Mail - Mountain Views Star Mail - 29th August 2023

Hitting the bullseye

Seville East’s Andy Robinson, 82, has been inducted into Australia’s darts Hall of Fame after competing for over a decade in the sport in the ’70s and ’80s.

The British-born local developed a talent for the game when he was younger at the pubs and playing houses in the UK but rose higher when he competed for Australia after moving here in the ’60s.

Now 40 years later, Andy has been recognised for his contribution to the sport and legacy he left at a time when darts wasn’t as well known as a competitive institution.

To read more, turn to page 10

Killara Road pain

Renewed calls have been made by the Coldstream community to upgrade the Maroondah Highway and Killara Road intersection with the Federal government’s 90 day-review process coming to an end shortly.

The $20 million project proposed by the Liberal Federal government in 2019, when the funds were allocated to the State government, hasn’t yet commenced, with the road still at a standstill when it comes to plans.

Killara Road was included in the $120 bil-

lion infrastructure investment program review initiated the Labor Federal government to assess some of the country’s most funded projects by the Liberals.

Meeting with local residents on Thursday 24 August, Casey MP Aaron Violi said he is concerned the entire project will be discarded, leaving the community at a loss and in danger.

With an increase in tourist traffic, housing developments and the location of the CFA brigade, the intersection see thousands of com-

muters each day using the arterial road.

Coldstream CFA captain Sean Bethal has been one of the people campaigning for upgrades since the beginning, noting how unsafe it can be when responding to a call out.

“Most of the time when we respond, lights and sirens are on, but tourists and locals that drive through here don’t always see or hear them,” Cpt Bethel told Star Mail in September last year.

“We’re having to take measures to try and

get out onto the highway, and at times it is becoming borderline impossible.

“People also cross over at the bus stop and you’re sitting there waiting for ages for a gap to come through or running the gauntlet in trying to get across.”

A year later and no progress has been made, with the State government waiting for the review process to end.

To read the full story, go to page 5

Andy Robinson has been inducted into the Darts Australia Hall of Fame.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

Stellar result for Victoria

Students in the across Victoria have topped the nation in this year’s NAPLAN results – recording ongoing improvement at both primary and secondary levels as our students thrive at school.

Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins said that these phenomenal results are more than statistics – they are a tribute to the extraordinary work and efforts of Victorian kids, teachers, principals, parents and carers.

“We are so proud to see such positive results, particularly among our primary years, and it is a clear indicator that we are delivering nation-leading education to a generation of Victorian students in the Education State,” she said.

Victoria is ranked first or second in 16 of the 20 NAPLAN 2023 domains – one of the state’s best-ever results, and higher than any other state or territory in the nation.

Our young students at primary school levels lead the state’s stellar results, ranking first or second in every domain in Years 3 and 5.

The early years of school are critical for establishing a strong foundation for learning –and with more than 70 per cent of Year 3 and 80 per cent of Year 5 students in the ‘strong’ or ‘exceeding proficiency’ levels for reading, Victorian students are setting themselves up for success.

Victoria also topped the nation in Year 3 reading and numeracy and retained first place

in Years 5, 7 and 9 writing.

In addition to high-achieving students, these results are proof that Victorian schools are identifying and supporting students who need extra assistance throughout their schooling, with the lowest or second-lowest propor-

tion of students needing additional support in all 20 domains.

There is always more work to do right across Australia, and the NAPLAN results point to the need to keep lifting numeracy results, as well as continuing our work to close

the achievement gap between advantaged and disadvantaged students.

The Government’s support systems for disadvantaged students are producing results – compared to other states and territories, Victorian kids facing disadvantage have achieved higher results in all of the primary school NAPLAN domains.

This year was the first time NAPLAN has been sat with changes agreed by all Australian education ministers to make reporting easier for schools and parents to understand, and ensure teachers have more time to implement any support NAPLAN identifies that students might need.

The tests are now sat in March rather than May, so results – and extra assistance for students – can be delivered earlier in the year.

“Since individual results were released a month ago, schools have been working on targeted learning support for those students who need additional support – and on extending the talents and skills of our highest achievers,” Ms Hutchins said.

NAPLAN is now also sat online to allow for more nuanced testing than paper tests, and the results structure has changed to represent student achievement against a reasonable expectation of their year level.

Individual school results will follow later in the year.

One in 10 students need more support, data shows

Around 10 per cent of students across Australia need additional support in literacy and numeracy to meet higher NAPLAN expectations, according to the latest data released today by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) in the new-look 2023 NAPLAN national results.

The latest figures also show that approximately 65 per cent of students across Australia are meeting the higher literacy and numeracy expectations, achieving in the ‘Strong’ and ‘Exceeding’ proficiency levels, while around 23 per cent of students are in the ‘Developing’ level and working towards meeting expectations.

Participation rates nationally have bounced back in 2023, increasing on average by two percentage points across all years and domains, compared to 2022, from 91.4 per cent to 93.3 per cent.

This was “a very good sign” ACARA CEO David de Carvalho said, reversing a downward trend apparent in recent years and exacerbated by the impact of the Covid pandemic.

“This year’s NAPLAN results are the first to reflect the new reporting changes. They show strong performance among Australian students in literacy and numeracy skills, but also provide clear information on areas requiring improvement,” Mr de Carvalho said.

Under the new approach, students are assessed against four levels of proficiency based on previous years of schooling: Exceeding, Strong, Developing and Needs additional support. The new reporting system more clearly and simply shows NAPLAN achievement, identifying where expectations are being met.

“Importantly, with expectations set at a higher level than in previous years, the new reporting is showing those areas where we need to focus our efforts on supporting more students to meet expectations and succeed,” Mr de Carvalho said.

“The results also continue to highlight the educational disparities of students from non-urban areas, Indigenous Australian heritage and those with low socio-educational backgrounds.”

Key highlights from this year’s NAPLAN national results include:

· Across year level groups on average, 65 per cent of students in Year 3, 68 per cent in Year 5, 67 per cent in Year 7 and 62 per cent in Year 9 met the higher expectations (were in the ‘Exceeding’ and ‘Strong’ levels) for literacy and numeracy.

· In numeracy, on average, the proportion of students who achieved at ‘Exceeding’ and ‘Strong’ levels in 2023 increases fromYear 3 (64.7 per cent) to Year 5 (67.7 per cent) and Year 7 (67.2 per cent) and then drops inYear 9 (63.9 per cent), apart from Western Australia (69.4 per cent).

· In writing, primary students were more likely to achieve at ‘Exceeding’ or ‘Strong’ levels than secondary students, with 76.0 per cent of Year 3 students and 66.2 per cent of Year 5 students meeting expectations compared to 62.5 per cent in Year 7 and 58.0 per cent in Year 9.

· Nationally, participation rates have bounced back. For primary years, it increased from 93.8 per cent to 95.1 per cent. For secondary years, it increased from 88.9 per cent to 91.6 per cent.

· Participation rates ranged from 88.4 per cent (Year 9 numeracy) to 95.9 per cent (Year 5 reading).

· Demographic results reflect trends in other national assessments and previous NAPLAN results with girls outperforming boys in literacy, and higher results tending to align with students from the highest socioeducational backgrounds, in urban areas, or from non-Indigenous backgrounds. Specifically:

· Nationally, just under 10 per cent of students (on average across all year levels and domains) are in the ‘Needs additional support’ level while, on average across all year levels and domains, around a third of Indigenous students ‘need additional support’.

· Average NAPLAN scores for all year levels and all domains for students from the highest socio-educational background were substantially above those from the lowest.

· Fewer than three in 10 students (30 per cent) in very remote schools are rated as ‘Strong’ or ‘Exceeding’ in any domain or year level, while at least three in five students (60 per cent) in major city schools are rated ‘Strong’ or ‘Exceeding’ across almost all domains and year levels.

· Girls outperformed boys in writing, achieving average NAPLAN scores above boys in every year group, with higher percentages of girls at ‘Strong’ or ‘Exceeding’ levels, notably 70.0 per cent of girls compared to 55.4 per cent of boys in Year 7 and 66.3 per cent of girls compared to 50.2 per cent of boys in Year 9.

· Boys generally outperformed girls in numeracy. The difference was statistically significant inYear 5, with 6 per cent fewer girls in that year level achieving in the ‘Exceeding’ level compared to boys.

The new approach to NAPLAN reporting also complements the other recent NAPLAN improvements endorsed by education ministers. With online adaptive NAPLAN testing now in place in all schools, a new measurement scale has been developed that means results do not have to be equated back to the paper test results of previous years.

This delivers the full benefit of the more precise data derived from online testing. In combination with shifting the NAPLAN test window to March instead of May, this means that these results cannot be compared to previous years.

Both of these changes were recommended by the independent review of NAPLAN completed in 2020. Restarting the time-series has set a new and better baseline for future comparisons and will provide ministers with valuable insights as they progress their discussions about the next National Schools Reform Agreement.

From next year, results will come to schools much earlier now that improvements introduced for 2023 have been implemented. To access the full 2023 NAPLAN national results, including information about the socio-educational profile of each jurisdiction, please visit: https://www.acara.edu. au/naplanresults.

NAPLAN results were released on Wednesday 23 August.

Picture: DAN PELED/AAP

Schools in Victoria have done well, specifically in younger age groups. Picture: UNSPLASH

Man dies in Woori tragedy

A man has died in Woori Yallock after a fatal collision with a school bus, leaving students shaken but uninjured.

Police, CFA and Ambulance Victoria were called to the crash at the Warburton Highway and Lusatia Park Road intersection around 3.35pm on Thursday 24 August when a van collided with the bus.

“The driver and sole occupant of the van, who has yet to be identified, died at the scene. No one else was seriously injured,” police said. The bus driver aged in his 60s was injured.

“A man was taken to Royal Melbourne Hos-

pital,” AmbulanceVictoria confirmed, with the Air Ambulance seen nearby.

Four students from Upper Yarra Secondary College were on the bus on their commute home, 7News reported.

“We will work with the school over the coming days to ensure students, families and staff get any support they need,” a department spokesman said.

The exact cause of the collision is yet to be determined.

Hillcrest CFA asked local residents to be patient when making their way home, as police

remained on scene to investigate the accident.

“Both lanes of Warburton Highway will remain closed for several hours with traffic diversions in place,” the brigade said.

It’s not the first time a serious collision has occurred at the Lusatia Park Road intersection with Warburton Highway, with the Star Mail reporting on two head on collisions in 2015 and 2017.

Residents along the Warburton Highway, stretching from Seville East to Launching Place have been calling for improved road safety for a number of years, with the section of road be-

Breakdown of ‘Warburton Tree’ costs

By Tanya Steele

A recent Council meeting on Tuesday 22 August saw a resident raise concerns over the costs to Yarra Ranges ratepayers for the entire process involved with the Warburton Tree.

Tony Stevenson said he wanted to know as a ratepayer the breakdown of costs associated with the Warburton Tree.

“Could the council break down the significant expenditure of the tree matter 3457...first in the category of tree safety work including arborists, reports and tree surgery to reduce risk to the public and secondly, all other costs incurred,” he said.

Built Environment and Infrastructure director Hjalmar Philipp responded and itemised the costs into the following categories.

Treeworks, $76,495, Security chain and padlocks, $5,091, Traffic Management, $4,000, Fencing, $12,000, Security, $380,000 which came to a total of $477,586.

“All these costs related to measures taken as part of the council’s obligations under the OHS act to address the known and very serious risks arising from the Warburton tree,” he said.

“All these cost components were significantly increased as a result of delays to undertake the necessary safety work and an insurance claim is being pursued in relation to these costs.”

Mr Stevenson then asked the council to clarify the significant expenditure for a single tree in a single town.

“Please explain why the roughly 98 per

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

cent of ratepayers who don’t live in Warburton will be bearing most of the cost,” he said.

