Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 1st August 2023

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Big screen spectacular

Three Sunbury College students will be appearing on the big screen with their performance in the 2023 Victorian State Schools Spectacular on September 9.

The annual Schools Spectacular extravaganza performance will take place at John Cain Arena for two shows at 1pm and 6.30pm.

Students Eloise, Isobel and Ruby were chosen as principal dancers, and Sunbury College principal Craig O’Bree said it is a great honour for them and the school.

“Performing arts is very important to our school and having role models within our school means other students … will be inspired to participate in the performing arts,” Mr O’Bree said. “It’s a great honour for our school that out of the 23 principal dance positions … three of those are from Sunbury College.

“There’s an extensive commitment by each of the students where they practise one to two times each weekend, which involves rehearsals and costumes fittings.

“It’s a great credit to the hard work and persistence of the three girls to be chosen. They are absolutely ecstatic.”

This year’s show includes more than 2000 students, and follows a group of hapless tourists as they traverse the globe in a cavalcade of circus mayhem.

Concern for Deep Creek

By Zoe Moffatt

Deep Creek Land Owners Group is concerned about Greater Western Water’s (GWW) planned discharge into Deep Creek.

GWW informed the Romsey community on July 14 that it would release class B recycled water into the creek from July 24, due to the Romsey Recycled Water Plant (RWP) high storage levels.

This announcement follows GWW’s discharge of recycled water into Deep Creek

in September 2022, without approval from the environmental regulator.

In response to questions from StarWeekly , Environment Protection Authority (EPA) northwest regional manager Dr Scott Pigdon said the EPA was aware of the discharge but did not approve it.

“The company lodged an emergency discharge application on July 21, 2023, but EPA did not approve the application as it did not meet the criteria for an emergency, as outlined in the Environment Protection Act

2017,” Dr Pigdon said.

Monegeetta resident Randall Gerkens said the land owners group, of more than 40 individuals, lacks confidence in GWW following last year’s discharges.

“It seems to us that the key reason the … discharges have occurred is the failure of GWW to undertake the works required to upgrade the Romsey Sewage Plant,” he said.

“[This includes] sufficient capacity for inflows from the growing towns of Romsey and Lancefield including the construction of

sufficient waste water storage regardless of seasonal weather conditions.

“GWW must put a stop on the discharges proposed … and instead take steps to transport the excess sewage waste to another treatment plant.”

Dr Pigdon said the discharge to Deep Creek has a low environmental risk, but the EPA will be conducting sampling of the water.

■ Continued: Page 10.

Sunbury College students

Isobel, Ruby and Eloise who will be performing in the Victorian State Schools Spectacular. (Damjan Janevski) 349375_02

Costs rise for Hume legal battles

By Harper Sercombe

A further $63,599 has been spent on ongoing Hume council legal fees and related costs, new figures reveal.

At a council meeting on Monday, July 24, a report was tabled breaking down total costs incurred between October 1, 2022 and June of this year.

The report revealed council has spent $63,599 on legal fees and related costs during this period, on top of $216,478 spent between November 2020 and September 30, 2022, taking total costs to $280,077.

Included in the costs are 23 applications for internal arbitration from November 2020 to July 2022, totalling $65,673, of which 22 matters were brought by Cr Trevor Dance and one by Cr Carly Moore against Cr Dance. Also included is a councillor conduct panel (CCP) hearing appointed by council to investigate whether Cr Dance had complied with the council’s internal arbitration process ($76,080).

The panel suspended Cr Dance for three months in April 2022, ruling that he had breachedcouncil’sinternalarbitrationprocess by failing to attend two arbitration hearings

in June 2021, in relation to his allegations of misconduct against Cr Jack Medcraft.

Cr Dance had cited his mental health for refusing to attend the hearings, but the CCP concluded Cr Dance “did not attend the hearings because he chose not to attend in circumstances where no medical evidence to support his non-attendance was provided by him”.

CrDanceservedtwoweeksofhissuspension before VCAT granted him a stay.

The CCP decision against Cr Dance was overturned by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) in

Group supports ‘yes’ vote on Voice

A Macedon Ranges group supporting the Voice to Parliament has recently formed and is showing its support for the campaign across the community.

Macedon Ranges for Yes joined the nationwide Yes23 movement in June to facilitate conversations about the proposal in local communities.

Group co-ordinator Michael Langley said it is important to get out and have discussions ahead of the vote, which is yet to have a set date.

“We all feel passionately about the importance of the Voice as being a small first

step in the reconciliation with the first peoples of this continent,” Mr Langley said.

“It is important to get out and have discussions to counteract the misinformation and disinformation that is being put out.”

MrLangleysaidtheVoiceisaquestionofthe heart and is about who we are as Australians.

“Are we going to continue doing what we’ve always done and ignore the expertise of first nations people and think we know best?” he said.

“Unless a Voice is enshrined in the Constitution then we will just continue to pay lip service … and the gap in living standards,

life expectancy, health and education will continue to grow.

“Your vote is important, your democratic responsibility is important, take the time to find out what it’s all about, [and] think about where the information you read or hear is coming from.”

Macedon Ranges for Yes will be working in local communities over the next few months at markets, street stalls, railway stations and information sessions.

Details: https://yes23.com.au/

December 2022, following an appeal by Cr Dance, which cost council $75,887.

VCAT president Justice Michelle Quigley found Cr Dance’s claims about his mental health should have been considered more seriously.

Council has appealed the VCAT decision to the Supreme Court. This has cost council $27,368 as of June 30, 2023.

Cr Dance has also made a complaint against an arbiter at the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission. Council has spent $35,069 as of June 30, 2023, to “insure” the arbiter.

Firearms and drugs seized

Police have charged two Sunbury residentsandseizedfirearms,cannabis and several allegedly stolen industrial machines and vehicles in Sunbury, following searches on July 27.

In an announcement on July 28, police said detectives from the Hume Crime Investigation Unit, Fawkner DivisionalResponseUnitandSunbury uniform conducted a series of search warrants at three different properties in Sunbury.

Detectives located an alleged cannabis crop house, as well as firearms and several alleged stolen industrial machines and vehicles.

A 34-year-old Sunbury man was charged with 17 offences, and is expected to appear at the Broadmeadows Magistrates Court on July 28.

The charges include prohibited person possess firearm, possess ammunition, possess prohibited weapon, theft of motor vehicle, handle stolen goods, deal in the proceeds of crimeandpossessdrugofdependence.

An 81-year-old Sunbury man was also arrested and released. He is expected to be charged on summons in relation to the alleged cannabis crop house.

A 28-year-old Airport West woman was also charged.

The items seized include, a double barrel shotgun, air rifle, black handgun, ammunition, firearm parts, alleged stolen tow truck, alleged stolen bobcat, alleged stolen cherry picker, alleged stolen quad bike, four allegedly stolen vehicles, three allegedly stolen trailers, heavy vehicle registration plates and VIN plates, and 48 cannabis plants.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Zoe Moffatt

Zoe Moffatt

Ardcloney Drive development approval causes division

Hume council has approved a permit for a dwelling in Ardcloney Drive, Sunbury, following community concern about neighbourhood character.

At the meeting on July 24, council approved the development of a double storey dwelling at therearofanexistingdwellingat11Ardcloney Drive.

Council received 10 objections to the development, and three public speakers spoke out against the development at the meeting.

One objector who spoke at the meeting said the proposal does not encourage or respect the character of the neighbourhood.

“Despite there being no heritage overlay, the site and surroundings have a strong, consistent and cohesive neighbourhood character and identity,” they said.

“Any new development would not fit the character of this designated, original, old Sunbury precinct.”

CouncillorTrevorDancedidnotsupportthe development and said council has to look after the interest of long term residents.

“To see 10 objections from a very small area shows you how these people love their neighbourhood and … we’ve got to have a duty of care,” Cr Dance said.

“I don’t know how they are going to fit this dwelling in there, it would look unsightly, totally unsightly, it would be a blob on the area.

“We need to send a message to the government that we, as a community, don’t want to see people losing the amenities they loveandliveforjusttoputanotherblockhouse on a property.”

Cr Karen Sherry disagreed and said she understood change can be upsetting, but resources would be wasted at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal if council did not approve the permit.

“Iamsupportingthisapplicationbecausewe actually need more housing in areas like this, and this enables young couples to get into the market,” Cr Sherry said.

“Because the site is so close, it’s within 550 metres of the town centre, a secondary school … transport and is also in a moderate change area.

“Neighbourhood character doesn’t mean maintaining the same thing, it means using materials and setbacks that compliment the area.”

Zoe Moffatt

Macedon Ranges for Yes group. (Damjan Janevski) 349049_01

Push on to ‘electrify everything’

By Harper Sercombe

Hume council is encouraging its residents to ‘electrify everything’ as part of a joint campaign between councils across Australia.

Mayor Joseph Haweil said council wants to emphasise that there are options for all types of households to use energy efficiently and contribute to a clean energy future.

“There are many benefits of all-electric homes, they are cheaper to run, they are healthierforyourfamilyandarebetterforour

environment,” Cr Haweil said.

The council will promote the initiative through social media, newsletters and community events. To help residents make the switch to electricity in a way that works for them, by also providing a checklist of actions they can take now or plan for the future.

“As a growth area council there is a real opportunity for us to inform new home buyers. Buying a fully electric home is the easiest way to go all-electric and future-proof your investment,” Cr Haweil said.

Star opening for oval

Sunbury residents have welcomed new sporting sporting fields in Kingsfield, with the help of two Western Bulldogs stars.

About 60 kids attended the park’s official opening on July 22, where AFL players Jamarra Ugle-Hagan and Jack Macrae held an Auskick clinic with the East Sunbury Football Club.

Sunbury estate developers Moremac Property Group helped to bring the site to life with an AFL oval with junior goalposts, and a full sized soccer field with goals and netting.

MoremacdevelopmentdirectorSteveButler saidtheywantedtomakeuseofthesignificant site before the future primary school is built.

“We’rereallyexcitedtobeaddingaresource that’s not only for Kingfield residents, but the wider Sunbury community to access,” Mr Butler said.

“The future primary school will no doubt be an enormous bonus to the area but given the significant period before work begins, we

really wanted to make use of the significant site.

“Adding the sporting facilities not only makes use of the site but solves the problem of having a large lot of land becoming an eyesore for the residents.”

The fields will be surrounded by open space, as well as a communal space in the north-eastern corner with bench seating.

It will be open to the public until construction begins on the school, which will be confirmed at a later date.

However, the Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL), a social justice organisation that works to prevent and alleviate poverty across Australia, said that it supports electric only homes but low income household requires more government assistance to do so.

“Getting off gas will reduce household energybillsandmakeanessentialcontribution to reducing Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions,” Damian Sullivan, BSL’s climate change and energy lead said.

“However, lower income households are likely to be the last ones left on the gas

network, paying more, unless further support is put in place.

“Renters face some of the biggest barriers. Even if they can afford to, they’re often not allowed by their landlords to switch to electric appliances, and many were afraid to even ask.

“Electrification and energy efficiency upgrades are essential because they lead to robust energy bill reductions, which last over time, unlike one-off payments.”

Details: https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/ Residents/Environment/Electrify-Everything

Sunbury stars in TAC ads

Sunbury will be catapulted onto Australians televisions after the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) was out and about filming its latest road safety campaigns last week.

A number of new campaigns were filmed from July 24 to July 29, at various locations including Fitzroy, Sunbury, Wildwood, Northcote, Altona, Williamstown and Melbourne CBD.

The filming was also for the extension of the ‘Always On’ enforcement campaign –‘Anywhere, Anytime, Anyone,’ which is in response to last year’s road trauma.

TAC chief executive Tracey Slatter said TAC looks forward to sharing the new campaigns with the community, which reminds people they will be caught if they take risks on the road.

“The TAC is committed to engaging with the Victorian community on important road safety issues,” Ms Slatter said.

“Welookforwardtosharingnewcampaigns

inthecomingmonths,targetingtherisk-taking behaviours that are taking lives on our roads. “Don’t drink or drug drive, obey speed limits, avoid distractions, and always wear a seatbelt – making good choices can be the reason everyone reaches their destination safely.”

