Mail - Upper Yarra Star Mail - 18th April 2023

Adventures off the scale

By Callum Ludwig

A new NDIS support work service based in the Yarra Ranges is sharing a passion for outdoor recreation in its care.

Owner of VentureTogether Josh Chesterman said he wanted to provide programs for those who might not be able to get out and do these activities without the care and support of a service provider that understands their needs.

“Our dream and one of the reasons we’re doing the school holiday program is to fund the growth of a team of staff who can eventually help me to put together eco therapy and wilderness adventure therapy programmes,” he said.

Children in the NDIS program from Grade 4 and up are welcome to join the VentureTogether team at the Wild about Wellbeing Farm in Wandin at 10am on Thursday 20 April to start the day of fun.

Reptile and insect expert Talia Van Bockel. Picture: SUPPLIED

Road crash spike

By Tanya Steele

The Easter break has been a busy time for emergency services with a number of accidents occurring in the area.

Maroondah Highway in Coldstream and Melba Highway in Yering have both been host

to a number of incidents on the roads in the last two weeks.

Most recently, a major collision occurred at 7.30pm on 12 April heading north from the intersection of Maroondah and Melba Highway in Coldstream.

A young male driver attempted to overtake and clipped the back of another vehicle heading in the opposite direction.

The accident resulted in a three car collision, fortunately there were no major injuries.

The driver was later apprehended by police of the Yarra Ranges Highway Patrol on

the Maroondah Highway.

“He had left the scene,” Highway Patrol Acting Sergeant Michael Pryor said.

The driver was processed at Lilydale Police Station, charged and released on bail.

Continued page 3

Concern over hours

By Tanya Steele

Health service provision in Healesville continues to be a source of concern for the Services for Healesville Hospital Action Group (SHHAG) as it has acquired new information regarding the day surgery operating hours.

SHHAG has been advised by a source who wishes to remain anonymous that services to the Healesville Day Surgery will be reduced imminently.

Chairperson Jane Judd is worried about the effects on primary health in the area.

“The concern is that Eastern Health is reducing from five days to three days and stepping back from Endoscopy services in Healesville,” she said.

Ms Judd is also concerned staff potentially would be moved to other facilities in this scenario.

SHHAG has been in operation since 2012 and aims to promote more services to the hospital.

“We need more, not fewer services”, Ms Judd said.

SHHAG also continues to advocate for increased services and urgent care in Healesville.

Ms Judd said Healesville needs these services due to its growing population and the influx of tourists coming to the area over the weekends.

“It can take up to 50 minutes to reach Ma-

roondah Hospital,” she said.

The group has appealed to Eildon MP Cindy McLeish about the issue and it will be taken to parliament this week.

Ms Judd wants to see a range of services implemented in the Healesville location.

“We want to see urgent care as part of the new plan and we want to see increased surgical activity specialist services with things like dental extractions, ear nose and throat and cataract procedures,” she said.

The Department of Health was contacted regarding the issue and maintains that if any changes were planned in relation to surgery at Healesville, Eastern Health would engage with anyone who might be impacted.

When planning health services the Department of Health said that population, community needs, clinical capability and capacity, proximity to other services, and overall demand for services are all considered.

“Eastern Health is committed to maximising theatre sessions across all campuses to deliver the surgical needs of the broader Eastern Health community,” a Department of Health spokesperson said.

“We can confirm that Healesville is being optimised and utilised to capacity.”

“I would be pleasantly surprised if that is the case,” Ms Judd said.

SHHAG is mindful that the time period for the ten year plan for the Eastern Health Clinical Services plan from 2012 to 2022 has lapsed.

The plan was a document that proposed substantial reductions and Ms Judd is very interested in further announcements from Eastern Health.

Eastern Health released a new document labelled “Working Together Towards 2025 Eastern Health Strategic Plan for 2023-2025” on 27 February.

SHHAG awaits further information regarding Eastern Health’s clinical services document.

“We are very interested to see what the next ten year plan is,” Ms Judd said.

The Department of Health has stated there are currently no plans underway to alter days or hours at the site.

Road accidents rife over Easter Break

From page 1

Two vehicles were taken away that evening on tow trucks. Coldstream CFA were later called to the scene around 8.50pm to assist with the wash away.

Over the Easter long weekend, two serious collisions occurred on different days on the same section of Melba Highway in Yering. On both occasions, the driver left the paved road section on a bend, which resulted in an accident.

Lilydale SES unit controller Shaun Caulfield said environmental factors were unlikely to be at fault but more care needed to be taken. “It’s not a blind corner and you can see really well, but sometimes people do not handle that bend with the appropriate level of care,” he said. One accident had taken place on Good Friday 7 April around 3 pm, SES were called to the scene by a passerby.

It appeared the driver had collided with a power pole but escaped injury.

The second and larger accident occurred on Saturday 8 April at approximately 4.45 pm.

Mr Caulfield said it appeared one car lost control after clipping a pole as it was heading towards Lilydale along the Melba Highway, but there was nothing to suggest the car was speeding. “There’s a reasonable chance that this made the difference between it being an injury crash and a serious injury or

fatality crash,” he said.

Allegedly, the car had spun out into the path of another vehicle and another car had to swerve to avoid the collision.

SES members assisted the ambulance staff on the scene that afternoon, while five people were assessed for injuries.

Ambulance Victoria confirmed four people were taken to different hospitals for further care and all have since been confirmed to be in stable condition.

Captain Sean Bethell said the last two weeks have been a hectic time and he confirmed that there had been several other accidents recently, including the one on Wednesday. “Over the Easter break we had several callouts,” he said.

A number of other accidents took place in

the previous week, including a four car pile up on 2 April on Maroondah Highway and on 5 April a young driver was also involved in a car rollover in Gruyere in the early morning.

No lives have been lost in these accidents but statewide data inVictoria confirms there have been 91 deaths on roads in 2023.

This is up from 74 lives lost during the same time period of last year.

Fatigue, distracted driving, speeding and substance based impairment are the main causes of road trauma.

Lilydale SES and Coldstream CFA urged people to take care when driving and remain focused on the roads to avoid accidents.

“Slow down and concentrate on what’s happening in front of you on the road,” Mr Bethell said.

Upper Yarra SES member assists in missing person search

One member from the Upper Yarra SES Unit helped search the Hallam Valley Wetlands alongside other SES units and emergency services to find a missing person.

Crews conducted line searches through mud, swamp, grasses, tea tree and dense reeds that often towered above their heads during the search.

SES Narre Warren was first asked to assist Victoria Police in the search from Tuesday 11 to Thursday 13 April, and reached out to other units with over 60 members from 17 units turning out to lend another pair of eyes.

The search was for missing 27-year-old Wantirna woman Sarah who was last seen in Narre Warren on 23 March in the afternoon.

It is understood she was also seen in Sladen Street, Cranbourne on Wednesday 22 March.

Sarah is described as being of Caucasian appearance with blonde hair, last seen wearing a green jumper, cream track pants, white sneakers and yellow singlet.

Police and family are concerned due to her medical conditions and her disappearance being out of character.

Crews were also supported by the Victoria Police Drone Unit, Mounted Branch and Search and Rescue squad as well as Search and Rescue Dogs Australia.

QFF detected again in Wandin

A Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) has been detected in a local trap in the Wandin area, affecting growers in Wandin North and Wandin East.

Growers are urged to begin or continue trapping and baiting on their properties to protect their crops from QFF and most importantly, prevent QFF from establishing in the area.

It is advisable for all home gardeners, fruit growers, and land managers in Wandin to take action to prevent QFF.

Yarra Glen vehicle stolen in crime spree

On 2 April, an aggravated burglary occurred in Bayswater North where it is alleged the resident was assaulted when they confronted the offender.

Investigators from Maroondah Crime Investigation Unit were able to identify the man allegedly involved and arrest him on 5 April.

In the early hours of 6 April, (with the assistance of Croydon Divisional Response Unit), investigators from Maroondah CIU executed a search warrant at a Mooroolbark address.

Stolen property was located inside the address, which has been linked to various other recent crimes.

A man was found hiding on a neighbour’s balcony and was subsequently arrested. Drugs that the man allegedly threw from the balcony prior to his arrest were also recovered. As a result of this arrest, investigators solved the following:

· 1 x Aggravated Burglary, Theft and Assault from Bayswater North;

· 1 x Burglary and 1 x Theft of Motor Vehicle from Warranwood;

· 1 x Burglary and Theft from Ringwood;

· 1 x Theft from Motor Vehicle from Prahran;

· 1 xTheft from MotorVehicle fromYarra Glen.

A 33-year-old man from Mooroolbark was charged with these offences and was remanded into custody to reappear at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on 8 May.

Healesville Hospital. Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Emergency services have urged people to be careful on the roads. Picture: LILYDALE SES

Sanctuary strike continues

By Tanya Steele

Melbourne Zoos are taking strike action this April with limitations on some of the usual zoo experiences as staff fight for better pay conditions.

All three zoos in Victoria, including Healesville Sanctuary, will be experiencing hiccups these school holidays as staff members from the United Workers Union take a variety of industrial strike actions from Friday 7 April until Sunday 23 April.

A Healesville Sanctuary spokesperson said the zoo will continue to be open and operational.

“We respect our employees’ right to take this action and we value all of our employees.

Some zoo experiences will be cancelled as a result of reduced capacity and we expect this action to continue until the end of April, however our zoos will be open as usual and be welcoming visitors throughout the school holidays.

We are still in good faith negotiations with unions on this issue but, while the action is ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further.”

The United Workers Union (UWU) members will be participating in a number of actions that include:

· Wearing a union shirt instead of a uniform

· A ban on keeper talks

· A ban on animal ‘encounters’.

· A ban on animal presentations.

· A ban on feeding of animals in display areas, except for safety or animal welfare purposes.

· A ban on emptying bins and picking up litter, apart from in the instances of public safety or animal welfare.

The strike action commenced due to a dispute over worker wages.

UWU executive director Godfrey Moase

said workers at Zoos Victoria say the Government’s revised wages offer of three per cent was insubstantial.

“While the union welcomes the Government’s move away from the insulting original 1.5 percent offer, three percent still doesn’t cut it and it will see wages at the zoo and across

the public sector go backwards once again,” he said.

Mr Mosae said the union has called for a removal of a wages cap and a return to bargaining with the workers who keep the zoos and the State progressing.

“While we understand there isn’t a bot-

tomless money pit for the Government to dip into, it’s really unfair that workers at the zoo and in every workplace in Australia are continuing to bear the brunt of economic decisions made by those who don’t need to worry about their next mortgage repayment or rent increase,” he said.

Zoo staff who are members participate in a number actions during the strike.

Picture: ON FILE

CIS is on brink of closure

By Mikayla van Loon

At a time when community support services are needed the most, one of the Yarra Ranges’ key financial and information services is on the brink of closure due to a lack of funding.

The Community Information and Support Victoria (CISVic) Yarra Ranges branch, based in Lilydale, has had to cut back servicing hours and reduce staff to stay afloat.

But CISVic executive officer Kate Wheller said without immediate and ongoing increased funding, the branch would likely be unable to stay open past the end of the year, leaving a major gap in support for residents.

“We’re in a dire situation and without additional funding or cheaper accommodation, we will be forced to close the service by the end of the year,” she said.

Formerly known as Lilydale Assist which had been helping the community for more than 40 years, Ms Wheller said CISVic took over management of the service when it became apparent the dedicated volunteers could no longer effectively run it on their own.

“We took over the management of it four years ago and up to that time, it was solely run by an incredibly passionate and dedicated team of volunteers, many who had been there for decades,” she said.

“This wasn’t a sustainable model and it had been struggling for some time to maintain the volunteer workforce that it needed to continue operating. So we knew when we took over that there were going to be challenges because the service was effectively underfunded.

“It didn’t have capacity to employ any paid staff and the existence of volunteer only agencies in the current context is very difficult for sustainability.”

During the Covid-19 pandemic CIS Yarra Ranges was able to bring on a paid staff member to help with coordination of the service

and training of volunteers because of an increase in funding.

Since then, however, funding has returned to a pre pandemic level, making it unsustainable for the service to provide what it had been able to during those years.

“What we found during Covid was that all levels of government really stepped up, they were able to put forward additional funding to support the community through the crisis of the pandemic.

“But the ripple effects of the pandemic are still being felt and we have more people in hardship than pre pandemic and we’ve gone back to pre pandemic funding. So we’re trying to support more people with less money.”

Even with limited opening hours at the Lilydale office, Ms Wheller said currently volunteers are supporting at least 10 and 12 individuals and families each day.

“We’re still seeing people who are in really significant personal and financial hardship that have key issues around limited income, housing costs, utility bills, medical and household expenses. So people are really struggling and with the cost of daily living, it’s just getting harder.”

While in this year’s round of Yarra Ranges Council’s partnership grants, a four year funding commitment program, CIS Yarra Ranges received an annual funding assurance of $30,000, MsWheller said it won’t be enough for

the longevity of the service.

“We did apply through the grant process for more money than we received and the $30,000 that we have received is the exact same amount of funding that we’ve received for many, many years without any indexation in an environment where we’ve got rising costs.”

One of the main reasons this funding is not suitable is because CIS Yarra Ranges operates out of a commercial building space, where rent costs $20,000 annually.

For many of CISVic’s other agencies, they operate from council leased spaces where the rent is reduced to peppercorn rates or none at all.

“We are incredibly grateful to Yarra Ranges Council for their support and their enduring commitment to the service but it’s just not enough money.

“It’s not the right arrangement for us to be in a private commercial property and spending two thirds of the money on rent.”

Yarra Ranges Council did provide consultants to put together a report identifying funding options but Ms Wheller said early indications suggest there are little to no avenues that can be taken.

“If the service is to continue past the end of this year, we need, effectively, a significant increase in funding and an alternative venue to operate from.”

CISVic doesn’t only rely on funding from the council but also from the Federal government’s emergency relief funding and other streams but they also have kept up with demand.

Over the next eight months, Ms Wheller said she would remain in conversation with the council about finding an alternative space to rent, as well as advocating to the State government for coordination funding to provide the wages for a coordinator at each CISVic agency.

CIS Yarra Ranges won’t be able to sustain its service past the end of the year without immediate financial support. 325749 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

The company has been successfully managing several aquatic centers in the area, including Yarra Centre, Monbulk Aquatic Centre, Kilsyth Centenary Pool (which has recently closed), Seville Water Park, and the Lilydale, Healesville, and Belgrave outdoor pools for many years.

Darren Allen, the Area Manager, expressed his delight at the inclusion of Jack Hort Pool to their management portfolio. He said that the company saw great potential in the pool’s management and growth to serve the Healesville community. Ross, who managed the facility for almost 30 years, has done a wonderful job, and the company celebrates his legacy while looking forward to taking the pool to the next level.

Jack Hort Pool boasts of a 6-lane, 25-metre indoor pool, a toddler tub pool, and increased swim school class availability, aquatic activity, and open hours to cater to the demand.

