Mail - Upper Yarra Star Mail - 4th June 2024

On the course for a cause

By Callum Ludwig

Money was raised for two great causes at the Warburton Golf Club last week, with some high-profile names of the AFL’s yesteryear in attendance.

Organised by Warburton resident Lachie Pitman, a cast including AFL Hall of Famer Terry Daniher, brother of fellow AFL footballer and the founder and co-patron of FightMND Neale Daniher AO, exTiger and Magpie David Cloke, ex-Magpie Denis Banks and ex-Magpie and Bomber Peter Bradbury took the course in a fundraiser for the Variety Children’s Charity and FightMND.

Mr Daniher said it’s been fantastic from the foundation’s point of view to see local events in support popping up.

“The football and netball clubs have been terrific in a lot of the country areas and even suburban areas and the amount of trouble they go to, as Neale’s always quoted, ‘It’s all about having a bit of fun in fundraising’,” he said.

Turn to page 17 for more

By Dongyun Kwon

A Yarra Ranges landlord was frustrated when he heard news about Victoria Police’s most recent tactic to identify illegal tobacconists after his alleged experience of reporting a similar crime went unanswered.

Victoria Police recently announced it is working closely with councils across Victoria to distribute a letter to landlords as part of the investigative response to arson attacks at tobacco stores, advising of the adverse impacts on insurance coverage for illegal tobacco trading.

The Yarra Ranges landlord, who Star Mail has kept anonymous for safety reasons, rented his property to a tenant who was going to open a business for tobacco selling in 2018.

The purpose of the letter is to highlight to landlords the current risks posed to businesses engaged in illicit activity, whether active in the selling or not as a landlord, including the risk to current building and liability insurance arrangements as well as the potential for nearby businesses and properties to be adversely impacted by fires and other criminal activity.

A few months later, he realised his tenant was selling illicit tobacco.

He claimed he reported it to local police, Victoria Police, the Australian Federal Police and even the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), but no action was taken by any of them.

“It was frustrating because you don’t want to own a building and rent to someone doing illegal activity,” the landlord said.

Continued page 3

TerryDaniher(centre)withPeterBradbury(left)watchingonattheWarburtonGolfClub. 410512

Picture:STEWARTCHAMBERS

Resident hospitalised

By Callum Ludwig

One occupant of a home in Wesburn has been taken to hospital after a blaze erupted in the early hours of Saturday 25 May.

Thirteen CFA units responded from Wesburn/Millgrove, Hillcrest, Yarra Junction, Yellingbo and Little Yarra brigades at 4.44am.

“Crews worked to extinguish a fire in a multi-storey structure,” a CFA spokesperson said.

“Victoria Police and the local power company were also called to the scene.”

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson confirmed one woman in her 40s was transported by road ambulance to Maroondah Public Hospital with upper body injuries.

Wesburn/Millgrove CFA Captain Sascha Grant said the house was fully involved when they arrived.

“The one occupant in the house had selfevacuated by the time we got there and was suffering from a bit of smoke inhalation so Ambulance Victoria looked after them and transported them to hospital for observation,” he said.

“Surprisingly enough, we were able to contain the fire to the first floor, it was a doublestorey house and the construction of the property was conducive to saving the ground floor, which was a really good result for our members,”

“They started their initial attack through the windows externally, and once it was safe to do so, we had crews that went into the structure and extinguished the remaining hot spots on the first floor internally.”

The brick home’s foundation was a poured slab concrete floor, with both believed to have reduced the impact of the fire on the building’s structural integrity.

Mr Grant said after an initial assessment deemed it safe to proceed into the house, firefighters entered through the staircase at the rear of the building.

“They’re (the firefighters) trained to minimise the impact on the building and when going inside, they’re looking for any structural weaknesses or signs of collapse, that’s part of their training when they do structural firefighting and it’s a step-by-step process and they

FlameseruptfromtheWesburnhome.

Picture:RONMCINTOSH

certainly won’t go if there are any signs it’s not safe to do so,” he said.

The incident was deemed under control at 5.24am and declared safe at 5.34am.

Mr Grant said this is the second house fire in the area in the last couple of weeks, so it really is a timely reminder to brush up on fire safety measures.

“Check your smoke alarms are working, if you’ve got a coonara or open fire to have your flues cleared out and checked, and if you can, practice your home fire safety plan because the resident of our house on Saturday morning did an amazing job getting out of that house and staying as safe as possible,” he said.

“It might seem a bit silly at the time, but at three o’clock in the morning or five o’clock in the morning, as this one was, having practised that plan will save your life.”

Native timber support available now

Native timber harvesting has ended in Victoria but support is still available.

Native timber businesses, workers and communities can continue to access a range of support including:

• The Victorian Forestry Worker Support Program –including payments and training, 1:1 case management, employment services, health and wellbeing support.

• Business support

– including exit packages and funding to help diversify.

• Community support

– health and wellbeing services and community development planning and funding.

For more information:

• Forestry Transition hotline1800 318 182

• Victorian Forestry Worker Support Program - 1800 122 001 vic.gov.au/forestry

Occupant escapes safely from intense house fire

By Dongyun Kwon

A house in Healesville went up in flames around 3pm on Thursday 30 May.

Six CFA units, Healesville, Yarra Glen, Coldstream, Badger Creek, Bayswater and Yellingbo, responded to the house fire on Goondah Lane in Healesville.

Healesville CFA captain Brian Earl said when they arrived at the house, they found it well-alight.

“It was a two-storey weatherboard place burning quite well,” he said.

“It took a significant time to bring it under control.

“We believe it [the cause] is part of cooking in the kitchen that was left unattended.”

The resident, who was the only person in

the house at the time, safely self-evacuated from the severe fire.

“They were out before triple zero was called.” Mr Earl said.

The incident was deemed under control at 3.46pm.

Mr Earl said the crews stayed at the scene until 10pm.

“Once we got it under control, then we had to fully extinguish,” he said.

“The layout of the house and then some of the items within the house made it a little bit challenging to fully put out smouldering for quite some time.

“[I’d like to highlight for the community to] maintain awareness while cooking and also another push for checking and good work in smoke alarms.”

CFAcrewsstayedatthesceneuntil10pm.Theincidentwasdeemedundercontrolat 3.46pm.

SixCFAunitsrespondedtothefire.

Picture:DONGYUNKWON

Tragic drowning

By Callum Ludwig

A man has died after falling into theYarra River in East Warburton on Wednesday 29 May.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said police will prepare a report for the Coroner following the death.

“Emergency services were called to reports that a man had fallen into water off Cement Creek Road about 3pm,” they said.

“The man’s body was recovered following a search,”

“The death is not being treated as suspicious.”

A near seven-hour search was carried out for the man by Victoria Police and SES crews, with Ambulance Victoria paramedics on standby.

Upper Yarra SES Unit Controller Hannah Brunton said they were paged to an inland water rescue and dispatchers advised them that a person had fallen off a log while walking across the river.

“He was not able to be located by his friends and family so that triggered us and the police to head out there and we were supported by the Lilydale SES Swift Water Rescue team, Manningham and Maroondah SES Boat Rescue crews and Victoria Police had their boats as well,” she said.

“We also provided lighting to the scene just to help Victoria Police be able to do what they needed to do in the water.”

The water where the incident occurred is a relatively deep part of the river, with some areas where the water was fast-moving and others where the water was almost still.

Ms Brunton said there’s a lot of dangers around the river that people might not be aware of.

“There’s always so much debris in the river, it’s something that’s really stressful because obviously, we can’t remove it because it’s ani-

mal habitat, but a lot of people who don’t realise the danger can very easily get stuck or get injured,” she said.

“The water can also quickly become very fast-moving once there is a bit of rain, I think people need to have a lot more water awareness around rivers because there are a lot of campaigns about safety around pools and things like that, but rivers and creeks have a lot of danger factors that they can’t be accounted for or be predicted,”

“People need to know their ability, and if they don’t know the area or if they don’t know if they’re capable, just take the safe option and stay away.”

The incident occurred in an offshoot of the Yarra River behind the popular Redwood Forest.

Ms Brunton confirmed that SES crew members involved in the search were being supported.

“Before we’d even finished up the job, we had spoken to SES peer support to get our guys the help that they may or may not need, we have a lot of resources and police have a lot of resources, it’s the most important thing, especially in the event that we don’t have a great outcome,” she said.

“The trauma may not impact straight away, but in days, weeks, months down the track, you might realise that it’s been playing on your mind a little bit more than you expected it to so there’s always support there for us when we need it and we rely very heavily on each other.”

Landlord left frustrated by inaction

From page1

“It’s like you’re running an illegal brothel but you can’t evict them until police have made a charge or there’s actual hard evidence. The Small Business Commission, who are responsible for all the commercial leases, says you can’t evict unless there’s a charge or police involvement and if the police aren’t involved then you have to let them run their business. They can’t do anything about it.”

According to his claim, the tenant already moved out of this landlord’s property but is still selling illegal products across the Yarra Ranges as well as Melbourne.

The landlord said the tenant left rent unpaid with three months’ worth still owing.

“Our biggest frustration was during Covid lockdowns. He still traded but didn’t pay rent,” he said.

“That’s when we started doing the ATO crime stopper report, just to have that log with the police. Unfortunately, no one ever called us back. No one ever did anything.

“I had a chat with the cops, they are aware of it and what we got told was the Federal Police are aware. They said they know who he is but it’s too difficult.”

The tobacco store was broken into twice previously.

“(As far as I know, the only action that police took was) the crime scene police came out once after a break-in,” the landlord said.

The Herald Sun reported that tobacco store owners have been threatened by criminal syndicates to sell illegal products.

“There was a legitimate concern that the tenant had some gang affiliation, and if that was the case, what kind of blowback there might be by evicting them, going to the police or by not renewing their lease,” the landlord said.

“I’m happy to [make a report to police] again but will that make any difference?”

Two letters are being distributed byVictoria Police, one for properties where warrants have been executed and illicit products have been seized, while the second is more general.

Landlords of properties currently rented to businesses selling tobacco should expect to receive a letter in the next fortnight.

Victoria Police Crime Command Acting Commander Jason Kelly said police alone cannot solve these issues around organised crime and illicit tobacco.

“More than ever, assistance and information from store owners, staff, other shop owners and members of the community is crucial,” he said.

“The intelligence they can provide may be crucial in preventing an arson attack or holding those involved in serious criminality to account. We encourage anyone with information to speak to police, or information can also be provided to police anonymously via Crime Stoppers.

“Not only does this criminal behaviour put neighbouring businesses and innocent members of the community at risk, it may impact any potential insurance payout to the building owner. Those owners need to be aware of this and be aware of who is leasing the buildings they own.”

IN BRIEF

Man transported to hospital due to car collision

Emergency services responded to a car accident on Melba Highway in Toolangi around 12.45pm on Friday 31 May.

Five CFA units,Victoria Police, SES and Ambulance Victoria attended the road accident.

The crash involved a school bus and 4WD.

“A man was transported by road to Royal Melbourne Hospital with upper body injuries,” an Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said. It was under control at 1.15pm and deemed safe at 1.48pm.

Measles and mpox warning for

Victorian travellers

Victorians planning overseas travel this winter are being urged by the Department of Health to ensure their routine and travel vaccinations are up to date.

The call comes amid an increasing number of returned travellers to Victoria presenting with vaccine- preventable travel-related illnesses, such as measles and mpox.

Ten measles cases have been reported in Victoria this year, five of which were from returned overseas travellers, with a further five linked to those cases.

Meanwhile, there has been a local outbreak of mpox with cases reported in Victoria this year which were acquired from overseas travel.

Victorian Chief Health Officer Dr Clare Looker said anyone planning travel overseas should seek advice from their doctor before booking.

“It’s best to see your doctor six to eight weeks before you travel to ensure you have the best protection,” Dr Looker said.

“This includes anyone travelling to visit friends and family, or people travelling to their countries of birth.”

Dr Looker said measles in people returning to Victoria from international travel was a significant source of Australian measles cases.

“Travellers should ensure they have received two doses of measles-containing vaccine.”

There has also been an increase in mpox cases at many popular travel destinations in the northern hemisphere.

Dr Looker said Victorians should take precautions when overseas to limit their risk of infection.

“Mpox infection remains a risk for Victorians travelling internationally, with case numbers in Victoria this year greater than the whole of last year,” she said.

Those planning travel to countries with active mpox outbreaks should make time to receive two doses of the vaccine, 28 days apart, for optimal protection, with those most at risk including men who have sex with men.

The mpox vaccine is free for those eligible and is available through more than 250 providers across Victoria.

GPs can advise on travel health and vaccine-preventable diseases, such as influenza and Covid-19, gastrointestinal illnesses, hepatitis A and typhoid as can pharmacists participating in the Community Pharmacy Prescribing Pilot.

Doctors can also advise if you need booster shots to catch-up on vaccines that have been missed.

“Being up to date with influenza and COVID-19 vaccination before travel is also important to protect yourself while travelling,” she said.

A man has died after falling into the Yarra River in East Warburton.

Picture: LJUBICA VRANKOVIC

Victoria Police is encouraging anyone with information regarding illicit tobacco trading to make a report. Picture: UNSPLASH

Lawyer barred for two years

By Callum Ludwig

The principal/director of Yarra Ranges Lawyers, Kristy Burrows, has been barred from practising for two years following a ruling from VCAT.

Brought to the tribunal by the Victorian Legal Services Commissioner (VLSC), Ms Burrows was initially charged with knowingly creating, or directing a junior lawyer under her to create, a false document, knowingly directing a junior lawyer to send a false document to the State Revenue Office (SRO), failing to provide adequate advice to a client regarding stamp duty exemptions and acting for both parties in a real estate transaction with a related loan agreement without advising the parties about the conflict of interest and obtaining their informed consent.

A statement fromYarra Ranges Ranges Lawyers on behalf of Ms Burrows said always with her client’s best interests in mind and at heart, Ms Burrows made an error of judgement in late 2018 in relation to the process in which she submitted a document and as a result, has had her practising certificate cancelled for two years.

“As a person who has always navigated the legal system with the utmost integrity, diligence, and care on behalf of her clients and with the law and due process centred firmly in her practice, she is deeply affected by her mistake and its outcome,” it reads.

“Yarra Ranges Lawyers will remain focused on representing clients and seeking the best possible outcome every time. Reassuringly, the practice will be guided by experienced lawyer Chantel Graham who has stepped into the role of principal lawyer,”

“Kristy is proud and confident of the team at Yarra Ranges Lawyers and will use this time productively and in a way that will benefit her team, clients and community as the firm’s practice manager to ensure the firm’s values

and excellent client service remain.”

Around 27 July 2017, Ms Burrows was instructed by a client Mrs Rich and her daughter and the complainant in the case Ms Angela Cuskrin, to act for each of them in a real estate transaction with Ms Burrows drafting a loan agreement related to the conveyance of a property from Mrs Rich to Ms Cuskrin.

On 18 October that year, Mrs Rich and Ms Cuskrin signed and executed the loan agreement for $300,000 with no term requiring the loan be paid in instalments. Exactly a month later, they signed and executed a contract for the sale of the property at a price of $600,000.

On about 16 December 2017, the SRO contacted Ms Burrows to inform her that as it was a transaction between related parties, Ms Cuskrin would need to supply proof of payment of the $600,000 purchase to be eligible for the first home buyer concession/exemption to be granted.

Ms Burrows emailed Ms Cuskrin on 10 January 2018 to inform her of the SRO’s requirements, as well as to say that her lender had refused to extend the loan to cover the stamp

duty and that Ms Cuskrin would need to pay the full amount and seek a refund after settlement.

Five days later, the stamp duty was paid and the property was settled another two weeks later

On 27 March 2018, Ms Burrows submitted the application for a refund on the stamp duty on behalf of Ms Cuskrin.

