Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 10th March 2026

In full bloom

Multiple events are on Mount Macedon and District Horticultural Society’s calendar this month, and you’re invited. Turn to page three to find out all about the upcoming botanic art exhibition and Autumn Flower and Produce Show.

Village green light

By Georgia Tacey

A retirement village will be built on land in Gisborne originally zoned for hospital use after Macedon Ranges councillors voted to amend the shire’s planning scheme.

Benetas applied to council to develop a retirement village on land at 5 Neal Street, 8 Neal Street, 78 Hamilton Street and part of the Neal Street road reserve, with the application debated by councillors over a number of council terms.

The land was donated by Humphrey Dixon to the Gisborne and District Bush Nursing Hospital in 1987, with a restrictive

covenantsetonthelandthatstateditcould only be used for a hospital. As such, the land is not zoned for residential dwellings.

Benetas applied to have the Macedon Ranges planning scheme amended to identify the land as a preferred area for medium density housing.

Last year, council referred that request to an independent planning panel after receiving 21 community submissions on the proposal.

A report to the 25 February council meeting stated the panel recommended council approve the amendment and issue a permit for the development subject to a

few changes.

However, not all councillors agreed with the panel.

Cr Jennifer Anderson said she worried that if covenant was removed and the land rezoned, the site could be used purely for residential development if the permit holder chose not to develop the retirement village.

Cr Alison Joseph said the land was is the only site in Gisborne that was zoned for hospital use, adding that the Gisborne community may need these types of facilities in the future.

She moved that council abandon the

planningschemeamendment.Councillors were split four to four on her proposal requiring mayor Kate Kendall to use her casting vote to defeat the motion.

Cr Janet Pearce then moved that council adopt the amendment, but added a provision to enter an agreement with the owner of the land that the site be only used as a retirement village and/or a residential aged care facility, and not for housing.

This motion passed after another split, with Cr Kendall again using her casting vote.

Council will now ask the planning minister to approve the amendment.

Design delay questioned

By Georgia Tacey

The state government has quietly removed the completion date of the final designs for an intersection upgrade in Woodend, Northern Victorian MP Wendy Lovell has revealed.

The final designs were meant to be complete by late 2025 for the High Street and Urquhart Street intersection upgrade, as per the project website read when it was last archived in September 2025.

The Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) has funding to complete the development of an upgrade at the

intersection , which Ms Lovell said was “notoriously risky, with no traffic lights and a confusing layout with service lanes merging into the junction”.

In December, Ms Lovell asked Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne in parliament if the state government would commit to funding the intersection upgrade in the 2026-27 state budget.

In her response, Ms Horne said the detailed design was “nearing completion”, but no designs have been released.

Ms Lovell again spoke in parliament in February to call for the release of the designs.

“The intersection of High Street and

Urquhart Street in Woodend poses serious safety risks and urgently needs an upgrade, but locals are now concerned that the Allan Labor Government will further delay the project,” she said.

“The government said planning would be complete by the end of 2025 and the designs shared online, but we are now two months into 2026 with no designs available. The minister for roads must confirm that the designs have been finalised, and publicly release them.”

DTP Loddon Mallee Hume executive director Anthony Judd said the state government was planning future safety improvements that could be delivered at

Men open shed doors to the community

The Lancefield Men’s Shed is opening up its doors to the whole community on Saturday 14 March.

Theopendaywillbeanexcitingchance tofindouteverythinggoingonattheshed, with tours available, a range of goods and machineryondisplayandachanceforthe men to showcase what they do, alongside a free sausage sizzle for the community.

President Russell Barclay said it’s a chance as well for prospective members

to see if they’d like to join.

“Were going to have shed members available to show people through the shed, and the types of machinery that we haveandthetypesofjobswedoinmaking products,repairing,refurbishingfurniture andotherapplianceswithintheshed,and displayingsomeofourmarketproductwe sell as well,” he said.

“It’s also a chance to explain to the community what Men’s Sheds are, which

is for men to be able to gather together and whether they be working and talking, or they’d just be socialising, to sit around and have a talk about men’s physical and mental health.”

Healsosaidtheshedplanstohostaladies training program later this year.

The open day will be held from 9am to noon at the Lancefield Men’s Shed.

Details: Russell, 0418 665 344 or lancefieldshed@lancefieldhouse.org.au

Free foodie workshops as part of the Change Makers Festival

Omnia Community Health is partnering with Veg Action Group and Open Table to delivertwofreehands-onfoodworkshopsin March as part of the 2026 Macedon Ranges Change Makers Festival.

Nutritionist Beck O’Farrell from Big Bowl ofHappywilldelivertheEatMoreVegworkshop in Kyneton.

Ms O’Farrell, a passionate foodie, keen home cook and mum of three, runs her workshops in a fun and interactive way while sharing her knowledge in gut microbiome health. In this two-hour workshop, participants will be guided through cooking

tasty, vegetable-packed recipes before sitting down to enjoy them together.

Open Table, experts in turning seasonal gluts or leftover vegetables into nutritious, long-lasting preserves will run a pickling and fermenting workshop at Lancefield. Participants will learn the fundamentals of safe fermenting, taste sauerkraut, and make their own jar of pickles to take home, gaining practical skills in making the most of what’s already on hand and keeping food out of landfill.

Omnia Community Health said both these workshops will provide participants

the intersection of High Street and Urquhart Street.

“Our design work is well progressed and we’re continuing conversations with stakeholders, including V/Line, on how to best safely integrate designs with the train station to finalise a design that boosts safety for all road users,” he said.

The project website was updated this month to read that draft designs have now been completed, with the state government considering a range of options to improve the intersection including traffic lights, reconfiguring service roads, simplifyingaccesstoWoodendTrainStation and installing an on-road bike lane.

Council plan to boost social housing

Hume council will explore how to boost local social housing by working with housing providers and the state and federal governments to develop projects on vacant land.

Councillors endorsed a motion at the 23 February meeting to explore how council-owned land, as well as state or federal sites, could be used to deliver more social and affordable homes.

Cr Kate Hamley said there was an urgent need for more council-driven social housing.

“The cost of housing is continuing to rise faster than incomes, putting incredible strain on household budgets and fueling growing inequality,” Cr Hamley said.

“Federal and state government commitments to social and affordable housing aren’t making an impact just yet, the scale of the problem is far too big.

“We need every level of government working together to make sure that everyone has a safe, secure home.”

She said Hume’s strategic property management framework opens opportunities to develop social housing on council land.

“There are government-owned properties throughout our city that have potential to be utilised to provide accessible, affordable homes for our community,” she said.

She said partnering with housing providers and the state and federal governmenttodevelopsocialhousingiscrucial.

“This would happen sooner than later because this need is urgent,” she said.

Cr Naim Kurt said recent national reporting on housing affordability is “shocking”.

“To buy a house in Victoria in Melbourne, you need to have a salary of $190,000,” Cr Kurt said.

“When you think about some of the low income earners across Hume, I don’t know many who are earning over $190,000.”

Cr Kurt said he is happy to consider using council land, state or crown land for social housing projects in Hume.

with thriftly, practical skills they can immediately put into practice at home.

The Eat More Veg cooking workshop is from 6-8pm on 26 March at Kyneton Community House’s Good Food Hub, 35 High Street, Kyneton.

The No-Waste Pickling and Fermenting workshop is from 10-11.30am on 28 March at St Mary’s School, 20-28 Chauncey Street, Lancefield.

Kynetonbooking:sunburycobaw.org.au/ eat-more-veg/ Lancefield booking: sunburycobaw.org. au/pickling-and-fermenting-workshop/

“Hopefully we can see some shovels in the ground and be on the way to providing some housing for those who need it.

“Whether it’s young people in need, whether it’s women in need, whether it’s low income earners, whether it’s people just need a roof over their head, this is a good place to start with it all.”

Council’s Clarkefield concern

By Georgia Tacey

A new major township for the Macedon Ranges is causing concern among councillors.

A 2000-plus lot development has been planned for Clarkefield, set to completely transform its rural landscape and turn what council classifies as a ‘hamlet’ into a town.

The 220-hectare APD Projects development will have a goal of it being a net zero carbon community, according to Flow Power who partnered with APD on the project.

The masterplan includes “new town centre, all electric energy-efficient

living, zero emission transport options, community garden and produce farm, innovative waste management solutions, a community owned solar farm” and more, according to APD Projects.

During the 24 February council meeting, Cr Daniel Young called for council to seek furtherinformationandcommunicationon the proposal from the planning minisiter.

Under the state government’s Development Facilitation Program, APD Projects requested the planning minister become the planning authority for an amendment to the Macedon Ranges planning scheme required to allow the development to take place.

Cr Young said the area will not be able to support a development of this size.

“The very small township of Clarkefield, consisting of only a couple of houses and a V/Line train station, would have a huge development hoist upon it,” he said.

He wants the planning minister to communicate the proposal for Clarkefield with the public, as well as provide feedback on the scale and detail of the new township, and how it might affect township amenity, rural character, as well as how it aligns with the Macedon Ranges Statement of Planning Policy’s approach to managing growth shire-wide.

