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22 SEPTEMBER, 2026

Decade of roadside neglect For 10 years, a roadside noxious weed has been left to fester on Lancefield’s Rochford Road. With the weeds now up to two metres high, the Deep Creek Landcare Group is calling for the state government to address the gorse infestation on the state-managed road.  Story: Page 8

Deep Creek Landcare Group project manager Robin Ford and president Phil Severs at Rochford Road, where the gorse is taller than them (Damjan Janevski) 578770 01

Rumour confirmed By Georgia Tacey Sunbury’s worst kept secret has been confirmed: The Block is coming to town. Three of Jacksons Hill’s heritage buildings will be transformed into housing for The Block 2027. Channel Nine has acquired three buildings at the site of the former Sunbury Asylum, and said The Block is taking on its “most ambitious project yet”. Sunbury MP Josh Bull welcomed the announcement and said it will kickstart the next phase of the Jacksons Hill Masterplan, revitalising this site and boosting local tourism. “For many years, you and I have been working hard to secure the future and protect heritage buildings at Jacksons Hill

– and now we have taken another huge step forward in doing just that,” he said. “I know people may be concerned about what this will mean for the future of the site. “However, as it currently stands, these beautiful buildings are simply destined to deteriorate beyond repair – taking with them the important history, and legacy they represent.” The Jacksons Hill site is included Victorian Heritage Register and is of historical significance to the State of Victoria. Mr Bull said Channel Nine and The Block are required to obtain approval from Heritage Victoria for all proposed works and activities, safeguarding the site’s heritage values, in three buildings which have been vacant, empty and deteriorating since 2010.

“Put simply, this means that these heritage buildings will be refurbished under strict supervision from Heritage Victoria, rather than being demolished,” he said. Channel Nine said Scott Cam and Shelley Craft will return to co-host, and will challenge five new teams to “preserve and revitalise these landmark buildings while transforming them into The Block’s signature high-quality and aspirational family homes”. In June, the state government opened community engagement on the Hume Planning Scheme Amendment to turn the site into a mixed use zone following the government declaring the buildings surplus to its needs. The proposal initially raised concerns

from Hume council, who requested the planning minister strengthen the amendment to ensure any future developments align with the master plan, keeping heritage protection, creativity, learning and community at heart. Jacksons Hill was built over 170 years ago, first starting as an industrial school before becoming a psychiatric asylum. Most recently, it served as the Victoria University Sunbury Campus. The site is also currently home to the recently opened Artrise, as well as Sunbury Primary School and Sunbury Macedon Ranges Specialist School. The heritage permit application will be publicly advertised later this month, with submissions opening on the project as well.

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End industrial action: Hume By Georgia Tacey Hume council has called for industrial action mounted by some staff to end, saying residents are bearing the brunt of the prolonged pay dispute. Partial work bans disrupted red-bin waste collection across Hume in September, amid ongoing industrial action by some council workers represented by the Australian Services Union (ASU). Council workers have been engaging in protected industrial action throughout 2026 as the union works to secure a pay rise for its members. Mayor Carly Moore acknowledged that residents are frustrated by uncollected bins and repeated service interruptions and called for the bans to end. “Residents should not be caught in the middle of ongoing industrial action,” she

said. “Essential community services must not be used as bargaining tools.” Hume employees voted to participate in multi-employer bargaining with the ASU in 2025. Since March, council has been negotiating alongside seven other councils and four unions to reach a new enterprise agreement. Council said it has negotiated in good faith throughout this process and had provided a 2.5 per cent pay increase in November 2025 while bargaining discussions continued. The ASU has previously said members want a 10 per cent pay increase. “Hume residents are carrying a disproportionate share of the impact. Of the eight councils involved in these negotiations, Hume is one of only three that continues

to directly employ its red-bin collection workforce,” Cr Moore said. “As a result, industrial action affecting waste collection services has had a particularly significant impact on Hume households, despite this being a dispute involving multiple councils. “It is unacceptable that Hume residents continue to carry a disproportionate share of the burden from a dispute that extends well beyond our municipality. “Residents should not be experiencing prolonged service disruptions while bargaining continues, particularly when council has demonstrated its commitment to reaching an agreement through ongoing negotiations and support for employees during the process.” Council said all councillors support retaining the state government’s rate cap – which the ASU has previously called to be

reformed – to help protect residents from further cost pressures and ensure council services remain financially sustainable. “The time has come to put residents first,” Cr Moore said. “We call on the ASU and all parties involved to bring this disruption to an end and focus on reaching an agreement through the bargaining process. “Our employees deserve certainty. Our residents deserve reliable services. Council remains committed to achieving both and securing an outcome that is fair, affordable and sustainable for the long term.” ASU Victoria and Tasmania branch secretary Tash Wark said council will need to put an offer on the table to end the bans. “They could end industrial action immediately, all they’ve got to do is put an offer to workers that pays them what they’re worth,” she said.

Hume’s Christmas wish for community spirit

Christine Craik and Vicki Spedding are looking for donations to help put on Darraweit Guim’s Christmas Carols. (Damjan Janevski). 577100 01

Keep the carols ringing in Darraweit Guim Darraweit Guim residents Christine Craik and Vicki Spedding are needing a bit of extra help to spread some local Christmas cheer. Ms Spedding, who helps organise the Darraweit Guim DIY Christmas Carols along with Ms Craik, said they are currently looking for donations from local businesses and the community to keep attendance free at the beloved event. “We try to keep the Christmas carols free for attendees because it’s a communi-

ty building exercise, we don’t want to exclude anybody who might want to join us,” Ms Spedding said. She said the event costs around $6000 to run, with the community donations making up a third of the cost alongside grants. “Last year, we were unable to cover all the costs with the grant applications we were able to attract,” she said. The annual ‘do it yourself’ carols is organised by community locals, with the local school, CFA, church and communi-

ty members taking the stage to sing some festive tunes. “It’s just us getting together and entertaining each other,” Ms Spedding said. She said the carols, which will be held on Saturday 5 December in Darraweit Guim, help bring the community together and bring festive cheer to the small hamlet. To donate, you can contact Ms Spedding, with any donations to be acknowledged on the night. Details: Vicki Spedding, 0422 988 772

More room for dogs to roam after council approves new order Dog owners will have more freedom to let their pets off leash under new rules approved by Macedon Ranges council. Councillors endorsed the new Dog and Cat Order at their August meeting following community consultation. The order includes expanded off-leash access at the Campaspe River Walk in Kyneton. The designated off-leash section of the walk will be extended from Burton Avenue to Langley Street, while the morning off-

leash period will start an hour earlier, at 6.30am instead of 7.30am. Council received requests for an additional afternoon off-leash period at the Campaspe River Walk, but officers did not recommend the change. Woodend Racecourse Reserve Cross Country Area will remain a designated offleash area, but dogs are only permitted off leash when horses are not present in the reserve.

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Councillor Kate Kendall also successfully moved an additional recommendation for key themes raised during consultation to be considered as part of the next council budget process. These included more signage and education, poo bag dispensers and bins, as well as dedicated fenced dog parks. Cr Kendall said better resourcing would be crucial to making the new order work. The new Dog and Cat Order to take effect from 1 October.

Christmas has come early to Hume council, with councillors wrapping up plans for the city’s festive decorations while calling for a little more community magic. Councillors voted at their 14 September meeting to award a three-year contract for the supply, installation and storage of Hume’s Christmas decorations. But Cr Ally Watson wants to deck the halls a little differently from 2027, calling for greater community involvement in the city’s Christmas celebrations. Her recommendation will see council officers investigate ways to supplement the existing Christmas in Hume program with community-led initiatives, including locally designed decorations, installations by local artists, school and community group projects and festive activations tailored to individual neighbourhoods. Cr Watson said she believed there was an opportunity to broaden the festive spirit beyond council’s traditional approach. “Some of the most memorable Christmas decorations are not necessarily the most expensive,” Cr Watson said. “Often they are the ones that bring communities together and create a genuine sense of ownership and pride. “Whether it is schools creating decorations, local artists contributing installations, community groups participating in festive projects, or traders associations helping activate our local centres.” Cr Jarrod Bell backed the idea, suggesting Hume take a leaf out of its northern neighbour Macedon Ranges council’s Christmas carol book. “I don’t believe Macedon Ranges [council] spends a single dollar on their Christmas program or if they do, it’s not a program like what we do,” he said. “It’s more closely aligned to the initiative that Cr Watson is speaking to, where you know you drive through Riddells Creek and it’s along the sides of the main road of the main road … these beautiful Christmas trees decorated by the local primary school, the men’s shed, the Montessori school.” He said Hume’s Christmas decorations budget had “doubled, doubled again, and then doubled again” during his time on council.

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Bonanno’s state election bid By Georgia Tacey Macedon Ranges councillor Dom Bonanno will stand as an independent candidate for the seat of Macedon. In a statement, Mr Bonanno said he will also take leave from council as he pursues his candidacy. “As a serving councillor, I take my existing responsibilities to the community seriously and the importance of maintaining a clear separation between my council duties and my activities as a state election candidate,” he said. “While I am not legally required to take leave from council to contest the state

election, I intend to seek leave for an appropriate period during the campaign. “I do not believe it would be appropriate for me to continue receiving a councillor allowance while devoting a significant amount of my time and attention to campaigning for state parliament.” Mr Bonanno said residents are entitled to expect respect from the public office. “For me, this comes down to a simple principle: just because you can do something doesn’t necessarily mean you should,” he said. “Seeking unpaid leave also provides a clear separation between my responsibilities as a councillor and my activities as a

candidate. “I believe that is the appropriate and transparent way for me to conduct this campaign. “The decision to stand for state parliament is not one I have made lightly. “It is a significant commitment, not only for me but for my family, and one we have discussed and considered carefully together. Ultimately, however, the decision to put myself forward is mine.” Mr Bonanno said he will work with council to ensure arrangements for his leave are handled and that residents will have clarity around his responsibilities during his absence.

