Star Weekly - Sunbury Macedon Ranges - 2nd June 2026

Rates pain on the rise

By Georgia Tacey

More than 25,000 households in Hume are behind on their rates bill, taking the city’s overdue rates bill to more than $50 million.

A report to the 25 May Hume council meeting revealed the municipality was experiencing a rates crisis with unpaid rates across the municipality totalling $50.77 million as of 31 March. The report said $26.69 million of that was overdue from previous years while $24.08 million related to the 2025-26 financial year.

According to council, 25,030 properties have overdue rates – 6649 of which are already on payment plans.

Thereportsaid 3580accountswerewith debt collectors, totalling $26.76 million in unpaid rates.

Overdue text messages were sent to affectedratepayersafter31March,officers said, with $2.95 million paid by 24 April, bringingthetotalamountofoverduerates to $47.83 million with 21,762 accounts still unpaid.

Northern Community Legal Centre said the organisation is witnessing ongoing and increasing financial pressure on Hume residents.

Thelegalcentresaidthepeopleitassists are facing compounding cost-of-living pressures that are continuing to rise, and for households on low or fixed incomes, council rates are often one of several bills

they simply can’t afford.

“What we’re seeing in Hume is not just a budgeting issue for households – it’s a reflection of sustained financial pressure and growing inequality. Many families simply do not have enough income to cover basic living costs, let alone keep up with rates,” Northern Community Legal Centre chief executive Jenni Smith said.

“Financial hardship rarely exists in isolation. We regularly see people facing a combination of housing stress, family violence, separation, and insecure work. These overlapping challenges make it incredibly difficult to stay on top of bills and avoid falling into debt.”

The legal centre said it has seen a 92 per cent increase in demand for debt-related legal assistance over the past two years.

In response to ongoing demand, the centre has established a dedicated economic justice team of lawyers and a financial counsellor focused on housing stress and financial hardship.

However, Ms Smith said the demand continues to exceed what the centre can provide.

“The number of ratepayers on payment arrangements and those referred to debt collection agencies highlights how widespread financial stress has become,” she said.

“Whilepaymentplanscanhelp,theyare not always enough when households are already stretched beyond their means.”

Boot scootin’ holiday fun

Rising Sun Dancers are hosting two line dancing classes during the school holidays for some all ages fun.

Linedance tutor and choreographer Debra Ciavarella will run both sessions, designed for parents to work alongside their kids.

“It’s a cheap thing for parents, grandparents and young kids to do,” she said.

Ms Ciavarella has been line dancing for a number of years, and after teaching with University of the Third Age in Brimbank years ago, she is bringing her skills to Sunbury for some trial classes.

“I think it’d be fantastic for the community, for the grandparents to do something they love,” she said.

“It’s a good activity, and it’s good for your brain.”

She said she wants people to have fun, learn a dance or two and feel confident through the classes.

The sessions will take place at 10.30am on Monday 29 June and Monday 6 July at the Sunbury Community Centre, with prices at $12 for adults and $2 for one child. Bookings are essential. Bookings: debrajayne17@yahoo.com. au

June waste-to-energy date

By Georgia Tacey

HiQ will submit its application for the Sunbury waste-to-energy facility to the EnvironmentalProtectionAuthorityVictoria in June.

The date was revealed during questioning when HiQ chief executive Mark Rodgers and chief strategy officer Lance Ingrams fronted the third public hearing for the Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure Committee’s inquiry into the development and expansion of waste-to-energy infrastructure in Victoria.

While facing questioning from com-

mittee member Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank, Mr Rodgers and Mr Ingrams said they anticipate lodging the assessment reports to the EPA in June for the Sunbury proposal.

HiQ proposes establishing a waste-to-energy plant at its Sunbury EcoHub site on Sunbury Road. The state government granted the company a waste-to-energy operating cap license allowing it to accept up to 750,000 tonnes of waste per year.

HiQ’s date to submit its application has been pushed back a number of times, with the company initally telling Star Weekly it

planned to lodge it by the end of 2025.

The proposed project has raised concern among some Sunbury residents. The most recent protest action was a rally held on Sunbury’s Village Green on 24 May.

The committee’s first public hearing was also held in Sunbury, with local residents and members of the No Sunbury Waste Incinerator group fronting the inquiry.

New facilities help Kyneton netball play on

It’s game on for Kyneton netball, with two new courts and pavilion unveiled at the Kyneton Showgrounds.

Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas joined Macedon Ranges mayor Kate Kendall and the Kyneton Football Netball Club to officially launch the new netball facilities. The two courts feature a new asphalt surface complete with 200 lux competition standard LED lighting, fencing, team shelters, accessible parking, and new pathways.

Also included in the works is a new

netball pavilion complete with female friendly change rooms, umpire rooms, a first aid room, accessible public amenities, administration room, storage space, and a covered player and spectator viewing area with seating.

The upgrade was delivered by $1.5 million from the state government and a further $1.4 million from council. Kyneton Football Netball Club netball director Loryn Savoia said this significant upgrade is huge for the club and community.

“Prior to this we were all using a single

court which wasn’t safe, and the storage shed (which doubled as a change room) was mouldy, rat infested and had trees growing inside it,” she said.

Ms Savoia said the one court has been there since the club began in 1991, and there had been a strong push over the past 10 years for more courts to support the growing netball community in Kyneton. “The upgrades allow us all to train together now, as one club and one community, which is a significant positive,” she said.

New Sunbury wetland to help reduce flood risk from stormwater

A new wetland is being created in Sunbury. Sunbury MP Josh Bull announced funding for the O’Brien Street stormwater harvesting project, which will create a new wetland to help reduce flood risk and irrigate local green spaces.

The wetland will be created from the current flood basin to supply captured rainwater to irrigate Sunbury Cemetery and Kathleen Aitken Park, which the state government said will save drinking water by harvesting around 10.3 megalitres of stormwater yearly.

“The O’Brien Street stormwater har-

vesting project is a smart, future-focused investment that captures water we would otherwise lose and puts it back into our parks and open spaces,” Mr Bull said.

Stormwater flows and associated pollutants will be treated by the project, providing valuable waterway and biodiversity benefits to Jacksons Creek.

The project, part of the state government’s $24 million of Integrated Water Management grants will be cofunded by local councils and water corporations.

The $2.7 million project has received $567,000 from the state government,

which will be matched by Hume council, with Greater Western Water providing the majority of funding.

Greater Western Water general manager strategy and partnerships Kessia Thomson welcomed the project for Sunbury.

“We’re thrilled to be working in partnership with Hume City Council, this is the first stormwater harvesting scheme to be funded under Greater Western Water’s latest stormwater harvesting partnership program,” she said.

Mr Rodgers said all red bin waste would be available for thermal treatment. Mr Ingrams added that the system can handle many different types of variables aided by technology.

The committee is due to report back on its findings in August.

As part of the inquiry, HiQ lodged a formal submission highlighting the benefits of waste-to-energy in addressing the state’s growing waste challenge, while delivering the dual benefit of energy generation. Its submission also included a call for action to embed household-level source separation to ensure waste is appropriately managed at the point of generation. Red bin waste and waste separation were questioned by the committee during the hearing.

Hume pushes for federal bill of rights

Hume council will call on the federal government to develop an Australian Bill of Rights in hope that human rights become consistent nationwide.

Australia does not have a bill of rights, instead human rights are protected through the constitution and state and territory legislation.

Hume council agreed to write to the federal government as part of a motion where it endorsed changes to its own social justice charter at its 25 May meeting.

The Hume Social Justice Charter upholds protections in the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities, including the right to equality and fair treatment, safety from harm and privacy protection.

Councillor Kate Hamley said federal legislation is the missing gap in protecting human rights.

“It’s great that Victoria has these laws but it’s missing from other states and that’s where we see people fall through the cracks and see our human rights going backwards interstate,” she said.

Queensland, Victorian and the Australian Capital Territory are the only jurisdictions in Australia with dedicated human rights charters.

In 2001 Hume council became the first level of government in Australia to adopt a social justice charter and then the first to adopt a bill of rights in 2004.

Hume no longer has its own bill of rights, instead it updates the social justice charter to align with state legislative rights.

“It shows just how much we value the human rights and the dignity of our community and … how we engage with our community, empower them and lift each other up,” Cr Hamley said.

Key changes in the 2026 Hume Social Justice Charter include a stronger commitment to accountability and recognition of intersectionality.

This is the seventh time Hume council has revised and re-committed to its social justice charter.

Cr Naim Kurt said the council is known for this commitment to human rights and social justice.

“When people think of Hume, they think of these policies that were introduced 25 years ago,” Cr Kurt said.

Council will exhibit the updated Hume Social Justice Charter to the public until 16 June, before it adopts a final version in July.

School shortage concerns

By Georgia Tacey

The lack of public secondary education across the Macedon Ranges has raised concernsfromthemayor,withtwonewdevelopments set to rapidly expand the population.

At the 27 May council meeting, mayor Kate Kendall moved a notice of motion to write to the Department of Education to receive an update on the status and future planning for public secondary education provision across the shire.

Cr Kendall also questioned what the triggers would be for a new secondary college to be built, including population and enrolment criteria.

Council will seek clarification if any land across the shire has been identified, reserved or required for future public secondary education.

Cr Kendall said with the approved Amess Road, Riddells Creek development and the Clarkefield development that’s currently under consideration with the state government, the population is going to explode, and is questioning the state government if they’re included in population forecasting for education enrolment.

“Amess Road in Riddells Creek will see an increase of 1360 new homes and approximately 3800 residents, in … Clarke-

field, we may see an increase of 2300 new homes and approximately 6400 residents using the same modeling,” she said.

Cr Kendall said the population across the shire was more than 53,000 in 2024, and with other developments approved and on the horizon, she said it’s now time to look at the future.

She also called for the 2018 Romsey School consultation to be revisited or renewed by the state government, as currently the eastern side of the shire does not have a high school.

Across the shire, there are only two public secondary schools, and a further five specialist or catholic secondary schools.

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Help preloved art to find a new home

Sunbury Neighbourhood House (SNH) is hosting a special fundraiser full of local art.

