Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 16th December 2025

Merry Christmas everyone!

Hume rates review

By Courtney Black

Hume council will consult with the community next year about adopting differential property rates in the 2027-28 financialyear.

At the 8 December council meeting, Cr Sam Misho said differential rates would addressequityissues.

“Residential property rates should not be calculated on the same basis as that of commercial and industrial properties,” Cr Mishosaid.

Cr Misho said as at June 30, most of the $57 million in overdue rates were from

residential properties, not commercial or industrialproperties.

“There is much more financial hardship among residential properties because you would have single parents, pensioners, or oneincomeearningpartner,”hesaid.

“Residential properties are not income producing, while commercial properties are… and they don’t use the infrastructure, facilitiesandamenitiesinthesameway.”

Cr Misho said, if adopted, differential rates would replace uniform rates, and change the way rates are levied on different typesofproperty.

According to the ministerial guidelines,

differential rates can apply to lands including those that are residential, farm, commercial, industrial, vacant, and recreationalaswellasretirementvillages.

CrNaimKurtsaidHumeisoneofveryfew councils in Victoria which still uses a flat propertyrate.

“Companies within our community that produce billions of dollars … pay the same rate in the dollar as a one-bedroom unit in Tullamarine or Broadmeadows,” Cr Kurt said.

Cr Kurt said he hopes the rates will discourage vacant land holders, not businesses who provide jobs. “Additional

time to undertake community engagement andseehowwecanperfectthis…isneeded.”

Cr Daniel English and Cr Jim Overend both said they were concerned about the impact on small businesses, but welcomed communityengagement.

“We have to look after our really small businesseswhoarestrugglingtomakeends meet,theydohirealotofpeoplefromHume … so I’m glad we are … not rushing into it,” CrEnglishsaid.

The council will undertake community consultation in 2026 before deciding whether to introduce differential rates in 2027-28.

Children across Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges, including Penelope, 4, are eagerly counting down the days until the big man in red arrives. As the end of 2025 draws near, the team at StarWeeklywould like to wish readers and advertisers a Merry Christmas and safe and happy 2026. The first edition for 2026 will be out on Tuesday 6 January.

(Ljubica Vrankovic)

Youth council explored

By Georgia Tacey

Macedon Ranges council will look to implement a youth council.

The youth council will comprise of nine positions – three from each council ward –and will serve a term of two years, starting in June 2026.

Members will be appointed through an expression of interest process, which will be designed and delivered by a working group of young people.

When moving the motion at the 26 November council meeting, Cr Cassy Borthwick amended it to include council to re-

ceive a progress report at the June 2026 council meeting.

Cr Borthwick encouraged young residents to apply.

“Opportunities like this are really valuabletothecommunityandalsototheyoung people in the area,” she said.

“This presents an opportunity to explore interests for youth and have that mentoring program with us.”

She said there are many young people in the community who want to engage with politics, but might not know where to start.

“I think it’s important to understand that in the community, there are young, fresh

minds that have an interest in this space, but don’t necessarily understand what it entails,” Cr Borthwick said.

Council is currently accepting expressions of interest for the working group, with residents aged 12 to 17 invited to to join the group to form the youth council.

Council said this is an opportunity for young people who want to contribute to the process of developing the youth council but who can’t commit to being a youth councillor themselves.

Expressions of interest for youth councillors will open next year, where youth from across the Macedon Ranges will have the

Goonawarra Gearheads grind into gear

The Goonawarra Primary School’s Goonawarra Gearheads have been competing statewide this year.

The students have recently competed in the nationals south First LEGO League National Championships, after scoring second at the regional competition.

As part of the project, STEM educator SeanSherlocksaidthestudentsresearched their own topic for the competition’s innovation project under the unearthed theme.

“They emailed many people from Melbourne university and they managed to get two people that were really interested

in potentially giving us some feedback,” he said.

“They suggested an option which was pseudo archeology, which we had no idea about.

“The kids went through and did a bit of research and they developed all these posters.”

Grade 6 students Leela and Kim explained the concept.

“Pseudo archaeology is fake archaeology that’s like myths and made up lies,” Kim said. “And usually the people who make these made up lies they want to profit off

of it.

Leah added, “some people believe that the pyramids were built by aliens or the gods … but real archaeologists found a way to prove that it wasn’t.”

The students completed an informative video as well to teach people about the subject, and created a checklist for students and teachers to go through to discover if something was based on credible sources.

He said he was proud of how the students went in the competition and throughout the year.

chance to share ideas and influence decisions that matter to them.

The youth council will be able to provide advice to council, and will help shape ideas and influence decisions that matter most to the youth of the Macedon Ranges.

Council said the working group will shape the youth council from the ground up, but will not be eligible to apply to join the youth council for the 2026 term.

Expressions of interest for the working group are open now, and close on 31 December.

Details: yoursay.mrsc.vic.gov.au/ youth-council

Funding boost

Macedon Ranges libraries are set to receive a funding boost.

All four of the Goldfields Macedon Ranges library branches in Kyneton, Gisborne, Woodend and Romsey will benefit from $62,865, which will provide better access to library facilities and programs and increase community engagement with services.

“This funding to Macedon Ranges libraries will strengthen their ability to provide safe spaces and essential learning resources, creating real benefits for our community,” Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said.

The funding will help deliver the installation of prefabricated soundproof meeting pods in each of the four libraries.

The pods will address growing demand for quiet, connected environments by providing wifi enabled, fit for purpose infrastructure. It will also support remote work, study and online engagement for users.

The funding is part of $4 million from the 2025-26 Living Libraries Infrastructure Program from the state government.

Local Government Minister Nick Staikos congratulated the recipients.

“Victorian libraries are more than just books, and we are committed to providing our communities with safe, modern and inclusive spaces that they can be proud of,” he said.

The Goonawarra Gearheads with their innovation project on pseudo archeology. (Georgia Tacey)

Cat containment delayed

By Georgia Tacey

Macedon Ranges council has pushed back changes to is cat containment policy until 2029.

At the 26 November council meeting, councillors voted to adopt the Domestic AnimalManagementPlanfor2026to2029, with a number of amendments moved by Cr Jennifer Anderson.

A cat containment policy requiring cats to be confined to an owner’s property 24 hours a day, was scheduled to be implemented across the shire from 2028 as part of the plan, but Cr Anderson argued

it should be pushed back to the final year of the plan to allow time for cat owners to prepare.

Other amendments included ongoing support for cat owners to transition cats from free roaming to contained and an investigation into ways to ease the cost and improve compliance.

Council will also now assess community feedback to look into the effectiveness of the ‘for the love of paws’ cat and dog education campaign before expanding it, and also explore options and potential costs of more open space across the shire for dogs and people.

Cr Daniel Young was against the amended motion, saying he had an issue with delaying the cat containment.

“There is extensive research that’s been done on the damage that cats do to native wildlife in this country, and it is absolutely horrific the destruction they wrought on the natural environment,” he said.

Cr Anderson said more time would help smooth the transition.

“My concern about bringing the cat containment in too soon is we did get quite a lot of feedback and concerns from some residents about the costs and perhaps the difficulty in doing it, and that they may

Diggers Rest students shine in fundraiser

Diggers Rest Primary School students have donated big to a special cause.

The student leadership team have wrapped up their year-long fundraiser in which they raised money to buy multicultural children’s books for the Joan Kirner Newborn Services at Western Health.

Students organised a drive to create Snuggle Hearts for the newborn services, as well as held a Walk for Prems Day to raise money for the cause.

From their fundraising efforts, the student leadership team were able to purchase multiple children’s books in multiple languages including Vietnam-

ese, Burmese, Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Tamil and Punjabi for families to read to their babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

On 25 November, the student leadership team visited the hospital to deliver the new library of books.

Assistant principal Brad Kemp said the students raised over $1600 which went towards the purchase of the books.

“The students were really fortunate. They were able to on a hospital tour around the NICU, which was pretty unique because no visitors are normally admitted to the NICU area of the hos-

pital but because of our engagement with them this year, special permission was granted to actually see newborns that were using the snuggle hearts,” he said.

“They were able to meet a parent who just had twins in the NICU and they were able to observe her reading one of the children’s books in Hindi to her newborns so it was a pretty emotional moment for the students but also the staff of Joan Kirner, you could see a few teary eyes and just their acknowledgement and thanks for the work the student leadership team had put together for them.”

Veteran groups get funding boost across Macedon Ranges

A number of groups across the Macedon Ranges are benefiting from state government and the Victorian Veterans Council’s grants.

Veterans Minister Natalie Suleyman and Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas announced the recipients of this year’s Anzac Day Proceeds Fund and Victoria Remembers programs, which will provide more than $1.5 million in funding to deliver vital support to veterans and their families across the state.

The Anzac Day Proceeds Fund delivers more than $1.1 million to support 20 organisations delivering welfare and wellbeing initiatives for veterans, with grants of up to

$150,000 for statewide programs and up to $50,000 for local projects.

Three local groups were awarded funding from the Anzac Proceeds Fund.

Macedon Ranges Group of Bendigo Legacy will receive $7470 for Well-being events for aging Legacy Widows.

Gisborne RSL Sub Branch will receive $30,000 for members welfare activities and functions.

Path of the Horse in Trentham will receive $50,000forPathtoRecovery,anEquineMental Health program for vterans and families.

Another group was the recipient for the Victoria Remembers Program, with the Mt

not decide to have a cat or that perhaps that cat might even end up being dumped somewhere,” she said.

Mayor Kate Kendall stressed that those most affected by the plan will be the vulnerable members of the community.

“I do think the people that will be affected most by it will probably be our most vulnerable populations, that might not have the funding or the time to come up with these cat containment strategies,” she said.

“That’s where I think things like grant programs and things like that can help the community with that introduction.”

Only Cr Young voted against the motion.

Local upgrades to the Ranges

Communities across the Macedon Ranges will soon benefit from improved walking, cycling and other transport links.

Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas announced the shire will share in more than $1 million in funding for small-scale transport projects, alongside Hepburn.

The state government’s Flexible Local Transport Solutions Program provides funding to help seed small-scale initiatives across Victoria that meet local transport needs, integrate with other local transport options, and improve transport access.

