Mail - Lilydale Star Mail - 2nd July 2024

Picture:SUPPLIED

Healesville paramedic conquers highest peak

It’s known as one of the toughest challenges on Earth but oneYarra Ranges resident conquered the climb.

A Montrose resident and a paramedic for the Yarra Valley, Alison Bowen has climbed numerous summits before but this was the ultimate experience - getting to the top of Mount Everest.

Undertaking the Seven Summits Challenge, climbing the highest peak on each of the seven continents, Ms Bowen ticked off Everest as the fifth on the to-do list.

It took nine months of training and preparation of, not only, her body but her mind to reach the peak.

To read the full story turn to page 10

Crime on rise

By Tanya Steele

Property-related crimes have driven up crime acrossVictoria this year and overall crime is up across the Dandenong Ranges andYarraValley according to the latest figures from the Crime Statistics Agency (CSA).

Repeat offenders, property theft, family violence and youth crime remain a priority for Victoria Police after the recent release with cost of living being floated as partly responsible for the rise.

Criminal incidents in Casey were up by 13.3 per cent, Cardinia 10.7 per cent, Knox by 8.3 per cent, Maroondah by five per cent and the Yarra Ranges by 2.1 per cent since last year.

The top categories in crime for these areas all included breaches of family violence orders, criminal damages, motor vehicle, retail and other thefts in varying orders while across Victoria theft and criminal damages took out the top five.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Regional Operations Brett Curran said while family violence and child and youth crime remain significant concerns, it’s pleasing that almost three years since the final Victorian coronavirus restriction was lifted, our crime rate remains 6.2 per cent below pre-pandemic levels.

“Police intelligence from Operation Trinity also indicates the top 20 burglars and car thieves in Melbourne have committed almost one fifth of all burglaries where a car was stolen over the past year.

A spokesperson from police media has said repeat offenders account for over two-thirds of the state’s total crimes.

“This is particularly relevant for offences

such as home burglaries and theft,” they said.

“While overall crime has gradually increased since Victoria emerged from the pandemic, offending has still not reached prepandemic levels.”

CSA Chief Statistician Fiona Dowsley said there has been a 17 per cent increase in theft offences in Victoria recorded in the last 12 months.

“This rapid increase in crimes involving the acquisition of property may be related to cost of living pressures,” she said.

“The increase in property-related crime was the largest contributor to the overall increase in crime in the last year.”

Victoria Police have said police intelligence has shown unlocked vehicles are being targeted, with more than 60 per cent of cars recently broken into in one hotspot found to be unlocked.

“The most common theft (other) offence is theft of petrol, which may also be linked to cost of living pressures,” they said.

Motor vehicle theft has peaked with the the highest number of offences since 2017 in Victoria and police intelligence indicated the three most common places cars are stolen are from a residential area (with no associated offence), non-residential street or carpark, and during an aggravated burglary.

Retail outlets are being hit with thefts targeting essential items like food and police intelligence have said this indicates as many as 50 per cent of offenders are first time shop stealers, while a quarter are first time criminal offenders.

Continued page 3

Few changes to spending

By Mikayla van Loon

Sticking to a budget of priorities and key services, Yarra Ranges Council made minimal alterations to the 2024-25 outlook seeing the final budget adopted with near full support.

The biggest adjustment, after a submission from Lilydale resident Rosemary Mosely on Tuesday 28 May, was the funding of $50,000 in 2024-25 and a further $288,000 in 2025-26 for drainage design and improvements on Chapel Street.

This was reallocated from the overall drainage improvement works budget, reducing the drafted 2024-25 figure to $150,000 and the 2025-26 allotment to $1,562,000.

Ms Mosely had called for $330,000 for prioritised upgrades that she believes will benefit residents of the area, the parents of Lilydale Pre-School children, Anglicare staff, visitors to Melba Park and the Lilydale Outdoor Pool, local business owners in and around the area and residents of Lilydale Lodge.

No adjustments were made to Lilydale’s $550,000 for drainage upgrade works aiming to address flooding and erosion issues, adding to the total $3.5 million allocated each year for the next two years across the shire.

Across a six year plan, $16 million has been allocated to drainage upgrade works, as well as the foundational work required, which was noted as being a substantial increase from previous year’s budgets.

Roads in the urban area set for drainage works include Belle Vue Lilydale ($200,000),

Carmen Reserve – Lilydale ($200,000), Fernhill Road Mount Evelyn ($445,000), Nimblefoot Way/Delta Close Lilydale ($150,000), North Avenue Mount Evelyn ($415,000), Wilsons Lane Lilydale Stage 1 ($50,000) and $263,000 for general drainage rehabilitation.

Cobden Crescent Lilydale ($552,000), Edinburgh Road Lilydale ($51,000) and Morrison Reserve ($123,000) have been cited for funding in the 2025-26 financial year to provide better drainage and stormwater management.

Mayor Sophie Todorov said the increase in

spending on drainage infrastructure equated to 300 per cent from the previous year based on calls from the community to do so.

“Given our region’s heavy rainfall and storm events over the last few years, it’s apparent that the community identified improving and maintaining drains to reduce flooding as one of the top priorities,” Cr Todorov said.

“One thing we heard loud and clear was that people want more focus on infrastructure, our roads, our footpaths and drainage and to maintain the assets we have.”

CameronCourtKilsyth($46,000),CleggRoad Mount Evelyn ($28,000), Greeves Drive Kilsyth, ($281,000), Lena Grove Kilsyth ($81,000) and Maroondah Highway Lilydale ($37,000) will undergo footpath rehabilitation works.

The Lions Park renewal has been allocated a further $25,000 for the reconstruction project, while the biggest reserve renewal projects included $2.1 million for the Chirnside Urban Park playspace at Belsay Reserve, the $4.2 million for the Pinks Reserve upgrades and the $2.9 million for Mount Evelyn’s Morrison Reserve playspace renewal.

Pleased to see Mount Evelyn’s projects funded, councillor Tim Heenan said however, he could not accept the 2.75 per cent rate rise for residents.

“It’s a great budget. I have concerns obviously, with the rates and I have concerns with what we’re going to do this year,” he said.

“In keeping with what I’ve been doing and the promise I made to my constituents, I’ll not be voting to accept that rise in the rates but I

thank the council staff for all the work they’ve done in recognising some of the issues.”

Cr Heenan said given the restraints of budgeting “there’s a lot more we would want in here” but was grateful to have seen the community being listened to in the drainage investment.

“Infrastructure has been a most important fact in putting together this budget and some of the ageing infrastructure we have in the whole Yarra Range is going to need a lot more money spent on it in years to come,” he said.

“I sincerely hope that we’ll be able to obtain money through federal and state governments in the future, and not only leaving it to ratepayers.”

Yarra Ranges Council has predicted slight reductions in both revenue and expenditure since the draft budget; down from revenue of $253.6 million and expenditure of $235.8 million to $252.9 million and $235.1 million respectively.

This has seen the total surplus drop from $18.8 million to $17.8 million but the council has maintained its net operating deficit of $3.5 million.

Council has stuck with its estimated $68.3 million expenditure through the Capital Works Program, of which $25.1 million will be rates funded, $1.6 million from contributions from various sporting clubs or other community groups and the rest through borrowings and external grants.

The budget passed with support from all councillors bar Cr Heenan.

How submissions helped shape the 2024/25 budget

By Callum Ludwig

Yarra Ranges Council’s draft 2024/25 Budget was open for community feedback from Wednesday 24 April to Sunday 19 May and resident’s thoughts have been factored into the final adopted budget on Tuesday 25 June.

The Star Mail took a look at Yarra Ranges Council’s responses to submissions on the draft budget to see what has been worked into the final budget and what residents expressed their approval of.

Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Sophie Todorov said they sincerely value and appreciate the feedback and submissions provided by community members.

“We saw that more than 470 people visited our Shaping Yarra Ranges website to look at the draft budget and it was downloaded 264 times,” she said.

“We also received 22 written submissions from our community and we had eight people actually come to a public council meeting to put their submissions forward here in the council chamber.”

The following are submissions where Yarra Ranges Council identified an action it has taken or will take as a result:

Most significantly, Yarra Ranges Council reallocated some funding in the Capital Expenditure program for the provision for general drainage improvements to address the concerns of residents of Chapel Street in Lilydale.

Yarra Ranges Council also noted a couple of community submissions they would note down to advocate for or that will be prioritised in coming years:

A footpath on Kingswood Drive, Chirnside Park was requested by a submitter and is something the Council’s Footpath Prioritisation Framework has deemed a high priority project. A potential project is set to be scoped further and forwarded for recommendation for inclusion in the capital works program from 2026/27.

Yarra Ranges Council advised a submitter to participate in the consultation opportunities for a future Municipal Health and Wellbeing Strategy which Council will be considering over the course of this year and into the next.

A ‘long-time Hills resident’ had their concerns regarding storm management acknowledged, with Council noting that it is looking to equip sites with redundancy options for power outages through generator plug in points, continuing to work with ‘12 interested com-

munity groups’ on community emergency preparedness and mobilisation in disasters and adapting to new systems, such as the solar and battery systems at the Olinda Recreation Reserve which faced ‘hardware challenges’ in the immediate aftermath of the June 2021 storm event.

Yarra Ranges Council advised its Road Maintenance team and the contract service provider to address any immediate concerns on the network of roads in Kallista at the request of the Kallista Flood Watch group while already have conducted some remedial works, while continuing to advocate for Roads for Community funding to be restored by the Federal Government in order to recommence previously planned road sealing projects in Kallista and around the region.

In addressing multiple submissions regarding homelessness in the region, Council reiterated its support for service providers and projects that are working to alleviate the issue, including a $120,000 Community Partnership grantAnchortowardsitsRapidResponseProject Council, resourcing advocacy to support

and push for the Cerini Centre Social and Affordable Housing project in Warburton and is working with key partners and local response providers seeking opportunities for improved access, funding, and housing options.

Council forwarded a request for ‘enhanced maintenance’ on Bristol Crescent and NimblefootWay Lilydale to the maintenance team to consider based on their current service levels after two separate submissions.

Advised owners of rateable properties in The Heritage Estate of their options to apply for a rate rebate to their properties, put forward due to the ‘community amenity’ the Owners Corporation Committee and Heritage Golf and Country Club believes they provide.

Advised that funding for the design stage of an upgrade to Edinburg Road, Lilydale has been allocated for future years but the proposal to bring it forward to 2024/25 is not supported.

Fixed an error on the ‘Budget for a Glance’ pageoftheCouncilwebsitetoreflecttheroads capital expenditure budget of $18.2m after a submitter’s outrage of the incorrect figure.

Advised that planning approvals in the Council section of the Olinda Creek Trail are hoped to progress during 2024.25 but a large part of any project on the trail is reliant of ParksVictoria and MelbourneWater.

Will include the Belgrave, Olinda and Monbulk public toilet sites for increased cleaning and maintenance works, while also assessing these and all public toilet sites for more significant upgrade works.

Yarra Ranges Council expressed appreciation for the support of two submitters in regards to e proposed drainage works for North Avenue, Mount Evelyn.

Yarra Ranges Council also acknowledged and attempted to give insight on its efforts to submitters who expressed concerns regarding environmental issues/climate change, the Council’s financial position, emergency management funding in comparison to funding for the arts and entertainment and the nonprioritisation of specific footpath works and/ or traffic calming measures on Alexander Avenue, Upwey.

Drainage investigation and improvement works for Chapel Street Lilydale were added to the Yarra Ranges Council budget. 416174

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

Submissions played their part in the final 2024/25 Yarra Ranges Council Budget.

Picture: ON FILE

Motorcyclist critical

A motorcyclist was taken to hospital after colliding with a vehicle in Montrose last Tuesday evening.

It is believed a car, of four wheel drive stature, and a motorcycle collided on Cambridge Road, at the intersection of Swansea Road, about 6pm on 25 June.

The solo rider was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Ambulance Victoria confirmed Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) paramedics attended the scene.

“One man was transported by road ambulance to the Royal Melbourne Hospital with upper and lower body injuries, in a critical condition,” a spokesperson said.

The hospital also confirmed a patient of that description remained in a critical condition.

Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives were tasked with investigating the incident.

The driver of the car is currently assisting police with their enquiries.

Cambridge Road was closed for a number of hours, with Swansea Road reduced to one

lane each way while investigators worked.

This location has been the site of eight recorded accidents according to Victoria Road Crash Data, which is compiled through Victoria Police reports and hospital injury information.

The earliest collision at the T-intersection where it involved another vehicle was recorded in 2013. There have been four other recorded collisions with another vehicle, one with a pedestrian, one with a fixed object and one where a vehicle has veered off the carriageway.

Between January 2013 and November 2023, the Transport Accident Commission recorded that 493 motorcyclists had been injured in a collision in the Yarra Ranges and subsequently taken to hospital

The Montrose collision investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the collision, or with CCTV/dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Slight rise recorded in crime numbers

From page 1

Victoria Police also responded to a record number of family violence incidents – with almost 96,000 family violence callouts in the twelve months to March 2024.

That works out to one family violence incident every six minutes in Victoria.

Family violence offending in was up in by Casey 2.6 per cent, Cardinia had a 7.3 per cent increase, Knox had a 2.8 per cent rise, Maroondah had a slight increase at 0.3 per cent andYarra Ranges reported a 0.8 per cent increase.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Curran said the scourge of family violence has been felt across the nation this year, with a number of high-profile homicides involving partners and ex-partners who were predominantly men.

“The response to family violence remains a critical priority for Victoria Police. We have thousands of police working tirelessly to apprehend family violence perpetrators and bring them before the courts to ensure the safety of victim-survivors,” he said.

“We are also proactively engaging with perpetrators to ensure they are complying with intervention orders and bail conditions so that victim-survivors feel and are safe.”

Despite additional resources in place some local government areas in the outer east of Victoria are facing steady rises in youth crime.

Under 18-year-olds are committing crimes at rates that are rising at concerning levels with Victoria’s Crime Statistics Agency reporting a steady increase in the last year.

The state average increase of 20.1 per cent saw that crimes committed by children

aged 10 to 17 have risen to their highest levels since 2010.

Municipalities throughout the outer east have had varying changes, Knox has had youth crime continue to rise steadily in the last two years and has increased by 37.04 per cent for 2024.

Cardinia Shire andYarra Ranges have had significantly less with both regions reporting over ten per cent less crime than 2023.

Casey has risen by over 10 per cent and Maroondah hit a 16.54 per cent increasebringing it much closer to the state average for 2024.

