Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 24th March 2026

Lost no more

The Lost Trades Fair has found its way back home to the Macedon Ranges. The fair is getting ready to takeover Hanging Rock on 28-29 March, with plenty panned to see and do. Find out more about what to expect on page 17.

Intersection audit

By Georgia Tacey

Macedon Ranges council has commissioned an independent road safety audit at a notorious Newham intersection following a fatal accident and community advocacy.

In early February, a Kyneton man died and a Malmsbury man was seriously injured following a collision between a car andtruckattheintersectionofThreeChain Road and Egans Lane in Newham.

The accident renewed calls for safety changes, including reducing the 100km/h limit to 80km/h at the intersection.

A petition on the issue was started by Newham residents and reached almost 800

signatures in the past three weeks.

Newham resident Jo Thomson has been callingforimprovementsattheintersection for years.

“We did not envisage it would be so difficulttogetthespeedlimitatadangerous intersection reduced by 20 km/h and flashing lights put up,” she said.

“Ithasbeenan emotionallyhard exercise to keep a record and photograph multiple accidents at the intersection over the past few years. All of this has been presented to the [council].”

Ms Thomson worries the scope of the audit–whichcouncilsaidwillassesstraffic movements, sight lines, road layout and overall intersection performance – won’t

tparents’ biggest concern; their children gettingonandoffthebusattheintersection.

“The B-Double trucks are continuing to travel at 100 km/h down a hill towards vulnerable children boarding school buses,” she said. “Cyclists recently took part in a women’s all abilities bike ride through the intersection. We feared for their lives watching them travel through the intersection.

“We ask, how long does it take to make a change that protects our kids and our community?”

Council assets and operations director Dom Testoni confirmed the audit is underway, and will help council determine whether “any changes or upgrades should

be considered”.

“Council will share key findings and any proposed actions with the community once the review is complete. We appreciate the feedback received from the local community about making this intersection safer and are moving quickly through this assessment process.”

Mr Testoni said council will continue discussing speed limit changes with the Department of Transport and Planning.

But Ms Thomson said she remains worried about what will happen as council continues to investigate.

“Every day is too long to wait. There will beanotheraccidentifsomethingisn’tdone. It is just a matter of time.”

Duplication call renewed

By Georgia Tacey

A Hume councillor has called for council to continue its advocacy for the “critical and long overdue” full duplication of Sunbury Road.

At the 23 February council meeting, Cr Kate Hamley spoke on correspondence received by council from Western Metropolitan MP Trung Luu about his calls for the Sunbury Road duplication in parliament.

Mr Luu wrote to council to inform it that he had called on the Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne to advocate for funding to develop a business case for the duplication of Sunbury Road from Bul-

la-Diggers Rest Road to Melbourne Airport. He said while the recently completed duplication of Sunbury Road from Powlett Street in Sunbury and Bulla-Diggers Rest Road was welcome, it was creating bottlenecks in Bulla.

“If further investment is not made to duplicate this section from Bulla to Melbourne Airport, congestion will only worsen,” he said.

In Ms Horne’s response in parliament, she said the Victorian Infrastructure Development Authority (VIDA) Roads has completed planning work for the potential duplication of Sunbury Road and the Bulla Bypass, including a business case that pro-

vided a “detailed examination of potential futurebypassoptionstoinformgovernment decision-making” which Cr Hamley said doesn’t cover the full duplication.

“Sunbury Road carries a whopping 20,000 vehicles a day and is currently a single carriageway road from Melbourne Airport to just after the Bulla Bridge. It’s also a major source of frustration for residents of Sunbury and Bulla,” she said.

Cr Hamley said the business case, completed in 2022 by VIDA, does not include a timeline for delivery.

A council spokesperson said Hume will continuetoadvocateforbothprojectstothe state government.

Toastmasters celebrate 1000 meetings

The Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Toastmasters is gearing up for a milestone meeting.

The club is about to celebrate its 1000th meeting at the start of April, with two events planned for the group.

On Tuesday 7 April from 7-9pm, the club will meet for its usual meeting to mark the 1000th, before coming back together on Saturday 11 April from 1.304pm to celebrate the club and the milestone.

President Darryl O’Reilly said it will be a great opportunity for new and old members to come together and cele-

brate the history of the club.

“It’s really exciting because when you think back about how many people through the local community have passed through the doors of the Toastmasters club over those years … even if they only attended a couple of meetings to help them with a little bit of confidence,” he said.

The club started back in Sunbury around the 1980’s, and Mr O’Reilly said the celebration will be a chance for the whole community to come along and support the club.

“On April 7, it’s as close as possible to

a normal club meeting,” he said.

“We’re having our four district directors coming up for the meeting.

“On Saturday the 11th, it’s a bit more informal and we’re having people from across Melbourne coming up also that have been members for many years.”

It will also be an opportunity for the community to find out more about the club, and how it builds confidence through public speaking.

Both the 1000th meeting and celebration will be held at the Sunbury Seniors Hub.

Registration is required for catering.

Grants flow for Ranges kindergartens to improve playgrounds

More accessible and inclusive play equipment is coming to Macedon Ranges kindergartens, following the latest round of grants from the state government.

Children Minister Lizzie Blandthorn and Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas announced more than $6.2 million was awarded for kindergartens across the state to create safe, accessible spaces and buy IT equipment to engage children of all abilities.

Grants of up to $10,000 were available to buy equipment such as adjustable furniture, mobility stools and sensory resources.

Rothschild Road Kindergarten at Willowbank Primary School in Gisborne was awarded $9613 to purchase equipment and

resources that support imaginative play andinteractionswithotherchildren,sensory play, self-regulation, the development of gross and fine motor skills, language development, and connection with the outdoors.

Goodstart Early Learning in Kyneton received $9804, which will go towards the purchase of an outdoor climb and slide package, including a slide, riverbank climbing wall, Beaverlodge climber range and four types of planks.

More than $1.5 million of the grants will help fund computers, tablets and televisions for educational programs and service administration as part of the grants stream, which more than 10 Macedon Ranges kindergartens have benefited from.

“The duplication of Sunbury Road and delivery of the Bulla Bypass remain critical priorities for Hume City Council due to the significant role this corridor plays in supporting local communities, freight movements, and access to Melbourne Airport, as well as accommodating continued population and employment growth in the northwest,” the spokesperson said.

A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said the department would continue to plan for the Bulla Bypass, however did not mention if the full duplication of Sunbury Road was also planned.

DTP said no funding is currently committed to the bypass.

Mining sparks park conservation fears

Fresh gold exploration drilling in the Wombat State Forest has reignited community concern, with local conservation group Wombat Forestcare warning the state government must urgently deliver long-promised park protections before mining rights advance further.

Exploration is underway along Yankee Road, south-east of Trentham, in a section of forest which remains classified as state forest.

The licence is held by Platquest Resources Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of Adelong Gold, with the area sitting just outside the newly legislated Wombat-Lerdederg National Park, which has yet to be converted into regional parkland as previously pledged.

The exploration site lies in the headwaters of creeks flowing into the heritage-listed Lerdederg River and Wombat Forestcare spokesperson Gayle Osborne said approving a mine in that catchment would be “totally inappropriate”.

Mrs Osoborne said the group was “very concerned” about the implications if commercially viable gold is discovered before protections are put in place.

The state government previously accepted recommendations from the Victorian Environmental Assessment Council to create regional parks and reserves across the central western part of Victoria, including about 20,000 hectares of the Wombat Forest.

However, Mrs Osborne said four years after an agreement in June 2021, the changes had not been finalised.

“The length of time creating these regional parks is quite disturbing,” she said.

“It’s been a very, very slow process to get the protections that the forest deserves.”

A state government spokesperson said the government was creating the Mount Buangor, Pyrenees and Wombat-Lerderderg national parks, the Cobaw and Hepburn conservation parks and expanding the Bendigo Regional Park.

Those benefiting included Macedon Ranges Montessori and Riddells Creek kindergartens in Riddells Creek, Swinburne Avenue Children’s Centre and Manna Gum Family and Children’s Centre in Gisborne, Lancefield Children’s Centre, Macedon Kindergarten, Romsey and Woodend kindergartens; and Goodstart Early Learning Centres in Woodend, Kyneton, New Gisborne and Riddells Creek, which all received grants of up to $2000.

Ms Thomas welcomed the grants for the community.

“Our investment means better learning environments, more accessible facilities and improved experiences for children, families and educators,” she said.

Star Weekly understands the new parks are expected to open by October . Wombat Forestcare is calling on residents to write to Premier Jacinta Allan and Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos urging them to gazette the promised regional parks before the state enters caretaker mode ahead of the election.

“We need the government to move on this now,” Mrs Osborne said.

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action and Adelong Gold were contacted for comment.

Interest not declared by Crs

By Georgia Tacey

Two Hume councillors could be facing fines after failing to submit personal interest returns.

Councillors Kate Hamley and Naim Kurt did not submit their biannual personal interest returns – which discloses councillors’ conflicts of interest – for September 2025.

Under the local government act, councillors must submit the returns so the community can see the shareholdings, trusts, business associations and other private interests of councillors, members of councils’ delegated committees and

key staff identified by the chief executive.

The personal interest returns must be submitted twice yearly – 1-31 March and 1-30 September – and be published on council’s website.

The September personal interest returns published by Hume show that Crs Hamley and Kurt did not submit their returns as of 13 November, 2025.

Cr Hamley told Star Weekly she was not able to complete the September 2025 return within the regulated timeframe due to circumstances outside of her control.

“Transparency and accountability are important to me and I’m sorry for any

concern caused,” she said.

“I’d like to emphasise that I have no reportable interests other than those I’ve previously declared. I will ensure to meet the required timeframes in future.”

She said she completed the March 2025 and March 2026 returns, which has been confirmed by council’s organisational performance director Fadi Srour.

Cr Kurt did not respond to questions from Star Weekly and Mr Srour did not answer questions about whether Cr Kurt had submitted his returns, or if all other councillors had completed their March 2026 returns.

A spokesperson for the Local Govern-

Harvest Festival returns to Selasian College

Salesian College Sunbury students are getting ready to celebrate the school’s Harvest Festival.

The annual event brings together students, families, local businesses and community organisations, transforming the college grounds into a vibrant community atmosphere.

Principal Mark Brockhus said everyone’s invited to come down and see what students have been working on.

“Harvest Festival is a wonderful opportunity to bring the college and wider

Sunbury community together in a relaxed and welcoming environment,” he said.

“It’s not just about entertainment, it’s about connection, and showcasing what makes our community so special.

