Issuu

20 OCTOBER, 2026

BIRTHDAY SALE!

Jack & Audrey Morgan 1989

Win your share of thousands of dollars in Morganʼs Bonus Vouchers

HOT PRICE

$ Bertocchi Virginian Ham

2 FOR

1299

Steggles Large Hot Roast Chicken

$1.30 per kg

HOT PRICE

Australian Economy Beef Porterhouse Portions

1595

HOT PRICE

$ 99 ea

$ 49 kg

Australian Truss Tomatoes

Australian Spring Onion Bunch

Specials available from Wednesday 21/10/26 until Tuesday 27/10/26. While stocks last.

IGAVI9994_211026

HOT PRICE

SECTION

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

BETTER THAN

1/2 PRICE Pringles Chips 134g Selected Varieties $1.86 per 100g

Energizer Max Plus Batteries AA or AAA 10 Pack $1.17 each

$ 49 ea

SAVE $3.01

SAVE $12

1170 ea

Cheezels Cheese Box 125g $1.19 per 100g

$ 49 ea

Pepsi or Schweppes 30×375mL

SAVE $2.31

Selected Varieties $2.22 per Litre

2499 ea

SAVE FROM $1.01

IGA LIQUOR SPECIALS

1/2 PRICE Cadbury Chocolate Sharepacks 126-180g Selected

$ 99 ea

Varieties

Zooper Dooper Water Ice 24×70mL Selected Varieties 24¢ per 100mL

V Energy Drink 4×500mL Selected Varieties $4.25 per Litre

$ 99 ea

$ 75 ea

SAVE $4.01

SAVE $3.75

$ 50 ea SAVE $8.50

SAVE $3.01

$ 99 ea

McCain Beer Batter Chips or Wedges 750g

SAVE $3.01

$4 per kg

VB Cans or Stubbies 24×375mL

Red Rock Deli Chips 150-165g Selected Varieties

Hellmannʼs Real Mayonnaise 400g

425 ea

Selected Varieties $1.06 per 100g

SAVE $4

Little Fat Lamb Party Shot Bucket 16×30mL or Lemonator

5799 ea

SAVE $17

2499 ea

SAVE FROM $2

2 FOR Red Bull Energy Drink 250mL Selected Varieties $11.60 per Litre

JCʼs Pretzel Knots 250g

$1 per 100g

$ 80

Selected Varieties $2.75 per 100g

SAVE 60¢

$ 49 ea SAVE $2

Aston Lucas Gourmet Desserts 400g

Sorbent 3 Ply Toilet Tissue 24 Pack 26¢ per 100 sheets

1099 ea

SAVE $2

1150 ea

SAVE $8.10

Steggles Fresh Chicken Maryland

Pedigree Dry Dog Food 2.5-3kg Selected Varieties

$ 99 kg

My Muscle Chef Meals 310-440g Selected Varieties

$ 49 ea SAVE $6.51

Supercoat Dry Dog Food 6.7-7kg Selected Varieties

SAVE $1.95

SAVE $17

20K PRIZES TO BE WON! Morganʼs IGA Melton Ph: 9743 4600

Morganʼs IGA Sunbury Ph: 9744 4290

Offer valid from 14/10/2026 to 10/11/2026 at Morganʼs Supermarkets. Customers who spend $50 or more in a single transaction during the promotional period are eligible to win an instant Morganʼs Bonus Voucher worth $50. $50 purchase must be met, excluding the purchase of tobacco products, gift cards, phone re charge and other ePay products. Each Bonus Voucher is valid for 7 days from date of issue. VIC res. 18+ who are an IGA Rewards or a SUPA CLUB member only. Starts 12:00am AEDT 14/10/26. Ends 11:59pm AEDT 10/11/26. Max 1 entry/ transaction. Limit 3 entries/person/day. Max 1 prize/person (excl. SA). See https://morgansiga.com.au/morgans-iga-birthday-sale-termsand-conditions/ for Terms and Conditions.

Morganʼs IGA Gisborne Ph: 5428 3200

While stocks last. Pictures used for illustration purposes only. Retail quantities only. No trade supplied. All prices include GST where applicable. Some products or varieties may not be available at all stores. IGA Liquor supports the responsible service of alcohol. Tobacco and alcohol not sold to under 18ʼs. We reserve the right to correct printing errors.

Morganʼs Delahey Supa Valu Ph: 9362 1207

Specials available from Wednesday 21/10/26 until Tuesday 27/10/26. While stocks last.

IGAVI9994_211026

A. Win your share of $20,000 in Morganʼs Bonus Vouchers! B. Weʼre giving away 400 x $50 vouchers to lucky customers! C. Shop in-store for your chance to win. D. Each voucher is valid for 7 days from date of issue. E. Redeem in-store at Morganʼs Supermarkets.

12854361-EA43-26

2W SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 October, 2026

Established in 1981 as the

proudly serving Sunbury and Macedon Ranges

20 OCTOBER, 2026

Steak, wine and friendship The Beefsteak and Burgundy Club is hosting a free information night in Sunbury. The Beefsteak and Burgundy Club has been bringing locals together to celebrate good wine and food for more than 50 years and on Thursday 22 October at 7pm at the Hume Global Learning Centre, the club is inviting community members to join the fun. First established in Sunbury by four local businessmen it was formally run by the national club in 1974. Of the four original members, Alan Porter and Bob Nixon, current club president, are still both active members. Mr Nixon described the club as being a welcoming environment where members get together and enjoy wine without feeling like they need to be experts. “It’s a relaxed, friendly club where you can discover more about wine, taste some interesting bottles and enjoy good food and conversation,” he said. “Whether you’re a complete beginner, an occasional wine drinker or someone who’d simply like to learn more, you’ll be very welcome.” Beefsteak and Burgundy Club president Bob Nixon with club members Rob Cooper, Alan Porter, Janelle Parry and Tony Hallifax. (Damjan Janevski) 582889 01

Protect Hill cats By Georgia Tacey A cat colony that calls Jacksons Hill home has prompted animal advocates to call for their protection amid fears over what will happen to them when production of The Block begins at the site. Forever Friends Animal Rescue founder Saskia Adams said local volunteers have been caring for the cat colony for the past seven years, with the population reaching more than 100 at its peak. “There’ve been some really wonderful local volunteers trying to help the colony avoid starvation,” she said. Ms Adams said there’s currently at least 40 cats and kittens living around the

former Sunbury Asylum site, and she holds concerns about how the production could displace or distress the colony. “Things like site clearing, demolition, construction, traffic, fencing, it’s going to disturb and displace the cats and kittens,” she said. “They’ll start moving out into the surrounding streets, the primary schools, and become more of a local issue around the roads as well, so we really want to try to come up with a comprehensive animal welfare plan for the remaining cats.” The calls have been backed by Northern Victoria MP Georgie Purcell, who has written to Channel Nine and The Block requesting them to consider funding a coordinated rescue and veterinary program

for the cats on and around the site. Ms Purcell said in her letter that while she understands The Block is not responsible for creating the cat population, the production will have a significant impact on the environment these animals currently depend on. “It is therefore essential that a comprehensive animal welfare plan is established before production begins, rather than leaving local volunteers to respond to animals in distress as the project progresses,” she wrote. Ms Adams said as a volunteer-run rescue, the costs make it difficult for them to take the full issue on. “If 40 cats came into our care, that would

cost us up to about $20,000 in veterinary fees,” she said. “Some of the cats will also have injuries or the need for dental surgery.” She also said they need foster carers to look after the cats. “Without foster carers … without them willing to open their heart and home to a Jacksons Hill cat, we can’t assist them further,” she said. A spokesperson for Channel Nine said it was aware of the unowned cats near the Sunbury site and was assessing the situation prior to the cats’ safe removal and construction commencing. The spokesperson said all relevant stakeholders would be engaged throughout the process. Details: foreverfriends.org.au

Enquire today to

(03) 8764 2488

12893166-GS43-26

receive a quote

NEWS

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Calls to reduce gambling harm By Sebastian Conidi The Alliance for Gambling Reform (AGR) along with Brimbank, Hume and Monash councils are calling on all parties contesting the state election to commit to two urgent gambling reforms. The alliance and the councils want swift implementation of mandatory carded play with binding preset loss limits, and a permanent reduction in poker machine operating hours to close venues between midnight and 10am. AGR said the call has come in response to data from the Victorian Gambling and Casi-

no Control Commission, which shows that Victorians lost $3.318 billion to electronic gaming machines (EGMs) in 2025–26 – the state’s highest annual loss on record, up 5.5 per cent on the previous year’s $3.14 billion. Brimbank recorded the highest council loss in Victoria, with $185.35 million lost on poker machines in the municipality, up 5.4 per cent on the $175.9 million lost in 2024– 25. “Reducing gambling harm in Brimbank is one of council’s key advocacy priorities because we know the wide-ranging effects it has in contributing to financial stress, relationship breakdowns, family violence,

housing insecurity, homelessness, social isolation and mental health challenges,” Brimbank mayor Virginia Tachos said. “We expect the state government to deliver stronger gambling protections, and we will continue to hold them accountable until real change is delivered.” Hume recorded its highest annual EGM loss on record for the second-year running, with residents losing $157.16 million in 2025–26 – up 6.3 per cent on the previous year. “Hume City experiences higher levels of gambling harm than many other parts of Victoria,” Hume mayor Carly Moore said.

“These changes could make a real difference for the many families affected by gambling harm.” AGR is calling on all candidates and parties contesting the state election to publicly commit to both reforms before polling day. Campaigners say the tools to stop the harm already exist — “what’s missing is the political will to use them”. Liberal liquor and gaming spokesman Tim McCurdy said the Liberal Party had the goal to reduce gambling harm, however did not directly address AGR’s two specific reforms Labor was contacted for comment.

Data centre rate motion fails

Witches of Macedon’s Guy Walter and Michelle Richards. (Damjan Janevski). 410897_02

Witches brew up spooky Lancefield fair The spookiest of markets is coming to Lancefield. Witches of Macedon is bringing a little magic, mystery and creativity to Lancefield for its Halloween edition of the Lancefield Witches Fair. On Sunday 25 October, come to the Lancefield Mechanics Institute to browse through an electric collection of stallholders offering everything from handcrafted jewellery, crystals and botanical creations to gothic curiosities. You’ll also find plenty of original artwork, clothing, mystical treasures and unusual gifts

for sale at the market, as well as tarot card reading. Visitors can explore an array of fascinating stalls, meet the talented people behind the creations and discover something a little different from the everyday. Organised by Guy Walter and Michelle Richards of Witches of Macedon, the pair said the event is about more than shopping, but is an opportunity to support small businesses, celebrate individuality and bring together a community of people who appreciate creativity, craftsmanship and the wonderfully

unusual. “Our markets are about creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome, where small businesses can shine and where visitors can discover treasures they might not find anywhere else,” they said. This will also be Witches of Macedon’s last Lancefield market, with over 30 stallholders coming along on the day. The Lancefield Witches Fair will run from 10am to 2pm in Lancefield on Sunday 25 October, with entry free for the market. Details: facebook.com/witches3435/

Road, bridge funding promised for the Macedon electorate Local roads and bridges across the Macedon electorate will benefit from a new $288 million Country Roads and Bridges Program if the Liberals are elected to government next month. Under the program, each of Victoria’s 48 rural and regional councils, including Macedon Ranges and Moorabool would receive $1.5 million every year for four years in untied funding for local road and bridge upgrades. Councils would determine which

projects are the highest priority in their communities, rather than competing for limited funding through a grants process. Liberal candidate for Macedon Kate Kendall said that under this program, Macedon Ranges Shire, Hepburn Shire, Moorabool Shire and Mount Alexander Shire will receive a combined $24 million to repair local roads and bridges. “Whether it’s Hepburn Shire, Macedon Ranges Shire, Moorabool Shire or Mount Alexander Shire, regional coun-

2 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 October, 2026

cils are struggling to get the investment they need to fix roads and bridges,” she said. “The Liberals’ promise to provide untied funding for local roads and bridges will give councils the flexibility to fund the projects on their priority lists that matter most to local communities. “This funding, alongside the Liberals’ $5 billion investment in state arterial roads, will make roads safer for motorists in regional Victoria.”

