Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 9th May 2023

Government cracks down on vaping

Monbulk Primary nominated for sustainability

Celebrating 35 years of Emerald Ladies Probus

Ukulele Festival returns to the Hills in late May

Tasty nut

The Kalorama Chestnut Festival was held on Sunday 7 May, giving locals and visitors the chance to enjoy food stalls, local craft products, like music and of course chestnutthemed foods and activities. The volunteer-ran festival, which is a joint fundraiser for Mt Dandenong Primary School and Mt Dandenong Kindergarten, has been running for over 30 years.

Turn to page 6 for more

An attendee enjoying a roasted chestnut at the festival.

New campus plan

By Parker McKenzie

After acquiring the former school grounds of Mountain District Christian School earlier this year, Cire Services will add to its community schools in Berwick, Yarra Junction, Mount Evelyn and Lilydale starting in 2024.

Cire Services is a not-for-profit and registered charity founded in the Yarra Ranges as the Upper Yarra Community House in 1976 and offers community schooling for at-risk youth, training, early learning and community

outreach services.

Cire Services CEO Gus Seremetis told the Star Mail the opportunity to acquire the new campus, located at 325 Macclesfield Road Monbulk, arose in late 2022.

“We went through the process of liaising with the agents and our understanding was that it was going to go out as an expression of interest,” she said.

“It’s an amazing opportunity. 17 and a half acres gives our students the opportunity to have experiences they couldn’t before and our

other campuses don’t have access to a lot of the resources or the facilities that are there.”

Mountain District Christian School operated for 43 years, however, financial difficulties led to the school announcing its closure in October 2022.

Cire Community Schools currently have around 360 students across its four campuses, where it offers co-educational schooling catering to young people who have or are at risk of disengaging from their education and require an alternative to mainstream schooling.

Ms Seremetis said there has been a lot of support and interest from the local community since the acquisition was announced.

“You could open a school like ours in almost every suburb and you would be at capacity,” she said.

“A lot of kids struggle with mainstream, so we’re an alternative. It doesn’t suit every student but it suits a lot of students, we’re really pleased that we’re in a position to be able to offer this.”

For more, turn to page 5

Picture: TANYA STEELE

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The Premiers’ Reading Challenge is a fun way to nurture important literacy skills that stay with children for life. Encourage your child to go wild about reading and experience the world through books and stories.

The Challenge is open to children and young people from birth to Year 10. Learn more at vic.gov.au/premiers-reading-challenge

Vaping crackdown

By Callum Ludwig

The Australian Government has made a big budget commitment dedicated to stamping out the use of vapes and discouraging a switch to smoking as lung cancer continues to kill more than any other cancer in Australia.

$737 million has been allocated in 2023/24 Federal Budget to fund new measures to restrict importation and sales and improve the quality and packaging of vaping products.

Associate Professor Johnson George of Monash University Centre for Medicine Use and Safety and Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences said there is no place for vaping as an evidence-based smoking cessation strategy in the management of nicotine dependence.

“Efforts should be directed at improving access to subsidised smoking cessation treatments in combination with behavioural counselling,” he said.

“Prescription and non-prescription smoking cessation medications currently available are safe, efficacious and cost-effective. Other approaches should not be considered until such options have been exhausted.”

Vaping is particularly prevalent among younger people and due to the highly addictive nature of nicotine, concerns have been raised in recent years about the potential for lifelong addiction.

A Yarra Ranges school that wished to remain anonymous said they acknowledge that vaping is a significant community concern, especially amongst young people.

“We strongly support measures to reduce access and availability of e-cigarettes. There is clear evidence now that vaping has significant long-term health risks, not dissimilar to smoking,” they said.

“We have been educating our students over the past couple of years on the dangers of vaping in the hope they will make good choices about their future health outcomes.”

In an effort to quash the black market for illegal vapes, the federal and state governments will be stopping the importation of non-prescription use vapes and banning all single-use disposable vapes, restricting colours, flavours ingredients and nicotine volume and enforcing pharmaceutical-like packaging.

Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler said vaping is creating a whole new generation of nicotine dependency in our community.

“It poses a major threat to Australia’s success in tobacco control and the Albanese Government is not going to stand by and let this happen,” he said.

“Australia needs to reclaim its position as a world leader on tobacco control.”

The changes will be supported by the pro-

posed national tobacco control legislation announced in November 2022 and help achieve the goals of the National Tobacco Strategy 2023–2030 also released on Tuesday 2 May in reducing daily smoking prevalence to less than 10 per cent by 2025 and at or under 5 per cent by 2030.

Mr Butler said these reform measures will help protect the health of Australians, while reducing the pressure on our health system.

“Vaping was sold to governments and communities around the world as a therapeutic product to help long-term smokers quit. It was not sold as a recreational product - especially not one targeted to our kids but that is what it has become,” he said.

“Young people who vape are three times as likely to take up smoking. So is it any wonder that under 25s are the only cohort in the community currently recording an increase in smoking rates?”

Funding will also deliver a public health information campaign on the dangers of smoking and vaping to discourage new smokers and urge current smokers to quit, supported programs in nicotine cessation education and health practitioner training, a 3-year additional 5 per cent tax on tobacco on top of normal indexation, alignment of tax on loose-leaf tobacco products and a new national lung cancer screening program.

Koolunga Native Reserve plan released

By Parker McKenzie

Knox City Council has released the draft future directions plan for Koolunga Native Reserve, and local residents have the chance to have a say on it until Sunday 28 May.

Koolunga Native Reserve is located at Forest Road on the border of Boronia and Ferntree Gully and the 14-acre reserve is a popular location for dog walkers. AfterPlanned works to build a wetland area at the reserve faced opposition from local residents when it was announced, who expressed frustration about a lack of consultation regarding the potential changes to Koolunga.

“Council’s proposed plans to introduce a wetlands to improve stormwater in 2018 were not supported by some community members and Council has taken this feedback on board and committed to considering the future directions of the Reserve more broadly, including improved outcomes for the environment and community health and

Knox City Council has released the draft future directions plan for Koolunga Native Reserve, and local residents have the chance to have a say on it until Sunday 28 May.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

wellbeing,” the draft plan said.

The plan states that the reserve is critical habitat for more than 50 bird species and other animals including two frog species, galaxias fish, short-finned eels, echidnas, sugar gliders among others.

In the draft plan, Knox City Council acknowledges it “could have delivered a better

community engagement experience at each stage.”

“To ensure we learn from this, we are completing a review of the community engagement program for Koolunga Native Reserve across the life of this particular project,” the plan said.

“We will share the findings of this review with you and take the findings into consideration when reviewing our community engagement policy and practices.”

The council said it will compile a review of feedback from consultation activities and update the future directions to plan to reflect what it has heard.

Consultation sessions will be held at the open space at the north of the reserve (36 Daffodil Road, Koolunga Native Reserve) on:

· Tuesday 9 May 4pm to 6pm

· Thursday 11 May 4pm to 6pm

· Saturday 13 May 11am to 1pm

· Wednesday 17 May 5pm to 7pm

Blood donation pop-up

Red Cross will host pop-up blood donor centres in late May throughout Upwey.

“One in three people in Upwey will need blood during their lives — and without amazing locals like you spreading the word, that blood may not be there at the crucial moment,” Red Cross said.

There will be a pop-up blood donor centre near Upwey Community Hall on:

· Monday 22 May 12.30-8pm

· Tuesday 23 May 12-8pm

· Wednesday 24 May 12-8 pm

· Thursday 25 May 12-8pm

· Friday 26 May 8 am–3.30pm

· Saturday 27 May 8am–3pm

Dairy product recall

Coca-Cola Europacific is recalling Barista Bros Double Espresso, Iced Chocolate, Espresso and Mocha (500ml and 700ml bottles), best before 30 September 2023 onwards.

The recall is due to a potential packaging fault leading to a possible contamination risk.

These products were available for sale nationally at Woolworths, Coles, Metcash/IGA grocers, Aldi, Independent retail stores and vending machines.

Crush injury risk

WorkSafe is urging employers to address the risk of crush injuries in their workplace as new data highlights their dreadful toll on workers.

Eight people died after being crushed in Victorian workplaces last year, while the first workplace fatality of 2023 was a worker crushed between a boom lift and a roof purlin.

WorkSafe accepted 461 claims for crush injuries in 2022 – well in excess of one a day.

Three-quarters (341) of the incidents involved an injury to the hand or wrist.

Manufacturing was the most crush-prone industry, accounting for 127 claims, followed by construction with 87. Male workers aged 20-39 were the most likely to suffer a crush injury, with labourers (81), process workers (29), machine operators (27), motor mechanics (20) and truck drivers (19) their most common occupations.

Last year’s incidents ranged from the ageold hazard of hitting a finger or thumb with a hammer, to the deadly impact of unsafe use of modern machinery. Forklifts, stackers or pallet movers were involved in 38 crush-related injury claims.

Five of the 2022 fatalities involved vehicles, including an auto electrician crushed when the tailgate of a truck collapsed on him, a worker crushed between an excavator and the tailgate of a truck and a telehandler operator crushed when a large steel door frame he was moving fell on him.

n 2022, fines and costs totalling $2,274,284 were imposed by the courts against companies in 39 crush-related WorkSafe prosecutions where workers were killed, injured or put at risk.

Charges against 20 employers for alleged breaches of the Occupational Health and Safety Act that resulted in crush injuries remain before the court and 48 matters are currently being investigated.

A person poses for a photograph as they vape in Melbourne. Picture: AAP/DIEGO FEDELE

Health Minister Mark Butler announced the Federal Government will work with the states and territories to shut down the sale of vapes in stores. Picture: LUKAS COCH/AAP

Supporting your local CFA

By Tyler Wright

The community in Kallista and surrounding towns will be able to help their local volunteer fire brigade before Mother’s Day this year, with Kallista-The Patch Fire Brigade holding a stall with goods for visitors to purchase.

Local produce, jam, chutney and plants including pots of pansies and cyclamens will be available for sale on Saturday 13 May from 9am until 1pm outside the Kallista General Store.

“We as a brigade are struggling financially and as a consequence we are looking at ‘what can we do to make it work?’,” firefighter Leo van Alphen said.

“Our response area covers Sherbrooke, Kallista and The Patch.

“We came up with one idea...’what about putting a stall in front of the general grocery store?”

The first market, held in March, was a “tremendous success” according to Mr van Alphen, with $700 raised for the brigade.

“We have in the last year put money towards new lighting for our emergency accident response,” he said.

“Now we have got battery operated units... it makes it safer for us, and makes it a lot less demanding on the people who have to start it.”

