Mail - Lilydale Star Mail - 23rd May 2023

Lucy’s sad legacy

By Tyler Wright

A Lilydale family is calling for more awareness of paediatric cancers during Brain Tumour Awareness Month.

Nicole and Brian McAleer’s eldest daughter Lucy passed away on Saturday 12 March 2022 at eight years old, after a diagnosis of a devastating form of brain cancer, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), in July 2021.

Lucy was a student at Mount Evelyn Primary School and loved Harry Potter, green sea turtles and basketball.

After being hit in the head at by a ball at basketball training one Monday night, Lucy appeared to be concussed and started falling over.

Showing signs of fatigue, dizziness and slurred speech, an MRI soon confirmed a lump had formed.

Nicole said the past year has been “incredibly difficult” without their daughter.

“We have experienced all the firsts, had to navigate life without Lucy while still being parents to our other two girls Olivia (eight) and Amelia (just turned four). As children they deal with grief and their own understanding very different to us as adults so that has also been a challenge,” Nicole said.

“There have been huge amounts of support from family, friends, school community and the local community which has been incredible. From fundraising events including a car cruise, basketball game and Irish dancing events plus more, it has been overwhelming and heartwarming knowing how many people are out there wanting to help.”

Nicole said over the past year, there have sadly been more children diagnosed and pass away from the “cruel disease” which affects 20 Australian children and their families each year.

Most children will die from the disease with-

in 12 months of diagnosis.

“When you look at statistics for funding (from the government) for cancer as a whole, very little is given to paediatric cancer and even less into brain cancer with even less again into

DIPG. DIPG has had the same outcome as it did more than 50 years ago,” Nicole said.

“The same palliative care treatment being radiation which at best, buys a patient an extra 3-4 months of quality time before progressing and them going downhill usually very quickly. This needs to change.

“Since 2015, the government has invested less than $1 million into DIPG. It is completely unacceptable.

‘‘Leukemia has gone from a 10 per cent survival rate to a 90 per cent survival rate which is phenomenal. But brain cancers survival rate is sadly no different to over 30 years ago.

Continued page 3

Eight-year-old Mount Evelyn Primary School student Lucy McAleer died on 12 March 2022 after being diagnosed with a devastating form of brain cancer in July 2021. Picture: SUPPLIED

Lucy’s parents Brian (left) and Nicole (right) are calling for more government funding into DIPG research.

Lucy’s sad legacy

From page 1

During Brain Tumour Awareness Month, people will ‘Go Grey in May’ to raise funds for childhood brain cancer.

Nicole is encouraging people to wear DIPG badges not just throughout May, but all year round to raise awareness.

“Mine stays on my bag all year,” she said.

“We do not want other families to have to go through what we and so many families have gone through, or are going through. And we know there are so many children yet to be diagnosed yet.”

Nicole said there are scientists in the country working on effective treatment.

“Matt Dun from Newcastle founded RUN DIPG when his own daughter Josue was diagnosed with DIPG. He is a scientest researcher and was researching other cancers and immediately switched to focus on helping his own daughter.

“Since then he and his team have come up with a drug trial combination which proves effective for some time. However this trial was made available overseas before it came here.

“This disease doesn’t wait for anything. So we need these trials here and approved very quickly.”

Associate Professor at Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Dr. Misty Jenkins, has been working on a treatment or DIPG, with her lab finding some “promising hope,” Nicole said.

“There looks like a trial is ready to start soon. However, its the hurdles that need to be jumped in order to get the trial approved and begun that take so long which results in more children dying which is not good enough,” she said.

“We need these trials approved straight away to get our children onto them to give families some sort of hope.”

Known as a jokester and entrepreneur, Lucy and her dad created a joke book before her death, with the family raising $800 in donations in exchange for the book at her funeral.

“Lucy’s joke book has been very popular. We’ve sold them at a few places. Swimming, events, school and online,” Nicole said.

“They are a great little gift and the kids love the Dad jokes in them.”

The McAleers are selling candles named ‘Light for Lucy’ with profits going to RUN DIPG.

Lucy’s books are also for sale for $3 each or two for $5, with all proceeds going straight to RUN DIPG.

‘Light for Lucy’ candles are available at http://www.lucyslegacy.net/lucys-store. html#/, with her joke book available at https:// rundipg-org.grassrootz.com/lucy-s-legacy/ lucy-s-laughs

Minor magnitude earthquake shakes us

By Tanya Steele

A 2.5 magnitude minor earthquake occurred in East Melbourne on Tuesday 16 May at 11.15 am with an epicentre near Croydon.

Jonathan Griffin, a senior seismologist at Geoscience Australia, said the majority of reports were received from Croydon, Ferntree Gully up into the Dandenong Ranges and a few other nearby suburbs.

“It was a relatively shallow quake, with a depth of about 4 km, which probably contributed to quite a number of people feeling it,” he said.

By 1pm on 17 May over 140 people had reported the quake with a ‘felt report’ lodged with Geoscience Australia felt report system.

Dr Griffin said earthquakes of this magnitude are compared to the larger rumbling of a truck by people who experience them.

“You might get that little shake going through your house, that is what you feel,” he said.

Dr Griffin said that oftentimes people will

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also hear a thunder like sound or rumble for shallow earthquakes,

“As the ground shaking travels through the ground and along the surface of the

ground, that shaking gets transferred into the air and becomes sound waves,” he said.

In the event of a quake, Dr Griffin recommends people drop, cover and hold.

“Get down and if you can get under something like a table, if you can’t get under anything cover your head with your hands and hold onto something if you can to give you stability during the shaking,”

Victoria SES stated via social media they did not receive any requests for assistance post the quake and they also had many people commenting on their posts about the earthquake and responses were varied as to who felt it and who didn’t.

Geoscience Australia has a network of seismic monitors they maintain across the country and Dr Griffin said the organisation took some time to look at the quake and review that it was actually an earthquake.

“As we reviewed that we were able to see the felt reports coming in and it was nice to get that community input as well,” he said.

Failure To Vote Notices sent

People who missed heading to the polls at the 2022 state election will soon be asked to explain their absence, and risk being fined if their answer isn’t justified.

A total of 288,511 Victorians have received an Apparent Failure To Vote Notice (AFTVN) from the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC), including 2404 in the Evelyn electorate and 2536 in Croydon.

Recipients have 28 days to respond to the notice with a detailed explanation of why they failed to vote, with people failing to respond or not providing a valid reason to receive a $92 fine.

The VEC will not fine people who failed to vote because they were not inVictoria on election day, were enrolled as a person with no fixed address or overseas voter, applied for a postal vote but their application was received late or rejected, or had a valid and sufficient excuse for not voting.

Valid excuses include that the voter was ill, disabled or infirm and therefore unable to vote, was unable to vote for religious reasons, the voter was over the age of 70 at the time of the election, the voter was affected by flooding in Victoria during the election period, had caring responsibilities, suffered an unexpected event, had a lack of secure housing, or the voter was bereaved, incarcerated or suffering from family violence.

The VEC encourages people to provide evidence when submitting their detailed explanations.

National Volunteer Week

National Volunteer Week was held from 15 to 21 May and is Australia’s largest celebration of volunteering.

With a theme in 2023 of The Change Makers, the week-long event recognises the support that millions of volunteers throughout Australia provide to their communities and encourage people to join in.

Police looking for woman known to frequent Yarra Valley

Police are calling on public assistance to help locate AlisonWright and have released a photo of the 57-year-old.

She is known to frequent the Healesville and Melbourne areas.

Wright has no fixed address and is wanted on a warrant in relation to failing to appear in court for traffic-related offences.

Wright is described as Caucasian in appearance, with a medium build, brown eyes and curly dark hair.

Investigators have released an image of Wright in the hope someone may have information on her current whereabouts.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com.

au

Burst water main

Yarra Valley Water responded to a large water main that burst on Poyner Avenue in Lilydale.

The burst may have affected water pressure in the area on Wednesday 17 May.

Reports on who felt the quake were varied. Picture: VICTORIA SES

Lucy (middle) with her parents (back) and sisters Olivia, (left) now eight, and Amelia (right), now four.

Kiosk closes on high note

By Callum Ludwig

A sad farewell was held at Maroondah Hospital on Monday 16 May, as the much-loved Auxiliary Kiosk was closed after 45 years of service.

