Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 4th August 2026
Dipping for dad
By Glenn Fisher
Voluntarily plunging into an ice bath, reservoir and the ocean in the middle of winter just once sends a shiver down the spineofmostofus–buthowabout70such dipsin70days?
That’s the challenge Sunbury woman Brigid Evans set herself as part of this year’s 40th anniversary of Daffodil Day on 20 August, a fundraising event to support life-saving cancer research and stand alongsidethoseaffectedbycancer.
And Brigid, 36, has a very personal reason for immersing herself in cold water 70 times as she edges closer to her goal of raising$7000forthecause.
On 18 August last year, her “incredibly fit and healthy” father, Les, suddenly died after battling through a bowel cancer diagnosis he received just before his 70th birthday.
There just has to be a better way. My goals in all this are to help research for better treatments and support -
Brigid Evans
Brigid was in hospital herself at the time,havingjustgivenbirthtoherandher husband’s first child, Melody, three days earlier.
“He had been declared cancer-free, but the chemotherapy treatment proved too harsh on his body, and he had a sudden downturn, then a heart attack after more gastro-intestinalissues,”shesaid.
An avid sailor on Lake Eppalock near Bendigo who also kept fit on a rowing machine every day, Les had also donated his plasma hundreds of times and, at the time of his diagnosis, wasn’t even due for his routine colonoscopy to check for bowel problems.
In the end, Brigid said, it wasn’t the cancer that took her dad’s life and she believestheharshconcoctionofchemicals aspartofhistreatmentwasamajorfactor.
“There just has to be a better way,” said
Brigid,whohasadoctorateinphilosophy.
“My goals in all this are to help research forbettertreatmentsandsupport.”
After launching her Daffodil Day quest with her first dip on 31 May, Brigid is due to notch up dip number 50 as StarWeekly went to press – dips that have included many 6C ice baths at Thrve in Sunbury, in the ocean down the coast, in Macedon Reservoir and during swimming lessons for herself and Melody at Sunbury Aquatic andLeisureCentre.
“I’ve found the ice baths good for my mental health and learning to swim has been a positive out of a dark period,” she said.
“Melody is such a livewire now, and she adds another layer into all this … dad only gottomeethisfirstgrandchildoveravideo phone call just before he passed, but I’m surehewouldbeproudofme.”
Asthe2026DaffodilDaydategetscloser, Brigid said she had some special dips planned for the last week, when she will take annual leave from her Disabilities Victoriapolicyandresearchrole.
A group of her close friends will join her on the weekend of 15 and 16 August for a dip in Macedon Reservoir, while mum Leonie – who recently moved to Sunbury fromBendigo–willbebyBrigid’ssideon22 Augustfordipnumber70atLes’sfavourite
sailingspot,LakeEppalock.
Whiletherewillnodoubtbetearsmixed in with the cold winter water of Eppalock when the final dip is done, Brigid says she will not be done – she not only plans to continue cold water dipping after Daffodil Day because of the health benefits, but has promised to also shave her hair if she reachesher$7000fundraisinggoal.
Donations to Brigid Evans’ 70 dips in 70 days winter challenge can be made at https://www.daffodilday.com.au/ fundraisers/brigidevans/daffodil-daydip-2026 and you can also follow Brigid’s 70-dip journey at www.instagram.com/ brigid_louise
Brigid Evans is dipping in cold pools and ice baths 70 times to raise money for Daffodil Day, in memory of her dad, Les. (Damjan Janevski) 566309_01
Long road ahead for council
By Glenn Fisher
There is a popular saying that the road to success is always under construction, and it’s certainly pertinent for Macedon Ranges council after the results of its 2026 Community Satisfaction Survey.
While council’s overall performance index improved by two points from last year to 51, unsealed roads and sealed local roads remain council’s two lowest-rated service areas with scores of 34 and 38 respectively. Now in its 28th year, the Local Government Community Satisfaction Surveys measure residents’ perceptions about the performance of their Local Government Authority across Victoria. JWS Research
conducted the survey for Macedon Ranges, with 400 interviews completed in 2026. Macedon Ranges’ overall result of 51 is on par with the Large Rural Council group average (50) but below the overall state average (57).
Councillors discussed and noted the survey results at last week’s meeting and took on board council community engagement lead Emma Sodamaco’s recommendation to incorporate the 2026 survey findings into council’s future planning, advocacy and budget processes.
Cr Jennifer Anderson said the integration of the survey results with residents’ submissions, budget reports and many other council proposals and projects was the
way to go, while Mayor Kate Kendall said the council needed to act on the report recommendations to address improvements, particularly in the local roads and consultation areas.
In eight core measures that JWS Research has tracked for the past 10 years, Macedon Ranges continued to rate well in waste management (70) and customer service (69), but ‘decisions made in the interest of the community’ was among council’s lowest-rated service areas (47) despite it being “the single strongest influence on overall perceptions of council performance” , the report says.
“Long-standing issues – especially roads, planning, and perceptions of deci-
Kangaroo count shows mobs moving in
Sunbury’s human population is continuing to grow at a rapid rate, with more and more outlying areas being taken up by new housing estates and other infrastructure. But that hasn’t stopped the local kangaroo population from growing.
Resident ‘kangaroo whisperer’ Robert Irvinehasjustreleasedtheresultsofhisannual Sunbury kangaroo count, with this year’s total of 694 an increase of almost 160 on last year and a big jump from the first count 10 years ago when about 300 were recorded.
Mount Holden again led the way in 2026 with 149 eastern greys spotted on the morning of the recent count, which has been held around the same time of the year since 2016.
Redstone Hill and Everley estates in Sunbury’s south recorded 130, while Emu Bottom Wetlands, Sherwood Grange, Burkes Hill and Wileman Road near Gap Roadd close to the Calder Freeway all returned numbers close to 60 this year.
“It does seem odd that as the Sunbury population increases, the kangaroo popula-
sion-making and consultation – continue to drag down overall confidence, leaving the organisation in a ‘slow recovery’ phase.”
Residents aged 35 to 49 were the most critical cohort in 2026. They were also among the highest-contact group – 69 per cent report having contacted council in the past 12 months – and rated council’s performance lowest in 15 of the 27 service areas.
“This cohort is a key target audience for council’s improvement efforts over the next 12 months,” the survey report says.
Women rated council’s overall performance highest in 2026 (54). East Ward residents improved most strongly, while South Ward and West Ward results were stable.
RSPCA issues bird flu warning
RSPCA Victoria is urging pet owners to take simple steps to keep their pets safe following a confirmed case of the highly pathogenic H5 bird flu in Victoria.
Speaking about the arrival of H5 bird flu in Victoria, RSPCA Victoria’s director of veterinary services, Dr Melissa Meehan, said the disease had killed millions of birds worldwide.
“The H5 bird flu strain is highly contagious and causes serious disease,” Dr Meehan
“This is highly concerning for our wildlife, with one in six Australian birds already facing the threat of extinction, and the animals in our agricultural industries, with poultry highly susceptible to the virus and dairy cattle infections reported overseas.
“The signs to watch out for are animals dying suddenly, appearing weak or wobbly, having seizures or trouble breating.”
tion continues to increase,” Mr Irvine said.
“But these results should be of no surprise to anyone.
“The pattern is consistent, so individual numbers of kangaroos are not as important as the trend showing a slight increase.
“Road kills or other loss (phalaris paralysis, when roos eat toxic parts of the introduced Phalaris (canary) grass) is not seemingly affecting the increase in breeding. Kangaroos continue to be attracted into Sunbury from outlying areas.”
While the risk is much lower, there are infrequent cases of dogs and cats contracting H5 bird flu overseas, usually following contact with sick or dead birds.
“To help reduce the risk to pets, RSPCA Victoria recommends keeping your dogs or cats away from wildlife as much as possible,” Dr Meehan said .
Follow Agriculture Victoria on Facebook for updates and check out birdflu.gov.au for information about the situation across Australia.
Moira Deeming quits the Liberal party
Western suburbs MP Moira Deeming has resigned from the Liberal party.
Ms Deeming, who is an upper house MP for the west, said she will sit with the crossbench as an independent for the remainder of the parliamentary term.
“My focus has always been, and will continue to be, on representing the needs and concerns of everyday Australians,” she wrote.
“I was elected to fight for freedom, fairness, and families. To save our state from endemic corruption, crushing debt, and the rising crime crisis, Labor has got to go. I remain fully committed to seeing that through. Thank you to those who have supported me.”
Earlier this month, the Liberal party voted to disendorse Ms Deeming as a candidate for the November election.
The MP had accused colleague and former party leader Matthew Guy of grabbing
her “violently” in a headlock, but since claimed she misunderstood the meaning of headlock.
Mr Guy told reporters in June Mrs Deeming owed him a public apology, adding he vehemently denied that anything untoward took place.
“Moira Deeming owes me a public apology. I’m owed an apology by the premier and the attorney-general,” he said in a statement outside parliament.
“They can come to me the honourable and easy way, or a harder way.”
Mrs Deeming had attempted to stop the party from voting to drop her as a candidate. She launched the legal action on 3 July, prompting the party executive to give an undertaking it would not take steps to disendorse until it was resolved. The legal action was later officially withdrawn.
– With AAP
Kangaroos in Sherwood Grange. (Damjan Janevski) 469971_06
Roo harvesting under fire
By Glenn Fisher
Macedon Ranges council will once again attempt to get answers from the state government about kangaroo populations and how kangaroo harvesting numbers are calculated.
At its July meeting, councillors debated a recent community petition calling on council to formally seek exclusion from the government’s Kangaroo Harvest Management Plan (KHMP).
