Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 30th July 2024

Selby export on world stage

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Selby-born cycling champion Simon Clarke has officially headed for his second Olympics in Paris to represent the Gold and Green cycling team.

The 38-year-old left Australia at the age of 16 to pursue his passion in the European popular sport, cycling.

He was born in the Selby, lived in Upwey before he moved to Europe, his mother currently lives in Kallista.

Mr Clarke said during the month of November and December, he comes back home to visit his family in the Dandenongs.

Some of the biggest challenges for him, especially during his early days when he first moved to Europe was dealing with language barriers.

“I moved to Italy when I was in my mid-teens, I had to learn Italian, and I ended up marrying an Italian,” he said.

“I’ve now spent more years of my life in Europe, Australia is still my home, but I also feel very at home living in Europe.”

Turn to page 24 for more

Independent storm review acknowledges Hills plight, residents say ....

By Gabriella Vukman

response of electricity providers to the storm-induced power outages that occurred in February this year. This independent review has moved on to its next phase of public consultation, involving the community and stakeholders.

improve the responses of electricity transmission and distribution businesses.

With over half a million people left without electricity as a result of a major thunderstorm event occurring on February 14, the purpose of this independent review is to address and

A Cockatoo resident and former CFA and emergency relief volunteer said: “You can talk to the community as much as you can but what it comes down to is what real solutions they have that will actually make a difference at the end of all this.”

“There are QR codes and things around about seeking input from residents to survey our responses to the events. I just wonder whether this is a little too late,” the resident said.

“Communication is a good step but how much they do with what we say.”

Continued page 5

Hugo Page (IPT), Marius Mayrhofer (DSM) and Simon Clarke (IPT) on the victory dais (File)

Rate adjustment is ‘admin’

By Callum Ludwig

A small adjustment has been made to the rates for Yarra Ranges residents after the Tuesday 23 July Council meeting.

The minor change had to be implemented after Yarra Ranges Council received supplementary valuation changes from the Valuer General of Victoria (VGV) between the council adopting the 2024-25 final budget and the end of the last financial year.

Streeton Ward Councillor Andrew Fullagar spoke to the motion and said this is a fundamentally administrative adjustment.

“It flows from mainly timing considerations of providing data to the Valuer General and then our endorsement that followed shortly after, of the budget,” he said.

“This year there’s a larger than usual component of supplementary rates to the tune of around 380,000 above estimates and council needs to then marginally reduce the rate in the dollar amounts that flow to the rest of the community to comply with the rate cap of 2.75 per cent and that equates to the princely sum of around $4 per assessment,”

“I’m satisfied the calculations provided are correct and so very happy to support this motion tonight.”

If the changes weren’t adopted, it would have resulted in Yarra Ranges Council charging a rate increase of 2.94 per cent, rather than the capped 2.75 per cent increase permitted.

Changes in the number of levies of each type, the rate in the dollar (RID) itself and subsequently the revenue raised by Yarra Ranges Council for each have all altered slightly.

The number of residential, vacant substand, farm and commercial levies all reduced, recreation/cultural levies remained the same and the number of industrial levies increased.

The RID was reduced in all categories, with the most significant reduction being in the

uncapped recreation/cultural levies and the general total from rates has been reduced to $146,215,000.

Lyster Ward Councillor Johanna Skelton seconded the motion and said the Council always has to wait for the valuations.

“We don’t get to dictate when they come to us and in this instance, it’s caused us to have to

do a bit of a correction but overall I think residents and ratepayers will be probably happy that it is that $3.97 approximate reduction,” she said.

“That’s an average but we obviously have to do this to maintain the rates being at the cap that we’ve nominated so it’s an essential and procedural process.”

Councils are not reprimanded or deemed non-compliant if they have to make a rate readjustment following the VGV valuation but the Essential Services Commission does recommend Councils have processes in place to identify possible non-compliance and readjust rates as early as possible to reduce confusion and cost for ratepayers.

YV on board early for sustainable sodium-ion batteries

By Callum Ludwig

An expert in sustainability is calling for Australia to adopt a new rising technology that could allow our energy grids to run on 100 per cent renewables, and the Yarra Valley may have already taken the first step.

Professor of Sustainability at Curtin University Peter Newman AO wrote in an article for The Conversation that sodium-ion batteries are ‘set to spark a renewable energy revolution’ and he belives Australia needs to be ready for it.

Prof Newman has also been a part of the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), particularly focusing on transport and cities, and helping guide net zero transitions throughout the world.

Prof Newman said while Australia has been able to absorb a lot of solar and wind because it’s very cheap and easy to put in, we have needed to focus on firming.

“Firming is a backup to the system for whenever there’s any drop in the power, which happens sometimes with the fossil fuels as well and usually it was done by gas,” he said.

“The gas industry picked up on this and created the idea that they would need to increase the amount of gas that they were digging up, sending out and liquefying because the world was going to need it for firming in their grids,”

“I always felt this was very shaky ground because there’s an enormous amount of solar and wind that can be produced, far in excess to needs, as long as we can store it so it’ll still be available for the times when the system is needing it when the sun’s not shining and the wind’s not blowing.”

The Yarra Valley became a pioneering region for sodium-ion batteries in Australia when in December 2022, UK-based company Faradion installed small stationary sodiumion battery modules at a trail site.

Faradion was contacted for comment.

In an article for the BBC in March 2024, Chief Executive of Faradion James Quinn

said sodium is a much more sustainable source for batteries [than lithium]

“It’s widely available around the world, meaning it’s cheaper to source, and less water-intensive to extract,” he said.

“It takes 682 times more water to extract one tonne of lithium versus one tonne of sodium. That is a significant amount.”

Prof Newman outlined some of the pros and cons of sodium-ion batteries in his article, with positives including that the technology to make lithium-ion batteries is very similar to sodium-ion ones so could transition with ease, sodium is far more abundant than lithium and sodium-ion batteries hold their charge much longer and would lead to a reduction in the environmental issues in the

mining, recycling and disposing of lithium.

However, sodium is less energy-dense than lithium, requiring more space and energy to hold the same amount of charge, thus limiting the environmental boost as more material is required anyway, though analysis from MIT in 2022 indicates this is improving, with their energy density two years ago equal to that of lower-end lithium-ion batteries in 2021.

Prof Newman said he always thought the breakthrough in renewable energy was going to be in storage and now sodium-ion batteries are getting better and better at long-duration storage.

“Lithium-ion batteries in our phones, our computers and our watches need to be re-

charged after a certain time, depending on how much you use over the day but for the grid, they would only last for a few hours maybe overnight at the most and therefore they’re not a good enough source of firming,” he said.

“Sodium-ion batteries are different because they are bigger, the sodium atom is bigger than lithium, therefore it’s heavier, but it can also last longer and it’s now up to a week that it could back-up a grid,”

“By 2027, sodium-ion batteries around the world would be commercial and would be cheaper than gas so you have a situation where not only can we make 100 per cent renewables, but we don’t have to subsidize it.”

In his article, Prof Newman refers to analysis from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) that indicated the competitive prices of sodium-ion batteries could lead them to enter the global market in 2027 and match gas on cost, while he also pointed out that the US Department of Energy estimated in September 2023 that sodium-ion batteries are ‘expected to adopt a significant market share by 2030’.

Prof Newman said he believes the markets are going to drive this because it’s going to be cheaper.

“At the moment the Climate Change Authority is assessing the extent to which we can meet our renewables goals and they are still, they have been saying all along we still need gas for firming,” he said.

“They [sodium-ion batteries] are the market baby at the moment, they’re growing so fast, they’re very cheap, and they don’t need any backing,”

“Governments can’t always get the future right, the International Energy Agency have been doing projections into the future for renewable energy for the last 20 years and every year they get it wrong, every year they predict that it will flatten out because there’s so much momentum in the fossil fuel industries and every year renewables grow even faster, it’s now over 30 per cent in solar and a little less in wind.”

Yarra Ranges Council has made a readjustment to rates to be brought back into compliance with the rate cap. (File)

NEWS

Ivy hater is at war

By Tanya Steele

An active environmentalist has been spotted in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges in recent weeks, declaring open war on the notorious English ivy weed.

Signs declaring “Say no to ivy” can be spotted throughout the Knox region as member of Greening Knox, Darren Wallace, pursues his mission to reduce the spread of environmental weeds in the area.

“After several wet summers the spread of ivy has reached a critical level,” he said.

“There’s been seedlings coming up everywhere throughout the municipality.”

“I reached a point where I was kind of sick of the authorities, Vic Roads, the Knox city council and some of the other authorities doing nothing about this large amount of ivy up trees.”

English ivy is listed as a ‘notable weed’ and as stated in the Knox council’s biodiversity plan the Knox municipality holds a significant role in metropolitan Melbourne’s biodiversity, providing key habitat connectivity between the eastern suburbs of Melbourne and the Dandenong Ranges.

Mr Wallace has had support from the community with people approaching him to congratulate and support his work.

“A number of people say to me, how did I get involved in this campaign and I’ve had many people say great work,” he said.

“I think there’s an increasing awareness of the threat of ivy spreading throughout the municipality and the risk it poses to native vegetation – in particular, the risk it poses to canopy trees.”

“Trees have got enough challenges in their lives currently to deal with and having hundreds of kilos of ivy hanging off them, adding significant weight to them - we’ve just got to do something about it.”

President of Knox Environment Society Richard Faragher said that there are currently a number of threats to Knox’s biodiversity and invasive weeds are one of the biggest.

“It is great when a community member takes on a common enemy and Darren is rightly concerned about it. Once it heads for the tree canopy it places stress on the trees’ health and once they climb they fruit - which is then eaten by birds and spread,” he said.

“We applaud Darren’s efforts in his campaign to target a big problem in Knox. However, we would also like to recognise that there are many individuals and groups in Knox working hard on controlling local weed species and have been over many years.”

Mr Faragher said that the removal of the ivy from the tree canopy will slow the spread of the weed, but there needs to be a more complete approach as if the ivy dies and the gap in the habitat is simply replaced by another form of weed the advantage is reduced.

“Any ivy removal should be followed up by cleaning up, mulching and planting,” he said.

Mr Wallace thinks a multifaceted approach involving awareness in the community and more resources from the Knox council could help.

“This is a difficult issue – I’ve been advocating to council that they need to allocate some resources to have a weed control officer, that person could do some of the weed work, but they could also coordinate a program of education and coordinate funding applications for additional resources from the state government to deal with ivy and all the other environmental weeds that are basically bombarding the municipality,” he said.

“An authorised council officer that could go around and talk to and educate residents and it’s also much, much better to have council officers dealing with state government authorities,” he said.

MrWallace recently came forward at a Knox council meeting on 22 July to highlight the spread of weeds in the region.

“I’m very concerned by English ivy particularly when it’s of this magnitude. And I’m hoping council might be similarly concerned,” he said at the meeting.

Knox city council Director of Infrastructure Grant Thorne said that the council is concerned about the spread of noxious environmental weeds throughout the municipality including in their sites of biological significance.

“The biodiversity team diligently manage the biodiversity sites by employing a number of measures to control the weeds from mechanical to chemical and also the use of goats in some sites,” he said.

“Beyond the sites of biological significance council actively collaborates with the community, friends of groups and other authorities such as Melbourne Water and Parks Victoria to manage weed infestations.’

“Knox has successfully in the past, successfully secured an annual grant through the period and a weed management partnership to assist in weed control throughout the munici-

pality.“

Mr Faragher said it would be great if Knox would consider a weed control officer as there are many weeds in many sites and a coordinated effort would be the best method.

“As always it will be a question of funding,” he said.

At the meeting, Mr Wallace said that he was quite serious when he suggested that it’s lazy not to act on environmental weeds and not to act is also very, very bad economics.

“As environmental weeds spread and grow at a far greater rate than any cost escalation factor or CPI.”

‘So therefore I call upon council to act on the position of an environmental weed officer, which I am very, very sure would be cost-neutral for the council because of the exponential spread of weeds in this municipality. Thank you,” he said.