By running the kiosk in the hospital foyer, selling gifts and goods and holding raffles, the volunteers at the kiosk raised about $5 million for upgrades at the hospital.

Auxiliary president Denise Curran said it’s been a great journey and it’s very sad that the kiosk will be closed.

“I started at the kiosk in 1999, I just wanted to come and help the community and have been there ever since, going from president to vice president and now president again,” she said.

“It’s just been so fulfilling, it’s just been great to see how we’ve improved the hospital by updating the equipment, so many good memories and so much achieved.”

Equipment bought for the hospital through kiosk fundraisers has ranged from big buys like a Navigator Wireless System for instantaneously sending crucial information to surgeons during procedures, to small quality-oflife purchases that just make a hospital visit a bit easy on all, like chairs for the pharmacy. Other purchases included trauma stretchers, a paediatric crash cart and various equipment and furniture.

Ms Curran said seeing the hospital continue to thrive will still be important to her and other kiosk volunteers.

“It’s our local hospital, I’ve been a patient here four times, and I’ve just been treated so well, they treated me like a queen and went out of their way to make sure I was comfortable,” she said.

“My children have been here and my grandchildren, I’ve really enjoyed myself here because the staff make you feel so welcome.”

The kiosk volunteers had one touching

parting gift for the Maroondah Hospital, two tubs of handmade teddies and rugs for children who require care at the hospital and a cheque for $11,000. Volunteers were thanked at the farewell with certificates of recognition and awards for years of service.

Chief Executive at Eastern Health David Plunkett said the decades of commitment from the people who have worked through the auxiliary to provide service and care for pa-

tients has been extraordinary.

“I find it incredibly humbling to see people give so much of themselves, there’s nothing more precious than time and these people have given so much of theirs to patients and families who need that bit of extra support, that smiling face, that friendly, warm welcome,” he said.

“No one really wants to go the hospital if you can get away with not going, but where so

much is given by our volunteers providing the little bit of icing on the cake to make that experience a really positive one and can do the things the staff, unfortunately, don’t have the time to.”

Eastern Health and Maroondah Hospital are still keen to grow their volunteer base and anyone interested can email volunteers@easternhealth.org.au or call the Volunteer Services Team at 9895 4658.

New van carries the load for Mooroolbark Men’s Shed

By Tyler Wright

Mooroolbark Men’s Shed members are now able to transport heavy loads of timber and other goods with a new van on hand.

President Ken Reid said the association bought the vehicle from a local family three weeks ago while collecting a “huge amount of timber”.

“It’s 42 years old, but he kept it. He never drove it in the rain. He always had it in the shed, kept it in the shed at night and he even had cardboard around the side so it didn’t get scrapped. It was like new,“ Mr Reid said.

“It hadn’t done 100,000 kms and it was still registered, so we got a roadworthy on it and proceeded to get it changed over.” Mr Reid said the men’s shed would use the van to transport goods to the sale they hold every second Saturday outside Coles in Mooroolbark.

“That’s how we fund the place to buy new equipment,“ he said.

“[The van is] ideal for the men’s shed...it gets used all the time for picking up material,

Senator Linda White

timber... ladies ring up and say ‘look, I’ve got a shed full of stuff, can you come and take all the saws?’“

The Mooroolbark Men’s Shed produces

bird feeders, dog bowl holders and breadboard boxes, taking orders for useful objects to keep the hub alive.

“We’ve got a 91 and a 92-year-old here... nthey can turn things out as quick as a flash,“ Mr Reid said.

“The 92-year-old is the wood turning champion of Australia. He’s had books written about him. Cliff Walsh is his name.

“We’ve got Ed Slinger. He used to teach at Mooroolbark Tech School when it was here, and he’s 91.“

Mr Reid said the group was formed to promote men’s health in the community.

“It’s a loneliness, of course, when your partner is gone.

“It is a daunting time, so they find a lot of happiness being around us and having a chat.“

Mooroolbark Men’s Shed Vice President Peter Gray and President Ken Reid with the shed’s newly purchased van. 335631 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

L-R: Maria Vissariou Nurse Unit Manager, Denise Curran, Auxiliary President and Morven Duncan, Associate Program Director of Acute and Aged Medicine with the kiosk’s parting gift. Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

Leeanne is giving back

By Callum Ludwig

Volunteers are a symbol of selflessness and service for us all, dedicating their time to the betterment of others.

At Mercy Place in Montrose, the team wanted to recognise Leeanne Green who volunteers to help host an arts and crafts session for residents every Thursday morning.

Ms Green became interested in volunteering at the aged care when visiting the mother of a friend.

“I saw the cards at the front of a reception area which was handmade by some of the volunteers, but they didn’t have a lot of them.

“I’d taken up card making for myself and had a huge bulk of them and didn’t know who to give them to so asked them if would they like them at the reception,” she said.

“Then Dee (Halligan) contacted me and wanted to know if I would be interested in coming in to help the craft ladies, so I came along just to have a look, see what it was to start with and loved it.”

Ms Green started volunteering at Mercy Place in November 2022.

Ms Green said the crafts were simple but creative enough that it keeps residents engaged.

“It’s definitely a talking point among them. It gets them all interacting together and every second week the men have their indoor golf and the women cheer them on. Rather than being in their room and feeling lonely, it gives them something to look forward to,” she said.

“I’m of that age where I’m coming into thinking about my future, and this is the kind of thing that I hope that I’ll be able to have when I get to 70, 80, or when I need extra help. I see these people and their journey, and I just hope one day there’ll be someone there to do this for me too.”

Ms Green has volunteered her whole life,

taking up roles at her kids’ schools, tennis clubs and even a local library.

Ms Green said a lot of people were frightened that they would get overloaded with too much work if they volunteered.

“I only do two hours a week, sometimes I extend it out a little. All you have to do is maybe find a two-hour timeslot and that’s more than acceptable,” she said.

“Aged cares or even kindergartens and pre-

schools need help. The coordinators and all the people in charge are under the pump and just need help, and volunteers are a good way of doing it without throwing out their budget or taking on too much.”

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Mercy Place Montrose volunteer Leeanne Green with the work of a resident.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

RSL sub-branch gets upgrade cash

By Tyler Wright

The Lilydale RSL sub-branch has received $45,000 through the Victorian government’s Veterans Capital Works Grant Program to upgrade its main hall.

Lilydale RSL sub-branch vice president Terry Hickey said the revamp of the main hall - the most used room at the building - is the second stage in plans for building upgrades.

“All of the work that we do on on the club room and all of the money we spend operating the RSL comes from our own resources, we don’t use any money that’s raised in the Anzac Appeal and Poppy Appeal,” Mr Hickey said.

“The building itself was built in 1922, It’s 100 years old, so we’re going through a staged process of updating the building, trying to bring it up to date whilst preserving its historic character.”

The renovation is not only hoped to provide a more amenable facility for the RSL’s members and guests, Mr Hickey said, but will be made available for smaller community groups for meetings.

“We got a grant from the Victorian government and we created a multimedia facility where we set up a program of schools visits for school children to come in, sit down, touch and handle memorabilia...be able to ask veterans questions,” he said.

“The programs have been designed by a military historian in consultation with schools, and designed to fit in with their curriculum.

“The local schools really support it.... It’s just everything, we couldn’t operate without that sort of support.”

Mr Hickley also said there are plans to install a memorial garden at the front of the RSL building in consultation with Lilydale Primary School.

“Hopefully it’ll take two or three years overall to complete everything, but hopefully we’ll end up with an RSL that the community can be rightly proud of and something that’s reposed to the community, the support they give to us.”

Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman announced on Friday 12 May the Labor Government will fund 31 projects through the Veterans CapitalWorks Grant Program, which funds facility upgrades of up to $50,000 for not-forprofit and ex-service organisations.

“We’re proud to support projects that provide veterans and their families with access to modern, accessible and efficient facilities and all Victorians can pay their respects, learn about history and acknowledge the service and sacrifice of our veterans,” Ms Suleyman said.

The Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour Grant Program will also inject more than $324,000 in shared funding for 13 organisations, going towards projects that restore or improve war memorials, honour rolls and avenues of honour across the state.

