Mail - Mountain Views Star Mail - 8th August 2023

No level field here

By Tanya Steele

Poor social media presence in women’s football has been brought to the forefront while the final games are currently being played out in Outer East Women’s Football finals.

The CEO of the Outer League Football and Netball was contacted by a player unhappy with how the league has been managing the social media presence of the women’s football team.

Local Seville club player Jamee Cousens said she wants to feel equal, not just a minority when she is represented online.

“I feel like while the league has made a place for women, they haven’t celebrated them,” she said.

The Outer East Facebook page also had a number of complaints posted online on the weekend of 29 and 30 July about a noticeable lack of scoreboards being posted for the women’s games.

Ms Cousens emailed the CEO directly on Sunday 30 July and said that it’s not just local people, it’s people from outside the teams that have noticed.

The Outer East released a two-page statement on Wednesday, August 2 addressing the issue.

Thinking of Selling?

“...While some Women’s matches are completed earlier in the day the majority are completed after the cut-off time we have contracted with our partner, which does not allow for us to provide this service across our Women’s competition currently…”

Other sporting leagues in Victoria have not appeared to have the same gap in presentation, many with a dedicated social media presence for women.

“Our neighbouring league, the Eastern football netball league, it is unreal the difference, they post their ladders,’ Ms Cousens said.

“It is completely different and it seems incredibly inclusive. Everyone is portrayed as equal and it is what I would expect from our league,” she said.

CEO of the OUter East Football and Netball League, Mr Simon Connell said he acknowledged the process of representing women in football is a process.

“It’s a journey we go on. Every day, we want to improve how we represent our female community, which is continuing to grow,” he said.

More on page 7

Little voices, loud futures

By Tanya Steele

Healesville Library and Oonah united to bring a beautiful culture filled storytime and craft session to the Healesville Library to celebrate National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day.

The theme for this year’s celebration was ‘Little Voices, Loud Futures’ and over 40 families came together for stories, songs, crafts and snacks.

Lea Jones, staff facilitator and playgroup coordinator at Oonah said it was a great day.

“It is a great turnout and we have bought along some goodies for the kids as well,” she said.

Nikki Madgewick, a Proud Worimi Biripi woman, along with others read a few stories to the children, including “The way Bunjil flies” which is a Dreaming story written by the late Elder Aunty Dot.

More on Page 12

From Left: Micah and Lloyd with their finished platypus. Picture: TANYA STEELE

Council gets a slap

By Mikayla van Loon

Yarra Ranges Council has been slapped with eight fines from Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) for not keeping powerlines clear of tree overgrowth.

Inspections by the authority found Upwey, Kilsyth, Lilydale and Healesville to each have line clearance breaches in bushfire prone areas in February.

The council’s infringements total $36,984, noted by ESV as the most a Victorian council has been handed since it was granted the ability to issue fines under the Electricity Safety Act 1998 in June 2022.

Yarra Ranges Council CEO Tammi Rose said pruning “has always been, and remains, a priority” but weather conditions last year led to high regrowth.

“Wet weather conditions last year resulted in significant regrowth on many of the trees we have near power lines – in some cases, growth of up to three metres,” she said.

The misjudgement of the height of the trees during the inspection period meant the eight trees did not meet the requirements under the Code of Practice for Electric Line Clearance.

“We were issued with eight work orders and a fine for this, which we promptly actioned –all eight trees now meet the code, and we’ll be working to ensure this does not happen again,” Ms Rose said.

ESV has issued a total of 36 line clearance fines to various councils and major electricity companies in the 12 months since the powers were granted.

Energy Safe CEO Leanne Hughson said in this instance, Yarra Ranges Council’s lines clearance performance was unacceptable.

“It’s the responsibility of councils to ensure trees and vegetation in their jurisdictions are

kept safely clear of the powerline network,” Ms Hughson said.

Ms Rose said with such a large scope of trees that fall within bushfire risk areas, Yarra Ranges Council is committed to ensuring the safety of everyone.

“The council works closely with a contractor to manage the pruning of trees around our region, to ensure electrical line clearance and safety for our community members,” she said.

“We manage in excess of 20,000 trees for line clearance every year, with priority areas in central Healesville, the urban areas of Lilydale, Chirnside Park, Mooroolbark and Kilsyth, and the southern Dandenongs, including Belgrave,

Belgrave South, Belgrave Heights, Upwey and Tecoma.

“Safety around power lines is critical for everyone in the community – whether you’re a community member, a contractor working nearby or a Council keeping nearby trees pruned back.”

The imposing of fines has added another layer of ensuring councils and electricity companies comply with the codes, with other measures including warnings and legal action.

When deciding whether to take enforcement action, ESV considers various factors, including the severity of the non-compliance and the responsible person’s conduct.

Labour hire company taken to court

The Labour Hire Authority (LHA) has commenced legal action in the Supreme Court of Victoria against a company that allegedly provided workers to farms in the Yarra Valley and Kooweerup.

LHA alleges that Monorom Labours Power Pty Ltd failed to notify the regulator of multiple changes in directors, and that one director was not a fit and proper person to operate a labour hire company.

Breaches alleged in the case carry penalties exceeding $600,000 for a company and $150,000 for an individual, under the state’s Labour Hire Licensing Act 2018.

The regulator is seeking individual penalties against two directors – Saravong Tath and Visal Leab – as well as penalties against the company.

It is alleged that Tath was a director of two companies placed into administration in the previous five years, meaning he was not a fit and proper person to be a director of a la-

bour hire provider under the Act.

The company also allegedly made numerous changes in directors and secretaries over a six-month period in 2022, without notifying LHA – a further contravention of the Act.

Labour Hire Licensing Commissioner, Steve Dargavel said enforcing accordance with this practice is vital for workers.

“Ensuring we have fit and proper people running Victorian labour hire companies is an important way of protecting workers and improving the industry’s integrity.”

“Labour hire workers in the horticulture industry are among Victoria’s most vulnerable, so the industry is a key focus for our expanded compliance and enforcement program.”

The legal action is part of an LHA compliance and enforcement program targeting high-impact harms to workers, and industries including horticulture, meat processing, commercial cleaning and security.

This year, all Australians will be invited to make history by saying ‘yes’ in a compulsory referendum to alter Australia’s Constitution by enshrining an Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

The Constitution is the founding legal document of our nation, providing the basic rules for the government of Australia. The Constitution is our nation’s birth certificate.

Over many years we have spent a lot trying to improve the lives of Indigenous Australians, but we haven’t got better results.

If the referendum succeeds, the Voice to Parliament means Indigenous Australians will be consulted and give advice to Government

Recent LHA actions in Victoria’s horticulture industry include:

· A successful prosecution in December 2022 against a horticulture company and its director, resulting in the largest ever total penalty for breaches of labour hire law in Australian history.

· Proceedings filed in the Supreme Court of Victoria in May 2023, alleging an unlicensed company provided workers to pick fruit and vegetables in severalVictorian regions.

· A case filed in the Supreme Court of Victoria in July 2023, alleging a company sourced workers through unlicensed labour hire providers for orchards in the Cobram area.

· A range of licensing actions against labour hire businesses operating in regional Victoria.

The Labour Hire Authority oversees Victoria’s labour hire licensing scheme, which was introduced following findings of widespread exploitation and unlawful activity in the industry.

to design better solutions for issues that affect them.

This will lead to better outcomes for Indigenous Australians in health, employment, and education – because we know when Government listens to people, we get results.

For most of us, saying ‘yes’ won’t change much. But for Indigenous Australians the Voice will bring about tangible change. There is nothing to lose, but so much to be gained.

Hunting accident in Kinglake

A man has been taken to hospital following a hunting accident in Kinglake on Saturday 5 August.

Police said that the man had been hunting with friends at a property on Extons Road when a firearm went off accidentally, about 8.30pm.

The 47-year-old sustained non-life-threatening injuries and no one else was injured.

Anyone with information is urged to Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online to www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

RBA holds rates

The Reserve Bank might have reached the pinnacle of its interest rate hiking cycle following a decision to keep the cash rate on hold for the second consecutive month.

The central bank has left the door open to more interest rate hikes, but many economists believe the chance of more tightening is starting to wane based on a more dovish tone from the Reserve Bank governor.

Leading up to the decision on Tuesday, experts were split on which way it would go, while markets were largely convinced the RBA would stay on hold.

The two months holding steady at 4.1 per cent follows four percentage points of increases, which have been heaping pressure on borrowers in a bid to dampen demand and help bring down inflation.

Consumer price increases have started to slow, with inflation rising six per cent annually through to June, down from seven per cent in March.

Yarra Ranges red bin lids

Yarra Ranges Council has taken to social media on Thursday 3 August to reassure residents across the Yarra Ranges that the rubbish bin changes are still in process.

TheYarra Ranges Council said that they understand that some homes have not had their rubbish bin lid changed to red yet and asked people not to be concerned as lids would be changed in the coming weeks.

Residents have been asked to not phone in and present their rubbish bins on their normal collection day.

Free RAT tests

Free Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) are now available for community members to collect at Yarra Ranges Council community links. Community links in the Dandenong Ranges are located at the Monbulk Living and Learning Centre and on Upwey’s Main Street. There are also community links in Healesville, Lilydale and Yarra Junction.

Unclaimed Yarra Ranges funds

The Yarra Ranges has $2 million waiting to be claimed from the The State Revenue Office (SRO).

The state’s unclaimed money has topped $109 million, with the majority of entitlements being held by the SRO for less than 10 years. The largest single entitlement in the Yarra Ranges municipality is in the suburb of Olinda - sitting at $23,789.

Yarra Ranges Council has been fined for not keeping powerlines clear from trees. Picture: ON FILE

Deborah Bogenhuber

Food Next Door

Mildura, The Murray

The spirit of the Murray River is in the food we eat. At Food Next Door, we match migrant farmers to land and create ‘Out of the Box’ fresh produce boxes that supply our local cafes, restaurants and the community. It’s a beautiful cycle that brings everyone together and visitors to Mildura can enjoy our culture of creativity and inclusivity.

Few movers in outer-east

By Mikayla van Loon

Several suburbs across the Yarra Ranges have been identified as being ‘under-listed’ in Australia’s property market with fewer houses going under the hammer for June-July.

Making the top 20 nationally in Henderson Advocacy’s analysis were Wandin-Seville, ranking number four, and Belgrave-Selby coming in at 12.

In Melbourne, Wandin-Seville and Belgrave-Selby took out the top two spots, with Mount Evelyn and Emerald-Cockatoo also making the list.

Analysing suburb groups in the Statistical Areas Level 2 (SA2s), Henderson Advocacy found property listings to be well below the estimates.

Based on a typical annual property turnover rate of five per cent, the buyers agency calculated that 0.7692 per cent of the housing stock should typically appear on the market within an eight-week timeframe.

In Wandin-Seville for instance, which encompassesWandin North, Gruyere, and Seville East, there were five new listings for the JuneJuly period, making up just 0.2 per cent of the 2,647 occupied dwellings.

Henderson Advocacy CEO Jack Henderson said this trend is not just a statistical observation, but a real-world challenge for homebuyers in Australia.

“Our research reveals that the top 20 locations are showing about one-third of the listings we would expect to have counted in the last eight weeks,” he said.

For local agents however, the reason these areas are perhaps less stock heavy is primarily because of lifestyle.

Integrity Real Estate agent Jane Nunn said given the land sizes in theWandin-Seville area, there isn’t as much stock to begin with and people keep property for longer.

“Wandin and Gruyere are areas where people tend to hold on to the land. So they’re not areas that tend to do a lot of transactions normally,” she said.

“Seville is changing a little bit because the shopping infrastructure has gone in there and some development has gone into there. But again, it’s just not an overly active area compared to say Healesville or Yarra Junction for example.”

Chandler and Co managing director Glenn Chandler said the Dandenong Ranges region, particularly Belgrave, is one of the most tightly held by property owners.

“People move here because of the lifestyle. They perhaps don’t have the same intensities as living in urban suburbs,” he said.

“When people move in, they don’t move out and that is a testament to the area.”

Another factor Mr Chandler said that has contributed to less houses appearing on the market in the Belgrave-Selby area is the weather.

“This year in particular, it has been quite a cold winter, so people don’t tend to put their houses on the market,” he said.

Ranges First National director Mick Dol-

phin said while the agency doesn’t track suburb by suburb sales, they have seen a drop across the board.

“I would say there’s 25 to 30 per cent less than normal and that’s across 16 postcodes from Tecoma to Mount Dandenong to Cockatoo,” he said.

Mr Dolphin said a typical week would see 25 houses listed for sale but it’s currently sitting at 10 to 15 per week, a trend he and his team have been noticing for six to 12 months.

Between April last year and February this year, Mr Dolphin said there was a 10 per cent drop in the market but that is now improving. With interest rates rising over the last year, Mr Dolphin said it has seen people hold onto the security of their properties.

“When there’s uncertainty in the world people usually bunker down,” he said.

Mr Chandler said suburbs like Upwey and central Belgrave are continuing to sell well because of the proximity to train stations.

For areas like Emerald-Cockatoo, which takes in Beaconsfield Upper, Gembrook, Avonsleigh and Pakenham Upper, the Henderson Advocacy report showed 24 properties were put on the market in June-July, making it 0.4 per cent of the 6030 occupied dwellings.

Mr Dolphin said he too is seeing that the Cockatoo area is “picking up” in market listings.

Across the property market, there is hope the next few months will deliver more listings and sales in the region.

“We certainly had an influx of buyers and sales over the Covid period and they slowed down over the last 12 months,” Ms Nunn said.

“We’ve found literally in the last three or so weeks, there’s a lot more activity happening and with the activity once you get new listings then new buyers come into the area so it self generates itself into creating that more active market but we certainly can feel the difference at the moment.”

Similarly, Mr Dolphin said “the last two months have been quite good” with days on the market returning to a standard two to four weeks after late last year’s spike of 75 to 90 days.

“People would still be thinking the market is depressed, it’s not, it’s actually quite a good time to sell,” he said.

Suburbs across the outer east have been ranked as under-listed in the property market.

Picture: ON FILE

Four-day phone pain

The Yarra Junction Telstra mobile base will be in full shutdown for four days as part of upgrades from the company from Tuesday 8 August through to Friday 11 August and landlines will not be affected.

During this period, there will be no Telstra mobile technology operating.

Regional General Manager for Telstra Jenny Gray, said that the company understands that there is never a good time for work like this to occur and the the company apologises for any inconvenience this may cause.

“We will be as quick as we can,“ she said.

The upgrade of the Yarra Junction mobile base station is part of a capacity upgrade that will cause temporary disruptions to the community of Yarra Junction.

From the week beginning Monday 7 August, Telstra will begin upgrading its mobile base station to bring improved 4G capacity and new 5G coverage.

Telstra mobile customers have started receiving text messages advising them of the upcoming upgrade.

Landline services, NBN internet services and mobile coverage from other providers will not be impacted.

Any calls to Triple Zero from a Telstra mobile when the site is off air will automatically be diverted to any working mobile network for connection to emergency services.

Ms Gray said that while coverage and capacity will be impacted during this time, we want to keep the amount of time the site is off air to an absolute minimum and give the community as much time as possible to plan for the disruption.

