Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 13th June 2023

Onwards through music

The Dandenong Ranges Music Council is extending an open invitation to creatives throughout the hills and beyond to have a say in its future direction. On Sunday 25 June 2pm, a Question and Answer session with a panel made up of music experts will be held at 1451 Burwood Highway, in an effort to “share ideas, connect and engage in informal discussions about the future of music and possibilities to collaborate, create and promote musical projects.”

Turn to page 16 for more

The Dandenong Ranges Music Council New Horizons band practising at the Tecoma Uniting Church.

Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE

Storm is recalled

On the evening of Wednesday 9 June 2021, damaging winds swept through the Dandenong Ranges.

Emerald SES Unit Controller Ben Owen remembers the weather conditions being“worse than ever”.

“You probably really didn’t get a grasp of what was going on around you because it was dark and black and you saw the headlights in the vehicle where you were driving, but you didn’t see the whole pitch until daybreak,” Mr Owen said.

“But you could certainly hear in the dark-

ness of the night with the wind howling, that the branch is breaking and the trees falling either close or in a distance... not knowing your fate.”

At least 25,000 trees fall and 200 properties damaged; 81 of which were left uninhabitable.

The fallen trees blocked roads and bought down telephone and power lines, leaving thousands without heating and phone or internet connection for weeks.

In the 24 months since the event, insurance has proven a difficult hurdle for residents, with some landowners receiving planning permits,

but none having yet rebuilt their homes.

The Kallista Village Township Group is set to hold a community event for locals to reflect on the June 2021 storm two years after the event ravaged the area.

‘Rainbow after the Storm’ will bring together people from Kallista, The Patch and Sherbrooke on Friday 16 June to share stories and plan ahead for future emergencies.

Kallista Village Inc secretary and local GP Dr Miki Schwartzbord said recovery in the area mostly come down to “neighbourly acts of kindness”.

“There were definitely parents from the schools running around, making meals, dropping off stove-top meals,” Dr Schwartzbord said.

A newly-formed branch of the Kallista Village Township Group, Kallista Emergency Group (KEG), will introduce a potential model for our community to respond to future emergencies and also invite participation in its development.

Read more coverage on the second anniversary of the June 2021 storm on pages 10, 11

Petition demands kinders

By Parker McKenzie

The Australian Education Union has asked Knox City Council to continue offering kindergarten services after the council announced a review of its 29 sessional services throughout the local government area in 2022.

Knox City Council released a statement on Wednesday 7 June stating that the council will meet on Monday 19 June to “decide on a preferred option for its future role in kindergarten services.”

“There are some big changes coming for kindergarten as part of the state government’s decision to increase hours, make kindergarten free and offer a second year of kindergarten before school,” the council said.

“In light of this, Council has been reviewing its kindergarten services. This is the responsible thing to do when there are such big changes ahead that could have impacts for our services and our community.”

The statement said no decision had been made yet and any changes will be effective from January 2025.

AEU Victoria launched a petition on Friday 2 June, asking the council to continue running its kindergartens.

“If Knox Council abandons kindergarten programs, it would mean that the families of 3 and 4-year-old children in the Knox area would no longer be able to access Knox Council-delivered free kindergarten programs,” the petition said.

“Currently the Council delivers high-quality play-based early childhood education.”

At the time of publishing, the petition has been signed 893 times.

At a council meeting on Monday 27 February, the council was presented with a report offering three options for the future of its kindergarten services: reducing the number of sites where it offers kindergarten and increasing

to 15 hours a week for all three and four-yearolds, providing sessional kindergarten only at the Knox Children and Family Centres in Bayswater and Wantirna South and no longer providing any sessional kindergarten services.

The council said the “thorough service review has included financial modelling, staff feedback, community consultation and the assessment of a demographically representative community panel.”

“Knox is one of very few councils left in Melbourne that directly provides kindergarten on the scale that we do so these changes affect us more than other councils,” the council said.

“There are many services we provide on behalf of state and federal governments where funding has not kept up with the cost of providing services over time, and that is a risk that Council has to consider very carefully.”

Capire Consulting was appointed as an independent consultant to select a “demographically representative” panel to “seek the views of the community” on the changes. The panel met during March and April to review each option, and a statement from the panel will be presented to the council and published online.

Knox City Council operates 29 sessional

kindergarten services in single-room, standalone facilities at a cost of $3.3 million to the council budget each year.

Since January 2022, the council’s kindergarten services have provided five hours of kindergarten to three-year-old children and 15 hours to four-year-old children. The state government’s expansion of universal kindergarten will see 4-year-olds receive 30 hours of pre-prep from 2025 and 15 hours for 3-yearolds from 2029.

The Victorian government provides a subsidy of $2500 per child to kindergarten service providers.

Knox City Council operates 29 sessional kindergarten services in single-room, standalone facilities at a cost of $3.3 million to the council budget each year. Picture: ON FILE

IN BRIEF

Interest rate rise

Interest rates have risen to an eleven-year high, despite the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) Governor stating inflation has hit its peak.

On 6 June, the RBA Governor Phillip Lowe announced a 25 basis point increase to the cash rate target, lifting it to 4.10 per cent. He said despite inflation “passing its peak,” 7 per cent is still too high and it will be “some time before it is back in the target range.”

“This further increase in interest rates is to provide greater confidence that inflation will return to target within a reasonable timeframe,” he said.

“High inflation makes life difficult for people and damages the functioning of the economy. It erodes the value of savings, hurts family budgets, makes it harder for businesses to plan and invest, and worsens income inequality.”

The cash rate represents the interest rate on unsecured overnight loans between banks and serves as the benchmark rate for mortgages, savings accounts and exchange rates.

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

Knox City Council is seeking applications from community and industry representatives for its Arts and Culture Advisory Committee, which gives advice on issues related to the Knox Arts and Cultural Services.

“This is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact within Knox, whilst building your creative networks and strengthening your resume,” the council said.

“Our committee thrives on diversity, commitment and collaboration, and we welcome representatives from all areas of arts and cultural practice.”

The successful applicant will join the committee for two years, from August 2023 to August 2025, and will communicate current and future needs, interests and trends that impact local arts and cultural service provision.

Expressions of interest close Wednesday 21 June. Apply at https://app.betterimpact.com/ Application?OrganizationGuid=13f628ac9233-451f-9462-9de359823c58&ApplicationFormNumber=1

Bayswater EV chargers

New charging electric vehicle charging stations have been installed at Bayswater Train Station.

Knox City Council agreed to a deal with Australian company JOLT to install the stations throughout the LGA after charging stations were first installed at Ferntree Gully Station.

Knox Mayor Marcia Timmers-Leitch said there are around 400 EVs registered in Knox.

“Bayswater train station is an ideal location for this free, fast EV charging station, conveniently located near the heart of the Bayswater shopping centre,” she said.

“Bayswater is a hub for services, employment, public transport and housing, and a destination for convenience shopping, food outlets and retail services.”

Up to seven charging stations will be installed, with the Bayswater charging stations coming at no cost to council or consumers who use them up to 7kwH, or 15 to 20 minutes of charging time, free each day.

WHAT’S INSIDE THE BIBLE?

Have you ever wondered what the Bible is all about?

It is God’s message to us, preserved down through the ages so we can learn of His plan for the earth and have hope for the future.

Send for free booklet outlining the contents of this unique book:

“What’s Inside the Bible”

Yarra Valley Christadelphians

PO Box 516 YARRA GLEN 3775

Email: yvc.vic@gmail.com

Budget gets the nod

By Parker McKenzie

At the Tuesday 6 June council meeting, Yarra RangesCouncilvotedtoadoptthedraft2023/24 budget under the spectre of cost of living pressures and high inflation.

Mayor Jim Child said one of the most important decisions that the council makes each year is the budget.

“This year we’ve taken a very different approach and I commend us as a council and also the executive team for going to the public at an early stage,” he said.

“Our budget is created on behalf of with the assistance of and for communities of over 55 townships. It’s one of our most important documents as I said previously and so community feedback was actually critical when we put this together.”

For the 2023/24 financial year, the council is

expecting to have a total revenue of $245.6 million and a total expenditure of $225.6 million, resulting in a surplus of $20.1 million.

The council is also expecting a cash balance increase of $24.3 million, which is the amount of money the council will have after it has “met all its commitments from operations, capital expenditure and financial costing.”

Streeton Ward Councillor Andrew Fullagar said it is appropriate to mention that we are currently living in a“very restricted, tight financial environment with relatively high inflation.”

“There are higher expectations from our communities, and that’s appropriate. We should be looking to be to do better and be better,” he said.

“There’s also pressure from state government to take over some of the services that they’ve previously provided.”

Abreakdowninthedraftbudgetalsoshowed

a breakdown of how the council spends rates per $100, with the biggest expenditure being capital works ($27.94), followed by waste management ($10.73) and roads, drains and footpaths ($10.61).

Mayor Child said the council had heard from hundreds of people in the lead-up to the draft budget being ratified.

“Cost of Living pressures, including rising interest rates, material and labour costs have had a significant impact on the community and on our council,” he said.

“You can see we’ve done some very extensive work in this budget.”

The council said earlier in the meeting it had 687 contributions from people online and 209 people at six roadshow events.

The council unanimously voted to support the draft budget.

Dandenong Ranges facilities get funds

By Callum Ludwig

Yarra Ranges Council has sped up the implementation of its 2023/24 draft budget by adding an additional Council meeting to their schedule on Tuesday 6 June.

The draft budget is now open for the community to view and provide feedback until 5pm on Sunday 20 June, with the finalised budget to be considered at the Tuesday 11 July meeting.

Speaking to the motion, Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child said the community has told the council that continuing services and providing good local infrastructure were a must for this year’s budget.

“Our Budget is created on behalf of, with the assistance of and for our communities over 55 townships. It’s one of our most important documents, and so community feedback is critical when we put it together,” he said.

“We heard, in person and online, that people wanted a stronger focus on infrastructure such as roads, footpaths and drainage, to look after existing assets alongside building new ones and prioritise the protection of our environment.

The full list of 57 Capitals Works Projects for completion by July 2024 has been announced, split between the three major subsections of the region: 14 in the Hills, 16 in the Valley and 27 in the Urban area of the LGA. The total expenditure on these projects totals $76.6 million, with $21.5 million of that total carried over from 2022-23.

Cr Child said the Capital Works program looks different this year.

“We want to balance how we invest in new infrastructure while maintaining and improving the assets we have,” he said.