At 10.43am on 15 June 2018, the SRO emailed Ms Burrows, denying the application as the property’s market value was $600,000, and the SRO had only been provided with proof of payment of the amount of $291,462, obtained by a bank loan while the loan agreement between Mrs Rich and Ms Cuskrin could not be considered as it did not include a repayment schedule.

At 1.08 pm on 15 June 2018, Ms T, a junior solicitor under the supervision of Ms Burrows emailed the SRO, attaching a loan agreement dated 26 October 2017, in which the lender had required repayments be referenced and was signed by both parties, which Ms Cuskrin said was created without instruction.

On 17 September 2018, the SRO requested bank statements of Mrs Rich and Ms Cuskrin to indicate that monthly repayments had been made as per the falsified loan agreement.

On 3 October 2018, the SRO contacted Ms Burrows to indicate the objection was disallowed as Ms Cuskrin had not made any repayments on the loan prior to 26 September 2018 and Mrs Rich had not registered a mortgage or caveat over the property in accordance with the 26 October Loan Agreement, so the $300,000 loan could not be considered.

Ms Cruskin made a complaint to the VLSC about the advice she received from Ms Byurrows about her eligibility for the stamp duty concession and about the creation of the 26 October document without instruction.

In May and July 2022, Ms Burrows’ solicitors responded to letters from the VLSC requesting information from her regarding conversations with the bank lender and her directions to Ms T in drafting the email.

In the VCAT decision, VCAT Member N Campbell stated that Ms Burrows’ conduct is extremely serious and represents a shocking departure from the professional obligations of legal practitioners

“The conduct was intended to obtain a benefit for Ms Burrows’ client to which the client was not entitled. The conduct was to mask an error in the advice given by Ms Burrows,” it reads.

“Misleading others in the course of practice undermines the foundations of trust that the community must have in legal practitioners.”

The Tribunal concluded that a period away from practice of two years is appropriate to reflect the serious nature of the misconduct and signal ‘the need for honesty in the practice of law and candour with the regulator’, while Ms Burrows will also have to undertake continuing professional development to practise again and pay the VLSC’s $20,000 legal costs.

The principal lawyer/ director of Yarra Ranges Lawyers has been barred from practising for two years by VCAT. Picture: ON FILE

Group to take legal action

By Callum Ludwig

Warburton Environment (WE) has lodged a case in the Federal Court against the Victorian Government following the death of a greater glider in the Yarra Ranges National Park in what has been a turbulent few months in the local forest.

WE is seeking injunctions from the court to halt what they call ‘logging’, and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) insist is the ‘removal of hazardous trees for bushfire risk mitigation’, carried out by Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic).

President of WE Nic Fox said it’s outrageous that community groups are forced to take legal action to stop the Victorian Government killing endangered wildlife.

“Community groups shouldn’t have to continually fight their way through the legal system to make the government accountable to its own laws and policies,” she said.

“Logging clearly isn’t finished inVictoria, it’s just business as usual under a different name, and even Victoria’s most iconic National Parks aren’t safe from the government’s logging industry.”

The forest in the Central Highlands, including the Yarra Ranges National Park and the Yarra State Forest, has been caught up in the furore of what steps should be taken next following the end of native forest logging inVictoria that began on 1 January. TheVictorian Government declared that an advisory panel would determine opportunities to qualify the 1.8 million hectares of forest previously slated for logging for expanding National Parks, land management byTraditional Owners and recreation opportunities such as camping, hunting, hiking, mountain biking and four-wheel driving.

In the immediate aftermath of the native forest logging announcement, the Star Mail spoke to the Founding member of the Great Forest National Park (GFNP) proposal and Toolangi resident Sarah Rees, who said the proposal had been a long process.

“What came to the public in 2013/14 as a result of the Black Saturday fires was a push to conserve the last unburnt and unlogged areas, to ensure species persist in the landscape, we protect our water, we keep our best carbon stocks in the land and ultimately to also rebuild and reenergize regional communities with recreational opportunities,” she said in May 2023.

“What will also be important is the deployment of people who are really good at managing this land to get out there, we’ve got to keep our fire breaks open, we’ve got to keep our roads open so hopefully we will see jobs increase, not decrease.”

The Victorian Government’s Eminent Panel for Community Engagement began targeted initial conversations in November and December 2023 before opening up public consultation from 18 March to 6 May this year, which included local community engagements in the Yarra Ranges, Cardinia, Mitchell, Murrindindi and Baw Baw areas. The panel’s report is set to be handed down in June 2024 with the State

Government to consider it over the coming months.

On the other side of the coin, a significant movement has also started to keep state forests accessible for recreational activities, with hundreds gathering at a rally in Drouin on Sunday 26 May.

Bush users fear that the Eminent Panel report will favour the recommendation of the Victorian Environmental Assessment Council (VEAC), which put forward that 300,000 hectares of state forest would be suitable to be considered national parks, similar but not quite as expansive as the GFNP proposal.

In late May, a coalition of the Australian Deer Association, Australian Bowhunters Association, Field and Game Australia, the Gippsland Deer Stalkers, The Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (Victoria) and Dog HuntersVictoria announced they are united in retaining public land access, representing a membership of over 70,000 Victorians and the interests of a quarter of a million recreational shooters and hunters in Australia.

The Australian Deer Association’s head of Advocacy, Sean Kilkenny told the Star Mail this is a huge amount of public land that recreational users have sustainably used for over a hundred years.

“The groundswell of public support to maintain the status quo is a testament to the value placed on this land by recreational users and we are encouraged by the government’s

establishment of the Great Outdoors Taskforce; it demonstrates a recognition of the sustainable use of recreational activities in the bush,” he said.

“A national park was only floated to end native timber harvesting; with that now ended, the campaign for a national park ends with it.”

In April, environmental groups including WE, Wildlife of the Central Highlands (WOTCH), Forest Conservation Victoria and the Victorian Forest Alliance began to raise concerns about tree removal works being carried out by FFMVic in the existing national parks, including the Yarra Ranges National Park, with peaceful protests held to campaign against works being done in areas that the endangered Southern greater gliders and critically endangered Leadbeater’s Possums among other species call home. The groups also claim they reported areas and specific trees that greater gliders were spotted in which were still cut down.

A spokesperson for WOTCH Hayley Forster said they’ve had enough.

“Victoria’s own Environment Department is knowingly killing threatened wildlife,” she said.

“They are logging our iconic wildlife into extinction under the guise of fire management, all whilst marking their own homework to greenlight dodgy loophole logging operations.”

WE allege that the removal of trees is a fed-

eral offence under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC Act), including pointing to one tree cut down on Friday 24 May measured almost 9.5 metres in circumference and should have been protected according to state prescriptions to preserve large trees with a diameter over 2.5 metres as well as the death of the greater glider.

WE’s solicitor Jamie King said the Commonwealth, in keeping with its international treaty obligations, has enacted laws prohibiting unauthorised actions likely to have a significant impact on threatened species.

“The Victorian government is engaging in criminal conduct by its unauthorised destruction of important habitat for the endangered Southern greater glider and critically endangered Leadbeater’s Possum,” he said.

The group also hopes the court action will put pressure on Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek to enact compliance and enforcement action, having also pointed to inconsistencies in the actions of FFMVic the Ms Plibersek’s ‘National recovery plan for Leadbeater’s possum’ released in March. The environmental groups have also warned Ms Plibersek in a letter that former VicForests contractors ‘cannot be trusted to protect critical habitat.’

The Victorian Forest Alliance and its President Dr Sue Lewis have also pledged support for its member group, WE.

The future of the forest remains uncertain.

Picture: ON FILE

Vacant home crackdown

By Callum Ludwig

The spotlight continues to be placed on vacant housing with the Victorian government and individuals each taking action to free up homes to be lived in.

The Victorian Government announced last week that hundreds of apartments had been identified as vacant and eligible for the vacant residential land tax (VRLT) after a compliance crackdown, while trained lawyer and social media personality Jordan Van Den Berg made headlines recently for his efforts in identifying vacant homes and offering them to people without a roof over their heads.

Don Valley resident Wayne Long said he had noticed a vacant property in his town and wondered why it couldn’t be utilised as a shelter for the homeless or those facing a crisis.

“It’s been vacant for quite a number of years now, ever since Haining Farm closed down and was turned into a reserve,” he said.

“In my view, it is a waste of a house sitting there empty when there are people out there wanting to have housing, who are living under bridges and I’m surprised squatters haven’t moved in already,”

“Parks Victoria is not in the business of making money so whether the tenants who move in there, they could pay the rates on the place or cover any maintenance that needs to be done, because I know Parks Victoria can’t take rental money and you still have to pay your way, but there could be something done.”

The property in question is an old farmhouse on land that previously belonged to the owners of Haining Farm and was bequeathed to Parks Victoria alongside the farm. The cottage is disconnected from the Haining Farm site itself and Parks Victoria staff have been spotted occasionally parking staff vehicles there.

Parks Victoria and Yarra Ranges Council are in talks regarding the site’s future as part of the

Upper Yarra Local Development Project.

Currently, the VLRT only applies to Melbourne’s inner and middle suburbs but from 1 January next year, it will apply to all homes across the state if they are left vacant for more than six months in the preceding calendar year.

Through the VLRT, a home or apartment not used as a principal place of residence will need to be rented out for at least six months each year to avoid receiving a VRLT assessment the following year and the rate of tax will be escalated in consecutive years the land is deemed liable for the VRLT. One year vacant will result in a tax rate of 1 per cent of the capital improved value, increasing to two per cent after two years and three per cent after three

or more years.

Holiday homes, properties held in trusts, owned by companies or that are usually exempt from land tax, such as those owned by a charity, are exempt from the VLRT.

Following the Victorian Government sharing recent stats on their VLRT compliance crackdown on 24 May, MrVan Den Berg shared a video across his social media where he said the crackdown is objectively a good thing but there are some downsides to the announcement, particularly regarding the exemptions.

“What this means is that Victoria’s richest landlords can put their residential property or their investment property into a trust or a company account like a self-managed super fund or something like that and be exempt

from this tax,” he said.

“There are a number of Victorian Labor Government ministers who have properties that are held in trust investment properties that will be exempt from this land tax and I think that’s not fair,”

“I think this is a really good step in the right direction but I think that exemption should be removed completely.”

The Australia Bureau of Statistics (ABS) ‘Administrative data snapshot of population and housing’ (ADS) released in August 2023 used both 2021 Census data and experimental administrative data to try and provide a more detailed snapshot of housing in reference to 30 June 2021.

According to data from the Multi-agency data integration project (MADIP), 88.8 per cent of homes in Victoria are believed to be primary residences. The MADIP data also estimates that 1.3 per cent of Victorian homes showed no sign of recent use, backed up by electricity use data which had the figure at 1.4 per cent.

At the time of the 2021 Census, there were 2,810,775 dwellings in Victoria. 1.3 per cent of that figure equates to 36,540 dwellings, while 1.4 per cent equals about 39,351 dwellings. Data can also be viewed on inactive houses in specific regions or Local Government Areas:

· In the Yarra Ranges LGA, 446 (0.88 per cent) of the area’s 61,597 homes were deemed inactive.

· In Knox, 291 (0.5 per cent) homes were inactive out of 62,113.

· In Maroondah, 314 (0.7 per cent) homes were inactive out of 46,884.

· In Cardinia, 248 0.6 per cent) homes were inactive out of 43,116.

Victorians can notify the State Revenue Office about a vacant property that could be used as a home or developed at sro.vic.gov.au/ tipoffs.

The old Haining Farm farmhouse in Don Valley is vacant,with Parks Victoria discussing the future of the site with Yarra Ranges Council. Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

‘Blackspots’ for program

By Callum Ludwig

The future of the Federal Government’s Mobile Blackspot Program (MBSp) remains unknown after no funding was announced in the 2024/25 Budget, despite an audit into the funding declaring it met fairness guidelines this month.

Since the first round of funding was announced in 2015, 1400 projects have been funded through the program including building new mobile towers, upgrading existing towers to 5G, adapting towers to be used by multiple telecommunication providers and making towers more disaster-resilient.

Casey MP Aaron Violi is calling for the program to be reinstated and said it could still have a significant positive impact if it was brought back.

“We’ve seen the long list of areas from the Hills to the Upper Yarra and East Warburton to Healesville, a lot of communities have benefited from the Black Spot Program, but the work’s not finished,” he said.

“We recently saw in Kalorama the issues with the Chestnut Festival, and I’ve been working to try and get a temporary fix, but that’s another location where we’d actually funded a tower under the program but couldn’t find a location that suited the community.”

After the Labor Government was elected in 2022, the administered funding for the MBSP was reallocated; $40 million ending 30 June 2025 to the Improving Mobile Coverage Round (IMCR) and $39.1 million for additional rounds of the Peri-Urban Mobile Program over three years.

The Labor Government identified 54 target locations and announced them during the 2022 election campaign; 40 of those were in Labor electorates (74 per cent), 11 in Liberal electorates (20 per cent), two in an electorate held by the Centre Alliance (four per cent) and one in an electorate held by Katter’s Australian

Party (two per cent) prior to the election.

41 grants in 42 locations were also announced in September 2023.

Mr Violi said despite the findings of the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) that the awarding of funding met guidelines, it absolutely could have been allocated more fairly.

“In Victoria, 100 per cent of the funding went to Labor-held seats, and across all of Australia, 80 per cent of the funding went to Labor-held seats or marginal target seats that they were focused on,” he said.

“While the report showed that it was within the guidelines that were issued by the Minister, it also showed that essentially the department’s hands were tied, and the allocation of locations was political in nature,”

“It was clear that the then opposition, now the government, allocated those towers based on politics and then reverse-engineered the program to go through the department, which is really disappointing when we think about the importance of communications every day.”

Despite the ANAO finding the design and

award of funding was ‘largely effective’, it recommended that the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts should in future collect data and undertake strategic analysis to guide the program (accepted by the Government) and provide advice on the relative merits for selecting targeted locations over other mobile black spot areas (accepted in part).

It also recommended that the department review program objectives, update the grant opportunity guidelines, develop an evaluation plan and conduct an evaluation in the next 12 months, all of which were agreed to.

In a summary response to the report provided by Department Secretary Jim Betts, he said the department agrees and agrees in part with the recommendations and acknowledges the areas of improvement.

“The department is confident in its approach to implementing the Government’s priorities, including election commitments, through well considered grant opportunities to deliver on policy objectives, such as was done through the IMCR,” he said.

“The department acknowledges the opportunity the audit provides to improve our processes as part of our continuous approach to grants administration and to address the areas for improvement raised in the report.”

The lack of further funding for the MBSP also comes as concerns arise about the shutdown of Australia’s 3G, with Telstra pushing back its closure date by two months as major telcos struggle to confirm with customers that they have upgraded to 4G or 5G compatible devices.

Mr Violi said he has invited Shadow Minister for Communications David Coleman to visit the community in the next few weeks to hear first-hand about the challenges in Casey.

“I’m concerned about the 3G shut down and I’ve been working with Telstra and Optus

and the relevant authorities to make sure that we can minimise the impact on our community, “

“I know it’s been delayed a couple of times and until the Minister can assure all community members that their communications won’t be impacted, I don’t think we should move forward with it,”

“I’ll certainly be lobbying internally with Shadow Minister Coleman and others, my wish is that we reinstate the program or come up with another option that can help fix black spots because it is a huge issue for our community.”

Vodaphone shut down its 3G coverage in December 2023 while Telstra and Optus will shut down their networks at the end of August and September respectively.

Sassafras resident Dr Peter Brennan has advocated for telecommunications resilience in the area and previously worked with ConnectingVictoria in the wake of the 2021 storm, said he believes Australia needs an integrated strategy to improve connectivity going forward, bringing together our mobile, electricity and internet coverage.

“Moving everything online and onto the internet means that in terms of telecommunications, electricity and NBN internet access, all of those things have to be sustainable, reliable and probably just as importantly, affordable,” he said.

