Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 27th February 2024

Improving connectivity

Wanting to improve accessibility and safety through the Dandenong Ranges has led to calls from the Olinda Bike Trail Committee for a feasibility study into the plan.

The trail would join Lilydale Station to Olinda with an added three-kilometre section linking up the entire track and making it wider for safety.

Meeting for a ride from Mount Evelyn to Olinda on Thursday 22 February, the group announced the proposal it would put forward to Yarra Ranges Council, Parks Victoria and Melbourne Water.

To read more, go to page 5

Mark Dodemond, Ron Thomas, Irene Moser and Michael Slattery have put forward a proposal for the Olinda Creek Trail to be made bike-friendly. 385240

The clean up continues across the Dandenong Ranges two weeks on from the ravaging storms that wiped out power and uprooted trees.

Emerald SES unit controller Ben Owen said the unit had received over 500 calls on the day of the storm mostly for trees down, people trapped in their homes and rescues.

Over in Knox, deputy controller of training Trudi Prat said while it was quickly established the storm had caused major damage, with calls not filtering through until the following days, the impact was not fully comprehensible

for 72 hours after the storm hit.

Now as the efforts of emergency services to restore order to the communities most impacted carry on, residents look to recovering funds and lost goods.

Locally, places like the Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service have opened up the offer for free food and fuel vouchers to those not eligible for state grants.

However, Prolonged Power Outage Payments have been extended to cater for the two storm events that occurred in quick succes-

sion on Tuesday 13 and Thursday 22 February.

The grants have been expanded to households that have been without power for seven days cumulatively, with payments $1,920 per week, for up to three weeks.

Victorian Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio said that the storms caused significant damage to residential properties and private electricity infrastructure across parts of Victoria.

“We’re making sure those impacted twice have access to the support they need,” she said.

And while recovery is front of mind for many in the east, another predicted extreme fire day is expected for Wednesday 28 February with the Bureau of Meteorology expecting many areas will be upgraded to a catastrophic rating.

It comes as many firefighters from the outer east joined the response in the state’s west to battle a blaze, that on Monday, was not yet under control.

To read more, turn to page 2

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Storm recovery carries on

By Tanya Steele and Tyler Wright

Storm recovery continues across Victoria and the SES in Emerald and Knox have reported massive and ongoing devastation in their local areas.

The recent storm that wiped out power across the state on Tuesday 13 February has left behind a trail of destruction, with volunteers still responding to calls for help in the community.

VICSES has now responded to nearly 6000 requests for assistance since the severe storms and SES Unit Controller from Emerald Ben Owen said that Emerald SES had received over 500 calls on the day of the storm.

“We had approximately 100 people a day working in the field to clear trees from roads, driveways and property including people’s homes,” he said.

Initial responses on the day of the storm came in for rescue persons trapped in homes and cars and deputy controller of training from the SES Knox unit, Trudi Prat said it was pretty evident very quickly, that there were some pretty extreme issues with what she described as a ‘micro storm’ that went through the area last week.

“The worst impacted areas that we had –and it was almost instantaneous, was Ferntree Gully and Knoxfield followed by Rowville,” she said.

Mr Owen said the Emerald crew, with assistance from Pakenham, helped to free two trapped residents from their home in Ladd Square shortly after 6pm.

“It took some time to access the residents and get them to the waiting ambulance,” he said.

“Our crew then worked on trying to open up roads with the assistance of CFA late into the evening,” he said.

Ms Pratt said at the height of the storm the

pager was not keeping up with the amount of calls going through.

“So on the first evening, we had about 175 callouts,” she said.

“They just kept coming through over into the night and the next 48 hours.”

By Wednesday morning on 14 February, Mr Owen said Emerald SES had back up with assistance from Victoria police, Ambulance Victoria, Yarra Ranges Council and Fire Rescue Victoria.

“All were assisting with assessing the impact on the area,” he said.

“It’s caused a lot of devastation and destruction around the area – as of 16 February on Friday, we’ve had over 380 jobs and requests for assistance that were attended to,” Ms Pratt said

“Mainly, it was trees that were basically

snapped halfway up the trunk and thrown into buildings onto roads, or split, with the ferocity of that wind that came through,” she said.

A number of SES volunteers who had damage to their own properties and who were without power continued to respond to calls for assistance to support the community.

Victoria State Premier Jacinta Allan visited the SES Emerald unit on Friday 17 February and the VICSES CEO Greg Leach visited SES units in both greater Dandenong and Knox on Monday 19 February to thank the volunteers for their efforts.

Mr Leach said it was a pleasure to be able to drop into the Knox Unit and thank our volunteers first-hand.

“Many SES volunteers were responding to requests for assistance over several days, so we certainly appreciate their hard work and com-

Storms ease as fire crews battle blaze

Residents across the east were asked to brace yet again for both storm and fire risk with winds up to 80km per hour expected and a total fire ban in place for the central district on Thursday 22 February.

While the storm did not “pack as much punch” as the previous week’s storm in the east, fire crews from District 13 responded to a major blaze that’s not yet under control in the state’s west.

Firefighters from Lilydale, Mount Evelyn, Silvan, Kallista-The Patch, Belgrave, Badger Creek, Warrandyte and Scoresby were among the initial strike team who responded to Beaufort.

More than 500 firefighters continue to battle the blaze, which has burnt through 17,000 hectares.

Victorian Emergency Services Minister Jaclyn Symes said Country Fire Authority chief Jason Heffernan has expressed “grave concern” about the forecast, particularly on Wednesday 28 February.

“We’re expecting not only high temperatures but also wind...and given the hot weather that we’ve had in recent weeks a lot of drying has occurred,” she said.

The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted extreme fire danger in western Victoria for Wednesday.

“There’s a possibility that even more areas could see that extreme fire danger rating or even a chance they could be upgraded to catastrophic fire danger,” meteorologist Angus Hines said.

Advice from VicEmergency states residents should assess their bushfire plan and movements forWednesday and have multiple routes prepared for exit should roads suddenly close.

Last week, several thousand homes were without power again with the Lilydale power grid experiencing a fault.

Wandin East, Wandin North, Seville, Silvan, Gruyere, Mount Evelyn, Kalorama and Coldstream were impacted, with close to 5000 homes without power.

Further incidents were recorded along the Emerald power line in Macclesfield, Avonsleigh, Cockatoo and Emerald.

Victorian Energy Minister Lily D’Ambrosio has commissioned an independent review into the wild weather event on 13 February which left more than half a million properties without power.

“We had a similar review following the 2021 storm events,” Premier Jacinta Allan told reporters on Tuesday 20 February.

“It is appropriate and usual practice that following a weather event like this you engage the expert advice to look at what happened and then put in place any further recommendations.”

Ms D’Ambrosio also criticised the outer eastern suburb power supplier AusNet last week after a delay in the application system for compensation.

She said the delay was not on and made her anger clear in conversations with the provider.

“Here is another example where a privatised power company has failed to deliver in time for communities that are in need,” Ms D’Ambrosio told reporters at state parliament on Wednesday 21 February.

“It is absolutely unacceptable.”

The Federal and Victorian Government’s have partnered on a coordinated cleanup, with

the help of disaster recovery specialist Hansen Yuncken.

The cleanup will include the demolition of damaged houses, asbestos and other hazard disposal, as well as hazardous tree removal.

The Victorian Government will also establish a centralised green waste facility for the cleanup and is continuing to work with the Commonwealth Government to finalise its location.

It adds to the emergency re-establishment grants of up to $49,300 for people who are uninsured and their primary place of residence has been destroyed or is uninhabitable and the Community Recovery Officer deployed to Ararat Rural City, Casey City, Cardinia Shire, South Gippsland Shire andYarra Ranges Shire to help identify the recovery needs of individuals and families.

Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service is also providing support to people who may be ineligible for grants but still had a loss of food, and/or extra fuel or ice expenses by providing free vouchers for food and/or fuel.

DRERS is open 9am to 12.30pm Monday to Friday, and can be contacted on 9754 7777 or enquire@drers.org.au

mitment along with our partner agencies,” he said.

Mr Owen said that special mention must go to those from Emerald SES and their families who assisted with the task of ensuring all responders had warm meals and drinks.

“Many of the items on offer came from kind donations from the community,” he said.

The SES have a number of resources available online for storm preparedness. Some easy tips to increase the safety of your property before a storm hits include keeping trees and branches away from your home, parking undercover, keeping gutters, downpipes and drains clean, securing outdoor furniture and trampolines and preparing an emergency kit.

During a storm, the community is advised to stay indoors and away from windows, avoid travel if possible and have essential supplies to last for at least three to five days, including food, drinking water, medications and pet food.

Monitor weather warnings and forecasts at the Bureau of Meteorology website, and warnings through the VicEmergency app, website and hotline (1800 226 226) and by listening to emergency broadcasters such as ABC local radio, designated commercial radio andTV news stations.

Outreach teams here to help

Council staff will visit storm-affected communities from Monday 26 February as part of Council’s mobile community outreach program in response to last week’s storm.

Members of Council’s Emergency Management and Community Strengthening teams will be available at a number of local cafes to have a chat, provide information and referrals for support, and to answer any questions.

Council invites members of the storm-affected communities to join the team for a cuppa and chat, to ask questions and to pick up an information pack.

The community outreach program for storm-affected communities will be at the following locations:

Tuesday 27 February

· Emerald Village Bakery, 7-11 Kilvington Drive, Emerald, 8:30am–5pm

Wednesday 28 February

· Avonsleigh General Store, 445 Belgrave-Gembrook Road, Avonsleigh, 8:30am–1pm

· Up the Hill Bakehouse, Shop 1, 35-37 Beaconsfield-Emerald Road, Beaconsfield Upper, 1:30pm–5pm

Thursday 29 February

· Hairy Dog Cafe, 68 Main Street, Gembrook, 8:30am–5pm

Friday 1 March

· The General Food Store, 377 BelgraveGembrook Road, Emerald, 8:30am–5pm.

For more information, visit: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/stormrecovery

Fire crews from the outer east, including Lilydale CFA, formed part of the strike team sent to Beaufort.

Picture: (AAP IMAGE/POOL, DAVID CROSLING)

Winds ripped through the suburbs, with trees snapping halfway up their trucks. Pictures: SES KNOX

Large trees that have toppled during the storm remain part of a big clean up effort.

Protest charges laid

By Tanya Steele

Charges have been laid against a group of proPalestine activists after they allegedly climbed a rooftop at an engineering company in Bayswater.

Police have charged eight people after their protest at Rosebank Engineering in Bayswater on Monday, 19 February.

Whistleblowers, Activists and Communities Alliance (WACA) protester Gayle Demanueule stated in a video via social media during the protest that Rosebank Engineering is a manufacturing company ‘given money by the Australian Government to tool up for the war machine.’

“This company makes a part called an actuator uplift, which is an F-35 part, it opens the bomb bay doors to allow bombs to be dropped on Palestinians in Gaza,” she said.

“We call on the workers here at Rosebank Engineering to down tools on all parts of the war machine. We ask you to use your skills for climate solutions for health, education and housing.”

A statement from Victoria Police said it is believed the group climbed the roof of the Mountain Highway business about 6am, before allegedly refusing to come down for a number of hours.

WACA posted the protest over social media, saying the protest on the roof of Rosebank En-

gineering lasted for over 12 hours.

The group engaged with police late Monday afternoon and advised they were ready to come down from the roof.

Officers organised a cherry picker to ensure those involved were brought to the ground safely.

Police stated that all protestors have been charged with criminal damage, trespass, and being disguised with unlawful intent, and have been bailed to face Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on 11 July.

No one was injured.

Rosebank Engineering was contacted for comment.

Bizarre, expensive loss ‘disappointing’ act

By Tanya Steele

The Ferntree Gully Cricket and Football Netball Club was hit by a bizarre theft, discovering an expensive and heavy piece of equipment was missing from their home grounds.

A cricket pitch cover, weighing an approximate two tonnes, was stolen from the clubs leaving them baffled.

“That’s the thing we can’t get our head around - you can’t just throw it all in your car and take off,” Ferntree Gully Cricket Club president Lee Thompson said.

Knox Police are currently investigating the matter and said the missing winter cricket pitch cover is estimated to be worth more than $5000. The cover is believed to have been stolen from the sporting reserve on Brenock Park Drive between 19 February and 22 February.

Mr Thompson said the act was disappointing and is asking the public for assistance locating the missing cover.

“The people that did this are not obvi-

Picture:TANYASTEELE

ously not very community minded,” he said.

“The covers are valuable bits of equipment and weigh about two tonnes.”

Victoria Police said in a statement that

“Investigators have been told the cover, which is made of artificial grass and used

over winter, is very heavy and would require a crane or hydraulic rolling machine to remove it.”

The pitch cover is used by both clubs to go over the top of existing astroturf cricket pitches to protect the wicket for the next season and for when footballers use the grounds to have a softer surface to play on.

The alleged crime comes after MrThompson said the club suffered a break in in October last year when people stole alcohol and food from their venue.

Mr Thompson said the recent act would probably have taken some“level of organisation and professionalism.”

“That’s the thing we can’t get our head around, it was quite bizarre and disappointing,” he said. “You never know, somebody in the community might get talking and maybe someone saw something,” he said.

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

IN BRIEF

Cars collide in Tecoma

A two car accident occurred in Tecoma on Thursday 22 February has left drivers with no injuries.

Two cars collided on Glenfern Ave on Burwood Highway and police and local CFA attended the scene.

A spokesperson from Ambulance Victoria confirmed that paramedics were called to the incident at about 12.35pm.

“No emergency treatment or transport was required,” they said.

Sinkhole causes havoc in The Basin

A sinkhole on the corner of Mountain Highway and Basin Court in The Basin slowed traffic for around four hours on Friday 23 March.

SES Knox attended the scene directing traffic whilst waiting Vic Roads.

Section Leader at SES Knox Liam Ross said the traffic was quite busy on the Friday afternoon around school pickup time when the SES arrived.

“We basically dealt with traffic management, but it was very busy - especially in that part of the Basin.

Mr Ross said that Vic Roads attended around 6pm on Friday.

“They informed us they were going to put a plate over the hole until the hole could be fixed,” he said.

Mr Ross said that sinkholes can occur for a number of reasons.

“They vary from off the roadside from burst watermains, to then roads giving way,” he said. Vic Road have placed a metal cover on the sinkhole and the road is safe to drive on for now.

Over 50,000 distracted drivers caught on new cameras

The six new distracted driver cameras rolled out in Victoria have detected over 50,000 offences across the road network in just six months from 1 July 2023.

Using AI-enabled cameras to capture highresolution images of drivers with images then passed to a human verifier to further assess before an infringement notice is issued.

From 1 July to 30 December 2023 the cameras detected 53,105 offences, including 16,499 drivers and 6,375 passengers not wearing seatbelts, and 30,231 drivers using mobile phones.

Minister for Police Anthony Carbines said their message to drivers is clear.

“If you are using your phone while driving or not buckled up, these cameras will catch you,” he said.

“Too many lives have been lost because drivers have been distracted and these road safety cameras are proven to be one of the most effective ways to stop this dangerous behaviour and save lives.”

Drivers face penalties of four demerit points and a $577 fine when caught using a mobile phone while driving, and three demerit points and a $385 fine for not wearing a seatbelt correctly.

More than 140 drivers and passengers killed on Victorian roads in the last five years were not wearing a seatbelt - that’s just over a quarter of all vehicle occupants where seatbelt status was known.

For more information about Victoria’s road safety cameras visit vic.gov.au/cameras-savelives.

Chargeswerelaidafteranallegedalldayprotest.

Pictures:X Policestatedtheybelievedtheprotestors climbedtheroofaround6am.

Could advocacy lead to peri-regional recognition?

By Callum Ludwig

The push for the Yarra Ranges to be considered peri-regional to reflect the varied needs and lifestyles of the region continues.

Peri-regional is a term not yet recognised by the State or Federal Government, despite the recognition of peri-urban status, following the advocacy of the Peri-Urban Group of Councils (PUCV) and similar groups in states around the country.

Newly-appointed Chair of the PUCV and East Ward Councillor at Baw Baw Shire Michael Leaney said an invitation had been extended to Yarra Ranges Council to join the group.

“We need to get a definitive answer as to what peri-urban is so when you look at the Yarra Ranges as an example, Lilydale and Chirnside Park are not peri-urban, they’re basically suburban Melbourne,” he said.

“But when you go to Healesville or Warburton, they’ve got different needs and they’ve got to have different funding streams, you can’t apply what applies in Chirnside Park to what’s going to work in Warburton.”

Yarra Ranges Council confirmed that they were offered the opportunity to join the PUCV in 2023 but politely declined.

Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Sophie Todorov said councils under both terms share similar characteristics and can be eligible for similar funding opportunities.

“The PUCV Group is made up of Councils classified as regional under the Local Government Act – typically characterised as growth Councils or having areas of growth, such as regional cities,” she said.

“Peri-regional Councils are, meanwhile, on the urban fringe, classified as metropolitan but have regional characteristics that are intentionallyandstrategicallybeingretained. For example, slower population growth, high conservation value areas like Green Wedge, agriculture and tourism industries,”

“However, peri-regional is not a recognised term by the State Government, and more used to describe the balance of our formal definition as a metropolitan Council, alongside our regional characteristics.”

