Mail - Mountain Views Star Mail - 13th December 2022

Mountain Views

Tuesday, 13 December, 2022

Mail

Rally held to fight for vital youth hub

Sharp dive in kids learning to swim

Tourism bodies hopeful of a busy summer

Festive hampers delivered to local families

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A Star News Group Publication

Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808

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Elroy’s big chop

By Renee Wood

Elroy with his new hair do and the 45 can be seen on the side.

Elroy after he lost his locks, ready to be sent to Wigs for Kids. able to go to every school.”

Hairdresser Alex Batten from Before and After Hair in Yarra Glen donated her time for the hair cut and was able to give Elroy a special cut of the number 45 on the side of Elroy’s head for his basketball number.

Pictures: RENEE WOOD

It’s safe to say Elroy will be sticking with his new short do for some time to come.

“I’m not growing it again and that’s final,” Elroy said.

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Hairdresser Alex Batten from Before and After Hair and Elroy.

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A Yarra Glen Primary student has spent the past two years growing his locks for a good cause and on Friday 9 December the time had come to chop it all off.

Nine year old Elroy decided two years ago he wanted to do something different and chose to grow his hair to donate it to Wigs 4 Kids campaign with the Kids with Cancer Foundation.

Elroy said the first bit was scary and then after the cutting he felt he could fly out of the roof because his head was so light.

Elroy said he’s mostly enjoyed the journey.

“It hurt combing and it was fun at most points,” he said.

When encouraging other students to do something like this, Elroy said get use to the combing.

“It’s a good idea but you have to grow use to combing it because it really hurts and the braids at the end probably hurt the most.”

Elroy’s parents attended and were very proud of his achievement.

“At seven he committed to it and now two years later, we’re so proud of him. It’s not been easy, he does not like having his hair brushed or combed,” Elroy’s mum April Shortis said.

As part of the fundraising, a raffle was held throughout the school for the winner of the first pony tail cut on the day.

More than $300 was raised for Reach Out, a charity chosen by Elroy’s family for a cause close to their heart.

Ms Shortis said they wanted to support Reach Out after her 18 year old step son William died from suicide in September 2021.

“I feel like if he had a group like Reach Out come to his school, and teach him that it was okay to talk he wouldn’t have felt so locked in and I really want them to have the funds to be

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IN BRIEF

Avoid Xmas sparks As Yarra Ranges residents adorn their homes with festive fairy lights in the lead up to the Christmas and holiday season, firefighters are reminding people to check the wiring and placement of their lights.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan urged Victorians to take simple precautionary steps to be sure it’s only Santa’s sleigh that visits this Christmas, and not a fire truck.

“Before setting your lights up, make sure the wiring is intact, check there are no missing bulbs or frayed cords and the lights are in good, working order,” he said.

“When plugging in your lights, remember not to overload power boards, and make sure electrical cords are not covered by a rug or mat.

“Tinsel and other festive decorations will be abundant but placing lights too close to these items can present a fire risk.

“Remember to turn your Christmas lights off when leaving the house or before going to bed to ensure they don’t overheat.”

In September, CFA responded to an electrical fire caused by fairy lights at a Ferntree Gully house which caused significant damage to the brick veneer property.

Incident Controller and Ferntree Gully firefighter Todd Small said the incident demonstrated the risk associated with damaged festive lights.

“Please don’t leave fairy lights on all the time. Keep yourself and your loved ones safe,” he said.

Electrical fires are among the top causes of house fires each year.

The Reserve Bank of Australia has raised interest rates for the final time in 2022 by .25 basis points to 3.10 per cent, as Australians continue to find making ends meet more difficult.

After a meeting by the RBA board on Tuesday 6 December, Governor Phillip Lowe said the rate of inflation in Australia is too high.

“A further increase in inflation is expected over the months ahead, with inflation forecast to peak at around 8 per cent over the year to the December quarter,” he said.

“Inflation is then expected to decline next year due to the ongoing resolution of global supply-side problems, recent declines in some commodity prices and slower growth in demand.”

Governor Lowe also said the unemployment rate declining to 3.4 per cent in October was the lowest rate since 1974. The cash rate is at its highest since November 2022.

The cash rate represents the interest rate on unsecured overnight loans between banks and serves as the benchmark rate for mortgages, savings accounts and exchange

Healesville Police are seeking assistance from the public in relation to an incident that occurred between the hours of 7.21pm and 7.45pm on Sunday 4 December.

At this time the victim has parked her vehicle, a silver Volkswagen Golf, in the Coles carpark in Healesville.

When she returned she observed the damage to her vehicle and no note from the other driver. The collision had not been reported to police.

Police are requesting assistance from the public for any witnesses to the collision and possible dashcam footage identifying the offending vehicle.

Replies to Senior Constable REID, Healesville Police. 5962 4422

Two quick crashes

Take care with your Christmas lights to avoid an electrical fire this Christmas season.

Christmas lights safety tips:

buying Christmas lights, make sure · When they have the Regulatory Compliance Mark

· · · ·

tick of approval.

Consider using battery-operated LED or solar lights which don’t require electricity.

Inspect your Christmas lights for any sign of damage or wear and tear. Make sure there’s no exposed wiring, that the lights are in good working order and that there are no missing globes.

When decorating the outside of your home, only choose lights and fittings designed for external use.

Make sure you have a safety switch in your

· · · ·

Picture: iStock

meter box or have a qualified electrician install one.

Don’t overload power boards; use no more than three sets of lights per power board, even if there are four or more outlets on it, and avoid using double adaptors.

Make sure electric cords are completely uncoiled and are not placed under rugs or mats.

Place your tree as far as possible from any heat source, curtains or furnishings.

Make sure you have working smoke alarms in all bedrooms, living areas and hallways.

Ideally, smoke alarms are interconnected, which means if a fire in one room sets off one smoke alarm, all alarms will activate.

Ongoing hikes hit families’ hip pockets

By Parker McKenzie

Parked car damaged in Healesville

rates. Inflation is the increase in the cost of goods and services bought by households.

The continuous rise in the cost of maintaining a mortgage over the past year has contributed to a cost of living crisis in Australia, with 44 per cent of 1054 people who responded to a Finder survey saying they are running out of money before payday.

Head of consumer research at finder Graham Cooke said the rise in mortgage rates has been a “huge amount of extra money for mortgage holders to fork out.”

“The current series of rake hikes has added almost $11,000 to the annual cost of a $500,000 mortgage,” he said.

“Renters are also doing it tough; vacancy levels are at record lows and the latest Rental Affordability Index shows all capital cities saw a drop in affordability in this year.”

On Monday 28 November, Governor Lowe apologised “if people listened to what we said and on what we’d said and now regret what they have done” in regards to his guidance in February 2021 that interest rates wouldn’t increase the cash rate until 2024.

“If I can just take you back to the situation

we were facing in 2020 and 2021, the country was in a dire situation. At the Reserve Bank we wanted to do everything we could to help the country get through that,” he said.

“My language was always caveated. I thought it was clear, from the central bank kind of perspective, but the community didn’t think it was clear. They thought it was clear that we weren’t raising rates till 2024.

That’s a failure on our part.”

According to the OECD’s Economic Outlook report for November, elevated inflation has eroded Australian households’ purchasing power.

“The recovery from the pandemic continued in the second quarter of 2022, with growth driven by strong domestic and export demand. High-frequency indicators suggest that household consumption has slowed somewhat in recent months,” it said.

“The labour market has tightened considerably, with the unemployment rate remaining at 3.5 per cent in September, a historically low level. Labour shortages are rife, with employment and participation rates near all-time highs.”

A timely reminder to drive safely came with a crash in Yarra Glen on the morning of Sunday 11 December, resulting in all services responding for a three-car crash on the Melba Highway at Symonds Street. Luckily, those involved only minor injuries, but this crash was followed by another not even an hour later with a crash at Coldstream West Rd and Victoria Rd. Emergency services are urging motorists to drive safely on our local roads over the holiday period.

Yarra Ranges Council scam Yarra Ranges Council has been alerted to a potential phone scam where an unknown caller has been posing as a Council officer and asking for personal information.

Council is alerting residents to the calls, saying this caller is not a member of staff and please be wary about sharing any information over the phone.

Council said it would never ask residents to share personal information over the phone.

Christmas delivery text scam The AFP is warning Australians shopping online over Christmas to be alert to fake delivery scams that could cost unwary victims thousands of dollars.

AFP Commander Cybercrime Operations Chris Goldsmid said December was often the busiest time of year for most people and cybercriminals would attempt to exploit victims who might be stressed and less attentive to details.

The messages will often ask you to click a link to track your package, confirm your delivery address, re-direct your package or collect your package.

Once a consumer clicks on a link, they may be taken to a fake company website where they are asked to enter personal or financial details to complete their delivery.

As well as providing criminals with your sensitive information, clicking the link may lead to the installation of harmful malware.

Easy red flags to look out for include requests for your personal or financial information to confirm your order, an unexplained sense of urgency in the request, grammatical errors, and suspicious URLs. People who detect a scam, regardless of whether they have lost money, can report scams and learn more about how to get help on the Scamwatch website at scamwatch.gov.au.

Those who believe they have fallen victim to cybercrime should immediately report to their bank and also to police using ReportCyber at report.cyber.gov.au.

For more practical cyber safety tips, visit www.cyber.gov.au.

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Rallying for the youth hub

By Mikayla van Loon With the closure of the Lilydale Youth Hub pending at the end of this year, young people and adult allies gathered to rally and march against the ceasing of funding for the service in 2023.

Organised by members of the Yarra Ranges Council Youth Advisory Group (YAG) and young people from the Hub, people came out in numbers to support the march on Saturday 10 December.

“Today, we gather outside the front of the Lilydale Youth Hub for a reason, to raise our voices for youth mental health support and to stand against this closure,” YAG member and rally organiser Candice said.

“The loss of the Lilydale Youth Hub will lead to the forced abandonment of hundreds of young people who access these services. It will lead to the loss of a vital safe space that young people have used to escape to when nowhere else has felt quite like home.”

Lilydale Youth Hub staff member Emma said if you were to fill a football oval with the number of young people, their parents, carers and friends, that’s how many people the Hub has been able to support in three years.

“The Yarra Ranges has the highest amount of youth mental health issues in the region... and we have the least services available,” she said.

As a partnering body with Cire, Anchor, Oonah and Eastern Community Legal, as well as headspace, Emma said the Hub has become an instrumental part of the region’s response to mental health support services.

“We take the pressure off of a lot of the other systems, the hospital system. We provide an early intervention and prevention service where you can walk in and get immediate help.

Where else can you get that kind of support?”

The Hub is asking for just $600,000 to keep

Raising their voices, led by Youth Advisory Group member Candice, young people marched in solidarity through the streets of Lilydale. the service open until May next year when the Federal government, via commissioning funding body EMPHN, completes an evaluation of the service.

“Our program is being evaluated for five months where we’re not open and not running. How can they have an accurate evaluation when we’re not here?” Emma said.

“All we need is $600,000. That’s all we’re asking for. So many young people have benefited and this program is just crucial, young lives matter. Early Intervention matters. It works, we know this program works.”

The heart wrenching truth of the closure was quite emotional for Inspiro CEO Sue Sestan who said “we’ve done everything we can.”

“When you see people interacting, so much effort went into it, together. It’s not easy to do this stuff and it’s going to go to waste,” she said.

Holding out hope the evaluation will be positive, Sue said however, scientific evaluation doesn’t share the human impact and “all these kids are testimony. They’re the case studies.”

“We’re not going to give up on the model, the model is amazing. People may not be listening but we’ll keep advocating and at least I know this actually makes a difference.”

For YAG member and as someone who used the Hub during a difficult time in her life, Charley said “I’m honestly more than frustrated.”

“In my own experience, the Hub ensured I was able to focus back on my university studies when I’d almost given up,” she said.

Having been turned away from other support services which were already overwhelmed, Charley said the Hub took her on in October to help guide her in balancing her university and personal life.

While Charley said her struggles were low risk, there are others who use the Hub who are not in the same category and the thought of this service closing may be terrifying or triggering for them.

“There are some who, I would say, are only alive because of the Hub today.

“For me, I am 23-years-old and with the Hub closing I will survive. I won’t enjoy it but I’ll be OK.” Urging everyone to raise their voice and encouraging people to speak with their MPs or contact government ministers, Charley said everything will help get the message across.

“All we need is someone who can fund the Hub. Even if for any reason this is within your means and you’re thinking about it, please don’t remain silent.”

Casey MP Aaron Violi attended the rally and march on Saturday and said it was a great sign of youth activism and democracy.

“It’s just really disappointing the government has refused to meet with the Youth Hub, refused to commit $600,000 to finish the evaluation,” he said.

Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence was also in attendance and said to see the turnout of people in support of this service just shows how valued it is.

“Early preventative mental health care is so vital and if we lose this hub in our community, the Yarra Ranges community will have nothing…I’ll keep fighting every step of the way,” she said.

Sue said she was “incredibly proud” of all the young people who have raised their voice and been championing the funding of the Hub for their continued benefit.

“All we did was give them a space where they felt safe, where they felt supported and where they felt heard…The initial tender was about youth voice being present in the model.

Today (10 Dec), it was demonstrated,” she said.

Hub staff have found other positions within the local area to hopefully continue benefiting young people. The Hub space on Clarke Street will stand empty.

A petition has been started by YAG. To sign, go to www.change.org/p/save-the-lilydaleyouth-hub

ALL - NEW

OUTLANDER

Lilydale Youth Hub staff, members of the public and young people gather on the grass outside the Hub to rally against the closure of the service.

Pictures: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

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LILYDALE MITSUBISHI 56-70 Main Street Lilydale

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Candice led the chants passionately drawing attention from cars and passersby, sharing the message of ‘save the Hub’.

T 9735 5800

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Yarra Ranges Council Youth Advisory Group members and organisers of the rally and march, Candice and Charley, spoke about the importance of the Youth Hub.

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Ella receives top honour

By Callum Ludwig Healesville Primary School has announced its annual Tricia O’Reilly Memorial Scholarship and Award winner for 2022.

The award, in its 21st year, honours the legacy of former Healesville Primary School and Healesville High School student Tricia O’Reilly who was tragically killed in a car accident while in Year Seven while making her way home, at the age of only 12.

This year, the honour was given to Wellbeing Captain Ella Kells for being the Grade Six student who best emulated Tricia’s academic accomplishments, interest and involvement in the school community and organisation and conscientiousness and who is going on to Healesville High School.

Ella said she was not expecting to receive the award.

“It was weird because the person who I thought was going to win it, her name starts the same as mine, so it was a bit of a shock,” she said.

“I’m really excited to continue the legacy of Tricia.”

The late Senior Sergeant Tony Van Gorp of Healesville Police set up the award back in 2001 to help cover the cost of school books, uniforms and school fees for the winner and he is widow Gayle Shelley proudly still attends to congratulate the winner each year. Sergeant Kirsty Swankie also attended on behalf of Healesville Police.

Ella’s Mum Anne Kells said she was extremely proud of Ella for achieving such an honour.

“I couldn’t be happier with her, she’s done such a good job and she’s such a lovely young lady,” she said.

“It was a huge effort on Ella’s behalf and she has a big sister at high school now that she is looking forward to going to high school with.

Past winner Chloe Lorgally, Sergeant Kirsty Swankie, Healesville High School students Isobel Watson and Rebecca Johansson either side of Head of Junior School Scott Fisher, Ella Kells, Healesville Primary School Principal Tracey Robertson-Smith and Gayle Shelley.

L-R: Micah, Cheryl O’Reilly, Celina, Danielle Mullins and Tricia O’Reilly award winner for 2022 Ella Kells.

Pictures: CALLUM LUDWIG She’s done such a good job at primary school and I’m sure she’ll excel at high school.”

Former recipient Chloe Lorgally also attended and told students about how her 2016 win set her up for many opportunities in high school that she otherwise may never have gotten and that it motivated her to achieve more.

Tricia O’Reilly’s sisters Danielle Mullins and Cheryl O’Reilly attended and Ms Mullins said it really does mean the world to their family.

“It’s always a proud moment to see it continue going on, Tricia was a bright memory and many people in Healesville would tell you that they still remember her, there’s nothing

really else that we could be more proud of than what the school and the community did when she was hurt,” she said.

“It’s amazing watching the students, I see them more now in the high school than the primary school, but seeing them grow or seeing them in the newsletter and they’ve done amazing things so many of them.”

Tricia O’Reilly was killed when she was struck by a truck at the corner of Maroondah Highway and Don Road in Healesville, and her death was a major factor in the push for traffic lights to be installed at that site to make it safer for everyone.

Step-mum Janelle Martin, Ella Kells and Dad Adam Kells.

Mum Anne Kells, Ella Kells and Grandma Beryl Moon.

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Dive in swimming skills

By Callum Ludwig According to a new survey conducted by the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH), almost half (47 per cent) of children missed out on swimming lessons and opportunities to develop water safety skills due to the Covid pandemic.

The National Child Health Poll, titled Water safety warning: Australian kids at risk, raises large concerns about the safety of children around water heading into this summer.

Life Saving Victoria (LSV)’s 2021-22 drowning report also shows that between 2012-13 to 2021-22, most drowning incidents within the Yarra Ranges local government area occurred at private swimming pools, and most in the Maroondah local government area occurred in bathtubs or spas.

LSV’s manager – research and evaluation Dr Hannah Calverley expressed sympathies to those whose loved ones were represented in this year’s drowning report.

“Despite slightly fewer fatalities than last year’s record-breaking toll of 61, the reality is that 53 lives were lost to drowning this year – that’s 53 too many. We’d like to send our sincere condolences to everyone affected,” she said.

“This is the second consecutive year that the Victorian drowning toll has bucked what had otherwise been a downward trend. We’re urging Victorians to be vigilant around water to help put an end to drownings and prevent further tragedy.”

The most at-risk age group for the Yarra Ranges were people aged 25 - to 64-years-old, and the main activities preceding death by drowning were walking or playing near water, Yarra Ranges Area Manager for Belgravia Leisure Darren Allen, which owns and operates pools such as the Yarra Centre, Monbulk Aquatic Centre, Kilsyth Centenary Pool and the Lilydale, Healesville and Belgrave outdoor pools, said swimming lessons have never been more important.