He also said that further details about his candidacy and the issues he intends to raise during his campaign will be announced soon. Mr Bonanno is the second Macedon Ranges councillor to announce their state candidacy bid, with Kate Kendall currently contesting the seat for the Liberals. Star Weekly understands Ms Kendall will also be taking unpaid leave in the lead up to the election, following her resignation as mayor in July. Mr Bonanno previously stood for the seat of Macedon for the Liberals in the 2022 state election.

Central Highlands Rural Health finalist in awards

Hesket-Kerrie Fire Brigade firefighters with captain Daniel Bird at the front. (Damjan Jnaevski). 578507 01

Brigade marks six decades of service Hesket-Kerrie Fire Brigade is celebrating 60 years of fire fighting and volunteering in the Macedon Ranges. Brigade community safety coordinator Jacky Kelly said the brigade, which looks after the communities of Hesket, Kerrie, Cherokee and Rochford, started out to address local needs. “In 1966 after a campfire at Hanging Rock impacted the area, neighbours formed the brigade with wetted bags, homemade beaters and a 100 gallon trailer with a hand pump,” she said.

“We’ve now grown in 2026 to having two stations, two tankers, ultralight, quick fill trailer, nearly 300,000 litres of fire fighting water and 27 dedicated volunteers responding to natural disasters in Victoria.” To commemorate the milestone, the brigade has something special planned. “To celebrate our community’s brigade 60 years we are putting on our Barbie at the Brigade with displays, plenty of activities planned, some prizes and free food, including vegetarian and gluten free options,” Ms Kelly said.

“All are welcome, so hope to see you at our Hesket fire station.” The celebration will be held on 15 November from 11am at the Hesket station, on the corner of Romsey Road and Kings Lane, Hesket. The brigade also welcomes anyone from the area with old photos or similar to add to its history collection, or anyone who would like to reach out about fire awareness or volunteering, to contact the brigade. Details: hesketkerriecfa@gmail.com

Central Highlands Rural Health (CHRH) has been named a finalist in the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards, in the Premier’s Small Health Service of the Year category. This marks the fourth consecutive year CHRH has been recognised as a finalist, having previously been shortlisted in 2023, 2024 and 2025. The organisation said the ongoing recognition reflects its commitment to delivering safe, personal, connected and right care across its communities. In 2024, CHRH won the award for Excellence in Public Sector Residential Aged Care Services and in 2017 won the award for Small Health Service of the Year (as Kyneton District Health Service). The Premier’s Small Health Service of the Year category celebrates excellence in leadership, governance, innovation and service delivery across Victoria’s public health sector. CHRH chief executive Maree Cuddihy said the recognition belongs to every member of the organisation. “To be recognised as a finalist for the fourth year in a row is an incredible achievement and a testament to the dedication, professionalism and compassion of our people,” Ms Cuddihy said. Winners will be announced at the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards Gala Night in October.

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Dumper bogged to busted The owner of a truck that got bogged less than 50 metres from a mound of illegally dumped demolition waste on Oaklands Road has been fined following a social media spectacle. In scenes that went viral in August, a man was caught waiting helplessly beside the bogged truck, with photos shared across social media and by Hume councillor Naim Kurt. Hume council, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria arrived on the scene at Oaklands Road in Bulla, where EPA officers measured the waste

pile and found it was the same size as the skip bin on the back of the bogged truck. They said further inspection showed scraps of material matched the pile that were still in the bin. But despite the evidence, the man denied he or the vehicle had any connection to the dumping. “He insisted he hadn’t even been driving,” EPA north metropolitan regional manager Steve Riley said. “He told us his boss just happened to pull the truck over at that spot because he was having leg cramps, before mysteriously leaving in an Uber.

“While it was a creative explanation, it was not a convincing one. “We have fined the registered owner of the truck and ordered them to clean up the waste. If they don’t comply, they will face further fines and enforcement actions.” Mr Riley said under Victorian law, all waste must be taken to a place licensed to safely handle it. “The Illegal Waste Dumping Taskforce has zero tolerance for this behaviour and is working hard with councils and partner agencies to put a stop to it,” he said. The truck’s owner has been fined $2091

for unlawful deposit of waste under Section 115 of the Environment Protection Act. They were given a Waste Abatement Notice requiring them to take the waste to a facility licensed to receive it. Mr Riley thanked the members of the public who reported the bogged truck, as well the Hume and NHVR representatives who worked alongside EPA authorised officers. “Illegal dumping is too big a problem for any one regulator or agency to solve on its own, but working together we can make a huge difference,” he said.

More time teaching

Sunbury Macedon Ranges Specialist School (Bullengarook Campus) students(Damjan Janevski). 572496_04

Mystery and monsters take to the stage Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School’s Bullengarook students have showcased their talents during the school production. The school runs its production every two years, with this year’s performance a mashup between Scooby Doo’s Mystery Gang and Ghostbusters, with a special Bullengarook twist, Lower Bullengarook sub-school leader Darcy Nolan said. “We actually get the chance to write our own productions, and Lori [Nichols] is a bit of a whiz and writes them all,” he said.

“It helps us create roles for our students as well, and we can make it as long or as short, with as many parts or as few parts as required based on student engagement and interest.” As the school’s production director, Ms Nichols can tailor each role to the students needs. “It means that if there’s one student who can really cope with one line, I can make a part for that one student, or I can make it bigger for a student who can handle or wants a bigger responsibility,” she said.

Death doubles down on Clarkefield

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4 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2026

For this year’s mashup production, the cast features the five Mystery Gang Members and four Ghostbusters, as well as the addition of a student playing Slime. Mr Nolan said Bullengarook locals also got involved with the performance, with around a cast of 50 taking part between on and off stage. The students took to Macedon’s Mountview Theatre in September, performing sold out shows. “We’re super proud of them,” Mr Nolan said.

Macedon Ranges schools are set to benefit from a new central water and sanitation program. Darraweit Guim, Hesket, Bolinda, Newham and Woodend primary schools and Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School are all set to benefit from the program which aims to give back time to teachers. Currently, not every school has access to public water or sewer mains, with the new program aiming to prevent teachers and principals from performing time-consuming administrative work like testing and treating drinking water and desludging wastewater management systems. Instead, schools will no longer be responsible for making sure their water systems are maintained under the new program, as water maintenance at local schools will be managed centrally by the Victorian School Building Authority. Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said the program would free up more time for local teachers to focus on their students. “We’re lightening the administrative burden on our teachers and principals, giving them more time to teach local kids,” she said. Water minister Michela Settle said the new program aimed to provide safer drinking water and water security for local schools. “This program is strengthening the protections around drinking water and giving communities greater certainty that their water is safer,” Ms Settle said. The safer drinking water program is set to be fully implemented by 2028.

Macedon Labor candidate Annette Death has reaffirmed her opposition to the proposed Clarkefield development, saying the 2000-home project does not meet the community’s current needs. Her comments come after the Coalition committed to changing the decision-making process for the proposal, which is currently before the planning minister. “I raised the community’s concerns about the Clarkefield development directly with the minister for planning, emphasising the need for development to be accompanied by the services, infrastructure and amenities required to support a growing population,” she said. “This proposal doesn’t meet the current needs of our communities.” Ms Death said the shire’s immediate strategic planning priorities should instead be the Romsey and Gisborne structure plans. “These plans provide an opportunity to accommodate future housing demand

while ensuring development is aligned with the long-term needs of the local community,” she said. Council has also acknowledged the Liberal’s election commitment, with mayor Cassy Borthwick saying council’s position on the Clarkefield proposal remains unchanged. Cr Borthwick said any decision should follow a transparent, robust and evidence-based planning process. “Council has consistently advocated for an independent assessment of the proposal and believes further assessment, independent review and greater clarity are required before any decision is made,” she said. Liberal candidate Kate Kendall, who is also a Macedon Ranges councillor, said if elected to government, her party would return the decision-making process for the proposal to council rather than leave it with the state government.

