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Sunbury Macedon Ranges Star Weekly - 19th May 2020

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MAY 19, 2020 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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Golfers back on the green Goonawarra Golf Club has “weathered the initial storm”, according to the club’s chairman Hans van Pelt. Last week, the state government announced the irst relaxation of lockdown rules, which included a lift on outdoor sport and recreational activity. Now golfers can get back on the green and tee off in Victoria, with a maximum of 10 people and maintaining social distancing. Mr van Pelt said easing restrictions on golf bans was a positive step. However, he was concerned about how the club bounced back after an almost seven-week closure. Mr van Pelt said he was wary of the economic impact coronavirus may have on club memberships come June. “The wellbeing of the club is reliant on how many memberships renew,” he said. Mr van Pelt said he was looking forward to playing his irst game of golf in six weeks. “We invite people to come up and have a game – jump on the website to make a booking.” Details: bit.ly/3fzrd8R Jessica Micallef

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McDonald’s shuts stores By Jessica Micallef Sunbury McDonald’s is one of 12 restaurants across Melbourne’s north-west to be shut down for deep cleaning following a truck driver testing positive to COVID-19. A McDonald’s spokeperson on Sunday night said the truck driver was employed by an external service provider and had made deliveries to the 12 restaurants, interacting with a small number of McDonald’s employees at each store, while asymptomatic. No other employees had tested positive for the virus. he Department of Health and Human

Services (DHHS) has identiied the driver as a workplace close contact of a Craigieburn McDonald’s employee who tested positive for the virus last Friday. “Potential close contacts and employees who have worked speciic shits during and ater the truck driver’s delivery have been instructed not to return to work for 14 days and advised to be tested,” a McDonald’s spokesperson said. “Out of an abundance of caution, we have made the decision to close and conduct a deep clean of 12 restaurants.” Restaurants closed are Sunbury, Melton East, Taylors Lakes, Calder Highway northbound/ outbound and southbound/inbound,

Campbellield, Riverdale Village, BP Rockbank Service Centre outbound, Laverton North, Yallambie, Hoppers Crossing and Sandown. he number of COVID-19 cases across Hume and the Macedon Ranges has increased to 61 across the two municipalities. According to DHHS, there were 53 cases in Hume as of Sunday. hirteen of those cases were active, the second highest number of active cases across the state. In the Macedon Ranges, cases remained steady at eight. One of those cases was active. In Victoria, there are 1561 conirmed COVID-19 cases. here have been more than 160 conirmed cases in the state that may

have been acquired through community transmission. Last week, the state government announced the irst relaxation of lockdown rules. Victorians can now have up to ive family members and friends visit their home, sport and recreational activity is allowed in groups of 10 people with social distancing in place. he state’s chief health oicer Brett Sutton said while it was encouraging that Victorians can begin a cautious path to normality, now was not the time to indulge in “risky” behaviour. He said the continued increase in cases illustrated that the battle against COVID-19 was far from over.

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Ranges coronavirus jobs boost Almost 100 new temporary staf will be employed at Macedon Ranges council in coming weeks, as part of the state government’s Working for Victoria program. he 92 additional short-term staf will be employed in remote workforce roles across the Macedon Ranges such as community support, providing food services, catering for vulnerable people, planting and environment works at Hanging Rock and beautiication works in parks and gardens.

he council’s chief executive Margot Stork said she was looking forward to welcoming the new staf on board and providing them with meaningful work. “hese temporary new workers are our fellow Victorians who are out of work due to the pandemic and through no fault of their own,” she said. “We’ve identiied a range of short-term roles above and beyond our normal program of work to help with pandemic-related work such as assisting vulnerable members of the community.

“As the level of government which is closest to the community, we are well placed to know what residents and businesses need to get back on their feet.” he $500 million Working for Victoria program is part of the state government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. he program matches people who have lost their jobs due to the economic impacts of the virus with local councils. Macedon Ranges council is one of 28 councils across the state participating in the new program. he council has encouraged

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Josie Ginty and budgie Astro. (Supplied)

rehoming of companion animals in Australia. As part of the awards, Astro’s story featured online and on social media. “Sharing Astro’s story and seeing him amongst all those other incredible rescue stories was a really amazing experience,” Ms Ginty said. Ms Ginty said that ater graduating, she hopes to go into the mixed practice veterinary 12438263-DL15-20

Budgerigar Astro had a broken wing and was scared of people when he arrived at the RSPCA last year. Astro spent ive weeks under the care of veterinarians before Werribee’s Josie Ginty saw a photo of him online and “fell in love”. Ms Ginty, a inal year veterinary student at the University of Melbourne, adopted Astro last April. Under Ms Ginty’s care, Astro has blossomed into a “handsome boy” who loves treats, sunbaking and singing. Ms Ginty said she trained Astro, using positive reinforcement, to help him get used to being handled. “My goal was to associate good things with my presence, like treats, toys, and music to sing along with,” she said. “Astro was also healing from a broken wing when I irst got him, so he had to learn to climb up on my hand whenever he gets trapped somewhere and can’t ly away. “He’s still always a bit grumpy about needing help, but will accept it if he needs it.” Ms Ginty said she was passionate about encouraging people to adopt birds and other exotic pets from animal rescue organisations. “I think these kinds of pets can be very misunderstood,” she said. “Since you can buy them cheaply from places like Gumtree, people think these animals are disposable and the ‘it’s only worth $10’ mindset can be really detrimental to pet care. “I’m not saying those sellers are inherently bad, but it makes it really easy for someone to buy a pet on a whim, and not have the knowledge, inances or time to care for that pet. “Ultimately, compared to private sellers, rescue centres don’t have an ulterior motive – they don’t just want to sell that pet, they want the best home for it too.” Ms Ginty and Astro last year entered the annual Jetpets Companion Animal Rescue Awards, and were named a inalist in the People’s Rescue Story category. he awards, managed by Pets4Life, recognise achievements in the rescue, rehabilitation and

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ield, which means working with all animals. “At the university clinic I do have a bit of a reputation for enjoying working with budgies though,” she said. Entries to the Jetpets Companion Animal Rescue Awards close at midnight on July 19. Details: www.rescueawards.com.au

