Resident concerns raised

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September 22, 2026

THE proposed Middle Hut Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project continues to be a talking point across the Doreen community, with calls to ensure concerned residents are acknowledged as part of the process.

A community information session was held on Saturday, August 29 at the Arthurs Creek Community Centre, with many residents understood to be disappointed at the lack of answers provided on the day.

Responding to the scenario at hand, a new group, the Arthurs Creek Green Wedge Alliance, has been created to bring resident concerns to relevant members.

A proposed meeting is now being held this Sunday, September 20 at 11am at the Arthurs Creek Mechanics Institute Hall.

“Many people have been working incredibly hard to raise concerns about the proposed Doreen Middle Hut BESS, both individually and in groups,” the group wrote on its Facebook page.

“The Arthurs Creek Green Wedge Alliance has been formed by people from across our local community, to provide another way to get involved and have a voice.

“While our roots are in Arthurs Creek, everyone who shares our concern is very welcome. We hope to work alongside and support the other groups and individuals who are already doing so much.”

The key areas of concern, the group says, relates around location and amenity, battery, fire and emergency safety and environment and cultural heritage.

Frequent resident concerns have included the proposal’s compatibility with the Green Wedge Zone within the Nillumbik Shire Council, the environmental and landscape values, the potential loss of biodiversity and wildlife, emergency access and firefighting needs and the loss of amenity for nearby properties.

The session was attended by Liberal Member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell and Liberal candidate for Yan Yean Amanda Dow, where calls were made to ensure the project followed community engagement guidelines.

“The community engagement guidelines will be nothing more than a dead letter if the Carroll Labor Government is not willing to enforce them, and the Minister for Energy must ensure that proponents of renewable energy projects conform to the guidelines,” Ms Lovell said.

Ms Dow said residents needed engagement to have their concerns heard.

“I know that many residents of Doreen, Arthurs Creek and surrounding areas in the Green Wedge were disappointed not to receive answers from the proponents of the battery energy storage system. They deserve genuine engagement and real answers right now to their concerns with the BESS being planned in their community,” she said.

For renewable energy developers, VicGrid had recently released a revised version of community engagement and social value guidelines, stating that the minimum expectatrions for developers engaging with commuinities are to provide transparent information as soon as possible and engagement opportunities that reflect local and community needs.

The rules do not come into effect until July next year, but the government would “ensure developer engagement is consistent with the guidelines”.

The BESS proposal, according to information on its website, is yet to be determined size wise.

“The proposed Middle Hut BESS involves the development and installation of a utility-scale lithium-ion battery, an on-site switching station, and ancillary infrastructure at 260 and 340 Middle Hut Road, Doreen,” the website reads.

“At this stage, the size of the BESS is yet to be determined but will be approximately 290 MW/1160 MWh.

“The Middle Hut BESS is expected to connect into either the existing 330kV or 220kV transmission lines that crosses the site.

“When electricity demand increases, the stored energy can be released back into the grid, helping maintain a reliable and secure electricity supply.

“The project is not a data centre, nor will it generate energy. The project will store energy and will include battery storage units, inverter stations, electrical infrastructure, internal access roads, landscaping and other associated infrastructure required for safe operation.”

It was also confirmed by the State Government that an application has not been received as of yet, while also putting together some background.

“The Department of Transport and Planning has not received an application for this project,” a State Government spokesperson said.

“All proposals are considered on their merits in accordance with the relevant planning scheme.

“Green wedges play an important role in supporting agriculture, jobs, tourism and open space around Melbourne, which is why we are strengthening protections for them.”

Stars shine on the big stage

Michael Thompson

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September 22, 2026

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THE who’s who of the Northern Football Netball League came together to enjoy the Rosbrook Gannon awards night last Wednesday.

There were plenty of emotional stories, personal triumphs and great celebrations on the night.

South Morang was one of the key beneficiaries of the night, with big man Nathan Stefanile celebrating his first best and fairest victory with a triumph in division 2.

In a lengthy and celebrated career, Stefanile was at his brilliant best for the Lions this season with his ruthless efficiency from centre bounce contests, often single-handedly turning games with his clearance work.

Stefanile’s dominance was such that he won by eight votes, polling 25 in total, with St Mary’s defender Dom Akuei and Whittlesea hard nut Bailey Robinson sharing second on 17 votes, and Fitzroy Stars’ Ethan Penrith third on 15 votes.

With a young South Morang unit growing around him, Stefanile said it was essential in order to cover the Lions’ contested ball work.

“It was a good year, which was nice to see,” he said.

