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11 AUGUST, 2026

Pothole pain Kyneton Tyrepower manager Dean O’Connell with a customer’s tyre rim that was cracked travelling from Trentham after hitting a pothole. (Damjan Janevski) 569434_01

By Georgia Tacey Drivers across the Macedon Ranges are paying the price for the state of the roads, according to a Kyneton tyre dealer. Kyneton Tyrepower manager Dean O’Connell said at least four to five people each week come into the shop with damaged or blown tyres, with Kyneton and Trentham residents the hardest hit. “Potholes are the biggest danger on the road at the moment,” Mr O’Connell said. “A lot of wheels are being damaged, a lot of tyres are being damaged also.” Mr O’Connell said on average, it is costing customers $1200-$1500 to replace each damaged tyre. “We’re here to keep people safe, to make sure their tyres are safe on the roads,” he said. “At the moment, I’m getting too many coming through with damaged tyres, sidewalls, cracked rims, damage where

the tyres are bubbled out on the sidewall … which is not safe.” Kyneton, Trentham, Tylden and Malmsbury were some of the danger areas reported to Mr O’Connell by customers, and he said one customer from Trentham came to him with a cracked and damaged rim after hitting a pothole. “The potholes aren’t just little, they’re quite big potholes. Even your SUV vehicles are copping the potholes and damaging wheels,” he said. Mr O’Connell also called out the state of the Calder Freeway, which he said was “littered“ with potholes. The Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) began emergency patching works on multiple sections of the Calder Freeway on 27 July between Woodend and Elphinstone, which Mr O’Connell said was already too late. “It’s way too late … this has been going on for months,” he said.

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“It’s been left too long, like they do a quick patch up, but next downfall we have, the holes are back again. They need to do it and seal it properly.” Mr O’Connell said safety was his biggest concern. “Our cars have got to be safe,” he said. “How about we make the roads safe as well?” His warning comes as Northern Victoria MP Wendy Lovell called on the roads and road safety minister to urgently fi x the potholes on Kyneton-Trentham Road. Residents also reported the condition of the state-managed road to the Liberal candidate for Macedon Kate Kendall. Ms Kendall, who is also a Macedon Ranges councillor, said a resident she spoke to her had hit a pothole when driving between Tylden and Trentham on Kyneton-Trentham Road, which exploded the car tyre and damaged the driver’s side front wheel.

Ms Kendall said the resident, while waiting for the tyre to be replaced, saw a second motorist was also having a tyre replaced due to damage from the same pothole. “One of the big issues affecting residents of the Macedon electorate is the dangerous condition of state arterial roads in the area,” she said. “Blowing out a tyre can put motorists hundreds of dollars out of pocket during a cost-of-living crisis.” DTP confi rmed it has patched more than 50 potholes on Kyneton-Trentham Road in July, with works on the Calder Freeway also beginning in late July. The spokesperson also said after extended periods of rainfall, DTP’s focus is on making sure the area is safe and that any damage is repaired as soon as possible. Damaged roads can be reported by calling 13 11 70.

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NEWS

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Call to halt township decision By Georgia Tacey Macedon Ranges council has pleaded with Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny to halt her final decision on the proposed Clarkefield development, with her assessment on the planning scheme amendment only weeks away. Ms Kilkenny is expected to announce her decision in August on the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme amendment that would see Clarkefield transformed from a hamlet to a 2000-home township, which has seen significant backlash from council and the Macedon Ranges community. The council has urged Ms Kilkenny to now pause her decision on the amendment until major unresolved planning, infrastructure, safety, environmental and financial matters have been independently reviewed and addressed. Council said the proposal would shape Clarkefield for more than 20 years, and said the development would have long-term implications for existing communities, future residents, ratepayers, infrastructure delivery and the wider shire. Mayor Cassy Borthwick said the council was not opposed to new development or growth across the shire in principle, with council’s position reflecting the community’s sentiment. “The cost to council and the community for responsibility and maintenance of key infrastructure is not clear, and this presents an unreasonable risk and burden to ratepayers and government,” she said. “The community deserves a fair process and a fully evidenced proposal before a decision of this scale is made.” Council said it considers the proposal premature and needs further independent scrutiny across several areas of the proposal. It has questioned if the proposal would realistically be able to deliver a 20-minute neighbourhood, demanded further scrutiny on the delivery, timing and funding of roads, drainage, open space, community facilities,

Macedon Ranges councillors at an all-councillor listening post in Clarkefield (Supplied).

emergency access and essential services, and called for protections of Clarkefield’s character and environment among its list of queries. The council also wants Ms Kilkenny to commission an independent review and test the proposal through a transparent public process before a decision is reached. “People should not be asked to live for years without the roads, drainage, open space, facilities and services that make a

township work,” Cr Borthwick said. “This development is proposed to be delivered over 20 plus years. “That makes it even more important that issues like community safety, liveability, environmental protection and infrastructure delivery are addressed upfront rather than deferred for future generations to solve.” Council said its advocacy position is focused on ensuring any future growth in Clarkefield is safe, well-serviced, liveable

and sustainable; that long-term responsibilities and costs are understood before decisions are made; and that housing, employment, infrastructure and community outcomes are delivered in a coordinated and evidence-based manner. The council is preparing to launch a community advocacy toolkit for residents to understand the amendment, council’s concerns and how they can participate in the planning process.

Updated book honours the story of child sexual abuse By Glenn Fisher “It never goes away. Even though he’s dead, Ridsdale will still be punishing people for the rest of our lives.” Paul Levey has long been an advocate for child sex abuse victims and survivors. Now 58 and a Sunbury resident for more than 30 years, Levey is also the subject of author Monique Patterson’s The Boy in the Presbytery: Paul Levey’s brave battle to End the Silence, a harrowing story that has been updated and re-released following Gerald Ridsdale’s death in early 2025. “He’s gone physically, but he’s around as strong as ever mentally,” Levey told Star Weekly. In 1980, Levey’s mum entrusted her local Catholic priest, Father Gerald Ridsdale, to help her troubled 12-year-old son. So he was sent to live with his abuser in the Mortlake presbytery, where he was raped almost daily for close to a year. Ridsdale had been in prison since 1994 for the abuse of more than 70 children and was sentenced for the eighth time in 2023. A further 62 charges were brought against Ridsdale in 2024. On 18, February, 2025, Ridsdale died in prison at 90. Patterson told Star Weekly she updated the book initially after Ridsdale died, then again after Christian Brothers announced in June that they have no funds left to compensate victims of clergy abuse. “When news came out that Christian Brothers had no funds to pay survivors, it

Clergy abuse survivors Gordon Hill and Paul Levey hug each other in Rome, March 4, 2016, before the departure of a survivors’ group back to Australia after attending testimony given by Cardinal George Pell by videolink to the child abuse royal commission sitting in Sydney. (AAP Image/Lloyd Jones)

felt like yet another slap in the face to victims,” she said. “I grew up in Koroit and attended a Catholic Church. I was of the belief that you did whatever a priest told you, so I could see how easy it would be to become a victim of a paedophile priest.” Since moving to Sunbury in the 1990s, Levey has been manager at Sunbury’s Royal Hotel, worked at Sunbury Football Social Club and owned the historic Coach and Horses Inn at Clarkefield for 10 years, until he sold it just before covid struck. Levey has advocated for many years on behalf of other child sexual abuse survivors.

2 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 August, 2026

The recent passing of media commentator and self-proclaimed ‘human headline’ Derryn Hinch brought everything back to him. Hinch was jailed for 12 days in 1987 for contempt of court after publicly revealing Ridsdale’s prior child sexual abuse convictions while his trial was still pending. “I went to Derryn’s funeral to show my respect. He was one of the reasons why I came forward with my story back then,” Levey said. Patterson said the Catholic Church’s handling of the widespread clergy abuse that occurred “has been appalling”.

“Through the Royal Commission into Institutional Abuse, we learnt that many people within the church knew about the abuse that was occurring,” she said. “Instead of reporting these paedophiles to police, the church moved them to another parish where they would go on to offend again and steal the lives of more innocent children.” For Levey, the updated book is “another step towards closure”. “We wrote a lot of it together, and many times Monique had to wait for me to finish putting down my thoughts into words,” he said. “The updated final chapter was written after Ridsdale’s death, but this isn’t the end, it still goes on. “I still have nightmares and day tremors.”

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NEWS

Libs’ incinerator promise By Georgia Tacey No waste incinerator will be built in Sunbury if the Liberals win the state election in November. Liberal candidate for Sunbury Simmone Cottom has made her first election promise for the upcoming state election, promising that no waste-to-energy facility will be built in Sunbury if the Coalition is elected in November. “Our community has made it clear that we do not want this incinerator in Sunbury, and we will not let it happen,” Ms Cottom said. “Under a Jess Wilson Liberal government, we will not build Labor’s waste incinerator in Sunbury.

“Sunbury will not be turned into the state’s dumping ground under a Liberal government.” The waste-to-energy facility proposed by HiQ at its Sunbury Road site has received significant backlash from the Sunbury community, Hume council and Sunbury MP Josh Bull. A parliamentary inquiry into the development and expansion of waste-to-energy infrastructure in Victoria is also currently underway, with the Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure Committee due to hand down its report and findings in August. In June, HiQ announced that it would delay submitting its planning and environmental applications for the proposed

facility until at least August as it awaits the findings of the committee’s inquiry. No new date to submit its applications has been provided by HiQ, with the company saying it will keep the community updated when it has a clearer timeline. In August 2025, HiQ was granted a Waste-to-Energy Scheme cap license by Recycling Victoria, which would allow it to process up to 750,000 tonnes of waste annually. Mr Bull confirmed that he does not support HiQ’s proposal but stopped short of matching the Liberal’s commitment. “The Liberal party are more focused on playing politics than seriously addressing this issue,” he said. “The Liberal party did not support

the Parliamentary Inquiry into Waste to Energy- they voted against it, they voted against the community having their say. “I have been clear from the outset- I do not support this proposal. “It is why I have fought hard to ensure that our views have been heard. “I have raised this matter in Parliament, have met with both the minister for planning and the minister for the environment on several occasions, submitted to the Parliamentary Inquiry and made our voice heard- this has made a difference. “The Liberals can keep playing games, I’m not doing that- I am focused on protecting our community and resolving this issue.”

AI data centre ire

Salesian College students Xavier (front), Archie and Sierra with teacher and Sunbury Show rural ambassador Kate McIntosh. (Damjan Janevski) 568919_02

Preparations underway for Sunbury Show Roll up! Roll up! The annual Sunbury Show is just around the corner. Organised and operated by Sunbury Agricultural Society, the Sunbury Show will celebrate its 104th year in 2026 at Sunbury Recreation Reserve (Clarke Oval) on Saturday, 10 October. Society president Carolyn Colson said the Sunbury Show was a much-loved community event that celebrated the agricultural heritage, local talent, businesses and vibrant community spirit of Sunbury and the surrounding region. It is still also free to enter the many sections and competitions, including the

pavilion schedule, poultry, sheep, horses, cattle and pet parade competitions, the dog jump and small dog dash. Stage performances, sheep-shearing demonstrations, close-up blacksmithing with giveaways are just a small example of the many exhibits and demonstrations to see and join on the day, while the community hub will once again return, along with the woodworking group, school displays, the scarecrow competition, and arts and crafts in the pavilion area. Come and pat a chicken and see baby chicks close up, along with sheep, cattle and llamas, as well as the much-loved

horse competitions, carnival rides, showbags, camel rides and the return of show favourite Farmer Daryl and Wild. There will even be free trail bags for primary school aged children, who can find stamp stations located throughout the showgrounds with a free gift at each location. Salesian College Sunbury agricultural teacher Kate McIntosh is Sunbury Show’s rural ambassador and said many Salesian students would be entering categories such as homecraft and produce at this year’s show. Pre-purchase tickets online at: www.

Mental health care now available for people closer to home Macedon Ranges locals can now access free mental health care locally. The Mount Alexander Mental Health and Wellbeing Local – which services Mount Alexander, Central Goldfields and Macedon Ranges local government areas – has opened its Kyneton site. It’s one of three sites that will support the three council areas, with the Castlemaine site opening recently. The service provides free support and treatment for adults experiencing mental illness or psychological distress, without the need for a GP referral or Medicare card.

Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas welcomed the opening of the Macedon Ranges centre. “We’re making it easier for people across the Macedon Ranges to get free, community-based mental health care close to home,” she said. “This service is delivering important care without making people jump through hoops like getting a GP referral.” The free service is available for people aged 26 and over, providing treatment, care and support. It is run by a multidisciplinary team of ex-

perienced community mental health practitioners, social workers, and peer support workers. Staff deliver care through flexible appointment options, including face-to-face, via telehealth, or through outreach. The service is led by Mind Australia, in partnership with Bendigo Health and Thorne Harbour Health. The Kyneton local is located at 47-49 High Street, and is open Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm. Details: betterhealth.vic.gov.au/mental-health-wellbeing-locals

Hume council plans to hold private discussions with residents and community groups about the recent proliferation of data centres on the outskirts of Melbourne before bringing the matter back to council. The most recent application from Zerra DC for a six-stage, multi-storey data centre and two substations in Campbellfield has raised the ire of locals, with some heated words directed at councillors during the most recent council meeting. Council was set to pass a motion that would note the community interest in data centres, and support a community led forum on data centres by providing ‘appropriate in-kind support’. But the original motion put forward by Cr Karen Sherry was deferred after council was questioned by residents about the Zerra DC proposal for the site of the former Ford factory at 340 Barry Road, Campbellfield. Broadmeadows Progress Association’s John Rutherford urged the council to defer any motion on the data centre until there was information-sharing among residents and the community. Hume planning, places and delivery acting director James McNulty told councillors and the public gallery that the application had been lodged with the state government through the Development Facilitation Pathway program and that meant “there are no pathways for third party appeals, including by council”. Campbellfield resident Anastasia Drapaniotis told council she lived across the road from the site and said she had only received formal notification about the data centre on 24 July with the cut-off date of 28 July to lodge a submission. “What I’ve learned since that day about data centres is that they will destroy our neighbourhood,” she said. She said the data centre highlighted so many safety concerns, including the use of tens of millions of litres of drinking water, massive generators running off diesel fuel, lithium battery storage and non-stop noise. “It might be in an industrial zone but this has cemented the fate for those of us who live across the road,” Ms Drapaniotis said. Mayor Carly Moore said the council would reach out to have discussions behind closed doors with affected groups and residents before the matter returned to a future council meeting.

Tuesday, 11 August, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 3

NEWS

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Progress on interchange The Calder Park Drive Interchange Project will enter its next phase. Pre-construction works are underway on the upgrade, as the federal government promises to provide safer and more efficient access to the Calder Freeway for the growing communities of Melbourne’s west. The project will deliver a full diamond interchange at Calder Park Drive by raising the freeway over Calder Park Drive, removing direct freeway access from Calder Park Raceway and Organ Pipes National Park, and increasing the freeway speed limit through the interchange to 100km/h. Gorton MP Alice Jordan-Baird said the

project reflects the federal government’s commitment to ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with regions of growth, while improving safety and streamline access along the busy Calder Freeway. “Every week more families choose to call Melbourne’s west home, and it’s essential that our road network grows with our community,” Ms Jordan-Baird said. “This project will deliver a safer, more reliable connection to the Calder Freeway, reducing congestion and improving travel times for the thousands of people who use this corridor every day.” As part of the pre-construction phase,

An artist impression of the Calder Park Drive interchange.

detailed site investigations, environmental assessments and geotechnical testing will be undertaken to refine the design, obtain

planning approvals and preparing for construction. Ms Jordan-Baird said these early works are an important step towards delivering the project. “Major infrastructure projects require careful planning to ensure they are delivered safely and efficiently. These investigations will help finalise the design and prepare the project for construction. “We’re getting on with delivering the infrastructure our growing communities deserve, ensuring roads are safer, less congested and better connected - helping people get to work, school and home sooner.”

Emergency repair works on Calder

Sunbury Combined Probus Club members Marian Kear, Margaret Leary, Lorraine Harrison, Ellen Kilgariff and Jo Weigerink. (Damjan Janevski). 569566_01

Events marks half a century of Probus Sunbury Combined Probus Club is marking Probus Australia’s 50 years with a celebration of its own. Sub-committee member Margaret Leary, who is helping to organise the celebration, said the club will hold a high tea on Friday 11 September for members to come together and celebrate the milestone. “It’s significant for every Probus club in Australia,” Ms Leary said. “Every Probus club is celebrating with some kind of an event, and we’re really ex-

cited about it. “We’re going to all be indulging in this delightful afternoon tea, and we’re going to have past presidents and older members of the club talking … about their experience with the club.” Probus was originally founded in the United Kingdom. The first Australian club was founded in 1976. With the three pillars of friendship, fellowship and fun, Probus continues to provide opportunities and activities to keep members engaged with their peers.

Winter drive for type O and A blood donors

12849127-CV11-26

4 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 August, 2026

Ms Leary said the Sunbury club was founded in November 2002 and currently has 70 members who meet monthly in Sunbury to listen to guest speakers and connect with new members of the community. The social group also plans trips and outings, travelling across Australia. The Sunbury Combined Probus Club welcomes new members. Anyone interested can contact the club secretary on 0410 834 272.

Macedon Ranges travellers are advised to plan ahead with emergency repair works on the Calder Freeway underway. Works started on Monday 27 July on multiple stretches of the Calder Freeway between Woodend and Elphinstone. Sites being upgraded include 2 kilometres of the northbound lanes between Romsey Road and Anderson Road at Woodend North. Works are also underway on a 4.6km stretch of the northbound lanes, near Malmsbury and 2km of the southbound lanes between Malmsbury and Elphinstone, near Metcalfe East. Motorists will also encounter crews along 2km of the southbound lanes between Malmsbury and Kyneton. Crews will be on site between 6am and 6pm each day at the four sites until works are completed, the Department of Transport and Planning has advised. Speed limits on these sections of the Calder Freeway will be reduced to 40km/h, with lane closures in place. This traffic management will remain active while works are underway. All road users are asked to take extra care when travelling through the area, to observe traffic management signs and drive to the posted speed limit. It is expected that the works on the Calder Freeway are expected to last for up to seven weeks, weather permitting.

Ongoing shortages of type O and A blood supplies have prompted an urgent call for an extra 12,000 people to donate immediately, as peak winter illness keeps donors away and emergency orders remain high. Australian Red Cross Lifeblood said recent appeals have prevented supplies falling to critical levels but have not been enough to replenish low supplies of O-positive and O-negative blood types, which are the types used in emergencies. A-positive blood stocks have also dropped in recent weeks. About 8000 units of blood, plasma and platelets are issued as urgent or life-threatening orders every month, meaning they must be dispatched within as little as 30 minutes to support patients in critical situations. At the same time, winter illness is hindering donations. A new Lifeblood survey found almost 40 per cent of Australians have

recently experienced cold, flu or respiratory illness symptoms. Lifeblood chief customer officer Cath Stone said this wipes out potentially thousands of people from donating, as blood donors need to be seven days clear of symptoms before they can donate. Ms Stone urged people who don’t know their blood type to donate, with more than 80 per cent of Australians having an O or A blood type. O-negative and O-positive blood are particularly important because they are often used in emergencies when a patient’s blood type is unknown. “Patients in critical situations will always get the blood they need, but full fridges are essential to ensuring blood is available for everyone who needs it, when they need it,” Ms Stone said. To book a donation, call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au

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HISTORY

The missing milko mystery Williamstown amateur historian Barb McNeill is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she tells the tale of a missing milkman and the mystery of a body that washed up at Williamstown.

Joseph Elsum, 55 years old and married sometimes happily - to Sarah, was strolling along The Esplanade, Williamstown, on Saturday 8 March, 1890, when he found a body floating among the rocks near Bunbury’s Baths. Ten years previously, Sarah had proceeded against him at the Williamstown court for maintenance, and the bench had ordered 5 shillings a week for 12 months with costs. Still bitter about his wife’s unreasonable behaviour, Joe had a shrewd idea who the body might be, a man who had evoked his strong sympathy - one Patrick Blewitt, who had run away from his missus the previous month. The police were notified of the apparent drowning, and Constable Gardiner conveyed the body on a cart to the morgue. The news alerted a woman in Collingwood who read the description of the deceased, decided that it fitted her missing husband to a whisker and was preparing to claim him as her own. Shortly afterwards, she was only too happy to read the papers’ later editions about a positive identification in Williamstown, and announced that Mrs Blewitt was more than welcome to him. Mrs Margaret Blewitt quickly arranged the funeral with Mr Shepherd, local undertaker, after which she attended the inquest and identified the deceased by a burn mark on his hand. Dr Hector MacLean, who had performed the post mortem, said there was no mark of any burn on his hand or anywhere else. Constable Gardiner, who knew the milkman, said it was somebody else. The local lighthouse keeper agreed with Constable Gardiner, as did others who knew the milkman well. Th is was not Patrick Blewitt, though who he was, nobody could say. Others, however, including the Blewitts’ 10-year-old daughter, swore that it was the milko from Little Nelson Street now Aitken Street) and nothing would budge them, The jury ignored the deniers, found that the deceased was indeed Patrick Blewitt, and returned an open verdict. Thankfully, Mrs Blewitt gathered her brood and set off to bury her husband. Meanwhile, galvanised by a strong conscience, Constable Gardiner expressed grave doubts about the corpse’s identity to the coroner, Mr Samuel Candler. So insistent was the policeman that the coroner hastily scribbled an order for the body’s immediate return to the morgue and the inquest was adjourned until May. Alas, the body of the deceased was at that moment approaching the cemetery in a fi ne hearse drawn by beautifully plumed horses. By the time the order was brought by a panting Constable Gardiner, the service was over and clods were being shovelled over the coffi n. The corpse was disinterred without further ceremony, packed once more into the hearse and briskly returned to the morgue. Soon afterwards, Mrs Blewitt travelled to the city and attended the office of the Colonial Mutual Assurance Company, intending to cash in on her late, lamented husband. These gentlemen, however, had heard of the goings –on in Williamstown about the deceased’s dubious identity and were

Barb McNeill. (Damjan Janevski) 432421_03

determined to hang onto their cash. Mrs Blewitt had enough of this nonsense. Wouldn’t a wife identify her own husband, even if he had besmirched that title by buzzing off and leaving her in the lurch? She spoke to her solicitor and commenced an action against the company for payment of the 300 pounds. In the end, the cranky widow made things so hot for them that in self- defence, the gentlemen agreed to pay her the cash on 3 May. That was a bit more like it! Her good temper restored, Mrs Blewett marched back home, and there to her horror beheld the ghost of Patrick Blewitt. With a scream like a knock-off whistle, she seized a chair, intending to belt the daylights out of the apparition, until it spoke. There was no mistaking that voice. It was Patrick the milko, fully alive and extremely angry. He had, he explained, been spurred to leave her following a blistering argument about money. Using the alias John Lewis, he had spent the last few weeks slogging away on the railways in a one –horse Gippsland town so remote from civilisation that it didn’t have newspaper or postal deliveries. On returning to Melbourne, he learned that he was presumed to have been drowned.

What was going on, eh? Then it was Mrs Blewitt’s turn to be angry as she envisioned 300 pounds slipping from her grasp. Suddenly, she remembered something. After Mr Blewitt had vanished from the marital home, she had taken out a warrant to slug him for desertion, and that warrant had yet to be executed. Two days later, Mr Blewitt was cooling his heels in the Williamstown cells, awaiting his ordeal in court. Then a visitor was announced, a man waving an invoice for services rendered. Poor Mr Blewitt almost had a fatal seizure, for his visitor was none other than Mr Shepherd, undertaker, demanding payment for the funeral arranged by Mrs Blewitt. It mattered not a jot to Mr Shepherd that Mr Blewitt was still alive. The funeral had been conducted as per agreement - hearse, horses, plumed headdresses, the works. Mr Shepherd was determined that he had the law on his side. Mr Blewitt rudely contradicted him. The contract was for his burial, and he hadn’t been buried, which should’ve been obvious even to a fool like Mr Shepherd. It was the government’s problem, not his. Mr Shepherd was tersely dismissed. Meanwhile, Mrs Blewitt was regretting

her rash decision to punish her husband and meekly asked the Bench if she could withdraw her charge. Mr Aitken J.P. demurred. “Are you sure that this man is your husband? You’ve made mistakes before, you know.” She was certain. “I’m happy to have him home again, providing that he provides money for me and the children.” Was this agreeable to the defendant? It was. Henceforth, he would be a model husband and father. “Case dismissed.” “A question, Your Worship.” Mrs Blewitt piped up. “I arranged the funeral in good faith, believing my husband to be dead. Now I’m being harassed by Mr Shepherd, demanding payment for the funeral. I don’t have to pay him, do I?” Mr Aitken frowned. “Of course you must pay,” he replied brusquely. Arm in arm and most displeased, the reconciled couple left the court and there, waiting outside and ready to pounce was the very determined Mr Shepherd, still waving the invoice and yapping for his money. It was sourly paid out of Mr Blewitt’s savings, plus his wages as a railway labourer. So, who was the drowned man? The missing husband from Collingwood? The jury is still out on that one.

