Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 25th November 2025
Woodend’s new hero
By Tara Murray
Cooper Duff-Tytler is the toast of Woodend after being selected at pick four by West Coast in the AFL national draft on Wednesday night.
The anticipation was high at Gilbert Gordon Oval, the home of the Woodend-Hesket and Woodend Junior football clubs, as they waited for Duff-Tytler’s name to be called out.
Family members were among the big crowd at the oval, with plenty of children there to support their new hero.
Speeches were read by people who knew Duff-Tytler well and there was a little measure from the man himself for the next generation.
For a small community it’s a really big deal. For Cooper, it’s his achievement. For us it has been great that he has allowed us to be part of it
- Paul Podbury
The Calder Cannons star was expected to head to the Eagles early in the draft, but had to wait as the Eagles put bids in for Zeke Uwland and Harry Dean.
When those bids were matched, the Eagles quickly snapped up the 200 centimetre ruck-forward.
The news delighted a big crowd at Woodend.
Speakingbeforethedraft,hisauntKristy Lee said it was pretty special for the whole family.
“It’s very exciting for Coop and the whole family,” she said.
“Just because he has worked really hard and deserves all of this. We’re excited for him.
“We would have been happy for him to get drafted but with all the media that he was going as a top pick there was a lot less
pressure, because we know that he will go somewhere.”
Many of the family were at Marvel Stadium on Wednesday night while others were watching nearby before they joined the celebrations.
Lee headed in to join the rest of the
family to celebrate all together.
She said the family had really enjoyed sharing in the draft process.
“We had a big lunch today [Wednesday] at Docklands all together to see him before all the hype and meeting up again afterwards and celebrating with him.”
Lee said seeing so many children at the club was special.
Duff-Tytler had grown up at the club like many of them were doing now.
“The family has been around a lot,” he said. “He’s always giving kids in the community some time and hopefully really aspires a lot of them to know a small country club can still produce some of the best of the football.”
Duff-Tytlerjoinsararecluboffootballers from Woodend-Hesket to be headed to the AFL.
Whiletheclubisn’t100percentsurehow many have come before Duff-Tytler, there’s at least four others who have played for the club that have gone on to play AFL.
Woodend president Paul Podbury, like many others in the room on Wednesday night, was pretty proud.
“It’s very exciting, the greater Lee-Duff-Tytler family have been involved at the club for 50 years,” he said.
“The family is a massive part of the local community and Woodend-Hesket Football Club.
“For a small community it’s a really big deal. For Cooper, it’s his achievement.
“For us it has been great that he has allowed us to be part of it.”
Podbury said it had been nearly 20 years since they’d had a player drafted from the club.
He said to see a player come through all the ranks was pretty special.
“It’s fantastic,” he said. “He got to play with his older brother [Tobi] who has been a big part of the club last year.
“Everyone who came that day saw so much talent that Cooper has got. He was best on ground against Riddell in a game we lost by a kick.
“Sixteen-year-old against the best team in our comp. Very impressive on that day.” Podbury said the last 18 months since focusing on football, Duff-Tytler was done at the club most weeks with many seeing how far he had come.
For more on the draft, turn to sport.
Cooper Duff-Tytler’s family with a cut out of him.
Cooper Duff-Tytler’s family watches the draft. (Pictures: Tara Murray)
The crowd at Gilbert Gordon Oval.
Sunbury unites to say no
Sunbury’s got one big burning issue, and residents are uniting to try to stamp it out. Georgia Tacey caught up with the creator of the No Sunbury Waste Incinerator group, Alison Medforth, to hear more about how the proposed waste-toenergy facility proposed on Sunbury Road might affect the community.
Alison Medforth lives on the doorstep of Sunbury’s biggest burning issue.
The 33-year-old lives in Kingfield estate on Lancefield Road – a four-minute drive away from the proposed location of a waste-to-energy facility.
The controversial project has caused a stir in Sunbury the past few months, with waste management company HiQ proposing to build the waste-to-energy incinerator at its Sunbury Eco-Hub site, located at 570 Sunbury Road, Bulla.
While HiQ is yet to put in an application with the Environmental Protection Authority Victoria (EPA), it was granted a Waste-to-Energy Scheme cap licence by Recycling Victoria.
This licence will allow the company to accept up to 750,000 tonnes of waste per annum.
The proposed site is just metres from booming developments along Sunbury Road.
On Sunbury Road alone, multiple new estates have popped up, and a new town centre has been proposed.
Along nearby Lancefield Road, there are multiple new estates and homes popping up, and a shopping centre is currently on the way.
When Ms Medforth heard about the Sunbury proposal after seeing the protestors against the Lara proposal, she knew someone had to act – she just didn’t realise it was going to be her.
This hard-working town is being called on to do too much of Melbourne’s heavy and dirty lifting. It’s a Sunbury pile-on
- David Ettershank
“I was thinking someone else is going to pick this up and do something, but by aroundAprilnooneelsehad.That’swhenI created the Facebook group,” she said.
Ms Medforth is the creator of the No Sunbury Waste Incinerator group, a grassroots movement that has exploded across town and beyond.
Withalmost2000members,MsMedforth said it’s become a much bigger movement than she could ever have imagined.
“I’m overwhelmed by the support from the Sunbury community and that we can allcometogetherandsayoutloudthatthis is not what we want,” she said.
“It’s a great showing from everyone in Sunbury that we won’t stand for this and we won’t stand to continue to be treated like this.”
The movement, through its community meetings and advocacy have united the Sunbury community, and gained the attention of local politicians and councillors.
Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank has joined the group in campaigning against the project and called it a terrible idea.
“Sunbury was forced to take all the soil from the Westgate Tunnel and now the Allan government continues the pattern of ‘rubbishing’ Sunbury,” he said.
“This hard-working town is being called on to do too much of Melbourne’s heavy and dirty lifting. It’s a Sunbury pile-on.”
When HiQ was granted its cap licence of 750,000 tonnes, Mr Ettershank said he was shocked.
“They were looking at 450,000 tonnes of garbage to burn. Recycling Victoria gave them a licence for 750,000,” he said.
“At 450,000 tonnes, they were going to produce 220 tonnes of highly toxic ash a day.
“We asked (Hume) council how much red bin waste [the city produces] … and as I understand it, 14,000 tonnes a year. That leaves 726,000 tonnes unaccounted for.”
HiQ said in an April Q&A with the community that if approved, the proposed facility would divert waste collected from the Hume area it already receives and acceptadditionalmaterialfrombusinesses and councils in the surrounding areas, potentiallyextendingtoMelbourneandup to Bendigo.
Residentsarealsoconcernedthenumber of truck movements along Sunbury Road will increase, with the road not equipped to handle it.
HiQ said in the Q&A that with all of the anticipated activities at the site, truck movements could be up to 800 per day, but said the waste-to-energy facility is expected to generate approximately 100 extra truck movements per day.
Hume councillors Jarrod Bell and Kate Hamley, both representing Sunbury and Bulla, also expressed concern about the
truck movements, in a joint statement released in August.
In their statement, they stressed that the proposal was not a council decision, but relies with the state government.
Thestategovernmentispushingthrough on waste-to-energy across the state, which is worrying Sunbury residents.
A state government spokesperson said the views of the community will always be considered in proposals like this.
Currently, there are eight proposals acrossthestate,includingonesinSunbury, Wollert and Lara, and multiple licences granted.
Thestategovernmentwillnowinvestigate waste-to-energy infrastructure in Victoria, through a parliamentary inquiry that was moved in August.
Mr Ettershank remains concerned that the Sunbury facility will be approved well before the inquiry begins next year.
“HiQ’s application will go into the EPA in November, according to HiQ. Typically, as I understand it, they take about three months,” he said.
“If the EPA approves it, then that’ll go to the Department of Environment, Energy Climate Action (DEECA) and the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP), and they’re legendary for
fast-tracking development.
“There is every possibility that the Sunbury incinerator will be approved before the parliamentary inquiry even begins, let alone ends in its decision. That’s definitely something we wouldn’t want to see.”
Butforthetimebeing,Sunburyisplaying the waiting game.
HiQ said it plans to lodge its application withtheEPAbytheendof2025,withpublic exhibitionexpectedinthefirsthalfof2026. Application outcomes will be expected in mid to late 2026, according to HiQ.
Once approved, construction will take place between late 2026 and 2029, before operations are expected to commence in 2030, when the facility will run 24-7.
But Ms Medforth stressed that no matter what, Sunbury will continue to make its stance known.
“Wehavetokeepdoingwhatwe’redoing, which is raising community awareness and also making sure that our politicians and people in charge know that again we won’t stand for this. We are the people and we can vote them out,” she said.
“We have a strong voice, we are tired of being treated like a dumping ground, and we are going to make our voices heard and say no.”