Belgravia Leisure brings years of experience and local knowledge. They have maintained all previous staff at Jack Hort Pool, while expanding employment to include more swim school teachers, aqua exercise instructors and dedicated lifeguards for all hours.

Residents of Healesville and the surrounding areascannowenjoyalltheservicesandbenefits thatBelgraviaLeisurehasdeliveredintheYarra Ranges for years. These include reciprocal rights to access all facilities under the one membership, year-round swimming program, great value memberships, and quality service.

Tributes flow for teenager

By Mikayla van Loon

AYarra Ranges family is mourning the death of their bright and blooming daughter and sister after a chroming incident left her in a critical condition in hospital where she later died.

Esra Haynes, 13, died last weekend following the inhalation of deodorant which saw her go into cardiac arrest and battle in hospital for a week.

The death of the Lilydale High School Year 8 student and Don Valley resident has sent ripples of shock and emotion throughout the Yarra Ranges community.

Parents Paul and Andrea Haynes told the Herald Sun just days after their daughter’s passing they would vow to raise awareness around the risks of chroming.

“We want to help other children not fall into the silly trap of doing this silly thing,” he said.

“It’s unquestionable that this will be our crusade. No matter how much you lead a horse to water, anyone can drag them away. It’s not something she would have done on her own.”

In the days following, Esra’s siblings have also told news outlets they would be honouring their sister by ensuring no one else has to go through their pain.

“It’s just a toxic thing and I just want to put awareness out there that it can happen very quickly and we don’t want to lose anymore amazing people,” Esra’s brother Seth Haynes told The Project.

“When we’re strong enough, we want to go around and talk at schools and tell our story of what we went through, if we can help one person that’s enough,” sister Imogen Haynes said.

As friends and family came to terms with Esra’s sudden death, they took to social media to pay tribute to the girl she was.

“The one girl who could put a smile on anyone’s face no matter what. There wasn’t one day in the past three years you’ve not made my day by your contagious laugh and gorgeous smile,” Esra’s best friend Abbey posted to Facebook.

“My heart aches and it doesn’t feel real knowing I’ll have to say goodbye to you Esra. You’re so young. You were gone too soon.

“I’ll stay trying to make you proud and continue doing the things that made you happy. I endlessly love and miss you Esra. Rest In Paradise my love. Forever 13.”

Described by her sister as someone who was “blooming”, Imogen told Channel Nine she was “so kind, generous, helped everyone before herself always, she’s just one in a million”.

As a sporty teenager who had competed in aerobic state championships and had been named captain of her Montrose Football Club Under 14s team in the 2023 season, Imogen said she was “our little AFL girl”.

“We reckon she would have gone far in

footy, she just kicked up this year and if she kept playing the way she was, she would have definitely gone far,” Imogen said in an interview.

Heartbroken by the news, Montrose Football Netball Club took to social media to share their condolences.

“Esra came to our club last year, she played in the Under 12 Girls team where she fitted in seamlessly,” it read.

“In her short time at the club, Esra went from strength to strength as a leader on the field, and at training.

“Esra was determined, fun, cheeky and talented, she will be greatly missed by her teammates, coaches, and the wider community of our Club.”

Since her death, a GoFundMe page has been established by Joanne Semmens to support the Haynes family.

“I would like her family to have some stress taken off them at this horrible time. Everyone feels helpless in these circumstances but being able to donate some money can help the community give something to the family,” Joanne wrote.

Within days, the fundraiser exceeded its original $5000 target, which was then extended to $10,000, that too being reached by Friday afternoon.

To locate the fundraiser, go to www.gofundme.com/f/esra-haynes-memory

Joel -Venue Manager, Ross - Duty Manager, Ben and Melissa - Pool Lifeguards and Nola - Duty Manager.

Esra Haynes, 13, was sporty and full of life but one mistake cost her life. Picture: SOCIAL MEDIA

The Montrose Football Club player had just been picked to co-captain the Under 14s girls side.

Final road cash allocated

By Callum Ludwig

Disappointment continues to be felt by residents around the Yarra Ranges at the funding cut for the Roads for Community program.

Yarra Ranges Council provided an update on the status of the sealing projects that remained at the Tuesday 11 April Council meeting.

Lyster Ward Councillor Johanna Skelton said it was with sadness that she put forward the motion.

“Whilst I’m sure across the room we are all extremely grateful and thankful that we’ve been able to deliver a substantial amount of roads across the region to the value of almost $50 million, it is about one-third of the amount that we planned for and that the community were hoping for and expecting,” she said.

“We have to decide how best to expend the remainder of that money and what to do with those schemes that have already been declared but hadn’t gone to tender.”

The Federal Government sent out a formal notification to Yarra Ranges Council on 19 December 2022 which was received on 10 January 2023 to confirm the initial $150 million of funding would be reduced to almost $47.7 million, meaning it was no longer financially possible for Council to fulfil the entire priority list of road sealing projects.

Cr Skelton said she would like really thank the Council’s officers for the ongoing sensible and difficult decisions that they have had to make in putting this process through its paces.

“The option put forward here, that the allocation of that remaining amount happens in the order of first schemes to declare through to until it runs out, is a sensible one because the order of the road listing in the first place was put there because it took in a lot of criteria,” she said.

“First up, we had the roads for schools and community halls and then the very high use and high-density roads and then continuing down, I feel like it makes sense for us to then allocate the remainder of the funds in that formation.”

Up to March 2023, Council had spent $22,966,836 on the completed projects. A further $25,967523 is committed for future expenditure on projects at Practical Completion, projects in construction, projects at the design stage and staffing costs, for a total of $48,934,359.

$47,656,000 in Federal funding and $7,748,270 garnered from landowners through the Special Charges Scheme from projects declared under construction leaves Council with an estimated surplus of $6,469,911 which will go towards remaining priority projects.

Streeton Ward Councillor Andrew Fullagar said the funding cut now necessitates costly internal reviews and reports and communications with residents. “It’s one of those items tonight where I wish we didn’t have to be discussing it, and it’s no fault of our Council or our staff. There will be much disappointment to many residents if they are on the wrong side of the line as to what we can achieve and what we can’t,” he said.

“We have been able to complete nearly $48 million worth of sealing which is a substantial amount and to that extent, we should be grateful that we’ve done a third of the allocation before it was cut from underneath us.”

13 projects previously declared for Special Charges Scheme are left without any commitment to the costs of carrying them out. Seven of these would be carried out as anticipated, with $785,973 leftover based on estimates and

these additional savings would be held to fund future road sealing projects.

The following roads will be sealed as anticipated, ordered in the date of the special charge declaration:

· Alpine Street, Cecil Street and Glenbrook Road, Warburton

· Emery Lane, Montrose

· Welham Road, Mooroolbark

· Bretby Way, Montrose

· Alfred Street, John Street, Wandin North

· Tainton Street, Railway Parade, Wandin North

· Cedar Court, Burns Way (Includes Harvest Close), Loch Avenue, Mayview Drive, Monbulk

A review of the Special Charges Scheme is now required to establish priorities regarding road sealing and the level of funding for projects provided by the Council and landowners.

19 petitions requesting road sealing from landowners remain before Council without funding commitments:

· Breen Terrace Group, Ferny Creek

· Gerratts Avenue, Upwey

· Warra Road, Upwey

· Nigel Court, Badger Creek

· Wilkilla Road, Mt Evelyn

· Launching Place Primary School Group, Launching Place

· Edward Street, Wesburn

· Pavitt Lane, Kilsyth

· Wanda Avenue and part of Darinda Avenue, Wandin North

· William Road, The Patch

· Selby Road, Woori Yallock

· Clements Avenue andVerona Street Belgrave South

· Paynes Road (Warburton Highway to 9 Paynes Road), Seville

· McNamaras Road, Millgrove

· Knolls Lane, Silvan

· Brumfield Road and Bonnies View, Healesville

· Roach Road, Lilydale

· Wiseman Road, Silvan

· Wedderburn Crescent, Mt Evelyn

Cr Fullagar said while the Special Charges Scheme will have to be reprioritized and relooked at, at least there is some hope for those people really desiring their roads to be sealed in the future.

“I regret the anguish this is going to cause to some residents who thought that their roads would be sealed in the next year or two and now might be three, four, five or six years away,” he said.

“But I think this is the most responsible choice so that we don’t stop the bleeding of money rolling out, it’s the most appropriate course of action so I support this recommendation.”

The motion was carried unanimously.

Extra boost: Funding helps build community resilience

Community resilience building in the Yarra Ranges just received an extra boost with funding being awarded to Outer Eastern Foodshare (OEF) to help coordinate more than 80 organisations who help people when they’re in need.

The funding is part of the $10 million Preparing Australian Communities (PAC) Grant from the Federal Government. The PAC program aims to enable communities to better mitigate, avoid, withstand, and recover from the increasing effects of natural hazards as a result of climate change, through activities that build resilience.

OEF will be working in partnership with Yarra Ranges Council and Yarra Ranges Emergency Relief Network (YRERN) which is a collection of not-for-profit local community service providers that support people with a range of assistance including food, household items, health care, counselling, social connection and financial counselling.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said these funds would enable OEF to employ a project coordinator to help coordinate and strengthen links between OEF, theYRERN and its member organisations to help build better resilience for communities in the Yarra Ranges.

OEF is a not-for-profit, volunteer-based organisation that collects food (up to 100 tonnes of perishable and non-perishable food) from food distribution agencies such as Foodbank Victoria, Second Bite, Fareshare and Oz Harvest as well as donations from local food producers. It distributes this to local food relief agencies to share with local people who are doing it tough.

“We all know how important it is for communities to work together when faced with adversity and this grant is a great step to continue building resilience in the Yarra Ranges,” Cr Child said.

“OEF does an excellent job of collecting and distributing food to agencies across the Yarra Ranges – in fact they do such a good job that this can be as much as 100 tonnes of

food each year.

“As an incorporated organisation and part of the YRERN, OEF offers vast experience and provide a wide range of services including food relief, financial support, accommodation assistance, counselling. We’re pleased they are able to continue their great work in building resilience in the Yarra Ranges.”

The PAC grant is also funding:

· Place based resilience planning – Will bring communities, local businesses, support organisations and agencies together from Monbulk, Healesville, Yarra Junction and their surrounds to benchmark and strengthen resilience.

· Resilient energy precinct – A joint venture with Monash University and Council to assess the feasibility for a resilient microgrid across essential buildings in Monbulk.

· Resilient buildings – Multiple Council community buildings that serve as emergency relief centres will be upgraded with a generator plug-in point and/or solar power capabilities.

· Tree management and clean-up – Funding requested to complete clean-up in Council open spaces and bushlands from the 2021 storm, as well as delivering a proactive tree management program in high-risk areas.

· Changing places facility – Provides suitable facilities for people who are unable to use standard accessible toilets at Kilsyth Sports Centre, which is also a designated emergency relief centre. This fills a need in the provision of emergency amenities for people who are unable to use standard accessible amenities.

· Bushfire risk assessment – A bushfire risk assessment will be commissioned for the areas of the Dandenong Ranges impacted by the 2021 storm which will assist in the rebuilding process.

· Emergency relief network – Will strengthen the role and involvement of theYarra Ranges Emergency Relief Network to provide better coordinated support and material aid resources across Yarra Ranges.

Outer East Foodshare will help coordinate 80 organisations who support those in need with Federal government funding.

Picture: OUTER EAST FOODSHARE

Disappointment continues to be felt regarding the funding cut for the Roads for Community initiative.

Picture: ON FILE

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Oakridge is top winery

By Tanya Steele

The฀Real฀Review฀has฀voted฀Oakridge฀Wines฀in฀ Coldstream as the number one winery in Australia and the Winery of the Year for 2023.

฀Chief฀Winemaker฀David฀Bicknell฀jokingly฀ said it has only taken 20 years to become an overnight success but he and the other staff are pleased by the result.

“The key to the whole thing is that the experienced team here are very good at growing grapes,” he said.

The Real Review is in its sixth year and this is the second time in three years that a Yarra Valley winery has taken the top spot.

฀Oakridge฀is฀quite฀an฀established฀winery฀ and has been present in theYarraValley region since 1978.

฀Mr฀Bicknell฀said฀quality฀winemaking฀is฀a฀ slow and patient process.

“We’ve got to the point of maturity as a business where it’s all really sort of coming together,” he said.

฀Oakridge฀has฀done฀well฀in฀recent฀years฀with฀ the฀Review฀but฀Mr฀Bickenll฀said฀they฀knew฀this฀ year was a pretty good contender.

Wineries are dependent on the weather and the growing season, with a variety of factors influencing the final product.

“2021 was a really fair year for us in terms of whether we have reasonable crops and the conditions were just really ideal in many ways,”฀Mr฀Bicknell฀said.฀

“The thing is that some years are too hot and some years too wet and 2021 was just right,” he said.

฀Mr฀Bicknell฀said฀they฀have฀a฀few฀more฀very฀ busy฀weeks฀ahead฀at฀Oakridge฀while฀tending฀to฀ this year’s vintage.

“We’re putting celebrations on ice until we finish the season,” he said.

The winery staff are already looking forward฀to฀future฀products฀and฀Mr฀Bicknell฀said฀ they are always striving to produce good wine.

฀“Our฀focus฀is฀now฀on฀the฀next฀year฀because฀ we want to do better,” he said.

Welcoming all to WVCEDA

By Callum Ludwig

Running a business can easily run you off your feet, and entrepreneurs across the Upper Yarra could certainly feel as though they have a million things to contend with at once.

The Warburton Valley Community Economic Development Association (WVCEDA) is welcoming any and all providers of goods and services spanning the Warburton Highway to join the group, helping each other network and problem-solve. President of WVCEDA Cleo Silva said they have an inaugural business expo coming up in Warburton in May and want to connect, promote, develop and strengthen local businesses.

“Warburton Valley CEDA is really trying to bring local businesses together because we can be a little isolated just working on our businesses all the time, and we all have a lot of similar and different experiences so it’s a great chance to connect,” she said.

“We also hold a business networking event for members at a different business every quarter, and people just come together, we’re really trying to get the message out there that we’re working towards creating a vibrant business community.”

Wednesday May 10th 2023

WVCEDA has been operating since 2014 and has now reached 90 members who actively help advocate for the interests of local businesses in the Upper Yarra, including providing input and feedback to local, state and federal government agencies. Recently, WVCEDA has been involved in advocacy meetings regarding road closures and the management of towns in the region as visitor destinations. Ms Silva said it’s not just about tourism businesses either as they are pushing to have more services and tradespeople involved as well.

“We really want more of our local tradies and services involved who perhaps don’t otherwise get to connect with businesses on

site, because it’s an opportunity for them to provide their service to group members as well,” she said.

“Whether it be construction or people in payroll services and accounting, we’re all using the same kind of services, so you can get recommendations and references to local businesses for support and information as well as see what other businesses are doing, the successes they’ve had or how they troubleshoot problems.”

The group regularly has guest speakers on business matters and social media engagement, as well as hosting workshops on things like grant writing.

Ms Silva said by being a WVCEDA member, you also have access to information firsthand a greater opportunity to put your voice out there.

