Mail - Mt Evelyn Star Mail - 14th May 2024

More bank closures heading for the east

Future of the YR

Road safety is the key

Students from Lilydale were able to take their practical driving experience and shift to the theory on Thursday 9 May when learning about road safety education.

The RYDA Program looks at all the factors that can lead up to a crash, including speed, weather, fatigue and distraction.

Each program run across the state and the country aims to reduce the over representation of young people who die or are injured in road accidents.

The assistance of Rotary Clubs, like that of Lilydale, ensures students are able to access this type of education at school.

To read more, see page 18

Students from Lilydale Heights College took part in the Road Safety Education RYDA program on Thursday 9 May.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

Win, loss budget

From improved funding for family and domestic violence support to more free TAFE positions, the Victorian State Budget for 2024/25 has said to deliver on some of the essentials. But others have been left disappointed by the funding announcements, with community legal centres stating they were “pleased” to learn a further four years of funding would be provided for existing programs but were “deeply disheartened” that no further funding had been budgeted for the expansion of ser-

vices despite the apparent gendered-violence “national crisis”.

The tourism industry was also blindsided by a cut to its funding, that will now see the $32.5 million forVisitVictoria initially intended for one year to now be spread over four years.

While many areas of the budget were considered conservative, family violence funding stood out as a focus of the Labor Government, with $269 million alone being committed to

initiatives designed to prevent family violence and improve safety for women.

$6.8 million is specifically set to bolster financial counselling services for family violence victim-survivors, providing support to stabilise their financial position and recover from abuse, something that was welcomed by EACH.

“Financial abuse is a key factor in perpetuating family violence, but is often not recognised because people do not recognise this

as violence,” Head of Service Design and National Practice Lead for Family Violence Olivia Sinn said.

Other highlights included the $555 million budgeted for free TAFE, support services within the training sector and the upskilling of workers to improve the workforce pipeline.

More details on the highlights and lowlights of the budget can be found on pages 4-8

ANZ, NAB withdraw Lilydale branches

By Mikayla van Loon

A bank branch will shut its doors in Lilydale comethemiddleofJuneandanotherwillmove suburbs after a wave of closures throughout the local area.

ANZ sent out notifications to customers at the beginning of May informing them of the imminent closure on 19 June at 4pm.

The Lilydale Marketplace branch will be the fourth bank to shutdown face-to-face operations in Lilydale, Mooroolbark and Chirnside Park over the last two years.

The National Australia Bank (NAB) has also confirmed the Marketplace shopfront will close on 23 May, with a new location at Chirnside Park Shopping Centre opening 29 May.

This has been noted as a positive change for the big four bank to cater better to its customers.

“We’re thrilled to be investing $1 million in upgrading our banking facilities with our Lilydale branch relocating to a new, modern branch just down Maroondah Highway at the Chirnside Park Shopping Centre,” NAB metro east retail customer executive Marcus Middleton said.

“The new space at the Chirnside Park Shopping Centre will better serve customers from all across the outer east with a modern open plan design, new meeting rooms equipped with video technology and self-service tools so customers can learn how to get the most out of their internet banking.”

As seen across the state and the country, bank branch closures are not a new phenomenon with the ANZ too claiming the push for digital was a driving force behind the decision to close.

“Australians are adopting digital methods as their preferred way to bank, with around 99 per cent of ANZ customer transactions conducted digitally or via an ATM,” ANZ district manager Paul Groves said.

It is understood that in-person transactions have halved across the ANZ’s branches nationally in the last five years, with just one per cent of banking done over the counter.

Eastland’s ANZ branch will be the closest front facing location for customers to access if needed.

“We are working closely with our customers to ensure they are well supported and aware of all the ways they can complete their banking,” Mr Groves said.

“Customers can continue to bank via the ANZ App, Internet Banking and Phone Banking. We also have a team of community-based bankers, such as mobile lenders, who meet with our customers to discuss their banking needs at a location that best suits them.”

ANZ is one of the only major banks in Australia to not have a deal with Australia Post’s bank@post service which allows customers to conduct everyday transactions like withdrawals and deposits via a local post office.

The Star Mail understands that a shift in Australia Post’s services, away from letter post-

ing, has meant the demand for banking services, since the closure of bank branches, has been a positive transition for its over the counter services.

With elderly residents making up the majority of people using face to face branches and post offices, comments on social media have left others concerned about the impact on this cohort.

“They still deal in cash, use post offices to pay bills, shop in their local shops, if they can’t drive they have caregivers to drive them about to do all their things, with smaller areas, towns closing banks they have to travel further and their packages are limited to times/travel,” one person said.

“I think it is irresponsible. Have they considered the aging population who depend on manual/face to face banking,” another person said.

Others weren’t so surprised, nor cared, stating they couldn’t remember the last time they went into a bank.

Calls for a return to a cash based society were also made, with people speaking of the rate of scams and breaches.

Mr Groves said access to 2600 fee-free ATMs from both ANZ and atmx, as well as some operated by other major banks, would assist Lilydale’s customers.

“Customers can also withdraw money using EFTPOS facilities at the Woolworths and Coles supermarket in Lilydale,” he said.

IN BRIEF

Coldstream collision

Two cars collided on Maroondah Highway, Coldstream at about 4.25pm on Wednesday 8 May.

Coldstream CFA, Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria responded to the callout.

Coldstream CFA captain Sean Bethell said the crew was paged to the accident that happened between Healesville and Coldstream at Maroondah Highway near Maddens Lane.

“When we attended, we found that there was a two-car collision with a fairly heavy impact with one patient not doing very well,” he said.

“Police and ambulance attended, and they looked after the two drivers of the cars while making sure traffic slowed down there.

“Our brigade assisted with the timing and cleaned up the roadway to make the place safe.”

One man in his 50s was transported by road ambulance to the Royal Melbourne Hospital with upper body injuries, in a stable condition.

The incident was deemed under control at 4.38pm and safe at 4.48pm.

Reprieve for borrowers

Borrowers have been spared more mortgage pain following the Reserve Bank of Australia’s decision to keep interest rates on hold for the fourth meeting in a row.

The board came to its decision on Tuesday 7 May after two days reviewing the the state of the economy and progress on inflation.

Heading into the meeting, forecasters were broadly in agreement the central bank would leave interest rates at 4.35 per cent - where they have been since November last year.

“Recent data indicates that, while inflation is easing, it is doing so more slowly than previously expected and it remains high,” the RBA said in a statement.

“The board expects that it will be some time yet before inflation is sustainably in the target range and will remain vigilant to upside risks.”

Rubbish dumping

The EPA is asking every Victorian who loves the bush to store the EPA hotline number 1300 EPA VIC (1300 372 842) in their mobile phone and report any dumped rubbish they find.

EPA’s Northeast regional manager Ben Kneebone says anyone camping, mountain biking, hiking or just having a barbecue in the bush could do their bit for the environment.

“Give us a prompt report and an accurate location of the dump site, and you are giving EPA a better chance of tracking down the culprit and making them pay the price,” he said.

Loads of waste dumped in the bush often include construction and demolition waste, hazardous materials like asbestos and rotting household rubbish.

EPA can issue regulatory notices and fines that start at more than $9,000 and can go well into the hundreds of thousands if the case goes to court. The court can also order the culprit to pay for the clean-up, which can cost even more than the fines. Cases involving small items of litter can be reported to your local council. Details online at epa.vic.gov. au/report-pollution/reporting-pollution

Lilydale Marketplace is set to lose to major banks from it’s centre with NAB and ANZ closing their branches. 234335

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

An underwhelming plan

By Mikayla van Loon, with AAP

It was what some have called a “no frills” 2024/25 State Budget, with the Premier saying it was “sensible and disciplined” at a time of inflationary pressures.

Spotlighting cost-of-living, family violence support, education and frontline services, this was shadowed by increasing debt, a $2.2 billion deficit, the delay or merging of project funding and a detail-lacking breakdown.

Heeding calls to curb infrastructure spending, the Melbourne Airport Rail was delayed by four years, while a $24 billion forecast for infrastructure in 2023/24 will come down to $15.6 billion by 2027/28.

Despite this,Victoria’s net debt is said to hit $187.8 billion by mid-2028, pushing up interest expenses to $9.4 billion annually.

It comes after Victoria’s credit rating took a hit, with Moody’s stripping Victoria of its AAA status in February 2021 and downgrading its rating from AA1 to AA2 in 2022.

S&P Global Ratings also downgraded Victoria’s credit rating two notches in 2020 from AAA to AA, the lowest rating of any Australian state or territory.

Credit rating downgrades make it more expensive for governments to service debt, leaving less money for hospitals, roads and schools.

Making the cost-of-living for families with school aged children more manageable was a focus of the budget, with the government’s headline announcement being a $400, one off payment to cover the cost of uniforms, excursions and supplies.

The $287 million fund is expected to support 700,000 students at government schools and eligible concession card holders from 2025.

But there was no change to residential stamp duty despite the treasurer flagging in March that an overhaul could be in the offing. In 2023, a parliamentary inquiry urged the Victorian government to look into scrapping stamp duty and replacing it with a broadbased land tax.

Treasurer Tim Pallas on Tuesday said it would not be “economically responsible” to make the change as it would essentially wipe off up to $9 billion of revenue each year.

The budget resulted in mixed reviews of the state’s leading organisations, some calling it a “stable budget”, others saying it did not go far enough.

“This is much more of a responsible spend and they’re recognising that it’s time to live within the means so in all, a no frills budget for business,” Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive Paul Guerra said.

“We’ve seen the impact of the failures of the justice system nationally. We could have done something this budget but we haven’t,” Sexual Assault Services Victoria chief executive Katheleen Maltzahn said.

Opposition Leader John Pesutto said the government had not done enough to reduce debt or provide cost-of-living relief.

“We will be spending more on interest than we spend on families,” he said.

Evelyn MP BridgetVallence echoed her party leader’s comments, calling out the projected debt and said it was “not a balanced budget”.

“We won’t let any child miss out on the things that make Victorian education great, so we’re giving families the flexibility to use the School Saving Bonus on the things they need.”

A program worth $6.8 million will assist a further 74,000 students in Prep to Grade 3 undergo vision testing and get

“The school saving bonus sits at the heart of our plan to ease cost-of-living pressures for families right across the state,” Premier Jacinta Allan said.

prescription glasses.

The Victorian Homebuyer Fund has been extended for one more year at a cost of $700 million, before the federal government sets up a national scheme.

The fund allows more would-be home buyers with a deposit of five per cent to get a foot onto the property ladder in exchange for a portion of its equity.

“This Budget will increase Victoria’s net debt to a staggering $188 billion dollars by 2027, which equates to $67,000 per Victorian household, and will result in an interest bill to service the debt of nearly $26 million per day,” she said.

“Imagine what could be achieved in our community for $26 million per day, and this is just going to pay down interest.”

We’re removing level crossings on the

Lilydale Line

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re removing 110 dangerous and congested level crossings, with 76 already gone.

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions

Lilydale Line From 8.30pm 24 May to early July On sections of the line

Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas and Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan are seen during the Victorian Budget delivery in Melbourne, Tuesday May 7 2024. Picture: AAP IMAGE/DIEGO FEDELE

DV response bolstered

By Callum Ludwig

In an otherwise fiscally conservative Victorian Budget for 2024/25, investment in addressing family violence stood out as a key focus of expenditure from the State Government.

The further investment brings Victoria’s investment into supporting family and sexual violence services to $3.8 billion since the 2015 Royal Commission into Family Violence, in which the Victorian Government announced in 2023 that all 227 recommendations had been implemented.

“We’re proud of our nation-leading reforms and we will continue working to keep women and children safe,” Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Vicki Ward said.

“We know that there is so much more to do. We want a Victoria that is free from family violence.”

$269 million has been committed to initiatives designed to prevent family violence and improve safety for women;

$42 million is directed to ‘deliver timely and individualised interventions and continued support’

$39 million has been set aside for schools and early childhood services to continue to deliver the Respectful Relationships program,

$24 million aims to bolster the informationsharing capabilities of police, courts and agencies through a Central Information Point

$16 million is dedicated to providing community-led and culturally safe responses to family violence in Aboriginal communities with Aboriginal women anywhere between 35 to 45 times more likely to experience violence than non-Aboriginal women.

A Victorian Government spokesperson said Victoria leads the nation with our work to strengthen how we prevent and respond to family violence and violence against women.

“We know we have more work to do for a fu-

ture where women, children and young people are safe,” they said.

“We support victims of family violence in Victoria with initiatives such as the state-wide Orange Door Network,”

“The budget includes measures to sustain support to victim survivors, drive down family violence and sexual assault, including funding for perpetrators to change their behaviour, and tools and guidance for working with children and young people.”

Since its opening in May 2022, The Orange Door Outer East with sites in Croydon and Belgrave has received more than 19,000 referrals and provided support to more than 21,000 people, including more than 8,800 children through outreach across the Maroondah, Knox and Yarra Ranges local government areas.

The Orange Door Outer East is delivered in partnership by Family Safety Victoria, Angli-

care, FVREE, VACCA, Boorndawan Willam Aboriginal Healing Service and Child Protection, aiming to provide access to coordinated help and support for family violence, and the wellbeing and development of children.

The Orange Door network consists of specialist family violence, child and family and Aboriginal services to provide crisis assistance and support, risk and needs assessment, safety planning and connection to other services with support offered face to face, or via telephone or email.

The Orange Door Outer Eastern Melbourne is open Monday to Friday between 9.00am and 5.00pm. For more information, call 1800 271 150 or visit orangedoor.vic.gov.au.

$76 million of funding is dedicated to supporting victim-survivors of family, domestic and sexual violence including providing access to therapies and support for children and

young people recovering from trauma of family violence or sexual abuse, measures to ensure they are safe in their own homes and support for staffing at Sexual Assault Services Victoria and training packages for practitioners.

Head of Service Design and National Practice Lead for Family Violence at EACH Olivia Sinn said their team of Financial Counsellors frequently support and advocate for people experiencing financial abuse: an under-recognised, poorly understood, but insidious form of family violence.

“Financial abuse is a key factor in perpetuating family violence, but is often not recognised because people do not recognise this as violence,” she said.

“Financial (or economic) abuse can include refusing to contribute to household expenses, stopping partners from working, preventing access to bank accounts, and taking out loans in a partner’s name,”

$6.8 million is specifically set to bolster financial counselling services for family violence victim-survivors, providing support to stabilise their financial position and recover from abuse.

Ms Sinn said EACH welcomes the continuation of funding from the Victorian Government in the budget to address the impact of financial abuse.

“Family violence is primarily about power and control,” she said.

“We can help keep more families free from violence by raising awareness, preventing, and better responding to financial abuse.”

In the corrections and justice system, $31 million is being poured into supporting the prosecution of family, domestic and sexual violence offences with $600,000 also committed to better educating and creating an understanding of family violence in the justice workforce.