“We must turn the site off for a few days to perform the significant work needed to improve our mobile network in the Yarra Junction area. However, once it is all done, residents should notice an improvement in their service,“ she said.

Please note that the works are intended to improve mobile connectivity in the existing coverage footprint.

For mobile coverage in the interim, if residents have access to a wi-fi signal at home or at work, Telstra encourages residents to activate wi-fi calling.

This is a free setting on most popular mobile phones and allows your mobile to use a Wi-Fi network to make and receive mobile calls. To find out more they can google Telstra Wi-Fi calling or just search in your settings icon on your phone.

Many businesses use the Telstra network for their EFTPOS terminals. However, Telstra does not operate the EFTPOS network; it is operated by financial institutions. Many EFTPOS terminals can also be connected using fixed line or Wi-Fi/NBN internet connections.

Retailers should contact their bank for more information and details on how to switch between these methods to ensure continuous service.

Strugglers offered help

With electricity prices increasing for many Victorian energy consumers from Tuesday 1 August, the Energy and Water Ombudsman inVictoria is urging people to seek help if they are struggling with power bills this winter.

The price rises are in addition to the 1 July increase for over half a million Australian households on standing offers. There are around 2 million Victorian electricity customers on market offers who may be subject to price rises from today.

The Ombudsman, Catherine Wolthuizen, had a particular me ssage for mortgage holders who are coming off fixed interest rates to avoid defaulting on their energy bills.

The roll out of improved connectivity in Yarra Junction means customers with Telstra mobile services and devices will be able to enjoy a better mobile experience.

“We are continuing to expand our mobile network across regional Victoria and nationally we are adding new sites to the network every week. Works such as these continue to demonstrate Telstra’s ongoing commitment to regional Australia,” Ms Gray said.

Once completed, Yarra Junction will join more than 4,200 Telstra 5G sites on-air within selected areas of more than four hundred cities and towns across Australia.

Eighty per cent of all Australians now having the ability to access to the Telstra 5G network where they live.

For customers wishing to access 5G on the Telstra network, they will need a 5G capable device and have a Telstra 5G phone plan, so for some people, that may mean upgrading their current device.

Millions of dollars waiting to be claimed

One Yarra Ranges resident in Olinda could be $23,000 richer if they claim their entitlements currently sitting in the The State Revenue Office (SRO).

Victorians have been encouraged to go online to find out if they are among thousands of people with a claim on a pool of unclaimed money topping $109 million. The SRO holds records of money that remain unclaimed after 12 months including refunds, rents and bonds, share dividends, salaries and wages, debentures, interest and proceeds from sales.

The majority of entitlements have been held by the SRO for less than 10 years.

The largest single entitlement in the Yarra Ranges municipality is in the suburb of Olinda - sitting at $23,789. There is $2 million in total waiting to be claimed in the Yarra Ranges - the second highest amount in regional Victoria behind the Mornington Peninsula.

There are 17,172 outstanding entitlements in the municipality.

Across the state, there are some 678,000 entitlements waiting to be claimed.

Treasurer Tim Pallas said he encourages Victorians to go online and conduct a search.

“This is money that belongs to citizens and we want it in their hands,” Mr Pallas said.

“If the SRO is holding unclaimed money in

your name you’ll know within seconds, and the process for recovery is straight forward.”

To search for unclaimed money, visit sro. vic.gov.au/unclaimedmoney. You will need your name or company name, and the address that you believe the unclaimed money lodging organisation would have had on file.

In addition to unclaimed money, the SRO also holds all Tattersalls, Intralot and Tabcorp prizes, as well as TAB winnings, that have remained unclaimed for six months or more.

The highest unclaimed gaming entitlement is $2,136,327 from Tattersalls which was received in March 2016.To claim these winnings, you must supply your original ticket.

All Victorian businesses and trustees holding $20 or more in unclaimed money are reminded they must record and keep the money for at least 12 months, then lodge it with the SRO.

Lodgements can be made via the SRO website.

“There are up to 900,000 Australian households coming off fixed interest rates at the same time as electricity prices are increasing, and during winter,” Ms Wolthuizen said. “If these households put off paying their energy and water bills, they could put their credit rating at risk, impacting their ability to refinance their mortgage or switch lender when their interest rates suddenly and steeply rise,“ she said.

Ms Wolthuizen said that they are seeing more people put off paying energy and water bills to cover rising housing costs, and they are risking their personal credit rating or even disconnection.

“Many people don’t realise that there are options available to them so they don’t have to risk their financial security or ration energy use over winter,“ she said. “Most energy cnsumers in Victoria who need help will be entitled to tailored assistance, like a payment plan based on what they can pay on a regular basis. Energy providers are required to regularly advise consumers about their ‘best offer’. Consumers should also check out their latest energy bill or call their provider and switch to the best plan.”

Further actions that people can take include:

· Applying for the Victorian Government’s Utility Relief Grant Scheme and the Energy Bill Relief payment which applies directly to eligible bills from 1 July. More information is available at www.energy.vic.gov.au

· Accessing the latest round of the $250 Power Saving Bonus before it ends on 31 August by visiting Victorian Energy Compare at www.compare.energy.vic. gov.au

· Contacting your provider with complaints about energy and water bills. If you still need help, contact the Energy and Water Ombudsman Victoria on 1800 500 509 and at www.ewov.com.au

There is $2 million waiting to be claimed in the Yarra Ranges. Picture: JOSHUA HOEHNE, UNSPLASH

Once completed,Yarra Junction will join more than 4200 Telstra 5G sites. Picture: UNSPLASH

To be seen and

By Tanya Steele

Poor social media presence in women’s football has been brought to the forefront while the final games are currently being played out in Outer East Women’s Football finals.

The CEO of the Outer League Football and Netball was contacted by a player unhappy with how the league has been managing the social media presence of the women’s football team.

Seville club player Jamee Cousens said she wants to feel equal, not just a minority when she is represented online.

“I feel like while the league has made a place for women, they haven’t celebrated them,” she said.

The Outer East Facebook page also had a number of complaints posted online on the weekend of 29 and 30 July about a noticeable lack of scoreboards being posted for the women’s games.

Ms Cousens emailed the CEO directly on Sunday 30 July and said that it’s not just local people, it’s people from outside the teams who have noticed.

CEO of the Outer East FNL Brett Connell said in response the league have a third party that provides social media for them which is under contract.

“Most of the women’s footy falls outside the time where they [the third party] finish up,” he said.

Mr Connell said the social media issue had been raised prior to the recent public scrutiny by the Women’s Advisory Group that he and other members of the league is a part of.

“We could have been on this in a more timely manner, but we have addressed it now,” he said.

The Outer East released a two-page statement on Wednesday 2 August addressing the issue.

“...While some Women’s matches are completed earlier in the day the majority are completed after the cut-off time we have contracted with our partner, which does not allow for us to provide this service across our Women’s competition currently…”

Mornington Peninsula Football and Netball Club Women’s director Harvey White has also observed the Outer East FNL’s lack of posts covering the women’s sport.

“I met Jamee online because I was actively looking for pages that support women’s football,” he said.

MrWhite said balanced representation also relies on the clubs themselves promoting and sending into the outer league.

“You’ll then see more representation by them at the league level because they’re sending that information in,” he said.

Mr White said that at the club in Mornington, they have really tried to “build a program that gives women every opportunity that men’s football has.”

“It’s a relatively new thing but as long as you stay positive, it will build,” he said.

The Outer East FNL has received prior contact in 2020 from Ms Cousens regarding social

media and representation for women - when she had previously played for Yarra Junction.

Ms Cousens said at the time she highlighted to the league that season reviews were not balanced - a fact which was particularly noticeable in the year 2020 when the Yarra Junction Women’s team performed really well and made it to the grand final.

“There was the season review which was this huge lengthy article and we only had one sentence dedicated to our team,” Ms Cousens said.

Community members and family have also recently told Ms Cousens that if they didn’t already know that the women’s teams were present in the league, they wouldn’t know they were there based on the social media presence they have.

“There are 12 women teams and if you go through their Facebook page there is very little mention of that,” she said.

“They’ll do a team of the week, and they’ll pick out players or men’s players and netball players across the whole division and create the team of the week and the women’s football

is never getting anything like that.”

Other sporting leagues in Victoria have not appeared to have the same gap in presentation, many with a dedicated social media presence for women.

“Our neighbouring league, the Eastern Football Netball League, it is unreal the difference, they post their ladders,” Ms Cousens said.

“It is completely different and it seems incredibly inclusive. Everyone is portrayed as equal and it is what I would expect from our league.”

Mr Connell said he acknowledged the process of representing women in football is a process.

“It’s a journey we go on. Every day, we want to improve how we represent our female community, which is continuing to grow,” he said.

Ms Cousens said that the players just want to be fairly represented by the club and that with all the progress that has been made, there is still work to be done.

“If people know there are local women’s

teams around, more people can get involved,” she said.

The Outer East FNL has stated it would cover the upcoming finals and rectify the issue in the coming year.

“Outer East Football and Netball acknowledge that the recognition, display and distribution of Women’s results have not been to an acceptable standard in 2023. We apologise for this and commit to making improvements across ourWomen’s finals and for the 2024 season to rectify this important matter.

Equal participation and representation across all levels of community football is one of the key aims by the AFL outlined in its ‘Women’s Football Vision for 2021 - 2030’ document and social media is an important part of that representation.

Ms Cousens said the apology only addressed one part of the social media and representation issue and she would like to see more from the league.

“With how far we’ve come. It just doesn’t seem fitting that we are where we are,” she said.

Jamee Cousens was captain of the Yarra Junction women’s team in 2021.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Horse deaths not linked to a disease

Agriculture Victoria has confirmed that recent sudden multiple horse deaths are not linked or the result of an infectious disease.

The department released a statement online on 2 August, giving horse owners some relief concerning the recent multiple horse deaths throughout Victoria.

Anita Prowse of the Upper Yarra Pony Club has welcomed the news.

“It’s fantastic that it isn’t an infectious disease,” she said

“The big concern initially was that it could be Hendra or Anthrax.”

Sample testing and necropsies were conducted where possible on deceased animals and found nothing unusual or unexpected as contributing causes.

Ms Prowese said she commended the efforts made towards the investigation.

Native wildlife kills on rise in wetlands

By Tanya Steele

Residents have been discovering injured and killed wildlife in theYarra Glen wetlands in the last few months, with no easy solution in sight.

Resident Vicki Loyd-Smith walked the area recently and said she is concerned that wildlife is regularly being taken by either foxes or cats.

“The foxes are potentially breeding, but I have noticed this year has been particularly rough for the wetlands atYarra Glen,” she said.

“I have found dead bird remains several times this year when I walk my dog around the area,” she said. As an animal lover, resident and wildlife carer Ms Higman finds it quite distressing that the animals are being injured, maimed and killed.

The land itself borders residential homes and is privately owned and managed by the owners of the Yarra Glen shopping area.

Earlier in the year in March Ms Loyd-Smith was walking with young family members and her dog and the group came upon many deceased birds spread around the lake.

The concerns were taken to Yarra Ranges Council via email on 13 March:

“We counted no less than two beautiful ducks and three native black-tailed swamp hens, massacred almost beyond recognition,” Ms Loyd -Smith said.

A representative from DEECA said that landowners are the party responsible to help prevent the spread of and as far as possible remove foxes from their property.

“Landowners can contact Council for information regarding fox control on Council land, and any community-led, cross-tenure pest animal management initiatives that may be happening. Foxes forage around rubbish bins, picnic sites, compost heaps and also feed on fruit and pet food left outside.” they said.

Ms Loyd-Smith wants some awareness about the situation and hopes that something can be done about it.

“These birds are a precious sight at theYarra Glen Wetlands and all the locals adore seeing them, however, to see their body parts strewn around the area was not only sickening and sad for my grandkids, but it broke my heart as well because I am a wildlife rescuer and care deeply for all animals,” she said.

Powerful Owl returns to mountain home

A precious Powerful Owl is back thriving in the mountains after receiving specialised care at Healesville Sanctuary.

The owl was found injured on the roadside by a passer-by in Emerald, south-east of Melbourne, and transported by a Wildlife Victoria carer to Healesville Sanctuary’s Australian Wildlife Health Centre for care.

Healesville Sanctuary veterinary nurse Evie Tochterman said the owl’s injuries suggested it had suffered head trauma.

“One eye had a minor ulcer on the cornea, and it had blood around his mouth and nostrils. But it was otherwise bright and alert,” Ms Tochterman said.

“We provided pain relief and eye ointments to treat the ulcer, as well as basic supportive care, which included feeding and heating.”

Further examinations a week later showed that the eye ulcer had healed and the owl showed promising signs of rehabilitation. Once the Powerful Owl began eating on its own and passed a flight fitness test it returned to its wild home.

Healesville Sanctuary’s Australian Wildlife Health Centre treats approximately 2,000 wildlife patients each year, as well as caring for the resident animals at Healesville Sanctuary.

The hospital gallery space has recently been renovated and will be open to visitors at the end of August.

New features include a vet detective station, the chance to view blood samples and X-rays, a space for reflection following the devastating 2009 Black Saturday bushfires, peep holes to see footage of animals returning to the wild af-

The owl was found injured by a passer by in Emerald.

ter being rehabilitated, a comfy podcast zone and Future Vets play zone.

Powerful Owls are considered Vulnerable in Victoria and listed as Threatened under the

to contact Wildlife Victoria.

“They did a good job and did what they needed to do,” she said.

A number of separate diagnoses have been made including intestinal issues in one instance, while there is a possibility of toxic plants present in another.

In some instances, it was not possible to determine a clear cause due to a lack of available suitable samples.

The investigation involved a total of 17 horses that died on six separate properties where multiple deaths were reported.

Negative tests were returned for a wide variety of transmissible diseases such as Hendra virus and equine influenza.

Agriculture Victoria thanked the horse industry, private veterinarians, other experts and horse owners for their assistance during this investigation.

As there are no further concerns about the investigation’s findings, regular arrangements for reporting illness or deaths in horses will be reinstated.

Private veterinarians must be the first point of contact as your horse’s primary health advisor – they are the ones with specific knowledge about your individual situation and best placed to provide assistance and also where to find other assistance if required. .

Agriculture Victoria can support private veterinarians via the Significant Disease Investigation (SDI) program if eligible.

All horse owners should take regular steps towards ensuring the best health of their horses and tailored to the season, including good parasite management and weed control, and providing quality feed and water.

Ms Prowse said she agrees that the regular healthcare of horses should still be a top priority of horse owners.

“With the season we’ve had, people should still be really diligent,” she said.

Horse owners should also register their horses with a Property Identification Code (PIC). It is an important communication and traceability tool used during animal health incidents.

AgricultureVictoria requested in their release that people should be mindful of what they share online, as posting misinformation can cause unnecessary alarm to horse owners.

The investigation concluded with some, but not all questions answered.

Picture: FACEBOOK

Picture: ZOOS VICTORIA

Ms Loyd-Smith loves her local walking area and wants to see the wildlife thriving.

Picture: TANYA STEELE

St John’s offer a welcome

By Mikayla van Loon

Since he was a young boy, Fill Pritchett has been involved in the St John Ambulance Victoria service after following in the footsteps of his family.