“We feed back to Yarra Rangers Council, we feed back to State Government, we feed back to key stakeholders like Parks Victoria or the Department of Transport,” she said.

“As a sole business, your voice can be quite small but we’ve got quite a loud voice and if we need to advocate or communicate on behalf of our businesses, that’s what we can do.”

The new 2023 Warburton Valley CEDA Committee consists of:

•฀President:฀Cleo฀Silva฀(Silva฀Coffee฀Roasters)

•฀Vice฀President:฀Alison฀Fitzgerald฀(Yarra฀ Ranges Enterprise Centre)

•฀Secretary:฀Monica฀Blanchfield฀(Bulong฀ Estate)

•฀Treasurer:฀Dale฀Feim฀(Dalcorp฀Accounting); Sam Maddock (Warburton Adventure Co); Lindy Schneider (Lindy SchneiderWriter); Jacqui Harvey (YarraValley Gourmet Foods);฀Christine฀Birch฀(Oscar’s฀on฀the฀Yarra)

Any enquiries or requests to join can be sent to Info@warburtonvalley.org.

OakridgeWineryhastakenthetopspotatRealReview.

Picture:SUPPLIED

Learn about new standards

By Callum Ludwig

Efforts to improve child safety and prevent harm and abuse have ramped up in Victoria, with the passing of the Child Protection Reform and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2022 and updates to the Victorian Child Safe Standards in May and July 2022 respectively and a regulatory framework for the standards in place from this year.

The Yarra Ranges, Knox and Maroondah Councils have teamed up with ChildSafe Australia to host an online Community Information Session on Tuesday 16 May to keep locals updated on the changes.

ChildSafe Australia General Manager Neil Milton said that ChildSafe believe creating a culture of child safety and understanding the standards and what’s expected of organisations needs to be a community initiative.

“The standards are focused on creating safer environments for children off the back of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse and the national principles around child safety,” he said.

“They are helping organisations to give a voice to children, making sure First Nations people and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds are supported and creating a culture and framework in organisations to make sure that children are safe and free from harm and abuse.”

Announced by the Federal Government in 2012, the final report on the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse was released in 2017. An initial seven Child Safe Standards commenced in Victoria in January 2016, with last year’s update modifying that to 11.

Mr Milton said we need to do everything in our power to understand that the trauma from child sexual abuse can be lifelong.

“It can’t just be one organisation doing something and another organisation not doing something. When organisations understand that, compliance with the standards becomes something they are aware of the importance of,” he said.

“Therefore, if a child goes from one organisation to another, they’re going to get the same kind of care. Parents and carers have an implicit trust in organisations, they expect them to keep their children safe and have everything in place to do that.”

The online Zoom information sessions will go over two hours from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and will cover the changes, discuss the standards with a spotlight on governance, child-safe recruitment and training of staff and volunteers, and recognising and reporting abuse before finishing with the implications and a chance for questions.

Mr Milton said with more understanding will fulfil the standard’s goal to prevent harm and abuse to children but also give them a chance to strive and grow in the community.

“Knowledge is power, but you could have all the knowledge in the world and with no cation, children would still be abused. But with

knowledge and understanding of the child safety standards, trauma, abuse and creating child-safe environments, they’ve got everything they need in order to make sure they can put this in place,” he said.

“As a survivor myself of child sex abuse, I was let down by an organisation and the reality is that that trauma lives on and you’ve got to face it every single day. If organisations choose to put children first, give them a voice and provide a safe environment, less will likely be abused.”

To find out more about the updated Child Safe Standards, visit www.ccyp.vic.gov.au/ child-safe-standards/new-child-safe-stan-

dards-now-apply.

To register for the information session, go to www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Experience/ Events/New-Child-Safe-Standards-Information-Session?fbclid=IwAR1UsXY8mqH4M2L2 uyIpYdVfLG0hP4Om5Xwkr5ggwEAgK89RXVjiCw4MBAo.

For immediate concerns about the safety of a child, contact the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, Child Protection Crisis Line by telephone on 13 12 78. To discuss child abuse concerns, including historical events, you can contact a Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team (SOCIT) member at Knox (03) 9881 7939.

Hillcrest CFA raise over $4000 for Good Friday Appeal

By Callum Ludwig

Hillcrest Fire Brigade made a sizeable contribution to last week’s record-breaking Good Friday Appeal.

Walking the streets and knocking on doors in Woori Yallock, Launching Place and Don Valley, brigade members managed to raise an astonishing $4091.40 for the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Brigade member Rochelle Poulton led the effort and said everyone was really proud of the amount they raised.

“Especially as we had a lot of members and residents away on holidays as its the first year we’ve been able to get away for Easter for a while, so it was a great effort,” she said.

“Over the course of two days, we jumped in the truck and were dropped off a street and we just kept knocking and walking until we couldn’t go any further before getting dropped off at the next street, with one person back at the chance for anyone who visited to donate.”

Of the $23,061,320 total raised across Australia, CFA volunteers raised $1,606,287.

Ms Poulton said residents loved seeing brigade members rock up to their houses.

“People were just really proud in general of us doing the door knock and helping out with the Good Friday Appeal despite the weather. We did brave it with some ponchos at one point because the rain was starting to get a bit heavy,” she said.

“You find more often than not that the people who are struggling the most do often give more because they know what it’s like to be in a hard situation.They’ll tell you that they

were once in a bad position and they’re more than happy to help out now because they’re in a position where they can help out and it just makes them feel good about themselves.”

The money will go towards supporting new and ongoing programs at the Royal Children’s Hospital such as Cardiac projects, the Centre for Health Analytics, the

of the Melbourne Children’s Campus Mental Health Strategy and vibrant youth program Chronic Illness Peer Support (ChIPS).

development

Hillcrest CFA volunteers preparing to head out to fundraise.

Picture: ROCHELLE POULTON

An online community information session to educate community groups and organisations on new Child Safe Standards.

Picture: UNSPLASH

Mustering up volunteers

By Callum Ludwig

Being in one of the most at-risk bushfire areas in the country, the Millgrove Residents Action Group (MRAG) rightfully want to make sure the local community is as safe as possible from the threat of fire.

MRAG has partnered up with the Australian Resilience Corps and Connecting Communities Australia to host a ‘Millgrove Muster’ event, taking the time to clear out dangerous debris.

MRAG President Maureen Halit said it’s all part of their work to to help build a more resilient community.

“MRAG has always had the safety of the community in mind when creating our beautiful gardens and lawns and has also created a clear safe place alongside the CFA Refuge,” she said.

“We have finished stage one of the River Road track and are now working on the Dee Road side of the Yarra. Recreating this area will also reduce the huge amount of fire matter hence making it a safer place whilst utilising our very popular river banks. “

There are three opportunities to help get involved with the clean up: Wednesday 26 April, Thursday 27 April and Friday 28 April from 9am to 3pm. Registration can be done at: www. resiliencecorps.org.au/musters/.

The Millgrove Muster is part of MRAG’s larger partnership with the Minderoo Foundation (founding partners of the Australian Resilience Corps) and its Fire and Flood Resilience initiative, with their partners ResilientCo and the Australian Institute of Disaster Resilience.

Minderoo Foundation’s Resilient Communities Project Manager Jamie Loyd reinforced the importance of how a community-driven co-created resilience plan can create more access to funding as it showcases the tool that they’re using for building resilience.

“All parties, from local government to funders to practitioners, can walk beside communities, not in front or behind them, but next to them and support them through their resilience journey,” he said in a statement.

Volunteers of the Millgrove Muster will be taking part in cutting back excess vegetation and tree branches, revegetation (particularly along the riverbank) and weed control.

Managing Director of ResilientCo Brett Ellis stated that they’re seeing the Millgrove community coming together and connecting so much more.

“Not every plan is going to work for every household or every business, but they need to work through that and look at what their exposure is to that risk and have a plan in place with their family or their workers around how they’ll

deal with that particular challenge,” he said. Volunteers are told to wear closed-toe shoes, a long sleeve shirt and long pants. They are encouraged to bring a sweater, rain jacket, broadbrimmed hat and sun protection depending on the weather as well as lunch, snacks and water. All volunteers must be older than 18 and will be covered by public liability and volunteer insurance by registering.

Excitement aplenty at Yarra Valley ECOSS event

By Callum Ludwig

Yarra Valley ECOSS held a day buzzing with activity on Friday 14 April, with a wide range of different eco-friendly activities.

The usual ECOSSValley Market was bookended on either side by tree planting in the Food Forest and a Hot Compost Workshop early in the afternoon, and a cultured food demo from Taste of Culture and a musical performance by Formidable Vegetable in the evening.

Graham George led the Food Forest Planting and said they had a strong group of about 18 attendees.

“Spring was very cold and wet and a lot of stuff didn’t survive, then the summer hit and got very dry so we were filling in some of the gaps today, we’ve intensively planted with some shrubs, blueberries, chives and local bush foods,” he said.

“It’s putting into practice what they learned from permaculture,but it’s also a chance for people to get together and swap

ideas and see how things are going, which they perhaps couldn’t do in their own backyard if they haven’t got the space.”

Ari led a Hot Composting workshop in the afternoon, delving into the science behind creating a hot compost and what manures create the best balance of carbon and nitrogen.

Executive Officer at Yarra Valley ECOSS Chelsea McNab said they had wanted to move further into food security for some time.

“It just feels timely that there’s been community groups that have come together recently here and sparked the energy for this, and in that way, it’s been the community leading the way for this,” she said.

“We’ve always wanted to build a site here that is an education trail, in where everywhere you go you can learn something new

and keep on building on that.”

TheValley Market began at 3.30 with plenty of fresh produce and homemade products available for keen shoppers to pick from.

At 5pm, kids had the chance to get involved in a new cultural food experience, a monthly initiative at ECOSS.This month they worked with cultured foods such as kimchi and sauerkraut, exposing kids to different ways of cooking and preparing Formidable Vegetable were the exciting entertainment, having featured prominently in festivals around Australia and the world, even performing at events alongside megastar musicians such as Radiohead, Tame Impala and The Rolling Stones.

Formidable Vegetable consists of Charlie Mgee on uke and vocals, Mal Webb on slide trumpet and trombone, Kylie Morrigan on violin and Winx on ‘beets’.

Graham George with a newly-planted pomegranate plant. Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

The Upper Yarra is one of the most at-risk fire areas in the country. Picture: ON FILE

Locals help craft plenty of new homes for possums

By Callum Ludwig

Wildlife across the Upper Yarra have found a safe haven at the Waratah Wildlife Shelter and the community has chipped in to help the shelter’s efforts. After an appeal to crafty locals to make some possum boxes on Wednesday 12 April, within a day Raewyn Jeganathan had all the supply she needed.

Ms Jeganathan said the support has been amazing.

“It’s really nice to know that there’s sup-

port in the community and that people do want to help and appreciate what we’re doing, it’s really humbling and affirming of all the hard work that we do,” she said.

“Being a wild animal, the boxes are a massive help for them with a shortage of good tree hollows. Lots of big mature trees have come down over the past few years with the storms we’ve had and the extra water in the ground.”

Over the Easter period, local business Jay Berries also raised $534 for the shelter

through a raffle to go towards animal rescue and care.

Ms Jeganathan said they want to make sure animals have adequate shelter while they transition back to the wild.

“It becomes their little home so when we release them back out into the wild, we put their box up in a tree and it gives them a bit of a home base and some security, there’s always a pretty steady stream of rescue calls in a local area and orphaned animals that need to come into care,” she said.

“I think our wildlife is the responsibility of all of us in the community, a lot of people say to me ‘I wish I could do what you do, but I don’t have time’ but you don’t have to give up your whole life to a wildlife shelter, just a couple of hours makes a difference.”

WaratahWildlife Shelter is currently based on Gembrook Road in Launching Place but is hoping soon to relocate to Big Pats Creek with a greater capacity to take in and care for local wildlife and for volunteers to get involved.

Weighing up tree options

By Callum Ludwig

The Warburton Tree saga has continued with Yarra Ranges Council releasing a report from another arborist, Ironbark Environmental Arboriculture (IEA), with alternative plans in the works.

The new report still classifies the risk the tree poses in its current state as high but options to retain the lower trunk as a habitat tree are gaining traction.

IEA used the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) method which found the tree as high-risk and identified two hollows within the tree that animals could use or be using.

In the report, numerous suggestions are made. Here is a brief summary:

Height reduction from 34.5m to 10m, removing most of the canopy and retaining the hollows in the trunk, reducing the likelihood of failure from probable to possible.

Creating an indigenous garden bed suitable to conditions in the Central Highlands in a 10m radius around the tree, reducing risk to pedestrians and parked cars.

Create additional hollows for wildlife using a Hollow-hog, a specialised hollow-boring tool.

Coronet cut the stubs of the cut trunks to mimic natural brakes, and potentially make slits suitable for microbat species.

Perform ongoing management of the regrowth shoots, including an annual visual and risk assessment of the regrowth shoots and the crack between the two tree trunks.

With a website, Facebook page and a change.org petition, the Save the Warburton Tree movement remains strong and they have engaged arborists of their own to provide their input.

Arboricultural and Environmental Consultant at Korong Consulting Peter Goegan has previously been an arborist for a council and said this is a repeated issue he has seen for many years, but that removal should always be a last resort, not the first option.

“It’s an old tree, over one hundred years old.

It’s like any living organism when it’s young and vigorous, it can cope better with injuries but I think that amount of injury to that tree would kill it. If you remove 70 per cent of the canopy, it would cease to be a tree,” he said.

“As a rule of thumb, I tend to say never more than 40 per cent of the canopy should be removed. It starts throwing out new shoots, which is called epicormic growth and they are not structural or load-bearing branches, they’re naturally a survival mechanism and an inherent danger.”

At its current 34.5m, a complete structural failure of the tree could see it fall across almost the entire Ottrey Car Park, across the Warburton Highway and even into the western wall of True Value Hardware.

Two cables are currently in place in the tree at 16.6m and 8.6m and Mr Goegan said more could be used to retain the tree.

“Some cabled trees have been cabled for 60 or 70 years, and they’ve stood up quite well especially older, significant trees, some have as many as 20 or so cables,” he said.

“It just needs to be checked every two to three years to make sure the cables are still holding up and also to compensate for any growth patterns. Trees are dynamic entities, they’re not static.”

In the IEA recommendations, a zoologist will be required to examine for fauna before reduction and an arborist would be in attendance to minimise root damage in the removal of the car park for the garden bed. If the garden bed is not feasible, the tree risk would be unable to be reduced to low.

Mr Goegan said the proposed garden bed with grasses and ground covers would be perfect.

“A 10m radius is substantial, eucalypt branches tend to fall straight down so if you take away the impact zone, it’s highly unlikely that anyone gets injured or any property will get damaged,” he said.

“You have to be careful what you plant however, if you start putting shrubs like acacias and melaleucas and grammarians in there, they can be very aggressive and draw a lot of the nutrients and moisture which in the past, the tree hasn’t had to compete for.”

The IEA report suggested quick-growing Silver Wattles (a form of acacia) to form an understory and shade the tree hollows and prickly shrubs such as Hedge-wattle and Sweet Bursaria to discourage people from standing directly under the tree and create a habitat for small songbirds.