With 22,298 incidents reported, Victoria Police said that repeat offending among child offenders remains a challenge for police with a 10.4 per cent increase in children aged 10 to 17 who are committing repeat crimes in Victoria.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Regional Operations Brett Curran said that crimes committed by children under the age of 18 continue to rise at concerning levels, with this cohort significantly overrepresented in serious and violent crimes such as aggravated burglaries, car thefts, high-risk driving and robberies.

“Victoria Police continues to invest significant resources towards curbing these offenders – arresting seven youth gang members, child burglars and underage car thieves each day over the past year as part of our two major youth-focused operations – Alliance and Trinity,” he said.

Operation Trinity alone sees 70 additional police including Dog Squad, Public Order Response and Air Wing rostered each night, on top of existing patrols, conducted every night in areas including Dandenong,

Cardinia, Casey, Knox, Maroondah, and the Yarra Ranges.

“There are a relatively small group of hardened child offenders causing significant community harm. This includes over 160 youth gang members who were arrested three or more times last year and another 38 who were arrested 10 or more times as part of Operation Alliance,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Curran said.

A recent major investigation by the Eastern Region Crime Squad led to 46 arrests in connection to over 140 cigarette burglaries and armed robberies at service stations, supermarkets, and tobacconists across Melbourne this year.

Many suburbs throughout Cardinia, Knox and the Yarra Ranges were affected by these as recently as late May.

While most arrests were children, four adults were also arrested.

Police will allege these men were the orchestrators behind the network of children aged 12- 17 who stole over $2 million of cigarettes and cash.

This was a highly significant result, and police will continue to target those behind this offending.

Police media have said that child and youth offenders are changing their offending habits, due to being targeted by police or if more lucrative offending opportunities arise.

“Victoria Police will continue to closely monitor new and emerging crime trends to ensure we always remain one step ahead of offenders to prevent crime and keep the community safe,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Curran said.

IN BRIEF

Cat burglars caught

Two men were arrested after attempting to burgle a pet store in Chirnside Park.

At about 1am on Wednesday 26 June, a 39-year-old Ringwood man and a 37-year-old Croydon man were caught breaking into the Chirnside Park shop.

Croydon Police Officers arrested them on scene. They were charged and bailed to appear at court.

School holiday road safety reminder

Victorians are being urged to be vigilant on the roads, slow down and drive to the conditions, over the state’s school break for winter holidays.

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) is reminding motorists to adjust their driving behaviours and travel at safe speeds to adapt to wetter, slipperier and darker conditions brought on by winter.

Tragically, 137 people have died on Victorian roads so for this year including 16 lives lost since the start of June.

Road safety authorities are concerned at an increase in motorbike rider and pedestrian deaths this year, with 34 motorcyclists killed (compared with 20 at the same time last year), and 23 pedestrians (compared with 12).

Last winter, 59 fatalities were recorded on Victorian roads, with eight motorcycle riders and 15 pedestrians killed.

Thirteen people, including five pedestrians, lost their lives during the 2023 winter school holiday period.

Motorists should use their headlights in low light and be vigilant of other road users – while people on two wheels or walking are encouraged to be visible through safe road positioning, wearing bright or reflective clothing, and always crossing at the safest point.

Trains make a return

Trains will resume running on the Lilydale Line on Friday 5 July after the removal of the Dublin Road, Ringwood East and Coolstore Road, Croydon level crossings.

Crews have been working around the clock since Friday 24 May in a final push to remove the two sets of boom gates and to build the two new stations. The new Ringwood East Station will open to passengers on Friday 5 July, with the new Croydon Station set to open in late July.

In Ringwood East, crews are continuing to lay tracks in the new 650m rail trench and build the new Ringwood East Station, which will feature two entrances accessible by lifts and stairs, CCTV and improved lighting, and more than 460 car parking spaces.

Crews will remain in the area after the construction blitz to finish works in the station precinct, including landscaping and car parking.

Work is also continuing to finish building Croydon’s new rail bridge and premium station, and to complete the new Kent Avenue to Lacey Street connection. This connection will also open on Friday 5 July, connecting Croydon’s town centre and providing motorists and pedestrians with a safer way to cross the rail line.

Work to complete the rest of the new Croydon Transport Hub, including the bus interchange, new road connections, landscaping, and walking and cycling paths will continue into spring.

Intersection of Cambridge and Swansea Roads,Montrose was the location of the latest collision. 415989 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

NEWS ‘System that doesn’t work’

By Mikayla van Loon

Yarra Ranges Council joined some of the state’s peak local government bodies in making a submission to a Victorian Legislative Council inquiry investigating municipal funding and service delivery.

The economy and infrastructure committee will look at all aspects of the funding models of councils but most importantly the cost shifts from state and federal governments, the ability of councils to meet core service delivery requirements, revenue structure and alternative funding models.

Agreeing unanimously at the Tuesday 25 June meeting to approve the submission, councillors Johanna Skelton and Fiona McAllister said they were pleased Yarra Ranges Council could voice some of its concerns.

“I’m glad the State Government is asking for this feedback and it’s great that Yarra Ranges can deliver our particular localised issues and suggestions into that submission, into that process,” Cr Skelton said.

“If you don’t have a voice, nothing changes,” Cr McAllister said, despite expressing her somewhat lacklustre feeling towards the inquiry’s outcomes.

“This submission is important, but our ongoing, louder and ever strained voice about a system that just doesn’t work to get money to community in the way that it should.”

Some of the key figures in the submission outline the funding shortfalls the council experienced in the 2023-24 financial year.

It highlighted that from State Government funding only 65 per cent of the actual cost for the school crossing supervisor program was covered. Only 26 per cent of the actual immunisation costs was covered through State funding.

Similarly only 35 per cent of maternal and child health costs were funded.

With changes to the waste management

services, the council’s submission identified that it would cost $1.8 million annually for litter and waste collection from public spaces, street, footpath and drain cleaning, as well as graffiti removal and other services

Despite wanting to avoid any rate cap exemptions, the council’s submission expressed fears of having to do so in the future to meet these demands.

The council submission addressed its estimated $1.5 billion worth of ageing assets, including the road network, drainage systems and community facilities which are no longer fit for purpose.

It also noted the limited access to regional funding streams, given the metropolitan classification, the increased natural disaster risk and the growing visitor economy, with the tourist rate expected to double to nine million per year by 2033.

“If we consider the revenue sources of local government and rates, for most councils, cer-

tainly metro councils like ourselves, is about 70 ish per cent of our revenue,” Cr McAllister said.

“Our current model relies on us being given grant funding to deliver infrastructure projects, to deliver recurrent programs such as our work supporting Aged and Disability Services. The funding model is flawed.”

The inquiry submission makes the case that grant funding for Greater Melbourne has decreased by 43 per cent, while the Yarra Ranges has seen a 63 per cent reduction in eligibility.

Key concerns of the council, given the unique tourist destination of the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, as well as the growing environmental risks, were highlighted as a balancing act.

“Ultimately, every year we have less money to respond to emergencies, money that we used to get from fires, floods, storms, dissipates year to year,” Cr McAllister said.

“We see additional taxes and levies applied,

for example, the short term stay levy which is going to add another level of taxation to short term accommodation across Victoria. Will we see any of that to support the challenges we face about balancing the needs of community tourism and supporting housing availability?”

The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) and Local Government Finance Professionals (FinPro) also made submissions on behalf of the sector.

Cr McAllister said all the council asks for is a “sustainable, equitable” funding model to ensure primary services and functions of local government can be met to provide the best for the community.

“We don’t need more checks and balances…We just need money to spend on what matters most,” she said.

“I’m not going to hold my breath but I do think we need to continue to have a very clear and very loud voice on a system that’s not working at the moment.”

Action Plan 2024-25 endorsed by Yarra Ranges Council

By Dongyun Kwon

As Yarra Ranges Council (YRC) is approaching its final year for delivery of the 2021-25 Council Plan, councillors endorsed the updated plan for the 2024-25 period, Council Action Plan 2024-25.

Minor revisions to the wording of three major initiatives and four actions were proposed for the 2024-25 period.

Yarra Ranges mayor Sophie Todorov said the action plan is well underway towards completion which is aligned to current community needs and allocated within the 202425 budget.

“Our community engagement has already commenced to develop the next 2025-29 Council Plan and I fully support endorsing this updated Yarra Ranges Council Action Plan for the 2024-25 period,” she said.

Yarra Ranges Councillors endorsed Council Action Plan 2024-25 at the latest council meeting on 25 June. Picture: ON FILE

The Council Action Plan 2024-25 contains the activities that YRC will complete to deliver on the Council Plan 2021-25 set up to achieve five goals; Connected and healthy

community, Quality infrastructure and liveable place, Protected and enhanced natural environment, Vibrant economy, agriculture and tourism, and High performing organisation.

Across the major initiatives in the Council Action Plan, a range of social and other health outcomes and environmental impacts will be achieved.

The council will improve Aboriginal health and wellbeing by providing a range of support to Oonah Health and Community Services Aboriginal Corporation to establish the Healesville Belonging Place, an integrated Aboriginal health facility.

It will also ensure the plants, animals and ecologies of Yarra Ranges, which the community values so much, are supported and retained alongside the community in healthy landscapes by implementing the Nature Plan

along with reducing the shire’s ecological footprint through its commitment to shift to sourcing 100 per cent renewable energy and help the communities to thrive in a changing climate through adaptive, resilient and regenerative programs and projects.

Lyster Ward councillor Johanna Skelton said she was amazed to see the implementation of the plans that YRC had listed down four years ago when she first came onto the council.

“It is very satisfying to be here and see the last year of that term and all of those points of feedback that the community put into that plan and those 120 plus services are still a focus of the organisation,” she said.

“It’s great to see the progression on it and I hope any community members who read it feel the same way.”

With a righteous King, Jesus the Son of God, ruling with justice, putting down violence and oppression, providing safe housing and a peaceful, healthy way of life for all.

Learn more of what is promised in the Bible and how you can be ready to take part.

Send for free booklet

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Yarra Valley Christadelphians PO Box 516 YARRA GLEN 3775

Email: yvc.vic@gmail.com

Yarra Ranges Councillors approved a submission to be lodged with the Inquiry into Local Government funding and services.

ON FILE

NEWS Building dreams approved

By Mikayla van Loon

The construction of 11 dwellings in Lilydale’s newest emerging housing estate have been approved by Yarra Ranges Council, being called a “reasonable example of townhouse development”.

Known as Wynnlea, the estate runs behind Petstock and Supercheap Auto off Maroondah Highway, running parallel to the Warburton Rail Trail.

The development, led by Westrock under John Delany, has seen the first stage of houses be built at Janson Place with this further 11 homes requiring council approval because the budget is over $3 million.

Representing the developer at the Tuesday 25 June council meeting, Millar Merrigan director Simon Merrigan said this was an example of meeting the newly appointed housing targets.

“Amidst the housing crisis with ambitious targets for housing, which I know the council’s aware of from the recent adoption of the housing strategy, and the even more ambitious targets the State Government is pushing for, this is a really good site to be helping to address those targets,” he said.

Each house has been proposed as a two storey with either, two, three or four bedrooms, and open space in the form of a balcony or ground level garden.

Being a residential growth zone, built form does not need “to protect and enhance existing neighbourhood character”, instead it can “effectively [establish] a new character for the area” but must meet the Yarra Ranges MultiResidential Guidelines for Townhouses according to the council’s report.

A section of the site fell under the inundation overlay extending from the north-west corner of the site to the Janson Place frontage, but “the site has been filled to a minimum 600mm above the one per cent Average Ex-

ceedance Probability (AEP) flood level, negating flooding concerns”.

Yarra Ranges Council did however, place conditions on the drainage and easement to address concerns relating to flooding, in particular a maintenance schedule.

Quarterly maintenance by the council’s team and the assurance that the overland flow and easement would not be obstructed or obscured was essential to these conditions.

“The proposed permit conditions which provide for what I call a failsafe or a belts and braces approach for providing for overland flow of the site if there is a failure effectively of the drainage system,” Mr Merrigan said.

“Westrock are well credentialed to be able

We’re extending our hours on Wednesday 17th July to answer your questions about the Victorian Home Fund (VHF) because we’re here to help you on your home ownership journey.

to deliver that through the integrated development they’re proposing on this site and they accept those conditions.”

Mr Merrigan said that recent works had also addressed some “infrastructure that had contributed to problems with flooding”.

The council’s built environment and infrastructure team confirmed works had improved the wing wall and grate of the Nelson Road drain that passes through the site but further works were still to be carried out.

“We are also undertaking vegetation removal works along the watercourse upstream. So this will help minimise a lot of the debris that comes in blocking the inlet structure,” they said.

“We are also raising the band adjacent to the inlet structure and to ensure that the excess flows aren’t diverted into the downstream properties.”

Councillor Tim Heenan put forward the motion to approve the planning application but said it was not without initial concern.

“This is obviously something that has been reasonably well thought out but the grave concerns I had were for the drainage and right from the get go,” he said.

“There have been changes and there are more to come. We have substantial flow coming overland and obviously underground from that substantial drain from Maroondah Highway.

“We now have a regime in place where that drainage is going to be maintained [under] a substantially better maintenance regime [than what was] before.”

With the “stringent conditions” Cr Heenan said he was “now convinced” that both the developer and the council’s responsibilities had been outlined clearly.

Cr Jim Child said he “wholeheartedly [agreed]” with Cr Heenan that an “appropriate maintenance regime” had been included but said in terms of delegations, this application shouldn’t have needed to come to the chamber.

“For this work, the amount of money for this developer is $3,519,320, just a half a million dollars over the threshold,” he said.

“If you look at this application, it shouldn’t even have come to the chamber.What time has been added to the application process to bring this into this chamber? I believe that the applicant would have the planning permit in their hand if it wasn’t covered under this chamber.”

Cr Child said he had “confidence in the developer” given the “outstanding” work shown building homes in Yarra Junction.

The approval was carried unanimously.

A further 11 houses have been approved for Janson Place, Lilydale. 415990

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Barak-ing for new name

By Callum Ludwig

The Voices 4 Casey group has put forward a petition for the federal electorate of Casey to have a new name as part of the Victorian federal redistribution process.

With the electorate almost certain to have survived being abolished, calls for it to be renamed have ramped up after the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) acknowledged but chose not to act on initial requests in its draft redistribution.

Voices 4 Casey President Dr Ani Wierenga said what they’ve noticed is that the current name is confusing and doesn’t reflect the electorate itself.

