Mail - Mountain Views Star Mail - 15th August 2023

Vets march in tribute

TheVietnamVeterans Association Of Australia, Outer Eastern Melbourne Sub-Branch, 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

Tree stands firm

By Tanya Steele

The latest Yarra Ranges Council Meeting on Tuesday 8 August has further decided the fate of the remains of theWarburton Tree.

Over 400,000 has been spent on the tree leading up to its recent pruning and the meeting was turbulent with a community and council still clearly divided over the issue.

The Council eventually voted in favour to retain what remains of the large tree to “en-

hance the biodiversity value of the tree and immediate surrounds.”

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Councillor Jim Child said, “Works at this tree have caused considerable community angst and I hope that this decision will now help to reunite our community.

The meeting was drawn out both by a late petition from the community and a motion from Cr Child to remove the tree completely.

Ms Sterratt from the Yarra River Keepers associations said the tree is part of the land.

“This tree is part of us. It’s part of the Birrarung and we don’t want to see this tree die a death by 1000 cuts,” she said.

Cr McAllister said she thanked the community and highlighted the very known and serious risk the tree posed. “The community passion and voice on this has been profound.”

The meeting ultimately concluded with four councillors in favour of the motion (Cr Heenan, Cr Skelton, Cr Cox and Cr Fullage) and three against.

The council released information on its website Tuesday 9 August that details plans for the tree and a 10 metre exclusion zone, with fencing and planting.

Ms Fischer and others in the community on TheWarburtonTree Facebook group celebrated the result and thanked the council for their welcome at the meeting.

“It is a good outcome that meets the needs of the community,” she said.

More on Page 5

Vietnam Veterans from the outer east marched on Sunday 13 August to commemorate 50 years since leaving the conflict.

Picture: TANYA FAULKNER

Privacy breached

An investigation report into VicForests recommends improving governance of surveillance activities to protect personal privacy.

On Thursday 10 August the Victorian Information Commissioner published an investigation report into historical allegations that VicForests conducted unlawful surveillance on several members of the public – who were all conducting legitimate opposition to actions of VicForests at the time.

The report found that, sometime in 2010 or 2011, VicForests hired a private investigator to conduct covert surveillance of two environmentalists and a university professor – to gain information to discredit them.

While the private investigator attempted to conduct surveillance of all three on behalf of VicForests, he only collected personal information of one environmentalist – by taking photos and video footage of her going about her daily activities.

The Information Commissioner found that VicForests’ collection of that environmentalist’s personal information through covert surveillance seriously and flagrantly contravened Information Privacy Principle (IPP) 1.1 because it was not necessary for any of its functions or activities and IPP 1.2 because it was unlawful and unreasonably intrusive.

“Whilst the surveillance took place almost a decade ago, the seriousness of the allegations led my office to conduct the investigation upon becoming aware of them. The contraventions of IPP 1.1 and IPP 1.2 were ultimately found to be both serious and flagrant. No one in the community should be subjected to this incursion on their personal privacy,” Commissioner Sven Bluemmel said.

The Information Commissioner found that the contraventions of IPP 1.1 and IPP 1.2 were enabled by a lack of governance of surveillance activities at VicForests at the time. He therefore considered issuing VicForests a compliance notice in accordance with section 78 of the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (Vic) (PDP Act).

However, whileVicForests rejected the findings of the investigation – based on its view that the Information Commissioner could not be satisfied on the evidence that the alleged surveillance occurred – it has recently developed a new Security and Surveillance Policy addressing OVIC’s concerns about the governance of surveillance activities.

The Information Commissioner therefore decided not to issue a compliance notice but instead made five recommendations to ensure the new policy is properly implemented. VicForests has accepted the recommendations and the office will closely monitor the implementation of the policy and recommendations.

“I would encourage any Victorian government agencies and statutory authorities considering surveillance to proceed with caution. Its purpose must be necessary for your organisation’s functions or purpose and it must be proportionate to a legitimate aim. If in doubt, don’t undertake. If surveillance is required, ensure adequate protections are in place to protect the privacy of individuals being surveyed,” said Mr Bluemmel.

This investigation also highlights the need to uphold and protect individuals’ privacy. Respecting privacy in the use of surveillance protects the human rights of allVictorians and Victoria’s democracy.

New CCTV footage to aid burglary case

Yarra Ranges Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a burglary at a fire station in Hoddles Creek that occurred last month.

It is believed that two offenders arrived at the Lusatia Park Road property in a Ute about 5.45am on the 30th of July.

These offenders gained access through the locked rear door of the premises before attempting to unplug the CCTV cameras. Rifling through various storage shelves and three vehicles, the culprits piled up an assortment of tools and a generator at the rear of the premises.

The stolen items were then carried to a vehicle, described as either a white or silver Commodore or Falcon Ute with a black tray

which appeared to belong to the offenders who then proceeded to depart in this same vehicle.

One of the men was wearing a black hoodie with an unidentified white logo, black tracksuit pants and white Asics runners whilst the other was wearing a black jumper with a round white logo on the left side, an inside-out white polo t-shirt with black/dark blue trim around the head and dirty grey coloured Everlast tracksuit pants accompanied with black shoes.

Both of the offenders have thin builds and appear to be aged in their late teens/early 20s.

Investigators have released CCTV of a vehicle believed to have been involved.

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

Investigators have released CCTV of a vehicle believed to have been involved.

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.

Car catches fire in fatal Kangaroo Ground 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

Learning about timber, chop chop 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. Horrific and offensive graffiti in Seville

A Seville resident noticed over the weekend of 5 and 6 August that some vulgar and hatefilled graffiti has appeared at the Seville water play area.

Racist statements and images were spray painted along the back of one of the structures near the water play area and the resident was shocked and horrified by the graphic content.

Yarra Ranges Council have been notified and took immediate action to clean up the area, they encourage residents to always report graffiti so prompt action can be taken.

Multi-unit approach to ranges rescue

Local CFA and SES crews have helped rescue a family of hikers who found a walk at Taggerty’s Cathedral Ranges more difficult than expected.

Two parents were walking on Wells Cave Track with their two children on Sunday 6 August when they unable to get down the cliff and called emergency services.

Marysville and Alexandra SES units were called by police at around 3.30pm and located the family an hour later.

Monbulk Fire & Rescue Brigade and Wandin Fire Brigade crews were called just before 5pm to assist in a high angle rope rescue.

Also supported by the Buxton and Marysville fire brigades, the family was brought down the rock wall to safety and escorted back out on the track in torchlight to the the carpark.

The incident was deemed safe at 8.19pm, a CFA spokesperson confirmed.

The family members were uninjured.

Picture: VICTORIA POLICE

Victorian Information Commissioner has published an investigation report, asserting that VicForests conducted unlawful surveillance in 2010. Picture: ARNO SENONA ON UNSPLASH

Forum focus on 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 damageoccurringatthehandofyoungpeople, 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.

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

Council splits, tree remains

By Tanya Steele

The latest Yarra Ranges Council Meeting on Tuesday 8 August has further decided the fate of the remains of the Warburton Tree.

Over 400,000 has been spent on the tree leading up to its recent pruning and the meeting was turbulent with a community and council still clearly divided over the issue.

The Council eventually voted in favour to retain what remains of the large tree to “enhance the biodiversity value of the tree and immediate surrounds.”

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Councillor Jim Child said, “Works at this tree have caused considerable community angst and I hope that this decision will now help to reunite our community.

The meeting was drawn out both by a late petition from the community and a motion from Cr Child to remove the tree completely.

Ravenna Keller spoke of the petition with 375 signatures that requested the council move the carpark from the tree in Warburton as allowed for in the Council’s own tree policy and mitigate risk to the public by creating a fenced off nature reserve instead, retaining this valuable habitat tree.