There are 11 organisations across the state receiving funding through the Victoria Remembers Grant Program, which provides grants of up to $30,000 for projects commemorating veterans’ service or educating Victorians about the contributions that veterans and their families have made.

Applications for Victoria Remembers are assessed by the Victorian Veterans Council, an

independent body that provides advice to the government on issues affecting the Victorian veteran community.

Member for Easter Victoria Harriet Shing said RSL sub-branches are “treasured” and “inclusive” pillars in local communities.

“This funding for the Lilydale RSL will enable them to continue their extraordinary work,” Ms Shing said.

Mother’s Day sale a sell-out

By Tanya Steele

Mother’s Day was bright for all in the community and the SES Lilydale Unit sold out completely at their fundraising flower stall over the weekend of 13 and 14 May.

600 bunches of flowers and an assortment of potted plants were purchased at the Victoria Street stall and SES Lilydale Controller Shaun Caulfield was delighted by the community support.

Mr Caulfield said the event has a repeat customer base and it was good to know that people have made ad association with us selling the flowers.

“Leading up to the event I get a lot of messages from the public checking that it is still on,” he said.

The SES has run their annual flower stall over the Mother’s Day weekend for at least 15 years and it has become well known amongst residents.

Mr Caulfield said the support the community provides never ceases to amaze him.

“We ordered more stock than last year and we were sold out by Sunday before lunch,” he said.

Mr Caulfield said the fundraising is vital and helps the SES raise money towards equipment that can improve the SES services.

Local flower growers both donate and sell their flowers to the SES for wholesale prices.

The SES fundraises continuously and at the moment is raising money for a medium size 4WD truck.

Mr Caulfield said it will be a fantastic enhancement to the fleet and improve the capability of the SES.

“The community just continue to astound us with their generosity and we are very fortunate to have that support,” he said.

The flower stall is known and expected by locals and sold out completely this year.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Chris Newell and Terry Hickey out the front of Lilydale RSL’s renovated facade. 335501

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

There are more works inside that need fixing. 335501

Earl of Loudoun returns

By Tanya Steele

The Melbourne Highland Games and Celtic Festival’s patron, the Earl Simon Abney-Hastings, participated in the recent coronation of King Charles in an official role for Australia.

The Right Honourable Simon Abney-Hastings, who is the 15th Earl of Loudoun and Clan Chief of the Loudoun Campbells, said the experience was quite profound and he was humbled and extremely lucky to attend the ceremony in person.

“To be in official attendance as bearer of the great golden spurs, which is a family prerogative for centuries, has been a profound experience,” he said. “I felt very fortunate to be sitting so close to the altar where King Charles and Camilla were crowned King and Queen.”

Games Secretary Alistair McInnes couldn’t be prouder of the Earl and said despite his title, he is a down to earth person.

“He’s brought lots of support to our games,” he said.The Earl attends both of the Melbourne Highland Games and Celtic Festivals in Croydon and Williamstown each year acting as the Patron for the games. Mr McInnes said when they posted to social media that Earl AbneyHastings was attending the Coronation, it sparked a lot of interest throughout the Scottish and Celtic online communities.

“Mainly Scottish, but everyone began sharing the post between their different groups,” he said. The Earl said some of the interest from the Scottish community in Australia in the Coronation and heritage come from a love for country.

“No matter where our ancestral roots originate from, the love of each country is kindred,” he said. “The Scots and Aussies relate to each other very well, we are similar in nature, stoic and proud.” Mr Terence Guthridge, Private Secretary to the Earl of Loudoun, confirmed how the Earl participated in the coronation in an official role.

“One of the long-standing traditions at coronations is the presenting of the Great Golden

Spurs to the new monarch,” said Mr Guthridge.

“The spurs were made in 1661 for Charles II and were updated in 1820 for George IV by adding new textiles, buckles and straps, the spurs symbolise Knighthood and denote the Sovereigns role as head of the armed forces,” he said.

The Earls of Loudoun have been the Bearers of the Golden Spurs at the Coronation of the monarchs of England and Great Britain since the very earliest of times, ever since the coronation of King Richard 1, Richard the Lionheart. The Great Golden Spurs of chivalry have been part of the Coronation ceremony since the reign of Richard I who ruled England from 1189 to 1199. The Earl carried the Gold Spurs at the Coronation and was the only Australian citizen with an official role and said the first rehearsal involved carrying identical replicas of the Spurs which looked exactly like the original Spurs but were much lighter.

“It was such a special feeling knowing that my ancestor (the 11th Earl) carried the spurs at the previous coronations in 1902 and 1911,” he said.

Earl Abney-Hastings said to be working alongside so many noted people, was remarkable, and added to the unique experience.

“Prince William attended rehearsals on the Wednesday morning, (with Princess Charlotte and Prince George) and King Charles come on Thursday for a while, they didn’t stay for long, but it was nice of them to visit and be in the abbey,” he said. The Earl also attended a coronation street party in London afterwards and said the atmosphere leading up to the coronation was amazing. “The excitement building up, the days leading up to the coronation and even afterwards, the crowds of people were genuinely thrilled,” he said. After all the excitement and now back in Australia, Earl Abney-Hastings said it is nice to come home and resume his own routine.

“I always miss home and family when I am abroad,” he said.

He will continue in his various roles as Patron to many Scottish groups and is proud to be a part of the Melbourne Highland Games and Celtic Festival, which represents the essence of Scottish culture.

“I always look forward to the events throughout the year, whether it be games day, dinners, or get togethers,” he said

“He’ll be at Williamstown there with us later in the year,” Mr McInnes said

Chat with Grease’s Doody

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By Parker Mckenzie

Actor Barry Pearl, who played Doody in Grease, will visit Fonzie’s Diner in Kilsyth over two days in June to meet those in attendance, answer questions and tell behind-the-scenes stories from the production of the movie.

Four sessions will be held on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 June, one at each lunch and dinner on each day, at the ‘50sthemed diner, located at 93 Canterbury Road Kilsyth.

Fonzie’s Diner owner Debbie Brasher said Mr Pearl would be sitting down and answering questions from those in attendance.

“It’s good to be able to find out different things about how the show’s produced and the other things he’s done in his life,” she said.

“People will be able to get insight into Grease, Olivia Newton-John and we’ll have door prizes and best dressed.”

Money raised through door prizes will

go towards the Olivia Newton-John Foundation.

Ms Brasher said she’d love for people to be able to come down, enjoy Fonzies and create some memories.

“We want people to come down, enjoy it and have a ball with the atmosphere,” she said.

“It’s just a warm family-restaurant and that’s what we hope everyone gets to experience.”

She said if Mr Pearl’s visit was successful, they would plan on holding future events with people involved in Grease’s production.

“It’s a fun place to come and hopefully we’re having a few little events in the future,” Ms Brasher said.

“We all grew up with Fonzie and Grease. They’re iconic things loved by the older and younger generations.”

Tickets to the shows are $50. To buy tickets or for more information call 03 9761 9500.

OwnerDebbieBrasheroutsideFonzie’sDiner.

Picture:PARKERMCKENZIE

ATthe2023MelbourneHighlandGamesandCelticFestival,TheEarl(2ndfromleft) actsasthe officialPatronfortheevent. Picture:TANYASTEELE

EarlAbney-HastingsandSecretaryTerence Guthridge. Picture:SUPPLIED

TheGreatGoldenSpursplayanofficialrole intheceremonyandhavedoneforcenturies.

Picture:SUPPLIED

Probus Club hits its 40th

By Tanya Steele

The Probus Club of Lilydale Inc will celebrate 40 years on 2 June with a birthday celebration luncheon on the organisation’s Foundation Day, at Fortnums Restaurant in Sassafras.

President RhondaWatson has been a member with her husband David for 23 years.

“It’s been an absolutely wonderful thing,” she said.

The core values of the Probus movement are fun, friendship and fellowship and MsWatson said the committee works hard to plan interesting guest speakers and activities.

Probus members meet at the Lilydale Lake Community Hall on the second Thursday of the month and have morning tea and listen to an invited guest speaker.

This is usually followed by lunch at a local venue afterwards is then a time to further catch up with friends.

The Probus Club of Lilydale was originally formed on 2 June 1983 with a membership of 23 men, at that time the Club was formed of male members only with the ladies invited to attend meetings and outings as guests.

In 2013 the club changed its rules and welcomed ladies as full members.

