Mail - Ferntree Gully Star Mail - 5th December 2023

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Labor proposes to abolish Casey electorate

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Monbulk engineering professor Arnold Dix helps rescue 41 Indian workers

Home-grown hero

By Tyler Wright, with Reuters

Arnold Dix (right), from Monbulk, helped build a strategy to rescue 41 Indian men from a collapsed tunnel in the Himalayas.

Picture: AP build several parallel connections between Asia and Europe to give some resilience to the international economy.“ In India, Mr Dix was inside what he called the ‘‘red zone’’; the area the team thought could collapse at any moment.

“I’m one of the principal advisors on the whole thing, but I’m a little different because the Monbulk boy in me tells me I’ve got to work as well, so I’m actually in the field,“ Mr Dix said.

“There was also a huge cavity where the

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Monbulk man Arnold Dix is being lauded for his efforts helping save 41 workers in India after the tunnel they were working in collapsed on 12 November.

Mr Dix, president of the International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association, spent 14 days trying to rescue the men, none of which were injured, after a landslide in the Himalayas caused a section of the 4.5-kilometre tunnel to collapse.

“It’s obviously a bit of a miracle, so I was just over the moon, and in fact; I wanted to video it, but I was so overwhelmed by the whole emotion that I forgot,“ Mr Dix told the Star Mail.

“To see 41 men emerge from what what on most views would have been a tomb, without a drop of blood, no one hurt at all, It’s just fantastic.

“I thought I was in a movie... It was like: ‘Oh, this is so fantastic’.”

Mr Dix, a professor of engineering, said he was contacted by the Indian government while on another operation in Europe to help in the rescue.

“Since the war in Ukraine we’re busy building connections between Asia and Europe, but with a southern route,“ he said.

“I was giving some advice on that southern route as an alternative to coming through Russia, so it was part of the alternative to the Silk Road options; we’re trying to

avalanche had happened; you’ve got to imagine that the mountain had hollowed out and there was a 40-metre tall cave that had formed above where the collapse had occurred, and that was collapsing.

“I’m right in where the avalanche has happened ... I have to put my hands on the walls and listen really carefully to hear what the mountain’s doing, because usually before a collapse, you’ll hear a bit of cracking sound as the rocks start to give way.“ He said there was no obvious way of rescuing the trapped men - who were carried out of the tunnel on stretchers on Tuesday 28 November, more than six hours after rescuers broke through the debris in the tunnel in Uttarakhand state.

Pulled out on wheeled stretchers through a 90cm wide steel pipe, the entire process was completed in about an hour.

Mr Dix said he did not consider the rescue a success until he had seen the 41 men out of the tunnel, describing the scene as a house with doors which are hidden and the people inside invisible.

“We thought that there might be a door at the front which is actually the one we ended up getting but the front door basically involves mining our way through and getting them out through the front door,“ he said.

“We also really importantly got a little window open which was the little pipe that we could fire the food down, so that was really good and that gave us a bit of time.

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IN BRIEF Fatal crash in Monbulk

A chance meeting with some of the rescued tunnelers and there families at the airport flying to Dehli.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Arnold Dix celebrating the day after the rescue with a group of SDRF emergency rescue team by climbing the mountain and paying respects to the local god for good fortune.

Picture: SUPPLIED

A home-grown hero From page 1 “There was a back method where we would come in the other end of the tunnel and then burrow with a small tunnel and come in the back of where they were, that was an option but my assessment was it was too dangerous because the tunnel itself at the back I thought was also prone to collapse; then there was the side option which was getting a tunnel boring machine and launching it from the side and then coming across a bit like Thunderbirds.

In the end, crews performed pipe jacking; hand mining inside a 800 mm, 60-metre long home made metal pipe through wreckage and “millions of tonnes of rock,” Mr Dix said.

“We had all those options on the table but we were constantly balancing the risk of catastrophic collapse killing the people inside and us, so that would have been a bad news day in Monbulk if I hadn’t come home, because I wouldn’t have been able to go to the op shop and get all the big blokes clothes to wear,“ Mr Dix said.

Despite reporting some health issues after living in marginal conditions, eating dubious food and feeling worse for wear, Mr Dix - the self proclaimed “worst flower grower in Monbulk“ is preparing to return home to the Dandenong Ranges.

“I’ve got some big plans; I’ve got to fix the fence around the chickens because the fox got in, I’ve got to do the lawns because they’ve got long and my wife’s got hay fever,“ he said.

“I know the gutters are clean because summer’s coming and we’ve got to get all our water tanks full; these are my three major priorities when I get home.“ Mr Dix said he loves living in Monbulk because of the “quirky“ nature of the town, moving to the area at a young age.

“I’ve worked all around the world but I al-

A landslide in the Himalayas caused a section of the 4.5-kilometre tunnel to collapse and began a 17-day rescue operation. PIcture: AP

Rescuees celebrating after their release.

Picture: AP

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash in Monbulk on the evening of Saturday 2 December.

Investigators believe a man was driving along the Monbulk Road when he veered from the road about 6.30pm.

It appears the car left the road and travelled down an embankment and crashed into a tree.

The man, yet to be formally identified, died at the scene.

The exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined and police will prepare a report for the Coroner.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or was in the vicinity of the crash with dashcam is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au 272 lives have been lost on Victoria’s roads so far this year, with 226 lives lost on the state’s roads this time last year.

For the current provisional lives lost tally, see police.vic.gov.au/road-safety-0

Fire danger period reminder The fire danger period will be enforced for residents of the Yarra Ranges, Maroondah and Knox from mid-December.

CFA has announced fire restrictions for the three Local Government Areas (LGAs) beginning 1am on Monday 18 December.

Once the fire danger period has begun, fires cannot be lit in open air without a permit from CFA or a municipal fire prevention officer.

Fire danger periods are based on local conditions and take into account fuel moisture, fuel loads, weather and rainfall.

Residents are encouraged to burn off any garden waste they wish to prior to 18 December and when doing so to register their burnoff online at firepermits.vic.gov.au, by calling 1800 668 511 or by filling out a Burn Off Notification Form and emailing it to burnoffs@esta. vic.gov.au If you have any green waste to dispose of once the Fire Danger Period is in place, please do so by placing it in your FOGO bin.

The fire danger period for the three LGAs is expected to end on 1 May 2024.

Operation spots distracted drivers

Enginners Colnel Prakshit and Colnel Joshi with Mr Dix in their army camp tent around a kerosine heater.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Rescuers pipe jacked with hand mining through the wreckage of millions of tonnes of rock.

Picture: SUPPLIED

ways go home to Monbulk to my little Monbulkian farm,“ he said.

“I do serious stuff and hang out in Monbulk in my neoprene gum boots, so that’s part of the lovely work-life balance that I have.

“I actually drove trucks for Nishiki Nursery, because I couldn’t go to work, and they’re really nice and I spray weeds for people because I like it, I like helping people out.“ For Mr Dix, the rescue was a triumph of

good people doing good things in a time of adversity.

“Everyone’s so nice, and we all worked so well together, and we basically did the impossible.

“I might have annoyed everybody because I went playing with my emergency friends up the mountain; I missed my chopper and my phone wouldn’t work because I was at the top of the Himalayas.“

Police have spotted more than 80 motorists using their mobile phones while driving during a recent road policing operation across Melbourne.

Operation Spotto, conducted by State Highway Patrol, saw police targeting distractionrelated offences, particularly the use of mobile phones and devices whilst driving, as well as seatbelt non-compliance.

Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said they’re seeing distraction contributing to far too many fatal and serious injury collisions this year.

“Yet in two days we’ve caught 86 people using their phones and devices while driving.

The most frustrating part is, when our members are speaking with offenders, they’re all well aware that what they’re doing is wrong,” he said.

“Driving should not be secondary to using a mobile phone or device – it requires your complete attention.”

The penalty for using a mobile phone or device while driving is $577 and four demerit points.

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Safer Places

Current MPs will hold their role until the next federal election, with one less seat up for grabs in the House of Representatives when the nation next Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS goes to vote. 377037

Labor wants Casey electorate dumped

By Tyler Wright The Federal Labor government has put forward a plan to abolish the electorate of Casey, pushing neighbouring electorates into Upwey, Tecoma, Lilydale, Warburton and the Dandenongs.

The redistribution of federal electoral boundaries, which has occurred due to a decline in the state’s relative population compared to other states, will reduce Victoria’s representation from 39 seats to 38.

This means in the next election, there will be 150 members of the House of Representatives, down one from the current 151 seats.

In its suggestion published on Monday 27 November, the Labor Party has proposed the seat of Casey - which encompasses all towns in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges except Gembrook and parts of Cockatoo-Emerald, which sit in the neighbouring electorate of La Trobe- be the one abolished.

The proposal will see the electorate of Aston - which currently lies exclusively in the Knox municipality - creep up into Upwey and Tecoma.

The seat of McEwen will expand to the Upper Yarra areas of Warburton, Wandin and Seville and across to Olinda, Mount Dandenong, Belgrave, Selby and Casey’s share of EmeraldCockatoo while shedding its share of Mitchell Shire.

On the other hand, the Liberal Party of Australia, who did not submit their official plan by deadline, has put forward the idea to abolish the electorate of Maribyrnong in inner Metropolitan Melbourne and creating a new seat called Peacock named after the first woman elected to the Victorian Parliament, Lady Millie Peacock.

Peacock would replace the seat of Melbourne and move the electorate north, taking in Richmond and Collingwood.

With Casey abolished, the Menzies electorate would need to move east under Labor’s plan, collecting the adjoining suburbs of Chirnside and Mooroolbark.

Deakin would also become anchored on Maroondah Highway and Canterbury Road, the two key links between metropolitan Melbourne through to the Yarra Valley.

Lilydale and Montrose, which sit at the end of these two roads, would then lie in the Deakin electorate, with Kooyong set to expand.

Casey MP Aaron Violi said the most disappointing thing about Labor’s proposal is the 4 MAIL

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

show of “complete disregard and lack of understanding“ about the community.

“To think that a township like Warburton or Seville or Belgrave has anything in common with a community like Mill Park or Doreen just shows a lack of understanding about the special and unique community that is the Yarra Valley, the Dandenong Ranges and the beautiful area that is made up of Casey,“ Mr Violi said.

According to the ABC’s Chief Election Analyst Antony Green, based on past redistribution timelines the process of drawing new boundaries should be completed by early July 2024, in time for use at the next election.

Mr Violi said he isn’t thinking about the possibility of running as a candidate in the seats of Deakin, Aston or McEwen to stay in the House of Representatives if Casey is abolished.

“The reality is it’s a political submission by the ALP; history says that the AEC [Australian Electoral Commission] as an independent organisation, while they look at submissions, they’ll make their own decisions, so I’m not thinking about that,“ Mr Violi said.

“I’m focused on making sure that I spend every day being a strong voice for the residents of Casey, and making sure that our issues are heard in Canberra.

“I’ll continue to make sure people understand that we are a special and unique community and we map very closely or almost identically the Shire of Yarra Ranges for a reason.“ Mr Violi said the political parties and independents make submissions with their own political interests in mind.

“I do take it as a little bit of a compliment that the Labor Party feel that they weren’t able to beat me at the last election and they’ve decided to try and abolish the seat, but that’s the politics of it.

“We’re a unique community; the Upper Yarra, Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges, suburban areas of Lilydale, Mooroolbark, Chirnside Park and Kilsyth and Mount Evelyn.

“It’s a connected community whether it’s sporting clubs like the footy or the RDCA [cricket], there’s so many areas that are connected and a lot of our farmers live in our suburban areas and travel out to the farms to their wineries or to the tourism businesses that they work in, so to think that our community has anything in common with Mill Park or Doreen is just quite disrespectful to our community.

“The politics of it is understandable but dis-

appointing that [Labor] have such disregard for our community.“ Multiple submissions have suggested the electorate name of Casey, a nod to Richard Casey who served as Governor-General of Australia for four years between 1965 and 1969, be changed to Barak; referencing Aboriginal leader William Barak who advocated for an Aboriginal settlement that came to be known as Coranderrk near Healesville in 1863.

Mr Violi said constituents have raised the idea of a name change to a local Indigenous person of influence.

“Richard Casey is a distinguished Australian who achieved a lot and the name was well deserved, so I would be very happy and very comfortable if it remained at the seat of Casey, but I can certainly understand and have some agreement with supporting a name change to an Indigenous name, particularly William Barak, or to recognise the Wandin family,“ he said.

“It was raised in some of the submissions that there is sometimes some confusion between the federal seat of Casey and the City of Casey as a local government area, so I can understand those.

“For me, whether the seat is called Casey or whether it’s called something else, the most important thing is that we have since 1977 had a seat that has been centred on Lilydale and the surrounding suburbs and the surrounding areas like the Yarra Valley and the Upper Yarra, and we need to continue to have that because it is a unique community that’s been recognised for over 50 years.“ Members of the House of Representatives elected at the 2022 federal election, and in federal by-elections since that time, will continue to represent their respective electoral divisions until the next federal election, the AEC has confirmed.

The public has until 6pm AEDT on Friday 8 December 2023 to lodge written comments on the suggestions.

The Redistribution Committee will then review all ideas, suggestions, and comments, and release the proposed division names and boundaries in early to mid 2024.

People can submit a suggestion online by visiting the VIC redistribution page at aec. gov.au/Electorates/Redistributions/2023/vic, posting to the Redistribution Committee for Victoria, Australian Electoral Commission, Locked Bag 4007, Canberra ACT 2601 or via fax at 02 6215 9970.

Yarra Ranges Council confirmed the status of Neighbourhood Safer Places – Places of Last Resort within the municipality at the council meeting on 28 November.

The report to the council shows that all Neighbourhood Safer Places – Places of Last Resort meet CFA safety guidelines and will be open for the community during the 2023/2024 fire season.

This includes all 18 Neighbourhood Safer Places – Places of Last Resort, and three Community Fire Refuges commissioned by Emergency Management Victoria.

Yarra Ranges Council Deputy Mayor, David Eastham emphasised the importance of maintaining these 18 sites.

“Yarra Ranges Council is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its community through proactive bushfire preparedness measures. The designated Neighbourhood Safer Places – Places of Last Resort play a crucial role in providing a last resort for residents during emergency situations,” Cr Eastham said.

“Confirming the status of these Bushfire Shelter options isn’t just a formality; it’s a message to our community that we’re ready, we’re watching, and we’re keeping our residents safe and giving them an accessible place to turn to when the fire danger is high.”

Updated signage has been installed to improve accessibility and was commended by the CFA as an innovative addition to the Yarra Ranges Neighbourhood Safer Places – Places of Last Resort sites.

Residents and visitors are reminded that Neighbourhood Safer Places – Places of Last Resort are areas of last resort during a bushfire emergency, they can be used when all other options in your bushfire survival plan can’t be put into action safely.

They are areas of open space such as ovals or built-up areas that are away from bushland.

Scroll down for a full list of locations in the Yarra Ranges or click visit the Community Fire Refuge & Neighbourhood Safer Places site for a map view, which can be found here: yarraranges. vic.gov.au/Environment/Emergencies/ Preparing-for-an-emergency/Community-Fire-Refuge-Neighbourhood-SaferPlaces Lilydale Recreation Reserve, Lilydale Lillydale Lake, Lilydale Yarra Hills Secondary College, Mount Evelyn Halley Supple Recreation Reserve Oval, Coldstream Wandin North Recreation Reserve Oval. Wandin North Yarra Glen Racing Club. Yarra Glen Monbulk Recreation Reserve Oval, Monbulk Woori Yallock Recreation Reserve Oval, Woori Yallock Upwey Recreation Reserve, Upwey Alexanders Car Park, Belgrave Belgrave Recreation Oval, Belgrave Dandenong Ranges Community Cultural Centre Burrinja Car Park, Upwey RACV Healesville Country Club Underground Car Park, Healesville, Dixons Creek Recreation Reserve Oval Area, Dixons Creek Queens Park, Healesville Yarra Junction Recreation Reserve Oval, Yarra Junction Millgrove Recreation Reserve, Millgrove Warburton Recreation Reserve, Warburton Council works collaboratively with Victoria Police, and the Country Fire Authority (CFA) in ensuring these sites are maintained and suitable for community use.

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Call to leave Deakin as is

By Mikayla van Loon With the federal electoral boundaries set to change in Victoria as at the next election, there’s been a push in one local government area to keep the boundaries the same.

Maroondah City Council and the Maroondah Business Group (MBG), in the federal electorate of Deakin, put forward submissions to the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) to remain within this boundary.

Requesting the AEC to understand the importance of a geographical area like Maroondah to be represented by one member of parliament, MBG chair Jenny Newman submitted a suggestion on behalf of the group’s traders.

“Our organisation represents businesses in Maroondah City Council and surrounds, we have a vested interest in ensuring the most streamlined representation and advocacy. This is best achieved when we are able to advocate to a single member of parliament and one council,” Ms Newman told Star Mail.

“Matters like local planning, infrastructure and grants often gather a great deal of attention from Federal MPs, their advocacy can be the difference between a project going ahead or not. Familiarity with a local MP helps provide a clear direction for the local area.”

MBG represents business across the two major trading centres of Ringwood and Croydon, as well as extending to Croydon North, Wonga Park, Warranwood, Park Orchards and Heathmont.

“Our vision is to unite the 9000 businesses in Maroondah through a shared purpose of business growth, promotion and sustainability,” the MBG submission reads.

Maroondah City Council put forward a similar submission, saying “Deakin currently meets and is projected to meet, the division elector threshold requirements both now and moving forward” “Maroondah City Council is of the view that

Business groups and Maroondah Council have made a push to keep Deakin as is. as a guiding principle, the Australian Electoral Commission should ensure that communities of interest are not split, and portions of the community are not disadvantaged through dislocation from natural/geographic/population centres of attraction.