Ms Keller said the petition was originally created with a view to making a middle ground, between safety and community when the tree was still a full tree.

“A lot of these people were locals, for the character that the town has and the tree is a part of that,” she said.

Cr Child said the council couldn’t amend the petition on the fly and that it was specific in saying the car park needed to be moved.

“We have to consider this petition how it’s presented to us,” he said.

A motion was then carried unanimously to receive the late petition, note and refer it.

Nicole Fisher and Charlette Sterrett later spoke in support of the recommendation included in the arborist officer report.

Ms Fischer said she spoke on behalf of a large portion of our community in what has been a long drawn out and expensive process.

“Driving into this section of town was always met with the sheer presence of this tree - and despite its heavy reduction, I’m pleased to say that that presence still exists,” she said.

Ms Sterratt from the Yarra River Keepers associations said the tree is part of the land.

“This tree is part of us. It’s part of the Birrarung and we don’t want to see this tree die a death by 1000 cuts,” she said.

Cr Child asked several questions about the risk profile of the tree and said he wanted to know more about the fencing and how the exclusion zone around the tree would work.

The current planning level estimate is $20,000 and Director of built environment and infrastructure Hjalmar Philipp said this type of planning estimate had not been done before.

“It would involve preparing the base and putting up the fence - as detailed design goes that that may increase slightly, but that’s our planning estimate,” he said.

To address the cost to taxpayers, Cr Child said he wanted to know the current cost from

the tree and Mr Philipp said the most recent sum is now up at $476,000.

Cr Child then moved a motion alternate to that printed in the agenda and said he wanted to obtain a permit to proceed with the complete removal of the tree to eliminate any associated risks.

“I believe it wasn’t a good result to leave that magnificent tree as a 10 meter stump. And with significant decay in the base of it and still propose proposing a risk to the community,” he said.

The council engaged in a discussion from both sides detailing both the risk from the re-

mains of the tree and the benefits to the community and environment in keeping it.

Cr McAllister said she thanked the community and highlighted the very known and serious risk the tree posed.

“The community passion and voice on this has been profound,” she said.

Cr Skelton said she could see sense behind the motion but that the risk had been mitigated enough for her to be comfortable and Cr Cox said the tree was an important historical tree.

“Every tree has risk, if something were to fall it would fall inside the zone,” he said.

“I sincerely hope it has growth continuing and it provides habitat and that’s the most important thing,” Cr Heenan said.

The meeting ultimately concluded with four councillors in favour of the motion - Cr Heenan, Cr Skelton, Cr Cox and Cr Fullager and three against - Mayor Child, Cr McAllister and Cr Eastham.

“Tonight this council is making this decision, divided,” Cr Child said.

The council further released information on its website Tuesday 9 August that details plans for the tree and a 10 metre exclusion zone, with fencing and planting.

The Draft Warburton Urban Design Framework (UDF) proposes ‘an enhanced connection betweenWarburton Highway and the new pavilion through a defined entry forecourt’ (section 5.4 Draft Warburton UDF) and to formalise the car park which would include linemarking.

Ms Fischer and others in the community on The Warburton Tree Facebook group celebrated the result and thanked the council for their welcome at the meeting.

“It is a good outcome that meets the needs of the community,” she said.

What remains of the tree.

Picture: SUELLEN GREEN

The tree in May this year when protests were underway. Picture: ON FILE

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

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.

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

Community art space opens

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 the World’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.

Affordable Yarra Valley winery makes

Oakridge wines has just taken home the title of ‘Best Value Winery of the Year’ at the 2024 HallidayWine Companion Awards announced last week on the 3 August.

Selected from a pool of several thousand entrants, the prestigious Halliday Wine Companion Awards determine Australia’s top wines, wineries and winemakers.

Oakridge’s own wine connoisseur David Bicknell conveyed his satisfaction at the achievement of ‘Best Value Winery’, and said this award is “important because, for us, it shows our commitment to producing high quality while making the wines affordable as well.”

Wine Companion Editor Campbell Mattinson said “Oakridge proves that to drink the very best, you don’t need to break the bank,” illuminating the notion that great wine does not always have to come at a great expense to customers.

James Halliday, adept wine maker, critic and founder of the Halliday Wine Companion, leads the yearly analysis along with eight other Aussie experts. This group of judges employ meticulous criteria and testing strategies when working to identify Australia’s greatest names in wine.

As wineries from a multitude of regions

its mark

such as Kangarilla SA, Langhorne Creek SA and Porepunkah Victoria appeared among the 2024 awards, it is significant for the local Yarra Valley area to make a feature and nonetheless, in a customer-friendly manner.

On top of this, stealing the title from last year’s winner of Best Value WineryDeep Woods Estate in Margaret River WA, Oakridge Wines highlights that the flavours of the cold climateYarraValley are not to be reckoned with.

Russian rocket creates a comet-like spectacle for all

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.

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 Mil-

ner 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.

Authorised by Cindy McLeish MP, Shop 10, 38-40 Bell St, Yarra Glen.

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

Picture: CLARE LEVER

Amanda Hand and Jenine Godwin-Thompson officially open the park. Picture: TANYA STEELE

Oakridge Wines chief winemaker David Bicknell in 2017. Picture: ON FILE

Meet Your Local Principal

I am proud and privileged to have been the Principal of Wesburn Primary School for the past 18 years. Our motto, We Learn for Life, epitomises the values we place on developing well-rounded students equipped for adult life. These values consistently help to ensure that our whole school community values diversity, strives for excellence, has high expectations and encourages resilience and respect for all. Our highly effective teaching practices include individualised and stimulating learning for all students, as well as a strong sense of connectedness, inclusion and safety. Student learning is supported with relevant intervention programs and tutoring, and participation in the Victorian High Ability program. Wesburn staff are committed to providing the best possible education for every student so that they can reach their full potential.

Parent volunteers are an asset to our school through school council membership, parents and friends committee, classroom and kitchen class helpers, excursions, etc., and help to make it such a special place to learn. Our students also have many opportunities to influence school directions with a strong student representative council and attendance at school council meetings.

Anne Stenhouse Principal

A broad range of opportunities including the Kitchen Garden Program with Stephanie Alexander, school performances, camps, buddy program, chess club, woodwork club, swimming program, and specialist classes in art, physical education, music and Japanese provide many experience for students. The

school, including our playgroup staff, maintains a strong relationship with pre-schools and secondary schools to support a very effective transition program. In 2024, the school will commence an out of school hours care program for before and after school times. We are committed to supporting all families and their students, hence why our student wellbeing is sohighly regarded.

Our ongoing vision is to ensure the highest quality teaching for all students, empowering them to be actively engaged in their learning, to be resilient, reflecting school values, and contributing to the development of the whole school community. Please take the time to visit our school for a tour - you will be most welcome.

Healesville High School has an outstanding academic record and has been an active and responsible community member, serving Healesville and surrounding districts with distinction since 1961. Our staff members take great pride in ensuring a safe and welcoming learning environment for all students. Our vision for Healesville is that of an exciting learning community where all students are challenged to achieve success and to pursue excellence and our school also prides itself on offering an extensive range of dynamic and engaging academic and extra-curricular programs. I welcome your interest in Healesville High School and encourage you to contact me to discuss any aspect of school life or to arrange a school tour.

Mr. Allan Rennick Principal

Meet Your Local Principal

Our Values are RICH

Respect, Responsibility, Resilience - Integrity - Caring - Honesty

Hoddles Creek Primary School has a proud tradition of over 100 years of teaching and learning in the Yarra Valley. I began my teaching career at Hoddles Creek Primary back in 2002 and I became the Principal of our school in 2018. I am very lucky to be able to have the opportunity to teach in the classroom part time as part of my role as a teaching Principal.

