The Lilydale CFA Fire Brigade is planning to commemorate its founding captain, Joseph Smith, and his wife Isabella Smith (nee) Supple with a plaque at the station’s memorial garden.
Lieutenant Dan Nolan is on the look out for members of both the Smith and Supple families to unveil the plaque later this year. Turn to page 5 for more
A beloved crossing guard will be hanging up the high vis in Croydon North after 44 years of service at Yarra Road Primary School.
‘It’s time to pack up the uniform, fold up the flags and pass the stop sign over to someone new and retire,” she said.
Ms Carmel Black began as a crossing guard at the primary school when she saw an advertisement that hadn’t been filled by what was
then Croydon City Council.
She asked if she could help and she got training, initially Ms Black said she was only going to do it until they found someone permanent.
“I stayed because I love the job and adore the children, they have shared so much with me and they are like an extended family,” she said.
Ms Black said she could write a book about what the children have told her over the years,
with at least two generations of families passing by her stop sign.
The area itself has changed a lot, Ms Black said that the school was much bigger and the area a lot busier.
“We’ve got over 300 students now and originally there were only around 100,” she said.
Ms Black said her own children who attended Yarra Road enjoyed going to school early with her and playing at the playground after school finished for the day.
“It’s just been a pleasure,” she said.
Ms Black has devoted a lifetime to her community and has decided to retire at the end of the current school term.
Rain, hail or shine Ms Black has served her community faithfully and takes a lot of satisfaction in her role as crossing guard.
“Knowing they get to school and home safely makes you feel good,” she said.
Turn to page 11 for more
Adam Brown claimed his wife had tried to attack him in their kitchen, when he plunged a blade deep into her neck and chest.
While their two-year-old son was in another room, the Deakin University lecturer stabbed Chen Cheng after an argument about the toddler’s kindergarten arrangements.
“We were basically at each other with knives,” Brown told police when he was arrested.
But a Supreme Court judge shut down Brown’s story, as he jailed him for up to 24 years on Tuesday.
Justice John Champion said there was a clear disparity between the 35-year-old mother’s “catastrophic” fatal stab wounds and the 41-year-old’s minor injuries.
“Ms Cheng fought for her life against your attack on her,” he said.
“It is clear that you had an opportunity to stop, put the knife down and walk away from the argument. Instead you engaged in what you knew to be morally abhorrent behaviour.”
Neighbours found Ms Cheng’s lifeless body on the grass in the backyard of the family’s Croydon North unit. They rushed to the home after hearing her scream: “Help me, help me, he’s trying to kill me.”
Ms Cheng was born in China and the cou-
ple met in 2016 after she moved to Melbourne for university. They married a year later and Ms Cheng gave birth to their son in 2020.
Her mother, who stayed with the couple after their son was born, witnessed arguments between them and became worried about their marriage when she returned home to China. She started calling her daughter every day.
On April 30 last year, Ms Cheng was on WeChat to her mother for 77 minutes while she had dinner with Brown and their son.
After the call, the couple began fighting in an upstairs room about 9.30pm, before moving down to their kitchen.
Justice Champion said Brown had been triggered by the argument when he entered into a “state of rage”.
He felt humiliated by Ms Cheng, and claimed he was trying to restrain her after she spat at him and hit him around his ears.
Brown stabbed and cut his wife more than 10 times between their kitchen and backyard.
He admitted the killing during his first police interview and later formally pleaded guilty to murder.
Ms Cheng was physically smaller and more vulnerable than Brown, who overpowered her in the “savage and sustained attack”, Justice Champion said.
He said the murder of an intimate partner was utterly reprehensible and all too common in Australia.
Brown had deprived his son of both his parents at a young age, he said, and Ms Cheng’s family of a beloved daughter, sister and niece.
“You have permanently impacted the lives of so many people,” Justice Champion said in sentencing Brown.
Brown, who waved to family members as he was escorted out of court, will be eligible for parole after 17-and-a-half years. He has already served more than a year of his sentence.
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Energy prices are set to rise by 25 per cent across Victoria, with businesses throughout the Yarra Ranges already feeling the cost pressures.
The Australian Energy Regulator announced on 25 May its final determination for the default market offer, a price safety net that “protects consumers from unjustifiably high prices and applies to household and small business customers,” with wholesale energy prices driving retail electricity prices higher.
Victoria’s Essential Services Commission also confirmed energy prices in the state would rise around 25 per cent.
On 25 May, Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen said when the AER provided the government with a forecast in 2022, Australians were facing price rises of between 40 and 50 per cent.
“That’s why the Government acted in December to cap coal and gas prices and why we worked with states and territories to deliver up to $3 billion in direct relief for the most vulnerable households and small businesses,” he said.
“In the longer term, we are getting more renewables in the grid through Rewiring the Nation and the Capacity Investment Scheme because the cheapest form of energy is
firmed renewable energy and this will take pressure off bills and help shield Australians from volatile international energy prices.”
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, Casey MP Aaron Violi and Energy Shadow Minister Ted O’Brien visited Aussie Growers Fruit in Seville on Monday 29 May to discuss the impact of rising energy costs for businesses around the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.
Mr O’Brien said food businesses across the country “are feeling the pain of Labor’s energy bills”.
“This business alone has seen their energy bills jump by $200,000 since Labor has come to office. That’s up to 50 per cent increases in their energy bills,” he said.
“The Coalition put the importance of supply and industry at the centre of its policies.
“We’ve been saying from day one with the Labor Government, we need more supply, more supply, more supply, especially of gas, but instead, the Labor Party has been ideological and they have attacked the gas industry.”
Mr Violi said after talking to local businesses like Aussie Fruit Growers and Yarra Valley Hilltop, they made it clear rising energy prices have already had “a massive impact on businesses in Casey and it is going to get worse.”
“Yarra Valley Hilltop is just one of the hundreds of businesses, particularly in manufacturing and food manufacturing, which are high-energy industries,” he said.
“They are representative of so many manufacturing businesses and I’ve worked in the industry: They use a lot of energy, but their energy bills have gone up over 50 per cent in the last 12 months.”
MrVioli said the government has failed to live up to promises at the 2022 federal election to reduce power prices.
“The government promised the Australian people 97 times before the election that they would reduce power bills by $275,” he said.
“The Prime Minister promised that reduction 30 times after Russia invaded Ukraine, so he can’t say that the circumstances changed.”
Some of the lowest-earning Australians will receive a wage increase from 1 July, after the FairWork Commission announced an increase to minimum and award wages.
On Friday 2 June, the Commission announced that award rates of pay would be increased by 5.75 per cent and the National Minimum Wage by 5.75 per cent from 1 July.
The Fairwork Commission said there were currently 121 modern awards throughout various industries and occupations.
“Approximately 20.5 per cent of employees are paid in accordance with minimum wage rates in modern awards,” the Commission said.
“There are some additional categories of employees who are also affected by the Review in a less direct way by Review outcomes being ‘flowed on’ by various means.”
The new minimum wage will be $23.23 an hour or $882.80 for a 38-hour work week.
The Commission said it “acknowledges that the increase will not maintain the real value of modern award minimum wages nor reverse the reduction in real value which occurred over recent years.”
“However, the level of wage increase we have determined is, we consider, the most that can reasonably be justified in the current economic circumstances,” it said.
“In the medium to long term, it is desirable that modern award minimum wages maintain their real value and increase in line with the trend rate of national productivity growth.”
Police seek owner of a smartwatch Mooroolbark Police are seeking an owner for a smartwatch located on Akima Terrace, Mooroolbark, handed to the police on 6 April this year.
As yet no owner has been identified.
If you believe you are the owner of the watch, contact Mooroolbark Police on 9725 9999. Public assistance sought
Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate Aaron Kelly.
The 30-year-old man is wanted on a warrant in relation to criminal damage and bail offences.
Kelly is described as Caucasian with olive skin, approximately 170cm tall, with blue eyes and short brown hair and a distinctive neck tattoo. He is known to frequent the Mooroolbark, Bayswater and Notting Hill areas.
Investigators have released an image of Kelly in the hope someone may be able to provide information on his current whereabouts. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com.au
Victorian Liberal Ryan Smith did not inform his party leader before quitting parliament and triggering a by-election test for the party amid simmering internal tensions.
The veteran MP and former minister has been the member for Warrandyte in Melbourne’s east for 16 years and his last day will be 7 July .
“I have become increasingly uncomfortable with the growing negative tone of politics, both internally and more broadly,“ Mr Smith said in the statement on Wednesday.
He served as minister for environment and youth affairs during the Baillieu and Napthine governments, before holding multiple shadow portfolios when the Liberals returned to opposition in 2014.
Victorian Liberal leader John Pesutto learnt of Mr Smith’s resignation when he read his statement, which did not thank or mention the party’s leadership team.
He refrained from criticising Mr Smith for exiting politics about six months after he was re-elected for another four-year term.
“These things happen. People contest elections in the hope and expectation that we would win,“ Mr Pesutto told reporters.
The Liberal Party has been beset by internal ruptures between conservative and more moderate members since last year’s state election.
Most recently it has been dealing with fallout of expelling first-term MP Moira Deeming after she attended an anti-transgender rights rally and threatened Mr Pesutto with defamation action.
At this month’s state conference in Bendigo, Mr Pesutto was booed and heckled by Ms Deeming’s supporters.
The saga prompted Federal Opposition Leader Peter Dutton to flag the prospect of
federal intervention in the Victorian branch if it could not resolve its issues.
Mr Pesutto expects the Warrandyte byelection to be held in mid-to-late August, four months after the coalition’s historic by-election loss in the nearby federal seat of Aston.
The Victorian Liberal leader plans to work closely with party administrators on a preselection pick in a bid to boost its chance of retaining the seat.
“We’re going to throw everything at it,“ he said.
Mr Pesutto wants a woman to be considered for preselection, with 21 of the 30 Victorian Liberals’ MPs being men.
Mr Smith put his hand up as a leadership contender after the coalition’s election thumping before swinging his support behind Berwick MP Brad Battin, who lost to Mr Pesutto by a single vote.
He was then not included in Mr Pesutto’s shadow cabinet.
In November, the Warrandyte MP received roughly 47 per cent of the primary vote to comfortably fend off Labor’s candidate Naomi Oakley.
Premier Daniel Andrews said it was a matter for the Victorian Labor Party whether it contests the by-election but wished Mr Smith well.
“To be your local community’s voice is an enormous privilege,“ he said.
“When others lost their seats out east he hung on to his and that means something. It means he works hard.“
It will be the first Victorian state by-election to be held since 2017, when Northcote MP Fiona Richardson died after a battle with cancer.
The Liberals won a supplementary election for the regional Victorian seat of Narracan in January after the sudden death of Nationals candidate Shaun Gilchrist. MP Ryan Smith.
A Lilydale Fire Brigade lieutenant is looking to commemorate the brigade’s first captain, Joseph Smith, who died in the line of service.
Lieutenant Daniel Nolan is organising a special commemorative plague and service for Mr Smith, who was elected captain of the Lilydale Fire Brigade in 1904.
“He was instrumental in getting the original fire shed put up in Clarke Street and also the purchase of the bell, which was made in Sale and transported, costing nine shillings and one penny,” Mr Nolan said.
