Mail - Lilydale Star Mail - 16th May 2023

Killara Road, Canterbury Road fund worries

Yara Ranges Council push for protection

Health study aid

By Parker Mckenzie

Inspiro Health, a healthcare organisation in the Yarra Ranges, handed out its 2023 Tertiary Health Scholarship Awards in Belgrave on Thursday 11 May, with students receiving a total of $22,500 towards accredited health courses.

Inspiro chief executive officer Sue Sestan said she was taken aback by the scholarship program when she arrived at the organisation.

“As a healthcare organisation that has been in existence for over 25 years now, we believe that we should be giving back to the community for the services that we need in the future,” she said.

“Everybody knows there is a workforce shortage, so the idea of this is really to encourage young people to take up that option of study or if they’ve already made up their minds, to support it and help see them through their studies.”

This year’s individual awards were renamed in honour of long-serving members of the Yarra Ranges healthcare community Hamish Russell and Stephen Potter.

Mr Russell said the scholarship started through funding raised by the local Lilydale community for medical equipment for the hospital before it became a for-profit business.

“We talked about a number of things, and the one that we talked about that they accepted was when I suggested perhaps you could fund a scholarship for people in the Yarra Ranges who are studying in the health field,” he said.

“Nearly $200,000 now has been given by Inspiro for these scholarships, with between three and four scholarships given every year now since 2000.”

Alannah Finger and Jaimee Cook each received the participation award of $2500, while Sarah Oliver received the $7500 Stephen Potter Award and Derek Villaceran received the $10,000 Hamish Russell Award.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said Inspiro

did an amazing job offering services alongside the scholarships each year.

“I know how passionate they are as well. And we see them in and out of our building and they’ve just got this such strong collaborative relationship with our organisation,” he said.

“It’s also a testament to young people in the room who are studying these are the sorts of relationships you can for being involved in the community.”

Inspiro is a Yarra Ranges founded not-forprofit, offering a range of healthcare services like physiotherapy, podiatry, dental, and NDIS to sexual health.

ZoeEggleton,apreviousawardrecipientand Tertiary Healthcare Scholarship Ambassador, said she used the money she received from Inspiro towards initiatives run by the Melbourne University Physiotherapy Student Society.

“It’s nice to be able to use the money to put

towards the community as well as myself,” she said.

“You feel part of the family which is just so lovely and a representation of the wider Yarra Valley community as well.”

Inspiro has offices in Lilydale and Belgrave, and more information can be found about the organisation, its scholarships and its services at inspiro.org.au

Zoe Eggleton (Tertiary Health Scholarship Ambassador), Kim Griffiths (Inspiro board director) ,Sarah Oliver, Hamish Russell (chair of Consumer Advisory Group), Derek Villaceran, Stephen Potter, Jaimee Cook and Sue Seston (Inspiro CEO). Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Keep your recycling loose.

Road plans at risk

By Parker Mckenzie

The funding for the Killara Road intersection upgrade in Coldstream will be reviewed according to documents published in the 2023/24 federal budget, and Casey MP Aaron Violi is calling on the project to be delivered without delay.

A large swathe of projects included in the $120 billion infrastructure investment program will undergo a 90-day independent review, including Killara Road and the Canterbury Road Upgrade, to ensure “projects can be delivered with more confidence about timeframes and budgets”.

MrVioli said with the Killara Road and Canterbury Road projects “now on the chopping block,” it showed the Labor government “does not care about the outer east.

“They’re continuing to rip money out of our community so they can put it into bankrolling the suburban rail loop, which we know is going to cost over $100 billion to complete the project, and they’re looking for money anywhere they can find it,” he said.

“I would be very surprised if the funding for Killara Road or for Canterbury Road was still there.

“I’m very hopeful.

“The projects are needed, they stack up, but theVictorian government have had this money

for four years and refused to start works on it.”

The former Liberal-Nationals Coalition government committed $20 million to Killara Road in 2019, with plans to upgrade the intersection with Maroondah Highway.

Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King launched the review of more than 700 projects to “consider the projects that are actual priorities and assess their cost and deliverability in the current climate”.

Mr Violi said if funding was cut, it isn’t just residents in Coldstream or Montrose who are impacted.

“It’s Healesville,Yarra Glen,The UpperYarra

all the way through to Silvan and Monbulk,” he said.

“A lot of people use these roads to get to and from work and to everyday activities.”

TheVictorian Government has received the funding for the project but has yet to begin the upgrade.

Star Mail spoke to Coldstream residents in April last year who gathered to push for works to begin on the upgrade. Coldstream CFA are particularly affected, finding it difficult and dangerous trying to turn at the intersection in an emergency situation.

Coldstream CFA captain Sean Bethall said at the time that the lack of infrastructure to support emergency services needing to respond to jobs can mean dangerous close calls for crews exiting Killara Road.

“Even when we’ve got red and blue lights going we have difficulties where we’ve got to be quite abrupt in trying to get out because otherwise the traffic thinks we’re giving way to them and they just keep going. So it is very hard as an emergency service to get out,” he said.

Mr Bethall said the land has been available for duplication since the 1980s but nothing had happened to go about widening the road.

“Over the last 10 years it’s probably been more evident that the traffic’s getting heavier and harder to get out,” he said.

CFA crews control Wandin garage fire

By Callum Ludwig

The help of six local CFA crews was required when a garage fire broke out on Beenak Road in Wandin at about 4.45pm on Thursday 11 May.

The Wandin Fire Brigade was supported by the Seville Rural, Mt Evelyn,Yellingbo Rural, Silvanand the Bayswater Fire Brigades and their breathing apparatus unit at the scene.

Wandin Fire Brigade Captain Darryn Goss said upon turning out, the crew noticed a thick black column of smoke, which showed there was an active fire on site.

“We requested additional resources and upon arrival, we found a going garage fire which started to encroach on the house as well. Crews fromWandin started to suppress the garage and contain the fire as best they can, while additional resources arrived,” he said.

“After the specialty breathing apparatus vehicle arrived, crews then donned breathing apparatus and entered the house and started to extinguish the fire. Residents had safely evacuated and advised the initial crews that all occupants were out of their house.”

Ambulance Victoria personnel were on standby to assist, whileVictoria Police closed the road to help CFA crews to work safely.

Mr Goss said crews isolated the power, water and solar services.

“We later contained the fire to the roof cavity and the garage, being able to salvage a large amount of personal and valuable artefacts to the homeowners in all bedrooms,” he said.

“Fire investigators arrived this morning to determine the cause of the fire, which is yet to be determined.”

Crews were on the scene for about four hours.

Mr Goss said following the blaze, the homeowners emptied the house of any personal effects and belongings.

“The house will be assessed by an insurance company as the roof is unstable for people to live in. It is not in a habitable state and residents will need to partially rebuild or possibly fully knock down and rebuild,” he said.

“Wandin would like to thank all of those involved, all our neighbouring crews and support. We did a very good job.”

Fatal accident in Montrose

A man has died following a crash in Montrose on 6 May.

It is believed a car driving east along Leith Road, struck a signpost and continued to travel before coming to a stop at the side of a kerb about 12.15pm.

The driver and sole occupant, a 79-year-old Kilsyth man, was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Sadly, the man later died in hospital.

Anyone who witnessed the collision or anyone with dashcam footage is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppersvic.com.au

Wear Orange Wednesday

Wednesday 17 May is Wear Orange Day, a national day to say thanks to dedicated SES volunteers across the state and Australia.

Held annually to coincide with Volunteer Week, WOW Day encourages members of the public to thank and acknowledge the work of SES volunteers by wearing orange.

The past three years have been three of the busiest for Victoria’s SES units, following storms and floods across the state.

VICSES CEO Stephen Griffin said he continues to admire the remarkable and relentless efforts of VICSES volunteers.

“In the face of adversity, our people are capable of extraordinary things. Whether it’s a one in one-hundred-year flood event, or deployment to another part of the country to help local communities,VICSES volunteers are here for our communities,“ he said.

“Wear Orange Wednesday is an opportunity for the public to say thank you, to all the volunteers who sacrifice their time away from their family, friends and loved ones, to help the community rain, hail or shine.”

House blaze in Badger Creek

On Sunday 14 May in the mid-afternoon, multiple fire brigades were called out to a structure house fire in Juliet Avenue, Badger Creek.

Healesville Fire Brigade responded to the reported blaze and was informed of possible people inside and posted on social media that “thankfully this was not the case”.

Ambulance Victoria was also called to the scene but no emergency medical care or transport was required

Hillcrest Brigade was also paged to assist and arrived on the scene at 4 pm just as Badger Creek and Healesville teams got the situation under control.

They returned shortly after to assist with a six-cylinder swap by two crews to ensure all appliances on the scene had full cylinders for when they returned home.

Several crews attended the house fire and displayed great collaboration and teamwork.

Traffic was slowed to and around the area while firefighters got the situation under control.

Healesville and Badger Creek Crews returned him by 7.30pm and thanked Hillcrest, Coldstream and Lilydale brigades for their assistance as well as Ambulance Victoria.

KillaraRoadintersectionupgradewillundergo a90-dayreview. Picture:ONFILE

Firefightersdidwelltorestrictthespreadofthefire.

Picture:SEVILLECFA

Action sought on

By Parker McKenzie

Yarra Ranges Council has called on the state government to take action on recent disruptions at council meetings throughout Victoria after the public gallery was closed by the council until May.

At the Tuesday Yarra Ranges Council meeting, councillors unanimously voted to submit a motion to the Municipal Association of Victoria’s (MAV) state council on Friday May 19, calling on the Victorian Government to “actively work with the local government sector and other relevant stakeholders to develop state-wide measures to manage and prevent disruptive and unsafe behaviour,” at local council meetings and “coordinate a response to the expanding and increasingly aggressive cohort in the community that have been targeting local councils in recent months.”

Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said in his terms as Shire of UpperYarra President in 1985 and as Mayor of Yarra Ranges in 2012, 2013, 2021 and 2023, he has never seen “such continuous disruptive and aggressive behaviour that has been playing out in council public galleries.”

“The purpose of this late motion is to see the whole of MAV membership support to call on the Victorian government to actively work with the local government sector and other relevant stakeholders to develop statewide measures that support councils to manage and prevent disruptive and unsafe behaviour,” he said.

“Yarra Ranges Council is committed to reopening the doors of the public gallery once again but can only do so with increased support and a coordinated sector-wide response to ensure the safety of staff, councillors and the broader community.”

On 31 January this year,Yarra Ranges Council adjourned its meeting due to injections from the public gallery and called the police

when those in attendance refused to leave the Civic Centre building in Lilydale.

Before councillors spoke and voted on the motion, Yarra Ranges resident Belinda Bernardini, who is a founder of the fringe-community group My Place Yarra Valley, spoke against the motion.She said an alternative recommendation would be “to look at altering your undemocratic governance processes so that outcomes accord with the needs of the community rather than that of bureaucrats.”

“Mayor Child has been, in my opinion, a large contributor to the discord in the gallery. He has personally been quoted in the media

labelling My Place members as anti-vaxxers, holocaust deniers and right-wing conspiracy theorists,” Ms Bernardini said.

“As the founder of My Place Yarra Valley independent of any My Place in the country, and as a vaccinated resident who has personally been to Auschwitz and many other World War II historical locations with a healthy distrust of government, I wholeheartedly refute all these allegations.”

After a decision was made to close the public gallery in April, Mayor Jim Child said members of the group hadn’t come to terms with the Holocaust, after My Place founder

Darren Bergwerf told ABC’s 7.30 program he didn’t know if the genocide occurred because he “wasn’t there.”

Ms Bernardini said the agenda item suggests that there has been a significant amount of serious incidents that warrant intervention from MAV and the state government, “yet in spite of this council calling the police and employing security guards, there has not been one arrest.”

“Not one person has been forcibly removed from the council building nor has there been any damage to council property,” she said.

“Council doesn’t seem to understand that the problem isn’t with the residents, it’s with the system.”

Members of My Place Yarra Valley and My Place in the Hills, offshoots of Mr Bergwerf’s My Place Frankston group, have been attending council meetings to protestYarra Ranges Council adopting 20-minute neighbourhood design principles in recent development plans for Monbulk andWarburton.Yarra Ranges Council no longer takes questions “relating to 20-minute neighbourhoods or their alignment to the principles associated with the United Nations” during meetings.