Be part of a vibrant Community and enjoy the Facilities

Detail on road funding in the state budget was minimal. 400686

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

NEWS Missed in the state budget

By Mikayla van Loon and Dongyun Kwon

A scant detail State Budget has left many of the projects open to interpretation but what missed out, particularly in the Yarra Ranges, let’s take a look.

With family violence support and prevention earmarked for $211 million in funding and $28.8 million set aside for community legal centres, it came as a double edged sword for a local provider.

Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC) was “pleased” to learn a further four years of funding would be provided for its Mabels program but was “deeply disheartened” that no further funding had been budgeted for the expansion of its services despite the apparent gendered-violence “national crisis”.

“We are disappointed by the State budget announcement that does not recognise the apparent need for additional and ongoing funding for our services that are at the forefront of support for family violence victim-survivors that often face multifaceted, complex needs and require tailored and targeted legal advice and broader help,” ECLC chief executive officer Michael Smith said.

A call for a “sustained commitment” from both the State and Federal Governments has been on the agenda for community legal centres in the lead up to the National Legal Assistance Partnership (NLAP) review.

“There is very little in [the] budget for the Victorian community legal sector to get excited about,” Federation of Community Legal Centres chief executive officer Louisa Gibbs said.

“But we acknowledge that in a tight fiscal environment, existing programs of Community Legal Centres will continue to be funded.”

ECLC awaits the release of the Federal Budget on Tuesday 14 May “and hopes that the urgent challenges faced by CLCs will be recognised and addressed”.

While education was at the forefront of the budget, Yarra Ranges schools have missed out on upgrade funding totalling $753 million, with the closest school with ‘upgrades in planning’ being Croydon’s Melba College.

Universal pre-prep for four-year-olds has been delayed and will be rolled out by 2036 instead of 2032, citing workforce shortages as the reason for the push back.

Evelyn MP BridgetVallence has claimed the delivery of a promised 50 new childcare cen-

tres has been put “on hold”.

Similarly, 35 planned mental health and wellbeing locals will be set up slower than scheduled as Victoria cannot find the extra 2500 psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health nurses required to support the services.

“[This is] not only failing their obligation to implement the measures of the Mental Health Royal Commission but meaning it will remain hard for families to access vital mental health and wellbeing services,” Ms Vallence said.

A bulk amount of $964 million to maintain Victorian roads has been announced but details on where and what has been left out.

MsVallence said the true cost of road maintenance works was hard to decipher given the inclusion of flood recovery works but the total expenditure was “16 per cent less next year than it was four years ago”.

“Yet again there is no funding to fix known dangerous roads such as Warburton Highway at Seville East or to duplicate Mooroolbark Road at Hull Road in Mooroolbark, and the Budget is silent on the Maroondah Highway and Killara Road project, creating uncertainty about when this project will ever start.

The Department of Transport was contacted for comment to confirm which, if any, road maintenance projects had been allocated to

the Yarra Ranges.

RACV has also asked for better transparency from the State Government to understand which roads require repair to meet safety standards.

“Transparency of allocated road funding and areas where road improvements have been made will be key to tracking the areas where spend and upgrades are still required,” RACV head of policy James Williams said.

“Without this understanding, regional roads will miss out on integral funding that is key to ensuring a safe road network for all users.”

Premier Jacinta Allan said in her first delivery of a budget “we’re making the biggest multi-year investment in our healthcare system in our state’s history”.

Ongoing hospital funding of $8.8 billion, $146 million for Ambulance Victoria and $28 million to support the healthcare workforce were some of the headline announcements.

Despite this Maroondah Hospital, or the renamed Queen Elizabeth II Hospital, remains noted as in the planning stage alongside three other projects, with no capital works money allocated.

“Last year’s 2023-24 Budget allocated a small fund for the design and planning only,

and this has not yet commenced,” MsVallence said.

“So, for two Budget cycles the Allan Labor Government has the promised Maroondah Hospital upgrade as ‘in planning’ and there is absolutely no funding allocated for any capital works to achieve the promised ED and expansion of Maroondah Hospital.”

General practitioners (GPs) were also left dissatisfied by the $10 million for a co-designed grant program.

“While any investment in general practice care is always welcome, the Victorian Government’s $10 million to support GPs will not save us from the Patient Tax – it’s like putting a bandaid on a patient who’s lost both their legs,” Royal Australian College of General Practitioners Victoria chair Anita Munoz said.

“Victorians should be prepared for further crowding at hospitals and local GPs to be at breaking point.”

On the environment front, despite $270 million to protect waterways and catchments, $116 million to restore native forests, $85 million for biosecurity and $38 million to expand hot water rebates through SolarVictoria, Landcare Victoria was disappointed to learn the facilitators and coordinators program would not be funded.

“Eighty Facilitators and 10 Coordinators harness the power of more than 600 groups and tens of thousands of volunteers across the state, but right now they are under-resourced and lack job security,” Landcare Victoria chair Jane Carney said.

“With their contracts due to end in June next year, we’re going to struggle to hold onto these incredible leaders, who have an increasingly important role to play as governments wind back extension support and ratchet up biodiversity and climate commitments.”

Premier Allan admitted this budget was “challenging to put together” especially “in a domestic and global environment that faces many, many pressures”.

“Whether it’s the inflationary and interest rate pressures, the pressures of workforce shortages and what that means for project and service delivery, also too the global unrest, the ongoing impact of the pandemic,” she said.

“We simply can’t put our heads in the sand and ignore these circumstances as we have putting this budget together.”

Victorian Government supports food relief programs

By Dongyun Kwon

With the high cost of living pressure, the Victorian Government decided to support Neighbourhood Houses across the State by investing in their food relief program.

Carers and Volunteers Minister Ros Spence visited Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House (KRNH) to announce the $6 million investment in delivering food relief forVictorian families in the 2024-25 Victorian Budget on Friday 10 May.

This includes $2.5 million for the Neighbourhood Houses food relief program which provides grants to neighbourhood houses to deliver food relief where it’s needed most.

Ms Spence said noVictorian should worry about having enough to eat.

“That’s why we’re delivering more food relief to support Victorian families that are doing it tough,” she said.

“We’re supporting our neighbourhood houses because so many of them play an important role in getting food on the table for Victorians who need it most.”

KRNH has a long history of supporting communities across the Yarra Ranges through social events, activities, education, food relief, special interest groups and their free counselling program Be Well in the Ranges.

KRNH president Sue Zuber said she is happy with the new announcement.

“We all realised how desperate people are and they are not coping with the shortage of food,” she said.

“Neighbourhood Houses are an essential place in any community where the community know where they can go for help to get assistance, so this $2.5 million is going to make a huge difference.”

KRNH has a food storage that offers food every Wednesday afternoon.

“Clients can go into the room and choose what they can use to make meals,” Ms Zuber said.

“We’re open on Wednesday afternoon from 1pm to 3pm, but we’re also open for emergency relief.

“So if we hear there’s a family that’s in dire

straits and can’t make it in on Wednesday afternoon, we’ll invite them to come and organise some food relief for them.”

The neighbourhood house had to operate the food relief program by itself before this announcement.

The president said It was incredibly difficult to operate the food relief program without the Government’s support.

“We had to go in hand begging for the money. We would approach our local community,” Ms Zuber said.

“We asked supermarkets and food banks to access food.”

Ms Spence said the work that people do at neighbourhood houses is terrific.

“We’re really thankful for the work that they do and, in particular, during the cost of living crisis, we know that they do a large amount of work in providing food relief,” she said.

Ros Spence (left) and Sue Zuber in the food storage.

Pictures: DONGYUN KWON

The food storage.

Detail on road funding in the state budget was minimal. 400686

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

TAFE focus welcomed

By Mikayla van Loon

A total of $555 million has been allocated in the Victorian Budget for the TAFE education system, training and workforce pipeline, a welcome investment from the trades industry.

Majority of the funding, $394 million, will go towards the widening of free TAFE positions, while $113 million will be allocated to support services, training delivery and help for students.

A further $32 million will be put towards the upskilling and retraining of workers.

Mooroolbark qualified electrician and apprentice plumber Michael MacDonald said freeTAFE was a blessing as an adult apprentice with a family to support while upskilling.

“Wealth shouldn’t be a barrier to education. Someone’s financial status shouldn’t limit them to accessing education and this initiative, I’ve certainly benefited from,” he said.

“Because of free TAFE, I’ve actually been able to almost complete my licensing modules, I still have a couple more to go. But at the end of the day, it means I’ll be able to become a licensed plumber and gas fitter.

“Without free TAFE, it would have been probably almost impossible for me to make a sacrifice to upskill.”

Attracting more people to not only the building and construction industry but to hospitality and other vocational training courses, Mr MacDonald said will go a long way to reducing the workforce shortages.

“There is a skill shortage across the country and inVictoria…when people are weighing up decisions, whether to go to university, or to do a TAFE course, one of the benefits of going to TAFE is that you’re earning while you’re learning,” he said.

“If you do a TAFE course, particularly with free TAFE, you come out with a head start in life. So I think it’s going to attract people.”

The skill shortage, Mr MacDonald said, is the worst he’s ever seen so any step to bridging the gap will “make a big difference”.

“There is a high demand for skilled workers, particularly the licensed trades, plumbing and electrical.

“There are employers calling out for quality people and unfortunately, a lot of people are struggling to fill the gaps they need in their workforce.”

Although building and construction won’t be the only industry benefiting from the budget, with an above average participation rate in TAFE and training, it will impact the region

Tackling disinformation

By Callum Ludwig

The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) has teamed up with the University of Melbourne to help prepare local councillors to combat disinformation in local government. Set to be held over four weeks with a 42-hour commitment, the course will aim to help current or prospective councillors to deal with the threats posed by disinformation, misinformation, and malign influence (DDMI).

MAV CEO Kelly Grigsby said while there has been an increasing recognition about disinformation and its impacts on politics, the reason the MAV has partnered with The University of Melbourne is to provide a local government context.

“We’re encouraging councillors, potential councillors and local government professionals to consider the challenges so we can better respond to issues which arise around and after the upcoming elections,” she said.

“Disinformation is a growing problem for all levels of government across the globe. As the level of government closest and most open to the community they represent, this is particularly the case for local government,”

“It’s critical for councillors and council staff to have the skills to both recognise and manage disinformation in an effective way.”

The $1490 course is also recommended for intelligence analysts and cybersecurity specialists on the University of Melbourne website.

The targeted effort to educate and inform current and prospective councillors comes after a wave of disrupted council meetings around the state, including Yarra Ranges Council which suspended the gallery after ‘disruptive’ attendees became agitated by responses from councillors to conspiracy theories on 15-minute cities and 5G towers among others.

Yarra Ranges Council’s Director of Cor-

Councils including Yarra Ranges are being encouraged to take a course on disinformation ahead of the upcoming elections.

Picture: ON FILE

porate Services Andrew Hilson said any time there’s an opportunity for formal training, professional development or capacity building for either a current or prospective Councillor, we encourage them to take it up.

“Councillors and prospective candidates should consider the skills and knowledge they think will be important to assist them in fulfilling their role as a councillor, from a wide range of topics,” he said.

“Events or courses such as these are a great way to educate those in attendance on the many different aspects of being a Councillor, and how best to meet the demands of the role.”

O’Shannassy Ward Councillor Jim Child, who was mayor at the time of the disruptions to Yarra Ranges Council meetings, also told The Age that the course should be ‘mandatory’ for current or prospective councillors. Ms Grigsby said they are encouraging councillors, potential councillors and local government professionals to consider the challenges.

“It’s a highly practical course, which will examine the main players, their key tactics and techniques and, the cultural and psychological aspects of disinformation,” she said.

“It will also provide tips on building resilience and maligning the influence of disinformation and those spreading it.”

significantly.

Vocational education and training in the Yarra Ranges was recorded at above state and national averages in the Australian Bureau of Statistics 2021 Census.

It showed that 3,786 (8.7 per cent) people were attending TAFE, compared to the state’s 7.9 per cent and the national percentage of 7.8.

Empowered Women In Trades (EWIT)

founder Hacia Atherton also welcomed the announcement but said wellbeing support for apprentices was an important piece of the puzzle to ensure completion rates improve.

“The increase of $555 million, particularly the expansion of free spots, is a step in the right direction for attracting more people to trades, especially women and girls,” she said.

“However, to improve the completion rate and promote longevity in the industry, we need to prioritise psychological wellbeing at TAFE and at the workplaces of apprentices.”

Master Builders Australia found that over the year to September 2023, 42,333 apprentices started a career in the building and construction industry.

This, however, was a 25 per cent decrease on the previous 12 month period.

Completion rates also dropped 7.9 per cent, with 21,814 students finishing their training over the year to September last year.

“Teaching apprentices positive psychology principles will empower them to build the resilience needed to navigate the challenges of an apprenticeship and effectively handle stress and burnout,” Ms Atherton said.

“It’s not just about mastering technical skills; we must also invest in equipping apprentices to thrive psychologically and emotionally.”

Evelyn MP and shadow skills and training minister Bridget Vallence was a bit more critical of the budget, saying the funding didn’t make up for the 10 years of poor investment.

“Victoria has had the lowest funded TAFE system in the country for 10 years. Labor has been in government for the last 10 years,” she said.

“This Budget reveals the number of enrolments under the Allan Labor Government in the Free TAFE for priority courses has fallen, as did the number of government subsidised apprenticeship course enrolments.

“This State Budget has fallen well short of addressing the required pipeline of workers to tackle the dire shortage of skilled workers in Victoria.”

The 2024/25 Victorian Budget has allocated $555 million to the vocational training system. Picture: ON FILE

Tourism on the back burner

By Dongyun Kwon

The Victorian Government handed down the 2024-2025 state budget which has disappointed the local tourism industry with a lack of funds supporting Yarra Ranges tourism.

The priorities of the budget shifted to supporting families, weathering the cost-of-living crisis, and focusing on core social services of health, education and emergency services which caused the slashed support in tourism.

Victoria Tourism Industry Council CEO Felicia Mariani said there were few surprises given the industry was steeling itself for a very challenging budget hand down.

“In a tough fiscal environment this budget has clearly defined the priorities for the Victorian Government over the next four years, and the visitor economy will take a back seat to the delivery of core services and mitigating the strains of the current cost of living pressures,” she said.

“It’s incredibly hard to come to terms with the slashing of the destination marketing budget for Visit Victoria from $32.5 million in one year to $32.5 million over four years.

“This is a significant body blow in an environment where we are trying to overtake Queensland in the number two spot for total tourism spend, a position we forfeited during Covid.”

There is a drop in investment for major events and tourism with $183.8 million being spent compared to $469.8 million last year.

$32.5 million is provided over four years for the delivery of destination marketing activities to support Victoria’s visitor economy, $9.4 million over four years is provided to the Business Events Fund which attracts highyield and high-profile international business events to Victoria, and to the implementation and enforcement of the Major Events Act 2009, and $3.3 million is provided in FiscalYear 25 to support Victoria’s regional tourism boards and visitor economy partnerships.

