Mail - Lilydale Star Mail - 22nd August 2023

Books for all

It’s Book Week and that means it’s time to “Read, Grow, Inspire”, with the theme aiming to celebrate another generation of book lovers.

Gladesville Primary School students Jayden, Conor, Zoe and Piper shared with Star Mail some of their favourite books and what makes reading so much fun.

The annual Children’s Book Council of Australia event is always a fun way for teachers, librarians and parents to immerse kids into the world of books, while telling stories and sharing the importance of reading.

To see more on Book Week, hear from authors and some of Star Mail’s own staff, turn to pages 8-10.

Gladesville Primary School students Jayden (Grade 4), Conor (Grade 3), Zoe (Grade 5) and Piper (Grade 3) love a good book to get their imagination going. 354424

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Honoured at last

In 50 years, Australia’s perception of the Vietnam War has changed dramatically from not welcoming those who served home, to finally commending them on their gallantry.

On Friday 18 August, the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, communities across Australia marked 50 years since Australia’s involvement in the war, including the Mount Evelyn RSL.

In a small commemoration, Mount Evelyn RSL vice president John Sumner led a service and wreath laying against the wind and rain,

the Last Post was played, the Ode recited and the humming of the bagpipes cast a sombre sound over the cenotaph.

Despite many of the Yarra Ranges’ men returning 50 or more years ago, they are still only now gaining the dues they deserved, with medals and citations being presented.

Reflecting on a time of conscription and awaiting the call of your birth date, Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson tells of how he ended up in Vietnam at 20 years old and celebrated his 21st birthday in a waterfilled trench as

the Viet Cong fired on his campsite.

These days the story brings a smile and laugh to his face as he remembers the camaraderie.

Those friendships made throughout the war continue to this day, with Mr Dobson saying he still has regular catchups with those he served with.

It was this sentiment that Veterans’ Affairs Minister Matt Keogh reflected on at the national commemorative event in Canberra.

“It’s about knowing no matter how dire the circumstances, your mates will always have your back,“ he said.

At the time of going toVietnam, Mr Dobson said he was “happy to serve“ but as soon as he arrived, he realised it wasn’t Australia’s fight, so the next 12 months were about surviving. Looking back now, he said “I don’t want to in any way glorify war“ and thinks “everyone should question everything when it comes to war“.

To read more, turn to pages 4 and 5

Life-saving defib installed

By Mikayla van Loon

New life saving equipment has been installed in Lilydale, providing extra peace of mind to the community.

A defibrillator was opened at the Lilydale Community House (LCH) building on Hardy Street on Monday 14 August thanks to funding from Casey MP AaronVioli’s Stronger Communities Grant round eight.

LCH coordinator Suyin Chan said it was always part of the plan to get a defibrillator installed because it is often an older demographic using the facilities.

“We were really keen to get one here mainly because the Senior Citizens Club use the hall all the time so there’s a lot of older people here that attend who are at a higher risk,” she said.

“There’s a good chance of a heart attack or needing a defibrillator, also, for our own members who come to our activities, our cohort tends to be a bit older.

“There wasn’t one in this building and I just thought it was vitally important to have one. Also having it accessible 24/7 so that if anybody on the street needed one, it was there.”

Located externally on the front entrance to the building, Ms Chan said it makes it completely accessible to the broader community.

“It just gives people peace of mind, it gives the general public peace of mind and certainly the senior citizens, they will know there’s one here in case they ever need it,” she said.

Having purchased one from St John Ambulance that requires no previous training, Ms Chan said it allows everyone to put this life saving equipment to use.

“We bought one that speaks to you, that’s fully automated so there’s no risk of anyone doing something wrong. They will be talked through it by the machine.

“We just thought we’ll get the one that’s best

for saving lives. The fact that people don’t have to know how to do this sort of thing means they still have the opportunity to save someone’s life if it’s needed.”

Mr Violi congratulated LCH on its willingness to provide support to the broader community and commented on how essential this

kind of equipment is.

“Defibrillators are absolutely vital during cardiac emergencies. To have this defibrillator in Lilydale is a huge win for our community as it will save lives,” he said.

“The defibrillator will provide all who use the community house with a sense of relief

that in the event an emergency occurred, they have the equipment they need to ensure best chances of survival.

“It is a testament to the strong community spirit of theYarra Ranges that this machine has been purposely placed outside, to enable more members of the community to benefit from it.”

Members of the Lilydale Community House joined Yarra Range mayor Jim Child, Casey MP Aaron Violi and House coordinator Suyin Chan at the opening of the defibrillator. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Mayor Jim Child, Casey MP Aaron Violi and Lilydale Community House coordinator Suyin Chan spoke at the opening about the importance of this equipment.

Mr Violi had the honours of cutting the ribbon.

Trial for park death

By Mikayla Van Loon

A Healesville holiday park fronted the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court earlier this week for a committal hearing two years after a man died from a fallen tree branch.

Yarra Valley Park Lane Holiday Park entered a not guilty plea before the magistrate onTuesday 15 August to one charge under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

As the person in a position of “management or control of a workplace you failed to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that the workplace and the means of entering and leaving it are safe and without risks to health”, the charge reads.

Knoxfield man Ben Murphy was camping at the Don Road facility on 13 March 2021 when a large tree branch fell in the early hours of the

morning while he slept at campsite 93.

Despite emergency services arriving soon after, Mr Murphy died from his injuries.

The Victorian WorkCover Authority (WorkSafe) alleges the company failed to keep the workplace safe and without risk of harm to its patrons.

The charge alleges that Yarra Valley Park Lane could have engaged an arborist to conduct a yearly assessment of a number of trees in and around campsite 93 that were at risk of limb or branch breakage, which could have led to the injury or death of a person.

WorkSafe has indicated that this did in fact occur in the instance of Mr Murphy’s death.

The matter will now be heard in the Melbourne County Court after the magistrate directed the accused to stand trial in early September.

Woman arrested after alleged assault

By Mikayla van Loon

A woman has been arrested in Mooroolbark following an alleged assault in Mount Evelyn on Tuesday 15 August.

It is alleged a man, 23, was assaulted following an altercation at a property on Gardner Parade about 10.30pm, with local residents saying he appeared to have bleeding wounds.

Road and air paramedics were called to the scene to attend to the man’s injuries.

“A man believed to be in his 20s was airlifted to The Alfred Hospital with upper body injuries in a critical condition,” an Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said.

The Alfred Hospital confirmed the man had been discharged late on Wednesday afternoon.

A woman, believed to be known to the man, allegedly fled the scene before police arrived.

The 27-year-old woman was arrested in Mooroolbark on Wednesday afternoon.

She is assisting police with their enquiries.

Residents near to the area said on social media that police blocked off the street for much of Wednesday while detectives inves-

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

tigated the circumstances of the incident.

“The major crime scene unit has arrived now and I think they’re expected to be here for a good part of the afternoon,” one person said.

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.

Lions Park pedestrian closure

The pedestrian crossing and traffic signals at the Main Street Lilydale crossing will be temporarily closed from Monday 21 August to Friday 25 August, due to works to the footpath on the south side of the crossing at Main Street.

Pedestrians can still cross at the signalised crossing at the Lilydale Cenotaph/Ralph Goode Reserve.

The works are a part of the Lions Park Revitalisation Project, which will improve the public spaces and accessibility within the area.

Key works as part of this project include:

· Improving access to the parks and shops with a new ramp and stairs.

· Extension of outdoor dining and seating areas.

· A rock garden/platform allowing access to the water front of Olinda Creek.

· New outdoor seating and picnic areas.

· Formalising car parks.

· New lighting.

The is a co-funded project by the State Government’s Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions, and Yarra Ranges Council.

See a map of the area, with the cross designating the work area/temporary closure, and the green ticks designating where pedestrians can cross Main St, Lilydale, during the works. Signage is also in place at the site notifying pedestrians of alternate crossing routes while the works are taking place.

Electrical fire safety

Victoria’s fire services are calling on households to keep the safety and maintenance of their electrical equipment and appliances front of mind following a recent clothes dryer fire which destroyed a home.

Firefighters responded to a dryer fire in Casey which started in the middle of the night earlier this month.

Once a house fire starts it can spread rapidly and engulf your home in a matter of minutes.

In an average year, Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) and Country Fire Authority (CFA) respond to more than 3,000 residential fire incidents across the state.

Fire Rescue Victoria Commissioner Gavin Freeman, AFSM said Victorians should be wary of overloaded power boards, phone and laptop chargers and electric blankets.

“Electrical hazards in the home are a common cause for house fires these days, but you can greatly reduce your risk by taking some simple safety measures,” Commissioner Freeman AFSM said.

“Make sure you’re not overloading power boards. Don’t leave your phone charging overnight. And never put electrical appliances like hair straighteners and laptops on soft surfaces.

“Take the time to service your ducted heating and clean your range hood and oven regularly. Prevention is the best policy when it comes to fire safety.”

Remember, for electrical appliances:

· Using damaged electrical equipment and appliances can result in a fire. Only use appliances in good working order.

· Turn off all electrical appliances at the power point when not in use and ensure your home office is set up safely.

· Don’t use double adaptors.

· Only use power boards according to manufacturers’ instructions, never overload or have loose cables, and check regularly for damage.

In case of a fire emergency call 000.

Say yes!

Yarra Valley Park Lane Holiday Park entered a not-guilty plea before the magistrate.

Pictures: TANYA STEELE

The charge alleges that Yarra Valley Park Lane could have engaged an arborist to conduct a yearly assessment on site.

Police and paramedics were called to a property on Gardner Parade in Mount Evelyn after an alleged assault.

Picture: GOOGLE MAPS

50 years after

By Mikayla Van Loon

It’s 1968, you’re sitting in front of the television with your family but instead of tuning into your favourite show, you await the call of the next birth date to be called.

This is what happened to Vietnam veteran and now Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson the year he turned 20.

“The government knew you turned 20, so they contacted you and said your birthday would be put in a barrel similar to the big barrel they used to have for Tattslotto but with all the dates on it,” he said.

“If your birthday came up then you had to serve.

“I come from a big family and we’re all sitting around watching TV and it comes on. My sister says ‘Bill, I think you’ve won something’. My father said ’no, you didn’t win’.”

Not long after, a letter arrived in the mail requesting Mr Dobson report to the Puckapunyal training base.

Living in Sydney at the time and working as a compositor for the Manly Daily newspaper, Mr Dobson was called home to start his training.

“So I went to Puckapunyal and it was 10 weeks training up there. Now after that 10 weeks you go to core training and I was put in ordinance which was explosives and a bit of infantry training.

“After core training they ask you what you’d like to do, if you have any preference and I said, ‘Well, Singapore sounds nice’.

“And they said, ‘Well, we’ve got a place in Asia for you, but it’s not Singapore’ and I went to Vietnam.”

Flying eight hours to Darwin, a further eight hours to Penang and then eight to Vietnam in a Hercules aircraft, a cargo carrier primarily, Mr Dobson said it wasn’t the most pleasant of flights.

