Mail - Upper Yarra Star Mail - 23rd July 2024

Upper Yarra

Students push limits

By Dongyun Kwon

Students across Victoria participated in the cross-country race at the Yarra Valley Racing Club on Thursday 18 July.

School Sport Victoria (SSV) hosted the 2024 State Cross Country Championships for the third time in Yarra Glen.

SSV chief executive officer Jamie Parsons said he appreciated support from the Yarra Valley Racing Club.

“We really love having this event here, the venue is fantastic as we have the grandstand and we’re also able to have the athletes use the racetrack to run the races,” he said.

“The people we work with atYarraValley Racing are wonderful.“

Primary school students had to get through the district, division and region levels while secondary school students started from the division level.

The top 12 performers in the region qualified to advance to the state championships.

Turn to page 10 for more

Two-pronged blitz

By Callum Ludwig

The Conservation Regulator and ParksVictoria have launched an operation to crackdown on the illegal harvesting of firewood in Victoria’s national parks and state forests.

Taskforce Ironbark is two-pronged, targeting firewood thieves while also aiming to empower firewood consumers to avoiding purchasing stolen wood supplied by illegal operators.

“We have seen a rapid rise in firewood-related damage on public land, and native trees are being stolen from Victoria’s forests and parks faster than they can be replaced, leaving our native birds, reptiles, and small mammals without crucial habitat,” Conservation Regulator’s Taskforce Ironbark Manager Brady Childs said.

“We formed Taskforce Ironbark to disrupt illegal commercial firewood operators and remind allVictorians they play an important role in preserving our forests and parks, protecting wildlife habitats, and reducing the harm associated with firewood theft.”

In 2023 alone, firewood thieves are estimat-

ed to have destroyed or damaged 9200 native trees and cleared roughly 462 hectares of forest.

Senior Manager of Enforcement at Parks Victoria Mark Breguet said illegal firewood theft is devastating local parks, forests, wildlife, and cultural heritage.

Continued page 5

Finally arriving at the final line. (Stewart Chambers: 420226)

Trees down, roads flooded

The Upper Yarra SES Unit was kept busy over the first few days of last week as persistent and heavy rain hit theYarra Ranges.

While neighbouring units in Lilydale and Emerald were the busiest in the state, the Upper Yarra crew had no shortage of incidents to attend including trees down, roads flooded, building damage and a rescue.

Corduroy Road, Settlement Road and Tarrango Road in Yarra Junction and Victoria Road, Wandin North at Stringybark Creek were among those that flooded, though road conditions were poor throughout the region.

Early in the evening on Monday, Lilydale SES unit controller Shaun Caulfield said the unit did respond to a vehicle submerged in water along Victoria Road in Wandin North but a rescue wasn’t required.

“That section of Victoria Road is actually quite hard to tell [if it’s flooded], you come over a crest, around a bend and the next minute, you’re in the water. So luckily, no injuries. We assisted the person to get out of the vehicle, but they didn’t need rescuing, per se,” he said.

A minor flood warning was issued on Monday 15 July which was elevated to a moderate flood warning for the Yarra River between Warrandyte and Millgrove as well as theWatts River on Tuesday and Wednesday as the rain continued to fall in theYarra Ranges.

TheYarra River between Millgrove and Coldstream sat at almost four metres on Tuesday 16 July and peaked at 5.07 metres, just below the moderate flood level on the evening ofWednesday 17 July. It remained high, at 4.87 metres throughout Thursday 18 July.

The rain event which increased from Monday 15 July through to the early hours of Tuesday morning, Mr Caulfield said, saw sharp bursts of heavy rainfall in specific locations.

“With the changes in our weather patterns, we’re not having more rain, we’re just having it in shorter bursts which seems to be the pattern of the last couple of years,” he said.

“So our average rainfall for the year might be a very similar amount but we seem to be getting it on less days.”

Power was also lost for many AusNet customers in Powelltown, with crews responding on Tuesday.

Crews anticipated arriving at 5.24am on Tuesday 16 July but were delayed.

51 customers were affected by the outage, with the reason for the outage having to be investigated.

Because of the persistent rainfall, Yarra Ranges Council were also forced to make the decision to close ovals and fields for training on Tuesday andWednesday, with assessments taking place on Thursday.

“Unfortunately due to the rainfall and the expected rainfall to come, our sports grounds have become unusable and would be at risk of further damage if used. As a result, sports grounds have been closed for training for 48 hours,” a Yarra Ranges Council spokesperson said on Tuesday.

Floods and wind hit Yarra Valley region hard

By Dongyun Kwon

The SES Healesville Unit was busy with callouts for the rainy weather.

The unit had to respond to approximately 20 callouts from Tuesday 16 July to Thursday 18 July.

Healesville SES controller Karen Picone said the unit dealt with a few building damages but mainly fallen trees across roads.

“We’ve had one tree on a building of Worawa [Worawa Aboriginal College]. It was a very big gum tree coming down onto their laundry storeroom,” she said.

“There was a large tree on Chum Creek Road.

“We can’t cut down trees, so if trees are on the ground, we only cut them up with the chainsaws and remove them off the road.”

Ms Picone said all roads are clear from floodwater now but asked the local community not to drive through floodwater.

“Lilydale has had to rescue people out of floodwater, it puts our members at risk when we’re trying to save other people,” she said.

A tree fell down on the Worawa Aboriginal College laundry storeroom. (Supplied)Healesville SES crew cutting up the tree fell down on Chum Creek Road. (Supplied)

SES crews attend to a large fallen tree. (SES Upper Yarra Unit)

The driver was taken to hospital.

Push to protect war memorials

By Callum Ludwig

Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence is continuing her push to implement stricter penalties upon people who desecrate war memorials following years of targeted attacks in the electorate.

Ms Vallence is pushing for the Victorian Government to consult with RSL Victoria and its sub-branches to find out their thoughts and the impact these incidents have on the veteran community as well as legislate harsher punishment.

Ms Vallence said an attack on any war memorial is an attack on Australian values and the heroic legacy of our veterans.

“Sadly, there has been an increase in desecration and vandalism of war memorials recently, including Yarra Ranges memorials in Montrose, Lilydale, Seville, and Mt Evelyn, it proves the existing penalty is inadequate and does not deter vandalism of such sacred places that commemorate service men and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice,” she said.

“The Attorney-General’s response is deeply disappointing and shows the Allan Labor Government is completely out of touch with community attitudes about such abhorrent vandalism of war memorials.”

In Attorney General Jaclyn Symes’ response to Ms Vallance on 4 July, she strongly con-

demned these actions of vandalism and recognised ‘the upset and disappointment’ they cause. Ms Symes’ response ‘ also cited the role of Victoria Police in investigating incidents and decidng if there is enough evidence to warrant a charge.

A Victorian Government spokesperson said acts of vandalism against memorials have no place in Victoria and they condemn it.

“Our veterans have contributed so much to Victoria and they deserve our ongoing recognition and appreciation,” they said.

“Existing property damage offences mean an offender can face up to ten years imprisonment for destroying or damaging property,”

“We’ll always monitor our laws and sentencing practices to ensure they’re meeting community expectations.”

War memorial desecrations are categorised like any other property damage offences in Victoria, with Ms Symes’ response also noting Victoria Police’s ability to prosecute offences in response to ‘this type of offending’

Under the Summary Offences Act 1966, offenders could face charges of 15 penalty units or three months imprisonment for defacing property or if charged with destroying or damaging property under the Crimes Act 1958 could face a maximum of 10 years imprisonment.

IN BRIEF

Early morning crash in Warburton

A man was taken to hospital after an early morning crash on the Warburton Highway. An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said paramedics responded to reports of a collision in Warburton at around 4am on 17 July 2024.

“One man was transported by road to Maroondah Public Hospital in a stable condition,” they said.

CFA units were alerted to the car accident at about 4.05am with units from Warburton and Wesburn-Millgrove attending the incident and found one car on its side, according to a CFA spokesperson.

“The driver had already been extricated, and was placed in the care of Ambulance Victoria,” they said.

“The scene was declared under control at 4.20am and the scene deemed safe at 4.25am.” SES andVictoria Police also attended the incident.

RAM truck recall

1,201 Model 2500 RAM TRUCKS with a year range of 2021-2022 have been recalled .

Due to a software issue with the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) may fail. This may result in a loss of vehicle control. A loss of vehicle control could increase the risk of an accident, causing injury or death to vehicle occupants and other road users.

Owners of affected vehicles should contact their local authorised RAM dealer to have ABS control module reprogram, free of charge.

Priceline gel cleanser recall

A gel cleanser sold nationally at Priceline pharmacies has been recalled.

The affected product is the Priceline & Clear Skincare Clinics Clear Skincare Exfoliating Gel Cleanser 150ml sold in a white pump bottle between 27 February and 10 July 2024.

Ms Vallance Victoria is lagging behind states like New South Wales and Tasmania, as well as the United Kingdom, who all have specific laws concerning the desecration of war memorials.

“This should be above politics, and the government should legislate tougher penalties as a matter of urgency to send a clear message to those who seek to dishonour the tremendous sacrifice of brave servicemen and women who defended our country and fought for our freedoms,” she said.

“I’ll keep up the fight and continue this campaign together with members of Lilydale and Mt Evelyn RSLs until we achieve positive change and reform the law.”

Attacks in Evelyn have largely included ‘tagging’ and theft; The Mafeking Tree had a 124-year-old plaque stolen

The Lilydale War Memorial was tagged with texta, which also happened to the Lillydale Lake Militia Camp Storyboard (also scratched), Mt Evelyn War Memorial (also had flag pole pulled down) and the Montrose War Memorial (also scratched and graffitied with political slogans on the eve of Remembrance Day).

The Mooroolbark War Memorial had a tile plaque stolen off the plinth which was later recovered in a park in Croydon while the Seville War Memorial had two glass panels shattered.

This product doesn’t comply with the mandatory standard for cosmetic ingredients labelling as the ingredient list is incorrect. There is a risk of allergic reaction if consumers are exposed to ingredients they are sensitive or allergic to. Consumers will not be able to check the ingredients list to identify the possible cause and seek appropriate treatment. Consumers should stop using the product and return to the place of purchase for a refund. Proof of purchase will be required.

For more information contact:

· If you purchased this product from Priceline or Priceline Pharmacy, info@priceline.com. au or by phone on 1300 88 44 11.

· If you purchased this product from a Clear Skincare Clinic, contact Customer Service on customerservice@clearskincareclinics.com. au or by phone on 1300442632.

Journeyman Shiraz recall

Brand New Vintage is conducting a recall of its Journeyman Shiraz 2021 with date marking L123214 . The product has been available for sale at Cellebrations, Bottle O and independent retailers including IGA Liquor in Victoria and other states. The recall is due to the presence of an undeclared allergen (sulphites). Any consumers who have a sulphites allergy or intolerance may have a reaction if the product is consumed. Consumers who have a sulphites allergy or intolerance should not consume this product. Consumers should return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. Any consumers concerned about their health should seek medical advice.

The damaged Seville War Memorial. (File)

Overnight helpers needed

By Callum Ludwig

Stable One is calling out for overnight volunteers to help service their winter shelters that provide respite for so many over the colder months.

Founded in theYarraValley, Stable One currently has seven venues across the state providing services for the homeless in Victoria.

Chief executive officer Katherine Kirkwood said they have a great team of approximately 150 volunteers, working hard to provide ‘more than a place to stay’ for those in need of accommodation and care this winter, however, we are still struggling to fill the overnight shifts. “Our overnight shifts run from 11pm to 6am, with the two volunteers on shift required to stay awake overnight, these are commonly our most difficult shifts to fill,” she said.

“Many of our dedicated volunteers are in an older age bracket, and hence recovering from a whole night awake is difficult, many others work a full-time job or have young families –not easy to take a day off to either prepare for or recover from an overnight shift,”

“We struggle to attract younger volunteers, who perhaps would be better able to stay awake – if all guests are tucked up in bed and it’s a quiet night, an overnight shift is a great opportunity to get some study done.”

The Stable One winter shelter network was founded by Jenny Willetts in 2017 when members of local Christian churches in Lilydale, Mt Evelyn,Wandin andYarra Glen banded together to address the absence of crisis accommodation in the Yarra Ranges.

Ms Kirkwood said Stable One’s Shelter Administrator Sharon has been working tirelessly to organise volunteers to fill the overnight shifts.

“Apart from some regular ‘gold star’ volunteers who proactively put their names down for overnights, to fill the roster involves a lot of emailing, calling, encouraging and, at times,

begging by Sharon,” she said.

“If overnight shifts aren’t filled, we simply don’t have a project, imagine welcoming guests into a warm space, providing them

Yarra Ranges Shire Council postal election

My council, my vote

You must be enrolled to vote

with good food, good company, an enjoyable evening and then having to ask them to leave at 11pm because we can’t staff the overnight shift, it’s unthinkable,”

A general election for Yarra Ranges Shire Council will be held in October 2024. To be able to vote in the election, you must be enrolled by the

categories of voters can be enrolled to vote in the Yarra Ranges Shire Council election: State-enrolled voters and Council-enrolled voters.

State-enrolled voters

Am I enrolled to vote?

You are automatically enrolled for this election if:

• you will be 18 years of age or over on Saturday 26 October 2024 and you live in Yarra Ranges Shire and you are on the State electoral roll for your current address.

You need to enrol if:

• you are an Australian citizen aged 18 or over on Saturday 26 October 2024 and

• you live in Yarra Ranges Shire and you are not on the State electoral roll or

• you have lived at your current residential address within Yarra Ranges Shire for at least a month and have not yet updated your enrolment details, including any changes to your postal address.

How do I enrol?

You can enrol online at vec.vic.gov.au

You can also download an enrolment form from the website. All enrolment applications must be received by the Victorian Electoral Commission by the close of roll at 4 pm on Wednesday 7 August 2024.

How can I check my State enrolment?

You can check your enrolment details online at vec.vic.gov.au at any time, or call 131 832.

Council-enrolled voters

Am I enrolled to vote?

To be a Council-enrolled voter, you must be:

• 18 years of age or over on Saturday 26 October 2024 and not a State-enrolled voter within Yarra Ranges Shire.

New rules mean you are no longer automatically enrolled if you are a non-resident property owner (e.g. a landlord or a business owner that pays rates). If you are a non-resident property owner within Yarra Ranges Shire, you need to apply to enrol if you wish to vote in the Yarra Ranges Shire Council election.

Who else can enrol & vote?