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Houdini hit for third time By Jack O’shea-Ayres Residents in Diggers Rest have just about had enough after a monument honouring Australia’ first powered flight by American escapist and magician Harry Houdini was recently destroyed for the third time in almost a year. The historic plaque was first established in Diggers Rest with help from the local Lions Club in 1990, at the site where Houdini took to the skies 80 years prior in 1910. It was previously destroyed in March last year, and then again in November after being rebuilt by Melton council. Residents believe the damage is the cause of vandals, while evidence of tyre marks on the road lead others to believe the damage is the result of hooning in the area. Diggers Rest resident David O’Connor said he was fed up with continuing to find the monument damaged, in ruins, or otherwise destroyed. He’s now calling on council to commit to a practical long-term solution to better protect the historic monument from further damage. “For me, the issue is about much more than repairing the recent damage,” Mr O’Connor explained. “The monument has a long community history and represents the efforts of local people who wanted to ensure Diggers Rest’s connection with Houdini was recognised and preserved. “After three incidents, it would seem appropriate that its restoration be accompanied by a practical long-term solution

The vandalised Houdini monument. (Valerius R. Boenawan). 577635 07

Diggers Rest resident David O’Connor and Melton Historical Society secretary Deb Slattery with the vandalised Houdini monument. (Valerius R. Boenawan). 577635 03

to better protect it from further damage.” A Melton council spokesperson said council was made aware of the most recent damage and is already working to restore it. The spokesperson said the previous installation of protective bollards had failed to prevent damage to the monument. “This is the third incident of significant

damage to the monument in less than two years, despite the installation of protective bollards following previous incidents,“ the spokesperson said. The spokesperson told Star Weekly council believed the most recent assault on the monument was caused by a vehicle and that it was reviewing the monument’s design in an aim to reduce the risk

of further damage, while also preserving the monument’s historical significance. Mr O’Connor said the recent damage provided an opportunity to consider how the important piece of Diggers Rest history could be better protected. “I believe the recent damage provides an opportunity not simply to restore what was there, but to consider how this important piece of Diggers Rest history can be better protected, interpreted and enjoyed by the community into the future,” Mr O’Connor said. He also said the local community held a particular sentiment to the monument. “This monument was created because the community believed the Houdini story was worth preserving,” Mr O’Connor said. “More than 35 years later, our responsibility isn’t simply to repair it, it’s to make sure we preserve that community legacy and give the site a future.”

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BEHIND THE NEWS

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Macedon Ranges council manager econmic development and visitor economy Lydia Sorensen and strategic planning and environment heritage planner Dannielle Orr at the Malmsbury Viaduct. 577657 06

Digging into our golden past After decades of planning and advocating, the bid for World Heritage status is inching closer for the Victorian Goldfields. With 15 Victorian councils advocating for the project, there’s golden stories found all over the state, including right in the Macedon Ranges’ backyard. Georgia Tacey caught up with Macedon Ranges council’s manager economic development and visitor economy Lydia Sorenson and strategic planning and environment heritage planner Dr Dannielle Orr to discover the region’s ties to the goldfields and what World Heritage status will mean for the Macedon Ranges community.

en years ago, a golden opportunity was presented to Macedon Ranges council. A chance for some lesser known stories to be told, and the opportunity to see the region’s rich history on the world stage. Macedon Ranges alongside Greater Bendigo, Ballarat, Moorabool, Hepburn, Mount Alexander, Ararat, Baw Baw, Golden Plains, Campaspe, Central Goldfields, Indigo, Loddon, Northern Grampians and Pyrenees councils joined forces in the fight to recognise the stories, communities and regions that come from the Victorian Goldfields. The 15 councils, alongside regional organisations, academia and the private sector are all part of the wider push that hopes to see the Victorian Goldfields receive World Heritage status. Council became involved with the project in 2016, with the collaborative bid between the councils officially commencing in 2019. In 2025, the green light was given to the project by the federal government to seek World Heritage Listing, with its successful inclusion on Australia’s UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. “Each of the 15 local governments that are involved – Macedon being one – all have a story to tell,” Macedon Ranges council’s strategic planning and environment heritage planner, Dr Dannielle Orr, said. Dr Orr has been part of the goldfields bid long before Macedon Ranges has. She previously worked at Greater Bendigo council, which along with Ballarat, have spearheaded the project, with both areas holding deep ties to the goldrush era. But Dr Orr said there is plenty of goldrush history steeped deep into the Macedon Ranges. “[The bid] will have implications and benefits for the whole shire, and there are different aspects of the story represented at

different places,” she said. “There will be stories all over Macedon that will actually contribute to the wider bid.” One of the greatest stories of goldfields in the Macedon Ranges is the story of the water for the gold, which can still be seen today at the Malmsbury Reservoir. “The Coliban Water Supply System was an engineering structure that was built in the late 1800s, and it was built to take water from Malmsbury to Bendigo,” Dr Orr said. First conceived in 1862 by Joseph Brady, the water supply system built from 1866 is still largely in operation today. The technological accomplishment that helped establish civil engineering as a profession and industry and delivered water through a dry landscape over 100km long. “You can still see it at Malmsbury … you can still go and see the whole heritage in the landscape today,” Dr Orr said. “It’s brilliant, brilliant engineering, 100 and more years on.” While Malmsbury’s historic significance to the goldfields isn’t one of the six spots currently listed on the tentative list, it is noted in the World Heritage Listing. But Malmsbury isn’t the only part of the shire with goldrush roots. “The whole of the shire did contribute to the goldfields in different ways,” Dr Orr said. “You know, you look at things like the Calder Freeway that’s built on the old pathways that the goldfields travellers would have taken, that’s a major route through our shire that has history and a heritage that goes back to those days. “Kyneton developed as the service centre to help travellers along the way.” Alongside Kyneton, Lancefield and Romsey became gateways for services to travellers to the goldfields.

6 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2026

Lydia Sorensen and Dannielle Orr at the Malmsbury Reservoir, where you can still see the history of the goldrush today. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 578880 02

Lancefield, Lauriston, Malmsbury and Romsey also served as the grazing and farming areas that grew and manufactured food for the goldfields, while the Ranges’ Caroline Chisholm shelters became a place for women and children who came to join their diggers. There are the stories from the Traditional Owners of this Country from the goldrush. The Ranges even had its own gold mining rush in Black Forest, Bullengarook, Lauriston, Macedon and Malmsbury. “Woodend had a lot of bush ranges, for instance, because the gold that was collected from the goldfields, would travel back down to Melbourne to get sold in the Melbourne market, and going through the Black Forest was a bit of a hairy experience,” Dr Orr said. “The beauty of the listing is that it’s an opportunity for these communities to actually tell their stories, because there are so many different aspects to this heritage, and it’s really how we came to be here today, and how we developed as a state really, and then as a nation today. “The goldfields’ wealth really built Australia as a nation.”

Now, it’s almost time to see if the advocacy of the councils’ and the bid team has paid off. “Next year is the confirmation of the short listing,” council economic development and visitor economy manager Lydia Sorenson said. “We’ll know next year whether we are actually going for this World Heritage Bid … whether the 15 councils along with the bid team will be going forward.” The councils, she said, will need to work simultaneously together to give this opportunity the best possible shot at success, targeting the community. “We already know that our visitor economy is quite strong, but it’s strong in a different way, it’s not strong in the historical sense,” Ms Sorenson said. “We’re known as a shire that’s beautiful, it’s about the environment, it’s about coming here for an experience. “And I think that’s what we’re leveraging is that we can actually add to that visitor [experience].” As research and consultation continues, it’s still only just the beginning for this long-standing project, but Dr Orr remains hopeful that we will see it eventuate. “We’ve got a really, really good chance,” Dr Orr said. “It’s really strong, heritage wise, tourism and economic development wise, everybody has worked really hard together collaboratively to get the bid up this time. “This case has been built very solidly from day one, and everyone has joined together to work together and I think that means we will be successful.” Council and the bid team will host an information session at the Malmsbury Town Hall on Tuesday 20 October from 5pm for the community to hear more about the project. Details: https://tinyurl.com/3hknhm4s

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Immunisation sessions Macedon Ranges council provides free immunisations as set out by the National Immunisation Program. When you attend a council immunisation session you should bring your child’s health book and Medicare details. All children and adults are required to remain at the immunisation venue for at least 15 minutes after receiving any vaccination. An evening immunisation session will be held in Gisborne on Thursday 24 September from 4pm to 6pm at the Manna Gum Family and Children’s Centre.

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EDITORIAL

Head of Junior School Matt Carroll with student scarecrow creators (back) Casey, Edison, Finley, Thomas, (front) Matilda, Orla, Isla, Riley and Daylah. (Supplied)

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School’s scarecrows success

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Year nine students from Sacred Heart College have put their creativity and teamwork on display, building a unique scarecrow installation for the Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival. The entry ‘School Day Scarecrows’, sponsored by Kyneton on Riverside, was also crowned the winner of the business category. The project, involving students from the school’s Learning Initiating, Networking and Connecting for Success (LINCS) program, gave them the opportunity to develop practical skills while working together towards a shared goal. Despite the student’s busy schedule, including both year nine ski camps in the weeks leading up to installation, students embraced the challenge and successfully completed the display on time.

Students designed the scarecrow display with help from the college’s Wood Technology staff to create the bus and chapel, as well as received guidance from the school’s Property Manager during the installation process. Throughout the Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival, the Scarecrow Trail involves local schools, businesses, community groups and individuals to design their very own scarecrow display. This year, the festival featured over 50 scarecrows across town. Other winners included Hesket Primary School with their scarecrow ‘Gorgie Crow’ Keefe’, and the people’s choice went to PRD Kyneton for ‘Daffy Parton’. Good Start Early Learning’s ‘Betty Bloom and the 4 Bulbs’ and Kyneton CFA’s ‘Bernie Straws’ were both highly commended.

