Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 12th March 2024

Last hoorah

time.

To read more, turn to page 8

Menzies Creek came alive last week as hundreds of trailwalkers trekked the last ever Oxfam.

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Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Thousands turned away as legal centre is starved of federal funds...

‘Double our cash’

By Mikayla van Loon

For nearly a decade, Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC) has gone without a funding increase from the Federal government.

Now the collective body for community legal centres is calling for this to be adjusted in the upcoming May budget review.

ECLC chief executive officer Michael Smith said for essential legal support to be provided to residents in the outer east at either low cost or free, funding needs to double.

“We’d hope they would double the money for our core work. It wouldn’t be a lot of money for them but it’ll be a huge change for us,” he said.

The funding shortfall, while Mr Smith said ECLC will always do what they can to provide the best outcome for clients, has meant the team has had to turn people away or refer them on to other resources because the staff capacity just isn’t available. Hundreds, if not thousands, are turned away every year.

“It’s stressful for the team and it’s stressful for the clients who we really want to help,” he said.

With majority of ECLC’s workload revolving around family violence, and with it an ever increasing demand on community legal services, Mr Smith said funding must reflect that growing rate of inquiry.

“This is really, really urgent, and we need to make the community aware of how important this is,” he said.

With the National Legal Assistance Partner-

ship (NLAP) also under review, Mr Smith said he is hopeful that final report will guide the Federal Government on what funding is required now and long term to ensure vulnerable people can continue accessing essential support as soon as possible.

“With things like family violence, if people don’t get help early on, it creates huge issues later on, and the problems just grow and the stress builds and affects their mental health and their family situation,” Mr Smith said.

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Train line mystery

By Tanya Steele

An undisclosed Belgrave train line ‘‘incident’’ has sparked an investigation by the National Safety Regulator.

The train line near Upper Ferntree Gully had an ‘‘operational incident’’ on Sunday, 25 February that triggered replacement buses for an hour, suspending normal train operation along that section of the line.

Metro Trains confirmed the incident occurred at 10am that morning and said that trains started operating as normal at approximately 11am.

A Metro Trains spokesperson said: “Safety is our number one priority.

“We will not compromise on the safety of our staff and passengers.”

Metro Trains also confirmed that they and the regulators are investigating the incident and ‘will assist as necessary.’

Senior Manager Ross Stargatt from the Office of the National Saftey Regulator (ONRSR) said investigations undertaken by the ONRSR focus on determining whether or not there has been a breach of Australia’s Rail Safety National Law, by examining the processes and procedures rail operators have in place to manage the safety risks associated with their operations.

“In this case, ONRSR has taken initial steps to satisfy itself that there are no systemic and immediate risks to rail safety as a result of this incident,” he said.

“A

“It would not be appropriate to comment further while investigations are under way,” the Metro Trains spokesperson said.

Attempted shop heist leaves staff shaken

By Tanya Steele

Staff

at

the Ferntree Gully IGA were the target of an alleged theft and assault by a group of teenagers last week.

The encounter left the staff “shaken” after the incident and police have laid a number charges against the four minors.

Officers have been told a group of teenagers attended the supermarket on Station Street, Ferntree Gully, just before 5.30pm on 7 March.

Police said it is believed the group allegedly attempted to steal items from the business before one of the teenagers threatened a worker with a weapon.

Joel Wong was working in the IGA on Thursday 7 March when the group of teens entered the store and said his colleague working on the register called out to him when she noticed two girls acting weird and looking like they were trying to pinch lollies.

“I quickly came up to the open area and saw that a young lady was trying to reach a bottle of spirits behind the counter,” he said.

MrWong said his first thought was to stop her and check the person’s ID because ‘she looked young”.

As Mr Wong reached the liquor section of the store he alleged that “a man behind me surprised me by putting a headlock on me”.

“He grabbed me with an arm over my neck,” he said.

Mr Wong said he tried to tell the group not to touch the items behind the counter and asked them to present their ID.

He alleges that he and the group of teens were then involved in “tug of war” over the alcohol bottle as he grabbed it and “held on to it.

Mr Wong claims one of the teens was

holding a knife but dropped it after being knocked over in the struggle and that he was hit several times during the incident.

“I know they’re minor so I don’t hit back, I only used self-defence and blocked,” he said.

“I didn’t touch them, I just held on to the bottle.”

Police investigators said they believe the group fled the scene on foot, before boarding a nearby train.

Officers arrested the group a short time later in Boronia and seized a machete.

A 16 year old Beerwah girl has been charged with affray, assault in company, unlawful assault and attempted theft. She was bailed to appear at a children’s court at a later date.

A 16 year old Croydon boy and a 14 year old Wantirna girl were released pending summons and a 15 year old Hallam girl was released pending further enquiries.

Mr Wong and his colleague are shaken from their encounter and said they are much more wary of teenagers entering the store now.

“All of them have been caught and no one’s injured,” Mr Wong said.

IN BRIEF

Police investigation over the death of a Belgrave man

Police are investigating the death of a man in Belgrave on Sunday afternoon, 10 March.

It is believed two men got into an argument at a property on Belgrave-Gembrook Road about 4.30pm.

A 35-year-old Belgrave man died at the scene.

A 30-year-old Belgrave man was interviewed and has been released pending further enquiries. The exact circumstances surrounding the man’s death are yet to be determined.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.

au

Over 7000 BMWs recalled

7168 BMW 520i, 740i, i5, i7, iX1, X1, X5, X6, X7, XM cars made between 2022 and 2023 have been recalled due to an issue with the braking system.

Due to a manufacturing defect, signal interference may occur within the electronics of the brake system. If this occurs, a higher pedal force may be required for braking.

The anti-lock braking system and dynamic stability control will not be available.

If this occurred, drivers would be alerted by the brake warning light in the instrument cluster and a message will appear on the central display.

The vehicle remains controllable; however, a higher pedal force may be required for braking and in certain conditions, braking distance may be extended.

A reduction in braking performance could increase the risk of an accident resulting in injury to the vehicle occupants, pedestrians, and other road users.

If a warning message is displayed on the central display, drivers should follow the instructions provided and promptly contact their nearest BMW Dealer.

Owners of affected vehicles will receive written communication from BMW Australia.

When the necessary parts are available, all vehicle owners will be asked to bring their vehicle to a BMW dealership to have the electronic brake system controller replaced at no cost.

Comsol wall chargers recalled

Five different wall chargers produced by Comsol Pty Ltd and sold at Officeworks have been recalled due to their potential to break.

The wall plug of any of the affected chargers can break off the main body of the charger exposing the internal wires, creating a risk of serious injury or death from an electric shock or electrocution.

The affected products are the: Comsol 4 Port USBWall Charger with USB-C 24WWhite, Comsol 4 Port USB Wall Charger 4.5A, Comsol 65W 3 Port USB-A/USB-C Laptop GaN Wall Charger, Comsol 20W Dual Port USB Wall Charger, Keji USB dual port wall charger 2.4A and the Comsol 20W USB -C Wall Charger.

Consumers should stop using the charger immediately and should return the charger to their nearest Officeworks store to receive a refund.

For more information, consumers can visit an Officeworks store or contact Officeworks on

1300 633 423 or www.officeworks.com.au

244 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville, 3777

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Tel: 5957 3700

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Email: advertising@mailcommunity.com.au

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Managing

Staffwereleftshakenafterthealleged incident. Picture:TANYASTEELE

formal investigation has been initiated and as such ONRSR can make no further comment at this time.”

TrainsontheBelgravelineweresuspendedforanhour. Picture:TANYASTEELE

Thousands turned away

By Mikayla van Loon

Turning people away from accessing essential legal support has become the reality for community legal services in the outer east as funding hasn’t kept pace with demand.

After a decade of minimal funding increases, community legal services are urging the Federal Government to make some significant changes in the upcoming budget.

Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC) chief executive officer Michael Smith said funding has always been a struggle for community legal services but recent years have proved the most challenging.

“The funding Eastern Community Legal Centre is getting from the Federal Government hasn’t really changed in about 10 years,” he said.

“We’re not really getting indexation and nothing’s matched the growth in the issues we’re seeing from the community.”

Community Legal Centres Australia has put forward a minimum of a $124 million increase to current funding in its 2024 budget submission, a figure Mr Smith said he believes would accommodate the growing demand of services.

“We would have hoped that our funding from the Federal Government would double. We’re only getting about $600,000 from their federal money.

“So we’d hope they would double the money for our core work. It wouldn’t be a lot of money for them but it’ll be a huge change for us.”

The shortfall impact has meant ECLC has had to turn away hundreds, if not thousands, of people every year due to a lack of staff capacity.

“We’ve just got huge demand across our services. A lot of our work is in family violence. We’re helping women in particular, who are desperate for assistance with legal help for things like intervention orders, sometimes family law and children’s issues,” Mr Smith said.

“We’re helping people with infringements and local law issues, people with employment issues and a whole range of other things too but we’re having to turn people away because we haven’t got capacity with our staff.”

Last year, Mr Smith said some contract staff members had to be put off, yet again reducing the ability to help provide legal support to those who need it.

“It’s stressful for the team and it’s stressful for the clients who we really want to help. We have a fantastic intake team that takes the call, tries to prioritise which clients should get the help from our staff and which clients might be referred somewhere else.

“So when they have to tell people we can’t give them an appointment with a lawyer that they really need because we haven’t got the capacity, that’s pretty tough.”

Mr Smith said an example of the funding models needing to be more flexible and adaptable has been post the 2021 storms that hit the Yarra Ranges and the most recent storm event this year.

“When the storms happened in 2021, we did eventually get some funding to provide some more support around the storm’s work and that funding ran for two years so it has just run out.

“The staff we had with the extra money for that storm response in the Dandenong Ranges, their funding has just finished. We will be able to adapt to respond with the limited resources we have but if the demand is large, it’s going to be hard to meet that.

“It does show that the funding models need to adapt to have more flexibility and agility because if a big event happens, you can’t wait months for the government to get its act together before you put the extra resources on the ground.

“So we’ll always respond straight away but it is hard when your funding is not very flexible.”

The demand post the February storms has

been “fairly limited so far” for ECLC but Mr Smith said sometimes it does take time for people to understand the legal needs they may have, especially when it comes to insurance.

While ECLC hasn’t experienced this yet, Mr Smith said other organisations and people on the ground have heard of many cases of family violence post storms as well, meaning more people may inquire about legal help.

“We know from previous experience with the storms in theYarra Ranges about two years ago, that’s an issue and even back to the bushfires of 2009,” he said.

“We know when these major disasters happen, it affects families in lots of complex ways and things like family violence can get a lot worse in those situations, too.

“Sadly, about 80 per cent of our staff’s work is related to family violence but it does continue to rise when these things happen.”

Pushing for increased funding, Mr Smith said, is not only about the immediacy of helping people now but in the long term as more and more people seek support.

“This is really, really urgent, and we need to make the community aware of how important this is.

“I think people often aren’t aware of what their community legal centres are doing and then also, they don’t recognise their need for legal help until they really need it.”

The National Legal Assistance Partnership (NLAP) review currently sits with the Attorney General in the lead up to the May budget and the adoption of a new NLAP in June 2025.

Anyone requiring legal assistance for storm recovery can find information here, eclc.org. au/wp-content/uploads/Disaster-RecoveryLegal-Help.pdf

Community called on to report illegal firearm usage

By Mikayla van Loon

With thousands of firearms still estimated to be held illegally, Victoria Police and Crime Stoppers are calling on people to speak up to help remove these weapons from the community.

For more regional and farmland areas like those in the Yarra Ranges, Crime Stoppers chief executive officer Stella Smith said even ensuring registered firearms are secured is important.

“We know that farming communities are targeted because there’s a likelihood that there will be guns on a property,” she said.

“So they are a target for criminals. The risk is if the firearms are not secured properly, that a criminal will take them and use them to do harm in the community or to commit further crimes.”

Ms Smith said the risk not only lies with the potential harm to people that could be caused if a property is targeted for a firearm but the link that firearm carries.

“If they take that firearm and use it to commit a crime, and it’s traced back to you, then you’re now answerable to the police,” she said.

Ownership of a gun requires the careful storing of the firearm and its parts under the firearms licensing and registration legislation, with the easiest way to do so being a gun safe.

Ms Smith said one thing she did also want to make clear “if it’s unregistered, it’s illegal”.