Macedon Ranges council’s Safer Pathways to Schools Project will receive $140,000 to construct three missing-link pathways to support active transport and provide safer pedestrian connections to existing bus stops, school facilities and the general community in Gisborne.

Hepburn council’s Central Springs Road Daylesford - Missing Link Path Connection Project will receive $90,750 to construct a 106-metre missing link footpath to provide a safer transport corridor along Central Springs Road in Daylesford.

The new path will provide an off-road pedestrian connection within a key precinct which contains a kindergarten, childcare centre, primary school and the main street.

“We’re backing local projects that make a real difference for communities in Macedon Ranges and Hepburn Shire Council areas because we know that better connections mean better opportunities,” Ms Thomas said.

“These projects will help promote an active and healthy lifestyle, while also providing more options for locals to get to school, public transport and recreational centres.”

Macedon ANZAC Day Dawn Service, receiving $29,726 for the 2026 Mt Macedon ANZAC Day Dawn Service.

“Congratulations to our successful recipients. We’re giving local organisations the power to care for the veterans who served Australia and help Victorians understand the cost, and the value, of their sacrifice,” Ms Thomas said.

More than $410,000 provided through the Victoria Remembers Grant Program will fund 27 projects with grants of up to $30,000 to support commemorative events, new memorials and education projects.

The Diggers Rest Primary School student leadership team with their donated books at Joan Kirner Newborn Services at Western Health (Supplied).

Plan dedicated to late Uncle

By Courtney Black

Hume council has adopted an updated Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) dedicated to the memory of Uncle Darryl Burns. At the 8 December council meeting, Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung woman Kylie Spencer acknowledged Country and shared her condolences at the loss of Darryl Burns, a Wiradjuri and Ulupna, Yorta Yorta man.

“Unfortunately we did lose [Darryl] a few weeks ago… his contribution to this document has been amazing.. [with] his

knowledge and insight of the area,” Ms Spencer said.

Ms Spencer said she was excited to be part of the RAP working group, and looked forward to seeing how the plan develops in the future, particularly after the signing of Victoria’s Treaty.

Councillor Karen Sherry said the RAP reflects the council’s commitments to equitable outcomes for indigenous community members

“This plan ensures that we continue addressing inequities in health, education and well-being and maintain visibility and

cultural safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,“ Cr Sherry said.

Cr Sherry said council has previously delivered 130 actions that embed reconciliation principles.

“The RAP provides a consistent framework for deepening our relationships with traditional owners and community organisations, it keeps the trust going.”

Councillor Josh Bell said Hume has one of the largest First Nations communities in Victoria.

“Not only are we a proud and vibrant multicultural community, but we are also

New leader for business association

The Sunbury Business Association (SBA) has a new president, with Michael Osborne standing down after 14 years.

Mr Osborne decided to step away from the role after a total of 15 years in the organisation, but said he plans to still be involved with the SBA committee.

Of his time, he said he enjoyed most working with the small business community of Sunbury and their various networking nights and educational workshops.

“Without a doubt, the thing that has

given me the most pleasure and pride has been working with the many people over the past 15 years that have given up time from their own businesses, employment and families to assist the small business community of Sunbury and surrounds,” he said.

Taking over his role is Elizabeth Homann, who said she is excited for the new challenge.

“My big goal for the year is to triple our membership and make sure businesses really understand the value they get from being part of the SBA,” she said.

“I want people to feel that being involved genuinely helps their business, whether that’s through connections, visibility, support, or simply feeling part of something bigger.”

She said she has a lot of ideas for SBA, and is excited to bring them to life.

“I can see big things happening for the SBA, especially with our revitalisation that started this year - a fuller-thanfull program of events ... I want to build on all of this momentum and keep driving the SBA forward,” she said.

ArtRise shortlisted for a National Growth Areas Alliance Award

ArtRise has been shortlisted for a National Growth Areas Alliance Award.

The Jacksons Hill redevelopment project was one of 21 local councils shortlisted for the 2025 awards, which is an annual celebration of local governments that are delivering real outcomes for residents in Australia’s outer suburbs.

The project was recognised under the Place & Community Activation in Growth Areas category, which recognises councils for creating liveable, connected communities.

The category challenges local councils to promote community togetherness by

creating a sense of place and belonging for growtharearesidents.CouncilsaidJacksons Hill exemplifies this mission, transforming existing infrastructure of the former female psychiatric ward into newly developed spaces for artistic expression and cultural engagement.

The Sunbury Community Arts and Cultural Precinct at Jacksons Hill brings a new chapter for Sunbury through the creation of a hub that will allow residents to connect and create at the iconic site for generations to come.

Mayor Carly Moore said it was a proud moment for council.

a proud home for many members of the oldest living culture,” Cr Bell said.

“They have different cultures, spiritualities and connections to country,” he said.

Cr Sherry said the plan also recognises the resilience, histories and rights of indigenous peoples.

“This is really important at this time because of the treaty process that will come out of… parliament,“ Cr Sherry said.

The updated RAP will be made available on the council website.

Sunbury’s green trench trial recognised

Greater Western Water’s (GWW) innovative Sunbury backfill trial has been recognised at the Green Gown Awards Australasia, which celebrate sustainability excellence across the tertiary education sector in Australia and New Zealand.

Winning the ‘Leading the Circular Economy’ category, the award acknowledges the project’s collaborative approach to advancing sustainable construction practices with the use of recycled materials to backfill trenches.

The trial involves backfilling trenches at GWW’s Sunbury depot using a mix of recycled materials, including crushed concrete, glass, plastic, and rubber from tyres. These materials have been lab-tested by VU and are undergoing a 14-month monitoring period to assess their durability under heavy truck loads.

GWW’s general manager of strategy and partnerships Kessia Thomson said the trial could reshape how the construction industry approaches trench backfilling, with major implications for sustainability and cost-efficiency.

“Projects like this pave the way for longterm environmental benefits by turning recycled materials into viable products and supporting a circular economy,” she said. By replacing traditional materials like crushed rock, sand or gravel which are increasingly scarce and higher in cost, the project helps conserve natural resources and diverts waste from landfill. It has already demonstrated environmental impact, saving more than 280 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per 100 metres of trenching.

“This trial offers a cost-effective way to backfill trenches and is shifting industry expectations of what’s possible in sustainable infrastructure. We see this technology strengthening local industry, both within our service area and beyond,” Ms Thomson said.

“Being shortlisted for a National Growth Areas Alliance Award is a proud moment for Hume City Council and the Sunbury community as the Jacksons Hill redevelopment was a vision brought to life through collaboration, creativity and a commitment to delivering spaces that truly serve our residents,” she said.

“We are especially proud to be nominated in the Place & Community Activation in Growth Areas category. As one of Greater Melbourne’s fastest-growing regions we are committed to building a city where everyone has the chance to thrive by providing opportunitiesforcreativityandconnection.”

The project first won its category in the Victoria University Vice-Chancellor’s Awards, which led to its nomination as a finalist for the Green Gown Awards. It was also recently listed as a finalist for the Victorian branch’s Australian Water Association (AWA) awards, further recognising its contribution to sustainable innovation in the water sector.

The Green Gown Awards, delivered by Australasian Campuses Towards Sustainability (ACTS), are supported by the United Nations Environment Program and are considered the leading sustainability awards for the region’s education sector.

Past president Michael Osborne and new president Elizabeth Homann of the Sunbury Business Association (Supplied).

Project partners on site during the backfill trial.

Tackling gambling harm

Council areas across Melbourne’s north-west continually record some of the highest gambling losses from Electronic Gambling Machines (EGMs), or poker machines, in Victoria. Advocates are calling on the state government to introduce measures to protect vulnerable people struggling with gambling addiction. Sam Porter reports.

Moving to Melbourne’s west was supposed to be a fresh start for Merapi and her husband.

After struggling with EGM addiction in their previous hometown of Auckland, the couple settled in Victoria to be closer to Merapi’s sister.

Once in Melbourne, Merapi noticed there were four gambling venues within a few-kilometre radius of her family’s new home.

“It doesn’t matter which way we went — north, south, east or west — there was a venue. We could even walk to some of them,” Merapi said.

“We found that the venues here were massive. We couldn’t believe it. Our gambling just grew and grew and we did try and stop but we just couldn’t.”

According to the state government, the social costs of gambling harm across the state were estimated to be $14.1 billion in 2023. In regions already experiencing social and financial disadvantage the impacts of gambling harm are much greater.

Living in poverty, that was our norm. I accepted that this was normal because I deserved it. Because I was the one that made these choices -

For Merapi and her husband, the high density of nearby poker-machine venues made it easy for them to gamble again.

“We were in the same place we were when we were in New Zealand, if not worse,” Merapi said.

As a result of gambling harm, the family was evicted from seven homes in 11 years, andMerapiandherhusbandhadtheircars repossessed. It affected the community around them, especially their children.

“The two older [kids] were jumping from school to school. There was no stability,” Merapi said. “Living in poverty, that was our norm. I accepted that this was normal because I deserved it. Because I was the one that made these choices.”

Merapi said she hit rock bottom after she was caught tampering with money at her local sports club where she was working as the treasurer.

It was the turning point she needed to get better.

“We knew this was not our values. This is not how we were raised, but something about gambling and our pokies addiction drove us to become this way.”

Merapi and her husband decided to self-exclude from local gambling venues and sought professional help.

Merapi received free, confidential financialandtherapeuticcounsellingfrom IPC Health over the course of three years.

“It (therapeutic counselling) changed my life. We have learned to celebrate the small things like staying in a house and not being evicted, like owning our own car, like making sure our children have stabilityintheschoolsthey’reat,”shesaid.

“Butittakesalot.Thisisnotaneasything to overcome. You really need a village behind you.”

IPC Health community engagement officer Sarah-Jane Blunt is part of the organisation’s Gambler’s Help team.

She said EGMs are the most harmful products on the market.

“They’re designed to make people keep coming back for more because even when people have a near miss, with the sounds and the music and the lights that go off, their brain releases dopamine. So they’re still thinking that they’ve actually had that win when we know they haven’t,” Ms Blunt said.

