Mail - Lilydale Star Mail - 10th October 2023

Taking to the track

Yarra Ranges Athletics kicked off its summer track and field season on Saturday 7 October, seeing many little athletes step onto Morrison Reserve.

From running, jumping and throwing, it was a fun filled, energetic day for the young, aspiring athletes.

The senior athletes travelled to Moorabbin for the first round of the AVSL competition, seeing a number of people take to the track for the very first time, with some excellent finishes to celebrate.

Turn to sport on page 39 to read the full report

Flooding havoc

From bushfires in the east to flooding in the outer east, heavy forecast rain sent ripples of worry through the Yarra Ranges yet again with flood warnings issued for the first week of October.

Memories of last year’s October floods that caused havoc throughout the region could not be matched by the most recent spring downpour but did see theYarra River burst its banks.

The State Control Centre (SCC) upped its flood warning from minor to moderate on

Wednesday 4 October for all the townships along the Yarra River from Millgrove down to Coldstream and all the way to Warrandyte.

An SCC spokesperson said their message for the high-risk season is to always be prepared, but not alarmed; based on the current climate outlook.

“Motorists need to be extra vigilant on the roads for debris including fallen trees. As we are also expecting heavy rain in some parts of Victoria, consider your need to travel, and

Matthews Funerals

consider where you are travelling, if it is in heavily treed areas of the state, whilst this weather passes given the significant risk of falling trees,” they said.

Caution of a different kind has also been issued by Parks Victoria heading into the prime camping season, with a number of unattended campfires detected over the AFL grand final long weekend.

“One of our biggest problems with fire escapes is people leaving campfires unattended

and then all of a sudden, a bit of a bit of wind comes up locally and it takes off into the forest - that’s a big problem for us,” Chris Mercier, manager of enforcement operations, Parks Victoria said.

“You have to be within at least 50 meters or line of sight - you have to be able to see the fire and there has to be an adult in charge of the fire.”

To read more about both stories, turn to page 3 and 5

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

High flooding alert

By Callum Ludwig

The State Control Centre (SCC) upped its flood warning from minor to moderate on Wednesday 4 October for all the townships along the Yarra River from Millgrove down to Coldstream and all the way to Warrandyte.

At 11.58am, a VicEmergency alert confirmed an average of 89mm of rainfall was recorded in the upper part of the catchment and about 34mm in the lower part since 9am Tuesday 3 October.

An SCC spokesperson said their message for the high-risk season is to always be prepared, but not alarmed; based on the current climate outlook.

“Motorists need to be extra vigilant on the roads for debris including fallen trees. As we are also expecting heavy rain in some parts of Victoria, consider your need to travel, and consider where you are travelling, if it is in heavily treed areas of the state, whilst this weather passes given the significant risk of falling trees,” they aid.

“We are asking Victorians to prepare now. The best way to prepare is to know your local risk.”

When the alert was issued, the Yarra River between Coldstream and Millgrove recorded a depth of 3.56m, under the Minor Flood Level of 4m but was expected to rise to a Moderate Flood Level at as much as 5.1m overnight.

The Yarra River between Coldstream and Warrandyte was also set to hit above its Moderate Flood Level, initially recorded below the Minor Flood Level (4.1m) at 2.79m but potentially rising to as high as 4.6m overnight.

The Yarra River to Millgrove and the Watts River through Healesville were also expected

to peak at or around their Minor Flood Level overnight.

Residents were urged to never enter floodwaters, either on foot or in a vehicle.

Victoria Police was required to help save a man who needed assistance in floodwaters in Alexandra on 3 October.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said it was believed the man was on a tractor attempting to rescue cattle around 8.35pm when he got into difficulty and was surrounded by water.

“Victoria Police Search and Rescue Squad –Swift Water Rescue Team were able to successfully rescue man,” they said.

“The 43-year-old Alexandra man was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.”

Substantial inundation was to be expected, including disruption to traffic. In particular, the Melba Highway at Yarra Glen was expected to be impacted by floodwaters while Settlement Road and Corduroy Road in Yarra

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

Junction were already closed on Wednesday 4 October. Flooding above the floor level of a single-story home was expected in some areas, causing a sense of dejà vu after last Octobers floods in the area.

Residents were asked to decide if they would need to evacuate if necessary, making sure gas and electricity were off at home and making sure they were aware of road closures before they set out to the homes of friends or family who were away from the flooding.

For those who stayed or for whom it was unsafe to leave, advice to have stored enough food, drinking water, medications and pet food to survive for three to five days in case of isolation was given.The of use plugs, sandbags or household items to block toilets, sinks and drains to stop sewerage backflow and move valuable or vital household items to high surfaces or avoid damage, even if just on top of a table, chair, bench or bed.

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.

Search for Kane

Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate Kane Spencer.

The 45-year-old is wanted on warrants in relation to theft of a motor vehicle, theft from a motor vehicle, dealing in proceeds of crime and possession of cannabis.

Spencer is described as being of Caucasian appearance, having a fair complexion, approximately 180cm tall with a thin build and brown and grey hair and beard.

He is known to frequent the Greensborough, Scoresby, Ferntree Gully, Rowville, and Coldstream areas.

Investigators have released an image of Spencer in the hope someone may be able to provide information on his current whereabouts.

Anyone with other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

AFL weekend policing

More than 5000 offences were detected by Victoria Police during Operation Scoreboard over the AFL Grand Final long weekend.

The operation saw police targeting highrisk driving behaviour, with a particular focus on drink and drug driving.

The total 5,483 offences detected included 2341 speeding offences, 213 drink driving offences, 130 drug driving offences, 352 disqualified/suspended and unlicenced drivers and 489 unregistered vehicles.

Sadly, as many people were out celebrating, it was a tragic weekend with four lives lost in separate collisions.

That brings Victoria’s total road toll to 217 this year, already 30 more than the same time frame in 2022.

With warmer weather upon us, Victoria police urge everyone to remain vigilant on our roads, take extra care and share the road - particularly with more people out walking, riding and driving.

For more on how to stay safe on the roads visit www.police.vic.gov.au/road-safety

Charges after alleged evade Knox Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man following a pursuit in the eastern suburbs last week.

It is alleged police spotted a 2017 Mercedes Benz Sedan driving erratically on Grandvalley Drive on Friday October 6 around 8.15pm.

Police attempted to intercept the car, but it took off travelling at a fast rate of speed, at times allegedly travelling on the wrong side of the road on Maroondah Highway.

It is believed the sedan drove past a number of vehicles while allegedly driving erratically.

With Air Wing assisting, officers followed the vehicle through Chirnside Park before stop sticks were successfully activated and the vehicle came to a stop.

The driver of the vehicle, a 36-year-old Ringwood East man, was arrested at the scene and has been charged with theft of motor vehicle, dangerous driving while pursued by police and reckless conduct endangering life.

He was remanded to appear at the Ringwood Magistrates’ Court yesterday, 9 October.

Anyone with dashcam footage from 6 October on the Maroondah Highway in Chirnside Park between 8.30pm-9pm is asked to contact Crime Stoppers.

Say yes!

Police had to rescue a man from floodwaters in Alexandra on Tuesday 3 October.

Picture: VICTORIA POLICE

The Yarra River in Warburton is already high on Wednesday 4 October.

Picture: SIMONE WHITEHEAD

Sparkies sue for $19K unpaid wages

The Fair Work Ombudsman has commenced legal action against the operators of a Melbourne-based electrical services company that specialises in home automation systems.

Facing court is Integrated Technologies Australia Pty Ltd, which is based at Kilsyth South, and the company’s sole director, Michael John Andrews.

The regulator investigated after receiving requests for assistance from two electricians the company employed for various periods between January 2019 and February 2022. One of the workers was an adult apprentice.

A Fair Work Inspector issued Compliance Notices to Integrated Technologies Australia in June and October 2022 after forming a belief that the workers had been underpaid overtime, annual leave and (with respect to one worker) payment-in-lieu-of-notice-of-termination entitlements.

These were entitlements under the Fair Work Act’s National Employment Standards, the Electrical, Electronic and Communications Award 2010 and the Electrical, Electronic and Communications Award 2020.

It is alleged that the workers are owed a combined total of more than $19,000.

The Fair Work Ombudsman alleges Integrated Technologies Australia, without reasonable excuse, failed to comply with the Compliance Notices, which required it to calculate and back-pay the workers’ entitlements. Mr Andrews was allegedly involved in the contraventions.

Fair Work Ombudsman Anna Booth said the regulator would continue to enforce workplace laws and take businesses to court where

The Fair Work Ombudsman has started legal action against a Kilsyth South electrical services company.

lawful requests are not complied with.

“Where employers do not comply, we will take appropriate action to protect employees. A court can order a business to pay penalties in addition to back-paying workers.”

“Any employees with concerns about their pay or entitlements should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free assistance,” Ms Booth said.

The FWO is seeking penalties in court for the alleged failure to comply with two Compliance Notices. Integrated Technologies Australia faces penalties of up to $33,300 per contravention and Mr Andrews faces penalties of up

Rates hold

By Gabriella Vukman

Despite inflation rising to 5.2 per cent in August, homeowners rejoice at the Reserve Bank of Australia’s decision to hold interest rates at 4.1 percent as per their announcement on October 3.

New Governor of the RBA Michele Bullock who took over from Phillip Lowe last month, did not however leave the notion of further hikes out of the picture.

“Some further tightening of monetary policy may be required to ensure that inflation returns to target in a reasonable timeframe, but that will continue to depend upon the data and the evolving assessment of risks,” Ms Bullock said.

“In making its decisions, the board will continue to pay close attention to developments in the global economy, trends in household spending, and the outlook for inflation and the labour market.”

With the national debt hotline reporting heightened distress calls and the reported overall lowering of inflation since the peak period of December 2022, the decision to stagnate interest rates did not come as a complete surprise.

Picture: UNSPLASH

to $6,660 per contravention.

The regulator is also seeking an order for the company to take the steps set out in the Compliance Notices, which includes rectifying the alleged underpayments amount in full, plus interest and superannuation.

A directions hearing is listed in the Federal Circuit and Family Court in Melbourne on 26 February 2024.

Employers and employees can visit www. fairwork.gov.au or call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 for free advice and assistance about their rights and obligations in the workplace. An interpreter service is available on 13 14 50.

All four of Australia’s big banks (Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, Nab and ANZ) predicted the prevailing of the 4.1 per cent mark, however, due to hold ups in the labour market such as productivity costs, inflation levels may take longer than anticipated to curb.

Currently the RBA is aiming to reach the annual consumer price inflation target of two-three per cent as soon as possible.

While those with home loans are celebrating the stay on interest rates, a hike in retiree spending may be a reflection of those benefiting from heightened interest rates.

Campfire caution urged

By Tanya Steele

As warmer weather draws people into parks and forests for the spring camping season Conservation Regulator and Parks Victoria are asking campers to follow public land rules for the good of all.

Authorised officers from both agencies patrolled over the long weekend targeting unsafe and unattended campfires, illegal off-road vehicle use, and littering.

Wayne Robins, acting chief conservation regulator said it’s critical for safety and for the environment that you always have eyes on your campfire.

“Drive only on open, formed roads, and take your rubbish home with you,” he said.

Over the 2022 extended Grand Final long weekend, more than 30 unattended or illegal campfires were detected, and authorised officers handed out nearly 30 fines to people caught committing campfire, vehicle, or other public land offences.

Chris Mercier, manager of enforcement op-

erations, ParksVictoria said he hopes everyone enjoyed the long weekend around the campfire.

“Just remember to keep it safe by using designated campfire or barbecue bays in national and state parks, because fire safety is everyone’s responsibility,” he said.

Mr Mercier said that leaving campfires unattended is illegal and you need to be in attendance at a campfire at all times.

“One of our biggest problems with fire escapes is people leaving campfires unattended and then all of a sudden, a bit of a bit of wind comes up locally and it takes off into the forest - that’s a big problem for us,” he said.

“You have to be within at least 50 meters or line of sight - you have to be able to see the fire and there has to be an adult in charge of the fire,” he said.

Campfire etiquette also includes not throwing rubbish that won’t break down into the pits – there are many potentially devastating effects on the environment and the public’s per-

sonal safety if people don’t respect the rules.

“Glass particularly, doesn’t break down and that also ends up being a hazard for other people,” Mr Mercier said.

Campers also need to remember to adhere to total fire ban days as warm, dry weather brought by an El Nino weather pattern has increased bushfire risk this season.

Preparation is key and campers should prepare before lighting a campfire by learning how to build and maintain a safe campfire before leaving home, following campsite specific rules, checking weather conditions and fire danger ratings and having quick access to at least three buckets of water.

Mr Mercier said people coming out into the parks should respect other visitors and campers as well as being safe - being prepared for a lack of phone reception, checking whether you can bring pets or not and bringing enough water can be things to consider.

“People come to these places to get away from the city and they want to have a peaceful

experience,” he said.

Off-road drivers and riders must have a valid licence and vehicle registration and stick to open, formed roads – many roads and tracks on public land are still seasonally closed to prevent damage during the wetter months and it is a serious offence to use them while closed.

Visitors should check for any road or track closures before they leave home: mapshare. vic.gov.au/mapsharevic/

Brushing up on camping and campfire skills is available through Parks Victoria’s step-bystep online guides and video series: parks.vic. gov.au/where-to-stay/camping-for-beginners

Anyone caught with an unsafe campfire, illegally driving off-road, or leaving rubbish behind can face fines ranging between $192 and $46,154. The community can also help report any illegal behaviour on public land to 136 186.

Bushfires should be reported to 000.

“We want people to come out to enjoy these areas, bring the family and have a barbecue, just do it safely,” Mr Mercier said.

ChrisMercier,managerofenforcementoperations,ParksVictoriaatBunyipStateParkoutsideofGembrook.

Picture:TANYASTEELE

Checkingweatherupdatesandbeingpreparedcanmakeforasafeand enjoyableexperienceforall.

Picture:PARKSVICTORIA

Campaigners brave rain

By Callum Ludwig

With early voting for the referendum on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament having opened, campaigners for both sides are out in force.

Braving the pouring rain on Tuesday 3 October, a representative for both the Yes and No campaigns could be found outside the Darron Honey Centre in Healesville with signs, brochures and an umbrella on hand.

No campaigner Joanne van Wageningen said to make her decision, she did the reading and research while also listening to what people had to say.

“I have a piece of paper here which says that there are like 55 legitimate organisations that deal and help with the Indigenous folk from all walks of life and we have 11 Indigenous parliamentarians, so I really don’t think it’s necessary to have a Voice,” she said.

“For them to be acknowledged as people who are here, that’s one thing, but I guess I am certainly concerned that if this Voice passes, we are going to live with a lot of repercussions and things that are not going to be good for the country as a whole.”