Mr Thorne said that he appreciates MrWallace’s ongoing interest in engagement on the crucial issue of the environmental weeds.

“We are internally exploring the possibility of reallocating existing resources to partially address the issue of weeds, this is not a commitment to provide the resources. It remains as an option under consideration or still under consideration. Council operates within a constrained budget environment and must carefully consider the allocation of resources across all services, It provides to the community – we strive to maintain a thoughtful and balanced approach, recognising the need to address the various competing demands on council services.”

Invasive weeds in Victoria have been in the spotlight with an ABC story run recently on chain stores selling the very plants causing the issues.

“The selling of weeds by large chain stores is not uncommon and really requires the Government and the nursery industry to do better by our community and the environment. Ivy, bamboo, agapanthus, broome (of various types) are often on sale,” said Mr Faragher.

On 21 June the Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek chaired a meeting of Australia’s Environment Ministers in Sydney and ministers agreed to ‘ambitious national targets for Australia’s environment.’

Ministers agreed to national targets that will protect and conserve 30 per cent of Australia’s landmass by 2030 and among many other things to crack down on feral goats and escaped garden plants as a priority.

“We’re taking action on feral species,” said Minister Plibersek.

“It’s good that they’re saying that it’s good that they’re aware of it – but talk is cheap. The only thing that would give me any comfort is action, sometimes actions are few and far between,” said Mr Wallace.

Going forward Mr Wallace wants to continue his work, talking to council members and staying active in weed removal in the Knox area.

“It would also be good to put together a formal community-based group that goes around and deals with it,” he said.

Operation Hasty

Serious collisions in busy roads in the Dandenong Ranges in the last year have resulted in an increased police presence to try to cut back on the number of serious injuries caused from the resulting collisions.

Belgrave Police have been recently targeting speed and distraction offences in their high-risk areas in an attempt to reduce serious injury collisions within the Belgrave area.

Operation Hasty has been set in motion in the Belgrave area due to 42 injury collisions occurring over the previous 12 months, with 12 of those collisions causing serious injuries. These collisions have mainly occurred on the main thoroughfares in the area, including Burwood Highway, Wellington Rd, Glenfern Rd, Belgrave-Gembrook Rd and BelgraveHallam Rd.

Acting Sergeant Hevern said that despite being a high visibility operation in marked vehicles, police issued 17 infringement notices for speed and distraction offences during the Operation.

One driver lost their licence for three months after being detected in excess of 25km an hour over the speed limit.

“These drivers are the ones who place our family and friends at risk and we make no apologies for penalising motorists who selfishly put themselves and other road users at risk,” he said.

Cash laden bag stolen off train

A person has been left $6000 poorer after allegedly leaving their cash filled bag on a train along the Belgrave line in April this year.

Police released an image and information to social media asking the public to assist finding a person seen allegedly taking the bag and getting off at the Belgrave train station.

“A bag containing $6K was taken from a Belgrave-bound train and Yarra Ranges police have appealed for public help to find who is responsible.,” said the Facebook post.

The victim allegedly left their bag on the train between 1 and 1.15pm on Sunday 28 April this year.

Shortly after, a man was seen allegedly taking the bag and getting off the train at Belgrave Train Station.

Investigators believe the man caught on CCTV will be able to help police with their inquiries. If the public have any information on the bag’s location or the person pictured, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Police in the Yarra Ranges would like to connect with the local community to broaden their ability to solve local crime with the assistance of residential and commercial businesses CCTV. By working in partnership with the community and utilising existing technology police can improve their response, crime prevention options and criminal prosecutions.

Police are asking residents of the Yarra Ranges if they own CCTV, please consider registering it via the following email address: eyewatch-yarraranges-mgr@police. vic.gov.au

Signs have popped up all around Knox declaring the intentions of environmentalist Mr Wallace. (Tanya Steele 422035)

Love, care is kidney-shaped

It’s DonateLife Week and new data has revealed Victoria’s urgent need for more organ and tissue donors. Kidney recipient Anthony Breslin tells journalist TANYA STEELE of his journey through illness and donation.

The renowned Melbourne artist Anthony Breslin received a kidney transplant from his friend Tony and lives today because of itAustralia’s 13th annual DonateLife Week runs from Sunday 28 July, until Sunday 4 August.

“It was an amazing experience – I really can’t put into words, the impact,” said Mr Breslin.

“Having a relationship with the guy who I’m carrying his organs in my body, it is keeping me alive and the transplant went superb,” he said.

DonateLife Victoria State Medical Director Dr Rohit D’Costa said dedicated organ donation teams across Victoria work tirelessly to maximise every opportunity to save a life through transplant.

“The reality is, there simply aren’t enough donors in Victoria to match the waitlist. This DonateLife Week, I’m urging everyone in Victoria to please register as an organ and tissue donor,” he said.

In 2014, Mr Breslin was diagnosed with a form of blood cancer that then became an acute leukaemia myeloid (AML). The bone marrow makes a large number of abnormal blood cells and the condition becomes worse very quickly.

“I became very weak, I was dying within a week, I lost my voice. I couldn’t speak – I could hardly walk,” said Mr Breslin.

“I had to get rushed into hospital and put on chemotherapy,” he said.

Chemotherapy put Mr Beslin in remission, and he then, fortunately, received bone marrow from a donor to save his life but later developed a disease known as ‘chronic graft versus host disease’ (GVHD) in response to the transplant.

GVHD occurs when transplanted donor cells recognise the recipient’s tissues as foreign and attack them

“I was lucky to get a donor, but unfortunately I’ve suffered ever since because I now can’t walk properly,” he said. I can’t do a lot of things.”

Treatment for the disease put a strain on Mr Breslin’s kidneys and he had trouble for many years, and he was on and off dialysis.

Ultimately, Mr Breslin’s kidneys began to fail and unbeknownst to him, his sister had put a call out on social media to save his life –the artist said he could never have asked that of anyone.

“Eight people came forward to give me a kidney, which was the record at Alfred Hospital,” said Mr Breslin. “They tested all of them and all but one were eventually all rejected for

different reasons, including my sister,” he said.

One final anonymous donor remained active in the system and turned out to be a match.

Mr Breslin was in hospital preparing for his kidney transplant, when he accidentally bumped into his sister-in-law’s brother, Tony, at the hospital. It was then Anthony realised Tony was to be the donor to save his life.

“I always got along well with him – I said to him, ‘What are you doing here, Tony?’ And he said, ‘I’m the anonymous donor’ and that’s when I just lost it,” said Mr Breslin.

In Victoria in 2023, 40,454 people are registered as organ and tissue donors, 142 people became organ donors after they passed away and 361 people received organ transplants.

Victoria urgently needs more organ and tissue donors and there are currently around 1,800 Australians on the organ waitlist and 14,000 more on dialysis for kidney failure who need Australia’s help. Sadly, more than 50 Australians died last year while on the organ transplant waitlist.

Four in five Australians say that they support donation, but only 36 per cent are registered - 23 per cent in Victoria and 31 per cent in the Yarra Ranges.

Mr Breslin created artwork forVictoria’s DonateLife Week Launch event on Sunday 28 with the Transplants Band and continues to work as an an artist in Melbourne.

Today, he is living with terminal cancer and is currently writing a book that is memoirbased and will include his experiences with organ donation - the chapter is to be called ‘Transplantation of Love’.

“It’s a miracle that I am alive, but I suffer for it,” Mr Breslin said. “I keep working, I’ve got a couple of assistants who are awesome - without them, I couldn’t keep working. I get up because I’ve got some purpose and the purpose isn’t for me – it serves other people and that’s the forefront motivation for me.”

If an extra 3 million Australians register, around 90-100 more people would receive a life-saving organ transplant every year.

Mr Breslin said that both donations kept

him alive for 11 years when he was originally given three months to live.

“I’ve done talks in schools about resilience and about fear and means a lot to me , to just be of service,” he said. “I’m aware of the fact that I don’t know how long I’ve got and I keep taking the projects. I also have anxiety around if I can honour them.”

The theme of DonateLife Week 2024 is ‘be the reason someone else gets a second chance at life.’

Mr Breslin said that in life vulnerability is key.

“If you don’t allow yourself to be vulnerable in front of somebody else, they won’t allow themselves to be vulnerable in front of you and then you cannot connect to them fully,” he said.

It only takes 1 minute to register as an organ and tissue donor at donatelife.gov.au or with three taps on the Express Plus Medicare app. Don’t forget to tell your family you want to be a donor - someone’s life may depend on it.

Mr Breslin is alive today because of a kidney donated by friend Tony. (Supplied)

Mr Breslin at his Melange exhibition in 2022. (Stewart Chambers: 302938)

With help from assistants he regards as very good friends, Mr Breslin continues to work and created this piece for DonateLife Week. (Supplied)

Anthony Breslin exhibited some of his most complete collection of his work ever assembled at Burrinja Cultural Centre in October 2022. (Stewart Chambers: 302938)

Have your say on review

From page 1

According to residents form the Cockatoo area, there have been some improvements in terms of responding to blackout events.

The Cockatoo resident said: “This is the second major power outage we’ve had. The first one was a couple of years ago and lasted six days so about the same amount of time. For the first outage, the response from both the council and disaster recovery was very slow.”

“They’ve made some improvements this time in terms of how quickly they responded to the incident,” he said.

“Our power is unreliable and it’s expensive. We are still paying a fortune for the services that we get. And we still have these events so something still needs to be done. They have made some improvement since the last storms but it hasn’t been enough.”

Major energy providers involved in the review consist of Ausnet, United Energy, Citipower and Powercor, Jemena.

Maintaining that AusNet and United Energy customers experienced the most significant outages, the independent review states, “AusNet AusNet’s network was significantly impacted by the storm event, with 360,000 customers losing supply – the highest number of customer outages in a single day in the history of AusNet’s network.

Ninety-four per cent of AusNet affected customers had their power restored within 72 hours; but 20,000 customers were off supply for three days, and more than 4,000 customers were off supply for at least seven days.

The last five properties were reconnected on 24 February 2024, 11 days after the initial event. During the event, AusNet deployed large generators to Mirboo North, Emerald and Cockatoo communities, which temporarily restored some customer supply until fault repairs were completed.

The Cockatoo resident said: “My greatest concern is not necessarily power because you can cope. It’s access to triple zero and telephone communication services because during summer when there’s bushfires, you need access to these things.”

“Our mobile phone towers will die eight hours into an outage and we have no communications at all once that happens which is of course a major risk when it comes to accessing triple zero,” the resident said.

“We are trying to push the telcos to power the mobile phone network because all we’ve got is battery power. I actually dealt with telstra after the last storms and they agreed that they would triple the battery capacity of the mobile towers on the hill. It had four hours of standard capacity. They didn’t put a generator in but they tripled the battery capacity so they did something, but it is still a major thing that needs to be addressed.”

Residents are also concerned about financial aid when it comes to blackouts.

“Because being a resident in cockatoo, a lot of us have become accustomed to the power outages and have gone and spent four or five grand on a diesel generator. I’m now running my own diesel generator in my house because we are always losing power.”

“During February, I had no power for six days in a row and I know for a fact that the compensation, guaranteed service levee, was changed after the last storm. There are different levels of payment they have to pay you if you are without power as compensation and that was reduced so now as a result of those storms, all we got was a $90 payment instead of a $380 payment,” the resident said.

“The minor compensation you get doesn’t cover your food spoilage, it doesn’t cover the power for your generator, or any of these inconveniences.”

The Cockatoo resident also expressed his concern about contractors being pushed to make quick, temporary repairs to the network in order to get people’s power on in six days to avoid divvying out the $1400 full power outage payments to residents.

“We think Ausnet did a rushed, half-assed job to try and prevent paying people the money,” the Cockatoo resident said.

“We all got our power back on in six days, just one day short of the seven days and now in the past few weeks, we’ve had days without power for maintenance.”

“What are the councils and the government

doing to mitigate the impact of these disasters? If there is a loss of power, what are they doing to make sure the community is fed and watered? Regardless of money, people need to eat, bathe their babies, they need to wash their clothes and live.”