Now 33 years later, Fill continues to play a vital role in the Yarra Ranges division as a Deployment and Readiness Regional Officer.

Using his experience and knowledge, Fill is encouraging other people across the shire to join the ranks and volunteer.

Beginning to volunteer with St John at just eight-years-old, Fill said it all began by just tagging along with his mum.

“I used to go along with mum and was interested in it and the joining age was eight back then so I was allowed to join as a junior cadet,” he said.

With his grandfather, siblings and mother all involved in some capacity over the years, a deep sense of duty to give back to the community was instilled in Fill.

From what used to be primarily a first aid service, Fill said St John has changed to being a major support to Ambulance Victoria paramedics.

“There’s been a huge change over the years. I’ve watched the introduction of defibs into St John, and outside of the ambulance service, basically. They were the holy grail when we first got them, no one was allowed to touch them unless you were highly trained,” he said.

“Even now we’ve gone from just being everyone’s first aiders, l we’ve got all different levels of scope now. So first aiders, first responders, advanced responders, and then healthcare professionals within the organisation.”

Fill said aside from the equipment St John now has access to, the responders are also more highly trained in providing medications

“It used to be that we had Panadol and that was it. Now, we’ve seen the introduction of methoxyflurane, which is the green whistle and then from that we’ve gone to GTN, which is a cardiac drug, adrenaline for anaphylaxis…It has really changed over the years.”

Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Fill said St John Ambulance was relied heavily on to reach patients and staff the state’s overrun emergency ambulance service.

“We’ve seen a huge reliance on StJohn over Covid times. So we actually had St John volunteers drive ambulances so they could get enough ambulances on the road.

“We’d have a St John volunteer with an AV paramedic and that would be the crew and they’d be on normal jobs for Ambulance Victoria.”

Day to day St John Ambulance volunteers provide services at large community events and particularly in times of emergency, whether it be fires or floods.

Local festivals and sporting events have been a major focus of Fill’s throughout his time with the ambulance service, taking on extra duties to coordinate other volunteers.

“I’ve had a huge focus on that personally. So I’ve been involved with looking after Rochford Winery for the last 20 years. I’m actually the St John venue manager out there now.”

With the new regional role in deployment and readiness, Fill said it involves looking “after all of our assets for deployment, whether it’s planned or unplanned, so whether it’s a local concert, or whether it fires and floods”.

Having been involved in a number of emergency events, Fill said he’s always loved being able to support people in their time of need.

“I love being involved with the emergency deployment with the fires and floods and stuff like that. It’s unpredictable.

“It’s trying to get people out and assist where people have lost houses or been displaced from houses, or whether it’s helping the firefighters come back off the fire ground, that’s always been a huge interest of mine.”

With 12 active members in the Yarra Ranges division of St John Ambulance, Fill said the pandemic did have an impact on volunteer numbers but with demand for their service being so high they are currently recruiting volunteers to increase the number to 20 members.

Currently the team has three other longstanding volunteers in Tom Clarke, Diane Dickson, and Gerard Guerin making up 115 years experience in total.

No prior experience is required, with all the training being supported by St John.

“If you sign up for St John, they’ll cover your initial first aid courses and then all the training is done before you go to an event, you’re got all your first aid training.

“You get supervised through a process of different training modules and that’ll be done over a six month period. At the end of that, you’ll be a first responder with a full first responder scope of practice.

“It’s a great community environment, it’s

great to give something back to the local community and to get the skills that you get along the way, it’s just an added bonus. It’s life sav-

ing skills that you won’t get anywhere else.”

To register your interest, go to www.stjohnvic.com.au/volunteer-form/

Fill Pritchett and Governor of Victoria Linda Dessau at the service medal ceremony at Government House.

Picture: SUPPLIED

At-home support on offer SENIOR

Healesville local nurse Chris Dawson and his team are bringing a new locally run Home Care nursing practice to the Yarra Valley.

Like most city dwellers, I used to come to the Sanctuary as a kid and loved it. My partner’s family have been in theYarraValley for 150 years, and thought it was a great place to raise kids, with the mountains at your doorstep and a wholesome country lifestyle, so we moved back five years ago with our twins, who love it here, such a friendly and close-knit neighbourhood. Apparently we’re now called returned settlers.

I have worked across multiple disciplines within the private and public sector, including district nursing, aged care, general practice, orthopaedics, plastic surgery, and even worked for AmbulanceVictoria as a first responder.

Several years ago, a former Manager approached me and asked me to make the move from the hospital sector to community nursing, I soon realised this is where my passion lay. I really liked the social connection that evolves over time when caring for clients in their homes, rather than the churn of the hospital, which I found to be mostly short-term and primarily task based. In the home environment, you really get to know the person and develop relationships which make for an enjoyable experience all round.

I had a private client with advanced Parkinson’s, whose wife was primary carer and would often require respite for herself, taking three to four day stints. I would come in and look after him on a 24/7 basis, cook, clean and even garden, we would do trips to the movies, breakfast with his family, we all got along very well. Unfortunately he passed away recently, but the family have stayed in touch and even engage me to house sit their pets.

No two days are the same and it’s a growing sector, which makes sense given most older

Australians want to remain living in their own homes should they ever need support or care, only 25 per cent say they would prefer to enter a nursing home. I’ve had the privilege of providing end of life care for people I knew.

In the regional settings, it’s not always as easy to get in-home support on a private basis, I experienced this in a more remote farming district I worked in, there just weren’t the resources available to assist farmers with staying in their own homes. Often in the local hospitals, everyone knows everyone, so the home can offer a more private and discrete option during difficult and vulnerable times.

Locally Owned and Run

We are fortunate to have an amazing local hospital facility in the heart of town. Unfortunately, district nursing isn’t always available for us at the times we want it, like after hours or at short notice. I’m wanting to offer a service where our clients set the terms, Yarra Nursing are able to fill any gaps and ensure locals are able to access healthcare as and when they want it. We cover loads of activities from dayto-day services like shopping, companionship and personal care to more nursing and medical focused tasks such as dressings, medication management and more complex health needs.

We launched this month and are gradually building up a pipeline of regular clients in the YarraValley and outer Melbourne and have just onboarded a team of local carers and qualified nurses (both RN and EN).

Our rates are competitive and in line with government pricing caps. We service all demographics, from children to the elderly and offer payment support through NDIS and Home Care Packages, as well as privately funded clients who just want to pay as they go.

Being an owner operator, there is no protracted onboarding process, no referrals needed, I can get you immediate support.

Visiting people at home is as much about medical care as it is about connection.

SENIOR LIVING

50,000 toasties for teens

By Tanya Steele

High school students recently munched their way into a toasted sandwich milestone 15 years in the making.

The breakfast club at Healesville Highschool celebrated the milestone of 50,000 ‘toasties’ delivered on Wednesday 2 August.

Kerry Davies is one of the volunteers who has been with the club since its inception and said it runs with the help of a united group force of education support staff.

“It’s been really good, the kids look forward to it, they know it’s on,” she said.

“We meet every Wednesday and get the sandwich presses going, it is fully funded by the school.”

Student Archie received the ‘gold star’ toastie amid a shower of gold confetti and a gift voucher to celebrate the hot and cheesy breakfast celebration.

The breakfast club operates in collaboration with the school nurse Claire who picks up bread from Bakers Delight in Chirnside Park and the economics department which provides the essential cheese and serviettes.

The students have told Ms Davies the club is good if they forget breakfast and some cheekily confessed it was good even if they hadn’t.

Student Marley looks forward to getting a little extra sleep on Wednesdays.

Ms Davies said the operation is well oiled

and said that she always asks the students to say please when they get their breakfast.

The club began in 2008 and was started

Little voices, loud futures

By Tanya Steele

The hopes, achievements and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children were celebrated nationwide Friday 4 August.

Healesville Library and Oonah united to bring a beautiful culture filled storytime and craft session to the Healesville Library to celebrate National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day.

The theme for this year’s celebration was ‘Little Voices, Loud Futures’ and over 40 families came together for stories, songs, crafts and snacks.

Lea Jones, staff facilitator and playgroup coordinator at Oonah said it was a great day and celebrated the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in the community.

“It is a great turnout and we have bought along some goodies for the kids as well,” she said.

Nikki Madgewick, a Proud Worimi Biripi woman, along with others read a few stories to the children, including “The way Bunjil flies” which is a Dreaming story written by the late Elder Aunty Dot.

Proud Wurundjeri woman, Kayla Wandincollins also led the kids in language to a few songs when kids began to get the wriggles during storytime.

“It’s very important for us to learn the local language,” Ms Jones said.

“We incorporate culture into our experiences and Kayla’s been really good. She teaches a lot of songs and language at our playgroup,” she said.

Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care (SNAICC) Chairperson Muriel Bamblet said this year’s theme emphasised the importance of, listening to children’s aspirations, hopes and dreams.

“Our call for the future is for our children to be proud of their heritage, be empowered and strengthened by their culture to speak their truth, to have a say on matters important to them and in the decisions that impact their lives,” she said.

Rose Herring, the Healesville Children’s Services officer said the kids really enjoyed the music.

I couldn’t quite keep up for the Woi wurrung version of heads, shoulders, knees and toes,” she said.

Ms Herring said the library and Oonah have been planning for the day since the beginning of the year and were very pleased

Eddie was dedicated to finishing his platypus. Picture: TANYA STEELE

by the huge turnout of children and families.

“We really want the library to be an inclusive and welcoming place for all,” she said.

(SNAICC) CEO Catherine Liddle said the growing popularity of National Aboriginal and Islanders Children’s Day demonstrated the importance families and educators place on including cultural perspectives in early years education and care.

“It’s wonderful to see so many early years centres, schools and children’s services embracing the chance to celebrate and learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and the central role it plays in the lives of our children,” Ms Liddle said.

The morning tea served up a fusion of lemon myrtle scones, vegemite sandwiches and an assortment of fruit that disappeared rapidly.

Many of the young crafters were too focused on their work to make time to eat, instead finishing up their platypus and fish animal creations.

“The culture of this area and the country that we’re working on is such a beautiful place and it is incredible to learn about it,” Ms Herring said.

Oonah will also display creative art pieces from their youth group along with some artefacts in the Healesville Libary display cabinet for the month of August.

by Lyn Schotchmoor who is theWellbeing Coordinator.

“She thought there was a lot of need to give

the kids a regular breakfast and she put a call out, I said yes,” she said.

No two weeks are the same at the Breakfast Club and Ms Davies said that the trade school students are also known to pop in.

“It’s been successful, we based the 50,000 off around 100 sandwiches per session,” she said.

“We have a bit of fun.”

Ms Davies said the connections between the club volunteers and the students make the whole experience incredibly worthwhile.

“One of our staff who has since gone to work at Oonah still comes every Wednesday to do the club with us,” she said.

The students who use the service regularly appreciate the warm and delicious start to their school day.

Two of the year 12 students, twin sisters Liana and Felicity have been using the service the whole time they have been at the high school.

“I remember the day when they started to say thank you,” Ms Davies said.

Ms Davies has a reputation for saying “Where’s your manners ?” at the school and has been given the ‘Where’s your manners ‘ award by the students in the past.

The volunteers put on a cheese or cheese tomato option along with a milo and the club has created a hearty meal option along with a lot of heart behind it for the students.

“I’ll be doing this forever,” Ms Davies said.

Library celebrates its 30th

By Tanya Steele

Yarra Junction Library recently celebrated a stellar 30 years with their community over cake, cookies and a cup of tea or two.

The community gathered together on Tuesday 25 July to celebrate the milestone of the library being built amidst some tasty treats and a chat over tea.

Rachael Falls, the library Children’s Services Offiver said the morning had a great turnout of around 40 community members

“It went really well, we had a lot of people and our storytime group was there as well,” she said.

“It was 30 years since the library was first built.”

The U3A provided a delicious cake enjoyed by all and a large tray of cookies was also brought along.

“Everyone enjoyed it, it was very well received,” Ms Falls said.

A board was on display with some clippings and memories from community members that have been accessing the library since it opened - presenting memories and moments from the branch’s history.

“In the lead up to it we had people write their memories and what they enjoy about the library because we do have quite a few people who have been coming since we opened,” Ms Falls said.

One library patron wrote the following:

“A place to make life long friends...with carefully, thought-provoking movies and MUCH MORE, Happy Birthday!”

The library was originally opened to the public to a crowd of over 200 and opened for business on 2 August 1993 - making it the ninth static branch library in the Eastern regional service to open at the time.

Ms Falls is one of the newest staff at the library and said she really loves the sense of community and connection that the Yarra Junction branch has.

“We notice that people that people really love the sense of connection here because of the tight knit community we are,” she said.

The library has evolved over its 30 years and Ms Falls said the services that the staff provide have a much wider range compared to when they began, partly due to the changes in technology.

“We do so much now, everything from story time to help with technology, the other day I assisted someone to print directions for a trip into the city,” she said.

“There’s such a wide range of enquiries from local history, it isn’t just about the books.”

The library will continue to deliver services to Yarra Junction and staff enjoy the way people know each by name.

“People have been coming for years and years and know they are always welcome here,” Ms Falls said.

Yarra Junction staff cut the cake - Melissa, Rachael, Stephanie and Judy. Picture: SUPPLIED

Danny, Nella, Kerry and Nat run the club at the school every Wednesday. Picture: SUPPLIED

Council seeking young people for committee

Young people inYarra Ranges are being asked to put their hands up to help pitch, organise and lead arts and cultural based events in the region.

FReeZA is funded by Engage!, a Victorian Government initiative that gives young Victorians the opportunity to lead the planning and staging of events that are safe and secure and accessible, while being drug, alcohol and smoke-free.

The Freeza committee, made up of young people aged 14 to 25, meets fortnightly to brainstorm and organise youth-led events across Yarra Ranges.

Committee member, Miranda, said previous Freeza events included a Baker Boy concert, a Queer Formal, and the Celebrating YOUth event, which acknowledged community contributions and achievements of local young people.

“Personally, I joined to enhance my teamwork and event curation skills, as well as explore music opportunities. I’ve experienced

all three multiple times already!” Miranda said.

“The best part is that it’s flexible. You can attend meetings, in person or online, whenever you can, or even just help during events.

“FReeZA also offers workshop opportunities in different areas of interest, such as first aid, tech and even stage production!”

“There’s no pressure, and we welcome anyone and everyone with open arms. It’s a fantastic way to socialise, meet like-minded people and find opportunities for personal and future growth – I highly recommend joining!”

The committee meets fortnightly on a Tuesday between 5pm and 7pm, online or in person.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Jim Child, encouraged parents to talk to their teenagers about getting involved.

“We know that young people getting involved in committees like these gives them incredibly valuable leadership skills and a strong connection to their community,“ Cr Child said.

“But initiatives like FReeZA also provide a way to socialise with other young people and develops the trust and power to create the kind of events they’d like to see locally – a rare opportunity.

“These events benefit so many in the community – helping young people make social connections, enjoy music, art or culture close-to-home, find a sense of belonging or ignite a passion on a topic that will follow them through their lives.“

Cr Child said the committee has a long history of putting on “fantastic, engaging“ events locally, from battle of the bands to concerts and stalls at community festivals.

“They’re supported by our excellent staff and gain friendship, leadership and have fun along the way,“ he said.

