Mail - Mountain Views Star Mail - 23rd May 2023

By Callum Ludwig

This year marks 20 years since the brutal murder of MareaYann rocked the Healesville community, with Victoria Police announcing a $1 million reward for information on Tuesday 16 May 2023.

Then 69-year-old Marea was found bludgeoned to death in her lounge room at about 9.40am on Tuesday 30 September 2003 by a gardener who came to work at her Juliet Crescent home. Marea was found in her armchair,

TV still on, with extensive injuries to her upper body and head. Marea was wearing a red jumper, black pants and slip-on shoes.

Investigators from the Homicide Squad determined she had likely been killed the night before. There were no signs of forced entry and nothing appeared to have been taken from the house, though her purse was found on the floor. Marea’s last known contact was made at 8.07pm on Monday 29 September, when she spoke to her daughter in Queensland over the phone.

At the time a close friend of MareaYann told the Star Mail that in the months leading up to her murder, Marea feared for her life. Marea had told the friend‘I’m scared that one day you will turn on the television news and see that I’ve been killed.’

Marea’s sister and Yarra Glen resident Deanne Green, now 92, visited the Star Mail office recently to help the desperate appeal to find justice and closure regarding Marea’s murder.

Ms Green said she wants to be able to put

it to rest and get on with what little life she has left.

“I’m hoping after this that I never have to speak to anybody ever again about Marea’s death, I want to let it go, I want to be in peace and I want her to be at peace,” she said.

“But if nothing comes of it, that’s how it is, you just want a little bit of peace in your life but it’s pretty hard when she’s on my shoulder all the time.”

Continued page 3

Jeff Yann (centre) with his daughter Esther and nephew Milan Chagoury. 334134

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Both highway lanes open

Warburton residents can say goodbye to traffic delays and alternate routes following the full reopening of the Warburton Highway after swift repairs.

Both lanes of the highway were reopened on Tuesday 16 May at 5pm.

A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said major works to repair the Warburton Highway landslip are now complete and the road is open to traffic in both directions.

“This has been a complex project and we thank the community for their patience while we repaired the damaged section of road,” they said,

“We are pleased that we’ve been able to fin-

ish this work early and reconnect the Warburton community.”

Initial predictions had theWarburton Highway only being fully reopened by Wednesday 31 May, with the works reaching completion two weeks ahead of schedule.

A rock bank was built to support the road after crews excavated and removed unstable soil and damaged pavement. Road and asphalt layers were then rebuilt, improved drainage installed and road barriers and safety signage reinstated.

Storms and heavy rainfall back in October cause the landslip, with Bureau of Meteorology data showing that Warburton had 242.2mm of rain, well above the median October rainfall of 132.7mm.

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Cars using the newly reconstructed Warburton Highway.

Crews installing the road’s subgrade layer. To the right, a rock bank supports the rebuilt road. Pictures: DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORT AND PLANNING

$1 million reward

From page 1

Marea’s son-in-law Joseph ‘James’ Unumadu, who was married for 13 years to her daughter Pauline, was charged with her murder in 2005. The case went to trial in January 2008 before being acquitted by a jury, with a lot of key evidence being disregarded under strict hearsay rules that were in place at the time. Changes to laws regarding hearsay and double jeopardy were introduced with the passing of the Victorian Government’s Evidence Act 2008 that same year.

Ms Green said she was supposed to be with her sister on the night she is believed to have been murdered, but had told Marea she couldn’t come over because of a new commitment.

“I’d just been voted as the lead of a community radio station, and they were our meeting nights. Things could have been different if Maria had listened more to what I and my other sister Carmen said, we’d have been on it like a rash, but I feel I did it by telling her I couldn’t see her on Monday night,” she said.

“Marea is in the wind, she’s in this main street. If I come to Healesville, I think about her all the time and I seldom come here for that reason, it just brings back that terrible memory of what happened and the memory of what I might have been able to do.”

Marea Yann had been a much-loved and valued member of the Healesville community since she moved to the area six years prior to her murder. She worked diligently as the manager at the Healesville Living and Learning Centre’s East End Op Shop, though had been on leave since April 2003.

Ms Green said it would be lovely if there was someone in town who is able to come forward with something genuine.

“Marea loved Healesville, she knew everybody along the street. You could look out the window from here and see her over the street talking to somebody,” she said.

“There used to be a motel up the road, and every Christmas there would be men there who had just come out of jail or who were hard done by and couldn’t feed themselves on Christmas Day, so she’d make up dinner and take it down to them, she was one of those sort of people.”

The initial 20 persons of interest are believed to have been reconsidered as part of a 2021 review. In the 2008 trial, Homicide

Squad Detective Senior Sergeant Ron Iddles told Coroner Paresa Spanor that a number of people nominated as possible suspects had been eliminated, including Marea’s son Jeff Yann who appeared with his children Bella and Esther and nephew Milan Chagoury at the Victoria Police announcement on Tuesday 16 May 2023.

Speaking at the press conference, Jeff said his mum was a shining light in the Healesville community and was taken in such a brutal and violent manner that they could never let this thing go.

“Mum deserves justice, she never had justice 20 years ago, and we’re so lucky to have the support of the community and Vic Police who have been right by our side for the whole duration of this time,” he said.

“I wouldn’t wish this experience on any family, and we’d all rather be doing other things, but from an experience like this comes a lot of strength.”

Influenced by the death of their grandmother, Jeff’s daughters have gone on to seek careers supporting other victims of crime; Esther has just completed her Bachelor of Criminology and Bella has worked supporting women’s health in Alice Springs, particularly those facing violence, which Jeff described as ‘an amazing legacy that’s been left with our family.’

Bella said when she thinks about her Non-

na, she doesn’t think of her relationship, or Christmas with her, but her murder.

“I think about ‘Oh, my Nonna was murdered’ and look, there are articles and who did it, and this person’s still around and that’s my experience of my grandmother and that’s not fair, it’s not fair for my family and it’s not fair for the grandkids,” she said.

“I think having all of this come up maybe, eventually, we’ll be able to think about Nonna and not the murder.”

The Star Mail reported in the aftermath of the murder that Marea often helped disadvantaged people in the Healesville community, offering them work helping in her garden or giving them a place to stay, showcasing her selfless nature that may have led to her death.

Sen Sgt Iddles told Star Mail at the time that she looked after recovering alcoholics and drug addicts, would allow anyone into her home and ‘trusted people 100 per cent’, a notion supported by the fact there were no signs of forced entry.

Detective Superintendent of Crime Command Janet Stevenson said a significant investigation into Marea’s death has been conducted over the past two decades to try and determine who was responsible for her murder and what the motive was.

“Police have spoken to dozens of people as part of this investigation, however, there is always the possibility there is someone out there who is yet to speak to us. Alternatively, it might be someone who has never felt ready to provide detectives with particular information and for them, the time is now right,” she said.

“While there have been many developments in this case over the past 20 years, it remains open and unsolved. Importantly, with new information, we believe it still can be solved and we will follow up any possibility or new avenue of enquiry.”

Anyone with information about Marea’s death is urged by police to come forward, either by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, submitting a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au or contacting police directly.

The reward of up to $1 million would be paid following an apprehension and subsequent conviction of a person or persons who murdered Marea Yann.

Failure to vote notice issues

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.

288,511 Victorians have received an Apparent Failure To Vote Notice (AFTVN) from the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC), including 2,703 in the Eildon and 2,404 in the Evelyn electorates.

Acting Electoral Commissioner Dana Fleming said recipients of an AFTVN should contact the VEC if they are unsure what to do, rather than ignore the notice.

“If you need help understanding what the notice means and what you need to do, you can call us on 1300 551 575 or visit our website at vec.vic.gov.au,’ she said.

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.

Police looking for woman known to frequent Healesville

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 www.crimestoppersvic. com.au

House unable to be saved in Seville East

Early on Saturday morning 20 May at 3am,Yellingbo CFA’s rehab unit was called to a house fire at Old Warburton Highway, Seville East.

Unfortunately, the house could not be saved. There were no residents living in the house due to renovations, however, the residents resided in the bungalow at the back of their property and thankfully were all safe and sound. Ignition of the fire was undetermined at the time and was yet to be investigated.

Picture:STEWARTCHAMBERS

MareaYann. Picture:SUPPLIED

By Callum Ludwig

Environmental groups statewide carried out mass action on Saturday 20 May in anticipation of the Timber Harvesting Safety Zones amendment that is coming into place.

Citizen scientists were inToolangi and Powelltown over the weekend surveying for protected flora and fauna.

Kinglake Friends of the Forest committee member Aawa White was at the surveys in Toolangi and Powelltown and said the new laws are going to really impact the ability of citizen scientists to go out and conduct surveys in areas of forest scheduled for logging.

“We make sure that if there are threatened species there, they’re adequately protected and buffered from logging operations.

“We’ve all tried to coordinate to conduct surveys in our area, inviting some volunteers to come out and see the forest as well as push back against what we see as laws designed to suppress the community’s ability to keep an eye on what is being done and advocate for our forests.”

