MARCH 26, 2019 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
news + sport + property guide
(Marco De Luca)
Next chapter for lit fest Book in some time to indulge your passion for reading at Riddells Creek. More than 200 booklovers are expected to attend the fourth Dromkeen Litfest to celebrate children’s literature. Dromkeen owner Bernadette Joiner said the annual festival was a great event for people of all ages. “It’s a day for children, for families, for teachers, librarians, just anyone really who’s interested in children’s literature. “This year’s theme is stories connect us to the past, present and future and we have a number of award-winning authors and illustrators. “It’ll be a fantastic opportunity to encourage local children’s literature and books and stories.” The festival will feature authors Trace Balla, Corinne Fenton, Claire Saxby, Mark Wilson and illustrator Marc McBride. There will be the launch of two new picture books, author and illustrator talks, book readings and signings, art and craft activities. The festival will be on March 30 between 10am-4pm at the Dromkeen Homestead, 1012 Kilmore Road, Riddells Creek. For bookings: bit.ly/2Ya920K sebastian and Zoe
Jessica Micallef
Ranges crime rates up Theft offences in the Macedon Ranges have hit a 10-year high, as overall crime levels in the region rise, new figures reveal. The latest data from the Crime Statistics Agency reveals theft offences have risen 18.3 per cent (from 617 reported offences to 730) in the year to December, 2018. There were 421 theft offences reported in the year to December, 2009, when the data was first collected. Total crime across the Macedon Ranges rose nearly nine per cent in the year to December,
‘‘
We’ve also run community forums in each town - Chris Large
’’
2018, compared to the previous year. Property and deception offences – including arson, property damage, burglary and breaking and entering, theft and deception – rose by 13 per cent (from 1018 to 1223) in the same time. Macedon Ranges Inspector Chris Large said the police were engaging with residents
to help put a stop to crime, in particular theft. “That ranges from thefts of cars, which can include number plates,” he said. “Theft of petrol is significantly up, as is shoplifting and also burglaries on rural properties. “We’ve also run community forums in each town in the Macedon Ranges to talk about how to prevent themselves from being victims of crime.” Stalking, harassment and threatening behaviour offences dropped by 30 per cent (66 reported offences to 95) in the year to December, 2018, compared to the previous year.
Drug offences, including drug dealing and trafficking, cultivating or manufacturing drugs and drug use and possession – rose by nearly 12 per cent (from 117 to 137). “We’re always doing more drug road-side tests – it’s something that we focus on,” Inspector Large said. He said police were also executing more drug warrants. Offences including robbery, blackmail and extortion and homicide and related offences remained steady in the year to December, 2018.
Doug 0412 009 436 Limited offers, while stocks last. These offers are only available at participating Suzuki automobile dealers. Private buyers only. Vehicles must be purchased between 1/3/19 and 31/3/19 to be eligible for these offers. *Price based on Baleno GL manual model. Premium metallic paint $500 extra.
12413726-RC12-19 10070720-15
By Jessica Micallef