Mornington Peninsula Shire has joined the Yarra Ranges in pushing for the recognition of peri-regional status, sharing similarly large contrast between townships, such as between the increasingly residential Mornington suburb and a town like Red Hill, where viticulture and agricultural ventures dominate the landscape.

Both councils are also part of the Interface Councils group of ten local councils in outer

metropolitan Melbourne that form a ’ring’ around the more inner suburban or metro areas.

Mr Leaney said between these councils around the outer ring of Melbourne, quite often there are existing towns and communities that are seeing huge growth pour into them and are having to be retrofitted to accommodate it.

“It’s not like those areas where they just have bare paddocks and they build a whole entirely new community, these are existing locations that are developed and have very strong farming communities in these areas and people want to maintain their right to

farm,” he said.

“It’s part of the reason why people find these communities highly desirable is because they want that mix of the lifestyle and the environment but we’ve got to be very careful that we don’t kill the golden goose,”

“We’ve got a very challenging line to go down to make sure that we maintain our character and we maintain the look and feel of our communities yet cope with the growth that is happening and will happen into the future.”

The PUCV consists of the Bass Coast Shire Council, Baw Baw Shire Council, Golden Plains Shire Council, Moorabool Shire Council and the Surf Coast Shire Council.

Mr Leaney said the PUCV have regular delegations to Canberra and Spring Street to advocate to the Federal and State governments.

“One of the things that we’re talking to the politicians in Canberra about next week is the development of what we’re calling a PerUrban Future Fund, because both the Federal and State governments have come out with these big housing statements, which is great, but we need to have the enabling infrastructure on the ground to make it happen,” he said.

“We’ve been saying that there needs to be money put into the gaps that already exist, by the state and feds, because there’s no point in saying we need to build more houses if we don’t have any money to build the childcare centres or schools.”

The PUCV has prioritised Transport and Digital Connectivity, Planning and Land Activation, Local Liveability Infrastructure and Tourism Infrastructure, with digital connectivity, public transport and tourism infrastructure in particular concerns that are shared in the Yarra Ranges.

Mr Leaney said he thinks that branching away from basing funding access on shire boundaries would be of benefit.

“A shire boundary holds almost no relevance to the communities within it, they do that for administrative ease,” he said.

“Federal and State government need to take a look at making zones and allow the maps to be a little bit more fluid as opposed to the hard and fast line of a council boundary that in Victoria’s case, was written up in the mid-1990s,”

“I think as an organisation we’ve been able to make some really strong strides in the last few years, especially in Canberra. It often feels like three steps forward, two and a half steps back but this is a long road and to get

Ejection from interjection

By Mikayla van Loon

Casey MP Aaron Violi was asked to leave the chamber in parliament last week for repeated interjection during question time.

Speaker of the House of Representatives Milton Dick used his right under Standing Order 94(a) to eject MrVioli from the chamber for an hour on Thursday 15 February.

It was during a question being answered by treasurer Dr Jim Chalmers about the stage three tax cuts that passed earlier that day and unemployment that Mr Violi was said to have interrupted.

“In that answer, the member for Casey interjected eight times continuously. He will leave the chamber under 94(a),” Speaker Dick said.

“He’s been continually interjecting for the last two weeks. It is simply not acceptable for people not to show some restraint and to just continually interject during a question and an answer.”

This made it the fifth time, according to data published by The Sydney Morning Herald in January, that Mr Violi was removed.

MrVioli told Star Mail he would always be a voice for his community.

“Our community sent me to Canberra to be a strong local voice and this includes holding the government to account in Parliament,” he said.

Picture:

“Local residents, families and small businesses are struggling under Labor’s cost of living crisis. I hear this every time I’m out in our community.”

The stage three tax cuts bill was amended to provide a larger return for taxpayers who earned under $150,000, with those over the threshold receiving a slightly better tax cut than normal.

Dr Chalmers said in question time on Thursday the government did this for “the truckies and for the teachers…the steelworkers and the health workers…the nurses and the plumbers”.

“It means all 13.6 million Australian taxpayers can now look forward to a tax cut on 1 July.

It means 11 and a half million of them can look forward to a bigger tax cut on 1 July,” he said.

“[The cuts] are relief, they are reform, and they are responsible. They’re better for Middle Australia and better for the economy.

“They lay bare the main difference between this side of the House and that side of the House. We want more people to earn more and to keep more of what they earn. Those opposite want people working longer for less.”

In Parliament on Wednesday 14 February, Mr Violi spoke on a matter of public importance brought forward by Deakin MP Michael Sukkar; the cost of living.

MrVioli claimed the“Prime Minister misled the Australian people over 100 times” having promised pre and post election to implement the previously agreed to tax cuts legislated by the former Liberal government.

“His solution to these challenges for the Australian people is $15 a week in five months time.

“But the other bit he doesn’t talk about is when the government made a decision last year to let the low- and middle-income tax offset lapse. That was $1,500 a year taken away from the Australian people.”

Mr Violi said on Wednesday the tax cuts were “all about the politics” but the prime minister has previously said the current economic situation required the amendment.

“The treasurer may claim his government ‘genuinely care about the cost-of-living pressures that people confront’ but Labor’s track record shows otherwise,” he told Star Mail.

“The Labor Government has broken its promise to make life cheaper and easier. Labor promised to cut power bills by $275 a year, instead electricity is up 20 per cent.

“Labor promised cheaper childcare, yet families have told me their costs have increased by up to $13 per day. Under Labor, fuel prices, insurances and groceries are soaring, interest paid on mortgages has tripled and renters are paying the highest rents since 2009.”

A further four MPs were also removed by the speaker with Herbert MP Phillip Thompson, Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh, Groom MP Garth Hamilton and Moreton MP Graham Perrett ejected on Thursday.

Rowdy behaviour in question time has been common practice of the debate since parliament’s inception in 1901.

The Sydney Morning Herald article on 4 January found that Federal MPs had been ejected 118 since the Labor Government was elected in 2022 as the 47th parliament.

The Liberal Party’s Mr Sukkar and Barker MP Tony Pasin topped the table at 15 times each for being asked by the speaker to leave the chamber.

The needs of Yarra Ranges townships differ greatly from one another, with townships like Warburton more regional in nature. Pictures: ON FILE

Towns like Lilydale form the more suburban aspect of the Yarra Ranges.

Casey MP Aaron Violi was removed from the chamber on Thursday 15 February after continuous interjections. 331688

STEWART CHAMBERS

Bike trail push is still on

By Tyler Wright

The Olinda Bike Trail Committee is still pushing to get cyclists off the roads in the Dandenongs through a proposal for a bike trail from Lilydale Station right through to Olinda.

The trail would connect existing trails as well as adding a new three-kilometre section of trail connecting Swansea Road toYork Road.

The committee is calling for a feasibility study - costing an estimated $125,000 - to be funded by the council.

It would assess the amount of infrastructure needed to bring the trail to the commonly recognised shared use trail standard, which is mostly 2.5 metres, according to the committee’s budget submission.

Some short distances may be mixed use trail standard of 1.0m width, according to the document.

“We want to have an access like this, get as many people as possible off the road, off the mountain, off Mount Dandenong Tourist Road, so you can actually drive up there without killing anybody or being killed; that’s a high priority,” committee chairperson Ron Thomas said.

“The other thing about this is that it’s environmentally friendly; the tracks already exist, we’re not going to bulldoze anything; the only bit that hasn’t been done yet is across the road, between Swansea and York, and that is an absolute tip; It’s full of weeds and proper landscaping, a proper trail through there, it’s going to be improved.

“It’s going to be protecting the environment, protecting the wildlife because we’re not going to have people driving their mountain bikes up everywhere; there’s going to be a designated trail and only that trail will be used.“

Mr Thomas said the path will also create access to businesses along the trail, boosting tourism in the area.

“The flow on effects could be enormous for the business here as well,“ he said.

At a Yarra Ranges Council meeting in May 2022, then Environment and Infrastructure Director Mark Varmalis, told councillors he would convene with the council’s recreation and active living team on the matter.

Now, the committee is pushing for the funds to be allocated in the upcoming budget for 2024-2025, listing Rail Trails Australia among the groups and organisations that have expressed support for the initiative.

“We missed out last year; It’s a tough budget situation this year, but we believe this is a very small amount of money compared to the

Sawing through the storm

In a gesture of gratitude and support for the tireless efforts of local emergency service volunteers, the Dandenong Ranges Community Bank Group has provided essential equipment to aid in their crucial work.

As a token of appreciation for their dedication during recent storm recovery efforts and ongoing service to the community, 14 brigades and the Emerald State Emergency Service (SES) have received STIHL Battery Powered Chainsaw Packs.

The generous donation, totalling just under $40,000, has equipped each brigade with a Stihl battery MSA 300 18-inch chainsaw, accompanied by two high-speed chargers and two batteries.

“We deeply value the commitment and sacrifices made by our volunteer Country Fire Authority (CFA) members and State Emergency Services (SES) members, particularly in times of crisis,” Dandenong Ranges Community Bank Group chair Deb Weber said.

“Their selfless contributions of time, energy, expertise, and community spirit are invaluable, especially during emergencies. The provision of this equipment is a small token of our immense gratitude.”

The rapid procurement and distribution of the chainsaw packs within a week of the recent storms underscores the dedication of the bank’s staff and directors to support the local community swiftly and effectively.

“We are immensely grateful for the swift response of the Dandenong Ranges Community Bank Group,” said a representative from one of the beneficiary brigades.

“This equipment will significantly enhance our capabilities to respond to emergencies and serve our community better.”

The Dandenong Ranges Community Bank Group remains committed to supporting the resilience and wellbeing of the local community and expresses its sincere appreciation to all emergency service volunteers for their unwavering dedication.

other budget issues, and just to get the feasibility study up and running so [the council] can be told what’s possible and what’s not possible, what route will work, what route won’t work,“ Mr Thomas said.

“We’re happy to go along whatever the findings are, but they’ve got to make that first step; find out what the problems are.

“We’ve also been working with Melbourne Water about the water treatment plant here that’s blocking this part; we’ve been talking to [Parks Victoria] about what we can do and can’t do through their trails.

“We’ve also been talking to the [state government] about how to cross this road and

how to cross Swansea Road, and we hope that’s going to be incorporated in a big plan for York Road.“

According to Parks Victoria, the body has not received a formal proposal for a Lilydale to Olinda bike path.

Parks Victoria said no consent or approval for the proposal has been granted, with any cycle trail using existing tracks in the Dandenong Ranges National Park needing approval from Parks Victoria and needing to align with the National Park Management Plan.

Yarra Ranges Council and MelbourneWater have been contacted for comment.

Emerald SES was one of the recipients of the battery powered chainsaws. Picture:

From left to right: Mark Dodemond, Ron Thomas, chairman of the Olinda Creek Trail Committee, Irene Moser, treasurer of the Whitehorse Active Transport Action Group and Michael Slattery, secretary of the Olinda Creek Trail Committee are backing a plan for a bike path from Lilydale to Olinda to boost tourism and safety for motorists and cyclists. 385240

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

IF YOU’RE HAVING A OR HOPPING ON A BUT WANT TO KEEP YOUR AND COMMUNITY SAFE…

Stable homes for in need

By Callum Ludwig

Stable One is set to realise a long-term goal in the near future with a new project to help quell homelessness in the Outer East.

Announced on 9 February, ‘The Village’ will provide 11 long-term rental homes in Bayswater North for people experiencing homelessness.

Stable One is partnering with the Emmaus Christian Community, Habitat for Humanity Victoria and Servants Community Housing to make a safe and stable home a reality for more people.

Woori Yallock resident and founder of Stable One Jenny Willetts OAM said it’s been a two-year journey to this point and they still have a long way to go.

“We’ve had a relationship with Servants, Habitat and Emmaus and we’ve all bought into this project to help build some homes, which is a vision that we’ve had since we began seven years ago, it’s been in the back of our minds as what we would love to do,” she said.

“We developed the model, based on a supportive housing model and we’re on our way, we are about to sign a long-term lease with Emmaus to lease the land from them,”

“We’re going to build 11 homes, six twobedroom and five one-bedroom homes, which will be long-term affordable rentals for those who are homeless or might be at risk of being homeless.”

As well as leasing the land net to the South Croydon Anglican Church for The Village, the Emmaus Christian Community will also be selling the land behind it to Habitat for Humanity Victoria to contribute to the fundraising effort, bringing the estimated $3 million cost down, though MsWilletts estimates about $2.5 million is still needed.

Ms Willetts said Habitat for Humanity will bring the house-building skills and Servants

Community Housing already has boarding houses in the Boroondara area.

“We’ve worked quite closely with them over the years when we’ve been running a winter shelter, a number of our guests at the shelter have ended up being accommodated in their boarding houses, which are unusually wellrun boarding houses with live-in managers, we know when people go there they go into a good environment,” she said.

“We’ve been able to provide a crisis response up until now but the hardest thing is always knowing that people have got no good options of places to go afterwards where they actually can feel safe and not just that, people need communities,”

“So many people that we meet don’t really have other people in their lives, it’s never been just about housing, our vision is for more than a place to stay, it’s not just building a bunch of houses and walking away, it’s about building

V Centre launches to empower veterans

After an extensive journey from inception to construction, The V Centre Veteran Empowerment Program celebrated its official opening on Wednesday 21 February.

Despite operating from Ivanhoe, the new support service is targeted to all ex-service personnel and with 2.2 per cent (2768) of the Yarra Ranges population having served, which is higher than the Victorian average, the centre is a first for providing targeted, personalised and thoughtful care.

Federal Jagajaga MP Kate Thwaites, a champion of the project, officiated the inauguration ceremony, marking a significant milestone in veteran support initiatives.

The V Centre Veteran Empowerment Program is a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to addressing veteran homelessness in Australia. Through the provision of safe housing and comprehensive support services, the program will empower veterans to lead fulfilling lives beyond their military service.

The Federal Government has played a significant role in the realisation of The V Centre Veteran Empowerment Program by contributing $1.2 million towards the project.

Vasey RSL Care remains committed to advocating for additional funding and has submitted a budget proposal for a $10.75 million co-contribution for the 2024-25 Federal budget. This allocation will complete the facility’s fit-out and sustain operational costs for the initial pilot period of three years of operation.

Kilsyth local and Vasey RSL Care board chair Mike O’Meara said this project adds to the already existing housing services, community connection and aged care supports offered through Vasey RSL Care, like the property in Croydon.

“Today is an important day. TheV Centre Veteran Empowerment Program is a major

L-R Federal Member for Jagajaga Kate Thwaites MP, Vasey RSL Care Board Chair

Mike O’Meara OAM, Victorian Veterans

MP Natalie Suleyman MP, Vasey RSL Care Chief Executive Officer Janna Voloshin, planting rosemary to commemorate the official opening of The V Centre - Veteran Empowerment Program. Picture: SUPPLIED

part of our strategy to address the changing needs of the veteran community. It will allow veterans to overcome their challenges to lead a life they value,” he said.

“We are calling on the Federal Government to partner with us on this vital initiative, which needs a collaborative approach.”

Vasey RSL Care chief executive officer Janna Voloshin highlighted the significance of the initiative.

“After extensive research, we know that this is the gap that needs to be filled – veterans are almost three times more likely to experience homelessness than the general public. This will support them where they need it the most,” she said.

Vasey RSL Care plans to continue their advocacy for this project in the lead up to the Federal Government’s May Budget.

houses and then building community for the people that live there.”

One of the 11 houses will be reserved for the ‘Placemakers’. Supported by Stable One, will live in the community and help transition new residents into their life in The Village.

Ms Willetts said the Placemakers are an integral part of the model, especially as residents may be transitioning from a difficult or dramatic life to a life lived well in The Village.

“This might mean helping them connect with other people in the community, it might mean referring them to local services or finding local services that will come and visit The Village and provide on-site services or might be helping them learn to be good neighbours,” she said.

“There might be some training activities that go on there, and there will be a community garden but it will just be about walking

alongside and supporting them to take responsibility for their neighbourhood and be good neighbours.”

As part of the plight to make the rentals affordable, the rent to live in The Village will remain at least 25 per cent below market value.

MsWilletts said for people who are insecure in their housing, it’s really hard for them to do anything else in their lives other than think about housing.

“They might need to grow in all sorts of ways but to think about getting skills to get a job or improve their life, it’s extremely difficult when you don’t know if you can stay where you’re living for the next week or month or year,” she said.

“Our goal with this village is the same as it was the winter shelters, we never set out in the beginning to do more than just run our local winter shelter, but that has developed into a network of other shelters across the country that’s growing all the time,”

“We’d love to see these little villages just cropping up all over the country next to churches on vacant land that they’ve never known quite what to do with.”

While a number of businesses and services have offered their services pro bono or at discounted rates to support The Village project, the fundraising effort has already begun.

The dedicated fundraising page where anyone can make a tax-deductible donation or start their own fundraising event can be found at village.stableone.org/.