Deputy-Mayor Sophie Todorov said Yarra Ranges Council has had its“very own evidencebased experience of having meetings disrupted since 31 January.”

“We couldn’t even get through the acknowledgment of country without verbal comments and disruptions and interruptions through there. And we couldn’t even follow our own local government processes and governance rules,” she said.

“I too feel that it’s only come to this, that we now have to take this action for those behaviours and it also disappoints me to know that some of those threats from these people have been extended personally to counsellors and their families as well.”

The motion was passed unanimously.

Yarra Ranges Council meetings are currently closed to the public, with meetings continuing to be live-streamed.

Picture: YARRA RANGES COUNCIL

Community grants begin

By Callum Ludwig

The process for the 2024 Grants for Community program was initiated by Yarra Ranges councillors at the Tuesday 9 May council meeting.

$500,000 has been allocated to support festivals and events, art and heritage and community development projects being carried out by the community.

Melba Ward Councillor and Deputy Mayor Sophie Todorov spoke to the motion and said over the last few years, she’s been one of the biggest supporters of this initiative.

“I’m so pleased that Yarra Ranges Council can offer a generous amount of money to support these Grants for Community and have seen over the last few years the magnificent events and projects and programs that have come out of this,” she said.

“These grants are intended to mobilise, support and connect our community, and being the current delegate in the Health and Wellbeing Committee, it’s just the core of what this community is about in terms of providing healthy and safe communities and people.”

$125,000 is dedicated to Festivals and Events and for Arts and Heritage, while $250,000 is set aside for Community Development.

BillanookWard CouncillorTim Heenan seconded the motion and said councillors have interacted with these fantastic events that happen every year.

“We had a fairly severe period of time when everything went down and certainly the community suffered. We believe that’s over now and it’s exciting to know that going forward, there’s half a million dollars invested in these three areas,” he said.

“The volunteers are the salt of the earth, and

we can’t do without them in the Yarra Ranges, so I just like to also speak, as Cr Todorov did, on thanking those assessment panel volunteers for giving up their time.”

Two assessment panels made up of locals will help to select the recipients of grants, one for community development and one for creative communities.

Kilsyth Community Planning Group (chair) Mike O’Meara, president of the Healesville Community Garden Ethne Pfeiffer, environmental science student and Leading for the Future and Youth Advisory Group member Kelsey Haigh, Hills Regional Community Recovery Committee (RCRC) member Carolina Aguilera de Snow and recreation development and liaison officer atYarra Ranges Council Ellie Ingwersen make up the community development panel.

Photographer and community event manager Suzanne Phoenix, festival organiser and community engagement coordinator Jordan Sibley, member of the Misfits Youth Theatre Group Lotte Gale, Yarra Valley Tourism vommittee member, vo-chair Valley RCRC and Healesville and District Community Enterprise committee member Leigh Harry and cultural programming officer at Yarra Ranges Council Ginger van Handley will be the creative communities panel.

Previous recipients have included the Small Hall Gypsy Cabaret, the Yarra Valley Open Studios, Dandenong Ranges Orchestra and Stories of the Storm - June 2021.

Applications open 1 June and close on 17 July. The motion was passed unanimously.

The Small Hall Gypsy Cabaret was a previous recipient of Grants For Community funding.

Picture: ON FILE

Quarry fined

A former Montrose Quarry worker has won her case against Boral Resources after being diagnosed with silicosis from working at the site.

Joanna McNeill, 37, worked at Boral from 2013 in administration and was later diagnosed in 2019 with the untreatable and deadly illness from inhaling respirable crystalline silica or silica dust.

The Melbourne Magistrates’ Court sentenced Boral Resources on Monday 8 May, fining the company $180,000 after it pleaded guilty to a single charge for not providing a safe workspace.

An investigation by WorkSafe found that on multiple occasions in 2019 workers were being exposed to dust generated by the blasting, crushing, mixing, screening and transferring of quarried rock.

WorkSafe Director of Health and Safety Narelle Beer said the risks associated with crystalline silica and the available control measures were well known.

“There is simply no excuse for placing your workers at risk of developing deadly lung conditions such as silicosis,” Dr Beer said.

“This insidious and incurable disease does not discriminate and WorkSafe will not hesitate to take strong action against those failing to protect their workers, regardless of the industry.”

It has been reported in The Age that Magistrate Carolyn Burnside didn’t see any reason for Boral to have not implemented the use of appropriate safety equipment, like respiratory masks, and had been notified of the risks associated with silica dust.

Ms McNeill was supported in court by members of the AustralianWorkers UnionVictoria Branch (AWU)

Speaking to the AWU for an article, Ms McNeill said she was pleased with the verdict but would like to see better outcomes and work environments for staff.

“It’s crucial that we raise awareness about

the severity of silica dust exposure and the simple preventative measures that can be put in place to protect workers,” she said in an AWU article.

“Boral’s knowledge of my condition for four years and their recent concession of the risk to my health only through a WorkSafe investigation at the Montrose Quarry highlights the

urgent need for companies to prioritise their workers’ health and safety.

“Let’s hold companies accountable and work together to ensure that no worker has to suffer from preventable workplace illnesses.”

Represented by Maurice Blackburn Lawyers dust diseases and asbestos senior associate Leah O’Keefe, it was an important victory

for both parties.

“This prosecution sends a strong message to all workplaces about the importance of workplace health and safety, especially when it comes to protecting workers from dangerous dusts,” Maurice Blackburn Lawyers posted to social media to acknowledge the win. Boral was contacted for comment.

MauriceBlackburnLawyersseniorassociateLeahO’KeefewithclientJoannaMcNeilloutside courtonMonday8May. Pictures:MAURICEBLACKBURNLAWYERS

MsMcNeilladdressedthemediaoutsidecourt afterBoralwashandeditssentence.

New government’s budget

By Parker McKenzie

Make no mistake, the 2023/24 federal budget was just as much about making a political statement as it was about economic management.

When Treasurer Jim Chalmers handed down the budget and a forecast of a budget surplus on Tuesday 9 May, his aim — alongside providing cost-of-living relief, investing in Medicare and “laying the foundations for growth” —was to dispel the myth that the Labor party is inferior at economic management compared to the Coalition opposition.

In his speech to Parliament, Mr Chalmers said the budget aims to make Australia more resilient and more secure in uncertain times.

“Fundamental to this is our responsible economic management and our efforts to the budget on a stronger foundation,” he said.

“We are now forecasting a small surplus in 2022-23, which would be the first in 15 years.”

While the Liberal-National government forecasted a surplus in 2019/20, it was never realised due to increased spending throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

The last time a surplus was achieved was in 2008 when the Rudd government delivered an underlying cash surplus of $19.7 billion.

Mr Chalmers said the global economy is slowing due to persistent inflation, higher interest rates and financial sector strains.

“Outside of the pandemic and the Global Financial Crisis, the next two years are expected to be the weakest for global growth in over two decades. This will affect us here in Australia,” he said.

“This budget is carefully calibrated to alleviate inflationary pressures not add to them.”

The budget includes a $14.6 billion plan to address the cost of living — “we understand Australians are under the pump right now,” Mr Chalmers said — which includes $3 billion

in energy bill relief to eligible households and small businesses co-funded with state governments, a $40 a fortnight increase for Jobseeker, Youth Allowance, Austudy and other support payments, and an increase to rent assistance by 15 per cent.

Mr Chalmers said one of the things that makes Australia the best country in the world is the “shared belief that every Australian should be able to access affordable, reliable healthcare.”

“Right now, too many people are finding it more and more difficult to see a doctor,” he said.

“The costs are too high, the wait times are

too long and the consultation is too short.”

The budget allocated funding for eight new Urgent Care Clinics and $3.5 billion for GPs to provide free consultations to children, pensioners and other concession card holders, a cohort of 11.6 million Australians.

Mr Chalmers said while investing in Medicare and helping those most in need are essential measures to assist Australians under pressure, the best long-term guarantee of rising living standards, stronger wages and a better quality of life is a growing and productive economy.

“Our budget is underpinned by a plan to modernise our and maximise our strengths,”

Mr Chalmers said.

“Australia’s biggest opportunity for growth and prosperity is the global shift to clean energy.”

$2 billion is being allocated to a new Hydrogen Headstart program, “so Australia can be a world leader in producing and exporting hydrogen power.”

$40 billion is being allocated to renewable energy, including $15 billion for the National Reconstruction Fund, which aims to support the development of green industries and manufacturing.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers delivering the budget speech to parliament on Tuesday 9 May.

Picture: AUSTRALIAN PARLIAMENT HOUSE

Liberals fire on budget

By Parker Mckenzie

The Liberal Opposition says Labor’s 2023/24 budget will worsen the cost of living crisis, reduce access to mental health services and cut funding to important local infrastructure projects.

Federal Opposition Leader Peter Dutton said the “Albanese Government’s Big Australia approach will make the cost-of-living crisis and inflation worse.

Budget boost for small business efficiencies

By Callum Ludwig

The 2023/24 Federal Budget has backed small businesses to take on challenges old and new as Australia nears one year of an Albanese Labor Government.

Rising costs and a tight labour market are tough conditions to face but some budget measures look set to help alleviate common concerns.

Executive Officer and business consultant at Yarra Ranges Enterprise Centres (YREC) Alison Fitzgerald said small businesses at YREC are feeling the pinch with two tenants giving notice this week.

“Starting a small business has been a dream for these 2 businesses but both tenants have had to make the decision to seek full-time employment due to increases in supplies and cost of living, and a reduction in the disposable income of their customer market,” she said.

“The government announcement to pay $650 to small businesses is welcomed by other tenants who are also being adversely affected by cost of supplies and decreased markets. Following the 2022 year of ‘survival’, most considered this year to be a year of growth, however this growth is now being compromised by economic impacts.”

$650 in electricity bill relief will be available for small businesses from 1 July 2023.

A welcome increase in the instant asset write-off threshold to $20,000 was announced on a per-asset basis for 12 months from 1 July for eligible small businesses. Businesses are also being incentivised to be more energy efficient with up to $20,000 available to provide an additional 20 per cent depreciation for eligible energy-saving and efficient electrification assets.

“YREC looks forward to exploring the bonus tax discount and Energy Incentive that the government is offering and will be considering sustainability projects to claim 20 per cent of spending that supports electrification or more efficient energy use,” said Ms Fitzgerald.

“The $20,000 instant asset write-off for small businesses continuing until the middle of next year is also relevant toYREC and our tenants assisting businesses to deduct the full cost of assets up to that price that was installed or ready for use before that date.”

Small business innovation in the field of artificial intelligence is encouraged with support on offer for adopting artificial intelligence technologies to streamline business processes and improve competitiveness.

Small business voices are set to be at the forefront of systemic change with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) also establishing a complaints mechanism for small business advocacy groups.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson said the Budget helps small businesses with contemporary challenges.

“There is support for small and family businesses to tackle immediate pressures, particularly with high energy input costs, an asset write-off boost to help re-equip and invest in productivity, tax administration changes that will help with vital cash flow challenges and much-needed advice to deal with cyber security fears,” he said.

“Energising enterprise can deliver a stronger economy and these measures are a step towards delivering that.”

“We all support a well-planned migration program – and that’s the history of Coalition government, but over five years, net overseas migration will see our population increase by 1.5 million people,” he said.

“It’s the biggest migration surge in our country’s history and it’s occurring amidst a housing and rental crisis. Australians are struggling to rent or purchase a property now.”

He said the budget “hurts working Australians” and risks “creating a generation of working poor Australians.”

Casey MP Aaron Violi said he was disappointed the Treasurer wasn’t “taking pressure off inflation”.

“He could have significantly taken more pressure off by delivering a bigger surplus,” he said.

“There was a real opportunity to take even more pressure off inflation, which would have then taken more pressure off interest rates.”

Mr Violi took aim at the decision to remove funding for local roads, a joint venture

between the Federal Government and Yarra Ranges Council called Roads for Community, and “admit that they’d made a mistake”.

“Through their own departmental advice, they know this program improves safety for residents,” he said.

“They know this program, in consultation and partnership withYarra Ranges Council, was being delivered on time and on budget and it was a project that they supported in 2019.”