“It’s part of my role, and part of growing the boys around me as well. We lacked a little bit of contested ball winners on the inside, so playing my part probably helped us win a few more games this year.

“Next year, I want to make sure my body stays consistently fit, it’s my most consistent year this year, so I’ll keep doing the work on the outside so I can stay on the track long enough. My biggest role now, being one of the older blokes and a bit of an assistant coach on the field is to grow the team. We didn’t get the chocolates this year, but I want to grow the team so that we are bigger and better to win a flag next year.”

Stefanile said in a tight division 2 competition, the quality of ruckmen stood out.

“Connor McDonald is one of them, he is an unorthodox sort of ruckman, he is an athlete and an extra on-baller for Old Paradians, he gets a heap of the ball and it’s hard to keep track of him on the ground,” he said.

“Seth Hill from Lower Plenty has a massive future, he is a big boy and can give me some troubles here and there.

“I could go through and name so many competitive ruckmen this year.”

In division 1, Heidelberg’s Sam Gilmore claimed an emotional victory, with the Tigers’ big man winning the Rosbrook Medal on the last vote of the night.

Giving a speech which left all in awe on the night, Gilmore’s courageous return to the football field after losing a child in April saw him claim the award with three-vote games in his last three matches.

Brent Marshall 1068w WebRdy — SHARING SECOND: Mernda’s Brent Marshall was one of three players to tie for second in the division 3 count, alongside Laurimar’s Luke Wilson and Patrick Fitzgerald.

Ivanhoe’s Riley Loton claimed the division 3 best and fairest, with the midfielder scooping the pool, also claiming the coaches MVP for the division.

In an exceptionally close count, Loton polled 18 votes to win by four from three players, with Laurimar duo Patrick Fitzgerald and Luke Wilson, as well as Mernda playing-coach Brent Marshall, all second on 14 votes. Laurimar’s Jesse Donaldson and Mernda big man Billy Morrison finished equal third on 13 votes.

The women’s awards were also well-contested.

In division 1, Montmorency’s Kira Lemire took out the count, winning by four votes.

Division 2’s vote count was dramatic, with West Preston’s Isabel Young pinching the count on the last vote of the night, winning by one vote over long-time leader, Kilmore’s Chiara Nardo.

Sarah Campbell 1068w WebRdy 1 — FINISH WITH A FLURRY: Sarah Campbell flew home to claim a podium finish for Laurimar in the division 3 women’s count, scoring third place.

Epping’s Nancy Cakau was the winner of the division 3 best and fairest, scoring a two-vote victory over Diamond Creek Women’s player Bentley Butler. Laurimar’s Sarah Campbell enjoyed a terrific individual season, polling third with 17 votes.

In the premier netball competitions, North Heidelberg’s Bel Colwell won the Stacey Gannon Medal, dominating the voting, while the Bulldogs’ Nikki Clover took the division 2 count. In division 3, South Morang’s Elly Castles won by a vote.

A shed load of history

Cooper O'Brien

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September 22, 2026

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THERE was a fantastic turnout last week at the Broadford Men’s Shed book launch, which held a sneaky surprise within it as well.

The group launched a book to remember and reflect on the history of the Broadford Bush Nursing Hospital, Broadford’s Community Centre and the Broadford Men’s Shed.

John Brissett, a founding member of the shed, put over 500 hours into the book, writing, rearranging and editing pages for people to view in the future, while recovering from a seizure which was caused by a brain tumour.

BookLaunch22 — BOOK LAUNCH: President of the Broadford Men’s Shed Paul Bramich, founding member John Brissett and Sheree from the Bendigo Bank launching a new historical book.

The book looks back to 2005 when the group first started and were running out of the small garage next to the community centre. Since then, they’ve expanded out to a bigger shed, which was built back in 2018 and opened in 2019.

Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes, was there on the opening ceremony day and still had a major role to play in their next upgrade.

The exciting news for the group was that they are now expanding their shed further, thanks to a government grant of $74,751.

Mitchell Shire Council also played a role in delivering the grant, with Mayor Councillor John Dougall and other council officials in attendance on the day to celebrate the book launch.

Supplying an additional $25,000, it gives them close to $100,000 to build a secondary shed next to the current one, to allow more room for equipment, storage and men.

In some good news as well, the Review reported a couple of weeks ago that multiple train signs had been stolen from the Broadford Train Station. Although we have no further details on who took the signs, Bunnings Warehouse in Seymour donated a $200 voucher for the shed to help replace the signs for the community.

The group has now grown to 30 members and remains a staple of the town and one of its community groups.