“Any unregistered firearm is an illegal firearm. You can be charged for holding it or you will be likely to be charged for holding onto it.

“The permanent national amnesty was introduced in July 2021. So there is the option to surrender unregistered or in some cases unwanted firearms, so they may be registered to the person who doesn’t want them anymore.”

The amnesty allows someone to surrender a firearm and/or its parts to the police or a licensed firearms dealer without prosecution and no questions asked of the person’s identity.

Should someone wish to surrender a gun, Ms Smith said it is always a good idea to call

police ahead of doing so “because the last thing we want is anybody approaching a police station or driving around with a gun”.

It is estimated that 200,000 illegal firearms are still present in the community.

Last year, over 5000 firearm related incidents occurred according to the Crime Statistics Agency.

Crime Stoppers took over 1800 reports relating to the concern of firearms which were shared with Victoria Police to investigate further.

“We often receive reports at Crime Stop-

pers where the person isn’t 100 per cent sure, they’ve got a sense that something isn’t right.

“And that’s okay.That’s what we’re here for. We’re here for the community. So if you have information, I’d encourage you to come forward and report it to Crime Stoppers.”

The most recent joint campaign from both Crime Stoppers and police asks the community to ‘say something before it’s too late’.

Having seized more than 1,500 illegal firearms from criminals in 2023, Victoria Police Detective Superintendent Jason Kelly said any and all reports about suspected illegal

activity makes a difference in keeping the community safe.

“We understand the community’s concern when it comes to gun-related violence, and we are taking strong action to target those responsible and prevent further harm,” he said.

Making a report to Crime Stoppers is anonymous either via the website or calling 1800 333 000.

“This is not about who you are. We’re really after the information about where that gun is located,” Ms Smith said.

Victoria Police Superintendent Jason Kelly with Crime Stoppers Victoria representative Catherine Palermo. Picture: SUPPLIED

Eastern Community Legal Centre’s chief executive officer Michael Smith is urging the Federal Government to increase funding in the budget for CLCs. Picture: ON FILE

THE IGET IT , I THINK BIT

Lose yourself at one of Victoria’s renowned galleries or artist workshops. You’ll find plenty to your taste – or not. And that’s the fun of it.

Get curious at cultural institutions like Bendigo Art Gallery.

VISITVICTORIA.COM

Good uptake for screening

Data reveals people in the outer-east of Melbourne have outperformed the state’s average in participating in the National Cervical Screening Program.

Cancer Council Victoria has launched a new campaign to increase awareness of the importance of regular cervical screening and the option to self-collect your test.

According to AIHW data, more than 72 per cent of people in Knox and Yarra Ranges have participated in the National Cervical Screening Program, while Victoria’s average is sitting at 69 per cent.

The ‘In Your Hands’ campaign data shows more than 200 Victorians were diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2022, with more than 1000 cases diagnosed in the five years of 2018 to 2022.

A Cervical Screening Test is the best way to prevent cervical cancer and is recommended every five years for women and people with a cervix aged 25-74 under the National Cervical Screening Program.

Yet, data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows around one in three eligible Victorians are still not participating in this life-saving test.

Cancer Council Victoria Screening, Early Detection and Immunisation head Kate Broun said she hopes the campaign encourages eligible women and people with a cervix to make cervical screening a priority.

“The Cervical Screening Test is unique in that it can find people at risk of cervical cancer before it even starts to develop. It does this by looking for the very common virus that causes almost all cases of cervical cancer, human papillomavirus or HPV,” she said.

“By participating in cervical screening, we can find the HPV infection and treat any cervical cell changes it may cause before they may develop into cancer. This is why it’s so important that everyone who is eligible does the test

as soon as they are due and doesn’t put it off.” Health minister Mary-Anne Thomas is urging Victorian women to keep up to date with their cervical cancer screenings.

“With self-collection making it easier and less daunting, we are urging all women to en-

sure they keep up with their five-yearly cervical screening – the earlier the diagnosis and access to treatment, the better chance of survival,” she said.

In July 2022, the option to self-collect your Cervical Screening Test using a small swab was

expanded from limited eligibility criteria, to be made available to everyone eligible for cervical screening, something that Ms Broun said has been a significant step in addressing some of the barriers preventing people from participating.

DatashowsoneinthreeeligibleVictoriansarestillnotparticipatinginthelife-savingcervicaltest.

Picture:UNSPLASH

Grant secures men’s shed

By Gabriella Vukman

A new men’s shed is set to grace the Hills community thanks to a grant of almost $40,000 from the State Government.

Mountain District Learning Centre in Ferntree Gully will be the site for the transformation. The old garage behind the centre will be fully refurbished to comfortably host the men’s shed.

Janet Claringbold from the Mountain District Learning Centre (MDLC) said, “the grant opportunity was for established and new men’s sheds so we decided to put in an application for a new men’s shed and we just created the name Mountain District Men’s shed because it will be located on our site.”

“We want to convert the garage that is on our property at the back of MDLC and convert the garage into a men’s shed,” Ms Claringbold said.

“It will need to be lined and the floors filled and new windows put in and that kind of thing to make it a usable space for people to undertake activities.”

Announced on Thursday 29 February, the MDLC has organised a meeting to sort out what happens from here.

“We identified that there is a need for more opportunities to connect and release boredom for men living in Ferntree Gully who may be lonely or feel socially isolated,” Ms Claringbold said.

“In partnership with the hills op shop, we are running a men’s chat group and we get a lot of referrals for social activities for men so we are really pleased to have this grant because that will help address the increasing issue of loneliness amongst men.”

“We already have a volunteer program running in our community garden and we have a few men attending that so we thought it was a nice compliment to the volunteer program to run additional programs that are particularly designed for men,” Ms Claringbold said.

At this men’s shed it will be up to participants to choose the shed’s activities.

Ms Claringbold said, “it won’t be the type of men’s shed where they will be focusing solely on woodwork or carpentry or mechanics or things like that, it’s more about social connection, than about producing items like some of the other men’s sheds do.”

“They might do activities like card playing and craft. They might do some woodwork projects if they want to but that is up to the

men to decide,” Ms Claringbold said.

“The funding came through the state government and we were advised that there was a grant opportunity.”

The Mountain District Men’s Shed has received $37,377 from the state government.

Ms Claringbold said, “that is half of the funding we need to complete the project. We will find the other half from our own resources.”

“We want to get started on it straight away,”

Ms Claringbold said.

“As soon as we receive the funds we can start the project.”

Ms Claringbold hopes that the program will be up and running by the end of this year.

“We are so happy to receive this grant because we know there is a big need for places for men to connect and we are really pleased to have the opportunity to do it,” Ms Claringbold.

“We had the space but it just wasn’t suitable for people to meet in.”

A grand finale to a 25-year journey to end poverty

More than 4,000 people embarked on the final Oxfam Trailwalker event in Melbourne last weekend, as the event came to an end after 25 years in Australia.

The endurance event saw more than 1000 teams take on either a 33km, 57km or 87km course over 40 hours, as they raised funds for Oxfam’s work tackling poverty and inequality in communities around the world.

Since its launch in 1999, around 100,000 Australians in various capital cities have tackled the challenge, collectively raising more than $100 million for the anti-poverty organisation.

The trail wended its way through the Dandenong Ranges – including Silvan Reservoir Park, Mount Dandenong, and the iconic 1000 steps – and as of Monday 26 February more than $2 million had been raised.

Matt Parker, who was born with Cerebral Palsy and undertook the 57km trail using a frame to balance that was supported by his teammates at the front and back, was excited to be undertaking the challenge with his group of close friends for a third and final time.

“We have known each other for thirty years after getting involved with Lord Somers Camp. The boys asked me if I would do the Oxfam Trailwalker with them seven years ago - something I would never have thought possible!We did it twice and loved it - all 38 hours of it,” he said.

“With the last ever happening, we are back again, just a group of mates bringing out the best in one another and having a lot of laughs down that familiar path.”

Stefan Krakowiak completed his ninth Trailwalker event, and credits hiking to turning his life around.

“Over the years, Oxfam Trailwalker has helped me to build really strong connections within the community. It has given me purpose whilst keeping me I great physical and mental shape.”

The decision to conclude Oxfam Trailwalker was announced in September 2023,

with the organisation citing the importance of evolving approaches to addressing poverty and inequality.

Oxfam Australia chief executive Lyn Morgain reflected on the impact Trailwalker has had on tackling poverty and inequality.

“As Melbourne [concludes] final Oxfam

Trailwalker, we are deeply grateful to everyone who were part of this journey, and all those who have played a part in Trailwalker’s long history in Australia,” she said.

“For 25 years, we have been blown away by the unwavering support for the fight to end poverty, and this year is no exception,

There were cheers and smiles as Oxfam Trailwalker participants passed through Menzies Creek on Friday 1 March. 392498

Teams came prepared for all conditions to tackle the gruelling hiking challenge. 392498

with participants, volunteers, and community members joining forces to make the final edition a resounding success.

“Trailwalker may be at its end but the spirit of solidarity and the commitment to creating a more just and equitable world will endure.”

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Some even took to running parts of the trail to give them a head start. 392498

The old Garage at the back of the Mountain District Learning Centre is set to become a new men’s shed thanks to a $37,377 grant.

Picture: JANET CLARINGBOLD

Promise of music-plus

By Tanya Steele

A music variety and performance show with something for everyone is coming to Upwey’s Dandenong Ranges Music Council.

Nature and the Sacred will host the Variety Charity Concert on Sunday 7 April at 2pm, with two hours of performances scheduled.

Organiser, composer and performer Jacqui Rutten said the event will feature mainly local artists, with music and more including new original works by Barbra Hornung, Celeste Willoughby and Jacqui Rutten.

Mary Knights-Rutten , Ms Rutten’s mother will perform piano, Kelsy de Prada the flute, Danielle Zuccala with Jo-Anne Mileto, artist Catkincat will perform dance, Sean Duguid is to feature on trumpet with Mieke Florisson on piano and the Oakleigh Brass band are making a first time appearance.

There will also be music by Herbert. L. Clarke, Britten, Mozart and Schubert and others.

“We got younger artists, older artists and we’ve also got a lovely mezzo soprano from Melbourne,” she said.

Mezzo Soprano Danielle Zuccala was a student of the well known opera, music theatre and concert performer, Suzanne Johnston.

Ms Rutten said Sacred Stage has put on many concerts throughout the years in the hills and that they have been for charity, mainly for shelter for women and children experiencing homelessness.

“This one’s going to Hills itself to Dandenong Ranges emergency relief service –they’re a service that really helped a lot of people who are going through a bit of a difficult time up

Discover the Hills' Hidden Gems: Dandenong Ranges Open Studios 2024

Embark on an artistic journey amidst the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, where creativity blooms like the vibrant autumnal flora. In its 21st year, the Dandenong Ranges Open Studios Weekend invites you to witness the magic of 44 studios unveiling their treasures over two weekends in April 2024. This cultural celebration is not just an event; it’s an immersive experience where art comes alive, echoing the passion and diversity of over 50 participating artists. For two decades, this event has been a catalyst for emerging talents and a canvas for established practitioners to redefine the boundaries of art. Traditionalists, avant-garde creators, musicians, and craft artisans will converge, creating a kaleidoscope of artistic expressions that defy convention. The hills resonate with a symphony of creativity, from painters and sculptors to musicians, goldsmiths, and 3D model makers.

Returning artists, like Jessie Yvette Journoud-Ryan, share stories of how Open Studios has become the heartbeat of their artistic journey. “This event has reignited my creative spark, given my work an audience, validated my practice, and has been an incentive to create year after year,” says Jessie, encapsulating the profound impact this event has on the local artistic community.

One highlight is the GLIMPSE group exhibition at Burrinja Gallery, offering a window into the artists’ inner worlds. From fleeting moments to hidden secrets, the exhibition delves into personal interpretations, providing a tantalizing taste of the diverse talent waiting to be discovered in the hills.

The Open Studios Weekends on April 13-14 and 20-21, 2024, from 10 am to 5 pm, promise a unique opportunity to explore the studios, engage with artists, and witness the creative process firsthand. Be part of this artistic tapestry, where every studio visit is a glimpse into the soul of the hills. Let curiosity guide you through the Dandenong Ranges in full autumn splendour, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend.

Emma Jennings, a long-time participant in previous Open Studios events, reflects on its significance, stating, “There is no other organization in the Dandenong Ranges that provides support or opportunities for artists. It’s a platform for us to showcase the extraordinary talent, dedication, and passion of our local artists.”