The $300 million road sealing project received bi-partisan support in 2019 — when Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was Shadow Infrastructure Minister — and Yarra Ranges Council received over $98 million of funding required to complete it. The remaining funds required have been cut from the budget.

The Liberal Party is also supporting the reinstatement of a Covid-19 policy of 20 subsidised psychology sessions per year, which has been reduced to 16 in the current budget.

Mr Violi said the Opposition was also calling on the Labor party to support banning gambling ads from live sport broadcasts an hour before and an hour after games.

“I think that’s a really important policy because footy time is family time. I love watching the footy with my kids, I don’t like when they see the odds and when there’s talk about betting during the games,” he said.

“We’re leading the conversation in this space around gambling reform and around mental health support.”

Casey MP Aaron Violi said the Labor Government “made a mistake” by cutting funding for roads in his electorate. Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

YREC executive officer Alison Fitzgerald welcomes some of the budget initiatives for small business. 204174 Picture: ON FILE

Biosecurity levy on farms

By Callum Ludwig

The Federal Government made a massive investment of over $1 billion in biosecurity and agriculture in the 2023/24 budget, but questions are raised about the delivery.

$153 million of the funding is also set to be received from businesses in the agricultural, forestry and fishery industries through a biosecurity protection levy.

Chairman of Yarra Valley Agribusiness Cluve Larkman said it was good that the government was putting a lot more money into biosecurity, but he will wait to see how much of it hits the ground.

“I’m concerned that they’re talking about funding part of it with a 10 per cent levy of agricultural products. It’s a bit unfair to take money that we’re putting towards research to go towards their biosecurity costings. Those that use the biosecurity system are already paying through the nose,” he said.

“Why they need to raise more money off us, I’m not sure, but it’s good to see that they see the value in keeping Australia as pest-free as we can be. I’m always pleased to see that.”

The inclusion of the levy was to cover the benefit that the industry will derive from the investment, which will target the ‘detection, identification and response associated with invasive pests and diseases, maximising trade opportunities, and enhancing access to premium overseas markets.’

Mr Larkman said he would like to see a bit more money put into agricultural expansion sections, as he has seen in other countries.

“A large number of universities and tertiary institutes in America have huge agriculture extension sections and they’ll do research on new agricultural products and they run test gardens, they do test programs which they don’t charge the industry for,” he said.

“I was over at a lavender conference in

January in Oregon and one of the universities from the southern United States presented a paper on research they did on phytophthora and lavender, as part of a government research project,”

“I just don’t think we put enough money into our agricultural research and support, even the DPI [Department of Primary Indus-

tries] here used to have dozens of officers out there helping businesses, but they don’t anymore.”

$845 million is directed towards building a sustainable model of biosecurity operations, focused on reducing the impact of exotic pests and diseases and climate change.

Mr Larkman said there were three

key biosecurity issues.

“There’s the importing and exporting of plants and animals coming into and out of Australia, that’s very strictly controlled. Then you’ve got the interstate biosecurity issues, which is the state Departments of Agriculture who put their own rules and regulations between each state, which makes it very hard in moving plants and animals across the state, or across state borders,” he said.

“Then you’ve got the regional issues like Queensland Fruit Flies, filoxera and the varroa mite on the bees, it’s important that when an outbreak occurs of a new pest, that the Federal Government is there to assist in trying to eradicate it, or at worse, at least contain it.”

$145.2 million is being delivered over three years to upgrade to modern digital systems in cargo pathways which aims to streamline service delivery when importing by reducing the red tape on regulation.

In a media release, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt a new era in Australian agriculture begins.

“For the first time, an Australian Government is locking in higher, ongoing and more predictable biosecurity funding, from year to year - drawing a line under years of stop-gap, temporary funding from Coalition Governments, that placed our agriculture sector at risk,” he said.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton said in his budget reply, Labor had slugged farmers with a new $153 million dollar tax.

“They will be forced to unfairly pay for the risks of international importers – especially at a time when our farmers and producers are facing more uncertainty with rising input costs and workforce shortages,” he said.

“Instead of taxing Australian farmers, I announce the Coalition will establish an importer container levy – as recommended by the independent Craik Biosecurity review.”

Over $1 billion was pledged to biosecurity in the 2023/24 Federal budget.

Picture: ON FILE

Bees bed down for winter

By Tanya Steele

Ahead of World Bee Day on May 20, Victorian hobby beekeepers are getting their hives ready for winter and making sure they are set up for the colder period.

Yarra Valley Bee Keepers Group Vice President Jim Dawes has been a hobby beekeeper for eight years and initially started his hives to help his backyard fruit trees along.

“It’s more about the bees now,” he said.

The retiree has two active hives in his backyard in Moroolbark and uses the Yarra Valley Bee group to network and meet regularly with other apiarists on all things bee and beekeeping.

“We’ve got members from Croyden, to the Hills and right up in Heasleville,” said Mr Dawes.

There are nearly 3,700 registered beekeepers inVictoria with over 100,000 non-commercial hives.

Honey bees are essential for pollination and many food crops rely on the tiny insects’ hard work.

The hobby is serious for those involved and Mr Dawes said it isn’t about the honey and said he enjoys the quiet contemplation involved with tending his hives.

“If the bees are not happy, they won’t stay,” he said.

A bee will live from four to six weeks.

In winter the Queen Bee produces less offspring but the hive must still have enough food to last through the season.

“All bees will be gentle if you have the right Queen,” he said.

“She mates once in her lifetime and can lay up to 2,000 eggs in a day.”

Even on a rainy day some of the honey bees are out working in Mr Dawes’s garden.

“In winter they’ll eat their source [the hon-

ey] as well,” he said.

The beekeeper also keeps other hives on other properties in Seville, he will prep the hives for winter by weighing them to make

sure they have enough food to last.

Mr Dawes is dedicated to his hobby and enjoys the bees themselves.

“You can watch them come and go and oc-

casionally one will bump into you, I like them,” he said.

“You’re there for the bees themselves, not the honey.”

Training boost announced for early childhood educators

By Tyler Wright

The Federal government will spend $72.4 million over four years to support the skills development of early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector workers.

In the 2023-2024 budget released on Tuesday 9 May, the government announced it would support early childhood educators to undertake professional development and provide financial assistance to educators and teachers to complete the required practical component of a Bachelor or Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education.

$34.4 million will be dedicated over five years to subsidise ECEC services to backfill up to 75,000 early childhood educators, early childhood teachers and centre directors to undertake mandatory or highly recommended training, or to pay an allowance to the educator if training is undertaken outside work hours.

Up to 6000 educators in the ECEC sector will be able to undertake a paid practicum in initial teacher education courses at a bachelor or post-graduate level, thanks to an injection of $33.1 million.

It comes after the government announced in the October 2022 budget that childcare would be made cheaper for families from 1 July 2023, with more than 1.2 million eligible families under a measure revealed in the $4.5 billion policy.

Yarra Ranges Kindergartens chief executive officer Gaby Thomson said the reforms were welcome, but funding needed to go into staff pockets to help workforce shortages to help combat the demand for childcare.

“The whole sector is having a massive staffing crisis,“ she said.

“We won’t have the facilities in the future to accommodate the reforms that the government’s introduced because you need more than one building facility, and most of our kinders - 20 of the 22 - are in one building.

“We not only need to get new people in, and there are new government initiatives to get people in, but we need money in people’s

pockets to stop them leaving.“

Ms Thomson called for educators to receive a minimum 25 per cent wage increase, with qualified educators beginning their career earning a minimum hourly rate of $24.38; $3 above the minimum wage.

“It’s very hard to attract people... teachers are much better paid. It’s the educators that suffer,“ she said.

“We like the fact that finally we’re getting recognised in the budget and getting resources, but [the government has] got to

listen to what the sector needs.“

From mid-2023, families earning less than $80,000 are set to receive a childcare subsidy increase from 85 per cent to 90 per cent, with families earning up to $530,000 also provided with subsidised childcare.

Mr Dawes has been keeping bees for some time.

Picture: TANYA STEELE

Residents powering up

The state government has seen over one million people sign up for the $250 Power Saving Bonus initiative with close to 30,000 people in the Yarra Ranges inquiring about the program.

The latest round of the program has seen 40 per cent of applicants find a better energy deal – with thousands of Victorians choosing to switch and save by changing their energy deal through the Victorian Energy Compare website.

More than 17,000 households have already received the $250 Power Saving Bonus through a community outreach partner, with 73 per cent of these applicants receiving additional energy affordability advice.

“The best way to lower energy bills is to look for a better offer – that’s why we’re encouraging Victorians to take advantage of another round of the Power Saving Bonus to make sure they are on the best deal ahead of winter,” Premier Daniel Andrews said.

Across the local electorates, 9389 households have requested access to the bonus in Evelyn, 8903 in Eildon and 8049 in Monbulk.

The most recent data found Mooroolbark residents have been the most keen to gain savings with 3411 households applying, followed by 2738 in Lilydale and 2026 in Kilsyth.

Trailing just behind are Chirnside Park residents with 1685 applying, closely followed by 1195 in Mount Evelyn. Montrose hasn’t quite cracked the thousand sitting at 795 applications.

Applications for the payment can be made through the Victorian Energy Compare website, where customers can quickly and easily find the best energy offers in their areas.

Veterans welcome Budget boost to mental health

By Tanya Steele

RSLs nationwide have welcomed news of funding allocated to the 2023-34 federal budget and Colette Shaw president of the Healesville sub-branch said the announcement is a good start.

“It’ll go a long way to improving the backlog of claims and put some investment into suicide prevention and training programmes,” she said.

The federal government has announced some additional funding to its defence personnel, veterans and their families with $64.1 million in additional resourcing allocated in the federal budget for 2023–24 and $2 million over two years to continue DVA’s mental health literacy and suicide intervention training program.

The budget report highlighted that improving the administration of the claims system was a priority, with $254.1 million investment to modernise and sustain ICT systems.

This was a result of recommendations from the interim report from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.

veterans’ compensation and support payments to meet future expected claims.

Yarra Ranges residents have been applying for the Power Saving Bonus. Picture: ON FILE

Local organisations, like CIS Yarra Ranges, are also offering access to the service for those unable to apply online.

To access the $250 Power Saving Bonus, visit compare.energy.vic.gov.au or call 1800 000 832.To speak to an Energy Assistance Program advocate, call 1800 161 215.

The report focused on the identification of systemic problems and solutions to suicide and suicidality among serving and ex-serving ADF members and was tabled in Parliament in August 2022.

“This budget is addressing some of those recommendations, which includes investing more money into the whole DVA. Our local veterans welcome what the federal government’s doing with their investment,” Ms Shaw said.

The government has also pledged to provide an additional $4.8 billion in funding for

The Royal Commission report pointed to other issues in the Department of Veteran’s Affairs claims process, including the difficulty and complexity of the claims systems, a massive backlog of claims and the inability of serving and ex-serving members and their families to access information about themselves and their loved ones.

Ms Shaw said she hopes the proposed funding would mean veterans would get their claims approved and processed a lot faster and that positive changes could continue for the veterans.

“So hopefully, there’ll be further changes and further policies implemented down the track, but this is definitely a good start to supporting our veterans,” Ms Shaw said.

The Dawn Service at the Healesville RSL sub-branch for 2023. Picture: TANYA STEELE

Car park sale benefits all

Yarra View Bushland Nursery’s Car Park Sale event is more than just a chance to grab a great bargain for your garden.

The nursery is a social enterprise run by Knoxbrooke, a Victorian disability service provider based in Melbourne’s outer east, and every dollar spent will go towards employment opportunities for people living with a disability.

YarraView commercial sales manager Chris Defina said the not-for-profit organisation was one of the largest and most successful social enterprises in Australia.

“We employ around 85 adults living with disability across three sites. Our three sites equate to around 33 acres and produce around 3 million plants per year,” he said.

“We’ve got three locations, here at York Road, Mt Evelyn, on Clegg Road in Mt Evelyn and another site in Wandin North.”

The car park sale, running from 26 May until 3 June, will see the nursery open from 8.30am to 4.30pm each day, including on Sunday, when it isn’t usually accessible to the public.

Mr Defina said “everything we do at Knoxbrooke and Yarra View is about giving people more employment opportunities.