In a statement on Tuesday 11 April, Council stated Council that it will not conduct works beyond critical safety works until all aspects of this matter are properly considered.

“The Yarra Ranges is renowned for its beautiful, treed landscape, with many species boasting lifespans of hundreds of years. Decisions to undertake significant works on such trees is never easy,” it reads.

“It is important to note that Council does not commission independent arborist reports with a predetermined outcome in mind. If anything, we are always hopeful that options can be found to save a tree.”

A peeking possum.

A possum at Waratah Wildlife Shelter perched atop a possum box.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Arborists have been putting forward alternative options to the removal of the Warburton Tree.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

For Aaron Maffei, the director of Barefoot Marine, providing a high-quality and reliable service is not just a job, it’s a passion. With over five years of experience as a mobile mechanic, Aaron is now bringing his expertise to the Eastern suburbs and Lake Eildon areas of Victoria.

What sets Barefoot Marine apart from other marine repair services is their fully mobile workshop. Rather than requiring customers to take their boats to a repair shop during work hours, Barefoot Marine brings the workshop to the client’s home. This approach saves customers time and hassle, and allows for faster and more efficient repairs.

In addition to general boat mechanical and electrical repairs, Barefoot Marine also offers repairs for mobile houseboats, generators, personal watercraft, and outboards. With their new mobile workshop stocked with tools and parts, Barefoot Marine is wellequipped to handle any repair job.

One of Aaron’s top priorities is to be a

good employer that looks after his staff. This commitment to creating a positive work environment translates into highquality work and excellent customer service.

Recently, Barefoot Marine received a new mobile workshop, which customers are likely to see throughout the Yarra Valley. To celebrate the new addition, Barefoot Marine is offering a local’s discount in Healesville and within a 15-minute drive. To take advantage of this offer, simply call and ask!

Barefoot Marine is dedicated to providing good, honest work has earned them a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy marine repair service.

If you’re looking for a high-quality and convenient marine repair service, look no further than Barefoot Marine. Contact them at Barefootmarine365@ gmail.com or by phone at 0407 076 830 to schedule an appointment. Trading hours are from 7:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday and 8:00am to 1:00pm on Saturdays.

Sharing their war stories

By Anthony McAleer

Fifty years after they served Australia in the Vietnam War, sixteen veterans of that conflict who live in the Yarra Valley sat down with the Mt Evelyn RSL’s historian and revealed, some for the first time, their experiences before, during and after the war.

Their stories tell of our nation’s involvement in Vietnam and spans the period 1964 to 1972. They served with the Navy, with the Regular Army and as National Servicemen. Their backgrounds varied as much as their experiences ‘in country’ during that time.

Their story is one of sacrifice and endurance, bravery and loss, good times and bad times. It reveals the environment they were forced to exist in and the role they had to play, as well as the moments that range from the mundane to the terrifying.

Surviving all of this, they returned home to a nation where many people ignored or even condemned them. For most, those decades after the war were an ongoing battle to deal with the physical and mental scars.

If ever you wanted to know what the Vietnam war was like for an Australian servicemen – these men will tell you through the pages of the Mt Evelyn RSL book ‘Yarra Valley Vietnam Veterans’. Available from the Mt Evelyn RSL Sub-branch.

One of the most extraordinary stories to come out of the First World War was an incident that happened to a Lilydale soldier while serving in Europe.

Robert Shell had grown up in Lilydale and had attended the Lilydale State School for his education. In late 1915, aged just eighteen years old, he left his job as a horse driver and enlisted in the AIF. From mid-1916 he served with the 21st Infantry Battalion on the Western Front

LETTERS

Letter to the Editor

Have you heard about the community consultation regarding the “Light-Up Nature into Art Project: LUNA”?

Well, I just opened a plain white envelope

To the Householder to find out.

Our house is close to the Maroondah Reservoir Park, where they are proposing sound and light installations and projections- probably on the Dam Wall, on trees and maybe a field of lights.

The letter reads Yarra Ranges Tourism wants to enhance existing daytime only sites and celebrate the unique natural, cultural and social environment of the region.

When you look up the web page https:// www.visityarravalley.com.au/yarrarangestourism/about-1/light-up it is not a one off event and there is mention of 750 people.

I have lived in Healesville for over 40 years and when I travel around the country and tell people where I come from they always com-

where he was hospitalised a number of times.

Towards the end of the war he was resting one day in a reserve area when a group of German prisoners of war were marched past under guard. Suddenly from amidst the prisoners he heard in an Australian accent said: ‘G’day Bob’. He looked around to discover that amongst the prisoners was a friend he’d gone to school with at the Lilydale State School – in a German uniform.

Chatting with him, he told Robert that being of German descent, he had gone back to Germany with his family just before the war started and ended up being trapped there and was eventually conscripted into the Germany Army. Robert then spoke to his Sergeant and explained that this prisoner was actually from Australia and would make a good interpreter for the AIF. But the Sergeant told him that as he was a German prisoner of war – ‘that was that’.

After the war Robert returned to Lilydale and around 1920 he was walking down the Main Street when suddenly he saw coming towards him the same school friend he last saw in a German uniform. Recognising him, he said to Robert ‘G’day Bob, glad to see we both made it back’. Sadly though, that was the last time they saw each other.

It is amazing to think that two soldiers from this area happen to meet on the Western Front, when there were so many thousands of soldiers stationed there during that period. But what makes this more phenomenal is that even though they were both from Lilydale, they happened to be serving on opposing sides – one with the Australian Army, the other with the German Army.

From the Mt Evelyn RSL’s publication –‘Home Front – The Impact of the First World War on the Shire of Lillydale’. Available from the RSL via ebay.

ment on what a beautiful part of the world we live in.

Does anyone who lives here agree with the statement that light and sound pollution could possibly be“sympathetic with their unique environments...”?

Once you drive out of town past the hospital and on towards the Black Spur and Yarra Ranges National Park there are no street lights.

The night sky is dark, we see the stars, the milky way and the moon rise over the reservoir turning the water silver.

I loved “White Night” and the bright lights, but they belong in the city not polluting our peaceful bush, disturbing our animals, birds and local ratepayers.

I suggest the Tarrawarra Museum of Art or one of the wineries would be more appropriate if this is deemed necessary in our area.

Historically tourists have visited Healesville to enjoy our natural green environment.

Linda Hay, Healesville

Soldiers from the Yarra Valley who fought in the Vietnam War tell their stories, some for the first time, in a book by Anthony McAleer. Picture: UNSPLASH

DAY

It’s time to pay respect

Anzac Day is coming up and there are a number of gatherings throughout the region for residents to attend a dawn or morning service and pay their respects.

The Rotary Club of Wandin is providing a more sleep-friendly service at the Wandin Cenotaph on the corner of Beenak Road and Hunter Road at 8.30am.

The SevilleWar Memorial hosted its very first Anzac Day dawn service in 2022 and is set to do so again this year, this time with newly installed lighting.

The service will begin at 5.45am, with a free community breakfast after the service sponsored by the Community Bank of Wandin-Seville.

Millgrove will be holding its regular Dawn Service at 6am sharp at the memorial rock outside of the Wesburn/Millgrove CFA, followed by a breakfast which everyone is also welcome to.

TheWarburton RSL sub-branch will be holding their annual march and service. Assembly is at the Warburton Bakery at 9.20am with the march commencing at 10.05am. By about 10.20am everyone will have arrived at the cenotaph for the service.

MC of the event will President Lindsay Fisher, with speakers to be an Warburton RSL member Peter Dalglish and Amarli Weir who will speak about Nurse Viviian Bullwinkle. Ray McDonald will lead a prayer. A Catafalque Party - a bugler, piper and donkey have also been organised

Food will be provided either at the park or at the Warburton RSL, dependent on the weather.

Woods Point RSL will be hosting their memorial service at the RSL on 14 Scott Street, Woods Point from 6 am, breakfast and refreshments will be available.

The Healesville RSLwill have a 5.45 am Dawn Service followed by Gunfire Breakfast

There will be a 10 am March along Church Street to Memo Hall for service followed by refreshments at RSL.

Yarra Glen RSL will host a parade alongYarra Glen Police Station and continue to the Cenotaph in the McKenzie Reserve on ANZAC Av-

enue, the parade will start at 10:15 am.

Featured speakers are students from the Yarra Glen, Yering and Christmas Hills Primary Schools and the Yarra Glen Primary School Choir will perform musical tributes during the service.

Members of the public who wish to place a wreath or flowers to commemorate the sacrifices of deceased veterans are welcome to participate, and they should contact the Secretary, Ed Bartosh, in advance of the day to make arrangements.

The new lighting will be in use for Anzac Day at the Seville War Memorial this year.

Picture: ON FILE

An outdoors adventure

By Callum Ludwig

A new NDIS support work service based in the Yarra Ranges is sharing a passion for outdoor recreation in its care.

One of VentureToogether’s exciting opportunities is for a school holiday program on Thursday 20 April for an animal encounter.

Owner of VentureTogether Josh Chesterman said he wanted to provide programs for those who might not be able to get out and do these activities without the care and support of a service provider that understands their needs.

“I spent the last 15 years running school programmes and camps at a busy campsite in Mount Evelyn and I’ve decided to branch out on my own, providing support to disability and mental health participants on the NDIS program,” he said.

“Our dream and one of the reasons we’re doing the school holiday program is to fund the growth of a team of staff who can eventually help me to put together eco therapy and wilderness adventure therapy programmes.”

Children in the NDIS program from Grade 4 and up are welcome to join the VentureTogether team at the Wild about Wellbeing Farm in Wandin at 10am on Thursday 20 April to start the day of fun.

Mr Chesterman said they have made some great connections with Wild About Wellbeing.

“The farm has got chickens, goats, donkeys and a whole range of animals we’re going to go see as well as playing some games to get to know each other, and from there we’ll be doing a tractor ride around the farm taking stops to see the different animals, to feed the ducks and to learn a little bit about sustainable and organic farming,” he said.

“The crew out at Wild about Wellbeing as the name suggests, they’re very passionate about their sustainable and organic farming methods and it’s just an opportunity as well to connect kids with what ends up on their plate and with nature.”

Pony rides and a chef-made lunch will follow before an up close and optionally handson reptile experience with zoology expert Talia Van Bockel.

Mr Chestermann said in the disability sector, there haven’t previously been a lot of outdoor wellbeing and support programs in the Yarra Valley.

“Studies have shown that outdoor adventure therapy has strong therapeutic benefits on both mental and physical wellbeing, it’s just the intrinsic nature of being out enjoying the bush,” he said.

“For some people, the healthiest place is with a friend at home, but there are definitely

a large number of participants for whom getting safe and well-supported access to the outdoors, to community unity and to social groups gives them the freedom, the independence, the choice, the control and opportunity that wouldn’t always be available otherwise.”

The school holiday program will be fully staffed by qualified NDIS support staff but attendees are welcome to bring their own support worker or carer if they would like to have a familiar face with them.

To book a place, Mr Chestermann can be contacted at josh@venturetogether.com.au or 0433 061 206.

Online support network helps get around landslip

By Callum Ludwig

Confirmation that the 683 bus service will not be able to make its way all the way to Warburton during the highway closure has caused concerns for residents who rely on it, but luckily the community is stepping up to help each other out.

A Warburton Community Support Network has been started by resident Rachael Tsoumbakos with a Facebook page to go with it, offering a place residents can turn to get answers to questions about the Warburton Highway closure or ask to carpool.

Ms Tsoumbakos said she is also a bus user and knows of the people on the bus line who use it all the time.

“It’s important that they can continue to do that if they need to get out to shop, if they need to go to a doctor’s appointment, even if they just need to get out, for sanity’s sake, they need to be able to do that,” she said.

“Hopefully we can get people who are travelling in and out to give them some help to achieve what they need to achieve.”

The Warburton Highway will be closed to all traffic between 26 April and 10 May at the site of the landslip, with regular traffic being diverted onto Old Warburton Road during this time, which is not suitable for larger vehicles.

Ms Tsoumbakos said it’s good that everyone has jumped on board to support really quickly.

“I’ve noticed a lot of people are jumping in to offer help, and not so many people com-

plaining about who should have fixed this or how things should have been approached,” she said.

“It’s just vitally important to make sure people’s lives aren’t disrupted and that they

can access help if they need it.”

For those who aren’t on Facebook or have trouble navigating the internet, the physical noticeboard at the ADRA Redwood Centre will also be open for residents to find information or let people know they may need a lift.

Manager of the ADRA Redwood Centre Kate Barratt said residents need to try to stay positive and constructive during this time because they can’t change the situation.

“I really love the idea of the support group, and I’d encourage people to join the Facebook group, hopefully, this noticeboard and the Facebook group can flow on for a variety of different reasons, this is just a good opportunity to get it up and running,” she said.

“Also if people have other concerns about things like appointments with doctors or specialists or Allied Health, we have spoken to many of their services and they’re really happy to work out other arrangements, such as telehealth or even video calls, and we can help facilitate that.”

Anyone interested in joining the Facebook group can find it by searching ‘Warburton Community Support Network.’ If you need to organise for carpooling, make a post on the page with where you need helping getting to and when and keep an eye out for responses from group members.

The Warburton Highway landslip.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Reptile and insect expert Talia Van Bockel.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Reconnecting parents to education

The idea of returning to work or education after having a child can be both exciting and daunting at the same time.

Mountain District Learning Centre is proud to provide a targeted response to this via it’s ‘Reconnect’ program. The program assists participants to overcome the barriers preventing them from engaging in education, training and employment and provides support into further study or employment pathways.

Raising a child takes a village as they say, it also takes a village to return to work or education. On staff are two local mums, Racheal and Emma who are available for a child friendly catch up to discuss what goals you have and how they can best support you in reaching them.

At no cost to you, available supports can include;

Access to education, with both pre accredited and accredited options.

Access to funded weekly playgroup where you can spend time with your little ones and meet like minded parents.

Access to employment support including resume building and interview techniques.

Access to career planning and pathway op-

tions.

A friendly chat with local mum and MDLC staff member Racheal Edwards will assist in determining your eligibility and access to whichever types of support you might find most suitable to your individual circumstances. Racheal can be contacted on 0401 490 873 or email racheale@mdlc.org.au

Reconnect Manager Racheal Edwards and Reconnect Case Manager Emma Jenkins are ready to help parents get back into learning. Picture: SUPPLIED

Term 2 Program

Wingspread is revealed

By Tanya Steele

Open Gardens Victoria will open Wingspread private country garden to the public on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 April.

The garden is located on the lands of the Taungurung people, in Toolangi and began as a country retreat for owners Keith Hughson and Andrew Neilson when they purchased the property 14 years ago.

It sits 460 metres above sea level on top of the Great Dividing Range and takes its name from American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, spanning over two hectares of land.

The new house which was built in 2010 and was featured in Grand Designs Australia magazine. Keith said they purchased the property a week after Black Saturday and only the original cottage stood on it at the time.

They began by building a new house and then began working on the surroundings.