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A huge $34.8 million has not been fed into poker machines across Macedon Ranges and Hume since the COVID-19 pandemic forced a shutdown of venues. According to the Alliance for Gambling Reform’s chief advocate, Tim Costello, the igure equates to more than $26,000 a day saved in Macedon Ranges and $300,000 a day saved in Hume since the March 23 shutdown of all pubs and clubs. Reverend Costello said the huge savings demonstrated the impact poker machines have on the municipalities’ economy and communities. “It has been awful reading about the lives lost to COVID-19 around Australia and my heart goes out to the people who have been afected,” he said. “We also feel tremendously deeply for the people of the Macedon Ranges and Hume who have lost their jobs through this … crisis. “But the shutdown of poker machines in the Macedon Ranges and Hume has undoubtedly improved the lives for many people for the better, and perhaps even saved local lives. Reverend Costello said a serious rethink on how the gambling industry will play a part in society ater the coronavirus pandemic is over was necessary. “We can come out of this crisis with a real positive if we can signiicantly reduce gambling harm. “It will provide billions of dollars to be spent in our economy at a time when we need it most. he beneits of keeping poker machines of are myriad, far outweighing any supposed beneit in turning them back on.” Jessica Micallef

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it’s casual staf members to register for the Working for Victoria initiative. Many of the council’s casual staf members normally work in centres and facilities across the municipality which have been closed since the onset of the pandemic. Meanwhile, Hume council has submitted a proposal to the state government to employ 160 people through the program. Under Hume’s proposal, priority would be given to locals and council employees in need of work. Details: vic.gov.au/workingforvictoria

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A 44-year-old Lanceield man has been charged after Gisborne police executed a search warrant at a Lanceield property on May 5. A number of allegedly stolen items were seized during the search including excavators, a ski boat, two motorcycles, two motorcars, multiple heavy haulage trailers and a zero-turn mower. Police estimate the items to be valued at more than $300,000. The man will appear at the Melbourne Magistrates Court in September.

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Five-year-old Cooper with his favourite garbage truck driver Ron Swain. (Supplied)

It’s bin a great birthday Bin day is Cooper’s favourite day of the week. he ive-year-old Sunbury boy spends his Wednesday mornings eating his breakfast at the front window of his house, patiently waiting for his favourite garbage truck driver Ron Swain to collect his family’s rubbish with a smile and a wave. Earlier this month, Cooper was delighted with a special surprise. To celebrate Cooper’s ith birthday, his mum Erin Henderson contacted Hume council to arrange a dedicated birthday wave and a happy birthday shout-out from Mr Swain. “I knew that would make his [Cooper’s] day,” she said. “For the last couple of years, Ron has waved to him every Wednesday.” Earlier this month, Mr Swain pulled up to

Cooper’s house with a few goodies in hand. To top it of, Cooper got to sit in the driver’s seat of the garbage truck. “He handed Cooper a little git bag and a card,” Ms Henderson said. “Cooper looked in his git bag and there were two little toy bins. he bins were topped with chocolates. He opened his birthday card and there was $10. “I was gobsmacked. Cooper was very happy. his had made his whole year.” Ms Henderson said her son has always had a love of trucks and garbage bins and enjoyed bringing in the neighbours’ bins. “hey’ll leave their bins out because they know Cooper is going to put them away,” she said.

Hume council is running free immunisation sessions for year 7 and 10 students. Due to current school closures, the council will be running the sessions at Sunbury, Craigieburn and Broadmeadows until Friday, May 29. Students will require consent from a parent or guardian before any vaccine is given. To book an appointment and for more details, phone 9356 6745.

Virtual council meetings Hume council meetings are now being livestreamed. The meetings will be livestreamed from the council’s website and audio recordings of each meeting will be made available online 48 hours after the meeting’s conclusion. To watch a meeting, visit: hume.vic.gov.au/ Homepage FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Wastewater project tracks virus By Jessica Micallef Samples of wastewater from Sunbury and surrounding suburbs are being used in a project to monitor coronavirus. Western Water is taking weekly water samples from the Sunbury and Melton recycled water plants to be sent to a Melbourne laboratory where they will be stored until testing methodology is developed. According to Western Water, the project could provide health authorities with evidence of how efective measures to slow the spread of

coronavirus have been. he Sunbury and Melton treatment plants cover a large cross-section of the Western Water service region including Sunbury, Diggers Rest, Melton, Eynesbury and Rockbank. Western Water’s acting chief operating oicer Paul Clark said although worldwide and local research indings had shown that detected traces of COVID-19 found in sewage and recycled water networks are not infectious, the project would provide key data for scientists to better understand the virus. “he community beneits of this project

cannot be underestimated,” he said. “his research will help track and monitor the virus across our service region and allow scientists to gather information on how it behaves in the wastewater network. “It’s important that we use all the tools at our disposal to determine how this virus works and what we can do to protect customers and communities we serve.” Meanwhile, samples of sewerage taken from the Western Treatment Plant in Werribee are also being used to identify potential clusters of coronavirus infections.

Melbourne Water chief scientist Dr Melita Stevens said the surveillance of wastewater for the virus was an “exciting and signiicant” step. “his sampling could potentially identify emerging or re-emergent outbreaks, better characterise the extent of asymptomatic infections and community transmission, identify the true peak in infected individuals [compared with conirmed cases] within a sewer catchment and conirm ‘clearance’ of the COVID-19 virus from an area,” Dr Stevens said.

