For 50 years and counting, the outer eastern suburbs have been nurtured, cared for and provided support through EACH’s many services.
From financial counselling, alcohol and other drug support to housing services, mental health support and so much more, the service has extended beyond its original footprint of the Maroondah Social Health Centre to providing community health and support services all along the east coast.
Marking the final destination of the birthday bus tour, staff gathered at the Ringwood East site, the foundational home of EACH, to celebrate the milestone but to recognise the work being done throughout Melbourne at Ferntree Gully, Narre Warren and Boronia.
To read more, turn to page 8
Fight for workers
By Mikayla Van Loon
When the prospect of returning to work after injury fades, the state’s workers compensation framework is meant to guide and support those unable to because of their condition.
Yet a Launching Place mother and a volunteer dedicating her time to helping people through the claims process tell a very different story of the system.
Former Boral Quarries Montrose employee
Joanna McNeill, who was diagnosed with silicosis from exposure to silica dust as an administrative worker in 2019, said she has been met with hurdles at nearly every stage of her WorkSafe Victoria claim process since being approved.
Injured Worker Support Team (IWST) volunteer Vasalia Govender, who worked as a health and safety representative in the disability sector, has shifted her focus to guiding others from all industries through, what she described, as a difficult system to navigate.
Because she knew the legislation and process, Vasalia said many of her claims were accepted without dispute but she discovered this wasn’t the case for many people.
“I found that other injured workers in the disability sector who had claims terminated, and it became a real issue,” she said.
“So 10 years ago, that’s when I actually started assisting injured workers, helping them to get claims accepted.
“The rule is simple, if you get hurt whilst at
work or work is the contributing factor, your claim is to be accepted. But what I found was that claims were being rejected without any evidence, even when the medical evidence supported the injury.”
In 2021, Vasalia started IWST to assist injured workers through their claims with WorkSafe.
The community of injured workers Vasalia currently supports is 327, with 38 waiting to be admitted into the group.
The EACH bus toured every one of its sites with staff, like Michelle Addicott the Ferntree Gully location, helping celebrate 50 years. (Stewart Chambers: 428711)
NEWS Short Stay Levy Bill fears
By Dongyun Kwon
Eildon MP Cindy McLeish is worried about the Short Stay Levy Bill 2024 introduced into Parliament on Tuesday 27 August.
The legislation introduces a 7.5 per cent levy from 1 January 2025 on short stay accommodation bookings, including bookings made through platforms such as Airbnb and Stayz.
Short stay rentals reduce the number of properties available for longer term accommodation for families who need a place to live.
“We’re unlocking more homes for real rentals, and unlocking more funding for social housing,” treasurer Tim Pallas said.
“This is an important step towards making more properties available for long-term rental, and we’ve consulted with the sector to make sure we’ve got the balance right.”
In Victoria, there are around 63,000 short stay accommodation places, and nearly half of these are in regional Victoria.
Almost 50,000 of those places are entire homes which are not available for long-term rental.
Ms McLeish said it was disappointing to see the State Government adding 7.5 per cent to the cost of renting a short stay place for a family or person wanting to get away and have a break.
“Tourism plays a huge role in the Yarra Valley,” she said.
“It’s not fair that in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis, the Allan Labor government imposed an additional 7.5 per cent.
“It’s another tax that Victorians don’t need, that is being used to plug Labor’s budget.”
Expected to raise around $60 million a year, all revenue will go to Homes Victoria to support the building and maintenance of social and affordable housing, with 25 per cent of funds to be invested in regional Victoria.
Ms McLeish said this is nothing more than another tax grab, this time on Victorians wanting to take a holiday.
“Labor’s Holiday and Tourism Tax will do nothing to address the fundamental causes of Victoria’s housing affordability crisis and isn’t about getting more homes built,” she said.
“It’s about bailing out Labor’s Homes Victoria
agency, which is $185.6 million in the red.
“Under Labor, Victoria already has the highest property taxes in the nation, which are driving away the investment needed to get more homes built.”
The levy will not apply to a homeowner leasing out all or part of their principal place of residence for a short stay.
When a homeowner goes on holiday and someone else stays there temporarily, the levy does not apply.
Commercial accommodation such as hotels, motels and caravan parks are also exempt.
The levy will also only apply to stays less than 28 days.
Transitional arrangements will be in place,
Apply for disaster assistance
Storm-impacted communities like the Yarra Ranges and Cardinia will be able to access disaster assistance after a joint announcement from the Australian and Victorian Governments.
“It’s been a long and stressful week for those who’ve been affected by this weather event – I want to thank communities for their patience as emergency services have worked to clear debris and get power reconnected,” Victorian emergency services minister Jaclyn Symes said.
“Together we are helping people get back to normal as quickly as possible, by making houses safe and restoring the essential public assets that communities need.”
Individuals and councils impacted across the state during the August storms will be eligible for the jointly funded under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
This can be used by councils to coordinate debris removal from homes to make them safe and habitable. Emergency relief payments have also been made available for eligible community members whose homes have been damaged by storms in Victoria and their principal place of residence is uninhabitable or cannot be accessed. The Victorian Government will work directly with eligible individuals and families.
The funding also allows for emergency and as-
set reconstruction works to restore essential public assets like footpaths, bridges, levees and other infrastructure,supportinglocalcommunitiesintheir recovery.
“The assistance being activated today will help councils clean up communities as quickly as possible, ensure public safety and reinstate critical assets,” Federal emergency management minister Jenny McAllister said.
“I’d like to commend the work of first responders who have had to manage high volumes of calls forassistanceandbravedifficultconditionstohelp their communities.”
Councils currently eligible for assistance are Baw Baw Shire, Cardinia Shire, Greater Shepparton City, Latrobe City, Mansfield Shire, Murrindindi Shire and Yarra Ranges Shire.
The number of Victorian councils eligible for disaster assistance is expected to increase as councils assess damage and formally notify for assistance. The list of eligible councils will continue to be updated on the Disaster Assist website: disasterassist.gov.au
For information about relief and recovery support, communities are encouraged to contact their local council. Information is also available on the VicEmergency website: emergency.vic.gov.au/relief
and the levy will not apply to bookings made prior to 1 January 2025.
The Victorian Government is also giving local communities the ability to respond to local concerns, with owners’ corporations now able to ban short stays in their developments if approved by 75 per cent of owners.
There will also be changes to the planning system to give local councils the power to regulate short stay accommodation.
Victoria Tourism Industry Council chief executive officer Felicia Mariani also showed her concern after the new legislation was introduced.
Ms Mariani said the biggest issue since the tax was announced was the lack of engagement and consultation with industry.
“Industry is imploring the government to consult with us, engage with us, and then we can create and implement systems that work for all of us and achieve the outcome government is looking for without destroying an industry in the process,” she said.
“There’s only three months now to figure out how this tax is going to work in practice and the government is relying on the short stay systems to make changes in their systems they don’t have capacity for.
“On top of that, industry is now in a terribly exposed position as local councils have been given a green light to slap an additional tax on top of what is already in place, meaning this could end up being a 15 or 20 per cent tax in reality, or more.”
Reminder to register your planned burn-offs online
As hundreds of thousands of Victorians begin preparing their property for fire season, emergency services are encouraging landowners to register any planned burn-offs online, through the Fire Permits Victoria website.
Landowners will be looking to take advantage of the spring conditions and authorities expect a surge in burn-off registrations over the coming weeks.
The quickest and easiest way to register your burn-off is by using the Fire Permits Victoria website at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au/ notify.
Triple Zero Victoria chief operating officer Nicole Ashworth said registering a burn-off online was quick and easy.
“Using the Fire Permits Victoria website to register your burn-off helps keep our nonemergency phone lines free for higher priority calls,” Nicole said.
“Every year at this time we see a spike in demand on the phone lines as landholders look to take advantage of suitable weather in the lead up to the fire danger period. This can sometimes lead to long wait times to register your burn-off.”
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said the Fire Permits Victoria website is the preferred platform for community members to register their burns.
“By registering your burn-off, it allows emergency services to verify the fire is not an emergency and avoid unnecessary call outs for local brigades,” Jason said.
“It also allows us to display burn-offs on the CFA website, preventing needless calls to Triple Zero (000).”
The website allows you to notify emergen-
cy services of your burn-off, and also check and apply for a permit, if necessary. However, if your burn is taking place within the next two hours, you must register your burn via the phone line on 1800 668 511.
For more information about burning off safely, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/burnoff. Before you notify us, make sure you:
• Follow regulations or laws by CFA and local council.
• Notify your neighbours if the burn will generate fire and smoke.
• Check the weather conditions are safe to burn. Postpone your activity if high fire risk conditions develop.
• Establish a gap in vegetation or fire break of no less than three metres cleared of all flammable material.
• There are enough people to monitor, contain and extinguish the burn safely and effectively. Never leave a burn-off unattended.
The CFA and Triple Zero are advising people to register their burn-off online ahead of the fire season. (Supplied)
Residents in both Yarra Ranges and Cardinia council area may be eligible for disaster assistance. (Stewart Chambers: 430139)
Eildon MP Cindy McLeish is disappointed at the Short Stay Levy Bill 2024 being introduced. (File: 308811)
Two deaths on road
Yarra Ranges experienced a terrible 18 hour period on the roads last week, as two men died in two separate collisions.
An 81-year-old Mooroolbark man was identified as the victim of the second collision, with a woman now charged with his death.
On Wednesday evening, a 62-year-old man from Yellingbo was crossing the road in Woori Yallock when he was struck by a car.
Emergency services were called to reports a pedestrian had been struck at the intersection of the Warburton Highway and Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road about 6.30pm on 4 September.
The man was treated at the scene but could not be revived.
The driver of the car, a Yarra Junction man, was arrested at the scene and interviewed by police. He was released pending summons.
The following day, a male cyclist was killed in
Emergency services were called to reports a cyclist had been hit along Surrey Road, adjacent to the Warburton Golf Club, at about 11.15am on Thursday 5 September.
Ambulance Victoria paramedics responded, with the HEMS air ambulance also landing nearby, at around 11.20am.
The man, later identified as an 81-year-old from Mooroolbark, was treated at the scene but could not be revived.
The driver of the car, a 30-year-old Warburton woman, has been charged with dangerous driving causing death.
She was bailed to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 11 September.
Anyone who witnessed either incident or who has footage, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppersvic. com.au
This was the fourth pedestrian to be killed in a collision in the Yarra Ranges and Maroondah areas since June.
A man was killed on Dorset Road in Croydon on 16 June, an 81-year-old pedestrian died in hospital after being struck by a car in Mooroolbark on 24 June and a 57-year-old Lilydale man died after being struck and thrown into the path of another vehicle on 16 August.
These were the only pedestrian deaths to be recorded in the local government areas since 2022, with one pedestrian in the Yarra Ranges losing their life that year, making this a particularly devastating four months.
