Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 4th October 2022

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4 OCTOBER, 2022

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Play along at toy library

Melissa Lopez and her four-month-old baby Annabelle at the Gisborne Toy Library. (Damjan Janevski) 300602_01

The committee at the Gisborne Toy Library is looking for more volunteers to keep the 35-year-old service running.

Secretary Melissa Lopez said the not-for-profit, volunteer-run organisation provided an important service to the community, and was a great one to become involved in.

“It brings people together and I’ve met people through the Toy Library who I wouldn’t have otherwise met,” she said.

“I first joined it when I was on parental leave with my first child and I liked it as a way to get involved in something in the community while I wasn’t working.

“It gave me something to do while I was on parental leave without the full time commitment of work.”

Ms Lopez said while the annual regular membership for the library was $50, for volunteer committee members who help with the borrowing sessions it’s just $1 for the year.

Not only does the service provide a cheap and accessible avenue for families to find new toys, it also helps the community cut down on the number of toys thrown into landfill.

The library runs three sessions a week, with members rotated through facilitating roles. Get in touch: gisbornetoylibrary@yahoo.com.au

Deep concern for creek

By Elsie Lange Greater Western Water (GWW) discharged recycled water into Deep Creek around Romsey without approval from the environmental regulator, it has been revealed. The Class B recycled water release has local farmers worried about the safety of their cattle, whose troughs draw from the creek.

Gerard Belleville owns Woodlands cattle farm in Springfield, and is an accredited Angus beef breeder – if his 600 heads of cattle are compromised by the discharge so too is his

livelihood. “They (GWW) are treating us just as of no consequence,” he said.

“They’ve clearly mismanaged the capacity of the sewerage facility.”

Greater Western Water notified residents on September 20 it would be releasing the water into the creek on Thursday, September 22, due to sustained rainfall leading to “a significant rise in water held in storage at the Romsey Recycled Water Plant”.

Responding to questions from Star Weekly, a GWW spokesperson said the water quality results confirmed the treated recycled water

leaving the plant met “strict Class B regulatory guidelines and is suitable for livestock drinking water”.

However a letter from the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) to Mr Belleville, seen by Star Weekly, said the water utility did not secure permission as required before the release took place.

“The EPA has refused to grant an emergency discharge approval,” the letter said. “The EPA has been informed that GWW has no option other than to discharge to avoid putting wastewater infrastructure at risk of failure.”

EPA north west regional manager Scott Pigdon said the authority was in contact with GWW and was taking samples.

“It was noted at the time of sampling that, with the recent rainfalls, there was some flooding and therefore a very high dilution rate,” Mr Pigdon said. “EPA has been informed the discharge water was only from the final holding lagoon that contains only fully treated Class B standard water that can be used for specified agricultural uses.”

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Continued: Page 4

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New options on future of Romsey

By Elsie Lange Results of the Romsey Emerging Options Paper (EOP) community consultation about how the town will grow into the future were presented at a Macedon Ranges council meeting last week.

The EOP provided further information and background about the development of Romsey’s forthcoming structure plan, with residents invited to have a say on different scenarios over six weeks earlier this year.

Submissions to the EOP questioned why Romsey’s population was earmarked in the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme to

potentially grow to 10,000 – 30 per cent of 417 survey responses preferred a “no growth” scenario.

In response to a public question raised at the meeting, council planning director Rebecca Stockfeld said the options presented in the paper were aimed at stimulating debate with the community and stakeholders.

“They were for testing and discussion purposes only,” she said.

“With the current population … of 4935, all options and growth scenarios provided are looking at the parameters of a large district down.”

There were three growth paths until 2050 highlighted: an option for development

within the existing Romsey town boundary, growth to the north and west, or to the south and east, labelled options one, two and three respectively.

Of the three suggested growth options, option one, or infill development, was preferred by 35 per cent of survey respondents, and option three, to the south and east, was the second most preferred by 15 per cent of participants.

Concerns were raised during consultation about the capacity of the Romsey Waste Water Treatment Plant, with respondents arguing the plant needed upgrading before any growth occurred in the area.

Other issues raised included anxiety about

the landscape and natural environment, the need for increased community services in town and a lack of transport infrastructure.

The report to council on the EOP said it was likely the draft Romsey Structure Plan will be developed throughout the rest of this year and released for community consultation in “early to mid-2023”.

Council voted unanimously to endorse the EOP as work continues on the Romsey Structure Plan, to notify submitters and subscribers of council’s decision and to continue quarterly project updates.

“Council has identified a significant amount of further work in response to community and agency feedback,” the report said.

Deep concerns for Deep Creek ■

Kylie Swain and her kids Coby, 5, and Dean, 7, with LG and Tom Sparrey with their kids Rhys, 7, and Ren, 10, are excited for the festival.

(Damjan Janevski) 300626_01

Festival aims at regenerating together The Regenerating the Ranges Festival happening next weekend is all about the coming together of the community after the devastation of last year’s June storms.

Organised by the Macedon Ranges Seed Savers with grant funding from the Victorian government, the Woodend event on Sunday, October 16 will acknowledge community resilience and work on healing.

Seed Savers’ Kylie Swain put together the festival, which will focus on helping the community prepare for future disasters and teach the art of regeneration.

“It’s good to get the community together after this kind of event, to put on something positive and talk about what’s happening,” Ms Swain said. “When I hear another storm I freak out and I think other people are the same.I think it’s healthy to be able to do something as a community.”

Taking place at the Woodend RSL, attendees will be treated to talks from guest speakers, including Craig Castree, as well as market stalls, face painting, music, a show bag and a free sausage sizzle.

“The Woodend Mens Shed is going to be there

to teach people how to build nesting boxes… you might have lost a tree but you can put a nesting box back into its place,” Ms Swain said.

“To put some good back into the ecosystem, to turn a negative into a positive thing.

“The CFA are going to be there, showing you how to do your own disaster plan, too.”

The festival starts at 1pm and is free, and volunteers for the event and packaging seeds would be welcomed too.

Details: https://bit.ly/3SHJ1Bs.

From page 1

Mr Belleville said his concerns were twofold – commercial and environmental – and he was worried by how fast the discharge took place considering the water flows directly onto his property.

“Everytime we sell a beast, we’re subject to [making] biosecurity declarations, and further than that, historically I’ve sold animals into live export breeding programs … they’ve got an even higher biosecurity requirement,” he said.

Both Mr Belleville and Monegeetta farmer Randall Gerkens said they were told in a 2019 written agreement from Western Water (now GWW) they would receive 14 days notice before the water utility service would go to the EPA to seek approval to discharge.

“I found out about it in a call on Tuesday afternoon, September 20… [they said] they were engaging with the EPA and were going to start discharging in the following day or so,” Mr Gerkens said.

Mr Gerkens described the “breach” of the agreement as “unconscionable and unethical”.

A GWW spokesperson said because it was an emergency situation it had not breached the EPA agreement.

“The undertaking previously provided

by Western Water to three landowners only applied to EPA licence amendments and not emergencies,” the spokesperson said. “Greater Western Water is upgrading the Romsey Recycled Water Plant, including increased storage to support the region’s growing population,” the spokesperson added.

Mr Belleville said he was still frustrated by the actions of GWW. He was supposed to be taking his first holiday with his family in years when the discharge took place.

“This all flares up on us, and it’s all consuming,” he said.

Elsie Lange

Councillor granted leave to stand as Liberal candidate Macedon Ranges councillor Dominic Bonnano has launched his campaign as the Liberal candidate for Macedon to contest the November state election.

Mr Bonnano has represented the South Ward of the municipality since November 2020 and said it was his passion for the community, environment and people which made him want to stand.

At a council meeting on Wednesday, September 28, Mr Bonnano was granted leave from council while he campaigned for the seat

which is held by sitting Labor MP Mary-Anne Thomas.

Mr Bonnano told Star Weekly his priorities were health, emergency services, regional roads and sporting infrastructure.

“I hope to bring the commitment to transparency and honesty that I’ve brought to my role as councillor to the job of being an MP, while encouraging a sense of togetherness and community,” he said. “[I believe in] honesty and transparency, small government not big government,

4 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 4 October, 2022

individual freedom, preserving our natural beauty and environment and strong community connections.”

With Ms Thomas’ appointment to the health portfolio in June, and lingering concern about pandemic lockdowns during 2020 and 2021, Mr Bonnano’s stance on health will be in the spotlight. The candidate has lived in the Macedon Ranges for 16 years, in Gisborne South with his wife and three children. For the last decade he has been volunteering with the Gisborne State Emergency Service.

“I love the Macedon Ranges and surrounds; that’s why my wife and I made the decision to move here,” he said. “That decision was based on family connections in Gisborne, the beautiful surrounds, unique environment, and the strong sense of community that you get from the villages and towns in the Macedon electorate.”

Mr Bonnano joined Liberal Opposition Leader Matthew Guy on the campaign trail last month to announce a $75 million pledge to redevelop Daylesford Hospital.

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Council wants Jacksons Hill gift

By Elsie Lange Hume council will write to the state government and request a gift: the remaining 3.269 hectares of land located at Jacksons Hill in Sunbury.

The land is Lot C at the precinct, which includes the heritage listed Female Refractory Ward known as Building 22, for the use of Sunbury’s artistic community.

At a meeting on Monday, September 26, council voted to write to the Planning Minister Lizzie Blandthorn to transfer the site to council for free or in a long-term peppercorn lease.

Jacksons Creek Ward councillor Jarrod Bell said he did not think it was reasonable for Hume ratepayers to foot the bill for the site, as many in Sunbury already considered it a community asset.

“This building is really only suited to be a community space,” Cr Bell said.

“It is uniquely placed to fill a desperate need, and to divert funding that could be used to get it up and to scratch for a government to government purchase does not make sense to me, especially if the alternative is to simply let it continue to rot.”

Council’s current capital works program has a total of $6 million to support upgrade

Emergency services vehicles taking their first trip on the underpass.

works at Jacksons Hill, which includes $3 million from the state government.

In 2020, former Planning Minister Richard Wynne wrote to council to seek its interest in purchasing the land, which was the only lot not transferred in principle to council by the government in 2018.

Since then, “cultural heritage issues” are said to have impacted the transfer of the agreed lots, and therefore, the arts community.

Fellow Jacksons Creek Ward councillor Trevor Dance said the “saga” had been going on for more than a decade and that there had been little progress since the government first agreed to the land transfer four years ago.

Sunbury MP Josh Bull with Sunbury SES.

“I think the community needs to send a loud message out there that we want the land transferred so we can use the $3 million that’s been given to us from the government … and the additional $3 in the council budget,” Cr Dance said.

He also added it was disappointing to see the historical building “go to rot”.

“It’s an injustice to see what’s happening there... Let’s hope we get this, we add to it, we hope that the land is transferred to us quickly,” he said.

Sunbury residents at the completed works.

(Supplied)

(Supplied)

(Supplied)

Motoring relief as Gap Road officially opens It’s been a congested few months for the Sunbury community, who might have breathed a collective sigh of relief when Gap Road bridge underpass opened on Friday morning.

Streaming live on Facebook, Sunbury MP Josh Bull was the first to drive under the bridge in the passenger seat of a vintage car, the audio crowded by the loud horns and sirens of following vehicles, beeping in celebration.

The opened road is set to reduce congestion for the 19,000 vehicles which use it every day.

“Getting rid of the dangerous and congested Gap Road level crossing is just the start of upgrades across Sunbury, with more than $2 billion being invested in better transport – bringing huge benefits for residents and businesses,“ Mr Bull said.

“The new Gap Road underpass and rail bridge is a fantastic result for Sunbury, and I’d like to thank everyone in the community for their patience while we completed this critical project – reconnecting our wonderful town.”