“One of their own rules for the way that electorates are named is that they shouldn’t be confusing and that they shouldn’t be conflicting with each other, but what we have heard in our listening process is that when you talk about living in Casey, people will often think immediately of the City of Casey and the City of Casey is not even within the electorate of Casey,” she said.

“Lord [Richard] Casey didn’t live here either, so it is a point of inclusion and a point of clarity that we’re looking for here,”

“It’d be great if people could identify with their electorate, would be great if people could actually know that they’re in the electorate and while that name is replicating a city that’s close by, it is quite confusing for people.”

In the two most recent steps in the redistribution process, the suggestions and comments on suggestions, there was a total of 17 individuals or groups who proposed that the name of the electorate be changed to Barak in honour of the last traditional ngurungaeta of the Wurundjeri-willam clan William Barak. There has been no suggestions or comments calling for the name of Casey to be retained.

Dr Wierenga said the name of Barak is certainly something that theVoices 4 Casey group

can put their shoulder to and let the AEC know that the issue is not dead and worth revisiting.

“Where there is change, there is opportunity and we know that there’s been a groundswell of people putting forth suggestions and ideas and that there is a fairly strong community sentiment behind the change,” she said.

“Of course we would need to liaise with the local elders and ask permission, keeping that conversation live and engaged with our local Indigenous groups is important, but certainly it’s one of the options that seems incredibly

sensible because Barak was anchored within this area, very broadly respected and it seems to be a really sensible way ahead,”

“What I’m hearing loudest from the feedback that’s come in is that people are really wanting something that represents the area and that that’s the strongest point, it needs to have some meaning for local people.

Yarra Ranges Council and the Millgrove Resident’s Action Group are other organisations to lend their support to the Barak name while current Casey MP Aaron Violi also told

the Star Mail in June that his office had noticed the confusion with the City of Casey that Barak would be ‘appropriate’ name if the AEC decided to change it in the future given Barak’s ‘connection to our community and the strong Indigenous community.’

Richard Casey is a former Governor-General of Australia who represented the seats of Corio and La Trobe during his political career, eventually settling and living on a farm in Berwick. He never lived nor represented what is now the Casey electorate.

Voices 4 Casey’s petition had 185 signatures at the time of print, with the deadline for objections to the AEC coming down at 6pm on on Friday 28 June.

Dr Wierenga said alongside the petition, Voices 4 Casey is building on their work ahead of the 2025 election, buoyed by the likelihood of the electorate not being abolished and commitments of campaign funding from Climate 200 and other sources being confirmed.

“There’s something rather wonderful about having an electorate that crosses from hills to valleys to farms to suburbs and encompasses all of those different slices of Australia, so it’s really good to hear we will be able to grow that and we’re wanting to express a warm welcome to those who might be coming across to be part of this electorate,” she said.

“There’s some really lovely networks forming, some really good activities, some really good conversations about the things that matter to people it’s really nice to be able to continue to build on that work and to be able to reach it out just a little bit further,”

“There’s that wonderful promise of funding there from Climate 200 and it is accompanied by some other lovely donations from a range of sources and that’s heartening because it takes a lot of energy to mobilise a community and to think about representation.”

Recognising William Barak has emerged as a popular alternative to Casey for the name of the electorate. Picture: ON FILE

Yarra Valley & Croydon Toyota

Aussies chill on cold home

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Have you been feeling cold this winter at the comfort of your own home? You are not alone.

Recent research from RMIT professors have found houses in Australia can be extremely cold due to an inadequate insulation and because houses here are typically bigger compared houses in other countries - which makes heaters ineffective and costly to run.

RMIT School of Property, Construction and Project Management and Senior Lecturer Dr Nicola Willand said Australians build some of the largest homes in the world, and bigger areas translates into higher energy demand.

“Australian homes tend to be uninsulated, draughty and existing homes often fitted with inefficient heaters,” Dr Willand said.

“A lot of our homes are older, they were built before the minimum insulation requirements came into effect - they all have single glazing, with little or no lace on the walls or in the ceiling and this means that warmth dissipates quickly once heating is switched off, air movement between heated areas and the colder walls and windows make people feel uncomfortable, and it makes heating very ineffective and expensive.”

“Even though new homes are more energy efficient, central heating in these large homes can be too expensive if householders are burdened with high mortgage payments - restricting heating to one or two rooms is difficult, as heating control is limited, with many homes having a maximum of two zones to switch on or off.”

While a lot of migrants find Australian winter icy cold, even those who may come from cold countries like Canada, but cold homes in Australia are considered normal.

Dr Willand said in their research, people not only mentioned how cold their homes were, but they would also compare the cold with someone else’s home they knew.

“Coping practices such as wearing coats and onesies are socially acceptable practices,” she said.

There are many risks associated with cold

FLORES

homes that many people are unaware of.

“Keeping warm advice that focuses on body warmth ignores the risks of cold indoor air for respiratory and heart health, infections and mould,” she said.

“For renters, minimum rental standards in Victoria call for one heater in the living [area].

“This leaves bedrooms cold and at risk of mould, or tenants must use expensive portable electric heaters.

States and territories are merging slowly towards improving the basic quality and performance of rental housing, and Victoria is leading the way in Australia.

The state government proposed new minimum requirements for rental properties and rooming or boarding houses in June 2024, these changes would be phased in from October 2025.

The research reports that the National Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS), which governs the home energy star ratings for new dwellings, assumes that living room heaters are switched off between midnight and 7am - unless homes are well insulated and draught proofed, the warmth will slowly dissipate and result in cold kitchens and living areas in the morning.

NatHERS also assumes a heating thermostat setting in bedrooms of 15°C, which is lower than the 18°C recommended by the World Health Organisation, between midnight and 7am in the morning.

“The NatHERS assumptions suggest that being cold at 7am, when most of us are getting ready for work and school, is acceptable,” she said.

“By contrast, energy efficiency ratings in other countries will assume heating in all rooms and at all hours of the day and night.”

“That ‘chill in the morning’ is a certainly a widely shared experience in Australia – but it shouldn’t be.”

RMIT School of Property, Construction, and Project Management Associate Professor Dr Trivess Moore was also one of the researchers for this report and he said houses built before the early 1990s and even early 2000s fall short of the design and performance requirements needed to keep houses warm in winter and cool in summer.

Since the 1990s Australia has had require-

ments for minimum energy efficiency elements within dwellings.

There has been a slight improvement for new builds as the new housing in Victoria needs to be built to a seven-star standard, instead of six-stars which was the old standard.

He said there’s good news that we can make our homes warmer for a cheaper cost through retrofitting.

“Retrofit includes low-cost options like sealing up gaps and cracks, and adding or improving insulation in the ceiling, walls and underfloor – through to more significant changes like installing double glazed windows,” he said.

For existing housing, there are a lot of things that either owners or landlords can do to improve the quality and performance of existing housing.

“The first thing that I would recommend to people is to go out and have an independent assessment of your dwelling done, there are various programmes out there that people could go through, for example the scorecard assessment - which was developed by the Victorian Government,” Dr Moore said.

“In terms of renters, there is limitations in what a renter can do to a rental property because of the way our rental laws are in Victoria, but there are some things that are nonpermanent changes a renter could try to do; including using some things like bubble wrap on windows that could be taken up and down, making sure they clean their heating systems or asking the landlords to have them serviced.”

There are rebates available in many states to help reduce costs of retrofit - this includes for landlords and tenants.

“While there is some financial support to help households retrofit, we need various levels of government to continue to find ways to make sure all households can access this support,” Dr Moore said.

“We also need to ensure we have a strong retrofit industry to do the work. We need to complete deep retrofit of almost 50 dwellings each hour until 2050 if we are to retrofit the existing housing stock.”

Youth have a say on anti-vaping campaigns

By Jamie Padgett

With the rise in popularity of vaping over the past couple years, certain strategies have been put in place to prevent the introduction of vapes into a youth setting.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, more than one in five (21.7 percent) of 18-24 year olds and seven to eight percent of 15-17 year olds have used a vape at least once, with expected under-reporting as this was collected from parents and guardians in the house.

A 15-year-old Dandenong Ranges based student said this was a fair assumption and agreed with the significant under-reporting due to young people vaping without the knowledge of their parental figure.

“Recently lots of people are switching how they consume nicotine, like zyns or even switching back to cigarettes, but still a good number of people vape.”

Schools are an obviously targeted location for anti vaping campaigns, seeing posters, speeches, and integration into the curriculum.

Lung Foundation Australia released a booklet aimed to inform educators on the correct way to implement anti vaping methods.

It explained the consumerism and targeted marketing of bright colours and exciting flavours as well as the potential dangers within the chemical content.

The booklet also went over various strategies it recommends, such as a unit in health classes, interactive questioning, and general language use.

One thing that was stressed was the importance of avoiding accusatory language or criticism, which could force students who vape into a defensive position.

Comparisons to other substances like tobacco were encouraged to be drawn, an in-

Picture: UNSPLASH

terestingly doubled-edged sword.

Students said that it opened their minds to the consequences as most know the devastating effects of tobacco, however, if they choose to see the differences between the two, it could paint vaping as the less severe option.

They also went on to mention the impact on “those young people who are already nicotine addicted”. opening the risky task of deciding which students are already vaping without being biased or criticising.

The Dandenong Ranges student said they had seen evidence of this around their school, and also noted the implementation of posters.

“It depends on what school you go to, but usually they have a session telling you how bad it is, and there’s posters around the school about it, and obviously the vape detectors in the bathroom,” they said.

An interesting example of such posters, they said, was the “Do You Know What You Are Vaping?” approach.

The student said these depicted a hazardous yet common chemical-based substance

such as nail polish, bug spray, or weed killer, spliced together with the head of a vape and placed under the question.

These have been placed in schools across the country, in states New SouthWales,Western Australia, and Victoria, if not others.

Other students noticed a fairly vocal response to these, one of slight mockery.

They explained that people would sometimes point at the poster and tell their friend “you know you’re vaping nail polish?” in an ironic, satirical tone.

This was because it failed to depict real life scenarios and didn’t show any of the reality or side effects of vaping.

They noted that the removal of consequence destroys the incentive to stop, defeating the purpose of the poster.

When asked about the correct response to vaping and creating an anti vaping campaign, the Dandenong Ranges student said these posters were “going in the right direction” but there is “only so much they can do”.

“If someone has been doing it for a while, they aren’t going to stop because a poster says it has the same chemicals as bug spray.”

In the eyes of the target audience, a more effective approach was an ad featuring a young girl vaping in the bathroom with her friend, a very accurate depiction of modern vaping.

After a small mishap, the vape ends up being dropped in the used toilet and overcome with her nicotine addiction, the girl reaches in to fetch it.

The scene is reminiscent of the film Trainspotting, in which Ewan McGregor’s character goes through a similar motion to retrieve his misplaced opioids in the bathroom.

Another element of the ad was the clear look of disgust on the friend’s face, which clearly outlined the outside view of a nico-

tine addiction as well as the sad situation it leaves you in.

Something to be taken into account is the differences in creating a poster compared to creating a video advertisement but from a young person’s perspective certain key aspects are clearly lacking in one as opposed to the other.

Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVIC) gave a checklist it said it would like to see followed when anti vaping campaigns are created.

Media and communications coordinator Katia Pellicciotta said these recommendations also formed part of the YACVIC’s submission to the inquiry into the vaping and tobacco controls in Victoria.

“[It must] be co-designed by young people with diversely lived experience, use factual, realistic, accessible, and youth-friendly information without imposing judgement or stigma as to why someone uses vapes,” she said.

“[And] acknowledge young people’s experiences of vaping, including perceived benefits and negative aspects, and take a harm minimisation approach that equips young people to make informed decisions about vaping, including information about health risks, peer pressure and how to access support.”

The Youth Affairs Council acknowledged that an issue of the willingness of certain people to come forward could pose problems but that the aim was to spread awareness while simultaneously bringing in more people with more opinions and backgrounds to consider.

Combined with the new laws surrounding the purchasing of vapes, revised and improved forms of anti vaping campaigns are stepping towards combating this issue, especially in a youth environment.

Most homes in Australia are cold due to poor insulation with inefficient heaters that can be expensive to run.

Picture: UNSPLASH, CHARLIE

Anti-vaping campaigns targeting young people have been deemed somewhat ineffective in sending the right message.

COMMUNITY COURSE GUIDE

Plenty to do at the House

Lilydale Community House has a great program coming up in Term 3. We have a few new classes as well as our regular activities. The House welcomes people to come along and join in with others in our fun activities, whether it’s just for the company or to learn a skill or to try something new. Many of our activities are low cost or no cost to make them as accessible as possible.

New on Tuesdays will be Winter Warm Up, Table Tennis and Beginner’s Line dancing. On Wednesdays will be Meditation and on Thursdays will be Introduction to Watercolour and Mixed Media Painting.

Due to popular demand, we will be running two courses of Mosaic on Saturdays.

Alford Legal will also be offering free 30-minute consults on 6 August and 10 Sep-

tember, between 10am-12pm. You must book in by phoning us on 7036 3813. Hearing Australia will also be offering free hearing checks on Monday 12 August between 10.30am1.30pm which you will also need to book by phoning us.

Our regular social activities will continue, with Soup & Stories, Painting, Women’s Walk on during the week, as well as our regular Qi Gong, Guitar, German, Cooking for One, Sing-

Lilydale Community House

Mondays 15 July–16 September

Paint, Draw, Create, Explore

Time: 10.30am–12.30pm

Cost: Gold Coin Donation

Have a dabble in painting, drawing, collage or mindful colouring in a relaxed, non judgemental space. Explore ideas in art and craft with others.

Soup & Stories

Time: 11am–1pm Cost: Free

Join others to learn to make a different soup each week and enjoy a chat while eating together. Recipes are provided to replicate at home.

Qi Gong and Tai Chi

Time: 6.30–8pm Cost: $15 a session *pay on the night*

Qi Gong is a system of coordinated bodyposture and movement, breathing and meditation which promotes physical and mental health. This class will also include Tai Chi practice. Peter has been teaching these techniques for several years.

Tuesdays 16 July–17 September

Winter Warm Up

Time: 11am–1pm

Cost: Gold coin donation

Winter can be hard keeping warm. Why not join others on Tuesdays at the House for a cuppa, warmth and conversation. There is a book library and puzzles available too!

Try Table Tennis

Time: 1–3pm

Cost: Gold coin donation

Have you ever wanted to try table tennis? Why not give it a go? We have 2 new tables just waiting to be used!