The garden was designed to take advantage of the expansive views as well as the peaks of Mount Tanglefoot and Mount St Leonard.

“As we’ve progressed we’ve learnt along the way,” Keith said.

“We’ve had a lot of assistance from our gardener Tony, who has a background in horticulture and although he’ll tell you it was all us, ultimately we are a team.”

The garden has been opened in spring before, but this year’s opening will take full advan-

tage of the garden’s collection of maple trees.

“The Senkaki maples were suggested to us by our neighbour for their year-round interest and colour—from the bright red bare branches in winter, through the lime green of spring, darkening over the summer before exploding into the most amazing orange in autumn,” Keith said.

“Over the last few years, we have expanded the gardens beyond the tennis court, with an array of rhododendrons and magnolias and a couple of garden beds of azaleas, smoke bushes, and escallonias,” he said.

The property has a few things left to do, with work expected to finish by the end of the year, with final progress nearing completion in the lower sections. The opening event will support Yarra Valley charity Mange Management and local businesses will provide a coffee van and wines for the public to enjoy while they view the property.

The open weekend will also feature artists live painting in real time amongst the trees.

The owners have attended many Open Gardens Victoria themselves over the years and are proud to have a garden that people want to pay to see.

“We always hoped one day we would be able to do that,” Keith said.

The couple is excited to share the property with the public through Open Gardens Victoria and hopes people will enjoy it.

Dazzling Colours.

The garden has some spectacular autumn show for people to enjoy when they visit.

The garden has been carefully created over a number of years.

Expansive views.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

The property and gardens have been rebuilt by the owners with great care.

Enriched education

Set in the heart of Healesville, St Brigid’s Primary School is a warm and welcoming community, enriched by the values of the Catholic faith.

Their school provides a contemporary and comprehensive curriculum which immerses students in learning about themselves, others and the world around them.

Learning at St Brigid’s is student-centred and personalised, embracing the diversity of each individual student.

Student wellbeing is seen as a core component to their curriculum with developing students’ personal and interpersonal skills, a primary focus. Literacy and numeracy are central to our curriculum and equip students with lifelong skills, as well as fostering a love of learning.

At St Brigid’s, its Catholic faith permeates

all that they do as they celebrate faith through daily prayer and inclusive learning activities.

St Brigid’s students are immersed in a rich specialised program of The Arts (Music, Performing Arts and Music), Physical Education, STEM and Indonesian. The Leading Languages Program encourages the Indonesian vocabulary throughout all facets of school life, not just in the Indonesian classroom.

St Brigid’s prides itself on its values and encourages students, staff and families to support each other as members of the school community.

Enrolments are open for 2024 and are processed according to submission date. Limited places are also available in Prep - Year 4 for 2023, please call the school office on (03) 5962 4200 to book a tour

We are a Christ centred community: Learning from the past, Challenging the present, Creating the future.

Students enjoy a contemporary and comprehensive curriculum at St Brigid’s Primary School.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Set in the heart of Healesville, St Brigid’s is a warm and welcoming community.

Student wellbeing is seen as a core component to St Brigid’s curriculum.

Animal Aid cat surprise

By Tanya Steele

Animal Aid in Coldstream has managed a huge feat over the Easter long weekend and found new families for a huge number of kittens, young cats and even a few guinea pigs who needed homes.

Communications and Engagement Manager, Elle Ammann said it was an amazing result.

“Final adoption numbers for the drive came to 106 animals,” she said.

57 kittens, 47 cats and two, guinea pigs found new homes, which meant the facility could make way for more animals.

“We were struggling because, without the free space at the shelter, it meant our foster carers were at capacity,” Ms Ammann said.

The shelter was at breaking point, with more cats coming in than the facility was able to adopt out.

Appeals were made to local clients and the community via email and social media.

Previous clients who had adopted with the facility before and residents in the region were encouraged to adopt a furry friend over a period of ten days, with usual fees waived.

This positive outcome means the facility will also be able to further assist its regional centres.

March and April tend to be tougher for the adoption facilities with the peak of kitten season but this year was particularly troublesome.

“We think financial pressures coupled with the fact that there was such a big adoption uptake over the last few years meant that anyone who was looking to adopt has done so already,” Ms Ammann said.

“Definitely the whole of Victoria is really struggling to rehome animals.”

Heading forward, the shelter intends to keep up the good work.

“We’re going to be working really hard to make sure that our community chooses us to adopt every day, we have so many beautiful animals looking for a home,” Ms Ammann said.

First Eastern Band orchid for reserve pops up

By Tanya Steele

The Eastern Band orchid was spotted for the first time at the Juliet Avenue Bushland Reserve last week just in time for Easter.

Mount Toolebewong and District Landcare group treasurer volunteer Karen Garth recorded the flower in the group’s logs.

“It’s not an uncommon orchid, but it hasn’t been recorded by us at that reserve before,” she said.

The Juliet Avenue Bushland has been monitored by environmental groups since 2015 to observe the native plant species that flower there, but they have not recorded the orchid until this year.

Usually named Parson’s Band the orchid has more recently been known as the Eastern Band orchid or Eriochilus cucullatus and Ms Garth took the opportunity for some fun.

“I just thought I’d use a play on words and put a post out on Easter Sunday,” she said.

The orchid photo and the caption “Happy Eastern Bunny Orchid Day!” were posted to social media on Sunday 9 April.

Landcare groups monitor a number of sites to log different species of native plants and how they are growing in the area.

“We walk once a month and just record when we see things flowering,” she said.

Ms Garth credits theYarra Ranges Council with the upkeep of the bushland and encourages people to wander along the small natural pathways and see what the bushland has to offer.

“It’s not just boring grassland with a couple of trees, there is more there,” she said.

The find was shared amongst orchid enthusiasts, including Wendy Probert who is one of the directors of the Australian Orchid Foundation.

“I think it’s positive to have a com prehensive record of the species when they

emerge,” she said.

Ms Probert has worked and explored the Yarra Valley area for her whole life and remembers finding orchids at the old station yards in Ferntree Gully.

She is pleased the Eriochilus cucullatus has been logged in the area by the landcare group.

“Because orchids have such precise and

complex requirements for fungi, pollinators, and the pollinators’ food plants, they are good indicator species,” she said.

“it is important to keep records of species over time, as that is a way of judging the health of the habitat and how it may be changing in response to climate or management activities.”

Whilst spring flowers get a lot of hype, you

Picture: WENDY PROBERT

can find orchids anytime throughout the year, but they can be hard to spot.

This particular orchid is significant to several sites within the Yarra Ranges and people are encouraged to look and take pictures but to never pick native orchids.

“All year around there will be orchids flowering somewhere in the region,” Ms Garth said.

Orchids are quite tiny and you have to look carefully to spot them.

Amazing result with many animals finding new families.

Picture: ANIMAL AID

Peace and harmony at YVLC

The Yarra Valley Living Centre will be hosting an open day event called Peace in the Valley on 30 April, and it promises to be a day filled with talks, stalls, forest activities, live music, meditation, and delicious vegan food.

The event aims to promote peace and mindfulness, and to raise awareness about the importance of living a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. There will be a variety of talks and workshops throughout the day, covering topics such as meditation, yoga, sustainable living, and mindfulness. It will close with a Peace Concert.

In addition to the talks and workshops, there will also be a number of stalls showcasing local businesses and organisations that promote sustainability and healthy living.

Visitors will be entertained with eco-activities for the kids, forest therapy with local expert Catherine Marty, Yogic Farming and Wayappa with Tamasin Ramsay, meditation sessions, drumming circles and more.

Live music will also be a highlight of the day, with local musicians closing the day with a special Peace Concert on the lawn from 2-4pm

featuring an amazing surprise guest jazz artist.

The food on offer will include a range of vegan options, from delicious salads to hot dishes, coffees and cakes. Find a Penny will cater and donate 100 per cent of all their proceeds to Victorian people living without homes.

Doctors for Nutrition will be there to share from their deep and vast research on what is now called Lifestyle Medicine - including revelations on how serious illnesses can be turned around through nutrition.

Andthisyearwewillhavethepresenceofthe wonderful founder of this centre, Dr Ian Gawler. Ian, a great friend, will kick off at 10.30am our educational and inspirational talks series.

The Yarra Valley Living Centre is a beautiful and peaceful retreat centre located on 40 acres of environmental experiences.The centre offers a range of programs and workshops focused on health, healing, wellbeing, and spirituality for life. The centre’s mission is to help people live happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives, becoming agents of inspiration in their everyday world.

Meet and buy from local makers and sellers.

Pictures: YARRA VALLEY LIVING CENTRE

Dr Ian Gawler will kick off a series of educational talks.

Peace in the Valley is a day of forest activities, live music, meditation and food stalls to be enjoyed by all.

Artist’s NGV privilege

By Mikayla van Loon

For Healesville’s Craig Murphy-Wandin, having an artwork exhibited in an NGV collective project is somewhat unbelievable.

The Wurundjeri Woiwurrung artist’s work ‘Man in dreaming 2022’ is currently on display at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV as part of Melbourne Now, an exhibition showcasing the work of over 200 Victorian based artists, designers, studios and firms.

A first for Murphy-Wandin, he said “it’s a privilege” to have an artwork featured in an NGV exhibition.

“It’s just an amazing feeling. I still can’t believe that I have pieces in there,” MurphyWandin said.

As part of the ‘Vessels’ project, MurphyWandin has drawn on his ancestral woodworking techniques to carve a fallen tree burl, a practice he began around seven years ago.

Merging his contemporary wood carving skills with traditional Aboriginal practices, Murphy-Wandin speeds up the process by using a chainsaw to extract a burl and then slows it down by coating it in layers of gum sap.

“In Healesville we’ve got all our beautiful, big rivers and I just walk along there occasionally and if I see a tree down with a burl on it, I’d go back and carve it off,” he said.

“The carving is really fast because it is a contemporary way. If I tried to do it the old fashioned way, traditionally with a green stone axe it would take forever because it’s hardwood, I’d be there a year, maybe.”

Once a burl has been carved, MurphyWandin will soak the burl in water to prevent air splitting the wood, then comes the staining process, where he returns to the bush to find sap.

While sometimes a difficult part of the process, Murphy-Wandin said it can be “a meditation to me”, by being in the bush looking for

both the burls and sap.

Only starting to use gum sap two years ago, learning the technique as he went, MurphyWandin said he had faith in knowing it would work.

“It’s all self taught and trial and error really to use the gum sap and I knew it would work and it did,” he said.

With variations in sap colour, sometimes being red, orange, yellow or black, MurphyWandin said it can take up to eight weeks for a burl to start showing the colour.

“The staining is the really important part and it’s a beautiful thing to do and usually my ancestors would have used the sap as a glue, for glueing everything together, so that’s the real traditional part.”

As a former carpenter and horticulturist, Murphy-Wandin said returning to work with wood was a suggestion from his mother Aunty

Joy Murphy-Wandin to help make message sticks and smoking ceremony bowls as gifts.

While some burls can be used for smoking bowls, Murphy-Wandin said each burl has its own story to tell, he just gives it the ability.

“Some burls have got the stories in them already like the one in NGV, it’s got a man in the grain that’s why I called it ‘Man in dreaming’. It all depends on the burl. It tells you what it’s here for.”

The grain of the wood comes from its age, with some burls collected by Murphy-Wandin being hundreds of years old.

“Some of these burls that I have are 500 to 600 years old. A really big manna gum that fell on the Watts River that I found, it’s quite amazing how old some of these burls are.

“You get the young ones too when a little tree falls down. They haven’t got the stories in them because they’re not as old and they haven’t

been around for 700 years, so the grain hasn’t fully developed.”

As the only wooden texture in the ‘Vessels’ exhibition, Murphy-Wandin said he hopes it tells a story of how Aboriginal people worked with the land.

“I would like people to learn how amazing nature is and how my people worked alongside nature, in perfect harmony every single day.

“For 65,000 plus years they respected nature and nature gave the respect back.”

Melbourne Now, includingVessels, launched at the NGV on 24 March and is open until 20 August. To find out more, go to www.ngv.vic.gov. au/melbourne-now/home/

“I’m very proud of my work. That piece is a very, very special piece for me and I’m glad I get it back after the gallery because I don’t want to sell it but I’m just very, very happy and very humbled to be in that exhibition.”

Dancing in step to the melody of love and life

By Mikayla van Loon

A depiction of married life and all its ups and downs, is about to grace a Mooroolbark stage when it heads to Melbourne as part of an Australian tour.

‘Wallflowering’, a play written by Peta Murray and directed by Denny Lawrence, showcases the story of Peg and Cliff, a couple trying to recreate what has been lost in their marriage.

The former champion ballroom dancing couple must find themselves as individuals before they can find each other once more.

Acclaimed actor Dennis Coard plays the role of Cliff and said having worked with the director and his co-star Jenny Seedsman before, it was a no brainer to come on board.

In between the moments of performing the perfect foxtrot, the play explores the nuances of “an ordinary, suburban, middle aged” married couple who reminisce about their younger days.

“As the years have gone on, they let the dancing slip but also their marriage doesn’t have the spark that it used to and they’re out of step with each other,” Coard said.

“That’s the metaphor of the dance in the play that as they got out of step on the dance floor, they’re also out of step with each other in their married life. So this play is about them trying to regain the spark and the dance and the love in their marriage.”

Taking on a realistic view of what marriage can be, Coard said at the time Murray was writing the play, women and society were fighting back against the roles previously enforced on men and women.

“She wrote it about 20 years ago now and it also encapsulates the roles we can fall into in a marriage, the division of roles,” he said.

“Back when she wrote it there was a real challenge to traditional roles being played by men or women. So there are a lot of books about women reclaiming their space in the world and in marriage.”

Coard said as Peg begins to step away from the “housewife” role she’d been thrust-

ed into, Cliff is taken by surprise and is not quite ready to change the dynamic of their relationship.

As a two person play, Coard said “it’s a big piece” but it is broken up with the visuals of young professional dancers portraying the days gone by of Peg and Cliff.

“The two dancers portray our past in a way. So there’s a big screen where, when we’re thinking about it or remembering it, there’s this lovely footage of the two professional dancers behind us.

“Then as that fades, it comes back to our story. It’s the dreams we had of being in that

world, and how we’d love to recapture that but we can’t go back in time, but we can go forward and be back in step together as we go into the future.”

Adding the screen behind the stage, Coard said, brings a beautiful element to the show and allows himself and Seedsman to have a costume change in between scenes.

Having been touring ‘Wallflowering’ right across the country, Coard said it has been well received by many but he’s excited to return to the Mooroolbark Community Centre stage.

“It’s a beautiful show and everyone will get

something out of it. They’ll recognise themselves in some way and there’s some beautiful old music from as time goes by and songs like that,” he said.

“We’re so glad that we’re coming to Mooroolbark because it’s a lovely venue and what we need more than anything is a beautiful audience to share it with us.”

‘Wallflowering’ will be appearing on Thursday 20 April at 2pm at the Mooroolbark Community Centre. To book, go to www. yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Experience/Events/ Wallflowering-by-Peta-Murray or call 1300 368 333.

Jenny Seedsman and Dennis Coard bring to life the characters of Peggy and Cliff in Wallflowering. Picture: JODIE HUTCHINSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Installation view of Craig Murphy-Wandin’s work ‘Man in dreaming 2022’ on display as part of the Melbourne Now exhibition at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, Melbourne from 24 March – 20 August 2023. Picture: TOM ROSS

Craig Murphy-Wandin was encouraged to get back into wood carving by his mother Aunty Joy Murphy-Wandin. Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

Close look does trick

By Tanya Steele

The Mind Drawing Children’s Stories exhibition by artist Jenni Ivins has left audiences with connection, community and conversation which the artist herself is delighted about.

The month long exhibition at The Memo encouraged patrons to immerse themselves and see what they could find.

Jenni’s “Mind Drawings” are designed to get people to look closer and longer and provoke conversations about what is found in the work.

“Mind drawings are all fine line drawings done with a point one drafting pin, and there are things hidden in the pictures,” Jenni said.

“I use my art to help people to see differently.”

The interactive exhibition had a literary theme and encouraged the public to find objects and stories hidden within the art.

Jenni also recently completed holiday workshops at the exhibition and said people really enjoyed the practice of looking at and discussing different points of view when engaging with her work.

Adults and children alike attended the workshops which involved experimenting with a number of different art mediums.

The adults were blindfolded and instructed to draw by the children, which led to giggles all around.

Natural materials and frottage (which is the process of taking a rubbing from an uneven surface) were also featured in the session.

Participants notice something different about her drawings every time and Jenni said a few people noticed her signature was JVW rather than JI.

“I use my maiden name for my art so it’s Jenni Van Wilder,” she said.

Bringing the message that anyone can make art is important to Jenni and she appreciates the chance to meet her audience.

“Art is really freeing for people and the process is as important as the outcome,” she said.

The final weekend of the exhibition was attended by patrons of Jenni’s Connecting Communities board game which was featured in Star Mail during Covid lockdowns and continues to have an active social media group online.

Jenni is always charmed by how much the community loves where they live.

“People feel strongly about the environment, the scenery and the animals, they really love it,” she said.

Needlocalstaff? Thengiveusthejob...

Manyenjoyedtheinteractiveaspectsofthe exhibition. Picture:SUPPLIED

YAVA puts out artists call

By Tanya Steele

YAVA is calling for artists to submit applications by 28 April for its Open Studio weekends program in Yarra Valley and Upper Yarra this October.

Reggie Clark from member and artist engagement at YAVA is excited about people applying and said both artists and visitors can get a lot out of the experience.

“People can go and visit them in their studios and see how they work, what inspires them, see how they do things,” she said.

Ms Clark said the experience is unique as it offers an immersive way for artists to display their process and the environment in which they create work.

“They can touch the tools, perhaps, smell the paint, it’s quite a special experience stepping into that really personal space,” she said.

“It’s really great for them to meet their fans and just talk to people.”

The Open Studios program is for both established and emerging artists and has run since 2017.

Some artists that have participated before will be there this year and include Denise Smith, a wildlife artist, Bev Hardidge a potter and painter, Graeme Hardidge who is a metal sculptor and potter Ted Secombe.

Artists do not need a traditional studio to apply, but rather a dedicated and accessible space which showcases how artists work in their homes.

“Some people use a spare bedroom, some use the front porch, they’re dedicated spaces about where you create,” said Ms Clark.

Artists that are accepted into the program

COMMUNITY

DIARY

COMMUNITY DIARY

WHAT’S ON AROUND THE VALLEY

EXPRESSION 4 exhibit

Yarra Ranges Photographic Society’s fourth major exhibition is coming to the Warburton Arts Centre.

It will be showcasing the imagination and talents of its members as they tell their stories through the camera lens - an idea, a feeling, an image formed with conscious thought.

The Society presents stimulating and diverse statements of contemporary photogra-

have the chance to showcase their work and make connections in the community, among a range of other benefits.

“They’ll be able to show what they do, they might get commissions out of it or they might

be able to book a workshop if they run workshops,” Ms Clark said.

The Open Studio weekends program will run over two weekends in the Yarra Valley on 21 and 22 October and Upper Yarra on the 4

and 5 November.

The Open Studio exhibition will be at the YAVA gallery from 12 October to 5 November.

Artists interested in submitting an application must do it online by 28 April at 5pm.

phy, traversing a broad range of subjects and visual constructs. Themes explored include portraiture, landscape, flora and fauna, monochrome, abstract, macro and creatively enhanced images.

The exhibition is on from Friday 12 May at 12pm until 4pm Sunday 20 August.

Last Hoorah Bazaar

The Last Hoorah Bazaar at the Warburton Community Space is back on Saturday 29 April, a trash and treasure market aiming to encourage attendees to give unwanted items a second life.

There will be second-hand clothes, plants and craft work from local crafters among many other potential bargains at the market from 11am to 3pm.

There also be a bake sale and sausage sizzle (with vegetarian options), with all funds going towards the operational costs of the Koha Community Cafe and Space.

A table can be booked by anyone wanting a space to sell for $10, contact Melanie Bouck at 0425 831 852 to book a table or for any other enquiries.

Community immunisations

Community members wishing to receive their flu vaccination for 2023 are encouraged to register for one of Yarra Ranges Council’s upcoming community immunisation sessions.

Sessions are available at Healesville, Yarra Junction, Lilydale and Upwey.

For vulnerable residents, such as children, older adults, and people with chronic diseases or a weakened immune system, the flu can have serious and devastating effects.

The flu virus is found in almost invisible droplets from saliva, sneezes, coughs and runny noses.

It can travel up to two metres, live on surfaces for up to 48 hours and is spread when people touch an infected surface.

To register, visit: www.yarraranges.vic. gov.au/Community/Family/Immunisation/ Book-an-immunisation-appointment/2023immunisation-sessions.

Casting Call in Badger Creek

A university production is looking for kids to

play students in their movie shooting at the Badger Creek Old School on 29 and 30 April.

Drop them an email if your child is interested in auditioning. atowncalledvalhallashortfilm@gmail.com

Flora and fungi surveys

Friends of the Helmeted Honeyeater hosting a flora and fungi survey Wednesday 19 April at the Yellingbo Nature Conservation Area

Do you wonder what plants, animals or fungi you’re seeing or hearing in when walking in the bush?

Join in, learn new skills or share your knowledge with like-minded people in a Friends of the Helmeted Honeyeater-hosted citizen science event.

Attendees will record the species theyobserve, but you don’t need to be able to identify species in order to participate.

All eyes and ears contribute and everyone is welcome.

More details and how to register here: https://www.helmetedhoneyeater.org.au/getinvolved/come-to-an-event-2/

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

WooriYallock Foodworks Woori Yellock 1/1585 Warburton Highway

WooriYallock Newsagency & Tattslotto Shop 4/ 1585 Warburton Highway

WooriYallock Hillcrest Little Store Great Food 1745 Warburton Highway

WooriYallock Shell Service Station Foodies 1700 Warburton Highway

WooriYallock 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

Denise Smith in her studio.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Budget needs fixes

The Albanese Labor Governments upcoming May budget is a chance for the government.

A chance to admit their mistakes, reinstate vital funding for local projects and amend their broken promises – with the Roads for Community road sealing funding high on our wish list.

My office has been inundated with calls, emails and letters from concerned residents living on dirt roads across our community, and I share those concerns.

I know how badly we want to end the days of dust, potholes and mud. That’s why the former Liberal government committed $150 million to seal our roads – only for Labor to scrap that funding when they got into government.

Our commitment to sealing roads was once in a lifetime, and without that funding, road sealing is projected to take another 80-100 years. I’ve been fighting hard on this, having called on the government to reinstate the funding at every opportunity in Canberra.

The road sealing funding was axed by Labor as part of almost $1 billion in infrastructure cuts – which included scrapping the funding for the notoriously dangerous Wellington Road.

From my desk

Federal Member for Casey

This budget will be a test on how much Labor has listened to our community – not just on our local road upgrades, but also on struggling Australian families and businesses.

Many are feeling the pinch from the rising cost of living. Inflationary spending in the budget will only make things harder.

Labor must deliver a responsible budget that addresses rising costs and does not add to the pain families are currently feeling at the checkout and in their energy bills.

But families and business owners aren’t the only ones doing it tough. So are our young people.

The loss of the Lilydale Youth Hub is being

felt right across our community. I’m a strong advocate for youth mental health, which is why I committed $3.5 million during the election campaign to keep the Youth Hub open.

With Labor forming government, they refused to match this commitment, forcing the hub to close its doors.

I’ve continued to advocate for funding for the Lilydale Youth Hub. Labor has a chance in this budget to reinstate this vital service that is so important for youth mental wellbeing and belonging.

May will also be a test for state Labor as the Andrews Labor Government hands down the Victorian budget.

Killara Road in Coldstream remains a dangerous and congested intersection despite the former federal Liberal government handing state Labor $20 million for upgrades almost four years ago.

It’s time they get on with the job.

Both Labor’s state and federal budgets must reinstate funding to local infrastructure projects and deliver real outcomes for our community.

What’s on in theatres near you Kemp’s curtain call

BurrinjaTheatre

The Fish that wanted to Fly. – Little Wing Puppets

Did you ever dream of doing something that seemed impossible? A little fish’s lagoon is drying up. All the other fish have left for the ocean, and she wants to learn how to fly so she can see them again. But can she make it?

Her friend, a hermit crab named Karramoko, sits by a stormwater drain and tells her it will never happen. She meets a kingfisher who helps her and encourages her to keep trying. It’s not until she meets a cormorant who offers to take her up into the sky that she flies for the first time. But will she make it back okay?

The tale is set in a mangrove swamp and is about friendship, resilience and sustainability.

Season: Thursday 20 April at 10.30 am.

The Puppetry of PaperWorkshop

This fun workshop is based on Bunraku, a Japanese form of puppetry. In this workshop. Participants will learn to make a puppet out of paper and the skill of bringing it to life as a team.

Season: Thursday 29 April at 11.30 am.

Theatre reminders for upcoming shows:

Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre

Barefoot in the Park

Season: April 20 – May 8

Bookings: 9735 1777 Office hours Monday, Tuesday & Friday 10am – 2om.

The BasinTheatre

Same Time Next Year

Season: Thursday April 20 – 30.

Bookings: 1300 784 668

Eltham LittleTheatre

Much Ado About Nothing

Season: April 21 – May 6.

Bookings: 0411 713 985

Blocks fall into place for a great time at the movies

nal Tetris theme.

Tetris

Starring Taron Egerton, Nikita Yefremov and Toby Jones

Rated M 4/5

Tetris is a fun, clever historical thriller based on the true story of Henk Rogers (Taron Egerton), an American video game designer and salesman who travels to Moscow in 1988 to license Tetris for Nintendo.

Tetris has an Aaron Sorkin-style quick wit to the dialogue, the visuals often pay tribute to retro video game aesthetics and flourishes in Lorne Balfe’s score draw from the iconic origi-

While the intrigue over who owns the rights to Tetris is a little hard to follow, the film is fastpaced and draws strong suspense from Rogers’ perseverance, an atmosphere of conniving and surveillance on both sides of the Iron Curtain, and Igor Grabuzov as a slimy KGB agent villain. Egerton is an engaging lead as Rogers: a reckless salesman with a warm, honest nature, and it’s gratifying to watch him struggle against greed and suspicion to share Tetris with the world. The film has a large Russian cast, with Nikita Yefremov playing Alexei Pajitnov, the inventor of Tetris, and the plot draws parallels between business deals with the Soviet Union (in other words, the arrival of capitalism) and the Union’s eventual fall without feeling heavyhanded. There is also a compelling current of the main characters stretching the rules, both communist and corporate. If you want a more grounded, dramatic video game-related movie after the kaleidoscopic, kid-friendly Super Mario Bros Movie, Tetris will not disappoint.

A suspenseful thriller with fun energy and surprising depth about one of the most famous video games in history, Tetris is streaming exclusively on Apple TV Plus.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Yarra Valley photographer Tracy Dasler captured this beautiful autumn sunrise in Yarra Glen in early April.

Picture: TRACY DASLER

PUZZLES

No. 129

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Drafted Russian cavalry soldier (7)

5 Windfall (7)

9 Inherited from one’s family (9)

10 Exactitude (5)

11 Pick (6)

12 Going in (8)

14 Greek oracle (6)

15 Nasty (4)

19 Paradise (4)

20 Type of brandy (6)

24 Relating to cultivated land (8)

25 Maximum (6)

27 River flowing from Tibet to the Arabian Sea (5)

28 Incapable of being seen (9)

29 Vote in again (2-5)

30 Gnawing animals (7)

DOWN

1 Opportunity (6)

2 Aid (6)

3 Appraised (8)

4 Grunge musician Cobain (4)

5 Personal items (10)

6 Medical professionals (6)

7 Nightwear (8)

8 Haughty (8)

13 Expert (10)

16 The way one acts (8)

17 Resent someone’s pleasure or good fortune (8)

18 Being admitted to a church (8)

21 Fictional castaway (6)

22 Spindle for thread (6)

23 City of the 2004 Olympic Games (6)

26 Declare (4)

DECODER WORDFIT

1 14

2 15

3 16

4 17

5 18

6 19

7 20

8 21

9 22

10 23

11 24

12 25

12 345678910111213

9-LETTER WORD

726813549

831954762

162349857 615497283

987125634 394268175

549672318

278531496

896427513

478356129

962718354

721935468 287549631

543681297 659173842

easy medium hard

135294786

314862975

O C I E D Today’s Aim:

251394687

19 3 LETTERS ALL AYE EGG END ERA GEE GYM HER IVY KIT LEG LIE NIL ODE ORE OVA PEA ROE ROT RUE SLY UPS WAS WON 4 LETTERS CLAP DASH EARS EBBS LIMP LYRE NEAR NEST ONES PAWS STOW TREK VASE WEBS

384965712

572481963

453786921 927638145

436827591 165742839

798516324 843159276

619273458

cent, codeine, coin, coined, concede, conceit, CONCEITED, cone, coned, conic, decent, denote, dent, dine, dint, docent, done, donee, encode, entice, enticed, icon, into, need, nice, niece, node, note, noted, notice, noticed, occident, once, tend, tine, tone, toned, tonic

Good 5 LETTERS ADAGE ADEPT ALGAE ALIEN ANTIC AORTA ARENA BIPED BOOED BRINE DINER EATEN EAVES EGGED ELITE ELUDE ERASE ERROR ESSAY HALON HELLO

INANE IVIES KNEES LINES LIVES LUNGE MINCE NERVE OUTED PETAL PLOYS PRESS RENEW SASSY SAWED SEEDS SEEDY SENDS SOLVE SPIKE STARE STRAW

SUGAR TEEMS TENDS TRIPE TWEET VEERS WEEDY 6 LETTERS GRASSY NEARED PASTEL SIERRA

13 26 KO 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

7 LETTERS ENGRAVE GENTILE ILLEGAL INSERTS SOPRANO STATION 8 LETTERS DILATING GREETING LENIENCY LESSENED

1415 1617181920212223242526 J V T G Q C H L U D Y A B Z M R F W P N E I X K S O 21-04-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

This week’s crossword proudly sponsored by The Heritage Family 1157336-CB40-14

No. 129

No. 129

No. 129

SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

THIS stunning architecturally designed home is set in the picturesque region of Marysville & Narbethong which is only 30 minutes from Healesville and on the doorstep of the Lake Mountain Snowfields. With beautiful native Australian forest behind the property and the Acheron River on your doorstep, this property is the perfect country escape.