“Our primary focus this year is on maintaining, repairing and improving our footpaths, roads and trails, helping you get to where you need to go.”

$59.4 million of the total is going towards renewing existing assets, with $17.1 million is set to construct new assets. $36.2 million of external funding has been received from a combination of the State and Federal Governments.

Cr Child said that cost of living pressures – including rising interest rates, materials and labour costs – has had a significant impact on the community and on Council.

“We’re extremely mindful of balancing two very delicate situations – the community facing some of the greatest cost of living pressures in more than a decade, and the same pressures impacting the costs of our service delivery,” he said.

“Designing a budget to deliver more than 100 services to 165,000 residents across 55 townships is never easy, so we’ve held or reduced our investment in several areas to our 2022-23 financial year levels, to allow us to invest more in areas identified as priorities by the community.”

Streeton Ward Councillor Andrew Fullagar seconded the motion and said we are living in a very restricted, tight financial environment with relatively high inflation.

“7 per cent increase in costs and services are blowing out, with some of our infrastructure costs increasing by 20 per cent. There are higher expectations from our communities, and that’s appropriate, we should be looking to be to do better and be better,” he said.

“I believe this is a very appropriate and responsible document in the difficult circumstances we live in. I think overall, it reads well and it’s one of the better budgets I’ve read over the last number of years.”

The motion was carried unanimously.

Yarra Ranges residents can read more about the draft budget and provide their feedback here: www.shaping.yarraranges. vic.gov.au/council-budget-2023-24.

The full list of Capital Works in the Dandenong Ranges is as follows:

· Belgrave – streetscape improvements on Blacksmiths Way ($200k, multi-year project)

· Belgrave Heights – Installation of new lighting and fencing at the tennis facility ($250k, including Federal Government funding)

· Belgrave South – Infrastructure works at the Recreation Reserve, including lighting and a youth space ($290k, State Government funding)

· Ferny Creek - Installation of new lighting and fencing at the tennis facility ($250k, including Federal Government funding)

· Ferny Creek – Construction of a path to connect existing path with One Tree Hill Car Park ($30k, multi-year project)

· Kalorama – Design of new drainage outfall pipe on Childs Road ($15k, multi-year project)

· Monbulk – Stormwater Harvesting System for Monbulk Reserve ($168k)

· Monbulk – Energy works as part of the Monbulk Resilient Energy Precinct Project

· ($100k, including $50k Federal Government Funding)

· Tecoma – Footpath rehabilitation on Burwood Highway ($154k)

· Tecoma – Footpath rehabilitation on Kitchener Road ($18k)

· Upwey – Playspace renewal works on Wright Avenue ($200k, including $100k State Government funding)

· Upwey – Footpath rehabilitation on Argyle Avenue ($19k)

· Upwey – Renewal of tennis courts, including surface, lighting, fencing, drainage and infrastructure ($465k)

· Upwey – New court surfaces, lighting, fencing and infrastructure at the Upwey South Community Space ($330k, Federal Government Funding)

Violi seeks ‘wait’ answers

By Tyler Wright

Casey MP Aaron Violi is calling on the federal government to release information on how long locals are waiting on vital social security payments during the cost-of-living crisis.

In a senate estimates hearing on 31 May, it was revealed that Centrelink call wait times had ballooned from an average of 14 minutes in 2021 to 2022 to 20 minutes up until 31 March 2023.

In the 2022-23 financial year up until 31 March, 60.4 per cent of Centrelink customers were served within 15 minutes, Services Australia CEO Rebecca Skinner said.

“The current staffing is about 400 under the average staffing level for this year,” Ms Skinner said.

“The cap is 28,560 ASL for the 2022-23 financial year and we were at about 28,151 at the end of 30 March. We are actually just a bit higher than that now as we’ve entered into the final part of the financial year.”

Mr Violi has submitted questions to Minister for Government Services Bill Shorten to provide official data on how long it is taking for locals to get the help they need when they make a claim or visit a Centrelink office.

The questions will formally appear on the notice paper of the senate estimate hearing on Tuesday 13 June.

“I have met with constituents and regularly have calls to my office regarding Centrelink payment delays. Whether it be delays processing Youth Allowance, JobSeeker, delays in up-

dating databases with new information or long periods on hold,” Mr Violi said.

“The staff at Services Australia in Lilydale are great and work really hard. It is important we get this data from Minister Shorten to determine how widespread these delays are and whether there is scope for the government to improve things – whether it be additional resourcing or otherwise.

“We simply cannot have people waiting

weeks for a payment in the middle of a cost-ofliving crisis.”

The Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service (DRERS) is a not-for-profit organisation assisting people facing crisis, for reasons such as illness, unemployment, domestic violence, homelessness, and other hardship.

CEO Tania Bevan said DRERS has assisted “hundreds of people” in the past year from assistance with paying or contributing to bills

to providing food and fuel vouchers, assisting with medical costs and providing information about utility relief grants, referrals and advocacy.

“70 per cent [of people] are on Centrelink, 26 per cent have no income and four per cent are on other income such as Workcover. Some of the 26 per cent are waiting for Centrelink payments to begin, so the numbers are high,” Ms Bevan said.

“I would like to see everyone who is eligible for Centrelink payments transition to receiving these payments as quickly as possible.”

Shadow Minister for Government Services, Paul Fletcher, said Australians deserve seamless, simple and safe service delivery from the government.

“The federal government must ensure people are spending less time on the phone or in a queue at Centrelink and more time in a job,” Mr Fletcher said.

“Unfortunately, Labor’s track record isn’t great – in February this year it was revealed that over 2.1 million Australians chose to terminate a call rather than wait on the phone to Centrelink.

“But there also needs to be a strong focus on enhancing digital platforms like MyGov, so more Australians can access vital information at their fingertips.”

Mr Shorten will have 60 days to answer the questions submitted by Mr Violi.

Mr Shorten’s office chose not to comment before receiving the submitted questions.

FOGO bins to launch in October to reduce food waste

By Tanya Steele

A Food Organics and Garden Organics or FOGO collection has been announced for households across the Yarra Ranges and will be introduced on 2 October this year.

Once the collection begins, garden clippings and food scraps, including meat and bones, will be able to be disposed of in residents’ FOGO bins, in an effort to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said the new FOGO bin system was part of the State Government’s Circular Economy Policy.

“Up to 45 per cent of the material in a typical Yarra Ranges household’s rubbish bin is food waste,” he said.

The system is designed to reduce waste and stop material going to landfill, while also reducing harmful greenhouse gases.

“By using the new FOGO service and placing all of our food scraps into the FOGO bin instead of the rubbish bin, we can save 13,500 tonnes of food waste going to landfill every year,” Cr Child said.

“This will significantly reduce our impact on the environment and the unstainable reliance we have had on landfill for many years,” he said.

Ethne Pfeiffer, president of the Healesville Community Garden, welcomed the announcement.

“I think it is a really positive step in terms of whole communities managing their waste,”’ she said.

Senator Linda White

Residents who do not yet have a green organics bin will receive a new lime greenlidded FOGO bin between August and September, prior to the new service starting on 2 October.

The dark green lids on household garbage bins will also be changed to red, to help peo-

YOUR VOICE IN THE AUSTRALIAN SENATE

ple distinguish between each type of bin.

Yellow lidded recycling bins will remain unchanged.

Ms Pfeiffer said it would probably take a while for everyone to get the hang of the changes.

“That’s just us being humans and whoever is on the end of the process picking up our bins, that is going to be messy for a while but that’s our reality,” she said.

Once the new system is in place, the FOGO bin will be collected weekly and taken to a composting facility.

The food material will then be processed to create nutrient-rich compost to help improve soils on farms and gardens.

“The challenge is managing every part of the process to get the benefits,” Ms Pfeiffer said.

As a result of food waste being disposed of through the FOGO bin, household garbage will move to a fortnightly collection.

This new FOGO collection is for all properties, including businesses and community organisations, that currently use council’s waste and recycling services.

To find out more about the new FOGO service, go to yarraranges.vic.gov.au/whywasteit

The bin system will begin in early October this year across the Yarra Ranges.

Picture: YARRA RANGES COUNCIL WEBSITE

Mr Violi will ask Bill Shorten how long residents in Casey are waiting to process a claim with Centrelink.

Picture: ON FILE

‘Lunar halo’ phenomenon spotted in The Basin

By Tyler Wright

If you spotted a large ring around the moon on the night of Sunday 4 June, it was because a lunar 22 degree halo had formed in the sky.

Photographer Nicole Bates captured the phenomenon from The Basin, posting the image to social media.

“[It] got brighter as the night went on,” Ms Bates wrote.

The images prompted comments from Facebook users including Janice Dean.

“Brilliant pic Nicole,” Ms Dean wrote.

“Nicole. Spectacular!,” Janette Greenall from Olinda added.

Mount Burnett Observatory committee member Jacquie Milner said the lunar halo us formed by ice crystals from cirrus clouds bending the light towards earth in a 22 degree halo.

“You can get them with the sun and the moon...we don’t tend to see them in the day time because we’re conditioned not to look at the sun,” Ms Milner said.

“That’s the easiest part of a big complex part of a set of atmospheric optics that ice crystals form. We usually don’t see the rest of the set because it’s not cold enough.

“Different shaped ice crystals form and you get things like sun dogs and much bigger secondary rings as well, but you tend to only see them in latitudes which are closer to the poles.”

Because lunar halos are not seen as often in Australia as they are in other countries, Ms Milner said, people tend to think of them as a “weird” occurrence.

“Usually people will see them and say ‘oh, the weather is coming, or it’s going to rain in a couple of days’; and that’s because you often get serious cloud being blown off the top of cold fronts and so they’re heralding the cold front coming through,” Ms Milner said.

“Sometimes you just get a high pressure system and there’s a bit of random cirrus cloud around or light cloud haze over the sun and it will cause that effect as well.”

Ms Milner said while the halo is “pretty to see,” it is not startling and quite common.

“Enjoy the prettiness, but certainly don’t be startled with it,” she said.

“It’s quite a natural phenomenon, and it occurs all the time.

“Often the moon causes moon bows, but they’re not seen as often as rainbows.”

3MDR gets $50K boost

By Tyler Wright

A local community radio station has received a $50,000 boost from the state government following Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino’s November 2022 state election win.

The funding for 3MDR, based in Upwey, was allocated in the 2023/24 budget.

3MDR Engagement Coordinator Ren Cuttriss said the funds will enable the organisation to continue to operate and provide financial security for part-time staff.