“The more plants we sell and grow, the more jobs we can offer to people living with disability in our own community,” he said.

“The idea of our sale is to draw as many people into our car park sale and offer some huge savings to the public while creating new experiences for our employees.”

Knoxbrooke has been offering services for people with disabilities throughout the community for over 50 years.

Mr Defina said expert advice would be available from a team of horticulturalists, and

the car park sale would create a new environment for employees to work in while having fun and doing something a little different to the normal work day.

“The car park sale is not something that we have done before and we are looking at making it into an annual event,“ he said.

Some of the plants available in the sale include trees, grasses, shrubs and Aussie natives.

He hopes the community will come out and support the sale, enjoy the experience and support the organisation.

“It wasn’t that long ago that a huge portion of the population living with a disability did not have a regular place of employment, and it did not come easy for them,“ he said.

“If you haven’t been before, it’s an opportunity to visit us and understand what we do and enjoy some great savings.”

For more information on Yarra View, visit yvbn.com.au

The nursery is a social enterprise run by Knoxbrooke, a Victorian disability service provider based in Melbourne’s outer east, and every dollar spent will go towards employment opportunities for people living with a disability. Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

The not-for-profit organisation is one of the largest and most successful social enterprises in Australia.

Montrose honours war nurses

By Tyler Wright

Mercy Place does high tea for mums

By Callum Ludwig

Mercy Place Montrose held an early Mother’s Day High Tea, honouring all the mothers in the home.

Scones, cakes and tea were aplenty with laughs and memories shared among attendees.

Lifestyle coordinator at Mercy Place Montrose Deidre Halligan said the event is very important because some women don’t have any family left.

“It’s a way of them celebrating Mother’s Day if they can’t see children or their partners have passed, some of these people don’t interact with each other any other time until there is something like this so it helps prevent isolation and encourages bonding too,” she said.

“It creates new friendships and it just gives them normality in a world that’s not normal as a rule, so it’s very important for their mental wellbeing.”

For many residents, the opportunity to socialise is really important on days like Mother’s Day. helping them to feel special and recognised for the lives they have led and the special moments they have shared.

“Mother’s Day obviously brings back a lot

of memories, special times and special things and a lot of times and special things that they’ll often talk about and share with each other,” said Ms Halligan.

“You can see them at their tables, laughing and joking because they’ll reflect on memories of past or silly things that have happened through the day, but mainly special memories.”

The catering and recognition provided by staff did not go unnoticed by residents.

“It’s lovely that they have put this on for us for Mother’s Day, because where we would be without Mother’s Day and our children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren?” said resident Nantje.

“It’s very nice to be able to join in and share this day with everyone.”

Lighting up more energy-efficient options

Yarra Ranges Council is improving the region’s climate impact by replacing streetlights with energy-efficient alternatives that will deliver significant cost savings and reduced environmental impact.

Since 2013, the Sustainable Streetlighting Program has replaced more than 7000 streetlights with energy-efficient lighting, which has saved $2.5 million and 3000 tonnes of carbon emissions. Stage three of the project will replace remaining inefficient streetlights across the municipality.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said estimates suggested the new system had saved council about $2.5 million so far, and that the new lights cut energy consumption by up to 75 per cent, making this a quick and low-cost intervention with immediate effects.

“Tackling the causes and effects of climate change and working towards council’s carbon neutrality by 2040 is about taking a wide range

of measures across our services to reduce our carbon footprint.”

“Whether that’s making our buildings more energy efficient, encouraging our workforce to try active and sustainable travel options, or reducing waste and recycling more, every action helps our overall aim.”

“Transforming how we light our streets is an essential part of this – not only are the new LED lights more efficient and cost-effective they help to cut carbon emissions. We’ll also be making all efforts to ensure that sensitive lighting for nocturnal wildlife is implemented to preserve biodiversity and keep our regions animals and plants healthy and happy.”

The Sustainable Streetlighting Program is supported by Ausnet and has been conducted in three stages, with stage one commencing in 2013 and stage two in 2017. The third stage of this project is expected to begin next financial year 2023.

The Montrose & District Men’s Shed is preparing to turn an unused area in the town’s town centre into a memorial garden commemorating nurses who have served - and died - in conflict.

With support from Yarra Ranges Council and the Mount Evelyn RSL sub-branch, a garden next to the Montrose cenotaph will be landscaped and planted, with a seat with accessibility and the inclusion of a memorial plaque dedicated to nurses that served in not onlyWorldWars I and II, but all wars and peacekeeping operations.

Montrose Men’s Shed life member Max Lamb said he thought of the idea of a memorial for nurses three years ago on Anzac Day.

“I looked around [and thought] ’wouldn’t it be nice to have a memorial to nurses... we’ve got memorials to the soldiers that served, but where are the memorials to the nurses that served?’“ Mr Lamb said.

“Nurses were killed during the war... they were taken as prisoners of war, so this is a worthy tribute to them.“

Mount Evelyn RSL sub-branch president Matthew Crymble said while there are monuments for soldiers and airmen, nurses had missed out on recognition.

“It’s in a great spot by the cenotaph, so when Max conducts these services, Anzac Day and Remembrance Day, the community can see something significant in the park honouring and acknowledging what nurses have done through all wars,“ Mr Crymble said.

Streeton Ward Councillor Andrew Fullagar said he memorial garden was going to be a “fantastic destination“ for people to reflect.

“It’s a great project... to recognise women in war in this way, and in particular, nurses, what better way?“ Cr Fullagar said.

“This town centre really has been the centre of life in Montrose since it was originally built back in the 1980s, and to have it here seems to be the most logical place to put it,“ Walling Ward Councillor Len Cox added.

“I’m sure it’ll be appreciated over many years.“

Mr Lamb hopes the project will be completed by Remembrance Day on 11 November, and is looking to find information on local nurses who have served in conflicts and war to share their stories on the plaque at the new memorial.

“It’s going to be a nice, worthwhile project for people to come and sit and reflect and perhaps forget about their own problems while they sit and think about what the nurses went through,“ he said.

If you have any further information on nurses that served, or have a story to tell, contact Mr Lamb on 0427 358 000.

Mercy Place residents enjoy a cup of tea before the scones and cakes arrive.

Pictures: CALLUM LUDWIG

For many residents, getting to share the special day with one another made their day.

Yarra Ranges streetlights are getting an upgrade. Picture: UNSPLASH

Mt Evelyn RSL sub-branch president Matthew Crymble (left) and Montrose & District Men’s Shed life member Max Lamb at the Montrose Cenotaph, where a planned memorial garden for nurses who served in wars and conflicts will be located. Picture: TYLER WRIGHT

Drama in the Swiss Alps

The Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre

Switzerland – Joanna Murray-Smith

The sharper the wits, the higher the stakes. Somewhere in the Swiss Alps, a grande dame of best-selling crime literature lives with an impressive collection of books, and a some what sinister collection of guns and knives. She finds solace in her seclusion her cats and cigarettes. But when a mysterious internation al visitor barges in to her home unannounced, will her love of fictional murders become a dangerous reality?

Season: June 29 0 July 15.,

Burrinja Theatre – Upwey

Live in the Lyre – Emma Pask

Award winning Australian vocalist Emma Pask

Kemp’s curtain call

has firmly established herself as one of this country’s favourite voices in jazz. Her effortless, honest stage presence combined with her powerful vocal ability leaves audiences spellbound.

Emma is sure to delight as she interweaves

storytelling through timeless swinging jazz standards, upbeat Latin rhythms, tender ballads and, of course, some raucous blues.

Season: Friday May 12. Venue: Lyric Room

CPP Community Theatre

Oliver

Brining Charles Dickens beloved novel to life, Lionel Bart’s Oliver will take you on a wild adventure through Victorian England capturing your hear t as well as your handkerchief.

After meeting the Artful Dodger and being welcomed into his world of pickpockets, led by the conniving yet charismatic Fagin, he finds a friend in Nancy, but his troubles are far from over.

Antartica book informative and engaging

Ice Bound: The Australian Story of Antartica is an informative and engaging account of the history of Australia’s connection with Antartica.

Written by renowned environmental historian Joy McCann, this is a superb read for all who are mesmerised by the “vast, solitary snow-land, cold-white under the sparkling star-gems; lustrousin the radiance of the southern lights; furrowed beneath the icy sweep of the wind”, as described by Australian expeditioner Douglas Mawson.

No less fascinating than Mawson’s own book The Home of the Blizzard (1915), Ice Bound utilises “stories of exploration and adventure, exploitation and conservation, culture, science and governance” to examine Australia’s relationship with Antartica.

The book also contains more than 200 historical images from National Library of Australia,plus precious landscape photographs and documentary images captured by scientists. It is intellectually stimulating and visually stunning.

The comprehensive storytelling begins with the “heroic era” featuring prominent Australian and international explorers such as Mawson, Borchgrevink, Davis, Hurley, Scott and Shackleton. In sharp contrast are depictions of the gruesome fur and oil-harvesting business that drove Macquarie Island’s seals and penguins to near distinction.

PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

Following the founding of the Australian Antarctic Division in 1948, Australia consolidated its sovereignty in Antarctica by building a permanent presence on the frozen continent. Mawson research station was set up in 1954, while Davis station was established in 1957 as part of its scientific program during the International Geophysical Year.

The ensuing scientific era was a remarkable proof that nations could indeed put aside their contest for territory in pursuit of coordinated scientific research that would yield benefits for the whole world.The 1959 AntarcticTreaty further demilitarised the continent, ensuring that it is dedicated to peace and science.

The resources era witnessed the introduction of other important international conventions aiming to protect Antarctica from exploitation and pollution. Today, the Antarctic

Treaty System reflects public attitudes towards valuing the unique polar environment at the southernmost end of our planet as the impacts of climate change and population increases are felt.

As the book reveals, generations of Australian scientists, researchers and environmental activists have made considerable contributions to our understanding and caring of Antarctica.

Unsurprisingly, there are also countless moments throughout this history when humans became acutely aware of their own insignificance and fragility in this majestic yet merciless land.

But this is also a land of imaginative possibilities, where “one felt this instantaneous fear at the first sight of it, that it would annihilate one; but this was overcome straight away by the sense of wonder in it” as observed by Australian artist Sidney Nolan.

Hence, in McCann’s words, a voyage to Antarctic is “not just a physical encounter with a hostile environment, but an inner journey of personal reflection and spiritual transformation”.

Still, those of us who are unlikely to make this voyage in our lifetime can be content with Ice Bound. This splendid book is a must read for all who want to experience the intimate link between the “Gondwanan cousins” that are Australia and Antarctica.

Join young orphaned Oliver Twist as he navigates all the trials and tribulations London has to offer searching for love, a family, and –most importantly – for a home.

Interesting in auditioning? It is highly recommended that you come along to the information nights to hear the director’s vision, character breakdowns, learn the songs, and dance number for your audition.

You can also book your audition in the night.

INFORMATION NIGHTS;

· Tuesday May 23 and/or Thursday May 25 at 7.30pm.

· Venue:The Factory – Unit 20, 68 – 71 Bayfield Rd, Bayswater North.

Mia movie video game is middling

Mia and the Dragon Princess is a middling interactive movie video game from Wales Interactive, who are the new leaders in FMV (full-motion video) games.

Mia (Noa Bleeker), a hapless barmaid, runs into a mysterious woman (Dita Tantang) with phenomenal martial arts abilities, and must protect her from a nefarious businessman.

In the ‘90s, many developers began featuring video sequences, often with real actors and physical sets, in their games.

The ‘90s saw a boom in FMV interactive movies, but the sub-genre died out by the end of the decade for technological and creative reasons: to fit multiple lengthy video segments on a CD-ROM, you had to compress them to almost unwatchable quality, and most game developers didn’t know how to make a good movie, interactive or not.

Unfortunately, Mia and the Dragon Princess feels like one of those inept FMV games from yesteryear.

As for the positives, the fight choreography is outstanding, Tantang is a great physical performer – both in her fighting and manic expressions – and Paul McGann (who plays the Eighth Doctor in Doctor Who) is charismatic and deeply intimidating as the villain Walsh.

You play as Mia and choose the course of events at several points, but even with these necessary forks in the road, the plot has very erratic, jerky pacing.