In the case of a bushfire, power is also automatically cut in towns such as Cockatoo, leaving the community without electricity and at risk of being unable to call triple zero.

The Cockatoo resident said: “Community conversation is a good thing and they’ve put a generator in at the Cockatoo Senior Citizens Emergency Relief Centre.”

“There have been some emergency measures that have been put in place but my feeling is that it might have been a little too late and what are they doing to make our electricity network reliable in the first place,” the resident said.

The Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio said: “We are tasked to inquire into and make recommendations in respect to the operational response of transmission and distribution businesses, including contingency planning, timely and effective management of the incident, and restoration of supply.”

“It’s clear that improvements must be made in the way privately owned power companies respond to extreme weather events and how they communicate with the residents and businesses who rely on them,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.

During the event, AusNet’s online Outage

Tracker failed due to high customer demand. This, along with other technological and system issues, meant that impacted communities could not access timely and reliable information about their power outage, and make informed decisions about what to do.”

With a panel made up of Network Outage Review Chair Rosemary Sinclair, Board Director of the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman Gerard Brody and Marinus Link non-executive director Kevin Kehl, communities have already shared their insights.

Currently, the community has expressed to the panel that the chief courses of action include ensuring damaged infrastructure such as downed power lines is made safe, championing visibility of support locally and the implementation of temporary generation particularly for main street services such as fuel stations and grocery stores.

Communities have already told the panel that making sure that accurate and timely information about the situation is critical when it comes to knowing what is happening and when power is likely to be restored.

The interim report also notes Ausnet’s Outage Tracker failed and businesses should do more to communicate with customers with limited phone and internet access.

Having listened to affected communities and investigated the processes of the privately owned power companies that own the network, the panel will make recommendations on the operational response of the companies. It is looking at contingency planning, timely

and effective resource deployment and restoring supply.

Director of Communities at the Yarra Ranges council Leanne Hurst said, “We understand the significant impact of the extreme weather that hit the region in February, 2024, where we saw outages of over 5000 residents and businesses for over a week without access to key digital, telecommunications and power networks.”

“We strongly encourage community members to attend sessions, provide their feedback to the interim report and share their stories as part of the State Government inquiry. We continue to advocate for more resilient telecommunications and power infrastructure throughout the region, following the storms that impacted the region in February 2024 and June 2021,” Ms Hurst said.

“This inquiry, and the increased frequency of extreme weather events, highlights the need for improvements to our networks, and we look forward to hearing the inquiry’s recommendations.”

The review has also engaged and considered input from the Australian Energy Market Operator, Australian Energy Regulator, Energy Safe Victoria, the Essential Services Commission, Emergency Management Victoria and other regulators.

The interim report is available for consultation from early July via Engage Victoria, with sessions to be held in affected communities throughout July. The final report and recommendations will be released in August.

The Victorian Government-issued independent review into the response of electricity providers to the February 14 storm events has progressed to its next phase of public consultation, involving the community and stakeholders. (Carlos De Miguel, Unsplash)

Reaching for the stars

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Boronia’s aspiring astronaut Celene Meraz Benavente is heading towards Ottawa Canada next week with the International Institute of Astronautical Sciences to undertake a week of research and training in parabolic flight.

Ms Meraz Benavente is currently in her third-year as a physiotherapy student at Federation University Australia, while simultaneously pursuing her dream of becoming an astronaut by becoming a candidate for a scientist astronaut with the International Institute of Astronautical Sciences in August 2023.

Last year’s immersive training program in Florida saw Ms Meraz Benavente experience up-to five seconds of microgravity, along with hypoxic training to experience low oxygen levels, space suit simulation and mobility training.

This year’s trip will extend that microgravity experience to 20-30 seconds.

Depending on the weather-of-the-day, her training will be between 12 and 16 August, this is when the astronaut candidates will be going to conduct experiments and learn to adapt in weightlessness.

“With this training, we are learning to be exposed to weightlessness, as we’re preparing for these subordinal missions, it’s really crucial that our body adapts to this environment, - the goal is to continue long term missions in space,” she said.

“Learning to do experiments, operations and weightlessness is absolutely crucial for mission safety, what I’m doing as part of the

research contribution is going to test to see if a balanced deficit occurs after exposure to weightlessness.”

“We know when astronauts return back from the International Space Station, they experience a lot of challenges, especially with balance, we’re going to be testing if these exposures, like parabolic flights, do cause that, and if it does, this is really exciting, because this means we can start looking at treatmentwe can start utilising this platform to prepare even further as we go to to the moon.”

Worldwide, there are 10 candidates selected to do this research and training and Ms Meraz Benavente will be representing Australia.

“I love this country, and it’s an honour to be representing Australia as I embark in astronaut candidacy.”

She always had an appetite to make a difference in the world, whether that difference was finding new treatments in the medical field or exploring life beyond earth.

While some people think it’s “too late” or it’s a “waste of time” to start something new or follow one’s passion once you hit your mid20s, for Ms Meraz Benavente, there was no atmosphere for that kind of thought.

“I was watching the story of Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon, and I started thinking, ‘wow, is this something I can pursue? Can I actually imagine doing something like this? Do I have such an opportunity?’,” she said.

Batteries and e-waste do not belong in the bin

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“I remember, I turned to my husband, and I asked him that question, and he said, ‘absolutely, you can’ - and that was the support I needed at the time to start working towards it.”

“It was no longer a dream or an aspiration but rather a serious goal that I started to passionately work towards it.”

For more information, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/ewaste

She grew up in a trailer home, she didn’t have a rich knowledge about space nor a telescope.

She moved to Melbourne with her Australian husband in 2015.

They met in Florida at the Disney World while they were both doing “a college program with Walt Disney, which was a really exciting time,” she said.

Ms Meraz Benavente said in the past, there were successful astronauts who have been in medicine, which is very promising as someone studying to become a physiotherapist.

“We’re about diagnosing musculoskeletal issues and disorders, we help rehabilitate that, and as we’re moving towards bringing four astronauts back to the moon, and staying longer with the Artemis mission - it’s a very exciting opportunity,” she said.

“For anyone who is in the medical field wanting to get involved in space, we’re starting to look at new opportunities, and now that we’re in this new environment, how do we ensure we’re safe while we’re doing these operations? How do we ensure we reduce our risks of injury?”

“Last September, I had the opportunity to train in a spacesuit, it was pressurised, you can’t move, your mobility is very limited and your balance is affected - there are so many components you have to readapt with this spacesuit, so as a physiotherapist, we’re there to help improve those aspects and as an scientist astronaut candidate I’m looking to improve that.”

According to NASA, in 2024 more than 8000 people have applied to become an astronaut with NASA, and from that pool, NASA will only select between eight and 12 people to become astronaut candidates - they’ll then have to complete two years of training before the candidates are eligible for a space flight.

“When it comes to pursuing something extraordinary like astronaut candidacy, it certainly comes with facing a lot of challenges, and it’s really important that you keep pushing through,” she said.

“For me, it comes more internally - believing that I can do this.”

“Life is always going to throw challenges at you no matter what you do or where you are - it’s important to find support, I’ve been very

blessed, very fortunate to have a lot of support around me, a lot of mentors who believe in what I’m doing, and I think it’s a journey of learning and adapting and continuing to move forward.”

She feels fortunate to have both sponsors and mentors behind her that will facilitate the opportunity for her to train and prepare her for those suborbital missions.

“There are a lot of people out there with big dreams, and when they hear about what I’m doing, I feel like it sparkles a little bit on them, it’s very rewarding,” she said.

She will be graduating from a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from Federation University next year in November.

The aspiring astronaut Celene Meraz Benavente is selected to represent Australia in Canada for a week of research and training in parabolic flight (Supplied)

She’s in her third year studying Bachelor of Physiotherapy at Federation University

Her passion was fuelled by the story of Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon

A truly inspirational trio

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Three young women have been announced as the 2024 recipients of Inspiro’s tertiary health scholarships to help fund their studies and a chance to unlock a world of opportunities.

Community health service Inspiro has awarded scholarships to the value of $18,500 to Yarra Ranges students undertaking tertiary health science courses, to inspire the next generation of health professionals.

The inaugural scholarships were first awarded in March 2000 by the old Lilydale Hospital, Inspiro took over these scholarship awards from Lilydale Hospital in 2006, and since they’ve been awarding hardworking students annually - except during Covid.

Dr Hamish Russell was chairman of the hospital at the time and after its closure, he played a key role in ensuring the scholarships would continue to be offered to local health students, and he has been a long serving member of Inspiro in a variety of roles - these include board director, community advisory group chair and he also serves on the interview panel of the Scholarship Committee – which he claims as one of his favourite day of the year.

He said it’s incredibly important to have an investment in health for the future.

“I feel very special about living in the Yarra Ranges, and I love being involved with my community because it keeps me young and involved with health and also, I feel a strong sense of community here,” Dr Hamish said.

“I’ve loved the thought of Inspiro being part of the community because there’s a real struggle for people to study at universities that are much further live out here, if we can help them, regardless of whether they come back to work in the Yarra Ranges or not – as long as they shape our health system in the future.”

“We want to look forward, and if we can help and inspire people along the way. Well, that’s fantastic,

Important community figures attended the ceremony including the Yarra Ranges Mayor Sophie Todorov, Sue Sestan, Jane Sinnamon, Hamish Russell, Stephen Potter, the recipients’ families and many more.

The winners need to showcase determination and commitment in their studies as well as their contribution within their community.

Last year there were four recipients which included Derek Villacera, Sarah Oliver, Alannah Finger and Jamiee Cook.

This year’s recipients are Kelsey Horsnaill, Elisabeth (Meg) Woods and Pippa Martin.

Inspiro chief executive officer Sue Sestan announced this year’s winners on Thursday afternoon 25 July at the Belgrave Community Hub.

“We believe the awards are quite significant because whilst we are struggling to recruit due to workforce shortages, we see this as a direct

contribution to future workforce, and especially being able to encourage those in theYarra Ranges to continue their studies or to take up studies in health,” Ms Sestan said.

“In many situations, we know financial hardship can be the make or break of completing a course.”

“We recognise that health is struggling with finding people who are values driven, and we hope that Inspiro’s awards demonstrate, or try to indicate that values-driven decisions are really important – hence, it’s not just the academic experience, but also the attributes in the community service we use as criteria.”

Ms Sestan said people should be encouraging young people to take up health disciplines as there’s an aging population to it.

“The cost of services increases, and it’s organisations like Inspiro and other public type organisations that will make the difference in a lot of these people’s lives who can’t afford care,” she said.

Kelsey Horsnaill, who’s the recipient of the 2024 Hamish Russell Scholarship Award valuing at $8000, she’s currently in her second year studying a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Monash University.

“I’m speechless, I was in utter shock when I found out about being the winner of the Hamish Russell award,” she said.

“It’s life changing for me, and it’s going to open up so many different avenues for young people.”

“There’s a lot of challenges, everything’s getting more expensive, but being able to provide

young people with things like, it allows them to focus more on their studies and have more opportunities in the community than what they probably would have had.”

After Ms Horsnaill graduates, she hopes to work in paediatrics in local schools or hospitals.

Elisabeth (Meg)Woods was the recipient for the 2024 Stephen Potter Scholarship Award, valuing at $6500.

The mother of four from Yarra Junction is studying her Masters of Nurse Practitioner remotely through the University of Newcastle, as well as working in three local general practices in Healesville, Warburton and Wandin North.

She said it’s a heavy workload, but with her dedication and hard work, not only has she found a clearer vision but also enjoys what she’s learning.

“I’m really grateful to be recognised as I’ve worked really hard to be where I am at now,” Ms Wood said.

“I have always been giving to the community and trying to strengthen the community and improve the health options for people, it’s nice to be recognised.”

She said with the current cost of living, and managing four kids, the pressure overwhelms things.

“Having that extra support means I don’t have to worry about life pressure, but rather focus on work and study,” she said.

