Mail - Mt Evelyn Star Mail - 15th August 2023

Vietnam Vets feted

The Vietnam Veterans Association Of Australia, Outer Eastern Melbourne SubBranch, marched through the streets in Healesville on Sunday 13 August to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Australian troops exiting the war in Vietnam.

In the lead up to Vietnam Veterans Day on 18 August, each year a memorial march and service is held to remember and honour the sacrifice of the men and women who served during the conflict in Vietnam. The march was attended by local scout groups, CFA brigades and a pipe band.

To see more from the event, turn to page 13

Art-life connection

Reaching its final weeks in Victoria, the National Photographic Portrait Prize (NPPP) is set to leave the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum in early September meaning it is the last chance to see this incredible showcase of talent and beauty in the local area.

As the only Victorian venue on the national exhibition tour, Museum Exhibitions Curator Maddie Reece said it is quite the honour to host such a high calibre of work acrossThe Box Gallery and Chambers Gallery.

Using the Museum to its full potential, Reece said it was important to give each work enough space “so that each work could be appreciated individually but also has a whole”.

“The works on display in the NPPP 2022 exhibition were created from mid 2021 to mid 2022 and they depict a huge diversity of voices and experiences,” she said.

Telling the stories of First Nations people, women, the LGBTQIA+ community and families, Reece was able to separate these themes

to create flow and an arrangement that told of individual and collective experiences.

With two Yarra Ranges based artists selected as finalists for the prize, Reece said “we are very lucky to be surrounded by a hugely talented creative community”.

The NPPP shows the human experiences that many or most would be able to identify with in some capacity and it is this, Reece said, that makes the exhibition so inspiring for viewers.

“It captures a myriad of people from across the nation who are trying to find their places and their identity in society as a result of their own life experiences – sometimes these stories and portraits are incredibly sad and heart wrenching, but some are truly humbling, inspiring and empowering,” she said.

To read more about the exhibition and its curation, turn to page 16

Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson marches alongside fellow Vietnam veterans in a memorial march in Healesville.

Picture: TANYA FAULKNER

Fowles on the outer

By Tara Cosoleto, AAP

The Victorian Premier has shut the door on a Labor MP’s return to the parliamentary party, saying his forced resignation amid assault allegations was not temporary.

Daniel Andrews sought Ringwood MP Will Fowles’ resignation last Saturday after referring allegations of a “serious assault” to Victoria Police.

Mr Fowles resigned but denied the allegations, saying he expected his name would be cleared and his resignation from the parliamentary Labor Party would only be temporary.

But the Premier denied that would be the case.

“Resignations are not in my experience temporary,” Mr Andrews said on Tuesday.

“This was not a leave of absence, this was not a suspension.

“Resignation was sought and resignation was offered... it’s done, he’s no longer a member of the parliamentary Labor Party.”

Victoria Police confirmed it received the government’s referral but the alleged victim is yet to make a formal complaint.

The state opposition wrote to Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC) secretary Jeremi

Moule requesting he investigate the allegations against Will Fowles and publicly report the outcome.

In a one-page letter, obtained by AAP, the opposition’s upper house leader Georgie Crozier and manager of opposition business James Newbury said Victorian government employees must be safe at work.

Opposition Leader John Pesutto indicated the coalition had not spoken to the alleged victim before sending the referral to Mr Moule.

“This is not our place,” he told reporters on Thursday.

“We fully expect that any investigation that DPC might undertake, or any other body, will fully respect the anonymity of any potential victims of the matter and any potential respondents to a complaint.”

Mr Fowles is still the chair of the parliament’s electoral matters committee but was a no-show at parliament on Thursday, when the electoral matters committee began examining last year’s state election.

As committee chair, Mr Fowles is set to pocket an extra $19,883 this financial year on top of his base MP salary of $198,839.

The premier said Mr Fowles should step down from that position.

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

“I would have thought if you formed the view that it was appropriate to resign, when asked to, from the Victorian parliamentary Labor Party, then I would think it’s appropriate to resign as the chairman of that committee,” he said.

Mr Andrews said the decision rested with Mr Fowles and the committee.

He would not comment on the allegations, saying it would be inappropriate given the matter was referred to police.

In 2019, Mr Fowles kicked through the lower half of a door at the Abode Hotel in Canberra during an argument with staff about his luggage.

At the time, Mr Fowles said his actions were driven by anxiety because he wasn’t able to access luggage containing his medication.

He took a leave of absence for three months to deal with mental health issues before returning to parliament.

The 45-year-old father of four was elected in Ringwood with 57.5 per cent of the two-party preferred vote.

He previously held the seat of Burwood. · Lifeline 13 11 14 · beyondblue 1300 22 4636

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.

Drugs and firearms seized

Firearms and drugs have been seized after detectives made an arrest and searched a house in Chirnside Park.

Police observed a Honda motorcycle travelling along the Maroondah Highway in Chirnside Park, where the motorcycle allegedly had no registration plates and appeared to have been painted with pressure pack cans. Officers intercepted the motorcycle at the Ringwood bypass about 9am on Thursday 3 August.

It’s alleged that officers located and seized a sawn off .22 bolt action handgun, ammunition, cannabis, ice, a knife, a high powered laser and a flare which were in the rider’s possession. A 33-year-old Burwood man was arrested at the scene.

A search warrant was then carried out at a premises in Chirnside Park on 3 August where two stolen motorcycles and weapons were located and seized.

A second warrant was also conducted at a property in Burwood on 3 August where a further two firearms, ammunition, stolen goods and drugs were located and seized.

Yarra Ranges Crime Investigation Unit and Whitehorse Crime Investigation Unit charged the man with a number of offences including possess traffickable quantity of firearms, prohibited person possess firearm, and traffick methylamphetamine.

He has been remanded to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 27 October.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam/CCTV footage or with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Kangaroo Ground fatal collision

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash which occurred at Kangaroo Ground on Thursday night.

Emergency services were called to ElthamYarra Glen Road about 11pm after reports a car had crashed and caught fire.

Fire crews extinguished the blaze and the yet to be identified driver was found to be deceased.The exact cause of the collision is yet to be determined.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Rail safety week

All aboard it’s rail safety week and transit police and protective service officers are out engaging with commuters and pedestrians to raise awareness of rail safety practices. A moment of distraction around trains can change your life forever.

Expect the unexpected and watch out for trains and trams on our metropolitan and regional networks. When travelling, transit staff encourage people to take these steps to ensure they stay rail safe:

· Take off your headphones when walking near the tracks

· Don’t rush to beat the gates

· Stand back behind the yellow line on platforms

· Hold on or take a seat where available when travelling.

· Stand back. Look up. Stay rail safe. Learn more about staying safe around public transport at : https://www.police.vic.gov.au/ public-transport-safety

Say yes!

WillFowlesdeniesallegationsmadeagainsthim,sayingheexpectshisnamewillbecleared.

Picture:JAMESROSS/AAPPHOTOS

Rocket lights up the sky

By Tyler Wright

Flashes of light were spotted across Melbourne skies overnight on Monday 7 August, as remains of a Russian rocket were seen re-entering the earth’s atmosphere in southeastern Victoria.

An Australian Space Agency spokesperson said the flashes of light were likely the remnants of a Soyuz-2 rocket launched from Plesetsk Cosmodrome earlier in the evening.

“According to Russian authorities the launch placed a new generation ‘GLONASSK2’ global navigation satellite into orbit,” the spokesperson said.

“This launch was notified and remnants of the rocket were planned to safely re-enter the atmosphere into the ocean off the south-east coast of Tasmania.”

The space junk created a comet-like effect for people across Melbourne who spotted the phenomenon and later felt the earth shake after a subsequent sonic boom.

The Mooroolbark Community Facebook page lit up with comments and questions about where the vibrations and sound came from.

People spread from Diane Crescent to Bellara Drive felt it, with windows and doors rattling.

Clare Lever, who lives on the border of Monbulk andThe Patch, spotted the object flying across the sky just before midnight.

“I was putting rubbish in the bin....behind [my partner] up in the sky I saw it start to come into view; and I was watching it and saying to him ‘turn around and look in the sky, honey,’” Ms Lever said.

“I thought, ‘that looks like a shooting star, but it’s going for too long.’”

Ms Lever said the comet was visible for about 40 seconds.

“I filmed from about maybe 20 seconds ahead of it, and then we were still outside talking about it because we were quite impressed,” she said.

“Five minutes later is when we heard the massive boom that shook the house…the dogs were not happy and then every dog in the valley I could hear all starting to howl and carry on.

“I’ve not seen anything that long in the sky before.”

On Ms Lever’s Facebook post sharing a video of the spectacle, people flocked to comment on their love of the footage.

“Comet? Meteor or UFO?” Rakkhi Joy wrote.

“About 12am I heard a boom/rumble and heard the house creak,” another commenter, Eadie Spinebill, penned.

“I waited for a minor tremor, but didn’t feel anything. Tried to look online to see if anyone saw/heard/felt anything, but didn’t see anything online until I woke up this morning.”

Mount Burnett Observatory’s Jacquie Milner said it is not the first time a Russian rocket launch has put space junk over Australia in recent years.

“We were lucky it was clear over southeastern Australia and so many people saw it,

” Ms Milner said.

“It came across northwesternVictoria, right over Geelong, and then the peninsula and then over northeastern Tasmania and Hobart.

“The bang and the noise was the sonic boom from re-entry, and occasionally sonic booms can feel like earthquakes and be picked up as seismic activity.”

Ms Milner said the occurrence was “not a meteor shower”.

“Meteor showers are where the earth goes through a debris stream left over from a comet. It can take several days and it will appear like meteors are radiating from a common area in the sky,” she said.

“It’s only when you draw plots and track them all back or you do a composite picture that you can actually see where they’re all coming from in the sky.

“Breaking up into hundreds of bits is a typical space junk feature as well.”

The Australian Space Agency will continue to monitor the outcomes of this re-entry with government partners.

The rocket reentered the earth’s atmosphere after being launched from Plesetsk Cosmodrome earlier in the evening of Monday 7 August.

Clare Lever captured the remains of a Russian rocket shooting through the air.

Pictures: CLARE LEVER

Forum tackles YR crime

By Mikayla van Loon

Crime rates across the Yarra Ranges police service area are “stable” but impacts of youth crime, family violence and road trauma still flow into the community.

At a Victoria Police CommSafe forum on Wednesday 9 August some of the state’s highest ranking officers, as well as those from Eastern Division, gave an overview of crime in the region.

Deputy Commissioner Neil Paterson said these CommSafe forums will happen right across the state and are part of the neighbourhood policing initiative brought in by Chief Commissioner Shane Patton.

“This is absolutely key for Shane as Chief Commissioner, I maintain myself as one of the deputy commissioners in Victoria Police, our commitment to neighbourhood policing,” he said.

“Our commitment to listening to the community and not delivering the police service we think you need but the police service that you tell us you want and that we can deliver to you.”

SuperintendentandInvestigationResponse Manager for Eastern Division Mick Martin said despite there being, in recent times,“problems with gang activity”, thefts and “internet type deceptions”, the crime investigation unit (CIU) has driven down this kind of activity.

The figures show that crime in the Yarra Ranges is sitting at 2.1 per cent for the 12 months from March 2022 to March 2023.

“When you compare that to the division, ED2, it’s sitting at 6.8 per cent and you compare that to the average in the eastern region where it sits at 12.2 per cent and the state is 10.7 per cent,” Detective Senior Sergeant Stephan Sheahan said.

“So you look at our figure of 2.1 stable, you think well that’s comfortable, but it’s never comfortable. It’s always trending up and down.”

Although seeing decreases in thefts from motor vehicles and other motor vehicle related thefts, Dect Senior Sgt Sheahan said 40 per cent of vehicle thefts involve unlocked cars.

Perhaps more concerning was the criminal damage occurring at the hand of young people, noted to be mostly present in areas near train station precincts like Upwey and Mooroolbark.

Criminal damage includes things like graffiti and property damage.

Commander Karen Nyholm said the definition of youth withinVictoria Police is someone aged between 10 and 24 years old.

While youth offending has also seen a decline in the last 12 months, Commander Nyholm said what is concerning is the rate and seriousness of their crimes.

“The unfortunate thing is those youth that are offending are offending more seriously and escalating to a rapid and serious amount of crimes in a short space of time,” she said.

“So rather than edging their way into it, sometimes they’re going to the serious crime straight off.”

Aggravated burglaries is one of these more

serious crimes that police are seeing both locally and state-wide being committed by young people.

“Predominantly we’re seeing youth steal car keys and take cars for joy rides, which in itself brings further risk of damage to the community,” Commander Nyholm said.

