Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 20th January 2026

Boost our stops

By Georgia Tacey

There’s only one bus service that connects Sunbury to Macedon Ranges towns like Romsey and Lancefield. The bus service operates just nine times a day, and stops at a total of eight stops.

In Romsey, there’s only three stops throughout the town along Main Street; GordonCresent,RomseyCommunityHub, and Palmer Street.

But as the town expands – and with a news aged care facility near the town –more public transport facilities are need, according to bus users.

Sunbury local Mary Nehmy regularly travels to Romsey, and relies on public transport to get her there.

She visits Romsey Community Aged Care,onGoodeniaLane,butsaidstruggles tomakethejourneywiththelastbusstopa considerable distance from the facility.

The last bus stop before Lancefield is Palmer Street-Main Street, which is almost one kilometre away from the aged care centre, or a 12-minute walk.

“I have mobility issues. I use a walking sticknowandI’vegotsevereosteoarthritis,” Ms Nehmy said.

Ms Nehmy is calling for a fourth bus stop to be added in Main Street, close to Goodenia Lane, which she says will greatly benefit residents, families and staff travelling to the facility.

Romsey Community Aged Care wellbeing coordinator Amanda Cernjavic said the limited public transport in the town was a barrier to those visiting the service.

“It would be great to have a bus stop next to the Romsey Community Aged Care as we have families that rely on transport to visit their loved ones,” she said.

“We are rural here so options are limited.”

At the moment, Romsey Neighbourhood House is assisting Ms Nehmy with transportation to the aged care facility.

“Iwanttobeindependent,Idon’twantto relyonotherpeople…Idon’twanttodrain their resources,” she said.

“It’snotjustme,I’msuretherearepeople out there, especially older people (who need the bus stop). It would be a value to the community.

“If residents want to go down the street, they can’t, they have to rely on family and visitors and other people.”

Ms Nehmy has contacted Sunbury MP

Josh Bull, who she said has written to the public transport minister on her behalf. She also contacted the bus company, but was referred back to the state government and Public Transport Victoria, who undertake the assessment for changes to

bus stops and routes.

“We understand the important role public transport plays to keep Victorians movingandwewillcontinuetoreviewand improve our bus networks,” a Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson

told Star Weekly.

“We value community feedback and any changes to existing bus stops and routes will need to be assessed to ensure services can continue to run safely and efficiently.”

The ‘Big Switch’ is coming

The new timetable for the train networks ‘Big Switch’ has been released, with the state government saying it will deliver more than 1000 extra weekly services.

Public and Active Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams released the new timetable on Monday 12 January ahead of the Big Switch on Sunday 1 February, so passengers can find out how their journey will change and where to interchange when new services are added.

“We’re excited for passengers to be able to enjoy more of the benefits of the Metro

Tunnel with more than one thousand extra services being added from February in the biggest change to our network in 40 years,” Ms Williams said.

The Big Switch will integrate the new Metro Tunnel into the wider transport network, with thousands of individual timetable changes at once.

This will include the first of 260 new bus timetables to better connect to Metro Tunnel services.

All services on the Sunbury, Cranbourne and Pakenham lines will switch to run ex-

clusively through the new tunnel and 1000 new weekly services will be added to these lines to kick off a turn-up-and-go network.

During the peak, a train will arrive at each of the new Metro Tunnel stations up to every three minutes.

Trains will run at least every 10 minutes between Watergardens and Dandenong stations in both directions between 6am to 9pm.

On 1 February, the Frankston Line will also return to the City Loop, while Werribee and Williamstown lines will temporarily run

High number of koala roadstrikes in Ranges

Wildlife carers are reminding Macedon Ranges residents to take care on the roads with Koala breeding season in full swing.

Wildlings Wildlife Shelter Woodend volunteer Mel Fraser has urged residents to slow down amid one of the worst breeding seasons she’s seen in the Macedon Ranges for road trauma.

“Within just three weeks, four breeding-age koalas were killed by cars, meaning four individual breeding animals have been lost from the shire,” she said.

“We also attended a mother and joey found walking down the Calder Freeway, who were both thankfully rescued and released to safety.

“Tragically, a beautiful adult male koala was also struck on the Calder, and his injuries were so severe that euthanasia was the only humane option.”

Ms Fraser said reporting incidents was crucial.

“What was particularly distressing is that none of the drivers who struck the four koalas reported the incidents, meaning the animals were left alive and suffer-

ing on the road,” she said.

“Reporting is absolutely critical – the sooner we receive a call, the better the chance we have to save them.

“We’re volunteers, and many of these calls come in late at night, even after midnight on workdays, but we do everything we can to attend every case.”

The shelter has placed two koala signs in response to the fatalities to warn drivers to slow down along Gisborne-Melton Road, Gisborne and Gisborne-Bacchus Marsh Road, Bullengarook.

Koalas can be found across the Macedon Ranges, including around Romsey, Woodend, Macedon, Mount Macedon, Hesket, Cherokee, Gisborne, Riddells Creek, Bullengarook and Newham.

Breeding season typically runs from September through to early March, and Ms Fraser said during these times koalas will roam more than usual as they search for mates.

“This means they’re much more likely to be on the ground and crossing roads, making them especially vulnerable to ve-

directly to Flinders Street before connecting with the Sandringham Line later in the year to form a new cross-city service.

The state government said the Big Switch is just the first installment of more services that will be added to the network – with more frequent services across the network to come from the middle of the year including on the Werribee, Sandringham, Craigieburn and Upfield lines.

Details: https://transport.vic.gov.au/ news-and-resources/projects/metro-tunnel/more-ways-to-move

Help keep lizards safe from harm

Spotting a blue-tongue lizard might cause a fright but it is no reason to be concerned, according to a nature educator.

Susie Inglis from Nature West is encouraging people in the western suburbs to take a few steps to ensure minimal harm comes to the species which can often be mistaken for snakes.

While being mostly harmless to humans, Ms Inglis said people often assume blue-tongue lizards are aggressive.

“To people who don’t know them, they are often misunderstood as a danger to humans and pets, or mistaken for snakes, evoking panic,” Ms Inglis said.

“But as many of us know, bluetongue lizards are harmless to humans and can be a great garden buddy, as they love to eat snails, slugs and many other garden pests.

“Although you may also notice some of your strawberries are missing if they were close to the ground, they usually live harmoniously in your garden without bothering you or your pets.

“Eastern blue-tongue lizards have strips like some snakes, such as the Tiger snake; and although they both make a hissing sound when threatened, this is where their similarities end.

“Blue-tongue lizards differ from snakes in the most obvious way, as they have legs, with five fingers and five toes.”

However, some pets don’t tend to view the largest skink species as neighbours, Ms Inglis said.

hicle strikes,” she said.

She said the shelter has also developed a community-based koala sighting app for residents to report sightings.

“We strongly encourage residents to report koala sightings directly to The Wildlings so we can continue building a local koala database. Every sighting helps us identify movement corridors, high-risk road areas and important habitat, allowing us to better protect these animals before tragedy strikes,” she said.

The Wildlings Woodend Wildlife Shelter recommends Macedon Ranges residents to slow down when driving around dusk and dawn; plant native trees that provide food and shelter for koalas; walk dogs on lead in bushland and forested areas; and report any wildlife roadstrike to Wildlife Victoria.

Sick, injured or orphaned wildlife can be reported to Wildlife Victoria on 8400 7300.

Locations can also be marked on Google or Apple Maps to assist volunteers to find injured wildlife.

Details: https://www.facebook.com/ NoahandLil

“They need to be protected from dogs, who often see them as a threat …not the dog’s fault, just two species that shouldn’t be in the same space together,” she said.

“Keeping cats indoors and providing places of protection for lizards and skinks in your garden, such as rocks, logs and low vegetation like Australian tussock grasses, can help them live happily in urban environments.”

If pets may be a threat to the lizard, a protected native species, Ms Inglis recommends moving them from the backyard to front yard.

“They are protected native species and are not allowed to be relocated, unless by a licensed reptile handler, usually a snake catcher,” she said.

Another major and potentially lethal danger for the blue-tongue are bait pellets used for snails and rats, of which the lizards may mistake as edible, Ms Inglis said.

Speeding? Wrong choice.

The police will be using every tool they have to keep the roads safe. But if you decide to speed, how your holiday ends is your choice.