Mr van Alphen said the next step will be

to extend the brigade’s building on KallistaEmerald Road, to create a separate space for members’ overalls and operational gear.

“Our overalls and all our gear’s in the engine bay, the trucks are fairly old, all 25 years plus, and the diesel fumes get sprayed into the overalls.”

Mr van Alphen said the recent closure of the Kallista Community House - which in previous years ran a popular village market - has made it difficult to build a relationship with the community.

“It was fantastic for us to talk to the people, especially prior to the fire season and get brochures out,” he said.

“People that came into the area would ask us ‘what do we have to do to make our house safe?’

“We have a service where we go to the new residents and talk about taking wood away from your house, or cutting back the overhanging branches over your house.”

A raffle for a hamper valued at approximately $300 - made up of items donated from local businesses - will be drawn at 12.30pm on the day of the market stall.

Raffle tickets are available from The Patch Store and the Kallista General Store.

The Kallista General Store is located on Monbulk Road.

Belgrave Heights family escapes fire, highlights alarms

By Tyler Wright

Locals are being reminded to ensure their fire alarms are in working condition after a house fire nearly destroyed a Belgrave Heights home last month.

At around 4am on 3 April, husband and father-of-two, homeowner Sean Wilkeson, awoke to falling objects, with smoke alarms alerting his family to a fire that entered their home from outside while they slept.

“I ran down the house and when I first saw the fire through the doorway, you have all these thoughts, ‘what can I do?’ can I put the fire out? and very quickly I realised that it was out of control, there’s nothing I could do,” Mr Wilkeson said.

It’s believed a short circuit in an outdoor fridge outside the kitchen caused the blaze which gutted around 30 per cent of the family home.

“My wife rang triple zero. And at that time I was thinking I perhaps could go back into the fire area in the kitchen and try to retrieve my wallet, my keys and so on, but I realised I couldn’t get into that area again,” Mr Wilkeson said.

“The fire had taken hold, the smoke was too thick, so then we got out and the CFA responded very quickly. Many of them are here today and they’re our neighbours and friends, and they were here and did a remarkable job in saving most of our home.

“Our local CFA Captain said if we delayed

that call by just minutes, we would have lost everything.”

Belgave Heights & South Fire Brigade Captain Sean Grondman said MrWilkenson’s actions, alongside those of his family were “spot on” during the fire.

“He was alerted to the fire, got the family out and called triple zero straight away, which we believe was a strong contributor to saving the property,” Mr Grondman said.

On Monday 8 May, the CFA announced the renewal of its fire alarm campaign ahead of colder winter months and snowfall across the Alps over the weekend.

“The message today is about our cam-

paign around bedroom essentials, and that is that having working smoke alarms in bedrooms and in living areas in our houses will give our families the greatest chance of being alerted to a fire and give us the greatest chance of them getting out safely,” CFA Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook said.

“A lot of home heating systems, clothes dryers, all of those things that we do when the winter months are with us will see an increase in fires in households,” Mr Cook said.

“Having working smoke alarms in your house will give you the greatest chance of being alerted should something go wrong.”

Mr Cook said while 72 per cent of fire fatalities occur in bedrooms and living areas, only 17 percent of the state’s households have working smoke alarms installed in bedrooms and living areas.

“For as little as $17, you can buy a smoke detector, install it in those living and bedroom areas, and give you and your family the greatest chance of survival.”

Fire Rescue Victoria’s Assistant Chief Fire Officer of Community Resilience Darren McQuade said new technologies - including electrical batteries - are an emerging risk for the fire response agency.

“Unfortunately, on average, 18 people die in Victoria from preventable house fires every year, which is a significant number, and it’s a number that’s not decreasing,” Mr McQuade said.

“Smoke alarm campaigns are really im-

portant, because even though it’s mandatory to have smoke alarms in your home, not everyone has them.

“We know that children under 10 years of age are unlikely to wake up from a working smoke alarm, so it’s best to have smoke alarms interconnected in every bedroom so parents can wake up and evacuate their family safely.”

Currently rebuilding their home, Mr WIlkeson said there will be a connected smoke alarm system installed - including one in the kitchen roof space.

“You can see that the roof is decimated and that’s going to have to come off and be rebuilt,” he said.

“Having lived this experience and watching our house become uninhabitable, I can’t stress enough how worthwhile checking and testing your smoke alarms can be. I had just changed one of our batteries and I’m so thankful I did.”

Fire services recommend the use of smoke alarms powered by a 10-year long life battery, and advise cleaning smoke alarms cleaned at least once a year.

Under legislation which came into effect on 29 March 2021, rental providers must ensure any smoke alarm is correctly installed in working condition and any smoke alarm is tested at least once every 12 months, among other requirements.

For more information visit the CFA website and FRV website.

Belgrave Heights homeowner Sean Wilkeson in the kitchen of his damaged property after a house fire in early April.Picture: TYLER WRIGHT

Kallista-The Patch Fire Brigade members Ralph Ross, Leo van Alphen and Carla van Alphen at the brigade’s market stall outside the Kallista General Store in March. Picture: SUPPLIED

First trees in the ground

By Parker McKenzie

The first of over 650,000 plants that will surround a 1.6km section of Blind Creek have been planted on Friday 5 May, as a part of a jointly funded $18 million reimaging project funded by Melbourne Water, the state government and Knox City Council.

Blind Creek spans three suburbs — Ferntree Gully, Boronia and Wantirna South — and the reimagining plans to convert 1.65km of underground drainage, from Scoresby Road to Lewis Park, into a natural waterway.

Minister for Water Harriet Shing, Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor and Knox City Counsellor Sorina Grasso were on hand at Blind Creek to plant the first trees, alongside workers from Melbourne Water and Knox City Council CEO Bruce Dobson.

Ms Shing thanked Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders or emerging leaders working on revitalising and managing creeks in Victoria.

“As the area grows and expands, livability is at the heart of what we’re doing, but the way that we get there is through an extraordinary collective effort in natural resource management,” Ms Shing said.

“This is about making sure that we open up channels like Blind Creek that have previously been underestimated, hidden from view and not allowed to realize their full potential.”

The project was funded via $12 million from MelbourneWater, $3.5 million from Knox City Council and $2.5 million and construction started in early 2023.

Mr Taylor said projects like the one at Blind Creek are amazing for the community and it’s great to have them supported by the State Government.

“Can we just take a moment to hear that, it’s the first time we’ve heard that noise here in many years and it is absolutely wonderful,” he said, referring to the sound of the running water at the creek.

“This is some of the most exciting stuff that I’ve had the great opportunity and privilege of working on as a local member of Parliament

and also previously in my time as a local councillor.”

He said the project spans three suburbs and the local community is equally as excited about the project as he is.

“Nearly 700,000 plants are going into the ground, nearly 2000 trees, boardwalks, stepping stones and all these fantastic elements for people to interact with their waterways,” Mr Taylor said.

“I’ve been a proud advocate for this project and I will always advocate for important projects like this to naturalize our waterways.”

Stage one of the project which includes returning Blind Creek to a natural creek, creating wetlands for water quality treatment and habitat, and improving access and connectivity

with boardwalks is expected to be completed by next year.

Ms Grasso said she was proud of Knox City Council’s $3.5 million contribution to the project.

“It is a partnership, like all great projects are, and should be due for completion very soon, I’m excited to tell you,” she said.

“Main construction in mid-2024, with minor works to be completed in 2025.”

Another section of Blind Creek, from Manuka Drive to Scoresby Road, was completed in 2020.

Stage two of the project will focus on community amnesties in the area surrounding Blind Creek and Lewis Park.

Cire Community School to launch at Monbulk site

By Parker McKenzie

After acquiring the former school grounds of Mountain District Christian School earlier this year, Cire Services will add to its community schools in Yarra Junction, Mount Evelyn and Lilydale starting in 2024.

Cire Services is a not-for-profit and registered charity founded in the Yarra Ranges as the Upper Yarra Community House in 1976 and offers community schooling for at-risk youth, training, early learning and community outreach services.

Cire Services CEO Gus Seremetis told the Star Mail the opportunity to acquire the new campus, located at 325 Macclesfield Road Monbulk, arose in late 2022.

“We went through the process of liaising with the agents and our understanding was that it was going to go out as an expression of interest,” she said.

“It’s an amazing opportunity. 17 and a half acres gives our students the opportunity to have experiences they couldn’t before and our other campuses don’t have access to a lot of the resources or the facilities that are there.”

Those facilities include a full-sized oval, an indoor sports stadium and gymnasium, a stage, an internal canteen, a science room and a library.

Ms Seremetis said other campuses at Lilydale, Mt Evelyn and Berwick are currently at capacity and have waiting lists.

“This actually addresses a huge need in the community and surrounding areas,” she said.

“We’ve had a lot of support from key stakeholders including Yarra Ranges council. We’ve also had enormous support from Mountain District Christian School and they’ve been helpful and supportive, and they’re glad it is staying in the community.”

Mountain District Christian School oper-

ated for 43 years, however, financial difficulties led to the school announcing its closure in October 2022.

Ms Seremetis said when the community school launches for term one in 2024, it will be Cire Service’s first to offer schooling for prep to year 12.

“The model will stay the same as what we currently have now: We will we have on average around 15 students per class and we have two educators in each class,” she said.

“We run differently from your traditional

models, there’s a lot of support for the kids at various levels but it will also allow us to do a lot of other activities that we’ve normally had to go external for.”

Cire Community Schools currently have around 360 students across its four campuses, where it offers co-educational schooling catering to young people who have or are at risk of disengaging from their education and require an alternative to mainstream schooling.

Ms Seremetis said there has been a lot of support and interest from the local commu-

nity since the acquisition was announced.

“You could open a school like ours in almost every suburb and you would be at capacity,” she said.

“A lot of kids struggle with mainstream, so we’re an alternative. It doesn’t suit every student but it suits a lot of students, we’re really pleased that we’re in a position to be able to offer this.”

For information about Cire Services and their community schools can be found at cire.org.au

Cire Community School’s leadership team at the former Mountain District Christian School ground. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Facilities include a full-sized oval, an indoor sports stadium and gymnasium, a stage, an internal canteen, a science room and a library.

A 1.65km section of Blind Creek is being ‘naturalised’.

Water Minister Harriet Shing, Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor, Knox City Counsellor Sorina Grasso, Knox City CEO Bruce Dobson and Melbourne Water workers at Blind Creek. Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE

Road review sparks fears

By Mikayla van Loon

A review into some of the country’s biggest infrastructure projects has been ordered by the Federal government with the potential to include the proposed Canterbury Road works.