Anyone interested in providing an interestfree or low-interest loan, has a connection with any foundations or philanthropists who might be interested, has skills to help the build they’d like to volunteer or would like to donate cans and bottles to Stable One that can raise money through the Container Deposit Scheme can contact Stable One at 0466 565 866 or info@ stableone.org.

An artist’s impression of ‘The Village’ which will be located at 203 Bayswater Road, Bayswater North. Picture: SUPPLIED

From trash to gold treasure

By Mikayla van Loon

From saving a few extra dollars to supporting the health of the environment, the state’s container deposit scheme has proved popular in the eastern suburbs.

Montrose News, Gifts and Lotto has seen a steady demand since providing the service in mid-December.

“Our bins are full every week and they’re emptied out twice a week. There’s a lot of people coming in. The demand is there. I thought after Christmas and New Year, it might peter off but it’s just constant,” co-owner Manny Sarellis said.

Witnessing the push by the younger generation, Manny said there’s “a lot of kids taking it on board”.

“They record everything, they’re separating everything so they’re doing a lot of the heavy lifting and the parents and grandparents are just encouraging them,” he said.

Six-year-old twins from Millgrove, Annabelle and William, are doing just that; collecting, sorting and recording hundreds of cans and bottles each week.

Mum Sarah Marshall said as soon as the option to deposit cans and bottles was made available, the twins started collecting.

“They sort it all out and half the time they count it all as well then we take it down to the chook farm at Yarra Junction (Little Yarra Free Range Eggs),” she said.

“They’ve managed to save up a fair amount of money from doing it. They average about $200 a month.”

Annabelle said mostly “we pick them up on the ground when we’re going for walks” as well as getting family and friends to collect them.

Learning about sustainability and recycling at school, William and Annabelle said they understand the importance of cleaning up but also it is helping them in other ways as well.

For William, he said it has improved his counting and money saving.

Using the first lot of money they ever made to buy themselves something, William bought a basketball, while Annabelle bought a squishy toy.

But ultimately, the twins are both saving for riding accessories for their ponies.

“They really enjoy it. When we go shopping we take some of their money. All their money gets put into a jar to go into their bank and they can see over the course of the month how much they’ve made and how it grows,” Sarah said.

“We take it down, put it in the bank and they’re allowed to spend half each. So say they make $10 that’d be $2.50 each they can spend.”

Sarah said the kids collect and sort every

week to make a deposit every fortnight.

On the other end for a drop off centre like the Montrose news agency, Manny said they too are seeing regular people bringing in hundreds of cans and bottles at a time.

“We have quite a few regulars that we’ve got from mums and dads, grandparents, young kids, to people who work in hospitality and they’re clearing all the bottles at the end of the day,” he said.

“People are falling into a rhythm now and they know what days we can cope with large amounts.

“Also [people are] being mindful of bringing in two tubs instead of bringing large amounts because some people just want to bring huge amounts to make it worthwhile, to get $40 to $50. We encourage them to bring it in a couple times and bring it regularly.”

Manny said while for some people it is a way of paying for a gas bill or groceries, for some it is a way of being able to provide for others.

“I’ve noticed a lot of people are starting to donate to charities as well. So Cancer Council, locally, the Montrose cupboard and the CFA… we’re seeing more and more of that now.

“We’ve got a couple of ladies that come in and they collect [for Montrose Community Cupboard] so they can provide programs to assist them in getting food to people that need it.”

Carrying on a legacy of sustainability and recycling instilled by Manny’s mother-in-law Georgia was the initial reason for signing up as a drop off point but now seeing the value and the benefit from the community, Manny said “the service is pretty popular”.

Have it serviced every two years to keep it safe from fire.

Since your home solar energy system is out there in the sun, wind and rain, it’s important to show it some love and keep it safe. Have it serviced now and every two years by a licensed electrician.

Learn more at esv.vic.gov.au/solar-safety

Six-year-old twins Annabelle and William love collecting and sorting the cans and bottles each week.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

Montrose News, Gifts and Lotto’s Manny and Georgia have been seeing hundreds of bottles and cans dropped off for cash since December.

390701 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Donors weather the storm and roll up their sleeves

By Tanya Steele

Community members still rolled up their sleeves despite a chaotic week to donate blood for Lifeblood at the pop-up clinic in Upwey over the 12 to 17 of February.

In 2023, more than 1,500 donations were made at the Upwey pop-up centre and community members are quite committed – donating regularly every three months when the clinic arrives at the Upwey community hall.

The storm and power outage on 13 February did not deter donors Armin or John from making their three monthly appointment, both appearing on Valentine’s Day to make their regular donations.

Donating somewhere on and off since the 1980’s, ex-scout leader John from Tecoma made his 100th donation and won’t be slowing down anytime yet.

He said he began donating when he worked at Nissan as an assembler and said that they would give employees time off to come and give blood.

“Everyone did it, they had it on site back then,” he said.

He has remained a stalwart donor for the Upwey pop up clinic, volunteering at the hall in the past.

“Before Covid hit I used to serve tea and coffee to people donating here – it’s only once every three months,” he said Armin from Monbulk said that other than going to a good cause, donation is also a great way to keep an eye on his health.

“It’s great stuff, a good health check,” he said.

Arnin began donating in the year 2000 when a friend from his football club with leukaemia told him to ‘do something’ useful’ when he asked him how he could help him at the time - he has now reached around 90 donations.

He comes regularly to the pop up clinic, four times a year and said he often meets people that he knows outside in the community

“I had no idea they were blood donors,” he said.

The two men are among many who regularly donate at the Upwey pop up clinic and contribute their time to a good cause.

One blood donation can save up to three lives and 33,000 blood and plasma donations are needed across Australia every week to meet demand.

One in three people in Australia will need blood or blood products in their lifetime, but only one in 30 donates.

Cancer patients, as a group, are the biggest recipients of blood and blood products in Australia. If you are between 18-75 years old and are feeling well, you may be able to donate. There is an eligibility quiz online at www.lifeblood.com.au/blood/eligibility/ start-quiz The next pop-up donor centre visit to Upwey is 20 to 24 May.

Lifeblood encourages donors to book ahead.

Location: Upwey Community Hall, 1443 Burwood Hwy.

Benefits despite slow start

By Mikayla van Loon

Cutting out the middleman to access treatment and medication for common health problems in participating pharmacies has seen a slow uptake in the Yarra Ranges.

The Community Pharmacist Pilot, a State Government initiative, launched late last year, allows people to seek treatment for urinary tract infections (UTI), refill an oral contraceptive pill prescription and receive travel or other vaccines in local pharmacies without having to see a GP.

From March, nearly 730 pharmacies will also offer treatment for mild psoriasis or shingles, the newest expansion of the pilot.

Healesville Walk Pharmacy, one of the participating pharmacies, has been providing these services for UTIs, contraceptives and vaccinations since the start of the year.

“We haven’t seen much of an uptake yet. The pilot itself started I believe it was late last year, but it didn’t roll out in this pharmacy until early this year,” pharmacist Mary said.

Pharmacist at Mt Evelyn Pharmacy Niemy said similarly the uptake and awareness of the program has been “a bit slow” since starting the pilot in December.

Niemy said at this stage Mt Evelyn can only offer the UTI treatment, with the other services to commence in the near future “once the

training is completed which will be soon”.

Both Mary and Niemy said for the most part it is women who are inquiring or accessing the services, particularly for UTI treatment.

“Sometimes they’re just desperate for something and we are now in a position where we can recommend antibiotics for certain people,” Mary said.

“It’s not something that a pharmacist can do for everyone. There’s very strict criteria but yeah, they usually come in straight up asking for antibiotics or just asking ‘what can I do to help with my UTI?”

The State Government figures have also shown that women are more likely to access these services, with 2000 women seeking care from a pharmacy out of the 3700 total Victorians.

Niemy said the benefits for people who are unable to get an appointment with a doctor but are in need of quick relief has been invaluable.

“One patient suffered severe UTI symptoms and was unable to access a doctor the same day. She was treated with antibiotics and was better soon after and didn’t need to see a GP at all.”

For Mary, seeing the impact across more regional areas where access to a GP may be limited has shown the need for this pilot program to continue.

“I work in two pharmacies. So I work in Healesville and Yea. I know in Yea it’s more of an issue where there’s just no services on weekends,” she said.

“So there’s no chance that people can get in to see a doctor, especially their regular doctor unless they’re going via the online route, which can have a long waiting time. So it’s definitely beneficial for people just to really get in and get started and get better.”

While still working through getting all the current available services set up, Niemy said expanding to offer the shingles treatment might be a possibility.

“There is room in the pharmacy to expand the services and we are reviewing whether to offer the shingles vaccination. [We’re] still deciding.”

The services provided by pharmacists are completely free to the patient with $20 million in funding from the government. Any prescriptions required will require payment from the patient just as those from a GP would be.

The pilot will run until October 2024 where it will then be evaluated, with long term recommendations put forward.

For more information on the Community Pharmacist Pilot or to locate a participating pharmacy in the Yarra Ranges, visit betterhealth.vic.gov.au/community-pharmacistpilot

John celebrated 100 donations with registered nurse Cici.

Pictures: TANYA STEELE

Armin after finishing his donation with registered nurse Sue - featuring the special bandage created by Beci Orpin to raise awareness about how blood donation can blood and plasma can help people living with cancer.

Accessing treatment at local pharmacies for things like UTIs means cutting out a visit to the GP. Picture: UNSPLASH

“I went for a job and was asked to stand up and turn around so he could decide…”

- Katherine Teh Advocate

Katherine Teh shares her experience of workplace gendered violence. To learn more about your rights at work, search WorkSafe Gendered Violence.

Gendered violence comes in many forms. All forms are OHS issues. All are unacceptable.

WorkSafe Gendered Violence

Rare plants a treasure

By Tanya Steele

Green thumbs can look forward to the 18th Annual Plant Collector’s Expo hosted by the Ferny Creek Horticultural Society over the weekend of March 9 and 10.

Salvias, rhododendrons, maples, perennials and more will be on display at the show in Sassafrass at 100 Hilton Road.

Member from the Ferny Creek Horticultural Society Emma Moysey said the expo is for gardening enthusiasts or anybody interested in gardening in the Yarra Ranges and beyond.

“Our rare plant Expo can attract all kinds of gardeners,” she said.

“There will be a huge range of plants available, including roses, daffodils, succulents, natives, deciduous trees, perennials, salvias, rhododendrons, camellias, alpine bulbs - and many many more. Gardeners can buy up ready to plant for autumn.”

“Our own propagation stall is well stocked with parts propagated from our garden and the member’s garden.”

Now in its 18th year, the expo will host a free speakers tent for the first time and the two day plant fair will host rare plants, trees and hard to find bulbs from a variety of vendors.

“There will also be a program of speakers throughout both of the days giving short talks on specific topics including rare bulbs, growing plants from seed, and regenerative horticulture,” Ms Moysey said.

Attendees can participate in free garden tours of the Ferny Creek property itself over the weekend, giving the community a chance to see the historic horticulture site up close.

“The garden has got plants that are 100 years old and they’re still healthy and maintained and weeded,” Ms Moysey said.

Ms Moysey said that the volunteer group meet twice a week and enjoys morning tea together after their gardening sessions.

“The garden provides people with a lot of opportunity to make great friends whilst they garden and get their exercise,” she said, “we have a strong community feel.”

The Ferny Creek Horticulture Society has been active for over 90 years and has its own 10 acre property, all funds from the expo go towards keeping the garden estate maintained.

“We always welcome new members, and currently have around 350 members” Ms Moysey said.

The Ferny Creek Horticultural Society holds three flower shows and a plant collector’s sale each year.

“Our propagation stall is well stocked with parts propagated from our garden and the member’s garden,” Ms Moysey said.

Local CFA, Scouts and school students will be at the expo running the parking and a sausage sizzle and Ms Moysey said the society like to work together and often with other community groups.

“We’re proud to have the event in such a beautiful setting,” she said.

18th Plant Collectors Expo

· March 9 and 10

· 10am to 4pm

· 100 Hilton Road Sassafras

· 10 dollar admission and kids under 14 free.

Free parking, buses welcome on arrangement

Details at: www.fchs.org.au/events/plantcollectors-sale-garden-expo/ or phone 03 8719 6924

The plant fair is in it’s 18th year and aims to keep growing and offering more to the public.

The expo offers community a chance to find some rare garden treasures. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Bowls community unites

By Mikayla van Loon

After a devastating email scam attack saw the UpweyTecoma Bowls Club lose $118,000 when replacing a green, the community was quick to step in and help.

Understanding the hardship of needing to repair or replace a green, Mooroolbark Bowls Club recently held a fundraising day to support their local rivals and counterparts in the recovery.

With members raising a total of $528, the board of directors agreed to match the amount raised, allowing the club to present a cheque of $1058 to Upwey Tecoma in January.

Mooroolbark club president Neville Roper said the idea stemmed from tournament manager Jackie MacKay after she had been speaking with members of Upwey Tecoma during regular play.

“As much as we’re all competitors, we’re all in the same situation, trying to get members and keep our clubs going for the community,” he said.

“It’s just helping someone out in that situation because at any stage, it can happen to any of us and we’d like to think someone would be able to help us if we were in that situation as well.”

Upwey Tecoma club secretary Les Lane said receiving the donation almost a year on was wonderful to know people still care and want to help.

“Every little bit helps, as you could appreciate. So we’re grateful for any donations that come in, especially from the bowling fraternity and we’ve had a fairly good response from the bowling fraternity to be quite honest with you,” he said.

With Monbulk, Lilydale and Knox, as well as the Community Bank and other clubs, each giving what they could to get Upwey Tecoma back on their feet, Les said the club would have

nearly half of the lost amount back.

“We won’t recoup it, there’s no doubt about that. It would take us a month of Sundays to recoup $120,000 because we’re only a very small club,” he said.

“We don’t have poker machines. So we rely on people coming along to the club and play-

ing, barefoot bowls, and Jack attack, and hiring the facility from us.

“But the community has been quite good. I mean, to say a lot of people have come to Jack attack and said ‘we’re here because of what happened’. So that’s been encouraging.”

Although not to the same extent, on 25

October 2022, Mooroolbark Bowls Club also experienced flooding of one of its greens, something Neville said “we’re going to have to replace ourselves”.

“We’ve repaired it as much as we can ourselves, but we’ll have to replace that eventually,” he said.

“Upwey Tecoma only has two greens, whereas we’ve got three so we can get by. It’s all fundraising as well, club’s have barefoot bowls and all those sorts of things for extra revenue, so they were struggling with that as well. Having one green not playable makes it very hard.”

While Upwey Tecoma is back up and running, competing and hosting events, the reality of needing to replace the second green is approaching.

“We’ve got about eight years until we have to replace the back green, and that’s going to cost us I would think at current prices about $220,000.

“So we would have been on target had this not happened. But now that it’s happened, we’re probably four or five years behind.”

While donations have slowed, Les said the best thing to do for not only Upwey Tecoma but for all community clubs, is to support barefoot bowls or venue hire.

Keeping that community spirit and support at the heart of bowling clubs across the region, Neville said, is an important part of what they’re established to do.

“All bowls clubs are really community based. We’ve got a few younger people and young players, but the majority would be over 60 and probably 85 per cent of our members are over 70, like most clubs.

“It’s a social outlet for a lot of those types of people in the community. And also different community groups use the clubs for different reasons, for charity days, or fundraising days, and that sort of thing. So we are part of the community.”

Hill

Wednesday 13 March 10:30am-12pm 15 Fulham Road, Rowville

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L-R Mooroolbark president Neville Roper, executive director Les Hunter. From Upwey Tecoma secretary Les Lane, committee member Jackie Bramwell, and from Mooroolbark Jackie MacKay, Tournament Manager at the cheque presentation in January. Picture: SUPPLIED

It

takes two and a village to raise multiple families

By Mikayla van Loon

Finding support as a parent is critical to everyone’s wellbeing but even more so for those who bring multiples into the world, being twins, triplets or more.

That’s why the Eastern Area Multiple Birth Association (EAMBA) exists, to offer guidance, friendship, support and advice to parents who have multiples or are about to have multiples in Maroondah,Yarra Ranges, Knox, Whitehorse and Manningham.

EAMBA president Sarah Lavis said when she found out she was having twins, she didn’t believe it could be any different to raising a single child.

“I’ve got two step children so I’ve raised children and I was like, it can’t be that different,” she said.

“It is a different ballgame. I found that quite quickly myself when I was trying to go to mother’s group and I was the only one with twins and the group would choose cafes that weren’t double pram friendly and didn’t understand it’s very hard for me to do things like taking my kids to swimming lessons because I can’t do it on my own.”

Looking to connect with more parents experiencing the same and finding it hard to relate to singleton parents, that’s when Ms Lavis joined EAMBA.

Whether it’s providing resources, handme-down equipment, answering questions on the community forum page or joining the playgroup, EAMBA tries to assist multiple birth families in any way they can.

Ms Lavis said the lovely part of running the playgroups in Mooroolbark and Bayswater is children can make friends, grow together and parents get to communicate in a safe space.