Spreading the warmth Sunbury Winter Night Shelter committee members are showing their appreciation to volunteers with a smile and a wave. he three-month shelter initiative provided homeless people with a place to sleep in local churches from June to August last year. Now, the shelter’s project co-ordinator Chris Morgan-Prosser is saying ‘thank you’ to the 200 volunteers who helped out – just in time for National Volunteer Week. “In Sunbury alone, there are so many things that are run by regular people who just volunteer their time and don’t expect a thank you. “We are showing our appreciation by … doing a drawing with a waving hand and a smiley face and by putting something on our website.” he Sunbury Winter Night Shelter is “100 per cent” organised by volunteers who dedicated their time to cooking meals and providing

those who may be doing it tough with some fellowship. his year’s Sunbury Winter Night Shelter won’t be able to go ahead because of COVID-19 restrictions. However, the committee is asking for donations through the Red Shield Appeal to help those in need. All money raised goes towards supporting the shelter. To donate: bit.ly/2WsiZrF National Volunteer Week is from May 18 to May 24. For details about volunteering, visit: sunburywintershelter.org.au Jessica Micallef

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Centrelink debt warning By Jessica Micallef A Sunbury family is urging others to review Centrelink claims ater being hit with an almost $60,000 debt. he family, which does not want to be identiied, has received family assistance payments since 2004. On April 28, they received three separate letters from Centrelink, demanding payments totalling $57,006.

“To receive these letters was terribly upsetting … my partner had recently lost his job as a graduate teacher,” a family spokeswoman said. “I was the sole supporter of our family of three children and a mortgage.” he spokeswoman said the family had repaid almost $2000 to Centrelink in February because the agency claimed they had been overpaid. “hat’s why it didn’t seem right to me when we received the debt letters for over $57,000.”

he woman said she contacted Centrelink immediately but “reached a dead end”. “I was placed on hold for an hour … only to be told by the lady I spoke to that she was unable to tell me why I had acquired the debt,” she said. Unable to get answers, the woman reached out to McEwen MP Rob Mitchell to help. She said on May 1, the family received written conirmation from Centrelink that the

debt had been wiped. She said Centrelink said the three notices had been automatically issued in error ater an estimate of the family income was incorrectly used instead of the actual reported income. he family has raised their plight hoping it will help others in a similar situation. “I believe this practice of sending letters of debt without explanation to be unethical and needs to change” the family spokeswoman said.

No sign of media grants

Northern Hospital staff formed a guard of honour. (Supplied)

Hospital rallies to thank nurses Nurses arriving for work at Northern Hospital last Tuesday were greeted by a guard of honour to mark International Nurses Day. he day, which is held annually on the anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth, recognises the contribution of nurses in caring for the community. Northern Health’s chief nursing and midwifery oicer, Debra Bourne said this year’s International Nurses Day was more important than ever given the COVID-19 pandemic. he World Health Organisation also declared

2020 as the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife. “I am very proud of our nurses. his pandemic has demonstrated that nurses have the ability to step up, step into areas they don’t usually work in and develop new models of care, while keeping the humanity of patient care,” Ms Bourne said. “Many of our nurses are undertaking additional training and education to provide the best possible care for our patients.” Northern Health staf at the Bundoora,

Broadmeadows and Craigieburn sites also took time to honour their nursing colleagues by presenting gits and organising live music. Among the nurses recognised last week was emergency department and neonatal unit nurse Stephanie Grey, who was delivered by Ms Bourne 24 years ago. Ms Grey started working at Northern Hospital in 2016 and was noticed by Ms Bourne during graduate orientation. Laura Michell

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6 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 19 May, 2020

A federal government grants program aimed at supporting regional and community media outlets during the COVID-19 pandemic has been labelled as “inadequate” by Labor. Last month, the federal government announced a $50 million Public Interest News Gathering (PING) grants program in response to the economic impact of the coronavirus crisis on newsrooms across the country. But Labor’s communications spokeswoman, Michelle Rowland said the grants program – and its administration – proved the government was out of touch with the needs of the media industry. “he PING is late, it is inadequate, it is confused and it undermines press freedom and the public’s right to know by putting the minister at the centre of grants approvals,” Ms Rowland said. “he minister should have no role in determining winners and losers when it comes to the survival of media outlets.” Ms Rowland said the PING grants program was established almost a year ater the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) recommended the government replace its Regional and Small Publishers Innovation Fund with a targeted grants program. “he opening of the PING also comes over ive weeks ater Labor wrote to the deputy prime minister requesting COVID-19 relief funding for regional and community media. It will again be weeks before successful applicants are announced and funding lows,” she said. “he media is essential, not a service that should go into hibernation during COVID-19. Unfortunately, we have already seen suspensions and closures of local news gathering.”


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Police crackdown on warrants By Jessica Micallef Hume Police Inspector Anthony Brown is calling on people who may have an outstanding warrant to come forward. Inspector Brown said police are trying to execute as many outstanding warrants as possible across Hume. “We are rostering available units to attend people’s addresses and try and locate them,” he said. “he majority of these warrants will be re-bailed to a court date in the future. It’s a

matter of getting the people to deal with them. “Sometimes people are hard to ind and deliberately avoid the police … we want people to come forward and get their matters dealt with.” Inspector Brown said there were a number of outstanding warrants across Hume, with the majority of warrants relating to individuals failing to appear at court deliberately or accidentally. “here are always outstanding warrants. It’s a bit of a churn,” he said.

“We execute some and there is more issued by the courts for diferent reasons. “From my perspective, once they do fail to appear at court, they tend to get worried about what to do. “I’d always advise them to seek legal advice in most circumstances and then encourage them to come forward and deal with the matters so they are not placing themselves at risk of being detained overnight or arrested by a random check. “At least this gives them the opportunity to

Triple-0 always on duty

Northern Hospital toxicologist Joe Rotella. (Supplied)

Student now the master A former Northern Hospital medical student has returned to the hospital to take up the role as its irst toxicologist. Dr Joe Rotella started as a medical student at the hospital in 2007 and went on to become an intern and resident. He has since worked as the clinical informatics director and assistant director of education at other health services, before returning to Northern Hospital last month. According to Northern Health, Dr Rotella is just one of 10 toxicologists in Victoria. Dr Rotella said his predominant role is as an emergency department physician but his passion is clinical toxicology.

control the timing.” Inspector Brown said individuals would know if they have an outstanding warrant if they have been summoned to court and have not appeared. He is encouraging anyone who may have an outstanding warrant or suspect they have one, to contact their local police station and arrange to meet police in person to deal with the matter. “In the majority of cases this will simply mean handing yourself into the station and being bailed to a date in the future,” he said.