New community centre

By Georgia Tacey

The residents of Sunbury’s growing housing estatesaresettobenefitfromanewcommunity centre close to home.

Hume council has awarded a contract for the design and construction of the Jacksons Creek Community Centre in Sunbury’s south.

ThecentrewillbeoneofthefirstcommunityfacilitiesdeliveredintheSouthSunbury Precinct Structure Plan, which includes estates along Sunbury Road.

Cr Jarrod Bell said at the 15 December

council meeting that the centre will be the ‘beating heart’ for the new estates in Sunbury’s south.

“This is in the heart of Everly Estate, right next door to Redstone and across the road from Kingsfield, St Ronan’s, Maplestone’s a little bit further down the road and right now to Goonawarra, an established community as well,” he said.

“What we know particularly from those who live in growing communities … young, growing communities need community facilities, and particularly places like kindergartens and what we are seeing.”

Cr Bell said the area will soon be home to thousands of people, and will offer vital services close to home for residents.

“What this new community centre is going to offer is … two kindergarten rooms with outdoor play areas, child and maternal health consulting rooms, and flexible community rooms where families and neighbours can meet, connect, and take part in activities as our community develops,” he said.

The more than $15 million project is also supported by the state government, with $4.5 million secured to support the inclu-

Sunbury school and men’s shed unite

Kismet Park Primary School and Hume

Shed Sunbury have joined forces on a special project at the Sunbury school.

The collaborative project will see the construction of a new gaga pit at the school, which acting principal Sam Carlton welcomed for the school community.

“This partnership is a wonderful example of how different generations can come together to create something meaningful,” he said.

“Our school captains recently had the opportunitytovisitthelocalmen’sshedto

Dispose

learn about practical skills they wouldn’t get in a typical primary school classroom, while also building invaluable connections with local mentors.”

The project, which involves the construction of a hexagonal gaga pit, to be 4.75m in width (at the widest point), aims to enhance student space on the Kismet site.

Thenewgagapitfortheschoolwillprovide a fun, inclusive space for fast-paced physical activity that boosts confidence, social skills, and readiness for learning.

of your real Christmas

Macedon Ranges residents are able to dispose of their real Christmas trees for free throughout January.

Macedon Ranges council has waived the green waste drop-off fees temporarily for the Christmas tree disposal, with resource recovery facilities at Romsey, Kyneton and Woodend accepting the delivery of pine trees at no cost on weekends in January (including 31 January/1 February) during regular hours of 10am to 4pm.

sion of the kindergarten in the facility. Star Weekly reported the kindergarten service, when completed, will offer 118 places for families living in and around Everly Estate along Sunbury Road.

“This is council saying that we know Sunbury’s growing,” Cr Bell said.

“We know there is going to be demand, there is already demand, but the demand is only going to grow on the community facilities.”

According to its Facebook page, Everly Estate is set to be completed by the first quarter of 2028.

Waterways better protected in west

New protections will be implemented across 17 waterways, including in Melbourne’s north-west.

The state government said the new protections will help conserve natural habitats, safeguard wildlife corridors, and protect the health of creeks and rivers across public and private land.

Under the new rules, landowners will now require a planning permit for certain activities near protected waterways – including removing native vegetation, undertaking significant earthworks, or constructing high or solid fencing – to ensure works properly consider the surrounding landscape and long-term health of rivers and creeks.

Waterways covered by the new protections include Cherry Creek, Darebin Creek, Deep Creek, Edgars Creek, Emu Creek, Gardiners Creek, Jacksons Creek, Koonung Creek, Kororoit Creek, the Maribyrnong River, Merri Creek, Moonee Ponds Creek, Plenty River, Skeleton Creek, Steele Creek, Stony Creek and the Werribee River.

Some waterways, including Moonee Ponds Creek and the Maribyrnong River, already have planning protections in place, which will now be expanded. Others, such as Merri Creek, Darebin Creek and the Plenty River, will be protected for the first time.

The changes also extend Significant Landscape Overlays along the Barwon, Leigh, Moorabool and Yarrowee rivers to support the long-term health of the broader Barwon River System.

Hume Men’s Shed Sunbury project coordinator Peter Hobbs welcomed the project.

“The men’s shed is a place for men to connect, share skills, and look after each other, and this program extends that mateship to the younger generation,” he said.

“When the school captains recently visited us it was fantastic to see the enthusiasm from the students, and it gives our members a great sense of purpose to pass on their knowledge.”

trees free throughout January

Conditions applying to this offer include that trees must be natural (not artificial); be free from any decorations; and have a diameter no larger than 250mm (current large branch criteria for mulching). Charges may still apply for any other applicable waste being disposed of.

Mayor Kate Kendall encouraged the community to take part.

“Some households may have already safely dismantled and disposed of their trees through the green-lidded kerbside

FOGO bin, but for those who haven’t or for those with slightly larger trees, we’re pleased to be able to offer this initiative for the first time to help with Christmas clean-ups,” she said.

Council said its resource recovery facilities also already accept the disposal of a range of items for free, including e-waste, polystyrene, textiles, and soft plastics in support of community-driven efforts to divert as much waste as possible away from landfill.

“From the Werribee River in the west to the Gardiners Creek in the east, our rivers and creeks make our communities greener, cooler and healthier,” Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny said.

“This is about protecting what makes our city such a great place to live today and ensuring future generations can enjoy these special places too.”

More than 1300 members of the public contributed to community consultation on the new protections, while Traditional Owners were also involved, something inner west environment group Maribyrnong Catchment Resilience Association Inc (MCRA) president Madeline Serle, welcomed.

“MCRA supports better protection of the Maribyrnong River (Mirrangbamurn) in collaboration with First Nations,” Ms Serle said.

MCRA was established following the 2022 Maribyrnong River floods and Ms Serle said the new rules would hopefully help prevent a repeat.

Details: https://tinyurl.com/382aa4s5

Charity needs volunteers

Big Group Hug (BGH) is calling for new volunteers this year, to help with an influx of donations.

BGH volunteer manager Francesca Ligabo said she needs extra hands to keep donations moving.

“We always get a lot of donations in the lead up to Christmas and then they just wait there for the new year for volunteers to have the time to go through them,” Ms Ligabo said.

“We have to make sure that the quality control stays very high and therefore many hands and many eyes need to go through each item and make sure that they’re really in good condition.”

Ms Ligabo said there are many roles available for volunteers, with flexible hours.

“There’s various roles in sorting, packing and checking the toys, sending and receiving requests as well as greeting caseworkers and donors at the door.

“You’re welcome to just show up any day… that we are open, any time for any amount of time.

“This distinguishes us from some other organisations that have a strict roster.”

Ms Ligabo said there are also remote roles that volunteers can perform.

“One is becoming a drop off point and thatmeansopeningyourhousetodonors… you arrange a drop off and then take the donations to the warehouse.

“Havingdropoffpointsinthecommunity really helps us collect locally.”

Ms Ligabo said another flexible remote role is to manage BGH’s mailboxes by replying to emails, donor inquiries and social media messages.

You can apply to volunteer at BGH by visiting https://biggrouphug.org/ support-us/volunteer/join-our-volunteerfamily/

Coaches replace trains Macedon Ranges residents should be advised that maintenance works will take place in the evenings on the Bendigo line from Sunday 25 January until Tuesday 27 January, with coaches replacing all evening trains. On 25 January, coaches will replace trains from 8.30pm at Southern Cross and 8pm from Bendigo. On 26 January, coaches will replace trains from 8pm at Southern Cross and 6pm from Bendigo. On 27 January, coaches will replace trains from 8pm at Southern Cross and 7.45pm from Bendigo.

Immunisation sessions

Macedon Ranges council provides free immunisations as set out by the National Immunisation Program. When you attend a council immunisation session you should bring your child’s health book and Medicare details. All children and adults are required to remain at the immunisation venue for at least 15 minutes after receiving any vaccination. The next round of sessions will be held across the shire on Tuesday 20 January. In Riddells Creek, the session will take place from 9.30am to 10.30am at the Riddells Creek Community Centre. In Romsey, it will take place from 11.30am to 12.30pm at the Romsey Community Hub.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

West is best this Midsumma

Midsumma Westside is back again, with plenty of events happening across Melbourne’s western suburbs between 18 January until 8 February. Georgia Tacey dives into all the events happening over the festival, including a chat with First Nations drag artist Cerulean, who is cohosting Blak & Fabulous in Footscray.