Residents left comments on the live video, ranging from “great work“, to “how fabulously exciting”, to “I am so happy”.

The early opening was announced at a community day on September 18, where residents were given a chance to walk on the new road and see the stunning bridge art by Sunbury First Nations Yorta Yorta, Gunaikurnai and Gunditjmara artist Teena Moffatt.

Since the Gap Road level crossing boom gates were removed in June, crews have removed 25,000 cubic metres of soil to build the bridge and underpass.

Yorta Yorta, Gunaikurnai and Gunditjmara bridge artist Teena Moffatt with Sunbury MP Josh Bull and project workers. (Supplied)

Kate Locke, Madeline Locke, Angel Charles and Diane Hewitt using the new foot path on Gap Road.

Drone image of the now-open Gap Road from above. (Supplied)

Drone image of the completed Gap Road bridge and underpass. (Supplied)

(Supplied)

Sunbury MP Josh Bull in the vintage Jaguar on the right, taking the first trip on the underpass.

(Supplied)

Tuesday, 4 October, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 5

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Busy long weekend for police

By Elsie Lange Victoria Police detected more than 7000 offences over the AFL Grand Final long weekend as part of a statewide operation targeting high-risk driving behaviour.

Over five days, road policing Operation Scoreboard had officers focused on speeding, impaired driving and distraction.

Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said it had been a “busy weekend” across the state, with many of the penalties and infringements preventable had drivers slowed down, paid attention and obeyed

speed limits.

“Almost 500 drivers were detected for driving whilst unlicensed, disqualified or suspended, meaning they shouldn’t even be behind the wheel,” he said.

“This blatant disregard for the rules will not be tolerated, and police will continue to utilise ANPR technology to detect and remove unauthorised drivers from the roads.”

Across Hume and the Macedon Ranges, police recorded 39 and 50 driving offences respectively during the operation.

Thirty-four drivers were caught speeding in the Macedon Ranges, as well as one

disqualified driver, one unlicensed driver, two drivers disobeying signals or signs and five unregistered vehicles.

In Hume there were nine drivers caught speeding, alongside five disqualified drivers, two unlicensed drivers, 23 drivers disobeying signals or signs, three mobile phone offences, five unregistered vehicles and three vehicle impoundments.

Across the state, the operation recorded 2881 speeding offences, 494 unlicenced, disqualified or suspended drivers, 224 drink driving offences from 119, 953 breath tests and 212 drug driving offences from 3615 roadside

drug tests.

Hume and Macedon Ranges both recorded zero drunk or drug drivers.

Assistant Commissioner Weir said it was “not the time to be complacent”.

“We’re experiencing high levels of road trauma not seen since well before the pandemic,” he said.

“Police will continue to be on high alert for motorists engaging in risk-taking behaviour that puts other road users in danger.”

Operation Scoreboard ran from Wednesday, September 21 to Sunday, September 25.

Funds for more after school care

Sunbury Comedy @ Piano on Evans host Jackie Hatton is inviting you to come have a laugh. (Damjan Janevski) 300010_03

Laughs assured at new comedy gig There’s a new place to have a belly laugh in town – say hello to Sunbury’s newest comedy night at Piano on Evans.

Happening on the first Thursday of every month, the night is set to bring some of Melbourne’s most beloved stand-up comedians to the Sunbury stage.

Host, producer and comedian Jackie Hatton can’t wait to get the show on the road.

“Comedy brings people together to laugh and connect over the silly little things all us humans do,” Ms Hatton said.

“It’s a chance for family and friends to get together and enjoy a night out, without having to travel all the way into Melbourne CBD which

can often be a hindrance to plans.

“Because we are located in the centre of Sunbury, right by the train station, Sunbury Comedy is extremely accessible to everyone in the surrounding region.”

There will even be the chance for budding, local comedians to get up and have a go.

“Famous comedians have to start out performing somewhere, and creating and supporting local venues for performers is integral to letting the next generation of comics flourish,” Ms Hatton said.

“We will be hosting a sign-up open mic after the main show each month at 10pm.

“We welcome anyone who has ever thought

about trying stand up comedy to jump up and give it a shot in a supportive environment.”

The first open mic night is locked in for November 3 and Ms Hatton said they’ve already signed up two local comedians.

“I hope that by bringing stand-up comedy to Sunbury, it can bring the same joy into people’s lives that it did for mine, and hopefully even inspire some new performers,” she said.

“We want to make comedy accessible for everyone at any age, whether you are 18 or 65 years old.”

Details: https://bit.ly/3SJAC0q.

Newham Primary School, Coimadai Primary School and Trentham Primary School are set to expand their outside of school hours care with funding from the state government.

Last week, Education Minister Natalie Hutchins announced 121 schools would share in $17 million worth of grants to establish new or broadened out side school hours care services.

“By creating more outside school hours care services, we’re helping parents and carers to get back to work, study, or training – while ensuring their kids are cared for before and after school hours, as well as during school holidays,“ Ms Hutchins said.

“These grants will provide a huge benefit to our schools and busy working families across the state.”

The schools will receive up to $75,000 each year over the next two years for the service, with special schools and those in remote locations to receive more funding if they need it.

Not only will the funding help expand services to meet demand, it will provide support for costs including resources or equipment, set up and administration, staffing, training and transport.

The investment is part of the government’s $81.7 million Outside School Hours Care Establishment Grants Initiative, with a further funding round to take place next year to bring the total number of schools to benefit to more than 400.

Elsie Lange

Vinnies challenge to buy nothing new for a whole month Could you last a month without buying anything new?

That’s the challenge The St Vincent de Paul Society Vinnies Shops are asking Victorians to try this October, as part of Vinnies’ Buy Nothing New Month (VBNN).

Vinnies Victoria commercial services executive general manager Jeff Antcliff said VBNN was designed as an annual circuit breaker in peoples’ buying habits.

“It’s a reminder that with a little extra time and care, buying pre-loved items can bring immeasurable joy to our lives and provide a meaningful connection to the circular economy too,” Mr Antcliff said.

The role of Vinnies stores has been amplified as the cost of living crisis deepens and people

turn to charities for the help they need day-to-day.

“We are expecting significant traction with Vinnies’ Buy Nothing New Pledge this year,” Mr Antcliff said. “With inflationary pressures pushing up the cost of living, on every front, people are desperately seeking ways to stretch their budgets – and concurrently, to be proud of how they are contributing to addressing urgent macro environmental issues like escalating landfill.”

It’s easy to get involved too – simply head to your local Vinnies Shop and commit to the pledge by purchasing reused goods. If you’re on social media, spread the word, and share an image of what you’ve scored with the hashtag #VBNN and #foundatvinnies.

6 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 4 October, 2022

Scott Marsen from the Sunbury Vinnies and west senior area manager said supporting Vinnies also supports the most vulnerable people in the community.

“The money goes to electricity bills, housing, schooling, and vouchers in the shops as well, to come in and purchase items,” Mr Marsden said. “I love Vinnies. To this day it continues to surprise me what I see come through the doors.

“It’s not only about what we receive, we’ve also got that place where people come, become volunteers, make lifelong friends, we help people out mentally as well and keep their minds active.

“It’s a place to have a laugh as well.”

Elsie Lange

Vinnies west senior area manager Scott Marsden at Sunbury Vinnies. (Damjan Janevski) 300522_01

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Draft plans for three sport hubs

By Elsie Lange Three draft master plans for recreational hubs in Woodend, Romsey and Kyneton were released at a Macedon Ranges council meeting last week and are now open for four weeks of community consultation.

The draft plans for Gilbert Gordon Oval in Woodend, Romsey Park Sports Precinct and Kyneton Showgrounds were developed in partnership with the precincts’ relevant clubs, who identified key issues and opportunities for improvements.

Woodend Hesket Football Netball Club (WHFNC) played a key role in the preparation of the draft master plan of their home ground.

WHFNC president James Chettle said the proposal would be a great benefit to the community, especially for netball and gender equity.

“There was an original master plan, but we’ve been pushing for new netball facilities to make Gilbert Gordon both netball and football friendly,” Mr Chettle said.

“They still play at Gilbert Gordon [now], but they’re tucked up the back in the shade, in the cold.

“The [draft] master plan brings them down to the football action and supports, and closer to amenities.”

He said the most attractive aspects of the proposal were the inclusion of a new netball court and potential new social rooms, which could be used not only by the sporting community, but by everyone.

Mr Chettle looked forward to hearing residents’ take on the plan during the consultation period.

“Because Gilbert Gordon is tucked away it’s not in the public eye, it’s always good to get community input on the project. We’re pushing as a football netball club to offer the

community space,” he said.

“We’re looking at upgrading for not only current players, but for future players coming through – equalising the ground for gender equity and to netball the same prevalence as football.”

The netball courts would be the first priority in the Woodend plan, with $360,000 allocated to this initial stage, Mr Chettle said Other aspects of the Gilbert Gordon draft include a new pavilion on the western side of the oval, new netball change rooms, a new digital scoreboard, car parking improvements, cricket net changes, walking pathways and more.

The draft master plan for Romsey Park included the proposal to expand both oval and pavilion number two, develop new netball courts on the northeastern part of the reserve and turn the current netball area additional parking, develop a shared golf club/netball change room and resurfacing of tennis courts.

Netball courts, a new community pavilion, angled parking, the proposed replacement of the various existing pavilions and more were discussed during the initial consultation process for the Kyneton Show Grounds draft master plan, which is also now open for viewing.

To view the draft plans, head to council’s ‘Have Your Say’ page at www.mrsc.vic.gov.au.

Woodend’s netballers will benefit from the draft Gilbert Gordon Oval master plan. (Joe Mastroianni).

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Get your cats desexed Western suburbs cat owners are being encouraged to desex their cats to help reduce an ongoing problem in Melbourne’s west.

The not-for-profit Westside Community Desexing Inc in Sunshine opened in November with the aim of providing low cost desexing to help with a growing issued of cats not being desexed.

Many end up in the pound or shelters, with tens of thousands of cats being put down each year.

Veterinary nurse Livana Raczynski said the clinic had desexed 1500 cats since it opened in November last year and expected the number of cats to increase further in the west.

“Because they can breed quickly,” she said.

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not desexed.”

Ms Raczynski said the clinic worked with animal rescue groups and councils. The clinic has formed a partnership with one council and is hoping to set up more with other councils.

Dr Ann Enright said when they were setting up the clinic, that many people can’t afford to desex their cats.

Ms Raczynski said the clinic also provided education on cat care to pet owners.

The $150 offer is ongoing and in partnership with Melton council. Residents need to provide proof of their address to access the offer.

Details: www.westsidedesexing.org.au or 9364 8742.

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The Sunbury Show The 100th Sunbury Agricultural Show is coming up this Saturday, October 8. It runs from 8.30am to 9pm, showcasing the region’s stunning produce, flowers, animals, crafts and photography. There’ll be music on stage from 6pm to 9pm too. It’s all happening at the Sunbury Recreation Reserve. Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for children, $10 for students/ pensioners and $30 for a family pass.

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A canola field in Melton.

(Damjan Janevski) 299052_07

Fields turn canola yellow In 13th century Europe, it was used as lamp oil and in World War II, it was used as a lubricant for ships.

Canolas are often the first flowers available to commercial honey bees in the southern areas of Australia, flowering from September to October.

People wishing to see the vibrant fields may try the road to Sunbury Road past the airport or the Princes Freeway towards Little River.

‘Canola tourists’ are encouraged to enjoy from a distance, as most flowers are grown on private farms and used for agriculture.

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Canola fields are in full bloom across the north-west, signalling the start of spring in the Macedon Ranges.