“Playgroups are usually for children who are not in school because they run on a Wednesday and a Friday during the term and they’re 100 per cent volunteer led,” Ms Lavis said.

“It’s a really beautiful opportunity, you can have eight or 10 toddlers running around and a lot of mums and dads bonding over their experience, which is really, really beautiful.”

Creating a community that “normalises the experience of raising multiples”, Ms Lavis said is key to what EAMBA does.

Part of fostering that connection is the ability to put on broader events and family days so parents and children can mingle.

For the most part, EAMBA tries to use either acquired grant funding or funds it has raised to host subsidised events, like going to Chesterfield Farm or the cinemas.

But Ms Lavis said funds also go towards the running of the group’s other functionalities and to support parents in crisis, who may need prepackaged meals provided.

Gaining the support of Grill’d Croydon, every $25 meal deal purchased on Thursday 29 February between 5pm and 8pm will see

$10 go to EAMBA to help fund these initiatives.

“If you had 10 people come well, that’s $100 and that’s about the cost to run one facilitated playgroup and these things start to add up. So for us, it’s how we engage with the general public and rally support for what we do,” she said.

“It’s everything from how do we keep our playgroups running? How do we support families going through the NICU journey? How do we keep our school aged families engaged and allow even the entire group to be able to experience things that might be quite expensive when you’ve got multiples?”

Because Ms Lavis said support for parents

caters towards singletons, it can often be a hard system to navigate so by raising awareness of the challenges and the disparities of raising multiples is also essential to gaining more widespread support.

“Multiples really only equate for a small percentage (two to three per cent) of births and so the general public doesn’t necessarily understand that there are differences.

“There’s also double the sleep deprivation, it is more expensive.There are so many factors that lead to that anxiety.

“Twins are cute and they’re magical, and they’re amazing and people are just fascinated by them but behind the scenes there is a lot of anxiety. There is a lot of depression, there’s a

lot of things that probably aren’t talked about.”

One of those being the equal parental leave payments that multiples and singleton parents get.

“And twins, according to Centrelink, aren’t considered a multiple birth.There’s a lot of assumptions that get made that multiple birth families are well supported but unfortunately, it’s not the case,” Ms Lavis said.

“I feel very, very blessed to have my girls but there’s so much work to be done. Not only to normalise the multiple births experience but also to have those supports in place.”

More information about EAMBA can be found at eamba.amba.org.au

Grants give equality boost

Grants have been awarded to two outer eastern organisations to help them in supporting and empowering women.

Homelessness and foster care service Anchor received $10,000, while autism awareness and support not-for-profit Different Journeys was awarded $5000 in the investing in women grassroots program by the State Government. The funding program aims to improve gender stereotypes and health and wellbeing, while creating respect and better economic outcomes for women.

Anchor will use the grant for its Heart Through Art Project aiming to “support creative expression and foster a sense of safety and connection” for those overcoming homelessness.

“ Female and non-binary artists will conduct workshops exploring the impact of gender stereotypes and envisioning future communities,” the project outline states.

“The project includes workshops on Wurundjeri culture, creative art therapy sessions facilitated by a female identifying arts thera-

nosis or accessing support.

“Diagnosis of autism in women is often late in life, resulting in systemic, life-long disadvantages to autistic women in employment, education, their personal and social lives. Many women fill caring roles, which impacts their ability to pursue their own goals and needs,” the proposal reads.

“These barriers also prevent women from engaging with Different Journeys’ existing services, which are often male or child-dominated spaces due to the prevalence of male and child diagnosis compared to women.”

disabled, carers, LGBTQIA+, Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander or culturally diverse.”

The project will look at gender, respect, women’s rights, leadership and confidence through the hosting of two to three events throughout the year, planned and evaluated by these women.

pist, and photography sessions documenting gendered experiences.”

A community exhibition will be held at the conclusion of the project to showcase the work of the participants and invite broader interaction and discussion.

Different Journeys aim to fill a gap for women, girls and gender-diverse people who often face more barriers in receiving an autism diag-

Looking to change that, Different Journeys will look to “open the door” for women to “provide holistic empowerment and accessibility” led by them to alter the perception that they can’t do something or are unable to join spaces.

“[The focus will be on] women’s needs, wishes and leadership to design, carry out and evaluate our women’s events.

“We will create a women’s group for the project, focusing on women who are autistic or

“We hope to provide a new way for autistic women who are not carers to enter the Different Journeys community as they first begin to explore their diagnosis, which will allow us to support them throughout their lives and their individual journeys.”

Minister for women Natalie Hutchins said these community organisations are an important part of advancing gender equality.

“We’re making in-roads towards a better future for all women, and recognise grassroots programs have a vital role to play in leading communities towards a more equal Victoria,” she said.

Sarah, Ellen and Kathryn with their twins at playgroup.

EAMBA tries to host fun, low cost family days for like this one at Ninja Nation.

EAMBA has created a community of multiples, for both the children and parents.

Sarah Lavis found support from EAMBA after giving birth to her twin girls. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Anchor and Different Journeys will support women through creative expression and event hosting after receiving grants. Picture: UNSPLASH

Vale ‘determined’ Jetti

Silvan resident and community member Jeanette Furmedge has been recognised as “determined” and having a “full life” after her passing on Wednesday 14 February.

Cub leader and past president of social enterprise Knoxbrooke, Jeanette or ‘Jetti,’ was honoured in a service at her beloved home on Friday 23 February.

In a statement published on the Knoxbrooke website, board and staff, past and present said the organisation was “privileged to have had the support of Jeanette for well over 40 years”.

“Jeanette first encountered Knoxbrooke when she enrolled her daughter, Kathryn at age 2, into what was then the only local special school in the area,” the statement read.

“Not one to stand on the side lines, Jeanette quickly became involved with Knoxbrooke in many ways over the years including as volunteer, staff member, manager, Director and even President of Knoxbrooke (1989-1990).”

During her association with Knoxbrooke, Jeanette oversaw the mothers club, the making of the worm farm called ‘Wrigglers Delight,’ the pot washing business, the cleaning business, the creation of Knoxbrooke Industries and the start of the Adult Training and Support Service, the statement said.

“Jeanette was also instrumental in sorting and compiling Knoxbrooke’s history for the 50th anniversary book, which was a huge project!

“The creation of what is today Yarra View & Bushland Flora Nurseries was also overseen by Jeanette and humbly started its life on unused land on Burwood Highway, growing fuchsias for the farmers market on weekends.

“Jeannette was a part of moving the nursery to The Patch and then ultimately to York Road. The purchase of Bushland Flora had the support of Jeanette as Director.”

Jeanette’s granddaughter, Jordyn, spoke on behalf of her brother Riley and cousins Tiger and Cash.

Jordyn said her nanna was a “classic arts and crafts” grandmother.

“She always encouraged creativity,” Jordyn said.

“She was always singing, always chuckling, and we were constantly in the kitchen cooking something yummy.

“There was never a dull moment...I remember my favourite thing to do was to walk with Nanna and Grumpie through the magical fairy garden out the front, searching for cool creatures and avoiding the make believe trolls un-

Pictures: SUPPLIED

der the bridge, not to mention the hours and hours and hours and hours of bouncing and giggling on the trampoline over there.”

Jordyn said her grandmother was “kind, compassionate and full of love”.

“I feel so blessed to have grown up with such a strong extraordinary woman by our side - I look up to my Nanna in so many ways as I start navigating my own journey through my 20s,” she siad.

“She embraced life fully doing all the things she really really loved in life....and she continued to pursue her passions which has inspired me to do the same.

“She was always a leader and will continue to be one in my heart.”

In the statement from Knoxbrooke’s board and staff said Jeanette was “always a proponent of progress” and supported new initiatives when they brought about positive change for people with a disability.

“Jeanette was a mainstay Board member from 1986 until 2021 when she retired from the

Board.

“It is safe to say there is not much at Knoxbrooke that does not have Jeanette’s DNA on it. Throughout all this time, Jeanette was always generous, warm and positive, guiding and assisting others to do their best, in whatever endeavour they may be pursuing. What distinguished Jeanette was her willingness to take action where it mattered and be brave in doing so.

“Knoxbrooke would not be what it is today without Jeanette which is why we admire her so. It is due to Jeanette’s long association with Knoxbrooke and a desire to recognise Jeanette that the Board created the perpetual Jeanette Furmedge Community Award in 2022. We are pleased that Jeanette’s contribution to Knoxbrooke will continue to be honoured through this Award.”

Born on 4 November 1940 in South Australia, Jeanette grew up in the Camberwell/Canterbury raised by adoptive parents Keith and Grace.

It was not until her 40s that Jeanette discov-

ered she was adopted - and discovered a new family of four sisters and a brother and an extended family of nephews and nieces.

After meeting husband Peter at a party, the pair married on 2 April 1966 and would go on to have children Scotty, Cameron, Kathryn and Anita.

After meeting Peter, Jeanette went to London for work and travel, and despite the potential of staying to study at the Royal College of Music in London, she turned down a scholarship to return home and marry her love.

Jeanette was involved in Cubs and Scouts for 50 years, and was Akela for Monbulk Cub Pack for over 30 years.

She went back to study sports massage and healing at the age of 50; starting her own massage business from home.

She was also involved in choir, known for her voice.

Jeanette is survived by husband Peter, children Cameron, Kathryn and Anita and grandchildren Jordyn, Riley, Tiger and Cash.

Sassafras mourns a matriarch as Gwen dies, aged 92

The community of Sassafras and surrounds is mourning the death of a much-loved matriarch, Gwen Horner, who died recently aged 92.

Gwen was a life member of both the Sassafras-Ferny Creek Fire Brigade and the Ferny Creek Tennis Club.

Born Gwennyth Helen Dyer in December 1931, she moved with her family to Tremont, where her father was a flower grower on the steep slopes off Titania Crescent. She met Bob Horner at a dance in Olinda in 1950. The couple were married at the Sassafras Methodist Church in 1954 and so began a lifetime’s association with the local CFA brigade which Bob had joined in the same year.

Gwen was widely known in the community through her involvement with several organisations, but most notably the tennis club of which she was made a life member in 1981. Nimble on the court, Gwen played competitive tennis well into her senior years. She was also a diligent member of the local branches of the CWA and the Red Cross and was an active parishioner of the Kennon Memorial Church in Clarkmont Road.

Gwen had a fascination with local history and, along with Bob, was involved in the Mount Dandenong Historical Society. She kept scrapbooks recording local goings on and keenly followed the careers of the many young people she encountered.

Of course, central to her world was her own family including four children, eight

grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Gwen and Bob would spend seven decades together until his death last August.

The 1950s was a very different era when it came to the involvement of women in the local fire brigade. (Full membership of the CFA for women would not come until the 1970s). At first it was quite informal. Gwen was among a group of local women, including who supported the brigade through catering or donations of food.

In June 1965, a “Ladies Auxiliary” was formed under the leadership of Jean Allen and Gwen was among the first to join. According to the brigade minutes of the day, the auxiliary could only be activated on the command of the brigade Captain or officer in charge of a fire. Still, it was a long way from the days when then Captain Keith Hughson would carry his own flask of water and, if it looked like being a long fire, a tin of fruit!

Gwen became a stalwart of the auxiliary, turning out to assist with catering at major and not-so-major fires, assisting with the catering for countless brigade functions, holding office within the auxiliary itself, acting as a co-ordinator, a delegate to brigade meetings and to the Dandenong Ranges Feeding Group.

Gwen was made a life member of the brigade in 2010 in acknowledgement of her service to the auxiliary. In 2022, CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan presented her with a medal marking 30 years of registered service.

Jeanette Furmedge was known for her work in the community.

Jeanette and Peter with their alpacas.

Jeanette,as Akela,presenting one of her cubs with his hat.

Gwen Horner.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Classic cars take centre stage at Gembrook Reserve

By Emma Xerri

Gembrook’s finest cars took to the Gembrook Recreation Reserve on Sunday 18 February for this year’s All American Car Display.

Hosted by the Rotary Club of Emerald and District, in conjunction with The Thunderbirds Club & Custom Rod Inc., the event was Gembrook’s first in years, after Covid and relocations stopped the event from running normally.

The day featured 218 cars in their shiniest form, each vying for one of the day’s five awards, as sponsored by the event’s sponsors, who each picked out their particular class of car, including best commercial car, best custom car, best hotrod and best Australian car.

And while a fierce storm tried to disrupt the event yet again, all it took was a few

porta potties to ensure this year’s event ran smoothly.

“It did worry us, especially after the event when communication on the mountain was almost impossible because no one had reception,” Gembrook Rotary’s Greg Adams said.

“But everything was great, and the weather was terrific in the end.

“The Rotary Club’s manpower was also incredible.

“From my point of view as the organiser, if I wanted anything, the guys would step in in a heartbeat.

“We’re all volunteers, but it’s just amazing. If a barbecue stops working, 10 minutes later there’s another one.

“So, thank you to the community for your support. It was a great day, and we will be back next year.”

Oldest platypus lives here

By Tyler Wright

Tagged 01F6-03FF, the 24-year-old male was found in April 2023 - and later in September - as part of the Urban Platypus Program (MWUPP), in association with Ecology Australia and Cesar.

The record title for the oldest platypus in the wild was given to a 21-year-old female found in the upper Shoalhaven River in New SouthWales, according to a study published in Australian Mammology.

Ecology Australia zoologist Gemma Snowball said when she and the team captured the “old boy,” they were not yet aware of his age.

“It was a bit like business as usual that night and we recorded a number, took its usual measurements and weighed it and then released it back at the capture site into the creek,” Ms Snowball said.

“It wasn’t until a few days later when checking the data and chatting to some other biologists that we realised how old that one was, and I was very excited when we did find out.”

Researchers found 10 other captive individuals have lived to an age of more than 20 years in recent decades, including a 30-year-old female at Healesville Sanctuary.

The species is listed as vulnerable in Victoria and endangered in South Australia.

Ms Snowball said more research is needed into the longevity of the platypus, although there is a hypothesis on why the webbed-footed monotreme survived for so long in the wild.

“The population in Monbulk Creek isn’t huge; they’ve got a steady population, we think it’s a steady population, but not a huge population, so the sex ratio between males and females from the monitoring that has been done in Monbulk Creek is quite equal,” she said.

“At any time a male is probably defending one max two females, which means there’s just a bit less mating effort required for that, and in other mammal species we’ve seen that mating effort can be a driver for mortality in wild animals due to aggressive interactions, reduced foraging effort; sometimes the mating effort and competitiveness between males can cause altered activity, so maybe they would leave the water a bit more, which may make them at more risk for preditation.

“The other thing is the Monbulk Creek is fairly narrow, so it’s about one to four metres wide at any point along the stretch of the creek, and that narrowness may contribute to it being a bit easier for males to defend females.”

Ms Snowball said males in the Shoalhaven River do not often live after the age of seven, with a denser platypus population in comparison to the 12 to 29 detected in Monbulk Creek between 1997 and 2007.

“[There’s] definitely more research needed in that area,” she said.

The male was first tagged at one year old in November 2000, surviving “frequent flood events” and avoiding predators like cats, dogs and foxes as well as dodging litter entanglement and surviving the millennium drought during the 2000s, according to Senior Asset Manager for Service Enablement Catchments Waterways at Melbourne Water Al Danger.

“It’s been very exciting to discover our re-

cord-breaking platypus; his age has far exceeded our expectations for life expectancy. His condition was excellent for his age,” Dr Danger, who runs the MWUPP and co-authored the study paper, said.

“There was no noticeable indication he was so old, just some wear and tear on his spurs.”

Southern Dandenongs Landcare Group committee member Eliza Lamb said the group is part of Environmental DNA (eDNA) platypus surveys.

“[Finding the male platypus], it’s really good news and I think it’s a testament to the work that’s happening in our region,” Ms Lamb said.

“Melbourne Water are doing a lot of work along the Monbulk Creek and other creeks in the ranges…we have the Friends of Belgrave Lake Park who work along in the Belgrave Lake Park they’re enhancing the stream side vegetation in that area. area and that’s really important because it’s trying to slow water flow.

“Stormwater runoff is a real problem for platypus; It’s got all that sediment and chemicals coming off impervious surfaces like roads and rooftops; the work that’s being done by the friends group and organisations like MelbourneWater is to slow that flow, let sediments percolate into the soil rather than going directly into the creeks which is only going to help the platypus because they’re really affected by contaminants and it also really affects the availability of their food source, their primary food source which is macroinvertebrates.”

While Melbourne Water conducts surveys using specialised nets to help catch the platypus with the goal of tracking their health over time, locals can also play a role in providing researchers with useful information through participating in a platypus spotting sessions.

It helps build knowledge of local platypus populations and guide conservation management efforts.

To learn more, visit platypusSPOT.org

Rotary members Vicki Van Den Bergen, Shalini Penny, Carol Cain and John Henderson welcoming one of the entries.

Picture: GARY SISSONS

The oldest platypus found in the wild has been detected in Monbulk Creek, marking a new record for the monotremes.

Biologists are surprised by the detection of a 24-year-old male platypus found in Monbulk Creek last year. It is the oldest platypus detected in the wild.