Probus began originally in the UK at Welwyn Garden City, 33km from London, with the amalgamation of two community based social clubs in the 1960s.

Both clubs realised they had the same social and intellectual needs of retired business men, the inevitable happened, Probus was born.

Bill Molyneaux, a long time member said as far he knows Probus has became the fastest growing Club of its type in the world.”

“Our Club was the 16th club to be formed in Victoria in 1983 and 169th in Australia,” he said.

Ms Watson said she enjoys planning and organising the annual Probus holiday with Mr

Watson, the 2023 trip was a five day break to Benalla.

“We look for activities that are outside the normal tourist list,” she said.

The Samaria Rose Farm was popular with the trip attendees this year, they were able to learn about Damask roses and distilling the petals into rose products.

“We really enjoyed it as something quite different, we were able to view the stainless steel cylinders where they put the rose petals, which then develop into rose water and rose oil,” she said.

Green-fingered Dekoda’s skills honoured by award

By Callum Ludwig

Young Montrose resident Dekoda Bell

has been recognised for his great gardening skills in the 2022-23 Victoria in Bloom awards.

Mr Bell was not only given the award for the Best Creative Garden but also took out the overall Gardener of the Year award.

Mr Bell said his garden has come a long way since he started.

“It looks good now, but it took a lot of hard work. The awards are my first awards, which feels really good, I like them,” he said.

“It took probably two years all up, two years a bit maybe and with all the trees everywhere, I spend probably half a day to maintain it and keep it tidy because I’ve got to get under all the bushes and blow it.”

The Victoria in Bloom awards recognise and reward avid gardeners in public or community housing for their great work with the Best Creative Garden award, in particular, reflecting Mr Bell’s garden showcasing self-expression, uniqueness and creativity.

Mr Bell said he started the whole garden from scratch.

“I dug it up and put all the plants in and it had different coloured mulch, instead of black, it had white or yellowish one which I replaced, got rid of the thornbush and blackberry bush and rake it every weekend.”

Mr Bell’s garden also features a small pond and bridge, creating a nice walkthrough to their front door for visitors to enjoy.

Mr Bell said anyone interested in getting creative with their garden should just have a go.

“It won’t look good when you first start, but if you put in the work, it looks good eventually. I see it and it makes me smile,

and it keeps me out of trouble,” he said.

“My advice would be not to go for all the same plants, go for all different plants and switch it up.”

Minister for Housing Colin Brooks said it’s fantastic to see young gardeners such as Dekoda Bell get involved in gardening.

“Dekoda’s garden in Montrose brings colour and life to his backyard and he’s been able to take everyday objects he’s found along the way and turn them into beautiful pieces amongst the garden, Dekoda takes such pride in his garden and loves sharing his passion with his friends - as well as his own mum,” he said.

“It’s an honour to recognise all our public housing gardeners, who play an important role in growing their community and enhancing the natural environment.”

The first President was Stan Moser from 1983 to 1984, from 1987-1988 Brian Walsh took a stint in the role and is now the club’s longest serving member.

Members take turns within the various roles in the organisation.

The Probus also has an almoner, which means they have someone who will ring and check on members if they are experiencing illness or have been away.

“It’s very important for our members to receive that phone call, it passes a little time for them and means they have someone who

is touching base with them,” Ms Watson said. The club now has a combined membership of about 75 people and is always welcoming to new members.

The 40th Luncheon promises to be a delicious affair with a two course lunch with birthday cake and dessert.

“It will be very nice, I’m very much looking forward to it,” Ms Watson said.

If anyone is interested in visiting or joining the Probus Club of Lilydale, please contact the President, Rhonda Watson 0432404711 or Secretary, Karen Kearney 0467360798 for further information.

Dekoda Bell admires the pond feature of his garden. Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

The Probus has been active in Lilydale for 40 years.

Picture: SUPPLIED

YARRA VIEW BIG SALE EVENT

Sale serves dual purpose

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

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

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

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

Baffling title, good movie

Linoleum

Starring Jim Gaffigan, Rhea Seehorn and Katelyn Nacon

Rated M 4/5

Written and directed by Colin West, Linoleum is a quirky but deeply moving comedy-drama with fascinating layers.

Cameron (Jim Gaffigan) is a middle-aged man in Ohio who hosts an unsuccessful science TV show. When a rocket crashes in his backyard, Cameron decides to finally pursue his astronaut dreams.

Linoleum is an absorbing, subtly surreal

slice-of-life drama. The plot has an almost cozy slowness, immersing us in the lives of the main characters as they weather disappoint-

Undefeated against all odds

Undefeated, published by Professional Migrant Women (PMW), is a collection of 118 stories from 90 migrant women who overcame the challenges and barriers of living and working in Australia.

Launched in October 2012, the book is dedicated to “all the women who are forces of nature, forging their own path through the thicket”.

Although Undefeated is a celebration of the journey and the power of migrant women, it can be seen as a reminder of the invaluable contributions that all past and present migrants have made to multicultural Australia.

Each of the stories collected in this book opens a window to a migrant’s inner world, offering a rare glimpse to their decision and determination to build a new life in a foreign land, the difficulties and disasters they endured, the doubts and disappointments they felt, the opportunities and triumphs they encountered, and the support and guidance they received.

As observed by Fabiola Campbell, founder of PMW: “Migrant women have felt invisible for a long time, and the time has come for them to step up and be seen and heard. As many other women in our society are stepping up to demand equality and claim their space, we, too, raise our voices, because we have things to say. All we need is a space to speak up and be heard.”

Established in 2019, PMW is an organisation aiming to reduce the gap between migration and professional employment for women and to maximise the potential and contribution of migrant women through meaningful employment.

ments and stifling expectations. “Rational” is used as a putdown, and “it’s not that simple” becomes a mantra that Cameron must overcome to succeed and be happy.

The suburban American setting of an ambiguous decade, with strange and sometimes sinister elements, has shades of Blue Velvet. The plot seeds clever details, explores the theme of memory through Cameron reconnecting with his senile father, and strikes a healthy balance between chasing your dreams and accepting what you cannot change.

The dialogue is witty but realistic, Gaffigan delivers schlubby charm as Cameron (and brings a wonderful enthusiasm to his science

CARTOON

show), and Cameron’s daughter Nora (Katelyn Nacon) forms a touching friendship with Marc (Gabriel Rush), the new boy at school.

The ending may lose you: some will view it as a beautiful conclusion that wraps everything up brilliantly (which is my take-away), while others will view it as a contrived cop-out not far removed from the ‘it was all a dream’ trope.

There’s just one mystery remaining: I have no idea why the film is called Linoleum. Slow-moving but heart-warming, Linoleum is available to rent or buy on iTunes.

PASSION FOR PROSE WITH

CHRISTINE SUN

To achieve this goal, PMW focuses on “increasing visibility, representation and recognition of the value of diverse women in Australia”. Its mentoring programs help women of over 50 countries, languages and cultures from all over the world “develop employability skills, build competencies, and rebuild the confidence one needs to take on the Australian job market”.

Particularly compelling are these words from PMW: “We offer a platform for migrant women to have opportunities for social participation, career progression, and access to leadership development. We strongly believe that increasing women’s participation leads to benefits for individuals, families, and the community.”

Perhaps unsurprisingly, many authors in this book identify themselves as “communicators” and “change advocates” who are passionate about equality, representation, inclusion, education and environment. Having experienced the unbearable pain of uprooting and the fruitful satisfaction of having new roots planted, these migrant women are now ready to utilise their insights to connect and contribute.

Waiting for God on stage

The 1812 Theatre

Waiting for God

Set in a retirement home where Tom Ballard has just arrived. Opposite his room is the feisty Diana Trent, a retired journalist who specialised in war coverage news. A lady always moaning. Sarah Chase, her niece, loved her aunt and no matter how much Diana complained she still visited and put up with her aunt’s complaints.

Then we have Jane, the tireless worker who puts up with the likes of Diana and is always cheerful, and madly in love with the chief executive officer, Harvey.

An amusing story originally was a TV series and now a play. Diana Tent, the feisty resident was given a wonderful and authentic performance by Annie Laurenson. Her newcomer Tom Ballard was played by Chris Hodson, a great performance and Chris and Annie had a great rapport which was thoroughly enjoyed by the audience.