For people on the ground, particularly the wellbeing coordinators at high schools, questions were raised about the effect of drugs on young people and the increase in addiction to vapes.

One wellbeing coordinator raised concerns about the increase they are experiencing in parents using drugs and alcohol which is in turn having a negative impact on the children.

DC Paterson said preventing youth crime begins with proactive interventions and engaging them in the right supports early on.

“We know the longer you can keep a young person out of the formal criminal justice system, the greater the likelihood they won’t remain in the criminal justice system,” he said.

“If we’re fronting younger kids to court in the formal criminal justice system, the stats tell us they will likely remain encaged in the formal criminal justice system, their trajectory to offending will remain.”

Yarra Ranges Proactive Policing Unit Acting Senior Sergeant Karen Barns said with over 50 programs run in schools already this year, working towards that diversion of crime

is a top priority.

A question asked by a community member addressed the seeming lack of visual representation of police on the streets as a deterrent to crime.

DC Paterson said with around 800 vacancies across the police force needing to be filled and around 800 officers out on WorkCover mostly for mental health injuries, police presence isn’t as full as they would like it.

Family violence continues to be a key concern for theYarra Ranges, with detectives from the Family Violence Unit dealing around 10 per cent of incidents reported in the state.

Detective Senior Sergeant Shaun Allen said the number of intervention orders has risen but from his perspective that means more people are reporting violence in the home, meaning more people are potentially safe from that violence.

Around 400 family violence incidents are reported to police each month in the Yarra Ranges.

The interlaced effect of family violence is the normalisation of this offending when children grow up in a household where violence has occurred.

“We’re now looking to make sure the referrals and support is put in place for those children so they don’t feel disconnected from a family home, so they don’t join gangs, so they don’t go out and break into houses looking for

cars.We’re looking at a much broader picture,” Dect Senior Sgt Allen said.

Hearing from the audience, it became clear that local family violence support services are seeing an uptake in young boys and men attacking their mothers in the home.

So too is an increase in elder abuse where children usually take financial advantage of their elderly parents.

Another subject of major concern was the road death toll with an increase in distracted and dangerous driving, as well as aggression.

Superintendent of Road Policing David Griffin said with 177 lives lost on Victorian roads, up 35 on last year, as at Wednesday, he was sure 99 per cent would have been preventable.

Eastern Division Two Highway Patrol Acting Senior Sergeant Andrew Sands said the unit is seeing a spate of hooning in the Dandenong Ranges on Friday and Saturday nights, as well as speeding across the three major arterial roads of Melba, Maroondah and Warburton Highways.

From the forum, DC Paterson said the main takeaways for police were related to connecting the right programs in the right areas so schools have access to support in more remote towns, as well as looking into the benefits of police engaging young people in clubs and sport.

L-R: Assistant Commissioner Tony Langdon, Commander Karen Nyholm, Superintendent David Griffin and Superintendent Simon Stevens.

Housing submission made by council in state inquiry

Yarra Ranges Council has made a submission to the state Inquiry into the Rental and Housing Affordability Crisis, aiming to highlight some of the pressing housing challenges in the region.

Council recognises that access to suitable, secure, and affordable housing is crucial in establishing a diverse community that can actively engage in all aspects of society.

In the submission to the State governmentled inquiry Council identified several key contributing factors including:

· Significant loss of rental stock during Covid.

· Victorian rental legislation and new regulations

· Interest Rate Rises and State Taxation.

· The mismatch between current housing stock and demand

· A lack of government investment in Social Housing

· Planning Legislation Challenges

· Short-Stay and Key Worker Accommodation.

In its submission, Council emphasised the urgency of addressing the rental and housing affordability crisis and presented some actionable solutions to these factors for consideration.

Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child urged the State Government to take deci-

sive actions, including targeted investments in social housing, and streamlined planning legislation to safeguard rental markets and support local communities.

“Our submission to the Inquiry aims to shed light on the urgent need for multifaceted action to address this crisis and protect the wellbeing of our residents,” Cr Child said.

“The housing affordability crisis is affecting families, workers, and vulnerable individuals across Yarra Ranges.

“Council are limited in the impact it can have, which is why we have made a submission calling on the State Government to in-

vest in social housing and provide targeted support to ensure a brighter future for those struggling to find a stable home.”

“Through the Yarra Ranges Draft Housing Strategy that will be exhibited for public consultation later this year, we propose to pursue diverse approaches to improve housing supply and affordability that caters to all residents. But, clearer guidance and support from the government is crucial – particularly in planning processes - to help us meet the growing demand and make progress in addressing the housing crisis.”

Submissions closed on 7 July 2023 with the Committee to report back to Parliament by 17 November, 2023.

Remembering lives lost

By Mikayla van Loon

The effects of homelessness can have devastating impacts particularly on people sleeping rough and in some cases results in avoidable deaths.

In an effort to remember the lives of those who have been taken too soon from living without a roof over their heads, Holy Fools founder and CEO Neal Taylor, alongside celebrant Jenny Keddell began holding a memorial service in their honour.

Since 2018, minus the years of the pandemic, Mr Taylor and Ms Keddell have met in Melba Park during HomelessnessWeek to light a candle and say a few words about the people who have died from homelessness.

On Tuesday 8 August a small group of people met and did just that.

“The main purpose of today’s memorial service is to honour and remember those amongst us who lived, loved, laughed, cried, worked, played and died homeless,” Ms Keddell said.

“Those people we have befriended, loved, admired, been helped by in a myriad of ways. May they now be free, strong, proud of who they have been knowing that they are being mourned and missed.”

Ms Keddell said the memorial is also about acknowledging that as a community “we have the ability to impact the lives of others”.

“We all breathe the same air, we walk the same streets. We all deserve to be treated with dignity and respect,” she said.

“Too many people have died too soon because they did not have a place to call home.”

For Mr Taylor, he has encountered numerous rough sleepers during his time running the outreach support at Holy Fools, meaning he knows many people who have died from its effects.

“I can see faces more than I can remember some of the names. There’s about a dozen guys over 15 years [who have died] not all from be-

ing homeless,” he said.

One man Mr Taylor can recall who was a heroin addict who eventually got himself clean, ended up

“He went to prison, got cleaned up, came out and was doing really well. He hung out at a friend’s house, overdosed and died,” he said.

“So while he wasn’t homeless, he was one of the crowd of the guys that we worked with, just some of them are really silly, preventable deaths.”

Another man who had an addiction to alcohol and ended up stealing methylated spirits from the supermarket which landed him in hospital, Mr Taylor said was a particularly sad story.

“He was discharged quite healthy. He stayed

with one of our volunteers and was doing really well for himself but secretly he had started back on the booze and he died underneath the Alexandra Public Hall after consuming two bottles of vodka.

“It was the middle of winter so he either died from hypothermia or from overdose of alcohol.

“He had a family with kids but alcohol was his issue, where he would stay on the street because it was easier to drink alcohol.

“His funeral was particularly sad because the family were there, remembering him. He was a good guy and he was always concerned about other people.”

Anchor Rapid Response senior worker Talia Appleby said unfortunately for many people sleeping rough, the choice comes down to their addiction or having a home.

“Some of our rough sleepers choose that because the rooming houses aren’t great around here,” she said.

“But also, some people will choose their addiction, it could be gambling, drugs, alcohol, even smoking now, over accommodation because rooming houses are $260 a week.”

Even if a person enters living on the streets without an addiction, Ms Appleby said it is more likely they will end up with one because of the conditions, especially for women.

“A lot of the women we work with who are rough sleeping, they’ll use alcohol or some kind of stimulant drug overnight to keep them awake for safety. They’ll sleep during the day because it’s safer.

“It’s unsafe for men as well but there’s obviously an extra element with women rough sleeping. So a lot of people who didn’t have a drug or alcohol problem beforehand do tend to develop one because it’s just keeping yourself safe.”

Mr Taylor said even if some of these people wanted to seek help, sometimes just finding the right service or support can be a challenge.

“When you become homeless, you don’t

know what to do. There’s no ABC on how to be homeless and people are finding it tough once they become homeless or when a set of circumstances happen on what they need to do to help themselves,” he said.

Ms Appleby said it’s in those instances that a drop in centre in Lilydale or elsewhere in the Yarra Ranges could make a huge difference.

“[A place] where people can actually go and so it’s a community, it’s a belonging place. We’re never going to be able to take away the drugs and alcohol, that’s not our role to do,” she said.

“There’s obviously a reason they use and and choose to do that but by creating community and a sense of family for them it gives them more opportunity to see in themselves ‘Oh, maybe I don’t need to do it this way’.”

Ms Keddell said for these people who enter rough sleeping, “there’s a big difference between being alone and lonely”.

“Homeless does not mean nameless and homeless does not mean roofless. A home is more than a physical structure. It is a place where individuals or families find a sense of belonging, safety, comfort, and identity,” she said.

Ms Appleby said taking the stigma and stereotype out of being homeless would perhaps prevent more people slipping into that experience because they might be more comfortable in asking for help.

That also stems into ensuring the support and skills begin at a young age so when they become adults they don’t fall into those experiences of homelessness.

“We all make questionable choices but a lot of us are lucky enough to have support, to have somebody there, it only takes one person or to be given the skills to support yourself during your adolescence,” she said.

“Growing up, a lot of the people we work with I don’t think ever got the chance to develop those skills and some people don’t have anybody to rely on and I think that’s a big difference.”

Celebrant Jenny Keddell and Holy Fools CEO Neal Taylor have been holding a memorial service since 2018. Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

HOMELESSNESS WEEK Great need in rental crisis

By Tanya Steele

As winter continues on the volunteers at the Yarra Valley Winter Shelter support people in need who are experiencing homelessness, striving to fill a great need in the community.

People who have accessed the service and are experiencing homelessness say their greatest challenges lie in things like being utterly ignorant of the system, the housing crisis and the stigma of being homeless.

“Not knowing where to start and the system is difficult to navigate, especially if you have mental health issues,” they said.

“There’s a gap in support for men.”

Managing Director Jenny Willetts from Stable One said the Yarra Valley Sleepout continues to provide a service that is greatly needed by people experiencing homelessness.

“We knew there was a need for it, there is no crisis accommodation in the Yarra Valley,” she said.

“Homelessness and loneliness go hand in hand, the people we meet have often got nobody in their lives anymore.”

The group has worked together across denominations since 2016 to open local churches in winter for people to have temporary accommodation options in the colder parts of the year.

“Winter shelter is churches that open up their buildings to let people come in and have a meal at night, dormitory style, sleeping in

the church on camp beds and mattresses, and then breakfast the next morning, then off they go, and we open up again the next night,” Ms Willetts said.

“It’s not just people from your church that can be involved, so community members who just want to do something can get involved as well,” she said.

Ms Willetts said the operation takes a lot of volunteers and the organisation is always looking for more people to lend a hand.

“It’s 122 shifts a week to fill,” she said.

A daytime support centre also offers lunch, laundry and shower facilities and additional

opportunities for connection and referrals as part of the program.

The initiative has reached across community and church denominations to pull together and MsWillets said it’s a great thing because they couldn’t do it on their own.

“For example, there’s a church in Wandin with a very aged congregation, and small, maybe 30 people, but they’ve got a great building, and they stuck a shower in it,” she said.

The concept and planning have spread throughoutVictoria and Queensland with nine other programs beginning in other areas.

“It’s grown a lot since we began, there’s a

real need everywhere,” she said.

Ms Willetts has said that the people in the community experiencing homelessness have shared with her that they would like the broader community to understand the position they are in.

“There is an absolute loss of pride and humanity and there is this terrible way people look at you and the judgement they have,” they said.

“We’re all vulnerable - it doesn’t take much to put you in a difficult situation - if you don’t already have mental health issues, you will end up with them.”

More than 150 aware residents take the Cerini walk

By Tanya Steele

Upper Yarra community have united for long term solutions to homelessness with an awareness event highlighting the growing need for the issue to be tackled at a community level.

Over 150 residents young and old attended the Cerini walk on Sunday 13 August to raise awareness for community members experiencing homelessness.

Vice President of the Warburton Advancement League, David Pratt said the Cerini walk was there to highlight the plight of people experiencing homelessness in the Upper Yarra area,

“It allows the community to voice their concerns for the lack of public housing without it being seen as a protest.,” he said.

“We ask the government to listen that there needs to be more public and social and affordable housing, in all areas, including the Upper Yarra.”

The community met at 11am and walked the rail trail from Millgrove CFA to the Cerini Centre in Warburton.

“It was an acknowledgement that something needs to change,” Mr Pratt said.

Mr Pratt said the community have really acknowledged the need for change and the mindset towards social housing is evolving as well.