The Sustainable Forests Timber Amendment (Timber Harvesting Safety Zones) Bill 2022 will mean that protesters who illegally enter timber harvesting zones and dangerously interfere with workers or their machinery will face maximum fines of more than $21,000 or 12-months imprisonment.

MsWhite said it’s not just individual species endangered by logging.

“These ecosystems themselves are on the brink, we’re devastated that logging continues despite us knowing these forests are precious and really struggling to get by,” she said.

“The forest ecosystem is being drastically weakened and compromised by this widespread landscape-scale logging.”

At least 180 attendees are expected at five sites in Victoria.

Ms White said there was a day and night survey in Toolangi and a day survey in Powelltown run by Warburton Environment.

“The Powelltown survey is focused on look-

ing for the endangered understory plant the Tree Geebung, which can often get crushed during logging if it isn’t surveyed for,” she said.

“In Toolangi, the day survey will focus on flora, which is not just the trees but the understory as well, and we’ve got a night survey where we’ll be focusing on Greater Gliders,Yellow Belly Gliders and Leadbeater’s Possums.”

In total, 45 people attended the Toolamngi surveys, with seven attending both and 12 attended the Powelltown survey.

A Victorian Government spokesperson said every Victorian is entitled to a safe workplace.

“These changes aim to deter dangerous behaviour in potentially dangerous working zones by increasing penalties for already existing offences. Many Timber Harvesting Safety Zones currently in place to safeguard workers and the public are where recovery operations continue following storm and bushfire damage,” they said.

“With timber harvesting disrupted by court action, the Government is providing significant support to timber workers. These impacted workers and their families are at the front of our minds.”

Yarra Ranges primary producers eligible for storm loan

By Callum Ludwig

Primary producers in the Yarra Ranges Local Government Area (LGA) may be eligible for concessional loans of up to $250,000 to support them if they were affected by a hailstorm on 23 March this year.

The October floods were also kept in mind, with the hailstorm possibly the second blow for local agribusinesses.

A Bureau of Meteorology spokesperson confirmed showers and thunderstorms, some severe, impacted much of Victoria on 23 March, with reports of flash flooding, large hail, and some tree damage across parts of the state.

“The Bureau reported an intense thunderstorm at Mooroopna at 1.30pm on 23 March with large hail.The storm brought trees down and resulted in power outages,” they said.

“Depending on the time of year, hail can damage foliage, flowers, stems, branches and fruit. Fruit had set late this year, due to cool weather, with fruit such as Granny Smith and Pink Lady Apples still on the trees.”

Climate change has been pointed to as a factor of the severe hailstorms seen recently, noted in The Bureau’s State of the Climate 2022 Report.

The Bureau spokesperson said heavy rain-

fall – and any associated hail – is projected to become more intense under climate change.

“For the agricultural sector, netting is the main mitigation technique used to protect crops from hail damage. Portable netting should be moved to cover crops which are at higher risk of damage,” they said.

“Infrastructure and equipment, where

possible, should be covered or moved undercover.”

In the hardest-hit hailstorm areas such as Shepparton, hail even managed to rip through some netting.

Victorian Minister for Agriculture Gayle Tierney MP said she was pleased to announce this financial support for hard-hit horticultural growers who have felt the full impact of storms since November.

“This financial support recognises the significant impact that the recent storms and floods have had on many in the horticultural sector,” she said.

“This additional provision of a concessional loan of up to $250,000 to eligible growers recognises the impacts sustained by many in this sector in the past six months and acknowledges the need to support our fruit and vegetable growers.”

Delivered by the Victorian Government, the initiative is jointly funded by the state and federal governments through the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt said significant infrastructure damage was sustained, including orchard netting and poles.

“Unfortunately for this event, hail netting offered limited protection given the size of the hail and the direction of the storm,” he said.

“As well as help for farmers, there are also other forms of disaster assistance available for this event, including debris-removal help for residents, and assistance for local councils to fix up roads and public assets.”

The loans are intended to support businesses to bounce back into operation, restore or replace assets that were damaged by the weather event or cover costs of capital expenses that may have been affected by a loss of income.

Reports on the hailstorm at the time detailed the impact of hail particularly in the Goulburn Valley. Primary producers in the Yarra Ranges must be able to provide evidence of damage to be eligible for the loan.

“Impacts to community infrastructure in the area were reported and as a result, theYarra Ranges LGA is eligible for funding under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements,” an AgricultureVictoria spokesperson said.

For more information on the new concessional loans and the range of financial support measures available for the October 2022 to 13 January 2023 floods and storms visit Rural Finance at ruralfinance.com.au or call 1800 260 425.

The Powelltown survey team.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Hail netting was unable to catch it all in the 23 March storm.

Picture: SHANE SALI - MAYOR FOR GREATER SHEPPARTON CITY COUNCIL

Tackling addiction together

By Callum Ludwig

Drug and alcohol addiction can tear a family apart, and family members of an addict can often feel hopeless, helpless and uncertain as to how they can help a loved one.

The ADRA Redwood Community Centre is hosting a four-part series to teach attendees about the effect of addiction on families from Tuesday 4 July at 4pm.

Christian James is organising and speaking in the series and said a lot of the time, the focus is on the addict’s end but they are going to focus on the family.

“A lot of the time, it’s the family that is able to reach out and get help for the addict. The first part of the series will focus on what addiction is, the next two focus on the different roles in the family and how addiction changes family dynamics and the last is where to go from there and how to get the balance back,” he said.

“This can change lives, it can and does and will save lives.”

Guest speaker Jeff has specialised in addiction for 29 years, having been rescued from addiction and gone on to work with rehab programs.

Mr James said addiction starts young and people don’t often understand it and why people just can’t stop.

“We see quite a number of people here that end up homeless because of drug addiction and they might even be in their 40s with children themselves and that’s then passed on to the child, who is going to grow up mirroring what the parents do, and their behaviours,” he said.

“We need to educate people so that it doesn’t pass on generationally and that people can be pulled out of where they are at,

be put back into society and be healthy and whole.”

The ‘Addiction in the Family’ series is completely free for any and all attendees.

Mr James said a family member reaching out for help can be the turning point.

“It might be a spouse or a child, and that may be the turning point for them into getting healthy again, and that will save their life. Jeff the speaker, it was his wife that pushed for him to get help, and that was his way of getting help and him out of his addiction,” he said.

Open council opportunities

By Callum Ludwig

It can be easy not to feel heard sometimes and it is understated how much can be achieved with a face-to-face conversation or discussion.

Yarra Ranges Council’s ongoing Community Engagement Roadshow is providing an opportunity for local residents to give feedback, receive information or ask questions at different pop-ups and events.

Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child said that by joining the conversation, residents could play their part in shaping the future of their neighbourhood and council area by providing valuable feedback that informs Council decisions.

“The idea of the roadshow is to meet people where they are at and to engage people who may not necessarily seek out information on Council’s projects,” he said.

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“By going out to different communities we gain valuable insight into the experience of living in a particular area or township and the usage of various services and amenities available there, which helps inform Council decisions.”

Upcoming features on the roadshow include appearances at Seville and Yarra Junction Woolworths on 18 and 26 May.

“Yarra Ranges covers approximately 2,500km and for some going down to the Lilydale offices is not always convenient, so visiting residents in their township it makes it easy and accessible for them to interact with us,” said Cr Child.

“We try and make each Pop-up Conversation as visually appealing and interactive as possible. It might be something like voting on a topic by using sticky dots or writing down ideas on post-it notes or postcards.”

Recent engagements have been held at Elizabeth Bridge Reserve in Kilsyth on 12 April, the Olinda Play Space on Thursday 20 April and at the Coldstream Pump Track on Friday 21 April.

Recent discussions have revolved around topics such as the Aquatic Strategy,

A recent engagement opportunity at the Small Business Expo. Picture: SUPPLIED

Lilydale Precinct Design Framework, and rollout of the waste changes and FOGO recycling service.

Cr Child said he hopes the pop-ups help people interact with Council.

“Community engagement provides an opportunity for the community to shape the plans and decisions that affect their current and future needs,” he said.

“The feedback we receive helps inform Council’s vision, strategic direction, planning, and decision making, while also providing Council with a better understanding of community priorities.

At any time residents can submit an address, location or event they think would make a good opportunity for an engagement appearance provided it is free and accessible to all.

Anyone wanting to find out more about the Community Engagement Roadshow, submit a potential location or check on the interactive map which opportunities are coming to an area near them soon can do so at: www.shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/ community-engagement-roadshow.

The ADRA Redwood Community Centre is hosting an addiction support series. 335755 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERSChristian James. 335950

Thank you Cynthia!

The long-time face of straight track racing, Cynthia O’Brien has announced that she will be retiring from her position as General Manager of the Healesville Greyhound Association (HGA) at the end of June.