Beginner’s Linedancing

Time: 4.30–5.30pm

Cost: $10 a session ($100 for term)

Join Duree to learn to linedance in a fun and relaxed class, with some laughter thrown in.

Beginner’s Guitar

Time: 6–7pm

Cost: $200 for 10 week Term

Have you always wanted to learn how to play guitar? Then this is the class for you! Join Michael, starting with the basics of guitar.

Wednesdays 17 July–18 September

Beginners German

Time: 6.30–8pm

Cost: $100 for 10 week Term

Want to travel? Converse with friends and family in German? Join Eva to learn basic German in a small group.

Thursdays

18 July–19 September

Step & Connect Women’s Social Walks

Time: 9.30–11am Cost: Free Facilitated by Inspiro, this weekly walk welcomes women to join a relaxed walk around the area followed by a cuppa back at the House. Meet at Lilydale CH. Introduction to Watercolour and Mixed Media Painting (4 weeks)

25 July–15 August

Time: 10.30am–12.30pm

Cost: $100 for four week course

Have you wanted to learn painting techniques? Learn watercolour and other mixed media painting with Jill in this 4 week course.

Cooking for One (5 weeks)

July 25, August 1, 8, 15, 22

Time: 11am–1pm Cost: $50

ing and Exercise for Older Adults. If you want something to do, feeling lonely or just want to have a cuppa with someone else, you can try the Talking Cafe on Wednesdays at Monty’s Cafe in Marketplace, Lilydale at 2pm and join Gary or Janice for an hour. For enquiries phone 7036 6813 or visit our website at: www.lilydalech.org.au. We are located at 7 Hardy Street, Lilydale.

Fridays

19 July–20 September

Time: 11–11.45am

Here at Lilydale Community House we offer a variety of classes and social activities which vary from term to term. Most are low or no cost. Here are our activities for TERM 3: Talking Cafe

Meditation

Time: 6.30–7.30pm Cost: $5 per session

There are many forms of meditation, the focus of this class is to improve your overall wellbeing. Guided by Silvia, a qualified meditation teacher with over 30 years experience.

Join Sarah to learn how to cook easily just for one person. Make the meals each week, and eat together what you have created. You wil be supplied with recipes each week to take home.

The Singing Circle

Time: 1.30–3pm Cost: $10 a session *pay on the day*

Join Barb for singing and laughter each week and experience the joy of singing because you just want to!

Exercise for Older Adults

Cost: $100 for 10 week term or $10 a session.

Join Abi in this 45 minute session for older adults to strengthen your body through the right exercise.

Saturdays

Mosaic Workshops - 2 options of 4-week workshops

Course 1: July 20, 27, August 3, 10

Course 2: August 24, 31, September 7, 14

Time: 9am–12.00pm

(NOTE all classes are 3 hours each)

Cost: Each 4-week course is $80.

Very limited places.

Learn the basics of mosaic with Leoni and create some great pieces in the process for your home or your garden.

Wednesdays @ Monty’s Cafe in Marketplace, Lilydale

Do you feel lonely? Would you like to sit and have a cuppa with someone and a chat? Why not try the "Talking Cafe" at 2pm. Join Janice or Gary and others!

Cooking for one classes will be back.

Partake in some painting at Lilydale Community House.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Healesville to Mt Everest

Montrose resident Alison Bowen, an Ambulance Victoria advanced life support paramedic, has been working her way through the Seven Summits Challenge, climbing the highest peak on each of the seven continents. Mt Everest in Asia was her fifth summit out of seven.

Ms Bowen said the experience of reaching the summit of Everest was “breathtaking”.

“Reaching the summit was absolutely surreal,” she said.

“You see so many documentaries and photos online but once you’re there, it’s amazing to see it all with your own eyes and know you’re standing above the 8000-metre-tall mountains around you.”

She and her team landed in Nepal on 3 April and started acclimatising, trekking and doing rotations up the mountain, and finally stepped on the top of Everest on 21 May.

The paramedic did about nine months of training beforehand, which helped her physically get ready.

“I probably started maybe nine months out, but then had a really focused training program from about six months out,” Ms Bowen said.

“I did a lot of training in the hills, particularly two hills around Healesville, Mt St Leonard and Mt Juliet. I’ve done lots of climbs up those with the backpack.

“Then, I did a lot of hiking around the Dandenong Ranges. Lots of really long training sessions, up to eight to 10 hours a day, walking around hills with a heavy backpack on.”

She also did strength training programs in the gym as well as treadmill and stairmaster training.

Ms Bowen said although she prepared herself physically, she found the journey mentally and emotionally challenging.

“Not just being away from your family and friends, but also there’s a lot of danger involved in it,” she said.

“There’s always the prospect of yourself dying, this would put my family through an imaginable pain which would have made the climb even more difficult.

“It’s also quite a harsh environment to be in for a prolonged amount of time, the higher you climb, the more difficult breathing becomes.

“It’s really beautiful being in the mountains, and the Himalayas are spectacular, but when you’re there for an extended period of time, you get a bit emotionally and psychologically tired.”

Ms Bowen repeatedly told herself the same quote over and over again in order to keep herself going, ‘doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will’.

“When there is a lot of danger and risk involved, it can be easy to doubt yourself but I didn’t want to turn around just based on doubt,” she said.

“I just kept telling myself to keep going until

I fail and I didn’t fail in the end because I didn’t allow my doubt to take over me.

“Just knowing that it was a once in a lifetime opportunity, it really made it count and put all my effort into it.”

Ms Bowen conquered Mt Kilimanjaro in Africa in 2008, Mt Elbrus in Russia, the highest peak in Europe, in 2013, Mt Aconcagua in Argentina, the highest peak in South America, in 2020 and Mt Kosciuszko in Australia in 2007 and 2022.

She failed to reach the top of Mt Aconcagua in 2018 and tried once more in 2020 and successfully stepped on the summit.

“The conditions were really tough [in my first attempt], so they had a lot more snow than usual and the accumulation of the tough conditions just wore me down a bit,” Ms Bowen said.

“So, by the time it came to summit day, I just wasn’t travelling as fast as the group needed to

go, I wasn’t feeling sick but I just got to a point of accumulated fatigue and tiredness.

“A few of us got turned around and then probably about half the group went on to the summit.”

The experience as a paramedic, especially the night shift experience, helped her with mountaineering.

On the summit night for Mt Everest, her team left at 8.30pm and got to the summit at 8am.

“It was like a night shift. I’ve done plenty of night shifts. I felt like the shift work helped me be okay with being awake all night and walking all through the night,” the paramedic said.

“As a shift worker, I have a lot of weekdays off whereas most people don’t have weekdays off, so it’s great to have another activity or sport that I can do on my own.

“It’s hard to commit to being in a team

sometimes when you do shift work, but having a sport like mountaineering or trekking, you can do that anytime, any day of the week with or without other people.”

Ms Bowen said she has learnt she is capable of so much more than she thinks throughout the Seven Summits Challenge.

“Everest was always the pinnacle, the hardest thing that I thought I could do, and it was absolutely the hardest thing I’ve ever done but now I’ve done it,” she said.

“I know I can do that and I can do more.

“I think a lot of people sell themselves short and think that they couldn’t do the hardest thing that they can imagine but I think they can!”

As part of the Seven Summits Challenge, Ms Bowen is planning to conquer Denali in Alaska and Vinson Massif in Antarctica after a well-deserved rest.

Alison Bowen with her friend Sarah Osbourne at the summit of Kosciusko in October 2023. Alison Bowen and James Mansell (a climber from the UK who was on her team).

Alison Bowen at the top of Mt Everest.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Alison Bowen at the summit of Aconcagua in 2020.

Alison Bowen in Ambulance Victoria uniform.

A Healesville paramedic has conquered the summit of Mount Everest, as DONGYUN KWON reports.

Simulating fire learning

Around 60 of CFA’s Planned Burn Taskforce recently gathered at the Victorian Emergency Management Institute (VEMI) in Mount Macedon to gain expertise from key industry leaders.

The taskforce, made up of more than 700 volunteers, including dual brigade member for both Chirnside Park and Yarra Glen Angela Fleay, were offered an expression of interest to partake in the weekend (15-16 June) to enhance their capabilities in fuel management.

CFA Planned Burn Taskforce Support Officer Kerryn Tait said it was a positive and informative weekend that saw a number of guest speakers interact with the attentive group.

“The main aim of these workshops is to educate our taskforce members more about why we do fuel reduction activities, how they happen and how they are contributing,” Kerryn said.

“We had the likes of CFA Senior Research Officer Rachel Bessell and Senior Research

Scientist Thomas Duff discuss grass and cropland research which provided a deep dive into control lines, ignition patterns and fuel loads.

“Something we’re also trying to get on the front foot of is safety on the fireground, so we had Health and Safety Manager Noble Yamak discuss the importance of reporting.

“The simulation table drew the most attention, as vegetation management team leader Dan Idczak presented a fire scenario on the simulator. A map was used on a table and members built the landscape, set wind and temperatures and ran through the behaviour of a moving fire.”

For five-year Planned Burn Taskforce member, Angela, the weekend was a fantastic learning opportunity that covered many aspects, while she thoroughly enjoyed hearing of Deputy Chief Officer Alen Slijepcevic’s stories from his trek to Everest Base Camp.

“My favourite presentation was the one on human factors that cause good leaders to

Pay pet registration fee or expect a council visit

Yarra Ranges Council pet registration renewals were due in April 2024, with all cats and dogs over the age of three months needing to be registered with Council and microchipped.

The vast majority of pet owners have renewed their registrations and the council thanks the community for their ongoing commitment to responsible pet ownership. Registration fees go towards funding the following services:

· Payment of the annual State Government Levy

· Lifetime Pet Registration Tag including free replacement tags

· Reuniting lost animals

· Off-lead dog parks

· Investigation of animal related complaints and compliance issues

· Cat Trap programs

· Providing Council’s responsible pet ownership programs

· Supporting Council’s Foster Carer Registration Program

The council’s Community Safety Team

is now turning their attention to the small number of pet owners who have not been able to complete the process this year.

After a sustained communication campaign of text messages, emails and phone calls, officer will now be door knocking residents and visiting recreational areas to provide pet ownership education, information packs and possibly progress enforcement actions. This can include a $385 fine per unregistered pet.

Pet owners can access relevant information and register their animals at any time through the Council’s website at yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Environment/Pets-andanimals/Pet-registration

For residents who no longer have a pet that was previously registered, they can update their record/s online at yarraranges. vic.gov.au/Environment/Pets-and-animals/Pet-registration/Cancel-pet-registration to ensure that they do not receive any further requests for registration fees.

Residents with any queries should contact Council’s Community Safety Team on 1300 368 333.

make poor decisions, led by CFA Commander Safer Together and Planned Burn Taskforce Manager Tim McKern. It was all about command and control and decision-making processes,” Angela said.

“Understanding that sometimes what others perceive as a bad decision is actually a decision made for the right reasons, and then learning to adapt if something doesn’t go to plan was incredibly invaluable.”

Angela turns out for Chirnside Park as a daytime responder, but also dual responds with Yarra Glen Fire Brigade, managing commitments around her work as a pastry cook.

“We’re really lucky to have such passionate leaders around us. We’re all very supportive of each other and we love running into each other when out on strike teams,” Angela said.

“Learning more about the importance of planned burns and what they do for the environment and the protection of properties is really important to us.

“It’s all the work that goes in before the fire season that can make such a huge difference and we really enjoy contributing to the prevention process so we’re ready for when a fire hits.”

Kerryn describes the Planned Burn Taskforce as one big family with infectious positivity, a mentality that is highly regarded throughout the organisation.

“They are a fun bunch who enjoy being together. They’re very social and are all very likeminded.The culture amongst the group is very strong and admired broadly,” Kerryn said.

“They get so much out of interacting and working with each other right across the state and workshops like these are a great way to thank them for their efforts over the burn season.

“The environment is quite different to their work with their brigades, it’s burning in a safer and more controlled situation, and they genuinely want to be involved.”

Yarra Ranges Council.

The simulation table was a popular demonstration for the group of CFA volunteers.

Pictures: CFA A group of taskforce members gather around the simulation table.

CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar 3 Meadowgate Drive

CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Caltex Safeway 239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK EG Fuelco Service Station Chirnside Park Shopping Cr Little Chipping Drive, 241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Chirnside Park Country Club 68 Kingswood Drive

CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar 158 Nangathan Way

CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar 11 The Mall

KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Churinga SC, Russo Place

KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Canterbury Road Kilsyth

KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette Unit 7/87 Colchester Road

LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC 33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC 51-59 Anderson Street

LILYDALE Woolworths Supermarket Marketplace, 33 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale Village Castella Street & Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre 7 Hardy Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre 1 Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station 473 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale 346 Main Street

LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths 31 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE BP Service Station 87 Warburton Highway

LILYDALE Shell Service Station 469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE 7 - Eleven Lilydale Cnr Maroondah Highway & Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE Coles Express 469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe 251 Main Street

LILYDALE Round Bird Can’t Fly 170 Main Street

LILYDALE The Lilydale General 110 Beresford Road

LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery 96 Main Street

LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe 178 Main Street

LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe 222 Main Street

LILYDALE Gracious Grace Castella Street

ILYDALE Melba Coffee House 33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies 7/75 Cave Hill Road

ILYDALE Point of View Cafe Lilydale Lakeside - Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE Freda’s Cafe 2 Clarke Street

ILYDALE Barry Plant Real Estate 88 Main Street

LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate 164 Main Street

LILYDALE Hello Harry 245 Main Street

LILYDALE Noel Jones Real Estate 281 Main Street

ILYDALE Professionals Real Estate 111-113 Main Street

ILYDALE Simple Eats 1 Industrial Park Drive

LILYDALE Mc Donalds Restaurant Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Olinda Creek Hotel Maroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Crown Hotel Maroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street

MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road

MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street

MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent

MOUNT EVELYN Red Robyn Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent

MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road

MOUNT EVELYN Bendigo Bank 2/35-39 Wray Cres

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket 916 Mt Dandenong Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket 15 Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Bendigo Bank Unit 19/66 - 74 Brice Ave

MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar 38 Bellara Dive

MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart 108 Hayrick Lane

MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark 103 Cardigan Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Express 2 Cambridge Road

MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real Estate Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK L J Hooker Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK Mc Donalds Restaurant Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road

MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale 138 York Road

WANDIN NORTH Wandin Newsagency Shop 2 /18 Union Road

Bakery rises to the top

By Callum Ludwig

One of theYarra Ranges’ favourite bakeries has been firing its ovens up with pride this week after getting some recognition for a number of its customer favourites.