Picture: ECOLOGY AUSTRALIA

The platypus’s age was not noticeable to biologists when he was first found.

Picture: ALICE EWING, ECOLOGY AUSTRALIA

The platypus population of Monbulk Creek is isolated from other waterways.

Picture: ECOLOGY AUSTRALIA

Belgrave and Tecoma township meeting approaches

Belgrave and Tecoma communities interested in bringing expertise or gaining experience in a new committee and meeting new people are invited to the annual general meeting for the Belgrave and Tecoma township group.

On Thursday 7 March at 7.30pm at the Belgrave Library, residents interested in having input into their community are invited to the meeting to be part of the independent local organisation.

Yarra Ranges Councillor Johanna Skelton of LysterWard said that Belgrave and Tecoma are amazing communities that benefit from the work of creative, generous people who have focused on local history, arts, environment, community wellbeing and so much more.

“The library, community garden, Tecoma Twilight and Belgrave’s Big Dreams Markets are a big part of what makes these towns

wonderful to live in. I am sure there are many other ideas for improvement out there,” she said.

Township groups are independent community organisations created by and for the community.

Groups will often advocate for local issues, provide a forum for sharing information, lead and support community projects as well as applying for grants for events and projects.

“There is a role in the Township group for people to bring knowledge and skills in many areas such as fundraising, landscaping and urban design, community development and event planning,” Cr Skelton said.

“Township groups shape towns in really important short and long term ways, whilst also creating friendships and connections for members in the process,” she said.

In the Hills region, there are existingTown-

ship groups in Upwey, Kallista & Kalorama with other groups further afield in Montrose, Kilsyth, Lilydale, Mt Evelyn and throughout the Yarra Valley.

Each group chooses their area of focus which may include emergency planning, festivals and events, advocacy, markets and much more.

The group is an incorporated association with an elected committee empowered to make decisions and provide leadership in the area.

Yarra Ranges Council provides insurance, mentoring and a quarterly network where Townships can share ideas and gain funding.

This will be an exciting year for Belgrave and Tecoma with events for the centenary of Tecoma as well as the amazing festivals, events and gatherings in the area.

The new committee will be integral to great things happening in the area as well as

having a voice in the Belgrave and Tecoma townships.

I’m looking forward to meeting them at the upcoming Annual General Meeting,” Cr Skelton said.

Belgrave and Tecoma joined together to form a township group some time ago and the existing committee are stepping back.

This is enabling a renewal with new leadership, new projects and new direction.

Community interesting n bringing their expertise or gaining experience in a new committee, to meet new people and have input to their community are invited to come along to the AGM in March.

The Belgrave Tecoma Township Group AGM will be held on Thursday 7 March at 6.30pm at the Belgrave Library, Reynolds Lane in Belgrave.

To RSVP or get more information, email bttginc@gmail.com

‘Freedom fighters’ sought

By Callum Ludwig

Just over a year has passed since My Place Yarra Valley (MPYV) made headlines by attending Yarra Ranges Council meetings in large numbers to object to the ‘20-minute neighbourhoods’ planning concept and share their fears of increased surveillance.

The group remains active, holding fortnightly meetings, including guest speakers, and notably welcomed Monica Smit, founder and director of the Reignite Democracy Australia freedom movement on Thursday 22 February.

Founder of MPYV Belinda Modesti said the potential of a visit from Ms Smit was put forward by a member of the group who was interested in what she has to say.

“We’re not about censoring people or putting my personal views ahead of the requests of others in the community, there are some people in the community who question her, perhaps her ethics or her morals, in terms of funds and things like that, but we just want to hear what she has to say and make our own decisions about whether we want to support her or not moving forward,” she said.

“I’m personally actually interested in hearing her out, I’m not a follower of her, as some other people are, but I’m interested in forming my own thoughts about her once she comes and gives her talk.”

Ms Smit is currently conducting a national tour, making unpaid visits to community groups who book her. Ms Smit rose to prominence after founding Reignite Democracy Australia in 2020 and being held in custody for 22 days, refusing bail conditions after being accused of inciting others to breach public health orders and attend anti-lockdown protests, of which those charges were later dropped. She also wrote a book, ‘Cell 22’, detailing her experience.

Ms Smit said as it reads on her mission statement, that her mission is for attendees to leave the event feeling more connected, empowered and inspired for whatever comes next.

“I will talk about the lessons I learnt on the front line of Victoria’s pushback movement, what I think we should be focusing on now, and my experience meeting our European freedom family,” she said.

“Afterwards, I’d love to hug and connect with as many freedom lovers as possible. I will have copies of ‘Cell 22’ with me for signing and discussion.”

Not all MPYV members are welcoming of Ms Smit’s appearance, sharing their displeasure in the comments of a post in the group’s private Facebook group. Ms Smit also returned to headlines in late 2023 after appearing at a hearing where Consumer Affairs Victoria alleged that she and Reignite Democracy Australia had failed to register the organisation when conducting a fundraiser between September 2021 and October 2022 that raised more than $86,000 to fund her legal defence against separate criminal charges. Ms Smit is slated for another court date on 29 April 2024, blocking out her tour calendar for almost two weeks

prior. The offence carries maximum penalty of $46,000 for a company and more than $23,000 and 12 months jail for individuals if proven.

Ms Smit said she was not concerned at all that her tour would impact on the impending trial.

“Their case is weak and a complete waste of time. I have nothing to hide, and plenty of support, so these types of things don’t concern me in the slightest. In fact, I look forward to my day in [sic] court with them,” she said.

“I don’t see why they (My Place Yarra Valley members) would be concerned about that. Isn’t Australia meant to work on the basis of innocent until proven guilty? It’s their choice whether to come to one of my events or not,”

“If they don’t like me for whatever reason, they wouldn’t come to the event I guess. Pretty simple.”

Other figures set to appear at MPYV meetings include former professional cage fighter and anti-lockdown protester Nick Patterson and‘Passion Provocateur’, motivational speaker, former tax lawyer and president of the Australian Industrial Hemp Alliance Charles Kovess, who has also previously shared antilockdown sentiments.

Ms Modesti said it’s about time people stop making assumptions and start having conversations and being open and transparent.

“We are demeaned as being some rightwing conspiracy group, which couldn’t be further from the truth,” she said.

“I’ve made it very clear that if people do want speakers and they are asking for a monetary sum upfront or anything like that, that that’s not something that I, on behalf of the My Place community, would be able to agree to.”

Given the controversial nature of Ms Smit’s appearance and the police intervention at council meetings attended by MPYV in 2023, the Star Mail asked if there would be a security presence at the meeting. Ms Modesti confirmed that there will be no official security, but there are MPYV members with crowd management experience and they won’t hesitate to shut down the meeting if trouble arises.

Ms Modesti said MPYV has been focusing on sustainability practices in recent times, as well as having a continued interest in their surveillance fears and bureaucracy concerns.

“Being more self-reliant is something we’ve pushed from the very beginning, that people need to start to be reliant on themselves and

their communities, so we’ve been reaching out to people to gain the knowledge that enables that self-sufficiency,” she said.

“We do have some other people who are looking into the increase in CCTV, we have a person who’s ex-military who’s very knowledgeable on this and is looking at the necessity of technology versus a more sinister use which may be an element of future control,”

“There’s still a lot of council interest, making sure councils are accountable to the residents, primarily from asking questions at and attending council meetings as a collective to make sure they know there is a community group that won’t sit there and allow them to push through decisions.”

Information about the upcoming council elections this year and the new mandatory training for local government candidates has also recently been shared on the group’s Facebook page. When asked if MPYV would be running any candidates in the elections, Ms Modesti confirmed that no members have put their hand up at this stage but that the different perspective they could potentially bring to the council would be ‘invaluable’.

Monica Smit speaking in front of a group in Benalla.

Picture: SUPPLIED

A wheely worthy cause

By Gabriella Vukman

On Friday 16 February, Ferntree Gully North Primary School embarked on their Wheelathon day journey.

Run through rotary and in conjunction with Wheelchairs for Kids, students participated in wheelchair sports in an effort to raise awareness around wheelchair accessibility.

The school has also been running a fundraiser and has raised just under five thousand dollars so far.

Head of Junior School Council and Grade 5/6 teacher Claire Keltie said, “I was hoping to raise enough money for four wheelchairs across the school, but historically our school doesn’t tend to raise large amounts so I was a little bit unsure as to how well it would go over.”

“For a school of just under 300 kids, raising just under five thousand dollars is amazing,” Ms Keltie said.

“We’ve had several families donate a wheelchair per child and it costs $275 to build one wheelchair.”

Wheelchairs for Kids is a Perth-based, non-for-profit organization that builds wheelchairs for children in need.

“Wheelchairs for Kids started with a group of retirees getting together and wanting to build things with their hands,” Ms Keltie said.

“These retiree volunteers build parts of the wheelchair which are assembled at their destination and each wheelchair is all terrain and grows with each child.

“There are eighty different countries Wheelchairs for Kids have donated to.”

Wheelchairs for Kids representatives and rotary helpers came in loaded with two trailers worth of wheelchairs and set up an obstacle course for the children to navigate.

The event was open to parents and

students alike.

“Events like this aid the community because they bring us together and give us a common purpose to work towards,” Ms Keltie said.

“When this came across my desk, I thought, what a wonderful opportunity to reach beyond our local community and expose kids to other children who are just like them but miles away.”

Ms Keltie said, “I’m very humbled and amazed with how well our children have jumped on board with this charity.”

Donations are still welcome and can be made via the school website at https://www. ferntree.vic.edu.au/

Ferntree Gully North Primary school are raising money for wheelchairs for kids.

Pictures: CLARE KELTIE

So far the school has raised just under $4000.

Patch history comes alive

By Tyler Wright

Local author Peter Hayne’s debut novel is giving readers a glimpse into life in the 1890s.

A Journey to The Patch is based around Hayne’s grandfather, Joseph, who was one of the original settlers in the town.

“[In the] 1890s he had a block which is now mainly covering The Patch Primary School, so next door to The Patch Store, and he lived the rest of his life there,” Hayne said.

“He came out from Norfolk in the UK when he was 21, had a few issues at home which are in the book, but he was a young man who just needed to get out; it was the start of the agricultural revolution in England.”

Brought by the Colony of Queensland to work on a cane farm in Mackay, in the state’s north for 12 months, Hayne covers his grandfather’s journey down toVictoria, where he would settle in the Dandenong Ranges.

“While he wasn’t a person a child that went to school for any length of time he was very well educated and very well read,” Hayne said.

“I have a a copy of the letter that he sent home in 1899,” Hayne said, “It’s a beautiful letter, it’s 32 pages of what happened on the journey in his own handwriting, and it’s just beautifully written and it’s neat; it’s just a really good read on its own.

“I’ve been able to expand that from 32 pages to 300 [in my book]...we’re right at the start of the time when the Suez Canal was opened, he talks about things in that letter that were historically important but to him they were just new things and were in the days in Mackay before the white Australia policy was introduced in 1901, so the use of Islander Labor was a very strong issue at the time in Queensland, which I

think sort of turned into to come down to Melbourne.

A book two and a half decades in the making, Hayne dug into the National Library of Australia’s Trove collection and The Argus from the 1890s, when the “catastrophic” depression, worse than the 1931 Great Depression, was battering Melbourne.

“We’d been through a Melbourne boom, and part of the Melbourne boom was extracting timber to build houses, and the timber was coming from right where I’m living in The

Patch,” Hayne said.

“They were dragging logs out to Lilydale and building houses in the city. And then suddenly in 1893, we have this international depression. of capital from overseas just stopped on a day and banks started collapsing so a lot of things that had been programmed to happen in Melbourne just didn’t happen and people were out of work and of course once they’re out of work then the banks were selling up the houses because the mortgages weren’t being paid but there was nobody to buy them because there was no international capital so the values of

houses started the plummet mortgages weren’t being repaid and banks started to collapse.

“In the early 1890s in Melbourne there were numerous bank collapses and it was just chaos in Melbourne and what they finished up doing was they subdivided forest land in the Dandenongs which we now that was Monbulk, Olinda, Belgrave, Kallista, The Patch all of those areas were subdivided and the boot makers and candlestick makers and bakers and butchers and all sorts of people who were out of work were put onto these land 10-acre blocks in The Patch and Monbulk and expected to farm and make a living.”

A photograph included in the book, taken over the top of his grandfather’s farm in 1900, shows three growing market gardens in working order; the Hayne farm, McAllister and Clarkson farms.

“Other farmers or the other settlers found it a very very difficult thing to do - the guys who could farm went ahead with it and they survived so those three families that I’ve mentioned were synonymous with the patch for the next 20 or 30 years.”

The response to the novel from his family has been “fantastic,” Hayne said, as has the response from people in The Patch to the book’s title.

“I was always going to call it ‘going home,’ that was the working title of the book, but I was convinced that we had to putThe Patch into it,” he said.

“It was quite a good idea;It’s quite an attractive title, it attracts people to it. ‘Going home’ would have done the same thing.”

A Journey to The Patch can be purchased at The Patch Store, at 16 The Patch Road in The Patch

Assange film at Cameo makes waves worldwide

By Gabriella Vukman

With its premiere at the Cameo on Sunday 18 February, the enthralling Julian Assange documentary ‘The Trust Fall’ is making waves worldwide.

In line with Assange’s last chance at avoiding extradition to the US before he is sent to be detained there for the rest of his life, the film is a call to action.

Founder of ‘Films For Change’ and director of ‘The Trust Fall,’ Kym Staton said, “Assange is just the canary in the coalmine in terms of what is going on with our freedoms in the western world.”

Spanning a duration of 130 minutes and starring narrators Susan Sarandon, Roger Waters, Tom Morello and rapper M.I.A, the film is an expose on the “travesties of justice” associated with “the most famous political prisoner,” as Mr Staton explained.

The film has gained traction on social media across various platforms and its GoFundMe has raised $137,000 so far with an aim of $145,000.

Mr Staton said, “press freedom is declining all around the world.”

“There are currently over 500 journalists in prison today for their work and Julian is just one of those over 500,” Mr Staton said.

“If 50 per cent of the population knew

what was going on, politicians would just have to do the right thing but because of ignorance, they can continue to hide away from responsibilities and avoid taking action on it.”

The film is an ensemble of animation, archived and ‘never before seen’ footage of Assange and other recent interviews with journalists, activists, avid Assange supporters, government leaders among other highprofile experts.

“I wrote the documentary over around a six week period,” Mr Staton said.

“I had all of these ideas in my head after a year of production, interviews and research so I started a routine of every morning writing a little bit.”

Mr Staton said, “I was sharing my words on social media every day and whichever bits of writing got the best responses, ended up in the film.”

Community cinema is playing a large role in spreading awareness via ‘The Trust Fall’ documentary.

Mr Staton said, “at the moment what we are asking people to do is suggest the film to their local cinema and we’re seeing that work.”

“The first cinema to take up our documentary turned out to be Mareeba drive-in in a small town of 7000,” Mr Staton said.

“We drove 24 hours up there not knowing if anyone would turn up but when we rocked up to the drive in there were 215 people and over 100 cars there - it was full and it was awesome! That told us that it doesn’t matter where we go, there’s going to be people interested in this issue.”

Mr Staton’s passion is education and awareness-building.

“From my perspective the best thing we can do with this film is to raise more awareness,” he said.

“The only way that is possible for an Australian journalist to be kept in solitary confinement for years and years which is essentially torture, is because of a lack of awareness,” Mr Staton said.

“Our aim is to get it out and encourage cinemas everywhere to show ‘The Trust Fall.’

Warning the documentary editors that hacking, limitations and a potential shut down were risks in ‘The Trust Fall’ project, Mr Staton was wary of the project being shut down before its release.

“Thankfully we were able to get the film out, get it classified in Australia and we successfully showed it at parliament house in Canberra,” Mr Staton said.

“I think the reason why we have been able to continue is because the people who are responsible for this persecution and false nar-

rative of Julian Assange are expecting a passive documentary that just covers the ‘what’ and ‘when’, confirming their depiction.

“They will be surprised to view the never seen before footage, especially of the victims of the collateral murder incident which have never been seen before. they are going to realise that this film will rapidly increase opposition to their agenda,” Mr Staton said.

‘The Trust Fall’ is currently showing at various cinemas across the country and donations are still very much welcome.

Mr Staton said, “All the way through the film we hoped that Julian would end up watching it from his sitting room.”

“In the short term I am hopeful that the people that are persecuting Julian do the right thing and let him go free but if it continues to drag on, the film will continue to raise awareness for him as long as he needs it,” Mr Staton said.

“People watching a hundred or thousand years from now can think ‘what were we doing?’ ‘How did we let this happen?’”

Mr Staton confirmed that Julian Assange “is aware of the film” but could not say anything more for confidentiality reasons.

Visit the documentary’s website at: thetrustfall.org

NewJulianAssangedocumentary‘TheTrustFall’incinemasnow.

Pictures:FILMSFORCHANGE TheFilmisacalltoactionandraisesawarenessforjournalist prisonerJulianAssange.