Over 22 jam-packed days, Midsumma Westside will take over Melbourne’s western suburbs in one of the biggest celebrations of the LGBTQIA+ community in Victoria.

With 25 events across the west, expect to find performances that move you, exhibitions that inspire and conversations that matter, all falling under this year’s theme of ‘Time and Place’; exploring the past, current and futures of the community, including First Nations voices.

Venues like Pride of Our Footscray are set to host a variety of events, with one of their most popular highlighting an important section of the community.

Blak & Fabulous will bring an intimate evening of performance and discussion featuring drag and variety performers who will share both their talents and stories, in this showcase celebrating LGBTQIA+ First Nations performers.

Cohosted by First Nations (Meriam/ Erub Kebi and Torres Strait Islander) drag artist Cerulean and Kija drag artist and singer 2JOOCEE, a variety of performers will take the stage for a night celebrating culture and community.

Cerulean, a resident performer at Pride of Our Footscray, said they have been involved with the showcase for a number of years, and was excited to host the event for the second time.

Cerulean said this event will not only be a teaching moment, but also a space for the community to celebrate black joy in the queer community, alongside plenty of drag and performance.

“This is a really cute event where we get to discuss being queer and First Nations within Melbourne.

“I feel like there aren’t many (queer) First Nations events around, so it’s really cool to see that Pride of Our Footscray is supporting that.

“I’ve done it for the last few years and every year it’s been amazing. It’s been sold out as well, so make sure to get tickets.”

Cerulean has been heavily involved with Midsumma, performing at some of the biggest events like street party in Melbourne.

“I love the community. I feel like Midsumma is a great time for the queer community to come out together.”

The Melbourne-based artist said Tarsh Jago, a proud Palawa woman and standup comedian and Tharawal and Yorta Yorta artist and dancer Jyden Brailey will also take to the stage for Blak & Fabulous, with more First Nations artists to be announced.

“This is a really cool opportunity to be able to hear First Nations voices within

this space and also to see up and coming First Nations drag artists as well,” Cerulean said.

“We’ve got a new generation of drag artists that are coming through that we hope to see on the night at Blak & Fabulous, so make sure to come down and support them.”

Blak & Fabulous will be coming to Pride of Our Footscray Community Bar from 7pm on Saturday 31 January.

Blak & Fabulous is an 18-plus event, with tickets ranging from $19 to $25.

Find a full list of events at: midsumma. org.au/whats-on/events/queer-westside-studios-session/

Your guide to Midsumma Westside

Stand Out Exhibition, 18 January-8 February, Altona Meadows Skatepark, AltonaMeadows

Presented by Hobsons Bay artist Tara Mathews, this exhibition brings bright colours and their distinctive style, in a display dedicated to queer women and gender-diverse individuals who feel like they don’t fit in.

2099: Messages to Our Queer Future, 20 January- 4 February, Louis Joel Gallery,Altona

This exhibition invites artists, creatives and makers of all ages to create a love let-

ter, in any medium, to the future of queer community, exploring the hopes of queer liberation in the future and showcases a time capsule of the unique intricacies of queer culture today, curated by The Artist Known as Foot.

Stories for All Seasons, 20 -21 January, 100StoryBuilding,Footscray

Open for LGBTQIA+ teens aged 12 to 17, these creative writing workshops offer fun writing exercises, creative activities and guidance from experienced facilitators. Participants will develop confidence, explore identity and connect with like-minded peers.

Queer Comedy Gala, 7pm on 22 January, Pride of Our Footscray CommunityBar,Footscray

The gala features a stacked line-up of seven LGBTQIA+ comedians ready to make you laugh, hosted by the iconic MC Dolly Diamond and Reuben Kaye.

All Star Pride Drag Bingo, 7pm on 23 January, Pride of Our Footscray CommunityBar,Footscray

Join four fabulous drag hosts for an evening of fun bingo games, camp drag shows, comedy, cocktails, prizes and much more. Balls drop 7.30pm sharp, so please ensure you arrive with plenty of time before the show starts.

Pride Pool Party, 10am on 24 January, SunshineLeisureCentre,Sunshine Celebrate Brimbank’s vibrant LGBTQIA+ community with a fun day out in Sunshine, featuring activities, inflatable slides for the little ones, live music, catering and much more in this inclusive event.

Save the Bears!, 6.30pm, 28 January, PrideofOurFootscrayCommunityBar, Footscray

‘Save the Bears!’ is the pilot episode of a new animated show Summontown by Jimmy Twin, inspired by fantasy role-playing games and 1980s sitcoms. Come and have a drink while viewing the pilot episode, followed by a Q&A. A small exhibition of concept artwork and select artworks by Twin will also be on display.

Queer Westside Studios Session, 5pm, 5 February, Newport Community Hub, Newport Open for LGBTQIA+ youth aged between 15 and 24 years, this special Midsumma Edition of Westside Open Studios is a chance to create, connect and chill in a fun and supportive space. Youth can hop on the mic, jam with others, perform for peers or just catch a set.

The Self Possessed, 5 -7 February, BluestoneChurchArtsSpace,Footscray The Self Possessed is a showcase of performance and vocal repertoire from over three centuries, featuring works written by Handel, Gluck, Scarlatti, Gilbert and Sullivan, Noel Coward, and Billie Eilish.

Snuff Salooon, 6-7 February, Footscray DrillHall,Footscray

Step into the shadowy heart of Snuf Puppets’ workshop turned salooon, where spectacle descends into fun chaos. The first half of the night unleashes chaos: queer performance art, live music, puppet shows that shouldn’t be left unsupervised. Loud DJ music takes over and the whole room transforms – giant puppets loom over the dance floor, live drawings flicker overhead like transmissions from another dimension. Sprawl on huge beanbags, let the Saloonatic cocktails flow, and become one with the spectacle.

Cornish Grange, a warm and welcoming retirement village set among beautifully maintained gardens in leafy Sunbury.

With a friendly community and a range of social activities, there’s always something to enjoy – from the popular bowling green and card games to special events and happy hour.

Choose from a selection of pet-friendly^ 2-bed and 2-bed-plus-study villas, designed for a low-maintenance lifestyle.

With gardening and maintenance taken care of, you’ll have more time to relax and make the most of the community’s facilities, connect with friends, and enjoy your surroundings

MY PLACE

Georgia Tacey caught up with Macedon and Mount Macedon Landcare president Kate Lawrence to hear about her love of Macedon and everything that happens with one of the Ranges’ youngest landcare groups.

What’s your connection to the Macedon Ranges?

I have lived in Macedon for over 20 years, and also regularly visited Woodend when I was child.

What do you like about where you live?

It’s green and spacious and quiet. There are wonderful places to walk, we have a community theatre and pickleball and Landcare! The community is wonderful and we are a train ride from all that a big city has to offer.

Tell us a bit about Macedon and Mount Macedon Landcare and what you enjoy most about volunteering there.

Our Landcare group is young (only three years old) and we have lots of energy and enthusiasm. We have an excellent committeeculture,greatideasandabroad range of skills and interests. We are slowly building a local Landcare community and doing projects that are starting to have an impact we can see. It’s satisfying to be part of a group learning about and imagining a better future for our local flora and fauna.

Why did you decide to join the Landcare group?

The thing I love most about where I live is the beauty and peace of the natural world. Coming a close second is a sense of community and civic participationput the two together and voila! I joined Landcare.

What sort of projects do you do with the Landcare group?

We have a combination of on the ground environmental restoration projects as well as community education and advocacy work.Wehavechosenwaterwaysasafocus and have several projects focussed on regenerating the creeks that run through

I don’t get there as often as I would like, but sitting on the rocks at Camel’s

at

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

35 years ago

15 January, 1991

Four leading Victorian bodies involved inhousingandlocalgovernmentwanta meeting with the Premier, Joan Kirner, to discuss ways of making developers pay the high cost of providing services needed by residents of new housing developments.

20 years ago

17 January, 2006

A popular policeman from Sunbury was among six Australians killed in a bus crash in Egypt last Wednesday.

is one of life’s great pleasures. I

was there recently and the spread of the

or

15 years ago

18 January, 2011

Sunbury CFA is celebrating a milestone – its centenary. Community events will be held throughout the year to recognise the service of the brigade’s past and present members.