The Sunbury community shared their speculations over the filming in Jackson’s Hill onFacebook,withsomeusersguessingsequels to recent blockbusters.

These guesses included Oppenheimer two, Barbie two, a new Neighbours episode, or a new Netflix documentary.

While the filming will not be appearing in a new blockbuster, it will go towards creating new TV commercials to target risk-taking behaviours such as speeding, distractions, drink and drug driving, and seatbelt compliance.

Zoe Moffatt

Zoe Moffatt

Western Bulldogs players Jamarra Ugle-Hagan and Jack Macrae at the opening. (Supplied)

Sunbury pool work blowout

By Zoe Moffatt

Works on the Sunbury 25-metre indoor pool have once again been extended, with Sunbury Aquatic and Leisure Centre (SALC) announcing it expects the project to take an extra four to six weeks.

In an announcement on Facebook on July 25, SALC said the project has taken longer than anticipated and it expects the project will now be completed from early to mid-October. Facebookuserssharedtheirfrustrationona subsequent post which announced changes to the hours of operation from July 25, to July 28.

One user said they were glad they cancelled their membership, and another questioned why members should have to drive to another centre.

“Yes we have the option to drive to Broadmeadows or Craigieburn but we shouldn’t have to,” they said.

“Whytravel35to40minutesoutofourway, why don’t we have half decent facilities here in Sunbury?”

A Hume council spokesperson said council is working closely with contractors to deliver the works, and there will not be an increase in costs due to the additional time frame.

Little red riding da hood

Tylden Primary School students are preparing for the annual school production, which has put a twist on the traditional Little Red Riding Hood fairytale.

Thewholeschoolproductionincludesabout 125 students and will be held at the Sacred Heart College theatre on August 4, at 7pm.

Performing arts specialist teacher Sue Redman said the students are getting excited and have been preparing for most of term two and term three.

“The year 6 children have speaking parts andtheyhavebeenpractisingforquiteawhile now… the other classes do a dance that is dispersed in the story line,” Ms Redman said.

“The production is based on the classic fairytale but it has a twist… they’re like a punky version of little red riding hood… they’re too cool.

“Little red riding hood refers to herself as the red hoodie and enjoys roading through

the woods with her little group of punsters.”

Ms Redman said the production includes the parents and gives children a chance to explore the performing arts.

“It just allows those children that don’t have the experience of going to dance and music to get that experience here at school,” she said.

“We also have some parents who have helped with costumes and some who are playing piano and guitar for songs as backing.

“We all come together at the end for the final dance and we invite the parents to come up and do it with us… It’s a lovely way to finish the concert.”

Zoe Moffatt

Tree day a buzzing success

Sunbury residents gathered on Sunday for a community planting day to boost available habitat for bees and butterflies.

The three and a half hour wildflower planting took place on July 30, at Sunbury Fields to celebrate National Tree Day and native grasslands.

The event was run by Hume council and included all the materials, education about indigenous cultural and ecological burns, as well as light refreshments.

Council urban biodiversity officer Melissa Doherty said council is working hard to manage and restore grassland reserves.

“Native grasslands have become so threatened with extinction, that every patch that can be protected and conserved is crucial,” Ms Doherty said.

“[Council is] weeding and doing ecological

burns, along with planting more species of indigenous plants.

“This National Tree Day event will create wildlife habitat for the local kangaroos, and native bees and butterflies.”

With native bees only able to fly about 350 metres, wildflowers need to be dotted over people’s gardens and across the neighbourhood.

These bees are attracted to blue flowers, while butterflies love daisies, and native grasses, wattles and native peas are great food plants for caterpillars.

Council’s community planting events are free, child-safe, and focus on revegetating open green spaces, and improving local biodiversity issues.

“Since our last update we have been working closely with project engineers and contractors to complete thorough site investigations, finalise engineering drawings and coordinate the delivery of the repair work,” the spokesperson said.

“This has taken longer than anticipated, with the closure period now having to be extended.

“Hume council will be supporting contractors to complete these works in a timely manner, including supporting them to work six days [per] week, where appropriate.”

Worksonthepoolincludepipereplacement,

cleaning and re-coating the pool shell, painting the walls, floor and lane markings, relining the pool gutters and wet deck, and resurfacing the pool concourse.

The spokesperson said SALC members will be compensated through credits, fee reductions and membership suspension options.

“All members continue to have the option of attending SPLASH Aqua Park and Leisure Centre or Broadmeadows Aquatic and Leisure Centreiftheywishtoaccessaquaticfacilities,” they said.

Details: https://rb.gy/dxntp

Zoe Moffatt

Residents planting wildflowers at Sunbury Fields to celebrate National Tree Day. (Supplied)

Tylden Primary School students practising for their production. (Supplied)

Planning for Romsey’s future

By Zoe Moffatt

The draft Romsey Structure Plan was endorsed by Macedon Ranges council at its meeting on July 26, with questions raised about the plans effectiveness.

The plan seeks to replace Romsey’s current development plan, and focuses on determining the settlement boundary, adding vibrancy to the town centre and protecting the town’s character.

Councillor Geoff Neil voted for the motion and said while he believes the plan

has flaws, it is important that it is released for community consultation.

“Like many of us in the chamber I too have been contacted by at least 20 residents [and] … most have expressed concern,” Cr Neil said.

“Thedocumenthasflaws,Iacknowledgethat, I have found a few myself but … I’m very happy that we are now allowing the other 5000-plus residents and others to … make comments.”

Cr Rob Guthrie spoke against the plan and said last time he was on council, development plans for Gisborne and Romsey were created but none of it has happened.

“My concern with this is that again, we’re putting something out to the community, we’ve got no plans,” Cr Guthrie.

“Last time I was on council we … [outlined] development plans for Gisborne and Romsey and a lot of infrastructure was identified [that] was needed before the town was to grow.

“From what I can see none of that has happened.

“My concern [is] we’ve built those false expectations in the past and nothing has happened and now we’re talking about rezoning more land for residential purposes

Students make it happen on Friday

Gisborne Montessori School is helping students to grow their ideas and spark innovation through its weekly clubs program.

The program called ‘Make it Happen Friday’ kicked off on July 21, with about 90 kids attending the session aimed at encouraging connection and student entrepreneurship.

The school’s executive director Peter Hutton said this first session was a success and the program will help to boost student empowerment, especially following years of virtual learning due to COVID-19.

“Theprogramisverymuchaboutsupporting the students to follow their passions … one of the areas we are wanting to encourage is student entrepreneurship,” Mr Hutton said.

“Kids have a capacity to make a difference in the community and we want to support them to do that.

“Across the country in a post COVID world [schools] are having problems with attendance … so we need to make it more enjoyable and more relevant.

“We do our fair share of literacy and numerous but there has to be more spice than that for students to come to school everyday.”

Mr Hutton said some of the club’s activities are proposed by staff and some by the kids, and the school has $15,000 set aside to help students create their own business or not-for-profit.

“We have $10,000, from the school’s own fund…forstudentstostarttheirownbusiness … and $5000 for students to start their own social enterprise like a not-for-profit, that’s not repayable,” he said.

“That’s how much we believe in it … it’s just about supporting young people to follow their passion.

“One student [has started] making his own dog treats and sells them at school, which he has been doing for a few weeks.”

Mr Hutton said some of the other clubs include a Dungeons and Dragons club, a craft club, and a bike repair club, where students repair old bikes and they teach each other to ride the BMX track.

“The only reason kids want to be at school is their friends and sometimes sports … we need to have more than that.”

Zoe Moffatt

without the infrastructure to support it.”

Deputy mayor Jennifer Anderson said she understands Cr Guthrie’s perspective but council has limited resources.

“Unfortunately there are plenty of things in our planning scheme that haven’t come to fruition but we only have limited resources,” Cr Anderson said.

“[Tonight] is not … for us to tell you all the things we may have concerns on, because we need to hear from you.”

The draft plan will go out for community consultation for six weeks.

Have a say on Stanley Park

Macedon Ranges council is seeking feedback on the future of Stanley Park in Mount Macedon, including its ongoing management and infrastructure needs. The six-hectare forest, grassland and passive recreation park is located just off Mount Macedon Road at 15 Salisbury Road, and is co-managed by council and a Community Asset Committee (CAC).

Council has drafted an updated environmental management plan in collaboration with the CAC, drawing from ecological assessments and CAC insights, and is available for public comment unto August 15.

Council’s acting director planning and environment Rob Ball encouraged residents to read the proposed plan and give their feedback.

“This initial stage provides the community with an opportunity to share what they love about Stanley Park, and how they spend their time there,” Mr Ball said.

“This will provide guidance for both council and the CAC on community values regarding this much-loved reserve.”

Council said the park has been used by residents and visitors for walking, picnicking and nature study for more than a century, and the feedback sought is the first of a two-stage consultation process.

Stanley Park bushland and grassland areas have been the focus of weed management and revegetation projects for decades, with volunteers contributing significantly to the flora and fauna values.

Councilsaidtheplanprovidesupdated information on the conservation values of the park, such as the observation of a pair of threatened gang-gang cockatoos inspecting a nest hollow.

Details: https://rb.gy/094ut

Macedon Ranges is driving towards zero road deaths

Macedon Ranges council is driving towards its aim of zero road deaths and serious injuries through its draft mobility and road safety strategy.

Council approved the draft plan to be released for four weeks of community consultation at its meeting on July 26.

The draft mobility and road safety strategy 2023-32 is based on the four safe system key principles of safe roads, speeds, people and vehicles.

Thestrategyalsorecognisestheimportance of supporting active transport, working with road safety partners and the community,

while considering wildlife safety.

Councillor Janet Pearce said the strategy is very important and involves more than just motor vehicles.

“[The strategy] has taken a while and that’s because it is so broad because this involved so much,” Cr Pearce said.

“It is a mobility and road safety strategy and we know pedestrian, cycling, all the forms of mobility that are coming in, and those to come, are so important.

“The strategy, the action plan, its connecting to all of our council, our council plan, our council prioritise, and I think the

themes are very concise.”

Cr Mark Ridgeway echoed Cr Pearce’s comments and said he is very excited about the strategy, which was formulated with the input of more than 500 community responses.

“I think it will help address a lot of concerns that have been raised with me in recent times, over the state of our roads and our footpaths,” Cr Ridgeway said.

“[We now have] bicycles, we’ve got mobility scooters … we’ve got all sorts of things and ways and means of people trying to get around our townships

“We also have to deal with kangaroos, with wombats, with ducks, with geese on our roads.

“All of these are concerns and all of these need to be taken into account with the design and layout of our towns.”

This strategy follows 2021 community consultation and the main issues identified, including; road conditions, lack of footpaths, pedestrian crossings, and cycling facilities, safety of walking and cycling, and concerns for wildlife safety.

Zoe Moffatt

Gisborne Montessori student Cooper makes and sells dog treats using his own dehydrator. (Supplied)

Bridge is taking shape

Jacksons Creek bridge progress has continued with the bridge’s final concrete pour on July 25. MajorRoadProjectsVictoriaisdeliveringthe bridge as part of the Sunbury Road Upgrade, which is expected to be complete by 2025.

Senior project manager Alec Say said the upgrade will increase reliability for all road users.

“Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians have been incredibly patient while we’ve built the first sections of the new bridge over the Jacksons Creek,” Mr Say said. “Now it’s done we can get on with the remaining construction for this much-needed crossing.

“The new two-lane bridge will double capacity over the Jacksons Creek in tandem with the existing bridge, to provide a smoother and more reliable journey for all road users.”

Acrossfivedays,250cubicmetresofconcrete wereplaced,andhundredsofboredpilesaswell

as concrete piers, headstocks and beams were installed to form the base for the new deck.

Construction of on-structure barriers along the sides of the new bridge has already commenced, to provide a safer environment for all road users.

Pedestrian fencing will be installed, and the outerendsofthebridgeremainclosedtopublic access while the remaining works are carried out.