Mayor Kate Kendall said she welcomed

Dreams of a new world record take flight

Howlongcouldyouflyakitefor? Doyou think you could fly it for an hour, maybe two? What about 24 hours straight, with no breaks?

One Kyneton local is about to find out as he attempts to break a Guinness WorldRecord,flyinghiskitefor24hours straight solo.

Kite-obsessed Angus Johnstone will beattemptinghisworldrecordfeatfrom sunrise on 14 March until sunrise on 15 March in his biggest fundraising event yet for humanitarian organisations in Myanmar.

Angus lived and worked as a teacher in the country before moving to the Macedon Ranges, and after conflict broke out in the country in 2021, he’s been fundraising ever since in his own unique ways.

“I had a mullet, I had a neckbeard and a monobrow, but this year I thought I would try something different and combine my passion for kite flying with that for Myanmar,” he said.

He has already raised more than $6000.

AsperofficialGuinnessWorldRecord rules, Angus said his kite must remain airborne continuously for 24 hours with no breaks or sleep allowed. It must remain in his hands at all times, testing his physical endurance, concentration and resilience.

He will have observers there to witness, with the attempt also to be recorded.

Keeping his kite airborne will be one of the biggest challenges, which Angus said the location was crucial for.

“We chose Port Fairy because on the coast there, you’re fronting onto the

A world record is almost in reach for Angus Johnstone.

(Georgia Tacey)

Bass Strait,” he said.

“Apparently, it’s one of the best places you can find consistent overnight wind.

“Attheendoftheday,we’recompletely

dependent on the weather, so we have to cross our fingers.”

Details: facebook.com/profile. php?id=61587918149932

thetransparencythismotionwouldprovide for council and the community.

“I think a proposal of this nature is significant for our shire, and it really deserves the public visibility and residents should feel that decisions about the future of their area are happening with their knowledge,” she said.

The project was fast-tracked through the state government’s Development Facilitation Program, which provides expedited planning pathways for eligible projects that support the Victorian economy, provide jobs and create homes.

In 2024, the program was expanded to include renewable energy projects.

Mount Macedon’s blooming in March

March will be a busy month for the Mount Macedon and District Horticultural Society, with two big events planned.

The society will host its annual Autumn Flower and Produce Show over 14-15 March.

The show is open to all residents of the Macedon Ranges to enter.

While the delivery of exhibits and judging takes place on Saturday 14 March, visitors are welcome to see the show on Sunday 15 March from 10am to 4pm

President Stephen Ryan said the show is a must-see.

“It’s like an old-fashioned flower show that you probably would have seen on the telly,” he said. “It’s great fun, and it’s meant for people to enjoy themselves, show off what they’re doing and maybe walk home with a trophy.”

Entry into the show will be $6 at the door.

The week after, Artanica, a botanic art exhibition will be shown from 21 March until 6 April.

The biennial art exhibition celebrates the unique discipline of botanic art, and plans to showcase the work of some of Australia’s most respected contemporary botanical artists alongside emerging artists from the society.

“This is a fairly high-end botanic art show, and it will be one of those highlights people want to come and see,” Mr Ryan said.

Entry to the exhibition will be a gold coin donation.

Both events will be held at the Mount Macedon Horticultural Society Hall.

Details: mountmacedonhorticulture. org.au/

Clean-up army for Hume

A clean-up corps comprising people convicted of vandalism and illegal rubbish dumping, as well as Work for the Dole participants, could be hitting the streets in Hume.

Cr Naim Kurt used the 23 February council meeting to ask Hume officers to consider establishing a community cleanupcorpsthatwouldbepartofemployment and community participation programs.

He said the corps – which were an idea raised by long-time Hume resident John Mitchell – would act as a consequence for anyone who damaged public spaces.

“If you litter, if you vandalise, if you deface our streets and you are convicted, you should be held accountable and you should be made to clean it up locally,“ he

said. “It ... sends a message that in Hume, if you do damage our community, you will be held to account and you will help to restore it.

“I think that is tough, that is fair and that is what our residents expect as well.”

Cr Kurt said the clean-up corps would not replace the work of council staff, but would focus on low-risk supervised tasks including graffiti removal, litter collection, gardening and general clean-ups, which he said are all permitted under Work for the Dole or corrections programs.

He said the program would offer rehabilitationandbuildbetterpathwaysfor the community.

“Hume is one of the few councils not actively leveraging community work orders

or Work for the Dole style programs to support amenity outcomes,” he said.

“Other levels of government already run and fund these programs. The framework exists. The participants exist. The need certainly exists. It’s up to us to start that partnership.”

Cr Kurt said council officers had already provided advice that indicated the cleanup corps would ease pressure on Hume’s resources and save on contractor costs.

Cr Steve Gagen said he thought the clean-up corps was an “excellent” idea.

“Traditional methods of dealing with people who have done wrong are very expensive and we have probably all read … about the costs of keeping in prison,”

“We are going to get something for this.”

Artrise Gallery welcomes first artist

The first exhibition has arrived at the Artrise Gallery, with a Sunbury local the first to exhibit.

Renee Broders’ exhibition, About Face, explores the long tradition of portraiture, which Broders said she wanted to challenge. “Throughout history, artists have used the face to explore ideas of power, identity, emotion, and psychological presence,” she said.

“My work sits within that tradition, but it also seeks to challenge and then reframe it by using bold colour and abstracted shapes.”

Broders worked with oil and acrylics, paintingonlinenandboardfortheexhibit, as well as created numerous paper collage works using vintage German women’s reading material, historical and cultural imagery and reclaimed street poster waste

matter,” she said.

The new gallery space is part of the redevelopmentofthebuildingsatJacksons HillinSunbury,whichtransformedthesite into a space for creativity and community collaboration. Broders said she was honoured to be the first artist to exhibit at Artrise.

About Face will be on display at Artrise Gallery until 22 April.

Council will now write to the federal employment minister and state corrections minister to express its interest in pursuing funding and partnership opportunities for amenity-focused employment and community participation initiatives.

A report to the council meeting noted that council has been in negotiations with the Department of Justice and Community Services for a partnership opportunity for a graffiti removal program, with a provision for a litter collection component as an optional inclusion.

Budget for the graffiti component is included in the 2026-27 proposed budget, the report stated,, but should council wish to utilise the litter collection service, extra funds would need to be allocated.

Ranges Lions skin checks yield promising results

A skin check bus hosted by Macedon Ranges Lions Clubs has offered insight to the local community about the importance of getting checked.

In early February, the Gisborne, Kyneton, Woodend, Lancefield-Romsey, Riddells Creek and Trentham Lions Clubs joined forces to bring the Lions free skin check van into the Macedon Ranges again at Woodend.

Across the two days, the three volunteer demoscopists examined 139 people at no cost, and Woodend Lions Club president Barry McDonald said more than half of those hadn’t ever been screened.

Of those checked, 22 per cent were referred to follow up with doctors, but Mr McDonald said no life threatening lesions were discovered during the checks. He said lions were proud to continue to bring this free service to the Ranges.

“This activity is richly rewarding, knowing that we are making a difference,” he said.

The van is commissioned by Lions Victoria and has toured across the state for years screening people and getting their skin checked. Over the two days, three volunteer demoscopists came to Woodend who are trained with the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre to undertake the assessments, and were supported by Macedon Ranges Lions Clubs during their stay.

Councillors ask for clarity around government housing targets

Macedon Ranges council will write to the planning minister seeking clarity around how it will reach its state governmentassignedhousingtargetof13,200additional dwellings by 2051.

At the 25 February council meeting, Cr Cassy Borthwicks moved a motion that council chief executive Bernie O’Sullivan write to the planning minister to ensure the housing target is “measurable, trackable and constrained to the available and planned infrastructure capacity of the shire”

The council wants clarity on the “activation date for MRSC’s housing target”andthebaselineforthecounciland for each township on that date.

It also wants clarity on the definition of housing and whether retirement living, aged care, land-lease communities, apartments, build-to-rent, tiny homes,

townhouses as well as stand-alone dwellings contribute to the target.

Council will also ask how “stateintervened” developments are treated, including the planned Clarkefield development that will see Clarkefield grow from a ‘hamlet’ into a town, with 2000 houses planned.

Cr Jennifer Anderson questioned the treatment of retirement villages.

“[Retirement villages] are not counted as dwellings in the [Macedon Ranges] planning scheme, they’re counted as accommodation,” she said.

“If they aren’t counted as a house, we’re getting a much bigger population than the housing targets.”

Cr Borthwick said she hoped her motion will bring clarity to the community and council. “We need clarity on counting rules, which housing categories can

contribute to the target, how yields from state government intervention are recordedand,critically,howinfrastructure will keep pace with the mandated growth sothatwearenotdisadvantaged,”shesaid. The state government’s housing targets were announced in 2024, with the ambitious aim to build two million new homes across Victoria by 2051. The state government said the targets were set based on proximity to jobs and services, existing and planned public transport, environmental hazards including flood and bushfire risk, development trends and places already identified for more homes, and development potential in established regional cities.

MY PLACE

Jarrod Rowan and his family made the move to Sunbury in late 2020. He caught up with Georgia Tacey to chat about his love for his new home.