“I’d like to buy some equipment that would be useful for my job so that I have my own tools no matter where I go.”

Local IGA more than meats expectations

By Gabriella Vukman

Featuring among Australia’s top independent grocers, the Cockatoo IGA celebrated winning best national meat department of the year.

Announced in July, members of the store were invited to attend the national awards ceremony on the Gold Coast on July 15.

Cockatoo IGA owner Nathan Pasco said, “Our team were unable to attend the Queensland ceremony, but we had many other retailers and IGA Head Office team members bombarding us with congratulatory messages on the night, which was fantastic.”

“We’re extremely proud of our Meat Department – with Alren and Zayne, our two onsite fully qualified Butchers, Josh our 1st year Apprentice, and Simone our Meat Manager who’s been with us since we opened the store almost 5 years ago,” Nathan said.

This is not the first rodeo for the Cockatoo IGA. Having won Customer Service and Experience Award and the Delicatessen Department of the Year Award at the IGA Victorian Awards of Excellence in 2023.

Further, the Cockatoo store also won the state award for best Meat Department in April

and has been nominated for the national awards three years in a row.

Nathan said, “We’re proud of our whole store and privileged to be nominated in every category for the third year in a row, and very grateful to have won the state award in April.”

“Upon winning the Victorian award, we were nominated for the National Meat Department (medium store) award,” Nathan said.

“We have never set out to win any awards, however this one and the others we’ve won in the past, give us confidence that we are doing some things well, but these awards mostly serve to reiterate that our valued customers are getting an exceptional experience when they shop with us.”

This year’s Queensland awards were a spectacle, with performers such as Delta Goodrem and Matthew Copley making appearances.

In terms of the IGA’s award-winning meat products, Nathan confirms that unboxed meats and a long list of store made products sets the store apart from other markets.

Nathan said, “We pride ourselves on beau-

Ms Wood said she’s “eternally grateful” to everyone who helped and supported her to get to where she’s at now, especially her mentors, and families – in particular, her husband, who had to pick up a lot of things so she could succeed.

The super-mum intends to graduate in November.

Pippa Martin who’s currently in her third year studying occupational therapy at La Trobe University was the recipient for the 2024 Tertiary Health Scholarship Encouragement Award, valuing at $2500.

Ms Martin has been in uni for nearly seven years now.

“It’s been tricky to keep up motivation all these years, having a scholarship like this to recognise that effort means a lot,” she said.

“We’re doing four-months of unpaid placements next year – this will help relieve some of that stress and allow me to focus on my studying.”

She intends to graduate at the end of 2025.

If you are serious about making a difference in your community’s health, keep your eyes out for next year’s intake.

To be eligible, applicants must be a Yarra Ranges Shire resident and currently undertaking or enrolled to commence tertiary studies in an accredited health science course at an Australian university or TAFE institute, or through the Vocational Education and Training (VET) system.

For further information, visit: inspiro.org. au/join-in/scholarships/

tiful store-made products like Sausages, Mince, Rissoles, Schnitzels, Chicken Kievs and many more.”

“Our two butchers are also kept busy cutting most of our product from bodies (not boxed like other Supermarkets!), so the Beef, Lamb and Pork you’re buying from us is ‘Butcher Shop Quality’ and we love to tell people about this,” Nathan said.

Whilst noting that the awards signify the IGA’s competence, Nathan insists that community feedback is the store’s best indicator of performance.

Nathan said, “We love what we do, and the thrill of winning the National award reiterates for us that we present a great offer to the community, but we still value the feedback and input of our local community above all else.”

“We support our community through Saturday BBQ’s, donations to local schools and clubs, as well as a loyalty program that gives our customers the opportunity to donate through us back to these local groups,” Nathan said.

“We love giving support, and we’re grateful for the support we receive back.”

Cockatoo IGA Butcher Alren and Metcash Area Manager Adrian holding the store’s best National Meat Department award. (Nathan Pasco)

Left to right: Pippa Martin, Kelsey Horsnaill and Elisabeth (Megg) Wood (Stewart Chambers)

Dr Hamish Russell’s speech before announcing the winners

Dr Hamish Russell’s speech before announcing the winners

Dental as anything

The government’s Smile Squad program has now delivered free dental care to more than 100,000 students – helping thousands of parents save time and money and keeping Victorian kids happy and healthy.

Yarra Ranges Schools visited this year include Bayswater, Bayswater West, Belgrave South, Boronia Heights, Carrington, Kallista, Karoo, Macclesfield, Menzies Creek, Mountain Gate, Pembroke, Selby, Tecoma, The Basin, Upper Ferntree Gully and Wattle View Primary Schools.

Minister for Health Mary-AnneThomas and Minister for Children and Acting Minister for Education Lizzie Blandthorn visited Amsleigh Park Primary School on 18 July to celebrate the successful program which is making sure thousands of children get the oral care they need – free of charge.

Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas said Smile Squad is saving families time and money - ensuring that all Victorian government school students can get the high quality dental care they need, at school.

Delivered by mobile teams of dedicated oral health clinicians who travel across the state in bright orange vans, Smile Squad provides free check-ups, x-rays, teeth cleaning, application of fluoride and dental sealants, fillings, and root canals to school students.

students receive the high-quality dental care they need, right at school.

Since the program launched in 2019 Smile Squad has delivered 200,000 free initial and follow-up appointments to kids at government schools and provided more than 600,000 dental health packs which include a toothbrush and toothpaste.

A survey of students attending Smile Squad found that 36 per cent of them don’t brush their teeth twice a day, and 16 per cent of them had never had their teeth checked by a dental professional before Smile Squad visited their school.

Across Australia, at least a quarter of children have experienced tooth decay and in Victoria dental conditions are the highest cause of preventable hospitalisations for children under 10.

UDF progress

By Gabriella Vukman

Tuesday’s council meeting saw the progression of the Monbulk town hall Urban Design Framework (UDF) to its next phase of consultation with the Minister for Planning.

After undergoing public consultation and exhibition between 2022 and 2023, the Monbulk UDF received extensive community feedback in the form of 448 submissions.

Monbulk and District Community Opportunities Working Group (MADCOW) committee member and speaker Aimee te Boekhorst said that she wanted to show her support for the amendment proposal for Monbulk.

“We’ve been advocating for the structural plan and the urban design framework for Monbulk for the past nine years,” Ms te Boekhorst said.

“I just wanted to publicly say we support the amendment, the action items from the structure plan and the UDF can progress and we’re really looking forward to seeing the things that will help the age-friendly housing diversity of our community.”

The objectives of the Monbulk Town Centre UDF are to ensure that the Main Road is a centre of pedestrian activity and to set the stepping stones for development in terms of changing the appearance and operation of the town centre.

A local planning policy is to be included for the Monbulk Township in the Planning Scheme.

During Tuesday’s meeting minutes, the go ahead for the council to seek authorisation from the Minister for Planning to proceed with the UDF scheme was given.

The efforts of MADCOW to work with the council to proceed with the UDF was acknowledged by Councillor David Eastham.

“I want to acknowledge that [Ms te Boekhorst]...and other members of MADCOW have been with the council every step of the way from the community plan to the structure plan, all of the work around the recreation reserve and right through to the UDF,” Cr Eastham said.

“That’s why we’ve rolled out Smile Squad acrossVictoria which has delivered oral care to more than 100,000 students,” she said.

Member for Oakleigh Steve Dimopoulos said Smile Squad saves families time and money by ensuring that government school

Minister for Children and Acting Minister for Education Lizzie Blandthorn said good health is essential for staying focused at school.

The Smile Squad program was first funded in 2019 with an initial $321.9 million investment and the program received a $16.9 million boost in the Victorian Budget for 2023/24.

This will support Smile Squad to expand into low-fee non-government schools from 2026.

Victorian parents are encouraged to keep an eye out for information about Smile Squad and sign their kids up when the service next visits their school.

“The ongoing advocacy that you all do is just absolutely incredible and I don’t think Monbulk would be the township that it is without the work that you’ve all done.”

“I know there’s a mountain of work that you’re all doing in the Aging in Place resilience communities as well [Ms te Boekhorst] has given so much time for your community.”

12,000 women, girls make their voices heard on pain

The state government inquiry into women’s pain is asking Victorian girls and women to share their experiences of pain and pain management by the end of the month.

Thousands of women and girls across the state have shared their personal experiences of pain and its management so far - this will help shape the way the government delivers treatment, care and support for women in Victoria.

Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas announced on 24 July that more than 12,000 contributions have already been made to the government’s inquiry into women’s pain.

“For too long women’s pain has been overlooked, misdiagnosed and dismissed – we’re taking action by listening to Victorian women and transforming how women’s health is treated in Victoria,” she said.

With one week to go until the survey closes, the government is asking for more women and girls to make their voices heard reflecting the diversity of experiences across the state.

The survey is available in ten community languages including Arabic, Turkish, Vietnamese, Italian and Greek.

So far, there’s been an overwhelmingly positive response to our survey from women and girls acrossVictoria, including family members,

far thousands of women and girls across the state have shared their personal experiences of pain and its management to help shape the way we deliver treatment, care and support for women in Victoria. (Unsplash)

carers and supporters as well as clinicians and healthcare workers. Parliamentary Secretary for Women’s Health Kat Theophanous said this is an extraordinary response from women and

girls across Victoria who have generously lent their voices and experiences to help shape a health system that truly understands their pain. All interested Victorian women and girls are

encouraged to share their stories before the submissions and survey closes on Wednesday, 31 July.

Through the survey, women and girls have told the government about the daily impact pain conditions have on their lives.

The survey findings along with written submissions and feedback from more than 20 community forums and focus groups will inform recommendations to the Victorian Women’s Health Advisory Council by the end of the year.

As part of the government’s $153 million transformation in women’s health, 20 new women’s health clinics will be delivered, expanding the sexual and reproductive health hubs network. This will double the number of laparoscopies for endo and associated conditions and provide scholarships for more than 100 women’s specialists.

“We’ve heard from thousands of women who have told us about not being heard, being misdiagnosed and having their conditions downplayed. But we know there are so many more women and girls whose stories we have not heard so I encourage you to fill out this survey,” said Minister Thomas.

Submissions can be made at health.vic.gov. au/public-health/inquiry-into-womens-pain.

Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas and Minister for Children and Acting Minister for Education Lizzie Blandthorn visited Amsleigh Park Primary School on 18 July to celebrate the successful program. (Supplied)

Since the program launched in 2019 Smile Squad has delivered 200,000 free initial and follow-up appointments to kids at government schools and provided more than 600,000 dental health packs which include a toothbrush and toothpaste. (Supplied)

Always more than games

By Maria Millers

Creatures of a day! What is anyone? What is he not? A man is but the dream of a shadow.

Yet, when the brightness comes as a gift from heaven, there is a shining light upon men, and a gentle life.

Ancient Greek poet Pindar from Olympian Odes.

The opening ceremony of the 33rd Olympiad in Paris defied conventions of a stadium based event and instead transformed the city’s many famous landmarks and the River Seine into a grand stage to offer an eclectic mix of performances: sometimes spectacular, sometimes kitsch and sometimes even a little weird.

The concept of the Olympic torch relay was introduced for the first time at the 1936 Berlin Olympics the relay seen as symbolising the connection between the ancient Greek ideals of physical prowess and the Nazi ideology of Aryan supremacy. It was intended to present the Nazi regime as the inheritor and protector of these ancient traditions.

At this point, the torch relay has been completely disassociated from its Nazi past, but it has occasionally sparked controversy over the years. The Torch is now seen as a “symbol of international brotherhood.”

There is always something stirring about the moment the Olympic cauldron is lit to signify that the Games have begun.

The International Olympic Committee says the flame “is a manifestation of the positive values that Man has always associated with the symbolism of fire and thus makes the link between the ancient and the modern Olympic Games.”

Many will possibly be reminded of when Cathy Freeman experienced a brief technical glitch while lighting the cauldron at the Sydney 2000 Olympics. Despite this hiccup, the moment remained powerful and symbolic,

WOORILLA WORDS

with Freeman’s role highlighting the significance of reconciliation and unity in Australia.