We have such a passionate staff who are incredibly dedicated to the work they do with our students. Our parent community and the wider school community are an asset to our school with their support in fundraising efforts, reading with students in the literacy block and assisting in any way they can.

As a mother of three, I am well aware of the individual needs and different learning styles and rates of all children. Teaching and learning are a passion of mine and I feel blessed to come to work each day to be able to see our students set personalised learning goals and strive to achieve them. We enjoy celebrating student successes every day at Hoddles Creek.

Hoddles Creek Primary is a smaller school so we are able to truly offer an individualised learning program for all our students. Together, students and staff set high expectations for achievement, but in a friendly, caring and supportive environment where wellbeing is a major focus.

We offer a warm welcome to anyone who is looking for a caring school with supportive and dedicated staff. Students are welcome to have a “try” at Hoddles anytime! Feel free to call the school on 5967 4282 or drop in anytime for a visit or school tour.

Facebook: Hoddles Creek Primary School Noticeboard

HoddlesCreekPrimarySchool

700GembrookRoad,HoddlesCreek

Ph:59674282

www.hcps.vic.edu.au

Gladysdale Primary School is a wonderful school. So much so that after teaching here 20 plus years ago as a classroom teacher I have come back as the Principal! This is my first year back as the Principal and I love it. Gladysdale PS has a wonderful community family feel where everyone is a friend and every works together. Parents, students and teachers work together to ensure that everyone can be the best they can be. Gladysdale offers everything a big school offers with a personal touch.

Gladysdale Primary has an individualised curriculum for all students ensuring the best personal growth in Academic, Social, and Emotional outcomes possible. Literacy and Numeracy along with our Specialist programs of STEM, Art, Physical Education, Auslan, Respectful Relationships, and Performing Arts allow for growth in all academic areas and including Zones of Regulations and our Wellbeing programs this enables us to have Happy Resilient and Confident students.

We also have a secret helper, Rosie our puppy who is training to be an Assistance dog!

We really are the Small school with Big Benefits!

With over 14 years’ experience of teaching and leading in both Primary and Secondary settings, it is an honour to be the Principal of such a student-centred school. Warburton Primary School is a vibrant, dynamic and progressive learning community, founded upon our five school values of Respect, Bravery, Personal Best, Integrity and Strength. Students are understood, seen as individuals, and catered for with a richly diverse, engaging, and meaningful curriculum.

We have high expectations of our students and staff, cultivating a warm community where students feel safe and are taught to take responsibility for their learning behaviours. Our students are given every support they need to thrive. Student learning is catered for with an expertly differentiated classroom practice and is complimented by rigorous intervention, tutoring and a stimulating high abilities program. In addition to this, we provide an extensive range of opportunities including our flourishing Harvest Cafe kitchen garden program and specialist classes of Art, Physical Education, Music and Auslan. Our transition program allows for a fun and smooth pathway from Kinder to Prep and is complimented by our onsite Platypus Playgroup and long-standing connections with the early childhood centres in the area.

Warburton Primary School’s vision is for every student to have a high-quality, individualised education, centred upon a positive connection to community and nature. We look forward to seeing you for a tour of our beautiful school.

Upper Yarra Secondary College is proud to be a central hub in the beautiful Yarra Valley community. The College is proud of its students and their fantastic achievements both within the College and beyond. We are particularly impressed with the academic successes of our students, all the way up to Year 12, which were celebrated at our mid-year awards ceremonies. The College is currently undertaking a modernisation program of facilities to reflect the innovative teaching and learning occurring within the school and school grounds. It is pleasing to see our students enjoying the beautiful surroundings and activities on offer that supplement high-quality teaching instruction. We are a wonderful school and having recently achieved a positive 4-year review, we are excited for what lies ahead.

Tara Jenner Principal

Scott Tully Principal

Leanne Timoney Principal

Principal Nathan Van Der Monde

Meet Your Local Principal

Developing independent, confident and creative learners in an individualised learning environment

YPS values Teamwork, Respect, Responsibility & Independence

I am very lucky that as well as being the Principal at Yering Primary School I also get to provide learning experiences for the P/1/2 class.

We offer individualised learning and develop Individual Education Plans for all students. We endeavour to develop the emotional and social traits to encourage the cognitive abilities in our students and we promote the use of student voice and agency, with confidence and respect, throughout the curriculum, encouraging student to set goals and challenge themselves.

We get to know our students well, forming good staff/student relationships during their time at Yering, due to our size.

Our annual school production, celebrating student achievement, attending a variety of sporting events and the many other wonderful opportunities and excursions that we are able to provide in a small school, are significant highlights for our students. While we enjoy providing our students with a great variety of experiences as part of their learning, we are mindful of keeping costs to a minimum.

At Yering Primary School, we have a clear focus to continue to improve student learning outcomes and aim to provide a safe and caring environment in which all students can feel safe and achieve.

Feel free to call me to arrange a tour. I would be delighted to show you around our school. Follow us on Facebook.

YeringPrimarySchool

22-24MelbaHighway

Ph:97391451

www.yeringps.vic.edu.au

Our school is certainly a special place for students to learn. Our caring teachers provide learning experiences and practices that allow every child to explore their talents, promote curiosity and achieve personal learning growth. The culture of Yarra Junction Primary School is inclusive, friendly and positive and this is reflected within our students and staff.

At Yarra Junction Primary School we believe that all children can and will achieve. We understand that every child is unique and follows an individual progression of learning. We support learning growth through positive teacher student connections, a passion for learning and through skilled planning, analysis and teaching.

Yarra Junction Primary School exists to provide future opportunity and choice for our students through quality education. We value knowledge across a range of curricular areas by providing rich Literacy and Numeracy learning, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Physical Education, and Community Studies (History/ Geography/Civics and Citizenship/Language (Woiwurrung)) with perspectives of our First Nations People. Our school values - Respect, Resilience, High Expectations and Collaboration are integrated into all our teaching and learning. Our vision is to develop each child’s social, emotional, and academic growth by nurturing our students to become creative, curious and critical thinkers within an engaging and connected learning environment.

At Yarra Junction we are developing leaders’ one student at a time through our leadership programs and student responsibilities. We value our strong links with our parents and wider community and welcome friends of Yarra Junction Primary School into our learning spaces.

At Yarra Junction we have beautiful grounds that include three playgrounds, an oval, an outdoor netball/ basketball court, sports stadium, Memorial garden, Vegetable patch, Yarning Space and Dry river bed garden. This school has been an extension of my family for over 20 years, I am well and truly engrained here in every aspect. I genuinely feel fortunate to have been a part of the learning journey of so many students both in the role of a teacher and as the Principal.

My job is simply the best, who doesn’t like being greeted everyday by smiling, happy, enthusiastic children? My name is Oliver Thockloth and I joined the staff at Woori Yallock P.S. in 2011. It has been my great privilege to lead the Woori Yallock P.S. community for the past seven years as Principal, where I have watched the school grow at all levels. Our school is a vibrant learning environment. Students start learning from the day they arrive where achievable goals are set and teachers pay individual attention to each and every student.

We have two school values, high expectations and respect, these values are displayed and demonstrated each and every day making the school a happy, calm but studious environment. Our school sits on a very generous allotment giving children the space to play and socialise. It is exciting times for the school as we are very close to moving into our brand new modern facilities.

I asked one of my grade six students, “what is the best thing about Woori Yallock P.S?”The answer was instant and didn’t surprise me,“the teachers”.

Rod has been a principal for over 37 years, the last seventeen at Millwarra (Millgrove and Warburton East). He is deeply committed to the notion of nurturing the whole school community, students, parents and staff. Rod is always quick to point out that happy children learn better. To this end, student wellbeing is as important to him as the core curriculum areas.