PeterHaynewithhisdebutnovelAJourneytoThePatch. 388160

Picture:STEWARTCHAMBERS

Powerful football film on at Knox Community Centre

By Tanya Steele

Inclusion and belonging are the themes that set the stage for a student come filmmaker who joined a new local women’s footy club in regional Victoria.

Knox Community Arts Centre is set to host a free screening of the powerful film “Equal the Contest” to celebrate InternationalWomen’s Day on Thursday 7 March.

Creator Director Mitch Nivalis said the film came about when Nivalis saw a poster for a local women’s football team in Mt Alexander inviting women and gender diverse people to their first “come and try” day.

The photography student turned filmmaker was initially looking for a master’s project to challenge gender roles and stereotypes and went along to investigate but never expected to fall in love with the game at the same time.

“I had a kick and just loved it,” they said.

Nivalis had never seen such an a club actively embracing gender diversity and the film follows the club’s journey as they explore the themes of gender and inclusivity in football.

“This was the first time where the first and foremost priority was about creating culture and community and making everyone feel accepted no matter where they were at… and that shifted everything for me.”

Nivalis said the filmmaking style came about partly because they had the conundrum of wanting to play in the team, but also document their story.

“I had the idea to attach cameras to my body and just as I started doing that, we got rejected from the league – I immediately realised there was a much bigger story there,” they said.

Not long after joining, the club had their application to field a team in the local AFL women’s league rejected and the film ultimately morphed into a feature length documentary.

“I just started documenting and documenting and, you know, then I thought maybe it’s going to be a 10 minute short film, and it just grew and grew,” Nivalis said.

Equal the Contest has been selected for seven film festivals (five in Australia and two internationally) and has now been picked up for distribution in Australia by Umbrella Entertainment.

Responses to the film have been powerful and Nivalis said the “Equal the Contest” has really been resonating with a lot of different demographics of viewers.

“The film speaks to a number of different things and any girl or woman or gender di-

verse person over about the age of 15, or 20, they’re seeing themselves and their experiences reflected,” they said.

“It’s also been really exciting to see the response from men and boys understanding the barriers that do exist for women and girls that they didn’t fully understand before that moment.”

“They’re having a penny drop moment where they’re realising what they can be doing differently to be allies and advocates for women in sport and standing up, taking action and volunteering and all the different ways that they can participate to progress women’s participation in sport.”

One year on from its release Nivalis said the journey has been humbling and exciting.

“While I was making the film, it felt so personal to me and the journey… and I certainly had a couple of people kind of telling me that

no one was going to be interested in watching it because it was about women’s sport,” they said.

“There was a bit of doubt that would creep in along the way, but then ultimately, I just had this really deep sense in my gut that this was a very universal story.”

The Knox screening will feature lucky door prizes, including the chance to win an AFLW Season Membership of your choice and the film screening will be followed by a panel discussion.

Entry is free, bookings are essential at: www.stickytickets.com.au/9fv4s/equal_ the_contest_film_screening.aspx

When: Thursday 7 March, 6:15pm8:30pm

Where: Knox Community Arts Centre, Cnr Mountain Hwy and Scoresby Road, Bayswater

Showcase young talents

By Dongyun Kwon

An exhibition, where visitors can see young local artists’ artworks, is on its way to open in April.

Creative Showcase, an annual art exhibition for young talented student artists, is hosted by Yarra Ranges Council in a partnership with Burrinja Cultural Centre.

32 artists all around theYarra Ranges Council’s district will showcase their art pieces in Creative Showcase 2024.

It was eligible for students who completed units 3 and 4 inVCE Art and Studio Art or in the final year of VCAL in 2023.

Burrinja Cultural Centre cultural development producer Toni Main said Creative Showcase is to celebrate the incredible and unique talents.

“Yarra Ranges Council [district] is full of artists in a professional capacity,” she said.

“It’s amazing to see these young artists coming out of school and continuing on to develop the region as an artistic and cultural district.

“It’s really great that they’re choosing to make a career out of art and we were there when they first started.”

Madison Wandmaker, who graduated from Edinburgh College, said she decided to apply for it when a lady came to her school and explained about the Creative Showcase.

“My grandparents live around here [the Memo] and I thought I would like for them to see my artwork,” Madison said. Madison’s artwork Butcherbird is based on the theme around tragedy with heavy symbolism.

“My artwork is oil on canvas, and it’s got heavy symbolism with a butcherbird and small blue wrens to pray in a serene environment.”

“It was a long process. It was a lot of talking to people about how the composition was, and also I had to try to make sure the symbolism made sense with the scenery and everything in it.

“So it was a lot of trial and error and I was trying to get it to look nice and also symbolic.”

Former Lilydale High School student Ken

Roberts will display two dresses that they sewed.

Ken said they had waited for an opportunity to exhibit their artworks.

“When I was in VCE, we came in here [The Memo] seeing some different artworks and seeing different emotions and opinions, I was like‘I want mine to be projected, I want people to experience mine.’,” they said.

“Both of my artworks are about identity, and the black one [My identity is stigma] is more of a reflection about my identity, how people’s perception can restrict and harm me and how I view myself.

“The white one [Your identity is…] is more of a focus on how broad and different everybody experiences identity and how identity runs through our blood and determines our whole entire lives.”

Ken has always loved art in their whole entire life.

“Musical artists share who they are, what they want to do and their opinions through

their music,” they said.

“I want to project and share my views, opinions and everything I’m feeling, and art is just the way I found to do it.”

Elliot Mctinerney, who graduated from Monbulk College, also desires to show his works to the public because his artworks are based on intimate and personal themes.

Elliot grew up in the family of artists and he naturally got into art as art runs in his blood.

“My mum is a photographer and both my grandmas are painters, one is a realistic painter and the other is a very surrealistic and impressionistic painter,” he said.

“I’ve always been inspired by my mum’s photography and how she would display herself so authentically.”

Elliot will exhibit four of his art pieces.

Coming out and Mirror are two of main pieces he wants to introduce to the future visitors.

“My biggest one is called Coming out and

it’s about my experience coming out as transgender, and it deals with the theme of hiding and showing yourself through the butterflies in the foreground of the image,” he said.

“I think of coming out as a game of hide and seek, like showing parts of yourself that are deemed acceptable but hiding parts of yourself that aren’t palatable to a larger audience.

“I was also really inspired by graphic and poster designers for a lot of my works, so making them look like movie posters was my big goal.”

Elliot’s other artwork Mirror portrays himself in a shattered mirror.

“It’s about how my idea of myself has been shattered and it no longer matches what I see in the mirror, linking to themes of gender dysphoria that I experience daily,” he said.

Former Mount Lilydale Mercy College student Liv Mackowiak used acrylic paint and mixed media for her artwork A Simulated Universe.

“It took a couple of months on and off to finish my artwork,” she said.

“The idea itself took a while to come up with and then it was a lot of trial and error on top of that.

“It was good to get thoughts in my head out of paper through my artwork. I think it’s more fun for me to express my thoughts through art than words.”

The Creative Showcase has been running for a long time launched separately by two different groups at first.

“It was started as two different things, so Yarra Ranges Council started their version and Burrinja also started their version, and then we combined and created a group effort.”

“It is more than a school show, so come and see the exhibition because it got through the application process.”

“The students had to apply to get in and the work is incredibly exquisite, and the young people have such a strong voice and they really delve into some beautifully poignant and personal stories in their artwork.”

The Creative Showcase will be open from Saturday 13 April to Sunday 5 May in The Memo, Healesville.

Mitch Nivalis interviewing for the film.

Pictures: PENNY RYAN The film screening is free and has a panel discussion afterwards.

Four of Creative Showcase 2024 artists.

Picture: JESSE GRAHAM

Swifty fever hits

By Maria Millers

She’s come and gone in her private jet and whether or not you have ever listened to a Tay Tay song or watched a video, you would surely have been aware of her presence in our city.

The mainstream press gave wall to wall coverage, nudging aside issues of national significance.

Love her or leave her there is no denying that Taylor Swift cannot be dismissed as just another pop singer.

She has been Times Person of the Year for 2023 and has been credited with political influence.

Questions abound whether she will again endorse Joe Biden in the upcoming US presidential election.

She’s won a swag of Grammy Awards, has beaten Elvis Presley for the most albums to debut at number one and the most number one albums by a woman in history.

She is now reputed to have achieved billionaire status.

As a pop star she sits alongside Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Madonna and as a songwriter she has been compared to Bob Dylan, Paul McCartney and Joni Mitchell.

Academics search her lyrics for associations with famous poets: Wordsworth, Dickinson even Shakespeare.

University of Melbourne hosted A Swiftposium 2024 to better understand Taylor Swift’s global impact on the music industry, fandom, popular culture and the economy.

Some couldn’t get enough, others wished she would get on her private jet and be off.

The hard fact is that 98000 attended her ERAS Tour concert at the MCG and were prepared to part with large sums of money for the privilege.

Her presence in Melbourne is said to have contributed millions to our economy as fans willingly paid for inflated prices on air fares, hotel accommodation, food and outrageously overpriced merch (Are these the same people who are doing it tough in the current cost of living crisis?).

Managed by her mother and father she often compares herself to a family business and indeed whoever is responsible, the marketing has been impressive.

And, at a time, when family and community networks are frayed, she offers to her fans a sense of belonging and symbols of friendship to what some say is akin to a cult.

Her lyrics feature friends, lovers, enemies and ex partners and fans love this insight into her personal stories of heartbreak and revenge.

WOORILLA WORDS

This correlates with our current obsession with confessional memoir, from stories of misery and the macabre to celebrity tell all.

Her lyrics range from early songs about teenage crushes to betrayals, from a wholesome image to now one of a powerful female protagonist in a patriarchal society.

Is she a good role model for young women? And is she a force for good?

Certainly no role model in sustaining long relationships.

So is she a great 21 st century poet or just a marketing success story?

She has certainly unashamedly owned the narrative of her life, warts and all from the painful and cringe worthy to the triumphal Maybe that explains the extraordinary loyalty and following she enjoys from young females.

Her relatability is often cited, par ticularly by anyone who has been victimized in a society that still dismisses women’s feelings as inconsequential.

Her confessional style has been often compared to other well known poets who have mined their own emotional lives: Ann Sexton, Adrienne Rich , Elizabeth Bishop, Sylvia Plath. But Swift’s poetry never reaches the lyricality and depth of these poets.

Her work when read (as distinct from her highly polished videos) appears simplistic, selfobsessed, as the following extract from Look what you made me do shows:

Don’t like your little games

Don’t like your tilted stage

The role you made me play of the fool

No, I don’t like you

I don’t like your perfect crime

How you laugh when you lie

You said the gun was mine

Isn’t cool, no, I don’t like you (oh!)

But I got smarter, I got harder in the nick of time

Honey, I rose up from the dead, I do it all the time

I got a list of names, and yours is in red, underlined

I check it once, then I check it twice, oh!

Ooh, look what you made me do

Look what you made me do

Ontheotherhandthefollowingextract(with no accompanying video) from Sylvia Plath’s famous poem Daddy written not long before her suicide and shortly after being abandoned by her husband Ted Hughes shows a much higher poetic sensibility as she reflects on the impact of her father’s death when she was a young child.

You stand at the blackboard, daddy,

In the picture I have of you,

A cleft in your chin instead of your foot

But no less a devil for that, no not

Any less the black man who

Bit my pretty red heart in two.

I was ten when they buried you.

At twenty I tried to die

And get back, back, back to you.

I thought even the bones would do.

But they pulled me out of the sack, And they stuck me together with glue. And then I knew what to do.

I made a model of you,

A man in black with a Meinkampf look

Taylor Swift whether you like her songs or not cannot be dismissed nor her impact minimized or ignored and as someone once said writing is revenge without the need to ask permission or apology, where ethics can be pushed aside to not give in to gendered expectations of etiquette and propriety.

The personal is always political.

But I got smarter, I got harder in the nick of time

Honey, I rose up from the dead, I do it all the time

I got a list of names, and yours is in red, underlined

Now in her thirties it will be interesting to see how she evolves and reinvents herself in the future.

Landfill raises concerns for Monbulk Creek

Father Shane Reade, (p3 Mail 20 February) director of the Don Bosco Retreat Centre in the Lysterfield Valley trivialises the massive destructive impact of a four-year landfill project on the Retreat’s site as creating a “little nice landscape or small lake” with “a few rocks”.

The application, rightly refused by Yarra Ranges Council, now under appeal, wants to strip 15 hectares of agricultural topsoil, dump some 400,000 cubic metres of landfill to a depth of four metres, then magically “roll back” the topsoil with no ill effects, flies in the face of so many local and state protection planning controls as to be ludicrous.

The application contravenes policies of Biodiversity, River corridors and waterways, Significant Environments and Landscapes, Catchment planning and management, and the often-challenged Green Wedge Protection Zone.

The 15ha site is at the heart of the Lysterfield Valley Green Wedge Protection Zone and runs along the fenceline of the popular Granite Track in Birdsland Reserve which from its summit offers stunning views the length of the whole valley towards the city skyline.

The site also directly abuts Monbulk Creek, home of a precious platypus population, including the oldest recorded platypus in Australia. How does 400,000 cubic metres of “innominate” ie unnamed, unspecified landfill not threaten the creek‘s health with sediment run off, long term toxic leaching and removal of existing soil for four years?

I recall a Cranbourne planning disaster, where a housing estate was built over a remediated ex-rubbish dump which resulted in toxic emissions invading residents’ homes. And currently, the Sydney slip-up with asbestos getting mixed up with playground mulch.

Ya gotta love ’em

I am writing about “Those Blokes”!

Sorry gals - I acknowledge you are gradually infiltrating that ”enclave”good luck and well done.

However at some time, most of us have had dealings with this cohort of predominantly male fellas when we need advice/help on things that “go wrong” or require their “yeah can do” attitude.

Easily recognised-light coloured shorts in all weather, work boots with good socks, a well worn T shirt, maybe a footy or fishing cap, a commonly used spiral writing pad and a Biro, plus driving an enviable Ute/SUV- which is tax deductible, great for work and adaptable should an opportunity to cater for camping if required.

Good blokes, love a chat, but usually they have a mean eye on what the consumers can and will pay.

Always with a well informed idea of what is needed, they are well trained, capable, switched on as to “how to earn an extra quid” and available unless the consumer is a tad unappreciative and how much profit they think they are entitled to-sorry guys!

Ya Gotta love ‘em!!

But when push came to shove - as happened onTuesday 13 February about 3.30pm - when a unexpectedly severe and damaging storm hit our Dandenong Ranges and far belong - who were the ones who pulled up, maybe on their way home or to collect their kids from school, but pulled up, jumped out of their cars and combined without any hassle - to work with other tradies to clear trees from the many and dangerously impacted roads.

YES the “TRADIES”!

With no Bull***t— nor need for acknowledgement!

When having completed their voluntary task - they just got into their utes, cars and SUV’s and proceeded on their journey.

I along with many other people, thank them for their help, their endeavours, and their preparedness to just “jump in” when needed with good humour and the capacity to work with other like minded blokes -who adopted a ”can-do” mind set and helped to resolve a dangerous situation.

Thank you guys - as a communitywe owe you!

A big acknowledgement to all the other people who give of their time and skills in times of emergency - a big thank you - you are much appreciated.

But to the tradies - basically trained via the Tech School Education systemand maybe a tad of help from further studies, ta muchly.

Ya Gotta Love Em.

L Atherton, Upwey

Judy Wolff

Does Fr Reade’s optimistic appeal for trust, coupled with the vaguest of management plans for this “innominate” dump threaten the same fate for our valley? Once it’s gone, it’s gone.

A planning proposal at the Don Bosco Retreat Centre will be heading to VCAT. 361681

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Looking back

By Joy Gothe

I have lived in the Lilydale District since the early 1970s and have seen many changes since then and thought I knew everything about the town.

I have been a member of the Society for over 10 years and find that almost every day I am learning something more about Lilydale that I never knew before. There is a rich and fascinating history behind every one of the old buildings that still remain in the Main Street.

Lilydale township was first surveyed in 1860 and land sales in the town were held.

Within two years there were a post office, a store, a butcher’s shop and a hotel.

The northern area was planted with several large vineyards and some smaller vineyards adjoining the township.

Lilydale was now beginning to grow.

I am introducing you to an old remnant of that time, a Lilydale business that has now gone and no longer exists, only a ghost of it remains.

It was the first industry to take off in Lilydale and it was a Tannery.

Tanning was the process of transforming animal skins into leather.

The Lilydale Rate Books for February 1872

show the Tannery owner as a Richard Hand, a Currier (old term for a work who tans hides), The Tannery buildings occupied two blocks on the south side of Market Street between Clarke Street and the Olinda Creek Reserve.

The tannery works comprised a series of pits used for soaking and cleaning the hides and there was also a bark mill which chopped up the wattle bark for the tannin which was to be used in the tanning process.

The machinery at the tannery was operated by a four horse power water wheel, which was fed by a tributary that was cut from the Olinda Creek in 1879.

The great rush of water flowing down the tributary kept this wheel in motion.