“We’ve missed millions of swimming lessons since the start of the pandemic, an extraordinary amount of opportunities for kids, as well as adults to learn the life skill that is swimming. People are aware that they’ve lost confidence in or entirely lost that skill over this time, ” he said.

“Thankfully in the Yarra Ranges, we have seen participation rates return really strong since we have really valued it. We have had our lessons booked out since September in the most popular timeslots for our classes.”

Among the 35 per cent of children who

The recently-reopened Monbulk Aquatic Centre is one of a few locations to access crucial swimming lessons. missed swimming lessons due to the pandemic, half (49 per cent) have not yet caught up on their swimming skills, with 45 per cent of primary school aged children, 60 per cent of pre-schoolers and 58 per cent of toddlers not having had catch-up lessons.

Mr Allen said the Yarra Ranges is really passionate about swimming, particularly in our pools.

“The damage that was sustained to the Monbulk Aquatic Centre during the storm event of June last year meant that the pool was closed for 15 months and it had a really huge impact on the community, but when we reopened on 1 September, we saw extraordinary rates of the local community reconnecting with the facility,” he said.

“We just really encourage parents in particular to be really engaged with their children’s swimming. The best thing they can do is participate and the second best thing they can do is make sure that they supervise their children whilst they’re in the water. If children are under five, they’ve got to be within arm’s reach and if they are under 10, they still have to be actively supervised.”

Half of the 2036 parents surveyed (49 per cent) were not aware that young children should always be within arm’s reach of an adult in the water and 44 per cent were not aware that drowning is often silent.

Paediatrician and Poll Director Dr Anthea Rhodes said the findings show there is a critical need to improve water safety knowledge among Australian parents.

“With drowning the leading cause of death in children aged less than 15 years in Australia, water safety and swimming skills are critically important. Our report found that while most Australian parents believe that children are never too young to start learning about water safety, there were some concerning gaps in parents’ knowledge about drowning risks,” she said.

“Half of the parents surveyed (49 per cent) falsely believe it takes more than 20 seconds for a child to drown. There were also misconceptions around flotation devices with a third of parents mistakenly believing that a lilo or inflated toy will prevent a child from drowning.”

Picture: ON FILE

According to the polling, one in five preschoolers (21 per cent) have ‘no swimming skills at all’, and almost a third of primary school-aged children have either ‘no swimming skills at all’ (4 per cent) or ‘beginner skills only’ (27 per cent) and one in 10 teenagers have ‘no swimming skills at all’ (2 per cent) or only beginner skills (7 per cent).

Dr Rhodes said they had found that one in six Australian children have never had a swimming lesson.

“The leading barrier was cost, followed by convenience and family logistics. Only half of children have accessed catch-up swimming lessons following the pandemic, leaving many children vulnerable and at risk of water-related accident and injury,” she said.

“As we enter summer, many families will be planning to have fun around the water. Supervision is the single most important protective action parents and carers can take to keep their children safe. We encourage all parents to remain vigilant and stay close to their children when around water this summer, for young children that means staying within arm’s reach.”

Be aware of river safety before taking a dip in summer

By Callum Ludwig With the weather warming up, the cool rivers around the Yarra Ranges can be an attractive prospect for a dip.

The Yarra River through Warburton, the Pound Bend Reserve in Warrandyte and Laughing Waters Swimming Hole in Eltham are all popular nearby spots for a swim but it’s important to stay safe in the water this summer.

Sean Marler spends a lot of time on the river as a kayaker from the Warburton and Alexandra River Dogs group (WARD) and said the key concern for people entering the water over the summer is a lack of understanding of the dangers that our inland rivers and lakes present.

“This is especially for people who are inexperienced, or who don’t have a basic swimming education. I can’t encourage you enough to go and learn how to swim, there are some great swimming schools in the area, doesn’t matter if you are three years old or 33 years old,” he said.

“Sadly, there are a lot of people who drown every year, and a lot of those deaths will be entirely preventable.”

According to Royal Life Saving Australia National Drowning Report 2022, 339 people lost their lives to drowning between 1 July 2021 and 30 June 2022. An estimated 686 further people experienced a non-fatal drowning incident. mailcommunity.com.au

The Yarra River through Warburton has been raging in recent times with heavy rainfall creating dangerous conditions.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG Mr Marler said there are a lot of hazards in rivers at the moment.

“Logs and trees in moving waters present a real hazard to swimmers and paddlers because if you get swept onto those logs, the force of the water can hold you in those posi-

tions and once you tire you can be held under the water and drown,” he said.

“At the end of the day, all the experience in the world won’t save you if you do end up in the wrong place. Try to mitigate the risks and be conscious of where you’re choosing

to swim, check the water first by walking out and probing with a stick and try not to swim in moving water because of the risks of what’s under the water that you can’t see and keep out of those dangerous areas.”

Rivers and creeks had the highest percentage of the death count, at 34 per cent, with beaches miles off with 21 per cent in second.

Swimming and recreating were the top activity at the time of a drowning incident at 22 per cent.

Mr Marler said the third consecutive La Nina event also continues to make river conditions more dangerous.

“We’ve got really saturated soils and lots of inflows in our high alpine streams like the Yarra River, which is great for kayakers, but definitely poses big problems with more water and stronger river currents,” he said.

“Find an eddy, where the water is still and guarded upstream by some sort of barrier, whether it’s a log or a rock, that is deflecting the flow into the centre of the stream into the deepest part of the river, never swim alone, always in groups and avoid alcohol or a big feed right before swimming as well.”

An eddy is an area of swirling water that forms behind an obstacle like a boulder in a river. Often the water in the eddy will reverse the direction of flow and will flow upstream. Eddies are almost always formed on the inside of the corner when a river turns a corner.

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Recognising local youth an organised rubbish pick up event. Candice said she has learnt the power of asking, by just posing the question or idea to someone often enough to get them on board and involved.

She wants to see the perception changed that young people can’t be entrusted with power and that she enjoys the energy of a community coming together.

The lead volunteers of the Rural rainbows group, Harry, Teddy, Jessy, Kirsten and Razz were honoured with the Community Improvement award for creating a safe space among the local LGBTQIA+. Harry was in attendance to accept the award and said he has enjoyed hanging out with the people who have joined the group and connecting with them on the base level of just having a conversation. Harry said the group has been very popular and he encourages anyone with a similar idea for safe space to do so, and wants to change the perception that young people are apathetic.

Klarissa is boarding at the Worawa Aboriginal College in Healesville, leaving her friends and family in the Tiwi Islands to learn in the Yarra Ranges. Klarissa shared her story for the ABC’s Takeover Melbourne and told of her desire to keep culture strong, something which she does by speaking three Indigenous languages and her artwork. Klarissa said she enjoys camping on country and watching the stars at night, remembering the stories her grandma told her. This year, Klarissa won first prize for her get Up! Stand Up! Show Up! poster and got to paint the boots of Hawthorn AFL players for the Indigenous Round.

Representatives of the Yarra Ranges Youth Advisory Group, Yarra Ranges Youth ambassadors and FreeZa committee members attended the event.

The entire event was organised and run by the Celebrating YOUth committee and all award winners received a certificate, a $200 gift voucher and a framed piece of artwork from Indigenous artist Billy-Jay O’Toole.

By Callum Ludwig 2022 has been a big year for youth in the Yarra Ranges, as they got out and made significant community contributions as we emerged from two years of interruptions.

The 15th edition of the Celebrating YOUth awards was held at the Mooroolbark Community Centre on Wednesday 7 December to recognise some of the fine efforts of local young people.

There were 31 nominations in six categories: Resilience, Passionate Advocate, Creative Arts, Young Entrepreneurs, Environmental Sustainability, Community Improvement and special recognition for a local winner of ABC’s TakeOver Melbourne competition.

The Resilience award was first and it went to Burmese refugee Byak Hlei Par Kang. Byak missed a fair portion of her formal education in the time it took for her and her family to make it to Australia, but she knuckled down and the award recognises her academic efforts.

Byak said learning English fluently has been her biggest challenge and she is still learning so that she can speak fluently and confidently with her friends. Byak’s advice to other young people in a tough spot was to never be negatively affected by their surroundings.

The Passionate Advocate award went to Telita Lenore, who was involved in the Victorian Youth Parliament’s push to mandate a Reconciliation Action Plan for all schools in Victoria.

Local schools had taken notice with Mount Lilydale Mercy College having previously enquired how the school can use the information provided in the RAP to address the upcoming compulsory teaching of cultural connection to the land in science.

Hayden Pierson took out the Creative Arts award for his work with the MISFIT Project, a peer-to-peer initiative with young people in the YarraRanges offering options to be involved in theatre groups, hangouts, writing

Nominees and Award Winners with Yarra Ranges Council Deputy Mayor Sophie Todorov Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG groups, camps, dungeons and dragons sessions and a glee club. Hayden couldn’t attend in person as he was involved in the MISFIT end-of-year performance but left a powerful video message encouraging adults to get on a similar level as young people and let them speak while listening to hear, rather than respond.

The Young Entrepreneurs Award was presented to Blaise, Oskar and Geordie from OBG Productions, who started up their video production company over the last two years to fill a gap in local talent. They have exceeded their

customer expectations while also working and meeting a lot of cool different people. The three boys encouraged any young person with a passion to follow it, bring their skills together with others and bring it to life, and they wantto see the perception that young people are lazy and unmotivated change.

Candice Farrugia-Roberts was the winner of the Environmental Sustainability award, as she studies botany and is making the effort to be a ‘litter fairy who endeavours to keep rubbish off our streets and out of the environment, hosting clothes swaps and with plans for

Yarra Yering claims six wins at Yarra Valley Wine Show On Thursday 8 December, the 2022 Langton’s Yarra Valley Wine Show Trophy Awards Presentation was held at Harriett at Hubert Estate, Coldstream.

A celebration of the Yarra Valley wine community, guests enjoyed a delicious three-course menu, designed by Hubert Estate’s Executive Chef, Michael Smith, accompanied by the Gold Medal wines of the 2022 Wine Show.

Reigning champions, Yarra Yering, received six trophies, including Best Red Variety or Blend, Best Cabernet Blend, Best Shiraz, Best Red Wine in Show, Most Successful Vineyard and Most Successful Exhibitor. For the second year in a row, Coldstream Hills and Greenstone Vineyards took out the trophies for Best Sparkling Wine and Best White Variety or Blend, respectively, with the 2016 Coldstream Hills Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir and the 2022 Greenstone Vineyards Estate Series Sauvignon Blanc.

The 2022 Giant Steps Yarra Valley Pinot Noir Syrah Rose was awarded Best Rose, and Best Cabernet Sauvignon was awarded to Punt Road Wines for their 2021 Block 3 Cabernet Sauvignon.

Best Pinot Noir was awarded to Oakridge Wines for their 2021 Oakridge Vineyard Series Hazeldene Vineyard Pinot Noir.

This year, two new trophies were added; Best Small Batch Red Wine, for wines produced in quantities of less than 75 dozen bottles (or equivalent), and Best Small Producer, for the producer with the best average score of their Top 3 entries and a total production of under 50 tonnes.

The inaugural winners were Warramunda Estate Liv Zak 2021 Malbec for Best Small Batch Red Wine and Thousand Candles for Best Small Producer. But it was Medhurst Estate who took home the ultimate glory, awarded Champion Wine of Show, Best White Wine in Show and Best Chardonnay for their 2021 Medhurst Yarra Valley Chardonnay.

Trophy-winning wines were available to be tasted by attendees after the awards presentations.

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Local wines went through judging to find the best drop out of the bunch.

Yering 2021 Agincourt Cabernet Malbec – 95 points Best Shiraz Sponsored by Laffort Australia Yarra Yering 2021 Underhill – 96 points Best Red Variety or Blend Sponsored by RNG Lawyers - Yarra Yering 2021 Dry Red Wine No. 3 – 96 points Best Small Batch White Wine - Not awarded Best Small Batch Red Wine Sponsored by MCC Label - Warramunda Estate Liv Zak 2021 Malbec – 95 points Best Small Producer Sponsored by Marilyn and Sons - Thousand Candles Best White Wine in Show Sponsored by Seguin Moreau - Medhurst Yarra Valley 2021 Chardonnay - 96 points Best Red Wine in Show Sponsored by Barrique Wine Store - Yarra Yering 2021 Dry Red Wine No. 3 – 96 points Champion Wine of Show Sponsored by Mercurey Australia - Medhurst Yarra Valley 2021 Chardonnay - 96 points Most Successful Exhibitor Sponsored by Langton’s - Yarra Yering Most Successful Vineyard Sponsored by Langley & Co. - Yarra Yering The full results will be available to view at: https://www.yarravalleywineshow.com.au/ results from 10am Friday 9th December.

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Yarra Valley Wine Show winners have been announced.

Pictures: REDFISH BLUEFISH PHOTOGRAPHY & CREATIVE The 2022 Langton’s Yarra Valley Wine Show trophy winners are: Best Sparkling Wine Sponsored by Winequip Lallemand - Coldstream Hills 2016 Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir – 95 points Best Chardonnay Sponsored by Healesville Hotel - Medhurst Yarra Valley 2021 Chardonnay - 96 points Best White Variety or Blend Sponsored by Trumer Pils - Greenstone 2022 Estate Series Sauvignon Blanc – 95 points

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Rose Sponsored by AgNova - Giant · Best Steps 2022 Yarra Valley Pinot Noir Syrah Rose – 95 points

Pinot Noir Sponsored by Riedel · Best Oakridge Vineyard Series 2021 Hazeldene Vineyard Pinot Noir – 96 points

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Cabernet Sauvignon Sponsored by · Best Midland Insurance Brokers - Punt Road

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Wines 2021 Block 3 Cabernet Sauvignon – 95 points Best Cabernet Blend Sponsored by BHF Technologies (Blue H2O Filtration) - Yarra

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NEWS

Tourism optimistic for summer trade

By Parker McKenzie Tourism bodies are confident that 2022 will be without much of the pain experienced by the industry in 2020 and 2021, however, it isn’t without challenges for Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges businesses.

Yarra Ranges Tourism CEO Simon O’Callaghan said the tourism industry is expecting a strong summer period of trade.

“We are balancing that with a lot of businesses still recovering from the pandemic, a lot of things haven’t quite got back to normal,” he said.

“The whole industry is optimistic but we also have workforce challenges at the current time, which will make maximizing patronage difficult.”

According to the Victoria Tourism Industry Council, 4.2 million domestic travellers will pass through Melbourne airport over the Christmas period.

Mr O’Callaghan said it is an important period for the region because people have time off to visit for extended periods.

“We are encouraging people to stay longer, that’s one thing we’ve been working to speak to our visits and make sure they make the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges more than just a day trip,” he said.

“Our industries have had goods and facilities impacted by the recent floods, which we need to be conscious of. There are businesses out there that have been delivering great services, but there is still a shortage of supply.

“The great news is that we are full of over 80 different wineries and distilleries; most of their production has been well kept so we can put it on show for visitors.”

Victoria Tourism Industry Council CEO Felicia Mariani supported O’Callaghan’s optimism and said the holiday period looks very

The festive holidays are shaping up as a strong trading period for tourism businesses throughout the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley.

Picture: ON FILE different than it did 12 months ago.

“December 2021 saw the emergence of Omicron along Australia’s eastern coast, triggering border restrictions and throwing holiday plans into chaos,” she said.

“This year will be the first Christmas travel period without border restrictions since 2019, and consumer travel demand is at an all-time high.”

1.7 million international travellers are forecasted to pass through Melbourne airport, representing 95 per cent of pre-Covid travel.

“At our lowest point in March 2021, total tourism spend in our state had fallen from the lofty height of $32.5 billion to just $9.8 billion,”

Ms Mariani said.

“Fast forward 12 months to March 2022, and that number had climbed to $16.5 billion; and three months later to June, total tourism spend had more than doubled to $20.7 billion.”

Mr O’Callaghan said locals to the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley play a key role as ambassadors for the region.

“When you see a visitor, help make their day and point them in the direction of our hidden secrets,” he said.

“We are trying to get them to visit as many different businesses as possible, to spread their spending around the region.”

Rain delays for Yarra Valley berry growers

By Callum Ludwig The heavy rainfall we are continuing to see across the Yarra Ranges is posing a risk to some of our freshest fruits and juiciest berries.

Some of the early harvest varieties of berries have had to be pushed back due to the recent weather conditions, with pickers unable to pick the wet fruit at the risk of damaging it.

Owner of Jay Berries Jon Stewart said from every farmer’s point of view, most of the challenges this year have been related to the wet season.

“We’ve got issues with wet soils, which are creating rots and delaying harvests. For example, I might decide that this week I need to start picking red currants, but at the moment I can’t be sure if they will be ready this week or the week after, whereas previously it has been far more predictable,” he said.

“At least this year, we haven’t got problems with casual workers, we find that with the influx of tourists looking for visa extensions then I’m getting plenty of inquiries which is welcome after the last two years. Only problem is I can’t now guarantee them a full week’s work.”

Jay Berries also offers U-Pick, where visitors can visit the farm and pick their own fruit off of the trees, which is also slowed down by poor weather as people stay inside or seek shelter.

Mr Stewart said his crops can suffer a day or so of rain before problems start to develop.

“This week we’ve had fine weather, then a few showers coming through which is not a big issue, but some fruit can’t be picked wet, definitely strawberries. After one day, you might notice chip damage which downgrades them from first-grade to second-grade fruit,” he said.

“With strawberries, you notice two things happen. The direct contact of the rain on the soft flesh makes the flesh break down and just go to pulp. Secondly, the flavour is not there when it rains, even the fruit that ripens we need the sunshine to increase the sugars.” mailcommunity.com.au

A local pop

By Renee Wood Following reports of a French champagne shortage for the festive season, Yarra Valley residents are being encouraged to ditch the internationals and get behind local producers.

Growth in global demand, supply chain issues and a lower champagne harvest have been raised as reasons why bottle shops could be starting to look bare however, local wineries say they have plenty of stock to fill your bubbly needs.

Coombe Cellar Door Wine Club Manager Min Gallagher said the Yarra Valley has some of the best method champagne noir and sparkling wines in Australia which can stand their own against international bottles.

“We’ve got a unique soil composition here in the Yarra Valley so it’s really old, rich volcanic soil, which means that we get a level of depth and flavour in our bubbles that’s not necessarily achieved overseas,” Ms Gallagher said.