Romsey Police are seeking information from the community regarding the theft of a tip truck and John Deere bobcat from a property on Aungiers Lane, Darraweit Guim, between 31 August and 10 September. Police are appealing for anyone who may have seen any suspicious vehicles or people in the area during this time or who have CCTV, dashcam or security footage that may assist the investigation. Police are also appealing or anyone who may have seen the stolen tip truck or bobcat being transported or used, or any information that may assist in identifying those involved or locating the stolen property. If you have any information that could assist police, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report information online. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Time to weed it out Deep Creek Landcare Group project manager Robin Ford and president Phil Severs with the gorse along Rochford Road. (Damjan Janevski) 578770 05

By Georgia Tacey

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Tuesday 29 September 2026 10.30am – 3.00pm Hume Global Learning Centre, Craigieburn

Let us know you’re coming Scan the QR code or visit byb.org.au 12898948-AM37-26

8 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2026

Deep Creek Landcare Group is calling for action to address a roadside noxious weed issue the group says has been left to fester for 10 years. Landcare Project manager Robin Ford said the group has repeatedly called for action to address a significant gorse infestation growing roadside on Rochford Road between Newham and Lancefield. Deep Creek Landcare Group, which covers Lancefield, Romsey and Monegeetta, has worked in conjunction with other nearby Landcare groups in an attempt to address the issue, but as Rochford Road is a state-managed road, the groups have faced significant hurdles. “There used to be vegetation officers that we could talk to, but at this point, nothing’s ever happened, and now it’s also very difficult to find anyone to communicate with,“ Mr Ford said. The gorse along Rochford Road closer to Lancefield is now close to two metres

high, encroaching on the road verge in one section, but the Landcare group cannot undertake works to address the issue on the state managed road. “We find as a group that dealing with [Macedon Ranges] council is a lot easier process with the council-managed roads,” Mr Ford said. “They come and try to do some work, so they’re sort of holding the weeds at bay and making some progress where the equivalent, Transport Victoria, is just letting it run rampant and the program becomes exponentially worse. “There’s a fire hazard there, particularly with gorse, it’s a flammable plant and in the wrong conditions that would make for a dangerous situation on that road, “We could argue there’s safety issues because you can’t see into the road verge. The group has called on the state government to address the ongoing issue to manage the state-registered weed. The Department of Transport and Planning was contacted for comment.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Combined Probus Club of Sunbury members celebrating 50 years of Probus (Pics: Supplied).

NEWS

Members dressed in blue and gold to celebrate.

Subury members celebrate a golden Probus milestone Combined Probus Club of Sunbury has marked 50 years of Probus in Australia with a special celebration. The club held a high tea at Club Sunbury

on Friday 11 September, with 80 club members and guests coming along to celebrate. Five past presidents of the club kept the crowd entertained with anecdotes of the

club’s history, and prizes were given out to the club member whose outfit best embodied the club’s gold and blue theme, as well as the oldest man and woman in attendance.

Club president Lorraine Harrison with the honour board.

Volunteer cookie maker Leearnie Soderstrom kept the group fed with some sweet treats.

Past club presidents Tony Creed, Richard Gibbons, Gerry Johnston, Lesley Sulley and Jo Wiegerink.

The club celebrating.

12895843-AD36-26

Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 9

NEWS

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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

24 September, 1991

24 September, 1996

19 September, 2006

20 September,2016

Community Services Minister Kay Setches has shied away from an invitation to attend the Caloola Parents Association annual general meeting.

Years of anxious waiting came to an end for Macedon residents last week with confirmation that a new freeway would be built through the Black Forest.

Sunbury Kangaroos goalkicking machine Aaron James may never play again after being suspended for four years by the Riddell District Football League Tribunal.

Mt Macedon will again be a hub for emergency services training when a remodelled Victorian Emergency Management Institute opens its doors.

Faces of the west Each week, Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing the people and events

Ava, 9, Faith, 9, and Milena, 9, with their creations. (Valerius R. Boenawan) 576610 10

in Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs.

Volunteers Trudy Shepherd and Fran Spain, are running the school holiday program at Woodend Neighbourhood House. (Damjan Janevski) 577355 05

Point Cook resident Anthony Pacheco who is fed up with constant plane noise from increased flights departing the RAAF base. (Damjan Janevski) 577470 01

Newham Primary School principal Tim Furphy with students Billy, Rhu, Hudson, Jack and Scarlett. (Damjan Janevski) 577085 04

Raquel Handley from Kalkallo Community Centre with Hume council’s waste mascot, Binjamin. (Damjan Janevski) 576117 03

10 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2026

Members of the Joseph Road Precinct Action Group and local residents at the Hopkins Street bus stop, raising concerns about pedestrian safety and the narrow pathway. (Valerius R. Boenawan) 577632 01

irs

bury 3429

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FREMANTLE DOCKERS - AFL All Work Guaranteed Major or Minor Repairs Phone 9740 8193 14 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2026

5/75 Vineyard Road, Sunbur

PUZZLES

easy

7 5 1

8 9

7 8 5

11 23

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2 13

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9 8 5 4 1 2 6 3 7 2 7 1 3 8 6 9 4 5 3 6 4 5 7 9 2 8 1 8 1 6 9 2 7 4 5 3 5 3 7 6 4 8 1 2 9 4 9 2 1 5 3 7 6 8 6 2 8 7 3 1 5 9 4 1 5 3 2 9 4 8 7 6 7 4 9 8 6 5 3 1 2

9 3 7 6 1 8 2 5 4 8 1 5 3 4 2 9 7 6 6 2 4 9 7 5 1 3 8 3 4 2 8 5 7 6 1 9 5 8 6 1 2 9 3 4 7 1 7 9 4 3 6 5 8 2 4 6 1 7 9 3 8 2 5 7 5 8 2 6 1 4 9 3 2 9 3 5 8 4 7 6 1

T E

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: 15 words: Good 22 words: Very good 30 words: Excellent

N Y

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No. 415 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

C O M B S A P A R T R E C U R A R E N A T A S T Y

17 20

26 27

No. 308

A L I B I

5 LETTERS ACHED ADULT ALIBI ALIKE AMUSE ANNUL AORTA ARCED ARISE AZURE BANAL BLARE BUTTE CAMEO CORAL EASED ETHIC FETES GREEK HALTS IDEAS INANE

4 LETTERS ATOM BOGS BURP DOES EBBS EDDY HILT LAUD LOGO SEEK SICS SNOB SOIL TEST

digit, ding, dining, dint, dirt, during, gird, girt, grid, grin, grind, grit, INTRUDING, inuring, riding, rigid, rind, ring, ruin, ruing, ruining, tiding, tiring, trig, tuning, turgid, turning, unit, uniting, untiring

7 6 8 9 3 5 4 1 2 9 4 1 6 2 8 3 5 7 2 3 5 1 4 7 6 9 8 4 8 9 5 7 1 2 3 6 1 2 6 3 8 9 5 7 4 5 7 3 2 6 4 1 8 9 6 9 2 7 5 3 8 4 1 8 5 7 4 1 2 9 6 3 3 1 4 8 9 6 7 2 5

C S

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3 LETTERS ALE ANY ASH ASK ATE DUO ERR LAB LAP LET NOW OAF OFF ORE PRO REV ROW SAT SEA TEA TEE TNT WEB YET

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

10 11

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hard

WORDFIT

13 9

No. 340

9-LETTER WORD medium

9 9 6 7

easy

5x5

9 16

Y A U B G X Z L M I N W O

5 4

9 16 17 18 19 22 23 24 27

S J D C Q F K R P V H T E

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hard

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4 5 7 8

DECODER

2 3 4

4 7 6

Attacking, as a magpie (8) Width of a circle (8) Head servant of a household (6) Partner (9) Speaker’s platform (4) Harmony (6) Land mass surrounded by water (6) Supervisors (7) Flower (9) Pigeonholed (7) Wide view (8) Keep (8) A poetic unit of three lines (6) Mature zucchini (6) Accommodations (6) Plummet (4)

1 2 3

4 6 medium

9 3

26 28 29 30 31

5 3 9 3 6 7 1 5 1 9 7 9 5 3

5 2 9

12 13 14 15 20 21 25

4 5 9

10 11

2 3

Credenza (9) German automobile manufacturer (4) Eggs (3) Formal statement about another’s character (11) Bearing (8) Reply (6) Desideratum (4) Preserved with sugar syrup (7) Gala (7) Just (4) Glossy type of glass applied to surfaces for protection (6) Poisonous (8) Reciprocal (11) Tune (3) Borough (4) Visible features of an area (9)

1 6

DOWN

5 4

ACROSS

No. 308

KORAN LUNGE NOTES OPTIC OZONE PACED PASTA PICKY PRAYS PREEN RANTS ROBOT SCARE SEEPS SHEAR SORRY SPATE SPAWN SPELL SPEWS STRAY SWELL TEETH

TITLE TOTED TOWER TRASH TWIRL

EMINENT GREATER INNARDS SERPENT

6 LETTERS ALLEYS PETTED REARED TATTLE

8 LETTERS LEVERAGE LONELIER PALATIAL PARENTAL

7 LETTERS ACCRUED EASTERN

25-09-26

QUICK QUIZ

Mission Beach is a coastal town in which Australian state?

The hongi is a traditional greeting in which country?

How many hectares are in one square kilometre?

True or false: The Rolling Stones were formed before The Beatles?

Which Netflix show set in Europe stars Lily Collins (pictured)?

Who released the classic rock-and-roll song Johnny B. Goode in 1958?

Which of these toy lines is not made by Hasbro: G.I. Joe, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles or Transformers?

The liqueur triple sec is flavoured by the peel of what type of fruit?

What second language did Queen Elizabeth II speak fluently?