“It was a long trip and when we arrived there, one thing that has stuck in my mind, we flew into Saigon, and then we arrived at the airport in Nui Dat and the guy who picked me up in the Jeep had bullet holes in the windscreen on the passenger side,” Mr Dobson said.

“They would always use that Jeep to pick people up just to stir them up but I thought ‘what am I in for’.”

For the next 12 months, Mr Dobson would live in a four man tent surrounded by sandbags at least four feet high and a mosquito net covering his body.

As part of the ordinance unit, Mr Dobson spent much of his time going from base to base in Nui Dat through flat, open fields, driving along made roads and past rice paddocks.

“We were a combat supply unit so we did some combat with infantry and other times we would supply all the units. One of the things we used to do is drive ammunition to the various bases.

“We had a shower truck too, believe it or not. So it was this shower truck with a bladder

on it and another one that had socks on it and we would drive out to the fire support bases where the artillery were.

“We’d set up this portable shower and they’d look forward to it because they wouldn’t get a shower or new pair of socks for a month.”

The only thing keeping the Australian base from the enemy, Mr Dobson said, was a perimeter fence very similar to that of a “cattle fence” with “strands of wire”.

“So once you’re on the outside of that wire, you’re in their territory,” he said.

Mr Dobson said one thing he is proud of during Australia’s service in Vietnam is the rules of engagement they lived and worked by, ensuring not to fire on a village knowing women and children would be there.

Even with the Viet Cong fighting sneakily, like turning claymore mines back on the Australian troops, Mr Dobson said it was always honourable fighting by his fellow servicemen.

Upon returning home, Mr Dobson and three of his mates hopped on motorcycles and travelled around Australia, something he said was the best thing he could have done for his mental health.

Even though it was still a challenge to settle back into life at home, especially after being outside 24/7 for an entire year, Mr Dobson returned to the printing business and eventually started his own company.

From January 1969 to February 1970 Mr Dobson served in Vietnam and did his duty despite realising it wasn’t Australia’s fight.

“I realised not long after we arrived we shouldn’t be there, it was a civil war. So then it was a matter of surviving the next 12 months,” he said.

Prior to leaving for Vietnam, Mr Dobson said the nation was split into two groups - those who felt it was their duty to serve Australia and those who didn’t believe in the war.

“Blue collar workers like myself were probably more patriotic and you’d think ‘I’ll be in that, my father was in it, my grandfather was in it, I’m happy to serve, it’s a bit of adventure’.

“We didn’t know much about the Vietnam War, maybe the kids who were smarter than us did, but we didn’t pick up on it.”

Looking back now and thinking about the local people who gave their lives, like two Croydon butchers who lie side by side in a graveyard, Mr Dobson said it’s hard to believe it got to that.

“50 years on, I didn’t think I’d reach 22 let alone 77,” he said.

“It was all for nothing and I just think everyone should question everything when it comes to war, and just question everything because politicians aren’t always right. They took advantage of our patriotic duties.

“Everyone thought they were doing the right thing because we were told certain stories.”

Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson served in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970.

Picture: ON FILE

FOGO bin cost concerns

By Tanya Steele

Waste collection changes beginning in Yarra Ranges have been met with many objections and questions from residents.

Multiple residents have called Star Mail and aired their concerns about how the new system will work.

Niki from Mooroolbark said that her household already had a composting system and didn’t need a superfluous bin that would never be used.

“We were already forced to have a bin of one particular size,” she said.

Julia from Montrose said she didn’t want to pay for services she did not need.

“There are one or two things that do go in the rubbish bin, but apart from that - everything goes into the garden, everything is recycled, and generally our rubbish bins are quite empty,” she said.

Many of the concerns were raised by people who said they would not need to use the new system as they already composted and did not require the green-lidded food organics and garden organics (FOGO) bin.

The frequency of collection for the red waste rubbish bin (which would be collected

weekly) was also an issue for households that don’t produce large amounts of waste.

“It takes us between three and four weeks to fill it. But to be told we have to put it out every fortnight to get it emptied is again a waste of resources,” said Niki.

Niki said she wanted more options and would prefer to opt-out completely of the

green waste bin.

The Resource Recovery and Waste Services Policy formally known as the Waste Services Policy reflects the new operational waste collection services and requirements that are now needed to comply with recent changes to statewide waste management legislation.

As Victoria as a whole begins to adapt to the legislation, the Yarra Ranges Council will need to cater for residents and properties with a large spectrum of requirements.

The last council meeting on 8 August moved an amendment to the proposal to adopt the Resource Recovery and Waste Services policy with the caveat that an informal review will occur in six months.

The motion was carried unanimously. Councillor Johanna Skelton said at the time she considered the move a final piece in a puzzle.

“It’s still a whole lot cheaper for us to go on this journey as a community and all look at helping out everyone else who’s not there yet,” she said.

James from Helaseville spoke in objection to the waste changes and said he wasn’t too happy about them.

“I’ve always been a firm believer in mulching my yard trimmings and the chipping of any old woody material... to reinvest in my garden beds and yard. The green waste bin system never worked for me. And I see it as a waste of time for myself,” he said.

Cr Tim Heenan shared James’ concerns at the meeting.

“I accept that there are many people and I live in Mount Evelyn and so they do exactly the same as you.

“I’ve got many friends that have been putting all of their organics out and making sure they’ve been composting their gardens for decades... it’s a frustration that we share,” he said.

Cr Len Cox said many people would have issues with medical waste, in particular sanitary napkins and pads.

“It’s a serious issue and will affect a lot of people in the community,” he said.

Currently, residents can change the size of their bins but there are no packages that don’t include all three bins. Extra rubbish bins will cost a household $168.

The new FOGO service will be implemented from 2 October this year.

Remembering Vietnam’s forgotten veterans 50 years on

By Mikayla Van Loon

Gathering for a small service onVietnamVeterans Day, Mount Evelyn RSL members paid tribute to all 60,000 men who served and to one of their own, Roger Boness.

On Friday 18 August, the sound of bagpipes rang through the town marking the occasion at 11am.

Taking the opportunity to remember and honour Mr Boness, former RSL president, vice president John Sumner told a snippet of his service.

“Roger was in control of many fire support operations with his mates of 106 Field Battery. He was known to be a very brave soldier,” he said.

“He believed in the veteran motto, which is mateship, sacrifice and pride through his later years.”

Veteran Ken McKenzie recited the Ode, Tom Steele played the bugle and Mr Sumner laid a wreath at the foot of the cenotaph.

50 years on from the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War, those who served are still only now being recognised for it.

Mr Sumner and Mr McKenzie in mid-August each received the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, some 55 years after serving in the war.

Even after the fierce battle at Long Tan, Mr Sumner said the Australian government wouldn’t allow its soldiers to accept medals which saw the South Vietnamese govern-

ment hand out other items like cigar boxes to honour their gallantry at the time.

Mr Sumner, at just 19 years old, volun-

teered to serve his country, becoming part of the artillery unit 176 Air Dispatch.

“We used to lift the guns from one fire

support base to the other. Our job was very harrowing as well because I fought at the Battle of Coral Balmoral,” he said.

It was only in 2018 that Mr Sumner was recognised with a Citation for Gallantry for the Battle of Coral Balmoral which occurred in May and June 1968.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who attended an event in Ipswich on Friday, said Australians respected the valour, integrity and character of those who served in Vietnam.

“Let us say to every one of our Vietnam veterans, today and every day, we honour you, we thank you and we are sorry that as a nation it took so long for us as a nation to do so.“

He said the nation had matured enough to embrace the truth that “we can disagree with a war without diminishing the respect we feel for every man and woman who puts on our uniform and serves in our name“.

For the estimated 35,000 Vietnam veterans still living, 50 years later they feel as though they have the respect they deserve for taking up arms and putting on a uniform.

Veteran Russell Kennedy travelled from Melbourne to mark the occasion at the Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial in Canberra.

“Today is closure,“ he said.

“We weren’t accepted when we came home.“

Piper Iain Townsley played to mark the beginning of the service.

Mount Evelyn RSL vice president John Sumner led the service speaking of the late Roger Boness.

John Sumner laid a wreath at the base of the cenotaph. Pictures: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

The FOGO bins with their composting caddy can assist people to dispose of waste that would end up in landfill. Picture: TANYA STEELE

Getting back to a good life

By Mikayla van Loon

For young people who find themselves disengaged from school, struggling with their mental health or on a path to committing crimes, sometimes it can feel like there’s no way out.

But that’s why a local Chum Creek woman began The Good Life Farm 18 years ago, to give these young people a chance to get back on the right path.

Founder and CEO Lesley Porter and her team of social workers, counsellors and mental health practitioners offer a therapeutic program, mainly focused around animal therapy and structure.

“It’s Animal Assisted Learning and it’s life, social skills and an environmental program based on permaculture,” she said.

“My love of permaculture is the core values which are Earth care, people care, and fair share.”

In a tour of The Farm on Tuesday 15 August, members of Victoria Police and Casey MP Aaron Violi heard and learned about the impact it is having on local youth, as well as those who travel distances.

“Local police andVicPol are very supportive of any youth initiatives that are going to keep our youth out of trouble,” Healesville Police Sergeant Kirsty Swankie said.

Ms Porter said since the end of the pandemic “we do have a lot of school refusals” and a lot of young people are being homeschooled because of bullying, anxiety or entitlement.

Over 10 weeks, seven to 17 year olds from all over the outer east attend one day a week, with no access to mobile phones to ensure they are focused and are provided with a healthy meal.

“A lot of the young people nowadays don’t eat very healthily. So we are just trying to introduce good food as much as we can and carbs so they’ve got the energy to do the work throughout the day,” Ms Porter said.

A successful outcome for these young people is not rooted in setting life long goals, it is more about the ability to overcome personal challenges and find self belief.

“It really is about reengagement. So some kids will either go back to school, or go back and do a certificate but it’s about reengagement in some activity and from then on, we don’t know,” Ms Porter said.

“It’s enhanced social skills, it’s a much improved sense of self worth. It’s those sorts of things that are the critical building blocks,” board chair Frank Dixon said.

Having recently had an external evaluation done on the benefits and outcomes of The Farm, it was found to improve mental and emotional health; improve peer functioning; improve sensory functions; and reduce nega-

tive, damaging or harmful behaviours.

The report also found that the most effective time period for a young person to attend was over two terms.

“Over two terms will make the most impact. Anything after that is based on social skills,” Ms Porter said.

“Young people who do come after that, it’s usually because they’re not attending anything and The Farm really is just an anchor and they have made friends and that’s what you want to continue.

“But that depends on the funding. It depends on the needs of the young people.”

Working on the values of respect, care and connection, not only for people but nature too, Ms Porter said learning the basics of animal instincts was an important part of teaching the young people those values.

“We have really quite firm boundaries and we use those boundaries with the animals. So ‘that’s a really large cow. If you’re going to go out to that cow, this is the way you handle it and work with it’. And if they don’t listen, then they’re going to get hurt,” she said.

While never putting a young person at risk or in danger of getting seriously hurt because they are always accompanied by an adult, Ms Porter said listening was the foundational starting point of building trust to work with the animals.