Join us at Burrinja Gallery as we launch this year’s group exhibition, GLIMPSE, and the 2024 Dandenong Ranges Open Studios program on Thursday, March 14, at 7 pm.

Learn more: openstudios.org.au

here.,” she said.

In its 16th year, the event will feature the Oakleigh Brass brand for the first time.

“I thought it’d be great to have a brass band and they said yes, I was really thrilled because they a very good band, led by someone from Melbourne University,” she said.

At the moment Ms Rutten thinks she will play piano on the day.

“It will be an improvisation based on just a little bird call that I jotted down one day,” she said.

“And Mary Knights-Rutten is hopefully playing a piece that I composed called ‘Warburton River’.

The concert promises a run time of around two hours, including an interval and time to draw the raffle planned for the day.

Southern Dandenongs community nursery has contributed for the raffle and Ms Rutten said the group had enjoyed the last concert and offered to donate a donated a plant voucher.

All profits will be donated to go towards the Dandenong Ranges emergency relief service.

Sunday 7 April, 2 pm at the Dandenong Ranges Music Council, Burwood Highway, Upwey For more information (bookings for the event are preferred) call or email 0455 044 764 info@sacredstage.com.au

Tickets are 20 dollars or donation at the door, children are free.

Ms Rutten said the artists have all chosen works towards the concept of ‘nature and sacred’ and that it is an ‘enjoyable’ theme.

“There is really a lot of talent in this concert,” she said.

15.03-28.04.24|BURRINJAGALLERY

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10.04.24

.AN UNCONSIOUS VOICE AIMEE McCALLUM

HOSTED BY MIKE GOLDSTEIN WITH SPECIAL GUESTS

KUSS, CLAIRE HOOPER, DANIEL FERNANDES (INDIA), & LUKA MULLER

@ 7.30PM | BURRINJA THEATRE

Juet Sculpture Collective, Photo Cathy Ronalds

Barbara Hornung will be performing something she has specially composed for the concert. Picture: SUPPLIED

Friends in deed for creek

By Gabriella Vukman

The First Friends of Dandenong Creek group (FFODC) hosted a rubbish clean-up on Sunday in efforts to protect the creek’s delicate ecosystem.

The Dandenong Creek runs all the way from Dandenong South, through Kilsyth South and The Basin to Olinda and is the home to various species including the endangered Leadbeater’s possum.

President of the FFODC Anthony Bigelow said, “we had 35 volunteers on Sunday which is actually a pretty good number seeing as rubbish collection is not the top thing people want to do.”

“I extend a big thank you to our partners The Bliss and Wisdom Society, which is a local Buddhist group who came along and helped out.”

“Thankfully, we didn’t actually collect that much rubbish which is a good indication that there wasn’t or hasn’t been as much rubbish being washed down through the creek,” Mr Bigelow said.

The group runs on volunteers and aims to protect the creek and surrounding environment.

Mr Bigelow said, “on a normal year-to-year basis we generally plant around 10-15,000 plants, all local and Indigenous to the area. “

“We run planting events, a national tree day

event, a world environment day event all with the intention of returning re-vegetation to the area,” Mr Bigelow said.

The group also installs nesting boxes for a range of species.

“We’ve rolled out over 200 boxes for sugar gliders and we have done the same thing for powerful owls which is another endangered species in the area,” Mr Bigelow said.

“We try to support the local flora and fauna and ask as many people as we can to come along and be a part of that.”

Anyone can volunteer and there are a wide and inclusive range of ways in which people can be a part of the group.

Mr Bigelow said, “there’s the traditional

stuff you can do like help out on the planting days or structured survey days or people can help by putting out nest boxes.”

“There is always stuff you can do behind the scenes to support the organisation.”

“Volunteers can either check out our Facebook page or if they’d like to be across things in a more structured way, reach out to us through our website and there is a contact page there and a newsletter,” Mr Bigelow said.

The group started 25 years ago as a mechanism for advocating for the local environment when Melbourne water felled trees in the area, triggering much disgruntlement from the surrounding communities.

FFODC website: ffdc.org.au

Volunteers hit the Dandenong Creek last week to clear rubbish from the banks and surrounding bushland.

Pictures: FIRST FRIENDS OF DANDENONG CREEK Filling bags of rubbish and pulling discarded bikes and trollies from around the creek made for a successful day.

CATHOLIC EDUCATION WEEK

Come along for a look

Hi, my name is Nick Frederiksen, and I am exceptionally fortunate to be the newly appointed Principal of St Paul’s Monbulk.

Although only a few weeks into the role, it is clearly evident that it is a wonderful and welcoming community.

Here is a little about myself

My wife Kate and I have three children: Grace (5), George (2), and Adeline (11 months). Grace started her Prep journey this year. It has been a great experience being on the other side of the fence, and I appreciate the anxiety of a child beginning their time at primary school.

Previously, I have been a teacher for 16 years, with the last seven years as Deputy Principal of St Joseph’s Boronia. I was fortunate to be appointed as Acting Principal of Sacred HeartYea for the second half of last year, giving me an insight into the important role of principal. At Boronia, I also held the positions of 1/2 classroom teacher, Religious Education Leader, Teaching and Learning Leader, ICT leader, and STEM teacher, covering many areas I am passionate about.

Between my degrees, I have also run campsites in France, the UK, and Austria.

I love sports and currently volunteer at the Essendon Football Club (which might not endear me to some families) with the VFLW and AFLW teams. I also drive players and support staff for the Australian Open Tennis tournament. I love to volunteer, and although not currently volunteering with camps, I have spent most of my adult life running camps for children and adults with a disability through Melbourne Legacy and Oz Child/Interchange, another area I am greatly passionate about.

Although I have only been with the St Paul’s Community for the past few weeks, I feel incredibly grateful for the warm welcome I have received. I love the fact that I already consider

myself part of this great community.

At St Paul’s, our children are at the centre of everything we do. We are strongly committed to providing a safe and harmonious school environment where successful relationships thrive. The strength lies in the close partnerships between students, staff, parents, and the wider community, which is highly valued by us all. We promote and develop positive and respectful relationships. The school motto is: ‘Love One Another,’ and we act this out in a caring, cooperative, purposeful and success-

A new education vision

Students in Catholic schools will benefit significantly from a change in how reading, writing and mathematics are taught in Melbourne classrooms.

In February, Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) launched its Flourishing Learners position statement, Vision for Instruction, which embeds a refreshed and system-wide approach to achieving teaching and learning excellence.

“Our newly released Vision for Instruction strengthens our commitment to providing an outstanding education for all our students across the Archdiocese of Melbourne,” MACS executive director Dr Edward Simons said.

“It is the culmination of years of global research on how students learn best, along with studies and analysis of the most successful teaching methods, developed with input from teachers in our own schools.

“OurVision for Instruction has twin fundamental goals: excellence and equity. As a key part of our MACS 2030 strategy, this approach will help us achieve our vision that every student is inspired and enabled to flourish and enrich the world, regardless of their background or circumstances.”

Dr Simons said years of declining performance in OECD PISA results meant that

outdated approaches to teaching and learning need to change. The evidence now at hand supports explicit instruction methods as the best way of teaching children the knowledge they need to flourish.

“These measures have clearly shown us that our education systems can be much more effective at educating our children.

“The 21st century skills our children need to have, including social skills, are fundamentally reliant on a solid foundation of literacy and numeracy.

‘‘That’s why we’ve formalised our pedagogical approach to act as a guiding beacon to our staff, and provide the clarity and resources they need to promote excellence and equity in all our schools.”

Director of Learning and Regional Services, Dr Mary Oski said that MACS teachers and leaders will be supported to implement Vision for Instruction.

“Our educators are dedicated to providing all students with fundamental literacy and numeracy skills, ensuring their active engagement in society while fostering lifelong learning, which is why MACS is committed to providing teachers with the highest quality knowledge-rich curriculum and evidence-based teaching practices.”

MACS is the largest Catholic education services provider in Australia, educating

oriented environment.

At St. Paul’s, we use an explicit instruction approach to Learning and Teaching in Literacy and Numeracy with a strong focus on developing core skills. Explicit instruction centres around key components – warm up/ daily review, teacher instruction, guided and independent practice - as students are shown what to do and how to do it and provided with multiple opportunities to experience and celebrate success.

The school strives to engage all students

and community members to be 21st-century learners by effectively using learning technologies and Google Apps for Education (G.A.F.E) through 1-1 devices (Chromebooks and iPads). Furthermore, the school has an Inquiry learning focus in learning areas of the curriculum, including History, Science, Geography, P.E and Health, Arts, Technologies and a range of General Capabilities.

Please call Helen in our office on (03) 9756 7201 and book in for a school tour. I would love to show you around!

A change to how reading, writing and mathematics is taught in Catholic schools has been proposed in the Vision for Insstruction.

Picture: UNSPLASH

New Principal Nick Frederiksen wants to welcome pre-schoolers for a taste of what prep will be like at St Paul’s Primary School. Picture: SUPPLIED

Knox Library opens, space for all, and don’t we love it?

By Tanya Steele

The outer east community has shown up in droves to visit the new library that has opened in Westfield Knox.

The much anticipated Knox Library has opened to the public on Friday 8 March with over 1000 people through the doors by lunchtime.

Opening at 9am, the new $5.4M library at Westfield Knox is twice the size of the old library, occupying about 2,000 square metres within the old Myer store on Level 3.

Library Branch Manager Alan Sewell said he was excited about the opening and it feels more real now that the public are actually in the space.

“It hasn’t sunk in it,” he said.

“It’s only when you see the public coming through the doors that you can go - yes it’s a library.”

Staff and public alike were all smiles as they investigated the new premises on the day, with one member of the public already taking a quick power nap in one of the study booths.

The new space has a modern design, with the word ‘Ngarrgoo’ which means ‘knowledge’ in Woi-Wurrung printed on the front door panels.

Indigenous artwork in the library’s design is by Kamara Morgan, a proud Yorta-Yorta, Gunai-Kurnai, Dja Dja Wurrung, Boonwurrung, Taungurung, and Baraparapa Aboriginal artist.

The artwork reflects Knox Library’s link to Country and celebrates the library as a meeting place and the artwork is on display further into the space.

Knox Mayor, Councillor Jude Dwight said having the library inside the shopping centre made it even more accessible for the community.

“As well as an impressive collection of books, DVDs and other items to borrow, and many purpose-built areas for community

use, the library has a dedicated space for young people called The Youth Hive, a space for children, a garden room, computer area, lounges, study booths and meeting rooms,” she said.

“Knox Library is already one of our busiest branches and we expect the new library will attract even more community members.”

The Knox library was previously in a temporary space, still at Westfield but not attached and was situated near the Ozone area.

The library also shares its space with the Youth services and Youth Hive for Knox and the staff hope this will help encourage teens into the library

“We’re really keen on working together to attract and engage with young people. They

can use the space how they want to,” Mr Sewell said.

Eastern Library corporate manager of customer experience Sarah Hopkins said the new premises were designed to be a“bit of an adventure”.

“People come with different needs and requirements and we wanted to be able to accommodate that without people being on top of each other,” she said.

The library has several different zones and spaces for different needs, from a meeting area to a secret garden space.

“It’s a large space and we have many different rooms that are versatile for the public to use,” Mr Sewell said.

“We have lots of meeting spaces for peo-

ple to do conferencing, quiet spaces for people with sensory needs and we have a studio space.”

Mr Sewell said he is most excited by some of the larger spaces, which will allow for larger events to be run within the building.

“We have bigger programming rooms for bigger author talks and bigger presentations,” he said.

Ms Hopkins said the new library will be part of the shopping centre and the community.

“People are already here, buying groceries – It’s all just part of your everyday life,” she said.

Healing with art’s power

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Belgrave resident Natasja Van Wyk, a former human rights lawyer from South Africa is now a full time quilting textile artist in the outer east of Melbourne.

For Mrs Van Wyk, quilting was a hobby due to her stressful job, textiles has become a coping mechanism for her panic attacks.

“It’s the way I get through day to day work, my art sparks joy,” she said.

During an annual art competition called, The Upwey Archies where artists submit portraits of local legends, she created a portrait of Belgrave’s local legend, Baba-Desi, using Baba-Desi’s clothes which was given to her by the legend himself.

The portrait won her the Community Favourite Award.