Ms Blunt said communities are losing huge amounts of money from gambling harm.

“We’re losing more money because of all the financial impacts, the emotional psychologicalstressaswell,thedepression and suicide, relationships and domestic violence, and productivity.”

IPC Health chief executive Jayne Nelson said people start gambling for many reasons, including for entertainment or social connection, and sometimes to cope with stress, financial pressure or difficult life circumstances.

However, she said in many cases gambling harm is about environments rather than individual choices.

“Regions become gambling hotspots when there is a high concentration of poker machines, long trading hours, and venues located close to where people live, shop and socialise. Harm is much higher in communities experiencing financial stress or disadvantage,” Ms Nelson said.

“In Melbourne’s west, we see all these factors come together.”

According to the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission, the City of Brimbank has led in EGM losses statewide for more than a decade now.

In the 2024-25 financial year, more than $175 million was lost to the 953 EGMs in the municipality — an average loss of $1129 per adult.

Brimbank ranks in the bottom ten per centofcouncilareasinVictoriaonthe2021

SEIFA Index of Relative Socio-Economic Disadvantage, with a score of 912.

The council area’s unemployment rate is

also higher than the state average.

“There’s a statistical correlation between unemployment and gambling loss,” Ms Nelson said.

To reduce gambling harm in hotspot regions, Ms Nelson said measures should be taken to lower the number of EGMs in high-loss areas and introduce mandatory pre-commitment systems to allow people to set safe gambling limits.

“Reducing gambling harm requires systemic change, not just individual effort,” she said.

Alliance for Gambling Reform (AGR) chief advocate Tim Costello agrees.

He said the state government should mandate compulsory cashless cards that allow people to set their own loss limits, as voluntary use of such cards is not enough.

“You’re locking in your losses saying ‘I can’t afford to lose more than $200’ and then you are locked out for the time you designated… It might be 24 hours or a week,” Mr Costello said.

The initiative was recommended by the 2010 Productivity Commission Inquiry into gambling.

“You give people the right to still gamble and give them a proven method to safeguard them because we know once in front of the machine you will lose all track of time,” he said.

The state government said it’s investing more than $41 million to prevent and address gambling harm, including increased funding for the Gambler’s Help program.

“We’ve also slowed spin rates on new machines[and]reducedthecashloadlimit to $100 to prevent and address gambling harm across Victoria,” the spokesperson said.

According to the state government’s 2025-26 budget, 81.5 per cent of the estimated $2.7 billion gambling tax revenue will go towards the Hospitals and Charities Fund, the Mental Health Fund,

andtheCommunitySupportFund,leaving the remaining 18.5 per cent as direct revenue.

The state government also recently trialled the mandated cashless ‘YourPlay’ card in Monash, Ballarat and Greater Dandenong council areas.

The trial ended on 30 November with its evaluation to commence soon, the state government said.

However, the AGR criticised the trial for its lack of engagement with local councils andfornotincludingamandatory,binding loss limit feature.

As a result, Monash council withdrew its initial support of the trial.

In a joint letter signed by members of the AGR and 13 Victorian councils including, Brimbank, Wyndham and Maribyrnong, representatives expressed their dissatisfaction with the trial and called on the state government to meet to discuss gambling reforms.

Today, Merapi and her husband are well-supported by the people around them.

Merapi offered advice to her younger self.

“I would say to her to understand that gambling, it doesn’t discriminate. It doesn’t actually care. It has no sense of family, has no sense of self or culture... nothing” she said.

Merapi, a respected community leader, works as the manager for Life Community Kitchen in Melbourne’s west.

The organisation provides thousands of free meals each year to disadvantaged locals.

“I knew that I was called for greater things. It was just delayed, but I got there in the end.”

Gambler’s Help Victoria: 1800 858 858 (24 hours)

IPC HEALTH (Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong and Wyndham): 7037 2104 or email gamblershelp@ipchealth.com.au

Merapi

Alliance for Gambling Reform chief advocate Tim Costello. (Supplied)

IPC Health community engagement officer Sarah-Jane Blunt with chief executive Jayne Nelson. (Sam Porter)

Christmas gifts sorted

ChristmascheerhasarrivedtoTheGallery.

The Gallery’s December exhibition is full of festive flair, with plenty of wreaths, art and Christmas trees decorating the space. Artists have come together to showcase their Christmas pieces for the season, with the artwork on sale to purchase for some extra special Christmas gifts like Christmas tree decorations, handmade bags, cards, coasters, ornaments, jewelry and more.

The Gallery members are all artists who live locally in the Macedon Ranges, who have turned their hands to create the festive arts and crafts, with the artists’

specialities on display.

The festive display takes up the whole maingalleryarea,andtheartists’creations willbeavailabletopurchaseforthoseextra special gifts for the festive season.

Throughout the year, members of The Gallery host exhibitions in the space for their own personal exhibitions, with the creativity of Macedon Ranges residents on display.

The Gallery Mt Macedon is open 10am to 4pm Friday to Tuesday, at 684 Mt Macedon Road, Mt Macedon. The Christmas exhibition will run all December, with a new exhibition set for the new year.

Briefs

Man airlifted following crash Police were on scene at a property in Sunbury following a collision on 11 December. It is understood there was a collision involving a vehicle and a man on Lancefield Road about 7pm. The man was taken to a medical centre on Dornoch Drive, where he was airlifted with life-threatening injuries. The driver of the vehicle stopped at the scene and is assisting police with their enquiries. A woman who accompanied the man to the medical centre is also assisting police with their enquiries.

New top cop for Ranges

A new divisional commander has this week began overseeing the Greater Bendigo, Macedon Ranges, Campaspe and Goldfields areas. Superintendent Paul Gardiner – a 32-year police veteran and Central Victorian local – has spent the last four years managing the force’s Public Order Response Team and State Liquor Unit. A Bendigo local of more than 14 years – Superintendent Gardiner is keen to lead and support his own local police across Central Victoria in keeping the community safe. “I’ll be doing a number of station visits over the next few weeks to meet more of our local police – the experts in this area – to get a better understanding of their challenges and focus areas,” he said.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

The Gallery member Zoe Beman showing off the festive art on display. (Damjan Janevski) 521459_01

Discarded on the dump

In December 1949, 12-year-old Ivan Lawson, scrounging in the Footscray rubbish tip for bike parts, got the shock of hislifewhenhefoundawoman’sbody200 yards behind the Hume Steel Works. In tears, the boy raced home to tell his father, who immediately notified the police. This wasthepenultimatedayoftheyearandthe fourth murder of that week in Melbourne.

The badly battered deceased was Maisie Marsh, nee Oakley, of no fixed place of abode, 26 years old but looking twice her age. Her jacket, dress and underwear had been ripped, and nearby lay a length of bloodstained timber.

The back of Maisie’s head had been crushed, and her throat slashed several times.Therewasafiveinchgashacrossher throat and a broken razor was embedded in the wound. Newspapers had been wrapped around her neck to prevent the blood from leaking, presumably over the killer and/or his car.

Detectives had no doubt that Maisie’s last journey had been in a car, and initially it was theorised that she had been murdered inside a motor vehicle before being discarded in Footscray. A car could have been driven on the track from Dynon Road or from the New Footscray Road end of the dump. Because the body was found where the piles of refuse were largest, thus affording some privacy, they believed that she had met her death at the Dynon Road end.

Police found the cabby who’d picked up Maisie, accompanied by a foreign gentleman, outside the Menzies Hotel that morning, He had driven them to New Footscray Road, where they had alighted near the docks. Maisie had suggested to her companion that they enjoy a stroll in the unsavoury Dudley Flats, near which were piles of garbage from the Dynon Road factories. The couple walked off in the direction of the tip. If the cabby had been at all curious about this unusual pair,- the man was Jamaican – he made no indication of it. He had collected his cash and driven off in search of other fares in the busy pre-new year period.

Apart from their differences in age and colour, the couple’s relationship was somewhat unusual. Oscar Skyers, a crew member on the interstate freighter, SS Amicus, had first met Maisie five months previously in Little Bourke Street. Since then, they had met up at various ports, with Skyers smuggling his girlfriend on board to enjoy several free trips. She had always displayed an enthusiastic interest in him, not, as he would have preferred, for his dashing good looks, but for the plump wallet he carried in his pocket. Somewhere along one of their clandestine voyages, he had paid her generously for services rendered, only to discover that shehadalsopickedhispocketofthethirty pounds which he’d saved for his brother’s widow.

Sadly, Oscar had no immediate opportunity to tackle Maisie with her treachery. Someone, resentful of his shipmate’s onboard capers, had informed the captain that an unauthorised passenger was plying her trade on the Amicus. Maisie was unceremoniously shown the gangway and left to make her ownwaybacktoMelbourneonterrafirma. But now, reunited with his beloved, in the unromantic environs of Dudley Flats, Skyers challenged Maisie with the theft of his hard earned money during their last timetogether.Sheadmittedit,addingthat

she had handed it all to “her man”. Given the nature of the transaction, the fact that she was separated from her husband and that she spent a lot of time around the Melbournedocks,itwouldappearthatshe referred to a pimp, if one existed. Skyers called her a cheat and a thief. Taking exceptiontohismanner,Maisiewrenched offashoeandgave Skyersagoodwhacking for his insolence whilst taunting him for his naivety.

Skyers lost control, seized the length of wood and wielded it savagely. Then, horrified by what he had done, he hurried away and caught a train to New South Wales.

Maisie was identified by fingerprints. Twenty five detectives searched the docks and questioned people in the vicinity, whilst the Special Branch guarded the docks on the lookout for a coloured seaman.

At dawn on New Year’s Eve, police from

Footscray and homicide did a sweep from Williamstown to Spencer Street bridge, accompanied by photographers and fingerprint experts.

The post mortem was performed by Assistant Government Pathologist, Dr Flemming, who found that Maisie had diedofmultipleblowstotheheadandthat her throat had been cut after death.

Skyers was arrested in Newcastle and taken to Sydney. Unlike most homicide suspects, he was so well behaved that he didn’t need handcuffs for his extradition.