“The bell was subsequently hung in the belfry above the rotunda which used to sit outside the Crown Hotel, The White Dog pub.“
The first time the bell was rung, Mr Nolan
said, was for a fire near the Cave Hill quarry.
“They had a whole bunch of hoses on a cart… they went down there, put the fire out, and when they were coming back, somewhere between the gates to the quarry and the railway crossing, Captain Smith collapsed.
“When the other firefighters with their torches went to check him, they saw that he was deceased.
“He was only 34 years of age.”
Mr Smith and his wife Isabella Smith (nee) Supple, had been married for less than a year before his death, and had no children.
“[Isabella] continued to run the butcher shop with, apart from other people, other members of the Supple family. She retired in 1931 odd, and she died in 1959.
Mr Nolan said there were 63 vehicles and 50 horseman at Mr Smith’s funeral, with brigade members carrying their captain to his resting place at the Lilydale Lawn Cemetery.
While Mr Smith’s photo is on the brigade’s honour board, Mr Nolan said there was no more information on how the captain died.
Mr Nolan said, with plans to upgrade the gardens at the front of the station, it would be apt to have a plaque commemorating Joseph and Isabella Smith unveiled by members of both families.
Mr Nolan said the memorial would also be a nod to partners of firefighters.
“Every time brigade members attend a call, we’ve got wives, husbands, partners and families who will wait our safe return,“ he said.
“The actual stone we’ve got out in front of our fire station is a flat piece of rock and it’s actually from the quarry, which was where Captain Smith went to his last call.“
With permission from the Smith and Supple families, Mr Nolan hopes to unveil the memorial in September, October or November 2023.
“Any fire brigade that has a line of duty death or a loss would normally have a plaque or a memorial garden or something of that kind, so I think it’d be a really nice thing to do for the family and to acknowledge him as our first captain.“
If you have information on Joseph and Isabella Smith, or are a member of the family, you can contact Mr Nolan at the Lilydale Fire Brigade on 9735 5541.
By Tanya Steele
Yarra Ranges Council hosted an in-person event for National Reconciliation Week, with a packed live theatre at The Memo with powerful Indigenous keynote speakers, interviews, Q and A, a live panel and musical entertainment on 1 June.
Brooke Wandin, a proud Wurundgeri woman, opened the event with aWelcome to Country and spoke about her connection to Healesville.
“Ilovethisplace.Iamsodeeplyrootedhere, I doubt I will live anywhere else,” she said.
Mayor Jim Child acknowledged the importance of reconciliation and said he was supporting people to have an open mind at the upcoming referendum on an IndigenousVoice to Parliament.
“Together we can all build on our reconciliation journey as a municipality a state and a nation,” he said.
Ms Wandin said recent media and news coverage could be hard to hear and while there was no doubt that many changes had occurred in Australia and for the better, there was still progress to be made.
“However, the more things change, the more they stay the same. I choose to speak at this event, I have friendships and relationships with you and others all across this region, a place where I feel safe,” she said.
She said she felt a responsibility to this country and her ancestors, family and the continuum of her people.
The event featured powerful speeches by two keynote speakers, — Rueben Berg and Aunty Jill Galagher — pre-recorded performances by Djirri djirri dancers and live music by Pirritu - Brett Lee and didgeridoo and yudaki player Kiernan Ironfield.
Proud Gunditjmara man Rueben Berg, representative for the metropolitan region First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, said he was strangely reminded of the 1937 aspirations of the Australian Government when they decided that Aboriginal people who were not full blood should be absorbed or assimilated into the broader population.
“I am reminded that sometimes when the government fails, that is actually a good thing,” he said.
Mr Berg said the aspirations of First Nations People were leading the nation towards the realisation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Australian Government was actually just complying with what the rest of the globe has recognised.
“Victoria is already kicking goals in that area and we have made some really significant progress along the lines of voice, treaty and truth,” he said.
“Here inVictoria, we already have aVoice in the First Peoples Assembly.”
Young Richmond footballer and Tiwi man Daniel Rioli was interviewed in person by Nelson Aldridge a Taungurung man and Yarra Ranges Council cultural recovery coordinator.
Mr Rioli said how important family and culture are to him and talked about his time on Country and how he felt when he first moved to Victoria and lived in Ballarat away from his home in the Tiwi Islands.
“I was homesick at first whenever I spoke to mum and dad on the phone from Ballarat,” he said.
“Moving to the big smoke was new to me and I got lots of friends from the footy community, it is different but it is going nice so far.”
Mr Rioli said returning to home and Country was really important the community there doesn’t see him as a football player.
“They see me as Daniel and keep me grounded. I love going home,” he said.
Nikki Madgwick, proudWorimi Biripi woman and Engagement Team Leader at Oonah Health and Community Services presented the work the organisation has done throughout the outer east of Melbourne since it began in Healesville in 2009.
“Originally the view was we would be in Healesville and service the Yarra Ranges, Amazingly we have been able to broaden our delivery to a huge catchment,” she said.
OONAH presented a snapshot of their activities along with a video presentation of
their youth group which connects primary school-aged children with cultural education and learning about seasonal plants and bush tucker at Badger Weir led by Darren Wandin, Wurundjeri man.
Aunty Jill Gallagher, proud Gunditjmara woman from western Victoria, addressed the audience with a moving and powerful speech and said she was happy to see so many people in the room.
As a former treaty commissioner, along with other Aboriginal leaders, she designed and developed the First People Assembly that Victorians see today.
Ms Gallagher said she is often asked whether having an Aboriginal Voice in parliament would be divisive and her response was that there was already division in this country.
“We have to look at recent times. Stan Grant had no choice but to resign due to that division. When one of Australia’s most distinguished and revered journalists decides to walk away from their profession, as a direct result of racism, it is clear that something is still very wrong in our society,” she said.
“We have suffered that division — that racism — for the last 230 years.”
Ms Gallagher said intergenerational trauma had placed a severe burden on families and communities and discussed the brutal colonisation of south east Australia.
“Our children, our parents, our mothers, our fathers, our uncles, our aunties, our Elders, we’re all impacted heavily by colonisation,” she said.
“It’s about Australia having an Aboriginal voice, all Australians and the benefits that it will bring to you,” she said.
Ms Gallagher said it was not about making today’s generation feel guilty, but that people should stop being bystanders.
“We have got to make change and you can help us do that, our communities still feel the impacts of the crimes against humanity that were committed in this country in the name of colonisation,” she said.
The event concluded with a panel of discussion with Aunty Lea Jones, Dr Andrew Peters, Aunty Jill Gallagher and Rueben Berg.
Watch the recorded livestream at yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Experience/Events/Be-avoice-for-generations
The Victorian Government is funding 20 new dedicated women’s health clinics across the state, with one to come at Maroondah Hospital - soon to be renamed the Queen Elizabeth II Hospital.
The clinics will help provide care and aid for women throughout the outer east and will be best placed to assist with conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic pain, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and in managing perimenopause and menopause.
“We are pleased to receive news for improving the care of women across Victoria,” an Eastern Health spokesperson said.
“Eastern Health looks forward to working with the government on the specifics of this important investment into our community.”
Specialists such as gynaecologists and urologists will operate from the new clinic when it is in operation, with specialist nurses and allied health support also on site. An extra 100 scholarships will be provided to help train more of the staff that will service the clinics.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said in a statement that this comprehensive package to transform women’s health was about ensuring every Victorian woman could access the support and treatment they need and deserve.
“We’re creating new services, delivering more surgery and training specialised staff to deliver the wraparound care and treatment Victorian women suffering from endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, and severe menopausal symptoms need.”
Five of the 20 clinics will be established each year for the next four years, with the order yet to be decided.
Premier Daniel Andrews said this package was about giving women’s health the focus and funding it deserves.
“For too long women haven’t been listened to and their health issues have been ignored,” he said.
By Callum Ludwig
The Victorian Government has made funding available for local councils facing flood risks to help keep their mapping, planning and preparation up to date.
Water Minister and Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing, and Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny revealed an investment of $22.2 million on Tuesday 30 May to encourage councils to fast-track their flood studies and preparation, particularly after the October 2022 floods that hit multiple regions across the state.
“We appreciate this funding becoming available from the State Government, and will take it into consideration when undertaking projects, like the development of our Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP) in coming months,“ director of planning and sustainable futures at Yarra Ranges Council Kath McClusky said.
“Flood mapping catchment prioritisation will be a key part of the SWMP once it gets
underway, and we will share more with the community as it progresses.“
In areas of the Yarra Ranges such as Lily-
dale, Seville, Coldstream and Mooroolbark, close to 75mm of rain fell in around an hour and a half, with a five-minute window of rain
falling at an astonishing 120mm per hour on Tuesday 26 October 2022.
“We’re helping any remaining local council to fast-track updates to their flood maps and other data to ensure we have the best information on the risk of flooding,“ Ms Shing said.
“These flood studies will support emergency management activities, planning decisions and individual landowners living on the floodplains.”
$10 million of the funding package will complete an estimated 32 flood studies over five years, $5 million will fast-track the scoping process for more flood mitigation efforts over three years, $3.9 million over two years will help implement 40 flood studies into planning schemes and $2 million is put aside to help councils engage crucial landholders, builders and industries.
“We’re making sure the latest flood data is being reflected in Victorian planning schemes, to help create safer and more resilient towns across flood-prone parts of our state,“ Ms Kilkenny said.
“We’re doing what matters – removing the barriers that women face so they can get the care they need, when and where they need it.”An inquiry into women’s pain management and a Women’s Health Advisory Council will also be launched this year. Maroondah Hospital. Picture: ON FILE
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has rejected that his party’s opposition to a constitutionally recognised IndigenousVoice to Parliament will affect the re-election chances of MPs in marginal seats, despite the majority of Victorians supporting the change in recent polling.
All polling done by Essential, Roy Morgan and Newspoll in 2023 has reported that over 50 per cent ofVictorians support a yes vote on the referendum; this, combined with the electorates of Deakin and Casey being two of the most marginal inVictoria after the 2022 federal election, could create a precarious political situation for the Liberal Party.
When asked by the Star Mail about the Liberal party’s position on The Voice potentially affecting the re-election chances of MPs in marginal seats, Mr Dutton said it wouldn’t.
“I believe very strongly that in our business, the public expects us to be honest and to adhere to our values and to stand up and argue for what we believe in,” he said.
“If you sit on the fence in politics you end up believing in nothing and you end up, I think frankly, being a burden to your own community.”
Mr Dutton argued that constitutional recognition would receive overwhelming support, but currently Australians “don’t know the detail and we don’t know that’s going to
provide the practical outcomes of Indigenous Australians that we all burn for”.
Deakin MP Michael Sukkar holds his seat, which covers Croydon and Mooroolbark, on a margin of just 0.19 per cent or just 375 votes, while Casey MP Aaron Violi entered parliament in 2022 on a margin of 1.48 per cent.
Mr Violi said he didn’t believe the party’s position on The Voice would affect his re-election chances in the future.
“Ultimately, people vote and decide on a lot of different reasons. I’ve engaged with the community quite deeply and had a community forum in partnership with a group called Democracy Co yesterday,” he said.
“It was very clear from that meeting that there are different opinions on The Voice and also people are frustrated that they don’t have the information.”
BetweenOctoberandDecember,Australians
will vote on the following question:“A Proposed Law: to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait IslanderVoice. Do you approve this proposed alteration?”