President of the group Paul Bramich was extremely grateful to the Bendigo Bank, which helped fund the book and make its production possible.

He also thanked Southern Cross Gold, who have been choosing the shed for particular wooden creations instead of going elsewhere commercially.

The funds they have received from the mining company have fast-tracked their project, making it three times quicker than what they originally tallied.

Macedon Ranges Council calls for independent Clarkefield Township assessment

Cooper O'Brien

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September 22, 2026

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Macedon Ranges Council calls for independent Clarkefield Township assessment

MACEDON Ranges Shire Council has reaffirmed its position on the proposed Clarkefield Township Development following a recent election commitment regarding the future planning arrangements for the project.

Mayor Councillor Cassy Borthwick said Council’s position on Amendment C164 remained unchanged, with any decision needing to be based on a transparent, robust and evidence-based planning process.

Council has continued to call for an independent assessment of the proposal, saying further assessment, independent review and greater clarity are needed before any decision is made.

Council said it would continue working with the government of the day and engaging with election candidates to advocate for a rigorous planning process that considers concerns raised by Council and the community.

Dominic Bonanno takes unpaid leave to contest Macedon state seat

Cooper O'Brien

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September 22, 2026

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Dominic Bonanno takes unpaid leave to contest Macedon state seat

FORMER Mayor and current councillor of the Macedon Ranges Shire Council (MRSC) Dominic Bonanno is taking unpaid leave from the MRSC to contest the state seat of Macedon as an independent candidate.

Cr Bonanno becomes the third councillor to elect for the state election alongside former Mayor and current councillor Kate Kendall who is running for the Liberals and former Mayor Annette Death who will be running for Labor.

“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.” Cr Bonanno said in a statement.

“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. After considering what it will mean for my family, my council responsibilities and the community I serve, I have decided to stand as an independent candidate for Macedon.”

Although Mr Bonanno is taking unpaid leave from council, it does propose the concern from community members in the shire, who see three separate councillors all contesting the state election against each other.

Would there be internal conflict between the councillors who are now running against each other?

The Review has been told Cr Kendall independently submitted a notice of motion for a leave of absence before Bonnano’s decision, to also take unpaid leave from council to ensure a clear separation of roles.

Mr Bonanno also ran for the 2022 state election as a Liberal candidate but was unsuccessful.

Bonanno returned from a six month leave earlier this year and was caught drink driving in November last year in his mayoral vehicle.

Delegation off to Japan

The North Central Review

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September 22, 2026

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THE Mitchell–Honbetsu Sister City Association is preparing to send a delegation of seven representatives to Honbetsu, Japan, from September 25-30.

The visit continues the long-standing friendship between Mitchell Shire and Honbetsu, a relationship that has been built over more than three decades through student exchanges, homestays, cultural visits and strong community connections.

During the visit, delegates will have the opportunity to experience Japanese culture and continue to strengthen the important relationship between the two communities.

The sister city relationship originally began through the former Kilmore connection with Honbetsu before continuing as part of Mitchell Shire. Since then, the program has remained an important part of the community, with delegations travelling between Australia and Japan and local families opening their homes to visiting students.

The September delegation will help maintain the strong connection between Mitchell and Honbetsu and continue the spirit of friendship that has shaped the program for many years.

In addition, the association is also preparing to welcome 26 students from Honbetsu to Mitchell Shire in early October. Their visit will give local families, schools and community members another opportunity to be part of the sister city relationship, while helping visiting students experience life in Mitchell Shire and continue the friendships between our two communities.

The Mitchell–Honbetsu Sister City program would love to hear from community members who are interested in being part of the program, whether becoming a host family, support future events, join the committee or simply learn more about the relationship.

Half a century of service

The North Central Review

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September 22, 2026

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THE Lancefield Equestrian Group recently celebrated an incredible milestone, with Syd Green recognised for his 50 years of service to the committee and the Lancefield Park Recreation Reserve.

The group says Mr Green has given many of these 50 years as president, while also continuing to give his time and care to the cause.

His son, Robert, has also followed in Syd’s foosteps.

The Lancefield Equestrian Group spoke of Syd’s anniversary in their speech.

“Syd hasn’t done all of this by himself. His son, Robert, has followed proudly in his father’s footsteps. Robert has helped us countless times over the years — and very often, he brings his machinery into the Park to grade, tidy, or fix whatever needs doing. Whether it’s smoothing out surfaces, repairing areas after weather damage, or lending a hand with heavier work, Robert shows the same generosity and community spirit that Syd has modelled for decades. It’s a legacy of service that clearly runs in the family,” they said.