The Preloved Art Fundraiser is a new initiative by the house, and SNH chair Win Laing said the idea was driven by the Repair Cafe volunteers. “The volunteers there thought it was a good idea we could keep photos and pictures out and give them another home,” she said.

“People who have artwork they no longer want to have on their walls or they might have inherited it or it might have been behind a cupboard door to donate it to us.”

To celebrate the fundraiser, SNH will also host a launch night to celebrate the diverse collection of artworks ready to find their new home. It will also be a chance to connect with the house, art lovers and the wider community, all while supporting local creativity.

“We’ve got some embroidery, we’ve got a lot of prints, some posters, all donated by our community,” Ms Laing said.

The money raised through the fundraiser will go towards the house, to keep running programs for the community.

“It’s an exciting new project for us, and

we hope that it will be really successful and also brighten up the neighbourhood house with all these pictures on our walls,” Ms Laing said.

“The artwork will be displayed on our walls for people to come in and admire, and hopefully make a donation towards the operation of the house.”

The launch night for the Preloved Art Fundraiser will be held from 5pm 19 June at the house, with the fundraiser running until 19 July. Registrations are required for catering purposes.

Details: tinyurl.com/yrf6njhs

Council grants provide a boost for Hume’s arts scene

Artists and community groups have benefited from the latest round of Hume’s arts grants.

Endorsed by councillors at the 25 May meeting, $72,684 was distributed between the 16 successful applicants as part of the 2025 program.

Three community groups shared in $40,000 under the Creative Project Grant scheme.

Omnia Community Health’s BoilOver Performance Ensemble received a $14,666 grant for its new performance GLIMMER, which will activate Artrise and present three public performances to celebrate International Day of People with a Disability 2026.

Tawasul Foundation also received $14,666 for its Hume Arts Fusion program, designed to engage artists 50 years and older from migrant and refugee backgrounds.

PaparazziDesignStudioreceived$10,668 for its Creative Connections 10-week inclusive art and craft program for Hume seniors.

A further $32,684 was distributed between 13 individuals and groups for Creative Activity Grants.

Humecommunitymemberswereawarded a maximum of $3000 for a variety of projects, including workshops, exhibitions, installations, novels, children’s books and more.

Councillor Jarrod Bell, who moved the

recommendation to endorse the successful applicants, welcomed the funding for the community.

“We saw this year a diverse response from applications from across our community not only in practice and in age and in experience but in the medium, in craft, in music, in theatre and in dance,” he said.

“These successful projects reflect the depth and diversity of our city and of the creative practice that calls our city home and includes programs for seniors, disability led performances and creative development opportunities for older artists from migrant refugee backgrounds but from all parts of our city as well.”

Currently, Clarkefield is zoned to Sunbury College for secondary education, while Riddells Creek is zoned to Gisborne Secondary College.

“There’s not been a new public secondary school established since 1981,” Cr Kendall said.

A Department of Education spokesperson said enrolments and population projections are monitored annually.

Star Weekly understands the current analysis confirms there is enough capacity of existing schools to accommodate growth across the Macedon Ranges.

Hume event grants are now open

Applications are open now for Hume council’s 2026-27 Event Grant Program.

The second round of the program is for funding of community and neighbourhood events, held between 1 January, 2027 and 30 June, 2027.

Council said it is seeking applicants for small events with up to 1000 attendees, with up to $2000 in funding support available.

Medium community events with up to 3000 attendees are also able to apply for up to $12,000 in funding support.

Council is also hosting three online information sessions for applicants to find out more about the program and how to apply.

The first session is held from 1-2pm on Thursday 4 June.

The second will be held from 6-7pm on Tuesday 23 June and the third session will be held from 11am-midday on Wednesday 1 July.

Mayor Carly Moore encouraged the community to apply for the grants.

“I regularly attend events across Hume, and nothing makes me prouder than seeing our community come together to showcase the best our city has to offer,” she said.

“Community events play a vital role in everyday wellbeing and fostering pride in where we live. These grants make sure organisers have the support they need to bring people together in a meaningful way.”

Applications for the second round will close at 4pm on 6 July.

Details: hume.vic.gov.au/Things-todo/Events/Event-Grants

Tower of opposition builds

A controversial push to fast-track one of the state’s biggest energy transmission projects has intensified after confirmation energy giant AusNet applied for compulsory land acquisition powers for the Western Renewables Link project, causing the controversial project to enter a new and increasingly bitter phase. Jack O’Shea-Ayres spoke to farmers to find out what the project means for the west’s landowners.

AusNet’s Western Renewables Link (WRL) project culminates in a proposed high-voltage electricity transmission line stretching about 190 kilometresfromBulganainwesternregional Victoria to Sydenham in Melbourne’s north-west.

The project is designed to transport renewable energy generated in Western Victoria into the state’s electricity grid, forming a key part of the state’s broader energy transition as coal-fired power stations progressively work to retirement overthecomingdecades.

Planners argue new transmission infrastructure is essential as renewable energyprojectsareoftenlocatedinregional areas far from major population centres, and without new transmission lines, the electricity generated by those projects cannotbedeliveredefficientlytohomesand businesses.

For many farmers along the proposed route, the project has become one of the mostdivisiveinfrastructurebattlesVictoria hasseeninrecentyears.Plumptonresident BarbaraFord,whosepropertysitsalongthe proposed route, is more than familiar with theprocess.

“After five and a half years, AusNet still hasn’tmanagedtoconvincethecommunity that this is a project we should be happy to host,” Mrs Ford said. “We were assured it wouldhavetogothrougharigorousprocess andmightnotevenbeapproved.”

However the latest flashpoint centres on AusNet’sapplicationtothestategovernment forcompulsoryacquisitionpowers.

InMarch,thetheWRLwrotetolandowners advising them of recent legislative changes to the Electricity Industry Act 2000. Then, on 6 May, landholders were informed AusNet had formally applied for powers to compulsorily acquire easements on propertiesaffectedbytheproject.

AusNet does not currently hold those powersandit’suptothestategovernmentto ultimatelydecidewhethertheyaregranted.

A WRL spokesperson said transmission companieshavelonghadtheabilitytoseek compulsory acquisition powers for power line easements, but insisted the company stillpreferrednegotiatedoutcomes.

“Despite the legislative changes, we hope to reach voluntary agreements with all landowners and our absolute priority is to continue to negotiate and enter into voluntary agreements that reflect their needs and circumstances,” the spokespersonsaid.

AusNet said informing landowners was now intended to provide “certainty and clarity” about possible pathways and timelines.

AusNet also stressed the project’s independentenvironmenteffectsstatement (EES)process,alegallyrequiredassessment of the potential environmental impacts of a proposed development, remains ongoing andunchanged.

“Construction of the project will not begin until the Victorian minister for planninghasissuedherassessmentandthe project has actioned any recommendations and received all required planning and environmental approvals,” the spokespersonsaid.

Mrs Ford confirmed she had received a letterfromAusNet.

“They sent us a letter, which was more or less an intimidating type of warning that if we don’t voluntarily sign up, they’re doing this even before the outcome of the EES process,”shesaid.

You cannot seriously claim a process is voluntary when one party is applying for the legal power to take the land away. That completely undermines consent and is a slap in the face to every landholder

- Peter Star

The application for compulsory acquisition powers represents a major turningpointforopponentsoftheproject.

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has reacted furiously, accusing AusNet and thestategovernmentofescalatingpressure on landholders before the project has even completed environmental and planning assessments.

VFF acting president Peter Star slammed the move as a “disgrace” and a betrayal of farmingcommunities.

“This is a deeply concerning step and the government should reject it outright,” he said.

TheVFFarguestheapplicationeffectively creates a “coercion-first, approval-later” approachtoitsinfrastructuredelivery.

According to the organisation, communities are still participating in the EES process in good faith while simultaneously being warned their land could ultimately be acquired regardless of objections.

“That would be a huge mistake and to be honest,anabsolutedisgrace,”MrStarsaid.

Overall the move has left a bad taste in farmers’ mouths, with the federation also accusing the project of using aggressive tactics toward landholders throughout the consultationprocess.

It’s a fight Moorabool council has been involvedinforyearsnow,andaprojectchief executiveDerekMaddenhascondemned.

“The proposed Western Renewables Link has many unacceptable impacts, including economic, bushfire, social, agricultural, landscape and visual, which was a focus of council’ssubmissions,”MrMaddensaid.

He said Moorabool’s community would continuetocomefirst.

“Council is focused on continuing to support our community as they navigate complex systems and life-changing challengesresultingfromthisproject.”

Compensation arrangements are required under state law, however critics argue the very existence of compulsory acquisition powers changes the nature of negotiations.

“You cannot seriously claim a process is voluntarywhenonepartyisapplyingforthe legal power to take the land away,” Mr Star said. “That completely undermines consent andisaslapinthefacetoeverylandholder.”

For many landowners like Mrs Ford, it meansasadoutcome.

“We’re seriously looking at leaving the area,”sheexplained.

“There’s no certainty for anyone to actually know what’s happening. It all feels abit‘Sosad,buttoobad’.”

Concerns raised by landholders have extended beyond compensation as many farmers worry about long-term impacts on agricultural productivity, aerial spraying, biosecurity, future property sales, and intergenerationalsuccessionplanning.

Others say the conflict reflects a deeper breakdown in trust between regional communities, government agencies, and infrastructuredevelopers.

The VFF warned the government’s decision on AusNet’s application could set a precedent for future projects across the state.

“This must be stopped before it becomes the new standard for how communities are treatedacrossVictoria,”MrStarsaid.

“Anything other will totally enrage rural communities that to be honest have lost total faith that they matter in the face of thesemega-projects.”

For now, the state government has not indicated whether it will approve AusNet’s application.

But as the renewable energy transition accelerates, the WRL is rapidly becoming far more than a debate about transmission towers as it evolves into a defining political and social battle over who carries the burden of the state’s future of renewable energy.

Changerooms are ‘draconian’

By Georgia Tacey

UsersofTonyClarkeReserveinMacedonare screaming out for urgent upgrades or a temporary solution as the facilities are becoming almost unusable for players.

Macedon Football Netball Club is leading the advocacy plea for its over five user groups, saying there is one only changeroom each for home and away teams, with both women and men’s teams sharing the facility that includes one big open room with doorless showers.