Vivid yellow flowers are springing up at canola farms, creating the effect of blanketing whole fields in canary yellow.

The crop is grown across Victoria, particularly in the south-west, for its seeds, which are crushed for use in margarine and cooking oil.

Canola was first grown commercially in Australia in 1969, but has ancient roots in Asian and Mediterranean civilisations.

The state government has launched a campaign highlighting the success of women in construction to encourage more women and girls to pursue a career in the building industry. The ‘She Built It’ digital, radio and print campaign was launched by Industrial Relations Minister Tim Pallas last week, set to appear streaming services, YouTube, Spotify and news sites, in regional newspapers and on radio across the state, including multicultural stations. “There are many women with thriving careers in the construction industry and it’s important to highlight those stories because it’s hard to be what you can’t see. Representation and visibility matter,” Mr Pallas said.

“We need action to change the status quo and that’s what this campaign will promote.”

Giving Victorian children the best start in life Free Kinder from 2023 will give Victorian children the best start in life.

Three- and Four-Year-Old Kinder will be FREE across the state at participating services.

In 2022, funded Three-Year-Old Kinder continues to roll out across the state.

And over the decade, we’ll transition Four-Year-Old Kinder to Pre-Prep and establish 50 Victorian Government-owned and affordable childcare centres.

Learn more at vic.gov.au/kinder

8 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 4 October, 2022

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Green light for double-height home

By Elsie Lange Hume council has given the green light to a double storey dwelling in Crosbie Court in Sunbury, despite neighbourhood concerns.

The proposal for renovations to an existing single storey level and an addition of another, two-storey dwelling would make it the first double storey on the street.

At a council meeting on Monday, September 26, court resident Des McMaster spoke against the council officers’ recommendation to give the go-ahead.

Mr McMaster, a resident of the court for

40 years, said despite the proposal meeting planning requirements, it did not speak to the reality of what it would be.

“Despite ticking these [planning] boxes, and many others, the proposal is not sympathetic to street amenity,” Mr McMaster said.

“It pretends to deliver superb benefits to the aged and impaired, and it certainly does not do that.

“Finally, and perhaps most importantly, this proposal will result in significantly increased congestion, frustration and traffic risk.”

Councillor Jarrod Bell said planning in Victoria did “not seek for outcomes that

everyone is happy with”.

“Planning in this state seeks for acceptable outcomes under the scheme and acceptable is a very specific word as to how it applies in Victorian planning law,” Cr Bell said.

“Acceptable is, unfortunately, as our resident mentioned, is the ticking of those boxes.

“He’s explained the way planning in this state works to a tee – it is a box ticking exercise and all too often our decision here is almost an approval of the inevitable.”

Cr Trevor Dance was the only one to vote against the proposal and said it was important to respect the people who already live in the

court.

“We need to, as councillors, be responsible in looking after the interests of existing residents as well,” he said.

Cr Karen Sherry said it would be foolish for the council to reject the application.

“More people are going to be coming into Melbourne and more people are going to want to live in places like Sunbury, it’s a wicked problem,” Cr Sherry said.

“Of course we don’t want to build all these cookie cutter town houses, but on the other hand, if we don’t, we’ll have suburbs all the way to Albury.”

Raising profile of disorder Only 600 people in Australia are sufferers of a rare lung disease called Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD), and PCD Australia founder Catherine Kruljac from Sunbury is one of them.

She said there’s probably more though, as people are often not diagnosed until later in life – that’s why PCD Awareness Month is happening worldwide in October.

“It’s about creating awareness among the general public and local doctors that this condition exists,” Ms Kruljac said.

“People shouldn’t have to be walking around with a chronic illness and diagnosed late in their lives because of the damage it does to their lungs.”

As part of the campaign, Ms Kruljac is asking locals to get involved with a 55 kilometre Ride/ Run/Walk through the month of October, to raise money virtually for research and support for sufferers.

“My lung function is at 33 per cent just due to damage in the airways from repeated chest infections and that’s not reversible,” she said.

“There’s no known cure at the moment, there are some studies that have happened overseas in regards to some drugs that could be a game changer, but we’ll know in the future.”

She wants to see a standard of care for the disease and for more doctors to know what they are looking for.

“Someone can look healthy, but on the inside could be struggling. I look perfectly fit, but if I walk up a flight of stairs, I have to stand for a couple of minutes to get my breath back,” she said.

“Organisations like ours are about finding support structures for everybody and giving people help if they need that financial help.”

Details: https://pcdau.raisely.com.

PCD Australia founder Catherine Kruljac wants people to get on board this PCD Awareness Month.

Elsie Lange

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Print and Online Sales Executive Star Weekly Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

Sales skills/experience: • Ability to maintain existing professional relationships and to create new ones • Ability to meet defined sales and activity targets • Excellent listening skills • Accuracy and attention to detail • Effective time management to meet deadlines • Ability to operate in a team • Demonstrates initiative and flexibility • Effective oral and written communication Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to: Mandy Clark Group Advertising Sales Manager mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

HELP SUPPORT THE MOST VULNERABLE PATIENTS IN YOUR COMMUNITY Your donation to The Greatest Need fund will help support vulnerable patients facing severe financial hardship by providing the basic necessities they need to leave hospital and move forward with their lives.

Find out more and donate today at https://greatestneed.wh.org.au

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Tuesday, 4 October, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 9

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Higher education access call

By Elsie Lange Hume council will write to the state government requesting better bus routes from the municipality to universities.

At a meeting on Monday, September 26, Hume deputy mayor Sam Misho asked that council write to the public transport and higher education ministers requesting new bus routes from Craigieburn, Coolaroo and Upfield to La Trobe and Victoria universities.

“The letter should recognise the difficulties Hume residents have in accessing universities due to the distances and poor public transport access to existing universities,” Cr Misho said.

‘‘

The letter should recognise the difficulties Hume residents have in accessing universities

’’

- Sam Misho “[It should also] seek information on what the state government is doing to improve bus services to existing universities. “[As well as] seek information from the state government of future provision of university courses and campuses in suitable proximity to Hume residents.”

Cr Jarrod Bell said he welcomed Cr Misho’s notice of motion, as he himself had attended La Trobe and getting there on public transport could take three hours.

“Any improvement to institutions of higher education for the communities down here in the south of our city, would be greatly appreciated,” Cr Bell said.

“I’m not proposing to amend [the] notice of motion today, but any advocacy we can do in helping Sunbury residents and Jacksons Creek Ward residents get to their institutions of higher education would also be appreciated.”

Cr Misho said when he attended Deakin University in Burwood two decades ago, he

would have to travel from Meadow Heights, spending two and a half hours on public transport one way.

He said he would like to see a university open in the municipality, but until then, facilitating students to get to university in other suburbs easier would be a good first step.

“After all this time, there are people in my shoes who still do the same thing,” Cr Misho said.

“If anything, that’s extremely embarrassing.

“We talk about certain suburbs in Hume being some of the most disadvantaged suburbs in Victoria – if we are to change any of that we need to focus.”

Danielle Laidley is speaking at the Birds of a Feather lunch on October 7.

(Supplied)

Danielle Laidley lunch in Kyneton

The Bunnings team hard at work at St Anne’s Primary School. Top left, front to back: Nat Chan, Sarah Cantrill and Sarah Thomas. Top right: Kim Bentley. Left: Phillip Tirchett. Centre right: Shamilla Ranjitharupan, Mon Lo and Sonya Rand. Bottom right: Volunteers Nathan Daniels and Jason Saliba with Bunnings’ Geoff Raynar. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 299447

Working bee brightens up St Anne’s Back and bright in red uniforms after two years sidelined due to COVID-19, the Bunnings team took to St Anne’s Primary School in Sunbury to help plant their gardens and paint around the school.

St Anne’s sustainability leader Jo Hannan said it was a fantastic day.

“There were close to 40 people from Bunnings, some from the head office and some from the other side of town, as well as a Dulux team that painted some of the seats and fixtures

around the school,” Ms Hannan said.

“As a surprise for the kids when they return to school, the working bee took place during the holidays.”

The entrance to the school was where most of the work occurred, planted with natives which are set to encourage pollinators down the track.

Ms Hannan said it looked great.

“It means a great deal [to have this support].” she said. “After COVID-19 its invaluable to have community organisations be able to

10 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 4 October, 2022

contribute again.”

The work, which took place on September 21, is part of an ongoing partnership between the school, Bunnings and Dulux.

Ms Hannan said she hopes the bee encourages volunteers, parents and the broader community to get involved with sustainability at the school.

“A special thanks to Lyn, Zena and the community co-ordinators from Bunnings Sunbury,” she said.

Former AFL player and coach Danielle Laidley will be heading to Kyneton on Friday, October 7, for a special Birds of a Feather lunch, an initiative of the Country LGBTIQA+ Inclusion Program and Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health.

In August this year, Laidley released her unflinching autobiography ’Don’t Look Away: A Memoir of Identity & Acceptance’, delving into her decades-long journey to coming out as transgender in November 2020.

From her childhood as a boy growing up in the backblocks of Perth, then a teenager and young man entering footy, to becoming a father of three – she always knew she was a woman no matter what her birth certificate said.

Her story is one of force, resilience and honesty – it speaks to the power of knowing your truth and finding the strength to step into the open.

As part of the quarterly LGBTIQA+ lunch at the Kyneton Bowls Club, Laidley will explore these ideas and more, talking about her firsthand experience knowing she didn’t fit into the body she was born into and the fear of being outed in the face of terrifying prejudice.

The lunch offers LGBTIQA+ people to come together, share stories and belong. Entry is free, meals and drinks are at bar prices. RSVPs are essential.

Contact Belinda Brain on 5421 1666 or email belinda.brain@scchc.org.au.

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MY PLACE Gisborne’s Carmen Hofman makes stunning resin and timber furniture, turning her pandemic hobby into an award-winning business, Oakfield Designs. Her work will feature in the Gisborne-based season of The Block, and she recently won gold at the 2022 AusMumpreneaur Awards. She tells Star Weekly all about her love for the town, her timber work and her family.

What’s your connection to Gisborne?

Growing up in Essendon, suburbia was what I knew. My cousins and grandma moved to Bullengarook and Gisborne when I was young, and some of my fondest childhood memories were the visits to the country. Fishing in the dam for yabbies, riding horses all day and campfires at night. Unfortunately my husband’s work

Gisborne. In saying that, quite a few have popped up over the last 12 months, which is fantastic. Eating out is something my family enjoy’s quite regularly.

(Damjan Janevski) 299661_01

Tell us a bit about you and what you do?

I’m a happily married, 41 year old mum of two beautiful girls. I also own and operate a small business called Oakfield Designs. I make unique stunning resin and timber furniture, from my home workshop in Gisborne.

I decided to jump head first into making an epoxy-timber coaster [during the pandemic].

My first attempt was absolutely woeful, and to this day I am too embarrassed to show anyone, but it was safe to say I was hooked, and was driven to be better. I began teaching myself how to improve the process by watching hours and hours of YouTube videos, and continued to practice my craft.

To win a national award that is judged by other entrepeneaur mums [at the AusMumpreneur Awards] was amazing, and I was deeply honoured. I was also asked to make two pieces for ’The Block’ this season, and can’t wait for it to air.

Woodworking is generally a male orientated industry, so a lot of ’proving’ was needed to be accepted and respected. I believe Oakfield Designs is now the premium boutique Epoxy River Table business in Melbourne. And must admit, being covered in sawdust and resin is probably my happy place.

commitments kept us in the suburbs until my mid-30s. He then was fortunate enough to land his dream job, where remote working wasn’t just accepted, it was encouraged. I always wanted my children to grow up in the fresh country air, surrounded by friendly outgoing people. The house hunting began in Gisborne, and it wasn’t long until we found our dream home. Believe it or not, it was right next door to my grandma’s previous home.