Having always worked with children at pony clubs and little athletics, as well as coming from a somewhat traumatic background of her own, Ms Porter uses that to reassure the young people they are not alone.

“What changed my life was moving when I was 11 and I started working at a riding school and holiday farm and in those days in the ‘70s, you stayed there.

“All the kids that went there were actually in boarding schools, they had no parents. I had no parents either and it just changed my life and from that experience I thought one day I’m going to duplicate what that was.

“From every negative thing we have happen in our lives, there is a strength that you will gain from it.”

Empowering these young people with resilience to know that when something ruptures, they are able to repair it, means even if they graduate from the program and find themselves in a spot of trouble, they will always be supported by The Farm.

“The other thing about The Farm is the doors are never shut. So if they’re 20 or 30, I still get kids, not heaps, ring me and say can I come up or can I have a reference.

“The door is always open and I don’t think over the 18 years I’ve had one child that’s never been allowed to come back.”

Lilydale RSL begins educational sessions for schools

By Mikayla Van Loon

Lilydale RSL held its first educational session for local school students last week, adding to their knowledge of Australia’s involvement in wars past.

Year 10 students from Mount Lilydale Mercy College (MLMC) had the honour of being the first school group to use the new RSL facilities and hear from local historian Anthony McAleer.

Connecting the visit to their studies of the Kokoda Campaign during World War II, Mr McAleer gave the students a local lens to look through, while expanding on the battle itself.

First breaking down the differences between the full-time army and the volunteer militia, Mr McAleer told of the history of militia groups in Lilydale from the 1800s until the 1920s.

“When the war started in 1939, Lilydale actually had its own militia unit of part-time soldiers,” he said.

“Now, interestingly, this wasn’t the first time that part time militia soldiers had been set up in Lilydale. As far back as the 1890s, there was a Lilydale unit for what was known as the Victorian Mounted Rifles.”

By 1938 a new militia had formed in Lilydale known as the 24th/39th Battalion and by the time the war started there were around 45 local men serving part-time in the unit.

As many members of the militia groups volunteered for service in the Australian Imperial Forces, the government brought in conscription to backfill militia numbers on home soil.

Being a militia, Mr McAleer said “they weren’t allowed to leave Australia” but as the AIF continued to fight overseas, they felt as though they had been cheated and the militia had it easy.

“By 1941 the Second AIF were all overseas, so the government decided to then expand

the compulsory military training with the militia units. They made the militia full-time not just part-time, and they made it for all men aged between 19 and 35,” he said.

Later that year, the 24th and 39th Battalion were separated into their own entities, with the Australian government deciding to send the 39th on deployment to the Kokoda Trail.

“There were growing tensions with Japan, although we hadn’t actually gone to war with Japan yet,” Mr McAleer said.

“It was then decided to make the 39th Battalion a special infantry battalion for tropical service and to then send them to New Guinea.

“The government stated that because New Guinea was then a protectorate of Australia, as it had been since the end of World War I, and it was under the control of the Australian Government that the militia could serve there as well, because it was officially Australian territory.”

Among those who served as part of the 39th Battalion were Kilsyth twin brothers Alan and Jack Smith, Lilydale’s Jack Flanagan and Geoffrey Selman, as well as Monbulk’s Jim Cowey.

In June 1942, the battalion received orders to move up the Kokoda Track beginning the many months of trying to block the Japanese from heading further south.

MLMC 20th century Australian history teacher Matthew Reilly said the Kokoda campaign forms part of the students’ look at the Australian experience during that time period.

Having the opportunity to connect with the RSL and utilise the new facilities, Mr Reilly said was a valued part of the learning process for his students.

“I can give them a really broad overview but coming here gives them that detailed knowledge that I can never give them, that the textbook won’t give them,” he said.

“The ability to see some memorabilia, I

can’t do that in a classroom by myself. Coming here, making that connection, for some of them they may have never spoken to a veteran.

“Their experience with an RSL may be getting a bistro meal, they don’t often get to do the war stuff.”

Hoping to expand the program even further, Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson said “it’s a start”, with a group of Year 11s booked in to hear about the Vietnam War from local veterans on Tuesday 22 August.

“That was the reason we started the memorabilia room, to get this going,” he said.

“The schools are showing a lot of interest, we’ve primary schools coming soon. It’s something we should really be doing, it’s part of our job to just explain a bit of history.”

For any schools interested in joining the school’s program, contact the RSL by emailing secretary@lilydalersl.com.au

Historian Anthony McAleer, Mount Lilydale Mercy College student Jenna and Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson at the first education session held at the RSL.

The story of Kilsyth twin brothers Alan and Jack Smith was just one Mr McAleer told. Pictures: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

The Good Life Farm CEO Lesley Porter founded the animal based therapy program to help get young people back on the right path.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

Join the Extravaganza at Chirnside Park Lifestyle Centre's Family Fun Day!

PREPARE for an unforgettable experience that will thrill both young and old alike as Chirnside Park Lifestyle Centre invites you to their highly anticipated Family Fun Day on Saturday, September 2nd, from 10 am to 2 pm. Located at 266-268 Maroondah Highway, Chirnside Park, this event promises a day filled with laughter, excitement, and an array of activities that will make memories to last a lifetime.

Endless Delights Await: Step into a world of wonder and adventure as Chirnside Park Lifestyle Centre transforms into a haven of family-friendly festivities. This year's Family Fun Day promises an unparalleled lineup of entertainment, promising something for everyone to enjoy.

Live Music and Fox FM Extravaganza: Groove to the beats of sensational live music that will create an enchanting atmosphere throughout the day. Get ready to be part of the excitement as Fox FM sets the stage with their outside broadcast, capturing the heartwarming moments and spreading the joy far and wide.

Magical Moments and Entertainment: Prepare to be mesmerized by the talents of incredible singers who will grace the event with their captivating performances.Watchinaweasamagiciantakesthestagetocreatemoments of astonishment that will leave you spellbound.

Unforgettable Delights for Kids: For the little ones, the Family Fun Day promises non-stop fun. Witness their delight as they interact with friendly mascots, indulge in face painting and balloon twisting, and immerse themselves in a world of creativity with engaging craft activities.

Gastronomic Adventures: Satisfy your cravings with an enticing array of treats. From aromatic coffee served fresh from a charming cart to the delightful crunch of popcorn and the sweet swirls of fairy floss, there's a treat to please every palate. Sink your teeth into mouthwatering sausages from the BBQ, complemented by refreshing beverages from the nonalcoholic drink station.

Prizes Galore and Spin to Win: Spin the wheel of fortune and try your luck at winning fabulous prizes. With every spin, excitement builds as you anticipate what incredible reward fate may have in store for you.

Join the Celebration: The Chirnside Park Lifestyle Centre's Family Fun Day promises an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Come together with friends and family to share laughter, create memories, and indulge in a day of joyous celebration. The festivities await you on Saturday, September 2nd, from 10 am to 2 pm at 266-268 Maroondah Highway, Chirnside Park. Make your mark on this fantastic event by joining us for a day of boundless entertainment and thrilling activities. Whether you're seeking magic, music, delicious treats, or simply a day of shared enjoyment, Chirnside Park Lifestyle Centre's Family Fun Day has it all.

Don't miss out on this spectacular event. Mark your calendars, bring your loved ones, and get ready to make the most of a day filled with wonder and excitement. Join us for the Family Fun Day and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime!

Students gripped by fever

By Tanya Steele

Primary school students recently came together at the Healesville Library in a creative and sports fusion for an exciting talk by author Kristin Darell.

Students from three different primary schools were treated to a special presentation and workshop by the well known author of the “Football Fever” series on Monday 14 August.

Chum Creek, Healesville Primary and St Bridgets students formed the creative cohort and Children’s Service Officer Rose Herring said it was the biggest event the library has hosted.

“We had over 270 students for the sessions,

it was great,” she said.

“My mind is blown by how the day turned out and the kids had a great time.”

Ms Darell ran two back to back workshops to get the students inspired about character and plot development said she really enjoys coming out to more regional locations to work with kids.

“It was an amazing opportunity for me to come and talk about what I’m passionate about - which is stories,” she said.

The workshop went through some tips and ticks for character development and Ms Darell said that anyone can write and read and they can do that in ways that work for them.

“Books are a mirror – you can see yourself in books, which is a good thing for kids to be able to see into other lives but they’re also a door to let you walk in the shoes of other people,” Ms Darell said.

‘Football fever’ action-packed junior fiction series which features real players from the Matildas and Socceroos and Ms Daarell said the books had genuine quotes from real player experiences in them.

“To me the importance of storytelling and creating a generation of kids who believe in stories and want to tell stories, however it is they want to do that be it fiction or nonfiction, because stories are a time capsule,” Ms Darell said.

The event itself was planned well in advance and with the deliberate intention to catch a large group of kids to experience the workshop.

“I wanted to put on an event that was something that the schools maybe couldn’t put on their own that would go across all the primary schools and that we could put on here and it just was great timing,” said Ms Herring.

“We really wanted to get more events out this way for kids,” she said.

“The heart of all the stories I write is really the importance of kids doing something that they love with other kids who love it because then you feel brave enough to be you,” Ms Darell said.

Students from Healesville Primary and St Bridgets with Rose Herring (Left) and Kristin Darell (right). Pictures: TANYA STEELE Kids were really engaged for the author’s talk and writing workshop.

Book Week suggestions

Kylie Orr: Author

What book are you currently reading?

I am currently reading “Dark Mode” by Ashley Kalagian blunt. It’s a crime thriller with stalker murderer vibes, someone who wants to stay offline so they can’t be tracked, but they have to for business.

What is the first book you remember reading?

The Very Hungry Caterpillar. I remember the holes you could poke fingers in with the food throughout the book.

Where is your favourite place to read?

In winter I like to get cozy next to the fire, or in bed, and in summer there’s a back deck on my house with a nice view over the valley so I like to read there.

What book has had the most impact in your life?

I think it’s the book called We need to talk about Kevin by Lionel Shriver.

She’s actually a female author, and the topic matter was full on, but at the time I was a new mother and the book is about a school shooting in America. The mother is trying to talk to father about son Kevin (who is the shooter) and is worried about him before the incident, and I was impacted by the way the mother carried the guilt of how the child has turned out. Her writing is just incredible.

What is a book you think everyone should read?

Everybody should read mine so i can feed my kids! I’m joking.

The Alchemist maybe? Actually, The Book Thief, because it was an interesting perspective (perspective of death) such a unique position to take in a book. It was an important moment in time in history, like the development of the relationships within it, the story

surrounds a love of books and the banning of books back in the day.

What is your favourite book?

I can’t choose a favourite book, it’s like choosing a favourite child - you can’t! It’s hard to choose just one.

My favourite book of this year would be Salt and Skin by local author Eliza Henry-Jones. It’s her fifth book, beautifully lyrical and mystical, and is now launching in the UK. It’s about an Australian family that went to Scotland, not to give anything else away.

Tanya Faulkner - Reporter

What book are you currently reading?