On top of the 11 Indigenous Australians in the Federal Parliament, there are another 15 state and territory MPs throughout Australia. Only one of those is from Victoria, Labor MP for the Northern Metropolitan region and Yorta Yorta woman Sheena Watt.

Two current Federal Senators for Victoria are also Indigenous; Former Greens Deputy Leader and now Independent Lidia Thorpe who is of DjabWurrung, Gunnai and Gunditjmara descent and Labor’s Jana Stewart who is of Muthi Muthi and Wemba-Wemba descent.

Ms van Wageningen said she tried to make her decision by starting with an open mind.

“My initial gut feeling was no, but then I had to do the research and actually follow that up with proof of what was right,” she said.

“I think fair enough that they were the first people here and if what they desire is an acknowledgement, sure, but whether it’ll have an effect, I don’t really know,”

“Voters should read the Uluru Statement from the Heart, it’s said to be one page but I would encourage people to go and read the other 20 plus pages that are attached to it, which the current government calls misinformation, but it’s there in black and white.”

The length of the Uluru Statement from the Heart was hotly debated in the Federal Parliament and the media in August after Sky News host Peta Credlin claimed to have‘exposed’ the 25 additional pages in her program on 3 August.

RMIT University and the authors of the statement including law professor Megan Davis are among those who have since come out and disputed that claim.

The 26 pages claim came from the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) releasing them as part of a Freedom of Information request in March this year; with one page being the final Uluru Statement from the Heart and the other 25 being background information, history and excerpts from regional dialogues that informed the Uluru Statement

from the Heart.

The pages have been publicly available for some time forming part of the 112 pages of meeting minutes from the 2017 Final Report of the bipartisan Referendum Council.

Ms van Wageningen said campaigners can often tell which early voters are going to vote no or vote yes.

“There’s no interaction, there are a lot of people who already know what they’re doing, they don’t ask either of us, but they know what

they’re doing, they’re set, they’re ready to go,” she said.

“Within the last two years I have become political whereas I have never been political before in my entire life, it is the current political situation, the landscape at the moment.”

Dr Bob Rich, who also volunteered for the Victorian Greens in the Eildon electorate’s early voting in last year’s state election, was representing the Yes vote in Healesville.

Dr Rich said he is involved because he is for decency.

“I want justice and redress for all the past times for our First Nations people, they have asked for in the Uluru statement for three things; Voice, Treaty and truth,” he said.

“Truth is absolutely necessary, Treaty should come first except it’s incredibly complex because there are hundreds of First Nations communities, so The Voice has to come first in order to establish something that can negotiate with their serving government.”

Dr Rich said he has met and respects Professor Tom Calma AO, a Chancellor of the University of Canberra and 2023 Senior Australian of the Year, who has publicly supported The Voice to Parliament and helped him make his decision.

Dr Rich said he also started with an open mind. “I’m in the Greens and was part of deciding that we would support The Voice, I felt it was that the right thing to do as a matter of decency,” he said.

“The sun always shines, just sometimes there is something in the way.”

No vote campaigner Joanne van Wageningen. Pictures: CALLUM LUDWIG

Yes vote campaigner Dr Bob Rich.

Scouting back in

By Mikayla van Loon

Scouting in Montrose has returned after a long hiatus in the suburb and is off to a flying start, seeing many little people take up the challenge.

Having originally had its own scouting group many years ago, it had to fold due to low participation numbers.

Merging with Mount Evelyn for a time helped keep the scout hall in Montrose alive but Mount Dandenong region assistant commissioner Tim Whitehead said throughout the pandemic the property sat vacant for a few years.

“Coming out of Covid and late last year, I suppose the wheels got turning on what we could do and how we could do it to create the Montrose Scout Group,” he said.

“It was a really simple decision that we had a scout hall in Montrose with no scouts in it and that needed to change because every other scout hall we have around the state is full of kids taking part in the adventurous, fun, challenging and inclusive program.”

With the help of the state government, Mr Whitehead said the hall was able to be renovated to ensure the facilities were up to standard and then all that was needed were the children.

“Mid August was our launch date and we gathered enough interest to start both Joey’s and Cubs, with five or six kids starting in each, which was fantastic,” Mr Whitehead said.

“Since then, we’ve had lots of interest.We’ve got four brand new leaders who have joined.. We’ve got about 15 kids on the book now with more kids interested in coming along in the next few weeks for a trial and it’s all systems go.”

Deciding to just offer Joeys for ages five to eight and Cubs for ages eight to 11 at this stage, Mr Whitehead said over the next few years

there are hopes of growing to offer Scouts,Venturers and Rovers.

Over the first few weeks of sessions, Mr Whitehead said there’s been science experiments, learning about flight and fire, as well as an official ceremony to induct the kids as part of Scouts.

“We’ve had a fire night where all the kids

learnt fire safety, how to strike a match, how to create the perfect campfire, how to roast marshmallow, but also how to be safe around out what to do if something goes wrong with fire at home, “We’ve had bush walks around the local community in the Montrose Recreation Reserves, which has been fantastic and we’ve also

had a session on the history of scouting, which has been really good for the kids to understand why scouts do what we do.”

The resurgence of scouting in Montrose and its popularity Mr Whitehead said he expects comes from a mix of things, particularly post-pandemic with parents and children looking to socialise but also build resilience.

In May 2020 Scouts Australia facilitated a survey to better understand resilience among its participants and found scouts are more likely to enjoy school, have better social skills and be able to solve problems rather than quit.

“They’re also more likely to feel they want to make a positive contribution to their community as opposed to others so there’s a range of reasons why Scouts is still popular.

“Even though it’s been around for 100 years, it’s still relevant in the community, the adventurous activities from canoeing to rock climbing and abseiling or even camping, they’re still relevant.

“If it’s 1907 when Scouts started, or 2023, the community is still there, there’s still people in the community that need help and there’s still the want of the kids who want to be involved and active members of their local community.”

Looking to grow, MrWhitehead said“there’s not really any limitations” on numbers as long leaders keep coming on board.

“We would love to see anyone and everyone, we’re a fully inclusive organisation so it doesn’t matter what your abilities or your previous knowledge is,

“We will take anyone who has a history of being a scout, has a history of being in the outdoor recreation area, but also people in the community who are just interested in being involved.”

Anyone interested in joining or finding out more can contact gl.montrose@scoutsvictoria. com.au

Live the beautiful life, in a beautiful community

Tucked away in the peaceful grounds of Walmsley Retirement Village, our aged care residence offers first-class care and support to our local community.

Drop by for morning tea at Walmsley Aged Care. Happening each Thursday during November between 10.00 a.m. and 12.00 p.m. Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or a loved one, our Aged Care Specialists will be on hand to answer questions, provide insights into aged care and offer a guided tour.

Morning Tea & Aged Care Chat

With a small household model, landscape gardens, amenities such as gym, hair salon, theatre, café and a community library, we ensure it’s all about experience with the environment and being connected to your community.

Contact Sue Van Velzen at 0475 144 575.

Camping is just one of the things the Montrose Scout Group will get to experience.

Picture: UNSPLASH

Walking all the way from the city - for a good cause

By Mikayla van Loon

Walking 40 kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD to Lilydale in a day may seem somewhat strenuous but knowing it’s for a good cause makes it all worthwhile.

Lilydale Football Club’s over 50s coach Reece Thomas’ philosophy of using sport and active behaviour to have conversations about mental health inspires both his coaching and charity called Reach Out Bloke.

“Football is a space where people can find like minded people, everyone’s had a journey and struggles in their life,” he said.

“[They] find a space where they can be around other people of similar age and journeys, and just enjoy footy but also raise awareness about mental health and you’re not alone.”

The culmination of both resulted in Project ROB, where Reece and his friend Mike O’Dwyer hosted the first walk in 2019.

Meeting at LilydaleTrain Station at 6.30am on Friday 13 October, Reece said everyone is welcome to join from the start, as they take off from the city or meet along the way and do just part of the walk.

“We’ll walk all the way back to Lilydale and we estimate it to take about eight to 10 hours.

“Anyone can join us, or they can join us at certain points along the way, we’re walking the Cotham Road, Maroondah Highway

route so you could jump on at Box Hill or Mitcham, Nunawading or any of those train stations and then walk back with us.”

Checkpoints throughout the day include Kew Junction, Box Hill Central, Croydon and Chirnside Park Shopping Centre, finishing at

the Lilydale Football Club rooms at 5.30pm.

With 20 people already on board for the full 40km walk and more jumping on at some of the pit stops, Reece encourages everyone to walk and talk.

“We just encourage you to wear your footy gear or your club gear. Everyone’s welcome and any age, to be honest, we thought it would be a great thing to help people out there because everyone’s had a journey and a story to tell.”

Any donations received will go straight to the Black Dog Institute, an organisation the Lilydale over 50s team has supported before in a charity game.

“We raised the money for them, I think over $2,000, and it’s no different to what we’re doing now just helping each other out. Males and females.

“A lot of people have separated or had life journeys and tragedy in their lives and some people feel very isolated.

“We’ve got 31 great fellas, and we’ve created a really family, footy atmosphere. So everyone is supported and welcomed. It’s a great club. It’s been a great team and we’re just extending that to what we’re doing now.”

For more information, head to the Project ROB Facebook page, to find the route map and checkpoints or contact Reece on 0414 933 367.

A true can-do partnership

By Mikayla van Loon

An all-female-led partnership for This Girl Can week has brought about the culmination of a number of free and low-cost activities for the Yarra Ranges.

Inspiro, Yarra Ranges Council, Eastern Health, Belgravia Leisure, Reclink and Women’s Health East have joined together to host a range of events from 9 October to 15 October and on 19 October.

“This Girl Can is a VicHealth campaign which aims to address the barriers women, girls and non-binary people face when it comes to participating in physical activity and active recreation,” Health Promotion Officer at Eastern Health Casey Dykes said.

“So it’s about creating spaces for women, girls and non-binary people to feel comfortable and welcome to participate in physical activity.”

From an easy, casual group walk around Lillydale Lake on Thursday 12 October to low cost events at both Monbulk Aquatic Centre and the Yarra Centre and a come-and-try style afternoon for boxing, kayaking, dance and circuit exercise, there’s something for everyone to get involved in.

“We hope they feel empowered and comfortable to continue to participate in physical activity and active recreation,” Casey said.

“And have fun. Enjoy being active. Enjoy moving your body because they’re fundamental facts of health and well being, just having joy of movement,” Inspiro health promotion officer Megan McInerney said.

Knowing that women, girls and non-binary people often feel a sense of shame or embarrassment when it comes to exercise, these sessions aim to dissolve those feelings, as well as other barriers.

“It can be opportunity, it can be time, it can be fear of judgement, that cohort of people tend to often feel judged doing exercise in public,” Megan said.

“They don’t want to look sweaty, don’t want to look red, so it’s just really encouraging everybody in the community to enjoy being active, however, whenever, whatever that looks like for anybody, just to move their bodies.”

Eastern Health’s senior health promotion officer Emily Sykes said the pandemic also had a negative effect on some women regressing back into former gender stereotypes.

“An initiative like this is so important, especially after the last two years, where a lot of people retreated back into themselves,” she said.

“We saw a lot of traditional gender stereo-

and ways that people didn’t get involved with other sports and active rec outside of what they normally do.”

As the first time these organisations have come together for This Girl Can, Megan said the hope is it will continue and only get bigger each year.

“Hopefully it will be an ongoing partnership and we will work together to do more in the active rec space.

“It’s great that we’ve got a lot of really committed and proactive stakeholders together and we’re all committed to creating a really great event for all of the local women, girls and non-binary people in the community.”

of just the week of events, Casey said the collective organisations are looking to put together a guide on what groups, clubs and classes people can join.

“We are working on a resource that highlights those active recreation or physical activity options ongoing in our local area,” she said.

“We’ve broken it down into four different categories, Urban, Hills, Valley and Upper Yarra. We wanted to create a resource to help the impact to be ongoing in the community so that it’s not just a one off event.

“We want to keep that participation going because of the massive benefits that come out of active living, the social connection that peo-

lation and just build your community spirit.”

For the first 20 people who register for a session at the Yarra Centre, they will receive a showbag and anyone who completes an evaluation survey goes into the draw to win a massage voucher.

Just a $10 donation to the Belgravia Foundation gets you access to the classes at the Monbulk Aquatic andYarra Centre forThis Girl Can week, with the Yarra Centre also offering free creche.

All the event information can be found here, www.inspiro.org.au/news/inspiro-health-isproud-to-support-this-girl-can-victoria-2023/

The Lilydale Football Club’s over 50s team will be walking from the city to Lilydale for mental health awareness. Picture: SUPPLIED

Yarra Ranges Council’s Gabby Golds, Reclink’s Anthea Merson, Eastern Health’s Casey Dykes, Yarra Centre manager Leslie Crimes, Eastern Health’s Emily Sykes and Inspiro’s Megan McInerney have partnered for This Girl Can week. 365399 Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

CFA garage sale returns

By Mikayla Van Loon

Mount Evelyn Fire Brigade is bringing back its annual garage sale fundraiser and with less than a week until the event, the members are getting excited about being back in the community.

Brigade secretary Shaan Lewis said the last garage sale the CFA was able to host was in 2018 and was then interrupted by the pandemic.

“Traditionally, it has been our greatest, our biggest fundraiser of the year. We usually do a Bunnings sausage sizzle, then it’s our Australia Day carwash at the start of the year,” she said.

“So being able to have it again is a huge bonus for us because it also brings the community together and it’s a great way for people to catch up with each other as they haven’t seen each other for a while.”

Being held on Saturday 14 October, Shaan said as it is the day of the referendum, she hopes it will draw lots of people out to

support the brigade.

“We’re really hoping that people will go out and vote and then pop by the garage sale or vice versa, pop by the garage sale, and then go and vote.”

Although having to limit the range of donations this year, Shaan said donations are still required to help give the CFA enough to sell.

“Because of Covid everybody’s been cleaning out their houses and sheds in their basements to give themselves something to do during lockdown. So we have had a pretty slow run up to now. We’ve only got a week left.

“We have restricted what we would usually take because anything we don’t sell costs us money to dispose of so we’re only taking electrical items, white goods, plants, barbecue items, either barbecues themselves or anything that goes to the barbecue, tools, things like that.”

With the brigade’s ultra light tanker needing replacement in the near future, Shaan said the focus of the fundraising will be to raise enough

to upgrade the vehicle.

“Like most vehicles it has a shelf life as a random life and it’s rapidly approaching that now. So we’re fundraising this year to buy a new one and it costs over $150,000 to buy,” she said.

“We are specifically fundraising this year to purchase a new one outright so we don’t have to ask the CFA to subsidise that so any donations, any purchases from the garage sale will go straight to fund that ultra light tank.”

An ultra light tanker holds around 550 litres of water and is used to reach fires in places a normal tanker may not be able to get to, whether it be dense bush or on the Warburton Trail.

“Our current ultra light, which we got in about 2010 went up to Flowerdale earlier this year and it’s really good for country sides that can’t handle one of the big red trucks or can’t fit a big red truck through a gate.

“So we use it quite frequently and it’s really important to have in our fleet of vehicles.”

While the garage sale is primarily about fundraising, members are also looking forward to engaging with the community especially in the lead up to bushfire season.

“After three or four years of really hard slog with Covid and the bushfires of 2019/2020, we’re still here, we’re still protecting the community and with the garage sale back up and running, hopefully, things are getting back to normal,” Shaan said.

“Also, being able to help the community prepare for what’s going to be a really bad fire season. We’ve just seen what’s happened in Gippsland, over the last week or so and to provide that education for them and to answer any questions they might have about their property.”

The Garage Sale will get underway from 7am until 3pm on Saturday 14 October at the Mount Evelyn CFA fire station on York Road.

To organise a donation, contact garagesale@mtevelyncfa.org.au or call 0429 354 487.

The garage sale has always been one of the biggest fundraisers for the CFA brigade. Picture: ON FILE

Mount Evelyn’s fire station will be the host of the return of the annual garage sale fundraiser. 269079

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Pupils honour hero Ingram

By Callum Ludwig

Seville’s most honoured war hero was honoured on the anniversary of his bravest feat on Thursday 5 October, despite the recent vandalism of the Seville War Memorial.

The service for Captain George Ingram VC was relocated to the Seville Primary School’s memorial with all of the school’s students in attendance, listening intently and respectfully.

Chair of the Seville War Memorial Committee Anthony McAleer OAM opened the service and told students that were there to remember someone who settled in their township and did some very brave things.

“On this very day, exactly 105 years ago, the last battle of the war that involved soldiers from Australia happened in a village called Montbrehain in France and involved in this battle on this day was George Ingram from Seville who, like all of you, was a student at this school when he was a boy,” he said.

“George was to do some very great things in this battle, the village of Montbrehain had been invaded earlier by enemy soldiers, and it was the Australian soldiers’ job to rescue the poor villagers and to take back the village from the enemy.”

George Ingram was the 64th and last Australian to receive the Victoria Cross during World War One and also received a Military Medal for his acts of gallantry.

Sergeant Brendon de Schwartz from Lilydale Police said George Ingram was also a member of Victoria Police and became Victoria Police’s most decorated member.

“George became a soldier in his spare time, learning how to fire huge cannons of the big forts of Queenscliff and Point Nepean. When the First World War began, he decided to become a soldier full-time and was sent to a tropical island in the Pacific called Rebaul, where he was given the job of looking after the big cannons that guarded the harbour there,” he said.

“He was there for about a year when he became very sick with a tropical disease called malaria. He was so sick that he sent him back to Australia and told him he could not be a soldier anymore.”

Disappointed that he couldn’t be fighting in the war, especially as his younger brothers Alex and Ronald had gone off to fight, George Ingram changed his middle name, didn’t tell authorities that he had been ill and was sent to the Western Front.

Sgt de Schwartz said the war was a very sad time for George.

“He lost some very good friends who died fighting in the army and worst of all, both of his younger brothers were killed fighting in some of the horrible battles as well,” he said.

“Soon after the war ended, George returned home to his parents in Seville and the people of Seville were so proud of George that they gave him a special welcome home card at the public hall,”

“After the war, he joined the Shrine Guard, who are a special group of the Victoria Police force who look after the Shrine of Remembrance.”

Sadly, George Ingram’s panel at the Seville

War Memorial was one of two that was irreparably damaged by the recent vandalism incident.

Mr McAleer OAM told students about the day that earned George Ingram his Victoria Cross, where he and the other soldiers charged up the road towards the village while the enemy sheltered from bombs.

George Ingram and the other Australian soldiers overcame multiple enemy posts in their attack, sheltering behind an advancing tank at one point to progress further and then once again proceeding to reclaim the village.

George Ingram is believed to have killed at least 40 enemy soldiers in this encounter, while accounting for many more as others surrendered or were captured, including a house containing 30 soldiers which he captured himself.

Piper Iain Townsley and Bugler Tom Steele attended to play for the service and President of the Mt Evelyn RSL Matthew Crymble gave the Ode to the Fallen.

Sgt De Schwartz, assisted by Seville Primary School Captains Blake, Lily and Connor, and Mr Crymble each laid wreaths at the plaques to George Ingram at the entrance of the school.

Back: Anthony McAleer OAM (Seville War Memorial Committee), Iain Townsley (Piper), Sgt Brendon de Schwartz, Tom Steele (Bugler) and Matthew Crymble (President Mt Evelyn RSL). Front: School Captains Blake, Lily and Connor. 365211 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Seville Primary Schoool students recite ‘Lest We Forget’ 365211

President of the Mt Evelyn RSL Matthew Crymble laying a wreath. 365211

School students listening to Sgt Brendon de Schwartz speaking about George’s life. 365211

Big Hill invites locals in

By Dongyun Kwon

Big Hill is about to show up its beautiful landscape to give locals solace for only two days from 14 to 15 October.

This is only the second time the Christmas Hills garden has been opened publicly with the last opening being seven years ago.

Garden owner, landscape designer and builder Loretta Childs said she hoped visitors would be calm, relaxed and connected to nature in Big Hill.

“What struck me was people referred to the property as being incredibly calm, peaceful and bringing a lot of solace in the last time I opened it,” she said.

Big Hill is named after what was written in the old maps of the area.

The place is known to be the highest peak along the ridgeline where people look over the entire Yarra Valley.

The garden consists of several spaces; gardens, ponds, a dwelling, a swimming pool and a mid-construction area.

It has been a 20-year project to evolve with a main theme of being naturalistic and organic.

The garden has been designed harmoniously under the theme and built with recycled materials.

Visitors will see the harmony of old and new in the garden.

“People are going to see the complete garden of 20 years and then they are going to come into something just two weeks old,” Childs said.

The photos showing the process of evolution of the garden will be displayed on the event dates.

The garden also shows off its beauty with the amalgamation of different types of plants.

The plant palette is approximately 70 per cent native, 15 per cent indigenous and 15 per cent exotic.

“I am a native gardener but we do have exotics which have to be in the right place to keep the harmony of the garden,” Childs said.

The main dwelling is covered with Chinese wisteria floribunda and Japanese vitis coignetiae.

The combination of water and garden is another interesting point to pay attention to for visitors.

“Water is an important part of the landscaping in my garden because it brings so much habitat and relief in summer,” Childs said.

The rocks surrounding the main pond were designed to be off the ground for local wildlife to have a haven.

There is a hull of a damaged boat around one of the ponds which has a special story.

“It was made in post World War II to go up the river but it never made it then Montsalvat and my partner restored it over five years and

some unfortunate thing happened, the barn and the boat burnt down two weeks before launch,” Childs said.

Montsalvat is an artists’ colony in Eltham, where art in all its forms is made and taught, and art’s transformative power is celebrated in exhibitions, festivals, concerts, workshops and artists’ residencies.

Island Garden is the centre of where the property has been developed and the Veggie Garden is placed in it.

There is a special landmark, Staircase to Heaven which was sculpted by Jacki Staud, between the main pond and Island Garden.

The swimming pool, another space with water, is surrounded by basalt rock which Childs decided on where to place.

Childs said she had gardening DNA in her blood.

“My grandmother, mother and sisters are

all gardeners and we’ve all built beautiful gardens,” she said.

“A number of years ago, my two other sisters and myself had our own open garden tour because we all had acreage and a big garden.

“When we are in the garden, we are the happiest.”

Her blood gave her a passion for gardening which led her to get a certificate in landscape design and horticulture.

“Wherever I went, wherever I rented a house or wherever it was, I never ever stopped making a garden,” Childs said.

An open garden is an impetus to push herself to get on top of the garden again after a little neglect due to the family issues she had gotten through.

For more information, please visit opengardensvictoria.org.au/Big-Hill-2

Over 50s festival urges Yarra Ranges to learn, love, live

By Dongyun Kwon

The 2023 Over 50s Festival has lately lifted the curtain with the theme ‘Learn. Love. Live’ followed by over 100 events.

It is a statewide annual festival and Yarra Ranges has many local events from 1 to 31 October. Yarra Ranges Council Age-Friendly community officer April Paterson said a diverse range of activities would be offered by the council and local communities across the Shire.

“Things such as music, performances, art exhibitions, social bike rides, walking sports, arts and crafts,” she said.

The activities are rotating around the Shire which helps the seniors not to travel far to attend their chosen events.

There are two ways to look up the events list for people to find any interesting activities that would suit them.

“We have all of the events listed on Council’s website so people can pop onto the website and just search Over 50s and the event will be there,” Ms Paterson said.

“Alternatively, we also have a festival booklet available from all of our community links and local eastern regional libraries.”

One of the Council’s main events was launched on 28 September at the Lilydale Civic Centre.

17 local residents participated in Poetic Portraits which is available until the end of January 2024.

“Over the last few months, they have been working away on their poems which hadn’t been edited by a professional poet, then we’ve exhibited those along with a portrait taken by a local photographer Kathy Reynolds,” Ms Paterson said.

Ms Paterson recently had a conversation with members of Healesville U3A where she listened to the members who shared their recent interest in pickleball.

“It’s really great to see something like that thriving in the Healesville area,” she said.

“Eight members recently started playing pickleball at the Healesville High School Bas-

ketball Stadium and now it has 26 members and continues to grow.

“Someoftheparticipantsmayhaveplayed tennis or other sports in the past which are a little bit harder on the body as they get older whereas they don’t have to move around as much when they play pickleball.”

Living Stories Project is one of the significant upcoming events that Ms Paterson encourages locals to attend.

The event will feature stories of people from the Yarra Ranges with a lived and living experience of mental health challenges.

The attendees will have a chance to listen

to the stories by guest speakers on how they deal with the challenges with their own mental illness or caring for someone living with a mental illness followed by a Q&A session. It will start at 2pm on Saturday 14 October, located at Japara Neighbourhood House, 5458 Durham Road Kilsyth.

Garden owner, landscape designer and builder Loretta Childs invites locals to come over to Big Hill for a day out.

Pictures: DONGYUN KWON

Staircase to Heaven.

Poetic Portraits exhibition is one of the main events for the Over 50s Festival in Yarra Ranges, marking the beginning of the festival. Picture: ON FILE History of the Dandenongs.

Picture: SUPPLIED How to make a Succulent Wreath.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Over 50s Social Tennis at Mooroolbark Heights Tennis Club. Picture: SUPPLIED

Over 50s Festival is a statewide annual event during October and Yarra Ranges has many local events. Picture: ON FILE

Alistair’s legacy lives on

By Mikayla van Loon

Alistair Whyte - friend, mentor, teacher, father, husband, master potter.

Known and respected for his passion, willingness to pass on knowledge and kind-heartedness, Alistair died on 5 June after a long battle with a rare bone marrow cancer, myeloma fibrosis.

But his legacy and memory lives on in the many people he befriended and taught the art of pottery to and will continue to do through his posthumous book ‘Turning Inside Out: From Australian Potter to Master of Japanese Ceramics’.

“It’s something he always wanted to do and he had so much knowledge…he really wanted to share his knowledge and his background is in teaching. He was also a qualified arts and Japanese teacher so he really loved to teach,” Alistair’s daughter Emi Whyte said.

“There’s not many potters in Australia who had the level of expertise my dad did in Japanese and especially Kyoto style ceramics.”

Launching the beautifully crafted book on 16 September in Warburton, Alistair’s hometown, Emi said it brought together people who had been touched by her father’s warm heart, some she had never met before.

“We had the opening to celebrate dad’s life and also have space for a lot of his friends to come together,” she said.

“To also have an open conversation about the memories and how he worked with people in the local community for such a long time because I think it would have been over 40 years in Warburton.”

It took Alistair five years to put the book together right through the worst of his illness, telling the story of his early life and his philosophy in making pottery.

“He had palliative care at home in Warburton, so it was four months of palliative care and it was quite intense but he was able to review the last draft and I helped him to make lots of final edits.

“The day he passed away was actually the day the final copies arrived in Australia. So there’s a beauty to it and also a sadness because I guess some of us felt like he was holding on until it was finally finished.”

Learning the art of pottery first at Bendigo TAFE and then studying for three years at the esteemed Kyoto City University of Arts under the guidance of master potter Hirokuni Katsuno, it was here that Alistair learnt the art of observation, stillness, fluidity and calmness.

It was these skills he would later pass onto his students in Alli Duckworth and Karen Goldsmith, best friends who 20 years ago asked Alistair if he ever gave lessons.

“I also teach now, and when I am teaching students, it’s the skills he has taught me and that’s really nice to be able to pass it on,” Alli said.

“He was incredibly passionate about passing on the knowledge and passing on those skills because he knew he had a really special kind of knowledge base that not many people in Australia have.”

Alli said for her Alistair “changed my life”, showing her the Japanese style of ceramics but also “how we can have our own voice within our own pottery” as both“a teacher and a master but also a friend”.

It was those years of friendship Karen said she remembered most, of driving to Warburton from Croydon every Friday to find Alistair working away.

“My favourite time was just walking into the studio and he always had the radio on and lights were on,” she said.

“The kettle went on first and we just chatted about how the week was and just how things were going and then got stuck into work.”

Aside from being taught the practical skills of pottery and tool making, Alli and Karen said it was the lessons of never giving up and to always have a go that sticks with them most.

“To have a go, to not to be so frightened of failure,” Karen said.

“It was just that perseverance and he was so encouraging and he kept you going. It was really special. I don’t think I quite appreciated just how special that time was.”

But mostly it was the inspiration to sit in stillness as Alistair did to create something beautiful, something that appeared to come

effortlessly to the master potter.

“He was just lovely to sit and watch. It was like a part of meditation, watching him work because it was so fluid. He made it look very easy but it wasn’t,” Karen said.

Always ready and prepared to offer a helping hand where possible, friend of 35 years Glenys Evens said it was just part of Alistair’s philosophy.

“He was helpful and instrumental in setting up my pottery. He had the ethic that he should help his students. He was helped by his teacher and in that Japanese tradition, you would always help your students,” Glenys said.

“If I ever had any difficulties I would go there or if it was a difficulty was my kiln, he always made himself, as soon as he could, available to come and help me.”

Extending his teaching beyond the local community, Alistair was passionate about enriching the lives of people in Vanuatu, helping build kilns and teaching pottery techniques. Having first been introduced to Vanuatu as a child through his parents, Alistair was later invited back to reintroduce pottery into the community.

“When they found out my dad was a potter, they invited my dad to come up because over time, people in the community had lost the skills to make their own pots,” Emi said.

“There was a very old history of people making their own pots for cooking and for water and lots of different purposes in the villages, but there were no current potters in Southwest Bay.

“So they asked my dad if he could come and help teach them and also be able to learn to source their own materials from what was locally available.

“He spent many years going to Vanuatu every year trying to find different clay bodies that would potentially be suitable and they got a whole lot of bricks donated and they sent them on a ship to Vanuatu and my dad went to help build the kiln and they still use this kiln today.”

Remembering her dad for his kindness and moments of silliness, Emi said the little things stay with her.

“Always having 774 on the radio and you never knew where he was in the studio but you could kind of hear him talking and then he’d pop around the corner and always be wearing

a funny woollen hat,” she said.

“He was always just very cheerful, very full of life, always happy to help, always very kind.”

But even though the man himself is no longer here, Alli said he will never be gone.

“What I have is due to him. He’s given me the skills that I’ve got and I hear him in my head when I’m at the wheel. It’s like ‘no, no, no, come on, you need to do this’.

“So he’s with me when I’m in the studio which is such a comfort to have him there because he’s been such a huge influence in my life over the last 20 years and he will always continue to be a big presence in my ceramic life and work so I really feel very privileged.”

Alistair leaves behind his beloved wife Miyako and his four daughters Emi, Tomoko, Yoko and Mariko.

An exhibition atWarburtonWaterwheel has a selection of Alistair’s works on display as part of the Creative Connections exhibition, running from 3 to 31 October.

The book will also be available locally or via his website, www.alistairwhyte.com.au/ books

Alistair Whyte, master potter, died on 5 June after a long battle with cancer.

Picture: PAT BURGAN

Fluidity and gentle hand movements was something Alistair taught his students.

Alistair met his wife Miyako in Japan during his studies. Picture: SUPPLIED

Alistair was known for his Japanese ceramics and work with porcelain.

Picture: PAT BURGAN

Always passionate about passing on his knowledge, Alistair spent much time in Vanuatu. Picture: EMI WHYTE

New look, same top service

The pharmacy inWandin North has taken on a new direction this year!

With its new branding as TerryWhite Chemmart, a grand opening celebration of this occasion has been scheduled for Saturday 21 October 2023 for the opening hours of the day, 9am until 1pm.

The pharmacy is located at Shop 4/362 Warburton Highway, Wandin North with ample parking outside.

Nabih Barsoum has been established as the pharmacist here inWandin North here for the past 12 years.

His story starts back in Egypt, his country of birth where he chose to pursue a career in pharmacy from his passion to help people in the medical field combined with an interest in business opportunities.

He studied for a period of five years in Cairo to become a registered pharmacist in Egypt.

He then practised pharmacy for a further four years to obtain the qualifications that would give him the requirements to work as a pharmacist in Australia.

While he loves his country of birth, Nabih understood that there were limited options to develop a pharmacy business in Egypt and following extensive research on a handful of countries around the globe, he chose Australia.

His choice was based on several factors including the hard work ethic, multiculturalism, and climate, for which we are renowned.

Nabih arrived in Sydney in May 2005 on a skilled migrant visa, leaving his finance Marian in Egypt until he became established in Australia.

Nabih secured a position for a 12-month internship (a requirement to practice inde-

Wandin

pendently in Australia) in the small town of Narromine, west of Dubbo in NSW.

He returned to Egypt to marry Marian and brought her back to Australia where they took up residence in the small town of Gilgandra, also near Dubbo.

After four years in Australia, Nabih bought his first pharmacy in Trangie, north of Dubbo

Grand opening

Saturday 21 October 2023

where he worked for another two years.

During this time Nabih and Marian started a family, and it was for family reasons that they decided to move to live in a larger city.

Wandin North Pharmacy was up for sale, and so in 2011 he purchased the business.

Nabih considers himself a part of the Yarra

Ranges community.

He has a strong work ethic and is very community minded, supporting local businesses and shops where he can.

With his new TerryWhite Chemmart Pharmacy, you can rest assured that you will get the best deals and personal service.

TerryWhite Chemmart Wandin North Shop 4, 362 Warburton Highway, Wandin North, VIC 3139

P: 03 5964 2274

*Available in store at TerryWhite Chemmart Wandin North exclusively and while stocks last on 21 October 2023. Excludes items already on sale, prescriptions, scheduled medicines, NDSS, baby formula and cosmetics product ranges. Terms and Conditions apply, see in-store for details. ^Savings listed are calculated from suppliers recommended retail price (RRP) at the time of preparation and not previous in-store price. Due to our competitive pricing policy we may not have sold at RRP. ∞The percentage savings shown are calculated to the nearest 5% of the actual saving. #Promotion date is only on 21 October 2023. Entry is only open to Australian residents aged 18 years or over. Two winners will be drawn on 23 October 2023, at TerryWhite Chemmart Wandin North, Shop 4, 362 Warburton Highway, Wandin North, VIC 3139. Winners will be contacted using customer details provided when they enter the promotion. Winners must present the ticket to collect the prize. Spending requirement is calculated after all discounts have been applied, and exclude prescriptions, scheduled medicines, NDSS and baby formula. Conditions apply, see in store for details. TerryWhite Chemmart® reserve the right to correct printed errors. TerryWhite Chemmart® is a registered trademark of TWC IP

and used

by

The team at Wandin North’s TerryWhite Chemmart, Nabih, Meryl, Wendy, Emma, Kiah and Ellie, look forward to welcoming you.

Killing Heidi head to ’burbs

By Mikayla van Loon

One of Australia’s most well known and loved pop rock bands, as well as an artist on the verge of celebrity, is getting ready to perform in Mount Evelyn’s backyard.

Killing Heidi will be heading to the outer eastern suburbs for the performance on 22 October as part of a mentorship program, seeing Victorian musician Yara Alkurd, 26, take to the York on Lilydale stage alongside the brother and sister duo.

As part of the Wild Turkey Music 101 sessions, Yara was selected to be mentored by Jesse and Ella Hooper, something she said she “feels really lucky” to be able to experience.

“Mentorship in the music industry is so important and I’ve never had a mentor. [Ella and Jesse] are so experienced in this industry, which I’m still trying to learn about,” she said.

“It’ll be really good to learn from them, especially navigating the music industry as a female as well. Ella is such a boss and I think it will be so cool to chat to her about staying passionate and strong.”

For Ella, being able to perform outside of the major city venues has always taken her back to her roots of growing up in a country town in Victoria.

“I grew up regional and still spend a lot of time in the regions and I always make sure I tour not just in the cities but in some pretty far flung places and the outer suburban and the regional because there are people out there,” she said.

“I was always wanting someone to stop and play a show and I was a bit starved of live music growing up in northeast Victoria in Violet Town and occasionally someone would stop and play and I would be so grateful and so excited and that inspired me so much.”

Yara’s love affair with music stems from her childhood growing up in Palestine, where her mother opened a performing arts school with fellow female performers, dancers, singers, pianists and violinists.

It was a way of creating an escape from what was happening in Gaza and has continued to carry her through tough times.

“Music has been such a thing to get me out of terrible situations and times where I’m not doing so well mentally or in tough situations in life,” Yara said.

“So it’s been an inspiration and a medium for me to connect to people and grow. It’s such a great artistic way for catharsis and self expression and growth.”

While Yara said her music never speaks about her Palestinian heritage or the politics of what is happening in Gaza, she said “simply existing and expressing and living freely as

a Palestinian person, that is inspiring enough for people to keep going and be proud of who they are and exist as what they are.”

Despite having different music styles, Yara said because her songs talk about universal topics of love, human connection, heartbreak and joy, she hopes to learn from the Killing Heidi duo about songwriting, staying passionate and perseverance.

Ella said for herself and Jesse, mentoring has become such an important part of what they now do in the music industry and said it’s “a crucial phase of anyone’s career”.

“The more education you can have at that phase and the more inspiration and support the better,” Ella said.

“I know Jesse and I will never forget the people who helped us out and gave us a leg up or even just gave us some pearls of wisdom early in our career.”

Because of the individualistic nature of music, Ella said it can be confusing for young artists to navigate, so having someone to bounce ideas off can make a huge difference in the trajectory of a career.

Having also started in the industry quite

young, Ella said two things she falls back on are “courage in my convictions” and work ethic because talent does “not equate to a successful career in music”.

“Something I found when I was beginning and in the first 10 years of my career was I wasn’t always sure about the choices I was making, about all the things I wanted to do.

“Having a sounding board to test out some of those ideas before doing them or get advice on whether this one versus that one would be the right way to go would have been fantastic.”

Excited by Yara’s “R&B, modern soul, pop” vibe, Ella said it’s also evident that she has “bucket load of natural talent but she clearly has work ethic” because of everything she has achieved on her own.

“This is an exciting time but a really important time because pretty soon I think Yara is going to be much, much more well known and mainstream.

“So if Jesse and I can get in there at this moment and be a support for her and provide a little bit more of that sounding board and that networking, it’s a crucial time and she’s seriously talented.”

From psychologist to artist

By Dongyun Kwon

Healesville artist Joan Segrave displays her landscape paintings in the YAVA-curated space at Tokar Estate Cellar Door.

Tokar Estate winery is one of the ‘YAVA Out and About’ venues, which is the project of YAVA Gallery and Arts Hub (YAVA) that links food, wine and the arts in Yarra Valley.

Segrave’s paintings are a perfect match for the Tokar Estate Cellar Door which looks out over the hills and surrounding valley.

Her works are based on Australian landscapes and she likes using strong colours and bold brushstrokes in her work, which brings vitality and energy to the room.

The influence of walking along the Larapinta trail, Bay of Fires, Uluru, Blackhall and the local Warburton Trail have all found their way into her paintings.

“I enjoy exploring colour and shape, particularly through the Australian landscape as it invites both rhythm and juxtaposition reflecting life’s experiences,” she said.

“I paint with acrylics using a palette that highlights and exaggerates the often subtle colours in our landscape.”

Her past career as a psychologist has affected her paintings in terms of people’s wellbeing.

“I worked as a psychologist until 2016, then I have become very interested in how non-verbal aspects and colours affect wellbeing and I find the painting is a really strong vehicle for that,” Segrave said.

The opening night marked successfully the launch of the exhibition on 5 October.

“I was thrilled and delighted with the people who turned up, they were very supportive and interested in my works,” she said.

Segrave thanked YAVA and Tokar Estate who supported her for the exhibition.

“I just feel extremely supported and honoured to be given the opportunity,” Segrave said.

“Tokar Estate was very supportive, hospitable and served up lovely food on the opening night and people at YAVA helped to put the exhibition together for me.”

Segrave’s works are on display until December, with all her works for sale.

Tokar Estate Cellar Door is open from 10.30am to 5pm every Thursday to Sunday, located at 6 Maddens Lane Coldstream.

YAVAmemberandvolunteerMaryAnderson,ArtistJoanSegraveandYAVAdirectorKaren Meulemanenjoyedtheopeningnighton5October.

Picture:SUPPLIED

YaraAlkurdwasselectedtobementoredby KillingHeidi.

BrotherandsisterduoJesseandEllaHooperofKillingHeidiwillbeheadingtoMountEvelynforaoneofperformance.

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A family-owned financial planning company based in Healesville, YV Financial Service’s ultimate priority is you, the client. They offer financial advice based on continued education, experience and their genuine passion for seeing everyone succeed financially.

Whether you are a young person looking to maximise your savings and investments early on to gain the best possible long-term results, you’re in need of insurance to cover yourself and loved ones in event that something happens, or you’re looking towards retirement and would like to know how and when this could be possible for you, the team at YV Financial Services can help.

They also provide advice around accessing Aged-Care and can support you if this is something you are navigating with a loved one.

The team understands that this can be an emotional time for all parties involved and will provide advice in a sensitive and supportive manner.

The YV Financial Services team pride themselves on their strong client relationships and are committed to journeying with their clients through life’s changing circumstances.

They can assist you to take control of your financial story and help you make informed decisions regarding your finances.

YV Financial Services would love to journey with you and look forward to hearing from you.

The team at YV Financial Services

54 years and going strong

By Brad Finger President’s message

Welcome to the 2023Wandin Silvan Field Days – for a 54th year.

Coming out of Covid-19, we are back full of excitement and enthusiasm for a successful event.

In my second year as president, I look forward to continuing the goal of increasing the profile and maintaining the high interest in this important local event.

After last year’s frustratedly wet year, I hope it will be a lot better this year.

From the long-serving committee members to exhibitors past and present, to the numerous community group volunteers and the all-important patrons, I thank you all. Without your support and participation, we would not have maintained our event for such a long period of time.

Our Field Days not only provide the opportunity to see the latest in farm machinery, technology and related services, but continue as a great opportunity to catch up and network with others in the industry and local area.

A diverse range of machinery and equipment will again be on display - tractors, irrigation supplies, spray equipment, and water tanks.

Farm maintenance needs are covered with exhibits such as lawn mowers, chainsaws and wood splitters.

Stalls with various tools, garden supplies and workwear are also scattered around the event.

Local schools and the ladies of our local CWA provide catering at the field days ensuring that there is a constant variety of food for exhibitors from early in the morning until late in the day.

As well as the social networking opportunity, this provides them an important fundraising opportunity and we encourage you to take advantage of their delicious refreshments.

The Field Days committee recognises the many hours volunteered by our local CFA groups, who greatly assist in the organisation of the event.

In return, proceeds from gate entry fees are donated back to them to assist in the on-going operations of the vital role they play in our communities.

In addition to the main displays, there are several lifestyle and general interest stalls featuring, with something for everyone.

The popular Yarra Valley Machinery Preservation Society will again be displaying and operating their Farm Machinery of yesteryear.

We also have working draught horses on display, an amazing demonstration of chainsaw carving and we welcome for the first time, Animals of OZ and Animals on the Move.

I think that you will agree there is something of interest for the whole family at the Field Days.

With a willing and supportive Committee behind me, I look forward to welcoming you all as we celebrate the 54th annual Wandin Silvan Field Days.

Brad Finger is enjoying his second year as president.

better

Even though Adaptable Gardens was only founded in early 2022, the ideas and ethics behind the business actually started more than 30 years prior.

A vast majority of owner Ben’s early and formative years were spent living with his grandparents. His grandfather, David, had an absolute passion for gardening. It was his therapy. It didn’t matter what state the garden was in when he moved into a new house as he had a vision in his mind before anyone could blink and a work ethic that no one could match.

In early 2020, Ben met Danielle, who had been a Mental Health Occupational Therapist for nearly 20 years. In 2021 they moved to the Dandenong Ranges and onto a large rural property. Very quickly a menagerie of farm animals joined them. With the open land and fresh air, it wasn’t long before Ben questioned his career and work-life balance. His current role took him interstate quite a lot.

In early 2022, he decided to go back to his roots and go back to where he was at his happiest; in the garden. As part of this process, he knew his late grandfather was guiding him, so the name ‘Adaptive’ needed to be in the company name. After some brainstorming with Dani, Adaptable Gardens was born.

Our main focus when we started was to look after our older community in the hills. We were quickly recommended to a couple of Aged Care package providers and before long we were looking after 30+ older clients that needed help.

During this process, one of the most enjoyable parts of working with our clients was the stories. Many of our clients told us how they used to enjoy gardening and harvesting the produce. We learnt a lot from them about oldschool ways of growing and preserving food (something we love ourselves and are passion-

ate about) yet the stories always ended the same way…

“I wish I could still garden, but I can’t use my hands very well anymore”

”I can’t get down to the ground like I used to”

Hearing the sadness about not being able to garden any more, we realised how much gardening was a source of therapy for so many

people. It was heartbreaking for us feeling like there was nothing we could do to help other than garden for them.

After a conversation with Dani, we decided we had to find a way.

We went in search of cost-effective products to help people garden again and to bring gardening up to their level. We found a couple of products that were already on the market that

helped us start that journey of helping people and the instant change in those that could now grow their own again was amazing!

There is a lack of resources out there for so many people from many different walks of life looking for solutions to help them grow their own food, especially in small spaces like apartments.

Over the last year, the search for products and solutions has intensified and has been an amazing one. What we have created through our journey is a network of amazing relationships with our suppliers and many of them have become family to us. We have formed solutions where there were previously none. We have also created as close to a closed-loop food network as possible with only 3 pre-requisites for the products we supply:

· Must be Australian or New Zealand-made

· Must be portable

· Must not directly compete with other products we supply

We are very proud to say that we have achieved our goal. What started off as a very small local garden maintenance business has now turned into a brand that specialises in finding a solution to grow your own food no matter what physical challenge or living situation you face. We have helped people in apartments grow food in self-watering towers as well as compost the food waste as well and help set up 2500 plant strawberry farms raised off the ground to survive flooding.

We truly believe that growing your own nutrient-dense food at home is the way forward and Adaptable Gardens aims to bring all of the solutions into one place.

Come and meet Ben and Dani at Wandin Silvan Field Days.

OwnersandFoundersofAdaptableGardensBenandDani.

Picture:SUPPLIED

WANDIN SILVAN FIELD DAYS 2023 Explore the Isuzu range

Are you in the market for a new UTE or SUV to suit your day-to-day needs, whether that be off-road or around the suburbs?

Genesis Motors Isuzu UTE based in Lilydale offers a range of Isuzu D-MAX utes and Isuzu MU-X SUVs in addition to high-quality preowned vehicles.

The team will be setting up at the Wandin Silvan Field Days and is looking forward to speaking with you about the latest range as well as their current service campaigns.

Genesis Motors is the start of every great adventure and has a long history of helping locals purchase their new vehicles after being first established in Ringwood in 2011.

It is led by Dealer Principal, Sumil Salgadoe, who has exceptional knowledge of the brand and industry after working from the ground up at Isuzu UTE Australia’s head office in Brisbane in 2008.

Mr Salgadoe has recruited a team around him who all believe in the Isuzu UTE products as much as he does and with that has come rapid growth seeing the expansion and relocation to Lilydale in 2016.

The Isuzu D-MAX and Isuzu MU-X have been built with the values that have made Isuzu famous: dependability, reliability and efficiency.

While Genesis Motors deals with Isuzu UTE as its primary product, they also trade in preowned vehicles which are traded and backed by the experienced staff.

Therefore if you are looking for a pre-owned

vehicle Genesis Motors has a range that caters to your requirements.

Whether purchasing a new car or servicing your vehicle, the team’s mission is to ensure an enjoyable experience from the family-owned

and run business.

Genesis Motors has factory-trained Service Technicians to ensure the safety of your vehicle is met at all times.

As a customer, you will be treated like fam-

ily ensuring unprecedented attention and care are provided at all times. So pop in and see the team at Wandin Silvan Field Days site or visit them at Genesis Motors Isuzu UTE at 461 Maroondah Highway, Lilydale VIC 3140, Australia

All welcome to the 2023 Wandin Silvan Field Days

TheWandin Silvan Field Days event is coming up this Friday 13 and Saturday 14 October.

While the weather forecast may look a bit miserable, conditions should be better for the 2023 edition than last year with all exhibitors able to attend.

Gates will open to the public from 8.30am to 5pm on Friday and 8.30am to 4pm on Saturday.

Pictured is a selection of what you can look forward to:

Top-class water delivery

Irribiz is a leading Australian-owned business, operating across 5 states of Australia.

Headquartered in Griffith NSW, we have branches and offices in Mt Evelyn VIC, Robinvale VIC, Virginia SA, Adelaide SA, Beerwah QLD, and Launceston TAS. We also have an online store.

With years of industry experience, our Mt Evelyn branch is led by Justyn Flynn.

We are extremely excited to announce that Tracey Williams has joined the team in Retail. You can find our branch in Mt Evelyn at

Unit 3, 5 Clancys Rd.

Irribiz provides world-class water and filtration solutions that help our customers conserve, reuse, and recycle water in the most efficient and sustainable way. Irribiz supplies and installs products and services to the agricultural, horticultural, hydroponic and irrigation industries and the residential market.

With a focus on providing solutions in efficient water delivery and management across residential, open field irrigation and commercial greenhouses, our team of dedicated staff

work across a range of disciplines including sales, design, installation, project management, retail and online sales and service and maintenance.

From water treatment and purification to water harvesting and storage, to water distribution and monitoring, we offer a comprehensive range of solutions that are designed to optimise your water usage and quality, while reducing your environmental impact and costs.

We are committed to innovation, excel-

lence, and customer satisfaction, and we work closely with you to understand your water challenges and opportunities and provide you with the best solutions possible to meet your goals and needs.

Irribiz is more than just a water solutions provider, we are your trusted water partner. Come meet Justyn and Tracey from our Mt Evelyn team at the Wandin Silvan Field Days, 13 to 14 October 2023.We look forward to seeing you there!

Irribiz are leaders in water delivery and management.

Pictures: SUPPLIED Come meet Justyn and Tracey from the Mt Evelyn branch at Wandin Silvan Field Days.

The key to healthy soil

It’s no secret that much of our soil is tired. Chemical fertilisers, pesticides, pollution, erosion, and intensive agriculture have stretched healthy soils to the limit.

To help restore the natural abundance and sustainability of soil, we now know that increasing the microbial activity is transformative.

Biolink is an Australian owned company committed to supporting growers and home gardeners achieve more sustainable, profitable crops and gardens. Their microbial-based range of natural fertilisers, soil stimulants, and animal probiotics are helping to restore soils and grow healthier plants and animals.

Biolink Ignition speeds up the composting process, helping to re-incorporate rich organic material back into the soil for increased moisture, nutrient and water holding ability.

Combined with conventional fertilisers, Biolink Bio-Hum helps maintain nutrients, boosts uptake and reduces losses of essential nutrients needed for your plants to thrive.

Biolink’s garden range of Sprinkle and Soak, Germinator and Biolink Brew fertilisers tea bags are a winner with home gardeners, reviving the soil through biologicals and creating the perfect environment for vegetables, fruit trees and ornamentals plants to grow.

New Opti-Gut is an animal probiotic for cattle, sheep, pigs, horses, fish, dogs, and cats. It’s working wonders to build a healthy biome, supplement inadequate diets, and support overall animal wellbeing.

“Based on research both here and overseas, we’ve blended six microbial groups that researchers, gardeners, and farmers in the field, have found to boost microbial activity in the soil and plant growth. The benefits are not just the high number of microbials in our products.

It’s the combination and the interactions these have in the soil that makes the difference” explained Biolink co-owner Kevin Beecroft.

The six powerful live microbial groups in Biolink organic fertiliser and soil stimulants are: Enterococcus Faecalis, Lactobacillus Group, Pediococcus pentosaceus, Aspergillus Group, Bacillus Subtilis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

The Biolink range also uses the power of humic fulvic acid, a key ingredient used to boost the bioavailability of organic nitrogen and reduce the use of synthetic fertilisers. Visit www.biolink4plants.com.au for more information about restoring the health of your soil.

BIOLINK™ BULLET is an allpurpose organic* fertiliser made with chicken manure and infused with our special blend of microbes.

A slow-release, year-round pelletised fertiliser, ideal for agricultural applications to build organic carbon Supports soil health and plant growth for veggie and floral gardens, lawns, and landscape use

OPTI-GUT is a natural, affordable animal probiotic that supports healthier digestion and optimum overall health

Replenishes gut flora and improves nutrient absorption Improves feed utilisation on all types of diets and helps reduce environmental emissions

Available in pelletised and water-resistant dry lick formula

Biolink uses powerful high-strength, multi-strain microbials to boost the health of plants and animals on your farm

biolink4plants.com.au

Helping farmers create more sustainable, profitable farms

Kev and Graham from Biolink.

Home gardener Biolink range.

A trusted guide to Toyota

In the market for a new vehicle? Imagine this: the opportunity to explore a dazzling array of the latest Toyota models while having expert guidance right at your fingertips. Well, you’re in luck! This 13 and 14 October, join us at the Wandin-Silvan Field Days for an enjoyable, family-friendly event.

Our dedicated team from your trusted local Toyota dealerships, Yarra Valley and Croydon Toyota, will be there to showcase Toyota’s newest additions to the line-up. While you take a break from perusing agricultural equipment, come and check out the new HiLux Rogue - the ultimate vehicle for both work and play.

But that’s just the beginning! Our knowledgeable team will be delighted to introduce you to Toyota’s eco-friendly sedans, hatches, and hybrids, perfect for those looking to make a green impact on the road.

If your needs lean towards a larger vehicle for the whole family, don’t miss our sporty and spacious SUVs. They are designed to accommodate everyone and everything you need, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride for all.

Is your business in need of a fleet of vehicles? We’ve got you covered! Our team specializes in providing tailored fleet solutions for businesses of all sizes, whether you’re a corporation, a community organization, or a government department. We’ll work closely with you to offer competitive fleet solutions that meet your specific needs.

Our financial services team will always be at your service, ready to answer any questions you may have. Whether you’re seeking a lowrate package to get behind the wheel of your dream car or need guidance on warranty and insurance matters, we’re here to provide you with quotes, clarity, and peace of mind.

Whatever you’re searching for, there’s a

Toyota that perfectly suits your needs, and our award-winning team will be there to help you find it. With over 55 years of dedicated service to our community, we’re proud and excited to

be part of local events like the Wandin-Silvan Field Days. Join us at theWandin-Silvan Field Days and explore the world of Toyota. Drop by our Yarra

Valley & Croydon Toyota display, or visit us at our dealerships anytime. We look forward to serving you and being part of your automotive journey.

From the moment it made its way onto our shores over 50 years ago, the Hilux quickly established itself as an Australian classic. A workhorse and family mover, no adventure is complete without one. And for good reason.

Combining power with on-road presence, the Hilux continues to prove itself from generation to generation. Nothing beats the unbreakable connection between you and your Hilux.

Yarra Valley Toyota Sales manager Robert Huang. Pictures: SUPPLIED Get down to see the Toyota team at Wandin Silvan Field Days.

Missy, the office dog, in all her Toyota merch.

Big decision looms for all

By Maria Millers

At the end of this week we will all be required to vote in a referendum for which many of us are ill prepared and will cast ourYes or No vote most likely on the basis of our political affiliations, prejudices, impact of media coverage (particularly social media), and in most cases with scant understanding of what the Voice will deliver to our indigenous people or how it will affect the lives of all Australians.

In 2017, the Uluru Statement from the Heart called for three things: voice, treaty and truth: a voice to parliament enshrined in the constitution and a Makarrata commission to oversee a process of treaty-making and truthtelling .There is, however, discomfort among both the indigenous and the wider community as to the process of achieving this. Some high profile indigenous want a Treaty before anything else, but truth telling must also take place. The true history of our dealings with those who were here before us needs to be told and owned.

There has been a failure from the Government in educating the public and counteracting the misinformation which always spreads like a virus. The old shibboleth from Mabo about ordinary Australians’ backyards being in danger of repossession has surfaced again. As Australians we do not have a tradition of debating/ discussing substantive issues, and while endless analyses of sporting events are acceptable, it’s regarded as a social faux pas to engage in talking about politics.

The Yes vote has according to the poll been lagging behind the No vote. A weary electorate still in recovery from the pandemic and now battered with mortgage and cost of living stresses is not receptive to hearing about ‘closing the gap’ of indigenous disadvantage. After all, they say, haven’t we already poured millions and millions of money in addressing the health, education and violence problems with apparently little result? And why do some succeed while others remain in generational poverty?

It is true that there is a growing well educated and well to do indigenous middle class: in academia, business and particularly in the arts and there are eleven indigenous members of Parliament. But the health, education and social problems of rural and remote communities remain still unsolved. Groups like Just Reinvent appear to be addressing the causes of crime in places like Bourke but on any day of the year 50 per cent; of those incarcerated across Australia are indigenous. Alcohol fuelled violence and crime persists in centres like Alice Springs.

It is too simplistic to dismiss issues to do with health, incarceration, suicide, life expectancy with admonishments such as don’t commit crimes, change your lifestyles and so on, ignoring generations of disadvantage, exploitation and ingrained victimhood. It also ignores alienation from traditions. As Noel Pearson put it: Recognition is not just about disadvantage,

it’s about our languages, our culture, our history, recognition of our art, and all of the good things we can contribute to the country.

Many indigenous writers and poets have followed in the footsteps of Oodgeroo Noonucccal aka Kath Walker who in 1970 published the poem, An Appeal, where she called on Statesmen, Writers, Unions, Churches, the Press and the white community to take on the indigenous cause. What she asks for still holds today: leadership from the government, truth from our writers and poets, justice from the unions, Christian love and support from the church, advocacy from the press and most importantly acceptance and understanding from white Australians: On you our chiefest hopes depend.

Now the multi-talented Baker Boy from Arnhem Land has become a powerful role model for young indigenous, as he raps his way into mainstream prominence with a message for them to embrace their culture and become

COMMUNITY DIARY

COMMUNITY DIARY

WHAT’S ON AROUND THE VALLEY

Powerful film screening

Join Casey Grandmothers for Refugees on Thursday 26 October for a screening of ‘The Staging Post’, a one hour documentary about friendship, connection and the power of community.

Speakers, discussion of the film and conversation is also promised for the evening. Drinks and nibbles form 5pm, with the event wrapping up at 7pm.

The screening event will be raising funds through entry donations to support refugee organisation the Brigidine Asylum Seekers Project.

It will be hosted at the Tudor Village Community Centre, located at 520 Maroondah Highway Lilydale.

Everyone is welcome to join. For all inquiries contact Evol on 0406 378 889.

Living Stories

Community members are invited to attend an event that will shine a spotlight on the personal, lived-experience mental health stories of six Yarra Ranges residents.

The ‘Living Stories’ event is a joint initiative between Yarra Ranges Council, Eastern Health and Inspiro Community Health, showcasing the triumphs and challenges that come with living with a mental illness.

The stories will be told in a variety of different forms, from video and written word to visual arts. A panel discussion with the participants

leaders in their communities:

You wanna be as good as me? Boy, you better practice

Step back, feel the power of my blackness

You wanna be as good as me? Boy, you better practice

Step back, feel the power of my blackness

The vote every Australian casts on 14 October should be a considered vote based on whether you believe the proposedVoice would indeed improve the lives of our fellow indigenous Australians for the better, or whether it merely puts in place another level of bureaucracy with no tangible benefits and perhaps some unintended consequences of resentment of perceived bias towards one section of our community over another.

An Appeal:

Statesmen, who make the nation’s laws, With power to force unfriendly doors, Give leadership in this our cause That leaders owe.

Writers, who have the nation’s ear, Your pen a sword opponents fear, Speak of our evils loud and clear That all may know.

Unions, who serve democracy, Guardians of social liberty, Warm to the justice of our plea, And strike your blow.

Churches, who preach the Nazarene, Be on our side and intervene, Show us what Christian love can mean Who need it so.

The Press, most powerful of all, On you the underprivileged call:

Right us a wrong and break the thrall That keep us low.

All white well-wishers, in the end On you our chiefest hopes depend; Public opinion’s our best friend To beat the foe.

will also be a part of the event.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said the inspiring and thought provoking stories told by residents would hopefully lead to more people impacted by mental health challenges to take the first step in reaching out to seek professional help.

“This project is all about reducing the stigma that is sometimes attached with mental health challenges, and breaking down barriers for people to seek professional help when they need it,” Cr Child said.

“We know that here in theYarra Ranges around a quarter of adults have sought help for a mental health issue over the past 12 months, and previous data has told us thatYarra Ranges had the second highest rate of mental health issues in Melbourne.

“I’d like to sincerely thank all of the brave participants who came forward and shared their personal and powerful stories with us and the community. By doing so, I have no doubt it will empower others to seek help.”

The event will be held on Saturday 14 October from 2pm to 4pm at Japara Neighbourhood House, 54-58 Durham Road, Kilsyth. Catering will be provided.

To register to attend, go to www.eventbrite. com/e/the-living-stories-launch-event-tickets-679879567087

Join

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

Picture: SHANE ZAHNER

Community spirit shines

By Callum Ludwig

Despite the grief of losing their muchloved partner and father Sam Knight, Vicky Whillance and her daughter Hazel have felt immensely supported by the local community.

Within hours of the sad news being shared, a meal train had been set up, a support group started to check in daily on the pair, the GoFundMe to help financially support them, the announcement of Sell it for Sam atYarraValley Cycles and other offers of help came flooding in.Vicky said the response has been incredible.

“Our lives are turned upside down. We’ve lost the person we loved immensely, he was such a loving and incredible partner, father, brother, uncle, son, friend and many more,” she said.

“The support has allowed me to focus on Hazel who is grieving and trying to process the huge loss of her daddy,”

“We’ve lost such a huge part of our family unit that we can never get back, you only get one dad and my heart breaks for Sam and Hazel that they miss out on such a special relationship.”

$44,436 has been raised for Sam’s family from 245 donations as of Friday 6 October.

Vicky said they also had a beautiful local death doula Steffi support their family in saying goodbye to Sam.

“She was incredible and helped create a safe space for us all to say goodbye to Sam in person,” she said.

“It’s very hard to navigate the situation of a toddler saying goodbye to their daddy and she made the process a beautiful one which involved Hazel picking flowers for him prior and then laying those flowers and toys on him and she was able to give him a kiss goodbye.”

The family had only lived in Warburton for three years prior to Sam’s death, but he was quick to embed himself in the community.

Vicky said if anyone asked for help Sam would be there.

“He was a much-loved tenant and business owner at YREC, was part of the Wednesday morning Yarra river swimming group, was

involved in Upcycles where he volunteered to help with building work and also designed their logo, he would look forward to community dinners on Thursday nights at Koha or going mountain bike riding with local riders when he had the time, as well as running a few local Jigsaw Jumps sessions,” she said.

“Sam was a very kind-hearted thoughtful person, he was a very approachable gentle soul and always had time to talk or listen to anyone. He was creative, intelligent, passionate, adventurous and not one to sit on the sidelines,”

“If anyone had a fun idea, he would quickly find a way to make it possible.”

Many will have fond memories of Sam cruising up in his beloved 1977 red Subaru station wagon.

Vicky and Sam met online, briefly chatting before quickly setting up their first chance to meet in person; kayaking down theYarra River.

Vicky said her favourite memories of Sam are of doing things together as a family.

“How his face would always light up so much when he saw Hazel, he was such a doting dad.

Special family outings, our bike rides together, him doing everything he could to make her have fun, taking her to skate park or to feed the ducks,” she said.

“He absolutely adored Hazel and would take her on bike rides to the playground or to feed the ducks, he would spend hours reading to her or flying her around the house or hanging her upside down upon her request,”

“They loved to sit by the river together where he would sing a song to her (my girl Hazel, my girl Hazel, sittin’ at the river with my girl Hazel) and they would throw rocks into the river.”

Sam and Hazel’s time together would never be short of imagination whether it be running around the house with Hazel aloft pretending to be birds flying or being ‘Big Bear’ and ‘Little Bear’ as they set out to fetch wood for the fire.

Anyone who would like to further financially support Vicky and Hazel can do so at: https://gofund.me/b003b0c7.

CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar 3 Meadowgate Drive

CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway

CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar 158 Nangathan Way

CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar 11 The Mall

KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Churinga SC, Russo Place

KILSYTH Kilsyth News & Lotto 520 - 528 Mt Dandenong Road

KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette87 Colchester Road

KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Canterbury Road Kilsyth

KILSYTH TSG Tobacco Churinga Shopping Centre Mt Dandenong Road

LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC 33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC 51-59 Anderson Street

LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale Village Castella Street & Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre 7 Hardy Street

LILYDALE Eastern Laundries. 2/4 Williams Street East

LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre 1 Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station 473 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale 346 Main Street

LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths 31 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE BP Service Station 87 Warburton Highway

LILYDALE Shell Service Station 469 Maroondah Highway

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

LILYDALE Coles Express 469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe 251 Main Street

LILYDALE Round Bird Can’t Fly 170 Main Street

LILYDALE The Lilydale General 110 Beresford Road

LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery 96 Main Street

LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe 178 Main Street

LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe 222 Main Street

LILYDALE Gracious Grace Castella Street

LILYDALE Melba Coffee House 33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies 7/75 Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE The Mustard Tree Cafe 3/28 John Street

LILYDALE Freda’s Cafe 2 Clarke Street

LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate 164 Main Street

LILYDALE Stockdale & Leggo Real Estate 281 Main Street

LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate 111-113 Main Street

LILYDALE Grubs Up 1 Industrial Park Drive

LILYDALE Olinda Creek Hotel Maroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Crown Hotel Maroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street

MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket 916 Mt Dandenong Road

MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road

MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street

MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent

MOUNT EVELYN Red Robin Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent

MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road

MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale 138 York Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket 15 Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar 38 Bellara Dive

MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart 108 Hayrick Lane

MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark 103 Cardigan Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Express 2 Cambridge Road

MOOROOLBARK Mooroolbark Coin Laundrette28 Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real Estate Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK L J Hooker Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road

L-R: Sam Knight, Vicky Whillance and daughter Hazel on a family snow day just weeks before his passing. Picture: SUPPLIED

More taxes for Victoria From my desk

After the sudden resignation of Daniel Andrews, one of the first acts of Victoria’s new Premier, less than one week into the job, was to introduce two new taxes. When governments tax you more, it means less money for you and your family to spend on the essentials. Higher taxes stifle economic growth and disproportionately hurt those that can least afford it.

Victoria is already the highest taxed state in Australia, with Victorians paying an average of $5,074 per person in taxes according to an independent report by the Parliamentary Budget Office.

Since 2014, the Labor Government has introduced 52 new or increased taxes. Most recently this includes a rent tax, health tax, jobs tax, tourism tax, and a schools tax, making life harder for Victorians and adding to their costof-living pressures.

Bridget Vallence Evelyn MP

Astonishingly, the revenue expected from these new taxes will go no way to tackling state debt, which is forecast to reach a whopping $171 billion in just three years’ time. Victoria’s debt level is more than NSW, Queensland and Tasmania combined. A shocking legacy.

And, the interest bill to service that debt is

Movie takes you to edge

On October 6, the Memorial Hall in Healesville hosted a special screening and Q&A event for The Cost, the latest film by director Matthew Holmes.

Aaron (Damon Hunter) and David (Jordan Fraser-Trumble) abduct Troy (Kevin Dee) and bring him to the woods to dispense justice for an old crime, only for their plan to go awry.

The Cost is a taut, harrowing thriller that makes excellent use of its small cast and setting. Holmes doesn’t view The Cost as a horror film – ‘It will take you to the edge of the cliff, but it will not push you over the edge’ – but it’s still a confronting, psychologically disturbing film that examines the brutality normal people are capable of, whether an eye for an eye is truly justice, and how pragmatism can lock you into a horrific situation.

Dee is both pathetic and manipulative as Troy, Hunter delivers an almost scary resolve as Aaron – during the Q&A, Hunter mentioned that he maintained this intensity throughout the production – and Fraser-Tumble conveys David’s growing anxiety over their actions.

The Cost showsTroy’s instigating crime –his assault and murder of Stephanie (Nicole Pastor), who was Aaron’s sister and David’s wife – in flashbacks that, while not particularly graphic, may be triggering to some viewers. These scenes negate all but superficial sympathy for Troy, which highlights Aaron and David’s central moral conflict. The close-up camerawork, as Holmes put it, also ‘claustrophobically kinda traps you with these three characters’ for an intimate view of their psyches. The dialogue feels slightly melodramatic at first, but this aids the narrative: as David questions whether they can go through with their plan and if the trauma from killing Troy will outweigh any retribution, his initial bravado dissolves. Adam is a great illustration of the difference between cold and pragmatic: he appears stoic and bloodthirsty, but he is driven by grief for his sister and a need to protect his family, and he know’s that they’re in too deep to back out now.

The Cost is extremely suspenseful and superbly balances both internal and exter-

nal conflict: complications emerge in wellforeshadowed but shocking ways, and the tension tightens to excruciating levels in the nerve-shredding climax.

In a fun Q&A after the film, Holmes and Hunter gave thorough insight into the film’s production.

A planned 3-month shoot became a 13-month shoot, partly due to Covid lockdowns. The filming often took place in cold weather and harsh conditions, with Dee ‘barefoot in the woods’ for long stretches. Dee courageously took the brunt, but everyone suffered a little for their art. ‘You get a few bumps and bruises making a film like this,’ Holmes remarked.

Holmes, the cast and crew constantly debated to make sure they don’t go too far or mean-spirited or turn The Cost into an exploitation movie.

Clayton Watson plays Brian, a farmer who throws a wrench in Aaron and David’s plans. Holmes noted that while the shooting script didn’t change much,Watson (who was a late addition to the cast) played Brian significantly funnier than on the page. ‘Casting is fluid. Sometimes it surprises you.’

The Cost will screen at several independent cinemas in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia, including Cameo in Belgrave on October 11 and the Mecca Arts Centre in Warburton on October 13, and will be released on DVD, BluRay and streaming services on October 18.

The major cinema franchises have little interest in supporting Australian movies, and an enthralling, well-crafted Australian film like The Cost deserves our support.

costingVictorian taxpayers’ $15 million dollars a day, each and every day. That’s right – today $15 million in interest, tomorrow another $15 million in interest, and the next day and so on. By 2026, interest on the Labor Government’s debt is forecast to reach $22 million per day.

Just think what we could do with that sort of money in our community.

We could start fixing dangerous roads and intersections, including Warburton Highway in Seville East, Maroondah Highway at Killara Road in Coldstream, the single-lane bottleneck of Hull Road in Mooroolbark under the rail bridge, and Clegg Road at Wellington Road in Wandin North. We could duplicate the railway tracks between Mooroolbark and Lilydale to improve the frequency and reliability of trains on the Lilydale Line. We could allocate funds to upgrade facilities or purchase new

CARTOON

equipment for local emergency services like Lilydale State Emergency Service (SES) and CFA Fire Brigades.

Labor’s program of ever-increasing taxes is not the economic reform that Victoria needs.

My vision for Victoria is that we find a different way. Instead of punishing Victorians with increasing debt and more taxes, Victoria needs a real plan for genuine economic reform that promotes investment and growth, reduces cost-of-living pressures, and makes life easier for households, community groups and small business.

Have your say at www.BetterTaxSystem. com.au about how you think Victoria’s tax system can be improved. It’s time that Victorians had their say and I am here to listen to you.

Two notable productions

The Bakery @ 1812

Phantom Call by Chris Hudson

The play was in the intimate theatre of the Bak ery@1812 which well suited the production.

A very good set of a suburban lounge room with on audience left was the front door and on audience right was the entry to the kitchen, 1812 always has the off rooms well set so when the audience looks at the off rooms, they do not see a bank wall but a well furnished set.

The story is of amateur spiritualists and one sceptic . They have a seance and the departed one through the medium gives them the racing tips for the next day. Naturally they all win. But!

A cast of seven all excellently played.

Opening we enter the home of the Musgroves, Marge and Charlie. Madge was given a great performance by Annie Laurenson who knew how to handle her husband, Charlie.

Charlie was played by Andrew McIver . A superb performance where Andrew played many roles. This is not easy to change characters at the drop of a hat but Andrew succeeded successfully.

Ryan Brennan played Mr Crimmens, the channel used by the medium to bring the spirits in. Another good portrayal of the actor playing several role.

Patricia McCraken was the medium Madam Zelda. Patricia must have been to play this role. He portrayal was excellent. She went about the room calling the departed and the theatre gave an impressive display of lightning, thunder and at the right moments

Beryl was played by Shivanii Cameron .As one of the group Shivanii gave a fine performance keeping up the standard as set. Gloria was played by Rosie Leonardi. Another good performance particularly when telling off Mr Percy.

Mr Percy was played by Roderick Chappel who seemed a quiet character at first then turned out to e very selfish for which Rosie told him off. Roderick gave a good interpretation of such a character.

A well written show, very comedic with a

Kemp’s curtain call

little aspect of doubt.

The Bakery@1812 gave its audience a wonderful and comedic night out.

The Basin Theatre Belle

The Basin Theatre opened its October season with Belel? A story of six sisters with one of the sisters, Peggy, ringing up the other five to say that their mother is in hospital suffering from food poisoning.The sisters’ reaction is what the play is all about.

A very busy stage with the sisters spread across USA , from Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Mississippi,Washington and Texas.

This was represented by various means from two bedrooms, a kitchen, a lounge room where Peggy broadcasts from which is a centre raised stage.

The sisters all have their own peculiarities such as one who is ventriloquist, another who has difficulties in her marriage

Peggy was played by Michaela Smith/ Peggy is the oldest daughter and still lives with their mother. She rang the other sisters to tell them about her mother eating some bad tuna but the other sisters had their own problems.

Technically The Basin handled the phone calling very well, Each sister had a telephone and when they rang each other the phone actually rang. The whole play was around the telephones with each sister ringing each other up throughout the evening. The players gave good performances but one of the girls could have been a little louder.

A successful evening of theatre giving a few. Laughs and pathos.

Actor Damon Hunter (left) and director Matthew Holmes (right) at a screening and Q&A event for new film The Cost at the Memorial Hall in Healesville on October 6.

Picture: SETH LUKAS HYNES

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PUZZLES

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Looks for (5)

4 Pathological self-admirer (9)

9 Contain (7)

10 Instrument for crushing material into small pieces (7)

11 Subtle change by degrees (9)

12 US state (5)

13 Swine (3)

14 Bug poison (11)

16 Tools (11)

19 Long, slippery fish (3)

20 Cavalry sword (5)

22 Charity (9)

25 Print process (7)

26 Drank (7)

27 Dangled (9)

28 Unkempt (5)

DOWN

1 Throw (5)

2 Gives something and receives another (9)

DECODER

3 Aqualung (5)

4 Foes (7)

5 Natural (7)

6 Talents (9)

7 Country (5)

8 Relating to the body (9)

13 Female religious leader (9)

14 From Israel (9)

15 Beyond words, indescribable (9)

17 Coped (7)

18 Cared for (7)

21 Dollars (coll) (5)

23 Puzzle (5)

24 Currently (5)

9-LETTER WORD

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once.

WORDFIT

tacit, tact, tactual, tail, tala, talc,

acquit, ACQUITTAL, actual, alit, aqua, aquatic, attic, laic, quail, quittal,

No. 154 No.

PROPERTY

CHARACTER AND CHARM ON 5 ACRES

See page 30

CHARACTER AND CHARM ON FIVE ACRES

THIS privately located and stunning character filled property is packed with features and oozing space and comfort.

The main residence is set back from the street offering privacy and seclusion with a circular asphalt driveway framed by manicured garden beds, where the wide front verandah welcomes you into the light filled home with 10-foot ceilings, decorative ceiling roses and cornicing, double hung windows and stunning hardwood floors throughout. There is a beautiful lead light front door that opens to central hallway with 4 oversized bedrooms flowing from the hallway – two of which are large enough to be used as a rumpus/3rd living area if required.

The hallway opens onto the vast loungeroom with split system and a dining space big enough for the largest of tables, all with gorgeous, distant views. The classic, country kitchen adjoins the dining area and has modern conveniences including laminate benchtops, walk in pantry and servery to the undercover entertaining area outside, combined with the character of the Falcon 1200mm free standing stove. This open plan family space also opens onto the spacious rear deck overlooking the solar heated in ground pool, complete with rustic poolside hut, the orchard and veggie patch and 4 sizeable, fenced paddocks with water, perfect for your horses or hobby farm.

Access from the main hallway takes you to the parent’s retreat/2nd loungeroom with tranquil views and the huge master bedroom with walk in robe, stunning ensuite, character finishes in keeping with the rest of the home and amazing views.

Add to all this mains gas ducted heating, evaporative cooling, some double glazing, updated bathrooms, character features, an abundance of original charm and 4.5kW of solar to battle those increasing electricity bills.

Outside you will meander along the asphalt driveway to the 10m x 12m, 3 bay/6 car American Barn with concrete floor, power, attached 6 x 3 shipping container and mezzanine, located adjacent to the chicken run and handy outside “thunder box” toilet with a view. Towards the front of the property is a concreted half court for the basketball enthusiast, landscaped gardens and a well set up and tidy Dependant Persons Unit (DPU) containing a bedroom, study, bathroom, open plan kitchen/living area with split system heating and cooling

HOME ESSENTIALS

and its own carport and shedding. This property really does tick all the boxes when it comes to luxury, comfort, family, acreage and views.

properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office. ●

22BoundaryRoadWest,Emerald$1,150,000-$1,250,000

Space,Privacy&5BedroomsonOveranAcre!

Locatedonnearly1.5sunnyacreswithyourowncreekfrontage,quietnothroughroadlocation &ashortwalkfromEmeraldtownship.Entertofindafifthbedroom/homeoffice,aswellasdirect entryfromtheDLUG.TheMasterSuitehasaWIR,ensuite,retreatloungearea&privateundercover deck.Thehomeflowsintotheformalloungewithlargewindows&aspaciousdiningroom.Thelarge updatedkitchenhasstonebenchtops,&qualityappliances,&thefamilyroomhasvaultedceiling, woodfireheater&multipleskylights.Thereare3bedroomsatthefarendofthehome,withBIRs &areservicedbyafamilybathroom.Addtoallthisalaundry/mudroom,zonedductedheating, evaporativecooling&ceilingfansthroughoutthehome.Outdoorsisapavedarea,2gardensheds, 2watertanksforuseinthegarden,asealeddrive,&doublecarport.

Character,Charm,DualAccommodation&over5ClearedAcres!

Thehomehasacircularasphaltdriveway,manicuredgardens,10-footceilings,decorativeceiling roses&cornicing,mainsgasductedheating,evaporativecooling,somedoubleglazing,4.5kWof solar,doublehungwindows&hardwoodfloors.Thereare4oversizedbedrooms,thenaloungeroom withsplitsystem&alargediningspace.Thekitchenhasa1200mmFalconstove,&adjoinsthedining areawithwalkinpantry.Thereardeckoverlooksthesolarheatedingroundpool,hut,orchard& veggiepatch&4fencedpaddockswithwater.TheParent’sRetreatjoinstheMasterbedroomwith WIR,&ensuite.Externallyisa10m*12m,3bay/6carAmericanBarnwithconcretefloor&power. Thereisalsoaconcretedbasketballhalfcourt,chickenrun,&aDependentPersonsUnitcontaining abedroom,study,bathroom,openplankitchen/livingareawithsplitsystemAC,carport&shedding.

100WooriYallockRoad,Cockatoo$750,000-$820,000

OutstandingOutdoorEntertainingwithStylishFamilyHome!

Thegraveldrivewayleadstoadoublecarport&offstreetparking.Inside,discoverabedroomwitha BIR.Thenthehomeflowstoanopenplankitchen/dining/loungeroomwithgascooking,agenerous butlerspantrywithitsownsink&dishwasher.Preparedinnerasyourguests&familyunwindbythe woodfireorenjoythesplitsystemAC.Thereisalovelyfamilybathroom/laundrywithblacktapwear, toilet,&arainheadshoweroverthebathtub.Continuedownthehallwaytodiscover2generous bedroomsbothwithceilingfans&BIRs.AttheendofthehallwayisthemasterbedroomwithBIRs& anensuitewithtoilet&shower.Externally,thereisafullyfencedlargebackyardwithalargecovered entertainingareawithconcreteflooring,workshoparea,&alargegardenshed.Thegardenbeds alongtheretainingwallsareverytidy&thereisalargegrassedarea.

Spacious,WellLocated,GorgeousFamilyHomeonover1/2anacre!

Thisisthehomeyouhavebeenwaitingfor!SituatedinadesirableEmeraldlocation,offeringtown conveniencewithspaceandprivacythatover1/2anacreoffers!Thisfantasticfamilyhomeisset attheendofalongdriveway,withadoublelockupgarageandadoublecarport.Thehome features4bedrooms,2bathroomsandahandystudy.Withbambooflooring,ductedheatingand evaporativecoolingthemoderncomfortsawait.TheCountycharmisprovidedinthecosylounge roomwithwoodfireforwarmingyourselfasthechefofthekitchenenjoysthemodernfacilities. Othercharmingfeaturesofthehomeincludebaywindowstoenjoytranquilmomentsonandagas logfire.Enjoythebalmysummernightstocomeinyourlargecoveredoutdoorentertainingareathat soakinthesightsofyourparklikesurrounds.

31WhiteStreet,Silvan$2,000,000-$2,200,000

18SteelRoad,Emerald$1,200,000-$1,300,000

AaronDay M 0407365994

BrennanMileto M 0422996451

SPACIOUS 4 BEDROOM ON 1/4 ACRE

NESTLED on a generous ¼ acre block is this very attractive 4-bedroom home.

It’s situated in the glorious Yarra Valley, which has a host if things to offer that most suburbs simply don’t have. Such as worldrenowned wineries, the famous Chocolatery, restaurants and much more.

The property boasts views of Mount Dandenong, Christmas hills and directly across the road fields with cattle grazing year-round. The perfect mix of country lifestyle while remaining close to amenities

The home approx. twelve years old is perfect for family living providing 4 bedrooms each with built in robes, while the main bedroom features full ensuite with double vanity and double shower as well as a spacious walk-in robe. There are two living areas, great kitchen with stone tops and 900 mil upright stove, family bathroom, laundry, and toilets x two.

Additional features for the property include all year-round comfort with ducted heating and evaporative cooling. And what most properties don’t have is 3 phase power, but this one does. So, if you’re a tradie you’ll never be short on power.

Externally there is an undercover entertainment area second to none. It’s huge and made completely from powder coated steel.

In terms of garage accommodation, the property provides a double lock up garage with remote control and a steel garage shed in the back yard with gated vehicle access and gravel driveway with room to park a caravan or boat.

Better put this property on your short list before it is sold. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

Contact: Bill Verhagen 0417 371 987, INTEGRITY REAL ESTATE

Prestigious Equine Lifestyle Estate on 16.5 Acres

Nestled in the heart of Kinglake Central, this quality property is a true gem that offers a lifestyle of comfort that is perfectly set up for motocross enthusiasts, truck and transport, and equestrian pursuits! A beautifully refurbished residence providing practicality and modern convenience. A character Weathertex home that provides a modern and comfortable living environment combining style and functionality. It’s the perfect low maintenance accommodation you’re looking for, coupled with an adventurous lifestyle.

The home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen/meals area, living room and laundry. Some of the many features include walk-in robe and en suite to master, built in robes, 2 toilets, reverse-cycle air conditioning, and the ambiance of a wood heater. Stepping outside you have a large alfresco entertainment decking overlooking your private backyard. Keep the power bills low and reduce your carbon footprint with a solar panel system that completes the home. Water is assured with rainwater storage tanks, an unlimited spring water bore, and access to spring fed dam.

Externally is where the property really shines. A standout features is the impressive 10x14m American barn, complete with concrete floor, power, cool room and man cave with bar and pot belly stove for those leisurely evenings. Adjacent to the house is the domestic 6x9m shed for car accommodation and storage. Ample shedding extends to those with equestrian pursuits, accompanied with a well-designed horse stable complex including two 5x5m stables with space for tack, wash bay and tie up.

The land itself spans approx. 16.5 acres of rolling pasture and mixed bush at the rear and is divided into six fully fenced manicured paddocks, 2 Equimesh foaling paddocks, four with shelters, and electric fencing. The facilities extend further to the well located 55x27m dressage arena with quarter-minus base and drainage.

Moving beyond the equine potential, mixed family recreation is catered for with professionally built motocross track, from the amateur to the professional enthusiast. Commercial clientele with appreciated the hardstand truck yard, and work from home business solutions are covered by Starlink internet connectivity through the facilities. Additionally there are dog pens for breeders or housing pets whilst away. This property offers a wealth of opportunities for business and personal use, without compromising on modern comfort and convenience, located close to urban centres.

Thishomeoffersapicturesque&comfortablelivingexperienceandissituatedona spacious&usableacre.featuringfront&rearverandahs,largedouble-glazedwindows, plentyofnaturalsunlight,generouslysizedbedrooms-one withbuilt-inrobes,spaciousnew kitchenwithabaywindow,inbuiltgaswoodheaterinlounge, hybridlaminateflooring& carpetinbedrooms,lock-upgarage&workshop,freshlypaintedshedatthefrontwhich couldpotentiallyserveasahomeofficeareaorafarmgateshopexperience(sTca).

Thisprivatelypositionedhomeon5flatacrespayshomagetonaturalfittingsandoffers openplanlivingspaceswithtimberfloors,centralcontemporarykitchenwithinduction cooking,astunningensuite,hugelaundry/mudroomwithseparateaccessfromoutside, woodheater,splitsystemandastudynook.Thegroundscompriseoftwolargepaddocks withgoodfencing-ponyready,adoublegarageanda3bayapprox.7.5mx10.5m poweredshedwithamezzaninefloor.Enjoythebeautifulsurroundingsonthehugedeck.

HOME FOCUS

REMARKABLE HOME IN GREAT LOCATION

LOCATED in the beautiful Beaumont Waters Estate, this remarkable home offers many features that combine comfort and practicality. The house is set up to provide multiple living arrangements with five bedrooms and three bathrooms. You’ll find one of these bedrooms and bathrooms as part of a studio-style unit adjoining the main house. This home provides ample room for a growing family, extended/dependant family member, home office, salon, or those who value space and would love the extras!

Situated on an 800m² corner block, this property offers privacy, plenty of extras, room for everyone, and the perfect location.

Inside

Two separate living spaces inside

The well-appointed kitchen features stainless steel appliances, connecting to a comfortable meal area

· The main bedroom boasts an ensuite and walk-in robe

All other bedrooms are equipped with builtin robes and serviced by a central family bathroom

Extra Features

· Newly fitted plantation shutters not only enhance the interior aesthetics but also offer excellent light control and privacy

Storage is plentiful with ample linen/hall cupboards

Full alarm system

Ducted vacuum and heating

· Solar

· Multiple split system air conditioning units to maintain a comfortable environment

year-round

Added Bonus

Fabulous studio with separate access, own bathroom, perfect for working from home and having clients attend

Outside

Generous outdoor entertaining area, fitted with Cafe blinds, fully enclosing the space as an inside-outside living area!

Parking is a breeze with a two-car garage with internal access to the main residence

Additional oversized double garage/ workshop at the rear with side access

This workshop is a creative haven, a DIY enthusiast’s dream, or simply a functional space to store your tools and equipment.

Additional two garden sheds on the property offer extra storage.

Within walking distance to Eden Rise

Shopping Centre and proximity to sporting facilities, public transport, parklands surrounding the large lake, wetlands reserve and extensive walking paths, Monash Freeway, and all that Berwick offers. Don’t delay, this property is a must to inspect. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

2/4DouglasParade,YarraJunction$690,000-$750,000

Loadsofcharminthisimmaculatehome

RelaxtothesoundsofYarraRiver

Thehomeiswellpresentedandboastsplentyofspaceforthegrowingfamilywith3bedrooms allwithbuiltinrobesandafreshmodernbathroom.Theopenplankitchenhasplentyofbench andcupboardspacewithaseparatemeals/diningareaandspaciouslounge/familyroomgiving everyoneplentyofroomtospreadout.Outsideisacolorfulandpicturesquebackdropwithagreat sizerearyardwithacoolcreekmeanderingthrough,frontandrearverandahsprovideagreatspot torelaxandenjoythepicturesquesurrounds.Beautifulestablishedgardenswithacolourfularray offloweringtreesandshrubs,amplecaraccommodationplusunderhousestorage.Afantastic propertyinasensationallocationjustastonesthrowtotheYarrariverandjustashortstrolltolocal, schools,shopstransportandtheWarburtontrail,it’sagreatplacetocallhome. DavidCarroll M 0419539320 Inspection: ByAppointment 3 A 1 B 1 C

28BYarraStreet,YarraJunction$700,000-$770,000

LuxuryLivingwithBreathtakingViews

Theconvenienceoflivinginthisideallocationisjustthebeginningofthejoyinthisstunningluxury home.Amagnificentkitchenistheheartandsoulofthehome,withagloriousfeaturestoneisland bench,inductioncooktopandpyrolyticoven,amplecupboardandbenchspace,andtheherois thegloriousmountainvistathatyouenjoyfromyourkitchenanddiningroom.Themasterbedroomis delightful,withdirectaccesstooneoftheentertainmentdecks,aluxuriousensuitewithstonebench topsanddoublesinksandall3bedroomsenjoyfittedouttriplerobes.Multipleoutdoorlivingdecks makethisagreatentertainershome.Wellthoughtoutlandscapedgardenswithwateringsystemare completeforyouroutdoorsenjoyment,andalargedoublelockupgaragewithinternalaccessfor convenience.Auniqueandbeautifulhomeonofferinafabuloustownlocation.

TonyFanfulla

M 0419870513

45AlpineBoulevard,LaunchingPlace$680,000-$735,000

HalfanacrewithBeautifulViews

Setonoverhalfanacreoflandthatadjoinstherailtrail,you’llfindahomewithmanyoptions!A paveddrivewayleadsthewaytoadoublecarcarportthatalsoextendstothedoublelockup garage.Thekitchenandmealsopenstoyourspaciousloungewithcathedralceilings,cozywoodfire andsplitsystem,largewindowsthatofferlotsofnaturallightandaslidingdoortothestunningtiled decktoenjoythemountainviews.Afullbathroomcompletewithabathforthatluxuriousevening soak,nexttothemasterbedroomplusseparatetoiletandlinenstorageleadstothestaircasethat takesyoudownstairstoahugebedroomwithbigwindowsandslidingdoortothegarden.Alaundry andbathroomaswellasaccesstothedoublegarageplusextrastorageroomreallymakesthis homeversatile.Callnowforinspection!

M 0448924266

Inspection: Sat12.00-12.30pm

BREATHTAKING VIEWS AND DUAL LIVING

THIS architectural residence is a feast for the senses filled with textural design elements.

Imagine exposed beams, rendered accent walls, and rich timber including vaulted ceilings all set to a backdrop of spectacular vista views and lush gardens.

Welcome to this 2,035sqm (approx.) dream lifestyle property. The landscape begins with a large circular drive with double carport.

Practical and picturesque, the rear garden boasts an enclosed vegetable patch and orchard, firepit area for gathering with family and friends, paved patio, outdoor heated tub, and more.

A shining example of the exceptional way of life the Dandenong Ranges affords, this property will alight imaginations with inspiration.

Inside is equally impressive and offers the versatility every family craves.

Of the 3 levels, 2 are adorned with their own kitchen and luxurious living area perfect for that dual living situation including the upper level family room with wood fire that flows into the new kitchen with stone benchtops, oversize gas range with industrial grill plate, wall oven, timber floors, island seating, and breathtaking outlooks. The top floor bedroom is enriched with its own sunroom.

In addition, there are enticing bedrooms and bathrooms on both levels.

The entry level primary bathroom is complemented with a spa tub ideal after a day working in the garden or from home in one of the many bedrooms that could serves as an idyllic office.

With an extensive list of bonus features including 2 laundry rooms, 2 coolrooms/ cellars including one with large workshop, a private covered terrace on the lower level, and cosy wood fire heating for cooler months in the Hills, this property must be toured in person to appreciate all that is on offer. Truly one-of-a-kind, this magnificent property will provide one fortunate family a fabulous way of life. Plan your viewing today.

· 2,035sqm property with breathtaking views

Versatile interior with kitchens, living areas, and bedrooms on 2 levels ideal multi-generational living.

New kitchen with oversize gas range and inviting island seating

· Lush landscaped gardens with veggie beds and orchard ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

findinthearea.OnlyashortwalktoUpwey’smainstreet,trainstationandlocalschools,this propertyoffersnotonlyawonderfulopportunitytorenovateandcreatetheperfecthome foryouandyourfamilybutalsoboaststheaddedbenefitsofaseparate,onebedroom characterfilledcottage.

SharynChandler M 0439882442| E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

RachelEastwood M 0401117761| E rachel@chandlerandco.com.au

WithinwalkingdistancetoBelgraveMainStreet,BelgraveLakeParkandtrainstationand onlyminutesfrommanylocalschools,thismuchloved&wellsizedfamilyhomehasbeen updatedtoshowcaseHillslivingatitsverybest.Youwillcertainlyfindmorethanone‘wow’ factoratthisproperty–Forstarters,thereisthestunningkitchenwithextendedcupboards, islandbenchand900mmuprightstove.

SharynChandler

M 0439882442| E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

JessLainis

M 0493544981| E jess@chandlerandco.com.au

$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

Withexceptionalpresentationandexquisitetreetopoutlooks,thisimpressiveproperty istheultimateHillsretreat.PositionedforpracticalitystepsfromBaynesPark,Monbulk AquaticCentre,andMainRoadamenities,youwillfeeltuckedawayfrombusylifewithout sacrificingcomfortorconvenience.

SuzieBrannelly

M 0490506910| E suzie@chandlerandco.com.au

Trades & Services

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General Notices

The land affected by the application is located at:

You may view the digital application online at the below website. Simply search by the application number then click on “Documents”. http://yarraranges.vic.gov.au/track or The digital application can also be viewed at any one of the Community Link offices Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm

An objection must include: •The application number and site address.

•The name, address and email of the objector/submitter.

• The reasons for the objection and how the objector would be affected.

Objections can be submitted online at http://yarraranges.vic.gov.au/track. Simply search by the application number then click on “Make a Submission”. If you object, the Responsible Authority will advise you of the decision.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 20 October 2023

Objections can be made (and received) up until the decision date. For further information on the application, or to make an appointment, please contact the Planning Officer, Susan Hartley by email: mail@yarraranges.vic.gov.au

SPORT Athletics back for summer

By Jamie Strudley

After a few quiet weeks post cross country season Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomed members, parents and the community back to the first round of track and field athletics for 202324

Over 250 little athletics started their season at Morrison Reserve on Saturday morning (7 October). Excitement for the summer ahead and an opportunity to catch up with friends from last year made for a fun morning of athletics.We hope all our trialling athletes enjoyed the morning and look forward to seeing you back next weekend.

The senior team travelled to Duncan McKinnon Reserve in Moorabbin for round 1 of the AVSL competition. Athletes generate points for this team based competition based on their event results. The YR Athletics team produced so many superb performances to secure a fourth placed team finish. There are 10 teams in the division including athletics powerhouses teams from Geelong, Knox, Ringwood and Sandringham, we proved we will be a force to reckon with this season.

We also welcomed six new members competing at their first round of AVSL for YRA including Taryn Bourke, Shani Bullard, Erica Purcell, Carolyn Rosenbrock and Ali Coffey. Hope you all enjoyed the day and welcome to team Yarra Ranges Athletics.

Five club records were broken (pending confirmation) by :

· Ashleigh Rooke Women U20 Discus 31.91m,

· Carolyn Rosenbrock Women Open and 40+

3000m Walk 16.29.2,

· Anne-Marie Ebbels Women 40+ Hammer

Throw 25.42m

· Bradley McMeeken Men Para 1500m 6.48.8

Women

· 100m: Ashleigh Rooke 13.43 (0.8);Taryn

Bourke 14.44 (-0.7); Shani Bullard 14.63 (-2.1); Elisabeth Coffey 15.15 (-1.2); Erica

Purcell 16.97 (-2.7);

· 400m: Zoe Clarke 66.11; Ashleigh Rooke

67.29; Rori Jones 67.40; Kristina Nackovski

72.04; Mia Strudley 72.65; Erica Purcell 89.73;

· 1500m: Zoe Clarke 5:08.8h; Rori Jones

5:32.6h; Mia Strudley 5:34.7h; Carolyn Rosenbrock 6:44.2h;

· 1500m Walk: Emilie Garside 8:55.7h;

· 3000m Walk: Carolyn Rosenbrock 16:29.2h;

· Discus: Ashleigh Rooke 31.19m; Hayley Wilkins 24.38m; Meg Sparkes 25.03m; Kathi Hewitson 11.99m; Sharon Cook 16.72m;

· Hammer: Sarah Ebbels 29.00m; Anne-Marie Ebbels 25.42m;

· Javelin: Hayley Wilkins 34.29m; Ashleigh Rooke 25.76m; Meg Sparkes 17.63m; Kathi Hewitson 11.53m; Sharon Cook 10.73m;

· Shot Put: Sarah Ebbels 6.85m; Anne-Marie Ebbels 6.48m;

· Long Jump: Shani Bullard 3.85m; Taryn Bourke 3.32m; Erica Purcell 3.15m; Men

· 100m: Mitchell Mullens 11.28 (-1.4); Liam Russell 12.72 (-1.7); Oliver Duncan 12.85

(-2.8); Joseph Johnston 14.12 (-1.7);

· 400m: Liam Russell 55.14; Oliver Duncan 59.27; Joseph Johnston 65.05; Ash Almond 66.28; Bradley McMeeken 89.68;

· 1500m: Mitchell Pointon 4:44.4h; Alistair Coffey 5:21.6h; Craig Hewitson 5:32.3h; Bradley McMeeken 6:48.8h;

· Discus: Ash Almond 27.43m;

· Javelin: Ash Almond 46.97m; Craig Hewitson 15.81m

· Long Jump: Liam Russell 5.45m; Ash Almond 4.54m; Oliver Duncan 5.13m; Alistair Coffey 3.94m;

Training for six-12 year olds starts Tuesday 10 October from 4pm. Seniors training

(12yo plus) continues on Tuesday and Thursday from 5.30pm at Morrison Reserve. Check the socials and website for more details. Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability.

If you, or someone you know, wants to join in the fun of track and field registration is now open. Go to www.lavic.com.au or www.athsvic.org.au or email info@yarrarangesathletics. org.au for information about events and registration.

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

Tennis marks new season with strong competition

By Joanna Campe

This week marked the start of the Eastern Region Tennis Summer Season which runs from October through to the end of March. This season Lilydale Tennis Club has 17 kids playing in the competition across five teams.

Junior Open Doubles (JOD10) Lilydale v Mooroolbark Heights

Lilydale was represented by Haady Aziz, Nenuka Withanage, Ivy Pieper and Ollie McDonald.

Lilydale played at home this round against Mooroolbark Heights. In a very competitive first round match, it was Mooroolbark Heights that took the win 4 sets to 2 – winning 28 games to Lilydale 24.

the summer season against Mooroolbark Heights. Picture: SUPPLIED

Result: 6-2, 2-6, 6-2, 4-6, 2-6, 4-6 Junior Open Singles Doubles (JOSD4) Lilydale v BYE

This team started the season with a BYE. The

RDCA’s T20 comp revealed

The group stages of the Ringwood District Cricket Association’s T20 competition with 32 teams competing and only one champion to be crowned.

The competition kicks off on 14 November with the group stage, where four teams in each of the eight groups will battle it out to progress.

In Group A, it’s an all-Hills affair with Belgrave, South Belgrave, Ferntree Gully and the Ferntree Gully Footballers.

Group B pits the Upper Yarra sides against each other; Hoddles Creek, Lusatia Park, Seville and Yarra Junction.

Kilsyth, Montrose, Mooroolbark and The Basin are set to clash in Group C while Chirn-

side Park, Croydon North, Lilydale and Mt Evelyn make up Group D. South Warrandyte, Warrandyte, Warranwood and Wonga Park will clash in leafy surroundings in Group E.

Bayswater, Eildon Park, Knox Gardens and Wantirna South are set to take each other on in Group F.

Kerrimur United, Ringwood U18s, St Andrews and Vermont are drawn together in Group G.

Ainslie Park, Croydon Ranges, East Ringwood and Heatherdale will head to the Maroondah Highway to get to their games in Group H.

boys are keen for next week to officially start their season.

Result: BYE

Open Rubbers 19 (OR19) Lilydale Green v Lilydale Blue

Lilydale Green was represented by David Halkidis and Noah Burow and Lilydale Blue was represented by Alex Jerin and Adam Johnson. It was Lilydale v Lilydale in the first-round match. Lilydale Green were too strong on the day taking the win 5 sets to 0 –winning 30 games to 9.

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

Open Rubbers 25 (OR25) v Mooroolbark Heights Green

Lilydale was represented by Levi Daly

and Tim Bassett.

Lilydale played away this round against Mooroolbark Heights.

In a very close and exciting match it was Mooroolbark that won the day overall 3 sets to 2 – winning 23 games to 17.

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

Lilydale Tennis club welcomes all players of any age and ability.

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

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

JOD10 players Haady Aziz, Nenuka Withanage, Ivy Pieper and Ollie McDonald began

Rori Jones finished with a time of 67.40 in the 400m.

Noah lines up for long jump. 365633

Lynx prepares for a discus throw in the return of little aths.

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

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