Many ofWales Interactive’s games, including The Complex and Late Shift, are fun schlocky experiences, but Mia and the Dragon Princess has shallow characters, incredibly corny dialogue and soap opera-level performances.

The camerawork is annoyingly shaky, and the staging has a poor sense of geography and direction.

You can play Mia and the Dragon Princess on Mac, PC, Nintendo Switch, iOS and Android, but there are real movies and better FMV games that are more worth your time.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Bronze medals for recipient

By Mikayla van Loon

Mooroolbark local Fraser Catton has returned from competing in the World Transplant Games, bringing home two bronze medals in tennis and making extraordinary connections with fellow transplant recipients.

“To be there with 1500 other transplant recipients who are athletes and competing was pretty special,” he said.

“To know that everyone had also gone through a similar experience was quite unique so everyone had something in common right from the start.”

The biennial event was this year held in Perth seeing athletes from all over the world travel to compete for their country.

With events ranging from tennis to athletics, basketball to darts, Fraser said there was truly something for everyone depending on their ability and skill.

“There were I think 45 or 50 different countries competing, so there was a fair bit of talent out there and the competition itself was competitive but friendly at the same time,” he said.

“So everyone was pretty supportive and encouraging but at the same time people were there to do their best and finish what they started.”

Fraser was able to score two bronze medals in the singles and doubles, representing Australia, something he said wasn’t easy but was an incredible challenge.

“The cool thing I really enjoyed about it was the fact that you’re playing with other people who have overcome some pretty cool, amazing and difficult circumstances but they’re giving it their best shot and doing really well. So it was both fun and inspiring at the same time.”

Taking his family with him, Fraser said not only was it worthwhile for him to be able to connect with fellow transplant recipients but also for his children and parents to meet people of a similar age.

Meeting and talking with so many people who had been affected by an organ transplant, Fraser said it really put into perspective how much of a difference it makes to so many people’s lives.

“As an organ donor, you’re enabling this [event] to take place, you’re giving someone a second chance but it’s not just one person,” he said.

“I met a guy there who had received a transplant when he was a young young man, found a wife, had a family and grandchildren now has great grandchildren all because they received an organ donation.

“So it’s just not about individuals. It’s about whole families as well and generations.”

With the next World Transplant Games being held in Germany, Fraser said he’s not so sure he’ll make it there but would like to compete in the Australian Transplant Games in 2024.

For people either waiting for a transplant or considering becoming a donor, Fraser said the World Transplant Games are a real show of hope and of what can be achieved when donors register.

“If you are on a transplant waiting list, just check out theWorld Transplant Games and see what people are capable of doing once they receive that transplant.

“There really is hope that life can not just return to normal but you can actually go on and thrive and enjoy and make the most of that opportunity that you get. It’s a really cool chance, it’s a really cool moment of inspiration and hope for those who are waiting.

“And of course, always, if you haven’t considered being a donor, check it out and sign up because it makes a huge difference.”

To sign up as an organ donor, go to www. donatelife.gov.au

FraserCattonrepresentedAustraliaintennis scoringtwobronzemedalsattheWorld TransplantGamesinPerth. Picture:SUPPLIED

Mental health support crucial for small business owners

By Callum Ludwig

Running a small business can be gruelling and stressful, and it’s very easy for things to go wrong and leave you feeling hopeless and helpless.

EACH is helping local Yarra Ranges businesses by continuing to encourage them to access the Partners in Wellbeing (PIW) initiative, which aims to provide assistance and wellbeing support for small businesses.

Manager of Partners inWellbeing Amanda Thomas said PIW is a free and confidential service for small business owners and their employees.

“Local businesses can call the Partners in Wellbeing helpline to access online support from a wellbeing coach, small business financial counsellor, business adviser or be connected to a dedicated mental health consultant and clinician,” she said.

“When a small business owner is supported to better manage the day-to-day stressors and challenges in their personal and business life, they can lead with confidence and move forward with a positive mindset.”

The initiative was established in 2021 as businesses continued to suffer from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, bringing mental health consultants into industry and employer associations like EACH.

Ms Thomas said small business owners carry the responsibility of running a business, so if they look after their wellbeing, they have a better capacity to make good decisions and successfully run their business.

“A small business owner will learn practical strategies from trained professionals so that they can better manage their business. This also extends to staff, when they feel supported and they look after themselves, it is

more likely that they will perform better and produce better outcomes for the business,” she said.

The services provided through PIW include wellbeing coaches and mental health clinicians for managing stress and anxiety regarding day-to-day business and personal responsibilities, small business financial

counsellors to provide information, advice and support for debt management and financial issues and support and business advisers to identify the business’ position and create action plans.

Anyone interested can call Partners in Wellbeing helpline on 1300 375 330, 7 days per week.

Visit www.partnersinwellbeing.org.au for live chat or to send an enquiry, or make a referral online.

If support is required in another language, small business owners can call TIS National on 131 450 and ask for an interpreter, then ask to be connected to Partners in Wellbeing on 1300 375 330.

ADULT

• Up to 8mm long

• Reddish-brown body

• Distinctive yellow markings

• Narrow ‘waist’ between the thorax (the middle section of the body, between the head and the abdomen, with the legs and wings) and the abdomen

• Transparent wings

• Female has an obvious ‘ovipositer’ ‘sting’

EGGS

• Usually not visible

LARVAE

• 3 stages or ‘instars’

• Up to 10mm

• White body

• Difficult to distinguish from other fruit fly larvae

PUPAE

• Brown shell

• Usually in the ground (not seen)

LOOK OUT FOR

• Puncture wounds

• Rotting near wounds

• Larvae in fruit

• Adult flies

SAVE LIVES.

SAVE TRIPLE ZERO (000) CALLS FOR EMERGENCIES.

• Your doctor can help if you have a minor injury and illness, need examination, need advice or referral to a specialist.

• Your pharmacist can provide assistance and medicines for minor illness.

• And there’s Nurse-On-Call (1300 60 60 24) for immediate, expert advice, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you need an interpreter, call 131 450 and ask for NURSE-ON-CALL.

So, save triple zero (000) calls and ambulances for emergencies. Find out more at betterhealth.vic.gov.au

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne.

Artists explore challenges

By Mikayla Van Loon

The environmental challenges of two distinctly unique areas in Victoria have formed the artistic investigation for resident artists at the Bogong Centre for Sound Culture (B-CSC).

‘Between Two Sites’, an exhibition launching at the Burrinja Cultural Centre on 27 May, explores the environments of both the Alpine Shire and Yarra Ranges Shire regions in a collaborative project from seven female and nonbinary artists.

The exhibition showcases the work of artists Shannon Leah Collis, Lesley Duxbury, Sarah Edwards, Amias Hanley, Anne McCallum and Sarah Lynch, who each completed a residency at B-CSC, as well as founder Madelynne Cornish.

Curated by Madelynne and Sarah Lynch, the exhibition brings together sound, imagery, sculpture and physical experience to launch the viewer into the ecology of both locations.

“The Alpine Shire is regional and Burrinja being [in] a peri-urban[area] I thought that would be an interesting connection, looking at the environmental issues of both sides, how artists are dealing with environmental issues of the various sides,” Madelynne said.

Each of the artworks, Sarah said, are very site specific, with research and investigation into the history of both areas conducted by the artists. For Madelynne, finding an area of interest to base her artwork on led her to the dire situation of the Helmeted Honeyeater in

the Yellingbo conservation area.

“It’s in this perilous state where it’s on this brink, teetering between becoming extinct and the possibility that it may survive,” she said.

“What really interested me about Yellingbo and the bird’s habitat was it’s in these remnant bits of forests, small bits of bush-like landscape that exist on the periphery of farming in a rural environment.”

Madelynne said the “inaccessibility” of the conservation area also “fascinated” her because it required permission to go there to document sounds and the environment.

Using 3D imaging, cabinetry and environmental sounds, Madelynne said she wanted to represent the “artificiality of the bird”.

“It’s trapped in a cabinet to represent its re-

liance on human intervention to keep it alive,” she said.

“I’m creating an artificial, natural environment and all that will be is the gallery itself will be bathed in this green light to represent some sort of idea of nature, this man made environment.”

In other projects, Sarah Edwards is exploring the native plants surrounding the Dandenong Ranges area, cataloging what would have existed. Anne McCallum has been collecting objects and natural materials from both shire areas to make an installation while Shannon Leah Collis has focused on the hydroelectric power history of Kiewa Valley and how the industry has embedded itself into the natural environment.

“She’s done a video installation…It’s quite beautiful footage, even though it’s a [structure]

but the soundtrack really gives the infrastructure a heaviness. It’s like a heavy footprint on the Alpine wilderness.”

Wanting people to understand how artists are interpreting the effects of a changing climate on their environment, Sarah said she hopes it invites people to reflect on their own connection to the land.

“What we hope people take back is to actually pay attention. By highlighting some of the issues that are happening in the environment, if people don’t know about them, then how do they care about any environmental issue,” she said.

“I think that’s what art can do, is highlight it in a way that’s not hitting you on the head but it’s a subtle way to open and expose people to environmental and ecological concerns.”

Madelynne and Sarah said they hope to offer interactional opportunities for both adults and children, with listening walks, weaving workshops and a Helmeted Honeyeater nest workshop.

The exhibition will also be completely accessible, with an audio description of each artwork available via a website for people who are blind or have low vision.

Between Two Sites will be on display at the Burrinja Gallery, located at 351 Glenfern Rd Upwey, from 27 May to 1 July.

For more information, go to www.burrinja.org.au/burrinja-whats-on/whats-on-art or www.bogongsound.com.au/projects/between-two-sites

Photographers express themselves for new exhibition

By Callum Ludwig

After four years in the wilderness, the Yarra Ranges Photographic Society’s (YRPS) Expressions exhibition is back for its fourth edition over the next few months.

The exhibition will be opened at the Arts Centre gallery in Warburton on Thursday 25 May and there will be plenty of opportunity to catch a glimpse running almost all through winter until Sunday 20 August.

YRPS president Rob Wagner said the first Expressions exhibition was in 2015 and they planned to hold it every two years.

“We had one in 2015, 2017, 2019, and then a certain disease came along and screwed it all up and got out of sync, so this is the first time in four years since we’ve actually had a chance to have a go at it again,” he said.

“The photography has been contributed by probably half of the members of the club, in a number of different genres such as portraiture, landscape, flora and fauna, black and white images, abstracts, macrophotography, astrophotography and some creatively enhanced images.”

There is no particular theme to the exhibition, it is simply a collation of 41 of the favourite photos of YRPS members to appreciate and enjoy.

Mr Wagner said YRPS members came from all across the Yarra Valley with different skills and interests.

“The idea of the exhibition is to be a way of giving these people an opportunity to

present their work publicly every two years, which they may find a bit more difficult to do themselves otherwise,” he said.

“The images they’ve picked are things that mean a lot to them, that made an impact with them, or they put a lot of effort in, or it may have been a really challenging circumstance to try and take a photograph or it might be just something that speaks to them emotionally.”

The YRPS vary in experience and ability,

consisting of everyone from retired professionalphotographersallthewaytonewmembers learning and improving with every snap.

MrWagner said if you wanted to start dabbling in photography without actually having to spend a whole lot of money on equipment, use your phone and get started.

“The standard of phone cameras has really improved a lot, and just getting out there and experimenting with it is half the fun of it. Our group represents a real cross-section

of people, but particularly people who are interested in really taking their photography to another level,” he said.

“While a lot of clubs lost members or folded, we have actually grown a little bit over the last few years. It certainly proved that out in this part of the world, there’s a need for and a desire for people to get out and take photos.”

Anyone interested in finding out more about the YRPS or the Expressions 4 exhibition can do so at yrps.org/

Stef Kruger, Jill Bell and members of the Society at their Wirrawilla Rainforest Walk photoshoot.

Picture: SUPPLIED Bonnie Doon. Picture: CAROLINE SENIOR

Shannon Leah Collis’ ‘Kiewa’ shows the “uneasy relationship between the natural landscape and human industry.”

Picture: SUPPLIED

‘Between Two Sites’ explores the environments of the Alpine and Yarra Ranges regions.

Picture: SARAH LYNCH

Anne McCallum’s ‘Ecotone’ is a collection of abstract handwoven objects suspended from the ceiling.