Mr Violi said if the referendum failed this year, the blame would fall squarely on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
“There is bipartisan support for constitution recognition and there is support from the Liberal Party for local, regional and national voices, but you need to understand the detail is really important,” he said.
“I was speaking to a well-known, well-respected, local, Indigenous Wurundjeri leader just last week, and he doesn’t support theVoice and many in his community don’t support the Voice because the only information they’ve heard is through the media.
“When I asked if I could share his story, he didn’t want his name used for fear of repercussions for him and for other people. It’s quite sad that the people in Australia feel that they can’t voice their opinion.”
The Labor Party and Prime Minister Albanese made implementing the Uluru Statement from the Heart an election commitment at the 2022 federal election, which included a constitutionally recognised Voice to Parliament.
The next federal election will be held during or before 2025.
By Callum Ludwig
Agriculture Victoria is reminding horse owners they must register for a Property Identification Code (PIC), an important measure for protecting their ponies.
All Victorians with livestock, including horses are legally required to hold a PIC, an eight-character code that assists in contacting and tracing owners and their livestock, particularly in the event of an emergency.
Agriculture Victoria’s Manager Livestock Traceability Ben Fahy said in a statement that PICs provide horse owners with an extra level of protection during emergencies.
“If there’s a flood, fire or disease outbreak, we may need to reach out with concerns specific to your animals, or for emergency relief and recovery activities within an impacted area,” he said.
“Getting a PIC is quick, easy, and free via the AgricultureVictoria website – all that’s required is your contact details, the number of horses and the parcels of land where they’re kept.”
In the last two years, Yarra Ranges horse owners have had to tackle the June 2021 storm event and the October 2022 floods which threatened properties all over the region.
Treasurer of the Seville Pony Club Katie Gray said in an emergency, every second counts.
“Many pony club families suffered
extensive damage in last year’s floods such as washingawayofarenasandandfoundations, washing away of gravel driveways and some member houses suffered extensive damage and are now considered unliveable,” she said.
“Though not pony club horses, there were a number of reports of flooded properties with horses having no dry ground to stand on. At the pony club, we had damage to our riding facilities, with extensive loss of sand, damage to the base of the arena and damage to drainage.”
Horse and livestock owners are encouraged to regularly update their PIC details when circumstances change, such as a change in address, the addition of new species of livestock or changes to personal details.
Ms Gray said storms and bushfires are two other emergencies that horse owners may face locally.
“In the significant storms of 2021, we had over 20 trees down with some on fences. There is a risk that horses can escape when fence lines are not secure and they can also become spooked with trees falling, high winds, thunder, lightning and run through fences and at times escape properties,” she said.
“Whilst we haven’t had much of a bushfire scare in the last few years, prior to that we had a number of watch and act alerts. For pony club families this can mean loading up horses for transport and or leaving some horses behind.”
Ms Gray recommended that for any
FloodingthroughSevilleinOctober2022.
animals left behind, owners should consider removing rugs and writing mobile numbers on the horses.
When livestock is transferred between owners, whether sold, given away or bartered, the PIC of where the animals are kept must be included in any advertisement.
Ms Gray said for the purpose of the speed of communication, a PIC code is important.
“Having a PIC streamlines the process of contacting landowners of natural disasters that may affect them and this should make it easier and faster to get in touch in emergencies,” she said.
“Also up in New South Wales and Queensland, they have had issues with disease outbreaks such as Ross River and Hendra virus, a PIC code would be very helpful in contact tracing.”
Local horse owners can register for a PIC at agriculture.vic.gov.au/horsepic or ny calling 1800 678 779.
In early 2020, Lilydale local Louise Salenga was well into an eight-month ‘fitness journey’ after years of struggling with her weight and legs.
“I was going to the gym five, six times a week, tracking all of my food, even down to the macros,” Ms Salenga, 26, said.
“It’d always been like that throughout high school, and I noticed it become a thing - having larger legs - when I was in primary school,” Ms Salenga said.
“I got bullied for it and it stuck with me ever since.”
Consistently eating a low-carb inflammatory diet, sleeping eight hours a night and drinking water, Ms Salenga noticed her face and waist slimming, but not her legs and arms.
“I was so heartbroken,” she said.
It was after stumbling across photos of other women on the Instagram account of a German-based medical clinic that Ms Salenga discovered the condition lipoedema; a disease that causes a painful and abnormal accumulation of fat cells in the hips, thighs, buttocks, legs and sometimes arms.
On the Dr Heck LipoClinic page she saw other women with legs like her own, and learned that she was no the only one suffering from night cramps, restless legs, sensitivity to the slightest touch, bruising, and a painful tough nodule.
“Even the arm shape, the leg shape, all of the things that they would write on their page about different symptoms, I just thought ‘this is way too relatable. What if this is something I’ve got?’”
Ms Salenga eventually found Australianbased Doctor Chris Lekich; a phlebologist and the founder of Lipoedema Surgical SolutionWalk With Freedom, who confirmed that the then 24-year-old had the progressive condition.
“It was weight on and off my shoulders at the same time,” Ms Salenga said.
“The weight doesn’t really shift from the leg, no matter how many diets you do or exercise, it just doesn’t respond to it.
“Just like myself, sometimes you don’t realise you have it until you learn about it and go ‘hey, that’s actually what I’ve been experiencing’.”
Despite lipoedemia affecting one in 10 women in Australia, the condition is not recognised by the Australian government, and as a result, is still classed as a cosmetic procedure by Medicare.
This means that patients, including Ms Salega, can not receive rebate or benefits for life-changing water-assisted liposuction surgery aimed at removing diseased tissue and arresting the condition.
The cost of the procedure can amount to $30,000 per leg.
“I’m only 26 years old and so those numbers scare me because there’s so many other things I would like to do with my life as well, like travel or [buy a house],” Ms Salega said.
“It’s a big commitment if you want to go down that path, so one day, hopefully when Medicare can cover something, it will make it easier so that people like myself can think it’s doable and not feel like I need to give up my life just to have one surgery that will cure me.”
Ms Salenga is currently undergoing a conservative treatment plan, using custom-made flat knit compression to keep the swelling down and manual lymphatic drainage to also help with sensitivity.
“No matter how much I focus on my health or do everything I can, the mirror doesn’t reflect what I’m doing which becomes quite frustrating and very disheartening,” she said.
“But on the bright side, there are so many groups on Facebook and Instagram and there’s some influencers even now that are popping up on TikTok that have lipoedema and they’re Australian.
“It makes it feel like you’re not alone and all in this together.”
For Lipoedema Awareness Month in June, Ms Salenga took part in a professional photoshoot coordinated by Lipoedema Surgical Solution, alongside nine other women with the condition, to help others.
“A lot of the time my arms and legs have been a part of me that I’ve been always self conscious about. In these recent times, it might be just because I’m getting older, I would like to feel less trapped in my body or letting having those Insecurities take over and stop me from doing things I really want to try,” Ms Salenga said.
“On the day I was actually about to bail because I got so scared, and I was like ‘oh, maybe I should just say I’m sick or something,’ because, again, the Insecurities are taking over, I’m like ‘I really don’t know if I could do this,’ I don’t want to see myself online and be like, ‘oh, I hate it.’
“It was so much fun, and I felt so comfortable...I feel beautiful. And in that shoot too, I felt all of those Insecurities going away;
that was the last thing I was thinking about.”
Lipoedema was only recognised by The World Heath Organisation (WHO) in 2018, with Dr Chris Lekich and his team aiming to increase awareness of the often-misdiagnosed hereditary disease.
“The best way to build awareness is to showcase these women and their legs, which are usually hidden away, and this is the purpose behind our Lipoedema awareness photoshoots,” Dr Lekich said.
“We hope our awareness campaigns and our dedication to educating the medical community will help generations of women get an early diagnosis and intervention, to avoid a lifetime of physical and psychological pain. The more doctors, allied health professionals and general public who recognise this disease, the better care and compassion we can offer these ladies.”
Ms Salenga said even her own GP lacked understanding of her condition.
“A lot of women will trust their GPS to give them the information that the GP themselves don’t know.
“My GP kept correcting me saying, ‘oh, do you mean Lymphedema?’ I said: ‘No, it’s lipoedema. Lymphedema is completely different. And that’s not what I’ve got.’
“‘Oh, no, you mean lymphedema...’ I’m like okay, well, this isn’t happening, so change the subject.”
She said if there are women who can’t lose weight in their legs or upper arms, and believe they may have lipoedema after googling the symptoms, they should seek medical advice.
“It could be something that you might have or if you know someone in your family that might have it, or a friend, it might help them, might open their eyes and make them feel less alone.
“When I found out, I felt like I’m finally not the only one, and there’s other women out there who are going through the same mental struggle of feeling frustrated and wanting to raise awareness and get Medicare coverage so that we can have better mobility, have less pain.”
A beloved crossing guard will be hanging up the high vis in Croydon North after 44 years of service at Yarra Road Primary School.
Carmel Black has devoted a lifetime to her community and has decided to retire at the end of the school term.
“It’s time to pack up the uniform, fold up the flags and pass the stop sign over to someone new and retire,” she said.
Ms Black began as a crossing guard at the primary school when she saw an advertisement that hadn’t been filled by what was then the Croydon City Council.
She asked if she could help out and she got training. Initially, Ms Black said she was only going to do it until they found someone permanent.
“I stayed because I love the job and adore the children, they have shared so much with me and they are like an extended family,” she said.
Ms Black said she could write a book about what the children have told her over the years, with at least two generations of families passing by her stop sign.
“It’s just been a pleasure,” she said.
Ms Black is an avid reader and plans to sink into a few books or have a few leisurely lunches in her free time.
“I won’t have to watch the clock and I can enjoy some other things like the movies,” she said.
Ms Black also had a farewell luncheon after a crossing guard meeting on May 29 hosted by the Maroondah City Council along with some of her family in attendance.
“It was really beautiful, I thoroughly enjoyed that,” she said.
Ms Black said her own children who attended Yarra Road enjoyed going to school
early with her and playing at the playground after school finished for the day.
The area itself has changed a lot. Ms Black said that the school is much bigger and the area a lot busier.
“We’ve got over 300 students now and originally there were only around 100,” she said.
The school was originally surrounded by orchards, with many large Italian families attending - the crossing itself was a real asset to the people in the area.
“We’re surrounded by estates now and there is not one orchard left,” she said.
Pictures:
She plans to stay engaged with the school and will continue to do reading with the Preps and attend some of the school performances.
“I especially liked going to the grade six graduation,” she said.
Rain, hail or shine Ms Black has served her community faithfully and takes a lot of satisfaction in her role as crossing guard.
“Knowing they get to school and home safely makes you feel good,” she said.
“I’ll miss their happy, smiley faces, it’s been a good job and I’ve enjoyed it.”
Red Paint: The Ancestral Autobiography of a Coast Salish Punk, by author, poet and musician Sasha LaPointe, is recommended to our readers by Seattle UNESCO City of Literature.
Winner of the 2023 Pacific Northwest Book Award, Red Paint tells the heart-wrenching story of an Indigenous artist struggling to reclaim her heritage. Sasha’s narrative is both honest and intimate: “I have always wanted a permanent home, a place to feel safe... I wanted some place I could truly call mine.”.
When Sasha was a child, her parents had to work long hours wherever they could find jobs.