Mrs Van Wyk has been successful with her artwork, she’s had her work displayed in the Red Gallery in Fitzroy, Melbourne Convention Centre and she currently has her work in the Body of Empowerment Exhibition inYarraValley.

Mrs Van Wyk took a sabbatical and came to Australia with her husband and their then-five year old son to visit their family in the Dandenong Ranges.

Upon her visit, she told her husband she can see herself living in the hills and only to find out he was offered multiple jobs in Australia – which made the decision more certain.

She started life as a South African and worked there as a lawyer but stopped practicing in 2018, after two traumatic incidents that changed her life forever.

“I got attacked in the city by four males, while getting out of my car to go buy female sanitary products.”

“I had the equivalent of $5 on me, they held a knife to my throat, and they tried biting my wedding ring off my finger” Mrs Van Wyk said.

“I drove home, and that was the day I

couldn’t go to court any more.”

Her trauma intensified to a point where she couldn’t do things on her own.

Mrs Van Wyk finally took the courage to be out of the house again only to witness anther traumatic incident.

“I drove my son to school in the same week and we were in the middle of a taxi shootout, one of his friends got shot in the car in front of us and he died,” she said.

“I didn’t realise my reaction to witnessing a child dying in front of me was so normal.”

“I said to my husband we were so lucky today, we didn’t get killed.”

People often ask her if she left South Africa

because it’s a ‘terrible’ place.

“It’s not, in fact t’s a fantastic place but it’s the remains of institutionalised colonialism that is causing the problems in South Africa. And it is very close to my heart,” she said.

Leaving her hometown and her country was never an easy choice but when danger threatened her life, leaving it all behind became her only choice.

“I’ll probably never be able to return, I can’t go back and see my relatives and my friends.”

The hardest part for Mrs Van Wyk was leaving her clients behind – the vulnerable people she dedicated her life helping.

Australia quickly became safe haven for

and her family, she felt home until 6 months later when she got her first PTSD attack.

“I was driving my son to school when I saw a bus drove into a tree, it wasn’t even a big thing but I had the most disproportionate reaction you could ever imagine.”

“That day my husband was so glad that I was having this reaction, because my reaction to the shooting in South Africa was never normal,” she said. She recalls her response where she never cried, got angry or upset. The incidents still haunts her, but she’s getting the right help from a professional.

The artist became an Australian citizen last year and has never felt more at home.

“It was even more special because the friends I made through my art career were the people that granted me my citizenship certificate,” she said.

The self-taught textile artist said her artwork got her thinking about what she was missing as a kid and what she sees the youths are struggling with today.

“If it starts a conversation, even if it’s the wrong conversation, I feel my arts have been successful,” she said.

The colouful artwork isn’t just a healing method for MrsVanWyk but more importantly it’s her way of ‘normalising’ dressing up in all colours and styles, regardless of gender or age.

“I wanted children to be able to come to Burrinja and get dressed in any of the outfits.”

All the outfits made are one-size fits-all and are available in the Burrinja Cultural Centre in Upwey. “The way I’ve seen the kids interact with this installation has been absolutely amazing,” she said.

Mrs Van Wyk takes immense pride in what she creates and what she wears; it boosts her confidence. “I feel better when I’m wearing really fabulous clothes gives my body armour to go out into the world.”

Left to right: Branch Manager Alan Sewell, Eastern Libraries Customer Experience Sarah Hopkins and Knox Major Jude Wright.

Young Katie and parent Cameron checking out the kids zone.

Branch Manager Alan Sewell was excited on opening day and happy to have the public inside for the first time.

Pictures: TANYA STEELE

Belgrave textile artist holding her award-winning portrait of local legend, Baba-Desi.

Building community links

By Mikayla van Loon

Building a strong community fabric starts with a network of volunteers and a social place to gather.

That’s why Upwey-Belgrave RSL Sub-branch is hosting a family fun day and volunteer expo on Saturday 16 March.

Bringing together various groups and organisations for one day and in one place, RSL administration volunteer Kylie Arndt said it is about giving people options.

“We understand that in the current society people are feeling isolated and disengaged with their fellow community,” she said.

“We are a volunteer organisation, and so we know how hard it is to get volunteers. We’re really wanting to reach out and connect with the community wherever we can. We felt this was a great opportunity that we can create a forum for local community groups to come all together all in one place.”

Inviting the broader community to learn and engage, even for just an hour, with a local organisation Ms Arndt said “hopefully a beautiful relationship blossoms from that”.

With around 30 volunteer groups on the list for having a stall, Ms Arndt said there should be something for everyone, from wildlife rescue to SES, Rotary and Lions to the local choir.

“We’re really covering a huge area of where people can get involved no matter what part of their life they’re in.

“For young families we’ve got a couple of kinders and playgroups right up to Probus coming along for that older generation too.”

Opening the RSL up for a day as well, Ms Arndt said is about making people feel comfortable and as though the space is there for them.

“We’re really trying to turn the RSL into a community hub, a place where people can

come and make it really family friendly but a place where anybody can come and there will be somebody there who will be welcoming and inviting,” she said.

“Where new friendships are formed and people can reconnect back with others in their community.”

With an ageing group of members, welcoming families of ex-service personnel, service personnel and first responders is critical to the longevity of the RSL.

“We have a couple of young service members, but predominantly, they’re all over the age of 50. Probably most of them are over the age of 70. So now it is about trying to reach out to anybody and everybody.

“The RSL is now inclusive of first responders as well as the defence force. So it is letting them know we are there to support those younger veterans.

“We are there to support whatever needs they have, whether that be financial, emotional,

or just somebody to sit and have a chat with you for social interaction.” Ms Arndt said it is also important to recognise widows as part of that support offering, with social dance classes everyThursday night which is open to all ages and all abilities.

So take a moment from your Saturday and perhaps discover your next hobby, social group, activity or just meet some new people at the family day and volunteer expo.

Meet your next volunteer opportunity at the Upwey-Belgrave RSL family fun day and volunteer expo. 393561 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

A literal baptism of fire

The Ash Wednesday Bushfire Education Centre in Cockatoo is more than just a place archiving the past. The building lived through the fire 41 years ago as a shelter, standing today imbued with countless memories and as a testament to the community’s commitment to remember and learn from that fateful day. Journalist

COREY EVERITT spoke with Chairman of the Ash Wednesday Bushfire Education Centre committee, Graham Simpson about the experience of Ash Wednesday, the centre and the importance for all to know the history.

The centre on McBride Road, Cockatoo wasn’t originally purposed for what it is now. It was made in 1977 as a kindergarten. It’s a unique building, as a 12-sided Dodecagon with windows wrapping around in an almost 360 degree view out.

No one would expect that such a building would provide a perfectly frightening viewpoint for the more than 300 sheltering men, women and children to witness the relentless inferno that would engulf Cockatoo on the night of 16 February 1983.

Graham was not there that night, he was out fighting. He served as Captain of the Cockatoo Fire Brigade for 12 years.

On Ash Wednesday, he was only three months into the top job. In the centre, he walks over to the board documenting Cockatoo, pointing to a picture of himself at the time, noting his then full head of hair. He calls it, jokingly, his ‘baptism by fire’.

“I had got home from work, I could see the fires that had started on the day,” he said.

“I had a CFA radio in my car, so I could hear what was happening.

“I got around the roadblocks and I got home and there was nothing happening here.”

Many of the significant fires across Victoria and South Australia began through the day, Cockatoo was one of the last fires to start in the evening.

Cockatoo Fire Brigade’s major tanker was already deployed and sent to assist the fighting in Upper Beaconsfield by the time Graham was home where it was a short while later that a fire was reported in town.

“I called into the fire station, went home to see how the family was, did a bit of work around the house, sprinkler on the roof, that sort of stuff,” he said.

“We had a fire up here near Third Avenue, Bailey Road.

“We had the turn out, so I was down at the station, through a bit of gear in the back of the car, our little tanker went off.”

This job was a small fire, even though the brigades were down resources with only their small Ford F100 truck carrying a mere 600 litres of water, they put it out easily.

“We extinguished that, then I looked over intoWright Forest and there was this big plume of smoke coming out,” Graham said.

“I left the truck to finish with that little fire and went in there and had a little look and, yeah…it was raging.

“The radio was congested, something shocking, I called for more help and they had nothing to give me.

“Nothing we could do, with what equipment we had.”

Not only did they have little resources, but this started with a short time left before what would be known as the fateful wind change.

Ash Wednesday commemorates a day, but memories of it’s devastation were concentrated in mere moments as the strong northerly winds of the day were suddenly engulfed by gale from the South West, crashing through at well over 100kph.

This turned the fire into an all-consuming inferno that leveled towns in minutes, winds propelling it rapidly and fueling it to a temperature predicted to have been up to 2000 degrees celsius.

“We took a stand out on the road, at that stage the wind in Cockatoo, it was blowing from the north, but it wasn’t really bad and then the wind change came at about 9 o’clock,” Graham said.

“That’s what took it all down the hill through the forest, through the town.”

Seventy-five people died on Ash Wednesday, six of them in Cockatoo.

The kindergarten on McBride Street housed

I left the truck to finish with that little fire and went in there and had a little look and, yeah…it was raging.”

hundreds as a refuge. There was no power, it was crowded and hot with the only illumination being the wall of fire that looked to be quickly going their way.

“It was exactly the same as this, it had windows all around like this,” Graham said, surveying the view out to McBride Street and up to Bailey Road.

“The shop down the bottom of the hill caught fire.

“Then the old Cockatoo Hall was right across the road here where the cottages are, and then it caught fire so what are the people in here thinking.”

Once it was all settled, over 300 homes were destroyed in Cockatoo, over 1500 hectares of land were burnt.

Next was the recovery of what was left, Graham reflects on it with exhaustion.

“Months, months,” he said. “People living in caravans, it was a real low point at that time. A lot of people moved out and just didn’t rebuild.”

Remarkably, the kindergarten was untouched. The map of the precise areas of destruction in town show Cockatoo with a broad, sweeping path of destruction over the entire town.

Yet, there is a small sliver of untouched land, that slices from the northern boundary of the fire’s path to leave a slight separation in the destruction. In the very bottom of it sits the kindergarten.

Cockatoo would rebuild, as Upper Beaconsfield and all the other towns did. With a small group of residents who remained after the fire which grew smaller and smaller by the years.

The kindergarten continued, it was the stopping point for the visit of Princess Diana and Prince Charles who planted a tree which still stands tall by the entrance today.

Decades later, when the fire was history for most, rather than memory. The kindergarten moved out of the building after ongoing prob-

lems emerged with unrepaired damage to the now old structure.

By this time Cockatoo had stablised, its vacancy seemed as if the town had finally moved on from the fire, it no longer needed the shelter it once provided.

“This became vacant, it got vandalised, the big windows got broken. The kids got in, graffitied the joint, smashed holes in the walls, all that sort of stuff,” Graham said.

“Then the council made a decision in April 2011 that they were going to demolish it.

“That’s when all of this started.”

Cockatoo didn’t forget and were outraged at the demolition, the building had emerged as a monument, its collective appointment forced by the council’s intention to destroy it.

The building was already at a severe level of degradation, it was an uphill battle to save it, so they took an all or nothing shot.

“The community rallied, got a lot of media and there was a one line email to Heritage Victoria that said this should be heritage listed,” Graham explained.

“Mind you this was built in 1977, not 1877, but Heritage Victoria stepped in and said stop the demolition.”

Heritage Victoria investigated and ruled against its listing, but they left one last lifeline with the right to appeal.

“After eight weeks they decided it should be heritage listed,” Graham said.

“That was because it was used as a refuge during the fire and the community was so into saving it.

“It’s heritage listed for reason of being significant to the State of Victoria and it’s the first building ever to be listed on the heritage register under that category.”

The building, its land lined by its fence and the tree planted by Princess Diana and the now King is rendered untouchable by the effort of the Cockatoo and wider community

who remember its significance.

Next was figuring out what to do with it.The Cockatoo Memorial Committee, of which Graham was Chair, ran a survey of the community.

The top response was for the building to be restored as a place incorporating local history and AshWednesday, as well as a family-friendly gathering space.

With funding secured it was made into just that becoming the volunteer-run Ash Wednesday Bushfire Education Centre.

For the past decade the centre has been providing education on local history and Ash Wednesday to communities far and wide.