A Hume councillor’s push to consider establishing a differential rate for data centres and to advocate for local government amendments to allow councils to charge higher rates for “intensive land use” developments has failed. Cr Naim Kurt raised a notice of motion during the 12 October council meeting, calling for council to consider establishing a differential rate for data centres in Hume. The motion was amended during the meeting include waste-to-energy facilities at the request of Cr Jarrod Bell. Cr Kurt also asked council to write to the Essential Services Commission seeking advice and in-principal support on the feasibility of establishing a differential rate for data centres and waste-to-energy facilities, and to write to the state government and election candidates to advocate for amendments to the local government act to give councils the power to apply higher differential rates to data centres and other intensive land uses. However, his motion failed to gain the support of a majority of councillors amid concerns it would duplicate work on a differential rates review already being done by council officers. In his notice of motion, Cr Kurt said Hume currently applies a flat rate in the dollar across rateable property classes, meaning properties are charged the same regardless of the scale or intensity of their use. He said that under the local government act, councils can establish differential rating categories for certain property classes, including properties involving intensive uses. However, the current legislative framework places limitations on the highest differential rate that can be sought, being only four times the lowest rate in a municipal district. Cr Kurt said there were five data centres under construction in Tullamarine ward, which he represents, adding his inbox had been inundated with community complaints about data centres for about 18 months. “It will be a really strong sign to the industry that if you want to set up in Hume, if you want to run powerlines down local streets, if you want to impact local amenity, you have to pay your fair share,” he said. Cr Bell said a differential rate for data centres and waste-to-energy facilities could act as a deterrent to companies considering building such facilities in Hume. However, Crs Daniel English and Sam Misho both questioned the timing of the proposal, with Cr English questioning what it would add to the differential rate review already underway. Cr Misho said council should “not jump the gun” by approaching the review one category at time.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

‘Concrete’ action needed By Laura Michell The No Sunbury Waste Incinerator Group has welcomed a Labor election promised to prevent waste-to-energy facilities from being built within two kilometres of existing homes but called for “more concrete” action to be taken. On 11 October, Premier Ben Carroll announced Labor would implement the buffer for new facilities if re-elected on 28 November. “Waste to Energy has a place in Victoria, but not near family homes – that’s why Labor will put a buffer zone in,” he said. A waste-to-energy facility proposed by

HiQ for its Sunbury Road site has received significant backlash from the Sunbury community, Hume council and Sunbury MP Josh Bull. In August 2025, HiQ was granted a Waste-to-Energy Scheme cap license by Recycling Victoria, which would allow it to process up to 750,000 tonnes of waste annually. No Sunbury Waste Incinerator Group spokesperson Alison Medforth described Labor’s announcement as “absolutely a step in the right direction” but said there was still time for the state government to do more. “We would like to see something more

concrete. There is still time before caretaker mode to make this concrete,” she said. Ms Medforth sad while the two-kilometre buffer zone would prevent the HiQ facility from being built, it wouldn’t be enough to stop waste-to-energy facilities being built near other communities. As reported by Star Weekly in August, Liberal candidate for Sunbury Simmone Cottom promised that no waste-to-energy facility would be built in Sunbury if the Coalition was elected. In a social media post, Mr Bull confirmed the HiQ proposal would not be able to proceed. “It ... rules out the Sunbury/ Bulla in-

Young Sunbury dancer cracks his dream role

Men are often good at getting on with things — looking after family, turning up to work, catching up with mates and keeping moving, even when things aren’t going well. But what happens when the pressure builds and we don’t talk about it? The Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group (MRSPAG) is bringing local men together for a special Men’s Night at the Mount Macedon Golf Club on Thursday 26 November. The evening is an opportunity to connect, meet new people, catch up with mates and have conversations that might not otherwise happen. Guest speaker Mark Walsham from the not-for-profit organisation Purpose Through Pain will explore why men so often suffer in silence — and what happens when they finally choose not to. Mark will challenge the walls we build around ourselves and share a path forward that doesn’t require losing everything first. His message is about connection, resilience, purpose and recognising that asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Come along with a mate or on your own. Listen, have a conversation and enjoy an evening with other local men. Dinner will be provided to attendees at no cost. Keep an eye on MRSPAG’s social media for booking details. Young dancer Issaiah Apap. (Kurt Sneddon)

cle, bringing Tchaikovsky’s famous score to life through the story of Clara, a young ballet stu-

Motorcyclists urged to check gear safety ratings The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) has launched an aggressive new campaign urging Victorian motorcyclists to verify the safety ratings of their protective gear before riding, aiming to reduce serious injuries on the road. Launched in partnership with MotoCAP, Australia’s independent motorcycle protective gear testing and rating system, the “Check Your Gear Before You Hit the Road“ campaign encourages riders to use independent safety ratings when selecting protective equipment. The centerpiece of the campaign is a digital advertisement and social media series featuring a dramatized simulator that showcases the extreme forces protective gear endures during a crash, underscoring the critical role quality equipment plays in injury prevention. Motorcyclists remain dramatically over-

Men’s Night to break the silence, build connection

represented in Victoria’s road trauma statistics. Despite motorcycles accounting for fewer than four percent of registered vehicles, riders represent approximately 21 per cent of road fatalities and 20 per cent of serious injuries. Research demonstrates the protective benefits of quality gear: wearing a motorcycle jacket reduces hospital admission likelihood by 21 per cent, motorcycle pants by 51 per cent, and protective gloves by 59 per cent. However, not all gear offers equal protection. MotoCAP testing, conducted at Deakin Institute for Frontier Materials, reveals significant variation in protective performance across Australian-sold motorcycle gear regardless of price or brand. Riders can access gear ratings at motocap.com.au.

dent whose Christmas Eve celebrations lead to a magical adventure.

12849127-CV11-26

Sunbury’s Issaiah Apap has been dancing since he was barely out of nappies, and now the eight-year-old is preparing to take to the stage in one of ballet’s most beloved productions. Issaiah will play Young Fritz in Sir Peter Wright’s production of The Nutcracker, which opens at Melbourne’s Ian Potter State Theatre on 24 October. His love of dance began when he was about one year old, bopping along to just about every genre of music. “I love to dance because when I dance I am happy and can be myself,” Issaiah said. The young performer attends Flashdance Performing Arts, where he trains in a range of styles, as well as musical theatre, acting and vocal performance. His favourite dancer is Makenzie “Kenzi” from television series Dance Moms, but Issaiah is now getting the chance to create some stage magic of his own. Rehearsals began on 13 October, with the cast spending the following two weeks preparing for opening night. Costume fittings have already been completed ahead of the production’s October 24-31 season. Behind the scenes, Issaiah’s family has been busy making sure he can make the most of the opportunity. His parents and three siblings have juggled school pick-ups, after-school sport and rehearsal schedules, with help from his grandmother. While it takes careful planning, his mum Rachelle says the family is delighted to support Issaiah as he takes this next step in his performing journey. His friends and extended family are equally excited, with everyone eager to see the young dancer perform. The production promises a festive specta-

cinerator on the grounds that it is too close to new homes, no matter where it is proposed to be located,” he said. “This buffer gives communities and industry greater certainty.” Mr Bull thanked residents for their advocacy on the issue. “This long-fought process has been tough, it has been passionate and it has required a great deal of meaningful advocacy, understanding and collaboration,” he said. “What our community has been able to achieve here in Sunbury is transformational for our residents, our town, and our future.”

Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 3

BEHIND THE NEWS

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Cycling to support sick kids Robert Freeman is raising vital funds for kids with childhood brain conditions through the Ride for the Kids cycling challenge. He sat down with Jena Carr to speak about the month-long challenge, as well as his own experience of having a brain injury.

fter surviving cancer and a stroke, Robert Freeman is using his love of cycling to support kids living with brain disorders. The 71-year-old spent most of his professional life supporting kids, including those with brain conditions, but never suspected that he would suffer a similar condition. It all started on 10 July when, during the night following a routine surgery in the morning, Robert began not feeling well, couldn’t communicate and was struggling to remember basic information like where he lived and his name. “I had surgery on my hip in the morning and felt okay, but hours after the surgery I had a stroke,” he said. “Since then, I have had some issues with one of my hands, which is ongoing, so I’ve got no sense of temperature, hot or cold, with that hand. “My speech initially was really impacted, and I was really struggling to get words together, and it’s a work in progress, so I’ve come a long way. “I had to go through the process of having speech therapy, which is ongoing, and physio, not just for the hip but for the brain as well.” Doctors later determined that Robert’s stroke was the result of a blood clot in his brain and had not been caused by the surgery he had earlier in the day. “They (doctors) don’t know where the clot came from, but it broke into two and went to two different places in my brain,” he said. “I’m very lucky, because some people have strokes and they can lose their vision or they can’t walk properly, but...the coordination side of things and the speech seem to be the two major issues for me. “My speech is coming back, but I do have to pause with certain words, so the speech therapist has done a bit of work on helping me with that, and my coordination is a lot better. “My doctor has also told me to make sure that I have some rest time during the day, as one of the issues with brain injuries is that you need to switch off and let the brain have a rest.” Just seven years before suffering his stroke, Robert was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2019 while living in England. “When I was in the United Kingdom, doctors decided on brachytherapy (a type of internal radiation therapy) because it had fewer side effects,” he said. “So, they actually put radioactive seeds into the prostate, which was supposed to kill the cancer, but it didn’t work. “Then COVID-19 hit, so we came back to Australia where a doctor monitored the cancer before we eventually decided to have the prostate removed in April 2021.” Robert is participating in Ride for the Kids this month and will ride his bike to help raise money and awareness for kids with childhood brain conditions. He has raised more than $350 as of 10am on 15 October through the cycling initiative for Brainwave Australia to continue supporting families experiencing childhood brain disorders across the country. “Cycling has always been one of my passions, so I’m trying to ride 600 kilometres for the month,” he said. “The charity does a lot of work to help families; they have camps for the kids, and they help them in hospital.