10 Where in the human body is the sternum located? ANSWERS: 1. Queensland 2. New Zealand 3. 100 4. False 5. Emily in Paris 6. Chuck Berry 7. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 8. Orange 9. French 10. Chest

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

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

No. 308

S I D E B O A R D A U D I I U S A F N S W O V A T E S T I M O N I A L M L O S R S A O P R E S E N C E R E J O I N T R I M N D I C A N D I E D N E E D G R L T A N P P P A G E A N T F A I R M B D H N E T E N A M E L V E N O M O U S R L F L T R E R A I R C O R R E L A T I V E E O D L O L M V L A N D S C A P E T OW N

SUDOKU

Tuesday, 22 September, 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. MMMLandcare Join the group at its next Landcare meeting at the Macedon Community House on Tuesday 22 September from 7.30-8.30pm when representatives from Forest Fire Management will attend - via an online link - to talk about the fuel management strategy for Mt Macedon. Come along and hear about what is planned and to ask questions. No booking required. ■ mmmlandcare.org.au Movies on the Hill Movies on the Hill presents their next film on Sunday 27 September at 2pm, at Norma Richardson Hall, Woodend. Come along to an encore Q&A screening of A Fare To Remember: A London to Sydney trip in a black London cab. Not only will Betsy the Taxi be present but Betsy’s Welsh passenger, John “Mad Dog” Morgan will be there too. Tickets include a glass of wine, tea or coffee. Supporting Glen Osborne Farm, Very Special Kids. ■ michaeldillonfilms.com.au/ movies-on-the-hill-2-2/ Chamber Poets The next Chamber Poets Woodend will take place at the Woodend RSL on Saturday 10 October 1-3.30pm. Special guest poets, live music, open readings, prizes, bar and snacks. Donation $10 at the door. All welcome. ■ facebook.com/groups/ChamberPoets/ about Sunbury Blue Light Disco The next disco will be held on Friday 23 October 2026 6-8pm at Sunbury Memorial Hall with a Halloween theme - wear your best costume! Heaps of prizes to be won! Primary school age. Entry is $8. Tickets via Eventbrite. Facebook/ Instagram for more info. Volunteers are also welcome to reach out. ■ sunburybluelight@gmail.com Sunbury Art Society Join the SAS group for all things arty. The group meets on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at its new location at Artrise in Jacksons Hill from 10am-3pm. New members and beginners welcome. ■ sunburyartsociety.com Jackson’s Creek Combined Probus Club The Jackson’s Creek Combined Probus Club meets the second Monday of the month at Sunbury Bowling Club. Doors open 10am for a 10.30am start. New members welcome. We have monthly outings, lunches, speakers and much much more. ■ Marilyn, 0412 235 774 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 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.

This week’s photographer’s choice pictures is of the West Gate Bridge – captured on a bright spring day. (Damjan Janevski) 579216

■ sunburyhouse.com.au 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 7:30pm to 9:30pm. Plus Wednesdays 10am -noon. ■ sunburybc@gmail.com

idays at the Eric Boarman Stadium, Wilsons Lane, Sunbury. All skill levels welcomed. ■ sunburylbc@gmail.com Woodlands Ladies Probus Club 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

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

Scottish Country Dancing Group The Macedon Ranges Scottish Country Dancing Group meet every Thursday, 1-3pm, at Buffalo Stadium, Woodend. The dancing involves social country dancing, not the highland dancing many people think of. The group dance in sets, learning different steps and formations – no special clothes needed, just soft flat shoes. The group are a friendly group having fun and keeping fit at the same time. No partners needed, just a smile and sense of fun. ■ Lynne, 0417 331 439, or Norm, 0408 592 609

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

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

Sunbury Ladies’ Badminton Club The club plays social and competition games every Thursday morning 9.30amnoon, excluding public and school hol-

With One Voice Sunbury With One Voice Sunbury community choir is changing the world one voice at a time by providing an opportunity for

16 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2026

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. ■ sunbury@withonevoice.org.au Neighbourhood garden Become part of Sunbury’s Neighbourhood Garden and grow edible and useful plants in a social group at the Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. ■ sunburyhouse.com.au, 9740 6978 Messy Play in Sunbury Join in the Messy Play fun with this toddler-focussed program, including messy and sensory child-led play. The program runs 10–11.30am on Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays at the Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. ■ sunburyhouse.com.au, 9740 6978 Young Voices of Macedon A community choir for children of the Macedon Ranges and beyond, Young Voices of Macedon rehearses at the House of the Rock, 247 Station Road, New Gisborne. The choir has separate programs for young children aged five to eight and older children. Rehearsals assist children in developing vocal technique, part singing skills, and general musicianship, across popular, classical, folk and music theatre styles. Rehearsals run on Thursdays, from 4.15pm, with afternoon tea and play time. ■ yvmacedon.org.au

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ENTERTAINMENT

Comedy, bubbles and theatre to entertain kids at Artrise School holiday fun is coming to Artrise, with special performances booked. On Thursday 24 September, kids can enjoy the interactive STUFF Comedy Show. Designed for kids and families aged five to 10 years, this choose-your-own-adventure show features Jon and Jero who embark on an epic journey to find their missing STUFF, but they can’t do it alone. With your help these bumbling brothers will travel far and wide to get their STUFF back in this fast and fun choose-your-ownadventure for the whole family. The show will run from 11am to noon

for a high-energy hour of silly proportions combining physical comedy, big characters, improvisation, and most importantly, STUFF. On Wednesday 30 September, Dr Hubble will bring his Bubble Show, with bigger bubbles, stranger bubbles, and more bubbles you thought possible. Join Dr Hubble for a fun-filled show featuring giant bubbles, exploding bubbles and unbelievable bubble tricks that will delight children and amaze grown-ups. Fresh from sold-out performances at Perth’s Fringe World Festival, Melbourne

Docklands Children’s Festival and Adelaide Fringe, Dr Hubble’s Bubble Show is a joyful family experience that will leave audiences of all ages smiling, laughing and seeing bubbles in a whole new way. Best designed for ages three to eight, this family-fun event will be held from 10.30am to 11.30am. On Friday 2 October, come along to the Whalebone Theatre Show from 10.30am to 11.30am. Expect a spectacular adventure celebrating imagination, storytelling and the things that make us human, as you

Ruby Mae brings powerful sound to Be Bold Festival

Fun is on the menu Emma Memma is bringing her Jungle Picnic Tour to Moonee Ponds. (Supplied)

By Laura Michell What do pineapple pizza, cucumbers, elephants and pet rocks all have in common? No, this isn’t some obscure riddle; they are all the stars of some of the catchiest songs on Emma Memma’s Jungle Picnic album – the inspiration for her latest tour. Emma Watkins and her ‘Memma Mates’ will bring their Jungle Picnic fun to Moonee Ponds on Wednesday 23 September as part of the Victorian leg of a tour that began back in April. According to Watkins, it is the best – and most fun – tour yet. “I feel like we’ve developed Emma Memma over a period of about four-and-a-half years and I feel like it’s the best of everything that we’ve learned so far,” she said. “We had a beautiful tour last year of ‘Dance Island Party’ ... and then we basically kind of tried to get as much feedback as we could from children and parents about what they really loved

about the show and then we essentially refined it.” Through her shows, Watkins strives to bring together spoken language and Auslan to make the experience inclusive for the whole audience. Shows feature a dedicated Auslan interpreter while Watkins and fellow performer Elvin Lam – perhaps better known as Elvin Melvin – signing as part of the choreography. Emma Memma and Elvin Melvin also take the time during the show to go out into the audience and connect with the children – something Watkins said she receives a lot of feedback about. Among the other highlights fans can expect at the Clocktower are acrobatic skills, lots of crocodile snaps complete with “tiny little screams” and plenty of dancing – from the grandparents and parents too! “We have a song called ‘Picnic Basket Picnic Rug’ and it’s a dance for everybody in the audience. It’s quite early on in the show. It’s just a chance for everyone to dance and we kind of pick people out and it’s hilarious

step inside the mysterious ’Depository’, where memories are carefully preserved and imagination powers extraordinary machines. Created by Jens Altheimer, Whalebone blends comedy, visual theatre and inventive contraptions into a charming, thought-provoking adventure for children and adults. This show is best suited to children aged six to 12 years, with babies and younger siblings also welcome. All three shows will cost between $10 to $15. Details: hume.vic. gov.au/Things-to-do/Artrise

seeing people’s interpretation,” she said. “Mostly, I try and pick grandparents out because I think it’s a fun moment.” Having spent most of her 20s completing “the world’s best apprenticeship on how to be an entertainer” as part of the Wiggles, Watkins said beginning the Emma Memma journey was “kind of like jumping off a cliff”. “You know, Ollie [husband and producer/songwriter Oliver Brian] and I kind of said to each other, ‘If it doesn’t work in 12 months, we have to become teachers’ … so, you know, we let ourselves try it and then people just wouldn’t stop writing,“ she said. “People are invested in Emma Memma now, and now it’s just really finding a way to bring more sign language and basically just the best party ever to more children.” Emma Memma’s Jungle Picnic Tour is at the Clocktower Centre, Moonee Ponds, on 23 September for three shows: 10am (limited tickets), 12.30pm and 2.30pm. Details: https://clocktowercentre.com. au/emma-memma-jungle-picnic-tour/

Proud Wiradjuri singer-songwriter Ruby Mae will bring her distinctive sound and energetic live performance to this year’s Be Bold Festival in St Albans. Described as a “vital voice in the Australian music landscape”, Ruby has been steadily building a name for herself through a combination of honest songwriting, powerful performances and an independent approach to music. Her debut album, Baby, produced by ARIA Award winner Stephen Mowat, marked an important milestone in her career. Her singles have received airplay on Triple J and Triple M, while her music has also begun attracting attention in the United States. Ruby is particularly at home on stage, where she brings an openness and confidence to her performances. Her sound moves from the intimate songwriting of Missy Higgins to the full-bodied rock energy of Powderfinger. Since her debut, Ruby has performed at Queenscliff Music Festival, including both solo and band shows, appeared on the main stage at St Kilda Festival and supported a sold-out Emma Donovan performance. She has also sold out venues across Melbourne, helping her establish a growing and dedicated audience. Festival-goers will have the chance to see Ruby perform live when she takes to the Be Bold Main Stage at 4.15pm on Saturday 3 October. Be Bold Festival runs from 3pm to 7pm at the Bowery Theatre, St Albans Community Centre and surrounding areas.