“The concept of thinking about one without thinking about it being integrated with the other two components so that you have that sustainable system is a strategic failure on behalf of the government, whether that’s local, state or federal,”

“They’re so busy marching towards internet banking or towards cashless societies and talking about all those things that no one’s taking the time to say, ‘What is the infrastructure that is critical to achieving that?”

Further funding is yet to be announced through the Mobile Blackspot Program despite connectivity concerns persisting.

Picture: UNSPLASH

Council twigs to tree need

By Dongyun Kwon

Yarra Ranges Council (YRC) announced its Tree Canopy Strategy (TCS) set up after the community consultation.

The TCS aims to conserve and enhance Yarra Ranges’ leafy character, culturally significant landscapes and unique biodiversity through the protection, management and planting of trees, which will improve liveability, support community health and wellbeing, maintain ecosystems and enhance local tourism.

Under the TCS, YRC will increase tree canopy cover on public land, while specifically increasing cover in built-up areas, with targeting to have 35 per cent canopy cover and provide a minimum of 25 per cent canopy cover for all suburbs and towns in built-up areas by 2044.

Lyster Ward councillor Johanna Skelton said she is looking forward to seeing the implementation of the plan.

“It’s going to be quite an incredible feat if we can achieve that 35 per cent,” she said.

“I love the idea of having the suburbs and towns in the built-up areas with a 25 per cent target because it is those areas like Chirnside Park that really need our attention for street tree planting programs and people have been keen to see that for a really long time.

“It’s great to see that the biodiversity perspective will be considered. It’s great to see that they’re looking at how they can work with local growers to see what tree species are going well and what are likely to go well into the climate change future.”

YRC will also focus on minimising tree risks, particularly tree risks associated with bushfires and storms by including plans to reduce hazardous trees along roadsides for bushfire preparedness and successfully establish 95 per cent of new street tree plantings, inclusive of formative pruning in the TCS.

The TCS also recognises the impact of climate change and extreme weather events including heat waves, flooding and drought.

Billanook Ward councillor Tim Heenan said it’s important to manage the trees in the right place with the right species.

“We’ve had numerous complaints over many years that people just want trees cut down,” he said.

“The reason why they want them cut down, particularly in some of our suburban locations, is they probably shouldn’t have been planted there in the first place. It was the wrong species to choose.

“Our plan indicates that we’re going to have proper management of that now.”

Cr Heenan also highlighted the importance of protecting culturally significant non-Indige-

nous trees in public areas.

“I’m not taking anything away from our Indigenous bush, but this is what happens where the protection or the opportunity to plant Indigenous [trees] has always been there for a very long time,” he said.

“But, we need to protect and care for the culturally significant non-Indigenous trees in areas too.”

The Tree Canopy Strategy is set to improve liveability, support community health and wellbeing, maintain ecosystems and enhance local tourism.

Picture: DONGYUN KWON

NEWS Budget pressure ramps up

By Callum Ludwig

Yarra Ranges Council have heard from community groups on their draft budget for 2024/25, holding a submissions hearing on Tuesday 28 May.

Representatives of the Kallista Flood Watch group, Warburton Advancement League, the Heritage Golf and Country Club, the Lilydale FloodWatch group, the Olinda Bike Trail Committee and a resident with concerns about Edinburgh Road all spoke at the meeting.

Mark Kestigian from the Kallista Flood Watch group said Kallista has fallen into decline and dilapidation through a lack of sustainable infrastructure upgrades over the past four decades.

“Residents seek relief from third-world conditions existing on Gleghorn Road, Emberson Street and Rivington Avenue, all three should be declared priority roads if not already and receive much-needed drainage and sealing infrastructure,” he said.

“What we face is unfair and unreasonable with roads that pose risk to safety and well-being, where emotional anxiety is linked to every storm pattern that is announced and where because there are no footpaths, residents of all ages fall into gravel roads sustaining injuries.”

The Kallista Flood Watch group hope for Yarra Ranges Council to pledge to seal 5.7 kilometres of roads in the township, complementing a potential upgrade on Monbulk Road by the State Government and recent drainage works on Emberson Street and the sealing of 100 metres of Gleghorn Road carried out by Yarra Ranges Council.

David Pratt spoke on behalf of the Warburton Advancement League and the Cerini Centre for Social and Affordable Housing Development project next.

Mr Pratt said he’d like the Council to seriously look at investment in social and affordable housing and dealing with homelessness

“Back in the 1970s and 80s the state government would identify areas where there was a lack of social housing, but we don’t live in that world anymore, they’ve outsourced it to registered housing providers, and those housing providers do have the money to build homes, they just don’t have the money to find sites,” he said.

“You guys have got all the tools, and we’re

not asking you to solve homelessness, but if you can deliver a package to these registered housing providers that have the pre-planning done, the cultural heritage management plan, the arboricultural assessment and all of those, they are willing to snap it up and they are willing to fully fund it.”

Mr Pratt also mentioned that the Warburton Advancement League is ready to pledge $1000 to Stable One’s Winter Shelter program, where $42 sponsors a night in a bed at a winter shelter for someone experiencing homelessness and challenged Yarra Ranges Council to consider a donation.

Mr Pratt also said that once a Cultural Heritage Management Plan is in place, Catholic Care Housing will submit a planning permit to Yarra Ranges Council for the Cerini Centre project and once approved, will pursue the $6 million in funding from the Federal Government to fund it.

Chairman of the Owners Corporation at the Heritage Golf and Country Club in Chrinside Park John Wyke spoke next and called for the resort to get a rate rebate.

“We are requesting an annual rate rebate due to the non-provision of services by Coun-

cil and to be on the same effective rate as the surrounding rural area,” he said.

“All major roads at the Heritage are listed on Council’s road register with the Owners Corporation responsible for maintaining those roads and the heritage is open for tourist-related activities for the visiting public at least 12 hours per day, seven days a week plus after hours for conventions, weddings and things like that.”

“The Heritage has two world-class golf courses and a wellness retreat that attracts visitors to the Yarra Valley and hosts several PGA events during the year that attract professional golfers and their entourage for weeklong events.”

The Owners Corporation amended their initial request for a 50 per cent rebate down to 30 per cent. Under the Local Government Act, councils can grant a rebate for land where the general rate applies if it is being used for public benefits.

A number of Lilydale residents spoke about their continued flooding concerns and the relative lack of funding in the draft budget for specific areas prone to flooding in the township.

“The camber of Chapel Street, a Council

road, is angled so that the flow of street water is directed back into our properties instead of draining away into Olinda Creek,” Rosemary Mosely said on behalf of residents of Chapel Street.

“I live on Morokai Grove, it constantly floods for 64 houses…it’s flooded three or four times in the last 12 months,” one of the founders of the Lilydale Flood Watch group Jodie Thexton said.

“28 Nimblefoot Way is the area and the site that we are proposing you increase your draft allocation of $150,000 to $400,000 to fix the under-road drainage on the corner here and also to install a detention basin,” said Nimblefoot Way resident Michelle.

Chairman of the Olinda Bike Trail Committee RonThomas attended to once again call for the Council’s support for the proposed project.

“There’s just a few little spots that need to be connected, a couple of road crossings, upgrade of the surface and we’re asking only for a tiny bit of money, less than $150,000 for a feasibility study which is going to give this shire and everyone in this room, an asset that will be there forever,” he said.

“The project is not only to improve access to and foster a greater appreciation of our unique environment, but also to allow our community to travel to local villages without relying on cars, by doing so, it will simulate existing local businesses, who are many of our supporters, and encourage the creation of new enterprises like baggage people.”

Malcolm Tulloch was last to speak, once again raising his concerns about Edinburgh Road in Lilydale to the Council.

“Every time I leave my home to go anywhere I must transit via Edinburgh Road and as such I’m acutely aware of the inadequacies of said road particularly as it affects morning and evening traffic servicing the various schools either on or in close proximity to it,” he said.

“We’ve proposed that a less expensive but safely adequate project could be implemented with what we have described as the three-step process… Stage One Hull Road to Allenby Road, Stage Two Allenby Road to Belfast Road and Stage Three Belfast Road to the presently completed Swansea Road connection.”

Residents of the area want to see the road width increased and drainage improvements delivered with swales.

Council aged care services set to cease by July

By Mikayla van Loon

With Yarra Ranges Council set to transition out of some aged care services at the end of June, volunteers and residents were still without answers of the new services less than a month ago.

A meals on wheels volunteer, who spoke to Star Mail on the condition of anonymity, said their client base had dropped from 22 to five by March but barely any communication had been delivered on what was happening.

“We received a letter in September and then another in October but we haven’t heard anything,” they said in early May.

The volunteer said at that time it was rumoured the council was “trying to find someone to take over” the service which they said left “recipients stressed and unsure” about the future of their meals.

Receiving an email onWednesday 22 May, the volunteer said that was the first lot of communication about the new service provider and the official end date of the council’s meals on wheels operation which would be 30 June.

The Australian Government’s Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) which has provided local councils with funding since 2015 to provide in-home care and other support was given an overhaul after the Royal Commission into Aged Care.

Yarra Ranges Council confirmed the Federal Government had now appointed the service providers for meals, transport and social support, all ceasing as a council service at the end of June.

Anglican Aged Care Services Group, better

known as Benetas, will take over the delivery of meals.

EV Strengthening Communities, formerly known as Eastern Volunteers, Bridges Connecting Communities Limited (Bridges) and Healesville Interchurch Community Care Inc (HICCI) have been appointed as the transport service providers.

Bridges and Tabulam and Templer Homes for the Aged (Accent Home Care) will be the provider of social support group services.

“All providers are experienced in delivering the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCP) and have a good reputation in the aged care sector,” a council spokesperson said.

“This is a reassuring outcome for our current clients and ageing population as these providers can offer a range of services from entry level to high level complex care as peo-

ple’s needs change.”

Each individual’s aged care package determines the type of service they receive, particularly for the meals.

Yarra Glen resident Noel Buchanon aired his worries with the Star Mail in October last year when the decision was made.

“Most human beings, men and women, as they age do begin to experience a preference for the familiar,” he said at the time.

“When you hear in a two page letter that this is all changing, I suggest, many older people begin to worry.”

Mr Buchanon told Star Mail recently that “people received letters saying they wouldn’t be getting meals from 1 March” and others were “scared to say anything in case their aged care package would be altered”.

Having sparked quite the friendship with his delivery driver, Mr Buchanon said he was told some recipients would start getting Lite n’ Easy meals instead which would be delivered in a box.

“It leaves out the welfare check. There needs to be a procedure to provide assistance,” he said.

The volunteer also raised concerns about the potential lack of communication between the volunteer and recipient under a new provider.

“It’s not just a meal, it’s a welfare check,” they said.

“They get to see someone for a chat and it’s really sad to think that may not happen anymore.”

The council spokesperson said Benatas delivery drivers would be trained to ensure social connection and contact with the re-

cipient is made to offer that welfare check.

“Benetas manages meals services for many older people across Victoria offering a Lite n’ Easy range of meals nutritionally created for older Australians,” they said.

“This model has received high praise and reflects the increasing demand from older people for this service due to the wide range that is offered and the convenience.

“Benetas’ meals service is an adaptation of the meals-on-wheels model and continues to offer the three core principles of a mealson-wheels model: a nutritious meal suitable for older people, social connection and welfare checks.

“Social contact calls from volunteers will take place at least weekly to ensure two opportunities per week for welfare checks and social interaction.”

More than that, the volunteer said it was the logistics of Lite n’ Easy that may not be suitable to individuals given their fridge space or ability to order meals, as they would “sometimes sit and order the meals” for their client.

Having chosen to volunteer because of their own“life threatening experience” which made them“want to give back”, the volunteer said they loved their volunteering but was unsure what it would look like come July.

Yarra Ranges Council confirmed each of the new service providers across transport, meals and social support would have volunteering opportunities available.

As for transport, the council said clients would receive letters in the coming weeks to confirm their new provider from July.

YarraRangesCouncil’stransport,mealsand socialsupportgroupservicewillfinishon30 June. Picture:PIXABY

RECONCILIATION WEEK

Coming together for reconciliation

By Tanya Steele

The Cardinia and Yarra Ranges community came together recently in Emerald to share and learn about First Nations culture, with the theme ‘Now, More Than Ever’ for 2024.

National Reconciliation Week from 27 May to 3 June was marked by the youth, community and representatives from Cardinia Shire and Yarra Ranges Council on Tuesday, 28 May at Worrell Reserve, Emerald.

Primary and pre-primary school students from Emerald, Selby, Gembrook and Kallista came to perform on the day and artist Emmy Webbers launched a new exhibition at the Hills Hub.

Local Patch resident and Djirri Djirri dancer and proud Wurundjeri, Djadjawurrung and Ngurai Illum-Wurrung woman Stacie Piper opened the ceremony with a Welcome to Country along with her cousin Mikayla.

“Wominjenka - it’s been a pleasure to welcome you all,” she said.

Ms Piper spoke the traditional Welcome to Country in Woi Wurrung language and the children in the audience picked out some of the words they knew - Birrarung (Yarra River) Wah (crow) and Bunjil (eagle).

“It’s incredible to see the work being done with the next generation - these are our future leaders right here,” she said.

“When it comes to reconciliation – I feel like the work is really being done in these spaces and bringing the next generation through.”

The ceremony was mc’ed by Nadia Douglas a Proud Yamatji/Awabakal Woman who is the community-strengthening facilitator of Aboriginal engagement at Cardinia Shire.

“I grew up with community and mob from as far north as Bundjalung,” she said.

Both Mayors addressed the crowd and Cardinia Shire Mayor Jack Kowarzik said it’s not often two different councils get together to celebrate at share at events.

“Together, we’re here to reflect on this country’s shared history to celebrate Indigenous culture and look towards a more inclusive future. It’s a time for all Australians to learn how we can contribute to achieving that reconciliation,” he said.

“Our community thrives when we build bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.”

Yarra Ranges Major Sophie Todorov said it was important to listen to Indigenous voices, especially after the recent referendum.

“There was a lot of disappointment about that – Yarra Ranges Council supports the notion of the Voice,” she said.

“We share a very high population of indig-

enous community members in theYarra Ranges and we ensure that we’re always working with them and hearing their voices about how we move forward together to care for this country.”

Both Mayors acknowledged the honour of being at the event and said that it was positive to see kids learning about Indigenous history in school.

“It’s really cool to see that change and to see things getting better for generations as we move forward,” Mayor Kowarzik said.

“We need to work together to achieve great outcomes for our future generations and be grateful and acknowledge the Indigenous history of these lands. We’ve got a lot of things to still tackle,” Mayor Todorov said.

Students recited some words they put together on reconciliation - some schools reading and others reciting and singing to the crowd.

“We recognize that the true reconciliation is a journey that requires understanding and respect – it is a journey that asks us to face uncomfortable truths, to listen with open hearts

and to commit to meaningful action,” a Selby Primary School student read.

“It is very important to respect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people because they were on this land first and we stole it from them without asking permission,” read a student from Emerald Primary School.

Artist and Proud Gunai/Kurnai person Emmy Webbers (also known as Wurruck Yambo) invited attendees to witness their new exhibition ‘Dancing through Echoes’ which will be will be showing from Friday 24 May to Friday 12 July during Reconciliation Week until the end of NAIDOC Week.

Children and community got the chance to participate in colouring, early style weaving, gumnut and leave decorating activities along with the art exhibit upstairs.

Ms Piper said on the day that for her reconciliation is an ongoing conversation and it’s an important one.

“We just need you to walk with us on this journey and help us wake up our practices help us wake up our language, and maybe sing and dance with us more as well,” she said.

Sanctuary proud to celebrate First Nations

By Dongyun Kwon

Healesville Sanctuary showed off its statewide recognised Indigenous cultural event once more to celebrate National Reconciliation Week over the weekend from 1 and 2 June.