“Toxicologists are medical specialists who look ater patients for whom poisoning is an issue. Most typically we see patients who have overdosed,” he said. “Other patients we might see are paediatrics – kids are very good at exploring surroundings and getting into places their parents think they might not be able to get into, so we do also look ater a lot of accidental overdoses.” As part of his role as a toxicologist, Dr Rotella also covers toxinology – the management of snake bites, spider bites and marine envenomation. “We also see and treat patients who have been poisoned with heavy metals. hey are rare but

there are cases we have managed in previous years of lead and arsenic particularly. So we cover a pretty broad spectrum,” Dr Rotella said. Dr Rotella, who grew up in the northern suburbs, said studies have shown that when a toxicologist assists in the management of emergency department patients, their length of stay in hospital is reduced. “Part of my coming across to Northern is to explore opportunities in that space. Northern Health sees a very diverse group of patients culturally, as well as from a medical point of view,” he said.

Ambulance Victoria is urging people not to be afraid to call triple-0 in an emergency, following a signiicant drop in demand for paramedics as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ambulance Victoria metropolitan regional director Chris James said that while people should be applauded for seeking help from their GP or pharmacist when they are unwell and don’t need an ambulance or hospital care, those in the community with pre-existing conditions should not let the pandemic deter them from calling for help. “We are concerned, particularly for the elderly and those with pre-existing heart or respiratory conditions who may need us but aren’t calling,” Mr James said. “We’ve seen around a 30 per cent decrease in call-outs in recent weeks and are concerned that members of the community may be frightened to call an ambulance for fear of COVID-19, or just don’t want to be a burden on us during a pandemic. “If people have health concerns, such as an onset of shortness of breath, chest pains, facial drooping or weakness, for example, they must dial triple-0. “Every second counts when it comes to respiratory or cardiac conditions, or stroke. If a patient doesn’t need a lights and sirens ambulance, we will ind the right care for that patient at that time.” Mr James said Ambulance Victoria has been preparing for COVID-19 since mid-January and had enough ambulances and paramedics to meet demand. “here’s a time to be stoic, and it’s not during a health emergency. hat’s a time to call triple-0,” he said. Laura Michell

Laura Michell

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Drivers not up to speed on risks By Tate Papworth here may be fewer cars on the road, but it hasn’t translated to drivers taking fewer risks, the Australian Road Safety Foundation (ARSF) has revealed. One third of drivers have admitted to taking increased road risks since the implementation of COVID-19 lockdowns, according to ARSF research into regional driver behaviour. ARSF believes the risk-taking is likely driven by the fact that half of the surveyed drivers believe the roads are safer under current conditions. According to the research, speeding is already the most common road rule broken, with three quarters of the drivers admitting to being heavy-footed. Under COVID-19 lockdown conditions, speeding ofences have increased by 18 per cent. Brimbank Highway Patrol Sergeant Bill Joannidis said while less cars on the road meant less ofenders, it had also resulted in a spike in excessive speeding. “he main thing we’ve seen is when traic is very low and the freeways are nice and clear, particularly in what is normally peak hour, people are going incredibly quick,” Sergeant Joannidis said. “We’ve had a number of impounds and very high speeds detected.” According to the ARSF, other risks being taken during lockdown include using a mobile phone while driving (14 per cent higher) and running a stop sign (six per cent higher). ARSF founder Russell White warned there is never an excuse to be taking risks on or around the roads. “Sadly, with fewer cars on the roads during coronavirus, we’re seeing an increase in bad driver behaviour, which is unacceptable,” Mr

d Publishe Tuesday

Senior Constable Cameron R. Manniche takes part in a police blitz on trucks on the Calder Freeway. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 208605

White said. “Claims research from Suncorp Insurance between 2015 and 2019 shows that approximately 30 per cent of accidents occur in the driver’s own postcode, proving that even a short trip to the shops can be disastrous. “For every road death, another 35 Australians are hospitalised.”

he research also revealed that only two per cent of the surveyed drivers think about the safety of other road users when behind the wheel. In addition, more than three quarters of regional Victorian drivers admit to breaking a road law, with the most common excuses including not paying attention (39 per cent), a

brief lapse in judgement (35 per cent), or simply believing it was ‘safe’ to do so (20 per cent). While it is expected that the road toll would relect the minimal vehicles on the road, the national year-to-date road toll has only declined by 12.5 per cent compared to the same period last year.

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THANK YOU For the way we’ve faced these past few weeks. With courage. With humility. And with hope. We’ve kept our distance, we’ve looked out for each other and we’ve kept our cool. Thank you especially to those who have been tested. Because of your efforts, we’ve achieved the biggest testing blitz in our state’s history. Or to use Victoria’s standard unit of measurement – more than one MCG’s worth of Victorians who’ve played their part in protecting our state. Thanks to you, we are finding out more about the spread of coronavirus in our community. If you haven’t been tested, and you are feeling unwell, you can still visit one of the regional clinics or speak to your GP. To find out how and where you can be tested go to vic.gov.au/CORONAVIRUS Because getting tested keeps us together.

visit vic.gov.au/CORONAVIRUS Authorised and published by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

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10 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 19 May, 2020


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FEATURE

Phill and Catherine Abram from Wyndham Salvos. (Damjan Janevski) 208525_01

It takes an army Each May, volunteers from the Salvation Army hit the streets of Melbourne with donation tins to raise money for the annual Red Shield Appeal. But the coronavirus crisis has forced this year’s doorknock online, writes Laura Michell. he annual appeal is the Salvation Army’s main fundraiser, with donations going towards the organisation’s social and community services. Craigieburn Salvation Army captain Pete Brookshaw says the Salvos made the decision to hold a digital fundraiser this year because the COVID-19 pandemic meant volunteers wouldn’t be unable to door knock or collect donations at shopping centres and key intersections. He is urging anyone who is able to make a donation to do so online. “he Salvation Army always lends a hand to the most vulnerable in our community, so even though these are diicult times, our aim is to ofer hope and support to people in need,” he says. “Right now, we are working with our local community, as we have always done, to ensure that we leave no one in need.” he Salvation Army runs a number of initiatives to support the Craigieburn community, including a breakfast program at four schools, community lunches, a food van, and welfare services. Mr Brookshaw estimates that the Craigieburn Salvos served 20,000 cheese toasties to school children last year. He says the demand for help has increased each week as more people begin to experience inancial pressure as a result of the pandemic. “Our welfare service is busier than ever. “We have new people accessing our service who have not done so before. We welcome anyone who is in need to give us a call as this is a diicult time for people.” he Wyndham Salvation Army is experiencing a similar surge in demand for help. Captains Phill and Catherine Abram and their team of volunteers have been providing emergency relief, food, and assistance in paying bills to anyone who reaches out for help. he Wyndham Salvos are also providing takeaway lunches every Tuesday, Wednesday