Ms Gallagher said although locally produced wines won’t be called champagne, they are created in the same methods.

“If you look at a sparkling wine bottle that says method traditional or bottle fermented or methode champenoise... those are wines that are fermented in the bottle and made in the same way as the champagne,” she said.

Methode champenoise is a sparkling wine production method where wine undergoes a second fermentation process in the bottle to produce carbon dioxide.

Supporting Australian producers these holidays will also help to boost the sector after several setbacks over the last couple of years, with bushfires rolling into Covid rolling into storms and floods.

“The Australian market needs locals to shop local this year… particularly this year is maybe going to be on track again for another challenging vintage because of all the rain.

“Fingers crossed we’re going to get a bit of sunshine and that might actually push the fruit along but most producers in the Yarra Valley lost 50 per cent of their yield last year.”

But the drop in yield didn’t affect the bubbles, with Ms Gallagher saying there is an abundance of stock across all wineries.

“People need to look local this year and shop for Australian sparkling wine because it’s an incredible quality and standard and we’ve got an abundance of it so there’s no need to be without this Christmas and New Years.”

Proseccos, sparkling wine with chardonnay and pinot noir, Blanc de Blanc are just some of the varieties that will give you that glorious pop to start the festive celebrations.

Online wine clubs, cellar doors and bottle shops will have local wine selections you can choose from.

Paying a visit to cellar doors will also allow for tastings to make sure taste buds enjoy the sparkle.

“I really encourage people to come and visit over the summer months with international tourism and in a sense domestic tourism down somewhat… We need all the visitation that we can get.”

Toast with local sparkling this festive season.

Picture: SUPPLIED Berry season is being delayed by rain, with strawberries particularly affected.

Picture: ON FILE Tuesday, 13 December, 2022

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NEWS

Lauren’s journey ahead

By Callum Ludwig An amazing fundraising effort will allow Wandin East resident Lauren Sneddon to access treatment with a high chance of drastically improving her quality of life.

In early September 2021, Ms Sneddon’s health started to deteriorate and after a total of two lumber punctures, three CT scans, four MRIs and 10 blood tests, she was diagnosed with a form of the chronic neurological disease Multiple Sclerosis, or MS on 23 March 2022.

On Saturday 29 October, Ms Sneddon’s childhood friend Kane Williams ran 100km from Lilydale Lake up the Warburton trail to Warburton and back and a gala was organsied and held in November to raise funds for her Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) treatment in Monterrey, Mexico.

Ms Sneddon said that Mr Williams did incredibly well and the gala was phenomenal.

I started Kane’s run with him on a bike, and did 20km which was huge for me, but it was so unbelievable tough for him, he was in quite a bit of pain by the end. In the 48 hours from the time he started, his efforts raised over $5000 alone, she said.

For the gala, a lot of my friends and family reached out to entered friends and the community and some of the items we were able to sell were enormous. We raised just under $50,000 in that one night, there was something for everyone and everybody, from $50 up to $15,000.

Some of the items sold at the gala included four rounds of golf at the exclusive The National Gold Club in Cape Schnack, two tickets to Mary Poppins at Her Majesty’s Theatre, a night’s accommodation at Crown and the $15,000 corporate box for 15 people.

Ms Sneddon said she would like to hope that her story has had an impact on raising awareness for MS.

L-R: Kane Williams and Lauren Sneddon at Lilydale Lake before Kane’s big run. 302981 Picture: ON FILE

Lauren Sneddon embraces Kane Williams after he completed his 100km to fundraise for her treatment.

Picture: SUPPLIED

People have started to follow my journey, in the hopes understanding it a bit better for their loved ones that may have it or for themselves who may have it. I really am hoping that it leads to more people being able to get access to a treatment like HSCT either here in Australia or at least has people asking more questions about it, she said.

MS is something that in many ways can be so silent, because it’s happening inside of you even though there are physical signs. It’s one of those things with six degrees of separation, someone tends to know someone who’s got MS even though it is a small percentage of people who have it in Australia.

The gala raised a total of $46,904.05 and together with the $74,617 raised on the GoFundMe page, Ms Sneddon is going to be able to travel to Mexico with her mother in support to access the potentially life-changing HSCT treatment, which has successfully helped over

not get up or open my eyes before ten or eleven the next day. Especially at the moment, it’s a busy period with Christmas and lots happening, the fatigue has taken its toll on my body and I cannot function in a big week anymore.

Ms Sneddon has relapse-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) which results in unexpected attacks and periods of recovery and remission afterwards. In MS cases, the body’s own immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the fatty material “called myelin” around the nerves. This results in a process called demyelination where patches of nerves become exposed and then scarred, which renders the nerves unable to communicate messages properly and at risk of further degeneration.

If you would like to support Ms Sneddon, her husband and their two young children Leni and Franklin, you can donate to the GoFundMe here: www.gofund.me/484f7c15.

3000 patients to halt their MS at an impressive 80-90 per cent success rate.

Ms Sneddon is scheduled to make the journey at the beginning of March 2023, just a year since her diagnosis.

Ms Sneddon said her condition has deteriorated a bit since she last spoke to the Star Mail in October, but it may just be an inflammation.

The numbness in my hands and toes is a constant thing, but the fatigue side of MS has struck me worse than it has at any other time since my diagnosis, I would say I’ve probably deteriorated a little bit and this may just be an inflammation so I’m hoping that it does go away when I have the treatment, but the fatigue side of MS has probably struck me much worse than it has at any other time in my in in my disease, she said.

I find myself going to bed on Thursdays and Fridays at five or six o’clock, and I literally can-

Grassfires move so quickly, it’s impossible to outrun them.

This summer, significant pasture growth in paddocks and roadsides means that fast-moving grassfires will be a serious risk across Victoria. Rural grassfires can be just as dangerous as bushfires, and can actually spread even faster, travelling at speeds of up to 25km/h. If you live close to open paddocks or grasslands, you could be at risk and need to be prepared. On Extreme or Catastrophic Fire Danger Rated days, the safest option is to leave early.

Plan. Act. Survive. Go to vic.gov.au/knowfire

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NEWS

Hampers helping locals

By Renee Wood HICCI has started providing Christmas hampers to local families after community and businesses have generously donated to the appeal.

Up to 170 hampers will be given to locals with a room also filled with donated toys that families can choose children’s gifts from.

Emergency Relief Manager Sheree Laumen said this year’s appeal is a smaller scale than usual but the team has done their best to provide something to those in need.

“We recognise it’s a special time of year so we do our best to have something happening and with all the great stuff from the community, we’ve been able to put together a good program so every family will get a hamper and children will get a gift voucher and a toy,” Ms Laumen said.

There were earlier concerns about the appeal being in jeopardy due to the reduction of available funds from a lack of opportunity to fundraise in recent years however, Ms Laumen said support has ramped up in the last two weeks.

Ms Laumen said items and monetary donations have been received by local churches, donation giving boxes and business donations.

Local residents have also spent time making items such as wooden trucks and knitted toys for Santa sacks.

“We appreciate even the tiniest little thing that comes in because it all makes a big difference and you can see the joy that it brings people to give and know that they’re helping a family that’s doing it tough. It’s blessings for both, the receiver and the giver.”

Carol Kimpton and Sheree Laumen from HICCI in the room filled with generously donated toys.

Pictures: RENEE WOOD St Brigid’s students also attended HICCI to help package up the hampers.

“It’s a real team and community effort and it’s wonderful to be able to bless people

because it’s not always a fun time of year for people that don’t have family.

“We have a lot of single people who don’t have anybody, so if that little parcel brings them

Hampers all ready to go to local families. a bit of Christmas cheer, that’s a great thing.

“It helps them to know that they’re not completely alone, that there’s some people that care about them.”

Give to those in need and support Yarra Ranges trees

Deputy Mayor Sophie Todorov and Neal Taylor from Holy Fools at the council wishing tree.

Picture: SUPPLIED

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Yarra Ranges Council Deputy Mayor, Sophie Todorov said that Council is a proud supporter of this initiative and thanked the community for their continued generosity.

“To make sure families in the Yarra Ranges have a good Christmas, we have set up several Wishing Trees at our Community Links so our community can donate gifts for those families,” Cr Todorov said.

“Donating a gift can change a life and bring a smile to the faces of children and their families at this special time of year.”

“Our links are open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, so just come in and talk to the team here, let them know and leave food under the tree.”

If you can’t make it to one of these locations, you can find out more about other donation collection sites by visiting the Holy Fools, HICCI or Philanthropic Collective’s website.

Find out more here: https://www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Business-Yarra-Ranges/ Your-Reason-Your Season/CommunityWishing-Trees

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The Star Mail is published by Paul Thomas for Star News Group Pty Ltd ABN 98 238 557 339. All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For terms and conditions please visit www.mailcommunity.com.au Print Post Number PP33445700014.

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ping them off at your local Community Link or charity.”

Wishing Trees are up in the Civic Centre

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Yarra Ranges Council is working to make Christmas a little brighter for all, but it needs the help of the community to do it.

Several Christmas wishing trees have been set up at Community Links across the Yarra Ranges to give back to those who are doing it tough.

Donations of toys, non-perishable goods and pet food will go toward supporting local charities including Holy Fools, local food banks and Animal Aid. Yarra Ranges Holy Fools CEO Neal Taylor said the appeal was even more important this year, given the financial difficulties brought on by Covid-19, and the storms and floods.

“This year we’re aiming to hand out 500 food hampers because we know the demand for help is higher than ever.

Understandably it’s a tough time for everyone, but this is a great way to give back to the community and make a difference for people who really need it and we’re really trying to meet that growing demand.”

“Next time you’re out shopping, please consider picking up some items and drop-

Before you decide please call one of our friendly staff

9739 6868 www.williammatthewsfunerals.com.au Tuesday, 13 December, 2022

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MAIL 11

ADVERTORIAL

The Eagle Twilight Christmas The Eagle Twilight Christmas, held from 5pm until 9pm on Tuesday, 20th December, is the premier event of the Eagle Christmas Festival.

While the Festival itself runs from December 1st until December 24th, the Eagle Twilight Christmas is a once off community Christmas event held onsite at the Eagle to raise money for Mums Supporting Families in Need (MSFIN).

MSFIN is a grass roots, local charity working to support local families doing it tough. Working with over 80 welfare agencies to provide material aid support for families in crisis, the charity aims to ensure no family is living without their basic daily needs being met, and that no

child goes without essentials.

For a community minded business like the Eagle, it was the perfect charity to support.

“The Eagle is a business run by locals with deep roots in our community” explains Sarah Cottrill, Eagle Marketing Manager, “and it’s wonderful to be able to open up our world class facilities for the community, in support of the community. Supporting MFSIN is something that we are very proud to be able to do.”

The Eagle Twilight Christmas will be held on 20th December from 5pm until 9pm. “We chose the 20th December because it’s the date when all the locals schools

break up for the holidays!” Sarah enthuses. “We thought – what better way to finish up the school term than with a family friendly Christmassy celebration!”

The Eagle will be offering heavily discounted $50 Family Tickets during the Twilight Christmas event, enabling more local families to ride, and with all profits being donated to MSFIN. Gondola rides will be available until 9pm, including the new green and red ‘Christmas’ gondolas!

A sausage sizzle will complement the Eagle café’s delicious menu: festive sweets and treats to get even the grouchiest grinch into the spirit of the season! Kids activities

will run throughout the evening, along with free face painting and roving entertainment. A Christmas concert will be held under the gondolas, with local performers eager to get together to support this fantastic event.

Even Santa himself is coming to visit during the evening! He knows there’s always something on at the Arthurs Seat Eagle this Christmas!

Th e Eagle is open every day until Christmas. It will be closed on Christmas Day, before reopening for a jam-packed Summer Festival from December 26th until January 26th.

For more details visit aseagle.com.au. To donate to MSFIN visit msfin.org.au

12582128-MS49-22

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NEWS

Keen carolers at a recent rehearsal Pictures: SUPPLIED Healesville Carols was well attended in 2019.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Carols make return

By Renee Wood The Healesville Carols event is returning for the first time to Queens Park since 2019, with local churches and community groups collaborating to produce the event once again.

Liberty Church Community Pastor Laura Hawting said there is a lot of anticipation in the community.

“Everyone just seems really, really excited to be able to celebrate Christmas as a community together in one of the ways that as a local Healesville community we have traditionally celebrated Christmas,” Ms Hawting said.

Performances include the community carols band, local soloists, schools and community groups, the Healesville Community Choir, Badger Creek Primary and Women’s Choir.

Pre-show fun and festivities are being held prior to the stage entertainment with food trucks, craft, a roaming magician, CFA Santa visits plus much more going ahead.

“The whole carols this year has an Aus-

traliana theme, which will be a bit of fun and you get to see that very visibly throughout the night.”

Ms Hawting said the carols event has multiple layers of meaning and enjoyment for the community, with everyone enjoying the chance to sing a long and get together with friends and family.

“There’s rich meaning and heritage for the carol songs themselves that people love to sing and they’ve become a part of people’s Christmas traditions over the years.

“The event itself just provides a great opportunity for people to come together, picnic and catch up over the busy Christmas season to celebrate the end of a year and look forward to the coming of a new year.”

Liberty Church is a sponsor along side long time sponsor YV Financial Services, and Four Pillars has come on board this year.

The event is free while families can also choose to purchase items on the night from vendors.

“We are just so grateful for all the support that we that we have, from businesses and community groups alike, whether it’s big or small. It really is a collaboration that makes it possible,” she said.

“A big part of the vision for the carols is that it would be a free event that’s accessible to anyone and everyone is welcome.”

In the lead up, local children can join a colouring-in competition with entries available from HICCI and Freedom Healesville.

Crowd games and competitions will also be held on the night.

The pre-show fun and activities begin from 5.30pm before carols start at 7pm.

The first half of the carols will include kid friendly entertainment if families need to leave early.

If you’d like to support or partner with Healesville Carols in the future, contact Ms Hawting at laura@libertyfamilychurch.net.au

Teach kids about recycling by festive craft If the thought of stocking up the craft box on top of everything else that needs doing this Christmas is an added stress, then take a look around your home.

“It’s amazing what you can create from what you’ve got with no need to go to the shops. Reuse and recycle what you have around your house, turn on the carols, turn off the screens, then slow down and connect with your kids,” said craft expert, Shannon Wong-Nizic, who runs online parenting resource, @ohcreativeday.

Here are Shannon’s top tips for creative, ecofriendly Christmas craft: Reuse and recycle – In a season where excess and over-spending is promoted, be inspired by what you already have at home and reuse and recycle to create new Christmas projects. Get in the habit of collecting household items such as toilet roll holders, cardboard, scrap paper and cereal packets that can be turned into works of art!

Keep things simple and low-mess this festive season – Have a core set of materials for Christmas crafting that you can use again and again across different projects. For us, this means Pintor paint markers, scissors and sellotape. These items sit in a basket that can be pulled out at any time and packed up super quickly. I’ll often just leave the basket on the table as an enticing invitation and my children devise their own creative festive projects.

Craft connects us to loved ones far away – Handmade Christmas cards are such an easy but beautiful way to spread festive cheer, near and far. Try cutting up old cards and gift-tags, then re-make into new. It can be so rewarding to re-use old cards which often just get thrown away and creatively re-purpose them (and a cheaper alternative than buying new too!)

Let go of the expectations and just create – There is no such thing as ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ when it comes to creating with children. This is a time of the year when we can carry many expectations about how we want things to go and look which just creates even more stress.

Sit down with the kids, loosen your control on the agenda and just create. Enjoy the pro-

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Teach kids about recycling through Christmas craft. cess, don’t stress about the product.

that you value creativity – Joining in · Show signals to your children that you value and

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make time for getting creative. Model that it’s okay to feel frustrated when your creative designs don’t turn out the way you envisioned.

Model asking questions and curiosity - both important parts of the creative process!

Creating creates conversation – Busy hands makes conversation flow. Enjoy the chatter

Warburton Carols coming up

By Callum Ludwig The Warburton Carols by Candlelight event is set to return after a three-year hiatus, hosted by the Warburton Advancement League.

The event will take place from 6.30pm on Friday 23 December in the grassed area between the Warburton Holiday Park and Warburton Water World. Carols organiser Bernie Peeler said past carols in Warburton have held nearly 2000 people.

“It’s always a really nice opportunity for locals to catch up with people right before Christmas, on a nice quiet evening in between all the busyness of Christmas, just to sit down, take in a bit of stillness and just enjoy life,” he said.

“People can bring picnic blankets and food and spread out on the nice grass and enjoy.”

The last Warburton carols held in 2019 were hosted at the Warburton Recreation reserve, with the change of venue aiming to slightly reduce numbers to help with the management of the event.

Mr Peeler said the hope is that the space can become one that is used for more events in future.

“We’re hoping it’ll be a really nice size because we’re thinking the event will be a touch a bit smaller than there’s been in the past, which is a bit what we are aiming for. It’s going to focus more on people from the Valley rather than friends of friends who have come from far away,” he said.

“This will probably be the first event that’s run on the beautiful, big grassy area down there and I think it’s part of the plan to have some entertainment events on.”

Small carol sessions in the past couple of years have been held at the River Valley Church and in the Warburton township in the absence of full-on events.

Mr Peeler said it will be good to reclaim something that has become a bit of an institution of Warburton in the carols.

“Like so many other things, coming back together and the fact that people are able to catch up is really good,” he said.

“People have been thinking ‘Oh, it would be great to get back to our larger venues where we can make a lovely evening of it.”

A shuttle bus will be running from the La La Falls carpark to the carols.

Picture: SUPPLIED

that comes along with creating alongside your little artists!

Shannon Wong is a teacher, mum of three and avid crafter. An enthusiastic fan of pom poms, PVA and paint, she runs popular blog and online parenting resource dedicated to all things creative, https://ohcreativeday.com/ and has over 40,000 followers on Instagram.

To download Shannon’s free Christmas craft templates, visit: www.pilotpen.com.au

The last carols held in Warburton in 2019.

Tuesday, 13 December, 2022

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MAIL 13

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NEWS

Last chance to place votes Tom Allman has decked out his Gillis Street house in Millgrove.

A colourful Christmas scene.