I am currently reading the 8 Rules to Love by Jay Shetty. I’ve been obsessed with his podcast for the last few years and never miss an epi-

sode, and his last book Think Like a Monk absolutely changed the way I think about myself and how I interact with situations. What is the first book you remember reading?

With my parents, it’s definitely Winnie the Pooh, I loved Tigger, but on my own I think it was the Harry Potter Series when I was 10 or 11 years old. I love the way J.K Rowling wrote the books, and they still hold a special place in my heart.

Where is your favourite place to read?

So being from New Zealand, my favourite place of all time was at this lookout up the road from my parent’s house, or with a pile of blankets and cushions on the back tray of a ute, facing the beach. These days I like to get cozy in bed or on the couch at home.

What book has had the most impact in your life?

Umm... All of my books seem to go back to NZ authors - but I have two in mind. One was called Under the Mountain by Maurice Geeit’s NZ fiction from 1979 about creatures called the ’Wilberforces’ that lived under the mountains that make up Auckland, and this mission to destroy them before they destroyed our planet. There’s a couple of movies out as well, but I find the original film to be better than the re-make. Secondly is a book called The Impossible Knife of Memory by Laurie Halse-Anderson, and it’s just a really well written book about PTSD and how war can impact children in families as well as their parents. What is a book you think everyone should read?

Oooh... this one is hard... recently I’ve been really into my self-development and mindset books and podcasts, so off the top of my head I would say Atomic Habits by James Clear orThe Subtle Art to Not Giving a F**k. Both of them give you really good tools to learn more about the way you think, and helps you to take more control of how you interact and engage with people and situations for a less stressful life. What is your favourite book?

A book I always go back to at some point is a book called Restless Spirit (Te Wairua Whakariuka) by Susan Brocker. It’s a New Zealand book about our Kaimanawa horses, in particular this rare white one that no one seems to see much, but know he’s there. The book follows a few storylines, like a girl who moved from Auckland city down to this small country school and makes friends with a M?ori boy, and a farmer who rounds up and culls the horses for ’population control’ and is trying to catch the white horse - look it’s a book that needs to be read and enjoyed really.

Knox author Kylie Orr with her book, Someone Else’s Child. 353430 Picture: TANYA FAULKNER

Adventure, page by page

By Tanya Steele

Book Week is in full swing across the Yarra Valley and schools are celebrating with all things literary.

A few students from Heaslevile Primary caught up with Star Mail to chat about books ahead of the festivities.

Students joined us for a chat in the library to cover off on what the kids are reading at the moment.

Roni from grade three said she likes the Hotdog series by Anh Do and the Owly series by Andy Runton.

“They have really fun adventures,” she said.

Roni said she likes reading because the stories take her on little adventures and the characters always tend to get into a bit of trouble

Cooper said he doesn’t have a favourite at the moment but enjoys the Book Week celebrations and how much reading he gets to do during the event.

Penny from grade three is an avid reader said she liked “Seven Wherewithal Way” by Samantha Ellen-Bound - which is a book about magical realms, flying buses and portals.

Penny said she is also looking forward to dressing up and has floated the idea of Cleopatra with her parents.

“We practised a braid this morning, but Mum said that was too hard,” she said.

Roni said she and a mate have explored some options at the shops and Cooper has not settled on a costume idea yet.

Book Week has been celebrated across Australia since 1945 and the theme this year is “Read, Grow, Inspire”.

The Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) presents annual awards to Australian books of literary merit and for outstanding contributions to Australian children’s literature.

Schools will participate nationwide and celebrate reading and books from 19 August to 25 August.

Book week will be in full swing.

What the next generation of book-lovers has to say ....

Zoe, Grade 5

1. What’s your favourite book and why?

Miles Morales Shock Waves by Justin Reynolds/Pablo Leon– It’s a good fit for me, and I love graphic novels. The pictures help me visualise and get involved in the story.

2. Do you have an all-time favourite character?

Miles Morales

3. What’s the first book you ever remember reading?

Probably an ABC type book with lots of pictures as I was learning my alphabet

4. If you could write your own book, what would it be about?

Maybe a book of poems set to one mood. I’d try to make my reader connect to what emotions I want to make them feel. And maybe try to get a message across.

5. What do you enjoy about reading?

It sets my mind at ease and also, like music, you can match a book to your mood. There are so many different ones out there, there’s a book for anyone and any mood.

Jayden, Grade 4

1. What’s your favourite book and why?

Matilda - Roald Dahl. I like it because it’s interesting and keeps you thinking.

2. Do you have an all-time favourite character?

Piranha from Bad guys

3. What’s the first book you ever remember reading?

Peter Rabbit’s Happy Easter

4. If you could write your own book, what would it be about?

It would be about a life lesson, like the Barefoot Investor for Kids

5. What do you enjoy about reading?

It takes you into a magical world and it feels like you are inside the book with characters. I feel like I’m part of the story but they just haven’t said my name yet.

Piper, Grade 3

1. What’s your favourite book and why?

Wings of Fire. I love the adventure and not knowing what’s going to happen. It’s full of surprises.

2. Do you have an all-time favourite character?

Glory from Wings of Fire

3. What’s the first book you ever remember reading?

Polar Polar BearWhat can you Hear? Eric Carle

4. If you could write your own book, what would it be about?

It would be an adventure book with lots of excitement.

5. What do you enjoy about reading?

I love that every new story is a new adventure.

Conor, Grade 3

1. What’s your favourite book and why?

The Cat Wants Custard – It’s a book to just laugh at and enjoy. It’s funny!

2. Do you have an all-time favourite character?

Cat in the Hat

3. What’s the first book you ever remember reading?

Mr Smiles

4. If you could write your own book, what would it be about?

Sonic the Hedgehog

5. What do you enjoy about reading?

I love how you can imagine the story in your mind and I like getting pulled into the story.

Zoe (Grade 5) with her favourite graphic novel Miles Morales Shock Waves. 354424

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Jayden (Grade 4) with his favourite book Matilda by Roald Dahl. 354424

Piper (Grade 3) loves an adventure in a book, that’s why Wings of Fire is her favourite. 354424

Conor (Grade 3) loves The Cat Wants Custard. 354424

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Time to get snapping

By Gabriella Vukman

In order to protect the biodiversity of eastern Victoria, the Yarra Ranges Council is participating in the Bio Blitz competition.

Open to any Yarra Ranges, Casey and Baw Baw residents (see list below for other participating shires), the competition’s purpose is to document the local flora and fauna in order to gather data that can be used to protect our many species.

Climate and Nature team member Suzanne Burville identifies the opportunity for locals to take part in the research of their home.

“Ordinary people can go out and take photos of flora, fauna and fungi,” Ms Burville said.

The competition opens 1 September and will run until the end of the month.

Not only does this competition aim to record as many species as possible, it is also a way of uniting the community in celebration of the beauty, biodiversity and conservation of our local area.

During this Biodiversity Blitz competition, participants snap photos of any form of native biota, this includes insects, plants, legumes, fungi, animals and any living organism. These images are then uploaded by entrants to the iNaturalist app or website.

“Last year during our Bio Blitz month of September …6076 observations were added to the project.”

To get involved, download the iNaturalist app, create an account, join the Yarra Ranges Bio Blitz 2023 project and start snapping away.

The Bio Blitz competition started around four years ago with the City of Dandenong, who invited other shires to join in.

Verifying the photos that are sent in is a calculated process. Being an Artificial Intelligence platform, iNaturalist identifies the uploaded pictures automatically, using AI. The next step in the process is for the system-recognised species to be verified by human experts.

Once someone else has verified the species in the photo, the submission becomes “research grade” and then becomes accessible to scientists and researchers alike.

“The AI on it does an absolute amazing job. I’ve uploaded some pretty ordinary photos… of… birds that are obscured by leaves and … it pretty much gets it right,” Ms Burville said.

Exciting discoveries surface from community science projects such as this.

“Some species that have thought to be extinct in specific areas have been found through citizen science projects like this.”

“You might be up in the Yarra Ranges and you snap a little bug or something… it could be that that species was thought to be extinct in that area,” the Climate and Nature team member said.

Encouraging participation, Yarra Ranges Council conducts events such as nature walks to introduce people to the Biodiversity Blitz and encourage usage of the iNaturalist application. The Bird Walk and Talk on September 2 is a particularly popular affair.

Bio Blitz program species picture submissions.

Pictures: SUZANNE BURVILLE

“We’re…helping them contribute and that’s…the start of their journey.”

While encouraging participation in the form of uploads is vital, Ms Burville said “sometimes the photos won’t get verified”.

Seeing as the reviewing system is entirely voluntary through the platform, the more discrete species such as insects, bugs and fungi are harder and less likely to be verified. Another consideration about this particular type of project being run locally, is that for many intricate species there “is no one expert enough in the field,” Ms Burville said.

The good news is that any member of the community can be an expert and people can be invited to verify the posts of others.

“You get people that just love certain species…[that’s] their passion.”

Rendering research more accessible, is significantly changing the game in science.

Ms Burville said, “[locals are] actually gathering all this data that scientists could never possibly get.”

Yarra Ranges Biodiversity Blitz website: https://www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Experience/Events/Biodiversity-Blitz-2023

iNaturalist website: https://inaturalist.ala. org.au/projects/biodiversity-blitz-2023-melbourne

List of participating cities and shires;

· Baw Baw Shire Council

· Bayside City Council

· Cardinia Shire

· City of Casey

· City of Greater Dandenong

· City of Kingston

· City of Knox

· Frankston City Council

· Mornington Peninsula Shire

· Yarra Ranges

CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar 3 Meadowgate Drive

CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway

CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar 158 Nangathan Way

CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar 11 The Mall

KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Churinga SC, Russo Place

KILSYTH Kilsyth News & Lotto 520 - 528 Mt Dandenong Road

KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette87 Colchester Road

KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Canterbury Road Kilsyth

KILSYTH TSG Tobacco Churinga Shopping Centre Mt Dandenong Road

LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC 33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC 51-59 Anderson Street

LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale Village Castella Street & Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre 7 Hardy Street

LILYDALE Eastern Laundries. 2/4 Williams Street East

LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre 1 Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station 473 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale 346 Main Street

LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths 31 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE BP Service Station 87 Warburton Highway

LILYDALE Shell Service Station 469 Maroondah Highway

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

LILYDALE Coles Express 469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe 251 Main Street

LILYDALE Round Bird Can’t Fly 170 Main Street

LILYDALE The Lilydale General 110 Beresford Road

LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery 96 Main Street

LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe 178 Main Street

LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe 222 Main Street

LILYDALE Gracious Grace Castella Street

LILYDALE Melba Coffee House 33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies 7/75 Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE The Mustard Tree Cafe 3/28 John Street

LILYDALE Freda’s Cafe 2 Clarke Street

LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate 164 Main Street

LILYDALE Stockdale & Leggo Real Estate 281 Main Street

LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate 111-113 Main Street

LILYDALE Grubs Up 1 Industrial Park Drive

LILYDALE Olinda Creek Hotel Maroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Crown Hotel Maroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street

MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket 916 Mt Dandenong Road

MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road

MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street

MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent

MOUNT EVELYN Red Robin Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent

MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road

MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale 138 York Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket 15 Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar 38 Bellara Dive

MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart 108 Hayrick Lane

MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark 103 Cardigan Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Express 2 Cambridge Road

MOOROOLBARK Mooroolbark Coin Laundrette28 Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real Estate Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK L J Hooker Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road

Local radical

John Morrison (1904-1998), short story writer, novelist and essayist, resided for a time in Mt Evelyn and was part of our local tradition of radicalism.