Rod is well known for his cheerful disposition and sense of humour. The children at Millwarra call him the singing principal, and he really does have a song for every occasion. More importantly, he knows every student and family well. A father of seven, Rod has a deep understanding of the challenges facing mums and dads as they raise kids in an increasingly challenging world.

His staff will tell you that he is a compassionate and dedicated educational leader. Finally, in the words of one of our Grade 4 students, Kayla, “He is the most wonderful principal ever, he is the best.”

Millwarra Primary School

Rod Barnard Principal

Deanna Cole Principal

Oliver Thockloth Principal

Meet Your Local Principal

Mick Corr is the Principal of Chum Creek Primary School.

“The students, families, staff and supportive community of Chum Creek Primary School all make my job a very rewarding one. I love the relaxed atmosphere we encourage and enjoy the close interaction with our students and their families”.

Chum Creek Primary School’s values are represented by the 3 R’s of Resilience, Respect and Ready To Learn. “Our school prides itself on supporting the development of the ‘whole’ child. As well as helping our students do their best academically we also vigorously pursue an agenda of wellbeing as well as a range of artistic and environmental endeavours. We love our school’s rural environment, and past students have fond memories of building cubbies and playing in the native bushland of our schoolgrounds. Established in 1897, this year marks Chum Creek Primary School’s 125th year as an integral part of the Chum Creek and Healesville West communities, a tradition we expect will continue long into the future. Our small school community is close and supportive and we are often visited by past students and families who remember our school fondly”. Call anytime for a chat or to arrange a tour.

ChumCreekPrimarySchool

705ChumCreekRoad,ChumCreek

Ph:59625391

chumcreek.vic.edu.au

I am indeed privileged to be the Principal of Toolangi Primary School and increasingly proud of our incredible students and supportive school community. Our learning spaces and grounds are spectacular. TPS has a proud tradition of teaching and learning that spans over 100 years. Our school motto is ‘Every child by Name and Need’ which prioritises the individual strengths, needs and interests of every child. Our values of Respect, Integrity, Responsibility and Understanding are practiced daily within our school community. Our vision is to cultivate curious and innovative young minds, to encourage a life-long passion for learning through the promotion of academic excellence, communication skills and creativity. Every day we engage in individualised teaching and learning in a beautiful natural environment that enables us to maximise the academic achievement and wellbeing of every student. Our core business of English and Mathematics remains our priority supported by a wide range of learning within our Guided Inquiry, Science, Kitchen Garden, Physical Education, The Arts, and our Japanese languages programs. We have a strong community connection and recognise the important partnership between community, school, and students. We encourage you to look at our Facebook page to view many of our programs, activities, and school events. If you would like more information about Toolangi PS, please contact us via our website at www.toolangips.vic.edu.au or call us on 5962 9255.

Ph:59629255

Welcome to Seville Primary School, where every child’s journey to success begins! Nestled in the heart of our Seville community, our school is a nurturing haven for young minds to thrive, explore, and achieve their fullest potential.

At Seville Primary School, we believe in a holistic approach to education that combines rigorous academics with character development, fostering well-rounded individuals who are ready to conquer the challenges of the future.

Seville Primary School is a caring community in which every child can thrive. Our dedicated team believe in our students’ abilities and nurture their individual skills, empowering them to be the best they can be. Our close-knit community looks after every person, every day.

At Seville Primary School, children are encouraged to develop their own learning style through our engaging and diverse teaching, and to take ownership of their learning through individual goal setting and student choice. Students love getting their hands dirty in our sustainability program, taking joint responsibility for our extensive vegetable gardens, and learning AUSLAN as our chosen second language as well as weekly PE, Art/Science and Wellbeing lessons, catering for all our students.

I encourage you to have a look at our Facebook page to see the vast amount of engaging activities and events we provide our students. Book a tour to see how we can cater for your child.

SevillePrimarySchool

639WarburtonHighway

Ph:59644557 www.sevilleps.vic.edu.au

Healesville Primary School provides a friendly, secure and encouraging environment for our students and community members. We highly value the contribution made by every member of our school community. Our vision is at the core of everything we do. ‘At Healesville Primary School we inspire all students to be curious, creative and engaged lifelong learners. We develop resilient, confident and respectful students who have the necessary skills to be a valuable member of their community.’

The school values of Respect, Community, Confidence and Learning are the foundations of our school. Using these, we have built our School Wide Positive Behaviour program. We pride ourselves on our calm and orderly learning environments, which are engaging and inviting. Our team of professional educators and dedicated support staff take great pride in the standards of both our curriculum and extra-curricula activities. Our curriculum offers a balance of Literacy, Numeracy, Positive Education, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) Physical Education as well as Creative Arts. Our students further develop their sense of community by participating in Cultural Education, which focuses on the Culture and Traditional Heritage of Healesville. Our students learn the language of the Wurundjeri people. I feel very lucky to be working at such a wonderful school that has the community at its core. Our grounds are spectacular, with numerous outdoor learning environments and plenty of spaces for imaginative play. Our culture is one of high expectations for all leaders, teachers and students. We encourage our students to be the best they can be and to give everything a go.

Sally Herbert Principal

Tracey Robertson-Smith Principal

Michael Corr Principal 12626981-AP33-23

Christopher Dossor - Principal

Meet Your Local Principal

Waiting to be discovered

Our school is a vibrant and caring place of learning. At Launching Place Primary School we know LEARNING is DOING. We challenge our students to be curious and sprint towards their learning goals. As a School-wide Positive Behaviour School with Bronze accreditation our Launchers respect others, exercise care and compassion; and demonstrate responsibility. LPPS is situated in an attractive, natural bushland setting behind the Jadodade Community Park. Our school enrolment is currently 160 students. We are small enough that your child and your family are known by name; and large enough to provide the academic, co-curricular and social opportunities that are so important to your child’s growth and development. Our curriculum is based on the understanding that students learn best through being engaged and active in their learning. We provide a comprehensive and sequential curriculum using our gradual release, ‘I do, we do, you do’ model for teaching and learning. Our highly experienced staff provide a caring and stimulating learning environment for all. Specialist classes in Science, Japanese, the Arts and Physical Education, ensure that all Launchers have the opportunity to learn and excel in subjects of interest. We pride ourselves on the continued academic success of our children as we prepare them to be contributing citizens in our local and wider community. Get in touch and let me show you around our place!

Launching Place Primary School

20A Carter St, Launching Place

Ph: 5964 7783

www.launchps.vic.edu.au

Damian Tirchett, Principal

100 % Parent Satisfaction 3 years running

Come and see how Silvan Primary School provides a close-knit family oriented environment for those wanting something more for their child’s primary education Celebrating diversity and strengthening engagement – Silvan’s physical resources are most impressive from our kitchen garden centre to our human resources - dedicated staff, art therapist and volunteers.

This adds up to a learning experience with outcomes that are unique to the Yarra Ranges; catering for all varieties of students and families. At our school student’s needs are quickly identified and all available resources are engaged so that each child has every opportunity to develop not only academically but also socially and emotionally, with a real sense of purpose.

“What we achieve by working together is made more meaningful simply because we did not do it alone.”

At Silvan Primary, our community works together in common pursuits educating children to be considerate of themselves and others, inclusive, strong in character, tolerant and capable of making the right decisions for the right reasons.

Silvan Primary School

269 Main Road, Silvan Ph: 9737 9258

www.silvanps.vic.edu.au

I hold the care, safety and well-being of my students as my fundamental responsibility.

I nurture the personal, spiritual and academic growth of the students, encouraging them to be confident, successful, creative and innovative learners.

I believe in close partnership between parents and schools, based on mutual responsibility, respect and trust.

Children will learn, given quality instructions, support and encouragement. Students should receive direct, explicit instruction on behavioural expectations and be acknowledged for appropriate behaviour.