The current five-year KHMP is due to expire on 31 December, 2028, with public consultation and a review of the plan set to occur at least 12 months prior.
A motion at the 22 July council meeting
– to remain in the Kangaroo Harvesting Program, but to encourage community feedback directly to the state government and notify the lead petitioner of council’s decision – was defeated, with the motion only garnering support from councillors Jennifer Anderson and Alison Joseph.
However, Cr Anderson successfully moved another motion, which included the above items as well as noting the KHMP review had not commenced.
The motion also requested the government provide an “evidence-based analysis of the Kangaroo Harvest Management Plan 2024-2028 demonstrating how commercial kangaroo harvesting under the program was sustainable and humane; and how future
proposed kangaroo harvesting numbers (if any) have been calculated”
Cr Joseph told the meeting there were so many welfare issues at play, from gunshot wounds, joeys dying in pouches, and the overall numbers being only a very rough estimate.
“Commercial kangaroo harvesting is about slaughter, not culling in particular areas,” Cr Joseph said.
Cr Anderson said she agreed that kangaroos caused problems on farms and that farmers utilised the kills through meat, skin and fur, but it wasn’t right to expand the harvesting program into areas where kangaroos weren’t a problem.
It has been more than three years since
Enduro prodigy ready to take on the world
Macedon resident Kogan Lock is on a fasttrack to enduro stardom.
After a stunning season trading blows with the nation’s best off-road talent in the Australian Enduro Championship, the gifted 19-year-old will now make his debut for Australia at the 2026 International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) in Portugal from 12-17 October.
Often referred to as the ‘Olympics of Enduro’, the ISDE is the longest running event on the international off-road motorcycle racing calendar, bringing to-
gether riders from across the globe for six gruelling days of competition.
Lock will compete in the Junior World Trophy for riders 23 years and under. His teammates will be Max Midwinter and William Dennett, with the trio to take on teams from enduro powerhouses like Italy, France, Spain and the United States of America.
“To be selected for Australia to compete in the ISDE is a dream come true,” said Lock, an apprentice electrician.
“But to be honest I was a little sur-
prised, as there are just so many lightning-fast Aussies under 23 years old competing locally and internationally.
“I was still 18 years old when I got selected, and I found out two days after a massive fire destroyed our family shed and everything in it – including my race bikes. The ISDE news lifted everyone’s spirits and, even though I’m heading to the event earlier than I expected, I’m going to put my best foot forward and embrace the challenge.”
Council workers rally at state Parliament as pay fight drags on
More than 1000 council workers, including those from Hume, Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, rallied at state Parliament last week as part of a four-hour strike.
Australian Services Union (ASU) members gathered on the steps of Victorian Parliament at noon on Thursday 30 July, and called for councils to put meaningful pay increases on the table without further delay and for new Premier Ben Carroll to enact rate capping reform promised by his predecessor, Jacinta Allan.
Multi-employer bargaining is currently underway across eight metropolitan councils: Melbourne, Greater Dande-
nong, Darebin, Hobsons Bay, Hume, Maribyrnong, Merri-Bek, and Yarra.
Staff at the eight councils have enacted work bans, including not collecting kerbside bins, in recent months as part of their ongoing industrial action.
Workers also held strikes in May and June.
The ASU is calling for a 10 per cent wage increase in the first year of the new agreement.Itsayssuchanincreasewould bring workers back to where they would have been if pay had kept pace with the cost of living over the past four years. The union is seeking a four per cent increase per year thereafter.
ASU Victoria and Tasmania branch secretary Tash Wark said the workers have “run out of patience”.
“These are the people who run our libraries, keep our parks looking great, care for older residents and keep our towns moving, and their pay has gone backwards for years while the cost of everything climbs,” she said.
Ms Wark said Mr Carroll should enact rate capping reform to ensure councils “have the capacity to fund local services properly and pay their workers fairly”.
The eight councils have repeatedly stated that they are are continuing to negotiate in good faith with the union.
council twice wrote to the government – and twice received no response – requesting a briefing on the review of the previous Kangaroo Harvest Management Plan 2019-2023.
The KHMP allows the authorisation of commercial kangaroo harvesting, which must be ecologically sustainable, humane, and only undertaken by authorised harvesters.
The Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research prepares an annual ‘Kangaroo Harvest Quotas for Victoria’ report with recommendations for quotas across five Harvest Zones. Macedon Ranges is in the Loddon Mallee Harvest Zone, with 14,950 Eastern Grey Kangaroos the zone’s 2026 quota.
New community centre named
Diggers Rest’s new community facility is set to be named the Diggers Rest Community Centre.
Melton council endorsed the new name at its 27 July meeting, with the proposed title set to be submitted to Geographic Names Victoria for final approval.
The new facility, expected to open in January 2028, is expected to provide a range of services for the growing Diggers Rest community, including Kindergarten facilities, maternal and child health services, and a library lounge.
Councillor John Verdon said the new community facility will help address gaps in Melton’s library accessibility around the municipality.
“This has been a very long-time advocacy piece for many members of the community,” Cr Verdon said.
“It will be the first of its kind in Melton and expand council’s library services further into the community.”
The naming process officially began in March, when residents were invited to nominate their preferred naming theme and suggest potential names for the building.
Linking name to place was ultimately selected as the preferred theme, receiving half of the 16 votes submitted during the first stage of consultation.
Five names were then shortlisted for a second round of community feedback, including : Diggers Rest Community Centre, Golden Sun Children’s and Community Centre, Volcanic Plains Children’s and Community Centre, Goldfields Community Centre - Diggers Rest, and Vineyard Road Children’s and Community Centre.
In 2026 Lock has moved into the senior ranks of the Australian Enduro Championship turning heads on his GASGAS EC450. (Troy Pears)
Students ready for market
Salesian College Sunbury is inviting the local community to support a new student-led market that is transforming classroom learning into real-world experience.
The Gatehouse Market Stall will provide Vocational Major (VM) students with the opportunity to operate a genuine small business, selling fresh produce grown on campus alongside a range of handcrafted products created by students across the college.
More than just a market, the initiative hasbeendesignedasanauthenticlearning environment where students develop practical workplace skills including customer service, communication, merchandising, financial literacy and enterprise, while building confidence through meaningful interactions with the
community.
Visitors can expect to find seasonal fruit and vegetables grown by students through the college’s Agriculture program, fresh flowers from Bosco Bloom and a selection of student-made products that showcase the creativity, craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit of Salesian students.
Program leader Marielle Caruana says the initiative bridges the gap between the classroom and real-world experiences.
“TheGatehouseMarketgivesstudentsan authentic opportunity to develop practical skills in a supportive environment while engaging with our local community,” Ms Caruana said.
Situated at the Gatehouse Café, the first market is on Thursday 6 August (9.30am-11am), and every Thursday for the rest of the term.
Briefs
Rego rebate
The state government has extended the application period for the 20 per cent vehicle registration rebate. More than 3.6 million Victorians have already benefited from this rebate, and now the government is ensuring even more families and workers can access cost-of-living assistance. The rebate, which can provide up to $186 for a single-car household and up to $372 for a two-car family, will now be available for application until 31 August. Victorians can apply for the registration rebate through the Service Victoria app or by visiting service.vic. gov.au/rego-rebate.
Census
As Census night, Tuesday 11 August, approaches the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is reminding everyone to check their mailboxes for instructions on how to participate. Most households will receive instructions to complete the Census online, with paper forms available on request for those who prefer them. Some households will receive a Census paper form in the mail or have one delivered by a Census field officer. These households will still be able to complete their Census online if they prefer. In this year’s Census, the ABS expects around 85 per cent of forms to be completed online.
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Housing emerges as Australia’s biggest economic challenge
Australia’s economic growth is expected to slow as lower house price growth weighs on consumer spending and broader economic activity, with CommBank economists saying housing is now expected to be a bigger drag on the economy than higher oil prices.
Speaking on the latest episode of the CommBank View: Economics & Markets podcast, CommBank Head of Australian Economics Belinda Allen said the shape of Australia’s slowdown had changed over recent months.
“We’ve certainly seen a shift in what’s going to cause the Australian economy to slow,” Allen said.
“We still think that’s going to happen, but it’s really the housing market that’s going to create that slowdown in the Australian economy, rather than higher oil prices.”
The slowdown in home price growth that emerged in late 2025 has now spread across Australia’s housing market, with weaker conditions for sellers evident in most major capitals. Allen said higher interest rates and policy changes had weighed on sentiment and prices.
“That combination of factors has seen the housing market pull back, and we’ve seen in past cycles that does impact the consumer through what economists call the wealth effect,” she said.
Falling home values typically make households feel less financially secure, encouraging them to save more and spend less. Allen said
that dynamic was now expected to be a key drag on economic growth throughout 2026.
Consumer spending is also showing signs of moderation.
Allen said CBA’s internal data suggested endof-financial-year sales activity had softened compared with the same period last year.
“There are signs that consumers are pulling back,” she said.
While household savings remain relatively healthy overall, Allen said weak sentiment and softer home prices were likely to keep consumers cautious through the remainder of the year.
Commonwealth Bank forecasts Australia’s economic growth will slow from 2.5 per cent in late 2025 to 1.5 per cent by late 2026, before improving to about 2 per cent by late 2027.
Despite the housing-led slowdown, Allen
said data centre development to fuel AI compute investment was creating important longer-term opportunities for the Australian economy. She cautioned that growth would be constrained by energy availability, water use and the time required to build new facilities, and that while it would help Australia’s economy, it was not going to fully make up for the slowdown in the consumer sector.