“It might be simple things like paying our rent and paying our electricity bills, but also I think it’ll be really freeing and enable us to get back out into our community and start being able to attend events again and hold events and support our creatives and our live music scene by being able to pay musicians and sound engineers for their time for events at industry rates,” Mx Cuttriss said.

Around 110 volunteers taking on roles including broadcaster, sound engineers and videographers keep the station running alongside staff members.

“We support live music so much and our local creative scene. We’re very lucky out in our licence area to have a wonderful creative community. We also think that it’s a place where they go to escape the real world,” Mx Cuttriss said.

“We don’t run a news on the top of the hour...It’s a place for people to come and listen to our volunteer broadcasters share their musical knowledge and their take on what’s going on in the world at the time.

“We invite our audience in, you can text us, you can call us... we really do invite our community to engage with us and be part of the broadcast, so I think it enables them to really participate as listeners as well, which I think is

really exciting.”

At a 3MDR Garden Party in October 2022, Daniela De Martino announced the Labor government would inject $50,000 into the local station if re-elected.

“From turntables and cassettes to laptop computers, we have heard and seen how the radio station has grown and changed throughout the decades,” Ms De Martino said at the time.

“But most of all, it could not be done without the dedication of local community members who volunteer their time to bring us such a full program, with events and information relating to our local area.”

In October 2022, Daniela De Martino announced the Labor government would allocate $50,000 to 3MDR if re-elected.

3MDR Engagement Coordinator Ren Cuttriss (left) with Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino (right).

Picture: SUPPLIED

Nicole Bates captured a 22 degree halo around the moon from The Basin on Sunday 4 June.

Picture: NICOLE BATES

Inspiro CEO to sleep on it

By Parker McKenzie

A Yarra Ranges Healthcare Service’s CEO will be one of many taking part in Vinnies CEO Sleepout on Thursday 22 June, in an effort to raise funds and awareness for those doing it tough throughout Australia.

Inspiro Health CEO Sue Sestan said taking part in the annual event “is no way at all a representation of what it’s like to be homeless.”

“It’s to raise that awareness that homelessness can happen to anybody. It strikes people of all social standing and then has very complicated results for us as a society,” she said.

“We consider ourselves a wealthy country but that divide between those that don’t have and those that do is getting bigger.”

Funds raised through the Sleep Out go towards accommodation for people experiencing homelessness, food items through support centres, individual support programs and emergency assistance and home visits.

Ms Sestan said 2023 will be her fourth time taking part in the annual fundraiser.

“It became pretty evident to us there was a group of homeless people that were sleeping rough in MelbaPark, so a number of us were helping out by just giving them packages of things to help support them during that time because it was cold,” she said.

“I’m very privileged and therefore we sometimes don’t necessarily understand the empathy that it takes.”

She said not-for-profits that provide emergency relief are quoting a 30 per cent rise in

people needing assistance because of the rising cost of living.

“We can’t just have this complacent mindset around, oh, somebody else will look after it, because they won’t,” she said.

“As a society, we’ve been really negligent to think about social housing as an absolute requirement of what everybody deserves. Everybody deserves a safe place to live, education and employment.

If those three things are not met, then we’re letting our communities down, and housing is probably at the top of that hierarchy.”

More than 120,000 people in Australia do not have access to a safe and secure place to live.

Ms Sestan said there has also been a rise in older women facing homelessness.

“There is a rise of women in their 50s experiencing homelessness purely because they find themselves dependent on their partners and after marriage or relationship breakdowns,” she said.

“They’re finding themselves with little superannuation to fall back on, perhaps no job, because they’ve been caring for a family most of that time.”

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

People can contribute to Ms Sestan’s CEO Sleepout at ceosleepout.org.au/fundraisers/ suesestan/victoria

Westfield Knox courts approval for its rebuild

By Parker McKenzie

Westfield Knox opened its new community basketball area alongside other amenities on Thursday 8 June, as a part of a $355 million redevelopment of the shopping centre.

The FIBA-grade basketball court, 20 new stores and an outdoor children’s play area are just some of the new additions to the shopping centre open to the public.

Westfield Knox Centre Manager Kristian Nicholls said considerable research went into the redevelopment.

“The reason why we’re putting the basketball court is I met with a lot of community leaders and business leaders, and basketball was a huge part. There are 16,000 people that play basketball every Saturday,” he said.

“There is a shortage of courts, customers love that level of activity so I think we’re introducing usages that just are relevant.”

Not everyone is happy, however, with locals taking aim at the new paid parking scheme introduced at the centre.

Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor and Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino urged the

Centre to reconsider the decision to charge for parking, which has historically been free, and have requested a meeting with centre management.

“I’m deeply concerned about the impact paid parking will have on hard-working Knox locals,” Mr Taylor said.

“We’re asking for Westfield Knox to come to the table and listen to thousands of people who have already signed the petition in opposition to this decision.”

Shortly after Mr Taylor launched the petition against the decision, it has signed by more than 2,500 people.

Mr Nicholls said the centre’s “priority is to provide convenient, safe and assessable parking for our customer,” and the changes wouldn’t affect patronage.

“We’ve introduced new technology into the centre that’s enabling our customers to find a car park faster and to exit quicker,” he said.

“It’s about ensuring that are providing the best experience and we’re seeing traffic numbers that are well past pre-pandemic levels, so that’s just simply not the case at all.”

The new FIBA-grade basketball court at Westfield Knox. Picture: SUPPLIED

Inspiro CEO Sue Seston.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Two years on from that day

By Tyler Wright and Tanya Steele

On the evening ofWednesday 9 June 2021, Emerald SES Unit Controller Ben Owen remembers the weather conditions being “worse than ever”.

“You probably really didn’t get a grasp of what was going on around you because it was dark and black and you saw the headlights in the vehicle where you were driving, but you didn’t see the whole pitch until daybreak,” Mr Owen said.

“But you could certainly hear in the darkness of the night with the wind howling, that the branch is breaking and the trees falling either close or in a distance... not knowing your fate.”

Lilydale SES Unit Controller Shaun Caulfield expected that day to be windy, but did not believe it would reach the recorded 128-kilometre gush it became.

“We first had a call for someone who was trapped in their house due to rising floodwaters, at six o’clock, we had a swift water rescue event for someone who had driven a car through a cross a flooded road and then around that 8.30 and 9 o’clock mark, it really started to escalate and we started getting more and more calls up in the Mt Dandenong, Kalorama and Olinda,” Mr Caulfield said.

“In Olinda, the weather station went off the air around 8.30pm, so we actually don’t know if there were any stronger winds after that because they had lost power and internet connection.

“The pager was just continuously going off. It would go off for one job and you’d silence and instantly go up again with another job.”

The ferocious winds on that night two years ago saw at least 25,000 trees fall and 200 properties damaged; 81 of which were left uninhabitable. The fallen trees blocked roads and bought down telephone and power lines, leaving thousands without heating and phone or internet connection for weeks.

Mr Owen said it was a “miracle” no residents or emergency service personnel died during the storm event.

“When you think back, the number of houses that were destroyed, number of houses that were non-livable after that, that has the flow on to how long people need to take to rebuild and rehome themselves,” Mr Owen said.

In the 24 months since the event, insurance has proven a difficult hurdle for residents, with some landowners receiving planning permits, but none having yet rebuilt their homes.

According to the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA), there are $312.46 million in incurred costs from the disaster.

There were 34 thousand claims submitted to insurers, with a closed rate of 94 per cent.

There are still 1,908 outstanding claims, with an average claim cost of $9,087.

“It is a known fact that it takes more than 12 months to rebuild and yet this, for most, is the amount of time given from insurance companies for rental assistance,” Yarra Ranges Mayor Cr Jim Child said.

“It’s so important people understand that when there is a disaster like the 2021 June

Storm, rebuilding takes years and not months,” Cr Child said.

“You need to think what would happen to you if you lost your home as a result of a disaster – what insurance cover would you have and how would you be able to manage this process.”

There have been 65 approvals for repairs to dwellings including decks, verandas, outbuildings, garages, carports, retaining walls and fences.

“While some residents had chosen to sell rather than rebuild, others had been unable to afford to rebuild to meet current standards which is required from a Building Permit point of view and future insurance,” Child said.

“Residents have informed us that their insurers have stated that they can only rebuild like for like which will not meet current building standards.

“Once again Yarra Ranges Council is calling on insurance companies to do the right thing – support our residents with their rebuilding

journey and continue to provide rental assistance and allow people to build to current standards and not like for like.”

Mr Caulfied and Lilydale SES’s deputy controller Louise Andrews said they remember hearing the people in Kalorama had no power, deciding they needed to do something to help the community.

“We’d heard they’d started cooking up at the oval, so we used our Facebook page and put out a call that they’d pick up donated goods and supplies from Montrose and take them up to the Kalorama Oval,” Ms Andrews said.

Mr Owen said 24 months after the June storm, people are thinking about disaster preparedness for events including storms and fire.

“The key thing is for people to be vigilant and alert,” he said.

“But the typical message is, if power lines are involved, avoid those. If you’re going to use the generator, do so safely and know that they’re not under your building... they could cause a fire risk.”

To reflect upon the June 2021 storm event, a drop-in session is being held at Karwarra Gardens on Friday 9 June for the community to get together to have a quiet chat and listen to some peaceful music while enjoying a cup of tea and some soup. Residents who have experienced trauma, damage or loss as a result of the June storm are also able to discuss their circumstances with the counselling support service Windermere by contacting 0408 521 320.

Cr Child said staff from Council’s Emergency Management Team also continued to work closely with the community, offering a variety of events, advice or connection to a range of support services.

“In addition to continuing to support residents impacted by the storm, we have a wide range of resilience programs that are being undertaken as part of the Federal Government’s Preparing Australian Communities fund.

“Responding in an emergency is as much about preparation and planning as it is about the actual response and clean-up itself.”

Homes in the Mount Dandenong and Kalorama areas were damaged.

The fallen trees blocked roads and bought down telephone and power lines, leaving thousands without heating and phone or internet connection for weeks.

At least 25,000 trees fell during the June 9 storm event in 2021.

Pictures: EMERALD SES

200 properties damaged; 81 of which were left uninhabitable.

An SES vehicle damaged on Mount Dandenong Tourist Road.

‘Rainbow after the storm’

By Tyler Wright

The Kallista Village Township Group is set to hold a community event for locals to reflect on the June 2021 storm two years after the event ravaged the area.