I value opportunities for students to spend time exploring our natural bush setting and participating in camps, excursions and sports activities

I am committed to reconciliation through education and strongly believe that Aboriginal culture, history and spirituality should be at the forefront of Catholic Education.

Ultimately, I am committed to providing students, families and staff with a positive experience at St Joseph’s School.

St Joseph’s Primary School

40 Milners Rd, Yarra Junction

Ph: 5967 1183 sjyarrajunction.catholic.edu.au

I am proud to be the Principal of St Brigid’s School, located in Healesville. I commenced at St Brigid’s in November 2022 and have enjoyed getting to know this wonderful school community. Healesville has always been a place of retreat for me, I do not live locally but enjoy the beautiful drive to work each day. I am a mother of four sons and my husband and I live in Greensborough. Family is one of my key values and I consider my school community to be an extension of my family.

I am a passionate educator, always looking for ways to improve and support our students. I have worked in many different roles from classroom teacher, many varied leadership roles, to Deputy and Acting Principal at St Thomas in Greensborough North. I love to learn and have recently graduated from Australian Catholic University having achieved a Masters of Business Administration. I believe that we are all learners and encourage everyone I encounter to seize opportunities to learn every day.

St Brigid’s is a wonderful community, one where learning and wellbeing are paramount. The students are at the centre of all of our decision-making and an essential part of this is our relationship with parents. Another key unique feature of our school is our strength in student leadership and voice, we focus on the ministries of School Spirit, Sustainability and Social Justice with one student representing indigenous perspectives across each of these ministries.

Tess Dwyer

Laura Caddy Principal

Nicholas-Boyhan Principal

Pictures of inspiration

By Gabriella Vukman

While the days are gradually growing longer, folks from the Upper Yarra Community Branches are enjoying leafing through the submissions for this year’s Upper Yarra Community Calendar Competition.

Having opened again and taking submissions until 1 September, the ‘My Upper Yarra’ competition is once again creating a common ground for the local community.

The competition, run by the Bendigo Bank Community Branches, is open to all age groups and features an array of prizes ranging from the community voted ‘people’s choice’ awards to the favourites among judges and branch staff. The competition even features a runner up and winner category for under 18s.

Community Bank board administrator and community liaison June Petrie shares a fondness for the competition and said “the focus is on the online exhibition and more about ‘let’s get as many people involved as possible’.”

Ms Petrie expresses the ”warm fuzzy feeling” she feels upon seeing all of the submissions and how every photo has multiple experiences behind and attached to it.

From participants who send copies of “our calendar…to [relatives] in England,” to families “getting the kids to go out and take their photos”, the opportunity for individuals to find and be inspired by the beauty of their local area and community talent is great for bringing the community together.

The competition has also served as a platform for up and coming photographers with a participant who received an award going on to receive a cadetship with the AFL for photography.

“We’ve had…participants [who] have a passion for photography and who are wanting to do photography as a career path,” Ms Petrie said.

The competition ran for the first time in 2013 and has since then been gaining more and more support from the community.

Transitioning from a physical walk-through exhibition to an online platform during Covid, the competition has become more accessible to the community, with the engagement of an ever-widening variety of participants.

Appearing on the judging panel among a

series of photographers this year isYarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child who will aid in the selection process of the judge’s choice prizes.

All entered pictures can be viewed and voted for via the online exhibition on the UpperYarra Community website (link below) and winners will be announced on 8 September.

Competition entries are also accessible via the website, with conditions maintaining that photos must be taken within the Warburton and Yarra Junction postcode ranges. Entrants must also either live, study or work in this same area. Photo entries must be a minimum of 300kb so as these images can be printed in high quality for the calendar should they win.

The top 12 winning pictures will be assembled to create a free calendar that will be available to collect from the Warburton and Yarra Junction Bendigo Bank branches on 1 December.

The Upper Yarra Calendar Competition has come a long way since its founding and provides a momentous opportunity for the community to unite, share and celebrate the beauty of the Upper Yarra Valley.

“[It is] inspiring that people are sharing their take… on what’s attractive about and why they love where they live,” Ms Petrie said.

For more information visit the Upper Yarra Community website at: https://upperyarra. net.au/upper-yarra-2024-calendar-competition-and-online-exhibition/

Wandin Yallock Primary shows its green thumb

By Gabriella Vukman

On Sunday the students of Wandin Yallock Primary School swapped their school shoes for boots as they participated in a councilendorsed 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 is 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 Landcare Week and

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.

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 sixty 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 theWandinYallock School to take part in the process and Jill hoped this collaboration would mark “the beginning of a hopefully continued partnership.”

Community diary

FOGO sessions

Yarra Ranges Council will be holding in person and online information sessions to break down how the new Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) kerbside collection service will work for consumers.

The council will host a Zoom information session on Wednesday, 16 August from 7pm8pm. Booking for the online session is required.

An in-person session will be held at Yarra Junction Library on Saturday, 19 August from 10am-noon.

Residents can speak to members of the Council’s Resource Recovery team to ask questions about waste collections – FOGO, recycling and rubbish. The sessions will assist people to find out more about upcoming changes and how to use the new FOGO collections.

No registration is required to attend.

From 2 October this year, the new system is set to make it easier to reduce waste and stop material going to landfill while reducing harmful greenhouse gases.

The new service will provide people with the opportunity to place garden clippings and food scraps, including meat and bones, into the FOGO bin instead of the rubbish bin, saving around 13,500 tonnes (or 1,700 garbage trucks) of food waste going to landfill every year.

For more information head to the Yarra Ranges Council website.

Big Cakes for Red Cross in Launching Place

On Saturday, 2 September the Yarra Valley Red Cross Branch will be holding its monthly stall at

Launch Fresh, Warburton Highway, Launching Place from 8am - 2.30pm.

This month we’re part of the Red Cross Big Cake Bake as well as our usual range of jams, preserves and knitted goods.

Big Cake Bake is just one way the organisation raise money to help people going through tough times.

It’d be sweet if you could support them.

The money raised at Big Cake Bake events around the country will go towards Red Cross’s vital everyday work helping people and communities, in Australia and across our region - from assisting elderly and isolated people to stay independent at home, to helping newly arrived migrants and people seeking asylum settle safely in their new home and responding to natural disasters when they occur.

Debibs for the Community

Five more community accessible defibrillators per year will be coming to the UpperYarra.

Defibrillators are key to surviving a cardiac arrest and these defibs help keep people safe and save lives so Community Banks Warburton and Yarra Junction have committed to provide Five Defibs per year starting now.

Community Banks Warburton and Yarra Junction invite applications for the inaugural allocation for this exciting initiative. Applications are now open and applications will close by midnight Wednesday 23 August, 2023. Visit the website to apply and for all the details

https://communitybankwarburtonyarrajunction.smartygrants.com.au/

Misty Hills from Yarra Junction.

Picture: GRAEME EDWARDS

Smiling teachers around freshly planted tree

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

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.

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.

Final weeks of showing

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 Celtic experience told through voice of folk

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 andWales. I was living among 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 colonisation but how the traditions of signing, 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 Is-

landers,” it reads. “We want to 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.

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

Yarra Ranges Regional Museum

Exhibitions Curator Maddie Reece with the two local portraits by Tom Goldner and Ivan Gaal. 352805 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

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

Maddie Reece looks at Silent Stength by Wayne Quilliam, the winning portrait for 2022. 352805

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)

13 Donor (5)

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

No. 146

No. 146

No. 146

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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

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

DavidCarroll M 0419539320

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

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

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.