Macedon Football Netball Club president Ron Rutledge said the club was the second largest in the Riddell Football

Netball League, but the facilities did not match the demand the club faces.

“We currently have three AFL female teams that work out of the changerooms at Tony Clarke which have one cubicle and one toilet and that’s it, there’s no other facilities available,” he said.

“It is very draconian and not reflective of 2026 needs and it is probably the worst facility in the Macedon Ranges shire for a female changeroom.”

Mr Rutledge said the club and other user groups have called on Macedon Ranges council, Macedon MP MaryAnne Thomas and McEwen MP Rob Mitchell for urgent support and fixes.

“We are calling for portables to be

instated so our female players can get changed in private for the short-term,”

Mr Rutledge said.

Ms Thomas said she has seen the state of the changerooms and facilities, and said it was clear they were past its use-by date. She called on council to support the clubs.

Mr McEwen said the lack of female and male changerooms was of great concern, and has written to council.

Council assets and operations director Dom Testoni said council agreed the changerooms do not reflect expectations for privacy, comfort and inclusion.

Mr Testoni said councillors met with user groups on Thursday 21 May and are

Sunbury Downs students get Seussical

Sunbury Downs College students are bringing your favourite Dr Seuss characters to life in their school production.

Seussical Jr will star all the classic book characters including Horton from Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, The Sour Kangaroo, with the college students taking a leading role as they bring the fan favourite musical to a Sunbury stage. Year nine student Leni will bring the role of Gertrude McFuzz

to life, and said the musical mash-up is one not to miss.

Leni said she decided to take part because she loves theatre, and finds the school productions very fun.

Year seven student Emma, who will be playing the Sour Kangaroo, said this was her first show, and something she’s wanted to do for a long time. “In grade five when I came to the school and saw the Sunbury Downs production, I

Watch out for wood heater smoke this winter

Winter weather has hit Melbourne’s north and west, prompting the Environment Protection Authoity to issue guidelines on reducing wood heater smoke.

The amount of smoke a chimney produces depends heavily on the condition of the heater, the flue, and the quality of the wood used.

Wood heater owners are legally required under the Environment Protection Act’s General Environmental Duty to minimise smoke emissions, which means taking active steps to manage their appliances.

To achieve less smoke and more heat, residents should have their chimneys professionally cleaned every year, burn only dry, clean wood, and extinguish the fire completely before going to bed or leaving the house.

Leaving a fire to smoulder overnight or while away is highly inefficient, generates excessive smoke, and creates a distinct fire hazard.

It is also important to consider alternative heating sources on calm days with very little wind to prevent smoke from settling over local neighbourhoods.

Choosing the right fuel is critical for air quality. Residents must avoid burning inappropriate materials such as coal, coke, driftwood, household rubbish, painted wood, chemically treated timber, or the green-coloured pine logs commonly found in parks and playgrounds, as these release harmful toxins.

Wood smoke contains fine particles that pose serious health risks, particularly in the built-up residential areas across the northern and western suburbs.

The people most sensitive to this smoke are those with heart or lung conditions such as asthma, pregnant women, infants, young children, those aged 65 years and over, and people with diabetes.

Details: www.epa.vic.gov.au/managesmoke-wood-heaters.

thought it was a really fun and cool experience to meet more people,” Emma said.

Year 10 student Joy is taking on the role of Horton the Elephant, and loves acting and singing. Sunbury Downs production coordinator and director Ryan Patterson said the students had worked hard on the production. Seussical Jr will be performed at Sunbury Downs College between 11-13 June.

working with them to consider potential long-term and interim improvements.

“Council has completed detailed designs for upgraded, female-friendly changerooms at the Tony Clarke Pavilion that align with AFL and Cricket Australia standards,” he said.

“Delivery of this project is subject to external funding, with council having applied for $250,000 through Sport and Recreation Victoria and committing a further $380,000 in its Draft Budget 202627.

“Outcomes of this funding application are expected later this year.”

A new masterplan was also identified as a medium-term priority for council.

Donate to help furry friends stay warm

With winter now upon us, Lort Smith Animal Hospital is asking locals to come together in support of their furry friends that need to stay warm this winter.

Australia’s largest not-for-profit animal hospital has launched Operation Snugglebug, the hospital’s annual winter blanket, towel and treats drive.

Lort Smith spokesperson Suzana Talevski said more than 20,000 animals depend on the kindness of strangers every year across its North Melbourne and Campbellfield sites.

‘’As a hospital without any ongoing government funding we are always so humbled by the way the community comes together to help take care of those in need. Victorian’s love their pets so much so the thought of other dogs and cats being in need is something that really does resonate with so many people in our communities. So this year we are asking everyone to think of us when putting together their winter shopping list,” she said.

All donations will be used at the North Melbourne hospital and Campbellfield adoption centre.

‘’Being in a hospital or shelter can feel overwhelming for many pets. Soft, cozy blankets provide a calming sense of security that promotes better sleep and lowers stress,’’ Ms Talevski said.

‘’We go through hundreds of blankets daily as they must frequently washed, rotated, or safely discard to prevent the spread of diseases.”

Donations can be dropped off or couriered to Lort Smith Animal Hospital, 24 Villiers Street, North Melbourne, or Campbellfield Clinic and Adoption Centre, 25-35 Berwick Road, Campbellfield.

Ranges residents recognised

The winners of the Macedon Ranges 2026 CommunityAwardshavebeenrevealed.

Held on Friday 22 May in Kyneton, the celebration recognised community volunteers and leaders, with awards given acrosseightcategories.

The awards, conducted by Macedon Ranges council, recognise outstanding contributions across the shire, from youth leadershipandenvironmentalstewardship to arts, wellbeing and community inclusion, highlighting the vital role locals playinbuildingconnectedcommunities.

Citizen of the Year was awarded to KathleenWyattforheroutstandingservice tocommunitysafety.

Two Young Citizens of the Year were awarded. Tate Kemp was recognised for his advocacy for disability inclusion through All Abilities Public Speaking, and MatildaMatthewsforheryouthleadership, community volunteering and advocacy for socialjusticeandyouthvoices.

The Youth Leadership award went to Molly Clare for her mentor role with Full Spectrum Theatre, and Natalie Davis was awarded for her Contribution to CommunityArts.

The Inclusive Communities award went to Social Foundry, Contribution to Environment went to the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network and Contribution to Sports and Wellbeing was awarded to WoodendCricketClub.

The eighth award for Community Event of the Year went to Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group Veg Action for the EdgyVegAwards.

Mayor Kate Kendall said the award recipients exemplify the community spirit thatdefinestheMacedonRanges.

“Their contributions strengthen our communities, support others, and help make the Macedon Ranges such a special placetolive.”

A total of 35 nominations were received

“These award winners are making a real difference – often quietly and without expectationofrecognition,”shesaid.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

35 years ago

4 June, 1991

A rising tide of anger against the state government is close to boiling over in the Macedon Ranges and Central Highlands because development – and plenty of it – is on the cards if Conservation and Environment Minister Steve Crabb hands control of regional water resources to the Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works.

20 years ago 6 June, 2006

Just over a year on, the Sunbury Police Youth and Citizens’ Club is reaping tangible rewards with local young people.

acrosstheeightcategories.

In addition to celebrating award recipients, council also acknowledged the many volunteers – both across the community and within council – whose ongoingeffortssupportprograms,services andlocalinitiativesyear-round.

15 years ago 31 May, 2011

It was the first “63 steps” in what has become an irrepressible campaign for life.

10 years ago 31 May, 2016

Sunbury’smostnotorioustraffichotspot will get a $6.4 million upgrade, with lights set to replace the roundabout at theintersectionofGapRoadandHorne Street.

Cathouse Players are back

The Cathouse Players is gearing up for its first performance of the 2026 season.

Not Now, Darling, by Ray Cooney and John Chapman, is set in London in the ‘70s in the exclusive fur salon of Bodley, Bodley and Crouch.

The Cathouse Players artistic director Bette Sartore said she endeavours to source well-written “audience pleasers” to entertain and lift the spirits of the community.

“JohnChapmanandRayCooney’sclassic British farce set in the 1970s, is a hilarious fast-moving adventure in an exclusive London fur salon,” she said. “Chaos reigns throughout, with mistaken identities, mistresses and minks, a parrot, an ocelot coat, and the Royal Navy, but somehow

First squadron coming to Ranges

AnewyouthclubiscomingtotheMacedon Ranges.

Australia’s oldest uniformed cadet organisation, The Australian Air League, is establishing a new Squadron for the Macedon Ranges in Woodend.

The air league is a uniformed, disciplined, fun organisation open to girls and boys aged eight to 18 and adults as officerswithaimstopromoteaninterestin aviation among the youth of Australia, and to enable them to become better citizens, servethecommunityandachievetheirfull potential.

Woodend local Neil Fitzgerald, who is currently being assessed for the officer commanding position for the squadron, said he saw a gap in the area for young people who are interested in aviation.

He also said Woodend’s close proximity to Kyneton Aerodrome and Melbourne Airport make it a perfect location for the cadets.

“We wear a uniform to instil pride, discipline and a sense of camaraderie while encouraging cadets to become their very best. We have a proven record of growingconfidenceandself-respectinour members who then become valuable and contributing members of our community,” Mr Fitzgerald said.

“Cadets can study courses ranging from navigation, space flight and meteorology through to cabin crew and even earn a diploma.

“I believe with the great schools in our area we’ll be able to attract cadets - and parents to provide this unique service.”

The squadron plans to host regular paradenights,whichwillincludemarching drills, education and games.

Mr Fitzgerald is also seeking interested adults to join as officers so the squadron can operate successfully.

He also said parents of cadets are encouraged to become involved in the

King’s birthday council

Some Hume council services will be impacted or closed on King’s Birthday public holiday, Monday 8 June. Waste collection will continue as normal, with tips open from 8am-4pm. Hume’s customer service centres will be closed, as will Hume libraries and the Hume Global Learning Centres, community centres and youth centres. Early years services including maternal and child health, kindergarten and long day care will also be closed. Issues can still be reported online or via the Snap Send Solve app. Hume’s after-hours service can also be contacted on 9205 2200 if there is an emergency. Hume leisure centres will be open with reduced hours from 8am-5pm.