“Council notes that the municipal City of Maroondah is fully enclosed within the current Deakin division, including the major activity centres of Ringwood and Croydon. This division enables the single federal representative for all constituents within the Maroondah community.”

Both entities commended the AEC on unit-

ing the municipality under the one electoral boundary over the course of redistribution in 2018 and 2021.

“The AEC has worked well to unite Maroondah City Council into a single electorate over the past two redistributions. This has resulted in better representation for local businesses,” Ms Newman said.

“MBG and in the past Ringwood and Croydon Chambers have submitted our views which we believe has contributed to better electoral boundaries for our area.”

Under the proposal, the abolishment of Casey would see the Deakin electorate ex-

Picture: AEC pand to cover other major centres like Lilydale, Mooroolbark and Kilsyth.

MBG also made the suggestion that should Deakin grow its current borders, to encapsulate the townships of Wonga Park and/or Park Orchards because of the connections already established by physical linkages like Warrandyte State Park and Mullum Mullum Creek.

Maroondah City Council and Manningham Council were the only two to make submissions in the state, with 63 suggestions submitted in total to the AEC. Yarra Ranges Council is said to be discussing its position on the redistribution, including the potential abolishment of Casey.

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Baby died from head injury CONTENT WARNING - THIS ARTICLE MENTIONS TOPICS READERS MAY FIND DISTRESSING

By Tyler Wright The Coroners Court of Victoria has released its findings into the death of a nine-week old infant who died by infanticide in 2021, without inquest.

Lily Grace Arbuckle, who lived with parents Melissa and Jed Arbuckle in Upwey, was struck by a train on the tracks between Belgrave Railway Station and Tecoma Railway Station on 11 July 2021, after her mum placed her on one of the train tracks in the path of the train before she was thrown underneath.

State Coroner, Judge John Cain, found in his finding delivered on 23 November 2023 that Melissa had no reported history of alcohol or illicit substance abuse.

“There is no family history of mental illness,” Judge Cain wrote in his findings.

“Prior to the birth of her daughter Lily, Melissa had no reported or known history of mental illness, suicidality or self-harm.”

Judge Cain said Melissa and her partner Jed met in 2015 when they were both students at Melbourne University, before getting married in 2019 and purchasing a house together in Upwey.

Melissa qualified as a veterinarian and spent a few years in clinical practice before working in pet health sales with Blackmores, according to documents.

“During the course of the Covid-19 pandemic, the couple decided to try for a baby and Melissa became pregnant in July 2020,” the judge said.

Melissa’s pregnancy is said to have been uncomplicated despite Lily’s birth being by emergency caesarean section due to a “prolonged labour period”.

Lily was born on 4 April 2021, after which Melissa experienced a “number of issues” breastfeeding her daughter, as well as experiencing postnatal depression between the time of Lily’s birth and July 2021.

In May, Melissa advised she had attended her General Practitioner and scored 11 on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and planned to be reviewed by her GP in two weeks time.

The coroner said Melissa raised lactation concerns with a lactation consultant, Dr Joanna Strybosch, throughout June that year.

Dr Strybosh advised later in court that her ‘formal education in perinatal mental health was scant at best,’ and she did not ‘recall learning about [postnatal psychosis] in any detail at all in either my training as an osteopath or as a lactation consultant’.

Both Lily and Melissa had also been provided with maternal child health services by the Yarra Ranges Maternal and Child Health Services (MCH); starting on 13 April 2021 when Lily was nine days old.

Postnatal depression was discussed during this home visit, with Jed and Melissa both deemed ’well’.

Melissa and Lily then attended at MCH Centre for an appointment on 27 April 2021 for a four week consult; during which a mental health and wellbeing screen was conducted and Melissa noted that she was not feeling ‘down, depressed or hopeless,’ the coroner found.

Severe storms in June 2021 meant Melissa relocated to her aunt-in-law’s residence in Melbourne due to power being cut in the Upwey area; causing her “more stress” due to Lily becoming more unsettled.

After reporting at later consultations that she had ’really struggled’ during these times, Melissa also mentioned that she was ’still teary’ and felt overwhelmed and distressed during Lily’s birth due to her urgent caesarean section.

“On 5 July 2021, Melissa became alarmed about a rash on Lily’s leg and about her perception of Lily having lost condition in her leg and having a weaker cry.

“The couple took Lily to Angliss Hospital to be examined and were discharged with medical staff noting no remarkable findings.“ But Melissa did not accept this advice, according to the coroner, and became “increasingly convinced“ something was wrong with 6 MAIL

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

The Coroners Court of Victoria has handed down its findings into the 2021 death of nine-week old baby Lily Grace Arbuckle. her daughter.

On 7 July 2021, Jed asked a neighbour to check on Melissa because of his concern about her mental state.

On that same day, Melissa made a list of all the signs that she perceived in Lily, and became preoccupied with concerns that she had somehow injured her daughter.

“Melissa told her husband the day before her daughter’s death on 10 July 2021, that she had not been sleeping due to her concerns about what she might have done to Lily and that she was having suicidal thoughts,” the report read.

It was also revealed Melissa drafted and completed a suicide note and had “numerous social media conversations” with friends expressing anxiety about “medical issues relating to herself and Lily, lactation issues, feeling stressed without electricity at home and feeling inadequately support and worried about Lily’s wellbeing”.

On 11 July 2021, Melissa took Lily for a walk at around 10.30am, with family members visiting the house throughout the course of the day.

Later in the afternoon, family visitors had left by 4pm and Jed had left to play tennis.

Melissa left the house pushing Lily in her pram, sending a message to Jed at 4.18pm that read: ’Muffin was losing it after a feed,’ and said she was intending to go for a walk with Lily as her mother and sister had left.

On her walk, Melissa searched for information about train timetables.

She then took Lily from the pram, holding her at chest height and using her hand to wave at an approaching train; seen by a train driver standing at the top of the Kumbada Avenue.

“At 5.06pm, Melissa was seen by a train driver holding Lily about six to 10 metres from the track,“ documents say.

“The train driver activated his train whistle as a warning when he realised that her manner was suspicious when she was about five metres from the track.

“He then activated the train’s full emergency braking system.“ After placing Lily on one of the train tracks in the path of the train, Melissa attempted to lay down on her side on the train track and they were then both struck by the train.

Melissa was seriously injured and suffered multiple fractures to her shoulder, neck and other injuries to the right side of her body.

Emergency services were contacted and Ambulance paramedics transported Melissa to the Royal Melbourne Hospital and Lily to the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Attempts to resuscitate Lily were unsuccessful and she was pronounced deceased later that night.

After Lily’s death, one of the MCH nurse’s engaged with Melissa, and according to documents noted during the conversation that Melissa had asked why there was not ‘a question

there asking me if I want to hurt my baby?’ in reference to the EPDS. Reportedly, the nurse agreed that this should be asked but ‘did not ask Melissa whether it was something she wanted to talk about’.

Forensic Pathologist Dr Linda Iles from the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, who conducted the autopsy, decided Lily’s medical cause of death was from a head injury, which was accepted by the coroner.

Lily’s death was reported to the coroner as it fell within the definition of a reportable death in the Coroners Act 2008; which includes deaths that are unexpected, unnatural or violent or result from accident or injury.

The relationship between Melissa and her daughter Lily was one that fell within the definition of ‘family member’ under the Family Violence Protection Act 2008, with Melissa’s actions in placing Lily on dangerous train tracks constituting family violence.

In April 2022, Melissa was convicted of infanticide; a criminal offence that is committed by a mother who was found to have murdered her child due to having not recovered from giving birth, or due to a disorder she had developed as a result of the child birth, in the Supreme Court of Victoria.

In his statement to the Court, Jed made repeated references to indicators that Melissa may have been experiencing postnatal anxiety or depression following their daughter’s birth, including; Melissa was ‘very anxious to be the perfect mum’, ‘she was always anxious about whether she was on the right thing. I don’t think she was ever satisfied that she was doing it right and she was always trying to improve things’ and ‘she didn’t give herself a break and she didn’t have anything to fall on to to take her mind off it. She was a bit obsessive about it and started to see things that weren’t there’. “‘About two weeks ago, Melissa was really down. She was really worried she had been shaking the bassinet too vigorously…over the weekend Melissa was really worried about her (Lily),“ Jed said in his statement.

Melissa reportedly advised Jed that she would not carry through with plans of suicide because of the consequences for him. “‘I took it a bit naively because I didn’t think she would actually do anything, I was applying logic to it but it wasn’t logical,’“ Jed said in his statement.

According to the coroner, Jed’s statement suggests that he was “unclear of the seriousness of the situation“ and the impact that these experiences were having on Melissa’s wellbeing.

A message to a neighbour who had been supporting Melissa, from Jed, read: ‘I don’t really know the best way forward at this point, but I think it involves getting professional help for Melissa as you suggested the other day’.

Melissa was released on an adjourned undertaking of good behaviour for three years and continual mental health treatment.

Picture: ON FILE

On 9 January 2023, 33-year-old Melissa was found dead at a truck stop on Princes Highway in Flynn after taking a mix of drugs including propranolol, oxycodone, diazepam, temazepam, lurasidone and duloxetine.

She had purchased a home in Traralgon in November 2022, where she planned to move in mid-2023 with her partner Hayden Brook, after the pair struck up a new relationship together in April 2022.

In his recommendations to the coroner’s report, Judge Cain suggested the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners review their requirements for lactation consultant accreditation and ensure that they must have undertaken education that includes a demonstrated understanding of postnatal mental health, how to identify mental health risks and making referrals for appropriate supports to qualify for accreditation.

He also recommended the Victorian Department of Health - Maternal and Child Health Services, introduce a process to ensure supervisors are “automatically alerted“ if a primary caregiver scores 13 or above on an Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), so supervisors can ensure that a plan is in place for managing the risk posed to the primary caregiver and their child.

“With the aim of improving public health and safety, I recommend that the Victorian Department of Health - Maternal and Child Health Services provide staff with regular training to ensure that they are familiar with the need to query infant safety following completion of question 10 of the EPDS,“ he said.

“This education should be supported by ensuring that discussions of client responses to this question forms a part of regular clinical supervision.

It was also recommended the department of health require health services to engage with secondary carers on at least one occasion in the pre-natal period for the purposes of providing education around signs and symptoms of post-natal depression, anxiety and psychosis and options for support, noting that this engagement should only occur after permission is sought from the primary carer to do so.

“With the aim of improving the public health and safety, I recommend that the Victorian Department of Health - Maternal and Child Health Services introduce an additional consultation into the key ages and stages framework that requires MCH Nurses to proactively engage with the secondary carer for the purposes of providing education around signs and symptoms of post-natal depression, anxiety and psychosis and options for support, noting that this engagement should only occur after permission is sought from the primary carer to do so.“ Judge Cain conveyed his condolences to Lily’s family for their loss.

If you or anyone you know needs support call Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800, Lifeline 131 114, or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636. mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Wild dogs wreak havoc

By Callum Ludwig Increasing wild dog activity in the Upper Yarra is concerning residents who have seen livestock and native animals killed.

The Upper Yarra is included within Agriculture Victoria’s Gembrook, Noojee and Erica wild dog management zone which outlines the plans and capacity for management efforts in the area.

Don Valley resident Kevin Greenwood said it’s been an ongoing problem that is getting worse and worse each year.

“Myself and the neighbouring properties are losing a lot of livestock, just on my property alone they have killed as many as 30 lambs and sheep in the past month,” he said.

“We’ve lived here for 30 years and we’ve seen this problem go in a cycle where the dogs aren’t being managed and they build up, the size of the packs grow and the size of the dogs themselves grow,” “Years ago they were chasing the children on the motorbikes and one time actually pulled a farmer off his tractor around the corner from us and mauled him very badly, that hasn’t happened this time around but we can foresee we are in exactly the same cycle.”

Mr Greenwood has been recently shooting wild dogs on his property, as well as foxes to protect his sheep and in frustration, has hung the dog corpses on his fence to try and bring light to the problem, a common practice among farmers and livestock owners when a pest animal, such as wild dogs or foxes, are wreaking havoc. He received a call asking him to remove the dead animals due to the confronting nature of the practice.

It’s not just livestock the wild dogs are targeting because as Mr Greenwood said, if you can name an animal, he’s shot them while they are eating it.

“I’ve lived in the area all my life and for a long period of time, it was the release site for koalas from Phillip Island and overpopulation areas, and to give you an idea, the local primary school was always there on the day they came out when they used to release the koalas but when the wild dogs built up, they annihilated the koala population,” he said.

“You’re lucky to see a koala now or a goanna and a lot of other species which were very prominent, I’ve seen them eating everything from full-grown cattle carcasses right down to platypuses in their mouth, field rats, birds, owls and lizards.”

The Gembrook, Noojee and Erica wild dog management zone includes the townships of Avonsleigh, Badger Creek, Beenak, Big Pats Creek, Cambarville, Cockatoo, Coldstream, Don Valley, East Warburton, Fernshaw, Gembrook, Gilderoy, Gladysdale, Gruyere, Healesville, Hoddles Creek, Launching Place, McMahons Creek, Millgrove, Mount Toolebewong, Narbethong, Powelltown, Reefton, Seville, Seville East, Three Bridges, Toolangi, Warburton, Wesburn, Woori Yallock, Yarra Junction and Yellingbo in the Yarra Ranges.

It contains 287,020 hectares of public land, 155,024 hectares of land protected by the three-kilometre livestock protection buffer

Wild dogs are attacking livestock and native animals in the Yarra Ranges. and 89,717 hectares of private land.

For 2023-2024, the plan states that the area is monitored by one Wild Dog Controller and can facilitate 3000 trap nights and 109 kilometres of targeted ground baiting transects to target wild dogs, though none of the 109km is in the Yarra Ranges. Lots of the Yarra Ranges is slated for trapping in response to wild dog reports and can only use baiting in rare situations.

In Agriculture Victoria’s Gembrook, Noojee and Erica Wild Dog Management Zone Work Plan 2023-2024, it states that 1080 and PAPP bait products are the ‘most cost-effective and

Picture: ON FILE

strategic method of wild dog control’ in areas where baiting programs are permitted.

“Control staff routinely respond to reports of wild dog activity in the Yarra Ranges and will continue to work with land managers and the community to implement control techniques on public and private land,” a Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) spokesperson said.

Other lethal methods of wild dog control outlined in the plan include trapping and shooting (recommended only for the removal of dogs from an area or property) as well as non-lethal methods such as exclusion fencing,

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Residents who see wild dog activity or experience a wild dog attack must phone the local Senior Wild Dog Controller (SWDC) Dwayne Needham at 0429 667 868 to formally lodge an incident report, leaving a message if direct contact isn’t made. The SWDC will return any phone calls within 24 hors, excluding weekends.

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MAIL 7

NEWS

Growth prompts fire fear

By Tyler Wright A local family has raised concerns about vegetation growing in a gully behind their Belgrave Heights home, labelling the condition of the bushes a “bushfire risk”.

The family, who chose not to be named, said the gully, which runs 30 metres across their property and about three or four metres deep is “thick with weeds“ and has not been properly maintained.

They said CFA, and Yarra Ranges Council who manages the land - has claimed the vegetation is just “wet undergrowth“ and will not clear it from the gully.

“It is now overgrown and they claim that it’s only got ground cover on it,“ the family said.

“It has been a wet season, but now they’re saying we’re going to have a hot summer, and if we have a hot summer and all of that growth dries out and a fire starts in there, it will be a real danger to all the houses on either side.

“There’s 20 houses backing onto this gully from both sides, which will all be under threat if it was to happen.“ They said the ground fuel is as high as the gully.

“On Ash Wednesday, the gully didn’t have anything to hold it in; there wasn’t anything left in the gully and it didn’t collapse - it’s just overgrown.”

Yarra Ranges Council’s director of planning and sustainable futures, Kath McClusky, said council staff have engaged with a “number of residents” whose properties border the gully, offering professional advice on past and future vegetation management efforts.

“In recent months, regional CFA vegetation management staff also attended one of these meetings to provide additional professional advice to the resident,” Ms McClusky said.

“Over the past decade, Council has actively pursued vegetation reduction measures in

Overgrowth at a gully behind residential property in Belgrave Heights has caused concern for a local family. 376508 partnership with District 13 CFA, consistently maintaining the area at a lower risk level through annual pre-fire season initiatives and year-round vegetation management.

“The approach in managing vegetation growth is influenced by the gully’s steep terrain, which is prone to slumping, necessitating a balance in vegetation for soil stability.”

Ms McClusky said the area’s “riparian classification” and “above-average moisture levels” are also key factors.

“Council utilises State Government en-

dorsed assessment tools to assess risks and prioritise fuel reduction in areas closest to residents’ homes,” she said.

“The safety of our community is a top priority for Council, and we collaborate closely with District CFA to implement vegetation management burns (fuel reduction burns), ensuring a proactive approach to bushfire preparedness.

“Additionally, we consistently engage in the ongoing preparation and management of sites throughout the year to manage fuel loads.”

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

At the last council meeting, Ms McClusky said, all 18 designated Neighbourhood Safer Places - Places of Last Resort, while include three Community Fire Refuges commissioned

by Emergency Management Victoria, have been “thoroughly assessed” and are confirmed as ready to serve as last resorts for the community during the upcoming 2023/2024 fire season.

CFA would not provide comment to the Star Mail due to the land in question being managed by Yarra Ranges Council.

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NEWS

Quarry to become estate

By Gabriella Vukman Knox city councillors moved the motion to convert Ferntree Gully’s Norvel Road Quarry into a housing estate, overriding requests for a park and playground in the domain.

At the council meeting on Monday 27 October, the amendment and planning permit application levelled by was given the go ahead.

Seeking to transform the Norvel Road Quarry and Special Use Zone in Ferntree Gully into a residential and public conservation purpose zone, the application also put forward a subdivision of the site into 138 lots and road reserves.