We settled in almost immediately, and I don’t think you could pay me enough to move down

in the suburbs again. We just love Gisborne.

What do you like about where you live?

The crisp fresh air up here is so nice, as are the outgoing friends and neighbours. We are surrounded by beautiful wineries, award winning restaurants, and an easy 45-minute drive to Melbourne. What’s not to like?

What, if anything, would you change about where you live?

I would love to see some more restaurants in

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

Our backyard! We are on an acre here in Gisborne, and it’s like having our very own patch of paradise. Surrounded by 50-year-old oak trees, it is private and feels like we are in our own private park. Entertaining our friends and family around our fire pit is so much fun.

If it’s a horrible cold and wet day – June until September up here – you will probably find us at the Collective, devouring the Portuguese Chicken or Jambalaya, paired perfectly with a local Pinot Noir.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.

I have recently been diagnosed with a chronic pain syndrome called CRPS. It stands for Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome. A rare condition, it developed after I underwent an ankle fusion surgery just over two years ago.

I suffered a horrible break in the ankle nearly 10 years ago, when I was 38 weeks pregnant with my daughter. The ankle developed bone on bone arthritis, and unfortunately had to be fused. So I now deal with invisible pain every single day, and under the care of a pain specialist to help deal with this. I couldn’t cope with CRPS without the love, care and understanding of my husband and children. I refuse to let this pain condition define me, and tackle each day with a smile.

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‘‘

improve safety and ease congestion in the heart of - Josh Bull our community

‘‘

’’

improve safety and ease congestion in the heart of - Josh Bull our community

’’

Concept design for the new-look Gap Road level crossing. (Supplied)

By Jessica Micallef The first concept design for the new-look Gap Road level crossing in Sunbury has been released.

Gap Road will be lowered under the rail line to preserve the character of the heritage-listed Sunbury station.

Construction on the project was brought forward to begin this year, with the level crossing expected to be removed by late 2022, and the remaining works completed in 2023 – two years ahead of the initial 2025 completion date.

About 19,000 vehicles pass through the Gap

Road level crossing each day, with the number expected to reach 27,000 in 2026, according to state government data.

A three-week community consultation period was held in November last year for the public to provide feedback on the design, landscaping and public artworks for the new level crossing.

Sunbury MP Josh Bull said more than 170 residents contributed to the preliminary design.

“The level crossing will be gone for good by the end of 2022, with a road under rail design as promised,” he said.

“This year we will see site investigations continuing as well as some early works, with

the majority of major construction towards the end of 2022.”

The level crossing removal is being delivered in conjunction with the $2.1 billion Sunbury line upgrade, which includes platform extensions, train stabling modifications and rail track power upgrades at Sunbury station to enable bigger and more modern trains to run on the line.

The line is expected to transport up to 113,000 passengers in peak hours every week when the Metro Tunnel is open.

“We promised to remove this crossing by 2025, but this vital project has been fast tracked to synchronise works between the level

crossing removal and the $2.1 billion Sunbury line upgrade,” Mr Bull said.

“It means we will only need to close the line for an extended period of time once, rather than twice, resulting in less disruption and a level crossing-free Sunbury three years ahead of schedule.

“This is a critical project that will improve safety and ease congestion in the heart of our community and it is time to get it done.”

The Gap Road level crossing will be the fourth crossing removed on the Sunbury line and is one of 75 “dangerous and congested” level crossings in Melbourne to be gone by 2025.

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Crossing design revealed

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COMMENT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Navigating the COVID-19 waves

By Christopher Carter, chief executive, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network Things have gone a bit quiet lately on the pandemic front, but what does this mean?

It was only a year or so ago that watching Premier Dan Andrews face off with against over-excited reporters was a daily media highlight.

Every day since the pandemic began, the Department of Health has published an infographic showing case numbers, vaccination statistics and lots of other bits and bobs. The chief health officer also issued daily email bulletins giving the same information, and more.

This month, both these things have downscaled to weekly. We’re seeing a steep drop in new case numbers, sliding from around 12,000 a day in July 2022 to around 2000 now.

For the first time in ages, it looks like the virus is in retreat. So, will the pandemic soon be over? Can we get back to normal now?

Sadly, the answer to both questions is “not really” – but there are lots of things we can do to make sure that our end of year holidays and celebrations, fast approaching, will be as safe and enjoyable as possible.

All pandemics – not just COVID-19, but also diseases such as flu – move in waves.

Cases build in numbers and then at some point shrink back down because of high rates of vaccination and previous infections.

Then, a bit later, the cycle starts again.

So far this year we’ve had three coronavirus waves. A really big one peaked in January.

The next two, peaking in May and July, were much smaller, in no small part because most of us got vaccinated.

Right now, case numbers are the lowest they been all year, but the experts say another wave is coming – most likely peaking

If you are eligible for a third or fourth COVID-19 booster, get the jab done.

in November.

There is nothing to indicate it will be bigger than the last two, and there are things we can all do to help make it even smaller, and shorter.

If you are eligible for a third or fourth COVID-19 booster, you should pop into your GP, a vaccination clinic or a participating pharmacy and get the job done. The figures are clear: third and fourth doses lower your risk of severe illness, hospitalisation and death if you catch the bug. Oral anti-viral treatments

(Damjan Janevski) 230083_04

are available now, too, but they must be taken soon after you get sick – so have a chat with a GP now to see if you’re eligible.

The best thing of course is to try to avoid catching it in the first place – and again there are a few simple things to keep us all safe.

Whatever the rules, it’s still a really good idea to wear a mask when you’re out at the shops, in big crowds, or on public transport.

It’s a quick, easy and considerate thing to do.

Keeping your distance from others is still useful, too.

Covering your coughs and sneezes and washing and/or sanitising your hands often remain great ways to reduce the spread of diseases – whether its COVID-19 or just a nasty cold.

So, no, the pandemic isn’t ending just yet, even though it looks like it. But if we all do our bit, we’ve got a good chance of surfing the next wave safely.

To find out more about COVID-19 vaccinations, go to coronavirus.vic.gov.au/ get-vaccinated

Mirrors reflect a big wild world at Werribee Zoo

The animals at Werribee Open Range Zoo are being introduced to their own reflection this month, with one important purpose – to stimulate their natural wild behaviours.

The thought-provoking activity, that involves zookeepers placing mirrors in animal habitats, is part of the Zoo’s multifaceted approach to provide the highest quality welfare for the animals in its care.

Werribee Open Range Zoo Australian natives coordinator, Jacinda Goodwin said mirrors have been introduced to Koalas, Orange-bellied parrots, Vervet monkeys, Slender tailed meerkats and Leopard tortoises to challenge their critical thinking and encourage beneficial social interactions.

“In the wild, animals would come across their own reflections when looking into a large body of water, so the mirrors are one of the methods we can use to replicate that experience at the zoo,” Ms Goodwin said.

“There are some species, such as the Vervet monkeys, that have the cognitive ability to look in the mirror and recognise their own reflection.

“This can be a great challenge for the monkeys; they don’t automatically recognise their reflection as themselves. Like a good brain teaser, we observe them investing considerable time into trying to work out who the other monkey is.

“Other animals, like Koalas and Orange-bellied parrots, may perceive their reflection as another member of their species, so

A koala walking along branch to look at its reflection in mirror held by Keeper, Jacinda Goodwin, during Mirror Enrichment. Right: A Leopard Tortoise and Orange-bellied Parrot check themselves out in the mirror. (Pictures: Zoos Victoria)

the reflections can stimulate social behaviours, such as investigation, vocalising or flocking.

“For other species, we may see a territorial response to perceiving another animal in their habitat through their reflection. This is a natural behaviour that they would exhibit in the wild when territories overlap, and in some social species, who live in mobs or packs, these experiences can encourage valuable group cohesion behaviours.”

12 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 4 October, 2022

Every animal in the care of Zoos Victoria’s three properties is given the opportunity to learn and encounter new challenges with a variety of enriching experiences offered daily.

Zoos Victoria animal behaviour specialist, Sue Jaensch said each experience is carefully and strategically designed, taking into account variables such as species, personality and age, to ensure it is engaging for its recipients.

“Zookeepers make sure that the animals

have the choice to participate and monitor their reaction, adjusting the activity for the individual if they need to,” Ms Jaensch said.

“They use their knowledge of species and the individuals they work with to continually enhance the lives of the animals in their care.”

Zoos Victoria members and Werribee Open Range Zoo visitors are reminded that all tickets must be pre-booked online.

Details: zoo.org.au

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‘‘

NEWS

When I first got tackled I was like, wow, this is next level

’’

- Mellissa Bragg

The versatility and talent Melissa Bragg displayed in her first year in the VFLW earned her a contract with the Cats’ AFLW side.

(Arj Giese)

Transition challenges for Bragg Former Super Netballer Melissa Bragg was contracted to the Geelong Cat’s AFLW side just before season seven kicked off.

She talks to Matt Hewson about the transition from one elite-level sport to the next.

M

elissa Bragg may still officially live in Werribee but the Cats’ latest recruit is no stranger to Geelong.

“I love Geelong, I started playing netball here when I was 14,” Bragg said.

“Mum used to to drive me down, then once I got a bit older I’d catch the train down then go back for school the next day when I was playing for East Geelong in the GFNL. “Then I started playing with Geelong Cougars as well, I went to uni in Geelong, so most of my life is down here.

“I work in Werribee at the moment still, so I go in between; my family house is in Werribee and my fiance lives in Geelong and we’re trying to buy a house here. So I’ve always done the travel between both.”

Bragg transitioned to football this year, playing in the VFLW season for Geelong and displayed enough talent and versatility to earn her new contract in the club’s AFLW squad, but it’s not the first time she’s received an offer from the Geelong Football Club.

“When Geelong first got a VFL team I’d just started playing netball at the elite level, and they contacted me and asked me if I wanted to come down for a kick,” Bragg said.

“But I actually said no, as I’d just started to make it at netball, which was a lifelong goal, to play netball at an elite level.

“And then at the end of last year, when I didn’t get re-contracted for netball, I ran into Renee Garing, who I knew quite well through netball. She asked if I’d heard anything from another netball club and I said ‘nah, I think I’m done with it’.”

Garing, with whom Bragg had played at Geelong Cougars, spoke to club, and soon Bragg got a call.

“I went down for a kick with Dan (Lowther,

Bragg trains with her new AFLW teammates.

(Geelong Football Club)

Geelong AFLW coach), and from there he said they wanted me to play VFL if I was interested, and it all started from there.”

As a netballer, Bragg was a plucky, agile player and despite, at 5’9”, being considered on the shorter side, she was known as someone who didn’t shy from a physical contest.

“I’ve probably always had the tag of being a physical player; netball is technically a non-contact sport, but we all know the physicality that comes with elite-level play,” she said.

“I quite enjoyed being an on the body,

physical player, and that’s transferred to footy too. But I can tell you right now, when I first got tackled I was like, wow, this is next level.

“The ones you’re expecting are alright, but when you get hit unexpectedly it’s a shock to the system. But one of my natural strengths is my physicality, so to bring that across to footy’s been pretty fun.”

Along with her competitiveness and willingness to go in hard at the ball, Bragg’s athleticism and agility, and the work ethic she developed playing netball at the national level, have helped elevate her to the AFLW.

Her former VFLW coach, Andrew Bruce, had nothing but praise for Bragg when asked to describe her game.

“Mel’s a highly competitive player who excelled in her first year at VFLW level,” Bruce said.

“She demonstrated her ability to play at both ends of the ground throughout the season, and her natural competitiveness and willingness to learn. Her key attributes will be a welcomed addition to our AFLW list.”