Craigieburn Salvation Army captain Peter Brookshaw is urging residents to donate online. (Damjan Janevski) 208382_02

and hursday instead of their traditional community meals. “It’s all hands on deck for us. We’re an essential service,” Mrs Abram says. “We have been doing online [food] vouchers for people who access our support and don’t have transport. “We are seeing people who have never had to access services before, they have never been on welfare before – it is an unknown for them.” Mrs Abrams says the Red Shield Appeal is more important this year than ever before. “More than ever, we need people’s continued generosity,” she says. “We are struggling as a lot of our income

source is from our op shop, which is not open. “Even if everybody gave $2, what a diference that would make. We are really calling for every community group to get on board, as well as individuals.” According to Salvation Army Lieutenant Star Conlife, the Red Shield Appeal allows the Salvos to target their support programs to meet the needs of their local community. Ms Conlife says the Hobsons Bay Salvos used money raised last year to construct a small food trailer to help out with their food relief program. While construction of the trailer was put on

hold as a result of COVID-19, the Salvos are hopeful it will be up and running soon. Ms Conlife says social distancing has forced the Hobsons Bay Salvation Amry to rethink how it ofers support to the community. She says all support services have changed to no contact, while a weekly soup van service has morphed into a meal delivery service that provides food to about 50 people each week. “By being lexible, we have been able to help more people.” To donate to the Red Shield Appeal, visit, https://digitaldoorknock.salvationarmy.org. au/ and search for your local Salvos.

11 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 19 May, 2020


FEATURE STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Pets in pandemic times Pets always bring a smile to your face, even in the most diicult times. While many of us have been staying at home a lot more than usual during the coronavirus pandemic, the dogs and cats of Melbourne’s north and west have been keeping us company while we work from home or motivating us to go outside for exercise. hey have proven to be the ideal companions during these trying times. Here are some of the cute canines and felines owned by Star Weekly readers.

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1/ Wyndham mayor Josh Gilligan’s dog Hugo. 2/ Kimba, the 10- year-old ragdoll, loves sleeping under a blanket. 3/ Zephyr and his best friend, Bubbles. 4/ Pippa relaxing on a brand new knitted blanket. 5/ Estelle with new British shorthair kitten Lulu. 6/ Lenyx and Zelda snooze while their owner teaches remotely. 7/ Dog Cliff and Alice enjoy walking. 8/ Dog Digger, playing in the trampoline with Luke and Kate. 9/ St Bernard Loki stays healthy. 10/ Milo the dog and Ace. 11/ Walter decided to gear up and bring home the bacon during Covid-19! 12/ Norm, a six-month-old Sharpei who has turned into a bookworm during isolation. 13/ Charm the cat. 14/ Dog Brax, with young Hope. 15/ Kristen Lange with pet Arnie, helping her work from home during lockdown. 16/ Dog Ziggy and Dakota. 17/ Gino is loving having his owner home. 18/ Greyhound Sandi. 19/ Dobby looking out the window. 20/ Bonnie the cavoodle is loving having the family home working and home schooling during isolation. 21/ Dog Jet not a fan of costumes but brothers Zac, 11, and Ryley, 14, love dressing him up. 22/ Marnie is 18 months-old and Ziggy, nine, is her constant cat companion. 23/ Dog Luna got a bit tired so Chelsea had to carry her. 13 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 19 May, 2020


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Come Back Stronger! Dear local business partners, The Coronavirus has triggered a major economic shock, and local businesses are doing it tough. However, throughout history when transformational shocks to the economy occur, they always create opportunity too. In times of crisis, we need to push panic aside and make calm, clearheaded decisions – and look for OPPORTUNITY! • The JobKeeper and JobSeeker payments will assist in supporting the local economy. • Initial surveys show much of this stimulus money will be spent locally. • Restrictions are slowly easing, so expect consumers to be more active. • The restrictions have created pent up consumer demand across our region. • Demand for local consumer goods and services is likely to be higher than normal, given continued severe restrictions in other sectors. • For some, this could provide a greater opportunity to spend. There is plenty of opportunity! And the businesses that are most proactive will seize it. It may seem counter-intuitive, but there has never been a better or more important time to work on your next marketing move. Our team can help you engage with thousands of locals through our printed and digital newspapers, news websites, social channels and provide tools to enhance your online presence! Now is the time to plan and act! We’re ready to help businesses design and implement marketing campaigns that tap into local opportunities. No obligation, just trusted advice! Call us NOW on 8318 5727 or email your needs to westads@starweekly.com.au we’d like to help you COME BACK STRONGER! Regards, Ben Sutton Sales Director Star Weekly ben.sutton@starweekly.com.au

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FEATURE

Life after lockdown Will workplaces ever be the same? Catie Norman, a workers’ compensation solicitor from Shine Lawyers in Sunshine, explains what employees should expect. his will be easier to achieve in the oice environment because many workers will be able to continue doing their jobs from home and are already making use of platforms like Skype and Zoom. In a factory setting, employers may need to stagger lunch breaks.

As Victorians prepare for a gradual easing of lockdown restrictions, it would be a mistake to think our working lives will revert back to normal. he coronavirus pandemic has torn up the rulebook and accelerated changes that would have otherwise taken decades to achieve.

Are video meetings the new normal? Once this is over, will everyone return to the oice or factory loor?