“The mindset changes and affirms social housing is needed and says I’m okay if it’s next door,” he said.

“But even one person housed is what we classify as a success story, but we know that there are many, many 1000s of success stories that we need to see.”

The issue of homelessness can feel daunting to approach but Mr Pratt said in order to resolve the issues from it that they need organisations like Homes Victoria, to listen to communities and hear the different solutions that every community needs.

“Its long term housing, some it’s interim housing and some its crisis housing and there’s no one size fits all and what suits Warburton may not suit Yara Junction,” he said.

“Involving the community in these solutions is going to be critical if we’re going to deliver the 6000 plus homes that is necessary for the many, many years to come.”

The Cerini walk is dedicated to Father Charles Cerini, who began the original St Joseph’s Primary School in the Cerini Centre.

Father Cerini marched 35 students from Yarra Junction to Warburton in 19600 to protest the local school bus not taking children up to the school from the high school after it moved to Yarra Junction.

The current Cerini center project aims to provide twelve homes for families for periods of between one and five years.

“Surveys have told us, the critical need in our area is for interim housing for families who know through no fault of their own, may

have to move out because houses are being sold and you can’t upstart kids jobs, all of them and you’re out of your community,” Mr Pratt said.

“The main focus is social and public housing that needs to be delivered for the people who live in those communities, for those communities, that’s where their support networks are,” he said.

Mayor Jim Child attended the event and said that he wholeheartedly supports the mission of the Cerini project.

“So many people nationwide sleep rough and we in the Yarra Ranges are not exempt from that,” he said.

“It’s very important to get the council involved at every level and support the issue long term.”

Once a registered housing provider comes on board to the cause then the project can advance further with applications into Homes Victoria.

Mr Pratt said that the community has spoken, and has said that we need to look after and provide social and public housing within our community.

“Getting another step closer is the key,”he said.

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The community gathered for the powerful campaign. Picture: MICHAEL FAHEY

Volunteers are an essential part of the sleepout operation, especially overnight.

Simple dorm-style accommodation is offered in a number of churches in the coldest parts of the Victorian winter. Picture: SUPPLIED

Since the introduction of free calls, there have been a staggering over 40 million calls made, seeing demand more than double.

Across critical helplines is where we’ve seen some of the sharpest rises in calls, with key increases over the past 12-months including:

· 12,000 plus calls made to Lifeline, up by more than 30 per cent from the previous year.

· 12,000 plus calls made to Headspace, up by over 28 per cent on the previous year.

· 85,000 plus calls to Centrelink’s reporting line, up by over 30 per cent on previous year.

· 250,000 plus calls directed to emergency services, up by 15 per cent on previous year. Payphones are more than just a way to make a call. For Australians experiencing vulnerable circumstances, they are a lifeline.They provide a link to critical services, as well as essential connections with family and friends. Telstra is seeing the importance of payphones grow more and more each year, and are glad they can provide this important lifeline during times when it is needed most.

Payphones have seen an increase in uptake from people looking to access support services. Pictures: TELSTRA

“Payphones becoming free has given people access to services that they’re in desperate need of, with a lot of people able to connect with housing and support services. It’s fantastic that they can just go straight to a payphone and they know they don’t need coins, they don’t need money, they can just jump on the phone and get support,” Salvation Army Commanding Officer Brendan Nottle said.

“Payphones are also a wonderful way of people connecting and a lot of people we work with right across the nation are suffering not just from poverty but also social poverty. They don’t have access to family and friends so payphones are a great way of connecting them with people who care.

“There’s been a 15 per cent increase in the number of people accessing the Salvo

helplines through payphones so this initiative is really important because it says to people that help is there, but more than that help the ability to connect with that help is also there.”

In addition to free payphone calls and texts, 3,300 payphones are equipped with free Wi-Fi access and are in works to make this service available across even more of our payphones.

“We’re committed to helping keep one million Australians in vulnerable circumstances stay connected every year. For anyone seeking support, we offer a range of assistance options like our Top Up program in partnership with Infoxchange, flexible payment terms and longterm account holds to provide help when it’s needed most,” a spokesperson said.

To find the closest payphone to you, you can head to www.telstra.com.au/find-

Payphones are free to use, with some offering free WiFi access.

us?search=payphone and enter your location to see a list and map of your closest options. It will also be able to tell you which phones support our free Wi-Fi if it’s internet connectivity you need, rather than to make a call. Making calls on our payphones is as simple as dialling the number you’d like to reach, but if you need a hand connecting to Wi-Fi, here are the basics:

· Turn on your device’s Wi-Fi if it isn’t already on

· Select the “free Telstra Wi-Fi” in your Wi-Fi settings

The Telstra Wi-Fi portal will launch automatically where you’ll just need to agree to the terms and conditions.

That’s it! You’re online.

Ferntree

Friday 18th 7.30pm

Saturday 19th 2.30pm & 6.30pm

Sunday 20th 11.00am & 3.00pm

& HOMELESSNESS WEEK

Monday 21st*

Tuesday 22nd*

Monday 28th* FERNTREE GULLY FERNTREE GULLY HOTEL CAR PARK 1130 BURWOOD HIGHWAY,

Thursday 24th* Friday 25th 7.30pm Saturday 26th 2.30pm & 6.30pm Sunday 27th 11.00am & 3.00pm * Indicates No Show that day!

29th* Wednesday 30th* Thursday 31st* Friday 1st 7.30pm Saturday 2nd 2.30pm & 6.30pm Sunday 3rd 11.00am & 3.00pm Monday 4th* Tuesday 5th* Wednesday 6th* Thursday 7th* Friday 8th 7.30pm Saturday 9th FERNTREE GULLY FERNTREE GULLY HOTEL CAR PARK 1130 BURWOOD HIGHWAY,

10th

Bikies jailed for murder

By Karen Sweeney, AAP

Paul Virgona’s family will likely never have an answer for why the grocer was murdered in cold blood on a Melbourne freeway nearly four years ago.

But they do have some closure, with his Mongols bikie killers ordered to serve decades behind bars for a crime only explained as a case of mistaken identity.

Aaron Ong was jailed for 35 years on Thursday by Victorian Supreme Court Justice Christopher Beale, while Josh Rider was sentenced to 30 years.

They had staked out Mr Virgona’s Croyden home for hours before following him as he left to pick up the day’s fruit and vegetable orders for his business at 2am on November 9, 2019.

On Eastlink, their stolen Mercedes pulled alongside Mr Virgona’s van and 11 shots were fired by the passenger from a semi-automatic handgun.

It’s not clear which of the men was the shooter and who was driving.

At least seven shots struck Mr Virgona, whose van then spun out of control.

He was found dead by police behind the wheel, his phone illuminated in his lap.

“We are relieved of the outcome and that it’s finally behind us now,” Antonietta Virgona said outside court.

“Paul was an amazing person - he was a loyal, hardworking man who, in all this, was innocent and didn’t deserve it.”

Mr Virgona’s family packed the court’s public gallery for the hearing, seated just along from a dozen supporters of Ong and Rider.

There was nothing to explain why he had been targeted and killed.

He had no criminal or Mongols bikie associations, unlike Ong and Rider.

Ong’s barrister conceded the shooting occurred in the context of motorcycle club activ-

ity but was“almost certainly a case of mistaken identity”.

Rider, now 33, joined the Mongols at 19 or 20 and told a psychologist he was considering leaving the club but hey had supported him and his partner while he was in prison, and there would be a price for leaving.

A friend who cautioned him against joining said he wasn’t surprised by the murder charge.

Ong, 37, was a Mongols associate since 2015 and became patched two years later.

He has not disavowed the club and rather than downplay his association, Ong and his barrister had talked up his love of motorcycles, Justice Beale said.

“Your association with the Mongols has been disastrous,” he said.

“You would do well to settle, once and for all, any association you have with the Mongols or its members.”

MrVirgona’s children Luca and Giulia, were in court for the sentence. They were just 17

and 14 when their father died.

“He was a very devoted father, husband, everything,” Mrs Virgona said.

“He was just everything.”

Rider, who pleaded guilty to murder days before a joint trial with Ong was due to begin, was ordered to serve at least 21 years.

Ong, who was convicted at trial, must serve at least 25 years and six months before he is eligible for parole.

AntoniettaVirgona(centre)saidherhusbandwasaloyal,hardworkingandinnocentman.

Picture:AAPIMAGE/AAPPHOTOS

A second life for timber

Students from Ranges TEC have experienced hardwood timber production from start to finish thanks to a partnership between the Lilydale-based school, Powelltown Sawmills and VicForests.

As part of their community awareness course requirements, the students visited a forest and the Powelltown sawmill, to understand the native timber industry.

Using native timber donated by Powelltown Sawmills, students crafted a signature piece of timber furniture such as a dining table, a coffee table, a cabinet or a chair.

VicForests Regional Engagement Manager Liz Langford said the learning experience for students went beyond just creating a piece of furniture that would last a lifetime.

“Students had the chance to observe every stage of the native timber industry to give them a true understanding of where their furniture piece came from,” Ms Langford said.

“Students visited the forest to see firsthand the planning, harvesting and regeneration cycle, and to gain a first-hand appreciation of the scientific research that underpins the management of forests.

“Next, they visited the Powelltown Mill to learn how timber is processed. They then used that timber to craft their pieces.”

Powelltown Sawmills CEO Dan Pote said it was a privilege to be involved in the partnership program.

“It was fantastic to see the projects progress to the quality pieces they have produced. The program started with tours of the forest to gain an understanding of native timber harvesting practices, how the logs are processed to make the timber, to the students being able to utilise the timber for their projects, without the financial impact,” Mr Pote said.

“They have created truly exceptional pieces that they should be extremely proud of.”

Ranges TEC teacher Mike Waddell said one

his students, Elijah, had put a lot of work into his furniture piece, which was a table he hoped would be around for generations to come.

“Making a family heirloom table from this

timber was very exciting to see the finished piece,” Elijah said.

Another student, James, said it was a gift to be able to use such beautiful wood.

Referring to the fact the donated wood was an offcut that would have been used for firewood, James said, “I am thankful that I could give this wood a second chance.”

Ranges TEC student Elijah with teacher Mike Waddell.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Community art space

By Tanya Steele

A new community art project “Walkin n Talking Together” has officially opened to the public with a small ceremony on Wednesday 9 August on the Day of theWorld’s Indigenous Peoples.

The greenspace on Badger Creek Road next to the Oonah Belonging Place is now the home of a beautiful and contemplative art project for connection and community.

CEO at Oonah, Amanda Hand said that a lot of collaboration had gone into the project from a number of members of the community.

“They came up with a concept with us being able to put in something in this area that really reflects us all walkin’ and talkin’ together,” she said.

“So a lot of people have been involved with projects, so Chris who is with us today is the fantastic landscape person who put all of this together and Nikki Madgwick, who really did support kids through their work.”

FoodPatch Art and Oonah Belonging Place in Healesville, along with local students and artist Jenine Godwin-Thompson, a Proud Yaggerah Aboriginal woman also collaborated to develop the project.

Ms Godwin-Thompson thanked Yarra Ranges Council for having creative arts grants available for the project.

“The idea was about reconciliation and joining the Queen’s Park to utilise the lovely green space and it really adds with Oonah being nearby,” she said.

The new community artwork includes three sections of artwork on the pathways that tell cultural stories with three arbours and materials that will cover the rails on the bridge between the park and the skate park on Don Road.

The tiles and designs featured in the space were made by students at Badger Creek Primary School and participants in Oonah programs.

Ethne Pfeiffer of FoodPatch Art said the idea of the project is to continue the journey of reconciliation in the community and beyond.

“The tiles that the students made tell the story of cultural connection through education and the links to Coranderrk,” she said.

“When I first spoke to Jenine about working on a community art project, I had no idea she would dream up such a large project that would involve so many groups - It’s been a delight to have Oonah health and community services, local schools and others come on board.”

Ms Pfeiffer said that the landscaper, Christopher Bissels brought cultural and environmental understanding to the project and helped to structure the work.

After the opening ceremony, people gathered in the new space to walk, talk and take in the artworks and garden then met at Oonah afterwards for afternoon tea.

“I’m grateful for everyone’s cultural respect, effort and contribution to what is now a permanent installation for the whole community to enjoy,” Ms Pfeiffer said.

Works will continue along the bridge towards the Skate park on Don Road, but the main area of the park is now open for all to enjoy.

Amanda Hand and Jenine Godwin-Thompson officially open the park.