Eight social housing properties along with various public trails through the area were also a part of the proposed package.

Of the 31 submissions received by the council concerning the quarry’s development, six represented general support for the proposal, with the others expressing a mixture of queries, concerns and disapproval for the project.

Requests for a reserve with play equipment to be included in the development and protection of the adjoining bushland reserve and the restriction of public access to it were a prominent feature among the submissions.

Objections to the location of the wetland reserve and proposed residential lots in proximity to bushland vegetation as well as requests for improvements to Norvel Road were also expressed among the submissions.

Submissions supporting the proposal welcomed the development on the basis that it offered economical housing opportunities.

The Council officer’s response to the qualms surrounding a reserve and play equipment surmised that the “Council cannot request additional land for the purpose of public open space. Importantly, it is worth noting that residents would have access to Norvel Road Reserve.”

The old Ferntree Gully Quarry site is set to be home to new housing. 376879 Seeing as the Knox Planning Scheme only requires subdividers to contribute a percentage of the total land area or a combination of land and funding, the proposal satisfies the minimum land requirement of 8.5 per cent.

Council officers also confirmed that “in addition, residents will have access to a park (of any category) within an approximate 10-minute walk or 500 metres, as sought by Knox’s Play Space Plan 2013-2023.”

In response to concerns about conserva-

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

tion, it was confirmed that “where vegetation removal is necessary, it is limited to the southern edge of the bushland, where fire management measures are required.”

It was also established that one of the lots currently encroaches on tree protection zones.

Actions in response to submissions included new fencing along existing residential lots, amendments to the draft permit conditions for correct landscape plans and the inclusion of native species as well as funding for signage

for the bushland reserve among others.

Further it was confirmed in Monday’s meeting minutes that the proposal “is considered to have no direct implications or has no direct impacts upon Council’s Net Zero 2030 target, the Community Net Zero 2040, exposure to climate risks or climate change adaptation.”

Moving forward, officers recommended that submissions be presented before a panel and that various changes be made to the current proposal.

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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MAIL 9

NEWS

More than 2,300 pieces of feedback were submitted on the draft Monbulk UDF. 313049

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

‘Yes’ to Monbulk UDF

By Tyler Wright Yarra Ranges Council has adopted the Monbulk Urban Design Framework (UDF) which will help guide the council’s decision making and project priorities for Monbulk in the coming years.

The draft document received more than 2,300 pieces of feedback during the community consultation phase, and from that, more than 20 changes and recommendations were made to create the final document.

While the UDF was adopted, an alternate motion was made which was to update the final document with a removal of the annotation referring to “Potential future residential development” at the north-west corner of the proposed village green, following community feedback.

Some of the changes resulting from the community feedback include: Consolidating and improving pedestrian crossings in Main Road Introducing an improved intersection treatment at the east end of Main Road Provision of additional car park locations, and Identifying a location for a new pump track opposite McAllister Road.

Stan Giles spoke against the motion. suggesting the council had not listened to volunteer community groups during the consultation process.

“MADCOW [Monbulk and District Community Working Group]’s, the instigator of the whole project, final preferred choice for the use of the open land is now no building, completely at odds to what the council proposed,“ Mr Giles said.

“They prefer a public space and an amphitheatre used by the locals in the same ideal atmosphere and key space that people from inner Melbourne come to Monbulk and the

· · · ·

Dandenongs to experience and enjoy; it’s why most of the residents live in Monbulk.

“Planners, when asked, stated they hadn’t noticed this disparity in how their options were displayed on board at the public meetings, with the council preferred option four times the size of all others, and that the wishes of this local volunteer group who actually started the project was actually not in favour; that they were being ignored.“ Co-president of the MADCOW, Aimee Teboekhorst, who spoke in support of the item, said consultation has been broadened adequately throughout the community.

“I was part of the [session] at MADCOW, we opened that up to the entire community; we have 129 just on our own email list, and we had probably close to 50 people that attended that meeting, and it was really well done by council,” Ms Teboekhorst said.

“We’ve been really open and transparent in our advertising out to the community, and also there was letters sent out, and there were also multiple drop -in centres in the community to hear the community talk.

Ms Teboekhorst spoke against the future development option in the green space.

“MADCOW has a representation from the Rotary Club, we have a representation from the police, we have a representation from the CFA, we have a representation from the Monbulk produce market, from the tribe youth organisation, from the traders association, there are general community members as well and the RSL,“ she said.

“From the beginning, we’ve lobbied to have an open community green space free of housing and our stance stays firm on this.

“If we allow for future housing on this space, it will hinder the ability to build structures on certain areas and will not achieve the outcome that the community would like to see in Monbulk.”

Ms Teboekhorst also shared a note from Jenny Holmes, chair of the board of the Monbulk Bowling Club, who supported the document without the proposed housing on the green space.

“They are pleased with the parking on the southern side of the bowling club, and they would like council officers to ensure that the angle parking does not prohibit the driveway.”

Chandler Ward Councillor David Eastham thanked the community for their input into the document.

“Given the substantial amount of interest and feedback into the UDF, there’s been a lot to collate, but I can’t thank the community enough for getting involved and sharing their thoughts, ideas and concerns with us,” Cr Eastham said.

“The feedback was broad and wide-ranging, so much so that you can see in the consultation report there are 20 different themes that this feedback filtered into.”

A number of the key actions identified in the UDF would be subject to future community engagement in the future.

“Now it’s adopted, the UDF will be used as a tool to advocate to different levels of government as we look to have these projects funded,” Cr Eastham said.

“I’d really encourage everyone to take a look at the UDF now it’s complete, including the comprehensive engagement report, and would like to again thank everyone who provided feedback and input into the final document.”

Ryrie Ward Councillor Fiona McAllister seconded the alternate motion.

The motion was carried unanimously.

The final adopted Monbulk Urban Design Framework is set to be available to be viewed on the council’s website in the near future.

Council hears concerns over side posts Yarra Ranges Council has received a petition requesting the removal of traffic side posts on the lower sealed section of Gleghorn Road in Kallista.

Speaking at the council meeting on Tuesday 28 November, resident Clayton Hugo said the posts - placed on the road as part of its sealing - are obstructing passing cars.

“We respectfully ask that they be removed and something a bit more practical [be done instead], maybe paint some lines down the side to show the road shoulder,” Mr Hugo said.

“It was an unsealed road and Karen [Kestigian] and from like the flood watch group pushed to get it sealed, which was done well “As part of that they’ve hitched it up and it flat shoulders, but now the side posts have 10 MAIL

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

Residents are concerned side posts are obstructing traffic. 376820 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS squished it in.”

20 residents signed the petition submitted to the council.

Lyster Ward Councillor Johanna Skelton spoke to the petition.

“I had a little drive down and thought ‘it [ the road] does seem a bit skinny,’” Cr Skelton said.

“That will also be a question to our team to ensure that we’re making sure it’s okay [for future].

“It was great to hear you add that onto the petition about potential solutions about what you do think would be good safety wise, because being all black and the drain being all black, it is a bit hard to see where those edges are,” she said.

The motion was carried unanimously.

The petition is set to be referred to the appropriate officer.

Loch Avenue in Monbulk is one of the five roads set to be sealed with Yarra Ranges Council accepting a tender of $1,219,978.41 (GST exclusive) from TDM Earthworks Pty Ltd. 376819 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Tender accepted for roads Yarra Ranges Council has accepted tender to seal roads in Monbulk as part of a Special Charge Scheme.

With landowner support obtained for construction of the roads Loch Avenue, Burns Way, Mayview Drive, Harvest Close and Cedar Court, the tender of $1,219,978.41 (GST exclusive), $1,341,976.25 (GST inclusive) from TDM Earthworks Pty Ltd was accepted at the council meeting on Tuesday 28 November.

As part of its 2019 budgetary process, the Federal Government announced a nine-year, $150 Million funding initiative for Yarra Ranges Council to seal roads within the Dandenong Ranges and surrounding areas.

In January 2023, the council received formal notification dated 19 December 2022, from the Federal Government that the $150 Million Federal Government funding initiative would be reduced with the council only receiving total funding in the program of $47.7 million.

This means the council’s ability to construct all roads on the endorsed priority list will not be possible.

At its meeting on 11 April 2023, the council considered a report for seven Special Charge Schemes that will proceed to construction, in which Cedar Court Road Group in Monbulk was included.

Deputy Mayor Councillor David Eastham moved the recommendation.

“There were seven special charge schemes that were voted on to proceed to construction because they sat in that limbo stage where we’d already invested so much time, effort and money into getting the special charge scheme done,” Cr Eastham said.

“I love that it’s also going to a local supplier to do [the work].

“Obviously the local residents are very happy with this outcome.”

Streeton Ward Councillor Andrew Fullagar seconded the motion.

The council also approves the Director of Built Environment and Infrastructure be delegated the authority to sign the contract documents.

The Special Charge Scheme Statutory Process has been successfully completed and the project is ready for construction.

The project is also listed in the council’s 2023/24 Capital Expenditure Program.

The motion was carried unanimously. mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Safer places confirmed Yarra Ranges Council confirmed the status of Neighbourhood Safer Places – Places of Last Resort within the municipality at the council meeting on 28 November.

The report to the council shows that all Neighbourhood Safer Places – Places of Last Resort meet CFA safety guidelines and will be open for the community during the 2023/2024 fire season.

This includes all 18 Neighbourhood Safer Places – Places of Last Resort, and three Community Fire Refuges commissioned by Emergency Management Victoria.

Yarra Ranges Council Deputy Mayor, David Eastham emphasised the importance of maintaining these 18 sites.

“Yarra Ranges Council is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its community through proactive bushfire preparedness measures. The designated Neighbourhood Safer Places – Places of Last Resort play a crucial role in providing a last resort for residents during emergency situations,” Cr Eastham said.

“Confirming the status of these Bushfire Shelter options isn’t just a formality; it’s a message to our community that we’re ready, we’re watching, and we’re keeping our residents safe and giving them an accessible place to turn to when the fire danger is high.”

Updated signage has been installed to improve accessibility and was commended by the CFA as an innovative addition to the Yarra Ranges Neighbourhood Safer Places – Places of Last Resort sites.

Residents and visitors are reminded that Neighbourhood Safer Places – Places of Last Resort are areas of last resort during a bushfire emergency, they can be used when all other options in your bushfire survival plan can’t be put into action safely.

They are areas of open space such as ovals or built-up areas that are away from bushland.

Lillydale Lake will remain as one of the region’s safer places for the bushfire season. 331739 Scroll down for a full list of locations in the Yarra Ranges or click visit the Community Fire Refuge & Neighbourhood Safer Places site for a map view, which can be found here: yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Environment/Emergencies/Preparing-for-an-emergency/Community-FireRefuge-Neighbourhood-Safer-Places Lilydale Recreation Reserve, Lilydale Lillydale Lake, Lilydale Yarra Hills Secondary College, Mount Evelyn Halley Supple Recreation Reserve Oval, Coldstream

· · · ·

North Recreation Reserve Oval. · Wandin Wandin North · Yarra Glen Racing Club. Yarra Glen · Monbulk Recreation Reserve Oval, Monbulk Yallock Recreation Reserve Oval, · Woori Woori Yallock · Upwey Recreation Reserve, Upwey · Alexanders Car Park, Belgrave · Belgrave Recreation Oval, Belgrave Ranges Community Cultural · Dandenong Centre Burrinja Car Park, Upwey · RACV Healesville Country Club Under-

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS ground Car Park, Healesville, Creek Recreation Reserve Oval Area, · Dixons Dixons Creek · Queens Park, Healesville Junction Recreation Reserve Oval, Yar· Yarra ra Junction · Millgrove Recreation Reserve, Millgrove · Warburton Recreation Reserve, Warburton Council works collaboratively with Victoria Police, and the Country Fire Authority (CFA) in ensuring these sites are maintained and suitable for community use.

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MAIL 11

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NEWS

Olinda pavilion gets boost

By Tyler Wright A new state-of-the-art solar and battery system has been opened at the Olinda pavilion.

Yarra Ranges Council marked the official opening of a 44kW solar array paired with a 95kWh battery, capable of providing up to a week of off-grid energy storage on Monday 20 November.

The facility is the result of a collaboration between the Olinda Hilltop Recreation Association (HRA), the council, and the Australian and state governments.

HRA Chairman Rick Wall said using the reserve in the ‘60s as a kid he could “never have dreamt” the community would have such a facility powered by the sun.

“It is absolutely extraordinary,” Mr Wall said.

“From the community point of view, it’s going to be a wonderful emergency centre.”

The showers at the pavilion have also been upgraded to create a more inclusive and modern space, with the open layout has been replaced by single cubicles and the site able to function as a ‘shower and power’ hub when required.

“The football club has upgraded the kitchen with industrial stoves, we’ve also upgraded the Wi -Fi and painted out the showers and toilets, so it’s going to be a perfect facility given that it’ll have the solar battery capable of supporting it up to a week after an emergency event,” Mr Wall said.

This upgrade has been built in response to the 2021 storm event, which highlighted the vulnerability of essential utilities during emergencies.

Mr Wall said the facility now is “chalk and cheese” compared to where locals gathered in the 2021 storm event.

“People would be able to eat, shower, all ablutions, even sleep in comfort, do some cooking. It’s just an ideal facility really for something

From left to right: Olinda Hilltop Recreation Association (HRA) Chairman Rick Wall, Yarra Ranges Council Deputy Mayor David Eastham, Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino and Streeton Ward Councillor Andrew Fullagar at the official opening of the Olinda Recreation Reserve Pavilion’s stateof-the-art solar and battery system.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

The 44kW solar array paired with a 95kWh battery is capable of providing up to a week of off-grid energy storage.

like what we went through with the major storms,” he said.

“It’s not a place of last resort; If there is an emergency or fire emergency or otherwise people need to look at their last resort places. For example Upwey footy ground, Monbulk footy ground, down the other side from Kalorama, the last resorts are at Mount Evelyn.”

Yarra Ranges Council Deputy Mayor, Cr David Eastham, said living in the area brings with it a lot of power outages.

“We’ve all been there when the power goes out, and it feels like everything comes to a standstill,” Cr Eastham said.

and our community living a bit lighter on the earth.”

“I’d like to thank the Australian and State Governments for this crucial funding, the local tradies who installed this system, and our clubs for their patience and support through this process. It’s a place I’m very proud we have locally.”

Mr Wall said the facility has come from a “pretty small background” to something “absolutely marvellous” for the community.

“Hilltop is compiling a manual on how to run the place in time of emergency, so whoever gets there in case we can’t get there, will know how to operate the solar, operate the kitchen, operate everything,” he said.

“It was a wake-up call, a reminder that we need to be prepared for the unexpected. That’s why this project is so crucial. It’s not just about having lights on during a blackout; it’s about creating a safe space for our community.”

Cr Eastham said the local association, composed of dedicated sporting and community members, played an instrumental role in advocating for and supporting the construction process.

“This is the latest project where our Government counterparts have provided funding for solar and battery systems,” he said.

“The end result is lower running costs, local hubs that can be activated in an emergency,

Get red-y for new rubbish bin lids!

From February 2024, all kerbside rubbish bins in Cardinia Shire will transition to red lids over a 4-week period. The red lids will replace any existing dark green lids on these bins.

Donations for Christmas Hampers

This change is taking place because the Victorian Government is standardising household waste and recycling services across the state, including lid colours.

Please drop your food donations for hampers off at the Op Shop or place into the trolley at Woolworths

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12650554-SN49-23

Before

If you already have a red-lidded kerbside rubbish bin, there’s nothing you need to do.

If your kerbside rubbish bin lid is dark green: All you need to do is leave your bin out on (even if its empty) until 6pm on your usual rubbish bin collection days from Monday 5 February to Friday 1 March 2024, or until your bin lid is swapped for a red lid.

For more information, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/redbinlids or call Council’s waste team on 1300 787 624.

12652819-JC49-23

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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MAIL 13

rooftop bar, curtin house

MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL Melbourne is setting the stage for entertainment this summer. From first light to late night, it’s the season that turns up the volume, the action and the fun. Take a seat and get set to Melbourne. visitmelbourne.com

12650772-JB49-23

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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NEWS

Trees damage homes, cars

By Tyler Wright The Dandenongs have been hit by wild weather in the late hours of Wednesday 29 November with damage to homes and vehicles across the region caused by fallen trees.

Emerald SES volunteers responded to 62 requests for assistance between 3pm and midnight; among those was one house written off in Olinda due to tree damage and around 20 homes affected.

“The jobs were coming in from Olinda down to Upwey, Tecoma, Belgrave, we had jobs in Cockatoo, we had jobs in Gembrook and we had jobs in Emerald,” deputy controller Olinka Edwards said.

“Majority of the nature of the calls was tree down on either road [or property].

“There were about 15 cars damaged.”

Ms Edwards said volunteers are always prepared for weather emergencies.

“We get information from the Bureau of Meteorology, and this gives us modeling as to the type of weather and where it’s coming from and what could possibly happen,” she said.

“That’s all part of our training to be ready to go.”

VICSES responded to 717 calls for assistance statewide on Wednesday.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe weather warnings currently in place for heavy rainfall and damaging winds over parts of Gippsland and over the Otways.

Flood watches are also current for Gippsland and parts of northeast and southwest Victoria.

Senior meteorologist at the Bureau of Meteorology, Christie Johnson, said rainfall totals in the Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Valley are not expected to be as large as those forecast in other parts of southern Victoria; particularly the Gippsland ranges and the Otways.

“Rainfall totals are expected to be around

Emerald SES crews responded to 62 requests for assistance from 3pm to midnight on Wednesday 29 November.

5-20mm [Wednesday 29 November] and maybe 2-8mm [Thursday 30 November],” Ms Johnson said.

“We are more likely to see the upper end of those ranges on the southeastern side of the Dandenongs, while the Yarra Valley will be somewhat sheltered and may see lower rainfall totals.”

