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A Star News Group Publication
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Going ‘all in’ The Memo was bursting with Indigenous pride and culture for this year’s National Reconciliation Week with engaging musical acts, Truth-telling discussions and community connections. It took place on Thursday 28 May, wrapping up the Yarra Ranges Council’s massive cultural program. Acclaimed Indigenous hip-hop sensation Baker Boy rocked the stage, an in-depth panel discussion was facilitated by Aunty Lea Jones and Kiernan Ironfield delivered an exciting performance. Students from Worawa Aboriginal College were having an absolute blast in the crowd, while councillors watched on and enjoyed the spectacular show. The 2026 event highlighted the national theme “All In,” a call to action for every Australian to move beyond the sidelines and take active steps toward unity. “This year’s theme for National Reconciliation Week asks us all to commit to reconciliation every single day,” Yarra Ranges Mayor Richard Higgins said. “If we’re ‘All In,’ we can start to make positive change.” Read more on page 4
Baker Boy was a hit among Worawa Aboriginal College students. (Stewart Chambers: 556198)
Umpire ‘feeling OK’ By Callum Ludwig An umpire collapsed during a football match on Saturday 23 May leaving onlookers shocked and concerned. During the third quarter of the Eastern Football Netball League (EFNL) clash between Coldstream and Silvan, field umpire John Bonfadini collapsed on the field, requiring emergency assistance from nurses in the crowd and a transfer to hospital. Luckily, Mr Bonfadini was reported in a stable
condition by his brother and many have sent their best wishes for his recovery. The Silvan Football Netball Club said in a statement Mr Bonfadini was transferred to Box Hill Hospital where he’ll have a bypass surgery. “John is very thankful for those who provided hands-on assistance, in particular the nurses on hand and medical staff from both clubs on the day. He is also most thankful for the first responders who attended to him on Saturday,” it reads. “The Club would again like to thank everyone for the care they’ve shown the past few days
in reaching out to John and his family. To all the players, coaches, trainers and support staff from both Clubs, we couldn’t be more proud and thankful for how you all navigated a path through a distressing time.” Mr Bonfadini is a lifelong member of the Silvan Football Netball Club. EFL Umpires Association (EFLUA) president David Parker said in a statement that the association is extremely relieved that Mr Bonfadini is okay. “On behalf of the EFLUA, I would like to sin-
cerely thank both the Coldstream Football Netball and Silvan Football Netball Club for their immediate response and support provided to John at the ground,” he said. “In particular, I want to acknowledge and thank the nurses who quickly came to John’s aid and remained with him until paramedics arrived. “Their care and professionalism were greatly appreciated.” Read more on page 11
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