“From our agriculture program through to curriculum showcases, visitors can see firsthand the opportunities our students experience every day and it’s open to the whole local community, not just Salesian College students and families.”

Entries open for Queerthentic art prize

Submissions are open now for Macedon Ranges Accessible Arts’ regional LGBTQIA+ art exhibition and prize.

In its fourth year, Queerthentic showcases LGBTQIA+ artists and stories from across central Victoria through the annual art exhibition and prize.

Through the exhibition, artists will dive deep into the influence of queer history and culture on the past, present and future, and explore what it means to them.

Queerthentic, run by volunteer-led and queer community-based organisation Macedon Ranges Accessible Arts, is currently accepting submissions for its exhibition, with over $2000 worth of prizes up for grabs.

Regional and rural queer-identifying artists are encouraged to apply with all visual art mediums accepted, including painting, photography, sculpture, tex-

tiles, ceramics and mixed media.

The winner of the art prize will receive $1000 cash, as well as a solo exhibition at The Old Auction House in Kyneton, while the runner up and people’s choice will each receive $500 each.

In 2025, the exhibition was won by Geordie Williamson with his oil painting ‘A Sticky Situation’.

The exhibition will run from 30 April until 25 May at The Old Auction House, with a celebration and winners announced on International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) on Saturday 16 May from 1pm to 3pm.

Submissions to Queerthentic will close on 23 April, with early applications encouraged.

Details: mraai.org.au/queerthentic2026

ment Inspectorate, the body responsible for investigating non-compliance with the act, said the inspectorate may investigate and potentially prosecute specified persons for a failure to comply with legislated personal interests requirements.

The maximum penalty is 60 penalty units ($12,210.60). The spokesperson said the inspectorate may also issue a warning or a penalty notice, with an associated fine of three penalty units ($610.53).

Mr Srour said council will continue to support and remind all councillors of their responsibilities ahead of the next deadline in September.

Diggers Rest hub needs a name

A new children’s and community centre is coming to Diggers Rest, and it needs a name.

The modern space is being built to support the growing needs of the Diggers Rest community and is set to include kindergarten facilities, maternal and child health services, and a first of its kind library lounge for Melton.

The community is currently being called to vote on which naming theme should guide the naming of the new building and to share name suggestions for consideration.

The four naming themes include linking name to place to support connection to the local area, recognition of traditional owners where traditional owner languages are encouraged, promoting gender equality in an aim to create gender-diverse and inclusive places, and commemorative names in honour of those with meaningful contributions to the community.

From 4.30pm to 7.30pm on 27 March, expect to see a wide range of attractions, including food vendors, market stalls, live music performances and interactive activities for all ages.

The school said a key event will be the Agriculture Showcase, where visitors can view the award-winning Corriedale sheep and Hereford cattle, cared for by students as part of the school’s hands-on agricultural program. Produce made on site will also be available for purchase.

Details:https://tinyurl.com/4wyb8e9x

Following voting, a shortlist of name suggestions will then be presented to the community for further consideration.

Voting closes on Friday 3 April, with construction on the new community hub set to begin in August this year and commence by August 2027.

Details: https://tinyurl.com/yexnxt7w

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Crime up in Hume, Ranges

By Georgia Tacey

Crime rose in Hume and Macedon Ranges last year, according to new data from the agency responsible for tracking Victoria’s crime.

In the Macedon Ranges, there were 2620 offences recorded in 2025, up from 2587 offences in 2024.

Kyneton topped the list for highest number of offences, with 723 recorded.

This was followed by Gisborne, Woodend, Riddells Creek and Romsey.

The top crime for the Macedon Ranges

was breach of family violence order, with 362 offences recorded in 2025, an increase from the previous year’s total of 316.

Other theft, criminal damage, steal from a motor vehicle and steal from a retail store all also cracked the top five offences recorded in 2025.

Across Hume, offences rose by 6.6 per cent in 2025, rising to a total of 23,441 offences recorded.

Thiswasupfrom21,981offencesin2024.

Sunbury was ranked third across Hume’s suburbs, recording 2860 offences in 2025, up from the previous year’s total of 2610.

Craigieburn recorded the highest number of offences (4303) followed by Broadmeadows (2860).

AcrossHume,stealingfromamotorvehicle was the top offence recorded (3388), followed by other theft (2228), breach if family violence order (2214), motor vehicle theft (1801) and criminal damage (1582).

Victoria Police regional operations deputy commission Bob Hill said crime across Victoria appears to be stabilising, with 630,592 offences recorded across the state in 2025, an increase of 4.2 per cent.

“With 230,213 different victims of crime,

Engines rev for Rotary Show and Shine

Rotarians are revving their engines as they shift into gear for the annual Show and Shine.

The Rotary Club of Sunbury, in conjunction with Sunbury Classic Car Club and Macedon Ranges District Car Club, is bringing more than 200 classic, vintage and modified cars to Sunbury.

The club will also hold a barbecue on the day, with the Show and Shine helping to support a new program that the

club is offering for Sunbury’s youth.

The Rotary Club of Sunbury for the first time is joining the Rotary Sail TrainingProgramtoofferfourSunburyyouths aged between 15-17 a chance to take to the seas. Setting sail from Port Phillip Bay aboard the tall ship The Enterprise, four Sunbury students will spend four days at sea, learning new life skills and getting hands-on experience handing a ship in an experience fully funded by the

club. The students are set to depart on 11 April, and Rotarian Bob Walters said he was excited to bring the program to Sunbury. He hopes “this will be an ongoing program for our Rotary Club.”

The Show and Shine will be held at Clarke Oval, Riddell Road, Sunbury on Sunday 29 March. Gates open at 8.30am, withentrance$5and$20percar(including two people).

Details: rotaryclubsunbury.org.au

Schools encouraged to plant trees to help cool the west

Greater Western Water (GWW) is inviting schoolsacrossitsserviceregiontotakepart in the 2026 Trees for Schools program.

The program will provide tube stock trees, along with stakes, guards, and planting education and advice, to primary and secondary schools.

GWW’s general manager of strategy and partnerships Kessia Thomson is encouraging all eligible schools to get involved and contribute to a greener, healthier western region and a more climate-resilient future.

“Tree planting is more important than everasweexperiencetheeffectsofclimate change,” she said.

“Treesareanimportantpartofourecosystem. They play a crucial role within our water cycle, by enabling rainfall through water vapour, and they help to strengthen our soil layers with their root systems, essentialforsustainablewatermanagement.

“This program is an excellent educational opportunity for students to learn about the significant impact and benefit that trees have on our environment, but

we are seeing far too many innocent community members harmed,” he said.

“Thisissimplynotacceptableaswewant Victorians to not only be safe but feel safe in their community.

“Our officers are remarkably efficient at holding prolific and dangerous offenders accountable, with thousands of youth gang arrests, record knife seizures, and family violence offenders locked up every half hour.”

Hesaidpoliceareintheprocessofrolling out significant operational changes that will be geared towards more police in the community to prevent crime.

Safer connections around Sunbury

The Sunbury community has the chance to shape what transport projects are prioritised around town.

Hume council is seeking feedback from residents on how they move around the Sunbury Central Precinct as part of its Transport Strategy.

The strategy prioritises small, quick, high impact fixes across Hume’s towns, with eleven projects identified across Sunbury that will link major footpaths and provide safer road crossings.

The community can prioritise what projects matter most to them, in the effort to make it easier and safer for people getting around Sunbury.

Projects the community can prioritise include new safety crossings, walking paths and bike paths, with areas identified including Macedon Street, Sunbury Station to the Sunbury Global Learning Centre, and Sunbury Station to the Sunbury Aquatic and Leisure Centre.

New safe crossings are also identified for Riddell Road and Aldridge Drive intersection, Reservoir Road, the Gap Road and Elizabeth Drive roundabout and Gap and Dyson roads.

The Elizabeth Parade Loop was also identified, which would include 3.5km of new paths, 15 intersection upgrades and signage upgrades as well as a new shared path between Elizabeth Drive into Rosenthal and another missing link to connect new homes closer to Diggers Rest to Sunbury Station with new paths, safety upgrades and four new intersection crossings.

The projects would help more homes be accessible to town and key transport corridors like Sunbury Station.

The community can have their say now on what three projects they think council should prioritise and investigate first, which council said delivery would be through its own investment or advocacy to other levels of government when needed.

Council said these prioritised projects, as decided by community input, will help decide what upgrades will be rolled out over the next few years.

Residents can also leave feedback on current walking and cycling connections throughout Sunbury.

it’s also a great hands-on way to teach the next generation about how to plant and care for trees to ensure growth for years to come.”

Participating schools will be contributing to a greener, healthier western region, providing shade, habitat for birds, insects and some mammals, and will aid in climate change adaptation.

Expressions of interest are open now and close Thursday 2 April.

Details: gww.com.au/about/community/trees-schools

Feedback is open now until 19 April to help form the transport plan for the Sunbury Central Precinct.

Details: participate.hume.vic.gov.au/ sunbury-central-precinct-transport-plan

Facelift for local schools

Two schools from Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges are benefitting from the state government’s Planned Maintenance Program(PMP).

Sunbury Primary School and Kyneton High School will share in $35.077 million alongside 53 other schools across the state forupgradeandimprovementworks.

Sunbury Primary School has received more than $480,000 in funding, while Kyneton High School will benefit from $920,982.

Briefs

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 session will be held on Thursday 5 March. In Gisborne, the session will take place from 4pm to 6pm at the Manna Gum Family and Children’s Centre.

Gisborne Easter Egg Hunt

Gisborne Rotary will be hosting a Community Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday 28 March. Held at Jacksons Creek Reserve from 10am, kids 12 years and under across four age groups will be able to find easter eggs hidden across the reserve.

Theprogramaimstoprovidehigh-quality spacesforprincipals,teachersandstaff,and betterlearningexperiencesforstudents.

Sunbury Primary School principal Anna Henderson said the funding will be used to undertake roof maintenance works, including resealing, cleaning and repaintingtohelppreventleaks.

“We are very pleased to receive this funding,asitwillhelpensureourfacilities remain safe and weatherproof,“ Ms Hendersonsaid.

Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas and Sunbury MP Josh Bull welcomed the funding.

The PMP provides funding for practical improvements for schools, including upgrading emergency shelters, drainage works,repainting,revarnishing,roofworks, replacing windows, structural works, switchboard works and wall repair, the governmentsaid.