“We are, however, expecting quite windy conditions through the Dandenongs and Yarra Valley, and from a relatively unusual direction (southeasterly). The unusual wind direction combined with some rainfall may result in more trees down than we would normally

expect with the forecast wind speeds, so the public is urged to take care while travelling.”

Thousands of Ausnet customers have been affected by power outages.

People in Cockatoo, Gembrook, Croydon, Seville East, Olinda, Mount Dandenong and Selby, were yet to be reconnected as of late afternoon on Thursday 30 November.

According to VICSES, resident can sandbag to ensure they are flood ready; although the process will not stop floodwater completely.

People can access sandbags at their local hardware store, or by enquiring with local council.

Picture: EMERALD SES

VICSES may establish sandbag collection points within impacted communities during significant events.

Current local sandbag collection points are also available from the sandbagging page, which can be viewed at ses.vic.gov.au/planand-stay-safe/sandbag-guide Those in need of emergency flood assistance can call VICSES on 132 500.

If life threatening, call Triple Zero (000).

To stay up to date with the latest weather forecasts and warnings, visit the Bureau of Meteorology website at bom.gov.au, and local incidents and warnings through VicEmergency.

CFA, Ambulance Victoria and Police hone their act

By Callum Ludwig Local emergency services came together to train a crucial cog in their critical response efforts on Tuesday 28 November.

Ensuring clear communication was the key focus of CFA, Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria (AV) personnel in a road-rescue training session held at the Wandin East Recreation Reserve.

Captain of the Wandin Fire Brigade, which has a specialist road rescue team, Darryn Goss said that given the amount of jobs that the agencies do together, the session was brought about to make sure that they could work together, understand each other’s needs and requirements and to positively impact the community when they’re in their time of need.

“This is hopefully going to be the first of many interagency exercises that we undertake, we’re always getting new responders in the area and you don’t see motor vehicle accidents or road crash rescue every day so it’s a unique skill set and a unique outcome,” he said.

“Being exposed to the hustle and bustle and the noise that happens at an incident, it helps you understand what you need to do to have better outcomes.”

Multiple scenarios were set up throughout the reserve including a car rollover and a collision with a tree, with Wandin Fire Brigade members and friends also playing the part of patients or disruptive onlookers.

Clinical Support Officer at Ambulance Victoria Peter Godwin from their side of things, they need their guys to understand that the brigade and police are in charge of the rescue and the scene.

“They need to know who is in charge of each individual unit so that they can then liaise with them when required about what we need versus what is actually able to happen at the time,” he said.

“Without that communication, you can end up with a bit of a dog’s breakfast where people want things done but don’t speak to the right people from the right service to ascertain who actually can do it or if mailcommunity.com.au

CFA rescue crews work to rescue a patient. it is achievable.”

Planning between the agencies to bring the session together had been ongoing for about a year and there’s hope to continue the practice annually.

Senior Sergeant at Lilydale Police Station Mark Knight said they tell their people to take away something from the night that resonates with them.

“Even if it’s just one thing they’ve learnt, when we go into the line of fire, that’s where it’ll come out and they’ll know they can bring that to the table,” he said.

Acting Senior Sergeant Jo Konomas said there’s a lot of experience within each agency

Picture: DARRYN GOSS and even more when you get into discussions at the scene so it’s important to hear everyone’s viewpoints.

“It’s about drawing on that experience from everyone else and being prepared to challenge each other as an agency and put our heads together to come up with the best result,” she said.

Arriving to a road crash rescue incident is challenging even for the most well-prepared emergency services personnel and there are a number of ways witnesses or those involved in the accident can make the process as easy as possible.

If you witness an accident, make yourself and/or your vehicle safe and call Triple Zero

immediately (000). Remain near the scene and if you can but safely away from the crash as you may be required to make a statement to police. Do not attempt to remonstrate with or interrupt emergency services on the scene, but you can speak to police if they approach you or ask to take a statement.

If you cannot remain near the scene, provide your details to police if appropriate or make a statement at your local police station or via the Police Assistance line on 131 444 as soon as you can.

If you are in an accident, check yourself for any serious injuries and for hazards in the vehicle before trying to leave it to assist any other persons involved and call triple Zero (000) if someone hasn’t already.

Drivers involved in an accident are legally required to exchange details with any other driver or the owner of any property that is damaged before leaving the scene, whether somebody is hurt or not.

If police attend, they will usually test drivers involved for alcohol or other drugs and it is a serious offence to refuse this test.

If possible, write down everything you can remember about the incident, including the time, date and location where the accident happened, names and contact details of any witnesses, an estimation of the speed you were travelling at and weather conditions.

Wandin Fire Brigade 4th Lieutenant and Rescue Controller Phillip Smith said road rescue a true team response from all agencies and everyone has a role to play.

“From our point of view, it’s pretty clear on fires or community safety incidents or medical incidents who’s in charge but a crash can involve everything from rescue to fire suppression, patient care, traffic management and potentially criminal investigation,” he said.

“Running scenarios like this are really key to not only practice the practicalities of going through a scene and the scenarios that we’re going to do, but also in just getting to know the faces of these guys and girls that have come out to play tonight and will be the ones we see on the scene.”

Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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NEWS

Humanitarian of the year

By Mikayla Van Loon What began as a way to memorialise the unsolved disappearance of her sister has grown to be a nationwide missing persons register, garnering the recognition of the Fred Hollows Foundation.

Leave A Light On founder and Mount Evelyn resident Suzie Ratcliffe was announced as Humanitarian of the Year at the Fred Awards on Monday 27 November.

“It’s quite overwhelming. To be nominated firstly, was a really humbling experience and then to be voted as top three, that in itself was amazing. In my eyes that was a win for me,” Suzie said.

“But to hear my name called, as the winner of the Fred award, I was in shock.”

Being honoured in the same light as someone like Fred Hollows, who Suzie said was just “a fabulous, generous, kind hearted gentleman…is amazing”.

“It just helps us raise that awareness. It’s vitally needed to be on that same sort of platform to reach more people. That’s our ultimate goal,” she said.

“It means we’re raising so much more awareness and reaching so many more people out there in their communities, which is so important and prevalent in trying to raise awareness of long term missing persons.”

Suzie’s sister Joanne Ratcliffe is the face and name of one of Australia’s most well-known, unresolved missing persons cases.

It was 50 years ago this August that Joanne, 11, and four-year-old Kirste Gordon disappeared from Adelaide oval during a football match.

The suspected abduction and murder has perplexed investigators for years on end without any answers.

In 2015, just over 40 years since Joanne’s disappearance, Suzie decided to do anything she could to help other families going through the pain of missing a family member.

“As the years went on my sister’s case wasn’t spoken about as much and it’s one of the greatest fears of all families of a missing person that their missing loved one will be forgotten.

“That’s how we were feeling, that time was slipping by and people pass away, allegiances crumble. We were given a million dollar award in 2014 for my sister’s case and it got me in contact with a few other families that didn’t have a reward.

“After listening to their story and hearing about how they got very little, if any publicity regarding their case, it made me realise we were lucky, for want of a better word in the fact that my sister’s case garnered quite a lot of media attention, especially in South Australia.

“And there were so many other families that didn’t have that publicity, that didn’t get that media and that didn’t raise that awareness. I just thought I can use our negative to be able to create a positive.”

Having wanted to do something to memorialise her sister for quite a long time, Suzie realised she could go “bigger and better than that, we could not just encapsulate Jo but all the missing persons here in Australia”.

Hosting an event in October encouraging people to leave a light on “in memory of missing persons and to raise hope that their families won’t be forgotten” it has now grown to a 40,000 strong community on Facebook.

“It’s only fitting we called it Leave A Light On because after my sister disappeared, mum and dad would leave the front porch light on in the hope that if she ever came home, she’d see that light shining bright and know we would be waiting for her,” Suzie said.

Using her connections with other missing persons organisations and groups, as well as being shared the stories from families themselves, Leave A Light On aims to raise awareness around the disappearances of people, while commemorating the milestones.

“Over the years we’ve been in contact with quite a lot of families and family members, we’ve been able to help instigate rewards for a number of families.

“Just recently we were able to help raise money for Jessica Small’s family to be able to replace the memorial tributes that had been vandalised.

“It might not seem like much for some but for a family member seeing a memorial they have dedicated to their mission person then be vandalised and treated so poorly, it’s really heartbreaking.”

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Suzie Ratcliffe was presented the Humanitarian of the Year at the Fred Awards on Monday 27 November.

NSW Governor Margaret Beazley and Dennis Wilson with Fred Award winner Suzie Ratcliffe from Leave A Light On. For others it’s a phone call or text to Suzie that’s needed, just to know that the person on the other end understands the pain of not knowing what happened to their loved one.

“We’ve been able to connect a number of families with other like minded families that are going through the same and it gives them a point of contact to speak with other families because it’s hard for friends and people who haven’t had to go through it personally.

“They don’t understand that 20, 30, 40, even 50 years later, you’re still not moving on. But it’s something you can’t move on from, it’s just like you’re living in limbo.

“For the family to be able to connect with

others who know exactly what they’re feeling, the whole myriad of emotions, because it’s anguish and grief, it’s anger and frustration, there’s so many different emotions rolled into it.”

Supporting other families has been healing for Suzie but Joanne’s disappearance still takes its toll on her.

“It has had a major impact on my life, not knowing what happened to Jo. I was born 14 months after Jo disappeared so I didn’t ever actually get to meet her personally but I’ve grown up knowing all about her through my family.

“So it’s still incredibly painful. At times I think about her or speak about her at anniversaries and special occasions.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

“Because I lost my mom in 2019 and my dad and my brother passed away in 2020 and those times made it that much harder because they passed without knowing what happened to Joanne and being able to bring her home and bury her.”

But living by her mum’s motto of “putting one foot in front of the other” Suzie continues to find the strength to help others.

Still to this day, however, the cases of missing children, the elderly and people from Aboriginal communities have the biggest impact on her.

“Aboriginal cases do not get the publicity and the awareness that a lot of other cases do and I really feel for their family.

“It makes me angry that they’re not given that same sort of consideration that other missing persons do.”

Growing her platform to ensure everyone gets the recognition they deserve is at the top of Suzie’s to do list, aiming for over 170,000 followers on Facebook.

“I’d love to be able to reach that because the more people we reach the better chance of someone having information on one of our long term missing persons and ultimately, possibly answers for a family.”

Establishing a specific counselling service for families of missing people, setting up support groups, as well as advocating for specialised missing person units in each state and territory are also things on Suzie’s radar to improve outcomes for families.

“We also need more support from the government and from local governments as well regarding missing persons search teams, search dogs…the quicker you get to searching for someone, the better chance you have of locating them.”

But aside from that, it’s about changing the stigma around what a missing person looks like.

“Raising awareness that missing persons can affect anyone. It doesn’t matter their age, race, religion, ethnicity, they’re all as important as the next person that goes missing, “It doesn’t matter whether it’s a young 25-year-old socialite female or an 89-year-old man who has dementia. We really need to embrace all of these missing persons and to help families look for answers.”

When it comes to 21 October next year, Suzie said show support and leave a light on for all missing persons and their families across Australia. mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Power of lived experience

By Mikayla van Loon Whether it was breaking down stigma, sharing an unknown but widespread problem or about changing outcomes, the Living Stories project gave voice to six people with lived mental health experiences.

Two of those people were Ray Cooper and Hannah Zinnack, both with incredibly different stories but ones as powerful as each other.

Ray was born into a rather poor family in England in 1944.

As a four-year-old boy he developed a stutter, something that would live with him for the next 30 years.

“I know the nervousness, the tension, which makes a stammer worse and worse. The key is, you’ve got to understand what caused the stammer in the first place,” he said.

“No child is born with a stammer. Any child in the first few years, they never stammer, something causes it and usually it’s something that’s affected them in their life.”

Having “always been held back in going for a job, I was more ambitious than the jobs I got, but my stammer limited me”, when he came to his 30s, Ray decided to seek help.

“A person who stammers is normally very withdrawn because they force themselves into that situation,” Ray said.

“Talking about my childhood, I understood everything I’d been through. I’d been beaten with a stick quite often. I’d have been shouted out, our family was poor and you’re just frightened of talking.

“You go into a little box and it’s not until you open that box and get out of that mode, then you feel better.”

After seeking help from a psychiatrist, Ray went on to find a position as a team leader, managing up to 100 staff at a time, something he never would have been able to do with his stutter.

With an estimated one per cent of the population having a stutter, Ray said if his story and advice helps just one person, he has done his duty as someone who lived through it.

Hannah Zinnack, 21, shares her story of caring for her mum throughout her teens and the impact in also had on her.

Ray Cooper grew up with a stutter and now doesn’t want others to have to go through the same.

Pictures: SUPPLIED “I hope that people who stammer come out and ask for help. There’s no one remedy that suits all but I just feel what I’ve been through. I had a bad stammer, the turning point in my life was just my own realisation,” he said.

“I’m hoping out of this story, something helps someone. Even one person, one person in the whole thing has been worth it, it doesn’t

have to be dozens. One person, I can help, I’d be happy.”

Hannah is on the other end of the spectrum, as a young person who has both grown up with a parent with mental illness and having been through her own journey, she wanted to break down the barriers about children being carers for their parents.

“The young carers space has definitely grown over the last few years but it’s always been a focus on someone that cares for parents who had a physical disability,” she said.

“It was really hard for people to grasp the idea that there is actually the caring that’s involved for someone that has mental illness.”

Attracted by the flexibility of the project and being able to tell her story in any format she liked, Hannah said she felt the freedom to

present it in a way that suited her.

Finding the whole experience challenging but also rewarding and cathartic, Hannah said “it’s almost a step in recovery to be able to surround yourself with other people that have similar experiences or be able to share something”.

“I work in mental health and I make art about mental health. I do all this stuff but I think it’s a form of being able to understand my own experience and then help others to do that as well.”

Like Roy, Hannah said even if her story can help just one person or start a conversation, that’s all she aims for with this project.

“What I wanted to get out of this is to be able to have someone feel more comfortable in their experience but also to make change within a system that I know has, unfortunately, failed a lot of people.

“And to be able to help clinicians who maybe we’re trained in an era where lived experience wasn’t considered, and for them to be able to see the impact that lived experience has and be able to then implement that into their own practice.”

Hannah said it was refreshing to see this project come about from a collaboration between Yarra Ranges Council, Eastern Health and Inspiro, particularly in her local community.

“It was really refreshing to see the council offer this as a project and I hope other councils do as well because I saw the impact it had on the other participants and how I felt to be like, ‘Oh, actually, my community recognises that this is a thing’.

“Because sometimes you only see these things when they are trending in the city. So having it come out this way was quite nice to see and just being able to work with the other participants in the project and make those connections as well.”

The Living Stories projects and each participant’s story can be found by visiting yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Community/Health-andWellbeing/The-Living-Stories-Project

Beautiful souls with stories to tell - in FTG Cemetary

By Tanya Steele From pioneers to unsolved murders, historical stories are being told under the cover of darkness in an unlikely setting – the Ferntree Gully Cemetery.

History and Mystery abound and duo Karin Orpin and Tricia Kirk have struck a balance between the two, as the public tours continue to raise vital funds for the Knox Historical Society and the Hut Gallery.

Every month under the light of a full moon the residents from Knox and further afield meet to hear firsthand about the calm patrons of the quiet cemetery – which had its first burial in 1885.

Ms Orpin guides the tours at the Ferntree Gully Cemetery along with researcher Ms Kirk and the pair said “they know the cemetery really well.”

“I don’t believe in ghosts,” Ms Orpin said to the expectant crowd on the most recent tour with a lantern in hand she invited the crowd to visit the resting place of around 8,000 souls.

The local historian promised to keep everyone safe as they walked by torchlight in procession to the graveyard on Friday 24 November.

Diving into the rich history of Ferntree Gully Cemetery and its surrounds the duo discuss the sites and stories, which hold the remains of both the famous and infamous residents of the area.

Cold case murders, wealthy landowners, artists and more – the cemetery holds all these stories inside its iron wrought gates.

The tours continue to sell out after over ten years and the duo picks histories to research based on several factors, but to them, all of the residents of the cemetery are all interesting in their own right.

“We spend a lot of time in the cemetery and some of the headstones have really intermailcommunity.com.au

Walking into the cemetery at sunset, attendees bring a torch to navigate the site.

Picture: TANYA STEELE

esting details,” Ms Orpin said.

“It’s getting to be a bit of a tourist attraction,” she said.

The idea for the tour came after Ms Orpin attended a cemetery tour in Melbourne and thought it would be good to have one in Ferntree Gully.

“Would you believe our daughters gave me tickets for the Melbourne general night tour for our wedding anniversary?” she said.

Ms Orpin said people love the historical aspect of the site and on the tour, she explains how the cemetery looked in the 19th century.

“In the 1800s, when it was started, there

would have been virtually no one around, it is quite away from everything,” she said.

“Even though the area was settled in the 1830s there was no way to bury your dead you had to take them to Oakley or Dandenong.”

The tour begins at sundown and after a brief introduction at the Hut Gallery attendees are walked across to the cemetery and guided through the cemetery.

Candles mark the graves of the tour and afterwards, attendees are encouraged to keep the secrets of the dead.

Ms Orpin said she finds the cemetery a very peaceful place.

At night the mood is sombre as the Ms Orin and Ms Kirk unveil the mysterious lives of those who lay at rest in the cemetery.

“To me, there’s beautiful souls there – so I don’t find anything scary about it at all,” she said.

“I love the fact that we’re bringing people’s stories to light.”

The historians continue to uncover new information about the cemetery and encourage people to bring any information they have to the Knox Historical Society.

“We encourage people who have a story and if they know something of someone who’s buried to let us know.” Ms Orpin said.