Walking into the home the sense of space is immediate when you see the large open plan living & dining area plus the well-equipped modern kitchen complete with stone tops and a glass splashback all overlooking the peaceful garden.

Keeping your home cosy is the large Coonara wood heater, plus the addition of multiple split systems throughout the home to you cool in those warm summer months. Walking through the home you will discover the massive entertaining room and large guest bedroom with BIR.s plus bathroom all

on the ground floor.

Making your way to the upper level, you enter the massive hallway which leads to the generous master suite complete with walk in robe / dressing room plus private ensuite. Family accommodation is by way of 4 huge bedrooms with BIR.s which all offer views across the gardens, plus a 3rd stylish family bathroom.

Outside is the perfect place to relax and unwind while listening to the birds that frequent the gardens. There is also a large double carport, character garage / workshop, plus a covered entertaining area, ideally for those larger family occasions.

This complete property sits on approximately 1 acre, while being surrounded by the native bushland and cleared crown land, offers an immense sense of space. Only with an inspection can you fully appreciate this wonderful property. ●

INCREDIBLE LIFESTYLE PROPERTY

HAVE you always wanted to own a country property where you can get away from it all? This might just be the one you have been waiting for. Not only will you be surrounded by the beauty of more than 138 acres of pasture, natural bush, and tranquil waterways. You will also have northerly views to distant mountain ranges and wide open spaces where privacy, peace and total enjoyment are yours.

The quality built, 4 bedroom brick home offers bush and pasture views from all living areas plus the wrap around verandah. There are 3 spacious living areas with polished hardwood floors, and a timber kitchen with under bench oven plus gas and electric hotplates catering to the whole family’s needs. The combined family room/meals area adjoins the kitchen and features a crackling wood-burning fireplace plus split system air conditioner and doors leading to the verandah, where alfresco dining will be a delight.

Cafe style blinds offer all weather enjoyment and there is plenty of open decked space for making the most of a sunny day. The huge living room provides an ideal place for large gatherings. It features another wood-burning fireplace for warmth and atmosphere. The sun room adjoining this area offers the perfect setting to bask in natural light whilst reading, take in the

tranquillity, or spending quality time with a close friend. The zoned bedrooms provide privacy for all. The large master suite is serviced by a full ensuite and walk in robe. It has doors out to the verandah - ideal for Sunday brunches. The master suite also has a split system air-conditioner. The remaining bedrooms have built in robes and are serviced by a family bathroom and separate powder room.

A heat recovery system transfers heat from the roof cavity into the home – reducing your heating costs. Add in solar panels and tank water, and your running costs should be very low. Internal access from the oversized triple garage makes life even easier. A separate entry to the property provides direct access to the huge (approx. 8m x 14m) farm shed, cattle yard, paddocks, and enormous spring fed lake.

Imagine a life where you can raise cattle, pursue your equestrian dream, grow your own food, enjoy water sports and delight in the variety of native animals and colourful birds that you share the property with. All situated within easy reach of school buses and a short drive to the townships of Cockatoo and Gembrook - where a variety of highly regarded eateries, sporting facilities, child care centres and community groups can be found.

Make your best move today. ●

HOME WITH MAGNICAL VIEWS

THE opportunity now exists for this home to be presented to market after being loved by the same family for over 60 years.

Offering magical northerly mountain views where you can see the snow in winter on Mount Donna Buang, a large allotment of over half an acre of cleared and sunny spots to enjoy your surroundings.

The entertainment deck has amazing potential as the place to soak up the sunshine and country air and enjoy those views. Offering 3 bedrooms, original kitchen with adjacent dining area, separate lounge with a cosy fireplace. Garage/workshop for handy storage and a super large backyard to enjoy and absorb the peace and quiet.

With a little elbow grease you could enjoy this wonderful home and soak up all the delights of this bustling township just a short stroll to the Yarra River, shops, transport. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

Address: 4 Pheasant Parade, WARBURTON Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1 garage Price: $610,000 - $660,000

Contact: Rebecca Doolan 0401 832 068, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION. 5967 1277

Healesville 3RosemontMews SpaciousLiving

Thisstylishtownhouseislocatedinaquietarea& idealforthe firsthomebuyer,downsizerorasa smartinvestment.Offeringaspaciousmasterwith WIR&connectedtothelargebathroom,2nd bedroomwithBIR,separatetoilet/powderroom, openplankitchen/dining&livingareawhich looksouttotheeasytomaintaincourtyard. CurrentlyleaseduntilJune2023at$1586pcm.

$590,000-$695,000

Inspect: By appointment

today&haveyourproperty SOLDthisAutumn!

EXPERIENCE COUNTRY LIVING AT ITS FINEST

LOOKING for a charming, character-filled home with a country ambiance? Look no further than this beautifully renovated Cottage! Built between 1915-1920’s, this property boasts three bedrooms, two bathrooms/en suite, and two car spaces. You’ll love the extensive veranda with multiple seating areas, perfect to enjoy the established garden.

Step inside through the leadlight glass front door and admire the character features including Baltic Pine floorboards, high ceiling, sash windows, and French doors. The master bedroom, with its garden views, has a built-in robe, ensuite and open fireplace. Other features include an openplan kitchen, dining and lounge space with the kitchen offering a walk-in pantry and gas stop top with electric oven. The lounge exudes warmth with carpeting and a log wood fireplace. Heating and cooling are also offered for this area via the reverse cycle system. This open plan space is abundant with soft light filtering in through the three French doors from the deciduous vine screened veranda.

The main bathroom is a light filled space with shower over bath and toilet; the laundry is also situated within this bathroom - with a farm-style laundry sink and space for a washing machine and possibly a dryer. From the mudroom, exit out the rear door onto separate veranda and securely fenced garden. In this space, you’ll also find a tool/ storage shed and water tank.

Conveniently located on a corner block and within walking distance to Yea Primary School, Railway Park and playground, and Yea Swimming pool; access to the Great Victorian Rail Trail is within Railway Park.

Don’t miss your chance to own this unique, character-filled cottage in a serene country setting. Contact us today to arrange a viewing. ●

With over 75 years combined experience, Integrity's agents have the most thorough knowledge of your local market.

maximise your sale result.

BOTANICAL HIDEAWAY

WHERE privacy is offered, fresh air is enjoyed and a lovely comfortable home is nestled into beautiful gardens on over 1200m2, this home offers a prized package.

With a layout that would be ideal for weekenders, and for weeks on end, this home offers everything you could want for a blissful escape.

From the timber kitchen with stone bench tops, to the delicious snuggly carpet that you just want to lie down on, the large wrap around deck to sit on take in the views, to the beautiful gardens and hidden workshop, there is so much to love and enjoy.

Offering 3 or 4 bedrooms or extra living rooms, spacious bathroom, open plan living, meals kitchen, split system heating and cooling, carport and plenty of off street parking.

If you are a hiker, bike rider and nature lover, then this home is position perfect with a 1 minute walk to an entrance to the O’Shannassy Aqueduct trail, where you can wander to your hearts content, and you are only minutes’ drive to the centre of town for a coffee and a stroll around the shops. Position perfect and lovely, you wont be disappointed. ●

13AClydeStreet,Lilydale$680,000-$740,000

Immaculatehomewithprivacy

Afantastic firsthomeorInvestandforgetwithanamazingtenantinplaceonmonthtomonth lease.Immaculatelypresentedyouhavethis3bedroom,1bathroomhomewithextrastudyarea orsecondliving.Openplan,brightandlight,thisonereallyhasitall!Setatthebackwithitsown drivewaywhichassuresprivacy,adoublecarportwithroomtomoveandparkiswhatgreets youalongwithstorageshed!Alovelyfrontdeckingtoenjoytheambience,aswellasabeautiful grassedandprivatecourtyardareaatthesideaccessedviaaslidingdoorfromyourlivingarea.An updatedkitchen,greatcolorpalletandgorgeousoriginalhardwood floorsreally finishthisproperty off.Only10minuteswalk(approx)toLilydaleHighSchool,MarketPlaceshoppingandallithasto offer!

eahBannerman M 0448924266

Warmandwelcomingandideallylocated

Awarmandwelcomingpropertyinaconvenientandsoughtafterlocation,anidyllicandattractive positionsetamongstasemiruralsettingandjustminutesstrolltothelocalprimaryschool,public transport,walkingtrailandtheeverpopularfoodieoutletsinthemainstreet.A flexibleandfunctional floorplanoffersgreatspaceforthewholefamilywith3bedroomsandanopenplankitchenwith plentyofbenchandcupboardspace,aseparatemealsareaandlight filledlounge/livingareas withfulllengthwindowsistheidealplacetositbackrelaxandenjoytherusticoutlook.Hoursof funoutsideforthekidsandpetstoexploreandenjoysituatedonapprox.940sqmwithamixtureof treesandshrubs,easyaccessforcarsandtrailersplusaseparatecarportcompletethisattractive propertyandwithservicesclosebyit’sagreatplacetocallhome.

108WongaRoad,Millgrove$530,000-$570,000

Asuperpackage-Millgrovedelightallreadyforyou!

Areyoulookingforagreatvaluehomethatyoucanmoverightintoandbeproudtocallyourown?

LooknofurtherthanthisMillgrovegemofferingYarraValleylivingalongwithprivacyandagreat communityfeel.Wellpresentedlightandbright,this3bedroom,1bathroomhomeisfullyfenced andoffersviewsfromtherearofMtLittleJoeaswellasagoodsizecompletelyuseableblockthatis fullyfenced.Completewithceilingfansthroughout,gasductedheatingandsplitsystemsyouhave allclimatescoveredandnothingtodoexceptmoveinandenjoyyournewlifestyle!Extrasinclude biguprightstainlesssteelcooker,gorgeouscharactersleighbathandashortwalktoYarraRiver, transport,PreSchoolandSchool.Callnowanddon’tmissoutonthisfabulouspackage!

eahBannerman M 0448924266

18SurreyRoad,Warburton$700,000-$770,000

SurreyRoadaddressonover1000sqm!

Thisbrickhomeissetonover1100sqmofgorgeousrollinggreenland,mountainviewseithersideand theiconicWarburtongolfcourseonlyahopskipandjumpaway!Featuring3greatsizebedroomsallwithrobes.1bathroomwithadjoiningtoilet-easyaccesstobathroom/toilet/laundry-whichalso actsasamudroom.Thebackyardwithmountainviews-itliterallyfeelslikeyoucanreachoutand touchthem-it’sstunning!Veggiegardens,sittingarea,gazeboreallycompletesthebackyard.The backyardisfullyfencedandenclosedtokeepanimalsandchildrenandsafe,doublegatesinfront ofthe1cargaragegiveyouaccesstotheyard.Extrasincludebackundercoverareathatisvery privateforentertaining,ceilingfansthatretractthroughout,splitsystemsx2,gasductedheating andplentyofstorageinthekitchenandextracupboards.

LeahBannerman M 0448924266

FAMILY HOME WITH SPACE TO GROW

LARGER than meets the eye, this spacious, split level family home offers three well sized bedrooms (master suite with ensuite and walk in robe), two bathrooms and two huge, separate living zones.

The modern, oversized kitchen comes complete with plenty of bench space, great storage and stainless steel appliances including dishwasher, whilst raked timber lined ceilings look down across this excellent floorplan and oversized windows allow plenty of light to come through each and every room.

Ducted heating, a beautiful wood fire and multiple split systems give quick, convenient and cosy heating/cooling options all year round making this home practical for all weather conditions.

Outside, a large expanse of decking surrounds the house and gives you another living space in the warmer months while the fenced rear yard with and almost half an acre of space to play will be ideal for children. The nearby valley views surround the property allowing a peaceful outlook from every angle.

A triple carport plus a dual parking area and a large garden shed for your extra storage requirements can be found off the sealed, easy access driveway making this property perfect for anyone needing extra space to store trailers, trucks and toys. An excellent property both inside and out, this one is sure to impress. ●

3 A 1 B 3 C

Boastingamodest,neatandtidy3bedroom,familyhome,thispropertyallowsyoutobe completelyprivatefromtheadjoiningpropertiesgivingpeaceandprivacyforeveryone. Hardwoodtimberfloorboardscanbefoundthroughoutwhilstlargewindowscreateplenty ofnaturallightaswellasgivingyouagardenviewfromeveryroom.Aperfectprojectfor thoselookingtoextendorre-model(STCA),thisistheideallocationforthoseofyouwho arelookingtocreatetheirforeverfamilyhome.

SharynChandler

M 0439882442| E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

Largerthanmeetstheeye,thisspacious,splitlevelfamilyhomeoffersthreewellsized bedrooms(mastersuitewithensuiteandwalkinrobe),twobathroomsandtwohuge, separatelivingzones.Themodern,oversizedkitchencomescompletewithplentyofbench space,greatstorageandstainlesssteelappliancesincludingdishwasher,whilstraked timberlinedceilingslookdownacrossthisexcellentfloorplanandoversizedwindowsallow plentyoflighttocomethrougheachandeveryroom.

6LacyStreet,SELBY

$840,000-$920,000

ARCHITECTURALLYDESIGNEDHALF-ACREFAMILYHAVEN 4 A 2 B 5 C

Thishalf-acrehavenanchoredbyanarchitecturallydesignedfamilydwellingisforbuyers seekingsomethingspecial.Uniquelyappealing,richwithcharacter,andsettoabackdrop ofbreathtakingviews,thisisapropertytobeproudof.The2,027sqm(approx.)landscape thatframesthishomeboastsasprawlingoutdoorentertainingareaidealforgathering.The exceptionaldesignofthisresidenceisintroducedbytheinvitingatriumentrythatcreatesa seamlessconnectionbetweenindoorandoutdoorspaces.

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

GlennChandler

M 0418410689| E glenn@chandlerandco.com.au

12KaluluRoad,BELGRAVE $730,000-$800,000

AKALEIDOSCOPEOFCOLOURFULVIEWS

3 A 1 B 3 C

Boastingamodest,neatandtidy3bedroom,familyhome,thispropertyallowsyoutobe completelyprivatefromtheadjoiningpropertiesgivingpeaceandprivacyforeveryone. Hardwoodtimberfloorboardscanbefoundthroughoutwhilstlargewindowscreateplenty ofnaturallightaswellasgivingyouagardenviewfromeveryroom.Aperfectprojectfor thoselookingtoextendorre-model(STCA),thisistheideallocationforthoseofyouwho arelookingtocreatetheirforeverfamilyhome.