The egg hunt starts at 11am sharp, with each age group running separately to ensure all children get a go. Cost is $5 per child, and there will also be food, drinks and fun Easter activities, including photos with the Easter Bunny and an animal farm petting zoo. All equipment will be provided for the egg hunt.

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

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Quiet idol stealing hearts

Before the spotlight found her, Jacinta Guirguis was already fighting to be heard, not just as a singer, but as herself. Now, on one of the country’s biggest stages, she talks to Jack O’Shea-Ayres about turning vulnerability into her greatest strength, and being backed by the unwavering support of the people who know her best.

On a stage built for big voices and even bigger personalities, 25-year-old Jacinta Guirguis is quietly stealing the hearts of the nation, letting people in to see the parts of herself she once tried to hide.

The Bacchus Marsh forklift driver has emerged as one of the most compelling contestants of Australian Idol’s 2026 season,notjustforthewayshesings,butfor the way she completely opens herself up, despite describing herself as unconfident. Behinditallisconstantanddeepflowing supportfromherfamily,andespeciallyher twin sister Chantel.

“My other half, my best friend,” Chantel said of Jacinta.

Long before the lights, the cameras and thenationalaudience,thereweretwolittle girls singing around the house.

“A lot of people don’t realise that Jacinta and I are actually twins,” Chantel said.

“From the very beginning we’ve shared an unbreakable bond - we’re inseparable andhavealwaysbeeneachother’sperson.”

Chantel’s connection has undoubtedly anchored Jacinta through everything, from childhood performances to the emotional highs and lows of the music industry, Chantel remembers recognising something special in her sister early on.

I feel like it’s starting a movement for those people who feel a little bit quirky, like a little bit of an outsider -

“From when she was little, she was constantly singing…there was always so much emotion and heart behind it,” she said.

“It was never just a hobby, it was always part of her.”

That very emotional depth would later becomeJacinta’ssignature,somethingthat caused her to stand out from the rest, but also, at times, her greatest challenge.

Jacinta first began singing at just eight years old, after a friend brought her along to a lesson. What followed was nearly two decades of dedication, gigs across Melbourne’sinner-north,originalmusicin local venues, and countless auditions.

“I was getting a lot of rejections,” Jacinta said.

“There’s a lot of singers who sound the same …and when they hear me, they go back and think she doesn’t really fit the mould.”

Again and again, she watched others move forward while she was left behind, a feeling which slowly chipped away at her confidence.

“I didn’t know where I fit,” she admitted. For a time, she stepped back entirely. She didn’t even apply for Australian Idol in 2026, but she was accepted for an audition anyway.

“They looked back over my previous applications and accepted it for this year. It’s like the universe didn’t want me to stop,” Jacinta said.

Even as her talent has quickly grown, Jacinta has been fighting a quieter, constant battle.

Diagnosed with Generalised Anxiety Disordernearlysixyearsago,shedescribes it as something that never truly leaves.

“Idon’tthinkIwilleverovercomeit,it’sa 24-7 illness,” she said.

The pressure of national television has only intensified those feelings for Jacinta, with every performance and critique, every result carries weight.

“The anxiety is definitely heightened on the show,” she explains.

But instead of hiding it, Jacinta has proudly embraced her vulnerability as a strength.

“I’mtryingtoshowpeople…justbecause you have this illness doesn’t mean you are any less of a human being.”

Jacinta’s Australian Idol journey has unfolded like a slow-burning revelation, withastrippedbackrenditionofSomebody

That I Used to Know by Gotye and Kimbra earningheraGoldenTicketandimmediate recognitionofthetruetalentshepossesses. Jacinta’sperformancewasraw,emotional and deeply personal, and perfectly fitting for her style as a musical artist.

“Ihadalotofpeoplewalkoutofmylife… that song resonated with me,” she said.

Fromthereshebuiltmomentumthrough the Top 30 performances that showcased both versatility and vulnerability, from Sting’s Fields of Gold to a reimagined take of Ariana Grande’s Problem, sung with two other contestants, but again, Jacinta’s talent shined through.

Then it was Jacinta’s performance of No Doubt’s Don’t Speak which further captured the public’s attention.

The performance was picked up and circulated online and gained massive attention from fans.

Posts began circulating online showing Jacinta’s picture plastered all around town back home in Bacchus Marsh, proving no doubt was ever on the minds of anyone showingsupportfortheirlocallegendback home.

By the time Jacinta had reached the top 21 performers and performed Everywhere by Fleetwood Mac, audiences could see the shift in her, and beyond that, Jacinta is making the songs she performs her own, with Dreams by the Cranberries sounding like it was written just for her as the shakiness begins to leave her voice.

While Jacinta navigates the whirlwind of the competition from Sydney, her family remains her emotional centre, even from a distance.

“I’m a real homebody. I miss my family so much,” she said.

“But I know they’re just a call away.”

ForChantel,watchinghersisterstepinto the spotlight is both surreal and deeply moving.

“There truly aren’t enough words to express how proud I am,” Chantel explained.

“Her journey hasn’t always been easy… but she’s never let that stop her.”

The separation has been difficult for a family so close-knit, but their support has never wavered: through visits, phone calls, and constant encouragement, Jacinta hasn’tquestionedthesupportofherfamily and local community for a second.

“I feel like the whole community is on

this journey with her,” Chantel said. The community connection has run deep, with Jacinta’s success feeling like a shared victory. Flyers posted outside the newsagentsinBacchusMarsh,Jacinta’sold workplace , show just how far reaching her talent is.

“I feel like I’m carving a path,” Jacinta said.

“I feel like it’s starting a movement for thosepeoplewhofeelalittlebitquirky,like a little bit of an outsider.”

For her sister Chantel, that journey is as inspiring as it is emotional.

“Herdetermination…hasshownmethat with time, patience and belief in yourself anything is possible,” she said.

Regardless of how the competition unfolds from here, Jacinta is certain of one thing, it’s only the beginning.

“I’ve always wanted to be a successful, well-known artist,” she said.

“I want to write songs, tour…all of it.”

For now, Jacinta is focused on the moment, taking each performance as it comes and holding tightly to the people who got her there.

And somewhere just offstage is the presence which has always steadied herher biggest supporter, her best friend, her other half.

While Jacinta stands tall, alone with the silent confidence of someone with enough talent to go far beyond winning 2026’s Australian Idol, her family and local community are standing with her.

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

Thousands celebrate SunFest

SunFest’s 50th anniversary went off without a hitch, with Sunbury residents and visitors showing up in big numbers for the two-day festival.

Taking over Sunbury’s streets and the Village Green for the 50th year on 14 and 15 March, SunFest committee president Angus McTaggart said he was thrilled to see locals turn out in force to support the event.

Over the two days, Mr McTaggart estimated 20,000 people descended on Sunbury.

Fifty years is a massive milestone ... to get the turnout we did was awesome - Angus McTaggart

“We had two beautiful days of weather, which was perfect. We had so many families and young kids come down,” he said. “Saturday was absolutely awesome, all the stalls, rides, the entertainment lineup, the parade was absolutely ballistic with the amount of people that came and who also enjoyed the full day’s worth of everything we had to offer.”

On Sunday people showed their support or joined in on the fun at the colour run.

“I think this Sunday has been one of the busiest Sundays we’ve ever had,” Mr McTaggart said.

“All of us volunteers are super proud of what we’ve been able to put on and I think the community really enjoyed it.

“Fifty years is a massive milestone and we wanted to try and go bigger and better andtogettheturnoutwedidwasawesome to see.”

Harmony Day at Diggers Rest Primary School

Students and teachers from Diggers Rest Primary School came together to celebrate Harmony Day on Wednesday 18 March, kicking off the day with a parade celebrating all the different cultures within the school, followedbygroupactivitiesthatbrought the whole school together over a mix of different cultural foods. StarWeekly photographer Damjan Janevski captured the fun, laughs and smiles of the day.

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.

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Potential to free up money

Low maintenance living Own your own home Keep any capital gains

MY PLACE

Charlotte Le Guier has been a Sunbury local her whole life and recently caught up with Georgia Tacey to tell her more about volunteering locally.

What’s your connection to Sunbury?

I’velivedinSunburymywholelife.Growing up here, I’ve seen the community change and grow, which has made me feel even more connected to it. Over the years, I’ve built strong connections through school, local events, and volunteering. Being involved in different community groups has allowed me to meet a wide range of people, develop new skills, and build a real sense of belonging within Sunbury.

What do you like about where you live?

OneofthethingsIlovemostaboutSunbury is its strong sense of community. It’s a place where people look out for one another and come together to support local events and organisations. I also really like the balance it offers - it’s relaxed, but there’s always something happening, whether it’s festivals, community programs, or local activities.

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

I’d love to continue seeing more young people getting involved in the Sunbury community. While there are already some great programs and opportunities available, it’s really encouraging to see young people stepping up, participating, and making connections. Expanding events, activities, and safe social spaces would help even more young people feel confidenttogetinvolved,havefun,andfeel like they truly belong in the community.

What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?

I have an eclectic taste in music, that spans anything from ’80s pop, R’n’B, rock and big hair metal through to emo and modern techno. I love going to concerts, most recently I have seen Lady Gaga, Metallica, Crowded House and I can’t wait to see Guns ‘n’ Roses later this year!

Tell us a bit about the groups you’re involved with around Sunbury.

I’m a volunteer with Sunbury Blue Light Disco and Sunbury Girl Guides, both of which play an important role in supporting young people in our community. I am the current president of the Sunbury Blue Light Disco. Along with police members and volunteers, I help run discos for primary school aged kids. I am also a unit leader with Sunbury Girl Guides, where the focus is more on the social and emotional development of girls and young women,

FROM THE ARCHIVES

35 years ago 26 March, 1991

Critical decisions on the future growth of Romsey Shire will be made within the next six months.

promotingpositiveself-esteem,confidence and teamwork.

Why did you decide to get involved?

My family has a strong connection to the Sunbury community. My grandparents were involved in Sunbury CFA, where my Grandad is a life member, Vinnies and even the Sunbury Blue Light Disco! My mum followed in their footsteps with the Sunbury Blue Light Disco and Girl Guides, and now I am proud to continue the family tradition of volunteering in Sunbury! Being part of both groups has allowed me to contribute to my local community in a positive way, whilst developing my own leadership, communication skills and sense of purpose. I have no doubt that developing these skills and being involved from a young age has helped shape me into the person I am today and is something I

would encourage all young people to do. Is there anything exciting coming up this year for the groups?