Upgrades to the Montrose end of the major thoroughfare were committed in 2016 with $20 million of funding approved by the then Coalition government.

Widening of Canterbury Road and a new signalised intersection in Montrose was on the cards as part of the upgrade.

Infrastructure Minister Catherine King announced the 90-day review of the Infrastructure Investment Program on Monday 1 May, stating it would allow the government the opportunity to reassess how best to deliver the projects in the pipeline.

“A properly functioning infrastructure investment pipeline means projects can be delivered with more confidence about timeframes and budgets,” she said.

“Easing the pressure on the construction sector will help drive inflation lower and deliver more predictable investment and delivery

outcomes from governments.”

Australia’s infrastructure pipeline is worth $120 billion and has 738 projects, 162 of which have a government commitment of $5 million or less, compared with 146 when Labor was last in government 10 years ago.

Ms King claims the Coalition government over-promised and under-delivered in what she termed “press release projects”, something that “clogged pipeline has caused delays and overruns in important, nation building projects”.

The Department of Infrastructure would not confirm which projects have been included in the review.

Casey MP Aaron Violi has written to Ms King asking for clarification on which section of Canterbury Road may be reviewed, with multiple projects totalling $44.5 million meant to be completed.

Concerned that further road funding cuts to the Yarra Ranges region could come within this review, Mr Violi has pleaded with the Federal government to refrain from imparting another blow.

“The government has a track record of cutting vital road funding from our community, and I’m deeply concerned that the Canterbury Road upgrade could be next on Labor’s chopping block,” he said.

In the 2022/23 budget, the Federal government made $1 billion worth of cuts to infrastructure funding, including the Roads for Community program, a road sealing initiative through Yarra Ranges Council.

Knowing the high traffic movement on Canterbury Road, MrVioli said it would be detrimental to pull funding from an upgrade particularly in Montrose.

“We’ve all been there, sitting in slow-moving traffic trying to get through the Montrose roundabout. It’s the nightly ritual for so many residents of the Yarra Ranges and Outer East who use this road to commute for work and leisure,” he said.

“It would be absolutely devastating to see the Canterbury Road upgrade for Montrose cut or pulled completely by the Albanese Labor Government, particularly given it was slated to start just months from now.”

Ms King confirmed projects already under

construction would continue as planned but all other projects would be assessed by the independent panel led by Reece Waldock AM, Clare Gardiner-Barnes and Mike Mrdak AO.

“This process will allow all levels of government time to consider the projects that are actual priorities and assess their cost and deliverability in the current climate,” Monday’s statement said.

“Australia should have a pipeline of land transport infrastructure projects that are genuinely nation-building, economically sustainable and resilient to our changing climate.”

Ms King said the review hopes to understand how communities can benefit from “shorter and safer travel, more liveable cities, suburbs and regions” while the economy recovers.

Mr Violi has called for the government to think of the long term impacts of road funding cuts in the Casey electorate.

“I’m calling on the Labor Government to stop axing vital road upgrades in our community. Pulling these critical projects will only result in more gridlock, unsafe roads and less time at home with family at the end of the day.”

Chestnut Festival makes welcome return to Kalorama

The Kalorama Chestnut Festival was held on Sunday 7 May, giving locals and visitors the chance to enjoy food stalls, local craft products, like music and of course chestnutthemed foods and activities.

The volunteer-ran festival, which is a joint fundraiser for Mt Dandenong Primary School and Mt Dandenong Kindergarten, has been running for over 30 years.

After Mt Dandenong Preschool was damaged during the June 2021 storm, it was forced to move to a temporary facility while a new preschool is being built on the Primary School’s grounds.

The festival is supported by local businesses and is held at the Kalorama Oval. Other stalls on the day included poffertjes, homemade cakes, sausage sizzles, stalls from local restaurants, mulled wine, coffee, tea and chai, and local produce.

For more information on the chestnut festival, visit chestnutfestival.org.au/site

The festival is a regular fixture on the calendar.

Pictures: TANYA STEELE

A large crowd gathered to attend the festival.

Patrons enjoyed roasted chestnuts and other market stalls.

Two dogs enjoying the festivities.

School sustainability stars

By Parker McKenzie

Students and a teacher at Monbulk Primary School have been nominated as finalists for the 2023 ResourceSmart Schools Awards for their commitment to taking sustainable action.

Danielle Lamport was nominated for Teacher of the Year and last year’s grade 6 students, who have now moved onto high school, were nominated as a Student Action Team.

Ms Lamport said she was inspired by a former principal, who had moved to Monbulk Primary from a “five-star school.”

“She said this is what we used to do, what do you think of this? I said, this would be really great because I’d started and got a grant for the Stephanie Alexander kitchen garden for our school,” she said.

“I established the kitchen garden and it was just a really natural progression from doing that and running those classes as well as regular classroom teaching, to then becoming more sustainable.”

Sustainability Victoria awards schools between one and five stars for completing modules and meeting benchmarks for resource use.

Ms Lamport was nominated for the award by her fellow teacher Emily Tan Sing, who said that Ms Lamport was too humble about the achievement.

“As a school, we’ve gone from one star to nearly getting the fifth star and a lot of that work is really on Danny’s shoulders,” she said. “She would never really acknowledge that

she puts in all this effort, she’d always say it is a team and everyone helps but in reality, it would never have started if she didn’t take that step to think this was something good for our school.”

23 schools and 35 finalists were nominated for an award at Victoria’s largest celebration

for primary and secondary school students, teachers and volunteers taking action to promote sustainability.

Ms Lamport said the most rewarding part of the school’s dual nominations was seeing students who were passionate about sustainability taking action on their own accord.

“They took that upon themselves to do that, so they’re thinking what can we do that isn’t guided by Emily or myself?” she said.

“We were on board, backing them all the way and it was really wonderful. They just carried it the whole way, so that’s why they’re shortlisted.”

The winners of the awards will be announced at a ceremony at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on 15 June.

Ms Lamport said looking at the monetary value, the school has saved “$60,000 that would have gone to utility bills” since becoming a resource-smart school.

“We’re hoping to mentor other schools, have school students and teachers come in and see what we’re doing and help them to become sustainable schools as well.

“I just wanted to acknowledge the work of quite a few other teachers who have come on board and worked very hard on this as well.”

Ms Tan Sing said Ms Lamport was such a leader that even if she retires or moves school, she wants Monbulk Primary School to continue what she started.

“She wants it to be part of the whole school culture and not something that would live and die with her as well,” she said.

“She is due her honours as well, but I can understand where she’s coming from with it, not wanting to be just to acknowledge the other people who definitely put in.”

More information can be found at sustainability.vic.gov.au/resourcesmart-schoolsawards

Clean Up The Basin project unites young and old

By Parker McKenzie

Clean Up Australia Day events are a chance for people from all walks of life to come together and make a difference in their local community.

That is exactly what happened when 17 people joined to clean up The Basin on Sunday 30 April, including teenagers, parents and even a foreign exchange student.

AndreaVrek and her son Hudson were two of the people who attended the event.

Hudson said he didn’t originally think the event would be fun but had a great time.

“Since Australia has many animals, we need to look after them all,” he said.

“There was one area where there were 60 or 70 bottles of alcohol that were already empty, and lots by the bus stop as well.”

Clean Up Australia, a not-for-profit, has been sponsoring and organising yearly Clean Up Australia Day events since 1990.

Ms Vrek said when she saw the event on Facebook, she invited her sister and a good friend.

“We made it a really fun time because we invited other people we knew we would have

fun doing it with,” she said.

“This will be an annual event in The Basin and we’d love for more people to come.”

She said while the event was an opportunity to help out, it’s important to remember to look after the environment every day.

“We often pick up rubbish when we are out walking, it’s just part of our daily practice,” Ms Vrek said.

“If we are at the supermarket shopping centre and there is rubbish, we’ll stop and pick it up and store it in the car until we find a bin.”

When Clean Up events are organised, often local councils — including Yarra Ranges and Knox — will liaise with the organisers to come to remove the rubbish once it has been collected together.

and much more.

Mr Vrek said while there is hard rubbish collection in Knox, it was disappointing to see people dispose of large items like tyres into nature.

“They cost a little bit of money to dispose of but for the most part, it’s just laziness,” Ms Vrek said.

“You could see the pride on Hudson’s face from just helping out as well.”

The young people involved found tyres, bottles

17 people turned out to help Clean Up The Basin.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Monbulk Primary School teachers Danielle Lamport and Emily Tan Sing.

Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE

Emerald Ladies Probus Club celebrates its 35th

By Parker McKenzie

The Emerald Ladies Probus Club will be celebrating 35 years of existence this May, offering a place for retired women to meet for “friendship, fellowship, fun” and almost as importantly: “Food.”

The Star Mail caught up with the Probus Club at Proserpina Bakehouse in Ferny Creek on Wednesday 3 May, where members were taking part in their regular meetup at rotating cafes and spots throughout the Dandenong Ranges.

Emerald Ladies Probus Club President Anne Simpson said she has been a member of the club for 22 years and has made some of her best friends through it.

“It’s about retired women getting together for companionship, friendship and having a bit of fun,” she said.

“It’s no risk, getting together for a chat and listening to new speakers at monthly meetings because you never stop learning.”

Founded in 1988 by the Emerald Rotary Club, the club has continued to offer a place for retired women to socialise for 35 years.

Sue Hornby said after retiring, she was invited by a friend to attend.

“I just clicked with the people involved and we ended up doing a lot of things together,” she said.

“You get to talk to different people and you quickly learn what their interests and capabilities are.”

The Probus Club has 41 members and meets monthly alongside regular catch-ups for coffee and lunch.

Ms Simpson said after retiring, often your social life will dwindle and it can be difficult to make new friends.

“We had eight new members join last year as they retire,” she said.

“It’s just getting the word out there and letting people know that we exist.”

Members don’t just come from Emerald either, with some coming from other parts of the Dandenongs, Croydon and Pakenham.

Ms Hornby said connecting with other people in the community is an important aspect of the club.

“In January we went around the table and just had a quick chat about how many children everyone has had, what their backgrounds were and got to know each other better,” she said.

People are very shy now, you can’t push them, but it was nice to get

to know everybody. At the Club’s general meeting on Monday 15 May at 10am, The Emerald Rotary Club President Marcus Adams will present a ticket to congratulate the club on its 35th year.

Ms Simpson said while the club was originally created to support retiring Rotarians, most of the members haven’t followed that path.

“A lot of people think we’re in fundraising

because historically, members were retired Rotarians,” she said.