On 4 January, 1950, Oscar Skyers, aged 51,married,Jamaican-bornbutresidentof Cardiff, Wales, was remanded at the City Court until 10 January after being refused bail.

Spectators in court included Maisie’s estranged husband, Leo March, of Forbes, New South Wales. The court learned that the couple had two children, aged six and four years, who lived with their father.

Maisie was often seen near the Melbourne docks, presumably touting for business, and had reverted to her maiden name, Oakley, for some years. What had led to their separation, whether drug or alcohol addiction, infidelity, mental illness or domestic violence, is not known.

Skyersresolutelydeniedusingtherazor, admitting only to hitting Maisie with a length of timber. Why?

“She insulted me. She thought because I’m black, I’m a fool and that’s why she took my money.” Then he wept, “I loved her. I lost my temper.”

Evidencewasgiventhattheaccusedwas illiterate and that he suffered mild brain damage from a World War I injury that impaired his judgment.

On 22 February, 1950, Skyers was acquitted of murder and found guilty of manslaughter. After serving his sentence of eight years’ jail, he was deported.

Embrace your inner animal in our nature play zones.

Swing through rope courses, scamper along discovery trails and slink through tunnels. It’s exciting what a zoo can do.

Plan your visit zoo.org.au

*Terms and conditions apply

Code one calls on the rise

By Georgia Tacey

Winterdemandcontributedtoariseincode oneambulancecallouts,includinginHume and the Macedon Ranges, new Ambulance Victoria data reveals.

Humerecordedthesecondhighestnumber of code one ambulance callouts in the state in the three months to 30 September.

Paramedics responded to 4750 code one call outs in Hume – those requiring urgent paramedic and hospital care deploying lightsandsirens–inHumebetweenJulyand September.

Only Casey (5441) recorded more code one calls during that period.

The number of code one calls responded to in Hume rose from 4706 between April and June, and coincided with a 28-second increase in response times.

Ambulance Victoria data shows the average code one response time in Hume was 16:32 minutes between July and September, up from 16:04.

Paramedics responded to 57.3 per cent of code one calls within the state government-set benchmark of 15 minutes or less, downfrom59.2percentduringtheprevious three months.

In Sunbury alone, there were 592 code oneambulancecallouts,withanaverageresponse time being 17:57.

Memorial work unveiled

Restoration works to the Malmsbury World War I Memorial have been completed.

The community-led project has been in the works for the past two to three years, with Friends of Malmsbury Gardens and Environs working hard to bring the restoration project to completion.

Macedon Ranges mayor Kate Kendall joined other councillors, Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas and members of the Environs to officially unveil the project.

“Council is incredibly proud to have supported this restoration from beginning to end. Our officers played a key role in guiding the project, offering technical expertise in heritage planning, horticulture and asset management to ensure the

memorial was restored with the care and heritage craftsmanship it deserves,” she said.

Cr Kendall said the restoration returned the memorial to a condition that honours those who served, while strengthening the cultural and historical valueoftheMalmsburyBotanicGardens.

Friends of Malmsbury Gardens and Environs secretary Paula Needham was pleased to see the project finished, which was funded through the state government’s Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour Program with a $27,492 grant.

“The gate was in very bad condition … so I’m glad we were able to do something about it,” she said.

In the Macedon Ranges, paramedics responded to 807 code one call outs in the same period.

Response times were kept at an average of 17 minutes, with 53.9 per cent of callouts reaching the targeted response time of under 15 minutes.

This was higher than the previous quarter, which saw 777 code one call outs with a 16:44 response time, however the percentage of callouts reaching the targeted response time remained the same over both quarters.

Ambulance Victoria executive director regional operations Michael Georgious said the demand for ‘lights and sirens’ ambu-

lances increased by 2.8 per cent this quarter across the state.

“Winter consistently brings the highest emergency call volumes, and this year was no exception. This was our busiest first quarter on record with 101,632 Code 1 emergencies in just three months, and overall, it was our second busiest quarter ever,” he said.

This was another challenging winter – the entire health system was extremely busy with seasonal illness. We are incredibly proud of our highly skilled paramedics and first responders for the exceptional care theyprovidetheircommunities–allday,every day.”

Bridge opens to traffic in Diggers Rest

ThenewWatsonsRoadbridgehasopenedto traffic in Diggers Rest.

The opening of the new road bridge over the Sunbury train line marks the 88th level crossing removal in Melbourne, permanently separating trains from vehicles to provide safer connections for the growing Diggers Rest community.

The milestone was marked with 14 classic cars from the Macedon Ranges and DistrictMotorClubroadtestingthenewbridge, which includes a pedestrian path to future proof for the growing Diggers Rest communityandmakeiteasierforeveryonetomove across the rail corridor.

It also follows the opening of the new

Golden Way road bridge and removal of the Old Calder Highway level crossing in June.

A new community open space connecting the Diggers Rest station to the post office was created as part of the project, and 35,000 trees, shrubs and grasses planted across the project area.

More than 8000 vehicles used the Old Calder Highway and Watsons Road level crossings every day, facing delays of up to 36minuteswhen27trainstravelledthrough the crossings during the morning peak, according to the state government. Thismarksthelastlevelcrossingremoval along the Sunbury line.

Malmsbury Gardens and Environs Secretary Paula Needham, Cr Jennifer Anderson, Mayor Kate Kendall, State Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas, Malmsbury Gardens and Environs President Rosemary Davies, Cr Janet Pearce, and Cr Rob Guthrie.

Classic cars travel across the new Watsons Road bridge (Supplied).

vicHealth � , Macedon Ranges � Shire Council

See a specialist skin cancer doctor for early detection

When SkinGP opened its doors in July last year, it introduced something new to the Macedon Ranges — a purpose-built skin cancer clinic dedicated to early detection and expert care by accredited skin cancer doctors.

Injust12months,theclinichasdiagnosed and treated numerous melanomas, many invisibletothenakedeye.

“EveryAustralianisatriskofskincancer,” saysDrAshvinArul,founderofSkinGP.

“Seventy percent of us will face it at some point, and every 30 minutes someone in Australia is diagnosed with melanoma. These are not just numbers — they’re peopleinourcommunity.”

Why Early Detection Matters

SkinGP’s mission is simple: save lives through prevention and early diagnosis. Theclinicusesadvancedtechnologysuchas mole mapping total body photography and high-resolution dermoscopy medicams, enabling doctors to detect changes long before they become visible to the naked eye.

Doctors at SkinGP are accredited skin cancerdoctors,meaningthey’vecompleted advancedtrainingthroughtheSkinCancer College Australasia—the only formal accreditation body in Australia and New Zealand. SkinGP is also the only clinic in the Macedon Ranges with accredited skin cancer doctors, ensuring patients receive care from experts who focus exclusively on skincancermedicine.

A Personal Commitment

ForDrBronwynEdmunds,skincancercare ispersonal.GrowingupinQueensland,she sawthelifelongimpactofsunexposure.

“In Australia, sun damage builds up

over decades,” she says. “The good news? Skin cancers are often curable—if detected early.”

SkinGP makes this easy with comprehensive checks, including mole mapping total body photography and thorough examinations. Suspicious spots are removed and tested promptly — simple stepsthatsavelives.

Save the Date: Melanoma March 2026

SkinGP proudly hosted the inaugural Melanoma March in the Macedon Ranges earlier this year—a fundraising event supporting melanoma research and

honouring those affected by the disease. March 2025, 100 attended the event and over $7000 was raised for the Melanoma Institute Australia. Next year’s Melanoma March will be held on Sunday, 29 March 2026. Mark your calendars and join us in making a difference. 2026 will hopefully be evenbiggerandbetter!Prisestobewonand free sausage sizzle. More details: https:// melanomamarch.org.au/

Welcome Skin Cancer DoctorDr Rhian Pickard

Dr Rhian Pickard has been part of the Macedon Ranges community for the

past four years and is widely respected for her commitment to excellence and compassionate approach to skin cancer care. She has been providing skin cancer services locally and is now offering her expertise at SkinGP. Bookings are available fromJanuary2026withDrPickard.

Time for Your Skin Check?

If you haven’t had a skin check recently, now is the time. Very early melanomas are highlycurable—butonlyifdetectedearly.

Book online at www.skingp.com.au or call 9969 5000

SKIN CANCER CLINIC

ACCREDITED Skin Cancer Doctors

Dr. Rhian Pickard now at SkinGP

SkinGP proudly hosted the inaugural Melanoma March in the Macedon Ranges earlier this year.

MY PLACE

Fiona Stone, a volunteer and member of the committee of governance at the Woodend Neighbourhood House, caught up with Georgia Tacey to tell her about what she loves about the Macedon Ranges and volunteering locally.

What’s your connection to Woodend and theMacedonRanges?

We’ve lived in Woodend for over 10 years now. After spending a decade overseas, we wantedtocomehometoaquieter,country wayoflifethatwasstillcloseenoughtothe city when work called. Some of our earliest memorieshereareofhowfriendlyeveryone was – that strong sense of community, pints at Holgate, and discovering just how cold Woodend can be. We made friends quickly and felt part of something real and welcoming. My life here would be nothing without my amazingly supportive husband,Terry,bymysidethroughitall.

Whatdoyoulikeaboutwhereyoulive?

I love living somewhere where people genuinelywanttoconnect–chattingabout theirgardens,aquickhello-how-are-youat theshops,onwalks,somuchmoregenuine thanthroughcomputerscreensandphone apps. Our garden has become a big source of happiness: growing food, keeping chickens, sharing it around, and being part of that quiet culture of generosity and sharing. Little things make Woodend feel special –coffee with girlfriends at Nellie’s Shed, the community Christmas trees, knowing the small business operators and supporting them, knowing neighbours by their pets. Of course, talk of Macedon Ranges cannot ignore the seasons, including the delightfully unpredictable cold in December. The life balance and fresh air here are hard to beat, and sharing this lifestyle with Terry makes it even better.

Tell us a bit about the Woodend Neighbourhood House and what you enjoymostaboutvolunteeringthere.