The Wandin Bakery entered into the Baking Association of Australia’s 2024 Australia’s Best Pie and Pastie Competition and National Artisan Baking Competition held in Moonee Ponds on Tuesday 18 June and Wednesday 19 June.

Wandin Bakery took out first place in the Open Sourdough (minimum 600mg) category with their simple but effective Garlic, Rosemary and Sea Salt bread and first again in the standard Sourdough Loaf.

All four of their submitted pies were also classed; their Chilli pie was awarded bronze while their Broccoli and Cauliflower, Butter Chicken and the Plain pie by Jacob Nichols (in the Apprentice category) pies were given silver.

Owners Tracey and Steven Miller said they were very proud of the awards they won.

“The first one that we took out, which was the Victorian prize, was really exciting so then to do the national competition in Melbourne and take out champion was fantastic,” Mr Miller said.

“It was really good considering we were only entering a few things and everything that we did enter placed highly out of thousands upon thousands of entrants and products.”

Production Manager Jake Triggett is the main man behind the stunning sourdough, having joined Wandin Bakery with six months to go on his apprenticeship before going on to hold his current role.

MrTriggett said it all started because he just really likes sourdough.

“It’s more of a traditional and basic style of bread and while it can be a little more tedious, it’s a lot more technical because you’ve got to keep a culture alive, you’ve got to feed it constantly and keep it nice and healthy so that you get a good flavour in your bread,” he said.

“It’s just something that I always wanted to do and Steve and Tracey have helped me out and let me do it,”

“We’ve got room to grow with the pies as well, only getting silvers and bronze so there’s obviously room for us to strive for better.”

Steven and Tracey Miller have owned the Wandin Bakery since 2021, with it having been previously owned by the O’Donohue family. Clem and Mary O’Donoghue were the most recent owners, having taken over from Clem’s parents Mel and Evelyn themselves.

Mr Miller said they bought it during the second lockdown of COVID so it was trying times.

“We started pretty much straight away try-

ing to build a good solid team and we managed to pick up a great baker in Jake who’s now the production manager,” he said.

“Over time, we have expanded and expanded and Jacob has now come along and he’s our apprentice and he himself is doing really well as well.”

Mr Miller also did his baking apprenticeship at the Wandin Bakery when he first started out.

Mr Miller said having a strong team is something that every small business needs but support from the community also helps.

“They understand how things work, they understand the quality that’s expected and accepted and they strive for everything as much as they can, it’s imperative to have a good team,” he said.

“During the day of the contest, we had customers ringing in to wish us well before we headed off, they knew that we started early as we baked a lot earlier through the night, but they were ringing at three, four o’clock in the morning to wish us good luck.”

Wandin Bakey has already started devising plans for next year’s competitions, potentially including new flavours of sourdough, including a sweet variety, and a continued effort to work on their pies.

Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence also visited to congratulate her local bakery and said it’s fantastic to see a local small business succeeding.

“Who doesn’t love bread, pies, cakes but the reality is that small business is tough at the moment with the cost of business and surviving,” she said.

“You’re not only doing that, you’re actually innovating, winning awards and creating employment opportunities for young local people through your apprenticeships so it’s fantastic to see right here in Wandin.”

L-R: Tracey Miller, Steven Miller, Jake Triggett, Bridget Vallence, Jacob Nichols, Sue Rodgers and Shannon Neale.

Pictures: CALLUM LUDWIG

Wandin Bakery’s sourdough and some of their pies were standouts.

NEWS Carer career support help

By Jamie Padgett

An outer eastern carers’ support organisation has been able to introduce beneficial new programs after receiving significant funding from the State Government.

Different Journeys is a group running programs and events around Victoria, including the Yarra Ranges and Maroondah, aiming to create safe and affordable spaces for autistic teens, adults, their carers, and family to support each other.

Balancing a workload and caring for someone in need is a difficult task. Many carers struggle to find opportunities to deal with these conflicting responsibilities, as well as the challenge of reentering the workforce after taking the time to care for loved ones.

After recently receiving this funding, Different Journeys have unveiled a project designed to help support carers in their workplace and provide them with the necessary resources.

To achieve this, they are working with the State Library as an employer to create and maintain flexible roles that suit both the carer and the employer.

The funding of $100,000 was announced by carers and volunteers minister Ros Spence who said carers were “an untapped resource”.

“We know that carers across Victoria face significant challenges in seeking paid work, and these programs are part of our efforts to remove some of these barriers.”

This shows a definite step forward in supporting the development of flexible roles in the workplace and removal of the barriers carers can face finding employment.

A secondary project was outlined, describing a tool kit for carer support services and employment programs.

It is said to include tips and guides on how to address the need for flexibility in work for

employers in effort to improve the mentoring these institutions provide for carers.

“We also know employers who create flexible, supportive workplaces stand to benefit from the untapped talents of thousands of Victorians, helping to address workforce

shortages across sectors, industries and regions,” Ms Spence said.

Addressing the acute workplace shortages serves as an acknowledgement of the significant pool of hidden talent represented by carers and their struggles to find paid work.

These projects should provide support on either end of the situation, recognising the help employers need to create these flexible workspaces and the additional assistance required for carers to remove barriers in employment.

WinafamilypasstoARCbyerth

the most precious of things. A place to embrace the awe and wonder of nature.

Showcasing exquisite puppetry, an enigmatic host, audience interaction and a world of rare and exotic animals, ARC by Erth is a profound experience that embraces the natural world and the creatures that cohabit this place we call Earth.

ARC by Erth will be performed at The Memo Healesville Thursday 25th July, 2024 at 6PM Bought to the community by Yarra Ranges Council - CULTURE TRACKS

Star Mail have a family pass to the show on offer to one lucky reader

Funding for Different Journeys will help expand its carers’ support programs.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

Brushing up on smiles

By Mikayla van Loon

The next generation of preschoolers has learnt about the importance of keeping their teeth healthy through activities, games and making habits fun.

Mount Evelyn’s Fernhill Preschool was the latest kindergarten to earn its Smiles 4 Miles award after completing the oral health promotion program, designed by Dental Health Services Victoria and run by Inspiro.

Educators, families and the children at Fernhill Preschool all worked together to create an environment that promotes healthy eating, drinking water and looking after children’s teeth.

Children engaged with fun learning activities to encourage them to form good oral health habits early, while families were provided with information and resources to support them at home in creating healthy lunchboxes and brushing their child’s teeth morning and night.

Inspiro health promotion officer Kristen Gurney said setting preschool aged children up early with dental hygiene habits was vital for long term oral health.

“Baby teeth are really important because they are needed for eating a wide variety of foods, are critical for speech development, hold space for the permanent teeth and help to guide them into position,” she said.

“Every child is at risk of tooth decay. However, drinking water, eating healthy foods and regular tooth brushing can remove the plaque and prevent decay from occurring.”

With baby teeth often remaining for up to 12 years, Kristen said it was important to keep them healthy as a good foundation for adult teeth.

Inspiro’s dental service also attended Fernhill Preschool to provide dental screenings for

children, so any problems could be picked up early.

Kristen said even as adults, early detection was best practice to avoid excessive costs relating to dental care.

“Many people don’t think too seriously about their dental health until a problem arises. That’s when it can get very expensive,” she said.

“But many dental issues can be reversed if addressed early, meaning the expensive treatments can be avoided or reduced with regular check ups.”

By running Smiles 4 Miles in 30 preschools and long day care centres across the Yarra Ranges, Kristen said the aim was to get the message out there about the importance of dental care.

“We find that many parents simply aren’t aware of the importance of looking after their child’s teeth and may believe that as their baby teeth fall out, they don’t need to worry too much about them.

“Cost can be another barrier to accessing dental checks and so it is important that parents are aware that all children can access free or low cost dental care via their local public dental service - like the one we have at Inspiro.”

Kristen said the recommended age for a child’s first dental check is two-years-old, which can be done by a dentist, maternal and child health nurse or doctor.

The Inspiro dental team also travels to early childhood services across the Yarra Ranges providing dental check ups to young children.

The next free dental screening clinic for children is at Woori Community House on Tuesday 9 July.

Families can contact Woori Community House to book on 5964 6857 or by logging on to wooricommhouse.org/ourcourses

Rebooted Scouting in Montrose reaches new heights

Montrose Scout Group has grown exponentially in its near 12 months since rebooting the club after a previous merger with Mount Evelyn.

On the 24 June, a record-breaking 27 Joeys and Cubs from Montrose embarked on an exhilarating rock-climbing adventure, filling the evening with excitement, achievement, and a spirit of camaraderie.

Guided and belayed by dedicated parents and Leaders, these young adventurers experienced the thrill of vertical exploration in a safe and supportive environment.

The rock-climbing event, held at Urban Climb in Blackburn, saw smiles abound

as the young climbers tackled challenging routes. Each participant had the opportunity to test their limits, celebrate personal milestones, and discover the joys of climbing.

The atmosphere was electric with enthusiasm as the Joeys and Cubs, ranging in age from five to 12, overcame initial nerves to achieve their climbing goals.

This event marks a significant milestone for the Montrose Joeys and Cubs, a new group that started in August 2023. Since its inception, the group has been reaching new heights, both in their rock-climbing activities and in their growth as a community. Having a record 27 members attending the last week

of Term 2 is a testament to the group’s success and the vibrant, adventurous spirit that defines it.

“It was incredible to see the determination and resilience of our Cubs and Joeys. They faced their fears head-on and came out smashed their own goals.This experience has undoubtedly sparked a love for adventure in many of them,” one of the Cub parents said.

With such a successful and inspiring event, the Montrose Cubs and Joeys are sure to have many more adventures in store. The rock climbing experience has not only introduced many young members to the joys of climbing but has also reinforced the values of

perseverance, teamwork, and self-belief.

As the Joeys and Cubs look forward to their next adventure, the memories of this thrilling rock-climbing night will undoubtedly serve as a reminder of what they can achieve with courage and support. The Montrose Scout Group continues to soar to new heights, both in their activities and as a thriving community of young adventurers.

Montrose Scout Group is currently recruiting for new members in Term 3 - if you’re interested in joining the adventure, Group Leader Tim Whitehead, can be contacted by email at gl.montrose@scoutsvictoria.com.au

For their final week of term, Montrose Scout Group headed to indoor rock climbing to test their abilities. Pictures: SUPPLIED It was all hands on deck from parents and leaders to see the Cubs and Joeys reach new heights.

Fernhill Preschool teachers Laura, Carly and Emma with their Smiles 4 Miles award certificate.

Picture: SUPPLIED

NEWS Rollicking Suite Surrender

By Mikayla van Loon and Jamie Padgett Lilydale

Athenaeum Theatre Company brings back the 1940s’ aesthetic in a rollicking new comedy production.

Suite Surrender follows the story of two musical divas as they deal with their hatred for each other and their disputes throughout the hotel they are forced to share.

Tension and temperaments rise as they are mistakenly assigned the same hotel suite, sending the hotel manager into a spiral of anxiety trying to keep them both happy and as far away from one another as possible.

Director Bob Bramble outlined the importance of getting your spirits lifted by entertainment, especially in these dreary months.

“It’s that chance to get away from our troubles and cares and so on, and just be in a world that’s so far away and immerse yourself in it.”

A combination of the attire and music will resurrect the feeling and visuals of a 1940s wartime performance, inspired by the produc-

tions put on to raise money for the troops at the time.

Many fine details have been taken into account, from the costume design to the ambient music and audio, taking care to keep the audience fully immersed at all times, and bring about a sense of nostalgia.

“It’s the Great American Songbook type music that everybody of a certain vintage knows and loves,” Bramble said.

Starting in the mid 1970s and working with them for nearly 50 years, Bramble expresses his love for working with the theatre and depicted them as a “professional organisation” full of fabulous people.

This script was discovered when members of the theatre, including lead actress Adrienne George, met up during the pandemic and went through various play readings for their own amusement.

After realising the creative intention and careful, clever writing behind the work, it

made an impression on them, solidifying it as an easy choice for a full scale performance.

The cast of nine has built a level of cohesion and coordination, as they rehearsed comedic exercises and get timing as perfect as possible.

“We have to be so attuned to what the other person’s doing with no visible ability to see what they’re doing, we have to listen for every change in dialogue or sound of doors opening and shutting,” George said.

Playing one of the divas, George said “it is a role that I love and I relish” because it’s a “chance to be glamorous and slightly self obsessed” for a moment in time.

Described as “joyful escapism” by George, the production is a light hearted and enjoyable way to relax in a world of colourful characters and clever dialogue.

Suite Surrender will be running from 27 June until 13 July with matinee performances on Saturdays 6 and 13 July as well as Sundays 30 June and 7 July.

Voices across years in democracy, media and politics

By Maria Millers

Democracy is hard work not just for leaders but also for citizens.

Its ability to survive against authoritarian inroads is dependent on vigilant and informed citizens.

And that’s you and me.

The freedoms we enjoy are based on a belief and trust in that those we elect are working for the common good of our community and not in the interests of powerful or corrupt private, government or commercial interests.

How we are informed relies on the integrity of our government in being transparent as to what they are executing in our names.

And of course the Fourth Estate, the media, in all its various forms, should play a crucial role.

But sometimes the only way we find out about what is happening in areas well removed from our daily lives is when somebody is prepared to speak out.

Often at a very high personal cost.

We call these people whistle blowers.

Wikileaks, under Julian Assange published numerous classified and sensitive documents from various governments and organizations about military and government activities of our closest ally, the US, that were not public knowledge.

Julian Assange is not a traditional whistle blower, as he did not directly leak the documents himself.

Chelsea Manning did that.

Instead, he facilitated the leaks and publication of information from whistle blowers.

The media portrayal of Assange has fluctuated widely, from being hailed as a hero of free speech to being condemned as a reckless opportunist.

Public opinion is similarly divided, with some viewing him as a martyr for free speech and others as a dangerous provocateur.

Macquarie University journalism professor Peter Greste writing in The Conversation understands what imprisonment feels like.

In 2014-15 he was imprisoned in Egypt on terrorism charges and admits his incarceration was nothing compared to Assange’s who spent 1901 days in the notorious Bellmarsh prison.

Like many he believes Assange should never have been charged with espionage as Wikileaks was doing what the First Amendment to the US Constitution was designed to achieve, namely to guarantee people the right to speak out against abuses of government authority.