Year 10 Vocational Major students Chaise Abra, Thomas Upton and Will Power. (Supplied)
Track data boom with Wiki
Residents concerned about the rapid spread of data centres across Melbourne’s west have launched a new online tracker, saying communities deserve better access to information about developments plannedfortheirsuburbs.
The community-led Data Centre Wiki bringstogetherdetailsofexisting,approved andproposedfacilitiesmakingiteasierfor people to find out information on what is happeningintheirneighbourhoods.
The collaborative website has been modelled on Wikipedia and includes information on existing facilities across West Footscray, Brooklyn, Derrimut,
TAFE builder appointed
Residents of Sunbury can look forward to a new state-of-the-art TAFE campus, with Kangan Institute appointing McCorkell Constructions to build the $25 million facility.
Set to open in 2028, the campus will provideexpandedaccesstoskillstraining and job opportunities.
“We are investing in new TAFE campuses in Sunbury and Melton, both of whicharegrowthareas,sothatVictorians can get qualifications for in-demand jobs close to home,” Skills and TAFE Minister Colin Brooks said.
The Sunbury campus, designed by SpowersArchitects,willfeaturearangeof specialised training spaces. This includes areas for programs in high-demand fields like hair and beauty, digital technologies, education support, and vocational English.Thecampuswillhavethecapacity to accommodate up to 200 students at a time, with a student hub, adaptable classrooms, and breakout spaces.
Located close to the Sunbury town centre and public transport, the nearly 3000-square-meter campus will make skills training more accessible for local residents.
“Sunbury is growing quickly and its education and training options need to grow with it. Appointing a builder is a major step forward - bringing this new, purpose-built campus closer to reality and reflecting what the community has told us it needs,” said Kangan Institute chief executive Laura Macpherson.
“For many students, studying locally can be the difference between starting training and missing out. By bringing TAFE to Sunbury, Kangan Institute will make it possible for more people to build skills, confidence and careers close to home.”
Tullamarine, and those proposed or in the construction phase for Laverton North, Spotswood, Plumpton, Truganina, Cobblebank, Mickleham, and Campbellfield. Community members are also invited to contribute their own information, allowing the resource to be updatedasnewdevelopmentsemerge.
Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank said Data Centre Wiki was a practical response to the lack of publicly accessible information about an industry expandingrapidlyacrossthewest.
“Communities shouldn’t have to build their own information resource just to
understand what’s being proposed in their neighbourhood. But when people can’t easily find the information they’re looking for, they’ll work together to fill the gap,” he said. “The Wiki gives residents a place to share information and better understand the scale of data centre development in theircommunities.”
Mr Ettershank said residents had legitimate concerns about the pace of development and the lack of transparency surrounding the industry. “Most of the proposed data centres in Victoria are plannedforMelbourne’swest,”hesaid.
“Thesearemajorindustrialdevelopments
that can consume significant amounts of land, electricity and water, yet many local communities have had little opportunity to understand what is being planned or whatthelong-termimpactscouldbe.”
Mr Ettershank said he had spent considerable time chasing transparency around the proposed facilities. “For more thanayearI’vebeenaskingthegovernment how it intends to regulate this rapidly growing industry to protect communities andtheenvironment,”hesaid.
If you know where you’ll be on Census night, Tuesday 11 August, you can complete the form for your household as soon as you get your instructions. Complete online, on paper or with help from us.
An artist’s impression of the new campus. (Supplied)
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors
35 years ago
6 August, 1991
A tied vote in the poll for a Lancefield Riding seat on Romsey Council led to the winner being decided by a “ping ponglottery”.
30 years ago 6 August, 1996
Macedon Ranges council may spend nearly$1milliononsportanrecreation overthenext12months.
20 years ago 1 August, 2006
Opposition leader Ted Baillieu promised a $1.4 million, 24-hour ambulance station for Sunbury when hevisitedthetownlastweek.
Faces of the west
Each week, Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing the people and events across Melbourne’s north and west.
10 years ago 2 August, 2016
The sports communities of Sunbury and Gisborne are throwing their arms around the family of a young woman fighting for life after a car crash last month.
Di Dawe, Colleen Weste, Anne Boyle and Natalie Webb at The Gallery. (Damjan Janevski) 566318_03
Lions members Melanie Kinsey, Susie Lawrie and Robin Miller, and artists Lyn Hovey and Jarryn Pitts with a new mural at Lions Park in Riddells Creek. (Damjan Janevski) 567006_05
Residents living along Holden Road Diggers Rest are calling on Melton council for a permanent fix of potholes along the stretch of road. (Damjan Janevski) 566651_04
Terry Wells is with the Didyabringyarodalong Angling Club of Melton and Bacchus Marsh. (Damjan Janevski) 567313_03
Kerrie Gottliebsen with her posters art depicting western suburbs locations. (Damjan Janevski) 567209_01
Anirban Datta is an Aintree local who collaborated with his wife to direct their own cineplay, based on Shakespeare’s Macbeth tragedy. Jack O’Shea-Ayres spoke with Mr Datta about home life, what drew him to Aintree, and the challenges that come with directing your very own production.
What’s your connection to Melbourne’s north-west?
My wife and I bought our first home in Australia in Aintree after scouting several areasonthissideofVictoria.Welovedthe quiet and the peacefulness of Aintree, but westillfeelverywellconnectedtothecity. We simply fell in love with the area and knew we wanted to move here.
What do you like about where you live?
Aintree is a very peaceful suburb, yet we are still very well connected to the city, thewestandthenorth.Itoffersusthebest of both worlds, combining the peace and quiet of a growing family-friendly suburb with great connectivity to Melbourne’s CBD, the western suburbs and key destinations up north. It’s convenient, and allows us to enjoy a relaxed suburban lifestyle without feeling disconnected from the city or the wider metropolitan area.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
If there was one thing I could change about where I live, it would be improving thetransportinfrastructuretobetterkeep pace with the rapid growth of the area. Aintree has become a popular place to live, with more families moving into the suburb and surrounding communities each day, but the road network and major transport connections need to continue evolving alongside that growth. The
Melton highway needs more lanes and capacity to help manage the increasing traffic travelling through each day, and the Leakes road exit needs traffic signals for cars to be able to use the off-ramp.
Where is your favourite local place to spend time?
Woodlea Town Centre is one of my favourite places to spend time locally because it has become such a convenient and welcoming hub for the community. Whether I’m grabbing a coffee, picking up something to eat, doing a bit of shopping or simply catching up with friends and family, there’s always something going on.Ilikethatitbringspeopletogetherand gives residents a place to meet without having to travel too far from home.
Tell us about your recent cineplay, Kashmir? What was your role and what was most challenging about it?
I am the director of Kashmir. The most challenging part was to fit a classic like Macbeth in the political scenario of Kashmir. The real incidents that have happened in Kashmir is part of this play andalotofresearchhadtobedonetobring lifetotheproduction.Thechallengingpart was to make the soothsayer’s prophecy impossible to be achieved, yet a way was found for the predictions to happen through the course of the play.
Are you a photographer based in the western or northern suburbs who loves shooting sports and news?
Star Weekly is looking for new team members to join its pool of casual photographers. A driver’s licence, reliable car and photography equipment are essential. Experience shooting video is highly desirable. The role may involve Saturday work and after hours assignments.
Send your resume and examples of your work to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au
Shooting hoops for a for a cause
The Sunbury Jets Basketball Association’s Dohmen-Jolly round raised more than $4300 for charity acrosstworounds.
The Jets hosted its fourth annual Dohmen-Jolly round on Saturday 18 and Saturday 25 July, raising funds for WesternHealthinmemorySueDohmen andBrentJolly.
Over the two weekends, the association hosted a range of exciting on-and off-court activations at Boardman Stadium, and its Big V teams will donned new custom neon pink-and-blue singlets in support of cancerawareness.
Sunbury Jets’ Dohmen-Jolly round wasfirstintroducedin2022tocelebrate thelivesofSunburybasketballstalwarts Ms Dohmen and Mr Jolly, who both passed from cancer-related illnesses within three months of each other in 2021, leaving behind their three childrenNathan,Maddisonandcurrent
youthleaguemen’scaptainJack.
Jack was just 16 when his parents were both diagnosed with cancer. Both passedawayin2021.
“I’m really happy to see the Dohmen-Jolly round return this season,”Jacksaidbeforetheround.
“My parents played a big part in not only my basketball journey, but in the journeysofsomanyplayersfromacross theSunburyBasketballAssociation.
“My dad, Brent, coached across a number of age grades as I was growing up, and my mum, Sue, managed a numberofdomesticteams.
“We’re once again raising funds for Western Health Foundation’s Sunshine Cancer Services. The charity cared for both of my parents, and their support was invaluable at what was a really toughtimeforourfamily.”
If you would still like to donate, https://communityhub.whfoundation. org.au/sunbury-basketball-association
Jack Dohmen-Jolly with his Sunbury Jets youth league teammates. (Sunbury Jets BA)
Anirban Datta. (Damjan Janevski) 558695_01
Evidence that guides an intentional learning journey
Every student learns differently, and every student’s learning journey is unique. At Braemar College, we believe every young person deserves learning that is responsive to their individual strengths, interests and aspirations.
Achieving this requires more than great teaching alone; it requires teachers to have meaningful evidence that helps them understand where each learner is today and how best to support tomorrow’s learning.
Evidence is one of the most valuable tools in a teacher’s toolkit. It provides insights that enable teachers to identify strengths, recognise areas for growth and make informed decisions about the learning experiences that will best support each student.
Rather than relying on a single assessment or snapshot in time, Braemar draws upon a range of evidence to build a comprehensive picture of every learner, ensuring teaching is personalised, purposeful and responsive.