As of 3 September, 35 pedestrians had lost their lives from vehicle collisions in Victoria, a 40 per cent increase on last year’s figure of 25.
A total of 198 lives have been lost on Victorian roads this year.
Police act to curb number plate thefts
In an effort to curb increasing number plate thefts occurring around the Mooroolbark area, police will be running an event next week offering both awareness tips and free resources.
Victoria Police’s Operation SafePL8 provides officers the opportunity to hand out antitheft screws which go a long way in preventing number plates from being stolen.
Having seen what Mooroolbark Police called a “dramatic increase” in plate thefts, officers will be set up at Mooroolbark Train Station on 17 September to provide free anti-theft screws to any one who wants them.
“Criminals will steal number plates and attach them to different cars, which are often stolen, to avoid detection whilst committing serious offending such as burglaries, armed robberies and thefts,” an Eyewatch post reads.
The community focused initiative aims to provide residents of Mooroolbark and surrounding areas peace of mind.
While hardware and automotive stores sell anti-theft screws, this event is an opportunity for both conversation about preventing number plate theft and accessing the screws for free.
If number plates have been stolen, cancelling the registration and applying for a new one is the first step. It’s also important to update the details with the insurance company, roadside assistance provider and toll provider.
If the crime has been witnessed in real time, call Triple Zero for police attendance. If there is a delay in noticing, report the stolen plates to the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 as soon as possible.
Mooroolbark Police will be at Mooroolbark Train Station between 4pm and 7pm. To get yours, find them at their stall just outside the Myki barriers.
IN BRIEF
Vintage car theft
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a theft in Lilydale on 31 August.
It is believed the Gold Chevrolet Belair with personalised plates 57LOCO was taken between 7am and 7.30am.
Investigators have released an image of the vehicle in the hope that someone may have spotted it.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Lilydale Police station on (03) 9739 2300 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au
Road safety forum
The Victoria Police Yarra Ranges Road Safety Forum will be held next week as way to raise awareness about road trauma and safety for the eastern region.
With the Yarra Ranges marked as a high-risk area for road incidents, the Eastern Region Command intends to lead a discussion about the common causes of collisions, serious injury and fatalities over the last five years, as well as specific age groups, gender type of road users and locations.
“Police accept that we play an important part in mitigating trauma on the roads,” Yarra Glen Sergeant Roger Willems said.
“However, road safety is everyone’s responsibility and as such everyone has an important role in working with Victoria Police and key partners to provide a holistic approach.”
There will be time for questions from the community to open the discussion further, as well as allowing concerns to be raised with police to inform their response.
“Victoria Police, despite our proactive measures, is extremely concerned regarding the level of trauma we continue to see daily on our roads,” he said.
“This is a unique opportunity for the community to participate in discussions with senior members from Victoria Police and key road partners to raise questions and their concerns respectfully.
“If there’s something that the local people say is a real issue, then it’s the place to bring it up and discuss what can be done about it.”
The forum will be held at the Yarra Valley Racing located at Armstrong Grove, Yarra Glen from 7pm to 9pm on Monday 16 September. The booking is essential to attend the forum at eventbrite.com/e/yarra-ranges-road-safetyforum-tickets-966911467227
A Gold Chevrolet Belair with personalised plates 57LOCO was reported as stolen from Lilydale. (Supplied)
Mooroolbark Police officers will be set up at the station on 17 September handing out anti-theft screws. (Stewart Chambers: 331747)
The
Warburton.
The air ambulance landed in Warburton after a cyclist was hit by a car. (File)
Regs safeguard hunting
The Victorian Government has announced sensible new changes to recreational hunting to ensure the activity remains safe, sustainable and responsible.
On Monday 2 September, outdoor recreation minister Steve Dimopoulous announced the new Wildlife (Game) Regulations 2024 that will come into effect from 7 September.
“These new regulations will make recreational hunting in Victoria safer, more sustainable and responsible,” Mr Dimopoulous said.
“Victoria has some of the best game hunting opportunities in Australia, that will be continue with stronger compliance and better animal welfare outcomes.”
From the rugged High Country to the Gippsland plains, Victoria has some of the best and most exciting hunting opportunities in Australia.
In announcing these new regulations, the Labor Government reaffirms its support of game hunting as a legitimate recreational activity that contributes positively to the regional economies in Victoria.
The Labor Government has consulted extensively with peak hunting groups, animal welfare advocates and traditional owners to ensure that the right protections are in place for both the environment and the public.
The changes include important updates to
improve public safety, such as taking a commonsense approach to hunting start times for duck hunting seasons and further measures to help tackle illegal spotlighting of deer.
To support these new regulations, the Victorian Government is investing in better compliance with more officers in the field to make sure the rules are followed.
The government is also upholding its commitment to ban lead shot for quail hunting from 2025, while confirming that lead-based ammunition will continue to be permitted for deer hunting.
Other changes include improving animal welfare by requiring hunters to make all reasonable
efforts to immediately dispatch struck deer and allowing the use of handheld thermal imaging devices for hunting deer during the daytime. These reforms are supported by a $10.1 million investment over four years. This is in addition to $11.6 million announced in the Victorian Budget 2024/25 to bolster the compliance and enforcement of recreational hunting.
The new regulations also address the need for fairness and transparency in hunting license fees, ensuring all hunters continue to contribute to the sustainable management of Victoria’s wildlife while enjoying their time outdoors.
For more information about the changes visit djsir.vic.gov.au/game-hunting
Vasalia leads fight to support people injured at work
From page 1
“We would help you from the day you got injured, help you to put in the claim, provide supporting evidence. If the claim was rejected, we’d represent you at the Workplace Injury Commission,” she said.
A WorkSafe spokeswoman said the compensation body has a variety of programs to support each individual in accessing the support needed as an injured worker, especially those with long term injuries or complex needs.
“WorkSafe provided tailored support to more than 104,000 injured workers last financial year and improving outcomes and experiences of workers compensation is a core priority,” she said.
“No one chooses to suffer an injury or illness at work and WorkSafe is committed to ensuring the right supports are in place to care for those who are injured to give them the best possible chance of recovery.”
One of the major problems Vasalia identified, however, is the fact that injured workers are referred to with their claim number, not their name, something she said was dehumanising.
“Once you become an injured worker, you become a number, and none of your rights matter. It’s not about getting you back to work. It’s not about treating your injury or your illness. It’s about pushing you off the system.”
In Joanna’s case, because of her condition, she is more susceptible to severe illness and in 2022, she was admitted to hospital with pneumonia.
The fear of what would happen to her two young children made her hospital admission all the more scary.
“I said, ‘who’s going to look after my children? I needed someone and I was screaming ‘I have no support, I need someone to look after my two girls’,” Joanna said.
“I was crying on the phone to everybody, and at this stage I didn’t know IWST, and I was like ‘am I going to get my kids taken off me because of a workplace injury?’”
After connecting with Vasalia, Joanna came to realise she should have been provided childcare services under her work cover, as well as her admission fee of $500 being covered.
“The reason Jo didn’t get the support was because in an email to us, the case manager initially said she didn’t know about the Child Care Policy and the reimbursement for being in hospital,” Vasalia said.
Because of the trauma experienced by her two children, Joanna said she has been trying to get them access to therapy under her work cover since 2019 but still hasn’t been able to.
“They’ve seen a lot of things. I’ve been in the media a lot, so my kids are exposed to what is going on in my life. They’ve seen horrible things that have happened to me that they don’t need to see. They’re traumatised,” she said.
As a single mum, whose WorkSafe payment was calculated on her post-maternity leave part-time wage, Joanna receives around $550 a week.
Between food, bills, schooling costs and putting petrol in her car, Joanna said it doesn’t leave much left over for medical expenses, which is why WorkSafe exists.
But specific treatments, like clinical pilates, she is meant to be able to access to keep her lungs functioning at capacity, Joanna said she has had to cancel because the clinic wasn’t re-
ceiving the funds from WorkSafe to continue treatment.
“I’m scared to exercise by myself. I have to have someone with me. Part of my lung condition is that I have to exercise but I can’t even go for a walk by myself. I’m riddled with anxiety, and then I pass out. I don’t know if it’s my anxiety or my lungs.”
Joanna said what makes the process of getting her essential medical treatments approved and paid for under work cover even harder is the constant revolving door of case managers - in five years, she has had eight different case managers.
WorkSafe said it sets its agents’ performance measures and targets to deliver quality case management.
In the 2022-23 financial year annual report, WorkSafe set a service performance target of 73.1 per cent for the long term injured worker category, with all but one agent reaching or going slightly above this target.
While Joanna has attempted to go back to work for a few days a week, she said “I just couldn’t do it anymore, I got so sick”.
“I’d love to go back to work. It’s just not possible for me right now and I don’t think in the near future it will ever be because I get sick, I’m vulnerable, I’ve got a compromised immune system.”
With getting people back to work a key focus of the WorkSafe philosophy in either 13, 52 or
130 weeks, depending on the severity of injury, Vasalia said, in her opinion, a complex, longterm injured worker, like Joanna, feels pressure to return or remove themselves from the WorkSafe system.
The WorkSafe annual report showed that roughly 50 per cent of injured workers whose claims were accepted and were receiving weekly payments returned to work within 13 weeks, roughly 35 per cent returned at the 26 week mark, between 12 and 16 per cent at 52 weeks and around six per cent at 134 weeks.
WorkSafe confirmed that 26,315 workers were supported in their return to work, of which almost 75 per cent who had a physical injury and 42 per cent with a mental injury were back at work within six months.
And while Vasalia agreed that early intervention and getting back to work was a positive and important part of WorkSafe’s purpose, especially having seen the incredible outcomes that have resulted after injury, she said the same commitment and advocacy had to be given to complex injured worker cases.
Announced last year, Monash University School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine Professor Alex Collie, alongside a team of researchers, embarked on an Australian first research project called Workers’ Voice.
The Australian Research Council-funded project will use lived experience evidence to research where improvements in the country’s
compensation systems may lie.
Professor Collie said there was now strong evidence that Australia’s workers’ compensation systems were structured and operated in a way that could cause problems for injured workers.
“Many studies in Australia and internationally show that a lot of people find workers’ compensation stressful and complex, and that for some people this contributes to slower recovery and significant distress,” he said.
“These studies suggest that it is the way workers’ compensation schemes operate that can lead to problems. The sector has a history of treating injured workers as claims to be managed, rather than as vulnerable people in need of support.”
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) most recent data on work-related injury or illness from 2021-22 showed that 497,300 people were injured or became ill from work.
It also showed that 85 per cent of people were able to return to work, eight per cent changed jobs and seven per cent left or lost work because of their injury or illness.
WorkSafe Victoria said it was currently managing 2000 long-term injured worker cases who have been on the workers compensation scheme for more than 130 weeks. It said individual recovery plans, with a person centred approach had been established for each worker.