10 years ago

19 January, 2016

Tourism experts say more accommodationoptionsandseven-day operators are needed to ensure the Macedon Ranges reap the full benefits of a visitor boom.

Discovering Dunedin

By Kylie Mitchell-Smith TRAVEL WRITER/ PODCASTER www.travellingsenorita.com

HAVING explored the tourist meccas of the South Island of New Zealand (Queenstown and Christchurch) I thought it was time to venture further afield and head to the more hidden gem that is Dunedin in the SoutheasternregionofOtago.

Dunedin often likened to a mini-Edinburgh (the Edinburgh of the south), complete with Scottish vibes, the four seasons in one day weather and even it’s own castle. And that was our first stop on our ‘Discover Dunedin’ itineraryLarnach Castle perched high in the hills above Otago Harbour.

The surrounding Peninsula is a hilly slither of volcanic land, abundant in flora and fauna – a place to see Sea Lions and Penguins and one of the few accessible places where Albatross nest.

Larnach Castle is like stepping back in time and swapping hemispheres. Commissioned in 1871 by local character William Larnach, the castle is a gothic masterpiece with plenty of stories to tell. The property was derelict for quite some time after William’s passing with a New Zealand couple - the Barkers – buying it in 1967 and bringing it back to life.

Thelibraryanddininghallhostlongtable dinners showcasing all the South Island has to offer. While the tastefully decorated stable and lodge accommodation offers breathtaking views across the harbour. There’s also a garden cafe and exquisite groundstowandermakingthecastleatrue ode to the past.

Following our tour we check into Distinction - a downtown hotel in the centre of the city before we head out again to admire the colourful murals that adorn the streets. We wander the high street and devour a classic cheese roll at Good Oil Cafe, a locals juice at Buster Greens and a hearty pub meal at Speights Ale House. We are getting the sense that this city is all

about bakeries and breweries.

The next day we plan a trip on the Taieri Gorge Train. The train leaves from the Dunedin Railway Station – one of the city’s most prominent landmarks. Built in 1906 it’s famed for its renaissance architecture. The train takes us across Otago’s sweeping countryside, with towering viaducts and the gushing Taieri River below-while the onboard storyteller recounts tales of a gold rush era.

As the sun sets over Otago Harbour, we take a short trip to the surf beaches, stopping at St Clair for Cocktails at Piccolo, Pasta at the Esplanade and Dessert at Sorello-housed in an iconic beachfront location. We stroll along the promenade and admire the locals as they brave the newly opened (heated) saltwater pools.

The next day we jump on our trusty e-bikes and take on the newly opened bike and pedestrian path that follows the harbour to Port Chalmers, a quaint port town. From there we book a water (bike) taxiacrosstheharbourtoprettyPortobello, passing Quarantine and Goat Island along

the way.

Lunch is served at the local Portobello Pub, fresh Blue Cod and chips washed down with a local Speights ale and Central Otago wine, which really hit the spot. After lunch we cycle up the road to a new farm gate cafe, Augustine, for the tastiest of sconeswithlashingsofberryjamandlocal cream.

We take in the sights of the University of Otago - billed as a leader in education it ranks in the top 200 Universities in the world. There’s a vibrant student population living on the outskirts which has attracted cafes like Strictly Coffee - a roaster with one of the best brews around.

We take a bespoke tour to the tip of the Otago Peninsula with local guides, ClearwaterWildlifeTours.Walkingthrough a working farm to the rugged clifftops and pristine beach of Cape Saunders, spotting sealions and yellow-eyed penguins along the way.

A trip to Dunedin isn’t complete without a visit to the Otago Farmers Markets, held each Saturday in the carpark adjacent to

therailwaystation.WetasteDunedinCraft Distillers Gin made from bread scraps and sample a delicious Short Black chocolate from local makers Ocho (Otago Chocolate Company).

Rug up and discover the delights of Dunedin, it’s the ideal stopover to explore the South Island, with direct flights from the East Coast it’s fast becoming the next ‘go to’ New Zealand destination. EAT-

LarnachCastledining

PortobelloHotel

• PiccoloStClair

• NobleDunedin PLAY-

• Speight’sbrewerytour

• ClearWaterWildlifeTours TairiGorgeTrain

OtagoFarmersMarket STAY-

• LarnachLodge

• DistinctionHotel

Iconic Experiences, Expertly Escorted

Full day Barossa Valley tour with lunch and wine tastings including: Saltram wine estate, lunch and wine tasting at Lambert Estate, visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company, photo stop at Menglers Hill Lookout, vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor centre, stop at Beerenberg Farm, and free time in Hahndorf to explore the historic German settlement

Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, and Flinders Chase

National Park

Full-Board River Elegance

3 night Murray River cruise on board PS Murray

Princess with all meals and sightseeing

Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse

Guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat

Taste Riverland food and wine

Dragon-Fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour

Hand-Picked Hotel Stays

3 nights four-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast

1 night four-star hotel stay in Kangaroo Island with breakfast, lunch and dinner

2 day Kangaroo Island tour including: Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, Clifford’s Honey Farm, In-Flight Birds of Prey Display at Raptor Domain, Seal Bay Conservation Park guided beach walk, lunch at Emu Bay Lavender Farm,

All Flights, Taxes & Transfers

Army Duck tour of the rainforest

wine and dine service and entertainment Iconic Experiences, Expertly Escorted Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway tour including^: Kuranda Village, Rainforestation Nature Park, Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience, Tropical Fruit Orchard, Dreamtime Walk, Koala and Wildlife Park, and Amphibious

‘Reef Magic’ Great Barrier Reef cruise, including: Airconditioned catamaran transfers, 4 hours of reef time, marine life touch tank, underwater observatory, and fish feeding presentations

Hand-Picked Hotel Stays

1 night four-star hotel stay in Brisbane at the Amora Hotel Brisbane

5 night four-star hotel stay in Cairns at the Crystalbrook Bailey

All hotel stays include breakfast

All Flights & Taxes

EUROPEAN SOJOURN

Amsterdam

From

GRAND EUROPEAN TOUR

Budapest to Amsterdam or vice versa

15 DAYS • 4 COUNTRIES • 12 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL • MAR-NOV 2026; APR-NOV 2027; MAY-DEC 2028

From $8,895pp in Standard Stateroom From $12,995pp in Veranda Stateroom

PASSAGE TO EASTERN EUROPE

Budapest to Bucharest or vice versa

11 DAYS • 5 COUNTRIES • 8 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL • MAR-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027; MAR-NOV 2028

From $7,195pp in Standard Stateroom From $9,095pp in Veranda Stateroom

Splashing into holiday fun

Sunbury and Macedon Ranges families are making the most of the summer holidays with plenty of trips to the pool. On Tuesday 13 January, Sunbury Aquatic and Leisure Centre and Gisborne Aquatic

Centre both brought in inflatable courses to their pools for kids to climb, slip and slide. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic came along to capture all the summer fun.

PUZZLES

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.

Elicit (5)

Accept reluctantly (9)

Gather piecemeal (5)

Talents (9)

Tollway (8)

Lifts balloon (3,3) 16 Help (6) 18 Emblem of Islam (8) 23 Relating to the body (9)

Low woody plant (5)

Hosiery (9)

Person of English ancestry (5)

Astonishment (8)

At one (6)

Stubborn (9)

8 Sideboard (7)

10 Startled, disconcerted (5)

14 Storage tank (9)

16 Charges (7)

17 Cue sport (7)

19 Guidelines (5)

20 Support (7)

21 Forbidden (7)

22 Sport (6)

25 Just (5)

1 What is the capital of the Bahamas?

2 Who played Samuel ‘Sam’ Loomis in the 1998 remake of Psycho?

Who won the 2009 Brazilian Grand Prix?

What was the name of Julia Roberts’ (pictured) character in the film Pretty Woman?

The MacDonnell Ranges are in which Australian state or territory?

6 Who wrote the 2009 novel Wolf Hall?

7 A waltz is usually danced in what time signature?

9 Which chemical element has the symbol Y?

In Japan, what does the word ‘seiyuu’ refer to?

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

Malmsbury Town Hall Flea Market

Sunday 25 January from 9am-2pm. There will be heaps of interesting stalls in air-conditioned comfort. Cathy can help you with booking a stall or guiding you to our venue.