Another $11 million is spent to support the work of the Great Outdoors Taskforce, which will work on developing future uses of the State forests and $4.5 million is for the Victorian Festivals Fund, further strengthening the State’s events calendar.

Yarra Ranges Tourism CEO Simon O’Callaghan said the impact of less major events funding would no doubt have a knockon effect for the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.

“It is probably premature to gauge what

that might look like, given we rely on promoting our region as a value add visitation opportunity to those coming to Melbourne for events from regional Victoria or Interstate,” he said.

“Several of the core events that see an uplift in visitation to our region will continue, such as the Australian Open, Spring Racing Carnival and Grand Prix. Many of our local signature events, like the Tesselaar Flower Festivals, Rochford Concerts and Belgrave Lantern Festival, will also continue to support regional visitation as they are privately owned and operated.

“The funding announced will still allow our region to bid for funds, for the right activity, such as when we hosted the Rone Empire exhibition at Burnham Beeches several years ago.”

Despite the slashing, Mr O’Callaghan hopes that the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges tourism sector gets enough support from the State Government as a major employer of lo-

cal jobs.

He said Yarra Ranges Tourism identifies an area which is needing the support of the State Government.

“An area identified by our Destination Management Plan needing greater support is the servicing and maintenance of civic infrastructure, such as our National Parks, Forests and Waterways, along with the funding programs that support local governments to enhance their public spaces that both locals and visitors enjoy,” he said.

“Ongoing, we are striving to achieve greater night-time activity for the region and attract off-peak visitation, so support for such initiatives will remain important for us as Melbourne’s population continues to grow.

“We are also aware of future programs that will support the region from the Commonwealth Games support package that was previously announced.” The latest budget also

announced the delay of the Melbourne Airport Rail Link project by a minimum of four years which makes it hard for Victoria to attract tourists interstate and internationally.

“This is a critical piece of infrastructure in cementing our position as a global destination, and we need to see some movement toward compromise and resolution,” Ms Mariani said.

Mr O’Callaghan said, however, the Yarra Ranges needs to solve the problem of local transport prior to considering the Airport Rail.

“With three train lines on the edge of our region, Airport Rail will be an essential part of the transport mix for interstate and international visitors into the future,” he said.

“However, in the short term, we need to improve local transport solutions throughout the region for visitors across both the public and private sectors to achieve more sustainable travel outcomes.”

State budget investment in emergency management

By Emma Xerri

The 2024/25 Victorian State Budget has allocated more than $16 million towards future emergency management response.

With $9.5 million of those funds going towards ensuring Victorians and emergency service organisations have the most up-todate emergency information, advice and warnings, residents of the Hills who have long suffered from poor access to emergency information may have cause for optimism.

However, for Rescue Logs founder, and former Hills resident Julia Hill, this optimism must come with caution.

“All I can say is that as a Hills community, we should not have to be worried about being able to get through when we have an emergency,” she said.

“As a consequence of living in the hills and having such bad communications, I am really conscious on hot windy days to have the radio going with the emergency services radio station playing, and making sure I’ve got the weather reports coming up on my internet.

“So for most of us that are young and fit, we just change the way we manage the information we get.

“But the flip side, for the elderly in the area, is that they’re not so connected, because they don’t tend to be on things like Facebook. And so unfortunately, they miss out on a lot of information.”

Long time Emerald SES volunteer Ben Owen is also all too familiar with the commu-

nication difficulties that have long plagued the Hills community.

“If there is to be an enhancement of emergency warnings going out, that would be an advantage,” he said.

“We have storms that come through quite

rapidly, so we need new ways of sharing those warnings in a timely manner.

“But I would obviously like to see more sustainable telecommunication systems in the hills when power goes out. That would probably be a better, or equally important, way to spend the funds.”

However, as a member of the SES, Mr Owen is also intrigued to see what the $6.9 million budget allocation to the State Emergency Service will mean for his branch, which has long been underfunded.

“My early indications from the budget were that SES were going to take a cut. So, if the budget allocation means an additional $6.9 million on top of what we normally receive, then that’s fantastic. But if it’s $6.9 million for one thing, and other areas are going to miss out, then that’s a real concern.

And these uncertainties are shared by VICSES, who said “we’re still awaiting the full details from Tuesday’s announcement and the overall impact on our budget.

“We’ll continue to work collaboratively with the State Government to advocate for our needs to support our SES volunteers and their fantastic service to the community.”

Meanwhile Mr Owen maintains that when it comes to SES funding, the government has a long way to go.

“Our unit gets about a third of what we need to run per year from the government and the rest we’ve got to make up.

“I’m here today, ready to open up our CDS program where we collect containers. But we get 10 cents per container to put vehicles on the road, put fuel in the trucks, buy equipment, and put electricity on site.

“Our volunteers who are here today could be out there training or providing community education instead of having to fundraise.”

NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE WEEK

Decade of Mt Evelyn house

Established in 2014, Mt Evelyn Community House Inc has been a beacon of support for its community.

Funded by the State Government and Yarra Ranges Council, we offer a diverse range of low-cost and no-cost classes, workshops, and events, fostering connection and skills development in safe spaces.

Our Reading Room service, managed by our volunteers, provides access to library resources and recently expanded with the Engage and Explore area, thanks to the support of Mount Evelyn Community Bank. This addition offers families a vibrant space for reading, playing, and exploring together.

Our Pathways for Carers program offers monthly walks on the Warburton Trail, providing not only exercise but also opportunities for carers to connect and share experiences. With workshops subsidised by Yarra Ranges Community Grants, we continue to grow, welcoming new carers and offering diverse programs. Behind our success are our committee and passionate staff to making a difference.We prioritise community engagement, driving our programs and ensuring participants feel nurtured and supported.

From early years to retirees, our programs cater to all ages and interests, promoting social connections and reducing isolation. As we celebrate our 10th Birthday during Neighbourhood HouseWeek, themed‘StrongerTogether’; we launch new workshops and social groups. Ourorganisation’sjourneyhasbeenmarked by support from partners, stakeholders, and our vibrant community. Mt Evelyn Community House is more than a service; it's a vital asset, enriching lives and fostering a sense of belonging. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our partners, and the community for their unwavering support.

Join Us!

Neighbourhood and Community Houses are welcoming places for

range of activities, social interaction and skills learning. Why not join us?

Here at Lilydale Community House we offer a variety of classes and social activities which vary from term to term. Most are low or no cost. Here are some of our regular activities:

SOCIAL

Soup & Stories

Mondays 11am–1pm. Learn how to make a different soup each week and enjoy chatting and eating together. Free Step & Connect Women’s Social Walks Thursdays 9.30am sharp

Facilitated by Inspiro, this weekly walk welcomes women to join for a cuppa and take a fun and relaxed walk around the area. Meet at Lilydale Community House. Free

CREATIVE

Paint, Draw, Create, Explore Mondays 10.30–12.30pm Try your hand at painting, drawing, collage or other creative media, no experience required, just explore the possibilities! Gold coin donation

MUSIC

The Singing Circle Thursdays 1.30-3.00pm Bring your shower voice and experience the joy and laughter of singing just because you want to.

Beginners Guitar Tuesdays 6-7pm

Learn how to play the guitar, starting with the basics.

LANGUAGE

Beginners’ German Wednesdays 6.30-8.00pm. Learn basic German.

COOKING

Cooking for One Thursdays – A 5 week program each term 11am-1.00pm. Learn to cook just for one, enjoying good recipes and tips, and eating together.

FITNESS & HEALTH

Qi Gong & Tai Chi Mondays 6.30-8pm. Learn coordinated body posture and movement, breathing and meditation.

Exercise for Older Adults Fridays 11–11.45am. Strengthen your body through the right exercise.

Pathways for Carers on a monthly walk of the Lilydale to Warburton rail trail.

Picture: SUPPLIED

NEWS Independent funds focus

By Callum Ludwig

A community-driven push for independent candidates is set to be bolstered by further fundraising efforts from Climate 200, provided their values on climate change, political integrity and gender equity among others align.

The marginal seats of Casey and Deakin are on the list of target areas in Climate 200’s Community Accelerator Fund, with Liberal MPs Michael Sukkar and Aaron Violi having only claimed victory over Labor candidates at the last election with margins of 0.2 and 1.5 per cent respectively.

Climate 200 Executive Director Byron Fay said they know from history that it often takes at least two attempts to win as an independent.

“Independent campaigns that might come a close second leave fertile ground for the next independent to win the seat,” he said.

“Strong, local community groups, like the ‘voices of’ groups, are critical to the success of independent campaigns. They find the candidates that represent the community and build the groundswell of support through engaging with voters.”

The Voices 4 Casey group began their search for an independent candidate in January 2022 prior to that year’s election and settled on Claire Ferres Miles, a resident of the electorate who stepped down from her role as CEO of Sustainability to run. Ms Ferres Miles’ campaign was launched 75 days out from the election and was announced alongside funding of over $10,000 from Climate 200.

Mr Fay said Climate 200 was established to help community independent campaigns compete against the major party machines.

“These local groups are volunteer-run and reach into their own pockets to fund things like events and advertising. The more support they can get from the community, including donors, the greater their chance of scaling up and being successful,” he said.

“As history shows, with the right support, community-backed independents can absolutely win,”

“Polling shows that voters are turning away from the major parties and looking to park their votes with community-selected independents who truly represent their interests.”

Ms Ferres Miles secured 8.34 per cent of the vote in Casey in 2022, behind the Liberal, Labor and Greens candidates.

The Community Independents Project (CIP) is continuing to campaign for more community groups such as Voices groups to be established and provide the grounds for people being at the centre of politics, according to CIP Director and the founder of the Voices 4 Indi group Alana Johnson.

“The current provisions for how we campaign in Australia make it very difficult for an independent who has to raise their own funds in order to run a campaign and certainly we all have different opinions about whether there should be tax put on campaign spending, which seems obvious to me., but it leaves independent candidates in a very difficult position,” she said.

“I think the availability of funding is a really important part of shifting the dial in Australia from the dominance of the two-party system,

or any party system for that matter,”

“I also believe though that the community independents movement has to make sure that it continues to be anchored by the communities who get behind the campaign and raise their own funds, and that we don’t just end up with a system of candidates putting their hand up and getting funded by an outside force.”

Ms Johnson was present for the launch of the Voices 4 Casey campaign in February 2022 and as a founding member of Voices 4 Indi group, which neighbours the Casey electorate, helped elect independent candidate Cathy McGowan in 2013, and then began the first seat to reelect an independent candidate to replace a retiring independent MP when current Indi MP Helen Haines was successful in 2019.

Ms Johnson said CIP continue to talk about how there are numerous ways to win and unfortunately, the only notion of winning that gets spoken about or reported about is actually

winning the seat.

“There are many wins to be had for communities, the whole notion of community independents is based on the fact that people, ordinary people in communities come together and say we want representation, better representation, of somebody who actually represents us and our views and is not locked into party policy,” she said.

“The two-party system isn’t the only way we can have government and the two-party system isn’t the only way that we have representation, in fact, ordinary people can feel a great hope in the fact that they may well be better represented through an independent,”

“Even when you look at electorates where their candidate didn’t get elected in the last federal election, the benefits and the wins for the community have been enormous because people have shifted their views and are looking very differently at the two-party system.”

The Voices of Deakin group has established an online presence via a website, private Facebook group and X (formerly Twitter) account and opened up a community sentiment survey for Deakin residents to share their thoughts and views on what matters to them.

Ms Johnson said there is no recipe for a community independent group, every community finds its own way of doing things.

“I must acknowledge that Climate 200 always say that funding goes to communities who are going to support a candidate, they don’t just pick willy-nilly ‘winner-type’ candidates out of nowhere, they’re looking at communities who are doing the work and the communities who are taking the lead,” she said.

“What happens in each individual electorate depends more on how the community has organised themselves more than it does on the candidate and if there’s a process where the community invites people to consider being candidates and then has a process for interviewing them and selecting them, then that candidate has a head chance anyway because all of a sudden they’ve got this particular community who’s chosen them and is behind them from the start,”

“The most successful win for everybody, including democracy and community, is for the candidate to be brought forth by the community.”

Push to protect food supply capacity in face of sprawl

By Mikayla van Loon

Leading agriculture organisations in the Yarra Ranges have put forward a case for protecting the region’s food supply capacity and reducing the harms of the urban sprawl.

Recent submissions to an upcoming State Government inquiry by Agribusiness Yarra Valley, Yarra Ranges Council and Keep Yarra Valley Fruit Fly Free brought into perspective the effects of the peri-urban categorisation and the importance of the green wedge.

TheYarra Ranges is a key production zone for berry and orchard fruits, wine grapes, beef and grain, with floriculture and other forms of horticulture, including nursery plants known in the area.

Agribusiness Yarra Valley stated in its submission that horticulture alone employs 6000 seasonal workers during harvest season, with a farm gate value of approximately $700 million.

The Yarra Valley’s wine industry is also said to contribute upwards of $100 million to the Victorian economy.

But as production costs, biosecurity threats, climate change and higher rates impact farmers in the region, the fear of losing an important cohort of people and the arable land is a real challenge.

Further impacted by the peri-urban classification, Agribusiness Yarra Valley submitted that this hinders the farming community because they “are not eligible to apply for government grants or initiatives that other regional and rural council areas in the State are eligible for”.

“Urban Sprawl and demand for land in the Yarra Ranges has driven up the value of

Submissions from local agricultural groups and the council have outlined the impact of the urban sprawl and planning controls on food supply in a new inquiry. Picture: ON FILE

farmland to the point where it is becoming economically unviable to farm. The farming community is ageing, and many are ceasing farming operations all together,” the submission added.

Keep Yarra Valley Fruit Fly Free regional coordinator Bronwyn Koll shared similar concerns based on her own family’s experience.

“In my experience, the urban sprawl has pushed my family and farming relatives over three generations from what are now inner and outer east Melbourne suburbs to the typical ‘Yarra Valley’ locations we currently farm,” she said.

“The Yarra Valley is now fast following the same demise, becoming full of ‘lifestyle’ parcels or subdivision lots in the peri-urban space, forcing farmers to farm with greater constraints, or affordability of rates is pushing them ‘further out’.”

Star Mail has previously reported on the push for a reclassification to peri-regional

by Yarra Ranges Council to not only improve funding opportunities but to support the extensive green wedge zone in the shire.

The Yarra Ranges is 2500 square kilometres, with approximately 30,000 hectares of land being used for farming.

The council’s submission claimed that “agriculture is the fifth largest industry generating $785.8m in gross revenue, $493 in regional exports and employs 2167 people”.

Keeping the urban growth boundary (UGB) “unchanged” was key to the council’s submission, given the “ongoing latent pressures to expand urban development into some adjoining green wedge areas”.

Protecting the agricultural land but allowing easier planning controls for farmers to adapt to changing climates, whether that be the need to erect sheds or greenhouses, the council said would be a fine balance but an essential part of ensuring the longevity of farming.