I think teleconferencing has proven to be cost-efective and will remain popular beyond the pandemic. We’ve always known this, of course, but COVID-19 has accelerated the uptake of this technology. Employers have learned that businesses can continue to operate successfully without requiring everyone to be in the same room. Having said that, the Australian Tourism Industry Council believes business travel will return because humans are social beings and some transactions require face-to-face interaction.

I tend to agree with the consultancy irm KPMG, which predicts working from home is here to stay. hat won’t be the reality for everyone but COVID-19 forced Australians to adjust to a new way of doing things and for many the beneits are obvious. Corporations will save money on oice space by only requiring skeleton crews to work on-site and the rise of automation will increasingly mean production in factories and warehouses can be managed remotely. his will enable many employees to continue working from home, sparing themselves the distractions of crowded workplaces and, of course, the hassle of the daily commute.

Is stepping onto a crowded bus, train, or tram a wise move?

Is hot-desking a casualty of the pandemic and will anyone mourn its loss? Working from home may be here to stay. (iStock)

his could go one of two ways. Employers may feel sanitising desks and oices every time a diferent employee needs to use them is too much of a hassle. hat would mean parking hot-desking for now so long as they can guarantee all staf members their own space. If that’s not possible, hot-desking will continue but under strict cleaning protocols.

Safe Work Australia has released new guidelines on how to limit the spread of coronavirus in the oice. he regulator says every workplace will need to be cleaned with detergent and disinfectant at least once a day. In a hot-desking environment, businesses will need to do that multiple times.

Can we still use communal kitchens and break rooms? he advice from Safe Work Australia is clear. All non-essential gatherings, meetings, and training sessions should be postponed, cancelled, or conducted via videoconferencing.

Until this virus is eradicated, the risk of infection will obviously be higher when you ind yourself in large gatherings of people. Employers may decide to stagger start and inish times to avoid overcrowding on public transport and in lits. When this idea was loated before the pandemic as a solution to traic congestion, it seemed radical. But, to borrow a phrase favoured by our politicians, these are unprecedented times. Catie Norman is the Legal Practice Manager of Shine Lawyers in Sunshine.

Support the ight against Coronavirus. Join our online community at itsuptous.com.au and show your support for our front-line healthcare workers.

HOW CAN I HELP? Donate to the Emergency Response Fund Find out more itsuptous.com.au/donate or call Western Health Foundation on 8345 7660. Send a Message of Support Send a message of encouragement to our frontline staff at itsuptous.com.au/messages-of-support Provide In-Kind Support There are so many ways to help. Find out more at itsuptous.com.au/how-can-i-help Donate Your Old or Unused iPad With visitor restrictions in place at our hospitals, many of our patients, particularly those in ICU, are unable to have friends and family at their bedside. To help facilitate virtual communications between patients and family members, we are seeking donations of old or unused iPads (Apple only). Find out more: itsuptous.com.au/how-to-help

SUPPORTING VULNERABLE PATIENTS While the immediate COVID-19 crisis appears to be easing, the inancial and emotional impacts will be felt in our community for many months to come. Already our frontline staff are starting to see the impacts of the prolonged isolation period, with an increase of domestic violence and mental health presentations at our hospitals. Our support staff are also providing assistance to an increasing number of patients facing economic hardship. With winter fast approaching we are mindful of the potential for increased numbers of covid-positive patients, especially amongst the more vulnerable members of our community – those with chronic illness, the elderly and the socially isolated. Your donation to the Western Health Emergency Response Fund will help us to respond to the next wave of need in our community. Please donate today at whfoundation.org.au or call Western Health Foundation on 8345 7660.

For information on the Western Health Respiratory Clinic or patient visiting guidelines visit www.westernhealth.org.au.

SAFE EXERCISE AT HOME Western Health physiotherapists have joined forces with clinicians and researchers across Australia to develop a website to help older Australians stay active during the COVID-19 pandemic. The new website shares simple functional exercises and ideas for older people to increase activity levels at home. Find out more: safeexerciseathome.org.au

HOSPITAL VISITOR GUIDELINES Although the Premier has announced the first stage in the easing of restrictions across Victoria, visitor restrictions are still in place at all Western Health hospitals. All visitors will have their temperature checked on arrival. Find out more: westernhealth.org.au

For the latest health advice on how to reduce your risk and what to do if you start to experience symptoms visit www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus or call the COVID-19 hotline on 1800 675 398.

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Guiding the way through COVID-19 By Esther Lauaki Wherever Emma Jago goes – Valmai takes the lead. he 21-year-old law student and her guide dog have been inseparable since the young labrador came to live with Emma in her western suburbs home a year ago. Emma is one of the more than 1200 people with low vision or blindness that Guide Dogs Victoria helps each year. “When I irst got Valmai, everything became easier because I now have a literal set of eyes,” she said. “Valmai is my irst guide dog, and before her, I was unsure about inding my way around unfamiliar locations, especially while following a map. “Valmai and I can both make mistakes and be unsure, but between us, we manage just ine and can basically go anywhere and survive. “She always makes me smile by pushing her head against me, wagging her tail enthusiastically, rolling on the loor on her back, or half sitting on me.” In a normal week, the outgoing duo attends RMIT University city campus most days, harmonica lessons at Footscray and woodwork in Kensington but life is much quieter these days. COVID-19 restrictions on outdoor activities have posed a unique set of challenges for those with guide dogs. “Valmai is a dog with much attitude, and is oten too smart for her own good,” Emma said. “She is into everything and loves to chew. “Our biggest problem is occupying such an energetic dog as she becomes bored without entertainment very easily. “We still go out for walks, and do activities such as catching the train or bus, walking

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We’ve simply had to ind ways to overcome these challenges

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Emma Jago and Valmai. Inset: Karen Hayes and Willow. (Pictures: Supplied)

- Karen Hayes

dog provides has never been more essential for, or cherished by, guide dog handlers,” Ms Hayes said. “he coronavirus pandemic has presented challenges to us as an organisation, but the welfare of guide dog clients and our dogs is at the heart of everything we do … so we’ve simply had to ind ways to overcome these

through shops, and congested areas to ensure her skills are maintained, as well as lots of playtime.” Guide Dogs Victoria chief executive Karen Hayes last week acknowledged the role that guide dogs now play during this time of uncertainty. “he comfort and companionship a guide

challenges. “his has meant supporting clients through phone calls, video conferences, email and social media, while our trainers have been busy setting up obstacle courses at our campuses, or training dogs from home, so they can continue getting our guide dogs-in-training ready to change lives.”