Tuesday, 11 August, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 5

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People get blown away by the diversity in such a space. Essentially, that is a crop to two square metres - Jerry Coleby-Williams Lettuce protected by bales of straw. (Pictures: Supplied)

How Jerry’s garden grows Resilient, reliable, sustainable - Gardening Australia’s Jerry Coleby-Williams has become known nationally as well as overseas for illustrating methods and techniques of gardening that anyone and everyone can have a got at replicating in a way suitable to their home conditions. Erle Levey spoke with the gardening guru.

erry Coleby-Williams has always been willing to share his knowledge and tropical growing skills accumulated over a lifetime. His grandfather was a keen gardener in London and that proved vital to survive in England’s war years. Jerry is one of the familiar faces on ABC-TVs Gardening Australia, with his customary trademark boater-style straw hat. He draws upon his experiences from 23 years of sustainable gardening, which includes everything from starting a garden from scratch to dealing with droughts, floods, heatwaves and a few frosts. And even though he is based in Brisbane, Jerry’s gardening advice is adaptable and relatable to anyone interested in sustainability and growing their own food. Jerry’s award-winning, sustainable property is known as Bellis. There he successfully operates a 300-square-metre sustainable garden boasting 127 different plants. “People get blown away by the diversity in such a space. Essentially, that is a crop to two square metres,” he said. Bellis is designed to be a model that anyone can replicate, featuring water efficiency, energy production, organic growing and climate resilience. Th is involves harvesting rainwater and utilising treated domestic wastewater, generating solar power, cultivating more than 100 different edible crops, rare plants, and heritage seeds. Planting native and subtropical species adapted to extreme weather, such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves has also been a priority. In 1992 he emigrated to Australia, following his ongoing passion for West Australian wildflowers. Th is led to his work at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney. In 2017 Jerry was invited to attend the United Nations conventions at Geneva in Switzerland to speak about sustainable food production. “So many things can change in an instant. “Remember we’ve been here before during Covid, remember supply chain failures and my responses to them? “I held drive-by plant sales. I supplied community nurseries with stock. I even sent the ABC an action plan to better support their gardening audience. “I warned that the Russian invasion of Ukraine would affect global grain, fertiliser

Above: ABC Gardening Australia’s Jerry Coleby-Williams. Inset: ABC gardening personalities Phil Dudman and Jerry Coleby-Williams.

and oil prices. “Remember lettuce at $12 a head? That was due to a flood crisis way back in 2022. “Now it’s the price of oil triggered by politics that’s behind the latest rising cost of food. “More prices rises are already in the pipeline because the cost of everything depends on the availability and cost of oil.’’ At the same time Jerry has a shared

6 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 August, 2026

hope for feeding the homeless through communit y-led initiatives. h Modern homes have garages for sprouting seed and for growing mushrooms. Sprouting seed is the quickest way to grow nutritionally dense food there is, he said. “Use a windowsill or a garage. I started

sprouting seed in a linen cupboard. “Sixty years ago my family used a garage for storing fruit and root crops. My current 1914 Queenslander had space under the house to park a car - until I put that space to horticulture. “In Sydney I recorded a story on just how productive a sunny garage with a permaculture makeover can be - its sides had potted fruiting tomatoes cascading down them.” Jerry has been a tenant in five cities, so he knows balconies and windowsills can produce food in containers. He gained a reputation for beautiful, edible window boxes in 1980’s Paris. Now he grows food in containers, in self-watering pots. Jerry put a raised garden bed in for his 93-year-old friend and he said she loves it. Gardening keeps her fit and attached … watering the plants, collecting seeds. In a food-sharing community you were not as isolated - anyone can share the catch from a day fishing, or cook a stuffed capsicum and have a gorgeous meal on a bed of lettuce. It’s a simple exercise that builds community. Garden clubs are another way of sharing propagating material and knowledge. “A garden is diverse. A lot I get from the garden for a meal is foraged - mint, fennel, parsley - so you are eating volunteers rather than a dedicated crop. “Lettuce cast their seed in the air. That’s the concept to get into our minds. “These are non-hybrid crops so the act of preparing dinner is a matter of getting order in yyour ggarden. “A classic example was 10 years ago I had planned an open garden day, but there was a complete crop failure in one bed. So we turned it into an exercise of what could grow in such a situation. “We created rows and blocks of bl mulch. l h useable “Enclosed by bales of hay, my crops were sheltered from drying winds and could easily be protected from frost. “Everyone thought it was planned. So saving face turned into success.’’

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Bus stop changes Two bus stops in Sunbury will be closed for several months due to roadworks. Bus Route 475 will be interrupted until to the last service on 3 November due to roadworks. Rosenthal Boulevard/ Vineyard Road and Rosenthal Shopping Centre/Elizabeth Drive bus stops heading towards Sunbury station will both be closed. Passengers are advised to use the temporary bus stops at 10 Rosenthal Road and Budburst Drive/Jersey Drive to travel to Sunbury Station.

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Kismet Park Primary School assistant principal Louisa Beckenham and acting principal Sam Carlton. (Supplied)

Pupils show their appreciation

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Kismet Park Primary School will celebrate some of their own on Friday 7 August for Principal’s Day. Students, staff and families at the Sunbury school will come together to recognise the dedication, leadership and impact of acting principal Sam Carlton and assistant principal Louisa Beckenham. To mark the occasion, students are presenting handmade cards and messages of gratitude, while staff reflect on the ways both Mr Carlton and Ms Beckenham have contributed to the school. School council president Sean Bassett said Principal’s Day is an important opportunity to acknowledge the significant work undertaken by school leaders every day.

Sam and Louisa are the driving force behind our school. They lead with passion and integrity on a daily basis and are focussed on the best for our students and the school community,” he said. “On Principals Day we take the chance to acknowledge the positive work they do for students, staff and the community.” Students will also share messages of thanks, which Mr Cartlon said himself and Ms Beckenham were honoured to receive. “It is a privilege to work alongside our dedicated staff, wonderful students and engaged families,” he said. “Any success we celebrate as a school is a reflection of the collective efforts of our entire community.”

Buses will replace trains between Footscray and Sunbury from 8.30pm 14 August to the last service on 16 August due to maintenance works on the Sunbury line. Trains will also not run through the Metro Tunnel during the works period. Buses will also replace trains along the Bendigo line during this period. On 14 August, buses will replace trains for the entire journey from Bendigo to Southern Cross from 8.30pm. On 15 August and 16 August, buses will replace all trains between Southern Cross and Gisborne, and trains will run between Gisborne and Bendigo. Coaches will depart Southern Cross Station up to 40 minutes earlier than usual time and be a mix of express and stopping all stations.

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A new dawn for aged care Arcare Sunbury opens September 2026. To learn more about this extraordinary aged care residence or to book a tour, call 1300 272 273 or visit us at arcare.com.au Tuesday, 11 August, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 7

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Evan Turok.

A ‘show of excellence’ and another Toy Story film

(Damjan Janevski) 545799_04

Romsey movie buff Evan Turok is Star Weekly’s film reviewer. Each month he shares his take on recent releases, cult classics, modern favourites and everything in between.

Toy Story 5 (G) Andrew Stanton’s Toy Story 5 is a story of replacement and the struggles of growing up in today’s world, told through a tale of toys vs. technology. When the band of toys now owned by eight-year-old Bonnie are suddenly beginning to be forgotten and cast away in place of an iPad, the sentient toys spring into action to reignite Bonnie’s imagination and help her make friends with other like-minded kids. Whether you are a fan of the original or you have been alive recently, I’m sure you have heard of the starring toy, Woody, voiced by Tom Hanks. Th is cowboy doll, over the past 31 years, has experienced levels of unmatched character development that is nothing short of perfection. Knowing that anything more that could be done to Woody would only

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All the President’s Men (M) Alan J. Pakula’s 1976 mystery thriller All the President’s Men is a show of excellence in every aspect of fi lm. From a realistic yet funny script that continues to build upon itself throughout, to acting that is natural and engaging, and, of course, award-winning production design, All the President’s Men holds a standard that is proven grueling to maintain. Th is fi lm is set fresh off events of the Watergate scandal, an incident in which one political party is caught attempting to illegally spy on and record the opposing party. Th is had devastating effects on the US and is cited as ruining the public’s trust for their elected officials. We follow a pair of newspaper journalists who are set on fi nding the truth and exposing it to the public.

serve to ruin the conclusive arc, the idea of a fi fth instalment had me nervous. The writers and directors had the same idea, choosing to push to centre stage, cowgirl toy, Jessie. Th is genius move allowed for emotional shifts and further development without a forced nature. Unfortunately, the side plots taken on by other non lead characters are weak and uninteresting, lacking the comedy we have come to recognise in Toy Story fi lms. Toy Story 5’s message about how technology is forcing kids to grow up too fast is a brutal one, strong emotion is still abundant five fi lms later. Scenes of online bullying are gut-wrenching in that signature Pixar style. A decent fi lm, but please, leave this franchise alone now.

Dustin Hoff man and Robbert Reford have a chemistry impossible to replicate. They bounce off one another with a casual grace, you can’t help but be kept in the flow of the story. Hoff man especially is very funny, which helps to cut through the complicated nature of the constantly unravelling political mystery. The uses of different camera techniques made sure the entire frame was in action. Never was the background blurred completely. There was a deliberate focus, literally and figuratively, on the background and foreground, ensuring each frame was lively, fi lled with people and activity that almost surrounded my viewing at the beautiful Astor Theater into a 360-degree experience, inviting you into the adventure and creating an environment rather than simply a scene.

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FROM THE ARCHIVES Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

35 years ago

30 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

13 August ,1991

13 August, 1996

8 August, 2006

9 August, 2016

The state government’s decision to close Caloola Training Centre by October 1992 has come under attack because of an alleged lack of consultation with staff, inmates and the Sunbury community.

Kyneton residents say they will get a raw deal on recreation if leisure plan recommendations released last week are accepted by Macedon Ranges commissioners.

Train commuters in Sunbury will have 19 new weekend services from September 3.

Unresolved planning issues will spill over to October elections after Macedon Ranges council ignored the advice of an independent panel about its plans to rezone farmland for hobby farms.

8 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 August, 2026

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New Ranges mayor By Georgia Tacey Councillor Cassy Borthwick was unanimously elected new mayor of the Macedon Ranges on Tuesday 4 August. The role became vacant after Cr Kate Kendall stepped down last month to pursue a state election bid. Mayor Borthwick, first-term councillor who served as deputy mayor under Cr Kendall, said she was looking “forward to working with the local community.” “I think the part that I’m most excited about is continuing to help the community better understand how local government actually works, and how they can engage with the decisions that impact them,” she said. The election of a deputy mayor was not as clear cut, with Cr Rob Guthrie and Cr Daniel Young vying for the position. Both councillors made their case for the role, with Cr Guthrie referencing his years of experience on council. “I commenced with council back in 2003 … at the time when the Gisborne community was concerned with the level of development that was forced on the town,” he said. Cr Guthrie said the Macedon Ranges community was facing the same pressure now in Gisborne and Clarkefield, and he could help the mayor navigate these challenges. Cr Young promised to ramp up advocacy in the lead up to November’s state election. When it came to the vote, councillors were deadlocked, with the mayor calling a vote twice without a result before closing the meeting for ten minutes for councillors

Macedon Ranges mayor Cassy Borthwick and deputy mayor Daniel Young (Georgia Tacey).

to thrash out a solution. During a third vote Cr Borthwick change her support from Cr Guthrie to Cr Young, electing him as her deputy. Cr Young thanked his fellow councillors. “I understand this was difficult with a split room and it’s always difficult when there’s a difference of opinions, but what this council group has shown before is that

we can have differences of opinions … and we can continue to work together towards good outcomes,” he said. Both Cr Borthwick and Cr Young will serve as mayor and deputy mayor for four months, until the scheduled mayoral election on 18 November. Cr Kendall was an apology for the meeting.

