News stories that are concise but no less important
Tribute for asbestos campaigner
A Macedon Ranges resident’s efforts to advocate for those suffering from mesothelioma were applauded in federal parliament during Asbestos Awareness Week. McEwen MP Rob Mitchell said while asbestos had been banned since 2003, about 1350 cases of lung cancer caused by the material were diagnosed every year. He said Lou Williams, who lost her father to mesothelioma and has herself battled the disease for the past 13 years, was ‘‘one tough fighter’’, who continued to push hard for new medications to be added to the pharmaceutical benefits scheme.
Sensory experience
A sensory garden at Riddells Creek’s Lions Park was opened by Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas and Macedon Ranges mayor Graham Hackett last week. The garden includes a display area, boardwalk bridge and scented and textured plants. Future works will include a flying fox, heritage trail, exercise equipment and a stage.
Sunbury SES helps in SA
Sunbury SES fleet team leader Callum Vandeloo was part of a Victorian emergency services contingent sent to help firefighting efforts in South Australia last week. The team included about 300 CFA and SES volunteers with specialised skills.
Old fires re-ignite
High winds stirred up large clouds of smoke near the area affected by October’s Lancefield bushfire. Firefighting trucks and a helicopter were deployed after logs within the burnt area began smouldering again last Wednesday. Authorities said patrols of the area will continue. Firefighters from towns as far away as Sunbury and Diggers Rest also responded to private burnoffs at Mount Macedon and Gisborne, which also reignited due to the strong winds. The CFA warned people to check old burnoff piles.
Servo case at VCAT
Woodend objectors to plans for a service station development took their battle to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal last Wednesday. Food and petrol giant Coles Express appealed a Macedon Ranges council decision to reject its application for a servo at 59 High Street. In May, councillors heard objections relating to traffic, the proposed size of the development and its potential affect on town character.
BYO water this season
Residents may need independent water supplies to defend properties this fire season. Western Water managing director Neil Brennan said pumps could fail if electricity was cut. Details: www.westernwater.com.au or 1300 650 422.