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· 6 Star energy rating

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· Massive double garage and relaxing lifestyle location ●

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WHIMSICALHOMEINWONDERFULPOCKETPOSITION 3 A 1 B 2 C

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

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54LeonardStreet,UPWEY $990,000-$1,089,000

BEAUTIFULFAMILYHOMEINENTICINGHILLSLOCATION 4 A 2 B 2 C

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

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13WynetteAvenue,UPPERFERNTREEGULLY $855,000-$940,000 LARGEFAMILYHOMEWITHPOOLANDHILLSIDEVIEWS 4 A 3 B 2 C

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

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

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SPORT

Some tight, tense games

By Sarah Morton

Healesville U9 Redbacks 0 - 1 Rising Tekkers

It was a very tight match at home against the Tekkers who were a very organised and structured team.

All the boys played well and some great work in defence from Isaac in repelling multiple attacks in the first half saw the score 0-0 at half time.

The second half was similar arm wrestle as both teams tried to break the through the lines.

Some great attacking runs from Arlo and Max couldn’t unfortunately net the Redbacks a much deserved goal and their keeper proved very hard to get past! The deadlock was broken by the Tekkers with a great individual effort from their striker but the Redbacks were unable to answer.

Final score was a 1-0 loss but the boys walked off with their heads held high after a solid performance from the whole team.

Healesville U10 Reds 1 – 3 Berwick United

On a drizzly over cast morning the Reds found themselves short two players, but Robbie and Ardi from the U10Whites for stepped in to play straight after their own match.

Berwick United showed great sportsmanship with several skilful players.

They would have been further ahead at half time but some fantastic goal keeping from Alex P stopped Berwick running away.

A great individual goal by Ronan G late in the second half - his first for the season- ended the match on a high.

Healesville U10 Whites 2-2 Croydon Ranges

Blue

As play commenced, drizzle at the Don Rd home ground saw parents and friends in attendance huddle under umbrellas.

Healesville took an early lead through Ardi, who found the back of the net with a familiar dribble and rush on goal.

With the majority of the forward attack Healesville missed a few close opportunities, despite having quality ball movement and passing.

A dazzling display from a skilful and gritty opponent got Croydon’s game going with a very determined effort to tie it up at 1-1 after the break.

Moments later Croydon grabbed the lead with another goal that saw Healesville begin to press hard as the clock wound down.

Austin found himself with the ball at his feet and had a shot on goal and appeared to be thwarted by the goalie.

The Parental VAR decision determined that Austin’s shot on goal was indeed a goal. However, the goal was disallowed.

Some amazing forward attack by Zak and Evan sightedWill running towards the far right corner of the ground.

A well timed pass found it’s mark and Will again proved extremely dangerous when kicking across his body, netting Healesville’s second goal.

A very entertaining match to watch from the sidelines.

Healesville U12s 3 – 4 Knox Strikers

Healesville faced top of the table Knox Strikers who beat Healesville convincingly the first time around. Healesville started the stronger of the two sides and had an early goal, from Jake Bouma, disallowed for offside.

Healesville then found themselves two goals behind as the outstanding Knox number

Notices General Classifieds

REDGUM FIREWOOD

Notice is given of a PUBLIC MEETING to be held at 140 DEE RD, MILLGROVE at 9.00am on 28th August, 2023.

The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or more than nine (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the Millgrove Camp Recreation Reserve for a term of three years. The current committee’s term will expire on 17 SEPTEMBER, 2023.

All positions will be declared open and nominations will be accepted prior to or at the meeting. Nominations from women, Aboriginal people, people with disabilities, young people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds are encouraged.

5962 4301

Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action office. For further enquiries please contact Tim Hatten on 0409 004 694.

Motoring

12, who was head and shoulders above everyone else, bagged both break away goals.

Goals either side of the break by Manny W and Tex C levelled the game, but another goal and an assist from Knox’s number 12 gave them a two goal cushion again.

Healesville threw everything they had at Knox for the last 15 minutes but only managed to score once, though Mack B, with less than a minute to go and ran out of time for an equaliser.

Ryder H put in an excellent performance and second half Goalkeeper Cooper W-B showed great courage.

Every player deserved a big pat on the back for a superb effort in defeat.

Healesville U14 3-2 Maroondah United Resilience, Determination, Focus, Effort and Teamwork.

The u14s played their last away game of the year against Maroondah this week with no subs.

It took quite a while to break the deadlock but through some Sam K magic Healesville struck first, going on to score the first three goals from there.

Will W added to his season tally before some absolutely brilliant team play and superb passing ended with Sam K netting his second goal.

Healesville had three goals before Maroondah struck their first just before half time.

With no subs the U14s had to change formation to protect their lead after Maroondah put their second in not long into the second half.

Continued effort and determination helped Healesville to protect the lead all the way until the final whistle coming away with a 3-2 win and third win in a row.

Other results

U9 Whites 3-1 Knox

CADET JOURNALIST

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

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

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

We are seeking:

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

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

Coach Graham Turner encouraging the Healesville U9 Redbacks in their game against the Rising Tekkers. Picture: SUPPLIED

SPORT An amazing, special day

By Alex Woods

On the weekend, WMFNC completed their home and away season for 2023. They also hosted Alexandra for their First Nations Traffic Management Indigenous Round.

What an amazing and packed day!

All 5 games of netball,Wesburn Junior Footy had a showcase match and 2 football games.

Early morning start at 8am and Yarra Junction were able to get involved and take on our D Grade (Alexandra don’t have a D Grade side).

A Great start to the team as they went into quarter time 11-0. It was cold and the court was slippery, but they managed to keep the ball in their possession and went into the second half 24-0.

The defenders worked amazingly, keeping the oppositions for only 1 goal in the last quarter for the who game, and finished off with 43 to themselves. D Grade finished off the season undefeated with 11 wins.

Cam Partel, Tayah Humphrey and Nikita Aldridge were all named top performers with Tayah Humphery putting up 24 goals and Cam Partel with 19.

D Grade take Powelltown, Saturday for a spot in the Grand Final.

Well done girls!

The 17 & Under team took on Alexandra.

A solid start by the Burras with a half time score of 10-2. They continued the on scoring another 7 in the 3rd quarter to Alexandra. The defenders kept the opposition to only 1 goal in the last and getting another 4 for themselves. The team has gone through 2023 undefeated, winning all 12 of they games.

Lucas Rush, Grace Cole and Tayah Humphrey were all stars of the match, with Tayah shooting 18 goals, Lexi Cole with 2 and Amarli Weir with 1. The team take on Alexandra again for a spot in the grand final.

C Grade took the court next. They had a great start having a half time score of 25-8.

They kept the momentum going into the

second half and shot another 11 goals in the 3rd quarter to Alexandra’s 6. Last quarter was again a bit one.

The defenders worked tirelessly keeping the opposition to only 1 goal scored in the last and Burras secured another 13 for themselves.

Ruby Kelly, Grace Robinson and Nicole Winzer were top performers. Mel Hancock scored 32 goals and Cam Holland had 17.

The C Grade girls finished 2nd on the ladder and will take on Yarra Glen for the first spot in the Grand Final on Saturday.

Well done team.

Reserves took the field after the Wesburn Junior Footy showcase matches.

They got off to a strong start kicking 4.3 to Alexandra’s 0.2 in the first quarter.

They continued into the second quarter kicking the exact same and kept Alex to only 1.3.

They went into half time with a 43 point lead. Second half they kept the pace going and secured another 6 goals & 8 behinds. Alex secured a few more goals but the win was for the Burras. 14.14-98 to 6.6-42. Another undefeated season for the boys and fighting for the first grade final position on Saturday against Powelltown.

Caelan Flynn, Jamie Nelson, Damien Egan,

Tyler Bert, Jackson Jones and Matthew Sidari were all top performers with Damien Egan having another mega game with 7 goals.

Tyler Bert, Caelan Flynn, Marcel Kocher, Cody Ladewig, Jed Tapsall, Mick Walker and Brett Winzer all secured 1 each.