Robert Freeman with his wife Louise. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 583522 02

Robert Freeman has survived prostate cancer and a stroke. 583522 06

“I saw the initiative and thought that it would be a really good thing for me to do for the kids, but also to help my own recuperation.” Robert said that his stroke experience further opened his eyes to some of the difficulties caused by childhood brain conditions and the impact it has on families. “That hit home to me about the challenges that young children go through and for their families,” he said. “I was a teacher for 35 years so I have dealt with many young children, including some who had conditions that were impacting their brains. “Having a child is hard work at any time, but when you’ve got a child that’s going through those difficulties, it’s really hard for the families. “I can only imagine what some of these young children must be going through, and there’s such a range of brain traumas

4 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 October, 2026

as well, so it’s not just one thing; it can be a whole range of things.” Robert’s wife Louise said the pair were grateful to the medical professionals involved in Robert’s cancer and stroke journey. “When Rob gets out on his bike, he’s as free as a bird and having a wonderful time,” she said. “Rob had his prostate removed and didn’t need any further treatment, which is just remarkable, and the medical professionals have been really helpful in his stroke recovery.” Louise said it was important for families of loved ones living with brain conditions, or other medical issues, to be patient. “To see kids who go through medical trauma in their childhood, it’s just so hard,” she said. “It’s important for families to recognise that it takes time for their loved one to recover and learn how to live with a brain

condition, so it is important to be patient, calm and understanding.” Brainwave Australia chief executive Paul Bird said that every kilometre ridden and dollar raised by people like Robert through Ride for the Kids helped more kids and families impacted by childhood brain conditions. “Many families are counting on us for support, and we hope you will all ride with us for the kids with brain injury,” he said. “We are thrilled to be holding this event and hope to bring together every Australian for an important cause such as ours.” Ten children in Australia are diagnosed with a neurological condition every day, leading to 3000 families each year whose lives are changed forever. Visit rideforthekids.org.au/fundraisers/ robertfreeman/ride-for-the-kids-2026 for more information and to support Robert’s fundraising efforts.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Sankey remembered By Nykita Van Den Berg Cricket and football legend Tom Sankey’s legacy will live on as his family sayS goodbye. As a life member at Gisborne Football Netball Club and the Riddell District Football Netball League, Sankey had many achievements. Across 445 games for Gisborne Football and Netball Club he celebrated four premierships, 11 club best and fairest awards, four Bowen Medals as the RDFL’s best and fairest and three leading goalkicker titles. While Sankey had many awards in football, when the cricket season started he was out on the field in white plating for the Gisborne Cricket Club. With a club record of 348 games he was a six-time first XI premiership player and was acknowledged for his achievements in 2020 when he was inducted in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association hall of fame. He had a big influence not just on the fields but on his family. Son Shane Sankey said he was a big part of why he also went onto play cricket and football. “He coached me as a junior,” he said. When the family moved over to the Lancefield much to his “disgust” there were three generations playing. “Bowling and having your dad as keeper is always good fun,” he said. “People have always said how good of a player he was and when you’re young you don’t realise.” Off the field Sankey was “very busy and hardworking” with him working a business and being “heavily involved in the fire brigade”. When ‘Ash Friday’ happened Sankey and his cricket mates got

Tom, Shane, Matt, Callum and Ben Sankey, pictured playing cricket together in 2016.. (Shawn Smits)

together on the back of his truck “mopping up” to help the firefighters during the event. Sankey was committed to his community through his work with the CFA and his continuous contributions to his clubs

with ‘Sankey Reserve’ being named after him after he installed a cricket wicket after he recognised the club’s need for the facilities when the club started to grow. He was forever a committed athlete, still playing cricket at 81 years-old.

NEWS

Hume a key cloning hot spot Melton, Hume and Whittlesea have recorded Victoria’s highest rates of car key cloning, as police seized more than 900 devices used by car thieves across the state in the past year. Police said almost half (43 per cent) of the devices were seized by police at search warrants during intercepts of suspicious vehicles in the north-west metro region, revealing the Melton, Hume, and Whittlesea Police Service Areas (PSAs) as the areas with the highest risk of key cloning and vehicle theft. The remainder of the devices were seized in the southern metro region (23 per cent), followed by the eastern region (21 per cent) and the western Region (11 per cent). Victoria Police estimate more than 10,000 vehicles are stolen using these key cloning devices each year – equating to 30 cars being taken in this way every day across the state. Thieves use the mimicking and cloning technology to override car security systems, with popular makes and models with push start ignitions serving as their main targets. Victoria Police said Toyota Corollas, Toyota Landcruisers, Holden Commodores, Hiluxs, Rav 4s and Subaru Imprezas are among the most targeted vehicles by car thieves.

The Naturally Cool Big Band (Charli Cutajar).

Naturally Cool Big Band (NCBB) is funking it up at the upcoming Spring Dance event in Sunbury. The Naturally Cool Big Band is a community band made up of local musicians who share a passion for jazz, swing and contemporary big-band music. Players range from 16 to 81 with instruments such as trumpets, saxophones, trombones, drums, piano and guitars. The Spring Dance will be on Saturday 24 October at the Sunbury Memorial Hall. The band will be playing live music and encouraging locals to come down to boogie and jive. There will be a dance floor at the front and relaxed table seating at the back. Additionally, the annual NCBB music scholarships will be awarded with the fi-

nalists getting the opportunity to perform alongside the band. Applicants were required to submit two videos of their performance with entries having closed in September with over 30 submissions. This year the band raised more $2000 for the scholarship which contributes to music tuition in 2027. The four scholarship winners will be announced at the event with one $1000 and three $500 scholarships awarded. The scholarship is available for musicians in the Macedon, Hume and Melton council areas. Doors will open at 6:30pm and community members are encouraged to bring their own drinks and nibbles with tickets on sale for $30.

12906167-MS43-26

Pitch perfect line up at spring dance

Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 5

NEWS

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Creative collective marks 50 golden years One of the Macedon Ranges longest-running creative collectives, the Buttlejorrk Artists group, will mark a special milestone next month. The group will celebrate 50 years of continuous exhibition and artistic fellowship with an exhibition at The Old Auction House in Kyneton from 12 November-24 December. The 50th anniversary show will feature original works by 12 collective members alongside invited guest artists from across the Macedon Ranges. Ranging from time-honoured traditional techniques to bold contemporary expressions, the exhibition will showcase the depth of regional talent. Buttlejorrk Artists group was formed in 1976 by a small group of potters keen to share their craft and exhibit together. The collective takes its name from the historical district encompassing Sunbury and Diggers Rest. Today, Buttlejorrk brings together original founding members and newer talent, having expanded over five decades to include painting, woodwork, sculpture, textiles, and jewellery alongside ceramics. A long-standing fixture on the local arts calendar, the anniversary exhibition is an ideal opportunity to support local makers and discover one-of-a-kind distinctive, locally crafted gifts in the lead-up to Christmas.. The community is invited to a meet the artists morning tea on Saturday 14 November from 11am. The exhibition will be open 10am-4pm daily. Admission is free with work available for purchase.

Dogs by Deidre Chestney.

David Bowden’s fish sculpture.

Silk scarf by Denise Martin.

Gladstone Park Probus club members celebrating 20 years. 581795 03

Ceramics by Jan Guest.

Nic Germano and Pam Jackson throwing pots. (Pictures: Supplied)

Ruzica Mave and Marija Horvat. 581795 08

Gladstone Park Probus club turns 20

Gladstone Park Probus club president Catherine Camilleri celebrating 20 years. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 581795 01

Gladstone Park Combined Probus club has celebrated its 20th anniversary. In October 2006, the club started with a small number of people volunteering for small jobs. Meeting were first held in a community centre and then relocated to the school hall at the Good Shepherd Primary School in Gladstone Park. The group’s aim was to create an inclusive environment where members could form lifelong friendships. The group meets on the first Wednesday of every month. Members have enjoyed numerous trips over the years to places such as the Morwell Rose Garden, the ferry crossing from Sorrento to Queenscliff and, more recently, a visit to the Dromkeen

6 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 October, 2026

National Trust Homestead at Riddells Creek. Former president Joe Bonnici was “one of seven foundation members”. He received an award on Wednesday 14 October recognising his work with the club. “Some of these people I’ve known for a long time and see more than my own family,” Mr Bonnici said. Club secretary and past president Chris Van Zeyl has also been an active member for eight years and feels “great” about the 20-year milestone. “We’re about friendship in retirement,” he said. The club currently has 85 members and is always looking for new members. There is no joining fee and the annual membership is $50 per person.

Gladstone Park Probus club past president Joe Bonnici. 581795 02

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SECTION

12900308-EA43-26

Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 7

NEWS

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Briefs

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Bin disruptions Ongoing protected industrial action by the Australian Services Union (ASU) is continuing to affect waste services across Hume. Council said to put your bin out on your usual collection day and if it is not collected, please leave it out – you do not need to report it. Council is continuing to arrange catch-up collections where possible and will keep the community updated as further information becomes available.

PHONE \ 03 8318 5777 LOCATION \ Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 DISTRIBUTION \ 1300 656 678 distribution@fermax.com.au

ADVERTISING GENERAL SALES INQUIRIES westads@starweekly.com.au CLASSIFIEDS \ 1300 666 808 EMAIL \ sales@networkclassifieds.com.au GENERAL REAL ESTATE INQUIRIES reads@starweekly.com.au

Left: Artist Sergei Shatrov with a kiln. Right: Woodfired ceramic exhibition at Trio Art Studio and Gallery in Kyneton. (Pictures: Supplied)

EDITORIAL GENERAL EDITORIAL INQUIRIES westeditorial@starweekly.com.au COMMUNITY CALENDAR ENTRIES communitycalendar@starweekly.com.au

Published by MMP Star Pty Ltd ACN 168 220 399 Head Office Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas All material is copyright to MMP Star Pty Ltd. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Paul Thomas. All significant errors will be corrected as quickly as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit starweekly.com.au

Exhibition lighting up Kyneton A new woodfired contemporary exhibition lights up Kyneton. Trio Art Studio and Gallery is currently showcasing a ceramic exhibition with artists such as Sergei Shatrov and Sue McGarland. The exhibition is highlighting the importance of the process of creating the finished object. The technique of wood firing is slow, demanding, unpredictable. According to the exhibition banner, it displays contemporary ceramic art “at its most elemental: clay transformed by ash, smoke, flame and the artist’s willingness to work with risk”. Shatrov will be featuring his woodfired and anagama practice that he utilises while McGarland is known for atmospheric firing. “There is a sound a kiln makes as it cools, small, sharp pings as the pots inside contract,” Shatrov said. “After 34 years working with clay, I

12895843-AD36-26

8 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 October, 2026

still find it compelling. It is the sound of something finished not by hand alone, but by fire, ash, timing and chance.” Shatrov teaches ceramics at Montsalvat and finds that some people who come have never touched clay before. “What strikes me is how hungry they are,” he said. In a world of mass-produced objects, there is something quietly radical about making a cup with your own hands and using it every day.” Shatrov woodfired works, alongside 16 Victorian potters, will be for sale at Trio Art Studio and Gallery from 4 October to 8 November. The gallery is open Saturday, Sunday and Monday, 10am until 4pm. “Handmade objects matter because they carry evidence of a person; a slight asymmetry, a thumbprint, a glaze that pooled unevenly. These are not flaws, but marks of a real decision made in a real moment.”

Immunisation sessions Macedon Ranges council provides free immunisations as set out by the National Immunisation Program. When you attend a council immunisation session you should bring your child’s health book and Medicare details. All children and adults are required to remain at the immunisation venue for at least 15 minutes after receiving any vaccination. The next round of sessions will be held across the shire on Thursday 5 November. In Gisborne, the session will take place from 9.15am to 10.15am at the Manna Gum Family and Children’s Centre. In Kyneton, it will take place from 12pm to 1pm at the Kyneton Mechanics Institute. In Woodend, it will take place from 2.30pm to 3.30pm at the Woodend Community Centre.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SECTION

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

12909586-RV43-26

Chemists are now treating more conditions without the need for a visit to the GP. From UTI’s to the contraceptive pill refill and more, save time and get it at the chemist.

Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 9

NEWS

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

FROM THE ARCHIVES Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

30 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

22 October, 1991

15 October, 1996

10 October, 2006

11 October, 2016

A public meeting in Sunbury last week voted to ask the Government to reverse its decision to close to Caloola Training Centre in October next year.

Legal action may be taken against 1130 Macedon Ranges property owners who are in arrears with their rates and charges.

Sunbury is experiencing one of the quietest crime periods in years.

Junior Sunbury football players who encompass the spirit of one of the Sunbury Lions’ favourite sons, will be recognised with an annual award.

Gary King is a L2P volunteer who has clocked up 4000 hours helping young drivers get their licence. (Damjan Janevski) 582673 06

Jess Yeo is competing in this year’s Special Olympics in 10-pin bowling. (Damjan Janevski) 582739 08

Centre: Lucky Sergiou. (Damjan Janevski) 583082 04

Malmsbury CFA members Honni Morris and Ashley Krive ahead of the brigade’s fashion fundraiser. (Damjan Janevski) 582777 01

Above: Alanna Dodd, Keilor Hotel general manager Dhenai Veale and Fred Ackerman. (Damjan Janevski) 582462 02

Faces of the west Each week, Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing the people and events across Melbourne’s north-west. 10 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 October, 2026

Left: Acting couple Anne Browning and Peter Houghton from Kingsville are starring in the new play, CrapBox. (Damjan Janevski) 582285 05

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

My Place Jacob Thang (Cung Hlei Thang) was named Brimbank Citizen of the Year earlier this year for his work advancing opportunities for refugee and migrant communities in Victoria. A refugee from Myanmar, he is the founder of Chin Myanmar Community Care (CMCC), the Auschin, and Auschin Group, a Social Traders–certified social enterprise delivering landscaping and grounds maintenance across Melbourne. He spoke with Laura Michell. What’s your connection to Melbourne’s north-west? It is where my story in Australia truly began. When I arrived as a refugee, this region welcomed me with open arms – it gave me safety when I had none, opportunities I never expected, and a community that made me feel I truly belonged. It’s not just where I live. It’s where I became who I am today. What do you like about where you live? What I love most is the people. You walk down the street, and you see the whole world - different faces, languages, traditions - yet everyone lives side by side with genuine respect. That diversity isn’t just something you notice, it’s something you feel. It reminds me every day why Australia is such a special place.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time? Brimbank itself – not one single spot, but the community as a whole. The energy of the people here is something I never take for granted. How does it feel to be named Brimbank Citizen of the Year? Overwhelming, humbling, and deeply meaningful. When I first stepped foot in Australia as a refugee with very little, I never could have imagined standing here receiving this honour. It tells me that this community sees me – truly sees me – and that the work I do matters. It doesn’t make me want to slow down. It makes me want to do more. Why is volunteering in your community important to you? Because I remember what it felt like to be lost, uncertain, and in need of a hand. When I first arrived, there were people who showed me kindness and helped me find my footing. That generosity changed my life. Volunteering is how I honour that gift – by passing it on to others who are walking the same difficult road I once walked, and letting them know they are not alone. Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you… When I arrived in Australia, I could barely speak English. I had to rebuild my entire life from scratch – language, culture, identity, everything. There were moments of real hardship and self-

Mayor Virginia Tachos with Citizen of the Yea Jacob Thang. (Picture: Bernie Phelan)

doubt. But those struggles shaped me in ways I’m now deeply grateful for. They gave me resilience, empathy, and an unshakeable appreciation for every oppor-

tunity. Today, I am proud to call Australia home, and prouder still to give back to the country and the community that gave me a second chance at life.

12909531-KF43-26

What, if anything, would you change about where you live? I’d like to see stronger, more consistent support for the people who need it most – newly arrived families, young people finding their way, and those doing it tough. I’ve seen firsthand what the right support at the right time can do for

a person. When we lift individuals up, the whole community rises with them.

Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 11

COMMUNITY

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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.

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Leela Cosgrove, founder and High Priestesses of WitchFest, a celebration of contemporary witchcraft at Seaworks in Williamstown.

National Survivors Day Have morning tea, hear from survivors and stand with them by joining Just4Causes for National Survivors Day. The event will be held on Wednesday 28 October at the Hume Global Learning Centre Sunbury from 11am to 3pm. ■ https://tinyurl.com/4ak326my

(Damjan Janevski) 583713 01

SNH Annual General Meeting The general meeting will be held at Sunbury Neighbourhood House 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury at 7pm on Tuesday 27 October. Register your attendance by contacting the house. ■ 9740 6978, enquiries@sunburyhouse. com.au, sunburyhouse.com.au Morning Melodies Enjoy Morning Melodies with Sincerely Yours, performed as part of the Seniors Festival. Relive the music of the 1940s & 50s in this tribute to the ‘Forces Sweetheart’ Dame Vera Lynn. Held in Artrise, Sunbury on Thursday 22 October from 10.30-11.40am. Tickets are $15 and available now. ■ tinyurl.com/2v7uc6e6 Sunbury Blue Light Disco The next disco will be held on Friday 23 October, 6-8pm at Sunbury Memorial Hall with a Halloween theme - wear your best costume! Heaps of prizes to be won! Primary school age. Entry is $8. Tickets via Eventbrite. Facebook/Instagram for more info. Volunteers are also welcome to reach out. ■ sunburybluelight@gmail.com Sunbury Art Society Join the SAS group for all things arty. The group meets on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at its new location at Artrise in Jacksons Hill from 10am-3pm. New members and beginners are welcome. ■ sunburyartsociety.com Jackson’s Creek Combined Probus Club The Jackson’s Creek Combined Probus Club meets the second Monday of the month at Sunbury Bowling Club. Doors open 10am for a 10.30am start. New members welcome. They have monthly outings, lunches, speakers and much much more. ■ Marilyn, 0412 235 774 Macedon Ranges Suicide Prevention Action Group MRSPAG hosts two Safe Spaces in the Macedon Ranges, in Woodend and Romsey. The Woodend Safe Space is open every Wednesday from 5.30-8.30pm at the Woodend Neighbourhood House. The Romsey Safe Space is open fortnightly on Saturdays from 1-4pm. MRSPAG are also looking for volunteers with lived experience to be peer support workers. ■ mrspag.com.au Riddell and District Seniors Club Join the club for a chef-prepared threecourse meal every Thursday at the Riddells Creek Community Centre. Lunch is held at 11.45am for a noon start every Thursday. Pricing ranges between $15$20 for members and visitors, with a yearly membership fee of $10. ■ Margaret, 0498 101 008, riddellscrksen@gmail.com

Sunbury Repair Cafe Happening every third Saturday of the month at Sunbury Neighbourhood House from 10am-12.30pm. Join the team for a cuppa and a skill share repairing broken items to help prevent it from going to landfill. ■ sunburyhouse.com.au Crop Swap Swap your excess produce and get your hands dirty learning about the edible, indigenous and useful plants in Sunbury Neighbourhood House’s garden. Happening every third Saturday of the month from 10am onwards at the Sunbury Neighbourhood House. ■ sunburyhouse.com.au 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 7:30pm to 9:30pm. Plus Wednesdays 10am -noon. ■ sunburybc@gmail.com Chamber Poets The Chamber Poets Woodend meet every second Saturday of the month at the Woodend RSL. Featuring open readings, special guests and music. Donation $10 at the door. ■ facebook.com/groups/ChamberPoets/ about Sunbury Over 55s Social Table Tennis Every Wednesday from 1-3pm, in the

12 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 October, 2026

Sunbury Recreation Stadium, Sunbury Recreation Reserve (Clarke Oval). No experience or booking necessary. Come, have a look and give it a try. ■ Bruce, 0438 027 978 North West District Pipe Band North West District Pipe Band meets every week at the Diggers Rest Bowling Club. They’re looking for any pipers or drummers out there, retired or beginners, for social play outs. ■ Hank, 0412 160 576 Sunbury Ladies’ Badminton Club The club plays social and competition games every Thursday morning 9.30amnoon, excluding public and school holidays at the Eric Boarman Stadium, Wilsons Lane, Sunbury. All skill levels welcomed. ■ sunburylbc@gmail.com Woodlands Ladies Probus Club Woodlands Ladies Probus Club is for retired and semi-retired ladies who are looking for new friends and social activities. The club meets on the fourth Monday every month at Club Sunbury, with guest speakers and lunch after. ■ Jessie, 0458 190 254, woodlandsladies.3429@gmail.com 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. No partners needed, 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, 7-19 O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury. All women are welcome, and grandchildren welcome to. ■ Bev Goodman, 0402 988 954 With One Voice Sunbury With One Voice 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. The choir rehearses each Tuesday from 6.30pm at Goonawarra Neighbourhood House, 8 Gullane Drive, Sunbury. A fun and welcoming choir, new members are welcome. ■ sunbury@withonevoice.org.au Malmsbury Farmers & Makers Market .Always the third Sunday of the month. Fresh produce, wine, hot food, coffee, plants, artisan foods and crafts that are special. Musical entertainment while you shop and catch up with friends. Located at the picturesque Malmsbury Cricket Ground, Ellesmere Place, Malmsbury from 9am-1pm. ■ Amy, 0423 726 695

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

ENTERTAINMENT

Wrestling rumble mayhem Get ready to rumble this Halloween as Mayhem Pro wrestling returns to Bacchus Marsh for a Halloween night of live professional wrestling, headlined by the fifth annual Relentless Rumble – a huge 30-person match to decide who will be the last wrestler standing. Halloween Havoc brings together Mayhem Pro wrestlers and rising talent from the Relentless School of Pro Wrestling for an action-packed, family-friendly night at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall on Saturday 31 October. Mayhem pro is a professional wrestling

promotion based in Melbourne’s western suburbs, promising to provide an Australian pro wrestling experience suitable for all ages and full of plenty of high-flying, drama-filled entertainment, with the match set to see 30 wrestlers battle it out to determine who will be the last one standing. Wrestling fans and newcomers alike can expect plenty of rivalries, surprises, and over-the-top wrestling action, with a full bar and barbecue available throughout the jam-packed evening. Mayhem Pro wrestlers will share the ring

with emerging talent from the Relentless School of Pro Wrestling, giving fans the chance to see established performers alongside the next generation of wrestling talent. Organisers are promising a family-friendly night packed with larger-than-life characters, ongoing rivalries and unexpected twists. Junior tickets will be available for children aged six to 14, while children aged five and under can attend for free, making the event an option for families looking for something different to do on

Halloween. Tickets can be purchased at the door, with fans encouraged to book online in advance to save $5. Halloween Havoc will be held at Bacchus Marsh Public Hall on Saturday 31 October. Doors open at 6.30pm, with the first bell set to ring at 7.30pm. Details and tickets: https:// w e l c o m e t o m o o r a b o o l . c o m /e v e n t s bacchusmarsh-ballan-gordonblac k wood-g reenda le/m ay hem-prowrestling-halloween-havoc-relentlessrumble-5.