Cynthia gained her owner/trainer/breeder license in 1975 and has been a driving force in the industry ever since.

Commencing her greyhound racing administration career at Healesville in 2003, Cynthia also held roles as the CEO of Canberra Greyhounds and was also the manager of Shepparton before returning to Healesville as manager in 2012.

At the 2021 Victorian Greyhound Awards, the queen of straight track racing was awarded the GRV leadership award due to her passion and commitment to the promotion of greyhound racing across all facets of administration, breeding, education, owning and training.

Cynthia has always shown a strong determination to strive for the betterment of the clubs she has been involved in, including gaining SKY Channel coverage at Canberra for greyhound racing and their Cup Carnival racing event(s), founding the ‘Women on Track’ event, introducing the National Straight Track Championships which now involves Murray Bridge, Capalaba, Richmond and of course, Healesville.

Always an advocate for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, Cynthia has been an integral part in raising money through a wide variety of initiatives and was a crucial part of bringing Good Friday racing to Healesville as the club became the first Victorian greyhound track to race on Good Friday with the aim of raising further money for the appeal.

In recent years, Cynthia has been the catalyst behind the creation of innovative races; The Arrow, The Emerald and The Member’s Trophy, while also conducting the richest straight track race in Australia, The Group 2 Healesville Cup each year.

As Cynthia makes her move to participate in the sport she has administrated, there is a unique opportunity to become part of an established club and to join the vibrant industry of greyhound racing, are you ready to take the lead?

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An exciting opportunity is now available for an experienced manager to lead a highly regarded and long-established greyhound racing club in the picturesque Yarra Valley.

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Sad Maroondah farewell

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 patients 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.

Roll up your sleeves and get your BP checked now

Australians are being urged by The Stroke Foundation of Australia to roll up their sleeves and get their blood pressure checked during the month of May.

The Casey electorate has 2861 residents living with stroke as of 2020 and this has a widespread impact on local communities and their families.

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is the single biggest modifiable risk factor for stroke and affects one in three adults.

The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to have it checked regularly by a pharmacist, at your local GP, or at home using a home blood pressure monitor.

May 17 is World Hypertension Day, which raises awareness of the issues high blood pressure can cause.

The Stroke Foundation uses the month of May each year to focus on high blood pressure and encourages all Australians to seek out a free health check or to see their GP.

Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Dr Lisa Murphy said alarmingly, 4.7 million

Australians are living with high blood pressure, and many of those people are unaware.

“High blood pressure has no immediate

symptoms, yet over time it puts extra stress on blood vessel walls. This can cause them to narrow or break down, eventually leading to

a stroke,” Dr Murphy said.

Stroke Foundation’s report, No Postcode Untouched, found that if high blood pressure alone was eliminated, the number of strokes would almost be cut in half (48 per cent).

Dr Murphy said having your blood pressure checked was easy, painless and potentially life-saving, but was too often overlooked.

“You can help control your blood pressure by changing your diet and lifestyle, particularly through regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight,” Dr Murphy said.

Dr Murphy said that a quick and painless blood pressure check can be all it takes to potentially save a life.

“A normal blood pressure measurement is less than 120/80mmHg, a measurement of 140/90mmHg is regarded as high blood pressure and puts you at increased risk of stroke, no matter what your age,” she said.

For more information about high blood pressure, visit the website.

Faster NBN now in place

Eligible residential homes and businesses in Yarra Glen can now connect to faster internet speeds through the nbn® Fibre Connect program.

Fibre to the Premises is nbn’s fastest and most reliable residential connection on the nbn® network. It can deliver wholesale download speeds of close to 1 Gbps, which can support things like simultaneous streaming of high-definition video, faster downloading and uploading of large files.

Joe Lathan, nbn Executive General Manager Customer Experience and Products, said with more connected devices than ever before, there is increasing demand for faster and reliable internet from homes and businesses.

“The demand for faster and more reliable internet is the highest we’ve ever seen. as the way they use technology continues to evolve,” he said.

“Thisisbeingdrivenbytrendssuchashybrid work and study arrangements and an increase

New nbn technology is now available in more of Yarra Glen. Picture: ON

in online entertainment, such as streaming services and gaming, across multiple devices.”

People can access the Fibre Connect program through three simple steps:

1.Check their address on the nbn website www.nbn.com.au/fibreupgrade to see if they are in an eligible area.

2.Contact a participating phone and internet provider and ask if they can order an eligible plan.

3.Book an installation with their preferred phone and internet provider.

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

River release supporting rare Australian Grayling

By Callum Ludwig

Healesville residents may notice that the Birrarung (Yarra) River will be flowing strongly this week, with a water release having started on Wednesday 10 May.

A release is being conducted by Melbourne Water, on behalf of the Victorian Environmental Water Holder, to help support the spawning of Australian Grayling species with the water flow encouraging it and other migratory fish to move downstream to spawn.

Environmental Water Resources Delivery Lead of Waterways and Catchment Operations at Melbourne Water James Frazer said the autumn water release aims to provide river flows that support the downstream movement of Australian Grayling throughout the river system.

“Adult Grayling live in freshwater, moving downstream to spawn in April and May. The eggs/larvae then drift out to sea before returning to freshwater as juveniles approximately 6 months later, during spring,” he said.

“As this species is mobile and migrates between fresh water and salt water, all

reaches of the Birrarung (Yarra River) main stem are important.”

The release should be completed on Monday 22 May for a total of 6.2 gigalitres of water which will be closely monitored and controlled.

The Australia Grayling, also known as the cucumber mullet, cucumber fish orYarra herring, is currently classified as threatened or vulnerable at the state and federal levels respectively. Pre-1970, it was thought to be extinct in Victoria but recent discoveries in the Yarra River below Dights Falls and another location upstream revealed it is rare but found over a wide area.

The Birrarung suits the Australian Grayling’s preference for rivers with a cool, clear, moderate flow, with a gravel substrate and alternating pools and riffles.

The water for the release comes from the Birrarung (Yarra’s) Environmental Entitlement which is set aside to help look after the health of the river and the species within it.

Fine sediment and organic material will also be flushed from the river bed, maintaining habitat for waterbugs and native vegetation.

Early detection saves life

A new campaign by Cancer Council Victoria is urging people to get checked for cancer.

Victorian Nicola Iglicki, who is a mother of two noticed a lump in her breast in November 2021 and immediately booked an appointment with her doctor for the following day.

“I thought I had imagined the lump and kept thinking this couldn’t be happening to me,” she said.

“But I soon realised I wasn’t imagining it; the lump was hard and mobile.”

Nicole was then diagnosed with stage 1, grade 3 breast cancer and was grateful for how quickly her doctor and the broader medical team acted.

Now, Nicole is urging otherVictorians to act if they notice a change in their health or body.

Cancer Council Victoria CEO Mr Todd Harper AM said this immediate action taken by Mrs Iglicki likely saved her life or at least minimised the degree of invasive treatment she’d need.

“We know the earlier cancer is found, the better our chances of treating it and the patient making a full recovery,” he said.

“It’s so important we check our bodies for signs of cancer and see a doctor immediately if we notice any changes.”

Voters asked to explain

By Parker McKenzie

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.

288,511 Victorians have received an Apparent Failure To Vote Notice (AFTVN) from the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC), including 2,536 in Croydon, 2,703 in Eildon, 2,404 in Evelyn and 2,455 in the Monbulk electorates.

Acting Electoral Commissioner Dana Fleming said recipients of an AFTVN should contact the VEC if they are unsure what to do, rather than ignore the notice.

“If you need help understanding what the notice means and what you need to do, you can call us on 1300 551 575 or visit our website at vec.vic.gov.au,’ she said.

“Information on what to do if you receive an apparent failure to vote notice will also be available to view in 25 in-language videos.”

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.

The Cancer Council urges people to get checked by a professional as soon as they can.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Cancer Council Victoria’s latest lifesaving campaign urges all eligibleVictorians to get up to date with cancer screening and seek medical support if they’ve noticed changes to their health.

Learn more about cancer symptoms and cancer screening at Cancer Council Victoria Early Detection Saves Lives website at earlydetection.org.au.

A release into the Birarung (Yarra) River is set to support a threatened fish. Picture: ON FILE

People who failed to vote in the 2022 state election are being asked to justify their absence at the polls. Picture: ON FILE

Week packs excitement in

By Callum Ludwig

Creating an engaging education environment goes a long way toward motivating students for their school day.

Launching Place Primary School has been busy for Education Week, fitting this year’s theme ‘Active Learners: Move, Make, Motivate’.

Principal Laura Caddy said they have provided lots of opportunities for students but also to engage the community and families as well.

“Literacy and numeracy is where it’s at as far as us wanting to make sure that our students have the skills to be able to get them through life, but then we also want them to enjoy coming to school,” she said.

“Providing these opportunities means that we’re building their engagement and their motivation to take part in their education and be present for it.”