The Recovery and Return to Work Program, set up in 2020-21, identified people on the scheme who, because of their injury, would have a slow recovery or delayed return to work. It has since supported 21,000 individual workers, including a number who hadn’t worked in more than 10 years.
For those who need to make the transition back to work because they are no longer entitled to workers compensation, WorkSafe can provide psychosocial supports, occupational rehabilitation, training or connection to suitable employment opportunities.
As someone who has navigated the system for five years now, Joanna said she often receives calls or messages from other injured workers, especially those who have been diagnosed with silicosis but there was very little support from external agencies or groups.
Joanna McNeill and her two daughters Charlee, 6, and Matilda, 8. (Sigrid Petersen Photography)
Joanna said she has been trying to access therapy for her daughters since 2019 without luck.
NEWS Emergency comms failure
By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
Emergency services are grappling with a major issue, power outages are causing telecom systems to fail, preventing the public from reaching out for help when needed.
Kallista CFA member Chris Job has raised this alarming issue on several occasions with the media and the council.
“If the community wants to support us further, we need their backing in advocating for a solution. When the NBN goes down, our communication systems also fail, and no one can reach us,” he said.
“We’re then left without phones, unable to provide updates on emergency situations or respond to any emergency events.”
“We’re an emergency service. In a catastrophic event, we want the community to rely on us, but right now they can’t, and it hasn’t become a priority.”
Monbulk member Daniela De Martino said that telecommunications are essential, not a luxury.
“When a serious weather event occurs or during bushfire season, we all rely on the mobile network for emergency calls. Unfortunately, the companies have not ensured continuity of service during power outages,” Ms De Martino said.
“Following the February storms, I started a petition calling on telcos to ‘Power the Towers.’ I encourage people who want to see mobile telecommunications companies build resilience into their towers to sign it on my website.”
Ms De Martino also advises the community to contact Federal Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland and request that the government mandate uninterrupted power supply through legislation.
“The State Government has intervened to improve telecommunications resilience in the Dandenong Ranges. We’ve partnered with NBN
Co, the Commonwealth Government, and local councils to establish NBN Community Wi-Fi in Emerald, Kalorama, Monbulk, Olinda, and The
Soft plastics cannot be put in your recycling bin.
Put soft plastics in your general rubbish bin. They can’t be recycled, and if they are put in recycling bins they can jam machinery at sorting facilities and stop other items from being recycled.
Soft plastics are any bags and packaging that you can easily scrunch in your hand.
Find out more: www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/waste
Patch,” she said.
“I will be meeting with telecommunications companies in the coming months to discuss our community’s needs and concerns. The more signatures on my petition, the louder our voices will be.”
Despite the recurring telecom outages during storms in the Hills, infrastructure improvements remain lacking.
Vodafone, Telstra, and Optus were all contacted for a response.
An Optus spokesperson said severe weather events in Victoria and Tasmania have led to power outages at several mobile sites, causing disruptions to both mobile and NBN services for some customers.
“Our teams are working with the relevant authorities to restore services to impacted areas as soon as possible and as safely as we can,” the spokesperson said.
“Optus is committed to keeping our customers connected by providing the best possible coverage across our network.”
“Generators are being deployed to strategic locations across both states, with the first already in place and operating to maintain mobile site operation.”
Telstra Regional General Manager Jenny Gray reported significant progress in restoring services in Victoria after severe storms caused widespread power outages.
“Nearly all of our mobile sites are now back online, and we are progressively restoring remaining landline phone and internet services,” Ms Gray said.
“Our sites rely on mains power to operate but have backup energy supplies that helped extend coverage for several hours following the storms.”
“Our network sites use substantial power— one mobile base station consumes as much energy as 10 homes. Due to ongoing power outages, some sites gradually lost power.”
She added that the company’s technicians are working statewide to restore services as quickly as possible whenever it is safe to do so.
“We’re also investigating and innovating ways to enhance our networks’ resilience and reconnect customers more swiftly during disasters,” Ms Gray said.
“We appreciate everyone’s patience and urge everyone to stay safe.”
A TPG Telecom spokesperson, representing Vodafone, said that severe weather in Victoria caused power outages in several areas, leading to disruptions in some mobile services.
“While our networks are designed to be resilient, natural disasters can lead to power outages that affect communication networks. It’s crucial for people to have a plan to stay connected during these events,” the spokesperson said.
“Our sites have backup power systems that are activated in emergencies to keep sites operational until it is safe for our technical teams and power utilities to restore services.”
“Our teams are working with the relevant authorities to restore services as quickly as it is safe to do so. We have restored a significant number of mobile sites across the state, but ongoing power outages are still affecting a few sites.”
Mr Job said emergency responders cannot risk their safety or that of the community, and that backup power solutions are essential.
He said installing uninterruptible power supplies or backup generators for telecom infrastructure is crucial to maintaining communication lines during power outages.
He also added that emergency responders are ready to assist in any way they can to ensure this becomes a reality.
Kallista CFA members are calling for backup generators amid telecom disruptions. (Pexels)
Get prostate cancer tests
By Mikayla van Loon
For more than two decades prostate cancer has been Australia’s most commonly diagnosed cancer, a figure that continues to rise and now equates to 72 men per day receiving the news.
Ringwood Prostate Cancer Support Group leader Andrew Blackwell said with September being awareness month, the message of early detection is the most important.
“Know where your support group is if you want to join. Get a test. Go and see a urologist, take advice,” he said.
“Don’t sit back and think ‘that’s not going to happen to me’. Be aware of your family history, of your own health, be aware of what’s going on inside you and take care of your mental health.”
As the only support group for the outer eastern suburbs, Mr Blackwell said people travel from all over the Yarra Ranges to find connection and understanding with others who have either received a diagnosis, have recovered from prostate cancer or lost a loved one to the prevalent male illness.
This year alone will see approximately 27,000 men diagnosed with prostate cancer, with nearly 4000 men estimated to die from the cancer in 2024, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
While the five-year relative survival rate from 1982 to 2018 improved from 58 per cent to 95.8 per cent, Mr Blackwell said the earlier men are tested the better the outcome is for survival.
Mr Blackwell himself has just received a positive prostate cancer diagnosis after years of monitoring his prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels.
“I am currently on active surveillance but I have just formally been diagnosed with prostate cancer. I had to have a biopsy last week and unfortunately it’s been confirmed. I have to go back to my urologist and we’ll be talking about options,” he said.
“I was originally diagnosed in 2019 and they said ‘there is definitely something there’, they just couldn’t actually definitively say, so it was a wait and see moment. It’s now at the point where cancer cells are present.
“It’s not unexpected. I’ve spent 30 years in the health system, so I basically know what to expect. My older brother has prostate cancer. My dad and three uncles are survivors. My 37-year-old son is already experiencing rising PSAs.”
Before his father was diagnosed, Mr Blackwell said prostate cancer “wasn’t even on my radar” but the results forced him to take the preventative steps of monitoring the health of his prostate in his early 40s by getting a PSA blood test.
“Unless you know your family history you might not know that you could have it. And if you start getting signs and symptoms, it could be too late,” he said.
“It’s one of those cancers where it sits there, it grows and may not cause issues but once you start getting pain, especially in the abdomen and the groin, the treatments have just been made 100 times harder.”
With the recommended age for PSA testing being 50-years-old for men without a family history of prostate cancer and 40-years-old for those with an immediate link to the cancer, Mr Blackwell said this should be used as a guide but the earlier the better.
This is especially true because of the genetic similarities between breast cancer and prostate cancer, attributed to the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes present in both men and women.
Mr Blackwell said, as an example, should a father have prostate cancer it increases the likelihood of a son also developing the cancer by seven times, while a daughter is four times more likely
to have a diagnosis of breast cancer.
From the maternal side, a daughter is 10 times more likely to develop breast cancer if the mother also has it, while a son is four times more likely to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis.
Prostate cancer diagnosis has surpassed breast cancer diagnosis in Australia, something the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) cited as a wakeup call.
“The toll prostate cancer takes on the lives of everyday Australians is tremendous,” PCFA chief executive officer Anne Savage said.
“Beyond the high burden of lives lost and the cruel side effects of treatment, prostate cancer costs more than $1.35 billion to treat every year and accounts for more hospitalisations than any other form of cancer.
“We must do more to support early detection and timely treatment with the very latest medicines.”
Mr Blackwell said breaking down the stigma that prostate cancer is “an old man’s disease” was also an essential part of the puzzle.
“That thinking needs to change. Anyone can get it, it’s like any other cancer. It’s just the older we get, the risks increase,” he said.
For those seeking support in the outer east, Mr Blackwell said the Ringwood Prostate Cancer Support Group always welcomes new members.
The group meets at the Maroondah Federation Estate, Room 5, 32 Greenwood Avenue Ringwood on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 7pm.
This month, on 24 September, hear from a Monash University PhD researcher currently looking at radiotherapy for prostate cancer.
More can be found at pcfa.org.au/support/ find-a-support-group/ringwood-pcsg/
Victoria’s healthcare discussion: are there answers?
By Gabriella Vukman
The discussion surrounding Victoria’s Healthcare sector has reached monumental levels and the topic of funding is at its very centre.
Fuelling the fire, the Victorian Government’s recent contribution of $1.5 billion to the state’s healthcare sector has prompted an array of mixed discussion.
From concerns for the ongoing viability and function of Victoria’s healthcare system to questions surrounding the state’s level of debt, more information about how and where this funding will be allocated is yet to surface.
Eildon MP and Liberal parliamentarian Cindy McLeish said, “‘where is this money going?’ and ‘where is it coming from?’ are the two most asked questions about the government’s announcement to inject $1.5 billion injection into its failing healthcare system.”
“Despite the backflip of hospital amalgamations for the time being, the Government has been silent on the details around this investment.
“This figure is similar to that announced by the Labor Government in 2022 to rebuild the Maroondah hospital at the existing site which seems to be at a bit of a standstill at the moment.”
Ms McLeish raised concerns about the amount of debt owed by the state of Victoria.
“The $1.5 billion comes outside the Victorian budget so it means services elsewhere will be cut or the Government will borrow further and extend our debt out to $190 billion – already more than NSW, Qld and Tasmania combined,” she said.
“On top of properly funding our health system, our roads are at a crisis point, we have a housing crisis, our parks are being stripped of funding so basic repairs aren’t being made. We need to curtail wastage and budget blowouts and fund what matters to peoples lives.
“Collectively, health services across the state are already carrying $1.5billion of debt, and on top of that it is estimated that the recently agreed EBA for nurses and midwives will cost around $1billion. The government needs to give us details, not hope that people will be placated by an announcement.”