For many, the next two weeks will be a period of watching and cheering the home team and counting the medal tally and our place on the leader board.

Not everybody regards the Games positively. Today one of the most stringent criticisms is the cost of the event, particularly for the host nation.

The latest estimate of the budget for the Paris Olympics is $9.7 billion and yet less costly then London, $16.8 billion, Rio’s financial disaster at 23.6 billion)and Tokyo over 13.7 billion. Among the biggest costs are the investments in Infrastructures that often turn into white elephants and have little to do with the real needs of local people.

Add to that the cost of providing a safe environment for athletes, visitors and locals.

In Paris, 35,000 police officers are being employed each day with a peak of 45,000 for the opening ceremony. The attacks on the Paris fast trains showed that vigilance was indeed necessary.

Often the perceived long lasting commercial benefits have resulted in less than sensible actions: Greece tore up 2000 year old ruins, Russia trashed an entire village and London abandoned its carbon mitigating goals.

Heavy Vehicle Mechanics

Underlying the Greek Games in Olympia in 776BC was the rule that all; hostilities between states were to cease. A worthy requirement but sadly not adhered to in the modern Olympics.

Nevertheless, the goal of the modern Olympic movement is still to contribute to building a peaceful and better world by educating youth through sport, fair play and no discrimination of any kind.

This goal has remained elusive as Games in the past have been politicised `The 1936 games are remembered for Hitler’s propaganda to promote Aryan superiority’. Jesse Owens showed otherwise, becoming the first American of any race to win four gold medals in track and field in a single Olympics, an achievement that stood till 1984.

The 1972 Summer Games in Munich saw the death of two Israeli athletes killed and nine taken hostage and later killed. The Cold War saw a ban on the 1980 Moscow Games for the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, followed by a retaliatory boycott of the Los Angeles Games in 1984.

In the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, Australian sprinter and silver medallist Peter Norman stood on the podium alongside Tommie Smith and John Carlos, the American athletes who had finished first and third, respectively.

During the medal ceremony, Smith and Carlos famously raised their gloved fists in a Black Power salute to protest racial discrimination and human rights abuses. Norman showed his support for their cause by also raising his arm in a Black Power salute.

By doing so, Norman demonstrated his solidarity with Smith and Carlos’s protest against racial inequality and injustice.

Over the years, athletes have become faster and stronger: Citius, Altius, Fortius.

How much can or should a human body be pushed and to what end?

As Maya Angelou puts in The Runner’s

Lament: Legs weary, aching, I strain, Pushing through the pain, Body and mind locked in a race, Searching for that sacred space.”

And this brings us to who benefits from the Olympics in its present form? The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has faced several allegations and instances of corruption over the years. In response the IOC has undertaken various reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and governance.

Corporate influence on the Olympic Games and the IOC is also significant and multifaceted, with both positive and negative impacts.

The Olympic Games may seem to many as having reached their use by date. But does that mean it’s irredeemable.

Surely it’s possible to keep the best elements that suit our globalised world and recall Pierre de Coubertin’s vision of the modern Olympics as ‘a peace movement.’

Suggestions to do this abound. Imagine moving away from a single location and using the most suitable and most cost effective existing venues, doing away with flags and corporate sponsorship and just allowing the naturally talented youth of the world to come together in a spirit of celebration. Idealistic?

With every stride, I’m breaking free, The world a blur, just me and glee, Heart pounding, legs feeling light, I soar through space, taking flight.

From The Sprinter’s Euphoria” by Langston Hughes

Woorilla Poetry Prize 2024 is is open for submissions.

Please visit woorilla.org.au

Look back on local ruins

By Joy Gothe

On the banks of Lillydale Lake stands crumbling ruins of two stone walls, which are the sole remains of another essential building that once existed in the town.

The ruins of Cashin’s Mill are the sole physical remains and a reminder that it was also one of the first landmarks in the area and it was fully established before the town became known as Lilydale.

At the east end of the lakes dam wall is where the two storey stone flour mill majestically stood.

It was built in the early 1850s by Hugh Kneen

of Fitzroy, allowing flour miller, James Cashin who had newly arrived in the area with his family, to achieve his dream of owning a mill of his own, which soon became a reality and he established the first industry in the town and also built his family a cottage on the hillside above the mill.The remains of this building are significant because it was one of the first flour mills built in Victoria and the mill is now regarded as the town’s first industrial building.

Water from the Olinda Creek was diverted along a water-race to the mills huge waterwheel which provided the power to turn the grinding stones which ground the grain into flour.

Local farmers now had a choice to either

Exciting entertainment of show at local theatres

Burrinja Theatre

Helios – Wright and Grainger

Internationally award winning modern retelling of an ancient myth.

A lad lives half way up an historic hill.

A teenager is on a bad trip to the city in a stolen car. A boy is driving a chariot pulling the sun across the sky.

A story about the son of the god of the sun.

HELIOS transplants the Ancient Greek tale into a modern-day myth wound round the winding roads of rural England and into the everyday living of a towering city.

A story about life and life and the visible monuments we build into it.

Season: Friday 30 August at 7pm. Venue: Lyric Room.

1812 Theatre

The Sweet Delilah Swim Club

The Sweet Delilah Swim Club is the story of five unforgettable women who set aside a long weekend every August to meet at the same beach cottage, the Sweet Delilah to catch up, laugh, and meddle in each other’s lives.

An hilarious and touching comedy about friendship that ;lasts forever.

Season: 1 – 24 August.

1812 theatre in Association with Redfox3

Kemp’s curtain call

Theatre Company Coherence

Australian Premiere – Strictly Limited Season.

A group of friends gather for a dinner party where relationship tensions and secrets sizzle bellow the surface.

But when a comet passes close to Earth, it shuts down power supplies and phone connections.

Don’t mis this mind bending theatrical experience.

Season: 5 – 14 September.

Bookings: 9758 3964

REMEMBER:

· Lilydale Athenaeum theatre – Clue on Stage – Season: 5 – 21 September. Bookings; 9735 1777.

· National Theatre – A Chorus Line – Season: 7 – 22 September. Bookings: 0534 02212.

Same flaw as Asteroid City resurfaces in new movie

Deadpool and Wolverine

Starring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman

Rated MA15+

3.5/5

In Deadpool and Wolverine, the mutant mercenary Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds), aka Deadpool, must team up with the disgraced Logan (Hugh Jackman), aka Wolverine, to save his universe from deletion by the Time Variance Authority.

Jackman slips back into the fierce Logan/ Wolverine role as if he’d never left, and Reynolds remains a death-dealing good-hearted goofball as Wade/Deadpool. Wade and Logan have great adversarial chemistry, and share a moving arc of making a difference and learning to be a hero again.

Emma Corrin plays the villain Cassandra Nova with gleeful sadism, the bloody action is thrilling and well-shot, and the film is full of fun fan-service cameos.

Unfortunately, despite the multiverse-ending stakes, the plot proceeds with a serious lack of urgency, including a very slow middle and a rushed finale.

I normally like foppish villains such as Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor in Batman v Superman or John Travolta as Terl in Battlefield Earth (shut up; he’s fun), but Matthew Macfayden feels forced as TVA agent Mr Paradox.

From the comics to the films, Wade has al-

ways been an irreverent fourth-wall-breaking character, and the metatextual gags in the first two films are a fun garnish of self-commentary and self-deprecation over solid superhero drama.

In this third film, the corporate merging of Fox and Disney is writ so large across the narrative, with the Void as a metaphorical (yet also literal) dumping-ground for cancelled or rebooted franchises, that it’s hard to draw any real tension from the plot (see also The Wonder and Asteroid City, if you don’t mind me beating those dead horses).

Despite the poor pacing and taking the fourth-wall-breaking too far, Deadpool and Wolverine is a highly-entertaining superhero film that will delight fans of the title characters, and is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

send their grain to Melbourne by bullock dray or have it ground into flour, pollard and bran at Cashin’s Mill.

But sadly, by the end of 1864, production had dropped dramatically following severe insect attacks, floods, drought and rust which affected all the district cereal crops, so after a very wet season this left very little to harvest.

During the next few years, small quantities of wheat were grown but the wheat farming era of the district was finished and so was the mill.

The Cashin’s remained in Lilydale, and after James’ death in 1873, his sons took over the mill and started a saw mill on the site.

After a few years, the saw mill also ceased

CARTOON

and the building remained empty until it was destroyed by fire on 25 March 1915.

Since then, the mill has stood silent and gradually collapsed in on itself, but the small vestiges that remain today remind us of a once thriving industry and stands as a symbol to the wheat farming era of Lilydale.

In 1978, the Lions club expressed interest in rebuilding the mill as it used to be, but the project was so large and the skills required so difficult to come by that nothing came of the idea.

If you have an interest in Lilydale’s history or would like to come and volunteer visit our website at lilydalehistorical.com.au or email us at info@lilydalehistorical.com.au

Worthy YA historical novel

A review of The Killer Code by Ellie Marney

During the Second World War, the U.S. Army took over Arlington Hall, in Virginia, to house its code-breaking effort. The building used to be a junior college for women.

Then it became the base of thousands of women who used maths and patterns to decode intercepted enemy messages.

As DCist, a community news website in Washington, D.C., describes it: “The women of Arlington Hall...ultimately contributed to the breaking of several key codes, including the famous German Enigma machine, the Japanese Navy’s fleet code, the cipher used in communications from Japanese diplomats, and the code used by Japanese supply ships in the Pacific.”

In her YA historical fiction The Killing Code, Australian author Ellie Marney mentions a fellow novelist had wanted to write about codebreaking but was disheartened by the amount of research required.

Consider, for example, Enigma by Robert Harris, The Bletchley Girls by Tessa Dunlop, or Hidden Figures by Margo Lee Shetterly.

It’s definitely a daunting task.

But Marney fixed her mind to it and persevered, and the result is a brilliant example of “write what you want to read”.

The Killing Code tells the story of Kit, who is recruited by the U.S. Signals Intelligence agency to work at Arlington Hall in 1943.

When government girls are brutally murdered, she is drawn into the hunt for the serial killer. Kit joins forces with fellow codebreakers Dottie, Moya and Violet, and their friendships blossomed.

Readers are brought into their inner circle, aided by Marney’s meticulous research on everything American in the 1940s – from food and fashion to mannerisms and speech styles, and then to the cultural expectations and sociopolitical norms.

There is also considerable emphasis on the inner workings of the Army and its wartime intelligence work.

While the code-breaking process may be confusing without demonstrations at hand, there is sufficiently detailed depiction of the time and efforts involved, both individual and collective, to help readers comprehend its significance and complexity.

But the most noteworthy part of the novel, at least in this reviewer’s opinion, is how Kit and her cohort apply their code-breaking skills and insights to solving the crime.

These are the fundamental steps of psychologicalprofiling,gathering,decipheringandanalysing data in order to identify the behavioural patterns and psychological characteristics of the killer. The final and crucial clue comes from the process of breaking the Enigma codes, but the mystery of Kit’s identity is also satisfyingly solved. An equally impressive character isViolet from the segregated code-breaking unit, who is intelligent and fierce.

Indeed, the camaraderie, courage and commitment of not just the four girls but all the women contributing to the war effort is both endearing and empowering.

The Killing Code is a smart book in its gentle way of tackling difficult issues such as war, crime and punishment, racism and segregation, same-sex relationships, and women’s rights.

Subtly and effectively, it casts light on the many types of injustice in our society, while celebrating the good and the beautiful in our daily lives.

REV IT UP

Having

“We

During

Monbulk Smash Repairs’ Dan, Tim and Mitch can help with job. (Stewart Chambers 420127)

Monbulk Smash Repairs.