Picture: TANYA STEELE

The project has opened up the greenspace and connects different sections of Healesville together. Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Meet Your Local Principal

I’m Angela Glennie and it is my honour to be the principal of St Mary’s Primary School. I use the word ‘honour’ because I value the partnership between parents and school that develops when together, we support your child on their educational journey. I believe in this wonderful school so much so that my own children came here! (Many, many years ago).

Set on 17 acres of bushland, St. Mary’s Catholic School has served the local and wider community for over 40 years. In close partnership with the St. Mary’s Parish Community, we provide meaningful education, connection, service and opportunity for all community members through our shared values, belief and faith. With research and evidence-based approaches to Teaching and Learning, highly skilled staff and our School Vision, founded in the gospel message “Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful and endures.” We believe we provide a richness that connects the gospel values to education by underpinning the manner in which we teach, learn and interact.

I encourage you to contact us, so that together we may share your child’s primary school journey; exploring, nurturing and supporting them as they reach their educational, emotional, social and faith potential.

www.smmountevleyn.catholic.edu.au

Hi, I’m Geoff Klep and it is my privilege to be the principal of St. Patrick’s school community. I have been a part of this wonderful community for over eight years and feel blessed to be able to work in such a dynamic educational setting.

St. Patrick’s has a proud history and tradition within both the local and wider community. Our school has over 100 years of experience in providing quality Catholic education for students within the parish community. St. Patrick’s, as a Catholic school, is an extension of the Catholic home, working with families in our combined efforts to develop the faith of our children. The basis of all our teaching at St. Patrick’s is underpinned by Gospel values. By living out these values, we believe our students will develop into well balanced, socially just and active participants in society.

We believe that parents and guardians are the first educators of their children. Our staff respectfully bring their professional knowledge and skills to complement this partnership in education. Together we promote a relationship between home and school that aims for the best learning possible. Together, we aim to provide a school environment that is safe and inclusive. A place where all are focussed on encouraging effort and where we understand that education involves teaching each child as a unique and valued member of our community. Our collaborative approach to learning focuses on the opportunity for all students to flourish and reach their full potential. St. Patrick’s is focussed on the education of our students as 21st Century learners, incorporating a range of digital technologies and contemporary learning pedagogies.

Our school is part of the Catholic Education System in Victoria and as such we are blessed to have a vibrant and thriving network of schools with whom we can share our learning and experiences.

I encourage you to take the opportunity to interact with the information and resources available on our website to help build your understanding of our great school. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you should you choose to book a school tour with me.

Angela Glennie Principal

Geoff Klep Principal

A community that honours

By Tanya Faulkner

They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old.

This week marks the 50th anniversary of the withdrawal of Australian troops from the Vietnam War, and another year of commemoration in the Hills community held on Sunday 13, August.

The ceremony, which kicked off with a parade down Maroondah Highway in Healesville’s town centre, was hosted this year by the Healesville RSL.

Onlookers were witness to local police, CFA, SES, Air Force Cadets, marching band, Healesville Scout Group, local and federal government representatives, St Bridget’s School students, andVeterans of theVietnam war as they marched down the road to the RSL.

Healesville RSL President Collette Shaw said they were blown away by the number of people in attendance.

“It’s a fantastic turnout today, and we have quite a number of RSL presidents from the region here,” she said.

At least 200 people were in attendance at the memorial, paying their respects to the soldiers that sacrificed their lives and futures, to grant us the freedoms we experience today.

Federal Casey MP AaronVioli said this commemoration is not just for those who served in the war, it’s also for their families and the challenges they experience for years to come.

“We’ve had a wonderful turnout this year, and it’s important for us to recognise 50 years since the Vietnam war and the service our vets put in,” he said.

Mr Violi said the government is working to improve the way veterans are treated upon their return from service, including ensuring they get the entitlements they deserve, and are properly recognised for their service.

“While we can’t change the past, we need to work better into the future with how we treat veterans,” he said.

Recently, the government awarded the Republic ofVietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Unit to the First Australian Task Force of Vietnam all units and elements.

The most moving part of the memorial was the playing of I was only Nineteen by Redgum, written about what it was like to experience the Vietnam War first hand, from enlistment and training, first hand exposure to military operations and combat, and his return home.

The service was concluded with the official laying of the wreaths, the Last Post, and the national anthems of New Zealand and Australia, before breaking out to morning tea at the RSL.

Next year’s service will be held by the Knox RSL in Boronia, with the official dates yet to come.

Helping hand for habitat

By Gabriella Vukman

On Sunday the students of Wandin Yallock

Primary School swapped their school shoes for boots as they participated in a council-endorsed tree planting program.

After a week’s worth of planting and learning about land management, natural habitats, legacy and the environment, Wandin Yallock Primary school was calling for volunteers to help them plant over a thousand trees on Sunday 13 August at the Wandin Yallock Creek.

The restoration project, organised by the council, aimed to prevent erosion and restore habitat. The planting took place from 10am until 1pm and everyone was welcome to join in the fun.

Jill Dowling or ‘Farmer Jill’ played a pivotal role in involving the students in sustainable practices and said that LandcareWeek and tree planting provided the kids with “a really good sense of ownership and they get to care for the environment too.”

This planting day came off the back of the primary school’s ‘National Tree Day’ and ‘Landcare Week’, wherein the students took part in planting trees, weeding, and generating

a natural habitat in their ‘Nature Play Forest’ for future students to come.

“They’re making a space for the animals and for future students at the school and they know they’ll be able to come back in years to come… and see the growth,” Farmer Jill said.

Richmond Football Club’s Katie Brennan also paid a visit to the school to meet the students and help out with some tree planting.

During this week the students managed to put all 60 of their allocated plants which included trees, shrubs and grasses, into the ground.

Upon being questioned about further regeneration and restorative work, Jill posits that “It can be really difficult to get the kids off site for an excursion” before going on to confirm that“If we could make it more accessible to actually go and do more community planting we would certainly be doing more.”

Sunday’s planting shenanigans stemmed from an invitation from Yarra Ranges Council for the Wandin Yallock School to take part in the process and Jill hoped this collaboration would mark “the beginning of a hopefully continued partnership.”

Wandin Yallock Primary School started the day with a target of 1000 trees to plant.

Success - Wandin Yallock Creek has a new row of vegetation.

Richmond FC’s Katie Brennan signing students’ hats. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Smiling teachers around a freshly planted tree.

It was all hands on deck to dig holes in the ground.

Students were happy to take part and lend a hand.

Trail Running hits climax

The Trail Running Series 2023 reached its thrilling conclusion on Sunday 6 August, with the highly anticipated series finale and race three held at Silvan.

This marked the 13th year of the Series which has revolutionised trail running in Australia since 2012.

Over 900 participants came together to celebrate their passion for trail running and immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes of the Dandenong Ranges.

The race offered three course distances: a short course covering seven kilometres, a medium course of 15 kilometres, and a long course challenging runners across 22 kilometres.

Race three proved to be a highlight of the Series with the introduction of a groundbreaking NEW handicap format. Runners set off at staggered start times based on their individual pace, creating an inclusive and celebratory atmosphere where everyone crossed the finish line at the same time – together!

“Standard races mean we all start together but finish spread apart and disparate – well we turned that on its head at Silvan as we finished the Series together, with all runners descending on the finish line in unison as a true celebration of trail running,” Rapid Ascent’s event director Sam Maffett said.

Participant Paddy Quiggin exclaimed his enthusiasm for the race over social media.

“I was dubious about handicap format but it was EXCELLENT on this course! Another stellar Series in the books!” Quiggin said.

The condensed three-race format for the

2023 Series kicked off at Plenty Gorge on Sunday 4 June, followed by a race two in Anglesea on 9 July .

The grand finale at Silvan introduced the handicap format as competitors and supporters embraced the spirit of trail running as a sport that fosters unity and shared experiences.

Competitors revelled in the joy of running on little-known trails, navigating through fun single tracks that wound their way through picturesque landscapes of towering trees, trickling creeks, verdant fern-lined valleys, and encounters with native wildlife.

The event not only showcased the natural beauty of each location but also fostered a welcoming and social environment for all, with food, coffee, presentations, music and family activities at each race.

“We are immensely proud of the Trail Running Series and its impact on the trail running community,” Maffett said.

“Seeing participants come together, challenge themselves, and connect with nature is incredibly rewarding. We are grateful to all the participants, sponsors, and supporters who have made this event a true celebration of trail running.”

As the curtains fall on the Trail Running Series 2023, organisers Rapid Ascent are already looking ahead to the future, with plans to continue pushing boundaries and exploring more exciting trails in 2024.

For more event information, visit the official website at www.trailrunningseries.com. au.

Transforming Visions into Reality: Flex23 Asphalting's Success Story

IN March of this year, Greg Pollard, Director of Flex23 Asphalting, made a strategic move by acquiring Stephen Brunskill Asphalting - a company with a 23-year history, established in 2000.This acquisition has resulted in a powerful synergy, as the team remains unchanged, boasting a combined experienceexceeding40years.

GregPollard,alongwithhisbusiness partner, Truong Do, brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding to the construction industry. With a background in Civil Engineering and years of experience as a Civil Construction Engineer and Project Manager, Greg's professionalism and organizational skills have proven invaluable.

Flex23 Asphalting's expertise spans a wide range of services, including hand lay and machine lay asphalting for various applications such as new driveways, brick edging, sports courts, car parks, and private roadways. They are also specialists in refurbishing synthetic grass tennis courts, offering clientsnewandconvertedplayspaces.

What sets Flex23 Asphalting apart is their passion for transformation. With every project they undertake, they have the opportunity to completely alter the appearance, function, and safety of an area.Whether rejuvenating existing spaces or creating new ones, the team's ability to bring positive change is both inspiring andmotivating.

Despite being relatively new to the industry, Greg's fresh enthusiasm has invigorated the team, fostering an enjoyable and light-hearted work environment. Maintaining great working relationships with the existing

team and former owner, Stephen Brunskill, speaks volumes about the company'sdedicationtoteamworkand clientsatisfaction.

In the current economic climate, Flex23 Asphalting understands the importance of sticking to a budget. Their commitment to providing the highest level of service and quality workmanship, without compromising on affordability, has won them accolades from clients. From the initial consultationtoprojectcompletion,they prioritize a stress-free experience for theircustomers.

Looking ahead, Flex23 Asphalting is eager to seize opportunities during the quieter winter months, offering free, no-obligation measure and quotes. By doing so, they aim to prepare projects for the busier periods from September toApril.

Flex23 Asphalting's greatest achievementtodateliesinsuccessfully continuing the business and fostering positive relationships with clients and theteam.Theirdedicationtoexcellence and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction make them a reliable and trusted partner for all asphalt-relatedprojects.

For more information about their services, visit their website at www.flex23asphalting.com.au or reach out to them via email at info@flex23. com.au or phone at 0413 351 547. Their team is available to assist you Monday to Friday, from 7 am to 5 pm. Trust in Flex23 Asphalting to turn your vision into a reality while ensuring qualityandaffordability.

Participants in the 2023 Trail Running Series saw the event conclude at Silvan on Sunday 6 August. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Runners were thrilled to finish the trail.

Runners could participate in three course options; a short course covering seven kilometres, a medium course of 15 kilometres, and a long course across 22 kilometres.

Final weeks for portraits

By Mikayla van Loon

There’s just weeks remaining to see the only Victorian showing of the National Photographic Portrait Prize 2022 (NPPP) here in the Yarra Ranges, showcasing an outstanding display of talent.

Yarra Ranges Regional Museum Exhibitions

Curator Maddie Reece said it is quite incredible to host such a prestigious and well known exhibition in the photographic world.

“This national prize attracts a lot of attention and has provided the impetus for many people to visit Lilydale and the Yarra Ranges region,” she said.

Reece said given the timeframe of when these artworks were completed, the themes and messaging, although diverse, have an underlying exploration of self for both photographer and the portrait sitter.

In her catalogue essay, NPPP judge Sandra Bruce said “the NPPP offers a sweeping view across the nation’s experience, one that reminds us that our lives continue on regardless of wider circumstances” something Reece reflected on to be true throughout the exhibition.

“The works in the exhibition depict people adjusting to and finding their place amongst the anxiety of the pandemic, artists and photographers finding new ways of making work because of Covid and generally people connecting with neighbours and family throughout and post lockdowns,” Reece said

“More generally it captures a myriad of people from across the nation who are trying to find their places and their identity in society as a result of their own life experiences – sometimes these stories and portraits are incredibly sad and heart wrenching, but some are truly humbling, inspiring and empowering.”

Despite being supported by the National Portrait Gallery (NPG) to curate the exhibition, Reece said curators are given the freedom to draw out themes and stories“which means the exhibition display always looks different”.