But he qualifies his comments by seeing a difference between a journalist and a publisher and makes the point that Assange’s Walkley Award was awarded not for his journalism but for outstanding contribution to journalism.

But journalists cannot do their job of investigative public interest journalism without those who are prepared to speak the

WOORILLA WORDS

truth, to reveal what is often kept from us.

Usually someone who has witnessed corporate, organisational or government misconduct or lack of transparency or other types of wrongdoing.

Of course, there are times as in war when national security requires some things not to be in the public domain.

In the Australian context just think of recent exposes: PwC, casino scandals, banking, war crimes, Robodebt, have all been brought into public scrutiny by concerned individuals, allowing journalists to do their investigations.

Whistle blowers are, of course, not a modern phenomenon.

Throughout history there have always been people who have put the common good ahead of personal considerations and have often suffered as a result.

Some may remember the impact of the publication of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring in which she alerted the world to the dangers of indiscriminate use of DDT.

Her work not only raised public awareness to its dangers but led to the banning of DDT in USA in 1972.

Rachel Carson was a scientist but ordinary women like Karen Silkwood and Erin Brokovich stand out as courageous women who stood up to wrongdoings of big corporations.

In a very strange one car accident, Karen Silkwood died on her way to a meeting with a New York Times reporter.

The documents she had with her were never found.

Similarly legal clerk, Erin Brokovich, doggedly pursued Pacific Gas and Electric for ground water contamination and in 1993 won a $333 million settlement.

In our own backyard whistle blowers face much uncertainty.

And they do so at a great personal cost as Australian laws do not protect whistle blowers. World Press Freedom Day celebrated in May each year raises awareness of the importance of the freedom of the press and reminds governments to uphold the right of freedom of expression as enshrined in the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

It is disconcerting to see Australia’s ranking slipping down 12 places in just 12 months to 39th position.

The prison sentence handed to David McBride sends a chilling message to whistle

The role of whistle blowers is important in democracy. Picture: ON FILE

blowers across Australia.

McBride a former Australian military lawyer leaked documents about alleged war crimes by Australian special forces in Afghanistan.

He was convicted under the Defence Act and sentenced to almost six years.

Richard Boyle a former Australian Taxation Office employee as of now, has not been sentenced but currently awaiting trial after a judge ruled against him being protected under whistle blower laws.

If we look back at whistle blowers we see a long list of brave individuals ready to stand up for what they see as wrongs that should be righted.

In times of turmoil and social unrest, poetry, song and films have long been powerful tools for celebrating whistle blowers, raising awareness, and inspiring change.

From the early verses of William Blake comes The Chimney Sweeper from Songs of Innocence (1789).

When my mother died I was very young, And my father sold me while yet my tongue Could scarcely cry “’weep! ‘weep! ‘weep! ‘weep!”

So your chimneys I sweep & in soot I sleep.

William Blake reflects on his views on the plight of chimney sweeps as the Industrial Revolution takes shape, particularly focusing on the exploitation and suffering of young children forced into this dangerous and degrading work.

We should remind ourselves that many of the cheap consumer goods we enjoy are still being done by children in appalling conditions.

Many contemporary poets have given voice to those who have been silenced and ignored.

As Maya Angelou put it: You may shoot me with your words, You may cut me with your eyes, You may kill me with your hatefulness, But still, like air, I’ll rise.

In Warsan Shire’s poem Home, he delves into the harrowing experiences faced by refugees and the displacement of millions around the world.

This poem serves as a poignant reminder

of the urgent need to protect the rights of those fleeing conflict and persecution.

No one leaves home unless home is the mouth of a shark.

You only run for the border when you see the whole city running as well.

Assange’s freedom is a testament to years and years of public campaigning.

The bipartisan support in Parliament was gratifying to see and indubitably helped secure his release.

But as he returns home, the campaign for press freedom and truth has never been more important.

Nor has our role as citizens to encourage open debate about important issues that impact on our lives and to call out any disinformation.

The following poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, published in 1914 is still regretfully eerily pertinent:

Protest

To sin by silence, when we should protest, Makes cowards out of men. The human race

Has climbed on protest. Had no voice been raised

Against injustice, ignorance, and lust, The inquisition yet would serve the law, And guillotines decide our least disputes. The few who dare, must speak and speak again

To right the wrongs of many. Speech, thank God,

No vested power in this great day and land Can gag or throttle. Press and voice may cry Loud disapproval of existing ills; May criticise oppression and condemn The lawlessness of wealth-protecting laws That let the children and childbearers toil To purchase ease for idle millionaires.

Therefore I do protest against the boast Of independence in this mighty land. Call no chain strong, which holds one rusted link.

Call no land free, that holds one fettered slave.

Until the manacled slim wrists of babes Are loosed to toss in childish sport and glee, Until the mother bears no burden, save The precious one beneath her heart, until God’s soil is rescued from the clutch of greed And given back to labor, let no man

Call this the land of freedom.

This poem is in the public domain. Woorilla International Poetry Prize 2024 now open for entries, visit the following website, woorilla.org.au

Suite Surrender cast L-R Paul Wanis,Adrienne George,Rebekkah Wilde, Fiona Carter,with James Banger and Joshua Houston behind.

Picture: ALEXANDRA CARTER, WANDERLING PHOTOGRAPHY

Glue binds

Volunteers are the glue that holds our community together.

If you have been to an Anzac Day commemoration, local Christmas carols, a family fun day, a weekend market, a community fair, a sporting match, car show or any other event in our local community, chances are that event was run by a team of dedicated volunteers. Before politics, I too had the pleasure of volunteering in this wonderful community.

From the committees of local cricket, soccer, and football clubs to my role as founding chair oftheLilydaleTownshipActionGroup–thefeeling you get from contributing your time and energy to a cause you believe in is unlike any other. It is about giving back, connecting with others, and making a positive impact on our community, both now and for future generations.

Volunteering isn’t just about events and committees; it is about the countless hours people spend caring for others, delivering Meals on Wheels, preserving local history, looking after our environment, protecting our community from fire and natural disasters, creating strong townships, supporting veterans and staffing food banks and op shops to ensure no local family goes without.

I recently had the pleasure of recognising the contribution of volunteers at my 2024 Casey Volunteer and Community Awards. There were over 300 people in the room to witness 52 individuals and 20 community groups receive an award, highlighting our strong volunteer spirit.

I often visit these groups throughout theYarra Ranges, and while their activities vary, they

From my desk

Federal Member for Casey

share one common factor: they rely on volunteers, and they need more. Between 2010 and 2020, the proportion of people involved in volunteering has steadily decreased, with a further drop in recent years.

According to Volunteering Australia, there were around 1.86 million fewer volunteers at the start of 2022 compared to pre-Covid.

To keep our community strong and connected, we need to encourage the next generation of volunteers. The camaraderie and sense of belonging you feel when volunteering is truly special, especially in our community.

If you have been considering joining a local group, I encourage you to take that step.Whether you can commit daily, weekly, monthly or just every now and then – any contribution is significant. Our local community groups will welcome you with open arms. Drop by, introduce yourself and ask how you can help out.

It might just be the best decision you ever make, or at the very least, the start of something incredibly rewarding.

Stunning sophomore film

Winnie-The-Pooh: Blood and Honey 2 Starring Scott Chambers, Tallulah Evans and Ryan Oliva

Rated R18+

3.75/5

The sequel to the atrocious Winnie-ThePooh: Blood and Honey, Winnie-The-Pooh: Blood and Honey 2 defies expectations by being a genuinely good horror movie.

The only survivor of the Hundred Acre Massacre, Christopher Robin (Scott Chambers) tries to put the incident behind him, but the savage Pooh (Ryan Oliva) and his animal friends seek bloody vengeance on the town of Ashdown.

In my year-end worst countdown for 2023, I described Blood and Honey 1 as shockingly incompetent on nearly every level, but Blood and Honey 2 is leagues’ better and shows substantial maturity from director Rhys Frake-Waterfield.

The dialogue and performances are overall solid, and Chambers is a poignant, committed lead as Christopher Robin.

Blood and Honey 2’s pacing is somewhat disjointed but still features plenty of eerie, well-directed sequences, including a chilling monologue about genetic experimentation, and inventive brutality to satisfy the gorehounds.

Unlike the blunt, humourless first film, Blood and Honey 2 has tongue-in-cheek fun with its absurd premise, but also addresses

the theme of trauma with some tact, unlike the problematic original.

Frake-Waterfield even amusingly frames the first film as in-universe schlock based on the Hundred Acre Massacre (not unlike the films-within-films gimmick of the Human Centipede series).

Here I go again with my weird comparisons: Blood and Honey 2 is the opposite of Beau is Afraid, which also appeared on last year’s worst list.

With Beau is Afraid, Ari Aster got carried away with a larger budget and made a bloated movie, but with Blood and Honey 2, Frake-Waterfield refined his craft and went bigger and better.

A huge upgrade from the first film, Winnie-The-Pooh: Blood and Honey 2 is a silly but grisly, disturbing, well-acted and thoroughly enjoyable horror movie, and is available to rent or buy on iTunes.

CARTOON

Q and A with Maria

Thanks to The Star Mail, this reviewer recently connected with Maria Millers, founder of theWoorilla Poetry Prize.

Maria was born in Harbin, a city in far Northeast China, in 1937.

Her father was a British journalist, while her mother came from a family of Russian intellectuals well versed in philosophy, history and literature. Maria arrived in Australia as a baby.

“My family prized education above all. Poetry was central to any gathering, and I remember having to recite a very long poem by Nikolay Nekrasov when I was quite young,” Maria said.

“I, however, am not a poet. I’ve been a teacher and a radio journalist and have always engaged with socio/political issues.”

Back in the late 70s and 80s, Maria hosted gatherings at her home Woorilla in Ferny Creek, attended by fellow writers, poets and travellers.

“The Hills were home to some wonderful creatives: Poets like StellaTurner, Maria Louise Stephens, Dorothy Williams and Wilma Birtles. Graphic designer Bert Birtles, intellectuals Arthur and Margaret Howells and Louise Rockne. And my biggest support, my late husband, Igor Millers,” Maria said.

Then the idea of a literary magazine was born. “There was a small seeding grant from the old Sherbrooke Shire, but, after that, we had to survive on sales and advertising. The editing layout and graphics were done in group, as well as distribution and sales,” Maria said.

“The Woorilla Poetry Prize began [when] we noted the volume of poetry submissions. In 1989, I approached ParksVictoria for support. They came on board with $1000 prize money and the use of the beautiful Pirianda Gardens to hold the awarding ceremony.”

The inaugural judge was renowned academic and poet Judith Rodriguez, who supported the prize until her death in 2018.

Another memorable figure was Louise

Millers PASSION FOR PROSE

Rockne, publisher of the poetry journal Prints, who co-managed the prize until her death in 2019.

There’salsoKathyAlexander,whoworked tirelessly in organising everything as well as contributing observational pieces. Today, the prize features an open section, a youth section, and a CALD youth section for poets aged 12-18 who have spoken English for 5 years or less.

“Poetry should be regarded as mainstream as it was in the past. More and more poets are writing poetry that speaks to people’s daily concerns and in an accessible language. The popularity of taking poetry off the page and onto young people’s screens is seen in the growing number of Slam poetry events,” Maria said.

“From my experience with the youth entries, young people are writing the most compelling poetry about issues that matter to them and their futures.” In her column Woorilla Words, Maria demonstrates poetry can be all about our concerns and interests.

“By its form of conciseness, it’s the genre most suited to today’s time-poor people,” she said.

“Poetry collections that explore subjects from caring for a parent with a life-limiting disease to prejudice towards immigrants and the indigenous are now winning major prizes. Poetry can tackle current issues, often in a powerful and affecting way.”

Farce at Lilydale Athenaeum brings fun and laughs

Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre

Suite Surrender

Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre presented its au diences with a farce in its production of Suite Surrender.

A great evening of fun and laughs with a twist to surprise you.

Set in the spring of 1942 with the members of the armed forces creating havoc off stage.

A wonderful stage setting of the main room of a suite in the Palm Beach royale Hotel where two stars of the silver screen have accidently both booked the dame suite. Sis this led to fun and games. The room had the requisite five doors (essential for a farce). The doors on audience left and right led to bedrooms. The entrance door to the suite was in the rear at audience right.

The closet door was next o the main door

and then there was the balcony door whish when opened gave a good view of the palm trees and the beach.

The play opens with two bellhops laying flowers around the room when the manager arrives. The two bellhops Otto played by James Banger and Francis played by Joshua Houston.

Both gave remarkable performances causing lots of laughter from the opening night audience. The hotel manager, Bernard S. Dunlop

was given a great performance by PaulWants.

The socialite who was running a benefit concert for the troops, Mrs Everet P. Osgood, was played by Pia Maganov.

Pia handled the role with finesse giving a good performance. The journalist and gossip writer Dora Del Rio was performed by Rebekka Wilde.

A good interpretation of the role and some of the suffering Rebekka went through was amazing. Then one of the Hollywood stars complete with secretary entered. This was Claudia McFadden played by Fiona Carter, a wonderful portrayal of such a spoiled leading lady. Her secretary Mr Pippen portrayed by James Anderson who your correspondent feels stole the show. A large gawky portrayal, a real yes-man who obeyed every whim until… The came Miss Boodles, another great success. A French poodle who behaved herself throughout not

disgracing herself at all.

The other Hollywood star Athena Sinclair played by Adrienne George.

The two stars hated each other, and they accidently booked into the same suite which led to some interesting moments.

Athena caught the essence of such a character and added to the enjoyment of the audience. Her secretary Murphy was played by Em Beggs who gave a great performance in her character.

A good evening of fun and laughter, with terrific costuming, set design and a wonderful opening night.

REMEMBER

Eltham Little Theatre, Into the Woods Jnr, Season: 6 – 21 July. Bookings: 0411 713 095 The 1812 Theatre The Sweat Delilah

EASY TO FALL IN LOVE WITH ‘BELLEVUE HOUSE’

POISED peacefully with a stunning outlook of sweeping Yarra Valley views, this light filled sanctuary is brimming with provincial charm and is guaranteed to impress with its immaculate presentation and blend of contemporary appointments. This stunning property presents a feeling of grandeur, creating a wonderful environment for relaxed living and entertaining, with captivating living spaces and sensational location. Lovingly restored with the original character in mind, this is a perfect family home, luxurious Bed & Breakfast, or even a wedding venue.