‘Rainbow after the Storm’ will bring together people from Kallista, The Patch and Sherbrooke on Friday 16 June to share stories and plan ahead for future emergencies.

Kallista Village Inc secretary and local GP

Dr Miki Schwartzbord said recovery in the area mostly come down to “neighbourly acts of kindness”.

“There were definitely parents from the schools running around, making meals, dropping off stove-top meals,” Dr Schwartzbord said.

A newly-formed branch of the Kallista Village Township Group, Kallista Emergency Group (KEG), will introduce a potential model for our community to respond to future emergencies and also invite participation in its development.

“How do communities reach and access support?Whether it’s council, whether it’s state government and now all levels of government, our federal MP, our state MP, our local councillors, they know that we’re here and we’re in touch from time to time,” Dr Schwartzbord said.

“All of that has actually been shown to help communities. The communities that thrive and do well after these sorts of things are ones that have those connections both sideways and up and down.”

The event marking the second anniversary of the 2021 storm will include local poet Jim Brown, reciting “Once in a Thousand Years” - a poem written especially for the event.

CFA and Yarra Ranges Council representatives will be in attendance at the Kallista

Mechanics Hall to discuss recovery at round tables.

“People are at very different stages of recovery, and I’m sure there’s some people who might have just lost their power for a few weeks and moved on, and then there’s some people who would be deeply anxious and rattled by weather events,” Dr Schwartzbord said.

“Then there’s people who have left the mountain who have said ‘I don’t want to live

Choir to tackle Pinafore

By Parker McKenzie

The Singularity Choir will perform Gilbert and Sullivan’s H.M.S Pinafore at St Margaret’s Uniting Church in Mooroolbark on Sunday 18 June to raise funds for young people in Uganda.

The performance, which starts at 2pm, is in support of RubagaYouth Development Association (RYDA), a not-for-profit founded in 1992 that provides accommodation, vocational and life training for underprivileged people.

Doug Williams from St Margaret’s Uniting Church said they’ve had a long-running relationship in supporting the work done by RYDA.

“This is a registered charity in Kampala and Uganda that is dedicated to orphaned and disadvantaged youth aged between twelve and 18,” he said.

“They have a college that they built themselves from a vacant block of land that was donated that now has accommodation for up to 300 young males and females in separate dormitories.”

The Singularity Choir will perform H.M.S Pinafore in concert in full costume with all proceeds going towards the charity.

Musical Director Cecily Woodberry said the choir has been supporting charitable causes for around two decades and has raised over $100,000 for charities in that time.

“We’re a community choir, and we also encourage some emerging artists to come and join us,” she said.

“It’s a very good cause and also because there’s afternoon tea afterwards, it is a good event and a good outing.”

She said community music is coming back again after a tough few years.

“People are starting to sing again because there’s been a lot of disruption over COVID years,” Ms Woodberry said.

“It’s really good to get out and encourage people to come, not just to help their fellow singers and all the community singers, but

to get out of their houses and be a part of it all.”

H.M.S Pinafore is a comic opera that first opened in 1878 and is the story of a common sailor falling in love with his ship’s captain’s daughter, who has already had her hand promised to the First Lord of the Admiralty.

Mr Williams said performances by the choir are “always musically magnificent.”

“It is always crazily mirthful and fun because of Gilbert and Sullivan’s creative genius so long ago,” he said.

“It is obviously for a very good cause apart from our own enjoyment, and it’ll be great entertainment, a friendly crowd, lots of music and a few laughs.”

Tickets are $10 each and can be reserved by calling 0401 177 775 and are also available at the door.

there anymore,’ and then there’s people who are still dealing with red tape and barriers to getting houses fixed, kitchens fixed, [getting] back into or mov[ing] into a new house, which is a huge sense of loss.”

By having a township group, Dr Schwartzbord said new relationships have formed between community organisations including the school, the hall, the traders and the CFA.

“From a GP perspective, I think emergen-

cies can create a great deal of anxiety. And anxiety can sometimes come out of a feeling of helplessness and not knowing what to do,” he said.

Bookings for ‘Rainbow after the Storm’ are essential, and can be found at https://www. trybooking.com/CHZFJ

The event is made possible by a grant from Yarra Ranges Council and will run from 6pm to 8pm.

Josephine (Jodie Debono) and cousin Hebe (Anne Wakefield) would love to see you at St. Margaret’s for a performance of Gilbert & Sullivan’s H.M.S. Pinafore. Picture: SUPPLIED

Trees down on Monbulk Road in Monbulk. 240519

A budget for tough times

Every year, our budget is created on behalf of, with the assistance of and for our communities in over 55 towns.

It’s one of our most important documents, and so community feedback is critical when we put it together.

We heard, in person and online, that people wanted a stronger focus on infrastructure such as roads, footpaths and drainage, to look after existing assets alongside building new ones and prioritise the protection of our environment.

I’m happy to say that this feedback has directly shaped our draft budget, now available for viewing.

We’ll be spending $23 million on road, footpath and bike path maintenance and construction, $14m on maintaining and redeveloping sports fields, playspaces, parks and reserves, and $11m on programs to protect and enhance our natural environment, all substantial increases on the last financial year.

This significant level of investment will deliver initiatives and programs that directly respond to community feedback.

Our Capital Works Program looks different this year too.

We want to balance how we invest in new infrastructure while maintaining and improving the assets we have.

Our primary focus this year is on maintaining, repairing and improving our footpaths, roads and trails, helping you get to where you need to go.

We’ll have some exciting projects coming up over the year, including new lighting and a youth space in Belgrave South, playspace

CARTOON

Jim Child

works and Upwey, Badger Creek and Mount Evelyn, among other areas, stormwater harvesting at Monbulk Reserve to use water smarter, along with new Community Sports Pavilions in Powelltown and Pinks Reserve. Our Warburton Mountain Bike Destination and Yarra Valley Trail will move along this coming year, with significant investment, and we’ll be building a new urban park in Chirnside Park. We’re doing all of this while continuing to deliver more than 120 services – everything from libraries to pools, immunisations to planning permits, health inspections to footpath works - in one of the largest and most diverse local government areas in Victoria.

We’re extremely mindful of balancing two very delicate situations – the community facing some of the greatest cost of living pressures in more than a decade, and the same pressures impacting the costs of our service delivery.

I think our draft budget strikes this balance well.

I encourage everyone to read this year’s budget, and to sign up at shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au so you can be notified of projects and engagements near you.

Monbulk’s ‘lyrebird lady’ receives Order of Australia

By Tyler Wright

Monbulk’s Jan Incoll - also known as the ‘Lyrebird lady’- has been named on the King’s Birthday Honours List, receiving an OAM (Order of Australia) for her service to conservation and the environment.

Ms Incoll has volunteered for the Sherbrooke Lyrebird Study Group for 24 years, holding the role of secretary since 2005.

“The lyrebird survey group has been going for 65 years…it’s the longest continuous serving volunteer group in Victoria, and over that time only had four secretaries,” Ms Incoll said.

Growing up in Bendigo, it was a trip to Selby as a child that ignited Ms Incoll’s intrigue in the species.

“I really thought that I would see lyrebirds down near the Sherbrooke [art] Stockade... I was quite disappointed that I didn’t see one,” she said.

“Later on when we came here to live when I was married... one day my husband and I were jogging in the forest and somebody told us that there were two lyrebirds calling at the top of the hill, I said‘they won’t be there when we get there’, but sure enough they were.”

From then on, Ms Incoll has been found Sherbrooke Forest most mornings monitoring the lyrebird population in the Sherbrooke Forest for the survey group’s database.

“It’s just superb. Every time I go in, I see something different...the other day I was watching one of our favourite birds called Pretenderdisplaying,thenallofasuddenhefroze andIthought,‘what’sgoingonhere?’Andsure enough, a powerful owl flew over.

“All those things that are just amazing.”

For Ms Incoll, each lyrebird has their own characteristics.

“They’re almost like people with personalities,” she said.

“Pretender, we all love, is wonderful for photographers...all the film crews who come in want to film Pretender, and he’s a bird that you can get close to.

“I was watching one of the really old birds,

he was born in 2000, over near the falls...he’s getting anxious for [a female] coming into the breeding season.

“In my time of watching them, I’ve probably seen four matings. That’s the holy grail of what you want to get; a mating.”

Ms Incoll said she was “honoured and surprised” to receive The Order of Australia medal.

“I don’t know who nominated me, because they don’t tell you that, but I’d like to say thank you to all the people that are in my group, the ones that are present and the ones who’re no longer with us, and to also thank Parks [Victoria] for their support over the years” she said.

The Sherbrooke Lyrebird Study Group’s dawn survey results in 2022 saw 76 male lyrebirds detected in the area, with population numbers slowly increasing.

But Ms Incoll said the June 2021 storm event “devastated” the west side of Sherbrooke Forest, leaving the group unable to monitor that particular area for two years.

“Their biggest problem present in the forest is deer.”

At this time of year, Ms Incoll, who has also been a committee member for Friends of Sherbrooke Forest, voluntarily takes groups through Sherbrooke Forest to see the Superb Lyrebird.

“I like to share what I enjoy with other people,” she said.

“It’s important. It’s important to my husband, too. Bill does weeds and I do the lyrebirds. Sometimes I’m walking the forest and people will pass me and say ‘you’re the lyrebird lady’.”

“I should get my tail out.”

During winter, the lyrebird study group holds dawn survey’s beginning at Grants Picnic Ground in Kallista.

For more information on the group or to book a place at the sawn surveys, email Jan Incoll: bincoll@melbpc.org.au

You can also learn more at the group’s website, http://sherbrookelyrebirdstudygroup.blogspot.com/

Incoll has been volunteering for the Sherbrooke Lyrebird Study Group for 24 years.

SHOP LOCAL MONBULK

Providing the best of care

Owner and Veterinarian Emma Thomerson is delighted to introduce the MonbulkVeterinary Clinic to our beloved community.

Since taking ownership of the clinic in April 2023, my team and I have been dedicated to delivering the highest standard of care to every furry member of your family. Our mission is to ensure the health and well-being of your pets while fostering a personalized and welcoming experience for each client.

With over 8 years of experience in the field, including working at esteemed animal hospitals and clinics, I have gained valuable insights and expertise in small animal veterinary medicine and surgery. At Monbulk Veterinary Clinic, we offer a comprehensive range of services to address your pet’s needs, including health checks, vaccinations, microchipping, desexing, surgical procedures, diagnostic imaging, and medical condition management. We are also equipped with in-house blood testing capabilities to provide prompt and accurate diagnoses.