The week was packed with activities;

Launching Place Primary School had an open afternoon on Monday, and a Teddy Bear Picnic for our 2024 enrolments on Tuesday. We had an incursion on Wednesday, and then Thursday was Grandparents Day a chance for grandparents to do some school activities with

children before Jimmy J from The Dreaming Space In Wesburn’s circus performance.

Ms Caddy said motivation and engagement in learning is the key to a successful school.

“I see that as our key business, to be able to provide that for our children at school whether it be through special-themed weeks or even extracurricular activities and our lunchtime clubs,” she said.

“Jimmy J isn’t new to us, last term he ran a weekly workshop with a group of children who were interested in working on circus skills and we also have a chess club, or a bracelet-making club that students came to me and asked for.”

Friday also marked the opportunity for the school to present its Bronze Award for its School-Wide Positive Behaviour program.

Ms Caddy said they hope to show students the school will act on what they have to say.

“We’re really trying to get students to suggest some student-led activities and when those opportunities arise, we’re really trying to show students that we listen to what they have to say and we value their point of view,” she said.

“Whether that’s through bracelet making or through the way that we learn about maths and being more active in that learning, it’s just listening to that student feedback.”

Upper Yarra businesses ‘Embracing Change’ at expo

By Callum Ludwig

Businesses keen on ‘Embracing Change’ in the Upper Yarra came together at the Arts Centre in Warburton for WVCEDA’s Business Expo.

Attendees included individuals contemplating a business venture, new startups and established businesses and organisations.

Just recently David Szabo started up his therapeutic fly-fishing business, the Mindful Fly Fisherman, and he said it’s been a work in process, but he is excited to be finally launching.

“I’m just hoping to draw on the energy of other people here, learn from other people how to reach who I’m meant to be reaching and how I can just craft my message so that people who need my service find me,” he said.

“Warburton is the nature, wellness and adventure capital of theYarraValley and I used to runWarburton Fly Fishing, so this was a natural flow into mindfulness,”

“I think we have this beautiful river, that’s a metaphor for the river of our lives. I just think it’s all coming together: nature, business, and water speak to the world, and I just want to be part of it.”

The event was free and open to business owners all throughout the Warburton Valley, with the opportunity to become a member of WVCEDA and add their voice to the local business community.

Attendee Ben has a background in educational support and IT and said he was looking at starting up a side business to have a play with.

“I’m coming along to get some tips and ideas, I’ve got lots of different things I’m looking at, so I’m just pondering the possibilities for someone who’s looking to start something up,” he said.

“It’s a good chance to meet the community, meet the people I live around and share with

them, grow with them and contribute.”

Speeches and workshops throughout the event focused on some key aspects of a thriving small to medium-sized business: grant writing, well-being processes, marketing and setting goals as well as a time for wine, cheese and networking into the early evening.

For Mem from Katu Katu Inc in McMahons Creek, the event was an opportunity

for information gathering.

“I came to see what’s on offer and then identify what’s suitable for myself and my business and utilising what opportunities are out there with the Council, with networking and with some of the organisations in small business that could benefit not only us but of course the entire community,” he said.

“Katu Katu is all about mental health, all

about shifting the minds, demographics and the everyday hustle and bustle and stress people are experiencing.”

Katu Katu is an ACNC-registered Health Promotion Charity taking people out into the natural landscape of the Upper Yarra to interact with Indigenous Australian history, culture and the native flora and fauna. The event had 75 registered attendees.

Local business owners converse.

Picture: KATE BAKER

Attendees seated prior to the start of the expo. Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

From left: Julie Szabo, David Szabo and Ben await the beginning of the WVCEDA Business Expo.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

Luke and Will lend a hand to Jimmy J.

Annabelle can’t look away from the act.

Jimmy J had students mesmerised with his balancing feats. Pictures: CALLUM LUDWIG

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

Community rallies for MS

By Tanya Steele

Woori Yallock resident Ebony Rait had a stellar result fundraising for the MSWalk, Run and Roll for 2023 and has been astounded by the level of support from the community.

“The fundraiser became so much bigger than expected and it was all worth it,” she said.

Ms Rait has raised over 3000 dollars and is still shocked at how generous people have been.

Ms Rait did the 5km run and a 5km walk on Sunday 21 May with family and friends joining in as well, she said the run was just the icing on the cake and that she felt many different emotions throughout.

“There is a sense of accomplishment that we get the chance to make a difference to this cruel disease and the people it affects,” she said.

Ms Rait had been fundraising money and selling raffle tickets for the last few months to raise funds for the MS foundation and has had beautiful prizes donated by business big and small.

“I’ve been really surprised by how generous everyone has been, especially the smaller business,” she said.

The cause is close to the heart as Ms Rait’s sister Maddi was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at age 25 during Covid.

“Treatment so far has been going well and she is an amazing person, at the moment it is once a month,” she said.

It will be the second time Ms Rait will participate in the MSWalk Run Roll event and this year Ms Rait wanted to take fundraising a bit further and turned to her football club for support.

“My club helped me with the idea to make it bigger and it went off like wildfire,” she said.

The raffle contributed to the fundraising efforts and the Coldstream FNC drew the winner on Saturday 20 May at 7.30 pm.

The club posted on social media that they wish Ms Rait nothing but the best and couldn’t wait to watch her smash this run for her sister.

Ms Rait did the run and walk with family and friends and said seeing such a large group of people being so positive and fighting for the cause was incredible.

“It is so important to fundraise, to raise awareness and to fund research for changes in treatments, it has given people diagnosed with MS a future,” she said. From

Kyle Vander-Kuyp guiding Aussie athletes at Games

By Callum Ludwig

Australia’s record-holder in the 100m men’s hurdleshasbeencalledupontoprovideguidance and support for the Australian Olympic team heading to the Paris 2024 Games.

Kyle Vander-Kuyp grew up in the eastern suburbs and spent his childhood around the Yarra Ranges, but will be heading to France as one of the four Deputy Chefs de Mission while continuing in the role of Indigenous Liaison Officer he held at Tokyo 2020.

Vander-Kuyp said he was honoured fellow Olympic legend Anna Meares extended an invitation for him to work alongside and support her in her role.

“In Paris, there’s going to be eight different villages or sites that the Australian team will be located in, so there’s a real need to make sure that the whole team is connected and feeling engaged,” he said.

“I think our role is going to probably have a few parts to it, but we will be making sure the team are feeling welcome when they first land in Paris and then while they’re in their competitive mode, making sure they’re feeling like they’ve got everything they need.”

Vander-Kuyp still holds the Australian 110m Hurdles record of 13.29 seconds that he set at theWorld Championships in Göteborg, Sweden back in 1995.

Vander-Kuyp said the Tokyo Olympics gave him a taste of the elite space and being part of an Olympic team again.

“It had been 20 years since I’d been on the Sydney Olympic team and having gone from athlete to having a life after sport, to evolve and have a family and a working life outside of sport, it’s really refreshing to go back into sport and feel like you’ve got a part to play

and feel connected and valued as well,” he said.

“You leave sport thinking, what can I do next? Is there anything left for me to give? That sense of pride in representing your country and wearing green and gold, it’s the highest. The Olympics are what everyone dreams of as a young sportsperson.”

Vander-Kuyp finished 7th at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games and was knocked out in the semifinals at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games. He also competed in the 1994, 1998 and 2006 Commonwealth Games, the 1993, 1995, 1997 and 1999 World Championships and won 12 National 110m Hurdle titles.

Vander-Kuyp said being Indigenous, he’s

also really proud to bring his cultural knowledge over there after the success of the Indigenous cultural hub in Tokyo.

“We had the Indigenous language map up, and a lot of engagement happened at that map. A lot of athletes came and asked questions and a lot of the Indigenous Olympians came by and pointed out where their language group is or where they’re from,” he said.

“It created a sense of learning and knowledge while athletes were busy competing and there was Aboriginal and Torres Strait artwork up in the village uniform that had Indigenous design on it for the first time.”

Vander-Kuyp started his athletics career at the Ringwood Athletics Hub growing up.

Vander-Kuyp encouraged young Yarra Ranges athletes to make sure to follow their dreams.

“It doesn’t matter how crazy that might seem or feel, you’ve got to put it out there to start with and then you got to get the team of people around you. It always takes a bit of courage to put a dream out there and say that’s what I want to do,” he said.

“Passion, persistence and patience will always be the ones that will get your dream to come true. I encourage any athletes from any part of Australia, but particularly in our eastern suburbs, to get out there, watch the games and who knows, you could be competing at the Brisbane Olympics.”

Kayle Vander-Kuyp at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Kyle Vander-Kuyp addressing athletes in Tokyo.

Picture: SUPPLIEDKyle Vander-Kuyp with Yarra Ranges Athletics athletes in 2020.