You may also apply to enrol if:

• you have purchased a rateable property within Yarra Ranges Shire since the last election but you are not a resident of Yarra Ranges Shire, or

• you are not an Australian citizen and you live in, and pay rates for, a property within Yarra Ranges Shire, or

• you pay rates on a property you occupy within Yarra Ranges Shire and have no other voting entitlement within Yarra Ranges Shire, for example you are a shop tenant and pay rates to the Council for your tenancy, and you have no other voting entitlement within Yarra Ranges Shire, or

• you are a director or company secretary of a corporation within Yarra Ranges Shire that pays rates to Yarra Ranges Shire Council and you have no other voting entitlement within Yarra Ranges Shire.

“Our guests are so, so grateful for the welcome and warm they find at the shelter, they have been brought to tears by the unexpected compassion and love that is shown to them by our volunteers.”

Up to 10 guests can be catered to overnight at a Stable One shelter. Overnight shifts run from 11pm to 6am, split into smaller shifts.

Ms Kirkwood said people were experiencing homelessness for so many reasons – they were ordinary people facing extraordinary challenges and there simply weren’t enough houses to go around.

“We are doing what we can with what we have to make a difference – churches of many denominations are working together, plus others from within the local community and we need to sustain a good number of volunteers to keep this important work going because it’s freezing outside.,” she said.

“There are many roles involved in running the shelter, overnight shifts are clearly are most difficult to fill, but there are also practical things like driving the mini-bus and moving the trailer we are short on volunteers for.”

There are also opportunities for volunteers to cook, help with the laundry, and fill morning and evening shifts.

All volunteers need to aged 18 years or older, need to hold a Working with Children Check, and need to complete some online training to prepare themselves for their role.

For those who aren’t able to physically volunteer, there is opportunities to support Stable One by purchasing an item from the ‘Shelter Shop’ such as sponsoring a bed night for $42 or by making a one-off or regular donation via the Stable One website.

Anyone interested in getting in touch or volunteering with Stable One’s Yarra Valley shelter can contact info@stableone.org or visit bttr.im/dqzk9 to register.

.

How do I apply to be a Council-enrolled voter?

If you meet any of the above criteria and wish to enrol, contact Yarra Ranges Shire Council on 1300 368 333 for a council enrolment form. Council enrolment forms must be received by the Council by the close of roll at 4 pm on Wednesday 7 August 2024

How can I check if I am Council-enrolled?

You can check your enrolment details by contacting the Council on 1300 368 333.

Thinking about standing for election?

To nominate as a candidate for Yarra Ranges Shire Council, you must:

• be an Australian citizen and enrolled on the voters’ roll for Yarra Ranges Shire Council and

• be eligible to become a councillor and

• have completed the mandatory candidate training provided by Local Government Victoria before lodging your nomination with the Election Manager.

For further information, visit vec.vic.gov.au

Enrolment closes 4 pm Wednesday 7 August 2024

State-enrolled voters can register for free VoterAlert SMS and email reminders at vec.vic.gov.au

L-R: Sisters and volunteers Jannie and Hetty van Leeuwen. (Supplied)

NEWS Foster a furry friend today

By Callum Ludwig

Forever Friends Animal Rescue (FFAR) is continuing to combat demand for services at capacity as our furry friends are consistently finding themselves left without a home.

According to the most recent PetRescue State of Pet Adoption Report for 2022-2023, rescue groups were the only participant (also including councils, vets and shelters) to not report a substantial increase in the number of pets adopted, indicating the high demand on these organisations.

Director and Founder of FFAR Saskia Adams said in the 16 years she’s been volunteering in the animal rescue sector, she’s never seen the plight of homeless animals in the community as dire as it is right now.

“Following Covid and the world returning to some normalcy, the number of animals being dumped and surrendered is unprecedented and devastating,” she said.

“Adoptions are also at an all-time low and animal welfare organisations like ours just don’t have enough resources to meet the need, and volunteers are burnt out and exhausted.”

90 out of 145 respondents in the Pet Rescue report rated their levels of compassion fatigue above a seven (on a scale from 1 being never to 10 being always) though 70 per cent still expressed ‘general satisfaction’ in their work.

Ms Adams said right now the number of

dogs and puppies they’re seeing dumped has skyrocketed.

“Some of these dogs entering our care are in terrible condition, emaciated from lack of ad-

equate nutrition, or they haven’t been taken to the vet for basic essential treatments so we are certainly seeing the cost of living crisis having an effect on animals too,” she said.

“Our number one need right now is to have more animal lovers in the community join our volunteer team as foster carers, every foster carer means another life saved,”

“Forever Friends provides all veterinary

Crackdown on the sale of illegal firewood

From page 1

“With nearly 10,000 trees destroyed last year alone, the impact is far-reaching, threatening the survival of native species and damaging irreplaceable Aboriginal cultural sites,” he said.

“Taskforce Ironbark is targeting these illegal activities and raising awareness among Victorians about the importance of sourcing firewood responsibly and by making informed choices, we can all help protect our parks and the vital habitats they provide.”

Illegally sourced firewood is commonly sold via online marketplaces, roadside stalls or word-of-mouth and often at cheaper prices to take advantage of the demand throughout winter.

Firewood Association Australia (FAA) General Manager Dane McGreevy said offenders quite often are breaking fences or gates to access parts of the state forests or private properties to access it.

“This unsupervised collection means that there are no concerns for the local biodiversity and environment, and also is usually performed in an unsafe manner, endangering other forest users,” he said.

“The firewood is almost always unseasoned, dirty and poor quality which means customers are buying wood not fit for the purpose of heating their homes, and can cause smoke issues in areas, and not provide the

heat that seasoned wood can,”

“Illegal operators that have the capability to harvest and sell commercial quantities are often not just a one-man operation, they are usually part of a larger crime syndicate that also partake in other criminal activities, consumers should be able to purchase fuel without worrying about their safety and having protection from consumer affairs as per any other purchase.”

Environmental damage from the illegal taking of firewood has been recorded in areas of the Yarra Ranges National Park, Yarra State Forest and Toolangi State Forest. River red gum trees are targeted across the state, while mountain ash and stringybark trees are the most commonly damaged in the Yarra and

Dandenong Ranges.

Mr McGreevy said if given a choice and with the appropriate knowledge of where the firewood has come from, customers would choose to purchase sustainable, and legitimate firewood from reputable merchants.

“The best way to identify illegal operators is by asking the questions of where they have sourced/purchased the firewood from, ask for a receipt and also if it is properly seasoned for at least 12 months,” he said.

“Often the suppliers will also rip off customers by short-selling the amount, so also ask how they have worked out the volume (cubic metres) or weight (tonnage) as there are specific ways to measure firewood found on the NMI website.”

The NMI website’s guidelines for selling firewood can be found here: industry.gov.au/ national-measurement-institute/trade-measurement/selling-firewood. Kinglake Friends of the Forest President Sue McKinnon said she thought te recent report from the Conservation Regulator seems a distraction from the ‘main issues’

“One is the Conservation Regulator’s lack of jurisdiction over DEECA [Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action] which is carrying out a 7500km linear logging project with of questioned legality and two, the negative health impacts of wood heaters,” she said.

care, food and toys to our foster carers, so there is no financial outlay and we also provide 24/7 behavioural and medical support if there are any issues, we want to set everyone up to succeed and make fostering fun.”

PetRescue’s report found the overall median days before adoption was 14.09 for cats and 20.94 for dog, an improvement from 15.7 for cats and 21.21 for dogs in 2021-22.

Ms Adams said volunteers can sign up to give respite, short-term or longer-term care to a rescue animal.

“We’re in particular need of puppy carers, and those with room for medium to large dogs at the moment, fostering can be anything from a weekend to several months, until an animal is adopted,” she said.

“Cats can be one of the easiest pets to foster, as there’s no chilly winter walks involved, and they do well in units and apartments, no matter your lifestyle, we can find a rescue animal to suit your situation,”

“While some people fear fostering would be too hard, as you would get attached to the animal and not want to give them up, we say that’s actually okay too, many of our foster carers end up adopting because it can be a great way to test the waters with a new family member before making a 15-year commitment.”

To find out more about fostering for FFAR, visit: foreverfriends.org.au/foster/.

“The theft of thousands of trees is devastating, and the Conservation Regulator is right to act, but why is the government only focussing on this problem of theft by individuals while failing to provide any oversight of the thousands of kilometres of linear logging being carried out by FFMV[Forest Fire Management Victoria]/DEECA for its socalled strategic fuel breaks,”

“The health impact of wood smoke is significant and well documented, the government should support people to stay warm without compromising their families’ health.”

Ms McKinnon refers to the ongoing protesting from environmental groups including Kinglake Friends of the Forest,Warburton Environment and Forest Conservation Victoria against the fire risk reduction works for FFMV, which involves the removal of trees in state forests and national parks and was recently responsible for the death of an endangered Greater Glider which the Star Mail has reported on.

Ms McKinnon also cited a fact sheet from wood heaters by the New South Wales Government which identifies the risks from shortterm and long-term exposure to wood smoke, as well as who is most vulnerable, alternatives to wood heaters and what can be done to reduce if you do use a wood-burning heater.

For more information on responsible sourcing of firewood, visit: vic.gov.au/sourcing-firewood.

Forever Friends’ volunteer Darren Freeman holding one of many recent homeless puppies who have entered their care. (Saskia Adams)

Forever Friends Founder Saskia Adams wth another puppy in need of a home. (Lachlan Barnard)

State forests and national parks have been targeted by firewood thieves. (File)

New limits on machines

By Callum Ludwig

The Victorian Government announced on Friday 12 July that from 30 August this year, it will be mandatory for the gaming machine areas of pubs and clubs to close between the hours of 4am and 10am.

The Gambling Legislation Amendment Bill 2023 was discussed in October 2023 and received bipartisan support, other than the Victorian Opposition seeking a small amendment to the legislation to ensure it doesn’t disadvantage venues within three kilometres of Melbourne’s Crown Casino.

Community Engagement Officer for the Financial and Gambling Support Services at EACH Penny Christie said EACH and Gamblers Help welcome the change and are really pleased theVictorian government is starting to take it seriously.

“‘One of the issues has been that people who do have a problem with gambling have been able to go from venue to venue because the hours have been staggered in various gaming venues, so that allows people to go from one venue to another venue if they wish to continue gambling, which can be all part of an addiction,” she said.

“Now there’s a circuit breaker and for people who have got themselves into gambling difficulties, this might be something that might help to stop them in their tracks because they’re not allowed to continue to gamble,”

“It’s not probably as long as we would have liked them to be closed, but it’s a great start.”

EACH is the Gamblers Help operator for the LGAs of Yarra Ranges, Knox and Maroondah, providing a free program through trained therapeutic and financial counsellors for anyone experiencing gambling harm, or other people who may also be affected such as a gambler’s family members or friends.

Ms Christie services the Outer East, speaking at schools or community groups like Probus Clubs, working with homelessness and mental health organisations and partnering with the local councils and Eastern Health. In the Inner and Outer East, there is a Gamblers Help team of 26 people, highlighting the prevalence of this concern in the region.

Ms Christie said gambling has a ripple effect.

“The effect of gambling is not just on the person who’s gambling, it affects partners, work colleagues, friends and family members, if one person is negatively harmed by gambling then the effect can trickle down to 10 or more other people,” she said.

“For families it can have a considerable impact, you can imagine the financial impact without any of the other things, like the

emotional toll, depression and anxiety and all the other mental health issues that go with it,”

“But the support from families and friends is absolutely imperative to help these people with a very difficult addiction to deal with.”

The change is part of sweeping gambling reforms announced by the Victorian Government in July 2023, which also included mandatory pre-commitment limits and carded play for gaming machines, capping load-up limits at $100 and making it mandatory for all new gaming machines to spin at three seconds per game to slow down the speed at which money can be lost.

Ms Christie said it’s the people who struggle with gambling issues that the change will be helpful for while the majority of people will conntibue to be responsible gamblers, not that she likes that term.

“Things like carded play, where you actually have to try and predestined how much you’re planning to spend and play from a card rather

than the ability to be able to put coins or notes into the machines, in many ways might make a difference as well in making it more difficult for people that have a significant problem,” she said.

“There is an enormous amount of stigma and shame attached to gambling, at Gamblers Help, we have a group of people who’ve managed to kick the habit of gambling and they talk to community groups and things as lived experience speakers and some of those are said to me on occasions that they’d rather identify as being drug addicts or alcoholics than have a gambling problem,”

“There is so little tolerance in the community for people to recognise that gambling is equally as addictive as these other things, people feel they should just be able to control themselves and stop gambling but it is a true addiction like any other.

To get in touch with EACH’s Gamblers Help program, contact them at 1300 131 973 or GHEIntake@EACH.com.au or visit gambler-

shelp.com.au.

Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Melissa Horne said providing people with a break in play is an important gambling harm prevention measure.

“It gives people a chance to step out of the zone and consider how much time and money they’re willing to lose,” she said.

“Victoria’s enforcement of gaming room closure times will protect those most vulnerable to gambling-related harm.”

During the debate of the legislation in October 2023, Eildon MP Cindy McLeish also contributed to the conversation according to the Parliament of Victoria website.

Ms McLeish said we have a huge incidence of domestic and family violence in this state, and gambling does have a little role in that.

“There is the hidden nature of gambling and domestic violence or intimate partner violence, and in situations when a partner has gambled, the stresses in those households are particularly high,” she said.

Horror period as more lives lost on roads in Victoria

In what Victoria Police have described as a horror period on Victorian roads, July has seen many fatal road accidents bringing the total lives lost to 158 this year.

Yarra Ranges, Knox and Maroondah local government areas have lost eight lives in this last month, three pedestrians, two drivers, one motorcyclist and one cyclist.

Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said in a statement to the media on 11 July that it’s been a horrific period on our roads.

“We’re issuing an urgent plea to all motorists to please, take extra care on the roads. Now is not the time to be complacent – this should absolutely be cause for concern for everyone,” he said.

There have now been 14 lives lost in the first 11 days of July and it marks the worst start to July since 2008, when 14 lives were lost across the state in the first 11 days of that month.

Motorcycle accidents are of particular concern – with 38 riders losing their lives in the 2023-24 period which is up from 21 people the year before.

According to data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) among adult men, those aged 19–24 were most likely

to be hospitalised for transport injuries.

For motorcycle riders, the injury rate was highest in men aged 19 to 24 (close to 200 injuries per 100,000) and decreased with age.

While factors in these recent collisions are still under investigation, police are urging everyone to take extra care on the roads.

Assistant Commissioner Weir said that far

too often police are seeing simple mistakes, like being slightly over the speed limit, or a split second of inattention, resulting in these catastrophic outcomes.