Fringe Festival scheduled to stop at Footscray Station Artist David Jennings will be performing at Footscray Station during the upcoming Melbourne Fringe Festival, and then will be continuing on with weekly performances afterwards too. In fact, those who can’t make it to any of Wells’ three performances during the festival 1, 8 and 17 October needn’t worry at all, as they’ll surely have the chance to catch at least one of his Weekly Ticket Footscray performances between now and 2031. Yes, that’s right. Wells will be performing at Footscray

Station once a week for the next five years, just has he’s done for the last 10 years. That’s because Wells’ show Weekly Ticket Footscray is a 15-year durational performance that began in 2016 and has since made him an institution at the western suburbs’ busiest train station. Each week Wells heads into Footscray with his iconic chair and becomes ’The Artist at the Station’, improvising, dancing, talking and collaborating with commuters and other artists. For his three fringe festival performances,

Wells has arranged new collaborations with musician Moses Carr (Plastiq) and dancers Hillary Goldsmith and Arabella Frahn-Starkie (Polito). The free 90 minute shows will transform Footscray Station into performance environment as artists committed to a lifetime of improvisation and collaboration interact with audience members and commuters alike. For more information and to book, visit: https://w w w.melbournefringe.com.au/ whats-on/events/weekly-ticket-footscray

Ruby Mae. (Supplied)

Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 17

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Although she is Russianborn, what country does Elena Rybakina represent in tennis?

3. Which country did the US defeat to win the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup?

2. And who did Elena Rybakina defeat in the 2026 US Open women’s singles final?

4. Which Italian Formula One driver won the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix? 5. Where are the 2027 Pacific Games set to be held? 6. Which Hollywood actor was criticised for appearing in a controversial sports betting commercial? 7. In which movie of the Air Bud series does a dog named Buddy play American football? 8. Which Spanish professional racing cyclist won the 2026 Vuelta a España? 9. The Detroit Gems became the Minneapolis Lakers, who in turn became which NBA franchise?

Elena Rybakina

Jess Hull

12. The site of the Gabba was first used for a cricket match in which year: 1896, 1906 or 1916? 13. What is the title of controversial Olympian Raygun’s recent documentary? 14. Tennis player Mirra Andreeva is from which country? 15. Which two NFL teams played the kickoff game of the 2026 season? 16. And which two teams played the first ever NFL game held in Australia? 17. Who won the men’s singles title at the 2026 US Open? 18. And who did that player defeat? 19. Zak Butters recently announced his intention to sign with which AFL team in 2027? 20. The New Zealand Warriors hosted their first final at what venue during the 2026 NRL Finals series?

21. Which NBA team was recently fined $30 million for a salary cap scandal? 22. Australian runner Jess Hull won what medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics? 23. What sport is considered Canada’s national summer sport? 24. How old was Tiger Woods when he won his first major golf championship? 25. Where will the Wallabies play South Africa for a one-off Test on September 27?

27. What sport is being played at Gotham City Stadium when it is blown up in the 2012 film The Dark Knight Rises? 28. Which name is commonly used by football clubs to show they originally did not have a fixed home ground? 29. And which A-league club has this in their name? 30. Athletes of the Mongolian sport Bökh often move overseas and switch to what similar sport?

26. English twins Jamie and Craig Overton are set to play for which Big Bash League cricket team?

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1. Kazakhstan 2. Aryna Sabalenka 3. France 4. Kimi Antonelli 5. Tahiti 6. Sydney Sweeney 7. Air Bud: Golden Receiver (also known as Air Bud 2) 8. Enric Mas 9. Los Angeles Lakers 10. Quarterback 11. Adelaide Crows 12. 1896 13. Untold Raygun: Breaking Badly 14. Russia 15. New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks 16. Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers 17. Alexander Zverev 18. Ben Shelton 19. Western Bulldogs 20. Eden Park 21. Los Angeles Clippers 22. Silver 23. Lacrosse 24. 21 25. Perth (Optus Stadium) 26. Melbourne Stars 27. American Football 28. Wanderers 29. Western Sydney Wanderers 30. Sumo wrestling

2509

10. What position does Melbourne's Isaac Woodhouse play for California’s Bakersfield College football team?

11. Zac Bailey officially re-signed with the Brisbane Lions, ending speculation he would move to which other club?

Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 19

Hilux is no longer low rent By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring The latest and ninth generation Toyota Hilux arrived late last year. Just like Toyota’s other models it is available with a hybrid powertrain, but not just any old hybrid – this one’s a diesel hybrid. That’s a step in the right direction as is the fully electric version which is now available, soon to be joined by a hydrogen-powered fuel cell model – we kid you not. The world is changing and the Hilux is changing along with it. It has to or die. Our test vehicle, the 4x4 SR double cab 48-volt mild hybrid, sits at the heart of the range, one up from the entry level Workmate – but still surprisingly swish. The SR is aimed primarily at tradies, fleet buyers and families who want a no-nonsense dual cab that still scrubs up reasonably well after hours. It’s the spec that has to do it all: carry tools during the week, tow on the weekend and occasionally play family wagon.

Styling Hilux is available in five grades and 16 variations, not as many as the old days, but more than enough. They include cab-chassis or pick-up configurations, 4x2 or 4x4 drivelines, and single, extra and double-cab body styles. Prices kick off from $33,990 for the 4x2 Workmate single cab-chassis with a manual transmission, but more than double by the time you reach the top. The 4x2 double cab Workmate with an auto is priced from $47,990 and the 4x2 SR double cab pick-up from $52,990. It’s followed by the 4x4 grades, including Workmate, SR, SR5, Rogue and Rugged X – the latter priced at $71,990. A further step up is the fully-electric Hilux BEV, priced from $76,490. The hybrid kicks in with SR cab-chassis from $57,990, followed closely by our test vehicle, the SR double cab pick-up 48V at $59,490 with an auto. Premium paint adds $675; the premium interior pack adds $2500. Bear in mind on-road costs must be added to these figures. Equipment is pitched to suit its working brief without feeling too vinyl. SR is differentiated on the outside by 17-inch alloy wheels, silver painted lower front bumper, black painted door handles, side mirrors and hood moulding, LED front fog lights, side steps, locking rear tailgate and a choice of six exterior colours. Owners of double cab automatic versions can also choose to change their 17-inch alloy wheels to steel wheels if they prefer. Inside, there’s manual aircon, while the SR adds greater front-seat bolstering and high-grade fabric upholstery, leather-accented shift knob and steering wheel, a 300W inverter, and smart entry and start. A simple 7.0-inch digital instrument panel delivers clear, easy to read info – but obviously lacks the bells and whistles of higher grades. Hilux is covered by Toyota’s standard five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, with the possibility of extended coverage on the drivetrain if you stick to dealer servicing. Service is due every six months, not 12 months, and although services are capped at $395 per visit – that’s two visits or $790 per year. The cap comes off after five years.

Infotainment A new free-standing 12.3-inch touchscreen is standard across the range, offering