What’s your connection to Sunbury?

Prior to meeting my wife I had never been to Sunbury nor barely even heard of Sunbury. But once we got deeper into our relationship we moved in with my wife’s mum in 2015-16 so we could save some money to buy our first house. Once we saved up enough, we purchased our first house which was in Craigieburn but knowingthatwewouldbebackinSunbury in no time as we both loved the place. We then sold our house in Craigieburn right at the end of 2020 and finally got to move back to Sunbury. We have a lot of family in Sunbury, being a small electrical business ownerthatstartedinSunbury99.9percent of my work is in Sunbury!

What do you like about where you live? By far, the greatest thing about Sunbury is the people! Sunbury still has that country town feeling about it. When you take the kids down to O’Shanassy Street, the majority of people will still say good morning or afternoon, whatever it may be. Another great thing about Sunbury is the variety of food places to choose from.

Is there anything you’d change or like to see in Sunbury?

Sunbury is growing rapidly, everywhere you look there is a new estate going up. I personally believe that the way that O’Shanassy Street and Evans Street is at the moment is not great. If you try going down there on weekends it can take a serious amount of time to get from one end to the other. I have no idea of the fix but I feel like some change could be made to

that area. Obviously we are going to have more shopping complexes open up soon which will ease that pressure but for now it’s pretty hectic!

What’s your favourite place to spend time?

These days, I tend to stay home with our three little girls. But I do like spending time down at the pubs in Sunbury on the weekend when footy season is not on, whether it be heading to the Olive Tree,

NO ONE’S UNSINKABLE

To all those Unsinkable Guys out there –

or just nice and close at Langama Park is always a good time. What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?

A big one especially when I am onsite with customers, they will always get surprised when I tell them I have three little girls at home. It’s normally ’you look too young to have kids’.

Are you involved in any groups or clubs locally? Can you tell me a bit about your

You might think it’s safe to have a few drinks around water, skip the life jacket when you’re out on the boat or go for a swim without checking the conditions.

But statistics prove that 4 out of 5 drownings are men.

Just remember that no one’s unsinkable.

UNSINKABLE GUY

RETHINK TAKING RISKS AROUND WATER

involvement there?

Yes absolutely, I am a proud player and sponsor of the Diggers Rest Football Club. I have been playing at Diggers since 2018. Ever since starting up my business in October 2024, I quickly hopped on board as a sponsor of the footy club as they have been very supportive of me starting up my own business since day one and have supported me massively in the past when I have battled through some injury so it was the least I could do for the club.

Romsey skate park takes air

TheRomseySkateParkhasofficiallyopened, with the community coming together to celebrate.

Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas joined the community on 1 March to celebrate the opening of the revamped venue, a passion project for the Lancefield Romsey Lions Club.

Informed by community consultation, the new skate park comes complete with a bowl, quarter pipe, mini ramp and various hips and corners as well as shade shelters, seating, lighting, landscaping and pathways.

Local skateboarders, scooter riders, BMXers, and others now have a great new base to test their skills at a venue that caters forbeginnersrightuptoadvanced.

Macedon Ranges council supported the project alongside the Community Bank and the Lions Club, who advocated for the projectforRomsey’syouthtohaveaplaceto playin-town.

Ms Thomas welcomed the opening of the project, which was also supported by a $950,000 investment from the state government.

“The community asked for this and it’s fantastic for them to have the skate park they deserve. Skaters in Romsey of all ages and ability now have a place to keep active andenjoytheoutdoors,”shesaid.

“Romsey is home to a passionate community of skaters, and it’s wonderful to see they now have a skate park that meets theneedsofpeopleofallagesandabilities.”

Ratepayers double-charged

Macedon Ranges council is urgently investigating how some ratepayers were double-charged on their third rates installment. Council corporate director Adele Drago-Stevens said council was aware a number of third-installment direct debits for rates were incorrectly processed overnight on Monday 2 March. She said this resulted in about 1040 ratepayers being double charged. “We are quickly investigating the cause of this issue and working closely with our banking providers to reverse the duplicated transactions and return the additional amount to all affected ratepayers as promptly as possible,” she said.

Gisborne storm event

Macedon Ranges council is working with the developer of Rosalia Estate following the two intense storm events in late February that resulted in localised flooding in Gisborne. Council said storms brought heavy rainfall and hail to the area, causing significant runoff through the Swinburne Avenue and Cherry Lane area where subdivision works are underway and sections of the permanent drainage network are still being completed. Council said it is working with the developer to review the subdivision drainage network and determine works to improve stormwater management.

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Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Discover 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

FULL LAUNDRY LOADS SAVE WATER

Smarter water use starts with everyday choices. Run full laundry loads, take shorter showers and turn the tap off when brushing your teeth.

Cafe’s purposeful blend

Soulful Spreads is a social enterprise cafe located in Tarneit that helps young women and people with disabilities gain hands on experience. Jaidyn Kennedy paid the cafe a visit and learned its story.

Coffee, catering and confidence might sound like an strange brew of concepts, yet they are exactly what a local cafe in Tarneit serves to its customers and team.

Tucked away near the Julia Gillard Library is Soulful Spreads, a social enterprise that supports young people and women with disabilities by providing hands-on hospitality training.

Put simply, a social enterprise is a business that reinvests the majority of its earnings into a cause it supports rather than chasing profit.

Founded in July last year by Samira Fazal with the help of her sister Noshi, the purpose always stemmed from a personal calling.

“It is a bit of a personal story, because I have two sisters with disabilities, and I have always wanted to work to help people,” Ms Fazal said.

“Untillastyear,Iworkedinthecorporate world and in community service, but I just didn’t feel much fulfilment from it.

“Then I gave up my job in April last year and that is where this came about.”

Everything staked on one sentiment.

“I have always said disability is not inability,” Ms Fazal said.

Which is where the name was born.

“My sister and I were just chatting about, and it is the spread of abilities we wanted to be looking at – instead of just looking at disabilities that people have.”

Now in the swing of things, the cafe provides five-week programs, opportunities for volunteers and community catering services.

The program is designed as a stepping stone to confidence, independence, and a pathway to meaningful employment.

Everything on the menu – from cappuccinos to toasties – is deliberately capped at $5.50 to make it affordable for locals.

The weekly menu is also designed by those participating.

“They select what they want to put on the menu, so I get them the ingredients and we cook it together,” Ms Fazal said.

“Our menu is very simple on paper but changes all the time.”

She was asked why designing and implementing a menu is an important operating feature.

“They need to be able to decide things and exercise that decision making power, because not all of them have it yet.

“Peopleneedtohaveabitofcontroland autonomy over their space, I want them to be able to have that control because when they go out in the real world, they have to make a lot of decisions.”

Volunteer Anjali Manral is currently learning on the job.

“I love coming to the cafe because it helps give me lots of confidence that I am able to do something,” Ms Manral said.

“I really enjoy meeting people, making coffee and learning different skills.

“My skills have improved, if someone orders multiple choice, I’m confident with all the prices and know I’m not going to make a mistake.

“And if I do, it’s okay there’s no pressure on me, so it’s good like that.”

Silky Somani volunteers and gains something slightly different from her involvement.

“It has played a major role in my life because I have two kids and so back home I’m occupied with them most of the time, but here it is just me time.

“Which gives me a lot of satisfaction, happiness and I look forward to Mondays, so I can come and make some coffees.

Learning has not been a one-way street.

“I have learned a lot, but I think the most important thing I have learned is just being patient,” Ms Fazal said.

“I put a sign up in the cafe saying please be patient.

“I have become very humble and patient, so personally I have grown learning from them, too.

“There are lots of fancy cafes out there–don’t expect fancy and that’s because there is a bigger cause you are supporting.”

Ms Fazal wants to carry on the momentum she and her sister have built.

“The goal for the next year is to get more people in the program.

“My vision for the next five years is to open a cafe and employ more people.

Integral to that vision is taking the sting out of the word disability.

“I have come from a background where disability is hidden, it’s a taboo, but I want to be able to talk about it,” Ms Fazal said.

“As mothers, sisters and daughters we need to talk about it.

“I strongly believe that everyone has a purpose and something they can give back to the community.

“It’s just human nature to focus on what we can’t do— and not what we can do.

“So why don’t we build on the abilities we have and build that up for them.

“It’s made a huge difference, not only for me but for the community.”

In the meantime, there is plenty to do.

“We are always looking for volunteers, especially on the days we have cooking classes,” Ms Fazal said.

There’s even a way for customers to feed into spirit of giving.

“We have a pay it forward model in where you buy a coffee for someone else, andthentheybuyoneforthenextperson,” Ms Fazal said.

“Giving back to the community is very fulfilling – knowing someone is not going to sleep hungry or start their day.”

Me Fazal said she is eternally grateful for those community members and wants everyone to pop by if they get the chance to see the work they do.

“If we work together, we can make so many changes, and the community support is what makes this happen.”

Soulful Spreads is open 8.30am-noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Details: https://soulfulspreads.com

Coming soon to Sunbury

Discover a brand-new community designed for low maintenance living, modern home designs and a vibrant, connected lifestyle.