Healesville Sanctuary won the Gold Award twice in a row at theVictorian Tourism Awards, for its dedication to connecting Wurundjeri Country and Culture with its beautiful bushland setting with Indigenous plants over the last two years.

Healesville Sanctuary director Ross Williamson said Healesville Sanctuary is committed to learning, reflecting on and embracing Indigenous Culture.

“This is a space that we are continuing to develop into the future,” he said.

“This aligns with Zoos Victoria’s core values which include the commitment to inclusivity of all people, and to the empathy, respect and care for all humans and wildlife.

“We are pleased to be recognised in theVictorian Tourism Awards for the Sanctuary’s cul-

tural experiences and we would like to see this area grow.”

Wurundjeri Elder Murrundindi came to Healesville Sanctuary to conduct aWelcome to Country ceremony at 2.30pm both on Saturday and Sunday on the Koala Picnic Lawns at Healesville Sanctuary.

Time to unite

By Dongyun Kwon

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is from 27 May to 3 June every year, like other parts of Australia, many events are going on acrossYarra Ranges to celebrate this special week.

Reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and nonIndigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians.

It began as aWeek of Prayer for Reconciliation in 1993, supported by Australia’s major religious groups. Three years later, it evolved into National Reconciliation Week under the guidance of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation, now known as Reconciliation Australia.

ReconciliationVictoria chief executive officer Nicole Findlay said the week is bookended by significant dates for First Peoples.

“27 May marks the anniversary of the 1967 referendum and 3 June marks the High Court Mabo Decision,” she said.

“This year’s theme is Now More Than Ever and is a reminder to all of us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people must continue.

“Reconciliation Victoria has been celebrating this week since we started in 2002.”

The day before NRW, 26 May, is National Sorry Day, which was first held in Sydney in 1998 and is now commemorated nationally to remember and honour the Stolen Generations. Ms Findlay said Reconciliation Victoria loves to see events all across the state and encourages allVictorians to get involved in this week.

“We work closely with 79 local councils and over 27 local reconciliation groups statewide and enjoy seeing them celebrate reconciliation. When possible, we attend as many events as possible from Halls Gap to Gippsland and beyond,” she said.

“The reconciliation movement is strong, now more than ever. We know that 6.2 million people voted Yes in the referendum last year and we have seen a 30 per cent increase in organisations across Australia committing to meaningful reconciliation through Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs).

“In Victoria, we host the second highest amount of RAP organisations in Australia, and we are home to the largest network of local reconciliation groups in any state. Since the referendum, the spirit of reconciliation has not dampened in Victoria, and as the peak body for reconciliation in Victoria, we are both excited and encouraged by the spike in interest we are seeing in reconciliation.”

Reconciliation Victoria encourages all Victorians to consider the importance of reconciliation, not just now, but all year round.

“We encourage all Victorians to think about how you will collaborate, educate, and activate others, to support reconciliation progress,” the CEO said.

“I’m hopeful for the future. I’ve been sharing my culture with younger generations for years and I hope this will continue. I welcome more interest from peoples of all walks of life, so we can listen, learn and love Indigenous history,” he said.

“All cultures should come together for reconciliation and every day should be treated as a chance for reconciliation. I believe in peace, harmony and respect.”

MrWilliamson said Healesville Sanctuary is continuing to engage and increase meaningful partnerships with First Peoples to support work that is done for Country.

“While Healesville Sanctuary is celebrating its 90th anniversary of opening, it is the 100th anniversary of the forced closure of the Coranderrk Aboriginal Station,” he said.

“We know that the Sanctuary is a special place for Wurundjeri and other First Peoples that were forcibly moved to this Country, and we try to make it as open to First Peoples as we can.”

“Reconciliationmeansdifferentthings to all of us, but at its core, it is about recognition, justice, and healing for and with First Peoples. When we deepen our understanding of this, we can appreciate how much work we still need to do.”

As part of the celebration, the Victorian Aboriginal Remembrance Service was taken at the Shrine of Remembrance on Friday 31 May.

Reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and nonIndigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians.

Wurundjeri Elder Murrundindi playing the didgeridoo while wearing his possum skin coat.

Picture: ZOOS VICTORIA

Picture: ON FILE

Hamish, Maitreya and Bodhi from Gembrook Pre-School with their banner. Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

The crowd enjoyed performances and reflections on reconciliation.

Welcome to Country by Stacie Piper and Mikayla George.

Jenineexplainedhercultureaswellasansweredallquestionsthat participantsaskedtoher.

Weaving cultural unity

By Dongyun Kwon

Tarrawarra Museum of Art (TMA) held a weaving workshop to celebrate the National Reconciliation Week (NRW).

Workshop facilitator Jenine GodwinThompson, a Yaggerah Aboriginal artist, taught Aboriginal ways of wild weaving skills while having a yarn with local ladies.

The artist said the technique that she taught at the workshop is a form of art that has been handed down through different people’s lives.

“It’s a chance typically for women to gather around and have a yarn,” Jenine said.

“Basically using a blanket stitch, weaving a pattern or a circle with raffia and then if chosen, they could put some emu feathers on it.

“Now it can either go into their own little emu nesting display or hanging, or they can use it as a pair of earrings, necklace or anything.”

In her artwork Emu Nesting, feathers depict the father emu holding the community, and different colours and sizes of the circles in the middle symbolise baby emus and eggs, the community.

The Aboriginal artist said NRW has a lot of meaning to the First Nations community.

“It’s about both of us [Indigenous and nonIndigenous Australians] walking the paths together by learning from each other,” Jenine said.

“It’s a great opportunity to ask any cultural questions where they can feel safe to ask because it can be scary and intimidating for people to insult or make mistakes [when they ask cultural questions.]

“But, my thought is it’s better to ask than not know.”

TMA has collaborated with many First Nations artists.

TMA learning and engagement manager Sarah Metzner said the workshop went wonderfully.

“It’s great to have Jenine teaching us her interpretation of weaving. Jenine, very generously, has talked to us a lot and answered lots

of our questions around reconciliation and some confusions we had,” she said.

“It’s an authentic way of learning more about ways of respecting First Nations peoples and their cultures.”

The workshop was hosted from 2pm to 4pm on Wednesday 29 May.

A pair of sisters, Heidi and Vicki, found out about the workshop through the Healesville Noticeboard Facebook page.

Vicki said the workshop was an enriching and inspiring way to spend an afternoon.

“For me, it’s important to do something in NRW, either connecting with our local First

Nations community or having some consciousness around it,” she said.

“This [the workshop] was a different way than what I’ve done before. Doing some craft and learning weaving as opposed to going to a lecture.

“We learnt a lot from Jenine. She shared a lot about First Nations culture and how to communicate respectfully, so it was learning about weaving but also learning about reconciliation. It was also relaxing and fun as well.”

Heidi said celebrating NRW with diverse activities is valuable.

“There was an element of education but

there was also an element of relationship building strengthening those connections that we have,” she said.

“[It is important] because understanding comes through those relationships.”

Sarah said sharing culture is a great place for processes of reconciliation.

“Art and culture is a great way for all different communities to find some common grounds and sharing,” she said.

““From sharing art and culture, a generosity is also shared which enables people to be more tolerant and to understand each other a lot more.”

First Nations circus team heading for Healesville

By Dongyun Kwon

National ReconciliationWeek (NRW) inYarra Ranges will culminate with a special event in Healesville.

The event Now More Than Ever, which is named after the theme of this year’s NRW will be held at The Memo on Wednesday 5 June.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Sophie Todorov said she is looking forward to YRC’s annual Reconciliation Week Event.

“This event is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and rights for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; a reminder that we want to achieve better outcomes for First Nations people; a call to action that we need to prioritise connection, respect, action and change,” she said.

“We’ll have talented and renowned performers, presenters and groups at this event, which community can attend in person (subject to free ticket availability), or watch the livestream on the Council website during or

after the event.

“Our Reconciliation Week events have received significant and positive feedback from

the community in previous years, and we believe this year will be no different. I encourage everyone in the community to take the time and attend or watch.”

Two programs are lined up for the event; an invigorating and moving performance by Na Djinang Circus (NDC) and a musical performance by Bumpy.

NDC is a Melbourne-based contemporary circus company working with diverse young artists to share unique insight with the next generation’s hands and feet.

NDC artistic custodian Harley Mann, who is a Wakka Wakka man, said the team would perform a show called Arterial in Healesville for the first time.

“It is a contemporary circus show that explores the connection that First Nations people have with each other; the land, history and stories,” he said.

“There is not a lot of contemporary circus or even traditional circus that explores the experiences of Aboriginal people, so this

work is an all First Nations’ work that taps into the lived experiences and stories of our people.

“It means that the way stories are held together (the shapes, physicalities and the circus skills) has a quality and aesthetic that is related to our culture.”

Mr Mann said the outcomes of the referendum have been quite divisive and painful for a lot of people.

“I think, now more than ever, Reconciliation Week and the work associated with reconciliation, acknowledging and recognising the voice of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is essential,” he said.

“What is important about doing it in the ways of art and telling stories is showing that it is not a political debate but is inviting, collaborative and community oriented.”

The event is free but booking is essential at the following website, yarraranges.sales. ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/134031

Groupphotoofparticipants,Sarah(fourthfromleft)andJenine(fifthfromleft).

Pictures:DONGYUNKWON

Vicki(left)andHeidi.

Jenine(left)andSarah.

Club to host world event

By Dongyun Kwon

The Melbourne Gun Club, based in Yering, (MGC) has been successful in its application to hold the FITASC Universal Trench World Championships in 2026.

Australia has sent a team to this competition every year since 2014 except for the Covid years.

MGC vice president and former Olympian Craig Henwood said MGC is excited to host it for the first time in the Southern Hemisphere.

“It’ll be massive not only for MGC but also for the Yarra Valley, Lilydale in particular,” he said.

“We’ll be showcasing our club and the area to the world.”

MGC was recommended by Sporting Clays Australia to hold the event for its success in previous experience.

MGC has held two big shooting competitions, the International Shooting Union Championships in 1973 and the Commonwealth Games in 2006.

Henwood said the club needs the community’s support to fulfil the requirements to have the event.

“The requirement is to have a minimum of four layouts and our club currently has three,” he said.

“We’re in the process of trying to find ways to get the fourth layout.

“We’re taking some donations, we’ll be running some fundraisers and raffles, and trying to secure grants.”

It will see a field of 312 competitors from countries such as Italy, France, Spain, the UK,

Portugal, the Czech Republic, South Africa and New Zealand.

The former Olympian is willing to participate in the competition that is going to take place at his home ground.

“If I’m too busy working at the club, I probably won’t [participate in it],” Henwood said.

“Hopefully, all things go well and I’ll be able to compete as well.”

The club has been used as a training camp for the national team for the 2024 ISSF World Cup in Lotano, Italy.

Catherine Skinner, a 2016 Rio Olympic gold medalist, is also a member of the team and is training with her team at MGC.

She said MGC is one of the best clubs in Australia.

“There’s always a quality thing where Melbourne just trumps all the other clubs. The committee and the staff have always been friendly and accommodating,” Skinner said.

“So, it always makes things a lot easier because they’ve got all the facilities with four or five different styles.”

Skinner said it’d be fantastic to have an international competition in Melbourne.

“It gives the rest of the world a bit of reality because we always have to travel so far for all of their competitions. So, now, they get to feel what it’s like to be an Aussie,” she said.

“They’re going to discover it’s a lot harder to win here than they really expect.”

To support MGC’s fourth layout project, please visit the following website, asf.org.au/ projects/melbourne-gun-club/2026-worldut-upgrades-fundraiser

Trapmachine.

Picture:DONGYUNKWON

CraigHenwood. Picture:ONFILE Layout.

Picture:DONGYUNKWON

What a top-shelf result

By Callum Ludwig

Upper Yarra Secondary College’s (UYSC) practical project to offer an educational experience in the viticulture industry has borne fruit, with the school’s own wine hitting the shelves.

Being stocked at BWS and Dan Murphy’s, the Junction Street Vineyard & Co Pinot Noir comes from the school’s on-site vineyard with the help of Oakridge Wines.

UYSC Principal Scott Tully said when it started it was all about what opportunities the school could create for the students.

“To see their hard work now in a store and to see it come to that end product, it’s just really amazing,” he said.

“We wanted to provide meaningful work for kids in the community, there’s not a lot of industry left out in the Valley but the wine industry is still a really important part.

“We just wanted to make sure that we were leading to pathways where our students could live and work where they were born and raised and not have to travel for work.”

Students completing the VET Certificate Two in Wine Industry Operations in Year 10 tend to the vineyard throughout the year before students from all year levels are welcomed to pick grapes on the annual Harvest Day, held whenever VET Specialist teacher Marcus Cook gets the go-ahead for picking, usually at short notice.

Mr Cook said the release has created an enormous sense of pride for the school community.

“Speaking to the students this morning, they were just so excited that we’ve got a product that they’ve helped pick, helped with the fermentation and that can be sold in a store,” he said.

“The learning is authentic and it just can hit so many avenues, there’s all the viticulture that we learn, there are parts of fermentation

and then there’s a whole other world of marketing and labelling, which were driven by the students.

“I think it allows students to think big, have big dreams and goals and say ‘Why can’t I do that? Why couldn’t I run something like that or start a business?’ and supports them to have bigger and bigger futures.”

Students created the labels on the bottles using Canva and also had the chance to view and learn more about the fermentation process through a partnership with Oakridge Wines and their Vineyard Manager Steve Faulkner.

The first harvest in 2021 resulted in about four tonnes of grapes, followed by a tougher year in 2022 with between two and three tonnes, bouncing back to four and a half tonnes in 2023 and three tonnes in this year’s harvest on Wednesday 21 February.

Mr Tully said it’s getting to the point where

New parking signage installed in Warburton

Amid a wave of parking changes in Warburton, there will be new restrictions on existing parking in the town.

New parking restriction signage will be installed in Warburton following the recent community engagement around parking in the township.

The engagement took place after feedback from community members and local businesses that the parking situation in Warburton was worsening, particularly on weekends and public holidays.

As a result of the feedback, the below changes will be made to meet current needs, enhance traffic flow and free up parking spaces within the town for residents and visitors:

Thomas Avenue

Previously unrestricted parking will now be four-hour parking Monday-Friday, 9am5pm, and two-hour parking on weekends and public holidays, 9am-5pm.

Warburton Arts Centre

Previously unrestricted parking will now be three-hour parking 9am-5pm with two new accessible parking spaces added.

Warburton Highway

Previously restrictions were two-hour parking 8.30am-4pm Mon-Fri and 9.30am-

12pm Sat, will now be four-hour parking 9am-5pm Mon-Fri and two-hour parking 9am-5pm on weekends and public holidays.

Two extra 30-minute parking spaces have been included bringing a total of five short term spaces (one near the post office, two near Woody’s Charcoal Chicken and two near Warburton Bakery) All 30-minute restrictions will apply from 9am-5pm every day of the week.

Removal of the one-hour restriction along the Northern side of the highway. Extended the bus zone.

Warburton Highway Loading Zone

Previously Loading Zone restrictions were two-hour parking (8.30am-4pm Mon-Fri and 9.30am-12pm Sat), will now be a Loading Zone 9am-5pm Mon-Fri, and two-hour parking 9am-5pm weekends and public holidays.

Station Road

Current restrictions in parking are fourhour parking 8am-4pm (12 spaces) and four-hour parking 9am-5pm (12 spaces), will now be simplified so all 24 spaces are four-hour parking, 9am-5pm.

Formalised signage for no-stopping zone and bus parking.

the program is self-sustaining.

“You start to worry a little bit less about the program and you know they’re getting highquality tuition through Marcus so it’s just going really well,” he said.