Beyond our services, we are proud to offer a selection of parasite-prevention products and specialty prescription diets. If there’s a specific product you need, we are more than happy to accommodate your requests. Your pet’s wellbeing is our top priority, and we strive to provide the necessary resources and guidance to help you make informed decisions about their health.

The past year has highlighted the significance of the bond between humans and animals. Our pets have been our steadfast companions, offering solace and support during uncertain times. Recognizing this, I am deeply committed to educating pet owners about proper healthcare and preventive measures.

By empowering you with knowledge and offering compassionate veterinary care when

necessary, we aim to maximize the health and longevity of your furry friends.

At Monbulk Veterinary Clinic, we take great pride in our personalized approach. We genuinely want to know our clients and their pets on an individual level, tailoring our services to their unique needs. As the primary veterinarian at the clinic, I am excited to get to know you and your pets personally. Our clinic is a true family-run business, and you may even see members of my family assisting around the clinic, including my mother, who has transitioned from human nursing to veterinary nursing.

Since our recent opening, we have been overwhelmed by the warm reception from the community. We hosted a successful open day where we had the pleasure of meeting many

new faces and their beloved furbabies. It was a joyous occasion that allowed us to showcase our state-of-the-art facilities and demonstrate our commitment to providing exceptional care.

Even if you don’t have a pet in need of veterinary attention, we encourage you to stop by and say hello. We cherish the opportunity to connect with our community and contribute to its well-being. The Monbulk Veterinary Clinic is more than just a place for veterinary care; it’s a hub for pet owners to seek guidance, share stories, and feel part of a caring community.

For me, purchasing the business and reopening the doors to the community has been a dream come true. Owning my own veterinary clinic has always been a heartfelt ambi-

tion, and I am delighted to have taken this leap. I feel incredibly at home in the Monbulk Veterinary Clinic and relish the sense of community that permeates our town.

My goal is to become the trusted face that you can rely on when it comes to the health and happiness of your beloved animals.

We invite you to visit us at 2 Nugent Street, MonbulkVIC 3793, or reach out to us via email at admin@monbulkvetclinic.com.au or by phone at 03 9752 1001. Our trading hours are designed to accommodate your busy schedules, and we are always here to provide compassionate care for your pets.

At Monbulk Veterinary Clinic, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care for your beloved pets.

Sharon(left)andEmmainReception. 339214

Pictures:STEWARTCHAMBERS MonbulkVeterinaryClinic. 339214

Better banking, big impact

Bendigo Bank is one of Australia’s largest banks and one of the country’s most trusted brands (Source: Roy Morgan Risk Monitor 2020). It has the products and technology you’d expect from a big bank, plus the personal service you wouldn’t.

Bendigo Bank’s network of Community Bank branches are owned by local people and operated in partnership with the bank.

Community Banks operate on a profit-withpurpose model, which means their profits are returned directly to the people and communities that generated them.

Almost $300 million has been pumped back into Australian communities by the network of branches to date, including over $797,500 of it here in Monbulk & District.

It’s a win–win when you bank with Community Bank Monbulk and District.

This year our customers’ banking has helped us support the clubs, projects and organisations at the heart of our community. That includes things like Trek Learning Centre, Open Door Food Pantry and the Emerald Monbulk Wildlife Shelter.

Where else can your banking create such a positive impact?

Feel good about who you bank with. Visit Community Bank Monbulk & District at 70 Main Road Monbulk, or call 9752 1130 to make your appointment.

Bank better at Monbulk Bendigo Bank. Picture: SUPPLIED

SHOP LOCAL MONBULK

A part of the community

Two years down the track since I re-opened Monbulk Drycleaners, and I feel very much part of the community.

Business has boomed way beyond my expectation, and I am truly grateful for the support from everyone.

I have tried to make the shop presentation something different. In my Belgrave shop, (some may remember) I had two little white puppies that barked their way into the hearts of the locals. They have long passed to that kennel in the sky, so my next option was to fill

that space with pot plants. I only started with a few, but with much encouragement (and advice) from the many that stop to chat, I have expanded until the jungle effect I have now. Some customers even taking cuttings, or swapping out plants that they fancy. I also decided to add something more dynamic to the front window, with a model train set weaving its way through the trees and bushes. I don’t know who gets more excited…the kids, the adults, or me. With the Cherry blossom room dividers, and the facia above to match…I reckon it’s

not a bad look at all, with many compliments received from customers. A good experience together with your business, is what I have set out to achieve.

I am about to add to our wet cleaning machinery lineup, a state-of-the-art computerised 18kg washing machine. The specially programmedcycles,togetherwithenvironmentally friendly additives, injected at just the precise moment during the wash makes for excellent results.Your doonas, bedding and precious garments will never feel better. With no chemicals

involved, and no waste or residue. We pride ourselves on doing our bit for the environment, by delivering a quality service. With the cold months now upon us, time to change over that doona, get the summer one cleaned and stowed away for the good weather to come. Our trading hours are

· Monday - Friday 7am till 4 pm

· Saturday 8.30am till 1pm

Looking forward to seeing your faces in the street, thank you Monbulk and surrounds - Michael

Michael outside the shop. 338558

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERSMichael with Plants, Paintings and his famous Model Train. 338558

Session to settle the score

By Parker McKenzie

The Dandenong Ranges Music Council is extending an open invitation to creatives throughout the hills and beyond to have a say in its future direction.

On Sunday 25 June 2pm, a Question and Answer session with a panel made up of music experts will be held at 1451 Burwood Highway, in an effort to “share ideas, connect and engage in informal discussions about the future of music and possibilities to collaborate, create and promote musical projects.”

DRMC founder Beverley McAlister says the panel represents diverse interests and musical expertise.

“People who come will hopefully tell us what can I see are the future needs, do we need a training plan, what does the orchestra need, what does the community need, do they want a kids band?” she said.

“For community music to survive, you’ve got to have a direction. I’m really looking forward to this event because I think it’s going to lift the lid off.”

The panel will feature Bernie Carter, Belinda Gillam-Derry, Dr Christina Green, Brian Hogg, Dave McFarlane, Rod McLeod, Tracey Roberts and Phil Smith.

Mr Hogg, who composes for an orchestra band for returning musicians and retirees, said he has been involved with the DRMC since the early 2000s as a music educator, composer, arranger and music director.

“I think one of the undervalued things is the community that builds with the group itself,” he said.

“It’s a very sociable group that is supportive and caring of one another.”

He said one of the biggest problems for the DRMC is letting people know opportunities to perform and grow as musicians exist.

“There are hidden things that community music making has to offer people that often isn’t considered,” Mr Hogg said.

“Mental health, social groupings, for a lot a people this is the best part of their day. Find-

ing people who have similar interests is vitally important.”

The New Horizons band is just one of the initiatives, ensembles and projects run by the DRMC and has around 30 musicians of all ages and abilties, meeting weekly on Thursdays morning at the Tecoma Uniting Church Hall.

Lisa Chellis joined the New Horizons band because of her love of performing and music.

“I recently moved to Healesville and I’ve always been banding, I’ve always played instruments so I was looking for a new band,” Ms Chellis said.

“Brian is a magnificent conductor and teacher. I’ve worked with a lot of musical directors and he is by far the best one I’ve ever come across.”

She said the band offers her a welcoming environment to be able to perform.

Angela Edwards is another member of the New Horizons band, and she said as a beginner trumpet player, she wanted to join a band.

“I was absolutely terrified because there was no other trumpet that turned up on the day,” she said.

“I learned piano from when I was a young girl, so I could read music, but it was a new instrument.”

She said no matter what the initiative or the instrument, the DRMC was a great place to learn and have opportunities to grow as a musician.

The free panel will explore future opportunities for bands, initiatives and projects from

the DRMC and allow local creatives and musicians to offer feedback for what they need in the hills.

Ms McAlister said the event is focused on looking into the future and what the DRMC can do for the local community to continue growing.

“I’m a bit scared of what we are going to learn, there may be projects that come out of this,” she said.

“There are groups that have stayed under the DRMC banner, like the New Horizons Band, and there are others that have started with us and now run themselves.”

For more information on the panel event and the Dandenong Ranges Music Council, visit drmc.org.au

National Photographic Portrait Prize finalists on display

By Callum Ludwig

The only Victorian showing of the finalists for the National Photographic Portrait Prize (NPPP) 2022 is at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum.

The photographs will be on display during the museum opening hours from Friday 9 June until Sunday 3 September.

Warburton photographer and former filmmaker Iván Gaal is a finalist in the 2022 award, having also been in 2013 and 2015, and said he was very happy to be accepted.

“Out of the 2500 entries, only 50 photographs are accepted so that in itself was a very good present for me,” he said.

“This year I worked with David Mendaue OAM, who contracted HIV over 40 years ago. I had lost contact with him and met up with him two years ago and thought he is looking well. I thought he had a lot of character on his face, showing the survival instinct that he has had for 40 years.”

The NPP has been running for 15 years, with entries coming in from amateur and professional photographers all over Australia.

Mr Gaal said he wanted to show the positive side of all the things David Menadue has done to survive in his work.

“I want people to see that HIV has been a terrible illness in the past but it is still with us today.

“Nowadays the survival rate is very good, medication is very good, the support they get from people and families and organizations is very good and I wanted to draw attention to people like David.”

One of Mr Gaal’s previous finalists in the NPPP was of late Warburton resident Ronnie Howard taken of him dancing in the Mechanics Hall at the Art Centre in Warburton in 2014. He died in 2016 just short of his 100th birthday and Mr Gaal’s portrait was on

display at his funeral.

Mr Gaal said he compares the National Photographic Portrait Prize for photographers to the Archibald Prize (the most prestigious Australian award for paintings).

“I encourage everyone to come and see not just David Menadue in my work, but the 49 other great photographs as well,” he said.

“It’s a very thought-provoking exhibition, the photographs have more of a natural flow of life and it also has a lot of social realism in it where people capture their moments so to

speak, and not many exhibitions accept that sort of work.”

The NPPP for 2022 was won by Wayne Quilliam with his work ‘Silent Strength’.

Director of Collection and Exhibitions at the National Portrait Gallery Sandra Bruce was in town for the launch of the exhibition and to give guided tours on its first day and said one of the most fantastic things about it is that it’s always got such a broad range of Australian content.

“There are people who are well known as

the subjects or ‘sitters’ and there are those who are well-loved family members, it really is about the diverse exploration of the Australian experience,” she said.