Born in Sunderland in the north of England, John Gordon Morrison left school at 14 and worked for two years in a local museum, before serving a gardening apprenticeship. He came to Australia in 1923 as an assisted immigrant. He worked his way through country districts of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, including the Dandenongs. Returning to England in 1927 because of a brother’s illness, he found himself homesick for Australia, and worked his passage back as a ship’s steward in 1928. On the voyage he met his future wife, an Irish-born maid, Frances Rosina Jones.

Morrison had a varied working life as a farm labourer, station hand, wool presser, wharflabourer, process worker and jobbing gardener. He was fortunate to be in work throughout the Depression, but was inspired as a social realist writer by the hardships he witnessed. This social and political awakening also led him to join the Communist Party of Australia (CPA). Morrison’s friends included the writers and fellow communists Alan Marshall, Frank Hardy, Judah Waten and Dorothy Hewett, and artist Vic O’Connor, who had lived in Mt Evelyn as a boy.

Success came in 1945, when Morrison won the Fellowship of Australian Writers Short Story Competition. In 1947 he received a grant from the Australian Literary Fund, which enabled him to leave work to complete a novel,

Looking back

Karen Phillips

Mount Evelyn History Group editor

The Creeping City, published in 1949. The setting is‘Mabooda’, a fictionalised Monbulk of the 1920s, when the berry farms were being sold off for holiday homes and guest houses. His second novel, Port of Call, is set partly in the Dandenongs, and his story ‘All I Ask’ in an Olinda guesthouse.

In the early 1950s he moved to Silvan Road (Monbulk Road) Mt Evelyn. I could not find any stories with Mt Evelyn backgrounds, but his most famous story, ‘Dog Box’, is set on the Lilydale train.

Morrison left Mt Evelyn after his wife’s death in 1967. In 1969 he married Russian-born Rachela Anders (Amdurski) who, he claimed proudly, could read his translated works in five languages. Morrison had retired from work by this time. Without the inspiration provided by his job and daily commute, he wrote little in his final years. He died in 1998, aged 94.The Creeping City, serialised in the Free Press OctoberNovember 1947, also‘All I Ask’ and several other stories, are available online on Trove.

Remember the BlackBerry?

BlackBerry Starring Jay Baruchel, Glenn Howerton and Matt Johnson

Rated M 3.75/5

BlackBerry is a smart, funny historical drama about the rise and fall of BlackBerry, which was once the world’s leading smartphone brand.

As with Oppenheimer and Tetris, BlackBerry uses its very technical subject matter as a focal point to explore its engaging characters and their journeys.

Mike Lazaridis (Jay Baruchel), co-founder of RIM and creator of the BlackBerry, is a naïve, awkward engineering genius gradually ground down by his heavy business responsibilities, and Jim Balsillie (Glenn Howerton) is the aggressive marketing dynamo behind BlackBerry’s success.

Much of BlackBerry takes place in workshops and board meetings, and the BlackBerry is an obsolete, even obscure product nowadays, but the fast-paced plot has clever dialogue and relatable themes to latch onto. These include buzzing electronics, Chinese manufacturing, the importance of online data and the tectonic shift of the iPhone launch, and Blackberry depicts an all-too-common collision of innovation and greed.

BlackBerry has annoying shaky camera-

A mix of Hitchcock and a touch of Monty Python

The Basin theatre production ofThe 39 Steps

Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python and you have The 39 Steps – a fast paced whodunnit.

In The 39 Steps, a man with a boring life meets a woman with a thick accent who says she’s a spy. He takes her home, and she is murdered. Soon after, a mysterious organisation called The 39 Steps is hot on the man’s trail in a nationwide manhunt that climaxes in a death-defying finale.

Kemp’s curtain call

work, and Matt Johnson leaves little impression as Doug Fregin, Lazaridis’ best friend and the other co-founder of RIM. Fregin is both a supportive partner and a Napoleon Dynamite-style free-spirited distraction, but contributes little to the narrative. The following reading might betray my Apple bias, but if Lazaridis is BlackBerry’s Steve Wozniak and Balsillie is their Steve Jobs, Fregin feels like a third wheel in the plot. BlackBerry also loses focus in the final act, with some last-minute conflict involving Balsillie’s attempt to buy a hockey team.

A witty, energetic portrayal of one of the biggest successes and failures in modern tech, marred by an extraneous main character and a slightly sloppy third act, BlackBerry is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

The Basin Theatre gave its audience one of the most hilarious evenings seen for a long time. The sets were basic and interchangeable. Using chairs and tables which represented cars, trains and hotel rooms.

The cast were excellent and hilarious.We had the bored man Richard Hannay played by Michael Jewell and Michael was also codirector. As a performer, he was outstanding, playing one character always on the ruin with nobody believing his story. Jewell gave the funniest performance seen for an age. An excellent portrayal.

The only lady in the cast was BryonyWilson, who played various roles from that of the murdered spy with the thick accent to the wife of a Scottish hotel keeper, the local girl who did not believe Richard’s story which led to some hilarious scenes A superb performance and a wonderful change of accents depending on which character she was playing.

John Latham and Ozzy Breen-Carr are listed on the program as Clown one and two. Bothe were extremely good and their scenes were excellent. They played crooks, policemen, Latham as a housewife married to the villain. An excellent portrayal and hilariously funny.

Breen-Carr was respectively a policeman, a crook, Mr Memory .Audiences may not believe how hard it is for an actor to change characters during a play but the four actors in this play lived up to all expectations giving excellent and superb performances particular in changing characters. Mishel Jewell was lucky he played the same character throughout but as said earlier was the co-director. The Basin Theatre produced not only an excellent evening of theatre but an hilarious evening of fun fully appreciated by the opening night audience.

A reminder:

· The 1812 theatre – Of Mice and Men Season: October 5 – 28.

· The Basin Theatre – Belles Season: October 5 – 15.

Forthcoming crime thriller is a real page-turner

A review of Anna O by Matthew Blake

Anna O, written by British debut author Matthew Blake, is lauded as “the biggest new crime thriller novel for 2024 from an astonishing literary fiction voice”.

The book became a global sensation on submission in June 2022, with a recordbreaking 16 international offers within 48 hours. It ended up securing “three separate seven-figure deals in the US, the UK and Germany and another multiple seven-figure total from pre-empts and auctions in territories around the world”.

Anna O tells the story of a young woman who is accused of murdering her two best friends. Anna Ogilvy was found asleep, with a kitchen knife in her hand, her clothes bloodstained. There was even a text message containing her confession: “I’m sorry, I think I’ve killed them.” Trouble is, no one and nothing can wake her up.Those who believe in her innocence call her Anna O. Those who insist on

PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN

her guilt call her Sleeping Beauty.

Four years later, Dr Benedict Prince, a forensic psychologist specialised in sleep-related crimes, accepts the task of supervising Anna’s treatment at the Abbey Sleep Clinic in London. His professional duty is to awaken her and get her fit to stand trial. But his moral duty is to see her return to a healthy, normal life.

Such a premise, full of mysteries and possibilities, is every storyteller’s dream. A lifelong fan of Agatha Christie and mystery fiction, Blake does a brilliant job pacing the story and maintaining its sense of suspense and thrill until the very last page, dishing out subtle clues and plenty of literary Easter eggs along the way to tease readers.

In true Christie fashion, the story is told from the perspectives of multiple characters, with Ben and Anna (mostly via her notebook) being the major first-person protagonists. Experienced readers would be looking for unreliable narrators (and often thinking they have found them), but anyone trying to sneak a peek at the end chapters would be risking their own peril. Indeed, the fun of reading this story is to go through the twists and turns while deciphering the dizzying yet delicious details revealed through numerous journal article abstracts, webpage summaries, diary entries, interviews, and government, library

and media archives. Particularly fascinating are the medical, legal and psychological sides of the story.

The dark side of the human psyche is forever awe-inspiring. Anna O not only delves deep into this darkness, but it further invokes empathy in the same way that some readers have felt for Dr Hannibal Lecter. Meanwhile, Ben’s love for his family and his compassion for Anna makes him an identifiable character, and his methods for treating resignation syndrome is a shining beacon in the shadowy, snarling world made so realistic in the story.

Anna O will be available for readers in Australia on February 1, 2024.

Disclaimer: This assessment is based on an advanced review copy of the book supplied by its publisher HarperCollins via NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased evaluation (DRM PDF file output date June 28, 2023).

WRITING EXTENSION PROGRAM

Writing Extension Program Three Years Strong!

Birmingham Primary School has joined forces with Yarra Hills Secondary College and Lilydale High School to implement an exciting extension writing program for our year six students. This program has been running for three years and has been extremely successful in raising the standard of writing for our year sixes, and importantly raising their confidence and self esteem to see themselves as capable and competent writers. It operates once a week, and the wonderful secondary English teachers from both schools put their heart and soul into the work, giving up their time with their students to help ours. One week the children go to the secondary schools and the following week both English teachers come to Birmingham. It is inspirational to watch, and the standard of writing and the

children’s perception of themselves as writers has increased significantly. It is such a powerful program and an excellent transition model for our year sixes moving into secondary school the following year. We value this partnership, and plan to continue moving forward, and hopefully incorporate a similar mathematics program in the near future. A huge thank you to Darren Trippett

Principal of Yarra Hills Secondary College and Wendy Powson Principal of Lilydale High School, and to your wonderful English teachers. This partnership is strong because we are committed to the children in our care, and will go that extra mile to optimise every learning opportunity for them.

Trish Enzinger

Patricia Enzinger

ENTERTAINER’S DELIGHT

IDEALLY located in one of Gembrook’s most highly sought-after locations, discover this immaculate family home that is sure to tick all of the boxes.

Carefully crafted and constructed with meticulous attention to detail, there has been no stone left unturned.

The home is positioned on an elevated setting and affords views across the tree tops to distant mountains. You are guided inside the home from the welcoming decked verandah stepping inside discover the first living room, a spacious lounge and dining featuring a bar, beautiful high ceilings and a bay window.

Continuing the journey through the home you’ll find the second living area; with spectacular vaulted ceilings the room has a certain grandeur that is seldom come by. This area includes an additional lounge, an adjoining dining space, and a wellappointed kitchen equipped with stainless steel appliances, a dishwasher, breakfast bar, expansive counter space, and ample storage. With sliding door access to the extensive outdoor entertainment area, this kitchen becomes the perfect hub for hosting gatherings with friends and family.

For the growing family there are four bedrooms in total, the master suite is your own private sanctuary complete with a walkthrough wardrobe and a spacious ensuite bathroom. Additionally, a versatile dressing room presents various possibilities –whether it becomes a study, extra wardrobe space, or a private sitting area is entirely up to you.