Diana’s niece Sarah was given a good interpretation by Rosa Leonardi. Her scenes were great and one outstanding moment when she was having a baby, on stage and very realistic. This was felt by some comments by members of the audience.

Harvey was given a great interpretation by Lindsay Fletcher, who stuck to the rules and did not realise that the housekeeper, Jane, was hopelessly in love with him. A good per-

formance by a man sticking to the rules and not really understanding what was going on around him.

Tom’s son Geoffrey was played by Colin Morley, an enthusiastic young man who burst in and out even if it was not convenient. Morley caught the character as envisaged and kept up the standard of the evening. |

Dawn Ridsdale was Jane, the housekeeper, always cheerful and madly in love with Harvey. Ridsdale caught the essence of such a character giving an excellent performance and added to the enjoyment of the evening. Two roles were handled by Christopher Newport, that of a doctor and the forgetful Reverend Dennis. A funny performance, especially the Reverend. Newport certainly has a great sense of comique and gave a good portrayal of the characters.

1812 Theatre again gave its audience a high class, hilarious and terrific evening of theatre. One to enjoy.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar 3 Meadowgate Drive

CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway

CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar 158 Nangathan Way

CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar 11 The Mall

KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Churinga SC, Russo Place

KILSYTH Kilsyth News & Lotto 520 - 528 Mt Dandenong Road

KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette87 Colchester Road

KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Canterbury Road Kilsyth

KILSYTH TSG Tobacco Churinga Shopping Centre Mt Dandenong Road

LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC 33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC 51-59 Anderson Street

LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale Village Castella Street & Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre 7 Hardy Street

LILYDALE Eastern Laundries. 2/4 Williams Street East

LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre 1 Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station 473 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale 346 Main Street

LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths 31 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE BP Service Station 87 Warburton Highway

LILYDALE Shell Service Station 469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE 7 - Eleven Lilydale Cnr Maroondah Highway & Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE Coles Express 469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe 251 Main Street

LILYDALE Round Bird Can’t Fly 170 Main Street

LILYDALE The Lilydale General 110 Beresford Road

LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery 96 Main Street

LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe 178 Main Street

LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe 222 Main Street

LILYDALE Gracious Grace Castella Street

LILYDALE Melba Coffee House 33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies 7/75 Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE The Mustard Tree Cafe 3/28 John Street

LILYDALE Freda’s Cafe 2 Clarke Street

LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate 164 Main Street

LILYDALE Stockdale & Leggo Real Estate 281 Main Street

LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate 111-113 Main Street

LILYDALE Grubs Up 1 Industrial Park Drive

LILYDALE Olinda Creek Hotel Maroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Crown Hotel Maroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street

MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket 916 Mt Dandenong Road

MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road

MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street

MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent

MOUNT EVELYN Red Robin Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent

MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road

MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale 138 York Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket 15 Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar 38 Bellara Dive

MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart 108 Hayrick Lane

MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark 103 Cardigan Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Express 2 Cambridge Road

MOOROOLBARK Mooroolbark Coin Laundrette28 Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real Estate Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK L J Hooker Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road

Bird Child Spirit grows

By Callum Ludwig

A sound art installation has expanded in the Yarra Ranges and can now be heard on the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail near The Trail Cafe in Mt Evelyn.

Artist Peter Mcilwain’s Bird Child Spirit project was first installed near the Selby Community House in 2022 and is also set to be installed atYering Station in spring andYarraValley ECOSS in the summer.

Mr Mcilwain said Bird Child Spirit was started by the call out for Yarra Ranges Council’s Art Attack grants.

“I install a lot of small speakers, in this case, seven, at a site and then the sound interacts with the bushland, the sound is dispersed and distributed by the vegetation, the trees and the landscape,” he said.

“Bird Child Spirit focuses on working with local young children and their families to record the children making bird sounds. It’s not just give me an owl or do a kookaburra, sometimes the instructions to the children are to imagine you’re a unique bird and are speaking to one another in bird language.”

The Mt Evelyn installation was underway

on 6 May and can be heard until June 4 10am to 5pm Wednesday to Sunday.

Mr Mcilwain said people could experience and enjoy an acoustic space just as much as they could a visual space. They just need opportunities to tune in.

“We’re fortunate enough to live in many areas across the Yarra Ranges where we can encounter large open spaces, and people generally talk about that in visual terms, but of course, there are some amazing acoustic spaces that people can enjoy,” he said.

“I’m trying to promote creative listening, to promote a bit of questioning about what you listen to, what it is you’re actually hearing and your associations with what you’re hearing are and encourage residents to pay a bit more attention to the sounds around them,”

“The sounds made by the children are beautiful and I encourage everyone when they walk in to just enjoy them just simply because they’re gorgeous and funny, beautiful and quietly inspiring.”

Special thanks were given to Tuff Coat Powder Coating for powering the Mt Evelyn exhibition as well as local community groups and families who assisted the project.

Look out for this sign on the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail in Mt Evelyn to hear Bird Child Spirit.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

Peter Mcilwain with the Bird Child Spirit installation when it was installed in Selby. Picture: ON FILE

PEACEFUL LOCATION

SET on 1 and 1/2 acres in the most picturesque setting is this beautifully renovated home. Surrounded by majestic trees and with a spring fed permanent creek running through, this is Yarra Valley living at its best. Two sets of impressive double steel gates lead you into the bluestone bounded driveway which encircles the home and offers an abundance of outdoor parking space plus there’s a double garage and double car port.

The recent renovation means everything in the home is brand new and never used. This includes new carpets in the four large bedrooms and all new fixtures in the two well equipped bathrooms. There’s two large living areas, one on each level, both with beautiful new hardwood flooring. The brand new kitchen is well appointed with stainless steel appliances including large 5 burner stove, rangehood and dishwasher. A complete repaint inside and out tops off the stunning presentation.

Filtered mountain views can be enjoyed

from the full length deck upstairs with access from the master bedroom and living area. Summer nights sitting here listening to the whispering of leaves in the magnificent gum trees will be bliss. Or perhaps enjoy an open fire outside in the park like setting in the cooler months.

Extras include air conditioning in both living areas, slow combustion wood heater with transfer kit and probably the only property I’ve seen with its own mine! Truly a unique and special property ideal as a permanent family home or for weekend enjoyment for all your family and friends.

What we love

Just 5 minutes from cafes and shops of Warburton Main Street along the Yarra River.

· Love the access to Yarra Ranges National Park with an abundance of tracks for walking or riding.

Big Pats Creek is a relatively unknown private and quiet location.

· Love the local birdlife. ●

STYLISH MODERN LIVING WITH A WARM COUNTRY ATMOSPHERE

BEAUTIFULLY presented inside and out this outstanding property will excite you the minute you arrive with a warm, homely ambience that is sure to please. Offering 3 bedrooms with built in robes plus an optional 4th bedroom/study/office, fabulous open plan family/living areas with plenty of space for the growing family with wood heating and a split system.

The kitchen will impress with quality appliances and fixtures boasting great bench and cupboard space, entertain outside in style all year round with a covered entertaining area overlooking the picturesque terraced back yard with plenty of space for the kids and pets to enjoy.

An impressive entrance with sealed driveways and plenty of car, boat or trailer accommodation with a double carport and a separate lock-up garage. An exceptionally well presented and well maintained property offering a picturesque and relaxed lifestyle in a convenient and delightful location, a warm and welcoming property you will love to call home. ●

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.

3 A 2 B 1 C

4PaulsClose,YarraJunction$700,000-$770,000

3yearoldfamilyhomeinYarraJunction

NestledinthecharmingneighbourhoodofYarraJunction,thisdelightful4bedroomhomeistheideal havenforyourgrowingfamily.Thewell-appointedkitchenfeaturessleekcountertops,amplestorage space,andmodernstainlesssteelappliances.Withfourgenerouslysizedbedrooms,there’splentyof spaceforeveryonetoenjoytheirownpersonalretreat.Themasterbedroomboastsaprivateensuite bathroomandwalkinrobewhiletheremainingbedroomshavetheirownbuiltinrobes.Outside, you’lldiscoveralargebackyardonaspacious611squaremetreblock.Thishomeofferseasyaccess toarangeofamenities,includingschools,parks,shoppingcentre,sportingfacilitiesandmuchmore allwithinashortwalk,ride,ordrive.Don’tmissthisincredibleopportunitytomakethishouseyour foreverhome.Experiencethejoyandcomfortitprovides,creatingmemoriesthatwilllastalifetime.