Residents from Wollert, Sunbury, Lara and Lynbrook on Parliament steps with MPs David Ettershank, Tim Read, and Sarah Mansfield. (Jack O’Shea-Ayres)
Left: Western MP David Ettershank addressing the Sunbury community. Right: The No Sunbury Waste Incinerator group. (Pictures: Supplied)
MP calls out harassment
By Georgia Tacey
Northern Victoria MP Georgie Purcell has spoken about being sexually harassed while in parliament.
Speaking in state parliament in support of the Restricting Non-disclosure Agreements (Sexual Harassment at Work) Bill 2025 on Thursday 20 November, the Kyneton-based MP said there have been multiple instances when she was sexually harassed in her working life.
“When I moved on to working in a pub when I was 18 years old, I dreaded clearing the glasses during happy hour, knowing that I would be groped, pulled onto laps and receive demeaning and sexualised com-
ments,” she said.
“Once I was even followed out to my car by a customer who threatened me after I turned down his advances.
“In that workplace I was powerless because we could not upset the regulars in a small country town.”
Ms Purcell said in her first year as a staffer in parliament, she again was sexually harassed.
“I will never forget in those early months when someone came into my office for a discussion and I bent over to get something from the fridge and he remarked to me, in my member of Parliament’s office, ‘If you do that again, I won’t be responsible for what happens next’,” she said.
“It really has made me reflect, perhaps naively, ahead of this debate today that I thought I would be safe from this treatment when I became a member of parliament as well, but that just has not been the reality and that has not been the case.”
Ms Purcell said she faced scrutiny by colleagues after reporting the harassment.
“I reported sexual harassment in this building as a member of parliament … the immediate questions were: ‘What did she expect? Look how she dresses. Look at the tattoos. Look at her past. You can’t sexually harass the stripper.’ I heard the whispers … I know the slut shaming far too well,” Ms Purcell said.
“Members of this place are not beyond it,
Goonawarra Christmas carols and cheer
Goonawarra Primary School is bringing ChristmascheertoSunburythisDecember.
The school choir will be singing festive favourites and pop culture classics at the Sunbury Hume Global Learning Centre and Sunbury Square Shopping Centre.
Performing arts teacher and choir coordinator Kelli Brogan said the kids were excited to bring some cheer into the library and sing their favourite carols for the second time.
“They sang last year (at the library) and the staff were wrapped with them,
so they’re going back again this year,” she said.
“On the same day, they’re also singing at Sunbury Square, so they’re doing both on the same day. They’re also doing the carols at the end of the year.
“They’re pretty excited for the Christmas season.”
With about 35 kids in the choir, the group spend every day during recess practicing for the choir, and Ms Brogan said they are a very dedicated group of students.
“They don’t mind what they sing so long
as they get to sing,” she said.
“It’s good to see the confidence that it’s building for them as well.”
The Goonawarra Primary School choir will be performing at the Sunbury Hume Global Learning Centre on Friday 5 December from 12.30pm to 1pm. There are no bookings required.
The choir will also perform at Sunbury Square on the same day.
and we need to reflect on that today as well as we move forward and do this important piece of legislation. There is an ongoing commentary for many women in this building that implies things would be different for us if we conducted ourselves in a different way.”
The bill was introduced to address the misuse of non-disclosure agreements that have been used to silence victims of sexual harassment in the workplace, to allow victims to speak out without fear of retribution or legal consequences.
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual harassment, support is available. Call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) for confidential help.
Carols return to Anzac Park
Christmas spirit will fill the air in Craigieburn as one of Hume’s most anticipated festive events of the year returns to Anzac Park on Saturday 6 December.
Hume’s Carols by Candlelight promises a dazzling evening of music, community and Christmas joy as it invites Australian entertainment icon Rhonda Burchmore to the stage as headline for the event.
Burchmore brings more than four decades of stage experience and a glittering history of performing at some of the nation’s biggest carols events to Hume.
But it doesn’t end thereBurchmore will be joined by an impressive line-up of performers in AYDAN, DanceXclusive, Divine Divas Show Choir, Eamonn Conor, Emily Daye, Rance Lazarus and the Willmott Park Primary School Choir and Ukulele Group.
Under the musical direction of Garth Ploog and his nine-piece band, the event promises a night of sing-along classics and heartwarming community spirit.
The festivities don’t just stop there, residents can enjoy DIY Christmas crafting, library storytimes, gingerbread making, and letters to Santa, plus a local neighbourhood celebration at Westmeadows Reserve on Friday, December 12 from 6pm, hosted by local MC Steve Tabone.
Goonawarra Primary School choir is singing Christmas carols at the library in December. (Damjan Janevski). 517002_01
New national parks
Wombat-Lederderg is now a national park.
Legislation passed parliament on 18 November to create three new national parks and two conservation parks in Victoria’s central west.
Alongside Wombat-Lederderg, Mount Buangor and Pyrenees are now national parks, and Hepburn and Cobaw are new conservation parks. The Wellsford State Forest has been reclassified as a regional park.
Members of Wombat Forestcare have been campaigning for greater protection of Wombat Forest for 15 years, and park status is a recognition of the very high conservation and catchment values of the forest.
Over many years, Wombat Forestcare has worked alongside the Victorian NationalParksAssociation,haslobbiedthe stategovernmenttoprotecttheseforestsin parks.
“These forests exist in a landscape that hasbeenhighlyclearedofnativevegetation and represent incredibly important habitat forthepersistenceofverymanythreatened plants, animals and fungi,” Wombat Forestcare convenor Gayle Osborne said.
“Thisisamassivestepfortheprotection of the amazing and wonderful plants, animals and fungi that inhabit our forests.
“We congratulate the state government for legislating these parks. National parks are the cornerstone of biodiversity conservation in Australia, and the creation of these parks will ensure that these forests are safeguarded for future generations.”
The Wombat Forest is a ‘stronghold’ for the protection of many threatened nativespeciesincludingtheGreaterGlider, PowerfulOwl,Brush-tailedPhascogaleand
The park will also protect the Wombat Forest as a water catchment with the headwaters of seven major river systems contained in the forest, and the value the forest provides in terms of ecosystem services and carbon sequestration.
Ms Osborne said that the group was disappointed to hear that the state government, as part of its legislation, has
allowed recreational deer hunting in parts of the new Wombat-Lederderg National Park.
“The national parks are only part of the undertaking by the government for the central west,” Ms Osborne said.
“Thereareregionalparks,andbushland reserves still to be legislated, and we hope that these can be created before the end of the year.”
Reducing clothing waste
Kynetonresidentsareleadingtheway in Australia’s first clothing sorting trial.
Residents have joined the first dual-stream clothing trail, Sort for Good, a project funded by the Seamless Circular Clothing Textiles Fund.
Every household has received in November two labelled bags and instructions to separate unwanted clothing into two categories: wearableandunwearable.
SCRgroup is helping deliver the project in the Macedon Ranges, and spokesperson Kristi High welcomed theproject.
“This makes it easier for residents to help keep wearable clothing in circulation and ensures items that can’t be re-homed like underwear, socks, uniforms and items that are torn or damaged can go straight to a recyclingoptioninsteadofendingup inlandfill,”shesaid.
LocalsocialenterpriseWindarring helped deliver the bags to homes across Kyneton, and will collect them from household doorsteps or letterboxes before the end of the month.
Wearable collected clothing will be donated to local charities or redirected through SCRgroup’s global reuse network in developing countries. Unwearable clothing will be recycled into new fibres, rags, insulation or other useful products insteadofendingupinlandfills.
Sunbury Seniors Hub opened
Sunbury Seniors are celebrating the opening of their new home.
The Sunbury Seniors Hub officially opened in November, with the new building delivering a modern community facility designed to meet the changing needsofHume’sresidents,inaplacewhere they can meet, connect and thrive.
Sunbury Seniors president Louise Zambrello celebrated the opening of the hub and is excited for the group to move back in and expand their service offerings.
“We are very excited about the new hub. We’re going to be able to offer a lot more activities to seniors around Sunbury,” she said. “It’s got everything we need.”
The group will officially move into the
hub in January.
“It’s not just for Sunbury Seniors, our organisation,butit’sforallseniors,andthe many seniors’ groups that cater for seniors in Sunbury,” she said.
Mayor Carly Moore welcomed the opening for the Sunbury community.
“The Sunbury Seniors Hub represents a new chapter for our community. By transforming the former Senior Citizens Centre into a modern, multi-use facility, we’re ensuring that older residents have a space that truly meets their needs,” she said.
The $4.3 million project was delivered by Hume council, and funding from the state government.
the endemic Wombat Leafless Bossiaea.