Bragg said her experiences as a netballer made the transition to AFLW a smooth one.

“The fitness and agility I needed to play through the midcourt has transferred across to football,” she said.

“In netball I’m considered on the shorter side, whereas in football I’m considered tall.

So now I’m one of the bigger bodies but I’ve got the fitness and agility of a smaller player, if that makes sense.

“As a footballer, I’m still working on my skills and developing my craft, but the standards that comes across from netball, being in that elite environment, has held me in good stead. I live and breathe it, day to day.”

Bragg said she still can’t believe she’s been contracted to play football at the highest level.

“The whole thing’s just been so unexpected,” she said.

“This time last week I was just at work, you know what I mean? It’s a big shock.

But the one thing I hold on to is my work ethic. I’ll always try my best, so as much as it’s a shock I think it’s a bit of a reward for effort as well.

“But I’m still just gobsmacked, to be honest. The change to football has been really refreshing and Geelong has been a really welcoming club. I’ve never felt out of place.”

Tuesday, 4 October, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 13

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Valentine’s at Hanging Rock

Celebrate Valentine’s Day under the stars at Hanging Rock with a special movie screening of Peter Weir’s 1975 film, Picnic at Hanging Rock.

The film, which is the 1967 novel by an adaption of the same name

by Joan Lindsay, revolves around the disappearance of several schoolgirls and their teacher during a Rock on Valentine’s picnic to Hanging Day Moviegoers are encour in 1900. aged to bring their own picnic for dinner, a chair, rug and a blanket and get cosy as the drama mystery film is screen ing.

For a bit of fun, come classic 1900’s costum dressed in a The film night is on e.

Saturday, February 13 from 7pm at Hangin g Rock, 139 South Rock Road, Woodend.

Tickets cost $25 for adults, $10 for children or $60 for a family of two adults and two children.

To book: bit.ly/3pzPyji

(Supplied)

Pick up your favourite local newspaper, the Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly from local outlets listed below or subscribe to our digital edition and have it sent to your device every week!

SECTION

Anti-vax leaflet slammed ‘‘

Jessica Micallef

By Jessica Micallef

Let’s not

McEwen MP Rob let false lies Mitchell is urging Sunbury residents to “tear spread as being facts up and throw anti-vaccination leaflets away” . It’s that may appear their letterbox. in dangerou s - Rob Mitchell Mr Mitchell said residen ts had notified him last Monday (Februa leaflets is from ry 1) about anti-vaccinatio American-based leaflets about the n IDoNotComp company, COVID-19 vaccine ly, which labels that had global been dropped in their movement that oppose itself as a letterbox.

The leaflet, seen by s COVID-19 regulations.

Star Weekly, stated should “avoid the people “It’s danger COVID and claims the “vaccin vaccine at all costs” People will ous that people are getting this. read e could this and wonder if potentially be he more deadly than it’s true,” said. “We are seeing the virus”.

Mr Mitchell believe out … it’s all garbage these theories being put s the sender of . Tear the leaflet up the put it in the bin.” and

’’

RADIOLOGY SAVES LIVES

How healthy is

Mr Mitchell said only contacted him about Sunbury residents had be done to combat potenti was concerned peoplethe leaflets so far, but he misinformation ally “deadly in surrounding areas ”. would also receive He said people should them. consult a doctor The leaflet also has or medical address to the organis a QR code and a web vaccinations professional when it came to and medica urged people not to ation’s site. Mr Mitchell “We don’t know who l treatment. scan the code. these people are and “It’s for your own that is why safety,” he said. “It we have medical experts from an American-base comes ,” he said.

“They have decade d organisation which s you’d think wouldn to understand these in training and learning ’t be so callous and things. They are the to make a stateme stupid to talk to. people nt like risk of dying of COVID ‘most people have no “Let’s not let false -19’. lies spread as being “This from a countr It’s dangerous. facts. y where tragica lly more than 440,000 deaths “What we have achieve have been recorded.” d in Victoria …

Mr Mitchell said an amazing job is more work needed to people spreadi and the last thing we need is ng theories.”

your heart?

Lake Imaging are offering a redu ced fee for all patients who book a CT Calcium Score test in Feb ruary and March.

Talk to your GP about this simp le test to determine your risk of cardiova scular disease.

www.lakeimagi ng.co

m.au 12481746-SN07-21

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• Bulla BP Service Station - Bulla 84-86 Bulla Road • Bulla Jack McKenzie Community Centre 11 Green Street • Clarkefield Coach and Horses Inn - Clarkfield 50 Station Street • Diggers Rest FoodWorks 22 Glitter Road • Diggers Rest Diggers Rest Post Office 76 Old Calder Highway • Diggers Rest Houdinis Cafe e Cucina 52-56 Old Calder Highway • Gibsorne Gisborne Village Fresh Brantome Street • Gibsorne Morgan’s SUPA IGA Gisborne Brantome Street • Gisborne Brad Teal Real Estate - Gisborne 40 Aitken Street • Gisborne Kennedy Hunt Real Estate - Gisborne 33 Brantome Street • Gisborne Gisborne Real Estate - Gisborne 38 Brantome Street • Gisborne Raine & Horne Real Estate 42 Brantome Street • Gisborne Gisborne Library 8 Hamilton Street • Gisborne Foodworks - Gisborne 24 Hamilton Street • Gisborne Macedon Ranges Health Service 76 Hamilton Street • Gisborne Gisborne Nursing Home - The Oaks 5 Neal Street • Gisborne Puma Service Station Gisborne 23 Robertson Street • Gisborne Caltex Service Station - Gisborne 4 Station Street • Kyneton Kuppers Fuel Stop - Kyneton 199 Burton Avenue

• Kyneton RT Edgar Real Estate - Kyneton 10 High Street • Kyneton Kyneton Newsagency 95 Mollison Street • Kyneton Kyneton Shire Offices 129 Mollison Street • Lancefield Lancefield Newsagency 18 High Street • Macedon United Service Station - Macedon 313 Black Forest Drive • Macedon IGA Supermarket - Macedon 20 Victoria Street • Macedon Macedon Newsagency 25 Victoria Street • Malmsbury General Store 75 Mollison Street • Monegeeta Newsagency 2076 Melbourne -Lancefield Road • Mount Macedon Mt Macedon Post Office 341 Mt Macedon Road • Riddells Creek Riddells Creek Nursery 675 Kilmore Road • Riddells Creek Riddells Creek Post Office 80 Main Road • Riddells Creek Foodies - Riddells Creek 86-88 Main Road • Riddells Creek Riddells Creek Supermarket 2 Station Street • Romsey Chess Property - Romsey 102 Main Street • Romsey IGA Supermarket - Romsey 107 Main Street • Sunbury Leeburn and Co Real Estate - Sunbury 6 Brook Street • Sunbury Sunbury Newsagency 14 Brook Street • Sunbury The Jolly Miller cafe Shop 2/2 Brook Street • Sunbury The Jolly Miller cafe Shop 2/2 Brook Street • Sunbury The Local Sunbury Bottleshop Shop 2b/15-17 Dornoch Drive • Sunbury Goonawarra General Store 23-25 Dornoch Drive • Sunbury Sunbury Neighbourhood House 531 Elizabeth Drive

• Sunbury Brad Teal Real Estate Sunbury 54 Evans Street • Sunbury Reliant Real Estate 11/114-126 Evans Street • Sunbury Muffin Break Shop 2/24 Evans Street • Sunbury Sunbury Square Shopping Centre Shop 2-28 Evans Street • Sunbury Terry White Chemist 83-85 Evans Street • Sunbury Gap Road Medical Centre 46 Gap Road • Sunbury United Fuel Sunbury 47 Gap Road • Sunbury 7-Eleven Sunbury 128 Gap Road • Sunbury Asia Finest Shop 4&5, 106-126 Gap Road • Sunbury Puma Service Station Sunbury 96 Horne Street • Sunbury Woolworths Supermarket 25-47 Horne Street • Sunbury Big W - Sunbury 25-47 Horne Street • Sunbury BP Service Station 53-55 Horne Street • Sunbury Sunbury Day Hospital 7 Macedon Street • Sunbury Hume Council Offices - Sunbury 40 Macedon Street • Sunbury Sunbury Information Centre 43 Macedon Street • Sunbury Sunbury Library 44 Macedon Street • Sunbury Community Health Centre Unit 12-28 Macedon Street • Sunbury McKwen Drive Milk Bar Shop 1-3 McEwen Drive • Sunbury Foodworks Bottlemart on Melba 16 Melba Avenue • Sunbury Foodworks on Melba 16-18 Melba Avenue • Sunbury Melba Cafe 22 Melba Avenue • Sunbury Mitchells Lane Milk Bar 192 Mitchells Lane

• Sunbury Just Planet 37 O’Shannesy Street • Sunbury An Apple a Day Natural Health Store 49 O’Shannesy Street • Sunbury The Spotted Owl 93 O’Shannesy Street • Sunbury Cafe Circe 109 O’Shannesy Street • Sunbury IGA Supermarket - Sunbury 98-122 O’Shannesy Street • Sunbury Killara Family Store - Sunbury 57 Phillip Drive • Sunbury Strathearn Glen Corner Store 10 Strathearn Drive • Sunbury Sacco & Saba Cafe 2/20-30 Sussex Street • Sunbury Rosenthal Shopping Centre 90 Vineyard Road • Tylden Tylden Store 36 Trentham Road • Woodend Keatings Real Estate - Woodend 83 Calder Highway • Woodend Coles Supermarket - Woodend 61 High Street • Woodend II cafe 66 High Street • Woodend Andrews Cafe 77 High Street • Woodend Fox in the Chamber 90 High Street • Woodend Jellis Craig Real Estate - Woodend 91 High Street • Woodend Maison Maloa Licensed Cafe & Gifts 95 High Street • Woodend Woodend Newsagency 101 High Street • Woodend Paysanne Cafe 112 High Street • Woodend Bourkies Bake House 115 High Street • Woodend RT Edgar Real Estate - Woodend 124 High Street • Woodend BP Service Station - Woodend 130 High Street • Woodend Woodend Community Centre High Street & Forest Street

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Tuesday, 4 October, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 15

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

Sunbury Art Society Looking to join a local art group?

The Sunbury Art Society meet at the Boilerhouse, Jacksons Hill every Friday and Saturday from 10am to 3pm to paint, draw, swap ideas, attend a demo or workshop and enjoy the company of like minded people.

New members welcome.

■ Ken, 0407 062 568 or Robyn, 0438 383 639

This week’s photographer’s choice was taken at the Julia Gillard Library where an animal farm was set up for school holidays.

Art and craft sale

(Joe Mastroianni) 301306_01

If you’re on the hunt for gift ideas, look no further. The Sunbury Art Society’s annual studio sale is on Saturday, November 26 and Sunday , November 27 from 10am to 4pm. Lots of Art and Crafts for sale, nothing over $120, just in time for Christmas. Blg 20, Boilerhouse Art Gallery, Jacksons Hill, Sunbury.

The Phoenix exhibition The Phoenix Macedon Ranges Art and Craft Group exhibition and sale is happening on December 3 (10am to 4pm) and 4 (9am to 4pm). The Sunday exhibit will coincide with the Gisborne Olde Time Market. Head along to see the group’s exquisite art and chat with the artists.

■ https://www.facebook.com/phoenixmrac/

Call for singers Would you fancy being on stage with the popular baritone Teddy Tahu Rhodes as one of the soloists? You could be doing just that if you join The Gisborne Singers and Bendigo Symphony Orchestra in Symphonia Choralis to be held from December 10 and 11 at the amazing Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo. There is a fee to participate (includes all workshops, concerts, music, midi files and six weeks of practices with The Gisborne Singers). Concession/Student $150, Full $170.