Petition tabled

everything seems to work out as it should, as it all hurtles towards the final curtain.”

Starring a cast of Macedon Ranges performers including Di Addington, Alan Barrett, Maggie Browne, Nicole Katiforis, Frank Sartore, Ross Tempest, and Jodie Witten, the performance is one not to be missed.

Not Now, Darling will be staged for five shows only at the Kyneton Masonic Centre from 20 June until 28 June.

Tickets for all sessions will cost between $20and$25,andincludepreshowsherries, programs and interval refreshments including wine and cheeses at the 8pm show, and high tea with bubbles available at the four matinees at 2pm.

A petition for the installation of a safe pedestrian crossing on Romsey Road in Woodend was tabled at the Macedon Ranges council meeting on 27 May. The petition from resident Kathryn Tollerud had 174 signatories and calls for the crossing to be on Romsey Road where it meets High Street and the Avenue of Honour. A report will be prepared by council chief executive Bernie O’Sullivan for the July council meeting.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Tickets: www.trybooking.com/DLIAG

formation of a committee to support fund raising projects and support the officers in the running of the squadron.

An information night for interested youngpeopleandtheirfamilieswillbeheld at the Norma Richardson Hall in Woodend on Tuesday 30 June, from 6.30pm.

The first parade night for the squadron will be on Tuesday 7 July from 6.45pm at the hall.

Details: oc.woodend@airleague.com.au orairleague.com.au

Infrastructure falling short

By Linda Allison, CEO, UDIA Victoria

When the Victorian Government announced free public transport for April and May, and half-price fares for the remainder of the year, it was warmly received by those living in well-connected suburbs.

However, for the millions of Victorians living in outer suburbs and regionally, it hasexposedadeeperinequalityfacingthe state’sfastestgrowingcommunities.

ResidentsofMelbourne’sfastest-growing suburbs in the north and west have seen underinvestment in transport infrastructureinfavourofprojectsserving inner Melbourne. And with 120,000 new Victorians entering the state each year, our suburbs are growing faster than the infrastructureneeded.

The free public transport initiative is great for a resident of Box Hill, Bentleigh, or Camberwell. However, it offers little comforttosomeoneinMeltonorWyndham, who is forced to drive kilometres to reach thenearesttrainstation.Findingacarpark isnearimpossible.Wheretrainservicesdo run,they’reovercrowded,withcommuters forcedtostand,packedintightly.

Public transport is sparse, services are intermittent, and driving is often the only option. It’s the direct consequence of decadesofunder-investmentintheseareas thatareamongVictoria’sfastestgrowing.

Growth areas are central to meeting the state’s housing targets, and the housing

type of choice of many Victorians yet the infrastructure to support them lags. In Melbourne’s outer suburbs, 40 per cent of residents use a private car for all trips –nearly double the state average of 24 per cent.Why?Becausethereisnoalternative.

Growth corridors are receiving a disproportionately small share of infrastructure funding relative to their population, while established suburbs continuetobenefitfromrecordinvestment.

Local families are waiting years for the roads, rail, schools and services they assumedwouldbetherewhentheybought their homes. These are the responsibility

oftheStateGovernment,notthedeveloper who already contribute above and beyond their share by way of taxes, levies, fees, chargesandworks-in-kind.

Without upfront investment in rapidly growing areas, housing supply will continue to stall, and the gap between growth areas and the rest of Melbourne willcontinuetowiden.

Thefuelcrisisdidn’tcreatethisproblem, butit’snowmadeitimpossibletoignore.

With six months until the state election, this must be a defining moment for the nextgovernmenttoaddress.

UDIA Victoria, as a representative

for the state’s development industry, is calling for the next Victorian Government to prioritise infrastructure policy that ensures investment is aligned to areas experiencing rapid population growth, with an approach that offers long-term clarity to development, transport, and infrastructure providers, and more coordinationwithlocalcouncils.

To deliver this, our state needs a transparent 10-year infrastructure delivery pipeline aligned with population forecasts, action to close servicing gaps in regional centres, and integrated transport and land-use planning so communities aren’t built in isolation from the services they need. At a time where budgets are tight, and growing government debt levels are closely watched, it is imperative that we make the most of every infrastructure dollarspent.

Communities built at scale without matching infrastructure mean longer commutes, insufficient services, and declining social cohesion. We can’t expect our outer and regional residents to carry the state’s growth without the support it needs. The government’s current policy of promoting new housing in established areasdoesn’tmatchconsumerpreferences or the feasibility of apartment projects at present.

The next Victorian Government must ensure infrastructure follows the people –becauserightnow,fortoomanyVictorians, itfallswellshort.

Submission deadline slammed

By Georgia Tacey

MacedonRangescouncillorshaveslammed the state government’s four-week engagement period on the proposed Clarkefield development and have urgently requested more time to consider their submission.

During the 27 May council meeting, urgent business was moved by Cr Jennifer Anderson, after council said it was informally refused a time extension on the engagement for the Clarkefield development by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Engagement opened on 4 May on the

Draft Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme Amendment – C164macr, which is for a proposed development of 2300 homes in Clarkefield, turning the hamlet into a township.

The project’s decision maker is the state government, bypassing council.

The project has 19 proposed amendments to the planning scheme, with submissions due by 1 June.

“For four weeks for us as council to get everything together, to talk to various stakeholders, to get feedback from our community, it’s an unrealistic timeframe for us,” Cr Anderson said.

She said council’s proposal is additional work for officers to complete, outside of their paid duties.

“We weren’t even told about this before everybody else was told about it, we didn’t even get a warning or a heads up that this was coming. Just here it is, you’ve got the same timeframe as everybody else,” Cr Anderson said.

Cr Daniel Young said Clarkefield was not suited for this level of development.

“It’s not that we don’t want development, we want development, good fitting development. But you cannot turn us into Melbourne,” he said.

Artists and makers display their creations

A new initiative at the Riddells Creek Neighbourhood House is helping support local artists.

ThehouserecentlyopenedanewMakers Cabinet, which features creations by local artistsandmakersfromacrosstheMacedon Ranges.

Community engagement manager Mary Giordano said the cabinet came from a wider idea to highlight local creatives.

“It came about as part of a broader initiative that we were trying to put into place, a Makers Fair,” she said.

“Among our social groups, we have sev-

eral crafting, creative social groups, and we have incredibly talented artists in our community – painters, yarners, spinners, drawers, jewellery makers – all these incredible people who have these beautiful talents.”

Ms Giordano said she wanted to bring more visibility to the hard work the locals do.

“We wanted to organise a fair, where we could have different crafts and artworks set up in the different rooms of the house and perhaps have demonstrations … we applied for funding to try to do that but we were unsuccessful for the full grant,” she said.

The money received went towards the purchase of the Makers Cabinet, which is currently stocked full of locally made creations with coasters, plates, pottery as well as a handcrafted Egyptian-themed ceramic chess set, with all creations for sale.

Ms Giordano said the cabinet is the first step towards the fair, and it is something the house plans to keep pursuing.

The community can come see the creations on display during the Riddells Creek Neighbourhood House’s opening hours, 9.30am-3pm Monday to Thursday.

Details: riddellscreeknh.com.au

Cr Alison Joseph said the train station in Clarkefield could not deal with the capacity of this amount of residents.

“Ithinkanyonewhocatchesthetrainon the Bendigo line should be concerned that they’ll never get a seat again if this goes ahead, there isn’t the ability to increase the capacity,” she said.

Council will still submit an officer-level responsetotheproposalbeforesubmission closure on 1 June, with council’s formal position on the proposed development to be brought to the 22 July council meeting.

The state government was contacted for comment.

Be fire safe at home this winter

As temperatures drop, Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) and CFA are reminding Victorians to keep flammable items away from heaters and fireplaces.

Combined data from FRV and CFA reveals firefighters responded to more than 175 incidents attributed to failing or malfunctioning heating systems across Victoria in 2024-25.

Fire services are also reminding residents that items placed too close to heaters can quickly ignite or create dangerous smoke inside the home.

Home heating systems can include fixed electrical or gas-powered appliances, portable electrical, gas or kerosene heaters, as well as open fires and wood heaters.

FRV deputy commissioner community safety and operational training Joshua Fischer said the winter months were the peak time for heater fires.

“While we are not yet in winter, many of us are feeling the recent drop in temperatures and are already looking to keep our homes warm. However, residents should know that we are also about to enter the peak period for fires started by heaters,” he said.

“We want Victorians to be aware that making a check on the condition of their heaters and heating systems before they use them could make a potentially life-saving difference to them and their family.”

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

Sunbury Ladies’ Badminton Club

The club plays social and competition games every Thursday morning 9.30am-noon, excluding public and school holidays at the Eric Boarman Stadium, Wilsons Lane, Sunbury. All skill levels welcomed.

sunburylbc@gmail.com

Sunbury Art Society

Join the SAS group for all things arty. The group meets on Fridays and Saturdays at its new location at Artise in Jacksons Hill from 10am-3pm. New members and beginners welcome.

sunburyartsociety.com

Woodlands Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury

Woodlands Ladies Probus Club is for retired and semi-retired ladies who are looking for new friends and social activities. The club meets on the fourth Monday every month at Club Sunbury, with guest speakers and lunch after.

Jessie, 0458 190 254, or woodlandsladies.3429@gmail.com

Chamber Poets

The Chamber Poets Woodend meet every second Saturday of the month at the Woodend RSL. Featuring open readings, special guests and music. Donation $10 at the door.

facebook.com/groups/ChamberPoets/ about

Scottish Country Dancing Group

The Macedon Ranges Scottish Country Dancing Group meet every Thursday, 1-3pm, at Buffalo Stadium, Woodend. The dancing involves social country dancing, not the highland dancing many people think of. The group dance in sets, learning different steps and formations – no special clothes needed, just soft flat shoes. The group are a friendly group having fun and keeping fit at the same time. No partners needed, just a smile and sense of fun.