“What I love about the cemetery particularly is the community love it so much,” she said.

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NEWS

The Sheepstation Creek Road Reserve will be filled with activity for the Yellingbo Christmas Fair.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Reunion of Yellingbo community From left: ECHO CEO Nicole Lane, Executive Officer Kara Norton-Jones and ECHO Program Manager Sue Barbieri.

Picture: COREY EVERITT

Christmas joy to echo across hills

By Corey Everitt Echos of Christmas joy will be felt across the hills this holiday season as community notfor-profit ECHO are gearing up for their annual Christmas hamper giveaway.

ECHO’s efforts to help those in need this year has received an extra boost from the Cardinia Foundation, as they are a recipient of $2000 from the foundation’s latest round of Christmas grants.

These go to their Christmas hampers to be given away this December for those in need.

ECHO have been running this annual relief program for close to a decade, delivering much-needed assistance to around 80 families per-year in the Eastern Dandenong Ranges.

The hampers will include the Christmas essentials, ham, pudding and so on. With the additional grant, ECHO will be able to put in gift cards that will allow families to get something of their choice whether it be a present or something extra for Christmas lunch.

“The focus for us is around dignity of choice, often when people are given handouts they can just pretty much be ‘grateful for what you got’,” said EACH CEO Nicole Lane.

“Whereas we want to say to people, no you go to a shop as anyone else would and you make your own choices.”

“Not everyone likes the same meal or can eat the same meal. The voucher is for them to choose if they are not fans of plum pudding or want something different.”

Seeking out help can be difficult for fami-

lies, so all of the recipients for ECHO hampers will be delivered anonymously.

They are organising their distribution through local schools, kindergartens and playgroups who will be given the hampers to give out to the families they know are in need.

“Say there are 20 hampers for Gembrook Primary, we take 20 there and they distribute them to the families,” explained Program Manager Sue Barbieri.

Such efforts by ECHO play a vital role in ensuring those in need in the hills have a place to go locally.

“We fill gaps in services, a lot of people here are sent off the mountain if they need things.

Our goal is to keep programs here,” Ms Lane said.

“For people here your councils are either in Lilydale or Pakenham, and every bus goes to Belgrave.

“That’s why providing these sorts of services locally is really important to us.”

The organisation’s are busy all year round running projects such their a weekly food relief program called the Food Store, no-interest loan scheme, family support and youth mentoring activities and organising chaplains for local schools.

With the cost-of-living still on the rise they are seeing more and more work to be done, as many 100 no-interest loans are giving out monthly at the moment.

“We all know there are just more and more doing it tough, I guess the harder thing for us is that a lot of them now are people who have

never done it tough before. So they don’t know where to go for help,” Ms Lane said.

“That’s been one of our pushes over the last year is promoting the no-interest loans and the foodstore as well because it’s no questions asked, people can just come and take what they need.”

From churches, supermarkets, local businesses to the Cardinia Foundation coming together to help their relief efforts this Christmas it can go a long way to showing people that there is always local people who can help.

“It’s great to see the community come together and be able to help other families,” said Ms Barbieri.

Ms Lane added, “whatever we get each year is what we give, so this year will be that extra bonus from Cardinia Foundation with the ability to include these vouchers.”

If you wish to donate for ECHO’s hampers or their general relief efforts, you can do so online at echo.org.au/foodstore/.

The hampers will be packed and begin to be distributed from Thursday 14 December, residents are still encouraged to donate as ECHO will continue to deliver items to the community through the Food Store.

Along with their grants, the Cardinia Foundation is also conducting a Christmas fundraiser for those in need.

The community can either donate funds directly or start their own fundraiser.

To get involved, go to cardinia-foundation.grassrootz.com/christmas-appeal2023-share-the-joy

By Callum Ludwig The Sheepstation Creek Road Reserve is set to come alive with Christmas spirit at the upcoming Yellingbo Christmas Fair on Sunday 10 December from 10am to 3pm.

The inaugural edition of the event is being hosted by the Sheepstation Creek Road Reserve Committee with the hopes of bringing the community together and giving use to the reserve space.

Secretary of the Sheepstation Creek Road Reserve Committee Merril Brunt said in past years, the reserve used to be used as the showground for the local area.

“People would bring their cattle up from Warragul and all around the surrounding areas for this big show so this is all about just getting the community back together,” she said.

“The local cricket club in Woori Yallock used to play, but their numbers aren’t doing well and they don’t have the teams to actually utilise the ground anymore and we do have the football club coming out to train but it’s not utilised as it should be for community events.”

Entertainment on the day will include live music from ‘Almost A Band’, a snake safety demonstration from Blacksnake Productions, a roving magician, demonstrations from the Yellingbo CFA, a classic cars display, stalls, food vans and face painting.

Ms Brunt said they are also holding a reunion for past students of the nowclosed Yellingbo Primary School.

“I do know quite a few students who have been wanting to do this for a long time but utilising the primary school had been a bit hard because it’s all closed up now, and I’ve been wanting to do the Christmas fair for a long time so we are incorporating both of them,” she said.

“I’m hoping to have this a yearly event from now so hopefully it’s successful.”

Opportunities for stall holders are still open and can be booked by contacting

Plucky cancer survivor Henry gives back to hospital Eight-year-old Berwick resident Henry Jenkins was announced as the top fundraiser supporting the 21st Rotary Club of Emerald and District’s Kids Fun Run with Puffing Billy Railway last month.

Children between three and 12 raced against Puffing Billy from the Gembrook station in races from 150 metres to 1.2 kilometres on Sunday 26 November.

Families across the district helped raise about $45,000 towards Monash Children’s Cancer Research Centre as part of the Monash 18 MAIL

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

Children’s Hospital.

Alongside his six-year-old brother Thomas and three-year-old brother Samuel, Henry raised a total of $1167 for the cause.

At only four years old, Henry was diagnosed with Stage 5 Nephroblastoma (Wilms Tumour) a malignant tumour originating in the cells of the kidney.

His mum Jade said his diagnosis left the family devastated, with the first sign that something was wrong being when Henry had

a sore and bloated tummy.

Henry was admitted to hospital to start 12 weeks of chemotherapy before doctors could operate, then enduring a nine-hour lifesaving operation to remove the tumours and parts of his kidneys.

After his surgery, he underwent three weeks of radiotherapy with daily general anaesthetics, followed by 34 gruelling weeks of chemotherapy.

Henry’s mum Jade said it was special for

the family to show their appreciation for the Monash Children’s Hospital for saving Henry’s life, with Henry receiving gifts and a plaque from his oncologist Professor Peter Downie.

“He is now two years in remission and happy and healthy,” she said.

“We had really incredible care there.

“The Kids Fun Run with Puffing Billy was a fun opportunity for our boys to fundraise and give back to the Children’s Cancer Centre.”

Pictures of the fun run are on Page 22 mailcommunity.com.au

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With spacious 2 bedroom villas as well as studio and 2 bedroom apartments with services offering a more supported lifestyle, and 24/7 emergency call system, enjoy peace of mind in retirement.

Take the first step and call 13 28 36 or visit aveo.com.au/roseville to book your discovery tour today.

110 King Street, Doncaster East *Prices of available stock current as at 10 November 2023. The entry payment and any other amounts payable depend on any available contract option you select. A regular general service fee will be payable and you may have to pay a departure fee when you leave the village. Furnishings not included. Services, facilities and activities vary between communities, and are subject to change.

12650404-RR49-23

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MAIL 19

SENIORS LIVING

Tranquillity at Tudor Village Nestled amid the tranquil landscape of Lilydale, Tudor Village, is a haven of tranquillity and inspiration.

Here, in this charming community, residents like Ruth, a passionate egg artist, and her husband Christopher, have found a place to nurture her creativity and embrace a life filled with joy and purpose since moving in in 2019.

We are delighted to have her and many other residents of interesting career backgrounds.

Ruth’s journey into the captivating world of egg art began when a patient introduced her to this unique craft during her nursing days.

Since then, she has immersed herself in this traditional art form, transforming humble eggs into mesmerising masterpieces.

Her creations, adorned with intricate designs and sparkling rhinestones, have captivated audiences at various exhibitions, including the prestigious Royal Melbourne and Lilydale shows.

Ruth joined the Victorian Guild of Egg Decorators, where she collaborates with fellow enthusiasts and hones her artistry.

Her passion for egg art is a testament to the vibrant spirit that thrives within the village, a place where creativity is encouraged and celebrated.

Discover Tudor Village Tudor Village is more than just a place to reside; it’s a community that fosters a sense of belonging and encourages residents to pursue their passions. Here, you’ll discover a wealth of opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, engage in stimulating activities, and embrace a life filled with purpose and fulfilment.

Imagine strolling through the village’s serene gardens, where manicured lawns and vibrant blooms provide a tranquil escape from

Ruth is a passionate egg artist and has been able to nurture her creativity thanks to Tudor Village.

Tudor Village offers an incredible lifestyle for its residents.

surely afternoons at the village cinema, where you can catch the latest film releases or enjoy classic favourites.

Book Your Tour Today and Discover the Magic of Tudor Village If you’re seeking a place to call home where perhaps your creativity can flourish or you just want that next supportive community, look no

further than Tudor Village. Here, you’ll find a community that embraces individuality, values connection, and celebrates the pursuit of passions.

Embark on your journey of discovery and experience the enchantment of Tudor Village.

Book your tour today and discover a place where dreams are nurtured and a life of fulfilment awaits.

the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Picture yourself joining fellow residents at the community centre, where a variety of events and activities await, from lively social gatherings to enriching educational workshops.

Envision yourself indulging in the village’s many amenities, including a heated indoor pool, a competition-size bowling green, and a well-stocked library. Imagine spending lei-

Tudor Village: Find your haven of tranquility and timeless elegance, where monthly fees won’t strain your budget.

To discover Tudor Village, call 1800 133 711 to arrange a village tour.

520 Maroondah Hwy, Lilydale www.tudorvillage.com.au 12654487-AP49-23

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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SENIORS LIVING

Lifestyle Communities offers an endless amount of activities including the loved billiards group.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Meet with friends for a social barbecue in the impeccable outdoor facilities.

Live your life unlimited At Lifestyle Communities we believe in life without restrictions. One with the freedom to do the things you love, and the confidence to be whoever you want to be. Where every new day is a fresh opportunity. It’s a philosophy that rings true, in our best-in-class homes and clubhouses. Whether you’re working, semi-retired or retired, come and join a community where life is unlimited.

Join in on pickleball, croquet, yoga, arts and crafts, woodworking, bowls and swimming. There are also happy hours, guest speakers, musical entertainment and much more. Plus, you’ll have loads of new friends to enjoy all of this with and a beautiful home to live in. The community is thoughtfully planned and designed making it easy to get around and enjoy.

Lifestyle Communities promotes a lifestyle that emphasises freedom. The choice to do your thing, your way. Live independently whilst also enjoying a vibrant social life and a variety of recreational activities.

Buying a home at Lifestyle Communities means embracing a life where your horizons are boundless. With a host of activities and

an abundance of new friendships waiting for you, your days will be filled with excitement and companionship. Here, you are not just living, you are thriving, and it’s a testament to the limitless possibilities of a life unencumbered by restrictions. Come and experience the freedom to be you, every day, in your new home at Lifestyle Communities. Visit lifestylecommunities.com.au

12620280-AV49-23

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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MAIL 21

NEWS

The four-year-old group took on Puffing Billy in a 150-metre race. 375397

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

The four-year-old group competed against Puffing Billy in a 150-metre race. 375397

Running, puffing for good Children of all ages braced the chilly and wet weather in support of sick children in need on Sunday 26 November as part of the Rotary Club of Emerald and District’s Kids Fun Run with Puffing Billy Raceway, which saw hundreds of children race against the historic steam train.

Organising committee member John Henderson said while there was some wet weather around, the rain held off for the races.

“It didn’t dampen the sprits,” he said.

“All the runs went well.”

The team raised about $45,000 towards Monash Children’s Cancer Research Centre as part of the Monash Children’s Hospital.

Children between three and 12 raced against Puffing Billy from the Gembrook station in races from 150 metres to 1.2 kilometres, with each participant receiving a certificate and a showbag packed with goodies from local businesses.

Ella and Taj were the winners of the Purple Run, while Charlotte and Oliver soared home to win the Orange Run. The Blue Run winners were Zara and Connor, with Phoebe and Pratham taking out the Yellow Run. Etta and Parker were the winners of the Red Run, with the Green Run won by Isla and Chase.

Mr Henderson said they were grateful for the support of the local community and their sponsors.

“We’re obviously very grateful to all the families and the 100 volunteers from Emerald Rotary,” he said.

“It’s good that we can raise money for such a good cause.”

The three-year-old group launched off the start line at the 150-metre race. 375397

Winners of the five-year-old race, Zahara and Connor, with their trophies. 3752397

Monash Children’s Hospital staff members Gabriel Almeida and Amanda St John. 375397

The Monash Children’s Hospital team. 375397

Diesel train driver Andrew Wheatland gives a thumbs up. 375397

Storm warning - Storm Troopers inside. 375397

Puffing Billy raced the kids at Gembrook. 375397

Puffing Billy getting the steam up for the start of the race against the five-year-old group. 375397

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Paul looks being able to see clearly as he drives in style.

Embrace your new clarity As we bask in the radiant glow of summer, the importance of safeguarding our vision against the sun’s rays becomes paramount.

In the vibrant tapestry of Melbourne’s unpredictable weather, where we often find ourselves experiencing four seasons in a single day, the need for adaptable eye protection is more significant than ever. Enter the New Improved Transition Xtractive lenses – a groundbreaking solution that seamlessly blends style with functionality.

Transition lenses have long been heralded for their transformative nature, adjusting to varying light conditions to provide optimal comfort and protection. However, the Xtractive lenses take this technology to new heights, offering a dynamic response not only to UV

rays but also to light itself. This means that these lenses are not confined to the outdoors; they work their magic even within the cocooned environment of your car, darkening by 30 per cent to shield your eyes from the harsh glare.

At Mountain Gate Eyecare, we understand the unique demands of Melbourne’s climate, and that’s why we specialise in crafting custom colour-changing lenses that cater to your every need.

Our commitment to eye health extends beyond the conventional, and the Xtractive lenses stand as a testament to our dedication to innovation.

What sets the Xtractive lenses apart is their ability to polarise into a full sunglass when ex-

posed to outdoor environments. Whether you find yourself strolling through the bustling streets of the city or exploring the serene landscapes on the outskirts, these lenses effortlessly adapt to provide the optimal level of protection. The transition is seamless, ensuring that your eyes are shielded from harmful UV rays while allowing you to revel in the beauty of your surroundings.

To celebrate the launch of this revolutionary eyewear technology, we invite you to step into Mountain Gate Eyecare and experience the transformation firsthand. Mention this ad in-store, and we’ll treat you to a complimentary upgrade from standard transition lenses to the cutting-edge Xtractive eyewear. It’s our way of inviting you to embrace a brighter,

clearer vision of the world around you.

When you visit us, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with our knowledgeable team, including the personable Paul, the insightful Danni, and our therapeutically endorsed optometrist, Edward.

Their expertise ensures that you receive personalised advice on choosing the perfect Xtractive lenses tailored to your lifestyle and visual needs.

The future of eye protection is here, and it’s as clear as the lenses you’ll find at Mountain Gate Eyecare. Don’t miss the chance to elevate your eyewear experience with the New Improved Transition Xtractive lenses – because when it comes to your vision, clarity is key.

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU HAD YOUR EYES CHECKED? – MEDICARE BULK BILLED EYE EXAMS – EXTENSIVE RANGE OF FRAMES FOR EVERY BUDGET – LATEST IN LENS TECHNOLOGY – FULLY INDEPENDENT, LOCALLY OWNED – ON SITE LAB

“Use it or Lose it” (Your health funds before the end of the year)

Second Pair of prescription Sunglasses - HALF PRICE OR A FREE upgrade to transition colour changing lenses

12643009-MS45-23 12619964-ET40-23

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT CALL 9758 8574 OR ONLINE VIA www.mountaingateeyecare.com.au Shop 44, Mountain Gate Shopping Centre, 1880 Ferntree Gully Rd Ferntree Gully VIC 3156 12573089-MS44-22 12569055-JV40-22 12555792-AI31-22 12554989-ET27-22 12550193-DL23-22 12546195-JW18-22 12546195-JW18-22 12543218-SG14-22 12538371-SN09-22

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* Conditions apply. See in store for details.

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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MAIL 23

OPINION

Reach out to care From my

desk

Kemp’s

Federal Member for Casey Just like that we find ourselves in the last month of 2023.

The past 12 months have brought their share of challenges. I understand the difficulties many residents are facing with the rising cost of living.

It’s been just 18 months since Anthony Albanese and Labor were elected. In that time, electricity is up 18 per cent, gas is up 28 per cent, interest rates have risen 12 times and Australians are still waiting for their promised $275 reduction in power bills.

I have been advocating in Parliament for the government to do more to ease your costof-living and will continue doing so.

We are stronger when we work together.

This Christmas in particular, I urge you to reach out to your friends, family, loved ones and neighbours.

A simple conversation, a shared meal and a small gesture of kindness can make the world of difference.

Despite the challenges faced by many this year, our community spirit here in the Yarra Ranges has continued to shine.

We had a great win late last month. The Al-

End of year drama is here! curtain call

A community forum was held to discuss the Killara Road and Maroondah Highway intersection.

Picture: SUPPLIED banese Labor Government was considering scrapping the funds secured by the former Liberal Government for the Maroondah Highway and Killara Road upgrade in Coldstream. However, our strong community campaign resulted in the funding being saved for our community.

This wouldn’t have been possible without the 1000-plus people who signed my petition, who came to our community meetings and who advocated for the funds to be kept in Coldstream.

This vital safety upgrade will benefit residents of Coldstream, Gruyere, Yering, Yarra Glen, Healesville, Seville and the wider Yarra Valley.