The Woodend Neighbourhood House is a really special place. I first walked in when I was between jobs and feeling a bit lost, and the welcome I received was exactly what I needed. Everyone belongs there —

peopleofallages,backgrounds,andstories – and everyone seems to find their place. I volunteer mainly in the foodbank, and the real,humanconnectionfillsmysoul.Ilove thewaythefoodbankstandsforsupporting peopleinneedwithoutjudgementandeven in hardship, enabling them to maintain their dignity and know the community valuesthemandcaresaboutthem.Someof my favourite moments are simply sharing a cuppa, hearing people’s stories, and having a laugh with the characters who come through the door. When I’m at the House, I feel known, welcome, and part of something worthwhile. What I enjoy most is the people – I’ve met so many I never wouldhavecrossedpathswithotherwise.

Why did you decide to volunteer with WoodendNeighbourhoodHouse?

I’ve always believed in giving back . Someone once told me it’s easy to give money, but giving your time is what really matters. Last December, time was something I had in abundance, and I wanted to use it in a way that felt meaningful. I’d volunteered with other organisations before, but the Woodend Neighbourhood House immediately felt like home. The kindness and desire to help has stayed with me. I’m now on the committee because I truly love what the house does and believe it’s vital for our community.

Where’s your favourite local place to spendtime?

My favourite places in Woodend are the ones that feel like the heart of my life here, my kitchen, where I’m always crafting food; Nellie’s Shed for coffee with friends; afresh-airwalkoutinnature;andthehigh street, where you’re almost guaranteed to bump into someone you know. They’re simple places, but they each bring a different kind of joy. They make me feel happyandatpeace.

Christmas gets crafty

Hume Libraries have brought Christmas cheertothecitythankstoarangeofevents. At the Sunbury Hume Global Learning Centre, crafters came together on Wednesday 3 December to create Christmas wreaths using recycled book pages. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janeskicapturedthefestivefun.

Ivanka Kuric and Kate Hurley were busy crafting. Below: Sarah Dunn and library staff Leanne Conn and Lisa Romano created masterpieces.

Library staff Leanne Conn, Fay Bolch and Lisa Romano had a lot of festive fun.

Jodie Nielsen crafting her festive piece.

Jan Camilleri was hard at work crafting her Christmas wreath.

CREEK BAKERY

Eating support available

The holiday period can be a challenging time for people with eating disorders, an expert has warned.

Around 80,000 residents of Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs fall into this category.

Tanya Durrand, the eating disorders service navigator at North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN),urgedfriendsandfamiliesof people with eating disorders to recognise thatthiscanbeatimeofheightenedstress and concern.

“During December and January there are often a lot of social occasions that centre on food,” she said.

“Also, eating disorders and body image concerns can be very closely related. In the warm summer weather, there can be pressure to wear fewer clothes, which can be really stressful.”

Ms Durrand said the Butterfly Foundation – an Australian Government funded organisation that supports people with the conditions – had observed a regular holiday season spike in hospital admissions associated with eating disorders.

“The Butterfly Foundation also reports an increase in calls to its helplines in the December-January period,” she said.

“As well as the stresses inherent in big annual feasts, there is also a tendency to for some people to try out new dieting regimes for New Year, and that can also exacerbate some of the mental health impacts of eating disorders.”

Thankfully, though, there are some excellent tips and tricks freely available for people at risk, and those who care for them, to minimise the challenges of the holiday period.

Ms Durrand particularly recommended

published by Eating Disorders Victoria, the

Foundation, and Eating Disorders Families Australia. “And it’s important to remember that help and support are available during business hours through Medicare Mental

Mini Christmas craft

Each month, Stephanie Martinez will share an exciting craft project designed to inspire and spark creativity.

Stephanie starred in the first season of MakingItonNetwork10,whereshediscovered 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 Christmas wrapping paper rolls.

Healthon1800595212,”sheadded.

For more information about Tanya’s work with NWMPHN go to https://nwmphn.org. au/news/navigating-eating-disorder-careservice-navigator/

Mini Christmas wrapping paper rolls

Materials

3 different Christmas wrapping papers

Red cardstock

String or twine

Equipment

Scissors

Straw

Glue

Ruler

Hole punch (or something sharp to poke a hole)

Step 1: Cut a 9cm strip from each wrapping paper.

Step 2: Roll each strip around a straw, glue the edge, then slide the straw out to make 3 mini rolls.

Step 3: From red cardstock, make a small top and bottom cap (simple shallow box shape)

Step 4: Punch a hole in the top cap, thread string through, and tie a knot inside.

Step 5: Glue the three rolls into the bottom of the cap, then glue the top cap on to finish.

Stephanie Martinez.

festive season support guides

Butterfly

Nepali firies train in Ranges

Forthefirsttime,acontingentofNepalifire andforestmanagementprofessionalshave visited Victoria to learn from the state’s fire experience.

The visitors were hosted by the Australian Himalayan Foundation through the Australia Awards Fellowship program.

The four-week fellowship, held in Victoria and New South Wales, was designed to strengthen Nepal’s capacity to manage and respond to climate-induced bushfires.

The group spent two weeks in Central Victoria, including in and around the MacedonRanges,trainingwithForestFire Management Victoria (FFMVic) as part of the professional development visit.

The group joined pre-season opera-

tional briefings, bushfire awareness training, and field exercises designed to build practical firefighting skills.

They learnt about fuel reduction burns, visited recent bushfire-affected areas, and compared outcomes between planned burns and uncontrolled fires to see how proactive fire management protects communities and ecosystems.

FFMVic workcentre operations coordinator Vince Cafari planned for FFMVic led training activities to be comprehensive and practical, and said safety was the focus.

“Safety is forefront of what we do. If it’s notsafe,wedon’tdoit.Wehighlightedthe importance of doing things safely,” Mr Ca-

fari said.

The program also included a session about Traditional Owners, where the group learnt about cultural burning practices and the connection between fire, Country, and community.

Both nations recognise that valuing these traditional practices support healthier, more resilient landscapes.

“It’s important for FFMVic because it’s an opportunity for us to share our knowledge and experiences, but also to get from the Nepali Fellows their experiences and their stories,” Mr Cafari said.

The 15 fellows were selected from 10 Nepalese organisations, including ForestAction Nepal, and the Ministry of For-

Celebrating diversity with shared breakfast

The Rapid Relief Team (RRT) has served an appreciation breakfast to educators who support children with disabilities on International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD).

RRTvolunteerscookedup100breakfast burgers at two events held at the primary and secondary campuses of Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School.

Sunbury local team leader Tim Braden said the day was extra important.

“Living with a disability can be challenging, but the staff at schools like Sun-

bury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School do a wonderful job to support these special kids,” he said.

“The Rapid Relief Team thought International Day of People with Disability was a great opportunity to thank those who dedicate their careers to making a better world for people with disability.”

IDpwD is a United Nations observed day held on 3 December each year, aimed at increasing public awareness, understanding and acceptance.

As the charitable arm of the Plymouth

Brethren Christian Church, RRT supports frontline workers and emergency services by providing food, donations and other resources, as well as hosting events for the community.

Established in 2013 to assist emergency services in times of disaster and crisis by providing meals and other support, RRT has expanded to more than 16,000 volunteers and provides support to the community through charitable donations and events.

Details: www.rrtglobal.org/

est and Environment, for their leadership in fire management and potential to drive change.

Australia Awards are prestigious international scholarships and fellowships funded by the federal government.

The fellowships aim to build networks of influence and leadership by strengthening partnerships between Australian organisations and partner organisations in the region.

Fellowships target senior and mid-career officials and professionals who are in a position to advance development outcomes and increase the institutional capacity of partner countries through their leadership.

Macedon Ranges locals will now have access to more community-based mental health care.

The Mount Alexander Mental Health and Wellbeing Local has now commenced services, operating in the wider Macedon Ranges area.

The local has opened up alongside six others across the state.

Mental Health and wellbeing supports are now available via phone or telehealth, with the servicesscalinguptoofferinginperson support over the coming months.

Acting as a ‘front door’ to the mental health system, the Locals offer support and treatment for Victorians experiencing mental illness or psychological distress, including co-occurring substance use or addiction.

A flagship reform following the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, the Local services have already supported over 29,000 Victorians to access free, community-based care.

The total number of Locals has now grown to 22 across 24 locations, making it easier for more Victorians to access mental health and wellbeing support free of charge with no Medicare card or GP referral required.

The Rapid Relief Team with staff from the Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School. (Supplied)

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago 20 December 1985

Last Sunday night saw some 1000 people gathered on Gardiner’s Reserve forGisborne’sCarolsbyCandlelight.

30 years ago 19 December 1995

The Sporting Shooters Association of Australia are making a second attempt togainapermittosetupariflerangein theCobawForest.

20 years ago 13 December 2005

Sunbury residents have been devastated by what could be the worst weed seed infestation in the history of thetown.

Out and about

Each week Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing events and people. Keep an eye on this new weekly section for faces you may know.

10 years ago 15 December 2015

Landholders are being urged to look out for suspicious activity and take down the number plates of unfamiliar vehicles after six fires were deliberately litnorthofMalmsbury.

Gisborne Secondary College and Kyneton High School students, including Marnee, built a cubby which was auctioned for charity. (Damjan Janevski) 521395_01

Orian, 4, explores the winter wonderland on display at Northern Hospital. (Damjan Janevski) 521824_02

Diggers Rest Primary School principal Sheridan Thomas with pupils Christie, 10, Jasmine, 12, Yusuf, 11, Charlotte, 11, Finn, 6, Maari, 6, Sam, 6, Liam, 6, Fyfe, 5, Willow, 6, Luz, 5 and Nephi, 6, are celebrating upgrades at the school. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 520767_04

Tamara and Justus Homburg with granddaughter Raelia, 4, Susie Laurie, Melanie Kinsey and Narelle McGellin are bringing festive joy to Riddells Creek. (Damjan Janevski) 521515_01

Claire joined in the International Day for People with a Disability celebrations at Thomastown Recreation and Aquatic Centre. (Damjan Janevski) 521056_01

Hume Tennis manager Tim Connelly is gearing up for a big summer of wheelchair tennis in Craigieburn. (Damjan Janevski) 521492_03

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the

1 Related to sound (5)

4 Retreat, climb down (9)

9 Of equal value (2,3)

10 Closest to the centre (9)

11 Workroom for an artist, photographer, etc. (6)

12 Plant scientist (8)

14 Inexorable (10)

15 Termination (3)

17 Stomach muscles (3)

19 Exaggerated representation (10)

23 Stigmatise (8)

24 Beauty treatment (6)

26 With many uses (9)

27 Temperate (5) 28 Assertion (9)

29 Pulled (5)

Marriage partner (6)

Roman equivalent of the Greeks’ Poseidon (7)

Crimson (7)

Sympathy (10)

Maybe (7)

Plants absorb carbon – (7)

Leeway (8)

13 Pretty (10)

16 Island group in the Indian Ocean (8)

18 Drink made with wine, fruit and brandy (7)

19 Bravery (7)

20 Passage (7)

21 Colourful arc (7)

22 Redfaced (6)

25 Cosy retreat (4)

3 Who directed the films LadyBird (2017), Little Women (2019) and Barbie (2023)? 4 Winona Laura Horowitz is better known by what name?