Lynne, 0417 331 439, or Norm, 0408 592 609

CWA Sunbury

CWA Sunbury meets second and fourth Mondays at St Mary’s Church, 7-19 O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury. All women are welcome, and grandchildren welcome to. Bev Goodman, 0402 988 954

With One Voice Sunbury

The With One Voice Sunbury community choir is changing the world one voice at a time by providing an opportunity for people to meet and experience the joy of singing, often making friends through the shared experiences of singing and performing; although performing is not required. The choir rehearses each Tuesday from 6.30pm at Goonawarra Neighbourhood House, 8 Gullane Drive, Sunbury. A fun and welcoming choir, new members are welcome. sunbury@withonevoice.org.au

Neighbourhood garden

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

Malmsbury Farmers and Makers Market

Locals and people from afar get along to this wonderful Farmers Market. Always the third Sunday of the month. Fresh produce, wine, hot food, coffee, plants, artisan foods and crafts that are special. Musical entertainment while you shop and catch up with friends. Located at the picturesque

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Yarraville actor Scott Middleton, who is playing Groucho Marx in Between The Lines – The James Joyce/ Groucho Marx Letters. (Damjan Janevski) 555176_01

Malmsbury Cricket Ground, Ellesmere Place, Malmsbury from 9am-1pm. Amy, 0423 726 695

Messy Play in Sunbury

Join in the Messy Play fun with this toddler-focussed program, including messy and sensory child-led play. The program will run from 10–11.30am on Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays at the Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. sunburyhouse.com.au, or 9740 6978

Young Voices of Macedon

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

Hume Men’s Shed

The Hume Men’s Shed (Sunbury) is a not-for-profit organisation, meeting every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at 158 Evans Street, Sunbury. The group caters for men be it carpentry, welding, metal work, gardening or just to chat.

sunburymensshed.com, or 0438 677 425

Macedon Ranges Photographic Society

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

Art group

The Woodend Art Group holds classes and workshops in the studios in the Woodend railway station complex. It also has a social Tuesday where members and interested people can come along in the morning, have a coffee and paint together in a social environment.

Colin Robinson, 0407 426 252

Shuttles and pickleballs

Macedon Ranges Badminton Club is inviting residents to come and play badminton, or pickleball, or both at Macedon Community Centre. Badminton is played on Tuesdays from 7.30pm and Thursdays at 9.30am. Pickleball is played on Mondays at 6.30pm, Wednesdays at 10.15am and on Tuesday from 10am at the Romsey Recreation

Centre. David, 0419 589 425, or macedonrangesbadminton@gmail.com

Amateur radio club

The Macedon Ranges Amateur Radio Club meets on the third Saturday of the month at the Woodend RSL Hall, 32 Anslow Street, Woodend, at 10am. mrarc.org.au

Sunbury Over 55s Social Table Tennis

Every Wednesday from 1-3pm, in the Sunbury Recreation Stadium, Sunbury Recreation Reserve (Clarke Oval). No experience or booking necessary. Come, have a look and give it a try. Bruce, 0438 027 978

North West District Pipe Band

North Western District Pipe Band meets every Wednesday at 7.30pm at the Diggers Rest Bowling Club. They’re looking for any pipers or drummers out there, retired or beginners, for social play outs. Hank, 0412 160 576

Insync Entertainment

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

Embrace the arts in winter

Woodend will come alive as the annual WinterArtsfestivalmakesitsreturn.

Over four days, Australia’s longest running winter arts festival will return to the region with a jam packed program of music, performance, words and ideas, which artistic director of the festival Dr JacquelineOgeilsaidissellingoutfast.

“We’ve got some really big names coming,”shesaid.

“In the words and ideas program, we’ve got David Marr coming from Sydney who runsLateNightLive,we’vegottheamazing socialpsychologistHughMackay,andwe’ve got Anna Goldsworthy who’s publishing

an article with Quarterly Essay on AI and creativity.”

Otherhighlightsacrossthelongweekend include Alan Finkel who will be hosting a talk on AI, Rosalie Ham who will talk about her latest book, Look After Your Feet and piano masterclass with Tamara-Anna CislowskaandElenaKats-Chernin.

Students from the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School will perform, with the student ensemble taking over St AmbroseHallforashow.

Dr Ogeil will also perform at the festival, and said there’s something for everyone overthefourdays.

“Things are selling out really quickly, our ticketsarethebestinourhistorysofar,”she said.

“We hope that continues because David Marrhassoldout,HughMacKayisaboutto selloutandsoisAlanFinkel.

“People shouldn’t leave it to the weekend to make a decision, they really need to get in now because they are intimate performancesandshows.”

Woodend Winter Arts will take place at venues across Woodend on the King’s Birthday long weekend, 5-8 June, with tickets for plenty of shows still available. Details:woodendwinterartsfestival.org.au

Winter solstice by the sea

You can do magic!

Celebrate the longest night shortest day of the year at Seaworks when the Winter Solstice Festival is held at the historic maritime precinct in Williamstown on Friday23May.

Marking the start of the winter season, the winter solstice has its roots in ancient traditions and has been celebrated by different cultures around the world for thousands of years. It is often associated with the rebirth of the sun and the return oflightafterthedarknessofwinter.

However, the rebirth of the sun and return of the light will feel a long way away

by the end of June when the festival takes place, with the longest night of the year likely to have already begun by the 5pm starttime.

The early darkness and frigid temperatures won’t prevent an exciting and entertaining evening though, with giant puppets, circus acts, face painting, ghost tours, theatre, dance and live music allonoffer.

The line-up includes the Willin Wimmin Singing Choir from 6.30-6.50pm and again from 8.30-8.50pm, The Highland Dance Group from 7-7.10pm and 7.50-8pm and

theSwayPolePerformersfrom7.10-7.20pm and8pm-8.10pm.

Jamaican Reggae from DJ Stick Marboo and Zare Demus will then close out the festivalfrom9-10pm.

Art exhibitions, market stalls and the Seaworks Maritime Museum will be open throughout the night, as will a variety of foodandwinevendors.

Entry is free and the event is open to all ages.

The Winter Solstice Festival is supported by Hobsons Bay council and the state government.

Little River is bracing for fun when Dazzling Dan The Magic Man comes totown.

The magician and all of his exciting moves will dazzle the Little River MechanicsHallonMonday29June.

Dan Bingham has been plying his trade for more than 35 years and assures everyone that his show is not justabouttrickingfolk.

“WhenIwassixyearsoldIwasabit of a class clown and prankster so my mum thought magic would be a little less annoying,” he said. “Then I met a magician in high school who said I shoulddoitforpocketmoney.”

Youcanexpectthingstoappearand disappear, but you’ll be more than a spectatorifyoufeelthemagic.

“I love getting people up on stage and performing, as it keeps it really engaging rather than just having themsitthereandwatch.

“People love magic for different reasons, getting them involved is a way to bridge them from observer to fan.”

“For me magic is combining science, maths and the intellectual thingswithcreativity.”

Consideringitwillbeschoolholiday time, this is particularly dazzling eventforfamiliestoenjoy.

“Itisanicewaytoswitchgearsfrom the school routine to family holiday,” MrBinghamsaid.

Tickets: https://www.trybooking. com/events/landing/1562424

Hit the dance floor for a boogie at the Blackwood Disco Inferno

Blackwood is gearing up to turn the heat on this winter, with the return of the much-lovedBlackwoodDiscoInfernonext month.

Thesecondannualeventwilllightupthe BlackwoodTownHallonSaturday13June, promising a night packed with glitter, dancing,andcommunityspirit.

Created by five friends with a shared passion for music, dancing, and “excessive sparkle”, the disco quickly became a standout event on the local calendar after its debut last year drew a colourful and diverse crowd from across the municipality.

“Our favourite thing about last year’s disco was the diverse crowd that it drew: kids, teens, adults, recent arrivals to the town, residents of 30 plus years, people from nearby towns, and friends from furtherafield,”shesaid.

“Everyonewasthereforagoodtime!”

And this year’s celebration is set to be even bigger, with attendees encouraged to dust off their sequins, bring their dancing shoes,andpreparetoboogieintothenight.

The event will once again showcase local talent and businesses, with DJs from the area providing the soundtrack for the

Organiser Anna Perry said last year’s event proved disco fever knows no age limit.

evening and Trentham food truck Jinky’s servingupdance-floorfuel.

Guests can also look forward to disco tarotreadings,dancedemonstrationsfrom the Lauriston Body Bop crew and drinks fromSpringHill’sMerthWinery.

To top it all off, the dance moves don’t go without a good cause, with funds raised going back into the community through helping to support a playground project at theBlackwoodCricketOval.

So,grabyourcrew,bookyourticketsand dust off those disco outfits as Blackwood’s annualDiscoInfernoreturns.

Details: https://events.humanitix.com/ blackwood-disco-inferno-ezyucunv

PO Box 151

KYNETON Vic 3444

Tel: (03) 5422 0333

Fax: (03) 5422 3623

Email: mrsc@mrsc.vic.gov.au Web: www.mrsc.vic.gov.au

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT

Planning And Environment Act 1987 Section 52(1)

An application for a planning permit has been made which may affect you.

The land affected by the application is located at: LOT 11 PS 609164A P/Gisborne 10-12 Echidna Lane GISBORNE VIC 3437

The application is for a permit to: Variation of restrictive covenant PS609164A for development of an outbuilding outside the designated building envelope for lot 11 A permit is required under the following clauses of the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme:

The applicant for the permit is: Matthew McKenzie The application reference number is: PLN/2026/123 Officer

If

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority. An objection must:

•Be made to the responsible authority in writing or lodged online

•Include your name and mailing address

•Additionally for objections include:

•Reason/s for the objection

•State how you would be affected by the granting of a permit

•Any suggestions on how to address concerns (as applicable)

The responsible authority must make a copy of every objection available for any person to inspect free of charge until the end of the period during which an application maybe made for review of a decision on the application.

More information about the objection process, including our privacy collection notice and our prescribed objection/ submission form is located on Council’s website at https://www.mrsc.vic.gov.au/Build-Plan/Planning-PermitsApprovals-Forms/Object-to-an-application.

The responsible authority will not decide on the application before at least 14 days after the date the last notice under section 52(1) or (1AA) of the Act is to be given. If you make an objection, the Responsible Authority will inform you of its decision.