Stunning displays

By Callum Ludwig December has begun and all the Christmas ornaments are being dug around in anticipation of the big day on 25 December.

The Yarra Ranges is home to a few spectacular lights displays to take in at night and some of the merriest residents really do go all out.

Millgrove resident Tom Allman said he started putting up Christmas lights when his kids were young and now they are almost 40.

“It is great to see all of the young families and kids’ faces when they come by and look at it, so I just kept doing it. This year, I’ve got two new bells and a Cookie Monster, I try and make it a bit different every year,” he said.

“I tried to even out the lights with the number of blow-up inflatables so as not to overcorowd with either, and I’ve tried to blend them together like having the purple lights up against the green wall of my house.”

“It just gives me a good feeling and I think with Covid and other things that have been happening in the world, it’s good to give something if it makes someone else happy for even just a day.”

Mr Allman’s property is on Gillis Street in Millgrove.

Seville resident Will Eastmure said he is in his 23rd year of decorating his property with lights.

“I have about an acre and a half and I do out the whole property, front and rear. It’s the first time since Covid began that I have been able to do it again, and everyone is welcome to stroll

A corridor of Christmas fun at Will Eastmure’s house in Seville. around the property,” he said.

“In the past, I’ve always had a sausage sizzle, lollies, soft drink and Christmas cake for the kids and wine for the adults as well as bringing Santa out on Christmas Eve.”

Pictures: SOPHIE MASTAING

Mr Eastmure’s lights display can be seen on the top of the hill in Seville and he will be opening up to the public every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from dark until 10.30pm in the lead-up to Christmas.

Christmas cheer from your local CFAs

By Callum Ludwig Local CFAs are getting in the festive spirit and preparing a range of activities for the whole family.

Here is a list of where and when you can expect to celebrate Christmas time with your local brigade: Seville Rural Fire Brigade’s Santa run is on Christmas, Saturday 24 December from 1pm to 5pm. One truck will be patrolling the township streets in Seville while another will head out to Seville East before culminating in a big traditional water fight on Capri Close in Seville.

Wandin CFA’s Santa Run will be on Friday 23 December starting at about 5.30pm.

Hillcrest CFA will be packaging up 80kg of lollies for Santa to hand out on their annual runs through Don valley, Launching Place and Woori Yallock. On Sunday 18 December 18th, Santa will be visiting the residents of Don Valley and parts of Launching place from 3.30pm and will be visiting Woori Yallock and the rest of Launching Place from 5.00pm on Wednesday 21 December.

Yellingbo CFA is holding a Santa run on Thursday 22 December from 6.45pm. Listen out for the sirens to know that Santa is on his way, with lollies for all of the kids.

Warburton Fire Brigade has arranged for Santa to join in at the Warburton Carols on Friday 23 December before touring Warburton, East Warburton and Big Pats Creek from

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This year’s Yarra Ranges Council Christmas Window Competition is celebrating the Yarra Ranges’ beautiful communities, resilient businesses, and all things merry and bright.

First year entrants, Rob and Judy Thompson from Vintage & Collectables Marketplace in Lilydale said it was great opportunity to spread the Christmas cheer.

“For us it’s our first Christmas in Lilydale and we wanted to bring some joy to Clark Street,” Rob said.

“We have so many Christmas things in our shop here that we were able to do a really nice display and brighten up our windows. We’ve designed our window decoration to embrace a combination of craft and retail and have shaped some timber coat hangers into a Christmas tree to represent the vintage clothing available and the selection of retail items available to purchase.”

“We also have a metre tall Christmas elf to watch over festivities. It’s a great bit of fun and just a great wholesome way to spread the Christmas cheer and promote our township and make it look nice for visitors.”

Residents who vote for their favourite window go into the running to win prizes all while supporting local businesses.

There are four local prizes up for grabs from the Urban, Hills, Valley and Upper categories.

The businesses with the most votes from each category will also receive a hamper of locally sourced goodies.

Yarra Ranges Council Deputy Mayor, Sophie Todorov said businesses were getting into the Christmas spirit across the region.

“Every year, our businesses make a great effort to dress their windows and get involved with the competition and each year we see the number of entries becoming more creative,” Cr Todorov said.

“While we have a range of fantastic prizes up for grabs, this isn’t about who wins or loses; it’s about coming together as a community to provide everyone with a fantastic shopping experience in our region.”

“We have the opportunity to provide a unique Christmas shopping experience to the public while also increasing visitor numbers which is why participating is so important, so let us show everyone our sparkle this Christmas.”

Voting closes on 15 December. For more information and to vote visit: https:// www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Business-Yarra-Ranges/Your-Reason-YourSeason/Yarra-Ranges Christmas-Window-Competition

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Hillcrest CFA’s trucks are looking a bit more festive this time of year. midday on Christmas Eve.

CFA has a kindly-donat· Wesburn-Millgrove ed letterbox from Sandleford that has direct access to the North Pole for any letters to Santa, and they will have Santa available for photos at the station on Sunday 11 December and doing a tour of Wesburn and Millgrove on Christmas Eve. “It’s something the community always loves and while we’ve been lucky enough to

Picture: SUPPLIED

do it in some capacity over the last two years with masks, I think we are as close as back to normal as it can get,” said Captain of the Wesburn/Millgrove CFA Sascha Grant.

Yarra Glen CFA and Coldstream CFA are both holding their Santa visits to local streets on Christmas Eve Saturday 24 December.

Keep an eye and ear out for the trucks and sirens and more information will be provided on their social media pages.

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Judy Thompson from Vintage & Collectables Marketplace with their window display.

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MAIL 15

OPINION

Prepping your body Many people in the community feel anxious at the prospect of repeat immune challenges.

Especially the recurrence of Covid. We hear mixed reports from mild illness to extreme disease with fatal outcomes for some. But this need not make us afraid. In fact there is a lot one can do to bolster the immune response in a safe and integrative manner.

Let me share with you some effective tips.

Your immune system will respond well if your underlying health can be as robust as possible. If this is not the case it would be worth your while to improve your vitality in the following ways.

Eat brilliantly. Now is the best time to prioritise your diet and eat an array of nutritious whole foods. Aim for 15 different foods every day, all colours of the rainbow as this will give you an array of macro and micro nutrients to support health and vitality. Keep your hydration high with pure filtered water and utilise herb teas, cold pressed juices and

Healthy

living Tim Howden

Paediatric Naturopath – Healesville super smoothies.

Increase foods that are high in bioflavonoids, vitamin C and zinc. Citrus, berries, orange vegetables and seeds and nuts should do the trick. Supplement your diet with vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc. These are safe to use with other medications and will do no harm. If you are unsure, seek professional advice.

Engage in appropriate intentional exercise five times a week. Run, walk, dance, swim and

remember to breathe fully and deeply. You don’t need to bust a gut, just get yourself moving. Moderate exercise makes most people feel better in themselves. We are born to move and it will support healthy circulation, mental health and energy production.

Be sure to get enough sleep, remember the hours before midnight are worth double. So tuck in a bit earlier if you’re feeling under-slept.

Your immune system will love you for it too. It does a lot of surveillance when you sleep.

If health is priority in ‘23 then make time to resolve any niggling health problems you have.

Don’t let these things linger, you’re worth it.

Gather around you a team of great health practitioners to guide you on your wellness journey moving forward.

I warmly wish you all the best for a safe and dynamic Christmas and New year. Remember, supporting the foundation pillars of your health will give your body the best outcomes at whatever life throws at you.

The top 10 worst films of 2022 Every year has some film-related bad news and disappointments, but you might say that this year’s incidents were more provocative than most.

In March we had the slap heard across the world: Will Smith assaulted Chris Rock live on stage at the Oscars (and won Best Actor for King Richard a few minutes later). Rock cautiously discussed the slap in public, and Smith issued a slightly stiff apology over social media and received a ten-year ban from the Oscar Academy.

Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore star Ezra Miller has been indicted or accused of multiple felonies, including harassment, burglary, assault, running a compound full of drugs and guns, and an inappropriate, controlling relationship with a young Native American woman. Warner Bros is proceeding with the Flash movie (despite Miller as its problematic lead), and yet they cancelled the Batgirl movie, wasting $70 million in the process.

Don’t Worry Darling was fraught with behind-the-scenes drama: director Olivia Wilde and star Florence Pugh reportedly did not get along, Wilde may be lying about a major casting decision, and Harry Styles is rumoured to have spat on Chris Pine at a promotional event (this didn’t actually happen).

Morbius was universally panned as one of the worst superhero movies ever made, but memes from trolls and ironic fans (“It’s Morbin’ time”) somehow convinced Sony to rerelease Morbius in cinemas, where it bombed to nobody’s surprise but Sony’s.

The Netflix drama Blonde was widely condemned for its heavily-fictionalised and exploitative portrayal of Marilyn Monroe’s life.

The Wonder and Men are both very good films

CARTOON

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with an inverse severe flaw: the former has a bad opening, the latter a bad ending.

On a sadder note, actor Kevin Conroy died of intestinal cancer on November 10. With his formidable gravitas and sensitivity, Conroy’s voice performances in Batman: The Animated Series and the Arkham video games are widely regarded as the definitive portrayal of Batman, and he is deeply missed.

Here are my picks for the top ten worst films of 2022.

10.The Wonder. A prime example of how one bad decision can crash an otherwise great film. The Wonder is tense, well-acted and beautifully shot, but a prologue explicitly describing The Wonder as a film instantly kills any engagement with the plot, as we are now acutely aware of its fakeness.

9. BigBug. A painful inclusion, as I love director Jean-Pierre Jeunet. BigBug is charming and vibrant, but it’s very sitcommy, far too long and a bit too silly for its own good.

8. Jurassic World: Dominion. Features some cool set-pieces and very impressive practical creature effects, but the characters are cardboard cut-outs, the pacing is disjointed, and the plot muddies its own lore and

carries very little real tension.

7. Mother/Android. Features strong performances, sound design and suspense, but also generic designs for its robot antagonists, excessive exposition and yet flimsy worldbuilding.

6. Dual. Has some clever ideas and funny moments, but the overall film is punishingly flat and low-energy. In her double-role as Sara and her clone, Dual wastes Karen Gillan twice.

5. Morbius. A joyfully over-the-top performance from Matt Smith is the only source of life in a dry, meandering thriller with empty characters and incoherent action.

4. Moonfall. A work of disaster porn too hollow to amaze, the characters are bland or obnoxious (or both) and the plot barely makes any sense (and is full of tremendously bad science).

3. Loveland. A tedious sci-fi drama with glacial pacing, no chemistry between the leads, a criminal misuse of Hugo Weaving and an incredibly light, vague sense of conflict. The best part is the cyberpunk cityscape, which feels ripped wholesale from Blade Runner.

2. The Next 365 Days, and 1. 365 Days: This Day. It feels appropriate to discuss these films – sequels to the worst film of 2020 – together. Both are staggeringly vain, poorly-acted slogs in which almost nothing ever happens, choked with pop songs and devoid of passion despite the explicit sex scenes. They’re basically the same boring yet infuriating movie, and are together the worst movie of 2022.

Check back next week for my list of this year’s best films.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

A story of healing PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN A review of The Museum of Broken Things

by Lauren Draper This is the fourth in a series of six reviews featuring the 2022 Readings Young Adult Book Prize.

The Museum of Broken Things, by Melbourne-based author Lauren Draper, is a story of healing from loss and grief.

The protagonist Reece is in her final year of high school. She has recently lost her grandmother, a former renowned surgeon who once inspired her dream of pursuing a medical career.

Worse, having moved from the metropolis to a small country town, Reece desperately misses her old life. We learn that something occurred, causing the teenager to have left her best friend Nina without saying goodbye. As she struggles to make new friends, The Terrible Thing That Happened remains a secret.

Another unknown is what Reece intends to do with the large collection of historical medical books left by her grandmother. Now that she sees herself failing school and having no clear future and career, not to mention becoming a brilliant physician, she contemplates giving away the incredibly rare and valuable medical texts.

But the story’s backbone lies in the mystery surrounding an unusual artefact among Reece’s inheritance. In the process of trying to find out what it is – and why her beloved Nan specifically gifted it to her – the teenager discovers a series of clues that connect her grandmother to the death of some young women in the 1940s.

Reece’s investigation not only unravels a dark page of the town’s history, but also reveals how the past can and continues to impact on the present. More importantly, the journey helps her realise The Terrible Thing That Happened is not her fault. That she is perfectly capable of forging a new life ahead, thanks to the love and support of her family and friends.

The Museum of Broken Things is a fine and fluent read, conveying a sense of humour and resilience even when Reece feels emotionally distraught. Her friends are some of the most colourful and endearing characters in the book, each with their own unique problems to deal with in terms of family and future.

Perhaps the cleverest bit of writing is that Reece persistently tries to contact her other friend Willow, which can appear as a flaw in the plot. When The Terrible Thing That Happened is finally revealed, any careless reader would think it unplausible that Reece is so desperate for a response from Willow.

But when one examines the text really, really carefully – which this reviewer eventually learned to do – it becomes clear that the “flaw” only exists to illustrate the overwhelming sense of loneliness and isolation that Reece experiences. It is moments like her pleading for Willow’s help that demonstrate her powerlessness to either go back or move forward.

The Museum of Broken Things is a heartfelt and heart-warming debut, about young adults losing their way yet somehow finding the courage to map it again. A great example of how something that looks like a “curse” can turn out to be a blessing. mailcommunity.com.au

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MAIL 17

NEWS

Long recovery road ahead

By Renee Wood It’s looking like a long road to recovery for the Melbourne Gun Club in Yering after the devastating flooding which destroyed equipment and infrastructure on the grounds.

After water receded from Victoria Road, members were able to access the site to start the clean up with the landscaping refreshed but many repairs still to go.

Secretary Ben Reed said at the peak of the water, a mining pump pumped out 47 million litres from inside.

Being a flood prone area, the not-for-profit sporting facility is relying on donations and generous volunteers to get back on its feet.

“It’s devastated the members of the Club, we’re really quite shocked it happened,” Mr Reed said.

So far an online fundraiser has garnered great support with $17,000 raised.

Mr Reed said $7,000 of that will go to replacing microphones, while the remainder will go to replacing the kitchen.

“Kitchen benches arrived this week, I believe, and we would love to have the kitchen up and operational by the end of the month fingers crossed we can make that happen, and then it’s really a case all the electronics - it’s amazing the amount of electronics that we have at our facility.”

The club has now arranged a flood relief event for New Years Eve flood relief shoot on Saturday 31 December which will aid in restoring further damages and helping the rebuild.

Mr Reed said the damage is quite phenomenal and the cost is estimated to hit half a million dollars with everything from concrete paths ripped up to the lose of equipment.

“What a lot of people don’t realise is we’re a not for profit club, everything we earn goes back into the club.”

The flood relief event will have most of the

The Melbourne Gun Club is holding a flood relief event to help rebuild after the devastating natural disaster.

The club was only accessible by boat for quite some time before water receded.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Water destroyed a lot of infrastructure and equipment.

disciplines running, including double barrel, single barrel and shooting points score.

The club held it’s first competition over the weekend and Mr Reed said it’s great to start to see people returning, with the social aspect vital

“The social aspect, especially coming off from Covid, is really important because people have been locked away for a very long time.”

The Saturday 31 December event begins 10.30am with practice to start from 9.30am.

for many members.

“We have quite a few senior people who’ve popped down the club and this is how they they’re able to communicate with people because a lot of them live at home by themselves.

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NEWS

Snakes start to slither in

By Callum Ludwig With warmer weather arriving (albeit in fits and spurts), the snakes of the Yarra Ranges are beginning to emerge.

A large snake was spotted in a Warburton backyard over the weekend and there have been three reports of dogs being bitten and occasionally killed by snakes in Wesburn, Wandin and Montrose so far this year.

Founder of wildlife conservation and education business Blacksnake Productions Michael Alexander said while snakes in the area are venomous and dangerous, they are an important part of the wildlife of the region.

“The animals have as much of a right to live here as we do, and it is actually illegal to remove or kill a snake yourself, with fines from $2000 to $5000, as well as being the number one reason for snake bites in Australia with more than 80 per cent of bites caused by people intentionally interacting with snakes,” he said.

“The equivalent of someone trying to catch or relocate a snake because it’s dangerous is like looking at a power point and thinking that’s dangerous, I will stick a fork in it. The best thing to do is either leave it alone if it’s near a bush block or call a snake catcher and if there is a dog involved, make sure they have snake avoidance training from professionals.”

If you find yourself in a situation where a snake is presenting a direct risk to you, an animal or others, or has remained in a location close to your home or business that is dangerous, it is best to call the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) wildlife emergency number at 136 186 and they will refer you on to your nearest local snake catcher. Avoid calling for a snake catcher unless absolutely necessary as snakes will likely leave you alone.

Mr Alexander said one of the best things to do to avoid being surprised by a snake is to keep your property nice and tidy.

“Try and make sure that you’re not providing habitat for snakes or leaving tarps, sheet metal wood lying about and if you have those and are trying to move them, always try and pull them towards you or drag it out so if there is a snake underneath, you aren’t standing over it,” he said.

“Always wear elbow-length gloves if you are putting your hands in and around vegetation or large bits of material so that all the way up your forearm is protected, as well as good

Michael Alexander giving a snake safety information session at Wandin Silvan Field Days this year.

Picture: ON FILE

single time they are frightened or threatened.”

The small-eyed snake and white-lipped snake can also be found all throughout the Yarra Valley, with the former found around Launching Place in particular and the latter known to make a home of Lilydale Lake as well as in the Dandenong Ranges.

There has only been one fatal snake bite so far this year in Australia in Gayndah, Queensland and there were five in 2020 and 2021, including that of an 11-year-old boy who died after his father failed to seek medical attention.

Mr Alexander said if you find yourself very close to a snake, stay still.

“Watch the snake’s reaction because it will most try to get away, they are terrified of us. If it doesn’t move away, move back slowly and avoid sudden movements. If further away, still leave slowly and call a snake catcher,” he said.

“Before a bite even occurs, you need to be prepared. Have a mobile phone on you, and have snakebite bandages around, in your car, on your person if away from your car or house.

A first aid kit and a minimum of two pressure bandages are required for an adult’s leg.”