Wombat Forestcare members campaigning for the national park. (Sandy Scheltema)
Sunbury Seniors Louise and Frank Zambrello and Gary Fawcus with his dog Kevin, out the front of the Sunbury Seniors Hub. (Damjan Janevski) 518155_03
Help out this festive season
The CareWorks Christmas Appeal is back for 2025.
The annual donations drive helps people in the local community who are struggling this festive season, with donations accepted in town.
The donations bin is back in Sunbury Square, where you can place some non-perishable food items in. CareWorks said it is looking for some festive foods including plum puddings, Christmas cakes,chocolates,mincepies,tinnedham and UHT custards.
CareWorks operations manager Kate Killicksaidthedriveisonlymadepossible by the community.
“We run it every year, and we rely pretty much exclusively on the community to help us put together the hampers,” she said.
“The success of it depends on how much we get from the community.”
Other than food donations, the community can also fill a reverse advent calendar, which involves people putting one item a day inside the box for 20 days, forsomeoneinneedtoopenforChristmas.
“We aim this year to fill 150 reverse advent calendar boxes,” Ms Killick said.
Anyone can pick up a reverse advent calendar at CareWorks during their opening hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays,andtheyneedtobecompleted and dropped off by 11 December, so they can be given out for Christmas.
CareWorks are also doing a toy drive, as wellasacceptinggiftsforwomenandmen for Christmas.
“We just appreciate any support we can get, whether it’s one item in the collection cage, or its a whole box they can fill for us, so anything’s gratefully received,” Ms Killick said.
Details: careworks.com.au
Briefs
Fire danger period reminder
Clarkefield CFA was called to a fire in the Riddells Creek area on Tuesday 18 November. Crews on the scene located three burn piles. Clarkefield CFA said while the fire did not spread, the piles were not permitted to be burning during the fire danger period. All piles were fully extinguished, and Clarkefield CFA said the property owner was unaware the fire danger period had begun and cooperated with firefighters on the scene. Gisborne, Riddells Creek and Bolinda-Monegeetta CFA were all in attendance. In the Macedon Ranges, the fire danger period began at 1am on Monday 17 November. Residents are reminded that no burning off is permitted during the fire danger period without a permit to burn.
Santa Paws
Woodend Neighbourhood House is hosting pet photos with Santa on Saturday 29 November and Sunday 30 November. Each booking includes a five-minute photo session with Santa, perfect for pets of all shapes and sizes. After your session, you’ll receive two digital photos to your preferred email to share with families and friends. All pets are invited for the festive experience, with funds going towards the Woodend Food Bank and the neighbourhood house. Book: trybooking.com/DGSFR
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Romsey’s festive fun
By Georgia Tacey
Romsey Neighbourhood House is bringing festive fun into the season.
The neighbourhood house is hosting a rangeofeventsleadinguptoChristmas,all with a festive flair.
The first event of the Christmas season will be the Elves Workshop, held on Saturday 29 November from 7pm outside the Co-Op Community Cafe.
The night will include lots of fun festive activities for kids, including Christmas card making and decorations.
At 9pm, the Romsey Lancefield Rotary Club’s Christmas Tree will be lit up for the first time of the season as well.
The big event for the season will be the Community Christmas Lunch, held at the Romsey Mechanics Hall from noon to 3pm on Friday 12 December.
Thefestivefeastwillfeaturearoastlunch with dessert, plus raffles, fun and more. BookingsareopennowfortheChristmas Tree Sale Fundraiser, with trees able to be collected from 1 December.
The house is also hosting a Gift Giving andToyDrive,andareacceptingdonations of new toys for all ages, books, teen gifts, hamper items and gift vouchers, like food and fuel vouchers. They ask all gifts to be unwrapped.
Student Darcey Bossen welcomed the Romsey community to join in on the Christmas spirit by donating some goods to the drive or joining in one of the fun events planned.
“It’sallaboutthecommunity,theirneeds and how we can support them during this timebecausesomanypeoplestrugglewith Christmas,” she said.
Ms Bossen said the gift drive is there to help those doing it rough.
“That’s for families who are struggling or in need, and who can’t provide gifts for their children,” she said.
“They’re able to call up the house and register with us for a time to come in either 6 December or the 7th … it’s strictly only parents or carers that can come into the house at those times to pick out gifts for
their kids.”
Ms Bossen said the support from the community is always amazing.
“I think the more the community comes together, the more we can make it a better Christmas for each other,” she said.
For more information, contact the house on 5429 6724 or email admin@romseynh. org.au
Details: romseynh.org.au
Date set for Metro Tunnel
The Metro Tunnel will open earlier thanexpected.
The date has been set for 30 November with the Summer Start program to also kick off, offering free public transport every weekend in VictoriauntilSunday1February.
“The Metro Tunnel will open early in November, starting a new era for our city and state, Premier Jacinta Allansaid.
Full accreditation has been granted by the National Rail Safety Regulator withthefinalcountdownnowonuntil theofficialopening.
High-capacity signalling has been rolled out across the Cranbourne, Pakenham and Sunbury lines, unlocking fast, frequent, turn-up-and-goservices.
In addition to existing services through the City Loop, services will run through the Metro Tunnel every 20 minutes from 10am to 3pm on weekdays, and from 10am to 7pm on weekends between Westall and West Footscray, with some weekend services extending to East Pakenham andSunbury.
From1February,theBigSwitchwill fully integrate the Metro Tunnel into thenetwork.
The Sunbury, Cranbourne and Pakenham lines will run exclusively through the Metro Tunnel, supported by a new timetable and more than 1,000extraweeklyservices.
CHRISTMAS CHEER
Festive feasts to celebrate Christmas around the world
Christmas is a time for family, celebration, and,perhapsmostimportantly,food.While the classic image might be a roast turkey with all the trimmings, move beyond the English-speakingworldandyou’lldiscover a dazzling array of traditional dishes, each telling a story of history, climate, and culturalidentity.
AEuropeanCulinaryTour
InGermany,theChristmasEvemeal,rather than Christmas Day, is often the most significant. But on the 25th, the table often features roast goose (Weihnachtsgans) or sometimes carp. The goose is a centuries-old tradition, often stuffed with apples, chestnuts, or prunes, symbolizing plenty.
For the French, the traditional celebratory meal, called Le Réveillon de Noël, is also eaten on Christmas Eve or in the early hours of Christmas morning after midnight mass. It’s an extravagant affair that can continue into Christmas Day. The centerpiece is often a magnificent Bûche deNoël(yulelogcake),andthemenuoften includes luxurious items like oysters, foie gras,andcapon(alarge,roastedrooster).
In Italy, the celebration often revolves around Christmas Eve with the Feast of the Seven Fishes (Festa dei Sette Pesci), especially in the south, where meat is avoided before the holiday. On Christmas Day, the meal is highly regional, but often includes different types of baked pasta
like Lasagna or Cappelletti in Brodo (small stuffed pasta in broth). The dessert table will likely feature Panettone, a sweet, dome-shaped bread with candied fruits, originallyfromMilan.
SpicyandSunnyTraditions
Across the pond in Mexico, Christmas Day is filled with vibrant flavours. While Christmas Eve is marked by the nochebuena dinner, Christmas Day often featuresleftoversandcelebratoryfavourites like romeritos (a dish made with sprigs of romerito herb, dried shrimp, and mole sauce),bacalao(dried,saltedcodfishstew), and of course, plenty of tamales—steamed corn dough wrapped in corn husks or bananaleavesandfilledwithmeat,cheese, orchilies.
In the Philippines, Christmas is the longest celebrated season, kicking off in September. The Christmas Day meal, or noche buena, showcases a rich blend of Spanish and native influences. Key dishes include lechón (whole roasted pig with crispyskin),hamón(sweetcuredham),and quesodebola(edamcheese).
The Southern Hemisphere’s Summer Feast For countries in the Southern Hemisphere, like Australia and South Africa, Christmas falls in the middle of summer. This means many families ditch the hot, heavy European traditions in favor oflighter,coolerfare.
In Australia, it’s common to find seafood—prawns, oysters, and crayfish— served alongside a traditional ham or turkey. The meal is often enjoyed outdoors with a barbecue or a cold buffet. The quintessential Christmas dessert is the pavlova (a meringue-based dessert topped withfreshcreamandsummerfruits).
In South Africa, the Christmas Day meal isalsooftenacoolerspread,althoughsome families will still enjoy a hot meal of turkey or roast beef. The dessert table, however, is ruledbyacold,refreshingtrifle,madewith spongecake,jelly,fruit,andcustard. The beauty of Christmas food lies in its diversity. Whether it’s a cold slice of ham in Australia or rich, simmering bacalao in Mexico, every dish serves the same purpose: to bring loved ones together aroundatableofabundance.