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Azzi Fudd, the first overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, plays for which team?

2. The Big Freeze fundraiser is associated with which sporting league?

3. And which teams face off in the annual Big Freeze match?

4. The late US racing driver Kyle Busch competed in what form of car racing?

5. Which team did Auckland FC defeat to win the 2026 A-League Men Grand

11. The first Enhanced Games multi-sport event took place in which US state?

12. Which two teams competed in the 2026 NBA Western Conference finals?

Which two teams competed in the 2026 NBA Eastern Conference

Tom Huber recently became the first Australian signed to play what Division 1 college football position?

8. Which country is set to host the opening match of the 2026–27 Big Bash League?

After 12 NBA seasons, which Australian former NBL player has signed with Melbourne United?

13. What nationality is tennis star Talia Gibson?

14. Which Formula 1 driver has reportedly been banned by Mercedes from competing at the Nürburgring in the near future?

15. In baseball, what term is used to describe a straight hit with little to no arc, usually not far above the ground?

16. Which NBA Hall of Famer is known by the nickname ‘The Big Ticket’?

17. Which AFL team recently broke the record for the highest-scoring third-quarter in VFL/AFL history?

20. Which two expansion teams are set to join the NRL in 2027 and 2028?

21. In which year was the first Dreamtime at the ‘G AFL game held?

22. And how many times has it been played somewhere other than the MCG?

23. Which brand provides the official game balls for the NBA?

26. The Australian women’s basketball and netball teams are referred to as which gems, respectively?

27. Which other league is the concept of the NRL’s ‘Magic Round’ derived from?

28. What is the nickname of San Jose’s MLS team?

29. How many points is the blue snooker ball worth?

Adelaide-born Curtis Mead plays for which Major League Baseball

18. And how many thirdquarter goals did they score?

19. The Tempo are a WNBA team based in which city?

24. What is the name of the racing championship in the movie Cars?

25. In cricket, what is the position of short leg also known as?

30. In which year was women’s ice hockey first featured at the Winter Olympics?

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the

ACROSS

1 Plant of the genus that includes cabbage (8)

5 Prizes (6)

10 Riverside embankment (5)

11 Central American country (9)

12 Tallies (6)

13 I don’t know (coll) (5,2)

14 Inverted (8)

15 Alliance (6)

18 Round, red root; salad vegetable (6)

20 Masters (8)

21 16th US president (7)

24 Common fruits (6)

27 Garrulous (9)

28 Popular aquarium fish (5)

29 Peril (6)

30 Resent someone’s pleasure or good fortune (8) DOWN

1 Light globe (4)

2 Publicly supported (9)

3 Slur (5)

4 Box (8)

6 Hub for military planes (7)

7 Recommends (5)

8 Brazen (9)

9 Crust formed over a cut (4)

14 Not connected by kinship (9)

16 Clothed (9)

17 From Osaka, e.g. (8)

19 Repository (7)

22 A tough synthetic polymer (5)

23 Fastener (4)

25 Father (Lat) (5)

26 Counterfeit (4)

Today’s Aim:

12 words: Good 18 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”. E I I G T W N N R

3

1 New Zealand singer Ella Yelich-O'Connor is better known by what name?

2 In Roman mythology, who is the goddess of peace?

3 True or false: the US states Kansas and Arkansas share a border?

4 What kind of animal is the satyr tragopan?

5 Is euchre a type of oil paint, card game or woodworking tool?

6 How many points does a pentagram have?

7 What do we call the exercise also known as a ‘jumping jack’?

8 In which year did ABBA win the Eurovision Song Contest: 1969, 1974 or 1980?

9 Ending its run in 2011, The OprahWinfrey (pictured) Show started in what year?

10 What is the capital city of Kenya?

Top of the range, and pricey

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

You can understand why Japanese and Korean car makers continue to rollout petrol-onlymodels.

Notallbuyerswant,orcanafford,thecost of an electric vehicle, although that is the waythemarketisultimatelyheading.

With a barrage of competition from cheaper Chinese rivals, anything they can do to pick up a few extra sales is fast becomingessential.

And so, we have the top of the range Outlander Exceed Tourer, powered by a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, withallthebellsandwhistlestomatch.

In fairness, Mitsubishi also offers hybrids or more specifically plug-in hybrids, for the Outlander and Eclipse Cross, but naturally theycostmore–quiteabitmoreinfact.

Styling

Before proceeding, it should be pointed out that Outlander shares its underpinnings with the Nissan X-Trail, so you might want toshopbothvehicles.

Prices for Outlander start from $39,990 for the five-seat, front-wheel drive petrol Outlander ES. It’s followed by LS, Aspire, Exceed and Exceed Tourer, the last topping out at $57,990 plus on-road costs, with two or all-wheel drive and five or seven seats an optionwithsomegrades.

If you’re feeling a little guilty about pumping unnecessary hydrocarbons into the atmosphere, the Exceed Tourer in plug-inhybridformtakesthepricetoalofty $74,490plusonroads.

At a savings of $17,000, our test vehicle wasthepetrol-powered,five-seat,all-wheel driveExceedTourer.

Launched in May 2025, the latest Outlander features local steering and suspension tuning, reportedly adopted for markets around the world because it’s so good.

Minorstylingchangeshavebeenmadeto freshen up the car, with updated bumpers and lower garnish, designed to create a modernlookwithimprovedaerodynamics.

The lights have also been upgraded with the rear combination units featuring a ‘smoked’ clear outer lens and a ‘black tone’ inner.

Rear turn indicators and reversing lights arenowLED.

The profile benefits from updated wheel designs, with 18s for the ES and LS, and a more complex 20-inch design for Aspire, ExceedandExceedTourer.

Exceed adds such goodies as cooled and heated front seats, aluminium pedals, frame-less rear-view mirror (with digital monitor), memory and auto tilt in reverse for exterior mirrors, along with front door puddlelightsandarearcargofloorboxwith lid.

The icing on the cake for Tourer includes two-tone exterior paintwork, full-size alloy spare, quilted brown semi-aniline leather trim, massage front seats, heated second-row seats and the Dynamic Sound Yamaha Ultimate audio system with 12 speakers.

Outlander is covered by a five-year/100,000km warranty or 10 years/200,000km provided you get it serviced by Mitsubishi – plus 10-year cappedpriceservicing,plusuptofouryears ofcomplimentaryroadsideassistance.

Infotainment

The new 12.3-inch infotainment system featureshigherresolutionandanenhanced response rate, with another 12.3-inch screen for the instrument cluster, plus two selectablethemes.

There’s Bluetooth with voice control,

AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, built-in navigation, wireless CarPlay and Android AutoandinthecaseoftheTourer–Yamaha premiumaudio.

Thisincludes12speakersandisdesigned to deliver a rich, cinematic experience, with a subwoofer, dual amps and Yamaha’s Digital Signal Processor (DSP) with Finite Impulse Response, delivering 1650 watts of powerforanimmersivesoundexperience.

There’s also wireless charging and five USB-C ports (two front, two back and one consolebox),with12-voltoutletsinthefront andluggagearea.

Outlander is the first model to get MitsubishiConnect.

AvailableinLSgradeandabove,itfeatures SOS calls, automatic collision notification, breakdown assistance, anti-theft notification, curfew alert, geo-fence alert, speedalertandtow-awaynotification.

Safety

Five-star safety includes refinements to the haptic brake warning, blind spot interventionandlanedepartureprevention systems.

Autonomous emergency braking (Car to Car, Vulnerable Road User, Junction and Backover) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping(ELK)arestandard.

There’s also driver monitoring, camera-linked rear automatic braking, 360-degreemonitor,trafficsignrecognition with active cruise control and speed limit link.

Acentreairbagprovidesaddedprotection to front seat occupants in side impact crashes,butthethirdrowmissesoutonside airbagprotection.

Engines/transmissions

Apart from the PHEV, all grades get the same proven 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinderpetrolengine.

Paired with a CVT style transmission, it generates 135kW of power at 6000 rpm and 244Nmfrom3600rpm.

Driving

The new model is 4720mm long, 1862mm

wide and 1745mm high, with a 2706mm wheelbase and 11.2 metre turningcircle.

The interior has been redesigned, with higher quality materials throughout, and stitched and quiltedpart-leathertrim.

An updated centre console sees the cup holders relocated, while centrestoragehasgrown45percent.

With a 55-litre tank it takes standard 91 unleaded with fuel consumption a claimed 8.1L/100kmforthismodel.

Getting into the Outlander for the first time we were impressed by the fit and finish, generous space and comfortable seats, along with the way the chunky steeringwheelsatsnuglyinourhands.

The cabin is a nice, relaxing place to wile awaythehours.

The non-turbo, non-hybrid 2.5-litre engine feels more than adequate around town, with gear change paddles and eight stepsorsimulatedgearstoplaywith.

At the same time, it could do with some more grunt, especially when it comes to mergingorovertakingoutontheopenroad.

This is where the gear change paddles come into play, allowing you to quickly dropbackasteportwo.

But,withafullcomplementofpassengers and their gear for a trip away, it could struggle.

GivenMitsubishi’sboastaboutAustralian input into the ride and handling, we were expectingbigthings.

The experience on our favourite rural drive route, which features plenty of rise and fall and sneaky potholes to dodge, wasn’t bad – but it’s not what we’d call life-changing.

RATINGS

Looks: 8

Performance: 7

Safety: 7.5

Thirst: 7

Practicality: 7.5

Comfort: 7.5

Tech: 7.5

Value: 7.5

Overall: 7.4

In the second row, new padding improves support and the seat back itself hasbeenlengthenedforadditionalcomfort.

For the first time cooled front seats are offered up front for Exceed and Exceed Tourer. They’re also heated – not just the front seats but the outer, second-row positionsinTourer.

Allinteriorlightingisnowtouch-sensitive LED.

Australian and overseas research and development staff worked closely to refine the updated Outlander’s ride and handling balance.

Working on roads throughout Australia and Japan, the group developed new suspension components and a steering maptoensureOutlanderdrivesbetterthan before.