Sunbury Blue Light has five discos planned forthisyear,ournextdiscoisonthe29May and is a masquerade theme. We would love toseeheapsofkidstherereadytodancethe night away with us! We also encourage new volunteers to join us. The best way to keep up to date is to follow us on social media and subscribe to our Eventbrite page. Sunbury Girl Guides meet weekly at the Guide Hall in Miller Street, where we have four units for girls aged from prep to 18 years. You will next see us at the upcoming SunburyAnzacYouthVigil,whichSunbury Girl Guides have proudly been involved in since the inaugural event in 2019. To join Girl Guides please enquire via the Girl Guides Victoria website.

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

20 years ago 28 March, 2006

On November 26, Patty Carlyon complained to her mum of a headache. Within 48 hours the eight-year-old was in hospital, diagnosed with acute melanoid leukaemia.

15 years ago 22 March, 2011

The Salesian College community has again reached out to Cambodians, leading a project to deliver a pushbike to each person in Tatray, a remote village near Siem Reap.

10 years ago 22 March, 2016

Decision-makers have been urged to take a long-term view, doing more to plan and invest in local jobs and roads, amid revelations that Sunbury has one of the least accessible job markets in Melbourne’s north.

Immerse in Greek culture

By Lee McCarthy

One of the added joys of travelling on a Viking cruise in Europe are the mini vacations offered in buzzing cities before and after sailing.

Thesetripsgivegueststheopportunityto soakupthecultureandvibeoftheportcity while preparing for departure.

As part of their packaging, Viking offer three-day extensions on their cruise options where everything is taken care of inthesameperfectfashionthatpassengers become accustomed to onboard.

They have just launched a new three-night pre or post cruise extension on their ‘Greek Traditions’ cruises available on select Mediterranean ocean voyages from 2026 onwards.

The extensions are available on the following itineraries: the Ancient Mediterranean Treasures cruise, Italy, the Adriatic, and Greece cruise; Journey to Antiquities cruise; Mediterranean Antiquities Venice cruise and the Adriatic and Greece cruise.

Based in Nafplio in the Peloponnese, the extension immerses guests in Greek culture and cuisine, with olive oil, honey andwinetastings,avisittoancientNemea, guided walking tours, and time to explore one of Greece’s most charming historic towns.

Greek Traditions extensions include hotelnightsinNafpliowithsevenmeals, three guided tours: Nemea and Nafplio; Honey and Wine Tasting; Olive Oil Factory and Tasting.

With extension prices starting from $2,699 and fully escorted by a Viking Tour Director, with all transfers included these extra days on land offer a divine opportunity to absorb the essence of Europe and the mediterranean.

For those considering the ‘Venice, the Adriatic and Greece’ option, this eight-day, four country cruise with six guided tours is now very affordable with pricing starting from only $6695.

The cruise leaves from Venice and takes in the spectacular Adriatic Sea with stops in Split, Croatia, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Corfu, Katakolon and Athens. An exceptional holiday taking in all the yearned for destinations in one cruise.

Those booking now can save up to $2500 with a ‘companion flies free’ option available on selected 2026-2028 voyages (check with Viking for full terms and conditions).

This cruise with allow travelers to

discover Venice exploring St Marks Square, or the Doge’s Palace, the famed Rialto Bridge or learn about Venetian mask crafting.

Another city to discover is Split, one of Croatia’s oldest cities, it has a promenade which commands majestic views over a bay and the Adriatic Sea. There is time to explore the city centre and Diocletian’s Palace, journey to Trogir or the Krka Waterfalls.

In Split, take the opportunity to join the Executive Chef for a unique, market to table experience where guests take an interactive culinary adventure. Immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine at the local market and handpick ingredients under the guidance of the chef.

Later that evening, dine on regional dishes prepared by the culinary team, using produce from the market.

NextstopisDubrovnikwherevisitorscan

walk the marbled Stradun in Dubrovnik, passSponzePalaceandseethe15tCentury Onogrio’s Fountain or sample some of the best of Croatia’s wines during a winery tour and tasting in the beautiful Konavle Valley.

Sail through scenic fjords to the remarkably preserved Kotor, Montenegro’s historic gem. Explore its Medieval Streets, visit the Cathedral of St. Tryphon or immerse yourself in the Maritime Museum.

In magnificent Corfu in Greece stroll the streets of Old Town, see Mouse Island and the Vacherna Monastery. For those chasing more physically challenging activities explore Corfu’s spectacular natural landscapes and inviting villages by bicycle on an invigorating tour.

Katakolon is huddled around a pretty little harbour dotted with colourful fishing

boats. Nearby, the fertile valleys of the western Peloponnese are a bounty of olive groves, vineyards and orchards, and lead to the legendary city of Olympia. In Olympia visit the Olympic park, see the Temple of Zeus, and browse the Olympic Archaeological Museum.

This truly stunning eight-day cruise sadly ends at magnificent Athens.

This is one of the best ways to visit these much-loved cities especially for those over fifty who want a little bit of luxury without having to decide where the best place is to stay, eat, drink, exercise, or shop.

Guests can extend their holiday in Athens by joining another extension tour to absorb more of ancient Greece for a few days before leaving for home.

Find out about this and many more cruises available from Viking at www.viking.com or phone 138 747.

WONDERS

Purpose-built for the Brahmaputra River, Viking Ganges joins Viking Brahmaputra, bringing Viking’s signature Scandinavian design to India. Explore the Taj Mahal in Agra, wander Old Delhi’s historic streets and discover Jaipur’s Palace of Winds as you journey through India’s Golden Triangle.

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From $16,295pp in Veranda Stateroom

Community spaces ‘unused’

By Georgia Tacey

Seven unstaffed community facilities across Hume have been identified as having the lowest level of usage as council’s audit into community centres has been released.

Seabrook Reserve Community Centre in Broadmeadows was found to have the lowest level of bookings and usage at 5.9 per cent, with Evans Street Environmental Centre in Sunbury following closely behind at 9.8 per cent.

Seabrook Reserve Community Centre opened in 2024.

Jack McKenzie Community Hall in Bulla only had 10.3 per cent usage, Dallas Tennis Hall and Campbellfield Community Centre both had just over 12 per cent, Goonawarra

Community Centre in Sunbury had 16.43 per cent and Roxburgh Park Recreation Centre had 16.88 per cent.

The audit follows after Cr Sam Misho’s notice of motion from 11 August, 2025, whichcalledforthereport,withthefindings released to the public at the 23 February council meeting.

Cr Misho said the findings weren’t a shock to him.

“The report talks about 30 community facilities, halls, libraries and other facilities, seven of which at worst they’ve been used for less than six per cent and at best they’ve been used for less than 17 per cent,” he said.

“It leaves these multi-million dollar facilitiesunusedbyourcommunityandthat is a serious concern for me.”

At the 23 February council meeting, Cr Misho forwarded the recommendation council consider including $90,000 in the 2026-27 budget to undertake the community facilities feasibility study and pilot activation, with a report received once the study is included.

Cr Misho’s amendment included fasttracking the delivery of the pilot program, ensuring its well promoted prior to commencement, and delivering it for a maximum period of three months, followed by a rapid assessment of the results.

“I think as a council we should strongly move away from focusing on ribbon cutting by spending millions and millions of dollars on community centres when we already have community centres that we need to

Groups welcome funding boost from Hume

SunburyandGoonawarraneighbourhood houses are among community groups to receive funding as part of the Hume council 2026 Community Grants Program.

Hume mayor Carly Moore said the 92 grant recipients were celebrated at a presentation evening on February 11, sharing in more than $352,508.

“[The presentation] is a celebration of the volunteers, leaders and groups who strengthen our community and enhance the wellbeing of Hume residents,” she said.

Thelargestfundingallocation,$10,000 annually for three years, was awarded to four groups, including the Australian Multicultural Community Centre for its multicultural carers’ space, and Piano

Project, to deliver free youth music lessons.

“These groups are helping people participateincommunitylife,developing community-led solutions to local challenges, and strengthening social connection across our city,” Cr Moore said.

“Through the community grants program, council can invest directly in the ideas, energy and leadership of local people for local people.”

Sporting organisations were also supported, with council awarding $4900 to Sunbury Masters Football Club to establish a women’s team, and providing the second $10,000 instalment to the Broadmeadows Basketball Association.

The grants also funded cultural

events, including the Hmong Australia Society New Year Festival and the Meadow Heights Turkish Senior Group’s International Women’s Day event, which were each awarded $3,000. Community events in Sunbury, including Neighbour Day, were supported with $5000 awarded to Goonawarra Neighbourhood House and a further $9550 to Sunbury Neighbourhood House.

Cr Moore encouraged community groups to apply for round two funding.

“We’re inviting community groups and not-for-profits to apply so we can continue supporting these important local initiatives,” she said.

Details: https://www.hume.vic.gov. au/Your-Council/Grants-awards-andfunds/Community-Grants-Program

continue renovating and bring them back to life,” Cr Misho said.

The feasibility study, if endorsed during the budget, would focus on the seven identified facilities, and seek to identify appropriate free, supervised gathering opportunities, according to the officers’ report.

Under completion of the study, the officers’ report said it would be anticipated that two sites would be identified and recommended to progress to a pilot, with $50,000 identified to activate two underutilised facilities.

CrNaimKurtaskedofficerstoclarifyifthe fast-trackedprogramcouldbecompletedby September, however officers said they were unable to provide that during the meeting.

Volunteer award nominations open

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Victorian Volunteering Awards, recognising the contribution of the state’s volunteers and the organisations they power.

The awards celebrate excellence across eight categories, including: Young Volunteer Award; Volunteer Commitment Award; Volunteer LeadershipAward;VolunteerImpact Award; Inclusive Volunteering Award; Volunteering Innovation Awards; Volunteering Partnerships Award and Grassroots Volunteering Award.

TheVolunteeroftheYear,selected from the individual categories, will receivetheDameElisabethMurdoch Award and a $10,000 donation to a not-for-profit of their choice.

A total of 447 nominations were received for last year’s awards, including Glenys Watts, who was named Volunteer of the Year for her work advocating for Indigenous health, family violence prevention and culturally safe services.

“Victoria’s volunteers are the quiet achievers behind so much of what makes our communities strong – these awards are our chance to shine a light on them,” Carers and Volunteers Minister Ros Spence said in encouraging nominations.

For more information or to nominate: volunteeringvictoria.org. au/awards.

PUZZLES

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.