Located in their own wing, the three secondary bedrooms all boast built-in robes and they are serviced by the family bathroom. All bedrooms have their own external access to the verandah and enjoy

HOME ESSENTIALS

garden vista views.

Noteworthy features include gas-ducted heating, 5 split-systems and high ceilings.

Under the house discover a bounty of storage including an oversized double garage, a third separate garage space with 4.5m access ideal for a motor home, boat or horse float and a separate enclosed storage space which could easily become a studio or alike if required.

To keep costs down there is a 6Kw solar system, 3 inch wall, ceiling and floor insulation and multiple water tanks (totaling 60,000L approx.) which have been

connected to all toilets.

Outside the embellishments continue, the enormous partially covered decked outdoor entertaining area can host even the largest of families. The solar heated above ground pool, framed by decking adds further luxury and truly creates the perfect place for summer lazing or gathering with family, friends, a cheese plate and a pinot.

For the green thumb, a secure side yard with raised vegetable gardens is ready for next season’s vegetables to be planted, and there is also a thriving lemon and lime tree. The balance of the half an acre allotment

has been carefully landscaped to create low maintenance gardens that feature mature shade trees, bright florals and expansive lawned areas for the kids to run and play.

If this wasn’t already enough sealed road and driveway access are sure to sweeten the deal.

Location doesn’t get much better than this with Gembrook Park Reserve located at the end of the road and a short stroll will take you to the thriving Gembrook township; schools, shops, renowned restaurants and public transport are all at your fingertips. Inspect with absolute confidence. ●

RETIREMENT LUXURY FOR LESS

SITUATED in a rural setting, this strata title property in Valley Village Mews retirement village has a large north-facing private courtyard with pergola.

Opposite its own huge park is a pathway for all and pets near community bus surrounded by tall shady trees and gardens, a staffed community centre with gardeners/ odd job men and nightly security guard

checks.

It has two-way spacious roads lined with homes, gardens and private backyards, plenty of parking for cars/vans/boats/ trailers. Communal garden, barbecue area and nearby nature bike/walking track suiting those who love the outdoors.

Next to Estia Health aged care home, Hospital and opposite Chisholm, walking

distance or bus to the market, essential services & city centre, this village is Dandenong’s best kept secret.

This two-bedroom Tudor is one of few in the village and fully renovated inside and out, with an extra multipurpose room off the internally accessed single garage. It has vaulted ceilings, spacious bedrooms with main walk-in robe, modern bathroom and

open plan lounge, kitchen, dining area. Solar panels, three split systems for cooling and heating plus ducted heating, fireplace and gas heater with insulating, noise reduction security shutters.

Very low maintenance, low monthly fees including building insurance making this a rare opportunity to purchase in this village with a high star rating! ●

RARE & BEAUTIFUL TUDOR HOME

$595,000 - $615,000 | 12 SQ. Luxurious Fully Renovated Tudor Home

This is a rare opportunity to be the new owner of this beautiful jewel in the crown situated at Valley Village Mews in Dandenong. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to own this renovated home in beautiful garden surrounds.

It’s a large and luxurious home with all the benefits of living the easy village lifestyle (12 squares/111sqm*). Boasting spacious bedrooms with a walk-in wardrobe and modern bathroom. The vaulted ceilings add light and air whilst the wainscoting panelling, hybrid flooring and fireplace all add a touch of sophistication and ambience. The modern kitchen and dining room is filled with natural light and looks on to the large north-facing rear yard. The garage is complimented with an adjoining multipurpose room for hobbies, yoga or just additional storage. Ducted heating and cooling with individual reverse cycle units means you will be comfortable year round in any room and security shutters add peace of mind.

With a location only 30 seconds from the parkland, it suits an active and picturesque lifestyle. One of only a handful of Tudor homes in the village, this one is undoubtedly the quaintest of them all. It will not last so inquire today because it will be gone tomorrow.

RARE FIND ON APPROXIMATELY 4000SQM

ESCAPE to serenity and embrace the idyllic country life that this property has to offer. This hidden gem is just a short drive from the town centre and minutes from the popular distilleries and wine bars. Situated opposite the RACV golf course, and nestled on nearly one acre of land, this property offers endless possibilities.

Step inside the charming Hardiplank home, well-maintained and presented. With verandahs at the front and rear, you can immerse yourself in the picturesque surroundings and enjoy the tranquillity of country living. The front verandah which looks towards the golf course and beyond is the perfect spot to unwind and relax at the start or end of your day.

Featuring three bedrooms - two with built-in robes, one with a large cupboard, a semi-ensuite bathroom, two toilets, and two separate living areas, this home provides ample space for comfortable living and entertaining. The split-level design and soaring ceilings add character and a sense of space. Your comfort year-round is ensured with the two reverse-cycle split systems and the wood heater.

External to the home you’ll find additional structures such as a 5.4 x 3.4m watertight shed with shelving, a small garden shed, and a chook pen. The land has seen various uses over the years, including a pony paddock, and now it’s your turn to unleash your creativity. Subject to council approval (STCA), you have the opportunity to build a large shed for car enthusiasts or tradespeople.

Imagine having enough space for a thriving vegetable garden, for keeping a couple of goats, or for any other endeavour you’ve been dreaming of – turning this property into your own little country retreat or hobby farm. Escape the urban hustle without compromising on convenience. This property offers the best of both worlds – the peace and quiet of the countryside, with easy access to all amenities nearby.

Don’t let this opportunity slip away! 19 Chum Creek Road is a rare find with so much potential and endless possibilities. Grab this chance to create the lifestyle you’ve always wanted. Act fast, as this special property won’t stay on the market for long! ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

MAKE YOUR NEXT MOVE WITH INTEGRITY

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

FANTASTIC EQUINE OPPORTUNITY

THIS four-bedroom, two-bathroom property with extensive and well thought out equine infrastructure offers the astute buyer an amazing opportunity!

Previously run as a successful thoroughbred spelling and breeding property, there are 10 post and rail paddocks with electric offsets, looseboxes and water troughs, as well as an additional two day yards.

At the rear of the property are two large spelling paddocks as well as a dam which pumps water up to a header tank for irrigating the cottage garden.

There are also mare and foal yards and an area previously utilised as a stallion paddock. The great set up continues with a covered horse area that contains a cold wash, four large stables, a horse crush, hay storage, and tack room/storage area.

Adjacent to the stable area is also a row of 10 individual chicken pens, ideal for the keen breeder. As well as a dog pen.

The home features comforts such as a wood fire, split system air conditioning, a corner spa bath, and private and scenic views of the property. This home also features a 6kW solar system and has a double carport with work-shop area. This property has it all so don’t miss out - call to arrange a private inspection today! Call Aaron Day 0407 365 994 or Brennan Mileto 0422 996 451.

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

13CoopersRoad,Macclesfield$1,300,000-$1,420,000

FantasticequineopportunityintheheartofMacclesfield!

This4bedroom,2bathroompropertywithextensive&wellthoughtoutequineinfrastructure,offers theastutebuyeranamazingopportunity!Thereare10post&railpaddockswithelectricoffsets, looseboxes&watertroughs,aswellasanadditional2dayyards.Attherearofthepropertyare2 largespellingpaddocksaswellasadam.Therearealsomare&foalyards&anareapreviously utilisedasastallionpaddock.Thegreatsetupcontinueswithacoveredhorseareathatcontains acoldwash,4largestables,ahorsecrush,haystorage,&tackroom/storagearea.Adjacentto thestableareaisalsoarowof10individualchickenpens,idealforthekeenbreeder.Aswellasa dogpen.Thehomefeaturescomfortssuchasawoodfire,splitsystemAC,&acornerspabath.This homehasa6kWsolarsystem&adoublecarportwithwork-shoparea.

18VistaCourt,Gembrook$735,000-$800,000

Perfecthomeforwalktotownconvenienceandlowmaintenanceliving! Thisgorgeous3bedroom,2bathroomhomeismoveinready.Withabitumendriveway&DLUGwith entrydoortothehome,thefrontyardislandscaped&lowmaintenance.Themasterbedroomhasa ceilingfan,&WIRaswellasanensuite.ThefurthertwobedroomsbothhaveBIRs.Thekitchenisfully equippedwithalargeislandbench,electricoven,gasstovetop,&stainless-steeldishwasher.Being openplanwiththeloungeroomforseamlessentertaining,&therearetwoslidingdoorsfromthe loungeouttotherearentertainingareaordirectlytothebackyard.Relax&unwindinthelounge roomasyouenjoythewoodfireplace,orusethesplitsystemairconditionerorductedgasheating that’spresentthroughoutthehome.Thereisalsoastudyforyourworkfromhomeconvenience.This propertyisashortstrolltoalltheamenitiesofGembrookmainstreet.

Beautifullyrenovatedhomewithgorgeoustreedoutlook,andsocloseto town!

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

ThisIsTheOne-YourFullyRenovatedFamilyHome,FirstHomeorInvestment OpportunityAwaits!

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

AaronDay M 0407365994

BrennanMileto M 0422996451

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

SamanthaScott M 0438680032

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

AaronDay M 0407365994

BrennanMileto M 0422996451

COUNTRY CHARM, MODERN CONVENIENCE

PERFECTLY located in one of Emerald’s most highly sought-after locations is this magnificent Glen Thompson brick home that has been lovingly constructed by the current owners.

As you enter the property via the sealed driveway, you are presented with the stunning home sitting proudly on a manicured and landscaped half an acre allotment. The home is perfect for those who appreciate quality and style.

Boasting a flexible floorplan ideal for growing families, downsizers or investors, the open plan kitchen and meals area acts as the heart of the home featuring gas cooktop, wall oven, dishwasher and a bounty of cupboard and bench space. Entertaining friends and family is a breeze. The adjoining cosy lounge with open fireplace provides an ideal place to sit back and relax on those cooler evenings. Kitchen and lounge area enjoys peaceful garden vista views and is flooded with natural light from large windows. There are three large bedrooms in total, the master features a spacious walk-in robe and full ensuite. Bedroom two (currently configured as a sitting room/ office) and bedroom three (with built in robe) are separately zoned and are serviced by the spacious family bathroom.

Special features include gas ducted heating, evaporative cooling, large laundry, polished Tasmanian Oak flooring, ornate cornices, 9ft ceilings and quality fixtures and

fittings throughout. Also, under roofline the oversized double garage with internal access could easily be converted into an extra living and/or bedrooms if required (subject to council approval).

Outside, the front deck offers complete privacy whilst you enjoy relaxing views across the manicured front garden. The balance of the property has been carefully landscaped and terraced to take full advantage of the half acre allotment. A spacious paved outdoor entertaining area is nestled amongst terraced gardens that feature vibrant florals and mature plantings that are ever changing throughout the seasons. For the children there are expansive lawned areas to run and play as well as a swing! At the rear of the property, there is a spacious wood shed with water and power connected. In addition to the double garage, there is a double carport. Located in a picturesque parklike setting with an abundance of stunning walking trail opportunities at your door step, including Lakeside Drive itself as it is a secret spot for photographers, all while only a stones throw to the thriving Emerald township.