The home’s stunning interior commences with an immediate sense of wonder and awe. Spread over two levels, the upstairs living spaces are north-west facing allowing for an abundance of natural light to filter through. The neatly appointed country style kitchen is an entertainer’s dream, especially as it flows seamlessly through to the elegant formal dining and lounge rooms. The four bedrooms, each have their own warm ambience and are huge in size, including the luxurious master where you can spot the infamous Warburton mist train from bed. The bathrooms are spacious and stylishly renovated to bring a sense of glamour to the home. Furthering the appeal are the impressive fixtures and fittings including evaporative cooling, gas log heaters in the master suite and lounge room, pot belly stove in the alfresco, 18 solar panels on the north and east sides, garage, carport, and ample off-street parking.

Outside is all about celebrating your surrounds, entertaining and easy living.

Embracing a beautiful garden landscape, the alluring alfresco area is a fabulous space for family gatherings, and as you wander up the tiered yard, you will find quiet pockets where you can relax and soak in the tranquillity. The Summer House is the perfect spot for unwinding and watching the views change as the different seasons roll through.

Set against a mesmerising backdrop of rolling hills, this grand Warburton home is the epitome of the Yarra Valley lifestyle so many have grown to desire. Within walking distance of the Yarra River and Main Street attractions, this is a once in a

ELEGANCE MEETS MODERN LUXURY

NESTLED on a north facing half acre approx. This exquisite 5-bedroom character, weatherboard home which offers a blend of classic charm and contemporary luxury. Every detail has been meticulously crafted to provide a sanctuary that is both beautiful and functional.

The heart of this home is its stunning modern kitchen, designed for the culinary enthusiast. Featuring a 3-metre Quantum Quartz benchtop, this kitchen is both a workspace and a statement piece. High-end appliances, including a Smeg oven and rangehood, and an integrated Miele dishwasher, make meal preparation a pleasure. Step onto gorgeous timber floorboards that run throughout the home, leading you into three expansive living areas.

The formal lounge, with its cozy gas log fire, offers a sophisticated space for entertaining or unwinding. The combined family and dining area is illuminated by beautiful French doors that open onto a wrap-around deck, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living.

A large rumpus room at the rear provides the perfect haven for teenagers, with direct access to a spacious rear deck. The home boasts two bathrooms and a separate powder room, each designed with comfort and style in mind.

The main bathroom features a Japanese soaker bath, providing a perfect retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. The exterior of the home is just as impressive.

A remote-controlled double garage sits at the end of a long driveway, offering ample space for multiple cars, a trailer, or a caravan. The 3.2KW solar panel system is a thoughtful addition, helping to reduce running costs and support sustainable living.

Located close to schools and shops, this home offers easy access to Burwood Highway and Wellington Road, making commuting and daily errands a breeze.

This prime location is the perfect setting for family life. ●

ARCHITECTURALINSPIRATION

Wallsofglass,timber &beamsareallpartofthisstunningcontemporaryhomethatstands proudinitsownquietenclave.Soundproportionsofspaceflowthrough acleveropenplandesignthatisasfunctionalasitispractical.Theattentiontodetail,maintenanceand spotlesspresentationis atruecredittotheowner.Includesductedheating,splitsystem cooling,lushestablishedgardenson a979sqmblock,brilliantentertainingdeck,atrium styleglassentrytothesecondstorey,largeremotegarage &a securerearbackyard

GrantSkipsey 0418528102

ESCAPETHEGRId& MAkE ATREECHANGE

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

MODERNAMENITIES& CONVENIENTLOCATION

Stepinsideandexperiencea well-designedlayout,startingwitha cozyfrontliving,then theheartofthehomeunfoldsintoanopen-planliving& diningthatseamlesslyconnects tothemodernkitchen.OtherfeaturesincludegenerouslysizedbedroomswithBIR’s masterwithbaywindows,spaciousoutdoorentertainingarea,a substantialtwo-and-ahalf-cargarageforeasierparking &storage/workshopspace,drive-throughaccess-ideal fora boatortrailer,ductedheating,evaporativecoolingand aseparatelaundry

ErinDavies 0493136937

JaneMortimer 0397546111

Amidpicturesquerollinghills &pasturesthisbreathtakingpropertyrevealsaninspiring blendofnaturalbeauty &sereneliving.Featuringensuitesto3 bedrooms, astudy designatedchildren’swing,top-of-the-linekitchenwith aSmeg1100mmstove, 4living spaces,indoorheatedpool &spa,wetbar,hugecovereddeck,wood fires,3.6kw solar& 13.2kwTeslabattery, 3stables,tackroom,feed &viewingroom,daypaddocks, menage &roundyard,15paddocks,fencedplayground,electricgates &somuchmore!

MickDolphin 0429684522

JanetHawkins 0409117432

HOME FOCUS

STYLISH HOME PLUS A BIG SHED

LOCATED on a quiet road, and an easy walk to the Cockatoo township, this 3-bedroom, 1 bathroom home with open plan living is impressive from start to finish, with a 1.8m white picket fence, electric gate access, large shed, and landscaped gardens.

Enter into the open plan living area with toasty wood heater, whilst the home has gas ducted heating throughout and a split system for year round comfort and convenience. You also have direct access from the lounge to the sunny deck, perfect for entertaining, which leads to the flat, fully fenced rear yard. Adjacent to the lounge is the good-sized dining area and the renovated and well-appointed kitchen with quality appliances and dishwasher and has easy access to the spacious walk-in pantry/ laundry – a great use of the space. Add to these 3 good-sized robed bedrooms and a renovated family bathroom with separate bath, shower, and vanity.

Outside, behind the picket fence, (with a walk-through gate for easy access), there is enough space to park a few more cars and a driveway to the double lock up garage/shed and the flat and useable backyard, where the kids and fur babies can play safely. This property has it all so don’t miss out! Call to arrange a private inspection today.

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

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

AaronDay M 0407365994

BrennanMileto M 0422996451

Spacious 4BedroomFamilyHomewithPonyPaddock! There’sa welcomingentertainingareanearthefrontdoor,&thefloatingfloorboardsinviteyouin. Thenthereare 2bedroomswithBIRs.Thereisthena loungeroomwith acosywoodfire,& thehome flowstoa masterbedroomwith aBIR &a largeWIRthatcouldpotentiallybe agreatensuitespace (STCA).Thezonedlivingthenhasanotherbedroomwith aBIR,& thereis alovelystudy/homeoffice areawith atreedoutlook.Thekitchen &diningareaareopenplan &thecharmingkitchenhasa woodfire,gasstovetop,oven& dishwasher,aswellasa walkinpantry/butlerspantry.Thehomethen continuesalongtoanupdatedlaundry &bathroom.Thishomealsofeaturesgasductedheating! Externallyis aponypaddockwith aponyshed,plentyofOSP,anda DLUGatthefrontofthehome.

AaronDay M 0407365994 BrennanMileto M 0422996451

CountryCharmwithModernConveniences! ArriveviatheasphaltdrivewaytodiscoverplentyofOSP &a fullyfencedyard.Thefreshlyupdated kitchenhas agenerousbutlerspantry,& spreadsintothelounge/diningroom.Theloungeroom featuresfloortoceilingwindows &offersbeautifulnatureviewsalongsidethecomfortofhydronic heating&asplitsystemAC.Therearethen2 bedroomsbothwithBIRsonthisfloor,& thenthe updatedfamilybathroomcompletewith asoakerbathtub,separateshower, &a toilet.Thehome features astudyatthetopofthestairs, &a parentsretreatonthelowerlevel.Downstairsis amaster bedroomwithspaciousWIR, alivingareawithplentyofstorage,& then aworkshop,laundry& externalaccess.Outsidethislovelypropertyoffers acoveredentertainingareawithbuiltinBBQ/pizza oven,& afirepit/deckingareatoenjoytranquilmomentswithnature.

Location!Charm!Privacy &Paddocks!

Thislovinglymaintained 2bedroom,1 bathroomhomewithdelightful10ftceilings,ispositionedwell backfromtheroadwith2 wellfenced &maintainedpaddockstothefrontoftheproperty.Thereare 2furtherpaddocks&abushpaddockwith aspringfeddam&acreektotherearoftheproperty. Thehomeisinvitingwithhardwoodflooring, &anopenplandesignforthekitchen/diningarea. Potterinthekitchenwhilstsoakingintheviewsacrossthepaddocks& enjoyingthewarmthfrom thewoodfireinthediningroom.Thediningroomflowstotheloungeroomwhichhasprivateviews overtherearpaddock.Thereis aspaciousfamilybathroom &twogenerousbedrooms.Themaster bedroomhasa splitsystemAC& plentyofstorage.Externallythere’sa doublecarport,a 3.3m*7.5m studio,&aconcreteflooredworkshopareaunderthehouse& anadditionalstoragespace.

A 1 B 2 C

48aBeaconsfield-EmeraldRoad,Emerald$1,550,000 -$1,700,000

HOME FOCUS

TWO DELIGHTFUL DWELLINGS ON MANICURED GARDENS

IF you have high hopes for a fabulous Hills lifestyle, this property promises to surpass expectations. Comprising an impeccable 5-bedroom plus study family residence and a charming 2-bedroom bungalow set on a magnificently manicured 3,231sqm (approx.) allotment, this property offers a lifestyle second-to-none.

The primary residence with leafy verandah and enclosed rear alfresco is the epitome of a dream Dandenong Ranges residence. Enjoy spacious living areas with garden views on each level, including one with wood fire, and a stylish kitchen with freestanding gas cooker, shaker cabinets, and inviting breakfast bar. The bedrooms, including main with ensuite and walk-in robe, are generously proportioned and the versatile study/home office is peacefully positioned. Add to this a beautifully appointed laundry, soaking tub family bathroom, double carport, and versatile workshop, and everything you could wish for can be found here.

Furthermore, adding options for multigenerational living or rental income is the

delightful second dwelling. Featuring an open plan living area with quality carpet, dining area with sun-filled bay window, and kitchen with Belling cooker, there is ample space for entertaining. The 2 bedrooms are each adorned with built-in robes and the bathroom boasts laundry facilities. With a separate drive and seamless garden connection with the main house, these 2 homes are beautifully balanced.

This incredible lifestyle property suits buyers seeking something special. Don’t delay, join us for a tour today.

· Generous 3,231sqm (approx.) allotment with magnificent manicured gardens

· Primary 5-bedroom plus study family residence with dual living areas and stylish kitchen with quality appliances

· Ducted heating, evaporative cooling, ducted vacuum, and rain water tanks

Charming 2-bedroom second dwelling with lychgate and verandah entry plus open plan living with bay window

Double carport, workshop, level lawn areas, and dual access ●

FANTASTIC FAMILY HOME WITH VIEWS

STEP inside this spacious split level family home, located in a highly sought after area. The house is bathed in natural light, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere, featuring a perfectly situated living area with stunning mountain views. Enjoy your mornings on the large front deck, taking in the beautiful scenery with a cuppa. The master bedroom, conveniently located off the main living area, serves as a peaceful retreat, complete with an ensuite and a deep double robe.

The upper level opens to the dining and kitchen area, all close to bedrooms 2 and 3 and both equipped with built in robes and a loft storage.

Step through the back door to discover fully fenced, secure covered patio area, ideal for entertaining and safe play for children and pets. This space overlooks a lovely garden landscape that backs onto a paddock.

The location is fantastic, with the Warburton Rail Trail just a short walk away for morning strolls, and convenient access to public transport and local shops. This is a home you’ll be proud to call your own. You’re sure to love this little gem. ●

HorseHavenon aGlorious5 acres( approx.) Comeandlivetherelaxedcountrylifestylesituatedon acolourfulandpicturesque 5acres(approx.)

Thehomeisfullofcharmandcharacterwithperiodfeaturesthroughoutandboasting3 greatsize bedroomswitha convenient,flexibleandfunctionalfloorplanwith 2bathroomsand astudy/office areawithextraspace.Thekitchenisfresh,spaciousandoffersplentyofbenchandcupboard space,theopenlivingandloungeareasare ahighlightandseamlesslyopenuptotheoutdoors showcasingthestunningmountainbackdrop.Thewholefamilywilllovetheexpansiveopenspace withapprox.5 acrestoexploreandenjoy,a horseenthusiastshavenwithseparatepaddocks, stables,roundyard,hayshed/machineryshedand adoublelockupgarage. Asuperbsmall acreageproperty,welllovedandwelllookedafterina stunninglocation.

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.

RusticFamilyhomeonover1/2acre

Experiencetherusticcharmofthismudbrickhome,craftedwithcarefrommaterialssourcedright ontheproperty.Theheartofthehomeisa sprawlingkitchenthatboastsa generouslysizedisland bench,amplestorage,and alargemealsarea.Offeringplentyofspacewitha hugemaster bedroomfeaturingtriplerobes,alongsidethreeadditionallargebedroomsthatcancomfortably accommodatemultiplebedsorbedividedtocreateextraroomsasneeded.A separatelivingarea nearthebedroomsprovidesanidealretreat,perfectforteenagersorextendedfamilystays.Seton atranquilhalfacreallotmentwithestablishedgardens,thereisamplespaceforchildrentoexplore andforyoutorelaxandunwind.Whetheryou’relookingfor apermanentresidenceora holiday retreat,thishomeisa greatchoiceforthoseseekinga blendofcomfort,charm,andnaturalbeauty.

$585,000 -$640,000

Quietcourtlivingwithmountainviews Ifquietcourtliving,northfacing,sunny,andneatasa pinhomearewhatisonyourbuyingcriteria, thenlooknofurther.Offering 2bedrooms,themainbedroomishugewithgenerousbuilt-inrobes andneutraltonesthroughoutwithlargewindowstoadmireyoursurrounds.Theloungeroomislovely andsunfilled,certainlytakingthemountainviewsforyoutoabsorbyourselfin.LuxuryVinylwood flooringthroughoutgivea modernfeelandlookwhilebeingconvenient.Thekitchenisquality timberthathasbeentastefullyupdatedandallowsenoughroomfora diningtablealso.Updated bathroom,plentyofstoragethroughout,anda greatlaundrywithcupboardsgalore.Outsideisa wellmaintainedyeteasygardentotinkeraroundin.Carportwithdirectentrytothehome,anda gorgeousverandatocompleteyourdayandtakeinallofyournaturalbeautythatsurroundsyou.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068 Inspection: Fri4:30-5:00pm 2 A 1 B 1 C

PUZZLES

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

ACROSS

1 Nonchalant (6)

4 Black birds (6)

10 Video effect (abbr) (3-2)

11 Storage tank (9)

12 Covered with plants (9)

13 Egyptian capital (5)

14 Continues to live (6)

15 Drop (4)

19 Needy (4)

20 Grab (4,2)

24 Abscond to marry (5)

25 Pleasure seeker (9)

27 Objects relating to the US (9)

28 Stage player (5)

29 Northern Ireland (6)

30 The capital of Spain (6)

DOWN

1 Buyer (8)

2 European country (8)

3 In the midst of (7)

5 Stone fruit (7)

6 Foreign; exciting (6)

7 Pulpit discourse (6)

8 Group of three (4)

9 Quake-triggered sea wave (7)

16 Row of computer icons (7)

17 Short-distance athlete (8)

18 Made an entrance (8)

19 Childish (7)

21 Buddhist ultimate state (7)

22 Illusion of having experienced something before (4,2)

23 Bumpkins (6)

26 Male pig (4)

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

3

5 LETTERS AEONS ALIAS ALIBI ALIEN ANTIC APART AREAS ARENA ASHEN ATONE

No. 192 No. 192

A champion’s final round

By Dongyun Kwon

Coldstream Boxing Club coach Hayden ‘HBomb’ Wright finally became a heavyweight champion of his hometown.