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Kick-start a KFC career You may already know KFC stores are still open for takeaway during the coronavirus pandemic, but did you know they’re still looking for people to join their global team? RG Restaurants chief people and culture oicer Scott Quinn says they’re recruiting as normal for all stores and are keen to ofer young people an opportunity to get into the workforce, with casual and part-time positions currently available across the western suburbs. “We’re still feeding locals, and we want locals looking for a great opportunity to come on board and start a great career with us,” Scott says. “Plus you’ll make new friends, have fun and earn some cash!” No experience? No worries! A full in-house training program is provided for newbies, incorporating safety and security, food service, customer service and speciic training for each position. he recruitment process involves a phone interview and then a ‘meet and greet’, where you’ll have the chance to have a chat, ask questions and see how it all works. From there, it’s just the paperwork side of it and you’ll be of and running. KFC has implemented new processes and safety procedures in line with the COVID-19 government advice and has quickly updated the training program to relect these. “Our priority is to keep our staf and customers safe and do what we can to help communities get through these tough times,” Scott says. “KFC is a massive part of the community and we’re continuing to grow. here’s plenty of community spirit out there that we’re a part of, and we’ve really seen this highlighted over the past few months.

KFC stores are recruiting now across the western suburbs. (Supplied)

“We have a strong focus on fostering people and driving culture within the business and stores. “We ofer graduate programs and promote internally as much as possible. “Many of our team leaders, supervisors, managers and those in above store roles started

as team members and worked their way up. “We love seeing this career progression for our people and we’re here to help them develop skills and support them as they take on the workforce and grow in each role they undertake. “We also have in-house social media

communication platforms to keep the team engaged.” If this is the kind of business you would like to be a part of visit www.careers.kfc.com.au for more information, handy job interview tips and to apply for positions near you.

We are looking for awesome people to join our team. Apply below for an awesome gig with us. You’ll meet great people, earn some cash and have a great time.

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17 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 19 May, 2020


Medical imaging and COVID-19 In this climate of COVID-19 and pending lu season, we are all doing our best to protect ourselves from infection and stay as healthy as possible. Medical information and advise can sometimes feel like it’s changing daily. Lake Imaging offers some helpful information for people in regards to imaging during the COVID-19 crisis.

Lake Imaging’s Sunbury clinic is still open. (Supplied)

Radiology saves lives Radiology is an essential tool when it comes to diagnosing illness. Irrespective of the current COVID-19 pandemic, there are many people in the community who still require imaging for tumours, sporting injuries, pregnancy ultrasounds and dental imaging, to name a few. Oncology patients suffering from cancers require important scans and are particularly vulnerable. They are deeply impacted by the challenges this virus is presenting when it comes to safely entering medical waiting areas. Radiologist Dr Anthony French says: “The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unique challenges to the way we practise medicine. It has required that we continually develop, implement and adapt new ways of providing care in an environment that continues to evolve and change day-to-day. Foremost in our minds has been the wellbeing and safety of our staff, patients and the broader community. “Radiology is a crucial part of modern medicine and despite COVID-19, many people continue to require our involvement in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of their medical conditions. We are committed to providing imaging to our patients and I am delighted with the manner in which our staff have committed to caring for patient needs whilst at the forefront of this pandemic.”

Open to all

scanning – before the lu season really sets in.

It is imperative that patients still receive imaging if they need it. If you are not medically affected by COVID-19 and not classiied ‘high-risk’, you are encouraged to keep your appointment and not to cancel or reschedule if feasible. In fact, now is the best time to attend a Lake Imaging clinic for

in supporting patients. Patients may have noticed that some smaller clinics have temporarily closed, this is to safeguard both patients and staff by centralising services to main clinics and minimising the spread of coronavirus in the community. Melton, Sunbury, Kyneton and Bacchus Marsh clinics remain open for patients requiring imaging. All patients are COVID screened over the phone when booking an appointment. Lake Imaging general manager Daniel Hilbert, says Lake Imaging remains committed to supporting communities across the west by providing quality care, compassion and service to everyone. “Our primary focus is to provide a safe environment for all our patients and employees,“ Daniel says. “We take this responsibility seriously. We are following Department of Health guidelines and taking all necessary precautions to protect against COVID-19. “We will continue to provide high quality diagnostic imaging and patient care to our valued communities. We are offering bulk-billing to patients that have a government-issued concession card for all services that are Medicare eligible for a rebate.” Lake Imaging has 19 radiology clinics throughout Victoria. Patients concerned about attending during the coronavirus pandemic are encouraged to phone their nearest clinic for advice or to visit the website for up-to-date information.

Ensuring clinic environments are safe As a local healthcare provider, Lake Imaging’s radiology team is working closely with the Melbourne community of medical practitioners and is very much committed to playing its part

Lake Imaging, 17 Horne Street, Sunbury. Opens 8.30am-6pm Monday-Friday. Inquiries: 9744 5344 or www.lakeimaging.com.au

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18 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 19 May, 2020


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“Your Search Stops Here” 1579m² 2 Newnham Drive, ROMSEY Searching for a beautiful home with room to move? Your search stops right here!

Outside is to be found an excellent well fenced paddock which is ideal for dogs, lambs or even a pony!

Young, sophisticated and beautifully maintained with room for the family and even a lamb or pony.

A three-bay shed complete with concrete floor and power plus another storage shed complete the package.