“The themes we chose to highlight within the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum display prioritised First Nation voices, perspectives, and stories; the roles and experiences of women (from adolescence to elderly) in our society; defining our own identity; and love – the love of a hobby, place, experience, person and or self,” she said.

“The 2022 iteration of the NPPP also depicted remnants of Covid-19 lockdowns, instead of pulling this all into one ‘Covid’ theme we decided to frame it around finding joy, solace,

and sometimes humour, in the obscurity of the lockdown situation.”

From 50 photographers named as finalists, the Yarra Ranges had two residents selected, with Tom Goldner and Ivan Gaal displaying works.

“Their inclusion highlights the high calibre of creative practitioners that call this region home.We are very lucky to be surrounded by a hugely talented creative community – it makes my job very exciting,” Reece said.

Exploring rather different stories, Goldner and Gaal have used both their personal history and friendships to develop powerful visuals through the camera.

“Tom Goldner’s photograph ‘You are loved’ features his mother standing in front of a lemon tree cradling a sculpture of a wooden face

of an old man, once owned by his grandfather,” Reece said.

“It brings the artist’s family together into one image. The photo was captured in black and white and then digitally coloured with a warm autumnal palette that feels reflective of the Dandenong Ranges.

“Warburton based artist Ivan Gaal’s work captures activist and writer David Menadue OAM one of the longest survivors of HIV in Australia.

“David was diagnosed with HIV in 1984 and he says in the artwork statement, ‘I have survived this long because of the love and support of my family and friends who didn’t reject me as happened to many HIV-positive friends, excellent doctors and the arrival of effective antivirals in 1996’.”

Some of the main judging criteria is the compelling nature of the portrait and the ability for the viewer to connect with the subject and this is for Reece a beautiful part of portraiture.

“The most impressive element for me is the courage and bravery of the photographer and sitters to share so much of themselves and their stories with strangers,” she said.

With the exhibition due to close on Sunday 3 September, Reece said it is the final opportunity to view another person’s story and perhaps connect to your own.

“I think people love exhibitions such as the National Photographic Portrait Prize because in the act of viewing the exhibition people can see themselves too, it shows them that they aren’t alone in their experiences.”

Tales of the Celtic experience told through ‘folk’ voice

By Mikayla van Loon

The tradition of folk and Celtic storytelling takes a unique twist when local band Bush Gothic perform.

Bringing their show to the Yarra Ranges, with a performance in the Montrose Town Centre on 20 August, the three piece band, led by Jenny Thomas on vocals, explores the inner voice of their audience.

“The music gets our inner thoughts, it’s the soundtrack to our inner thoughts. We weave storytelling into the concerts because everybody loves a good story and there’s some really terrific ones,” Jenny said.

While storytelling became the essence of Bush Gothic, Jenny said originally it was also about providing a female voice in the folk music space.

“The inspiration was actually a feminist reaction to me seeing a lot of folk music played at folk festivals and I didn’t feel and I couldn’t really see myself in the music at all,” she said.

“I was inspired by all of these songs, which are incredibly fantastic stories, so I wanted to find a way to bring out these stories and music is such a wonderful abstract art form that it can voice a lot of the feelings that we’re having as listeners.”

Drawing on the cross-cultural experiences of the Anglo Celtic and First Nations people of Australia, Jenny said its a tale of the “oppressed becoming the oppressor”.

“I’ve just come back from three months in Ireland and Wales. I was living amongst people who were among the first to be colonised by the British government and Australia was

one of the last countries to be colonised,” she said.

In the band’s artistic statement, they reflect on the dominance of power shown by the Celts over First Nations people during the time of colonisation but how the traditions of singing, dancing and ceremonies of the Celts were also lost at the hands of the British.

“To be Irish in the colonies was to belong to the lowest class. Discriminated against for being considered a stupid and uncultured race, they would then in turn go on to commit some of the most atrocious crimes against the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders,” it reads.

“We want to drag it out into the light, to remind those of Anglo Celtic heritage of the culture we lost, the Indigenous culture we tried to destroy and the culture we are now privileged to inhabit.”

Jenny said there’s “a really common thread” between the Celts and First Nations people in “how people cope through any adversity” by using “humour or beauty” or song and dance.

Wanting to give voice to the lost traditions of the Anglo Celtics, Bush Gothic uses the basis of folk tales but does it in a style that is often noted to sound like jazz.

“This is a very rich culture that came to Australia but the folk cultures did not flourish.

“The dominant culture now is English culture or the mainstream culture and so these

beautiful folk traditions that can really help us to find a way through life are just hanging in there.”

With herself and fellow band members Chris Lewis (drumkit) and Dan Witton (double bass) coming from musical theatre backgrounds, Jenny said they like to “craft the show so that the songs will flow from one to the other”.

Hoping the performance will invoke many emotions, Jenny said “they might cry, they laugh”.

Having grown up in Boronia, exploring the Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Valley was a key part of Jenny’s childhood, especially as she learned to play piano in Millgrove.

It was then in The Patch where Jenny based herself as an adult and is also the place she formed Bush Gothic.

“This [concert] is a bit like coming home because I grew up in that area at the foot of the Dandenongs and my childhood was all out there.

“I work as a composer and a musician now and I really feel that I draw on that childhood state to help me to write music and so the images of that area are very strong in my mind.

“So it will be so beautiful to go back there and to be able to play music and take it back to that area.”

The performance begins at 2pm. To book a ticket, go to www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/ Experience/Events/Bush-Gothic

The band explores Anglo Celtic stories through traditional folk tales with a twist.

Yarra Ranges Regional Museum Exhibitions Curator Maddie Reece with the two local portraits by Tom Goldner and Ivan Gaal. 352805 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS Maddie Reece looks at Silent Stength by Wayne Quilliam, the winning portrait for 2022. 352805

Yarra Ranges Regional Museum is the only Victorian location for the NPPP. 352805

Op-shop till you drop ...

By Tanya Steele

Bargain-minded residents with fun in mind can look forward to a repeat of the Healesville Living and learning centre’s “Op Shop Tours” beginning in late August this year.

HLCC has gained funding to run four separate 2023 Op Shop tour events after the success of the 2022 events.

Shona Rimmer from the (HLLC) said the tour is a great opportunity for people to get out and socialize.

“The first one was so well received the first time, we had people along who had never been to an op shop,” she said.

“Some it was their first outing since Covid.”

Ms Rimmer said all four tours will be quite different and provide a fun experience for all.

“People can come and remember what is in their own backyard,” she said.

Last year the event was enjoyed by many in the community and Ms Rimmer said that It’s about encouraging people to shop secondhand.

Local op shops have had to change how

they access community with the introduction of online second hand communities such as Facebook Marketplaces.

“We want to remind people that we are here,” Ms Rimmer said.

“The game has changed a bit and we’ve found that online presence has influenced what we have come through,” she said.

The funding has been provided by Yarra Ranges Council under the valley community recovery grants program.

Ms Rimmer said the focus is to promote opportunity shops as a valuable community resource,

“It’s about connecting people as they discover the joys and financial rewards of op shopping, exploring new places and having fun,” she said.

The dates are set for all Fridays and the first one kicks off on 25 August filled by three more on 22 September, 27 October and 17 November.

The tours are free and lunch is provided. Bookings are essential.

Mural enjoyed by many

CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar 3 Meadowgate Drive

CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway

CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar 158 Nangathan Way

CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar 11 The Mall

KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Churinga SC, Russo Place

KILSYTH Kilsyth News & Lotto 520 - 528 Mt Dandenong Road

KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette87 Colchester Road

KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Canterbury Road Kilsyth

KILSYTH TSG Tobacco Churinga Shopping Centre Mt Dandenong Road

LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC 33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC 51-59 Anderson Street

LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale Village Castella Street & Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre 7 Hardy Street

LILYDALE Eastern Laundries. 2/4 Williams Street East

LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre 1 Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station 473 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale 346 Main Street

LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths 31 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE BP Service Station 87 Warburton Highway

LILYDALE Shell Service Station 469 Maroondah Highway

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

LILYDALE Coles Express 469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe 251 Main Street

LILYDALE Round Bird Can’t Fly 170 Main Street

LILYDALE The Lilydale General 110 Beresford Road

LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery 96 Main Street

LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe 178 Main Street

LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe 222 Main Street

LILYDALE Gracious Grace Castella Street

LILYDALE Melba Coffee House 33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies 7/75 Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE The Mustard Tree Cafe 3/28 John Street

LILYDALE Freda’s Cafe 2 Clarke Street

LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate 164 Main Street

LILYDALE Stockdale & Leggo Real Estate 281 Main Street

LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate 111-113 Main Street

LILYDALE Grubs Up 1 Industrial Park Drive

LILYDALE Olinda Creek Hotel Maroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Crown Hotel Maroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street

MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket 916 Mt Dandenong Road

MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road

MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street

MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent

MOUNT EVELYN Red Robin Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent

MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road

MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale 138 York Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket 15 Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar 38 Bellara Dive

MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart 108 Hayrick Lane

MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark 103 Cardigan Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Express 2 Cambridge Road

MOOROOLBARK Mooroolbark Coin Laundrette28 Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real Estate Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK L J Hooker Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road

Mooroolbark residents Betty, Elida and Janet enjoyed the new mural painted by Blender Studios and local students, congratulating them on their work and saying how much it has enhanced the town. Picture: SUPPLIED

Linda Gilson and other residents thoroughly enjoyed the 2022 tours. Picture: SUPPLIED

Biggest word of the day

Asteroid City

Starring Jason Schwarzman, Scarlett Johansson and Tom Hanks

Rated M 3/5

Asteroid City is a charming, well-produced film that destroys its own drama with one fatal creative decision.

In 1955, a youth science convention in the desert town of Asteroid City is upended by an extraterrestrial visit.

Asteroid City is replete with writer-director Wes Anderson’s unique twee surrealism and witty dialogue, and the film has crisp, pastelcoloured cinematography. Some viewers will enjoy Asteroid City’s relaxed, languid pace, but

CARTOON

the film has several affecting moments of pathos and humour.

Jason Schwartzman is engaging as a stolid father dealing with repressed trauma, and the

young geniuses honoured at the convention have fun chemistry.

Unfortunately, Asteroid City has the same mortal flaw as The Wonder from 2022: by openly acknowledging its fictionality, all tension is lost.

“Verisimilitude” is the convincing appearance or impression of reality. Media does not necessarily need to look real to feel real, as a stylised animation can still draw you into its world and invest you in its characters and plot.

Asteroid City begins with the narrative framing-device of a black-and-white TV movie on the production of the play Asteroid City, with the colourful bulk of the film being the play itself; from its first moments, the film explicitly

Welcome to the world of audiobooks

For those who are used to reading written words, listening to spoken words via audiobooks can be an exciting adventure.

Audiobooks offer an immersive experience that can help conventional readers better connect to the content. When a book is read out loud, each listener feels like the narrator is communicating directly to them. This encourages them to be attentive, which in turn helps improve their concentration on, and comprehension of, the content.

Audiobooks have an emotional appeal as well. A talented narrator is capable of bringing a book’s characters to life by replicating their tones and inflections, throughout the content and especially in dialogues. This helps create a feeling of relevancy and meaningfulness, allowing the listener to better identify with the characters and their experiences.

The most commonly acknowledged advantages of audiobooks are that they help us better manage our time, build critical listening skills, and improve pronunciation and fluency. In Australia and other parts of the world, audiobooks are frequently used while driving or commuting, performing repetitive tasks/ chores, and during physical exercise sessions.

While audiobooks allow us to multi-task and are suitable for both the time-poor and the time-rich, they were born back in the 1930s

PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

out of the need to serve the blind and visually impaired adults and children, as well as those with physical impairments that prevent the reading of standard print materials.

In 1952, Welsh poet Dylan Thomas sat down to record his selected poems on a long playing vinyl record, beginning with “Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night”. The 45 minute recording went on to become one of his most widely known works, and is credited as the “seed” of the audiobook industry today.

Starting in the 1970s, audiobooks gained considerable popularity thanks to the invention and wide adoption of cassette tapes, as well as the introduction of small and cheap portable players such as the Walkman.

Then, in the 1990s and 2000s, technological advances enhanced the prevalence of Internet usage, prompting insatiable consumer demands for faster download speeds, smarter compressed audio formats, and smaller, lighter and cheaper media playing devices. Far superior than their predecessors on cassettes and CDs, today’s audiobooks in MP3 and other digital formats allow instant download access from online libraries of unlimited size.