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 Immune system organ (6)

4 Clearly demonstrate; prove (6)

10 Was (5)

11 Gaseous fuel (9)

12 Binding agreements (9)

13 Port city in Belgium (5)

14 A counting number (6)

15 Cicatrix (4)

19 Greeting (Ital) (4)

20 Overseas (6)

24 Dollars (coll) (5)

25 The common people (3,6)

27 Training (9)

28 Sharp protrusion (5)

29 Restraint (6)

30 Commands (6)

DOWN

1 Chosen (8)

2 Plant yielding fragrant oil (8)

3 Declare one’s approval (7)

5 Traveller (7)

6 Family members (6)

7 Forces out (6)

8 Fashion designer, – Jacobs (4)

9 Ill from ocean movement (7)

16 Northern Indian state, Jammu and – (7)

17 Fuel pit (8)

18 Consultants (8)

19 Gush (7)

21 Software (7)

22 The best at (6)

23 Discharge (6)

26 Scottish island (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

No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

No. 196 No. 196

PRIVATE, QUIET, FAMILY HOME PROPERTY

PRIVATE, QUIET, FAMILY HOME

NESTLED on a spacious 3/4-acre lot, this charming brick home offers a perfect blend of comfort and functionality. Boasting four generously sized bedrooms, including a main bedroom with unfinished walk-in robe (or ensuite), the property is designed to meet all your family’s needs. The family bathroom features a luxurious soaking tub and separate shower, while an additional bathroom awaits your finishing touches with complete quality fittings included in the sale.

The home includes spacious, separate living areas—one with a cozy wood fire and the other adjoining the dining area and an open-plan kitchen. The kitchen is equipped with a new upright 5-burner stove, excellent storage, and ample counter space, making it a dream for any home chef. The updated laundry adds to the convenience, and with both heating and cooling systems, the home ensures year-round comfort.

Practicality is key with undercover access to the house from the double carport. Additionally, the workshop with a separate rumpus area provides a multitude of options, from a wellness Zen studio or work-fromhome office to an epic model railway room, gym, artist’s retreat, or playroom—the choice is yours.

Outdoors, the fully fenced allotment offers easy access and plenty of parking. Enjoy the beauty of the established seasonal gardens, which are arranged in manageable tiered sections. A huge front deck provides a lovely outlook, perfect for relaxing or entertaining.

The property also features a chook shed, wood shed, garden shed compost stalls, and two water tanks for garden use, enhancing its self-sufficiency and charm.

Situated in a great neighbourhood, with peace and privacy assured at the end of a no-through road adjoining a managed Vic Parks Nature zone, you are close to Cockatoo Township, this property has a lot to offer. ●

HOME FOCUS

PRIVATELY LOCATED FOUR BEDROOM HOME

THIS beautiful, character home is sure to tick all your boxes. With a wraparound verandah leading to the front door, step inside this four-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-living home, to find warm timber flooring, amazingly high ceilings, open plan living and all the creature comforts, and all located in a peaceful no-through-road location.

You are welcomed by a spacious formal entry. On the left head into the theatre/ rumpus/man cave or continue straight ahead into the spacious, open plan lounge/ dining room with soring pitched timber ceilings, stunning floorboards, and a toasty wood fire for those romantic nights in, whilst the home has gas ducted heating for the ultimate in comfort and convenience. Walk through to the dining area to the entertainer’s kitchen, complete with 900mm free standing antique style oven/stove an abundance of storage and brand-new ducted vacuum system. From the kitchen/dining you have direct access to a huge undercover deck overlooking the natural surrounds, the outdoor spa and the creek below, compete with a built-in bar, making it the perfect place to entertain family and friends. Add to the home a stylishly renovated family bathroom and laundry and new carpets to the robed bedrooms, the Master with a walk-in robe and gorgeous ensuite.

Outside there is a concreted circular drive, fully fenced rear yard to keep the kids and fur babies safe, the ultimate in chicken houses, landscaped gardens and paths with a cosy fire pit area, fully lined under house storage, a double carport providing under cover access to the home, a fully lined and insulated studio at the rear of the garage, and a double car drive through garage/ workshop with separate driveway access.

All this, privately located on over half acre – this property has something for everyone and there is nothing to do but move in and enjoy the Hill’s Lifestyle!

Call to arrange a private inspection today.

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

HOME ESSENTIALS

LOW MAINTENANCE AND MOVE IN READY

THIS immaculate three-bedroom, onebathroom unit has plenty to offer and only a short walk into Gembrook.

The kitchen, overlooking the rear courtyard features plenty of bench space, two good sized pantries and stainless steel wall mounted electric oven, gas stove top and dishwasher.

Open plan living and dining, with tiled flooring, gas ducted heating and split system cooling throughout the home, for year-round comfort.

The unit offers a large, carpeted master bedroom with built-in robes and ensuite effect to main bathroom, two further carpeted bedrooms also with built in robes and secondary powder room for guests.

Sliding doors from the dining area lead to the outdoors which offers a low maintenance garden and paved, fully fenced courtyard, perfect to keep your pets safe and secure. Also with rear external access to the single lock up garage, with remote door and internal access.

If you are looking to downsize, this over 55s unit is the perfect place to call home.

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

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

Stylish4 BedroomHome,PremiumLocation!

Thiscontemporaryresidenceoffers afamilylifestylesituatedin aquietcul-de-sacacrossfroma centralparkland.

Youarewelcomedintotheformalentryleadingtothespaciousloungeroomwithanabundance ofnaturallight &gaslogfire.Meanderingthroughtotheopenplankitchen,meals &familyroom completewithstonebenchtops,integratedfridge/freezer,S/SDW& appliances.Largeslidingdoors openontoanalfrescozonesurroundedbythelowmaintenancegardens.Fromtheentry,a stairway leadsyouuptotheupperlevel,arrivingata 3rdlivingroom,with4 generoussizedbedroomsallwith fittedmirroredrobes,includingthemasterbedroomwithWIR& ensuite& balcony.Otherfeatures include:3kWsolar,GDH &refrigeratedductedA/C &doublegaragewithinternalaccess.

BethanySullivan M 0438844968

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

Immaculate,CharacterHomewithManicuredGardens &ClosetoTown! Stepinsidethespaciousentryway,totherightisthehugemasterbedroomwithBIR &S/S.Acrossthe hallare2 moregoodsizebedrooms& therenovatedbathroom.Leadingintotherenovatedopen plankitchen,lookingoverthesunkendiningarea,thiskitcheniscompletewithhugepantry,double sink,& dishwasher.Alsoonthislevelistherenovatedlaundry& 2ndtoilet.Stepdownintothedining areawithglassslidingdoorsouttotherenovateddeckareacompletewithshadeblinds &woodfire. TheseparateloungewithS/S,withFrenchdoorsleadingtotheoutdoorlivingarea &fortheultimate incomfort& conveniencethehomehasgashydronicheatingthroughout.Thisfullyfencedproperty, withelectricfrontgates &sealeddriveway,featuringeasytomanagegardens,2 gardensheds,& tallcarporttostorelargevehicles.

ExpansiveFamilyHomeWithStudioand4 CarGarage! Thishomeissituatedonapprox.½ anacre &offersbeautifulviews.Thishomeofferszonedlivingwith 2bedroomsateachendofthehome, &anopenplanlayoutthatgives 2livingareas.Themaster bedroomhasa WIR,ensuite& splitsystemAC.Theopenlivingspacesfeaturehighvaultedceilings, skylights& plentyofwindowsoffering ahomefloodedwithnaturallight &cosywithductedgas heating.Thekitchenhasplentyofbenchspace, adishwasher& aninductioncooktop.Thereisa secondlivingspacewith awoodfire,&astudynook.Thefamilybathroomhasa bath &a separate shower.Externalfeaturesincludethedualaccessasphaltdriveways,4 carunderhousegaragewith powerandlights,doublecarport,chickencoop,vegetablegardens,entertainingpergola,pizza oven,&aconvertedshippingcontainer/homeoffice.

FAMILY ENTERTAINER WITH VALLEY VIEWS

OVERLOOKING a beautiful view of the nearby valley, this ‘larger than meets the eye’, family home offers spacious living, a stunning half acre garden and an excellent location.

Close to the Emerald township and with very easy access to Wellington Road, this property has been well designed to cater for any sized family with two separate living zones, a formal dining area plus relaxed meals area, four bedrooms – two being master suites with their own ensuites, three bathrooms and a modern, updated kitchen with walk in pantry. Drenched in natural sunlight, there is a stunning, oversized North facing decking that offers room for outdoor lounge, dining and BBQ space -The ideal place to enjoy the warmer weather in months to come.

Boasting gas ducted heating, split system, Rinnai heater and wood fire, the home is well equipped to offer a comfortable climate all year round. Outside, the magnificent 2142m2 block has been divided for ease of use creating a private rear garden oasis that is fenced and front garden that offers circular driveway, double carport and extra parking bay. An under-house workshop plus extra storage space under the decking has also been added for those who love to tinker, or great for any hobby enthusiast.

When location and size is high on your priority list, this beautiful home will certainly meet all your needs. ●

JUST LIKE BRAND NEW AND MOVE IN READY

THE perfect blend of heritage 1920’s architecture and contemporary style.

Featuring:

· Four bedrooms or three and a formal lounge

· The master – private and spacious – full rain shower ensuite and BIR’s

· Luxurious bathroom – soaking tub - rain shower – stone topped dual vanity - customized lighting, heated towel rails and auto fans

· A state of the art, white and bright kitchen awaits and will delight the avid chefs of the family. Abundant cabinetry and quality appliances.

· The living and dining room, with wood fire will be the ‘meeting place’ of the home, family comes together to eat, relax, and chat about the day.

· An attic is a fabulous ‘extra’ space, gaming room, theatre, office, yoga/meditation, even a library the choice is yours.

· A huge laundry completes the home.

· Oak laminate flooring, new carpets, NBN, data networked, ducted heating, wood fire, split system

Outdoors:

· Useable and fenced 1051m2, established gardens and lush fernery

· A four-car remote garage, rear access, and interior access into the home

· Sealed driveway

· A front porch, perfect for morning coffee

· Spacious covered rear deck with views across Gembrook

· Shed, power and wood store

Location:

Perfect location, just opposite the Primary School, walk into town for a coffee and cake, dinner, also bush walks and trail rides nearby, also 15 minutes to Pakenham rail connections, a bus stop nearby. Country lifestyle in contemporary splendour. Nothing left to do except unpack, this home offers the ultimate convenience for busy buyers seeking a hassle-free transition. ●

COmmUNITYFEEL &WALkINTOTOWN

Ifyouarelookingtodownsize,oryouwanttoaddtoyourpropertyportfolio,thenthis over55’sunitistheperfectinvestmentorplacetocallhome.Featuringanopenplan kitchen,livinganddining,kitchenwithexcellentstorage,goodsizedbedroomsbothwith bIR’s, 2WCs,en-suiteeffectbathroomanda separatelaundry,singleremotegarage withinternalaccess,ductedheatingand asplitsystemintheliving.Outdoorsoffers a courtyardforrelaxingorspendingtimepottering,visitorparkingandcommunalgrounds

PEACEFULSERENITYANDIDYLLICLIFESTYLE

Theperfectblendofconvenienceandserenity,accessedvia asealedroad,with a buildingenvelopeinpositiontomakeyourvisiona realitya loteasier(STCA).Thelandis mainlyclearedandisscenicallyblessed,overlookinga beautifuldam.Pleasenotedam iscommonproperty.Youareminutestocafes,specialtyshops,restaurants,amenities, primaryschool,busconnections,horsetrailsandhikes.Connectionsatthegateare electricityandtelephone.Domesticwaterrightswithscopetoincrease

mickDolphin 0429684522

ErinDavies 0493136937

Thischarmingbrickhomeoffers aperfectblendofcomfort &functionality.boasting generouslysizedbedrooms,spaciousseparatelivingareas-onewith awoodfire adjoiningdiningareaandanopen-plankitchen,updatedlaundry,undercoveraccess fromthedoublecarport,workshopwitha separaterumpusprovides amultitudeof options.Outdoorsisfullyfencedwithplentyofparking,establishedseasonalgardens,a hugefrontdeck,chook,wood &gardensheds,compoststalls &2 gardenwatertanks

mickDolphin 0429684522

APERFECTLOCATION

AnthonyIorlano 0494142438

$950,000-$1,035,000

EXCEPTIONALRESIDENCE

Nestledwithina quietcul-de-sac,whereprivacy,securityandpeaceofmindcome standard.Here,theworriesoftrafficandnoisearereplaced bythegentlehumofnature andthecomfortingembraceof aclose-knitcommunity.Thefabulousfloorplanoffers twoseparatelivingzones,twomaster suitesovertwolevels,spaciousloungewitha quaint balconyofferingpanoramicviewsofnaturalparklandandtheDandenongranges. Surrounded bylowmaintenancegardens &includesa doublegaragewithrearaccess. 4 A 2 B 2 C

JanBrewster 0409558805

1.