Romeritos is a dish made with sprigs of romerito herb, dried shrimp, and mole sauce that is popular in Mexico at Christmas.
Romsey Neighbourhood House, manager Michelle Balthazar, with volunteers/students Bree Gaul, Glen Racovelis, Darcey Bossen and Layla Abraham. (Damjan Janevski) 516666_01
Sports precinct progress
Stage two of the Macedon Ranges Sports Precinct has commenced with the awarding of two contracts to deliver additionalindoorandoutdoorfacilities.
The start of works was marked with a sod-turningceremonyattendedbyMcEwen MP Rob Mitchell, Macedon Ranges acting mayor Kate Kendall and other councillors tocelebratethemilestone.
Stage two will deliver significant upgrades, including three new multi-use indoor courts, four gender-neutral change rooms, additional car parking, a dedicated drop-off zone, and extra offices and amenitiesonthewesternsportshubsite.
On the eastern sports field site, a second natural turf oval will be constructed north oftheexistingovalandpavilion,alongwith two outdoor netball courts and additional carparking.
“Stage two will significantly increase capacity and flexibility at the precinct, providing modern, comprehensive facilities for sports and community events acrosstheshire,”CrKendallsaid.
“It’s exciting to now have shovels in the ground for this next stage of works, and we look forward to seeing the new facilities takeshapefromhere.”
Contractors have been appointed
for both sites, with ACE Infrastructure commencing works on the oval site and Harris HMC appointed for the new indoor stadium.
Council said this strategic contractor
A message to young men
By Sam Porter
A Sunshine youth advocate is helping young Victorian men challenge stereotypes and embrace healthier expressions of masculinity.
MawoutMuoisoneofthefacesofRespect Victoria’s‘WhatKindofManDoYouWant to Be? Campaign’, which highlights how harmful ideas of masculinity and men’s use of violence are connected.
AsachildgrowingupinSudan,Mawout grew up surrounded by strong female influences.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re raised by women or just by men. Masculinity is from within, being a good person, being kind,” he said.
Mawout said there’s no one way to describe what it means to be a man.
“I just say it’s an ongoing journey. Everyday is a new challenge. But work on building relationships, finding your own inner peace. That’s the real masculinity, it’s not your money. It’s not your achievements. It’s what’s within you.”
He said social media is negatively impactinghowyoungmenviewthemselves and that they should look for positive role models within their community
instead of online.
This year’s campaign theme for Respect Victoria’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is ‘UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls’.
Mawout said men need to stand up to violence against women and create a safe environmentforthem.
“A lot of men know that it’s not right but not a lot of men are speaking up about it,” he said. “There’s things that us men of the community need to advocate more for the women, just as much as the women advocateforus.”
Mawout said fathers should teach their sons to treat women and girls with respect andtoalsolovethemselves.
“It’stimetochangethenarrativeasbeing a man and that is by showing love. Love is more powerful than violence, than anger, thanallthesekindsofthings.It’slove.”
The 16 Days against Gender-Based Violence, which is a global campaign led by UN women, runs from 25 November-10 December.
Respect Victoria is holding its annual WalkAgainstFamilyViolenceaspartofthe campaignonFriday28November.
Details:shorturl.at/p7Tt5
split helps to share the substantial and specialisedworksrequiredforeachsite.
Stage two is budgeted at $17 million, funded by $15 million through the federal government’s Priority Community
Infrastructure Program and $2 million fromcouncil.
“From the community’s standpoint, this sodturnisamonumentalmilestoneforthe vision to build this regional precinct. With stageonedeliveredbycouncilandthestate government, it has already proven itself an overwhelmingsuccess,”MrMitchellsaid.
“I have been a long-time supporter of this project which has been driven by the community to meet our growing needs. That is why I have always shown my backing for stage two and was proud to deliver our commitment of $15 million to theprecinct.”
Once complete, the precinct will cater for AFL, cricket, basketball, netball, badminton, volleyball, futsal and other sports,whilealsoprovidinghireablespace forsocialandcorporateevents,supporting community connection, health and wellbeing.
Residents should be aware of staged construction, parking adjustments, and temporary traffic changes, with council and contractors working to minimise disruption.Communitygroups,clubs,and schools are encouraged to stay engaged as the new facilities are expected to open in late2026.
ACE Infrastructure Construction Manager, Pawel Bankowski; Cr Alison Joseph; Cr Janet Pearce; Deputy Mayor Kate Kendall; Federal Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell; Macedon Ranges Shire Council CEO, Bernie O’Sullivan and Cr Rob Guthrie.
Festive craft to bring Christmas cheer
Each month, Stephanie Martinez will shareanexcitingcraftprojectdesignedto inspireandsparkcreativity.
Stephanie starred in the first season of Making It on Network 10, where she discovered and ignited her passion for crafting.
Join Stephanie as she explores the endless possibilities of crafting and turn everyday materials into something extraordinary.
This month, Stephanie is creating mini Christmastrees.
Mini Christmas Tree
Materials
Green and white yarn
Styrofoam cone
Coloured felt
Equipment
Glue
Scissors
Needle
Step 1: Wrap the green yarn around the entire styrofoam cone, securing it with glue as you go until the cone is completely covered.
Step 2: Cut the coloured felt into strips, then trim them into small squares. Thread the white yarn through the needle, and string the felt squares onto it to create a festive garland.
Step 3: Attach one end of the garland to the base of the tree with glue. Wrap it gently around the cone, securing it in place as you go.
Step 4: Finish your tree by gluing the glitter foam star to the top.
Stephanie Martinez.
Scan the QR code and follow the links for more creative fun.
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
Malmsbury Town Hall Flea Markets
Guaranteed treasures and bargains to be found at the now famous Flea Market at the Malmsbury Town Hall, located next to the beautiful Malmsbury Botanic Gardens . You may wish to picnic there and bring a bag of peas to feed the geese (no bread, thanks!) Next market is Sunday 7 December, 9am to 2pm.
0409 749 386 or 0408 336 352
Malmsbury Town Hall Music Events
Bananagun and The Mods will be held on 29 November at 6.30pm for a 7pm start. Call Julie for details.
Julie, 0417 531 012
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
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
Young Voices of Macedon
A community choir for children of the Macedon Ranges and beyond, Young Voices of Macedon rehearses at the House of the Rock, 247 Station Road, New Gisborne. The choir has separate programs for young children aged five to eight and older children. Rehearsals assist children in developing vocal technique, part singing skills, and general musicianship, across popular, classical, folk and music theatre styles. Rehearsals run on Thursdays, from 4.15pm, with afternoon tea and play time.
yvmacedon.org.au
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
Hume Men’s Shed
The Hume Men’s Shed (Sunbury) is a non for profit organisation, meeting every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at 158 Evans Street, Sunbury. The group caters for men be it carpentry, welding, metal work, gardening or just to chat.
sunburymensshed.com, or 0438 677 425
Macedon Ranges Photographic Society
Are you into photography, just starting out, or a fully fledged professional? The Macedon Ranges Photographic Society is your local camera club for friendship, photographic outings, workshops, guest presenters, competitions and more. Come along to a meeting on the first and second Monday of the month. Doors open at 7pm and the meeting starts at 7.30pm at Jubilee Hall, 52 Smith Street, Macedon.
www.macedon-ranges-photography.org. au, or info@macedon-ranges-photography. org.au
Insync Entertainment
Insync Entertainment is an all-female community choir, providing the opportunity to meet others who enjoy singing. The group is seeking new members to join the friendly choir. No auditions required. They rehearse at the Sunbury Baptist Church Hall every Monday from 7.15–9.30pm.
insyncentertainment@gmail.com
Sunbury Seniors
Sunbury Seniors (55 or older) meet on Mondays and Fridays from 9.30am–2.30pm. They are temporarily relocating to 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.
A variety of activities are offered – indoor bowls, cards, snooker, guest speakers, day excursions, subsidised lunches or just a cup of coffee and a chat.
0434 400 754
Pernaperna Women’s Group
The group is currently knitting and crocheting blankets for First Nations peoples in palliative care across Australia. Pernaperna is a friendly group who meet fortnightly at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury, on a Thursday, from 1-3pm. It has established a bush tucker garden at Sunbury Neighbourhood House. New members welcomed. If you don’t knit or garden but would just like to drop in for a chat, the group would love to meet you.