Many families will shortly receive their child’s NAPLAN results from this year’s testing. These reports provide valuable information and often prompt important conversations at home.
It is worth remembering, however, that the assessment data has already been available to teachers and has been used to inform classroom practice throughout the year. The reports families receive are not the beginning of the conversation; they are part of an ongoing partnership between home and school that supports each student’s learning and growth.
AtBraemar,NAPLANformsjustonepart of a broader evidence-based approach to teaching and learning. Through our partnership with Academic Assessment Ser-
vices (AAS), students also undertake nationally benchmarked assessments in the alternate years to NAPLAN. This provides continuity in measuring growth and gives teachers regular, reliable insights into each student’s academic development.
From the time a student joins Braemar in Year 5, teachers have access to six benchmarked assessment points throughout the student’s journey to Year 12. Rather than viewing these assessments as isolated events, we see them as part of a longitudinal picture that helps teachers understand
how students are developing over time. The assessments provide insights into reading, writing and numeracy, while AAS assessments also explore capabilities such as creative thinking and higher-order reasoning. Combined with classroom observations, day-to-day learning, student work samples and the professional judgement of experienced teachers, this evidence provides a rich understanding of every learner. Importantly, benchmarked assessments are not about defining students by a score or comparing them with others. They are
one of many tools that help teachers understand progress, identify opportunities for support or extension and ensure every student continues to grow with confidence. At Braemar College, evidence is never collected for its own sake. It is used thoughtfully to personalise learning, strengthen teaching and ensure every student is known, challenged and supported. This intentional use of evidence is one of the many ways we help young people develop the confidence, capability and character to thrive at school and beyond.
Prep Power! 100 Days of Super Learning!
Holy Trinity Catholic Primary School in Sunbury celebrated anexcitingmilestoneasitsPrep children marked 100 Days of School with a fun-filled “Prep Power! 100 Days of Super Learning!” celebration. The day reflected the school’s commitment to providing a nurturing and engaging learning environment where every child is encouraged to grow in confidence, curiosityandfaith.
The school’s youngest learners arrived dressed as superheroes, proudly wearing colourful capes, masks, crowns, T-shirts and other creative superhero accessories. The theme celebrated the many “superpowers” the children have developed throughout their first 100 days at Holy Trinity, including kindness, resilience, perseverance, confidence and a love of learning. Families embraced the celebration with imaginative costumes, helping create a vibrant and memorable atmosphere acrosstheschool.
Throughout the day, the Prep
children participated in a wide range of engaging 100-themed learning experiences. Activities included literacy and numeracy challenges, counting and creating with 100 objects, problem-solving tasks, superheroinspired art, STEM activities and opportunities to reflect on favourite memories from their first 100 days of school. Every activity celebrated the children’s growing independence while showcasing the strong foundations they have developed in reading, writing and mathematics.
The celebration highlighted the remarkable progress made by the Prep children during their first two terms at Holy Trinity Catholic Primary School. In just 100 days, they have formed meaningful friendships, establishedpositivelearningroutines, embraced the school’s values and become confident members of the school community. Theirenthusiasm,resilienceand willingness to challenge themselves have laid strong foundationsforfuturesuccess.
The day was made possible through the dedication and enthusiasm of the Holy Trinity Prep Team, whose commitment to creating rich and engaging learning experiences continues to inspire every child to reach their potential. Their care, encouragement and expertise ensure that each student feels safe, supported and empoweredtosucceed.
The“PrepPower!100Daysof Super Learning!” The celebration was a wonderful reflection of the vibrant learning culture at Holy Trinity Catholic Primary School. As the Prep children continue their educational journey, they do so equipped with the knowledge, confidence and “superpowers” to embrace every new challenge and opportunitythatliesahead.
Foundation students dress up to mark 100 days at school
Riddells Creek Primary School Foundation students have proudly celebrated their first 100 days of school!
To celebrate this special milestone, they came to school dressed in bright colours or as 100-year-olds, adding plenty of fun and laughter to the day. From colourful outfits to creative costumes complete with glasses, walking sticks, and grey hair, students embraced the celebration with great enthusiasm.
Over the past 100 days, they have embraced new challenges, built confidence, and settled beautifully into school life. They have integrated seamlessly into the welcoming community of Riddells Creek Primary School, building positive relationships with their peers, teachers, and the wider school community. Along the way, they have demonstrated our school values of Caring, Respect, Integrity, and Safety, forming lasting friendships, developing new skills, and growing as enthusiastic learners.
During their first 100 days, our youngest learners have developed strong foundations in Literacy through an explicit and systematic approach to learning. Students have been building their phonemic awareness, phonics knowledge, handwriting, and early reading and writing skills through engaging lessons that incorporate play-based and active learning experiences.
In Mathematics, students have been developing their understanding of numbers by counting to 20, recognising and describing basic shapes, comparing and measuring size and mass, and collecting, sorting, and interpreting simple data. Hands-on activities andreal-world learning opportunities have helped students build confidence and develop important problem-solving skills.
Our Foundation students have also en-
joyed learning with our specialist teachers in Physical Education, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, STEM, and Auslan. These experiences have encouraged creativity, collaboration, communication, and curiosity while providing opportunities to explore new interests and talents.
We are incredibly proud of everything our Foundation students have achieved in their first 100 days at school. Their enthu-
siasm for learning, willingness to embrace new experiences, and commitment to our school values have made for a wonderful start to their school journey. We look forward to seeing their confidence, knowledge, and love of learning continue to grow throughout the year as valued members of the Riddells Creek Primary School community.
Sanatorium Lake in pictures
Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski stopped by Mt Macedon’s Sanatorium Lake on a chilly morning last week to capture these pictures.
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the
foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in 's'.
12 Stormy (11)
15 Fully informed; performing at the right rate (2,2,5)
17 Doppelganger (4-5)
18 Strata (6)
21 Holmes’ companion, Dr – (6)
23 Fruit (5)
25 Carpentry tool (5)
28 Tenanted (3)
1 What type of animal is the South African Boerboel?
2 Which Williams sister is
In which South American city is the
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
Science Week
Celebrate National Science Week (15–23 August) on Thursday 20 August 10am-2pm at Macedon Ranges Further Education Centre (MRFEC) with a permaculture workshop and community lunch. Explore the principles of permaculture and how they can apply to your life and garden, then stick around afterwards for our community lunch. Free Event, RSVP required for catering purposes.
5428 3799, www.mrfec.net.au
Art to wear
Art to Wear in The Gallery is the feature of the Focus Room at the Gallery Mt Macedon until Monday 7 September. Ten textile artists, including members of The Gallery, will show knits, silks, felts, hats and much more. The public is invited to two Meet The Makers sessions. The first on Saturday 8 August and the second on Saturday 15 August 1-4pm. The Gallery is at 684 Mount Macedon Road, Mt Macedon behind the Trading Post, open Friday to Tuesday, 10am-4pm.
Sunbury Blue Light Discos run throughout the year at the Sunbury Memorial Hall for primary school-aged children. Established in 1987, the initiative is led by dedicated Victoria Police members and community volunteers, and are always looking for more volunteers to add to the team. The next disco will be on Friday 7 August from 6-8pm. The theme is Hollywood - dress as your favourite movie star, character or your best Hollywood Glamour. Tickets are $8. facebook.com/sunburybluelightdisco, sunburybluelight@gmail.com
Sunbury Badminton Club
The club plays social games at all times, with tournament and competition nights during the year. All are welcome to attend at Clarke Oval Stadium, 49 Riddell Road, Sunbury. Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday nights 7.30-9.30pm. Plus Wednesdays 10am-noon.
sunburybc@gmail.com
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
Toastmasters
Sunbury and Macedon Ranges
Toastmasters helps its members develop their public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7.30–9.30pm, at the Sunbury Community Centre, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org
Art group
The Woodend Art Group holds classes and workshops in the studios in the Woodend railway station complex. It also has a social Tuesday where members and interested people can come along in the morning, have a coffee and paint together in a social environment. Colin Robinson, 0407 426 252
Friends of Woodlands Historic Park
Help preserve Woodlands Historic Park and learn about its history by joining the Friends of Woodlands Historic Park. The group consists of volunteers, working one day each month in the park, on projects including plant propagation and revegetation, weed removal, litter control and other activities. Some members may
week’s photographer’s
also work in the park on projects at other times. Becoming a member of the group is easy and free, and is open to like-minded people who want to take positive action to maintain our environment. You must be 18 or older and enjoy outdoor activities. The friends group meets on the first Saturday of each month at the Parks Victoria depot off Somerton Road, Greenvale. Bevan, 0468 469 514, bevan@keepemail.com
Shuttles and pickleballs
Macedon Ranges Badminton Club is inviting residents to come and play badminton, or pickleball, or both at Macedon Community Centre. Badminton is played on Tuesdays from 7.30pm and Thursdays at 9.30am. Pickleball is played on Mondays at 6.30pm, Wednesdays at 10.15am and on Tuesday from 10am at the Romsey Recreation Centre. David, 0419 589 425, macedonrangesbadminton@gmail.com
Amateur radio club
The Macedon Ranges Amateur Radio Club meets on the third Saturday of the month at the Woodend RSL Hall, 32 Anslow Street, Woodend, at 10am. mrarc.org.au
Kyneton Badminton Club
Kyneton Badminton Club is a welcoming, fun and social group that plays on Mondays, at 7pm at the Kyneton Toyota
is of
Sports and Aquatic Centre, Victoria Street. All skill levels are welcome. kynetonbc@gmail.com
Sunbury Macedon Ranges Masonic Lodge
The group meets monthly on the second Wednesday of the month at 7pm, 73 Main Street, Romsey. New members welcome. Paul, 0479 127 476, Rob, 0428 260 647 Rotary club
The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Ball Court Hotel, 60 Macedon Street, Sunbury, from 7pm. sunburyrotary@gmail.com
Sunbury Ladies Probus Club
The Sunbury Ladies Probus Club meets at 9.45am on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Sunbury Football Social Club rooms.