The committee involves many from beyond just Cockatoo, but many who were affected on the day or just wish to keep this important history and its lesson alive.

In 2023, the centre ran the 40 Anniversary commemoration service for Ash Wednesday. A large and successful event that served as a meeting point for all of CFA and the community to remember the tragic day.

The event won the committee an award from Cardinia Shire for Community Event of the Year in this year’s Australia Day Awards.

The centre opens on Sundays for free from 11am to 3pm, the main work of the committee is running talks from the centre.

Graham has given talks about Ash Wednesday to a variety of groups from Government agencies to schools. For many years natural disasters were part of the curriculum at local schools where Graham would be invited to speak.

Talks are still being run, with St Francis Xavier College soon making a visit to hear from Graham.

The committees want more and more to tell the story to people, particularly the next generation. Its importance has influenced many in Cockatoo and beyond and its memory should carry on to educate about bushfires, an ever present threat affecting people even now in Western Victoria.

It serves also to pass on the resilience of a community and the integral role it’s history plays.

To get in touch with the Ash Wednesday Bushfire Education Centre you can contact them at awbeccockatoo@gmail.com

Ash Wednesday Bushfire Education Centre committee members received the Community Event of the Year award from Cardinia Shire Council for their 40th commemoration of Ash Wednesday event.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Chairman of the Ash Wednesday Bushfire Education Centre committee Graham Simpson. 392021 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

In the education centre. 392021 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Bank a force for local good

This will not create any changes for our customers, but formally recognises the good we do

We are part of a group of businesses that exist to create a

After returning nearly $1 million of profits back into the Monbulk & District community, we are so proud of this recognition and look forward to supporting more community projects and initiatives for years to come.

The Community Bank really is a part of our local community and everyday we seek to strengthen, support and build our community by listening to the needs and wants of our town.

Our vision is to support not only our customers, but our local clubs, groups, schools and organisations. Community Bank Monbulk & District has been open and supporting the local community for over 12 years.

L-R: Assistant Branch Manager Bec Taylor and Senior Branch Manager Aimee Broekhorst. Picture: SUPPLIED

Mungovan whips up a cyclone of his own at Sooki

By Tanya Steele

Live music is coming back in spades to the hills, with an indie rock and pop artist recently giving local fans a taste of his latest single ‘Cyclone’.

NSW Musician Joe Mungovan joined as an opener at the Sooki Lounge in Belgrave on Thursday 29 March, launching new material and having a ball at the same time.

The artist and his band are part of a run of shows opening for ‘The Vanns’ on the Victorian leg of their regional tour over the next month.

Mungovan had not played at the Sooki Lounge before and said it ‘was a great time’

“We love it and we keep coming back for more, it’s great to support The Vanns as well as play our own shows and mix it up,” he said.

The new song ‘Cyclone’ is about “mass consumption, overstimulation and our society’s blindness and addiction to it”, Mungovan said.

“It’s about being overfed in all aspects of life - mentally, emotionally, physically, and literally - and how disconnected our lives have become as a result,” he said.

“In a way, Cyclone is my resistance to the ‘ignorance is bliss’ attitude that is so entrenched in our society and my attempt to reconnect with something simpler.”

Off the back of his debut album ‘A Flower InTheWeeds’ in 2021 and in 2023, his vibrant track ‘STAY’, Mungovan has also announced a new album Sugar, Candy, Lips which will debut 15 March. The album represents a culmination of new inspiration and influences that have filtered into the artist’s process; manifesting in a set of recorded tracks out of his home studio on NSW’s southern coast, as well as The Grove Studios.

The live set at Sooki Lounge heralds some of the first live delivery of his new material and Mungovan said the Sooki gig was the first

time they’d played through the whole range of the new songs.

“We’ve been playing them live for the first time, so it was it was a bit nervous to deal with, but we got through it,” he said.

“The only real practice you can get is to just perform it live and it seemed to come across really well.”

The album itself, particularly with ‘Cyclone’ is a step in a different direction for the artist, who said he credits the expansion

partly to collaboration he did with others in production.

“I think this one, and a lot of the songs on the album are kind of leading back to a lot of the music that I listened to when I was younger, a lot of old funk records and reggae records as well – sort of blending that in with my style of songwriting,” he said.

“I think part of the reason that I was able to get to that place is that I’ve been working with a bunch of new musos on this recording

in particular.”

“In the past, I’ve just done everything in solitude by myself – It gives me a bigger canvas to paint on and I definitely am excited to do more of it in the future.”

Joe Mungovan will return to Victoria soon and will be touring along the East Coast throughout April.

“We had a ball and can’t wait to get back around and play our shows,” he said.

Free Belgrave book launch

By Gabriella Vukman

Pop down to the Belgrave Library this Saturday 16 March, for the free launch of Casselise Rowe’s debut novel ‘Banksia Close’.

Along with author talks and free entry, catering will also be provided for attendees with plenty of vegan options available.

Author of Banksia Close and Hills local Casselise Rowe (or C.L Rowe) said, “Banksia Close is a fictional drama revolving around a street of neighbours who all decide to breach the social lockdown and meet for dinner.”

“A massive argument irrupts over different political leanings and perspectives on how things are being managed.”

“By the time the dinner party is finished, everyone is in absolute tatters and friendships and relationships are destroyed,” Ms Rowe said.

The event commences at 10.30am and attendees are encouraged to register via the Belgrave library website to ensure that everyone is catered for.

Ms Rowe said, “I actually started writing the book after I had an argument with my partner.”

“During Covid it came to a point where I needed to use my writing as an outlet for my own sanity and the dialogue and actual story itself just flew out of my fingers,” Ms Rowe said.

“To get it all out on the pages took six months.”

‘Banksia Close’ is deliberately written for every community and book signings are welcomed at the launch.

“I would hope the book offers some closure to people who suffered over Covid.”

“I want the book to bring to light appreciation that everyone does come from different places and different perspectives and it’s really not worth imploding personal relationships based on opinions,” Ms Rowe said.

“I found it quite peaceful to write by the end.”

Joe Mungovan is launching his new album on 15 March.

Picture: SUPPLIED

‘Banksia Close’ will launch at the

Author Casselise Rowe will speak at the Belgrave Library.

The world is watching our Facebook fight!

An open letter to Prime MinisterAnthonyAlbanese

Dear Prime Minister, Your first response to Facebook brazenly announcing they’ll stop paying for our news that they use to make a fortune from was…perfect!

“That’s not the Australian way,” you said.

Exactly. Australians hate bullies. Australians fight for a fair go. And this battle is not just a fight for a fair go here - the whole world is watching.

Meta, the trillion dollar tech giant that owns Facebook has built an empire out of content they don’t own. They don’t produce anything. They ‘share’ the great work of others and keep the cash.

The Australian government was the first in the world to call out this scandal, and in 2021 the News Media Bargaining Code forced them to finally pay for news content.

But not anymore.

Meta is betting that if they bully the Australian government, they win the world.

PM, this is a fight for the future of news and democracy. This is fight against fake news and a fight for a fair go for all journalists who hold the powerful to account, all around the world.

Let’s make sure Australia shows Facebook what a fair go is. The world is watching.

Yours sincerely,

Andrew Schreyer President Country Press Australia

Look back at Empire Day

In a newspaper article during Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, among many other titles she was described as The Head of the Commonwealth.

The Commonwealth, formerly the British Empire, consists of more than 30 countries with an historical attachment to Britain.

Heads of government meet periodically in capital cities of member states and every four years the countries compete in The Commonwealth Games. In the past, celebrations of Empire Day were a special occasion.

Most Australians would probably find it difficult, and perhaps rather quaint, to understand the fervour for the Empire and enthusiasm with which it was celebrated for decades on the 24 May each year, Queen Victoria’s birthday. At the beginning of the 20th century Australians were overwhelmingly of Anglo Celtic heritage.

Looking back

Bryn Jones

Britain was the mother country; even people born in Australia often referred to Britain as home. So much of the world atlases were coloured red of the British Empire.

Not surprisingly, then, Australians celebrated Empire Day as enthusiastically as any others in the British Empire. In Healesville, as in many other small country towns, Empire Day

was one of the highlights of the year.

Although details differed over a long period, the general pattern of the day remained much the same; addresses by local dignitaries to the schools, lunch in one of the town’s halls.

Sports in Queens Park, entertainment at the hall followed by dancing until midnight for the adults after the children had gone off to bed.

In 1928 for example, after the usual appropriate address by the Shire President, a sumptuous dinner was held in the Memorial Hall, after which adjournment was made to Queens Park where games were played.

Later everyone returned to the hall to see Robinson Crusoe on the screen. In the evening, a fancy dress dance was held and the children completed a most enjoyable and entertaining day at 10 o’clock.

A dance for adults continued until close to

midnight. In later years Boss Christie, dressed as John Bull and carrying a big union Jack looked very grand he led the procession on his fine horse.

The Healesville Brass Band marched and all kinds of dressed up characters and vehicles followed, as well as the assembled school children. The other usual activities followed which made it a very memorable day.

Empire Day continued until 1960 when it was reported by the more politically correct and appropriate Commonwealth Day.

Now, different parts of the Commonwealth remember it at different times of the year, Australia choosing the second week in March to do so. But the fervour, patriotism and identification with Commonwealth no longer exists as it did for Empire Day and whichever day is now chosen, there’s no special fun for children and little celebration by adult either.

Established in 1996, Your Library (formerly Eastern Regional Libraries) is a co-operative of three outer eastern metropolitan councils; Knox, Maroondah and Yarra Ranges.

Your Library’s popular vote PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN

Data from Your Library Annual Report shows that, in the year 2022-23, a total of 1,263,008 library visits and nearly 3,178,788 checkouts were made, including loans and renewals.The digital domain remained strong, accounting for 28.6% of Your Library’s total checkouts.

Also in 2022-23,Your Library had 293,529 members, including 23,329 new members, an increase of 52 per cent from the previous year.

The co-op’s branch libraries and reading rooms offered 134,589 PC sessions, with the number of WiFi users reaching 306,061, a whopping 249 per cent from the previous year!

Each year, Your Library collects information about the books that are most borrowed.

On February 14, Library Lover’s Day, the most popular book in 2023, as voted by Your Library’s members, was revealed to be Lessons in Chemistry by American author Bonnie Garmus.

When asked why they loved Lessons in Chemistry, one voter praised: “A true depiction of life for a single mother & working woman in the 1950’s. Well written and touched on relatable themes such as ineq-

uity, loneliness, and courage. Relevant for so many individuals.” Another voter described the book as “quirky, humorous and such a good read”.

If you, too, are a fan of this “page-turning, funny, poignant” book, here comes the great news. On Tuesday 21 May, Garmus will be discussing her captivating debut novel at Melbourne Town Hall.

As introduced by The Wheeler Centre: “At her only Melbourne event on her first Australian tour, Garmus [will sit down] with host Astrid Edwards to discuss her breakthrough novel, which has since been adapted into a major TV series starring Brie Larson.”

“Together, they’ll explore her funny and feisty heroine, the surprising fan phenomenon of Six-Thirty the dog, and how the novel’s historical setting sheds light on the truths of today.”

Solaris, starring Sandler

Spaceman

Starring Adam Sandler, Paul Dano and Carey Mulligan

Rated M 4/5

Based on the Czech novel Spaceman in Bohemia by Jaroslav Kalfar, Spaceman is an atmospheric, deeply touching science fiction drama.

On a lonely mission to study a mysterious cloud in deep space, cosmonaut Jakub Prochazka (Adam Sandler) befriends a spider-like alien being who he names Hanuš (Paul Dano). With its sombre tone, ambient score and themes of introspection in space, Spaceman is reminiscent of Andrei Tarkovsky’s remarkable 1972 film Solaris.

Spaceman’s dialogue has a grounded eloquence found in novels translated properly to film.

Sandler delivers a solid dramatic performance of weary concern and dedication, and Dano has an otherworldly soothing presence as the voice of Hanuš (though, needless to say, this film is not for arachnophobes).

Jakub’s ship is full of authentic, often retrofuturistic detail, and the first act amusingly suggests that when an anomaly like Hanuš appears to you alone and far from home, all you can do is cope and move on.

Spaceman is slow, tender and meditative, and the Chopra space cloud is a pretty fram-

ing-device for Jakub’s personal journey.

The ever-elegant Carey Mulligan plays Jakub’s estranged wife Lenka, and the flashbacks of their relationship are vibrant and surreal but tinged with melancholy.