Indulge in the tranquil embrace of lush surroundings while enjoying easy access to contemporary comforts just moments from your doorstep. Offering everything you could ask for this one should be at the top of your list, inspect with absolute confidence! ●

105WarwickRoad, Gembrook

Yourveryown4acreOasis!

FORSALE.

GUIDE $650,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT DaveReilly 0437347665

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

COUNTRYCHARMWITHMODERNCONVENIENCE

FORSALE. GUIDE $985,000-$1,080,000

0488501218 BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

READYTOENJOYINEMERALD’SBESTLOCATION!

FORSALE.

$790,000-$860,000

0408535075

59684522

7GembrookParkRoad, Gembrook

ENTERTAINERSDELIGHTINAPARKLIKESETTING

FORSALE.

GUIDE $1,220,000-$1,300,000

ByAppointment

JustinBarrot 0438683781 BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

39LisheenRoad, Cockatoo

THEPERFECTRETREATORBUSINESSOPPORTUNITY

3 A T 2 B T

FORSALE.

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

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT RileyNicholas 0488501218

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

243MtEireneRoad,

21ACRELIFESTYLEPROPERTYWITHBAYVIEWS

FORSALE.

GUIDE $1,750,000-$1,850,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

Experiencetranquillivingonalmost1/2acre

11EdmundsRoad, Cockatoo 3 A

FORSALE.

GUIDE $720,000-$780,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT DaveReilly 0437347665

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

29KitchenerParade, Cockatoo

COUNTRYSIDECHARMERON966M2

3 A T 2 B T 2 C

FORSALE.

GUIDE $750,000-$795,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT

JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

TIMETOBUILDTHEHOMEOFYOURDREAMS

20HaylockAvenue, Cockatoo 1011.71m2

FORSALE.

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

CONTACT LanaMaher 0408535075

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

OVER 10 ACRES OF YARRA VALLEY BLISS

NESTLED at the end of a tree-lined driveway stands a beautifully established barn-style home that offers potential buyers an inviting family-oriented living environment.

Situated on a beautiful 10 acres of land, boasting 4 bedrooms, a home office, and an impressive 5 living spaces, the choices are entirely yours to make. An array of features that capture attention include grand beams, distinctive wooden doors, an exterior crafted from mud brick and character timber cladding.

An entertaining bar and pool room area showcases a servery window equipped with an electric shutter door, complemented by a draft beer system and sink. This space effortlessly flows out to a deck area housing a pizza oven, a built-in BBQ, a dining table, and comfortable lounge seating - just paradise!

The impeccable kitchen offers a substantial stove catering to aspiring chefs, plenty of cupboard storage ensures organisational ease, and a breakfast island enhances the already generous counter space.

There is so much in this property to be desired, an inviting open fire with a stone fireplace gracing the formal lounge, a separate wood heater in the living room, and ducted heating and cooling throughout the entire residence.

Externally, this acreage property boasts excellent infrastructure, a 4-car carport attached to the main house and two sizable sheds boasting concrete floors and ample clearance, ideal for accommodating vehicles, equipment, and recreational toys.

Completing the property are 4 fenced paddocks, suitable for hobby farming and horses if your heart desires. Located only minutes walk to the highway giving easy access to public transport, school bus route, shops and local primary school, kinder and creche. This remarkable property offers features that are too numerous to detail here - seeing in person is the only way to truly appreciate its appeal. Don’t miss out on this Yarra Valley lifestyle opportunity! ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

Over10acresofYarraValleyblisswithenormouscharacterfilledhome

Situatedonabeautiful10acresofland,boasting4bedrooms,ahomeoffice,andanimpressive5 livingspaces,thechoicesareentirelyyourstomake.Anarrayoffeaturesthatcaptureattention includegrandbeams,distinctivewoodendoors,anexteriorcraftedfrommudbrickandcharacter timbercladding.Theimpeccablekitchenoffersasubstantialstove,plentyofcupboardstorage,and abreakfastislandenhancesthealreadygenerouscounterspace.Aninvitingopenfirewithastone fireplacegracingtheformallounge,withaseparatewoodheaterinthelivingroom.Externally,this acreagepropertyboastsexcellentinfrastructure,a4-carcarportattachedtothemainhouseand twosizableshedsboastingconcretefloorsandampleclearance,idealforaccommodatingvehicles andequipment.Don’tmissoutonthisYarraValleylifestyleopportunity!

Freshandbrightinahandylocation

Ideallylocatedwithlocalschools,shopsandtransportnearby,thisimpeccablyneathomeissuperbly presentedinsideandout.Offering2bedrooms,withalargeopenfamily/livingarea,agenerously sizekitchen/mealsareaandwithlovelyfreshcarpetandpaintthroughoutthehome,thereissimply nothingtodobutmoveinandenjoy.Outsideoffersaqualitypavedarea,gardenshedandcarport, providingamplespaceforoutdoorendeavors.Additionally,theaddedbonusofsolarpoweris anotherassetofthisproperty.Situatedattheendofthecourt,andsetinpicturesquesemirural surroundings,thispropertyistheperfectplacetoliveandenjoytherelaxedlifestyle.

4TheCrescent,Wesburn$590,000-$640,000

LifestylePropertyofover5acresabuttingtheRailTrailandLittleYarraRiver!

AhavenofsmallacreagenestledwithinthegorgeousYarraValley,thisinviting4bedroom homesteadoffersgreatinfrastructureinanidyllicsettingthatfeaturestheadjoiningRailTrailand tranquilLittleYarraRiver.Thehomesteadboastsfourgenerouslyappointedbedrooms,withthe mastersuitefeaturinganelegantensuite.Asupersizedkitchen,whereabundantbenchspace andstoragecomplementthemagnificentFalconcooker.Thekitchentransitionsintothelivingand mealsarea,wherethewarmthofawoodheaterworksinharmonywiththeconvenienceofasplit system.Ashowpiecesandstoneopenfireplaceaddsatouchoftimelessallure.Woodshedsand anexpansivebarnoffersversatilityandspaceforstorage.AprivategateopensontotheRailTrail, beckoningyoutoleisurelywalk.Thisproperty,boastsunrivalledlocationandpotential,enquirenow!

LeahBannerman M 0448924266

Inspection: Sat11.30-12.00pm

Warm,WelcomingandIdeallyLocated

Awarmandwelcomingpropertyinaconvenientandsoughtafterlocation,anidyllicandattractive positionsetamongstasemiruralsettingandjustminutesstrolltothelocalprimaryschool,public transport,walkingtrailandtheeverpopularfoodieoutletsinthemainstreet.Aflexibleandfunctional floorplanoffersgreatspaceforthewholefamilywith3bedroomsandanopenplankitchenwith plentyofbenchandcupboardspace,aseparatemealsareaandlightfilledlounge/livingareas withfulllengthwindowsistheidealplacetositbackrelaxandenjoytherusticoutlook.Hoursof funoutsideforthekidsandpetstoexploreandenjoysituatedonapprox.940sqmwithamixtureof treesandshrubs,easyaccessforcarsandtrailersplusaseparatecarportcompletethisattractive propertyandwithservicesclosebyit’sagreatplacetocallhome.

DavidCarroll M 0419539320

Inspection:

EASY LIVING IN EDINA!

PERFECTLY positioned, only a stone’s throw from Wattle View Primary School, Tim Neville Arboretum and within an easy drive to many local shopping precincts including Knox City, this beautifully maintained three-bedroom home provides you with easy living at its finest!

Only eight years old and spanning over two levels, the home provides spacious, open plan living and is filled with natural sunlight.

The well designed floorplan features a blend of timber floor boards and quality carpets throughout with the master bedroom and ensuite plus walk-in robe on the lower level, whilst the remaining bedrooms and

HOME ESSENTIALS

main bathroom are privately positioned on the top level.

Modern conveniences such as gas ducted heating and evaporative cooling have been added for easy temperature control whilst in the kitchen, a large island bench and stainless steel appliances make for a seamless finish.

Outside, the wide timber decking overlooks a low maintenance garden and caters for indoor/outdoor entertaining, allowing you to move in and simply enjoy.

With a double remote entry garage and in a quiet position being on the rear block, this home is ideal for families, downsizers or investors alike. ●

Address: 64B Edina Road, FERNTREE GULLY Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage

Contact: Rachel Eastwood 0401 117 761 or Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442, CHANDLER & CO

WELCOME TO SYLVAN GLADES

For loan licence agreement - not for individual sale SYLVAN Glades Retirement Village offers affordable, independent living for retirees over 55s.

Located in the highly sought after Dandenong Ranges, this private and peaceful village offers an affordable downsized lifestyle living. Our solid brick, bright and spacious units are available in both one and two bedrooms and offer flexible layouts with modern extras to make life even easier.

The units offer privacy with their own carports, private courtyards and beautiful landscaped gardens with walking paths.

Just a 5 minute drive to Main Road, Monbulk where you will find many cafes, Woolworths, Aldi and specialty shops you will love! or a short drive to Mt Evelyn and Lilydale.

All available units have been recently refurbished, with some offering brand new fully updated kitchens and bathrooms, appliances, floor coverings and fresh paintwork.

The landscaped gardens are all centred around the community hall which offers a fully equipped kitchen for social group use, activities/games area, library, relaxing lounge area, dancefloor and an outdoor BBQ facilities area.

Live the good life! Choose Sylvan Glades Retirement Village.

2 BED UNITS - $300,000

1 BED UNIT - $216,500

Contact Glenn Chandler 0418 410 689 or Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442 for your tour and inspection today!

* Please note this accommodation is available for Loan License Agreement only, for all enquiries and inspections please contact Chandler & Co. Real Estate.

** Units will vary, photos & floor plan for illustration purposes only. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

Address: 18/15 Anderson Road, MONBULK

Contact: Sharyn Chandler 0439

or

FORSALE

FORSALE

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

LARGEFAMILYHOMEWITHPOOLANDHILLSIDEVIEWS 4 A 3 B 2 C

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

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

DanielSteen

M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

1JamesStreet,SELBY $690,000to$750,000 WHIMSICALHOMEINWONDERFULPOCKETPOSITION 3 A 1 B 2 C

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

SuzieBrannelly

M 0490506910| E suzie@chandlerandco.com.au

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

SharynChandler

M 0439882442| E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

GlennChandler

M 0418410689| E glenn@chandlerandco.com.au

property.Featuringaclassichome,acovetedlevelblock,andaconvenientlocation only250mfromshopping,cafes,schools,andtransport,thispropertyisthetrifectaof investments.

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.