29PatrickStreet,Millgrove$580,000-$630,000

CapeCodCharacter

Fullofwarmthandcharacter,this3bedroom,2bathroomhomesitsonafullyfencedallotmentwith greatsheddingandasecurespaceforthekidsandpets.Abeautifullivingroomshowcasesagas log fireandcreatesarelaxingzonetogatherandthendineinyouradjacentmealsarea.Thegalley stylekitchenhasastunningSMEGfreestandingovenandoffersamplecounterspaceandstorage providingfunctionalityandastylishwarmth.The3bedroomsallhaveprivateJulietbalconiestosit outon,readabookandenjoythemountainviewsandthemasterbedroomprovidesawalkinrobe, andagorgeousensuite.MillgroveofferseasyaccesstothelocalshopsandYarraRiver,andminutes awayfromWarburton’sbestlocalcafes,restaurants,andshopping.Thisistheperfectopportunityto createthelifestyleyou’vealwaysdreamedoforturnthisintoawonderfulweekendretreat.

TonyFanfulla

M 0419870513

nspection:

8DeanCrescent,LaunchingPlace

Neathome,superlocationandmassiveshed!

$650,000-$690,000

Whetheryou’relookingtogetintothemarketforthe firsttime,downsizingorinvesting,thenthismay beanopportunityforyou.Thegarageisgoingtobeacrowdfavouritebeing9x9approx.concrete floor,power,goodaccess,andparkingthisiscertainlyabonusadditiontothehome.Thehomehas beenpaintedinsideandout,allbedroomshaveupdatedcarpetsandcurtainsandcompletewith builtinrobes.Acosyloungewithasplitsystem.Generouskitchenwithlotsofcupboardsanddraws adjacenttothediningareaofferingapracticalspaceforeverydayliving.Thelaundryhasbeen tastefullyupdated.Outsideisafabulousoutdoorentertainingspacewhichreallyisausefulextension toyourlivingspace,thatisalsofullyfenced.Walkingdistancetopublictransport,Primaryschools, andparksthisisasuperall-roundproperty.

GRAND FAMILY HOME WITH POOL

THIS home is searching for it’s next family to enjoy this spacious home. With 4 bedrooms, 2 dining rooms, a study, rumpus and expansive lounge room with built in bar, there will be space for everyone.

The circular bitumen driveway leads up to a double carport for easy access to the home. There is also a double lock-up garage with direct access to the home.

Inside, you are greeted by a fantastic sunken entertaining loungeroom. This room is enormous, and has a built in bar and open fire place, before flowing through to a large rumpus room, currently being used as a billards room complete with open fire place.

The master bedroom with large walk through robe and ensuite, is cleverly situated at the end of the home giving privacy. With the other three bedrooms all offering built in wardrobes and tranquil views.

Whilst the centre of the home is set up for entertaining, with both a casual meals area, and formal dining room with dual butler doors into the kitchen. There is a study located off the formal dining room with a lovely open fire place. The kitchen has stainless steel appliances, a gas stove top, and electric oven, and enjoys a view out to the entertaining area and swimming pool.

Year round comfort is assured with split system air conditioning in the meals area and ducted heating throughout, as well as the three open fire places.

This fantastic home is located on approx. 2/3 of an acre and also offers wood storage, and a fully fenced backyard.

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. ●

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.

EnjoyPrivacy,ViewsandDirectAccesstoWrightsForest!

Thisfantastic4/5bedroomfamilyhomesituatedonapprox.¾ofanacre,enjoysuninterruptedviews intotheWrightsForest.Abitumendrivewayleadstothehome,whereyoucanrelax&unwindon thefrontverandah,beforeenteringthesingle-storeyhome.Themasterbedroomislocatedatone endofthehomewithaBIR&ensuite.Thenthelivingisopenplaninthecentreofthehomewith kitchen,diningroom&twolivingareas.Thekitchenoffersstainlesssteeldishwasher,gasstovetop& electricoven,rangehood&asplitsystemairconditionerinthediningarea.Attheotherendofthe lovelyhomeareafurther3bedroomsallwithBIRs,alaundry,familybathroom,&aseparatetoilet. Externally,thereisareardeck&ahomeoffice/hobbyroom.Thereisalsoagreatdoubleshedwith concrete floorandpower,plusworkshoparea.

WalkToEmeraldfromthis4BedroomFamilyHomewithGorgeousViews!

With4spaciousbedrooms,2bathrooms,anopenplankitchen/diningwithstainlesssteelappliances, agenerouslounge&anelevated,northfacingdeck.Thegenerousloungeroomwithtoastywood fire,&thereisasplitsystemACinthehallwaynearthefamilybathroomtokeepthe3sunnyupstairs, robedbedroomscoolinsummer,&thehomehasductedheating&ACthroughoutfortheultimate incomfortandconvenience.Downstairsisafurtherbigbedroom,orlivingarea,withitsownexternal accesstoalargeunder-coverentertainingarealeadingintothebackyard.Thereisalsoa2nd bathroom/ensuitewithawalk-inshower&toiletandgoodunderhousestorageinthisprivatelower storey.Withafullyfencedbackyard,established,irrigatedgardenscompletewithfruittrees,a doublecarport,afurthersingleOSPspace&alljustashortwalktotown.

DelightfulfamilyhomeintheheartofAvonsleighonover1/4ofanacre! Thisoutstanding3bedroom,2bathroomfamilyhomeislocatedintheheartofAvonsleigh!Asyou enterthehome,enjoythecathedralceilingfrontroomwithitsstylishcustommadebarndoor.Year aroundcomfortisassuredwithsplitsystemairconditioningandalargewood fireintheloungeroom. Thishomeoffersalovelymasterbedroomwithensuiteandwalkinrobe,andafurthertwogenerous sizedbedroomsbothwithbuilt-in-robes.Enjoytheopenplanliving,dining,kitchenareaasyou entertain,orspilloutontothegreatentertainingdecktosoakinthesunshine.Thepropertyispartly fencedandpetfriendlywithacatrunattachedtothebackofthehouse.ThishomealsohasNBN connection,andageneratorinletplug.Thereisadditionalstorageavailableunderthehome,aswell asasinglecargarage.

452BelgraveGembrookRoad,Avonsleigh$699,000-$765,000

34PinnocksRoad,Emerald

$900,000-$990,000

SamanthaScott M 0438680032

CHARACTER HOME WITH HUGE BARN

SET amongst old growth trees the residence has the most beautiful outlook over the near 5-acre land holding. Rest a while and look out from the covered veranda and take it all in – your home.

In a convenient location you are merely minutes to Wellington Road making Eastlink, Emerald Township, Fountain Gate Shopping Centre, a variety of schools and sporting clubs easily accessible. A short walk takes you to the Paradise Hotel, perfect for a Parma and a pot in front of the fireplace on a dreary winters’ day.

The Residence:

Featuring throughout the home are many character references, high ceilings, strapping, timber floors, French doors, porcelain sink and sash windows.

The 3 bedrooms are very generous in size, the main with veranda access, a walk-in robe and ensuite. The family bathroom has a tub to soak in, separate shower, vanity, and WC. There are two living spaces, one

lounge/dining warmed by the fireplace, the other light and airy, French doors opening into the sunny courtyard. The well-appointed kitchen has fabulous storage, Caesar stone bench tops, Butlers sink to tempt all avid chefs.

Infrastructure:

Excellent solar 12kw battery and 15 kw panels, 3 phase power to garage, water tank

Just under 5 acres, paddocks and some bushland, a dam, chicken run and shedding. A huge 4+ car barn with laundry, a studio/ office area and workshop.

The gardens a well-established with pretty colours, camellias, lavender, citrus trees, large old growth trees, maple, oak and more. There is a fenced section for dogs, plenty of parking and much more to discover upon inspection.