Mr Alexander recommends having SMART

bandages, invented specifically for snake and funnel-web spider bites. The extremely durable SMART Bandage is 2 metres long and 10cm wide, with a rectangle pictogram that stretches to a square to show when optimal tension has been reached.

“Don’t touch, wash or do anything to the bite site, especially if there is venom on the skin because that’s good and will help identify the type of snake, so don’t worry about chasing after and taking a photo of the snake to identify it,” Mr Alexander said.

“Start applying the bandage from the bottom of the limb if the bite is on the lower end of the limb, if you’re bitten above the joint, start up from the top of the limb, such as from the top and down to the elbow or from the ankle up the limb. Then immobilise it and stay as still as possible to help prevent the venom from spreading.”

Some other local snake catchers include Jessica Bridge in Woori Yallock, Danny Goodwin in Woori Yallock, Russell Grant in Launching Place, Mike Taylor at Healesville Sanctuary, Pete Whybrow in the Black Spur and Raymond Hoser at Snake Busters in Park Orchards which has also covered the Yarra Valley for over 40 years.

footwear, long loose-fitting pants and if you’re working in really thick vegetation to wear snakebite gators, which will protect you.”

Back in early March 2022, a Melbourne Water worker conducting maintenance work was winched through the air to hospital after being bitten by a snake in difficult terrain just outside Healesville.

Mr Alexander described four of the six different types of snake likely to be encountered throughout the Yarra Ranges.

“North of the old railway line from Yarra Glen to Healesville, and up through Dixons Creek is the only place you will get red-bellied black snakes, in alpine mountainous areas like the Black Spur, Kinglake, Warburton and Powelltown you’ll find highland copperheads and in low-lying areas such as Yarra Glen, Woori Yallock, Launching Place, Coldstream, Mt Evelyn, Montrose or Monbulk areas you’ll have the lowland copperhead,” he said.

Tiger snakes, which are absolutely everywhere in the Yarra Valley, the fourth-most venomous snake on the planet, with the longest fangs and highest venom yield of any snakes in Victoria. They are also very instinctive and will turn around and bite pretty much every

RACV provides tips on how to prepare pets for summer Summer is rapidly approaching and, with fewer pandemic restrictions in place, many Victorians are preparing for the holidays.

Regardless of whether it’s a vacation or a staycation, RSPCA Victoria calls on all pet owners to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of their animals during warmer weather.

The wetter-than-usual summer forecasts may lead owners to believe temperatures will be less severe and lower their guard when it comes to caring for their animals. It is important for owners to understand how to properly care for pets in the heat and be familiar with the signs of an animal in distress.

Preparing for summer will ensure the safety, comfort, and overall welfare of animals.

Planning and preparation are key to keeping animals happy and healthy during the summer and preventing a serious incident.

Always Provide a cool, shaded area with good ventilation and air flow Ensure your pet has access to multiple sources of fresh, cool water Make sure animals have access to shade and do not tether them – remember that shady places will change as the sun moves throughout the day Make sure rugged horses are wearing summer weight rugs Avoid exercising your pet in hot and humid conditions If safe to do so, bring animals indoors on hot and humid days

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The RACV has provided tips to support your pets during the heat. that smaller pets such as birds, · Remember rabbits, guinea pigs and reptiles are highly

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susceptible to heatstroke and need extra attention on warm days - move the animal and their cage to a cooler space with plenty of shade, water and ventilation e.g. the laundry or bathroom Be aware of the heat stress symptoms your pet may exhibit so you can help them cool down Ask someone to care for your animals if you are going away or consider using a boarding facility – if you have livestock ensure they can be checked regularly.

Despite predictions of a wetter-than-usual

Picture: UNSPLASH

summer this year, high temperatures will still occur, which can lead to pet health emergencies including dehydration and heatstroke.

While it is generally safe for pets to accompany their owners in the car, RSPCA Victoria urges people never to leave their animals unattended in a vehicle. Temperatures inside cars can rapidly reach unsafe levels - owners should be aware that it only takes six minutes for a dog or other animal to die in a hot car.

Treatment for heatstroke If you suspect your animal is suffering from heatstroke, RSPCA Victoria recommends emergency first aid is applied immediately to help normalise the

animal’s body temperature: 1. SPRAY or apply tepid/cool water onto their fur or skin.

2. Do not use ice or ice-cold water on your pet as it can potentially worsen the situation.

3. FAN the animal to maximise heat loss.

4. If possible, wet down the area around your pet to lower environmental temperatures.

5. Take your animal to the nearest VET immediately - even if it looks like they have recovered. The vet can assess for organ damage and provide life-saving treatment in serious situations.

Symptoms of Heatstroke The signs of heatstroke in animals are varied and may include: Relentless panting (increases as heatstroke progresses) Drooling or salivating Agitation or restlessness Very red or pale gums Bright red tongue Increased heart rate Breathing distress Vomiting, diarrhoea (possibly with blood) Signs of mental confusion, delirium Dizziness, staggering Lethargy, weakness Muscle tremors Seizures Collapsing and lying down Little to no urine production Coma

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Tuesday, 13 December, 2022

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MAIL 19

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Peter Booth exhibit opens

By Renee Wood Tarrawarra Museum of Art has opened its latest exhibition, showcasing Australian artist Peter Booth.

Viewers will be delighted to see works spanning from Booth’s early days in the 60s and 70s following through to some of his latest pieces finished this year.

This is the first major public gallery exhibition of Booth’s since the NGV retrospective show was held in 2003. Curator Anthony Fitzpatrick said it’s great to introduce his work to a new generation.

“We felt after two decades, it’d be great to introduce his work to a new generation who might not be familiar with his practice but also to highlight that he’s continued to paint since that time,” he said.

The exhibit starts by showing his early works with abstraction flowing through to what he’s most known for today with his surrealism and figurative works.

Booth’s themes of the absurd and grotesque are striking with many works featuring figures on a journey through different dimensions of apocalyptic nature.

“In the 80s…the arms race was escalating between Russia and the US and there was that sort of lingering, overarching concern over what could happen and then, a lot of these hybrid figures emerge out of thinking about how humans might adapt to an altered sort of environment,” Fitzpatrick said.

“He uses this a tradition of the grotesque as a way to comment about human folly or human inner corruption.”

Later works strip away the absurdity and start to show a dystopian natural landscape with snow falling or a moment where the mangroves are growing tall as though proving the resilience of nature.

Tarrawarra Museum of Art has opened its summer exhibit showcasing renowned artist Peter Booth. Pictures: ANDREW CRISP, COPYRIGHT PETER BOOTH

Works as recent as 2022 are in the exhibit.

“When you stand in front of these large paintings, you become the figure in in the landscape in a sense that you create the narrative or you have a subjective response.

“When you stand before it could be an emotional response, it can be an imaginative response.”

With seeing Booth’s work in person also

Peter Booth’s surrealist works are a sight to be seen. necessary in order to take in the scale and textures of his work. Fitzpatrick said it’s so important to encounter them in person.

“He’s such an incredible painter and particularly in oils. He talks about oil paint being such a beautiful medium, it’s a pity to thin it down.

“The presence of that paint and when you

stand in front of it, you really feel that energy that’s been invested in in the making of the work.”

“I really think it is… this idea that the viewer is someone who completes the work by that encounter with it, and everyone’s experience or response will be slightly or very different.”

The exhibit runs until 13 March 2023.

The Voice of Many Waters in Warburton

By Callum Ludwig Three local artists have come together for an exhibition in the gallery at the Warburton Waterwheel.

Yarra Junction artists Antonia Green and Warburton artists Erin Ellis and Ryan Tews have put together ‘The Voice of Many Waters’ which takes up the whole gallery space and will be on show until Friday 23 December from 10am to 4pm each day. Ms Green said all three of them went on trips to the Australian desert this year and were inspired by what they saw.

“We were responding to our personal journeys through the land and the ways that touched us. The Voice of Many Waters in reference to subterranean waters and the moistness that could still be found in that landscape as well, capturing the way water exists in that landscape,” “A lot of the paintings draw a con-

nection to certain places and then others are more evocative of a certain feeling or principle that provoked me to want to paint them.”

The exhibition includes a collection of paintings, ceramics, photography and original prints with a live soundscape to accompany it.

Ryan Tews travelled to Central Australia and spent weeks exploring a subterranean riverbed system that was an astonishing 20km wide. Mr Tews said he felt that these kinds of landscapes are very underrepresented artistically.

“I took my supplies and went solo in the extremely remote country, and it was a profound experience to go out there and get to know the country and understand how these ecosystems survive in such arid conditions,” he said.

“I was lucky to go at a time when they’d just had a lot of flooding the month before so

Coldstream Post Office Cnr Killara Road and Maroondah Highway Coldstream Supermarket Cnr Killara Road and Maroondah Highway Coldstream Roadrunners Roadhouse Cafe 629 Maroondah Highway Healesville Real Estate Yarra Valley 299 Maroondah Highway Healesville BP Ultimate 66 Maroondah Highway Healesville McKenzie's Tourist Services 13 Old Lilydale Road Healesville Newsagent 195 Maroondah Highway Healesville IGA Supermarket 199 Maroondah Highway Healesville SW Hollis Butcher 209 Maroondah Highway Healesville Sanctuary House Resort Motel 326 Badger Creek Road Healesville Shell Service Station Cnr Harker Street and Maroondah Highway Healesville Coles Supermarket 251 Maroondah Highway Healesville Caltex 370 Maroondah Highway Healesville First National/Mark Gunther 189 Maroondah Highway Healesville Beechworth Bakery 316 Maroondah Highway Launching Place Charlie's Milk Bar 2 Centella Place Launching Place General Store 2200 Warburton Highway Launching Place Caltex Log Cabin Service Station 2000 Warburton Highway Lilydale Shell Service Station 469 Maroondah Highway Lilydale United Petrol Service Station 473 Maroondah Highway

there was a bright green oasis in the middle of this harsh desert, and at points, it would completely barren and then all of a sudden you are driving through the forest.”

Mr Tews also submitted pieces based locally around Warburton in the exhibition, providing a juxtaposition to the desert that was also captured. Mr Tews said it was a crucial process for him to be able to go out and have time to respond and reflect and honour and just be receptive to nature in his works.

“It feels good to be able to come back with something to share as well. When I’m in the desert, I often think about the wetness of where I live in Warburton,” “The works in this show, even though they’re not all from the desert, they have a continuity of water or the lack of water, being crucial to the connected systems.

Lilydale 7-Eleven Lilydale Cnr Maroondah Highway 7 Cave Hill Road Lilydale Lilydale Village News Agents Lilydale Village Lilydale Coles Supermarket Lilydale Village Lilydale Lilydale Village Lilydale Village Lilydale Lilydale Aged Care 475 Swansea Road Lilydale BP Service Station 87 Warburton Highway Lilydale Eastern Laundries 2/4 Williams Street East Millgrove Newsagency Shop 5/ 3043 Warburton Highway Millgrove Millgrove Licensed Grocers 3039 Warburton Highway Millgrove Millgrove Village Bakery 4/3039 Warburton Highway Seville Woolworths Seville 568 Warburton Highway Seville Woolworths Caltex Service Station 568 Warburton Highway Seville Post Office 634-638 Warburton Highway Wandin North Fast Fuel Wandin 389-391 Warburton Highway Wandin North IGA X-Press Wandin North Plus Liquor 388 Warburton Highway Wandin North Landmark Harcourts Wandin Real Estate 1/362 Warburton Highway Wandin North Wandin Newsagency Shop 18/2 Union Road Warburton IGA Supermarket 3465 Warburton Highway Warburton K G Thomas Ply Ltd Insurance 1/3395 Warburton Highway Warburton The Valley Bakery Warburton 3415 Warburton Highway

‘Windsong’ by Antonia Green. 311780 Picture: STEWART CAHMBERS

Warburton Shell Service Station 3458 Warburton Highway Warburton Professionals Andrew McMath Real Estate 3371 Warburton Highway Warburton Bell Real Estate 3407 Warburton Highway Wesburn Local Fuel 2835 Warburton Highway Woori Yallock Foodworks Woori Yellock 1/1585 Warburton Highway Woori Yallock Newsagency & Tattslotto Shop 4/ 1585 Warburton Highway Woori Yallock Hillcrest Little Store Great Food 1745 Warburton Highway Woori Yallock Shell Service Station Foodies 1700 Warburton Highway Woori Yallock Australia Post LPO Shop 11 / 1585 Warburton Highway, The Centre Yarra Glen Ritchies IGA Shop 1/38 Bell Street Yarra Glen Caltex Petrol Station 66 Bell Street Yarra Glen Newsagent 32 Bell Street Yarra Glen United Garage 6 Bell Street Yarra Junction Woolworths Supermarket 82-84 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Bottle O 2440 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Bell Real Estate 2457 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Newsagency 2454 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Professionals Andrew McMath Real Estate 2460 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Yarra Junction Community Link 2442-2444 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Gladysdale Bakehouse 2568 Warburton Hwy Yellingbo Central Store 1942 Healesville-Kooweerup Road

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A VISION SPLENDID 40 ACRES CARRINGTON Park boasts 40 acres of high-yielding pasture in the equestrian heartland of desirable Dixons Creek. This property has seen only 3 owners since its original selection by the pioneering Lorimer family in the 1800s. It is an address steeped in a continuing history of agricultural excellence that makes it one of the Yarra Valley’s most premium properties listed for sale right now.

You will fall in love with: a country property serviced by mains water and fixed wireless broadband 500 sqm plus of shedding 360 degree panoramic views of the Yarra Valley from Mount St Leonard to the Dandenongs The homestead is a well-appointed 4 bedroom, 1 bathroom brick veneer home with covered entertaining and four car accommodation. There is a view from every window. Practicality is front-of-mind with an open plan flow-through kitchen / meals area adjacent to a spacious living room. Laundry / mud room provide ease of access when maintaining the grounds. Features of the home include double shower, reverse cycle split system and wood heating.

· · ·

The property’s showpiece is its 20 m x 60 m well-drained menage. In addition, the main shed of 390 sqm under-roof (incl. veranda) is thoroughly thought-out, with rubber-floored concrete stables (ideal for the safety and security of your horses), size-and-a-half

breezeway capable of securing two horses, and two large access doors to maximise air flow.

Yarra Glen township is only a 9-minute drive with all essential services.

Furthermore, Hoddle Street is only 44

minutes away. If you are seeking a mediumsized acreage property with essential agricultural facilities, quality pasture, fantastic views, and a comfortable home under an hour from Melbourne, you will not find a better match. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: Carrington Park, 220 Bottings Lane, DIXONS CREEK Description: 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 12 garage Price: $2,650,000 - $2,800,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Rob Verhagen phone: 0448 820 022 email: rob@integrityrealestate.com.au, INTEGRITY REAL ESTATE, YARRA VALLEY AND KINGLAKE RANGES

SUBURBAN, COUNTRY & LIFESTYLE PROPERTIES ACROSS THE REGION mailcommunity.com.au

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HOME FOCUS

FAMILY LIVING ON A GRAND SCALE BOASTING large family living and just on an acre of rolling lush green lawns this spacious family home is ideally suited for the extended and growing family.

Offering 4 bedrooms all with built in robes and an ensuite in the main bedroom, multiple living areas give the whole family loads of space with separate living/family and lounge rooms.

The fresh modern kitchen has plenty of bench and cupboard space with quality appliances.

Entertain in style all year round with a huge under cover entertaining area plus a separate bar and king size outdoor oven, and the kids will love the inground pool this summer.

Plenty of car, trailer, boat and caravan accommodation with a large lock up garage and a separate 2 car garage plus a bonus bungalow ideal for the teenagers or dependent relative.

Great views, colourful established gardens on a picturesque flat block it’s the ideal place to call home and conveniently located just a short stroll to local schools, Wesburn park and popular local cafes. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 2799 Warburton Highway, WESBURN Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,100,000 - $1,200,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: David Carroll 0419 539 320, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION, 5967 1277 22 MAIL

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HOME FOCUS

EVERYTHING ON OFFER AND MORE THIS magnificent home in excellent condition throughout having maintained lovingly by the current owners this home is ready to move in and enjoy with your family now.

Walking distance access to the local shops, public transport, and the Warburton Trail, ideal for a blended family, or ideal for a B & B with the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination approved and underway! This particular property could provide abundant accommodation for the bike enthusiast in a most convenient and desirable location.

This exceptional quality home, built with versatility and flair, is cleverly designed over two levels giving various options for living and entertaining, with loads of storage, ducted heating and cooling, wood heating,

ducted vac upstairs and downstairs, and a unique, warm, and inviting feel.

The commanding 5-bedroom, character filled home sits on 1500m2 of prime real estate with gorgeous views, enormous internal and external undercover entertainment zones, and a romantic private balcony for the master.

Outdoors leaves you with nothing left to do but enjoy your colour bursting, low maintenance established landscaped gardens, complete with automatic watering system, potter in a 2-car garage/workshop with toilet, and utilize the ample off street parking with enough room to park your caravan, multiple vehicles and plenty of bikes. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 2482 Warburton Highway, YARRA JUNCTION Description: 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $795,000 - $870,000 Inspect: Saturday, 12.30pm-1pm Contact: Samantha Price 0438 795 190, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION, 5967 1277

P 5966 2530

3407 Warburton Highway, Warburton

1563 Little Yarra Rd Powelltown

$680,000 - $720,000

716 Lusatia Park Rd, Hoddles Creek

P 5967 1277

2457 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction

$850,000 - $930,000

True country living with views and ample shedding.

Over 2 acres of country living- your new lifestyle awaits you!

Positioned on a spacious corner allotment with generous access for multiple vehicles, this will be a tradies delight as there is sheds galore. The bonus here is the divine surrounds at every turn, its a stunning backdrop with even a creek nearby to overlook. Stepping inside the home you’ll be greeted with an open plan lounge, dining and kitchen is original with large benches to cook up a storm. There are 3 bedrooms, the master having a large walk in robe and French doors that open up onto the back decking...a lovely way to wake up in the morning, the 3rd bedroom could be the ideal study or ideal for the teenager to enjoy. A wrap around verandah, garage with remote entry with internal access to the home and a carport to add to the multiple sheds. To top the home off there’s an array of mature plants from azaleas, rhododendrons in a beautiful setting.