Pat, 0433 789 754, Sylvia, 0417 170 142
Sunbury Combined Probus Club
The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 10.30am. Jo, 0410 834 272
Sunbury Men’s Probus Club
Join the Probus Club of Sunbury on the first Wednesday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling club at 10.15am. It’s a friendly mens group open to visitors and new
members, with a number of events held each month.
Lindsay Brown, 0405 177 478
Breast Cancer Support Group
On the first and third Tuesday of the month breast cancer survivors are invited to head along to the Gisborne Golf Club at 10.30am to take part in a breast cancer support group.
Lesley, 0484 691 226
Village Connect
Enjoy free coffee and cake while connecting with fellow Macedon Ranges residents 55 years old and older. Happening on Tuesdays and Thursdays at cafes across the municipality. mrsc.vic.gov.au/Live-Work/Older-People/ Village-Connect
Games Zone Sunbury
Get creative at the Sunbury Youth Centre each Wednesday, from 3.30-5.30pm. The free program is for people aged 12 to 18 years old, at 51-53 Evans Street, Sunbury. youth@hume.vic.gov.au
HarmoniX Vocal Company
The all-male singing group rehearses on Thursdays from 7-9.30pm, while the mixed choir meets on Tuesdays from 7-9.30pm. Both choirs rehearse at Dulap Wilim Hub, Leichardt Street, Sunbury. No auditions required. harmonixvcinc@gmail.com
This
choice picture
‘The Sacrifice of Farinelli’ writer/director Stuart Bruce and actor Matthew Da Via. (Damjan Janevski) 567823_01
Dreams come Mac
Fleetwood Mac fans will have the chance to relive the magic of one of rock’s most enduring bands when Gypsy - The Australian Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show returnstoStoney’sClubinMaddingey.
Following a sold-out previous performance, the acclaimed tribute act is set to bring its faithful recreation of Fleetwood Mac’s timeless soundtrack to thevenueforonenightonlyonSaturday29 August.
Known for authentic musicianship and soaring harmonies, Gypsy will perform a collection of the band’s biggest and best-loved songs, spanning generations of musicfans.
FeaturingthetimelesssongsofFleetwood Mac, Gypsy delivers a polished live experience built around powerful vocals, rich harmonies, detailed musicianship andastrongvisualpresentation.
have discovered the band more recently, the show promises an evening packed with familiar favourites and nostalgic moments.
The night also offers the chance to make an evening of it, with Stoney’s Club bistro openingfrom6pmaheadofthe9pmshow.
With the previous performance selling out, fans are encouraged to secure their tickets early for what is expected to be anotherpopularnight.
Gypsy’s return to Stoney’s promises another memorable evening celebrating the music, memories and enduring magic ofFleetwoodMac.
Go star gazing during National Science Week
Curious minds wanted! National Science Week returns to Museums Victoria in 2026 with a jam-packed programofevents.
Between Saturday 15 and Sunday 23 August, science-lovers are invited behind-the-scenes at Melbourne Museum, Scienceworks and IMAX Melbourneforexperttalks,hands-on workshopsandeye-openingtours.
“The room was full, the energy was incredible, and everyone made us feel completely at home. We’re genuinely excitedtoreturn.”
Whether Fleetwood Mac has been part of your musical journey for years or you
Gypsy – The Australian Fleetwood Mac Show will take place at Stoney’s Club, 59 Grant Street Maddingley, on Saturday 29 August.
A powerful new Australian rock opera will make its full theatrical debut in Macedon inAugust,withtheMountPlayersbringing After-Light to the stage for the first time in itscompleteform.
The production follows a successful preview at the 2024 Melbourne Fringe Festival, where members of the Mount Players committee first saw a condensed version of the work. After discussions with composer Zac Vanstone and creator and musical director Tom Foster, Mountview Theatre was chosen to premiere the full-scaleproduction.
Blending contemporary theatre with
progressive rock, After-Light features a seven-piece live band performing on stage alongside the cast, creating an immersive theatricalexperience.
The original production follows Boy, whomustconfrontthemistakesofhispast while trapped in a life-threatening coma.
As he battles addiction, paranoia and depression, he is forced to face his inner demonsandfindforgivenessifhehopesto awaken.
Vanstone said the work, which was written during the COVID-19 pandemic, explores themes of loss, healing and redemption.
“This is a show about learning how to let go,”hesaid.
“Following the break-up between Boy and Girl, Boy falls into a life-threatening coma. In order for Boy to wake, he must forgive the past, reconcile with the future andlearntoletgoofGirl.
“If Boy fails, his intrusive thoughts of addiction, paranoia and depression will consumehissoul.”
After-Light will be performed at Mountview Theatre, Smith Street, Macedon, from 14 to 30 August. Tickets are available through the Mount Players websiteorbycalling0419329052.
Barry’s brilliant apocalypse is coming to Footscray
After more than 20 years in development, Melbourne playwright Adrian DÁprano will finally bring his show, ’My Brilliant Apocalypse’, to the stage in Footscray next week and it sounds like he couldn’t have timeditmuchbetter.
Withbellicosebillionairesthrowingtheir weight and wallets around with increasing abandon, DÁprano said audiences would instantly recognise the play’s central character,theboof-headAussiebillionaire, BarryBrilliant.
“He’s a bit like the Aussie Trump,” D’Aprano said, adding that there was a touch of Clive Palmer and the late Kerry
Packerinthecharactertoo.
Whileinvokingthesenames-particularly that of the current occupant of the White House - might be an instant turn-off for some,D’Apranosaidthosewereexactlythe typeofpeoplewhoshouldcome.
“My Brilliant Apocalypse series gives Barry hell,” he said. “In part one he goes fromrichestoragsandendsuphomelesson thestreetswithoutanidentity.“
“Our 13 person ensemble brings to life howapersonlikeBarrydealsordoesn’tdeal withlosingeverything.”
Describing his creation as “a five part series with a Dickensian Christmas satire
spin-off,” D’ApranosaidBarrywasvariously hero,pawn,sageandspiritashejourneyed through life searching for meaning and purpose.
Heurgedaudiencestocomealongforthe ride.
“It’s a funny, fast-paced exploration of whatitistoexist:withinyourself,withinthe knownuniverse,orperhapsevenwithinan alternative universe that lives in someone else’shead!”
My Brilliant Apocalypse is on at the Bluestone Church Arts Space from 7-9 August. Tickets: https://www. mybrilliantapocalypse.com/tickets
As part of this annual celebration ofscienceandtechnology,Museums Victoria will showcase the work of its vital Research Institute, where scientists are actively decoding the natural world, from biodiversity and space science to deep-sea exploration.
With one of the nation’s largest museum-based scientific teams, the Museums Victoria Research Institute plays a crucial role in advancing discovery and shaping our understanding of life on Earth andbeyond.
This year’s National Science Week education theme is Seeds of Science: NurturingKnowledgeforAll,inviting students and the wider community toexplorethepowerofcuriosityand scientificinquiry.
Melbourne Museum is sowing seedsandnurturingknowledgewith two on-theme events: The Secret Life of Soil, an engaging panel talk about the microscopic organisms that shape healthy soil, featuring Gardening Australia’s Hannah Maloney; and Creative Lab: Seed Stories, a 45-minute workshop in which participants will investigate soil as a living system, select native seeds, and plant something meaningful to take home and continuecaringfor.
Science on Show is the place for visitorstoaskanyburningquestions, as they meet the scientists behind the Museum. Through pop-up talks, displays, and rarely seen specimens, visitors will gain insight into how MuseumsVictoriaResearchInstitute experts reveal hidden stories –from ancient fossils and deep-sea creatures to shimmering minerals andendangeredspecies.
While every week is science week at Scienceworks, the focus turns to the stars with a special Galileo Planetarium experience in collaboration with the Italian AustralianFoundation.
Guests will step into the Planetarium for an?engaging one-hour session that introduces Galileo’s life and historical context, then explores his key discoveries— such as the moons of Jupiter, the phases of Venus, sunspots, and the ruggedsurfaceoftheMoon.??
Through immersive visuals and storytelling, discover how Galileo’s groundbreakingdiscoverieschanged our understanding of the universe. Stick around for gelato, pop-up activities and telescope viewing on ourArena(weather?permitting).?
No visit to Scienceworks is complete without Colour: See the World in a New Light, an interactive science exhibition from Questacon, featuring 21 playful exhibits that explore how colour is created, changed and understood. Visitors of all ages can experiment with colour, optics and light in this immersive exhibitionforthewholefamily.
Gypsy – The Australian Fleetwood Mac Experience is returning to Stoney’s Club on Saturday 29 August. (Supplied)
Back from left: Harry Dwan, Lewis Corry-Thomas, Tim Curruthers, Maisie Taylor, Timothy Allan, Craig Lenaine-Smith, Tom Foster and Lorretta Quinn. Front from left: Tenere De Zylva, Leigh Johnson, Andre Vikas, Jules McCarthy and Sandi Garcher. (Karlana Santamaria)
Packaged Liquor Licence Application
Any person may object to the grant of this application on the grounds that:
•It would detract from, or be detrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises are situated, and/or
•It would be conducive to or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol.
An objection must state the reasons for the objection.
All objections are treated as public documents. Objections must be made in writing to: Liquor Control Victoria GPO Box 4356 Melbourne VIC 3001
Objections must be made no later than 30 days after the date of this notice.