Updates include re-calibrated front and rear shock absorbers with changes to both bump and rebound tuning, and a smaller-diameterfrontanti-rollbar.

The electric power steering has been re-mapped to provide improved on-centre feel and a more linear response when turning.

Finally,thewholepackagewascalibrated to work in conjunction with a new Bridgestonesummertyre.

The updated model also benefits from several chassis and body updates designed toreducenoise,vibrationandharshness.

For example, a new isolator was added to the transmission tunnel, while the use of steel for the bonnet further reduces sound intrusion.

Inall,18structuralpointswereidentified and addressed to enhance the passenger experience.

High-end Exceed and Exceed Tourer feature Super All-Wheel Control all-wheel drive.

Furthermore, 20-inch wheels with low profile 255/45 series rubber reduce roll in corners but they are just not that absorbent when it comes to bumps.

The wagon crashes through potholesandevenbecomesatad bouncyatspeed,butfortunately doesn’tgetoutofshape.

Acentrerotaryterraincontrol offers a variety of scenarios to selectfrom.

Dynamic we assume is Mitsu-speak for Sport and locks inall-wheeldrive.

Foranyoneseriouslyconsideringheading off road in the Outlander, it’s an SUV not a 4WD, and ground clearance is a moderate 210mm.

But it will happily take you down a rough dirtroadwithouttoomanydramas. Keep away from sand – it’s hard on transmissions.

If the Japanese helped with ride and handling, the Chinese seem to have infiltrated the driver assistance systems, with a constant and unexpected barrage of irritatingwarnings.

Braked towing capacity by the way is 1600kg and it comes with a full-size alloy spare(tick).

Rated at 8.1L/100km. we were getting 8.6L after close to 400km of driving. The long-term average, for more than 5000km, was9.0L/100km.

These figures are not outrageous, but by the same token are not really up to expectationsinthisdayandage.

Summing up

Outlander Exceed Tourer is a classy, accomplishedmotorcar.

It will appeal to a wide cross-section of buyers, but the main problem is cheaper, arguablybetter,competitors.

For the price of this car, you can get into a full-blown, plug-in hybrid Chinese SUV, thatinatleastonecasehasalsobeentuned forlocalroads.

They offer stronger performance, better fuel economy and an equally impressive equipment list and buyers are starting to takenotice.

The Yamaha sound system is a keeper though and adds a welcome point of difference.

Football season heats up

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

Warriors falls short, again

By Tara Murray

The close games continued for the Western Warriors as they fell short against the Casey Demons in the Victorian Netball League.

After winning a one goal thriller on Sunday against the Geelong Cougars, the Warriors were back in action against the Demons on Wednesday night.

The Warriors had their chances to make it two in a row, but the Demons had another level late to come away with a 6457 win.

Warriors’ coach Kim Bailey said it was a winnable match.

“It’s the story isn’t it,” she said. “We were up by four in the third.

“No excuses but Ruby [Shannon] was

a little bit tired today and Kim [Borger] hasn’t been flash either.

“We didn’t have Mia [Lavis]. We just can’t seem to get a full team on the court, which is a little bit frustrating.”

Bailey said while disappointed to have the loss, she was really happy with the side’s endeavour, but it was a matter of finishing off games.

Nine of the Warriors 11 games have been decided by six or less goals.

“We have to make sure that when we’re in front, that we continue to do the basics and do them really well and get turnover ball,” she said.

“Our heads dropped a little bit when they got a bit of a run on, but we came back but it was a bit too late.”

Bailey said while they tried hard they couldn’t stop Emma Ryde in the shooting circle for the Demons.

Ellie Bird shot 54 goals for the Warriors in her second game for the side.

Bailey said for most of the players it was only the second time they had met Bird and those connections were going to just get better and better.

“She was outstanding,” Bailey said.

“That connection is just going to get better, it’s whether it’s too late or not.”

Bailey said she thought Kali Dolphin played her best game for the club in the loss.

“She fed really well and used a lot of change of direction and change of pass and freed her up a little bit,” Bailey said.

Lions are battling on amid player injuries

By Tara Murray

The Sunbury Lions are yet to fire in the Ballarat Netball League, but continue to put the wins on the board.

The Lions are nowhere near the side they’ve been the past two years, when they made the grand final, early this season.

Injuries and unavailabilities have played havoc for the Lions, who are hoping the worst is now behind them.

But with plenty of talent and the core group returning, the Lions are still sitting in the top six.

On Saturday, the Lions were able to come away with the points against Lake Wendouree, winning 57-53.

The margin had been as big as nine goals but turned into a real slug feast later in the game.

Caitlin Hill and Lani Fauonuku shot 21 goals each for the Lions in the win, while Abby Inglis made a strong return from injury in the midcourt.

The win moves the Lions to third on the ladder with five wins, a draw and a loss, which came to Darley back in round one. The draw came with North Ballarat, which sits second on the ladder.

Speaking before the game with the Lakers, Bailey said they still had a lot of work to do.

She said they thought the game against the Lakers, who were sitting third, would be a good test for them.

“I’m not overly happy with how we’re playing,” she said.

“It’s coming together. We’re finally getting some players back on the court.

“It still feels like we’re a little disjointed at the moment.

“We’ve still got some work to do. We have a couple of hard games coming up.”

Bailey said they were still trying to figure out their best combinations across the court.

She said in attack they’ve been trying both Fauonuku and Charlize Bellette in the circle with Hill and both have had some success. Fauonuku has been limited to a half in some games due to other commitments.

Bailey said they started to need to put things together.

Ruby Shannon, who is part of the Melbourne Mavericks SN reserves side, is yet to play for the Lions this season and will be a big addition to the midcourt when she takes to the court.

“We need to play ourselves back into some form,” Bailey said. “Most probably where we’re positioned on the ladder, we deserve to be.

“Try and find those right combinations. We’ll keep working the angles and hopefully come right at the right time of the year.

“You don’t win finals in June”

Eliza Gollant. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 548784_11

It was

The Warriors’ challenges continue in the next round, as they face the City West Falcons.

Bailey said having already played them this season, they knew what to expect.

“It’s so close, you can still sneak into finals,” she said. “Our aim is just to win as many games as we can.

“We want to beat some teams that we’ve been close to beating them and haven’t.

“That is our aim to just try and finish off the second half of the season with some really good wins, not close wins, some comfortable wins.”

The Warriors 23 and under side bounced back with a 57-52 win.

The win has the Warriors in sixth on the ladder.

CVFL

The Centrals Victoria Football League has announced its initial interleague squad. A squad of 43 players has been nominated including the Wedge-Tailed Eagles, Teagan Ainslie, Jorja Bennett, Brooke Cowan, Demi Henderson, Kareena Jacobsen-Logan, Luce Lenius, Aisha Mansfield and Emma Williams. On Sunday, the Wedge-Tailed Eagles lost to Sandhurst, 13.11 (89)-0.2 (2). After nine rounds, the Wedgies sit fourth on the ladder with a 4-5 record.

RDFL

Macedon continued on its winning ways in the Riddell District Football League women’s competition on Saturday. Facing Lancefield, the Cats claimed an 8.4 (52)-3.1 (19) win with Ruby Watts named the Cats best. Harmony Cassar was named the Tigers best. In the other match, Mount Alexander beat Riddell, 4.3 (27)-1.4 (10). It was the Falcons first win of the season.

Bendigo FL

Gisborne had a day out in the Bendigo Football League on Saturday. Facing Broadford, the Bulldogs had a 35.18 (228)-1.1 (7) win. The Bulldogs kicked 12 goals in the first quarter and continued on throughout as they finished with 10 goals in the final term. Pat McKenna kicked 12 goals in a best on ground performance for the Bulldogs. After seven rounds, the Bulldogs sit second on the ladder but have played one less game than ladder leaders South Bendigo. In the A-grade netball, Gisborne had an 89-13 win against Broadford.

Big V

The Sunbury Jets split their matches in the Big V men’s championship division on the weekend. The Jets claimed the win on Saturday night against the Pakenham Warriors, 88-68 with Ish Sanders top scoring with 25 points. The Jets then lost to RMIT University on Sunday, 80-62 with Nathan Marshall top scoring with 14 points as Sanders was well held. The Jets enter the bye in third spot. The Jets women lost to the Warriors, 86-70 taking their losing streak to eight games.

Ballarat.

Cannons starting to click

By Tara Murray

The Calder Cannons got some reward for effort as they produced one of their biggest wins in Talent League girls history.

The Cannons picked up their third win of theseasonagainsttheBendigoPioneersina dominant display.

After leading by 14 points at quarter time and it was all the Cannons for the next three quarters.

The Pioneers were goalless after quarter time as the Cannons won, 15.12 (102)-1.3 (9).

Cannons’ coach Nic Tenabel said it was a really special win for the group.

“I don’t think Cannons have reached three figures before,” she said.

“It was a team first performance. They’ve come back from local footy and come back andputtheworkinpre-traininganditwasa

reward for effort for them.

“To top the records and play good football, I couldn’t be happier for them.”

Having put a new faster moving game plan, Tenabel said they were really starting to see that come to the fore.

She said early on in the season they were handballing too much, but had now taken that next step.

“The buy in has been there,” she said. “To see it come together with that team first mentality.

“Toseeitgofromdefensive50alltheway through to attack and be able to score from turnovers.

“The girls have not trained for it before… In a short period they are still learning but it has started to click.”

Chloe Bullen kicked four goals for the Cannons, while Taylor Kereopa and Jayda Scarafilo kicked three goals each.

Charli Calleia. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 471374_16

Coco Balmain, Radha Butters and Chloe Capeci were named the Cannons best.

Tenabel said despite the big win there were still plenty of things that they can work on.

She said the Pioneers defensive pressure made it hard to spread as much as they would have liked to.

“It’s always a learning opportunity for the

Burras hold on to win in the final seconds

By Tara Murray

Diggers Rest held on for victory against Kyneton as the Tigers were left to rue a missed opportunity in the dying seconds of their Riddell District Football League clash.

Kyneton had a chance to win the game, and upset the Burras twice in as many games, with a shot on goal with 10 seconds to go.

The kick went into the player on the mark, meaning the Burras held on to win, 12.8 (80)-11.10 (76).