Located in Sunbury, this exciting new community, spaces and the freedom to live the way you want.

features and exclusive launch updates.

Register your interest today by calling 1800 135 010 or scan the QR code.

Learn more

Potential to free up money

Low maintenance living Own your own home Keep any capital gains

Expanding VET pathways for students and the community

Salesian College Sunbury is proud to celebrate the establishment of a strengthened partnership with Kangan Institute, opening new and meaningful learning opportunities for students and adultlearnersacrosstheSunburyregion.

The partnership was reinforced when Salesian joined Kangan Institute at the unveiling of designs for its new Sunbury campus–reflectingasharedcommitment to accessible, place based vocational education,supportingsecondarystudents through the VET cluster while also extendingopportunitiestothewideradult learning community based vocational education,supportingsecondarystudents through the VET cluster while also extendingopportunitiestothewideradult learningcommunity.

Through this collaboration, Salesian College Sunbury students can access vocational learning pathways in construction, beauty and health, aligned with industry needs and designed to support smooth transitions from school into further training or employment. These opportunities enable students to gain practical skills, industry exposure and recognised competencies while completingtheirsecondaryeducation.

At the same time, the partnership supports adult learners and career changers, offering flexible and local trainingoptionsthatstrengthenworkforce participationandlifelonglearningwithin theSunburycommunity.

The event also acknowledged the first group of learners who have completed studies at the Hume Global Learning Centre, marking an early milestone as vocational offerings continue to expand throughstrongeducationpartnerships.

Looking ahead, the future Kangan Institute Evans Street Campus further reinforces Sunbury’s growing reputation asahubforeducation,skillsdevelopment and community learning, supporting learnersateverystageoflife.

This collaboration reflects Salesian College Sunbury’s commitment to Community, Learning, Excellence and

Faith, ensuring students are supported to explore vocational pathways within a values-driveneducationalenvironment.

As the VET cluster continues to grow, Salesian College Sunbury looks forward todeepeningitspartnershipwithKangan Institute and contributing to a strong, future-focused learning ecosystem for Sunbury.

Through our partnership with Kangan Institute, Salesian College Sunbury is expanding industry aligned pathways for students and the wider community — discover how local learning leads to real futures at scr.vic.edu.au

Voices from the community

Josh Bull MP, Member for Sunbury

“Sunbury is fast becoming a centre of excellence for skills and training. It’s wonderful to see the Hume Global Learning Centre and the partnerships between Kangan, Salesian College, and local industry are creating clear pathways from school to TAFE to employment. This is about opportunity close to home– backing local learners to thrive.”

Laura Macpherson, CEO, Kangan Institute

Kangan Institute’s new TAFE campus is one step closer.

“We’re building engaging and flexible learning environments for a growing Sunbury community. From hair and beauty to digital tech and education support this campus is about job-ready skills that matter. Education should be accessible, practical and localand that’s exactly what this new TAFE campus will deliver.”

Mark Brockhus, Principal, Salesian College Sunbury

“The partnership represents an important step forward for both students and the broader community Our partnership with Kangan Institute is creating real and practical pathways for our students in areas such as construction, beauty and health, while also supporting adult learning in our community. By working together, we are building connected, local opportunities that prepare learners for future study, employment and life beyond school.”

Fifteen day luxury cruise

Imagine sailing down the Mississippi and the Ohio Rivers for 16 days taking in the sights of colourful New Orlean, musical Memphis and lovely Louisville.

Viking have announced their new itineraries for the region for 2027 and bookings are now open.

Sailing on board the Viking Mississippi, guests can choose the new fifteen day Bayous, Blues and Bluegrass itinerary, which operates between New Orleans and Louisville, with ports of call along the Mississippi and Ohio rivers.

A shorter option is the eight day Mississippi and Ohio River Explorer itinerary which offers a journey between Memphis and Louisville.

Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen believes wherever they are in the world, Viking guests are interested in the history, culture and culinary traditions of the destinations they visit.

“The towns and cities along the Mississippi and Ohio rivers are close to home for quite a few of our guests and are fantastic destinations that many have yet to discovering,” he said.

He believes the new itineraries expand the company’s destination-focused offerings on the Mississippi River.

The itineraries explore the rich heritage of the American South, birthplace of some of the country’s most beloved culinary and musical tradition with the 2027 Bayous, Bluesand Bluegrass15dayNewOrleansto Louisville cruise.

Along the Mississippi River, grand homes preserve the South’s past. Step into Civil War history at Vicksburg and feel the rhythm of the blues in Greenville. Further north, sample smoky barbecue in Tennessee and discover Kentucky’s legacy of craftsmanship, from the powerful Louisville Slugger to smooth bourbon.

Also new for 2027 is the eight day Mississippi and Ohio River Explorer from Memphis to Louisville. Sail on the Ohio and Mississippi rivers as they wind past scenic wetlands, quaint towns and storied cities.

Classic American musical genres with the blues, rock ‘n’ roll and bluegrass arose along these waterways. Discover the legacies of icons such as BB King and Elvis Presley in Memphis, Tennessee. In Kentucky, Louisville’s baseball museum preserves the spirit of America’s favourite pastime while its bourbon distilleries honour generations of craftsmanship.

The 22-day Mississippi River Odyssey from New Orleans to St Paul gives guests the opportunity to revel in the charm of “America’sGreatRiver”astheshipsetssail along the Mississippi.

Admire the historic mansions and grand homes atop its bluffs, and delve into America’s Civil War history.

Delight in the region’s famed Southern cuisine and sample Memphis’s renowned barbecue, alongside artisan beers. Birthplace of American music, blues, jazz and soul, the Mississippi celebrates its musical heritage in the towns and cities that line its legendary shores.

The eight-day Mississippi Delta Explorer from New Orleans to Memphis allows guests to discover Darrow, the gateway to the grand homes of the Lower Mississippi and explore the fascinating towns along the banks of the Mississippi that preserve the memory of the American South’s early history.

Learn about Natchez’s French and Acadian heritage and pay respects at the Vicksburg battlefield. Savour delicious Cajun and creole cuisine, as well as Memphis’s famous barbecue, as you celebratemusicallegendsinthebirthplace of rock ’n’ roll.

Discover the Heartland of America over eightdaysfromStLouisto StPaulasguests journey along the Upper Mississippi and hear stories of intrepid pioneers and the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Walk in the footsteps of famed writer MarkTwainandlearnabouttheNorwegian migration to the Midwest.

Enjoy the view as the luxury ship navigates through the river’s intricate lock system and experience the region’s many cultural treasures from ragtime, polka and NorwegianfolkmusictoWisconsincheese, craft beer and hearty stews.

On the eight day New Orleans and Southern Charms leaving New Orleans for a roundtrip, discover the Lower Mississippi’s rich charm, history and hospitality. Explore historic estates and visit notable Civil War sites.

Sample the bustling French-flavoured port cities of New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Sway to the tempos of Dixieland jazz, gospel and blues. Savour gourmet

Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as traditional Southern fare. Join this special VikingcruiseandseewhylocalCajunssay, “Laissez les bons temps rouler” (Let the good times roll).

The Viking Mississippi hosts 386 guests in 193 all-outside staterooms. The state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships and features elegant Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but reimagined for Mississippi River voyages. The ship’s cutting-edge design, expansive windows and comfortable amenities make the Viking Mississippi the first truly modern ship in the region.

For further information please phone 138 747 or visit www.viking.com.

EUROPE

$5,695* pp

Book now and choose your preferred offer valued up to $5,000 per couple: Free economy class flight offers, upgrade to business class with an airfare credit, or save on your cruise fare.

Available until sold out on select river, ocean and expedition voyages*.

ROMANTIC DANUBE

Budapest to Regensburg or vice versa

Explore Göttweig Abbey, one of Austria’s most revered monastic centres and make dumplings with Wachau Valley apricots.

8 DAYS • 3 COUNTRIES • 5 GUIDED TOURS

JUN-NOV 2026; 2027; MAR-NOV 2028

From $5,695pp in Standard Stateroom From $6,695pp in Veranda Stateroom

PASSAGE TO EASTERN EUROPE

Bucharest to Budapest or vice versa

Sail the Danube’s Iron Gate, witness Hungary’s Puszta horsemen, and behold Budapest’s grandeur—Eastern Europe unveiled.

11 DAYS • 5 COUNTRIES • 8 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • APR-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027; 2028

From $7,595pp in Standard Stateroom From $9,495pp in Veranda Stateroom

CAPITALS OF EASTERN EUROPE

Bucharest to Vienna or vice versa

Discover the “City of Waltzes,” Austria’s elegant capital and European centre of classical music. In Bratislava, view grand palaces from the Hapsburg era.

17 DAYS • 7 COUNTRIES • 12 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • APR-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027; 2028

From $11,495pp in Standard Stateroom From $16,795pp in Veranda Stateroom

Introducing our 2026-2028 River Voyages brochure. Uncover the immersive experiences that await you along the world’s waterways with Viking.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

35 years ago 12 March, 1991

The battle of wits over the Barro Group’s controversial proposal for a large basalt quarry at the foot of Mt Macedon may have entered its final round.