SharynChandler

M 0439882442| E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

General Notices

new Vodafone panel antennas (each measuring not more than 2.8m in length).

•The removal of three (3) existing Optus panel antennas to be replaced with three (3) new Optus panel antennas (each measuring not more than 2.8m in length);

•The installation of three (3) new Vodafone 5G antennas and three (3) new Optus 5G antennas (each measuring not more than 2.8m in length).

•The installation of ancillary equipment including remote radio units (RRUs), GPS antennas, antenna mounts, feeders, cabling, combiners and other associated equipment; and ancillary works within the existing equipment shelter.

2. Vodafone and Optus regard the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the description above.

3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Ben Lavery at Service Stream Limited, 0497 833 252, TPG.Submissions@ servicestream.com.au or Level 3, Tower B, Zenith Centre 821 Pacific Highway, Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5.00pm Friday 12 May 2023

4. If you would like to know more about this site, further information can be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/3139012

General Classifieds

AGISTMENT For cattle. 136 acres of pasture.

Yarra Valley. Good water.

Shade. Yards. Just fertilised. Long/short term. Offersinvited. 5962

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

12600567-JC16-23

SPORT Tackling powerful Seville

By Anne-Marie Ebbels

Round 1 kicked off this week with a tough assignment for both the Healesville Men’s football and the Netball teams taking on Division 1 powerhouse Seville.

The weather provided an extra challenge with the intermittent rain and wind.

The Seville Reserves team had a commanding lead by halftime.

Healesville came out firing in the third quarterkickingthreegoalstoSevilletwo,butcouldn’t keep up the momentum in the last quarter with Seville running out 55-point winners.

The senior game was a much closer game with Healesville going into the first break with a one-point lead. Seville came out in the second quarter and dominated the scoring and kept Healesville goalless.

Healesville came out after halftime and won the third quarter, keeping Seville goalless, going into the final change 19 points behind.

Seville continued to be wasteful in front of the goal, but Healesville couldn’t peg back the lead. Seville ran out the eventual winners by 15 points.

In netball, the Healesville A grade faced last season’s premiers who showed why they were premiers.

Seville jumped out the blocks with a fast start in the first quarter and the Healesville team was left with an insurmountable task to reel the lead back in, they battled valiantly, but couldn’t peg back the dominant Seville team.

It was similar story for both the B and C grade teams with Seville being too strong.

Healesville plays its first home games for netball againstYea this weekend and new players are still welcome.

TheWomen’s football team travelled to Berwick Springs for their first game of the season.

Healesville showed why they have been grand finalists the last few seasons and controlled the game from start to finish, despite the physicality of the Berwick Springs.

Healesville finished the game with a 38-point win.

The Vets team had the best of the weekend’s conditions playing Devon Meadows on Sunday.

They showed why they were premiers in 2022 with a dominant display from the first bounce.

They went into the first break with a 29-point lead.

Devon Meadows hit back in the second quarter reducing the margin to 19 points at the main break.

Healesville dominated the third quarter once again kicking with the wind.

Devon Meadows couldn’t claw back the difference in the last quarter despite kicking with the wind with the final margin being 27 points.

Results

Netball

· A Grade Healesville 17 defeated by Seville 95 Best B Erickson, J Milne, K Farrow

· B Grade Healesville 8 defeated by Seville 69 Best H Blackney, C Bouma, A White

· C Grade Healesville 9 defeated by Seville 60 Best N Kaal, C Haywood, Z Boundy

Football

· Womens Healesville 8.5 defeated Berwick Springs 2.3 Best A Bryan, I Renouf, I WraithTenson, P Pavic, I Stock, S Potter

· Mens Snr Healesville 7.7 defeated by Seville 8.16, Best N Mende, D Plozza, C Frazzetto, C Warren, L Daly, W Kristelly-Kelety

· Mens Reserve Healesville 6.5 defeated by Seville 14.12, Best D Ebbels, R Hargreaves, J Draper, B Mole, R Sanders

· Veterans Healesville 9.9 defeated Devon Meadows 5.

Yarra Glen kicks off season with a trip to Alexandra

By David Ball

Yarra Glen started the season with a trip to Alexandra, whilst the playing surfaces were a bit rough, the facilities and hospitality at Alex were fantastic.

The Senior football team was competitive early, being only 15 points down at halftime after Alexandra took a 19 point lead into quarter time.

Tom Sullivan and Ben Ashton provided plenty of drive in the midfield and Josh Hawkins was lively up forward.

The Alex forwards in Watkin and Stewart were proving too strong despite some early close checking from the River Pigs defenders.

Having outscored Alex in the second quarter, the Rebels responded with a 7 goal burst in the third to take control.

They were able to spread well from the defence which resulted in Yarra Glen having to do a lot of chasing.

This took its toll as the River Pigs tired late in the game.

The less than ideal preseason showed as forward moves lacked connection.

There was no lack of effort and there were patches of good football played but Yarra Glen ended the day losing 6.12 to 16.16.

Best players were Ben Ashton, Tom Sullivan, Jimmy Marks, Jayden Schille and Nick McKenzie. Goal kickers were Marcus Kikadopolous (2), Josh Hawkins, Blake Binion, Ben Ashton and Chris Beattie.

The Yarra Glen reserves did a great job to field a near full team despite a having a long list of unavailable players.

Despite being undermanned Yarra Glen kept Alex honest in the first quarter.

The Rebels started the second quarter running hard and with some of their quicker players getting plenty of the ball they piled the pressure on the River Pig defence and

with some strong marking forwards, they proved to be too good for theYarra Glen boys.

New players to the club Nick Ruciack and Ben Thomas were outstanding, with great support from Luke Vanderstadt, Cal and Pat Tucker and Drew Brodie.

Goal kickers were Cal Tucker, Nick Martin and Luke Vanderstadt. Final scores, Yarra Glen 3.2 losing to Alexandra 17.8

TheYarra Glen rooms are still under repair following last year’s floods, so Yarra Glen will take on Broadford at Woori Yallock next Saturday.

Yarra Glen’s netballers had a great day at Alexandra with all 3 teams winning.

Sadly Alex was unable to field a D Grade team.

In A grade the first quarter was a goal for goal affairs with scores locked at 9 all at the first break.

Yarra Glen came out firing in the 2nd quarter to pile on 15 goals to the Rebels 9.

It was a competitive game with Yarra Glen just proving that little bit better each quarter to stretch out the lead to finish up winning 48 to 36.

Madeline Hargrave was Yarra’s best with 36 goals, well supported by Kayla Toomer and Gemma Ryan.

B Grade were always in control, linking up better than Alex throughout the game. Leading by five at quarter time Yarra Glen faced a more determined Rebels team in the second, with both teams scoring nine goals.

The second half was dominated by the

Yarra Glen girls, finishing victors 40 to 25.

Best players were Tiah Large, Alex Bray (22 goals) and Jasmin Wood.

C Grade started off the season for Yarra Glen and did it in fine style.

They took a 12 to 4 lead into quarter time ad extended their lead in each of the final 3 quarters.

Forcing many turnovers and intercepting well in defence meant the goal shooters were getting plenty of chances up forward.

They capitalised well and Yarra Glen won each quarter well to finish convincing winners, 51 to 18.

Best players were Sarah Orlandi (30 goals), Kim Christian and Sarah Matthews.

The netballers join the footballers atWoori Yallock next week to take on Broadford.

Roundhaskickedofffortheyear.

Picture:ONFILE

WillKristelly-Ketely(27)andCharlieWarren(4).

Pictures:KYLIEROWE

MattMoretonandCoryLakey.

SPORT

Strong start for the Burras

By Alex Woods

Football and Netball is back for the 2023 Season. After a strong preseason in both departments and good numbers, it was time for Warburton-Millgrove to convert what they’ve worked on into round 1.

The Burras ventured up to Broadford for 4 netball games and 2 football games. The weather was fresh with some wind and slight rain at times. It made for some interesting matches but we still put out best foot forward.

Up first was the 17 and Under netball. After a positive finish to the 2022 season, it was a new day and a new start for this young team. With 10 players remaining from last year, with the inclusion of Lexi Cole, this team was ready to put their skills into action. A strong start that sawTayah Humphrey put up 6 goals in the first quarter, to Broadford’s 3. The team manage to keep Broadford scoreless in the second quarter whilst still putting up another 3 themselves, having a halftime score of 3-9. The third quarter seems to lean towards Broadford’s way slightly, having added another 5 goals to make their total at 3-quarter time 8 to 11. But a quick reset, some adjustments and the team went out refreshed outscoring them 1-8 in the last term, producing an end score of Broadford 9 to WMFNC, 19. A solid game from co-captain, Tegan Bucher, Tayah Humphrey (shooting 16 of Warby’s 19 goals) and Lucas Rush in defence. Good start, team!

Up next was C Grade, who once again turned it on. A new team, with only Mel Hancock being the only player remaining from last season’s Grand Final team. With a couple of new players, some returning and some stepping up, they produced a strong first half having a total score of 11-16 in their favour.

Broadford stayed close in the third quarter, but with some strong defence, and great midcourt work into the goals, the girls retained the 5-goal lead heading into the last term. In the last quarter, the C Grade girls managed to increase the lead out shooting Broadford 5 to 12. The final score was 21-33 with great defence from new inclusion Ruby Kelly. Captain, Mel Hancock was also in the best shooting 18 goals.

Nicole Winzer also had a strong game assisting the girls with her defensive skills also, as the D Grade Grand Final ‘Best on Court’ getter, moves up to C Grade. Ella Meerkotter also contributed 15 goals to the team’s winning start.

The first football match was now getting underway, as the Reserves ran out on the field to take on Broadford. This team is a mix of young, experienced and older players, which is perfect for the development of the club and assisting last year’s Under 18’s in growing their football. This team of 22, ran out strong from the beginning. The Reserves managed to kick 20.6-126 to Broadford’s 2.1-13.

Young Liam Westlake contributed 6 goals in his first Reserves game, Josh Read also put away 4 and Marcel Kocher 3 goals to his name also. Dave Bedggood, Brayden Ferguson, Rob-

bie Marshall, Charlin Nyhuis, Hudson Semple, Matthew Sidari and Christian Toy also contributed 1 goal to the team’s win. Solid performances from Liam Westlake, Marcel Kocher, Josh Read, Brayden Woolridge, Matthew Sidari and Dave Bedggood, who all earned themselves in the bests for the day.

Next up was B Grade netball. Broadford’s B Grade were a strong side, and the Burras definitely had to give everything they had. The girls were strong but couldn’t get the lead at the quarter-time break, being down 12-8. By the halftime break, the scores were 22-14 as Broadford added another 10 goals to their total to Burras 6. Some changes, a refresh and back out they went. Some silly mistakes were slightly costly as Burras shot 8 goals to Broadford’s 12 in the third quarter, but that didn’t let them put their heads down. The total at this point was Broadford 34 to Burras 22, and the aim heading into the last term was to use defensive pressure all throughout and convert turnovers into goals. They did and won the last quarter by shooting 10 goals to Broadford’s 9, but unfortunately, Broadford won the match having an ending score of 43 to Burras 32. Solid performance from Captain, Chelsea Barnard in the defensive end, as well as AlexWoods in the goaling end, putting up 18 goals for the match.

Advancing from C grade to B Grade, we saw

Powelltown take home the Jeff Cole Shield

Reigning premiers Powelltown has gotten their flag defence off to the best possible start with a comfortable win against local rivals Yarra Junction in the Jeff Cole Shield.

The Demons’ new cult hero Jimmy Messis kicked 6 goals, but it was new recruit Gary Conyers who took home Best on Ground honours. Eagles captain Ewan Wadsworth was resolute in the defeat, kicked three goals for Yarra Junction.

It was an emotional day for a few supporters, with the match marking the first year of the Shield without the legendary Jeff Cole himself, who died in 2022.

Black armbands were worn for Jeff, but Powelltown also wore two more for Angela Walker and Liam Moreland.

The Towners won all seven matches between the two football sides and the netballers.

· Seniors: Powelltown 17.19.121 defeated Yarra Junction 11.13.79

· Reserves: Powelltown 12.13.85 defeated Yarra Junction 2.5.17

· 17s Netball: Powelltown 29 to Yarra Junction 9

· D Netball: Powelltown 38 to Yarra Junction

4

· C Netball: Powelltown 52 to Yarra Junction

9

· B Netball: Powelltown 49 to Yarra Junction

29

· A Netball: Powelltown 51 to Yarra Junction

42

Emily Hay come up and also put herself in the best working in both defence and goals (putting up 5 goals in the third quarter). Jordana Butcher also contributed 9 for the match also. Some things to take away from the game but definitely can see this young team putting it up to Broadford next time they meet.

The last game to take the court was A Grade, and intense this was. A close game throughout and Broadford definitely tested the A Grade side. Last time this team met was in the 2022 Grand Final, which saw the Burras premiers. But with a couple of players out, a new inclusion in Indiana Pinnock and returning face, Karly Wappett, it was a fresh start and a new season. Broadford had a strong start leading at quarter time 7-9, and by the halftime break, Warburton-Millgrove only had a 1-goal lead. Broadford’s defensive pressure was present all through the match and had some strong drives and passes. But we managed to hold onto a 3-goal lead at the 3-quarter time break. The last quarter was intense, and the Burras started to feel depleted as the last term went on. Great defence from Ally Langdon and mid-court work from Ashlyn Elliott, but unfortunately some things didn’t go their way and Broadford took the win home by 3 goals. With a total score of 35 to 37, Ashlyn Elliott, Karly Wappett and Ally Langdon put in solid performances, with Karly putting up 19 goals and Bianca Daniels with 16.

The last match for the day was Seniors Football, just like the Reserves side, this team features a range of fresh, young talent coming up, as well as some experienced players to help them develop their game. The Burras welcome Tom Barr, Ben Pretty, Jono Farrar, Will Farrer to the club who carry a wealth of football experience and new, fresh young faces in, Lachy Marr and Toby Mitchell, as well as DylanWalker debuting in the Seniors after playing Under 18s in the 2022 Season. Tyson Henry has also stepped up into the Seniors after playing Reserves and Unders for the majority of 2022, as well as 2 Seniors games. In the first half, new recruit, Will Farrer put away 5 goals. 14 to 78 was the halftime score, but with a quieter third term, the last break was 23 to 80. The boys definitely turned it back on in the last quarter, keeping Broadford scoreless in the last quarter and contributing another 29 points to our total score of 3.5-23 to 16.11-107. Solid performance in this match fromTom Barr, contributing 2 goals to the Burras’ win. Will Farrer was also named among the top performers, kicking 5 goals for the match. Young gun, Lachy Marr saw himself in there also kicking 2 goals, as well as Ruckman Nelson Aldridge giving a solid game, Patty Huynh and Tom Marr also starred. 2 goals from young stars Bailey Humphrey, Blake Muir and Josh Sharp as well as one from Trent Elliott.

Powelltown claimed the Jeff Cole Shield in 2023.

Picture: POWELLTOWN FOOTBALL NETBALL CLUB

All smiles in the rooms for the Burras. Picture: SUPPLIED

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