“I was a little bit naive to it in the beginning but the industry is really broad, we haven’t had a kid turn out to be a winemaker yet but kids that are working anywhere from front of house to vineyard maintenance to marketing, all of these things are associated with the industry even if they don’t end up working for a winery or as a winemaker, the exposure they’re getting through that course is leading to jobs.”

UYSC representatives were set to hold tastings at BWS inYarra Junction on Friday 31 May and at Dan Murphy’s in Chirnside Park on Saturday 1 June.

Mr Tully said the vineyard is a really great metaphor for students to see how when you

work hard now, you can see the fruits of your labour later.

“It’s really nice that some of the kids that involved at the moment might still be in school when their product is released,” he said.

“One of the things we hoped when putting the vineyard in was to show them that it’s important to take risks and also work they put in now might not get realised for eight months to two years, which is a good metaphor for school and work in general.”

The wine will be available for purchase at the Chirnside Park and Yarra Junction BWS as well as Dan Murphy’s stores in Chirnside Park, Boronia, Ringwood, South Morang, Bulleen, Eltham, Doncaster East, Fishermans Bend, Brighton, Ascot Vale, Hawthorn East, Alphington, Malvern East, Prahran, Richmond, South Melbourne, Kew, Malvern, Camberwell, Brunswick East, Prahran Cellar, Collingwood, Spotswood and Balwyn.

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• Have a Current Driver’s licence and reliable vehicle.

This

Your

To apply please send resume and cover letter to tracey.aitken@starnewsgroup.com.au or contact 5957 3700

New parking signage, including on Thomas Avenue, has set new parking restrictions in Warburton. Picture: ON FILE

The bare vines at Upper Yarra Secondary College have been poured into the newly-released Junction Street Vineyard Pinot Noir.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG L-R: Alex and Tom with a haul of grapes from the vineyard this year. Picture: FILE

MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Leading the way in NDIS

cated client team, our meticulous scheduling team, and our innovative support coordination team.

Together, they ensure that every client receives personalised, cutting-edge care that addresses their unique needs and goals.

The challenges of being a registered NDIS provider are substantial. With only 50 per cent of providers managing to stay afloat, many are struggling to navigate the intricate regulatory environment and financial pressures. However, Recovery Options is poised to remain a leading force, thanks to our unwavering focus on client-centred service and our strategic, adaptable approach.

Our client team is the heart of Recovery Options, working tirelessly to build meaningful relationships and deliver exceptional sup-

port. They are backed by our scheduling team, which ensures that every appointment and service is seamlessly coordinated to maximise efficiency and client satisfaction. Our support coordination team, meanwhile, excels in connecting clients with the best resources and services available, ensuring they receive comprehensive and continuous care.

As other companies close their doors, Recovery Options invites all clients and prospective employees to join us during this transition. We are committed to providing a stable,

supportive environment where both clients and staff can thrive.

Whether you’re seeking unparalleled NDIS services or a rewarding career, Recovery Options is your destination. Call us today at 5900 6898 to schedule a free one-hour consultation. Visit our website at www.recoveryoptions. com.au to learn more about our services, get to know our team, and explore career opportunities. Together, let’s build a future where everyone has access to the quality care they deserve.

Cutting-edge care at Recovery Options.

Picture: SUPPLIED

The team works tirelessly to build meaningful relationships with their clients.

MEDICALLY SPEAKING

More suport for

Wandin North TerryWhite Chemmart is thrilled to announce that our pharmacy is expanding its capacity to provide Opioid Replacement Therapy (ORT) services to more individuals in need.

ORT, also referred to as pharmacotherapy, stands as a beacon of hope for those grappling with opioid use disorder (OUD), offering a path towards recovery and renewed well-being.

Our controlled provision of medications like methadone and buprenorphine targets key goals: easing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, reducing harm associated with opioid use, aiding stabilisation, and rehabilitation, and promoting community integration by destigmatising addiction.

ORT offers a safer path for those battling opioid use disorder, supporting long-term recovery and wellness through comprehensive medical and psychosocial care.

We’re dedicated to providing evidencebased treatment, fostering a culture of acceptance, and ensuring individuals have the chance to rebuild their lives without judgment or discrimination.

At our pharmacy, we understand the pro-

found impact of addiction on individuals and their loved ones.

That’s why we are committed to offering ORT as a free-of-charge service to those who require it. Access to treatment should never be hindered by financial barriers.

The process to begin ORT is simple: individuals need only obtain a prescription from their healthcare provider, and we take care of the rest.

Our compassionate team will work closely with each patient to ensure they receive the support and guidance they need throughout their treatment journey.

Importantly, ORT program operates within the framework of each patient’s entitlements, meaning that the only cost incurred is that of the prescription itself, in accordance with their entitlements.

Expanding our ORT program allows us to reach more individuals in need and reaffirms our commitment to supporting the health and well-being of our community.Together, let us continue to break down barriers to treatment and offer hope and healing to those affected by opioid addiction.

team at Wandin North’s TerryWhite Chemmart, Nabih, Meryl, Wendy, Emma, Kiah and Ellie.

TerryWhite Chemmart Wandin North is improving access to Opioid Replacement Therapy in the community. Pictures: SUPPLIED

103 candles for Dorothy

By Dongyun Kwon

Healesville resident Dorothy Hall celebrated her 103rd birthday on Thursday 30 May.

Healesville has been a new home for Ms Hall, who grew up in North Melbourne, since 1992.

She currently resides at Holmwood Aged Care in Healesville, and had a special afternoon tea celebration on Wednesday 29 May and a birthday party on Sunday 2 June.

Her daughter Margot Jones said her mum loves the Yarra Valley.

“I moved up here first and mum moved

here because I was here,” she said.

“She used to look after her grandchildren [in Healesville] because I was working full time. That would’ve been in her 80s.”

Ms Hall is a big supporter of the North Melbourne Football Club.

She and her daughter used to go to support Kangaroos, even to Tassie, sometimes.

Ms Jones said her mum is a good supporter of her two children.

“Dad was a heavy drinker and not supportive,” she said.

“Mum fended for us almost by herself. I’m so proud of her for that.”

Dorothy Hall (middle) with her daughter Margot Jones (left),her grandchildren Kurtis (behind) and Emmie (right).

Picture: DONGYUN KWON

Dorothy Hall’s wedding photo with her husband Ronald. Picture: SUPPLIED

Dorothy Hall. Picture: SUPPLIED

L-R:CallumKerr,DavidCloke,TerryDaniher,LachyPittman,PeterBradbury,DenisBanksandColinWilliams. 410512

Pictures:STEWARTCHAMBERS

LachyPitmanwiththelimitedDaniherprint. 410512

On the course for a cause

By Callum Ludwig

Warburton resident Lachie Pitman is no stranger to supporting the Variety Children’s Charity, but his latest fundraiser extended the support to a second cause.

On Thursday 30 May, a few special guests from the halls of AFL history took to the Warburton Golf Club course to raise money for not only the Variety Children’s Charity but also FightMND.

Mr Pitman said he’s done 20 Variety Bashes as of this year but this year he will also do the Daniher Drive.

“Terry Daniher is a good mate, so we’ve got a couple of things here we’re auctioning off for MND, so it’s a double whammy today,” he said.

“You’re lucky if you have good health, I was a banker in an old life and my old boss said you only go as far as your health takes you, he was 50 and had a heart attack the next day so I remembered to never forget that.”

AFL Hall of Famer Terry Daniher, brother of fellow AFL footballer and the founder and copatron of FightMND Neale Daniher AO, took part in the golf day, also joined by ex-Tiger and Magpie David Cloke, ex-Magpie Denis Banks and ex-Magpie and Bomber Peter Bradbury.

Mr Daniher said it’s been fantastic from the foundation’s point of view to see local events in support popping up.

“The football and netball clubs have been terrific in a lot of the country areas and even suburban areas and the amount of trouble

they go to, as Neale’s always quoted, ‘It’s all about having a bit of fun in fundraising’,” he said.

“It’s an incurable disease at the moment, we’re trying to knock it on the head and we’re not going to be able to do it with just the support from all the city people, but all the country folk and the financial support of the bigger sponsors.”

The Variety Children’s Charity provides grants and scholarships or hosts programs and events to support children living with illness, disability or facing other disadvantages, having given over $2 billion in value since its inception.

Following Neale Daniher being diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in 2013, he founded FightMND, the annual Big Freeze at the G’ event and later the Daniher Drive to help raise awareness and fund research into finding effective treatments and a cure for the debilitating disease. Mr Pitman said he knows a couple of other friends who were diagnosed with MND and died 20 to 30 years ago as well.

“It’s a terrible disease to get and Neale Daniher has been an unbelievable advocate for MND, he’s put it on the map,” he said.

“I’m auctioning off a print signed by the four Daniher brothers for this and also another one at the event in Emerald in a few days as well but back when they all signed this print,

they didn’t want any money to sign it,”

“Whereas many sportsmen want 50 bucks or 20 bucks for a signature, the four Danihers gave their time, signed it willingly, and all the family pitched in many hours for no remuneration at all which always impressed me.”

A ‘Hills MND Big Freeze’ on Sunday 2 June at the Paradise Valley Hotel has also attracted support from both the local community and AFL names, with North Melbourne’s Jaidyn Stephenson and Hawthorn’s Dylan Moore set to slide while Carlton’s Harry McKay and Essendon’s Ben McKay have each supplied guernseys signed by their respective teams to be auctioned.

Mr Daniher said a lot of people behind the scenes continue to put a lot of effort into the cause, including Neale himself, his daughter Becky, his wife Jan and the Melbourne Football Club, creating a solid foundation to keep growing.

“Through the broadcasting, you hear a lot of the stories about young people and the old ones, because MND can get anyone, so I think Neale will be sitting back pretty happy with the way that it’s all come about,” he said.

“But he realises there’s still a lot of work to be done, he’s got to continue to be inventive, trying new ways and trying to keep the foundation going and he’s going to keep chipping away at it until we can find a cure.”

Successful season for Healesville Bowling Club

By Dongyun Kwon

Healesville Bowling Club (HBC) officially wrapped up the season on Sunday 26 May.

HBC decided on a new committee board for the next season and awarded trophies to its members who made great achievements throughout the season at the annual general meeting.

The club had a remarkable season winning two premierships.

HBC media director Ian Milgate said the great achievements would not have been possible without the help of volunteers and the support from the community.

“Many volunteers worked tirelessly for the club including members of the board, the executive, team selectors, bar staff, ground staff, team managers, bus drivers, function volunteers, members looking after the gardens and the corporate bowls challenge volunteers,” he said.

“I’d also like to thank the many sponsors that support us throughout the year.

“Our beautiful Healesville community has supported us by using our facilities for numerous functions including weddings, 21st birthdays, engagements and many other important occasions.”

The members of the committee board for the next season were confirmed at the meeting.

John Fitzpatrick remains in his position as president.

Robyn Turville has been appointed as vice president and Judy Veermann as secretary.

Robert Ayres and Leonie Fitzpatrick remain in their position as chairperson and finance director respectively.

The meeting culminated with an awards

ceremony; Club Championship Winners Award, Ron Patterson Memorial Trophy, Bus Drivers Award, Veteran’s Badges and Team Managers Award.

“Ron Patterson Memorial Trophy was for a gentleman who was a long-time member, won many championships and passed away last year, and his family suggested that they would provide us with some money for a trophy,” Mr Milgate said.

“Each week, all the players voted on who was the best player on the day in the pennant team.

“Those votes were counted up and there were winners for the Tuesday pennant and the Saturday pennant.”

Ron Patterson MemorialTrophy was given to Steve Bulled for the Tuesday pennant and Steve Graham for the Saturday pennant.

The Bus Drivers Award went to Effie Laban, Len Cossons and Robert Ayres who volunteered to drive players to away games.

“There’s a new life member this year Gerry Gommers received life membership,” Mr Milgate said.

The club’s first team will be promoted to Division 3 and the second team will remain in Division 8 in the next season.

Club Championship Winners

· Runner up Men’s Club Championship: Effie Laban

· Winner Men’s Club Championship: Colin Lowe

· Runner up Women’s Club Championship: Leonie Fitzpatrick

· Winner Women’s club Championship: Hilda Gurney

· Runner up Women’s Club Championship

Pairs: Hilda Gurney and Jodie Ward

· Winners Women’s Club Championships Pairs: Judy Veermann and Leonie Fitzpatrick

· Runners up Men’s Club Championship Pairs: Colin Jarvis and Mark Cookney

· Winners Men’s Club Championship Pairs: Mark Ward and Adrian Beales

· Runner up Handicap mixed singles: Rob Broadhurst

· Winner Handicap mixed singles: Colin Jarvis

· Runner up Handicap Pairs: Rob Broadhurst and Judy Veermann

· Winner Handicap Pairs: Effie Laban, Leonie Fitzpatrick, Sub-Robyn Turville Minor Championships

· Singles Runner up: Mark Cookney

· Singles Winner: Colin Jarvis

· Best First Year Player: Sarah Gallacher

· Most Improved Player: Colin Jarvis

· Life Member: Gerry Gommers

Ron Patterson Memorial Trophy

Saturday’s Trophy Winners

· Third: Gerda Otto

· Second: Mark Ward

· Winner: Steve Graham

· Tuesday’s Trophy Winners

· Third: Colin Jarvis

· Second: Effie Laban

· Winner: Steve Bulled

· Bus drivers Award: Effie Laban, Len Cossons and Robert Ayres

· Veteran’s Badges: Chris Boland and Steve Graham

· Team Managers Award: Steve Bulled and Anne Holland

Terry Daniher on the green at the Warburton Golf Club. 410512

The 19th century pioneers went in for large families. Even with the high infant mortality of the time, a mother might still rear a dozen to adulthood. With marriages between neighbours common, an entire district could be inter-related within a generation or two.

Mighty matriarchs Looking back

The Clegg, Taffs, Sies, Herbert, McKillop, Birtles, Parr, Overton, Green, Axford, Collier, Ratcliffe, Rexter, Tegart, Turner and Sellick families of Wandin/ Silvan/ Mt Evelyn/ Lilydale/Montrose/ Croydon were all related by marriage.

Ann Clegg, one of the pioneers of Wandin from the 1860s, had 13 children and raised 11.

When she died at the Hotham Benevolent Asylum in 1906, aged 85, her death certificate stated only ‘widow, two sons and two daughters, other particulars not known’. Presumably there was not one descendant present to provide details.

The Parrs settled in the Shire of Lillydale in the mid-1870s. Jane Parr nee Axford bore 16 children, raising 12. Jane’s eldest daughter Elizabeth married Ann Clegg’s son Joseph. After

Atlas (Shrugs) OPINION

Atlas

Starring Jennifer Lopez, Simu Liu and Gregory James Cohan

Rated M 3.25/5

Atlas is an unfocused but enjoyable sci-fi throwback starring Jennifer Lopez as Atlas, an analyst who must bond with her AI companion Smith (Gregory James Cohan) as she hunts the renegade AI Harlan (Simu Liu) on a distant planet.

While the plot is a generic pastiche of The Terminator, Aliens and Avatar, the film has some poignant and witty exchanges and a committed lead performance from Lopez, and Smith develops an endearing smartaleck persona as he bonds with Atlas.

The action sequences overall feel like impersonal video game cut-scenes, but still have several cool moments, and the film ends with an over-the-top but exciting combination of mech gunplay and android swordplay in a lava flow.

The process of Atlas syncing with Smith is a decent framing device for revealing Atlas’s backstory, but the film still heavily relies on blunt exposition, with an illogical, ridiculously extreme motivation for the AI villain Harlan.

The visuals are stunning, but the enemies are some of the most uninspired AI characters in a long time; AI or androids can look humanoid, which may make them sympathetic (Ash from Aliens) or deceptive (take your pick of Terminators), but Atlas’s AI look and behave too much like regular people to stand out.