In these extremely challenging times rental properties have caused a significant amount of stress for tenants, landlords and agents. I believe that the Governments, both State and Federal, have done an exceptional job under very difficult circumstances but it seems, even for the Governments, rental properties posed too

Spacious, elegant living consists of:• Sophisticated main bedroom with large ensuite and walk-in-robe • Bedrooms two and three are very spacious with built-in-robes and plantation shutters • Study with excellent storage and built-in-desk • Superb modern kitchen overlooking the meals and family area • Stylish lounge perfect for relaxation • Modern family bathroom • Light and airy laundry • Large double integrated garage

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To a large extent landlords and tenants have been left to their own devises to negotiate an outcome if the

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tenants have found themselves in financial difficulties and this is not always an ideal situation. Tenants can ring their managing agent, whose job it is to communicate with the landlord. Please however remember that most landlords have a mortgage to pay, in fact they may have more than one mortgage. Many landlords have families with children to educate, bills to pay and some have lost their jobs. This is a time when a “fair go” is so important. Landlords will negotiate a rent reduction if they can,

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• Column supplied by Liz Dormontt. Liz is a director of Chess Property Consultants, based in Romsey. To contact Liz, phone 5429 5544 or check out their website at www.chessproperty.com.au

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“Escape From The Crowds” - 2000m² y Lock yourself away from the crowds and enjoy a peaceful, trouble free life. Grow your own vegies and fruit trees and let the children run! y main bedroom with very spacious walk-in-robe and ensuite y Three more double bedrooms all with built-in-robes y Amazing open plan living area which includes a wonderful modern kitchen, exceptionally spacious family area and carpeted sitting room y Walk-in-pantry/utility room y Children’s retreat area and large study y Undercover entertainment area and large integrated double garage

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y Located in the Park Range estate in Lancefield is this 3 bedroom home y main bedroom has walk-in-robe and full ensuite y Bedrooms 2 & 3 have built-in-robes y Well equipped kitchen with gas cooking and breakfast bar y Formal lounge and separate TV/rumpus room y Timber look floors and carpet throughout the home y Well built covered alfresco area y Double garage with a roller door and drive-through access to the yard which has excellent fencing

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PH: 5429 5544 www.chessproperty.com.au

19 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 19 May, 2020


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Established 1949

Selling in the Macedon Ranges in 2020 Never before has decades of experience, trust, genuine advice, superior local knowledge and network connections been more important when selecting an agency to sell your property.

Mount Macedon 100 Douglas Road

Price $785,000

A Modern Tree House with Scandinavian Inluences on Approx. 4500m² Set over two levels, this 3 bedroom residence has a wonderful sense of elevation and an amazing tree top outlook. Immerse yourself in cosy open plan living featuring an updated kitchen, dining/lounge, main bathroom and Europoean laundry. Large windows and sliders access an excellent outdoor deck. Upstairs there are 3 bedrooms and a powder room. Split system heating/cooling, solid fuel heater, carport, and a special position on the mountain in a beautiful private setting of just over an acre. An ideal weekender or permanent mountain retreat.

View By appointment Sandi Barry-Mueller 0408 392 347 www.100douglasroad.com

.

Price $925,000

Woodend 43 Boundary Road 9.6 Ha (23.7 Acres) - A Fabulous Small Farm Tree Change Improvers Opportunity Only 3.3 kms from the heart of the vibrant Woodend town centre and cofee shops is this modest circa 1950’s 3 bedroom solid brick and concrete home (in need of refurbishment), set very privately within a lovely mature native treed setting, lanked by two small Pine plantations and overlooking a really beautiful ‘lake’ with a surface area of approximately 1.8 acres. Features include a relatively new tiled roof, town water supply, an excellent horse paddock that includes a good double shelter shed and yards, plus a small stock yard.

View Sat 23 May 11-11.30am or by appointment Peter Wood 0408 886 774 Sandi Barry-Mueller 0408 392 347 John Keating 0419 880 444

COVID-19 Green Shoots Whilst it is too early to accurately call the impact of COVID-19 on property values in the Macedon Ranges, there is encouraging evidence that our cleaner air, open spaces, community spirit and more afordable properties are generating increased enquiry from buyers wanting to escape to the country and realise their tree change dreams.

SOLD 11 May Keily Road, Gisborne

20 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 19 May, 2020

SOLD 14 May Chambers Road, Ashbourne

SOLD 14 May Green Avenue, Mount Macedon


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Yes, properties are selling. For an appraisal, please call Sandi Barry-Mueller 0408 392 347

Peter Wood 0408 866 774

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Woodend 5 Five Mile Way

Price $849,000

Nothings Standard About this One Built with the detail of a true craftsman. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, plus study and theatre room/sitting room boasting high ceilings, superb cornicing, stunning Sydney Blue Gum timber looring, top of the range cabinetry and tiling, gas ducted heating, evaporative cooling and the ultimate in northerly outdoor entertaining. Immerse yourself in quality of the highest standard.

Cobaw - Newham 45 Blue Wren Lane (of Crozier's Road)

View Sat 23 May 12-12.30pm or by appointment Sandi Barry-Mueller 0408 392 347

Price $785,000

A great opportunity to purchase this 66 acre property with beautiful views and a seasonal creek. Located only mins to the village of Newham and central to Woodend, Kyneton and Lanceield townships. The beneit of a planning permit from the Macedon Ranges Shire Council PLN /2016/243 to allow for a residence.

Agent on Site Sat 23 May 1-1.30pm or by appointment Peter Wood 0408 866 774 Sandi Barry-Mueller 0408 392 347

Trentham East 439 Pearsons Road

Price $2,450,000

A glorious 27 Ha (66.9 Acres) with Planning Permit

St Claire - Set on 9.8 Ha (24.2 Acres) Inspired by the French Colonial style, grandeur and luxury are in abundance at St Claire, ofering a magniicent main residence and separate private self contained guest house. Set over three pavilions/wings ofering accommodation of 8 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms or you could reconigure to suit your own needs. With modern French Colonial interiors throughout St Claire ofers exquisite country living spilling out to sensational gardens and glorious grounds. For more information visit www.439pearsonsroad.com

View By appointment Sandi Barry-Mueller 0408 392 347 John Keating 0408 880 444

21 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 19 May, 2020


SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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22 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 19 May, 2020


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STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

networkclassifieds.com.au General Classifieds

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