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

No. 2153 9 369 43 2

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Melodious (7)

5 From Stockholm, say (7)

9 Herald (9)

10 Donated (5)

3 Yardsticks (8)

4 Records (4)

5 Image taken of an electronic display (10)

6 Octave (6)

73 5 739 5 6784

11 Amazement (6)

12 Oral doctors (8)

14 Creations (6)

15 Scottish island (4)

19 Idly lounge (4)

20 – scholar (6)

24 Clouded eye (8)

25 Immune system organ (6)

27 Get to (5)

28 Incapable of being seen (9)

29 Territory ruled by an Islamic monarch (7)

30 Settle (7)

DOWN

1 Native American hairstyle (6)

2 Thread (6)

7 Backer (8)

8 Large Australian spider (8)

13 Alluring (10)

16 From the menu (1,2,5)

17 Seasoned smoked beef (8)

18 Fierce storms (8)

21 Chicken breed (6)

22 Small rodent (6)

23 Sternutation (6)

26 Confirm (4)

easy 19 53 1347 78 26

DECODER

WORDFIT

2 514 8 9 97 3

78 6 5 2 395 7

36 52 7 21 3

medium 6 512 37 529 1

hard

65 9 91 8 97

9-LETTER WORD

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in

among, anger, argon, bagmen, bang, barge, began, berg, bongo, BOOMERANG, borage, brag, brogan, embargo, ergo, game, garb, gear, germ, german, gnome, gone, goober, gore, grab, gram, groan, groom, mange, manger, mango, monger, moorage, ogre, omega, orange, oregano, organ, rage, ragmen, rang, range

21 words: Good 31 words: Very good 42 words: Excellent Today’s Aim: 3 LETTERS ADO AND ARE AVO DOE DON EKE ELF ERR FAT ICE NEE NOR PAP RIP ROE RUE SEA SUE THE TIN USE WHO 4 LETTERS AYES DENT DESK DROP GETS ICON MEAL ODES PAYS SEES STEP STEW VICE YENS YOUS 5 LETTERS ACHES ADORE ALIKE ALPHA ARISE CASTE CAWED COLON CRAVE DOLLS DONOR DROSS EDGES ELECT ELUDE ENROL EVENS FONTS GOUGE GREEK HEAPS HORSE HOTEL INANE IVORY MATHS MATTE NOTES OPERA PANEL REVEL RIVET RULED SEEDS SLEEP SPREE STAVE STREW TRILL TRITE TROUT TWEET TYING VENUE WIRES YELLS 6 LETTERS DEATHS DEEPER EASIER GENTRY 7 LETTERS CAPSULE COMFORT CREMATE OVERATE SAUSAGE VIEWING 8 LETTERS ARMOURED DISALLOW SERENEST TETHERED 11 LETTERS COMMISERATE VACATIONING 12 345678910111213 1415 1617181920212223242526 Y J E I C N R S M O P F V U B T A Z W G D X L H Q K 19-05-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com 814976253 521364798 783452961 397528614 436897125 142639587 265143879 978215436 659781342 easy medium hard 894215376 957182463 378421695 215367849 183694527 649758132 736849251 462573918 521936784 679851243 361584927 745296831 184362759 427913586 893145672 532479168 958627314 216738495 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 HK William Matthews Funerals 24 HOUR SERVICE - ALLAREAS 9739 6868 45 Cave Hill Rd, Lilydale www.williammatthewsfunerals.com.au 12567382-JW37-22

No. 133

No. 133

No. 133

HISTORICAL ’KOETONG LODGE’

WELCOME to ’Koetong Lodge’, a stunning property that combines the original historical charm of the home with modern updates and renovations. This property is perfect for families and those seeking acreage living.

Step inside the spacious 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home, and you’ll immediately notice the accent character French shutters and new double-glazed windows throughout, offering ample natural light and views of the picturesque surroundings. The classic Regency wood heater, ambient open fireplace, and 2 Mitsubishi reverse cycle split systems ensure you’ll be comfortable all year round.

The fully renovated bathrooms and new lighting throughout, along with the kitchen boasting a new 900mm Westinghouse oven, Asko rangehood, and Asko dishwasher, provide the perfect combination of old-world charm and modern convenience. The new engineered Sparta oak timber floors add to

the overall appeal of the home.

Outside, the property boasts 2.3 acres of land, mostly cleared with a beautifully landscaped garden, orchard, and dam. The orchard houses 42 fruit trees including a variety of citrus and stone fruits with automatic watering and irrigation throughout, rendering a constant supply of fresh produce. The large water storage, comprising of an approx. 90,000L water tank with pure filtered water and unlimited spring water bore, ensures a plentiful water supply. Car accommodation and storage include a 5.8m x 6.7m carport and a 5.8m x 6.7m workshop with power.

Within walking distance to the township of Kinglake and less than 20 minutes to Yarra Glen, don’t miss out on the opportunity to own this unique and stunning property in Kinglake. Schedule a viewing today and experience the magic of this beautiful property for yourself. ●

DUAL ACCOMMODATION – PRIME ADDRESS

SET on approximately 1105m2 corner allotment with convenient dual access, you will find this outstanding opportunity to purchase a fabulous family home with the bonus of a separate large and self-contained studio.

The classic brick veneer house is in immaculate and original condition with all the character, warmth and charm, inside and out that you would expect to find in the quality built homes of this era. Comprising formal entrance, large living area with beautiful original double etched glass sliding doors, feature ornate cornices, 3 bedrooms, built in robes and dresser, kitchen to dining area, family bathroom with separate toilet plus separate shower room for convenience. Further features include large laundry, ample of storage throughout, gas ducted heating, air conditioning, ceiling fans, plus gas heater inset in the original fireplace.

The separate large studio is newly built with all the amenities that you need for

HOME ESSENTIALS

independent living. Featuring spacious open plan living area with bifold opening doors to decking and garden, a generous and modern kitchenette, separate ensuite, ceiling fan and split system air conditioning to keep you comfortable year-round. A perfect place to separately accommodate elderly parents, adult children or set up as an extra income stream as an Airbnb accommodation (STCA).

Plenty of room to store the boat, caravan and all the family cars with access to the large lock up garage and separate garden shed via both Rutter Avenue and Walkers Lane and all set on a flat, easy-care garden allotment with a beautiful Jacaranda Tree in the backyard.

Superbly located with beautiful mountain views and a peaceful rural outlook to the home, yet only moments to the township of Healesville with its award winning cafe’s, restaurants, specialty shops, distilleries and the undeniable appeal of a Yarra Valley lifestyle on your doorstep. ●

Seton1105m2(approx)cornerblockwithdual access,isthisclassichomewithseparatestudio.The mainhousefeaturesalargelivingarea,kitchento dining,3bedrooms,familybathroomwithseparate toiletplusashowerroom.Theopenplanstudiowith kitchenetteincludessplitsystemairconditioning, ensuite&bifolddoorstodecking.

LISTINGSWANTED

Healesville 1/9McGrettonsRoad

UNDERCONTRACT!

Thischarming2bedroomtownhouseis UNDERCONTRACTwith4offerspresentedtoVendor! Saleinonly2weeks.

Contactouragentstoseehowtheycanachievea greatresultforyoutoo!

Thisoffgrid,contemporaryhomeon10acres (approx)comprises2bedroomspluslargestudy/2nd livingarea,2bathrooms,spaciousopenplanliving, kitchen&diningareawithlargeFrenchdoors.Also includes2solidwoodheaters,solar,watertank, fencedgardens,underground fireshelter,expansive verandah&locatedminutestotown.

LISTINGSWANTED

Healesville 1/105DonnellysWeirRoad

Thislifestylepropertyonapprox32acreswithcountry homesteadincludingmultipleoutbuildings,afully self-containedstudio,a2ndfamilycottage,dairy, machinerysheds&cattleyardshasnowgone UNDERCONTRACT!

Contactouragentsforanuptodatevaluation today&haveyourpropertySOLDtoo!

STYLISH LIVING IN A CONVENIENT LOCATION

YOU will be pleasantly surprised when you enter this home! Spacious living areas with an up to date style throughout complete with kitchen, bathrooms and colour palette to match.

Over the road you can jump straight onto the walking track and wander along the beautiful Yarra River with picnic areas and yet you are also close to the heart of Warburton.

Comprising 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 toilets and open plan living with extra large windows to see the mountains. Step out onto your full length verandah along the front

and put your feet up as you watch the world go by and maybe even catch the occasional sun set. With wood heating for ambience and split systems – all year round you will comfortable.

Outside you have flat grassed area for equipment for the kids, single garage, storage, extra parking and even better views from the back yard.

In the convenient location of Warburton there is so many options and possibilities here - they are endless.

Call now for inspection and don’t miss out on this Warburton gem. ●

Truecountrylivingwithviewsandampleshedding

Positionedonaspaciouscornerallotmentwithgenerousaccessformultiplevehicleswithdivine surroundsateveryturn.Steppinginsidethehomeyou’llbegreetedwithanopenplanlounge,dining andkitchenwithplentyofroomforall,kitchenisoriginalwithlargebenchestocookupastorm.A wood firewillcreateacosyfeelinthisgreatspace.Thereare3bedrooms,themasterhavingalarge walkinrobeandFrenchdoorsthatopenupontothebackdecking...alovelywaytowakeupinthe morning,the3rdbedroomcouldbetheidealstudyoridealfortheteenagertoenjoy.Thebathroom issimpleyetpractical.Thehomeisadefinitetoinspectwithawraparoundverandah,garagewith remoteentrywithinternalaccesstothehomeandacarporttoaddtothemultiplesheds.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

7CecilStreet,WarburtonAuctionSat27thMayat11am

ARareOpportunity

Discoveryournexthomeonaserenestreetwherethis3bedroom,2bathroomresidenceawaitsyou, nestledon997sqmapprox.ofspaciousyard.Youcanbaskinthetranquilambiencewhileenjoying filteredmountainviews.Thenstepinsideandbecaptivatedbytheexpansiveandadaptable floorplan,readytocatertoyouruniquepreferences.Amplespaceabounds,allowingyoutocreate thelayouttosuityourlifestyle.Theheartofthehomefeaturesanopenplankitchen/diningarea, idealforentertaininglovedones.Aseparateloungeroomprovidesacosyretreatforrelaxationand qualitytimewithfamilyandfriends.Thegenerouslyproportionedmasterbedroomoffersanensuite bathroom,builtinrobes,anddirectaccesstothebackdecking.Theresidencealsoboastsawell appointedlaundryspaceandaconvenientstudynook,ensuringallyourneedsaremet.

32EastviewAvenue,SevilleEast$750,000-$790,000

Stylishmodernlivingwithawarmcountryatmosphere.

Beautifullypresentedinsideandoutthisoutstandingpropertywillexciteyoutheminuteyouarrive. Offering3bedroomswithbuiltinrobesplusanoptional4thbedroom/study/office,fabulousopen planfamily/livingareaswithplentyofspaceforthegrowingfamilywithwoodheatinganda splitsystem.Thekitchenwillimpresswithqualityappliancesand fixturesboastinggreatbench andcupboardspace,entertainoutsideinstyleallyearroundwithacoveredentertainingarea overlookingthepicturesqueterracedbackyardwithplentyofspaceforthekidsandpetstoenjoy. Animpressiveentrancewithsealeddrivewaysandplentyofcar,boatortraileraccommodation withadoublecarportandaseparatelockupgarage.Anexceptionallywellpresentedandwell maintainedpropertyofferingapicturesqueandrelaxedlifestyleinaconvenientlocation.

DavidCarroll M 0419539320

WelcometoParadise

Seton1&1/2acresinthemostpicturesquesettingisthisbeautifullyrenovatedhome.Surrounded bymajestictreesandwithaspringfedpermanentcreekrunningthrough.Therecentrenovation meanseverythinginthehomeisbrandnewandneverused.Thisincludesnewcarpetsinthefour largebedroomsandallnew fixturesinthetwowellequippedbathrooms.There’stwolargeliving areas,oneoneachlevel,bothwithbeautifulnewhardwood flooring.Thebrandnewkitcheniswell appointedwithstainlesssteelappliancesincludinglarge5burnerstove,rangehoodanddishwasher. Filteredmountainviewscanbeenjoyedfromthefulllengthdeckupstairswithaccessfromthe masterbedroomandlivingarea.Extrasincludeairconditioninginbothlivingareas,slowcombustion woodheaterwithtransferkitandprobablytheonlypropertyI’veseenwithitsownmine!