“If this sounds like something you – or your children – would be interested in, please get in touch.”

For more information please call or text Nikita on 0482 607 681 or email youth@yarraranges.vic.gov.au

Rights at aged-care forum

By Tanya Steele

The process of ageing and elder rights can be a complex landscape and a Healesville community centre hopes to shed some light on the process with free information forum and lunch.

The Healesville Living and Learning Centre (HLLC) will host a ‘My Aged Care’ forum on 16 August to share information and resources with the community.

Keynote speakers from several groups will be present to guide the audience through a variety of topics and services surrounding the My Aged Care system and Elder Abuse.

Shona Rimmer, the community development coordinator from HLLC said the event will feature a lot of vital information to assist prepare people in their retirement years.

“My Aged Care is the government program that delivers support for older people and it’s a great program,” she said.

Members from Elder Rights Advocacy, Eastern Community Legal and Eastern Health will be present at the forum.

“We find we get a lot of people asking for assistance here at the centre, so this will give them some insight into what is available.” Ms Rimmer said.

A representative from Elder Rights Advocacy said the talk will discuss what the agency does in terms of how they deliver free, confidential and independent advocacy.

“We are independent of all providers, we hold no allegiance to anybody. Our allegiance is the client, we are partisan to the client’s reasonable preferences in relation to what they can expect to receive and what they are legislated to receive,” they said.

“The Elder Rights Advocacy is a founding member of the older persons Advocacy Network, which is a national network of advocacy agencies in all states and territories.”

The session will also discuss the rights of people in aged care and cover topics such as Elder Abuse.

“The legislation is the baseline, so if a provider can provide more, better or greater, how wonderful is that,” the representative said.

The session can deliver vital information to people currently receiving low or level community care or home care packages or people beginning to enter the system for the first time.

The Elder Rights advocacy speaker will also cover legislation around the rights of clients and the serious incident response scheme (SIRS).

“All parties have the right to receive safe and high quality care and services. To be treated with dignity and respect, and to live without abuses and neglect are seen as those rights and whilst we talk to those rights, particularly to live without abuse and neglect,” they said.

“We will also address the serious incident response scheme brought into play by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.”

The session will be held on 16 August at the Darron Honey Centre, the forum is free and lunch is provided.

“Just come along and hear about it, it can really help you understand eligibility and criteria.” Ms Rimmer said.

Bookings are essential.

Theforumwillbeon16AugustattheDarron HoneyCentre. Picture:UNSPLASH

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A tough cycle to break

By Tanya Steele

National Homelessness Week begins from 7 August, with cost of living pressures from rate rises and rental crises still hurting some of Australia’s most vulnerable population.

For those already homeless or on the brink, the situation is dire and no easy solution is on the horizon.

Sheree Laumen, HICCI’s Manager for Emergency Relief said the centre has been expecting a surge but hasn’t been as deeply impacted as inner city areas.

“We’ve been expecting it but I don’t know whether it’s our demographic and Healesville but we’re certainly back to now pre-Covid numbers gone up a little bit, but not hugely, not like a lot of agencies have been closer into the city,” she said.

“There are probably more than what I know of.”

Organisations such as Stable One provide programs like the Yarra Valley Winter Shelter and co-opt locations like churches to assist people with temporary overnight stays.

“It’s a great initiative and it does fill a little bit of a gap, Ms Laumen said.

The program runs through Winter from 1 June – 31 August and local churches work to support men and women experiencing homelessness in the Yarra Valley.

They open their buildings overnight with dinner, dormitory-style sleeping, and breakfast.

A daytime support centre offers lunch, laundry and shower facilities and other opportunities for connection and referrals.

Ms Laumen said that breaking the cycle of homelessness is very challenging without consistent support.

“When a client becomes homeless, they generally have a slow decline in their well-being,” she said.

“Keeping their paperwork together, being well rested without the stress of having a safe place to sleep – all of this can really affect mental and physical health.”

Ms Laumen said people are always welcome to drop in for help with a range of services that most take for granted.

“ A load of washing, a warm meal, a chat or a change of clothes, we can help - just pop in,” she said.

Working together to change the face of homelessness

By Mikayla van Loon

To launch into Homelessness Week with a better and broader view of the current situation, some of the leading organisations and services in theYarra Ranges gathered for a forum on Sunday 6 August.

Hosted at the Tecoma Uniting Church, representatives from Anchor, Holy Fools, Stable One, Soupees, Uniting Ringwood, Orange Sky, Foothills Community Care and Yarra Ranges Council shared data and experiences on what is happening locally in the homelessness space.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Census data indicates there are 30,660 people who are homeless on any given night in Victoria, 24 per cent higher than the previous Census in 2026.

This represents people in all situations denoting homelessness, whether sleeping in a car, on a friend’s couch, in a boarding house or in a tent in a national park.

Holy Fools CEO and founder Neal Taylor said unfortunately in Australia there is not one single and clear definition of homelessness.

“I think that in a country of our size it is ridiculous and I think that we need to do something about that,” he said.

“However, the ABS defines homelessness as someone with the lack of one or more elements that represent home.”

In the Yarra Ranges alone in the 2016 Census, 360 people were identified as being homeless which increased to 755 by 2021.

Wanting to gain a better understanding of homelessness in the Yarra Ranges, Mr Taylor said he would like, with the help of all agencies in the region, conduct a survey.

“The City of Melbourne does street count and I think it would be good to try something like that in the Yarra Ranges,” he said.

“Considering we’re one of the largest local government areas in the state, it’s going to be quite a challenge but I think that’s something that we need to do.”

The reason for this being to potentially improve funding streams with a more accurate picture of how many people are experiencing homelessness.

Funding for these agencies is crucial in getting people the support they need, something Anchor’s youth and homelessness manager Peter Dinsdale touched on.

“During the Covid experience the government put in a lot of money that translated into hotel accommodation and at one point, as small as we are, we had 55 families in local hotels,” he said.

“That really showed the size of the issue. In that year we spent just over a million dol-

lars on hotel accommodation. Our budget this year is $56,000.”

Agreeing with the need for building housing and already seeing the benefits of the $5.3 billion Big Build Project from the State government, Mr Dinsdale said housing doesn’t solve everything.

“Even after the Big Build, Victoria will still have the lowest percentage for Australia when it comes to public and social housing [stock],” he said.

Telling the story of a young man who was sleeping in a tent, Mr Dinsdale said the Rapid Response team from Anchor found him soaking wet from the rain.

“His mental health and his drug and alcohol addiction was so pervasive that he could barely take care of his tent.

“In fact, his feet themselves had become mouldy. We were able to get him into a doctor just to take care of his feet and get him some dry socks, shoes and a new tent, but we couldn’t get him into a house.

“And that’s not actually because of a lack of housing in this case, because if we were to find a unit somewhere to put this young

man, he is not going to survive without the wraparound services.”

Hearing from Stable One managing director Jenny Willetts, Orange Sky Volunteer Ron Iddles and Soupees founder Gavin Smith, it became clear that there was a lot of good work being done in the Yarra Ranges community to support people without a permanent home.

But more so what these services offer is connection without judgement and a sense of feeling less alone.

“We know that loneliness and homelessness go hand in hand. When people come to stay at the winter shelter, they connect with people who care,” Ms Willetts said.

Mr Iddles said aside from washing people’s clothes across 33 different locations in Melbourne, the most important statistic from last year was the “89,000 hours of conversation with our friends”.

For Mr Smith who has been running a community meal in Upwey for over 14 years, it came from a desire to connect in a way he knew was possible for him.

“Soupees is all about serving people and

that is something I’m really keen on. It’s something that I actually think I’m quite good at.

“I can get out there and I can set up a marquee and tables and people will come along and I can talk to them and I can feed them.”

Foothills Community Care CEO Stephen Barrington said for the people who come to a meal either in Ferntree Gully or Upwey might not have sat down for dinner with someone across the table to talk for a long time.

“It might be the only time in the week where they actually get to sit down at a table with someone else, in a safe space and be listened to and to be able to share their story,” Mr Barrington said.

From the forum, the groups, organisations and services agreed “bricks and mortar” is the key element to getting ahead of the homelessness crisis but alongside that, the wraparound services for mental health, domestic violence and financial stress need to improve.

To boost the support these services can offer, volunteers are needed, particularly for Winter Shelter to help see out the final month of giving people a place to sleep.

Orange Sky volunteer Ron Iddles gave a run down of the thousands of hours spent giving people the basic right of clean clothes.

Holy Fools CEO and founder Neal Taylor spoke about the need to improve data collection in the Yarra Ranges.

Pictures: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

Councillor Tim Heenan, Jenny Willetts, Peter Dinsdale, Stephan Barrington, Daniela De Martino MP, Councillor Johanna Skelton, alongside others participated in a Q&A.

It’s time to end homelessness.

Sheree Laumen said that people should drop in if they need.

Picture: ON FILE

Heenan back in the box

By Mikayla van Loon

After a four year break from his cardboard box, Yarra Ranges councillor Tim Heenan is returning to doing his sleepout but this time for the new Holy Fools FreezeOut! Challenge.

For five days throughout Homelessness

Week from 7-11 August, Cr Heenan will be getting uncomfortable by sleeping in a cardboard box in his backyard while hoping to raise $8000.

“I’ll be committing to be in the box at least eight hours every night,” he said.

For roughly 15 years now, Cr Heenan has participated in some sort of sleep out, ranging from 30 days to seven days meaning he’s banked a number of hours out in the cold.

“I was doing the calculations when I was remembering everything and I think this year finally tips me over one thousand hours,” he said.

Having always been a big supporter of Holy Fools’ CEO Neal Taylor, Cr Heenan said the FreezeOut! has been another great show of community support to help raise funds to keep the organisation operating.

“This is the first time I might say I’ve ever asked in 14 years for people to sponsor and to donate money, it’s usually all about awareness, it’s been awareness 100 per cent of the time but organisations like Holy Fools now are doing it tough.

“It’s going to a good cause. There’s a lot of organisations that do work in this sector around our area in Lilydale but no one like Holy Fools and they just don’t get the money from the government grants.”

Cr Heenan said this year his message to the community is to ‘help those who help those in need’ because without them “the situation’s 20 times worse”.

“It doesn’t matter whether it’s a church group, whether it’s Holy Fools, or whether it’s the Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service, or the lovely lady Kate with ADRA in Warburton, help those who help those in need.”

Despite feeling the cold each night he is out there, Cr Heenan said it is a good representation of what people sleeping rough have to go through all winter perhaps.

“It’s been a little bit difficult over the years with the freezing cold but it’s all in relation obviously to what people have to put up with.

“When it has been zero degrees or minus one or two, it’s helped the situation much

more because people can see it. I go home, I go back to my bed after this period of time but there are real people out there who die of exposure because they’re sleeping rough

“They might be able to do it for two or three years but Neal’s got examples where he’s lost people that he’s been helping where unfortunately the medical condition of those people has just got too much and they’ve passed away by sleeping rough.”

Cr Heenan said in 2015 it was becoming “glaringly obvious” that the majority of people sleeping in cars were women.

“More and more women with children, on

For the first time Cr Heenan is raising funds in support of Holy Fools’ FreezeOut!

some occasions, had to actually sleep in cars and now they’re starting to say, the most emerging group is the over 50s women.

“That was emerging eight years ago and either people just didn’t want to see, or they didn’t want to accept it but we have to face the reality of what’s going on at the moment.”

As a member of the council, Cr Heenan said he hopes changes to the way housing is built can start from a municipality level.

“We’ve really got to build something, we’ve got to get on doing it and local government plays a big part in that. I hope with our next housing strategy we’re going to be able to look to do more than just advocating.”

There’s still time to support the FreezeOut! Challenge, either by taking part yourself or donating to the cause.

To find out more, donate or register, go to www.freezeout.org.au

Mountain high, valley low: Anchor’s Rapid response

By Tyrell Mills, Anchor

This article was originally published in full in Parity Magazine, Australia’s national homelessness publication.

One of the notable attractions of the Yarra Ranges lies in the remarkable diversity of its landscape. A mere 30-minute car ride will take you from the bustling suburban areas of Mooroolbark and Lilydale up to the picturesque heights atop Mt Dandenong and the sprawling vineyards of the esteemed Yarra Valley wine region.

Local organisations that support rough sleepers need to reckon with the uniqueness of the Yarra Ranges if they are to have an impact on the ground.

It is with this context that the Rapid Response Program (RRP) was conceived in 2018.

Originally funded as a pilot project by the Yarra Ranges Council, the partnership between the council and Anchor Community Care has been a positive one in which the two combine to proactively reach rough sleepers.

So far, the program has delivered outreach crisis support and referral to health care, dental care, nurse outreach, mental health, and psychiatric help, as well as additional wellbeing and housing access.

“People who are homeless can be difficult to reach, particularly when it is across such a large geographical municipality and that’s why this program is so useful - it reaches people in need on their terms,” Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Jim Child said.

“Not only is this program effective in supporting rough sleepers, but the value-add this partnership has brought is the way it has opened lines of communication between those at the coalface and council. This has helped build the capacity of council staff to respond to homelessness and has led to collaborations that extend beyond the scope of this project,” Cr Child said.

Anchor Rapid Response Senior Worker, Talia Appleby, has seen the program grow

since its inception. She is one of only two women providing the outreach work, covering a total area of 2,500 square kilometres between them.

She explains that the program was started because rough sleepers were less inclined to travel ‘down the line’ to the main service area of Lilydale, where Anchor provides the only crisis response program for those experiencing homelessness in Melbourne’s outer-east.

“We were finding that there was a real need for outreach support to help get to where rough sleepers were. At the same time, the council was receiving an influx of reports of people sleeping rough,” she said.

“It presented a perfect opportunity to collaborate on a better approach and stop rough sleepers falling through the gaps in such a large area.”

The distinct profile of the area produces a unique situation for rough sleepers. Unlike the CBD and inner city areas, theYarra Ranges doesn’t have multiple services providing widespread coverage.

There are no rooming houses further out than Lilydale, and access to material aid is scattered across the region, typically attached to church organisations.

Whereas those sleeping rough in the city tend to have travelled to be there,Yarra Ranges residents who find themselves sleeping

rough tend to not want to leave the area with which they are familiar. Solo rough sleepers are also far more common.

“If they are born and bred in the area, they will try to remain where their supports are, whether that is emotional, financial, or practical,” Talia said.

“If you were to find yourself in crisis, you wouldn’t want to leave the area that you consider to be home. Neither do our rough sleepers.”

Anchor’s involvement has helped to change Council’s default response being to move rough sleepers on or involving authorities.

“Now when the council are made aware of rough sleepers, provided no one is in immediate danger, they call us first and we lead with engagement and care.”

The size and isolation of some of the bush areas can pose situations that require good risk management. Call-outs are often initiated by reports made by the public to the Council, often providing scarce details for the team heading out.

The Covid-19 pandemic almost derailed things when, mid-way through the pilot, government lockdown orders saw all people sleeping rough sheltered in local motels and other arrangements.

While it might sound positive that there were zero rough sleepers for a time, the experience was not a good one for many of the rough sleepers supported by Anchor.

“A lot of problems were exacerbated,” says Talia, whose team were restricted to providing service only over the phone.