Art without borders An intimate celebration of cultural heritage, creativity and connection is set to arrive at the Bowery Theatre this November, with Forest Living Room, an interdisciplinary performance by Melbourne-based collective Resonate Heart. Taking place on Saturday 21 November, from 6pm to 7.30pm, the performance weaves together original and traditional music, dance, gesture, shadow puppetry and multilingual poetry to create a shared artistic experience centred on belonging. Resonate Heart is a collective of female artists championing diverse perspectives through collaborative creative practice. Its current members are Nela Trifkovic, Elnaz Sheshgelani, Irine Vela, Vahideh Eisaei, Kelly Dowall, Sarita Mcharg and Lizzy Kuoth, whose varied disciplines come together to form intimate creative rituals. Developed by artists within the collective, Forest Living Room pays homage to their cultural heritages through songs and poems performed in Farsi, Nuer, Hindi, Bosnian, Serbian, Ladino and English. The work explores how language, movement and shared artistic expression can foster connection across cultures. Alongside the performance, Resonate Heart will offer a series of free community workshops at St Albans Community Centre on November 7, 13 and 20. Distinct from the stage production, the workshops invite participants of all ages to collaborate directly with the collective through hands-on activities exploring language, rhythm and embodied expression across different art forms. Supported in partnership with Creative Partnerships Australia, the sessions aim to encourage artistic development, cultural learning, professional growth, conflict resolution, creativity and well-being.

A free screening of Shaun Micallef’s Going for Broke will be held at the Sun Theatre in Yarraville on 29 October.

Catch Going For Broke at the Sun Theatre, Yarraville

The Resonate Heart. (James Morris Photography)

Season of spooky makes it way to Animal Land Animal Land is turning spooky for a Twilight Halloween Trick or Treat Trail. This Halloween Animal Land, Diggers Rest is bringing the scare with local families being invited to attend the farm for an afternoon of trick or treating, farm fun and Halloween surprises. The event will run on Saturday 31 October from noon to 6pm. The day will include a trick or treat trail, Halloween activities, Animal Land farm experiences, local makers and market stalls, treats and family fun with prizes and

surprises. The event will be fundraising for the Good Friday Appeal with all proceeds going to The Royal Children’s Hospital. Costumes are encouraged for the kids to have an immersive dress up day full of Halloween fun. Tickets are available with children costing $30 and adults $25. Details on the event can be found at https://cloud.itmprojects.com.au/tours2/ Tours?cID=ALD&tID=Hallo26&date=31&p ercnt;2F10&percnt;2F2026#tour-info

Animal Land Farm bringing the Halloween spirit. (Supplied)

The Sun Theatre in Yarraville is hosting a free community screening of Shaun Micallef’s Going For Broke on Thursday 29 October, with the man himself in attendance. The Williamstown based comedian, writer and actor and filmmaker will be on hand for a panel discussion and Q&A following the screening of selected clips from Going For Broke, a documentary exploring Australia’s complex relationship with gambling . Hosted by Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay councils and IPC Health, the evening will explore gambling harm through a range of perspectives, including lived experience, research and community voices. It will provide an opportunity for audience members to hear from experts and those who’ve experienced gambling addiction, reflect on the impacts of gambling, and consider what the broader community can do to reduce gambling-related harm. Those interested in coming along are warned that the event will include images and discussion of gambling and gambling-related harm, which some people may find distressing or triggering. IPC Health will have a qualified counsellor on site during the event should anyone need support or just someone to talk to. The event runs from 6-8pm and entry is free, though bookings are essential and can be made at: https://shorturl.at/8NCAK If you or someone you know is experiencing gambling harm and needs needs support, call 1800 858 858 or visit: https://gamblershelp.com.au/get-help/ online-support/

Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 13

SECTION

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

networkclassifieds.com.au networkclassifieds.com.au General Notices

(include your name, address and phone number)

We accept payment by: (1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local office)

Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...

0427 058 164 or 5428 7166

TREE LOPPING/SURGERY

12435707-FA03-20

Deadline for all classiﬁcations is 10.00am Monday.

5% DISCOUNT

& ARCHIE’S

on presentation of this ad

TREE SERVICE

ANTENNAS

• Stumps Removed REMOVED • Fully Insured OR • Woodchipping TRIMMED & Mulching • Pensioner Discounts

0488 816 557

12586475-SN03-23

12619651-KG29-23

SAME DAY TV ANTENNA SERVICE

FAST FRIENDLY EFFICIENT Phone 7am-8pm | installmyantenna.com.au

Certiﬁcate in Tree Climbing & Tree Felling

0418 378 097

Romsey Firewood

Impounded by Hume City Council City Laws Officers on Wednesday, 30 September 2026 at 12:00 pm, from Saunders Court, Roxburgh Park, Victoria 3064. 1 female Dorper cross sheep, white in colour with a black face, without ear tags or identification. If this animal is not claimed and all associated costs are paid, the above animal will be sold or disposed of on Tuesday, 27 October 2026 by public auction at Kyneton Saleyards, Cnr Edgecombe and Saleyards Road, Kyneton VIC 3444. Any enquiries relating to the above should be made to the City Laws Department, Hume City Council, on 9205 2200.

3m split ............... $225 pcm 6m split ...............$220 pcm 12m split............... $215 pcm 20m split...................$210 pcm 20m unsplit.............$200 pcm

ŕîƙƙĿǶĚē ēĚîēŕĿŠĚƙ ĲūƑ ¹ƭĚƙēîǋɈ ȄƑē sūǄĚŞċĚƑ ĿƙƙƭĚ îƙ Ĳūŕŕūǅƙɇ Friday, 30th October at 10am

Free Delivery All Areas Phone Peter on

03 5423 7103

12908682-AF43-26

cutandclimb

Complete Tree & Stump Removal

FREE QUOTES Mobile: 0478 129 330 | ABN. 43462185813

12629487-MS35-23

Residential - Commercial - Industrial

12451574-SN25-20

NATHAN FENECH CONCRETING

฀

DEATHS

฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Loved Father of Paul, Phil and David (dec). Always In Our Hearts

Family holidays a thing of the past!

Looking to upgrade your boat?

Ca$h deal for your wheels! Your advertisement will be published in the Classified section for 15 weeks. Advertise your car, motorbike, truck, tractor, trailer, caravan, campervan, machinery or even your boat (with trailer), houseboat or other water toys. Include a colour photo for no extra charge.

3) Extra charge for extra lines above 10. 4) Extra colour pics only $5.50 each. We accept

sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

A Service to Celebrate the Life of Mr Ian Arnel will be held at the St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, 49 Fisher Street, Gisborne on FRIDAY 30th October 2026 at 1.30pm. Private Cremation. Family and friends unable to attend are invited to join the service via livestream, which can be accessed on Ian’s tribute page at tjscottandson.com.au

Announce your special occasion

with photo

Phone our friendly classiﬁed staff on

1300 666 808

• Birthday Greetings • Congratulations • Welcome Baby • Newlyweds • Happy Anniversary

Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identiﬁcation number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identiﬁcation number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

1300 666 808 sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

WANTED TO BUY

1990 NISSAN URVAN

$$$$ Paid. Buying all years and models Call 0455 776 443 LMCT 12395

Campervan. Very good condition, new poptop and awning, good tyres and towbar, petrol or gas, dble bed or single, kitchenette gas stove, 3 way fridge, sink water tank, Winch USB port, new dual batteries, solar system and 12 mths rego. Rego No. IUT7GL.

WRECKING FREE CAR REMOVAL Pay up to $500 for most cars Dead or Alive LMCT 10268W

Priced: $15,000

7 days a week service Call Gus for a free quotation on

Ph. 0408 313 919

0435 904 818

MOTOR VEHICLES

*Full colour 10cms x 1 col or 5cms x 2 col

14 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 October, 2026

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

CARS WANTED

ARNEL, Ian

From

202628003-AM27-26

*Conditions: 1) Private sellers only. No refunds once sold. 2) Maximum of 10 lines including heading.

CARAVANS & TRAILERS

12910739-JO43-26

12910654-KA43-26

Time for a new car?

PETS & SERVICES

Motoring

FUNERAL SERVICES

ARNEL, Ian Dearly loved husband to Bev.

฀ ฀

฀

0418 384 796

section of Network Classifieds.

14.03.1940 – 12.10.2026

฀

Free Delivery All Areas Phone Peter

Celebrations

Announcements

lee@cutandclimb.com.au

CONCRETE PRODUCTS & SERVICES

All • Footings • Slabs • Foundations • Permeable Concrete • Concrete Paving • Concrete Restorations NO JOB TOO SMALL!

12575127-AI44-22

12853324-RV12-26

Contact Adam 0422 250 675

MASSAGE THERAPISTS ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.

Tree Removal • Tree Pruning Report Writing • Stump Grinding • Fully Insured Emergency Call Outs • Mulch Available

EXCELLENT QUALITY REDGUM 3m split ............. $225 pcm 6m split ............. $220 pcm 12m split............ $215 pcm Local Split 3m split ................$175pcm 6m split ................$170pcm

BONE DRY FIREWOOD

CLASSIFIED EARLY DEADLINES Melbourne Cup

Dip. Hort. Arb

All Types of Bricklaying Restoration Work • Brick Fences • Repair Work

48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 0468 693 833

MURRAY RIVER REDGUM

SHEENA FROST CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Lee Guppy 0407 051 511

AK BRICKLAYING

Open 7 days

FOR SALE

TREE SERVICES

BRICKLAYERS

$110/ 30mins

12872770-JR22-26

12901604-GC40-26

GRASS SLASHING, MOWING, WHIPPER SNIPPING and FARM CLEAN UPS PROMPT & RELIABLE SERVICE INSURED OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE JOHN HABER

12809272-MS41-25

SLASHING

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS

• 40 Years Family FR Owned & Operated QUO EE TES • 25 Year Warranty • Senior/Pensioner Discount #1 in SUNBURY

REC No. 36825

Rainbow Club

12423634-SN31-19

TOWARDS SOLAR Eligible Victorian households may qualify for the Solar CALL NOW Homes rebate 0430 951 007

IMPOUNDED LIVESTOCK

We accept

202632001-RV31-26

12890647-AD33-26

Online: networkclassifieds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

$ 1,400

FOR SALE

12321532-HM36-16

GET UP TO

ADULT SERVICES

SWA6566B

THINKING ABOUT SOLAR?

Placing your classiﬁed advert is so easy...

PUBLIC NOTICES AND EVENT

12652832-AI48-23

ELECTRICIANS

12910050-JV43-26

DEADLINE

General Classifieds

12872775-AM23-26

Trades & Services

HOLDEN COMMODORE

Find it in the

2001 Model, registration until 27.07.2027. Plate No. 1KW1CT. In very good condition.

Trades & Services

$4,300.00 Ph: 0417 589 005.

section of Network Classifieds.

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Izzi Batt-Doyle broke the Australian women’s marathon record running which US city's 2026 marathon?

3. 2026 Melbourne Marathon men's winner Eliud Kipchoge represents which country?

2. Which NBA team is Aussie Ben Simmons currently signed to?

4. Which two Dick Johnson Racing drivers won the 2026 Bathurst 1000? 5. 2026 Melbourne Marathon women's winner Camille French represents which country? 6. Valerie is the costumed snake mascot for which Victoria-based WNBL team? 7. Teenage Australian basketballer Luke Paul is set to play at which North Carolina-based US college in 2027? 8. What sport features in the 2003 film Air Bud: Spikes Back (also known as Air Bud 5)? 9. Lachlan Cowan and Will Hayward last played for which AFL team? 10. Which US city hosted the 1932 Summer Olympics?