Three layers of asphalt will be laid on either side of the bridge to a depth of 220 millimetres, as well as a single final layer of wearing course asphalt to a depth of 40 millimetres.

The new Jacksons Creek Bridge is on track to be completed by the end of 2023, and will double capacity and reduce delays faced by drivers crossing Jacksons Creek.

Zoe Moffatt

Briefs

Have your say

Sunbury residents are invited to vote on the theme of a new mural at the Jacksons Creek bridge, following artist expressions of interest calls from Major Road Projects Victoria. The local search is underway to find a Sunbury-based artist or artist team to create artwork for the retaining wall alongside the bridge that will reflect Sunbury’s significance to the community. Voting will close Saturday, August 5, with a final decision on the themes to be made later in the month. Details: https://rb.gy/znfbt

Tax Help

Hume council is offering free and confidential tax help to residents who earned less than $60,000 in the last financial year to complete and lodge their tax returns. Accredited tax help volunteers will help residents lodge their tax returns online and can also help with lodge amendments and claiming a refund of franking credits. Details: taxhelp@hume.vic.gov.au

Lost phone?

Riddells Creek residents who have recently lost their phone are encouraged to contact the police station, following mobile phones being handed in. Contact Senior Constable Steve Johnson on 5428 6171.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Winslow senior project engineer Tony Kramberger, Sunbury MP Josh Bull and Major Road Projects Victoria program director Dipal Sorathia inspect progress on the new Jacksons Creek bridge on July 25. (Supplied)

Woodend scores tourism bronze

By Zoe Moffatt

Woodend has taken out third place at this year’s Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards for top small tourism town.

The winners were revealed at a presentation onWednesday,July26,withSorrentowinning first place and Heathcote taking silver.

Macedon Ranges council mayor Annette Death said Woodend has so much to offer visitors and residents alike.

“It is fantastic to see the township of Woodend in the spotlight once again through this award, but not surprising given it ticks all

of the category’s boxes,” Cr Death said.

“Combine everything the town has to offer from a tourism perspective with award-winning wineries, eateries, boutique shops and convenient transport options.

“Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote for Woodend in the awards.”

Daylesford Macedon Tourism chief executiveSteveWroesaidthirdplaceisagreat achievement and shows the town is a great place to visit as well as live.

“It’s really exciting and it goes to show that there’s so much happening there at the moment,” Mr Wroe said.

Cub trio get healthy tick

Werribee Open Range Zoo’s adorable lion cub trio has undergone their first vet checks to reveal two males and one female.

The six-week old cubs received their first feline specific vaccinations, were weighed, microchipped and had their eyes and teeth checked.

WerribeeOpenRangeZooAfricanrivertrail

keeper Danielle Ridgway said it was exciting to learn the cubs’ sexes and to see them pass their health assessments with flying colours.

“This is the first time we’ve been able to get an up-close look at the cubs because their experienced mother, Nilo [pronounced: Nee-lo], has been doing such a great job at raising them,” Ms Ridgway said.

“The cubs were calm inside their den during the health checks.

“At birth, the cubs weighed about one-and-a-half kilograms, but they have now

MY PLACE

grown more than five times in size to around eight kilos.”

Ms Ridgway said the cubs are increasingly inquisitive as they continue to grow.

“They have mastered the art of walking and now that they are on their feet, there is no stopping them,” Ms Ridgway said.

“They also love investigating tree branches and logs that keepers are introducing to their den.”

The cubs will remain in a private area of their Werribee Open Range Zoo home, away frompublicview,forthenextfewweeksasthey continue to grow. They are being gradually introducedtotherestofthelionpride,asawild lioness does to protect and care for her cubs while they are unable to defend themselves.

Thelioncubswillbenamedthroughavoting competition for Zoos Victoria members and donors.

“There’s gin, wine bars opening up and it’s got a really exciting energy at the moment … it was awarded the most livable town in regional Victoria [earlier in the year].

“Ithinkit’sworthacknowledgingtheefforts from Macedon Ranges council, Tourism Macedon Ranges, [and] the ongoing support from Visit Victoria to promote the region.”

Mr Wroe said Woodend is also a good launching pad for the other tourism in the region.

“We often use Woodend as the base to exploresomeoftheothertourismassetsinthe region, such as wineries and Hanging Rock,”

he said.

“We love going to Kuzu the restaurant, and mykidslovetheicecreamshopthere….that’s a real highlight.”

This award comes a year after Mount Macedon won gold in the Victorian Top Tiny Tourism Town category for 2022, followed by bronze at the national awards.

The top small tourism town category celebrates towns with 1500 to 5000 people that show commitment to tourism, offer excellent visitor experience, and show strong collaboration with tourism operators, local businesses and the community.

Kyneton local and Rotary club president Hartley Uebergang tells Zoe Moffatt about his connection to the area and community

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?

Now I am retired I have some spare time that is spent taking in the scenery around central Victoria, and reading. When I moved to Kyneton I had to hire a three ton truck to move my library, so I have books by the dozen. I find it a wonderful pastime and good for the soul.

What’s your connection to Kyneton?

I came to Kyneton from Melbourne after working in the automotive industry for 30 yearsasIfeltIneededsomefreshair.Myageing motheralsolivedinKyneton,andafterlooking after myself, it was time I returned the favour.

What do you like about where you live?

Kynetonhaslotstooffer,IamafoodiesoIhave fitted in well. I also believe Kyneton is a great place to enjoy some pretty amazing coffee.

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

I believe Kyneton should take more advantage of the local artists, whether they be potters, painters or sculptors and whatever else may be out there. They could all combine for a huge weekend or art, which is good for art, good for Kyneton and good for central Victoria.

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

The thing that will come as a surprise to many is the fact that I love being a 14-year-old again and playing trains. Yes you read right. I love playing with my model railway. I have a layout based on the Victorian Railway end of steam era.

My favourite is the Mathew Flinders towing the World famous Spirit of Progress. This train was a revolution in its day. Again all good for the soul.

You have recently become the president of Kyneton Rotary, do you want to tell us a bit about that?

Yes there is still time to spare and that’s where rotary fits in. I have been elected as president of the Kyneton Rotary Club for the coming year.

So not a lot of reading or playing trains.

I am looking forward to working with the club in its many different avenues. We are partnering with a rotary club in Cambodia to assist in educating underprivileged students. The program teaches sanitation, water quantity, the ability to earn an income as well as secondary and

tertiary education. A very important aspect to the program is to assist in the raising up of young women. I am delighted to be part of this program.

The club will also continue its partnership with the Kyneton Scouts and various secondary school programs.

Vet staff check one of the lion cub trio. (Supplied)

Experience the benefits of the Braemar College village

The saying “It takes a village to raise a child”, originating from various African cultures, emphasises the significance of a community that comes together to provide a nurturing and safe environment for children to grow and develop positively. In today’s society, this proverb has never been more relevant, especially in a post-pandemic world.

Braemar College prioritises the growth and wellbeing of its students, both inside and outside the classroom. Its programs seek to challenge and inspire each student, promoting personal excellence. Teaching students to think independently and with an open mind will enable them to become lifelong learners who can make meaningful contributions to their local and global communities.

The middle school program encourages students to contribute to making our planet a better place. Students participate in vibrant, multi-year, house-based activities that provide them with knowledge and practical experience in multiple settings.

Being part of a college that enrols students ranging from 10 to 18 years of age allows students to embrace even larger and more complex learning projects.

The senior school students understand that their role modelling is important in shaping the next generation of senior school learners. Their leadership of classroom engagement, focussed learning, social justice and playing a part in a bigger picture of community membership is vital.

To add to these experiences, the broader college, most noticeably Old Collegians, continue to be engaged, bringing a wealth of life experience and a worldly perspective to student learning.

During a student’s journey, Braemar College offers multiple opportunities for

them to collaborate and work together to solve complex problems through its academic offerings, outdoor activities, experiential

education, and environmental initiatives. The unique campuses, nestled in natural surroundings,alongwithBraemar’sinterstate

and overseas experiences, shape the “village” at Braemar College and prepare students for the next stage of their personal growth.

Spaces available from Years 5-12

Braemar College prioritises the health and wellbeing of its students. (Supplied)

Council overhauls skate policy

By Zoe Moffatt

Macedon Ranges council plans to move away from single centralised skate and BMX facilities through its draft strategy.

Council voted to approve the draft skate and BMX strategy’s release for community consultation at its meeting on July 26.

There are currently six skate parks and four BMX tracks throughout the Macedon Ranges, and the strategy recommends providing district facilities in select townships to service population clusters.

Thestrategyproposesafacilityineachmajor township as the most equitable approach, with

the size of these facilities responding to each township’s current and forecast populations.

Councillor Dominic Bonanno said these spaces are important for the growth of young

people in the shire, and he encourages them to share their feedback on the strategy.

“I know quite a few young people who are very excited and keen to see progression on some of the items in the strategy,” Cr Bonanno said.

“We know and acknowledge how important it is for young people to have their own space to learn and grow in our community.

“Skate parks provide that space for our youth … [we] encourage feedback from the kids on this strategy and in particular to comment on the suggested new location in Gisborne.”

CrRobGuthriesaidhedidnotwanttobuild

‘Brutal’ painting an art prize finalist

A Kyneton local has been named as a finalist for the 2023 National Capital Art Prize for his painting on human nature.

Artist Daniel Butterworth was one of 93 finalists chosen from more than 800 impressive and high quality entries from across Australia.

Mr Butterworth said he was surprised to receive the news, and that while his painting was brutal it shared an important message.

“The artwork is a figure of a head where it’s being cut open, it’s quite brutal,” he said.

“The reason I painted this was for the contrast of colours … that is what attracted me to painting this series.

“The whole thing of human nature is all about how we keep hurting ourselves and hurting the planet but we don’t learn … This whole image is about not learning.

“I think it’s in our nature to hurt, so this was a big point about this image.”

Mr Butterworth said he started painting after a trip to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) sparked an interest in art.

“I remember when I was about eight years old going to the NGV and seeing a portrait of Rembrandt and thinking this is amazing, this is for me.

“From then on I was drawing and painting … and now I’ll paint two or three paintings a day.”

The judging panel for the competition will announce the three category winners on September 14, before the four week public exhibition in Canberra.

Public voting for an online People’s Choice Award is also open until September 11.

Details: https://rb.gy/rc4hm

Zoe Moffatt

expectations and reminded residents that the strategy has a 16-year timeframe.

“By putting this out for consultation I don’t want people getting the misconception that we’re going to be building something tomorrow,” Cr Guthrie said.

“We need to have this strategy so we can go to other levels of government and seek external grant funding.

“If you look at the program over the 16 years … it’s almost half a million dollars a year over the life of the program.

“Certainly we haven’t got the capacity to do that, but that’s why the strategy is so important, [it] needs community support.”

Concern for Deep Creek

■ From page 1.

“The level of treatment and current goodflowsinDeepCreekmeanthatthe risk to the environment is considered low,” he said.

“EPA takes any discharge outside licence conditions seriously and will be conducting sampling along Deep Creek [this] week to confirm the quality of water being released.

“EPA will then take appropriate action in line with its Compliance and Enforcement Policy.”

Mr Gerkens said he has found GWW’s communication poor.

In a letter sent to Mr Gerkens, GWW saidthereleasewasrequiredbecausethe Romsey RWP storage levels exceeded 90percentfull“duetoaverywetspring in 2022 and reduced irrigation season“.

“Without action, we expect the plant will exceed the safe operating limit by the week commencing August 7, 2023,” GWW said. “[GWW] is left with no other option than to plan for an emergency controlled release … daily releases will be required through to at least October 2023.”

In response to questions from the StarWeekly,aGWWspokespersonsaid it takes the health of the creek seriously.

“We take the health of the creek, environment and community seriously and are rigorously treating and testing the water being released accordingly,” the spokesperson said. “We informed the Romsey community, downstream landholders and the EPA of our need to release recycled water on July 14.

“We uploaded an announcement on our website and directly called the EPA and landholders downstream of the plant [and] updated our announcement on July 25.

“The water we release is class B quality as per EPA guidelines.”