The fine leather produced from this valuable industry was used to make book covers, harnesses, saddles, bridles, gloves, etc.

Today, all that remains of the Lilydale Tannery is the David Wilkinson Pavilion owned by the Lilydale Agricultural Show Society, with the Jean Eales Pavilion standing on most of the old tannery site.

If you would love to find out more about the history of some of our buildings, industries and places, read our book Public Places Public Lives 1860s to 1870s available from our website shop at www.lilydalehistorical.com.au for $25.00.

Book review makes a comeback!

Greetings, dear constant readers!

After several months of absence, I am now back at work, and I want to wish you all a very belated Happy (Lunar) New Year.

I hope you have been happily reading your favourite books!

I was unable to read and write for a while, due to two cataract surgeries and some related complications.

I can honestly say that being unable to read books, not only print but also digital, was absolutely a pain.

Worse than that was being able to listen to audiobooks but unable to write proper reviews.

Renowned American author Helen Keller once said: “The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.”

By the time I was struggling to read mobile phone menus, I knew I had to stop reading and writing altogether.

The impact was just as Confucius described it: “Three days without reading makes one feel abominable.”

Luckily, as American literary critic and translator Barbara Johnson suggested: “It never hurts your eyesight to look on the bright side of things.”

The bright side of life helps me recognise the importance of good health, and of hav-

PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN

ing families and friends guide me through a myriad of challenges and obstacles.

For this, I am very grateful.

I also realise there are more constructive ways to give back to our community.

Instead of reviewing and recommending one book at a time – with intensive reading likely being one contributor to my eye problems – perhaps I can utilise my other skills and contribute to our society by promoting arts and cultural events with a focus on literature and literacy.

Via the “Passion for Prose” column, I have been doing this with The Star Mail’s assistance to some extent.

Indeed, before the column came to a halt in October 2023, I had reviewed and recommended 93 books and 25 literary events and trends in Australia and overseas.

Looking ahead, in 2024, I would like to increase the number of arts, cultural and literary events featured in this column.

The focus will still be literature and literacy, but I want to bring my reviews and recommendations more aligned with The Star Mail’s operations to provide news and information relevant to communities across Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges.

From time to time there will be arts, cultural and literary news of national and international significance to be introduced to our local readers.

With that said, if you find a specific literary event or a book worth reviewing or recommending, please get in touch.

Simply drop a line to my Gmail address (christine.yunnyu.sun@gmail.com) and I will respond ASAP.

I very much hope that via The Star Mail as an important regional newspaper, we can work together to promote literature and literary across our diverse communities.

Since the launch of the landmark “National Cultural Policy – Revive” in January 2023, our arts and culture has been recognised as being central to our country’s future.

We can all do our small bit to contribute.

Mother and Son - a wonderful evening

1812 Theatre

Mother and Son

First my congratulations to Director Pip Le Blond for such a wonderful evening of Mother and Son.

The stage setting was brilliant, a lounge room, a kitchen to audience left and then when required a wall was moved to give a dentist’s rooms and a respite area.

The players all had high standards making a delightful evening. Maggie (Mother) was played by Anne B. Smith an absolute extraordinary performance of an elderly lady not sure of her memory and the trouble that causes her son Arthur.

Something many of the audience could relate to. Her son, Arthur, was given an understanding yet frustrating performance as the son who looked after his mother but was not her favourite son.

Tony Clayton caught the essence of such a character giving a superb and sympathetic performance.

His brother Robert, the one mother calls her favourite son was played by George Thompson.

A wonderful performance of the somewhat sleazy character, two timing his wife.

Kemp’s curtain call

Robert’s wife Liz, who put up with so much then did something about it was played by Anna Ruth Laird A remarkable performance living up to the standard of the other performers.

The author, Geoffrey Atherden, the original writer of the TV show wrote the stage production bringing it up to date with mobile phones and skype. Maggie communicated with her grandchildren. 1812 theatre had twoTV screens each side of the stage where the audience saw what was happening when Maggie used skype.

The two grandchildren were played by Skyla Cleverley and Josh Cleverley both giving good performances.

There various voice overs used as fill ins as the sets were changed for various scenes.

The BasinTheatre

Hatched,Matched and Dispatched

A story of life, birth marriage and death. An interesting concept by author/actor Chris Hudson.

Three plays with an interesting introduction including the author playing a car and the door lady playing the usher.

Both were extremely good in their roles and the audience was left wondering of this was or was not part of the show.

The story of Hatched revolved around a young couple who were parents for the first time and their respective parents/grandparents arriving. The girl is Greenie and so are her parents.

The husband goes along with his wife, but his parents are business people ,and the father has notimeforGreenies.LucyButlerwasFleurinthis palay as the young new mother. A good performer and handled the role with finesse.

She also played Sarah and Judith in the followingstorieshandlingtheofcharacterswithfinesse.

Kai Ratiteri was the young father in this story and was Simon and Stan in the other stories.

Klai projects well but does need to speak up a little. As the other roles he did a good job of handling different characters.

Top comedy

Drive-Away Dolls

Starring Margaret Qualley, Geraldine Viswanathan and Beanie Feldstein

Rated MA15+ 4.25/5

The first solo feature film by Ethan Coen (half of the iconic Coen Brothers), DriveAway Dolls is an offbeat, touching roadtrip comedy.

In 1999, two lesbian best friends – the free-spirited Jamie (Margaret Qualley) and the closed-off Marian (Geraldine Viswanathan) – decide to move to Tallahassee, Florida together, but get tangled up in a criminal operation on the way.

Written by Coen and his wife Tricia Cooke, Drive-Away Dolls is a funny, endearing, character-rich film with a scintillating screenplay.

Qualley and Viswanathan have extraordinary chemistry, and the dialogue is endlessly witty but feels natural. Through cozy slow pacing sprinkled with danger, Marian and Jamie, who start the film as polar opposites, grow closer and progress as people amid adversity.

Jamie is pushy and reckless but cares deeply for Marian, and Marian slowly loosens up and becomes more adventurous. Joey Slotnick and C.J.

Wilson provide levity from a different angle as a bumbling criminal duo on the ladies’ trail, and if you’ve ever wondered what’s inside the briefcase in Pulp Fiction, Drive-Away Dolls offers perhaps the funniest answer possible.

Drive-Away Dolls has plenty of laughout-loud moments, vibrant cinematography and several brief animated interludes that evoke primitive nineties CGI (though some viewers may find these interludes irritating, along with some abrupt editing). It’s also good to see a sex-positive film about two lesbians in a mainstream cinema. The sex scenes are hot without being explicit and aren’t exaggerated for our titillation; they are, first and foremost, a medium for the characters to bond.

Quirky, kinky, moving and very funny, Drive-Away Dolls is playing in select Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine

ACROSS

1 Cicatrix (4)

3 New comers to the nation (10)

10 Marriage (7)

11 Sloping type (7)

12 Inventoried (8)

13 Publication (5)

14 Uncommon (4)

15 Bypass (10)

18 Process of change (10)

20 Help (4)

21 Homeland of Sachin Tendulkar (5)

23 Distinguishing badges (8)

26 Dizziness (7)

27 Ships (7)

28 A release of information (10)

29 Holy song (4)

DOWN

1 Cut (4)

2 More than one auditorium (9)

4 Provisional (9)

5 Homerian epic (5)

6 Practical view (7)

7 Fasteners (5)

8 Possibly guilty (9)

9 Composition in verse (4)

14 Recovered (9)

16 Bridge (9)

17 Elusively (9)

19 Having three dimensions (7)

22 Game of skill (5)

23 False gods (5)

24 Huff (4)

25 Book ID (1,1,1,1)

DECODER WORDFIT

9-LETTER WORD

No. 174

3 LETTERS

Aim:

12

No. 174

No. 174

PROPERTY

CHARMING CALIFORNIAN BUNGALOW

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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 Caesar stone 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 and Cockatoo Pony Club.

This property has it all so don’t miss outcall 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. ●

39MainStreet,Gembrook$780,000 -$850,000

Opportunity,ViewsandIdealLocationAwaitWithThisCharmingCottage!

ThismixedzoningpropertylocatedontheGembrookMainStreetisdirectlyoppositetheGembrook

PrimarySchool &offersviewstotheWarburtonRanges.Renovatethe 2bedroom,1 bathroomminers cottagewithwelcomingfrontverandah,ordemolish& buildyourdreamhomeorbusiness(STCA)on this1051sqmallotment.Situatedbehind amaintainedhedge,therearetwodriveways,allowingfor plentyofoff-streetparking.Thehomeitselfhas acosyfrontverandah &leadlightfeaturefrontdoor. Enterthehometodiscoverthefrontloungeroomwithopenwoodfire.Thereis amasterbedroom andthenflowthroughtothekitchenwithfreestandingwoodfireandelectricstove/oven.Then discover asecondbedroom.Totherearofthehomeisa generouslaundry,bathroomwith ashower overbath,andmudroom/secondsittingarea.Externallythereisa shedinthefullyfencedrearyard.

KarenPeele

M 0419430950

3BellStreet,Cockatoo$650,000 -$695,000

ThisHomeisBurstingWithCockatooCottageCharm!

Withestablishedgardenssurroundingthis 3bedroom,1 bathroomhome,enjoythefeelingofbeing shelteredfromthehustleandbustle &yetbeinglessthan5 minuteswalktotheconveniencesof CockatooMainstreet.Thishomehas acirculargraveldriveway, aDLUG, &has afullyfencedfront yard,separatefencedbackyard, &gatedfrontporch.Enterthehometofind acosywoodfireinthe loungeroom.Thekitchen& loungeroomareopenplan, &thereis aslidingdoorfromthediningroom totherearpavedarea.2 ofthe3 bedroomsofferBIRs,whilstallutilisingthefamilybathroomwitha heater,&abath& shower.Thereis alovelyrearoutdoorcoveredentertainingarea, &theDLUGhas plentyofspacefor aworkshoparea& hasconcretefloor,power &lights.Thereisa reargardenshed &a singlecarport.

SamanthaScott M 0438680032

BethanySullivan M 0438844968

100Gembrook-TonimbukRoad,Gembrook $1,200,000 -$1,300,000

StylishEquinePropertyonapprox.5 acres!

Theexpansive 5bedroom,2 bathroomhomehasa formalloungeroom &a masterbedroomwitha largeWIR &ensuite.Nearthemasterbedroomis afurtherbedroomwithceilingfan &BIRs.Thehome hashighceilings,doubleglazedlargewindows, &reversecycleAC.Thecentralopenplankitchen/ dining/loungeareaisfloodedwithnaturallight,& offers awoodfireheater,& kitchenwitha large walkinpantry.Thekitchenhas a900mmgasstove/oven,& SSappliancesincludingdishwasher& Caesarstonebenchtops.Thereis alaundrywithit’sownexternalaccess, astudy/officearea,& then 3furtherbedrooms,allwithceilingfans& BIRs.Thesebedroomsareservicedbythefamilybathroom &separatetoilet.Externallytheacreageisdividedinto5 fullyfencedpaddocks.Thishomeutilizes gasbottles,tankwater,has4kWsolarwith18solarpanels, &mainselectricity.

AaronDay M 0407365994

BrennanMileto M 0422996451

5 A 2 BC

23WilliamsonRoad,Gembrook $890,000 -$960,000

FullyRenovated& PrivateHomeonOver½ anAcre!

Stepinsidetodiscoverthemasterbedroomwith awoodfire,WIR,ceilingfan,splitsystemAC& ensuitewithdoubleshower.Continuealongthehalltodiscover 3furtherbedroomswithBIRs, servicedby afamilybathroom &separatetoilet.Thereisanopenplanloungeroom &kitchenwitha builtingasfireplace.Thenthekitchenoffers alargeislandwithBellingstovetop,floatingrangehood, granitestonebenchtops,walkinpantry,built-inplumbedfridge,double-glazedwindows&2sets ofbifold-doorsopeningouttothereartimberentertainingdeck.Thereis apondamongstthe establishedgardenbeds,fruittrees,& twocoveredvegetablegardensallwithirrigation.Thereisalso achickencoop,multiplesheds,singlelockupgaragewithconcretefloor,& power/lighting.There aredualwatertanks,mainswater,circulardriveway& solarpanelswithinverters.

SamanthaScott M 0438680032

BethanySullivan M 0438844968

4 A 2 B 1

LARGE SCALE LIVING WITH VERSATILE FLOORPLAN

SPANNING over two levels of spacious living, this large-scale family home offers more than meets the eye. Having a flexible floorplan that offers the choice of options no matter your needs, this property is suitable for everyone including extended families and those looking for an extra investment.

The home boasts 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and either 3 living zones or a fourth bedroom option. The living areas include a comfortable lounge that extends onto the front decking and overlooks a beautiful treetop view, large rumpus room with built in bar plus a spacious family room that is the perfect extra bedroom / teenager’s bedsit.

Filled with natural sunlight, the kitchen is also enhanced by the gorgeous view and leads directly to a well sized meals area. Evaporative cooling and ducted heating can be found throughout and there is also a near new electric hot water heat pump.

A one-bedroom studio at the rear of the block is a fantastic addition to this property as could serve as extra accommodation or a work from home office set up – The choice is yours!

Great outdoor entertaining areas, a double garage, sealed driveway with extra parking and a great location complete the package and make this property an ideal investment for you and your family. ●

FORSALE

4MerrigumLane,BELGRAVE

$1,050,000to$1,150,000 ABEAUTIFULBLENDOFLOCATIONANDLIFESTYLE

1ABlackHillRoad,MENZIESCREEK $1,200,000-$1,320,000 20ACRES-A PEACEFUL,PRIVATE&PICTUREPERFECTLIFESTYLE

4 A 2 B 2 C

Architecturallydesignedandbrimmingwithbeautifulelements,thispropertyis aunique offeringwithinwalkingdistancetoBelgravetownship,BelgraveRecreationalReserveand BirdslandReserve. Withanelevatedaspectwithvistaviewsandaningroundpoolperfect forfamilies, alifetimeofenjoymentisavailableatthiseleganthome.

SuzieBrannelly

M 0490506910| E suzie@chandlerandco.com.au

Privatelypositionedon20gloriousacresandboasting abeautifulmixofgentlyforested areasandcleared,useableland,thisqualitypropertyisreadyandwaitingforitsnext ownerstobuild(STCA)andenjoythepeacefullifestylethatawaits. Withtworoadfrontages (SchoolRoadandBlackHillRoad)andconvenientaccesstobothWellingtonRoadand BurwoodHighway,thelocationofthispropertyissecondtonone.

SharynChandler

M 0439882442| E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

36BestStreet,BELGRAVE

Magnificent“Lugano”boasts atouchofMediterraneanstylepairedwith atop-notchlocation.SituatedstepsfromBelgraveOutdoorPool,trainandbustransport,schools,andBelgrave’s bustling restaurantandentertainmentprecinct,thissplendidpropertyblendsprestigeandpositiontoperfection.

SuzieBrannelly

M 0490506910| E suzie@chandlerandco.com.au

97546888

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

1689BurwoodHighway,BelgraveVIC3160 www.chandlerandco.com.au office@chandlerandco.com.au

New faces to lead club

the club presidency straightforward, “it was a natural pathway for me.”

OFC’s aim in 2024, according to the president, is to continue to build on the successes of past leaders – OFC has been voted the League’s best-conducted club a number of times, most recently in 2023. And what will he bring to OFC in 2024 - “clear and open communication, positive leadership, mentoring, inclusion, and bridging the equality gap.”

fidence and belief in the group that they can challenge the bigger teams in our league.”

Dylan will be directing OFC with the help and guidance of second year captain, and his past premiership teammate, Lachlan Taylor.

his vast club and league experience at Ben’s disposal to use as a sounding board whenever required.

Ben has seen the club from many different angles. He has watched on as a parent, been an Auskick coordinator, team manager, runner, and committee member.

Because of Ben’s past ties to the club, he understands the benefits of volunteering at grassroots level sport. Ben’s focus on participating in community sport made the choice of pursuing

OFC also has a revitalised committee which has taken over from the hard-working executive who guided the club through the Covid and post-Covid eras.

Meanwhile, one of the Club’s favourite sons, the highly respected 2017 Premiership skipper Dylan Wilson, has returned as senior coach.

Dylan knows first-hand how special it is to taste the ultimate success in football and what it takes to get there. He aims to “foster a con-

Dylan says the skipper’s “leadership qualities are clear, and I’ve been blown away by his dedication to the Bloods.” Being past teammates, the pair have experienced success and have a strong bond and“understanding of what is important for team success.”

With pre-season well underway, the new coach has been especially “pleased with the energy and enthusiasm of the group “ and the “great dynamic between the younger players and the older guys. The senior players are hungry for team success, and the kids are looking to establish themselves as key pieces in that senior team.”

In the final addition to the pool of new lead-

ership at OFC, Jake Hederics has signed on as head coach of the netball program. Jake has a richhistoryofleadership,bothasanathleteand on a range of committees in his line of work. He is a current player in the Open Men’s Victorian and Australian Netball sides and was a training partner of the Collingwood Magpies in 2023.