SPORTS QUIZ
1. With the nickname ‘Pogi’, which Slovenian cyclist won the 2026 Tour de France?
2. The governor of which US state proclaimed July 24, 2026 as ‘LeBron James
3. Teams including the Blaze, Talons and Volts play what sport in the US's AUSL?
4. The Commonwealth Games (then known as the British Empire Games) were first held in which
Mayo defeated which Gaelic football team in the 2026 All-Ireland Senior Football Championship final?
Australian all-rounder Ash Gardner last captained which Women’s Big Bash League team?
The 2026 WNBA All-Star Game was held in which US city?
Finnie, the official mascot of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, is what type of legendary creature?
9. Which two Australian states will host AFL State of Origin matches over the next three years?
10. Which game involving dropping sticks into running water under a bridge was first mentioned in a book by A. A. Milne?
11. Which four teams competed in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals?
12. In what year will the next FIFA Women’s World Cup take place?
13. And where will it be hosted?
14. How many stages are there in the men’s Tour de France?
15. And how many days are the stages held over?
16. Which country in the 2026 Commonwealth Games has the highest population?
17. Which three basketballers feature on the covers of NBA 2K27?
18. Cathy Engelbert is the commissioner of which US sporting league?
19. What was significant about the John Isner vs. Nicolas Mahut match at Wimbledon 2010?
20. Rollin’(AirRaidVehicle) by Limp Bizkit was the entrance theme for which professional wrestler from 2000 to 2002?
21. In which sport might someone achieve a ‘turkey’?
22. Which teenager did CIES value at €358M post the 2026 FIFA World Cup, making him football's most expensive player?
23. Blernsball is a fictional sport from which TV show?
24. And which sport is it based on?
25. Madison Square Garden is home to which two professional sports teams?
26. Which footballer was responsible for the infamous ‘Hand of God’ goal in 1986?
27. In lawn bowls, what is the name of the smaller ball that players try to roll their bowl closest to?
28. In which sport will referees call a ‘delayed penalty’?
29. AFL team Greater Western Sydney shares its nickname with which MLB team?
30. True or false: swimming is featured in the modern pentathlon event at the Olympics?
Limp Bizkit Bizkit
Lebron James
Hyundai’s first build in China
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
Koreans don’t get to drive the Hyundai Elexio.
They get the Kia equivalent instead – the EV5.
Built in China, it’s the first Hyundai to be manufactured outside of South Korea, no doubt in an endeavour to reduce costs and makethecarmorecompetitive.
It’s a made-up name, created especially for the five-seat EV and means nothing in particular – in fact it has been renamed Eo fortheChinesemarket.
Styling
The styling brings to mind the third generation Kia Soul, particularly those Z-shapedrearpillarsandtailgate.
The eye-catching headlights incorporate eightcrystalcubes,supposedlyanodtothe luckynumber8inChineseculture.
There’s just the one grade so far, the front-wheel drive Elite priced from $59,990 driveaway.
Arange-opening,entrygradeisexpected to be added before the end of the second quarter–that’scar-speakforacheaperone.
Elexio, we’re told, is a family-focused, perfectlysizedEVthatispackedwithsmart features, showcasing a futuristic style inside and out with a sleek, minimalist layout.
Generous interior space combines with intuitiveconvenienceanddriverassistance technology to provide a practical and desirableall-electricSUV.
“As the first vehicle exported from our Beijing Hyundai joint venture, it demonstrates how we are leveraging our global manufacturing capabilities to deliver exceptional value to customers,” HyundaichiefexecutiveJoséMuñozsaid.
That may be so, but the size and placementofthelargeinfotainmentscreen isconfronting.
Thelong,skinny27-inchscreenstretches from the centre of the dash away from the driver, terminating in front of the passenger.
How this can be described as ‘practical’ is eminently debatable. It does, however, facilitate the operation of several arcade-style games that can consume the entirescreenwhenopened.
That said they can be played only when the car is stationary and presumably in Park.
After a few minutes the kids quickly lost interest.
The bone-coloured upholstery in our test vehicle is not what we’d call family friendly either.
Sitting at the base of the windscreen, a new-generation, projector-based head-up displayreplacesaconventionalinstrument cluster.
With a 30,000:1 high contrast ratio, readability should be exceptional in any lightingconditions.
But like the head-up displays of other manufacturers it is almost totally invisible to anyone who wears polarised sunglasses. When are they going to recognise and address this issue (or is the problem that it cannotbefixed)?
Elite features the usual assortment of features, including dual-zone climate air, partial leather trim, power-adjust driver and passenger front seats that are both heated and cooled, plus a heated leather steeringwheel.
There’s also automatic parking using the smartkey,autohighbeam,LEDlightsfront
and rear, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, auto lights and wipers, auto dimming rear-view mirror, front, side and rear parking sensors and a power operated tailgate – but oddly no sign of a sunroof.
Elexio is covered by a seven-year/ unlimited kilometre warranty, with eightyear/160,000km cover for the high-voltage battery.
Infotainment
Elexio introduces Connect-C based on the fullAndroidAutomotiveOperatingSystem.
Infotainment consists of the aforementioned 27-inch 4K screen, together with Bluetooth, voice recognition, navigation, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, wired and wireless CarPlay and AndroidAuto.
Surprisingly, however, audio is supplied byanunbrandedsix-speakersoundsystem.
There are also two wireless charging pads and five USB-C ports (three in front), Bluelink connected car services with five-year complimentary access, plus over-the-airupdates.
A Smart Scene system underpins convenience and comfort with rapid heating/cooling, camping, carwash and babyrestmodes.
A 240 volt three-pin power outlet is located in the luggage area for powering externalequipment.
Safety
Elexio has been awarded a fullfivestarsfor crashsafetybytheANCAP organisation, based on testing of the closely-relatedKiaEV5.
There’s a total of nine airbags, with rear side thorax airbags and a centre airbag that gives added protection to front seat occupantsinsideimpactcrashes.
A comprehensive suite of Advanced DriverAssistanceSystems(ADAS)includes second-generation Collision-avoidance Assist2,HighwayDrivingAssist2andLane FollowingAssist2technologies.
There’s also Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User and Junction and Crossing, and Backover) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist, lane departure warning and emergency lane keeping, blind-spot collision avoidance-assist, and an advanced speed assistance system with aspeedsignrecognition.
Powertrain
Elexioispowered bya single electricmotor with 160kW of power and 310Nm of torque,
with drive to the front wheels via a single-speed reduction gear transmission (the electrical equivalentofaCVT).
Driving
Built on Hyundai’s dedicated 400-volt E-GMP platform, the five-seat, front-wheel drive EV tipsthescalesatahefty2105kg.
It measures 4615mm long, 1875mm wide and stands 1673mm high, with a 2750mm wheelbase.
RATINGS
Looks: 7
Performance: 7
Safety: 8
Thirst: 7.5
Practicality: 8
Comfort: 7
Tech: 7.5
Value: 7
Overall: 7.4
Luggage capacity is 506 litres, expanding to 1540 litres with the rear seats folded.
A tyre repair kit is provided in the event ofapuncture.
Running your hands over the cabin surfaces reveals some hard plastics, but thankstocleverdesign–nothingisdirectly inlineofsight.
Although the lower console area provides plenty of storage for loose items, two cupholders and two phone chargers dominate the upper area, leaving little spaceformuchatall.
This is Hyundai’s first BEV to use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) rather than Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (NMC) technology,withalargish88.1kWhbattery pack.
With energy consumption cited at 18.2 kWh per 100km, range for the Elite grade with20-inchwheelsisaclaimed546km.
A heat pump reduces the amount of energy required by the air conditioning, helpingtoextendtherange.
Charging at a rate of up to 150kW using a DCfastchargertakes38minutesfrom10to 80percent(that’s70percentor382km).
AC charging at a rate of up to 11kW with three-phase wall charger takes 10 hours from zero to 100 percent (15 hours with standardsinglephase).
Like other Hyundais, the ride and handling have been tuned for Australian roadconditions.
This one rides on 20-inch wheels, with 255/45 profile Kumho Ecsta rubber, sacrificing16kmofrange.
The ride is on the firm side, but infinitely preferable to some of the soggy fortune cookieswegettodrive.
Eco, Normal, Snow and Sport drive modes are provided, along with paddles to modulate the effects of regenerative braking.
While the Elexio goes well, it lacks the
excitement that we have come to associate with EVs, especially acceleratingawayfromthelights. Atthesametime,itistargetedat families,sothisisunderstandable. Thescreenfeaturesarearranged version of the panels found in otherHyundaimodels.
Instead of climate control, a small5.0-inchsectionisdevotedto driver information and is located withineasysightattheendclosest tothedriver.
A 12.3-inch middle section is occupied by Android Auto when it is active while another 12.3-inch section furthest from the driver handles the entertainment – at least that’s the way it looks.
Just about everything is controlled from the screen, which can be challenging when you’re in a hurry or simply on the move.
It supports hidden voice-activated tools like horoscopes, calculator, unit converter, currency exchange, date/time in other cities,andflightstatuschecks.
Using what is known as NFC technology, the car can be opened and started using a mobilephone,inthesamewaythatonecan payforthingswithaphone.
There’s no tailgate release in the cabin, but you can ask Google to ‘open tailgate’ –butnotcloseit.
The sound system, though unbranded as noted previously, delivers quite good sound.
In a minor glitch, the tyre pressure monitoring system reported there was a problem with one of the tyres the entire timewehadthecar.
But the system showed all tyres with a pressure of 34 psi and a visual inspection revealed none of the tyres appeared to be low.
Ratedat18.2kWh,weclockedupbetween 14.9 and 16.7 kWh/100km over the course of the week and almost 300km of mixed driving, with the trip computer showing a long-term average of 18.2kWh/100km after morethan2600km.
Summing up
Not sure what it is about the Hyundai Elexio,butwedidn’twarmtothismodel. The ice cube headlights are pretty cool and the car is certainly practical enough, evenforanEV.
Performance is middle of the road but that’s okay for a family-focused wagon, it just lacks some character – some Soul perhaps.
Hyundai Elexio is practical enough, even for an EV, but performance is middle of the road. (Pictures: Supplied)
Locals do Australia proud
By Tara Murray
It was a successful Commonwealth Games for Australia, with the sporting action wrapping up on Monday, Australian time.
The Australians topped the medal tally with 171 medals.
There were 70 gold medals, 45 silver and 56 bronze medals won by Australian athletes.
For the locals, there were some mixed results.
Keilor Thunder’s Lara McSpadden won gold in the women’s 3x3 basketball.
The Australian team went through undefeated despite being a player down in the finals, with Emma Clarke injured.
Taylors Lakes’ Jacob Cassar and Resilience Training Centre’s Aoife Coughlan both won silver medals.
Cassar made the final of the 65 kilograms men’s boxing event, but couldn’t get over the line in the gold medal match.
The 19-year-old said it was an amazing feeling.
“Asanathlete,I’malwaysgoingtowant gold, but I’m very proud to be 19-year-old and coming home with a silver medal for my country, my team, family, friends and supporters.”
Coughlan was looking to defend her title in the 70 kilograms women’s judo event
She fell short in the gold medal fight and was awarded silver.
Her Resilience Training Centre
teammates Tinka Easton and Danny Vojnikovich both lost bronze medal matches, while Maeve Coughlan was knocked out in the repechage.
It was bittersweet for the Australian Diamonds who won bronze.
After losing the semi final to Jamaica, 46-45, the Diamonds, including former
City West Falcons Liz Watson and Kate Moloney, bounced back in the bronze medal match to beat England, 68-50.
Uneeq Palavi led the Tongan side to ninth spot despite dislocating her finger in the first game.
On the track, Linden Hall, who grew up in Riddells Creek, finished fifth in the women’s 5000 metres.
Peter Bol, who lives in the 3032 postcode, faded in the men’s 800 metres
final to finish seventh.
Brimbank’s Chris Mitrevski finished fourth in the men’s long jump, six centimetres outside the medals.
Bundoora’s Tara Kinder made three finals in the pool in a massive program that included five events.
Her best finish was fifth.
Onthebowlinggreen,DeerParkClub’s Aaron Teys and Corey Wedlock missed out on finals in the men’s pairs.
Winter sunshine as sporting action heats up
It was another big weekend of sporting action in Melbourne’s north-west. Star
Weekly photographer TIES URIE was out shooting some of the action.
Albanvale’s Jovian Goulton and Braybrook’s Joshua Cassar. 568974_13
Melton Centrals’ Jordan Davis. 568969_16
Melton Centrals’ Imogen Sexton puts up a shot. 568967_01
Albanvale’s Jovian Goulton and Braybrook’s Joshua Cassar. 568974_13
Lara McSpadden (left) with her gold winning teammates. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch)
Ryan’s new coaching role
By Tara Murray
Michael Ryan is excited for the challenge of stepping into the Macedon Ranges Rockies women’s coach for the Country Basketball League season.
Ryan coached the men’s side since its inception but will transition over into coaching the women’s program this year.
“It had been a bit of a plan to transition Zac Voigt into the men’s head coaching role,” he said.
“With Stacey [Stewart] stepping down I put my hat into the ring. I’m fortunate to get the opportunity.
“I’m excited for Zac as he’s more than capable of getting to lead his own team now, and I’m excited for my role.”
While the men’s side has been around
the finals mix most seasons, the women’s team hasn’t quite had the same results.
The men’s side made the grand final last season.
Ryan said they wanted to bring some success to the women’s program.
The side won one game in the north-west division last season, after winning their first ever matches the previous season.
“We’ll look to recruit and find some more players to be more competitive,” Ryan said.
“We’ve traditionally been a young team and some of those players are a bit older now so that will help.
“We’ll look to find some more experienced players to help the group and mentor the younger players as well.”
The Rockies will have trials in the coming weeks and are hoping to get some good numbers.
Ryan said he was hoping to bring what had worked with the men’s program across the women’s program.
“We want to replicate that model,” he said. “We want to set the group up for sustained success.
“This season we’ll see where we are at.
Lions upset Burras and head towards finals
By Tara Murray
The Sunbury Lions made it three wins on the trot and all but sealed their Ballarat Football League finals spot, with a win against ladder leaders Sebastopol.
Having beaten the Burras earlier in the season at home, the Lions faced a tougher challenge on Saturday at Sebastopol.
The Lions started well and it was a case of hanging on as the Burras came home hard late.
The Lions did enough as they won, 13.16 (94)-13.13 (91).
“It was a big win up there against the top side,” Lions’ coach Matt White said.
“It was nice to be able to hold on at the end and even better to get off to a flier and we have a bit of momentum going.”
While the Lions were able to get off to a good start, White said it could have been even better had they kicked straight.
They kicked 5.5 in the first quarter as they led by 32 points at the first break.
“We had different guys not able to hit the scoreboard properly as we couldn’t make the most of it,” White said.
“The wind did play a little bit of havoc to the bike track end. It was a tail of two different halves with the wind.”
Having had the wind the second time in the third quarter, the Lions led by 34 points heading into the final quarter.
The Lions kicked just one goal for the final quarter against the wind and that was enough to ensure they got the four points.
“We were able to withhold them in the last,” White said.
“We were really really happy with that.”
Jake Egan in his first game since round 15 for the Lions dominated up forward as he kicked seven goals in a best on ground performance.
White said the reigning league best and fairest winner could have had a much bigger day out.
“For Jake Egan to come back in and have 15 shots on goal for the game was massive,”
“There’s a very strong under-16 VJBL [Victorian Junior Basketball League] Rockies team. They aren’t ready this year, but we want a pathway for them to aspire to in the coming years.”
Ryan, who coached the Sunbury Jets Big V youth league women’s side this year, said many of those players would be eligible for the Rockies.
He said he would love to see some of those players try out and give some of those players more of an opportunity and further develop their skills for the future.
The Rockies CBL tryouts will be hosted on 16 and 23 of August.
The season is set to kick off in October and run to December.
The Sunbury Jets youth league boys grand final hopes ended on Saturday night in the youth league 1 men’s competition.
The Jets, who had a bye in week one of the finals, were at home on Saturday night in the semi finals, with a win against the Camberwell Dragons to put them into the grand final.
It was an even first half, with the Jets leading by two points at the main break. The Dragons got going in the third quarter to lead by eight points at the final break.
They were able to win the final quarter as they sealed a 79-66 win.
For the Jets, Lucas Carnell top scored with 17 points as four players reached double figures.
The Jets had finished the regular season in second spot.
Meanwhile in the championship men’s competition, the Jets suffered an 89-73 loss to Gippsland United.
he said.
“He kicked 7.8 and had one that missed the mark as well. It was amazing for him to come back in and start off like that after having surgery on his arm.
“Hopefully we can hold on to him for a little while.”
Jack Newitt and Jordyn Gillard were other standouts for the Lions.
White said from an injury perspective it didn’t seem like they would have any chances for next week against North Ballarat.
The Lions sit in fifth spot, now three games clear of Melton and Bacchus Marsh with three games remaining.
White said the focus was to now make sure they continue to take this momentum into the rest of the season.
“We want to make sure our spot is set in stone with another couple of wins before the finals series,” he said.
“We’ll look to keep ticking the wins off each week and put ourselves in a spot to have a real shot later in the year.”
United set up the 89-73 win in the first three quarters as it led by 31 points heading into the final quarter. The Jets won the final quarter 26-11, but the damage had been done. Benjamon Robertson top scored with 20 points.
The Jets, who sit second bottom, will finish their season this Saturday against the Pakenham Warriors. In the women’s championship division, the Jets lost to the Sherbrooke Suns on Saturday night, 7465. The two sides traded the lead in the first half before the Suns outscored the Jets 37-25 in the second half to claim the win. The Jets had just seven players suit up. Kayla Salmons top scored with 19 points.
The women’s side also finishes its season against the Pakenham Warriors.
Michael Ryan. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 520816_13
Jake Egan. (Jacob Pattison)351772_05
Lucas Carnell. (Sunbury Jets BA)
Bulldogs coach finishes up
Gisborne women’s coach Bernie Marantelli coached her last game in charge of the Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 team on Saturday.
The Bulldogs announced on Tuesday that Marantelli had advised the club of her decision not to return to the role in 2027.
Marantelli helped bring the side back into the competition in 2025, after they didn’t have the numbers in 2024.
The Bulldogs and the then Kyneton-United side joined forces last year to win the division 2 premiership in an undefeated season.
“Bernie joined the club in 2024, providing outstanding leadership, knowledge and commitment to our women’s football program,” the Bulldogs said.
“She played an instrumental role in guiding the newly merged Gisborne-Kyneton United team through its 2025 season, culminating in a memorable premiership.
“Bernie helped foster a positive and inclusive team culture, supported the development of our players, and laid strong foundations for the future of women’s football at the club.
“We are incredibly grateful for Bernie’s contribution and wish her every success in whatever comes next.”
The Bulldogs finished their season on Saturday against Tullamarine.
After facing the top four sides in the previous four rounds, the Bulldogs were keen to finish on a winning note.