■ https://www.trybooking.com/CAGDQ.

Queers on the Catwalk Head along to the Queers on the Catwalk pre-event workshop. Come and explore your style and identity with TGD Clothing Swap and PollyFIlla Productions. Saturday, October, 22, Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, 1 Caroline Chisholm Drive, Kyneton ■ To register email healthpromotion@scchc. org.au, or 5421 1666

Monthly comedy Sunbury Sunbury’s newest standup comedy night is coming to town. Sunbury Comedy @ Piano on Evans will run on the first Thursday of every month, at 8pm. The first show is coming up on October 6. It’s $15 entry at 67A Evans Street, Sunbury.

Village connect A new service for older people and carers provided by Macedon Ranges council for residents over 55 years old to stay socially connected, chat with others in the community and enjoy some free coffee and cake. Happening on Tuesdays and Thursday at cafes across the municipality, there’s sure to be one near you.

■ https://bit.ly/3AMUrxm or 5422 0262

Arts and games night Get creative at the Sunbury Youth Centre as part of an art and games night each Wednesday at the Sunbury Youth Centre, 3.30pm to 5.30pm. There’s a range of arts and crafts to try, and if art isn’t your thing, there’s a wide variety of games.

The program is for people aged 12 to 18 years old and is free. 51-53 Evans Street, Sunbury.

Carer connect chat Are you caring for someone close to you?

Go and connect with other carers in your local area, share a light lunch, have a chat at 12pm on the first Wednesday of the month. Head to Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, 1 Caroline Chisholm Drive, Kyneton.

■ 9744 9267 or deb.mccallum@scchc.org.au

HarmoniX Vocal Company Get involved with an all-male, auditioned singing group happening on Thursday evening, 7pm to 9.30pm in Sunbury. The group is inviting new members to join. The group also has a mixed choir, DynamiX Vocal Company, rehearsing Tuesday evenings. 7pm to 9.30pm. Both groups rehearse at Dulap Wilim Hub, 11 Leichardt Street, Sunbury. No auditions required, just bring your love of music.

■ harmonixvcinc@gmail.com

Chill Out Sunbury

Rotary club

Are you between 12 and 18 years old and want to engage with other young people, participate in activities such as trivia, games, art, music, competitions, personal development and more? Chill Out Sunbury is for you. It’s free and happens every Wednesday, 3.30-5.30pm at the Sunbury Youth Centre, 51-53 Evans Street.

■ https://bit.ly/3lmVgVh

The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Sunbury Bowling Club from 7pm.

■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club Get involved with a welcoming, fun, social group of women who have spread the word of ladies badminton since 1999. Social games are on Mondays, 9.30am-noon, and team competitions are on Thursdays, 9.30am-12.30pm at Eric Boardman Stadium, Wilsons Lane.

■ sunburylbc@gmail.com

Come have a chat Jacksons Creek Combined Probus Visit or become a new member of the Jackson’s Creek Combined Probus Club, gathering on the second Monday of each month at the Sunbury Football Club at 10am. Enjoy outings and meetings each month with a friendly group of men and women, and twice yearly trips away staying in cabins and caravans.

■ Doug, 5428 3317, or Teresa, 9746 3402

Craft and conversation If you’re a passionate crafter and want some company, why not head down to the Sunbury Library on Mondays at noon for the craft and conversation group. The program is free and open to people aged 15 years and older.

■ https://bit.ly/39BIu2O

Delve into deeper topics and enjoy intriguing conversations by joining the Table 8 Discussion Group. The key theme for the coming months will be kindness.

The chats take place every Tuesday from 10.30-11.30am at Macedon Lounge, 40 Victoria Street, Macedon.

■ Carol, 0431 186 575

Family History and Heritage Society If you’ve got a hankering to learn more about Sunbury and even your own family history, why not check out the Sunbury Family History and Heritage Society, meeting at 1.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at the Sunbury Senior Citizens Centre, 8 O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury.

■ https://bit.ly/3jvM6oJ

Lancefield park run relaunch Sunbury badminton fun The Sunbury Badminton Club has a new extra playing time on Wednesdays, 10am-noon. All are welcome to attend at Clarke Oval Stadium, 49 Riddell Road, with equipment provided and coaching available.

Playing for the first time is free.

■ sunburybc@gmail.com

16 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 4 October, 2022

Lace up your runners and join the relaunch of Lancefield’s 5km park run, happening every Saturday at 8am at Lancefield Park.

No need to be speedy - participants can go at any pace. Make your way to 62 Chauncey Street, Lancefield, and remember to register.

■ https://bit.ly/3IEDB4L

Ladies probus The Woodlands Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury meets on the fourth Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 9.45 am. The club is based on fun, friendship and fellowship and enjoys monthly outings, an annual trip away and a lot of fun meetings.

■ Leonie, 0401 764 182

Sunbury Ladies Probus Club The Sunbury Ladies Probus Club meets at 9.30am on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Sunbury Football Social Club rooms. The friendly group of women enjoy outings, film mornings, speakers and presenters, as well as special events like holidays and bus trips. New members are warmly welcomed.

■ Pat, 0433 789 754, or Sylvia, 0417 170 142

Sunbury Combined Probus Club The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Football Social Club at 10am.

■ Carmel, 0416 477 271

Toastmasters Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Toastmasters helps its members develop their public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7.20-9.30pm, at the Sunbury Senior Citizens Hall.

■ vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

Garden club The Sunbury Garden Club meets on the first Tuesday of every month. There is a guest speaker at each meeting, which starts at 7.30pm at the Sunbury Football Club.

■ Cheryl, 9744 1663

PUZZLES No. 101

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.

easy

8 5 7 4 2 3 2

Distress caused by being away from residence (8) Take (6) Components (5) Beatles song, — Wood (9) Polynesian island (6) English musician, Phil — (7) Lively (8) Respiratory disorder (6) Scattered (6) Fish that swims in an upright posture (8) Stand (7) Long, narrow strip of fabric (6) At the beginning (9) Show amusement (5) Form of sound reproduction (6) Turkish symbol (8)

5 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 20 21 24 27 28 29 30

8 3 1 2 9

Cocktail containing tequila and citrus juice (9) Japanese dish (5) Think about (8) Mildly irritates (7) Evidence of being elsewhere (5) Visible features of an area (9) Reptile of NT waters, briefly (4) Hired killers (9) Produce pleasing combination (9) One who exposes another (8) Holiday destination (7) Oily fruit (5) High ground (4) Foundation (5) Relish (4)

2

ACROSS 1

No. 101

3 4 6 7 8 9 14 16 17 19 22 23 25 26

DOWN Areas on each side of the pelvis (4)

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Today’s Aim: 21 words: Good 32 words: Very good

C

D

E

U

No. 101 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

R R E D E S

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P A N S A B O O G L O W

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4 LETTERS ADDS CLAD DATA DEVO EBBS EYED LAWS LESS LEWD REDS SEES SICS SLOB ZERO 5 LETTERS ABYSS

FULLS GRATE HEADY HONEY IDLER INANE IRATE ITEMS LATHS LILTS MOPED NASAL OASIS OILED PEDAL RADIO SHIPS SINEW SLYER SPENT STARS

STEEP SWEEP TENSE TILDE TOAST TOTEM URINE

7 LETTERS EDUCATE HOWEVER REALITY TIPSIER TRAINER UNAWARE

6 LETTERS GOATEE ORATOR SPHERE WEEDED

8 LETTERS FORSAKES FRESHMEN HONESTLY PROPHECY

07-10-22

S T A

5 1 9 8 7 6 2 3 4

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S

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2 7 6 1 3 4 8 9 5

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W

ADAPT ADMIT ALIKE ALOUD AMONG APTER ARISE BATHE BRACE BUSTS CACHE CHINA CHOSE CHUTE CRAZE DATES DRAMA DRIVE EDGED ETHIC FATAL

QUICK QUIZ

1

Arugula, oak leaf and crisphead are varieties of what?

6

The Hate U Give (2017) and On the Come Up (2019) are novels by which US author?

2

How many countries are part of the United Nations?

7

In what year was RPG Stardew Valley first released?

3

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8

Megan Fox (pictured) stars as Jennifer Check in which 2009 black comedy horror film?

9

4

In music, how many notes are in a whole-tone scale?

And who wrote the screenplay?

5

A capsule hotel is a type of hotel first developed in which country?

E

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5x5

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 words ending in “s”.

T

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

10 11 12 13

9-LETTER WORD

43 words: Excellent

hard

9

10 What is albedo?

ANSWERS: 1. Lettuce 2. 193 3. South Sudan 4. Six 5. Japan 6. Angie Thomas 7. 2016 8. Jennifer’s Body 9. Diablo Cody 10. The proportion of light reflected by a heavenly body

26

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Tuesday, 4 October, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 17

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Fleming Constructions is seeking a: 1st and 3rd year Apprentice Carpenter A rare opportunity to come on board with a high achieving local builder operating in the Macedon Ranges.

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ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE 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.

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which NBA team does Australian basketball player Patty Mills play for?

2. Who won the 2022 Australian Open men's doubles title?

3. In fencing, what does the command ‘allez’ mean?

4. In the sports comedy film Blades of Glory, what sport is the film centred on?

5. For the annual AFL Mad Monday celebrations, what did premiership winners Geelong Cats dress up as?

13. The 2022 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup featured how many competing national teams?

6. Which city hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics?

14. The Queensland outback town of Boulia is known for hosting races involving what animals?

7. Who is the head coach for the NRL team The Penrith Panthers?

15. Which NRL player was awarded the 2021 Dally M Medal?

8. True or false: In golf, a putter club is used for far distances?

16. Which sport involves players trying to hit a small ball into a goal net, or between upright posts above the goal crossbar, using a wooden stick?

9. What nationality is Formula One racer Carlos Sainz Jr? 10. How many times has Geelong player Joel Selwood played in a Grand Final?

11. After winning the 2022 title, how many times has Australian professional surfer Stephanie Gilmore been crowned World Champion?

12. Which two teams faced off in the 2022 AFL Grand Final?

17. Ime Udoka most recently coached which NBA team?

18. Aaron Judge most recently played for which Major League Baseball team?

19. Who was the only nonNBA player on the goldmedal winning 1992 US men’s Olympic Basketball team?

20. Which Australian professional racing driver holds the Supercars Championship record for career driver championships and race wins?

Joel Selwood

21. The NRL State Championship is played between the premiers of which two state leagues?

22. Where did the Australian Opals finish in their group in the group stages of the 2022 FIBA Women’s World Cup? 23. Who won the 2022 AFL Grand Final Norm Smith Medal?

24. Which NBL teams plays home matches at MyState Bank Arena?

26. Actor Burt Reynolds was a star in which sport during his school years?

27. What was the real first name of legendary horse trainer Bart Cummings?

28. Australian Jack Jenkins is a rising star in which sport?

29. Before the 2022 FIFA World Cup, how many times had host nation Qatar qualified for the finals?

30. Australian NBA star Joe Ingles currently plays for which team?

25. The Australian MotoGP is held at which circuit each year?

Carlos Sainz Jr. 1. Brooklyn Nets 2. Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrgios 3. To begin fencing 4. Figure skating 5. Old men 6. Salt Lake City, Utah 7. Ivan Cleary 8. False 9. Spanish 10. Six times 11. Eight 12. Geelong Cats and Sydney Swans 13. 12 14. Camels 15. Tom Trbojevic 16. Hurling 17. Boston Celtics 18. New York Yankees 19. Christian Laettner 20. Jamie Whincup 21. New South Wales and Queensland 22. First 23. Isaac Smith 24. Tasmania JackJumpers 25. Phillip Island 26. American Football 27. James 28. UFC 29. Zero times 30. Milwaukee Bucks

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Tuesday, 4 October, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 19

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Hyundai moves people in style

There’s nothing subtle about the styling of the Hyundai Palisade large SUV / people mover. (Pictures: Supplied)

By Ewan Kennedy, Marque Motoring Hyundai Palisade is a large Korean-built SUV, or people mover to use the older definition for a vehicle in this class. It has received major upgrades as well as substantial styling changes for the 2023 model year, so it’s worth us taking a look at it again with a full road test.