ACROSS

1 Refrain; pass (7)

5 Social dance (coll) (5-2)

9 Young adulthood (11)

10 Reverential wonder (3)

11 Value (6)

12 Sound of wood burning (7)

14 Poke (4)

15 Normal or conventional (10)

17 Rival (10)

19 Book ID (1,1,1,1)

20 Fixed sum of money paid each year (7)

22 Brawny (6)

25 Bedridden (3)

26 Combined whole (11)

28 Leather factory (7)

29 Kings and queens (7)

1 Partly open (4) 2 Blizzard (9)

3 RollingintheDeep singer (5)

4 Unavoidably (11)

5 Knowledge (3)

6 Tastefully fine (7)

7 Predator (5)

8 Promotion (10)

12 Aficionado (11)

13 Doctor with superior knowledge in a specific field (10)

16 Vital, indispensable (9)

18 Territory ruled by an Islamic monarch (7)

21 Synthetic fibre (5)

23 Prepared (5)

24 Just (4)

27 Lively (3)

Today’s Aim:

13 words: Good 19 words: Very good 25 words: Excellent

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”. L I N A N M F I G

3 LETTERS

5 LETTERS ACTED AGENT AGREE AORTA AROMA ARRAY ATONE BEADS BLAZE BONZA BROKE CHAOS CRATE CROSS DELTA DODGE EDICT EERIE ENDOW FIEND GRASS HALON IGLOO INANE LOOSE METER NEVER OASIS ORDER OVERS PAGER

1 Swimmer Cate Campbell has won how many Olympic gold medals?

2 Angela Bassett (pictured) played which character in the Black Panther films?

3 Who released the album Small TownTemple in 2023?

4 The height of which US volcano was reduced by more than 400m after a massive eruption in 1980?

5 What breed of animal is a Brussels Griffon?

6 Which country introduced a Nuclear Free Bill in 1987?

7 Which song won the Best Original Song award at the 2026 Academy Awards?

8 The world’s longest-lasting light bulb was first switched on in what year: 1901, 1911 or 1921?

9 Which team won the 2025 Indian Premier League cricket final?

10 James Earl Ray is best known for assassinating which person?

The great AI content heist

By Paul Thomas*

In a recent Australian Financial Review opinion piece, “There is nothing creative about AI not paying for news content”, Rod Sims made a point Australia cannot afford to ignore.

Sims is now chair of The Superpower Institute and an Enterprise Professor at the Melbourne Institute at the University of Melbourne. He is also the former chair of the ACCC, and when he warns about market power and unfair extraction, people should listen.

His point is blunt, and correct. There is nothing creative about AI companies taking professionally created content, building commercial products on top of it, and then refusing to properly pay the people who made that content in the first place. That applies most urgently to journalism, but it also reaches writers, photographers, artists and other creators whose work is being vacuumed up to make these systems more useful and more profitable.

That is not innovation. It is extraction.

And for regional Australia, the damage will be greater than it is in the cities.

In a capital city, people may still have a range of big media outlets, institutions and voices competing to keep public life under scrutiny. In regional Australia and local areas, the local paper is often the trusted source. It is the paper that covers the council meeting, the court matter, the hospital issue, the fire warning, the local business, the sporting club and the decisions that shape daily life.

If that journalism weakens, country communities feel it first.

That is why the Canadian research on this issue is so important. The study is called AI News Audit. It was published in March 2026 by Taylor Owen and Aengus Bridgman of McGill University’s Centre

COMMUNITY

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

for Media, Technology and Democracy and the Media Ecosystem Observatory. It is some of the clearest evidence yet of whatAIcompaniesareactuallydoingwith professionally produced news content.

The researchers found AI models had absorbed Canadian journalism at scale and usually did not say so. In the technical brief, the researchers found that among knowledgeable responses, 92 per cent providednosourceattributionatall.Inthe policy brief, they found AI systems gave no source attribution 82 per cent of the time, and when asked about specific recent articles, produced substitute answers in 54 to 81 per cent of cases while naming the original outlet in the response text only one to 16 per cent of the time.

That is the heart of the problem.

Thejournalismisbeingused.Thevalueis beingcaptured.Thesourceisbeingerased. AI companies do not send reporters to council meetings. They do not sit through court hearings. They do not verify facts during floods, fires or elections. They do not employ the local journalist, the editor,

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

the photographer or the creator who actually did the original work. But they increasingly want to scrape that work, absorbitintotheirsystems,andprofitfrom it as if it were their own.

For regional and suburban Australia, that is not some distant policy debate. It goes to whether local journalism survives.

The Canadian research also found that the outlets getting the most AI visibility were the biggest, free, nationally prominent organisations, while paywalled and regional and local publishers fell well below proportional representation. That should ring alarm bells here. It means smaller publishers can be mined for value while losing the audience and revenue they need to keep reporting.

And the consequences go well beyond business.

We are already living through an era of misinformation, half-truths and outright falsehoods spreading across social media at extraordinary speed. Much of it is unchecked. Much of it is designed to inflame, divide and mislead. If AI systems

now scrape reliable journalism, strip out thesource,andserveupconfidentanswers that people cannot easily verify, the danger only grows. The Canadian policy brief warns that when AI delivers answers drawn from journalism but stripped of source and context, the public’s ability to judge reliability is diminished.

That is a direct threat to democracy.

Democracy depends on trusted, checkable and accountable information. People need to know where a fact came from. They need to be able to judge the source, test its credibility and read further for themselves. If AI becomes a black box that swallows journalism and other original creative work, then spits out unattributed answers, the public loses one of its most important safeguards.

Australia should be clear about this. If AI companies want to use local journalism and other professionally created content, they should pay for it. If they use original reporting and creative work to build commercial products, they should compensate the people and businesses that created that value. And if they rely on trusted journalism to make their systems useful, they should be required to clearly identify the source so readers can verify what they are being told.

That is not anti-technology. It is pro-fairness, pro-creativity and pro-democracy.

Rod Sims is right. There is nothing creativeaboutnotpayingfornewscontent. And in regional Australia, there is nothing abstract about the consequences. When local journalism is stripped for value and not sustained, it is our towns, our readers and our democracy that pay the price.

* Paul Thomas is co-owner and managing director of Star News Group, Today News Group and SA Today. He is a past president and life member of Country Press Australia.

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

Good Friday

The Combined Churches of Sunbury will again be hosting the annual Good Friday ecumenical gathering, to be held this year at St. Anne’s Catholic Church, Riddell Road, Sunbury at 10am on 3 April. All are welcome to come together in worship and fellowship. www.sunburychurches.com.au

Calvary

The Voice of Joy and Gladness presents Calvary. Come along and contemplate with gratitude Calvary, in this free event. The community will be able to spend a thoughtful couple of hours considering the closing scenes of Jesus’ ministry through music, ancient scriptures, drama and film. There will also be live music, guest singers, children’s activities including free pony rides and gift bags, with food trucks on site. Happening at the John Aitken Reserve in Gisborne on Sunday 29 March, 5-7.30pm. Louise, 0425 781 581

Lancefield & District Farmers Market

At the Lancefield and District Farmers Market on Saturday 28 March, the Romsey/ Lancefield Ambulance Auxiliary will be supported by local paramedics in hosting an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) information stall. Paramedics will be displaying how to use this life saving machine for all who are interested. So

come along to learn how these Automated External Defibrillators work, how to find them, and pick up a potentially life-saving skill, and help make the community even safer. Those interested in joining the auxiliary can also have a chat with members on the day to find out more about fundraising for the local Ambulance Station 9am-1pm.

Sunbury Ladies’ Badminton Club

Is serving up! Come along and enjoy a shot of badminton. It’s fun and good for your fitness - win, win! Social and competition games are played every Thursday morning (excluding public-school holidays) from 9.30am-noon at the Eric Boardman Stadium, Wilsons Lane, Sunbury. All skill levels are welcome. sunburylbc@gmail.com

Messy Play in Sunbury

Join in the Messy Play fun with this toddler-focused 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

Farmers and Makers Market

Locals and people from afar get along to this wonderful farmers market. Always the third Sunday of the month with 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, 9am-1pm. Amy, 0423 726 695

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

Trades fair lost no more

The Lost Trades Fair is lost to the Ranges no more.

The fair is returning back to the Macedon Ranges to where it all began at Hanging Rock, for the two-day celebration of artisans and makers.

The event will support, promote and showcase artisans and makers practicing heritage trades and traditional skills, with artist talks, demonstrations and more.

TheLostTradesFairissettobringglobal artists to the Ranges specialising in woodwork, textile, design, crafts and more, with

featured creators including Swedish craftswoman Kerstin Neumüller, who’s coming to Australia for the very first time.

Leading British iconographer Dr Irina Bradley, London-based book artist Halleh Mortazavi, American photographer Shannon Schnittker and more internationally renowned creators are also among the more than 150 set to be showcased during the event.

Co-founder Lisa Rundell said it was exciting to bring the fair back to where it all started in 2014.

“Hanging Rock is one of the most iconic sites in the state and it is very exciting to be able to bring our artisans – the rock stars of traditional and heritage trades – together at such a magical site to share their skills, trades, talent, stories, culture, knowledge and celebrate the enduring pursuit of handmade with the very finest levels of human craftsmanship on display,” she said. Over the two days, Hanging Rock will be open exclusively for fair patrons, with the ticket price including parking and full entry to Hanging Rock.

Festival’s new beginnings in Brimbank

A 3000-year-old tradition of renewal and hope is coming to Sunshine this month with locals invited to join in celebrating the solar year 1405.

The Nowruz Festival in Sunshine, presented by Afghans Hope Hut, will be the first public event of its kind hosted in Brimbank on Saturday 28 March.

Afghans Hope Hut Victoria president and founder Khalida Dawran said “It is a special moment for our community because it is the first time we are celebrating Nowruz publicly in this way. In the past we have celebrated it on a smaller scale, mainly indoors and often only among women.”

“This festival represents a new step forward for our community. There has been a great deal of preparation, but the enthusiasm and support from volun-

teers and community members make it incredibly rewarding. I’m really looking forward to seeing families and people from different backgrounds come together to celebrate.”

Nowruz Festival marks the first day of the solar year and the arrival of spring.

The festival has been celebrated for more than 3000 years across many cultures and countries including Afghanistan, Iran, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Kurdistan, among others.

“The festival symbolises renewal, hope and new beginnings,” Ms Dawran said.

“For many families who now call Australia home, celebrating Nowruz is a meaningful way to preserve our traditions while also sharing our culture with the wider Victorian community.

“The festival in Brimbank will feature live cultural music, traditional performances and a display of the HaftSeen table, which is a central symbol of Nowruz. Visitors will also experience traditions such as Haft Mewa, Nowruz cookies, traditional egg-tapping games for young people, and henna art for girls and women.”