“We’re committed to doing everything we can to drive down the rising trauma on our roads, but we can’t do this alone. Everyone has a responsibility on the roads,” he said.

Motorists should consider slowing down and maintaining a safe braking distance, especially during periods of wet weather when roads are often slippery.

Poor visibility due to reduced daylight hours during winter can make it more difficult to see and be seen, so pay extra attention to your surroundings and avoid distractions, like mobile phones, while driving.

Avoid driving fatigued by taking regular breaks when travelling longer distances, and never get behind the wheel if you’re impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Police are determined to drive down the rising road trauma and will prioritise road policing enforcement across the state throughout the month.

For more information and tips for staying safe on the roads visit the Road Safety page on the Victoria Police website.

Police are determined to drive down the rising road trauma and will prioritise road policing enforcement across the state throughout the month. (300426)

The gaming machines areas of venues will be shut between 4am and 10am from 30 August. (File)

New plans get tails waggin’

By Callum Ludwig

Yarra Ranges Council is calling on dog-owning residents of the region to help guide a 10-year People and Dogs in Parks Plan, which will set out future planning for dogs owners and their access to public open space.

It will the first plan of its kind for Yarra Ranges Council, helping to provide a standardised approach to planning and create provisions for off-leash areas.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Sophie Todorov said that Council played a key role in the planning and provision of dog off-leash areas for the community.

“We know how important dogs are to their owners, they’re considered part of the family and provide companionship, encourage exercise and support mental health and wellbeing,” she said.

“It’s because of this that we need to ensure that we have the space and infrastructure for residents and their dogs not just for now, but for the future given the expected population growth in Yarra Ranges,”

“As always it’s about balancing the needs for dogs in open space, as well as the needs of the broader community, so we’re really open to hearing what’s working, and what could be improved in future for our dog friendly areas.”

Initial engagement will help Yarra Ranges Council to create a draft plan, which will be published for further engagement from the community before a revised plan can be adopted by the council.

Nicole Murray is the president of Yarra Ranges Dogs (YaRD), a social dog walking group associated with Wesburn Park with about 400 members, and said they are happy that the council is looking into dogs and parks and that they are formulating a plan for off lead dog parks.

“We urge all dog owners to fill in the sur-

vey, contributing ideas about what they would like to see in their own local park, every area is different and will have different requirements regarding population and land use,” she said.

“There are a number of dog parks in the built-up areas of the council hinterland however very few in the Upper Yarra and I would hope the Dog Park Planning Team would understand and even seek to maintain fairness in local park access for all residents across the Yarra Valley,”

“We look forwarding to working with the council on this plan.”

Treat them with respect

Ambulance Victoria (AV) is urging Victorians to treat paramedics and call takers with respect when they see them at an emergency incident or in the community.

There have been 105 reported incidents resulting in injury from July 2023 to March 2024.

Recent incidents include:

· A paramedic was grabbed and punched in the face by a patient they were treating.

· A paramedic suffered a dislocation after a patient became aggressive.

· Paramedics harassed and followed by a man outside of a Melbourne hospital, who was threatening to assault them.

Additionally, our people are often exposed to situations involving verbal assault, swearing and name calling. This escalating behaviour can result in paramedics pausing their treatment or withdrawing from the scene or terminating a call.

AV’s Executive Director of Regional Operations Danielle North said violence against paramedics is never OK and they do not accept this behaviour as part of the job.

“We know emergency situations can be stressful for people, but this is no excuse to behave aggressively towards paramedics,” she said.

“We are aware of several serious occupational violence incidents recently across the state and it is timely that we remind the community again that violence against paramedics, first responders and call takers is never OK.

“Our top priority is the safety of our paramedics and first responders, and they have our full support to leave an incident if they ever feel unsafe.

“Assaulting or berating a paramedic will not help them do their job any quicker.”

For paramedics to provide quick and effective treatment for you or your loved one, they need a safe environment to work in.

Paramedics are fully supported by AV in reporting their experience with police.

Injuring an emergency worker in Vic-

Ambulance Victoria is calling on Victorians to treat paramedics and call takers with respect. (File)

toria is a Category 1 offence and carries a mandatory minimum six-month jail sentence.

Mildura Paramedic Brodie Thomas has been physically assaulted and spat on while working and is calling on the community to stamp out this behaviour.

“If you ever need us, please know that we are doing our very best to help you,” he said.

“We know the majority of our patients and community members do not behave this way, but it only takes one incident to cause serious physical or mental harm.

“More and more often, paramedics are carrying a heightened cognitive load when they arrive at incidents; having to constantly make dynamic risk assessments knowing there’s a chance they could be harmed.”

Paramedics are trained in a variety of strategies to assess, manage and de-escalate violent or aggressive scenes, but ideally paramedics shouldn’t need to use these skills.

AV is committed to exploring ways to reduce and prevent occupational violence and our people are encouraged to report every instance of this behaviour.

For more information on the impact of occupational violence on paramedics and how you can help, visit www.ambulance. vic.gov.au/campaigns/respect-our-paramedics.

Community members have until Thursday 8 August to provide feedback.

Ms Murray said they would like to see more off-lead dog parks, of different calibres, available to dog walkers in this area.

“Our members have expressed the desire for various things over the years including fencing (to protect both dogs and walkers from the cars and other stakeholders), access to seating and pathways, structures (providing shade) and water,” she said.

“Whilst Council seeks to avoid fencing off dedicated user group areas, this already hap-

pens for other activities such as equestrian, mountain biking, playgrounds and ball sports, an off-lead dog park, by name, is already single use and fencing such an area will not change that fact,”

“It does, however, protect dogs from external influences such as vehicles, horses, bikes and the odd ball flying into the space, not to mention the occasional kangaroo or wallaby bouncing through and more recently, visiting deer.”

For more information and to have your say, visit shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/dogsparks.

Small acts make a big impact.

Putting recycling in the bin loose and not in plastic bags means more of it can be turned into new things.

Recycling in plastic bags cannot be sorted because the bags can damage equipment at sorting facilities and present a safety risk to staff. Visit www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/waste

Have your say on the provisions for dogs and owners in Yarra Ranges parks and open spaces. (File)

NEWS Cheers to $24m grape crush

The Australian winegrape crush increased year-on-year by 9 per cent in 2024 to an estimated 1.43 million tonnes according to the NationalVintage Report 2024 released byWine Australia, having surveyed 711 winemakers around the country.

Vintage 2024 follows a 23-year low crush in 2023 and, despite the growth, this year’s crush is still well below the 10-year average of 1.73 million tonnes.

Wine Australia’s Manager of Market Insights Peter Bailey said there had been a declining trend in the Australian winegrape crush over the past few years.

“This is the third vintage in the past five that has been below the 10-year average. As a result, we’ve seen the five-year average decrease by over 100,000 tonnes in the past two years,” he said.

“However, the reduction in the crush doesn’t necessarily reflect a decrease in the underlying supply base. There is no indication that the vineyard area has declined significantly, so the potential for a large crop still exists without active management of yields.”

In theYarraValley, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay were far and away the dominant varieties purchased, recording 1829 and 1571 tonnes respectively. Shiraz (151 tonnes) and Pinot Gris/ Grigio (134 tonnes) were the only other varieties in the region to have sold over 100 tonnes. They also accounted for the vast majority of winery-grown fruit (2068 tonnes of Pinot Noir, 1366 tonnes of Chardonnay) though Shiraz (405 tonnes), Cabernet Sauvignon (237 tonnes) and Pinot Gris/Grigio (205 tonnes) made up the other more significant features. In total, 3897 tonnes of Pinot Noir and 2937 tonnes of Chardonnay grapes were crushed accounting for an estimated value of $11,654,767 and $7,428,116 respectively. Shiraz was the only other variety to account for over $1 million in value from the Yarra Valley at $1,353,716.

The dominant varieties also saw a reduction in price since the last report, with Pinot Noir dropping by one per cent to an average of $2990 per tonne while Chardonnay dropped 5 per cent to an average per tonne value of $2529. Nonetheless, $5,469,432 of Pinot Noir and $3,974,176 of Chardonnay were purchased from the Yarra Valley.

Overall, 2217 tonnes of red wine and 1817 tonnes of white wine was purchased from the Yarra Valley, for a total of 4034 tonnes at a value of $10,947,952 ($6,379,286 of red and $4,568,666 of white).

Of winery-grown grapes, 3154 tonnes of red grapes and 1782 tonnes of white grapes were produced for a total of 4936 tonnes. Adding purchased wine led to a grand total of 8971 tonnes of grapes crushed (rounded up), with red accounting for 5371 tonnes and white 3599 tonnes. The total value of all grapes in the

YarraValley was $24,013,028 ($15,041,186 from red, $8,971,842 from white) with the overall change in price of red (up one per cent) and white (down 4 per cent) seeing an overall two per cent (rounded up) reduction in prices over the year.

The overall year-on-year increase in the crush was 112,000 tonnes. This was driven entirely by white winegrape varieties, which increased by 117,000 tonnes (19 per cent) to 722,000 tonnes. Despite the 19 per cent increase, the white varieties crush was still 10 per cent below the 10-year average and the second smallest in 17 years.

The crush of red grapes declined by just under 5000 tonnes (1 per cent) to 705,000 tonnes, the smallest since the drought-affected 2007 vintage, and 40 per cent below its peak of 1.2 million tonnes in 2021.

The white winegrape share of the crush increased to 51 per cent – the first time since 2014 that the white crush has been higher than the red crush.

“The overall reduction in the red crush is entirely driven by Shiraz, which decreased by nearly 48,000 tonnes while most other red varieties increased. This decrease was not just from the inland regions, with the Barossa and

Clare Valleys accounting for one-third of the reduction,” Mr Bailey said.

“Seasonal factors have contributed to 2024 being another small vintage. However, the significant further reduction in the red crush can be largely attributed to decisions made by grapegrowers and wine businesses to reduce production. These decisions are being driven by low grape prices, significant red wine stock overhangs and reduced global demand for wine.”

Chardonnay increased by 31 per cent to 333,000 tonnes, overtaking Shiraz to resume the title of largest variety by crush size that it last held in 2013. Shiraz decreased by 14 per cent to 298,000 tonnes – its smallest crush since 2007.

South Australia accounted for the largest share of the national crush size (49 per cent) but decreased by 4 per cent and lost 6 percentage points of share to the other states. All other states except Western Australia increased their crush compared with 2023, with Tasmania increasing by 42 per cent to a record estimated crush of 16,702 tonnes.

The grape crush value of the 2024 vintage is estimated to be $1.01 billion, a 2 per cent increase over the previous year. This was a result of the 9 per cent increase in the tonnage being offset by an overall decrease in the average value from $642 per tonne to $613 per tonne.

Across the warm inland regions, both reds and whites declined by 5 per cent in average value, while in the cool / temperate regions there was a small increase (3 per cent) in whites, while the average value for reds was flat.

Mr Bailey said that the overall decline in the average value was mainly driven by a decrease in average grape prices paid for both red and white grapes from warm inland regions, combined with an increase in the share of tonnes from these regions.

“It’s important for growers to look at the price changes for individual regions and varieties, to get a true picture of the market signals. However, the overall 2024 results, particularly the on-going decline in prices for the major inland varieties, indicate that there is no shortfall in supply from the inland regions, despite the successive low vintages,” he said.

Mr Bailey noted that a better understanding of the underlying supply base was critical to enable growers and winemakers to make informed decisions regarding future grape production requirements.

“We welcome the recent announcement of the Grape andWine Sector Long-termViability Support Package from the Australian Government, which will support the development of a national vineyard register framework to help give the sector a clearer picture of the true supply nationally.”

Locals urged to help shape Millgrove’s future

By Callum Ludwig

The Millgrove Resident’s Action Group (MRAG) is inviting residents of the town to take part in a community planning day on Sunday 28 July.

MRAG is working towards their third Community Plan, having developed their first in 2015 and an updated one in 2021 and wants the wider communities’ thoughts to help guide the future direction of the town.

MRAG Committee Member Kate Baselier said having those plans in place has been very beneficial for Millgrove.

“It helped us to get funding to realise the newly opened Courtney Dix Walking Trail, as well as creating a new Avenue of Honour, walking paths along Gillis Road, Cavanagh Road and the Warburton Highway and having embankments on either side of the Yarra River reinforced; just to name a few,” she said.

Organised by MRAG, the afternoon will be run by local independent facilitators Hatrick and Co with the intention of being a fun and interactive way for all ages to come together and build on the great work that has already taken place over the past 20 years MRAG has served the community.

The upcoming community planning event is looking to combine the existing plans (including a Resilience Plan MRAG also launched in 2021), incorporate a future

vision paper and create one ‘master plan’ of projects and ideas to reach an agreed vision for Millgrove, which can then be prioritised according to need and an implementation

strategy developed.

MRAG President Maureen Hailt said this event will bring together all these amazing people for the common good of Millgrove and its future development.

“We have outstanding community groups striving to meet the needs of its citizens, to uplift them and to provide an inclusive community,” she said.

The community planning event will be held from 1.30pm to 5.30pm in the Millwarra Community Building, near Millgrove Primary School with light refreshments available throughout the afternoon and hot soup available at the conclusion of the event.

MRAG Vice President Phil Pomaroff said this will be the most important and significant event since he has lived in Millgrove.

“It will bring all our community leaders and interested residents together to plan a vision for Millgrove’s future,” he said.

The event has been supported by Yarra Ranges Council.

Interested participants can register by visiting mrag.net.au/township-planning, or email to info@mrag.net.au

Millgrove Resident’s Action Group members at work on a giant local map. (Supplied)

Wine Australia’s annual National Vintage Report has been released. (File)

Prepare to make a switch

By Dongyun Kwon

Healesville Community Renewable Energy (HCoRE) is inviting locals to its free community event to help community members prepare for switching to an all-electric home.

The event Prepare to Switch will be held in The Memo in Healesville from 7pm to 9pm on Monday 5 August.

HCoRE president Karen Roberts said HCoRE has been running a series of free community events since the beginning of the organisation in 2017.

“The renewable energy transition, that we’re all going through at the moment, is about preparing people to switch their home to electricity,” she said.

“We’re trying to move away from using fossil fuels such as gas and go to electricity, which eventually can be powered by clean energy.”

The event will have two speakers, Rewiring Australia managing director Kate Minter and Tim Forcey from My Efficient Electric Home followed by Q and A, and a light supper.

Rewiring Australia is a positive climate nonprofit organisation that advocates for households in the energy system.

“Rewiring Australia was started by Dr Saul Griffith who is an inventor and engineer,” Ms Roberts said.