Mr Phillipp said costs associated with the Warburton Tree were not forecast in the 2022/23 operating budgets and therefore came out of the council’s consolidated budget, “This isn’t built up on a geographic basis and all ratepayers contribute to it,” he said.

Unplanned costs have impacted the hip pockets ofYarra Ranges residents in this issue and had the Council completed tree works as planned in March 2023 most of the costs that accumulated as a result of protests would not have occurred.

Mr Stevenson was contacted by the council on 24 August via email to confirm his question and response from the meeting.

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.

ing notorious for collisions of a serious nature, with some ending in the deaths of drivers.

A petition filed to VicRoads in 2019 called for upgrades in Seville East with some improvements put in place, like reducing the speed limit but residents were still worried about dangerous driving and collisions as reported by Star Mail in December 2022.

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

A fatal collision in Woori Yallock has caused road closures of the Warburton Highway, with traffic banked up.

Picture: TANYA STEELE A white van was split in half in a collision with a bus on Thursday 24 August ending in the death of the van driver. Picture: SOCIAL MEDIA

Costs of trimming and fencing the Warburton Tree reached over $400,000. 329234 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Making the case for FOGO

By Mikayla van Loon

As food organics and garden organics (FOGO) bins roll out across the Yarra Ranges, discussion around its uses and benefits have been airing in many forms.

With concerns raised about the new threebin system costs and inability to opt out, somewhat of a divide has begun to form between those who are for and against the system.

The new bin system is a statewide policy change under the Circular Economy Waste Reduction Recycling Act 2021 which requires local councils to provide FOGO and eventually glass recycling to all households within its municipality.

An independent report commissioned by Sustainability Victoria in 2017 notes that at least 80 per cent of emissions comes from organic material being sent to landfill.

Yarra Ranges executive officer of resource recovery Graham Brew said in the shire alone, it produced on average per year 30,000 tonnes of waste, 17,000 tonnes of recyclable matter and 16,000 tonnes of organic waste.

“We did an audit on our garbage, recycling and organic bins prior to any change happening and the statistics coming out of that shows 45 per cent is organic material that’s in a waste bin, eight per cent is recyclables and three per cent is e-waste,” he said.

“The state government put a ban on ewaste going to landfill two or three years ago but we’re still getting three per cent of our volume which is e-waste.

“It’s over 50 per cent of material in an average bin, because it’s not everyone’s bin, that is material that does not need to go to landfill.”

With the landfill site used by councils in the east expected to reach capacity within the next two to three years, Mr Brew said it is imperative that the onus is put on every household in the state to reduce waste.

“The important thing is, yes, it’s a state government initiative but it’s a personal responsibility for everyone, not just Council. It’s a good thing. It’s going to reduce landfill, it’s going to improve the environment,” Mr Brew said.

Montrose resident, composter and cofounder of the Montrose Community Cupboard Pat Natoli said he sees the policy as a positive.

“It’s helping people compost if they don’t have the ability to, it’s helping to reduce more carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases going into the atmosphere,” he said.

“And it means we’ve got much more compost to go back onto our farms and into our parks and gardens.”

It’s estimated from the FOGO bin collections statewide that a further 336,000 tonnes of compost will be produced each year, while reducing CO2 emissions by 320,000 tonnes per annum.

Mr Natoli already has a compost bin, worm farm and chickens to help reduce his organic waste but said the FOGO bin would still be useful for scraps and green waste that can’t be broken down at home.

“The fact that you can put meat scraps and your takeaway leftovers or plate scrapings into the FOGO system that changes it from being like ‘I need to think about how I can compost this’,” he said.

“In the grand scheme of things this is going to be super helpful, even if it means we have to pay a little bit for it, we’re going to use it if we get pizza or Thai food or something and it’s got sauce leftover or it’s got stuff that we haven’t consumed that I don’t want to put it into the compost.

“It’s a very easy way for people to be able to contribute and get rid of their scraps or the stuff that maybe they don’t have the time to deal with or don’t have the space to.”

Fellow Montrose resident Tony Stevenson said given he lives on a larger property, it welcomes the addition of the FOGO system.

“As a property owner in the urban areas of Yarra Ranges I do seem to generate a lot of vegetation waste, not all of which can be compos-

ted. I can’t compost ivy, blackberries, creepers and branches from trees and shrubs,” he said.

“As we’re in an urban area we can’t burn off either. So I do rely on my 240 litre green bin to dispose of the green waste I can’t compostwe’ve always composted.”

With the majority of theYarra Ranges population residing in the urban areas without the luxury perhaps of composting, mulching or burning off, Mr Stevenson it seems only fair to split the cost amongst the whole shire “to deliver the best service for the best cost”.

“Ultimately it’s our waste - we generate it. It’s on each household to work out how they can minimise their waste and live with a less frequent bin collection.

“I know it will be a challenge for some - parents with young kids, larger families, seniors with medical waste.”

For Mr Natoli, who was involved in setting up the Kilsyth Community Compost Hub, he said from what he can understand most people are eager to learn and help the environment.

Everything makes a difference. Some people have expressed that they really liked the compost system, and they really liked the idea of being involved in the community as-

pect of it, but maybe don’t have the mobility or the access to come in.

“Everyone wants to feel good about doing the right thing. The small things that you do, whether it’s joining the community compost hub or putting it in the FOGO bin, if you’re in a block of flats or you don’t have access to a compost bin, you are still doing an amazing job if you use the FOGO bin.”

Mr Brew said not only would getting organic and food waste out of general waste bins be a focus but also improving education around recycling, with around 25 per cent of items put in an average recycle bin not being able to be recycled.

“The recycling is over 20 per cent contamination. That’s not bad considering other councils. It’s not good either. I’d like it to be around seven or eight per cent. We’re going to work on that.We’re going to really push on that over the years to do that.”

The FOGO system for the Yarra Ranges will come into effect on 2 October.

“I’ve been in the waste industry for over 30 years and I’ve been in this council for 29 years, this is the biggest change that this council has seen since I’ve been here,” Mr Brew said.

What’s behind the cost of a system yet to be loved?

By Tanya Faulkner

Controversy is in the air around the Yarra Ranges Council’s introduction of FOGO bins to the community, however, they aren’t as bad as believed.

While there are several members of the community still on the fence about the new green-lid bins, with concerns of the cost on locals, Council is speaking up proving that the Yarra Ranges has one of the more affordable options in the South East.

First and foremost, on the face of the newly introduced FOGO bin packages, Yarra Ranges residents have a $40 cheaper option than neighbours in the City of Knox, paying only $459 compared to Knox $496.60 for an average bin package, despite having a slightly smaller population.

Yarra Ranges packages are also cheaper than those in Cardinia and Nillumbick, who face a whopping $616.40 charge for the FOGO bin packages.

Yarra Ranges Council believe the FOGO bins are better for the greater good, with ad-

ditional costs and concerns leading to the overall introduction of waste management in the area.

Executive Officer of Resource Recovery Graham Brew said the overall waste management across Victoria needs to be rethought, especially in the South East.

According to recent reports released by the Council earlier this month, the landfill site in Hallam is filling up drastically, with predictions that the site may be closed by 2026, making the landfill in the East a thing of the past.

Mr Brew said council is facing increasing costs when it comes to waste management in the Yarra Ranges, and changes need to be made.

“Some costs we can’t change include the costs of the truck, the service to pick up bins each fortnight, labour and fuel.

“Regardless of whether locals choose to use FOGO bins or not, you can’t just reduce those costs because the truck doesn’t pick up your bin, it still drives past.

“When looking at the bigger picture, it’s of

greater benefit for the wider community to use their FOGO bins and make the most of the service,” he said.

With the Yarra Ranges Council area being one of the largest in the east, totalling around 2,500 square kilometres, the council said transport costs are significantly higher than its counterparts like Knox with a square kilometre radius of 114 or Nillumbik with 432 and yet have been able to decrease the cost by sharing it equally across all residents.

As a metropolitan council, it is also not eligible to receive an assistance in funding from the State Government for the roll out.

Recovery Communications and Engagement Coordinator Joanna Hammond said the Government has almost doubled the cost of waste per tonne on council, and FOGO has been introduced to reduce the cost of waste by introducing compostable recycling.

“The levy was $63.37 per ton in 2020 of waste, however this year it’s $129.97.

“So it’s a substantial increase in cost for the council to actually get rid of the waste,” she said.

Ms Hammond pointed out that, as taxpayers, the community is constantly paying for things we don’t regularly use, however with FOGO we can do our bit for the environment, and make the most of the services provided to us by both the council and government.

“If you think about your tax, and your rights, you will be paying for things you don’t use.

“I don’t use the footy oval but I’m paying towards them.

“As we all know, landfill, climate change is causing environmental issues, and it’s absolutely vital that as a community we work together to solve this problem,” she said.

Ms Hammond said the community needs a shift in mindset from “it’s not my problem” to “it’s everybody’s problem”.

“It’s a bit like turning the power on, or flushing the toilet.

“It just happens, and we feel the same when we put something in the bin and think “it’s not my problem, I don’t have to worry about this, but it is our problem”.

Continued page 5

The environmental advantages of reducing waste going to landfill has been marked as one of the key reasons for the FOGO bin system.

Picture: TANYA STEELE

Killara Road upgrade remains in question

By Tanya Steele

The proposed Killara Road and Maroondah Highway upgrade remains a question mark for local Coldstream residents as the future of the intersection is still unclear.

The community met with Casey MP Aaron Violi and Shadow Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Tony Pasin on Thursday 24 August to discuss the future of the busy and dangerous intersection.

CFA Captain Sean Bethell said the area is congested and dangerous and the CFA has to be very cautious when entering the highway, even when their sirens and lights are going.

“It can be very difficult, especially if you turn him right, it’s a crappy intersection, to say the least,” he said.

A large group of projects included in the $120 billion infrastructure investment program have been undergoing a 90-day independent review and this includes Killara Road.

The 90-day review period by the Federal Government which began earlier this year is almost complete and MrVioli is concerned the Killara Road upgrades will be taken off the table.

“The former Liberal government committed funding to upgrade this intersection back in 2019. As state governments are responsible for roads, Dan Andrews and his government could have taken that funding and delivered this upgrade,” Mr Violi said.

The project in Killara Road was green-lit for traffic lights to be installed at the Killara RoadStation Street intersection and the Gateway

What is behind the cost?

From page 5

“I think that’s where we’re reaching some of those pain barriers, because we’re telling everybody it’s their problem and as a community we need to solve that.

“If we opt out then the cost goes from them to the other people who are opting in, and would be making locals have to pay more for the service we’re providing,” she said.

Mr Brew said the FOGO bins have a much greater benefit for the environment and the longevity of our existing landfill in the South East.

“As we reduce the volume of waste going to landfill will save money on that side of it.

“At the moment we average around 29,000 to 31,000 tonnes of waste per year, if we can reduce that to 25 tonnes then we can save money on that front.

“There’s a company called Biogro with a number of facilities across Victoria, turning compostable materials into soil products and mulch, meaning our waste will go back to farms and gardens, and help improve the environment.

“There’s a number of councils in Melbourne that actually take the material to that company, and it’s a great way to get it through and processed,” he said.

Yarra Ranges Council are urging locals to think about the greater good in the community, and remember that the cost of the bins is not as great as those in other Victorian municipalities, the costs that council faces, and the impact our decisions may be having on the future of our environment.

For more information on FOGO head to yarraranges.vic.gov.au/whywasteit/ Home

estate entrance in February 2019.

This was assisted by a petition from Coldstream Voice’s Kevin Ryan collected thousands of signatures and was presented to State Parliament in 2018.

Mr Violi said that the Labor Government has sat on this funding for four years, leaving residents in the Yarra Valley to battle near misses every day.

“There have been far too many families impacted by fatalities at this intersection,” Mr Violi said.

Mr Paison said the community need to keep making noise to make sure the work

William

will go ahead.

“We’ve now got a Labor state government that’s talking to a Labor federal government and this project given that it hasn’t gone past the design phase is at huge risk of being cancelled,” he said.