Picture: ON FILE

Australian basketball star Patty Mills, left, and Kyle-Vander-Kuyp. Picture: SUPPLIED

left: Jayde, Maddi and Ebony Strait at the MS Walk, Run and Roll Fundraiser. Picture: SUPPLIED

Quirky title baffles

Linoleum Starring Jim Gaffigan, Rhea Seehorn and Katelyn Nacon 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 cosy slowness, immersing us in the lives of the main characters as they weather disappointments and stifling expectations. “Rational” is used as a putdown, and “it’s not that simple” becomes a mantra that Cameron must over-

come 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 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.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Waiting for God: Lively wait for final curtain

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.

Several sets based on a revolving stage which was used to full extent and as a result a smooth movement of scenes.

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 rap-

Kemp’s curtain call

port 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.

The CEO of the retirement home, 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 performance 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.

Doctor Gyno, who delivered Sarah’s baby was played by Arzu Yilmaz. Another good performance giving a realistic feel of the moment.

The undertaker was played by Kate Deavin, a small role but important to the play. A good performance adding to the joy of the evening.

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

A chilling read, truly

PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

IceBound: 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; lustrous in 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.

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 Antarctic Treaty 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”.

Great result

By Tanya Steele

New faces young and old attended the annual Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser on 10 May which was provided by volunteers from the CWA Tarrawarra branch and Le Pine Funerals in Healesville.

Tarrawarra Branch President Anne Faulks said it was great to be involved.

“It doesn’t really require a lot of effort to get such a great return for a good cause,” she said.

The Cancer Council fundraiser has hit its 30th year nationwide and the morning tea provided by Le Pines and CWA came with food, tea, raffles and prizes for attendees.

“It was a really good day with some beautiful cakes made by the CWA ladies,” Ms Smith said.

“It was great and there were a few Mums with their little tots as well, which was nice to see - as well some people from the senior citizens’ group,” Ms Falks said.

COMMUNITY DIARY

COMMUNITY DIARY

WHAT’S ON AROUND THE VALLEY

Yarra Valley View Club luncheon meeting

TheYarraValleyView Club looks forward to another year supporting The Smith Family with the educational needs of underprivileged Australian children.

Our next luncheon meeting will be held at

Over 50 people from the community came and enjoyed the scones and jam and tea, along with an array of delicious slices made by the CWA volunteers.

“It was mainly sweet, when people come for morning tea they want a nice bit of slice,” MS Falks said.

There were raspberry and coconut, lemon and cheesecake brownie slices, all of which Ms Falks said were delicious.

The event featured raffles with some excellent prizes provided by Ms Smith and the main winner took home a beautiful handmade quilt and was quite pleased with it.

“Raffles were a hit and everyone left with something,” Ms Smith said.

The organisations raised $890 for the cancer foundation in total and plan to continue the tasty fundraiser for years to come.

“Everyone seemed to enjoy it and said they would be back next year,” Ms Smith said.

Mushroom meanders are popular at Healesville

By Tanya Steele

Mushroom spotting walks hosted by volunteers from the Healesville community garden have proved popular this month and the group has added a third walk over the weekend of 19 and 20 of May.

Volunteer Marcus Kaye has always loved nature and said he enjoyed showing people some of the more common mushroom varieties growing wild around the region.

“A few years ago fungi began to catch my eye, so I began to research and learn more about them,” he said.

From Badger Weir to Chum Creek, Marcus said you can always find something when you meander through nature.

“I love the area around Healesville, the forests and the rivers, it’s an amazing place and the mushrooms are abundant,” he said.

Marcus moved to the area in the last two years and decided to help with workshops as a way to connect with the local community.

“I did a mushroom walk about a year ago and started with one attendee, but I have run other gardening themed workshops, also jam making, pruning, propagating and planting,” he said.

The mushroom walks have grown quite popular and the community garden now gets full groups of 25 people along.

Marcus said people appreciate the diversity of the fungi and that people like to use photography and painting to capture the colours and shapes of the different types.

“I feel there has been a real boom in the

The walks are popular with people wanting to know more about the curious fungi. Picture: SUPPLIED

interest towards it and there’s that connection with nature,” he said.

Marcus is also a chef and has an interest in the edible types that grow wild regions, but cautions against eating anything unless you have training and experience.

The walks have been enjoyable for the public as some attendees had never spotted the mushrooms growing on paths they’ve walked many times before, Marcus said that taking a closer look around can really enhance a person’s experience.

“It’s a good chance to share information and to connect with people with the same interests,” he said.

the Chirnside Park Country Club on Tuesday 27 June, 11.30am for a 12 noon start.

The day promises to be loads of fun and will include a presentation from “The Gadget Girl”.

Come down to the club and take this opportunity to join us for monthly interest groups, outings and meet women from all walks of life and form lasting friendships.

Bookings are essential for this eventPlease Contact Val on 0419 007 728.

Visitors are always welcome to attend.

Join

ADRA’s Yarn Club

With chilly weather already upon us and winter drawing ever closer, why not join the ‘Yarn Club’ at the ADRA Redwood Community Centre.

Every Thursday from 11am all are welcome to come for a cuppa, a chat and craft.

Bring your own knitting or crochet project.

To help tough the winter chill, the heater will be on and the kettle boiled ready to go.

Eastern 80 hands over fundraising efforts

Eastern 80 founder Norm Orr has handed over the cheque from this year’s event to the Good Friday Appeal.

The 2023 Eastern 80 raised $7195 for the Royal Children’s Hospital, taking the event’s eight-year total to almost $80,000 since its start.

The Eastern 80 is an annual charity bike ride held on the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail founded by Mr Orr as a way to drum up funds from the UpperYarra community for the appeal.

CWA to host Quilt and Craft Show over King’s weekend

The Tarrawarra Branch of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) will host their annual Quilt and Craft show at the Senior Citizens Hall in Healesville on Green Street.

Over the King’s Birthday weekend of June 10 to June 12, on Saturday 10am to 4p, Sunday 10am to 4pm and Monday 10am to 2pm. There is a $5 entry free people can come and enjoy a variety of handmade crafts and quilts to peruse and admire and there will be opportunities to purchase some items. There will also be a selection of Devonshire teas available to add a tasty addition to the show,

All monies raised will be donated to local community groups and support families in need.

NDIS connection desk

Join the team from Latrobe Community Health Service to learn about the NDIS on Thursday 25 May from 10am to 12pm at the Healesville Library.

If you need to find out about getting access, or you have questions about a current plan, or you just want general information, come and have a chat.

The event is free with no bookings required.

Warburton Shell Service Station 3458 Warburton Highway

Warburton Professionals Andrew McMath Real Estate 3371 Warburton Highway

Warburton Bell Real Estate 3407 Warburton Highway

Wesburn Local Fuel 2835 Warburton Highway

WooriYallock Foodworks Woori Yellock 1/1585 Warburton Highway

WooriYallock Newsagency & Tattslotto Shop 4/ 1585 Warburton Highway

WooriYallock Hillcrest Little Store Great Food 1745 Warburton Highway

WooriYallock Shell Service Station Foodies 1700 Warburton Highway

WooriYallock Australia Post LPO Shop 11 / 1585 Warburton Highway,The Centre Yarra Glen Ritchies IGA Shop 1/38 Bell Street Yarra Glen Caltex Petrol Station 66 Bell Street

Yarra Glen Newsagent 32 Bell Street

Yarra Glen United Garage 6 Bell Street

Yarra Junction Woolworths Supermarket 82-84 Warburton Highway

Yarra Junction Bottle O 2440 Warburton Highway

Yarra Junction Bell Real Estate 2457 Warburton Highway

Yarra Junction Newsagency 2454 Warburton Highway

Yarra Junction Professionals Andrew McMath Real Estate 2460 Warburton Highway

Yarra Junction Yarra Junction Community Link 2442-2444 Warburton Highway

Yarra Junction Gladysdale Bakehouse 2568 Warburton Hwy

Yellingbo Central Store 1942 Healesville-Kooweerup Road

From Left: Del,Karina,Anne,Faye,Jenny and Lisa on the day.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Art turns heads on rail trail

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 unique 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 we can experience and enjoy an acoustic space just as much as we can a visual space, we 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.

Endangered stories woven into music at The Memo

By Tanya Steele

Of Birds and Monuments comes to The Memo Healesville on Sunday 4 June at 2pm with a collaborative and immersive performance featuring three music pieces which explore Indigenous and nature themes within a variety of mediums.

The trio of collaborative suites offers a connection through music, Indigenous history in landmarks and stories and also explores the plight of the Helmeted Honey Eater bird.

Each suite is individual in nature but has shared themes that enhance the whole.

Coady Green, one half of the piano group Duo Exclectica said the idea for one of the pieces Herring Island Piano Sonata - which was composed by Professor Linda Kouvara, came about during one of the Melbourne lockdowns.

It was formed in collaboration and features text from N’arweet Dr Carolyn Briggs AM, a Boon Wurrung senior Elder who is the chairperson and founder of the Boon Wurrung Foundation.

The sonata is intricate, with Tikiki Onus narrating the voice alongside the piano.