Well done boys.

B Grade were up next for a fight to get a percentage boost for 2nd spot. A good start of 19-4, the burras went into the game with good pace and momentum. The second quarter, the defenders worked hard to keep Alexandra to only 1 goal scored, and the Burras secured 20 for themselves.

Second half was just as big as the first, 21 goals in the thirds quarter and 16 in the fourth. While keeping the opposition to 7 for the second half. A good game by the girls to finish off the season, with a final score of 76-12.

The second spot on the ladder was theirs and will take on Broadford next weekend for the first Grand Final spot. Alexandra Woods, Chelsea Barnard and Kelly Lewis were the top performers, with Alex shooting 41 goals, Jordy Butcher with 30 and Emily Hay secured 5. Well done team.

A Grade finished the netball off just after midday. Strong start from both sides with a 19-

Matildas focus on recovery before semi

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 quarter-final triumph over France and Wednesday’s finalfour 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 forma-

tion 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.”

14 quarter time break score line. Burras picked up the pace in the second quarter and shot 16 to 4. They continued onto the second half and grew the scoreline out more and more. The final score was 66-34 and they finished the season off with a high.

Top spot on the ladder for A Grade and they take on Broadford for a grand final spot on Saturday. Ally Langdon, KarlyWappett and Ashlee Guerra were top performers with Karly Wappett shooting 45 goals and Bianca Daniels with 21. Senior finished off the day. It started with a ceremony, MC’d by Matt Godenzi.

Rob Bamblett played an amazing didgeridoo piece and Aunty Julie Coombs spoke a touching Welcome to Country.

A gift exchange occurred and a coin toss by Daniel Rioli (a massive thank you to Rob, Aunty Julie and Daniel for coming down for our special day).

Then it was time for the bounce. Alexandra took control of the first quarter, 2.1-13 to 4.327 was the quarter time score.

Unfortunately, Alexandra continued that into the second quarter and went into half time with a 20 point lead.

A half time reset, but Alexandra still continued with their pace and aggression.

They wanted the game in their control and that is what they had, it wasn’t the Burras day but we will continue onto next weekend to secure that Grand Final position.

6.5-41 to 12.12-84 was the final score.

Josh Sharp, Thomas Marr, Nelson Aldridge, Dylan Walker, Tyson Henry and Blake Muir were all top performers for the Burras. Nelson Aldridge and Brady Mitchell both kicked 2 goals each, Tom Barr and Blake Muir both had 1 goal each for the game.

The Burras finished on top of the ladder and will play Alexandra again on Saturday. Well done boys.

7 massive games on Saturday, all fighting for the first grand final position.

Horse Talk

By Anita Prowse

Upper Yarra Pony Club have a number of Freshmans Show-jumping days coming up at Wesburn Park. These are open to anyone to attend and are an excellent training tool for riding a full round, which we quite often don’t have the facilities to do at home.

Horses are restricted to a MAXIMUM of 5 rounds per day. All open riders must sign a Liability Waiver, and pay the fee required, as per Insurer’s cover requirements. Heights start at 45cms, and increase during the day. Spectators are welcome and canteen is running for snacks and refreshments.

The money taken from these days is put in our Grounds Account to raise funds for works, in particular, our crosscountry fences which are well overdue for an upgrade. As the general public also use these facilities, supporting days like this are always important. Even if you aren’t riding, our canteen can also be supported.

As always, any enquiries to anita. horses@gmail.com or 0409953345.

Dates are as follows:

· Saturday September 9th

· Saturday October 14th

· Saturday November 4th

See you there and Happy Riding!

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

Picture: MATILDAS SOCIAL MEDIA

Upper Yarra Pony Club have a number of Freshmans Show-jumping days coming up at Wesburn Park. Picture: SUPPLIED

The club extended a massive thank you to Rob, Aunty Julie and Daniel Rioli for coming down for our special day. Picture: SUPPLIED

SPORT Slippery conditions win

By Anne-Marie Ebbels

Round 16 was Healesville against Seville at Seville, the Men’s senior team had a must win game to improve their chances to play finals and not having to rely on too many results going their way.

The A Grade netball was played in the rain after all the earlier games were dry.

The conditions deteriorated as the rain continued with puddles developing and the court becoming slippery.

The Healesville team started well and went goal for goal the first part of quarter one.

The conditions suited the taller Seville side who powered ahead to a 21-goal win.

It was another tough assignment for the B Grade side with Seville putting their stamp on the game from the start.

Seville extended their lead in the second quarter with a 21 goal to one quarter and continue to dominant for the rest of the game winning by 64 goals.

The first quarter of C Grade was tough with low scoring from both team.

The Healesville team was boosted by the inclusion of some of the female footballers playing now that their season was done.

Seville came out after quarter time and put in a strong performance to lead by 19 goals at half time, they continued this momentum into the second half and were winners by 37 goals.

After a slow start in D Grade, Healesville had a strong second half matching Seville goal for goal in the third quarter.

Seville came back with a strong final quarter and ran out winners by 28 goals.

In the Men Senior football, Healesville needed to win to keep their final aspiration alive.

They started the game well heading into

the quarter time break 2 points up.

A similar story in the second quarter saw Healesville increase their lead to 4 points at the main break. The rain came for the second half and Seville kept Healesville goalless in the third quarter to go into the final break 2 points up.

In the final quarter, both teams attacked scoring four goals each with Healesville having nine scoring shots to six during the quarter to win by the smallest of margins and move into fourth spot on the ladder.

The Reserves struggled to penetrate the Seville back line with only two scoring shots for the first three quarters of the game with only two scoring shots.

Seville came out after half time and peppered the goals scoring five goals for the quarter.

Healesville managed to get a major in the final quarter, but were never really in the game with Seville running out winners by 85 points.

This week netball is being played inYea and the footballers have a bye prior to the final home and away round for the season.

Football

· Senior Men Healesville 72 defeated Seville 71

Best: N Mende, Z Fawdry, S Donkin, M Jones, L Daly, J Bates

· Reserves Healesville 10 defeated by Seville 95

Best: R Hargreaves, T Campbell, S Larose, G Thompson, D Ebbels

Netball

· A Grade Healesville 12 defeated by Seville 33

· B Grade Healesville 10 defeated by Seville 74

Best: C Haywood, M Dougherty, H Blackney

· C Grade Healesville 17 defeated by Seville 54

Best: S Maile, R Beaumont, K Deuart

· D Grade Healesville 48 defeated by Seville 20

Best: C Mecuri, C Booker, R Beaumont

Sonia Aloi with a strong grab.

Pressure increases but Powelltown outlast Yarra Glen

By David Ball

In the final home and away game for the season, Yarra Glen took on Powelltown in a contest that Powelltown needed to win to have a chance to take a top two spot.

The visitors started well to take a 2 goal lead into quarter time.

Yarra Glen lifted in the second quarter and with their midfield matching it with the Demons, they were able to get back into the contest, closing the gap to 11 points at half time.

Powelltown were cleaner with their disposals, making it hard to the River Pig defenders who were playing on bigger and stronger opponents.

Yarra Glen started the third quarter dominating general play and half way through the quarter, they managed to hit the front on the scoreboard.

An upset was on the cards as the River Pigs improved their connection as they went forward.

As the rain came, Powelltown’s skill levels started to shine.

They were spreading well and hitting their targets with precise foot skills.

Yarra Glen did not handle the wet ball well.

Powelltown kicked 3 late goals to be 20 points ahead at the last break.

As the rain stopped for the last quarter the River Pigs got back into the game and forced Powelltown to dig deep.

Each time Yarra Glen goaled, they were able to respond and whilst Yarra Glen outscored Powelltown in the last, they went down, 13.8 to 15.12.