Burras’ coach Shaun Campbell said they were relieved to get over the line.

“It always seems to be pretty close with them and it was probably always going to be a close one,” he said.

“It was close all day and it was goal for goal for much of the game. We were into the wind in the final quarter.

“It was a good quality game and we were just in front towards the end.”

Having lost to the Tigers in double over-

time in the final last year, Campbell said when the Tigers had that shot late on goal, he couldn’t stop thinking of that moment.

“I thought that it was happening again,” he said.

Marcus Calvaresi, Mitchell Day and Callum Moore kicked two goals each for the Burras.

Oleg Markov, Jaidyn Caruana and Jarryd Bonello were named the Burras best.

Campbell said having had some big wins early in the season, they would take a lot out of the win against Kyneton.

“To be in a close one is good, as there’s lots of things to work on in different parts of the game,” he said.

“It’ll be good in the long run. We could not have asked for a better start to the season.

“We’ve lost one game to quality opposition.We’vebeatensomegoodsidebyhealth margins.

“We’re in a good spot and it’s now about keeping everyone on the track.”

next game,” she said. “We’re training new things each week.

”We’ll work on that in the next three sessions before we hit the Knights.”

The Cannons have a bye this weekend coming.

Formanyitsthefirstbreakthey’vehadall season.

Meanwhile, two Cannons have made the Vic Metro squad.

Tenabel said after having seven players try out, two bottom age players have made the wider squad, with one in the squad and one as a train on player.

Meanwhile, the Cannons boys also beat the Pioneers, winning 13.11 (89)-8.8 (56).

Jackson Watkins, George Holderhead and Jamieson Fleming were named the Cannons best.

The win was the Cannons fourth for the season.

Bombers upset Gisborne Giants

Riddell pulled off its best win of the Riddell District Netball League season on Saturday.

The Bombers faced the Gisborne Giants, who were coming off upsetting Wallan the previous round.

Riddell jumped out of the blocks and led by 13 goals at quarter time. That first quarter would be the difference as the Bombers won, 58-43.

Shelby Holter shot 27 goals for the Bombers, while Tilly Allan shot 19 goals.

Malia Seumanutafashot 34 goals for the Giants in the loss.

The win moves the Bombers to fifth on the ladder.

Lancefield moved to the top of the table with victory against Melton South.

Shanae Brundell shot 80 goals for the Tigers in the win.

The top three teams, the Tigers, Wallan and Woodend-Hesket, all sit on 28 points while the Gisborne Giants a game behind them.

Macedon went close to inflicting a second straight defeat on Wallan. It was close all day, with scores level at 30-apiece at three quarter time.

The Magpies finished the stronger of the two sides, with an 11-9 final quarter enough to get the 41-39 win.

With Macedon losing to Wallan, Diggers Rest has moved up to second on the ladder.

For the Tigers, Isaac Barassi kicked three goals.

Daniel Davie and Harry Ryan were named their best

The Tigers sit fifth on the ladder.

Campbell said the King’s Birthday weekend bye came at a perfect time for his side withseveralplayerssettoreturninthecoming weeks.

It was a big week for Campbell, with the Burras announcing that he had re-signed as coach for next year.

Campbell said it was an easy decision.

“I’m still enjoying it and it’s a good group of boys,” he said.

“I’m still injury free and you have a long time out of the game afterwards.”

In other results, Melton Centrals snuck home against Romsey, Riddell beat the Gisborne Giants, Wallan beat Macedon and Melton South got the win against Lancefield.

Chloe Williams shot 15 goals for the Cats, while Hetty Donoghue shot 13 goals.

The Cats sit sixth on the ladder.

Kyneton’s good form has continued as it accounted for Diggers Rest, winning 71-48.

The Tigers led by 11 goals at quarter time and pushed the margin out throughout the rest of the match.

Ellie Bird shot 64 goals for the Tigers, while Leona Hristovska shot 41 goals for the Burras. In the other match, Melton Centrals beat Romsey, 68-52. The Blues were able to extend the margin in every quarter on the way to the win.

Imogen Sexton shot 49 goals for the Blues, while Savannah Forbes shot 33 goals for the Redbacks.

There’s a competition wide bye this weekend due to the King’s Birthday long weekend.

Thunder tick off fourth win

By Tara Murray

East Sunbury picked up a fourth win for the Essendon District Football League division 2 season, having doubled its win total from last season half way through the season.

The Thunder were on the road against Roxburgh Park on Saturday and it was a arm wrestle in the first half with just one point the difference at the main break.

The game opened up a bit more in the third quarter, with the Thunder kicking eight goals to four to lead by 20 points heading into the final quarter.

It was more contested in the final quarter with the Thunder kicking the only two goals of the final quarter to seal a 17.8 (110)-11.16 (82) win.

Todd Elton kicked seven goals in a best on ground performance for the Thunder.

Darcy Hargrave and Robbie Gray were also named in the best for the Thunder.

The win moves the Thunder to sixth on the ladder, now only percentage outside the top four.

The Sunbury Kangaroos slipped to seventh on the ladder as it lost to Hadfield.

Hadfield led at each of the breaks, but the Kangaroos stayed in touching distance throughout the match.

When the Kangaroos kicked the first goal of the final quarter in the opening minute, the margin was just three points.

The two sides traded goals with Hadfield winning, 13.12 (90)-12.12 (84).

Ryan Pretty kicked three goals for the Kangaroos and Mitch Kook kicked two goals.

Jakeb Coles and John Corso were named the Kangaroos best.

In division 1, Rupertswood suffered a scare against East Keilor.

The Sharks led by 18 points at quarter time, but the Cougars, who haven’t won a match in a couple of seasons, stuck close.

The margin was two points at half time and a goal heading into the final quarter.

A three goal to two final quarter saw the Sharks sneak home, 13.20 (98)-13.8 (86).

Clayton Bonello and Benjamin Cannon kicked two goals each for the Sharks, with Bailey Verrall and Logan Johnson

Josh Guthrie.

Lions put up ‘good fight’ for steadying win

By Tara Murray

The Sunbury Lions found a way to get the job done against Lake Wendouree in the Ballarat Football League on Saturday.

Facing the bottom side, the Lions had a contest on their hands at half time with just 10 points separating the two sides.

The Lions got going after half time and were able to come away with a 11.23 (89)6.7 (43) win.

Lions’ coach Matt White said it was a must win game for the side.

“It took a little while to break the back of them,” he said.

“It was a good fight in the first half and we could not get our game going.

“At half time we had a good chat. We put Cody Bramble down back to get that run and carry going.

“Our front end was working well, we just weren’t getting the ball into them.”

The move of Bramble into defence proved to be a match winning move for the Lions.

He was named best on ground in just his fourth game back from a serious knee injury which ruled him out of most of last year.

White said it was exciting to see Bramble perform this way.

“He put his best foot forward,” he said. “I didn’t think he would come on as quickly as he has.

“We’ve seen glimpses against Bacchus Marsh and the previous weeks, where he’s played some good footy.

“He made the jump on the weekend and he’s getting confidence in his body and he got us going.”

Daniel Johnston was the key for the Lions up forward as he kicked five goals.

White said it could have been a much bigger hail.

“He kicked 5.7,” he said. “He had close to 20 possessions and had 12 shots on goal.

“There were a couple of others he could have had shots on goal as well.”

The win was the Lions third of the season and moved then to a 3-4 record.

The weekend also saw several players

named their best.

The Sharks now have two wins for the season and move ahead of St Albans on the ladder.

In the women’s division 1 competition, Gisborne returned to the winners list with victory against Tullamarine. It was a low scoring first half with only one goal apiece.

The Bulldogs then kicked four goals to none in the third quarter to take control of the match.

The finished off with the only goal of the last quarter to win, 6.6 (42)-1.0 (6).

East Sunbury lost a thriller to Roxburgh Park, 3.3 (21)-2.8 (20), while the Sunbury Kangaroos and Sunbury Lions both suffered big losses.

Vernon steps down

GisbornestarJarrydVernonhasstepped down as coach for the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup club.

The Dragons announced that Vernon has decided to step down from the role due to his increasing family and work commitments.

Vernon has coached the side the past two seasons, taking it to three grand finals with the Dragons winning a one-day title and the McIntyre Cup premiership in that period.

While Vernon has stood down as coach, he will remain at the grand finalists as a player.

“It is difficult to truly put into words the impact Jarryd has had on our cricket club over such a long period of time - both on and off the field,” the Dragons said on social media.

“A five-time first XI premiership captain, six-time club champion, Kevin Sullivan Medallist, Victorian Country vice-captain, multiple GDCA team of the year representative (including captain), first XI leading run scorer, holder of the highest individual first XI score in club history (217 not out) and best bowling figures of 9/84, Jarryd’s record speaks for itself.

“Widely regarded as one of the greatest and most consistent players the GDCA has seen over the past decade, he has also cemented himself as one of the all-time greats of the Gisborne Cricket Club.

return to the field, which will cause some selection dilemmas.

“Josh Guthrie returned to play,” White said.

“Nathan Doyle returned to play in the reserves and Jack Hannett is back at the club after exploring other options in Geelong.

“We welcomed him back with open arms and he put his hand up for senior selection. It’s a good headache to have.”

White said they would see what happens in terms of their Victorian Football League listed players, but he wasn’t expecting to see Jake Suttona or Jake Egan any time soon.

The Lions will face Ballarat in Ballarat this Saturday.

White said it would be a good test.

“We’ll be able to get a few players back next week,” he said.

“Hopefully we can have some more consistency. It’s been an inconsistent year across the league.

“Once we get everyone on the park we’ll hopefully stir the shop and play well.”

“Beyond the accolades and statistics, Jarryd has helped lead our club through the most successful period in our 170-year history. His standards, professionalism, competitiveness and tireless off-field work have helped shape the culture that exists at Gisborne today.

“On behalf of everyone at the Dragons, we sincerely thank Jarryd for everything he has given to the role and to our club more broadly.”

The Dragons said that an exciting new chapter for the club will be announced soon.

As well as the re-signing of Vernon, the Dragons announced that Darcy Thomas, Spencer Jones and Mark Barake had all re-signed for the 2026-27 season.

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