Joan, 0418 302 676
Jacksons Creek Combined Probus
The club meets on the second Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 10am. This friendly group of men and women enjoy outings and meetings each month and twice yearly trips away staying in cabins and caravans. Visitors and new members are warmly welcomed
Doug, 5428 3317, or Teresa, 0417 373 006
Craft and conversation
Head down to the Sunbury Library on Mondays at noon for the craft and conversation group. The program is free and open to people aged 15 years and older.
https://bit.ly/39BIu2O
Chill Out Sunbury
Chill Out Sunbury is a free event for 12 and 18 years old to participate in activities such as trivia, games, and more. Happening every Wednesday, 3.30-5.30pm, at the Sunbury Youth Centre, 51-53 Evans Street.
https://bit.ly/3lmVgVhv
CWA Woodend Eves
The CWA Woodend Eves Branch is part of the Central Highlands group and meets every third Tuesday at 7pm at the Woodend Golf Club. All women are welcome.
cwawoodendeves@gmail.com
Badminton Club
The Sunbury Badminton Club plays social games on Tuesdays and Wednesdays nights, from 7.30-9.30pm, and on Wednesdays, 10am-noon. Monday night is a round robin competition from 7.30-9.30pm. All are welcome to attend at Clarke Oval Stadium, 49 Riddell Road.
sunburybc@gmail.com
Sunbury Ladies’ Badminton Club Are recruiting! Come along and enjoy the benefits of physical activity combined with social connectedness. Social and competition games are played every Thursday morning (excl. Public / School Holidays) from 9.30am to noon at the Eric Boardman Stadium, Wilsons Lane, Sunbury. All skill levels are welcomed. sunburylbc@gmail.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
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
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of dancers Mai Vu, Mai Nguyen, Ngoc Huynh, Thoa Tran, and Tina Nguyen with Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang (seated). (Damjan Janevski) 517610_01
Festive events by the bay
Christmas events are ramping up across Hobsons Bay as the festive season approaches.
For those with clothing in need of mending or some handyman advice, the ’Pop Up’ Repair Cafe at The Bridge Church in Williamstown is on Sunday 30 November.
If live music of the non-carols variety is what you’re after, Hudsons Road in SpotswoodistheplacetobewhenCaptain Chaos Quartet with Megan Slattery and
Aneta Graham play smooth jazz, lively rhythms and festive favourites from 10am-1pm on Saturday 6, 13 and 20 December.
If Christmas carols are what you’re looking for, Carols on the Green will take place from 6.30pm-8.30pm on Saturday 6 December at Paine Reserve, Newport.
The next day carols come to Altona at Logan Park from 6pm-8pm, The following weekend, Carols by Candelight is on from 6.30pm-10.30pm on
On the Sunday, Carols by Candlelight is on from 7pm-10pm at Commonwealth Reserve, Williamstown.
But if it’s the big guy you want to see, don’t worry, Santa is everywhere next month.
On 6 December he’ll be at the Williamstown family Christmas picnic in the park at Commonwealth Reserve, while also stopping by Altona and Newport on
Discover the varied Faces of Wyndham
A portrait alone could never tell a person’s entirestory.
Concept artist and photographer David Mullins’ Faces of Wyndham project has proved it can be a powerful way to start tellingit.
Since starting the completely self-funded venture in 2019, Mullins has taken the portraits of 100 Wyndham residents, many of whom decided to wear the traditional clothingoftheirbirthorancestralcountries.
After making a 3D model of the Point Cook Pop Up Park for Cr Susan McIntyre and CoLocal founder Sara Mitchell in their
bid to make the case for the space, learning ofthesuburbs’160culturesplantedtheidea inhismind.
“Being shy I thought this would never happenandIputtheideatoSaraoverlunch and she said just do it you’ll learn along the way,” Mullins said. “It was a very slow process in the beginning – it took months forthefirstpersontosayyes.“
Having lived in the general area since 1993, he has seen Point Cook develop from paddocks to one of Australia’s biggest suburbsandapatchworkofpeople.
“We accuse migrants of not assimilating, but I didn’t get to know all these different cultureswithoutputtingmyselfoutthere.
“I have learned so much and am a better personforit,Ibelieve.“
The exhibition will run across the Tarneit Community Learning Centre, Saltwater Community Centre and Dianella CommunityCentrefrom27Novemberto22 January.
The opening night is on Saturday 29 November.
Vietnamese migrants tell their stories of settlement
An original documentary and musical performance showcasing stories of Vietnamese settlement in Australia over the past 50 years will be presented as part of a free event in Brimbank.
Australian Vietnamese Arts and Culture (AVAC) created the documentary, titled ‘Our Brimbank - A Half-Century Home’, which showcases local Vietnamese residents’ personal stories of migration, and was filmed in St Albans.
AVAC president Mai Nguyen said audiences can see and hear exactly what Vietnamese locals experienced in their lives.
“...from running away from their own country, to being in the middle of life and death at the ocean via the little boats,” Ms Nguyen said. “How lucky they were compared with thousands and thousands of people who never reached the land and
diedatsea. Fromexperiencinghardtimes, working hard to achieve what they have now, what they have contributed to the community and finally the appreciation to Australia and Australians.”
the same day. He’ll also be in Newport on Saturday 13 December and on 20 December he’ll be in Spotswood for pics and face painting. The Dancing Christmas Trees will be boogying at the Newport Shopping Precinct on 20 December and Spotswood Primary School hosts a slow food extravaganza on 23 December.
For more information: https://www. hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/visit/Blog/ Christmas-in-Hobsons-Bay
Fisher brings the festive cheer
Caroline Springs families are set for a burst of free festive cheer when award-winning children’s entertainer Bethany Fisher brings her Christmas Spectacular Show to town on Thursday 4 December.
Running between 10.30 to 11.15am, the high-energy show promises a morning packed with music, movement and plenty of Christmas magic.
Fisher is the winner of “Best kids Live Show” and will be joined by hertroupeofdancersforacolourful performance designed for the young and the young at heart.
Audience participation is a big part of the fun, with kids invited to learn dance moves throughout the show and even join Fisher onstage, with a handful of lucky audience members taking home some very special prizes.
In true christmas spirit, each child will walk away with a gift in a free signed poster in honour of the festive day.
Fishersaidshe’sthrilledtoreturn toMeltonfortheImaginationMagic program during her favourite time of the year.
“I absolutely love performing in Melton… The kids are always so excited to sing and dance along,” she said. “We get the kids (and the grown-upstoo)involvedinlearning dance moves and joining us on stage. It’s going to be so much fun.”
Catch Bethany and her crew at Caroline Springs Leisure Centre on Thursday 4 December.
For information: https://www. melton.vic.gov.au/Out-n-About/ Events-Activities/Bethany-Fishe r%E2%80%9 9s-Christmas-Spectacular-ShowCaroline-Springs.
The musical performance, ‘My Story, Our Story’, also presented by AVAC, tells the story of the Vietnamese community’s journey over the past 50 years through performing arts.
“AVAC is very happy and proud to have this documentary and the musical performance presented to the community to achieve our purpose of preserving the history, sharing the amazing resilience of the people, acknowledging people’s contributions, and celebrating Australia, thecountrythatopeneditsarmstohaveus to give us what we have today,” Ms Nguyen said.
The free documentary and performance will take place on Saturday 29 November, from 2-5pm and 6-9pm at the Bowery Theatre, 33 Princess Street, St Albans. Bookings and more info: shorturl.at/ HOu19
Bethany Fisher brings festive joy to Caroline Springs on Thursday 4 December. (Supplied)
Performers rehearsing for Australian Vietnamese Arts and Culture’s ’My Story, Our Story’, showcase. (Supplied)
David Mullins in front of some of the portraits he has taken. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 518157_01
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
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which former AFL coach recently stepped down as CEO of Dick Johnson Racing?
2. Who is the new captain of the Sydney Sixers women’s team?
3. The AFL stadium project Mac Point is planned for which Australian state capital?
4. Which top jockey has been charged with two serious rule breaches after his Champions Mile win?
5. In what year did the Wallabies last lose four straight Tests in Europe?
6. Nico Harrison recently lost his job as the GM of which US sports
And what is the main reason he was fired?
Who will captain Western Australia in AFL State of Origin
What is special about a knuckleball pitch?
The Wallabies recently lost to what nation for the second time in history?
Which club had both the first and second overall picks in the 2025 AFL draft?
At what weight division did Australian Jack Della Maddalena lose to Islam Makhachev at UFC 322?
13. Originally signed to Nike, Steph Curry began a partnership with which sportswear brand in 2013?
14. Which Australian city is hosting the 2025 Beach Volleyball World Championships?
15. Gemma Houghton was the first player to kick how many AFLW career goals?
16. The 2025 NFL game between the Washington Commanders and Miami Dolphins was held in which Spanish city?
17. Rockhampton-born bowler Brendan Doggett has represented which state in first-class cricket since 2021?
18. New teams Seattle Torrent and Vancouver Goldeneyes will play what sport in the upcoming PWHL season?
19. Adelaide 36ers basketballer Isaac Humphries played for which US college team?
20.Canberra-born Mack Hansen plays for which country’s national rugby league team?