Mr Onus is a Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Wurrung artist, performer, filmmaker and academic with personal history and connection to Healesville

The suite also features audio of natural soundscapes by Dr Roger Alsop from the locations mentioned in the story.

“There are platypus noises and also a lot of waterways as they are so important to the central story, it is this incredible piece and quite powerful,” Mr Green said.

Mr Green said he felt the gap in his knowledge of the original stories behind the area and recognised he’s been living on the land

and not known about its heritage before.

“There’s such an important and vibrant Indigenous history in every part of the city we walk across,” he said.

Mr Green said that it is a unique piece of music because of the way classical piano sonata combines with Indigenous themes and narration.

After some success with the Herring Island work a follow up was developed and again composed by Professor Linda Kouvara.

Buluwirri Bugaja Piano Suite features

generational stories which originate in Heasleville and is written and performed byTiriki Onus.

“It isTikiki’s own story and all of that family history originates in Healesville,” Mr Green said.

“It will be the world premiere performance of this suite.”

Duo Eclettico will also perform Jane Hammond’s Songs of the Helmeted Honeyeater featuring, piano, saxophone, film and narration.

The work tells the story of Victoria’s critically endangered Helmeted Honeyeater bird, and the work of the local conservationists to save the species.

The piece is by director, writer, and producer Theresa Borg, alongside a new film by Angus Hamilton.

Mr Green said he hopes to continue performing the suites within Australia and overseas.

“All the pieces have such interesting stories, particularly the Indigenous ones, people are interested to hear them,” he said.

There will be a panel discussion following the performance featuring, Justin and Coady from Duo Eclettico, Tiriki Onus, Jane Hammond, Linda Kouvaras and Virginia Wallace.

Mr Green said he hopes the show will resonate with people.

“The show has an exploration of hidden stories that people aren’t aware of and the Indigenous respect for land and environment really shines through them,” he said.

Tickets are available via The Memo website and the performance is on 4 June.

Peter Mcilwain with the Bird Child Spirit installation when it was installed in Selby.

Picture: ON FILELook out for this sign on the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail in Mt Evelyn to hear Bird Child Spirit.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

Duo Athletica are excited to perform and premiere the Buluwirri Bugaja Piano Suite along with the two others.

Tiriki Onus has a close connection to Healesville.

Picture: SUPPLIED

PUZZLES

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 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)

9-LETTER WORD

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

WORDFIT

disgust, DISGUSTED, disuse, disused, duet, dust, dusted, dusts, etui, guess, guest, guide, guided, guides, guise, guises, gusset, gust, gusted, gusts, guts, issue, issued, situs, stud, studied, studies, studs, sued, sues, suet, suit, suite, suited, suits, tissue, tugs, used, uses

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

HOME ESSENTIALS

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. ●

HOME FOCUS

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. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

BELgrAvE 42BENSONSTREET

SUNNY,USABLE1438SQMBLOCK

3 A 1 BC 1 E

Thisoriginal‘Hills’cottageisNorthfacingandissetwell backfromthemainroadona stunning1438sqmblock,aneasystrollintothevibranttownshipofBelgrave,aswellasthe train,busterminals,primaryandsecondaryschools.Thehomeconsistsof3bedroomsplus astudy,loungeroom,kitchenanddiningareawithhighceilingsandgorgeoustimber floorboardsbeingastandoutfeature.Thehomeiswellplacedontheblockandbathed innaturalsunlight,perfectforarenovationoranextension(STCA).

JanBrewster 0409558805

USEABLE¼ACREALLOTMENT

LIVETHEGOODLIFEON10ACRES

4BEDrOOMSPLUSASTUDY

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.

MickDolphin 0429684522

TayTing 0417302112

PErFECTFOrACONTrACTOr/TrADiE!

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!

SPACiOUSFAMiLYhOMEONNEArLY½ACrE

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.

TayTing 0417302112

4 A 2 B 20 C 1 E

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

5 A 2 B 4 C

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

MickDolphin 0429684522

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. ●

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.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

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

8DeanCrescent,LaunchingPlace $650,000-$690,000

Neathome,superlocationandmassiveshed!

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.

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 DanielSteen

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

4 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

Small Job Specialist

CFA a good fit for couple

Married couple Jen and Ray moved to Gruyere in the Yarra Valley eight years ago and originally thought they had no spare time to join CFA.

Today, Jen is the Secretary of the brigade and Ray the 3rd Lieutenant.

It was a chance encounter with a CFA member who was doing some fencing at the back of Jen and Ray’s property that first got the duo interested in joining CFA.

“At first I didn’t think I had time because I worked full time in the city, and I was not around all that often.” Ray said.

The duo has found working from home provides the perfect balance of work and being able to respond to daytime emergencies.

“Now that COVID has happened a lot of people are working from home, like Ray for instance is able to work from home a couple of days a week and he can respond on those days and also at nights,” Jen said.

“There is even more opportunity now for those who do work at home to join their local brigade.”

On average Ray would clock up about six hours per week with training and maintaining the brigade’s trucks and Jen about two hours a week.

The duo now balance working full time, family commitments and CFA, and have organised flexibility with their respective workplaces that allows them to do daytime responding when needed.

“It’s not an onerous thing and we manage to cope with it pretty well, even with a full time job it’s easily achievable,” Ray said.

“As long as we don’t have a deadline, they are happy for us to go and I generally just make up my hours on another day at another time.”

The couple married 13 years ago and lived in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. Jen made a comment to Ray that he was always in the garage fixing cars and Ray told her she needed to

Trades & Services

get a hobby.

Within 24 hours Jen had bought a horse.

The couples love for ‘horsepower’ – Jen for actual horses and Ray for cars – triggered their

Announcements

tree change from suburbia to Gruyere.

“We enjoy contributing our time, it really is a big family. Gruyere feels like our family. We have got more out of CFA than we have put

General Classifieds

General Notices

Planning

Permit in accordance with the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme Clause 52.19-1, based on the description above.

3.In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/ or comments should be directed to: Archie Aparicio of Genus at Feedback@Genus.com.au or L2, 71-73 Alexander Street, Crows Nest NSW 2065 by 5pm on Thursday, 8 June 2023. Additional information may also be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/3797002 12606401-MS21-23

in.” Ray said.

Everyone can have a role at CFA – so ‘Give Us a Hand’ and express your interest at www. cfa.vic.gov.au/volunteer.

Jen and Ray with their horse, the couple balance their time to volunteer with the CFA.

Picture: SUPPLIED

SPORT Early birds take rewards

By Ron Hottes

Wednesday 17 May PAR:

As with all golf clubs,Warburton Golf Club has some regular early-birds, who love to be out ahead of the field. If you speak to them, they will give you a whole list of reasons why they have an advantage over the rest. Clearly, on this comp day, they took advantage of those benefits to place 1 and 2 in the results. Of course, I’m referring to Ross Machar and John Haynes, both of whom play in the same group most weeks. On this occasion, Ross pipped his mate for the top voucher posting an excellent +4. John’s +3 was too good for everyone else in the field. Not surprisingly, the balls extended to -2. The NTP winners on this day were James Campion (3rd), Alan McDonald (9th), Neil“Mr. Scotland” Leckenby (12th) and Max Carvill (15th).

Saturday 20 May: Stroke and Foursomes

Championships:

Thisevent,loyalreaders,isonethatmostmem-

bers of any Club would love to win. It is the ultimate team event. Pairs who win this title have Club bragging rights in so many ways. And so it is no surprise that our Open Gross Champions for 2023 are the Fox boys. Peter and Danny are cousins, but they could be brothers for the affinity they have with each other’s games. They very much played the demanding 27-hole journey with very few hiccups, to finally record an impressive 120 off-the-stick. Well done, Fox team. Although, it needs to be noted they only just snuck in beating Paul Kennedy and Lance “Gator” Atwell by just 1 stroke.That folks is just 1 shot difference over 27 holes. The Nett winners were a new pairing of Peter Whitehead and Paul Osbourne. Their gross 125 then converted into a Nett 101.75---a really impressive result. The Nett runner-ups were Darryl Ward and Rob Ferguson, who recorded a Nett 104. Hearty congratulations to all winners. NTPs were taken out by Paul Osbourne (5th and 15th--- making for a very good day for Ossie) and to Robert Ferguson (9th).

Lilydale Lake tests athletes’ cross-country courage

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 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!

· Elsie Mitchell 15:04.3

· Elisabeth Coffey 15:22.6

· Sasha Maggs

16:21.5

· Bryan Ackerly 16:54.6

· Nicole Cannon 17:53.5

· Charlotte Strachan 17:56.7

· Renee Horsley 17:59.9

· Bradley McMeeken 18:22.2

· Acacia Anderson-Bonsor 18:36.5

· BethanyVine 18:42.4

· Kahlia Da Costa 18:42.6

· Adele Ellis 19:00.0

· Brienna Coffey 19:00.0

· Katie Clarke 19:43.5

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

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

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

Bethany and Kahlia found some mud on the course.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Warburton Golf Club results.