“It went two ways: there were some who didn’t want to be placed in the motels and they would further isolate themselves and not engage with services as much.”

While the Rapid Response Project was able to return to normality during 2022, concerning trends showed that the COVID pandemic had exacerbated the housing crisis and brought about a new cost of living crisis fuelled by inflation.

The council’s evaluation found the project had exceeded their anticipated outcomes during the pilot period from 2018 - 2022, with the program responding to more than 100 reports of rough sleepers in the area.

The refunding of the program in 2023 was an easy decision for the Council given the impact the program has had:

17 per cent of Rapid response clients accepted respite accommodation as a result of engaging with the program, and 18 per cent found long term accommodation.

“Analysing the success of programs like the Rapid Response Program shows that it works, and we will continue to support this, and a number of other initiatives to respond to those people who find themselves homeless,” Mayor Child said.

Program re-funding sees Rapid Response extended for a further four years.

In addition to the outreach that will continue to support rough sleepers, Anchor is seeking to use the success of the program to generate better integration of the data that is captured through the program.

An adaptable map and shareable database will ensure that police, ambulance, fire, and crisis services are made aware of individuals’ locations, safety status, and health needs during emergency events.

Erin (left) and Taila (right) at a rough sleepers camp site.

Picture: ANCHOR

Councillor Tim Heenan is returning to sleeping in a cardboard box for Homelessness Week.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Roofless: Crisis of hope

By Tanya Faulkner

The housing crisis is becoming much more predominant across the Knox municipality as the cost of living continues to rise. During the City of Knox council meeting held on July 14, 2023, a local woman came forward to share her experiences with becoming homeless in the Knox municipality during council’s public question time.

She shared that she had been taken off the Victoria Housing Register, because she had been fortunate enough to find a job, and now makes ‘too much money’ to be considered for social housing. The woman said, in Knox alone, she had come across several others who were put in this position, or have been made homeless due to the current economic environment, and need help.

“We’re real people, it hurts and it’s embarrassing and awkward, and I would rather not be in this position,” she expressed to Knox councillors.

As of April, 2023, the income limit for a single person is $1,107, a couple has a limit of $1,693 and for families up to two children is $2,284 with each additional child increasing their limit by $370 each. This means that anyone requiring social housing support must be earning less than $58,000 for a single person, or less than $119,000 combined for families, per year in their employment to make the cut.

At the July council meeting, Knox Mayor Cr Marcia Timmers-Leitch said as a council “we are taking homelessness very seriously”, and said council is trying to get Knox in front of MP Julie Collins to help improve the local homelessness situation.

Unfortunately, across the wider Knox community, homelessness and financial difficulties are becoming the norm for many residents. Another woman, a single mother in Ferntree Gully, said the increased cost of living has put her family at risk, and causing severe detriment to her mental health.

She said, at the time of interview, she was unable to work due to her health, but was fortunate to have families from Uniting Victoria supporting her wellbeing and safety.

The mother said the most heartbreaking part was the impact the rise in costs is having on her son.

“We have thankfully been allocated housing, but petrol prices, insurance, clothing, food, and everything is just so expensive.

“Some weeks I can’t afford food, so I have to

call the Salvation Army food banks.

“My son is in high school, and doesn’t want to change schools, so I have to pay for tolls and petrol to get him there, and then can’t afford to let him go out with friends,” she said.

The biggest kick, for her, is that her son’s father doesn’t support them.

“His father only pays $18 a fortnight in child support. How is that supposed to help me raise our son?” she said.

City of Knox Council were approached to comment, however were unable to comment on the current homelessness situation in the municipality.

It did, however, share that the council has a Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Policy and partners with key stakeholders to prevent homelessness and monitor accessibility to key housing providers and other support services.

Council also has a four-year plan to increase the supply of social and affordable housing in Knox.

Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor said everyone

has the right to a safe roof over their head.

“I’m proud to be part of a government that is delivering the Big Housing Build, delivering more than 12,000 new social housing homes for those that need it most,” he said.

Mr Taylor said the cost of living is certainly having an impact on locals at the moment.

“Locally, in our part of the world, as a part of the State Government’s Boronia Revitalisation funding has been provided to Knox Infolink in order to run the Boronia breakfast program, open to anybody who wants a good, hot meal.

“The team at Infolink use this opportunity to chat with people who attend and link them up with support services, where appropriate,” he said.

Earlier this month, in recognition of homelessness in Victoria, thousands of origami homes were displayed on the steps ofVictoria’s Parliament to illustrate the scale of the state’s housing and homelessness crisis.

Council for Homeless Persons CEO Debo-

rah Di Natale said more than 100,000 Victorians sought help from homelessness services last year, and on any given night, approximately 30,000 people have no home.

“These people are staying on friends’ couches, in expensive and dangerous rooming houses or without shelter entirely, living in a car or public space,” she said.

AcrossVictoria, rental prices have increased by 13 per cent in the last year alone, and we have seen 12 increases to the cash rate by the Royal Bank of Australia, causing more strain on locals to secure permanent housing.

She said we need Victoria to act, but the federal government must also coordinate a national plan to end, and not just reduce homelessness.

“The theme of Homelessness Week is that “it’s time to end homelessness.

“Investment in social housing is a no brainer – it boosts the economy and puts a roof over people’s heads. The cost is too high, and the benefits too great not to invest,” she said.

Demand for limited homelessness services surges

A new analysis reveals surging demand for homelessness services as record low rental vacancies and soaring prices push thousands of Australian families to the brink. Overstretched and overwhelmed: the strain on homelessness services was prepared to mark the start of Homelessness Week.

It cross-references Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data against service costs as outlined in the Productivity Commission Report on Government Services to reveal that an additional $450 million in homelessness support is needed to respond to new people needing homelessness assistance and people currently being turned away.

Between December and March, the number of people seeking homelessness assistance spiked 7.5 per cent, an extra 6,658 clients.

The overwhelming bulk of that need came from people seeking homelessness help because of financial stress and the housing crisis. Of the 95,767 people seeking assistance in March 2023, 83 per cent of them (79,244) needed help due to issues with their housing or financial stress.

In Victoria the rate of increase was 5.3 per cent, seeing 32,733 people seek homelessness assistance in March this year compared to 31,088 in December 2022.

The report also highlights the impact of the housing crisis on women and children, with

Homelessness Australia has noted a rise in people accessing homelessness services.

women and children making up 74 per cent of all people using homelessness services. Of those turned away from homelessness services because they lacked the resources to assist, 80 per cent were women and children and 31 per cent were children under 18.

The report finds that if the current surge in demand continues, it will equate to an an-

Picture: UNSPLASH

nual increase in demand equivalent to an additional 19,974 people. When combined with the 71,962 people currently turned away from homelessness services each year this adds up to 91,936 extra people needing support.

The cost of funding this support is approximately $451 million.

Homelessness Australia CEO, Kate Colvin, said the surge in demand was making it harder to assist people confronting homelessness.

“A 7.5 per cent increase in demand in just four months is unheard of. It forces homelessness services to make extremely tough decisions about who gets assistance,” she said.

“Support services are triaging based on people’s vulnerability and need, but the reality is highly vulnerable people are being turned away because services simply have too few staff and other support resources. When you annualise this demand and add it to the existing people turned away we are looking at a funding shortfall of more than $450 million. This is just one terrible side effect of the worst housing crisis in living memory.

“The bulk of increased demand comes from women and children, many of whom are fleeing violence. It is beyond comprehension that we have to turn people away, especially in winter.

“The Federal Government has recently committed to new resources for social housing which is welcome, but while the housing crisis continues to drive increased homelessness, a significant funding boost is needed to cope with this unprecedented surge in demand. Australia has the means to end homelessness, we just need the will.”

Homelessness in the Knox council area has increased as a result of unaffordable housing.

Picture: ON FILE

Rental help

With the cost of living rising, many renters are worried about how they will afford their home rental payments and some have even fallen behind with rental payments.

Eviction from private rental accommodation resulting from failure to pay rent is a leading risk factor for homelessness. In the current cost of living crisis, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find affordable rental properties and keep up with the rising cost of rent. In the latest Rental Report by the Victorian State Government Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, the median rent in Melbourne metro areas went up by $20 per week to $480, and in the regions from $400 to $420 per week.

Home renters will be pleased to know that an online help tool has been developed to assist tenants who have fallen behind with rental payments. Created by Justice Connect - a specialist Community Legal Centrethe free, online self-help tool called ‘Dear Landlord’ is specifically designed to assist tenants who have fallen behind in their rental payments to avoid eviction.

Dear Landlord can help tenants:

· Understand their options to avoid eviction, or respond to a notice to vacate

· Draft a letter to their rental provider to negotiate a payment plan or rent reduction

· Prepare for VCAT or lodge a VCAT review application if they missed their hearing

· Find important financial and legal help

Since early 2020, over 84,000 renters have used Dear Landlord to avoid eviction.

Legal matters

Anita Koochew Eastern Community Legal Centre

If you rent a home and you would like to access ‘Dear Landlord’, visit www.justiceconnect. org.au/help/dear-landlord/

Justice Connect’s Homeless Law service also provides free legal help to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness and tackles unfair laws that affect people who are homeless. You can get help, refer someone, or read more about Homeless Law at justiceconnect.org.au/ourservices/homeless-law/ If you need legal help you can also call Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC) on 1300 32 52 00, request an appointment at https://eclc.org.au/help/ or email at eclc@eclc.org.au.

ECLC is a multidisciplinary legal service that works to prevent problems, progress fair outcomes and support the wellbeing and resilience of communities and community members in Melbourne’s East. ECLC has been providing FREE legal advice to people living in the local government areas of Boroondara, Knox, Manningham, Maroondah, Whitehorse and Yarra Ranges for almost 50 years.

Where does all the time go?

Paradise

Starring Kostja Ullmann, Marlene Tanczik and Corinna Kirchhoff

Rated MA15+ 4/5

Paradise is a compelling, very well-paced German science fiction thriller.

Max (Kostja Ullmann) is a top salesman for Aeon, a corporation that extracts years of life from donors and sells them to wealthy clients. When his wife Elena (Marlene Tanczik) must give up nearly forty years to pay a debt, Max forsakes the system and hatches a daring plan to reclaim her youth.

With a similar but much better-executed time-as-currency premise as In Time, Paradise’s engrossing narrative flows and escalates smoothly through its tonally very different three acts.

The first act features beautifully-understated tragedy, as Elena (now played by Corinna Kirchhoff) struggles to accept her suddenly-aged body and Max’s loyalty to Aeon crumbles. The second act is a disquieting kidnapping scheme, and the final act is a tense standoff reminiscent of the climactic siege in Alfonso Cuaron’s Children of Men.

Running through the film are Max and Elena’s evolving relationship, clever dialogue and an ever-worsening situation pushing good people to commit bad acts. A subplot between

An Australian classic brought to life

The 1812 Theatre

Picnic at Hanging Rock – Tom Wright

On a summer’s day 1900, three Australian schoolgirls on a picnic expedition to re mote Hanging Rock absconded from the group. They were last seen heading toward the beckoning rock.

In Tom Wright’s chilling adaptation of Joan Lindsay’s classic novel, five performers struggle to solve the mystery of the missing girls and their teacher. Euphoria and terror reverberate throughout the community, as the potential for history to repeat itself becomes nightmarishly real.

1812 Theatre produced a stunning version of Tom Wright’s Picnic at Hanging Rock.

A simple set with tabs down each side and at the rear. The tabs were painted grey but if you looked closely they were the Australian Eucalyptus with a vertical screen to the rear. Lighting was excellent and really made the show. The cast were Claire Duncan, Caitlyn Pasqual, Rhiannin Mitchell, Elsa Kendall and Madeleine Brown.

Each actor handled their roles with professionalism, all playing several roles including males. This was exquisitely acted and the cast gave the real feeling of horror.

A well done production, well directed by Dexter Bourke and a play not to be missed.

CARTOON

Kemp’s curtain call

Eltham Little theatre

Audition Notice:

The show is Clue opening in November but naturally auditions are being held on Sunday August 13 and Monday August 14.

On a dark and stormy night, six mysterious guests show up at a stereotypically creepy mansion having each received an invitation from an unknown host. However, as their host’s true intentions are revealed and the night takes a deadly turn, everyone must scramble to catch the killer and try to leave the mansion alive.

This raucous comedy requires a dynamic ensemble of actors to bring it to life with chutzpah and gusto, and will no doubt be a show to remember for those who make it out alive.

To make further inquiries go to info@ elthamlittletheatre.com.au

A Reminder:

· The Basin theatre opens Thursday August 10 with The 39 Steps

Bookings: 1300 784 668.

Kaya (Lorna Ishema) and Viktor (Numan Akar), two security personnel on Max and Elena’s tail, provides some levity, asViktor takes a shine to a woman who is physically younger than him but objectively older.

Like After Yang from last year, Paradise’s future setting is all the more immersive through its subtle details, but the costuming, art direction and electronic score remind me of the cyberpunk video game Deus Ex: Human Revolution.The old age make-up is not entirely convincing, and the film’s repeated use of pop songs feels slightly shallow (and their inclusion in intimate scenes brings back unpleasant memories of the 365 Days series).

A poignant, intelligent sci-fi thriller with heady ideas and a human pulse, Paradise is available for streaming on Netflix.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Thoroughly enjoyable read looks into gaming world

A review of Two Can Play That Game by LeanneYong

Those who have teenage and/or adult gamers at home – and those who are curious about esports – will find Leanne Yong’s Two Can Play That Game a thoroughly enjoyable read. Previously an IT business analyst, Yong is an escape room creator who has designed internationally recognised games combining unique puzzle mechanics with narrative. Her insight into the gaming world, both as a user and a producer, adds a depth and richness to this charmingYA novel.

The first-person protagonist Sam is a scholarship winner destined for a university degree and then a stable and secure career. This will be a dream coming true for every Asian family and the expectations from her Chinese-Malaysian parents are huge.

But Sam’s goal in life is to create cool indie games. She is desperate for a super-rare ticket to a prestigious workshop that can kickstart

her career as a professional game designer –only to have it tricked out of her hands by Jay, a fellow gamer who is also from her community.

Enraged, Sam challenges Jay into a one-onone competition of classic video games. Either that – or she will expose his sneaky move to “every single aunty and uncle in Brisbane” through the Asian Gossip Network.

So, game on! Following the two characters into the gaming world, we soon discover how video games are produced and promoted, from conceptualisation and storyboarding to R&D and mapping and finally to prototyping and marketing. Also featured are some of the design techniques and tricks commonly used by developers, highlighting the importance of setting clearly defined challenges, constraints, goals and rewards in each game.

All this is cleverly and seamlessly blended into the story without hindering the plot, which revolves around the two characters slowly yet steadily transitioning from rivals to friends. Both are fiercely competitive and driven in their pursuit of excellence and success. Both are also aware of their overwhelming responsibilities and obligations, not only as the oldest child in their family but also as an emerging adult living in and between Asian and Australian cultures.

With that said, the story is universally ap-

pealing because it is about young people trying to follow their passions in the face of conflicting family expectations. It is about mutual respect and open communication between friends and families.

More importantly, it is about finding one’s own path, overcoming fear and self-doubt, and learning to deal with uncertainty and disappointment.