In 2020, it was estimated that 6.6 million Australians had listened to audiobooks, 55% of millennials had already listened toaudiobooks,andoldergenerationswerealso getting onboard. In November 2022, it was reported that 37% of Australian audiobook consumers began listening to audiobooks within the past 12 months. In comparison, 32% had been listening for at least 3 years or more, and 15% had been enjoying audiobooks for more than 6 years.

Narration remains crucial in audiobooks because the narrator not only tells stories but also embodies different characters. It’s an “acting gig” as described by award-winning audiobook producer Kathryn Lambrix, To tap in the oral tradition of storytelling – and a rich resource of human voice performance – why not give audiobooks a try?

reveals its fakeness, losing all verisimilitude.

The film repeatedly returns to this framing device, along with act-scene title-cards. For all its powerful performances and themes of loss, curiosity, quarantine and aliens, there is no tension because you are constantly reminded that nothing in the plot is actually happening. Your tolerance may vary, but to me, films sabotage their suspense and are very difficult to engage with when they openly acknowledge their fakeness.

A quirky, well-acted comedy-drama that shoots itself in the foot by undermining its own realism, Asteroid City is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

A healthy, invigorating Healesville

Looking back

Bryn Jones

Healesville and District Historical Society president

From its earliest years as a ‘tourist town’ a great deal of emphasis was put on Healesville’s healthy environment – pure air, clean water, and beautiful green spaces. In 1904 Healesville was being touted as ‘the future sanatorium of Victoria’; during the major guest house era of the 1920s advertising brochures stressed the mountain air, scenery, and ‘invigorating climate’ of‘Healthy Healesville’.

In 1933 ‘outsiders’ apparently saw an opportunity to take advantage of such features. An organisation called the Sun Bathing Society of Victoria believed that a healthy body may best be achieved by exposure to the sun and air.

The Society apparently considered building a hostel in Healesville for sunbathers – an up-to-date house containing a large lounge, a smoke room(!), nine bedrooms, office, cloak room, kitchen, pantry store, separate ladies’ and gents’ lavatories, and a large hall open to the east, to be used as a dining hall suitable for dance concerts and lectures.

Outside would be two tennis courts, a basketball court, running track, putting green, swimming pool with water chute, and so on.

It was claimed that well-known swimmers, divers, physical health and eurythmic instructors had offered their services. The dress worn by men would be ‘knickers’ and the women would wear brassieres ‘which are quite decent and display far less of the human form than the modern bather does’.

The plans and enthusiasm were tempered somewhat by the statement that ‘there is a chance of Healesville being chosen as the site’. Today we might think of the idea as a mere ‘thought bubble’. For whatever reasons, it did not happen. Perhaps the Sun Bathing Society could not find a suitable site in Healesville or even that our civic fathers (and Councillors then were all men) were overwhelmed by the vision of men and women cavorting in our town in only ‘knickers’ and ‘brassieres’! Unfortunately there are no photos to enhance that possible vision.

Whatever the reason, no such project was undertaken in the 1930s and none since.

PUZZLES

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Contract part (6)

4 Thick cable (6)

10 Excel (5)

11 Journeyed (9)

12 Tropical fruit (9)

8 Straddling (4)

9 Victorian mountain range (7)

16 Had a small piece broken off (7)

17 Plant yielding fragrant oil (8)

18 Archipelago off the coast of Scotland (8) 19

DOWN

1 Cutting very short (9)

2 Self-government (8)

3 Retention (7)

5 One who evens the score (7)

6 Drivel (6)

7 Horsemen (6)

DECODER WORDFIT

9-LETTER WORD

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

emir, firm, firmer, form, former, forming, frogmen, from, germ, gnome, grim, grime, inform, informer, merino, mien, mine, miner, minor, mire, monger, more, morn, nome, norm, omen, reform, REFORMING, rime

William Matthews Funerals

No. 146

No. 146

No. 146

MASTERPIECE IN YARRA VALLEY

WELCOME to this stunning and luxurious home, a true masterpiece that promises to captivate you from the moment you lay eyes on it. As an outstanding family residence, it showcases the envy-inducing Yarra Valley lifestyle. The meticulous attention to detail throughout the property and its breathtaking beauty from all angles leave no doubt that this home exudes style and class.

Boasting 4 large bedrooms, including a remarkable main bedroom strategically positioned to offer panoramic valley views, you can effortlessly connect with nature through expansive sliding doors and a private balcony. The living areas have been thoughtfully designed with family gatherings and entertaining in mind, providing the perfect spaces to unwind, enjoy, and host guests. For parents seeking a peaceful retreat, a separate living area awaits, complete with a cozy gas log fire and an elegant feature mantle.

Ensuring year-round comfort, the property is equipped with ducted reverse cycle heating and cooling. The main living/ family room seamlessly integrates with the outdoors, offering astonishing valley views, alfresco dining, and an ideal entertainment spot no matter the season. The kitchen is a true delight for any master chef, featuring top-of-the-line appliances, exquisite benchtops, fixtures, and ample bench and cupboard space, complemented by an oversized walk-in pantry.

The allure continues outdoors with a private covered entertaining/barbecue area, a lock-up 2-car garage, and an additional

separate lock-up storage room that can effortlessly serve as a home office, study, or even a personal gym. Garden enthusiasts will find their paradise in the beautifully landscaped gardens, adorned with an array of exotic and established trees and shrubs. This property offers a quality lifestyle

in every aspect, combining the joys of a semi-rural setting with convenient access to essential facilities. You will cherish calling this place home, as it will steal your heart and make you never want to leave. The location is ideal, with the Rail trail nearby for morning walks, as well as shops, public

transport, and the breathtaking wineries of the area just a stone’s throw away. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this remarkable property your very own, embracing the serenity and charm of the Yarra Valley while enjoying all the comforts and luxury this home has to offer. ●

FAMILY COMFORT SPACE AND CONVENIENCE

SOMETHING a little different and certainly very unique and very impressive, this beautifully presented home offers 3 bedrooms all with built in robes. Great size living space with a large family/living room and separate meals/dining area, the kitchen is amazing with stunning timber bench tops and loads of bench and cupboard space.

The whole family will love the outdoors with great usable front and back yards with plenty of space for the kids and pets to run around and enjoy and explore.

Sit back relax and admire the superb mountain views from the entertaining deck and barbecue area, a superb family property conveniently positioned just a short walk to local schools, shops, transport and the Yarra river and walking trail, a great place to call home. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

EMBRACING NATURE AND CONVENIENCE

IN the pursuit of a perfect home that embraces both elegance and peace, look no further than this charming multi-level 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home, with three living zones, on a fully fenced 1261 sq. mtr. block.

Nestled on a quiet no-through road, this property offers a serene retreat from the busy outside world, and yet is walking distance to the Olinda township, restaurants, cafes, primary school, and bus stop.

The exterior of the home exudes a timeless appeal, with its simple yet classic design, with covered verandahs and charming balcony that invite you to sit back and enjoy the tranquillity of the surroundings. Step inside, and you will discover a flexible floorplan set over 3 levels which has been designed with functionality in mind.

From the well-appointed country style kitchen which has modern appliances and tasteful finishes to the stunning lounge with its vaulted ceilings, charming wood fire and access onto the balcony.

The lounge becomes a versatile space where you can entertain guests or simply spend quality time with your family. For those who value work-life balance, the top floor can be a dedicated artist studio/study, or 5th bedroom with ample storage and overlooks the garden and forest.

The home thoughtfully allocates the five bedrooms across various levels, granting every family member their own personal space to call their own. The inclusion of three bathrooms and a well-placed powder room ensures convenience and privacy for everyone.

Parking will never be an issue, with the convenience of a garage, carport, and plenty of off-street parking options, ensuring that your guests feel welcome and at ease when visiting. In summary, this multi-level 5-bedroom home, tucked away on a quiet no-through road, epitomizes the essence of a balanced and serene lifestyle.

It offers an elegant and comfortable living space the perfect place to call home. ●

25MiddletonDrive,WooriYallock$690,000-$740,000

ThisIsTheOne-YourFullyRenovatedFamilyHome,FirstHomeorInvestment OpportunityAwaits!

With3bedrooms,&2bathrooms,thisisamusttosee.ThekitchenboastsaSSdishwasher,electric ovenwithgascooktop&canopyrangehoodalongsideaEuropeanlaundry.Ontheupperlevel thereare2bedrooms(1withBIRs)&anupdatedfamilybathroomwithabath.Downthestairsto thespaciousloungeroomwithprivateviewsofthereardeck&distanthills,andthenthroughtothe masterbedroom,withensuite,largerobe&asunnyoutlookovertherearyard.Thishomeisflooded withnaturallight,hasgasductedheating&splitsystemAC.Relaxonthereardeckofthefully fencedbackyard,orentertainonthepavedarea.Thereisalsoagrassedarea,agardenshed&a CubbyHouse!Ideallylocatedonly2minsdrivefromtownoraneasystrollintoWooriYallockshops.

LuxuryFeatures,PrivateSettingandOver5acrestoImmerseYourselfIn! Theentertainingdeckfeaturesaspa,ceilingfans&abuiltinbar.Insidethehomediscoveramodern openplankitchen/dining/loungeroomwithawoodfire&splitsystemAC.Thekitchenhasalarge islandbench,electricoven&stovetop,&dishwasher.Themasterbedroomoffers2spaciousWIRs, splitsystemAC,&ensuitewithdualvanities&dualshower,&atoilet.Thesecondloungeroomhasa woodfire,baywindows&aceilingfan.Thefurther3bedroomshaveBIRs&splitsystemACs.There isalargefencedyard,2fencedpaddocks,adam,3*22,000Watertanks,2hotwaterservices, anexternalgeneratorplug,an8kWSolarSystem&sprinklersystem,anddoubleglazedwindows throughout.Thereisalargeshedapprox.16m*8mwithconcretefloor,power&lights.Therearealso smallersheds,achickencoop,&achildrensplaygroundarea.

49PakenhamRoad,Cockatoo$730,000-$770,000

Beautifullyrenovatedhomewithgorgeoustreedoutlook,andsocloseto town!

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

AaronDay

M 0407365994

BrennanMileto M 0422996451

Welcometo‘RainyHillRetreat’!

Sittingon16tranquilacresisthisstunningMudbrickHomewithlandscapedgardens.Themainhouse isfloodedwithnaturallight&hasoneofakindhandmadewindows&doors.With7mceilingsin theopenplanliving,kitchen,diningarea.ThehomehasaMasterSuitewithWIR,polishedconcrete floors,toastywoodfire&asplitsystem.Upstairsisaspaciousbedroomwithstorage&aJuliet balcony,asittingroom/library&officespacewhichcouldbeconvertedinto2furtherbedrooms. TheFrenchProvincialkitchenfeaturesawalk-inpantry,marblebenchtops&freestanding900mm stove,withafurtherwoodfireinthelivingarea.OutsidethereisabungalowwithsplitsystemA/C& anupdatedbathroom,perfectforguests.Witha180m2,rammedearthshedwithvariousworkshop &storagespaces&homeoffice/studiowithbathroom&splitsystemupstairs.

250Gembrook-TonimbukRoad,Gembrook$1,200,000-$1,300,000

AaronDay M 0407365994

BrennanMileto M 0422996451

95RainyHillRoad,Cockatoo$1,500,000-$1,650,000

SamanthaScott M 0438680032

STELLAR FAMILY RESIDENCE

THIS impeccable residence is the ideal acquisition for buyers searching for style and versatility. Featuring fabulous upper level family living plus a lower level consisting of a large rumpus room plus extra bedroom/ study/studio perfect as a teenagers retreat, it will be effortless to imagine how this home will enhance your lifestyle.

The fully decked out ground floor studio features seamless open plan living with timber floors this space is ideal as a teenager’s retreat or as a work from home space with its own separate access.

Upstairs is an entertainers’ delight with a flowing indoor-outdoor design. The open concept lounge, dining area, and gourmet kitchen with 900mm gas range, stone benchtops, and walk-in pantry boasts bifold doors that connect to the large covered deck. With 4 generously proportioned bedrooms on this level, including the desirable main bedroom with dual sink and rain shower ensuite plus a walk-in robe, comfort is offered in abundance. With further features including a sweeping drive for complete privacy, a single carport, and a massive double garage for convenience set upon a sprawling 3,899sqm (approx.) allotment, this is a lifestyle property of enviable proportions. Inspection will impress

Private and picturesque lifestyle property

· Stylish polished floorboards and ducted heating/cooling all throughout

· Laundry with drying cupboard

· 6 Star energy rating

Impeccable upper level 4-bedroom family home

Gourmet kitchen and living area with bifold doors to the deck

Massive double garage and relaxing lifestyle location ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

This4-bed,2-bathhomeoffersprivacynearTecomaandupwey central.Withaversatile layout,includingamasterbedroomwithwalk-inrobeupstairs,anda4thbedroom/office/ rumpusroomdownstairs,thechoiceisyours.enjoyanewkitchen,hardwoodfloors,2 toilets,and2showersforconvenience.Asecurebackyard,doublegarage,andcarport provideampleparking.Afantasticfamilyhomewalkingdistancetoamenities.

nestledonanacreofland,thischarminghomefeatures3bedrooms,withthemain bedroomhavinganensuite.Themodernkitchenboastsstainless-steelappliances,softclosingcabinetry,andelegantCaesarstonebenchtops.Brightlivingareasprovidea cozyretreat,whilethecovereddeckisperfectforentertaining.Thepropertyincludesa 2-cargarage,4-carshed,solarpowersystem,andheating/cooling.enjoyaserenesetting closetoamenitiesinGembrookTownship.