“He’s lived in America for about 20 years and helped them a lot with their transition to renewable energy.

“Rewiring Australia is like an umbrella organisation for community renewable energy groups such as HCoRE and it’s really great that we’ve got Rewiring Australia to bring us all together.”

Kate Minter is a social researcher and campaigner and works across Rewiring Australia’s advocacy, community and research work.

She will explain why Australians all need to take action now.

My Energy Efficient Electric Home (MEEH) is a Facebook group started in 2015 by Tim Forcey, which now has over 120,000 members. It is a leading database of readily searchable information about improving the comfort and energy performance of Australian homes.

“He [Tim Forcey] will show you what you can do and how you can start changing over your appliances,” Ms Roberts said.

“When your appliances are due to be replaced, Tim can help you plan it so you can make more informed choices.”

The booking for the event is required and can be made at the HCoRE’s website, healesvillecore.org.au/civicrm/event/ info/?reset=1&id=35 or via the QR code on the posters in Healesville.

The event will be held in The Memo in Healesville on Monday 5 August. (File: 271901)

250 games for Michele

By Dongyun Kwon

Yarra Glen Football Netball Club’s (YGFNC) C grade player Michele Young marked a significant milestone.

The defender played her 250th game for the club on Saturday 20 July.

Young said she was “excited and grateful” to get to the milestone.

“Fortunately, I’ve not had any long-term injuries and I’ve been able to continue playing until this age,” she said.

“I am the second person at the club to reach 250 games.

“That’s very special to be able to do that.”

The 62-year-old woman, who will turn 63 in two weeks, is still in good and fit form.

She said having a good diet is one of her tips for keeping fit.

“I’m very conscious of what I eat, I don’t smoke,” Young said.

“I do a lot of exercises, I go water skiing, I’ve run a couple of half marathons.

“I’ve got good genes as well and I got my parents to thank for that, having my parents both well into their late 80s. They’re also very fit and well.”

The netball player has been a mothering figure to lots of girls in the club, especially girls who have come from backgrounds that don’t have family or parental support.

Young said winning is important in sport but it’s not all about winning.

“It’s also about the friendship and the connection that you make with the community, those people you play with and those people who are involved in the club,” she said.

“I’ve had a number of girls that have called me mum and have reached out to me for life advice support along the way.”

Young got into netball when she was in primary school as a school sport, and she joined

the local junior netball club, Taylors Lake, in the Wimmera Country Football Netball League, which was a similar league to the Outer East Football Netball League.

She joined the YGFNC in 2006.

“When I moved down to Melbourne to do nursing and met my partner, my husband now, and we moved to Yarra Glen,” she said.

“I could see the similarities of where I’d grown up playing netball in a country league and wanted to continue playing sport, predominantly netball, in that country league environment.

“So, I joined Yarra Glen, wanting to be part

of the local community.”

Young has devoted to the club not only as a player but also by taking multiple roles.

She was a committee member for about 10 years and vice president for seven years as well as won seven premierships as a player.

Young said she finally lifted a trophy in 2014.

“We made three grand finals and lost every one of them before we finally did win a premiership,” she said.

Her whole family is getting involved in the club as a player, a coach or a supporter.

Young has won one premiership with her both sisters playing together and her daughter as a coach in 2016.

“Winning a premiership playing with my both sisters in 2016 was a very special memory,” she said.

“Last year, I won another premiership playing with my daughter, and my granddaughters were there and they were old enough to re-

member that.”

Young was also involved in setting up the Net Set Go program which is a starter program for local kids to learn the netball basics while having fun.

“One of those girls that I taught in the Net Set Go program as a four or five-year-old is now our club trainer,” she said.

“One of the other girls is now playing in our D grade team.”

Young wants to win one more premiership this year with her daughter.

She said she may retire at the end of this season.

“I’m probably coming to a point of retiring,” Young said.

“I’m still working full time and I work a 10hour shift on Thursday and then try to get to netball training and an hour’s drive home. It’s such a struggle.

“It’d be nice to finish off with a premiership.”

Yarra Valley Racing Club crowded with students

By Dongyun Kwon

Students across Victoria participated in the cross-country race at the Yarra Valley Racing Club on Thursday 18 July.

School Sport Victoria (SSV) hosted the 2024 State Cross Country Championships for the third time in Yarra Glen.

SSV state championships officer Howard Louis said about 1800 students came to the event for the race.

“It brings a lot of people through to this area that might not have been to this area,” he said.

“We’vegoteightregionsacrossthestateattending, we’ve got people as far as Warrnambool, Bairnsdale and beyond, and up to the north Mildura, Swan Hill and Echuca.

“Everybody seems to be fairly happy because it’s not raining.”

Primary school students had to get through the district, division and region levels while secondary school students started from the division level.

The top 12 performers in the region qualified to advance to the state championships.

Yarrawonga College P-12 Year 11 student Jordan Ibbott took 8th place in the Hume region competition.

“My parents encouraged me to run at a young age and I’ve continued it through school,” he said.

“I’ve learnt to be resilient from cross country.”

Another Year 11 student from Canterbury Girls’ Secondary College Sophia Hamilton said she has gotten into cross country through school.

“It [the race course] was really muddy, so it wasn’t like what I was expecting,” she said.

“I didn’t go to the regional competition but I went to the division.

“I came third and they said I could go home because my time was fast enough.”

It was the second time Milly Smyth, a Year 11 student from Norwood Secondary College, participated in the state

championship competition.

She said she was happy with the result of seventh place because she made an improvement compared to the competition last year where she took 18th place.

“It was a bit tough in the conditions with all the mud but it was a good race,” she said.

“I came first at the regional competition and it was at the same place here about three weeks ago.

Smyth also got into cross country through school like Hamilton.

She said she learnt a lot about mindset.

“If you have your mind to it, you can im-

prove at any point,” Smyth said.

“I enjoy the fitness aspect of cross country and it helps with all my other sports as well.”

The event was held in Bundoora before Covid-19 and the venue has been relocated to Yarra Glen since the pandemic was over.

SSV chief executive officer Jamie Parsons said he appreciated support from the Yarra Valley Racing Club.

“We really love having this event here, the venue is fantastic as we have the grandstand and we’re also able to have the athletes use the racetrack to run the races,” he said.

“The people we work with at Yarra Valley

Racing are wonderful.

“There is one more national level competition, it’s happening here on this racecourse in a few weeks’ time and there will be representatives coming from around Australia.”

The following is the list of the local students who participated in the race; Zoe K from Mt Evelyn Christian School, Sophie B and Declan Z from Yarra Valley Grammar School, Ollie D from Emerald Primary School, Bradley M from Yarra Ranges Special Developmental School, Oscar W from Monbulk College and Kail F, Daniel G,

J and David T from Mooroolbark College.

Reuben

Chris Soumilas with his grandson Bobby from Drouin PS who competed in the 12-13 year 3km run. (Stewart Chambers: 420226)

Sophia Hamilton. (Dongyun Kwon: 420447)

Jordan Ibbott. (Dongyun Kwon: 420447)

Michele Young (left) and her daughter Lauren Bull, both won premierships in 2014. (Supplied)

In 2016, Young won a premiership with her sisters playing together, Kim Christian (left) and Leesa Lowery (middle right) and her daughter Lauren Bull was the head coach (right).

Young’s granddaughters Sophie Bull (left), Chloe Bull (front), her sister Kim Christian (right) and Young (middle) in 2023.

Championships await

By Callum Ludwig

While Australians are waving off a team of athletes before the start of the Olympics in Paris this week, another team of competitors in a more niche sport is preparing to compete in their own worldwide competition just over the English Channel a month later.

The Roundnet World Championship is taking place in Guildford, England from 29 August and Outer East expat and roundnet enthusiast Alex Capp will be representing Australia.

Mr Capp coordinated and promoted games in the outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne before recently moving to London and said he first found out about the sport of Roundnet back in 2015 when he was introduced to the sport on a beach at a Youth Camp.

“I played casually for a handful of years at camps, Youth Group and with friends before being offered a job in 2018 by my now wife’s cousin, James Docking who heads up Spikeball Australia,” he said.

“I worked alongside James as the Sports Development Officer and State Tournament Director for Victoria for about four years and as a result I got involved a lot more in the competitive scene of Roundnet and Tournament directed numerous tournaments across the country in Adelaide, Hobart, Sydney and Melbourne.”

Roundnet, also known as Spikeball which is the name of the sports brand that makes kits to play the game, involves two teams of two players each, a small trampoline-like net and a small ball.

Mr Capp said there are lots of things he loves about the sport of Roundnet.

“On one side of the coin, there is the competitive and high-level side of the sport which more recently has been the thing that has captured my attention and enjoyment through the fast-paced, high-intensity level of gameplay, displays of athleticism and working together

with your teammate to get some good defensive touches and rallies,” he said.

“However, over the now seven or so years of playing, some of the most satisfying and enjoyable moments I can remember have been through the small things of seeing the excitement, happiness and joy that comes across people’s faces (of all ages) when they ‘catch the bug’ for the sport,”

“Seeing a young Grade Three student in a school get their first taste at success in a sport through encouragement and seeing the development in their roundnet skills in even one session is so lifegiving and the same goes for adults.”

Best played in open space on beaches or in

parks, the sport is similar to a combination of beach volleyball and four-square/downball, with teams starting on opposite sides of the net for a serve. After the ball is served, there are no boundaries with players and teams able to cross over, run past or even dive over the net to hit the ball. Like volleyball, each team has three hits before having to play the ball to the other team, done by bouncing it into the net without it hitting the frame or bouncing twice.

A point is won when a team fails to legally return a hit or the ball hits the ground.

Mr Capp said growing the sport has been a massive drive of his, particularly during the time he worked under James at Spikeball Australia.

“The best and most effective, although slow way of growing the sport has been simply through a ‘come and try’ method, it’s great and exciting to be able to explain Roundnet as a strange mix of volleyball, downball/foursquare and something like Tennis, but it isn’t until you actually step into the action and give it a try that the sport comes to life,” he said.

“It’s my strong and firm belief that while promoting and growing the top end of the sport of Roundnet we will see growth, it is also predominantly going to be through the grass root organisations, structures and groups that we will see this sport flourish into a sustainable and growing sport not only in Australia, but across the world.”

The first Roundnet World Championship was held in Belgium in 2022, with the Australian men’s team finishing equal ninth.

Mr Capp said it’s going to be a big test for them to even push the top 10 now given the level of competitiveness there is around the world, particularly across Europe.

“I am beyond excited to link up again with my Aussie teammates again in London in just over a month for the RoundnetWorld Championships,” he said.

“We’re excited to see the level that Australia will be able to compete at given the geographical distance that our community has from a lot of other top-level Roundnet communities,”

“It’s exciting to see a lot of familiar faces in the Aussie team returning for the 2024 Roundnet World Championships in London, but just as, if not even more exciting seeing the number of new faces that will be joining the team for the first time on an international stage this time round.”

Mr Capp encouraged anyone interested in Roundnet to feel free to reach out to the Australian Roundnet Association (ARA) via Instagram or by searching up their website at roundnet.com.au.

Be part of a vibrant Community and enjoy the Facilities

The fast-paced Roundnet World Championships are coming up next month. (Unsplash-Spikeball)

Repurposing fallen trees

By Dongyun Kwon

Healesville Primary School and Yarra Glen Primary School recently received a present from Treasuring Our Trees (TOT).

TOT has been building school and community projects by repurposing fallen logwood since the 2021 storm and constructed a new yarning circle for the two schools.

TOT founder David Ferrier said his projects are not only about caring for the local trees but also about caring for the community.

“Our underlying message was to educate the children about sustainability,” he said.

“By creating these yarning circles, there’s also a connection to First Nations education.

“What was very important to us was that we just didn’t select the big schools but also selected some medium and small schools because what we learnt was a lot of small schools struggle with fundraisers for projects like this.”

The yarning circle was delivered on the last day of Term 2 for both schools.

Healesville Primary School principal Tracey Robertson-Smith said everyone in the school community loves the new yarning space.

“The benches have been constructed beautifully,” she said.

“We have explained to the students at our assembly where they came from and the history of the program.”

Phoebe and Dom, school captains of Healesville Primary School, couldn’t hide their excitement when they saw the new space.

They said everyone would love it.

“This is very unique and thank you for putting in so much effort for us,” Dom said.

“It’s a good cause to help the community feel better from the trauma of what happened,” Phoebe said.

Ms Robertonson-Smith said the yarning circle would have a multitude of uses.

“It is a place where our students can hang out and chat,” she said.

“Our teachers and their classes will use it,

and it will also be used in our cultural education sessions.

“I am also sure some of our students will like to play here as well.”

Mr Ferrier was invited to present about TOT’s project at Yarra Glen Primary School’s assembly on Friday 19 July.

Yarra Glen Primary School principal Jeff de Villa said his students have been enjoying using the new yarning circle.

“Students admire the artwork,” he said.

“They are using it to meet friends, build friendship and connections as a class, and as a calming zone.”

TOT has donated the yarning circle to about 12 schools across the Yarra Ranges thanks to support from the Victorian Government and Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino.

Mr Ferrier said he’s gotten good feedback from teachers and families.

“It gives everyone a lift and inspires the children through all these levels of education,” he said.

“A lot of people are really inspired by our community projects of recycling and repurposing our beloved trees.

“We give them a second life.”

Sporting a new look for men’s mental health

By Callum Ludwig

A touching fundraising event was held inYarra Junction on Saturday 20 July commemorating the life of a much-loved man.

Altitude Hair Studio hosted its second Men’s Mental Health Charity Day, raising funds for the ‘Grab Life by the Balls’ movement.

Owner Danielle Marino said the event was in honour of her former partner Damien.

“In 2018 I lost my partner to suicide and going through this experience made me realise just how silent this illness is and how easily we are losing the battle against mental health, especially in men,” she said.

“The first event was held on Damien’s birthday on 22 July [2023], to celebrate his life and in the hope that his memory can make a difference to other men who may be fighting the same battle.”

The studio offered haircuts for men from 9am as well as holding a sausage sizzle, selling raffle tickets and hosting a display of vintage cars courtesy of Yarra Junction’s Mr Excited.

Ms Marino said the 2023 fundraiser was small but still a huge success as they raised over $4000 for a charity called Mongrels Men.

“We connected with lots of local men who helped make this year bigger and better and this year the charity we chose to raise funds for is the ‘Grab Life by the Balls’ movement as we not only want to hold this event to raise funds for them but also hope to connect local men with the organisation to try bring their amazing work closer to our local communi-

ty,” she said.