Atlas awkwardly juggles pathos and laughs, and despite Atlas’s rough-andtumble journey and Harlan’s genocidal goals, much of the film progresses with a strange lack of urgency.

The film’s message of learning to trust “good AI” also feels naïve when AI is such an ethical minefield today.

Insubstantial but entertaining, Atlas feels like a big-budget version of a silly, scatterbrained ‘90s sci-fi B-movie, which isn’t a bad thing, and is available for streaming on Netflix.

Karen Phillips

Mount Evelyn History Group editor

Elizabeth’s death, Joseph married his widowed sister-in-law, Susannah Green nee Parr. Johanna Sellick, a pioneer of Croydon from the 1870s, had 14 children and raised all but the youngest – 10 daughters and three sons.

Eldest daughters Annie and Margaret married two sons of a Mt Evelyn family, Francis and John Collier. Son Arthur married Dorothy May Turner, a granddaughter of Jane Parr.

The seventh daughter, Rose, died at 19.‘Miss Rose, as she was popularly called … was held

CARTOON

in high esteem by all who had the good fortune to make her acquaintance.’ (Reporter, Box Hill, 29/4/1910).

The bevy of maidens sounds like a Jane Austen novel: ‘Miss Sellick, Miss Margaret Sellick, Miss Edith Sellick … Miss Rose Sellick … .’

Australia’s fertility rate declined in the 20th century, as Margaret Trist wrote in her short story ‘Twenty Strong’ (1946). Della, the only child in a depopulated countryside, is sent off to boarding school. The elderly buggy driver points out the homesteads that once housed large families. ‘Nine kids here, ten kids there, twelve somewhere else … five little girls used to wave to me over the bridge railing.

They used to wear pigtails and pinafores.’ Della arrives at school, fortified by the knowledge. ‘She was twenty strong. The kids everyone should have had, but hadn’t.’

The fertility rate dropped below the replacement rate in the 1980s.

By 2022 it had fallen to 1.63 births per woman.

Exciting entertainments

Burrinja Theatre

Greece Lightening – Garry Stars, Zeus, Fools and Drachmas. One idiots Mythical Quest for Prosperity.

An overzealous idiot attempts to perform all of Greek Mythology in order to save his Hellenic Homeland from economic ruin.

Never before has Medusa been loose, Achilles more sillies or Uranus so heinous.

Having single handedly saved the performing arts in 2018 with his multi-award-winning debut show Garry Star Performs Everything, comic wunderkind Garry returns with another anarchic masterclass not to be mythed.

Season: 7.30pm, Thursday 13 June.

Venue: The Lyre Room.

The Princess theatre

Sunset Boulevard

Opening this review I feel a quote from the program and Fiona Allan CEO and Jo Davies Artistic Director of Opera Australia, “Welcome to 1950s Hollywood, where dreams can be made and broken in a heartbeat. Where silent movie star Norma Desmond longed for a return to the big screen and where a chance encounter with struggling screenwriter Joe Gillis leads to a passionate relationship – and an unforgettable conclusion.”

As Norma Desmond Sarah Brightman who is an International singing star and is the world’s best soprano which she certainly showed in her performance. As Norma Desmond Susan really caught the essence of the character giving an outstanding performance as the fading star. Susan also worked well with her screenwriter Joe Gillis and her butler/chauffer MaxVon Mayerling. Joe Gillis was given an outstanding perfor-

Verse novel bends genre PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

A review of Chinese

by

Chinese Fish, a verse novel by Melbourne-based

Grace

was the winner of the Victorian Prize for Literature and the Prize for Poetry at the 2024 Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards.

While a novel is told through prose, a verse novel combines story with poetry.

Published in June 2023, Chinese Fish tells a multi-generational story of a migrant family in the Land of the Long White Cloud – Aotearoa New Zealand.

Readers are introduced to the Chin family, starting with great-grandfather who arrived in New Zealand to work as a laundryman in 1896 after the gold rush ended.

His son arrived in 1921 but resettled in Hong Kong after the Second World War.

Grandfather and grandmother have five children. Yet, it is the second son’s wife Ping and her daughter Cherry who are the story’s focus. In 1963, Ping, described as having “a face like a BBQ pork bun”, was told by a fortuneteller in Hong Kong that “she would live a life of unimaginable prosperity on the New Gold Mountain at the bottom of the earth”.

But life in New Zealand is not the prosperous paradise she was led to believe it would be.

Like all migrants, she is terribly homesick and has difficulty adapting to the local language, food, lifestyle and work environment.

Adding to Ping’s trouble is her wayward husband: “Stan returns at three am, falls into bed reeking of beer and cigarettes, reaches under Ping’s nightgown, her elbow in his gut, his vomit all over the pink candlewick. every night he / go out come / home two three / clock I can’t sleep / I waiting for him / use the vacuum / cleaner try to SUCK / all the bad thing out”

Kemp’s curtain call

mance by Tim Draxl.

Tim really captured the role as envisaged and worked well with Suan.

The third of the main stars was Robert Grubb as Max Von Mayerling. Robert was the butler, chauffer and devotee of Norma Desmond.

A superior performance, and Robert was perfect in the character.

All three had wonderful voices and as the production is a musical the three rally came over with their great voices. The fourth main star was Ashleigh Rubenach as Joe’s co-writer and possible girlfriend. Ashleigh added to high standard of the production giving a wonderful portrayal of her role.

A great evening of theatre with magnificent sets which moved smoothly and showed each aspect of life n the movie world.

The balance of the cast kept the high standard of the expected performance.

As the performance was so great the audience gave it Melbourne’s highest honour.

A standing ovation.

REMEMBER: The 182 Theatre Centrestage Youth Theatre presents Radium Girls Season: 2 – 15 July. Bookings: 9758 3964

As this quote demonstrates, the verse novel is narrated in multiple voices, with Ping’s words written in italics and often interspersed with Hong Kong written Chinese.

In comparison, the third-person narrative is “laced with archival fragments and scholarly interjections” and often contains passages borrowed and adapted from media reports and opinion pieces of the middle decades of the 20th century, which are printed in grey colour.

Indeed, the book derived from the creative writing component of the author’s PhD on the experience of settler Chinese women in New Zealand, who faced discrimination not just from their own patriarchal family and community, but also from the mainstream society in their adopted country.

In the author’s words: “Because the settler Chinese community’s experience of this word [‘Chinese’] was for so long associated with stigma, the instinct to refrain from making overt displays of ‘Chineseness’ and assimilate into the P?keh? mainstream was strong. The title feels a little treacherous, almost illicit: a talking back that flies in the face of the ‘model minority’ imperatives we were brought up with – be quiet, lie low, know your place – all of which were amplified for women and girls.”

Chinese Fish is an honest and innovative probe into the inner workings of a Chinese family.

Highly recommended.

Fish

Grace Yee

poet

Yee,

NEWS Ngulu teaches, entertains

By Callum Ludwig

The 2024 edition of Yarra Valley ECOSS’ popular Ngulu Festival is set to return on Friday 14 June from 5pm to 9pm.

This year’s event is taking a slightly different angle, combining its usual festival fun with the educational opportunities of a seminar.

Community Engagement, Market and Events Coordinator at Yarra Valley ECOSS Leanne Hall said she thinks it’s really important to keep celebrating culture, bringing community together and learning from the oldest living culture about this rich country and spirit.

“As a non-First Nations-led organisation, we have felt it’s our responsibility as custodians of a site capable of hosting such events, that we do so though it’s becoming increasingly difficult for us to deliver this event, as it’s hard to access funding as a non-first nations organisation,” she said.

“We value paying artists fairly, and offer the event free to First Nations community members so while we are not sure if we can continue to deliver the event in the future, we will always continue to highlight Indigenous performances in all our events.”

Previous editions of the event have featured performances from the likes of Ganga Giri, Uncle Kutcha Edwards, Fred Leone and Carissa Nyalu among others, while Aunty Kim Wandin is also thanked for being a consistent support.

Ms Hall said feedback from the local First Nations community about previous Ngulu’s has been that they have appreciated the opportunity to gather mob together in celebration.

“This year, we have embedded activities that everyone can participate in such as Wayapa Wuurrk, and Aunty Merilyn Duffs storytelling and song,” she said.

“We want to build a strong sense of community within the event, building a rich cul-

tural experience including the Welcome to Country with Aunty Kim Wandin, the dance experience with the Djarlo Dancers, and then the beautiful vocal experience of Claire Garvey and topped off with a high vibe Yidarki dance with world-renowned Palawa man Ganga Giri.

“We also have Proud Bijara woman Nikki Browne MC’ing with special guest Malaya Gulpilil-Monta.”

Tickets for non-First Nations attendees can be purchased at events.humanitix.com/NGULU-FESTIVAL-AND-SEMINAR

Ms Hall said people love the connection experience and the community vibes at Ngulu.

“It’s at a relatively cold time of year, so gathering by the fire with the beautiful stalls selling cultural artworks is a really warm and lovely

way to spend the night as well as the delicious food on offer, the beautiful surroundings and the chance to gather with world-class performers,” she said.

“We would like to thank everyone who has made Ngulu possible and supported over the years, we feel very privileged to have such supportive relationships with our local community.”

CheersTotheShortestLunch

Your favourite winter wine festival is back on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd of June to bring you all handcrafted wine, delicious bites & live music over two days!

Get a taste of the hidden gems of the Valley with a weekend full of wine tasting, live music, delicious bites and stunning scenery across nine participating family-run wineries for the 2024 Shortest Lunch!

It's the perfect way to enjoy a break from winter hibernation with your whole family, best friends, and even your fur babies (with most venues being dog-friendly)!

Adding to the excitement, your Star Mail has 3 double weekend passes to giveaway to readers!

each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

LUXURY LIVING IN AN IDYLLIC, PEACEFUL SETTING

LUXURY FAMILY LIVING IN AN IDYLLIC, PEACEFUL SETTING

EXPERIENCE luxury living at its finest in this meticulously renovated, high-end home, boasting 4 bedrooms and executive finishes throughout.

With every detail carefully curated, this sophisticated family home offers unparalleled comfort, style and perfect lifestyle choice.

Both expansive living zones are bathed in natural light, allowing you to stare out across distant views of Cardinia Reservoir and on a clear day, even the sparkling waters of Port Phillip Bay. Surrounded by a useable half acre garden setting, this quiet street location is the perfect choice for any buyer looking for a lifestyle retreat.

The gourmet kitchen is an absolute showstopper, equipped with Bosch appliances, custom joinery and both an oversized butler’s pantry plus spacious island bench. Adjacent to the kitchen, the elegant dining area provides the ideal setting for family gatherings and is highlighted by bespoke designed cabinetry, purposely built for wine lovers and an excellent talking point for dinner guests.

Retreat to the luxurious master suite, a

sanctuary of serenity complete with walk in robe plus a lavish ensuite featuring a terrazzo soaking tub, glass-enclosed shower area and under floor heating.

Three additional bedrooms offer ample space for family and guests, each thoughtfully designed with comfort and style in mind.

Ducted heating and split system heating/ cooling have been included for convenient temperature control and along with a modern fireplace in the main lounge, allows you to be comfortable and cosy all year round.

Indulge in outdoor living on the expansive decking and whether you are relaxing in the spa, or hosting a barbecue for family and friends, provides you with space and privacy whatever the occasion.

A triple garage, double carport and extra parking, once again shows the meticulous attention to detail this renovated home has been given and exemplifies luxury living at its finest. Only minutes from both the Emerald and Belgrave townships, train station plus many local schools, this family friendly home offers a convenient location and an enticing blend of character, tranquillity and utter luxury. ●

CHARACTER LIVING IN PARK ROAD LOCATION

THIS charming weatherboard home is an ideal choice for weekend getaways or downsizing.

Boasting 2 bedrooms plus a study / 3rd bedroom, it offers flexibility to suit your lifestyle. The open plan kitchen features ample natural light, a spacious gas oven, a cozy wood fire, and ceiling fans throughout for year round comfort.

The main bedroom offers generous storage, while the updated bathroom includes a vanity, shower and toilet. The

character home comes with the comfort of recent renovations including new roof, weatherboards replaced just to name a few of the major improvements.

Outside, the highlight is the deck with cafe blinds and breathtaking mountain views, perfect for relaxation.

With a fully fenced, low maintenance yard and convenient access to the main street, waterpark, Yarra river walk, and all the delights of Warburton, this home offers both comfort and convenience. ●

HOME FOCUS

PRIVATE TRANQUILLITY ON ½ AN ACRE

THE moment you drive down the private concrete circular driveway you realise that this property is unique and very special. Backing onto crown land, the Cockatoo Creek and surrounded by natural Australian flora, suddenly this ½ acre property seems more like 10 acres but without the burden of maintaining acreage. Embrace nature from almost every room or from the decking or courtyard and enjoy the tranquillity and the daily song of the many species of birds that come to visit.

Home Features:

· High vaulted ceilings with exposed trusses in the living room and master bedroom

· Modern kitchen with predominantly drawer cabinetry and an upright gas stove/oven

· Wooden floorboards throughout

· Ducted gas heating with a brand-new heating unit

· Slow combustion radiant heat wood fireplaces in living and studio

· Economical Heat Pump electric hot water system

· Reverse cycle air-conditioning and fans in living and bedroom 2

· Hard-wired Genesys remote-controlled Inverter Generator 9.3KVA which can run the whole house

· Dry, well drained under house storage with concrete flooring and lockable storeroom Outdoor Features:

· Private and hidden from street view

· Concrete circular driveway with excellent drainage

· Single garage, single carport and plenty of off-street parking

· Merbau decking, perfect for that morning cuppa or entertaining

· Established gardens and mature trees for privacy

· Six raised ‘Vege Pod’ style 2m x 1m garden beds and flat usable terraced areas

Location Features:

· Short drive (1.1km) or walk to Cockatoo Township which includes the new IGA, eateries, Post Office, Pharmacy, Community Centre, Sporting Facilities, Off-leash dog park, Skate Park & Bowl, BMX track, bus 695 & 695F and Cockatoo Primary School.

· Wright Forest walking tracks that also lead to Emerald Lake and surrounds

· Hear the famous Puffing Billy train in the distance

· 17-minute drive to Pakenham, Wellington Road access only a 10-minute drive which takes you to the M1 freeway

· Come and enjoy the tranquil lifestyle this beautiful home and property has to offer.

Investor Information:

It is our opinion that if this property were offered for rent in the current market it would achieve an approximate return of $620 - $660 per week. ●

$690,000-$759,000

Nestledonover2/3ofanacreofuseableland,establishedgardens &accessedvia asealeddriveway,thiswelcomingpropertyisa havenoftranquility& contemporary comfort.Featuring, amodernkitchen,wooden floorboards,plushcarpetstobedrooms, wood fire,ductedheating,S/System,fantasticentertainmentwith afirepit,serveryfrom thekitchen,a carport, aspaciousshedattheback,anexcellentchickencoopandan expansivebackyardwhichextendstoa creek.Enjoybeingsurroundedbynaturehere!

ErinDavies 0493136937

LARGESTUDIO/RETREATWITHPRIVATEENTRY

Themomentyoudrivedowntheprivateconcretecirculardrivewayyourealisethatthis propertyisuniqueandveryspecial!backingontocrownland& theCockatooCreekand surroundedbynature youfeel like youare milesaway.Featuring alight andairy flexible floorplan,stunninghighvaulted ceilingswith exposed trusses, privatelyzoned master bedroom, modernkitchen,timberflooringthroughout,12m x5mstudio with separate entry,6 raised gardenbeds, concrete circulardrivewayandsomuch more!