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$28,000 for Briohny A cocktail night to help Sunbury mum Briohny Kerr following a horrific and tragic car accident has raised more than $28,000. A Night of Hope and Healing for Briohny was a community fundraising event held on July 25 at Club Sunbury to support Ms Kerr, who tragically lost her young son in the April crash and sustained severe, life-changing injuries herself. Briohny’s family, friends and her children’s St Anne’s Catholic Primary School community swung into action to organise the event, which included a live band, raffles and auctions – all of the entertainment and goods on offer through generous donations. The final tally raised on the night for Briohny and her young daughter was $28,494. Briohny’s brother-in-law Pat McKenna said St Anne’s school PTFA committee members Petrece Brazelis, Clare Jackson and Rosa D’Urso deserved a special thank you, because they were the people responsible for not only organising the amazing event but for all the many donations. Pat said Briohny was back at home, gingerly moving around and doing some basic things. “Not even close to being able to work or drive,” he said. “It will be a year until we know what the long-term outlook will be.” The family’s GoFundMe page for Briohny will remain open until the end of August, with details at https://www. gofundme.com/f/briohnys-recoveryfrom-the-car-crash-that-claimed-herson

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Fighting cancer together When 79-year-old Montse (Montseratt) Becker first had her lungs examined by doctors, they diagnosed her with asthma. By the time doctors realised her asthma was in fact lung cancer, the disease had progressed to stage four and was terminal. In the six years since receiving this devastating news, Montse has found unexpected strength thanks to a local cancer wellness program, as Courtney Black discovers.

s Montse Becker navigates her cancer journey, she has found the motivation to keep fighting and improve her physical and mental strength through a wellness program run by Northern Health. Known as WellAhead, the program aims to bring holistic, accessible care to people living with and beyond cancer. It has been co-designed with consumers and strives to promote physical, mental, and social wellbeing through activities like yoga, qigong, and creative arts that reduce stress and boost mood. For Ms Becker, the program offers something that is hard to fi nd during cancer treatment – motivation. “It gets me out of the house, so it’s motivation really,” Ms Becker said. “There is motivation to exercise with others, as a group, because at home, I just don’t have the discipline to do it. “I know this because during the Christmas break I did not exercise at all.” Battling stage four lung cancer, Ms Becker credits the program with helping keep her symptoms under control.

Participants are able to meet with like-minded people who are on the same cancer journey ... that’s a huge benefit to them to know that they’re not alone and that they can draw strength from each other - Mike Masilamani She said gentle exercises like chair yoga, help her stay active during treatment at almost 80 years old. “The best thing about all the exercises is the breathing,” she said. “It helps especially with lung cancer, when you breathe in you get oxygen in, and cancer hates oxygen”. WellAhead facilitator Mike Masilamani said Ms Becker is an inspiring WellAhead participant who continues to fight against all odds. “It seems so unfair sometimes, but in the light of all of that to show courage is really something else,” Mr Masilamani said. “I’ve seen how she inspires others in the room, she’s a fighter, she communicates that with the others and people take strength from that.” Mr Masilamani said while Ms Becker’s cancer is largely controlled by medication, the gentle exercise helps with symptoms like swelling in her legs. “She’s fi rmly of the view that the exercise program is what has kept her symptoms at bay,” he said. “The ones that are on the program, believe it makes a very big difference in how they cope with their journey.” Ms Becker said while she is at the weekly WellAhead sessions, her mindset shifts. “While you’re here, you don’t think about the cancer, I haven’t thought about that today,” she said. Mr Masilamani said as cancer patients live longer thanks to treatment advancements, there is a greater need for tailored wellbeing programs. “Their needs are very specific and in

Back: Nothern Health spiritual care coordinator Natalia Dewiyani, U3A member Maria Rossi, WellAhead facilitator Mike Masilamani, U3A and WellAhead member Montse Becker and Genesis Care representative Angela Georgalas. Front: Sound Healing Melbourne facilitator Romy Paltoglou and Buddhist chaplain Victoria Wilson. (Courtney Black) 542635_05

fact, the kind of activities we have like the Qigong and the yoga were specifically designed with them in mind.” He said the wellbeing program was created after he heard that a cancer survivor was feeling isolated and sleeping for 20 hours a day. “His complaint was, ‘You guys held my hands, both my hands when I was a patient but when I was in remission, you let go of ve held at least one of both. Couldn’t you have my hands?’” d Mr Masilamani said this feeling of anxietyy and isolation is a huge issue for cancerr patients. “You’re alwayss dreading the nextt review and it doesn’tt allow you to reintegratee with the communityy and with society,” hee said. n “More often than not, it leads to a veryy sedentary lifestyle where you essentially become a couch potato.” Ms Becker said it is not just the exercise program which motivates her, but also the educational side of WellAhead. She was most recently inspired by the ‘Five Ways to Wellbeing’ forum. She said the talk reinforced the importance of wellbeing activities that she already focuses on. “Connection probably was the best thing I took from the talk, I learnt a few little things I will probably try to do,” she said. Mr Masilamani said he has seen how wellbeing programs facilitate community connection for cancer patients and survivors. He said he is grateful for the generous support of Whittlesea council which

10 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 August, 2026

Montse Becker has been a WellAhead participant for the last two years during her cancer journey. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 543245

funded free WellAhead open days. “Besides the physical benefits, participants are able to meet with like-minded people who are on the same cancer journey as they are,” he said, “That’s a huge benefit to them to know that they’re not alone and that they can draw strength from each other.” Ms Becker said she wishes she expressed her gratitude for the WellAhead teachers. “The teachers are doing it voluntarily ... I think that’s admirable because they work for a living and they come all the way from Caulfield just here to give their classes,” she said. “It’s been on my mind, I thought well if I win the lottery I will give them some money, the money they haven’t earned. “I should manifest that.”

Ms Becker said winning the lottery would also help her celebrate a special milestone in her home country. “I think I want to go to Barcelona this year for my eightieth, again, I went last year and the year before.” Mr Masilamani said that he is blessed to be a part of cancer patients’ and survivors’ journeys. “Seeing the courage that they bring has been so inspiring,” he said, “If this program benefits just one person and that person in question is Montse, then it is just worth doing.” The WellAhead program facilitated by Northern Health and Whittlesea U3A is open to anyone on their cancer journey. Details: https://www.nh.org.au/ wellahead/

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MY PLACE Since 2018 Mat O’Keefe has owned and operated Pride of Our Footscray, a prominent queer late night venue on Hopkins Street. He spoke to Cade Lucas about living in the area. the outskirts of Footscray to also visit the centre and there’s some really good work going on to make that happen, as things currently seem a bit unbalanced. One simple idea that was mentioned was directing safe slow-speed cycling through the middle of Footscray to encourage visitation.

What’s your connection to the north-west of Melbourne ? My grandfather Jack O’Keefe was from Footscray. He moved over to Pascoe Vale when he got married to grandma, but he took his love of the Bulldogs with him and rarely missed a game despite having 10 kids! So my dad was born in Pascoe Vale and I lived there too, as well as nearby suburbs like Preston, Brunswick West and Brunwick East. Even did a four year stint in Darwin. I found my way to Maribyrnong at the end of 2013, fi rst in Yarraville, but then moved next to the Whitten Oval to be closer to God (Bont). I have fi nally settled in Maidstone! And of course, I actually spend most of my life in Footscray running Pride of our Footscray. I’m on the Footscray Traders Association committee and am also part of the Future Footscray group through council, so I really do talk about Footscray a lot!

Mat O’Keefe. (Damjan Janevski) 553537_02

Hung Vuong’s pho helped convince me to move to Footscray, and the Banh Mi places all have their own character and stories and are basically legendary. It’s also incredible that Footscray can live so harmoniously together with so many nations represented, possibly the greatest advertisement for multiculturalism in the world. What, if anything, would you change about the area?

Sunbury Girl Guides and Sunbury Scouts celebrating ScoutFest. (Supplied)

ScoutFest celebrated Sunbury Scouts and Sunbury Girl Guides have come together celebrate ScoutFest. The event, held at the Village Green on Saturday 1 August, brought together Sunbury’s scouting groups and Girl Guides to celebrate World Scout Day. Th roughout the event, participants took part in a range of hands-on challenges, games and skill-based activities that reflected the types of experiences offered through guiding and scouting; damper making, armpit fudge, a giant merry-go-round, spar and rope bridge and a variety of giant games. The day provided an opportunity for members of both organisations to work together, share their knowledge and celebrate the values they have in common. Bringing together the Sunbury Girl Guides, 1st Sunbury Scouts and 3rd Sunbury Scouts, alongside families and volunteers, the event helped to

strengthen the connection between the two organisations. Sunbury Girl Guides unit leader Charlotte Le Guier hailed the event a success for both organisations. “ScoutFest was significant because it strengthened the long-standing relationship between Sunbury Girl Guides and Sunbury Scouts while celebrating the positive role that youth organisations play within the local community,” she said. “The event encouraged collaboration between members of both organisations, allowing young people to build new friendships, develop teamwork skills and participate in activities outside of their usual group setting.” Both Sunbury Girl Guides and Sunbury Scouts are welcoming new members. Details: guidesvic.org.au/ and scoutsvictoria.com.au/Locations/

Within the boundaries of Footscray, you have a number of very impressive things: an incredibly busy train station, the home of the world’s greatest football team, the mighty Maribyrnong River, a brand-new hospital, Footscray Park, the Heavenly Queen Temple, Footscray Community Art Centre and of course, the famous market. There’s a lot to be grateful for. But sometimes the centre of Footscray can seem eerily deserted. So we need to encourage people visiting

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you. I won the under 14s cricketer of the year in Darwin in 1992, after a good year which included my fi rst century. I thought I was going to open the batting for Australia! But I never made another 100 ever again. So my memories of cricket are quite painful, though I did contribute to a premiership in our park-grade seconds for Melbourne Wanderers as an openly gay player in 2002, wherein they called me Matty “Pretty Boy” O’Keefe in the end of season team report. Like the elusive second century, I was never called pretty ever again! Now I’m bald and hoping to learn golf! Time fl ies.

Are you a photographer based in the western or northern suburbs who loves shooting sports and news? Star Weekly is looking for new team members to join its pool of casual photographers. A driver’s licence, reliable car and photography equipment are essential. Experience shooting video is highly desirable. The role may involve Saturday work and after hours assignments. Send your resume and examples of your work to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au

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What do you like about living/working here? I love the area, which is why I both live and work within Maribyrnong. For whatever magical reason, Footscray particularly feels like everyone’s in it together, like it’s a small village, and we’re all doing our best for the village and we’re proud of its achievements. Be it the success of the Bulldogs or when Cavallaro’s cannolli gets some attention or even hyper local amazing things like the Footscray Rubbish Runners or Crokinole Club or Trugo Club, just many very cool things, not to mention the obvious other things like the Vietnamese and African restaurants.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time? Footscray Park and the Maribyrnong River trail for Pokemon with my partner Howard. The Local Cafe and French Baguette Bakery for Banh Mi. Hung Vuong for soup, Don Don for bento, Tan Thanh Loi, Viet Kitchen or Co Tham Can Tho for Viet meals, Conway Coffee, and Foodle at High Point! Also special mentions to Savers Footscray and Yen Huot Gift Shop ($2 shop) on Paisley for shopping.

Tuesday, 11 August, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 11

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Faces of the west Each week, Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing the people and events across Melbourne’s north-west.