“You can look at everyone around this table, that’s what it is all about. Coffee and cake, the motto is the three Fs: Friendship, Fellowship and fun, but we added a fourth one: Food.”

The Emerald Ladies Probus Club can be contacted at ladiesprobusclubemerald@ gmail.com.

The volunteering spine

Volunteering is the backbone of our communities, with around two million, or 42.1 per cent, ofVictorians over the age of 15 volunteering time and skills and contributing around 58.1 billion dollars per year to the Victorian economy. From food banks to animal shelters, volunteers play an essential role in the success and sustainability of our local community organisations. But what is it that motivates people to give their time and energy to others without expecting anything in return?

Kim Boswell is the Lead Trainer and Facilitator atThe Forever Agenda, a local consulting, facilitation and training service that supports not-for-profit organisations and their committees and boards to increase their income, reach and impact in their local communities.

Kim said the research shows that the reasons people choose to volunteer are varied and complex. Some individuals volunteer to give back to their community, while others do it to gain new skills or experiences, perhaps even to build their resumes.

For some, volunteering is a way to connect with others and build relationships, while for others, it is a way to make a positive impact on society. Whatever the individual reason, it is clear that volunteering benefits both the volunteer and the community as a whole.

“Volunteering can have a positive impact on an individual’s mental and physical health. Studies have shown that volunteering can reduce stress and anxiety, increase happiness, and even improve heart health. Additionally, volunteering provides a sense of purpose and fulfilment, which can be particularly beneficial for those who may be struggling with isolation, disconnection, or depression. It is a powerful experience to give and one that is proven to have far-reaching and long-term benefits”, Kim said.

These benefits of volunteering extend beyond the individual and into the community. Volunteers provide essential services and

support to organisations that rarely have the resources to operate without them. They also help to create a sense of community and connectedness that can be difficult to achieve otherwise.

So, what can you do to get involved in volunteering in your community? There are countless opportunities available, and many organisations are in desperate need of volunteers. Whether you have a few hours a week or a few hours a month to spare, there is a volunteer opportunity that can fit into your sched-

ule and align with your interests and requirements. These days there is also a wide variety of ways to engage in volunteering from remote skills-based roles to committee and governance roles and creative and hands-on roles there really is something to suit everyone.

To celebrate National Volunteering Week this year (15 - 21 May) Eastern Dandenong Ranges Association (EDRA) is hosting a volunteering expo at the Hills Hub, 400 BelgraveGembrook Road in Emerald on 20 May from 10am to 4pm. The expo will showcase the

incredible work happening in community organisations and will feature over 20 local organisations that are achieving huge outcomes for the local community.

This year National Volunteer Week is running the “We are the Change Makers” campaign, celebrating the powerful impact volunteers make supporting individuals, communities and the nation. Together, we can strengthen our community and create a brighter future for us all.

FriendsoftheHelmetedHoneyeatervolunteers.

Picture:SUPPLIED

MembersoftheEmeraldLadiesProbusClubatProserpinaBakehouseinFernyCreek.

Picture:PARKERMCKENZIE

Reconnecting with work

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 options.

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

The Mountain District Learning Centre is running specialised program for parents wanting to learn again. Picture: ON FILE

Time to wash the doonas

Getting ready for winter, or an annual wash, we will help bust those bills with Ozone being complimentary for the remaining month of May 2023.

What is Ozone wash?

Monbulk’s Enviro Laundromat covers all your household washing needs with the Ozone system as an optional extra.

The Ozone system uses electricity and oxygen to produce the most powerful antiviral disinfectant available for laundry technology according to Enviro owner, Carl.

It is a powerful oxidant, destroying all viruses, bacteria, chemicals and pesticides, says Carl.

“Ozone is more powerful to disinfect than using a bleaching agent and is exceptional at eliminating odours. It provides the best of fabric care for delicate items and vibrant colours whilst greatly reducing the environmental impact with no chemical residue”

It meets the Australian Disinfection Protocol Standard AS4146/200.

“Ozone is a great consideration for all washes but especially for Doonas and those delicate items that can only be washed in cold water such as wool, you will get the same result from a bacterial point of view as if it were washed in hot water”

There is an additional charge of $2 when selecting the ‘Optional Ozone Wash’ but for the remaining month of May 2023 the Ozone selection will be complimentary! We want you to try it and encourage a healthy home, what a great opportunity to give you Doona a wash. Ozone is available in all washing machines. Simply select the Ozone wash and in the payment section and on the machine.

Put in code: OZONE - for the $2 discount to be credited for Ozone wash

This code will only work in the EFT payment tablet.

WHY WASH YOUR DOONA?

Most people are quite diligent when it comes to washing their sheets once a week and airing their mattress, but how often are you washing your Doona?

The humble Doona is a breeding ground for dust mites and bacteria, as well as collecting sweat and skin cells from us in our sleep. Considering we spend up to 35 per cent of our lives in bed, that’s a whole lot of organic matter.

A Doona that hasn’t been washed for a year is likely to be home to more than 20,000 dust mites.

There are a few schools of thought when it comes to how regularly you should be cleaning your Doona. The general consensus is that Doona’s should be washed every two to three months, or at least twice a year.

Synthetic fibre Doona’s should be washed in a large machine on a normal spin cycle at

60 degrees Celsius (This is the Hot setting on our Machines), or as high as the care label suggests.

Dry in the tumble dryer, or in direct sunlight outside.

Always Check the washing label on your Doona for is suggested clean some can only be dry cleaned.

Enviro’s machines offer an exceptional wash in a clean, safe setting. There are multiple Huebsch washing machines ranging from 9Kg through to 27Kg meaning customers can take care of a week’s washing in 25 minutes.

Costs

· 9Kg or 2 basket capacity - $6

· 13.6Kg or 3 basket capacity - $9

· 18Kg or 4 basket capacity - $12 (use this machine for Queen or Double Doonas)

· 27Kg or 6 basket capacity - $15 (use this machine for Super King Doonas or 2 Singles)

· Ample 14Kg and 20Kg dryers. A typical load of clothing in the dryer will take between 30-

35 mins to dry. A typical Doona will take between 40-60 mins to dry.

· 14Kg dryers are $1 for 7 mins

· 20Kg dryers are $1 for 5 minutes

· Typical Wash and Dry for a Queen Doona is a Total of $22

We recommend drying your doona, it’s always your choice to hang out or tumble dry but only a tumble dryer will bring back its body shape.

We don’t restrict customers from drying only, we welcome all wash or dry or just dry.

“We don’t allow our machines to be used for pet bedding or horse rugs, and we ask all customers to respect this, it’s a health regulation and no one wants to wash their clothes after a pet bed has been in a machine. Our machines are only for your household items, Clothing, Bedding, Curtains, Throw rugs all the way through to accommodating commercial users such as B&B’s and commercial hotels”

Carl says Enviro Laundromat is committed to a light environmental footprint thanks to economical machines, Ozone, Low water use, Natural Gas hot water and Dryers, LED lighting, biodegradable soap and Solar all help contribute, our timber seating and benches were also repurposed/recycled from a Hotel that was being refurbished. We have brought the very best washing experience to the Dandenong’s.

Operating hours are 6am to 11pm 365 days a year, there is ample parking at the front of the Laundromat and customers have a range of convenient payment options, Cash, Credit Card, Apple Pay, Debit Master Cards.

Find Enviro Laundromat in theWoolworths car park right between Edison Bakery and Empire coffee. The actual address is Shop 4, 37-39 Main Road, Monbulk. Follow Enviro on facebook for promotions and special offers.

Enviro Laundromat has a special offer throughout April to help get doonas washed this autumn. 243060

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Bowl mum over at Monbulk

Looking for the ultimate venue that will satisfy all your cravings? Look no further than Monbulk Bowling Club! With mouth-watering cuisine and exceptional customer service, this place is a paradise for foodies.

But that’s not all! The bowling club also offers weekly specials and fantastic drink prices that will make your heart skip a beat. Wednesdays are a local favorite with their scrumptious chicken parmas served with chips and salad

for only $19, and on Sundays, kids eat for free with the purchase of a main meal. Plus, all-day, every day, selected schooners of beer are available for only $7.

Make Mother’s Day extra special by taking her to Monbulk Bowling Club for a sumptuous lunch. All mums get a complimentary drink on arrival and a chance to win a Mother’s Day prize. So, hurry and book your spot before it’s too late.

Open Door Community Care

Struggling to find a perfect gift for someone special? Don’t worry; the bowling club offers gift vouchers ranging from $25-$100. How amazing is that!

But wait, there’s more! Monbulk Bowling Club has two synthetic greens, which makes it the perfect spot for Barefoot Bowls gatherings. For just $10 per person, you can use their top-of-the-line bowling equipment and get expert guidance from experienced bowlers. Book

in advance to secure your spot, especially for Thursday nights, which are becoming increasingly popular for Barefoot Bowls.

Located just behind Woolworths at 11 Moores Road in Monbulk, Monbulk Bowling Club is an absolute must-visit venue. Stay upto-date with their latest news and events by following them on Facebook and Instagram. To book a table, give them a call on 9756 6183.

Reduce your power bills

Monbulk Bowling staff Lee and Skye hope to help you celebrate Mother’s Day. 331071 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS Choose from a range of delicious meals. 33107

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Strum a uke at Hills Fest

By Parker McKenzie

Emerald Primary School will become the stage for the Hills Ukulele Festival on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 May, featuring international guests, local artists and workshops for the local community to take part in.

Festival organizer Dan MacEoin said the first Ukulele Festival was held in 2018 after he was inspired by his students.

“I’m the music teacher at Emerald Primary School and for a number of years I was using the ukulele in the classroom room as a teaching tool and a fun way of bringing music to life,” he said.

“The kids who really enjoyed it, they wanted more. We had some afternoon after-school lessons and they got so good they wanted to create a band, so here we go with the Emerald Primary School Ukulele orchestra.”

He said after forming the Ukulele Orchestra, he decided to create a Ukulele Festival to ensure they had a place to perform.

“This year we’ve got 35 groups performing at the festival across three stages, we convert the school into a festival extravaganza,” he said.

“The three stages go nonstop from 10am in the morning till 6pm at night on Sunday 21 May, which is a completely free event.”

On Saturday 20 May, attendees will be required to buy a $25 ticket to attend the con-

certs or a $70 ticket to take part in the workshops, however, all concerts and events on Sunday 21 May are free.

Mr MacEoin said the headliner for the concert is RIO, who is being flown in from Japan.

“He’ll be taking a workshop during the Saturday as well, one of nine workshops on the day,” he said.