“We need to normalise men discussing their mental health, we need to encourage men to check on each other and normalise seeking professional assistance when it’s needed, I do feel this is getting better and improving every year but we still have a long way to go.”

For anyone who couldn’t attend but would like to donate, you can do so at donorbox.

org/altitude-hair-studio-men-s-mentalhealth-fundraiser/fundraiser/danielle-marino.

Ms Marino said she has been doing hair a really long time and in that time I’ve seen clients in real mental lows and not feeling the best and they always leave with a weight lifted off them.

“This is a hugely personal experience that I share with the community when we host

this event, I share it because I never want anyone to wish they were more aware, I never want anyone to learn about mental health the way I have,” she said.

“It’s important for both men and women to educate themself on mental health so that together we can curb the stats on mental health as a whole. Supporting events like this might show someone close to you that you’re there to support them and that could make the world of difference.”

L-R: Shanae Truscott, Danielle Marino and Brianna White of Altitude Hair Studio. (Zarlo Photography)

The Altitude team at work for the event. (Supplied)

Mr Excited’s vintage car display. (Supplied)

David Ferrier (third from right) and Yarra Glen Primary School principal Jeff de Villa (right) and Yarra Glen Primary School students at the assembly. (Dongyun Kwon: 420686)

The yarning circle at Yarra Glen Primary School. (Dongyun Kwon: 420686)

Healesville Primary School school captains Phoebe (second from right) and Dom (left) with David Ferrier (second from left) and school principal Tracey Robertson-Smith (right). (Stewart Chambers: 420082)

Mr Ferrier explaining about the yarning circle project to the school captains and principal. (Stewart Chambers: 420082)

Yarra Valley & Croydon Toyota

A snowy wonderland

By Callum Ludwig

Only the second significant snowfall of the year fell on Mt Donna Buang on Monday 15 July.

It followed the first reasonable fall that came on Sunday 30 June.

Ben from the Mountain Tucker food van said 2024 has been an atypical year for snowfall.

“It has been unusually difficult to predict when and how much snow will fall, although we use weather and snow forecast apps, the information they provide regularly changes daily and sometimes even hourly which is keeping us busy deciphering what is supposed to be coming and what will come,” he said.

“It is hard to imagine we’re in the middle of winter and only had two reasonable snow falls, nevertheless, Mountain Tucker will continue to provide our updates on Mt Donna Buang.”

About 1cm of snow had fallen on the mountain on Sunday 14 July, before a flurry overnight and further centimetres fell during Monday.

Unfortunately, the rain over the last couple of days deteriorated the snow quality considerably, with a hard and icy cover covering snow on the summit and other parts slushy and wet.

VicRoads also closed vehicle access up from the 10 Mile carpark on Monday due to the falling snow and heavy traffic the day prior.

Snow atop Mt Donna Buang. (Mountain Tucker)

A winter wonder.

Road access may not always be available to the summit of Mt Donna Buang.

Snow days at the summit are popular in the winter months.

Most of the snow fell on Monday 15 July.

Dusting the trees.

The snow quality was reduced by the recent rain.

Snow has been hard to predict this year. Chains are required when the snow falls.

Visitors are encouraged to prepare in advance.

ENROLMENTS What makes us special

At Healesville Primary School we provide our students with a unique educational opportunity. Our students learn the Woi wurrung language which is the language of the Wurundjeri People as well as learning about the cultural stories.

HPS has four lifelong values that are at the heart of our school. These are Respect, always Learning, Community and Confidence. These values also form the basis for our Positive Edu-

cation Program where students in multi aged groups work with a teacher for the time they are at our school. We meet four times a term thereby establishing relationships across the school and with another trusted adult. This is another one of our unique programs that focuses on growth mindsets.

HPS are extremely fortunate to have extensive outdoor environments. These are surrounded by Indigenous murals, open play

spaces, four shaded playgrounds and multiple outdoor classroom areas. We have a large sustainability hub including chickens and a huge natural play area for cubby building with bush kitchens for mud play.

Our classrooms are warm, engaging and inviting. All rooms have quiet corners where students can read, participate in calming activities, and regulate their emotions. Our behaviour management system is School Wide Positive

Behaviour Support, which is a departmental initiative that focuses on rewarding positive behaviour.We pride ourselves on our calm and orderly learning environments. Our teaching approach is differentiated, enabling all students to learn at their point of need. We offer support and extension programs at all levels. Book a tour today and see for yourselves what an amazing community school Healesville Primary is.

Healesville Primary School welcomes everyone to come see what makes the school so unique. (File)

See what Healesville Primary School has to offer.

Night of dance and lights

Warburton Primary School is set to transform into a vibrant celebration of culture and community as it hosts its highly anticipated Bush Dance and Night of Lights Festival on Friday 30 August.

This year’s event promises to be a night to remember, featuring a live Bush Band and a spectacular display of student-made lanterns that will feature Social Justice themes, as this is the Term 3 focus.

The festivities will begin with a Lantern Parade at 6pm, so make sure you arrive by

5.45pm. The live Bush Band will set the tone for the evening from 6.30-8.pm with traditional Australian folk music, encouraging everyone to get on their feet and dance to the lively tunes.

“We’re thrilled to bring this event to our community for another year,” said Principal Nathan van der Monde.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together, celebrate our diverse cultural heritage, and enjoy an evening of music, dance, and light.”

In addition to the Bush Band, the Night of Lights festival will showcase an array of light displays, creating a magical atmosphere for all ages. Lanterns, fairy lights, and colourful installations will adorn the school grounds, adding to the festive spirit.

“We want to highlight the rich cultural tapestry that makes our community unique,” Mr van der Monde said.

“The Bush Dance and Night of Lights Festival is an opportunity for the school community to come together and share a hot meal

cooked by the Parents and Friends group, and to join in with some dancing – showcasing the students’ performing arts skills learned during the term.”

Entry to the festival is free, and all are welcome. For more information, visit the Warburton Primary School website, check the school’s Instagram page (@warburton_ps) or contact the school office.

Don’t miss out on what promises to be a night filled with fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories!

Don’t miss the Warburton Primary School Bush Dance and Night of Lights. (Supplied)

The event proves a hit every year.

ENROLMENTS Family feel at Gladysdale

Gladysdale Primary School is a happy, vibrant and community orientated school, with a fabulous family feel.

Each term the students showcase their talents to their families and outside community through the presentation of their Passion Projects. This is where students work on a subject of their choosing for the term and display their knowledge to others, explain and display what they have learnt

Gladysdale Primary School is an inclusive school where all students are seen and heard and have all students working on their own individual learning goals and understand why they are learning things and where their learning will take them next. Student Voice is extremely important and valued highly so the students understand their learning process.

Gladysdale Primary School offers all specialists programs such as- Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Science, Technology Respectful Relationships PE, Auslan and Indigenous Studies.

Students at Gladysdale also learn the importance of sustainability through our Patch to Plate program where students learn about growing, harvesting, and cooking their own food.

Gladysdale Primary School offers OSHCLUB for before and after school for those times that it is needed.

Gladysdale is a caring, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all, and with Rosie the Wellbeing dog to greet all on arrival we look forward to welcoming you for a tour.

Small School- Big Difference!

Upcoming Open Nights Monday May 13 - Science Night | Wednesday May 15 - Open Day Come and see our school in action

L-R: Maggie and Rosie the Wellbeing Dog. (Supplied)

ENROLMENTS Innovating student success

The landscape of education is continually evolving, and it is essential for schools to adapt and thrive within this dynamic environment. One of the most significant changes we have embraced is the heightened focus on student health and wellbeing. Recognising that the foundation of effective teaching and learning is the wellbeing of our students, schools across Victoria have implemented comprehensive programs aimed at fostering resilience and emotional security.

The past couple of years have brought unprecedented challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The impact on education has been profound, affecting students, their families, and the wider community. The disruptions to traditional learning environments, coupled with the social and emotional strain, have left a lasting imprint that cannot be underestimated. Schools have recognised the need to address these challenges head-on to support students’ recovery and growth.

Thanks to the Department of Education’s mental health funding, many schools (such as ours Seville Primary School) have integrated programs like the Resilience Project into their curriculums. The Resilience Project is an evidence-based program that promotes mental health and wellbeing through strategies centred on gratitude, empathy, and mindfulness. Teachers have received extensive training to deliver this program effectively, ensuring it becomes a seamless part of daily routines at Seville Primary School.

Classrooms have adopted the Resilience Project and students are actively participating. This holistic approach is designed to create an environment where students feel safe, valued, and supported. By prioritising their emotional and mental health, schools aim to equip our students with the resilience needed to navi-

gate challenges both inside and outside the classroom. Moreover, through this approach, schools cater to the individual needs of students, recognising that each child is unique and requires personalised support to thrive.

The impact of the Resilience Project extends beyond individual wellbeing; it significantly enhances the teaching and learning framework. When students feel secure and emotionally balanced, they are more engaged, motivated, and capable of reaching their full academic potential. Teachers have observed notable improvements in student behaviour,

Throughout term 3, our school council will be hosting ‘Messy Play’ sessions for new and prospective prep students. It’s a perfect chance for children to make new friends, explore our school environment, and discover the joy of learning at Seville Primary School.

Dates are:

Wednesday July 24th 9:30-10:30am Tuesday 13th August Thursday 5th September

2025 Enrolments close Friday July 26.

To enrol via the Vic Students portal visit https://students.educationapps.vic.gov.au/s/ to create an account and complete the online application form

Seville Primary School 639 Warburton Highway 5964 4557 www.sevilleps.vic.edu.au

classroom participation, and overall academic performance since the program’s implementation.

The commitment to student health and wellbeing reflects a broader educational philosophy. Fostering a nurturing and supportive school environment is essential for cultivating lifelong learners who are not only academically proficient but also emotionally intelligent and resilient. By investing in students’ mental health, schools are laying the groundwork for their future success and wellbeing.

The current climate of education inVictoria

presents numerous challenges for all schools. From addressing the lingering effects of the pandemic on student learning and mental health to managing the increasing demands for technological integration and inclusive education, schools are navigating a complex landscape. Additionally, the pressures of meeting diverse student needs, engaging families, and ensuring staff wellbeing and professional development are ever-present.

Schools like Seville Primary School are committed to rising to these challenges with innovative solutions and a steadfast dedication to their students’ success

We understand that choosing the right school for your child is a significant decision. To help prospective members of our community make an informed choice, we warmly invite you to experience our school firsthand. If you would like an individual tour of Seville Primary School, please reach out directly to us. Alternatively, you can fill out your details on our website at sevilleps.vic.edu.au/, and we will be in touch to arrange a visit.

Getting out into the garden. (Supplied)

Seville Primary School welcomes new families with open arms. (Supplied)

Discover the difference

In the world of education, you might have heard the saying ‘small schools are great schools’, but what does it really mean?

At Toolangi Primary School, we embody this belief and go beyond.

Parents often wonder if a smaller school can offer the same breadth of opportunities as larger ones. The answer is a resounding yes— and then some.With small class sizes, we focus on personalized learning through Individual Education Programs tailored to each student’s needs.

Within our close-knit community, we offer a diverse curriculum and a wide range of extracurricular activities. Imagine every Monday filled with excitement as the MARC van, a travelling library, arrives. Students explore new books and authors, borrowing stories to ignite their imaginations.

Tuesdays start with our Breakfast Club, where students, parents, siblings, and staff gather for cheese and ham toasties. This leads into Play Group and Story Time, fostering friendships and creativity among younger siblings and parents.

Adding to the Tuesday fun is our Hot Lunch program, where students take turns cooking and serving meals they’ve prepared—a blend of teamwork and culinary skills.

Throughout the week, our students engage in Performing Arts, Physical Education, and Visual Arts. They also enjoy outdoor adventures like camps, skiing, and sports events, building friendships and resilience along the way.

At the core of our curriculum is the Kitchen Garden Program, teaching students about science, nature, and sustainability. Imagine the delight as students make sourdough pizzas using wheat they grew, tomatoes they harvested, and cheese they made themselves—a hands-

on lesson in farm-to-table goodness. Small yet full of opportunities, Toolangi Primary School invites you to see firsthand the

experiences we offer. Step into a community where growth, discovery, and success are everyday occurrences.

and

Come

see how your child can thrive at Toolangi Primary, because small schools make a big difference.

Hard at work in the kitchen. (Supplied)

Integrity must be rebuilt

The extent of unlawful conduct, abuse, intimidation and thuggery of the CFMEU on Victorian Government infrastructure projects has been exposed.

Shockingly, after 10 years of the AndrewsAllan Labor Government, a gangster culture of bullying, standover tactics and corruption on State Government construction sites has been allowed to flourish.

Premier Jacinta Allan was the Minister responsible for ‘Big Build’ and major transport infrastructure projects dominated by CFMEU control and thuggery.

It’s hard to believe the Premier or anyone in her government was not aware of the corruption taking place.

The militant behaviour of the CFMEU is nothing new. Previous Royal Commissions recounted the many times the CFMEU has broken the law in order to coerce others to agree to their demands.

From my desk

Bridget Vallence Evelyn MP

This resulted in a specialist regulator, known as the Australian Building Construction Commission, being established.

After being successful in more than 200 prosecutions and imposing over $15 million in penalties on the CFMEU, the Albanese Labor Government abolished the ABCC shortly after it was elected.

Allegations of kickbacks, misuse of public money, and criminal associations have

A dark fairytale for teens

By Christine Yunn-Yu Sun

A review of Deep is the Fen by

Lili Wilkinson

Deep is the Fen, by Australian author Lili Wilkinson, shares the same setting as her previous YA fantasy novel A Hunger of Thorns.

Here is a contemporary world where magic is forbidden, except for the most benign potions and charms mass-produced by big corporations as commercial products that make life easy, convenient and pleasant.

The first-person narrator Merry is happily spending the summer holiday with her two best friends, Teddy and Sol – until she discovers Teddy’s plan to join the Toadmen, a secret society disguised as a harmless village men’s club.

Determined to save Teddy from the creepy cult, she enlists the help of her academic nemesis, Caraway, who has his own secrets.

Merry soon finds herself drawn into the Toadmen’s sinister traditions and dark magic, as she and Caraway travel to Deeping Fen – a foul swamp full of monsters – to attend an ancient ritual where Teddy is to be initiated. Like a nightmare, it’s the place where nothing is as it seems.

The horror elements are truly terrifying, not just what those powerful and greedy can do, but particularly their sense of entitlement to all there is and their indifference to the pain and suffering of others.

Still, there’s love and kindness, friendship and romance, forgiveness and redemption, and, most importantly, courage and compassion.

There is a character from A Hunger of Thorns, and we get to explore the “recovery centres” mentioned in that book.

Those witches, who have long been misunderstood and feared, turn out to be

PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

pretty awesome. Like Maude, Merry transits from hiding her talents to fully accepting and utilising them.

Both girls set out to save the world, and both are fiercely stubborn, so convinced of the worthiness of their pursuits that they often make mistakes, with their attempts to fix them simply leading to more disasters. Indeed, both protagonists are flawed heroines that are authentic and adorable.

In Deep is the Fen, the author effortlessly leads readers through a magical journey full of surprise and suspense. The plot twists are masterfully executed, fluently manipulating our emotions between comfort and terror, grace and gore, joy and dread.

There’s a sense of smoothness and spontaneity in the writing that can only be achieved with years of experience and hard work. But there’s also a unflinchingly honest and daring dive into the dark depth of humanity.

A word on mettle, the magical life force that is found in all living things: First introduced in A Hunger of Thorns, its function – and the impact and consequences of its use – are even more impressive in Deep is the Fen.

Magic can be constructive or dangerous, depending on one’s belief, desire and intention.

Highly recommended.

been rife.

Only CFMEU ‘approved’ suppliers have been winningVictorian Government contracts despite their bid prices being double the cost of their competitors.

North-East Link, Melbourne Metro, and West Gate Tunnel projects have been disrupted, delayed and held to ransom by the CFMEU, drastically forcing up the cost of these projects.

In fact, Labor’s major construction projects are now $40 billion over budget.

These massive cost blowouts mean Victorians are paying the price: this money could have been spent on health, education, public housing or fixing dangerous roads.

The Labor Government has shown scant concern for the waste, instead increasing or adding 55 new taxes and cutting the state’s Health budget.

The behaviour exposed on Victorian construction projects is too serious to ignore.

A Royal Commission into the CFMEU’s conduct on Big Build projects must now be held to independently investigate the extent of the corruption and misuse of taxpayers’ money.

Victorian builders and workers have been bullied and stood over by CFMEU bosses for too long.

Victorian businesses have been shattered, and the mental wellbeing of many young workers damaged.

The Victorian Liberals have already announced the establishment of a new watchdog, known as Construction Enforcement Victoria, to enforce fair standards of conduct under a new Code of Practice for Victoria’s building industry.

Respect, fairness, transparency and accountability must replace corruption and thuggery.

Integrity in construction must be restored. Victorians deserve no less.

Global phenomenon here

SIX

Melbourne’s Comedy theatre

Six the Musical, the global phenomenon which has taken the world by storm will open in Mel bourne on 2 August.

Rehearsals for the smash-hit musical are underway with the entire company preparing to captivate audiences with the show’s innova tiveandempoweringtakeonhistory,redefining the boundaries of musical theatre and engaging audiences of all ages.

The Tony Award winning electrifying musical previously enjoyed record-breaking seasons across the country, and following huge demand and anticipation SIX reigns again at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre with further seasons at the Theatre royal Sydney from 25 October and at QPAC’s Playhouse in Brisbane from 2 January, 2025.

SIX tells the extraordinary story of the six wives of King Henry VIII who step out of the shadow if their infamous husband and reclaim their own narratives.

Since its debut at the Edinburgh Festival fringe, SX has received widespread critical acclaim, leaving audiences enthralled by its infectious energy, catchy tunes, and empowering message. Eltham LittleTheatre Veronica’s Room.

“Nobody forgives you, Veronica” Not even angels! Is Susan actually Susan a self-possessed college student in 1973.

Or is she Veronica, a conflicted young lady of 1935, desperately BELIEVING herself to be a later Susan? What begins as a seeming mission of mercy ends up a terrifying crisis of self-doubt among malevolent forces-with the audience no less certain of.

Veronica/Susan’s identity than she is. Be warned: when you enter Veronica’s room you will find yourself trapped in someone else’s nightmare.

· Season: 6 - 21 September.Tickets now on sale.

· Bookings: 0411 713 095

REMEMBER:

· The 1812 Theatre The Sweet Delilah Swim Club.

· Season: 1 - 24 August. Bookings: 9758 3964.

Not About The Spider

Longlegs

Starring Maika Monroe and Nicolas Cage

Rated MA15+ 4.5/5

Longlegs is a supremely suspenseful horror-thriller written and directed by Osgood Perkins (son of Psycho star Anthony Perkins).

Set during the nineties, Longlegs follows FBI agent Lee Harker (Maika Monroe) as she tracks down a serial killer known as Longlegs (Nicolas Cage).

Monroe is a low-key yet captivating lead as Harker, delivering a focused, solitary, slightly awkward persona that some viewers may read as autistic; as an autistic person myself, I really appreciated Harker’s characterisation.

Harker is also reminiscent of Clarice Starling from Silence of the Lambs, with Longlegs paying further tribute to Seven and Exorcist III.

Cage plays deranged like no other actor, and conveys such bizarre, squirmingly unpleasant menace without ever technically harming anyone.

Longlegs features dim, moody cinematography and rich, haunting sound design, and draws incredible tension from the shadowy environments; you feel a clenching panic whenever Lee has her back to a doorway.

The intriguing, superbly-paced plot steadily weaves together hints of Lee’s hid-

den past, Satanic ritual and the present-day murders, and the unfolding investigation balances a satisfying sense of discovery with a rising dread.

“Show, don’t tell” is a common, arguably overused rule in storytelling, and heavy exposition can indicate laziness or a writer’s lack of faith in their audience.

Perkins proves a master of show and tell, providing thorough detail where needed and shockingly executing (pun intended) the telling.

Like Late NightWith The Devil, Longlegs is a deeply suspenseful throwback movie that nails the nineties setting without fixating on the small details, but Longlegs is a more subdued slow-burn than the extravagant former film.

Possibly the most chilling, compelling and cleverly-written horror film of the year so far, Longlegs is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

- Seth

Lukas Hynes

Protecting democracy

Community leaders from across the Casey electorate recently had the opportunity to have their say of what matters to their community now and into the future

Federal Member for Casey, Aaron Violi hosted the two-part Community Leaders Forum bringing together a diverse cross-section of electorate members.

“I believe it is important to involve community in community decisions. This forum gave local leaders a space to shape our future and work towards building an even stronger community,” he said.

“It was heartwarming to see leaders from across the electorate develop connections while working together to discuss ideas and envision ways to strengthen our region into the future.”

Run by independent deliberative engagement organisation, DemocracyCo, and local facilitation organisation Hatrick and Co, the forum began with an online event on Tuesday 25 June followed by an in-person forum held on Sunday 7 July.

Across both events, over 60 local leaders gathered to envision a future community and discuss ways to strengthen the region across many critical areas, including food security, affordable housing, creating stronger families, social connection, disaster planning and resilience and mental health.

Seville Cricket Club secretary David Peel expressed his thanks to Aaron for bringing the community together at the forum.

“Aaron is doing a really good job in our community. He is out there all the time, getting around our businesses, our community groups and the forum he put on allowed many community groups to talk about general issues that we all face, our community faces and Casey faces,” he said.

Belinda Grooby, from Tribe-Monbulk Youth Inc, said the forum was a fantastic opportunity to engage and connect with so many different organisations and understand the work they are doing.

“It was a brilliant opportunity to connect with those organisations for future planning and understanding local issues,” Mrs Grooby said.

DemocracyCo co-chief executive officer Emily Jenke said forums of this kind give an inside view into the electorate but also what it means to be an active citizen.

“Watching them care, take responsibility and work together on cultivating meaningful connections with each other about issues that impact all of Casey was a joy,” she said.

“Our democracy is in good hands when we come together, make time to talk and support our Members of Parliament to do what they do best - represent their communities.”

Photography rules more than ever in today’s society

By Maria Millers

“Today everything exists to end in a photograph,” Susan Sontag wrote in her 1977 book, On Photography.

Now this observation resonates more strongly than ever, particularly since our daily social-media and news feeds are bursting with digital images from every corner of the globe.

Images have always played an important role in shaping public perceptions, have influenced social and political movements and been catalysts for change.

Before photography there were paintings and now in the digital age we have almost instantdisseminationofimagesseenbymillions.

Such was the case when Pulitzer Prize winning photographer Doug Mills captured the moment of an attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Bloodied but defiant,Trump was seen holding up a clenched fist and mouthing ‘fight, fight, fight’ to his supporters, as he was rushed off stage, still bleeding from his ear.

The photo sped around the world instantly, some predicting t it will bolster his chances for the presidency, others disagree.

There have been certain images that have impacted so strongly that they were indeed instrumental in bringing about change.

Particularly images involving children, the

by what he had seen and perhaps questioning his own ethics in taking the photo, committed suicide.

WOORILLA WORDS

innocent victims of war.

Most would be familiar with Napalm Girl (1972) the photo of a young Vietnamese girl running naked down a road after a napalm attack, later identified as PhanThi Kim Phuc who survived by tearing off her burning clothes.

Taken by Nick Ut it brought the horrors of the war into the homes of everyday people and fuelled anti war feelings in the American public.

One of the most distressing images of all time was The Vulture and the Little Girl, taken by Kevin Carter during the Sudan Famine of 1993 which shows a small emaciated near death

child with a vulture hovering nearby.

It was a photo that was condemned by many but nevertheless won the Pulitzer Prize, bringing more condemnation.

The following year Kevin Carter haunted

WIRE INDUSTRIES

The image remains a powerful symbol of the suffering caused by famine and conflict.

Regrettably today many in Sudan are facing famine again.

In 2015 the body of Adam Kurdi a two year old Syrian boy washed up on a beach inTurkey after he drowned with his mother and brother in an attempt by the family to reach Europe en route to joining family in Canada.

The photo quickly went viral, prompting international responses and played a part in the Canadian elections at the time.

But not all lasting images are of war and carnage.

The first photos taken of Earth by humans during the Apollo missions have become some ofthemostreproducedofalltime,and50years later, their power and influence remain.

On Christmas Eve, 1968 the crew of Apollo eightcapturedaspectacularsightastheyorbited the Moon: the illuminated Earth appearing above the barren lunar horizon.

Called Earthrise and the first colour photograph taken from space it quickly circulated around the world and is widely credited for promoting environmental activism and awareness in 70s Similarly the photo known as Blue Marble(1972)accordingtoNASAhistorianStephen Garber: gives you a much different sense

of the world in which we live, that geographical and political boundaries are really meaningless.

Popularculture toohas itsenduringimages.

When photo journalist Sam Shaw set up the shot of Marilyn Monroe during the New York filming of the SevenYear Itch.

It was merely to promote the film.

This shot of the film star standing over a subway ventilation grate is Shaw’s most famous work eclipsing his other more notable works Marilyn Monroe was a feminist before there was even a word for it.

When studios tried to push “dumb blonde” roles on her, she not only defied them and moved to New York, she started her own production company, one of the first women to ever do so in the 50s.

Some poems not only reflect the socio-political contexts of their times but also continue to inspire and influence movements and individuals globally.

W.B Yeats said: ‘Poetry is truth seen with passion’. At the time of him writingThe Second Coming in 1919, much of the world had grown disillusioned. The poem speaks to us today as potently as ever.

WoorillaPoetryPrize2024isisopenforsubmissions.

Please visit woorilla.org.au

Casey MP Aaron Violi hosted a community leaders forum earlier this month. (Supplied)

PUZZLES

195

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 Sharp struggle (6)

4 Island group in the Indian Ocean (8)

10 Neighbour of Mexico (9)

11 Japanese dish of balls or rolls of rice with garnish (5)

12 Not difficult (4)

13 Hostile (4)

14 Ancient tongue (5)

16 Corrosion (4)

17 Differ (8)

20 Nullify (8)

22 Scottish loch (4)

25 Gutter (5)

26 Ancient harp (4)

28 Middling (4)

30 Rebuke (5)

31 Journeyed (9)

32 To be mildly concussed (3,5)

33 Moniker (coll) (6)

DOWN

1 Marked with graffiti (6)

2 More thinly scattered (7)

3 Sprawls (4)

5 Detailed examination of the elements or structure of something (8)

6 Annoyed (10)

7 Caller (7)

8 Evidence-based disciplines (8)

9 Sharp tooth (4)

15 Styptic (10)

18 Leads an orchestra (8)

19 Devotee (8)

21 Inspect (7)

23 Played for time (7)

24 Clear river bed (6)

27 Actor, – Reynolds (4)

29 Self-referential (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”.

No. 195 No. 195

VINEYARD B&B RESIDENCE ON 25 ACRES

VINEYARD B&B RESIDENCE ON 25 ACRES

ON the open market for first time in 150 years and owned by just 2 families in that time in this grand residence on a sprawling 25 acre pastoral property.

In the heart of the Kinglake Ranges and located on a quiet sealed road there is a lot to discover. Upon entering the property you are taken back by the 180 degree views of the Great Dividing Range.

The property had been in the same family ownership for generations with the current house built approximately 20 years ago to replace the original farm house. A tri-level brick veneer home freshly updated with all the modern conveniences suitable for a large family, this property has everything to offer astute buyers seeking lifestyle acreage within commuting distance to urban centres.

Upon entering the home you are greeted with soaring ceilings and a grand staircase separating living and bedroom zones. Consisting of 5 bedrooms plus study, 4 bathrooms, formal lounge, formal dining room, upstairs games/ rumpus room with wet bar, open plan kitchen living room and laundry.

The downstairs room also doubles as a mudroom and laundry which is currently used as a B&B that is booked out every weekend.

Enjoy the outdoor concrete undercover entertainment patio with decking alfresco and wrap around veranda overlooking the manicured gardens.

Some of the many features include double lock-up garage with remote control door and internal access, LED lighting, 9 ft. ceilings, walk-in robes to master and upstairs bedroom, spa bath in ensuite, built-in robes to all other bedrooms, ducted refrigerated heating/cooling system, wood heating, ceiling fans, ducted vacuum, linen closet and storage, cellar and walk in pantry to kitchen. There is also a Growatt 18 panel solar system connected to mains power to significantly reduce your power bills. The property also includes over 100,000L of water storage with fresh spring water bore for unlimited water supply.

Externally the property provides a large 9 x 18m machinery shed with concrete base, power and wood heating, and manicured gardens complete with fish pond, orchard trees, natives, chicken coop, vegetable patch and dog pen.

The land is a mixture of majority pastoral land with 4 acres under vine of Chardonnay and Pinot grape varieties.

There is a spring fed dam at the head of Captain Creek with a balance of bush attracting a variety on native fauna. With so much to offer and the demand for lifestyle acreage increasing, it’s time to make your regional move before it’s too late. ●

HOME FOCUS

OAKLANDS - OLD WORLD CHARM

NESTLED on a sprawling 8792m2 estate, Oaklands is a landmark property that invites you to immerse yourself in a serene haven of lush gardens and timeless elegance. With its picturesque setting boasting rhododendrons, camellias, majestic Oaks, and an abundance of fruit trees including lemon, lime, fig, avocadoes, apples, mulberry, and olives, this property is a true botanical paradise.

Step inside the enchanting 1920’s character weatherboard house, where every corner exudes warmth and charm. Adorned with wrap-around verandah, strapping, picture rails, lead light features and polished timber floors, this home effortlessly blends period features with modern amenities.

The heart of the home is the country-style kitchen, complete with a 5-burner Falcon stove, Asko dishwasher, granite benches, and a bay window offering stunning views of the sprawling yard and beyond to Port Phillip. With two living areas, including a lounge featuring an atmospheric wood fire, relaxation is guaranteed.

Oaklands offers four bedrooms, including a master with a full ensuite, and a spacious family bathroom boasting a clawfoot bathperfect for unwinding after a long day. Gas ducted heating and split systems ensure year-round comfort.

Outside, the fully fenced property boasts two road accesses, ample parking, a large shed, garden shed, and a holding yard for your four-legged friends. Expansive grassed areas provide an ideal playground for pets and children.

For added convenience, solar panels help reduce costs, while a self-contained studio offers versatility - ideal for an adult child, relative, or home office (STCA). You can even continue the current lease if desired.

Located within easy reach of Emerald township and major arterial roads, Oaklands presents a rare opportunity to embrace a country lifestyle without sacrificing convenience.

Don’t miss your chance to make Oaklands your own slice of paradise. Contact us today to arrange your private viewing. ●

STEP into the extraordinary and discover a home where the dreams of your growing family come to life.

This older style grand two-storey house has been designed with space in mind, offering 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, an office and 2 living areas - your own private retreat where everyone has their own piece of privacy.

From the moment you enter, you will be struck by how spacious the down stairs area is, with its open plan lounge, dining room and billiard/rumpus area. The kitchen and servery open directly onto this space.

Downstairs you will also find the main bedroom and ensuite, 3 other bedrooms, main bathroom and laundry and lots of extra storage space. From here a staircase leads upstairs to another living area, 2 more bedrooms and a bathroom, plus large office – a perfect set up for a family requiring extra living areas.

Experience worry-free living with ducted heating and cooling system plus a wood heater in the lounge room ensuring comfort in every season. Set on an expansive 4.35 acres, this property is a true paradise with all essential services seamlessly connected. Moreover, the property has extra water tanks, ideal for any family wishing to live more sustainably.

For those with a love for animals, the property boasts 4 paddocks, a haven for a family horse/pony to roam freely or maybe some frolicsome goats or sheep.

There is a small orchard which has some established trees in it, with room to add plenty more. There’s even space for a vegetable garden, allowing you to take that journey to self-sufficiency right from your own backyard. The 4-car garage with a mezzanine floor provides ample space for storage, making it a haven for tradespeople and hobbyists alike.

The height of the garage is just perfect for that caravan or Winnebago. Of course, on a property like this there is more shedding that can be used to suit your needs and requirements.

Location of this perfectly positioned property balances tranquillity and convenience. The lovely town of Healesville

COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE IN THE HEART OF TECOMA

NESTLED in the heart of Tecoma, this delightful 3-bedroom home offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Located within an easy stroll to Tecoma’s eclectic Main Street, enjoy the serene surroundings with a backdrop of the Sherbrooke Forest.

Step inside to discover:

· Three bedrooms, each offering ample space and natural light

· A spacious living area with bay window, overlooking a colourful garden

· Hardwood floors

· An open plan kitchen overlooking the rear decking and garden with open plan meals area attached

· Gas ducted heating throughout plus evaporative cooling

· Double glazed windows

· Solar panels

· Solar hot water system

Outside, the property features a meticulously maintained garden, providing a peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. The expansive decking area is an entertainer’s dream, offering ample space for barbecues, alfresco dining, or simply soaking up the sun. A large amount of space can also be found under the house, which is ideal for storage or workshop area.

Convenience is key with this home, as it is just a short stroll away from local shops, cafes, and amenities. You will certainly appreciate the proximity to schools, public transport and parks, making it an ideal location for families of all ages.

This is a rare opportunity to own a slice of Tecoma paradise. Whether you’re looking for a family home or a tranquil retreat, 39 Sandells Road ticks all the boxes. ●

YOUR LIFESTYLE DREAM STARTS HERE

START your country dream here on almost 11 beautiful acres that will guarantee your privacy, serenity and plenty room to enjoy all the things you love doing right here on your own hobby farm.

There is plenty of pasture and cleared land to feed the animals, ride motorbikes and even a spring fed dam to fish or swim plus another dam complete with water lilies.

The property also adjoins a beautiful flowing creek at the rear which provides the idyllic space for you to sit in complete silence listening to the flow of water and the abundance of wildlife that also call this place home.

The comfortable 3 bedroom plus separate study home welcomes you and your family to a warm and inviting atmosphere where many

happy memories can be created.

The large kitchen will become the centre of entertaining friends and family plus the warm crackling wood fire in the lounge will keep you cozy and relaxed. The views from the covered alfresco area are what rural living is all about.

Magical sunsets over perfect pastures whilst enjoying the visiting wildlife will make you realise there is more to life than the constant hustle and bustle. There is also plenty of shedding to cater for all your storage and tinkering needs.

Right in the heart of horse heaven, there are many riding trails right at your doorstep too. Call us to inspect today and see for yourself the lifestyle that is on offer here – you will never regret making the move to the hills. ●

HOME FOCUS

FAMILY SPACE AND CONVENIENCE

BOASTING loads of space for the growing family this home is the ideal spot to enjoy the peaceful country lifestyle.

Offering 3 large bedrooms all with built-in robes and an ensuite in the main bedroom, big open living areas give the whole family plenty of space to spread out with separate zoned lounge/family rooms, the open plan kitchen is spacious and has ample bench and cupboard space.

Everyone will love the outdoors with approx. 2000sqm to enjoy and explore, established, landscaped gardens surround the property with plenty of colour and birdlife to admire.

Plenty of shedding with a carport, lock-up garage, wood shed/carport with loads of space for boats, trailers and caravans and also a veggie patch, plus the added bonus of being zoned NRZ2 offering development potential (subject to council approval ).

A great family home in a great location situated just a short walk to local schools shops and transport. ●

2WaterlooAvenue,Warburton$1,250,000-$1,350,000

AWarburtonMasterpiecewithBreathtakingViews

Thisnewlybuiltexceptionalhomehasbeendesignedwithstyleandsophistication.Featuring premiumefficiencythroughout,boastinga 6.5starenergyrating,doubleglazedwindowsand doors,lowenergyLEDlighting,andnaturalgashydronicheating.Theversatilelayoutincludesfour bedroomsandthreebathrooms.Upstairs,themasterbedroomfeaturesqualitycarpets,a large walkinrobe,and asumptuousensuite.Entertainerswilldelightinthekitchen,whichservesasthe centerpieceofthehome.Withamplespace,stonebenchtops,seamlessandextensivecupboards, qualityappliances,and abutler’spantry.Twoadditionalbedroomsanda largefamilybathroom completethislevel.Downstairsoffers afabuloussetupwith adoublegaragespanningaround56m², astoreroom,and astudio/bathroomwithitsownpatioandaccesstothegardens.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

RelaxtothesoundsoftheYarraRiver

$570,000-$610,000

WiththesoundsoftheYarraRiverjustovertheroadthisisjust asuperblocationandtheidealplace tobetositbackrelaxandenjoythepicturesquesurroundings.Thehomeiswellpresentedand boastsplentyofspaceforthegrowingfamilywith 3bedroomsallwithbuiltinrobesanda fresh modernbathroom.Theopenplankitchenhasplentyofbenchandcupboardspacewitha separate meals/diningareaandspaciouslounge/familyroomgivingeveryoneplentyofroomtospread out.Outsideisa colourfulandpicturesquebackdropwitha greatsizerearyardwitha coolcreek meanderingthrough,frontandrearverandasprovidea greatspottorelaxandenjoytheoutdoor vista.Beautifulestablishedgardenswith acolourfularrayoffloweringtreesandshrubs,amplecar accommodationplusunderhousestorage. Afantasticpropertyin asensationallocation.

DavidCarroll M 0419539320

CaptivatingViewsandSpaciousLiving

Boastingpanoramicviewsthatwilltakeyourbreathaway,enjoyspaciouslivingwhilsttakinginthe mesmerizingviewsfromyourfrontdeck.Fourgenerouslysizedbedroomsincluding amastersuitewith adouble-sizedshowerandamplestorage.Versatilelivingwithmultiplelounges,perfectforfamily gatheringsorhomeoffice.Privateentertainingareawith awoodheaterandwood-firedpizzaoven, surroundedbyfruittreesandveggiepatches.Convenientlocationclosetopublictransport,schools, medicalfacilities,andlocalamenities.Perfectlypositionedfornatureenthusiastsandfamiliesalike, withtheWarburtontrailjustmomentsawayforleisurelywalksandwildlifesightings.Whetheryou seek apeacefulretreator aspacioussanctuaryforentertaining,thishomepromisestoexceedyour expectations

Experiencesecurefamilylivingwithanabundanceofspace You´llbeimpressedbythisdelightfulfamilyhomefullofcharacterandcharm.Offeringanopen kitchen,diningandfamilyarea,3 bedroomsincludingmasterwithensuiteandspaciouswalk-in robe,and adoublecarportatthefrontallowseasyundercoverparking.Bothbathroomsboasta delightfulfeaturewindowwhereonecantakeinthelushgreeneryinabsoluteprivacy!Thissecure fencedpropertyissurroundedbyestablishedgardens,a largegrassy,flatyardallsafelybehinda charmingfrontpicketfencewithremotecontrolgates.Inadditiontothecarports, alockupgarage andtoolshedattherear.ThepavedcourtyardwithbuiltinBBQmakesanidealsettingforanysocial gathering.Additionalfeaturesincludegasductedheating, 3splitsystems,ceilingfans, acrackling woodfireintheloungeand ahugeblockofapprox.1114sq.m Agreatplacetocallhome.

Rain affects course

By Ron Hottes

The V.V.V’s:

Due to the unprecedented amount of precipitation during this period, the V.V.V’s did not play on this day. Hopefully, they are looking forward to their game next week.

Wednesday 17 July, Stableford: With the aforementioned dump of rain recently, the small field was always going to struggle with the conditions and this proved to be true. But old mate Darryl Ward is in the middle of a surprising hot streak at the moment (and hot streaks don’t often appear in the middle of a wet winter) and this form easily won the day and the top prize for him. Darryl’s 39 excellent points allowed him to just oust runner-up Robert Ferguson, who should also be proud of his posted result of 38 points. Both those results were way ahead of the next score be-

cause no-one else in the field went anywhere near matching their handicap. This would be why the ball rundown stretched all the way to 32 points. There were only three NTP winners on the day, whilst a rare occurrence saw the relatively easy third hole NTP not claimed. It’s a long time since that has happened. The NTP’s went home with Dave Hatt (5th), Chris Leighton (9th) and Rob Ferguson (12th). The much tougher 15th NTP also went unclaimed.

Saturday 20 July, Stableford: With damp, even showery conditions prevailing, following on from plenty of precipitation overnight, Friday, the Match Committee decided to suspend the Saturday event. It is to be very much hoped that predicted dry, even sunny days on Monday, Tuesday into Wednesday will see a return to mid-week golf at Warburton.

Save the date for trials

By Anita Prowse

A very wet week has resulted in quite a few people missing events due to the ever-persistent hoof abscesses so hopefully lt will dry out a little soon.

A definite ‘save the date’ for riders’ diaries as Shirley Heights have announced their three-star EA National Horse Trials weekend for Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 September 2024.

The second competition in the midweek Dressage series at Shirley Heights was postponed due to a little too much water, now being held this Wednesday 24 July.

Underway is the preparations for the 2024 Yarra Valley Horse Show set for Sunday 15 December at Wesburn Park. A big program again is in-store, with a couple of new and exciting surprises in the works. Anyone who has any classes they’d like to see added, please contact anita.horses@ gmail.com as the organisers would love to hear from you.

Cockatoo & District Pony Club has their Dressage Jackpot on the weekend of 7 and 8 September with entries open now at Event Secretary.

Fingers crossed for some warmer, drier days coming up, Happy Riding Everyone.

The Supreme winners at the 2023 Yarra Valley Horse Show. (Supplied)

Warburton golfers will be holding out for better conditions on the course. (File)

SPORT Weather a big challenge

Woori Yallock vs Wandin is one match that both sides always have eyeballed on the calendar and while the weather certainly let both sides and their supporters down, the contest didn’t disappoint.

With second on the ladder up for grabs, it was a hungry Wandin outfit that looked more prepared to adjust to the conditions.

The contest was king and with both sides boasting quality midfielders it was going to be about territory and maximising your opportunities once inside forward 50.

WooriYallock Senior Coach Brendan Donovan said credit goes toWandin who outworked and outhunted the Woori team.

“In what struggled to even look like a football match, Wandin got early scoreboard pressure and made the most of their chances,” he said.

Final scores Woori Yallock 3.4, 22 defeated by Wandin 8.10, 58.

Jordan Jaworski was fantastic for Wandin, kicking three goals while Angus Smith and Zac Monkhorst were clearly the best for Woori.

Other top Tigers were Jacob Aitchison, Blake Muir, Luke Boontjes and Archie Spencer.

The other top Dogs on the day were Chayce Black, Damien Furey, Patrick Hodgett, Brodie Atkins and Todd Garner.

Other results

Football:

Woori Yallock won by forfeit over Seville

· Wandin 6.6, 42 defeated Emerald 1.7, 13. Top Dogs were Chloe Stokes, Hailee Stokes, Alysha Henskens, Chloe Waterhouse, Madeline Stokes and Lydia Langton.

· Woori Yallock U18s 9.14, 68 defeated Mt Evelyn 1.1, 7. Top Tigers were Roy Ray, Mason O’Neill, Gabriel Conboy, Jack Freedman, Maximus Iskra and Tyler Ormsby.

“The Unders played the game of the year defeating the top team with an emphatic display of tough wet weather footy,” Donovan said.

Wandin U19s DNP

· Woori Yallock Reserves 3.1, 19 defeated Wandin Reserves 2.6, 18. Donovan said the Woori Yallock ‘ressies’, who have improved greatly this year, had been close but haven’t been able to get the deal done yet.