More open space for Gisborne with moves to acquire land

Gisborne Fields Park is set to expand with council to begin the process to acquire 2464 square metres of additional land.

Macedon Ranges council approved the commencement of the statutory process to acquire 51 Coop Drive in Gisborne, at its meeting on July 26.

This site, along with 75 Willowbank Road, are the largest undeveloped sites remaining in the residential growth area between Willowbank and Brooking roads in Gisborne.

Council said the future development of these sites is critical to resolving a connected

road network and providing open space in the area.

Councillor Dominic Bonanno said the acquisition is important to increase the open space available to the community.

“We all value open space here in the Macedon Ranges, it’s one of the many reasons why people choose to live here, including ourselves,” Cr Bonanno said.

“That’s why the acquisition of land such as 51 Coop Drive in Gisborne is so important, so we continue to leave the same legacy for our children and grandchildren.”

Under council’s planning scheme, developers must provide a five per cent open space contribution, however, council has sought an extra four per cent for a reserve area of 5439 square metres.

Deputy mayor Jennifer Anderson said it is great the community is getting more than five per cent open space and the acquisition will be worthwhile.

“The reason for this acquisition is, five per cent open space may sound good, but for a growing population … five per cent of open space will only get you so much,” she said.

“Open spaces are really valuable in our community and the more people we’re putting in, the more I think it’s valued, and the important it is that we have it.

“I think it’s a really great outcome and I’m really looking forward to that area being developed for the use of that particular community.”

Residents will be able to speak on the matter at a delegated committee meeting on September 20.

Zoe Moffatt

Artist Daniel Butterworth with his painting on human nature. (Supplied)

‘‘ We know ... how important it is for young people to have their own space to learn and grow in our community ’’

- Dominic Bonanno

Comm games disappointment

By Tara Murray

Athletes from Melbourne’s north-west are among those who will suffer from the cancelling of the Commonwealth Games in Victoria.

Athletes,coachesandfanswereamongthose shocked on Tuesday, when the news broke that the 2026 Games wouldn’t go ahead in regional Victoria.

For many athletes it would have been the biggest opportunity to race or compete in their home country.

Celeste Mucci is one athlete who was targeting the games. Mucci, who is part of Williamstown Athletics Club, has competed at two Games.

Her coach Darren Clark said she was disappointed like a lot of other athletes.

“Celeste has competed at two Games,” he said. “In 2018 at the Gold Coast and then at Birmingham last year.

“The Gold Coast was her first Australian senior team. Both had an amazing atmosphere and are some of the highlights of her career.

“She is disappointed that Victoria won’t be hosting them in 2026.”

Mucci finished fourth in the heptathlon in 2018, before making the finals in the 100 metre hurdles and 4 x 100 metre relay in 2022.

Clark said while World Championships are bigger events overall, which Mucci has also attended, the Commonwealth Games has been the highest level of competition she’s competed in at home.

Mucci wasn’t the only athlete of Clark’s who

was targeting the Commonwealth Games. Clark works at Maribyrnong Sports Academy and said a number of those athletes were also left disappointed by the news.

“We had four alumni compete at Birmingham,” he said. “There was a lot of

excitement at school and a lot of senior athletes that would have been targeting the Games in Victoria.

“I’ve spoken to a few who were disappointed and a bit unsure whether it would go ahead at all.”

The impact of the gGames not being at home goes deeper than on the track or in the pool.

Clark, like fellow Williamstown coach Robbie Spencer, said the cancelling of the Games could cost athletes much needed sponsorship.

“Athletics is at the forefront,” Spencer said. “Big games like this make it at the forefront and they’re talked about and on everyone’s mind.

“Doing really well at a local event helps gain sponsorships. It’s hard at times to get sponsorship when you’re always overseas.”

Western Athletics Peter Cashin said he understands why the Games were cancelled, but said it was disappointing.

Cashin said there would have been several athletes looking at the Games, including his daughter Amy Cashin, who competed at the 2022 Games.

“The sport of track and field needs that level of competition,” he said.

“Most would be a bit surprised and a bit disappointed.”

Cashin said the 2006 Games opened Amy’s eyes to sport as she was part of the opening ceremony and attended as a spectator.

He said it had a real impact on her and he thinks helped build her love for the spots.

Cashin said sporting organisations like athletics and little athletes clubs also benefited from the Games, with an influx of new members following big events.

Cashin said he was hoping that the Games would go ahead to give the athletes the chance to compete.

‘‘ There was a lot of excitement at school and a lot of senior athletes that would have been targeting the Games in Victoria ’’

- Darren Clark

Celeste Mucci. (Athletics Australia)

Aiport concern over apartments

By Harper Sercombe

Hume council has adopted plans for the development of 98 serviced apartments despite airport concerns.

At a meeting on Monday, July 24, council signalled its intent to grant a permit for the development which will be located at 4-6 Trade Park Drive, Tullamarine.

However, the proposed 15-storey building has raised eyebrows from Essendon Fields Airport as it says it impedes on its Obstacle Limitation Surface (OLS).

An OLS is the height at which an airport must be protected from obstacles.

Essendon Fields planning manager Brad Evans said the building would intrude 32.8 metres into the airport’s OLS.

“This application before council poses an unacceptable risk to our operations both immediately for emergency services … and

most importantly into the future,” he said.

“[It’s] a poor response to the [Hume] planning scheme and the planning laws that you have to work with.

“Should council determine to grant a permit we would have no decision to be left [with] than to pursue an appeal before the tribunal.”

Although aviation veteran and former manager of airport infrastructure and standards at Essendon airport Dave Race saidthebuildingposesnorisktotheairport’s operations.

“Where the serviced apartments have been proposed is in a dead corner of Essendon

Tempting tastes at Tamil fundraiser

Macedon Ranges Rural Australians for Refugees (MRRAR) is holding its second Tamil feast of the year on August 19, to raise money for refugees within the community.

The event will be held in New Gisborne at 5.30pm, following the success of the first event which was held in Woodend in May.

MRRAR volunteer Ruth Mulkearns said they moved the event to New Gisborne and added more tickets so more people could attend.

“[The first event] sold out in a week and the people who attended very much enjoyed it,” Ms Mulkearns said.

“WehadpeoplethatcamefromCastlemaine and Melbourne.

“We’ve increased the available seats…last time we had 50 seats, this time we’re having 70 … and tickets are available [to purchase] on the fourth of August.”

Ms Mulkearns said the money raised will go to food, rent assistance and legal assistance for refugees.

“The money that we raise goes to two organisations in Melbourne who have a direct link with refugees,” she said.

“The chef is an asylum seeker himself from Sri Lanka who escaped persecution and sought asylum in Australia.

“We’re excited to be able to offer the event because the first one was so successful and hopefully more people can attend and enjoy this lovely meal.

Tickets for the event cost $35 per adult, $15 per primary school child and $90 per family of four. Alcohol is BYO, with corkage by donation.

Details: https://rb.gy/xcx5a

Zoe Moffatt

Chef Niro from Tuka Tuka Kothu Roti Ma. (Supplied)

airport’s air space,” Mr Race said.

“It will never interfere with instrument approach or emergency services aircraft operating in and out of Essendon airport.”

Mr Race said the hotel that neighbours the proposed site also impedes the airport’s OLS and poses no threats.

The development is said to contribute around 40 jobs including a host of local jobs in administration, housekeeping, concierge and management.

A reduction in the current 857 space car park will take place to allow for the apartments, however, each apartment will have a guaranteed car space.

Timor visit approved for councillors

Hume council has approved the travel costsoftwocouncillorstoTimor-Leste later this year.

Mayor Joseph Haweil and councillor Naim Kurt are intending on travelling to the south-east Asian country in October as part of the ‘Friends of Adieu’ program.

The travel has been approved at the cost of a maximum of $5000 per councillor, which includes travel, accommodation and expenses.

At a council meeting on Monday, July 24, Cr Karen Sherry, who went on the same trip in 2019, said it is an important trip.

“The exchange and the learnings are numerous and it really does inject goodwill into that province, which is still establishing its governance,” she said.

However, Cr Trevor Dance said he “can’t really see any benefits … to the wider community.”

“I would have liked to [have] gone as well but I’d be using my own money to save ratepayers,” he said.

Cr Jack Medcraft disagreed with Cr Dance as he said those in Timor-Leste need assistance from people who are better off than what they are.

Harper Sercombe

Trains tested for the first time in the new Metro Tunnel

The first test trains have entered the Metro Tunnel,oneineachofthetwinnine-kilometre tunnels were driven through the eastern entrance of the Metro Tunnel at South Yarra, stopping at Anzac Station.

The project will connect the Sunbury and Cranbourne/Pakenham lines via a new tunnel under the city, creating an end-to-end rail line from the north-west to the south-east.

DesignedtofreeupspaceintheCityLoopto runmoretrainsmoreoftentogrowingsuburbs like Werribee, Sunbury and Frankston.

This marks the start of the Metro Tunnel’s next major testing phase inside the new tunnels and stations, which will stretch well into 2024.

Premier Daniel Andrews said this the biggest milestone to date.

“Our Metro Tunnel will change the way Victorians travel across our city, our suburbs andourstate,slashingtraveltimesandcreating a turn-up-and-go network for Melbourne,” he said.

Overthecomingmonths,theseven-carriage trains will run back-and-forth deep under the CBD and Yarra River, testing complex equipment and systems to ensure they are working seamlessly and safely.

Fundamentals – such as lining the trains up with the platforms – will be tested first, before the team gradually increases the complexity, from one train at low speed using minimal

power through to multiple trains at greater speeds.

Everything from lifts, escalators, security systems,communications,lighting,plumbing, power and the Victorian-first platform screen doors will all be rigorously tested to ensure all systems are working together with Melbourne’s new fleet of bigger, better High Capacity Metro Trains.

Transport and Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said, “We thank the thousands of Victorians who built the tunnels, laid the track and made it possible for us to get on with the critical testing phase so we can open a year ahead of schedule – delivering more trains more often for Melbourne’s growing suburbs.”

The first test trains have entered the Metro Tunnel.

‘‘ It will never interfere with instrument approach or emergency services aircraft ’’

- Dave Race

Keeping an eye on tradie health

August marks Tradies National Health Month (TNHM), an initiative run by the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) to raise awareness about the importance of tradies’ health and wellbeing. Hannah Hammoud spoke with advocates who are calling on labourers and tradespeople to be vigilant in looking after their eyes and ears on the job to avoid long term, often preventable, and in some cases irreversible, damage to their eyesight and hearing.

Optometrist Michael Angerame said each year TNHM works as a reminder for tradespeople to protect themselves from injury on the job. He said when it comes to eye and ear protection, prevention is always better than cure.

“Optometrists see a lot of tradies present that tend to have a foreign body in their eyes, either they’ve been grinding metal or using equipment without the correct safety protection for their eyes. They either have dust, metal, dirt or grit in their eyes that we have to remove,” he said.

“Optometrists are trained and we are able to remove these foreign bodies from the eye, butinsomecaseswhenwedoremoveitthere’s still impact on the vision that can potentially be long-term depending on the extent of the injury.

“While in most cases it’s just a matter of easily removing the object from the eye and prescribing some eye drops for the eye to heal, in some cases our patients aren’t as lucky and depending on the depth of the object in the eyeorthetypeofobjectitcanleadtoinfection or a number of complications to their vision.”

In April, research from the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital revealed a concerning increase in men presenting to the emergency department with work-related eye trauma, recording a 41 per cent growth over the past five years.

Mr Angerame said this data indicates a concerningdeclineofawarenessinpreventing eye related accidents.

“These statistics show that the public is not adhering to safety procedures as much as we would like them to,” he said.

Research by Specsavers echoes these findings, revealing that younger tradies aged 18-34 are already reporting concerns over worksite damage, with 37 per cent of tradies in that age bracket incurring a workplace eye injury that required medical attention.

Yaraville electrician Matthew Garbett, 31, said that an incident he had as an apprentice where hot steel landed into his eye forced him to take his health and safety more seriously.

“I had my safety goggles on but I wasn’t wearing them correctly, they weren’t sitting properly on my face. Back then we weren’t really trained on how to wear protective equipment and people didn’t really know how to wear them right,” he said.