20 years ago 14 March, 2006

ThousandsofpeopleflockedtoSunbury to see the Queen’s baton wind its way through the town on Thursday.

15 years ago

8 March, 2011

SunburyresidentshavereceivedanSOS from RSL president Graeme Williams.

10 years ago 8 March, 2016

A Sunbury Heights Primary School pupil is continuing to defy the odds, overcoming a birth defect, relative inexperience and the death of her mother on her way to picking up a swag of ribbons.

and

Each week Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing events and people across the Macedon Ranges, Hume and Whittlesea.

Artists unite for showcase

Six local artists, based at the Hunt Club and Community Arts Centre, have come together to host an open day and foyer exhibition to inspire locals through the powerofart.

The foyer exhibition will feature works by Brimbank council resident studio artists Lee Agius (Artful Warrior), Lukas Kasper, Fiona Clarke, Kenneth McKean, Amra PajalicandElzetteBester.

The works showcase each artists’ unique discipline and artistic voice, which contributetoBrimbank’sculturallife.

Artists will also run free community workshops on their different creative practicesatanopendayon14March.

Curator and studio artist Lee Agius came upwiththeopendayidealastyear.

“I just thought, people don’t realise that the artists are at the Hunt Club. [The event] would be a good way to bridge that gap between the studios upstairs and the communities,”shesaid.

“Even though we all work individually, we’vealldonecommunityworkbefore.”

Ms Agius, a qualified creative arts therapist and mental health and disability practitioner, has worked in creative arts therapyformorethantwodecades.

“Ifoundthatworkinginacreativecontext with other people was a bit more satisfying tome,”shesaid.

Artist Elzette Bester is a graphic designer and illustrator who has worked in the creativeindustryfor25years.

She said she wants locals to know the studioartistsareaccessible.

“I think [locals], apart from doing something creative, can take away that there are some exceptional artists in Brimbank council that are ready to be part of the community, be part of community projects,”MsBestersaid.

“Comeandhaveacoffeewithus.Wewant some engagement so we can continue to do whatweloveandhelpthecommunityatthe sametime.”

The ‘Creative Ground - From Studio to Community’ exhibition, supported by Brimbank council, will be on display until 2 April at Hunt Club Community and Arts Centre,775BallaratRoad,DeerPark.

The exhibition open day will run from 12.30-4.30pm on Saturday 14 March at the samelocation.

Registration for free workshops is essential, and spaces are limited. More info andregistration:shorturl.at/kVflK

Meet me at the SunFest disco for dance floor favourites

Sunbury’s inclusive theatre company, BoilOver Performance Ensemble, will be performing on home soil for the very first time.

The group will be joining the lineup of SunFest, Sunbury’s annual festival to showcase one of its most colourful productions,MeetMeattheDisco.

Filled with dance floor favourites from the 1970s and ‘80s, the performance will take the audience inside the dream of a bored and lonely young man who, after finding a dusty old record player under his

grandparents’bed,wakesuptofindhimself inapumping,sequin-fillednightclub.

BoilOver creative producer Carmen Maddison promised this performance will bringasmiletoyourface.

“We are very excited to be bringing Meet Me at the Disco to the streets of Sunbury,” she said. “We would love to see a big crowd join us in celebrating self-expression and individuality.”

Meet Me at the Disco is coming to the SunFest stage on the Village Green at 6pm onSaturday14March.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Also set to rock the stage will be multiple of Sunbury’s finest performers and groups, with choirs, singers, dancers, school and moresettoperform.

SunFestwillbeheldthroughoutSaturday 14 March and Sunday 15 March, and will includeastreetparade,stalls,rides,acolour runandmore.Details:sunfest.org.au/

BoilOver ensemble members Connor O’Keefe, Sarah Ellis, Savannah Coots, Andrew Niccoladies and artist support Karen Cleur. (Supplied)

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

Movies on the Hill

Movies on the Hill presents their next film on Sunday 15 March at 2pm, at Norma Richardson Hall, Woodend. Join us on a wild adventure Walking with the Great Apes. Travel by dug-out canoe up the Congo River to meet Lowland Gorillas, fly into a remote, boggy airstrip to be hugged by Bonobos. Climb hills in all weathers to find Mountain Gorillas and legendary Dian Fossey’s grave. Steam up Lake Tanganyika to Jane Goodall’s research station and meet her beloved Chimpanzees, And finally navigate a Sumatran jungle river to find a wheelbarrow full of orphaned baby orangutans. Interviews with Jane Goodall and Birute Galdikas and personal encounters with our cousins, the Orangutans, Eastern and Western Lowland Gorillas, Bonobos, Mountain Gorillas and Chimpanzees. Q&A with filmmaker Michael Dillon. Adult tickets include a glass of wine, tea or coffee. Supporting 1st Woodend Scouts. events.humanitix.com/walking-with-thegreat-apes

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. sunburylbc@gmail.com

all things arty. Pop into the new facilities at the Artrise Precinct, Jacksons Hill. The group currently meets on Fridays & Saturdays 10am-3pm. New members and beginners most welcome.

www.sunburyartsociety.com

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Thin Ozone studio, which is holding a Japanese drumming event in Footscray. Pictured: Gerda Widjaja, Sayako Ohno, Alejandra Díaz and Junko Sakamoto. (Damjan Janevski) 537660_01

Montage, Cut and Paste

During this free event Diane Garrett, an experienced teacher and montage producer, will show how simple materials can achieve creative results. BYO scissors and any paper images you may want to use, the rest is provided. On 14 March and 21 March from 9.30am to 12.30pm at the Kyneton Library. 5422 1365

Sunbury Art Society

Join the SAS group and share your love for

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

Toastmasters

Sunbury and 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 Community Centre, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

Sunbury Ladies Probus Club

The Sunbury Ladies Probus Club meets at 9.45am on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Sunbury Football Social Club rooms. Pat, 0433 789 754, or Sylvia, 0417 170 142

Rotary club

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

Sunbury Combined Probus Club

The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 10.30am. Jo, 0410 834 272

Dr Lou of Paws In Peace is a local veterinarian with 27 years experience, dedicated to providing gentle, in-home euthanasia for pets.

With compassion and respect, Dr Lou supports both patients and their families, allowing everyone the opportunity to say goodbye calmly and privately in the comfort of

A full aftercare service is also available.

For more information, visit www.pawsinpeace.com.au or call 0412 866 036.

Heritage Woven Wire & Gates are Powdercoated in 8 standard colours.

They are also available in a galvanised finish. Gates come in 7 different pedestrian and driveway styles.

For your local distributor please call: 1300 360 082

Fax: (03) 9308 5822

Email: sales@emuwire.com.au • www.emuwire.com.au

Dr. Tony Stubbs Eye Surgeon

Dr. Tony Stubbs, Eye Surgeon, says that just about anyone can have their vision restored and be rid of their glasses for most of the time. And this is without the use of laser surgery. Dr Stubbs formerly at the Royal Victorian Eye Hospital who has worked with the Fred Hollows eye department at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Sydney, says he began his career through the inspiration of his father, Dr Maxwell Stubbs.

“My father was a pioneer in cataract implant surgery from 1963! He has now passed away but some of his patients still come in for a check-up. Not only is this inspirational, it also demonstrates that good surgery outlasts the surgeon,” Dr Stubbs says.

A specialist who helps people who have been advised they are unsuitable for laser surgery, Dr Stubbs is also committed to demonstrating that age, corneal distortion or astigmatism are no barriers to eliminating the need for glasses.

One of my best moments was treating a 12-year-old girl who was struggling at school because of poor vision due to congenital cataracts even with the use of thick glasses. Now 10 years later, she still has 20/20 vision without glasses. That inspires me.

“Seeing my patients’ bright smiles after surgery, as they stop squinting and can read without glasses, is definitely the best part of my job.”

No referral is needed and no out-of-pocket expenses are incurred for an assessment to enable all options available to be considered.

IMPOUNDED LIVESTOCK

Impounded by Hume City Council City Laws Officers on Monday 19th January 2026 at 1:00pm, from Cooinda Avenue Mickleham Vic 3064. 2 Male polled Dorset Sheep, With ear tags 3MRON155- XST00179 and 3GGHH154- ASR00871. If these animals are not claimed and all associated costs paid, the above animals will be sold or disposed of on Friday 20th March 2026 by public auction at Kyneton Saleyards, Cnr. Edgecombe and Saleyards Road, Kyneton VIC 3444. Any inquiries relating to the above should be made to City Laws Dept, Hume City Council on 9205 2200.

MOUNT MACEDON WAR MEMORIAL CROSS RESERVE INCORPORATED (A005955)

Victoria NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING

Notice is given that a Public Meeting will be held:

Location: Parks Victoria Headquarters Nursery Road, Macedon VIC

Date: Monday 23 March 2026

Time: 10:00am – 11:00am

The purpose of this meeting is to nominate no fewer than three (3) and no more than nine (9) persons for appointment to the Committee of Management for the Mount Macedon War Memorial Cross Reserve Incorporated for a term of three (3) years.