General Notices Trades & Services

NOTICE OF RESOLUTION UNDER SECTION 10A(1) OF THE DOMESTIC ANIMALS ACT 1994

Notice is given that at its meeting held on 15 July 2024, the Cardinia Shire Council resolved under section 10A(1) of the Domestic Animals Act 1994 as follows:

From 1 August 2024 Council will not register or renew the registration of a cat over 3 months old unless:

(a) the cat is desexed; or (b)the cat is exempt from being desexed under section 10B of the Domestic Animals Act 1994.

Carol Jeffs Chief Executive Officer

For further information contact Cardinia Shire Council Compliance Services on 1300 787 624

3.

district, the person in apparent control of the dog must keep the dog restrained by means of a chain, cord or leash not greater than three metres in length and attached to the dog.

(2)Sub-clause (1) does not apply to a dog being exercised in a designated off leash area in compliance with the conditions set out in clause 4.

4. Designated off leash areas

A dog may be exercised off a chain, cord or leash in a designated off leash area provided each of the following conditions are complied with:

(a)at all times the person exercising the dog must remain in effective voice or hand control of the dog and within constant sight of the dog so as to be able to promptly place the dog on a chain, cord or leash if that becomes necessary;

(b)the person exercising the dog must be 16 years of age or over;

(c)any children under the age of 16 in the designated off leash area must be supervised at all times;

(d)a person may be in control of no more than two dogs;

(e)at all times the person exercising the dog must carry a chain, cord or leash not greater than three metres in length;

(f)the dog must be on a chain, cord or leash when entering or exiting the designated off leash area;

(g)a female dog must not be brought into the designated off leash area if the dog is on heat; and (h)the person exercising the dog must pick up and lawfully dispose of all excrement from the dog, including to use bins where provided by Council for that purpose.

5. Definitions

In this order –

Council means Cardinia Shire Council.

Designated off leash area means the part of each of the following reserves identified on maps published on the Council’s website (www.cardinia.vic.gov.au) as being an off leash area and designated with off leash area signage at the reserve:

(a) Don Jackson Reserve, far end of Ahern Road, Pakenham;

(b)Toomuc Creek Linear Reserve, south of Princes Highway and east of Warwick Bayley Oval, Pakenham; (c)Alma Treloar Reserve, corner of Bailey and Pakenham Roads, Cockatoo;

(d) Cochrane Park, Koo Wee Rup

(e)Garfield Recreation Reserve, Fourteen Mile Road, Garfield;

(f)Tantallon Boulevard Detention Basin Reserve, Beaconsfield;

(g)Pepi’s Land, Puffing Billy Walking Track, Kilvington Drive, Emerald;

(h) Cockatoo Road Reserve, Pakenham; (i) Simon Drive Reserve, Pakenham;

(j) Bob Burgess Reserve, Princes Highway, Beaconsfield; (k) Vantage Drive Reserve, Pakenham;

(l) Ray Canobie Reserve, Duncan Drive, Pakenham;

Onyx Reserve, Onyx Crescent, Officer.

‘Outrage’ over 35m tower

By Ava Cashmore

Menzies Creek residents are “outraged” by the proposal to build a 5G telecommunications tower facility in front of their home. While unopposed to the installation of a tower to provide better reception for the community, especially in case of an emergency, residents are against the location in the current proposal by CPS technology. A neighbouring School Rd resident also shares this view, given that the proposal suggests the tower be built about “five metres from their window”.

Bill and Sue Batten have lived on School Rd for 44 years, and been integral members of the community. They live next to the proposed tower site.

“It will affect immediate residents adversely” Sue said.

For Sue and Bill, their main concern is the decrease in real estate value. As stated by a local real estate agent, “the tower will decrease the selling price of houses on School Rd”.

When Bill contacted CPS technology, the company that would be installing the tower regarding property value concerns, their reply included “Since the mid-1990s, thousands of telecommunication facilities have been installed throughout Australian metropolitan and regional areas. During this period, property values have continued to increase.”

For Bill, this response “was laughable”.

The construction of the tower “will affect the whole spectrum of residents”, Sue said.

Young neighbours Jacob and Yara Baker share the same concern for the tower proposal, with fears of the “health risks” it may present. “There’s no long-term studies into health risks because it’s new technology.”

“So with this 5G tower coming into place, while we’re potentially looking at starting a family, do we want to actually go through that process within 20 metres of a tower?”

The Steiner school, located 200 metres from the proposed site, shares similar concerns. Many families have questioned their choice to attend the Steiner school should the tower be built, due to health concerns.

“Families come to our kinder because of its beautiful setting, it’s a lovely little community.

A 5G tower isn’t what people have signed up for.

We do not want to lose enrolments” said Cath Lanigan, business manager of the Steiner school.

“There’s also a huge hypocrisy in the mat-

ter,” said Bill Batten, “We live in the primary scenic corridor of Puffing Billy. If we want to paint our roof a different colour, we have to get permits… but apparently they can build a 35 metre tower, with a six by eight metre compound below it”.

“The average power pole is six to eight metres tall, just imagine what a 35 metre tower will look like”, Jacob said.

“It’s very deceptive”, Bill said. CPS technology has provided images of what the proposed tower will look like, but “they may as well have taken the photo from Belgrave”.

Jacob also questions the finances behind the project.

“I think for an area that’s meant to be historical and protected, for them to put something up in the middle of the community just to gain revenue is disgusting.”

The tower is assisted by the PUMP program (Peri-Urban Mobile Program), an initiative by the government to push for better services among bushfire prone areas, such as Menzies Creek.

“So many people think the tower placed on School Rd is the only option… like if we don’t have it here, then everyone’s going to suffer. When there’s a fire, you know, we’ll have it on our head. And it’s just rubbish”.

Sue and Bill propose that the tower be built somewhere outside of the resident area, even suggesting several smaller towers be built around the suburb.

Following Facebook debates and over-thefence conversation, Bill and Sue organised a community meeting to “establish a single community voice”. With approximately 55 members in attendance, Bill deemed that the meeting was a success.

At the end of the meeting the community voted either against or in favour of supporting the tower and facility at the location listed within the current proposal, knowing that if turned down, there may not be another location provided.

Two community members raised their hands for the proposal to go ahead.

Some 53 community members do not support the installation of the tower as outlined by the current proposal.

The community had until 24 July to register any complaints, and now awaits a decision from CPS technology as to whether they will move forward with the installation of the tower.

The proposed site on Puffing Billy Railway Menzies Creek Museum next to residential area (Stewart Chambers: 418012)

Cyclist warms up for Paris

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Old-timer cycling champion Simon Clarke, who currently rides for Israel-Premier, will be heading to Paris to represent the Green and Gold in his second olympics.

It is an exciting and proud moment for the Hills and the Dandenongs community to see yet another member of this community represent not only the Outer East communities but also the nation.

He made his debut Olympic ride in the 2016 Rio Olympics, in 2022 Mr Clarke won the fifth stage of the Tour de France and this weekend, he will be entering his second Olympics.

The second-time Olympian is currently racing the Tour de Wallonie, which is a stage race cycling race on the UCI Europe Tour - it typically runs in Wallonia, the French-speaking part of Belgium at the end of July.

“The race in Paris will be 270 km because it’s a one-day race, whereas stage races are normally around 200 km per day,” he said.

“I’m doing a lead up race in Belgium this week, getting ready for my race in Paris.”

He’s been in Belgium since last Sunday 21 July and after his race in Belgium, he will be heading to Paris for the Olympics on Friday afternoon.

Mr Clarke was a resident of Upwey and Selby before he moved to Europe when he was merely 16 while his mother now resides in Kallista.

Adelaide in January, the week after I often race in the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race in Geelong - they are the only two races I do in Australia each year,” Mr Clarke said.

He said the biggest challenge for him is moving to Europe which often comes with a language barrier.

“I moved to Italy when I was in my mid teens, I had to learn Italian, and I ended up marrying an Italian,” he said.

“Learning to live life over here, but perform as well as you do when you are in the comfort of your own home and your family’s support, you need to be able to replicate those performances and play around the world with much less support - that’s probably the biggest challenge.”

“I’ve now spent more years of my life in Europe, Australia is still my home, but I also feel very at home living in Europe.”

When he’s not cycling, he loves playing golf but with two young children, hobbies are on the back burner.

“We spend a lot of time away from home, not only with racing, but also with preparation,” he said.

“I enjoyed it a lot, and ended up joining a club, and passing through cycling to the top,” he said.

The cycling season in Europe goes from January to October.

“In November and December I usually

He attended Selby Primary School and got into cycling through the Great Victorian Bike Ride, which was entered through the school.

Ferntree Gully paramedic competing on world stage

Ferntree Gully paramedic Ray Whittington thought an Ironman triathlon – a 3.8km swim, a 180km bike ride and a marathon –was unachievable when he first started triathlons in 2018.

Now, he’s not only completed one, but done it on the world stage, after taking to the course at the 2023 Ironman World Championships in Nice, France.

The sport of Ironman takes discipline to stick to long-term goals and training plans, something the paramedic said is a challenge but also rewarding.

“I love having a long-term goal and being 100 per cent committed to something,” Ray said.

“It’s obviously a lot of training over many months but it’s worth it for the delayed gratification after building to something that big.

“When I started completing short-distance triathlons, Ironman just seemed like an unachievable dream so it’s cool seeing where you can get to and what your body can do.”

Ray became a paramedic with AV in 2014 and it was that career choice that set him on the path to Ironman.

“I used to play hockey but working as a paramedic, it can be hard to maintain team sports,” he said.

“I started competing in open water swim races and that led me into short-distance triathlons.

“I just built up distance over time until I got to my first Ironman in 2022, and now I’ve completed five Ironman races including the World Championships.”

The training to be an Ironman is intense – many weeks involve more than 20 hours of swimming, running, cycling and more to get his body into top shape.

Ray said he couldn’t do it without the support of his partner Sarah.

“Balancing training and work can be tough at times so it’s important to have good support at home,” Ray said.

“Sarah’s insanely supportive – I don’t know how she puts up with me hardly ever being home!

“She’s the one holding it all together while I just work, train and sleep.

“She’s the only reason I’m able to work full time and train that much.”

As one way to say thank you, Ray planned an epic proposal at the finish line of the Ironman World Championships in Nice, carrying the ring through the whole race.

“I had the ring taped to my wrist – the swim was very stressful!” Ray said.

“I proposed in the finishing chute before I crossed the finish line.

“I wanted it to be a sign of what we could accomplish together with each other’s support.”

For Ray, Nice was about the experience and completing the tough course.

His new goal is to make it back to the World Championships in 2026, when the men’s race is held at the iconic Kona course in Hawaii.

“I’m trying to get to Kona and had hoped to qualify this year,” Ray said.

“I raced the Cairns Ironman in June and was hoping to get a Kona spot then but it didn’t happen, so I’ve got to re-evaluate the plan and focus on 2026.

“Cairns was still significant because it was my first time breaking 10 hours.

“Now that race is done though, Sarah and I can start planning our wedding.”

come back a little bit earlier to the Dandenongs and see my family, I stay on for the race and as soon as the racing’s done, I head back to Europe,” he said.