21. Apple is a slang term for an assist in which sport?
22.Which two birds are the nicknames for Baltimore’s MLB and NFL teams respectively?
23.In which year was the last AFL ‘State of Origin’ game played?
24.On a dartboard, which number is directly opposite the 9?
25.Which WBBL team does Sophie Devine play for?
26.Mary Fowler plays for which WSL team?
27. The Townsville Crocodiles played in which league between 1993 and 2016?
28.The Power Within is the name of which recently retired AFL player’s biography?
29. Jessica Campbell is the first female coach of which sporting league?
30.How many points is the pink ball worth in snooker?
Mary Fowler Fowler
more than once in any row, column or box.
1 Australian tree which bears yellow flowers (6) 4 Not representative of a type or group (8) 9 Notions (5) 10 Doom (9)
16 Oppose (6) 18 Omission represented by three periods (8)
23 Opinion (9)
24 Writing material (5)
26 Result of a taipan attack; cocktail (9) 27 Sugary (5)
28 Observation (8)
29 Against (6)
Modern Iranian language
Skinny wind instruments (9)
of light (7)
Amends (7)
17 Wise (7)
19 Liquid measure (5)
20 Way that has no outlet (7)
21 Impish persons (7)
22 Hanger-on (6)
25 Newspapers (5)
1 Riyadh is the capital of which country?
2 Which British journalist was part of a series of conversations known as the Nixon Interviews?
3 Which letter of N’SYNC’s name was represented by Justin Timberlake?
4 The Battle of Iwo Jima took place during which war? 5 Mount St. Helens is in which US state? 6 What is John Legend’s (pictured) original surname? 7 Who played Nyles in the 2020 movie PalmSprings? 8 The Liberation of Paris occurred in which year?
9 Roberto Benigni starred as Guido Orefice in which film?
10 In which country would you find the Malagasy people?
No.
Insight into hybrid Honda
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
It’s not surprising that one of the world’s largestenginebuilders,in1999,wasamong the first to bring electric power to the productionautomobile.
What is surprising is that the company, Honda, persisted with its poor selling petrol/electric powered Insight, whereas rival Toyota’s hybrid Prius went on to capture the world’s imagination and massivesales.
TheInsightlimpedontoathirdgeneration in2018.Basedonthe10th-generationCivic sedan the new Insight used Honda’s third generation two-motor hybrid powertrain, featuring a 1.5-litre Atkinson Cycle petrol engine, combined with an electric motor andalithium-ionbatterypack.
Honda announced the Insight would be discontinued after the 2022 model year, with production ending in June and replaced by a new Civic Hybrid. Following HR-V and Accord, the new Civic e:HEV LX is a self-charging, full hybrid hatchback that sets the 11th-generation Civic apart withexhilarating,electrifiedpower.
The new Civic e:HEV LX also marks the introduction of Honda Connect, a mobile application and server that allows customers to access vehicle information and interact with their vehicle via a Telematics Control Unit. This includes climate control, lights on/off to help locate the car in a crowd or at night, plus remote lockandunlock.
Five years of Honda Connect services is included with the Civic e:HEV LX, joining thefive-yearunlimitedkilometrewarranty, five-yearpremiumroadsideassistanceand five low-priced services that come with everynewHondavehicle.
The most premium, sophisticated and high-techCivicyet,thenewCivice:HEVLX comeswithadriveawaypriceof$55,900.
Styling & interior
There was no denying the original Insight was ahead of its time not only in electrification but in design features which made it stand out on a crowded street. Direct descendant, the e:HEV LX hatch continuestheCivictraditionofinnovation, design leadership and outstanding driving dynamics.
Hondasays:ThenewCivicmarkedastep change for the company in the small-car segment, with the latest generation elevating key aspirational elements of the Honda brand such as craftsmanship, premiumqualityandintuitivedesign.
Unintentionally,itmeantastepdownfor some, with the low-slung swoopy stance making for a far-from easy entrance and exittothehatchback.
It boasts a clean, modern design paired with a high-tech, human-centred interior andequippedwiththelatesttechnology,as well as advanced active and passive safety systems.
Infotainment
A virtual dashboard can check fuel range directly with a location finder giving immediateaccesstovehiclelocation.Atrip log supplies a recent trip history - access to driving history, trip distance, travel time andgeofencealert.
Engines/transmissions
The newly developed e:HEV powertrain combines a power-dense lithium-ion batteryandtwocompact,powerfulelectric motorswitha2.0-litreAtkinson-cyclepetrol engine,whichachievesexceptionalthermal efficiency and features a direct-injection
system optimised for faster and more efficient combustion, and greatertorque.
In addition, a number of technologies such as low temperature active catalyst and a modified intake port design contribute to improved fuel efficiency while achieving specificoutput.
The result is a combined maximummotoroutputof135kW of power and 315Nm of torque, the highest outputs offered on a Civic with the exception of Type R, ensuring the Civic e:HEV LX delivers a compelling driving experience.
Safety
The new Civic e:HEV LX features Honda’s latestgenerationSensingsuiteofadvanced driver-assistandsafetytechnologies,which employs a new 100-degree front wide-view camera and enhanced recognition of road lines, boundaries, pedestrians and other vehicles, including motorcycles and cyclists.
Additional features include Traffic Sign Recognition by automatically recognising and displaying the signs via the 10.2-inch LCD display. An Intelligent Speed Limiter recognises traffic speed signs and sets
thespeedlimit.
With automatic collision detection, in the event of airbag deployment, a notification will be sent to the device logged in to Honda Connect. The app will also alert a Honda Connect Customer Care agent and if a voice call is notanswered,emergencyservices can be dispatched to the accident location.
A total of 11 airbags are fitted to the Civic e:HEV LX as standard equipment, including knee airbags for the driver and front passenger (introduced on Civic VTi LX), along with new side airbags for the rear seats and a new front centre airbag to help prevent a collision between thedriverandfrontpassengerduringaside impact.
Driving
The new Civic e:HEV LX has been engineered to ensure that its e:HEV powertrain, steering and suspension deliverlevelsofperformance,responseand feedback that, over the years, have been centraltotheCivic’sappeal. The result is a vehicle that blends a rewarding driving experience with high levels of real-world efficiency and refinement.
This advanced powertrain is capable of shifting seamlessly between Electric drive, Hybrid drive and Engine drive to ensure optimum performance in both urban and highwaydriving.
Four drive modes – Eco, Normal, Sport and a new Individual mode, which allows separatecontroloftheengine,transmission and cluster gauge display – can be selected bythedrivertotailorvehicleresponse.
Central to the e:HEV system is the fixed-gear transmission (eCVT), which has been designed to minimise mechanical friction and is controlled by an intelligent power control unit that optimises the vehicletoeachdrivingsituation.
Careful attention has also been paid to the drivetrain and noise management to create a tranquil, calming cabin environment, whilst enhancing the overall vehicle driveability, resulting in a smooth, linearfeelduringacceleration.Thisrefined powertrain is paired with reassuring handling and straight-line stability –cornerstonesoftheCivicmodelthroughout itshistory.
Summary
The Honda Civic continues at the forefront of technology and design of the small hatchback on the company’s way to full electrificationofthebrand.
The Honda Civic continues at the forefront of technology and design. (Pictures: Supplied)
The sun was out and the weather was perfect to spend the day watching or playing sport. Star Weekly’s LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting some of the action.
Action around the grounds
Sunshine Eagles’ Jaimie Young. 518161_27
Altona’s James Grubb. 518143_03
Gellibrand’s Alexander Selby. 518149_01
Roxburgh Parks’s Habib Haadi and Sohaib Bhutta. 518156_04
Newport Rams’ Kyle Morrison. 518161_01
Williamstown CYMS’ Miles Bradshaw. 518149_07
Craigieburn’s Darren Wotu. 518147_01
Altona North’s Nicholas Rainone. 518147_09
Williamstown players looking relaxed.
Sweid is headed to Fremantle as last pick of the night
New Fremantle forward Adam Sweid is ready to get to work after being taken with the last pick on night one of the AFL national draft on Wednesday night. Sweid, who was surrounded by friends and family, had a few nervous moments before finding out he would call the Dockers home.
As an Essendon Next Generation Academy product, Essendon had the right to match the Dockers bid at pick 25.
Speaking the following morning, the Calder Cannons star said it was a crazy feeling to have been drafted.
“I don’t think it’s hit me yet,” he said. “When I get some time to myself [I think it might], I haven’t had any time yet.
“It’s exciting and I just can’t wait to get to Perth.”
Having spoken to Fremantle in the lead up to the draft, Sweid knew there was a chance that the Dockers might have bid on him.
It was only when his name was called out that it became a reality.
While Essendon had nominated him, he didn’t know whether they would match the bid or not.