The family moved around a lot, often staying in barely habitable church attics and trailers, dangerous places for a young girl.
Having been raped at the age of ten, Sasha learntto run away. Years after her teenage homelessness, she learnt how to look after herself, to work and pay bills, and to study. When
her boyfriend proposed marriage on her 30th birthday, she said yes.
However, when Sasha was studying creative nonfiction at the Institute of American Indian Arts, her childhood agony came back to haunt her, prompted by an assignment requiring students to write a personal essay exploring their most traumatic memory.
The annual Victorian Drama League Awards proved to be a successful evening for Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre taking home two awards and nominated for eight other awards.
BestActor: in a minor role in a Drama: Lachlan Glennie as Philip Welch in The Deep Blue Sea. Best Actress in a Drama: Angela Glennie as Hester Collyer in The Deep Blue Sea
Othernominationsforawardswere:
· The Gold Award – The Noel Bennett & Chris Curchward Perpetual Trophy David DareThe Deep Blue Sea.
· Best Lighting Design in a Comedy Drama –Craig Pearcy - The Deep Blue Sea.
· Best Costume Design in a Comedy Drama –Maria Sanders - The Deep Blue Sea.
· Best Actress on a minor role Drama – Francesca Carl - The Deep Blue Sea.
· Best Supporting Actor in a Drama – Philip Lambert - The Deep Blue Sea.
· Best Actor in a Drama – Ben Freeland - The Deep Blue Sea.
· Best Director in a Drama – Alan BurrowsThe Deep Blue Sea.
· Best Drama Production - The Deep Blue Sea.
· Lyrebird Awards
· The Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre won an unprecedented 13 awards from 42 nominations.
· And the winners were:
· Best in comedy – Marinda Backaway for The Full Monty.
· Best Production – The Full Monty.
· Best Sound in comedy – Katie-Jane for Cosi.
· Best Lighting in Comedy – Craig Pearcy for Cosi.
· Best Costume in a Comedy – Maria Smedes for Cosi.
· Highly Commended Performance in a Comedy – Robert Clark for Cosi.
· Best Performer in a Supporting Female Role
– Jennifer Pacey for Cosi.
· Best Performer in a lead Female role – Adrienne George for Cosi.
· Best Performer in a lead Male role – Mark Crowe for Cosi..
· Best Director in a Comedy – Katie-Jane Amey for Cosi.
· Best costume in a Drama – Maria Smedes –The Deep Blue Sea.
· Highly Commended Performance in a Drama – Lisa Upson for The Deep Blue Sea.
· Best Performer in a Supporting Female Role
– Drama – Francesca Carl in The S=Deep Blue Sea.
Congratulations to all the above and for readers don’t forget your local theatre.
The next show at Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre is Joana Murray-Smith’s thriller Switzerland.
Church buildings often seem the only stable elements in our changing streetscapes. Mt Evelyn’s churches, on the other hand, have been continually relocated and repurposed.
Mt Evelyn’s first church was the Union Church, opened in 1920 on what is nowWatkins Crescent. Union Churches were usually established where congregations were too small to support a church for each Protestant denomination. Four churches worshipped there in the first year alone.
‘The church in the wildwood’ was bought out by the Methodists in the 1920s and became Uniting Church in 1977. The Anglican Church, after meeting initially in the Mechanics’ Institute, had a building moved up from Lilydale by bullock dray. Installed in Birmingham Road, it was dedicated as St Mark’s in 1924. The Presbyterian Church, also on Birmingham Road, was constructed by local builder George Pitt and dedicated in 1933. The original St Mary’s Catholic Church was built on Monbulk Road in 1939, a few doors down from the roundabout. The Christian Catholics, an Evangelical sect founded in Chicago in 1896, had a church on the Channel Road/Clematis Road corner from the 1940s. In 1952 the Church of Christ was built in Hereford Road near the Red Robin Milk Bar. The former Montrose
Karen Phillips
Mount Evelyn History Group editor
Church of Christ (built 1909) migrated along Swansea Road in 1985, to become the chapel at Chateau Wyuna. The Dutch community established the Reformed Church on Birmingham Road. The original building was the disused canteen from the Upper Yarra Dam construction. Moved to Mt Evelyn in 1953, it still stands as part of the church complex. St Mary’s Catholic Church moved to a larger site on Clegg Road in the 1960s. The original building in Monbulk Road is now a private home. The Church of Christ burnt down in the 1980s. A larger site was purchased on Monbulk Road, where the present ‘mud-brick church’ was built. There is a house on the Hereford Road site. Three other churches were sold: St Mark’s Anglican, the Uniting, and the Christian Catholic.
With that essay turning into a thesis and then a book, Sasha’s nightmares became far more intense and terrifying than those that she was used to in her younger years. She was plunged into a “spirit sickness” with lifethreatening symptoms such as frequent fainting and loss of breath.
“How long are you gonna let your trauma be your entire life?” Sasha’s husband screamed at her.
“It’s like all the women in your family, your mom, your grandma, you all have the same thing, you’re all sick.”
Both before and after this confrontation, Sasha experienced some of the most profound losses that any woman could ever imagine and/or endure. Yet, it is when she started retracing the footsteps of her grandmother and great-grandmother that she slowly began to understand her entire history, her identity, and the origins of her feelings of
distrust and displacement.
At one stage she offers these powerful and compelling words: “I hate the word ’brave’. Like I hate ’victim’, ’survivor,’ or ’squaw.’ I was tired of the names white people had given us... Call me a writer. Call me a riot grrrl. Call me Coast Salish or poet. Call me a girl who loves Nick Cave, and night swimming, and ramen, and Old Bikini Kill records. I no longer wished to be called resilient. Call me reckless, impatient, and emotional. Even Indigenous. Call me anything other than survivor. I am so many more things than brave.”
In Sasha’s culture, the red paint, made by rolling chunks of red clay around in one’s fingertips, is only for the healers.When she finally got to wear the red paint, it was a reminder of where she came from, with the power of healing already in her veins, like it had belonged to the generations of women before her.
Infinity Pool
Starring Alexander Skarsgard and Mia Goth
Rated R18+ 3.5/5
The latest sci-fi horror film from Brandon Cronenberg, Infinity Pool is a compelling, gruelling experience, yet falls short of Brandon’s prior films.
James (Alexander Skarsgard), a struggling writer, plunges into a macabre, hedonistic subculture in the island nation of Li Tolqa.
Antiviral and Possessor, Cronenberg’s first two films, are extremely dark satires of celebrity culture and the acting process (respectively), but Infinity Pool satirises wealthy tourists committing crimes abroad, mixed with mild musings about life without morality or consequence.
James starts as a somewhat bland everyman, but this allows us to project ourselves onto him and see how easily we could be seduced into an exciting, sadistic system.
After a hit-and-run incident, the first act introduces Li Tolqan justice in the form of doubling, wherein an exact clone of the criminal is executed in their place. Now able to act with impunity, James enters a harrowing, well-paced spiral, and much of the suspense comes from James clinging to his humanity, as charm and shame from rich friends coax him into further acts of depravity.
Mia Goth is captivating as Gabi, the ring-
leader of James’ transformation, shifting effortlessly from temptress to spoiled brat to madwoman.
Infinity Pool has Cronenberg’s trademark grotesque, neon-tinted imagery and droning electronic music, but lacks complexity.
Antiviral and Possessor feature deep characters and unfolding conspiracies, but in Infinity Pool the doubling sci-fi plot-device largely takes a back-seat to James’ debauched decline. Some horror fans will find Infinity Pool engrossing but simplistic (and the climax, with its petty, bullying tone, feels almost trite).
Among recent third movies from auteurs, Infinity Pool is not as good as Nope or Men but better than Beau Is Afraid. Tense, disturbing and well-crafted but less sophisticated than Brandon Cronenberg’s other work, Infinity Pool is playing at select Victorian cinemas. -SethLukasHynes
QHealth, known for providing good quality affordable healthcare, has recently relocated its clinic in Mount Evelyn to a new and improved facility at 31 Wray Crescent (old CBA bank).
This new location offers a more comfortable environment for everyone, with plans for further expansion in the future.
By responding to the growing need for enhanced access to healthcare, we aim to better serve the community. Moreover, the old clinic site at 7-11 Wray Crescent, Mount Evelyn, will be repurposed to expand allied health services in the local area.
At Lilydale Doctors, we are excited to announce the addition of two experienced GPs to our team.
Dr. Bindiya Sethi FRACGP specialises in women’s and children’s health, offering services such as Mirena insertions, pregnancy options, and shared antenatal care.
Dr. Sandeep Malhotra FRACGP brings his expertise in Cardiology, as well as preventative and chronic health management. We warmly welcome them as valuable assets to our practice.
Both our clinics in Lilydale and Mount Evelyn are interconnected and offer a wide range of GP services. From immunisations to women’s health (including IUD insertions and pregnancy options with shared care), travel vaccines, iron infusions, and chronic health management, we strive to meet your healthcare needs comprehensively.
Additionally, we provide specialised services such as our waist-wise weight loss program, skin cancer checks, minor surgical procedures, and cosmetic and laser treatments, including laser hair removal.
Supporting our GP team, we have practice nurse Sonia Hamilton in Mount Evelyn
Womens Health
Skin Cancer Checks
Travel
(incl Hair removal)
Cardiology
Preventive & Chronic Health
Minor Surgical Procedures
and Kirsten Truskett in Lilydale with a team of other professionals on-site, including psychologists Stefany Klein, Susan Jenkin, and Alexander Lake, physiotherapist Edward Mak, social worker Joanne Melville McGrath, and chiropractor Michael Bloom.
At QHealth - Lilydale and Mount Evelyn, we are committed to taking a proactive approach to preventative health.
By becoming a patient at our practices, you are taking a significant step forward in your health journey. Our team’s support and the expertise of our doctors will undoubtedly benefit your overall well-being. For more information about our services, visit our website at mtevelyndoctors.com.au or lilydaledoctors.com.au
By Callum Ludwig
The Eastern Woodturners are holding an exhibition throughout June in the Ray Oliver Gallery at the Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead.
The Eastern Woodturners meet at Mont De Lancey twice a month to work on various projects.
President and Life Member of Eastern Woodturners Charlie Chamberlain said the group has been around for 30 years.
“We have been based at Mont De Lancey for 14 years, we were MaroondahWoodturners before that.We have 28 members, mostly older fellows of different skill levels,” he said.
“The work on display comes from mostly the more-experienced turners, and we all have
different ideas about the way we do things.”
Woodturning is a craft where the artists use a wood lathe and hand-held tools, rotating
the wood around and allowing the wood to be shaped.
Mr Chamberlain said it was great to have their works shown off in the gallery and he hoped it would promote the club and keep membership up.
“We run classes for beginners, which are very reasonable because they’re done on a voluntary basis, so none of the people who run the classes have to get paid,” he said.
“The best thing to do is to come and have a lesson, don’t buy expensive equipment and then decide it’s not for you, that’s why we have our taster courses.”
Eastern Woodturner’s taster courses are three hours long and provide attendees with a range of equipment and materials to test out
before they decide if they’d like to become a member.
Mr Chamberlain said it was a small group with a big heart.
“It’s a very social group, and the knowledge that the older ones or the more experienced ones have got, they are only too happy to pass it on to the newer members,” he said.