Ben Simmons

Eden Park

13. What animal is featured in the Pittsburgh NHL logo? 14. The film Next Goal Wins depicts the infamous American Samoa soccer team who lost in the 2001 FIFA match with a final score of what? 15. What is the most popular sport in Japan? 16. Who recently became the first Chinese person to win the China Open tennis tournament? 17. Who was the No.1 pick in the most recent NBA draft? 18. The Wallabies have not beaten the All Blacks at Eden park in how many years: 10, 20, 30 or 40? 19. South Melbourne FC upset which A-League team to win the 2026 Australia Cup? 20. The 2020 sports documentary series The Last Dance centres around which team in the NBA?

21. Kenya has only won Olympic medals in athletics and what other event?

26. Against which country did the Matildas lose 4-2 during a recent international friendly?

22. What team does Max Verstappen race with in the Formula 1 Championship?

27. Melbourne’s Junction Oval will be able to host what type of cricket matches in the 2026/27 season?

23. In what year did Australian cricketer Nic Maddinson last play a Test before his recent recall in the South African Test series? 25. Which AFL Women’s team plays home games at RSEA Park? 20. Who did Lando Norris collide with during the last lap of the Singapore Grand Prix Sprint?

28. Zak Butters will play for which AFL team in 2027? 29. Anthony De Ceglie was most recently CEO for which team, set for a 2027 NRL debut? 30. Ilia Malinin and Kaori Sakamoto are current world champions in which sport?

Place Your Classified Ads Online Your advert will appear in print and online!

12536910-CG08-22

1. Chicago 2. Sacramento Kings 3. Kenya 4. Brodie Kostecki and Todd Hazelwood 5. New Zealand 6. Geelong Venom 7. Duke University 8. Beach volleyball 9. Carlton 10. Los Angeles 11. Taekwondo 12. Two 13. Penguin 14. 31-0 15. Baseball 16. Qinwen Zheng 17. AJ Dybantsa18. 40 19. Melbourne Victory 20. Chicago Bulls 21. Boxing 22. Red Bull Racing 23. 2016 24. St Kilda 25. Oscar Piastri 26. Germany FC 27. Night matches 28. Western Bulldogs 29. Perth Bears 30. Figure skating

2310

11. What martial art is the national sport of South Korea?

12. The Kentucky Derby is also known as the fastest how many minutes in sports?

Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 15

PUZZLES

easy

3 1 7

9 5 1 3 7 4 5 1 2 9 7 6 4 1 6 8 9 2 3 2 8 9 7 2 9 6 2 8 medium

2 6 7 9 2 7 8 4

ACROSS

27 28 29 30

3 9

7 5 1 5 8 2 5 3 8 3 7 8 2 4 2 9 4 5

9 2

5 1 4

9 9 6 7

6 21

23 8

26 4

16 9

21 19

No. 344

hard

7 8 9 14 16 17 19 22 23

DECODER 10

19 24

1 3

Q N

F K A P M G E L Q N

18 5

19 6

20 7

21 8

22 9

23 10

24 11

25 12

26 13

2 3 1 4 7 6 8 5 9 5 4 7 3 8 9 1 6 2 6 8 9 5 2 1 3 7 4 8 5 3 7 1 2 4 9 6 9 7 2 6 3 4 5 1 8 1 6 4 8 9 5 7 2 3 3 2 8 9 5 7 6 4 1 4 1 5 2 6 8 9 3 7 7 9 6 1 4 3 2 8 5

5 1 3 7 2 6 4 8 9 4 7 9 8 1 5 3 6 2 2 6 8 3 9 4 7 5 1 7 8 6 2 3 9 1 4 5 3 4 1 5 6 8 9 2 7 9 2 5 1 4 7 6 3 8 6 3 7 9 8 2 5 1 4 8 5 4 6 7 1 2 9 3 1 9 2 4 5 3 8 7 6

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in 's'.

Today’s Aim: 13 words: Good 19 words: Very good 26 words: Excellent

C E

No. 419 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

W A T T S A W A R E S A L O N P I L L S S T Y L E

16 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 October, 2026

17 18

25 26 28

WORDFIT 3 LETTERS ALE AMP APE ARK ASK DEW ERA EWE GYM ICE IMP LIE MUG NAP ODD POT PRO PRY RYE SEA SPA TEE TON VIA

5 LETTERS ADORE AGREE APPAL APPLE APRIL ARGUE ARISE BRAKE DISCO DOERS EATEN ELITE ERROR ESSAY GNAWS HEART IRATE KINDA LARDS LARGE LEAVE

4 LETTERS DABS ETCH MEWS NEST PEEL SECT SILT SLED SPAS TAPS TENS WIRE WOKS YAPS

QUICK QUIZ

No. 312

D I S C O

cell, cello, CELLULOID, clod, cloud, clue, clued, code, coil, coiled, cold, cole, collide, collie, collude, could, cull, culled, dice, docile, iced, lice, loci, lucid, ludic, oleic

6 2 1 8 3 9 5 7 4 3 4 9 7 2 5 8 1 6 7 8 5 1 4 6 3 2 9 2 3 8 4 5 1 9 6 7 9 7 4 3 6 8 2 5 1 5 1 6 9 7 2 4 3 8 4 6 7 5 9 3 1 8 2 8 5 2 6 1 4 7 9 3 1 9 3 2 8 7 6 4 5

N L

I S

T O Z D X S J V U H R C Y

4 4

W B I

hard

medium

23 11

9-LETTER WORD

easy

5x5

25 9

6 19

6 5 1 6 2 4 5 3 1 2 1 9 2 4

Barely (4) Liveliness (9) Young bird (5) Relating to civilisation (8) Manoeuvre in a very small space, turn – – – (coll) (2,1,4) Posit (5) Hoodlums (9) Longevity (coll) (4) Emotional release (9) Reparations (9) Revolt (8) Decoration or reward (7) Starchy vegetable (5) Flat unleavened bread of India (4) Japanese delicacy (5) Consumes (4)

1 2 3 4 6

DOWN

Possessiveness (8) Kind of dark tea (6) Trade (5) Burning to ashes (9) Cloak (6) Shakes (7) Dispassionate (8) Composed (6) Arctic plain (6) Extremely hungry (8) Skilled worker (7) Structure; arrangement (6) Lower layers (9) Offspring (5) Mask (6) Diverges (8)

1 5 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 20 21 24

No. 312

LIVEN MAIMS MEANS OPERA ORBIT OVERS PASSE PEACE PECAN POLKA POSED RAISE ROSES SAILS SALES SASSY SEEDS SENDS SHAPE SLEET SOLAR SOOKY

STAMP STEER SUCKS TOWEL TRAWL TREAT WIDER

7 LETTERS BATSMAN COCONUT PARSLEY PRESIDE REOPENS TUESDAY

6 LETTERS ARDENT DIGEST HERNIA SALARY

8 LETTERS EDUCATES KEYNOTED KEYWORDS READINGS

23-10-26

Who or what is Bindi Irwin (pictured) named after?

In what year was the company Amazon founded?

Swamp rock is a genre of music primarily associated with which US city?

I Like Me is a 2025 documentary about the life of which late actor?

What nationality is human rights activist Malala Yousafzai?

The Further Mis-Adventures of Cliff Booth is a 2026 sequel to which 2019 film?

Which nation occupied India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands during World War II?

Route 20 is the longest road in which country?

What does the acronym GIF stand for?

10 What colour is citrine? ANSWERS: 1. Steve Irwin’s favourite crocodile 2. New Orleans 3. Pakistani 4. Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood 5. United States 6. Graphics Interchange Format 7. 1994 8. John Candy 9. Japan 10. Yellow

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

S A L E S P E C A N H E A R T A D O R E E R R O R T R AW L A G R E E S U C K S R A I S E M U G D I S C O T O N S E A M E A N S D I G E S T P E E L A M P T U E S D A Y O P E R A E T C H M E W S R E A D I N G S T A P S L I E B A T S M A N P R E S I D E S P A S K E Y N O T E D I C E T E N S W I R E D O E R S P A R S L E Y A S K S A L A R Y T OW E L Y A P S D E W P O S E D P O T A P E I R A T E O V E R S A P P L E K I N D A B R A K E L I V E N S A S S Y S O L A R S L E E T

No. 312

J E A L O U S Y O O L O N G U N W O L N P A S K I L L C R E M A T I O N T M E I G D N G M A N T L E S H I V E R S T T M T C L I N I C A L S E D A T E A O L N T R R A V E N O U S T U N D R A H O U N A R T I S A N S Y S T E M R U E A E U M U S U B S T R A T A S E E D S I E T N T H N E S C R E E N D E V I A T E S

SUDOKU

Crosstrek a worthy option By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring RATINGS

Crosstrek is the smallest model in the Subaru SUV range. Previously branded as the XV it sits below the mid-sized Forester and larger Outback. In between are the Solterra and Trailseeker, both of which are EV only, as is the sportier Uncharted hatchback. Crosstrek competes against vehicles such as MG ZS, Mitsubishi ASX, Kia Seltos and Mazda CX-30. Five Crosstrek variants are offered: 2.0L, 2.0R, 2.0S (petrol), plus Hybrid L and Hybrid S, with prices ranging from $34,990 to $45,090 plus on-road costs. Our test was in the top-spec Hybrid S. As with all Australian Subaru models, except for the Toyota re-badged BRZ coupe, Crosstrek comes with all-wheel drive. LED headlights, plus cornering lights, improve visibility at night and add to power savings, while LED rear combination lamps feature a sharp 3-D C-shape. Rear-view mirrors are smaller, improving aerodynamics and present a less obstructive view. All Crosstrek variants come with dusk-sensing LED headlights, roof rails and power-folding door mirrors. Crosstrek 2.0R, 2.0S and Hybrid S also get LED daytime running lights with the top-spec 2.0L and Hybrid L featuring bulb type DRLs.

Looks: 8/10 Performance: 7/10 Safety: 9/10 Thirst: 7/10 Practicality: 8/10 Comfort: 8/10 Tech: 8/10 Value: 7/10

Styling While the general appearance of the Crosstrek is a carry-over from the XV, the bonnet and radiator grille have been updated. Use of lightweight aluminium for the bonnet contributes to improved pedestrian protection with a softer head impact zone, while aluminium front fenders save 2kg and optimises weight distribution all round. While the grille retains the signature hexagonal shape, it’s now larger with an aggressively styled honeycomb design.

Interior The cabin of the Crosstrek Hybrid S has a real premium feel, which it should, given that it will cost close to $50,000 on the road. It’s light and spacious with a friendly soft-touch material on the dashboard and steering wheel. The front seats are comfortable and supportive with eight-way power adjustment and lumbar support for the driver in the R and S models. There’s good leg, head and shoulder room, although the centre-rear seat position is best suited to young children as expected in a relatively small vehicle. Boot space in the Crosstrek hybrid is a reasonable 315 litres although it doesn’t come with a spare wheel of any sort. Instead, it relies on a puncture repair kit, a feature likely to deter those who may be considering using the car’s AWD and 220mm ground clearance to take it off-road. Petrol-only models do get a space-saver spare which reduces the boot capacity to 290 litres.