Youn soccer player Rayhaan has raised $500 for the Cancer Council. (Damjan Janevski). 568670_06

The Nritya Rockers host regular Bollywood dance classes. Posing in their colourful costumes are Garima Gupta, Moumita Mukherjee and Ashwini Shetty. (Damjan Janevski). 568088_01

The Tarneit-based United Seniors Club received a funding boost for its Heart Healthy Generations Cricket Cup, which enocourages grandparents and grandchildren to play cricket together. (Damjan Janevski).568771_06

Moorabool mayor Steve Venditti-Taylor and Cr Sheila Freeman at the Carberry Drive Recreation Reserve new playground.(Damjan Janevski). 568179_01

Diane Capelli, Noelene Wattie, Siovhan Brister and Nicole Power; were delighted when they heard that Barro’s Kealba landfill would close. (Damjan Janevski). 568522_05

Lisa Peplow has completed 250 parkruns at Brimbank Park. (Damjan Janevski). 567563_02

ˊˢ˨˟˗ ˬˢ˨ ˕˘ˡ˘Ѓ˧ ˙˥ˢˠ ˦˘˘˜ˡ˚ ˔ ˗˜˘˧˜˧˜˔ˡʲ For those living with a chronic health condition such as diabetes, heart ˗˜˦˘˔˦˘ ˢ˥ ˔ ˟˨ˡ˚ ˖ˢˠˣ˟˔˜ˡ˧ʟ ˪˛˔˧ ˙ˢˢ˗˦ ˬˢ˨ ˘˔˧ ˖˔ˡ ˛˔˩˘ ˔ ˦˜˚ˡ˜Ѓ˖˔ˡ˧ impact on how you feel and how you manage your health. Dietitians can provide advice and practical support around food choices and nutrition and can help you manage your diet to improve your health and wellbeing. Dietitians can also assist with coeliac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s and colitis as well as managing fussy eating, food allergies, weight loss or gain and general gut problems. Practical advice includes suggestions on what foods to buy, recipe ideas, meal planning and portion sizes. Their dietitians can help you make positive eating habits ˧˛˔˧ Ѓ˧ ˜ˡ˧ˢ ˬˢ˨˥ ˟˜˙˘ ˔ˡ˗ ˗˘˩˘˟ˢˣ ˥˘˔˟˜˦˧˜˖ ˣ˟˔ˡ˦ ˧˛˔˧ ˦˨˜˧ ˬˢ˨˥ ˜ˡ˗˜˩˜˗˨˔˟ ˡ˘˘˗˦ʡ Omnia Community Health has a dietitian based at its Sunbury site and can see adults and children aged six months and over. Immediate appointments are available for those with an NDIS plan and children and adults under 65 years of age.

are now:

www.omniacommunityhealth.org.au 5421 6035

intake@omniach.org.au

12 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 August, 2026

˃˥ˢ˨˗˟ˬ ˡˢ˧ʠ˙ˢ˥ʠˣ˥ˢЃ˧ 50 years of experience

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and

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COMMENT

Bookmark Materials Coloured cardstock (15cm x 10cm) Clear plastic pocket Yarn Gems

Book in for crafty fun Each month, Stephanie Martinez will share an exciting craft project designed to inspire and spark creativity. Stephanie starred in the fi rst season of Making It on Network 10, where she discovered and ignited her passion for crafting. Join Stephanie as she explores the endless possibilities of crafting and turn everyday materials into something extraordinary. Th is month, Stephanie is creating a bookmark.

Equipment Scissors Heart shaped hole punch (or craft knife) Hole punch Double sided tape Glue Step 1: Fold the cardstock in half lengthways to create a bookmark. Step 2: Punch a heart shape through both layers near the bottom of the folded bookmark. Alternatively, draw and cut out a heart with a craft knife. Step 3: Open the bookmark and cut a section from the clear plastic pocket slightly larger than the heart. Step 4: Use double sided tape to attach the plastic over the heart on the inside of the bookmark. Add a small amount of gems inside the heart window. Seal the opening with double side tape to create a shaker pocket. Apply double sided tape around the inside of the bookmark and fold it closed. Step 5: Decorate the front of the bookmark with some hearts. Step 6: Punch a hole at the top of the bookmark and attach a tassel. To make a tassel, wrap yarn around a piece of cardboard, tie one end, cut the opposite end, then tie a small section below the top to create the tassel head.

Stephanie Martinez.

Scan the QR code and follow the links for more creative fun.

Have you had your skin checked recently?

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Tuesday, 11 August, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 13

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Study hub hits a milestone The Northern Study Hub in Broadmeadows has marked its first anniversary, with more than 200 tertiary and TAFE students now registered to attend the site. Located in Broadmeadows and Epping, the Northern Study Hub was Victoria’s first suburban university study hub. La Trobe University student Israa Lebdeh is the first in her family to attend university. Currently undertaking a double Bachelor’s degree in Science and Law, Israa and her sister, Gada, also a Bachelor of

Law student at La Trobe, regularly use the study hub as it’s close to home and less distracting than busy libraries. “I love the study hub because it’s a quiet space for people studying in higher education, sitting and finishing their work,” Israa said. “The staff are so friendly, and the hub also offers opportunities for students to socialise and attend events as well.” Israa urged others to “come in for a little tour or speak to one of the staff to see what the hub’s all about.”

La Trobe Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell said “The strong uptake in the Northern Study Hub’s first year shows there is real demand for safe, local study spaces with supportive staff, who can help tertiary and TAFE students succeed and get job-ready.” “As Melbourne’s north continues to grow, La Trobe is committed to providing higher education opportunities, which will contribute to the goal of doubling higher education participation by 2050, as outlined in the Universities Accord.”

Director of the Northern Study Hub Samantha Sterling said almost two-thirds of the people registered at Broadmeadows are female tertiary students living locally. “At the end of last year, a student came in with her mum. She was deciding what course to accept at different universities,” She said. “Knowing she had a safe, local place to study at the Northern Study Hub regardless of which course the student chose was reassuring for her and her parent.”

Sports and media personalities unite for menstrual equity

Macedon candidate, Annette Death, Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas, Social Foundry co-founders Simon Burnett and Paul Dettmann, Neighbourhoods International director of impact Shiung Low, and Social Foundry general manager Bron Burnett (Supplied).

Operator selected for Old Kyneton Primary School Members of the consortium have been involved in major transformation projects, from the repurposing of the old Kyneton Ford dealership to the reimagining of a historic tramways building. The group will oversee a program of site activations, exhibitions and events at Old Kyneton Primary School as well as opening up spaces for hire for local events and activities. In its first phase, the group will establish a new co-working hub for local small businesses and sole traders on site. Social Foundry, which delivers training for local youth facing barriers to em-

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Social Foundry has been announced as the new operator of the Old Kyneton Primary School. Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas made the announcement that the new operator was selected to help reopen and activate the site, following restoration works at the former school grounds. The new operator is a consortium that brings together local social enterprise, Social Foundry, with property management organisation, Impact Neighborhoods International, co-working organisation Waterman Workspaces and social impact corporation Valuelab.co.

14 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 August, 2026

ployment, will also expand its successful operations by utilising spaces at the site. Social Foundry co-founder Paul Dettman, who was a student at the school, welcomed the opportunity to transform the space for the Kyneton community. “This is a special place for so many from Kyneton, including for me personally as a former student, and we want to approach it with care, humility and a real sense of community responsibility,“ he said. Old Kyneton Primary School will be open in September for the Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival.

Iconic Australian sports and media personalities are coming together to support the nation’s largest donation drive for period products. Footy legends Sam Thaiday and Corey Oates, along with media personalities Christian Hull and Kip Wightman, have joined forces with Share the Dignity, Australia’s largest menstrual equity non-profit, to declare “Menstrual equity; it’s everyone’s business“. The campaign, known as the Dignity Drive, is launching its most ambitious initiative yet as the need for support soars across the country. “The reality is many people are having to choose between putting fuel in the car to get to work or buying tampons and pads,” said Share the Dignity founder and managing director, Rochelle Courtenay. “For those already experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, or severe financial hardship, they don’t have that choice at all - and that’s who our donated products are primarily helping.” With collection points located in Woolworths Supermarkets and businesses nationwide throughout August, the campaign is calling on Australians to donate period products as part of a broader national movement for menstrual equity, to ensure no one misses out on life because of their period.

PUZZLES

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

Today’s Aim: 19 words: Good 28 words: Very good 38 words: Excellent

S L S

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No. 302

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5 LETTERS ALERT ALOUD ALTOS APRIL ARVOS ATONE BASIC BATHS CARGO CHEWS DINGO EASES EDITS GARBS GATES GLUED GREET HEART IDEAL IOTAS NERVE

4 LETTERS BASE BLOC CAGE CYST GIRL ISN’T LETS LOVE NEST SECT SEWS THEN TOSS WEAN

NEWSY NINNY ODDER ONSET OPERA PAPAS PASTA PEEPS PIECE RENEW REUSE ROUSE SEEDS SHELL SLEET SLEPT SLICE SNARL SNORE STATE STEER SWAYS

7 LETTERS INTENTS LESSONS PLUSHER ROUGHER SEVERER TRASHES

TEENS TERSE TESTS THESE THETA TORSO WHIRR 6 LETTERS ANYONE ASSAIL ENACTS STRAIN

8 LETTERS ABSENTEE GUERILLA HITHERTO OPTICIAN

14-08-26

The 1992 movie A League of Their Own revolves around which sport?

Gravity Let Me Go is a 2025 book by which Australian author?

‘Running dead’ is a political term that originated in which country?

The tombstone of Edgar Allan Poe features a quote from which one of his poems?

Explorer Alfred Giles crossed Australia from south to north how many times?

Kochius is a genus of what type of predatory arachnid?

10 Anne Hathaway (pictured) stars in a 2026 sequel to which hit movie released two decades prior?

Spanakopita is a spinach pie originating in which country?

Daiso is a variety store that was founded in which country?

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – ﬁve reading across the grid and ﬁve reading down.

Crisis on Inﬁnite Earths is a famous comic book crossover series published by which company?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

No. 409

C U R S E A R O M A R I C E S A N K L E T E S T S

bake, baker, bakes, bark, barks, bask, basket, beak, brake, brakes, break, BREAKFAST, breaks, fake, fakes, freak, karat, karate, kerb, kerf, kraft, rake, rakes, sake, sark, skate, skater, stake, stark, steak, streak, take, taker, takes, task, teak, trek, treks

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No. 302

QUICK QUIZ

ANSWERS: 1. Japan 2. DC Comics 3. Australia 4. Seven 5. Scorpion 6. Greece 7. Baseball 8. Trent Dalton 9. The Raven 10. The Devil Wears Prada

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

QUICK CROSSWORD

P A S T A B A T H S G A R B S A L T O S A P R I L I D E A L S T A T E R O U S E P E E P S A R E A G E S H E L L S I P S T R A I N T H E T A S E C T P L U S H E R G E L C A G E N E S T D I N G O W E A N O P T I C I A N A L L R O U G H E R I N T E N T S G U E R I L L A L E T S N E E O D D E R B L O C C Y S T E R A S E V E R E R I S N T T H E S E A N Y O N E O N E T E E N S S P A P E A A T O N E C H E W S T O R S O A R V O S R E N E W T E R S E S E E D S T E S T S S W A Y S

No. 302

S C A M P F R A N C I S C O B R A M H P X U C A R T O O N I M A G E R Y I F T S I C G C S U N R I S E I N D I A N A G N S E N N C A S H C H E M I S T R Y T T I O O G E A S Y C H R O N I C L E R K S R N M S A T I A T E A P R I C O T A H A H R T R S C O N T A I N I N U T E R O G S G R C R U O T A S K S T H E R E F O R E

SUDOKU

Tuesday, 11 August, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 15

COMMUNITY

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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

Science Week Celebrate National Science Week (15–23 August) on Thursday 20 August from 10am-2pm at Macedon Ranges Further Education Centre (MRFEC) with a Permaculture Workshop and Community Lunch. Explore the principles of permaculture and how they can apply to your life and garden, then stick around afterwards for the community lunch. Free event, RSVP required for catering purposes. 5428 3799, mrfec.net.au

Art to wear Art to Wear in The Gallery is the feature of the Focus Room at the Gallery Mt Macedon for the month of August beginning Tuesday 4 August until Monday 7 September. Ten textile artists, including members of The Gallery, will show knits, silks, felts, hats and much more. The public is invited to a Meet the Maker event on Saturday 15 August from 1-4pm. The Gallery is at 684 Mount Macedon Road, Mt. Macedon behind the Trading Post, open Friday to Tuesday, 10am-4pm. colleenweste@gmail.com, 0419 009 030

Rotary tall ship Sunbury Rotary are inviting youth aged 15 to 17 years of age for the adventure of a lifetime, aboard a tall ship. Youth will be able to learn how to sail and steer the ship over a short journey alongside other Rotary youth. Terry 0455 667 277, Bob 0407 546 000

Sunbury Blue Light Disco Sunbury Blue Light Discos run throughout the year at the Sunbury Memorial Hall for primary school-aged children. Established in 1987, the initiative is led by dedicated Victoria Police members and community volunteers, and are always looking for more volunteers to add to the team. facebook.com/sunburybluelightdisco, sunburybluelight@gmail.com

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of the Indian Bengali adaptation of Canterville Ghost featuring director-actor Swastika Ganguly (middle), with actors Sayan Tani and Amitabha Chakraborty. (Damjan Janevski) 569192_01

Sunbury Repair Cafe Happening every third Saturday of the month at Sunbury Neighbourhood House from 10am-12.30pm. Join the team for a cuppa and a skill share repairing broken items to help prevent it from going to landfill. sunburyhouse.com.au

having fun and keeping fit at the same time. No partners needed, just a smile and sense of fun. Lynne, 0417 331 439, Norm, 0408 592 609

Chamber Poets Crop Swap Swap your excess produce and get your hands dirty learning about the edible, indigenous and useful plants in Sunbury Neighbourhood House’s garden. Happening every third Saturday of the month from 10am onwards at the Sunbury Neighbourhood House. sunburyhouse.com.au

Sunbury Badminton Club The club plays social games at all times, with tournament and competition nights during the year. All are welcome to attend at Clarke Oval Stadium, 49 Riddell Road, Sunbury. Open Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday and Saturday nights 7.30-9.30pm. Plus Wendnesdays 10am -noon. sunburybc@gmail.com

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

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

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 week 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

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.