We were getting 9.3L/100km after about 330km of mixed driving. On the road, the SR remains very much a ute, more truck than car. WorkMate and SR grades retain a heavy-duty suspension tune designed for carrying loads or towing Unladen, the leaf-spring rear suspension is firm, and on choppy backroads the ride can border on harsh, particularly over sharp bumps and corrugations. With a few hundred kilos in the tray it settles down noticeably, riding with more composure and reminding you that it has been tuned to work best when working. The front end uses a more RATINGS sophisticated setup that keeps steering feel and body control respectable for a Looks: 7.5 ladder-frame vehicle. Performance: 7 Steering weight is well judged: light enough for easy parking and city work, Safety: 7.5 yet with enough heft on the highway Thirst: 7 to feel stable. Practicality: 8 It’s not brimming with feedback, but Comfort: 7 Toyota Hilux SR dual cab utility doubles down on what has made the nameplate a it’s predictable and consistent. fixture in Australia. (Supplied) Body roll is controlled, and although Tech: 7 the Hilux will never be mistaken for a sporty SUV, it can be hustled a better interface, greater resolution, look rather than a ‘show truck’ Value: 7.5 Overall: 7.3 along a country road without feeling enhanced voice recognition, AM/FM and vibe. The front end is broad and DAB+ digital radio and compatibility with wayward. wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, upright, with a simple grille treatment and Brakes are strong and confidencewith wireless charging and eight-speaker practical headlights. inspiring, though as with any heavy vehicle Our test vehicle was fitted with an you still need to allow for stopping distances audio system. There’s cloud-based navigation across optional bullbar that incorporates a light when towing or fully loaded. the range, with four USB-C ports and two bar and serves to enhance the tough visage. It’s off-road, where the Hilux SR really There’s less chrome than the SR5 and earns its stripes. 12 volt sockets in this model. But read the fine print because access to more hard-wearing plastic where you’d Ground clearance, approach and some features expires unless you take out a expect it to get knocked around. departure angles and underbody protection In dual cab form it’s a sizeable vehicle, are all tuned for serious work. subscription. stretching more than five metres in length, Low-range gearing, hill-descent control, but with no larger footprint than the main a proper rear diff lock and sensible Safety traction-control calibration give it the tools Hilux carries a five-star safety rating. Extra competition. Getting in and out is easy enough for most to climb, descend and crawl through the safety equipment on SR includes tyre pressure monitoring and a panoramic view adults, helped by side steps, though shorter kind of tracks that would stop a soft-roader monitor, while 4x4 automatic grades bring passengers will still notice the height. dead. Once aboard, you’re greeted by a cabin additional off-road capability with a locking The suspension offers good wheel travel rear differential, Multi Terrain Select and that is more site office than lounge room, and keeps tyres in contact with the ground with seats trimmed in a hard-wearing more often than not, which is exactly what downhill assist control. SR customers are also able to remotely fabric. you want when things get gnarly. Hard plastics dominate, but they lock and unlock their vehicle through the Noise levels are acceptable rather than feel robust rather than cheap, and the plush. myToyota Connect app. switchgear is logically arranged. The diesel clatter is obvious on cold start Everything is where you’d expect it and and under hard throttle, but it fades into the Engines/transmissions Under the bonnet sits Toyota’s 2.8-litre can be operated with gloved hands, which background at cruising speeds. is exactly what many buyers want. four-cylinder turbo-diesel. Wind and tyre noise are well contained Front seats in the SR have evolved beyond for a vehicle of this type, though you’re In its current tune it produces around 150kW, with torque output depending on the flat perches of old, with more bolstering always aware you’re in a commercial-based the transmission – manuals get a little less, and better thigh support – but they’re still a ute rather than a luxury SUV. snug fit with little elbow room. autos a bit more, up to about 500Nm. The driving position is upright and Summing up In the mild-hybrid, a 48-volt system adds a small motor-generator and compact commanding, with good forward vision The Hilux SR dual cab utility is not trying to and large mirrors that help when towing or be the most glamorous or hi-tech ute in the battery. This doesn’t turn the Hilux into a full reversing into tight spots. car park. The rear bench is adequate for shorter hybrid, but it can assist the engine briefly at Instead, it doubles down on what has low revs, smooth restarts and capture a bit trips and a better fit for kids, though the made the nameplate a fixture in Australia: backrest is fairly upright and the base a durability, capability and a sense that it will of energy under braking. Drive is sent either to the rear wheels (in little short, reminding you this is still a cop punishment without complaint. 4x2s) or through a part-time 4WD system commercial vehicle at heart. In that sense it’s better than the sum of its Missing are rear air vents. with high and low ranges. parts, because the combination of engine, Out the back, the tub accepts standard chassis, safety electronics and dealer A rear differential lock is available on 4x4 pallets and typical worksite loads, but backing delivers low-drama ownership that SRs and key for serious off-road use. The gearbox is a six-speed manual or there’s no liner or cover. many buyers prize above all else. However, tie-down points, a damped six-speed automatic, both well proven. Toyota has clearly chosen to prioritise tailgate and easy step-up access make toughness, towing and off-road ability over loading reasonably straightforward. luxury-grade comfort and cutting-edge Driving SR has a braked tow capacity of 3500kg interiors. The big news with the SR is V-Active technology and that starts with this version, and accepts a payload of 1125kg (that figure And, for a large slice of the market even though it doesn’t wear a hybrid badge. is surprisingly difficult to find). that trade-off still makes perfect sense, Performance is modest rather than including tradies, farmers, fleets and It’s a 48-volt mild hybrid system that consists of an 8.5kW/65Nm electric motor exciting: you’re looking at roughly anyone who regularly loads up or ventures generator, lithium-ion battery and DC/DC mid-teens 0-100km/h times when loaded off-road. up, a bit quicker when unladen. converter. While rivals such as the Ford Ranger, But this engine is more about pulling Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50 and Mitsubishi It is designed to provide smoother stop-start functionality while also power than sprint times. Triton have lifted their game, the Hilux SR With a largish 80-litre tank, fuel remains a default choice for buyers who providing improved driving feel when consumption with this version is a claimed value proven hardware and a huge dealer accelerating from standstill. The latest Hilux SR has a tough, functional 7.2L/100km. network over the very latest platform.

20 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2026

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Strathmore. 579505 02

A big crowd caught the action. 579505 07

Christos Kosmas tries to keep the ball in. 579505 08

Liam Cavanagh at the front of the pack. 579505 15

Keilor. 579505 04

Strathmore’s day to shine Strathmore made it back-to-back premierships in the Essendon District Football League premier division. Star Weekly

photographer Rana Sajid Hussain was out shooting some of the action.

It was hard going for Keilor. 579505 19

Cody Brand. 579505 16

Keilor struggled to hit targets. 579505 14

Nicole Condos. 579505 03

Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 21

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Borg returns to the Lions By Tara Murray Lisa Borg made her name for the Sunbury Lions on the field. Now it’s only fitting she returns to the Lions as coach as the side celebrates its 25th anniversary next year. Borg has been appointed the side’s coach for next year’s Essendon District Football League women’s season. The new coach said it was pretty special to return to the Lions. “I’m pretty excited,” she said. “It feels a lot different to anywhere else. “I’m excited that it’s the 25th season. “It’s a whole new playing group and I was there a couple of years ago as an assis-

tant coach, so I know some of the players.” Borg said while she had coached at a number of different clubs, she had never really thought about coaching the Lions until the last few years. While a lot has changed since she played at the club, there’s still that special feeling. She said they would look to mark the 25 year anniversary with a celebration. The club is one of the oldest women’s sides in Melbourne’s north-west. “I’m looking forward to the stability and the familiarity,” she said. “I want to get the ball rolling. The club only won two games this year, so I’m looking forward to the challenge with a good group of girls and I want to help get the

most out of them. “They have managed to stay afloat all these years and are the most successful club in Sunbury.” Having had the challenges of helping set up a women’s program at a number of her previous clubs, Borg said it was nice to have the program already established. She has coached at a number of clubs including Kyneton and Gisborne. Borg said it sounded like most of the playing group was returning while there were some others looking to return to the club. “There’s a bit of buzz,” she said. “I’m a new coach and there will be some new things.

“I’m usually developing players from day dot, it will be the first time I’m coaching an established program and I’m looking forward to the challenge. “I know what the culture is as I’ve been part of it. It feels really special.” Borg had played with the Lions masters side this year with the senior women and masters sides working closely together. She said if she didn’t coach she would have continued to play for that side, but she can do that once her coaching is finished. The Lions will hold a meet the coach session at the Sunbury Social Club on 4 October at 3pm. Any interested players or sponsors can contact Borg on 0401 881 002.

Ryan Allan. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 416136_12

Giant step for Allan

Gary Learmonth is excited for the challenge. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 560542_23

Learmonth ready for coaching challenge By Tara Murray New Kyneton coach Gary Learmonth wants to continue to help the Tigers program in the Riddell District Football League. Learmonth has been appointed coach for the next three seasons, replacing Ethan Foreman who has been at the helm for the past few seasons. Learmonth said the club was in a good position and it was his goal now to take it to the next level. “I’m looking forward to it,” he said. “I think it’s an exciting opportunity for a coach to come in and follow up the work that Ethan has done getting them to a pretty good spot. “I’m really looking forward to getting involved with the group and getting to know them initially.” Learmonth said both he and the club were keen to have a contract for three years allowing them to build to success. He said the first year is always tough, no matter what spot a club is in. Learmonth has coached multiple teams

in the Ballarat region, and was involved at Victorian Football League level this year. He said the Kyneton role would take him out of his comfort zone from where he had been coaching. “I had played against Kyneton when they were in the Bendigo league, my father against them way back in 1966 in their grand final,” he said. “I’ve sort of followed the club and know they have really good support being a onetown club. “I was sort of looking for a change out of Ballarat-type football, Central Highlands or Ballarat. “I knew a few of the players and saw that they have been competitive and on an upward spiral, which led to me thinking it was an opportunity I really should pursue.” The Tigers were knocked out in the semi-finals by Wallan, having been in front until the dying moments. Learmonth said the side probably got a little bit of stage fright, but there were a lot of positive signs. “They certainly played some great foot-

22 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2026

ball in the two that they played,” he said. “That only reinforced what I expected, they played a really exciting brand of football the last two years and have shown their form stacks up in finals. “Hopefully we can continue that development.” Learmonth said he was excited to have Foreman remaining at the club in a playing capacity. He said it’s not easy these days being a playing coach. “To keep that IP from what they’ve done and also he’s a very good player,” he said. “He’s really super talented.” Learmonth said they were already starting to talk to prospect recruits, while also retaining their existing playing group. He said they were looking to put the work in early, to make it easier come next year. Meanwhile, the Tigers held their best and fairest on the weekend. Hamish Yunghanns won the best and fairest from Caleb Fisher. Jacob Grinter won the Tiger spirit award.

Gisborne Giants have added another key position player to their list for next year’s Riddell District Football League season. The Giants announced that Ryan Allan would be joining the club for next season. Allan can play either end of the ground and joins the Giants from Leitchville Gunbower in the Heathcote Football League. “Ryan arrives at the Giants with an outstanding football resume and a career that has seen him perform at the highest level across multiple competitions,” the Giants said on social media. “Emerging from the Gippsland League as a standout talent, Ryan was selected and elevated to Coburg VFL [Victorian Football League], before making his way to EDFL [Essendon District Football League] powerhouse Aberfeldie. “During his time at Aberfeldie, Ryan became a three-time premiership player, a four-time EDFL team of the year representative, and was named at full back in the EDFL team of the decade for the 2010s. “Ryan then made the move to Caroline Springs, where he produced another outstanding period of football. “Across 64 games, Ryan booted an impressive 151 goals, while claiming the club’s best and fairest in 2024 before being named WFNL [Western Football Netball League] team of the year captain and centre half back. “A player with an exceptional football pedigree, Ryan has consistently established himself among the top echelon of players throughout his career.” The Giants said they were equally as excited about the qualities Allan brings away from the football field and the impact he can have on their playing group, culture and future.