Eastern Health, the local public health service with hospitals dotted around the Yarra Ranges and Knox from Healesville to Ferntree Gully, was contacted by the Star Mail for further information regarding the needs of Victoria’s Healthcare system and the distribution of the $1.5 billion worth of funding.
The following statement attributed to an Eastern Health spokesperson was issued: “Eastern Health welcomes the additional funding in the Victorian health system, and we will know more about our specific situation once budgets
are finalised in the coming weeks.”
First contacted on 15 August, despite requests for further information, Eastern Health provided no further comments as of Friday 30 August just over two weeks later.
A spokesperson from the Victorian Treasurer’s office said, “Victoria’s health system is one of the best in the world, and our reforms will keep us on track to deliver even better patient care through a reformed health system that is better integrated and connected, at the same time protecting the local services we know Victorians trust and rely on.”
“We will always support our hospitals – because that’s what Labor does,” they said.
“As a Government, we’ve made record investment in our hospitals. That includes recruiting a record number of doctors and nurses, record funding for our hospitals and health infrastructure – and of course, our record pay deal for Victorian nurses and we’re continuing to build on that record.”
The statements provided by the Victorian Treasurer’s Office confirmed that the Victorian budget strategy remains on track.
“We remain on track with our fiscal strategy. The increased investment in our hospitals will be accounted for through the usual reporting methods, including the Budget Update later this year,” the spokesperson said.
“The Allan Labor Government will deliver a better, more connected health system – ensuring patients can get the care they need, in their own communities and will invest a further $1.5 billion to support our hospitals deliver worldclass care, building on the more than $8.8 billion we invested in the Budget.
“This additional investment delivers the funding hospitals told us they needed to meet record demand, while also enabling Victoria to continue delivering a record number of elective surgeries and implement electronic Medical Record (eMR).”
The spokesperson affirmed that the Department of Health would be finalising its new budgets by the end of August.
“With this further investment, the Department of Health will now work with health services to finalise their budgets by the end of [last] month.”
The spokesperson said, “The Labor Government has also accepted in full or accepted in principle 26 of 27 recommendations proposed by the Expert Advisory Committee, as part of its Health Services Plan.”
“The Labor Government will deliver a number of key reforms in response to these recommendations. It will not, however, accept the recommendation to forcibly amalgamate, merge, or consolidate any of Victoria’s health services. All health services will retain individual boards.”
Ringwood Prostate Cancer Support Group leader Andrew Blackwell encourages all men to think about their prostate health and getting tested this awareness month. (Mikayla van Loon: 429919)
EACH 50 years’ milestone
By Dongyun Kwon
A special purple bus landed in Ringwood East on Tuesday 3 September after passing through many touchpoints across Australia.
The 50 Years of EACH Bus hit the road all the way from Ipswich, Queensland, stopped at EACH sites including Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Campbelltown and Goulburn in New South Wales, then Ferntree Gully, Narre Warren and Boronia, and finally arrived in Ringwood East to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
The bus connected and celebrated the people and places that have helped EACH achieve this significant milestone as a community-based health and support services provider.
EACH chief executive officer Natalie Sullivan said it was an incredibly proud moment for EACH.
“We want to share our pride in our past and our excitement about our future with everyone who has been part of our journey – communities, customers, government funders and of course our amazing team members, past and present,” she said.
“Please join us to hear stories about the impact we’ve had on the lives of people and their communities, and our organisation’s commitment to building a future where everyone has the power to live well.”
EACH has come a long way since its first site was opened as the Maroondah Social Health Centre at Patterson Street, Ringwood East by Prime Minister Gough Whitlam in 1974.
It now employs 1500 staff supported by 200 volunteers, delivering more than 150 health and support services to 60,000 vulnerable and disadvantaged Australians annually across nearly 60 sites within Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory.
As part of the celebration, a message stick was passed along at each stop of the journey.
EACH Aboriginal health promotion officer and cultural coordinator Vanessa Murdoch said the message stick is a tool that is traditionally
used by Aboriginal people to communicate messages to neighbouring Aboriginal nations and clan groups.
“It is made from wood and can be varied in length, as well as in patterns and designs. Although styles vary, they are usually oblong lengths of wood with motifs engraved on all sides,” she said.
“The markings on message sticks can mean different things and can vary from simple notches to intricate patterns.
“Marks were unique or distinctive to the carrier’s people so that when other groups looked at the message stick, they would know the relationship of the carrier to their group.”
The bus arrived in Ringwood East around 10am and stayed there for about an hour.
EACH program director primary care Lauren Barker said the site at Patterson Street is now one of the key sites where EACH’s primary care services are provided, covering all different health issues from child well being, sexual health to ref-
ugee and Aboriginal health alongside Burwood Highway, Warrandyte Road and Francis Crescent.
“It is one of the largest and busiest sites at EACH,” she said.
“We have around 150 personnel who work from Patterson Street and have more than 150 customers coming through the door each day.”
After the celebration, the 50 Years of EACH Bus headed off from Patterson Street to EACH’s head office in Ringwood, the last destination.
Inspiro bringing attention to overdose awareness
By Mikayla van Loon
Every year on 31 August health, support and outreach services raise awareness about overdose, a somewhat silent killer of Australians every day.
Bringing that awareness to the local community, Inspiro, alongside Access Health and Community, joined Holy Fools for a Street Angels lunch on Wednesday 28 August to share the message of ‘together we can’.
According to the Penington Institute, the publisher of Australia’s Annual Overdose Report and organiser of International Overdose Awareness Day, 2356 drug-induced deaths were recorded in 2022 - 80 per cent of those deaths were unintentional.
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s (ADF) analysis of the report found the number of deaths had increased by 79 people since 2021, with the total deaths equating to six fatalities per day.
The report also indicated that with the growth of Australia’s population by 33 per cent from 2002 to 2022, unintentional drug-related deaths grew by a staggering 108 per cent.
With opioids contributing to the majority of unintentional deaths, ADF chief executive officer Dr Erin Lalor AM said action and awareness are integral as the threat of dangerous synthetic opioids looms.
“Concerningly, synthetic opioids are being detected increasingly across Australia, meaning anyone taking illicit or unregulated drugs could be at risk of harm,” Dr Lalor said.
“Synthetic opioids like nitazenes can be incredibly potent and can produce life-threatening effects very quickly – we’ve already witnessed the devastating impacts these drugs can have, including overdose and death.
“We call on governments to act now to stop future harms, including better access to the life-saving opioid overdose reversal drug, naloxone, as well as increased public drug checking services and supervised injecting facilities.”
That’s why the confidential and non-judgemental services Inspiro provides to the Yarra Ranges community, both through the alcohol and other drugs (AoD) counselling services and the needle and syringe program (NSP), go a long way in reducing harm.
The NSP, first introduced in 1987 in Victoria, aims to minimise the spread of blood-borne viruses such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B and C. Inspiro offers free equipment such as needles, syringes, ster-
ile swabs, and contraception to anyone who needs them at both its Lilydale and Belgrave sites. After hours NSP access is provided by healthAbility’s Community Outreach Program Eastern Region (CHOPER), which can also provides training for the use of naloxone.
EACH’s services in Ringwood and Ferntree Gully are approved naloxone providers.
“We urge people taking any kind of illicit substance to be on high alert and take harm reduction precautions, including starting with
a low dose, avoiding using alone, and having naloxone on hand,” Dr Lalor said.
“Be aware of the signs of an opioid overdose which include slow or shallow breathing, bluish or greyish lips and complexion, and reduced consciousness. If you’re unsure, call triple zero immediately – ambulances are not required to involve the police.”
For support or advice, visit adf.org.au or call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015 .
The 50 Years of EACH Bus connected and celebrated the people and places that have helped EACH achieve this significant milestone as a communitybased health and support services provider. (EACH)
Inspiro and Access Health and Community staff, who work in the alcohol and drugs counselling and support services, were keen to spread overdose awareness. (Mikayla van Loon: 430219)
Plant-out for great cause
By Tanya Steele
Local organisational leaders got their hands dirty for a cause in Yellingbo this week, joining a conservation group and school students to plant out the habitat for one of Victoria’s beloved faunal emblems - the helmeted honeyeater.
On Thursday 5 September the Friends of the Helmeted Honeyeater Inc (FoHH) held its inaugural ‘Great CEO Plantout’, encouraging business and community leaders to play a part in saving the critically endangered state bird emblem.
The group planted 1200 plants in the Burrungma Biik - which are the misty lands in Woiwurrung of the Yellingbo Nature Conservation Area and home to the threatened bird population.
They celebrated over morning tea afterwards President Virginia Wallace said The Friends of the Helmeted Honeyeater Inc. is the only volunteerled group committed to saving the State Bird emblem from extinction.
“Times are tough for Victorians right now with the cost of living crisis, but the Helmeted Honeyeater is also experiencing its own cost of living crisis- homelessness or lack of habitat is a huge problem for our sweet bird with a big personality. And with only 250 left in the wild, their need for more habitat is critical to their survival,” she said.
Ms Wallace said they engaged with CEOs and businesses across Victoria to see if they could help them plant more habitat and raise funds so they can keep saving their favourite bird.
“We’ve written to over 100 Victorian companies and locally based businesses to ask them to support us in saving the Helmeted Honeyeater by increasing habitat,” she said.
“Let’s see our CEOs out of the office getting dirt under their fingernails as we improve the habitat for many of our unique native birds and animals.”
The plant out was originally supposed to be held on Wednesday with more businesses pledged to be involved but was pushed to Thursday due to weather conditions.
Students from Caulfield Grammar, Executive Manager at Melbourne Water Chris Brace, Head of Operations from Balgownie Estate Grant Flack, Australia Post Safety Systems and Governance Specialist Andrea Summits and Healesville Sanctuary Director Ross Williamson from Zoos Victoria joined volunteers from the FoHH group to plant on the day.
Mr Williamson said the weather on Thursday was a lot kinder.
“The team did a great job in planting 1,200 trees for the Helmeted Honeyeaters – there was a great bunch,” he said.
The small native plants are quite small and the group had aimed to plant over 1000 plants to make a real difference to the bird species and got well over that into the ground in short order.
Mr WIlliamson said when planting If the ground is moist, then it’s as simple as digging a
Welcome to my September 2024 fruit fly update. This season, I can help you to prepare your garden to protect your fruit from the damage that fruit fly causes.
The Queensland Fruit fly (QFF) is increasing in pressure in the Yarra Valley. Last season we detected 87 QFF in the Yarra Valley, mainly in Lilydale, Silvan Wandin, Hoddles Creek and Gruyere areas. It’s more than we anticipated, and many more compared to only 3 QFF detected back in 2018. We can’t say we’re fruit fly free anymore, as much as I would have liked to have prevented this pest establishing here. We are now focused on minimising the QFF population to stop as much of the damage as possible and prevent the spread.
small hole, dropping the seedling in, and firming the soil around them.
“As long as the roots are covered, it will take off. Pretty simple.,” he said.