Cathy 0409 794 386

Scottish Country Dancing Group

The Macedon Ranges Scottish Country Dancing Group meets every Thursday, 1pm to 3pm, at Buffalo Stadium, Woodend. The dancing involves social country dancing, not the highland dancing many people think of. The group dance in sets, learning different steps and formations – no special clothes needed, just soft flat shoes. The group are a friendly group having fun and keeping fit at the same time. You don’t need to bring a partner, just a smile and sense of fun. Lynne, 0417 331 439 or Norm, 0408 592 609

CWA Sunbury

CWA Sunbury meets second and fourth Mondays at St Mary’s Church in O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury. All women are welcome, bring your grandchildren if you are caring for them, there is a playground available.

Bev Goodman 0402 988 954

With One Voice Sunbury

The WOV Sunbury community choir is changing the world one voice at a time by providing an opportunity for people to meet and experience the joy of singing, often making friends through the shared experiences of singing and performing; although performing is not required. One Voice Sunbury community choir rehearses each Tuesday, from 6.30pm, at Goonawarra Neighbourhood House. A fun and welcoming choir, new members are welcome – just join in on the fun. sunbury@withonevoice.org.au

Neighbourhood garden

Become part of Sunbury’s Neighbourhood Garden and grow edible and useful plants in a social group at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. All skill sets are welcome. www.sunburyhouse.com.au or 9740 6978

Malmsbury Farmers and Makers

Market

Locals and people from afar get along to this wonderful Farmers Market. Always the third Sunday of the month….fresh produce, wine, hot food, coffee, plants, artisan foods and crafts that are special. Musical entertainment whilst you shop and catch up with friends. Located at the picturesque Malmsbury Cricket Ground from 9am-1pm. Amy 0423 726 695

Messy Play in Sunbury

Join in the Messy Play fun with this toddler-focussed program, including messy and sensory child-led play. The program will run from 10–11.30am on Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays. www.sunburyhouse.com.au or 9740 6978

Young Voices of Macedon

A community choir for children of the Macedon Ranges and beyond, Young Voices of Macedon rehearses at the House of the Rock, 247 Station Road, New Gisborne..The choir has separate programs for young children aged five to eight and older children. Rehearsals assist children in developing vocal technique, part singing skills, and general musicianship, across popular, classical, folk and music theatre styles. Rehearsals run on Thursdays, from 4.15pm, with afternoon tea and play time. yvmacedon.org.au

Yoga in Sunbury

Yoga classes at Sunbury Neighbourhood House focus on supporting participants to slow down and move well. Special attention is given to mindful awareness of movement that builds strength in a healthy and safe way, Monday and Friday mornings.

www.sunburyhouse.com.au or 9740 6978

Hume Men’s Shed

The Hume Men’s 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

Macedon Ranges Photographic Society Are you into photography, just starting out, or a fully fledged professional? The Macedon Ranges Photographic Society is your local camera club for friendship, photographic outings, workshops, guest presenters, competitions and more. Come along to a meeting on the first and second Monday of the month. Doors open at 7pm and the meeting starts at 7.30pm at Jubilee Hall, 52 Smith St Macedon. www.macedon-ranges-photography.org. au, or info@macedon-ranges-photography. org.au

Insync Entertainment

Insync Entertainment is an all-female community choir, providing the opportunity to meet others who enjoy singing. The group is seeking new members to join the friendly choir. No auditions required. They rehearse at the Sunbury Baptist Church Hall every Monday from 7.15–9.30pm.

insyncentertainment@gmail.com

Sunbury Seniors

Sunbury Seniors meets on Mondays and Fridays from 10am to 2.30pm [except Public Holidays]. The Club has returned to its original location now that the Sunbury Seniors Hub, 8 Oshanassy Street, Sunbury has been rebuilt. From 19 January 2026, a variety of activities will be offered including carpet bowls, cards, pool, jigsaw puzzles, board games, darts, table tennis, monthly guest speakers and outings and subsidised lunches or just a cuppa and a chat.

www.sunburyseniors.com.au or 0434 400 754

Pernaperna Women’s Group

The group is currently knitting and crocheting blankets for First Nations peoples in palliative care across Australia. Pernaperna is a friendly group who meet fortnightly at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury, on a Thursday, from 1-3pm. It has established a bush tucker garden at Sunbury Neighbourhood House. New members welcomed. If you don’t knit or garden but would just like to drop in for a chat, the group would love to meet you.

Joan, 0418 302 676

Jacksons Creek Combined Probus

The club meets on the second Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 10am. This friendly group of men and women enjoy outings and meetings each month and twice yearly trips away staying in cabins and caravans. Visitors and new members are warmly welcomed 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

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

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 Golf Club. All women are welcome. cwawoodendeves@gmail.com

Sunbury Badminton Club

The Sunbury Badminton Club plays social games on Tuesdays and Wednesdays nights, from 7.30-9.30 pm, and on Wednesdays, 10am-noon. Monday night is a round robin competition from 7.30-9.30pm. All are welcome to attend at Clarke Oval Stadium, 49 Riddell Road. sunburybc@gmail.com

Sunbury Ladies’ Badminton Club

Are recruiting! Come along and enjoy the benefits of physical activity combined with social connectedness. Social and competition games are played every Thursday morning (excl. Public / School Holidays) from 9.30am to noon at the Eric Boardman Stadium, Wilsons Lane, Sunbury. All skill levels are welcomed. Enquiries: sunburylbc@gmail.com

Every hall has a story

Valentine’s Day. Many will spend it over a candlelit dinner or a romantic movie.

If that is not the style for you or your beloved, then why not head down the highway and learn a little about Little River.

Damian Callinan will be delivering his show Hall Stories with his trademark irreverence and cheek.

The celebrated actor, comedian, and creator of the hit Netflix film The Merger will combine his storytelling skills and

stand-up knack to pull back the curtain on his own tour stories.

At the same time, he examines the quirks, traditions, and characters of Australian halls and meeting places.

In this particular show, Callinan will also spend time with the local community to delve into the history and characters of the Little River Mechanics Institute Hall, and the role that it plays in the broader community.

As well as the show, he will later deliver a podcast to document the story of the Little River Mechanics Institute Hall.

There is barely a bakery in regional Australia that hasn’t had one of Damian Callinan’s show posters blu-tacked to its window– and it will be him at his absolute peak in what you could call a comfort zone.

Hall Stories is Callinan doing what he does best, where he does it best.

He knows how to talk over a bubbling

Start your engines, Bacchus Marsh

Get set for engines to roar and propellers to spin as Bacchus Marsh Wings, Wheels, and Coffee returns for 2026, promising a high-octane day where horsepower meets skypower.

Taking off on Sunday 1 February, the much-loved and jam-packed event will run from 9am to 4pm at the Bacchus Marsh Airfield on Cummings Road, Parwan, transforming the tarmac into a playground for motoring and aviation fans alike.

This open event welcomes all motor-

sport enthusiasts, showcasing an impressive mix of classic and modern cars, bikes and aircraft.

Whether you prefer your machines hugging the road or dancing through the clouds, there’s plenty to keep you grounded in excitement, and occasionally looking straight up.

One of the biggest drawcards is the aerobatic and classic aircraft flying displays, with some of Australia’s top pilots set to put on a show that’s sure to be plane awesome. On the ground, car builders

and enthusiasts will roll in with machines polished to perfection, offering spectators plenty of chrome, curves and craftsmanship to admire.

It’s not just for rev-heads and aviation tragics. The family-friendly day promises food trucks, activities for kids, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it easy to park yourself for hours. All car and aviation clubs are welcome, with a simple invitation: drive in or fly in.

Entry is $15 per vehicle or aircraft.

Clotheslined to clobber Footscray on Australia Day weekend

Inner-west punters should prepare to get well and truly cleaned-up and checked for concussion when five of Melbourne’s toughest and hardest bands take over Footscray this Australia Day weekend.

Headlined by the appropriately named, Clotheslined, the night of ferocious, no-frills rock takes place at Mama Chens on Saturday 24 January.

Renowned for blistering live shows, metallic hardcore lords, Clotheslined, top the five-band bill, and if the four bands coming before don’t knock you out, the Melbourne

four-piece surely will.