On just over 2 acres of easily accessible and useable beautiful green land divided up into paddocks and stunning gardens! The home has 3 bedrooms - 2 of which have stunning mountain views , an updated laundry and bathroom and big open plan living area with gorgeous kitchen window where you have full view of the traditional cottage garden, along with a native garden. It´s truly like your own little wonderland when you meander through your garden paths! Along with horseshoe drive, double lock up garage with roller doors and concrete floor, storage shed, garden shed, wood sheds, chook house, a paddock that sheep currently graze in is also an established orchard.

Rebecca Doolan M 0401 832 068 Inspection:

By Appointment

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bellrealestate.com.au

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MAIL 23

HOME FOCUS

“EAGLE’S NEST” - EXECUTIVE HOME IDYLLICALLY positioned in a most peaceful and private enclave adjacent to majestic state forest and the Kyeema Track, “Eagle’s Nest” - a custom built brick veneer property on ¾ acre sits in perfect harmony with its tranquil environment providing a secluded setting to raise a family and embrace the very best of the Dandenong Ranges.

Oriented for stunning north westerly vistas, the executively built home on an open and sunny allotment, tiptoes quietly amongst nature where birdsong hangs in the air and the occasional wandering echidna meanders across the rolling lawns. Beyond the sweeping driveway, inside calms with a flowing single level, dual-living floorplan that spills to an all-season alfresco - the best seat in the house to take in the magical glow of sunset o’clock. Families will be drawn to the space, the setting, the quietude and the potential for living off-grid yet you are just a 3-minute drive to the Mount Dandenong Village and Fiveways for conveniences, community and connection.

Step inside to living areas that are grounded by the earthiness of bamboo floors under a canopy of soaring 3m high ceilings where an open plan zone is warmed by the ambience of a combustion wood fire.

A striking stone bench kitchen is highlighted by a central island for casual eats, stainlesssteel appliances and a lavish walk-in pantry whilst a quiet lounge/tv room offers a reprieve from busy family life. A privately placed master bedroom offers a sanctuary for the heads of the house accented by a walk-in robe and rain shower ensuite with a dreamy deep soak bath enhanced by soulsoothing views. Two minor bedrooms are quietly housed in a separate wing serviced by a family bathroom and a home office could also be utilized as a fourth bedroom.

Alfresco allure is delivered in spades with an all-season entertaining zone spilling to a polished concrete terrace ripe for hosting friends and family. A built-in barbeque will have the sausages sizzling all-year round and you can watch the kids as they cartwheel across the lush, flat lawn below.

Beautifully landscaped gardens made private by a camellia hedge allow you to pick your own blooms displaying an array of liliums and lily of the valley… just waiting for the summer sun.

Dreams of self-sufficiency can also be realised with the covered veggie patch ready for your green thumb complemented by avocados, pears, blueberries, dwarf apples and an orchard of mandarin, lime, lemonade

and apple trees. And don’t forget the luxury chook house ready and waiting for your isa browns, the water tanks, the commercial generator and the solar panels! All the ingredients you need for your off-grid life.

Moments from the top of Mount Dandenong for panoramic vistas of Melbourne and fireworks on New Year’s Eve and with picturesque walking tracks at your front door - “Eagle’s Nest” is just perfect for raising a family, entertaining and taking time to appreciate life among nature.

More to Love: One owner property built by a local builder in 2013 6+ Star energy rating Electric gated entrance Fully landscaped ¾ acre grounds

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· Double garage with commercial electric · · · · · · · ·

door, connected storage cove with roller doors and rear access.

Abundant extra parking for the caravan or trailer.

Instant gas hot water system in the ensuite Hydronic heating plus split systems and ceiling fans for seasonal warmth Loads of storage, including built-in robes to bedrooms 2 and 3 plus vast under house storage with a storage platform.

Heated towel racks in both bathrooms.

Off grid potential with 3 x rainwater tanks (2 x 22500L and 1 x 9000L), solar panels x 8, chicken coop and plentiful fruit and veggie patches.

Double glazed windows Pop up watering system for the lawn area

run off tank water KVA Silent Diesel Generator 240V · 10 with auto transfer switch to mains power.

Provides either prime power or standby/ back-up power sources and an estimated run time of 30 hours at 100% load (model retails for over $10,000).

Adjacent to land owned by the ABC - no neighbours on that side and adds to the feeling of seclusion.

Disclaimer: All information provided has been obtained from sources we believe to be accurate, however, we cannot guarantee the information is accurate and we accept no liability for any errors or omissions (including but not limited to a property’s land size, floor plans and size, building age and condition) Interested parties should make their own enquiries and obtain their own legal advice. ●

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HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 1 Osprey Road, MT DANDENONG Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,590,000- $1,720,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Trevor Bell 0418 333 580 or Elliot Bell 0427 099 880, BELL REAL ESTATE, OLINDA 24 MAIL

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Integrity

Yarra Valley & Kinglake Ranges

CHRISTMAS IS LESS THAN 2 WEEKS AWAY Christmas trees are being decorated, presents purchased, stockings hung, and mince pies eaten as we draw ever nearer to Christmas Day. We would like to thank you, vendors, purchasers, landlords and renters alike for your continued support through 2022 and for the 15 years that Integrity has been selling homes in the local community.

The last few years have been particularly challenging, however, it has been a pleasure to watch our community come out stronger. We couldn't have done this year without you and we look forward to making a positive impact in the lives of our clients in 2023.

Please note that Integrity's Yarra Glen, Healesville and Kinglake offices will close for the holidays from the 24th December and re-open on the 9th January.

We wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and safe travels over the New Year's holiday.

from the team at Integrity 158 Watsons Road Pheasant Creek

33 Clegg Road Mount Evelyn

55 Marks Road Kinglake West

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12582138-JC50-22

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$880,000 2

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$905,000 3

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LOCAL

Give Integrity a call 5786 2033 Shop 2/38-40 Bell Street Yarra Glen | 201 Maroondah Hwy, Healesvillle | 1/2 Kinglake-Glenburn Rd, KInglake *Based on data from 196 properties in calendar year 2021. N.B. If your property is exclusively listed with another agency, please disregard this communication. mailcommunity.com.au

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HOME FOCUS

INSPIRED COUNTRY LIVING PRIVATELY nestled amongst the leafy green hills of Gembrook, standing pretty as a picture and only 10 years young, this property provides a wonderful setting to enjoy a semi-rural lifestyle where kids can play and explore in their very own nature wonderland.

Ironically, as sung in “A Home Amongst the gum trees”, this home has a “veranda out the front” that wraps the entire way around the house, where you can have a hot cup of coffee whilst watching over the kids in the cottage style gardens or chatting to your significant other whilst they tinker away in the 2 car garage.

This great sized, double storey home offers all the space and indoor/ outdoor living you have been searching for with an open plan kitchen, living and meals area made warm and cosy with raked ceilings, exposed beams and the warm glow and ambiance of a wood fire heater.

The kitchen comes complete with a dishwasher and stainless-steel appliances and is well designed so you’re not missing out on any family fun whilst cooking.

There are 3 bedrooms, 2 of which on the ground floor and have built in robes and are serviced by the centrally located main bathroom and a separate toilet and laundry at the rear of the home.

Upstairs is a parent’s retreat/ second living area and master bedroom which looks out over the lush paddocks and encapsulates an abundance of natural light.

The possibilities surrounding land use are endless, with purpose-built fencing and gates providing excellent multi-purpose paddocks for goats, sheep, ponies or horses etc, raised veggie boxes, machinery shed, playground and so much more.

Not only are you going to enjoy your country retreat but you will benefit from lower bills due to 3 x 22,000ltr water tanks, solar hot water system and solar power.

Other features include split system heating and cooling, security system, outdoor in ground cellar and much more. You will be full of pride driving home to this safe and majestic location every night and retreat from the world outside. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 355 Beenak East Road, GEMBROOK Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: On application Inspect: By appointment Contact: Riley Nicholas 0488 501 218 rnicholas@barryplant.com.au, BARRY PLANT, EMERALD 26 MAIL

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1280 Pakenham Road, Mount Burnett

20 Margaret Road, Avonsleigh

17 Alfred Grove, Emerald

HUGE POTENTIAL ON OVER 5 ACRES

‘HIDDENVIEW’ A COUNTRY ESCAPE ON 1 ACRE

YOUR OWN PIECE OF PARADISE ON 1/2 AN ACRE!

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GUIDE $950,000 - $1,023,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Sue Colic 0421 772 610 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

20.12.2022 at 6pm (unless sold prior) GUIDE $850,000 - $910,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Justin Barrot 0438 683 781

GUIDE $850,000 - $930,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Justin Barrot 0438 683 781 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

23 Gembrook Launching Place Road, Gembrook

9 Francis Street, Cockatoo

14 Bayview Road, Emerald

STUNNING FAMILY HOME WITH VIEWS ON 2143M2

IMPECCABLE HOME WITH STUDIO & SHEDDING

BAY VIEWS IN CENTRAL EMERALD ON 1042m2

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SALE BY SET DATE. 19.12.2022 6pm (unless sold prior) GUIDE $830,000 - $890,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Justin Barrot 0438 683 781

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GUIDE $1,500,000 - $1,650,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Denise McKay 0479 184 147 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

20.12.2022 at 5pm (unless sold prior) INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Brittany Barry 0412 861 094 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

Barry Plant Emerald would like to Welcome Jade Cole to the Team.

With 30 years of sales under her belt, Jade has developed a strong proficiency in communication, negotiation and attention to detail. With a positive, professional and engaging nature, you’ll be sure to find Jade approachable, warm & enthusiastic.

Having grown up in The Hills, Jade has established strong community connections and an in depth knowledge of the area and everything which makes this part of the world an enviable place to live.

Being a local business owner, Jade takes pride in her “above and beyond” customer service approach with a results driven marketing and management track record while striving for ease and superiority in all personal and business endeavours. That is exactly what makes her a trusted, reliable & knowledgeable community member.

Jade spent an idyllic childhood here in our area then time in Bayside, returning to the tranquillity & magnificent Dandenong Ranges to raise her family.

When Jade is not working she can be found riding her horse, sampling the cuisines & enjoying the thriving arts culture.

With an award winning team at her side Jade will be sure to help achieve your dreams to come true too.

mailcommunity.com.au

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MAIL 27

HOME FOCUS

LIFESTYLE PROPERTY WITH LOADS OF EXTRAS THIS level ½ acre plus property with loads of extra features is a lifestyle investment unlike any other. Designed for family living with a salt chlorinated, solar heated swimming pool, flourishing fenced fruit and veggie gardens, horticulturalist designed native garden, and several noteworthy outbuildings for hobbyists or tradespeople, you simply won’t find this level of liveability anywhere else.

The 1920s coachman’s cottage serves as the main dwelling of this magnificent property. The charming covered verandah and leadlight front door lead into the foyer and lounge with ceiling rose, open wood fire, plate rails, and skylight. The dine-in country kitchen is also adorned with a wood fire as well as a freestanding gas cooker, stainless steel dishwasher, and a charming coffered ceiling. With 4 generous bedrooms with polished timber floors, including the main bedroom with ensuite-effect bathroom, this is a delightful home laden with distinguished features.

In addition, the 10mx10m barn is an exceptional inclusion that is guaranteed to elevate your lifestyle. The lower level with Canadian wood heater features parking for 6 vehicles and custom made blacksmithed barn doors. Filled with salvaged materials rich with history, this is a one-of-a-kind offering. Furthermore, the upper level has been converted into an incredible fitted out studio with Velux opening skylights and vintage steel staircase sourced from St Thomas Mores Primary School.

With further inclusions such as a powered artists’ studio and study cubby, shipping container workshop, welding area, recreational vehicle parking, 2 garden wood sheds, and 2 separate gated drives, this list of elements here seems limitless.

Soak up all this incredible property has on offer by seeing it in person. Don’t delay, plan your viewing today.

Beautiful ½ acre property with solar heated swimming pool, fenced fruit and veggie gardens, landscaped native gardens, and dual drive access 1920s coachman’s cottage 4-bedroom main dwelling Character-filled lounge and kitchen with cosy open wood fires 10mx10m barn filled with superb repurposed materials, Canadian wood fire, 3-phase power, and parking for 6 vehicles Upper level 2-bedroom studio, separate powered artists’ studio, study cubby, and multiple garden sheds. ●

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HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 14 Lockwood Road, BELGRAVE HEIGHTS Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 6 garage Price: $1,250,000 - $1,375,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Brad Conder 0422 639 115, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 28 MAIL

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Real Estate you can trust!

We ’ r e h e r e t o h e l p FOR SALE

36 Ferndale Avenue, UPWEY IMPRESSIVE FAMILY ENTERTAINER

$1,100,000 - $1,150,000 5A2B4C

Offers Closing 1pm Dec 7th (Unless Sold Prior) This half-acre family haven with swimming pool and large paved patio in peaceful surrounds has arrived just in time for the summer months to come. Designed for enviable living and entertaining in style, this beautiful home will be the backdrop for many memorable moments.

FOR SALE

$640,000 - $699,000

2/40 Bergins Road, ROWVILLE CUTE, CONVENIENT & CLOSE TO EVERYTHING!

3A 1B 1C

Located in a convenient location within easy reach of all local arterial roads and freeways, Stud Park and Wellington Village and the beautiful walking tracks of Tirhatuan Reserve, this 3 bedroom unit is well maintained and close to many local schools.

With only 2 properties on the site, unit 2 is privately positioned at the rear of the block which further enhances the privacy of this lovely home.

Sam Adamson M 0421 023 760 | E sam@chandlerandco.com.au

Daniel Steen

Sharyn Chandler

M 0434 979 142 | E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

M 0439 882 442 | E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

FOR SALE

30 Upper Coonara Road, OLINDA FAMILY STARTER WITH FILTERED VALLEY VIEWS

$685,000 - $750,000 3A 2B 2C

Staring out over filtered views that take in the nearby Monbulk valley, this three bedroom home is spacious and positioned privately away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Set on a generous 1851m2, elevated block with a stunning array of mature trees, the home boasts an open plan design with an updated kitchen that includes a 900ml stainless steel upright oven plus excellent storage and bench space.

FOR SALE

$795,000 - $870,000

111 Old Belgrave Road, UPWEY DELIGHTFUL HOME WITH DEPENDENT PERSONS UNIT

4A3B2C

Offers Close 1pm Tues Dec 6th (Unless Sold Prior) With 2 unique dwellings in a top lifestyle location, “Mernda” offers immense versatility for multi-generational living. Situated only 700m from Upwey Train Station and enhanced by distant city views this home will evolve with your style of living through the years.

Sam Adamson M 0421 023 760 | E sam@chandlerandco.com.au

Sharyn Chandler

Daniel Steen

M 0439 882 442 | E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

M 0434 979 142 | E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

9754 6888 1689 Burwood Highway, Belgrave VIC 3160 www.chandlerandco.com.au of fice@chandlerandco.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

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PUZZLES

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9-LETTER WORD Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once.

No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

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Today’s Aim: 17 words: Good 26 words: Very good 35 words: Excellent

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U

4 LETTERS ELSE EYES LUGS REST RIPS SACS SEER SETS SLIM SLIP SODA SORE STAB WARM

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QUICK CROSSWORD

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No. 111

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SUDOKU

16-12-22

This week’s crossword proudly sponsored by

The Heritage Family

HERITAGE & HERITAGE FUNERALS Lilydale 9739 7799 Healesville 5962 1600 HERITAGE PIONEERS CHAPEL 1414 Healesville/Koo Wee Rup Road, Woori Yallock 5964 6500 Head Office: 733 Boronia Road, Wantirna 9800 3000 info@ heritagefunerals.com.au www.heritagefunerals.com.au 1157336-CB40-14

30 MAIL

|

Tuesday, 13 December, 2022

mailcommunity.com.au

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services V Deadline

V Trades Business Profile

V Painters/Decorators

Placing your classified advert is so easy...

Jake Harris 0402 913 197 Email: info@harrisandcopainting.com.au www.harrisandcopainting.com.au

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We accept payment by:

6SHDN WR RXU FODVVL²HG WHDP DQG ²QG RXW KRZ HDV\ it is to advertise. Start building your brand today DQG EH VHHQ HYHU\ ZHHN LQ 1HWZRUN &ODVVL²HGV Trades and Services.

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Phone: 9726 6488

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BUILDER CARPENTER

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RICHARD MAILE 0409 884 413

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Mike 0417 699 698 Or Steve 0409 236 326

NO JOB TOO SMALL PENSIONER DISCOUNTS Reg.BPB Reg. DB-L 14599 Reg.M.B.A.V. 52311

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KELLY’S FENCING & TIMBER

Yarra Valley Mini Excavations

RENOVATIONS BATHROOMS CARPORTS DECKINGS PERGOLAS, ETC

24 HOUR SERVICE ฀

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V Bobcat/Earthmoving

Excavators and Bull Dozers of all sizes Small and large job specialists All types of earthworks Driveway repairs and rebuilds ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

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• Frameless/Semi-frameless shower screens • Frameless balustrading • Splashbacks • Cut to size while you wait

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• Household & Shopfront Glass Repairs • Insurance Work • Commercial & Domestic Glazing • Mirrors

RIDGELINE GLASS & GLAZING

J.L. Hutt Electrical

BLINDS & SECURITY DOORS

375 Maroondah Highway, North Croydon

1118763-RC07-14

0408 538 121

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V Electricians

V Awnings, Blinds & Curtains

9735 3700

Mobile 0419 131 958 SERVICING ALL AREAS BOB WALLACE AND SONS

Showroom open Mon - Fri, 8am - 5pm (8 - 12 Saturdays)

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5962 4060 0409 889 507 0409 889 507

• Septic Tanks • Treatment Plants • Grease Traps • EPA Licence • Portable Toilets

V Glass/Glazing

Carpenter REC 17042 PIC 38148 AU 06212

Proprietor ProprietorChris ChrisBurley Burley

YARRA VALLEY SEPTIC TANK CLEANING

12420936-CLG26-19

V Carpenters

Solar Skylights Skylight resealing Pensioner discount

Call Chris 0412 099 142 24 years in roofing leaks

5962 4841

• Brivis Evaporative Cooling • Daikin & Rinnai Splits • Pensioner discounts • Evap & Split Service Specials

Healesville Blinds

Leak detection & repair Rebeding & Pointing High Pressure cleaning

V Septic Tanks

Call 1300 666 808

Be cool this summer

• Blinds and Awnings of all types • Security Doors and Screens • Competitive Rates and Free Measure and Quote

Ph: 0400 627 644

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V Handy Persons

JACK

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Find local work in the • Fence Repairs • Deck Maintenance • Plaster Repairs • Painting • Furniture Assembly • Carpentry

Employment 12565524-ET35-22

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V Air Conditioning

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V Roofing

TRADES & SERVICES

(1.5% credit card processing fee applies.)