Increasing pressure to diversify traditional farms to agritourism would also require balance, despite the economic benefit of ancillary uses like accommodation, function centres, exhibition centres, restaurants, and concerts and events.

“While these land uses have potential to support tourism and economic development, they can also conflict with nearby agricultural land and activities for a wide range of reasons, from amenity to use of local roads,” the council said.

The planning controls around these uses and farm gates, the council stated, would need to be explored and regulated by the State Government to protect food supply.

Agribusiness Yarra Valley also wanted to

see the introduction of‘Right to Farm’ laws to protect agricultural land.

As a region Ms Koll said the biosecurity threats are increasing with everything from noxious weeds to foxes and deer, as well as Queensland fruit fly.

“Biosecurity in a peri-urban space is more difficult to achieve than compared to a more traditional farming zone, where there is more unity in the approaches taken, and options to take actions that can’t be taken in a peri urban environment,” she said.

Yarra Ranges Council also held its concerns about the impact of dumping soil from larger urban developments such as the level crossing removal in green wedge areas.

“Unmanaged soil and earth storage can negatively impact waterways, ecosystems, landscapes, habitat, and agricultural land, increase truck traffic on rural roads, and cause dust and noise impacts.”

The Legislative Assembly Environment and Planning Committee’s food supply inquiry looks to create a viable future for periurban farmers and food manufacturers.

“With our state’s population expected to rise above 10 million by the 2050s we must ensure we have enough arable land to sustain all of our food production needs,” Committee Chair Juliana Addison said.

“Agriculture and farming industries crucially provide the fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy and countless other foods all of us rely on every day.”

Public hearings will be held throughout May with a final report expected no later than 31 December this year.

Voices 4 Casey’s endorsed candidate for the 2022 election Claire Ferres Miles at her campaign launch. Picture: ON FILE

NEWS Crash hotspots predicted

By Callum Ludwig

A new study from Flinders University is calling for better policies and practices to be implemented to improve road safety, with the ‘mountainous’ Yarra Ranges and Cardinia identified as likely hotspots for increased road crashes in the future.

Dr Ali Soltani and his research colleagues from the Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute analysed the trends and locations of crashes in the Greater Melbourne Area between 2006 and 2020.

Dr Soltani and his colleagues used the data over the 15-year period to determine the most common places for crashes and likely reasons for the high crash rates.

Dr Soltani said road safety has been a policy priority in Australia for decades but the rate of road transport injuries is not declining.

“While the Australian Federal Government and State Governments have introduced policies and initiatives including road safety campaigns, infrastructure improvements, speed restrictions and graded licencing process – along with imposing safety regulations for vehicles sold in Australia, as well as sanctions and repercussions for reckless driving – we still see that traffic crashes remain alarmingly high,” he said.

Dr Soltani also noted that hospitalisation rates have increased in the last nine years and there has been no decline in hospitalisations where there’s a ‘high threat to life’ despite continuous pushes for road safety improvements.

A prediction of crash frequency forecasts an increase in road crash incidents in Cardinia and the Yarra Ranges. ‘Space-time analysis of accident frequency and the role of built environment in mitigation’

Researchers developed a Tweedie distribution model to examine how crash frequency and potential contributing factors such as socio-demographics, road transport infrastructure and the built environment interact to predict road crash rates and create risk ratings for the different local government areas in Melbourne in an effort to offer insight into where road safety action should be prioritised and what initiatives should be implemented.

Dr Solanti said investigating road crash temporal and spatial patterns are essential to build better prevention strategies that target high-crash times and areas, distribute resources more efficiently, improve emergency response times, and assess road safety initiatives.

“Analysing the space-time data may improve Victorian policy and support evidencebased actions for a safer, more resilient transportation infrastructure,” he said,

“Special land use activities such as commercial and parkland can affect road safety, and knowing how built environment variables contribute to crashes can help building safer

roads and minimise injuries and deaths.”

To reduce the frequency of road crashes, researchers are calling for a comprehensive strategy to address the effect of built environment on road traffic crashes and for critical measures such as lowering speed limits in local streets to be implemented.

“It is anticipated that downtown Melbourne will continue to be the primary location for crash hotspots, while the inner suburbs are expected to have a decrease in the occurrence of crashes, thereby enhancing safety levels,” Dr Soltani said.

The study names Knox as one of the LGAs with the strongest overall downward trend in accident frequency from 2016 to 2021.

The Star Mail contacted the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning (DOTP) for a response to the study.

“Keeping Victorians safe is our number one priority that’s why we’re working closely with police and councils to improve road safety across our communities,” a DOTP spokesperson said.

Road safety projects recently delivered in the Yarra Ranges and Cardinia areas have consisted of upgrades to pedestrian crossings, electronic speed limit signage in busy areas, rumble strip line markings, safety barriers, and shoulder sealing.

The DOTP has also committed $210 million to the Safe Local Roads and Streets Program to support local councils to deliver safety improvements on high-risk local roads, intersections, and precincts.

The research – “Space-time analysis of accident frequency and the role of built environment in mitigation”, by Ali Soltani and Mohsen Roohani Qadikolaei – has been published in the Transport Policy journal and can be viewed at doi.org/10.1016/j.tranpol.2024.02.006

Picture: FLINDERS UNIVERSITY

Dorothy’s 100th party

Dorothy Taylor celebrated her 100th birthday in April with most of the 40 members of her immediate family, including 11 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren all in attendance. Dorothy, with her husband, Eric, moved to their acre block in Colchester Road, Kilsyth after their marriage in 1949. They raised three children and lived in the family home for 40 years.They sold their block toWalmsleyVillage and moved to Mooroolbark. After the death of her husband, Dorothy eventually moved into a unit at Walmsley Village in 1998, where she still lives today.

Prior to her marriage, Dorothy served for three-and-a half years during World War II in the WAAF (Women’s Auxiliary Air Force). She

was very involved in the pre-school and primary school at Kilsyth in the Mothers’ Clubs for many years in the ‘50s and ‘60s. Dorothy keeps in contact with her family and grandchildren through ‘WhatsApp’ on her iPad. She loves receiving photos of her great grandchildren through ‘WhatsApp’. Over the years, she has enjoyed knitting for all the grandchildren and great grandchildren and this was especially so during the years of the Covid pandemic when she seldom ventured outside and knitted over 20 jumpers and other items. Up until that time, and at the age of 95, Dorothy was still driving herself to water aerobics at eight o’clock two mornings a week.

Aurora lights bring delight

The Aurora Australis put on a show for Upwey resident Andrew Kreibich who followed the colourful skies.

Pictures: ANDREW KREIBICH

The colour show changed throughout time, seeing first a faint green glow before it astonished with reds

Dorothy Taylor at her 100th birthday celebrations with her extended family. Picture: SUPPLIED

Joyful reunion with dog

By Callum Ludwig

A dashing Dachshund was emotionally reunited with his family on the first weekend of May after 10 long weeks.

Bruno became the subject of searches throughout the Yarra Valley after escaping from a pet sitter in Launching Place on 16 February.

Bruno’s owner Darlene Young said they were extremely worried.

“We came down from Mudgee in New South Wales down to the Yarra Valley seven times in the 10 and a half weeks he was missing,” she said.

“It’s hard because we had to we had to work so we could only come down on the weekend, we were leaving on Friday night driving all the way down there, walking around and looking for him and then driving back in the early hours of Sunday morning because my partner Andrew has to start work on Sunday night.”

Mudgee is more than a10-hour drive from the Yarra Valley, located in the Central West area of New South Wales.

Upon hearing about Bruno’s disappearance and being two of the many local residents who felt awful for the Young family, Sherri Johnston and Tracey Kelly helped lead the dedicated search and rescue effort for Bruno in the Yarra Ranges.

Mt Evelyn resident Ms Kelly said they started a campaign of printing things about Bruno and putting them up on the Lilydale to Warburton trail which Bruno seemed to use.

“I think everybody on the rail trail knew him and people would stop and ask about him when Darlene was there. It was plastered everywhere on, every community site and by doing that, that’s how we got sightings,” she said.

“The whole Yarra Valley was looking for him in the end.”

A ‘Help Find Bruno’ Facebook page that was set up garnered over 1000 followers, giving regular updates on sightings over the months he was missing.

Ms Kelly said their task was made harder by the fact Bruno would bolt if anyone tried to approach him.

“We had to put it out there in our posters to not approach Bruno at all, so instead we were trying to ground him somewhere, so he felt safe,” she said.

“We had the owners sending down scent items to be ripped up and placed, we had trails of food everywhere and people were putting out food stations for him, but we seemed to be one step behind the whole time.”

A number of lost animal assistance groups noted the situation and came onboard to help or offer advice including Pearl’s Army based in the Cardinia area, which Ms Johnston is a part of, Annette from the My Dog Is Missing group and Lyn from the Milly’s Search and Trap Community Group Facebook group.

After weeks of Bruno being sighted at townships all over the Valley, even venturing out to Gruyere and Coldstream and seemingly crossing the Warburton Highway multiple times.

Bruno was at one point almost pinned down on a property in Gruyere, but the search team only had access to a neighbour’s property and he moved on.

Not long after Bruno was caught on camera at a property in Coldstream belonging to Tasma Murdoch and her partner Nick, who were aware of the search and kindly opened up access to their property to help bring Bruno home.

Ms Murdoch said they first saw him on their property around 30 March but he hadn’t reappeared until late April.

“I kept in contact with Tracey after we first sighted him and she contacted me around 17 April to say he had been in the area, so that’s when I started putting out food for him here to try and attract him to our property and ground him so that he could be captured,” she said.

“We first spotted him on our property on 21 April, we came around the side of the garage and he was coming up our paddock and as soon as he spotted us, I turned around and went to go in the house and he just ran,”

“I was putting out sardines which are his favourite food and the scent items before he managed to ground him and I think if no one grounded him on a property, that dog wouldn’t have survived unfortunately because it’s getting colder.”

Video footage showed Bruno stepping foot into the trap just before 6pm on Tuesday 30 April and was reunited with his family the very next weekend.

Ms Young said the moment they found out he was safe, everyone was in tears.

“He’s going to be one very spoiled little dog though we still don’t let him outside without him being on a lead because he’s still traumatised about everything that’s happened,” she said.

“He went to the vet on Monday and apart from a few little cuts on his ears, he’s got a clean bill of health, the vet was amazed at

what great condition he was in after fending for himself for 10 and a half weeks,”

“We can’t thank everyone enough for helping bring Bruno home.”

Once Bruno is settled back into home life again, the Young family intend to revisit the Yarra Valley and hold a gathering for all the community members who helped in the search effort to bring Bruno home and will contact the

Mail to share details.

Star

Bruno getting plenty of attention from owners Andrew and Darlene. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Andrew and Darlene Young (front) with Tasma and Nick Murdoch (back) whose property Bruno was caught on.

Bruno with Tracey Kelly who helped lead the search.

Reunited with Dachshund buddy Dixi.

Searcher Sherri Johnston with Bruno.

Lots of kisses for Mum!

EDUCATION WEEK Ghilgai day of discovery

Tucked away among the trees on the high side of Liverpool Road in Kilsyth, there stands a remarkable little school that has been quietly serving families for over 40 years. And yet, according to Ghilgai Steiner School Principal Annabel Brown, ‘for a long time Ghilgai has been a real hidden gem.’

As the new leader of the Prep to Grade 6 school, Brown is out to change that. “

The education on offer at Ghilgai is exceptional, and our teachers are dedicated and highly skilled. Along with our specialist programs in music, handwork, movement and language, we have a strong emphasis on building the solid academic foundations that enable a child to fulfil their potential throughout their lives,” Brown said.

“As a small school community with 150 places, we provide an environment where every child and every family is seen, known and valued - and that human connection is what children need today more than ever. Ghilgai children love coming to school, and when we see that, we know that we’re fulfilling on our purpose of providing education for a flourishing world.”

On Saturday 25 May, Ghilgai Steiner School is welcoming the public to come in and get a taste of what actually happens in the classrooms each day.

“When families come for a personal tour and speak with our wonderful teachers, the comment we hear over and again is ‘I wish I

could come and be in your class!’. So, recently our teachers got together and began making plans for this special day where people can do just that,” Brown said.

“On 25 May, adults will be able to come and be guided in mini-lessons by teachers from across the school. As well as seeing how literacy and numeracy teaching are approached at Ghilgai, parents will experience storytelling, music, Bothmer gymnastics and even handwork. Best of all, teachers will be available to answer all your questions and hear about the needs of your child and their journey so far.”

The Ghilgai Discovery Day is taking place from 9am to 12.30pm on Saturday 25 May. To book your place or arrange a personal tour, contact Enrolments Officer Michelle McAulay on 9761 8369 or email enrol@ghilgai.vic.edu. au.

Come discover Ghilgai Steiner School. Picture: SUPPLIED

EDUCATION WEEK

Explore at Mooroolbark

At Mooroolbark Grammar, we are committed to providing individualised education for each and every one of our students. We believe that every child is unique, with their own set of strengths and areas for development, and our goal is to help each student reach their full potential. To achieve this, we have a strong focus on goal setting and individualised programs, tailored to meet the specific needs and abilities of each student.

Our composite classrooms allow us to create a flexible learning environment, where we can cater for students at all levels of ability. If a student needs additional support in a particular subject area, we have the ability to cut back a level for them, providing the extra attention and resources needed to help them catch up. Alternatively, if a student is excelling in a subject area, we can extend their learning beyond the curriculum, providing challenging opportunities to help them reach their full potential.

At Mooroolbark Grammar, we offer a range of specialised programs that set us apart from other private primary schools in the Mooroolbark area. Our focus on these programs ensures that our students receive a well-rounded education that fosters their individual strengths and abilities. These educational programs provide our students with the skills and knowledge they need to excel academically and socially, giving them a competitive edge in today’s world.

Some of our programs include 7-Steps to Writing, Applied Scholastics – focusing on teaching students to study technology to increase understanding and application of what they are learning, Maths-U-See, School Sports Victoria Membership, Horse Riding and much much more.

Come explore our campus and what we have to offer your child.

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Come explore Mooroolbark Grammar.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Even horse riding has a place as a learning experience.

EDUCATION WEEK

A new chapter of growth

As we reflect on the remarkable journey of Edinburgh College, formerly known as Lilydale Adventist Academy, we celebrate not just our storied past but also the vibrant path forward, marked by significant transformations and spiritual enrichment.

Six decades ago, our institution embarked on a mission defined by faith and learning. Today, as we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we stand on the cusp of a bright, promising future guided by divine providence.

‘O taste and see that the Lord [our God] is good; how blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favoured by God] is the one who takes refuge in Him’ (Psalms 34:8).

This verse has been the bedrock of our journey, especially over the past decade; a period of profound growth and achievement.