“It’s jam-packed with amazing opportunities for people to come along and go, that’s exactly the workshop I wanted.”

Other headliners include Duplicity, Green Fieldz, Karin Udovenya, Sam Lemann, Jane Cameron, Awkward Strangers, Morgana Cree-

ly, Yanai Morris and Mr MacEoin himself.

He said on Sunday 21 May at 12pm, there will be a free workshop for kids run by Yanai Morris.

“He is an incredible musician and a really talented teacher who gets beginners feeling confident and feeling like they can take on the world with the Ukulele,” Mr MacEoin said.

“The most common feedback I receive is they love the community feel and how welcoming everyone is made to feel when they arrive.”

Mr MacEoin said on Sunday 28 May, an International Hills Festival will be live-streamed.

“In 2020, we all went into lockdown and we’d organized a live festival and had a month to turn into an online one,” he said.

“The ukulele world became a very small place, and we all connected and we had artists sending in their videos. We didn’t want to say goodbye to all our friends, so we’ll be taking the highlights from the live festival and adding the videos people have sent in from Italy, Spain, the USA, the UK, Indonesia, France and the rest of Australia.”

For more information on the 2023 Hills Ukulele Festival, visit hillsukulelefestival.au

Mythology and creatures abound at YAVA Gallery

By Tanya Steele

The YAVA Gallery opened a new exhibition on 4 May that is filled with wonder and delight, inviting people to explore a stunning curation of mediums.

The exhibition is headed with sculpture work by Nerissa Box and a curated selection by over 20 YAVA artists and holds the eyes captive within a mystical space. Tecoma artist Box brings a dedicated and anatomically fantastic feel to her sculptures and presents two very different styles within her work.

“I’m obsessed with anatomy and creatures, I have always been interested in it,” she said.

The sculpture Icarus was created with a bronze powder coated and is a cold cast statue that invites the eye to wander over the fine details of the Greek mythology figures’ wings.

“I really wanted to extend myself as a sculptor and I chose to create the sculpture before Icarus takes flight,” she said.

Box’s work ranges from hyperrealistic to fantastical creatures, inspired by movies like ET, Labyrinth and the Muppets.

Box said that using found objects within these pieces has sparked a creative pathway for the creatures, which helped to give

them a narrative.

Her little creatures range in size and all have an agenda, some are either happy being where they are or are on the move.

“You’ve got Sparky is trying to Oxy his way out and you’ve got Slick who’s trying to lick her way out, I had a whole bunch of all these different characters,” she said.

Box began her career through scenery but jumped to prop work because she loved anatomy so much.

“A theatre camp in the States really triggered my interest in sculpture and props,’ she said.

“I did work experience on Jim Henson’s Creature Shop on a show called Farscape.”

The theme of the exhibition has allowed for the artists to share the mystical and fantastic themes that they have within their art forms.

Box said that having the platform to present her work alongside the other YAVA artists is an asset.

“There’s not necessarily exhibitions that focus on fairytale fantasy myths,” she said.

Vanessa Flynn, YAVA Gallery Manager is excited about the group show and said the curated exhibit will work across a range of

mediums that tie in with the theme.

“You’ve got your light and your dark dreams and mythological creatures,” she said.

Ms Flynn said she is glad to have a wonderful team of volunteers on board, which helps greatly when preparing for the exhibition, from installation to lighting.

“Lynn Baxter worked on the installation across the two full days with us and we couldn’t do it without them,” she said.

The exhibition will run at the YAVA gallery until 11 June.

From Left: Vanessa, Gallery Manager, Nerissa Box, Artist and Lynn, Volunteer.

Pictures: TANYA STEELE Fantasy creatures great and small are currently residing at YAVA.

The Yarra Yukers performing at a previous festival. Picture: SUPPLIED

Making the east better

The state of Jackson Taylor

affairs

Firstly, if you haven’t already, make sure you claim your households $250 Power Saving Bonus in the new round which opened on 24 March. Just head to the Victorian Government’s Energy Compare website to see if you can get a better deal – you don’t even need to swap to claim the bonus. TheVictorian Energy Compare website holds power companies to account and makes sure your household is keeping more money in their pocket.

Locally, we are getting on with making the Alchester Village Roundabout intersection in Boronia safer by fully signalising it, adding more lanes at the intersection and providing safer crossings. Early service works are now complete. Detailed final designs are due to be complete this month with major construction starting later in the year.

A great new cricket net facility for Ferntree Gully Cricket Club and the community is now open and is one of five new nets I’m proud to have delivered (or be delivering) across Knox with new nets also now open at Miller Reserve in Boronia with three others underway across Knox.

The frames are up on the major works at Boronia West Primary School, where over $4 million to create a new central learning hub and is part of over $90 million in school infrastructure funding secured over recent years.

In some (very) big news for the East, major works have kicked back up on the North East

Link for 2023 – marking the start of a massive year for Victoria’s largest ever road project. This year will see the completion of Bulleen Park and Ride, contracts awarded for the Ring Road upgrade and the first section of the Eastern Freeway overhaul, and a tender process for the remaining Eastern Freeway upgrades – which will add 45 kilometres of new lanes, saving drivers 11 minutes. This new road will complete the missing piece in the Ring Road and will be a huge benefit to Eastern locals.

We’ve also just announced a 10-cent refund for your used bottles, cans and cartons. Victo-

ria’s Container Deposit Scheme will start on 1 November, and it will: cut litter by up to half, reduce waste, by turning old bottles/cans/cartons into new ones, have more than 600 collection points across our state, the most accessible and convenient network in Australia and I’ll ensure I keep our community updated on its progress.

I also want to take this opportunity to thank Boronia and Bayswater RSL’s who hosted moving Anzac commemorative and dawn services recently to honour our fallen and to remember the sacrifices they made so that we may enjoy the freedoms and liberties we have today.

I also want to acknowledge Wantirna College, Boronia K-12 and Boronia Rotary who also held wonderful services to mark the day.

I also want to acknowledge Ian Benier, a veteran and Knox Local who spoke at Wantirna College’s service about what Anzac means to him and his over 20 years of service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF). His service took him across the globe. Ian’s two sons have carried on the tradition and have served in the ADF proudly. We thank Ian, his sons and every person who defends our nation and its rights and liberties.

Needlocalstaff? Thengiveusthejob...

Veteran Ian Benier with Jackson Taylor after his speech at Wantirna College.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Bayswater MP

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

No. 5836 26 7 726

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Fraudulent schemes (5)

4 Traditional (9)

9 Reason (5)

4 Give way (4)

5 Extremely greedy (10)

6 Moodily (7)

7 Traditions (7)

8 Unlikely winner (4,4)

one’s

918 71 2 8579

10 Gluttony or sloth for instance (6,3)

11 Famous people (6)

12 Guests (8)

14 Brotherhood (10)

15 Savoury cracker biscuit (3)

17 French word for “me” (3)

19 Synchronous (10)

23 Asset (8)

24 A spice (6)

26 Antiquated US car manufacturer (9)

27 Confuse (5)

28 Heights (9)

29 Dollars (colloq) (5)

DOWN

1 Pick (6)

2 Sharp-cornered (7)

3 Old type of trombone (7)

21

easy 25 36 2 475 3 63 94

DECODER WORDFIT

41 54 6518

7164 84 87

hard

medium 72 48 6 92 41

34 637 1 46 2

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9-LETTER WORD

9 words: Good

14 words: Very good

19 words: Excellent Today’s

F

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fine, finite, genii, gibe, ignite, tent, tine, tinge

feint,

Aim: 3 LETTERS ACE ADD ARM AVO BEE DNA EBB FEE HAS HIP IRE KIN NIT PEN PRO ROD ROE ROT RUB SAP SEA SHE UTE WIT 4 LETTERS ANON BEGS EBBS KERB MEEK NOOK POST SAWS SENT SICS SNOB SNOW STEM WEAR 5 LETTERS ABODE ADOBE ALERT ALIAS APING AREAS AWARE BEGIN BOOED BRASH BRINE CHAFE CIRCA CRUSH DEMON EDGES FENCE GIMME HALON HORDE INANE INEPT MEMOS OFTEN OLIVE OUGHT OUTDO REUSE RILED ROGUE SAGAS SEEDS SENDS SENSE SHAME SLEDS SODAS SPOUT STEAL STEAM STEEL TERSE THESE THOUS TILES TRUCE TSARS USERS USUAL WINCE 6 LETTERS CRANES NESTLE REUSES SCREEN 7 LETTERS ALTERED ENDEARS EROSION GOOIEST GREATER PORTION 8 LETTERS ASSUREDS ATTAINED SAUCEPAN TOBOGGAN 12 345678910111213 1415 1617181920212223242526 O K A Q V E W U Y R B I L Z G C N T X F H D M J S P 12-05-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com 298753461 924178536 861397254 715649382 586934127 459812673 643281795 137526849 372465918 easy medium hard 617958432 831275946 269387514 582743691 926134857 175429368 493612785 754896123 348561279 761245983 415762398 597824631 384679152 629358714 148936527 952183476 873491265 236517849 1 14 7 20 2 15 8 21 3 16 9 22 4 17 10 23 5 18 11 24 6 19 12 25 13 26 JP

befit, BEFITTING, begin, being, bent, betting, binge, bite, bitten, feign,

No. 132

No. 132

No. 132

MOVE IN AND RELAX

THIS immaculately presented and cleverly zoned, brick, 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home is an absolute delight.

There is a welcoming front deck that leads into a bookshelf lined entry. The home then offers an expansive lounge room with split system air conditioner and wood fire heater, that flows through to the modern kitchen with gas stove top, electric oven, and dishwasher. There is a light filled dining room that enjoys private views out onto the rear decking. The master bedroom is luxurious with plush carpet, a split system air-conditioner, ensuite and walk in robe. The further three generous bedrooms all enjoy built-in-robes. Comfort is maintained throughout the home with evaporative ducted cooling, and gas ducted heating.

The sunny entertaining rear deck offers a fantastic place to rest and enjoy the tranquility and views across the private and fully fenced backyard. Or meander down one of two stair cases to wander the flat lawned area or to access the extensive under house storage which has lighting and power.

This home has a septic treatment plant and mains electricity, water and gas. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

ENTERTAINER’S PARADISE

IT’S very much a case of more than meets the eye in this spacious home that just keeps showing you more and more. Every window frames ever-changing garden vistas with seasonal bursts of colour amongst intense greens. No wonder the birds and wildlife love visiting here, there is even a pair of Tawny Frogmouths that are long term residents. The current owners have treasured living here for 40 years and now move on for new adventures, but Menzies Creek will always have a special place in their heart.