“I wasn’t worried about that,” he said. “I just wanted to play AFL and Freo has given me the chance to live out my dream.
“I’m going to give them 100 per cent.”
As soon as Sweid’s name was called out had was swamped by friends and family who had come to watch it with him.
“It was so good, family and close people
around me to be there one of my best days of my life, I’m so happy,” he said.
Among those supporting Sweid was former Calder Cannon and now-Essendon forward Isaac Kako.
This time last year it was Kako in the same situation.
“I’ve done my running with him over the last few months to get in shape and be ready,” he said. “He’s been so good to me
“It’s unreal, he was here 12 months ago. I put in the hard work and stayed consistent and my work has paid off.”
Sweid said the Cannons had done so much for him over the past few years and had allowed him to play his brand of football.
He played his junior football with Hadfield, Glenroy and Pascoe Vale,
AFL dream beckons
By Tara Murray
TherealisationthatheisnowanAFLplayer was still sinking in for Calder Cannons’ Cooper Duff-Tytler.
While having represented Australia on the national stage in basketball, it was his footballing dream that came true on Wednesday night.
After weeks of speculation, Duff-Tytler is headed to West Coast after being taken at pick four on the first night of the draft.
Speaking the next morning, it was still a dream for the Woodend teenager.
“It’s hard to settle in,” he said.
“The more you wear the colours it feels a bit more real, still not real pretty unbelievable at this stage.
“Once I get over there and start to meet everyone and get amongst training and stuff it will start to feel a little more real.”
Duff-Tytler said there wasn’t much sleep following the draft.
His family and friends celebrated with him along with number one pick Willem Duursma,whoisalsoheadedtotheEagles.
Both has been predicted to end up at West Coast.
“We went out a little bit after that bit of a late night but you only get drafted once,” he said.
While Duff-Tytler had plenty of family and friends around him, there were a couple of people who were there in spirit on the draft night.
On his table at the draft was a photo of his grandparents, Brian and Dianne Lee.
“Nan and grandad on my mum’s side passed away a few years ago,” Duff-Tytler revealed about the special photo.
“They can’t be here and they always supported me a lot when I was younger and theywouldhavebeenthefirstpeopleinthe room with me for sure.
“[I wanted to] bring them along and have them there to be a part of it.”
Brian Lee is one of the legends of the Woodend-Hesket club having played a huge role in the two club’s merging.
The club and Romsey play for the Brian Lee Cup each year.
Duff-Tytler might soon find his name up there in the rafters at Gilbert Gordon Oval as well alongside his grandfather.
TheWoodendclubroomswerepackedon Wednesday night as the local community
all in the Essendon District Football League.
Sweid said he’d spend the next couple of days catching up with as much family before heading to Perth on the weekend.
While Sweid’s draft dreams have been realised, he was a keen watcher on night two of the draft to see if Cannons and Pascoe Vale teammate Hussien el Achkar got picked up.
He is also an Essendon Next Generation Academy member, with the Bombers picking him.
“I’ll be at Huss’s house. Hopefully he goes, it would be amazing,” Sweid said before the draft.
“He’s my best mate.”
followed Duff-Tytler’s journey.
“He helped Wooded and Hesket merge together as clubs and he’s done everything at Woodend footy club you can do,”
Duff-Tytler said of his grandfather.
“It’s a pretty good name around there.
“I’ve seen the videos and the club rooms were packed. They were jumping around when I got drafted.
“Sohumblingtoseeandthesupportfrom my local club means everything to me. To see the amount of people rally around me to see out my dream was pretty special.”
Eagles list management and recruiting head Matt Clarke said Duff-Tytler showed plenty heading into the draft.
“He was outstanding at the draft combine, running just over six minutes for the two-kilometre time trial at 201 centimetres, which is incredible.
“He also clocked sub-three seconds for the 20 metre sprint, that’s a rare combination of size and athleticism.
“What really stands out for us is his follow-up work at ground level. He’s super clean, creative with his hands, and kicks the ball really well. He fits the modern prototype for a tall.”
Tara Murray
Coaching change at Bombers
Riddell will have a new netball coach with the club announcing two-time grand final coach Emily Ktona won’t be returning for next year’s Riddell District Netball League season. Ktona guided the Bombers to the grand final in each of her two seasons in charge, before falling short to Woodend-Hesket both years.
The Bombers B-grade side won back-to-backgrandfinalsinthattime while they’ve had other sides go deep into finals.
The Bombers on social media thanked and wished Ktona luck.
Riddell had previously advertised for a new A-grade coach.
“We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our head coach for her incredible commitment, leadership and passion throughout her time with us,” the club sai
“Her dedication to our players and our club has been unwavering and the standards set both on an off the court will continue to shape our program for years to come.
“Her success in leading the team through finals campaigns and growth she nurtured within the playing group are achievements we are proud of.
“We are grateful for everything she has poured into the role and we will dearly miss her.
“We wish her nothing but the very best in her next chapter.”
TheBombershaveannouncedtheir other netball coaches.
B-grade premiership coaches Chris O’Sullivan and Jo Poyser will continued on coaching that side, while also taking charge of the C-grade side.
Meikah Johns will coach the under-19 side with former A-grade coach Eliza Allen coming on board as an assistant coach.
Emily Ktona. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 502756_57
Cooper Duff-Tytler. (AFL Photos)
Laing named the new Macedon women’s coach
New Macedon coach Matt Laing is keen to give something back and help the Cats further develop in the Riddell District Football League women’s competition.
Laing steps up to coach the Cats as they come off their second premiership in as many years.
He replaces Chris Nolan, who has had to step down due other commitments, and Bevan Uren, who is the Cats football operations manager.
Laing said he was excited by the opportunity.
“I’ve been around women’s footy and juniors with my daughter,” he said. “When shewenttoMacedonIwaswatchingonthe sidelines.
“I was the runner this year and when the position came up a couple of girls said I should go for it.
Macedon has a new coach. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 493539_66
“I thought I wanted to give something back and develop them even further.”
Laing takes over a side that hasn’t lost a game in the past two seasons.
He said the performances for the last couple of seasons are a reward for the players and supporters.
Laing said there’s still more to come.
“I don’t believe anything is perfect,” he said. “We can still learn and focus on the game plan and go to another level.
“There’s a keenness from the group and everyone is headed in the same direction. I’m keen to do the job at hand and building the culture and things like that.
Cats premiership skipper Brianna Woodburn has been named the Cats assistant coach.
Laing said Woodburn was wise beyond her years.
“She’s a genuine leader,” he said. “She’ll be a good link to the playing group.”
Laing said one area that he’s keen to focus on is bringing through some more younger players into the side.
“It’s really important in the development of the Macedon Cats that juniors are filtering into the senior side,” he said.
Dragons win, just
By Tara Murray
Gisborne held its nerve to sneak home against Wallan in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup on Saturday.
The match came down to the final ball of theinnings,withtheMagpiesneedingthree runs for the win.
TheDragonswereabletomusterarunout to get the win by one run.
Dragons captain-coach Jarryd Vernon said it was a really good game of cricket.
“It was one run in the end,” he said.
“Leighroy [Brennan] is experienced and has been in that position a few times before.
“He was able to hold his nerve, bowling full and attacked the stumps.
“Thefieldersweredeepandprotectingthe boundaries.”
The Dragons batted on day one of the match and made 9-249.
The Magpies started the day at 0-22 and took the game deep.
Vernon said the Magpies needed seven or eight off the final over to get the win.
“They needed two for a tie or three for a win off the last ball,” he said.
“We got a run out as they were going for the second.”
The Magpies finished 8-248.
Riley Vernon was the pick of the bowlers with four wickets.
The skipper said a match like this when they were really tested was a good thing early in the season.
“We’re going along OK,” he said. “We’re going at 75-80 per cent as a team.
“To get challenged like that was good for us and hopefully holds us in good stead.
“There’splentyofworkfromourgroupstill to come.”
Vernon said they needed to work with both the bat and ball.
Hesaidtheyshowedsomegoodsignswith the bat in the first week of the match against the Magpies.
“Our batters were in trouble at 6-120 odd and it shows the depth and maturity of the group.
“TomMousley,whois17,andinhissecond McIntyre Cup game, came out and played a role for us.
“Not every game is the top order going to get it done, it shows the depth we have.”
After six rounds, the Dragons sit second on the ladder, with four wins and two no results.
Vernonsaidknowingtheystillhaveplenty ofimprovementtocometheycan’tcomplain with the season so far.
“WehavetwogamesbeforetheChristmas breakandgettingwinsinbothgameswillbe the plan,” he said.
“We’vegotWoodendthisweekandthey’re a good side. They’ll be looking to bounce back and we will have to go up another gear to get the win.”