In 2016, a pivotal change unfolded; renaming our institution to Edinburgh College and strategically amalgamating the Early Learning Centre, Primary and Secondary Schools under one governance structure. This transformation has led to a doubling of enrolments across these stages, reflecting the community’s trust and our commitment to providing a holistic education.

Our campus has seen significant enhancements, with the construction of nine new classrooms and learning areas, including two rooms in the Early Learning Centre and seven in the Primary School. The Secondary School has not been left behind, with major refurbishments to the front office, food technology, and science facilities, signalling our dedication to academic excellence.

Moreover, the continuous improvement of our grounds signifies the love and care that the community pours into this much-cherished campus. The expansion of subject choices and out-of-classroom experiences further enrich

our students’ educational journey, ensuring they receive a well-rounded and robust educational experience.

As we project into the future, enrolments are expected to soar to over 700 students from Prep to Year 12 by 2028. This growth is not merely in numbers but also in the depth of character, resilience, and faith instilled in our students.

The 60th Anniversary weekend commenced with a heartwarming alumni reunion. Laughter and memories echoed within the

Language Centre walls that once housed the dreams and aspirations of boarding students when the building was used as the first on-site dormitory. Our After Hours worship team led the opening of the Sabbath with a song and devotional. The evening was a testament to the enduring spirit of community that defines Edinburgh College.

Pastor James Stanley said it was great to see the Alumni community worship together on the Sabbath.

“The spirit of Jesus was lifted high through

praise and worship, and the stories of the Alumni guests highlighted the unique legacy of the school and its contribution to Christian service, both locally and abroad,” he said.

Saturday saw a congregation of over 400 united in faith and gratitude for the journey that brought us here. From musical medleys spanning the decades to heartfelt interviews with alums, each moment was a tribute to the rich tapestry of our history. This led to a band and choir session conducted by MrWoody and his son Clinton.

The Alumni Gala Dinner shimmered with charisma and camaraderie as the legacy of Edinburgh College was honoured with speeches that resonated with pride and plans that pointed towards a promising future. Aaron Violi, MP, spoke about how Edinburgh gives choices in education to our community. Reynold Gilson shared his memories and dedicated his Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) to his grandfather, WJ Gilson, founder of LAA/ Edinburgh College and Bruce Gilson. The current school captains, William Hopkins and Tiarey Croft, shared their positive experiences at Edinburgh College and thanked the alumni for their legacy, which remains a blessing.

On Sunday’s Open Day, more than a thousand visitors were welcomed, offering a glimpse into Edinburgh College’s vibrant learning environment. Fireworks illuminated the night sky as a fitting climax to a weekend imbued with gratitude and grace.

As Edinburgh College continues to thrive, we remain committed to transforming lives through God’s love and grace. We invite you to join us in this journey of faith, learning, and excellence. Here’s to many more years of blessing and growth at Edinburgh College, where faith and a commitment to excellence underpin every step forward.

EDUCATION WEEK

New principal for campus

Yarra Hills Secondary College has celebrated Leighton O’Donnell as its newly appointed substantive principal for the Mount Evelyn Campus.

Leighton is a dedicated principal who brings over 16 years of educational expertise to theYarra Hills community.

After successfully completing the highly coveted Monash University UP Program in Principal Preparation back in 2019, Leighton has already led the school’s learning improvements with the current Yarra Hills principal team for 5 years. Cultivating strong links to the College values, Leighton is focused on maintaining high expectations of his students, whilst using a data-driven approach to cater for myriad learning styles and lead to improved student outcomes.

The change is well underway.

“Yarra Hills is seen as a forward-thinking STEAM school, offering students extension programs in IT, product design and flight simulation”.

The College also works closely with its feeder Primary school staff, collaborating future technological trends and joint extension programs in both Literacy and Art. This provides an inclusive, engaging, and challenging learning environment that nurtures curiosity, fosters creativity, and provides a smooth transition from Grade 6 toYear 7.

Leighton is committed to creating a comprehensive and compelling curriculum that supports academic and social-emotional development, while fostering strong partnerships with parents/guardians and the wider community.

The Yarra Hills Secondary College - Mt Evelyn Campus, has undergone significant changes in recent years.The campus now spans from Year 7 to Year 12, providing a comprehensive

and seamless educational journey for all students.

“This expansion reflects our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our community and ensuring that every student receives the support and resources they need to succeed.”

Leighton is deeply committed to serving Mount Evelyn and surrounding communities. As a current member of the Mount Evelyn Township Group and the Mount Evelyn Street Party group, he understands the importance of community involvement and collaboration

in creating a thriving and supportive environment for our students to grow.

Yarra Hills Secondary College tours can be accessed through the school website: yarrahills.vic.edu.au/enrolment/college-tours/

Leighton O’Donnell presenting at the College Awards night.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Learning about road safety

By Mikayla van Loon

Stressing the importance of road safety and driver awareness for senior students preparing to take the leap to drive themselves was the focus of the RYDA program.

Students from Edinburgh College and Lilydale Heights College took part in the Road Safety Education guided sessions on Thursday 9 May.

Being National Road Safety week, extra emphasis was placed on how young drivers can remain safe on the roads, as both a driver and a pedestrian.

Program coordinator Anton Hockey said RYDA doesn’t focus on the practical aspects of driving but rather the necessity of having a good mindset before getting behind the wheel.

“What we look at is trying to cover all the things about how your mind state affects your driving and having a look at some of those key factors, like distraction,” he said.

Mr Hockey said the program looks at everything from the type of car being driven to the weather conditions in the lead up to a crash, with one session in particular inviting students to investigate the circumstances of a crash.

“We have a lived experience presenter who tells a little bit of his story and then students will investigate that story to really think about that a crash is not the result of one factor but a result of lots of different factors,” he said.

RYDA started as a Rotary project in New South Wales after a series of deaths of young people on the roads.

“It was too big for a volunteer organisation to keep on top of so Road Safety Education was born and we’ve kept the name RYDA to honour the past and to acknowledge the history, as well as that ongoing relationship with Rotary,” Mr Hockey said.

Still to this day Rotary clubs across the country are a major supporter of the program, offering volunteers to help run the day, as well as providing financial aid to allow schools to attend.

The Rotary Club of Lilydale did just that to enable the students from Lilydale to attend on Thursday, subsidising the cost per student.

Mr Hockey said with young people still over represented in road deaths and serious injuries, education around road safety is essential in bringing that toll down.

“It’s about making sure every young person gets access to a best practice road safety program so they’re getting that really good comprehensive road safety education.”

Students hear from a range of instructors and facilitators who come from various backgrounds, adding to the diversity of the program.

“They get to hear from a lot of different voices and they come from all sorts of walks. We’ve got ex-fireys, we’ve got driving instructors, we’ve got TAFE teachers, we’ve got lived experience presenters, and lots of other professionals used to dealing with young people

like youth justice workers,” Mr Hockey said.

Every year the program is reviewed to ensure it remains up to date, not only in information but in connecting with young people.

“We’ve got an academic advisory board that sits over with road safety and crash experts but also the psychological side as well for young people to look at what’s the best evidence, what teaching style is going to work and get through to young people as well.

“So they look at the content and any research that has happened over the last 12 months.”

One of the interactive sessions looks at the improvements in modern cars, as well as the different outcomes of speeding and stopping.

“We start by talking about the importance of safety being a really primary function of a car.

“When you’re looking for a first car, and you look at the stats around young people, yes, they’re over-represented in road trauma, but one of those reasons is because they’re driving cars that are 20 years old so they have crashes in older cars with less technology.

“Then in Speed and Stopping, it’s looking at stopping distance. So we have a car doing a couple of emergency brakes to show them different scenarios between 40 and 60 kilometres.”

An added aspect for National Road Safety Week, sponsor of the program, Boral, brought along a cement truck for students to learn first hand about blind spots and heavy vehicle awareness.

“It is essential to educate young drivers and equip them with the tools they need to stay safe on the road. For us, this involves getting students up close to one of our trucks to see the road from a new perspective,” Boral Executive General Manager Asphalt Tim Richards said.

While RYDA reaches 40,000 students every year, Mr Hockey said there’s always room to expand and encourages schools to enquire about the program to perhaps save one more life from road trauma.

A pool noodle dummy showed students how challenging it was to see someone from inside a truck’s cabin. 407090

Lilydale Heights College senior students were surprised by the challenges truck drivers face on the roads.

Lilydale Rotary Club volunteers Richard, Gerry, Barb, Cheryl, Des and Tad helping out at the RYDA Program day. Picture: SUPPLIED

Truck driver Gary talks an Edinburgh College student through the safety features. 407090

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

Final recovery dances on

By Mikayla van Loon

Prepare to don those dancing shoes and move to the beat with Lilydale Community House’s final two live music performances.

The rock and roll tunes of Uptown Catz will be heading to the House on Saturday 25 May and Mexican band Sin Frontera will put on a show on Saturday 22 June, both for free.

House coordinator Suyin Chan said the idea was to get people out and moving by dancing to various music genres.

“We’ve had very diverse bands to get people up and dancing,” she said.

Wanting to cater to different demographics, Ms Chan said the first event was a huge success with a bush dance theme, followed by Babaganoush, showcasing gypsy/balkan music.

“The gypsy balkan one was also really popular and a completely different group of people came to that. It was more of the European cohort so that was fabulous.

“Then we thought we would do a ‘50s and ‘60s rock and roll and then the Mexican one to see how they’d go.”

Uptown Catz has members hailing from the local area, including Stephen Pinzone who

comes from Mount Evelyn, as well as Andrew McLeod, Joe Breitenfeld and Stephen Meilak. Sin Frontera are a well known band, often performing in the inner city, showcasing the traditional sounds of Mexico, led by Alejandro Espino.

Both events are expected to be a lot of fun for families, as well as individuals or groups of friends.

Funded by the Urban Community Recovery Grants, Ms Chan said it makes the events completely free for people to attend.

“The recovery grants were about engaging with the local community and getting them out and about and the dances were to do just that, get them out and back into their community,” she said.

Encouraging people to not only engage with the dances and live music while they can, Ms Chan said she would like to “chat to those who come along about what our activities are during the week as well”.

Light refreshments will also be provided at each event, with everything getting underway at 7pm.

Lilydale Community House can be found at 7 Hardy Street.

Let’s celebrate Healesville Sanctuary’s 90th birthday

By Dongyun Kwon

Healesville Sanctuary is inviting local families to come over to its 90th birthday party on 25 and 26 May.

To celebrate, the Koala Picnic Lawns will come alive with local acoustic music, food trucks, Yarra Valley produce, lawn games, face painting, arts and crafts and Indigenous culture talks with free entry.

Healesville Sanctuary director Ross Williamson said autumn is a great time to visit the sanctuary.

“I encourage everyone to pop in and celebrate the occasion with us,” he said.

Healesville Sanctuary first opened to the public on 30 May 1934, known as Sir Colin Mackenzie Sanctuary at the time.

Mr Williamson said while many things have changed over the years, the mission to create a future rich in wildlife remains the same.

“We have a long tradition of all things Australian wildlife. Our main purpose is to connect people with Australian wildlife and to preserve it as best we can,” he said.

“Reaching 471,000 annual visitors was a fantastic achievement in the 2018/2019 financial year. In the next 10 years, I would love to get to the point where every Victorian visits Healesville Sanctuary at least once every five years. I think that would be superb.”

Along with the 90-year journey, Healesville Sanctuary has marked a number of milestones.

One of the most significant historical milestones was becoming the first place in the world to breed a platypus in 1943.

“More recently, we had a one-of-kind breeding breakthrough with Leadbeater’s Possum joey of mixed origin genetics born,”

Mr Williamson said.

“The wildlife hospital has gone from strength to strength. The Australian Wildlife Health Centre sees approximately 2,000 wildlife patients each year.

“Late last year we opened the giant Raptor Rehabilitation Centre which has increased our capacity to care for native birds and return them to the wild.”

As well as a two-day birthday party, Yarra Ranges Regional Museum has been holding a special exhibition to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Healesville Sanctuary.

The Wild and Ourselves: 90 years at Healesville Sanctuary has displayed Healesville Sanctuary’s archives for behind-thescenes insight into how it has protected Australia’s wildlife.

Yarra Ranges Council community heritage officer Sarah Sato said Healesville Sanctuary is representative of the local government area.

“It [Healesville Sanctuary] is something that Yarra Ranges Council really values. It [Yarra Ranges Shire] is an area that really cares about the environment and wildlife,” she said.

“The sanctuary was founded on the idea of protecting and preserving Australian wildlife at the time when that wasn’t a priority.”

There are many incredible items on display at the exhibition, from beautiful historical images, ticket stubs and signage, to badges, collectable teaspoons and husbandry equipment.

Ms Sato said the most impressive items in the exhibition to her are the first visitor book,

the platypus squeegee and the taxidermy platypus.

“The first visitor book for the Sir Colin MacKenzie Sanctuary was signed in 1934 on opening day by Count Lewenhaust, Master of the Hounds to the King of Sweden,” she said.

“Another one is for platypus squeegee which is a device that staff at the sanctuary came up with to solve the problem of the platypus tunnels getting clogged up with dirt and mounds. When platypuses ran through this, it cleaned all the mud off from their bodies and stopped tunnels from getting clogged up.

“Yarra Yarra is the [taxidermy] platypus on display in the exhibition. He and his twin Barak, named after William Barak, were bred in captivity in 1999 at Healesville Sanctuary, 55 years after Corrie was the first platypus to be bred in captivity anywhere.”

The exhibition is available for free and is open until Sunday 11 August.

Healesville Sanctuary events and tourism coordinator Donna Paterson said they love collaborating with local partners in the Yarra Valley.

“We were thrilled when the team from Yarra Ranges Regional Museum were supportive of an exhibition to share Healesville Sanctuary’s 90 years of history. It’s been an absolute joy to work with them,” she said.

“Our volunteers who look after the sanctuary’s archives along with the incredible curators from the museum did a fabulous job to showcase some of the special, unique and quirky items that have been collected over decades.

“Showcasing our amazing collection of artefacts at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum was a wonderful opportunity to reach a new audience and share our incredible stories.”

The exhibition has opened since 20 April.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Lilydale Community House has seen huge success with its first few events. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Mexican band Sin Frontera,led by Alejandro Espino,will be performing on Saturday 22 June.

Uptown Catz is a four piece band,playing mainly ‘50s and ‘60s rock and roll.

Lilydale’s lost buildings

By Joy Gothe, Lilydale and District Historical Society

Another glimpse into the lost buildings of Lilydale was the impressive old brick building left behind from the Gasworks that were at the end of Market Street next to the swimming pool.

In June 1886 at the Hodson’s Lilydale Hotel, the first meeting was held to discuss the idea of establishing a gasworks in the township, a public meeting was then called for at Poyner’s Dining Hall in July 1886, with many excited local storekeepers and residents turning up.

The decision was made to form a company for the purpose of lighting and providing Lilydale with Gas.