It wasn’t to be as the Demons won, 6.0 (36)-1.4 (10).
The Demons led by 10 points at three quarter time before kicking three goals in the final quarter to run away with the win.
Kirsty Baker, Shannon McFerran and Hayley Mitchell were named the Bulldogs best in the loss.
The Bulldogs finished the season in sixth
spot, with six wins, seven losses and a draw for the year.
Meanwhile, a loss on Saturday ended the Bulldogs’ under-18.5 girls finals hopes.
Tigers keep building towards the finals
By Tara Murray
Lancefield went one step further in sealing a finals spot in the Riddell District Netball League with a win against Wallan.
With not much between the top seven teams, every win in the run home is important.
After an important win against Kyneton, the Tigers backed it up on Saturday against then ladder leaders Wallan.
On Saturday, the Tigers were able to get out to a strong lead to take control of the game.
With the match in their control, the Tigers looked to move some things around as they came away with a 54-38 win.
Tigers’ coach Ciara Stewart said they just wanted to lock in finals and go from there.
She said they knew they could beat Wallan.
“It’s one week at a time,” she said. “It was quite nice to get the win. We knew their goal attack wasn’t playing as she was in moon boot.
“We were missing Annie [Byrnes] but we had the rest of our core group there.
Last time we played Wallan we were disappointed to lose by six goals.
“We didn’t have Shaid Sasalu last time and it was a big difference.”
Stewart said they could have won by more but they wanted to try some things before coming into finals.
Bridget Dods was moved into goal attack from defence, while Amber Winks, one of their B-grade players, came on the court.
The one downside for the Tigers was a lower leg injury to midcourter Mia Daly. Stewart said they originally thought she tore her achilles, but it appears to just be a soft tissue injury in some positive news.
Despite the good news, Stewart said they were unsure whether Daly would be back this season.
Lilli Florance shot 28 goals for the Tigers, while Shanae Brundell shot 26 goals in the win.
The Tigers sit third on the ladder with two matches remaining.
They are two games ahead of seventh placed Macedon, who they play in the final round.
Woodend-Hesket moved to the top of the ladder with Wallan’s loss.
Stewart said their focus was just making sure they play finals.
“We knew that we needed to get some more wins,” she said.
“It’s so close with finals from first to seventh. It will come down to who wins the last few games.
“If we lost two games we could finish in seventh.
“We ticked Kyneton off and now ticked Wallan off.”
Stewart said they wanted to match what they did last year and see what happened come finals.
“Three years ago we had not won a game for a long time,” she said.
They finished two points outside the top four. In other women’s division 1 matches, East Sunbury finished its season with a win against the Sunbury Kangaroos.
The Thunder came away with the points, 2.9 (21)-1.8 (14) win.
Mariam Habib, Molly Connell and Charrouf Habib were named the Thunder’s best. No best were selected for the Kangaroos.
The Thunder finished in seventh spot, while the Kangaroos finished in 10th.
The Sunbury Lions finished with a loss to Roxburgh Park on Saturday.
A 31-0 first quarter for the Magpies set up the match and they were able to build on the lead throughout the rest of the game as they won, 9.14 (68)-1.2 (8).
Mia Bergamasco, Jordyn Elizabeth Bradie-Miles and Krystie Dudley were named the Lions best.
The Lions finished in 11th.
GDCA
Gisborne has welcomed Tess Arthur for the Gisborne and District Cricket Association women’s season. Arthur will also be the under-15 girls coach. “Tess may be young, but she already brings an outstanding cricket resume, plenty of experience and a genuine passion for helping young players grow and succeed,” the Dragons said. “Over the past two seasons, Tess has played Victorian Premier Cricket with Essendon Maribyrnong Park Ladies Cricket Club, testing herself against some of the best players in the state. Tess is certainly no stranger to the red and white. She was part of the Dragons’ return to women’s cricket in 2023 and has represented Gisborne in both our under-18 girls and under-17 boys programs.”
Ballarat NL
The Sunbury Lions snuck home against Sebastopol in the Ballarat Netball League on Saturday. Coming off an loss, the Lions were able to get over the line against the Burras, 40-38. Ella Closter, who was playing her first game for the Lions, shot 21 goals, while Caitlin Hill shot 19 goals. The Lions sit in fourth spot.
Bendigo FL
It was a tough day for Gisborne in the Bendigo Football League on Saturday. The Bulldogs were on the road against Eaglehawk as both sides try and fight for the double chance. The Hawks led at every break and were able to extend the margin on the way to an 18.13 (121)-10.16 (76) win. James Gray kicked three goals for the Bulldogs, with Bradley Bernacki, Lucas Hannon and Riley Evans the only players named in the best. The Bulldogs sit third, but the Hawks are now only percentage behind.
RDFL
Diggers Rest proved too strong for Riddell in the Riddell District Football League on Saturday. The Burras didn’t have any trouble as they won, 19.18 (132)-10.7 (67). The other winners were Macedon, Wallan, Melton South and Woodend-Hesket.
“We’ve kept the core group of players together and players have come found us.
“Hopefully they all stay next week.”
In other results, Woodend-Hesket beat Romsey 46-34, Riddell was too good for Diggers Rest, 56-48, Kyneton beat Melton South, 69=39, and Macedon was too good for Melton Centrals, winning 47-42.
Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklysport @star_weekly
Bernie Marantelli. (Supplied)
Shaid Sasalu. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Sports shorts
By Tara Murray
Macedon kept its finals hopes alive with a big important win against Melton Centrals in the Riddell District Netball League on Saturday.
With seven teams fighting for the top six spots, the Cats need to keep on winning and hope results go their way to sneak into top six.
On Saturday, the Cats beat Melton Centrals 47-37.
Cats’ coach Katie Clarke said the group continues to fight as they aim to continue their finals run.
“We’re looking to try and get back into the top six for finals,” she said.
“It was good to win yesterday [Saturday] with only five A-grade players available.
“It was good to get the win.”
Claire Oakley shot 34 goals for the Cats, while Chloe Williams shot 13 goals.
Clarke said they’ve had their challenges withinjuriesandavailabilitylikeanumber of other clubs. Clarke is among those injured on the sidelines for the Cats.
ShesaidtheyhadfourB-graderswhohad played their maximum number of A-grade matches, so they were continuing to look to give some more youngsters a go across their whole program.
On Saturday, two junior players Jocelyn Howlett and Olive Gad both made their senior debuts.
“We’ll try and provide girls with a few more debuts against Melton South in the 19s,” Clarke said.
“It’s really good to see and there’s young girls through the junior club coming up.
“They are our feeder club and there’s some good opportunities. They are the future and we have a strong relationship.”
With two rounds remaining, the Cats sit two points outside the top six.
Clarke said they were hopeful of getting their best team on the court if they were to make finals.
“Any team is beatable on their day, includingus”shesaid.“Weneedtoputour best foot forward.
“We look at the team that we are up against and play the team that we are playing. We still think we can make finals andthegirlsaretraininghard,sohopefully we make it.”
The Cats face bottom side Melton South this week before facing Lancefield in the final round.
Meanwhile, Clarke has been re-appointed coach for the next two seasons.
Clarke said she was always keen to continue coaching, but had to make sure it fitted in with her work commitments.
Cats pull off fighting win
She said she was keen to step down and play in B-grade next season, and coach the A-grade side more from the sidelines.
“We want to keep building with youth and local girls,” she said.
“It might be another reset and rebuild. We’ll open up trials and see who we can find.
“The committee has been supportive.” In other results on Saturday, Lancefield beat Wallan, Kyneton got the job done against Melton South, Woodend-Hesket moved to top with a win against Romsey and Riddell beat Diggers Rest.
Lions upset Burras Tigers important win
Wedgies tough ask
By Tara Murray
The Wedge-Tailed Eagles are hoping for a strong end to the season as they look to lock up a Central Victoria Football League finals spot.
The Wedgies are one of three teams fighting for fourth spot, with two rounds remaining.
Coach Phil Hawkes said a couple of close losses earlier in the year might hurt them and their finals hope.
“We’ve had a few new players who we’ve bought into the system,” he said.
“It’s been a little bit of a rebuild this season which has been good.
“Lookingatthefixture,thosecouple ofgameswelosthalfwaythroughthe year might cost us a finals spot.
“It will come right down to the wire.”
Heading into their first season as a standalone side, Hawkes said they thought they could potentially make finals.
“We’ll see what happens in the last few games,” he said.
“If we don’t get there we will be a littlebitdisappointed.Wethoughtwe had a side to make finals.
“It’s a stronger competition.”
Hawkes said there had been some players who had come into the side and adapted really well, while there’s some others whose development would take a bit longer, and would grow as the program grows.
After a big loss to ladder leaders Golden Square, the Wedgies fasted Castlemaine on Sunday.
Hawks said Golden Square was a good team in the air with a lot of height, while they matched up with Castlemaine a bit better.
On Sunday, it was a competitive game but Castlemaine proved too strong as it won, 6.6 (42)-2.9 (21).
A 24-1 first quarter by Castlemaine set up the win with the Wedgies not able to peg that margin back.
It was single goalkickers for the Wedgies.
Ayesha Nicholson, Mairead Murphy and Alicia Chadwick were named the Wedgies best in the loss.
The Wedgies now sit a game outside the top four, but have the best percentageofthethreeteamsfighting for that last spot. They will face White Hills, which sits on the same amount of points, this Sunday.
Hawkes said overall they were happywithhowtheclubwasgoingin its first year and they were excited to see what was to come.
The club has put out an expression of interest for a masters side for next season.
Macedon’s Claire Oakley and Melton Centrals’ Hayley Hill fly for the ball. (Ties Urie) 568967_06