Mr Williamson said he loved being involved.
“You’re doing something that has a longterm benefit for a critically endangered species. You can’t help but feel good about what you’ve achieved,” he said.
FoHH formed in May 1989 when the population of the Helmeted Honeyeaters reached a critically low level of 50 birds.
Mr Williamson said the key threat to Helmeted Honeyeaters is the lack of suitable habitat.
“These trees will turn an area of ex-pasture into good habitat, and it could be suitable for Helmeted Honeyeaters in as little as four years,” he said.
General Manager of Service Futures Melbourne Water Chris Brace Executive said it was terrific to be involved in the planting day.
“Melbourne Water is proud to be supporting a range of community projects through the Yarra4Life program to restore and protect habitat for the Helmeted Honeyeater across greater Melbourne,” he said.
“We remain committed to working together with the community to safeguard and enhance the precious habitat of one of our state’s emblems.”
After a productive day of planting, Ms Wallace said that FoHH would like to thank Australia Post’s People of Post program that provided them with the seed funding to kick start the plantout.
In May this year, Australia Post awarded grants to more than 150 grassroots community and notfor-profit groups across Australia, with each receiving up to $2,000 in funding through its annual People of Post grants.
Australia Post General Manager Community and Stakeholder Engagement, Nicky Tracey, said the seventh year of the program would once again help local organisations continue to make a positive impact on communities across the nation.
“At the heart of this initiative is Australia Post team members, who witness first-hand the incredible work community groups do every day across Australia. Our People of Post grants give them the chance to give back,” she said.
“We would also like to thank Pete Cromer for letting us use his Helmeted Honeyeater artwork,” Ms Wallace said.
Mr Williamson said the FoHH are a sensational group of volunteers and have been critical in saving this species from extinction.
“If you can’t plant a tree, help them to plant one on your behalf,” he said.
TheeventwhichwasafirstfortheFoHHmarks another vital step in the road to recovery for the critically endangered Helmeted Honeyeater and people can still make a donation at: www.givenow.com.au/greatceoplantout
The QFF Yarra Valley team have been busy holding workshops, setting up fresh QFF traps and investigating what impact the early start to Spring last month will have on overwintering flies. I think we may see some early catches in traps this season. I say this because we had a high number of QFF detections going into last Winter. It means there’s more chance some QFF will survive the cold period and threaten fruit in the season coming.
September
“In your garden….”
Plan your garden so you can protect the ripening fruit & vegetables with netting later in Summer.
Set up QFF traps for early detection, and check them weekly.
Cut back or remove large fruit trees that are impossible to harvest or net.
Pick your lemons, oranges, mandarins and cumquats.
The CEO plant out saw the community and a bevy of executives come together for a cause. (Tanya Steele 430095)
NEWS Katherine’s ready to trek
The third annual Cowey Selman Kokoda Award was once again granted to an eager young person ready to take on the challenge of Papua New Guineas’ Kokoda Trail.
Katherine Hobson was awarded as this year’s recipient at a packed Lilydale RSL event in late August.
Inspired by her grandmother who served in World War II, Katherine said in her speech that it would be her she’d be thinking of as she treks the famous Trail, most likely next year.
Not only was she presented with the award and opportunity, Katherine was able to hear from last year’s recipient Zeph Kunst who ventured to the island nation in April.
“This is the best thing I have done in my life to date, I am truly appreciative of the opportunity and grateful for this scholarship,” he said.
Making the journey even more special, Zeph’s mum Karelle also departed for Papua New Guinea to trek alongside her son.
“I was also thrilled I got to go as well, to see what Zeph got to experience. I would have had no idea how amazing it was and the history lessons each day were incredible, I also felt it was a life saving experience we are so grateful,” she said.
Named after two local veterans, Jim Cowey and Geoff Selman, who served in the 39th Battalion in World War II, stopping the Japanese from reaching Port Moresby with the ultimate aim to enter Australia, the award aims to not only give students a trip of a lifetime but to encourage their learning and research of the Kokoda Campaign.
When the scholarship first launched, program chair Greg Green said the history and effort of Australia’s troops should be the basis of the application but a desire to understand the culture of our close neighbours was also essential.
“Enjoy your research. Just picture yourself in the position of these 17 and 18 year old kids walking across there to face the Japanese and see whether you think you could do it,” he told Star Mail in 2021.
Since then, the interest and applications for the scholarship have grown and so too does the community support.
There on the day of the presentation was Federal MP Aaron Violi, Mayor Sophie Todorov, two former mayors Maria McCarthy and Ray Yates, members of the Cowey and Selman families, military historian Anthony McAleer, RSL representatives from Lilydale, Mt Evelyn, Yarra Glen and Monbulk, also Getaway Travel, sponsors Wan-
Award proves David Brickle is best in the painting biz
Clean Lines Painting and Decorating, based in Montrose, has taken top gong in the painter category of the 2024 Australian Trades Small Business Champion Awards – a major recognition awards program dedicated to spotlighting outstanding trades-based small business operators.
Announced winner of the prestigious accolade at the Awards’ glittering National Presentation Evening Gala held at Sydney’s The Star on Friday 23 August 2024, David Brickell, owner and head painter at Clean Lines Painting and Decorating, received a customised trophy, certificate and invaluable kudos as a nationally recognised industry leader.
The ‘Logies of Australia’s trade sector’, the red-carpet event was hosted by Nine News’ Peter Overton and attended by more than 1000 small businesspeople.
This year marks the second consecutive year of the Australian Trades Small Business Champion Awards, created to celebrate and inspire the most innovative, dynamic, and topperforming tradies spanning all capital cities as well as rural, regional and suburban towns.
Free to enter, the Awards attracted entrants across more than 50 trade categories in retail, services and manufacturing industries.
Clean Lines Painting and Decorating scored the highest result in the painter category, comprehensively judged by an independent expert panel that considered various aspects of small business operations – including each entrant’s strategies, growth plans, financial performance, eco-friendliness, innovation, customer service quality and community support – to name but
some of the judging criteria.
“Being selected as a champion of this major event from a nationwide entrant pool speaks volumes of the tenacity and leadership at Clean Lines Painting and Decorating,” awards founder and managing director of Precedent Productions, which coordinates the Australian Trades Small Business Champion Awards, Steve Loe said.
“Especially relevant this year as we continue to navigate through unprecedented challenges and transformative opportunities for so many tradies, this program pertinently pays tribute to the vital role of small businesses in the trade sector as the backbone of the nation’s construction industry, and a significant contributor to Australia’s overall social and economic prosperity.
“The vast majority of Australian small business owners are trades-based and they provide employment to millions. A career in trades typically means early starts, long days, and exhausting labour; and for owners, this is in addition to all the pressures that come with running a small business. It can be a taxing career and those who perform to a high standard – including Clean Lines Painting and Decorating – deserve to be acknowledged,” Mr Loe said.
Glass OnTime from Ringwood took home, for the second time, the award in the glazier category.
The nation’s best commercial cleaning small business went to Detail Capital Cleaning Services of Croydon South.
Also based at Croydon South, DSI Panels won the highly competitive automotive smash repairs category.
The winning group was proud and excited at the Australian Trades Small Business Awards. (Supplied)
Clean Lines Painting and Decorating’s David Brickell after receiving the award. (Supplied)
din/Seville Community Bendigo Bank, Monbulk Bowling Club, Healesville and Upper Yarra RSLs, Passchendale Cafe, Mt Evelyn Community Bank
and Chirnside Park Country Club. If there are any year 10 students interested in being part of this scholarship please contact Bill
Dobson; president@lilydalersl.com.au Students apply in Year 10 and travel during Year 11.
Casey MP Aaron Violi, former recipient Zeph Kunst, the newly awarded Katherine Hobson and Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson. (Supplied)
Zeph handed over the reins to Katherine at the award ceremony in late August.
Katherine will embark on her trip next year with the story and service of her grandmother in mind.
Grant delay concerns MP
By Dongyun Kwon
Federal Casey MP Aaron Violi called out the government in the House of Representatives on 19 August, highlighting their lengthy delays that have left Seville Cricket Club and other local clubs unable to plan for the future.
In August 2023, the Federal Government announced the Play Our Way program with a $200 million investment to improve sporting facilities and equipment specifically for women and girls.
The Play Our Way program is to be available for all sports but it is anticipated soccer, as the highest participation sport in Australia, will need significant resourcing in the wake of the greatest Women’s World Cup ever.
Mr Violi criticised the Federal Government for the delay of the Play our Way grant winners announcement and said these delays again show that this grant program was just a more rushed policy on the run from Labor as they sought to follow the lead of the Coalition.
“After the Matildas’ success last year, the Coalition committed $250 million over four years to improve female participation in sport through community sporting infrastructure upgrades,” he said.
“Days later, the Albanese Government followed our lead and announced a lesser $200 million ‘Play our Way’ program, however, August has come around again, and Labor still has not announced grant winners under their program.
“There are sporting clubs in our community eagerly awaiting the results of their grant application, who are unable to make plans for the future without answers from the government.”
Where to pick up your FREE Star Mail
CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar3 Meadowgate Drive
CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket239-241 Maroondah Highway
CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket239-241 Maroondah Highway
CHIRNSIDE PARK Caltex Safeway239-241 Maroondah Highway
CHIRNSIDE PARK EG Fuelco Service StationChirnside Park Shopping Cr Little
Chipping Drive, 241 Maroondah Highway
CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway
CHIRNSIDE PARK Chirnside Park Country Club 68 Kingswood Drive
CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar158 Nangathan Way
CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar11 The Mall
KILSYTH Woolworths SupermarketChuringa SC, Russo Place
MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road
MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road
MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road
MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street
MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent
The Play Our Way is an opportunity for local governments, community organisations, the notfor-profit sector and sporting organisations to seek funding for localised solutions and improvements.
Mr Violi said he would continue to advocate for female sports facilities.
“Every person, every young man and every young girl and woman, should be able to go to their club and participate on an equal playing field, and we know facilities make a big difference to that,” he said.
The grant applications for the Play Our Way program closed on 29 April.
The federal Department of Health and Aged Care opposed Mr Violi’s claim of the grant winner announcement being delayed.
The spokesperson said the timing for grant decisions is a product of the size, scale and complexity of the program, as well as the normal Australian Government processes related to probity and assessment.
“In relation to Expressions of Interest for Stream 1: Facilities, all applications have been assessed and outcomes advised. For those assessed as meeting the requirements for the next phase, a full application for funding has been requested and these applications are due by 23 September,” they said.
“Once the final competitive assessments are conducted, the Department will advise applicants and publish outcomes.
“For Stream 2: Participation & Equipment, final decisions are near completion and applicants for this stream will be notified once resolved.”