The Lilydale Gas Company was formed in June 1887 offering 10,000 shares at one pound each, which were purchased by residents of the town.

Local builder, Samuel Dornom who had already built many buildings in Lilydale, was contracted to carry out the construction. Henry Hyne’s Bricks were selected for use in the buildings for their excellent quality and ability to withstand great heat.

The works comprised of a large imposing brick building, and a huge gasometer encased in a brick tank.

The Gasworks opened in August 1887 with an official Ceremony and the Illumination fes-

CARTOON

tivities were of a very extensive character, as was fitting on so important an occasion and continued on into the evening. Large numbers of people flocked through Main Street intent on seeing for the first time in Lilydale the magnificent lighting supplied from the company’s works.

Ascending the hill to the centre of the town, quite a blaze of light met the eye in all directions.

The shops and homes were festooned with coloured lights and huge stars adorned the front of many buildings.

The works a whole new industry as shop owners and home owners purchased gas light fittings for their premises and homes.

The Gasworks operated until the 1930’s when it went into liquidation.

Unfortunately, the works were sold in January 1935. Later the Council purchased some of the land for flood prevention works and demolished the old brick building in June 1947.

What a sad day, destroying such a unique solid brick building, if it had been restored it surely would have provided a fabulous space for many community activities.

The Lilydale Community Youth Club is now built over the site.

If you want to discover more about the history of Lilydale, visit lilydalehistorical.com.au or email info@lilydalehistorical.com.au

Third Planet of Apes thrills

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

Starring Owen Teague, Freya Allan and Kevin Durand

Rated M

4.25/5

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes is an enthralling continuation of the Planet of the Apes reboot series.

Generations after the events of War for the Planet of the Apes, a young chimpanzee named Noa (Owen Teague) must rescue his clan from the tyrannical ape Proximus Caesar (Kevin Durand), and befriends a human girl named Mae (Freya Allan) along the way.

As with the previous trilogy, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes blends compelling drama and richly-developed characters with thrilling action.

Noa has an enthralling arc of courage and discovery, as he learns more of the old world and struggles to save his family and embrace his clan’s traditions.

Some of the best villains make sense but you disagree with their actions; Proximus is a ruthless zealot who twists the teachings of the benevolent ancestor Caesar from the prior trilogy, yet he is charismatic, ambitious and leads a vast, organised empire.

Unlike many modern effects-heavy blockbusters, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

uses beautiful real locations rather than flat green-screen sound-stages.

The gruelling action sequences make great use of nimble ape physicality, and through moving performances and extremely expressive CGI (which even models the apes’ faces, to some degree, after their motion-captured human actors), the apes can be deeply sympathetic or terrifying. Peter Macon provides insight and levity as Raka, a wise orangutan.

The one weak link in the cast is, amusingly, the human Mae; among the humane, affecting apes, Mae feels implausibly capable yet somewhat bland.

An animalistic thriller with some of the best drama and character writing of the year, Kingdom ofthe Planet of the Apes is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

The 1812 Theatre

The Great Gatsby

Jay Gatsby, a self-mase millionaire, passion ately pursues the elusive Daisy Buchannan.

Nick Carroway, a young newcomer to Long Island, is drawn into their world of obses sion, greed and danger.

Billy Elliot delights at CLOC Kemp’s curtain call

The breathtaking glamour and decadent excess oof the Jazz Age comes to the stage in F.

Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel and Simpon Levi’s adaptation.

Season: May 16 – June 8. Bookings: 9758

3964

CLOC Musical Theatre

Billy Elliot

First I must say that this is a musical not to be missed.

CLOC Musical Theatre has produced one of its most moving and funny shows that it ever has.

The story of Billy Elliot is set against the miners strike of 1964 in County Durham in the north of England.

Young Billy is taking boxing lessons when he discovers in the same hall there is a ballet class.

Watching the class, he realises this is his future. And so the story commences.

Opening the production was film from news TV of the miners’ strike, a scene from Churchill and Maggie Thatcher

Billy, on May 11 was played by Lukas Elliot. A very talented young man.

Not only did he box, do ballet excellently, tap and act.

A wonderful portrayal and he was on stage all evening never missing a line nor a number.

Some of the dance sequences were terrific especially when he danced with his older self-played by Dylan Hery.

A wonderful duo.

Other outstanding performances were

given by Billy’s friend Michael, played by Angus Hutchison who is also talented in dance and tap and seeing both Billy and Michael doing a dance sequence together was a sheer delight.

Billy’s grandmother was portrayed by Barbara Hughes, another asset to CLOC doing a great job in the role.

His father was played by Chris Hughes who captured the role of father, miner, widower and striker with aplomb and expertise.

Billy’s older brother Tony was given a first class performance by Joshua Summer.

Billy’s dance teacher, who supported him all the way was Mrs Wilkinson, played by Melanie Bit.

A wonderful portrayal and in parts very moving.

Some of the scenes were outstanding particularly the dance sequences.

The scenes where the miners fought the .police, very well done, the sequence where the police and miners were mixed with the ballet dancers.

The ballet scenes were a delight and CLOC has rounded up a very talented dancers who not only did ballet but were excellent o tap.

Overall a wonderful night of theatre and I recommend everyone should go and see it.

The production finishes May 25 Book through CLOC webpage.

REMEMBER

· The Basin Theatre – Jimmie the Beatle. June 13 – 23. · Gemco – Take Ten – May 17, 18 and 19.

Graphic novel is charming

A review of Ghost Book by Remy Lai Winner of the 2024 Victorian Premier’s Literary Award – Prize for Children’s Literature, Ghost Book, by Brisbane-based author and illustrator Remy Lai, is a heart-warning graphic novel for children aged nine and above.

The book’s protagonist is July, a 12-yearold girl who is seldom noticed by her schoolmates.

With her mother having died in childbirth and her father busy selling dumplings everyday, July often feels ignored – by both the living and the dead, as those ghosts around her don’t realise she can see them.

It’s the Hungry Ghost Month, the seventh month in the lunar calendar, when the Gates of the Underworld open and dangerous ghosts get to roam the living world.

When July saves a boy ghost named William from being devoured by a Hungry Ghost, he becomes her first and only friend.

Together, they try to return William’s wandering spirit to his body. Their adventures reflect many aspects of East and Southeast Asian folklore, starting with the Hungry Ghosts, which are believed to be the spirits of those who have died tragic deaths, those who aren’t receiving offerings from their living families, and those who are punished for the terrible things they did while alive.

The story further brings various mythical figures to life, including Oxhead and Horseface, whose job is to escort new ghosts to the Underworld. Meanwhile, the character Heibai Wuchang combines two deities –the Black and White Impermanence – who keep the Underworld in order.

Perhaps the most interesting character is Grandma Meng (or Meng Po), who serves the Forgetting Soup (or the Soup of Oblivion) at the Bridge at the End (or the Bridge of Oblivion).

Like the water of Lethe, the river of forgetfulness in Greek mythology, the soup

PASSION FOR PROSE

ensures that souls who are ready to be reincarnated do not remember their previous life or their time in the Underworld.

These traditional cultural elements enrich the plot, shedding light on universal themes such as friendship, family, grief, loss and loyalty.

The funny, full-colour illustrations and witty dialogues are uplifting, easing the tension that some young readers may feel while pondering the complex issues of life, death, separation, loneliness and fear.

The portrayal of the Underworld may bring back memories of Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away (2001) and Lee Unkrich’s Coco (2017), where bright, festive colours are used to capture the audience’s imagination.

Also curious are the “people” in the Underworld, creative combinations of animals and humans that remind readers of Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are (1963).

While a handful of ghosts are spooky, the overall visual effect is delightful and fun. To this reviewer, the handful of Chinese characters used in the book are full of meaning, such as the subtle difference between “dumplings” (yummy) and “wonky dumplings” (“eat some and your problems – and you – will be forgotten”).

But the most fascinating character is “forget”, which combines “perish” and “heart”. Luckily, as Ghost Book shows us: “A broken heart is a heart that has loved and been loved.” Highly recommended.

IMPRESSIVE EXECUTIVE PROPERTY PROPERTY

IMPRESSIVE EXECUTIVE PROPERTY

LOCATED on a glorious, sun filled 4050m2 block, in the highly sought after pocket of Belgrave Heights / South, this large and spacious family home is set to impress both inside and out.

A floorplan of 6 bedrooms, study, three bathrooms and three oversized living zones has been extremely well designed to adapt to any family lifestyle and creates space and privacy for all.

Spanning over two levels, the home has been finished tastefully with striking timber floorboards and quality carpets whilst double

glazed windows, remote V-Lux skylights, ducted vacuum system and loft storage are all quality extras for you to enjoy.

A sunken formal lounge plus spacious rumpus room can be found on the lower level of the home whilst upstairs, another oversized living area and study nook sit perfectly between the master suite and another large bedroom, making this a versatile floorplan that could allow for extended family living options.

Beautifully detailed, the kitchen has been updated to include stone benchtops, quality

appliances and allows for great functionality with its walk in pantry and extensive bench space. It also allows you to cater for both indoor and outdoor entertaining, being centrally positioned around the spacious dining area and also the undercover Merbau decking at the rear of the home.

Sparkling in the background, the inground pool stretches for an impressive 13.5 metres and comes complete with solar heating.

Just as extensive as the size of the home, the amount of garaging and storage

space seems endless. A double garage with remote access can be found off the circular sealed driveway plus there is an additional 14 x 7m shed at the rear of the property plus under house workshop / storeroom making this property the perfect choice for those that need to store cars, work equipment or the like.

Staring out over a peaceful view of the nearby valley with a near flat and fully useable block, this property needs to be seen to be believed. ●

HOME FOCUS

SERENE RETREAT WITH ABUNDANT NATURE

LET’S get this sold!

Discover the tranquillity of 21 Cornelius Crescent, Healesville – a stunning property nestled on approximately 12 acres of pristine bushland, teeming with native wildlife. This peaceful haven offers a meticulously renovated 2-bedroom house and so much more. If you’re seeking a serene escape with modern comfort and natural beauty, your search ends here.

Step inside this immaculate residence, where no detail has been spared in creating a modern and comfortable living space. The renovation work showcases a level of craftsmanship that is truly remarkable. From the sleek and modern kitchen to the luxurious bathroom, every corner of this home exudes quality and style. The bifold doors open up to a generous front deck, providing the perfect spot for morning coffee or evening relaxation while taking in the tranquil surroundings.

The cleverly designed study can easily be transformed into an extra bedroom, offering flexibility for your family’s needs. All year round comfort is supplied with the addition of reverse cycle ducted heating and cooling throughout the home. Imagine waking up to filtered mountain views and the soothing sounds of nature, all from the comfort of your own home.

Outside, the expansive 12 acres of bushland are a nature lover’s paradise. Explore the bush, observe native wildlife, or simply enjoy the peaceful serenity that surrounds you. A cleared area on the property is perfect for growing your own vegetables or creating a garden oasis. With a double garage and carport, there’s ample space for your vehicles and storage needs or STCA there is plenty of room to build extra shedding. All this is positioned just a 5 minute drive from the town centre on a no through road.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of Healesville’s natural beauty, perfectly paired with a top-tier renovation. Contact us today to schedule your private viewing and experience the serenity of this amazing property. Your peaceful retreat awaits! ●

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UNIQUELY WARBURTON VIBE ON OVER 1/2 ACRE

NESTLED amidst enchanting deciduous trees and boasting breathtaking mountain views, this weatherboard wonderland is more than just a home—it’s an experience waiting to be cherished.

With over ½ acre of lush land, let your imagination roam free as you explore the private, securely fenced backyard, tailormade for little adventurers to discover nature’s wonders.

Step inside to discover a haven of charm and character. Multiple living zones offer endless possibilities for relaxation and entertainment, from the cozy warmth of the wood fire to the charm of an open fireplace.

Whether you’re in need of 3 or 4 bedrooms, this home adapts to your lifestyle with ease. Ascend to the upstairs loft room and be captivated by panoramic views from the picture window and enjoy fresh air from the Juliet balcony, all while enjoying the charm of “wonky“ timber flooring that adds a touch of whimsy to every step.

Downstairs, two generously sized bedrooms and two bathrooms await, complete with pedestal basins, baths, and toilets, ensuring convenience and comfort for all. The master bedroom enjoys a walk through robe to the ensuite, lovely sash windows and views of your garden.

Dreaming of a space to unleash your creativity? The versatile layout offers endless options—a study, library, formal dining, or simply leave it open for extra living space—the choice is yours.

The country-style kitchen beckons culinary adventures and seamlessly flows onto the deck, where you can savor the serenity of your surroundings while basking in the beauty of the views.

But wait, there’s more! A separate studio with its own entrance invites endless possibilities—it’s perfect for transforming into B&B accommodation (stca), a workfrom-home sanctuary, or a welcoming retreat for friends and family.

Don’t miss the chance to make this extraordinary home yours—a unique blend of charm, comfort, and natural beauty awaits on Mt Donna Buang.

FamilySpacewithComfortandConvenience

Wellpositionedandverywellpresented,thischarminghomeissuretopleaseifyou’relookingforan easycareandconvenientlifestyle.Fresh,modern,lightandbrightthroughoutandboastingplenty ofspaceforthegrowingfamily.With3 bedroomsand 2bathrooms, aspaciousliving/loungearea offersgreatspaceforeveryoneplusanuptodatekitchenanda separatemealsarea.Outsideis somethinga littledifferentwithendlesspossibilitiesofferingextraaccommodationfortheextended family,teenagersortheidealworkfromhomeofficearea,gamesroomorstudio.Anexcellent locationwithgreatmountainviewsandideallylocatedjusta shortstrolltoYarraJunctionspopular shoppinghub,localschools,publictransport,theYarracentreandsportingfacilities.

SimplyGorgeous,JustMoveIn

Thishomeis adelightfulblendofcontemporarycomfortandtimelesscharm.Theweatherboard exterioraddscharacter,whilethemoderninteriorwithpolishedfloorboardscreates afresh atmosphere.Thethreebedroomsofferamplespace,especiallythemainbedroomwithitswalkinrobeandensuite,perfectforrelaxation.Thelargewindowsallowingscenicgardenviewsarea wonderfultouch.Themainbathroom’sluxuriousfamily-sizedbathsoundslikea delightfulretreat, andtheopen-planlayoutofthelounge,dining,andkitchenareasensures aseamlessflow,withthe kitchenoffering apicturesqueviewofthebackyard.Theinclusionofmainsgasductedheatingand fansensurescomfortthroughouttheyear,cateringtobothcoldwintersandwarmermonths.