12499475-CG25-21

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS/BANK TRANSFER

12528239-CG02-22

INTERIOR/EXTERIOR • DOMESTIC/COMMERCIAL DULUX ACCREDITED PAINTER

Phone: 1300 666 808

section of Network Classifieds.

For a free quote and fair price: Call Jack 0403 017 834

Tuesday, 13 December, 2022

|

MAIL 31

V Public Notices and Event

Planning and Environment Act 1987

VAN DEN ENDE

MAY, Rosemary Anne 05.09.1942 – 08.12.2022 It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Rosemary Anne May. Beloved wife of Anthony (Tony), Mother of Bradley, Maria, Grant and Daniel, Mother-in-law to Sonnia, Michael, Nikki and Amanda, Grandmother of Brittany, Ariel, Garrett, Jordan, Candice, Kyle, Kobi, Lilly, Olivia, Oliver and Austin, Great grandmother to Shanelle, Ethan, Ayla, Brooklyn, Kai, Gunner, Stevie, Isaiah and Bowie.

Forever in our hearts

Johannus (Jan) Passed away peacefully at Bendigo Hospital on Tuesday, 6th December, 2022.

Aged 86 years.

Dearly loved father of Caz, Susan and Jasmine.

Cherished and adored Opa and friend.

"One of a kind" Loved by many.

Amendment C148yran The Minister for Planning has approved Amendment C148yran to the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme.

The Amendment implements a comprehensive revision of the planning scheme, updating the Local Planning Policy Framework, vegetation controls, and Clause 51.03 (which gives effect to the Upper Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges Regional Strategy Plan in the planning scheme) among other updates.

A copy of the Amendment can be inspected, free of charge, at the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning website at www.planning.vic.gov.au/public-inspection and at the Yarra Ranges Council website, www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/C148; or during offices hours, at the offices of the Yarra Ranges Council, Lilydale Community Link, 15 Anderson Street, Lilydale.

V Adult Services

DECLARATION Fire Restrictions

ESCORTS R US

MAY

ADVERTISERS in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.

Ladies Welcome.

Mention this ad for $10 discount New Ladies from 5pm

Motoring

www.escortsrus.com.au

9775 3210 swa224c 12577486-AV46-22

V Pets & Services ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

V Firewood

REDGUM FIREWOOD $250 per metre

CFA and Forest Fire Management Victoria will be introducing fire restrictions (Fire Danger Period and Prohibited Period, respectively) for all private land within the municipalities listed below.

Delivered

0407 307 432

Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number.

It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice.

For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

Employment

The Fire Restriction Period will commence at 0100 hours on the date shown and unless varied by a subsequent declaration, will end at 0100 hours on 1 May 2022.

• Animal handling • Petting Zoo • Micro-business • Aquarium maintenance $25 p/h equiv.

Please note these are supported jobs and internships offered to young Victorians with neurodiverse barriers.

Neurodiverse and intellectual disability applicants encouraged to apply at: www.neurodiversity.org.au/careers Or phone (03) 5261 4172 Neurodiversity Victoria

19/12/2022

Advertise with us and get better results

• Attractive hours and hybrid work

The Cardinia Foundation was established in 2004 with the vision of building strong, healthy and diverse communities. In partnership with the Cardinia Shire Council, the Foundation primarily supports local NFP groups in the provision of Grants including older persons, disability, disadvantaged, youth, arts, environment and men’s health across the Cardinia Shire region.

Jason Heffernan Chief Officer – CFA

F30764

Chris Hardman Chief Fire Officer – Forest Fire Management Victoria

Motoring V Caravans & Trailers

V Motor Vehicles

฀

• Exciting time of strategic growth

Information about fire restrictions within the Fire Protected Area can be obtained from www.ffm.vic.gov.au, or your local Forest Fire Management Victoria Fire District Officer

Tuesday, 13 December, 2022

section of Network Classifieds.

V Volunteers

Certain restrictions on the lighting of fires are in force during the Fire Restriction Period. Information about fire restrictions within the Country Area of Victoria can be obtained from www.cfa.vic.gov.au, your local CFA District Office or Municipal Fire Prevention Officer

|

General Classifieds

12582377-AV50-22

฀

Cook Supervisor will be responsible for ensuring healthy provision of food and nutrition for resident residing within the facility. The successful applicate requires excellent communication skills and a thorough understanding of food delivery including dining experience and choice.

Please email yarra.ranges@adventcare. org.au or call (03) 5966 4400 for a position description or if you have any queries.

Applicants should refer to the PD on www.ecoss.org.au and in the application address the selection criteria.

Applications must be sent to the ECOSS Secretary at jarh.butler@gmail.com by 5pm on January 13.

CALL:

On offer: • Salary sacrifice • On site car parking • Immediate start

The successful applicant/s will have: • Certificate III in Commercial Cookery • Follow Basic Food Safety practices • Apply and Monitor food safety requirements.

• Oversee the day-to-day implementation of food safety in the workplace • Experience working in residential aged care - (desirable) • Knowledge and experience in chemical handling (desirable) • Excellent communication • Current successful NDIS Check • Mandatory Covid-19 Vaccination

The position is 11 hours per week (2 days) for 12 months (with possibility of further 12 months), starting February 2023.

• Positively impact the local community

32 MAIL

AdventCare is a ‘not for profit’ organisation offering aged care that embraces Christian values. We are seeking applications for our Yarra Ranges Facility in Warburton. Experience in a similar role or environment an advantage, but not essential.

Yarra Valley ECOSS is an environmental organisation currently seeking a Bio Char Education and Marketing Coordinator to work with Earth Systems and the Yarra Ranges Council in promoting the uptake of bio char in the community and educating ©gardeners, farmers, students and others about bio char and its outstanding environmental properties. Applicants must have some marketing experience, administration skills, excellent communication and computer skills.

Experience working in the education sphere preferred.

Murrindindi Shire Council

section of Network Classifieds.

COOK SUPERVISOR REQUIRED

Bio Char Education and Marketing Coordinator

• 2 newly created part time roles

Real Estate

Required for small Yarra Valley Waste Collection company.

Must have Medium Rigid licence.

Early morning starts.

Good wages and conditions.

Phone to arrange interview 0438 596 660

URGENTLY require Sheet metal workers 1st or 2nd class for switch board manufacture as well as Factory hands.

Full time hours with overtime available.

Please email accounts@promptsheetmetal.com.au today if you have experience in this field

Municipality Date of Commencement Mitchell Shire Council 19/12/2022

12582825-ET50-22

DRIVERS Full time / Part time

V Massage Therapists

12543897-HC14-22

12582268-FC50-22

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Prompt Sheet Metal

General Classifieds

STUART MENZIES Director, State Planning Services Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning

www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au

V Funeral Services

Rosemary Anne

Notice of Approval of Amendment

V Positions Vacant

SUPPORTED JOBS and sponsored internships in:

Owen Mohan Funerals 5821 2884

A service to celebrate the life of Rosemary Anne May will be held at Le Pine Funerals, 102 Maroondah Highway Healesville on Monday 19th Dec 2022 at 10:30am.

Family and friends welcome.

YARRA RANGES PLANNING SCHEME

The Amendment came into operation on 1 December 2022, the date the notice was published in the Victoria Government Gazette.

V Positions Vacant

Fundraising Manager

Executive Officer

Reporting to the Chair, the Fundraising Manager is a highly influential role and will be the face of the organisation. The appointee will create comprehensive campaigns and build brand awareness across the community.

Reporting to the Chair and working closely with the Fundraising Manager, the Executive Officer will provide administrative and financial stewardship, risk and governance advice, and secretariat service to the Board.

The aim is to generate revenue and a significant corpus through liaising with key stakeholders and leveraging strategic partnerships to produce sustainable contributions for the community.

Responsibilities include policy and procedure compliance,IT and database systems,general administration regular reporting and advising on Foundation outcomes and revenue generating activities.

If you are interested either of these exiting roles, please contact Peter Dakin on 0408 330 046 for a confidential discussion, visit our website www.dakinpartners.com.au/job board for the full job advert and to apply.

12570758-AV40-22

Anytime, Anyplace dedications.networkclassifieds.com.au

V Deaths

12566160-ET36-22

Could you kindly contact me on 0419 730 179 regarding the recently made grocery payment at ALDI Healesville on my behalf. I've misplaced your mobile number to arrange for repayment.

V Deaths

12580328-MS48-22

ATTENTION NIKKI BROWN

Place Your Dedication Online

Employment

12423634-SN31-19

V Public Notices and Event

Announcements

12582816-JW50-22

General Notices

PARAMOUNT CLASSIC Delux caravan, 2011 model, reg till 13/12/2023 (U576-213). tare wt 1870-GVM-2270, semi off road model, tandem axel, side checker plate/stone protection body 20'x6" overall 25ft Trail Mate hydraulic lifting jack, large front storage boot, aux 12v deep cell battery, drop down jack's, twin long range water tanks, twin gas bottles, large roll out Tebbs awning, awning shade wall and floor covers, external side mounted picnic table, Teac TV and windup roof antenna, Ibis ceiling mounted air conditioner, Kenwood radio/cd player, queen size island bed with innerspring mattress, large Thetford 3 way 150lt fridge, stainless steel Therford gas/electric cooktop and oven, solar panel. Immaculate condition and custom designed for comfort and space featuring large tri-fold folding cafe dinette table seating 4 people with opposite facing seating.

Large toilet/shower recess (spotless). This van has been under cover since purchased, the external body and interior fixtures are absolutely unmarked, overall van is as new, health reasons force this sale of an excellent caravan fully equipped for travel asking price $41,000.00 ONO, Phone 0419 206 410 Eildon.

BUS FOR SALE Higer Munro 2012, 29 seat, 110,000km, one owner /driver. Cummins 3.8L 4cyl turbo engine, diesel.

Allison 6 speed auto.

Telma brake retarder fitted. New white paint, no markings. Currently in service. Located in Marysville.

Reg 9030AO. $53,900. Phone Richard 0417 633 753.

Want to place an ad but not sure where to start?

Call our helpful classified team between 8:30am-5pm Mon-Fri for FREE advice!

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mailcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Wandin claims two wins

By Bryce Edwards Wonga Park vs Wandin 1st XI Wandin 1st would play away against Wonga Park.

Wandin won the toss and chose to bat.

Rod Aitken and Jamie Elliott would get Wandin off to a great start with Jamie Elliott making 25 and with Wandin at 1/80.

Rod Aitken would put in a batting master class making 102 and along with Jamie Oakley making 50, Wandin would post a total of 216.

With 216 on the board, it was up to Wandin bowlers to put the pressure on.

Wonga Park battered well and it was hard to determine who was on top but at the end of the day, Wonga Park manage to make the 216 in the second last over of the day.

Wandin 2nd XI v Yarra Junction 3rd Xi This week would see Yarra Junction head up the highway to Wandin, win the toss and elect to bat first on a fast Wandin oval.

The Wandin opening bowlers would find five wickets in the first 10 overs M Kogelman 3/17 and J Kneebone 2/16, this would set the tone for the innings, with L Curwood 2/9 and L Alderman 3/5 quickly finishing off the tail, leaving Wandin only 50 runs for victory.

Wandin would lose 3 wickets in the run chase but a steady 41 * to L Faulkingham would see Wandin to an easy victory.

Wandin 3rd XI vs Warrandyte The toss was won by Wandin, who chose to bat first. After a rough start at 2/12 after the third over, a decent little partnership followed. The scores progressed to 4/54 after 14 overs and at drinks, the scores were 4/64 but three more wickets would fall in a quick fashion to leave Wandin 7/68. What followed was a very good partnership of 48 runs to take Wandin to 8/112 and another small partnership at the back end took Wandins score to 8/146.

M Owens 28 M Polido 31 B Vallence 30 no

·

Wandin CC’s Charlotte Edwards charges in to bowl.

The Wandin Women’s cricketers celebrate.

· R Potter 2/24 After a quick start by Warrandyte with the bat, they were able to take their score to 1/74 after ten overs. Along with poor bowling and at times fielding, Warrandyte was able to cruise to 3/113 at drinks. After a rev-up by the captain and other senior players, Wandin was able to make life a bit difficult but in the end, Warrandyte was too good, taking the victory and finishing up at 4/147 after 28 overs.

M Richards 50 retired M Malley 33 M Polio 1/19 M Seeger 1/13 J Polido 2/19 Wandin Women vs Warrandyte After a week off, Wandin Women’s were ready

· ·

Pictures: SUPPLIED to get back out on the field with a home game against Warrandyte. After winning the toss and electing to bowl, the opening attack from Wandin kept Warrandyte on their toes after taking 3 wickets within the first 3 overs. Holding steady at the drinks break, Wandin came back on firing, as an extraordinary catch from Danni Ewart saw the dismissal of a key wicket after drinks, as well as two more wickets from Olivia Edwards in the final over, leaving her 4/6 off her 4 overs.

Wandin needed 97 to win.

Backing up her close bowling in the first innings, Sky Wilson opened the bat alongside Danni Ewart, as they both faced the paced

bowling of Warrandytes openers. Chipping a quick 51* off of 33 balls, Sky’s batting set a good start, and after her own retirement set the tone for everyone else.

Charlotte Edwards came out next with a firing intent followed by Bec Kneebone. Hitting hard at Warrandyte’s bowling, Kneebone backed her wicket in the first innings with two sharp boundaries, and Edwards allowed Wandin to keep the chase on. Edwards finished on 29 and Kneebone on 10, and a team effort from the girls allowed them to cross the line with 7 overs to go.

Today’s game was another amazing example of both the skills improving within the league but also the fun it has become for all women to socialise whilst performing at exceptional standards. Well done girls and bring on Officer at home next week!

Tough weekend for Healesville Senior cricketers Under 12-9 Healesville 7/119 defeated Coldstream 74 – by Adam Keath A good win by the U12-9s after a few scares against Coldstream. Losing the toss and being sent in to bat Healesville had a top-order collapse leaving the Bloods7/43 of 10 overs.

But a great last wicket stand between James Howden (26 no), Manny Winrow (20 retired no) and Jackson Lehman holding up the other end staying NO after 34 balls got Healesville to 7/119 off 23 overs. James Howden then opened the bowling, intent on winning the game on his own, and took an impressive 4/9 off 3 overs, the rest of the wickets were taken by Louis Keath 2/4, Declan Kruize 1/12, Ahren Wicker 1/6 and Ryder Hudson 1/7 kept Coldstream to 74 runs, some great fielding with both Louis Keath and Gus Morcombe holding onto two catches each. Another great win sets up a top-of-the-table match next week against Yarra Junction Under 12-4 Healesville 4/146 defeated Mount Evelyn 93 Mt Evelyn batted first on a perfect evening for cricket. Taylor Caldicott (1/2)and Ben Hunter (1/4) bowled well but the highlight of Healesville’s bowling innings was a hat-trick

by Raff Morcombe who bowled 3 batsmen in a row to bowl out Mt Evelyn and finish with 4/12. Chasing 93, Healesville’s batting depth proved too strong with Raff Morcombe 54*, Henry Harding 26*, Ben Hunter 14*, Taylor Caldicott 13* and Tully Ellis 5* all batting well and reaching retirement or being not out.

Under 14 Healesville 6/125 defeated Wandin 7/115 – by Liam English Good batting performances from Darcy English (25*), Eli Prentice (24*) and Cooper Bell (23*) who all remained not out. Good bowling effort by Charlie Jarrert (2/9) and Sam Keith (2/12) Under 16 Healesville 9/70 defeated by St Andrews 6/123 Playing at Queens Park Healesville bowled mailcommunity.com.au

Brothers Josh Handasyde 59* (left) and Tom Handasyde (right) 5* after Healesville’s 1st XI batting innings.

Picture: SUPPLIED first and got an early runout. Some solid batting from St Andrews enabled them to build a score of 6/123. Healesville had two multiple wicket takers, Amelia English 2/6 and Leonard Robinson 2/20. Gabe Houlihan chipped in for a wicket also. Needing almost 5 an over from 25 overs the run chase never gained momentum with only two players reaching double figures, Ethan Nikcevich (16) and Denzel Parsons 16*. Healesville batted out the 25 overs and finished on 9/70.

Seniors 1st XI – Healesville 6/181 defeated

by East Ringwood 3/237 – by Josh Handasyde This week, the Healesville 1st XI faced East Ringwood in a one-day match down at Queens Park. East Ringwood won the toss and opted to bat on a fast outfield and a perfect summer’s day. It started favourably for East Ringwood with the openers getting off to a fast start before Liam English got the first breakthrough. East Ringwood was then able to consolidate with a 110-run partnership between S. Griffiths (68) and Ryan Webster (89*) East Ringwood finished their innings

3/237. Healesville had plenty of runs to chase and got off to a strong start with Ash Hamer opening the batting and making a quick-fire 15 including a huge six before being tragically caught at point. Max Wallace and Josh Handasyde went at rebuilding the innings with Wallace coming out guns blazing en route to a well-made 34 before being run out. Healesville was 2/71 after 15. At the 20-over break Healesville was ahead of the rate but lost wickets at regular intervals. Josh Handasyde (59*) carried his bat through the innings providing the base for Healesville to keep attacking but ended the innings 6/181.

Next week the Bloods play their last game before Christmas at home against South Warrandyte in another one-day match Seniors 2nd XI – Healesville 89 defeated by Seville 0/99 – by Ethan Nikcevich Healesville won the toss and sent Seville out into the field with Ben Mackey and Ethan Nikcevich opening the batting, Mackey was dismissed early whilst Ethan started strong before being trapped in front for 12, Ben Wallace looked solid seeing off the open-

ing bowlers before edging one through to the keeper for 9, Brenton Damrow (19) and Glen Poynton (18) looked to score runs with Glen hitting a six down the ground onto the roof, a flurry of wickets continued to fall and Healesville was all out for 89. Seville’s Andrew Cummins (38*) and Kane McDonald (56*) were solid as they passed Healesville without loss of a wicket in the 24th over. Healesville’s undefeated start comes to an end as they now move to 5-1 on the season.