There will be tea and sweets, family-friendly activities, and opportunities for people to learn about the meaning and history of Nowruz too.

“Our hope is to create a joyful and welcoming atmosphere where locals can experience different traditions and celebrate together,” Ms Dawran said.

Everyone is invited to the festival on Saturday 28 March at Sunvale Community Park, 20 Neil Street, Sunshine.

Double trouble dance comptition promises twice the fun

The third installment of the breaking dancing competition and hip-hop celebration Double Trouble will come to the streets of central Footscray on Saturday 28 March. Funded through Maribyrnong Council’s Love Your West Grants Program and supported by local not-for-profit street dance organisation Cypher Culture, Double Trouble is described as a ‘Breakin’ event for the people by the people.

Taking place at Maddern Square in between Leeds Street and the Nicholson Street Mall, the event will be based around a break

dancing competition with two categories: 2 VS 2 Breakin’ and 1 VS 1 Under 14 Breakin.’

Both competitions will see crews and individualsgohead-to-head,backedbyalineup of live DJs and drummers, and overseen by respected judges from across Australia.

With custom Double Trouble jackets and prize money up for grabs, the competition will be fierce. Inner west break dancers who think they have what it takes to compete still have the chance to do so, with applications to take part still open.

Running from 12pm-6pm, Double Trou-

Fairgoers will be able to climb the rock, explore the reserve while also catching some live demonstrations, have a go at one of the many trades or just relax and take in everything the weekend offers.

The Lost Trades Fair will take over Hanging Rock from Saturday 28 March until Sunday 29 March.

Tickets are only sold online until sold out. A free shuttle bus will also operate from Woodend train station for ticket holders.

Details: losttradesfair.com.au/

Blackwood woodchop and Easter carnival

How much wood could a woodchop chop if a woodchop chopped all through Blackwood?

Well, you may find the answer with beloved former winner of Moorabool’s Community Event of the Year, the Blackwood Woodchop and Easter Carnival, as it’s set to return with an action-packed, fun-filled day out for the whole family on Saturday 4 April.

In its milestone 125th year, the event features one of the oldest woodchopping competitions in Victoria.

This year’s carnival is set to kick off with a street parade, followed by everyone’s favourite woodchop, plus loads of other fun activities, including gold panning, gumboot throwing, a pet show, treasure hunt, and loads of novelty games and races for the little ones.

Among the already jam-packed fun is also face-painting, tug-o-war, market stalls, delicious treats and licenced bars.

The parade starts off on Main Street, weaving down to the reserve for a final victory lap, with everyone invited to follow along or watch the parade at any point along the way.

All are being invited to join in on the parade. With no set theme, keen participants are encouraged to let their imagination run wild and enter with friends, family, and even pets for a chance to win prizes for best dressed, most colourful, and most creative.

ble is free to attend and promises to provide dynamic performances, positive vibes and plenty of crowd-pleasing moments as dancers showcase their skill, style and teamwork. Double Trouble volume three is predicted to be the biggest one yet. For more information visit the event Facebook page: https://shorturl.at/vKO1W or Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/dtjamofficial/

Those interested in competing should message event organisers through either page.

But it wouldn’t be the Blackwood Woodchop and Easter Carnival without plenty of great music acts lined up to provide the perfect soundtrack, with the Gordon Gypsies, Craig Woodward and Friends, Fingerbone, Gumbo Express and Rock & Co. booked to rock your socks off.

The family favourite event is all set to place with a picturesque backdrop at the beautiful Blackwood Reserve.

Ticket price includes all activities, including woodchop and live music.

For tickets and information: https:// blackwood3458.com.au/2550-2/.

For registration in the parade, email blackwoodprogress@gmail.com.

Lead two important regional news brands and

and

An exciting opportunity is available for an experienced and energetic Editor to lead the editorial direction of the Sunraysia Daily and Broken Hill Times, based from our Mildura office.

This is a hands-on leadership role overseeing the Sunraysia Daily’s three-times-a-week printed edition, the Broken Hill Times, daily online publishing, and support for content across the company’s social channels.

You will lead the reporting team in Mildura and work closely with the small team in Broken Hill, while being supported by the Group Editor and our production hub team.

This is a strong role for someone who understands the importance of local journalism, can drive quality and consistency across platforms, and is committed to building audience and community impact.

About the role

In this role, you will:

•edit and oversee the Sunraysia Daily print editions published three times a week

•oversee editorial output for Broken Hill Times

•manage daily digital publishing across both brands

•assist with editorial content for the company’s social media channels

•lead, mentor and manage the team of reporters in Mildura and the small team in Broken Hill

•help drive strong news judgment, story generation, planning and follow-through

•work with the Group Editor and production hub team to ensure deadlines are met and quality standards maintained

•help grow audience engagement across print, online and social platforms

•maintain high standards of accuracy, fairness, balance and community relevance

•connect with the community, attend events and meet with key members of the community

About you

To succeed in this role, you will ideally have:

•experience in editing, newsroom leadership or senior reporting

•strong news sense and a passion for regional and community journalism

•excellent writing, editing and headline skills

•the ability to manage competing deadlines across print and digital

•strong people leadership skills and a collaborative approach

•confidence working across websites, digital publishing systems and social platforms

•an understanding of how to build audience through digital content and social distribution

•a commitment to accuracy, ethics and high editorial standards

•a great sense of community

What we are looking for

We are looking for someone who can:

•lead from the front

•support and develop reporters

•produce strong, relevant and engaging local content

•balance the demands of print, digital and social

•work positively with editorial, production and management teams across the group

Why join us

This is a rare opportunity to play a leading role in two important regional news mastheads and make a genuine difference in the communities they serve.

You will join a business that values trusted local journalism and supports its editors with experienced group leadership and central production resources, while still giving you the chance to have real editorial impact at the local level.

To apply

Please submit your application, including a cover letter and

experience and why you are interested in this role to paul.thomas@starnewsgroup.com.au

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Gold medallist Alysa Liu was the first American woman to land which difficult jump in figure skating competitively?

2. And in which year did she accomplish this feat?

3. In rock climbing safety, how many points of contact should a climber maintain with the wall at

4. Which sport is played by ‘The Dude’ and his friends in the 1998 film TheBigLebowski?

5. True or false: ice rinks are calibrated specifically for different sports?

6. Which LA Kings player recently made history by achieving the most points in franchise history? And which player’s record

13. The Sphere, an immersive sporting and entertainment complex, is located in which US city?

14. Which TV network will be the main broadcaster of Victorian Football League matches in 2026?

15. Dylan Moore is the former vice-captain of which AFL club?

16. Which sport is described as gymnastics on horseback?

17. Justin Holbrook is in his first year of coaching which NRL club?

Who played former Formula One racing driver Niki Lauda in the Billy Smith plays for which Seattle and Central Coast share which nickname in the MLB and A-League

What sport did former US president Richard Nixon partake in at the White House to relieve stress?

Which Australian cricketer scored a joint-record payday of $395,000 to take part in the 2026 Women’s Hundred tournament?

18. How many points did Miami Heat centre Bam Adebayo recently score, the second-most ever in an NBA game?

19. Which horseracing venue is located in Gloucestershire, England?

20. The Balgownie Rangers are the oldest running Australian club in which sport?

21. Which Mercedes F1 driver won the Chinese Grand Prix, his first victory?

22. And which Aussie driver did not start the race for the second Grand Prix in a row?

23. Which state won Australia’s domestic 50-over One Day Cup cricket competition?

24. The official motto of which international sporting organisation is ‘Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together’?

25. How old is Max Dowman, who recently became the youngest goalscorer in English Premier League history?

26. Which country clinched the Six Nations rugby union title with a lastminute win over England?

27. Sydney-born soccer player Adrian Segecic has decided to represent which country instead of Australia?

28. Golfer Hannah Green has broken a 12-year drought to become the first Australian woman to win which tournament?

29. Two Grands Prix set to be held in which two countries in the Middle East in April have been cancelled?

30. Which iconic rivalry between Australia and England will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2027?

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here

We’re seeking multiple Personal Care Workers/ Aged Care Support Workers in the Gisborne, Macedon, Hepburn and Bendigo regions

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

•Provide one on one care to clients in their homes, helping them to live their best lives, and remain healthy and independent

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

•Duties may include personal care services, cleaning, meal preparation, shopping assistance, transport, and socialisation and engagement activities.

•Flexibility for shifts between Monday to Sunday, 8am to 5pm.

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

As a respected not-for-profit organisation, we’re transforming the experience of ageing through collaboration, new ideas and investment in people and services. Join our team of 2,000+ people making a positive difference to over 15,000 older Victorians through aged care services! Don’t have a qualification in aged care but are passionate about helping others? Apply now to start your career in care.

Scan below to see jobs available in your area, or visit us at https://careers.benetas.com.au/

Just a question of price

By Chris Riley, Marque

After a string of hybrid and fully-electric vehicles, including a full-blown electric ute, it was kind of refreshing to get behind the wheel of a no-frills turbo-diesel 4x4 ute like they used to make (and obviously still do).

The five-seat Mitsubishi Triton GLX double cab ’Pick Up’ (somewhere along the line they became pickups), in either 4x2 or 4x4 configuration, is just such a beast, complete with good old fashioned steel wheels.

Mitsubishi describes the GLX as everything you want in a tough, reliable and durable ute – whether it’s the 4x2 for workorthe4x4forplay,theywillgetthejob done anytime, every time.

Styling

The entry model to the Triton range retails for $44,090 in two-wheel drive form and $51,440 for the 4x4.

Our test vehicle was the GLX 4x4 double cab, Easy Select low and high range 4WD and all terrain tyres.

Firmly focused on work capability, it’s offered with a voice of six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions.

Our vehicle was fitted with almost $10,000 worth of accessories, including premium silver paint ($790), soft tonneau ($918), tray liner ($308), bullbar ($3779), snorkel ($1175), under front guard ($422), high-edge rubber mats ($154), plus a tow bar ($1551) with REDARC electric brake controller and harness ($865).

The Terrain pack includes some of these items and saves you $991.

The bullbar completely changes the look of the vehicle.

Vinyl flooring and cloth trim is of course de rigueur, with automatic air conditioning, ceiling mounted rear air circulator and electric lumbar support for the driver.

Entry is keyless but you need to insert the key in the ignition to start the ute, something of a rarity these days.

GLX is however quite sophisticated for an entry level model, with adaptive cruise control, intelligent speed limiter, auto high beam, traffic sign recognition, auto lights andwipers,frontandrearparkingsensors, and tyre pressure monitoring.