A major feature in the Palisade is the Hyundai Bluelink system that can be connected to the from anywhere via a smartphone. Owners can send planned routes and receive emergency assistance automatically after an accident.

They can even remotely lock or start their car with their preferred climate settings, therefore have their Palisade sitting waiting for them all warmed up and ready to go.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Palisade Elite 3.8-litre petrol 2WD: $65,900 Palisade Highlander 3.8-litre petrol 2WD: $75,900 Palisade Elite 2.2-litre diesel AWD: $69,900 Palisade Highlander 2.2-litre diesel AWD: $79,900 SPECIFICATIONS Hyundai Palisade Highlander 2.2-litre diesel AWD

Styling Palisade is a large vehicle with styling that is in the look-at-me class – nothing subtle here.

Styling changes for 2023 include a parametric shield grille design flanked by vertically stacked LED headlights.

The Highlander variant we reviewed has exclusive design touches, including a satin chrome finish to the grille with matching logo badge and skid plate finishes. There are hidden-type turn signals, body-coloured cladding and exclusive 20-inch wheels with a 15-spoke turbine design.

Interior Hyundai Palisade can be optioned with either a seven-seat or eight-seat layout, the former offering two individual captain-type chairs in the middle row. This was our test vehicle and it has a real feeling of luxury of the type normally only offered in a limousine.

Additional luxuries for Highlander variants include heated and ventilated front and second-row seats now for both seven- and eight-seat variants.

Highlander also gains exclusive interior finishes, quilted seat inserts, quilted and perforated door trim inserts, suede headlining and stainless-steel front speaker grilles, and door/cargo area scuff plates.

Every Highlander variant is available with Black Nappa leather with luxury quilting and Gloss Black/Pinstripe trim, with the further options of Warm Grey and Dark Khaki Nappa leather with unique wood-look trim dependent on the exterior colour.

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Hyundai dealer for drive-away prices.

Infotainment A 12.3-inch touchscreen multimedia system is now standard on all Palisade models. Features include wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; six USB-C and one USB-A ports; Bluetooth message playback; embedded satellite navigation with live traffic updates; wireless smartphone charging; and a voice memo function with up to 70 minutes recording time; There’s also AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio although the latter cuts out when driving through cuttings or when there’s multiple trees in the centre island or simply in country driving.

The 12-speaker Infinity audio system in our Palisade produced excellent sound quality and could be adjusted to suit our needs.

Safety Hyundai Palisade has lap-sash safety belts for all occupants. This isn’t as common as it should be because too many competitors have a lap-only belt in the centre-rear spot.

An expanded suite of SmartSense driver assistance and advanced active safety features is used in the 2023 Palisade. It now incorporates forward collision-avoidance assist with junction turning function, intelligent speed limit assist, a multi anti-collision

20 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 4 October, 2022

braking system.

There’s a surround view monitor, a reverse light guide function as well as reverse parking collision-avoidance assist. The latter a real bonus when you’re reversing a large people mover out of a tight spot in a shopping centre.

It was also handy in the underground carpark in our apartment block where roof pillars and other vehicles are pretty close.

With Bluelink, the 2023 Palisade has automatic collision notification and SOS emergency call function.

There’s a natural language server-based voice control and server-based connected routing navigation.

Driving Getting into the front and two middle-row seats is easy. As you would expect the rearmost seats are a bit of squeeze to get in and out. But as that’s the area normally used by the littlies in your family there’s little hassle. And the juniors are more than happy to be as far from mum and dad as possible…

Yet again I had problems seeing the information that’s displayed on the windscreen.

My polarising sunglasses could not see it unless I tilted my head slightly to one side or the other.

Obviously, I could look at the instruments in their normal position, but that’s a little less safe

than having a view of the forward traffic and the dials at the same time.

Other car brands have solved this problem so it’s time Hyundai did.

Palisade is impressive in the way that it drives, all the more so when you remember this is a five-metre-long vehicle where its main aim in life is to carry up to eight people. It’s certainly not sporty but you do feel that it wants to follow your directions through the steering wheel and throttle pedal.

There’s some bump-thump over the joints on the road but we have felt worse. And some road roar on concrete surfaces, but on bitumen it’s nice and refined.

Fuel consumption was in the nine to 11 litres per hundred kilometres around town in the suburbs and on hilly and winding roads. This dropped dramatically to just five to seven litres during easy paced driving on level roads and on 110 km/h motorways.

Summing up Hyundai Palisade is a reasonably priced, high-quality people mover that’s does everything it’s intended to do with plenty of aplomb. It’s significantly cheaper than upmarket European vehicles in the same class and certainly deserves a place on your short list of models to consider.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Kyneton women start season on a winning note It was mixed results for the Kyneton Tigers as they hit the road in the Basketball Victoria Country Basketball League north-west opening round.

Both the women’s and men’s teams had a tough start to the season facing the Mildura Heat in Mildura on Saturday night and then faced the Swan Hill Flyers in Swan Hill the following day.

The women’s side started their season with two big wins.

On Saturday night against the Heat, the Tigers blew the margin out in the second half.

The Tigers led by just one point at half time, before running away with a 90-67.

Michelle Fletcher was among those to hit the scoreboard early in the game.

They then hit the road again to face the Flyers.

It was a close first half, with the Tigers leading by nine points at the main break.

An 18-4 third quarter made sure the Tigers remained in control.

They finished full of run with their highest scoring quarter to win, 75-39.

Adrienne Cameron top scored with 17 points as three players scored double figures.

It was a much tougher weekend for the men’s side who couldn’t come away with a win.

On Saturday night against the Heat, the Tigers lost 101-70.

The Heat won every quarter on the way to the big win. In good signs for the Tigers, they only lost the high scoring last quarter by one point.

Brendan McCartney top scored with 15 points for the Tigers.

The Tigers then backed it up on Sunday against the Flyers. It was one way traffic for much of the match with the Flyers winning 103-56.

McCartney backed up his performance, top scoring again this time with 16 points.

Both Tigers teams have byes this week.

This year teams play a condensed season with several matches in short period of time.

The Macedon Ranges Rockies teams both started their seasons with losses.

The men’s side that played finals last season, lost to the Maryborough Blazers, 79-70. Just

two points separated the teams at the last break after the Rockies worked their way back into the game in the third quarter.

Jacob Poyser top scored with 24 points.

The women’s team in their first ever match, lost to the Blazers 100-44.

Olivia Ogston and Molly Garrahan top scored with 12 points a piece.

The Rockies face the Bacchus Marsh Lions this Sunday.

Tara Murray

Adrienne Cameron

(Mark Wilson)

Fox steps up as Gisborne’s new coach

Steven Boyall

(Supplied)

Boyall claims top medal

By Tara Murray Wallan’s Steven Boyall didn’t think he had much of a chance of taking out the Riddell District Football League Bowen Medal until his phone started to go hot before the night.

A key for the Magpies in their preliminary final run, Boyall made it back-to-back Bowen Medal winners from Wallan on Friday night Boyall polled 29 votes to finish ahead of Riddell’s Mick Edwards who polled 21 votes.

Woodend-Hesket’s Jack Arceri finished third on 18 votes.

Boyall said he didn’t know what to expect heading into the night.

“It was nice to win,” he said. “I try not to think about these things too much.

“A lot of messages came in saying good luck and I got a bit nervous. I didn’t know what to expect, but it was a bit of a relief to win after all the messages.”

Boyall said he thought he had a pretty consistent season, which was reflected in the voting.

He said having no injuries also helped meant

he was fresher heading into games.

While the Bowen Medal is nice recognition of his season, Boyall said it would have been nicer if they had a premiership to show for it as well.

“That still hurts,” he said of being knocked out in the preliminary final. “We’ll look to move forward and have another crack next year.”

It was a big night for the Wallan boys as they made a clean sweep of the football awards.

Matthew Traynor won the James Scarbrough Medal as the best and fairest in the reserves, while Spencer Whittington won the Charles Watson Medal was the under-19.5 best and fairest winner.

Boyall said it was really good for the club to see that recognition across the board.

“Matty Traynor should be playing senior footy,” he said. “Spencer, I haven’t seen a lot of him play. He played one game for us before getting injured.

“It’s good for the club and it’s a nice reward.

It’s recognition of how good the club is going.”

In other awards, Edwards claimed the Steve

Turner rising gun award for the best young player.

Boyall said he didn’t realise that Edwards was that young and tipped he would be a gun player for many years to come.

Corey Grindlay won the player of the year award as voted by the coaches.

Wallan led the way with players in the team of the year, with seven players making the final 22.

Boyall and Grindlay were named in the team along with Michael Mannix, Corey Viani, Sean Morris, Matthew Perri and Ricky Schraven.

Diggers Rest’s Taylor Hine, Luke Delahey, Mitch Jensen, Marcus Calvaresi and Mitch Day all featured in the team.

Riddell also had five representatives, Edwards, Ben Sonogan, Callum Williamson, Josh Grabham and Riley Paterson.

There were three representatives from Macedon and two from Romsey. First year Woodend-Hesket coach Josh Pound was named coach of the year.

Wallan won club of the year ahead of Diggers Rest and Woodend-Hesket.

A former Gisborne star has been appointed coach of the club for next year’s Bendigo Football League season.

The Bulldogs announced on Friday that club hall of fame inductee Brad Fox had been appointed coach for next season.

He takes over from premiership winning coach Rob Waters, who stays on as an assistant coach.

The club announced that Waters had informed them of his decision not to continue on as senior coach, having coached the club the last three seasons.

“The GFNC is delighted and excited to announce the appointment of Brad Fox as senior football coach,” the club said on social media.

“Brad has been involved in 16 grand finals across the AFL, Riddell District, Essendon District and Bendigo football leagues with a total of 13 premierships.

“After playing for the Richmond and Essendon AFL clubs, Brad joined the GFNC in 1994 as a 24-year-old captain-coach.

“Over his first three seasons as coach with Gisborne, the club reached the preliminary final twice and blooded a generation of local footballers that went on to enjoy great success.

“To accommodate work commitments, Brad stepped down to the role of playing-assistant coach in 1997 and played for Gisborne in the hat-trick of premierships in 1997, 1998 and 1999.”

After leaving Gisborne, Fox was a premiership playing-assistant coach at Keilor.

In 2001 and 2002, he was ‘opposition team analyst’ for the Brisbane Lions in the first two of their AFL Premierships and then Victorian manager for the Lions in the premiership year of 2003 and the Grand Final loss of 2004.

He then had a stint at Rupertswood before returning to Gisborne and was an assistant coach in the club’s under-18 premiership.

Fox will be supported by assistant coaches Dallas Normington, Shaun Cassidy and Waters.

The club thanked Waters for his work.

“Rob’s enthusiasm and experience has been fundamental in the development of our players, culminating in an inspirational win in the 2022 BFNL grand final.”

Tuesday, 4 October, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 21

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Sunbury goes into bat to secure a finals spot Sunbury has strengthened its batting line up as it aims for finals in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 3.

The Roar’s bowling attack has been its strength since coming to the VTCA, bowling them to victory on several occasions.

But their batting has been hit and miss at times.

New coach Jace Carton said that was the area they knew they needed to boost for this season.