16 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 August, 2026

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 Artrise 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, woodlandsladies.3429@gmail.com

With One Voice Sunbury 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

Malmsbury Farmers and Makers Market

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

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

Neighbourhood garden

Messy Play in Sunbury

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, 9740 6978

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, 9740 6978

CWA Sunbury

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ENTERTAINMENT

Ready to rock the Ranges The Ranges are ready to rock as some of the region’s best talent battle it out. Macedon Ranges council youth team’s Music in the Sticks (MITS) will once again host the Battle of the Bands, with the line-up this year featuring five local youth bands with a total of 24 young up and coming musicians. On Friday 14 August, the Civilians, Dead Silver, Saile, Bandemic and the Felonys will all take centre stage as they vie for the winning crown and top prize. The bands will be judged by three music industry judges, including MITS graduate and local youth sound engineer Arabelle Poucher, award-winning musician and local music tutor Lucy Wise, and local youth music industry mentor and sound engineer Jacob Munnery, with two prizes up for grabs. The main prize of the night will be a $1500 recording opportunity at local Field Day Recording Studio, while People’s Choice will take home a Mannys Music

Store voucher worth $1000, helping local artists kickstart their careers. MITS leader and music industry professional Jeff Tynan said there’s a vibrant youth music scene in the Macedon Ranges, with this event an opportunity to highlight their talents. “MITS events like this one celebrates talent and creativity whilst bringing young people together to connect with peers and contribute to a thriving community,” he said. “It’s as much about the personal growth as it is about the musical journey and through the MITS program it’s a privilege to share with young people skills and opportunities to help fulfi l their dreams of pathways into the music industry.” The five bands will battle it out on the Kyneton Town Hall stage on Friday 14 August. Doors will open at 6pm, with the event expected to conclude at 10pm. Tickets are $5 and are going fast. Details: mrsc.vic.gov.au/mits

Kyneton High School’s Bandemic will perform at the Battle of the Bands. Pictured is Francis Allen, Frankie Stagoll, Sidney Price-Robertson, Mila Hardiman, Asher Thomas and James Jarrett. (Supplied)

Greek myths set upon St Albans A new, original musical, Low Key Chaos, is set to run at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans Saturday 21August and Sunday 22 August . Written and directed by Sonja Wright, this community production mixes classical chaos with theatrical intrigue. “It’s original everything. Original story, original lyrics and its fully community based,” Wright said. “We have talent from ages 17-73 amongst the class from all different backgrounds with people coming from across the state.” The story centres around the Greek gods of Olympus, with a drama featuring Dionysus, Hera and norse god Loki. “The central themes are identity, belonging and friendship. It asks the question – is adoration worth sacrifice or should you be your authentic self even if you are not always admired?” Wright said. Wright was aided by talented family members with her niece and daughter contributing to choreography as well as her brother assisting with sound and audio-visuals. “It was actually quite daunting,” she said. “I’ve been working my full-time day job as well as doing all the behind the scenes stuff, advertising, meetings. It’s been a huge effort but to see my little story from two years ago about Dionysus now come alive on stage with people wanting to watch feels amazing.” Wright applauded the cast for its efforts in learning the original material. “The cast have done an amazing job of learning everything,” she said.

Footscray Flix to show 80’s hits

Alexander Glenk as Dionysus. (Supplied)

Wright has already put out a call for those interested for future productions. “We’ve already got next year’s musical in the pipeline. If people enjoy singing,

dancing and acting then it would be great to see community support.” Details: https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1548029

Inner-west film buffs wanting to see a movie have long had the choice of going up to Highpoint or down to the Sun Theatre in Yarraville. However, up until the late 1980s, Footscray was the west’s cinema central with La Scala, Trocadero, the Grand, and Barkly Theatres once located within 500m of each other. In honour of those four theatres that closed nearly four decades ago, a for-day film festival will be held in Footscray at the end of this month. Presented in partnership with Sun Theatre in Yarraville, Maribyrnong council is hosting Footscray Flix from Thursday 27 August to Sunday 30 August. With none of the four theatres able to be revived for the event, a purpose built 100-seat pop-up cinema will be erected at 34 Moreland Street , in between Yewers and Wingfield streets. The venue will host four nights of 80s and 90s popcorn classics, with tickets at 1980’s prices. The program opens on Thursday 27 August with films shot in Melbourne’s west, including The Big Steal, filmed in Footscray, and Mad Max. Friday 28 August is Slackers Night featuring Dazed and Confused, and Trainspotting, while 30 August is Sci Fi Saturday with ET, Alien, Blade Runner all showing. Footscray Flix then concludes on 31 August with Swayze Sunday and two of the 80’s heart-throb’s biggest hits: Point Break and Dirty Dancing. Details: https://collections. humanitix.com/footscray-flix

Go Bacchus to the 80s at a spectacular live concert this September Celebrate one jam-packed, fun filled event for the whole family, featuring your favourite songs from one of music’s most colourful decades over one weekend next month. Turn back the clock and get ready to relive one of the greatest decades in music when the Bacchus Marsh Theatre Company presents Back to the ‘80s, a spectacular live concert celebrating the unforgettable hits of the 1980s. Featuring a full cast of talented local

performers backed by live musicians, the high-energy production is set to combine the iconic hits of the 80s with stunning vocals, dazzling choreography, and a spectacular light show. Organisers have promised an electric night filled with 80s hits to suit everyone, regardless of their age. Whether you remember the decade firsthand or you’re introducing a whole new generation to the music, there’s something

for everyone in the fun-filled family show that’s guaranteed to have audiences singing along. “Re-Live the 80’s or share it with a whole new generation - there’s something for everyone,” organisers said. Everyone young and old is invited to tag along, with four performances across one weekend in September available to choose from for an entertaining trip back to one of music’s most colourful and electrifying

eras. So get back to the 80s on Friday 4, Saturday 5, and Sunday 6 September with the Bacchus Marsh Theatre Company at the Bacchus Marsh Arts & Cultural Hub, located at 5 Grant Street, Bacchus Marsh. Performance times are from 7.30pm on Friday, 1pm and 7.30pm on Saturday, and 3pm on Sunday. Tickets and details: https:// events.humanitix.com/back-to-the-80-seq6sa7dc.

Tuesday, 11 August, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 17

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. True or false: Simone Biles has won the most Olympic gold medals of any gymnast?

3. I’m a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! contestant Luke Bateman played 71 games for which NRL team?

2. Terry Bollea is the real name of which late US professional wrestler?

4. Kyle Shanahan is the head coach of which NFL team? 5. Which Whic Fremantle Dockers foot footballer’s nicknames inclu include The Big Cohuna and Cyclone? 6. Which Whic country’s national netball team won gold at netb 2026 Commonwealth the 2 Games? Gam 7. Wh Which New York Liberty play was awarded MVP player of the th 2026 WNBA AllSta Game? Star 8 Which country did 8. Australia’s national netball team defeat to claim bronze at the 2026 Commonwealth Ga Games? 9. And which country defeated Australia in defe netball semifinals? the n 10. Whic Which state or territory capital is set to host the capi final finals of the NBL’s inseas season Ignite Cup from 2027 2027?

Simone Biles

Gianni Infantino

12. Who has captained the Australian women’s football team since 2019? 13. What is considered to be the national sport of Japan? 14. Winning gold in her debut at the London Olympics, who is widely regarded as the greatest female swimmer of all time? 15. Which North Melbourne player captained Australia to victory in the 2026 AFLW Australia v Ireland match? 16. English amateur cricketer Brian Devine has become widely known by what nickname? 17. Which class of car has the highest top speed: IndyCar, NASCAR or Formula 1? 18. What is unique about the technique of table tennis Paralympian Ibrahim Hamadtou? 19. Controversial ﬁgure Gianni Infantino is the president of which sports governing body?

20. In the Super Netball league, how many points is a super shot worth? 21. How many balls are on the table at the start of a standard game of pool? 22. Which sport is featured in the movie The Game Plan? 23. Potential Carlton prospects Cody and Lukas are the sons of which former players respectively? 24. What are the nicknames of the two Sydney AIHL teams?

26. Who was the only Collingwood player represented in the 2026 AFLW Australia v Ireland match? 27. In which year did Sir Don Bradman die? 28. The Gangurrus is the nickname of which Australian sports teams? 29. Which wrestler became interim WWE Women’s Champion at this year’s SummerSlam? 30. And which match did she win?

25. Which word that can mean ‘the clothes worn by sports players’ is used in the NATO alphabet?

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1. False (Larisa Latynina) 2. Hulk Hogan 3. Canberra Raiders 4. San Francisco 49ers 5. Josh Treacy 6. New Zealand 7. Jonquel Jones 8. England 9. Jamaica 10. Canberra 11. 1960; Rome, Italy 12. Sam Kerr 13. Sumo wrestling 14. Katie Ledecky 15. Jasmine Garner 16. Clicky Ponting 17. IndyCar 18. He holds the paddle with his mouth 19. FIFA 20. Two points 21. 16 (cue ball and 15 object balls) 22. American football 23. Andrew Walker (Cody) and Anthony Koutouﬁdes (Lukas) 24. Ice Dogs and Bears 25. Uniform 26. Sarah Rowe (for Ireland) 27. 2001 28. 3x3 basketball teams 29. Chelsea Green 30. Five-way ladder match

1408

11. When and where were the ﬁrst Paralympic Games held?

Tuesday, 11 August, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 19

Premium car for less cash By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring RATINGS

Launched here in late 2025 the Leapmotor B10 is a fully-electric compact SUV from the new Chinese brand backed by the huge Stellantis group which brings a number of brands to Australia including Jeep, Peugeot, RAM, Fiat and Alfa Romeo. We’re told that the unusual name is a loose translation from the Chinese Lingpao Qiche that means Zero Run Automobile. Makes sense. Leapmotor B10 is the brand’s second model joining the larger C10 SUV that arrived here in early 2025. It’s currently EV only but we’re told that an extended range hybrid (REEV) version will be added later this year. We understand that a Leapmotor B05 compact electric hatchback will be added to the range later this year. Others, yet to be confi rmed, include a city electric SUV and a large seven-seat SUV plug-in hybrid. Two variants of the B10 are available, both powered by the same rear-mount motor but charged by different Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries. The entry-level Style has a 56.2 kWh battery and is priced at $37,888 plus on-road costs while the B10 Design Long Range generates 67.1 kWh and sells for $40,888 plus ORCs. The B10 is backed by a six-year, 150,000km vehicle warranty and an eight-year, 160,000km high-voltage battery warranty.

Exterior While Leapmotor B10 shares much of its overall styling with its larger C10 sibling, its compact proportions give it a slightly sportier look. Having said that there’s little that will have it stand out from its numerous compact SUV rivals. Both B10 variants come with LED automatic head and brake lights, a fi xed panoramic glass roof with a powered blind, LED automatic headlights and 18-inch alloy wheels. The Design LR grade adds an LED dynamic rear light bar, rear privacy glass, automatic power folding mirrors, rain-sensing wiper and a power tailgate. Oddly, there are no rear wipers on either model. Six colours are available. Light White and Starry Night Blue are standard. The other four are $990 options: Galaxy Silver, Tetra Grey, Dawn Purple and Metallic Black.