Engines/transmissions Petrol-only Crosstrek variants are powered by the latest version of Subaru’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engine, delivering maximum power of 115kW at 6000 rpm and top torque of 196Nm at 4000 revs. The same engine in the hybrid models get slightly less power (110 kW at 5800 rpm) but the same torque figure. The mild hybrid electric motor adds 12.3kW of power and 66Nm of torque and

Subaru Crosstrek is a relatively conservative vehicle designed for couples or small families with all the latest in safety features. (Pictures: Supplied)

is self-charging, capturing kinetic energy through regenerative braking and coasting. The electric motor is placed near the vehicle’s centre of gravity, while the battery and other components are positioned above the rear axle, providing balanced front/rear vehicle weight distribution. Drive from the e-Boxer engine is sent to the all-wheel drive system through a CVT automatic with seven-steps for manual override.

Safety Although it’s yet to undergo ANCAP testing the outgoing XV scored a maximum five stars and with a comprehensive range of safety features the same rating is likely for Crosstrek. Standard features in all variants include nine airbags, blind spot monitoring, front side radar, lane change assist, rear cross traffic alert, rear parking sensors, reversing camera, reverse automatic braking, driver inattention warning, tyre pressure monitoring and Isofix child seat anchor points. R and S variants add front and side view monitors, high beam assist and a 360-degree camera. Standard across the range is Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist system which includes adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, numerous lane control and pre-collision alerts and braking assist features, speed sign recognition and speed limiter. The two hybrid models also come with a pedestrian alert system.

Infotainment Crosstrek combines an 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen in the centre of the dashboard with a 4.2-inch

Multi-Information Display (MID) in front of the driver. The central screen is in portrait mode. It has large buttons and fonts and is within easy reach of the driver. There are physical knobs for the audio system and, although the climate controls are on the touchscreen they can be adjusted with a minimum of distraction. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity are standard across the range. The nine-speaker Harman Kardon audio system provided excellent sound reproduction. It’s standard in the two S variants with the lower-spec models getting a more basic six-speaker system. Likewise, embedded satellite navigation is only available with the top-spec S petrol and hybrids. All models get USB-A and USB-C ports in the front console and there are also USB charge ports in the R and S. A wireless Qi smartphone charger is standard.

Driving Unlike most other hybrids which start silently and smoothly under battery power, the Crosstrek Hybrid’s engine kicks in immediately, taking away much of the appeal of the EV component. That means missing out on the instant torque that’s such an appealing feature of electric vehicles. On the plus side the engine will shut down when the vehicle is coasting or in slow-moving traffic and run solely on battery power. The e-Boxer logic adjusts the power split between petrol and electric to match driving conditions. It automatically changes between three modes: Motor Assist EV driving; Motor Assist electric (EV)

+ petrol engine driving and engine-only driving. The lower centre of gravity and greater rigidity provides excellent driving dynamics, both on and off the bitumen. When cornering, there is little evidence of body roll and it doesn’t get fazed by rapid changes in direction. The electric power steering is well-weighted and provides plenty of feel on both bitumen and loose surfaces. The steering wheel is both reach and tilt adjustable. Crosstrek’s 220mm ground clearance is regarded by many as being the minimum for a genuine off-road vehicle. You wouldn’t call it a genuine 4WD in appearance, but under its station wagon body it’s close to being one.

Summing up XV was a consistent seller for Subaru throughout its decade on the market. There’s no reason why the more-sensibly named Crosstrek won’t continue that trend. It’s a relatively conservative vehicle designed for couples or small families with all the latest in safety features. While its ground clearance and all-wheel drive means that it can cope with moderate off-road conditions. Subaru is at pains to describe Crosstrek Hybrid as a ‘mild’ hybrid and it falls a fair bit short of the sub-5.0L/100km fuel consumption figures that we’re used to from Toyota hybrids such as the similar-sized Corolla Cross. On the combined urban/highway cycle, Crosstrek hybrid uses a claimed 6.5L/100km compared to 7.2L/100km for the petrol model, making it hard to justify the $3600 surcharge. At the same time performance is hampered by the hybrid’s extra weight.

Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 17

SPORT

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Westmeadows celebrates a wicket. 584728 15

Sunbury Kangaroos’ Avtar Singh. 584732 03

Merrifield’s Harmandeep Bhathal. 584732 08

Keilor’s Nathan Beever. 584728 03

Sunbury’s Ashley McKinley. 584734 07

Cricket action heating up It was perfect weather for cricket on Saturday as powerful batting and stunning bowling performances were on show.

Star Weekly photographer Ties Urie was out shooting some of the action.

It was a tough day for Melton Centrals. 584737 07

Plenty Valley have a chat. 584741 09

Melton Centrals’ Jarrod Roe walks off at Wyndham Vale celebrates. 584737 15

18 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 October, 2026

Newport Digman’s Rohan Parag. 584734 09

Melton’s Archie Cairns. 584741 16

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Crooks new Wedgies coach By Tara Murray Ben Crooks is the new coach for the WedgeTailed Eagles for next year’s Central Victoria Football League season. Crooks steps into the role after Phil Hawkes stepped down at the end of this year. Crooks brings almost 20 years of coaching experience across junior, under-19 and senior women’s football, with a strong focus on player development and creating positive football environments. He is already familiar with much of the Wedgies’ playing group, having worked with a number of current players through Gisborne-Kyneton United, alongside outgoing coach Phil Hawkes and Bernie Marantelli,

during the club’s 2025 premiership season. Crooks most recently coached Gisborne’s under-19 women’s side, taking the team through to the Essendon District Football League premier division preliminary final this year. The Wedgies said his appointment provides a strong transition for the club as it enters its second season as an independent women’s football club. Crooks said he was excited by the opportunity to join a club where women’s football was central to its identity. “I’m really looking forward to joining the Wedgies and the CVFL,” he said. “It’s a new club, a new league and a new challenge for me, which is something I’m really excited about.

“What really attracted me to the Wedgies is the opportunity to join a club where women’s football isn’t just a priority, it is the priority. “I’ve always believed women’s football should have the same focus, support and opportunities as any other part of a club, and I’m excited to be joining a club that shares that belief. “I’m looking forward to working with the players, building on what is already here and helping create an environment where players want to stay, develop and enjoy their football.” Eligh Blume will also continue with the Wedgies in 2027, supporting the playing group in conditioning, strength and player development alongside Crooks.

Wedgies’ president Natalie Korinfsky said the club was excited about the next chapter. “Ben knows a lot of our players, has a strong coaching approach and shares our belief that creating the right environment is just as important as what happens on the field. “We’re really pleased with his appointment and believe he will be a great addition to our club.” The Wedge-Tailed Eagles’ preparations for the 2027 season are now underway, with player development, recruitment and pre-season planning getting started. Players, volunteers and sponsors interested in getting involved with the Wedgies can contact the club at contact@thewedgies.com.au

Oliver Watt. (Supplied)

Watt returns to the Hawks

Peter Cashen. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 537377_04

Johnstone Shield a new challenge for Riddell By Tara Murray A new challenge started on a winning note for Riddell in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield. Having won the Jensen Shield premiership last season, the Bombers return to the Johnstone Shield for the first time in a number of years. President Brendon Johnson said the group was really excited to test themselves at the higher level, “There’s a core group there, three or four, who played in McIntyre a few years ago,” he said. “They are looking to step up to Johnstone Shield and have the challenge of playing other club’s first XIs every week.” The Bombers had a delayed start to the season, finally getting under way on Saturday. After round one was washed out, the Bombers had a bye in round two. Facing East Sunbury, the Bombers made 6-259. “I think one massive partnership set it up,” he said. “Peter Cashen and our coach

Hayden Castle set up a really good total and we were able to defend it.” Cashen made 107 off 91 balls, while Castle made 89 runs as they put on a nearly 200 run partnership. The Thunder took the game deep, finishing 9-222 with the innings finishing with seven balls remaining. Dylan Boorsma top scored with 62 not out. Castle and Connor Bowden took three wickets each for the Bombers. Johnson said to see them back it up with the ball afterwards was really pleasing. He said having only played one-day cricket and 40 over innings, it would be a bit of a change this season. The club’s second XI also got the win on Saturday. “It’s a small adjustment,” he said. “It’s an extra five overs each innings. “We haven’t played a lot of two-day cricket so it is an adjustment for us. We have a lot of experience in the first XI who have played two-day cricket when they were younger.” Johnson said their first aim this season was ensuring that they were competitive

week in, week out. “While we would like to play finals, we are realistic that this is a stepping stone,” he said. “Hopefully we can get a couple of wins on the board and be competitive and really look to challenge for the Johnstone Shield next year. “There’s no limits on what we can achieve.” Johnson said the club continues to grow after a number of tough years. He said they have two extra sides this season, an under-15 team and a third XI, which is a good side for the club. He said the club was still working hard to try and get a women’s side up and going in the longer term. The Bombers face Broadford in round four. In other results, Kilmore got the job done against Lancefield. Merrifield had a day out against the Sunbury Kangaroos to make it two from two. Diggers Rest Bulla is also undefeated after beating Broadford, while Eynesbury had the bye.

A Calder Cannons best and fairest winner is headed back to Woodend-Hesket for next year’s Riddell District Football League season. The Hawks announced that Ollie Watt would return to the club, having spent this year with Greenvale in the Essendon District Football League premier division. Watt played 18 games for the Jets, kicking nine goals and was named in the best seven times. It was his first full season of senior football, having won the Calder Cannons Talent League best and fairest in 2025. The Hawks said on social media the signing of Watt was a big one. “Ollie has built an impressive resume and spent the past season at EDFL premier league level with Greenvale. “A talented and highly regarded footballer, Ollie returns home with another year of quality senior football under his belt, bringing experience, skill and plenty of class to our senior side. “Having a home-grown player of Ollie’s calibre choose to return to the nest is a huge boost for our playing group and another exciting addition to what we are building for 2027.” The Hawks also announced the re-signing of Finlay Watt, Ollie’s brother. “His competitiveness, football ability, and strong connection to the club make him a valuable part of our senior side, and we’re excited to see him develop and take his game to another level,” the Hawks said. “And with Ollie back alongside him in 2027, we’re pretty excited to have both Watt brothers pulling on the brown and gold together.”

Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 19

SPORT

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Eliza Allen to lead Riddell By Tara Murray A familiar face will be in charge of Riddell for next year’s Riddell District Netball League season. The Bombers have appointed Eliza Allen as A-grade coach for next season, as they continue to build with a young group. Allen previously took the Bombers to a grand final many years ago, before returning in a coaching role this year. She coached the under-19 side to a grand final, while also helping out with the A-grade team which made a preliminary final. Allen, who has coached at higher levels and in the Victorian Netball League, said it was an easy decision to step into the coach-

ing role. “Both my girls are obviously playing, so it’s an easy fit,” she said. “I’m there and I’m happy to help out because it’s a great club and it’s my hometown.” Allen stepped away from coaching the Bombers last time when her children were young. Now with both girls part of the young group coming through, it has brought Allen back to the club where she is also a premiership player. Allen said there was a real community feel at the club. “I think it’s nice that Riddell does well,” she said. “I’m there because of my girls, it’s

so nice we’re all in one space. “We’re a tight-knit community. It’s really cool to see that a lot of these kids that have grown up at the footy club, the parents are now back together and our kids are playing whether across footy or netball.” Allen said she was always happy to step in and help where she was needed for the club which she did this year. The A-grade side was one of the youngest in the competition this year, but showed they could match it with the best. Allen said they would continue to build with that same group next year, with a few others set to get some opportunities as well. She said the decision of former coach Chris O’Sullivan, who moved to Queensland

mid-season this year, and the club to focus on youth had secured the club’s future for the next few years. “This year’s result was probably a little bit unexpected,” she said. “The girls connected. They were always at training and we always had the full A-grade team at training, working on some tactics and things to beat some of those higher profile clubs and players. “They really thrived on that and they really worked together, having all these local people and just great netballers. “There’s a little bit of expectation to perform as well next year. We want to show signs of improvement and be super competitive.”