Seniors 3rd XI – Healesville 8/176 defeated

by St Andrews 6/228 St Andrews got off to a dominant start with both openers retiring at 50. Healesville’s bowlers toiled away with Eli Prentice 2/35 and Gabe Houlihan 2/39 the multiple wicket takers. Chasing 228 proved too many to chase but some good batting from Dave Plunkett (35) and Matt Cooper (37) allowed Healesville to build a respectable total of 176.

The highlight of Healesville’s batting was the innings of Gabe Houlihan who made his highest score in cricket (43*) and provided great resistance to ensure Healesville batted the full allotment of overs. Well done Gabe.

Seniors 4th XI – Healesville 117 defeated by Chirnside Park 8/213 – by Adam Keath Healesville fourths struggled under the hot sun against Chirnside Park at Wesburn on Saturday. Losing the toss and being sent into the field all the bowlers struggled to contain the scoring and take wickets. Chirnside ended on an impressive 8/213. Premdeep Sing was the standout with 2/9 of 3 and one wicket each for Cooper Bell, Amandeep Sing, Peter Coster, Matt Wilkinson and Sam Keath.

With the pressure on scoring quickly Healesville’s top and middle order crumbled leaving Healesville 9/40 in the 12th over. A touch of respectability was restored as Amandeep Singh and Tom Robinson put on a 77-run last wicket stand getting Healesville to 117 all out.

Great innings by Amandeep finishing with 58 n.o.

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SPORT

Final over win for women

By Rob Boxell Under 12s vs Mount Evelyn Junction took on heavily fancied Mount Evelyn on Friday evening and it was Mount Evelyn who won the toss and sent Junction into bat. Tyson Oates and Kye Van de Maat opened up with Oates the first wicket to fall thanks to a good catch on the boundary. Jordy Thornton and Van de Maat batted beautifully with both running singles well before both retired. Luke Dark and Wil Joseph came to crease and carried on with the same intent as the previous duo finding the boundary and punishing anything loose from the Mount Evelyn bowlers.

Junction finished on 5/86 thanks to knocks of 22* from Thornton, 15* from Van De Maat and 13 from Dark.

Oates opened the bowling and got a huge wicket second ball thanks to a great catch from Joseph behind the stumps. Dark claimed another wicket in the third over with another great catch from Joseph to leave Mount Evelyn 2/11. 2/11 quickly became 4/11 as Van De Maat took 2 wickets in 2 balls and narrowly just missed out on his hat-trick. Mount Evelyn regrouped and got themselves back into the game before a late wicket from Thornton secured the game for Junction to grab a 26 run win and cement their place on top of the ladder.

Yarra Junction 5/86 (J Thornton 22*, K Van De Maat 15*) def Mt Evelyn 5/60 (K Van De Maat 2/10) Women’s vs St Andrews It was 3rd vs 2nd as Skipper Carly Millar lost the toss on a hot and windy day down at Junction and was sent into the field to bowl first.

St Andrews started off strong rotating the strike and punishing the bad ball before Millie Kuth got the breakthrough in the 4th over. Alannah Bomford got in the action with a wicket thanks to a great catch from Taylor Stevens to reduce St Andrews to 2/23. Stevens was back in action again, this time off the bowling of Bec Brown with the score now 3/34. 3/34 quickly became 5/42 as Brown stuck again thanks to another great catch from Anelise McCracken and Tara Wilson got in the wickets thanks to a great Yorker. Rachel Pilton joined the attacked and claimed her sole wicket for the day with another catch, taken by Kuth in the deep. Bomford came back on and claimed a late wicket and her second of the day to keep

The Yarra Junction womens cricketers celebrate their nail-biting win.

St Andrews 7/76.

Kuth and Lisa Hilton opened up and Junction lost the early wicket of the big-hitting Kuth for 0 to reduce Junction to 1/2. Carly Millar joined Hilton and they both batted beautifully punishing the loose balls paired with great running between the wickets to put on a partnership of 72. Millar departed for a well-made 29 with the score on 74. 2 quick wickets fell to add some last-over drama but Junction crossed the line with 4 balls to spare with Hilton finishing on a well-made 32* to grab a six-wicket win and going into the last game before the Christmas break full of confidence.

Yarra Junction 4/77 (L Hilton 32*, C Millar 29) def 7/76 ( R Brown 2/12, A Bomford 2/22) 3rd XI vs Wandin The 3rds travelled down the highway looking to atone for their efforts from last week. Sadly the only highlight was winning the toss and choosing to bat. Although off to a good start, being 0/20 after three overs, the 3rd XI was

unable to handle a rampaging Wandin attack and was bowled out for 49. The Dogs batsmen chased down the total within ten overs only three wickets down.

Yarra Junction 10/49 def by Wandin 3/73 (E Clark 2/10) 2nd XI vs Powelltown Up against the old rivals, the 2nd XI lost the toss and was made to bowl first. Early wickets from Blayden Steedman and Leigh Van der Vlugt saw the visitors at 3/30 early on, however, a 100-run partnership between Neale and Arnold saw the momentum shift drastically.

Ryan Carter was able to knock over Neale and then snare two more wickets, which saw Powelltown finish 6/225. With Matt Hammond and Carter opening, disaster struck when Carter went down with an achilles injury. AJ Druitt was run out soon after. Wickets began to fall as Junction slumped to 5/31 before Van der Vlugt and Hammond steadied the ship with a 50-run partnership. Hammond was dismissed for a

Picture: SUPPLIED fighting 41. Steedman joined Van der Vlugt and gave it a good go, hitting 25 and 26 respectively, however, the target of 226 proved too much for the home side.

Yarra Junction 7/121 (M Hammond 41) def

by Powelltown 7/225 (R Carter 3/43) 1st XI vs Croydon North Travelling down to Hughes Park, Yarra Junction won the toss and sent Croydon North into bat.

It took 20 overs before Travis Nightingale made the breakthrough. Wickets fell at regular intervals, however, enough mini-partnerships saw Croydon North reach 5/214 at the conclusion of their 40 overs.

Opening with Marcel Kocher and Andrew Cowan, the visitors were unable to settle in and string together damaging partnerships.

Nightingale had a battling 28 while skipper Kevin Bomford hit a run a ball 44 but it wasn’t enough as Junction were bowled out for 154.

Yarra Junction 10/154 (K Bomford 44) def by Croydon North 5/214 (J Poynton 2/41)

Farewell to long-time Yarra Junction member

By Peter Brennan As Christmas inexorably approaches, as it seems to do every year, there are some at Yarra Junction Bowling Club who are welcoming the holiday break. Not so the Midweek Pennant team, who seem to be doing well without bowling a ball. They were due to host Ferntree Gully at home this week, but unfortunately for Ferntree Gully, the pestilence struck them down, and they were forced to forfeit with a number of their team afflicted with covid. This is a reminder to us all that the pandemic is not over, however much we might like to think it is. The silver lining is that Yarra Junction received full points, and remains firmly placed in third position.

With a bye next week and then the Christmas break, the Midweek competition at the moment is a stress-free environment.

Not so the Weekend team. It is just a short time since Yarra Junction was top of the ladder, but with very little dividing the top teams much can go wrong very quickly.

A crushing defeat last week at Mooroolbark plunged Junction to third, and this week the team travelled to Yarra Glen, to play on their brand-new green. Theoretically, a new green should dispel any local knowledge and home-ground advantage, but that isn’t how it played out.

The work that has been done at Yarra Glen should be commended. For some time the old green has resembled a ploughed field, but now there is a beautiful new green, new 34 MAIL

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Tuesday, 13 December, 2022

verandah, new shade cloths, and a very inviting atmosphere. It will be interesting to see how the green wears in over time, but at the moment it plays slow and narrow, and although Junction approached it with confidence they were comprehensively outplayed, losing all four rinks by a substantial margin.

All of a sudden Yarra Junction have slipped to fifth, and their position for the finals has become tenuous. The home game next week again Lilydale looms as do-or-die.

It is interesting, the difference between greens. Yarra Junction players love the green at Junction, it is slick and fast and they are hard to beat on it, but you cannot think of another quite like it, and the players struggle on the greens they visit, either grass or synthetic, that seem invariably slower and narrower, where they consistently fail. Unfortunately, these are the greens finals are played on, so they need to learn that the home-ground advantage may not be enough. Something to think about over the break, and maybe it is just a midseason slump. All is not lost.

Many thanks to those who organised the Christmas celebrations on Sunday where the club farewelled Nancy Stevens a long-time club member who is moving from the valley.

She will be greatly missed.

A reminder to those who are interested that we offer free coaching from the club’s fully accredited coach, and free use of equipment.

Happy Christmas to all.

L-R: Bev Foster with long-time friend and Yarra Junction Bowling Club member Nancy Stevens.

Picture: SUPPLIED mailcommunity.com.au

SPORT

First win for Warby 1 side

By Garry Lewis The Warburton 1 Weekend side recorded their first victory for the season against a determined Burwood Districts 1 side at home.

The Burras led for all the game and withstood several fightbacks from the visitors to record a confidence-boosting win, 81 shots to 63.

Rink scores were: T. Appleton 21/ 9; A. Donohue 16/ 22; C. Neale 30/ 8 and S. Lord 14/ 24. The Burras are determined to give their all against Mulgrave 1 at home before the break.

The Warburton 2 team played Croydon 4 away and had a disappointing loss by one shot overall, 78 shots to 79. The Burras failed to stop the fast finishing home side after leading for most of the game.

Rink scores were: F. Wagenaar 18/ 22; G. Wynd 18/ 16; Glenys Lewis 19/ 29 and P. Summers 23/ 12. They play the top side Ferntree Gully 3 at home this week as they look to regroup following the disappointment of the close loss.

The Midweek team played Lilydale 1 at home and in a frustrating performance went down 41 shots to 58. Rink scores were G. Walsh 13/ 19; N. Whelan 12/ 26 and R. McKail 16/ 13.

They play Healesville 1 away this week as they

The Warburton Weekend 2 side gathered before their game. look to regroup and get back on the winning list.

The Wednesday Night Barefoot Bowls Triples Competition played the second of three

Picture: SUPPLIED

double-headers of 8 ends each game. Unfortunately, the second round during the evening was reduced due to wet weather.

Neil Jorgensen from the Burra Boys team

commenced the evening well by winning the prize for the first player to touch the jack.

Round 4 results were as follows: Can’t Remember 12 d Giddy Gout 2; Bowls to the Walls 9 d Sheep Assist 4; Burra Boys 8 d Bolters 2; Wessie Wonders 7 d Moonshiners 6 and Pensioners 11 d Bee Gees 3.

Round 5 results were as follows: Giddy Gout 5 d Sheep Assist 2; Three Stooges 6 d Bolters 4; Moonshiners 12 d Bowls to the Walls 0; Burra Boys 6 d Thomos 4 and Can’t Remember 5 d Pensioners 1.

Once again the Club is conducting its’ PINK DAY Triples Tournament, sponsored by Professionals Real Estate, on Sunday 12 February 2023 from 12 midday. Female and Male entries accepted of all abilities, including Beginners. $10 per player ($30 per team) Three games, Raffle and Prizes and BBQ Sausage Sizzle. All proceeds go towards the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Entries to Rayna Zunneberg 0419472450 or the Club 59662391.

Any new or beginning members are welcome to join the small but progressive community club. Social Bowls continues to be played on Mondays from 12 midday with excellent numbers regularly participating. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun!

Farrier Cup won by Roger Mataele’s +5 Summer prep begins

By Ron Hottes

As Yarra Glen Bowls Club approaches the Christmas break, a lot of work is happening behind the scenes to keep the greens in good condition.

The tifdwarf grass green has been top dressed following completion of Saturday games with volunteer members pitching in Saturday night and Sunday.

Next week, the plinths will be replaced to ensure the green is maintained to pennant standard for years to come.

In Mid-Week pennant, their Division 1 side travelled to Whittlesea going down 50/76: P. Leonard 21/21; G. O’Brien 15/25; W. Edwards 14/30. Side 2 in Division 7 hosted Eastwood Golf, overall down 49/54. L. Baker 17/23; J. Senior 22/10; D. Milner 10/21.

On Saturday, the Division 1 side had another record family mix, with five father son combinations taking the field.

Playing away at Montmorency, an allrink effort resulted in a win 89/72.

B. Simmons 21/16; G. Senior 17/30; M. O’Brien 33/8; S. Manifold 18/18.

In Division 4, Side 2 played at home against Bayswater. With several key outs affecting the team, they suffered their first loss of the season 64/93.

S. Smith 18/18; W. Edwards 11/29; R. Thurkle 17/24; N. Milner 18/22.

In Division 7, Side 3 played at home to Yarra Junction team, taking maximum points in its 106/43 win.

S. Elliot27/9; J. Senior 24/11; T. Dickson 23/13; D. Batten 32/10.

Wednesday 7 December, Stroke and M. McGrann bag playoff: And so, 7 starters hit off to vie for the M. McGrann bag trophy (some qualifiers not with us anymore, some dual winners and an absentee meant that the full complement of 12 winners was not possible!) A very popular winner though was Merrilyn McDonald, with a steady Nett 70. This won her the bag, which will be presented to her on Presentation Saturday! Great result, Merrilyn! But, the daily winner, and first qualifier for the playoff next year, was David Wappett, with a slick Nett 66. Good shooting, Wapp! Peter Bell was the unlucky runner-up. I say unlucky because on any other Wednesday,

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By Ian Milgate Tuesday Pennant Healesville Bowls’ team 1 played away at Croydon and we were hoping for another win over them after the win we had when they travelled up to Healesville earlier in the year but it was not to be. It was a close game all day with only a shot or two either way, but in the end we were only able to win one rink going down 59 - 69 Robyn Turville, Rob Ayres, Ian Milgate, Steve Bulled 19 - 24 Steve Graham, Bob Brown, Rob Broadhurst, Gerda Otto 13 - 22 John Clark, Effie Laban, Russell Smith, Barry Parker 27 - 23 Team 2 played at home against Chirnside Park and continued their sizzling winning form beating Chirnside Park by a massive 66 shots 95 - 29. This side deserves being second on the ladder as all season they have been the stand out team where all the players have performed exceptionally well and connected with each other to get the results. For the third time this year the group have been able to achieve an 8 SHOT WIN on one end, well done guys.

Congratulations to John Fitzpatrick, Anne Holland, Leonie Fitzpatrick, Len Stewart 42 - 6, 8 shot end Gerry Gommers, Len Cosson, Ted Upton, Colin Jarvis 33 - 10 Mike Adams, Damian Key, Hilda Gurney, Judy Veermann 20 -13 Wednesday Corporate Bowls It was another great night for Corporate Bowls and some great bowls were played. Teams were really getting the hang of putting bowls down and I saw some very good heads of bowls, around the jack during the night. It’s also good to see the networking going on after the game

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day always produces some memorable scores. Our winner this year won with a memorable-+5, that being Roger Mataele.

This excellent result earnt him the Farrier’s Cup and the top voucher in A-Grade. The B-Grade prize was taken home by John Hall, continuing his recent “hot form!”

John posted a +4. The two runner-ups were Paul Kennedy (+3) and Chris Leighton (+1) respectively. The collective ball rundown, covering both grades, saw it reach “square”.

No NTP winners were listed in the results.

Finally, our two Christmas breakups are listed for Saturday 17 December(including Presentation), and for 21 December 21 for the Wednesday players! Don’t miss out members!

Massive win for Healesville 2 in midweek

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A lot of work happening behind the scenes to keep Yarra Glen Bowls Club’s greens in good condition.

Picture: SUPPLIED

his Nett 67 would see him claim the top voucher! Balls got down to 71 only. NTP winners were Tom Barr (3rd), Ross Machar (5th), Noel Cross (9th), John Hall (12th) and to Junior Garside (15th).

TWILIGHT: Seth Spenceley shot a terrific 9 holes to accrue 23 impressive points! ( Holidays agree with you, Seth!) John Hall grabbed the runner-up voucher with a “none-too-shabby” 21 points! These two cleared out from the rest of the field, and balls extended to 16 only. ( No NTP results were available at the time.)

Saturday 11 December, PAR and the MickCleary Farrier’s-Day: Named after a popular past member, this

One more week to go before the Christmas bowls break. between all the players over a quite refreshment. I’m sure there is a good exchange of ideas that come out of the discussions. Results for the night have two teams on equal first, Above Board Plastering & Total Shutters on 74 points Australian Hot Taps on 72, Provit Cult on 66.

In the elimination final Above Board Plastering will play Australian Hot Taps and Total Shutters will play Provit Cult. The final will be played on Wednesday night so come on down, have a snag and watch some competitive bowling for the eventual winner of the Charles Hort Memorial Trophy.

Saturday Pennant Team 1 played away at Boronia on a beautiful sunny day, and we had no excuses as the grass green was rolling exceptionally well. Steve Graham’s team were the stand out rink once again with Mark Hoffman’s team also coming home with a win. Unfortunately a couple of the teams were struggling due to player shortages, eventually going down 67 - 84.

Steve Graham, John Clark, Rob Ayres, Gerda Otto 25 - 14 Mark Hoffman, Colin Lowe, Robyn

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Turville, Ian Milgate 16 - 15

Ward, Steve Bulled, Brad Chandler, · Mark Mick Featherstone 19 - 26 Beales, Bob Brown, John Howard, · Adrian Judy Veermann 8 -29 Team 2 played at home against Blackburn North and we knew before the game that it was going to be a big ask for Healesville to win as we were 3 players short so each rink had to play 3 players against 4 players but to their credit they fought hard all day only going down by 7 shots 53 -60 Barry Parker, Glenda Graham, Ted Upton 21 - 20 Russell Smith, Rob Broadhurst, Karl Tok 13 -21 Mike Adams, Gerry Gommers, Leonie Fitzpatrick 19 - 19 A great effort by all players when they were playing at 75 per cent capacity.

Next week is the last week before Christmas so let’s make it a good one and bring it home with some Christmas Cheer. Our Christmas party will start after the completion of the games. Good luck everyone.

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MAIL 35

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Tuesday, 13 December, 2022

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