Subtly, the story conveys to young people the precious message that failure is not and should not be seen as the end of a dream. Rather, it gives you an opportunity to take a different approach to pursuing that dream.

Finally, to all the nerds out there, here is a valuable quote from Two Can Play That Game.

“I’ve always looked up to your determination and how you know what you want, and never hesitate to go for it no matter the sacrifice, So screw your courage to the sticking place, or whatever that line in Macbeth was.”

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

No. 519 7 9614 84 52

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 To support (7)

5 Supervisors (7)

9 Russian guitar-like instrument (9)

3 Parable (8)

4 Tip of the finger (4)

5 Brotherhood (10)

6 Breaker (6)

7 Former US first lady, – Obama (8)

27 31 3961 7 183

10 Doctor who stands in temporarily (5)

11 Former glacial geological period (3,3)

12 Strongly emotional (8)

14 Stick of coloured wax (5)

15 Field of floating ice (4)

19 United States federal agency that provides mail services (1.1.1.1)

20 Admission (6)

24 Irritated skin bubbles (8)

25 Person who looks after children (6)

27 Spanish island (5)

28 Journeyed (9)

29 Greek goddess of harvest (7)

30 Atrocity (7)

DOWN

1 Surrender (6)

2 Internal organ (6)

8 Of no consequence (2,6)

13 Machine for producing print (10)

16 Having impaired vision (arch.) (8)

17 Looking at the positives (8)

18 Inhabitant (8)

21 Historical royal family of Scotland and Britain (6)

22 Roma is its capital (6)

23 Clear river bed (6)

26 Edible rootstock (4)

easy 76 97 68

DECODER WORDFIT

93 4 156 8 27 54

68 41 5 679 19 8

hard

63 7 59 68 54

medium 762 8927 346

93 74 59 45 3

9-LETTER WORD

C

G

ceding, cent, decent, deign, dent, DETECTING, dine, dinette, ding, dint, entice, enticed, gene, genet, genetic, genie, need, netted, nice, niece, teeing, tend, tenet, tent, tented, tinct, tine, tinge, tinged, tint, tinted

No. 145

No. 145

No. 145

RETREAT OR BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

NESTLED on a sprawling near 2-acre parcel, this property boasts a serene setting enveloped by a gully of lush ferns, established trees and the soothing embrace of the surrounding nature reserve and flowing creek. With its stunning timber features and unique stylish upgrades, this home offers a harmonious blend of nature and modern comforts.

The property is currently being operated as a successful Airbnb with over 100 5 star reviews and a healthy income to match. If your long-term plan is to slowly migrate to the hills, or would like an immediate income, then this is the property for you!

Featuring 3 charming bedrooms and 2 beautifully renovated bathrooms, this residence is an oasis of comfort and style. The bathrooms have been thoughtfully designed to create a luxurious ambiance, ensuring your daily routines are elevated to a new level of relaxation.

Prepare to be inspired in the spacious kitchen, boasting ample room and adorned with a mix of stone and timber benches. The kitchen adjoins the lounge, family and dining area that are bathes in natural light from the near wall of windows providing the most breath-taking view.

Step outside and be captivated by the

stunning outdoor entertaining area. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings, celebrating special occasions, or simply unwinding after a long day, this space provides the perfect backdrop. Immerse yourself in nature’s tranquillity while enjoying the company of loved ones.

For your convenience, the property features a sealed drive, ensuring easy access. The chook shed completes the hills lifestyle you’ve been looking for. Located only minutes from multiple townships offerings shops, cafes, restaurants and an abundance of amenities, don’t miss the opportunity to make this sanctuary your home. ●

Address: 39 Lisheen Road, COCKATOO Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Price:

Contact: Riley Nicholas 0488 501 218, BARRY PLANT EMERALD

MAKE YOUR NEXT MOVE WITH INTEGRITY

Integrity Real Estate is a family-owned real estate agency servicing the Yarra Valley, Kinglake Ranges and surrounds. Our team draws on over 70 years real estate experience to provide premium property services, with unmatched personal service that only a family company can provide.

TRANQUIL RETREAT WITH WATTS RIVER FRONTAGE

ESCAPE to your own piece of paradise with this captivating property boasting over 13 acres of stunning land, complete with Watts River frontage, perfect for nature lovers and horse enthusiasts alike. Currently, it serves as a delightful home for horses, featuring five well-maintained paddocks that offer ample space for grazing and roaming.

The land’s near-level topography presents endless possibilities to create your weekend haven, where you can unwind and enjoy the serene surroundings. Picture yourself sitting around a crackling campfire, sharing laughter and stories with friends and family, all while immersed in nature’s beauty.

Water and power are already connected, making the property even more inviting for you to set up your ideal retreat. Alternatively, with the appropriate permissions (Subject To Council Approval), you can build your dream home here and turn this picturesque landscape into a permanent oasis for you and your loved ones.

Located just a few kilometers from town, convenience meets countryside living.

HOME ESSENTIALS

The nearby town of Healesville boasts a plethora of amenities, including schools, kindergartens, and a fully equipped hospital.

Whatever your needs may be, this charming town has got you covered.

Healesville is more than just a town; it’s

Address: 50 Maroondah Parade, HEALESVILLE Description: 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $940,000 - $990,000

Contact: Jane Nunn 0432 375 940 and jane@integrityrealestate.com.au, INTEGRITY REAL ESTATE

the gateway to the stunning Yarra Valley, renowned for its wineries, gin distilleries, and craft beer venues. Indulge your taste buds in the finest local produce, savouring delectable dishes at quaint cafes. Embrace a close-knit community that genuinely cares, creating an environment that feels like home from the moment you arrive.

Nestled amidst towering trees and picturesque landscapes, this property has been lovingly maintained and offers you the chance to be part of something truly special. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape, a space for your horses, or the perfect spot to build your dream residence, this property ticks all the boxes.

Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to own your slice of heaven in the heart of the Yarra Valley.

Embrace the idyllic lifestyle that awaits you at this charming, well-kept property. Contact us today for more information or to arrange a viewing - your dream property is within reach. ●

Inspect: By appointment

This stunning two-storey residence is a perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience. Situated on a spacious land size of 654sqm, this remarkable property offers everything you need for a relaxed and enjoyable lifestyle. With its prime location, just a short walk away from the vibrant village and essential amenities, and adjacent to beautiful Queens Park, this is an opportunity not to be missed!

COUNTRY SIDE CHARMER ON 966M2

LOCATED within walking distance to the thriving and always growing Cockatoo township, discover this comfortable and delightful family home.

Positioned cleverly to take full advantage of the breathtaking treetop views across the valley, the home has a front row seat to spectacular sunrises.

Stepping inside you are welcomed into the open living room where the stunning views, vaulted ceilings and a cosy wood fire create an ambient and charming space to sit back, relax and enjoy time with family.

The adjoining kitchen and dining are spacious in design, boasting excellent cupboard and bench space, dishwasher, oversized pantry, stainless steel oven and gas cooktop.

There are three bedrooms in total the master bedroom is complete with built in robes and ensuite bathroom and features sliding door access to a concrete patio with lovely terraced gardens, ideal for enjoying some peace and quiet outside and a serene view from inside.

The secondary bedrooms both with built in robes are serviced by the family bathroom. The laundry and separate w/c

completes the home. Special features include ducted heating, ceiling fans, timber floorboards, ducted vacuuming and charming features throughout.

Outside, fall in love with the landscaped gardens, stunning views a variety of outdoor entertaining spaces.

The first decked entertaining space enjoys lovely tree top views and over sees the established gardens whilst the second covered and paved area is perfect for yearround enjoyment with friends and family.

A garage/workshop with separate studio is the perfect place to tinker and play or could suit a very lucky older child with potential to be bedroom 4 or a cool kids hang out area.

There is also a double car port with sealed driveway access, excellent storage under the house and other sundry shedding for the toys and tools. For the green thumb there is vegie gardens ready and waiting for next seasons vegetables. Delightful brick pathways meander through the garden. With all the amenities Cockatoo has to offer just a stones throw away, this property really has it all. Inspection is an absolute must. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

29KitchenerParade, Cockatoo

COUNTRYSIDECHARMERON966M2

FORSALE.

GUIDE $750,000-$795,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

20HaylockAvenue, Cockatoo

TIMETOBUILDTHEHOMEOFYOURDREAMS

892m2

FORSALE.

GUIDE $330,000-$360,000 INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT LanaMaher 0408535075

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

7LuciaCourt, Gembrook

STYLISHRESORTSTYLELIVING!

4 A T 3 B T 2 C T

FORSALE. GUIDE $1,150,000-$1,250,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

ALWAYSBUYINAGREATLOCATION!!!

18LeggRoad, Emerald 3 A

FORSALE.

GUIDE $695,000-$750,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT LanaMaher 0408535075

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

3,27-33WoodsStreet, Beaconsfield

TIMETOBUILDTHEHOMEOFYOURDREAMS

64m2

FORSALE.

GUIDE $420,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

ENDLESSPOTENTIAL,EXCEPTIONALVALUE

2002WellingtonRoad, Clematis 3

FORSALE.

GUIDE $650,000-$715,000 INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT RileyNicholas 0488501218

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

3BerrysRoad, Emerald

FANTASTICBUYINGINTHEHEARTOFEMERALD

5 A T 2 B T 3 C T

FORSALE.

GUIDE $800,000-$880,000 INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

39LisheenRoad, Cockatoo

THEPERFECTRETREATORBUSINESSOPPORTUNITY

3 A T 2 B T

FORSALE.

GUIDE $1,100,000-$1,200,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT RileyNicholas 0488501218

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

31SelbyAuraRoad, MenziesCreek

FAMILYENTERTAINERINALEAFYPANORAMA

4 A T 2 B T 2 C T

FORSALE.

GUIDE $830,000-$860,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

FAMILY LIVING WITH LOADS OF SPACE

POSITIONED to please and offering loads of space for the growing family inside and out, boasting 4 generous bedrooms all with built in robes and including an ensuite and walk through robe in the main bedroom. The open plan kitchen offers ample bench and cupboard space with quality appliances and fittings throughout, huge living areas with separate family/lounge/ living room and meals area with plenty of room to accommodate the largest of family gatherings. Ducted heating, wood heating and evaporative cooling throughout offer year round comfort.

The whole family will love the outdoors with well over 1 acre (4476sqm) to enjoy and explore, established gardens and lush lawns the kids and pets will love it, a large lock up high clearance garage/workshop provides the ideal spot for caravans, boats, trucks and trailers, plus a separate 2 car garage and tool/garden shed.

A superb family home in a popular and very sought after area located in a quiet court with great mountain views and situated just a short stroll to Wesburn’s main street, public transport, local primary school and the Warburton trail.

It’s the ideal place to call home with nothing to do but sit back relax and enjoy the semi rural lifestyle and warm country atmosphere. ●

HOME FOCUS

INKARA VIEW

A SPECIAL place to call home, set amongst the gums where the bird life is divine, and the sounds of the seasonal creek are a lovely treat. This home is now offered for sale after many joyous years spent with the one caring family who have enjoyed endless summer days, making the most of the outdoors, and many nights by the loungeroom fireplace in winter.

This family-friendly mudbrick home has been built by the owners with lots of love, and now the opportunity is available for the next chapter and new memories to be made. A picture-perfect setting, it sits on well over an acre, which includes stunning mountain views and well-maintained gardens. These gardens feature a fernery, Japanese garden, spacious lawn, large studio, lock-up double garage approx. 9x6, double carport, veggie garden, fruit trees, and it’s fully fenced and ideal to enjoy the opportunity to have free range chooks – just

to name a few outdoor highlights.

Privately tucked away from the road and positioned perfectly so you can absorb stunning views across the neighbouring farmland and out onto the nearby mountains from your lounge and outdoor entertaining area. Delightful scenery awaits at every glance.

A cosy and simple layout to suit everyone, with 3 bedrooms and a bonus option for a 4th. The updated kitchen features a stunning Falcon oven and bamboo benchtops to cook up a storm. The bathroom has been stylishly designed. A separate studio with power provides a great work-from-home space.

If you’re searching for a home in the country like no other, then we have found it... all only a few minutes from the bustling town of Warburton, with a short walk to the bus stop. A must to inspect. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

Address: 15 Golden Perch Avenue, EAST WARBURTON, VIC 3799

Description: 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 4 garage

Price: $800,000 - $880,000

Inspect: By appointment Contact: Rebecca Doolan 0401 832 068, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION. 5967 1277

QUALITY HOME IN CENTRAL LOCATION

THIS spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom unit is located in a quiet area of Yarra Junction, just a short walk to the supermarket, shops, and public transport. The home features a large living area and open plan kitchen which has all enjoyed a recent renovation with lovely new floors and fixtures.

Perfect for seniors, families or couples who want to be close to all the amenities of town and wanting something a bit stylish, fresh and sparkly, you wont want to pass this one up.

The living area is perfect for entertaining guests with plenty of space for a dining table, couches, and cabinetry on the beautiful timber floors and the stylish open plan kitchen is modern and well-equipped, with plenty of storage space, dishwasher and quality appliances. With beautiful mountain views enjoyed from your north facing windows, you can watch the changing colours of the seasons from your gorgeous living space.

The 3 bedrooms are all big! All of them feeling like a master size, with bedrooms 2 & 3 enjoying quality carpet and spacious built-in wardrobes. The beautiful master bedroom has its own light filled ensuite and fitted out walk-in wardrobe, making it the perfect space for a relaxing retreat. Storage throughout the home is well catered for, so you will have a place for everything and ducted heating and cooling take care of the creature comforts.

The bright and shiny main bathroom has a large double vanity, heated towel rails, bath, separate shower and is accessed from the laundry/wet room, another space that has been well thought out for convenience, style and ample storage.

The double carport is tucked away at the rear of the home, giving you easy access straight into the laundry/wet room, ideal to quickly drop all your bags and then do the leisurely unpack. There is also plenty of street parking available for your guests and with local parks, playgrounds and the Warburton trail nearby, you will have so much enjoyment for the kids and pets. If you’re looking for a spacious, modern and comfortable home in Yarra Junction that’s not going to break the bank, then this is the home for you. Call today to arrange a viewing! ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

Address: 28 Yarra Street, YARRA

1/41HowardStreet,Seville$1,290,000-$1,360,000

Welcometothisstunningandluxurioushome,atruemasterpiecethatpromisestocaptivateyou fromthemomentyoulayeyesonit.Boasting4largebedrooms,includingaremarkablemain bedroomstrategicallypositionedtoofferpanoramicvalleyviews,youcaneffortlesslyconnectwith naturethroughexpansiveslidingdoorsandaprivatebalcony.Ensuringyear-roundcomfort,the propertyisequippedwithductedreversecycleheatingandcooling.Thekitchenisatruedelight foranymasterchef,featuringtop-of-the-lineappliances,exquisitebenchtops,fixtures,andample benchandcupboardspace,complementedbyanoversizedwalk-inpantry.Theallurecontinues outdoorswithaprivatecoveredentertaining/BBQarea,alock-up2-cargarage,andanadditional separatelock-upstorageroom.Don’tmisstheopportunitytoownthisremarkableproperty!