Interior The inside of the Leapmotor B10 is a real surprise with a look and feel that’s comparable with a much more established and more expensive brand. As is the norm with Chinese EVs the dash is dominated by a large touchscreen and no physical controls. There are some quirky features such as the three oval openings at the top and bottom of the dashboard in front of the passenger. Nobody could work out if they were functional or just decorative. Style comes with grey fabric seats with the Design getting what Leapmotor calls TechnoLeather aka synthetic seats. The front seats are heated, ventilated and powered with six settings for the driver and four for the passenger. The steering wheel is also heated. The customizable 64-colour interior ambient lighting system can sync with the car’s sound system. The twin cupholders in the front are tucked behind the centre console and difficult to reach especially at night. Which isn’t a bad thing because they fold up and down, as my grandson suggested, like toilet

Looks: 8/10 Performance: 8/10 Safety: 8/10 Thirst: 7/10 Practicality: 7/10 Comfort: 7/10 Tech: 7/10 Value: 8/10

The Leapmotor B10 offers outstanding value for money. (Pictures: Supplied)

seats. Five-year olds notice these things. Boot space, once you discover that it’s accessed through a small button in the right centre of the rear, is a decent 490 litres including the extra under-floor space where items such like as the charging cables (mode 2 and 3) and the tyre repair kit which, sadly, is required in lieu of a spare wheel. There is a small frunk for storage under the bonnet. Vehicle to Load (V2L) is standard although the cable isn’t. It costs around $280. With the rear seatbacks folded, boot space expands up to 1475 litres. The tailgate can also be opened through the touchscreen.

Powertrain The B10 is powered by a high-efficiency electric motor delivering 160kW and 240Nm of torque. Zero to 100km/h is listed at 8 seconds with a top speed of 170km/h. The Style has a 56.2 kWh battery with an 11kW maximum AC rate through three-phase power that can charge from zero to 100 per cent in around six hours. With single-phase power that drops to 7.4kW and around 10 hours. Both Style and Design LR support 11kW AC charging and ultra-fast DC charging up to 168 kW (Design LR), enabling a 30 to 80 per cent charge in approximately 20 minutes. The charge port is located at the rear driver’s side. Both Style and Design LR support DC charging up to 168 kW (Design LR), enabling a 30 to 80 per cent charge in approximately 20 minutes.

Safety Leapmotor B10 was tested by ANCAP in November 2025 and received the maximum five-star rating. A positive for parents is a near-perfect child occupant protection score. There are seven airbags including one in the front centre position. Also standard are adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, emergency lane keeping, speed assist system, blind spot monitoring, front collision warning, rear cross traffic alert and braking, rear parking sensors, and driver attention monitoring.

20 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 August, 2026

As is now the norm with Chinese EVs the frustrating and incessant alerts that have drivers screaming ‘Just Let Me (expletives deleted) Drive!’ such as lane correction, speed limit alert and driver alert can be turned off. While they do need to be turned on every time the car re-starts there is a customisable button on the steering wheel where they can be turned off again with a single touch. One surprising omission in either model, and a trap for the unwary, is the absence of front parking sensors.

Infotainment Standard in both B10 variants are a 14.6-inch colour touchscreen and an 8.8-inch LCD driver instrument cluster. There’s also satellite navigation, 360-degree camera with guidelines, an integrated 360-degree dashcam recorder and wireless smartphone charger. The high-resolution screens are both fast and sharp. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both wireless. Style comes with a basic six-speaker audio system. Design adds 12-speaker surround sound.

Driving At 4.5 metres the Leapmotor B10 is only marginally smaller than the C10 and can carry five adults in reasonable comfort. Entry into the B10 is through a frustrating digital keyless system that requires an NFC key card to be tapped on a tab on the outside of the driver’s side mirror. There is a smartphone app as an alternative. While both methods unlock the doors, they don’t open the flush handle which needs a button to be pushed and the handle then pulled out. The card then has to be placed on the left-hand side of the centre console otherwise the vehicle won’t start, although it can then be moved. Fortunately, common sense has prevailed and after a wave of buyer complaints, we’re assured that physical keys will progressively be introduced with the keycards remaining only as a backup. On the positive side there is a Leapmotor App that provides remote access as well features such as vehicle status, vehicle location and scheduled charging.

B10 is a capable city transporter with the smooth, steady acceleration that is the norm in electric vehicles. It lacks the whiplash pick up of performance EVs but does move from zero to 100km/h in 8 seconds making it sharp enough for quick lane changes when needed. There are three drive modes: Comfort, Standard and Sport. In Sport there’s noticeably more response in steering and throttle for greater driving enjoyment. Stellantis input shows up in a relatively fi rm but comfortable ride. It grips the road and corners securely with minimal body roll. There is three-stage brake regeneration with One-Pedal driving available in the Design LR. Leapmotor quotes NEDC range of 442km from the Style and 516km with the Design. These equate to the more realistic WLTP numbers of 361km and 434km respectively. Energy usage is listed at an impressive 14.0 kWh (Style) and 14.1 kWh (Design).

Summing up With so many new brands coming from China it’s getting increasingly difficult to evaluate each of their credentials and compare them with each other. While some like MG, BYD and GWM are now well-established, others, including Leapmotor, are still largely unknown. The fact that it’s part of the Stellantis group, currently the world’s fourth-largest automobile manufacturing group should reassure potential buyers. Importantly, Stellantis didn’t just take Leapmotor off the shelf. Its engineers provided significant input into the design, chassis tuning and driving characteristics. It’s a reasonably spacious and comfortable family vehicle that’s equally at home in either urban or motorway conditions and it’s large enough to make for an excellent long-distance cruiser. Potential buyers will need to be patient as they scroll through the seemingly endless controls stored within the touchscreen but by the end of our week-long test we had grown to understand and appreciate its quality. Best of all, it offers outstanding value for money especially with the extra features and extended range in the Design variant costing just around $3000 more than the Style.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMONWEALTH GAMES

Local stars shine at Games With the Commonwealth Games now over, Tara Murray has a quick look at how all the athletes from Melbourne’s north-west performed. Lara McSpadden The Keilor Thunder star helped Australia claim gold in the 3 x 3 women’s basketball event. The Aussies went through undefeated despite being a player down in the finals with Emma Clarke injured Jacob Cassar The Taylors Lakes boxer came away with silver from the Commonwealth Games. The 19-year-old made it through to the gold medal match of the 65 kilograms event, before falling to England’s Patris Mughalzai. Aoife Coughlan Aiming for back-to-back gold medals, Coughlan had to settle for silver in the women’s 70 kilogram judo event. Coughlan made the gold medal match. In an exhaustive 8:17 minutes, the Victorian eventually claimed silver on her second showing at the Games. Liz Watson and Kate Moloney The former City West Falcons pair won bronze medals as part of the Australian Diamonds netball team. After losing the semi final to Jamaica, the Aussies bounced back in the bronze medal match to beat England, 68-50. Chris Mitrevski The Brimbank long jumper narrowly missed out on a medal. Mitrevski finished fourth only six centimetres behind the bronze medalist. It was an improvement on ninth at the last games. Tinka Easton Easton was the first of the four Resilience Training Centre athletes in action in

Lara McSpadden (left) with her gold winning teammates. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch)

the competition as she looked to defend her title in the 52 kilogram women’s event. After a quarter final win, Easton lost in the semi finals before losing in the bronze medal match to come home empty handed. Danny Vojnikovich Vojnikovich pushed deep into the competition in the men’s -90kg, reaching the bronze-medal contest before finishing fifth after a golden-score battle with Scotland’s Scott Cusack. Linden Hall Linden Hall was competing in her third Commonwealth Games. This time com-

peting in the 5000 metres, Hall finished fifth in the final before her Australian teammates Rose Davies and Jess Hull, who claimed gold and silver. Tara Kinder The Bundoora swimmer had a heavy program in the pool, competing in five events. She made the final in the 200 metres breaststroke, 200 metres and 400 metres individual medley. She finished with two fifth places and a sixth place. Aaron Teys and Corey Wedlock The Deer Park Club pair competed in the men’s pairs event. After winning their early matches, losses to Northern Ireland

and New Zealand saw them knocked out of finals contention. Peter Bol After having a strong heat run, Peter Bol was unable to deliver in the final of the men’s 800 metres on the track. After medalling at the last games, Bol faded to finish eighth. Uneeq Palavi Palavi again showed why she is one of the most exciting netballers in the world. Playing all but about a minute, due to a dislocated finger, she led the goalscoring for Tonga in every game. Tonga finished ninth in its first games.

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Tuesday, 11 August, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 21

SPORT

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Sixth spot up for grabs By Tara Murray The sixth and final spot in the Riddell District Netball League finals will come down to the final round. With the top six spots up for grabs until the last few rounds, the battle for sixth will come down to Macedon and Kyneton, while the fight for the double chance is still alive for a number of sides. Following results on Saturday, the Cats enter the final round in sixth spot, two points clear of Kyneton. The Cats moved into sixth spot with a 6444 win against bottom side Melton South. Chloe Williams shot 32 goals for the Cats, while Alana Ellis, in her A-grade debut, shot 23 goals. Olivia Nicholas also made her A-grade debut for the Cats in the win.

Meanwhile, the Tigers slipped out of the top six with a loss to Wallan, 38-26. The Tigers were without star goalshooter Ellie Bird and it made a difference as they couldn’t keep up with the Magpies. Hayley Bourke shot 11 goals for the Tigers, while Evie Stothers shot 10 goals. In the final round, the Cats face Lancefield in the final round, while Kyneton faces Woodend-Hesket. A win for the Cats would seal a finals spot. A loss and a Tigers win, means the Tigers will play finals for the first time in the RDNL. In other results, finals bound Lancefield, Riddell and Gisborne Giants all had wins. Lancefield came away with a big win against Melton Centrals, 66-33. Shanae Brundell shot 59 goals for the Tigers for the win. Riddell snuck home against Romsey, 54-

Lauren Girvan. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 560548_04

52. Tilly Allen shot 26 goals for the Bombers, while Ellen Close shot 17 goals. Close was named the Bombers best along with Milly Shaw and Brianna De Hass. For the Redbacks, Maddison Thompson shot 42 goals in the loss.

Thompson was named the Redbacks best. The Giants were able to come away with a 48-37 win against Diggers Rest. Malia Seumanutafa shot 35 goals for the Giants, while Olivia Craske shot 13 goals. For the Burras, Kalley Tukaokao shot 19 goals, while Isobel Robertson shot 18 goals. Heading into the final round, Woodend-Hesket sits two points clear on top from Wallan, with Lancefield and Riddell a further two points behind. The two top sides will have a double chance come finals. The Giants sit in fifth spot. In other final round matches, Melton South hosts Riddell, Romsey will play the Gisborne Giants and Melton Centrals will finish its season against Wallan. The Burras have a bye.

(Ljubica Vrankovic) 563558_01

Young stands down

Tayla Honey. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 548784_10

Lions ready for the fight as Bailey re-signs By Tara Murray Sunbury Lions coach Kim Bailey said unfinished business made it an easy decision to re-sign for the Ballarat Netball League club. The Lions announced that Bailey would continue on as coach next season, her fourth season in this stint as coach. Bailey said there was no hesitation in signing on. “There’s a little bit of unfinished business,” she said. “I can see how much the under-19s have grown and I’m excited to see what they can do in the next few years. “I want to finish off with them and see how they go.” Bailey said while some of their sides have tasted premiership success the past few years, she was keen to try and ensure every grade gets that feeling. Every team is currently in the top four heading into the final three rounds of the season. “If things fall our way the next three weeks, we’ll have some teams finish in the

top two,” she said. “If we can have one or two in third spot as well, we’re in a good position overall with the depth that we have in the club.” Bailey said their depth had been tested this year, more than expected. She said they knew there would be challenges with players in high performance environments, but they’d had more injuries than they had in the past as well. The Lions A-grade side, which is aiming for a third straight grand final, sits in fourth position with two weeks remaining. On Saturday they faced North Ballarat in a big match in the context of their season. The two sides drew earlier in the season, with North Ballarat sitting second on the ladder. The Lions had Kim Borger and Jasmine Fraser play and help out the side and it paid off, with the Lions winning, 60-54. Lani Fauonuku returned to the side in recent weeks and after playing defence in her first game back, she’s set to be settled in attack to continue to build those connections heading into finals.

22 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 August, 2026

She finished with 10 goals on Saturday as she shared the goal attack role with Caitlin Hill. Bailey said they would love to finish in third, but expected that battle to go down to the final round. They are two points behind Lake Wendouree. Bailey said they were hopeful of getting Eliza Gollant back for finals which would be a big help. The Lions face East Point this Saturday. Meanwhile on the football field, the Lions winning run ended at three on Saturday. The Lions were at home against North Ballarat but never really got going. Scores were level at quarter time before North Ballarat led by 20 points at half time. North Ballarat continued to lead heading into the final quarter and finished off strongly to get the points, 11.11 (77)-7.6 (48). Jake Sutton, who kicked four goals, was named the Lions best. The Lions remain fifth on the ladder.

Sunbury Kangaroos co-coach Dean Young will step down at the end of the Essendon District Football League division 2 season. The Kangaroos announced on Sunday that Young wouldn’t continue on as co-coach alongside Shanon Carroll. “After a stint as assistant coach before stepping into the co-coach role alongside Shanon this season, Dean has made the decision to step down at the end of the season to pursue new opportunities,” the club said. “We sincerely thank Dean for his dedication, commitment, and service to our club. “His contribution has been greatly appreciated, and he’ll certainly be missed—along with his family, who have been a valued part of our club community. “We wish Dean and his family all the very best for 2027 and beyond. “Whether it’s in another role in football or simply catching up with friends around the club, we’re sure we’ll see you again.” Young joined the Kangaroos after a stint as coach at Glenroy. He had been at the Kangaroos for 13 years joining Glenroy and said after his appointment as cocoach that he had always been keen for another opportunity at a senior coaching role. Young will coach in his final game as co-coach this Saturday after the Kangaroos finals hopes came to an end. The Kangaroos lost to Hadfield on Saturday, 16.14 (110)-13.9 (87). Mitch Streiff kicked four goals, while Declan Corcoran and Josh Nanninga were named the Kangaroos best. The loss leaves the Kangaroos two games outside the top four with one round remaining.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Jets women give it their all By Tara Murray It was a tough end to a difficult season for the Sunbury Jets in the Big V women’s championship division on Saturday night. The Jets got off to a flier and won their first three games of the season, before injuries, illness and travel took its toll. The Jets finished with six wins for the season. Speaking before the game, coach Debbie Coulson said they had wanted to end the season with a bang. “The great thing about the group is they always give everything,” she said. “Nothing more I could have asked for as a coach.” Coulson said it had been tough. “We’ve had players in and out with injury and it’s been hard to maintain momentum,”

she said. “We’ve done great with minimum numbers especially in the back end of the season.” Coulson said for much of the latter part of the season, they had played with seven or eight players. She said it meant big minutes for those who were suiting up. “We’ve been keeping with teams, like McKinnon which is top, in the first half, but in the second half the fatigue kicks in. “They are a really connected group and they have done really well. “I’ve been really proud of those who are still out there.” The Jets finished off their season on Saturday night against the Pakenham Warriors. The Warriors jumped out of the blocks in the first quarter and led by 15 points at quar-

Charlie Mckinnon. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 559186_03

ter time. It was 17 points at half time before a 26-4 third quarter saw the Warriors ensure they got the points. The final score was 84-55. Kayla Salmons top scored with 16 points, while Abby Hildebrand had 14 points. Coulson said the club would have to add more players next season.

But after one year in the role, Coulson won’t be returning as coach. She said while she loved her time at the association and the community, other commitments meant that it made staying on too hard. “I’ve got my Australian commitments [Australian under-21 deaf team],” she said. “There’s the World Championships next year in June in Italy. “It would be disruptive with me leaving. It isn’t good for me or the club.” Meanwhile, the Jets men finished their championship season with a 94-91 loss to the Warriors. The two sides traded baskets in the final quarter, with the Warriors in front when the siren went. Rhyss Lewis top scored for the Jets with 23 points.

Sports shorts VTCA Former Sunbury coach Justin Nelson is returning to the club for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association McNamara Shield season. Nelson, who coached East Sunbury in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association, provides the Roar with another all rounder. The club said he’s a wonderful cricketer and high-quality human to have around the club.

EDFL Mark Hourigan has been re-appointed East Sunbury coach for the Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 competition. Hourigan, who took on the role this season, will once again be joined by Vic Taranto, Adam Kirk, Justin Nelson, Joel Warr and Travis Preece who are all returning. “By securing our Senior Women’s coaching team early, planning is already underway as we look to build on the foundations laid this season, continue developing our players and create even more memorable moments next year,” the Thunder said.

GDCA

Matt McDonald. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 553487_04

Sharks produce their best game of the year By Tara Murray Rupertswood produced its best performance of the Essendon District Football League division 1 season, as it aims to finish the season on a high. The Sharks upset Tullamarine on Saturday, the first time the Sharks have beaten a top five side this season. Sharks’ coach Brad Fox said the performance was a great result, with the Sharks winning 13.9 (87)-9.13 (67). “Winning away from home against a side that will play finals,” he said. “We still had a young list out there. “We stuck to the game plan and we were fierce at the contest which was the difference.” Fox said it was tough conditions with the wind going straight down the ground. He said whichever side had the breeze had a clear advantage. “We had a different game plan for if we were with or against it,” he said. “The players executed it really well.” Tullamarine led by 11 points head-

ing into the final quarter, having had the breeze in the third quarter. Fox said they were thrilled to have kept them to two goals in the third, giving them a real crack to come home over the top of them. “Anything under five goals we were really happy with,” he said. “We felt confident that we could get the job done and we were in a position to get the win. “We got the first goal of the last quarter and there we go.” Mitchell Johnson kicked five goals for the Sharks, while Clayton Bonello kicked three goals. Jack Young, Sean Hetherington and Johnson were named best. Fox said the return of Hetherington had made a huge difference for them. “He provides really strong on field direction for the game plan that we wanted to play.” The win was the Sharks fourth for the season and moves them up to eighth on the ladder.

They finish the season against bottom side East Keilor this Saturday. Fox said their first season back up in division 1 had been a good learning year. “The speed is faster than division 2 and the size of the bodies are different,” he said. “You have to maintain concentration for longer periods of time. “We’ve had a really long injury list and had less wins than we would have liked. “The upside is that we have found some footballers and guys have gotten opportunities, multiple games.” Fox said they wouldn’t be taking East Keilor lightly in the final round as it aims for its first win of the season. The Sharks have advertised the coaching role under the club constitution. Fox said he would speak to the club about coaching on during the week. “We have a job to finish off first.” In division 2, the Sunbury Kangaroos finals hopes came to an end with a loss against Hadfield, while East Sunbury lost to Roxburgh Park.

Rupertswood’s Rhys Berry and Gisborne’s Brianna Woodburn have been selected in the Victorian Country Cricket League teams of the year for 2025-26. Berry was named in the men’s team, while Woodburn, who was crowned the Gisborne and District Cricket Association’s best women’s player, was named captain of the VCCL women’s team of the year.

FV Sunbury United’s promotion hopes took a hit on Saturday in the FV state league 3 north-west competition. Playing Epping City in a catch up match, Sunbury opened the scoring in the 27th minute through Damian Rastocic. Epping was able to score four second half goals to seal a 4-1 win. Sunbury now sits in fourth spot, one point behind second placed Dallas City. Balmoral sits eight points further ahead on top. Sunbury faces Fawkner this Saturday, which has slipped down the ladder in recent weeks after the midseason departures of a number of players. Gisborne had a bye in FV state league 7 north-west. FOR MORE SPORT VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Tuesday, 11 August, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 23

11, AUGUST, 2026

Jets difficult season

Sharks stand up

Tigers’ granny hope By Tara Murray Lancefield is through to its fi rst Riddell District Football League women’s grand fi nal. After narrowly missing out last season, the Tigers made sure they would be there in the fi nal game of the season. The Tigers had a big win against Riddell in the preliminary fi nal to secure their spot in the decider. “It’s amazing and we’re really happy about it,” coach Cash Ferguson said. “We felt like 12 months ago we didn’t achieve what we wanted, we thought we deserved to be there last year. “It’s an amazing thing for the girls so early in the existence of the program.” The Tigers hosted Riddell in the preliminary fi nal on Saturday night. At half time, the Tigers led 48-0 with one foot into the grand fi nal. The Tigers got the fi rst goal of the third quarter, before the match ended early due to Riddell not having enough numbers to take the field. Ferguson said you never want to win like that, but a win is a win. “Riddell only had 14 players and in the RDFNL manual in fi nals you don’t have to worry about the equalisation rule. “Once you get below 12 players, it’s an automatic forfeit and that happened five minutes into the third quarter.” Alice Bromley and Sarah Turner kicked two goals each for the Tigers. Bromley along with her sister Lilly Bromley and Molly Libardi were named the Tigers best.

Ferguson said 90 to 95 per cent of the playing group would be playing in their fi rst senior grand fi nal this Saturday. The test is a big one as they face Macedon on Saturday at Tony Clarke Reserve at 5pm. The Cats, who had the week off after fi nishing on top, are going for a third straight premiership. The last time the two teams met was the fi nal round of the season when the Cats won by 70 points. They have not lost since the 2023 grand fi nal, which was in the fi rst season of the competition. Ferguson said they would embrace the underdog status. “We’ll try and keep it structured and relaxed,” he said. “We won’t try and do anything unfamiliar and it’ll be business as usual. “It’s nice to have the underdog tag. In fi nals footy anything can happen and you can’t take it for granted.” It was a big weekend for the Tigers, with three teams in preliminary fi nal action. The under-17 B boys had led all day before losing by three points to the Gisborne Giants. The Tigers under-15 C team won through to the grand fi nal as it beat Eynesbury. Meanwhile in the youth girls competition, the Sunbury Kangaroos won through to face Macedon in the grand fi nal. Riddells Creek beat Melton South to secure a spot against the Kangaroos in the grand fi nal.

Melissa Grant and Sarah Turner celebrate a goal. (Ties Urie) 569969_05

Bombers looking to build as they head into the finals By Tara Murray It will be a case of dejà vu for Riddell as it prepares to face Melton South two weeks in a row in the Riddell District Football League. The Bombers will fi nish their regular season against the Panthers before heading into the fi nals the following week. Following Saturday’s results, the Bombers and Panthers will fi nish fourth and fi fth, but the order can change, no matter the result in the fi nal round. It means they will then play in an elimination fi nal to kick off fi nals. Bombers’ coach Matt Darby said it was a weird situation to face a side two weeks in a row. “You don’t take it easy as you don’t want to play with form coming into fi nals,” he said. “You only rest guys if they’re injured. “We’ll take it like a normal game I would say.” The Bombers enter the fi nal round of the season on the back of a strong

performance against Romsey. Darby said for the most part they were happy with the performance in the 22.8 (146)-13.10 (88) win. “It was good to get back on the winners list and kick off the lead up to fi nals in a good way,” he said. “We played some good footy for three quarters before we took our foot off the pedal in the last quarter. “Romsey got on top late. I said to them [the Riddell players] against the top teams that you need to play out the four quarters.” Mike Gray kicked seven goals in a best on ground performance for the Bombers. Nathan Hrovat and Callum Williamson were other standouts for the Bombers. Corey Pertzel and Jack Jedwab were both good for Romsey in the loss. Darby said there could potentially be two players come back into the side in the fi nal round if they pass fitness tests. He said they’d had some injuries and sore guys the last few weeks but hoped they would get a few back for fi nals. The coach, though, will spend the rest

of the season on the sidelines after having surgery for an injury sustained in the loss to the Gisborne Giants.” In other matches, Macedon sealed third spot on the ladder as it beat Melton South at Tony Clarke Reserve. After an even fi rst quarter on the scoreboard, the Cats kicked away to take control of the game, eventually winning, 18.10 (118)-12.6 (78). Leigh Brennan, Sam Indian and Blake Watson kicked three goals each for the Cats. Watson was named best on ground. The Cats will face Kyneton in the fi rst week of the fi nals after the Tigers lost to Wallan on Saturday, 17.25 (127)-7.3 (45). Elsewhere, Melton Centrals beat Lancefield and Diggers Rest beat the Gisborne Giants.

Mike Gray. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 567707_08