Mr Violi said the turnout at his community meeting with Mr Pasin spoke for itself.

“Not only do the local CFA need to be able to turn out efficiently in emergencies, we’ve got a new estate about to go up which means more cars relying on this road,” he said.

The State’s Department of Transport and Planning was contacted for comment.

Residents gathered in Killara Road to discuss the future of the upgrades.

Residents of Coldstream are concerned about the dangerous road conditions along Maroondah Highway that has been funded for upgrades.

Pictures: TANYA STEELE

The new FOGO bin system and it’s cost have been raising concerns across the Yarra Ranges. Picture: TANYA STEELE

Call to get ready earlier

By Tanya Faulkner

With a dry spring and hot summer on the horizon, locals are being urged to prepare for this years’ upcoming bushfire season.

The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting a drier spring, following our recent wetter conditions, promoting fuel growth, and identifying a higher bushfire risk in the coming months.

The Bureau is suggesting higher chances of above average temperatures combined with below average rainfall, as the nation makes the change from years of La Niña to El Niño conditions.

This prediction is supported by the National Council for Fire and Emergency Services (AFAC) who have also released their Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for spring this year.

These reports come as a strong reminder for Lilydale locals to start preparing for our expected summer conditions.

Coldstream CFA Captain Sean Bethell said now is the time for locals to get prepared.

“For our area, we’re probably more prone to grass fires than bush fires.

“We’ve had good rain this winter and we still have sodden paddocks around the area, but it won’t take long for them to dry out and

have a high yield of growth on them for high fuel loading,” he said.

He said farmers in particular need to take action in the coming weeks to make sure their property is as safe as possible.

“Locals need to start cleaning up around their property, trimming back trees around the perimeter of their land to start making small buffers.

“Farmers need to clear up old debris around their farm, and as their grass gets closer to curing, need to mow around the boundary of their property as part of their regulations.

“They also need to make sure their machinery is well maintained and they have enough fire suppression equipment and water in case something does happen,” said Mr Bethell.

AFAC CEO Rob Webb said almost the entire country can expect drier and warmer conditions than normal this spring, and it’s important to be alert.

“Fire is a regular part of the Australian landscape in spring.

“Wherever you live, work or travel, now is the time to plan and prepare.

Understand your risk, know where you will get your information, and talk to your family about what you will do,” he said.

Step in right direction for Maroondah Reservoir Park

By April Meredith

Spring is on its way and a local environmental group will celebrate the only way they know how at this time of year - by planting annuals.

Friends of Maroondah Reservoir Park will hold their Community Planting day at the Maroondah Reservoir Park on 2 September.

The intent of the day is to bring the community together to plant a variety of annuals in the garden beds that boarder the ‘Rose Steps’ and group president April Meredith said she is really proud of what the group has have achieved since the groups commencement in 2021,

“Both the work we have done in physically improving the gardens and maintenance at the park - but also establishing an incorporated charity organisation, raising funds and actively advocating to maximise the maintenance and preservation of the parks features,” she said.

More recently in 2022 the group commenced planning to undertake works to rejuvenate Rose Steps and restore the surrounding gardens by reinstating over 100 new roses of similar varieties to those planted in the 1950’s. To ensure the future viability of the roses and to protect the historic stonework the remaining pencil pines on rose steps need removing.

Ms Meredith said that unfortunately there have been some delays in receiving the required permits to remove these pines.

“As a result the group have commenced soil preparation works and will plant annuals this year to ensure the steps look amazing over the spring and into the summer,” she said.

The Friends of Maroondah Reservoir Park is a volunteer charity organisation which have been actively working for the past few years to restore and maintain the historic features and gardens within the park.

The iconic ‘Rose Steps’ have been a popular attraction at Maroondah Reservoir Park for both locals and tourists alike since its completion in the 1950’s.

The steps were built from local stone and link the lower portions of the park with the walking paths crossing the dam wall. The historic features within the park, including the significant plants and stone work, are protected under heritage lists to ensure these features can be enjoyed for generations to come.

The group have obtained grants and donations from MelbourneWater, ParksVictoria, Bunnings, Bendigo Bank, Yarra Ranges Council and a range of local businesses and Ms Meredith said that without their support

the group couldn’t achieve what it does.

“We also get amazing community support, locals often reach out whilst the group are working in the park as well as interactions on social media. Everyone is really supportive of preserving and improving the park for both the enjoyment of locals and tourists alike,” she said.

The group always welcome new volunteers to the group and there are a variety of roles people can play.

“It’s not just about parks maintenance, there are also roles for fundraising, recording and sharing the history of the park or planning future works for the group to focus on,” Ms Meredith said.

”f you are interested in volunteering you can visit their website at https://friendsmaroondahre.wixsite.com/maroondahreservoir or on Facebook at https://www. facebook.com/FriendsofMaroondahReservoirPark/

The upcoming community planting day will be on Saturday 2 September, from 9.30 onwards.

There will be a BBQ afterwards to thank everyone involved.

For catering purposes the would really appreciate if people who are planning on attending could please register either through our website, emailing friends.maroondahreservoir@gmail.com or phoning Ms Meredith on 0406 433 459

“The Maroondah Dam really is a community asset that deserves our time to ensure it will still be an amazing place into the future.” Ms Meredith said.

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Thegroupalwayswelcomesnewvolunteers.

Pictures:SUPPLIED

Springplantingisjustroundthecornerfor theFriendsofMaroondahDam.

Vale Leonie: one of a kind

By Tanya Steele

A “one-of-a-kind” community member has passed away and left behind a legacy in Hoddles Creek.

The force with a smile, CFA Captain Leonie Turner has left a hole in the community as family, friends and CFA members continue to mourn her recent passing on 20 July.

Hoddles Creek fire brigade members were devastated by the recent loss of their Captain and the unit have found it hard to express their heartache but posted to social media “Leonie, we will take it from here.”

1st Lieutenant and Acting Captain Graham Boyd said that Leonie has left a very big hole.

“She’s helped so many people in her time with us,” he said.

“She was a strong leader - very, very quiet, but strong.”

The unit gathered informally on Sunday 27 August to remember their Captain for her long term commitment and outstanding service to the community.

Mr Boyd said that her calm presence has helped many members over the years.

“This is how she leaves her imprint,” he said.

Leonie has received National Emergency Medals both in 2014 and again this year for her service at significant fire events inVictoria over the past ten years.

Hoddles Creek Junior Brigade member, Scott Woolf, accepted Leonie’s medal on her and her family’s behalf on 23 July.

Pat Bigham from Gruyere CFA said she recognised early on that Leonie’s unique links to her brigade and community could be well placed in the CFA.

“We asked her to become involved in our peer program - which is a welfare program for firefighters and she became a very popular peer,” she said.

Leonie also created the Hoddles Creek emergency catering crew which provides food and refreshments to CFA, Victoria Police, SES, and other first responders when they are on the scene of emergencies.

Leonie transferred to Hoddles Creek Fire Brigade in 2008 where she soon took up the role of Junior Leader, a role she filled throughout her time at Hoddles Creek.

She led the junior member program for the entire Yarra Valley area and the program gives young people in the local area an opportunity to be involved with emergency services.

Ms Bigham said she thoroughly believed in younger members.

“Quite a few members in the Yarra Valley that were part of her junior program - they’re now in leadership roles in the brigades,” she said.

The juniors program will continue and Ms Bigham said it is likely“they’d be hit with a bolt of lighting” if they let it go by the wayside.

Leonie was also a dedicated member of the Yarra Junction Ambulance axillary.

“She worked really hard to get the new station put in equipment for paramedics, she was always fundraising,” said Ms Bigham.

“She always had the welfare of the CFA and then ambos uppermost in her mind.”

Leonie joined CFA in 1992 firstly with Yarra Junction Fire Brigade and during her time there she held roles of Secretary,Treasurer, 2nd Lieutenant and Junior Leader.

She also held the positions of 2nd and 1st Lieutenants at various times at the Hoddles Creek Brigade before becoming Captain in 2018.

Leonie was awarded CFA Life Membership on reaching 30 years’ service with the CFA in 2022.

Ms Bigham said Leonie was no pushover

but always greeted everyone with a smile.

“She had a fair strong fighting spirit. And she used to call it as she saw it,” she said.

The occasional discipline was dolled out by Leonie and Ms Bigham said it didn’t matter whether if you were the local policeman that had gone away on camp, an ambo driver or one of the commanders.

“If you said or did the wrong thing - you got 20 Push Ups,” she said.

The Hoddles Creek CFA recently had their first meeting without Leonie and Ms Bigham said the volunteer brigade community are still keenly feeling the loss - “it just wasn’t the

same”, she said.

Mr Boyd said the community response to Leonie’s passing has been overwhelming, responses reaching statewide levels.

“It really touched the brigade, it keeps us strong - we look after the community and they look after us,” he said.

“We’re a family when the bricks are down,” Ms Bigham said.

“We’re getting through supporting each other and Leonie would want us to get along,” Mr Boyd said.

Leonie leaves behind family, friends, community and a legacy - a force with a smile.

Leonie was a dedicated CFA member and her loss is being felt keenly in the community.

Picture: ON FILE

Spectacular show planned

By Mikayla van Loon

Students from around the state are preparing and counting down to one of the biggest performances of their lives as they take on the State Schools Spectacular in September.

With a number of Yarra Ranges students joining the performance cohort, Star Mail caught up with them to hear how preparations are going and what they’re looking forward to about getting on stage or behind the scenes.

For Alexis Williams from Mooroolbark Secondary College being involved in Schools Spectacular has been something she’s done since Grade 3 and it’s had her going back every year.

“I loved everything about the Schools Spec and what it stands for, that I had to come back for more,” she said.

Now in Year 7, Alexis is performing as part of the First Nations Ensemble having previously performed in the mass choir.

“It means a lot to me because it is important to recognise First Nations people, and I am very excited to be a part of the very first First Nations ensemble,” Alexis said.

“As I was a part of the First Nations choir last year in State School Spectacular, I was attracted to the First Nations ensemble as I could then have the opportunity to put a larger spotlight on the First Nations community.”

From a regular to a first time participant in Upwey High School student Alfie Wharton, Schools Spectacular caters to everyone.

“The whole idea of getting to be a part of something so grand and, well, spectacular that got me intrigued in the first place,” he said.

“When my friend told me that I could get to work behind the scenes as part of the film crew, I knew I had to sign up.”

Having not really had an interest in the way camera operators work prior to Schools Spectacular Alfie said he has surprisingly enjoyed every moment.

“What I’ve enjoyed most so far as part of the State Spec experience would have to be learning about all the equipment they use behind the scenes, and what I’ll be using on the night

of the actual show,” he said.

“I can definitely say I have since acquired an appreciation for all the different pieces of equipment they have to put together to film the show, and how much effort building a camera can take.”

With just a couple of weeks until the big show, Alexis and Alfie said while there is lots to look forward to, they are excited to put what they have learned into practice.

“I am so excited for the performance as it is always so well put together. I can’t wait for everyone to see what the ensemble has been working on,” Alexis said.

“The Na Djinang Circus has helped us come up with a fantastic performance and I can’t wait for everyone to see it.”

“The actual filming day, although I’ve never been to a State Spec show before, I’m assuming the atmosphere will be amazing, and just the idea of having my camera feed put up on the

jumbotron (I’m guessing that’s where it’ll go) is pretty exciting,” Alfie said.

Both of them said they found value in not only learning more about themselves and their capabilities but also gaining knowledge of how such a large production is produced.

“From participating in the Schools Spec I have not only been able to learn some new things, but also learn more about my culture,” Alexis said.

“Each rehearsal I attend provides me the opportunity to challenge myself.”

“I have definitely met some pretty interesting and very nice people and gained an interest in the behind the scenes aspect of the things I see on TV, that I definitely didn’t have before.”