Inspection: Sat1.00-1.30pm 4 A 2 B 2 C

FAMILYCOMFORTSPACEANDCONVENIENCE

Somethingalittledifferentandcertainlyveryuniqueandveryimpressive,thisbeautifullypresented homeoffers3bedroomsallwithbuiltinrobes.Greatsizelivingspacewithalargefamily/livingroom andseparatemeals/diningarea,thekitchenisamazingwithstunningtimberbenchtopsandloads ofbenchandcupboardspace.Thewholefamilywilllovetheoutdoorswithgreatusablefrontand backyardswithplentyofspaceforthekidsandpetstorunaroundandenjoyandexplore.Sitback relaxandadmirethesuperbmountainviewsfromtheentertainingdeckandBBQarea,asuperb familypropertyconvenientlypositionedjustashortwalktolocalschools,shops,transportandthe Yarrariverandwalkingtrail,agreatplacetocallhome.

CountryLaneCharmer

M 0438795190

5ArmitageAvenue,EastWarburton$690,000-$750,000 TonyFanfulla M 0419870513 Inspection:

Thisexceptionalhomeofferstheidealsmallcountrytownlifestyleandshowcasingaflexibleand thoughtfulfloorplantosuitthegrowingfamily.Boasting3bedroomsallwithbuiltinrobesplusan ensuiteandwalkinrobeinthemainbedroom,spaciouslivingareaswithaseparateopenplan lounge/living/familyroom.Thekitchenisveryimpressivewithqualityappliancesandbenchtops andamplebenchandcupboardspace,amodernwelldesignedhomeofferingfamilycomfort andspace.Situatedonaneasycarelowmaintenanceblockandwithplentyofscopetoaddyour finishingtouches,locatedjustashortstrolltolocalschools,transportandYarraJunctionsshopping precinctit’stheidealplacetocallhome. M 0419539320 Inspection: Sat2.00-2.30pm 3 A 2 B 2 C

DavidCarroll

LEVEL BLOCK AND CLASSIC HOME

BUYERS seeking endless potential in a perfect position will discover it here at this idyllic property. Featuring a classic home, a coveted level block, and a convenient location only 250m from shopping, cafes, schools, and transport, this property is the trifecta of investments.

This 1,545sqm (approx.) allotment is enriched with established amenities. The large shed comprising space for machinery, workshop, storage, and a double carport, is immense value-add not to mention the dual frontage off Stanley Road. Mature trees, grape vines, and a long gravel drive are just some of the features on offer.

Inside, this period home is a thoughtful blend of original charm and modern updates. The lounge features large windows and the dine-in kitchen is equipped with ample storage and a gas cooker. With 3 generous bedrooms, a flexible study zone, and an updated bathroom, you could move right in and make yourself at home.

Alternatively, new owners may want to capitalise on the large block and prized location with a new development (STCA). This is a highly sought-after pocket that would appeal to a wide range of buyers trying to make their way into this lifestyle location.

With so many options, why wait? Prompt inspection is advised to secure this outstanding opportunity. Plan your viewing today.

· Highly coveted level 1,545sqm (approx.) allotment

· Large shed for machinery, workshop, storage, and carport

· Established garden with long drive, mature trees, and grape vines

· Classic single-storey home with gas ducted heating, split system unit, and external blinds for comfort

· Classic kitchen with gas cooker and generous lounge with large windows. ●

transport,andSassafrasPrimarySchoolisallaboutfinedetails.Fromthethoughtfully landscapedgardenstothedesignerinteriorfilledwithfunctionalityandcharm,thisproperty suitshouseproudbuyerssearchingforsomethingexceptional. BradConder M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au DanielSteen M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

ThisfabulousfamilyhomesitsnestledbetweenthepracticalitiesofUpweytownshipand thepicturesqueparklandstheDandenongRangesarefamousfor.Boastingabeautiful 1,009sqm(approx.)allotmentwithalonglistoffeaturescertaintoimpresshomeownersand tradespeople,thisistheperfectplacetomakeyourselfathome.

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

DanielSteen

M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

3 A 2 B 2 C

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

GlennChandler

M 0418410689| E glenn@chandlerandco.com.au

Withadesirablelocationonly750mfromcafes,shopping,andUpweyStation,this2,015sqm (approx.)propertyhasthepotentialtobeaveryprofitableinvestment.Alreadyadorned witharesidencereadyforrentalorrenovationplusexclusiveNRZ2zoningforsubdivision (STCA),thisisanexceptionalopportunityinanoutstandinglifestylelocation.

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

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

Grounds Person - Eildon

THE OPPORTUNITY

Join Holmesglen’s Eildon team as a Grounds

Person to maintain the grounds and outdoor across seven days, ideal for local residents or those considering relocating to the scenic Murrindindi region. Apply now.

Salary: $51,909 p.a. + 11% super.

Time Fraction: Full Time, 1.0 EFT.

Location: Eildon campus.

WWCC: Requires a ‘Working with Children

Check’.

Position Status:

ABOUT US

Conference facility and a campus of Holmesglen Institute, Victoria’s largest provider of Vocational & Higher Education. Visit www.holmesglenateildon.com.au for more information.

TO APPLY

Visit the Careers at Holmesglen section of our www.holmesglen.edu.au

Like to know more? Please contact General Manager of Holmesglen at Eildon –rozanne.lawton@holmesglen.edu.au

Sous Chef - Eildon

THE OPPORTUNITY Holmesglen is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to join their team in Eildon. Working closely with the Head Chef in a remarkable commercial kitchen, the Sous Chef will create innovative dishes using locally sourced and grown ingredients. This position is ideal for someone passionate about seasonal, sustainable, and locally sourced food for corporate and student menus.

Salary: $60,000 p.a. + 11% super.

Overtime available (25% salary loading equating to $15,000 p.a. by agreement).

Time Fraction: Full Time, 1.0 EFT.

Location: Eildon campus.

WWCC: Appointment to this position is dependent on obtaining and maintaining an ‘employee’ Working with Children Check.

Position Status: An initial contract will be offered for 12 months.

ABOUT US Holmesglen at Eildon is a purpose-built Conference facility and a campus of Holmesglen Institute, Victoria’s largest provider of Vocational & Higher Education. Visit www.holmesglenateildon.com.au for more information.

TO APPLY

Visit the Careers at Holmesglen section of our website at www.holmesglen.edu.au

R40098

Like to know more? Please contact General Manager of Holmesglen at Eildon –Rozanne Lawton PH: 5774 2631 or email her on rozanne.lawton@holmesglen.edu.au R40099

CADET JOURNALIST

An opportunity exists for a university graduate cadet journalist to join our independent news media business serving the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges. We are seeking a position for a cadet based in Healesville with an existing team of reporters.

Star News Group produces a number of news media titles across Melbourne and interstate with weekly printed newspapers and digital content.

Star News Group focuses on the local news and information that affects the lives of our community, and broader issues that directly impact our regions. The Company is operated by experienced independent publishers and a local team of experienced media professionals.

We are seeking:

A reporter with the ability to display initiative in news-gathering to produce compelling and timely content for our readers. Duties will include general news reporting, producing editorial content to support advertising features and special publications, photography, covering local events across the region, including some after hours, the ability to file stories to meet production deadlines and to assist with weekly print production and proofing of editorial content. A current driver’s licence and a reliable vehicle are essential.

Applications to Group Editor Garry Howe: garry.howe@starnewsgroup.com.au

WWCC: Requires a ‘Working with Children Check’.

Position Status: An initial contract will be offered for 12 months.

ABOUT US Holmesglen at Eildon is a purpose-built Conference facility and a campus of Holmesglen Institute, Victoria’s largest provider of Vocational & Higher Education. Visit www.holmesglenateildon.com.au for more information.

TO APPLY Visit the Careers at Holmesglen section of our website at www.holmesglen.edu.au

Like to know more? Please contact General Manager of Holmesglen at Eildon –Rozanne Lawton PH: 5774 2631 or email her on rozanne.lawton@holmesglen.edu.au

V Professional

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

Sell it local Needcash?

R40097

SPORT

Strong starts for juniors

By Sarah Morton

Healesville U9White Knights 1-1 GlenWaverley.

Healesville mostly defended well and good fun was had all round.

Healesville U10 Whites 2-6 Berwick United

The Healesville Whites arrived on time and ready for action.

The players being familiar with where they were supposed to be made all the difference to the pre-game preparation.

Three players down and no subs available did not deter the Whites from bringing their enthusiastic best.

Berwick came out strong with three unanswered goals in quick succession.

The Whites attacking players responded through Ardi C, who again proved to be a handful for the opposing defenders.

Some great defence and a super save from Arthur C saw a break away counter attack that fell to Ardi again… he dribbled past three or four players with some stand out flare and skill to bring the Whites to within 1 goal of Berwick at the half time huddle.

The team still had plenty to be upbeat about and looked to have the ascendancy for the majority of the match.

However, no available rotations wore the Whites down as Ardi C suffered a head knock leaving the team one down on the field. Berwick surged forward with another two quick goals on top of an earlier one in the half.

The score did not reflect the heart and courage shown by the Whites.

If Robbie K’s blinding strike from a well outside the box, Zak’s toe poke left of the post and Jon’s solo effort and run at goal, had all been on target… a different result may have been achieved. That is sport!

Berwick played to their strengths and won the match.

If however, fun and enthusiasm are the primary goals, then philosophically perhaps it

was the Whites who won the day!

Healesville U12s 0 - 0 Berwick U12s Healesville hosted a high flying Berwick for the second time this season.

From the get go Healesville were up for the fight against a much bigger and quicker opposition.

Chances were few and far between for both teams in an even contest with Healesville edging the territory and possession but Berwick having the better of the chances.

Manny W was outstanding in goals as were the whole defensive unit.

Overall a draw was a fair result in a goal-less clash.

Healesville U14 Boys 7-0 U14 Knox Healesville showed they were again up for the challenge with another strong start scoring early.

Bolstered by the encouragement of two injured players Gordon and Kieran on the sidelines and some of the U14s girls, they went to the break 4-0 up determined to keep going.

Knox changed their tactics and forced Healesville to defend on the goal line, however

a change in the formation and Healesville got the ascendancy back and finished with a penalty well put in by Connor M adding to the six goal haul by Will W.

Finishing with a 7-0 win, the game took Healesville to their first back to back wins and top of the division B ladder ahead of a top of the table clash next weekend. Healesville Reserves 1 – 4 Waverley City 4ths Healesville made the trip to Milperra Reserve to face Waverley.

With confidence high after a win last week but down on troops Healesville started well and took the lead with a well taken goal byTom Eaton.

As the first half wore on Waverley’s possession game started to take its toll on Healesville’s fitness and a wonderful goal just before the break had the game all tied up at 1 each.

The second half started as the first finished with a tiring Healesville struggling to keep up with a more youthful home side.

Stuart Proud, playing in goal for the first time in his short outdoor career, made some tremendous saves but it wasn’t enough as Wa-

verley would score 3 unanswered second half goals to win the game 4 goals to 1.

Dandy

Casuals 3 - 3 Healesville Seniors

A contest played by two teams missing some key players ended up being an extremely close game.

Healesville took the lead through Daniel Tadesse, scoring his second goal in as many weeks, but were pegged back minutes later. Lawrence Latin then had two goals disallowed for off-side but just before half time Brian Winrow scored - as one of his team mates described - a “Worldie”, hitting a half volley with his left foot from the edge of the box into the top corner of the net to lead 2-1 at half time.

The home team caught Healesville cold as they scored in the first 10 seconds of the second half and thought they had won the game when scoring another with just over five minutes remaining.

A piece of tactical brilliance, by coaches Tony and Bubs, saw 13 year old Will W come on and score a brilliant goal with what was virtually the last kick of the game to earn a well deserved point in what was a fair result overall.

The Re-Roof Man

HealesvilleU14GirlsandBoysattheDonRdgrounds.

Pictures:SUPPLIEDHealesvilleU10WhitetakinginCoachJoe’s strategy.

SPORT Mixed bag for Healesville

By Anne-Marie Ebbels

In the final home game for the home and away season, Healesville played Hallam and the women’s football played Olinda-Ferny Creek in the elimination semi-final in a repeat of their last home and away game.

The women started well against OlindaFerny Creek with three quick goals in the first quarter. Olinda-Ferny Creek ground out the next three quarters and managed to keep Healesville goalless for the rest of the game and kicked the winning goal in the final minutes of the fourth quarter to book themselves a grand final berth.

Healesville who had dominated the competition throughout the year despite having the ball in their forward line for a lot of the quarter couldn’t get the ball in a position to score and fell short of another grand final appearance.

In the Mens Senior football, Healesville kicked seven goals in the first quarter to set-up the game.

A tighter second quarter had Healesville only scoring two goals to Hallam’s zero.

Hallam had a better -third quarter and Healesville’s wayward kicking in front of the goal saved Hallam from a 100-plus point loss.

Healesville had 39 scoring shots to 10 for the game and were big winners by 89 points. This leaves Healesville’s finals chance still open as they chase a top four spot.

The Reserves kept Hallam scoreless in the first half to go into the half time break with a 30-point lead. Healesville had a lot of scoring opportunities, but like the seniors didn’t make the most of them with wayward kicking giving Hallam a glimmer of hope at half-time.

Healesville held steady in the second half and while the kicking for goal didn’t improve, they didn’t give Hallam many scoring opportunities and ran out eventual winners by 43 points.

With Hallam only fielding two teams in the

netball, the focus was on B and D Grade this week.

In the B Grade game, Hallam got out to an early lead and were in front by 11 goals at halftime.

A better second half by Healesville’s controlling the ball and minimising turnovers meant that Hallam didn’t extend their lead and the difference was still 11 goals at three quarter.

Healesville were unable to peg back the lead in the final quarter with Hallam winning the game by 12 goals.

The D Grade game was an exciting game.

Healesville came out of the blocks fast and went into the first break with a two-goal lead.

Some wayward passing in the second quarter by Healesville gave the lead to Hallam at half-time by three goals which was the difference, Healesville fought hard and couldn’t quite turn the game back in their favour with Hallam winning the game by three goals.

This week Healesville is heading to Seville for a must win game for the Senior Men’s team.

Sunday, Healesville is hosting the Veterans and Women’s Division 1 and 2 grand finals with the action starting at 11am.

Football

Senior Men Healesville 124 defeated Hallam 35

Best: L Daly, D Senior, B Wilsmore, S Gebert, B Murphy, D Plozza

Reserves Healesville 57 defeated Hallam 14

Best: G Houlihan, J Draper, L English, J Lightbound, J Simnett, C McInnes

Senior Women Healesville 18 defeated by Olinda-Ferny Creek 22 Best: A Bryan, C Wilsmore, I Stock, M Willemsen, M Schelfhout, D Jones

Netball

B Grade Healesville 26 defeated by Hallam 38

Best: C Haywood, H Blackney, K Deuart D Grade Healesville 25 defeated by Hallam 28 Best: S Maile, C Booker, E Birch

Rice and Laven sizzle in Ballarat in strong team show

By Jamie Strudley

Team Yarra Ranges Athletics travelled to Ballarat on Sunday for round 7 of the 2023 XCR series.The team returned some amazing performances led by an outstanding run from Brigette Rice. The annual event held around Lake Wendouree in Ballarat attracted over 600 athletes from throughout Victoria. The cool but calm conditions providing ideal opportunities for our team to shine.