“I’ve been in the group 26 or 27 of its 30 years, I started by taking up French polishing and furniture restoration then decided I needed to make some pieces so took up woodturning and haven’t looked back.”
Anyone interested in the Eastern Woodturners group can find out more at easternwoodturners.club/
Mont De Lancey’s Historic Homestead hosted a Cuppa for Cancer event on Thursday 1 June in support of the Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea initiative.
Attendees enjoyed a fantastic spread and bought up raffle tickets to support the effort and have a chance at winning a prize.
One of the event organisers Natalie Pye said this was the 21st year of the fundraising event in the Wandin community.
“It’s a great venue for it here.We did have it at the hall in Wandin for a while but here it is a bit more personal and cosy, and we are just trying to catch up and raise as much money as we can,” she said.
“Personally, my mum has had six lots of cancer and two of the other girls that help coordinate the event have lost or know someone that’s had cancer. It’s important to everyone because I think not one person hasn’t been affected by cancer.”
As of Thursday 1 June, more than $8m had been raised by 22,053 registered Biggest Moning Tea events.
Ms Pye said for those with cancer affecting someone close to them, support was very important.
“Especially if it’s, a close partner, if you’ve lost your favourite person, it’s quite
lonely, and even if you’ve got family around, it’s still lonely if you’ve lost someone that you’re with every day,” she said.
“The donations are just mind-boggling every year, we’re shocked by the generosity, it’s just lovely.”
Nola Sharp from Wandin Toastmasters was the event MC bringing along her freshly baked the scones each year, getting up in the early hours of the morning to have them ready to go.
The event followed the Craft A Cure for Cancer group’s exhibition which ran throughout May in the Ray Oliver Gallery, with items still available for purchase.
Lorraine Dunbar is from the group and said members make whatever crafts they like to, from toys and baby items to hats and scarves and sell them to raise money for the Cancer Council.
“We’re up to $92,00 overall doing this and they are wonderful to us here, having us up in the gallery for a whole month,” she said.
“My daughter died from cancer in 2000 at 35, too young and you feel like you’ve got to do something, fight back any way you can. There’s not much you can do, but all you can do is maybe help efforts like the Biggest Morning Tea where we can.”
A well known Irish dance teacher will finish up her time in the Yarra Valley after many years of teaching in the community, the school’s annual ceilí was bittersweet as the community said farewell against a backdrop of Irish jigs, reels and laughter.
Michelle Bilton held her annual ceilí dance (Irish folk dancing) in Wandin North on Saturday 3 June and also celebrated 27 years of teaching in the Yarra Valley with her Irish dancing school Bilton Academy in Mt Evelyn.
“I love a ceilí and it’s always the highlight of the year,” she said.
The ceilí dance had attendees young and old, silent auctions and a dance demonstration by some of Bilton Academy’s current students, with music by the Galway Bay Boys which kept everyone out of their chairs.
Current students and parents of Bilton made a speech on the night and presented Ms Bilton with flowers in thanks for her efforts with the school.
“We’ve loved every minute of it, we’ve loved working with Michelle and love being part of her family and we wish her all the best for what’s ahead of her,” a parent at the event said.
Students acknowledged the greater impact that Ms Bilton has had on their lives, helping foster a strong passion for Irish dancing.
“We’re excited for the new adventures that await you, you have undoubtedly made a lasting impact on the lives of countless young dancers at Mount Evenlyn and you have inspired a new generation to embrace this rich Irish tradition,” the students said.
Ms Bilton has taught classes all throughout the valley in Healesville, Toolangi, Yarra Junction, Wandin, Lilydale and Mount Evelyn.
“I started teaching in Healesville because that’s where my kids were going to school,” she said.
“Over my time in the valley, I have been lucky enough to organise and witness hundreds of my dancing students participate in a variety of dancing competitions and celebra-
tions, with some of them even going on to pursue their own dancing careers on a global scale.”
What started as a small school, with Ms Bilton and two close friends sewing dresses and costumes in her living room has evolved into hundreds of current and past students who have created not only a dancing club but Ms Bilton said it was more like a second family now.
“My students have annually danced in numerous displays, including Tesselaars Tulip Festival, the Lavender Festival, Yarra Glen Cup Races and even on the snow fields up in Mount Buller,” she said.
“We also stayed at the army base in Puckapunyal where my dancers stayed the night and met some of our military corps, they (the students) hilariously tried to straighten my hair.”
Ms Bilton said there have been so many highlights in her time teaching, including getting students to state and world championships, watching them place in nationals and worlds and dancing in the community.
“My daughter Shea Bilton-Gough went on to dance in the UK and then travelled the world as supporting and lead dancer in a number of Irish Dance productions like Celtic Illusion and Celtic Fusion,” she said.
Ms Bilton also taught well known Celtic dance magician Anthony Street who continues to tour worldwide with his show, Celtic Illusion: Reimagined.
Ms Bilton grew up in the Mt Eliza and Frankston area and learned to dance from a young age, becoming a student teacher in her early 20s.
“My mum was Irish and I learnt from Geraldine O’Shea Ryan - she’s really well known in the Irish dancing community,” she said
Ms Bilton will move further out into Yarrawonga mid year and plans to continue teaching when she has settled in and is looking forward to holding a ceilí dance there next year.
“Come up and pitch a tent, it will be great,” she said.
CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar 3 Meadowgate Drive
CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway
CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway
CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway
CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar 158 Nangathan Way
CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar 11 The Mall
KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Churinga SC, Russo Place
KILSYTH Kilsyth News & Lotto 520 - 528 Mt Dandenong Road
KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette87 Colchester Road
KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Canterbury Road Kilsyth
KILSYTH TSG Tobacco Churinga Shopping Centre Mt Dandenong Road
LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC 33-45 Hutchinson Street
LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC 51-59 Anderson Street
LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale Village Castella Street & Maroondah Highway
LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre 7 Hardy Street
LILYDALE Eastern Laundries. 2/4 Williams Street East
LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre 1 Jarlo Drive
LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station 473 Maroondah Highway
LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale 346 Main Street
LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths 31 Hutchinson Street
LILYDALE BP Service Station 87 Warburton Highway
LILYDALE Shell Service Station 469 Maroondah Highway
LILYDALE 7 - Eleven Lilydale Cnr Maroondah Highway & Cave Hill Road
LILYDALE Coles Express 469 Maroondah Highway
LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe 251 Main Street
LILYDALE Round Bird Can’t Fly 170 Main Street
LILYDALE The Lilydale General 110 Beresford Road
LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery 96 Main Street
LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe 178 Main Street
LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe 222 Main Street
LILYDALE Gracious Grace Castella Street
LILYDALE Melba Coffee House 33-45 Hutchinson Street
LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies 7/75 Cave Hill Road
LILYDALE The Mustard Tree Cafe 3/28 John Street
LILYDALE Freda’s Cafe 2 Clarke Street
LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate 164 Main Street
LILYDALE Stockdale & Leggo Real Estate 281 Main Street
LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate 111-113 Main Street
LILYDALE Grubs Up 1 Industrial Park Drive
LILYDALE Olinda Creek Hotel Maroondah Hwy
LILYDALE Crown Hotel Maroondah Hwy
LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street
MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road
MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road
MONTROSE IGA Supermarket 916 Mt Dandenong Road
MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road
MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road
MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street
MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent
MOUNT EVELYN Red Robin Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road
MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent
MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road
MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale 138 York Road
MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket 15 Brice Avenue
MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar 38 Bellara Dive
MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart 108 Hayrick Lane
MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark 103 Cardigan Road
MOOROOLBARK Coles Express 2 Cambridge Road
MOOROOLBARK Mooroolbark Coin Laundrette28 Manchester Road
MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real Estate Brice Avenue
MOOROOLBARK L J Hooker Brice Avenue
MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road
MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road
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.
No. 136 724
ACROSS
1 True (8)
5 Takes footage online (6)
10 Available over the bar (2,3)
11 Male name (9)
12 Football strike with the head (6)
13 Ways (7)
14 Uncivilised (8)
15 Art of dwarfing shrubs or trees (6)
18 Classic Nabokov novel (6)
20 Most distant (8)
21 Impulse (7)
24 Marks or courses left by moving bodies (6)
27 Social exclusion (9)
28 Articles (5)
29 Actors with small roles (6)
30 Brings to life (8)
DOWN
1 Upon (4)
2 Principal church of a diocese (9)
3 Very quick (5)
4 Rail around ship’s stern (8)
6 Comic book villain (7)
7 Egyptian capital (5)
8 Provisional (9)
9 Period (4)
14 Maryland city (9)
16 Most pungent (9)
17 Large Australian spider (8)
19 – Maslany, star of Orphan Black (7)
22 Small in French (5)
23 Go by ship (4)
25 Adage (5)
26 Egyptian goddess (4)
No capitalised
apostrophes or plural words ending in
Good
I E L A C
D F
SUDOKU affect, afflict, AFFLICTED, afield, cafe, calf, clef, cleft, cliff, daft, deaf, deft, delft, face, faced, facelift, facet, facile, fact, fade, fail, failed, fate, fated, feat, fecit, felt, fetid, fiat, fief, field, fife, file, filed, filet, flat, flea, fled, flit, leaf, left, lief, life, lift, lifted, tiff
WELCOME to this stunningly renovated home in the heart of Warburton, offering a truly remarkable living experience for its fortunate new owner. This beautiful property presents an opportunity to own a gorgeous period home with the option of two or three bedrooms, depending on your needs.
Step inside and be greeted by the elegance of this charming residence. The large bathroom boasts a luxurious spa bath and a separate shower, providing the perfect retreat for relaxation, in addition to the outdoor bath with hot and cold running water for a special outdoor experience while surrounded by serene tranquillity.
The light-filled and airy kitchen features a captivating picture window, adding a touch of visual delight to your culinary endeavours. Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of the 1900’s vintage home, complete with timber panelling, high ceilings, and sash windows that exude a sense of nostalgia and romantic charm.
Indulge in the breathtaking natural surroundings as you venture outside. A stroll up the hill, rewards you with an aweinspiring eagle-eye vista of the majestic mountains, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Situated on an approximately half-acre allotment, and in a prime location in the heart of town, you’ll have easy access to the village shops and the renowned Warburton Trail and Yarra River, inviting you to embark on leisurely weekend adventures. Imagine starting your day with a delightful bike ride, followed by
a delectable gourmet breakfast in town, and then in the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll to the nearby river and indulge in a refreshing dip in the warmer months – a
perfect way to unwind and embrace the idyllic lifestyle Warburton has to offer.
Don’t miss out on this delightful opportunity to make this exquisitely
renovated property your own. Contact us today to arrange a viewing and experience the sheer elegance and charm that awaits you in this magnificent Warburton home. ●
THIS unique opportunity is available for those seeking a lifestyle or hobby farm with 40 acres of improved pasture suitable for all forms of livestock, a flowing creek (suitable for stock and domestic use and perfect for a family picnic), and two dwellings that are move in ready and both have amazing views.