MOUNT EVELYN Red Robyn Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road
MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent
MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road
MOUNT EVELYN Bendigo Bank 2/35-39 Wray Cres
MONTROSE IGA Supermarket916 Mt Dandenong Road
MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket15 Brice Avenue
MOOROOLBARK Bendigo BankUnit 19/66 - 74 Brice Ave
MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar38 Bellara Dive
MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart108 Hayrick Lane
MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark103 Cardigan Road
MOOROOLBARK Coles Express2 Cambridge Road
MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real EstateBrice Avenue
MOOROOLBARK L J HookerBrice Avenue
MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road
MOOROOLBARK Mc Donalds RestaurantManchester Road
MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road
MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale138 York Road
WANDIN NORTH Wandin Newsagency Shop 2 /18 Union Road
Casey MP Aaron Violi is worried about the delay of Play Our Way program delivery as it has left the local sporting clubs unable to plan for the future. (File: 396247)
Are you fire season ready?
Victoria could be facing an earlier start to the fire season this year and we’re asking those living in high-risk areas to take action to prepare their family and property.
The Spring Seasonal Outlook released last week predicts an increased risk of fire to the southwest, west and northwestern parts of Victoria due to a drier than average first half of the year.
Without significant rainfall it is likely to lead to an above average fire risk and an earlier start to the fire season during the spring period.
There is an increased level of fuel hazard due to an accumulation in the amount of dead plant material resulting from reduced rainfall in the areas identified as increased risk of fire.
Grassland curing in these areas are likely to advance earlier than normal in the absence of significant rainfall.
The fire risk across the rest of Victoria is predicted to be normal, noting there is a chance the fire season may also begin earlier than normal in areas dominated by drier forests, woodlands and heathlands – inland and coastal.
CFA is ready to protect our communities, as we do every year and has been working with our Victorian emergency service partners throughout the cooler months to prepare for fire season and this year is no exception.
Our crews urge the community to understand that fire safety is a shared responsibility between fire services and the community.
We’re asking all Victorians in high-risk areas to take simple actions to prepare their family and property as the weather begins to warm.
If you live near areas with bush, forest, long grass or coastal scrub, these actions and decisions may well save your life and property in the event of a bushfire.
Find some time to sit down with your family or household and make a Bushfire Survival Plan, and if you already have one, it’s a great time to review it.
It’s also the perfect time to tidy up your property, this can include clearing your gutters, pruning branches away from your roof or walls, keeping grass shorter than 10cm and removing leaves and twigs from around your property.
Landowners should also consider private
burn offs to remove green waste ahead of Fire Danger Period (FDP) declarations.
All burn-offs must be registered, which can be done online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au.
Stay informed by downloading the VicEmergency app to stay across incidents and fire danger ratings in your area.
I urge all Victorians to visit the CFA website to learn more about how they can prepare themselves ahead of this bushfire season at www.cfa. vic.gov.au/prepare.
Stay safe,
JasonHeffernan CFAChiefOfficer
Devilish delight at Healesville Sanctuary joey births
A major milestone for the Tasmanian Devil breeding program at Healesville Sanctuary with more than 200 joeys born at the bushland haven.
A team of dedicated conservationists have been playing matchmaker for sixteen years, as a key part of the insurance population for the endangered species, and this breeding season has seen nine youngsters enter the world.
Healesville Sanctuary carnivores and reptiles coordinator Grace McKenzie said they will play an important role in fighting extinction.
“These joeys will either actively participate in the breeding program here or at another zoo when they are old enough,” Ms McKenzie said.
They are also ambassadors for the program so people can learn more about the species and protect them into the future.
“Our team has been very excited about the three new Tasmanian Devil litters. We work hard each year to ensure we’re making the right genetic choices and to follow all insurance program recommendations, as well as maintaining a healthy population. So, it feels great. We are excited to share this milestone!” Ms McKenzie said.
“We will continue to work with the wider recovery program to do what is needed for Tasmanian Devil conservation. Tasmanian Devils live for five to seven years so we must maintain the insurance population every year.”
Zoos Victoria is a partner of the Save the Tasmanian Devil Program (STDP).
Healesville Sanctuary manages a breeding population of Tasmanian Devils as part of a long-term insurance program to ensure fitness, health and genetic diversity are maintained into the future.
The Sanctuary’s program started in 2008.
La Trobe University and Zoos Victoria are collaborating on a conservation detection dog study to identify when female Tasmanian Devils are ready for mating, helping to support future successful pairings and pregnancies without human intervention.
Excitingly, in July this year, four Tasmanian Devils from Healesville Sanctuary were also re-
leased to disease-free Maria Island off the east coast of Tasmania.
This release is a joint initiative of the STDP and Zoo and Aquarium Association to increase the genetic diversity of the Maria Island population.
Tasmanian Devils are the world’s largest living carnivorous marsupial.
They are classified as endangered with a decreasing population according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
Populations have declined by 80 per cent in the last 20 years.
The main threat to the survival of this species is a disease known as Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD) which develops rapidly and is fatal.
Healesville Sanctuary visitors can see one of the new Tasmanian Devil families at Devil’s Playground on the Woodlands Track. The best time of day to spot the joeys is in the late afternoon as they are a mostly nocturnal species.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan has put a call out to Victorians about preparing for fire season. (Supplied)
Tasmanian Devil. (Zoos Victoria)
Cat containment is safest
At Animal Aid, we believe that keeping cats safely contained is one of the most effective ways to ensure their health and well-being.
Outdoor cats face numerous risks, from traffic accidents to predators and disease, and containment can help protect both them and local wildlife.
To give cats the best of both worlds, many cat owners, including myself, have taken steps to create secure outdoor spaces.
Installing cat enclosures or catios allows cats to safely enjoy the outdoors without the hazards associated with free roaming.
Whether it’s a simple fenced area or a more
Animal
Mark Menze Animal Aid CEO
as climbing shelves, tunnels, and interactive toys can keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated.
indoor life, we’ll be holding an upcoming session where we’ll share tips on creating the perfect environment for your cat.
RU OK? Day shows kind words can make a difference aid
This year’s R U OK? Day is on Thursday 14 September.
The slogan “R U OK?” stands for “Are you okay?” and advocates for people to have conversations with others.
It addresses social isolation and promotes community cohesiveness.
A non-profit organisation, R U OK? was founded by advertiser Gavin Larkin in 2009, after losing his father to suicide.
When Larkin experienced depression and became concerned about his own mental health, he decided to create a national day of action for suicide prevention.
In 2011, Larkin told the ABC TV’s Australian Story that “the message of R U OK? is [to] stop a little problem from turning into a big one, because that’s your best chance of avoiding the ultimate disaster”.
Sadly, Larkin later died of cancer at the age of 42. He said of his life: “There’s a tonne of things I’m not proud of in my life. And I’m really glad that, before it was too late, I really got my act together and learned some lessons about what was important.”
R U OK? Day is all about communication, which can positively impact on people’s mental state.
The campaign’s message is “a conversation can change a life”. In Larkin’s words: “Getting connected and staying connected is the best thing anyone can do for themselves and for those who may be at risk.”
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, in 2020, 3139 deaths were due to suicide, including 2384 males and 755 females.
In 2021, 3144 deaths were due to suicide, including 2358 males and 786 females.
These numbers indicate that in Australia, deaths from suicide occur among males at a rate three times greater than that for females (20.1 deaths versus 6.3 deaths per 100000 people).
elaborate structure, these enclosures offer a safe solution for cats to explore outside. Indoors, providing enriching activities such
PASSION FOR PROSE
WITH CHRISTINE SUN
Worse, not only are those living in rural and regional areas at a higher risk of committing suicide, but suicide rates among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are among the highest in the world.
Specifically, data from the Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention show that 48 per cent of all suicides in 2000 were by people aged 35-64, with an additional 13 per cent by those aged 65 and more.
Particularly alarming is the estimation that suicide rates for children under the age of 15 has increased by 92 per cent between the 60s and the 90s.
If you feel that someone you know or care about is not acting like they normally would, then asking “Are you okay?” is a good start.
A more important step is to actively listen to that person and engage with what they are going through.
The crucial part of the process is to continue checking in with that person, helping them to feel supported and connected in a meaningful way.
Let us remember these words from American author Leo Buscaglia: “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.”
Regularly changing their environment and offering new challenges can help prevent boredom and stress.
It’s also important to check local cat containment laws, which are designed to protect both pets and wildlife.
By embracing these solutions, cat owners can create a safe and engaging space for their pets, ensuring they lead happy and fulfilling lives.
For those looking for more advice on cat containment, enclosures, and transitioning cats to
Tune in on Wednesday 18 September at 7.30 to hear from our two expert speakers: Suellen Marshall, Coldstream cattery manager with 10 years of experience working with cats, including seven years dedicated to animal welfare, and Dylan Luff, Animal Aid’s animal behaviourist with a passion for creating harmony between you and your feline friend.
Follow us on Facebook for more information and to register!
• facebook.com/VictorianAnimalAid/
Full circle to Beetlejuice
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
Starring Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder and Jenna Ortega
Rated M 3.75/5
It’s funny how Michael Keaton’s career has come full-circle.
Decades after playing Beetlejuice and Batman, Keaton starred in Birdman, a semiautobiographical film about a frustrated actor struggling under the shadow of a past superhero role, then returned as Batman in The Flash, and is now back in Beetlejuice.
Beetlejuice and just as much of a morbidly fun, sleazy tornado of chaos in this very entertaining sequel.
A funeral reunites spiritual medium Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) with her estranged daughter Astrid (Jenna Ortega), but also sees the return of the crafty, clownish demon Beetlejuice (Keaton).
Ryder and Ortega work incredibly well together as mother and daughter, and the film weaves a satisfying tapestry of family bonds resisting the toxic people around us.
Gloomy yet vibrant and hilarious, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice continues the first film’s blend of macabre humour and undead bureaucracy, and is full of warped sets and wonderful practical effects (with director Tim Burton insisting on the minimum of CGI).
characters of the year as Rory, Lydia’s manipulative fiance. Beetlejuice’s limits and the rules of the afterlife are a little nebulous, which does dent the tension slightly, and while Beetlejuice Beetlejuice has a strong running thread of Astrid growing closer to Lydia as she discovers the afterlife that drove them apart, Monica Bellucci is an afterthought villain as Delores, Beetlejuice’s sensuous, deadly but easily-forgotten wife.
A ghastly, endearing and above all fun film with great performances from Keaton, Ryder and Ortega but some slack pacing and a wasted villain, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is playing in most Victorian cinemas.
Art, music, tastes at Burinja
Burrinja Centre
Sunset Sessions.
Art – Food – Gin – Dance
Discover the magic of Burrinja at this special Spring Themed Sunset Session.
Immerse yourself in an evening of vibrant art, lively music and tantalising tastes on Friday 2 September.
Celebrate the final week of the extraordinary of the extraordinary Botanical exhibition, with a spectacular lineup.