The Residence Features:

· 4 bedrooms, the main with luxurious ensuite, private deck and WIR

· Spacious dining area and a lounge room with cathedral ceilings

· Stunning timber kitchen, leadlight windows and a meals area that captures the essence of the home, the indoors welcoming the outdoors to your chairside

· The main family bathroom and laundry are both updated

· An entry foyer and study nook complete the interior

· Gas central heating system, cosy wood heater, plus a split air conditioning unit.

· 6.5 KW solar

Studio/Work from Home?

The studio will be the most ‘Zen’ space you have ever worked in, looking out over the lush garden. You may even choose for this to be a yoga/meditation room. Perfect for artistic pursuits or even a teenagers chill out zone.

Outdoors:

You can be quite self-sufficient here, the

HOME ESSENTIALS

vegetable garden is thriving, there are fruit trees, berries, and many herbs as well.

The setting of this home is hard to put into words, the beautiful gardens, fabulous entertaining options, the courtyard, deck, and spa area, they all come together to create a wonderful place to live.

Also, off-street undercover parking for 2+

Address: 24 Aura Vale Road, MENZIES CREEK Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage

vehicles plus ample space for a caravan, boat, truck and a large utility shed. Location: Menzies Creek is delightful, a great community, supportive and active. There are both senior and primary schools nearby. Puffing Billy chugs through town and is always a comforting sound. Lysterfield

Lake and Cardinia Dam are also close by. Wellington Rd is at the end of the road and takes you into the city in less than an hour (depending on traffic). Both Monash and Eastlink freeways run off Wellington Rd. It’s 10 minutes to both Belgrave and Emerald by car. ●

Price: $1,150,000 - $1,250,000. CLOSING DATE FOR OFFERS 5pm TUESDAY, 17 MAY (UNLESS SOLD PRIOR) Inspect: By appointment

Contact: Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 and Janet Hawkins 0409 117 432, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL - 9754 6111

TICK ALL THE EXTRA BOXES OF ‘HILLS’ LIVING

SPACE for the family, pets, cars, and everything else you need to bring.

This home offers space for everyone and everything, multiple living spaces, including a kitchen meals area, a separate study area off the second living space, family room with a wood fire whilst ducted heating keeps you warm on those cold nights. The home consists of 4 bedrooms (or 3 and a study) including the master with walk through robe to ensuite.

The small loft space is also a great place to hide out or use for storage! Easily entertain with access to the paved area outside from the kitchen/meals area.

HOME ESSENTIALS

Address:

Outside is amazing with a home office/ studio or maybe an extra room for the kids/ teenagers, the shedding is fantastic with a 9m x 9m barn with an extra mezzanine level, 6m x 9.8m garage and a large carport that could potentially house six cars.

Enjoy the low-maintenance gardens and extra garden sheds.

There is so much to love about this house and Cockatoo in general, with its beautiful parks and gardens, fabulous local shops, schools, eateries, sporting clubs and with Emerald only a 7-minute drive away and Melbourne under an hour, you really will want this to be your new home. ●

Contact: Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 and Tay Ting, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL - 9754 6111

STUNNINGHOME&AS/CSTUDIO

TICKSALLTHEBOXES!

Spaceforthefamily,pets,cars,andeverythingelseyouneedtobring!Thishomeoffers multiplelivingspaces,akitchenmealsarea,aseparatestudyareaoffsecondliving area,masterwithwalkthroughrobeandensuite,awood fire,ductedheating,asmall loftspace,pavedareaforentertaining,outsidehomeoffice/studio,9mx9mbarnwitha mezzaninelevel,6mx9.8mgarageandalargecarportthatcouldpotentiallyhousesix cars,low-maintenancegardensandextragardensheds.‘Hills’livingatit’sbest!

Situatedbehindasecuregate&awayfromtheroad,themainresidenceisastunning architecturallydesignedhomethatcapturesamplenatural lightintoitsuniqueopen-style planwhichfeaturesawallofglasslookingoutontoafull-lengthdeck.Includesadouble garage/workshop,landscapedgardenswithvariousfruittrees&vines,alargefenced-off vegetablegarden,chickencoop,watertanks&solarpanelsprovidefreeelectricity.The one-bedroomfullyself-containedunitisidealforextendedfamilyorasarentalpotential.

2780Gembrook-Launching PlaceRoad,Gembrook

GORGEOUS HILLS HOME IN A PRIVATE LOCATION

THIS comfortable, spacious, and charming 2 storey home offers the epitome of Hills living.

Relax and unwind in this cleverly solar passive designed home. With three robed bedrooms and two recently updated bathrooms upstairs, the master with a balcony – the perfect place to relax with your morning coffee and take in the view over the natural bushland. Upstairs there is also a study and a landing where the kids can have their own space for TV or craft. The ground level is all about entertaining and enjoying the sunlit rooms and beautiful, private views from every window with a spacious lounge, big enough to entertain the masses. For year-round comfort and convenience there is toasty under floor heating downstairs and a large wood heater which comfortably heats the whole home in the winter months. Add to all this a well-appointed kitchen, with gas hob cooktop, 2nd toilet downstairs, an open plan dining/meals/family room and exposed rafters and pitched ceilings which all add to this home’s character and warmth.

Outside there is a single+ car port which has been converted to a workshop and can easily be returned to a carport if you desire, 3 garden sheds for storage or hobbies and of course the relaxing crazy paved

outdoor entertaining area, adjacent to the fully compliant and registered spa which is relocatable/removeable if desired. There is also a large wood shed & plentiful wood supply. A bonus is plenty of flat parking for family and friends and an electric gate which can be controlled remotely on your phone. Enjoy the park like surrounds of the home with its fully fenced backyard and terraced garden beds for vegetables/herbs. Enjoy the sounds of nature whilst being minutes from the amenities of Emerald, Avonsleigh and Cockatoo or take a stroll through the private track 100m from the property for a peaceful walk or ride to Emerald Lake Park and through to Emerald for your coffee on Sunday. This home is also close to local primary and secondary schools. With the added bonus of having a brand new modern and efficient heat pump/ water heater recently installed.

This property has it all so don’t miss outcall to arrange a private inspection today. Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office.●

18VistaCourt,Gembrook$750,000-$820,000

Perfecthomeforwalktotownconvenienceandlowmaintenanceliving!

Thisgorgeous3bedroom,2bathroomhomeismoveinready.Withabitumendriveway&DLUGwith entrydoortothehome,thefrontyardislandscaped&lowmaintenance.Themasterbedroomhasa ceilingfan,&WIRaswellasanensuite.ThefurthertwobedroomsbothhaveBIRs.Thekitchenisfully equippedwithalargeislandbench,electricoven,gasstovetop,&stainless-steeldishwasher.Being openplanwiththeloungeroomforseamlessentertaining,&therearetwoslidingdoorsfromthe loungeouttotherearentertainingareaordirectlytothebackyard.Relax&unwindinthelounge roomasyouenjoythewood fireplace,orusethesplitsystemairconditionerorductedgasheating that’spresentthroughoutthehome.Thereisalsoastudyforyourworkfromhomeconvenience.This propertyisashortstrolltoalltheamenitiesofGembrookmainstreet.

CuteasaButtonCottagewithaBigShed&ApprovedPlans&Permitsfora NewBuild!

Thischarmingcottageisfullofpossibilities.Relax&unwindonthefrontverandahasyouenjoythe view.OrstrollintotheCockatootownshiptoenjoytheamenities.Withoveraquarterofanacreof clearedlandtoenjoy,thehomeiscosy,with2goodsizedbedrooms&anopenplankitchen/dining/ livingarea.ThehomehasasplitsystemACforyear-roundcomfort&isconnectedtoallservicesfor convenience.Externallyonthe1167m2blockisadoublecarportadjacenttothehouse&alarge 7mx7mshedwithconcrete floor&7mx3.5mmezzaninetowardsthebackoftheblock.Anadded bonusisasetofapprovedplans&permitsfora2storey,3bedroom,2-bathroomfamilyhomehigher upontheblock.

Movein&relaxwiththisgorgeous4bedroomfamilyhome!

Thisimmaculatelypresentedbrickhomewith4bedrooms,&2bathrooms,offersalargelounge roomwithsplitsystemairconditioner&wood fireheater,thatleadstothemodernkitchen,withgas stovetop,electricoven,&dishwasher.Thereisalight filleddiningroomwithprivateviewsoutonto thereardecking.Themasterbedroomisluxuriouswithplushcarpet,asplitsystemairconditioner, ensuite&WIR.ThefurtherthreebedroomsallenjoyBIRs.Comfortismaintainedthroughoutthehome withevaporativeductedcooling,&gasductedheating.Thesunnyentertainingreardeckoffersa fantasticplacetoenjoythetranquility&viewsacrosstheprivate,fullyfencedbackyard.Withtwo staircasestothe flatlawnedareaortoaccesstheextensiveunderhousestoragewhichhaslighting &power.Thishomehasaseptictreatmentplant&mainselectricity,water&gas.

GorgeousHillsHomeinaPrivateLocation–WalktoEmeraldLake!

Thiscomfortable,spacious,&charming2storeyhomeofferstheepitomeofHillsliving!With3robed bedrooms&2recentlyupdatedbathrooms.Thereisalsoastudy&alandingwherethekidscan havetheirownspace.Foryear-roundcomfortthereisunder floorheatingdownstairs&alargewood heaterwhichheatsthewholehome.Withawell-appointedkitchen,2ndtoiletdownstairs,anopen plandining/meals/familyroom&exposedrafters&pitchedceilingsofferingcharacter.Outside thereisasingle+carportwhichhasbeenconvertedtoaworkshop,3gardensheds,acrazypaved outdoorentertainingarea,adjacenttothefullycompliant&registeredspa.Thereisalsoalarge woodshed.Enjoytheparklikesurroundsofthefullyfencedbackyardandtheterracedgardenbeds forvegetables/herbs.AllwhilstbeingminutesfromtheamenitiesofEmerald,Avonsleigh&Cockatoo.

19Gembrook-LaunchingPlRd,Gembrook$760,000-$830,000

72AWooriYallockRoad,Cockatoo $580,000-$630,000

SamanthaScott M 0438680032

37BellbirdCrescent,Emerald$930,000-$1,020,000

SamanthaScott M 0438680032 3 A 2

HOME FOCUS

SOLID HOME ON SCENIC ACREAGE

IF you imagine yourself at an acreage merely minutes from the convenience of bus transport and Belgrave township, this property is the perfect find. An immaculately presented all-original home on a terraced 4,271sqm (approx.) allotment with 2 single carports, rain water tanks, veggie beds, and pathways through lush landscape, there are infinite options of how this property will work for you.