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Matthews Funerals 24 HOUR SERVICE - ALLAREAS 9739 6868 45 Cave Hill Rd, Lilydale www.williammatthewsfunerals.com.au 12567382-JW37-22

13 26 MQ 26 MAIL | Tuesday, 22 August, 2023 mailcommunity.com.au

William

Ekiden relay tests runners

By Jamie Strudley

Yarra Ranges Athletics senior team travelled to St Anne’s Winery in Myrniong on Saturday for round eight of XCR23. Warm, windy but dry conditions greeted the team as they prepared for the challenging courses around the St Anne’s farmland. Many of the “legs” had some steep, rocky ups and downs providing an additional challenge to athletes. Standout performances came from our Div 2 Women’s team (third), Women’s U20 (second) and the Women’s Div 4 team finishing first. Our open men’s team found the competition very tough finishing a close sixth, only a few seconds from fourth. Results are:

WOMEN

Div 2 25.3km Ekiden: 3rd – 1.52.07

· OliviaTwining: 31:36 (7.7km), Georgia Laven:

32:43 (6.9km), Grace Muller: 29:04 (6km), Brigitte Rice: 18:44 (4.7km)

Div 4 19.3km Ekiden: 1st 1.39.49

· Bonnie Morris: 39:55 (7.7km), Elisabeth Coffey: 37:07 (6.9km), Brienna Coffey: 22:47 (4.7km)

Women Under 20 17.6km Ekiden: 2nd

1.21.24

· Rori Jones: 34:58 (6.9km), Zoe Clarke: 27:27 (6km), Madeline Laven: 18:59 (4.7km)

MEN

Div 2 39.7km Ekiden: 6th 2.34.11

· James Laven: 3 0:29 (8.4km), Harry Norman:

26:36 (7.7km), Max Savill-Bentley: 24:50 (6.9km), Chris Grundy: 27:25 (6km), Mat-

thew Morrison: 25:09 (6km), Jared Byrne:

19:42 (4.7km)

Div 6 25.3km Ekiden: 6th 1.55.55

· Graham Coutts: 36:25 (7.7km), Jared Byrne: 33:00 (6.9km), Logan Dutton: 27:33 (6km), Liam Russell: 18:57 (4.7km)

Div 7 24.4km Ekiden: 6th 2.12.56

· Bryan Ackerly: 39:45 (7.7km), Craig Hewitson: 40:40 (6.9km), Jamie Strudley: 32:11 (6km), Bryan Ackerly 20.20 (3.8km)

Good luck to our three club members representing Victoria at the Australian Open and All Schools Cross Country Championship in Canberra this coming Weekend. Watch the socials for the results from Maddie Laven (Wom-

en U20), Brigette Rice (Women U17) and Bradley McMeeken Men U17 Para. Club members, Mitch Pointon and Zoe Adinsall, represented Australia over the weekend at the World Laser Run Championships in Bath, England. Mitch had an exceptional race in his U15 event, finishing in eighth place, running over two seconds faster than his previous best. Zoe, in theWomen U17 event, finished in an amazing 12th place.

Our Saturday morning cross country was

Croydon Ranges juniors travel east to Pakenham

The Croydon Ranges Hockey Club juniors travelled east last week to take on the Cardinia Storm at home in what was an historic event for the host club.

Having never hosted its two junior teams at home before, the Storm were out to prove themselves but the Ranges were too strong for the under 12 side.

The juniors play on a half-pitch to improve their skills and understanding of the

game’s structure before advancing to a full pitch.

A Croydon Hockey Club was first established in 1954, with the closest club at the time in Camberwell.

Despite seeing changes over the many decades, Croydon Ranges has been a strong competitor across the outer eastern competition.

run around a waterlogged Margaret Lewis Reserve, Coldstream. There was so much water that some last minute course changes were necessary. Our athletes enjoyed the change and responded with some excellent racing.

Next Saturday we return to Elizabeth Bridge in Kilsyth. Warm ups start at 8.45am.

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

letics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability.

If you, or someone you know, wants to join in the fun of cross country email info@yarrarangesathletics.org.au for information about events and registration.

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

There were some tight contests for Ranges. 353275 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Croydon Ranges Hockey Club’s juniors travelled to Pakenham. 353275

Ranges under 12s came away with a win. 353275

Juniors play on half a pitch to improve their skills. 353275

Mitch Pointon finished eighth in the World Laser Run Championships in Bath, England. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Graham Coutts showing good form.

Craig Hewitson making most of the downhill.

SPORT

Doncaster downs Barkers

By Peter Stephenson

A cold dull day and a heavy, greasy pitch greeted Barkers (fifth) as they hosted Doncaster Rovers (eighth) in an end-of-season dead rubber.

Except that these two sides have been playing each other for 56 years, they’ve averaged over four goals a game and there’s never a dull moment. Would this be any different? Read on….

The first surprise came before a ball was kicked, when keeper Mark Naumowicz injured himself in the warm-up, meaning Charlie Beresford would play his first senior game for four years.

Luckily, he got a couple of early touches as Rovers exerted some pressure in the first two minutes. Then John-Paul Cooper won a tackle and squared the ball to Ray Markley who scored his first Barkers goal, but was ruled offside.

On the quarter hour, Rovers had a free-kick, and James Newman hit a low shot which was well held by Beresford. Barkers replied with Maxim Solovyev and Paul McEvoy linking to send Cooper down the left wing, and his firsttime ball to the far post only just eluded Markley. In reply, ex-Barker Dushaan Atanasovski squared for George Voliotis, who passed the ball out to the left wing. A nice cross found Michael Papanicolaou, whose shot was blocked.

After a frantic opening where Rovers had the better of play, they got their reward on 22 minutes. A Barkers defender pushed Rei Kojima in the box to concede a needless penalty, which was dispatched to Beresford’s right by Papanicolaou to give Rovers a 1-0 lead. Then a four-man move from Rovers saw Atanasovksi turn and shoot over. Barkers came back with Solovyev finding Markley, whose cross found Cooper, but he slipped as he shaped to shoot.

On 28 minutes, Rovers’ Gus Clark found Atanasovski unmarked, and his shot brought a great one-handed save from Beresford, Back came Barkers, and on their next attack the ball fell nicely for Markley, whose low shot was held by keeper Andre Markov.

Rovers continued to pose problems for Barkers, and sure enough, on 32 minutes they won another penalty for a trip. Papanicolaou again put the ball to Beresford’s right to make it 2-0 to Rovers.

Finally, Barkers were stung into decisive action and three minutes later, Steve Nittoli was

strong in the tackle and freed Solovyev, who ran clear and hit a low shot home to make it 2-1 Rovers. Then in the next attack, Sean Perrin was flattened by Markov and the ref pointed to the spot. Scott made no mistake and it was 2-2 at half-time, with Barkers having the momentum at last.

Rovers began the second half on top and kept Beresford very busy with four saves in the first six minutes. In between all this, Ryan Smith cleared the ball and found Markley, whose volley was collected comfortably by Markov. Then Rovers had the ball in the net but were given offside.

After surviving a siege, on the hour Brett Tronconi cleared up at the back and chipped forward for McEvoy. He sent Scott down the right, who crossed for Sam Klepac, who hit a first-time shot over. Rovers came back and forced Beresford to save well at his near post. Then Klepac hit a lovely ball out to Markley on the left, but his cross was cleared.

Rovers, after their pressure earlier in the half, were probably due another goal. With 17 minutes left, a corner from the left saw the ball run loose, and Voliotis seized on it and scored to make it 3-2 Rovers. Four minutes later, Koji-

ma, who had been tormenting Barkers all day, waltzed through the defence to make it 4-2.

To Barkers’ credit, they never surrendered. They went straight back upfield and won a corner on the left. Perrin delivered it into the middle and Dan Higgins headed home to make it 4-3 Rovers. Four minutes into stoppage time, Scott had only the keeper to beat but overstretched on his shot and Markov collected. Finally, Rovers exploited the huge gaps left by Barkers, and Kojima raced clear to supply Phillip Papadopoulos with a tap-in with the last kick of the game. Full-time: Mooroolbark 3-5 Doncaster Rovers.

Rovers deserved the win, with Kojima posing too many hard questions. Rovers were more intense, and dominated the midfield for long periods.

Finally, a word about Beresford. Having not played a senior game since 2019, he was called up with no notice. He definitely did not deserve to cop five goals and made countless saves to spare Barkers further embarrassment.

Earlier, the reserves game was forfeited by Doncaster. Men’s over 35s lost 4-6 at Lilydale Montrose united, while the women and most junior sides had the weekend off for a catchup

round. Girls’ under 15 won 3-2 at Old Scotch, while girls’ under 13 won on forfeit over South Melbourne.

Next week, the men’s final game is at Berwick City (Jack Thomas Reserve, Saturday 1pm/3pm) while the women continue their quest for promotion at Chisholm United (Jack Edwards Reserve, Sunday 4pm). See you down the Kennel!

A 20-year history of female soccer in Mooroolbark

By Peter Stephenson

This month, Mooroolbark Soccer Club celebrated 20 years of senior women’s soccer at Esther Park, but how did it all begin?

Mooroolbark’s senior women’s team, known as the Barkerettes, was established in 2003.

A group of soccer-loving school friends wanted to play in a proper team, but they needed a coach. So, they approached Mark Bunce, an experienced player. Having never played competitive football against other teams, Mooroolbark was admitted to Victoria’s State League 4SE. The Barkerettes were on their way!

In fact, Bunce steered the fledgling Barkerettes from State 4 to State 1 in just four seasons.

However, lack of playing numbers meant they were unable to field the reserve team required by State 1, so the promotion they earned was not taken up.

The next few years were spent as a solid State 2 side, and in 2011, with the introduction of floodlights at Esther Park, the women’s games, previously played on Sunday afternoons, were moved to Friday nights.

This allows the Barkerettes to have their own dedicated spot in the weekend program and gives a theatrical quality to the games that is lacking at many other women’s clubs.

In 2012, Andrew Mashoian was appointed coach.

Mash led the team to the most successful season in the club’s history.

They were the first Barker side, male or

female, to go unbeaten away from home and won 16 of 18 games. So of course they finished second (amazingly beaten to the title on goal difference), but were promoted to State 1 – this time the promotion was accepted.

A tough season in State 1 in 2013 saw Barkerettes go straight back down, but in 2016, another stellar season saw the side win the State 2SE championship.

A talented side finished fifth in State 1SE in 2017, the club’s highest-ever league position.

In 2023, the Barkerettes are challenging for a promotion play-off spot in State 3S. They are three wins away from securing a spot in State 2.

Last week was a celebration of this journey, and a chance to reconnect with old friends.

These pioneers of women’s soccer could surely not have foreseen the growth of the game not only among women and girls in general, but in Mooroolbark in particular.

Not only that, but some of those foundation Barkerettes are still at the club helping

out in various capacities – once a Barkerette always a Barkerette!

Today at the Kennel, the Barkers field no fewer than seven female teams, from senior women down to under seven girls.

This is far above the average for similar clubs in the eastern suburbs, and with the expected stimulus to the game provided by the Women’s World Cup, the club and the game can only grow. So if you are or know a woman or girl who is looking for a friendly, progressive female soccer club - see you down the Kennel!

TheBarkershadadisappointinglossagainst Doncaster.

GeordieScottwasonceagaininstrumentalingettingMooroolbarkSoccerClubonthescoreboard.

Pictures:MIKAYLAVANLOON

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