He’s been a professional cyclist for over 16 years, doing tours in Europe as well as around Australia.

“Every year I race the Tour Down Under

“Prior to this race in Belgium, I spent two weeks in the Italian Alps training for the Olympics, we spent so much time away from home that when I’m not racing and not away, I try to spend time with my family.”

”I’m forever grateful for everyone’s support, I know a lot of people back home follow me, and I really appreciate that - it spurs me on.”

Weather woes take a toll

By Armin Richter FOOTBALL

PREMIER DIVISION (split round 14)

· Seniors: Monbulk 13.9.87 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 1.7.13; Upwey-Tecoma 15.21.111 def Berwick Springs 4.1.25; Gembrook-Cockatoo 8.11.59 def Mt. Evelyn 2.8.20;

· Reserves: Monbulk 6.10.46 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 3.6.24; Upwey-Tecoma 18.17.125 def Berwick Springs 0.0.0; Gembrook-Cockatoo 4.6.30 def Mt. Evelyn 1.9.15

DIVISION ONE (round 15)

· Seniors: Healesville 12.10.82 def Yarra Glen 0.0.0; Seville 31.21.207 def Yarra Junction 0.0.0; Belgrave 11.11.77 def Alexandra 10.10.70; Warburton-Millgrove 5.10.40 def Yea 3.7.25; Powelltown bye

· Reserves: Healesville 17.25.127 def Yarra Glen 0.0.0; Seville 17.13.115 def Yarra Junction 0.1.1; Belgrave 12.16.88 def Alexandra 0.1.1; Warburton-Millgrove 15.6.96 def Yea 2.5.17; Powelltown bye

· UNDER 19s: Upwey-Tecoma 11.15.81 def Wandin 5.1.31

· UNDER 18s: Mt. Evelyn 9.12.66 def UpweyTecoma 6.5.41; Woori Yallock 19.24.138 def Seville 1.2.8; Healesville 9.12.66 def OlindaFerny Creek 5.2.32

SENIOR WOMEN

· Division 1: Healesville 5.1.31 def Pakenham 3.5.23; Olinda-Ferny Creek 3.9.27 def Belgrave 0.0.0; Upwey-Tecoma 3.10.28 def Berwick Springs 2.2.14

· Division 2: Officer 6.7.43 def Emerald 2.1.13; Monbulk 5.4.34 def Warburton-Wesburn 2.11.23; Seville 6.3.39 def Thornton Eildon 3.5.23;WooriYallock 4.8.32 defWandin 4.4.28

NETBALL PREMIER DIVISION

· A Grade: Mt. Evelyn 43 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 13; Monbulk 87 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 23; Upwey-Tecoma 65 def Berwick Springs 18

· B Grade: Mt. Evelyn 58 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 38; Monbulk 37 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 27; Upwey-Tecoma 61 def Berwick Springs 28

· C Grade: Mt. Evelyn 46 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 17; Olinda-Ferny Creek 27 def Monbulk 23; Upwey-Tecoma 45 def Berwick Springs 10

· D Grade: Mt. Evelyn 34 def Gembrook-Cockatoo 5; Monbulk 28 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 22; Upwey-Tecoma 32 def Berwick Springs 24 DIVISION ONE

· A Grade: Yarra Glen 54 def Healesville 37; Seville 59 def Yarra Junction 35; Alexandra 51 def Belgrave 31; Warburton-Millgrove 62 def Yea 13

· B Grade: Yarra Glen 51 def Healesville 15; Seville 60 def Yarra Junction 15; Belgrave 76 def Alexandra 17;Yea 28 defWarburton-Millgrove 27; Powelltown bye

· C Grade: Yarra Glen 61 def Healesville 6; Seville 49 def Yarra Junction 12; Belgrave 73 def Alexandra 7, Warburton-Millgrove 31 def Yea 15; Powelltown bye

· D Grade: Seville 48 def Yarra Junction 15; Belgrave 21 drew Alexandra 21; WarburtonMillgrove 37 def Yea 3; Powelltown + Yarra Glen bye

· 17 & Under Premier: Pakenham def Mt. Evelyn (forfeit);Wandin 46 def Berwick 19; ROC 33 def Narre Warren 10; Woori Yallock bye · 15 & Under East: Berwick 31 def Narre Warren 23; Woori Yallock 30 def Beaconsfield 16; Monbulk 24 def Pakenham 22; ROC bye

Peri Reid was unstoppable against her former team with 72 goals. (Supplied)

Ray Whittington cycling at the 2024 Cairns Ironman. (Ambulance Victoria)

Australian pro cyclist Simon Clarke will be cycling his second Olympics in Paris. (File)

Monbulk push continues

By Armin Richter

FOOTBALL SENIORS

Monbulk continued with their push towards a finals berth on Saturday when the Hawks were at home to Olinda in cold and wet conditions. Playing with great determination and intensity, Monbulk were able to apply pressure to the Bloods ball carriers and then quickly transfer it to their forward line. Despite the miserable conditions, the Hawks were deadly in front of goal early, and had notched 10 straight goals by half time while Olinda laboured on 5 behinds.

The Hawks didn’t take their foot off the pedal for a minute, although their accuracy was more in line with the inclement weather after the long break. Olinda scored their only goal late in the third term courtesy of a free kick and 25 metre penalty. The game came to its conclusion with both sides fighting it out to the end. Olinda’s score of 1.7.13 was its lowest at Monbulk in 22 years, since registering 1.3.9 in 2002. The Bloods’ lowest ever score against the Hawks was 1.1.7 at Olinda in 2004.

Premier Division has 12 clubs and will hold a Final Six this season. The win lifts Monbulk into equal sixth, level with Mt. Evelyn, whom they will face this week in a match that may decide both teams’ finals ambitions. After losing their opening seven matches, the Hawks have been 6-1 since then, with convincing wins over Upwey (fourth) and Olinda (fifth) in the last 3 rounds.

Monbulk 13.9.87 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 1.7.13

· Best: Lochlan Beecroft, Campbell Evans, Robert Savory, Joshua Spencer, Ziggy Hatherley, Lachlan Smith

· Goals: Lochlan Beecroft 2, Brodie Emmett 2, Ziggy Hatherley 2, Max Thornton 2, Lachlan Smith 2, Ben Hughson 1, Pat Barge 1, Adam Banks 1

RESERVES

For the Reserves it was all about honouring Michael Langworthy in his 250th Senior/Reserve grade game. ‘Langers’ holds the all time record at the club for goals kicked at senior level with 442, which included 73 in 2011 to be the leading goalkicker of the League after finals and is one of just 17 players to have played 200 Senior matches with the Hawks. He had originally begun with the Monbulk Junior Football Club in 1995 and, counting all his appearances at both senior and junior level at Monbulk, he has now played 411 games over 30 years.

‘Langers’ is the current Reserves Co-Coach with Dean White, who had also passed the 250 game milestone earlier this year. Monbulk and Olinda both went into the game sitting on four wins. The Bloods looked to spoil the party by playing some solid football in the first half and held a narrow three point advantage at the main break. The wet slippery conditions made it a slog for the last 40 minutes as Monbulk gained the ascendancy and kept Olinda scoreless for that period.

Monbulk 6.10.46 def Olinda-Ferny Creek

3.6.24

· Best: Hamish Emmett, Ryan Gilbert, Johnathon Hevern, Noah Rutherford, Jacob Defina, Dale Ross

· Goals: Michael Langworthy 3, Hamish Emmett 1, Ben Grimes 1, Steven Shankly 1 WOMEN’S

The Monbulk Senior Women’s team was also playing at home against Warburton-Wesburn in a battle between first and second. The first half was affected by the wind and it was Monbulk who handled these conditions better to lead 4.2 to 1.3 at half time. The rain began in the second half and, while the Burras had more scoring opportunities, the Hawks maintained a handy lead throughout to eventually triumph by 11 points. Monbulk now sit a game clear on top of the ladder with one round remaining before finals and have secured the double chance. An injury to Jade McCormick being the only concern coming out of the game.

Monbulk 5.4.34 def Warburton-Wesburn

2.11.23

· Best: Shania Turner, Scarlett Henderson, Maddison Dodd, Stacey Jolly, Yanessa Hancock-Wolfe, Hannah Koolstra

· Goals: Scarlett Henderson 4, Kathryn Gow 1 NETBALL A GRADE

The wet chilly conditions don’t seem to faze the Hawks. In similar circumstances to the Berwick Springs match a month ago, the rain lashed encounter with Olinda on the Monbulk courts didn’t dampen the Hawks’ scoring power. After establishing a 24 goal break by half time, Monbulk went to town in the second

half with a dominating 50-10 scoreline in the closing two quarters.The final score of 87 goals is a new club record against Olinda, and also the highest score of either team against each other, eclipsing Olinda’s 84 goals in 2016. Peri Reid was in superb form. Her 72 goals was a club record against Olinda (her former club) and just short of Lauren Byrne’s all time club record of 77, scored in 2017 against Gembrook. Georgia Himmelreich played her 50th game for the club.

Monbulk remains tied for third with Mt. Evelyn, who they face this week in a critical clash. The Hawks and Rovers drew last time, with Monbulk having the second best attack in the League, behind Narre Warren, and Mt. Evelyn having the best defence.

Monbulk 87 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 23

· Best: Jamie Clark, Peri Reid, PaigeWhitworth

· Goals: Peri Reid 72, Elly Stewart 15.

B GRADE

Monbulk’s B Grade team, in seventh place, ground out a 10 goal win against the tenth placed Olinda. The win leaves them just half a game behind Wandin, who are sixth. They face a difficult run home with four of the top five clubs in the coming weeks but will face that challenge head on. The side is missing a few players at the moment, including shooter Jorja Wragg, Georgia Wilson and Alice McCormick.

Alice is currently representing Australia in the World Junior Ultimate Frisbee Championships in England.

Monbulk 37 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 27

· Best: Elizabeth Cutting, Tiana Mancarella, Siobhan Munday

· Goals: Chloe Carmichael 23, DaynaWalsham 9, Chloe Schmidtke 5

C GRADE

The Hawks had a chance to strengthen their hold on a top six spot with their match against the Bloods. In tough conditions Olinda played their best game of the year and Monbulk were unable to get some shots to drop through the ring. Monbulk went down by four goals but still hang on to sixth place.

Monbulk 23 def by Olinda-Ferny Creek 27

· Best: Sammi Kelly, Lisa Boyle, Tara Donald

· Goals: Jamie Sands 16, Chloe Carmichael 4, Lisa Boyle 3

D GRADE

Monbulk had only ever beaten Olinda twice in D Grade, most recently in Round 10 2018. The rapidly improving young squad played a brilliant first half and held an 18-10 advantage by half time in blustery morning conditions. For the second half it was an even struggle and the Hawks claimed their fourth scalp of the season with a gutsy six goal win.

Monbulk 28 def Olinda-Ferny Creek 22

· Best: Hayley Donald, Maddy Buckland, Jessica Steele

· Goals: Hayley Donald 17, Maddy Buckland 11

UNDER 15s

Having played just one match in the last month, the youngest Hawks were in fourth place coming into their game against third placed Pakenham. With a small gale blowing it was tricky to lay up shots on goal. The Lions looked to have established a match winning lead of 15 to 10 by half time, and were still 3 goals up going into the last quarter towards the end where most of the scoring had been done. The Hawks however played one of their best quarters in the final term to win it 8-3 and be two goals up when the final siren sounded. They now move back to third on match ratio. Monbulk 24 def Pakenham 22

· Best: Stevie Mullinder, Kaitlyn Summers, Stella Dunstan

· Goals: Kaitlyn Summers 14, Isla

Stubbs 10

Four Hawk defenders - Dylan Werts, Mitch Veit, Patty Barge and Rob Savory - outnumber a lone Olinda forward (Supplied: Anthea Heagney)

Monbulk captain Patty Barge emerges with the ball

Monbulk’s Lachie Smith sets himself for a mark

Monbulk coach Matt Cunningham plans a final assault at three-quarter time.