Magpies win again

Justin Nelson. (Ties Urie) 584734 16

Roar’s new-look top order puts on a show By Tara Murray Sunbury produced the batting performance on Saturday it had been hoping for heading into the Victorian Turf Cricket Association McNamara Shield season. After recruiting heavily to strengthen its top order, the Roar was hoping that it would result in some improved batting performances after a finals appearance last year. After a tough first outing, the Roar showed on Saturday what its new top order can do against Newport-Digman. “It was really important for us,” coach Leo Italiano said of the performance with the bat. “We brought in some quality and believed in what they could do. We’ve seen what they’ve done at training. “We knew we had some good bats but we know that one score doesn’t make a summer.” Facing Newport-Digman, the Roar won the toss and decided to bat on its home

deck at Clarke Oval. The top order performed with Sunbury finishing with 2-278 from its 40 overs. Italiano said he couldn’t have asked for much more from the group, with score one of its best in recent times. “It was good to see them spend some time at the crease,” he said. “To put on 110 for the first wicket was unreal. Everyone seemed nervous and tense last week in their first games. “Bowlers, you get hit for six the first ball, you still get the rest of the overs. “As a batsman you don’t play your natural game and it can be unforgiving and one mistake costs you.” Justin Nelson scored 140 not out off 120 balls in his return to the Roar, having played at East Sunbury last season. Italiano said he didn’t think he had seen Nelson hit the ball as well as he did in that innings. Nathan Stubbings (33), Ashley McKinley (50) and Shaun Guerra (27 not out) all made contributions as well as part of the

20 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 October, 2026

new-look top order. The Roar then backed it up with the ball as they kept the Bulls to 6-144 from their overs. Stubbings was the only multiple wicket taker with two wickets, as nine players were given a bowl to share the load around. Italiano said Jason McGann was back to his best after he was disappointed with his opening round performance, while the return of opening bowler and vice-captain Jackson Treweek was a big inclusion for the Roar. Sunbury is back at home in round three against the Altona Roosters, who are winless after the first two rounds. With the Roosters dropping back into division 2 this season, it will be the first time that the two teams have played each other. Italiano said he had coached against them in the past. “We’ll get to work this week and do our research,” Italiano said. “It’s always exciting to play different teams that we haven’t played before.”

Wallan won the grand final rematch in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association women’s A-grade competition on Sunday. Facing Gisborne, the Magpies showed that they are still the team to beat this season. Batting first, the Magpies made 8-135 from their 30 overs with Megan Farrell top scoring with 64. The Dragons, who were playing their first game for the season after Macedon forfeited in round one, used 10 different bowlers. Tess Arthur, Ava Hyners and Ruby Watts took two wickets each. The Dragons were then bowled out for 119 in 25 overs. Skipper Brianna Woodburn top scored with 36. Melton Centrals also made it twofrom-two as it beat Macedon. Centrals made 2-123 from its overs with captain Kim Gasior top scoring with 41 not out. The Cats finished 4-62 in replay. Kellie Trotter scored 31 not out. Bacchus Marsh was the other winner on Sunday, as it beat Lancefield. The Cobras made 0-180 from their 20 overs. Sara Drew, Kim Bessell and Sarah Bamford all made half centuries. The Tigers finished 2-103 in reply. Emily Consiglio top scored with 46 not out. In the B-grade competition, new sides Diggers Rest Bulla, Sunbury Kangaroos and Sunbury United led the way early with two wins each along with East Sunbury. The Burras had a big win against Woodend. Woodend made 8-89 with Rachel Sliwinski top scoring with 37. Haley Forth took 4-16 for the Burras. The Burras openers then got the job done, finishing 0-91. Sunbury United was too strong for Broadford. After being sent in, the Bees made 4-120 from their overs with Kelsey McDonald scoring 50 not out at the top of the order. The Bees then restricted Broadford to 6-97. The Kangaroos came away with the points against the Western Lions. The Lions made 5-80 as they had just seven players listed on the team sheet. Lisa Kirby took two wickets for the Kangaroos. The Kangaroos finished 1-81 in reply with Kirby top scoring with 26. East Sunbury finished 1-93 in reply to Rupertswood’s 6-92.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Moore back at Sky Blues By Tara Murray

it.

Gisborne Soccer Club holds a special part in Danny Moore’s heart and he didn’t hesitate to come back as the club’s senior men’s coach next season. Moore, who coached the Sky Blues for four years previously, returns to the club and will step back into the coaching role after Rizwan Reddy stood down from the role. Moore said it was pretty exciting to come back to Gisborne. “I can’t wait to be honest,” he said. The opportunity came up when the current coach had to step down for family reasons. “The opportunity came up and I reached out to the club … kind of moved pretty quickly and I had the opportunity to go for

“Threw my hat in the ring and I was fortunate to get the role. “I’m really excited.” Moore, who has held a number of different roles since being at Gisborne, said some time off from coaching at the back end of this year allowed him time to reflect where his coaching career was headed. Moore said coming back to Gisborne feels like home. “I enjoyed my time so much up there over the four years I was coaching previously,” he said. “I coached during that Covid period as well, which was really tough and challenging. We got through that together, testament to the people I was there with at the time.

“We had a good successful year postCovid. “I feel there’s a little bit of unfinished business there from what we achieved there previously and what the opportunity presented itself now. “But the key one for me was that it felt like home.” Moore said the chance to work with people he already had relationships with both on and off the field was a key part of coming back as well. Gisborne finished this year in seventh in the FV state league 7 north-west competition. With a lot of young talent in the club, the future is bright. Moore said there’s lots to be motivated

about. “It’s another drawcard for me,” he said. “I know players, I know senior players. “I’ve had conversations and the consistent feedback is that there’s lots of really great young talent at the club now. “For me, it’s how I can make a positive influence with that group and where I can take that. “The possibilities are quite endless on what we can achieve.” Moore said they had now locked in some pre-season dates and try and get the group back together before Christmas. “I think it’s a really bright future for the club,” he said. “I think they are in a really good place at the moment and I want to be part of it.”

Sports shorts RDFL Mitch Caddy will play with Riddell next year in the Riddell District Football League. Caddy joins the club from Drysdale in the Bellarine Football League, but has played at a number of clubs including Melton South, Melton Centrals and Romsey. The Bombers said on social media that Caddy brings a heap of experience and power to win the footy as a midfielder.

Ballarat FL The Sunbury Lions have signed two more players who are returning to the club. Jackson Wadden joins the club from Riddell where he has shown the ability to impact the game at both ends of the ground. “A tall, running player who can take a big grab and hurt opposition with his long kicking, Jacko will add plenty of versatility and firepower to our side,” he said. Lachie Urbon returns to the Lions from Bundoora in the Northern Football League. “A genuine utility and high flyer, Lachie is the type of player who can impact the game anywhere on the ground,” the Lions said.

EDFL Warren Else. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 535888_13

Woodend continues on where it left off By Tara Murray Woodend has picked up where it left off last season with back-to-back wins to start the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup season. Last season’s premiers have shown some strong form early on as they aim to be among the contenders again this season. Coach Josh Eastley said they had kept most of the premiership group together which was a good base for this year. “James Morley had been a reliable player who has gone to Ballan, but other than that we have kept 90 per cent of our players,” he said. “Jacques [Du Toit] is back over for another year and we rely on his experience and that is exciting for us. “We lost a little bit of depth. Oliver Price isn’t playing this year, but Callum Large has come in and is a like-for-like replacement. “They are both talented young batsmen.” On Saturday, Woodend came away with a hard-fought win against Rupertswood. Eastley said it hadn’t been a bad start to

the season. “We’re still missing a couple of players with injuries and hopefully we’ll get them back throughout the year.” Eastley said they knew it would be a tough challenge against Rupertswood. After winning the toss, Rupertswood was bowled out for 155. Joey Boulton top scored with 40 at the top of the order. Eastley and Warren Else took three wickets each for Woodend. “We did the job with the ball to bowl them out for 155,” Eastley said. “We would have taken that at the start of the day. “We set a good platform with the bat before losing a few wickets. We were fortunate for our bowling efforts.” Hayden Ingleton (25 not out), who came in at number nine, was able to stick around with Else (41 not out) to get the job done. Woodend finished 7-158, getting the winning runs with nine balls remaining. Eastley said their batting depth would be a key for them this season. “Hayden has been a top order bat the last couple of years,” he said. “He’s come in to do a job for us with the

ball this year. Harry Sheahan was still to come in and he opened the batting for us a few games last year. “We need to make the most of it in games like this.” Now coming into the season as reigning premiers, Eastley said not much changed having been up the top for the past few seasons. He said they welcome being one of the sides that are the hunted and embrace the challenge. Woodend will face Sunbury United this Saturday in round four. The Bees come into the match after beating Macedon in a thriller. The Cats made 6-189 from their overs with Cameron Clayton top scoring with 94 not out. The Bees made the runs with five balls remaining, finishing 8-190. Upul Fernando top scored with 58. Elsewhere, Gisborne made it two from two as it beat Romsey. The Redbacks were bowled out for 148, with the Dragons finishing 2-151 in reply. Eastern Hill got its first McIntyre Cup win as it beat Wallan.

East Sunbury has strengthened its squad for next year’s Essendon District Football League season. Ethan Caffari joins the Thunder with the club saying he’s a highly skilled footballer with an exciting burst of pace, Ruck Ryder Rousch also joins the club. “A 200 centimetre ruckman who can also make his mark up forward, Ryder is an exciting young star with a big future ahead,” the Thunder said. “His signing is a strong statement about our club’s direction as we build a talented young group capable of delivering sustained success.” Thomas Schwarzenberg returns to the club having previously made his senior debut at 17.

RDFL Macedon has announced the signing of Cam Osmond for the Riddell District Football League 2027 season. Osmond joins the club from Seymour where he spent the past two seasons, having previously spent time at Lancefield.

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

Tuesday, 20 October, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 21

CASH FOR UNWANTED GOLD & JEWELLERY! Turn your unwanted jewellery and gold and precious items into CASH

We buy all gold Jewellery, Antiques & Contemporary Jewellery Diamonds, Silver Jewellery, Gold Sovereign Coins and other coins, Precious Stones, Including Broken Jewellery and Watches and unusual Items.

Your Questions Answered

HOW DO I DO THIS? Show your items to our expert buyers. After we have calculated the price based on its value, you can then decide to sell them to us or just walk away with a free assessment of your jewellery!

WHY SELL? Is it worth keeping old jewellery that you will never wear again? The extra cash may help now or in the future rather than unwanted jewellery sitting in your drawer!

“Your jewellery may be worth a lot more than what you think!”

ONE DAY ONLY!

Wednesday 28th October - 11am to 3pm

Sunbury Community Centre 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury VIC

Ph : 0481 290 411