“It’s really great that some of the finalists this year are local too. One of the staff at the Portrait Gallery loves using this analogy of windows and mirrors. In some portraits you see a little bit of yourself reflected back because you have a connection with that person while others live in an entirely different world or space to you.”

Ivan Gaal with his submission ‘David Menadue’.

Picture: RICHARD TIMBURY

The winning photo ‘Silent Strength’ by Wayne Quilliam.

Picture: WAYNE QUILLIAMNATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY

The Dandenong Ranges Music Council New Horizons Band on Thursday 8 June. Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE

Neill’s precious stories

Question: If you knew that no matter what you write, people will want to read it – how would you present your life?

Answer: As truthfully as possible.

Which is exactly what Sam Neill does in his wonderful and often hilarious memoir, Did I Ever Tell You This?.

Neill declares “I am writing for myself” because he is possibly dying.

“Suddenly, for the first time in my life, I have time to burn, and time to think. And writing, jotting thoughts and memories down, is a salve. It gets my mind off things.”

And what fascinating thoughts and memories these are.

As Neill reviews his life, first as a seven-yearold Irish migrant to New Zealand and then as an internationally acclaimed actor and finally as a farmer and winemaker, we see an honest, humble and happy-go-lucky guy.

Neill’s writing is genuine and warm, full of joy and a sense of adventure that keeps you going through the 400 pages of monologue.There is often a child-like innocence about him. Yet, many of his stories about family, friendship and film are graceful and tender, full of heartfelt emotions and empathy.

Neill is as self-deprecating as any Aussie can be, which is why Australia adores him. Another feature of his “lively, lovely book” (as described by Meryl Streep) is its frequent use of “poor bastard(s)” as an endearing term. There is neither pretence nor arrogance here.

Pearl more a diamond

know he is not joking.

PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

It is clear that the man writes like he talks. Indeed, when Neill expresses his gratitude to Text Publishing for “all the punctuation”, you

What stands out in Did I Ever Tell You This? is Neill’s pride as a New Zealander, his devotion to all forms of art – from music and literature to architecture, food and wine – and his passion for life, especially the environment and his animals. Despite his great sense of humour, being true to himself is no laughing matter.

Throughout Neill’s book, there is not a bad word about anyone that he has ever worked for, with and/or around. He tells many beautiful stories about the stars and celebrities around the world – some are solemn, many others are funny – but it is his in-depth observations of those “ordinary” people, creatures

and phenomenons that catch your eye. It is at these times that his writing is breathtaking.

This reviewer particularly enjoys the chapter I’m Not Ready to LeaveYouYet near the end of the book. But here is a valuable lesson gifted to us by Neill, which he learnt from another renowned storyteller.

“I love the way [Peter O’Toole] relished every word... Every line is a gift, every word should be given its appropriate weight. It’s language. It’s the English language. It is rich, it is powerful, it is yours. All you mumble-bums who throw away lines – you’ve worked to the point where people are giving you lines, and now you want to throw them away? Take up plumbing, or mow lawns. Please.”

Pearl Starring Mia Goth, David Corenswet and Tandi Wright

Rated MA15+ 4.5/5

A prequel to X, which was one of the best films of 2022, Pearl is an enthralling slasher character study full of love for classic cinema. In 1918 Texas, Pearl (Mia Goth) lives on a farm with her overbearing mother and paralysed father. Pearl dreams of stardom, but family life and her own dark impulses stand in her way. Pearl is a taut, darkly funny portrait of loyalty, ambition and rebellion taken to macabre extremes. Pearl herself resembles a deranged Dorothy from The Wizard Of Oz. Goth’s versatile performance – brutally intense in some moments, subtle and vulnerable in others – garners our sympathy even as Pearl’s death-count ramps up, and in hindsight, it’s a travesty that Goth (who co-wrote the film) wasn’t nominated for Best Actress at this year’s Oscars. Pearl’s themes and cinematography evoke Psycho and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and this prequel engages with elements from X in clever ways; these include enjoying our youth, the overlap between erotica and cinema, and the ominous alligator in the nearby lake. Just as the old Pearl in X lashes out at reminders of her lost youth, the young Pearl reacts with fear and rage to anything that might keep her on her despised farm, and director Ti West weaves Pearl’s violent rebellion and show-business aspirations with graphic precision.

Pearl is out on DVD and Blu-Ray and available to rent or buy on iTunes.

-Seth Lukas Hynes

What’s the Voice referendum about?

It’s about whether we should change the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by setting up an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. A referendum is the only way to change the Australian Constitution.

What is the Voice?

The Voice would be a permanent body that gives independent advice to the Australian Parliament and Government on matters that affect First Nations people.

The Voice aims to help the Parliament and Government to make better decisions and deliver better outcomes for First Nations people.

How will the Voice be set up?

How it’s set up would be determined after the referendum with input from First Nations people, the broader public and the Government. The Parliament would then make a law to set up the Voice.

The intention is that its members will be chosen by and representative of, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from across Australia.

Be ready for the conversation, get informed at

Poets vie for the Woorilla

By Tyler Wright

Entries for the Woorilla Poetry Prize are open once again, with poets of all backgrounds and styles able to enter their work into the international competition.

Now in its 31st year, submissions opened on 1 June, with founder Maria Millers expecting “hundreds” of submissions.

“Poetry tackles all the problems and worries and joys of our very turbulent world,” Ms Millers said.

“When we first started we got a lot of entries from the area, from the Dandenongs and Melbourne, but as the years went by, we started to get more and more entries and winners from all over Australia.”

The Woorilla Poetry Prize began in 1989 as the Woorilla literary journal before Managing Editor Ms Millers proposed to hold a poetry prize after an influx of submissions.

Joined by the late Louise Rockne - then publisher of Poetry chapbook - the first Woorilla Poetry Prize was held at the Pirianda Gardens in Olinda and supported by Parks Victoria.

The first judge was acclaimed poet and academic Judith Rodriguez, who remained as the main judge until her death in 2018.

The prize is now held in Emerald, with Melbourne University professor Kevin Brophy and Alicia Sometimes returning as judges in 2023 after a stint in 2022.

“It’s an interesting thing that a small group of people can find themselves running an international poetry prize,” Ms Millers said.

In 2022, New South Whales’s Tug Dumbly won the Judith Rodriguez Open Section for his poem ‘Pod’.

Jacob Laba from California, USA, was named the winner in the poetry prize’s Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Section for his poem ‘I don’t know how to listen,’ with Jenny Gu taking home the top prize in the Louise Rockne Youth Section for her poem ‘verisimilitude’.

The winner of the Judith Rodriguez Open Section takes home $3,000, with $300 available for the winners in the Culturally and Linguis-

LETTERS

Boronia Development

As a former teacher at Boronia Tech, Boronia Heights Secondary College and Boronia Heights College I am very concerned about the state government’s proposed redevelopment of this now-empty site.

The land has some fantastic old Stringybark trees up the back of the back of the property, in its Sanctuary parallel to Mount View Road and along the access path from Harcourt Road.

Added to this some beautiful, non-indigenous native trees were planted by students and teachers. The Lemon Centered Gums that were planted in the 1980s have since grown into magnificent specimens. All up, all these trees have long provided some excellent habi-

tically Diverse and Louise Rockne Youth sections in 2023.

Ms Millers said there is a misconception that poetry subject matter is limited to “poetic subjects”.

“That’s not true. You can write about anything in poetry,” she said.

“The environment is a very strong theme... and also women’s issues; women trying to find

their place in a different world.”

Entries for this year’s competition close on 30 September 2023, with the awards ceremony held on 19 November.

Entrants in the Open section will need to pay $20 per poem entry.

Those entering into the Youth section (12 to 18years)areabletoenterfourpoemsatnocost, with additional entries costing $5 per poem.

CALD youth aged 12 to 18 years old, who have spoken english for five years or less, will also be able to submit four poems for free with any additional entries costing $5 each.

Those interested in volunteering for the event can email woorilla@y7mail.com.

For more information, visit https://www. woorilla.org.au/

tat for a wide variety of birds including Grey Butcherbirds, Lorikeets, families of Mopoke Owls and Wattlebirds.

Also of historical and cultural importance is the ANZAC memorial and the Lone Pine from the Gallipoli Peninsula. The government is proposing 145 houses for the site whereas Knox Council has suggested 25. Logic suggests that most of the trees that make this land special would be cut down under the state government’s proposal. 175 houses seem excessive and should be revisited before it is too late!

Peter Cook, Emerald

WoorillaPoetryPrizefounderMariaMillers(centre)withattendeesofthe2022presentation.

Picture:SUPPLIED

GORGEOUS FULLY RENOVATED HOME

THIS fantastic family home has 3 bedrooms, all with built-in-robes, and 2 lovely bathrooms. The freshly painted home with open plan kitchen/dining/lounge and plush carpet in all bedrooms is the epitome of move in ready. The kitchen is equipped with Induction electric stove and oven, stone benchtops and a great laundry/ butler’s pantry.

This home will be cosy and comfortable year round, with zoneable reverse system ducted heating and refrigerated cooling throughout and efficient heat pump for hot water. Enjoy the views across to the Cockatoo trees, and the convenience of being only moments from Cockatoo Main Street.

Extensive landscaping has been completed outside, with plenty of off street parking available. The garden beds are freshly planted, and there is a garden shed to the rear of the block. This block also has handy dual access.

This property has it all so don’t miss outcall to arrange a private inspection today.

Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

ENJOY PRIVACY AND VIEWS

THIS fantastic 4/5 bedroom family home situated on approx. ¾ of an acre, enjoys uninterrupted views into the Wrights Forest. Located on a quiet street, with a bitumen driveway leading to the home, peace and quiet await you.

Relax and unwind on the front verandah, before entering the single-storey home that offers 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and plenty of space for your family to enjoy. The master bedroom is located at one end of the home with a built in robe & ensuite. Then the living is open plan in the centre of the home with kitchen, dining room and two living areas. The kitchen offers stainless steel dishwasher, gas stove top and electric oven, rangehood and a split system airconditioner in the dining area.

At the other end of the lovely home are a further 3 bedrooms all with built-in-robes, a laundry, family bathroom, and a separate toilet. Externally, there is a rear deck and a home office/hobby room. There is also a great double shed with concrete floor and power, plus workshop area.

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

“Concept photo”.

“Concept photo”.

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!

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.

Beautifullyrenovatedhomewithgorgeoustreedoutlook,andsocloseto town!