6 Glenbrook Road in Clematis could be the property you have been searching for, manageable land holding, fabulous location, gorgeous home, and amazing barn ●

3 PRIMELOCATION BELgrAvE 42BENSONSTREET $760,000-$830,000

LIVETHEGOODLIFEON10ACRES

SUNNY,USABLE1438SQMBLOCK

JanBrewster 0409558805

AvONSLEigh

19WRighTROAd

4BEDrOOMSPLUSASTUDY

$720,000-$780,000

4 A 2 B 1 C 1

E

This homefeaturesafabulousrenovated ensuiteand a greatstudy(homeoffice/ playroom)Theliving spaceconsistsofanupdated whiteand timberkitchenwith 900mm oven/gas hotplatesand a dishwasher,adjoiningdining areaand aloungeroomwith awoodfire.Theproperty hasacircular driveway,with carportaccess,afencedflat backyard and arear deck.Thereare3splitsystems& ductedheating.Onlyminutesto Emerald Township,schoolsand walk intotownonthetrailand exploreWrightForest.

TayTing 0417302112

PErFECTFOrACONTrACTOr/TrADiE!

4 A 2 B 20 C 1 E

Largeramblingnorth-facingBVhomesteadon4.04habacking ontoMonbulkCreek, needingalotofworkbutthePOTENTIALishuge!Extraordinaryfeaturesincludevarious BARN-sizedshedding-16mx8m&16mx8mloft,14mx9mwithtimber floor,underhome MASSIVE20mx12mhigh-spangaragingwithtriplerollerdoorswithamechanicspit& apotbellystove,twodouble+carports,loopdriveway,huge lounge,open fireplace, countrykitchenwithaclassicwood-firedstove,office/study,wrap-aroundverandahs.

grantSkipsey 0418528102

SUPERSIZEME!

5 A 2 B 4 C

Spacious,lowmaintenancebrickveneerhomewithadoublegarageona1843sqm useableallotment.Featuringlargebedrooms,ensuite&WIR tomain,openplanliving/ dining/lounge,roomykitchenwithwalk-inpantry&excellentbenchspace,modern bathroom,separateWC,asealeddriveway,plentyofOSP,hugeoversizeddouble garagewithrearaccess,pavedentertainingarea,7mx6mshed&establishedeasyto maintaingardens.ExcellentwalkingtracksthroughthebackfencetoWrightsForest.

MickDolphin 0429684522

USEABLE¼ACREALLOTMENT

MickDolphin 0429684522

SELBY 189BELGRAVE-GEMBROOkROAD $1,150,000-$1,265,000

SPACiOUSFAMiLYhOMEONNEArLY½ACrE

COCKATOO 22SECONDAVENUE $770,000-$840,000

TayTing 0417302112

CLASSIC CHARACTER WITH MOUNTAIN VIEWS

SITTING privately on almost 2 acres, surrounded by a combination of green lawns, colourful garden beds, native scrub and a stunning assortment of mature trees, this classic 1950’s family home is the quintessential, hills lifestyle dream.

Staring out to a mesmerising view that takes in the distant Warburton Ranges, the beautiful weatherboard home boasts not only three spacious bedrooms, study nook and two bathrooms but also two separate living zones. The formal, cosy lounge room is highlighted by an exposed brick fireplace that takes centre stage whilst oversized windows and a stunning high pitched ceiling wrap around the relaxed family room and allows you to take in the rear yard and all of its colourful glory.

Hardwood floorboards add character and warmth throughout the main living and dining area and run smoothly through the large kitchen. Heating the home is quick and convenient with gas ducted heating throughout and also a wood fire and split system.

A double carport and extra parking bay allow extra storage for your cars and trailers and with the walking trails of Sherbrooke Forest right on your doorstep, you will enjoy all that this location has to offer. Enjoy the space and serenity of this well maintained garden where wallaby’s and wombats wander by and Eagles soar above. Only a short drive (or lovely morning walk) to the Kallista Village and minutes from Belgrave train station and Burwood Highway, this mesmerising Hills property is an opportunity of a lifetime. ●

nestledonlystepsfromBelgraveSouthPrimarySchoolandtheheartofBelgraveSouth villageshops.OfferinganoutstandingDandenongRangeslifestyleaneasystrollfromthe localpreschool,cafes,shops,publictransport,andmedicalfacilities,thisistheperfect positionforthisforeverfamilyhome.

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

M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

Perfectlypositionedwithinastone’sthrowfromUpwey’sthrivingmainstreet,trainstation andschools,thisfourbedroomcharacterhomeisburstingwithoriginalfeaturesandis readyforitsnextfamilytofillitsroomswithlaughterandlove.Sittingproudlyonanearflat, 1340m2cornerblockthathasacolourfulassortmentofmaturetreesandprettygarden beds,thereisnothingyouwon’tloveaboutthishome.

SharynChandler

M 0439882442| E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

Original,timelessandfilledwithanabundanceofageoldcharacter,thisspacioushome hasseenmanyyearsofloveandlaughterandisnowreadyforitsnewfamilytostepinside andcreatetheirforeverhome.

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

SharynChandler

M 0439882442| E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

20JohnsRoad,SELBY $790,000-$860,000

A 2 B 2 C

Ifyouimagineyourselfatanacreagemerelyminutesfromtheconvenienceofbus transportandBelgravetownship,thispropertyistheperfectfind.Animmaculately presentedall-originalhomeonaterraced4,271sqm(approx.)allotmentwith2single carports,rainwatertanks,veggiebeds,andpathwaysthroughlushlandscape,thereare infiniteoptionsofhowthispropertywillworkforyou.

SuzieBrannelly

M 0490506910| E suzie@chandlerandco.com.au

PUZZLES

134 27 8 45 2 7 954 9 125 684 17 31 679 425 1 273 1 easy

No.

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Husks of corn (5)

4 Workers

9 Support (7)

10 Of sufficient quality (2,2,3)

11 Those sharing a house (9)

12 Edgar – Poe (5)

13 Exclamation of surprise (3)

14 Body of water to the East of Italy (8,3)

16 Not belonging to a time period (11)

19 Male sheep or goat (3)

20 Follow as consequence (5)

22 Speed of pulse (9)

25 Avoiding contact with others (7)

26 Print process

27 Complementary item (9)

28 Mystics (5)

DOWN

1 Understandable (5)

DECODER

2 Closest galaxy (9)

3 Public assembly (5)

4 Voter (7)

5 Former German state (7)

6 Social exclusion (9)

7 Discharge in disgrace (5)

8 Bully (9)

13 Central American country (9)

14 Track and field (9)

15 Flowing (9)

17 Shakespeare character (7)

18 Visuals (7)

21 Impervious to pleasure or pain (5) 23

9-LETTER WORD

WORDFIT

19 words: Good

S I E U T D S G D

sues, suet, suit, suite, suited, suits, tissue, tugs, used, uses

gusts, guts, issue, issued, situs, stud, studied, studies, studs, sued,

No. 134

No. 134

No. 134

PLEASE NOTE

advertising a puppy, dog,

Sanders classy at titles

By Roland Smith

After winning the Lilydale Bowls Club men’s Singles Championship, followed by taking out the Eastern Ranges Bowls Region Singles Champion of Champions Cup, Josh Sanders progressed through to the Victoria wide Champion of Champions final.

An amazing accomplishment in itself, given there are over 520 lawn bowls clubs in Victoria with 50,000 plus members affiliated

with Bowls Victoria.

An expert commentator at the start of the live streaming said that the two competitors, Josh Sanders and Brenton Coad... “have not lost a game of singles for a long, long time.”

He went on to say that the Champion of Champions Final “is the best State event you can win!”

These words certainly set the scene for a classic final that was about to be played

out before our eyes.

After 10 ends the scores were level at 8 shots a piece. Brenton had won 5 ends, Josh 4 with one dead end when Brenton killed it with a drive to break the two close shots Josh was holding in the head.

After 17 ends and over an hour of play, the score was 13 – 14 Brenton’s way. Both competitors were taking it in turn winning ends by the narrowest of margins.

Into the third hour and after 27 ends it could have gone either way, with the score a nail biting 18 – 20. On the penultimate end, Brenton broke free from the long tight tussle, gaining 4 shots before taking the victory with another shot on the final end, taking it home 18 – 25. Congratulations to Brenton and well done to Josh for holding on for so long against the elite, without losing a game leading up to the Final. Josh, you did the Lilydale Bowls Club and the Eastern Ranges proud.