Botanical Dual Exhibition: Drawn from Nature and Banks Florilegium in the Burrinja Gallery
Catching the Storm Within Exhibition by Megan Archer un the aerie gallery.
Botanical Art Workshop with the talented Martha Iserman.
Lively bush Dance led by the dynamic Bushwahzee.
Exquisite Gin Tasting courtesy of Ginfinity (Killik).
Delicious Paella prepared by Mullum Creations.
Artist Talk from exhibiting Botanical artist John Pastoriza Pi?ol.
• Join Burrinja from 8pm to 9pm for an unforgettable evening of creativity and culture.
Nova Music theatre
Brigadoon
Transport yourself to the mystic Scottish Highlands where a charming village appears once every hundred years.
Filled with romance, adventure, and unforgettable memories, this classic musical will captivate audiences of all ages.
• Season opened 13 September and closes 22 September.
Theatrical presents A Chorus Line
A show about the hopes, dreams and struggles of 17 dancers that hope to get into a chorus line in the latest show on Broadway.
Beside auditioning as dancers, they each are asked questions about themselves.
A first class production with an amazing standard of timing from each dancer.
A simple set comprising of five mirrors at rear of stage which were moved about to suit the occasion. Dancers were in rehearsal costumes for the entire show except at the finale.
The director, Zach, for the show onstage was Julian Dods. He had the job of cutting the 17 dancers down to eight.
Not a happy task. Cassie, one of the auditionees, was a former star who wanted this job desperately.
Played by Madeline Pratt who handled the role with finesse.
Nathan Fernandez was Paul, a mixed up character who surprised all in his performance.
A good interpretation of the character.
A full orchestra of 17 musicians who accompanied the dancers with aplomb.
A full house for opening night and a sow highly recommended to see.
Willem Dafoe is clearly having a blast as Wolf Jackson, an action star turned afterlife detective, and Justin Theroux is one of the most detestable
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Eating place (4)
3 Exercises (10)
10 Princess Diana’s maiden name (7)
11 A source of light (3,4)
12 Places to sleep (8)
13 Transparent (5)
14 Voice communication over the internet (1,1,1,1)
15 To continue indefinitely (10)
18 Relighting (10)
20 Sham (4)
21 Colony insect (3)
23 Ocean (8)
26 Town in France with a shrine to St Bernadette (7)
27 Furnish (7)
28 Someone who receives repeated access to a service (10)
29 Book ID (1,1,1,1)
DOWN
1 Throw (4)
2 Prussian king, – the Great (1712–1786) (9)
4 Relating to the body (9)
5 False gods (5)
6 Unauthorised (7)
7 Laughable (5)
8 Take the place of (9)
9 Cicatrix (4)
14 Elements that can change (9)
16 Tropical fruit (9)
17 Professors (9)
19 Wandering (7)
22 Hand digit (5)
23 Japanese dish (5)
24 Perching on (4)
25 Uncharitable (4)
No. 203 No. 202
SPLIT-LEVEL SANCTUARY
SPLIT-LEVEL SANCTUARY, STUNNING VIEWS
PERCHED against a backdrop of spectacular easterly vistas, this stylish and contemporary residence is poised to nurture your soul and delivers an exceptional lifestyle haven. Thoughtfully designed to capture the light and frame the landscape, the split-level layout blurs the lines between indoors and out. The home is introduced by a meandering garden path that sets the scene before spilling to a lavish sunrise deck where uninterrupted panoramas beckon. Tucked well off the main road, the home is conveniently situated under 5-minutes from Monbulk in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, and offers the perfect balance of style, serenity and convenience.
Gleaming tiled floors underpin the meals zone where skylights and rustic raked ceilings create a canopy of light and texture. Galley style, the modern chef’s kitchen is adorned with sleek stainless-steel appliances, luxe waterfall stone benchtops and artfully placed feature windows framing picturesque garden glances. A connected laundry can also function as a Butler’s pantry providing
additional functionality and storage space.
Downstairs, but still connected, a sunken lounge rests under cathedral ceilings with a warm wood fire beckoning you to put your feet up, whilst floor skimming windows draw the outdoors in.
Absolutely show-stopping, the semi-covered deck with reclaimed timber feature wall is where you’ll greet the day as the sun rises over the valley. Moments of quiet contemplation, social affairs with friends and family or lazy alfresco dinners can all be enjoyed here as you take in the dreamy views. Adjoining, an allweather patio houses a BBQ/outdoor kitchen for fabulous entertaining.
Modern baths (main with spa) and 3 comfortable bedrooms ensure luxurious retreats.
A quaint children’s room with lush fern outlook offers ladder access to an enchanting roofline cubby house, or the versatility to serve as a home office. Downstairs, behold the private parent’s retreat with luxe walk-in robe and glass shower ensuite, both housed behind chic barn doors.
YOUR OWN CHARACTER HILLS GETAWAY
‘THIS beautifully renovated log cabin home, located on just under half an acre in a quiet setting, seamlessly combines character and contemporary charm. The property offers three bedrooms, including a master with an ensuite, and two renovated bathrooms.
As you step through the unique ‘split stable’ front door, you are welcomed by stunning timber floorboards that extend throughout the home. The open plan living and dining area is spacious and inviting, and offers two living areas, perfect for entertaining or for potentially converting one into a study or 4th bedroom. An open fireplace set into a stone wall adds a cozy ambiance, while skylights above the dining area allow natural light to pour in, creating a bright and warm atmosphere. Ducted heating throughout the home ensures comfort during the colder months.
The kitchen, conveniently adjoining the dining room, is well-equipped with a large 900mm oven, farmhouse copper sink, dishwasher, ample cupboard space, and a walk-in pantry. Beyond the kitchen, the two
additional bedrooms and the main bathroom provide a private and practical layout, separated from the main living areas. The downstairs laundry with attached storage room adds to the home’s appeal.
Outside, you’ll find a fully fenced yard that ensures privacy and security, making it ideal for families and pets. A spacious entertaining deck offers picturesque views and is perfect for outdoor gatherings or enjoying the serene surroundings. The established garden is a true highlight, featuring a tranquil pond with a water feature and two beautiful blossom trees that add colour and charm to the landscape. Additional features include a workshop and a shed for extra storage or hobbies, 3kW solar panels for reduced energy costs, and a circular driveway that provides easy access and ample parking.
Conveniently located near local amenities such as Woolworths, cafes, schools, sports grounds, Emerald Lake Park, and public transport. Make this home yours today and enjoy a lifestyle of comfort and tranquillity.
WARBURTON MASTERPIECE, STUNNING VIEWS
THIS newly built exceptional home has been designed with style and sophistication that will appeal to all. Sleek, modern, and meticulously furnished, its simplicity allows the home to be the highlight, with majestic mountain views as a backdrop. Perched high with privacy as a priority, you won’t want to leave.
This home features premium efficiency throughout, boasting a 6.5 star energy rating, double glazed windows and doors, low energy LED lighting, and natural gas hydronic heating. Every inch of the home feels warm, with an additional level of comfort provided by three split systems. The versatile layout includes four bedrooms and three bathrooms, plus study.
Upstairs, the master bedroom features quality carpets, a large walk in robe, and a sumptuous ensuite. The kitchen serves as the centerpiece of the home with ample space, stone benchtops, seamless and extensive cupboards, quality appliances, and a butler’s pantry, a delight for the chef in the family.
The home features hybrid flooring throughout and an open plan living and dining area with high architectural ceilings that add to the bright modern vibe. The expansive, zero maintenance composite decking offers the best seat in the house, overlooking the golf course and spectacular views of Mount Little Joe. Two additional bedrooms and a large family bathroom complete this level.
Downstairs offers a fabulous setup with a double garage spanning around 56m², a storeroom, and a studio/bathroom with its own patio and access to the gardens. This turnkey property presents an opportunity for an executive buyer looking for a grand weekender, an Airbnb for the up and coming bike tracks, or a home with nothing left to do except enjoy. A superb location with easy access to walking tracks, the pristine Yarra river, shops and cafes - not to mention a wander across the road for the morning round of golf!
A stunning example of classic federation charm in a highly sought-after location, this extensive character home boasts a façade of reclaimed red bricks, dating back 100 years. A perfect property for families and entertainers alike, the property combines classic charm with modern convenience.
The home features four bedrooms, each providing a peaceful retreat along with three bathrooms and four toilets. With three distinct living areas, this floorplan ensures there is space for every occasion. The formal lounge provides a cozy setting for intimate gatherings, while the open-plan family and dining areas are perfect for relaxed weeknight gatherings and day-to-day living. An oversized rumpus with bar is an outstanding space that could host the largest of parties or even become a teenagers retreat with its own bathroom and entrance.
As highlight features, recycled Baltic timbers for internal panelling and reclaimed internal doors have been installed throughout, showcasing the love and thought that has gone into creating this special home.
Upstairs, an intriguing attic style loft has been included to allow for a variety of uses and could easily assist with extra space for a bed-sit, home office or artist’s retreat. Heating and cooling consists of gas ducted heating, open fire place, gas heater and multiple split systems while ducted vacuuming is a great extra for easy cleaning.
Spanning over a near flat half an acre block, the property has a welcoming appeal as you walk through the front gates and offers expansive outdoor areas designed to accommodate both everyday living and grand entertaining. The large decking area with spa is ideal for dining and relaxing, while the beautifully landscaped gardens offer a serene and private backdrop.
Offering three carports, plus extended space for parking, the exterior of this property is just as impressive as the interior. For those with hobbies or creative pursuits, the separate studio is a versatile space that can be customized to suit your needs, whether
facilities, don’t miss your chance to make this exceptional house your new home.
HOME FOCUS
COUNTRY HOME MINUTES FROM TOWN
THIS charming three bedroom, two bathroom family home with double lock up garage, is conveniently located less than five minutes to the Cockatoo shopping precinct. Enjoy the convenience of town whilst also soaking in the hills lifestyle and treed outlook.
The home has a welcoming driveway that leads to a wrap around front verandah that frames that sturdy brick home. Inside discover slate flooring throughout the living areas and carpet in the bedrooms. The kitchen is open plan with the cosy dining room with woodfire heater, and adjoins the lounge room complete with gas heater and ceiling fans. The kitchen offers plenty of bench and pantry space, a dishwasher, gas stove top and an oven. There is a large laundry with its own external access, and a family bathroom with updated vanity and a fantastic original sunken bath tub. Two of the bedrooms feature built in wardrobes, and the expansive master bedroom has a walk through wardrobe and private ensuite with shower and toilet.
Wander outside to discover a terraced backyard, a double lock up garage with concrete floor, power & lights, and a 3m * 3m shed.
This property has it all so don’t miss outcall to arrange a private inspection today. Call Aaron Day 0407 365 994 or Brennan Mileto 0422 996 451.