MickDolphin 0429684522 COUNTRYSTYLEHOMEON1200sqm

Forthosewhohaveconsidereda TreeChange,thisinvitinghomepresentsanexciting opportunitytocapturethatruraltranquility.Whisperquietbutenjoysproximitytobelgrave Southshops &theprimaryschool.Timberaccents& aflexible floorplanarethehighlights here.Featuring aMiele-equippedkitchen,casualmealsarea,wood-burner, aseparate diningzone/sittingroom,upstairsextralivingarea,alfrescopatio,DGH,s/system,massive under-housestoreroom,dblcarport,150,000-litrewatertank, 8solarpanelsplus astudio.

GrantSkipsey 0418528102

APERFECTLOCATION

$1,150,000-$1,260,000

A 2 B 2 C

Nestledwithina quietcul-de-sac,whereprivacy,securityandpeaceofmindcome standard.Here,theworriesoftrafficandnoisearereplaced bythegentlehumofnature andthecomfortingembraceof aclose-knitcommunity.Thefabulousfloorplanoffers twoseparatelivingzones,twomaster suitesovertwolevels,spaciousloungewitha quaint balconyofferingpanoramicviewsofnaturalparklandandtheDandenongranges. Surrounded bylowmaintenancegardens &includesa doublegaragewithrearaccess.

JanBrewster 0409558805

ESCAPE TO YOUR RIVERSIDE PARADISE

NESTLED on over 1 & 1/2 acres of lush land, and enjoying adjacent river reserve, this enchanting property offers a lifestyle of tranquility and leisure rarely found. Picture yourself basking in the warmth of summer, lounging on the sprawling park-like grassland beside the gently cascading waters, while your children playfully dip their toes in the refreshing river.

As the day fades into evening, retreat to your expansive rear verandah, where relaxation awaits. Here, you can unwind amidst nature’s beauty, perhaps indulging in a soothing soak in the outdoor clawfoot bath. Inside, a cozy ambiance beckons, courtesy of the slow combustion wood fire and split system, ensuring year-round comfort for your family in the cosy living spaces.

The warmth of a lovely timber kitchen provides ample space to cook up a feast for the many family and friends who will no doubt be wanting to spend countless days

sharing your company at this special spot.

This property fulfills the dreams of many seeking a harmonious blend of nature and homely comfort. With two inviting bedrooms and an additional private studio or guest room, complete with its own little deck, the property offers versatility and seclusion. Invite all your family and friends to come and enjoy this blissful space as there is ample room for camping, and enjoying family activities.

Safety and security are paramount, thanks to the fenced backyard, providing peace of mind for both children and pets alike. And ample off-street parking, along with abundant shedding, and a secure shipping container that would be ideal to store motorbikes and the likes, further enhance the appeal of this idyllic retreat.

Don’t miss out on the chance to embrace a lifestyle of serenity and natural splendour.

Your riverside paradise awaits. ●

CharmingCharacterCottagesintheHeartofTown Stepbackintimewiththeseuniquecottagesthattrulyarea partofWarburton’shistory.A oneof akindopportunityina highlysoughtafterlocation,just aminutefromthehubofWarburton.This investor’sdelightoffersincrediblepotential,closetoshops,cafes,restaurants,publictransport,the Yarrariver,andthemagnificentWarburtonTrail.Thepropertyincludes2 charmingcottages,great foruseas aweekendretreator afantasticB&Bprospect.Thissolidinvestmentbenefitsfromrecent improvements,withampleopportunitytoaddyourpersonaltouchtotheseclassic,oldstyleguest houses.Ifyou’reseekinganinvestmentwitha difference,looknofurther.Locatedinoneofthemost in-demandandrapidlygrowingtourismdestinationsintheYarraValley,thispropertyis ararefind thatcombinescharm,convenienceandpotential. 1/2-4BrettRoad,Warburton

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

Quietcourtlivingwithmountainviews

Ifquietcourtliving,northfacing,sunny,andneatas apinhomearewhatisonyourbuyingcriteria, thenlooknofurther.Offering 2bedrooms,themainbedroomishugewithgenerousbuilt-inrobes andneutraltonesthroughoutwithlargewindowstoadmireyoursurrounds.Theloungeroomislovely andsunfilled,certainlytakingthemountainviewsforyoutoabsorbyourselfin.LuxuryVinylwood flooringthroughoutgive amodernfeelandlookwhilebeingconvenient.Thekitchenisquality timberthathasbeentastefullyupdatedandallowsenoughroomfora diningtablealso.Updated bathroom,plentyofstoragethroughout,and agreatlaundrywithcupboardsgalore.Outsideisa wellmaintainedyeteasygardentotinkeraroundin.Carportwithdirectentrytothehome,anda gorgeousverandatocompleteyourdayandtakeinallofyournaturalbeautythatsurroundsyou.

GrandHomewith5 bedroomsina SuperbLocation Anopportunityisnowavailableforpurchaserstoenjoythisgorgeousaccommodationopportunityor tohave adelightfulplacetocallhomewithspaceforalltheextendedfamily.Stepinsidethiswarm invitinghome,theloungewithpicturewindowswith amesmerisingview.Thekitchenislovelywith quirkyoriginalfeatures,a centrepieceofthehomeoverlookingthelargesunroomandformaldining, aperfectplacetogatherfor afamilymeal.Thegroundflooralsohostsa bedroom,bathroom,and separatetoilet,whileupstairsrevealstwoadditionalbedrooms, amainbathroom,anda double roomwithanensuite,offeringabundantlivingspace.Anadditionalstudiohasa further3 bedsif requiredseparatetothemainresidence.2 largegarages,ampleundercoverentertainingareaand wellestablishedgardensthatreallycomplimentthisenchantinghome.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

PerchedaboveandoverlookingtheWooriYallocktownshipandcolorfulsurroundingfarmland boastingfantasticviewsthispropertyoffersloadsofpotentialandscopeforimprovement.With approx1.5picturesqueacrestoexploreandenjoy,it’stheidealspottolivethesemirurallifestyle. Theoriginalfarmhouseownedandlovedforover50yearsoffers 2bedroomswitha combined lounge/livingareaandseparatekitchen.Outsideisthedreamsmallacreageescapewitha park likesettingon abeautifulallotmentandwithamplespaceforthebigandthesmallpetsplusplenty ofspaceforthekidstospreadout,enjoyandexplore.Amplestoragewith alockupgarage,plusa gardenshedandsmallmachineryshed/workshoparea.A fantasticsmallacreagepropertysituated in aconvenientandpopularlocation,it’s agreatplacetobe.

THE PERFECT PROPERTY PACKAGE

PERFECTLY located on the fringe of Sherbrooke Forest, in a quiet, end of court location, this property offers a secluded retreat for young families, first home buyers and down sizers alike.

Set amongst a colourful garden setting of over 1300m2, the location alone is sure to sell this great package.

There are three bedrooms, neat and tidy main bathroom, separate toilet and plenty of character throughout. Open plan in design, the main living area has a great amount of space along with plenty of natural light and opens up to an additional alfresco indoor / outdoor living area providing not only a second lounge but also a great entertaining space.

A wood fire, split system and ducted heating combine perfectly for efficient temperature control, giving this home warmth and comfort all year round. The kitchen, although original, is neat, clean and tidy and will certainly accommodate any aspiring cook.

Outside, the useable block has a canopy of mature trees and a sealed driveway that leads to multiple parking bays – Perfect for your extra cars, trailers and toys.

Within a pleasant walk to Tecoma’s main street, local bus route and schools, this property offers a perfect package you simply cannot miss. ●

Local rookies selected

By Mikayla Van Loon

A former Yarra Glen and Wandin junior footballer has been given a chance to play at the elite level, having been selected at the AFL Mid-Season Draft on Wednesday 29 May.

At pick number four, Box Hill Hawks VFL player Max Hall was chosen by St Kilda for his midfield and half forward talent.

St Kilda’s talent identification and player movement manager Simon Dalrymple said the club had its eye on the 22-year-old for some time and “we’re thrilled to have him as a part of our list”.

“He’s a tough midfielder/half-forward who comes equipped with speed, endurance and tenacity, but also has good football smarts and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure,” he said.

Receiving the phone call from Dalrymple, he congratulated Hall for “sticking at it” and said the draft pick was “well deserved”.

A spot on the Saints’ list opened up after defender JamesVan Es was moved to the inactive list due to injury.

Hall began his junior career notching up 82 games at Yarra Glen Football Netball Club before transferring to Wandin Junior Football Club where he played another 30 games.

Taking a leap from the Outer Eastern League to the Eastern League to play out his junior football days at Montrose, Hall became a dual best and fairest winner and a junior premiership player.

In 2021 he was selected by the Eastern Ranges where he was awarded runner up best and fairest.

Come the 2022 season, Hall signed to Montrose’s senior side as well as being picked for the Box Hill Hawks.

The accolades kept coming for the young gun, receiving back to back best first year player awards for both his local club and theVFL side.

Trades & Services

Hall played 30 VFL games for the Hawks over the last three seasons and took his game to another level in 2024, averaging 24 disposals and four tackles across seven appearances, while also kicking five goals.

Following a similar path, despite some injuries, 18-year-old Iliro Smit became Collingwood’s newest draftee on Wednesday night coming in at pick number 10.

The 200cm tall ruckman was selected for his hitouts, physicality and aggression, with the club’s head recruiter Derek Hine commenting he would sit nicely as “a developing ruck” be-

hind current listed player Oscar Steene.

“He’s going to be a guy who can work into our system. We’ll give him the time to develop in our system and athletically, I feel, and the group feels that he’s a player that can play the way we play,” he said.

Hearing the news surrounded by family and friends at home, Smit said when his name was called he thought “no way that’s my name”.

“It was a great surprise, crazy, surreal,” he said.

Smit said it was “up in the air” whether he

was going to be selected mid-season or during the end of year draft.

“We had an interview and we talked but it wasn’t set in stone…I’m just stoked it’s happened,” he said.

As to his playing style, Smit confirmed the recruitment team’s interest in him and said he was someone who liked “putting pressure around the ground not just in the ruck”.

“I love playing with an aggressive nature, going hard at the ball, following up and repeat efforts, especially around the ground,” he said.

Eighteen-year-old Iliro Smit was drafted at pick 10 by Collingwood. Picture: COLLINGWOOD FC

Box Hill Hawks VFL player Max Hall was chosen at pick number four by St Kilda.

Picture: BOX HILL HAWKS

High spirits for Healesville

By Sarah Bailey

Healesville Firsts 6-1 Le Ralph Alps (Lilydale)

Early missed chances raised the spectre of one of those days for Healesville, but Cam D broke the deadlock after 20 minutes to score his first, and scored a second soon afterwards.

A goal for the away side against the run of play saw a slight shift in momentum, but Cam D completed a first-half hat trick to keep Healesville ascendant. Midway through the second half, 3 quick goals from Anthony M, Brian W and Josh L sealed the result.

Healesville U8 Tigers 6-2 U8 MUFC

A great effort from the entire team, with Luca, Axel, Jude and Wyatt forming a super-strong defence.

Oliver, Reece, Zac and Jack all hit the back of the net, and credit must go to Oliver and Jude in goals.

Healesville U9 Lions 8-6 Bayswater Strikers

After a quick goal by Bayswater, visiting team

Healesville had a great run, scoring the next 4.

It got closer after the break, but the Lions carried the day thanks to scorers Hudson (5), Colton (2) and Maverick (1).

Healesville U9 Redbacks 3-2 Blackburn Raptors

Will R opened the scoring with a nice goal through heavy traffic. Max P scored another soon afterwards, sending the ball over the defenders and keeper.

The Redbacks’ defence stood up well, with Teddy F making multiple saves.

It was 2-0 at half time, but the Raptors came out hungry and levelled the score before Louie slotted home a goal to put the Redbacks in front.

Special mentions to Ben, Karl and Max for some fantastic efforts.

Healesville Senior Women 2-1 Knox Strikers Battling sickness and injury, the team held their undefeated position on the ladder with a tight win.

Knox put up a good fight, but an early goal lobbed perfectly by Ava H, followed by a beautiful set-up from Kiera S for Melita C to smash it into the back of the net kept Healesville ahead. Keeper Kelly L continued her strong game this

season with dynamic goal-saving.

Healesville U13 Girls Hearts 1-1 Waverley City

The Hearts were lucky not to go a few goals down in the first 15 minutes: Waverley hit the post twice after some fantastic goalkeeping from Henrietta I.

Healesville snuck a 1-0 lead on the stroke of half time with a great team goal finished by Poppy T.

In the second half, the girls kept the lead right up until 45 seconds to go, when aWaverley corner was deflected into the Healesville net.

Georgia C was a clear best on ground, and Stella C and Isla L also played well.

Healesville U10 Ninjas 1-1 Knox

Adapting to new conditions and playing on a smaller pitch with fewer players, the teams proved to be evenly matched.

Coach Nik did well to manage game time for all and keep the team focused. Willis K was lively up front, chasing down balls and providing opportunities.

Milos K was a rock in defence, repelling a skilful opposition.

Max K was brave in goals in the second half, making great saves, and then flipped the script to score the equaliser for the team.

Plozza breaks record

By Anne-Marie Ebbels

It was a big celebration at Don Road this week with Daniel Plozza breaking Tom Ayres club games record.

Plozza played his 346th games in the red and white and the senior team made sure it was a win to celebrate the record.

With a few players unavailable due to injury, Healesville took a while to get going in the game, but once the team hit their groove, Max Donegan andTyler Barclay finished off in front of goal kicking nine goals and five goals respectively of Healesville 17 goals.

AstrongthirdquarterbyHealesvilleputthe game beyond doubt and Healesville ran out winners by 64 points in the milestone game.

In the Reserves,Yea got out to a quick start going into the first break with a 13-point lead.

Healesville hit back in the second quarter reducing Yea’s lead to two points at half-time. In a four goal to none third quarter Healesville tookcontrolofthegametorunoutwinnersby 20 points.

The U18s headed up the hill to Olinda for their game, the first quarter was tough with only one major scored with Healesville going into the first break six points up.

Healesville hit their straps in the second quarter keeping Olinda-Ferny Creek goalless whilescoringfourgoalstogointothebigbreak with a 30-point lead.

Healesville continued to dominate the second half and Olinda-Ferny Creek remained goalless for the game.

Healesville were big winners by 59 points.

The Women’s team made the trek down south to Pakenham this week. Pakenham got out to an early lead going into quarter time 10

points up.

A dour second quarter produced limited scoring opportunities for both teams with Healesville managing the only score for the quarter reducing Pakenham’s lead to nine points.

Pakenham came out the third quarter and kept Healesville scoreless while increasing their lead to 24 points at third quarter time.

Healesville struggled to create scoring opportunities in the final quarter and couldn’t convert the ones they had into goals.

Pakenham handed Healesville their first defeat this season by 34 points.

In the netball, A Grade got off to a strong start securing a number of turnovers to go into the first break with a five-goal lead. Yea hitbackinthesecondquarterandreducedthe leadtotwogoalsathalf-time.Healesvillecame out hard in the third quarter and kept Yea to singlegoalandincreasedtheirleadto19goals.

Healesville maintained their dominance in thefinalquartertorunoutwinnersby25goals.

Healesville U12 Heelers 2-2 KCSC Force

In a closely contested away match against Knox, the Heelers did themselves proud, with great leadership by captain Oscar.

Beautiful passing through midfield and among the forward line saw Healesville keep the pressure on the KCSC goal.Yuuki’s determination against several well-drilled attacks was excellent to see.

Healesville U15 Girls Flames 3-4 Knox Force Goal for goal in the first half saw the teams head into the break 2-2.

The second half continued to be a seesawing battle, with Knox managing a late winner against a disappointed but ever improving Healesville outfit.

Senior Women Reds 0-1 Maroondah FC Sapphires

Away at Silcock Reserve, the undermanned Reds dominated possession in the first half but couldn’t get past the experienced Maroondah goalkeeper.

The score was nil-all at half time.

Healesville injuries and tired bodies saw Maroondah go ahead 1-0 early in the second half.