The current committee’s term expires on 12 May 2026, and all positions will be declared open. These positions are honorary volunteer positions responsible for the governance and stewardship of the Mount Macedon War Memorial Cross Reserve.

Persons interested in nominating must complete a Nomination Form and Nominee Declaration Form prior to the meeting.

Completed forms should be submitted to the Secretary before the meeting. Nomination forms can be requested by contacting the Secretary. Nominees should have an interest in supporting the preservation, management and community stewardship of this important memorial reserve and bring relevant skills and experience to the committee. For nomination forms or further enquiries please contact: Secretary – Mount Macedon War Memorial Cross Reserve

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part time Sales Executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

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

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

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

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

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

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.

1 Assimilate (6) 4 Leads an orchestra (8)

Complementary item (9)

Throw (5)

Chits (abbr) (4)

Message (4)

Colouring matter (5)

Humming sound (4)

Musician, Jim – (8) 20 Provided (8)

Declare (4) 25 Beautiful maiden in Muslim paradise (5) 26 Web addresses (abbr) (4)

Black mineral (4)

Hat (5)

Harmony (9)

Gifted (8)

1 A Middle Eastern language (6)

8 An instance of seeing something (8) 9 Minute skin opening (4) 15 Central Asian nation (10) 18 Ban (8) 19 Embezzle money (8) 21 Unbiased (7)

23 Forest workers (7) 24 English city on the River Exe (6)

27 Old stringed instrument (4)

29 Self-referential (4)

3 LETTERS

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

Today’s Aim:

17 words: Good 26 words: Very good 34 words: Excellent

N I T C O P L

4 LETTERS AVOS AYES BASS BUSS EKES EVIL FADE FADS LEGS LOSS PEON SEWS SODA SWAP VERY

5 LETTERS ACING AGENT AGREE ALONE ANGLE AREN’T AROSE ASKEW ASSET

toil, tonic, topic, tulip, tunic, unclip, uncoil, unit, unlit, until

picot, pilot, pint, pinto, piton, point, politic, PUNCTILIO,

1 Steve Carell (pictured) and Timothée Chalamet play father and son in which 2018 film?

2 What is the title of celebrity chef Jamie Oliver’s debut cookbook, released in 1999?

3 Convallaria majalis is a woodland flowering plant better known by what name?

4 Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats was based on the 1939 poetry collection Old Possum’s Book ofPracticalCats by which author?

5 In which year did construction on the Sydney Harbour Bridge commence?

6 If something is ephemeral, it is what?

7 Which four African countries border the Red Sea?

8 Which band released the 2010 album The Suburbs?

9 What is the name given to the Catalonian sauce made from tomato, garlic, nuts and capsicum?

10 Who wrote the 1985 novel OrangesAreNottheOnly Fruit?

Is H7 aimed at ‘blokes’?

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

Haval has gone for a rugged, almost retro-look with its new the mid-sized H7 Hybrid, emphasised by bolt-on mudguard flares.

Well,theylookliketheybolton,butdespite the rugged exterior it is actually front-wheel drive and shares its underpinnings with the softer H6 plug-in hybrid that we tested recently – though you can’t plug this one in. Which is kinda funny, we had planned to grab a charge spot across the road from the Orpheum Theatre in crowded Cremorne –until we discovered it doesn’t have a charge port.

Nope.PlanBturnedouttobearatherlong hikebacktothetheatreandalonglinetoget in.

In any case, H7 is designed to bridge the gap between the H6 and larger Tank 300 (which is designed to go off-road with low-range four-wheel drive).

Haval claims the H7 strikes the perfect balance between weekend adventure and everyday versatility, and it has the best-selling Toyota RAV4 in its crosshairs.

Styling

There’s just the one H7 Vanta HEV, priced from $44,990 plus on-road costs, although there’s talk of an AWD and PHEV to come.

That’s only $5000 more than the similarly-equipped H6 Ultra HEV. Any colour but white adds $495 to the price.

H7’s squared-off proportions and upright stance create a rugged appearance, with assertive design elements like the round LEDheadlightsandabold,squared-offface.

Thegrilleandroundheadlightsremindus of something (an early Mitsubishi perhaps) while the hanging tail lights channel those of the Mazda CX-3 and CX-30.

Add to this 19-inch machined alloy wheels and a suite of blacked-out finishes, including the badging, front grille, mirror caps,windowtrims,roofrailsandtaillights.

Standard equipment includes artificial leatherwithrealleathergarnishes,two-zone climate air with rear outlets, a heated steering wheel, power-adjustable heated and cooled front seats, with driver-seat memory.

There are also 19-inch alloys, with 235/60 profile tyres, push-button start, adaptive cruise control, head-up display, auto high beam, traffic sign recognition, LED lights all-round, auto lights and wipers, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, front and rear parking sensors, rear privacy glass, with side blinds, along with an electric tailgate and electric, panoramic sunroof.

Not to mention push-button, automatic parking.

H7isconvertedbyaseven-yearunlimited kilometrewarranty,alongwithaneight-year unlimited-kilometrebatterypackwarranty.

There’s also five-year roadside assistance and five-year capped price servicing.

Infotainment

Infotainment consists of a 14.6-inch touchscreen powered by the GWM’s Coffee OS.

There’s Bluetooth, voice control, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, plus eight-speaker audio – but alas no built-in satellite navigation.

For that the general idea is to use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, depending on your poison – both connect wirelessly.

Two USB-A ports are provided, one in front and another in the rear, plus a 12-volt socket in the front, along with wireless phone charging.

It also misses out on telematics which

The H7 looks like it will go off road, but really doesn’t have the necessary credentials (Pictures: Supplied)

provide remote access and control of various vehicle functions.

Safety

H7 carries a full five-star safety rating from ANCAP. However, during the full-width frontal test, the head restraint dislodged from the driver’s seat back.

While ANCAP says this does not affect scoring under 2023-2025 rating criteria, it may increase the risk of injury to the driver.

Asaresult,GWMhasinitiatedavoluntary safetyrecallforvehiclesbuiltbeforeOctober 15, 2025.

Seven airbags are standard, including a centre airbag to stop those in the front from banging heads in a side impact crash.

A 360-degree camera with 180 degree overhead transparent chassis view is fitted.

Autonomous emergency braking applies to car-to-car, vulnerable road user and junction assist scenarios.

There are also blind spot alert and a lane support system with lane keep assist, lane departure warning, and emergency lane keeping,plusanadvancedspeedassistance system that keeps to current speed limits. Head-up display is part of the deal, but as we have pointed out on many occasions it does not work very well if you happen to wear polarised sunglasses.

Engines/transmissions

The self-charging hybrid powertrain is the same as that in the H6 and produces 179kW of power and 530Nm of torque in front-wheel drive form, with a dual-speed dedicated hybrid transmission.

Driving Inside the H7

blends versatility, comfort,

andtechnologytosupportanactivelifestyle.

The boxy, upright design and five-seat configuration deliver plenty of head and shoulder room, along with excellent visibility.

A removable boot floor reveals a tyre repair kit but no spare wheel in the event of a puncture – not very off-roady.

But Haval reckons you can use the boot floor as a picnic table – we’d like to see that.

Pseudo studs reinforce the utilitarian feel inside,withadigitalinstrumentclusterthat is inset rather than freestanding.

A forward-tilted top section displays the current gear but little else, while its major role appears to be as a sunshade for the lower section. Smart thinking.

A panoramic sunroof has a retractable shade that is power operated.

With a 61-litre fuel tank, it takes standard 91unleaded,withclaimedfuelconsumption of5.7L/100kmandaCO2outputof131g/km. We were getting 7.1L/100km after 450km of driving.

There’s the usual drive mode options: Normal, Eco, Sport or Snow.

Steeringweightcanalsobeadjusted,with comfortable, sport or light settings.

The regenerative braking also adjusts, right down to one-pedal driving, although it does not bring the vehicle to a complete stop.

With plenty of torque, the H7 gets up and going pretty smartly, with well weightedsteering,butbrakesthatarealittle touchy.

Althoughtheridequalityisnotasgoodas the Australian-tuned H6 PHEV, it’s not too bad either.

With 210mm of ground clearance, it rides a bit higher than the H6 and as such

doesn’t handle as well, but again it’s okay for an SUV.

Front-wheel drive means dirt roads are okay, but we wouldn’t be taking it any further off road than that.

More worrying was the throttle which failed to respond at all for two or three seconds when we punched the accelerator hard on two occasions.

Obviously, this could become an issue in some situations.

Lots of beeps and warnings from drive assist, but not as bad as some.

The eight-speaker sound system is interesting, with a DTS setting that makes a huge difference to the sound quality, so be sure to tick it. But getting the volume right can be an issue.

There are no physical controls provided, and control from the steering wheel is a bit hit and miss – perhaps missing?

Fortunately hitting the mute button brings up a slider on the touchscreen after you un-mute it, allowing the volume to be adjusted.

It does leave the front passenger at a loose end, however.

There’s no physical controls for the air-conditioning either.

Summing up

You get the feeling the H7 is targeted at blokes.