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.
-$1,030,000
PrivatelyLocated,Beautiful 4BedroomHillsHomeonOverHalfanAcre! With awraparoundverandahleadingtothefrontdoor,stepinsidethis4BR,2-bathroom,2 living home.Youarewelcomedbya spaciousentry,HeadintotheTheatre/ManCaveorcontinue aheadintotheopenplanlounge/diningroomwithpitchedtimberceilings,floorboards,a toasty woodfire,whilstthehomealsohasGDH.Walkthroughthediningareatothekitchen,complete withfreestandingoven &brand-newductedvacuumsystem.Fromthekitchenyouhaveaccess totheundercoverdeck,completewithbuilt-inbar &outdoorspa.Addtothehome arenovated familybathroom &laundry,newcarpetstothebedrooms,&MasterwithWIR &ensuite.Outsidehas aconcreteddrive,fullyfencedyard,landscapedgardens,firepitarea,doublecarport,studio,& doublecardrivethroughgaragewithseparatedrivewayaccess.
THIS charming residence is more than just a house; it’s a lifestyle upgrade, offering 4 bedrooms, multiple living zones with a harmonious blend of comfort, style, and convenience. Step inside and be greeted by a light-filled lounge and dining area, where natural light floods the space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The open-plan design seamlessly integrates the indoor and outdoor living spaces, with the dining area flowing effortlessly onto a fabulous deck, this outdoor haven is perfect for entertaining, as you soak in the serene surroundings. The kitchen and meals area also leads onto the rear deck, offering another space to enjoy alfresco dining. The fully fenced backyard provides a safe and private retreat for children to play or for pets to roam freely. The master bedroom comes complete with its own balcony and semi ensuite. Downstairs, discover a large rumpus room bathed in natural sunlight—an ideal space for family movie nights, a playroom, or
even a home gym. A study nook is thoughtfully included, providing a quiet spot for work or study. Outside, the property continues to impress, with space for three cars in the double and single carports, there’s ample parking for the whole family. A generous-sized studio offers endless possibilities, whether you need a home office, artist’s studio, or guest accommodation. Additionally, a large workshop is perfect for the DIY enthusiast or for extra storage. Located within walking distance to Selby Tennis Courts, Minak Reserve, the local primary school, and a convenient bus stop, this home offers the perfect blend of peaceful living and accessibility. Belgrave Central is just a five-minute drive away, ensuring you’re never far from shops, cafes, and the vibrant community life. This home is more than just a place to live—it’s where your family’s memories will be made. Don’t miss the opportunity to make it yours.
1.The proposal involves the following: The installation of six (6)
panel antennas (2533mm x 350mm x 208mm) on the existing monopole at a height of 30m; The installation of three (3) new panel antennas (793mm x 408mm x 235mm) on the existing monopole at a height of 30.9m; The upgrade of the existing AusNet compound area (5390mm x 3310mm) to a new Amplitel compound area (9890mm x 4500mm); and the installation of ancillary cabling and feeders, to improve Telstra’s mobile phone network (including 4G/5G).
2.Telstra regards the proposed installation as a ‘Low impact’ Facility under the Telecommunications (Low Impact Facilities) Determination 2018, based on the description above. The proposal is exempt from the requirement for a planning permit, pursuant to the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme Clause 52.19-1. The proposed infrastructure will comply with the ACMA EME regulatory arrangements.
3.In accordance with Section 6 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Planning Consultant on behalf of Telstra, via email to planning.vic@servicestream.com.au, phone: 03 9937 6555, via post to Planning Consultant, Servicestream, PO Box 14570, Melbourne, VIC 8001 by 5pm, Wednesday 9 October 2024. Service Stream Ltd ABN 46 072
First Nations girls picked
By Mikayla van Loon
In an inaugural first for both Victoria and Australia, a talented collection of young First Nations netballers will compete in a three day tournament this weekend. Representing the outer east will be Wurundjeri woman and Seville netballer Emlyn Turriff and Mara woman and former Olinda-Ferny Creek player Olivia Spence.
Emlyn, 15, started playing netball at the age of seven for Montrose Netball Club, where she was selected to play representative netball for the Lilydale and Yarra Valley Netball Association. Moving to the Seville Football and Netball Club last year, Emlyn said aside from the friendships and the community that comes with netball, the competitive nature of sport has always inspired her.
“I really enjoy having a goal to work towards. I’m a very achievement based person, so I really like to work towards something. I’m also pretty competitive, so I love that you’ve got to fight for a win and things like that,” she said.
Selected in Victoria’s First Nations team as an attacking mid-courter, Emlyn said that wasn’t always her chosen position.
“I’ve only become a mid-courter this year. I’ve only ever played goal attack or goal shooter but my height has proven that it’s not as easy when you’re short,” she said.
“My strength though as a mid quarter is definitely my circle feed, because I’ve been a goal attack for so long, I know where the goalers want the ball. I know where they’re going to go next. So I feel like that’s definitely a strength of mine, reading where they want the ball.”
Having followed a similar path, Olivia, 19, said she initially started as a goal defender but has since made the transition to wing defence and centre because of her height. But still, Olivia said the competitive aspect of the game and also being the one to turn over play as a defender were two things she loves about the sport.
“I like reading the play and picking the right moments when to go for those intercepts and try and not get in the bad books with the umpires,” she said.
“Just trying to pick the right moments when to go and also respecting my attacker. I love the physicality of being a defender. I like how you can just keep going and hassling and the big moments when you get those intercepts is pretty cool too.”
Originally chosen as a training partner, Olivia said that was such an honour but an injury in the playing list has meant she will now take the court throughout
the tournament.
“The training partner experience was amazing. I loved just going to the trainings and learning, and you still feel very included in the squad, and you’re a part of the team. I was very thankful for having the opportunity to be a training partner,” Olivia said.
“I’m a little nervous, but also more excited to take the court now.”
Emlyn said as the youngest player on the team, it’s been a valuable experience being able to learn and look up to the older players, as well as the coaching team. With players coming from all over the state, both Emlyn and Olivia said that even in the short amount of time they’ve had to train together, it has become such a bonded team.
“We’ve definitely connected and gelled really well in a six week period. Everyone gets along. We’re all reading off each other. We did some match play today (8 Sept), and it was very connected. We’re all very ex-
cited and ready to play,” Olivia said.
“I am looking forward to building teamwork a bit more. We’re staying together over the tournament weekend so I definitely think that will bring everyone a little bit closer and hopefully all the quick connections that we make will result in successful finals,” Emlyn said.
Both Olivia and Emlyn said it was a huge privilege and honour to be selected to the inaugural First Nations state team, to represent their communities, culture and heritage.
While Olivia has played in a First Nations team before in under 15s, Emlyn said this was her first time participating in any heritage based programs.
“I attended trials originally, just for the experience, just to get out there and have a go. So I was definitely surprised when I was offered a spot on the team, not that I didn’t want to be in the team, it’s just being 15 my hopes were pretty slim,” Emlyn said.
“But I’ve had to give up playing in my Seville grand final to play so I think that hints and represents how much this selection means to me and the opportunity to play at a state level means to me.”
Having very similar views on the ability of sport to bridge the gap in First Nations equitability and taking steps towards reconciliation, Olivia said “sport brings people together” while Emlyn said “if sport becomes more inclusive, so will the community”.
“My nan and my mum grew up in a time where being indigenous held a stigma. So within our family, our heritage wasn’t talked about too much. With this new sporting thing we’ve seen a turning point with attitudes and things like that,” Emlyn said.
“I just really want to show others, everyone else, that there’s no label necessary. We can do just as much as any other person. We can achieve the same things.
“I can already see it bridging, especially because I’ve been given this opportunity whereas my mum and my nan may not have.”
The inaugural Victorian First Nations team has been coached by Noel Halton (of Palawa heritage) and assistant coach, proud Yorta Yorta, Warlpiri, Wiradjuri, and Gunditjmara woman Jess Bamblett.
“Not only are these athletes highly skilled on the court, it is evident that they want to take this opportunity to be leaders and role models in their communities. I’m looking forward to working with these athletes and congratulate each of them for their selection in the team,” Noel said.
The Netball Australia First Nations tournament will be held from 13 to 15 September at Victoria’s State Netball Centre in Parkville.
Norman wins silver in state Half Marathon Champs
By Jamie Strudley
The Victorian Half Marathon Championships were held at the fast, flat course along the Yarra River in Burnley on Sunday morning. Yarra Ranges Athletics had a large team of athletes, all keen to test their PB’s and earn valuable team points.
Harry Norman was on fire once again, showcasing his improving strength with an excellent run. A very strong finish earned Harry the silver medal and a new PB. Max Savill-Bentley just missed a sub 70 minute run while Katrina Winger was the best performing athlete in the women’s comp with an excellent 21st place finish.
• Male Open 21.1km: Harry Norman 1:04:53; Max Savill-Bentley 1:10:51; James Laven
1:14:51; Tynan Mims 1:16:03; Luke Hunter
1:19:27; Jared Byrne 1:20:32; Michael Clarke
1:24:45; Trent Ashton 1:29:43; Angus Norman 1:34:24;
• Male Open 5km: Matthew Morrison 19:34; Craig Hewitson 23:28;
• Male 20 5km: Daniel Groves 17:10;
• Male 16 5km: Mitchell Pointon 18:31; The team now looks forward to the final round next weekend, the Tan Relays. Our Women’s Division 2 team are sitting one point behind
first, a win next weekend will see them promoted to Division 1 for 2025. Our men’s team are in a battle for second place in Division 2 and currently a clear leader in Division 6.
Thank you to our wonderful athletes and their families for joining us on Saturday morning for the 2024 Cross Country Presentation Day. It was a beautiful sunny morning at Yarra Glen Playground. We hope you enjoyed the activities and will remember your great achievements this season. Congratulations to our main awards winners:
• XC Champion Girl - Victoria James
• XC Champion Boy - Riley Yoke
• XC President’s award - Lexi Aders
• XC President’s award - Eamon MacKay
‘That’s what Cross Country is all about’ Family Awards - Congreve Family
YRA hope you all enjoy the break before track season starts on the 5 October. Registrations will open soon!
Training for all club members is at Morrison Reserve on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5.30pm. Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability. New members and anyone interested in trialling are always welcome
Go to www.lavic.com.au or www.athsvic. org.au or email info@yarrarangesathletics.org. au for information about membership, events and registration.
For information on training, how to join or trial, photos, results and updated news, visit the website at yarrarangesathletics.org.au or check us out on Facebook. Run, Jump, Throw…too easy!
Wurundjeri woman Emlyn Turriff, 15, is the youngest player on the Victorian team.
Mara woman, Olivia Spence, 19, will take to the court in the inaugural First Nations tournament. (Supplied)
State half marathon runner up Harry Norman. (Supplied)