The Victorian State Schools Spectacular is being held at John Cain Arena on Saturday 9 September, with tickets available by going to www.johncainarena.com.au/event/victorianstate-schools-spectacular-2023/

Fire-safety awareness made into fun at school

By Tanya Steele

Fire safety awareness and a good dash of fun were on the agenda for some lucky primary school kids ahead of the bushfire season across the Yarra Ranges.

Big smiles, flashing lights and some epic water displays made for a fun learning experience for Coldstream Primary School kids on Monday 15 August.

“They loved it, I had to laugh at the faces when turned the pump on and blew the water out the sides,” Mr Brown said.

CFA Coldstream volunteers Graham Brown, David Timms, Nola Amos and Scott McCloud were invited to the primary school to teach kids about fire safety and demonstrate their fire truck capabilities - most notably the water and horn functions.

The visit came about when CFA was at the school doing regular fire extinguisher services and a teacher asked if they could come and do a talk with the students.

“We said, yes we can do that and we arranged a day and we brought the truck to the front of the school,” Mr Brown said.

“We went through what the CFA do, go to housefires, bushfires and car accidents and rescues, not just fighting fires.

Mr Brown briefed the kids on the different uniforms, which are different depending on the circumstances.

“We asked the kids if they knew what a fire plan is and one boy piped up and said ‘that’s when we escape’ he said.

Mr Brown said the kids were clearly a bit clued in and had clearly already picked on some fire awareness.

“They said when there’s a fire you gotta ‘get out quick’ and ‘you gotta get down low’ and I thought that was pretty good,” he said.

Kye said he remembered that you had

to get down low and crawl away from the smoke.

“I enjoyed the information about how to be a firefighter,” said Max.

The business soon turned to the firetruck and the kids immediately requested to “see the red and blue lights go”.

“They thought it was fantastic,” Mr Brown said.

Maddi and Ava said they thought the lights and sirens were the best and Jazzy loved the uniforms.

”I thought the fire truck squirting the water was the best part,” said Mitchell.

The class also shared some of their own experiences with previous fires and things that had happened in their own homes.

The volunteers told the kids how much they enjoyed their volunteer work and some of the children couldn’t quite believe that people volunteer to go out to a fire emergency.

Mr Brown said the crew and kids had a great time and the volunteers loved the thank

you cards they received from the kids.

“I enjoyed presenting our gifts of appreciation,” said Ethan.

“I learned to be prepared,” said Oscar.

Mr Brown said he hadn’t had a school visit for a while and is looking forward to the Coldstreams CFA’s Spring Open Day on 29 October.

“I told them we’ll be squirting hoses and doing all sorts of fun things and if your parents wanted to join as well that would be great,” he said.

Alfie Wharton is taking part in the performance for the first time.

Alexis Williams has joined Schools Spectacular this year as part of the First Nations Ensemble. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Upwey High School students Ethan, Finlay and Alfie each signed up to be part of the behind the scenes crew.

The school turned out for a live demonstration.

Pictures: PROVIDED

Volunteers showed the kids the firetruck, uniforms and did education on fire-safety awareness.

Bridging gap for buddies

By Gabriella Vukman

For the past two weeks, the Year 7s of Upper Yarra Secondary College have trudged their way through erratic weather patterns in order to read to the Preps of Yarra Junction Primary.

Having written their own readers aimed at a preparatory children’s audience as part of their curriculum, Upper Yarra’s Year 7 cohort sat down on Tuesday 22 August with their Prep buddies for an hour of cooperative education.

“We taught them the process of how to create a story and then they were able to finalise it for the start of this term,” Head of Year 7 literacy at the secondary college, Olivia Arnold said.

“I think it’s really great, especially [for] the preppies to see what…high school students are like and actually mingle a little bit

with them.”

While Ms Arnold notes that theYear 7s were a little “apprehensive” about sharing their work, she confirmed that it is important for students to have something in mind to work towards in order to encourage participation in literacy.

“They’ve been really proud of their achievements which is really lovely to see,” she said.

Hailey from Year 7 said reading to the Preps was “a good idea,” confirming that her book about numbers was written to help the younger students “learn more about numbers and how to pronounce them.”

The idea to collaborate with a primary school audience came about through a discussion on the learning qualities inherent in pic-

ture books and came to fruition in the second term. “Luckily we have connections from… [people] previously teaching…[at Junction Primary] so that made it really easy for us to… connect and join up,” Ms Arnold said.

“It’s really nice for them to get that feedback from someone other than their teacher,” she added.

Blake from Year 7 noted that the sharing experience was a good idea and said it was “encouraging the…[Preps] to read.”

“My book’s about different zoo animals.. [and]...I’m proud of it,” Blake said.

This exercise in cooperative learning was also conducted in the efforts to smooth the transition from primary to secondary education.

“I think sometimes high schools and primary schools are a bit disconnected…it’s so great. It’s so great to have them come and talk to each other and just show that…responsibility as well,” Ms Arnold said.

Upon being asked how the move from primary to secondary could be improved, Blake said “They could make it so you get a [few] more brain breaks than you do in Year 8 or 9.”

“It can be made easier if you have lots of friends going with you to Year 7,” he added.

Ms Arnold further accentuated the importance of bridging the gap between primary school and high school and said it helps to prepare students for “coming to high school, which is really important because it can be a bit scary.”

Upper Yarra Secondary and Yarra Junction Primary connecting primary and secondary education through reading. Picture: SUPPLIED High fives for Preps and Year 7.

Top honour for a ‘dartiste’

By Mikayla van Loon

Forty years after winning multiple national and international titles, Seville East’s Andy Robinson has been inducted into the Darts Australia Hall of Fame.

Attending the Australian Championships in Echuca in early August, Andy was surprised by the presentation having not been told it was coming.

“I didn’t know anything about it until we got there,” he said.

Over the last year, Andy has been helping his son Chris collate all the information, trophies and title wins, knowing he’d done much the same as other Hall of Fame inductees.

“A lot of dart players we know have done exactly the same as what I’ve done but they’d got into the Hall of Fame so we started backtracking and looking through everything,” Andy said.

Chris said the Hall of Fame process begins at a local level with the Melbourne Darts League having to put in a request to the Victorian Darts Council, before it’s sent to Darts Australia.

“Then they have to put it out to three members around Australia and they all have to be unanimous in their decision making, so it took at least nine months,” Chris said.

Having played darts as a young lad in his home country, England, Andy said it started out as just a bit of fun with friends, especially with nearly every pub having a dartboard.

Coming to Australia in the 60s, Andy said it took him quite some time to get back into playing.

“When I came out here, I put my darts in a case and said ‘that’s it, I’m not playing again’ and for about four or five years you couldn’t even find a place with a dartboard,” he said.

Once darts picked up in Australia, Andy got back into the game and began to amaze with

his talent, which he put down to practice and arrhythmic.

“I won the league championship and then it just kept on going, Victorian champion, Australian champion with a lot of tournaments in between, just for the love of darts,” Andy said.

Travelling not only all over Australia but around the world to represent the country, Andy became a well known name in the darts community, winning numerous titles.

Representing Victoria and Australia across the ‘70s and ‘80s, Andy’s decade long darts career saw him play in the Six Nations Championship in the UK, the 1981 World Cup in New Zealand, have consecutive singles title wins at the Australian Masters in ‘81 and ‘82, as well as win the Peter Jackson Australian Open in 1984.

He also came runner up in the Pacific Masters, Australian Masters and Australian Grand Masters over five years.

Another claim to his name is beating the

world champion at the time, Leighton Rees, in 1978 in the opening round of Australia versus Wales.

“I loved every minute. Just travelling around and meeting different people from all over the world.”

The Hall of Fame induction has since sparked a walk down memory lane, digging up all the memorabilia and trophies, with the intention of helping put together a timeline of the darts competition for Andy’s playing days.

Andrew (Andy) Robinson was inducted into the Darts Australia Hall of Frame for his incredible talent.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON Andy with his very proud grandchildren Tom, Joe, Sam and Oli. Picture: SUPPLIED

Andy Robinson’s collection of representative shirts and jackets span across tournaments and state and national.

Red Relish Café in Main Street Yarra Junction, has established itself as one of the ‘must visit’ café’s in the Yarra Valley. Owner Sue Cordina will be celebrating six years in business come November. Many hours of hard work, time and patience, has seen the business flourish. With a solid local following andanever-increasingtouristtrade, Red Relish is busy. “Our focus is on good food, made fresh from local ingredients. It makes a difference. Everything is made in house by our fully qualified Chef. Our range of cakes, biscuits and slices are highly sought after, as well as our award winning pies”.

“It’s a pleasure to see the same faces everyday, catching up over a coffee or a meal. It confirms to me we are a welcoming space that people enjoy and feel at home in”.

Red Relish is open 7 days a week serving breakfast and lunch. The café has also established a solid reputation for their catering. Whether it’s a private or corporate function, birthday, baby shower or other special occasion, we can help.

“I’m proud of what we have achieved. Our success has also enabled us to give back to our community through sponsorship of our local sporting clubs, supporting the local schools and community groups. Of course none of this would have been possible without our customers. I am so grateful for your continued support”.

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Take a wander at Canopy

By Tanya Steele

Give into the urge to let your eyes roam and thoughts wander as you enter ‘Canopy’ a collaborative exhibition now showing at the Memo in Healesville.

The group exhibition by the natural textile group “Makers Merge” poses questions as you gaze skyward and had a stellar turnout at their opening atThe Memo, Healesville on Friday 12 August.

“We were really taken with the idea of tree canopies and hollows and the seed of this exhibition stemmed from there - tree hollows only form after 100 years and this fact kind of blew us away,” Artist Lis De Vries said.

Regional Exhibitions Officer from Yarra Ranges Council Bronwyn Ward said it was a joy to be able to showcase the work here.

“It was a great opportunity to bring in some artists who live in Melbourne, mainly because the focus of this exhibition was around urban

biodiversity,” she said.

“The Yarra Ranges is such a border country between the urban, hills, valley, country and forest environment.”

The opening night had a great turnout of over 150 people coming through the opening which is a great result for the artists and the community around them,

Ms Ward said that many of the visitors had not been to the Memo before.

“There was a lovely ripple effect of having a large group of people from Melbourne coming out to this exhibition in particular, but then engaging with the rest of Healesville as well,” she said.

Artist Lis De Vries said the collaboration came about when the Makers Merge group began playing about with recycled art and textiles.

“Most of us graduated from RMIT and we all love textiles and prints - it’s a diverse field,”

she said.

Designed to embrace the value of biodiversity, the exhibition uses textiles to fuse urban and wild elements together and features art mediums used in a sustainable way.

“One of our artists Georgina is doing a PhD in biodiversity and she really highlights the lens of thinking about how people and nature come together,” Ms Vries said.

The works use natural offcut yarns and fibres and some are made from recycled plastic plastic bags.

“I don’t generally buy yarns and use only natural fibres,” Ms Vries said.

Ms Vries said Makers Merge has been together for a couple of years and the group has jelled together in collaboration a few times.

“We are using textiles and trying to send a message and have a bit of fun along the way,” she said.

The exhibition also features a nature

sounds audio track and the group said they hope people can immerse themselves in the sounds of nature.

“You want to create something that is engaging and hopefully people feel mesmerised by what they see,” Ms Vries said.

“Good art will engage and get the viewer to ask questions of themselves,” she said.

The group was meeting over Zoom during lockdown and this exhibition prompted them to be intentional about meeting in person to prepare this collaboration.

“Sarah was building her tree in her garage because it was so large - it was an inspiring point for all of us,” Ms Vries said.

“We were able to give each other support and feedback and it is interesting how this process leads to our work being connected in the end,” she said.

‘Canopy’ will be on show at The Memo, Healesville, 235 Maroondah Highway until 1 October and is free to view.

‘I wonder why people have such a visceral reaction’

By Gabriella Vukman

Exploring the landscapes of gender equality, Warburton artist and photographer Suzanne Phoenix’s first hand cut collage exhibition opened August 21.