With the funds saved, it is now time the Victorian Labor Government delivered this project for our community.

Over the past few months, it’s been wonderful to see that strong sense of community on display at the Kallista Revival Festival - which I

was proud to support through a $18,500 grant to re-establish the market – as well as the Mt Evelyn Street Party, Lilydale and Yarra Valley Show, Kilsyth Festival and the Lilydale Street Fair.

These events wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated volunteers and community groups that work tirelessly to bring them to life and that’s why I’m really looking forward to recognising many locals at my upcoming Volunteer & Community Awards on December 9.

Lastly, I wanted to let you know that my office has recently moved. You can now find me at 110 Main Street, Lilydale, or alternatively, I can still be reached on (03) 9727 0799 or at Aaron.Violi.MP@aph.gov.au Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

CARTOON

Who can believe that the end of 2023 is already upon us? …! Well the end of year drama concert is here too.

PARENTS: Please check your emails for all the pertinent dates and info for the coming weeks.

Any inquiries please contact the Box Office Wed.-Frid. 10am – 4pm 9754 8723.

Season: Wednesday December 13 at 5pm. Venue: Burrinja Theatre.

The next production at Burrinja Theatre is in February 2024.

The Black Sorrows in Concert Join Joe Camilleri and The Black sorrows for a very special afternoon.

Joe Camilleri has been at the forefront of the Australian music scene for decades as the leader of Jo Jo Zep and the Falcons and The Black Sorrows, and as writer of radio anthems Hit & Run, Shape I’m In, Chained to the Wheel, Harley and Rose and Never Let Me go.| The Black Sorrows are celebrating ‘The Black Sorrows’. Live from The Shangri-La, an incredible live recording that captures that spark that defines The Black Sorrows. In Joe’s words “Live from the Shangri-La gives you a sense of how far the Sorrows have come, of how we’re always moving forward as a band.

It’s never about the past. Although we are always celebrating where we have been, we are constantly finding a new and fresh pathway… for the beyond.

Season: Sunday February 11 at 4pm.

Venue:” Burrinja theatre.

Gemco Community theatre Gemco Youth End of Year Shows. 2023.

Season: December 9 at 2pm and December 10 at 2pm.

Gemco family are invited to stay on after the Sunday Youth show for the Christmas part, please bring a plate to share.

There will be wine, beer and soft drinks available. The party will start once the Youth Plays are packed away.

There will be snippets from the year showing in the theatre and a short talk from president Evie Housham about the year that was, and the year to come.

Season: Sunday December 10 from 4pm to 7pm.

Godzilla Minus One is outstanding new monster film Godzilla Minus One Starring Ryunosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe and Hidetaka Yoshioka Rated M 5/5 Godzilla Minus One is an outstanding new film for the undisputed King of the Monsters.

Weakened after World War 2, post-war Japan must deal with a new threat – the monster Godzilla.

Where the original 1954 Godzilla was an anti-nuclear allegory and a stark horror film, Godzilla Minus One is both a potent, moving anti-war allegory and a thrilling disaster-action movie.

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

Koichi (Ryunosuke Kamiki), the former pilot protagonist, leads a superbly-paced, often heartbreaking narrative about grief, survivor

guilt, PTSD and how war cheapens human life. With the trauma of the war and Godzilla’s onslaught inextricably linked, Koichi is torn between hope with his partner Noriko (Minami Hamabe) and adopted daughter Akiko (Sae Nagatani) and a fatalistic need to avenge his comrades and end the war for himself.

The anti-war themes are prominent without being heavy-handed, and Minus One knows how to have fun, with Hidetaka Yoshioka as an egghead scientist type, Yuki Yamada as a plucky young man desperate to prove himself and a weird (but logical) plan to defeat Godzilla, while keeping the tension and dread high.

Featuring mind blowing destruction and a

clear sense of scale and human victims, the action sequences hold a terrifying grandeur, and Godzilla is scarier, more agile and expressive than ever. Hollywood should take notes from director Takashi Yamazaki: Minus One looks amazing and cost the equivalent of $15 million, which is pocket-change for American blockbusters.

Masterfully balancing pathos, terror, sensitivity and nuanced characters with jawdropping monster action and effects, Godzilla Minus One is one of the greatest kaiju (giant monster) movies ever made, and is playing in select Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Christmas edges closer WOORILLA WORDS

By Maria Millers Christmas is the festival that engenders much fervour and more expectations than it often delivers.

Then why is it when fewer and fewer of us uphold the religious significance of Christmas are we still so committed to this festival?

Would it not be better to cancel it and avoid the stress, cost and fatigue?

It may surprise you that Christmas was once cancelled in 1645 when the English Parliament, presided over by Oliver Cromwell and the Puritans abolished Christmas outright, along with Easter; reinstated and officially celebrated again after the return of the monarchy in 1660.

Dickens in his novella A Christmas Carol (1843) through the character of the once curmudgeon Scrooge showed the importance of generosity, kindness and compassion towards those less fortunate.

In fact through his writings Dickens promoted the importance of celebrating Christmas, however, playwright and Nobel Laureate, George Bernard Shaw famously warned against the excesses of Christmas, describing it as a carnival of mendacity, gluttony and drunkenness “forced upon a reluctant and disgusted nation by the shopkeepers and the press….’

And John Lennon once famously asked, ‘And so this is Christmas and what have you done?’

His song Happy Xmas (War is over) written in the aftermath of the Vietnam War carries a message of peace and reflection. Were he still alive today his words would be resonating with us all. This iconic song carries a profound message that goes beyond the usual merriment associated with the holiday season.

On the other hand, Tim Minchin’s Wine in the Sun is a foil to all the northern hemisphere references to snow and holly.

He is honest that he still likes Christmas despite its seeming irrelevance.

And his stance is probably shared by many.

He captures the ambivalence so many of us feel towards Christmas.

And yes, I have all of the usual objections To consumerism, the commercialisation of an ancient religion To the westernisation of a dead Palestinian Press-ganged into selling Play stations and beer But I still really like it.

And that’s the point, despite that for many, like Minchin, the religious significance is no longer present, there is still a belief that a festival, however, irrelevant in a predominantly secular society and exploited by commercial interests, is nevertheless needed in an increas-

ingly fragmented society.

Minchin looks forward to the positive aspects of Christmas: I’ll be seeing my dad My brother and sisters, my gran and my mum They’ll be drinking white wine in the sun I’ll be seeing my dad There is undoubtedly value in taking part in rituals that bring people together around shared practices and values as social bonds between people are reaffirmed. A unifying experience brings out feelings of belonging. Even the difficult parent/sibling, annoying neighbour are tolerated and accepted at Christmas.

The fact that Christmas is celebrated in countries where Christianity is only a minority religion, affirms this. In Japan, Christmas is celebrated exuberantly with decorations, gift giving and the rather strange substitution of KFC for the traditional turkey.

As the world shrinks it contributes to the global nature of Christmas celebrations.

But it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of preparations, gift buying and partying to forget that for many it may be a difficult time and a different experience: the homeless, the elderly, those doing it tough, For them this is not a festival to celebrate.

Homelessness is after all part of the Christmas story as Joseph and Mary found no vacancies at the inns and had to make do with a stable. Sound familiar?

Wendy Cope in her very short poem captures the loneliness of someone one on their own at Christmas.

At Christmas little children sing and merry bells jingle, The cold winter air makes our hands and faces tingle And happy families go to church and cheerily they mingle

And the whole business is unbelievably dreadful, if you’re single.

Tensions develop in families over the need to accommodate conflicting wishes.

The absence of family members is felt as more and more choose to travel and not be home for Xmas.

The stress of buying meaningful gifts for family, teachers, friends work colleagues, neighbours.

The notion of expensive gift giving is a modern phenomenon and driven by retail interests.

There are many who can still remember when gift giving was modest.

Food can be a battleground as well.

The move away from traditional fare to food that’s more suited to our climate seems a sensible thing to do.

And the many different dietary requirements whether real or affected can add to the stress.

But a shared table is a wonderful thing, whether it’s traditionally formal, a barbeque or a picnic on the beach.

Without a doubt the celebration of Christmas is evolving into a less formal event and more in tune with our lifestyle, climate and beliefs. In a multicultural Australia we should include all faiths to join the universal values so eloquently articulated by philanthropist/ author Steve Maraboli:‘Feed the hungry, clothe the naked, forgive the guilty, welcome the unwanted, care for the ill, love your enemies, and do unto others as you would have done unto you.’

Then we would have reclaimed Christmas as a unifying festival of goodwill serving all of our diverse community not just the retail sec-

tor.

Balloons

by Sylvia Plath SINCE Christmas they have lived with us, Guileless and clear, Oval soul-animals, Taking up half the space, Moving and rubbing on the silk Invisible air drifts, Giving a shriek and pop When attacked, then scooting to rest, barely trembling.

Yellow cathead, blue fish--Such queer moons we live with Instead of dead furniture!

Straw mats, white walls And these traveling Globes of thin air, red, green, Delighting The heart like wishes or free Peacocks blessing Old ground with a feather Beaten in starry metals.

Your small Brother is making His balloon squeak like a cat.

Seeming to see A funny pink world he might eat on the other side of it, He bites, Then sits Back, fat jug Contemplating a world clear as water.

A red Shred in his little fist.

Where to pick up a FREE printed copy of your...

ed

Publish

Christmas has undoubtedly value in taking part in rituals that bring people together around shared practices and values as social bonds between people are reaffirmed.

Picture: ON FILE

y

Tuesda

Mail

AVONSLEIGH Avonsleigh News & General Store 445 Belgrave Gembrook Road BELGRAVE Belgrave Newsagency 1704 Burwood Highway BELGRAVE Woolworths Supermarket 1629 Burwood Highway

EMERALD Bell Real Estate 313 Main Street FERNTREE GULLY Upper Ferntree Gully Newsagents, 1202 Burwood Highway FERNTREE GULLY Glenfern Road Milk Bar , 83 Glenfern Road

MONBULK Monbulk Newsagency & Officesmart 76 Main Street OLINDA Monbulk Bowling Club, 11 Moores Road OLINDA Olinda Cellars Shop 7/540 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

BELGRAVE IGA 151 Belgrave-Hallam Road BELGRAVE Chandler & Co Real Estate 1689 Burwood Hwy

FERNTREE GULLY Coles Supermarket Mountain Gate SC Ferntree Gully Road FERNTREE GULLY Woolworths Supermarket Mountain Gate SC

OLINDA Ranges at Olinda 5 Old Main Road OLINDA IGA Supermarket 1526 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

BELGRAVE First National Real Estate 1660 Burwood Highway Belgrave BELGRAVE SOUTH Belgrave South Motors 138 Belgrave-Hallam Rd BORONIA Boronia Mall Newsagent Corner Floriston Road & Chandler Road

Ferntree Gully Road FERNTREE GULLY Mountain Gate Newsagency & Lotto Mountain Gate SC 9b Ferntree Gully Road FERNTREE GULLY IGA Ferntree Gully, 107 Station Street

OLINDA Bell Real Estate 11 Main Road SASSAFRAS Sassafras General Store 391 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road SILVAN Shell Princi Motors, 275 - 277 Monbulk Road

COCKATOO Ranges First National Shop 2, 24 McBride Street COCKATOO IGA Cockatoo 34 McBride Street

TECOMA BP Service Station 1524 Burwood Highway TECOMA Bon Ton General Store 1537 Burwood Highway

EMERALD Kaye Charles RE 12a Kilvington Drive EMERALD Ritchies SUPA IGA 342 Belgrave-Gembrook Road EMERALD Emerald Village Newsagency 4 Kilvington Drive

FERNTREE GULLY Shell Service Station 1140 Burwood Highway FERNY CREEK Ferny Creek & Post Office 195 Mount Dandenong Tourist Road GEMBROOK Gembrook Post Office& Newsagent 72 Main Street GEMBROOK IGA Supermarket 83/85 Main Street

EMERALD Woolworths Supermarket Belgrave Gembrook Road EMERALD Auto Plus More Petrol Station 365 Main Street

KALORAMA Post Office 1209 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road MONBULK Best Repairs & Accessories Monbulk - 26 Main Road

TREMONT Caltex Service Station 100 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road UPWEY Newsagent 18 Main Street

EMERALD Shell Service Station 336 Main Street EMERALD Barry Plant Real Estate 1/ 321 Main Street

MONBULK Food Express 128 Main Road MONBULK Woolworths Supermarket Main Road & Moores Road

UPWEY IGA Supermarket 62-64 Main Street UPWEY Yarra Ranges Shire Council 40 Main Street

12652353-AA48-23

TECOMA O’Brien Real Estate 1567 Burwood Highway TECOMA McDonald’s Restaurant 1529 Burwood Highway THE PATCH The Patch Store and Post office 16 The Patch Road

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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MAIL 25

PUZZLES No. 162

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.

easy

1

6

8 5 2

5 4 8 5 9 1 8 6 2 3 1 7 5 3 4 2 8 5 8 3 3 6 7 8 9 1 medium

8

9 1 8 2 7 3 7 3 8 4 4 9 2 8 1 7 6 3 6 2 7 2 7 4 5 5 9 7

QUICK CROSSWORD 7 8 9 15

ACROSS Church officer (6) Wages (8) Poem (5) Criticism (7) Impeached US president (5) Teachers (9) Darling (8) Excellent (6) Astronomical cloud (6) Female server (8) With healing properties (9) In addition (5) Launched weapon (7) Luxury (5) Box (8) Finish (6)

1 4 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 19 23 25 27 28 29 30

17 18 20 21 22 24 26

No. 162

Present to someone new (9) Meet requirements (7) Land measure (imp) (4) Independent official who investigates citizens’ complaints (9) Wandering from place to place (7) Destructive insects (7) Surgery chamber (7) Break into pieces (7) Motor (6) Untruths (4) Subject (5)

DOWN Vast Sudanese grasslands (7) Copy (5) South-West Pacific region (7) Metal body protection (6) Mean (7)

1 2 3 5 6

DECODER

No. 162

hard

3

4

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6

8

10 11 12 13

S

B

17

18

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

No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

O

Today’s Aim: 19 words: Good 29 words: Very good

U

E

A

B

H

1 3 9 7 2 6 4 8 5 6 5 7 4 8 9 3 1 2 2 4 8 1 3 5 7 9 6 9 1 4 8 5 2 6 7 3 8 2 6 3 1 7 9 5 4 5 7 3 6 9 4 1 2 8 4 6 2 5 7 1 8 3 9 3 9 1 2 4 8 5 6 7 7 8 5 9 6 3 2 4 1

4 2 3 8 7 6 9 1 5 9 8 6 4 5 1 2 7 3 5 1 7 9 3 2 6 8 4 7 3 8 1 4 9 5 6 2 6 9 5 2 8 3 1 4 7 1 4 2 7 6 5 8 3 9 3 6 1 5 2 4 7 9 8 2 7 4 6 9 8 3 5 1 8 5 9 3 1 7 4 2 6

O

S

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bash, bath, bathe, bathes, bathos, baths, BOATHOUSE, booth, bosh, both, bush, ethos, haste, hate, hates, haute, heat, heats, hoes, hoot, hoots, hose, host, house, HOUSEBOAT, oath, shea, shoat, shoe, shoo, shoot, shot, shout, shut, sooth, soothe, south, those, thou, thus

3 6 9 7 1 5 8 4 2 8 7 1 2 4 3 6 9 5 4 2 5 6 8 9 3 7 1 2 3 7 1 5 8 9 6 4 9 1 6 3 2 4 5 8 7 5 4 8 9 6 7 1 2 3 7 8 2 5 9 1 4 3 6 1 9 3 4 7 6 2 5 8 6 5 4 8 3 2 7 1 9 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

9

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

40 words: Excellent

hard

7

16

medium

2

15

easy

1

3 LETTERS APE ARE AWE CAD CUT DAD EKE ERA EVE FIT FOR ICE ILK ITS LIE MET NEE NIT PAL PET SET TAN TOE

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6

4 3 9 3 1 5 9 4 3 4 7 8 6 2 5 4 7 5 1

D VMP K T F OH Z Q J X

9 5 7

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WORDFIT

4 LETTERS APED EELS EVIL EYES HIRE HOUR PAID POND RANT RENT SARI SEWS SPAS TOES TUNE 5 LETTERS ABATE ACORN ALARM

No. 162

6 7 $ 0 3

ALTER ALTOS APART ARENA AROSE ATONE CANAL CRANE CRATE DOILY EATEN EDGES FRETS GENIE HALER ISSUE LODGE MANIA NESTS OASES OVERS PARSE PEDAL

PEEPS PURER RADIO RASPS REAPS RENEW SCARF SEATS SELLS SHAFT SLEDS SLEET SNIDE SNOOP STAMP TABOO THERE TWIRL USUAL VIRAL 6 LETTERS ELECTS

LLAMAS PREFAB TOMCAT

TATTOOED TRESTLES

7 LETTERS ABSTAIN COOPING DESPAIR OUTSIDE RUNNIER SECULAR

11 LETTERS NECESSITATE PESTILENCES

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SUDOKU

08-12-23

William Matthews Funerals 24 HOUR SERVICE - ALL AREAS

9739 6868 45 Cave Hill Rd, Lilydale www.williammatthewsfunerals.com.au 12567433-SN37-22

26 MAIL

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PROPERTY

MODERN AND STYLISH EQUINE PROPERTY

PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

MODERN AND STYLISH EQUINE PROPERTY ON APPROXIMATELY FIVE ACRES WHAT a fantastic opportunity! Rarely do you find a home of this quality paired with a usable nearly 5 acres of land carefully designed to maximize grazing potential and ease of care for your horses or four legged friends.

The home is located less than 5 minutes to Gembrook township, and is surrounded by farming properties offering beautiful vistas.