“Hot steel landed into my eye on the jobsite and I had to go to the eye and ear hospital to get it scratched out. There was no lasting damage but the process was painful.”

Mr Garbett said it is more often younger tradies who underestimate the importance of protective equipment.

“As you get older you take your health a bit more seriously in every aspect… you realise that you’ve only got one pair of eyes,” he said.

Mr Garbett has been an electrician for 10 years and is currently working on the Melbourne Metro Tunnel Project. He said the culture on job sites has changed and safety breaches are now strictly policed.

“If you aren’t wearing the correct safety equipment you can get reinducted and taken off site,” he said.

“On these bigger projects, you go through a series of inductions where they show you

how to wear the equipment properly. So even ifpeopledon’ttakeitseriouslytheygetusedto wearing the equipment every time they’re on site because they have to.”

Data from the 2021 census lists technicians and trades workers as the third largest occupation sector in Victoria employing more than 399,000 Victorians.

As a working optometrist, Mr Angerame said he tends to see a higher number of

incidents occurring in regional areas.

Mr Angerame said professions such as tradesthatareregularlyexposedtorisks,need to keep in mind the importance of regular eye and ear tests. Recommending people to get their eyes and ears tested every two years, or every year if they are over the age of 65.

Other top tips include:

1/ Wear hearing protection when exposed to loud noise, such as earplugs, earmuffs or both.

2/ Wear safety goggles to protect from debris and small bits of metal, dust, dirt or grit from getting into the eye. These can cause the eyes to water, cause redness, pain, and a scratchy sensation on the eye. This type of irritationcancausevisiontobecomeblurryor sensitive to light and can even cause damage to the cornea.

3/ Wear full coverage sunglasses when working outside to protect from direct sunlight, as well as to protect from the reflective glare from machinery, buildings or the sidewalk.

4/ Reduce the number of different noises at any one time, such as simultaneous conversations, working power tools, as well as a loud radio which can place undue strain on the ears.

5/ Testthenoiseoftheworkingenvironment by using the ‘one metre rule’. If you need to raise your voice to talk to someone about one metre away, you can assume the sound level is likely to be hazardous to hearing.

National spokesperson for this year’s TNHM campaign, APA occupational health physiotherapist Lucia Tsui said the message of early intervention needs to be driven home, as it is key to stopping small issues from morphing into more serious conditions.

“Tradies put their bodies through a lot, and we want to encourage tradies to do what they can as early as possible in their career to promote longevity and keep their bodies healthy as they age,” she said.

“The pension age rose to 67 for tradies last month, which means tradies need to keep their body as healthy as possible – for longer than ever. A tradie’s body is their biggest asset, so taking care of it now will keep them healthier long into the future.”

Electrician Matthew Garbett takes his health seriously on the job site. (Supplied)

‘‘ A tradie’s body is their biggest asset, so taking care of it now will keep them healthier long into the future ’’ - Lucia Tsui

Optometrist Michael Angerame says when it comes to eye and ear protection, prevention is better than cure. (Supplied)

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

35 years ago

August 2, 1988

A public appeal has been opened to raise $5,000 to complete the funds needed for the buy-back of the beautiful bushland property, Mount Tenneriffe in the MacedonRangesnorthofRiddellsCreek.

30 years ago

August 3, 1993

People throughout the Macedon Ranges will be urged to sign a community petition to Energy and Minerals Minister Jim Plowman opposing an application for a (minerals) exploration licence at the historic Bolobek property on Mount MacedonRoad.

20 years ago

July 29, 2003

Macedon Ranges Council is sending a clear message to property developers: its pro-developmentdaysareover.

10 years ago

July 30, 2013

Sunbury’s budding stars Caitlin ‘Lil C’ and Harry ‘Mo D’ hope one day to fill the big shoes of famous performers Bonnie AndersonandTimomatic.

YOURNEWCAREER ...startshere

PRINT AND PRINT AND PRINT AND ONLINE SALES ONLINE SALES ONLINE SALES

EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED?

Macedon Ranges pickleball

Pickleball is coming to the Macedon Ranges with two come and try sessions on Saturday, August 19, at 2pm to 4pm and Monday, August 21, at 6.30pm to 8pm. The sessions will be held at the Tony Clarke Stadium in Waterfalls Road, Macedon, and all the equipment will be supplied.

■ David Aitke,n 0419 589 425 or Ian Strachan, 0402 401 397

Amateur Radio Club

The Macedon Ranges Amateur Radio Club meets on the third Saturday of the month at the Woodend RSL Hall, 32 Anslow Street, Woodend at 10am. If you are interested in amateur radio or already have a call sign they’d love to meet you.

■ http://www.mrarc.org.au

Take off weight naturally

Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Off Weight Naturally) every Thursday at 9am at the Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.

■ Rhonda, 0409 740 924

Kyneton Badminton Club

Kyneton Badminton Club is a welcoming, fun and social group that plays on Mondays, at 7pm at the Kyneton Toyota Sports and Aquatic Centre in Victoria Street. Players of all skill levels welcome.

■ kynetonbc@gmail.com

Macedon Ranges Masonic Lodge

Meets monthly on the first Thursday of the month at 7.30pm, 73 Main Street, Romsey. New members welcome.

■ Wayne, 0404 034 737, or Ian, 0438 240 402

Sunbury Art Society

The Sunbury Art Society meets each Friday and Saturday from 10am-3pm at the Boilerhouse, Jacksons Hill, to paint or draw over a cuppa with other like minded people.

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

Crafternoon

Get crafty over a cuppa at a social group for adults. Some supplies and equipment are available or bring your own projects and craft items. Every Tuesday at 1pm-3pm during school terms, all welcome. Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

Music and Singalong

Bring your instrument or your voice to a social group for adults. Songs with lyrics and chords can be viewed on the big screen, all skill sets welcome. Wednesdays

9am-noon, at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

Local camera club

The Macedon Ranges Photographic Society is your local camera club for friendship, photographic outings, workshops, guest presenters, competitions and more. Meetings on the first Tuesday of the month, followed by the next Monday. Doors open at 7pm, meeting starts at 7.30pm at Dromkeen 1012 Kilmore Road, Riddells Creek.

■ https://bit.ly/41j5BEw

Arts and games night

Get creative at the Sunbury Youth Centre each Wednesday from 3.30pm to 5.30pm. The free program is for people aged 12 to 18 years old, at 51-53 Evans Street, Sunbury.

Breast cancer support group

On the first and third Tuesday of the month breast cancer survivors are invited to head along to the Gisborne Golf Club at 10.30am to take part in a breast cancer support group.

■ Lesley, 0484 691 226

Village connect

Enjoy free coffee and cake while connecting with fellow Macedon Ranges residents 55 years-old and older. Happening on Tuesdays and Thursday at cafes across the municipality.

■ https://bit.ly/3AMUrxm, or 5422 0262

Carer connect chat

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

■ 0491 174 550, or rebecca.lees@scchc.org.au

HarmoniX Vocal Company

All-male singing group happening on Thursday, 7- 9.30pm in Sunbury, with a mixed choir, DynamiX Vocal Company, rehearsing Tuesday. 7-9.30pm. Rehearse at Dulap Wilim Hub, 11 Leichardt Street, Sunbury. No auditions required.

■ harmonixvcinc@gmail.com

Jacksons Creek Combined Probus

Visit or join the club which gathers on the second Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 10am. Enjoy outings, meetings and trips away.

■ Doug, 5428 3317, or Teresa, 0417 373 006

Craft and conversation

Head down to the Sunbury Library on Mondays at noon for the craft and conversation group. The program is free and open to people aged 15 years and older.

■ https://bit.ly/39BIu2O

Rotary club

The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Ball Court Hotel, 60 Macedon Street, Sunbury from 7pm.

■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

Chill Out Sunbury

Chill Out Sunbury is a free event for 12 and 18 years old to participate in activities such as trivia, games, and more. Happening every Wednesday, 3.30-5.30pm at the Sunbury Youth Centre, 51-53 Evans Street.

■ https://bit.ly/3lmVgVhv

Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club

Come along and be part of Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club and enjoy the benefits of physical activity. Social games are on Mondays, 9.30am to noon, and team competitions are on Thursdays, 9.30am-12.30pm at Eric Boardman Stadium, Wilsons Lane.

■ sunburylbc@gmail.com

Come have a chat

Delve into deeper topics and enjoy intriguing conversations by joining the Table 8 Discussion Group. Chats every Tuesday from 10.30 to 11.30am at Macedon Lounge, 40 Victoria Street, Macedon.

■ Carol, 0431 186 575

Sunbury Family History and Heritage Society

If you’ve got a hankering to learn more about Sunbury and your own family history, come along to meetings 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

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.

■ 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.

■ 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

Sunbury Seniors

Sunbury Seniors (55 or older) meet on Mondays and Fridays at 8 O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury, from 10am-3pm. A variety of activities are offered – indoor bowls, cards, snooker, guest speakers, day excursions, subsidised lunches or just a cup of coffee and a chat.

■ 0434 400 754

Probus Club Of Sunbury

Join the Probus Club of Sunbury on the first Wednesday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling club at 9.30am. It’s a friendly men’s group open to visitors and new members, with a number of great events held each month.

■ Greg, 0417 593 035

CWA Woodend Eves

The CWA Woodend Eves Branch is part of the Central Highlands group and meets every third Tuesday at 7pm at the Woodend Neighbourhood house. All women are welcome.

■ cwawoodendeves@gmail.com

Hume Mens Shed

The Hume Mens Shed (Sunbury) is a non for profit organisation, meeting every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at 158 Evans Street, Sunbury. The group caters for men be it carpentry, welding, metal work, gardening or just to chat.

■ sunburymensshed.com or 0438 677 425

Drop-in guitar

Bring your guitar and your favourite sheet music and join an informal guitar session for adults. Share songs and learn new ones, all skill sets welcome. Tuesdays, 9am-noon, at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive Sunbury.

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of writer, director and actress Alaine Beek and actor Ross Daniels from What Was That? 1000th Show at Werribee Mansion (Damjan Janevski). 349109_01

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

No.

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Detergent (4)

3 Very generous (10)

10 Examined (7)

11 Republic in northwest Africa (7)

12 Irascible (8)

13 Put to rest (5)

14 Domestic animals (4)

15 Annotations; game’s on-air description (10)

18 Keeping financial records (10)

20 Vicious (4)

21 Japanese dish (5)

23 Cherished (8)

26 Associate (7)

27 18th century Protestant theorist, Jonathan – (7)

28 Railway vehicle (10)

29 Biblical garden (4)

DOWN

1 Window frame (4)

2 Indifferent (9)

4 On the ground (9)

5 Actor, Oscar – (5)

6 Impress on the mind (7)

7 Actor, – Flynn (5)

8 Weepy; emotional (5-4)

9 Involving more than one country (abbr) 4)

14 Relating to European orchestral music (9)

16 Russian chemist who developed periodic table of the chemical elements (9)

17 Equipped (9)

19 Consistent (7)

22 Of sound waves (5)

23 Small in French (5)

24 US state (4)

25 Book ID (1,1,1,1)

1 14

2 15

3 16

4 17

5 18

6 19

7 20

8 21

9 22

10 23

11 24

DECODER WORDFIT 9-LETTER WORD

12 25

12 345678910111213

921854673

543672891

615237984 159726438

392485167 478391256

867913542

236548719

873692541

397264185

265819734

526147893 658431972

419385267 741928356

easy medium hard

184753629

932576418

R Today’s Aim:

16 3 LETTERS AND ANT ARE BOA COO EAR EAT EKE ERA EWE HOE IDS IRE KIN ODE OHM ORE PRO RID ROE SEA SIT TIE UTE 4 LETTERS ARMS BLAB CEDE DAUB ELSE HOGS ONUS SACS SEAT SECT SEES SNAP SPAS TIRE

427951638

546379821

789216354

784169325 273184965

658432179 195623487

931768542 864597213

312845796

felt, floe, flog, floret, flour, flout, flue, flute, FORGETFUL, foul, fouler, fretful, furl, gelt, glue, glut, golf, golfer, gruel, gulf, left, loft, loge, lore, lour, lout, lure, lute, ogle, role, ruffle, rule, truffle

5 LETTERS ABBOT ANGST APRON ARGUE AROMA ASIAN ASIDE ATOMS BRUSH BUSES CACTI CREST CRIME DOONA EAGER EASES ENTER ERECT FASTS FLAIL

GOATS HAVES HAVOC HEATS IDOLS IRKED ISLES MODEL NEIGH OBESE OCTAL OFFER PANDA PASTE PERIL POUCH RHINO RIDES SANER SCENE SEEDS

SHOUT SOLAR SORTS STAIR TESTS THERE UNTIE VISED VISTA 6 LETTERS ADHERE APPEAR HASSLE IRISES

7 LETTERS ASTRIDE EASTERN ENRAGES OCTAGON TRAINED WHITEST 8 LETTERS ASTUTEST ATTAINED BLACKTOP HANDICAP

04-08-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

1415 1617181920212223242526 O U F K V D P X I L J N Y A H W G B C E Z M Q T R S 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

No. 144

QUICK QUIZ

1 In which decade did Australia implement the eight-hour work day nationally for all industries?

2 Which famous poem contains the lines "The time has come," the Walrus said/"To talk of many things:/Of shoes and ships and sealing wax/ Of cabbages and kings"'?