Quality brick construction and a versatile interior ensures new owners immediate comfort and endless possibilities. The leadlight accented front door leads into a generous foyer that enjoys a sightline through to the leafy backdrop this dwelling is surrounded by. The hub of the home is the open plan family room and dining area with wood fire that is overlooked by the bright kitchen with breakfast bar. Vaulted timber ceilings, timeless cork flooring, and access to the wrap-around covered deck create a welcoming home with an inviting indooroutdoor flow.

On this upper level, there are also 3 generously proportioned bedrooms, a classic bathroom with skylight and separate tub and shower, and a family-sized laundry.

On the lower level with separate entry is the expansive rumpus room with exposed bricks, plenty of space to have a designated sleeping area, an updated shower bathroom, and abundant storage.

This sturdy home steps from Black Hill Reserve is a superb investment for astute investors. Don’t delay, plan your inspection today.

· 4,2711sqm (approx.) property with covered parking, terraced garden areas, rain water tanks, and picturesque pathways

· Quality constructed brick home with vaulted timber ceilings, skylights, timber walls, and a blend of cork and carpet floors

· Open plan family room and dining area with wood fire and access to the wraparound deck with leafy hillside outlooks

· Bright kitchen with inviting breakfast bar

· 3 upper level bedrooms with ample storage

· Adaptable lower level 4th bedroom/large rumpus room with updated shower bathroom ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

Thisuniquepropertyoffersanoutstandingopportunityforinvestorsandbuyerssearching formulti-generationalspace.Boastingasprawling8,586sqm(approx.)allotmentwith2tiles, 3dwellings,andpotentialtosubdivide(STCA),thisisaone-offchancetosecureamultiresidencepropertyofimpressiveproportions. ContactBradforaninspectiontoday!

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

DanielSteen

M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

ThischarmingHillscottageresidesonaconvenient1,042sqm(approx.)blockwithinwalking distanceofBaynesPark,MonbulkAquaticCentre,andMainRoadcafesandshopping. Idealasafirsthomeorfabulousweekenderamongstthegumtrees,thispropertyisbursting withappeal.

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

DanielSteen

M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

20HazelvaleRoad,TECOMA

$690,000-$759,000

STYLISHSPLIT-LEVELHOMENEARPARKLANDANDTRANSPORT 3 A 1 B 2 C

Thisimpressivehome’stree-linedaspect,terracedlandscape,andtoplocationbacking ontobeautifulBirdslandReservewillprovidenewownerswithawonderfulwayoflifeinthe DandenongRanges.

Thecoveredverandahwithleafyoutlooksleadsintothewarmandwelcomingsplit-level interior.Bookendedbyvaultedceilingsandtimber floors,theopenplanlowerlevelisbright andbeautifullypresented.

BradSuzie

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

SuzieBrannelly

M 0490506910| E suzie@chandlerandco.com.au

5GriffithsRoad,UPWEY $1,150,000-$1,195,000 FANTASTICFAMILYHOME 5 A 2 B 4 C

ThisFabulous5-bedroomrenderedbrickresidenceistheperfectfamilyhomeandhas acharmingMediterranean flavorinsideandout.Superblylocatedonacornerblockof aquiet,leafy,andhighlysought-afterstreetbetweenUpweytowncenterandGlenfern ValleyBushlandReserve,thehouseiswithinwalkingdistancetoBirdslandReserve/ Lysterfield,1000-steps,localprimaryschools,andUpweyHighSchool,trainstothecityand theshops,gym/wellbeingcenter,restaurantsandcafesofthetown.

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

DanielSteen M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

The Cardinia Foundation Ltd Community Grants Program 2023

Applications open 1st May 2023

The Cardinia Foundation Ltd is a philanthropic community foundation, raising funds for local community groups throughout the Cardinia Shire, with funds dispersed through an annual grants program. Established in 2003, the foundation aims to support the social, community and physical development of the Cardinia Shire.

Community groups, charities and not-for-profit organisations are invited to apply for a grant in this year’s program. The Community Grants Program aims to support projects for Community health, seniors, Disability, Disadvantage, Youth, Arts and Men's Health across the Cardinia Shire region.

How to apply:

1. The ‘Grant Guidelines’ MUST be read before completing the application.

2. Application forms MUST be submitted on a Grant Application.Available by downloading on website under grants or by request from admin@cardiniafoundation.org

3. Late applications will not be accepted; applications MUST be submitted and received by email on or before 5:00 pm 31st May 2023.

4. Shortlisted applicants will be notified and may be requested to provide additional documentation such as; annual reports, financial statements, letters of support, information brochures, evidence of DGR endorsement etc.

Announcement of successful applicants will be made during June 2023. Please refer to our website www.cardiniafoundation.org and proceed to the Grants section for an Application Guide and Application form.

Applications will close at 5.00pm on 31st May 2023

Please direct any queries to the Executive Officer on email admin@cardiniafoundation.org

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.

“What have you done today to make you feel proud?”

Healesville storms home

By Suzanne Tyzack

Healesville faced Monbulk at home this week. With a strong 16-woman lineup and three wins for three games of the season, they were eager to get their fourth at their home ground. Any nerves were quickly put aside as the team applied great pressure to a competitive Monbulk side early. The first goal came before halftime with a beautiful pass into the centre from Kiera Steventon, Melita Campbel connected and put her debut goal through for the SeniorWomen’s season. Spirits were high after a fantastic corner conversion by Naomi Hausmann brought the score to 2-0. Kiera Steventon continued her very strong season kicking two brilliant goals and taking Healesville to a strong 4-0 position. A very late goal from Monbulk brought the final score to 4-1 and the Healesville Senior women secure their fourth win and top position on the VCFA league ladder.

The ball skids away in wet conditions.

Picture: SUPPLIED

LMU fails to capitalise on opportunities

Lilydale-Montrose United hosted Old Ivanhoe in chilly conditions on Friday 5 May.

LMU was hoping to bounce back from a heavy 10-2 defeat last week, while Old Ivanhoe has been in good form in previous games.

It was a physical start to the game, with chances few and far between in the first 25 minutes. An off-the-ball incident resulted in a red card for Old Ivanhoe, who seemed to shake off the rust afterwards and scored soon after.

The game saw multiple yellow cards begin to stack up for both teams as LMU pushed for an equaliser, however, Old Ivanhoe doubled the lead with an excellent volley following a misplaced clearance.

LMU would have been stunned to be two goals behind and a man up at halftime but failed to capitalise on the extra man against a robust and organised Old Ivanhoe defence.

After 40 minutes without a goal in the second half, Old Ivanhoe finally put the game to bed with a classy counter-attacking goal to seal the win.

LMU was also reduced to 10 men following a straight red card in the aftermath of Old Ivanhoe’s third goal before the away team added another two in a clinical display.

Four yellows and red for each side was a just outcome in an incredibly physical game that threatened to boil over on multiple occasions.

It was a frustrating game for LMU, who failed to capitalise on a positive and aggressive start to the game and the resulting red card for old Ivanhoe.

The Reserves fought out a close 2-1 loss, with club captain Louie Pettinella scoring early before Old Ivanhoe scored twice in the second half to seal the win.

Yarra Ranges Athletes lap up Lakeside

By Jamie Strudley

Round 2 of the Athletics Victoria XCR season took place at a wet, cold Albert Park where over 1200 athletes from throughout Victoria raced in the Lakeside:10 Road Race. Open and Under 20 athletes all raced over 10km while the Under 14, 16 and 18 age groups raced over 3km.

The out and back course meant athletes had to navigate a cold wind on the return journey. The standout results came from our female athletes with an excellent win to Brigitte Rice in the Women’s Under 18 3km. Zoe Clarke also returned to racing form with a fifth place finish in the Women’s Under 16 3km.

Olivia Twining carried her track season form on to the road with a club record for a Road 10km recording 36.35. Maddie Laven was also in fine form storming to a third place in the Women’s Under 20 10km and leading the team to a Women’s Under 20 team win.

We also welcomed 3 athletes on the XCR debut, all in the Under 14 age groups. Ryder Holland showed he has a bright future finishing 8th while Lily Clarke and Brienna Coffey crossed the line together in 10th and 11th place. Full Results are:

Women Open 10km

· Olivia Twining 22nd 36:35; Abi Hyndman 81st 40:03; Katrina Winger 105th 42:21; Georgia Laven 124th 43:27; Grace Muller 134th 43:49; Elisabeth Coffey 194th 50:05;

Women Under 20 10km

· Madeline Laven 3rd 39:12; Rori Jones 9th 46:50;

Women Under 18 3km

· Brigitte Rice 1st 10:10

Women Under 16 3km

· Zoe Clarke 10:43; Kristina Nackovski 13:42;

Women Under 14

· Lily Clarke 12:48; Brienna Coffey 12:48;

Men Open 10km

· Max Savill-Bentley 24th 30:45; James Laven 121st 33:26; Ashley Bennett 233rd 35:37; Chris Grundy 280th 36:47; Jared Byrne 296th 37:02; Michael Clarke 330th 37:53; Logan Dutton 441st 40:47; Graham Coutts 500th 43:14; Bryan Ackerly 572nd 50:09; Craig Hewitson 588th 53:25

Men Under 20 10km

· Ky Harris 23rd 38:59;

Men Under 14 3km

· Ryder Holland 8th 11:00

Saturday morning cross had an excellent turnout despite the very cold and wet conditions. This week we were at Elizabeth Bridge Reserve in Kilsyth where underfoot was wet and slippery providing fun conditions for all the athletes.

Next week we are at Morrison Reserve where we meet from 8.45am near the school

gym. With distances over 500m, 1000m, 1500m, 2000m and 3000m, there is something for everyone regardless of age or ability. Everyone in the family is welcome to join us, so kids make sure mum and dad bring their running shoes. Anyone wanting and able to help with setup can join us from 7.30am or add your name to the helpers list via our socials.

Training continues for all club members on Tuesday from 5.30pm at Morrison Reserve and Thursday evenings from 5.30pm at Victoria Road Primary School gym with

the emphasis changing to prepare for cross country. Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability.

If you, or someone you know, wants to join in the fun of cross country email info@ yarrarangesathletics.org.au for information about events and registration.

For information on training, how to join or trial, photos, results and updated news, visit the website at yarrarangesathletics.org. au or check us out on Facebook. Run, Jump, Throw…too easy!

Picture: ON FILE

Lily and Brienna in the Under 14 three kilometre.