3 A 1 B 3 C

HANDCRAFTED HOME ON 10 ACRES

THIS magnificent 10-acre property culminating at scenic Woori Yallock Creek is a breathtaking portion of the Dandenong Ranges not to be missed. Punctuated by a quality crafted mudbrick and weatherboard residence, this is a country-feel property immersed in exquisite local flora and fauna.

This enticing home only minutes from Monbulk township is beautifully presented inside and out.

The ground floor is enveloped by a wonderful wrap-around verandah that allows you to entertain in seasonal sun or shade throughout the day. Those who love to cook for family and friends will be enthralled with the gourmet kitchen with enviable Rangemaster cooker, butcherblock benchtops, walk-in pantry, breakfast bar, and sunny skylight.

For further living space or a bonus bedroom, the upper level retreat boasts stunning cathedral ceilings and a cosy brick fire for winter evenings in, the covered deck is the bonus every growing family craves.

For accommodation, there are generous bedrooms with built-in robes, quality carpet, and floor to ceiling windows plus a bright bathroom with timber vanity and spa tub.

Furthermore, there is an exceptional covered patio in the garden with wood-fired cooker, a double carport with adjoining studio, storeroom, and wood shed, plus an additional building serving as the hen house and machinery shed.

For a restorative rural lifestyle close to local schools, shopping, cafes, and transport, this property promises to tick all the boxes. Enjoy amazing wildlife inc wallabies, wombats and large array of birdlife. Certain to impress, prompt inspection is recommended. Schedule your viewing today.

41,022sqm (approx.) property with 2 outbuildings including double carport, studio, storerooms, wood shed, machinery shed, and hen house

Lush level lawns, brilliant covered patio with wood-fired cooker, and covered verandah that frames the home

Mudbrick ground floor with gorgeous gourmet kitchen with Rangemaster cooker · Upper level retreat with potbelly wood fire and covered verandah

The Property Has a Trust for Nature Covenant covering 8.5 acres with the remainder a domestic area. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

FORSALE

Original,timelessandfilledwithanabundanceofageoldcharacter,thisspacioushome hasseenmanyyearsofloveandlaughterandisnowreadyforitsnewfamilytostepinside andcreatetheirforeverhome.

Positionedwithinastone’sthrow(literally!)fromUpwey’smainstreetandjustaquickwalk tothelocaltrainstationandschools,locationisabigplusforthisproperty.

SharynChandler M 0439882442| E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

Thismagnificent10-acrepropertyculminatingatscenicWooriYallockCreekisa breathtakingportionoftheDandenongRangesnottobemissed.Punctuatedbyaquality craftedmudbrickandweatherboardresidence,thisisacountry-feelpropertyimmersedin exquisitelocalfloraandfauna.

BradConder M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

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

FORSALE

67MartinStreet,BELGRAVE $720,000-$780,000

AFINEFORAYINTOFABULOUSHILLSLIVING

3 A 1 B 1 C

Withmove-inreadyfinishesandamarvellouspositionwithinwalkingdistanceofBelgrave OutdoorPool,BorthwickPark,andBelgrave’strainstation,shopping,andentertainment precinct,thishomeisanoutstandingwayintothiswonderfullocale.

SuzieBrannelly

M 0490506910| E suzie@chandlerandco.com.au

208Emerald-MonbulkRoad,MONBULK $660,000-$720,000 MOVE-INREADYHOMENEARMONBULKAMENITIES

3 A 1 B 1 C

Thisdelightful¼acrepropertyencapsulateswhatDandenongRangeslivingisallabout. Witharefreshedresidencetuckedwithinaleafylandscapemomentsfromshopping, schools,cafes,andtransport,thisenticingpropertyisaspaceforrestandrelaxationinlush naturalsurrounds.Theinteriorofthisstylishhomemakesiteasytoimaginelivinghere.

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

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

BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED FIVE BEDROOM HOME

THIS lovingly updated family home is absolutely move in ready. With a high attention to detail, unwind and relax with the modern colour palette and soft fresh carpet under your feet.

The cleverly designed home offers a master bedroom with ensuite at one end, central open plan living and dining area, through to 4 bedrooms and a second living/ entertaining area.

The master bedroom is spacious with ceiling fan, large built in robe and ensuite. There is an office/bedroom with a pretty bay window to enjoy the treed and private view. The house then opens up with a great entertaining space. The kitchen is equipped with stainless steel dishwasher, electric oven and gas stove top. The detailed ceiling fans in the dining area and lounge area add character as do the hardwood floor boards that flow through this section. There is a lovely sitting area adjacent to the kitchen/ dining area to soak in the sunshine. Then continue to the first lounge room, complete with wood fire heater for cosy nights in. There is also ducted heating throughout for year round comfort. Then there is a great family bathroom, complete with shower and bath, and separate toilet. Then through to the surprise entertaining/second lounge room. This large space is perfect for entertaining with a built in bar and direct access to the front decking.

With all mains services connected for added convenience, there is also an external generator plug.

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. ●

Lovely3BedroomHomeorSubdividethisNearly¾AcreFlatBlock(STCA).

WalktotheCockatooamenitieswhilstenjoyingnearly¾ofanacreoffullyfenced flatyard.Or considerthepossibilitiesofsubdividing(STCA)withthe‘NeighbourhoodResidentialZoning’.This logcabindesignhome,offers3generousbedrooms,allwithBIRs&accesstothewraparound verandah.Freshlypaintedinternally,enjoythevaultedceilings,&cosyuptothewood fire.There isanupdatedbathroomwithwalkinshower&handshower.ThereisanL-shapedloungeroom/ diningroomwithgasheating&airconditioning,&kitchenwithelectricoven.Thereisagreatrear entertainingdeckoverlookingtheyardfulloffruittrees,&rollinglawn.Alsosituatedtowardsthe rearoftheblockisamudbrickstudio,completewithpower&electricheater,adjacenttoadouble carport/storagearea&therearealso3gardensheds.

Beautifullyupdated5bedroomfamilyhomeonalmostanacre!

Thehomehasamasterbedroomwithensuiteatoneend,centralopenplanliving&diningarea, throughto4bedrooms&asecondliving/entertainingarea.Themasterbedroomisspaciouswith ceilingfan,largeBIR&ensuite.Thereisanoffice/bedroom&thenthehouseopensupwithagreat entertainingspace.The firstloungeroomhasawood fireheaterforcosynightsin&hardwood flooring.Thereisductedheatingthroughoutforyearroundcomfort.Thereisafamilybathroom, &separatetoilet.Thenthroughtothesurpriseentertaining/secondloungeroomwithbuiltinbar &directaccesstothefrontdecking.ExternallyisaDLUGwithdirecthouseaccess.Thereare establishedabovegroundvegetablegardens,orchardareaoffruittrees&awoodshed&garden shed.Withallmainsservicesconnected&anexternalgeneratorplug.

13BeechStreet,Pakenham$515,000-$565,000

TidyandMoveinReadyFamilyHome!

Thislovely3bedroom,2bathroomfamilyhomehasamasterbedroomwithsplitsystemair conditioning,&anensuite&WIR.Thekitchen&diningareaistiled,whilstthereisthecomfortof carpetinthebedrooms&loungeroomarea.Thishomeiscosywithductedheatingthroughout&a furthersplitsystemairconditionerinthediningroom.Thesecond&thirdbedroomsbothofferBIRs, &utilisethefamilybathroomwhichhasacornerspabathwithashoweroverthespa,&aseparate toilet.Thereisalsoahandydoorouttothebackyardfromthelaundry.Theloungeroomoffers accesstothe flat,fullyfencedrearyardthroughaslidingglassdoor.Thereisaconcretedoffstreet parkingarea&apedestriangateallowingdirectbackyardaccess.Thishomeislocatedinwalking distancetoBeaconhillsprivateschoolandclosetothesportingprecinct.

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.

105WooriYallockRoad,Cockatoo$780,000-$840,000

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

Mont De Lancey turns 30

By Callum Ludwig

The Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead recently celebrated 30 years since the opening of its museum.

Originally opened on March 14 1993, the museum became the new home of ‘The Wandin Collection’ a collection of items gathered from the pioneering families of Wandin.

President of the Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead Museum Jill Sebire, whose husband’s family were one of the pioneering families, said 30 years is quite a feat.

“30 years is a long time for volunteers to keep something going, and it was really nice to

see some of the original people that started the whole thing,” she said.

Annette and Neville Lord pushed for the opening of the museum, convincing Graeme, Eileen, Olive and Lance Sebire to help chip in for the purchase of the Mont De Lancey homestead and three acres of land on Wellington Road.

Ms Sebire said the museum continues to be important because if you lose your history, you don’t get it back.

“Eventually, there’s no one left to tell you what happened, so it is important especially as we’ve got lots of family histories here because

there are still a lot of people in the district that descend from the pioneering people,” she said.

“I know the Sebires are obviously all interested, but there are a lot of others and I think younger people are looking now to find who was who in the beginning, because it was a big job to come and clear the land and start off and we’ve reaped the benefits of it.”

After the homestead and land were purchased, the Wandin & District Historical Museum Society was formed, with Fred Gaudion appointed as the first president and about $200,000 went on to be raised to help establish it.

Builder Ray Johnston, electrician Rob Johnston and plumber Keith Ross all played a big role in the conversion and maintenance of the site to what it is today.

Annette and Neville Lord and Olive Sebire made Mont De Lancey the beneficiaries of their estate, with their generous contribution a substantial part of the continued works, upgrades and additions to the site over the years.

Long-time president Gordon Chapman and original volunteers Edna and Gwen Parker from the Rouget and Blanksby families were in attendance for the 30th anniversary and had the honour of cutting the cake.

Address: Monopole - 8C Maroondah Highway, Ringwood 3134

Reference: 38424 Mitcham East - O

1.The proposed worksinclude the addition of new 4G & 5G equipment and associated works including the replacement of 3 existing 4G antennas (less than 2.8m long); the installation of 3 new 5G active antenna units (AAU) (less than 1m long); the replacement of 6 existing remote radio units (RRUs) with 12 new RRUs; and ancillary equipment including but not limited to GPS antenna, mast head amplifiers, deplixers, combiners, antenna mounts, cable trays, fibre and electrical cabling necessary for the operation or proper functioning of the lowimpact facility.

2.Vodafone & Optus regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the description above.

3.The proposed infrastructure will comply with the ACMA EME regulatory arrangements. An EME Report and further information can be obtained at www.rfnsa.com.au/3134003.

4.In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/ or comments should be directed to: Reinier Hanekom (Plan Consult Town Planning), 07 5430 6632, Suit 6-10, 28 Eenie Crk Road, Noosaville, 4566 or info@planconsult.com.au by 5 pm on 01/06/23

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L-R: Gwen Parker, Edna Parker and Gordon Chapman.

Picture: SUPPLIED The Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead. Picture: ON FILE

Barkers hold on for wins

By Peter Stephenson

Glorious late autumn sunshine was the order of the day as Barkerettes paid their first visit to Beaumaris for 14 years, looking for their third win in four games to continue their charge up the women’s state 3 south ladder.

There were only 35 seconds on the clock when the home side was one on one with Barkers’ keeper Ashleigh Fraraccio, but she beat the ball away to save the day.

Barkers replied on five minutes when captain Kelly Butera burst through the defence and hit an angled shot wide.

Then on the quarter hour, Selina Barrueto crossed from the left, the bounce fooled a defender and Lisa Walsh hit a shot into the side netting.

Barkers were knocking the ball around nicely and almost took the lead on the half hour.

Barrueto hit a first-time ball to Butera. Her shot looked a goal all the way, but a brilliant flying save from Beaumaris keeper Mia Hartley denied Butera.

The next chance was made by Gracie Touliatos, who went on a solo run, beating off a defender before shooting at Hartley.

Then eight minutes before the break, Butera crossed from the right to find Walsh. She turned and lost her marker before hitting a shot just over the bar.

Then a scare for Barkers as defender Jordyn Clausen went down injured, but she was to return in the second half. Half-time 0-0, with Barkers having the better of the play – surely the goals would come eventually?