3 What field of study is concerned with moral issues of biological research and medical practice?

4 In March of which year did the Ansett Australia Group cease operating?

5 The Komodo dragon (pictured) inhabits five islands, including the island of Komodo, in which country?

6 What three colours are on the Jamaican flag?

7 Which sought-after medal depicts three men with their hands on each other’s shoulders?

8 What is the collective term for the odourless, colourless, single-atom gases such as helium?

9 In rowing, which member steers and coordinates the rhythm of the rowers?

10 What is the largest city square in the world?

13 26 TS ANSWERS: 1. 1920s 2. The Walrus and the Carpenter, by Lewis Carroll 3. Bioethics 4. 2002 5. Indonesia 6. Black, yellow and green 7. The Nobel Peace Prize medal 8. Noble gases 9. Coxswain 10. Xinghai Square 16 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 1 August, 2023

No. 144

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BP Service Station Bulla

Jack McKenzie Community Centre Bulla

Coach and Horses Inn Clarkefield

Foodworks Diggers Rest

Diggers Rest Post Office Diggers Rest

Houdinis Cafe e Cucina Diggers Rest

Gisborne Village Fresh Gibsorne

Morgan's SUPA IGA Gibsorne

Macedon Ranges Shire Council Gibsorne

Gisborne Library Gisborne

Foodworks Gisborne

Macedon Ranges Health Service Gisborne

Puma Service Station Gisborne

Caltex Service Station Gisborne

Kuppers Fuel Stop Kyneton

The Lunchbox Kyneton

Kyneton Newsagency Kyneton

Kyneton Shire Offices Kyneton

Lancefield Newsagency Lancefield

United Service Station Macedon

Black Forest Motel Macedon

Roweys Macedon Family Hotel Macedon

IGA Supermarket Macedon

Macedon Newsagency Macedon

Malmsbury General Store Malmsbury

Monegeeta Newsagency Monegeeta

Mt Macedon Post Office Mount Macedon

Baringo Food and Wine Company New Gisborne

Riddells Creek Nursery Riddells Creek

Riddells Creek Post Office Riddells Creek

Foodies Riddells Creek

Riddells Creek Supermarket Riddells Creek

IGA Supermarket Romsey

Macedon Ranges Shire Offices Romsey

Sunbury Newsagency Sunbury

Ferguson Plarre Sunbury

The Jolly Miller Cafe Sunbury

The Local Sunbury Bottleshop Sunbury

Goonawarra General Store Sunbury

Sunbury Neighbourhood House Sunbury

Muffin Break Sunbury

Sunbury Square Shopping Centre Sunbury

Terry White Chemist Sunbury

Gap Road Medical Centre Sunbury

United Fuel Sunbury Sunbury

7-Eleven Sunbury Sunbury

Asia Finest Sunbury

Puma Service Station Sunbury

Woolworths Supermarket Sunbury

Big W Sunbury

BP Service Station Sunbury

Sunbury Day Hospital Sunbury

Hume Council Offices Sunbury

Sunbury & Cobaw Community Health Centre Sunbury

McKwen Drive Milk Bar Sunbury

Foodworks Bottlemart on Melba Sunbury

Foodworks on Melba Sunbury

Melba Cafe Sunbury

Mitchells Lane Milk Bar Sunbury

Just Planet Sunbury

An Apple a Day Natural Health Store Sunbury

Luckys Bakehouse Sunbury

The Spotted Owl Sunbury

Cafe Circe Sunbury

IGA Supermarket Sunbury

Strathearn Glen Corner Store Sunbury

Sacco & Saba Cafe Sunbury

Sunbury & Cobaw Community Health Centre Sunbury

Rosenthal Shopping Centre Sunbury

Tylden Store Tylden

Coles Supermarket Woodend

II cafe Woodend

Andrews Cafe Woodend

Fox in the Chamber Woodend

Maison Maloa Licensed Cafe & Gifts Woodend

Woodend Newsagency Woodend

Milko Cafe Woodend

Bourkies Bake House Woodend

BP Service Station Woodend

Real Estate Agents Everywhere

your business with TRADES & SERVICES

Full Time Farm Hand Required

A full-time opportunity has become available for a Farm Hand, at Widden Stud Victoria, a 450-acre Thoroughbred Horse Stud between Romsey and Riddells Creek, Victoria.

The successful applicant will be required to perform the following:

•Undertake pasture renovation and chemical spraying.

•Be able to maintain fencing, stock, and domestic water systems.

•Ability to complete general maintenance of farm equipment.

The ideal applicant will be an energetic person with good communication skills, who is well organized, with a positive attitude and strong work ethic. You will be required to use initiative to work both independently and alongside others.

Single accommodation is available if required. For further information please call Jason Robinson 0438 560 363 Applications will be accepted by email to jason@widden.com

SHEET METAL WORKER/ STAINLESS STEEL FABRICATOR/FITTER

We are a well-respected stainless steel fabrication and equipment manufacturer based in Sunbury and are currently looking for a full time, stainless steel Fabricator to join our team.

The ideal candidate will:

General Notices

BASESTATIONS LOCATED IN SHIRE OF MACEDON RANGES LGA

1.Optus is proposing to upgrade the existing facilities located at:

REAR HILL, 10 HARDINGS ROAD LANCEFIELD VIC 3435 (OPTUS SITE ID: M1520) WWW.RFNSA.COM.

AU/3435002

The proposed upgrade consists of:

•Replacement of three (3) existing panel antennas with three (3) new panel antennas less than 2.8m in length;

•Replacement of six (6) existing remote units with eight (8) remote radio units;

• Installation of one (1) GPS antenna; and

•the installation of ancillary equipment associated with the operation and safety of the facility.

11 PARK LANE ROMSEY VIC 3434 (OPTUS SITE ID: M8194) WWW.RFNSA.COM.AU/3434003

The proposed upgrade consists of:

•Replacement of three (3) existing panel antennas with three (3) new panel antennas less than 2.8m in length;

•Replacement of six (6) existing remote units with nine (9) remote radio units; and

•the installation of ancillary equipment associated with the operation and safety of the facility.

2. Optus regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the description above.

3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Enquiries and/or comments should be directed to: SKYAUS Infrastructure on 1300 845 444, via email at optusplanning@skyaus.com.au or via mail at 188 Newton Road, Wetherill Park NSW 2164 by 15 August 2023.

12624044-JB31-23

General Classifieds

•Possess a Certificate III in Engineering –Fabrication Trade

•Be able to understand and work from technical drawings

•Be able to TIG and MIG weld stainless steel and aluminium to a high standard

•Be willing to learn and work within a team environment

•Be able to work overtime and some weekends when required

•Possess a manual Drivers’ Licence and own transport.

•3rd or 4th Year Apprentices welcome to apply.

Please contact Mick Evans Mobile: 0428 781 998

Email: mick@ssafaustralia.com.au

“We advertise in our local Star Weekly to let our customers know about the services we offer and to reach the broader

- David

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Australian actor Eric Bana is an avid 'superfan’ of which AFL club?

2. How many new NRLW teams have been added ahead of its sixth season?

3. How much was Novak Djokovic fined after slamming his racket in frustration during the 2023 Wimbledon final?

4. Which Ukrainian tennis star made a ‘remarkable’ comeback after beating World No.1 Iga Swiatek

5. Which country defeated the Opals 74-60 in the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup?

6. Which AFL coach broke his hand during a game from punching a whiteboard?

7. In which year was the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc race first held?

8. And in which French commune is it annually held in?

What nationality is professional tennis star

The Kennett curse was the title given to Geelong’s rivalry with which AFL team during

Steph Catley scored against which national team in Australia’s first match of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup?

Which NBA All-Star won the 2023 American Century Championship celebrity golf tournament?

13. Hannah Wilkinson scored against which national team in New Zealand's first match of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup?

14. Which Japanese City hosted the 2023 World Aquatics Championships?

15. Sydney-born boxer Paulo Aokuso competed at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in which weight class?

16. In the 1996 film Jerry Maguire, the character Rod Tidwell played for which NFL team?

17. Which country recently deported Russian tennis professional Vera Zvonareva for reasons of state security and public safety?

18. Lionel Messi scored from a free kick in his first game for which Major League Soccer team?

19. Kennington, in the borough of Lambeth in south London, is home to which international ground?

20. Kevin Maxen is a strength coach for which Floridabased NFL team?

21. Jonas Vingegaard won which 2023 cycling event?

22. Which team recently broke the Formula 1 record for the most consecutive wins by a constructor?

23. Which Australian swimmer set a world record in the Women’s 400m freestyle final at the 2023 World Aquatics Championships?

24. Which A-League Men’s team recently went into receivership?

25. The 1993 drama film Rudy revolves around which sport?

26. Which English batter leads all run scorers after fourth tests in the 2023 Ashes series?

27. Irish footballer Sarah Rowe plays for which AFL Women’s team?

28. How many goals did Japan score against Zambia in their first 2023 Women’s World Cup match?

29. How many goals did Carlton forward Charlie Curnow kick in the Round 19 match against West Coast?

30. Before cancelling the event last week, in which year were the Commonwealth Games scheduled to be held in Victoria?

Jonas Vingegaard

Building drivers’ electric dreams

By Alistair Kennedy

Although the name BYD will be well-known to electricvehiclebuyers,it’sstilllargelyunknown in the Australian motoring mainstream – but that’s about to change.

SomewhatquirkilyBYDstandsforBuildYour Dreams and the Chinese company is actually the world’s second-largest manufacturer of fully-electrified vehicles, second only to Tesla.

When plug-in hybrids (PHEV) are added, it’s the largest, with over 1.6 million built in 2022.

Although there were a couple of BYD models sold in Australia from 2017 onwards these were private imports.

It wasn’t until the arrival of the Atto 3 in June, 2022 that the brand made any impact, and an impressive one at that, with sales of nearly 7000 in its first year.

A fully-electric compact SUV, the Atto 3 comes in two variants. There’s Standard Range and Extended Range, priced at $48,011 and $51,011 respectively (plus ORCs).

That’s around the same price as its closest competitor and compatriot, the MG ZS EV whichalsocomeswithstandardandlong-range variants.

Styling

With a length of 4455mm, Atto 3 is around the same size as Mazda CX-3, Nissan Qashqai and Toyota CH-R – but 135mm longer than the MG.

Although the overall design of the Atto 3 is neat and attractive, it’s relatively conservative especially when compared to the Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6.

As with most electric cars there’s no real or pretend grille.

A horizontal bar with the BYD insignia on it merges into narrow sweeping LED headlights with a thin band of LED daytime running lights between them.

The profile is similar to many similarly-sized SUVs although we did love the design of the 18-inch alloy wheels.

We find the ‘Build Your Dreams’ lettering spaced across the rear a bit too quirky.

We understand that some owners have been able to successfully remove the letters without causingdamage–butdon’ttakeourwordforit.

The rear also features a full width LED brake light and powered tailgate.

Four colours are offered. White is standard while the other three (grey, blue and red) are $700 extra.

Interior

When you step inside the BYD Atto 3 Monty Python’scatchphrase“AndNowForSomething Completely Different” springs to mind.

It is very different with a number of groundbreaking interior features.

We reckon buyers who are willing to think outside the square and buy a BYD will love the adventurous approach of this newcomer to the Australian market.

With predominantly sculpted soft-touch materials, overall build quality and fit and finish of the Atto 3 is excellent.

Some of the features are gimmicky, others are functional. Some are both, such as the three guitar-type strings that act as sides of the door storage pockets, but which are just asking to be twanged.

We shudder to think how annoying that couldbeonalongtripwithchildrenintherear.

After initially searching for the interior door handles, we found they were flip-up levers on top of the small round speakers in each door. In this case however form and function combined nicely and we quickly adapted to them.

Large circular air vents dominate the front of the centre console but are easy to adjust and provide excellent air flow.

In front of the driver is a 5.0-inch screen that effectively combines a head-up display with a digital instrument panel cluster.

The front seats are large, supportive and comfortable although the headrests are moulded into the seatbacks, so they can’t be adjusted.

They also partially block forward vision of rear-seat occupants.

Otherwise, rear passengers are well catered for with a similarly comfortable bench seat, although they do have adjustable headrests.

There’s plenty of leg, ankle and headroom with the flat floor making the centre seat more bearable than vehicles with a transmission tunnel.

The air vents are the same design as those in the front.

The panoramic sunroof extends across the full roof with a powered blind, although only the front section can be opened.

Available boot space ranges from 440 to 1340 litres with a powered bootlid and two adjustable floor levels.

There is no spare wheel, just a tyre repair kit below the boot floor.

Safety

Atto 3 scores a full five stars for safety, with an extensive list of safety equipment, starting with seven airbags, six radars, adaptive cruise control with stop/start, automatic emergency braking,frontandrearcollisionwarning,blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert and braking.

There are front and rear parking sensors, rear-view 360-degree cameras, Isofix child seat anchor points and hill descent control.

Infotainment

The standout feature is the 12.0-inch high-definition tablet-style touchscreen which, at the touch can rotate between landscape and portrait format.

So, for features like map and camera displays it works best in landscape, while for most other features, portrait is not only more suitable but also brings the screen within closer reach of the driver.

The original Atto 3 did not come with either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto but these have been added with the MY2023 update and will also be installed as part of the latest upgrade for earlier models.

Apple CarPlay is wired, Android Auto is wireless.

There is a wireless smartphone charging pad at the base of the front console.

Sound comes through an eight-speaker Dirac digital audio system.

There are USB-C and USB-A ports underneath the centre console and also in the rear.

Thecamerasprovidealargevarietyoffeatures including a dashcam which automatically records and saves action in front of the car.

The videos are stored on a memory card which can be extracted and the videos transferred to an external source. Very handy if there are any incidents or even to monitor the driving habits of different drivers. Young or inexperienced drivers – you have been warned!

Driving

At this point in time, BYD doesn’t have the same media fleet as almost all other brands, so we weren’t able to conduct our normal week-long test.

Fortunately, however, one of our neighbours recently bought an Atto 3 and she was able to give us a guided tour of the car and let us take it around our usual drive route.

Apart from the normal key fob the Atto 3 comes with a plastic card which opens and closes the car by tapping it on the driver’s side door handle.

Entry is quite easy even for larger occupants and the seats are large, supportive and comfortable.

There’s an aircraft-style gear selector which is fun to use.

Like all other electrified vehicles, the instant torque provides exhilarating speed off the mark. The dash to 100km/h takes 7.3 seconds which is brisk but not nearly as quick as many EVs.

Drive is to the front wheels through a single speedtransmission,withasingleelectricmotor for the front axle that puts out 150kW of power and 310Nm of torque.

The standard model gets a 49.92kWh battery and the long range, 60.48kWh.

Regardless, energy consumption is 16.0kWh/100km with a driving range that is listed for the two variants at 410km and 480km under the old NEDC system or 345km and 420km using the more realistic WLTP measure.

Our test car was the Atto 3 Extended Range variant.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE

Atto 3 Standard Range: $48,011

Atto 3 Extended Range: $51,011

SPECIFICATIONS

BYD Atto 3 fully-electric five-door SUV

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

Itslargerbatterybringskerbweightto1750kg -- 70kg heavier than the Standard Range.

Inevitably extra weight affects performance and we found the Extended Range Atto 3 a little more sluggish than competitors with lighter batteries.

So, something of a trade-off there.

The car’s regenerative braking has only two modes, standard and high, operated by a small toggle lever on the centre console rather than the more convenient steering wheel paddles of most EVs.

Nor is there a single-pedal option so the brake pedal needs to be employed to bring the car to a stop.

Atto 3 is built on 400-volt electrical architecture and supports maximum AC charging (Type 2) of 7 kW (standard) or 11 kW (option) as well as DC fast charging (CCS2) at a maximum rate of either 70kW (Standard Range) or 80kW (Extended Range).

It does have V2L (Vehicle-To-Load) charging which allows external items to be powered from the vehicle.

Summing up

More and more people are asking us about fully-electric cars. Our standard response is to hold off until prices reduce and the driving ranges increase.

That time is moving closer, triggered mainly by the arrival of Chinese EVs such as the MG ZS EV, GMW Ora and – most impressive of all – the BYD Atto 3.

Although it lacks the head-turning looks and performance of rivals such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV 6, the Atto 3 is significantly cheaper and, at the end of the day, most EV owners are looking for sensible, affordable transport rather than sportiness.

There’s no doubt the Atto 3’s interior, with its combination of quirkiness and gee-whiz technology, will attract most sales.

So, if you are going to take one for a test drive, and we’d certainly recommend doing so, thensetasideplentyoftimetoexperimentwith the many features.

It’s an ideal size for a small family and for urban commuting, with very competitive pricing.

And, with zero emissions, the planet will thank you.

Lions keen for big tests as finals fast approach

TheSunburyLionsarelookingforwardtosome tough tests on the run home in the Ballarat Netball League.

The Lions sit in fourth on the ladder after 14 rounds, having had their second bye on the season on Saturday.

Having not had an A-grade side last season, the Lions have shown they are set to be among the contenders come the pointy end of the season. Lions coach Kim Bailey said finals were now the aim, having achieved their first goal many months ago.

“We are just cruising along,” she said. “We just wanted to get back on the court and have six sides, which didn’t seem likely early in the season.

“The next goal was for A-grade to make the top six. Where we finish is in the hands of the gods, we’re hoping to finish third.”

Bailey said they were only just starting to

really come together having been a brand new side. Having had a bye on the weekend, Bailey said they were just keen to get out there and play some more netball.

“This is our first season so in the run into finals, we need to play as much as we can,” she said. “The VNL [Victorian Netball League] has just finished so some weary bodies can have some rest, but we would still like to be playing.”

The Lions have some tougher challenges in the run home, with matches against the top two sides Darley and North Ballarat among the last month of netball.

Bailey said while they had been winning some matches with large scores, they wanted to be tested a bit more.

“We play Melton which is playing some good netball and we’ve still got North Ballarat and Darley.

“We’ve been concerned we’ve had none of

those close games and really being tested in the last little bit.

“We’ll head up there [North Ballarat and Darley] and it will be good experience for someone like Lani Fauonuku to play against a bit harder style.”

The Lions will have to finish the season without Georgia Hellyer, who was one of three Lions players across the club to do their ACL in recent weeks.

Bailey said those injuries had deflated the whole playing group. The Lions will try and qualify Olivia Taylor, while also bringing up Casey Barker from B-grade to give them some cover. While the Lions A-grade is set to play finals, several other Lions sides are also still in the mix to play finals in positive news for the club.

Quarrell to lead Burras

When Darren Quarrell was asked about getting back involved with Diggers Rest Bulla, he jumped at the chance.

One of the premier bowlers in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association previously, Quarrell stepped away from cricket due to work and having a young family.

But when circumstances changed and the offer to coach the club was suggested, Quarrell put his hand up.

“I’ve never coached a whole club before,” he said.

“I’ve coached bowling wise, so it will be interesting.

“I haven’t played for five seasons. Work wise things have matched up with a new role that I’m able to finish earlier and actually get to training and that sort of thing.

“When [president] Corey [Goforth] messaged me to ask if I was keen, it was an opportunity to get back into cricket, as I had missed it too much.”

Quarrell will return as a player as well, but said he would like to jump between the grades as he tries to get an idea of the players at the club.

He is the club’s second highest ever wicket taker with 261 wickets.

Roar strengthen squad

By Tara Murray

Sunbury has strengthened its batting line up as it aims to have an instant impact in Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 2.

The Roar, which was recently promoted after a vacancy arose in the division, will have a different looking line up this season.

Jace Carton remains as coach, while Kevin Barker steps up as captain with Stephen Treweek stepping down from the role.

Carton said they were pretty excited about the new challenge ahead.

“We picked up the four main guys,” he said. “It will be a different looking side.

“The guys we have brought in bring something on and off field and they want to get involved and help the younger guys.”

Carton said they had made a real focus on strengthening the batting line up, which was one area that let them down next season.

Rasika Batepola, Indika Massalage and Gayan Welikalage and Mick Sammut have all made the move to the Roar.

The first three all join the club from Diggers

Rest Bulla in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association.

Batepola, an all-rounder, is a former captain and coach of the club. He will be a batting assistant coach at the Roar.

Massalage is a powerful batter, who has a high score of 266, while Gayan Welikalage was named in the GDCA team of the year last season.

Sammut, who has had a few years off after previously playing in the GDCA, is the brother of Barker.

Carton said from last season’s grand final side, Jason McGann wouldn’t be playing this season and neither would Sajith Kalumpriya.

Carton said he wouldn’t play in the first XI as he focused more on coaching and development this season.

He said there would also still be plenty of opportunity for the younger players coming through the ranks.

Barker said after coming to the club last year, he felt right at home. He said he never planned to be captain, but it was the way it panned out.

“The club was close to home and I wanted to

play on turf,” he said. “I loved every minute of it and everything they are trying to do.

“I want to help make the club a better place. Steve is an amazing friend and a great leader but he was keen to focus on his cricket.”

Barker is no stranger to leadership roles, having held many including captain and coach at Diggers Rest Bulla.

He said he was keen to use his experience to help those at the club get better.

It was Barker’s connections that played a big part in the four signings.

“We were looking to strengthen the list,” he said. “They are quality people, not just good people.

“It was a no brainer and I’m pretty excited.”

Barker, who has played at higher levels, said they were keen to test themselves at the higher level.

“We have a good blend of youth and experience,” he said. “Everyone wants to get better and we’re not there to make up the numbers.

“We’re confident of being able to give it a good shake.”

It will be a different Burras line up to the one that finished the McIntyre Cup season in fourth spot.

Rhys Berry has crossed to Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association club Melton, with Quarrell saying he wanted to have a last crack at playing on turf.

Rasika Batepola, Indika Massalage and Gayan Welikalage have all moved to Sunbury, which plays in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association.

Quarrell said for him heading into this season, was making sure that those within the club were getting opportunities to better themselves.

“From what I’ve heard they really didn’t have an opportunity last season,” he said.

“We’re starting from scratch again. We’ll see how we go and the main thing is to give everyone a go.

“We want to reward the ones playing well and the ones that do the hard work as training.

“It’ll be an interesting season, an exciting season.”

Tara Murray

Lani Fauonuku. (Jacob Pattison) 334038_16

Tara Murray

Indika Massalage has joined Sunbury. (Jacob Pattison) 318059_03

Tigers too good for Bulldogs, as Quinn kicks four

It was a case of deja vu for Kyneton and Gisborne in the Bendigo Football League on Saturday.

Having played a thriller the first time between the two teams, the Tigers managed to sneak home again to keep in touch with the top five.