The main farm house consists of three bedrooms and two updated bathrooms. The Master bedroom has a walk in wardrobe and a stylish ensuite with shower, toilet and vanity. The kitchen & dining area are open plan with a wood fire and split sytem for comfort and convenience, Meile oven and dishwasher, an induction cooktop and modern rangehood to enjoy. From here wander through to the loungeroom and soak in the views by the open fire place or enjoy the split system air conditioning in the warmer months or maybe step out onto your rear deck to entertain, as it is the views from all windows across your rolling paddocks to the state forest that you will fall in love with. There are two further bedrooms at the other end of the home which share the family bathroom that is flooded with natural light and has a walk in shower, free standing bath, toilet and vanity.
There is a permanent creek through the centre of the property, on the home side of the creek are two large 5 acre paddocks both with horse sheds, and 4 x 1 acre paddocks fenced with Gallager ‘Equifence’ and ‘Bayco’ with horses in mind, whilst the remaining fencing is more intended for other livestock such as cattle, and the far side of the creek is fenced into two large paddocks with barb wire.
The second dwelling is approx. 5 years old and contains three bedrooms, and one bathroom. With a gorgeous open plan kitchen/living/dining, this home bright and comfortable with a split system air conditioner and wood fire in the lounge room. The three bedrooms are generously sized and all have built in wardrobes, whilst there is a separate toilet and a family bathroom. Externally is extensive shedding, with a double lock up garage with high ceilings, concrete floor and power, two further work shops, two lean-tos, and a wood shed. This home enjoys stunning and private views and is accessible separately from the main dwelling via an asphalt driveway. The area around the home is fully fenced for your pets and there are also two day yards in the paddock close to the home.
This property has it all so don’t miss out. Call to arrange a private inspection today. ●
Beautifullymaintained3bedroomhomewithhomeoffice!
Thishomeisonapprox.¼ofanacre&ismomentsfromEmeraldamenities.Withawelcoming frontverandah,stepthroughtheFrenchdoorstoenjoyhighceilings,&invitingpolishedhardwood flooringintheloungeroom&slate flooringinthekitchen/diningarea.Themasterbedroomhas anensuite,BIRs,asplitsystemrecycledAC&aceilingfan.Thefurther2bedroomsalsoofferBIRs. Theopenplankitchen/dining/livingareaenjoysawood fire&splitsystemAC.ThekitchenhasSS appliances,gascooktop&oven.Thereisafullyfencedbackyard&doublegateaccesstoasingle carcarport.Theoutdoorcovered&pavedentertainingarea,leadstothehomeoffice,complete withglassbifolddoors.Thereisalsoawoodstoragearea,poweredworkshop,hothouse,garden shed,&awatertankforthegarden.Thishomeisservicedbymainswater&electricity.
6AzaleaCrescent,Emerald$895,000-$950,000
EnjoyPrivacy,ViewsandDirectAccesstoWrightsForest!
Thisfantastic4/5bedroomfamilyhomesituatedonapprox.¾ofanacre,enjoysuninterruptedviews intotheWrightsForest.Abitumendrivewayleadstothehome,whereyoucanrelax&unwindon thefrontverandah,beforeenteringthesingle-storeyhome.Themasterbedroomislocatedatone endofthehomewithaBIR&ensuite.Thenthelivingisopenplaninthecentreofthehomewith kitchen,diningroom&twolivingareas.Thekitchenoffersstainlesssteeldishwasher,gasstovetop& electricoven,rangehood&asplitsystemairconditionerinthediningarea.Attheotherendofthe lovelyhomeareafurther3bedroomsallwithBIRs,alaundry,familybathroom,&aseparatetoilet.
Externally,thereisareardeck&ahomeoffice/hobbyroom.Thereisalsoagreatdoubleshedwith concrete floorandpower,plusworkshoparea.
5JackaRoad,Avonsleigh$750,000-$820,000
Beautifullypresented4bedroomhomewithlandscapedgarden!
Thisfunctional&beautifullypresented4bedroom,2bathroomhomeisspreadacrosssplitlevelliving, &hasagraveleddrivewaywith2carcarport.Themasterbedroomoffersanensuite,ceilingfan,split systemairconditioner,andWIR.Theloungeroomopensupontoafrontverandah,andontheupper levelenjoytheopenplankitchen/diningarea.Thekitcheniscompletewithadishwasher&electric oven/stovetop.Thereisafamilybathroomontheupperlevelwiththe3goodsizedbedrooms,&a lovelysittingarea.Thereisawood fireintheloungeroom,ductedheating,&afurthersplitsystemin theuppersittingarea.Externallythelandscapedbackyardisreadyforentertainingwithacovered deck&issecurelyfenced.Thishomeisbrilliantlylocatedwitha15minutewalktoEmeraldLakePark &amenities,&onlya10minutestrolltoAvonsleighGeneralStore.
680WooriYallockRoad,Nangana$1,700,000-$1,850,000
RareOpportunitytoSecure40AcresofPrimeGrazingLandwith2Dwellings!
TheFarmHouse:
-3Bedrooms,2Bathrooms,2Living&stunningviews
-Largepoweredhayshedwithdoublelockupgarage,poweredtackroom,olddairywithpower& 2stables,2dayyards,5watertanks,&ridingarena.
TheSecondresidence:
-3Bedrooms,1Bathroom,gorgeousviews
-2dayyards,doublegaragewithpower&concrete floor,2xworkshops&woodshed
-AmazingViews,PermanentCreek,Multipledrivewayaccess!
‘Wilky Park’. North facing, quiet and private. Stunning views on 8.55 hectares.
The Residence:
The stylish double brick residence offers:
· 4 bedrooms, the main with full ensuite and walk-in robe
· Several living spaces, light, open and airy, overlooking courtyard and pool
· There is an option for an elderly parents’ suite with separate access, or a home office.
· Central kitchen, granite benchtops, induction cook top, dishwasher, wall oven, servery to dining room and walk in pantry
· Bathroom with bath
Infrastructure:
· Paved entertaining area
· Inground solar heated pool
· Tennis court
· Chook shed
· Veggie patch
· Cat run
· Dam, tank and bore water
· 19 paddocks – agistment (potential income)
· Oversized floodlit arena 30 x 80m
· New shed 8 x 18m, concrete slab/power/ water
· Tack/wash bay area
· Day sheds
· Set up for eventing horses - excellent, secure turning area for floats
· Agisters have separate access with dual access to the property (sealed off Kennedy Road)
· Additional shedding
A property that will impress on inspection, take your time, take it all in. It really is a special place, that is set up with the best facilities, especially for equine pursuits.
Please note: this property has dual access, your GPS may take you to 110 Kennedy Road, Macclesfield instead. ●
GREATLOCATION,WALKTOTOWN
Thisbricktwo-storeypropertyona1200sqmmostly flatblockhasalottoofferand includes3bedrooms-themainwithretreatand ensuite,astudy/diningroom,2 bathrooms-oneisrenovated withasoakingtub,shower&vanity,theloungewith open fireplace,spaciouskitchenand Eurolaundry,ahuge deckoverlookingthefenced rearyard,twocargarageand carport.Nothroughroad,greatlocationwithinwalking distancetoMonbulk,schools,cafesand agood varietyofshopsand businesses.
MickDolphin 0429684522
TayTing 0417302112
MINUTESTOBELGRAVE!
Thischarmingresidenceretainsmanyofitsperiodfeatures &somenewcreature comforts.Offeringhigh(ornate&strapped)ceilings,chandeliers,hardwood floors& doors,OFPwithcastironburner,woodpanelling,Frenchdoors,customdrapery,Juliette balconyfrommaster,study/gamingnookin2ndbedroom,claw footbath,2living spaces,lounge/diningwith fireplace,sealedreturndriveway,secondaccessforcaravan/ boat,cubbyhouse,veggiepatch,under-housecaraccess,workshop&storage.
MickDolphin 0429684522
JanBrewster 0409558805
CHARACTERHOMEINATRANQUILASPECT
Lookingforaprojectinaprimelocationwithaveryaffordablepricerange?This 2-bedroomhomeonan872sqmblockwithstunningviewshaslovelycharacterfeatures throughout,atranquilaspect,beautifultieredgardens&walkingdistancetoBelgrave Central,schoolsandpublictransport.Thehomecurrentlyhasabuildingorderplacedon itwhichwouldneedtoberectifiedbythenewowner,whichincludesstructuralworksto thesubfloorarea,thiswillrequireabuildingpermitforthecompletion.
JanBrewster 0409558805
UNIQUECHARACTERCOTTAGE
SituatedinabeautifulpartofSelby,prettyandpeaceful,lookoutoveryourreardecking andseevisitingKookaburrasandRosellasinthetrees.This homefeaturesBIR’s,astudy, 3separatelivingspaces,onedownstairswhichcouldbeafabulouswork-from-home spaceorteenageretreatwithseparateaccess,alargelaundry(withalaundryshoot) andabathroom.Thecentralkitchenboastsstainlesssteelappliances.youhaveoff-street parking,agardenshed,½anacreofestablishedgardens,fruittreesandlawns.
0429684522
JanBrewster 0409558805
This property presents a one-of-a-kind chance to own a successful Airbnb or your own idyllic country retreat.
Tucked away on a peaceful tree-lined street outside of Warburton, this charming home radiates tranquility and offers a refreshing breath of fresh country air.
Boasting two bedrooms with enchanting windows and abundant natural light, the home’s delightful bathroom features timber paneling and a large claw foot bathtub overlooking the private gardens.
Throughout the weatherboard house, you’ll find a wealth of character, from the floorboards to the high ceilings to the threequarter wraparound verandah that adds a rustic touch. The spacious open-plan living area is perfect for entertaining, with large doors opening onto the decking, a cozy lounge warmed by a crackling fireplace, and the convenience of split systems.
The kitchen features a large breakfast bench, dishwasher, electric cooking, and sliding doors that lead to an extended undercover living space for the whole family to enjoy.
The backyard boasts over 1200 square meters of cottage gardens, easy access and parking, a carport, garage, and a neighboring pipeline that adds extra privacy and space.
Whether you’re looking for a perfect weekend getaway, a B&B investment, or a place to call home, this property is a mustsee. ●
Serenecountrylivingonjustunder3acres
Thecharmofthishomesteadstylebrickhomeon11584squaremetres,completewithashady bullnoseverandaissettowarmyourheart.Withsoaringceilingsthroughout,boastingtwospacious livingareaswithfourgenerouslysizedbedroomswithbuilt-inrobes.Thesprawlingmasterbedroom iscompletewithawalk-inrobeandfullensuite,offeringatouchofluxuryandprivacy.Thelight filledkitchenoffersanabundanceofcupboardandbenchspace.Theseparatelivingareasmake forconvenientfamilylivingandoffersareversecycleairconditionerandtwoslowcombustion woodheatersensuringyear-roundcomfort.Outside,astunninglocationwithwildlifeinabundance, backingontotheWooriYallockcreeknaturereserve.Otherfeaturesonthispropertyarelock-up shed,doublecarport,hayshed/stable,fruittrees,andplentyofspaceforthehorsesandkidstoplay.
Thisbeautifulpropertypresentsanopportunitytoownagorgeousperiodhomewiththeoptionof twoorthreebedrooms.Thelargebathroomboastsaluxuriousspabathandaseparateshower, providingtheperfectretreatforrelaxationinadditiontotheoutdoorbathwithhotrunningwaterfor aspecialoutdoorexperience.Thelight-filledkitchenfeaturesacaptivatingpicturewindow,adding atouchofvisualdelight.Completewithtimberpanelling,highceilings,andsashwindowsthatexude asenseofnostalgia.Indulgeinthebreathtakingnaturalsurroundingsasyouventureoutside.Withan awe-inspiringeagle-eyevistaofthemountains,allowingyoutofullyimmerseyourselfinthebeauty ofnature.Situatedonanapproximatelyhalf-acreallotment,andinaprimelocationintheheartof Warburton,don’tmissoutonthisopportunitytomakethisdelightfulpropertyyourown.