The expansive 5 bedroom, 2 bathroom family home is wrapped with a welcoming front verandah and has a grand entry. There is a formal loungeroom & a master bedroom with a large walk in wardrobe and ensuite.

Conveniently located near the master bedroom is a further bedroom with ceiling fan and built in robes. The home with its high ceilings, double glazed large windows, and reverse cycle air conditioning is a delight to explore.

Flow through to the central open plan kitchen/dining/lounge area to discover the hub of the home that is flooded with natural light, and offers a wood fire heater, and kitchen with a large walk in pantry.

The kitchen also has a 900mm gas stove/ oven, stainless steel appliances including dishwasher and Caesarstone benchtops.

At the other end of the home, there is a lovely laundry with it’s own external access, a study/office area, and then three further bedrooms, all with ceiling fans and built-in wardrobes. These bedrooms are serviced by the family bathroom complete with bath and shower. There is also a handy separate toilet.

Externally the acreage is divided into 5 fully fenced paddocks, fenced with either electric fencing or mesh fencing. These paddocks are connected through a central laneway which allows for ease of care by having one central hay station & water station. The main gateways are reinforced with Geohex. There is plenty of parking available making it easy to store you float for short trips out to the nearby riding trails or to the local horse riding clubs such as Gembrook Adult Riding Club & Cockatoo Pony Club.

This property has it all so don’t miss out call to arrange a private inspection today.

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

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 100 Gembrook Tonimbuk Road, GEMBROOK Description: 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Price: $1,300,000 - $1,420,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Aaron Day 0407 365 994 or Bethany Day 0438 844 968, BELL REAL ESTATE, EMERALD 28 MAIL

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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PROPERTY NEWS

VETERANS’ DINNERS HELP DANDENONG Ranges Community Finance Limited has taken a proactive step towards supporting the well-being of local RSL Veterans by providing substantial funding for dinners throughout the upcoming year. Company Chair, Deb Weber, officially handed over a cheque for $10,000 to Upwey Belgrave RSL President, Fred Schmager, in a heartfelt gesture aimed at fostering camaraderie and well-being within the veteran community.

In a brief ceremony held at the Upwey Belgrave RSL, Ms. Weber expressed the organisation’s commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of veterans facing challenges. “We see this as a very tangible way of helping veterans who may be struggling to join with others in a relaxed social setting and enjoy a nice dinner with other people who have had similar experiences. This collaboration aims to enhance the quality of life for local veterans, offering them a supportive environment to share experiences and build lasting connections.” she stated.

The financial contribution is intended to assist the Upwey Belgrave RSL in providing much-needed dinners for veterans, creating opportunities for social engagement and mutual support. The donation reflects the longstanding association between Dandenong Ranges Community Finance Limited and the Upwey Belgrave RSL. “We are pleased to be able to assist in this instance,” Ms. Weber added, highlighting the organisation’s ongoing commitment to community well-being and its recognition of the unique challenges faced by veterans.

For further information, please contact: Upwey Belgrave RSL. Phone: 9754 3665. ● Dandenong Ranges Community Finance Limited Chair, Deb Weber and Upwey Belgrave RSL President Fred Schmager.

Meet the team Upwey | Belgrave | Cockatoo - Gembrook

Pictured (L to R) is: Andrew Gardner : Business Development Manager Cheryl Gaston : Senior Branch Manager, Upwey and Belgrave Josie Trujillo : Customer Relationship Manager Susan Tresidder : Home Lending Specialist

Scan to fill in a enquiry form or call 9754 1200 to speak to our friendly staff.

12654067-ET49-23

mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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MAIL 29

HOME FOCUS

TRADIES DREAM WORKSHOP – PRIVATE RETREAT OUTDOOR entertaining will be a dream from the huge deck offering privacy and a backdrop of 3,015 sqm approx. of mature gardens and magical woodlands. Plus, ample parking by the double carport and double garage workshop would suit any tradie.

Step inside to a spacious open plan living with the must-have cosy wood fire, polished floorboards and walls of glass for treetop views and to let the sunshine in. Update kitchen with large pantry, stainless steel cooking, engineered stone bench tops and dishwasher.

With dual living zones, one would make an ideal home office /workstation, for those that like to work from home.

Three bright bedrooms, built-in robes and a modern bathroom.

The home has just been restumped with provision to reinstate rooms under for potential rumpus, fourth bedroom, bathroom etc. great potential here.

Other features include ducted gas heating, split system cooling and for the tradie a massive workshop and double carport.

A second road frontage to Carramar Crescent. Time to enjoy the hills tradition of the iconic Puffing Billy chugging past in the reserve opposite is bound to put a smile on your face when you call this house your home. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 25-27 Colombo Road, BELGRAVE Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: On application Inspect: By appointment Contact: Grant Skipsey 0418 528 102, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL, 9754 6111 30 MAIL

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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ranges cHArAcTEr AND coNVENIENcE

UPWEY 4-6 THE AVENUE ENTER VIA 5 KOOKABURRA dELL

We put you first

SUNSETS AND VIEWS

$945,000 - $990,000 4A 2B 6C

character-filled home that effortlessly combines charm, functionality and unbeatable convenience to Upwey. The home features detailed ceilings & cornices, GDH, generous master with ensuite, large picture windows, impressive 25m x 35m shed with a 14-foot-high door, 3-phase power & a mezzanine area, a second garage, carport and the standout feature of this property is its dual access, offering unparalleled options for residents. The private garden surrounding the home offers tranquillity and a connection to nature.

Jan Brewster 0409 558 805

EMERALd 50 BEAcoNSfIElD-EmErAlD roAD FAMILY LIVING ON ¼ ACRE & CLOSE TO TOWN

Mick dolphin 0429 684 522

6 GlorIoUS AcrES

TrADIES DrEAm WorKSHoP

AVONSLEIGH 18B mArGArET roAD $1,300,000-$1,430,000 CHARMING RESIdENCE WITH STUNNING GARdENS 4A 1B 5C

BELGRAVE 25-27 colomBo roAD PRIVATE HILLS RETREAT

Mick dolphin 0429 684 522

9754 6111

rangesfn.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

Erin davies 0493 136 937

4A 2B 1C

This two-storey home offers a perfect blend of comfort, functionality & aesthetics with emphasis on outdoor/indoor living. Unique features includes a screened in deck incorporating an outdoor ‘kitchen’ with BBQ & custom cabinetry. The residence offers three separate living areas, a big TV screen zone, a viewing area to enjoy the perfect sunsets, a soaking tub and the downstairs 4th bedroom is ideal for working from home.

Enjoy the established gardens, sealed driveway and a single remote garage with a view.

Erin davies 0493 136 937

This wonderful 1950’s built 6-acre (mainly flat) property is offered for sale for the first time.

The gardens are glorious, bursting with summer colours and the residence offers french door access onto the covered patio, spacious timber kitchen, light-filled living with stone accented fireplace, hardwood floors, grand-sized bathroom, a second shower ‘room,’ Wc, large laundry, covered entertaining area with open fireplace, 4 paddocks, an old tennis court, woodshed, stable, garage, workshop, covered store and another shed.

$980,000 - $1,078,000

$799,000 3A 1B 2C

outdoor entertaining will be a dream from the huge deck offering privacy & a backdrop of approximately 3,015 sqm. of mature gardens and woodlands. featuring spacious open plan living, wood fire, ducted gas heating, split system cooling, polished floor boards, walls of glass windows, updated kitchen and dual living zones, and for the tradie a mASSIVE workshop and double carport. The home has just been restumped with provision to reinstate rooms underneath. There is also a second road frontage to carramar crescent.

Grant Skipsey 0418 528 102

‘We Put You first’

1660 Burwood Highway, Belgrave Shop 2/24 McBride St, Cockatoo Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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MAIL 31

HOME FOCUS

FULLY RENOVATED AND PRIVATE HOME THIS lovingly renovated family home is bursting with character, charm and bespoke details.

There is a convenient circular driveway that leads to the home, and a welcoming front verandah. With plenty of area to park a caravan, trailer or boat.

Step inside to discover the sumptuous master bedroom located behind the ‘secret’ door. The master bedroom has its own woodfire, ceiling fan & split system air conditioner. There is a walk-in wardrobe and a lovely ensuite with a separate toilet and a double shower.

Then continue along the hall to discover three further good size bedrooms, all with generous built in wardrobes and views out to the stunning established garden and hills beyond. These bedrooms are serviced by a great family bathroom and separate toilet.

The family bathroom contains a glass less shower and a bath tub that uniquely fills with a waterfall style faucet from the vanity.

The hallway then opens to a fantastic entertaining space consisting of an open plan loungeroom/kitchen. There is a built in gas fireplace and then a fantastic kitchen. The kitchen offers a large island with generous Belling stove top and floating rangehood, with unique granite stone benchtops and lots of storage space.

There is a walk in pantry, built-in plumbed fridge and plenty of light with floor to ceiling double-glazed windows and 2 sets of bifold-doors opening out to the rear entertaining deck. There are also handy sliding, retractable flyscreens for balmy evenings relaxing inside and enjoying the breeze. The kitchen window concertinas to allow you to pass your culinary magic to your guests outdoors. The elegance continues in the vast and bright laundry/mudroom with stone benchtops and a further door to the rear yard.

The green thumb of the family will be swept away with the backyard. There is a -timber deck entertaining area, a pond amongst the established garden beds, fruit trees, and two covered vegetable gardens all

with irrigation. There is also a chicken coop, and multiple sheds for your storage needs.

Additionally there is a large, single lock up garage next to the home, with a workshop or man/she-cave! with concrete floor, and power/lighting. This property also has dual

water tanks and mains water, plus solar panels with inverters and is conveniently located next to an easement providing dual access to property and further privacy.

This property has it all so don’t miss out call to arrange a private inspection today.

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

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 23 Williamson Road, GEMBROOK Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 garage Price: $900,000 - $990,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Aaron Day 0407 365 994 or Samantha Scott 0438 680 032, BELL REAL ESTATE, EMERALD 32 MAIL

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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P 5968 6222 311-313 Main Street Emerald

23 Williamson Road, Gembrook

$900,000 - $990,000

100 Gembrook-Tonimbuk Road, Gembrook

$1,300,000 - $1,420,000

Fully Renovated & Private Home on Over ½ an Acre!

Stylish Equine Property on approx. 5 acres!

Step inside to discover the master bedroom with a woodfire, WIR, ceiling fan, split system AC & ensuite with double shower. Continue along the hall to discover 3 further bedrooms with BIRs, serviced by a family bathroom & separate toilet. There is an open plan loungeroom & kitchen with a built in gas fireplace. Then the kitchen offers a large island with Belling stove top, floating rangehood, granite stone benchtops, walk in pantry, built-in plumbed fridge, double-glazed windows & 2 sets of bifold-doors opening out to the rear timber entertaining deck. There is a pond amongst the established garden beds, fruit trees, & two covered vegetable gardens all with irrigation. There is also a chicken coop, multiple sheds, single lock up garage with concrete floor, & power/lighting. There are dual water tanks, mains water, circular driveway & solar panels with inverters.

The expansive 5 bedroom, 2 bathroom home has a formal loungeroom & a master bedroom with a large WIR & ensuite. Near the master bedroom is a further bedroom with ceiling fan & BIRs. The home has high ceilings, double glazed large windows, & reverse cycle AC. The central open plan kitchen/ dining/lounge area is flooded with natural light, & offers a wood fire heater, & kitchen with a large walk in pantry. The kitchen has a 900mm gas stove/oven, & SS appliances including dishwasher & Caesar stone benchtops. There is a laundry with it’s own external access, a study/office area, & then 3 further bedrooms, all with ceiling fans & BIRs. These bedrooms are serviced by the family bathroom & separate toilet. Externally the acreage is divided into 5 fully fenced paddocks. This home utilizes gas bottles, tank water, has 4kW solar with 18 solar panels, & mains electricity.

Aaron Day M 0407 365 994

Samantha Scott M 0438 680 032

Aaron Day M 0407 365 994

4

17 Belgrave-Gembrook Road, Cockatoo

A

2

B 1 C

$740,000 - $799,000

Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451

5

52 Patons Road, Macclesfield

A

2

B

C

$1,750,000 - $1,900,000

Character Mud Brick Home & Shed on approx. 1/3 acre!

Stylishly Renovated Home with Equine Infrastructure on Nearly 20 acres!

This picturesque north facing, sun filled, 3-bedroom mud-brick home on over 1/3 of an acre has polished floorboards & raked ceilings throughout, which add to the character along with the colonial windows & toasty new wood fire. There is also a split system AC for year round comfort. The kitchen is spacious and has SS appliances, gas stovetop, & a curved island. The master bedroom is king size with walk through robe + ensuite, & a huge walk-in robe/dressing room. The remaining bedrooms have plush carpets & stand-alone robes. Add to this a large modern laundry which leads to the main bathroom & offers external access to the large, flat rear yard. Outside there is new landscaping, new drainage & storm water, new sewer connection, new roof & gutters, as well as a double garage with workshop space, concrete floor & power.

Featuring a 40m*20m sand menage, day yards, electric fenced paddocks, hot wash, tack room, float storage, hay shed, a 3-bay barn, cross-country course, mains water & a comfortable 4-bedroom, 2 bathroom, ‘Hamptons’ style home with views & zoned heating & cooling. The home has 2 lounge areas, a dining area & entertaining deck. The master bedroom has a walk-through robe, ceiling fan & ensuite. The open plan kitchen/dining/living area has a wood fire & a 900mm gas stove & an electric oven, & the laundry has a drying cupboard. There are 3 further bedrooms with BIRs & a family bathroom. The stock yards have loading ramps, there are 5 paddocks with water, day yards, tack room, feed shed, hot wash bay, hay storage & machinery storage. There is a permanent creek, a Spring fed dam, a chicken run, an all-weather gravel driveway, & lock up garage.

Samantha Scott M 0438 680 032

Samantha Scott M 0438 680 032

3

A

2

B 2 C

4

A

2

B 8 C

bellrealestate.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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MAIL 33

HOME FOCUS

LUXURIOUS HOME IN THE HEART OF BELGRAVE SIMPLY collect the keys and move straight in to this magnificently refurbished residence within easy reach of Belgrave township.

Finished to perfection and designed for indoor-outdoor living, this property showcases how to do a renovation right.

Encircling this home is fresh new landscaping that features a sealed drive with plenty of off-street parking, Basalt rock walls, Tuscan pathways, native plants, custom shade sail, and a firepit area with rustic log seating.

The interior is a dedication to pairing style with substance, with modern upgrades including 5-star ducted heating, new split system heating/cooling unit, feature skylights, insulation, plumbing and electrical upgrades, all topped under a new Colorbond roof.

This inviting tri-level residence begins in the open plan dining area and kitchen with commercial quality vinyl plank flooring, shaker cabinets, tumbled subway tiles, Blanco oven, gas cooktop, and Fisher & Paykel dishwasher. Two spacious bedrooms with woolen carpet and a beautiful bathroom with soaking tub, floating vanity with stone benchtop, rain shower, and modern matte black tapware complete this impressive level.

On the central lounge level, a beautiful Travertine tile accent wall frames the Illusion gas log fire while double-glazed bifold doors extend this living space out to the deck with treetop views. For comfort, the sun-filled bedroom on this floor features a Walk-in robe and immaculate rain shower ensuite.

Completing this comfortable home and providing incredible adaptability for growing families is the ground floor that boasts a cosy family room leading out to the second deck plus a second ensuite bedroom that is ideal for multi-generational living, guest accommodation, or the perfect teenage retreat.

Central to bus and train transport, soughtafter schools, pristine parkland, and thriving village life, this is the perfect place to make yourself at home. Plan your viewing today.

Completely renovated 1,226sqm (approx.) property central to amenities Landscaped garden with sealed drive and ample off-street parking Open plan dining area and kitchen with sunny skylights and quality appliances Central level lounge with gas log fire and double-glazed bifold doors to the deck Lower level family room with external access to the second deck and firepit area Bedrooms and bathrooms on each level including dual ensuite bedrooms ●

· · · · · ·

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 54 Kaola Street, BELGRAVE Description: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $795,000 - $870,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Suzie Brannelly 0490 506 910 or Rachel Eastwood 0401 117 761, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 34 MAIL

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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Real Estate you can trust!

We ’ r e h e r e t o h e l p FOR SALE

44 Best Street, BELGRAVE

$1,000,000 - $1,100,000

A COMPLETE LIFESTYLE PACKAGE IN PRIME POSITION

4A2B2C

FOR SALE

$880,000 - $950,000

10 Banool Road, SELBY

4A2B4C

FAMILY HOME WITH SPECTACULAR TREETOP VIEWS

Nestled peacefully in this perfect position is a rare offering that is ideal for families who seek a beautifully balanced lifestyle. Set in a tightly held enclave that is highly regarded for being within walking distance of Belgrave Outdoor Pool, Birdsland Reserve, and the conveniences of Belgrave township including Belgrave Station, this 846sqm (approx.) property is the complete package.

This peaceful property within easy reach of Belgrave township is packed with style, space, and versatility. Ideal for large families and those who love to entertain, this 1,846sqm (approx.) property offers a lifestyle second-to-none.

Suzie Brannelly

Brad Conder

M 0490 506 910 | E suzie@chandlerandco.com.au

M 0422 639 115 | E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

Rachel Eastwood

Daniel Steen

M 0401 117 761 | E rachel!chandlerandco.com.au

M 0434 979 142 | E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

FOR SALE

13 Walter Street, TECOMA

$1,195,000 - $1,295,000

SPACIOUS & STYLISH HOME STEPS FROM TECOMA TOWNSHIP

4A2B1C

This exciting offering in the heart of Tecoma is calling buyers who refuse to settle for anything less than the best. Encapsulating the elements required for an exceptional Hills lifestyle including impressive comfort, idyllic gardens, and an exclusive location only steps from Tecoma village’s schools, train station, bus transport, shopping, and cafes, this property confirms you can have it all.