VanderpumpRules was developed as a spin-off from which other US reality TV series? 6 Rachel McAdams (pictured), Lindsay Lohan and Amanda Seyfried star together in which 2004 teen comedy film?

7 ‘Come over to the window, my little darling/I’d like to try to read your palm’ are the opening lines of which song?

8 Spaghetti alla puttanesca, a pasta dish typically made with tomatoes, olives, anchovies, chilli, garlic and capers, originated in which Italian city?

9 What is the capital city of Peru?

10 MonkeyGrip, TheSpareRoom and The Children’s Bach are novels by which Australian writer?

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

Scottish Country Dancing Group

The Macedon Ranges Scottish Country Dancing Group meet every Thursday, 1-3pm, at Buffalo Stadium, Woodend. The dancing involves social country dancing, not the highland dancing many people think of. The group dance in sets, learning different steps and formations – no special clothes needed, just soft flat shoes. The group are a friendly group having fun and keeping fit at the same time. You don’t need to bring a partner, just a smile and sense of fun.

 Lynne, 0417 331 439 or Norm, 0408 592 609

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

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

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 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 St 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

CWA Woodend Eves

The CWA Woodend Eves Branch is part of the Central Highlands group and meets every third Tuesday at 7pm at the Woodend Golf Club. All women are welcome.  cwawoodendeves@gmail.com

Sunbury Badminton Club

The Sunbury Badminton Club plays social games on Tuesdays and Wednesdays nights, from 7.30-9.30pm, 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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Brian Campbell and his dog BB during a special Christmas party at Williams Landing dog park. (Damjan Janevski) 522006_05

Circus performers fire up

A circus spectacular is set to light up South Morang in January with exciting performances from fire acts to aerials and jugglers.

Rebecca Capener co-produces Cirque NouvellewithherhusbandJames,andsaid shelovesbringingcircustosuburbs.

“Bigger shows often miss them, so we always love to make the effort to get to thesecommunities…theyarejustsomuch moreappreciative,”MsCapenersaid.

Ms Capener said Cirque Nouvelle was made for all ages as a family-friendly, fun-packedshow.

“The fire is always a hit, not many people have seen it performed before, it has that dangerelement.”

Ms Capener also said the aerials are a fan favourite, because it is rare to see in theatres.

“We’re very lucky to be touring in places thatallowustodothat,“shesaid.

“Whether you’re young, old, or anything in between, it’s suitable for absolutely everyone,especiallyonschoolholidays.”

Ms Capener said the performance is more than just a variety show, but has a narrativebehindit.

“We take the audience on a journey following our ringmaster, who’s a bit stuck in his old ways and afraid of change, exploring how circuses have evolved over theyears.”

MsCapenersaidtheconceptcameabout

because change is something everyone battleswith.

“It’s also amazing to see the journey of wherethingsstarted,howwestillusethose foundationstoday.

“We didn’t want to put together a bunch ofactsthatjustlookamazing,wewantedit tohithomeforsomepeople.”

Ms Capener is currently 29 weeks pregnant, so will not be participating in the performance, but said she is excited to workbehindthescenes.

You can see Cirque Nouvelle at Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC)onWednesday21January.

Details: https://www.pracc.com.au/ Whats-On/All-Events/Cirque-Nouvelle

Local artists unite for festive exhibition

A festive exhibition is showcasing many local artists’ works in the lead up to Christmas.

The Buttlejorrk Artists Collective Pre-Christmas Exhibition is displaying colour, craftsmanship and creativity in theirannualgroupexhibition.

In its 49th year, the show brings together a vibrant mix of painting, sculpture, pottery, jewellery, textiles, woodwork and more, all made by local artists in the

MacedonRanges.

This year, the exhibition also welcomes guestsfromtheMacedonRangesPotters. Piecesarealsoforsale,withthecollective saying it’s a great opportunity to find some special Christmas gifts and support local MacedonRanges’artists.

Featured artists from the collective include Brandy Monteith, David Bowden, Deidre Chestney, Denise Martin, Fiona Webb, Jan Guest, Marg Altmann, Mim

Osmelak, Pam Jackson, Pat Beasley, Samantha Gardiner, Tim Meager and guestsfromtheMacedonRangesPotters.

The Buttlejorrk Artists Collective Pre-Christmas Exhibition is on until Wednesday 24 December at The Old Auction House, 52-56 Mollison Street, Kyneton. The Old Auction House is open everydayfrom10amto4pm.

The exhibition is free to enter, with the displayheldinthemaingalleryspace.

Catch the best of Barnesy on the green at Keilor

Locals looking for an afternoon of classic tunes, great food and good vibes can head toamusicfestivalinKeilorthismonth.

Keilor Bowls and Community Club will hosta‘dayonthegreen’event,whichissure to get local music lovers grooving along to thegreatestColdChiselandJimmyBarnes hits.

Keilor Bowls Club social media and community director Lisa Dillon said it’s theclub’sfirsttimehostingtheevent.

“We don’t have a lot of local music festivals…Hopefully we can make it an annualevent,”MsDillonsaid.

“We’re actually ripping up the green. If it getsdamageditdoesn’tmattertoomuch.”

The festival will be headlined by Soul Chisel,aJimmyBarnestributeband,which isfrontedbyKeilorlocalSteveCallanan.

Festive sparkle in Hillside

Hillside is set to shine with festive cheer as the community comes together for Twilight Christmas at HillsideonFriday19December. Running between 3.30-6.30pm at the Hillside Shopping Centre, the free family-friendly celebration promises an afternoon packed with colour,musicandChristmasmagic.

Shoppers and families can look forward to a special visit from Santa and Mrs Claus, who will be available for photos and meet-and-greets throughouttheevent.

Littleonescandancetheafternoon away at the Lively Santa Disco, while roving performers bring added energyandexcitementtothecentre’s outdoorspaces.

The event also offers the perfect opportunitytoembracetheseasonof giving by supporting the area’s local cafes and restaurants, with many eateries within the centre offering special deals just for the evening, making it an ideal chance to enjoy a relaxed dinner, a festive treat or a post-shopping snack while soaking upthecheerfulatmosphere.

Residents, locals, community members, visitors and everyone in between are being invited to gather their family and friends to make the most of the community celebration, which marks a highlight on the local festivecalendareachyear.

For those looking to immerse themselves even further in the Christmas spirit, a full line-up of seasonaleventshappeningacrossthe municipality can be found at www. melton.vic.gov.au/Out-n-About/ Events/Christmas-in-the-City-ofMelton, with regular updates shared via the Melton City Much More FacebookPage.

“It’sgoingtobeaneight-piecebandwith brassinstruments,”MsDillonsaid.

“We’re going to invite some other local talenttoentertaintoo.”

There will be food available to purchase aswellasfullbarserviceontheday.

“Come and spend a day on the green. Enjoy local music, local talent with the localcommunity,”MsDillonsaid.

TheKeilorBowlsandCommunityClub‘a dayonthegreen’eventwillrunfrom2-7pm on Sunday 21 December at 2 Mercedes Street,Keilor.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their ownchairsorblanketstositon.

Tickets are $50 per person with kids under16yearsofagefreetoattend.

Bookings: keilorbowls.com.au/ day-on-the-green

Christmas in Hillside, 2023. (Supplied)

Keilor Bowls and Community Club chairman Joe Watkins, Soul Chisel’s Steve Callanan and social media & community director Lisa Dillon. (Damjan Janevski) 519778_01

Cirque Nouvelle is arriving in South Morang this January, bringing a new evolution of circus. (Supplied)

Artist Sam Gardiner with her artwork on display for the exhibition.

(Damjan Janevski) 521407_02

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which Victorian soccer team defeated Marconi Stallions FC to win the 2025 Australian Championship?

2. Barbados-born fast bowler Jofra Archer plays for which national cricket team?

3. Jessica Stenson recently became the fastest Australian woman over what distance?

4. The Socceroos are currently set to play the US and which South American country in Group D of the 2026 World Cup?

After a dramatic race at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, who claimed the Formula 1 world title?

Which Canada-based WNBA team is Australian basketball legend Sandy Brondello set to coach in 2026?

Cameron Smith finished second to which Danish golf professional at the 2025 Australian Open?

8. Akech Aliir last played for which NBL club?

9. CanterburyBankstown Bulldogs will add what to the backs of their jerseys for their 2026 Las Vegas match?

10. College football coach Lane Kiffin is set to lead which team for the next seven years?

11. How many teams will participate in the 2027 Rugby World Cup?

12. Which three stadiums will host Men’s State of Origin matches in 2026?

13. In what year was tennis introduced as an Olympic sport?

14. Starring Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon, which sport is the focus of the 2009 film Invictus?

15. Which sporting brand is the long-term apparel partner of Football Australia?

16. How many years long was LeBron James’ recently broken double-digit scoring streak?

17. Which National League team was recognised by the UN as the world’s first carbon-neutral soccer club?

18. How old is the youngest player to earn an official chess rating?

19. What is the controversial motto for the upcoming Brisbane Olympics?

20. In a recent Ashes match at Optus Stadium, who memorably caught-andbowled England opener Zak Crawley?

21. Former Formula One driver Kimi Räikkönen is from which country?

22. In the NHL, the Sabres play out of which city?

23. How many metres can you run before the ball has to touch the ground in the AFL?

24. Who won the 2025 Bathurst 1000 race?

25. Which sport is the focus on the TV show Shoresy?

26. In which year did Melbourne Storm win its first premiership?

27. Tessa Virtue won Olympic medals in which sport?

28. And who was her partner?

29. Christian Brigham is the real name of which WWE wrestler?

30. Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey previously played for which AFL club?