Brilliantlylocatedina stylishculdesac,withmountainviewssitsthisstunningfourbedroomresidence. Asyouenter,youaregreetedbyqualityflooringanda senseofspaceasyounotethelargemaster bedroomtoyourleft,thatboastsa walkinrobeandensuite.Continuingthroughthehome,you’ll findyourselfintheheartofthehouse -theexpansivekitchen,dining,andfamilyroom.Withitsopen layout,thisareaseamlesslyconnectstotheoutdoorentertainmentareaandprivaterearyard.The kitchenshowcasesanislandbench,amplecupboardspaceandallcreatedwitha stylishandclean, crisppalette.Youwilldiscoverbedrooms2 and3 in aseparatewing,providingprivacyandcomfort forfamilymembersorguests.Bed4 isconvenientlylocatedoffthefamilyarea,offeringversatilityand flexibility.Thishomeoffers aharmoniousblendofcomfort,convenience,andstyle.

4bedroomcharacterhome,largeblock,oppositetheYarrariver Storybookliving,acrossfromtheYarraRiverandonly afewminutesstrollintotheheartofWarburton thishomecertainlyhasalotonoffer.Doublestoreyandcompletewith 4bedroomsand 2bathrooms theversatilefloorplanprovidesamplelivingoptions.Gorgeousformalloungewithlargewindows lookingoutontotheestablishedcottagegardens.Amazingsuper-sizedkitchen,fabulousspacefor theaccomplishedcookwithroomtomove,thefestivefeastwillbe adreamtocookup.Master bedroomwithensuiteandupstairsanother2 bedrooms,studynookandmainfamilybathroom, plentyofstorageandbonusductedvacuum.Largegaragewithinternalaccesswillmake unpackingtheshopping abreeze!Plentyofspaceoutsidewithfruittreestoindulgeinandcottage gardenstoloseyourselfin, adelightfulpropertyinbrilliantlocationtoenjoythedelightsofWarburton.

25 ACRES FULLY EQUIPPED EQUESTRIAN FARM

WELCOME to a fully equipped 25 acre horse property in picturesque Glenburn, offering an enormous range of features –hands down the best value pound for pound in the district.

The renovated 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom homestead is heated and cooled with 3 split systems, evaporative cooling, and Scandia wood heater. Additionally there is 3 phase power connected with generator input.

Equestrian facilities:

65 m x 35 m all-purpose arena fully enclosed

Over 12 secure paddocks

concrete-floored stables with 3 boxes and 1 tie-up bay wash bay with hot wash

· lockable tack room with feed storage

· 2 day yards with loose boxes and 25 m round yard

Further to the property’s storage capacity, add a 9 m x 15 m Colorbond shed with 3 bays (1 concreted). There are 3 dams on the property, including 1 spring fed, ideal for watering stock and horses, in addition to the watering troughs, most automated. Lastly, the feed is top-class, with the property capable of yielding > 2,000 square bales and upwards of 200 round bales.

This property is at the top of many buyers’ rural checklists. It goes without saying: get in while it lasts.

Text 36BURNS to 0448 820 022 for more information. ●

IMPECCABLY PRESENTED HOME WITH ACREAGE

THIS outstanding property offers a holiday feel with the tropical palms and solar heated swimming pool awaiting lazy summer days. All the work has been done at this property, move in and start relaxing.

The home has great street appeal with the white picket fence and electric gate, the driveway is asphalt and there’s a handy double carport next to the home. With a charming front rose garden leading you to the front brick paved porch and then into the well proportioned home.

There is a master suite with high end walk through wardrobe. Then a stunning ensuite with a freestanding bath and toilet. The home also offers a lounge room with wood heater that flows through to the dining room with garden views. Both rooms are serviced by the addition of a split system air-conditioner.

The kitchen is an entertainers delight with vast stone bench tops and has been fitted out with high end European appliances including 2 pyrolytic ovens, one with a combination microwave function and the other with a unique ‘slide and hide’ door. An integrated dishwasher and large induction cooktop together with a fully ducted range hood. The kitchen includes a ‘wired in’ frame TV to allow for artwork to be displayed when not in use. It also includes a plumbed in benchtop water filter that provides chilled and boiling filtered water at the touch of a button.

The kitchen offers plenty of storage space with a great combination of cupboards and drawers.

The home continues to a family room which spills out to the covered entertaining with views over the garden and swimming pool. The kitchen services this outdoor space with a sliding window out onto a serving shelf/bar. The family room and kitchen are both serviced by a second split

system air-conditioner.

The laundry is located off the family room which acts as a butlers pantry in addition to providing ample laundry space with a built in hamper drawer and included upright freezer and built in ironing centre. The zoned living provides for 3 further bedrooms at this end of the home, all appointed with custom built wardrobes and electric blinds.

The beautifully renovated family bathroom with valley views, features a walk in rain shower, luxury spa bath, ample bathroom storage, quality tapware throughout, automatic flushing toilet and an additional makeup vanity with lighting.

Further property features include brand new gas ducted heating, evaporative ducted cooling, solar panels, multiple water tanks which are fully UV filtered to the entire home. (Mains water is available at the rear of the property where road frontage is accessible).

The garden includes a fire pit area, several level grass areas surrounded by fully landscapes gardens, an orchard and an above ground vegetable garden, all serviced by a large storage shed nearby.

There is a 50 sqm shed at the base of the property which has been partially renovated and used as a play room/ rumpus room/storage and workshop. It has a functioning wood heater and floating floorboards throughout.

Beyond the shed is a bush paddock of around ½ an acre.

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

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

BeautifulHomeinEmeraldonapprox.23acreswithViews!

Thisoutstanding3 bedroom,3 bathroomhomesituatedonapprox.23Acresoffersgorgeousviews acrossclearedpaddockstoCardiniaReservoir.Thisstoneconstructedhomehas awoodfireheater, acousticstrawboardvaultedceiling,giantwindowssoakingintheview &plentyofnaturallight.The kitchenisvast,with agasstovetop &electricoven, &plentyofbenchspace.Unwindinthesecond loungeroomwithanopenfireplace&astunningstudyarea.Thereisa masterbedroomfeaturinga walkthroughwardrobetotheensuite.Thefurther 2bedroomshaveBIRs& areservicedby afamily bathroom.Externallythereisa clearedpaddockwith acentraltreedgully.Thegroundscontaina pizzaoven,a highdoublecarportattachedtothehome, &inthebackyardareais adoublegarage withpower,lights &concretedfloor.Thispropertyhasmainspower,gas &water.

Lovely 4BedroomHome,ClosetoCockatoowithGreatAmericanBarn!

Beautifullymaintained 4bedroom,2 bathroomhome.Thehomehasductedheating &ispositioned tothefrontofthisflatparklikefullyfencedblockwithclearedlawnsamongstestablishedtrees. Featuring:leadlightfeaturefrontdoor,splitlevelliving, 2bedroomswithBIR,Mastersuitewithensuite, WIR& ceilingfan,familybathroomwith adualvanity,shower &bath, &a 4thbedroom/studywith ceilingfan.Thereis agranddiningroomthatisopenplanwiththekitchen &hasviewsouttothe expansivedeck.Thereis asecondlargeloungeroomwith acosywoodfire &splitsystemAC.The deckisgorgeous&floodedwithsunlight.TotherearoftheblockisaninsulatedAmericanbarn, with 1bayrollerdoor,a pedestriandoor,concretefloor,power,lights&amezzanine.Thereisalsoa handytapnexttothebarn,assortedfruittrees,a shedwithpower, &6 solarpanelswiththehome.

BrilliantlyLocatedImmaculateFamilyHome!

Thisfantastic4 bedroom,2 bathroomhomeismoveinready.Situatedonapprox.½ anacre, thisgreatpropertyoffersviewstoRedwoodPark.Thedrivewayisasphaltedforyeararound convenienceandthereisa DLUG.Themasterbedroomhasa baywindow,WIR& ensuite, &there isanofficelocatedtothefrontofthehome.Theopenplankitchenoffers agascooktop& electric oven,dishwasher& walkinpantry.Enjoythewarmsummerswithmealsinthecoveredoutdoor entertainingareaorunwindinthespa.Furtherconveniencesincludegasductedheating, &ducted vacuum.Enjoypotteringinthegardenwithestablishedvegetablegardens& gardenshed,orrelish hostingsummereveningsintheRotunda.Thispropertyhashandydualaccessallowingeasyaccess tostrolltotownalongthewalkingtrackfromtherearoftheproperty.

ExpansiveFamilyHomeintheHeartofMonbulk! PerfectlylocatedintheheartofMonbulkthisfamilyhomefeatures 4robedbedrooms,& 2 bathroomsincluding afamilybathroomcompletewith abathtub,thishomehas afunctionalfloor plan.Themasterbedroomhasanensuite &WIR &islocatednear alargeformallivingroom,whilst2 oftheremainingbedroomsarelocatednearthespacious,openplankitchen &familyroom.Thereis aseparatediningroomwhichcouldbeutilisedas ahomeoffice/study.Addtothefeatures atoasty woodfireinthefamilyroom,gasductedheatingthroughout,floorboards, awell-appointedkitchen &securityshuttersonnearlyallwindows& doors.Outsideisthehuge,private,undercoverdeck, perfectforentertainingallyearround,a DLUG,2 furthergarden/woodsheds&alovelysideyard.

SamanthaScott M 0438680032

HOME FOCUS

A MASTERPIECE OF STYLE AND SPACE

DISCOVER the epitome of luxury living in this custom-built home, tucked away in a serene location right in the heart of town. With meticulous attention to detail and highquality finishes throughout, every aspect of this residence exudes elegance and comfort.

Step inside to be greeted by the warmth of hardwood timber floors, soaring 10’ ceilings, casement and double hung windows, feature leadlight and beautifully sculpted cornices. The formal living area beckons with a feature fireplace, perfect for cosy gatherings with loved ones.

Entertaining is a delight in the expansive family/meals area where a solid fuel fire invites relaxed enjoyment. This area connects seamlessly to a state-of-the-art Smith and Smith granite kitchen, where culinary adventures await. Boasting a Beling stove, glass splashbacks dishwasher and a vast array of storage, you will delight in the views on offer as you whip up a storm. French doors lead out to a spacious deck adorned with a covered gazebo, creating the ideal setting for memorable family gatherings. Unwind in the covered outdoor swim/spa area, surrounded by the tranquillity of the lush 7659m2 of established gardens.

There are four bedrooms, the master suite, complete with a luxurious ensuite boasting double vanity, double shower and the latest fittings, offering a sanctuary of relaxation whilst the main bathroom also displays top of the range fittings. An open study will cater for the student or a work from home situation.

Year-round comfort is assured with hydronic heating, a solid fuel fire, and a split system, while a remote double garage and separate colorbond garage provide ample space for vehicles and storage, with the shed doubling as a workshop or man cave. A paddocked area will cater to a four legged friend.

Security and privacy are paramount, with remote gates ensuring peace of mind for you and your family.

Don’t miss the opportunity to make this private sanctuary your own. Contact us today to schedule a viewing and experience luxury living at its finest. ●

SPACIOUS FAMILY HOME WITH VALLEY VIEWS

ENJOYING views across the valley, this spacious, open plan home boasts great appeal along with four bedrooms, two modern bathrooms – The master suite with full ensuite with corner spa plus oversized walk in robe and split level lounge, dining and TV areas. The floorplan has been well designed to allow for privacy for kids bedrooms away from the living areas and master bedroom, giving everyone a little bit of peace and privacy and making this the ideal family layout.

Along with the convenience of multiple split systems throughout, you will also find a cosy wood heater that you can enjoy throughout the colder Winter months ahead. Outside, a sealed driveway leads to a double carport whilst an extra parking bay for two cars is convenient for guest and extended family.

Tiered for easy use, the rear yard is fenced and contains a paved entertaining area and lovely garden where kids can play. The rear decking is the ideal spot to enjoy a BBQ or relaxing of an evening watching the sun go down.

Only a short drive to Upwey main street, public transport and schools plus only a short distance from the wonderful walking trails of Birdsland Reserve, this home will impress on every level. ●

SharynChandler

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

ACROSS

1 Underground railway (6)

4 Water-surrounded land (6)

10 Chickens, pigeons etc. (5)

11 Social exclusion (9)

12 Provider of information (9)

13 Rainforest vine (5)

14 Of Troy (6)

15 Over (4)

19 Currency unit (4)

20 Antelope with lyre-shaped horns (6)

24 Happen (5)

25 Encouraging (9)

27 Male name (9)

28 Proclaimer (5)

29 Proof-corrector (6)

30 Fruit (6)

DOWN

1 Temperance (8)

2 Shoeless (8)

3 German-speaking country (7)

5 Mollusc (7)

6 Shoe brand (6)

7 Humiliate (6)

8 Scottish island (4)

9 Law (7)

16 Bed-bound person (7)

17 Italian church (8)

18 Large marsupial (8)

19 Procession (7)

21 North African country (7)

22 Deadbeat (6)

23 Outline (6)

26 Sham (4)

5 LETTERS ABIDE ABOUT ABOVE AGAIN ANGRY AREAS AROSE ARROW ASSET BROAD CLEAN DOVES EAVES ELITE GAMER GANGS HATED HERDS

STYLE

SWEET TENET TOPIC TOTES

LARGE LIKEN LILAC MISER MOTTO NOTED PASTA PEACH ROACH RUING RURAL SCALE SERVE SLEET SONGS SPARK STAIR STEPS

SPORT Gilsenan returns to play

By John Thomson

Last weekend the Australian doubles championships were held at the Victorian Croquet headquarters at Cairnlea over four days, so there is no Monday Level Play report for this week.

In the Thursday Handicap competition, Lilydale played host to Mornington.

This week’s team consisted of Alan Jones, Mick Crawley, Liz Stewart and Mike Gilsenan, making a long awaited return to the team.

Mick Crawley played in the first singles. Because the Mornington player was on a much lower handicap than his Mornington opponent, Mick had a two hoop start and his opponent had a two hoop deficit. Mick ran the first hoop so straight away he was on three hoops, this put his opponent under all sorts of pressure and he had to try and make up ground by going for hoops that he would normally not do. Mick kept playing his steady game and went on to win 7 hoops to Mornington 1 hoop.

In the first of the doubles Alan Jones and Mike Gilsenan teamed up. The Mornington team were starting just one hoop behind Lilydale this time. Mornington ran the first hoop, so from then on it was just like a level play game.This game turned out to be an epic affair that went for about two hours. Each side was playing some really good croquet by clearing their opposition balls away, so when a player eventually had a hoop shot they had to make the most of it. In the end Lilydale won 7 hoops to Mornington 6 hoops.

In the next singles Alan Jones was playing. The Mornington player was starting one hoop behind Alan. The Mornington player made up his one hoop deficit at the first hoop, so from then on it was again like playing a level play game.This game went hoop for hoop and both players were on six hoops each so they had to

play the thirteenth to decide the winner. The Mornington player was able to set up better and then run the hoop to give Mornington the game, 7 hoops to Lilydale 6 hoops.

Liz Stewart and Mick Crawley played in the next doubles. Lilydale were starting two hoops in front and the Mornington pair were 1 hoop behind. The more experienced Mornington team soon took control of the game, they worked their way into the lead and then controlled the rest of the game to win 7 hoops to Lilydale 4 hoops.