Healesville created chance after chance, but it was not to be. Shoutout to Olive B, Jessica P

and Sally C for their relentless running and everyone in the team for their never-give-up attitude.

Healesville U15s 2-4 MUFC Valour

A familiar story continued for the U15s, with four players out with illness or injury and some on the ground bravely trying to play through.

With the help of Manny W, Healesville kept the game fairly even despite quick turnover goals from the visitors.

Healesville struck first in the second half, but Valour responded to keep their two-goal lead.

Another Healesville goal late in the game was met with another quick response. It was nonetheless a good showing for Healesville, whose ladder position doesn’t reveal their true potential.

Healesville Reserves 1-3 Lilydale Threegles Healesville took on second-placed Lilydale in a local derby. After three wins on the bounce, Healesville were full of confidence but missing a few players.

Lilydale took the lead through a wonderful free kick and headed into half time with a 1-0 lead.

Tom E scored with a delightful chip and it looked like Healesville might cause an upset, but two quick goals from the visitors saw the game go Lilydale’s way.

Healesville U13s 0-3 Berwick

A tough day at the office for a Healesville team low on confidence after a few losses.

The home side struggled to match Berwick’s intensity.

The second half was better, but the Reds couldn’t make inroads behind the away side’s defence. Keepers Dylan C and Ryder H performed admirably, and Cooper W and Liam W never gave up.

Healesville U9 Falcons 1-4 Blackburn New Hope

The Falcons put in a great effort against strong opposition in Blackburn.

An opening goal from Ethan S was a great start, but Blackburn began to get on top and the score stood at 3-1 at half time.

In the second half the Falcons were unlucky in their fightback, seeing Blackburn’s keeper stop every attempt.

Warburton prove too strong

By David Ball

Yarra Glen travelled to Warburton to take on the 4th placed team.

The Burras started dominating the centres clearances and feeding their fast leading forwards.

Liam Westlake was proving too quick for the River Pig defenders as he marked well and converted early goals.

The Yarra Glen defenders were under siege and despite great efforts from Ky Hawkins and Max dePina in defence Warby took a 28 point lead into quarter time.

The second quarter was much of the same, withWarby’s ruck dominating.

Yarra Glen were unable to connect going forward and numerous turnovers added to the relentless pressure the defenders faced.

Some inaccurate kicking from the Burras saw them add 4.8 for the quarter to Yarra Glen’s two goals to take a 48 point lead into the main break.

The second half was a scrappy affair as the River Pigs lifted their intensity to break even in general play.

Warburton Millgrove were only able to add three goals for the half asYarra Glen scored two.

Caleb Surplice was able to nullify Westlake and with great support from Nate Capuano they halted the Burras momentum.

Jim Marks was providing a great contest up forward as the River Pig midfielders matched it with their opponents.

Warburton Millgrove were quicker and cleaner with their ball movement but the effort from Yarra Glen in the second half was commendable.

Final Sores,Yarra Glen 5.4 toWarburton Millgrove 12.21.

Best players were: Sam Wood, Ky Hawkins, Nate Capuano, Jim Marks, and Max DePina. GoalkickersJamesBrereton,SamWood,Rich-

ard Gurney, Josh Hawkins and Ethan Murdock. The Yarra Glen reserves took on 4th placed Warburton Millgrove in cool but pleasant conditions.

Things didn’t start well for Yarra Glen before the bounce as some last minute changes to the senior team left the ressies with 21 players.

With a couple of early injuries the depleted River Pigs struggled from the start against a quicker and fitter Burras group.

A great tackle and resulting goal from Andrew Cowan levelled the scores early in the first quarter, but from then on Yarra Glen could not keep up asWarburton ran hard from defence to create numerous opportunities for their forwards.

Matt McKenzie and Drew Brodie were great in defence, Dayne Downward and Taylor Bryans working hard in the midfield to provide a contest.

The Burras were consistent through the 4 quarters as the Yarra Glen went down 1.0 to 21.27.

Best players were Dayne Downward, Taylor Bryans, Drew Brodie, Dylan Harding, Matt McKenzie andWill Duff.

Andrew Cowan was the goalkicker.

The netball A Grade was a physical encounter as expected asYarra Glen took on top of the ladderWarburton Millgrove.

The Yarra girls were brave and steadfast in the face of this, with Megan Galetti leading the charge out of defence, and Alana McGurgan as usual providing a four quarter effort. Jacqui Hibberd was knocked about by every opposition player and yet provided good service all game.

With Warburton defence double teaming Maddy Hargrave, Lara Wandin-Collins had to work extra hard and kept us in the game with her skill with the ball and accurate shooting.

EventuallyYarra Glen went down 52-40.

Healesville’s Senior Men’s Reserves took on second-placed Lilydale in a local derby. Picture: SUPPLIED

Daniel Plozza on Anzac Day.

Picture: KYLIE ROWE

Still unbeaten

By Brendan Donovan

Another solid day of results for Woori Yallock as they hosted Gembrook-Cockatoo.

The morning started well with another outstanding performance from the Under 18 side, the Unders have put themselves in a very good position as they head into the King’s Birthday break.

Woori Yallock 18.18, 126 defeated Seville, 3.7, 25. Top Tigers were Ronan Taylor, Mason O’Neill, Maximus Iskra, Lewis Player, Elken Croydon and Max Rees.

The Ressies came up against a strong opponent who had beaten Narre Warren the week before while it was also great to see Cal French making his comeback after a long-term knee injury. The Ressies have taken big steps this year but need to keep building as they hit the dog days part of the season.

Woori Yallock 2.7, 19 defeated by Gembrook-Cockatoo 10.12, 72. Top Tigers were Jesse Mclaren, Nicholas Maile, Tom Kear, Matthew Cliff, Hamish Gemmill and Luke Cottier. In the Women’s Footy, it was probably the best performance of the year to date, a very even contribution that saw the girls get the win over local rivalWandin. The women’s team has done an amazing job to date gelling into a topthree team and deserves the week off. Woori Yallock 4.4, 28 defeated Wandin 2.5, 17. Top Tigers were Sky Wilson, Piper Crymble, Rachael Lee, Catrina D’couto, Michelle Brown and Kira Kendall.

The Seniors put out a workmanlike display with the Brookers taking it up to the hosts for a quarter and a half with the scores level at 2.2, 14 each at quarter time and a slender lead for WooriYallock at halftime, 6.5, 41 to 3.6, 24. The Tigers were able to get the game on their terms with a blistering third quarter, with the older players Jordan Williams, Zach Monkhorst and Robbie Allen leading the way when the game was up for grabs. The boys have a week off now after a 8-0 start knowing that each week they need to face that challenge.

Woori Yallock 15.14, 106 defeated Gembrook-Cockatoo 6.10, 46. Top Tigers were Williams, Allen, Monkhorst Kody Busoli, Jak Ryan and Joshua Neal.

In netball, it was one ofWooriYallock’s most successful days so far this year with the A, B and D grade sides getting a win The netball program is starting to find its groove and the club is super excited about the second half of

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the season for all the teams.

· A Grade: Woori Yallock 51 defeated Gembrook-Cockatoo 35. No best players selected.

· B Grade: Woori Yallock 70 defeated Gembrook-Cockatoo 36. No best players selected.

· C Grade: Woori Yallock 23 defeated by Gembrook-Cockatoo 34. No best players selected.

· D Grade: Woori Yallock 36 defeated Gembrook-Cockatoo 4. No best players selected.

· 17 and Under: Woori Yallock 21 defeated by Narre Warren 49. Nobest players selected.

· U15: Woori Yallock 19 defeated by Berwick 25. No best players selected.

This week, the club’s hard-working volunteers get a breather as most of the Outer East competition takes a week off.

Wandin prevail in Paky

Wandin looked to enjoy the opportunity to get to the bigger ground at Pakenham on Saturday afternoon as the Dogs took on the Lions.

Although the first quarter was a tight contest, Wandin’s inaccuracy kept Pakenham close on the scoreboard (1.1, 7 to 2.5, 17 at quarter time) before the Dogs were able to break the game and the ground open in the second quarter to establish a strong lead at halftime, 2.2, 15 to 8.8, 56.

Chayce Black and Pat Bruzzese were instrumental through the middle of the ground and across half back while Aaron Mullet (5 goals) is always dangerous with room to move inside forward 50 as the trio featured among Wandin’s best.

In the end, the Dogs walked away winners with the final score reading 5.7, 37 to 16.11, 107.

Top Dogs on the day were Black, Bruzzese, Jordan Jaworski, Charlie Wood, Mullett and Macauley Beckwith.

Joining Mullett on the goalkickers list were Clinton Johnson, Beckwith and Wood with 2 and Harrison Byrne, Patrick Hodgett, Max Le Fevre, Jack Mason and Jaworksi with one apiece.

Other results:

· Reserves Football: Pakenham 7.5, 47 defeated Wandin 3.9, 27. Top Dogs were Tyson Smith, Riley Dawson-Muir, Hunter Coghlan, Josh James, Tom Page and Jake Iedema.

U19s Football: Bye

· Women’s Football: Woori Yallock 4.4, 28

Burras battle Yarra Glen before the break

By Alex Woods

Big day on the weekend for the Burras at three milestones were celebrated; Trent Elliott’s 50th game, Aaron Pye’s 300th game and the Club’s 1000th game as WarburtonMillgrove hosted Yarra Glen in Footy and Netball while the Women’s Footy took on Officer.

D grade started the morning, Yarra Glen got the strong lead at halftime with a score of 9-16.

Unfortunately, Yarra Glen bought a strong game against our young D Grade, but they put up a good fight. The final score was 18 to 30, Brooke de Pedro put up 10 goals, Maddie Loveless with 5 and Sienna Muir with 3. Layla Ata, Hannah Darwall and Sienna Muir were the top performers.

The Women’s Footy started off the footy for the day against Officer. A strong start by the team, with a 2.5-17 to 0 first quarter.The second quarter was much the same securing another 2.3, but allowing Officer to gain 1.1 of themselves. The second half, they continued their momentum and finished off with a 9.12-66 to 2.2-14 win. Jade Mewburn had another solid game, kicking 4 goals. Lily Pagels, Gabby Woods, Jade Radford, EmersonWoods and Charleen Gray all secured 1 goal each. Jade Mewburn, EmersonWoods, Jade Radford, Kylie Ockwell and Sally McIntosh were all top performers for the match.

C Grade was next on court and had a tough game in front of them. The game started in Warby’s favour with an 11-7 lead at quarter time. Unfortunately, Yarra Glen had a strong second quarter, shooting 13 goals to out 7.The game remained close until quarter time with 1 goal being the difference, Yarra Glen’s way. YG came out strong in the last quarter and took home a 7 goal win.

Mel Hancock secured 16 goals and Ashlyn Hermansen with 12. Courtney Lever, Mel Hancock and Casey Hare were the stars of the game.

B Grade also had a tough game ahead of them. The first quarter was strong by both teams, but Warby had the lead at the first break by 4 goals. Halftime was only 2 goals, Warby’s way but Yarra Glen came out strong in the second half. They secured the win by 4 goals. Tayla Ferguson put up 33 goals, Alex Woods with 11 and Zoe Timoney with 3. Tayla Ferguson,

ChayceBlackwasinstrumentalinWandin’s win. 410426 Picture:STEWARTCHAMBERS

defeated Wandin 2.5, 17. Top Dogs were Lottie Read, Hailee Stokes, Tyana RyanBader, Stella Beyer, Madeline Stokes and Chloe Waterhouse.

· A Grade Netball: Pakenham 43 defeated by Wandin 59. Top Dogs were Emmalia Blake, Charlotte Sparkes and Maddy George.

· B Grade: Pakenham 57 defeated Wandin 42. Top Dogs were Madeline Seeley, Annie Brown and Ella Tweedale.

· C Grade: Pakenham 30 defeated by Wandin 36. Top Dogs were Bianca Zoric, Aimee Mackenzie and Marlee Smart.

· D Grade: Pakenham 29 defeated by Wandin 35. Top Dogs were Stephanie Braniska, Ella Rumian and Kealey Earney.

· 17 and Under Netball: Pakenham 12 defeated by Wandin 19. Top Dogs were Annie Brown, Elsie Mitchell and Claudia Semos.

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Ruby Kelly and Zoe Timoney were stars of the match.

Reserves took the field after the women for Aaron’s 300th game. Burra’s came out firing with a 30- 6 lead at the first break. The Burras were able to keep Yarra Glen to only scoring their only goal in the first quarter. By halftime, they had a nice lead of 10.11-71 to 1.0-6. They continued on in the second head and had a massive win of 21-27-153 to 1.0-6. David Lever kicked 5 goals, Aaron secured 4 goals for his big game, as well as Damien Egan. Matt Sidari kicked 3, Tim McKail and Chad Currey both got 2, and Dave Bedggood and Caelan Flynn both secured 1. Caelan Flynn, David Lever, David Bedggood, Brett Winzer, Damien Egan and Chad Currey were all top performers.

A Grade started strong with a 12-6 lead at quarter time. The game was intense but they held a nice lead to be 6 goals up at halftime.They took control for the remainder of the game and extended the lead to take the win by 11 goals. 51 to 40 was the final score with Karly Wappett putting up 28 goals and Bianca Daniels with 23. Ally Langdon, Karly Wappett and Jessie Hare were top performers for the match.

The Seniors finished off the day.They got a nice start of 5.4-34 to 1.0-6, and continued on much the same into halftime. The game was much in Burras’ favour and secured a nice win of 12.21-93 to 5.3-34. Hudson Semple secured 2 goals, James Iacono,Trent Elliott, Jack Farrugia, Bailey Humphrey, Lachlan Hewitt and Liam Westlake all secured 1. Top Performers were Tom Baker, Brock Caneva, Nelson Aldridge, Dylan Walker, Tyson Henry and Bailey Humphrey.

The ladies are coming

By Ron Hottes

The V.V.V’s: Eight ladies played this week in a fantastic turnout though unfortunately, a couple who were super keen played 18 holes, so therefore, their results were not included in the final list. But, on this day, we have a new name to celebrate as Maureen Hyndman was this week’s prize winner. 14 points was just good enough for Maureen to get over the line, as she pipped Suzanne Barratt after a tight countback. Well done indeed to both girls and Noel, take note as bragging rights go to Maws this week. Great effort ladies and great to see the starting numbers growing as the weeks roll by.

Wednesday 29 May, Stableford: I’m always eager to see what result is required to take home the chokkies, especially in Stableford comp. This week, plenty of points needed to be posted, because regular winner, Deb Hamment, accumulated 38 of them to be our top winner this week. No countback was required here because Deb’s result was enough to edge out the runner-up Barry Maltman with his solid 37 points. Barry’s recent scores have been consistently in the mid-30s, so this result was no surprise. The ball rundown stretched to 34. NTP take-home winners were as follows: Aaron Henderson, (3rd), current Club Champion, Clint Toohey, (5th), Your Loyal Scribe, (9th), Peter Bell, (12th) and Ken White who’s up to his old tricks again, for a win on his favourite 15th.

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Saturday 1 June, Stroke and Monthly Medal: A first-up medal win this month to none other than Jason Kennedy, who slayed them by posting a very impressive Nett 67. Kenno’s score was good enough for him to take home both the Medal and the A-Grade voucher. Paul Osbourne was the runner-up in this Grade, and balls reached down to 69 only. Barry Maltman is the B-Grade winner, with a classy Nett 69 posted. The B-Grade runner-up was Angus Hall, shooting a Nett 70. In this Grade, the ball rundown reached 73. Ben ‘Panda’ Lever had a good day out collecting an NTP on both the 3rd and the 5th. On the 9th, it went to Chris ‘Fuzzy’ Fall, whilst Matt Maloney hit a great tee shot on the tricky 12th. Finally, immediate past Club Champion Michael Batten collected an NTP on the 15th.