Through Jakub and Hanuš’s touching bond, Jakub steadily discards his selfishness and comes to value the life he neglected back home.

Jakub’s traumatic past, including his Communist Party informant father, feels a little underdeveloped, and the cinematography is a mixed bag. Plenty of the shots are beautiful, but some are very poorly-framed, with the characters awkwardly out of view.

Spaceman is streaming on Netflix, and in 2024’s biggest cinematic miracle so far, this Adam Sandler movie costarring a giant spider made me cry.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

CARTOON

Wicked looks at what happened in the Land of Oz … but from a different angle.

Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald, green skin, who is smart, fiery, misunderstood and possession an extraordinary talent.

Wicked is outstanding Kemp’s curtain call

When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns in the unlikeliest friendship… until the world decides to call one“good” and the other one “wicked”.

Your correspondence recommends that you don’t miss it.

BurrinjaTheatre

Woman born with emerald, green skin, who is smart, fiery, misunderstood and possessing an extraordinary talent.

When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships until the world calls one “good” and the other one “wicked”.

Appearing at the Regent Theatre Collins St. Melbourne the production is outstanding.

Above the stage there is a giant bat which moves about when required.

A busy stage set with various scenes at rear and stairs etc on each side.

The cast was brilliant. Sheridan Adams was Elphaba the green witch.

A delightful performance really capturing the essence of such a character.

The good witch, Glinda, was given an excellent performance as the bubbly blonde by Courtney Monsmna.

Robyn Nevin was Madame Morrible giving a great interpretation of her role.

The Wizard of Oz was played by Simon Burke who captured the essence of the character with smoothness and excellence.

The balance of the cast caught the finer points of such a musical giving the first night audience “a wonderful evening.

Of course, such a production was greeted with a standing ovation from the Melbourne opening night audience.

A Litle Bit of Blue – Little Wing Puppets.

A detective story, told with puppetry, where you help solve the case.

A Little Bit of Blue is an interactive detective sow for families, told with puppetry.

As well as helping to unravel a mystery, the audience will learn about the extraordinary habits of the Australian Bowerbird and why they are fascinated by the colour blue.

The story begins with a strange disappearance from Mrs Mavis Hooley;s home.

Little things go missing clothes, pegs, teacup, a ball of wool.

But then the thief takes it just one step too far.

Mavis calls in a detective to investigate. A stakeout is required. In the dead of the night the detective indeed finds something peculiar.

The children’s role is to help him solve the case.

Season: Wednesday April 10 at 11am in the Lyre room.

The Puppetry of PaperWorkshop

Scrunch, rip, twist, tear.

This fun workshop is based on Bunraku, a Japanese form of puppetry.

In this workshop, members participants will learn to make a puppet out of paper and the skill bringing it to life a team.

Season: Wednesday April 19 at 12noon in the Lyre Room.

Healesville and District Historical Society president

Vulnerable at first sight

By Maria Millers

In the 18 th century one of the pastimes of the times was to pay a visit to a mental institution to view the incarcerated inmates, like a human zoo. Institutions like Bethlam, Royal Hospital or Bedlam as it was known, encouraged this practice, initially as a source of revenue.

Eventually, as more understanding and better treatment of the mentally ill evolved, this practice was discontinued.

It is tempting to draw a parallel between that early form of voyeuristic entertainment and the reality show phenomenon that is Married at First Sight (MAFS) but of course for those taking part in this so called ‘social experiment’ it is a personal choice to participate.

But although there is no suggestion of mental illness among the participants, there nevertheless appears to be vulnerability.

Last Friday was International Women’s Day, a day to reflect on the achievements of women, its theme ‘to inspire inclusion’ and encourage everyone to recognize the unique perspectives and contributions of women from all walks of life.

Federal government announced that from next year superannuation would be included in paid parental leave as a step towards gender equality for women.

But the media coverage was muted and there was little public discussion.

Instead, on Sunday night, millions of Australians watched Nine’s Married at First Sight the program that has been dominating all ratings across the board, season after season.

The format is to bring together couples that have never met before but have been paired by a panel of experts (a sexologist, two relationship counsellors) as being compatible, put them through a sham wedding and then let the cameras roll as they respond to the many manipulations engineered by producers and the experts.

The success rate of resulting long lasting relationships is very low while the emotional readjustments after the show ends have been often painful and damaging.

This program has faint echoes of traditional match making which is still practiced in some cultures and even today in Australia there is a demand for matchmakers among some ethnic

SNIPPETS

Want to improve your brain power?

One of the best ways to do this is by playing bridge, which has long been the world’s most popular card game.

Easy to learn and fun to play, it is a friendly game of social interaction which can be enjoyed by all ages.

The challenges it provides are a great way to keep brains active.

WOORILLA WORDS

groups as the current program on SBS shows.

While most believe arranged marriages to be coercive the program shows that approached ethically and with cultural sensitivity there can be happy endings. In the case of MAFS, carefully called ‘an experiment,’ the overriding aim is for high ratings to lure sponsors.

The two most pertinent questions are: why are we still watching? And why are there people still wanting to participate?

The first may be related to my opening remarks We are still drawn in by the voyeuristic prurient need to peek behind closed doors.

Maybe in a society where the village well no longer exists to share in the gossip of the day this now serves instead.

And, of course, we all like to revel in the discomfort of others or as the Germans call it, Shadenfreude: the getting of pleasure from someone else’s misfortune as we watch a hapless participant getting drunk or finding herself/himself seen in a less than flattering light.

A Nine spokesperson defended the show and its year in year out popularity because ‘it continues to become part of the cultural conversation that captures the Zeitgeist.’

Have we then become a harsher, shallower, angrier, more divided society where the traditional means of finding love are no longer there?

Marriage has certainly undergone change, many choosing to forego the formality of marriage and choose to live as partners.

But there are still many who regard the coming of two people together as one as a sacrament and undoubtedly would find MAFS sham weddings as deeply offensive.

It is too easy to make value judgments

Upwey Bridge Club, founded in 2002, holds sessions on Tuesdays at 10am in the UpweyTecoma Sports Centre.

The club is affiliated with the Australian Bridge Federation and with Bridge Victoria.

Recently, Upwey was represented by two players participating in Bridge in the Ballroom at Government House among 160 players and distinguished guests from the whole state.

Upwey Bridge Club would warmly welcome new members. For more information on bridge in the hills, please contact Fay 0421 521

Last

about those who participate or to slot them into a particular demographic, but it is obvious that there are certain shared characteristics, both in the men and women: certain body types prevail, cosmetic enhancements seem obvious in most, as is the universal prevalence of being ‘inked up’.

Tattoos , both visible and hidden abound.

But why after so many painful experiences and the difficulties in picking up their lives post MAFS, do so many still apply to be part of this experiment?

Producer Tara McWilliams admitted: ‘It’s a bit of a mystery, in some ways, as to why people are so open and honest on such a public platform, but we’re very grateful they are.’

Surely, the participants must be aware that they are being exploited and are ready to accept it.

But are they all aware of the manipulation the obvious distorting the truth to suit the narrative.

The deliberate setting up of potential conflicts in alcohol fuelled dinner parties and

125, Terry 0408 531 146 or Susan 9754 8889.

Get active, get involved

Ride the Olinda Trail

The Olinda Creek Trail Committee invites all bike riders to join them on Tuesday 26 March at 9.45am from Mount Evelyn to Olinda.

Hoping to show Yarra Ranges councillors that this extended trail has the community’s backing, the ride will take the proposed path.

other settings.

Then clever editing can result in something totally different to what was intended.

We also live in a culture where there is a craving for public validation, the seeking of ‘fifteen minutes of fame’ which promotes the cult of instant and mostly undeserved celebrity status.

One should question the ethics behind the selection process, how the participants are chosen.

One mustn’t forget that programs like MAFS draw huge advertising revenue while at the same time have much lower costs than those who produce drama.

Participants in reality shows are more cost effective than actors and writers.

As well these shows allow the networks to comply with the required 55 per cent Australian content between 6am and midnight on primary channels.

Ultimately we must question the ethics behind MAFS and indeed other reality programs and their obligation to safeguard the welfare of participants from being humiliated just to create a conflict for the titilation of viewers.

Perhaps we should also ask ourselves how different are we from those who visited Bedlam for entertainment back in the 18th century.

Let’s leave the last words on marriage to Shakespeare.

Sonnet 116 byWilliam Shakespeare

“Let me not to the marriage of true minds

Admit impediments. Love is not love

Which alters when it alteration finds, Or bends with the remover to remove:

O no! it is an ever-fixed mark

That looks on tempests and is never shaken; It is the star to every wandering bark, Whose worth’s unknown, although his height be taken.

Love’s not Time’s fool, though rosy lips and cheeks

Within his bending sickle’s compass come:

Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks,

But bears it out even to the edge of doom.

If this be error and upon me proved, I never writ, nor no man ever loved.”

Beginning at York and Tramway Road car park in Mount Evelyn, it will finish at the Olinda shopping strip, taking approximately an hour and 45 minutes.

The committee suggests it would be quite easy for eBike riders and fine for strong riders on hybrid bikes. It is mostly off road (including some quiet roads) and existing trails, most in good condition.

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to

must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no

ACROSS

1 Philosopher, Rene – (9)

6 Ukraine city (4)

10 Indian Ocean country, – Lanka (3)

11 Extreme conservatism or rightism in politics (11)

12 Brings to life (8)

13 Urging, – on (6)

14 Greeting (Ital) (4)

15 Forbidden by law (7)

20 Order (7)

21 Prefix meaning 1 billionth (4)

25 French male name (6)

26 Disparage (8)

28 Disenchant (11)

29 Suitable (3)

30 Directs (4)

31 Banishment (9)

DOWN

1 Send out (6)

2 Curved sword (8)

3 Antenna (6)

4 Journeyed (9)

5 Location (4)

7 Roma is its capital (6)

8 Journey (6)

9 HitchhikersGuide author, – Adams (7)

16 Fanatic (9)

17 List of employees (7)

18 Seasoned smoked beef (8)

19 Impetus (8)

22 Eight-legged animal (6)

23 Time of the year (6)

24 Austrian capital (6)

27 Car (4)

DECODER WORDFIT

9-LETTER WORD

Using

plural words ending in “s”.

No. 176

No. 176

No. 176

PROPERTY

CENTRAL FAMILY OASIS WITH POOL AND TENNIS COURT

FAMILY OASIS WITH POOL AND TENNIS COURT

TREAT yourself to a tour of this stylish lifestyle property situated on one of Upwey’s finest residential roads, a stone’s throw from Upwey South Primary School, childcare, train station and bus transport. Boasting a landscaped 2,132sqm (approx.) block bursting with features including a swimming pool and tennis court, this property is what fabulous family living is all about.

The striking façade with rich timber and standing seam Colorbond cladding is enhanced with a family-friendly level garden and a single garage. Upon entry, engineered wideboard timber floors and hydronic heating add welcome warmth. At the front of the dwelling is the rumpus room/home office with ample storage and access to the large laundry with stone benchtops and guest WC.

The hub of the home is the open concept living area featuring a custom timber accent wall and a chefs’ kitchen with expansive island, Siemens and Miele appliances, and walk-in pantry. From here you can step out through bifold doors to your own private oasis featuring covered and open decking and views of the tennis court, pool, veggie garden, firepit area, and powered studio. On the upper level with large balcony, there are 5 unique bedrooms with quality wool carpet and plenty of storage accompanied by a family bathroom with spa tub. Two of these rooms feature ensuites and walk-in robes, including the parents’ retreat with private balcony, dressing room, and luxurious ensuite with egg tub, dual sink vanity with stone benchtops, dual rain showers, and make-up station.

A feast for the senses, this property invites you to explore and make yourself at home. Plan your viewing today.

· 2,132sqm (approx.) property with landscaped gardens

· Tennis court, swimming pool, veggie beds, firepit area, and powered shed

· Timber and standing seam Colorbond exterior with single garage

· Versatile and stylish interior with engineered timber floors and hydronic heating

· Magnificent chefs’ kitchen with Siemens and Miele appliances ●

Cockatoo, Gembrook & Avonsleigh.

homes. Their efforts have been appreciated and acknowledged, as they have been awarded the Rate My Agent, Most Recommended Agency 2024 in Emerald,

With over 100 years of collective experience in real estate in the area, the Emerald Team works together to achieve exceptional results for their clients and provide a knowledgeable, experienced, skilful and caring approach to helping them along the sometimes emotional journey of buying and selling property.