My wife wasn’t fussed on the styling, but styling is as they say a very personal thing. Other than the minor quibbles that we have identified and lack of satellite navigation, it looks like being another winner for Great Wall which incidentally is doingagreatjobrespondingtothedemands of the market.

Finals action aplenty

There was plenty of finals action across Melbourne’s north-west on Saturday. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting some of the action.

Warriors seek consistency

By Tara Murray

The Western Warriors are hoping a bit more consistency will push them into the Victorian Netball League finals for the first time.

The Warriors have finished with six wins in each of their first two seasons but have struggled to match it week in, week out.

Last season they dropped several games that they should have won.

Warriors coach Kim Bailey said they had looked to add some more depth across the court.

“It’s really exciting and it’s been a long pre-season,” she said. “We’re ready to go.

“We’re looking pretty good and I think we have strengthened our defence line.

“Megan Allen will make a big difference in regards to physicality.

“Finn [Fionnuala Mckeagney-Stubbs ] adds a different dimension in the defence line as well.

“Mia Lavis in attack has been working really hard with Kim Borger. Kali Dolphin has been incredible in the mid-court and I’m excited to see what she can do.”

Borger had announced her retirement from VNL after last season, but will play this season as well as being an assistant coach for the 23 and unders.

She will replace Rebecca Hicks who can’t commit to playing after moving to the country.

“Kim came out of retirement to help us,” Bailey said.

“Her fitness is the best I’ve seen in a

long time. There’s more different combinations with her and Mia and there has been a really good success.

“It’s always been seamless with her and Poppy [Douglass].”

Bailey said having Ruby Shannon back at full fitness would help them massively in the midcourt after she missed several weeks with an ankle injury last year.

Olivia Ellis is another who will return from injury and help the defensive midcourt position.

Allen makes the move from England to play for the Warriors, having played in the English Netball Super League.

“She sent out an email saying she wanted to come out and play and did we have any spots,” Bailey said.

“We had a couple of chats on teams

Jets give local players a platform to shine

By Tara Murray

It’s a focus on local talent for the Sunbury Jets in the Big V women’s championship division this season.

The Jets will suit up without any imports, giving locals from around the area the opportunity to shine.

New Jets coach Deb Coulson said at the club’s media day that she was excited to get started.

“We’re ready to go and I want to get out on the court,” she said.

“We’ve kept the majority of last year’s squad and there’s a lot of home grown local Sunbury girls which is amazing.

“It is great and everyone has got the ability to step up. It’s quite amazing to keep it local with that playing group.”

Headlining the new signings for the Jets is Chloe Hildebrand.

Hildebrand is no stranger to the Jets and returns after a season at National Basketball League 1 competition with Mt Gambier Pioneers.

In her last season with the Jets, she averaged 18.39 points and nearly four assists pergame,bothtopfiveinthecompetition.

Coulson said she had known Chloe for a number of years but had never coached her.

She said she’s expecting her to have a strong season.

Kayla Salmons is another who brings NBL1 experience having recently played with Eltham, while Mikayla Peterson was at Ringwood.

Ally Keating, who hasn’t played basketball for a couple of seasons, also brings NBL1 experience the Jets.

Coulson said she was finding a real community based club.

“I’m really enjoying it getting around to the junior program this morning, it has been very welcoming,”she said.

Olivia Ogston is another returning player to the Jets and will play across the youth league and championship sides.

She scored 24 points as the youth leaguesidequalifiedforyouthleague1for this year after winning in the qualifying games.

GraceCooperandCaraBeattiewillalso play across both sides.

“It is amazing and I’ve had a great opportunitywithyouthleagueandI’vetaken a couple of trainings and coached them in a practice game and got to know them,” she said.

“Livhittingsixthreeswasamazing,seeing Grace as well in action and Cara.

“The youth league going up to division 1 was part of all our pre-season plans.”

Coulson said it had been hard to get some background on the playing group due to the lack of consistency the past

couple of seasons.

She said they had put together a solid group that was committed and she couldn’t see that falling away.

Speaking before their first practice match, Coulson said she will get more idea of the group in the coming weeks.

and watched some footage and it was very impressive.

“We’ve been delighted with how she has fitted in with the group.”

The Warriors have a number of practice matches lined up before the season gets underway on 11 March.

Bailey said consistency would be the biggest key for them.

“We need to make sure to get over the line in close games to make finals,” she said.

“We know we can make finals.

“We know how to buckle down and do what we need to do.”

Meanwhile, Bailey said they had kept the core group of their under-23s together and added some more depth.

Sharks add depth to their div 1 list

Rupertswood has added three more pieces to the puzzle ahead of the Essendon District Football League division 1 season.

Frank Gill joins the club from Casterton where he played across the senior and under-18 programs.

The Sharks said he brings with him the toughness, talent, and competitiveness.

“A natural key defender, Frank has risen through the Hamilton pathway, showcasing his ability in the Football Vic development competitions before earning a well-deserved senior debut in 2025,” he said. “His football journey is backed by a family rich in footy tradition — and we’re proud that he’s chosen to continue that legacy with us.

“Frank’s professionalism, growth mindset, and on-field presence make him an exciting addition to our squad.”

Joey Barham joins the Sharks adding to a proud family legacy in the game. He has played nearly 50 senior games with Macedon in the Riddell District Football League.

The Sharks said he had showcased consistency, leadership and a strong competitive edge.

“His junior pathway includes time with the Calder Cannons under-16s, and he captained the Salesian College under-17 premiership side, highlighting his natural leadership qualities.

“Joey has also represented at under-19 interleague level, proving himself against some of the best young talent going around. His dad, Jamie, and uncle, Billy, both played VFL-AFL for Melbourne. His Uncle, Ricky, played 151 AFL games for Collingwood. Joey now continues that tradition at the tank, and we can’t wait to see the impact he makes in the yellow and blue.”

The Sharks also announced they had signed Jordan Flanigan.

The club said he had spent a significant amount of time away from footy and that he’s a crafty tall mobile goal kicker but can hold up at either end of the ground

“We will take the season head on and hopefully make finals and to be there.

“The way that they’ve bonded with some new additions has been amazing.

“It’s super exciting.”

TheJetswillkickofftheirseasonagainst the Hume City Broncos.

The pair join Sean Hetherington Luke and Ethan Sultana, Nick Agnello, Ben Cannon, Ben Borg, Josh Ferraro, Harry Manders, Josh Mackie and Jarrod Ainsworth in joining the Sharks in the off season.

Bulldogs building for 2026

By Tara Murray

Gisborne is excited for the new challenge in the Essendon District Football League women’s competition.

It’s been a big few years for the Bulldogs and they will return to having a standalone side for the first time since 2023.

The club didn’t have a team in 2024 and lastseasonwonthedivision2premiership as Gisborne-Kyneton United having joined forces with Kyneton Women’s. Kyneton Women’s, now under the banner of the Wedge-Tailed Eagles, is fielding its own side in the Central Victoria Football League this season.

Bulldogs coach Bernie Marantelli said

they were working hard behind the scenes to get some good numbers on board for this season.

“It’s pretty good and it’s starting to take shape,” she said. “It’s starting to look a bit better.

“Wehavebeentrainingwiththeseniors and under-19s and we have got some healthy numbers.

“It would be great to have some additional players.”

Marantelli said they are working on a number of strategies to get more players on board from letter box drops to holding clinics at local schools.

She said they had recruited some playersfromotherclubstohelpstrengthen the core group they had.

Marantelli said they had to look to replace the players who are playing with the Wedge-Tailed Eagles this season, with a core group part of the premiership side.

Among the signings Madison Lawer and Maisy Crowther have both crossed from Romsey.

Lawer, who was Romsey’s captain, is a defender-midfielder who was up there in the tackle count in the Riddell District Football League last season.

Amelie Ceh has also put in clearance to join the Bulldogs

The Bulldogs have also promoted some players from their under-19s.

Marantelli said Cheyene Macumber was set to play again, which was a bonus. She was one of the best in the grand final.

Macedon lock in Meldrum for two years

By Tara Murray

Macedon coach Al Meldrum said it was an easy decision to extend his time in charge of the Riddell District Football League club by another two seasons.

Meldrum was already contracted for the 2026 season but has put pen to paper to coach the club until at least the end of 2028.

“I’m rapt,” he said. “I’m really enjoying it.

“I’m wary that every role has a shelf life and I wanted to make sure others were feeling the same vibe.

“I asked for a lot of feedback from a whole bunch of people and it was really positive.”

Meldrum said they had seen improvement in the past few seasons and he was keen to continue that and further grow as a coach.

He said since he’d taken over they’d gone from no under-19s to winning two premierships in that time frame and many of those guys now had 40-50 games under their belts which was exciting.

“That has really worked for a club and

town like Macedon,” he said.

“It’s helped the reserves and the whole pathway program.”

The Cats enter 2026 coming off the back of a grand final after a preliminary final the season before.

Meldrum said they were a better side than they were 12 months ago, but is under no illusions that they still have to get better.

“We had a lot of luck,” he said. “We finished fifth on the ladder and ended up getting the double chance

“We lost to Riddell by eight points in the second semi final in a tough game and then the preliminary final could have gone either way.