SurreyRoadaddresswithbrickhomeonover1000sqm!
Thisbrickhomeissetonover1100sqmofgorgeousrollinggreenland,mountainviewseithersideand theiconicWarburtongolfcourseonlyahopskipandjumpaway!Featuring3greatsizebedroomsallwithrobes.1bathroomwithadjoiningtoilet-easyaccesstobathroom/toilet/laundry-whichalso actsasamudroom.Thebackyardwithmountainviews-itliterallyfeelslikeyoucanreachoutand touchthem-it’sstunning!Veggiegardens,sittingarea,gazeboreallycompletesthebackyard.The backyardisfullyfencedandenclosedtokeepanimalsandchildrenandsafe,doublegatesinfront ofthe1cargaragegiveyouaccesstotheyard.Extrasincludebackundercoverareathatisvery privateforentertaining,ceilingfansthatretractthroughout,splitsystemsx2,gasductedheating andplentyofstorageinthekitchenandextracupboards.
18SurreyRoad,Warburton$690,000-$755,000 LeahBannerman
225BigPatsCreekRd,BigPatsCreek$900,000-$990,000
WelcometoParadise
Seton1&1/2acresinthemostpicturesquesettingisthisbeautifullyrenovatedhome.Surrounded bytreesandwithaspringfedpermanentcreekrunningthrough.Therecentrenovationmeans everythinginthehomeisbrandnewandneverused.Thisincludesnewcarpetsinthefourlarge bedroomsandallnew fixturesinthetwowellequippedbathrooms.There’stwolargelivingareas, oneoneachlevel,bothwithbeautifulnewhardwood flooring.Thebrandnewkitcheniswell appointedwithstainlesssteelappliancesincludinglarge5burnerstove,rangehoodanddishwasher. Filteredmountainviewscanbeenjoyedfromthefulllengthdeckupstairswithaccessfromthe masterbedroomandlivingarea.Extrasincludeairconditioninginbothlivingareas,slowcombustion woodheater.Trulyaspecialpropertyidealasapermanentfamilyhomeorforweekendenjoyment.
A PICTURE of perfection awaits at ‘Greenwood’, a much loved, Federation Harkaway home, built and engineered to an outstanding level of detail and offering a traditional, period style home that boasts elegance on every level.
Spacious and solid, there has been no compromise on quality, offering 4 bedrooms, home office (or 5th bedroom), dual bathrooms and a versatile floorplan to meet any family’s requirements. Large living zones extend over two levels, giving you a comfortable lounge room with ornate gas log fire, a sun filled dining room, spacious TV / meals area and an oversized rumpus/studio with separate access that also boasts an entertaining area and bedroom.
Ideal for in-law accommodation or work from home options, this extensive floorplan has been superbly executed to allow for a variety of uses. Allowing plenty of bench space to cook and prepare, the Blackwood kitchen is highlighted by a Smeg oven, walk in pantry and an abundance of storage and has been positioned perfectly with direct
access out onto the expansive decking where entertaining can be done with style and sophistication.
With 10ft ceilings, gleaming spotted gum floorboards and timber sash windows, you will discover many ‘olde world’ features throughout. Bay windows with leadlight features are beautiful examples of the intimate design whilst hydronic heating, multiple split systems, ceiling fans and an abundance of storage options make this home a practical choice.
Outside, the tiered 1923m2 block has been meticulously maintained boasting a well fenced rear yard, sealed circular driveway and extended parking options that include both a double garage with loft storage space and also a wide double carport.
Only minutes from Wellington Road, Burwood Hwy and surrounded by great schools and a close, caring community, ‘Greenwood’ has quality, size and timeless appeal. ●
4 A 1 B 2 C
Thismagnificent10-acrepropertyculminatingatscenicWooriYallockCreekisa breathtakingportionoftheDandenongRangesnottobemissed.Punctuatedbyaquality craftedmudbrickandweatherboardresidence,thisisacountry-feelpropertyimmersedin exquisitelocalfloraandfauna.
BradConder
M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au
DanielSteen
M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au
78-78AHumeStreet,UPWEY $1,650,000-$1,790,000 TWOTITLESANDTHREEDWELLINGSINPRIMEPOSITION 8 A 4 B 3 C
Thisuniquepropertyoffersanoutstandingopportunityforinvestorsandbuyerssearching formulti-generationalspace.Boastingasprawling8,586sqm(approx.)allotmentwith2tiles, 3dwellings,andpotentialtosubdivide(STCA),thisisaone-offchancetosecureamultiresidencepropertyofimpressiveproportions.
ContactBradforaninspectiontoday!
BradConder
M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au
DanielSteen M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au
26AMonbulkRoad,BELGRAVE
$500,000to$550,000
CHARMINGCOTTAGEINCOVETEDLIFESTYLELOCATION
2 A 1 B
Withaperfectpositiononly500mfromBelgravetownshipandapicturesque945sqm (approx.)allotmentwithelevatedoutlooks,thispropertyaffordsownersatree-change lifestyleinatop-tierlocale.BurstingwithcharacternearBelgraveStation,PuffingBilly Railway,andthebustlinglocalshopping,caféandentertainmentprecinct,youcanpark thecarandeasilyenjoyallthishighlycovetedneighbourhoodhasonoffer.
SuzieBrannelly
M 0490506910| E suzie@chandlerandco.com.au
27TheCrescent,SASSAFRAS $1,450,000-$1,590,000 HISTORICHILLSHOMEINEXCLUSIVELIFESTYLEPOCKET 5 A 2 B 3 C
Steepedinhistoryandsurroundedbylushgardens,“Kalamunda”remainsasmagnificentas ever.Constructedin1924andcarefullyupdatedformodernliving,thishomeencapsulates elegantHillsliving.Thisluxuriousresidenceevokesasophisticatedandserenefeelduein parttoitsenclosedverandahwithrichJarrahflooring.Atonewithitssurrounds,gorgeous gardenandvalleyviewsframethishomesoyouwillfeeltuckedawayfrombusylifethe momentyouarrivehome.
GlennChandler
M 0418410689| E glenn@chandlerandco.com.au
SuzieBrannelly
M 0490506910| E suzie@chandlerandco.com.au
A cold Thursday night at Montroses’s Keith Hume Fraser Reserve saw Barkerettes (second) face bottom side Lilydale Montrose United in round seven of Women’s State 3S.
Barkerettes would go top if they won, pending Gippsland’s result.
Amy D’Ortnzio was making a record 214th appearance, and Chelsea Quil was debuting.
The hosts did us a quick favour.
Just 95 seconds in, Lisa Walsh hit a corner from the left, and a defender executed a perfect header into the far corner of her own net to make it 1-0 Barkers.
The pitch was much like Endeavour’s (that is, a tad muddy).
Quill must have ruffled some feathers in the home side because at some point she received an elbow for her troubles – not a bad start for her debut, and yet another graduate from Liam Ryan’s under 17 squad.
It was mostly one way traffic in Barkers’ favour, and D’Ortenzio came close on 33 minutes when she shot over.
Three minutes later, newly-discovered scoring sensation Kelly Butera hit a shot on target which the keeper failed to hold and it was 2-0.
Five minutes into the second half, Alizah Jones had the ball in the United penalty area and was tripped – penalty!
Walsh stepped up smashed the ball over Melanie Kloster to make it 3-0.
Just on the hour, Barkers put together a beautiful passing move involving half the side and found D’Ortenzio in a position to shoot.
You know the rest, nice finish, 4-0, move on.
With 12 minutes remaining, Butera smacked a lovely shot into the bottom corner of the net and it was 5-0.
Top of the league once more.
Over to you Gippsland.
Next for Barkerettes is a home game against Chisholm United on Friday night.
Barkers lose at home to Berwick
A dull Saturday at the Kennel seemed to keep the crowds away as Barkers (second) hosted Berwick (10th) in round 11 of State 2 SE.
Recent results suggested that this would be straightforward, but this is a very tight league and teams have been dropped points in the most unexpected of games.
Brett Tronconi was equalling the club appearance record of 258, and Sean Perrin was playing his 150th.
Barkers attacked from the off but couldn’t break through.
Then on seven minutes, Berwick stunned the hosts.
A long ball over the top was missed by a defender and ran to Angelo Rovegno Agama, who was left with the simple task of slotting the ball past Mark Naumowicz for 1-0 Berwick.
Two minutes later a Berwick shot was parried away by Naumowicz at full stretch.
Then on 15 minutes Berwick broke through the Barkers defence again, shooting from an
acute angle, but Naumowicz got a hand to it and the ball was cleared.
A minute later, Berwick had a throw-in on the right and worked the ball in to Joshua Scarlett on the edge of the box.
He rifled the ball home giving Naumowicz no chance and all of a sudden Barkers found themselves 0-2 down.
Only now did Barkers respond.
On 23 minutes a Liam Seaye corner on the left came out to Paul McEvoy.
He turned and found Marcus Watson who hit a ball in from the right which the keeper collected. Then a quick ball in from the left saw Watson volley wide.
On 33 minutes, John-Paul Cooper found Maxim Solovyev on the left. He crossed for Watson, who skewed his shot wide.
Ten minutes before the break, McEvoy crossed from the left towards Watson.
With the keeper advancing,Watson cleverly headed over him to find the net and halve the deficit to 2-1.
Half-time: Mooroolbark 1-2 Berwick City.
The second half began brightly for Barkers, and the pivotal moments came early on.
A free-kick played into the Berwick box saw Solovyev have a golden chance to equalise, but his volley went over.
On the hour the game was effectively lost and won.
Cooper fed Watson, whose deft touch left Solovyev in on goal, but he shot over from close range. Berwick broke upfield and had a shot saved, but Matthew Morgan followed up to make it 3-1 – Barkers had a big hill to climb now.
The introduction of Jack Buglass made a difference.
On 77 minutes he took on the Berwick defence and burst through, squaring for Solovyev, who found Watson, who stuck the ball home for his 13th of the season and 2-3.
The luckless Solovyev had a shot deflected wide, and McEvoy hit the bar, but it was to be Berwick’s day and they held on for the win.
Hugely disappointing from Barkers, but this league is very tight and at halfway we are only 4 points off the pace.
The reserves went ahead for the third week in a row, but each time they have lost 2-3.
Goals from Van Thawng and Jack Buglass.
In other games, Men’s over 35s lost 2-6 at Langwarrin Frogs, and in junior boys, the under 14s won 5-1 at home to Knox City.
In Female FootballWeek, all the junior girls’ sides emulated the senior women by winning –under 17/18 4-1 v Ashburton United, under 15 2-1 v Glen Eira, and under 12 12-1 v Monbulk Rangers.
Next week, the women are at home to Chisholm United (Esther Park, Friday 7.30pm) and the men visit Hampton East Brighton (Dendy Park, Brighton East, Saturday 1pm/3pm).
See you down the Kennel!
If you are a young local who is passionate about swimming and water safety, why not ask a local pool to apply for you to help teach the next generation of pool paddlers to become skilled swimmers?