Brigette Rice got the day off to a sizzling start with an outright win in the junior women 6km event. Brigette, competing in the U18 grade, stormed around the lap of the lake in 20.50 to finish 20 seconds clear of the next best female finisher. Maddie Laven raced her way to a win in the U20 women’s race. Both Brigette and Maddie will be representingVictoria at the upcoming Australian Cross Country Championships.

It was then the turn of our seniors to run two and a bit laps of the lake to complete the 15km road race championships. Max SavillBentley showed he is in great form heading into the Australian Half Marathon Championships next weekend with a 21st place run in 47.38 to lead our team to a seventh place finish in Division 2.

Olivia Twining continued her excellent XCR season with another club record running 55.57 for 12th place. Our team of Olivia, Abi Hyndman, Katrina Winger, Georgia Laven, Grace Muller and Lis Coffey had their best team result of the series with a second place to move them to second on the ladder. Full results are:

15km:

· Women Open Olivia Twining 55:57; Abi

· Men Open Max Savill-Bentley 47:38; James

Laven 51:22; Seamus Dwyer 51:55; Jared Byrne 55:46; Chris Grundy 55:51; Matthew Morrison 1:00:43; Michael Clarke 1:02:52; Graham Coutts 1:06:58; Logan Dutton 1:08:08; Bryan Ackerly 1:14:02; 6km

· Women U20 Madeline Laven 22:51; Mia Strudley 27:03;

· Women U18 Brigitte Rice 20:50;

· Women U16 Zoe Clarke 22:32;

· Women U14 Brienna Coffey 26:56; Lily Clarke 26:58;

· Men U16 Mitchell Pointon 22:28 ItwasafunmorningattheannualHandicap Dayfor2023.Anewlocationforthisyear’scross country event, with our runners taking to the course at Lillydale Lake, with all athletes chasing a spot on the podium! The format provides athletes not normally the fastest in their races with an opportunity to be first over the line based on a head start given to them by our club handicapper. The aim being to have athletes crossing the line together. Thank you to the set up crew, course marshals and timers for a successful day. Well done to all the athletes for trying their best today. Podium results are:

· 500m Boys Equal Gold in a thrilling race, Finley Malcher and Angus Congreve.

· 500m Gold Emily Moore.

· 1000m Boys Gold Cody Buckland, Silver Byron Stark, Bronze Spencer Norman.

· 1000m Girls Gold Tillie Sommers, Silver Imogen McMillan, Bronze Lola Farmilo.

· 1500m Boys Gold Jake Buckland, Silver Micah Friend, Bronze Xander Sommers.

· 1500m Girls Gold Isla Haisma, Silver Caitlyn McKerlie, Bronze Hayley Nealon.

· 2000m Boys Gold Tobyn Harris, Silver Jonty Friend, Bronze Jay Burke.

· 2000m Girls Gold Mackenzie Graham, Silver Shazia Geisler, Bronze Meadow Anderson-Bonsor.

· 3000m Boys Gold Hamish McKerlie, Silver Zac McMillan, Bronze Ryder Holland.

· 3000m Girls Gold Brookley Horsburgh, Silver Elsie Mitchell.

· 3000m Men Gold Tim Anderson-Bonsor, Silver Bryan Ackerly.

· 3000m Women Gold Renee Horsley, Silver Katie Clarke.

Next week the Little Athletics team head to Lake Dewar for the Little Athletics Victoria State Cross Country Championships. There will not be a regular Saturday morning cross country, our next round being on 19 August at Margaret Lewis Reserve, Coldstream.

Training continues for all club members onTuesday from 5.30pm at Morrison Reserve and Thursday evenings from 5.30pm at Victoria Road Primary School gym.Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability. If you, or someone you know, wants to join in the fun of cross country email info@yarrarangesathletics. org.au for information about events and registration.

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

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Horse Talk SPORT

Tex’s big day out

By Ron Hottes

Wednesday 2 August:

Stroke and M. McGrann “Bag-day qualifier”--

One of my good friends, and a popular member atWGC, is this month’s bag qualifier for the McGrann trophy. Tex Van Der Kooi had a day out and eventually posted a very pleasing Nett 68, which earnt him the B-Grade voucher, too.

Well done, Tex; keep up that good form for the upcoming M/Pennant season.

The B-Grade R/up was Ken-Barratt, just returned from a 3-week break “up north.”

K.B’s Nett 72 was clearly a sign of better scores ahead!

In A-Grade, James-Campion won the voucher, with a Nett 72, although only on a tight C/back, with David-Hatt breathing down his neck, by also posting a 72!

(This also meant that Tex beat the field by 4 shots---a decisive win there! )

Balls only receded to 75. ( Damn again!!)

The NTP winners on this day were ClintonToohey,(3rd), Noel-Cross, (5th and 15th—a better return than your flakey Cats, Noel).

The other winners were Glenn-Forbes, (9th) and Michael-Eldridge, (12th).

Saturday 5 August:

Stroke & Monthly-Medal---With a smaller field than normal, there was only a straight-out

winner, and that was Joshua-Hin with a fine Nett 65, which, by the way, “bested” the rest of the field by a clear 3 shots.

Josh’s 65 meant that he took home the top voucher on offer, plus the August Medal.

(A good day’s work, wouldn’t you say, Josh---although the handicapper is looking closely at your overly generous 25 handicap!)

Trevor-Porter put together his best result for some time, posting a creditable Nett 68.

The ball rundown reached 72. NTP prizes went home with Craig-Staggard, (3rd), JoshHin, (5th), Peter-Fox, 9th), Robert-Ferguson, (12th) and to Seth-Spenceley, (15th).

Day to forget for Yarra Glen footy

By Alex Woods and David Ball

Reserves took the field ready for their clash and the Yarra Glen Reserves went in against the undefeated Warburton Millgrove with a depleted line up due to a number of senior injuries.

Warburton started in fine style to be 6 goals up by quarter time.

Yarra Glen kicked their only goal in the second quarter with Dayne Downward battling hard in defence and Ash Bryans lifting in the midfield.

Burras defence managed to keep them to only 2 points until the end.

The Burras had a big second half kicking 13.6 - The River Pigs weren’t able to add a goal .

The Burras came home with a big win of 1.3-9 to 23.13-151 with Damien Egan having another mega 10 goal game.

In Warburton Milgrove Cody Ladewig, Damien Egan, Jackson Blake, Marcel Kocher, Aaron Maguire and Zayden Crunden were all named top performers.

Joshua Read secured 3 goals to his name, Marcel kocher and Aaron Vaughan both kicked 2 and Luke Anderson, Caelan Flynn, Cody Ladewig, Aaron Maguire Hudson Semple and Matt Sidari all had 1 each.

Yarra Glen Best players were Ash Bryans, Dayne Downward, Regen Daniel, Lachlan Crawford, Dylan Jarvis and Daniel Galbraith. The Goalkicker was Drew Brodie.

Seniors footy finished off the day - Yarra Glen took on top side Warburton Millgrove at Yarra Glen in perfect conditions -they had

a strong start kicking 6.7 toYarra Glen’s 2.1 in the first quarter.

Both teams were missing their top midfielders, Ben Ashton for the River Pigs and Tom Barr for the Burras.

Warby didn’t miss a beat, outclassing Yarra Glen in the middle, giving their forwards plenty of opportunities.

They wasted a few, ending up with 6.7 at quarter time.

Yarra Glen kicked a couple of late goals to be 2.1.

The second quarter saw the Burras dominate in general play, but some extra pressure

from the River Pigs and some errant kicking only added 3.6 to Yarra Glen’s single goal.

Down by 48 points at half time, things only got worse for Yarra Glen, with leading goal kicker Josh Hawkins and a few others suffering injuries.

With a depleted line up the River Pigs came out and battled hard in the third quarter, Jayden Schille on one leg kicking 2 goals as the team added 3.3 for the quarter, with Warby adding another 5.

With no bench in the last the River Pigs struggled against a younger and fitter Warburton Millgrove outfit. They once again dominated and in the end, Yarra Glen were well beaten, 6.6 to 21.22.

Best Players for Yarra Glen were Ryan Smith, Tom Sullivan, Jim Marks, Richard Wyles, Tyler Ames and Callum Morison.

Goalkickers – Jayden Schille 2, Matt McCann, Josh Hawkins, Marcus Kikidopolous & Callum Morison.

Tyson Henry, Trent Elliott, Josh sharp, Nelson Aldridge, Liam Westlake and Brady Mitchell were all top performers for Warburton Millgrove.

Trent Elliott kicked 6 goals, LiamWestlake had 5, Brady Mitchell kicked 4 goals, Josh Sharp had 4 goals. Josh Dobson secured 2 and Blake Muir with 1.

Warburton Millgrove has its First Nations Traffic Management Indigenous Round next weekend, which is set to be a good and big day and next week Yarra Glen takes on thirdplaced Powelltown at Yarra Glen in the last home and away game for the season.

High quality play all round in round 14

By Alex Woods and David Ball

Round 14 is here and teams played in perfect conditions.

Warburton Milgrove went over to Yarra Glen on the weekend for four netball and two football games.

D Grade started off the morning. A tough and close game throughout this morning but the Burras always remained a few goals in front.

12-13 was the half time score. A few changes were made and the Burras were able to score 8 more goals to Yarra Glen’s 7.

The last quarter, the Burras were able to get hold of the game and Yarra Glen struggled to convert their opportunities in the last as the Burras went on to win by 7, Yarra Glen 21 to Warburton 28. Georgia Wyatt, Tayah Humphrey and Cam Partel were all named top performers for the Burras with both Tayah and Cam scoring 14 goals each. Best Players for Yarra Glen were Chantelle Farley, Maddie Oultram and Sam Chetcuti.

C Grade took the court next in what was set to be another tough game, the battle between top side Warburton Millgrove and 2nd placed Yarra Glen.

Yarra Glen got the early jump being 3 goals up at quarter time and kept the momentum going, being 6 goals up at half time.

It wasn’t the Burras day today, going down by 7 goals at the final siren. Whilst Warby fought back in the last, Yarra Glen held on to

Lovelyconditionsandhighqualityplayall around.

win 38 to 31 and to take over top spot.

Best Yarra Gleb players were Ash Shanks, Courtney Cochrane and Sarah Orlandi.

Ruby Kelly, Melanie Hancock and Cam Holland were all named best for Warby with Mel Hancock putting up 18 goals, Cam Holland with 5 and Ella Meerkotter with 8.

B Grade took the court next in another tough start - Yarra Glen B Grade sitting 4th took on 3rd placed Warburton Millgrove, having been well beaten by them in their previous 2 encounters.

Yarra Glen got the early jump but the girls mangled to bring it back to 2 goals by quarter time. Yarra Glen kept the lead and were 3 goals up by half time. It was goal for goal early in the third until Yarra Glen finished off well to extend their lead to 5 at the last break.

They shot 13 goals to our 11 in the 3rd quarter and had a 5 goal leading heading into the last quarter. The Burras managed to bring the game into their end more but it wasn’t enough,

they went down by 2 goals.

Warby lifted in the last but were held off by a determined Yarra Glen who ended up winning in a tight finish, 44 to 42. Yarra Glen best players were Casey Wandin Collins, Jasmin Wood and Meaghan Carter.

Tegan Butcher, Chelsea Barnard and Jordana Butcher were all named best on for Warby with Jordana Butcher shooting 4 goals and Alex Woods with 18.

A Grade finished off the netball for the day, taking on ladder leaders Warburton-Millgrove who gained had a 2 goal lead at quarter time.

They managed to stretch it out to 9 goals by half time putting up 22 goals in the second quarter to Yarra Glen’s 15. In a high quality game both sides moved and controlled the ball well and in a goal for goal first half Yarra Glen had edged ahead to be 1 goal up at the main break. Momentum kept going throughout the game, with Warburton Milgrove gaining a 15 goal lead by the last break.

The last quarter was a high quality goal for goal contest, with both sides scoring 13 goals.

Going down 51 to 66, Yarra Glen showed for 3 quarters they could match it with the best.

By the final siren the Burras had secured the win having a final score of 51-66.

Ashlyn Elliott, Bianca Daniels and Karly Wappett all had great games with Karly shooting 35 goals and Bianca with 31 for Warburton Milgrove. Yarra Glen best players were Lara Wandin Collins, Gemma Ryan & Alana McGurgan.

By Anita Prowse

This time of year is crucial to keep those founder-prone under control, the following article from RSPCA highlights some of the issues.

Laminitis (also termed founder) is inflammation of the laminae of the foot –the soft tissue structures that attach the coffin or pedal bone of the foot to the hoof wall. The inflammation and damage to the laminae causes extreme pain and leads to instability of the coffin bone in the hoof.

In more severe cases it can lead to complete separation of and rotation of the pedal bone within the hoof wall.

Initial (acute) symptoms

Although all four feet can be affected, the forelimbs are more frequently and more severely affected than the hindlimbs

Affected horses are reluctant to move and adopt a ‘sawhorse’ stance where they rock their weight back off the more badly affected forelimbs

Laminitic horses will often lie down

It will be difficult for you to pick up one forelimb due to the severe pain of the other supporting forelimb

The hoof wall and coronary band (the soft tissue around the top of the hoof) are often warm to touch

There is often pain on application of hoof testers (a tool your vet or farrier uses to assess hoof pain) – particularly over the toe area

Digital pulses are strong and rapid (the digital pulse is found at the back of your horse’s fetlock). If you are uncertain how to check this, ask your vet to demonstrate.

Chronic symptoms

These are found in cases where the inflammation has existed for some time and structural changes are now evident: There are laminitic “rings” on the surface of affected hooves which correspond to previous episodes of laminitis

The hoof wall takes on a dish/slipper shape with long toes

Where the pedal bone has rotated in the hoof, there is a bulge in the sole corresponding to the rotated bone The horse has restricted movement in its front legs and will tend to place more weight on its back legs, often described as a ‘laminitic stance’.

Causes

Over-feeding fat ponies is a very common cause, particularly during the spring months after recent rain. The soluble carbohydrate content increases in grasses and clovers after rain. When ingested, this causes metabolic changes that result in altered blood flow to the laminae of the foot.

Other causes include:

· Over-feeding grain or grain engorgement when a horse gets into a feed shed/bin

· Retained placenta in post-foaling mares

· Septicaemic conditions

· Obesity (a common predisposing factor in laminitic ponies)

· Lameness which prevents weight bearing in one leg leading to laminitis in another supporting limb

· Trauma resulting from excess work in unshod horses on hard ground, or from over-enthusiastic hoof trimming

Risk Group

Fat ponies and their cross-breeds are most predisposed to laminitis. However, any horse suffering a condition mentioned above may also be affected.

Horses which show signs of previous episodes of laminitis (e.g. hoof rings or slipper-shaped feet) are predisposed to future episodes because they have fewer healthy laminae remaining to support the pedal bone.

Spring is when most episodes of laminitis due to over-feeding occur.

Diagnosis

If you suspect your horse has laminitis, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Picture:JAYNEBASHFORD

WarburtonMillgroveSeniorPlayerBrady Mitchell. Picture:SUPPLIED