Helping them to kick-off the long-weekend will be local young guns Blackbird, who’ll be keen to demonstrate why their considered one of the best early-2000’s metalcore revival bands around.

If hardcore punk is more your go, Lockjaw, will have you covered with tracks from the recent self-titled demo.

Local bands also get a look in, with Footscray’s own, Knifepoint, bringing their heavily New York influenced hardcore to the inner-west.

urn; wind up when the Country Women’s Association heads into the supper room, and stack the chairs in fives at the end of the night.

This gig is better for mature audiences as it may contain coarse language and adult themes.

The show starts at 7.30pm on 14 February, and runs for 90 minutes with no interval.

Summertime Fling is back in the Macedon Ranges.

Wine is set to flow all summer long

Summertime Fling is in full swing across Macedon Ranges wineries. Happening across January weekends in the Macedon Ranges, wineries across the regions are opening up their cellar doors in a month-long celebration of wine, food and summer.

Each weekend offers its own flavour, with a rotating line-up of cellar door experiences, from long lunches, tasting flights, winemaker chats, live tunes and lazy afternoons, with events perfect for the whole family as well.

On Friday 23 January, Lyons Will Estate in Lancefield will host Aperitivo Fridays, bringing you a slice of Italy right at home, while Paramoor Winery in Carlsruhe for their weekly summer feature on Friday nights.

On Saturday 24 January, head down to Wombat Forest Vineyard in Denver for an unforgettable afternoon for Music Amongst the Barrels. Bring the family along for award-winning wines, live local music, lawn games and more. Or you can head to Curly Flat in Lancefield taste some Carly Flat Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from 2000-2023 in different size bottles, with two tasting sessions running on the day.

On Sunday 25 January, enjoy a Mongolian Summer BBQ at Lyons Will Estate in Lancefield, with Charles from Gaea restaurant in Fitzroy. Charles will be cooking up a three-course modern Mongolian style BBQ for lunch, featuring home raised lamb from Lyons Will. Expect smokey, morish and fun dishes with Mongolian spirit, with lunch served alongside newly released Lyons Will wines.

And opening the night with a thump will be the so-called ‘westside beatdown crew’ Destroyed, with pit-inducing tracks such as their current single ‘Gambler.’

Don’t be fooled by the name though. The local four-piece sound nothing like Kenny Rogers.

The mayhem begins at 7pm and entry is free.

Mama Chens is located at 42 Albert Street, Footscray.

Details: https://mammachens.com. au/26-01-24-clotheslined/

Also on Saturday, Flying Pigeon will return to Hesket Estate with an Asian inspired lunch, and The Yatchski Brothers will take over Kyneton Ridge for a special live performance alongside the launch of Kyneton Ridge’s 2025 Skipping Rabbit Pinot Noir and a 70s menu by Ridge Cafe. Summertime Fling will be happening across the Macedon Ranges until Saturday 31 January.

Tickets and details: macedonrangeswine.com.au/summertime-fling

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Actress Lila McGuire portrays which retired Australian tennis legend in a 2026 mini-series?

2. Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young was recently traded to which NBA team?

3. Which Belarusian tennis pro won the women’s singles title at the 2026 Brisbane International?

4. Jessica Hull, Oliver Hoare, Linden Hall and Jack Anstey won World Cross Country Championships gold in which event?

5. Which Russian tennis pro won the men’s singles title at the 2026 Brisbane International?

6. Brazilian professional soccer player Gabriel Martinelli last played for which Premier League

Australian freestyle skier Laura Peel won which women’s aerials medal at the recent World Cup event at Lac-Beauport, Canada?

Which former Socceroo is head coach of the Australian men’s national under-23 soccer

Which country’s premier baseball league is home to teams including the Carp, Swallows, Fighters and Buffaloes?

Lachie Neale last captained which AFL

11. In which two Australian cities are United Cup tennis matches held?

12. Which NBA team holds the regular-season record with 73 wins and only nine losses?

13. Former Rabbitohs player Keaon Koloamatangi recently signed a fiveyear deal with which NRL team?

14. Seventeen-year-old tennis star Emerson Jones hails from which Australian city?

15. Which Aussie tennis player partnered with Nick Kyrgios during the Brisbane International doubles tournament?

16. Spanning 428 weeks, which men’s tennis player has spent the longest amount of time ranked as world No.1?

17. The recently built NBA arena, Intuit Dome, is the home of which team?

18. Which English Test cricketer was fined $60,000 following an incident at a Wellington nightclub last October?

19. True or false: Major League Baseball stadiums all vary in size and shape?

20. Starring Timothée Chalamet, the 2025 film MartySupreme centres around which sport?

21. Sacramento and Los Angeles teams in the NBA and the NHL respectively share which nickname?

22. How many red balls are there in a game of snooker?

23. And how many colour balls?

24. Which sport is the focus of the 1986 movie Youngblood and its 2026 remake?

25. On a tenpin bowling scorecard, what does a circled number mean?

26. What are the names of the two pieces that slot together to make up the majority of a dart?

27. Which stadium was formerly known as Telstra Dome?

28. Matthew Wade and Brad Haddin are both known for what sporting role?

29. In which year was the first FIFA video game released?

30. And since then, which FIFA release has sold the most copies?

The BYD Shark is coming

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

It’s BYD’s Shark and it’s coming for you.

At least it is if you’re in the market for a ute because the Shark, or Shark 6 to be exact, has been a runaway success for the Chinese company.

BYDhassoldmorethan10,000examples of the dual cab utility since launch 12 months ago and just to set the record straight, it’s not an electric vehicle - but rather a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).

That makes the Shark rather special but not quite unique with competitors such as the Ford Ranger and GWM Cannon Alpha which also come as PHEVs.

STYLING

There’s just the one grade offered, priced from $57,900 plus on-road costs. Premium paint adds $700.

Although the styling breaks no new ground, it’s a good-looking bus, especially at night with its full width LED light arrays front and back.

Interestingly, when you see one behind you in the traffic, it’s difficult to make out the brand because the BYD lettering is reversed in the mirror.

LOL.

Standard kit includes artificial leather trim, dual zone climate air with rear vents, a leather-cladsteeringwheelandpower-adjust frontseatsthatareheatedandcooled.

There’s also side steps, 18-inch alloys, head-up display, adaptive cruise control, auto high beam, traffic sign recognition, blingy LED head and tail lights, auto-dimming interior mirror, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry and start, front and rear parking sensors.

Sharkiscoveredbyasix-year/150,000km warranty.

A separate eight-year warranty is offered on the battery, along with roadside assistance for the duration.

INFOTAINMENT

Infotainment centres on a huge 15.6-inch centre touchscreen, with a separate 10.25-inch digital instrument.

There’s Bluetooth, voice control, FM and DAB+ digital radio, built-in navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as a 12-speaker Dynaudio sound.

The cameras and navigation look great on the big screen, but the computer voice that delivers the directions is diabolical, almost unintelligible at times.

The directions are also a bit hit and miss, sometimes warning you not to take turn outsandatothertimescompletelyignoring side roads.

USB A + C ports are provided front and back, along with wireless phone charging and over-the-air updates.

It also has vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, with three power plugs in the tray and another three-pin plug in the cabin.

SAFETY

Shark gets a full five stars for safety from the ANCAP organisation.

Seven airbags, including a centre airbag are standard, plus reversing and 360-degree cameras and auto braking are standard (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User, Junction & Crossing, Backover and Head-On).

There’s also a lane support system, with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and an advanced speed assistance system (SAS).

Two ISOFix and top tether child seat anchors are supplied, but it’s a juggling act to fit the tether to the rear anchor.

ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS

The hybrid system consists of a 1.5-litre

turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, together with electric motors for the front and rear axles and a 30 kWh battery.

Combined output is an impressive 321kW of power and 650Nm of torque, with drivetoallfourwheelsviaareductionstyle one-speed automatic transmission.

DRIVING

Shark is 5457mm long with a 3260mm wheelbase, which makes it longer than Ranger.

It weighs a hefty 2710kg, with a big 13.5 metre turning circle, ground clearance of 230mm and a wading depth of 700mm.

Tow capacity falls well short of the mark at 2500kg, while the load capacity is cited at 790kg.

The cabin has an upmarket feel, with artificial leather trim, contrast stitching and bright, metallic orange garnishes.