Best Players for Yarra Glen were Tom Sullivan, Richard Wyles, Richard Gurney, Josh Hawkins, Ryan Smith and Adam Beath. Goalkickers – Tom Sullivan 4, Josh Hawkins 3, Marcus Kikidopolous, James Brereton, Jim Marks, Richard Gurney & Callum Tucker.

Next week Yarra Glen and Powelltown meet again in the First Semi Final. (venue either Yarra Junction or Woori Yallock)

The Yarra Glen reserves had struggled against Powelltown in their previous two encounters and things didn’t start well in the first as Powelltown controlled the game to keep the River Pigs scoreless as they put on a wasteful 3.7.

The Yarra Glen boys really lifted in the second quarter, kicking 2 goals through club stalwarts LukeVanderstadt and Stirling Twite Moore.

Powelltown improved their forward conversion and went into half time 33 points ahead.

The third quarter was a real contest as the River Pigs tackled hard and with the increase in pressure around the ball held the demons to just the 1 goal for the quarter.

General play was fairly even in the last, Yarra Glen having many forward entries but failed to convert, kicking 4 points whilst their opponents added 3 goals from similar entries.

In a good effort, Yarra Glen went down to a better team, 2.4 to 10.16.

Best players were Ash Bryans, Alec Peterson, Luke Vanderstadt, Joaquin Gerovasilis, Josh Dick and Max Forbes. The Goalkickers were Luke Vanderstadt and Stirling Twite Moore.

Yarra Glen Netball D grade got the day started with another intense first quarter battle and held a 1 goal lead at quarter time against a top two opponent.

Things went terribly wrong for the Yarra girls in the second as Powelltown piled on 14 goals to Yarra Glen’s 2.

In the second half Yarra Glen got back their first quarter form to outscore the Demons by 3 goals. The final score was Yarra Glen 29 to Powelltown 37.

Best Players were Sam Chetcuti (22 goals), Sarah Matthews and Sky Corrigan.

Next week Yarra Glen will play Yarra Junction the First Semi Final.

Needing to win to secure top spot, the Yarra Glen C Grade girls controlled the early going to be 13 to 5 up at quarter time.

The second quarter was goal for goal as both sides controlled the ball well and converted their shooting chances.

Still holding their 8 goal lead, Yarra Glen lifted their defensive pressure to run out convincing winners 45 to 27.

Best players were Sarah Orlandi (31 goals), Jacinda Fraser and Ash Shanks

Next week the C Grade girls play Warburton Millgrove in the Second Semi Final.

Yarra Glen B Grade took on second placed Powelltown and after an even first half were just 2 goals down.

The second half saw Yarra Glen take control and shot 43 goals to 17 to finish up with a great win, 56 to 41.

Best players were Georgia Crundale (43 goals), Casey Wandin Collins and Tammie Milbourne.

Next wellYarra Glen will meet Powelltown again in the First Semi Final.

The Yarra Glen A Grade game was a battle between 3rd and 4th.

The result wouldn’t change the makeup of the final four but was important for the team’s finals preparation.

In a high quality game both sides moved and controlled the ball well and in a goal for goal first quarter scores were locked at 13 each.

Powelltown controlled the ball better and had opened up an 8 goal lead by the last break.

Yarra Glen lifted their intensity in the last and in a barnstorming finish fought back to tie the game, both sides finishing on 52.

Best players were Maddy Hargrave (42 goals), Alana McGurgan and Kim Williams.

Next week Yarra Glen face Powelltown again in the First Semi Final.

Maddy Hargrave shooting one of her 43 goals for Yarra Glen.

Picture: JAYNE BASHFORD

Picture: KYLIE ROWE

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200t F Sport

$22,990 DRIVEAWAY

1 OWNER VEHICLE WITH LOW KMS, AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, CURTAIN AIRBAGS, ABS BRAKES, STABILITY & TRACTION CTL, FULL ELECTRICS, REVERSING CAMERA, CRUISE CONTROL, DAYTIME RUNNING LAMPS, CLIMATE AIR CONDITIONING, BLUETOOTH AUDIO, VOICE COMMAND, TINTED WINDOWS, ALLOY WHEELS, BLACK METALLIC DUCO, FULL DEALER SERVICE HISTORY, 5 STAR ANCAP SAFETY RATING, RWC & WARRANTY.

2017 Toyota Hiace

1WU3HJ

$33,990

DRIVEAWAY

AIRBAGS, ABS BRAKES, STABILITY CTL, AIR CONDITIONING, FULL ELECTRICS, CRUISE CONTROL, SEALED CABIN, REVERSING CAMERA, REAR PROTECTION BAR, BLUETOOTH AUDIO, VOICE COMMAND, TINTED WINDOWS, TOW BAR, TOYOTA SERVICE HISTORY, RWC & WARRANTY.

$16,990 DRIVEAWAY

LOW KM WAGON IN EXCELLENT CONDITION WITH SPORTS AUTO 6 SPD TRANSMISSION, ECONOMICAL 2.0 LT PETROL MOTOR, CURTAIN AIRBAGS, ABS BRAKES, STABILITY & TRACTION CTL, FULL ELECTRICS, AIR CONDITIONING, ALLOY WHEELS, FOG LAMPS, AUTO HEADLIGHTS, BLUETOOTH AUDIO, VOICE COMMAND, HEATED FRONT SEATS, SERVICE BOOKS, SILVER METALLIC DUCO, 5 STAR ANCAP SAFETY RATING, RWC & WARRANTY.

$22,990 DRIVEAWAY

7 SEAT AWD WAGON IN SUPERB CONDITION WITH SPORTS AUTO 6 SPD TRANSMISSION, TURBO DIESEL 2.2 LT MOTOR, 5 STAR ANCAP SAFETY RATING, DUAL ZONE CLIMATE AIR CONDITIONING, FULL ELECTRICS, LEATHER INTERIOR, CRUISE CONTROL, REVERSING CAMERA, REVERSING SENSORS, SAT NAV, BLUETOOTH AUDIO, VOICE COMMAND, HEATED DOOR MIRRORS, AUTO HEADLIGHTS, RAIN SENSING WIPERS, TINTED WINDOWS, KEYLESS ENTRY WITH BUTTON START, ROOF CROSS BARS, TOW BAR, EXCELLENT SERVICE HISTORY, SILVER METALLIC DUCO, RWC & WARRANTY.

WAGON IN EXCELLENT CONDITION WITH TURBO DIESEL

2018 Ford EcoSport ATS049

$38,990 DRIVEAWAY

SUPERB CONDITION WITH SPORTS AUTO 6 SPD TRANSMISSION, TURBO DIESEL 2.3 LT MOTOR, DUAL AIRBAGS, ABS BRAKES, STABILITY & TRACTION CTL, FULL ELECTRICS, AIR CONDITIONING, CRUISE CONTROL, REVERSING CAMERA, REVERSING SENSORS, BLUETOOTH AUDIO, DEALER SERVICE HISTORY, WHITE DUCO, RWC & WARRANTY.

$21,990 DRIVEAWAY

LOW KM WAGON WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, CURTAIN AIRBAGS, ABS BRAKES, STABILITY & TRACTION CTL, FULL ELECTRICS, AIR CONDITIONING, CRUISE CONTROL, REVERSING CAMERA, REVERSING SENSORS, ALLOY WHEELS, FOG LAMPS, SAT NAV, BLUETOOTH AUDIO, VOICE COMMAND, APPLE CARPLAY / ANDROID AUTO CONNECTIVITY, SERVICE BOOKS, GREY METALLIC DUCO, 5 STAR ANCAP SAFETY RATING, RWC & WARRANTY.

2015 Honda HR-V 1DE7TI

2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Elite 1KW7XT

2016 Renault Master 1VO8MV

2014 Jeep Patriot Sport 1BW1VC