“Till Saturday, giving up a lead early the boys fought the fight and hit the lead and then held on in horrendous conditions to score a great win,” he said.

Top Tigers were Thomas Heron, Cam Bell, Jude Hay, Tom Kear, Ryley Dare and Thomas Rogers.

Top Dogs were Darby Huggins, Daniel Bailey, Mitchell Dall, Samuel Marsh, Jackson Byrne and Blake Chrisfield.

Netball:

“The netball had mixed results again with B and D having wins and setting up their finals run well while A and C both put in spirited per-

formances against good opponents,” Donovan said.

· A Grade: Woori Yallock 30 defeated by Wandin 42. Top Tigers were Danika Corless, Demi Barber and Gaby Clarke while the top Dogs were Emmalia Blake, Ruby Tidd, and Kyah Kimpton.

· B Grade: Woori Yallock 61 defeated Wandin 39. Top Tigers were Tarsha Collette, Sabina Lantouris and Jaymee Tough while the top

and Chelsea Alderman

· C Grade: Woori Yallock 22 defeated by Wandin 42. Top Tigers were Kasie Pitts, Jessica Ford and Grace Sibley while the top Dogs were Marlee Smart, Corinne Bogle and Bianca Zoric.

· D Grade: Woori Yallock 24 defeated Wandin 23. Top Tigers were Megan Britton, Cassidy McInnes and Rebecca Jackson while the top

Mixed bag for Burras against Belgrave

By Alex Woods

The round started Friday Night with the Women’s footy team taking on Officer, in Officer.

With most of the team depleted with sickness, the team managed to take the field with two rotations (before being struck down with injuries). It wasn’t the Burras’ day on the field, and Officer came out to win. The final score was 5.10-40 to Burras 0. The team gave their all and will reset for a big game next weekend.

Saturday came by and Warburton-Millgrove hosted Belgrave. D grade started the morning with a tough match-up. The game was close and they were only three down at halftime. Belgrave took control in the last half and secured the win 17-21. Holly Cole, Maddie Loveless and Hannah Darwall were the top performers with Holly shooting 4 goals, Sienna Muir with 4, Brooke de Pedro with 6 and Maddie Loveless with 3.

C grade on next and Belgrave got an early

jump of 4-11 at quarter time. But the Burras managed to bring it back with being 4 down at halftime. Belgrave took the strong lead again and secured the win 19-28. Cam Holland, Cam Partel and Amy Morris were the top performers, with Cam H shooting 5 goals, Mel Hancock with 10 and Ashlyn Hermansen with 4.

A Grade got a strong lead and was 25-15 at the halftime break. They continued the game in the second half with strength and speed, they got the win 56-29 with Ally Langdon, Morgan Wyatt and Selina Fotia being top performers. Bianca Daniels put up 25 goals and Karly Wappett with 31.

B Grade finished off the netball and it wasn’t their day today. Belgrave was strong and they had a nice lead of 9-27 at halftime. The Burras’ second half was better but Belgrave continued nicely and got the win 26-57. Monique Lee, Chelsea Barnard and Tayla Ferguson were the top performers, with Tayla shooting 15 goals, Cam Holland with 5 and

Alex Woods with 6. Reserves took to the field just after midday. Belgrave had a 10-point lead at halftime, the game remained a few goals throughout but Belgrave took control in the last and secured a 1.6-12 to 5.5- 35 win. Dave Bedggood, Brayden Ferguson, Harry Rothwell, Matt Sidari, Ricky Andueza and Tyler Bert were top performers, with Jack Broek kicking the only goal.

Seniors finished off the day, at the first break, scores were even, but the Burras took control in the second quarter to go into halftime with a score of 6.9-45 to 1.3-9. Belgrave secured a few goals in the third but the Burras still had a 23-point lead heading into the last. They managed to secure 3.3 in the last to Belgrave’s 1.2 and got the win. Lachlan Hewitt, Tyson Henry, Tim McKail, Nelson Aldridge, Andrew Trende and Liam Barnard were all stars of the match. Lachlan kicked 5 goals, Liam Barnard with 2, BraydenWoolridge, Jack Farrugia and Tom Baker all had one each.

were Erin Foot, Ella

· 17 and Under: Woori Yallock 9 defeated by Wandin 30. Top Tigers were Charlotte Hubbard, Ella Wood and Oliver Stenhouse while the top Dogs were Summer Tuppenney and Chloe Schmitt.

· Under 15s: Bewick 17 defeated Woori Yallock 14. Top Tigers were Ayla Spencer, Tiahna Foy and Ruby Gregson.

Dogs were Ella Tweedale, Marlee Smart

Dogs

Rumian and Kealey Earney.

Wandin and Woori Yallock’s A Grade netballers come together. (Adam Sykes)

A tough tackle in the wet. (Adam Sykes)It was wet weather football as Woori Yallock hosted Wandin.

Giving it their all

By Sarah Bailey

Healesville U13s 2 - 2 Knox Force

After a great performance last week Healesville were looking to back it up again against the second placed Knox Force. Knox had the better chances of the opening exchanges but didn’t convert.

The game became a very even contest, but two defensive mistakes cost the home side who went into the break two goals down.

Healesville found another gear in the second half and put Knox under immense pressure who remained dangerous on the counter.

Julian B found the net twice for the reds after great balls from Ryder H and Tom J. An outstanding save by Cooper W and Dylan C was excellent on the day.

Healesville U10 Goats 2 - 2 Berwick

A hard-fought draw at home against Berwick saw the U10 Goats walking away feeling victorious.

Down 0-2 at half time the Goats came out firing in the second half captained by their goalkeeper Rory.

With no substitutes the boys produced some exquisite energetic football scoring twice with goals from Arlo and Ryder, topped off with some tremendous runs from Percy and rock wall defending from Pat.

The U10 Goats were too much of a handful for Berwick and dominated for the remainder of the game.

An excellent game of football from a superb group of lads.

Healesville U9 Redbacks 5 – 1 Maroondah

The game started evenly, and Maroondah went on the attack early but couldn’t get past Teddy in goals.

The Redbacks settled and were once again showing how far their passing game has come as they moved the ball around well and found teammates in good position.

A deflection from a corner kick saw the Redbacks take the lead and followed up soon after with a great strike from Kai.

2-0 up at half time.

A fantastic individual effort from the Maroondah striker who took the ball from end to end and scored a great goal fired up the Redbacks and they went on the attack withWill and Ben adding more goals to the score sheet.

A great overall team effort once again and all players put in plenty of work. Shout out to Ben P taking home a hat trick.

Healesville Senior Womens Reds 12 - 0 Maroondah United FC

The Senior Womens Reds welcomed their Maroondah opponents to Don Road on a dreary afternoon.

With the gas heaters on both benches and the marquees set up, the aim for the afternoon was as much to keep as warm as possible as it was to win the game.

The Reds side dominated the game from kick off to the final whistle.

The score at the end was 12-0 to the Reds but in terrible conditions the game was played in great spirits by both sides as is always the case with the Maroondah team.

Special mention to Melanie S and Amelia S

fortheirHSCdebutsandtoNicoleCwhoscored her first for the season.

Healesville U12 Heelers 6 - 0 Waverley City

The U12 Heelers put Waverley under immediate pressure, with Jesse putting the opening goal away in the first few minutes.

As the rain fell in an icy gale, Heelers turned up the heat with several spectacular attacks and determined defence, leading to a goal each from Oscar and Cooper and two beauties from Bodie, the second being a perfect lob that cleared the goalie and hit the net up high.

A foul on Mack in the Waverley goal square late in the game became a display of great team spirit as Mack elected Micah to come forward from defence to take the kick.

Micah belted the ball firmly into the net to great applause, giving Heelers a 6-0 victory, and pushing the team into second position on the ladder.

Healesville U10 Ninjas 3 - 0 Rising Tekkers

The Ninjas took on the skilful and well organized Rising Tekkers at home and the team battled hard all game.

Willis K was outstanding in goals early and provided great drive and pressure for the team in the second half.

Jackson S was as solid as ever in defence, and Leroy P was lively down the wing all day.

But Noah S stole the show in the second half with 2 excellent goals to seal a 3-0 win for the boys.

Healesville Mens Firsts 1 - 1 Gideon’s Warriors Healesville welcomed top of the ladder Gideon’s Warriors to Don Road and the two teams went toe to toe for 90 minutes on a pitch that, in patches, resembled a paddling pool.

Healesville had two clear penalties turned down when John-James was fouled in the box on both occasions and Daniel T dragged a good opportunity wide. Healesville would come to regret these near misses when a defensive error gave Gideon’s a 1-0 half time lead.

Healesville stamped their authority on the second half and would be rewarded through a dubious penalty which was converted by captain Anthony C.

Healesville had a couple of great chances to win the game but couldn’t convert.

However, they were still happy to take a point off the top team in the league and maintain their great run of form.

Healesville Reserves 0 – 0 Dandenong Red Fury

Healesville travelled to top of the table DRF and were looking to maintain their unbeaten second half of the season.

A tight, tense affair was played in tough conditions with both sides not giving an inch to their opponents.

Peter F marshalled his defence expertly on his return from injury and Nick C was excellent in goal. At the other end Oshane D was unlucky not to score and Ben S andTom E linked up well on numerous occasions but couldn’t find that finishing touch.

Overall both teams would feel a draw was a fair result from a very even contest.

Healesville U15 2 - 3 Maroondah United Valour

The game started well and was even for quite a while until a controversial Maroondah goal was awarded.

The Healesville boys showed their character and didn’t give up, keeping the pressure on with Hamish M chipping the keeper twice but just missing.

It wasn’t long though until that pressure resulted in a great tackle and goal by the returning Iggy C.

A 1-1 scoreline at half time felt about right and the boys geared themselves up for a big second half. Another goal to Maroondah spurred them into a gear and the pressure was applied thick and fast.

Multiple chances unfortunately were not converted, until a huge effort with a back half interception, dribble, overlap saw JarrahT make it all the way into the box and converting for his first goal to level things up.

However, a moment of brilliance from Maroondah’s striker saw them take the lead again with one minute to go.

It was hard to find standouts this week with everyone putting in a complete performance.

Healesville in fine form despite weather

By Anne-Marie Ebbels

The Reserves had a dominant performance against Alexandra keeping them scoreless before half-time and leading by 38 points despite a number of key players missing due to injury. Healesville continued to out lay Alexandra to come away big winners by 72 points.

The seniors played the game with constant rain as the ground became muddier and conditions were very slippery.

Healesville got out to an early lead in the first quarter going into the first break 12 points up. Inaccuracy in front of goal in the second quarter by Healesville with 10 scoring shots to five, Alexandra went into the half time break 12 points behind.

Alexandra came out firing after half time and managed to claw the margin back to five points at three quarter time.

Healesville put in a strong final quarter to win the game by 30 points.

In the netball, the first quarter of the A grade game was tight with Healesville going into the first break with a two-goal lead.

The second quarter saw Healesville manufacture several turnovers to increase their lead to five goals at half time.

Healesville continued to extend their lead in the second half in the wet conditions and were winners by 12 goals.

Healesville played with the minimum seven players in B Grade in the consistent rain making the court and ball slippery.

The first quarter was tight with Alexandra going into the first break with a one goal lead.

Healesville worked hard int eh second quarter to go into the half time break with a two-goal lead.

Alexandra had a strong third quarter as the conditions started to take its toll on the unmanned Healesville team to go into the final break with a five-goal lead.

Healesville worked hard in the final quarter

Yarra Glen push hard

By David Ball

With the recent flooding in Yarra Glen causing concerns in accessing the Yarra Glen ground, the Round 14 match was relocated to Seville where the River Pigs took on the Blues in the TAC towards zero road safety round.

The game started in cold and wet conditions on a surface that was in excellent condition despite the heavy and consistent rain.

The first quarter was an even contest, with Yarra Glen answering Seville’s early goal and only a late goal for the Blues saw them 12 points up at quarter time.

Yarra Glen scored the first goal of the second quarter but was unable to add to this as Seville piled on six unanswered goals.

Seville were able to find loose players as the weather improved whilst the River Pigs turned the ball over, frequently missing targets as they went forward.

A couple of 25 metre penalties resulted in easy goals for Seville as the Yarra Glen defenders showed a lack of discipline as they questioned free kick decisions.

Seville went into half time with a lead of 45 points.

The second half was much the same as the first, Yarra Glen were competitive in the contest but once Seville won the ball they were able to share the ball and find loose targets whereas the River Pigs were rushing kicks and finding the opposition.

They did put together some good passages of play and had Jimmy Marks as a leading forward creating some scoring opportunities.

Seville scored six goals in each of the third and fourth quarters while Yarra Glen added two in each to finally go down, 7.6 to 22.13.

In A grade netball Yarra Glen came away from their journey to Yea with a comprehensive win. From the first quarter it was evident Yarra Glen would be dominating this game, and a credit to the team was that no matter what combinations were on the court, the high level of skill was never diminished.

A welcome return from injury for Megan Galetti, as well as Kelsey Eslick continuing to fit seamlessly into this side were positives. Casey Collins showed in a best on court performance that she will be a valuable asset come finals time.

A grade eventual winners 87-22. Next week Yarra Glen hosts Seville, with all teams facing massive challenges against the powerful Blues.t the damage with Yarra Glen winning 29 to 6.

Best players were Sarah Matthews, Annabelle Forsyth and Maddie Oultram.

but couldn’t breach the gap despite winning the quarter with Alexandra running out winners by three goals.

Next week Healesville senior football and netball head to Alexandra while the women head south to Berwick Springs and the U18s play on Friday night at Don Road Complex.

Football

SeniorWomen Healesville 16 defeated Berwick Springs 9 Best: P Stock, P Pavic, C Wilsmore, S Potter, A Frazzetto, S Frazzetto

Senior Men Healesville 78 defeated Alexandra 38 Best: N Mende, B Murphy, T Barclay, L Greenwood, S Donkin, L Potts

Reserves Men Healesville 76 defeated Alexandra 4 Best: C Boeder, C McInnes, J Simnett, P Jones, K Brown, O Benedick

U18 Healesville 40 defeated Upwey-Tecoma

17 Best: R Bode, T Dunne, D Sikorski, O Moreton, K Barclay, L Senti

Next week Yarra Glen hosts Seville, with all teams facing massive challenges against the powerful Blues.

Kobey Jarvis from Yarra Glen flying for a mark. (Supplied)

Healesville Senior Women blow their opposition out of the puddles 12-0 on Saturday at Don Road. (Supplied)