The exhibition will be held at Nancy’s cafe in Yarra Junction, where the works will feature upon the cafe’s walls.

Suzanne’s work depicts an array of vintage and gothic ensembles, highlighting the Hollywood eras prior and during the 70s.

“I always have a focus on women and non-binary people and… I’m interested in challenging the normal stereotypes so the collage is a way for me to do that in a different way,” Suzanne said.

Growing up reading magazines and watching television during the ‘70s, Suzanne describes herself as “have[ing] an affinity”

with this imagery. Compiling this somewhat retro and analogue Hollywood epoch with the Australian landscape ties the two worlds of natural and falsified reality together.

Articulating the didactic relationship between an artist and their work, Suzanne notes how public exposure changes this relationship.

“It feels quite vulnerable to put them out into the world,” Suzanne said.

“It’s always a bit daunting and once you’ve handed it over, you’ve handed it over.”

Knuckling down on her artistry during the pandemic, Suzanne said“without lockdown I don’t know that I would have got here.”

Asserting that these pieces are “a much more personal work in a lot of ways than the photography… I… do”, Suzanne outlines the “very different process” that accompanies her upcoming collage exhibition.

Suzanne said her favourite artwork, from this collection (the image titled ‘Faceless 5’), is “one that many people…[say] don’t put

that one in there.”

“It’s scary and it’s disturbing” Suzanne said.

“I think it shows that that… typical Hollywood beauty…siren on the screen…but actually that’s just a façade…You’re looking into her soul in there which is much more complicated.”

Claiming to have always been a “science kid,” with no intention of becoming an artist, Suzanne’s advice for upcoming artists is to “just do it.”

“Explore and see where you get to and if you want to exhibit in places …your local cafes are great.”

Having previously exhibited collections with Nancy’s owner Emily, Suzanne said “I feel really honoured to have…my…artworks up on her walls.”

Collage Exhibition artwork titled ‘Faceless 5.’ Picture: SUZANNE PHOENIX

Sarah Berry creates sculptural and installation pieces working with textiles alongside discarded, waste or unused materials. creates sculptural and installation pieces working with textiles alongside discarded, waste or unused materials. Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Bronwyn Ward in the foyer of The Memo - Canopy features many large scale pieces for the public to enjoy.

Valley guide to favourites

By Gabriella Vukman

Among the distinctive buzz of cicadas and hooting Kookaburra laughter, Australia’s favourite animal sounds can be heard in our very own Valley.

The ABC’s recent poll determining Australia’s favourite animal sounds received a whopping 120,000 votes, confirming the Magpie as the winner on 18 August.

Here is a guide on where you can find and hear some of the top 10 finalists in our very own Valley.

The Kookaburra

Landing in the poll’s top 10, the kookookaaakaakaa of the notorious nursery rhyme bird is a prominent feature in day-to-day Valley life. Communicating territory, the calls of the kookaburra can most often be heard at dusk and dawn.

These cheeky birds have been known to hang around barbecues, stealing sausages from barbecues and right out of the hands of people.

Local birding expert Chris Doughty said “they don’t just eat them, they kill them first. They think it’s a snake so they bang it on the branch and then eat it.”

Kookaburras nest in hollows off the ground, so between September and January, don’t forget to look up into the treeline for some fluffy baby Kookas.

Feeding on insects, fish and lizards, this feathered favourite is also not afraid to snack

on a poisonous snake for dessert!

The Banjo or ‘Pobblebonk’ Frog

Known for its babbling ‘bonk, bonk’ sound, the little Pobblebonk Frog or Banjo Frog can be heard bonking during its mating season in spring.

The name‘Banjo Frog’ stems from the similarity of the frog’s bonk call to the plucking of a banjo string.

The males take turns bellowing their bonks in the hope of attracting a mate.

Local environmental consultant David De Angelis sheds some light on the Banjo Frog, asserting that the frog only generates “a single note at a time”. This means that the ‘pobblebonk’ call, made up of three ‘bonks’ is actually “three individual calls” from different frogs, in

rapid succession.

These guys like to burrow and can be spotted in your compost.

“People often dig them up in the garden,” David said.

Further, a soothing, springtime stroll along the slow-flowing parts of the little Yarra River can also serve as an excellent opportunity to hear and spot the Banjo Frog.

David notes that you can differentiate between the pobblebonks found in Melbourne and those found in the Upper Yarra Valley. Make sure to look out for the “thin white stripe or line along the middle of the back,” David said.

The Butcherbird

The Butcherbird yields its name from the manner in which it kills its prey, leaving it skewered on twigs to save for later.

“They’ll kill something, say a beetle, and they’ll put it on a thorn in a bush and leave it as sort of a larder to come back to,” Chris said.

This bird elicits a raving and melodious trill and is common throughoutVictoria, including the suburbs.You can even find Butcherbirds in your backyard.

Chris goes on to claim that the Butcherbird “probably has the prettiest song in Melbourne”

The Black Cockatoo

The startling screech of the black cockatoo also echoes throughout the Valley. These dark beauties are endangered with two of the five species thought to become extinct in the wild.

The community needs to make active changes such as reducing deforestation and the use of pesticides to ensure that the alarming and impromptu squawk of the Black cockatoo will be heard by future Australians.

The Lyrebird

Last but not least is the mysterious lyrebird, a historical phenomenon that mimics the sounds of the bush and sometimes even human life around them. Incredibly shy and relatively large, the lyrebird likes to lurk in heavily forested areas and can be spotted in the Cathedral Ranges and Sherbrooke forest.

The lyrebird doesn’t fool everyone with its calls however. Chris Doughty said, “you can tell it’s a lyrebird because it’s far too loud.”

Chris notes that Lyrebirds have “some of the largest lungs of any bird in the world”. Startling and confusing the creatures around it with random and varying calls, the lyrebird uses its vocal repertoire to lure a mate. These calls are heard during the breeding season.

Chris posited that the call is territorial and said it is also “to let other males know that that territory is occupied.”

“They breed in the middle of winter which is very unusual,” Chris said.

The Guurguurr or Boobook bird, whipbird, magpie, summer cicadas and fairy wren also made it into the poll’s top 10, reflecting the diversity in Aussie bush sound favourites.

Which animal sound is your favourite?

Sanctuary’s raptor rehab giving birds second chance

A world-class flight centre opened at Healesville Sanctuary on Monday 14 August – giving injured birds a second chance at life in the wild.

Minister for Environment Ingrid Stit said that this world-class flight facility allows Healesville Sanctuary’s veterinary team to continue its fantastic work rehabilitating raptors.

“I hope that allVictorians can enjoy seeing these beautiful birds soar across our skies,” she said.

The government invested more than $3.2 million in the Raptor Rehabilitation Centre, which was also supported by generous anonymous donors who believe in creating a future rich in wildlife.

Minister for Tourism, Sport, and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said we’re backing Healesville Sanctuary to become an even better tourism attraction.

“The new raptor rehabilitation facility is delivering another reason to attract more visitors to the region,” he said.

The purpose-built rehabilitation centre forms a continuous, circular flight path of approximately 100 metres and stands an impressive six metres tall. Inside there are wildlife wards, an intensive care unit and a

courtyard. The Raptor Rehabilitation Centre is next to the Sanctuary’s wildlife hospital, allowing the veterinary team to easily administer care and observe the recovering health of patients.

The Centre will support native bird species, such as Wedge-tailed Eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls.

Raptors are birds of prey that use their beaks and feet to catch and kill food, so they need to be agile in their environment.

Flight fitness is critical to ensure raptors

can return to the wild and thrives. The longer a bird needs medical treatment, the greater the risk of it losing fitness, which also increases the need for effective rehabilitation.

In the past year, 63 raptors have received treatment at Healesville Sanctuary’s Australian Wildlife Health Centre, using a temporary flight tunnel to help their rehabilitation.

Road trauma-related injuries are the most common reason for wild birds needing veterinary care.

A boardwalk will enable Healesville Sanc-

tuary visitors to see the full size of the Raptor Rehabilitation Centre, while small private groups will have the opportunity to tour the facility when it is not in use for wildlife. The hospital gallery space has also been renovated. Healesville Sanctuary Director Ross Williamson said Healesville Sanctuary has a long affiliation with raptors, including Wedgetailed Eagles.

“This centre will help tremendously in the way we are able to care for these birds and return them to the wild,” he said.

A barn owl receives vet treatment.

A world-class, flight centre of unprecedented scale and capacity has been unveiled at Healesville Sanctuary called the Raptor Rehabilitation Centre. Pictures: ZOOS VICTORIA

Kookaburra, one of the top ten finalists in the ABC poll for Australia’s favourite animal sound.

Picture: MIKAELA EGAN, UNSPLASH

FOGO: the talk of town

This column is arriving at a watershed moment for our community, ahead of the start of food organics and garden organics (FOGO) bin collections on 2 October.

Even if this moment doesn’t seem huge to you – if you’ve been composting at home or trying to adopt a low-waste lifestyle – it is a change across our community not seen since the introduction of recycling more than 30 years ago.

Your FOGO bins, which will be arriving shortly for people without a lime green bin, with a kitchen caddy and compostable liners, will be the place to put any and all food scraps – fruit, vegetables, bones, meat, dairy and eggs – along with any garden or green waste.

Each week, your FOGO bins will be collected and all of the material within processed to create mulch for gardens and farms. On average almost half of what used to go in your rubbish bin will now move to your FOGO bin.

This change also means your rubbish bin will now be collected fortnightly – on the opposite week to your yellow recycling bin.

We know this will be a colossal adjustment for our community, and I’d like to thank all of the community members who have been in touch, or visited our FOGO website, yarraranges.vic.gov.au/whywasteit, to learn more about the change.

When you put something in the bin, it

Jim Child

doesn’t go away – it either gets buried in landfill, or it becomes something new through FOGO processing or recycling.

We need as few things as possible to end up in landfill, and these FOGO bins will help immensely in that goal especially if you’ve not been able to compost at home yet.

The result is that, if you have to throw out excess or expired food, it will be used to create something new, nourishing soil in farms and gardens.

But I know people reading this may still have questions. Change is rarely easy, and this is a big change.We’re asking you to try the new bin collection system, give it a go and stop sending these items to landfill.

Visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/whywasteit for more information about how to get the most out of your collections, or you can give our teams a call on 1300 368 333.

Film bring fast fun to sci fi

They Cloned Tyrone

John Boyega,Teyonah Parris and Jamie Foxx

MA15+

4.5/5

They Cloned Tyrone is a fast-paced, fun and socially-conscious science fiction mystery film.

A drug-dealer named Fontaine (John Boyega), a hooker named Yo-Yo (Teyonah Parris) and a pimp named Slick Charles (Jamie Foxx) investigate a conspiracy running deep beneath their town.

With its underground laboratory and clonebased conspiracy, They Cloned Tyrone feels like a non-horror, Blaxploitation cousin of Jordan Peele’s Us.

Boyega, Parris and Foxx have phenomenal chemistry, bouncing off each other with endlessly witty dialogue, and their characters grow tangibly throughout the film. The humour both embraces and subverts black American archetypes, and the plot explores themes such as racism, crime in poor communities, social engineering and the historical owning and control of black bodies without being heavy-handed.

The plot is very well-paced, raising the stakes as Fontaine, Yo-Yo and Slick Charles uncover more of the conspiracy. The tight

Local theatre’s service call

Burrinja Theatre

Hard to Reach Pieces – Anna Lamb

Restless, anxious, and strangely liberated by having no life plan, Anna wonders if everyone else is faking it too.

A day in a woman’s life is played out nonsequentially as she navigates the challenges of parenting relationships, sow business, visible ageing and the unrealistic expectations she places on herself and others.

This new solo work combines circus, movement, text and sound in a darkly humorous, irreverent and personal insight into the person’s daily experiences and the chaos that ensues from some questionable life choices.

Season: Thursday 7 September at 7.30pm in the Lyre Room.

Lilydale Athenaeum theatre

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare .

Kemp’s curtain call

screenplay has several plot-points return later in clever ways, and the film generates an atmosphere of insidious control and hopelessness that the trio must overcome with their wits, charm and cunning. Kiefer Sutherland is both amiable and sinister as Nixon, the leader of the cloning project.

The opening may put off some viewers with its criminal characters and bursts of stark violence, but this minor hurdle leads to a thoroughly rewarding film.

They Cloned Tyrone is an entertaining, well-crafted and lucid sci-fi mystery film, and is available for streaming on Netflix.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Featured are all 97 of Shakespeare’s plays, meant to be performed in 97 minutes, by three very energetic actors.

It is fast paced, witty and physical and full of laughter for Shakespeare lovers and haters alike.

Season: opens 7 September.

Bookings: 9735 1777 between 10am –2pm Monday, Tuesday and Friday.

Veterans!

Do you have trouble settling in the community when you have retired from the Armed forces?

Why not try your local theatre, they are always looking for assistance. People don’t

realise that theatre comprises about 89 per cent off stage and about 20 per cent on stage. Off stage there are plenty of openings, such as front of house where the audience is met by a member handing out programs, bar keeping where people can have a drink, ticket selling. Behind the stage we have electricians, carpenters, artists painting the sets, prop manufacture, set builders, stagehands and stage managers. Perhaps you would like to learn new skills. As in the Armed Forces teamwork is a necessity but not only teamwork, joining a theatre group is a good way to meet new friends, learn new skills and if you are so inclined even appear onstage.

Theatre companies! Are you looking for new members? Think about ex-service personal, They could be new to the area, known by some members or if not known go tour own RSL who may be able to help in finding new retirees and you may save some form Veteran suicide.

A Reminder

· The Basin theatre – Belle Season. Season: October 5 – 15.

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

A review of Inheritance: A tender and poignant novel

A review of Inheritance by Kath O’Connor Inheritance, published after the death of its author Kath O’Connor at the age of 45, attracted much media attention earlier this year. Not just because February was Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

The novel itself is a triumph, described as “limpid, deeply empathetic”. It was praised as “a remarkable testament to life”, “a beautiful book”, and “an incredibly strong debut”.

O’Connor’s work was compared with Georgia Blain’s Between a Wolf and a Dog, as Blain, too, died from cancer while working on her manuscript. It reminds this reviewer of Andrew McGahan’s The Rich Man’s House and Kala Heinemann’s Pink Punk Mum – both were published posthumously, their authors taken by cancer.

What is it about death that casts such a shadow over our lives? It injects an icy fear into our hearts, a relentless warning that life

PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

should be lived to its fullest while there is still a chance. Think of the ghostly whisper from Dead Poets Society: “Carpe diem, seize the day. Gather ye rosebuds while ye may.”

On the eve of the first anniversary of the death of a beloved family member, this reviewer “reads” Inheritance as an audiobook narrated by Brigid Gallagher. It is a beautiful and thought provoking encounter, thorough-

ly powerful and deeply immersive.

An impressive narrator, Gallagher brings the book’s many characters to life, starting with how Nellie’s husband does the “most perfect impression” of former prime minister John Curtin, “complete with the long pauses and the rolled R’s”: “I call on you to eat your rabbit and your vegetables... The call is national. The call is individual, for ‘no one else can do your share’.”

Gallagher does Nellie’s voice slightly higher-pitched, perfectly conveying the selfsense of a woman trying to manage family and farm life in 1945 regional Victoria after surrendering her higher education and plans for a brilliant career. Aware that she will soon die from cancer, there is a mixture of forlornness and melancholy in her voice that tugs at the listener’s heart. In contrast is the firm, thoughtful voice of her friend Ruth, a political activist who will profoundly shape the lives of Nellie and her descendants.

Then there is the calm, reflective voice of Rose in 2016, an oncologist searching for the origin of her BRCA1 gene mutation that, without a total hysterectomy and a bilateral mastectomy, will cause her early death from ovarian cancer. In contrast are the grumpy voice of Rose’s father and the strained voice of her motherhood-aspiring partner, two forces that threaten to pull her life apart.

As Nellie contemplates her impending death and its impact on her two young children, and as Rose considers her life’s options, we are further confronted by the important issue of human rights, including those of women and refugees. The narrator’s tender, empathetic voice elicits that little echo in our hearts, whispering: How would we choose if we were the characters in the book?

A gifted author voiced by a talented narrator, exactly the way the book should be heard. Highly recommended.

LIVE THE IDEAL LIFESTYLE

A HAVEN of small acreage nestled within the gorgeous Yarra Valley, this inviting 4 bedroom homestead offers great infrastructure in an idyllic setting that features the adjoining Rail Trail and tranquil Little Yarra River.

The adventure begins at the entrance, a gateway to your very own private sanctuary. Head up the winding driveway through rolling grassy paddocks, and captivating filtered mountain views. The homestead, boasts four generously appointed bedrooms, the master suite features an elegant ensuite, while a spacious family bathroom has the convenience of an external door.

A supersized kitchen, where abundant bench space and storage complement the magnificent Falcon cooker, enjoy whipping up a storm while looking out over the picturesque property. The kitchen transitions into the living and meals area, where the warmth of a wood heater works in harmony with the convenience of a split system. A showpiece sandstone open fireplace adds a touch of timeless allure.

Outside established fruit trees, assorted paddocks, accompanied by thoughtfully designed loose boxes extending an invitation to equestrian enthusiasts. A well fenced area behind the house is just what you will need for the pets and kids.

Wood sheds and an expansive Americanstyle barn offers versatility and space for storage and or stables and all the hobbies you dream of starting!

Prepare to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey as you step onto this coveted property, where the heartbeat of town life, shopping, and public transport are all within a short leisurely stroll. A private gate opens onto the Rail Trail, beckoning you to leisurely walk or perhaps a horseback adventure. This property, boasting unrivalled location and potential, is yours to enhance and shape as your heart desires. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

‘ST HILDAS’ CIRCA 1904, ON LARGE BLOCK

OFFERS closing Tuesday 12th of September 2023 at 5pm (unless sold prior).

Edward VII donated the land on which St Hildas stands today, a beautiful flat parcel of just over 4000 m2, now with old growth Rhododendrons and beautiful aged Oak trees.

St. Hilda’s Church, opened in 1904, is an example of the many churches built in the small villages of the Dandenong’s last century. This church was one of the first township buildings in Macclesfield, which was settled in the 1860s by gold prospectors from the abandoned Emerald Diggings.

The timber church is built in the Federation Gothic style, pointed arch timber doors flanked by pointed arch, multi pane windows. It showcases a beautiful chapel, fully lined with Baltic pine, the original door still welcomes you. A covered walkway was added to the join the hall that was built around twenty years ago. It was constructed in the same style and blends perfectly with the original Church. The hall comprises a large open plan meeting area, has two WC’s and a kitchen.

The grounds offer plenty of off-street parking, they are partially fenced and predominately level.

St Hildas is a special place that may offer a variety of options for you, potential to make it whatever you need, subject to council approval of course. You may want it as a dwelling, a Church or community group, meeting place, meditation, wedding venue, even a healing centre, art space –the possibilities are endless. It is currently tenanted on a short-term basis.

Set in the lovely township of Macclesfield, you have the Primary School and Community Hall nearby, are close to Monbulk and Emerald townships, lots of walks, rides and even agistments. A perfect move/investment in the country awaits.

Please note: this property does not have a bedroom or bathroom. (2 toilets only) ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

classicfarmhousewithcharmfromthe1950sperchedatthetopofthehillwithstunning sunsets&views.thehomeoffersopenplanliving,loungewithawoodheater,separate mealsarea,recentlypainted&newlycarpeted,5paddocks,3 baybarnwithattached sidecarport&additionalundercoverstorage,2shippingcontainers,beautifulmostly clearedlandexceptfortreesalongthecreeklines.

ExcEllEntGArAGES

3.2acres.FireDamagedResidence

Accessviaasealeddrivewaythispropertyoffersavarietyofoptions. thebrickveneerhousehasextensivefiredamage,theroofwillneedtobereplaced, thedeck,partoftherearwall,someflooring,andwindows.We canprovidefurther informationonceyouhaveinspectedthehomeandregistered yourdetails.the residenceoffers5bedrooms,themainwithdressingroomand ensuite,thereareafurther 2bathroomsandseparatelivingzones.

MickDolphin 0429684522

ErinDavies 0493136937

PlEASinGtrEE-chAnGE

takeinthebeautiful,treedvistasthisresidenceisasfunctionalasitisappealing.Set amongstanearly¼acreallotmentthathasbeenbeautifullylandscaped. Familieswillenjoythesafechild-friendlycourtposition andtheefficientfloorplanwhich blendscommunalfamilyzonesandstilloffersparentalprivacywhenrequired.thisyoung homebuiltin2013islight,bright,andairy.itistheperfectpropertytoenjoytheindoor/ outdoorlifestylewealllove.

ExcEllEntPlAcEtoStArt

NearFlat¼acre.Potential

Pricedtoplease,onanearflat¼acreblockwithalovelyoutlookfromthefrontdeck, thispropertyisperfectifyouarelookingforhomethatneedsabitofupdatingnow,but long-termwillbeagreatplacetocallhome.Boththefrontandrearyardsareblank canvasesforyoutomakeexactlywhatyouwantandtosuityour needs,thereisalready aconcreteflooredlargeshed.Abonusisthatthereisalready excellentfencing.

MickDolphin 0429684522

ErinDavies 0493136937

4 A 2 B 2 C

5 A 3 B 2 C

CoCkatoo 8MoolAroAd $795,000-$870,000

2 A 2 B 1 C

CoCkatoo 58nEvillEStrEEt $570,000-$620,000

HOME FOCUS

A HEAVENLY PLACE TO LIVE

SITUATED in the glorious surrounds of the picturesque Yarra Valley this beautiful and enchanting old church standing proudly for around 100 years, rich in history and now ready for the new owners to live, love and enjoy.

Fresh, light and bright throughout with all the charm and character from the early 1900’s and with a warm homely ambience you can’t help but relax, unwind and admire the building.

Set on a colorful block of land overlooking a semi rural vista of approx. 1590 sqm there’s plenty of scope to enhance the property. Positioned to please and being just minutes stroll to the ever popular Warburton trail, shops, schools and transport and with the Yarra River and the historic Home Hotel Pub just minutes away it’s the ideal weekender, B & B or a unique and special place to call home. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

Address: 102 Barak Drive, Launching Place, VIC 3139

Contact: David Carroll 0419 539 320, BELL REAL

BIG 4 BEDROOM FAMILY HOME ON AN ACRE

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

The whole family will love the outdoors with well over 1 acre (4476sqm) to enjoy

HOME ESSENTIALS

and explore, established gardens and lush lawns the kids and pets will love it, a large lock up high clearance garage/workshop provides the ideal spot for caravans, boats, trucks and trailers, plus a separate 2 car garage and tool/garden shed.

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

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

Address: 10 Little Joe Court, Wesburn, VIC 3799

Contact: David Carroll 0419 539 320, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION. 5967 1277

AHeavenlyPlacetoLive

SituatedintheglorioussurroundsofthepicturesqueYarraValleythisbeautifulandenchantingold churchstandingproudlyforaround100years,richinhistoryandnowreadyforthenewowners tolive,loveandenjoy.Fresh,lightandbrightthroughoutwithallthecharmandcharacterfrom theearly1900’sandwithawarmhomelyambienceyoucan’thelpbutrelax,unwindandadmire thebuilding.Setonacolourfulblockoflandoverlookingasemiruralvistaofapprox.1500sq.m plus,completewith2separatetitles.There’splentyofscopetoenhancetheproperty,positioned topleaseandbeingjustashortdistancetotheeverpopularWarburtontrail,shops,schoolsand transportandwiththeYarraRiverandthehistoricHomeHotelPubjustashortstrollaway,it’sthe idealweekender,B&Borauniqueandspecialplacetocallhome.

Convenientlowmaintenance&privatelivinginaprimelocation!

OnlyminuteswalktothetownshipofYarraJunctionandallthatithastoofferincludingShopping, Doctors,SportingFacilities,PublicTransport,RailTrail,LittleYarraRiverandmore-youwillfind thisbrickunittuckedawayatthebackofacomplexofonly4-soquietandprivacyisassured. Consistingof2bedrooms,semiensuite,singlecarportwithgardenshedandsecurestorageroom -somethingtolikeforeveryone.Updatedkitchenalongwithopenplanlivinggivethefeelingof space,anupdatedbathroomwithfloortoceilingtiles,disabilityaccesswithhandrailsandwalkin spaciousshowerandplentyofroom.Splitsystemheatingandcoolinghasallclimatestakencareof. Extrasincludesolarpower,walkinpantry,largeprivateyardwithgardenshedandsecurefencing andgates.Callnowforinspection!

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

Everythingyouneedforabrilliantstartwithbonusstudioinbackyard!

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

LeahBannerman M 0448924266

17NelloDrive,Reefton$500,000-$550,000

Peacefulretreattoenjoythegreatoutdoors!

Setamongstthetreesandonalargeallotmentofapprox.6728sqmyouwillfeellikeyouhavewon thejackpotherewithsomuchspacetoabsorbyourselfin.Thehomehasacosyopenplanliving andoriginalkitchenwithawoodfiretoreallymakeyoufeellikeyou’reinthecountry.4generous bedroomsandsimplebathroommakesthisisidealplacetocallhomeoreventheidealweekender. Outsidethehighlightwouldhavetobetheexpansiveverandathatoverlooksyourland,adelightful spottojustunwindandtakeitallin,numerousshedstoexploreandevenachookshed.Onlyashort driveoutfromthebustlingtownofWarburtonandsurroundedbyfabulousplacestoexplore,Upper YarraDam,Redwoodforestandmultiplewalkingtracks,anadventuroushomeforalltoindulgein andenjoythegreatoutdoors.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

WARBURTON HOME WITH HEART AND SOUL

IF you are looking for a home that reflects the love and care of its owner, look no further than this charming brick veneer property at 36 Donna Buang Road, Warburton. Set on a generous allotment of approximately 2920sqm, this home boasts a lovingly maintained garden that invites you to relax and enjoy the stunning mountain views.

The garden and setting is an integral part of this property and is landscaped with a variety of plants, flowers and trees that create a sense of harmony and tranquillity.

You will discover lots of interesting nooks and crannies in the garden, such as a chook shed, fruit trees and vegie gardens that provide fresh produce and eggs. The property has an outlook to “Rocky Creek” at the rear of the property, where you can listen to the soothing sound of water and watch the wildlife.

The main house features a spacious lounge, dining and well-equipped timber kitchen, as well as three good sized bedrooms and a sunroom/study that overlooks the scenic vista. The bathroom is modern and bright, with a separate toilet for convenience.

Underneath the main house, you will find a versatile area that could be used as a B&B or intergenerational accommodation. It has its own bedroom, bathroom and small living area, with a separate entrance for privacy.

Warburton is renowned for its natural beauty and lifestyle opportunities, and this property is close to the historic town that is currently being revived to be a tourist and mountain bike mecca. You will love the proximity to the Yarra River, the Warburton Trail, cafes, shops, and schools.

Don’t miss this opportunity to own this special property in Warburton. Contact us today to arrange an inspection. ●

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

FORSALE

1VistaRoad,BELGRAVEHEIGHTS $1,380,000-$1,480,000 ‘GREENWOOD’–QUALITY,SIZE&TIMELESSAPPEAL 4 A 2

Apictureofperfectionawaitsat‘Greenwood’,amuchloved,FederationHarkaway home,builtandengineeredtoanoutstandinglevelofdetailandofferingatraditional, periodstylehomethatboastseleganceoneverylevel.Spaciousandsolid,therehas beennocompromiseonquality,offering4bedrooms,homeoffice(or5thbedroom),dual bathroomsandaversatilefloorplantomeetanyfamily’srequirements.

SharynChandler

M 0439882442| E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

21BiancaCourt,ROWVILLE

$890,000-$950,000

SINGLELEVELHOMEINPEACEFULPOCKETPOSITION

4 A 2 B

Fromitssprawling628sqm(approx.)cornerallotmentinaquietno-throughroadposition, thisimpressivehomeoffersanoutstandinglifestyle.Designedforcomfortwithinasingle levellayout,everyelementrequiredforenviablefamilylivingcanbefoundhere.Upon entry,thegenerousloungewith floortoceilingwindowsisadornedwithqualitycarpetfora warmandcosyfeeling.

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

38MorrisRoad,UPWEY $730,000-$770,000

CLASSICHOMEWITHCOVETEDNRZ2SUBDIVISIONZONING 3 A 1 B

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

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

DanielSteen

M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

PUZZLES

No.

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Plant yielding gingili oil (6)

4 Area; zone (8)

9 Donkeys (5)

10 Heedless (9)

11 Garment (5)

12 Characterised by regular lines (9)

13 Useless person or thing (4,4)

15 Interior courtyard (6)

16 Discharge (6)

18 Moving out (from) (8)

23 Point to be judged upon (9)

24 “I don’t know” (colloq) (5)

26 Undervalue (9)

27 Japanese camera company (5)

28 A city and seaport of Scotland (8)

29 Attempts (6)

DOWN

1 Began (7)

2 Actress, – Sarandon (5)

3 Melodious (7)

5 Use to insert charge into muzzle-loading firearm (6)

6 Harmony (7)

7 Egyptian queen (9)

8 Old name of phone company (7)

10 Spurs on (5)

14 Accept reluctantly (9)

16 Scene of simple pleasure (7)

17 Island in the North Atlantic (7)

19 Skin disease (5)

20 Gnawing animals (7)

21 Sediment (7)

22 Conclusion (6)

25 Mobile phone company (5)

DECODER WORDFIT

8

1 14

2 15

3 16

4 17

5 18

6 19

7 20

8 21

9 22

10 23

11 24

12 25

9-LETTER WORD

12 345678910111213

561274893

894631275

483756912 147362589

629143758 258917364

372598641

936485127

412853976

921438765

347965812

735691428 273586149

698247531 154329687

easy medium hard

586712394

869174253

18

473281659

862735491

345196287

715829436 784962315

251679843 136457928

698543172 529318764

917824536

words: Very good ALERT ALLOT ALTOS ANGEL APING APRON ARENA AROMA ASSET AURAL DALLY DISCS EASEL EASES EERIE EMIRS ENDOW ENEMA FLAME GRIME GRINS

words: Excellent IDOLS MANGE MEMOS MERES MERIT MOODS OMEGA PANDA PAPAS PASTA PEEPS ROAMS SEATS SHAME SLEWS SNEAK SNOWS SPANS SPATS STEAM STEER

entity, eying, gelt, genii, GENTILITY, gently, glen, ignite, inlet, intel, lenity, lent, letting, lien, lignite, line, lite, tent, tile, tine, tinge, tingle, title, yeti

13 26 JZ HERITAGE & HERITAGE FUNERALS Lilydale 9739 7799 Healesville 5962 1600 HERITAGE PIONEERS CHAPEL 1414 Healesville/Koo Wee Rup Road, Woori Yallock 5964 6500 Head Office: 733 Boronia Road, Wantirna 9800 3000 info@ heritagefunerals.com.au www.heritagefunerals.com.au

TIMES TWIST VERGE 6 LETTERS ASSENT ECZEMA OCTAVE STRAND 7 LETTERS BIRTHED DRAINED FILTERS SLASHED

STOPPER WINSOME 8 LETTERS COMPARES GONDOLAS STRIDDEN SUBLIMES 11 LETTERS HODGEPODGES STANDARDISE

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No. 148

No. 148

No. 148

SPORT

Prelims pile on pressure

By David Ball

All four Yarra Glen netball teams played in the Preliminary final at Broadford on Saturday.

The day started with D Grade taking on Powelltown. The first half was a super competitive contest with just one goal separating the teams at half time, Powelltown leading 12 goals to Yarra Glen’s 11.

The third quarter saw the Demons assert themselves and with their lift in intensity, the Yarra girls staring missing their passes and shots at goal.

Powelltown added another 12 goals whilst Yarra Glen could only manage 4.

In a relatively even last quarter Yarra Glen worked hard but couldn’t close the gap as Powelltown won the day, 31 to 20.

Best players were Sarah Matthew, Molly Kehoe and Kim Christian.

Yarra Glen B Grade played Broadford and got off to a great start to be leading 14 to 10 at quarter time. Georgia Crundale was very active as goalshooter, with CaseyWandin Collins providing great support. The second quarter saw Broadford lift and the double teaming of Georgia Crundale reduced her effectiveness.

Broadford had taken a 2 goal lead by half time and extended their lead to by 7 early in the third. Some positional changes and the introduction of Alex Bray as goal attack seemed to lift he Yarra girls as they powered to a 36 to 31 lead at the last break.

Yarra Glen maintained their lead for the first half of the last quarter but when Powelltown increased their pressure, the Yarra girls faltered, missing passes and shots at goal.

In a thrilling finish Broadford managed to hold onto a 2 goal margin to win 45 to 43.

Best players were Casey Wandin Collins, Georgia Crundale and Meaghan Carter.

Yarra Glen A Grade were also playing Broadford.

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They started poorly, turning the ball over and struggling to put pressure on the Broadford shooters. Broadford scored 5 goals before Yarra Glen got their first and at quarter time Broadford led 20 to 11. In a great second quarterYarra Glen reduced the margin to just 1 goal at half time having added 17 goals to Broadford’s 9.

Alana McCurgan was dominating in the centre as Brooke McCurgan was great in defence. In a tight third quarter Yarra Glen were able to take a 1 goal lead into the last quarter.

The Yarra girls played excellent netball in the last against a quality opponent and in outscoring Broadford by 4, their 5 goal victory sees them moving into next week’s Grand Final.

Final score Yarra Glen 56 to Broadford 51.

Best players were Alana McGurgan, Maddy Hargrave and Gemma Ryan.

Yarra Glen Netball C grade played in the last game of the day, very keen to make amends for a disappointing semi-final performance.

Up against Powelltown they started well to be 12 to 6 up at quarter time.

Ash Shanks was lively in the centre and the goal shooters in Lauren Bull and Sarah Orlandi were converting well.

Powelltown started to improve and in a tight second quarter it was a goal for goal affair with Yarra Glen managing to extend their lead by just the 1 goal.

In the third quarter Yarra Glen showed why they finished on top to be 10 goals up at the last break.

Once again Powelltown matched it goal for goal with Yarra Glen but the Yarra girls proved to be too good, running out winners, 37 to 26.

Best players were Ash Shanks, Lauren Bull and Michele Young.

Yarra Glen A and C grade teams will take on Warburton-Millgove in Grand Finals to be played at Yarra Glen on Saturday

General Classifieds

Employment

MaddyHargrave(GS)andLaraWandinCollins.

Picture:JAYNEBASHFORD

SPORT Healesville snatches win to control its own destiny

By Anne-Marie Ebbels

The final home and away game meant travelling down the freeway to Hallam.

It was a must-win game for Healesville’s Senior Men’s team to ensure that they controlled their own destiny to make the finals and not rely on other results.

Hallam came out in the first quarter with nothing to lose and kicked three quick goals before Healesville scored a major.

Healesville hit back and in a high scoring first quarter went into quarter time five points down.

Healesville re-grouped at quarter time and made their move and kept Hallam scoreless in the second quarter and scored eight goals themselves to take control of the game.

A strong second half by Healesville saw them run out winners by 79 points with Sam Gebert finishing off in front of goal with 10 goals.

In Corey Lakey’s final game as coach for the Reserves, the team was keen to put in good performance to send him off.

Bolstered by the inclusion of a number of U17 players after their season ended the previous week, the Reserves got to work to put the win on the board.

After a tight first quarter, Healesville went into the first break eight points up.

The defence didn’t have to do much work for the remaining quarters as Healesville managed to keep Hallam goalless for the remaining three quarters and ran out winners

by 37 points.

The future for Healesville looks bright with the U17s being among the best players for the day.

Netball B Grade were in the game at quarter time being two goals down.

Hallam came out and put on a strong defensive game which awarded them a number of turnovers to extend their lead to eight goals at the half time break.

As they have all season B grade kept fighting until the final siren to go down by 22 goals.

After a close game against Hallam, a couple of weeks ago D Grade were determined to turn the tables on the result this time around.

The game was tight the from the first whistle with the teams going goal for goal.

Healesville went into the first break two goals up and maintained that in the lead through to three quarter time.

Neither team had a bench to call on for the game meant players were rotated on court in the third quarter to rest the centre players.

Healesville managed to hold their nerve and extend their lead with Connie Mecuri finishing off in goal scoring 29 of the 32 goals for the game.

Healesville ran out winners by five goals.

Next week the Senior Men’s team are playing Seville in the Elimination Final this week at Don Road starting at 2:10pm.

Football

· Men Seniors Healesville 147 defeated Hallam 68

· Best: S Gebert, B Wilsmore, T Amarant, D Plozza, N Mende, S Donkin

· Men Reserves Healesville 60 defeated Hallam 23 Best: T Barclay, B Rutley, C Boeder, L Warner, R Hargreaves, G Houlihan Netball

· B Grade: Healesville 24 defeated by Hallam 46

· Best: H Blackney, C Haywood, C Bouma

· D Grade: Healesville 32 defeated Hallam 27 Best: C Mecuri

Women sink main rivals

By Sarah Bailey

Healesville Senior Women 3, Dynamo 2

Playing the second-last game of the season, the Healesville Senior Women’s team was vying to secure second place on the ladder. The week also marked the last away game to contend with and a mammoth trip to Kensington: the team came up with some car-pool positive mantra tunes to bump along to!

Healesville came out with every ounce of enthusiasm against top-of-the-ladder Dynamo. The away team was coached from the goals by a phenomenal Maddie Campbell, who dove and defended some incredible shots while providing inspiration and advice to the field in front of her.

Captain Sarah Cunnian scored 2 impressive goals, and Melita Campbell added to the tally with another killer attacking goal.

Standout defenders Rachel Clark and Ava Holman did not miss a beat and merit equal women-of-the-match recognition.

Taking away a phenomenal 3-2 win (only the second loss of the season for the Dynamos) means Healesville’s senior women’s team now takes second for the season. In just their second season, the team should be super-proud of the winners they are!

Healesville U9 White Knights 1, Millgrove Vikings 0

The U9 White Knights won 1-0 against the Millgrove Vikings with a late goal from Noah, the Knights’ equal-best goal scorer for the season. It was a fair but intense battle played in good spirit.

Healesville U9 Redbacks 0, Knox 3

It was a challenging game away at Knox for the U9 Redbacks. Knox are a well-structured side and although the Redbacks managed to break through their midfield several times, the Knox final two in defence were too strong.

The U9s’ best chances came from Arlo after his left-foot rocket was miraculously saved. Later, an excellent free kick from Billy failed to convert after some goal-mouth entertainment. There were plenty of solid attacking breaks, but the Redbacks didn’t get the numbers forward to have more chances on goal. Final score: 3-0 to Knox.

Ash’s puppy, clearly feeling left out on the sidelines, also made his debut today!

Healesville U10 Reds 2, Croydon Ranges U10 Reds 4

A welcome late start at home, a full play list and a longer sleep-in helped the U10 Reds get off to a good start against Croydon Ranges when the whistle blew. Isaiah scored an early goal for the Reds, but we were 2-1 down at half-time. Great plays by Louie in midfield and a goal for Ryan kept us in the game. A highlight of the match was Isla’s strong defending, with the occasional sprint into attack, which rattled the opposition boys. It was the best the Reds

have played all season. Wonderful to see them having so much fun!

Healesville U10 Whites 1, Lilydale Eagles 5

The cool morning promised to bloom into a magnificent day as the U10Whites hosted Lilydale at home at Don Road. The Eagles started the scoring early and continued to score 2 more to effect the mercy ruling within the first half.

The Whites strove to penetrate the Lilydale Eagles’ backline. The Eagles’ forwards seemed to read the Whites’ early play of a large kick from the keeper, and they positioned themselves next the centers to create a formidable wall, which ensured turnover at regular intervals.

The half-time break enabled a change of plan to exit the back half and the momentum began to build for theWhite wolves. Seeing the ball move with a lot more freedom, the wingers were brought into the game for Healesville, Arthur leading the surge with great support from Will. Flynn M ran a great deal in defence, providing solid clearance kicks from our defensive half. Evan as always engaged with speed and ran to generate some panic in the Lilydale Eagles forward pressure.

The biggest cheer from the home side was for Austin, who read a backline pass with precision to perfectly time his run, turn, and volley a blinder.

It was a strong performance from the Eagles, and their dominant player, No. 9, drew appreciation from all in attendance by launching a huge running bomb not too far past the halfway mark to score a goal.

The Whites will take the momentum of the second half into next week and go out to secure a victory in our final game of 2023.

Healesville U12s 0, Blackburn Servals U12s 4After 10 minutes an excellent Blackburn team had scored three unanswered goals. Healesville shook off the cobwebs and a noticeable shift in intensity meant the remainder of the game was a fairly even contest, though Blackburn was still slightly stronger. Healesville had a few half-chances, but Blackburn would score the only other goal of the game to finish with a 4-0 win.

Healesville Seniors 1, Knox 3

The first 30 minutes saw Healesville second to the ball against a youthful Knox team, but a few big tackles saw Healesville lift for the final 15 minutes of the first half to get into the game.

The second half started as the first finished with Healesville on the front foot. Pressing high up their home pitch, Healesville started to create chances and finally got on the score sheet with a 30-yard volley from Brian Winrow with 10 minutes left. Healesville pushed for an equaliser and John Caloutas went close with a shot just over the bar. Unfortunately, with two minutes left Knox broke away to ice the game and head home with a 3-1 victory. Healesville Reserves 1, Knox 5

Healesville’s Reserves were hosting a Knox team that had won their previous 15 games and topped the table by more than 15 points. In their last meeting Knox were 9-0 victors, so expectations for Healesville were low. But an amazing first-half performance topped off by an overhead left-foot finish by Steve ‘Soupie’ Campbell saw the game tied at 1-1 at half-time.

Another tight 10 minutes to start the second half clearly had the Knox side rattled, but a fortuitous goal was followed by another 3 for Knox as a tiring Healesville team struggled to run the game out. A huge, positive performance from Healesville’s Reserves was a sign of how much the team has improved throughout the season.

The victorious U9 White Knights.

Pictures: SUPPLIEDThe victorious women’s team.

The U9 Redbacks and their canine mascot.

The women’s team at half-time.

Brandon Murphy laying a tackle.

Picture: KYLIE ROWE

SPORT

Burras are beaten, ending campaign

By Alex Woods

Six out of seven teams already secured their Grand Final spot last weekend, so it was over to Broadford for Warburton’s footy seniors to take on Powelltown.

It was a nice day, the sun was shining and about 16 degrees. The game started at 2.10pm and was a strong start for the boys.

Strong defence and converting it on the scoreboard. They looked strong and had a quarter time score of 3.3-21 to 1.0-6. The second quarter was much more towards Powelltown’s way with them kicking 7 goals and 6 behinds to the Burras 1 goal 4 behinds.

Half time came around and it was time for a break and reset. Powelltown used their big bodies and finals experience to gain more of a lead in the third quarter, Warby scored 3.1 to Powelltown’s 6.8.

Unfortunately, Powelltown had the momentum and a strong lead heading into the last term with a score of 50-98.

Warby managed to secure a couple of more goals onto the scoreboard to finish but Powelltown was too strong on the day.

Tom Barr and Jack Farrugia secured two goals each, while Tyson Henry, Pat Huynh, Brady Mitchell, Blake Muir, Josh Sharp and Liam Westlake all contributed one each.

Timothy McKail, James Iacono, Harry Rothwell, Tom Barr, Dale Morris and Josh Sharp were all named top performers for the game.

Unfortunately this is the end of the year for the senior boys, but the club still has six games to go on Saturday with 17’s, D, C B and A Grade netball all playing for the 2023 Premiership and Reserves Footy also trying to go back to back.

Good luck to all teams Saturday, which is all being played at Yarra Glen from 9am. Go Burras!

Horse Talk

By Anita Prowse

Very exciting times at the Wesburn Park Equestrian area coming up.

The Melba Equestrian Club (named after resident Dame Nellie Melba) are running a Dressage event on the 23rd September at our beautiful grounds.

Showcasing a huge FEI programCDN-CH (Children), CDN-J (junior), CDN-P (Pony), CDN-Y (Young Rider), CDN-U25 (Under 25 GP), CDN1* (Small Tour), CDN3* (Big Tour)

EA Preliminary, Novice and Elementary Freestyles offered at all levels.

Entry link below https://equestrian-hub.com/athlete/ show/17879

This will be a fabulous event for spectators as well as competitors, and one we don’t often get to see so close to home. A canteen will be running and coffee van on site for refreshments, a great day out for all the “horse-mad” children (and adults).

Freestyle is always amazing to watch! We wish them success in their first event here and look forward to more high class events available in the Yarra Valley. Happy riding everyone!

Good scores all round, but especially from Sheargold

By Ron Hottes

Wednesday 23 August

After a “dump” of rain the previous day, the course was in very good condition, with the greens being especially friendly to any wellplaced approach shot.

Clearly, the member who had his approach shots “on-song” was Warren-Sheargold, who returned a very healthy---37 points.

This meant that Warren took home the BGrade voucher.

Good result, Waz!

The B-Grade R/up was Matthew-Maloney, just 1 point behind.

You’re improving, Matt.

Balls in this Grade extended only to 32.

In A-Grade, Phil “Senior” Garside won the prize with a neat 36 points.

Great job, Phillip.

The A-Grade runner up was Mr. Consistent, Kenneth-White, who posted a 34-point round. Balls for this Grade got all the way down to 30.

The four NTP winners were as follows: MaxCarvill, (3rd), Ross-Machar, (9th), SteuartHawke, (12th) and to Allan “Old Man River” Hubbard, (15th).

Saturday 26 August

4-Person Ambrose -14 teams contested today’s event.

There were a number of very good Nett scores posted, but the outstanding result came from the team comprised of - Peter and Danny Fox, Roger-Mataele and Sam-Dennis.

Their score of Nett 55.12 beat the runner up

After a “dump” of rain the previous day,the course was in very good condition.

by, wait for it, 13. Peter-Whitehead, Ken-White, Paul-Osbourne & David-Hatt therefore recorded a Nett 55.25. Talk about a photo finish.

The ball rundown was not recorded on this day, but there were extra individual winners.

NTP’s went to Wayne-Ball, (3rd), Sam-Dennis, (5th & 12th — probably got your team over the line, Samuel) and to Ken-White

(15th).

The A-Grade straightest drive went to guest, Una Raymond Hoey, and in B-Grade to RogerMataele. The longest drive prizes were won by guest, Tom-Rogers, in A-Grade, and by LeeCreedy, (B-Grade).

Picture: SUPPLIED

Warburton-Millgrove Football Club’s captain Tim McKail. Picture: SUPPLIED

The Melba Equestrian Club (named after resident Dame Nellie Melba) are running a Dressage event. Picture: SUPPLIED

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