BEAUTIfULOUTLOOKOVEr5fLATACrES

ThisconvenientlylocatedresidencemerelyminutesfromemeraldTownship&Wellington Roadissetamongstoldgrowthtrees&establishedgardensfeaturestwolivingareas,a fireplace,highceilings,timberfloors,Frenchdoors,kitchenwithaporcelainbutlerssink& Ceasarbenches,sashwindows,masterwithverandaaccess.A huge4+carbarnwith laundry,astudio/officearea&workshop.Solar12kwbattery &15kwpanels,3phase powertogarage,watertank,paddocks,adam,somebushland, chickenrun&sheds.

mickDolphin 0429684522

TayTing 0417302112

Ahiddengemawaits

nestledamongenchantinghillsinSassafrasandOlinda,discovera3-bed+studyhome. Spaciouslounge,timberkitchen,flowingfamilyareatothedeckforyear-roundoutdoor living.TasmanianOakfloors,2fireplaces,GDH,andsplitsystemforultimatecomfort. Overlookingacaptivatingbackdropwithlow-maintenancegardenandforestlighting. Garage,solarpanels,ampleparking,andlandscapedyardfornature’sbeautywithout theupkeep.Moretimefornearbyadventuresandleisureinyournewabode.

JanBrewster 0409558805

FOCUS

FAMILY LIVING CLOSE TO TOWN

THIS exceptional home offers the ideal small country town lifestyle and showcasing a flexible and thoughtful floor plan to suit the growing family. Boasting 3 bedrooms all with built in robes plus an ensuite and walkin robe in the main bedroom, spacious living areas with a separate open plan lounge/ living/family room.

The kitchen is very impressive with quality

appliances and bench tops and ample bench and cupboard space, a modern well designed home offering family comfort and space. Situated on an easy care low maintenance block and with plenty of scope to add your finishing touches, located just a short stroll to local schools, transport and Yarra Junctions shopping precinct it’s the ideal place to call home. ●

FamilyLivingwithLoadsofSpaceandConvenience

Positionedtoplease&offeringloadsofspaceinsideandout,boasting4generousbedroomsand includinganensuiteandwalkthroughrobeinthemainbedroom.Theopenplankitchenoffers amplebenchandcupboardspacewithqualityappliancesandfittingsthroughout,hugelivingareas withseparatefamily/lounge/livingroomandmealsareawithplentyofroom.Ductedheating,wood heatingandevaporativecoolingthroughoutofferyearroundcomfort.Wellover1acre(4476sqm) ofestablishedgardensandlushlawnsthekidsandpetswillloveit,alargelockuphighclearance garage/workshopprovidestheidealspotforcaravans,boats,trucksandtrailers,plusaseparate2 cargarageandtool/gardenshed.Asuperbfamilyhomeinapopularandverysoughtafterarea locatedinaquietcourtwithgreatmountainviews.

Premium4BedroomHomeWithStunningViews

Nestledinasereneneighbourhood,thisstunningpropertywelcomesyouwithbeautifullylandscaped surroundings.Setonanexpansive884squaremeterblock,thishomeoffersanabundanceofspace andamenities.Theheartofthishomeisatruemasterpiece—amagnificentkitchenthatwillleave youinawe.Featuringporcelainbenchtopsandasplashback,awalk-inpantry,astylishblack sink,andqualityBosch&Ilveappliances.Thissplendidhomeboastsfourbedrooms,eachcarefully designedtoprovidecomfortandpracticality.Theluxuriousmasterbedroomimpresseswitha fantasticensuitefeaturinganoversizedshower,twinbasinvanity,andawalk-inrobefitforroyalty. Theotherbedroomsareequallyinvitingwithamplestorage,wall-to-wallcarpeting,andgenerous proportions.Thishomehasbeenthoughtfullydesignedtomeetyoureveryneed.It’sreadyforyou!

Everythingyouneedforabrilliantstartwithbonusstudioinbackyard!

Nestledonalargemeticulouslylandscapedandfullyfenced,experiencetheultimateineasy livingwiththisfantastic3-bedroomresidence.Thebeautifullyappointedbathroom,completewith aluxuriousbathtub,offersasereneretreatafteralongday.Theairyopen-plandesignseamlessly blendsthekitchen,dining,andloungeareas.Adoublecarportandasinglelock-upgarage boastingconcreteflooring,powerandacozypotbellywoodheater–providingbothpracticality andcharm.Theenormouscovereddeckingarea,equippedwithceilingfan,willbethesettingfor someunforgettablegatheringswithfamilyandfriends.Thefantasticbonusofaseparatestudio nestledinthebackyard,completewithitsownsplitsystemforcomfortallyearround.Tuckedaway fromitall,you’llenjoytheperfectblendofprivacyandaccessibility.

LeahBannerman

M 0448924266

Inspection: Sat10.30-11.00am 3

RareopportunityintheMainStreetofWarburton

ProminentWarburtonmainstreetlocationclosetotheproposednewSupermarketdevelopment andsurroundedbyotherestablishedinvestmentpropertiesthisisindeedarareopportunity.The buildingconsistsofashopfrontwithtwobedroomresidenceincludingabathroom,kitchenand livingarea.Theshopandresidenceiscurrentlyvacantallowingvariousoptionsfortheastute PurchaserandtherearportionoflandisLeaseduntil2027.Widefrontageofferstwolargedisplay windowsandexcellentvisibility.Thereisalsoreversecycleairconditioningforyearroundcomfort andwithPublictransportoutthefrontit’saccessibletofacilitiesalongtheWarburtonHighway.Add thebonusoftheWarburtonMountainBiketrackdestinationcoming,thelocalsportinggroundand facilitiesnearbyplusashortwalktothebeautifulYarraRivertoenjoyarelaxinglifestyle.

18MooreCrescent,Millgrove$595,000-$650,000

12NatureParkRise,YarraJunction$850,000-$925,000

3459aWarburtonHighway,Warburton$580,000-$635,000

HOME WITH POOL AND HILLSIDE VIEWS

THIS enviable entertainer with exceptional hillside views is a complete lifestyle package awaiting its new owners. Featuring a swimming pool and spa, freestanding studio/home office, and single garage, this property boasts all the elements of a forever family home.

On the entry level, the dine-in kitchen with granite benchtops and clerestory windows sits above the family room with timber floors and generous lounge with wood fire. Each of these lovely living areas spills out the expansive covered deck with custom bar while also accessing the verandah and paved patio ready to host large family gatherings. With 3 generously proportioned bedrooms with built-in robes, including one with ensuite, and a bathroom with soaking tub, this level alone would provide ample space for family living.

However, there is also a sensational lower level parents’ retreat on offer. Comprising a living area/rumpus room, bedroom with

extensive storage and a shower ensuite, plus a laundry, storeroom, and guest WC also included, this property offers far more features than most.

In addition, this property secures a splendid 1,135sqm (approx.) allotment in the coveted Upper Ferntree Gully Primary School and Upwey High School zone near Upper Ferntree Gully Station, Ferntree Plaza, Angliss Hospital, and 1000 Steps parkland. With so much to discover, why wait? Join us for a tour today.

· Expansive family home with swimming pool, spa, and studio/office

Upper level with 2 living areas and a stylish open plan kitchen

Generously proportioned family bedrooms with built-in robes

Lower level parents’ retreat with ensuite bedroom and living area

· Single garage, storerooms, and exceptional outdoor entertaining areas ●

3 A 1 B 2 C

Thiswhimsicalresidencewillalightimaginationswithitscharm,potential,position,and 1,435sqm(approx.)property.Filledwithhandcraftedelementsandenrichedwithadouble carportandabundantoff-streetparking,thispropertynearbustransportandlocalshops isajoytobehold.Fromthesunroomentry,theinteriorbranchestoanamplehomeoffice/ studyandtheopenplandiningareaandkitchen.

SuzieBrannelly M 0490506910| E suzie@chandlerandco.com.au

BEAUTIFULFAMILYHOMEINENTICINGHILLSLOCATION 4 A 2 B 2 C

Immaculatepresentationandafirmfocusonindoor-outdoorlivingmakeiteasytoimagine livingatthisimpressiveproperty.Boastingaleafy,landscapedquarter-acreallotment betweenGlenfernValleyBushlandReserveandUpweytownshipandtrainstation,this propertyisaninvestmentinlifestyle.

DanielSteen

M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

13WynetteAvenue,UPPERFERNTREEGULLY $855,000-$940,000

LARGEFAMILYHOMEWITHPOOLANDHILLSIDEVIEWS 4 A 3 B 2 C

Thisenviableentertainerwithexceptionalhillsideviewsisacompletelifestylepackage awaitingitsnewowners.Featuringaswimmingpoolandspa,freestandingstudio/home office,andsinglegarage,thispropertyboastsalltheelementsofaforeverfamilyhome.

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

DanielSteen

M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

21AMaskellsHillRoad,SELBY $580,000-$640,000 OVERHALFANACREWITHVALLEYVIEWS

Ararefind,thiswellcaredfor,clearedandvacantblockof2311m2isinabeautifulpartof theDandenongRangesandoffersnearbyvalleyviews.Prettymaturetreescreatealovely canopyaroundtheboundaryandwillgivecolourandheightforyourgardentocome tolife.Buildyourdreamhome(STCA)totakeinthesurroundinggreeneryandenjoythe peaceandprivacyofthissoughtafterlocation.

SharynChandler

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GlennChandler

M 0418410689| E glenn@chandlerandco.com.au

CALL US ON 0458 735 250

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Motoring

section of Network Classifieds.

General Notices

V Public Notices and Event

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:

Telstra plans to upgrade an existing telecommunications facility located at Plante’s Hill Reserve, 162 Maroondah Highway, Mooroolbark, Victoria 3138 (Lot 1 on TP875567) www.rfnsa.com.au/3138002

1.Telstra Limited (A.C.N 051 775 556) are currently upgrading existing mobile network facilities to allow for the introduction of 5G to Telstra’s network. As part of this network upgrade, Telstra proposes the installation of LTE700 (4G), LTE1800 (4G), LTE2100 (4G), NR/LTE2600 (4G/5G), NR850 (5G) and NR3500(5G)technologiesattheMooroolbarklocality and surrounds.

2.The proposed works at the above site include the installation of six (6) new panel antennas (each no more than2.8mlong),theinstallationofone(1)newequipment shelter (no more than 2.5m high and with a base area not exceeding 5m2), and the installation of associated ancillary equipment (including but not limited to six (6) new remote radio units (RRUs), one (1) new power system, antenna mounts and underground powerline, housed within the proposed equipment shelter to be located at the base of the facility.

3.Telstra regards the proposed installation as a Low-Impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the above description.

4.In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or written submissions should be directed to Matilde Tobon, Aurecon Australasia Pty Ltd (A.B.N 54 005 139 873) via email to: Matilde.TobonMaya@aurecongroup.com or via post to: Matilde Tobon, Aurecon Australasia, PO Box 23061, Docklands, VIC, 8012 by 5pm on 29/08/2023.

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

Tradie health under focus

This Tradies Health Awareness Month (August), seasoned tradespeople in Lilydale are warning their younger generation to better protect their eyes and ears from injury on the jobsite.

This comes after research from Specsavers shows that 89 per cent of tradies aged 40 and over would tell their younger selves to be more careful with their hearing and eye protection.

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.

Optometrists and Audiology Professionals in Lilydale are echoing this warning. They are calling out to labourers and tradespeople in the local area to be vigilant in looking after their eyes and ears on the job to avoid long term, often preventable, and in some cases irreversible, damage to their eyesight and hearing.

Currently, there are 2,850 in the Lilydale area that could be susceptible to this damage.

Lilydale Specsavers Audiology Professional Meena Venkat said it’s the age bracket of 18 to 34 year olds who really need to understand the importance of preventative measures.