Barkers came straight out of the blocks in the second half, with Walsh raiding down the left, sending a cross to the far post, where Alifya Loka shot at Hartley from point blank range.

Then Butera hit a shot over – would the ball ever go in?

Almost, but at the wrong end.

On 50 minutes Beauy broke quickly, finding a forward in space with only Fraraccio to beat. When the shot came in, Fraraccio had no time

to think, and pure instinct saw her tip the ball athletically over the bar.

Then it was brain fade time.

Butera was fouled, but retaliated by pushing her opponent, who reacted as if hit by a sniper’s bullet.

Thankfully the ref saw fit to produce only a yellow card, but it could have been worse.

On the hour, Walsh crossed from the left, and a lovely flick by striker Amy D’Ortenzio didn’t quite run kindly for Loka, who was lurking at the far post.

Then D’Ortenzio had a shot blocked, and Sam Spencer hit the follow-up wide.

Never mind – D’Ortenzio was just warming up for the inevitable.

Eleanor Ridley took the ball on the halfway

line and went on a storming run down the left before crossing for D’Ortenzio, who needs no invitation from close range – 1-0 Barkers.

Beaumaris threatened a little for a while, but Barkers held out and really should have won more comfortably.

Their passing was very neat at times, and the calm presence of Alexis Sketchley at the back snuffed out most danger.

Barrueto andWalsh caused havoc down the left and Ridley was a revelation.

Next up is a home game against top half side Aspendale.

Barkers demolish North Caulfield Barkers travelled to Caulfield Park on Sunday to face North Caulfield, in round eight of men’s state 2 south-east. Brett Tronconi and Paul

McEvoy were replaced by Maxim Solovyev and John-Paul Cooper, as Barkers looked to get back on track after a 0-1 reverse at Mazenod.

Barkers decided to put the game to bed early, and on 12 minutes, Liam Seaye whipped in a lovely cross from the right, and Maxim Solovyev provided the perfect finish with a spectacular diving header into the bottom corner.

Then four minutes later, home keeper Daniel Barr-Waanders lost the ball in flight, Geordie Scott headed the ball over him and there was Solovyev to pounce and make it 2-0.

With only 20 minutes on the clock, Barkers struck again.

This time Marcus Watson put the ball on a plate for Scott, who could hardly miss from close range.

Watson was now getting worried that everyone was ganging up on him for the Golden Boot, so 5 minutes later, he cut in from the left and put the ball across the body of BarrWaanders to make it 4-0 in a breathless opening for Barkers.

Half-time: North Caulfield 0-4 Mooroolbark.

Barkers had the game sewn up already, but 10 minutes before the end, Watson again turned provider, crossing to the far post.

Scott beat Barr-Waanders to the ball and scored his second.

Full-time: North Caulfield 0-5 Mooroolbark

An absolutely electric performance from Barkers, who now have almost the best attack and equal best defence in the league.

It was a different story for the reserves, who suffered a 0-7 loss in the earlier game.

Junior winners over the weekend were boys’ under 15 (6-3 v Collingwood City), boys’ under 14 (4-0 v Maccabi Caulfield), boys’ under 13 (3-1 v Monash City), girls’ under 15 (4-0 v Beaumaris) and girls’ under 13 (5-2 v Malvern City).

Next week, the women are at home to Aspendale (Friday 8.30 pm) and the men are at home to Heatherton United (Saturday 1 pm and 3 pm).

See you down the Kennel.

Fourth-placed Lilydale junior doubles snatch a draw

By Joanna Campe

Round 3 results for Lilydale Tennis Club in the Eastern Region Tennis competition.

With last week being a washout, all teams were keen to get back on the court.

Junior Open Singles Doubles (JOSD4) v Montrose

After round two this team was sitting outside the top four on the ladder.

Lilydale was represented by Alex Paladino, Rishabh Chowdhury, Joshua Jamieson and Adam Paladino.

It was a competitive match with both teams winning 4 sets each. However, Montrose won the day 37 games to 31.

Result: 6-7, 6-1, 6-1, 6-2, 1-6, 1-6, 6-1, 5-7

Junior Open Doubles (JOD8) v Miller Park

After round two this team was sitting in fourth place on the ladder.

Lilydale was represented by Lachie Sweet, Ivy Pieper, Ryan Taylor and Alex Bowyer.

Lilydale played away at Miller Park. In a very close match, it ended in a draw with both teams winning 3 sets each and 29 games.

Result: 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 2-6, 6-4, 5-6

Open Rubbers 13 (OR13) v Donvale

After round 2 this team was sitting outside the top 4 on the ladder.

Lilydale was represented by David Halkidis and Noah Burow.

Lilydale played away against Donvale. At the end it was three sets all, but Lilydale won the day, 23 games to 21.

Result: 0-6, 2-6, 6-2, 0-1 (super tiebreak), 7-6, 6-2

Open Rubbers 14 (OR14) v Heathmont Blue

After round two this team was sitting in third place on the ladder.

Lilydale was represented by James Buck-

land and Alex Jerin.

Lilydale played at home against Heathmont Blue. It was a tough match with Heathmont winning 4 sets to 1.

Result: 6-2, 3-6, 1-6, 1-6, 2-6

Open Rubbers 20 (OR20) v Wonga Park

After round two this team was sitting in second place on the ladder.

Lilydale was represented by Levi Daly and Tim Bassett.

Lilydale played at home against East Ring-

wood. The first three sets were close, however, unfortunately our player, Tim had to retire hurt so the last two sets were forfeited, 6-0.

Result: 2-6, 5-7, 1-6, 6-0, 6-0

Open Rubbers 24 (OR24) v Ferntree Gully

After round two this team was sitting outside the top four on the ladder.

Lilydale was represented by Harry Trevillyan and Jack Dowthwaite.

Lilydale played at home against Ferntree Gully. Lilydale played well but went down

3 sets to 2, with Ferntree Gully winning 23 games to 18.

Result: 5-7, 0-6, 1-6, 6-2, 6-2

Lilydale Tennis club welcomes all players of any age and ability. For information on how to join Lilydale Tennis Club, visit play.tennis. com.au/lilydaletennisclub

For all coaching enquires (juniors and adults), contact Andrew at Pro Touch Tennis Academy ptta.com.au/contact

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Joshpreparestoreturn.

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AfiercebackhandfromRisabh.L-R:LachieSweet,IvyPieper,RyanTaylorand AlexBowyer.

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Healesville’s Parkrun joy

By Tanya Steele

Parkrun is coming to picturesque Maroondah Dam at Healesville

The globally renowned Parkrun will start in Heasleville at the iconic and spectacular Maroondah Dam on Saturday 27 May at 8am.

Organiser and Healesville resident Stuart Rainbow is happy the well known recreational run will have a place in Healesville for the first time.

“No one will be getting a personal best from it, but the run, with its amazing scenery, will be spectacular,” he said.

“I think it is one of the most amazing spots to have a run.”

Mr Rainbow is a long time runner and thanked Eastern Health for contributing funding towards getting things going.

“We couldn’t have done it without them,” he said.

Lesley Grimes at the Belgravia Leisure Center was part of the collaboration with Mr Rainbow, Eastern Health and Yarra Ranges Council to get the event off the ground.

“We’re really excited that it’s happening, Parkrun is a real community and all volunteerbased,” Ms Grimes.

Parkrun is an inclusive way to exercise and also connect with people.

“You can go for a Saturday morning work and I think it will be a great way for people to come and connect,” Mr Rainbow said.

People can walk, jog or run and bring their children in a pram along as well, there is no time limit and nobody finishes last.

Parkrun was founded originally in 2004 in London, England by Paul Sinton-Hewitt and has grown to take place across over 2000 locations in 22 countries across the globe.

Australia joined in the fun in 2011 and over 5 million runners had registered for it by 2018.

Other Parkruns in the region take place at Lilydale Lake and Birdsland Reserve.

Mr Rainbow has been preparing to launch the Parkrun for over a year and looked at a few different sites before settling

on Maroondah Dam.

“Maroondah Dam ticked all the boxes, it has all the amenities,” he said.

“It is such a magnificent run, it is just stunning,” he said.

Mr Rainbow hopes people locally and visiting will enjoy the location and the exercise and that it will benefit Healesville.

“Iwantedtogivesomethingbacktothecommunity and generate something for Healesville that will last forever hopefully,” he said.

People can register on the Parkrun website now and change their location to Maroondah Dam in a few weeks when the site goes live officially.

Mr Rainbow encouraged people who would like to volunteer to get in the register for a day or two.

The first run will take place on Saturday 27 May and people need to take their registered barcode along for the day.

“People are in for a treat,” Mr Rainbow said.

Lilydale Handicap Shield team downed by Ringwood

On Thursday 11 May the Lilydale Handicap Shield Team played away at Ringwood Croquet Club.

This was the last week of the home and away series, and although Lilydale could not lose the top spot on the ladder, Ringwood was desperate to win so that they would finish second and play in the finals.

In the first game, Lilydale’s Craig McCracken gave away three extra turns to his opponent.

Ringwood started very well and had the first three hoops before Craig could score.

Ringwood used their three extra turns wisely and kept Craig at bay.

Ringwood went on to win the game, 7 hoops to Lilydale’s 3 hoops.

In the first of the doubles, John Thomson and Alan Jones teamed up for Lilydale.

These two have not played a lot of doubles together this season.

Lilydale ran the first hoop but the Ringwood pair played well and with a combined four extra turns were slowly getting on top of John and Alan.

Ringwood won, 7 hoops to Lilydale 5 hoops.

AlanJonesplayedinthenextsinglesgame.

The game was close, Alan was playing well

even though he gave away four extra turns to his Ringwood opponent.

Alan was able to run a couple of crucial hoops to get in front and win, 7 hoops to Ringwood 5 hoops.

In the next doubles game, Murray Howlett and Craig McCracken teamed up for Lilydale.

Murray and Craig gave away a combined

four extra turns and again with the Ringwood pair playing well and using their extra turns wisely, they were able to win, 7 hoops to Lilydale’s 5 hoops.

At the break, it was Ringwood 3 games 26 hoops to Lilydale 1 game 20 hoops.

With two games to play Lilydale was looking down the barrel, they were going to have

to win the remaining 2 games and win them comfortably to make up the hoop count as well.

Murray Howlett was playing in this singles game and he was giving away five extra turns to his Ringwood opponent. Murray was playing well and forced his opponent to waste his extra turns in desperation to win the game. Lilydale 7 hoops to Ringwood 5 hoops.

In the last game, Lilydale had to win and also make up at least four hoops to win the day, a big ask especially seeing that Ringwood had a combined four extra turns to help them.

Ringwood started strongly and had the first four hoops before Lilydale scored, Lilydale fought back and levelled the score at 5 all, Ringwood then used the last of their extra turns to help them win the game, 7 hoops to Lilydale 5 hoops.

The final score for the day was Ringwood 4 games 38 hoops to Lilydale 2 games 32 hoops.

This win puts Ringwood into second spot and will play semi-finals next week, as will Lilydale who finished in the top spot.

The semi-finals will be played at Ringwood and will be against the top two teams from the Western Division.

Cross country fun in the sun for Yarra Ranges athletes

By Jamie Strudley

This week’s Saturday morning cross country had everything that makes cross country running fantastic. A cold morning broken by warm sunshine as athletes prepare for their events. A challenging, hilly course around Morrison Reserve parkland encompassing some mud, water crossing and plenty of ups and downs and athletes, young and old, all with a smile on their face after conquering the course.

It is all part of the fun Yarra Ranges Athletics creates every Saturday morning. With distances over 500m, 1000m, 1500m, 2000m and 3000m, there is something for everyone regardless of age or ability Anyone and everyone is invited to participate or help run the events.

This week was Morrison Reserve, Mt Evelyn, next week we return to Lillydale

for the first opportunity for a PB and claim a

chocolate frog or mintie reward. Congratulations to everyone who ran, marshalled or supported this week. Anyone

wanting and able to help with setup can join from 7.30am or add your name to the helpers list via socials media.

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.

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Athletes starting their second lap at Morrison Reserve.

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Craig McCracken about to run a hoop.

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Mr Rainbow is a long time runner. Picture: SUPPLIED