The seats are reasonably comfortable and rear legroom is good, with aircon outlets for rear seat passengers.

The rear seat flips forward to provide access to child seat tether points, but it is almost impossible to pull the webbing taut to make it secure.

There’s USB A and C ports front and back, with a 12 volt outlet front and a 240 voltoutletintheback-pluswirelessphone charging.

The Shark’s hybrid system is a bit of a mixed bag, operating in both series and parallel modes.

Below 70km/h it operates in electric only mode, above this speed the petrol engine kicks in to provide extra grunt to the front wheels.

Like the Nissan e-Power system the petrol engine acts as a range extender, recharging the battery on the go - up to a point.

Shark is surprisingly quick off the mark, with the dash from 0-100km/h taking only 5.7 seconds.

Drive modes include Normal, Eco and Sport, along with the addition of Mud, Sand, Snow and Mountain all-terrain options (not sure what Mountain is all about).

In Eco mode the rear electric motor basically shuts down.

With a 60-litre tank range is a combined 800km, or it can travel up to 80km on electric power alone.

Like most plug-in hybrids it has claimed fuel consumption of 2.0L/100km.

Energy or power consumption is rated at 21.2 kWh/100km.

But this low fuel consumption figure is entirely dependent on the support of the battery, which in effect means stopping and recharging the vehicle every 100km.

The battery takes its charge from the

petrol engine, as well as regenerative braking and of course when it is actually plugged into a wall charger.

That makes it a fairly clever system.

Around town it operates mainly in electric mode, which makes the ute quick and quiet.

But without electrical assistance, fuel consumption will revert to that of a conventional petrol vehicle.

We didn’t have the time or necessary access to recharge the battery. As such we were getting 6.8L/100km after just over 600km of driving, but that’s still pretty good for a vehicle this size.

We’renotsurewhythere’saneedforsuch a big touchscreen? Sure, it’s a selling point, but at 15.6 inches the one in the Shark is almost too big.

The screen rotates between portrait and landscape, but Android Auto and we presume Apple CarPlay doesn’t work in portrait mode.

Nor will you be able to see it in this mode if you are wearing polarised sunglasses.

Asmaller,separate10.25-inchscreensits in front of the driver.

Voice control implies that Big Brother is listening and listening indeed it was as we discovered.

We were discussing travel plans and maybe the Cook Islands while driving alongthemotorwaywhenGooglesuddenly piped up, declaring that it could help us with these plans - or words to that effect.

OMG?

Therearephysicalrollervolumecontrols, on the wheel and in the centre console, but for temperature control you have to access the screen.

The Shark impresses with its strong off the mark performance and lack of background cabin noise.

We can imagine passengers turning and saying: ‘Wow. This is all right. How much is it, again?’

It’s not until you get the ute out of town and on to some rougher roads that its poorlysortedsuspensioncomestothefore.

The setup features double wishbones and coil springs front and rear, promising better on-road performance.

But it’s jittery, juddery and crashes over larger bumps in the road.

The Tasman feels like a magic carpet in comparison.

The brakes are ventilated disc front and back and sophisticated for a ute.

They slow the vehicle smoothly, but tend to jerk it to a stop right at the end - it’s quite annoying.

Off-road?That’sanotherstoryaltogether.

Although Shark is all-wheel drive, it’s an unusual setup without the option of low range.

RATINGS

Looks: 7.5

Performance: 7.5

Safety: 7.5

Thirst: 7.5

Practicality: 7.5

Comfort: 7

Tech: 7.5

Value: 8

Overall: 7.5

The Dual Mode Off-Road (DMO) system is designed to provide a balance of power, efficiency and off-road capability, making it suitable for diverse driving conditions. Sure, it turns all four wheels, but without low range any physical connection between the front and rear wheels, there’s no apportioning of torque between the front and rear wheels (nor side to side for that matter).

So, despite the requisite ground clearance and approach/departure angles, this will be a limiting factor off road, with lots of wheel spin and a lack of forward progress.

A lack of suspension travel and what are basically Continental road tyres won’t be any help either.

Long story short, we wouldn’t be planninganymajoroff-roadexpeditionsin this vehicle.

The tub has a liner, but does not come with a tonneau, not just to cover the load buttokeepoutairturbulencefromcreating drag (which drives up fuel consumption).

A basic tonneau is $1162, a sports bar $1382 or a bullbar $3892.

There are six tie-down points, rear tray lights, and a damped tailgate, with three household power outlets for accessories. Afull-sizesparewheelisfittedasstandard.

SUMMING UP

It’shardtogetpastthepriceandimpressive levels of equipment offered by the Shark. It’s a looker too, although we’d gladly dispense with the glitzy, brightly coloured interior trim.

But does the touchscreen really need to be that big? You could attach a keyboard and call it a laptop for God’s sake?

Our main gripe however concerns the woeful ride quality.

There’splentyofshudderandshake,even on relatively smooth, well-formed roads. And without low range and any differential locks, Shark is going to be a bit of a show pony off-road.

Guys, the suspension really needs some work.

Summer sport heats up

Brothers hitting the mark

By Tara Murray

Two Gisborne brothers have been having a ball as they represented Central Victoria at the 2026 National Club Futsal Championships in Sydney.

The competition is Australia’s biggest club futsal event, held every January in Sydney with more than 2000 players competing.

For many participants, it’s a once-ina-lifetime opportunity to represent their state, and potentially Australia in future international competitions.

Cooper and Ollie Brennan both enjoyed the opportunity to spend plenty of time on the court.

Both boys were selected for the Central Victorian State Team through the Austra-

lian Futsal Association.

Twelve-year-old Cooper scored three goals for his side, while eight-year-old Ollie scored one.

“I competed in a big tournament last year in Brisbane, so I knew what to expect this time,” Cooper said.

“I was really happy to be picked again and to meet some new teammates.

“It was so good. Playing in front of so many people was exciting and the whole competition was a banger.“

For Ollie it was his first tournament.

“I was so excited to be picked for the team,“ he said. “I felt so happy and it was cool to see teams from other states.

“It was even better than I thought. Even though it was a busy week, I got to spend

lots of time with my friends in my team.”

Cooper started playing futsal last year when he went to a new school.

“My friend invited me to join his team,” he said. “I play at Macedon Ranges Futsal every Thursday night.”

Like many families, Ollie did what his brother did and started playing as well.

“Now I want to play every day.”

It was a family affair in Sydney with their parents involved as team managers and with coaching.

Both boys said it was pretty cool to have their parents there and on the bench.

“My mum and dad were good team managers and took care of all the kids,“ said Ollie.

“It was fun having them on the bench

Roar’s batting on show as the runs flow

By Tara Murray

Sunbury produced its highest score in nearly two years as it moved into the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Steve McNamara Shield top four.

The Roar have started to get on a roll and have continued that into the new year across the first two weeks against West Newport.

After bowling the Lions out for 165 the Roar resumed on 1-37 on Saturday.

The Roar chased down the total with five wickets in hand.

It went on to make 237 before being bowled out in the 64th over.

The score is the Roar’s highest total since 10 February in 2024.

The Roar’s Marty Kelders said it was a really good performance with the bat.

“It was a good all-round performance,” he said.

“Ethan Connelly batted really strongly at the top of the order and just missed out on a 50.

“Mass [Indika Massalage] had a chance early but took advantage of it and went on to make a solid 88.

“We’re proud of the effort from the team.”

Kelders said the recent performances come down to the leadership of skipper Jason McGann and the team wanting to play for each other.

“It’s a joy to watch this year,” he said. “We’ve always been a bowling team rather than a batting team.

“We’ve been able to chase runs down all season.”

West Newport went back out for a second innings and finished the day at 2-75.

Kelders said the Lions batted well and late in the match shut up shop to make sure they didn’t lose outright.

“The guys had a bit of a crack but after that decided to have a bit of fun,” he said.

“We gave a few guys who don’t bowl a lot a bit of a go.

“We were able to gain something out of it.”

with me. I didn’t get to watch any of my brothers games but I saw lots of videos and photos.“

Cooper added, “my mum is a really good organiser and my dad is good at helping with coaching, so I like having them there.“

The two are now hoping this is just the beginning when it comes to futsal.

“I really really want to play in the big tournaments again later this year and I’m joining Futsal Academy so I can learn more skills,” Ollie said.

Cooper added, “I’m joining a Futsal Academy this year and really hope to get selected for an international tour.”

Resolve Finance Caroline Springs sponsored the two boys to help get them to Sydney.

GDCA women’s squad revealed

The Gisborne and District Cricket Association has announced its women’s representative side.

The side will face off against other regions, with some of the best players from both competitions to step out and represent the association.

The women’s side will play two games in February, the first against Castlemaine District on 4 February and the second against Ballarat Cricket Association on 11 February.

It’s the second season the GDCA has had women’s representative cricket, after the first year was a big hit. Last season the GDCA split its matches, beating Ballarat before losing to Castlemaine.

Jack McGann took both wickets in the second innings.

The win moves the Roar into the top four after eight rounds.

The Roar is in fourth spot, but equal on points with the two teams above it.

Kelders said it’s been a solid performance all season and were hoping to continue it for the rest of the year.

“We’re happy,” he said. “We have four rounds to go and we play two of the top four.

“Our destiny is in our own hands and we’ll give it our best possible shot.

“We are confident that we can do well.“

The Roar’s second XI also had a big win on Saturday but fell short of an outright win as well.

The are back in action on Tuesday night in the final round of the T20 competition.

The Roar faces Oak Park St Francis de Sales with its finals chances already over.

The Saints sit atop the table with three wins so far, while Sunbury sits bottom with one win.

Gisborne coach and reigning league best and fairest winner Brianna Woodburn will captain the women’s side.

Her Dragons teammate Ruby Watts is also in the squad.

Bacchus Marsh’s Sarah Bamford has been named vice-captain and is one of three Bulls in the squad along with Kim Bessell and Sara Drew.

East Sunbury’s Rhianna Kirk, Lancefield’s Luzanne De Kock and Meaghan Lyons, Macedon’s Kym Riley, Malmsbury’s Nikola Cox are also in the squad.

Kirk, Lyons and Riley are among those representing the association for the first time. Rounding out the squad are Broadford’s Brooke Jeffrey, Kilmore’s Taylah Logie, and Wallan’s Megan Farrell, Kia Montgomery and Terrie Haydon.

Sunbury continues on

By Tara Murray

Club Sunbury picked up where it left off on Friday night as the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant division 1, section 1 competition resumed.

Sunbury entered the Christmas break on top of the ladder and showed why in its first game back against Bacchus Marsh.

The two sides played underlights on Friday night in a marquee game with Sunbury showing its strength.

Sunbury having no issues at all on the way to a 109 (17)-50 (1) win against the bottom side.

For Sunbury, Rhys Jeffs’ rink won 2716, while Marc Bullows won 33-11 and Mark Armstrong’s won 32–6.

Desmond Cann Jnr’s rink had a 17-all

draw.

Sunbury’s David Glennon said it was a good night playing under the dome at Sunbury.

“It was a good initiative and there were a lot of people there,” he said.

“It’s always a busy night with the members draw and the night was really well supported.

“We were able to get a really good win as well.”

Akasha Fortune, Sophie Kurzman, Paul Callus and Cann were some of the standouts for Sunbury.

The match was the second and final match for Jeffs, who has been a fill in in the matches either side of Christmas.

Sunbury sits atop the table nine points clear of Whittlesea and with Deer Park 2

another two points behind.

Sunbury finds itself in a good position across the board with its top four sides all in finals contention with four rounds remaining.

Glennon said they were keen to keep the momentum going across the board.

Woodend claimed all 16 points in the other match against Trentham.

“It’s full steam ahead,” he said. “There’s one or two tough games to come up.

“We face Moonee Valley this week which is a winnable game.”

Meanwhile in the Ballarat Highlands Bowls Region Highlands division 1 competition, ladder leaders Kyneton continued on its winning ways.

The defending champions were too strong for Lancefield, winning 9 (16)-37

Bees focused on finals despite weekend loss

By Tara Murray

Sunbury United is hoping to continue its good form in the back part of the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup season.

The Bees lost their first two games before things started to click.

While they lost on Saturday to Gisborne, the Bees remain in the finals mix.

Speaking before the weekend’s match, Bees’ captain-coach Fabian Fernando said the season was tracking along nicely.

“I think we have been playing some pretty good cricket the last couple of games,” he said.

“We had a couple of games washed out which was unfortunate for us. They were games we were on top and could have got the win.

“It shows on the ladder where we are in fourth spot. After the weekend [against Wallan] the ladder opened up for the rest of the league.”

Such is the closeness of the competition, after 10 rounds there is less than 14 points between the top six sides.

Fernando knows that the side needs to

keep winning if it is to play finals and have a chance to go one step further this season after making last season’s grand final.

“Apart from the first two games, we’ve got the ball rolling,” he said.

“The washouts haven’t been kind with some other teams picking up bonus points those weekends.

“It will be a massive end to the season.”

The Bees faced a big test on Saturday, facing Gisborne in the second of the grand final rematches.

The first of the games was washed out half way through.

The Dragons enter the match coming off their first loss of the season.

After having a few players missing in the first week back, Fernando said everyone was back and they were hoping to continue to have a consistent season.

“We are looking forward to the challenge,” he said before the match. “There’s always good sportsmanship against them.”

The Dragons were able to bounce back and halt the Bees momentum.

The Dragons made 8-210 from their overs with Matthew Barake finishing 75

(0).

David James Thomas’ rink was the biggest winner on the day, winning 35-11. Kyneton is a runaway leader at the top, 52 points clear of the chasing pack.

There’s only eight points between the next four sides.

Romsey sits in second spot despite an 84 (15)-61 (1) loss to Gisborne on Saturday.

Gisborne moved into the top four with the win.

Kyneton Golf slipped out of the top four with a 65 (!4)-53 (2) loss to Broadford.

Diggers Rest kept the pressure on with an upset win against Kilmore, 66 (14)-54 (2). Diggers Rest sits 20 points outside the top four.

GDCA

East Sunbury caused an upset on Saturday to knock off Diggers Rest Bulla in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield. The Burras made 8-194 from their overs with Nathan Crosland top scoring with 78 at the top of the order. Shiran Ekanayake Mudiyanselage and Jay Patel took three wickets each for the Thunder. The Thunder hit the runs with two overs remaining, finishing 5-195. Gurwinder Singh top scored with 55, while Nathan Dent finished 53 not out. The Thunder sits fourth on the ladder, Lancefield and the Sunbury Kangaroos both suffered losses elsewhere.

GDCA

Riddell, Malmsbury and Hanging Rock were among the winners in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shields seconds on Saturday. The Bombers, who are undefeated, were too strong for Gisborne as they made 6-217 before restricting the Dragons to 9-107. Malmsbury was too strong for Macedon, while Hanging Rock accounted for Sunbury United.

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not out.

Gayan Welikalage took three wickets for the Bees.

The Bees were then restricted to 9-164 from their overs. Upul Fernando top scored with 39.

While the match was important for the overall ladder, the match also decided which sides make the one-day final.

The loss ruled the Bees out with Gisborne and face Woodend on 1 February.

In other matches on Saturday, Woodend continues its good form with a win against Rupertswood.

Woodend made 6-222 from its overs with Josh Eastley and Marcus Stewart top scoring with 68 apiece.

Rupo was bowled out for 150 in reply with Kevin Barker top scoring with 34.

Woodend shared the wickets around.

Macedon won a low scoring affair with Broadford.

Broadford was bowled out for 89, with Macedon finishing 7-91 in reply.

Romsey was able to account for Wallan in the other match.

Romsey made 7-195 before keeping Wallan to 7-150.

Carol McKinstry has lost her seat on the league’s board. The league on Monday hosted its annual general meeting held on 14 January where it confirmed its board of directors. McKinstry, Andy Walker and Sam McGee won’t continue on the new board. The league said the board brings together a strong mix of experience, governance expertise and community connection, and will play a critical role in guiding the league through the next phase of its strategic direction.

GDCA

Romsey’s Logan Collins was named in the under-17 team of the tournament at the recent under-17 national championships. Representing Vic Country, Collins finished with 10 wickets at an average of 15.2 including taking 4-23 and 3-40. Romsey Cricket Club on its social media said it was a fitting recognition of his discipline, economy and persistence.

& Macedon Ranges Star Weekly

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