Max Savill-Bentley was top finisher for Yarra Ranges athletics running 30.45.

Graham Coutts returns to racing for Yarra Ranges. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Lilydale-Montrose United hosted Old Ivanhoe in chilly conditions on Friday 5 May.

Mighty effort from Olinda

Juniors

U9s

It was the 9’s first taste of home ground advantage this week as they hostedWandin, Belgrave and Seville.

There’s nothing quite like emerging from the home rooms to a big ovation.

The energy and excitement that followed meant the Mighty 9’s were unstoppable across the ground.

This team simply gives 100 per cent every week, with another awesome display by the 9s.

U11s

A chilly Olinda morning and a rain soaked decked greeted us for Olinda Ferny Creek’s home clash against an undefeated Healesville side.

The Olinda boys were fired up from the start, kicking two goals to none in the first quarter in a display of some great wet weather footy.

The next three quarters however belonged to Healesville. They gained control of the game, with some bigger bodies around the footy, and some classy finishes around goal.

Olinda’s boys effort and endeavour didn’t stop for the whole game, but the home team were unable to match the scoring Healesville were able to apply, particularly in the last quarter.

The match was played in good spirits from both teams.

U12 Girls

The weather arrived at Olinda this weekend when the U12 Girls took on Healesville. This is the game the girls had been waiting for, taking their first win and singing the song that has eluded us through two draws. The team really understood the structure we have been working on this game. This presented a solid backline and an effective midfield with Olinda Ferny Creek winning a majority of the ruck work. This left the forward line open for scoring and they did not disappoint. As the game finished, stinging hail belted down as the teams left the oval and back to the warm rooms, reminding us winter footy has arrived.

U13 boys Whites

Topped up with a couple of the Reds players, the boys set out to challenge a tough Mt Evelyn outfit. In the end, though they couldn’t

overcome the conditions and size and strength of their opposition. The boys played well and we saw some great passages of play that they can use to build their season.

U13 boys Reds

The hail storm at start of the Under 13 game didn’t phase our lads one little bit as they started the game very well winning centre clearance after centre clearance in what was an impressive display.

Once again, the team work was very good and it was especially pleasing to see the boys “lowering their eyes” and bringing their team mates into the game.

Jesse Deste was dominant across centre half forward and centre half back, Benny Gowan was dangerous up forward kicking his first goal of the season as was Edward Pattison.

Connor Lourey also had his best game of the season which was good to see..

Final Score Olinda 14.13.97 def Healesville

0.0.0

U14 Girls

Despite being low on numbers, competing against the Chestnut Festival and a bit of

illness, the mighty U14 girls, with the support of pocket rocket Hazel Garrett, braved the icy conditions to take on a strong Healesville outfit. The first quarter saw some even contests around the ground with some great contested marking and chains of kicking. Healesville, though, were more effective with their movement, getting players in the forward line to capitalise on the scoreboard. We saw the girls rewarded for being first at the footy and this was the emphasis on the playing group at quarter time. The game continued in much the same vein through the next two quarters with Healesville being too strong in the middle to move the ball into their foward line to create scoring opportunities.

In the final quarter though, the girls rallied and were able to generate multiple forward entries which lead to scores and the girls finished finished strongly. It was a great effort by the girls, undermanned against a bigger Healesville team. Reagan Seamer continues her good form with solid marking around the ground and Mae Barry was great in the ruck all game.

U15 boys

Round four saw Olinda move up to the top division to take on Upwey at Talaskia Reserve. Early wayward shots at goal from Olinda allowed Upwey to gain ascendancy with a three goal to one first quarter. The second quarter was a seesawing, goaless affair but Upwey’s workrate lifted in the third, kicking five goals to nil. The final quarter saw Olinda’s midfield take control and with forward River Bellemo kicking two goals, we managed four goals to one to show that Olinda well and truly belongs. Very happy with Olinda’s backline who held up well under immense pressure with special mentions to Lachie Tonkin for his hardness at the ball and Liam Jennings for remaining composed under pressure in only his third game of football.

Final scores Upwey 9.6.60 d Olinda 5.8.38

U17 boys

An exciting game for the U17 boys on Sunday with a five point win over Healesville. The game was decided in the last few minutes as the boys lifted to take the lead and hold on until the final siren.

Monbulk outmatched by experienced Narre Warren

Seniors

When coming up against the reigning premiers on their turf it is not ideal to lose key players from last Saturday and need to make five changes to the side for this week, but that was what confronted the Hawks. The end result on the scoreboard did prove to be an emphatic win for Narre Warren although it was only really in the second quarter where the Magpies got off the leash and slotted eight goals in 20 minutes. For the rest of the match, Monbulk had acquitted themselves quite well against their experienced opponents and in the last term they won the quarter and controlled much of the play. While the Hawks were outmatched, every player had given their all in the cool and slippery conditions.

Narre Warren 15.11.101 def Monbulk 4.7.31

Best: Glenn Strachan, NicholasWall, Lochlan Beecroft, Lachlan Sheppard, Bailey Rutherford, Hayden Finlay

Goals: Glenn Strachan 2, Ben Hughson 1, Hayden Finlay 1

Reserves

For the Monbulk Reserves, the corresponding fixture last year resulted in a 124-point drubbing, but the Hawks were able to put in a much stronger performance this time around. Four debutants appeared in the Reserves line-up, Colee and Bremner from the Under 19s along with two first-timers in the maroon and gold. Monbulk trailed the premiers by 27 points by halftime but then fought out the match by going goal for goal in the second half to eventually go down by 30 points in their first loss of the season. Monbulk still holds third place and will look to bounce back this week.

Narre Warren 10.12.72 def Monbulk 6.6.42

Best: Brodie Emmett, Toby Versteegan, Lewis Oliver, Josh Rak, Matthew James, Ash Bremner

Goals: Brodie Emmett 3, Aaron Smith, Ash Bremner, Michael Langworthy Under 19s

The Monbulk and Narre Warren Under 19s had both had a perfect start to the season overthefirstthreeweekstobothbeundefeated. A good match was anticipated which was close in the first quarter before Narre Warren kicked a few goals in the middle two terms to hold a 22-point lead at the final change. The Magpies managed to break through the Hawks backline in the last quarter to kick five goals to one and the final margin was bigger than the game had shown in general play.

Narre Warren 9.8.62 def Monbulk 2.4.16

Best: Nick Taylor, Riley Finlay, Noah Ruther-

ford, Charlie Barge, Jack Downard-Pengilly, Timothy Rickard

Goals: Nick Taylor 1, Jett Bolton 1

NETBALL A Grade

The Narre Warren netballers are just as dominant as their footballers, with talented squads for each of their grades. In A Grade the Magpies jumped out of the blocks to post a rarely seen 24-4 scoreline by the first break. Although Monbulk regrouped after this and was able to challenge for periods of time, the Narre girls were playing some superb netball and took out a convincing win.

Narre Warren 66 def Monbulk 25

Best: Nicole Macdowell, Paige Whitworth, Sophie Stubbs

Goals: Nicole Macdowell 12, Paige Rondinella 9, Sophie Stubbs 4

B Grade

Last year Monbulk fought some classic encounters with premiers Narre Warren in B Grade and caused a boilover to beat them in this corresponding fixture at Kalora Park 3634. With both sides undefeated over the first two rounds another chapter was to be written. What eventuated was not in the script and created some unwanted records as the Magpies took control from the opening and didn’t relent for the entire match.

Narre Warren 83 def Monbulk 17

Best: Alice McCormick, Siobhan Munday, Rihanna Kelly

Goals: Iris de Wit 12, Chloe Schmidtke 3, Rylie Truscott 2

C Grade

The C Grade Hawks faced a similar fate to the other teams and came up short against their ladder-leading opponents. Some good passages of play were shaded by the consistent results that the Magpies were able to achieve on the rebound.

Narre Warren 56 def Monbulk 17

Best: Jess Whitworth, Laura Del Biondo, Tara Donald

Goals: Jamie Sands 15, Jenna Schnehage 2

D Grade

Narre Warren began their day of success in the morning when they got the better of the young Monbulk combination in D Grade. The Hawks improved their avenues to goal in the second half but were to come up short on the day.

Narre Warren 48 def Monbulk 14

Best: Leah Hansby, Kate Smith, Sammi Kelly

Goals: Sammi Kelly 11, Kate Smith 2, Hannah Dickason 1

Monbulk acquitted themselves well against their experienced opponents.

Picture: MONBULK FOOTBALL CLUB

Olinda Ferny Creek’s U12 girls signing the song.

Picture: SIMON GILSON

BEST PRICE, BEST TANKS WITH A LIFETIME GUARANTEE

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Concrete tanks built correctly will last a lifetime!

Terry Miller from Terry Miller Concrete Tanks has been in the concrete tank building business for nearly 30 years. Being from country Victoria himself, Terry realises the importance of good water storage systems.

Concrete water tanks built correctly will last a lifetime. They keep your water cool, clean and algae free. This is because our tanks have 130mm walls and a 300mm base, and are poured with 40-mpa strength concrete not 25 or 30 mpa. We also use plasticiser to keep up the strength in the tanks instead of water. And after 28 days of curing the strength of the concrete will be between 48 and 52 mpa. And each tank is poured individually on site. These tanks come out white, which is a sign of the strength in the tanks. The MPA is a measure of how much concrete there is as parts per 1000. The walls of the tank are vibrated all around to ensure that there are no air bubbles and that the concrete is compacted down. Terry generally builds tanks in three sizes, 50,000, 105,000 and 120,000 either with a silo (metal) roof, concrete top or open top tanks.

The tanks will not blow away or fall apart, and this is particularly important in areas where there is high wind, or in fire prone districts. In the event of a fire, a large tank (120,000 litres) can supply water back up to the main house. By setting up a petrol powered generator and pumping water up onto the house directly, via a reverse water sprinkler system, you will keep your home cool and wet. Or if need be, you can jump into the tank to keep cool and be protected from flames and radiant heat. Water is our most important resource, and we cannot have too much of it! So for all your water storage needs when you are thinking of installing your next tank, please call Terry for a quote on 0419 462 814 or 02 6026 7021 or check out our website, www.terrymillerconcretetanks.com.au.

Nearly four years ago, we suffered our own fire here, in Barnawartha, and we were lucky. But it made me realise how important good water storage is. We are in for a long, hot, dry summer, and fire restrictions are in. Having an ample supply of safely stored water is imperative. So why not contact Terry now about your water supply needs, BEFORE, the heat builds up and water scarce. There is nothing more refreshing than your own cool, clear, clean water!