“We can easily bowl out sides,” he said.

“The players we targeted have added strength to the squad and we are looking really good.

“We know what we needed to get and we’ve filled those positions. We’ve recruited quite well.

“We’re aiming for finals and hoping to get a home final and finish top two.”

Carton said they had added four players who they believe will play in their first XI. He said some players who had been looking not to play had returned as well in another bonus.

“We’ve brought in good quality players, so our first and second sides will be very strong.

“There are also players that haven’t returned, but we’ve replaced them and it’s flowing down into the second XI. “Our depth is looking really strong.”

Former Diggers Rest Bulla coach Kevin Barker has signed with the Roar. He also previously played for Rupertswood, while also having stints in Victorian Premier Cricket and the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association. He has also played over in the United Kingdom.

Sajith Kalumpria is an opening bat and wicketkeeper who played 60 first class games in Sri Lanka, Carton’s son Issac Carton, who was playing Victorian Premier Cricket at the Greenvale Kangaroos, has followed his dad across.

Amrit Sandhu, a middle order leg spinner, has come across from Sunbury United.

The Roar was set to kick off its season on

Saturday against Glenroy, but the round was postponed until December 4 due to not enough grounds being ready.

The Roar are set to face Grand United this week, but Carton like many other coaches aren’t sure enough grounds will be ready this week to start play as heavy rain continues to cause issues.

After the first three seasons in the VTCA playing outside of Sunbury, the club will be able to play games at their home ground, Clarke Oval, this season.

Carton said they were looking forward to that opportunity.

In another good sign, Carton said they were confident of getting their under-18 turf side up and going.

The side is the only turf one in that age group in the Sunbury and Macedon Ranges area.

Tara Murray Amrit Sandhu.

(Shawn Smits) 201645_18

Sports shorts EDFL There could be two new teams in the Essendon District Football League next season. The EDFL board last week approved the applications of Deer Park and St Albans to join the competition for 2023. The Western Region Football League, where the two teams currently play, has a period of 10 days to decide whether to object to the two applications, with AFL Victoria to have the final decision. Both teams have been playing in WRFL division 1.

Basketball Former Sunbury junior Sara Blicavs won bronze as part of the Australian Opals side at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup. Blicavs played a vital role for the Opals stepping into the starting line up late in the tournament following an injury to Bec Allen. The Opals beat Canada in the bronze medal game, 95-65. Blicavs finished with 12 points in that match. It capped off a big week for the Blicavs family, with her brother Mark Blicavs part of Geelong’s premiership side.

Bowls

Tayissa Coppinger

(Supplied)

Coppinger snares award

By Tara Murray Woodend-Hesket’s Tayissa Coppinger is the Riddell District Netball League’s best player after being crowned the Ryan Medallist on Friday night.

The medal, which is for the best player voted by the umpires in the A-grade competition, was fought out by the defenders.

Coppinger won on 23 votes, four clear on Wallan’s Karina Martin with Macedon’s Katie Clarke a further vote back.

The top five poll getters were defenders.

Coppinger said she was shocked after it was announced she had won the medal. She had already won the player of the year, which is voted by the coaches.

“It was surprising but good,” she said.

“People were saying that I would be up there, but I didn’t know.

“There were quite a few Woodend people at the presentation night which was good. I had a lot of emotions.”

For Coppinger it was her first season at the Hawks. She had played with Macedon a couple of seasons ago.

She said for her this season was just about going out and having fun on the court.

“I thought I had a pretty good season,” she said.

“I was just really having fun playing alongside Meg [Grbac]. Every game was fun and we were always laughing.

“Having all those girls around me made it easy.”

Coppinger is the second Hawk to win the Ryan Medal, with Grbac winning it last season.

The two defenders were named in the team of the year, as was teammate Sarah Duff.

It’s the first time the Hawks have had that many players named in the team of the year.

Coppinger was full of praise for the club.

“Woodend is a really good club,” she said.

“Not just the girls in the side, but the whole program, is a great bunch of people.

“The club is so supportive of everyone and has been really welcoming.”

The awards cap off a big season for the Hawks, with their A-grade side playing in their first finals series and a grand final.

While they didn’t come away with the premiership, Coppinger said they were so

22 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 4 October, 2022

proud of what they did.

“To even make the grand final was a massive achievement,” she said.

“It will make us bigger and stronger next season and make us even hungrier.

“The club is super proud and we’re grateful for the support.”

Coppinger’s role with the Hawks came as she combined playing in the Victorian Netball League.

While it’s a lot of work, Coppinger said the friendships and the social side made it worth it.

Joining the three Hawks in the team of the year is Macedon duo Katie Clarke and Chloe Williams, Diggers Rest’s Alexandra Ball, Anica Scherer and Shelby strong, Wallan’s Sidonie Moore and Riddell’s Ellen Close.

Diggers Rest premiership coach Pam Strong was named coach of the team of the year.

The Burras Brooke Seidel won the B-grade best and fairest, Western Rams Percilla Hetaraka Kelly won the C-grade best and fairest, while Eliza Butterworth Gonebale won the under-19 best and fairest.

Butterworth Gonebale also won the rising star award.

Action in the Central Highlands Bowls Division kicked off on Saturday. While division 1 and 3 start this Saturday, there was action in division 2 on Saturday. Romsey 2, Kyneton Golf 2, Kyneton 2 and Gisborne 2 were the winners, while Kilmore had the bye.

There will again be nine teams in the top competition again in Broadford, Gisborne, Kilmore, Kyneton, Kyneton Golf, Lancefield, Romsey and Trentham.

GDCA Kilmore will make its Gisborne and District Cricket Association debut against Macedon in the Johnstone Shield. The season is set to get underway this weekend across all the men’s grades. In other Johnstone Shield matches, Riddell will host Kyneton, Romsey plays Sunbury United, Gisborne hosts Bacchus Marsh and Eynesbury plays Aintree.

In the Jensen Shield, St Anthonys hosts Bacchus Marsh, Hanging Rock hosts the Sunbury Kangaroos and Malmsbury plays Blackwood.

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

Thunder go bang with first signing East Sunbury’s return to the Essendon District Football League division 2 competition has received a massive boost, with the club signing Shylo Smith.

Smith, a premier player in both the EDFL and Western Region Football League, joins the Thunder as an assistant coach to playing coach Aaron Kite.

For Kite, who played in an EDFL division 1 premiership with Smith, it’s a signing he was excited to get over the line.

“I played with Shylo at Doutta Stars and he has leadership qualities,” he said. “I didn’t think we had any chance at all of getting him.

“We made the right phone calls and he’s living in Sunbury as well. He’s keen to settle down and play for the next couple of years and help develop a team.

“It’s nice to have that experience on board.”

The signing of Smith is the first of a many expected to be announced by the Thunder in

the coming weeks.

Kite admits it has been tough with a lot of hard work behind the scenes trying to get things on track.

He said they were happy with how things were looking so far. He said that a few ex-teammates were among those that they’ve spoken to.

‘There’s been a number of signings for the senior group,’ he said. “Numbers across the board are promising.

“We probably thought we would get under-18s and seniors up, now it’s looking like we’ll possibly get reserves as well.

The club is happy where things are at.”

Kite said the key for the club next year would be getting former players back to the club to help rebuild the program.

He said several had been waiting to see what the club was doing before recommitting.

“Everyone is still in the end of season mode

and a lot of clubs are active,” he said.

“We’ve been trying to get a few home grown players back, but a few have been on the fence.

“They left for a reason before the club decided not to have teams. To need to reinforce them we are on track.

“They are the key players we need back around the club.”

Kite said they were keen to announce some more signings in the next few weeks before pre-season training starts in five weeks.

For the first year coach he’s learning a lot on the go.

“It’s been a learning curve for myself,” he said. “I haven’t done any of the recruiting stuff before.

“I’m looking forward to planning pre-season and getting started. From the outset we want to be competitive and want to build from there.”

Tara Murray

Rupo backs in talent

Rupertswood’s Daniel Kavanagh.

(Shawn Smits) 205195_06

He said with a return to two-day cricket, the impact of games being cancelled and others going ahead would be greater.

Many competitions across Melbourne were called off at the weekend.

Rupertswood’s first match is a one-dayer

(Damjan Janevski) 300876_01

Take a swing at softball comp

By Tara Murray Rupertswood coach Andrew Pizaro is hoping a different approach to pre-season will pay dividends in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup. With a similar looking group to the last few years, Pizaro decided to change things in pre-season as they look to be more than competitive in every grade.

He said things were really moving forward at the club.

“This year we’ve got a different approach to training,” he said. “It’s a completely different approach.

“We are focusing on developing skills. All our sides [except the McIntyre Cup] have gone up one level.

“Our seconds have pushed into Jensen Shield.

My expectation is to have more than three or four sides in the finals. We want to have a genuine crack.”

Rupo’s core group of players have returned this season, while a few players who have played in lower grades are looking to make the step up.

Rupo finished last season in ninth with two wins after coming up into the top grade as they expanded the competition to 10 teams.

“I’m persisting with what we have been doing,” Pizaro said. “No one player suddenly wins you a premiership.

“If you have two or three of them it helps, but a lot of the time it’s the ones that have been there throughout that win it for you.

With players coming through, Pizaro said they could look a little bit different in their first XI but the core group remains.

“Trent Hayes has been in the lower grades with his brothers,” he said. “He’s a talented cricketer who will be playing higher this year.

“Bradley Clapham wanted to play with us last year but had to work. He had been at Coburg and will be in the mix.

“Ned Crotty, Kyle Corcoran, Alex Bond and Daniel Kavanagh are all a year older and a year wiser.”

Pizaro said they believed they were on the right track with a lot of young talent coming through.

He highlighted their under-15 team as one to watch.

“We believe we have a lot of really good kids coming through,” he said.

“Our under-15 side is a bottom-age side and they’re playing in the A-grade division. We think we can give it a good shake up.”

The GDCA season is set to kick off this Saturday.

Pizaro said he wasn’t sure whether they would get on or not, with many grounds still feeling the effects of heavy rain in recent weeks.

Shylo Smith.

against Diggers Rest Bulla.

In other first round matches, Bacchus Marsh is to host Gisborne, Sunbury United is at home to Romsey, the Sunbury Kangaroos are hosting Woodend and East Sunbury will play Wallan.

Sunbury Softball Association is hoping to grow its numbers again after a tough few years due to the pandemic.

The association, like many other sporting associations, has seen a drop off in numbers with parents and children looking at other things to do.

Association president Karen Wallace they were focused on trying to provide opportunities for as many people as possible to play softball locally.

“After COVID we are still trying to rebuild,” she said. “COVID did a lot of damage.

“We have a women’s competition running and a junior program on Friday nights at the moment.

“We want to extend that to Saturdays and encourage the kids to get out and play. We want to get kids back into being active again.”

Wallace said there were going to have three possibly four teams in their women’s competition this year.

She said they were looking for players to ensure they have four teams and everyone can play every week.

The association has been trying to get a men’s competition back up and running again, for the first time since COVID. At this stage it was looking unlikely, but if they could get enough men interested they would be happy to run a mini-competition.

“If there’s any parents that want to have a go, we’re happy to have a mini competition,” she said.

“We want families to get involved.”

Wallace said they were hoping to look at other ways to get involved in the next few years.

“We want to get a wheelchair competition up and running,” she said.

“We’re fairly diverse and we don’t say no to anyone who wants to play.

“We like to have a hit and giggle and get everyone playing the game. We cater for all ages. We have children as young as four in the juniors and people still playing at 63.”

The women’s season is set to start this weekend.

Details:https://www.facebook.com/ sunbury.softball Tara Murray

Tuesday, 4 October, 2022 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 23

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