Picture: ON FILE

Round 5 turns up the heat

By Anne-Marie Ebbels

The second half of Round 5 had the majority of the club headed to Emerald and the Women’s team heading up to Olinda.

Playing conditions were better than expected no rain during the games at Emerald.

D Grade was the first to take the court in the netball, with a few players missing this week the team played in different positions than usual.

Healesville stuck with Emerald in the first quarter going into the break 3 goals down, Emerald took control of the game in the second quarter and extended their lead to 10 goals at half time.

Healesville struggled in the third quarter to score, but also restricted Emerald scoring opportunities.

Emerald ran out eventual winners by 19 goals.

It was a tough game for C Grade, Emerald came out in the first quarter and dominated the play which Healesville struggled to create scoring opportunities.

Emerald went into the half time break with a 13-goal lead.

Healesville had their highest scoring quarters in third quarter but Emerald managed to

extend their lead to 19 goals.

At the final siren, Emerald were winners by 29 goals.

The young Healesville B Grade team had a tough first quarter against the more experienced Emerald team.

They hit back in the second quarter going almost goal for goal with Emerald.

Emerald came out in the third quarter and put their foot down with a 20 goal quarter to go into the final break with a 31 goal lead.

Emerald ran out winners by 48 goals.

In the final netball game of the day, A grade took on the ladder leaders Emerald.

Emerald took control right from the start of the game and starved Healesville of scoring opportunities, but Healesville made the most of them when they could.

It was the best game so far this season the Healesville team has played as they start to work well together as the new line-up starts to gel and find their best position.

Emerald ran out winners by 36 goals.

The Men Reserves had tug-of -war in the first half with Healesville going into quarter two points up and Emerald took the lead at half time with a eight point lead.

Emerald out-scored Healesville seven goals

to two in the third quarter going into the final quarter with a 40-point lead.

Emerald continued to remain on top of the Healesville increasing their lead to a winning 49 points.

In the last game at Emerald, the Senior Men’s team came out and put the undefeated Emerald team under a lot of pressure resulting in a couple of turnovers to get the score on the board.

The first quarter was highly contested with both team scoring four goals.

The second quarter was much of a repeat of the first with Emerald going into half time with a 14-point lead.

Emerald kept Healesville scoreless in the third quarter, but Healesville only allowed Emerald to extend the lead to 23 points at the final change.

Healesville continued to apply the pressure in the final quarter, but the weight of scoring shot by Emerald saw them run out winners by 28 points.

The women’s played the late game at Olinda in the worst conditions of the day with rain for most of the game which resulted in challenging conditions in the low scoring game.

Healesville dominant the possession and held the ball in their forward for 90% of

the game leading the game from start to finish in the slippery conditions.

Healesville remains undefeated so far this season, beating Olinda-Ferny Creek by 30 points.

Results

Netball

· A Grade Healesville 40 defeated by Emerald

76 Best: B Erickson, K Farrow, J Agnew

· B Grade Healesville 29 defeated by Emerald

77 Best: A McMaster, Z Boundy, H Blackney

· C Grade Healesville 12 defeated by Emerald

41 Best: C Haywood, T Pinkster, K Deuart

· D Grade Healesville 14 defeated by Emerald

33 Best: E Birch, J Petersen, J Watson

Football

· Senior Mens Healesville 8.11 defeated by Emerald 12.21 Best: L Daly, W KristellyKelety, D Plozza, M Renouf, M Donegan, N Mende

· Reserve Mens Healesville 6.8 defeated by Emerald 14. 9 Best: J Draper, P Houlihan, C Boeder, R Hargreaves, B Anthanasopoulos, R Hay

· Senior Women Healesville 4.7 defeated Olinda-Ferny Creek 0.1 Best: I Stock, S Morris, K Methven, E Cianci, I Renouf, D Carrucan

Horse Talk: Keeping busy over the winter, off saddle

By Anita Prowse

With the very ordinary rainy and cold days that we can get throughout winter months, it’s nice to have some other activities to keep warm while enjoying our love for all things equine.

Our Riders Without Horses members got to keep warm in the kitchen making these treats. These horse-friendly doughnut horse treats are yummy enough to eat yourself. The added ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory and is helpful for horses prone to Colic.

These doughnuts look really pretty and are the perfect gift for a pony owner. You could also sell your homemade horse treats at the next showgrounds’ bake sale, If you don’t have oat flour, you can blend whole oats in a food processor.

Ingredients

· 1 ½ cups Oat flour

· 1 medium apple, grated

· ¾ cup peanut butter

· Rainbow sprinkles

· 1 teaspoon ginger spice

· For The Icing

· 1 cup powdered sugar

· 2 tbsp water

Method

Doughnuts

1. Preheat your oven to 325?/ 160?

2. In a large bowl, mix the ginger spice into the flour

3. Squeeze the moisture out of the grated apple using a paper towel

4. Add the apple mix into the flour mixture

5. Stir while adding water a little at a time until a dough forms

6. Roll ping-pong ball-sized chunks of batter

and place them on a lined baking tray

7. Flatten each ball slightly and press a hole through the centre with a wooden spoon handle

8. Bake for 20-30 minutes until golden

9. Leave to cool completely

Icing

1. Put the icing sugar in a small bowl and slowly add water a teaspoon at a time until the icing is smooth and a little runny. Ice cooled doughnuts and decorate with sprinkles.

Riders Without Horses in the kitchen making the horse-friendly treats. Picture: SUPPLIED

Jordyn Agnew looking for options.

Mia Ericksen in a contest for the ball.

Pictures: KYLIE ROWE

SPORT

Wandin triumphs at home

By Callum Ludwig

Woori Yallock headed down the Warburton Highway to the Kennel to face an undefeated Wandin side in Round 5 of the Outer East Premier Division.

In the end, it was a game of numbers, as the Tigers piled numbers behind the ball in an attempt to curb the Dogs scoring power. This gaveWandin control of the contest and ground position for most of the day, and they converted enough of their opportunities to secure the 13.15, 98 to 8.5, 53 victory.

There was a good spread of goalkickers for the Dogs, with Aaron Mullett kicking 3, Clinton Johnson and Jordan Jaworski 2 and one apiece for Josh James, Tom Merlino, Brodie Atkins, Cody Hirst, Connor Smith and Harrison Byrne.

Andres Baker, Sam Hodgett, Connor Smith, Chayce Black, Patty Bruzzese and C Hirst were the top dogs on the day.

ForWoori, Zach Monkhorst and JordanWilliams kicked 3 goals each, with a snag each for Alex Marsh and Angus Smith.

Jordan Williams, Kody Busoli, Oscar Simpson, Jude Hay, Alex Marsh and Luke Boontjes were the Tiger’s best.

Wandin players tune in for the three-quarter time address. Picture: SUPPLIED

Warburton-Millgrove take five wins from six matches

By Callum Ludwig

Another home game for the Burras and another 5/6 wins secured. A special weekend, as Tim McKail played his 250th game which also honours him with Life Membership for the club.

17s started up first in a big match of 2 undefeated teams. The 17s went out strong, being up by 4 goals by the halftime break. Alexandra put up 6 goals in the 3rd quarter, but Burras managed to get 5, giving them a lead of 3 goals by the last break. It became close in the end, but the team remains undefeated securing a 2-goal win. Lucas Rush, Tegan Butcher and Tahlia Thornton all were top performers in the game. Lucas also managed to secure 9 goals to the team’s win, Tayah Humphrey with 7 and Tahlia Thornton with 2.

A bye for D grade and C Grade were next on the court. A big start for C Grade as they shot 16- 2 by quarter time. The second quarter was just as accurate with a halftime score of 30-4. The team worked flawlessly from the defence all the way to the goals. The mid-court transition worked well and they put it to the goalers effortlessly. The final score was 54-13 with Mel Hancock putting up 31 goals, Cam Holland (50 Games) with 12 and Ella Meerkotter with 11. Amy Morris, Melanie Hancock and Bianca Fraser were all awarded best for this match.

Reserves took the field next in another game that was a clash of the undefeated. 4.3-27 to 1.1-7 was the quarter-time score and the boys looked strong. 5 goals were secured in the second quarter to Alexandra’s 2. They kept the momentum going right until the end and secured the win 17.17-119 to Alexandra 2.3-15. Damien Egan had another mega game kicking 6 goals (that is 24 goals in 3 games). Josh Read also secured 5 goals to his name, Matt Sidari with 2 and Marcel Kocher, Hudson Semple, Christian Toy and Aaron Walley all had 1 goal each. Jackson Jones was strong in the back line, being awarded best on. Joshua Read, Marcel Kocher, David Bedggood, Kobi Gay and Damien Egan were all also awarded top performers in the team’s win. The boys sit nicely on top with a massive 743.90 percentage, only having 82 points scored against them in 5 games.