GLX is covered by a 10-year warranty, along with 10 years capped price servicing and 10 years roadside assistance.

Infotainment

Infotainment consists of a small rather thin 9.0-inch touchscreen, with Bluetooth, including voice control and audio streaming, plus built-in satellite navigation, AM/FM radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto and generic four-speaker audio.

The instrument cluster is formed by two analogue dials separated by a small digital info panel.

There’s USB A and C ports in the front, along with a 12-volt outlet, with another 12-volt outlet in the rear but no USB.

Safety

Triton was the first dual-cab ute to be awarded a five-star ANCAP safety rating against the current criteria.

ANCAP notes the Triton demonstrated high levels of protection for occupants in crash tests.

Triton scored 86 per cent for Adult Occupant Protection, 89 per cent for Child Occupant Protection, 73 per cent for Vulnerable Road User Protection and 70 per cent for Safety Assist.

It comes with a 360-degree camera and a total of eight airbags, including a centre airbag, Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User and Junction) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), and a speed sign recognition system are standard.

Autonomous emergency braking (Backover) is standard on utility variants, but is not available on cab-chassis variants introduced from March 2025.

Two ISOFix and two top tether child seat anchor points are provided in the rear, requiring the seat belt to be threaded through a cloth loop.

But it says installation of child restraints in the centre seating position of the second row in dual cab variants is not recommended as there is no top tether anchorage.

Installation of child restraints in single and club cab variants is not recommended as there are no top tether anchorages.

Child Occupant Protection scores therefore do not apply to the single and club cab variants.

Engines/transmissions

The 2.4-litre bi-turbo diesel produces 150kW of power at 3500 rpm and 470Nm of torque from 1500-2750 rpm and in our test vehicle was paired with a six-speed automatic, together with part-time four-wheel drive.

Driving

GLXstandslongandtall,at5320x1795mm, with a 3130mm wheelbase and 12.4-metre turningcircle.

Ground clearance is 228mm but without side steps fitted, it can be a challenge to get inandout,especiallyforsmallchildren.

Atleastagrabhandleisprovidedforeach ofthefourdoorstoprovidesomeassistance.

Thehighrideheightalsomakesitdifficult to reach in and fit a child seat, off balance andwithoutanyleverage.

The 17-inch steel wheels are shod with chunkier 265/65 series Toyo all-terrain tyresdesignedforoff-roaduse.

At 30.4 degrees the approach angle is pretty good, but that long tail tends to drag, reducing the exit angle to 22.8 degrees whichcouldpresentproblems.

Drive under normal circumstances is to the rear wheels with the ability to change gears with the shifter and auto engine stop-starttosaveburningunnecessaryfuel.

However, the GLX cannot be driven in four-wheel drive on dry bitumen – it requires some slippage to stop the diff binding.

Witha75-litretank,fuelconsumptionisa claimed7.7L/100km.

There’salsoasecondaryAdBluetankthat needs filling from time to time, but easily accessed sitting side by side with the fuel filler.

In our week behind the wheel the trip computer showed 8.3L/100km after almost 400km of driving, not quite as good as the maker’sclaim–butnotbadallthesame.

Heavydutyrearsuspensionisfitted,with ventilateddiscbrakesatfrontanddrumsat therear.

As expected, the ride is very much old school given the stiff suspension and unladen mass – bumpy, jiggly and at times shuddery.

Put a bit of weight in the back and it is

likelytosettledown.

Likewise, we wouldn’t go chucking the ute into any fast corners, but it’s certainly no slouch in traffic, with light easy on the armssteering.

Payload capacity by the way is 1083kg in thisconfiguration,withatubthatmeasures 1555mmx1545mmx526mm,with1135mm betweenthewheelarches.

Alas, it bucketed down in Sydney during the week we had the Triton and we were unabletotakeitoffroad.

But we’ve taken this vehicle off road beforeandcanreportitisaquitecompetent, medium-dutyvehicle.

Other points of note include the touchscreen which is really too small to accommodate both overhead and rear camera views at the same time when reversing.

Our major criticism however concerns the horrible, nagging, annoying driver monitoring system which is right up there withanythingofferedbytheChinese. Maybethat’swhereMitsugotit?

Summing up

GLX is what it is, a purpose-built work vehicle without any of the fancy stuff found insportsutes.

It’s surprisingly well equipped and presents as a solid, value for money investmentatthisendofthemarket. But many of the features that buyers will be looking for remain accessories, so the stickerpriceissomewhatmisleading. The main problem is that the same figure buys you a larger chunk of a Chinese ute and this is probably the main reason the Triton carries a 10-year warranty, provided yougetthecarservicedwithMitsubishi.

Finals action continues

Warriors are on the board

By Tara Murray

The Western Warriors are on the board in the Victorian Netball League by the barest of margins.

A goal to Kim Borger after the siren was the difference between the Warriors and Gippsland Stars on Wednesday night.

It was a slow start for the Warriors before they fought back, with the two sides going goal-for-goal a lot of the second half.

The Warriors snuck home, 54-53.

Warriors coach Kim Bailey said it wasn’t the prettiest game but they got the job done.

“We dug deep and come away with one goal,” she said.

“Kim Borger had the shot, what a player to have the ball in her hand.

“We started off slow and we come back and started talking about doing the basics extremely well.

“To their credit [the Stars] they had a great game as well.”

The Warriors were down by five at quarter time, with the margin back to two at the main break.

It was the Warriors leading by three goals heading into the final quarter.

Bailey said they were able to move their side around to find which combinations worked best.

“We had the luxury tonight [Wednesday] to change our midcourt a fair bit, we rotated Ruby [Shannon] into wing attack and left her there,” she said.

“We brought Kiara Boyd in for her first game with champ and she did an amazing

job in tandem with Kali Dolphin.

“They are games last year that we probably would have lost and it’s good to get the win.”

It was Fionnuala Mckeagney-Stubbs that was given the Warriors best for coming on and limiting the impact of shooter Sam Silvester.

Bailey said it was amazing to see her put out a performance like that.

“Finn had a job to do and she went out there and did it,” she said. “I’m really happy for her.

“It’s a really good story and that is one of the reasons why we coach.

“She had no confidence coming back to netball and I had tried to get her back for the last two years.

“When she gets on that court she just

changes.”

Borger finished with 28 goals, while Mia Lavis scored 24.

Bailey said that combination was growing and Lavis stamped her authority on the game, to make it hard to take her off the court.

It was a really good night for the Warriors, with the 23 and under side, winning 66-38.

The side hasn’t had a margin like that before.

She was full of praise for Charlize Bellette, who shot 20 goals at 90 per cent.

The Warriors now face the Bendigo Strikers in round three on 29 March at Cobblebank Stadium.

It’s the Warriors first home game of the season.

Former Diamond Manu’a joins the Tigers

By Tara Murray

Kyneton has pulled off one of the biggest signings in the Riddell District Netball League’s history.

The Tigers announced that Kristiana Manu’a has signed with the club in a massive boost for the side’s defensive end.

Manu’a, who announced her Suncorp Super Netball retirement last year, also played two matches for the Australian Diamonds and captained Samoa.

Kyneton coach David O’Hare said this was massive for the club and the league.

“We’ve been working on this for quite a while,” he said. “We were pretty happy when she said yes.

“We were able to throw it out there and see if there was any interest and we’re fortunate that she has come on board with us.”

O’Hare said they had some connections which led to the two parties connecting and it went from there.

He said the plan was for Manu’a to play as many games as possible, alongside her Bendigo Strikers’ Victorian Netball League commitments.

The VNL fixture works in the Tigers favour, with most of the Strikers’ Sunday games early in the season.

“She’s an ex-Diamond and someone that was playing SSN as late as last year,” he said.

“It’s a pretty big thing and obviously we are stoked about it.

“Footy-netball isn’t really a think in New South Wales. It’s something different for her and hopefully she gets a lot out of it.”

The signing of Manu’a will offset the departure of two-time Ryan medalist Tilly Shepherd, who has joined Gisborne in the Bendigo Netball League.

O’Hare said the arrival of Manu’a fills the void and then some.

“It’s one in, one out,” he said. “We are pretty happy.”

The Tigers will take in a similar line up to last season as they look to rise up the ladder.

Chelsea Hulm is the other inclusion for the Tigers and will be a key in the Tigers’ goaling end.

“It’s pretty business as usual,” O’Hare said.

“Chelsea Hulm comes into A-grade and she comes to us with pretty impressive feedback.

“Other than that, not many more changes.

“To be honest, I’m kind of happy about that I want to have a group that I can work with for a couple of years and build how I see fit.”

The Tigers finished in ninth in O’Hare’s first season in charge with four wins.

He said they weren’t far off finals and wanted to move up the ladder and close the gap on the top sides.

“We had three or four games that we were unlucky to lose last year,” he said.

“If we had won those games it would have put us up there for finals.

“You have to lose before you learn to win and we’ll look to push on from there.”

The Tigers will kick off their season on Good Friday against reigning premiers, Woodend-Hesket.

O’Hare said it would be a big day for the club and they would get a good test of where they stand.

Two divisons for EDFL women

The Essendon District Football League has reverted to two divisions for its women’s competition this season.

The competition will go back to two divisions for the first time since 2019. As reported by Star Weekly, the premier division will have nine teams this season, following the withdrawal of Greenvale.

The remaining 13 teams will play in the division 1 competition. Last season, the division 1 and 2 competitions both had six teams each.

This year’s division 1 competition will include Westmeadows, Burnside Heights, Keilor Park, Tullamarine and Coburg Districts who were in division 1 last season.

Division 2 teams in East Sunbury, Sunbury Kangaroos, Sunbury Lions, Roxburgh Park and Taylors Lakes will have sides in the expanded division.

Gisborne will have a standalone side after having a combined Gisborne-Kyneton United team as it won the division 2 premiership.

Craigieburn will enter a women’s side for the first time since 2019, while Airport West will have a women’s side after a one year hiatus.

The division 1 competition will kick off on 11 April.

In the opening round, Tullamarine will face Craigieburn, Burnside Heights is at home to Westmeadows, Keilor Park will play Coburg Districts, East Sunbury will host the Sunbury Lions, Gisborne will take on Taylors Lakes in a grand final rematch and the Sunbury Kangaroos take on Roxburgh Park in a twilight match. Airport West has the bye in round one.

The EDFL also released its fixture for its women’s reserves and under-19 competitions.