“For the Lancefield Equestrian Group, Syd has been one of our greatest supporters. Whenever something went wrong — a leaking pipe, blocked toilets, branches down or even the occasional snake deciding to make an appearance — Syd was there. He never hesitated, never complained, and never left us wondering who to call. He simply turned up and made things right again. His reliability has allowed LEG to run events, welcome riders, and feel confident that we were never facing challenges alone.

“Syd, your 50 years of commitment have strengthened Lancefield in ways that are felt every day — in the events we run, the facilities we use, and the sense of community we share. The Lancefield Equestrian Group congratulates you on this extraordinary milestone, and we thank you deeply for everything you’ve done for us over so many years.”

Car Show wows Wallan

The North Central Review

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September 22, 2026

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IT wasn’t just football, meat pies, kangaroos and Holden cars at Wallan’s annual Show and Shine on Sunday, with plenty of classics and modern cars making the trek to Wallan Secondary College for the yearly tradition.

Well in excess of 200 cars were displayed, including some true eye-catchers on display, as perfect spring weather greeted punters.

The cars on display were majestic – some from as far back as the 1920s, while classic Holden Toranas, Ford Mustangs and even a Ford GT40 represented the 1960s. Modern classics, including a Porsche 911, Toyota Supra and Nissan Skyline GT-R also took their pride of place at the school grounds.

Also included were some demonstrations from the Kilmore SES, live music, swap meet sites, and plenty of food trucks on display as well.

A host of awards were handed out, including the people’s choice award. Check out our gallery of photos.

Best In Show Winner 1068w WebRdy — WINNER: The Wallan Classic Vehicle Club’s Kerry Walton (right) with the winner of the People’s Choice award.

Car Meet Trophies 1068w WebRdy — TROPHIES ON OFFER: There were plenty of categories for car owners to go up for this year.

Kilmore SES 1068w WebRdy — ON DISPLAY: The Kilmore SES did some demonstrations as part of the day’s proceedings.

Work experience day at Puckapunyal

The North Central Review

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September 22, 2026

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PUCKAPUNYAL Military Area recently had the opportunity to host over 1000 students from 39 schools around Victoria, giving students the chance to experience army life through the Defence Work Experience Program.

Held on Friday, September 11, it was an opportunity for students to understand the role of Puckapunyal as the primary training ground for the Australian Army, also getting to house major units, such as the School of Armour, School of Artillery and the Army School of Transport.

Defence Work Experience 1 1068w WebRdy — PLENTY TO SEE: The Army’s trucks were also out on display. Photo: Defence Media

Students were able to understand more and inspect the latest army technology. This include Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, a Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle and a M1A2 Abrams Main Battle Tank.

Students also got to understand a day in the life of the army, talking to the next generation to soldiers, who also undertook combat physical conditioning training demonstrations.

High-octane training course

The North Central Review

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September 22, 2026

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PUCKAPUNYAL showcased its new method of mounted training, with the Land Tactical Vehicle Training Continuum (LTVTC) put into practice.

The LTVTC is designed to enhance survivability, self-protection and tactical profiency for soldiers in Combat Support and Combat Service Support who operate in vehicles, while also providing a training pathway for all soldiers to enhance skills when conducting operations.

Pucka 2 1068w WebRdy — BIG OCCASION: This was the first time the Army showcased a live-fire serial involving a HX81 heavy vehicle.

The importance of it allows soldiers to protect themselves in the heat of battle, with logistics convoys large, slow-moving and vulnerable.

The training is designed to improve army-wide mounted proficiency, increase soldier survivability, a reduction of reliance on arms corps, providing more natural protection to logistics elements, allowing front line forces to remain locked in on combat operations, and building a more self-sufficient and combat ready army.

The training includes four positions – a medium heavy capability commander, protected mobility vehicle driver, commander and instructor. The focus from there is convoy operations, mounted tactics, communications, vehicle command and control and live-fire drills.

Pucka 3 1068w WebRdy — THE SCOPE: This was a demonstration that saw a logistics convoy negotiate delivery of critical items to frontline forces in the heat of battle.

The training is delivered not just in Puckapunyal, but also Darwin, Townsville and Amberley.

Vehicles featured include a 40M medium heavy capability, a HX77 medium heavy capability truck, a HX81 heavy equipment transporter, a Hawkei protected mobility vehicle light and a Bushmaster protected mobility vehicle medium.

Up to seven vehicles can operate in a live-fire convoy, with four iterations of the training course already delivered. The logistics vehicles have the ability to deliver ammunition, fuel, water, rations and heavy equipment.

Find out HERE what else happened throughout the day.