“In the grand final I thought we were going to lose by 100 points at quarter time, the way the boys stuck at it was really good

“The premiership was staring us in the face but we weren’t quite there.

“We have to be a better home and away side,itwas10weeksstraightoffinalsbefore we even got to finals.”

Meldrum said they hoped the group would harness the experience of last

Marantelli said the biggest thing for them was making sure they had a pathway in place for the female program.

“We really want to make sure we have a senior side on the park,” she said. “We want to see the growth and development of our under-16s and under-19s.

“It’s a crucial pathway. We’ve got a few irons in the fire and we will continue to work hard for the next four to six weeks.

The fixture for the Bulldogs season is yet to be released.

The club is having a come and try session on 10 March and then a half day training session on 14 March with new players welcome.

Anyone interested can contact, Bernie on 0409 554 141.

Dockerty Cup

Sunbury United’s opponent for the third round of the Dockerty Cup-Australia Cup has been revealed. Sunsbury started its campaign in round two where it was able to beat Laverton 4-0. Sunbury scored in the first minute of the game and build momentum throughout. Sunbury will face Strathmore in round three on the weekend of 14 March.

RDFL

The Gisborne Giants have signed Alex Grigg for the Riddell District Football League season. Grigg joins the club from Point Cook and Laverton in the Western Football League. He is a 2018 premiership player with Point Cook and and won Laverton’s 2025 best and fairest. “He brings both success and consistency to our program,” the Giants said. “Standing at 6’4”, Alex offers versatility and presence at either end of the ground. We look forward to the impact he will make in Giants colours this season.”

Talent League

season to help them grow this season.

The Cats did most of their recruiting early in the off season.

Meldrum said with some they didn’t have to do a lot of work as they already had connections at the club.

“We’ve bought in players that we know can make an impact quickly,” he said. “They’ve done that elsewhere.

“They’ve all been around the block and played a lot of footy and have a lot of leadership behind them.

“They’ll help bring the young guys along on the trip with them.”

Josh Govan joins his brother and Cats captain Hamish Govan at the club after moving back to Victoria.

Harrison Huntley crosses from Kyneton to play with the Govans.

Leigh Brennan will provide a target up forward and Jack Landt will be another important player for the Cats.

Meldrum said they had three practice matches lined up before their season kicks off on Good Friday against Gisborne Giants.

The Calder Cannons have announced their under-18 girls squad for the Talent League season. A 39 player squad was revealed by the Cannons on Tuesday night following the side’s jumper presentation. The squad has a mixture of new and returning players. Among the squad are Macedon’s Sian Andrews and Kalea Brodie and Gisborne’s Chloe Bullen, Kate Apps and Lauren Boukouras. Former Sunbury Lions Eden Grant is also in the squad. The Cannons will kick off their season on 11 April against Sandringham Dragons.

RDFL

Romsey has signed Josh Crump for the Riddell District Football League season after a break out season with East Sunbury last season. Crump played 13 games for East Sunbury including kicking seven goals in a best on ground performance in round one against the Sunbury Kangaroos. He kicked 10 goals for the season and named in the best three times having played further up the group

Gisborne women through to grand final

By Tara Murray

Gisborne will face off in its first grand final since rebuilding its women’s program in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association.

The Dragons have built the last couple of seasons and on Sunday won through to the final game of the season.

Captain-coach Brianna Woodburn said it was pretty exciting for the group.

“We’re really excited and I think the girls deserve it,” she said.

“We were excited to get the win today [Sunday] and keen to take on Wallan.”

Woodburn said much of the group that had helped the side reform was part of the group there now.

She said they had focused on building a really good culture and they were reaping the rewards on field.

On Sunday, the Dragons faced Bacchus Marsh in the semi finals on Sunday.

Bullsmade8-96fromtheir30overs.Emily McDonald took 3-9 for the Dragons.

Woodburn said keeping them under 100 wasmassivefortheconfidenceofthegroup.

“I said to the girls if at the start of the day that was what they made, we would have been really happy,” she said.

“ButwesawwhathappenedwithBacchus Marshlastweekandcricketisafunnygame.

“We were confident and knew that we could get the job done if we were still there at the end of the 30 overs.”

The Dragons top order got the job done, finishing 1-99 in 21 overs.

Brianna Woodburn and Ruby Watts were the unbeaten bats with Watts on 37 not out and Woodburn on 32 not out.

Woodburn said the top order wanted to provide a stepping stone for the rest of the innings and take the pressure off everyone else.

The Dragons now face Wallan, which is playing off in its first women’s grand final.

Woodburn said the Magpies had done a lot right to get to this stage.

“Whoever plays the best cricket on the day will win the flag,” she said.

“We don’t take it for granted and will give it our best shot.

“It would be nice to bring the flag back to Gisborne. As long as we give it our best shot we will be happy with that.”

Wallan won through to the grand final with a big win against Lancefield Black.

The Tigers made 7-88 with Wallan finishing 1-89 in reply.

Meanwhile in the B-grade competition, Lancefield Yellow will face Melton Centrals in the grand final.

Lancefield proved too strong for East Sunbury.

The Thunder made 4-99 from its overs with Rhianna Kirk and Lauren De Veth top scoring with 22.

Evie Fish and Olivia Goodes took two wickets each.

The Tigers top order got the job done, finishing 0-102 off 12.4 overs.

EmilyConsigliotopscoredwith50retired not out.

Melton Centrals beat Broadford in the other semi final.

Riddell’s big win

By Tara Murray

Riddell saved its best to last to claim the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shield premiership on Saturday.

Twelve months after falling short on the final day of the season, the Bombers were clinical in Saturday’s grand final against Rupertswood.

While Rupo’s third XI had some moments in the grand final, it was the Bombers’ day at Riddells Creek Recreation Reserve.

Bombers’ president Brendon Johnson said it was a special day for the club.

“It was really satisfying,” he said. “We played amazing.

“We had a few lean years in Johnstone Shield and made the hard decision to go down to Jensen Shield and build from there.

“We had four teenagers in the team which was fantastic.”

Rupertswood won the toss and decided to bat first.

Johnson said they got off to a really good start before they were able to peg them back.

After being 0-27, Rupo was bowled out

for 71 in just the 27th over as wickets fell quickly.

Luke Castle took 3-8 off his six overs, while Thomas Wadden took three wickets in an over as he took 3-15 off his five overs.

Bruce Marshall top scored with 18 for Rupo with four teammates getting ducks.

Rupo then started well with the ball and had both Castle brothers, Luke and Hayden, back in the sheds with the score 2-8.

“We had a nervous start,” Johnson admits. “Rupertswood was bowling really well.

“Peter Cashen and Harry Fisher buckled down and worked hard to add a few runs to the total.”

ThepairgotthejobdonefortheBombers as they hit the winning runs in the 25th over, finishing 2-72.

Cashen top scored with 36 not out, while Fisher finished 18 not out.

Wadden was named best on ground by the umpires for his bowling performance.

“He’s the youngest guy in the team,” Johnson said. “He got three in an over which was a fantastic job.

“He’s played under-15s at Riddell and his dad and uncle are famous players at

Roar knocked out

Sunbury’s Victorian Turf Cricket AssociationMcNamaraShieldseason has come to an end in the semi finals.

Playing finals for the first time in the division 2 competition, the Roar faced Williamstown CYMS on the weekend.

The last time the two teams played, the Roar won by two runs.

This time it was the CYs who came out on top and set up a Williamstown derby in the grand final.

The CYs won the toss and decided to bat in overcast conditions

The CYs made 260 as they were bowled out in the 78th over.

Jason McGann took 4-59 for the Roar, including some early wickets to put the CYs under pressure.

The Roar had a tough start with the bat on Sunday, losing three early wickets.

While in trouble, the Roar’s middle order showed some resistance but no one was able to go on with it.

Thomas King, Indika Massalage and Jason McGann all reached the 20s before going out.

Jack Narraway dug in deep and faced a lot of balls as he tried to pull out a miracle for the Roar with the lower order.

The lower order tried to stick around but they struggled to get the runs on the board needed.

Riddell. The next generation is coming through.”

After some big celebrations, the Bombers will turn their attention to a new challenge next season.

The club is set to return to the Johnstone Shield competition next season.

Johnson said they were looking forward to that challenge.

“We’ll work hard in the off season and secure a couple more recruits so our first and second XIs are as strong as possible.

“We’ll look to maybe have a third side in the lower grades.”

Meanwhile in the Johnstone Shield, the Sunbury Kangaroos sealed the last finals spot.

The Kangaroos and East Sunbury both had a chance to finish in the top four defending on final round results.

The Kangaroos bowled Kilmore out for 143 before getting the runs six down to take the win.

With East Sunbury losing to Harkness, it meant the Kangaroos moved into the top four.

Eastern Hill will face Kilmore in one semi final and Diggers Rest Bulla will host the Kangaroos in the other.

The Roar was bowled out for 148 in the 64th over with the last two wickets being run outs.

Narraway top scored with 33 not out off 104 balls.

Williamstown CYMS will now face Williamstown Imperials in the grand final.

For more on Sunbury’s season, head to www.starweekly.com.au