It will be a six team women’s reserves competition with Hillside, Aberfeldie, Oak Park, Maribyrnong Park, Essendon Doutta Stars and Moonee Valley having two teams.

East Sunbury had indicated it as aiming to get two sides up, but didn’t get the numbers. In the under-19s, there has been some good growth with the competition to have two divisions.

Three Western Football League clubs, Caroline Springs, Altona and Point Cook will field sides in the EDFL competition.

Sunbury sets big goals

By Tara Murray

Sunbury United has set the standard from round one in the FV state league 3 northwest competition.

Having narrowly missed out on promotion last season, Sunbury is keen to make sure it gets the job done this season.

Coach Jason Hayne said they haven’t shied away from what they want to achieve this season.

“Intheoffseasonwefocusedalotonthe way that we started last season,” he said. “It cost us towards the back half so we had a huge importance on really making sure we were focused and ready to go for round one.

“I’ve set the goal, expectation, that anything less than promotion is a disappoint-

ing season.

“The standards have been set. I think every club says that, the way that we finished last year, the back half of the year, something wanted to continue and carry forward.

“That fuelled our fire knowing that we were so close but so far away at the same time.”

Sunbury’s focus on being switched on right from the start showed in the side’s opening round win against Epping City on Friday night.

The game was all but over at half time with Sunbury leading 5-0 at the break.

A third goal to Alex Dimond late in the match made it a 6-0 win to kick off the season.

Damian Rastocic scored the other three

goals.

“The boys have been unbelievable and everything we worked on in pre-season just continued,” Hayne said.

“The first 45 minutes was exceptional, which we did the job in.

“Then we were just solid from just there.”

Hayne said that performance set the standard of how they want to play this season.

He said they weren’t going to accept mediocrity this year, and they need people to be pushing to keep their spots.

“We have a fantastic squad this year, super competitive,” he said. “No one is guaranteed anything.

“If the boys don’t stand up, they could be in and out pretty quickly.”

Leigh Brennan. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 541887_04

Dragons win through to third grand final

By Tara Murray

Gisborne is hoping to make history this weekend as it chases a third straight Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup premiership.

The Dragons won through to the final game of the season, with a strong performance against Romsey in the semi finals on the weekend.

“Obviously three grand finals in a row is a great achievement,” Dragons captain-coach Jarryd Vernon said.

“We know we still have a massive job against Woodend next week.”

Gisborne won the toss and decided to bowl first at Gardiner Reserve against Romsey in the weekend’s semi final.

Vernon said they were happy for much of the innings and had been on track to keep Romsey under 200.

“I thought we bowled really well and fielded really well,” he said.

“At 7-140 we were on top of the game. I thoughtthefieldingthendroppedofffor1520oversanditwassomethingweaddressed.

“Credit to Tim Dale and the Romsey boys. It was runs on the board and 30-40 more than it should have been.”

The Redbacks were bowled out for 229 in the final over of day one.

Dale finished with 90, while captain-coach Ben Way contributed 74 for Romsey.

VernontookfourwicketsfortheDragons, while Jay King and Leigh Brennan took two wickets each.

After not firing the last two or three games, the top order led the way for the Dragons in the run chase.

Having addressed that in the lead up to the final, they fired and gave the Dragons control of the match and they never let it go.

“For Spencer [Jones] and Brenton [Cook] to do what they did,” Vernon said.

“It helps getting off to a 116 stand and it only gets easier for those coming in afterwards.”

The Dragons finished 2-230, hitting the winning runs with nearly 27 overs remaining in a commanding performance with the bat.

For Sunbury, which hasn’t had success in many years, it finds itself in a different position to where it has been.

Hayne said people were seeing the culture they were putting together and wanted to get involved.

“Everyone is aware of the culture and the actual team that we are building,” he said. “It makes a huge difference that we retained 14 or 15 from last season.

“We only had to bring in those few extra spots and the depth and quality that we’ve bought in, is exceptional.

“In terms of signing players, we pretty much signed all our team by just before Christmas and never been in that position before.”

Sunbury faces Plenty Valley Lions in round two.

Ballarat FL

Former North Melbourne and West Coast Eagle Drew Petrie will coach the Ballarat Football League’s under-23 interleague team.. Petrie said he was excited by the opportunity to lead the BFL’s emerging representative side. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to coach the BFNL under-23 interleague team this year,” he said. “When Paul Armstrong called to offer me the role, I didn’t hesitate. “It’s a privilege to represent the players and the league, and I’m committed to giving everything I can to the role.”

Talent League

It was a tough start to the Talent League season for the Calder Cannons. The Cannons were at home in their opening round match with the Western Jets and trailed at every break. The margin was 10 points at quarter time before it was reduced to just one at the main break. Six goals to none in favour of the Jets opened the game up. While the Cannons won the final quarter, it wasn’t enough with the Jets winning, 16.8 (104)-10.15 (75). Jack Dodorico kicked three goals for the Cannons with Nicholas Staropoli and Charlie Tudor named their best.

FV

Cook finished with 115 not out, while Vernonmade59off55ballstohelpfinishoff the run chase.

Vernon said Cook fell into their laps at the start of the season and the experienced campaigner had fitted in really well.

“He has been outstanding and made some scores throughout the year,” he said.

“To get 100, he played beautifully. We knew that the score was around the corner.”

Gisborne will face Woodend in the grand final on Saturday-Sunday at Greenhill Reserve in Wallan.

The two sides have already played off in the one-day grand final earlier this year, with Gisborne winning that. Woodend won the other clash between the sides this season.

Vernon said the two best sides this season were playing in the grand final.

“We are trying to go three in a row and they are trying to win their first in a while,” he said.

“Hopefully the weather stays away and we can have a shot at creating a bit of history.”

It was a tough start to the FV state league 7 north-west season for Gisborne. Facing Murray United, one of the early favours in the new division, the Sky Blues suffered a 5-0 loss at Dixon Field. All five goals were scored in the second half. The Sky Blues face the Footscray Rangers in round two.

CVFL

The Wedge-Tailed Eagles have named some recruits ahead of the Central Victoria Football League women’s season. Mads and Aisha Mansfield have both joined the club and will add depth in key positions. Demi Henderson and Kasey Button are first year players who have joined the Wedge-Tailed Eagles. Brooke Cowan and Peta Turnbull are the latest re-signings announced for the club.

DRAGONS THROUGH AGAIN

MANU’A JOINS TIGERS

Woodend go into granny

By Tara Murray

WoodendishopingtowinitsfirstMcIntyre Cup premiership in more than 20 years afterwinningthroughtothegrandfinalon Sunday.

After finishing top last season and being knocked out in the semi finals, Woodend made sure that history didn’t repeat itself. On the weekend, Woodend was able to get the win against Rupertswood in the semi finals to make it through to the final game of the season.

Woodend coach Josh Eastley said they wereprettyexcitedtohavetheopportunity.

“It’sreallygoodandwe’reexcitedtobein the big dance,” he said. “We fell short last year.

“Last year to return after a few years out of finals was really good. We learned a lot from that and we worked hard to get here and get it done.”

Afterwinningthetoss,Woodenddecided to bat against Rupo on Saturday.

Eastley said they were hoping for a score above 200, to give them something solid to defend.

They got their wish, with Woodend finishing day one at 9-238.

“Daniel[Eastley]gotusoverthelinewith a classy innings,” Josh said of his brother. “HimandHarrisonSheahanstucktogether and didn’t take much risk.

“That 200 mark was something that we were comfortable defending.”

Daniel top scored with 57 not out off 101 balls while captain Marcus Stewart made 54 at number three.

Josh said his brother had moved down the order this season having been an opener and had been the glue of their line up this season.

“He has been phenomenal and his glove work has been really good as well.”

Rhys Berry, Kyle Corcoran and Kevin Barker took two wickets each for Rupo.

On Sunday, Woodend started well with the ball and had Rupo in trouble early.

Rupo skipper Matt Twentyman had rescued the side a number of times this season including the last few weeks and joined Barker at the crease.

“Warren Else was able to do it again,” Eastley said. “To get Matt for a duck was

a bonus, but we need to get another 10 wickets.

“Kevin batted well before we got him not long after tea.”

Once Barker was out, Woodend ran through the tail and bowled Rupo out for 145.

Barker top scored with 54.

Else finished with four wickets and Thomas Robson with three.

Woodend will now face Gisborne in the grand final at Greenhill Reserve in Wallan on Saturday and Sunday.

Eastley said they had been chatting in the rooms and believed they were going for their first McIntyre Cup premiership since 2003-04.

The two sides faced off in the one-day final earlier this season, with the Dragons winning.

“They are a quality out right and really professional,” Eastley said of Gisborne.

“We have to bring our A-game.

“We have got them once and they got us the other time. We haven’t played each other in a two-day game this season.”

Loss drives on Burras

By Tara Murray

A fire has been lit for Diggers Rest Bulla after falling short in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield grand final on the weekend.

Eastern Hill on Sunday completed the perfect season and showed why the side had been clearly the best team all season with a commanding win.

For Burras captain-coach Evan Long there was disappointment with the result along with a sense of pride.

“I’mproudbutwecouldn’tgetthere in the end,” he said. “Our twos last by 10 runs as well. It drives the hunger.

“After where they have been ... we’ve been talking at the club about whatwehaveachievedandthatitwill take us forward. I’m super proud of the team and the club as a whole.”

Long, who joined the club this season,saidoneofthebigthingsearly on was about setting a good culture. He said they had done that and it had reflected in the results that they had seen this season.

For the Burras, the grand final to Eastern Hill was lost on day one.

The Burras won the toss and decided to bat on Saturday. They were bowled out for 104 in the 54th over which was never going to be enough.

Long said Eastern Hill was clearly the benchmark and it showed in the side’s grand final performance.

“Their bowling attack is relentless,” Long said. “They took advantage of that and held their catches.

“We lost a couple of wickets just before tea, myself included and it opened the game. We were five down at that point and we missed the opportunity to cash in.”

Jacob Grant top scored with the Burras as just four batters reached double figures.

Eastern Hill was 1-29 at stumps.

Long said they bowled well, but Eastern Hill didn’t take any risks.

“Charlie Hammond-Collins arguably bowled the best he had all season,” he said. “He took one wicket and created some chances. He’s a 20-year-old kid and will leap forward next year.”

Eastern Hill chased the runs down in a “canter” on day two, finishing 3-105.

Long said the conversation back at the club on Sunday night had already turned to next season.

“I wish I could bottle what’s here tonight [Sunday],” he said.

“We made a huge leap forward and hopefully this time next year we’re talking about going up into McIntyre.”