In other matches, Rupertswood narrowly avoided an outright loss to Romsey.
The Redbacks resumed at 6-83 with an 18 run first innings lead.
“We’re confident we’ve got the right people in the program and the youth feel confident to continue into seniors.
“We are a slightly older group.”
Laing said they expected most of the playing group to return next season, while there could be a couple of players coming back to the club.
Among the re-signings announced include Ruby Watts, Taya Konias, Nina Harbinson and Bride Kinghorn. He said with the integration of more juniors into the side, they were in a good spot.
Laing said he’s biggest focus was about development as a whole team.
“I’m really excited and happy to help be part of the girls team,” he said.
“They’ve been successful and we want to stay successful and to get even better.”
Tara Murray
GDCA women step up
Five Gisborne and District Cricket Associationwomen’splayersstepped up to play for the Central Highlands in the Victorian Country Cricket League women’s championship on Saturday.
It was the second year of the competition with every team playing two T20 matches with an overall winner decided at the end of the day.
Gisborne’sBriannaWoodburnand Ruby Watts, Bacchus Marsh’s Kim Bessell, Lancefield’s Nat Jeffery and Broadford’s Brooke Jeffery were part of the Central Highlands team.
The Highlanders started the weekend against the Mallee Murray women.
Mallee Murray won the toss and sent in the Highlanders, who made 6-173 from their overs.
Bessell finished with 52 before retiring not out, while Watts made a handy 16 not out at the end of the innings.
TheMalleeMurraywere1-50before the wickets halted its momentum. While it was able to fight before it finished 7-148.
Watts finished with 3-28.
In game two, the Highlanders faced the South East Sharks.
The Highlanders batted first and were bowled out for 101. Woodburn, who game in at number nine, finished with 19, the second highest score.
The Sharks never got going and were restricted to 7-87.
Woodburn and Nat Jeffery took a wicket each for the Highlanders.
The Central Highlands team finished as one of three undefeated rounds after the weekend. It finished third on quotient with the Northern Rivers side taking out the title.
They were bowled out for 122 and quickly sent Rupo back in.
Rupo finished with 180 in its second innings,leavingRomseyneeding124forfull points.
It finished 4-108.
Macedon beat Woodend, while Sunbury United was too strong for Broadford.
The GDCA reps from the VCCL women’s competition. (Supplied)
Riley Vernon. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 435786_11
Record holder Wilson named new Sunbury Lions coach
The Sunbury Lions games record holder Jaimee-Lee Wilson will take on the coaching reins for next year’s Essendon District Football League women’s season.
Wilson, who became the first female player to play 250 games for the Lions this year, has been appointed coach for 2026.
Shesaidshewasexcitedandgratefulfor the opportunity.
“Stepping into the coaching role feels like a natural progression, and I’m proud to be able to lead this group,” she said.
“The club has been a huge part of my life, so being trusted to guide the women’s program means a lot.”
Wilson was previously co-coach of the Lions side while she has coached junior girls sides at the club for a number of years.
She said this was a new challenge and
one that she is ready for.
“Co-coaching taught me a lot about communication, structure and balancing different perspectives,” she said.
“Now, coaching on my own gives me a chance to put my own vision in place and really shape the way we want to play.
“I’m confident in what I’ve learnt and excitedtotakeownershipoftheprogram.”
Having been involved with the junior girls sides, Wilson’s focus in coaching is development.
It’s something she’s keen to bring to the senior role.
“Development is at the heart of everything I want to do this season,” she said.
“We have a strong group of young playerssteppingup,andIwanttobuildan environment where they feel supported, challenged, and excited to grow.
“Helping players build confidence
and improve their skills is something I genuinely love — it’s a big reason why I coach.”
Wilson said her main focus this season would be coaching but would pull on the boots if the team needs her during the season.
She said the side’s biggest focus for next year would be connection and effort.
“We want to create a strong culture where everyone feels like they belong and contribute to the team identity,” she said.
“On-field, we’re focusing on fundamentals such as clean skills, pressure, communication, and playing for each other.
“If we get those right, the results will follow. It’s about laying a solid foundation for the future.”
Wilson said they were always looking for new players and support staff to join the team.
Sunbury rolling well
By Tara Murray
Club Sunbury continued its good form with another strong performance in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant, division 1, section 1 competition on Saturday.
Sunbury was on the road against Deer Park 2 and was up to the challenge as it came away with an 86 (16)-73 (2) win.
Sunbury’s David Glennon said they were pretty happy with that result.
“It was a good win against one of the stronger sides that are up there,” he said.
“There’s now a bit of a buffer between us and them.”
Mark Armstrong’s rink was the standout on the day winning 27-13, while Lee Wesley’s rink won 26-15.
Marc Bullows’ rink snuck home 21-20, while Desmond Cann Jnr’s rink was the only one to go down, losing 25-12.
“To get 16 points at Deer Park is very good,”Glennonsaid.“Notmanyteamswill
get that many points playing at Deer Park.
“It’s a hard place to go and get the win.”
Glennon said Armstrong was one of the standouts for the side, while Lauchlin Davies had a good day in Bullows’ rink.
With a few players missing, including Sophie Kurzman who is representing Victoria, there were a few different faces out there for Sunbury.
Glennon said despite that they still had a fairly stable side.
“We had two or three different changes,” he said. “That happens and we were still able to get the win in what I thought would be a really tough game.”
Sunbury remains in second place and is 14 points behind runaway leaders Whittlesea,whichareundefeatedafterfive rounds.
Sunbury’ssecondsideindivision2came away with a draw against Keilor to move into the top four.
Theclub’stwodivisionsidesalsogotwins on weekend and are on top of the ladder.
“It’s been a really good season for the club so far,” Glennon said.
She said they had different options to get as many people on board as possible both on and off field.
“Whether you’re returning to footy, trying it for the first time, or looking for a new club, you’re more than welcome,” she said.
“Wealsoofferpart-timeplayingoptions, so there’s flexibility for women who can’t commit every week.
“We’ve already re-signed a number of our players, and we expect plenty more signings in the lead-up to Christmas.
“We’re building something really positive at the Sunbury Lions, and we’d love to have more people come down, get involved, and be part of the journey.”
Anyone interested in playing can contact, https://www.facebook.com/ SLWFC
Tara Murray
VTCA
Sunbury opened its account in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 competition with victory against Footscray United on Tuesday night. The Bulldogs were bowled out for just 69, with no batter reaching double figures. Jack McGann took four wickets for the Roar while Jason McGann took three wickets. The Roar made the runs with ease, finishing 2-73.
Ballarat FL
Aaron Melis will join the Sunbury Lions for next year’s Ballarat Football League season. Melis joins the Lions from Kangaroo Flat where he has played senior football for the past three seasons, having come through the club’s junior ranks. “ Aaron is a classy left footer, who has the ability to play multiple positions across the ground, having spent this past season as a rebounding half back,” the Lions said. “Aaron is looking to challenge himself at a higher level and we are delighted he has chosen us to take that next step.”
RDFL
The top side will this Saturday face Yarraville Footscray 2. The Bulldogs sit in fifth spot, just outside the top four.
Glennon said it would be another good test for the side.
Meanwhile in the Ballarat Highlands Bowls Region’s Highlands division 1 competition, Kyneton and Kyneton Golf continued their good form.
Golf got the win against Lancefield, 63 (14)-47 (2).
AnthonyBarker’srinkwasthebigwinner for Golf, winning 23-10.
It was a massive win for David James Thomas’ rink for Kyneton, winning 36-9. Kynetonsitsontopoftheladderaheadof Kyneton Golf.
In other matches, Diggers Rest beat Broadbord, 73 (15)-45 (1), while Romsey beat Kilmore, 78 (16)-39 (0) and Gisborne also got the perfect result, beating Woodend (80)-43 (0).
After eight rounds, Kilmore and Romsey aretheotherteamsmakingupthetopfour.
Gisborne Giants have signed Mitch Bongiovanni for next year’s Riddell District Football League season. The Giants said that adding Bongiovanni further strengthens its commitment to building a high-quality, premier program with outstanding people. “From his early days as a talented junior with the Western Jets, to honing his senior craft at St Albans, and rising to the role of vice-captain at WRFL [Western Football League] powerhouse Caroline Springs for almost a decade, Mitch has firmly established himself as a premier-level footballer.”
Softball
The Goonawarriors had a day out in the Sunbury Softball Association Saturday competition. In the women’s competition, the Goonawarriors beat the Macedon Vixens with mother and daughter Toni Wilkins-Waretini and Toniyah Wilkins-Waretini both getting grand slams. Reservoir Rats and Dragons tied 10-all in the other game. In the men’s competition, the Goonawarriors beat the Dragons 29-1, while the Ratpack beat the Outlaws,7-0.