Helga Spitzer, 95, and still tearing it up in table tennis

By Callum Ludwig

A veteran of the Croydon and Districts Table Tennis Association is celebrating a milestone birthday and has no plans of retiring from the sport anytime soon.

Helga Spitzer turned 95 on Monday 22 May and still regularly competes in the senior pennant competition on Mondays andThursdays.

Ms Spitzer started playing table tennis on her lunch break at work when she worked fulltime.

“One of the guys said I never learnt to play table tennis properly and one day I said ‘I’d like to show you’ so when I retired I started to come and play here,” she said.

“At first I was very poor. I got perhaps three points, but gradually I learnt and could still learn more. I can’t spin the ball for instance. But I did learn to play better and won some awards and had a good time here.”

On her birthday, Ms Spitzer was set to play her 983rd game in the competition, with her current goal to at least hit 1000 games, which

she should achieve by the end of this season.

Ms Spitzer said she still won’t give it up after hitting that goal.

“There’s a big board on the wall where all the names are written on for 250, 500, 750 games and more and I’d like to have 1000,” she said.

“Exercise is very important for me. I do exercises in the morning, I have a set to do and exercise is involved here because when you change the end of the court, you have to walk around and play, and that keeps me going.”Ms

Spitzer has had a hand in helping out in her 30 years within the game, having previously run the senior competition and helped organise school trips and competitions at the centre. She has even had a chance encounter with former Australian no.1 ranked table tennis player Russell Lavale, who has also played in the Croydon and Districts Table Tennis Association and recognised her at the airport as he prepared for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics that year. Mr Lavale also competed at the 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games and the 2002 and 2006 Commonwealth Games.

Helga Spitzer can still fire them back on the table tennis table.

Pictures: CALLUM LUDWIGHelga Spizer celebrated her 95th birthday with her regular pennant competition.

Brenton Coad and Josh Sanders bowled there way to the State final.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Sanders held on strong in the final, going end for end against his opponent.

Although coming runner up, Sanders played with class against one of the best.

Lake run tests athletes

By Jamie Strudley

This week’s Saturday morning cross country was wet!

The rain fell, and the ground was wet and muddy but it didn’t stop the runners (and their hardy parents) from turning up to tackle the Lillydale Lake courses for the second time this season.

It was the first chance to try and earn the coveted PB choccy frog or mintie.

Despite the conditions, we saw 34 athletes run faster than in Round 1, a wonderful achievement in tough conditions.

Most of these have shown commitment to turning up every Saturday morning, and it is

clear their fitness is improving.

Special mention to Ryder (U13) who ran as ‘hare’ for 2 races, then stepped up for his own PB performance in the 3000m.

Some of the photos revealed that extra washing was going to be needed this week!

A massive thanks to those who filled our duties this week, particularly the marshals on the course and our set-up team, who didn’t have any easy way to stay dry!

Next week we return to Margaret Lewis Reserve in Coldstream for another crack at the choccy frog PB reward.

Our senior AV team will venture to St Annes Winery in Bendigo for round 3 of the XCR series.

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 an emphasis on preparing for cross country. Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability.

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

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

Bethany&Kahliafoundsomemudonthe course. Picture:SUPPLIED

Barkerettes edge out Beaumaris with a storming run

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 Barker’s 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 half-

way 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 and Walsh 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, Bark-

ers 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 Barr-Waanders 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 8.30pm) and the men are at home to Heatherton United (Saturday 1pm and 3pm).

See you down the Kennel!

Lilydale put to the test by second-placed Brunswick

On Monday 15 May, the Lilydale Section One Level Play team hosted the Brunswick Croquet Club.

Brunswick, sitting second on the ladder, was going to present a real challenge for the Lilydale pair of Glenn Crook and Murray Howlett who are still gaining experience at this level.

The first game was the doubles and Glenn Crook and Murray Howlett were taking it right up to their Brunswick opponents, neither side was getting a clear break and after 12 hoops the score was 6 hoops a piece. Both teams set up well for this hoop but the more experienced Brunswick side seized on their opportunity to run the hoop and won.

In the first singles game, Glenn Crook battled hard and was making it difficult for his opponent to get a clear shot at the hoops but in the end, sheer weight of numbers saw the Brunswick player take out the game.

In the next singles, Murray Howlett played an excellent game, setting his approach shots up in good positions and running some great hoops.

With two singles games, the match could go either way.

In the first singles after lunch the Brunswick player was out to make amends for his loss to Howlett and played very well, not letting Crook settle into the game.

In the last game for the day Howlett, although playing well just fell behind by a couple of hoops and could not make up for the lost ground.

The final scores for the day were Lilydale 1 game 25 hoops Brunswick 4 games 30 hoops.

As this was the last game for the season in section 1, Lilydale has finished fifth on the ladder winning half of their games played. This is a fantastic result for Crook and Howlett in their first year at this level, well done guys.

In Section 2, Lilydale played away at Ringwood Croquet Club. Ringwood is like Lilydale’s second home as they have to hire the Ringwood club for a number of their games due to the fact that Lilydale only has one court.

Lilydale were playing a combined team of Ringwood and Monash calling their team Woodash.

In the doubles, Woodash start strongly and had the first three hoops on the board before Lilydale scored. Lilydale’s Alan Jones and Craig McCracken fought back but the initial break that theWoodash team had kept them in front.

In the first singles, Lilydale’s John Thomson also started slowly with the Woodash player winning the first four hoops. John fought back but missed a critical hoop which left the door open for the Woodash player to win the game.

In the next singles, Craig McCracken played an excellent game not giving his opponent many opportunities around the hoops.

With two singles games to come Lilydale needed to play well to win the day to stay on top of the ladder.

In the first singles, John Thomson started much better and controlled most of the game to win.

In the last game, Alan Jones of Lilydale had a real battle on his hands as both players at times played well and then they also played so played some shots that they would gladly for-

get. Alan set up very well for the 13th with both balls and was able to control the hoop and win the game.

The final scores for the match were Lilydale 3 games 29 hoops toWoodash 2 games 25 hoops.

This win keeps Lilydale on top of the ladder with one round to play next Monday, which they have to win to stay on top of the ladder and win the shield for the autumn season.

On Thursday 18 May the semi-finals of the Handicap Shield Croquet Season were held at the Ringwood Croquet Club.

The top two teams from the East Division, Lilydale and Ringwood, played the top two teams from the West, Ivanhoe Park and Essendon.

Lilydale played Essendon, these two teams also played off in last season’s semi-finals with Lilydale winning that day.

Lilydale’s team consisted of Glenn Crook, Murray Howlett, Craig McCracken, Alan Jones and John Thomson.

In the first game, Murray Howlett had a mammoth task as he was giving away seven extra turns. Murray started well running the first hoop but the Essendon player was using her extra turns wisely and was going hoop for hoop with Murray. After 12 hoops the score was six hoops each, so the 13th hoop was played to decide the winner. The Essendon player had used all of her extra turns and Murray’s better play and experience won him the game.

The next game was a doubles game and here Glenn Crook and John Thomson teamed up. Glenn and John started well and although they were giving away four extra turns they

held a good lead, then the momentum of the game changed and the Essendon pair came back. Glenn and John held on and won.

In the next singles game, Glenn Crook was giving away five extra turns to his Essendon opponent. Essendon was using their extra turns well and staying even with Glenn throughout this game but it was won on the 13th by Glenn.

The next doubles game saw Craig McCracken and Alan Jones play, they were giving away three extra turns to their opponents. The game ebbed and flowed but in the end, it was the extra turns that the Essendon players had that made the difference.

Lilydale were in front but they could not relax as there were 2 games to play and only 2 hoops the difference.

The first game after lunch Alan Jones was playing. The game was close all the way through and both teams set up well with Essendon in with a chance to run the hoop and win the game, which she did.

The last game was a doubles game and Craig McCracken and Murray Howlett paired up. These two have been in sparkling form all season and even though they were giving away a combined five extra turns, and with the result of the semi-final on the line these two were determined not to lose this game.

The final score for the day was Lilydale 4 games 39 hoops to Essendon 2 games 35 hoops.

In the other semi-final Ringwood beat Ivanhoe Park so next Thursday the grand final will be between Lilydale and Ringwood, venue yet to be finalised.

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Concrete tanks built correctly will last a lifetime!

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

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

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

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