B Grade were on next. Some big wins for the day already. 16-3 the Burras’ way, was the score at the first break. Strong defence and securing the ball all the way down the court to the goals. B Grade kept the momentum going but Alexandra slowly started to secure more goals. The score at the last break was 17-32, but the B Grade girls didn’t look of slowing down. The final score was 42 to

20 with Jordana Butcher putting up 18 goals, Alex Woods with 14 and Emily Hay with 10. Taylah Moschetti, Katelin Borondy and Jordana Butcher were all awarded top performers.

A Grade finished off the netball in another mega win. 33 to 8 by half time and the team only became stronger. With strong defensive efforts and the passing to goalers being strong, the team secured a massive 72-17 victory with Coach, Karly Wappett securing 35 goals, Bianca Daniels with 21 (despite being injured) and Shae Gee with 16. Karly Wappett, Ally Langdon and Gabrielle Woods were all awarded best on.

Seniors finished off the Round in a big match for Captain, Tim McKail’s 250th game. An even start with a score of 2.4-16 for both teams. Warby-Millgrove took control more of the second quarter, having a halftime score of 6.8-44 to Alexandra 3.7-25. Alexandra comes out firing in the third quarter, scoring 5.1 to Warburton-Millgrove’s 1.2, giving them a lead of 4 points at 3 quarter-time break. Unfortunately, Alexandra was too good in the end, securing 3.2 to the Burras 2.3, in the last

quarter giving them a win with the final score being 9.13-67 to Alexandra 11.10-67. The boys still remain on top of the ladder, meaning 6/7 Burra teams are in the top spot and B grade in 3rd. Nelson Aldridge and Tom Marr both secured 2 goals. Whilst, Trent Elliott,

Bailey Humphrey, James Iacono, Tim McKail and Liam Westlake all had 1 each. Nelson Aldridge, Thomas Marr, Tim McKail, Patrick Huynh, Dylan Walker and Shawn Andueza were all top performers for the match. Onto next week against Broadford at home.

Tim McKail was celebrated fo 250 games for the Burras. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Tim McKail in action during his milestone game.

SPORT Dragons warm up for draw

A cold start meant it took a little while to get into things.

Great goals by Mitchy and Kai, and a corner from Ethan which lead to an own goal by the opposition.

The boys were impressed again with great defence and passing.

It was cold and wet in Berwick for the U8 Strikers this morning.

Just before kick-off there was a boot malfunction, but thanks to some sideline taping by Dad, that boot went on to kick three goals - great work Logan!

The boys are were starting to work together with the game seeing some great passing.

Finally ending in a 6-3 win over Berwick, the game was fantastic to watch.

The U9 Redbacks drew 2-2 at home against the Lilydale Eagles.

It was a nail-biting game with some excellent link-up play and assists from Ash, Willis, Isaac and Rory.

Down 2-0 the Redbacks knuckled down and came out blazing for the second half, scoring twice.

With a fantastic strike from Arlo and a delightful looping free-kick from Max the score line was even.

Some last-minute goalkeeping excellence from Billy saved the day. It was a great competitive game of soccer.

U9 White Knights lost to Berwick 4-2. With three players out from illness the team had to borrow three U8’s.

Berwick played a physical game with three balls easily finding the back of the net.

The U10 Healesville Whites put on a great display of team work and co-operation.

Started off 0-1 down…Finished off Healesville 7 to Blackburn U10 Stingrays 1.

Amazing performances all round.

The team’s attention, attitude and awareness were impressive.

Wet and cold but the Healesville U14 girls Whites were absolute legends, playing some of the best football they’ve played so far this season.

Unfortunately, they lost 6-2 with Ava Holman kicking both goals, but it was against the team sitting top of the table.

The girls seemed really happy and proud of how they all played, and walked off the pitch with heads held high.

Senior women

It’s always exciting when the two valleys line

up to face each other.

The two friendly senior women’s rivals YarraValley and Healesville were each keen to get another win on the board.

The only senior team to take to the Don Road pitch on Saturday afternoon, the cars piled in, lining up against the fence with an enthusiastic crowd for both opponents and an even more exuberant linesperson demonstrating great flag reflexes, well done Steve Campbell some great flair there!

It was a tough first half with the teams evenly matched but running hard to get the first score.

Yarra Valley managed to beat Healesville to the punch just before half time to secure a 1-0 lead and create a tense half time break.

Healesville women then hit the pitch with more determination then ever in the second half and ran hard to get back in the game with Maddie Campbell converting a penalty in front of goal shortly after.

It was a highly competitive match with great footwork passing and skills from both opponents but with a final sailing ball from the boot of Maddie Campbell our Healesville Senior Women secured their 6th win from 6.

Senior men

The Healesville men Seniors and Reserves made the trip down to Grices Road Reserve to vs Berwick. It was a cool Autumn afternoon with the chance of a late shower.

With a few injuries this week and some players away, it looked like it was going to require an all-in effort from the whole team.

The guys started off strong with a few early chances from both teams.

Just before the end of the first half, Anthony Cutri was awarded a free kick just outside the box. With a great strike the keeper managed to save the ball but had fumbled it out with Daniel quickly following up to put Healesville in front just before halftime.

Starting the second half, Berwick needed to capitalise.

A free quick was award outside the box.

The swinging ball came off a Healesville head to go in the back of the net. Scores 1-1. The play being very even, Healesville had their chance.

Reserves player Blake made a run forward, passing it square to Anthony Cutri who was in prime position to finish.

A shot and goal!

Healesville battled in the pouring rain with a lot of pressure from Berwick in the dying stages to come away with a 2-1 victory. There are still spaces available for our senior men’s teams, join us for great competition, friendly team environment, fitness and fun. Contact healesvillesoccerclub@outlook.com

Other results:

· U14 mixed 4-6 loss to Blackburn

· U12 mixed 4-8 loss to Knox

Two years running for basketball star playing for Vic

By Tanya Steele

Young

Healesville basketballer Brylee Ander-

son has made the BasketballVictoria Under 16 basketball Victorian Country women’s team for the second year in a row and will go to play in the Australian Championships

Brylee said she is very excited to make the team again this year.

“Last year was one of the best experiences I have ever had and I can’t wait to have the opportunity again this year,” she said.

Basketball Victoria High Performance Hub Lead Coach Mat Holmes is also very proud to work with Brylee again.

“She’s back again for the second time, which is great,” he said.

“It’s quite exceptional to make it at a bottom, then top age,”

Holmes said Brylee had shown a real ability on the basketball court in her ability to get into the paint.

“She is hard to guard because of her speed and skillset,” he said.

Holmes has worked with Brylee for many years and said he is proud she keeps achieving the way she does.

“As a player her athleticism and coachability is a real plus, she takes everything on board and tries everything,” he said.

Holmes himself is two times Victorian Country Male Coach of the Year, and his Gippsland Hub out of Traralgan has kids travelling from all over regionalVictoria to train on the high-performance team.

Brylee said that going to training each

week all around Victoria takes up a lot of time and effort from both her and my family, they average around 500 km a week travelling to training.

“But it is all worth it when I get experiences like this,” she said.

“I am lucky that I don’t have too much homework at the moment so I haven’t had to worry about it while travelling to and from training.”

Bryle said she first got into the sport when she began playing mini-ball in Healesville at the age of five.

“From there I started doing after school basketball with my older cousin Brayden as a coach and ever since then I have loved the game,” she said.

Moving on from after school basketball Brylee said she then went on to play for Mount

Lilydale Lakers for her regular domestic basketball.

“I have loved it there and they have given me so much support and encouragement, my representative club has always been the Kilsyth Cobras,” she said.

“They taught me so much and helped to get me where I am today.”

Brylee was also selected for the School Sport Victoria under 15 girls team for the second year in a row for football.

“This year I will be heading to Ballarat at the end of July for a week-long tournament, I am also very excited about this experience and grateful to have this opportunity again this year,” she said.

“I started playing footy at Healesville Junior football club and still play whenever I can in between basketball commitments.”

In later July, Brylee will be heading to Perth with her team at Basketball Victoria for the Australian Junior Championships and said she is very excited to compete in Perth again.

“I am hoping to bring home a medal this year after just falling short last year,” she said. Brylee said the sport gives back because she gets friends along the way with so many different people. The young athlete will be fundraising for her upcoming trip through the Australian Sports Foundation and has her eye on her goals.

“At the moment I am just going to keep working hard to improve as well as enjoying the game and the experiences and will see where the game takes me,” she said.

Brylee’s fundraising page is located at: www.asf.org.au/projects/brylee-anderson2023-duel-sports-state-athlete

Brylee with her Coach Matt.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Brylee displays great promise and enjoys making friends and competing.

Picture: BASKETBALL AUSTRALIA

Healesville Senior Men celebrate with the team song after a 2-1 win over Berwick. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Healesville Womens Captain Sarah Cunnian going for a goal.

A quick repair job by Dad, then Logan followed up with three goals!

BEST PRICE, BEST TANKS WITH A LIFETIME GUARANTEE

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Concrete tanks built correctly will last a lifetime!

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

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

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

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