Applications are open to financial assistance to young people aged 17 to 25 years to undertake accreditation to ensure they are qualified to teach swimming and water safety.
Organisations can apply on behalf of aspiring teachers to receive financial support in one of three categories:
· Category 1: Up to $325 per person towards SISSS00112 - Swimming and Water Safety Teacher.
· Category 2: Up to $285 per person towards SISCAQU011 - Promote the development of infants and toddlers in an aquatic environment.
· Category 3: Up to $195 per person for renewal of Swimming and Water Safety Teacher.
Applicant organisations can apply for multiple candidates in each application. For example, if applying for 10 candidates to undertake swimming and water safety teacher training, then they can apply for up to $3250. Eligible applicants must apply to training that is delivered by any of the following Registered Training Organisations:
· Life Saving Victoria.
· Swim Coaches and Teachers Australia.
· AUSTSWIM.
· Chisholm Institute.
· Southern Education.
Other Registered Training Organisations will be considered on the basis they meet National Recognised Training standards and have the appropriate level of insurance against child abuse. They will be required to undergo verification by the Department be-
Financial support is available to train new swim teachers.
fore applications will be considered. Applications can be made at any time until 5pm 31 May 2024 with assessments and notifications provided to applicants within
four weeks of submission. The Kilsyth Centenary Pool and the Yarra Centre in Yarra Junction have already been successful category 2 recipients.
For more information or to apply, go to sport.vic.gov.au/grants-and-funding/ourgrants/youth-aquatic-accreditation-program
Yarra Ranges Athletics athletes enjoyed a fun filled morning of cross country running at Elizabeth Bridge in Kilsyth on Saturday.
The course was best described as muddy, making for some fun running, albeit slippery and wet.
It was another fantastic turnout with plenty of younger athletes running as we welcomed athletes from Cockatoo Little Athletics club.
We encourage all our mums, dads and family members to also join in the fun.
The muddy course made PBs tough with only handful of choccy frogs given out this week. Hopefully better conditions at Morrison Reserve this coming Saturday will enable more PBs.
Results:
· 500m
Nikesh Arunachalam 2.36, Emily Moore 3.13
· 1000m
Riley Yorke 4.09, Taylah Munroe 4.21, Luca Rossthorn 4.47, Spencer Norman 4.48, Imogen McMillan 4.53, Tillie Sommers 5.05, Lola Farmilo 5.11, Cody Buckland 5.18, Byron Stark
6.23, Elizabeth Clarke 6.56
· 1500m
Ollie Dean 5.39, Archie Budin 5.45, lijah Aillo
6.37, Milly Hall 6.42, Lilah Fear 6.51, Dominic Nealon 6.57, Xander Sommers 7.07, Mackenzie Maw 7.08, Flynn Stark 7.09, Caitlyn McKerlie 7.11, Lachlan Appleby 7.13, Aislin Reid 7.14, Hayley Nealon 7.15, Isla Haisma 7.17, Hugh Richardson 7.34, Indi Budin 7.39, William Graham 7.49, Kyla Lewis 7.58, Patrick Appleby
8.37, Elena Frost 8.41, Trinity Graham 8.54, Charlotte Matthews 9.00, Jake Buckland 9.01, Micah Friend 9.34
· 2000m
Ilikimi Tove 8.19, Brienna Coffey 8.37, Pippa Congreve 8.38, Adele Ellis 8.41, Aleila Brand-
Starkey 8.44, Ryder Crockett 8.47, Holly Yorke 8.53, Jay Burke 8.55, Lily Clarke 8.58, Jack Dean 9.14, Janna Rodriguez 9.15, Mackenzie Graham 9.15, Leah Gobetti 9.33, Oliver Fear 9.34, Lexi Aders 10.01, Emily Pincott 11.07, Shazia Geisler 11.47, Bradley McMeeken 12.11, Max Thomson 14.56, Blake Vine 17.55
· 3000m
Ryder Holland 11.10, Brigett Rice 11.43, Cameron Yorke 11.57, Hamish McKerlie 12.03, Finn Rossthorn 12.14, Ryder Meads 12.53, Zac McMillan 13.03, Jasmine Cochrane 13.29, Elsie Mitchell 14.20, Bailey Van Bert 14.25, Elisabeth Coffey 14.33, Brookley Horsburgh 14.54, Mike Willey 14.59, Brian Acherly 14.59, Lily Cochrane 15.21, Haper Meads 15.22, Tori Kincaid 15.29, Rory Stafford 16.23, Bethany Vine 16.40, Zoe Clarke 16.42, Kahlia Da Costa 16.52, Alice Mattille 16.52, Renee Horsley 17.11, Katie Clarke 17.28, Ariole Meads 17.52
Next Saturday (10 June) we return to Morrison Reserve with the hope for good conditions, plenty of excited athletes and supporters and a heap of course PBs earning choccy frogs.
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 preparing for cross country.
Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability.
If you, or someone you know, want to join in the fun of cross country email info@yarrarangesathletics.org.au for information about events and registration.
For information on training, how to join or trial, photos, results and updated news, visit the website at yarrarangesathletics.org.au or check us out on Facebook.
Run, Jump, Throw…too easy!
Rapid Ascent’s Trail Running Series will return to Silvan in 2023, with the event beginning on Sunday 4 June at Yellow Gum Park in Plenty Gorge.
Runners will be treated to a rewarding run in a beautiful natural setting with each course offering spectacular views from the top of the valley. The Medium and Long course will also cross the Plenty River in ankle-deep water, adding to the adventure component of the race… after all #BitumenIsBoring.
Participants can choose from three course options, including the long course spanning an impressive 24km, the medium course covering 13km, or the 7km short course. Entries are still open online until race morning.
Organisers are excited to kick-off the 2023 Series, now featuring a condensed three-race format and promising new and exhilarating experiences for trail running enthusiasts.
“We’ve created a Series that runners can resonate with – getting people off-road and into natural settings with all abilities catered for,” Rapid Ascent general manager Sam Maffett said.
“By providing a welcoming environment, food, coffee and family activities; and showcasing little-known trails – we’ve pulled together all the good bits that make trail running so good!”
Boasting longer long course options and a new handicap format at Silvan, the continued popularity of trail running is proven by the Series’ entering its 13th year.
Runners are encouraged to enter one race or seize the ultimate challenge by participating in all three races as a Series Gold Runner who receive exclusive perks, including a sports bag, discounts, and much more.
The Trail Running Series stands out with its breathtaking wilderness locations, providing participants with an unforgettable adventure – all within a one hour drive of Melbourne.
The race schedule includes the following
scenic locations: Plenty Gorge this Sunday 4 June, Anglesea on 9 July, and Silvan on 6 August, where the new handicap format will be introduced.
Competitors will run on little-known trails, down fun single tracks that pass
through scenic landscapes of towering gum trees, trickling creeks, fern-lined valleys and native wildlife.
For more information about the event and how to secure your entry, visit the official website at trailrunningseries.com.au
Wandin headed to the home of Upwey-Tecoma for their round seven clash in the AFL Outer East Premier Division.
The third-placed Tigers were looking to claim a scalp and continue their finals surge, with the Doggies keen to retain their spot and an unbeaten run that has them in first.
It was tight in the first quarter, with only a goal separating the two sides in Wandin’s favour, 3.1,19 to 4.1, 25.
The second quarter was where the competition’s ruthless ladder leaders set themselves up for the win, stretching out to a halftime lead of 31 points.
The Doggies’ dominance continued in the third quarter as they piled on 6.4 to the Tigers 1.5 and the game slowed down in the final quarter, Upwey-Tecoma kicking four straight to Wandin’s 1.5 to bring it back to a 47-point final margin, 10.9, 69 to 17.14, 116.
Young Pup Connor Smith was the standout player, showing his speed and skill with six goals in the forward line covering for the injured Aaron Mullet and Jordan Jaworski while Wandin’s midfield controlled the contest from the outset.
Smith, Todd Garner, John Ladner, Cody Hirst, Patty Bruzzese, Patrick Hodgett and Andres Baker were the top Dogs for the day.
Joining Smith on the scoreboard were Clinton Johnson with three goals, Harrison Van Duuren and Baker with 2 and P Hodgett, Ladner, Hirst and Brodie Atkins all kicking a solitary goal.
Last weekend saw the annual Upper Yarra Pony Club (UYPC) Dressage Jackpot run for the first time over Saturday and Sunday. This allowed UYPC some more entries, enabled more tests to be ridden on the sand and the ability to keep on top of things more easily. UYPC will continue as the two-day format which was definitely deemed a successful trial. Jackpot results were:
· PC G2 – Ella Tosh on Carronade, Yarra Glen PC.
· PC G3 – Sarah Laukart on HSV Charisma, Upper Beacconsfield PC.
· PC G4 – Audrey Murphy on Emerald, Cockatoo and District PC.
· PCG5–LillyKittoonFindingNemo,SevillePC.
· PC G6 – Harper Falls on Mikani Midnight Gambler, Ringwood PC.
· OPEN ADV – SkyeWright on Kamber Pryderi.
· OPEN G1 – Fern Wright on Kamber Merfyn.
· OPEN G2 – Dianne Wilkinson on Riverbend Wahine Te Nui.
· OPEN G3 – Jaimee Simpson on Darwin Park Spyderman.
· OPEN G4 – Kerrie Bellett on Silkwood Eclipse.
· OPEN G5 – Louisa Smith on Harkaway Lodge Genna.
· OPEN G6 – Monroe Bellett on Oakey. Thanks to all competitors, judges and volunteers who make the events enjoyable and fun to organise and run.
By Tanya Steele
Parkrun was a smash hit for the Yarra Valley community for its first event at Maroondah Dam on Saturday 27 May.
147 participants attended the well known 5km event at its new destination, Andrew Leggo completed the run in 17.88 and Sarah Klein came in at 18.34.
Stuart Rainbow, Event Director said it was amazing and feedback from the public was that the location was awesome.
“It was really, really good and well received,” he said.
People of all ages and abilities came to run or walk the event and Mr Rainbow was pleased to see a strong contingent of walkers attending.
“You don’t need to run, we had retirees, and kids and there were lots of walkers which was really great to see,” he said.
The Parkrun also brought a lot of extra business to the town on the weekend, with some tourists coming up purely to do the run.
“We had someone from Phillip Island and someone from Shepparton, it’s a long way to come for a 5km,” said Mr Rainbow.
The weather was not quite on its best behaviour, with a light drizzle starting during the event.
“We thought we were going to get away from it, but it turned, which it tends to do in the Yarra Valley,” Mr Rainbow said.
Mr Rainbow said after the run, people headed to the township to enjoy what Healesville has to offer.
“They earned a chance to go have something nice to eat,” he said.
The Watts River Brewing opened its doors early and threw a discount on for the Parkrun attendees and My Little Kitchen got so busy afterwards that the cafe had to turn some people away.
Mr Rainbow said he was glad it went so well and thanked the volunteers who helped the day run smoothly.
“What an incredible spot to have your morning exercise, it’s really exciting for the town,” he said.
Mr Rainbow said he hopes Parkrun continues to be a positive influence for Healesville.
“People have said they will be back for sure,” he said.
People who attended can check their results at: www.parkrun.com.au/maroondahdam/results/latestresults/