A versatile family SUV

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Isuzu Ute MU-X is a seven-seat family SUV from a Japanese company that has a long history of producing hard working vehicles.

Indeed, Isuzu has a history dating back formorethan100yearsinlightcommercial vehiclesincludingacoupleofdecadeswhen they were sold here rebadged as Holdens.

The MU-X is one of only two vehicles offeredbytheIsuzuUtebrandalongsidethe D-Maxutilitywithwhichitsharesthesame chassis and numerous other components.

MU-X has been a major success in Australia. Sitting on the same platform as the brand’s D-MAX utility it’s currently sitting in second place behind Ford Everest and well ahead of other ute-based rivals such as Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and Toyota Fortuner.

Originally powered exclusively by a 3.0-litre, four-cylinder, common-rail turbo-dieselengine,a2024upgradetoboth MU-X and D-Max added the option of a 1.9-litre, turbo-diesel unit.

The smaller engine proved to be short-lived and it was replaced in mid-2025 by a new 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine that providedgreaterpowerandtorqueoutputs, lower emissions and greater towing capacity.

At the same time the chassis and suspension were upgraded along with technical and safety improvements.

A new flagship MU-X model called X-Terrain was added with the MY2025 update, joining the existing three variants: LS-M, LS-U and LS-T. The entry level LS-M is available with either two- or four-wheel drive. All others are 4×4 only.

Our test vehicle here was the X-Terrain. We’ll get into one of the 2.2-litre models early next year.

Styling

MU-Xisagood-lookingvehiclethat’saimed at those looking for an attractive vehicle that’s going to appeal to family buyers looking for something that’s more than an upmarket station wagon.

The bonnet is tall and slopes down at the outeredges.Thewindscreenhasapractical, relatively upright slope in that it doesn’t reach too far back and therefore keeps the sun off the driver and front passenger.

The roof stretches back so that it provides atallloadarea,againaddingtothepractical nature of this vehicle.

Two new exterior colours have been added to the MY2025 MU-X with Neptune BlueandSlateGreyjoiningtheprevioussix. Our test X-Terrain came with the exclusive Slate Grey.

X-TerrainaddsXTbadging,blackradiator grille, fender flares and 20-inch gloss black alloy wheels, lower body side skirts and highway-terrain tyres.

Interior

Inside, MU-X has an upmarket look as it’s aimed at those who want a quality family vehicle not simply an off-road machine. There’s excellent interior space for all occupantsineachdimensionwithtumbling second-row seats making passenger access to the third-row reasonably easy.

X-Terraingetsleatheraccentedseatswith red stitching, red ambient interior lighting and a 360-degree surround view monitor. Therearecupholdersinallthreerows,12 in total as well as 18 storage options.

Boot space with the third-row seats folded is 1119 litres, dropping down to a reasonable 311 litres with all seven seats in place.

All models come with full size spare

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10

Performance: 8/10

Safety: 8/10

Thirst: 7/10

Practicality: 8/10

Comfort: 7/10

Tech: 8/10

Value: 7/10

wheels, all bolted beneath the rear of the vehicle.

Steel in the LS-M and LS-U, alloy in the LS-TandX-Terrain.

Infotainment

The LS-M variant comes with a seven-inch colourtouchscreenandfour-speakeraudio.

Others get a nine-inch screen and eight JVCKenwoodspeakers.

Likewise, LS-M comes with a smaller (4.2-inch) driver’s instrument display compared with the 7.0-inch screen in LS-U, LS-T and X-Terrain. In bright sunshine we struggled to read the screen with light bouncingoffit.

Fortunately, there are two physical controls for the audio and some toggles below the screen to adjust the air con settings.

Embedded satellite navigation is only included above the LS-M Connectivity is by way of wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Engines/transmissions

The 3.0-litre four-cylinder common-rail turbo-dieselenginehasmaximumpowerof 140kWandpeaktorqueof450Nmfrom1600 rpm. Transmission is through a six-speed Aisinautomatic.

The new 2.2-litre drops to 120kW and 400Nm but gets an Aisin eight-speed auto transmission.

Safety

The Isuzu Ute MU-X gained a five-star safety when tested in September 2022. The subsequent upgrades in the past two years have added numerous extra features

as required by ANCAP to maintain the maximumscore.

Standard safety features across the MU-X range start with eight airbags including front centre and driver’s knee protection together with the mandatory stability and traction control and autonomous emergencybraking.

Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assist adds forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control with engine stop/start, traffic sign recognition, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, emergency lane keeping, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alertandbrakingandtrailerswaycontrol.

There’s also hill start assist and descent control, roll-over mitigation, post-collision braking, forward collision warning, mis-acceleration mitigation, intelligent speed limiter, driver inattention assist, rear cross traffic alert and ISOFIX child seat anchorsintheoutercentre-rowseats.

Rear parking sensors are standard in all variants but only the LS-U and above get front sensors. LS-T and X-Terrain also come witha360-degreesurroundviewcamera.

Driving

With its 235mm ground clearance, getting into and out of the MU-X X-Terrain can be challenging especially for occupants at opposite ends of the age range. Black sidesteps and grab handles at all doors do help.

As is the norm nowadays there are numerous safety settings that are accessed through the touchscreen. They are nowhere near as intrusive as many other, mainly Chinese vehicles, and can be turned off reasonablyeasily.

As is often the way with turbo-diesels MU-Xit’sabitsluggishoffthemarkbutonce it gains momentum it responds quickly. There’s strong mid-range torque delivering plentyofpullingpower.

Steering is on the light side, making low-speed manoeuvrers easier and providinggoodfeedback.

The vehicle turns in nicely and holds the path chosen by the driver without the need for small changes to keep it on the chosen path.

Keep in mind that you’re driving a 4WD not a passenger car but it is excellent in the waythatitrespondstoroadconditions.

The MU-X range is covered by Isuzu’s unusual six-year/150,000km warranty – most of its rivals have five years and unlimited distance. It does have capped price servicing and up to seven years roadsideassistance.

Fuel consumption with the X-Terrain as listed at 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres. We didn’t spend much time off-road and averaged just under 9.0 L/100 km. Pretty goodforsucharelativelylargevehicle.

Summing up

Isuzu’s stock-in-trade diesel power and genuine off-road ability have drawn consistently high sales numbers to the MU-X throughout the six years that it has beenontheAustralianmarket.

It’s well-priced, powerful and versatile, combining large and comfortable family transportwithgenuineoff-roadcapability. We have one in our family that spends mostofitstimeeithertransportingchildren around or using its 3500kg towing capacity tocomfortablypulladoublehorsefloat.

Isuzu Ute MU-X is a well-priced, powerful and versatile. (Pictures: Supplied)

The weather again played havoc on Saturday for local sports people but there was still plenty of action. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting some of the action.

Playing through a storm

Western Crusaders’ Tyson Garnham and Geelong’s Euan Spikers. 520090_76

Western Crusaders’ Dennis John Battistella Jr tries to break through. 520090_54

Western Crusaders’ Kalisitiane Lotulelei. 520090_74

Werribee’s Darren Hooper. 523147_01

St Albans’ Sammika Perera. 524045_23

Sunbury’s Jackson Treweek. 523161_01

Deer Park’s Jair McAllister. 524045_01

Keilor’s Mark Jacobsen. 523147_03

PEGS’ Maddumaage Tharindu. 523161_13

St Albans’ Sammika Perera and Joshua Hine. 524045_08

Appeal against Kyneton Women’s CVFL bid upheld

Kyneton Women’s Football Club’s playing future remains unclear following an AFL Victoria decision.

In a statement released last week, the club said AFL Victoria had upheld an appeal preventing the club from joining the Central Victoria Football League.

The club applied to join the CVFL and other leagues after an application to join the Riddell District Football Netball League was knocked back.

The Wedgetails were formed after a numberofplayerslefttheKynetonFootball Netball Club after “facing significant challeng.

After being knocked back by the RDFNL for the 2025 season, the playing group joined forces with Gisborne in the Essendon District Football League.

TheKynetonwomen’ssideisagaintrying to play as a standalone side this season.

In the statement, the Wedgetails expressed their disappointment at the

process in knocking back then joining the CVFL.

“ThisdecisionfollowstheCVFLissuinga formalletterofintenttoacceptKWFCafter the club successfully met all assessment criteria,” the statement said.

“Earlierthisyearandagainmorerecently, KWFCappliedtojointheRDFNL;however, both applications were unsuccessful. The mostrecentrejectionwasprovidedwithout

explanation or feedback.

“With no pathway available locally, the club explored alternative competition options and submitted an application to the CVFL.

“In accordance with AFL Victoria’s expansion policy, the CVFL notified AFL Victoria of its intention to admit KWFC.

“AFL Victoria then circulated this notice to all leagues. The RDFNL subsequently appealed the CVFL’s decision, and on Wednesday 10 December, CVFL advised the KWFC that AFL Victoria had upheld RDFNL’s appeal, preventing KWFC from entering the CVFL for the 2026 season.”

KWFC president Natalie Korinfsky said the outcome is disheartening and devastating for the club, adding that it has consistently met every requirement and demonstrated strong community support.

“We have complied with every process and expectation asked of us,” she said .

“To have our players once again left

Woodman’s big honour

By Tara Murray SunburytennisstarJinWoodmanreceived

a nice surprise when he woke up on Monday morning.

In America for a training camp and tournament, Woodman was half a world away from the Australian Tennis awards.

Nominated for a second straight year, this time for most outstanding athlete with a disability, Woodman would share the honour with Hunter Thompson.

“There were four other people in the runningandeveryonehadagoodchance,” Woodman said from America.