Samantha Scott joined the team in

2012 and has achieved the honour of Most Recommended Agent in both Emerald and Cockatoo for 2024. Samantha commented that her passion for real estate, experience in sales and customer service and her love of the area and the community, (as she has lived in Cockatoo for 30 years), made the decision to give real estate a go an easy one. Since then, Sam has developed into one of the team’s most successful agents

and works hard and closely with all her clients to achieve the optimum results every time.

Sam commented, ‘I actually love my job more than I thought possible to love work and with the support of the team, which to me are like family, we have a great time, laugh lots and achieve great results for our clients, many of which have now become friends. I could not ask for anything better!’ ●

Bell Real Estate Team in Emerald have been awarded the Rate My Agent, Most Recommended Agency 2024 in Emerald, Cockatoo, Gembrook and Avonsleigh.

Samantha Scott joined the team in 2012 and has achieved the honour of Most Recommended Agent in both Emerald and Cockatoo for 2024.

4VistaCourt,Gembrook

WalktoGembrookMainstreet &EnjoyTheGorgeousGarden!

Thisprivate& lowmaintenance3 bedroom,2 bathroomhomeis ashortstrollfromthemainstreet. Featuring2 separatedrivewayentries,thereareplentyofpossibilitieswiththishome.Thehomehas anopenplankitchen/lounge/diningroomthatenjoysviewsouttothebackgarden& hasa split systemAC.Thekitcheniswellequippedwitha gasstove &oven&abutlerspantry.Themaster bedroomenjoysitsownsplitsystemAC,BIRs& ensuite.Thereare 2furtherbedroomsbothwithBIRs. Thereisa lovelyfamilybathroomwith ashower&aseparatebath.Thereisalsoductedheating throughoutthehome& plentyofnaturallight.Outsideis adelightinthefullyfencedbackyard.The manicuredgarden& lawnistranquilwithanarrayoffruittrees.Thereisalsoa securitysystemwith

BrennanMileto

52PatonsRoad,Macclesfield$1,750,000 -$1,900,000

StylishlyRenovatedHomewithEquineInfrastructureonNearly20acres!

Featuringa 40m*20msandmenage,dayyards,electricfencedpaddocks,hotwash,tack room,floatstorage,hayshed, a3-baybarn,cross-countrycourse,mainswater &a comfortable 4-bedroom,2 bathroom,‘Hamptons’stylehomewithviews &zonedheating& cooling.Thehome has2 loungeareas, adiningarea& entertainingdeck.Themasterbedroomhasa walk-through robe,ceilingfan &ensuite.Theopenplankitchen/dining/livingareahas awoodfire &a 900mmgas stove& anelectricoven,& thelaundryhasa dryingcupboard.Thereare 3furtherbedroomswith BIRs &a familybathroom.Thestockyardshaveloadingramps,thereare5 paddockswithwater,day yards,tackroom,feedshed,hotwashbay,haystorage &machinerystorage.Thereis apermanent creek,a Springfeddam,a chickenrun,anall-weathergraveldriveway, &lockupgarage.

SamanthaScott M 0438680032

20ChurchStreet,Emerald $800,000 -$880,000

PerfectLocationToDownsizeIntoTheHeartOfEmerald! Thissolid 3bedroom,2 bathroom,brickhomeonjustunder1/4acreisliterally a500mflatwalktoIGA intheheartofEmerald.Somefeaturesinclude:#Flatblock #Landscapedgardens #Fullyfenced backyardfordogs #2 livingareas #Spaciouslounge/diningroomoverlookingtherearyard #Separatekitchen/meals orfamilyroom #Wellappointedkitchen# Spaciousmainbathroom #Hugemasterbedroomwithrobes& (2way)ensuite# Sunnydeckforentertaining #Privatelylocatedontheblockina quietnothroughroad #Plentyofoffstreetparkingforcars& thevan/trailer

SamanthaScott

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

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

2 A 1 BC

FAMILY HOME AND SEPARATE UNIT ON 1/3 OF A FLAT ACRE

‘NESTLED in the serene beauty of Cockatoo, this property sits on just over 1/3 of a flat acre and offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and space for your family. With a total of 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms and 3 living spaces, this property would suit growing or large families of all ages.

The Main Residence comprises of:

· 3 bedrooms, the main zoned for privacy, featuring a full ensuite and walk-in robe

· 2 further bedrooms are serviced by a spacious bathroom with a large bathtub and separate shower

· Spacious front living room enjoys the morning sun and contains a wood fire

· Separate family room with gas heater and large AC opens onto a large, covered veranda that wraps around the rear of the home facing the tranquil rear garden

· Central kitchen, with abundant storage and bench space, stainless steel appliances and a separate adjoining dining area.

· The roomy laundry has direct access to the verandah

· Undercover parking for 2 cars and a shaded area for several more or a boat, caravan or work vehicles

The extensive backyard can be accessed from the veranda via a paved barbecue area shaded by a beautiful tree canopy. The yard has an open grassed area surrounded by shedding and a large secure powered workshop. A tree-lined boundary includes a veggie patch and a mature lemon tree. What home is not complete without a lemon tree?

A separately metered self-contained bungalow/unit completes the property with 1 bedroom, full bathroom, lounge with airconditioning, kitchen including breakfast bar, separate parking for 2 cars and covered verandah to the entrance. Private and

perfect for growing/extended family or even to generate an income. It also could be a fantastic home office/workspace/studio (subject to council approval).

Experience the peaceful ambience of this neighbourhood, coupled with the convenience of a bus stop across the road, close to shops, schools, and community facilities with Emerald only a 6 minutes drive away.

Don’t miss the opportunity to make this extensive property your forever home. Contact us today to schedule a viewing. ●

FAMILY LIVING ON OVER HALF AN ACRE

SPANNING over multiple levels, this spacious, ‘pretty as a picture’ home offers a well designed floorplan that will appeal to families of any size. Set on a beautiful and useable half an acre, the property boasts gorgeous, mature gardens and extended flat lawns where children can play and maybe even the adults can join in on a game of bocce or backyard cricket.

There are four bedrooms, the master suite on its own level with updated ensuite, two others with easy access to the main bathroom and the fourth bedroom making an ideal teenagers retreat or home office set up with its own entry.

Two living zones can be found at either end of the home: one being a relaxed TV / lounge area, the other an oversized family room and dining area that is truly special in every way. Bursting with country charm, the kitchen has plenty of bench space, walk in pantry and room for your large fridge – A small detail that is not always easy to find in older homes!

Timber floorboard, unique bluestone walls and heightened ceilings are just some of the details that make this property so special, leaving you with the feeling that this house is more than just another ordinary home.

A combination of split system heating/ cooling and dual gas log fireplaces work together extremely well to create a cosy and comfortable environment no matter what the weather and on those warmer days, step out onto the large under cover decking and enjoy dinner with family and friends as you take in the peaceful surrounds of your very own property.

Not often will you see a property so perfect for family living – An inspection is an absolute must. ●

Address: 30

7/1ChandlerRoad,BORONIA

SharynChandler

2 A 1 B 1 C

$370,000 -$410,000 STYLISHANDCENTRALAPARTMENTLIVING

Whetheryouarea firsttimehomebuyeroraninvestorsearchingfortheidealenhancement ofyourpropertyportfolio,thisunittickstheboxesof abrilliantinvestment.Offeringaneasycare apartmentlifestyleinprimepositiononlystepsfromBoroniaJunctionshoppingand caféprecinctandtheconvenienceofBoroniaStation,thisiswhereliveabilityandlifestyle arematchedtoperfection.

RachelEastwood

M 0401117761| E rachel@chandlerandco.com.au

Magnificent“Lugano”boasts

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 concussion protocols

The AFL has announced new concussion protocols to be implemented at every level of football below the AFL and AFLW, bringing them in line with the Australian Institute of Sport’s Concussion and Brain Health Position Statement 2024.

Under new rules, players will be forced to refrain from playing for 21 days after suffering a concussion, essentially missing three matches.

In a statement on the league’s website, AFL general counsel Stephen Meade said the League’s concussion guidelines were the most stringent concussion protocols in Australian sport and they reflected the AFL’s commitment to player safety at all levels.

“The updated community guidelines represent a significant step in the AFL’s existing record of ongoing improvements to its concussion management strategy that reflect medical research and other learnings over time,” he said.

“We play a contact sport and there is always going to be risk, however over recent years we have continued to take action to strengthen match-day protocols and amend the Laws of the Game to discourage high contact, and we will continue to do so.”

AFL and AFLW players will still only have to miss 12 days of action with the AFL stating that the ‘advanced care settings’ and increased medical oversight for concussed AFL and AFLW players would allow them to continue with the three-stage, 11-step return to play protocols that have been in effect since 2021.

This will still apply even if an AFL or AFLWlisted player is concussed while playing at a state-league level such as the VFL, WAFL or SANFL.

Mr Meade said they continue to listen and learn from the medical and scientific professionals and take action to deal with the im-

portant topic of concussion and player safety.

“While there are risks of injury in our sport, we will continue to act to reduce and manage those risks, and there are also many very significant physical and mental health benefits of playing our great game.”

The changes come into effect in the wake

of further severe concussion news in the AFL, with Melbourne Demons star Angus Brayshaw forced into a medical retirement last month due to the impact of multiple concussions while a landmark seven-week suspension was handed out to St Kilda defender Jimmy Webster for an ‘extremely careless’, ‘very

high’ impact and ‘high contact’ bump on North Melbourne co-captain Jye Simpkin in a Community Series practice match, as found by the AFL Tribunal.

The Eastern Football Netball League and Outer East Football Netball League were contacted for comment.

Local footballers will now have to sit out 21 days after suffering a concussion.

Picture: MIKAYLA HAUPT

Tigers secure finals spot

By Sean Talbot

The Upwey Ferntree Gully Tigers officially punched their ticket to the postseason with a commanding 7-0 over the Sandringham Royals at Tulip St Reserve on Tuesday 5 March, officially ending the Royals finals chances at the same time. Knowing the implications of a win for both teams (although miscalculated by Tigers staff during the week), Upwey handed the ball to JarrodTurner as they looked to ride their staff ace and attempt to secure their 17th win of the season, while Sandringham sent their veteran ace Grant Irving to go head-to-head with Turner and extend the Royals season.

The Tigers looked to set the tone from the jump, as Pete Schroeders lined the second pitch of the game to centerfield for a base hit before Wade McConnon laid down a perfect sacrifice bunt, requiring two outstanding plays from third baseman Josh Meyr and first baseman Sam Trend-Beacom to record the out and allowing Schroeders to advance to second. Upwey were unable to capitalize on the runner in scoring position though, as Jordan Elliott was jammed on a groundball and Josh Hendricks flew out to retiring Royals legend Matt Blackmore in centerfield to end the inning. Turner began the game in the best way imaginable, striking out the side in order sit the Royals down 1-2-3 in the bottom half of the inning.

Irving continued to make short work of the Tigers hitters in the top of the 2nd inning, needing only nine pitches to get coach Donavon Hendricks to ground out to second base, serve up a base hit to Jack Ratcliffe, induce an infield fly from Harvey Chinn and a groundout from Staci Rogers to again keep Upwey scoreless in the 2nd inning and showing signs of his typical efficient efforts on the mound, needing only 17 pitches through the first two innings. Looking to help his own cause, Irving , hitting in the clean-up spot for Sandringham, led of the bottom of the 2nd with a jam shot double to right field, however Turner applied the screws, securing a flyball, a strikeout and a groundout from the next three Royals hitters to leave Irving stranded at second.

While the scorebook shows that Nick Rice led off the top of the 3rd inning with a popout in foul territory, it does not do justice to the quality of the at-bat he had. Fouling off six pitches and seeing 11 total, Rice shook Irving’s resolve and well and truly set the stage for a big inning as Irving appeared gassed and frustrated as Schroeders stepped to the plate and was promptly walked on four pitches before McConnon also worked a walk, with Schroeders stealing second base during the at-bat. Elliott singled to centerfield on an 0-2 count to load the bases before J Hendricks wore a pitch on a 1-2 count to bring home Schroeders and score Upwey’s first run of the inning, D Hendricks singled to score McConnon and Ratcliffe singled to score Elliott to push the score to 3-0 with the bases still loaded and one out. Irving battled back to strike out Chinn and Rogers, but not before he uncorked a wild pitch during Rogers’ at bat to score J Hendricks and give Upwey a 4-0 lead and needed 42 pitches to finally finish the inning.