“Once you lose it, there is no getting it back. We often see older tradies come in citing their workplaces as the reason for their hearing being worse than it used to be or attributing work-related sun damage to their eyes,” she said.

“These younger tradies could learn from their older colleagues and start to get serious about ear and eye protection on the job site.” The research found that younger tradies (1834 yo) are already reporting concerns of worksite damage, with:

· 75 per cent of those who work outside are concerned that they could have sun damage to their eyes

· 37 per cent already incurring a workplace eye injury that required medical attention

· 53 per cent saying their hearing has wors-

ened over time, with 76 per cent of those affected citing their work environment as a contributor to their hearing loss

Yet, many younger tradies are still taking a ‘she’ll be right’ approach, with 26 per cent rarely or only occasionally wearing protective goggles or sunglasses onsite, and 70 per cent not always wearing hearing protection.

Ms Venkat said simple measures like wearing polarised sunglasses, safety glasses or earmuffs can make a huge difference.

“Health professionals want tradies to know that prevention is always better than cure, plus, getting regular eye and hearing health checks is important to retain quality of vision and hearing, both now and for years to come,” she said.

Keeping the eyes and ears in good health requires regular checks. Picture: UNSPLASH

Trades people are being pleaded with to add safety goggles to their standard safety kit.

SPORT Norman shines in iconic run

By Jamie Strudley

Yarra Ranges Athletics athlete Harry Norman stormed to a third place finish at the iconic Sydney City to Surf race held on Sunday. In a race with over 70,000 starters that attracts some of the best road racers in Australia, Harry was narrowly pipped for second by Olympic Steeplechase representative James Nippress. Harry ran a scintillating 42.14 for the hilly 14km race.

Club president, Max Savill-Bentley, represented Victoria at the Australian Half Marathon championships held on the Sunshine Coast on Sunday. In hot conditions Max finished in 14th place in a time of 1.09.26.

Yarra Ranges Athletics athletes and families travelled to Lake Dewar for the Little Athletics Victoria State Cross Country Championships on Saturday. Twenty One athletes enjoyed the mostly flat and fast course and were rewarded with some outstanding results. Congratulations to medalists James Chrome-Smith, Micah Friend, Bradley McMeeken and our Under 9 Girls team of Milly, Amelia and Lilah. Results are:

· Girls U9 1500m Milly Hall 10th 6.44, Amelia

Sketchley 11th 6.45, Lilah Fear 28th 7.12

· Girls U10 1.5km Isla Haisma 22nd 6.36

· Girls U11 2km Pippa Congreve 31st 8.52, Holly Yorke 39th 9.15, Lexi Aders 61st 10.04

· Girls U12 2km Brienna Coffey 25th 8.41, Adele Ellis 26th 8.42, Janna Rodriguez 34th

9.07

· Girls U13 3km Brookley Horsburgh 15th

12.34, Tori Kincaid 29th 14.39

· Girls U14 3km Zoe Clarke 6th 11.19

· Girls U15 3km Kristina Nackovski 8th 12.31

· Boys U9 1.5km Fletcher Norman 66th 7.35

· Boys U11 2km Jonty Friend 68th 10.28

· Boys U13 3km Ryder Holland 10th10.29, Finn Rossthorn 22nd 11.25

· Boys U15 3km James Crome-Smith 3rd 10.16

· U9-10 Multi-Class 1.5km Micah Friend 2nd 10.04

· U13-17 Multi-class 2km Bradley McMeeken 2nd 10.47

· Team Results U9 Girls 2nd, U11 Girls 8th, U12 Girls 6th

Our regular Saturday morning cross coun-

try returns this coming weekend with the challenges of Margaret Lewis Reserve, Coldstream. Warm ups start at 8.45am. Our seniors travel to St Anne’s Winery in Myrniong for round 8 of the XCR season.

Training continues for all club members on Tuesday from 5.30pm at Morrison Reserve and Thursday evenings from 5.30pm at Victoria Road Primary School gym. 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!

Head to head matches for Lilydale Tennis Club players

By Joanna Campe

Round 12 results for Lilydale Tennis Club in the Eastern Region Tennis competition.

Junior Open Singles Doubles (JOSD4) v Box Hill North

After round 11 this team was sitting outside the top four with one win so far this season.

Lilydale was represented by Joshua Jamieson, Ari Marappan, Adam Paladino and Alex Paladino.

Lilydale played at home this week against Box Hill North. It was a close match, but Lilydale eventually came out on top 5 sets to 3 – winning 39 games to 32.

Result: 3-6, 6-2, 7-6, 6-2, 1-6, 6-0, 6-4, 4-6

Junior Open Doubles (JOD8) v Heathmont

After round 11 this team is sitting just outside the top four on the ladder.

Lilydale was represented by Alex Bowyer, Ivy Pieper, Lachie Sweet and Ryan Taylor.

Lilydale played at home this week against Heathmont who are sitting in third place on the ladder. It was a tough match for Lilydale who fought hard but went down 1 set to 5 –with Heathmont winning 33 games to Lilydale 17.

Result: 4-6, 3-6, 2-6, 2-6, 6-3, 0-6

Open Rubbers 24 (OR24) v BYE

This team had a BYE – so will be keen to get back on the court next week, playing at home against Miller Park.

Result: BYE

Open Rubbers 20 (OR20) v Miller Park

After round 11 this team is sitting just outside the top four on the ladder.

Lilydale was represented by Levi Daly and Tim Bassett.

Lilydale played away against Miller Park. Lilydale played well but Miller Park were too strong on the day and won 5 sets to 0 – winning 30 games to Lilydale 10.

Result: 6-2, 6-4, 6-3, 6-1, 6-0

Open Rubbers 14 (OR14) v Blackburn

After round 11 this team was sitting outside the top four with one win so far this season. Lilydale was represented by James Buckland and Alex Jerin.

Lilydale played at home against Montrose who are sitting in third place on the ladder. Lilydale fought hard and started well in the doubles going down 7-6 in the tiebreak. In the end we were beaten 5 sets to 0, with Montrose winning 31 games to 11.

Result:

Open Rubbers 13 (OR13) v Wantirna Blue

After round 11 this team was sitting outside the top four with one win so far this season. Lilydale was represented by Noah Burow and David Halkidis.

Lilydale played at home this week against Wantirna Blue. Lilydale fought hard but in the end were beaten 5 sets to 0, with Wantirna Blue winning 30 games to 4.

Result: 3-6, 7-6, 0-6, 8-10 (super tiebreak), 3-6, 1-6

LilydaleTennisclubwelcomesallplayersof any age and ability. For information on how to join Lilydale Tennis Club please visit https:// play.tennis.com.au/lilydaletennisclub.

For all coaching enquiries (Juniors and Adults) please contact Andrew at Pro Touch Tennis Academy https://www.ptta.com.au/ contact

Open Rubbers 20 players Levi Daly and Tim Bassett came up against Miller Park.

Open Rubbers players Noah Burow and David Halkidis played against Wantirna Blue in round 12.

Pictures: LILYDALE TENNIS CLUB

Harry Norman (in black top) during Sydney City to Surf. Pictures: YARRA RANGES ATHLETICSMicah with his State XC medal.

Day of soccer celebration

By Peter Stephenson

Barkerettes (second) hosted local rivals Lilydale Montrose United (10h) in Women’s State 3 South. With three games remaining, they needed to stay ahead of Endeavour and Aspendale to reach the promotion play-off. It was also the day the club celebrated 20 years of senior women’s football, so for the second game in a row, the women had a decent crowd behind them.

The first chance came on six minutes when Kelly Butera hit a long shot over. Then on 17 minutes, Lisa Walsh hit a shot which LMU keeper Melanie Closter gathered at the second attempt. In a scrappy opening, further chances fell to Butera and Courtney Wipperfurth, but Closter was untroubled.

Until, that is, seven minutes before the

break, when Barkers won a free-kick about 25 yards out. Butera hit the ball over the wall but was denied by the crossbar. Half-time came with the score 0-0. This was not much of a spectacle, as Barkers were content to shoot from distance, and the shots either went wide or straight to Closter, whose positioning was sound.

The second half began with Barkers continuing to shoot from too far out – would they ever break the deadlock? Just before the hour, Walsh was caught offside on the left wing –free-kick to LMU. From the free-kick, LMU dangerously played the ball across the top of the box. It fell to Jones, who hit a first-time pass to D’Ortenzio. She ran into the box, held off a defender and smashed the ball home for the opening goal.

Two minutes later, a Butera free kick went to the far post, where Barrueto headed wide. Then with 15 minutes to go, Walsh had a shot blocked, and D’Ortenzio hit the rebound wide.

You always felt that one goal would be enough against LMU, but with nine minutes to go, the game was settled. A through ball from D’Ortenzio forWalsh found her just onside despite muted LMU protests, and she ran clear and slotted home to make it 2-0.

After the champagne and caviar of the Endeavour performance, this was stodgier fare. However, a local derby changes the dynamic. Finally, it would be remiss not to give some credit to LMU. Although they barely troubled Barkers keeper Ashleigh Fraraccio, they had no bench and never gave up. With two games to go, Gippsland have clinched the champion-

ship, but Barkers stay second, in the box seat for the play-off position.

On Saturday afternoon, the men (fourth) visited bottom side Heatherton United, entertaining slight hopes of promotion. These were dashed as a goal from Geordie Scott was cancelled out by a Heatherton penalty and the game finished 1-1. The reserves was somewhat farcical, as Barkers demolished a makeshift Heatherton side 12-0 to record their biggest victory for 39 years.

In junior football, this week’s winners were Boys’ Under 14 (5-0 v Knox City) and Girls’ Under 13 (3-1 v Manningham United). Next week, the men host Doncaster Rovers (Esther Park, Saturday 1pm/3pm) while the women have a week off for a catchup round. See you down the Kennel!

Matildas focus on recovery before England Cup test

By Anna Harrington, AAP

Fear not - there won’t be any friendly fire in Matildas camp ahead of their huge Women’s World Cup semi-final against England.

That’s because there’ll be barely anyone on the track.

With a four-day turnaround between the mentally and physically draining quarterfinal triumph over France and Wednesday’s final-four clash at Stadium Australia, recovery is on the cards.

Heavy legs will be stretched and eased back into action, while bruised bodies will be spared any load beyond the 120 minutes and penalties players spent on their feet on Saturday night.

It’s all about chasing that spot in the final.

“We’ve got the best medical staff in the world,” midfielder Katrina Gorry said.

“So we’ll be doing a lot of recovery. We get to Sydney, sleep as much as we can, eat as much as we can, drink as much as we can and be ready.”

Time on the pitch will be replaced by meetings, tactical work and treatment.

“What is good is that we have continuity with what we are doing and clear playing styles,” coach Tony Gustavsson said.

“We don’t really need to train to be tactically prepared.

“It is more about making sure we are mentally and physically prepared for the semi-final coming up. These players are on a mission.”

Gorry, Alanna Kennedy, Clare Hunt, Steph Catley, Ellie Carpenter, Caitlin Foord and Kyra Cooney-Cross have played at least 476 minutes of a possible 480.

Hayley Raso, Mary Fowler and Emily van Egmond have also been busy, while Sam Kerr played 65 of her 75 minutes to date against France.

England only needed 90 minutes to complete a 2-1 comeback win over Colombia but previously went to penalties against Nigeria.

Between injuries, suspension and a for-

mation change, England have rotated their squad more.

Only Alex Greenwood and Millie Bright have played every minute but Lucy Bronze, Georgia Stanway and Rachel Daly have also carried significant loads.

It makes who can go the distance, if required, an intriguing proposition.

Catley had a compression bandage on her right thigh upon arrival in Sydney on Sunday.

On Saturday night, Cooney-Cross had one of her shins iced after a nasty challenge early in the game.

Catley hailed and backed her team’s fitness and commitment.

“It’s just using years of hard work, years and years of running and conditioning and everything that you know, you’ve put in the work and prepared for, it prepares you for moments like that,” she told reporters.

“You can fall back on the work that you’ve

done, and I’ve done plenty of it and so has every other girl out there and I think that’s what it comes down to.

“It’s the work you’ve put in and the understanding of each other and helping each other and if someone’s struggling someone else steps in and helps.

“So that’s where we are as a team right now and everyone’s there for each other - if one person falls down, the next steps up and it’s very, very special.”

The Mooroolbark women’s soccer team were greeted with a guard of honour to celebrate 20 years of female soccer at the club. Pictures: MOOROOLBARK SOCCER CLUB

The senior women and junior girls celebrate female soccer.

The Matildas celebrated a nail-biting win against France to land them in the semi final.

Picture: MATILDAS SOCIAL MEDIA

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