Thisfantasticfamilyhomehas3bedrooms,allwithBIRs,&2lovelybathrooms.Thefreshlypainted homewithopenplankitchen/dining/lounge&plushcarpetinallbedroomsistheepitomeofmove inready!ThekitchenisequippedwithInductionelectricstove&oven,stonebenchtops&agreat Laundry/butlerspantry.Thishomewillbecosy&comfortableyearround,withzoneablereverse systemductedheating&RefrigeratedCoolingthroughout&efficientHeatPumpforhotwater.Enjoy theviewsacrosstotheCockatootrees,&theconvenienceofbeingonlymomentsfromCockatoo mainstreet.Extensivelandscapinghasbeencompletedoutside,withplentyofoffstreetparking available.Thegardenbedsarefreshlyplanted,&thereisagardenshed.Thisblockhasdualaccess.

FairytalehomewithamazingviewsonAlmost8Acres!

Twostoreyhomeonapprox.8acres,withbaywindows,slate flooring,&reclaimedtimberinterior. Theground flooroffersopenplanlivingwiththekitchen,dining,&loungeroomenjoying floor toceilingglasswindows&alargewood fire.TheloungeroomhasasplitsystemAC.Thereisa downstairstoilet&alargelaundry.Thespiralstaircaseleadsto3largebedroomsallwithbay windows&vaultedceilings.Themasterbedroomhasanensuite,WIR,&splitsystemAC.Thereisa studynook,storagearea&atoilet&familybathroom.Thereisadoubleshed,&aDLUG.Thelandis dividedinto3paddocksandthenanaturalbusharea,withwatertoallpaddocks&sheltershedsin 2ofthe3paddocks.Withmainselectricity,septicsystem,&approx.90,000Lwaterstorage.Thereisa 5kWSolarsystemwith6.5kWbatteryback-up,aStarlink&aNBNSatelliteDish.

309PaternosterRoad,Cockatoo$1,050,000-$1,150,000

SamanthaScott M 0438680032

ENTERTAINER’S DELIGHT AND WALK TO TOWN

LOCATED in the heart of Emerald this sundrenched property offers something for the whole family and is sure to tick all the boxes.

Sitting proudly on an expansive flat one-acre allotment, this impressive home is spacious in design and offers a familyfriendly floor plan.

Located in the heart of the home, is an expansive open plan living area, boasting an enormous kitchen, complete with Belling oven, dishwasher, excellent cupboard and storage space, and an oversized island bench.

The adjoining dining and living room are equally as spacious, offering opportunities for both intimate and large social events with family and friends. There are four bedrooms in total, the master suite features built-in robes and a huge ensuite bathroom, enjoy the private garden views from your spa bath! The three secondary bedrooms are all an excellent size and are serviced by the family bathroom.

The family laundry completes the residence. Special features include ducted heating, split system heating and cooling, internal vacuum system, timber flooring, brand new carpet, and a fresh neutral colour scheme throughout.

Outside is sure to impress and delight, the paved and covered outdoor entertaining area is perfect for year-round enjoyment, direct access to the kitchen via the servery window makes entertaining your friends and family a breeze. While you kick back and relax, the kids can run and play on the expansive lawned areas and between the variety of fruit trees. Ideal for the lucky teenager, extended family, or guests, there is a greatsized studio complete with kitchenette and bathroom. For the toys and tools, there is a covered double carport and a secure double garage. The entire property is securely fenced. If country living with all the urban facilities is what you are looking for then search no further! Inspect with absolute confidence. ●

16BoroniaCrescent, Cockatoo

NEAT,SWEETANDYOURSTOCOMPLETE

4 A T 1 B T 1 C

FORSALE.

GUIDE $550,000-$600,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT RileyNicholas 0488501218

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

FANTASTICBUYINGINTHEHEARTOFEMERALD

20BerrysRoad, Emerald

COTTAGECHARMERON1,015M2

2 A T 1 B T 1 C T

FORSALE. GUIDE $660,000-$695,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

31SchoolRoad, MenziesCreek

3 A

FORSALE.

GUIDE $530,000-$580,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

$1,050,000-$1,150,000

ByAppointment

59684522

QUALITY, LOCATION AND SIZE

BEAUTIFULLY updated and painted throughout, this ‘ larger than it looks’ family home comes complete with 4 spacious bedrooms, ensuite and walk through robe off the master suite plus a large home office that is ideal for those needing a little privacy when working from home.

The open plan living room is filled with natural light and extends to the dining area and stunning kitchen that boasts stone benchtops, walk in pantry and exceptional amounts of storage space.

A well sized media / sitting room can also be found off the home office adding another living option for a growing family. Ducted heating runs throughout and a glass sliding door leads you to an oversized alfresco area with pull down blinds plus an extended decking that create an awesome amount of indoor / outdoor space for year round extended living.

Situated on a corner block of 933m2, the property offers a triple carport off the quiet court, trailer / caravan parking bay and a large shed /workshop for those needing extra space for hobbies, storage or a teenagers hang out space.

There is a 9,000 ltr water tank plus a 4.2kw solar panel system. Under house storage is in abundance - This is the ideal place for your camping gear, Christmas decorations and accumulated clutter that we all seem to acquire over the years.

A well fenced yard, pretty garden beds and an opportunity to be in a super convenient location within easy access to everything, this is a must see.●

HOME ESSENTIALS

Address: 79 Dorset Road, FERNTREE GULLY Description:

Contact: Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442, CHANDLER & CO

PREMIER LEVEL PROPERTY IN PRIZED POSITION

THIS quintessential Hills home on a rare level acre of exquisite, established gardens is a fabulous find in this lifestyle location. Securing an esteemed Poets Lane address on the steps of leafy national park and gardens, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

The sweeping drive culminates at this significant single-level residence with a welcoming wrap-around verandah. The interior features considered updates and just enough scope to continue to make it your own. The open plan lounge and dining area boasts exposed beams, rich timber floorboards, and timber windows that frame the garden views. The kitchen has been skilfully updated with hand crafted solid Tasmanian Oak benchtops, a 900mm freestanding gas range, farmhouse sink, beautiful tiles, and a brilliant butlers’ pantry.

floorplan. Featuring 5 generous bedrooms, including main with shower ensuite and bespoke dressing room, there are options for a secondary living area or sizeable home office.

With finishing touches including gas ducted heating, air conditioning, and a prized pocket position near bus transport and several shopping and cafe precincts, this property is guaranteed to attract attention. Don’t delay, treat yourself to a tour today.

· - Rare sunny, level 4,182sqm (approx.) property

· - Single-level weatherboard home with wrap-around verandah

· - Updated kitchen with butcherblock benchtops and butlers’ pantry

· - Open plan living and dining with exposed beams and timber floors

A bounty of bedrooms are also on offer ensuring flexibility within this home’s

HOME ESSENTIALS

· - Surplus of bedrooms, including ensuite main, ensuring immense versatility ● Address: 3 Poets

4 A 2 B 8 C

Thisspectacularruralpropertywithscenicpasturalviewsisasighttobeholdforthose seekingabalancedlifestyle.Comprising11.5acresoflandwith3horsepaddocks,double garagewithexpansiveworkshop,extensivemachinerysheds,bonusbungalow,anda relaxedandinvitingfamilyhome,thisisacompletepackageofcompellingproportions.

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

DanielSteen

M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

4 A 2 B 2 C

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

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

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

FORSALE

OriginallydesignedbyarchitectsMaxMayandGeorgeHatzisavas,andinspiredbyamix ofJapaneseaestheticsandFrankLloydWrights“Fallingwater”thisinspiringsteel,glassand brickhomesetonjustoveroneacrehasbeenrecentlyredesignedandrenovatedtoa superbstandard,resultinginoneofthemostintriguingandsophisticatedresidencesinthe area.

GlennChandler

M 0418410689| E glenn@chandlerandco.com.au

7NettletonRoad,MONBULK $1,150,000-$1,250,000 HANDCRAFTEDHOMEON10SCENICACRES

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

PUZZLES

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Type of nut (6)

4 Country of Southeast Asia (8)

9 Cover story (5)

10 Neighbour of Mexico (9)

11 Popular aquarium fish (5)

12 Elusively (9)

13 Native American tribe (8)

15 Hang (6)

16 Hymn tune (6)

18 Fades back (8)

23 Forming a mental image of (9)

24 Used to speak (5)

26 Artworks (9)

27 Father of Beau and Jeff Bridges (5)

28 Adorn (8)

29 Suppress information (6)

DOWN

1 In a state of disorder (7)

2 Woman’s garment (5)

3 Territory ruled by an Islamic monarch (7)

5 Human manifestation (6)

6 Common name for the US (7)

7 Rummaged (9)

8 Dissect (7)

10 Australian rugby league player and former Senator, – Lazarus (5)

14 Pathological self-admirer (9)

16 Broke off a small piece (7)

17 Pilot (7)

19 Spurs on (5)

20 Town in southern Spain (7)

21 Slim (7)

22 Type of finch (6)

25 Idols (5)

DECODER WORDFIT

9-LETTER WORD

Good

good

D T S E E

X H

axed, axes, dash, date, dates, death, ease, eased, east, eats, exeat, exhaust, EXHAUSTED, hades, haste, hate, hated, hates, haute, head, heads, headset, heat, heated, heats, sate, sated, seat, seated, sedate, seta, setae, shad, shade, shea, stead, taxed, taxes, tease, teased

No. 137

No. 137

No. 137

Green light for landmark

The Trenerry Consortium has received the goahead for its proposed $120m landmark redevelopment of Sherbrooke’s historic Burnham Beeches, which will welcome renowned wellness and sustainability hospitality operator Six Senses to Australia.

The Consortium has received a Heritage Victoria permit for the entire proposed master plan and the green light for the initial stage component from Yarra Ranges Council, with a further application to be lodged with the Council for the remainder of the master plan to bring the Council permit into line with Heritage Victoria’s permit.

These permits will enable the development team to undertake crucial conservation works to the existing buildings, alongside commencing construction of new buildings and upgrades to building and site services.

Notably, it will allow urgent repair works to begin on one of Australia’s most significant and unique art deco buildings - the Alfred Nicholas mansion.

The mansion has sat vacant for 36 years and is in need of urgent restoration and care.

The permits will also see works commence on the development of new buildings and landscaping, bringing the holistic restoration of Burnham Beeches – to be operated by Six Senses - another step closer to opening its doors and welcoming visitors once again.