Wins against Gisborne have been rare for the Tigers in recent years, let alone two in one season.

Tigers president Hayden Evans said he can’t remember the last time they won the local Macedon Ranges derby twice in the one year.

“It’s happened before, but I can’t remember the last time,” he said. “It was a great game of a high standard and high intensity.

“It was pretty close all day. Gisborne got out to a three or four goal lead in front and we were able to come home in a rush.

“It was a really good day for the club.”

It was a high scoring game early with Kyneton leading by eight points at quarter time and then the Bulldogs by 15 points at the main break.

The Bulldogs were still in front by two goals

at the last change. The Tigers kicked six goals to three in the final quarter to seal the 17.8 (110)-16.11 (107) win.

Thomas Quinn kicked four goals for the Tigers, with Harrison Sheahn kicking three goals and Jordan and Lucas Ludica and Jake Summers kicking two goals each.

Evans said both Ludica brothers had strong games along with Bailey McGee, Cameron Manuel, Hamish Yunghanns and Ethan Turner.

“It was really good to see a lot of the young local kids step up,” he said. “They haven’t had a lot of success against Gisborne in the past.

For the Bulldogs, Luke Ellings kicked four goals and Brad Bernacki kicked three goals. Ellings was named their best.

The win and Strathfieldsaye suffering a loss has the Tigers a game outside the top five. Gisborne is a game further back.

There are still four remains remaining. Evans said they need some luck in the round home and need to pinch a couple of wins they’re not expected to.

It’s been a big few weeks for the Tigers, with

Paul Chapman stepping down as coach. The clubhasadvertisedforanewcoach,withEvans saying they were hoping to have someone locked in before the end of the season.

“The transition was as good as you can hope for,” he said. “Paul was at the game yesterday [Saturday].

“We’re going through the process and a few people are interested.”

The Tigers this week face Castlemaine at Castlemaine. The first game between the two sides didn’t go ahead after Castlemaine’s Dallas Keogh-Frankling died following the under-18 match.

Sunbury pulls off upset

By Tara Murray

Sunbury United’s promotion hopes may be all but over, but Sunbury continues to push in the FV state league 3 north-west competition.

Having not lost in its last seven games, Sunbury extended that to eight with an upset win against second placed Craigieburn City on Saturday.

Sunbury coach Danny Moore said it was their best win of the season.

“Itwasourbiggestwinoftheseasonplaying against a Craigieburn side that were second placed heading into the game,” he said.

“They are still very much aiming for promotion and they would have been confident. A promotion spot is too far our of reach.

“We want to finish as high as we can. The themethroughouttheweekwastolooktohold up our standards and stick to the principles that have held us in good stead.”

Sunbury hit the lead just before half time through a penalty, before former Sunbury

striker Jayden Mercieca levelled the scores for Craigieburn.

Craigieburn went a man down after a red card, with Jake McIntyre scoring his and Sunbury’s second from the resulting penalty.

Aaron Cosgriff scored two goals late to seal the win for Sunbury.

Moore said the pleasing thing was how the group had shown their growth having been in a similar position the week before.

“The boys dominated and I thought we were the better side throughout. We had opportunities and we were able to execute them and score four goals.

“The same thing [the opposition went down a man] happened last week against the Western Eagles.

“We didn’t play well in that scenario and we learned our lesson from last week.”

Moore said the return of Ashley Webster, who they signed in the transfer window, had made a difference with Webster enjoying the return to his former club.

Sunbury sits in sixth spot, just five points

behind top side Uni Hill Eagles, who have played one less game.

Heidelberg Eagles are equal on points with Uni Hill and were due to play Monday night after deadline.

Moore said even if they won all three of their remaining games they would likely fall short of a promotion spot.

“The top couple of sides have had loses the last couple of weeks,” he said. “We haven’t lost one in the last eight games.

“If we pull off three wins it will be really tight at the end, which makes it a really interesting season.

“The league is so tight and there’s going to be a few more twists and turns before the season finishes.”

This weekend is a catch up round, with Sunbury having the weekend off. Moore said it came at a perfect time to allow them to rest a few sore bodies.

Sunbury faces Williamstown, one of those teams above it, in the match after the split round.

Sports shorts

EDFL

Gisborne enters the Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 finals on a winning note. The Bulldogs were pushed hard by Tullamarine on Saturday, with the Bulldogs winning 7.8 (50)-6.9 (45). Charlotte Noonan kicked four goals for the Bulldogs. The Bulldogs face the Essendon Doutta Stars in a knock out semi final on Saturday. The Sunbury Lions finished their season with a loss to the Stars, while in division 2 the Sunbury Kangaroos knocked off Coburg Districts.

Bendigo NL

Gisborne came out on top in the local derby in the Bendigo Netball League on Saturday. Facing the lower ranked Kyneton, the Bulldogs were able to get the win 57-31.The Bulldogs sit in second spot, while Kyneton is in seventh spot, a game outside the top five.

EDFL

Rupertswood fought hard to come away with the points against Craigieburn in the Essendon District Football League division 1 on Saturday. The Eagles led at each of the first two breaks, before the Sharks hit the front in the third quarter. The Sharks finished off strongly to come away with an 11.17 (83)-8.10 (58) win. Bailey Verrall was named the Sharks best. The Sharks remain in third spot. In division 2, Sunbury Kangaroos and East Sunbury had the bye.

Coates Talent League

The Calder Cannons proved too strong for the Dandenong Stingrays in the Coates Talent League boys competition on Saturday. The Cannons led by nine points at quarter time before it was reduced to six points at half time. Four goals to one opened the lead up to 29 points at the last break with the Cannons able to do enough in the last quarter to win, 12.13 (85)-7.9 (51). Damon Hollow was named the Cannons best. The Cannons sit fourth on the ladder.

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Thomas Quinn kicked four goals on Saturday. (Jacob Pattison) 334031_01

Tara Murray

Sunbury United’s Joel Grech (Jacob Pattison)326659_13

Sky Blues jubilant after clinching their first win

Gisborne finally has a win on the board in the FV state league 4 west season.

It’s been a tough season for the Sky Blues with just one draw from their first 18 matches.

But on Saturday, the Sky Blues got the chance to smile and sing the song after the game, beating Spring Hills, 4-3.

Playing coach and president Carl Valeri said it was a massive moment for the group that has stuck together all season.

“It’s the result we’ve been longing for,” he said. “We knew we had a shot. Last time we played them it was a close match.

“We had a strong team out there, one of our strongest teams we’ve had in a long time. We could feel before the game that they really wanted to win.”

The match wasn’t an easy one for the Sky

Blues with plenty of twists and turns.

The Sky Blues opened the scoring in the 33rd minute before Spring Hills levelled the scores on half time.

The Sky Blues again took the lead before going a man down with Spring Hills soon levelling the scores again.

Valeri said the group just pushed themselves to the limit to come away with the win.

“We went down to 10 men,” he said. “We scored two goals with 10.

“We said to the boys we are still in this game, they scored from two free kicks. We felt like we were in control of the game. To score a third and fourth goal was a real team effort.”

Valeri said the result was the effort of a lot of hard work for the group they had put in

during the season.

He said it was nice to see the smiles on the playing group after the game and it showed the maturity of the club and that they were heading in the right direction.

The Sky Blues remain on the bottom of the ladder, but are now four points behind Spring Hills and eight points behind the Truganina Hornets.

Having been keen to consolidate their spot in division 4 this season, Valeri knows the results haven’t been what they wanted.

He said everyone, including himself, had learned a lot this season and that the club was still on the right track even if they go down a division.

“We knew it was going to be a challenge, but we wanted to give it a crack,” he said. “We have given it a good shot.

Cats go into grand final

By Tara Murray

Macedon could have never imagined in its wildest dreams that it would be in the Riddell District Football League women’s grand final in its first season.

Not sure whether they would get the numbers to field a team for the first time, the Cats have come from fourth to make the grand final.

Cats Tamara Collins said it was still sinking in that they had made the decider after Saturday’s preliminary final win against Melton.

“It was really scary yesterday [Saturday], today it’s really good,” she said. “The excitement was immense after the game.

“I’ve been told back at the club rooms everyone was talking about women’s footy making it through.

“Everyone is quite excited. For a lot of the women it’s the first ever grand final they have been part of.

“We feel like we want to get grand final week started now and pump it up.”

The Cats entered Saturday’s preliminary final against Melton as the underdog, having lost to the Bloods twice during the regular season.

It was an even first quarter and the Bloods still led by one point at the main break.

The Bloods kicked the only goal of the third quarter to open up a nine point lead heading into the final break.

Collins said the Cats had plenty of confidencegoingintothefinalquarter,asthey were kicking with the wind.

“It was a really tough game,” she said. “Melton has some great markers of the ball and put us under a fair bit of pressure.

“We had the wind going into the final quarter and we gave out some monetary motivation and one of the girls kicked a couple of goals.

“We stepped it up a little bit and we’ve always been able to finish games off strongly, whether we win or lose.”

The Cats would kick three final quarter goals to seal the 4.4 (28)-2.4 (16) win and the grand final spot.

Lilli Collins kicked two final quarter goals, while Anastasia Fisher took a strong mark and convertedfortheothergoalinthefinalquarter.

Tamara Collins said it was the young ones that really led the way, especially late.

“Lily Prater, Scarlett Lynch and Lulu Slater were all really good,” she said. “They just stepped up and ran with the ball and put Melton under the pump.”

The Cats now face Kyneton in the grand final on Saturday at 5.30pm at Gilbert Gordon Oval for the first RDFL women’s premiership.

The Tigers, who are undefeated, will go in favouritesastheysearchfortheirfirstwomen’s premiership In the two matches between the sides this season, the Tigers won 77-0 and 36-1. Collins said anything can happen in a grand final.

“All games start 0-0,” she said. “You’re always in with a chance and we want to make it hard for them, that will feel like a success for us.

“Hopefully we’ll have a big crowd up there watching.”

“Having a goal has helped everyone including myself become better. We have improved as a team and individuals.

“We will keep going as there’s still a chance [of avoiding relegation] but a lot would have to go right, we will hold our heads high as a club.”

There is a catch up round this weekend, which means the Sky Blues.

Valeri is one player keen to rest the body this week, having played more games than he would have expected.

The Sky Blues then have a tough run home, with trips to Geelong and Torquay in the last three matches.

In the women’s state league 3 west competition,GisbornebeatNorthMelbourne Athletic, 5-2.

The Sky Blues sit in sixth spot.

Bombers beat the Burras

Riddell has ended the winning run of Diggers Rest while continuing to show its premiership credentials in the Riddell District Football League.

After a slow start to the season, the Bombers have now won seven games in a row, including beating five other teams still in finals contention,

On Saturday the Bombers did what no other team had been able to this season, get a win against the Burras.

The Bombers took an early lead and were able to still be 17 points up at half time. The margin blew out to 40 points at the last break.

The Bombers were able to finish off the match by winning the last quarter and the match, 12.17 (89)-6.8 (44).

Dylan Tarczon kicked three goals for the Bombers, while Trent Stead and Lucas Shaw kicked two goals each.

Jesse Horton and Tarczon were named the Bombers best. Jai White was named the Burras best.

Despite the win, the Bombers remain in fourth spot.

Macedon moved into the top five with victory against Melton Centrals.

A five goal second quarter proved the difference for the Cats in the 11.9 (75)-7.7 (49) win.

Hamish Govan was named their best.

The Cats sit a game clear of Centrals and Romsey, which lost a thriller to Woodend-Hesket.

The Hawks had to come from behind to get the win.

The Redbacks led by 14 points at the first break and five points at the main break. The margin was back to one point at the final change.

There was nothing in it in the end, with the Hawks winning 14.11 (95)-14.10 (94).

Tom O’Loughlin kicked four goals for the Hawks, while Jack Jedwab kicked seven for the Redbacks.

In the other match, Lancefield beat the Western Rams, 17.16 (118)-0.2 (2).

Alexander Simpson kicked seven goals for the Tigers.

Tara Murray

Scarlett Lynch. (Jacob Pattison)337332_01