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Big boost for RDFL women By Tara Murray The Riddell District Football League women’s competition could have four new teams next season in a massive boost for the competition. After having just four teams this season, four existing RDFL clubs are aiming to field women’s sides in the competition. The league released a statement saying it was pleased to see clubs continuing to invest in opportunities for women and girls to play football. As previously announced, Wallan has moved its women’s program from the Northern Football League. The Magpies men’s football and senior netball are already in the competition. Melton Centrals is aiming to reform its women’s side having not had one since

Covid-19. The club previously told Star Weekly it was about providing a pathway for their juniors so they can continue to play at the club. Diggers Rest is aiming to have a women’s side for the first time. Burras’ president Shane Bishop said they had a group of youth girls coming through and they wanted to have somewhere they could play and if they didn’t do it know, it would likely be another three or four years before they had the players ready. They have advertised for a coach. Melton South last week announced that former Sunbury Lions women’s coach Daniel Brady had been appointed its women’s coach for next season. Brady previously played at Melton South and was a former reserves and assistant

The RDFL women’s competition is set to grow. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 567238_24

coach at the club as well. Gareth Ryan has been named his assistant coach. The Panthers tried to get a women’s side up and running this year but didn’t have the numbers. The clubs will join Macedon, Lancefield, Riddell and Mount Alexander which were in the competition this year, having had six teams in 2025.

Melton and Romsey both withdrew after not having the numbers. “We are really encouraged by the interest we are seeing from clubs across the league,” league operations general manager Grace Bibby said. “The growth of women’s football is important to the future of the RDFNL, and we want to work closely with our clubs to support them in establishing sustainable and successful women’s programs. “With several clubs taking positive steps towards entering teams in 2027, we are hopeful this will provide further opportunities for women and girls across our region to play football and contribute to the continued growth of the competition.” The RDFNL said it will continue to work with clubs throughout the off-season to support their preparations for the 2027 season.

Sports shorts RDFL Xavier Tadd will return to Woodend-Hesket for next year’s Riddell District Football League season. “After a year at Charlton, this Woodend homegrown junior is back in brown and gold,” the Hawks said on social media. “Xavier came through our junior ranks and we couldn’t be more excited to have him back in the fold for the season ahead.”

Talent League Calder Cannons’ Chloe Bullen has been named in the Talent League girls team of the year for 2026. Bullen, who is from Gisborne, was named in the forward pocket having already shared the leading goalkicker award. There were no Cannons named in the boys team of the year.

Ballarat FNL Several Sunbury Lions were recognised at the league’s Henderson and McLean Medal awards night. Lions captain Tyson Lever was named in the football team of the year, while Georgia Hellyer was named in the A-grade netball team of the year. The Lions’ Deanna Stainer won the D-grade best and fairest, while Grace Kavanagh won the E-grade best and fairest. The Lions were awarded club of the year.

Thomas King. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 537960_10

Roar ready to go, new recruits add depth By Tara Murray Sunbury has added more depth as it aims to continue to improve in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association McNamara Shield. The Roar stunned many last season as it made finals in its first season under coach Leo Italiano. Having started pre-season in early August, Italiano said they were keen to see what they could achieve this season. “We’ve recruited really well,” he said. “We’ve recruited for the whole club, not just the first XI. “We’re really happy with what we’ve brought in. “We have about 12 new players and six or seven are bonafide ones or twos players. “Selection will be tough as there will be pressure on for spots.” The Roar have lost two of its English imports from last season, with both staying in the United Kingdom. Thomas King has returned and is set to be based in Australia long term. Shane Guerra has joined the club, hav-

ing previously played in senior division. Italiano said he’s an experienced wicketkeeper-batter. Riaz Khan, who didn’t play last season, scored 600 runs and took 40-odd wickets in his recent England season. Ash McKinley has arrived from England, where he has captained his club in Yorkshire the past four to five years, having made more than 10,000 runs and taken more than 300 wickets. Former Roar coach Justin Nelson returns to the club from East Sunbury and is set to open the batting. Nath Stubbings, who has been at Footscray, but a Sunbury local, is another set to boost the top of the order. “We’ve got more depth in the batting and we look like we will bat down to number eight. “With the ball we won’t have to rely on Jase [McGann]. He will be more of a genuine striker bowler and if we need to go back to him, we will. “We’ll spread the load and take the burden off him.” The Roar has also added to its coach-

ing ranks with former Sunshine Heights coach Wayne Miller taking on a bowling coaching role. McGann will again captain the side with Jackson Treweek named vice-captain. Italiano said they wanted to start bringing through their next lot of leaders. In the second XI, 17-year-old Nicholas Davies has been named vice-captain. The Roar is set to have five senior sides this season and an under-18 turf side, which will provide opportunity on turf for players in the wider Sunbury and Macedon Ranges region. Having had such a strong season last year, Italiano said they weren’t setting expectations just yet. “Every other club has recruited as well,” Italiano said. “We won’t know until round two or three rounds in. “We’re not setting expectations of a semi final or bust. I think we will be really competitive.” Sunbury is set to kick off its season on 3 October at Clarke Oval against Grand United.

Bendigo FNL Gisborne’s Pat McKenna just fell short of adding the Michelsen Medal to the Ron Best Medal at the Bendigo Football Netball League awards night. McKenna led the best and fairest count heading into the final round. Kangaroo Flat’s Angus Macpherson polled two votes in the final round to move alongside McKenna, who didn’t poll. Btt with Eaglehawk’s Ben Thompson polling three votes in the final round he moved to the top to win by one vote. McKenna was named in the team of the year along with teammates Brad Bernacki and Zac Vescovi, who was named captain of the team. Tilly Shepherd, Charlee Kemp, Kirby Elliott and Torie Skrijel were named in the A-grade netball team of the year.

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Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 SUNBURY & MACEDON RANGES STAR WEEKLY 23

22, SEPTEMBER, 2026

Roar ready to go

Giants big signing

A perfect ending By Tara Murray Gisborne’s final day in the Bendigo Football League will be one to remember. The Bulldogs claimed the senior football premiership along with two netball premierships on Saturday afternoon. The club and the Gisborne community celebrated hard into the night, with the club making the move to the Ballarat Football Netball League next season. Senior football captain Zac Vescovi said it was a pretty special day for the club. “It definitely has not set in yet,” he said on Sunday afternoon. “With the whole of yesterday and with the netball winning B-reserve and B-grade it couldn’t have gone better for the club. “It was amazing. The whole community was at the Gisborne club rooms last night [Saturday] which went into early morning. “Everyone had a great evening and had a great day yesterday.” Having finished fourth and made the grand final, the Bulldogs faced Sandhurst in the grand final. The Bulldogs had a couple of big selection calls heading into the match. Gun midfielder Brad Bernacki was ruled out with a broken jaw sustained in the preliminary final. Ruck Braidon Blake, who hadn’t played since round seven due to injury, was named in the final team. Vescovi said Blake hadn’t been in their plans. “This week his knee pulled up OK,” he said. “He probably wasn’t in line with his rehab timeline but he thought you know, I’ll give it a run and both training sessions he got through and trained really well Thursday night. The whole group made a decision that we would play him and it paid off in the end. “He was able to play deep forward and take a few big marks for us which we needed.” Like the Bulldogs previous three finals, the game was on the line heading into the final quarter. This time, Gisborne trailed by one point. Pat McKenna kicked the first two goals of the final quarter to lead by 11 points with 20 minutes on the clock. When he got his third for the quarter, the Bulldogs led by 16 points with 16 minutes remaining. The Bulldogs continued to press and James Gray and Matthew Merrett put the icing on the cake. “I felt like each finals game I’ve said the same thing, but it played out probably what we expected again,” Vescovi said. “We were quietly confident that if we could stick with them for longer that it would play into our hands. “Our young guys, our runners were absolutely awesome and it just paid off in that last quarter and they were able to get on the outside and the smaller bodies were able to use the space and hit up McKenna a few times to get a few goals.” McKenna kicked five goals and was

Gisborne celebrates. (Gisborne FNC)

awarded the Ron Nalder best on ground medal. It’s been a big year for McKenna, who won the Ron Best Medal as the competition’s leading goalkicker and finished second in the league best and fairest. Vescovi said he was in some career form despite not being able to train as much as previously. “His leadership and calmness throughout the whole day was really important for the year group, not too many with grand final experience and he’s a premiership captain as well.” Flynn Lakey won the AFL Vic Medal. Vescovi said he did what he normally did and did the basics really well and stepped up with Bernacki out. Despite missing the game, Bernacki was presented with a premiership medal. Vescovi said they were all pretty emotional for him and his character really shone through this week, and that he deserved a medal. Vescovi said the win and premiership was a nice way to conclude their time in the Bendigo league. “The history that we’ve had in the league and more that even though we are exiting the league it was a good celebration to show the league how much it meant to us that we still go out with a fight and obviously won the flag. “It was really special to go out that way. For all the people and past players and the committee that have had such an impact to have a positive finish like that was awesome.”

Flynn Lakey and Pat McKenna.