The Trenerry Consortium, represented by The Victor Smorgon Group, The Kanat Group and Trenerry Property, has brought together the same team that delivered The Continental in Sorrento to Burnham Beeches, with expert

Australian builders Hamilton Marino managing the build and restoration process, and global architecture firmWoods Bagot appointed as lead architects and designers.

Works are expected to commence onsite in October 2023, marking another major mile-

stone for the project team in its journey to restore this site to its former glory.

With the team readying itself to commence building works, the ownership group is proud of the dedication of the project team and the in-depth consultation undertaken to reach this significant moment, which is reflected in the rapport developed with local community groups and passionate neighbours over the past 18 months.

“We are very excited and proud to have received Heritage Victoria’s approval for our entire masterplan, as presented to the local community and key stakeholders late last year. We

value the feedback, support and contribution of the community, and will continue to do so throughout the development process and beyond.

“We are grateful for the ongoing support of Council and the local community as we work to restore Burnham Beeches to its former glory, keeping the restoration of the mansion and other heritage buildings at the heart of the project,” said Trenerry Director, Robert Dicintio.

Great granddaughter of Alfred Nicholas himself and once a Burnham Beeches resident, Sophie Paterson Nicholas, is assisting

the Consortium to ensure all local stakeholders are kept informed.

“The vision for the masterplan is to create a culturally responsive, sustainable, and environmental offering whilst being respectful of the rich history and spirit of the Dandenongs, while ensuring a viable and lasting future for the estate that would be well received by the family,” she said.

In keeping with the Consortium’s key objective to bring the community along on the Burnham Beeches journey, a third community consultation session will be held at the property in the coming months.

Once again, the local community will be invited to meet with the project team to receive an update on program for refurbishment and voice any suggestions, feedback, or questions.

There will also be a further update on the already presented masterplan and its Stage 2 component, which the team expects to lodge with Council in the coming months.

For more information on the conservation and development of Burnham Beeches, visit: https://www.burnhambeeches.com.au/

Trades & Services Employment General Notices

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE A TELSTRA MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT 25 CHAPMAN ROAD, SILVAN VIC 3795, SITE ID: SILVAN WWW.RFNSA.COM.AU/3795001

1.The proposed facility comprises the swap out of six (6) redundant panel antennas (2533mm L) with six (6) new panel antennas (2533mm L); ancillary equipment to be and feeders; and internal works within the equipment shelter, to improve Telstra’s mobile phone network (including 5G).

2.Telstra regards the proposed installation as a ‘Low impact’ Facility under the Telecommunications (Low Impact Facilities) Determination 2018, based on the description above. The proposed infrastructure will comply with the ACMA EME regulatory arrangements.

3.In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Planning Consultant on behalf of Telstra, via email to planning.vic@servicestream.com.au, phone: 03 9937 6555, via post to Planning Consultant, Servicestream, PO Box 14570, Melbourne, VIC 8001 by 5pm 30th June 2023. Service Stream Ltd A.B.N. 46072369870 Telstra Ltd A.C.N. 086 174 781 Amplitel Pty Ltd ACN 648 133 073

Are you experienced in sales and enjoy dealing with customers over the phone?

We are looking for new team members to join our team. Do you like talking to people over the phone, building rapport and great relationships?

If you are a motivated and reliable individual who loves a challenge and enjoys a fast-paced, deadline-driven team environment we want to hear from you. Work close to home with free onsite parking at our office in Pakenham. Your day will be kept busy servicing existing clients and making cold outbound calls to gain new business.

Experience in advertising sales is an advantage, but not essential.

To apply send your resume with covering letter to: Classified Advertising Manager sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

The Alfred Nicholas mansion has sat vacant for 36 years.

Picture: SUPPLIED

The Consortium has received a Heritage Victoria permit for the entire proposed master plan and the green light for the initial stage component from Yarra Ranges Council.

Dogs top Premier Division

By Callum Ludwig

We are nearing the halfway point of the Outer East football season as the league takes a break for King’s Birthday, with the ladder shaping up in all three divisions.

In Premier Division, Wandin are the top dogs, undefeated after seven games with the bye to follow the enforced break.

Wandin has been a high-scoring outfit, notching over 100 points on four occasions and only missing out on cracking a ton by 7 and 4 points in Rounds 5 and 6. The scoring prowess is also seen in the leading goalkicker’s charts, with four of the top 10 donning the Dogs colours: Aaron Mullett (equal 1st), Clinton Johnson (4th), Connor Smith and Tom Merlino (both equal 8th).

Reigning Premiers Narre Warren sits in second, with their only loss coming against Wandin. Will Howe is once again spearheading the Magpies, also tied at the top of the goalkicking charts with 26 for the season so far having also had the bye. Narre has shown no mercy for weaker sides this year, with margins of 70, 145 and 58 against the three bottom sides thus far.

Only percentage separates the impressive Upwey-Tecoma, last year’s grand finalistWoori Yallock and newcomers Gembrook-Cockatoo taking up third, fourth and fifth respectively.

All three sides have been a great value for spectators, each playing in three games decided by less than a goal.

Glenn Costas (5 times in best), Andrew Bartils (4 times in best) and Daniel Waters (16 goals) have been the best performers for the Tigers from Tecoma way, while theirWooriYallock counterparts have been able to turn to Luke Boontjes, Kody Busoli (both 5 times in best) and Zach Monkhorst (11 goals) for inspiration.

For the Brookers, Aaron Firrito has been scintillating (6 times in best) and Myles Wareham’s goalkicking form has translated to the

top division (4 times in best, 23 goals).

Pakenham and Monbulk have two wins apiece but have shown impressive signs with Pakenham’s upset win over Upwey-Tecoma and Monbulk holding Gembrook-Cockatoo goalless for two quarters in a narrow loss two positives.

Unbeaten Bombers soaring in Outer East Division One

By Callum Ludwig

Seven rounds into Outer East Division One and it’s heating up with premiership points split pretty evenly with all sides having played each other once.

Emerald has been the standout in the competition, unbeaten in six games. They have mixed big wins with steely resolve as they edge out their nearest rivals Berwick Spirngs by four points.

There has been a very solid contribution across the board from multiple players, with the Bombers not relying on a big star to win games. Josh Rich has featured in the best in four games and Adrian Russo, Steven Paull, Ethan Grose, Mitchell Gottschalk and Mitchell Thomas impressive on three occasions. Goalkicking responsibilities have also been largely shared around, with Callum White (17), David Johnson and Lachlan Hoye (16) featuring in the fifth and equal sixth in the league goalkicking respectively.

Sitting on four wins each is the recruitment masters Berwick Springs and a young and talented Healesville side.

The Titans will look to turn the tables in return fixtures against league-leaders Emerald after their close loss, while the Bloods will hope to beat Berwick Springs again and assert themselves as the top competition for the Bombers.

Narre Warren recruit Hayden Stagg has been in the best players four times while Ty Ellison outright held the leading goalkicker title for the league (22 goals) until Healesville’s livewire Sam Gebert bagged hauls of five and seven in recent weeks and shot up to join him. Eccentric hairstyle enthusiast Max Donegan and co-captain Nick Mende (5 times in best) have also been key players for Healesville.

Officer and Seville have a 50/50 record at this point in the season, with three wins and three losses. The Kangaroos got the best of the Blues when the two met with a 55-point win in Round 3, but stronger results for Seville and big

wins and close losses for Officer since making this matchup one to watch in the future with both sides aiming to rise up the ladder. Brent Moloney (18 goals, 4 times in best), Anthony Bernardo (4 times in best) and Mark Seedsman (19 goals) have been the Roos key men, while new recruit Nathan Thompson (4 times in best) has added a lot for the Blues alongside stalwarts Jye Sciortino (4 times in best) and Domenic Aloi (12 goals, 3 times in best).

Belgrave and Hallam round out the foot of the table, with Belgrave picking up a droughtbreaking 15-point win over Hallam, who is yet to win a game. Both sides may not hold out hope for finals this year but will keep building and aim to pick up results throughout the season. Belgrave’s JoshWynen (6 times in best) and Hallam’s Harry Sharlassian ( 5 times in best) have been shining lights in the struggling sides, with the Magpies’ Kyle Nunn also fiding his way into the top 10 goalkickers wth 12 for the season so far.

After the break, Hallam host Berwick Springs, Officer open the gates for Emerald, Healesville take on Seville and Belgrave have the bye.

Mt Evelyn and Olinda-Ferny Creek hold the bottom two spots with only a solitary win, with the Rovers beating their nearest ladder rival in the game between the two and the Bloods buoyed by the return of Matt Scharenberg snatching a one-goal win over GembrookCockatoo before the break.

Following the King’s Birthday weekend break, Woori Yallock will welcome Mt Evelyn, Narre Warren will take on Upwey-Tecoma, Pakenham will host Gembrook-Cockatoo and it’s a local rivalry as Monbulk head up to Olinda-Ferny Creek. Wandin will wait and watch on as they have the bye.

Free footy program for kids

The school holidays might be a good time to catch a game of footy with the family, as AFL returns with its Kids Go Free month.

The Kids Go Free Month initiative will run during Rounds 16 - 19 of the Premiership season, giving thousands of children a chance to catch a game for free.

AFL Executive General Manager Customer and Commercial Kylie Rogers said Kids Go Free Month was a perfect activity for families to enjoy during the school holidays.

“The AFL is committed to making our game accessible for everyone to enjoy, so we’re proud to bring back Kids Go Free Month to help ease the cost-of-living pressures for families across the country,” Ms. Rogers said.

There’s nothing quite like getting your friends and family together and soaking up the exciting atmosphere that only live footy

can provide, so I’d encourage footy fans of all ages to snap up a ticket and get amongst all the action these school holidays.”

Kids aged 14 years under will have free entry to AFL games played from 29 June to 23 July over the term two school holidays.

Nominated ticket categories will have junior tickets be free and each match across Kids Go Free Month will help families save up to $28 for a junior ticket at various stadiums across the country.

Tickets for matches at the MCG and Marvel Stadium for Rounds 16-23 will go on sale at 10am (local time) for Club Members and 3pm (local time) for General Public on Thursday June 8.

For more information on how to redeem the Kids Go Free Month offer and ticket onsale dates for other venues, visit afl.com.au/ kidsmonth

Picture: ON FILE

Rogan Goonan (50 Emerald) leaps over Patrick Tatt (5 Hallam). 333277 Picture: ON FILE

Glenn Costas has impressed in a resurgent Upwey-Tecoma side. 335968

Picture: ON FILE

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