Wright had a TKO win against Indian boxer Ranjeet Singh in the second round at the Melbourne Pavilion on 22 June.

The champion said the title was special to him.

“I’m originally from Melbourne and I always trained here in Melbourne, so that [being a Melbourne champion] was like a lifetime achievement and goal for me,”Wright said.

“It’s very special to show my wife, kids and my boxing club kids that you can achieve your goals.”

The champion didn’t know he was going to fight until two days before the match.

“I had two original opponents pull out and I had covid on Tuesday of the week of the fight,” he said.

“And then they got me the number two ranked heavyweight in India, a really big Indian guy with a better record than me.

“He came in and he was more experienced. He was too fast for me.”

Wright was losing the first round on points, however, he came back in the second round starting to land some big power punches and hurt the opponent with a body punch.

Singh hurt his hand and finally fell down in the second round, which was the moment Wright became the new heavyweight champion of Melbourne.

The new champion announced his official retirement in the ring straight away and is now looking forward to the next chapter of his life.

Wright said he had reassessed where he was with his career, age, family and work one week leading up to the fight.

“I really wanted to go out with a win and I promised myself if I was going to win this, I

would definitely stop my boxing career. The best way to go out was by winning the boxing championship, the Melbourne title,” he said.

“I will continue with the gym [Coldstream

Boxing Club], work with more kids and possibly get a bigger venue. I will just keep it youthorientated, free and community-based.

“I’d like to say thank you to my two main

sponsors,HandsOnPlumbingandColdstream Cafe Roadhouse, that helped contribute to me in the club and made it possible.”

Sandown Park relay action close on racing circuit

By Jamie Strudley

A cold, windy Sandown Park was where the action was on Saturday as Athletics Victoria held round 5 of the XCR season. Always an athlete favourite, the road relays around the motor racing circuit provide for fast conditions despite bleak conditions…and it was cold there!

The men’s team, competing in Division 2, ran the division leaders close eventually just missing out on a victory by three seconds (about 15 metres). Led by an outstanding opening leg from Harry Norman, recording the day’s sixth fastest time of 18.29, we knew the team was in a battle with Sandringham from the gun. Strong legs from Max SavillBentley, Reuben Johnson and Angus Norman hadYRA within two seconds of the dominant Sandringham squad after four of the sixth legs. Tynan Mims ran a blinder to record 18.43 to then give James Laven a 16 second lead going into the final 6.2km leg. JL gave everything he had but could not hold out a strong finish from the Sandringham team. Easily our best team performance of the year and one that will have Sandringham watching over their shoulders in coming rounds.

The second men’s team of Sam Arnold, Luke Hunter, Daniel Groves and Matt Morrison were too good for other teams in their division, winning by a convincing 2.49 minutes while a third team ran exceptionally well to finish seventh in a competitive Div 7 grade. YRA’s women’s team was missing some of the regular members, but the enthusiasm and commitment of those selected was evident to see. A strong start from Olivia Twining was backed up by an awesome run from KatrinaWinger, Bonnie Morris continued her outstanding form to keep the team in the mix heading into the final leg. Rori Jones battled hard to the finish to record her best result of the season, anchoring the team to a surprise third place finish.

The Div 4 women’s team of Lis Coffey,

Carolyn Rosenbrock and Erica Purcell ran extremely well to bring the team home in sixth place in their 3 x 6.2km relay event.

YRA’s juniors only had to run one 3.1km lap of the circuit with the women’s U20 and U14 teams both running well. The Under 20 team of Maddie Laven, Brigette Rice and Zoe Clarke finished in a very close fourth place, while the Under 14 girls finished seventh. Unfortunately YRA had some late withdrawals in the men’s U16 team leaving Kimi Tove the only athlete running. Kimi ran a strong leg, finishing in 21st position.

Full results are:

Female Open Div 2 4x6.2km 3rd

· Olivia Twining: 22:39, Katrina Winger: 23:33, Bonnie Morris: 26:45, Rori Jones: 27:02

Female Open Div 4 3x6.2km 6th

· Elisabeth Coffey: 30:45, Carolyn Rosen-

brock: 30:40, Erica Purcell: 37:38

Female Under 20 3x3.1km 4th

· Madeline Laven: 11:12, Brigitte Rice: 11:12, Zoe Clarke: 11:56

Female Under 14 3x3.1km 7th

· Adele Ellis: 13:38, Lily Clarke: 13:45, Brienna Coffey: 13:50

Men Open Div 2 6x6.2km 2nd

· Harry Norman: 18:29, Max Savill-Bentley: 19:22, Reuben Johnson: 20:31, Angus Norman: 20:36, Tynan Mims: 18:43, James Laven: 19:04

Men Open Div 6 4x6.2km 1st

· Sam Arnold: 22:08, Luke Hunter: 21:17, Daniel Groves: 21:53, Matthew Morrison: 22:52

Men Open Div 7 4x6.2km 7th

· Craig Hewitson: 30:51, Bryan Ackerly: 29:18, Michael Clarke: 24:35, Trent Ashton: 24:49

Men Under 16 3x3.1km 21st

· Ilikimi Tove: 12:52

The Saturday morning cross country was at a very cold Margaret Lewis Reserve in Coldstream. School holidays and the cold conditions meant lower numbers but no less effort of enthusiasm. Great to see everyone improving and earning more chocolate frogs for a course PB.

Next Saturday is round 11 at Elizabeth Bridge, Kilsyth. See you there from 8.45am for warm ups! Anyone wanting to help set up please arrive earlier.

Results from round 9 at Lilydale Lake were:

· 500m

· Daisy Murphy 3.03; Maisie McLeod 3.23; Silas Dawson 3.23; Emily Cooke 3.36; Pippa Stark 4.1

· 1000m

· Ivy Ingle 5.23; Elliott Dawson 5.56; Angus Congreve 6.09; Jasper Dean 6.23; Harper Higham 6.38; Isla Higham 6.39; Aaron Zuo 6.55; Taylor Cox 7.07; Willliam Hastewell 7.27

· 1500m

· Milly Hall 6.41; Victoria James 7.01; Etta Thoma 7.43; Tillie Sommers 7.52; Georgia Cooke 7.59; Iola MacKay 8; Tahlia Dawson 8.3;Winter Anderson-Bonsor 8.36

· 2000m

· Theodore Lewis 8.53; Ilikimi Tove 8.54; Xander Sommers 9.18; Hugo Gibbs 9.27; Caitlyn McKerlie 9.42; Lexi Aders 9.44; Tess Hewatt 10.12; Pippa Congreve 10.32; Dominic Nealon 10.45; Alice Sabo 10.59; Zuri Dawson 11.35; Kirsten McKerlie 11.47; Eamon MacKay 11.54; Meadow AndersonBonsor 12.14; Ashleigh Christian 13.49

· 3000m

· Tim Anderson-Bonsor 12.57; Brienna Coffey 14.06; Mackenzie Graham 14.22; Adele Ellis 14.32; Bryan Ackerly 14.32; Tori Kincaid 14.44; Elizabeth Coffey 15.53; Bradley McMeeken 17.11; Bethany Vine 17.19; Charlotte Strachan 17.27; Archie Budin 12.34

Tess H competed in the latest round of the Victorian RoadWalking series on Saturday 22 June. Tess, competing in the Under 11 Girls 1500m walk, finished in an outstanding seventh place, recording 10.47. Nice work Tess. Cross country training for all club members is at Morrison Reserve on Tuesday evenings from 5.30pm and Thursdays from 5.30pm at the Victoria Road Primary School gym. Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability. New members and anyone interested in trialling are always welcome

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

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

Tess H walking to a seventh place finish.

Hayden ‘H-Bomb’ Wright won heavyweight championship of Melbourne on 22 June. Pictures: MARTY’S KNOCKOUT PHOTOGRAPHY Wright announced his official retirement in the ring.

Barkerettes blitz for win

By Peter Stephenson

Barkers (first) travelled to a chilly Bob Skilton Oval to take on Albert Park (ninth) hoping to maintain their two-point lead over Collingwood, but were missing Emily Stokes, Hannah Lee and Kelly Butera.

However, no excuses were required as Barkers began like no Barkers side has ever done before.To say they began well is an understatement. After just 80 seconds, Gracie Touliatos fired in a corner from the right to the far post, where Charlotte McCullough bundled the ball home for the opener.

Two minutes later, Zahra Goodman crossed from the right and McCullough made it 2-0.

Barely another two minutes had elapsed before Alizah Jones found herself free and took the ball wide, before cutting back in and shooting home to make it 3-0 after only five minutes.

The game then settled down a bit, to the relief of the shellshocked hosts, who had their first shot on 15 minutes, which went wide.

Respite was brief for Albert Park as the black tide surged again. A long punt forward found McCullough, who had all the time in the world to pick her spot, and finally decided that nutmegging the hapless keeper Paula Lizardo would be a nice way to get a hat-trick inside 21 minutes.

The Goal Machine finally decided to join

the youngsters on the scoresheet, and four minutes later, Jones played a one-two with Rebecca Brown on the left before finding Amy D’Ortenzio, who promptly scored her 235th Barker goal. Two minutes later, Jones held the ball up for Eleanor Ridley, who made it 6-0 with only 26 minutes on the clock.

Where would it all end? Here. Further chances fell to D’Ortenzio, Hannah Turnbull and probably others, but the score at the break remained, Albert Park 0-6 Barkers. The half could be summed up by noting that McCullough was in the right place at the right time, and Touliatos’s corners were causing havoc.

It must have been some team talk from the

home coach at half-time, because Albert Park came out and actually began to defend. Not only that, but on the hour they broke free, and Marthese Zahra’s shot saw Ashleigh Fraraccio get a hand to it, but it rolled into the net for 6-1.

Three minutes later Goodman put D’Ortenzio clear, but Lizardo blocked the shot. Further chances fell to Goodman and Ridley, and Fraraccio had to come out quickly to thwart a forward, but as the rain lashed down towards the end, Barkers couldn’t add to the score. Full time: Albert Park 1-6 Barkers. Barkers remain two points clear of Collingwood with seven games to play.

Skye’s no limit as the Barkers enjoy a wet away day

By Peter Stephenson

Way back in 2001, a youngster made his debut for Barkers. Almost 23 years later, Brett Tronconi has called time on a storied career, which has seen him play a record 282 games, score 31 goals, win a championship and two runners-up medals. From now on, Barkers would have to make do without the Flying Salmon.

Barkers (fourth) made the trek to a cold, rainy Skye United (10th) hoping to get back on track after a 1-3 loss at Hampton. Skye had never beaten Barkers in eight attempts, so this could be just the tonic they needed. Barkers made one change from last week, with Dan Burrows replacing Steve Nittoli.

After only two minutes, Barkers signalled their intent when Danny Aye put Geordie Scott in on goal, but keeper Steven Hadjikakou blocked well. Six minutes later, Barkers overhit a cross from the right, Aye chased the ball down and crossed low for Scott to score his 14th of the season and put Barkers on their way – 1-0.

On 10 minutes, a Barkers free kick was cleared out to Aye, who shot over. Then Scott fed Aaron Porcaro, whose shot was blocked by the keeper. After that Skye began to get into the game more, though Barkers were content to play a patient passing game. Just after the half-hour, the hosts’ Nhan Than hit a low ball from the right which Mark Naumowicz did well to cut out under pressure.

A minute later, Barkers thought they had doubled the lead when Aye hit a great ball from the left which was volleyed home by Burrows, but he was offside. Then a Barkers free kick on the left was cleared out to Chris Potter, whose magic wasn’t enough as he hit over from an acute angle.

A brief period of Skye pressure saw Than turn and shoot over, but Barkers regained the initiative before the break. First Aye was released and his shot was blocked by the keeper. Then a Burrows free kick found Aye, who fed Ross Clark, who was in on goal, but the keeper turned his shot over. Half-time: Skye 0-1 Barkers, with the visitors in control.

Three minutes into the second half, Barkers again made their supremacy count. An attack on the right wing saw the ball played to

the far side, Aye gave chase, got the ball, beat a defender and smashed a low acute shot to goal, which the keeper got his body behind, but it was so strong that the ball cannoned off the keeper into the roof of the net for 2-0. On 51 minutes, Christian Porcaro won a tackle and fed Scott, who played a one-two with Clark before shooting, but Hadjikakou was down well to save. In a very open game,

the next chance fell to Skye on the hour. A long ball was played from the left to the far post and was volleyed wide. Barkers looked comfortable as the game drew to its close. Clark hit the post, and then Sean Perrin found Ray Markley close in, but his attempted flick went over. Then Aye played the ball down the left for Perrin, who crossed for Ben Cooper to hit a low shot wide.

As the game went into stoppage time, a throw in from the left eventually found Cooper on the edge of the box. He simply danced through the defence and shot past the keeper for a very neat goal. Full time: Skye 0-3 Barkers. Barkers were never seriously threatened by Skye, and stayed in fourth, nine points off the promotion spots with nine games to

play.

Mooroolbark’s Ross Clark shields the ball from Skye’s Nhan Than.

Picture: JORDAN M SPORT

Brett Tronconi (left),pictured with fellow player Ross Clark,will be hanging up the boots after 282 games and 23 years at the Barkers. 242569

Picture: ROB CAREW

Brett Tronconi celebrating his 250th game.

Picture: MOOROOLBARK SOCCER CLUB