Jake has tasked himself with the job of bringing “enthusiasm, empathy, and responsibility” to OFC and says in a very short time the club and the girls have “made him feel right at home.” Jake is really excited about the future of Olinda’s netball program and believes that with the right guidance, this youthful group will “continue to develop into a strong unit”.

Completing the leadership structure at OFC is women’s football coach Simon Gilson, who took the team to a surprise 2023 Division 1 flag. Simon’s program has proven so popular that OFC looks set to field a second women’s team, in Division 2, this year.

2017 Division One Premiership skipper Dylan Wilson returns to OFC as coach.

Pictures: SUPPLIED New Olinda-Ferny Creek President Ben Selby addresses the playing group.

SPORT

Tigers win for the legends

By Sean Talbot

In front of a large crowd gathered at Kings Park to celebrate the Life Members and Past Players Day, the Upwey Ferntree Gully Tigers picked up an important win on the weekend against Sandringham that brought them one step closer to locking down a top four finish and another finals berth as they shoot for a three-peat.

Taking the ball for his charges and looking to lead by example as staff ace Jarrod Turner was rested, Tigers head coach Donavon Hendricks turned back the clock and delivered a truly vintage performance, arguably his best of the season, as he spun 7 shutout innings, scattering 7 hits whilst walking none and striking out 5.

Finding himself in multiple situations that threatened to get out of hand, Hendricks showed the visiting Royals why his Houdini escape act is still among the leagues best as he forced groundballs and double plays where he needed them, continually tight roping out of danger whilst frustrating the visiting side, who were themselves anchored by veteran starter Grant Irving. With both teams threatening to score through the first two innings and both pitchers finding a way out of it, the Tigers struck found a way to break through on the scoreboard in the bottom of the 3rd inning.

Pete Schroeders led off with a bunt, advanced to second base on a sacrifice bunt by Wade McConnon, advanced to third on a groundball to the right side by Jordan Elliott and scored on a booming double off the bat of Josh Hendricks before Jack Ratcliffe flew out to end the frame. The Tigers had the lead they were searching for.

A 1-2-3 inning for both pitchers in the 4th and 5th innings each kept the game quickly moving along, however Sandringham began to threaten a two-out rally in the top of the 6th inning as Irving laced a double off his counterpart and Jack Wills singled to right field to put runners at the corners and give the Royals hope of levelling the score.

D Hendricks was more than up to the task as he induced a weak ground ball off the bat of Declan Ferguson that third baseman Randy Senn made quick work of to end the inning.

Upwey promptly answered back in the bottom half of the inning, with Elliott lacing a double to left field before Hendricks singled to centerfield to score Elliott and push the lead to 2-0 Upwey within 4 pitches.

The Tigers were unable to utilize the momentum to advance their runner any further however, as Jack Ratcliffe popped out to the pitcher attempting to lay down a bunt,.

Staci Rogers flew out to Matt Blackmore in centerfield and D Hendricks popped out to shortstop, but the damage was done, and the Tigers had doubled their lead. Sandringham took their licks in the top of the 7th inning, but D Hendricks put the finishing touches on his outing, working another 1-2-3 inning to end his day.

Going to their bench for a pinch hitter for D Hendricks, Harvey Chinn was called for an atbat as he continues his rehab and looks to be 100% come finals.

A deep fly ball to Ferguson in right field did not find grass and the first out of the inning was in the books. Nick Rice laced a single to left field to give the Tigers a baserunner before Schroeders lined a double to left field that may have been knocked down slightly at third base, it rolled far enough to allow Rice to fly home like he was racing downhill the whole way to score Upwey’s third run of the game.

McConnon singled to centerfield to advance Schroeders to third and another team at-bat from Elliott saw the catcher hit a chopper to the right side that scored Schroeders but unfortunately saw McConnon forced out at second. J Hendricks launched a booming double to left field that had a launch angle suggesting it was headed for the moon to score Elliott and push the score to 5-0 before Ratcliffe grounded out to shortstop to end the frame.

JarrodTurner was handed the ball in the 8th inning for a single inning of work, however the right hander wasn’t quite as sharp as Tiger fans have become accustomed. Harrison Wills lined a one-out single to left field before Sam Trend-Beacom was drilled with a pitch and Ir-

ving singled to left field to load the bases with one out, with Sandringham threatening to claw back into the game. Turner however had much different ideas as he showed why he and D Hendricks are 1A and 1B when it comes to the leagues best escape artists, striking out J Wills swinging before Ferguson popped out to McConnon at shortstop to end the threat and Turner’s day.

Wes de Jong took the ball and made quick work of the lower half of the Royals order in the ninth after a lead-off single to Matt Blackmore, getting Joshua Meyer to pop out to Elliott, striking out Ty Daniels before Lachlan Smith lifted a routine fly ball to centerfield where Wilson happily snatched it up.

The Hendricks brothers were both outstanding for Upwey on the day, with Donavon picking up the win with his 7 scoreless innings and Josh blasting two doubles and a single to compliment 3 RBI’s, with Schroeders (3 hits, 1 RBI) and Elliott (2 hits, 1 RBI) more than doing their bit as well.

The win improved Upwey’s record to 16-8-1 from 25 games to retain third place on the Premier League ladder as they are now 3.5 games clear of Sandringham in fifth place with four games remaining on the season.

The 2nds also took the field looking to add another win to their season record, however they had to fight for it well and truly, coming out eventual 10-6 winners against the visiting Royals.

In a game that featured a combined 10 (yes,

10) errors between both teams, the Tigers were able to capitalize more than their counterparts on the free baserunners they were given, scoring thrice in the first inning and six times in the third inning to do enough to take home the points.

Sean Meldrum took the start for Upwey and found that Sandringham came to play from the first pitch of the game, as Kynan Wilcox reached on an error by Jayden Christie-Dossetter before swiping second base, then advancing to third and eventually scoring on a throwing error by Ryder Wilson.

Upwey answered right back in the bottom half, as Ash Geary-Smith reached on an error by pitcher Cooper Drummond, Michael Oxworth singled and Flynn Morrison singled to load the bases with one out, however Manning Davison was struck out to give the Royals a chance at a double play to get out of the inning. It was not to be however, as an error by second baseman Wilcox advanced all runners one base to score Geary-Smith and Oxworth. Flynn Morrison was out at home attempting to score on a wild pitch before Will Richardson singled to score Christie-Dossetter and Upwey’s third run of the inning. Sandringham were turned away in turn in the 2nd and 3rd innings before Upwey blew the game wide open in the bottom half of the 3rd. Oxworth worked a leadoff walk, Morrison followed with a walk of his own before Davison belted a double to left field, scoring both Oxworth and Morrison before advancing to third base on an unneces-

sary throwing error on the relay that could be called questionable at best and boneheaded at worst. Christie-Dossetter singled to score Davison, Matt Cameron singled to put two runners on and Wilson doubled to left to score Christie-Dossetter to push the score to 7-1. Cameron andWilson then both scored a circus error at home plate to push the score to 9-1 before the inning came to an end.

The Royals made things interesting in the fourth inning, combining four hits and an error to plate three runs and move the score to 9-4.

Upwey were held scoreless in the bottom half, unable to make anything of a leadoff single by Morrison before Josh Yung took the ball to start the fifth inning.

Sandringham again threatened, using two singles and a walk to load the bases, however Yung found his way out of danger to keep the score at 9-4.

Cameron led off the 5th inning with his second single of the day before Wilson bunted for a safe hit. Living fossil Mark Jones sacrificed both runners another base before Wilson scampered home to score Upwey’s 10th run after Cameron was called out at home on a play where was clearly safe. Yung found himself in trouble in the top of the 6th, however the two runs the Royals scored were not enough to bring them the win as time and game was called and Upwey’s 11th win was in the books.

Upwey (second, 11-5-1) now look to the last regular season game next weekend against storied rival Waverley (third, 9-6) as they look to end their season with a win streak and momentum coming into finals.

The 3rds travelled to Sandringham and unable to come home victors, on the wrong end of a 10-7 result after surrendering 6 runs to the hosts in the bottom half of the eventual last inning of the game. Dan Smith did his best with bat and ball to keep his side in the game, however the Tigers were unable to take advantage of nine Royals errors before committing three of their own in the last innings to see the hosts run away with the game.

Upwey scored runs in four of their five innings in positive signs for the Tigers, however eight walks and a hit better against to go with the three errors gave Sandringham more than enough free baserunners to take the points.

Upwey continue to sit in third place with a 9-5-2 record as they will take on fourth placed Waverley in a grudge match for the ages.

The 4ths were also on the road to Sandringham but fared much better, racking up 16 hits on the way to scoring 10 runs to run out eventual winners 10-3. Russell (not Richard) Ferguson and Dom McGrath shared pitching duties, with each throwing three innings to keep the hosts off balance and give their hitters plenty of chances to score runs. Eight of the 10 Upwey hitters recorded safe hits, with six of those picking up multiples.

Steve Williams (3 hits, 1 RBI) and Sean O’Halloran (3 hits, 2 RBI) were the pick of the Tiger hitters, with Paul Sadler, McGrath, Blake Halupecki and Riley Johnson each recording 2 hits. Upwey scored at least one run in every inning of the game, effectively running circles around their opposition on the way to their league leading 15th win of the season.

The first placed Tigers (15-1) will take on Waverley (third, 12-4-1) next weekend in a game both teams will be clamouring to win to secure bragging rights coming into finals.

Scores for the Regional Metro East 5ths and Regional Metro South 6ths were unavailable at time of writing.

The Lady Tigers hosted Sandringham/Berwick and proceeded to perform a hit job on the visitors, scoring the maximum seven runs in each of their three inning on their way to a massive 21-8 win. Jess “Dusty” McDonald took the start for Upwey and threw all three innings, only running into trouble in the last as she tired in the heat, surrendering seven runs on a combination of hits, errors and walks. Upwey took full advantage of 18 walks (with every hitter getting at least one) to go along with 10 hits to put the game well and truly beyond doubt.

The win improves the Lady Tigers to 15-1 on the season as they also take on Waverley (third, 10-5-1) next weekend.

Tigers first baseman Josh Hendricks.

Picture: ADAM BATTYE

Finals in sight, chockers weekend ends in success

By Jack Rollings

Weekend Pennant. Saturday was an exciting day at Monbulk.

The top green was chockers, all rinks full, with Monbulk 2 and Monbulk 3 both fighting out their semifinals against Cockatoo and Healesville.

There was a crowd of spectators with plenty of support for all sides - on the green, the competition was ferocious.

Monbulk 3 played against Healesville and on all three rinks Monbulk dominated for the whole day. It was a convincing win 84 shots to 35. Chris Sullivan’s team was the standout performer with an amazing winning margin of 25 shots.

Across all the rinks there was good team support for our Monbulk bowlers and an appreciation of what was at stake.

Monbulk 3 will now head straight into next Saturday’s grand final against the winner of Sunday’s preliminary final between Healesville 2 and Mitcham 5.

The last time Monbulk 2 played Cockatoo this season they had success. Saturday was a final and it was tougher.

Monbulk took the first few ends, but it didn’t take long for the experienced Cockatoo skips to find their mark, and they didn’t let Monbulk get away with much after that.

The composite scoreboard was in Cockatoo’s favour for most of the afternoon and Cockatoo went on to win the semifinal 86 shots to 68 with three rinks up.

Don Barnetson’s team had a win. Two of the Monbulk teams were close losses, but one of the Monbulk teams suffered a blowout loss.

But that’s not where it ended - Monbulk 2 had a second chance, because they finished on top of the ladder. So, on Sunday they played at Monbulk, against Ringwood 3 in the preliminary final and they absolutely romped it in. Case Broekhof’s team had the standout results, dropping only six ends for the day, all for minor scores. While their wins included three 3s, two 4s, a 5 and a 6.

At the break they were already 18 shots up. In the back half they kept up the pressure and won their rink 39 shots to 9.

Don Barnetson’s team had a tough front half and found themselves trailing for most of the game, but not by much,

always within reach.

Then, with just five ends to go, and down by 6 shots, Don’s team were able to grab the points and get their noses in front and take the rink 20 shots to 17.

Graeme Goller’s team had it rough the previous day’s semi. But they bounced back in the prelim and showed what they are capable of. They dropped only five ends for the day, for minor scores.

They led by 13 shots at the halfway mark. Then they sizzled to the finish, winning the final six ends with 13 shots. They won their rink 32 shots to 6.

Andy Smith’s team had the close one. Scores were level five times and it wasn’t until the race home, when Monbulk picked up a couple of good multiples, that our team could feel secure. They won the rink 16 shots to 12.

Overall Monbulk defeated Ringwood, in the preliminary final, 107 shots to 44, with all four rinks up. So, they will also be playing in a granny next Saturday where they will again be facing up to Cockatoo.

The venues for the grand finals haven’t been decided yet. This is a great achievement for Monbulk’s small club, having two sides in the weekend grand finals. This Friday, starting at 4pm at Monbulk, will be the finals of the Monbulk Ladies’ and Men’s Singles Club Championships.

In the Ladies’ final it will be Anne Ward vs Jenny Holmes and in the Men’s final, it will be Brian Smith vs Tony French.

Spectators are welcome. You might like to book into the bistro for a meal as well.

Solid wins for Monbulk

By Aaron Gillard

The ones had a very strong win. Duncan Maher continued his fine season, taking 6/27 from 16.4 overs and now has 30 wickets for the season. Keelan Storey backed him up superbly, taking 3/13 from 11 overs to help defeat UFTG outright.

The 2s had a solid win as they cement a top two spot with one round to play. It was set up with the bat last week, with Kyle Snyman making 60* and wicketkeeper batsman Brendan Hooker making 50. Daniel Cleary was the pick of the bowlers, taking 4/37 from 17 overs to ensure they held UFTG at bay.

The 3’s beat top side SKLPS 1st XI to get a well deserved win. A spirited all-round performance was highlighted by Jason Fraser and Charlie Hooper with the bat, making 46 & 39 respectively. With the ball, Daniel Rowe (3 wickets) and Tam Noonan (2 wickets), and tight bowling from Michael Adams ensured a great win!

In the 4s, Mark Bailey made 70 from 80 balls to be the standout performer in an unfortunate loss.

Our 5ths had a great win beating Lysterfield. Tom Berman 96*, Brayden Brockwell 53 and Ming Poynton 27* were standouts with the bat, while Jason Dekkers took 4/8 with the ball.

The juniors had mixed results, with only the Fast 9s getting a win.

Our Fast 9s had a great win over Emerald, with Archer Arnott the standout making 34* and taking 2/12. He was well supported by Heath Grigg (24) and all his other teammates,

in what was a great team performance with bat and ball. The juniors finish up next weekend, and will be looking to finish on a high!!

Picture:SUPPLIED

At the club, we have our past players/life members & premiership reunion day, followed by our 5K draw! It’s going to be a big week at the MCC! Get down and support the 1s at

home, before staying for a great evening. Scores

· 1st XI - Monbulk 7/148 declared (J. Spencer 37, B. Martin 29) def Upper Ferntree Gully 10/55 (J. Wensley 4/12, A. Powell 3/7) & 10/77 (D. Maher 6/27, K. Storey 3/13)

· 2nd XI – Monbulk 6/246 (K. Snyman 60*, B. Hooker 50, B. Trinnick 27) def Upper Ferntree Gully 10/199 (D. Cleary 4/37, J. Santini 2/28, E. Blenkiron 2/39)

· 3rd XI – Monbulk 10/200 (J. Fraser 46, C. Hooper 39, C. Spooner 23) def SKLPS (TBC)

· 4th XI – Monbulk 10/210 (M. Bailey 70, D. Blenkiron 30) def by South Belgrave 6/214 (J. Mackay 2/44, J. Defina 2/17)

· 5th XI – Monbulk 2/192 (T. Berman 96*, B. Brockwell 53, M. Poynton 27*) def Lysterfield 10/129 (J. Dekkers 4/8, C. Fraser 2/13, L. Hehir 2/20)

· U16’s: Monbulk 10/176 (W. Meyer 43, S. Blenkiron 37*, J. Fraser 27) def by Rowville Johnson Park 5/180 (S. Blenkiron 2/30, A. Sutton 1/20, E. Dawson 1/19)

· U12’s: Monbulk 7/88 (J. Chudasko 14*, F. Ratten 12) def by Lysterfield 2/104 (A. Selby 1/2, E. Toohey 1/21)

· Fast 9’s: Monbulk 4/117 (A. Arnott 34*, H. Grigg 24*, N. Jonker 11) def Emerald 6/82 (A. Arnott 2/12, A. Anoop-Nechikottli 1/15, L. Hutton 1/14, H. Watson 1/5, H. Grigg 1/6)

· Super 7s: Monbulk Gold 56 (O. Spargo 5, H. Robb 5) vs Upwey Tecoma 108 (K. Paynter 1/7)

· Super 7s: Monbulk Maroon 62 (P. Silver 4) vs Belgrave 205 (P. Silver 2/10, A. Anderson 1/23, B. Bruneau 1/17)

Monbulk3wontheirsemifinal.

DuncanMaher-6/27off16.4oversinthe1STXI.