“I was praying before I left that I would win it.

“This [Monday America time] morning and looked at my phone and I had 10 notifications on Instagram.

“The first thing I saw was a photo of me for the Newcombe disability award. I was stunned.

“Icalledmyparentsandaskedifthiswas for real as I was half asleep.”

Woodman said winning this award was among the top three moments of his career so far.

The award caps off a year which has seen the 16-year-old become the number one ranked Australian quad player.

He has also moved into the top 10 in the world rankings for quad wheelchair tennis and he is currently second in the world in the junior boys rankings.

The year started at his home court at the Hume Tennis and Community Centre followed by his Australian Open debut.

He won his opening round singles and doubles match.

Woodmanthensufferedamajorsetback.

“It was a good start to the year and I was supposed to go to Korea and Japan,” he said. “I fractured my femur when I fell out of my chair.

“Then it was four to six months out of tenniswhichwasreallyhard.Iloveplaying tennis.

“It was then baby steps and I had to learn to hit a forehand and backhand again, it took a while.”

While Woodman thought it would take some time to get back into form, he made an instant impact.

In his first tournament back in China, he won both juniors and senior events.

There were some more strong results and he made the US Open senior draw for the first time.

His results were enough for him to qualify for the season-ending 2025 NEC Wheelchair Singles Masters.

“I didn’t think that I would make the top eight at the end of the year,” he said. “I was

ranked about 16.

“Each result got me closer. Being my first masters I wasn’t expecting much either as it’s the best of the best.

“I won my first game … I was super happy.”

Woodman said to have finished the season ranked at number seven exceeded all his expectations.

He was happy to be in the top 10.

With players up to 30 years older than him in the top 10, he said other players were starting to take notice of someone who is just 16.

Woodman will compete in the Orange Bowl International Championships to finish his 2025 season.

It’s the first time that wheelchair events will be held at the event. Woodman is the number one ranked boys competitor.

He’shopingthat2026willbeevenbigger.

“I’ve already qualified for the Australian Open and this time I’m hoping to go better than last year.

“I want to make at least three of the four slams, maybe all of them.

“Hopefully I can get to the top three in the world.”

without a confirmed competition, despite meeting all criteria of a league that accepted us, is extremely disappointing. Our priority is to provide our players with a safe, respectful and stable football environment, and we remain committed to achieving that outcome.”

The Wedgetails are now preparing a submission to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) seeking to have the decision reviewed and overturned.

The club has commenced fundraising to secure the required legal support and representation to support this submission.

“Our players deserve certainty and clarity about their football future,” Korinfsky said. “We will continue to pursue all appropriate avenues to ensure KWFC and its members are afforded a fair and transparent process.”

The RDFNL declined to comment.

AFL Victoria has been contacted.

Rymer takes on Bendigo role

Gisborne coach Tarryn Rymer will remain the Bendigo Netball League’s representative coach in 2026.

The league announced that Rymer will lead the open representative team having held the role the past couple of years,

Joining Rymer will be Jayden Cowling, who will serve as an assistant coach and form part of the squad’s selection panel.

TheleaguesaidthatCowlingbrings extensive experience and a deep knowledge of the game at the highest level, ensuring the team’s selection process and preparation are of the highest standard.

The re-appointments comes after the BNL didn’t field an open representative netball team in 2025 for Netball Victoria’s Association Championships due to player availabilityrelatingtoeligibilityrules for players aligned to the Victoria Netball League.

Headlining the open teams schedule will be an Interleague clash withtheOvens andMurrayon23May at the QEO, while the 2026 Netball Victoria Association Championships will remain on the team’s schedule pending player eligibility.

BNL general manager Tom King said they were delighted to have Rymer and Cowling back at the helm of their open representative netball team and can’t wait to see the team prepare for a 2026 schedule that includes the huge matchup against the Ovens and Murray.

Preparations for the squad have already commenced with a formal schedule including information on player nominations and trials to be announced early in 2026.

Tarryn Rymer. (Bendigo FNL)

Kyneton Women’s Football Club. (KWFC)

Jin Woodman also won the Victorian award. (Tennis Victoria)

Heelers continuing to build despite weather challenges

Hanging Rock has been hanging to get out and play some more cricket, with rain causing havoc in the first part of the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shields seconds.

Half of the Heelers first eight matches have either been completely washed out or not completed.

When they have gotten on the field, the Heelershavewonthreeoutoffourmatches.

Speaking before the weekend’s matches, secretary Nick Maxwell said the weather had been frustrating.

“There’s been a couple of rained out matches,” he said. “The ground was top dressed by the council at the start of the season.

“There were sandy patches. With the top soil it has become mud.

“With the amount of rain we’ve had in the 24 hours before games the last couple

of matches, the wickets were wet anyway.”

The side was able to get out on Saturday against Macedon.

The Heelers kept the Cats to 9-112 from their 40 overs.

Harper Shanahan was the pick of the bowlers with 5-12 off his eight overs.

The Heelers top order got the job done, finishing 1-113 in reply.

Leonard Vincent tp scored with 45 not out.

Maxwell said they had been happy with how things were tracking on field.

TheHeelersfirstandthirdXIsarebothin the top four.

Maxwell said the second XI was a little behind the eight ball, but were hoping for a good run after Christmas.

The top side is in a competition this seasonwhichhassometopgradesidesand third sides from McIntyre Cup sides.

Maxwell said they were facing a similar level of competition to other seasons.

Youthhasagainbeenthekeyfortheside.

“Most of our senior cricketers are between the ages of 17 and 22,” he said.

“Therewouldbenomorethan10cricketers older than 30,

“The age profile at the club is really exciting.”

Maxwell said the club’s all-abilities program also continued to go from strength to strength.

“It’s going well,” he said. “They only play every second weekend and they haven’t missed a game this season. “

Theclubalsohasastrongjuniorprogram.

“Our junior teams are also having a good season,” Maxwell said.

“Our under-13 and 15 boys teams struggled for numbers early but we have benefited from Lancefield not having

Sunbury fights back

By Tara Murray

Sunbury fought back well against PEGS to give itself a good crack at another win before Christmas in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Steve McNamara Shield.

It was all PEGS early at its home ground on Saturday after the Roar sent them in, with warm conditions.

PEGS openers both started well and lookedsetforsomebigscores,astheyfaced more than 200 balls between them.

The Roar was able to fight back and have PEGSat6-132whenrainandthenlightning halted play for the rest of the day.

“They started really well,” Roar coach Leo Italiano said.

“They were 1-100 at one stage. After tea the boys bowled really well and fielded really well.

“The game is delicately balanced.”

Italiano said the players came off for rain after 59 overs and once that stopped they were set to return to the field.

There was then lightning within 20 kilometres of the ground which brought play to a close early with persistent lightning meaning they couldn’t resume.

Indika Massalage and Zac Corcoran have two wickets each for the Roar so far.

PEGS will face about 11 overs on day two of the match, with Italiano saying the game was evenly placed at this stage.

“There’s still a long way to go in this game,” he said.

“They are a much better team than the ladder says. PEGS has a lot of fire power with the ball and a good unit.

“They should be a lot higher than they are.”

A win would take the Roar to 4-2 at the Christmas break along with a couple of washouts.

Italiano said they would have taken that at the start of the season, his first season in charge.

“My aim going into the season was to come back after Christmas and still be in the finals race.

teams in those age groups with some players coming from there.

“Our under-15 girls team have also had a great first half of the season with the girls really developing their skills and love of cricket under coach Matt Shanahan.

“Some of the girls also regularly fill in in the under-13 boys team and have also helped out Woodend for numbers when we have had a bye.

“We have had a number of girls selected in GDCA rep squads along with two of our under-15 boys.

“Our under-11 team have also had some excellent results. A number of them also help bolster numbers in our under-13 team.”

Tara Murray

Softball

Lightning halted play in the Sunbury Softball Association on Saturday. Two games were completed before the weather turned. The Goonawarriors beat the Outlaws, 12-4, while the Calder Dragons beat the Vixens, 7-5. Among the action was Ben Owens with a strong game at first base and Mohomad Latiff with an amazing catch that was deflected off Shane Trewin’s glove.

RDNL

Romsey has welcomed back a familiar face for next year’s Riddell District Netball League season.The Redbacks have announced that Kendra Vann will return to the club after a couple of years away. Vann had previously played a key role in the Redbacks defensive end.

RDFL

Diggers Rest has announced its first new signing for next year’s Riddell District Football League season. Jarryd Bonello is no stranger to the league having played with Wallan while he also brings Essendon District Football League premier division experience. “Jarryd knows the competition and brings strong clearance work, inside toughness, and excellent ball-winning ability,” the Burras said.

Bendigo NL

“If we finish well this week and bat well we will give ourselves every chance”

“To be 4-2 would be fantastic. It’s a lot harder to get into the top four than stay in the top four.

“It’s your spot to lose.”

The Roar’s second XI’s match with PEGS is also evenly placed.

Italiano said they weren’t able to have anyonegobigandpostagoodscoreasthey finished with 176.

PEGS is 2-22 in reply.

“We were 1-100 ourselves and then the wickets fell in the middle order.

“We could not find support for our captain Sammy (Fisher). We had three players make 40s, but no one else made double figures.

“They bowled really well. It’s a really even game.”

Sunbury will be in action on Tuesday night in the second last round of the T20 competition against the Druids.

Both teams have one win so far, so a win would help keep their finals hopes alive.

Two Riddell District Netball League guns are making the switch to Gisborne for next season. Charlee Duff-Tytler, who has played a key role in three Woodend-Hesket premierships, is a versatile goaler who can also swing into defence, bringing height and athleticism to the Bendigo Netball League side’s squad. Two-time reigning RDNL league best and fairest winner Tilly Shepherd is also crossing and will add to the defensive end.

AFLW draft

The AFLW draft was set to be held on 15 December, with the next crop of footballing stars receiving their dreams. Two Calder Cannons Jade McLay and Chloe Baker-West are among the names set to be in contention along with Kyneton’s Ella Jeffrey. With the draft being held after deadline, go to www.starweekly.com.au for all the latest news and see who has been drafted.

FOR MORE SPORT VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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