Despite surrendering a lead off single to start the bottom of the 3rd, Turner never looked panicked as he struck out Ty Daniels and got Lachlan Smith to ground into the rare 1-6-3 double play to quickly end the inning, the back end of the play drawing the ire of the home crowd who believed Smith beat the throw despite umpire David Rice’s call of out.

Irving was immediately taken from the flame to the fire (or in this case, the fire to a bigger fire) in the top of the 4th, as Rice led off with a single, Schroeders walked and McConnon singled to score Rice and move Schroeders to third base whilst himself scampering to second on the throw. Schroeders scored on a passed ball during Elliott’s at-bat which move McConnon to third, before the Upwey catcher lifted a sacrifice fly to left field to score McConnon and move the score to 7-0 in favor of the Tigers before the Hendricks brothers were retired on a fly ball and a ground ball to end the frame. Sandringham looked to create some momentum in the bottom half of the inning as Harro Wills led off with a single, however Sam Trend-Beacom and Irving grounded out to McConnon at shortstop before Declan Ferguson weakly flew out to Rice in centerfield to

end the frame.

Surprisingly taking the mound in the 5th inning despite his ballooning pitch count, Irving continued to battle for his side and sat Ratcliffe, Chinn and Rogers down in order to quickly give the home squad another chance at bat as they looked to break into the run column, however Turner had ideas of his own. Clearly a fan of the “Go To Jail” square in Monopoly, the Tigers ace ensured nobody passed Go or collected $200 as a pair of strikeouts and a weak fly ball sat the Royals down in order, sending the game to the 5th inning with no change to the score.

Irving again took the mound in the 6th inning and continued battling the Upwey hitters, getting Rice to ground out and pinch hitter Flynn Morrison to fly out to the infield before surrendering a two-out single to McConnon before Elliott flew out to right to strand McCo-

nnon and deny the Tigers another run. Turner continued his dominance against Sandringham in the bottom half of the inning, using the growing shadows to full advantage whilst his command and velocity only got better, again striking out a pair and inducing a weak ground ball to sit Sandringham down 1-2-3 to end the frame.

Looking to finish what he started despite the score line, Irving again took the mound in the 7th inning and was able to escape with minimal worries, working a three-up, threedown inning against the Hendricks brothers and Ratcliffe to send the game to the bottom of the 7th and Sandringham’s last chance for the evening, as despite having 30 minutes available in game time, the fading light was making tracking the ball harder and player safety was evidently at the front of the minds of umpires Welsh and Rice. Turner was in no mood for a

fairytale comeback similar to the one the Royals put together in the first half of the season, quickly striking out Trend-Beacom and getting groundouts from Irving and Ferguson to end the game, lock down the 7-0 win for the Tigers and put an end to the Royals season as the loss mathematically eliminates them from the possibility of playoffs.

The win improves the Tigers record to 17-91 on the season as they now have a stranglehold on 3rd place on the Premier League ladder, with Essendon (15-10) and Sandringham (15-11) unable to catch them, whilst Waverley (19-5-1) will finish in 1st place as Minor Premiers and Blackburn (18-8-1) will finish in 2nd even if the Tigers can beat them this weekend and match their record due to picking up two wins against the reigning premiers in earlier season contests.

Tigers shortstop Wade McConnon. Picture: ADAM BATTYE

SPORT

Double Monny joy

By Aaron Gillard

Great weekend for the Hawks with the ones and twos both winning on Saturday.

The ones’ progress to the Preliminary Final next weekend after beating St Johns Tecoma. Chasing their 10/229 (Connor Haworth-Hooker 4/46), MCC finished on 3/231 in the 70th over. A brilliant opening partnership of 143 between Shane Cosstick (68) and Tyren Utting (95) set up the win. Josh Spencer (31) and Jim Fenby 18* finished the job. The 1s now take on South Belgrave at their ground next weekend.

The twos rolled UFTG yesterday for 10/116, (J.Fraser 5/20, Daniel Cleary 2/21) before having to work hard to pass their score at 2/119 off 60 overs. Kyle Saf Saf (64*) & Lucas Jurey (25*) got the job done. The twos now host Eildon Park in the Grand Final at our main ground next weekend.

The fours play their semi-final on Monday afternoon after the first two days were heated out. Barring an unthinkable collapse, they will play a grand final at the Monbulk High School next weekend.

The U16’s season unfortunately finished, after their semi final match was ruined by the heat policy.They did though, finish a great season in style: Monbulk 5/135 (Will Meyer 52*, E.Dawson 27) v Rowville Johnson Park 4/92.

The fast nines finished their season with a great win. Archer Arnott 11 & Heath Grigg 14* with great knocks with the bat, and Harry Watson taking 4/9.

The Super Sevens have two games left, after playing on Wednesday night.

Scores:

· 1st XI: Monbulk 3/231 (T. Utting 95, S. Cosstick 68, J. Spencer 31) def St John’s Tecoma 10/229 (C. Haworth Hooker 4/46, A. Powell 2/29, D. Maher 2/50)

· 2nd XI: Monbulk 2/119 (K. Snyman 64*, L. Jurey 25*, B. Hooker 23) def Upper Ferntree

Monbulk’sFastNinesafterthelast-roundwin.

Gully 10/116 (J. Fraser 5/20, D. Cleary 2/21)

· 4th XI: Scores TBC

· 16s: Monbulk 5/135 (W. Meyer 52*, E. Dawson 27) vs Rowville Johnson Park 4/92 (B. Trinnick 1/2, J. Thornton 1/4)

· Fast 9s: Monbulk 3/109 (H. Grigg 14*, A. Ar-

Picture:SUPPLIED

nott 11) def Upper Ferntree Gully 7/33 (H. Watson 4/9, L. Hutton 2/9)

· Super 7s: Monbulk Gold 60 (H. Robb 18*) vs Belgrave 193 (H. Robb 1/16)

· Super 7s: Monbulk Maroon 59 (I. Stott 6*, B. Bruneau 5*, A. Anderson 4) vs South Belgrave 124 (A. Anderson 1/9, P. Silver 1/17)

Bowlers celebrate

By Jack Rollings

The Midweek Pennant Section Grand Finals were played this week. The top Monbulk side was playing at Mooroolbark, a neutral ground, against the Warburton top side in Division 2.

The weather was perfect, and the greens were in tip-top condition.

It was a close match all day on the composite scoreboard, with level scores and lead changes happening right to the finish. Monbulk had two rinks down, but the other rink was able to make up the deficit and ensure a close overall Monbulk win for the Premiership flag, 64 shots to 62.

It’s been a few years since the Monbulk top side brought home a flag, so it was quite an atmosphere of celebration back at the Monbulk club, despite the weary legs. The win also means that the Monbulk top side will be promoted next season to Division 1. That will be a step up in competition and should be a testing season for our players. It might require a long pre-season. Well done Monbulk Hawks.

Thepremiership-winningMonbulkBowls ClubMidweekside. Picture:SUPPLIED

Plenty of bling at Little Athletics State Championship

By Jamie Strudley

The Little Athletics Victoria State Track and Field Championships were held over the weekend at a hot, often windy, Knox Athletics Track.

Athletes qualified via their respective region championships ensuring the very best from around the state were in action.

Yarra Ranges Athletics had one of our largest teams competing, with 37 club athletes qualified to compete. We finished the championships with six gold, six silver, four bronze, three fourth place finishes and another four athletes in the top eight. A fantastic weekend of athletics.

The medal haul was led by Micah Friend and Zoe Clarke. Micah, competing in Boys 9-10 Multiclass finished with two gold, two silver and a bronze medal. Zoe, competing in Girls U15 won two gold and one bronze medal from her three events. Other medallists were Brock Peel (one Gold, one Silver), Emily Pincott (Gold), James Chrome-Smith (two Silver), Beau McKinnon (Silver), Tillie Sommers (Bronze), Lanni Aborowa (Bronze).

Full Results are:

Girls U16

· 800m: Kristina Nackovski 2:48.89 (11th);

Girls U15

· 100m: Kayla Paton 13.19 (12th);

· 200m: Kayla Paton 26.77 (11th);

· 400m: Zoe Clarke 61.21 (3rd);

· 800m: Zoe Clarke 2:25.07 (1st);

· 1500m: Zoe Clarke 5:04.68 (1st);

Girls U14

· 100m: Emily Fiedler 13.16 (16th);

· 200m: Emily Fiedler 27.28 (13th);

· 400m: Emily Fiedler 64.41 (14th);

· 1500m: Tori Kincaid 6:10.68 (18th);

Girls U13

· 1500m Walk: Brienna Coffey 9:19.66 (4th);

· High Jump: Mackenzie Graham 1.40m (7th);

· Javelin: Shania Tove 20.27m (16th); Sarina Hathaway 14.89m (21st);

Girls U12

· 1500m Walk: Holly Yorke 8:54.16 (4th);

· High Jump: Emily Pincott 1.50m (1st); Lanni Aborowa 1.40m (3rd); Arizona Peel 1.35m

(5th);

Girls U11

· 400m: Caitlyn McKerlie 74.97 (18th);

· 1100m Walk: Lucy Oettinger 7:51.33 (16th);

Girls U09

· 100m: Zahra Lehmann 16.20 (19th);

· 700m Walk: Tillie Sommers 4:08.52 (3rd);

· Long Jump: Zahra Lehmann 3.27m (16th);

· Shot Put: Imogen McMillan 4.52m (15th);

Boys U16

· 800m: James Crome-Smith 2:08.45 (2nd);

· 1500m: James Crome-Smith 4:36.28 (2nd);

· Discus: Wilbur Davidson-Tuck 29.56m (9th);

· Javelin: Wilbur Davidson-Tuck 23.43m (10th);

· Shot Put: Wilbur Davidson-Tuck 8.79m (11th);

Boys U15

· 400m: Mitchell Pointon 58.88 (17th);

· 800m: Mitchell Pointon 2:11.50 (7th); Blake Saloyedoff 2:14.76 (11th);

· 1500m: Mitchell Pointon 4:46.51 (8th); Blake Saloyedoff 4:50.96 (14th);

· Javelin: Mitchell Pointon 25.12m (9th);

Boys U14

· 1500m Walk: Beau McKinnon 8:25.18 (2nd);

· Shot Put: Zac McMillan 10.13m (9th);

Boys U13

· Javelin: Jakob Knapman 19.98m (18th);

· Shot Put: Jakob Knapman 7.86m (20th);

Boys U12

· 1500m: Samuel Thomas 5:12.86 (15th);

· Discus: Zack Paternoster 21.88m (20th);

· Javelin: Ilikimi Tove 28.31m (4th);

Boys U11

· 100m: Koby Stephens 13.68 (10th);

· 200m: Koby Stephens 28.84 (14th);

· 80m Hurdles: Kristian Sultana 13.80 (9th);

· 1100m Walk: Xander Sommers 6:31.91 (5th);

· Long Jump: Koby Stephens 4.33m (5th);

Boys U09

· 800m: Riley Yorke 3:00.44 (14th);

· High Jump: Brock Peel 1.20m (1st);

· Long Jump: Brock Peel 3.94m (2nd);

· Shot Put: Brock Peel 5.10m (19th);

Boys U910 MC

· 400m: Micah Friend 2:02.04 (2nd);

· 800m: Micah Friend 4:52.04 (1st);

· Discus: Micah Friend 8.71m (3rd);

· Long Jump: Micah Friend 1.66m (2nd);

· Shot Put: Micah Friend 4.35m (1st); Mitch Mullens was in action at the latest HVC meeting. Mitch stormed home to record his fastest time of the year for 100m, running 11.12 seconds, just outside his club record.

This week is our celebration round for our little athletics members with invitations for parents to participate in selected events. This will be our final round of track and field action for the season with our presentation day the week following (23 March). Check socials and website for details.

Training for our six-12yo has finished for the summer season, cross country training will start up on Tuesday evenings in April, enjoy the rest! Seniors training (13yo plus) is on Tuesday and Thursday from 5.30pm at Morrison Reserve. Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability.

Go to lavic.com.au or athsvic.org.au or email info@yarrarangesathletics.org.au for information about events and registration. Cross Country is coming.

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

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