FOR SALE

468 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road, OLINDA

$1,600,000 - $1,760,000 5A4B2C

HISTORIC “HATHAWAY”

Featured in Home Beautiful magazine in 1928 and held by the same family for nearly 50 years, historic “Hathaway” is a testament to timeless architecture paired with the warmth of a family home. A joy to behold set on 6,865sqm (approx.) of lush landscape framed by Copper beech trees, this residence will capture imaginations of architectural enthusiasts searching for their forever property.

Brad Conder M 0422 639 115 | E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

Daniel Steen

Suzie Brannelly

M 0434 979 142 | E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

M 0490 506 910 | E suzie@chandlerandco.com.au

9754 6888 1689 Burwood Highway, Belgrave VIC 3160 www.chandlerandco.com.au of fice@chandlerandco.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

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NEWS

Access to abortion easier Access for women to terminate their pregnancy will be made much easier and safer in the east with abortion services now operating out of Eastern Health Box Hill.

North-Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Sonja Terpstra joined Health Minister MaryAnne Thomas at Eastern Health on Friday 24 November to mark the start of new surgical termination services.

Improved access to the surgical termination of pregnancy procedure (also known as STOP) means for many women, travel to inner city Melbourne to access care is no longer required, with services made available closer to home.

“Accessing abortion care at these additional health services means more women can get critical healthcare and support closer to home, for a less stressful experience and an easier recovery close to friends and family,” Ms Terpstra said.

Undertaking any medical procedure can be a stressful experience, and with improved access across Melbourne, more women will be able to access this critical healthcare option at their local hospital – ensuring they are closer to the support of friends and family, while also reducing the cost and time of travel.

This month marks eight years since the Labor Government passed critical legislation to introduce safe access zones around abortion providers, ensuring all Victorian women can access lawful medical services safely and privately, and free from unnecessary harassment and intimidation.

This year, Victoria also marks the 15th anniversary since the decriminalisation of abortion – the introduction of Abortion Law Reform Act in 2008 – ensuring women accessing the procedure were protected by the law.

Improving access to abortion services is just one part of the Labor Government’s record investment in women’s health – with more than

The Ministers also spoke to staff about combined endometriosis and bowel involvement surgery service, paediatric and adolescent gynae service, as well as antenatal services. $153 million in the Victorian Budget 2023/24 to improve and expand services.

“It has been 15 years since abortion was decriminalised in Victoria, meaning thousands of women have been able to make the best choice for themselves,” Ms Thomas said.

“We are proud to continue expanding these safe and accessible abortion services to all women across the state.”

This includes an additional nine sexual and

reproductive health hubs across metropolitan and regional Victoria, adding to the 11 already established – offering free or low-cost services and advice related to contraception, termination of pregnancy and sexual health testing and treatment.

Further work is also underway to improve access to women’s healthcare services, including establishing 20 new comprehensive women’s health clinics that will offer free,

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Peninsula Health is also commencing STOP and Western Health will offer the procedure soon.

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SPORT

Best view of the action

By Callum Ludwig Umpires are wanted to join the ranks of the Ringwood and District Cricket Association (RDCA) and help keep community cricket well-officiated.

Clubs from across the Outer East call the RDCA home from Powelltown to Ringwood, Boronia to Warranwood and Heathomt to Healesville interested umpires from across the region are welcome to get involved.

President of the RDCA’s Umpires Association (RDCAUA) Jordan Russell said the best thing about being an umpire in the RDCA is having the best seat in the house to watch some of local talent in the area.

“It is very important for the league to have a strong umpires base because without the umpires it would be harder for the teams and clubs as they would have to umpire themselves,” he said.

“It is critical to have an association that really supports the umpire panel. It’s a really tough job made tougher without support

Become a cricket umpire in the RDCA. from association management.”

All new umpires will be required to complete a community cricket umpiring certificate online at cricket.com.au, with other options to apply to umpire junior cricket, representative cricket (for more experienced umpires) or get reaccredited every four years.

Mr Russell said the RDCAUA meetings once

Picture: UNSPLASH a month at Jubilee Park in Ringwood where they conduct face-to-face training.

“Match commitments are for most Saturday afternoons by meeting your partner at the ground to start your day. such as setting up the stumps, checking the ground, tossing the coin, meeting the two captains and ideally, we would like people who have a car and can

drive as not all games are located with bus and train lines close by,” he said.

A basic understanding and knowledge of the laws of the game will hold any new umpires in good stead as they learn the ropes through experience with their colleagues around them, including being paired with an experienced umpire for the first few matches until they find their feet.

Mr Russell said this season they have former international umpire John Ward in their ranks while their umpires advisor also currently umpires Victorian Premier Cricket.

“Not too many competitions would have a former CA umpire coach who will assist them with their development,” he said.

“The knowledge that both of these gentlemen have is immense and they are always willing to help and assist not just new umpires but also the older ones who have been umpiring for years.”

Anyone interested in joining the RDCAUA can do so by contacting Mr Russell at J_BRussell@outlook.com or 0413 357 444.

A washed out cricket weekend Rain forced the wash out of all of Monbulk Cricket Club’s senior teams on the weekend, as well as majority of its junior teams.

With Fast 9s having the bye, the u12s got to strut their stuff as the only team to play this week.

They put up a good fight, but fell just short. To see them playing is the main thing.

Scores: U12’s - Monbulk 4/88 (S. Czaja 18*, N. Taylor 14*, J. Chudasko 8*, E. Toohey 7*) vs Knox Gardens 1/101 (N. Taylor 1/10) The MCC has its annual Christmas Party at the MCC on 16 December from 7pm.

People are invited to bring friends and family and enjoy a fun night. with a special guest appearance at 8pm.

· · ·

Most senior and junior teams were unable to play due to a washout over the weekend.

Picture: ON FILE

Athletes on the big stage, spread far and wide Liam Russell 1:30.46; Mitchell Pointon · 600m: 1:37.56 (Record U16); Hamish De Wit 1:39.59; · Mile: Mitchell Pointon 5:03.65; (Mitchell Mullens, Liam Russell) · 2x100m: 22.66 (Record Open); (Mitchell Pointon, Ash

By Jamie Strudley Another big week for Yarra Ranges Athletics with our athletes spread far and wide, records being broken and our athletes on the big stage at Zatopek.

The week’s competitions started with the opening round of HVC for the summer. The series is specifically for sprinters (High Velocity Club). Liam Russell travelled to Lakeside Stadium to continue his chase for PB’s coming away with a Club Record 60m of 7.87 seconds and a 53.15 second 400m effort.

Next up was our senior team competing in round six of the AVSL season. Some outstanding individual and relay performances from the night including a win for Mitch Mullens in heat one of the 60m and 15 new club records.

Results from the night are: Women 60m: Ashleigh Rooke 08.48 (-2.1) (Record Open & U20); Kayla Paton 08.60 (-0.2) (Record U16); Shani Bullard 08.73 (-0.4); Georgia Boundy 08.76 (-0.4); Emily Fiedler 08.98 (Record U14); Taryn Bourke 08.99; Erica Purcell 10.25 (-1.7); 600m: Kristina Nackovski 1:45.97 (Record Open & U16); Rori Jones 1:51.49 (Record U20); Mia Strudley 1:52.41; Taryn Bourke 1:53.12; Ashleigh Rooke 1:56.19; Erica Purcell 2:26.11; Mile: Mia Strudley 5:47.39; Rori Jones 5:55.19; 2000m Walk: Carolyn Rosenbrock 11:10.9h

·

· · ·

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

Almond) 26.36;

· High Jump: Ash Almond 1.43m; Jump: Liam Russell 5.49m; Ash Almond · Long 4.53m; Put: Ash Almond 8.24m; Mitchell Mul· Shot lens 7.64m; Yarra Ranges Athletics little athletes competed in the club team competition, with the Mustangs taking home the trophy.

Picture: SUPPLIED (Record Open & 40+); Emilie Garside 12:51.4h; 2x100m: (Taryn Bourke, Ashleigh Rooke) 27.60 (record Open); (Kayla Paton, Emily Fiedler) 27.70 (Record U16); High Jump: Shani Bullard 1.33m; Long Jump: Ashleigh Rooke 4.30m; Shani Bullard 4.23m; Emily Fiedler 4.12m (Record U14); Kayla Paton 4.05m; Erica Purcell 3.20m; Sharon Cook 2.16m Shot Put: Hayley Wilkins 8.61m; Ashleigh Rooke 7.96m; Anne-Marie Ebbels 6.82m; Sharon Cook 6.53m; Shani Bullard 6.40m; Men 60m: Mitchell Mullens 07.26 (-1.4) (Record Open); Liam Russell 08.02 (-1.6);

· · · · ·

Saturday afternoon saw the Little Athletics competition continue, this week the eagerly awaited “Combined Events” round. A round where athletes compete in five preselected events with every performance generating points. Athletes with the highest points total from all events are awarded medals. Competition was friendly but fierce as athletes continued their quest for PB’s. Results in next week’s report. Mustangs were awarded the Club Champions trophy after a hard fought team championship round the previous weekend.

Saturday night was a new version of a traditional night of distance running at Lakeside Stadium. The annual Zatopek meet was held this year with the support of On. A bridge over the track for spectators to stand on the infield, a 30m tent spanning all lanes for athletes to run through on the back straight, DJ pumping out sounds all night and some of Australia’s very best athletes on show made for a fantastic evening. Yarra Ranges Athletics got to support

two club members during the evening.

Zoe Clarke showed she is returning to form with an excellent seventh place in the Sarah Jamieson U16 Mile, while Harry Norman ran in the main event, the Zatopek 10,000 race finishing a solid 20th in what was also the Australian 10000m Championships.

Good luck to Brigette Rice and Bradley McMeeken who are competing at the Australian All Schools Track and Field Championships in Perth next weekend. The seniors have a weekend off, perhaps to enjoy some home track action watching the Little Athletics competition on Saturday morning from 8.30am.

Training for six-12yo continues on Tuesdays from 4pm. Seniors training (13yo plus) is on Tuesday and Thursday from 5.30pm at Morrison Reserve. Check the socials and website for more details and sessions available with our throws and jumps coaches. 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 lavic.com.au or 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! mailcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Competitors but friends Heavy rain prevented bowling for Pennant this first Saturday in summer. Bowlers at Monbulk waited an hour for the downpour to ease, but eventually the pin was pulled.

It was disappointing for the Monbulk bowlers in the top side because they have just come off two bad losses in away games, and this weekend was going to be a chance to win back some points on their home turf.

Nevertheless, the day wasn’t a total loss— the opposing bowlers, from Upwey-Tecoma,

were called into the club room for a special presentation of $1000 from Monbulk Bowling Club.

This donation was to assist in the rebuilding of resources after Upwey-Tecoma was recently scammed out of a large sum of money. It was a good example of the camaraderie among bowlers who can, at the same time, be fierce competitors on the bowling green.

The points for this abandoned round will be split, leaving Monbulk on sixth place on the

Eric Markham donating cheque from Monbulk to Upwey-Tecoma.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Tigers stay red hot, maul Eagles in rare sunshine

By Sean Talbot On a weekend that threatened to wash away any chances of a game, the Upwey Ferntree Gully Tigers took full advantage of the sunny conditions on Sunday at Kings Park, scoring early, often and without restraint as they belted the visiting Sunshine Eagles to the tune of a 12-2, mercy-rule shortened game that showed off the Tigers continuing purple patch of form as they look to turn their season around after a less than stellar start for the two-time defending champions.

Sending staff ace Jarrod Turner for his eighth start of the season, the right-hander was simply outstanding, scattering 6 hits and 2 earned runs over 7 innings while issuing no walks and striking out 4 while continuing his incredible season at the head of the Tigers rotation. The Upwey hitters gave Sunshine starter Jamie Young no ability to settle into his work, jumping the hulking righty for 3 runs in the bottom of the 1st as Peter Schroeders walked a 9-pitch walk, Jack Ratcliffe doubled to put runners at 2nd and 3rd and giving Tigers cleanup hitter Josh Hendricks the ability to cash in on a hanging slider, hitting a booming double to left-centre to score Schroeders and Ratcliffe, before coming round himself to score on Wade McConnon’s RBI single.

It was more of the same in the 2nd for the Tigers, as Schroeders, Ratcliffe and Jordan Elliott all singled before Schroeders and Ratcliffe were chased home by Staci Rogers’ 2-run, 2-out double. Skipper Donavon Hendricks walked to load the bases, however the Tigers left the bases loaded after McConnon flied out to deep right field.

After Turner conceded two runs to the Eagles in the top of the 3rd after a string of base hits, the Tigers answered in kind as Nick Rice and Andy Kane both singled, advanced on an error by Sunshine third baseman Jeremy Young off the bat of Schroeders before a single to Elliott and a bases-loaded walk to Rogers plated 2 further runs, chasing starter Young from the game. Connor Hughes took the ball for the visitors in the 4th, working out of trouble in the 4th and 5th innings to keep the lead from blowing out, before the Tigers opened the floodgates again in the 6th, scoring 3 runs after a flurry of base hits and walks to D. Hendricks, McConnon, Kane, Schroeders, Ratcliffe and Elliott.

Turner finished his day after a scoreless 7th innings, needing only a handful of pitches to sit the Eagles down in order. Adam Irons took the mound for Sunshine, holding the Tigers scoreless in the 7th to ensure the game saw an 8th inning. Sean Meldrum took the ball for Upwey in the 8th, working around a leadoff base hit to sit the next 3 Sunshine hitters down, before the Tigers decided they had enough for the day and invoked the 10run mercy rule after another Schroders hit was followed by another Ratcliffe double and a hard hit ball from Josh Hendricks which the Sunshine infielders couldn’t get a handle on, resulting in Ratclife scurrying home to score the 12th and game ending run.

As mentioned, Turner was again sensational in his start, working around lead-off hits in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd innings to keep the Eagles hitters at bay, while the offense mailcommunity.com.au

Left to right: coaches Donavon Hendricks, Stuart Chinn, Mark Jones and Ash Winton.

Picture: SUPPLIED was lead by Schroeders (3 hits, 2 RBI), Ratcliffe (3 hits, 1 RBI), Rogers (2 hits, 3 RBI), McConnon (2 hits, 1 RBI) and Kane (2 hits), though it truly was a whole team effort to secure the points.

The win sees Upwey improve to 6-5 and remain tied for 6th with Sandringham, Moorabbin and Blackburn and well within striking distance of the Top 8, a spot required to ensure they are able to play off for a threepeat come the back half of the season. The Tigers host Moorabbin on Tuesday before

travelling to Williamstown in what promises to be a competitive matchup between the defending champions and last seasons Division 2 runners-up.

Looking to rebound after a tough loss last weekend against Berwick, the Upwey Reserves also hosted a Sunshine team looking to approve on their abysmal 1-6-1 record.

The hosts scored first in the bottom of the 1st inning, exchanging a scoreless 2nd before the Sunshine hitters jumped starter Wes de Jong in the 3rd inning for 3 runs, catching the

Upwey defense flat footed while taking advantage of some batted balls that found grass that could’ve arguably been caught. To his credit, de Jong shook it off and went back to work, throwing 3 scoreless innings to finish his day with a crafty 6 innings of work. The Upwey hitters also responded in kind after the lead change, scoring in the 3rd, 4th and 5th innings to stretch the lead back to a 5-3 Upwey advantage, with reliever Josh Yung ensuring the Tigers ran out winners in what was an incredibly competitive game. de Jong was outstanding in his start, going 6 innings to scatter 5 hits and 1 walk while punching out 6 in what is sure to be an encouraging sign for Coach Hendricks for his veteran left hander as he battles for innings behind Turner, before Yung continued to dominate his relief appearances, giving up 1 hit and striking out 1 in his only inning of work. Ethan Jenkins and Randy Senn lead the way with the bats for the Tigers with 3 hits and 1 RBI each, ensuring the Tigers kept the pressure on Sunshine pitchers Griffin Weir and Earl Byrne all day.

Suffering through an interesting scheduling choice by the governing body, the Tigers 3rds and 4ths were penciled in to play on Saturday rather than Sunday, and as such were unable to take the field due to the heavy deluge of rain that fell over Melbourne, resulting in a pair of washouts that must’ve been a welcome result for the hosting Eagles, who were most likely staring down the barrel of getting belted in a pair of games that shaped up to be overly one-sided. The Tigers host the visiting Williamstown Wolves this weekend as they look to continue their dominant starts.

Hosting Melbourne, the Regional Metro East 5ths came out in top of a see-saw game, escaping with a 7-5 win that was never beyond the reach of an upset. The Tigers hitters were unable to put the game beyond doubt, however they ensured that they kept enough runs on the scoreboard to weather the storm and take the points in an entertaining and competitive game at Kings Park on Sunday.

The win sees the team improve their record to 5-4 and sit clear in 4th place, a full game clear of Monash Uni in 5th. The Tigers are back on the road next week as they travel to the aforementioned Monash Uni in what promises to be another great game.

Also at home but hosting Blackburn, the Regional Metro South 6ths took no mercy on their local rivals and ensuring the drive back to Billabong Park (or Billabong Lake after the weekend) was an unhappy one as they inflicted a 10-3 loss on the Burners. The visitors were never truly in the contest as Upwey jumped them from the get and kept going, putting no doubt to the result as they continued to score and widen the gap as the game went on. The win sees the Tigers now sit with a 5-4 and clear in 3rd place before hitting the road and travelling to Chelsea to take on the Dolphins next weekend.

Also falling victim to the rain, the Lady Tigers were also unable to get a game in, ensuring the latest chapter in the storied Upwey v Waverley rivalry will have to wait another day. The team continues to sit in 1st place with a perfect 8-0 record as they look ahead to next Saturday as they find themselves back on the road to take on Pakenham White.

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