Because the first doubles game took so long there was no lunch break, everyone just had to grab a bite to eat and something to drink when they could. At this point the scores were Lilydale 2 games 24 hoops Mornington 2 games 21 hoops. With only three hoops separating the two teams, and two games to play, Lilydale were wondering if it was going to be another drawn game again as it was last week.

In the last singles game Mike Gilsenan was playing, Mike had a one hoop advantage on his Mornington opponent. The Mornington player started well and was soon two hoops up, but Mike fought back and got within one hoop of his opponent, but an errant shot by Mike put his opponent’s ball through the hoop giving the game to Mornington. Mornington 7 hoops Lilydale 5 hoops.

With the last doubles game to be played, Lilydale had to win this game to win the day. Alan Jones and Liz Stewart were playing. Lilydale were starting one hoop in front and the Mornington team two hoops in arrears. Lilydale started well and did not let the Mornington pair make up any ground. Lilydale 7 hoops to Mornington 3 hoops.

This win by Lilydale evened up the games so it was again down to the hoop count.

The final scores Lilydale 3 games 36 hoops to Mornington 3 games 31 hoops.

Harry Norman takes silver at Hanging Rock XCR

By Jamie Strudley

Round 2 of Athletics Victoria’s XCR season was held at Hanging Rock on Saturday afternoon. The traditional club round with open athletes running over 12km drew over 400 athletes from throughout Victoria to the picturesque Hanging Rock. The course took athletes around and half way up the famous rock before finishing via the race course. Excellent conditions underfoot and overhead made for a fantastic day of cross country action.

First event of the day was a 5km event for U14, U16 and U18 women and the U14 and U16 Men. Zoe Clarke (U16) and Brigette Rice (U18) both ran solid races to finish fifth in their respective grades. Mitch Pointon (U16) ran a solid race to finish 16th in a very competitive grade.

The U20 women were next up in a 7km race, joined by U18 and U20 men. Briar Keyser and Maddie Laven were part of a big lead pack through 2km and stayed in the hunt for medals to the end. Briar finished fifth and Maddie a few steps behind in sixth.

The Open Women were chasing team results in the 12km race. A fantastic race from Olivia Twining to finish 13th leading to the team of Katrina Winger, Abi Hyndman and Bonnie Morris to a very close second place finish..

Harry Norman led the men’s team in their 12km race with a steady but impressive second place.The team was unable to match the exploits of the women, finishing fifth. Full club results are:

Women

· Open Women 12km: Olivia Twining 13th 47:47; Katrina Winger 50th 53:21; Abi Hyndman 73rd 56:30; Bonnie Morris 97th 1:00:48;

· Open Women 7km: Erica Purcell 46:57;

· Female 20 7km: Briar Keyser 5th 28:23; Madeline Laven 6th 28:33;

· Female 185km: Brigitte Rice 5th 19:18;

· Female 165km: Zoe Clarke 5th 20:25;

· Female 14 5km: Brienna Coffey 12th 24:04;

Men

· Open Men 12km: Harry Norman 2nd 37:58; James Laven 26th 40:19; Max Savill-Bentley 52nd 41:47; Angus Norman 130th 45:00; Sam Arnold 147th 45:48; Chris Grundy 186th 48:18; Matthew Morrison 205th 49:23; Bryan Ackerly 315th 59:08; Craig Hewitson 361st 1:14:54;

· Male 20 7km: Reuben Johnson 14th 24:35; Daniel Groves 17th 25:28; · Male 16 5km: Mitchell Pointon 16th 18:37; We had another fantastic morning of Cross Country, this week at our home ground at Morris Reserve for Round 4. Next Saturday we head back to Lillydale Lake with Freddo frogs and minties on offer for those who achieve a course PB. The LAVic Cross Country relay teams need to be entered soon. This is the last reminder to put your U9-U17 athletes name down if you would like to run on the 8th of June at Cruden Farm.

Round 3 results from Elizabeth Bridge are: 500m

· Kylan Milne 2.39; Sophie Ashton 3.2; Rowan Coffey 3.33; Pippa Stark 3.33

1000m

· Ivy Ingle 5.27; Angus Congreve 5.47; Elliott Dawson 6.05; Jasper Dean 6.08; Noah Hewitt 6.58; Aaron Zuo 7.19; Emily Moore

8.02; Willliam Hastewell 8.15; Thea Christian 9.47

1500m

· Riley Yorke 6.19; Lucas Pawly 6.3; Amelia Sketchley 6.47; Brock Peel 7.03; Victoria James 7.11; Willow Neal 7.19; Harper Neal 7.29; Sorelle Byrne 7.29; Sadie Kennedy 7.34; Indi Budin 7.42; Imogen McMillan 7.43; Delia Coffey 7.44; Fletcher Norman 7.52; Iola MacKay 7.57; Georgia Cooke 7.57; Tahlia Dawson 8.1; Spencer Norman 8.4; Winter Anderson-Bonsor 9.04; Etta Thoma 9.04; Cody Buckland 9.26; Byron Stark 9.48; Micah Friend 9.54

2000m

· Samuel Thomas 7.22; Holly Yorke 8.32; Caitlyn McKerlie 8.4; Pippa Congreve 8.46; Hugo Gibbs 8.47; Lexi Aders 9.11; Tess Hewatt 9.13; Jonty Friend 9.2; Noah Eldridge 9.21; Zuri Dawson 10.02; Alice Sabo 10.02; Kirsten Mcerlie 10.25; Meadow Anderson-Bonsor 10.42; Hugh Richardson 0.49; Eamon MacKay 10.54; Ashleigh Christian 10.59; Isabella Martin 11.45; Dominic Nealon 11.49; Jake Buckland 11.52; Leah Gobetti 15.11; Lanni Aborowa 15.12; Arizona Peel 15.12; Blake Vine 19.11 3000m

· James Crome-Smith 10.18; Cameron Yorke

11.08; Archie Budin 11.08; Daniel Gibbs 11.29; Zac McMillan 11.41; Hamish Mcerlie 11.43; Tim Anderson-Bonsor 11.49; Riley Yorke 12.49; Mason James 12.53; Lily Clarke 13.57; Bryan Ackerly 14; Mackenzie Graham 14.14; Tori Kincaid 14.37; Adele Ellis 14.38; Victoria James 14.38; Toby James 14.39; Elizabeth Coffey 14.43; Amelia Eldridge 16.13; Bethany Vine 16.15; Katie Clarke 16.55; Bradley McMeeken 17.08

Don’t forget to mark Saturday 25 May in your diaries... the Cockatoo Hills Challenge is a wonderful event.

Also please put your name down to be part of a team for the State XC Relays at Cruden Farm Langwarrin on Saturday June 8- this event is open for any registered child in U9 and above.

See you all next week at Lillydale Lake. Warm up at 8.45am with the first event starting at 9.00am. Anyone able to help with course set up (from 7.30am), timing, recording or pack up please contact the club on info@yarrarangesathletics.org.au or let us know on Saturday.

A reminder that the club AGM is at Morrison Reserve on Tuesday evening from 7.30pm. We need as many members as possible to be there, attending doesn’t mean you are, or want to be on the committee, but does show you have an interest in supporting our club.

Cross country training for all club members is onTuesday evenings from 5.30pm and Thursdays from 5.30pm at the Victoria Road Primary School gym. Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability.

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

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!

Harry Norman finished with a steady silver medal.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Mike Gilsenan made his return to competition croquet on Thursday 8 May. 241964

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

SPORT

Barkers, Argonauts share in the points

By Peter Stephenson

Cheltenham’s Shipston Reserve saw Mooroolbark Soccer Club’s senior men (equal sixth) travel to Bayside Argonauts (second), hoping to get back on track after a 1-2 loss to Chisholm United.

Coach Paul Burrows made four changes from the Chisholm game, with Ahren Angulo, Max Burrows, Ryan Smith and Jerome Valadon replacing Taylan Hakki, Dan Higgins, Ray Markley and Brett Tronconi. This was the first meeting between the clubs.

Argonauts attacked first and won a free kick in the second minute on the edge of the box. It was driven low to the far post, where keeper Mark Naumowicz punched clear.

Barkers, though, settled quickly and had plenty of possession and territory. On 14 minutes, Smith won the ball in Argonauts’ half and fed Ross Clark, whose shot stung the home keeper’s gloves. In particular, Valadon was working hard, causing problems up front as well as being willing to track back. The next chance saw Barkers force an error in the home defence and the ball fell to Steve Nittoli, who hit a snapshot over.

On the half hour, the home keeper was judged to have caught the ball outside his area. The ensuing free kick was driven into the wall and came to nothing. Two minutes later, the home defence cleared the ball to Nittoli, who hit a screamer destined for the top corner, but the keeper, where others might have athletically tipped the ball over, casually, almost effortlessly, caught the ball.

Nine minutes before the break, Clark crossed from the left for Valadon, whose low shot was deflected to the keeper. Then a Barkers long ball was headed on by Geordie Scott forValadon, who hit a first-time shot well wide. Half-time: Argonauts 0-0 Barkers, with a very promising half for Barkers against the wind, but nothing to show for it.

Just 30 seconds into the second half, Argonautsalmostbrokethedeadlockastheymoved the ball down the left, played the ball inside, and a snapshot forced an excellent reflex save from Naumowicz. Then, all of a sudden, Barkers’ work paid off. The ball was played inside to Scott, who hit a beautifully placed shot from

outside the box which squeezed between goalkeeper and post for 1-0 Barkers.

Now Naumowicz’s kicks, with the wind behind him, were probing very deep into home territory, but somehow the Barkers attack couldn’t capitalise on this. On the hour, one such bomb was flicked on by Scott forValadon, whose shot was deflected by the keeper onto the post, and Clark hit the rebound into the side netting. Argonauts almost made Barkers pay immediately, as they went forward, Barkers backed off, and a shot fizzed past the far post.

Argonauts finally had some momentum and on 67 minutes, a through ball on the right to the byline was cut back to the far post, where a shot was put wide. Then they whipped in a corner from the right to the far post, which

Naumowicz punched clear under pressure. Next a great crossfield ball from the left was volleyed wide by a home forward. Argonauts were huffing and puffing, but would they conquer the wind and blow Barkers’ house down?

Well yes they would. With 14 minutes left, they broke down the left wing, cut the ball back beautifully from the byline, and there was Mitch Cooper to tap the ball home to crown a lethal move and make it 1-1.

The final period of the game saw Argonauts put Barkers under siege, yet both sides were going for the win. After such a good start, it was Barkers who would come off the pitch more relieved with a point, while Argonauts’ frustrations boiled over after the final whistle as Liam Mckenna was red-carded. Full-time: Argonauts 1-1 Barkers.

Hard fought rallies in tough tennis round

By Joanna Campe

Round 3 results for Lilydale Tennis Club in the Eastern Region Tennis Competition.

Junior Open Singles Doubles 1 Lilydale v Monbulk

Lilydale was sitting outside the top four without a win yet for the season.

Lilydale was represented by Adam Paladino, Ari Marappan and Joshua Jamieson. Monbulk was represented by Ollie Barnard, Ben Daly and Henry Larkin.

Lilydale played away this week against fourth placed Monbulk. Lilydale fought hard with some terrific rallies played throughout the day, but Monbulk were too strong winning 6 sets to 0 – winning 38 games to Lilydale 16.

· Result: 7-6 (7-5), 6-1, 6-2, 6-2, 6-0, 7-5

Junior Open Singles Doubles 8 Lilydale v Upwey South

Lilydale was sitting in fifth position on the ladder.

Lilydale was represented by Haady Aziz, Brodie Manger and Olivia Mason.

Lilydale played at home this week against top of the table Upwey South. In a tough outing for Lilydale, Upwey proved too strong and won the day 6 sets to 0 – winning 37 games to Lilydale 12.

· Result: 1-6, 3-6, 1-6, 2-6, 0-6, 5-7 Open Rubbers 11 Lilydale v Warrandyte Blue Lilydale was sitting outside the top four, yet to record a win this season.

Lilydale Blue was represented by David Halkidis and Noah Burow.

Lilydale played away this week againstWar-

randyte. Lilydale fought hard but were outplayed on the day with Warrandyte winning the day 5 sets to 0 – winning 30 games to Lilydale 11.

· Result: 6-3, 6-3, 6-1, 6-2, 6-2

Open Rubbers 20 v North Ringwood

Lilydale was sitting outside the top 4 without a win yet for the season.

Lilydale was represented by Rishabh Chowdhury and Tim Bassett.

Lilydale played at home this week against North Ringwood. Lilydale came out strong

Barkerettes unbeaten streak ends

By Peter Stephenson

It was unseasonably warm as Barkers (first) travelled to Richmond’s Kevin Bartlett Reserve. Awaiting them was FC Melbourne Srbija (fourth), who had taken points off Monash City, so we knew it wouldn’t be easy.

Barkers’ first sight of goal came on 12 minutes with a shot from Amy D’Ortenzio fired at keeper Thivini Welihinda. A minute later, Anita Caro Salve tried her luck from distance, but Welihinda wasn’t troubled. Then the Barkers 7-Eleven one-two as D’Ortenzio and Emily Stokes combined, but D’Ortenzio’s shot was again at the keeper.

All this was to no avail as just before the half hour, a FCMS through ball split the Barkers defence, and a low shot finally went past keeper Ashleigh Fraraccio for her first goal conceded for over four and a half hours. Ten minutes later it got worse, as FCMS made it 2-0 with a low angled shot at the near post following a break down the right. Half-time: FCMS 2-0 Barkers, when it could easily have been the other way round.

Just before the hour, a long ball from Miranda Jackson found Stokes, but her shot was saved. As time was running out, Barkers had some luck. As Barkers attacked, the ball struck a defender’s hand and the referee pointed to the spot. Caro Salve stuck the ball calmly into the net to reduce the deficit to 2-1. Three minutes later, Alizah Jones slipped the ball inside for D’Ortenzio, but she shot wide, and that was as good as it got. Full-time: FC Melbourne Srbija 2-1 Mooroolbark.

Barkers were disappointing today. They looked hesitant at times, and in the second half found FCMS hard to break down as they packed the defence. Barkers definitely have the players to trouble any team in this league, so we’ll put this one down to experience.

with a win in the opening doubles. From then it was very competitive in the singles but Lilydale eventually won the day 3 sets to 2 – winning 22 games to North Ringwood 15.

· Result: 6-3, 6-0, 6-0, 3-6, 1-6

Lilydale Tennis club welcomes all players of any age and ability. For information on how to join Lilydale Tennis Club please visit play.tennis.com.au/lilydaletennisclub.

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

Lilydale and Monbulk had a tough match but had a lot of fun. Pictured L-R Ollie, Henry, Ben, Ari, Josh, Adam.

Amy D’Ortenzio fired two shots at goal but they were shielded by the keeper.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Geordie Scott squeezed a shot between the keeper and the goal post.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON