Sustainable focus for College
Over the course of the year, Lilydale Heights College’s Year 12 VCE Vocational Major students designed and collaborated on a community based project with a lens for creating a sustainable habitat and reinvigorating wildlife in the local area.
This led them to the building of nesting boxes to be installed in Old Pound Reserve, just across the road from the school.
After months of work, documentation and liaising with Yarra Ranges Council and arborists, the final step of the project came to life on Tuesday 10 September with the nesting boxes finding their place in the reserve, thanks to the skill of a team of arborists.
Turn to page 17 to find the full story
Lilydale Heights College’s Year 12 VCE Vocational Major students with their finished nest boxes ready to install at a local reserve. (Supplied)
Vets want action
By Tanya Steele
The final report of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide was handed down on Monday 9 September - a pivotal moment addressing the incredibly complex issue of veteran suicide in Australia.
The report represents a step forward in improving outcomes for veterans, particularly in their transition from military to civilian life.
This is an ongoing crisis with an average of three deaths by suicide every fortnight over the last decade.
Boronia Veterans’ Advocacy Centre president Dave Menz said the good thing is they’ve done it.
“We want them to accept and implement the recommendations fully,” he said.
The report has 122 recommendations to address cultural and systemic challenges that are failing serving and ex-serving Australian Defence Force members and their families - and costing lives.
Star Mail was invited to sit down for an open discussion on the recent news of the report, as veterans, fellow volunteers and community members gathered to catch up over lunch on 11
September at the Veterans’ Advocacy Centre.
Mr Menz, along with many others at the centre, spends hours of his time doing anything from helping fill out paperwork for things like retrospective medical discharges, a complex process for any veteran, to assisting with home help or medical appointments.
Continued page 4
$800 million legal assistance boost
By Mikayla van Loon
An $800 million legal assistance package has come as a welcomed announcement from the Federal Government after months of advocacy from community legal centres.
The funding shortfall experienced by the community legal sector, who have been regarded as the quiet frontline workers in the family violence response, was reaching dire levels, with people being turned away from support.
Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC) chief executive officer Michael Smith said when around 75 per cent of his team’s resources, time and effort goes to supporting people navigating family violence, the acknowledgement of that work was reassuring.
“It’s a huge problem across eastern Melbourne, it’s a huge issue in the Yarra Ranges,” he said.
“So much of our time and effort goes into responding to family violence, whether it’s through the intervention work in the courts, or whether it’s through prevention programs or early intervention programs but often people don’t understand how important that legal support is.
“For the Prime Minister, National Cabinet and the Attorney General to talk about uplifting legal services responding to gender based violence is really critical.”
The multi-million dollar package will be delivered over five years from July 2025, with the final details of what that will look like for each service still to be decided.
It was announced at National Cabinet on Friday 6 September as part of the total $4.7 billion package designed to respond to the national crisis of family, domestic and sexual violence and support legal assistance.
Of the total package, the Federal Government will put $3.9 billion towards supporting frontline legal assistance services to be delivered through a new partnership agreement with the states and territories.
Renaming the assistance program, the newly created National Access to Justice Partnership will replace the National Legal Assistance Partnership (NLAP) due to expire on 30 June 2025.
Mr Smith said the ideal outcome for ECLC would be to use the extra funding to expand the wraparound team which supports people who have experienced family violence.
That would include the growth in the number of community lawyers, family violence advocates and financial counsellors.
The announcement also allowed for “improvements in indexation” to ensure the underpayment of staff was dismantled and achieved an equal outcome for all in the legal assistance sector.
“The fact [that the government is] prepared to respond to those structural issues as well just shows a really strategic approach,” Mr Smith said. “It’s not all about service delivery, it’s about
making sure the organisation is sustainable and looks after its people as well. So that’s really pleasing too that the government understands that, it’s really encouraging.”
The community legal sector had been calling for an increased budget spend in May but were disappointed in the allocation of funds.
Mr Smith said since then, talks with Attorney General Mark Dreyfus, both directly at events and at ECLCs offices, as well as indirectly through community legal advocacy bodies, had been extremely positive.
“The Attorney General Mark Dreyfus has been here a number of times, but he’s been to community legal centres across the country, and he’s been a really strong advocate to take this forward too.
“So I think he’s done a really impressive job in terms of actually arguing that, both locally here, but also to take that message back to Canberra to his colleagues.”
In the joint announcement with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Mr Dreyfus said funding was critical to ensure “essential frontline services” continue operating to help the most vulnerable.
“I have spent decades fighting for a better deal for the legal assistance sector. Legal assistance is essential to ensuring access to justice and equality before the law for all Australians, and safety for victims and survivors of family, domestic and
sexual violence,” Mr Dryefus said.
“I thank the many workers on the frontline who have been tireless advocates for the sector and for the rights of the thousands of Australians who rely on them every year.”
Mr Smith said ECLC had previously been on the receiving end of Mr Dreyfus’ determination to fund legal services, with the Healesville office being made possible the last time he held the position of Attorney General over 10 years ago.
To have received this funding news now, Mr Smith said he was “very pleasantly surprised” because it was not expected this early.
“We were concerned we would have to wait because the national agreement doesn’t start until July next year.
“People were really worried we might not hear anything until December and there’s a few state elections coming up too, then if we go into next year, there’s going to be a federal election, and then there’ll be the main budget.
“Technically our contract only runs to June next year, and after that, there was no certainty whatsoever.”
Mr Smith said an announcement of this significance would give staff and community legal centres across the country confidence heading into 2025 that funding will at least remain stable until the new partnership agreement is instated.
IN BRIEF
Ambulance scarcity
Montrose, Ringwood and Yarra Junction were among 30 ambulance branches in metro Melbourne to drop ambulance crews overnight on Saturday 14 September according to the Victorian Ambulance Union (VAU).
This was paired with at least 20 ambulances also dropped across rural Victoria because of high levels of sick leave.
The VAU stated there are normally approximately 120 ambulances working night shifts each night. On Saturday night only 90 were in action, leaving a significant shortfall of ambulance resources across the Metropolitan Region.
Union members reported the incidents to VAU, also saying that intensive care crews were dropped including MICA8 (Ringwood).
Other reports included:
• Multiple crews calling for Intensive Care back up for critically unwell patients told none are available.
• Code 1 cases held for over an hour for available crews.
• Crews driving 60km or more to get to Code 1 cases.
• Reports that the Metropolitan region dropped to one per cent fleet availability.
VAU secretary Danny Hill said warnings about staffing and conditions have issued.
“The members rarely get breaks, almost never finish on time and they are exhausted and burnt out. So, this is the reality we are facing,” he said.
“We have been warning about the need to better support the workforce, so we have a healthy and well-supported workforce. If you don’t support the workforce, then the response to the community suffers.”
February storm review
Following February’s freak storm which saw areas of Cardinia and Yarra Ranges with power outages for days and weeks, an independent panel’s final report into how privately owned power companies responded has been released.
On 13 February, Victoria experienced a catastrophic storm that damaged 12,000km of powerlines and poles across the state’s electricity distribution businesses, causing power outages that impacted more than 500,000 homes and businesses.
The cost of the outages was estimated in the range of $770 million which includes the economic and social costs to residents and businesses, and direct costs to distributors and Victoria, while excluding compensation payments.
The storm resulted in six transmission towers collapsing, and a major 500-kilovolt transmission line failed.
The expert panel comprised Rosemary Sinclair, Gerard Brody and Kevin Kehl and made 19 recommendations and 12 observations.
An annual declaration from AusNet to the energy and resources minister about its currency and completeness of emergency risk management practices; and for the Victorian Government to work with the Commonwealth Government and telecommunications carriers to ensure that there are appropriate arrangements, via existing services or alternatives, for communities to stay connected for 72 hours without network power supply were among the recommendations.
The Government will respond to the recommendations in the review later this year.
To read the final report visit, energy.vic.gov. au/about-energy/safety/network-outage-review
ECLC chief executive officer Michael Smith with Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus KC at the ECLCs 50th birthday celebration in May. (Supplied)
Vets welcome report findings
From page 1
“We still do our work here today, free of charge,” he said.
“Some (veterans) can’t handle being in certain places and they’re not getting looked after.”
The services they provide are unique and cater to the needs of the community. Mr Menz said there is now a facility called Vasey RSL Care, also known as the V Centre which launched in Ivanhoe in February this year.
Vasey RSL Care chief executive officer Janna Voloshin said she commended the report but emphasised the importance of timely action.
“While we appreciate the report, the real test will be in how quickly the government responds. Veterans can’t afford to wait.”
Ms Voloshin said the importance of a proactive approach was essential, highlighting that the transition from the ADF to civilian life is a critical time for veterans’ wellbeing.
“The V Centre Veteran Empowerment Program is a current, operational solution to this recommendation,” she said.
“We hope the government will now consider partnering with us to share this societal responsibility.”
Yarra Glen RSL member Stephen Shortis said to him, the report has set out many ways that support can be provided or improved and the proposed appointment of someone to oversee the process is a positive step but it will depend on the calibre of the person chosen to establish or improve the system – and it will take time.
“Over the years, many attempts have been made to grapple with the problem, but none have had the size and scope of this inquiry and I compliment the members on their report,” he said.
“It is now over to the government.”
Fellow veteran advocate and Berwick RSL welfare committee member Julie Anderson
OAM said processes can be difficult and the Aussie Veterans can often streamline assistance. With a strong history of activism in the name
of all veterans Mr Menz said he has protested for years to bring justice, chalking pathways and highlighting the lives lost to suicide within the defence force.
“We’d be protesting outside Anzac house and we’d be outside the DVA,” he said.
“They were scared of us being radicals and going up there and hurting them – we were totally peaceful.”
More than 100 people rallied outside the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) in Melbourne in late August 2017 to call for a royal commission and the group also rallied on 24 April 2021 outside Victoria’s State Parliament.
According to Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data at least 1677 serving and exserving members died by suicide between 1997 and 2021, more than 20 times the number of personnel killed in active duty during that same period.
The royal commission estimated the true number of preventable deaths to be more than 3000.
“Veterans are putting in their claims now and then they are allocated to a dead person.”
“Essentially, they just put on a list and allocated a delegate, that delegate is going to take two years.”
Ms Anderson said she still has veterans waiting for claims that were lodged in 2022.
DVA secretary Alison Frame said in a statement after the final report was issued that the government would time the time to “appropriately consider the recommendations” which “are largely directed to Defence and DVA”.
“As I stated in my evidence to the Royal Commission, I acknowledge that in the past we have let down the veteran community and that going forward, we are committed to improving wherever we can,” she said.
“The Final Report represents a once-in-ageneration opportunity for meaningful change and, along with Defence, we will make every effort to address suicide and suicidality among our serving and ex-serving ADF personnel.”
Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson said he and the sub-branch members felt that now was the time for “genuine leadership” and that these recommendations cannot be put aside for future governments to act on.
“As commissioner Peggy Brown said ‘this is not a problem that Defence or the DVA can be trusted to solve by themselves’. The research from paramedics and police across Australia indicates there is a self harm or suicide event by a veteran every four hours,” he said.
“This cannot continue, the government must support veterans, there are thousands of disability and pension claims not being addressed by the DVA, these dismissive self important bureaucrats and politicians are stopping veterans from overcoming the trauma of war.”
Ms Anderson said she thinks the DVA were worried the group was getting traction at the time because the royal commission would expose a lot of issues within the department itself.
“There should be a royal commission into just the DVA,” she said.
“The terms of reference really didn’t shine a light on DVA, it was really focused on defence –don’t get me wrong, defence should have a lot to answer for and they had a pretty hefty light shone on there.”
Ms Anderson said that even getting basic home help and pharmacy and medical services can take months.
“They’re entitled to household services,” she said.
Mr Dobson said all parties involved in the royal commission and mentioned in the recommendations need to “get their act together and support those who are putting their lives on the line”.
“There have been 57 previous inquiries into veteran suicide in the past 30 years and yet the suicide rate has not diminished,” he said.
“Australia needs to build a better ADF and action the commissioner’s findings. Trying to recruit new ADF people must be difficult at the moment and we need to meet our defence capabilities, this is a significant time with all the geopolitical uncertainty.”
The Aussie Veterans advocacy group said they are hopeful for change but acknowledge it won’t change things on the ground for veterans for some time.
Ex-service members in attendance said that without the centre, their stories would be different.
For now, people like Mr Menz and Ms Anderson will continue to advocate for veterans.
“I’m 63 this year. I’m not that young, but my focus is on younger veterans,” Mr Menz said.
“It’s a team. We all work as a team. We have the ability to look after veterans and locals who aren’t veterans.”
Mr Dobson said if any veteran needs help for any reason then please contact him, you will be directed to a professional in the appropriate area, president@lilydalersl.com.au
• Lifeline 13 11 14
• Open Arms 1800 011 046
Boronia Veterans’ Advocacy Centre president Dave Menz and Berwick RSL welfare committee member Julie Anderson OAM have been advocating for veterans for many years. (Tanya Steele: 431740)
Casey, Aston to gain voters
The Federal electoral boundary changes have been finalised by the augmented Electoral Commission for Victoria, with both Casey and Aston to gain townships.
With the approved abolition of the Higgins electorate, redistribution of these suburbs, townships and residents was required to meet the enrolment quota ahead of next year’s election.
Electoral Commission chairperson Susan Kenny said she was grateful to all the individuals and organisations who contributed to the redistribution process.
“All written objections and comments, as well as the information presented at the inquiry, have been carefully considered in deciding the final names and boundaries,” she said.
“The augmented Electoral Commission has unanimously accepted the Redistribution Committee’s proposed abolition of the Division of Higgins, to retire the name of the Division of Higgins, and to modify the boundaries of 11 of the electoral divisions initially proposed in May 2024.”
The Casey boundary has expanded slightly, with the electorate now taking in Wonga Park and parts of Kangaroo Ground, Panton Hill, St Andrews, Christmas Hills and Kinglake.
Casey MP Aaron Violi posted to social media welcoming the new townships to the electorate.
“I am excited that our existing community remains together, and we now have these new communities within our boundary where many of us have existing connections – including myself, with my mum, a former teacher at Christmas Hills Primary School,” he said.
“I can’t wait to get out and hear what matters to locals in these new areas and represent their views in Federal Parliament.”
The Aston electorate also gained new voters, expanding into what were originally parts of Deakin, with Kilsyth South and parts of Ringwood, Heathmont and Bayswater North all transferring under the new boundary.
“I’d like to give a warm welcome to everyone in those areas to Aston. I’m looking forward to meeting you all over the next several months as we head towards the next federal election,” Aston MP Mary Doyle said on social media.
“Thankfully, we have not lost any suburbs in the redistribution process - so if you are currently in the federal electorate of Aston, you will remain there at the next election. It’s been great working with all of you and I’m so glad you get to stay in Aston, and I’ll see you around.”
Victoria was identified last year as needing to
reduce the number of parliamentary seats from 39 to 38.
This means in the next election, there will be 150 members of the House of Representatives, down one from the current 151 seats.
An initial proposal from the Labor Government sought to abolish the Casey seat entirely to meet the voting population requirements.
In May, the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) proposed the inner-east seat of Higgins be abolished instead.
This triggered the domino effect of the boundary changes but Ms Kenny said the adopted redistribution would see “a very small increase in the number of electors who will change their electoral division”.
Despite many calls and objections for the Casey electorate to be renamed Barak after prominent and renowned Wurundjeri ngurungaeta (clan leader) William Barak, all names will remain the same for the 38 seats.
Maps of the new electoral boundaries will be made available on 17 October.
The Federal electoral boundary redistribution will change some voters electorate for the next election. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch)
Flood blueprint greenlight
By Mikayla van Loon
After a two week deferral, Yarra Ranges Council adopted its Stormwater Policy and Stormwater Management Plan despite renewed calls for improvements from the community.
Speaking in objection to the plan’s adoption, Kallista resident and floodwatch group member Karen Kestigian said a flood mitigation maintenance plan was required more immediately than the 10 year stormwater plan.
“The plan ascribes 10 years to plot and gather data. For the established communities flood mitigation is needed now,” she said.
“Shire communities include urbanised centres, villages, business precincts and rural locations. Increased storm events emphasise inefficient drainage systems in these communities. Current maintenance does not remediate frequent inundation and flash flooding events.”
Ms Kestigian said given the heightened effects of climate change and reoccurring flood events, “a proactive, stronger and more resilient” maintenance program was required especially during the months of August to March.
The pressure of the housing targets and the previous 20 years of building in the urban areas of Lilydale, Mooroolbark and Chirnside Park, Ms Kestigian said made the stormwater maintenance and infrastructure even more of a requirement now than ever before.
Ms Kestigian said the domino effect of flooding leads to or enhances the impacts of “slippage, erosion, inaccessibility, flooding impacts, insurance premiums, unsealed roads and safety implications”.
“The maintenance levels of a decade ago no longer apply. We appeal to the Yarra Ranges Council to endorse and commit, with a sense of urgency, to a Flood Mitigation Maintenance Plan that offsets the delivery period of the Stormwater Management Plan.”
When asked by Councillor Andrew Fullagar
whether in essence she and the floodwatch groups supported the stormwater plan, Ms Kestigian said they do and were realistic about the forward planning required to improve infrastructure but in the immediate future, actions needed to be taken.
“We do support the plan, but where we see the big gap is the 10 years and what’s going to happen to us, and we really need a more efficient way of dealing with the flooding.
“The flooding is getting worse. Climate change is real, and these sort of flooding events, we’re talking about 40 houses at a time or more in each area. This is not right, and people are suffering, and we need to help them, and we need a plan to do that.
“We go into these huge storm events and the drains are full, the drains haven’t been cleaned. The culverts are full. They’ve been rotting away. They cave in…there’s got to be a better way of maintaining what we’ve got now.”
Cr Fiona McAllister asked a number of questions to the executive around maintenance, the budget allocations for drainage works and projected timelines for the stormwater plan.
“The life of the plan is set at 10 years, as a suitable amount of time to deal with some really foundational pieces of work,” Built environment and infrastructure director Hjalmar Philipp said.
“First and foremost, the flood mapping that underpins a lot of the catchment scale plans is being undertaken over the next two years through a current arrangement with Melbourne Water.”
Mr Philipp said as with all 10 year plans, different timeline targets were estimated for the different actions which will either take two or four years.
Moving the recommended motion to adopt the plan, Cr Tim Heenan was seconded by Cr Fullagar.
“[The] council has obviously not lifted their game in the past, but they are now, and I believe
going forward, we have an opportunity to get it right with all the proper plans in place,” Cr Heenan said.
“This stormwater management plan is an overarching plan that sets the direction and key actions that puts the right foundations and information in place for comprehensive and up to date stormwater management.
“The plan is not about making decisions about specific projects. The plan focuses on balancing flood protection with the preservation of natural waterways, considering the impacts of urban development and climate change.”
Cr Heenan said “we have many millions of dollars in this, and following years, many millions more than what we’ve had ever in the time I’ve been on council” to conduct the drainage maintenance and to establish the appropriate mitigation measures.
Acknowledging that this was the “blueprint to start the process” Cr Heenan said the work was only just beginning but that the council “absolutely turned the corner in the last 10, 11 months”.
Cr McAllister reiterated that this plan was a “critical step forward for us as a municipality” but as the plan progresses, she would like to see the clarity and communication remain particularly over the 10 year timeframe.
“We are looking at a 10 year time frame. I appreciate that it’s a very difficult thing sometimes for us to articulate in simple ways. But I guess that’s my ask of all of us that we do find a way to give greater clarity about the plan of action and what to be expected on an individual road,” she said.
“Every time it rains, it induces trauma yet again and apart from investing money to try and get ahead of the game and fix the issues that are occurring, how do we find ways to communicate in simpler or clearer ways about the work that is planned and going to happen.”
The adoption of the plan was passed unanimously.
Unsealed roads - complex and ongoing but important
By Tanya Steele
The Yarra Ranges council have unanimously adopted their unsealed roads strategy despite resident and councillor rumblings on how effectively it will be delivered.
Optimal maintenance, effective asset management and effective investment planning were the three guiding principles of the report and resident Joe Miles from Mount Dandenong came forward at the council meeting on Tuesday 10 September to voice concerns about the newly adopted strategy.
Mr Miles said there seemed to be no consultation whatsoever with residents.
“I’m expressing views I think I can quite rightly say, are shared also by my neighbours, quite a few who are long term residents as well,” he said.
Mr Miles said the new proposed framework is not massively different to what has existed in the past and questioned council on what hopes residents have in the future of seeing their problems with unsealed roads resolved.
As someone who lives on quite a steep and unmade road, Mr Miles said the timeliness of responses after flooding often leaves the road in an unsafe condition.
“Often we will get couriers that will refuse to come down this road,” he said.
Mr Miles was in turn questioned at the meeting by councillors on what exact issues were and what ideally could be done in his opinion.
“Pie in the sky it would be some sort of sealing of the roads with these steep roads, at least in sections,” he said.
Mr Miles said he could also suggest drain stabilisation.
“We, as residents can then help to maintain them – rather than the current existing deep earth drains which are almost impossible for us to maintain,” he said.
“A number of us are quite elderly up there –we’re trying and do what we can, but we can’t handle debris coming from further up.”
“A lot of the cause of it is the gravel washing off the road.”
As the meeting progressed a number of references were made by councillors to a funding plan which was cut by Federal government, which would have delivered a nine-year, $150 million funding plan for Yarra Ranges Council to improve road conditions in the Dandenong Ranges and nearby areas.
In the October 2022 Federal Budget the council was informed the funding for the roads for the community initiative program would be reduced.
By January 2023 the council received official notice confirming the reduction and as a result only $47.7 million of the original $150 million commitment will be honoured.
Hand in hand with the unsealed roads, residents have also recently mentioned gravel runoff in the recently delivered Yarra Ranges Council draft stormwater management plan.
“There were three comments received regarding drainage issues associated with un-
sealed roads,” read the draft stormwater management plan for 2024-2034 in the engagement feedback report.
“Feedback raised concerns about gravel runoff and blockages on the municipality’s unsealed roads, which affect local drainage systems.”
The officer response in this report stated that the road for community initiative was a critical infrastructure funding opportunity aimed at sealing roads across the municipality and simultaneously addressing localised drainage issues.
“Unfortunately, the Federal Government’s decision to withdraw its support has significantly impacted council’s ability to deliver the projects.”
”This review encompasses an approach to future road construction, taking into account factors such as abuttal density, maintenance issues, the council’s special charge scheme poli-
cy, and the availability of capital budgets for upgrading council assets across the municipality. “
At the recent meeting Councillor Andrew Fullagar said he acknowledged the importance and complexities of the unsealed road document with emerging issues such as climate change, emergency management, management of the road system and tightening resources.
“The key objectives is to optimise maintenance, improving the surface contracts and performance, using the best materials for the site, and that varies a lot right across the shire,” he said.
“We need a common sense approach…we should rely on the community more but overall, I’m comfortable with the recommendation to endorse this framework tonight.”
Cr Fiona McAllister said she had mixed emotions about the motion.
“This is really a framework to start to consult more deeply – we’re talking 700 plus kilometres of unsealed road,” she said.
“I’m hoping that this document will push that focus on proactive maintenance works.”
Mayor Sophie Todorov said the report also includes further opportunity for community consultation and petitions to be raised at council.
Cr Tim Heenan said despite being in support he did have a cause for concern specifically with dirt roads and emergency vehicle access.
“We’re going to have ongoing problems in weather events where we can’t get to all those roads.” he said.
“There might be older folk who can’t get in or out, along with emergency vehicles.”
Cr Fullagar said he would like to refer to people who submit to council.
“We see it as a cry for help, and we hear your frustration.” he said.
“Keep reporting those issues to us.”
“This plan should help us to be more efficient in planning our air the sealing program in the future.”
The motion was passed unanimously by the council.
The stormwater management plan was adopted in full but the community raised concerns about the immediate nature of maintenance. (File: 295256)
Unsealed roads, like this on in Seville are among over 700 kilometres of roads in the Yarra Ranges. (On File)
Plaques policy passes
By Gabriella Vukman
Deferred to this week’s council meeting on Tuesday 10 September, the motion for amendments to the Plaques and Memorials Policy were passed unanimously.
Concerns surrounding community consultation, consultation with First Nations people, the proposed structure of the panel, and the orientation of the report were raised by Sue Thompson.
Ms Thompson said, “The inclusion of this item in the last meeting’s agenda was accidentally discovered and led to several emails from concerned residents to the council. In this report, this has been taken as community consultation and I regard that as totally inadequate.”
“Only a handful of council staff were consulted and I quote from the report, ‘feedback has been sought from governance, recreation and sport infrastructure, design place, parks trees and trails, customer and communications.
“I’d stress to councillors that these parks and reserves belong to the community… so I believe the community must be widely consulted on them.”
In terms of First Nations consultation, Ms Thompson said, “nowhere could I find that First Nations people have been consulted. They have their stories which need to be told and understood and shared as well.”
Ms Thompson voiced questions surrounding the representatives who would be on the panel mentioned in the policy.
“Once adopted, this policy will oversee, and I quote from the report, ‘The plaques and memorials panel, including the representative government of parks, trees, and trails, the community’s directors and a senior policy officer appointed by the CEO to assess the applications.’ Which representatives and how many of each department will be represented on this panel,” Ms Thompson
asked.
“The policy does not seem to want to include a heritage representative on the panel. Why not?”
Ms Thompson recommended the inclusion of an indigenous, heritage and community representative officer.
In response to the concerns raised by Ms Thompson, Recreation, Parks and Facilities manager Phil Murton said, “Materially, we are aligned with what Ms Thompson said in terms of the direction of the policy.”
“We acknowledge the concerns around a lack of consultation, however, this report was developed through the extensive bench-marking of other council’s plaques and policies.
“We agree that there could be some alterations in terms of including social and cultural representation within the policy.”
The following recommendations were made to the Plaques and Memorials policy between its appearance in the Council meeting on Tuesday 27 August:
• Endorse the plaques and memorials policy.
• Update plaques and memorials policy and any subsequent protocols with findings and feedback from heritage strategy upon its endorsement.
• An update to the policy be made to include a heritage officer and indigenous development officer as part of the panel.
The notion that the policy’s flexibility is one of its draw cards was brought up by councillor Tim Heenan.
Despite Cr Len Cox’s suggestion that the policy was a bit rushed and that it “may have been good to defer it a bit longer to give the public more time to give their feedback on this policy,” the motion to move forward with the Plaques and Memorials policy was passed unanimously.
Same great bank, BIG new look!
The Mt Evelyn Bendigo Community Bank has been serving customers in the region for twenty-two years. We’ve given back more than $4 million dollars to community groups to help strengthen the social, emotional and physical wellbeing of our community. And we’re here to stay!
In fact, we are investing in our physical presence in Mt Evelyn, and will be closed and is undergoing a significant renovation in the coming weeks.
What that means is that from Thursday 19th September (noon) our branch including our atm will be closed while the builders revitalise our space, and we will reopen on Monday 16th October, ready to welcome our community in.
If you’re a customer, or looking to move your banking, customer banking needs during this period will be met through a range of ways, including:
• Our team will be located at Lilydale Branch to serve you during the refurbishment
• Our phone no. (9737 1833) will be diverted to the Lilydale branch
• Nearby ATM’s are located at 226 Main St Lilydale and 7/26 Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd Montrose
• A mobile lender is available to meet you by appointment at an agreed location
• Nearby Bendigo branches are located at Lilydale, Mooroolbark and Wandin.
• We want it to continue to be a place that we can feel proud of in our community, and a space that serves the needs of our banking customers.
Our refreshed branch aims to:
• create an open and friendly environment so we can continue to meet the daily banking needs of our customers;
• deliver meeting rooms and office space for customers and branch staff to conduct confidential banking business;
• upgrade the branch facilities to meet current banking standards; and
• demonstrate to our customers, and community, that we are here to stay (unlike the big 4)!
If you have any queries at all, please call the branch on 9737 1833.
We love having a big impact in our community through better banking!
Plaques and Memorials policy moves forward after being deferred during a previous council meeting. (Sincerely Media)
Men’s Shed feels squeeze
By Mikayla van Loon
The Montrose Men’s Shed put forward a passionate plea in the form of a petition requesting Yarra Ranges Council reconsider its stance on recreation space uses as the group looks for a more appropriate sized home.
Lee Kirkby spoke on behalf of the Men’s Shed at the Tuesday 10 September meeting raising the issue of limited space and desire to expand which has been blocked by the council’s policies.
“The Montrose and District Men’s Shed have been operating from a council leased facility behind the Montrose Public Hall for the last 10 years,” Mr Kirkby said.
“We now find that we have limited space available for facilities, and they are restricting our growth and ability to attract new membership.”
Seeking an alternative to their current premises, Mr Kirkby said the Shed approached the Montrose Recreation Reserve Committee with a proposal to build a new shed at the site of the old cricket nets.
Mr Kirkby said “they wholeheartedly endorsed our proposal to join their community” but after meetings with the council’s officers, it became clear there was “a gap between where responsibility for Men’s Shed sit in council policy”.
“[This] has led to an inability to be able to progress our request,” he said.
“At this stage, it was suggested that we wait for the outcomes of both the open space and recreation strategy and the property strategy, but there is no definitive statement that either of these would actually address our request, meaning only further delay and uncertainty.”
Offering to fund the purchase and build of a new shed themselves, through both fundraising and grants, Mr Kirkby said in order to prepare for this, all the necessary planning needs to occur sooner rather than later.
“The agreement requested is to lease a site, obviously subject to council terms and conditions
that would allow us to start some formal planning process, including developing a business case, site investigations, plans, drawings or relevant permits, costings, and developing a funding plan.
“We have set aside some saved funds for this preliminary work but we don’t want to start the process unless we actually know we could have tenure of a site. We don’t want to waste the funds or waste time in doing such on an unlikely adventure.”
Councillor Andrew Fullagar asked a number of questions of Mr Kirkby relating to the specifications of the new shed and the overall response from the community.
Mr Kirkby said the estimated shed size would be 200 to 250 square metres, a huge improvement on the current 88 square metre footprint of the Leith Road site.
He also said the petition was submitted with multiple letters of support from the scouts, the
Montrose Township Group and Montrose Primary School, with “absolutely unanimous” support given.
Cr Fullagar, supported by Cr Len Cox, moved the motion to accept and acknowledge the petition but put forward a case for adapting the council’s recreation policy to accommodate the Montrose Men’s Shed within the larger recreation reserve.
“They’ve made a number of submissions over several years trying to move forward on this project, and some of the key issues are the use of public space to accommodate buildings and activities unrelated to open space, along with associated minimum spatial impacts,” he said.
Given the approximate 10 hectares of land at the Montrose Recreation Reserve, Cr Fullagar said for what the Men’s Shed was asking for, it would be roughly 0.25 per cent of the total area and would be strategically placed to ensure the
new shed did not impede on green space.
Cr Fullagar said the Men’s Shed granted permission for the shed to be a council building, even if they raise the funds to build it, which had been noted as a concern.
“I don’t think that is necessarily an objection to it,” he said.
Most importantly, Cr Fullagar said the issue of location posed the question of ‘if not recreation, then what?’ particularly given the health and wellbeing benefits of the Men’s Shed philosophy.
“The role in the community and the municipality generally that men’s sheds do, that mental health space, that recreation, which it certainly is, I think that’s how you would class it, is obviously vital,” he said.
“The Men’s Sheds that are in existence are providing a very valuable resource and benefit to the men in our community.”
Using the council’s own values, Cr Fullagar said this was a project where the council could really put into action its mantra of ‘community first, can do’.
“Here’s an opportunity where the council can actually assist our community and there seems to be quite a lot of pushback over a number of years,” he said.
“Our new values say ‘we do what matters’ and I think this is one case where it does matter. We have an opportunity to help a section of our community and the community wants this to happen,
“‘We make it better’. Well, they’re struggling in the current facilities they have. It is an opportunity for us to assist them, to make it better for them and for the Montrose community.”
The two other values of ‘we do it together’ and ‘we make it happen’, Cr Fullagar said, were perhaps the easiest to enact with the offering of funds from the Men’s Shed and the council able to make a decision on the sheds construction.
The petition was accepted with a unanimous vote.
The Montrose Men’s Shed submitted a petition to the council calling for approval to build a new shed at the recreation reserve. (Mikayla van Loon: 310081)
NEWS Mitch’s Melba election
By Mikayla van Loon
As the Yarra Ranges Council election nears, candidates are making themselves known, including a 19-year-old from Mooroolbark.
Mitch Mazzarella will be vying for the Melba Ward councillor position come October with a focus on getting back to basics.
The current teacher’s aide at a local school, who is studying teaching at Australian Catholic University, said politics had always been something of interest to him.
“From a young age, I’ve had an interest in politics and the inner workings of government and council,” he said.
“Local councils have a significant presence in our daily lives, from rubbish collection to playgrounds. Yet, it often seems that residents only notice the council when something goes wrong.
“I’m running for council to draw attention to the areas where council isn’t meeting the mark. My goal is to bring back common sense and refocus attention onto these issues and advocate for the much needed improvements in the Mooroolbark and Lilydale area.”
Mr Mazzarella’s campaign message aims to highlight “the slow drift away from council’s core functions as a service based organisation” and see a return to the five R’s of roads, rates, rubbish, recreation and repairs.
“My main goals are to call out the council where it is overstepping the boundary, to bring back some common sense and to get our council back to the roles our community needs and relies on,” he said.
As a young person who has always called Mooroolbark home, Mr Mazzarella said he sees the Yarra Ranges as an “amazing and beautiful place to live” but he wants to ensure the shire has been forward-planned, with thought-out decision making especially for infrastructure.
“I’d like to see the Yarra Ranges look to the future and put money into projects that benefit our
community. We closed the Kilsyth pool without any forward planning and a dream of an indoor Lilydale pool.
“Before we start closing our community infrastructure, let’s look at whether viable alternatives actually exist.
“Maroondah ratepayers certainly aren’t going to pay for a joint swimming pool in Yarra Ranges and I wouldn’t expect our ratepayers to do the same. Driving to Healesville or Yarra Junction isn’t a viable option for residents in Mooroolbark and Lilydale.”
Similarly, Mr Mazzarella said he has met and spoken with the Lilydale Flood Watch group to better understand the flooding and drainage issues to enable his ability to advocate for his community.
“Regardless of whether I am elected or not, even having these conversations is a step in the right direction. Drawing attention to these issues means that these issues are brought to the front of the council’s mind,” he said.
As a “passionate Saints fan and a proud member of The Lilydale [Squash] Club” as well as an ice hockey player, Mr Mazzarella’s interests vary.
He has declared he is a member of the Liberal Party but is not endorsed, funded or influenced by the party.
Despite the result, Mr Mazzarella said he’d love for his campaign and running to inspire more young people to involve themselves in politics.
“By running for council, I aim to show that anyone, regardless of age, can make a meaningful difference in their community.”
Yarra Ranges Council Melba ward candidate Mitch Mazzarella, 19, has a focus on getting back to basics. (Supplied)
Aged care reforms hone in on freedom for older people
By Kat Wong and Andrew Brown, AAP
Senior citizens will be given more support and choice to live their golden years in dignity.
After a breakthrough deal with the coalition, the federal government will help Australians live at home for longer and improve conditions and protections for people residing in aged care facilities.
A $5.6 billion reform package will be the largest improvement to aged care in 30 years, according to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
“This is about caring for the generation that cared for us,” he said in Canberra on Thursday.
“We will deliver historic aged care reforms to ensure the viability and quality of our aged care system and support the growing number of older Australians choosing to retain their independence and remain in their homes as they age.”
A $4.3 billion package called Support at Home will come into effect from July and is expected to help 1.4 million Australians live independently in their home with support before going into aged care by 2035.
It will provide support for nursing, occupational therapy and day-to-day tasks such as cleaning, showering, dressing and shopping.
The government will pay all of the cost of clinical care services, while individuals will make means-tested payments for services to relating to everyday living and independence.
A new lifetime contribution cap of $130,000 will apply for non-clinical care costs.
Those using the Support at Home program could also get $25,000 in aid to spend their final three months at home, rather than at a hospital.
During the next four decades, the number of Australians over the age of 65 is expected to double and those older than 85 is predicted to triple.
But residential aged care providers are struggling to stay afloat and a taskforce report found the sector would need $56 billion to upgrade facilities and build the additional rooms needed to accommodate projected demand.
The Labor government will introduce reforms to ensure aged care providers can attract
investment and keep facilities open.
Laws will be introduced to protect the rights of Australians living in aged care, along with a regulator with investigative powers.
The rights of older Australians in aged care will be enshrined in laws, which providers will be forced to abide by.
New aged care quality standards will be implemented to improve the sector and drive
higher-quality care. The aged care agreement will provide a no-worse-off principle for people already in care facilities. Under the changes, the annual growth on government spending for aged care will moderate from 5.7 per cent to 5.2 per cent.
For every $1 per person in aged care contributes, the federal government will chip in $3.30 on average to residential care and $7.80 for Support at Home. Aged Care Minister Anika
Wells said the changes would lead to more services for older Australians.
“Our reforms will create better and safer care, help reduce the fear of a system that has been neglected for far too long,” she said.
Aged care providers have broadly welcomed the reforms though some have suggested new legislation include criminal penalties for serious harm and neglect.
Next phase of support
The Lilydale Mental Health and Wellbeing Local has taken its next step in supporting the community, with the walk-in service now up and running.
Having been operating a free over-the-phone service since December last year, the expansion adds to the important work already being delivered to the Lilydale and Yarra Ranges community.
It is part of a network of 15 Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals established following a key recommendation of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System.
“The Royal Commission made it clear that we needed to make the mental health system more accessible – and with walk-ins now available at the Lilydale Local, it’s now even easier for people in the area to get the support they need,” mental health minister Ingrid Stitt said.
“With cost of living challenges right now, our network of Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals are an important free service – there is no barrier to care with no GP referral or Medicare card required.”
Locals provide care and treatment for adults experiencing mental illness or psychological distress in their community, including those with co-occurring substance use or addiction.
Acting as a ‘front door’ to the mental health and wellbeing system, the service offers a welcoming and inclusive space, staffed by qualified mental health professionals, including peer support workers to cater for the diverse needs of all communities.
The Lilydale Local is operated by Wellways Australia, in partnership with Eastern Health, Inspiro and Oonah Belonging Place, with care delivered face-to-face, and via phone calls, telehealth appointments, community engagement activities and outreach.
Wellways Australia told Star Mail in January the service aims to provide a space and resource
for people in the middle of other available services.
“The ‘missing middle’ are people who need more support than they can get from their GP, but do not meet the high threshold for complex care services from a hospital,” a spokesperson said.
“The current waitlists across all mental health services in the region demonstrate the high demand for improved accessibility and coordination of Mental Health Services through a nowrong door approach where participants can make choices about the type of service they want to receive.”
As a transport hub and local business district, Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino said the Lilydale location will also help provide people further out with support.
“A walk-in service at the Lilydale Local now makes it easier for residents across the Dandenong Ranges to get that bit of extra care and support when they’re struggling with their mental health in a welcoming and accessible environment,” she said.
Since the first six began operating in October 2022, the Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals have provided support to more than 10,000 people.
Since the Royal Commission handed down its final report, significant progress has been made with work underway to implement more than 90 per cent of recommendations and more than $6 billion invested in the system over the past three years – the largest investment in mental health in Victoria’s history.
People in the Lilydale and Yarra Ranges community can now access the Mental Health and Wellbeing Local at its interim site 18 Clarke Street, Lilydale for walk-in support, available five days a week.
For more information, please visit betterhealth.vic.gov.au/mhwlocal
The Lilydale Mental Health and Wellbeing Local has established a walk-in service at 18 Clarke Street. (Unsplash)
NEWS Giving love and a home
By Mikayla van Loon
Three decades and countless hours of support, guidance and family has been at the centre of a Mount Evelyn couple’s desire to give as many children as possible an experience of a loving, happy home.
Janine and Ian have been foster carers with Anglicare Victoria for 32 years, providing a much needed home to young people at perhaps the most vulnerable time in their lives.
As a teacher, Janine said she always loved being around children and even after they had three of their own, both her and Ian felt they could still share more love.
“When our youngest started kinder, I realised that our three children were growing up so fast,” she said.
“So we looked into foster care then, and I was just really keen to share what our family had. We had three amazing kids, they were doing well, who were lucky enough to be in a happy family.
“And I just thought, ‘well, there are kids out there who need a happy family, and if we can provide that for a while, then why not do it?’”
Expecting to only be foster carers for five or 10 years while their children were young and at school, Janine said that “just started us on the road, and we’ve never really stopped”.
While of course the satisfaction of being able to give children a sense of respite was one of the main reasons Ian and Janine kept going, Ian said it was also incredibly rewarding to see the parents start fresh and build a new life.
“We’ve had some very positive experiences where our kids were in situations where they thought they were never going to return to their parents, and us being able to tide them over till their parents could get back on their feet,” he said.
“In some cases, the parents amazed us the extent to which they were able to resist the momentum of the system that would have ended up with their kids in care permanently.
“To be able to provide that bridge for them, to be able to get back on their feet, get their lives together, we’ve just been so proud to see some of these parents fight their way back and now have solid lives again.”
The aim of Anglicare Victoria’s foster care program is reunification with a child’s biological parents but when that’s not possible options of permanent care are considered.
Over the years, Janine and Ian have offered this to a small number of children who started in their care, some who they have officially adopted and others who as adults have sought them out and now just as much part of their family.
“There are some circumstances which meant that these children couldn’t go home. We weren’t quite expecting that, so we’ve had to make a decision sometimes to keep these children permanently,” Janine said.
“So some of the children ended up growing up in our family, and so now we have a much bigger family than when we started, and that was satisfying too.
“One young person has just come back to us as a young adult. We’ve stayed in contact with her ever since she left our care as a two year old. She thinks of me as mum, and she’s part of our family and that’s what’s important for her.
“If she didn’t have us, she wouldn’t have that family context, and she would be out there on her own.”
When they couldn’t offer full time care, Janine said as a family they worked with the child and Anglicare Victoria to find the right fit for permanent placement.
“We’re not superheroes. We’ve had a few kids where we simply couldn’t cope, who couldn’t work in our family, some of the alternatives for those kids are ending up in a residential unit, which can be pretty rough,” Ian added.
“But at least one or two of the kids have ended up moving from our family into families where they could grow up and all credit to those people
that they were able to take on an extremely demanding child and see it through.”
Anglicare Victoria eastern out-of-home-care program manager Tarni Haywood said across the eastern suburbs a reduction in foster carers because of external impacts has been noticed.
“We have seen a downturn in people applying to be carers pretty much since Covid and the cost of living, these are all things that have really impacted people’s availability and their capacity to assist,” she said.
“A lot of people are working from home, or they’ve had adult children return, so they don’t necessarily have that space.”
Tarni said while there has always been a need for more foster carers, that need is particularly strong at the moment, from respite to long term care.
“We have a big need for emergency care. So that could be up to three weeks but it could be for a single night,” she said.
“We work with carers to match what their availability is, to match what they can offer. We have children who are in placement and their carers need a break so respite care can be to support the broader community, but it also can be used to support internal placements.”
Other options include babysitting, transport support or daytime support with volunteers cur-
Social media age cap discussion
By Gabriella Vukman
Discussion surrounding a new age cap for social media has erupted since the Albanese Government’s announcement on Tuesday 10 September.
The proposed legislation is scheduled to be discussed later this year.
Running off the back of South Australian Premier Peter Malinuaska’s drive to disallow children under the age of 14 from using social media, an age limit for the proposed federal legislation has not yet been decided.
In response to growing concerns for Australia’s youth, this proposed social media cap aims to address children’s mental health, reduce social harm and promote real world experience.
In a government-issued media release on the Prime Minister’s official website, Prime Minister Albanese said, “We know social media is causing social harm, and it is taking kids away from real friends and real experiences.”
“Australian young people deserve better and I stand with them and with all Australian parents in protecting our kids. The safety and mental and physical health of our young people is paramount,” he said.
“We’re supporting parents and keeping kids safe by taking this action, because enough is enough.”
The legislation will be informed by a $6.5 million age assurance trial in which various implementation approaches for the policy will be tested.
Having opposed legislation for a trial of age verification technology in November, the Federal Government has announced that the age limit for the social media ban will not be determined until its trial of age verification technology has concluded.
“I believe it is important we have safeguards around social media use. Having a legislated age limit will give parents more authority to say no and enforce healthy boundaries for their children,” Casey MP Aaron Violi said.
“As a father, it is important to me that we do everything we can to keep our children safe from online harm.
“Facebook, Instagram and TikTok have age limits of 13 – but we know children are getting on these platforms much younger to the detriment of their own mental health. The time for relying on tech companies to enforce age limits is over.”
The age cap legislation has been informed by several reports such as a 276-page document by former High Court chief justice Robert French that posits methods through which social media companies can be made to receive consent from parents for users under the age of 16.
A submission on social media by the mental health organisations Beyond Blue, ReachOut and Black Dog also set out a variety of recommendations for new policy.
These included policies that compel social media platforms to work according to safety-bydesign principles, transparency and user control in terms of algorithms, co-designed policy
rently filling some of these care needs.
Some of the harder demographics to place in care, Tarni said, are sibling groups and children with disability of all degrees.
“Especially groups of three adolescents, is it always an area that we’re really keen to broaden our carer pool for,” she said.
“There’s a high representation of disability in children and young people that come into care, and that’s quite a broad range of disability. So children with even just learning needs and things like that, that can be quite a big representation as well that we’re seeing.”
Ensuring that foster care worked for their family, Janine and Ian said the support of Anglicare Victoria to offer different forms of care over the years helped an incredible amount.
Tarni said when families can make foster care suitable for them, not only does it provide a better outcome to young people but it means the success rate of carers staying in the system is higher.
“Some people make a career of it, and that’s fantastic, but equally fantastic is if someone provides care for five years,” she said.
“In the case of Janine and Ian, they’ve worked it around their family. The children they’ve taken into their care have really been considered as good matches with where their family is at over the years.
“That has been the key to success for people that make fostering a very long term commitment is that they work with where they’re at and where their family’s at as well.”
Janine said not only has the experience of foster care provided many young people with a home but it has taught her own children “to be humble and empathetic and understanding of how people end up in circumstances beyond their control”.
As words of encouragement to anyone out there thinking about becoming a foster carer, Janine said her search for happiness came in the form of purpose, in giving hope and home to others.
“I would say that if you enjoy having children in your life, in any capacity, and you feel that you have something to offer, even one child, give it a go,” Janine said.
“I just feel that I’m a different person for having these kids in my life. I just think life would have been really boring if I hadn’t become a foster carer and had these extra children in my life.
“During this time, I think I’ve learned a lot about myself, about the sort of person I am and can be, and if nothing else, I’ve just made such a difference to these kids. There’s no doubt about that.”
measures, verification of health content on platforms and funding for more research into the links between social media and mental health.
“Never before has a generation had a concerning volume of sexually explicit, violent and age-inappropriate content at their fingertips,”
Mr Violi said.
“In Parliament, I helped establish the Parliamentary Friends of Youth Mental health to address the increase in poor mental health among young people. Through this work, I have seen countless research that shows social media use releases dopamine, which leads to addiction.
“From there we see a range of negative flowon effects like poor body image, comparison, validation seeking, neglecting real life activities, concentration impairment and disturbed sleep, among others. That’s why the Coalition is committed to introducing age verification to protect our kids online.”
Despite worries surrounding the impacts of social media on mental health, some experts fear that a ban may have negative effects on Australia’s youth.
Researcher at the University of Melbourne’s Orygen Centre for Youth Mental Health and PhD Candidate at Monash University Charlie Cooper is concerned about the ability for the proposed social media age cap to cut off important mental health support avenues.
“Social media can play a really important role for young people and if we can harness the benefits and minimise the harms, there is potential to use these platforms for good,” Mr
Cooper said.
“We know that young people are using social media in helpful ways to engage with mental health-related help seeking or suicide prevention material that is educational in nature.
“We know that for many young people, the first step to accessing the mental health system, particularly at the moment when the system is completely overstretched and there are long waitlists, many young people are turning to social media because they can’t access face to face or professional support.”
Mr Cooper also emphasised that it is important to look at context and understand that social media is one contributor among an array of factors that affect youth mental health.
“It is important to keep in mind that social media is a context where really positive things happen,” Mr Cooper said.
“There are so many social trends that are impacting the mental health of young people such as the cost of living crisis, intergenerational inequality, employment insecurity, climate change and housing affordability, it’s important that we don’t look at social media in isolation.
“All of these things together with social media are having an impact on young people’s social wellbeing.”
Mount Evelyn couple Janine and Ian have been foster carers for over 30 years. (Supplied)
SHEDFEST 2024
Uncork the best of YV wines
Shedfest is returning, bigger and better than ever!
Mark your calendars for Saturday and Sunday, October 12 and 13, and head to the beautiful Yarra Valley for two days of wine tastings, live music, delicious food, and stunning scenery across fourteen family-run wineries.
This year, the festival welcomes two new wineries, Yileena Park and Helen’s Hill Estate, while Six Acres and Seville Estate are making their longawaited return after several years. They will be joined by a stellar lineup of wineries, including Billanook Estate, Boat O’Craigo, Kellybrook, Seville Hill, Soumah, Sutherland Estate, Steels Gate, Tokar Estate, Whispering Hills, and Yering Farm
To make the festival accessible to everyone, the Yarra Valley Smaller Wineries Association has introduced a flat-rate entry ticket of $35. This ticket grants you access to tastings at all participating wineries, valid for one or both days of the event.
As always, a mouth-watering selection of dishes, all priced under $25, will be available at each winery. Expect everything from Bahn Mi, pizzas, and cheese platters to classic Italian dishes and hearty burgers. Most wineries will also offer options for kids and those with special dietary requirements.
Wine lovers can purchase glasses and bottles throughout the festival, and there will be plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, including petting zoos, live music, classic car displays, lawn games, and even frozen cocktails! Exclusive Shedfest cellar-door specials will also be available for this weekend only.
Gather your friends, family, and even your dogs (many venues are dog-friendly!) for a fun and affordable weekend exploring boutique, family-owned wineries.
Tickets are on sale now at shedfest.com.au.
Use the code “EARLYBIRD” for 10 per cent off until the end of September.
Grab a group of friends and head to the Yarra Valley for delicious food and wine pairings. (Supplied) The wineries offer dog friendly venues and picnic spaces, so pull up a rug and relax.
Taste the best of the boutique Yarra Valley wineries.
SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN Spring into girls’ only fun
Looking for a fun and rewarding way to keep girls active and engaged during the school holidays?
Look no further! Girl Guides Victoria is offering two single-day holiday programs in Lilydale and Mooroolbark on 25 and 26 September — DIY Adventure and Athlete Adventure. These programs are designed to get seven to 14-year-olds moving, learning new skills, and sharing unforgettable moments with new friends.
For girls who love to craft and create, DIY Adventure, held 25 September in Lilydale, offers a special blend of creative, practical and ecofriendly activities. Open to girls aged nine to 14, participants will spend the day woodworking, wool crafting, and upcycling. They’ll also get to make and take home their own fidget toys and shrinky keyrings! Secure your child’s spot and watch them craft, create and customise their way to new skills and creative fulfilment!
For girls aged seven to 12 with energy to burn, Athlete Adventure, held fittingly on 26 September, just before AFL Grand Final Eve, is the perfect way to kick off the holidays! Participants will gather in Mooroolbark where they’ll get into the AFL spirit with a footy clinic, try out barefoot bowls at Mooroolbark Bowls Club, and enjoy a cricket clinic run by Mooroolbark Cricket Club. They’ll even take part in the ever-amusing Potato Olympics, enhancing their physical and numerical skills while having a blast.
Both programs offer a day of excitement and personal growth, offering unique opportunities for girls to explore their interests and build new skills in a friendly, supportive, and oh-so-fun environment. Spots are limited and selling fast–book today to give your child a school holiday adventure they’ll remember for years to come: bit. ly/ggvholidayprogram.
Girl Guides Victoria Adventure Days are open to all girls aged seven to 14, not just current Girl Guides. Book in now to join all the Girl Guide school holiday fun
in Lilydale and Mooroolbark. (Supplied)
SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN Go wild and visit the zoo
On a stunning 12 ha property with sweeping views to Mt Buller and beyond is a very special place where Dr Doolittle dreams of talking to the animals regularly come true.
A fabulous day out for the whole family, and one of the best kept secrets of Victoria’s High Country, the Mansfield Zoo is home to all kinds of Australian and exotic animals.
Once inside the gates, discover a surprising and magical place where kids can interact with and hand feed a large variety of animals like the kangaroos and deer and guinea pigs that roam freely.
The zoo is also home to a colony of Meerkats as well as Marmosets and Capuchin monkeys, llamas and alpacas, wombats, a variety of birds including red tail black cockatoos and peacocks, water buffalo and antelope.
There are also three magnificent African lions, including two, rare white lions (of only 100 in the world!), and visitors of all ages can experience the thrill of being up close to these majestic creatures on a daily feeding tour of these as well as other animals at the zoo.
It’s an ideal place for large family gatherings with lovely, undercover places to picnic and barbecue. And for a truly unique family experience, there are gorgeous campsites to spend the whole night under the stars and literally wake up to the sounds of the jungle.
Mansfield Zoo’s Bronwyn and Dave and their dedicated team welcome visitors every day from 10am to 6pm, except for Christmas Day. It’s a
perfect way to introduce children to the beauty and diversity of the animal kingdom in a safe, relaxed and picturesque environment. Come and meet the meerkats at Mansfield Zoo.
Meet the White Fallow Deer on your visit to the zoo. (Supplied)
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
KILSYTH Woolworths SupermarketCanterbury Road Kilsyth
KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette Unit 7/87 Colchester Road
LILYDALE Aaron Violi MP Office 110 Main Street
LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC33-45 Hutchinson Street
LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC51-59 Anderson Street
LILYDALE Woolworths SupermarketMarketplace, 33 Hutchinson Street
LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale VillageCastella Street & Maroondah Highway
LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre7 Hardy Street
LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre1 Jarlo Drive
LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station473 Maroondah Highway
LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale346 Main Street
LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths31 Hutchinson Street
LILYDALE BP Service Station87 Warburton Highway
LILYDALE Shell Service Station469 Maroondah Highway
LILYDALE 7 - Eleven LilydaleCnr Maroondah Highway & Cave Hill Road
LILYDALE Coles Express469 Maroondah Highway
LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe251 Main Street
LILYDALE Round Bird Can't Fly170 Main Street
LILYDALE The Lilydale General110 Beresford Road
LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery96 Main Street
LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe178 Main Street
LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe222 Main Street
LILYDALE Gracious GraceCastella Street
LILYDALE Melba Coffee House33-45 Hutchinson Street
LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies7/75 Cave Hill Road
LILYDALE Point of View CafeLilydale Lakeside - Jarlo Drive
LILYDALE Freda's Cafe2 Clarke Street
LILYDALE Barry Plant Real Estate88 Main Street
LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate164 Main Street
LILYDALE Hello Harry245 Main Street
LILYDALE Noel Jones Real Estate 281 Main Street
LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate111-113 Main Street
LILYDALE Grubs Up1 Industrial Park Drive
LILYDALE Mc Donalds RestaurantMaroondah Highway
LILYDALE Olinda Creek HotelMaroondah Hwy
LILYDALE Crown Hotel Maroondah Hwy
LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street
MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road
MONTROSE IGA Supermarket Mt Dandenong Road
MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road
MOUNT EVELYN 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
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
Strong winds in the words
By Maria Millers
An awful tempest mashed the air, The clouds were gaunt and few; A black, as of a spectre’s cloak, Hid heaven and earth from view.
Emily Dickinson Today as I write the sun is shining, there is no wind and the trees are still.
But this was not so two weeks ago.
Over the last few weeks we have experienced being buffeted by windstorms, lightning hail and rain, at times all at once.
Hopefully, we are moving into more settled weather but then unpredictable weather is part and parcel of spring, at least in our neck of the woods. Even so, recurring severe storm activity appears to be happening more often and with greater intensity.
For some this signals climate change due to human activity.as the primary cause of extreme weather events.For others this is just natural climate variability and not much we can do other than to adapt.
Though she doesn’t mention winds, Dorothea Makellar describes our country as ‘a wilful lavish land.’
A land of ‘droughts and flooding rains.’ There is however no mention of destructive winds.
The last few weeks have certainly been trying as ferocious winds with gusts equivalent to a category two tropical cyclone, accompanied by severe thunderstorms caused widespread damage across Victoria and elsewhere.
And it is the howling winds that have so unsettled people.
We can hear and feel and see the destructive effects of wind but we cannot see or describe what wind looks like. It is invisible but can dominate the natural world, turning a familiar landscape into something wild and chaotic.
The wind’s invisibility only heightens its menace and mystery.
Christina Rosetti captures this mysterious, invisible nature of wind:
Who has seen the wind?
Neither I nor you.
But when the leaves hang trembling, The wind is passing through.
Who has seen the wind?
Neither you nor I.
But when the trees bow down their heads, The wind is passing by.
Many would quickly point out that it did not merely ‘pass by’ but thundered by!
The lived experiences of those who have been impacted by these recent storms have been shared on our screens and phones.
We have seen property damage, with entire sheds blown over, smashed fences and flattened gardens, impassable roads with fallen trees, downed power lines and damaged switches leading to inevitable power outages.
All experienced against a background of howling winds.
tragic accidents waiting to happen.
Hopefully, those responsible will do an inventory of the possible future danger they pose to passing traffic and act accordingly.
We all have within us a primal response to booming thunder and crackling lightning and howling winds so it’s not surprising that they often bring out powerful emotions, ranging from excitement to fear and not just in children but also in adults and the elderly, particularly those living alone.
Ask any school teacher and they will tell you that classrooms can become unruly on windy days as children tend to become more excitable, restless, or irritable.
But as Adrienne Rich advises, we have to learn to accept the vagaries of weather particularly when living in what she calls ’troubled regions.’
I draw the curtains as the sky goes black
And set a match to candles sheathed in glass Against the keyhole draught, the insistent whine
Of weather through the unsealed aperture. This is our sole defence against the season; These are the things we have learned to do Who live in troubled regions.
As a lover of summer fruits I have been concerned that the blossoms would have been blown off the trees before the fruit had time to set.
It seems that speaking to growers of cherries and other stone fruits they have escaped being damaged and we can look forward to the season starting in November.
Maybe we have to accept that we may be living with these extreme weather manifestations more and more often.
And if so how can we anticipate and protect ourselves?
How should we mitigate against these severe events causing disruption, destruction and injuries?
Meanwhile there are weeks of spring ahead of us to be enjoyed.
Entries for the Woorilla Poetry Prize close on 30 September.
Only two weeks remaining for entries to the Woorilla Poetry Prize 2024.
Please visit woorilla.org.au
Wind
Gwendolyn Bennett
The wind was a care-free soul
That broke the chains of earth, And strode for a moment across the land
With the wild halloo of his mirth.
He little cared that he ripped up trees,
That houses fell at his hand,
That his step broke calm on the breast of seas,
The storms cut a swathe through huge areas of Victoria. The aftermath of strong winds was visible in places like the Mornington Peninsula with beach boxes at Mornington’s Mills Beach upended and severely damaged.
In the Dandenongs and surrounds we are left with the worrying thoughts that many of the shallow rooted gums clinging precariously to embankments on the sides of busy roads could be
That his feet stirred clouds of sand.
But when he had had his little joke,
Had shouted and laughed and sung, When the trees were scarred, their branches broke,
And their foliage aching hung,
He crept to his cave with a stealthy tread,
With rain-filled eyes and low-bowed head.
Four big gum trees fell on Healesville-Kinglake Road on Monday 2 September because of the strong wind. (Dongyun Kwon: 429024)
Students set standards
By Mikayla van Loon
With sustainability at the forefront of a year-long project, Lilydale Heights College (LHC) students finally saw their work come to fruition with the installation of nest boxes at Old Pound Reserve.
The Year 12 VCE Vocational Major students used their community project to enhance local biodiversity because of habitat loss from urban development, fires and competition from invasive species.
Humanities, science and vocational education teacher Tania Lim said the school’s values are very much based on a foundation of sustainability which inspired the students in choosing such a project.
“LHC’s sustainability identity is embedded in the curriculum across the entire school at all year levels. Awareness of environmental issues and advocacy for a healthy planet become second nature to most of the students by the time they reach Year 12,” she said.
“Students brainstormed ideas using examples of activities undertaken by previous year levels and at different schools and unanimously voted for this project when the idea was presented to them.”
Aiming to re-establish a native wildlife corridor at Old Pound Reserve, just across the road from the school, the nest boxes catered for parrots and small-marsupials.
On Tuesday 10 September, students not only presented their work to Yarra Ranges Council mayor Sophie Todorov, bushland management officer Paul Slinger, college principal Shane Kruger, teachers and peers but also watched on as the nest boxes were installed.
Mayor Todorov said she was “very impressed” with the presentations and project work the students undertook all to improve biodiversity in the Yarra Ranges.
“A lot of research and effort went into the carefully assembled nesting boxes, which will safely house local fauna. It was satisfying to join students and staff at the Old Pound Reserve as the first two nest boxes were installed,” she said.
Ms Lim said while the proximity to the school made the Reserve an ideal location, the school’s
sustainability leaders had also been in consultation with the council about collaborating on projects.
“The Old Pound Reserve was only established in the 1990s, having been used as a showground and a municipal pound prior to that,” she said.
“This has meant that there was not much canopy or old-growth trees in the reserve, and there are a lot of weeds instead of native shrubs and bushes.
“The installation of boxes at the Reserve is exciting because it provides opportunities for the community to collect biodiversity data about an area that does not currently appear to have data available.”
From the practical skills of cutting the timber to the communication skills of liaising with external sources like the council, Ms Lim said it was incredible to watch the students grow.
“It has been absolutely fantastic to see the personal growth in the students, in just a short period of time. You could see the pride in their faces as they showed off their work during the gallery walk,” she said.
“Some students started the unit with a very definite ‘I will not be talking to anyone or making a presentation’, and by the end of the unit, stood up in front of the mayor, school principal and a room full of their peers and teachers and spoke confidently and unscripted, about the project.”
This project won’t end with the Year 12s either, with the older students handing over the reins to two younger members of the sustainability club who will continue to look after the Reserve.
“The next step for students involved will be to monitor the boxes to see if they get used,” Ms Lim said.
“While waiting for this to happen, students aim to clean up the Old Pound Reserve, and plant more native species of plants at the school and at the reserve to create a sort of green corridor between the two areas.”
A few nesting boxes remain at the school, which Ms Lim said are available for the community to acquire for a donation to the LHC sustainability club’s programs.
The club is also seeking “donations of durable native groundcovers” to plant in the future.
The students handed over the finished nest boxes to Luke Chamarette from Treexpertise to install. (Supplied)
The students learnt the practical skills of sawing the wooden materials to the right size.
Yarra Ranges Council mayor Sophie Todorov speaking with students about small gliders.
Yarra Ranges Council mayor Sophie Todorov hearing about the nest box design.
Putting all the cut pieces together was a two person job at times.
Yarra Ranges Council’s Bushland Management Officer Paul Slinger sat down with mayor Sophie Todorov and principal Shane Kruger.
Students presented their work and project to mayor Sophie Todorov, school principal Shane Kruger, teachers and peers on Tuesday 10 September.
Once assembled, the boxes required painting.
The Treexpertise arborists donated their services for the students’ project, installing a parrot and a small-marsupial nest box.
Lilydale Heights College principal Shane Kruger was very impressed with the quality of work and skill of his students.
NEWS From hobby to exhibition
By Dongyun Kwon
A local has added one more title ‘artist’ in his job list.
Yarra Ranges deputy mayor David Eastham, who has spent his whole life in the Yarra Valley, has successfully launched an exhibition Shooting the Black Dog for the entire month of September. The exhibition showcases his photographic journey as well as his new hobby of painting. Eastham said the big part of the reason that he put this exhibition on was to prove to himself that he could do it.
“When I first started doing photography a few years ago, I never would have thought that I’d do an exhibition,” he said.
“Hopefully, by putting the exhibition on, people can see that there are options out there to help with mental health, and you just have to find what that thing is for you.
“The other thing is when people come in and look at the images, most of the people see a bit about my story because I’ve got my story written up around, and a lot of the time, it does lead to a conversation around mental health.
“It is important because I think the more people that are talking about mental health, the better.”
In the exhibition, there is a collection of over 30 images and paintings about wildlife and nature.
The photographer said most of them were taken locally but there are some which were taken from overseas.
“A lot are taken from within the Yarra Valley or the Mount Dandenong area,” Eastham said.
“I’ve got a number of images that are from Ireland because my wife is Irish and I go to Ireland quite a fair bit and also images that were taken from a recent trip to Canada over to the Rockies.
“On top of the images, I also have a number of
paintings that are inspired by photos that I’ve taken but obviously the colours are a little bit exaggerated from what you’d see out in the wild.”
Eastham’s painting journey started about a year ago and his passion for wildlife and nature photography has gone over into his paintings.
“I was always interested in painting but hadn’t had the real passion and commitment to get into it,” the artist said.
“About 12 months ago, when I wasn’t feeling that passionate to go out and take photos, I decided to embrace painting and grabbed a bunch of essential materials and started painting.”
The remarkable achiever, not only in his professional career but also in his hobby, has a special behind story regarding the reason he has gotten into photography.
Eastham was in his late 20s with a career rapidly on the rise when he experienced a mental breakdown out of the blue. Eastham said he started his hobby of photography to deal with his mental breakdown.
“A number of years ago, I had a pretty mental breakdown and ended up with severe depression and anxiety, and I went through the traditional recovery process like medication, regular visits to a psychologist,” he said.
“But after about a year or two of that, for me, I just knew that I wanted to do something else other than just relying on medication and psychologists.
“So I looked into what was beneficial to mental health, and a lot of people and research were pointing towards taking up a hobby and something creative.
Meet Your Local Principal
The reason Eastham chose photography as a new hobby was because he was inspired by one of his friends who was a good photographer.
“For the first few months, I pretty much just grabbed my camera and I’d walk around in the bush and take photos of wildlife and nature,” the photographer said.
“After a while, I realised my mental health was improving a lot.”
His passion led him to write a book Shooting the Black Dog: How the Art of Photography Can Improve Your Mental Health and Wellbeing, which introduces his own experience coping with mental breakdowns to help people who are struggling as well as provide tips for and raise awareness around preventative measures for mental breakdowns.
“I’ve got a science background, and I started wondering why is it that photography has been so important,” Eastham said.
“I hope my story can serve as a bit of inspiration for people who are struggling.”
Eastham’s exhibition has been held at the Warburton Waterwheel with free entry. Through his exhibition, the artist would like to share messages with people who are in their dark days at the moment. Eastham said even though you might be going through some dark days, there can be a light at the end of the tunnel.
“To invest in yourself and put yourself first, if need be, try to find something that inspires you and that you enjoy doing, replenishes your batteries and gives you energy,” he said.
“Make some time for that and prioritise yourself.
“If anyone’s out there thinking of a friend who might be struggling, I’d encourage you to reach out and check in with them.”
It is a privilege to have joined Ghilgai this year as Principal. Having grown up in Steiner education myself, I am passionate about the benefits that this education provides for the children and families we serve. Ghilgai is an intentionally small Prep-to-6 school community of around 100 students. We offer a well-rounded education delivered by our dedicated and highly skilled teachers. Along with our specialist programs in music, handwork, movement and language, we have a strong emphasis on building the solid academic foundations that enable a child to fulfil their potential throughout their lives. We are known as a vibrant and sustainable community that fosters goodwill and inclusion. We provide an environment where every child and every family is seen, known and valued – and I believe that this human connection is what our children need today more than ever. If Steiner education is something that you are curious to know more about, you are welcome to give us a call to arrange a personalised tour. We would love to hear from you.
I’m Angela Glennie and it is my honour to be the principal of St Mary’s Primary School. I use the word ‘honour’ because I value the partnership between parents and school that develops when together, we support your child on their educational journey. I believe in this wonderful school so much so that my own children came here! (Many, many years ago). Set on 17 acres of bushland, St. Mary’s Catholic School has served the local and wider community for over 40 years. In close partnership with the St. Mary’s Parish Community, we provide meaningful education, connection, service and opportunity for all community members through our shared values, belief and faith. With research and evidence-based approaches to Teaching and Learning, highly skilled staff and our School Vision, founded in the gospel message “Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful and endures”, we provide a richness that connects the gospel values to education by underpinning the manner in which we teach, learn and interact.
I encourage you to contact us, so that together we may share your child’s primary school journey; exploring, nurturing and supporting them as they reach their educational, emotional, social and faith potential.
9761 8369
Angela Glennie Principal
Annabel Brown - Principal
David Eastham is inviting locals to his exhibition. (Dongyun Kwon: 431739)
Working for Casey From my From
We live in such a strong community here in Casey. Like all communities, we face our challenges, but our history of collaboration gives me confidence that we can build an even stronger future for our region.Over the past two years, I have spent countless hours doorknocking, calling, and meeting with residents to hear what matters most to you. From these conversations, I know locals are fed up with poor local roads. Labor ripped funding from our community that impacted over 450 roads that were due to be sealed.
This program was initially funded under the former Liberal Government, and I have spent the past two years advocating for that funding to be reinstated. We have already shown Labor that we won’t accept their cuts to local road projects.
Our community advocacy saved the Maroondah Highway and Killara Road intersection upgrade and the Montrose roundabout upgrade from Labor’s chopping block.
Burrinja Theatre
Kate Miller-Heidke Catching Diamonds Tour 2024.
Kate Miller-Heidke is an award -winning singer-songwriter who traverses the worlds of folk pop, opera and musical theatre.
my
desk
Federal Member for Casey
I’m not going to back down until we get the safer, sealed roads we deserve here in Casey.
Another issue I hear from locals is the need for better health and mental health services. Last week was R U OK Day, but the reality is, many people in our community aren’t OK.
Labor’s decision to slash Medicare-subsidised mental health sessions from 20 to just 10 has left many people without adequate support.
I am proud that the Liberals are committed to reinstating the full 20 sessions so all Australians can get the support they deserve.
We also have a plan to attract more GPs. Our plan is about getting more GPs out into rural and regional areas like Casey.
When I was at Kallista Market last weekend, it was evident locals also want to see improved telecommunications.The former Coalition government funded and delivered towers across the Yarra Ranges in East Warburton, McMahons Creek, Reefton, Mt Evelyn, Steels Creek, and two in Chum Creek. I also committed to towers in Silvan and Menzies Creek at the last election, which are in planning stages.
Connectivity is above politics – it’s about saving lives in emergencies. .
As always, if there is anything I can assist with, please do not hesitate to get in touch at Aaron.Violi.
MP@aph.gov.au
Local entertainments well worth seeing Kemp’s curtain call
She has performed on stages as varied as the Grannd Ole Opry in Nashville, Coachella, the New York Metropolitan Opera, the Eurovision Song Contest, the Sydney Opera house and the Roebuck Bay Hotel Broome.
And now after long months locked away writing sings, she’s hitting the road to play in dozens of beautiful theatres around Australia.
Kate will be playing her greatest hits and most beloved pop songs as well as performing tracks from her original musicals Muriel’s Wedding the Musical and the new Bananaland, some unexpected covers, taking requests, and telling stories from across her varied career.
Excitingly she’ll be debuting new material from her forthcoming 6th studio album, which will dive deep into the genre of folk.
Season: Saturday 21 September. At 7.30pm. 1812 Theatre
The Laramie Project
Matthew Shepard, an openly gay college student was tied to a fence post and brutally murdered in a prairie outside Laramie, Wyoming in 1998 because if his sexually identity.
Shepard’s murder is one of the most wellknown hate crimes in recent American history.
For The Laramie Project the Tectonic Theatre Project travelled to Laramie just four weeks after Shepard’s death, with the intent of creating a theatrical portrait of a town coming to grips with hate-fuelled violence. Over the course of a year and a half, the group interviewed over 299 people, collecting a wide array of different perspective on the crime.
The dialogue and monologue that comprise The Laramie Project are taken from these interviews, along with news reports, courtroom transcripts, and journal entries.
Season: 3 – 26 October. Bookings: 9758 3964. Nova Music Theatre
Brigadoon
The story is one of fantasy, hoe faith, love and destiny. Teo Americans on a hunting trip to Scotland find themselves lost in the forest.
They hear singing from a nearby village which is not shown on their map.
They find the village of Brigadoon only after a while to find why it is not on the map. It only appears for one day every century.
They attend the fair and are amazed to see the dancing, singing and all that goes on in a Scottish fair.
The dancing and singing certainly stirred up the audience and your reviewer suspects that there were many Scotsmen and or of Scottish descent in the audience.
Tommy, the American, was played by Joshua Houston. An excellent performer not only a good actor but an accomplished singer.
His scenes with Fiona were a delight. Fiona, the girl who fell in love with Tommy was played by Rafaela Cleeve Gerkens.
A wonderful performance in acting plus the joy of a delightful voice on singing.
A wedding was planned for the evening and the bridegroom , Charlie Dalrymple was played by Matt Jakowenko who gave a stirling performance both as an actor and singer.
The Bride for Charlie was Jean MacLaren, a lovely actor and a great singer.
Tommy’s friend Jeff was portrayed by Toby Thornton.
A good balance to Joshua and a positive performance.
A very large cast which included Scottish Highland Dancers, Isla MacDonald, Aysha Ordenes, Lily Rakete, and Tristan Wainwright.
As professional highland dancers they certainly added to the production.
A wonderful evening of theatre and Nova Music theatre are to be congratulated for bringing such a high standard of theatre to the local stge.
Victorian Opera Sweeney Todd – The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. A story of a barber who was sent to Botany Bay by a judge who wanted his young wife.
He escaped and returned to England to get his revenge.
It was certainly a change to see a musical sung by opera singers.
Sweeney Todd was portrayed by Ben Mingay, an excellent performance both in acting with the qualities of a bass-baritone adding to the feel of such a character. Mrs Lovatt, his partner in crime, was played by Antoinette Halloran.
Halloran was a great partner to Mingay and gave a great performance in the role. Also, her wonderful voice added to the production.
Anthony Hope, Sweeney’s young friend who saved him from the sea, was played by Lachlan Lawton.
A great performance not only in acting but also a good voice. His future wife and daughter if Sweeney Todd, Joahnna, was played by Pntabona whose combined voices had no trouble in singing the most difficult piece.
The evil judge Turpin was given an outstanding performance by Adrian Tamburinin. Very good acting, with a voice filled with menace.
The beadle played by Kanen Breen came across as the evil sidekick to Judge Turpin.
A show not to be missed but only suitable for adults as it covers gruesome murders, ana asylum with e inmates, violence, and cannibalism.
Speaking of a great movie
Speak No Evil
Starring James McAvoy, Mackenzie Davis and Aisling Franciosi MA15+
4.5/5
Speak No Evil is a supremely suspenseful psychological horror film based on a 2022 Danish film of the same name.
While on vacation, Louise (Mackenzie Davis), her husband Ben (Scoot McNairy) and their daughter Agnes (Alix West Lefler) come to stay at the country estate of their new friends Paddy (James McAvoy) and Ciara (Aisling Franciosi), but their stay soon turns sinister.
Speak No Evil is a riveting slow-burn: you share the guest family’s unease around their intense, subtly off hosts, and this unease steadily evolves into dread through a string of pushed boundaries, microaggressions and cleverly-planted clues.
McAvoy joins Josh Hartnett from Trap with another disturbing portrayal of an affable family man with rage seething beneath the surface (and just as Chris Pine based his character in Don’t Worry Darling on Jordan Peterson, McAvoy based his persona in Speak No Evil on professional misogynist Andrew Tate).
Speak No Evil explores domineering masculinity and how women are often pressured to put up with bad situations. Davis is a figure of warmth and steely common sense as Louise, Ben ignores or even leans into Paddy’s inappropriate behaviour, and Franciosi is like the dark version of a pick-me girl as Ciara: playing along with Paddy to survive. Lefler and Dan Hough both deliver remarkable performances as the respective couples’ children.
Speak No Evil has beautiful rural cinematography, an eerie score and builds to an incredibly stressful final act, which has some brilliant misdirects and shades of Straw Dogs and especially The Shining.
Speaking of cinematography, Speak No Evil holds the camera refreshingly still and steady, which is rare in modern cinema.
A clever, superbly-paced characterdriven horror film, Speak No Evil is playing in most Victorian cinemas.
Lizzie James is the Regional Literacy Officer at Your Library (formerly Eastern Regional Libraries).
Here is her introduction to the “Leap into Literacy” program for adults who would like support with reading, writing or numeracy.
Leap into literacy at libraries PASSION FOR PROSE
In partnership with Ferntree Gully-based Mountain District Learning Centre, the “Leap into Literacy” program trains volunteers in various aspects of adult learning and literacy.
Each volunteer is then matched with an adult learner, and they meet for an hour each week to work on the learner’s specific foundational literacy goals.
“We don’t have a set curriculum or prescribe to any set literacy educational theories,” James said.
“The program is completely free, and we don’t have any requirements for learners (e.g. visa status) other than the desire to improve their foundational literacy.”
As James explains, the 1:1 tutoring program aims to help adult learners reach “functionally literate”, which means “they can read and write
WITH CHRISTINE SUN
to cope with everyday life, including completing forms, understanding train timetables, helping their young children with their school reading, etc”.
James cites the OECD’s Program for the International Assessment for Adult Competencies (PIAAC).
For Your Library’s other literacy support service, see: yourlibrary.com.au/literacy-supportservices/
CARTOON
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 Annoyers (5)
4 Settler (9)
9 Formula (7)
10 People who speak (7)
11 One who evens the score (7)
12 Greek conception of afterlife (7)
13 Arrived at a judgement (9)
15 Relating to audio equipment (2-2)
17 Declare to be true (4)
19 Not here (9)
22 Type of paint (7)
25 Wed (7)
26 Paraguayan monetary unit (7)
27 Whenever you like (7)
28 Conglomeration of fabric scraps (9)
29 Hankerings (5)
DOWN
1 Very small amount (8)
2 Irish speakeasy (7)
3 One who makes less progress than others (9)
4 One half of Oxbridge (9)
5 Supple (5)
6 ‘Not on your –!’ (5)
7 Local law enforcer (7)
8 Recommence (6)
14 Go ashore (9)
15 Common greeting question (3,3,3)
16 Indecency (8)
18 Green (7)
20 Preparing writing for publication (7)
21 End a phone call (4,2)
23 Indisposed (5)
24 Egyptian capital (5)
A MARVELLOUS AND MAGICAL MUDBRICK HOME
A MARVELLOUS AND MAGICAL HOME
EXPERIENCE the warmth and tranquillity of country living at 17 Anderson Road, where rustic charm meets modern convenience in this beautifully crafted mudbrick home. Nestled on a generous 4047sqm block, this two-storey sanctuary is a true reflection of timeless design, offering a haven for family life and connection with nature.
As you step inside, the inviting atmosphere is immediately apparent. Soaring ceilings and spacious, open-plan living areas create a welcoming space for family gatherings and quiet moments alike. The heart of the home is the gourmet kitchen, with its rich jarrah benchtop and roomy walk-in pantry, opening into a sunlit living area where loved ones can come together. The use of recycled ironbark timber posts throughout adds a rustic, historic touch that perfectly complements the home’s contemporary style.
With four comfortable bedrooms and a dedicated study, there’s plenty of room for everyone. Two expansive living areas and two bathrooms, along with a handy third toilet, ensure that family life flows with ease. The newly installed ducted reverse cycle heating and cooling system keeps the home cozy
in winter and cool in summer, making it a comfortable retreat year-round.
Step outside, and you’ll find a lush, fully fenced garden—a true sanctuary where fruit trees thrive, and a flourishing veggie patch invites you to enjoy the fruits of your labour.
Imagine the kids playing freely, and your pets exploring the open space. The property also features a double carport, separate double garage, and a workshop, offering plenty of space for hobbies, crafts, and storage. Tradespeople will delight with the easy access to the rear yard with plenty of parking areas.
The rear of the property opens to beautiful views, where the serene landscape invites you to pause, relax, and soak in the beauty of your surroundings. Located just a short drive from Healesville, this home offers the perfect blend of peaceful country living and convenient access to all the essentials.
17 Anderson Road isn’t just a house; it’s a place to create memories, a retreat that celebrates the beauty of natural materials, and a rare opportunity to embrace a simpler, more fulfilling way of life. Whether you’re seeking a tree change or a place to build your family’s future, this home is ready to welcome you.
STYLISH, CENTRAL, SPACIOUS AND VIEWS
BOASTING beautiful vista views, a surplus of living space, and a premier position only 500m from Upwey township, this sophisticated family residence offers a truly outstanding lifestyle.
Poised atop a 1,559sqm (approx.) allotment with sealed drive, expansive workshop, covered parking, and impressive outdoor entertaining areas, this unique property has it all.
The interior of this character-filled home is enriched with high ceilings, large windows, polished timber floors, and leadlight accents. The primary level is hugged by wrap-around covered and open decking to make it ideal for entertaining. At its heart of the gorgeous galley kitchen with beautiful benchtops and lovely gas range. Framed by a formal lounge with wood fire and ceiling roses as well as a conservatory-style meals area and versatile dining/sitting room, this is a home you can grow into. Add to this a sprawling upper level living area with French windows to a Juliet balcony that soaks up the spectacular outlooks, and every member of the family
will find their own special place to relax and unwind.
Equally impressive are the 4 bedrooms with built-in robes including the main bedroom with stylish ensuite. The family bathroom features a modern soaking tub and floating vanity and the laundry is generously proportioned. Gas ducted heating, split system heating/cooling, and external blinds ensure comfort in every season.
Designed for discerning buyers who want a precise balance of location and liveablity, this property is a rare find. Treat yourself to a tour today.
Beautiful 1,559sqm (approx.) property with spectacular views
Large character-filled home with wraparound decking
• Versatile living areas including a generous lounge with wood fire
• Gorgeous galley kitchen with quality appliances
- Modern family bathroom, impressive underhouse storage, and large workshop.
EXQUISITE ENTERTAINER WITH GREAT OUTLOOKS
BY blending sumptuous natural materials, superb attention to detail, and spectacular vista views, this incredible family home is a success in every way. Designed for indooroutdoor living and entertaining in style, this dwelling catapults traditional Hills living to a new level of comfort.
The peaceful no-through road position near Glenfern Valley Bushland Reserve, Upwey and Upper Ferntree Gully transport and schools, and easy freeway access via Wellington Road is just one of the luxuries of living here. The magnificent split level interior features 2 large living areas and an exquisite open plan timber kitchen and meals area all with their own access to covered and open decking with breathtaking outlooks.
The main bedroom with walk-in robe, modern dual sink and dual shower ensuite , and private deck is situated on the lower level alongside the office with custom shelving. Upstairs, 3 spacious family bedrooms are accompanied by another bathroom that features a soaking tub, rain shower and separate powder.
With an extensive list of extra features including curved lounge windows with shade blinds, a retractable awning on the deck, gas ducted heating, and abundant storage, this home offers unparalleled comfort. Guaranteed to be memorable to even the most discerning buyer, this property is a must-see. Plan your viewing today.
• Magnificent split level family home with spectacular views
Several incredible outdoor entertaining areas including a covered alfresco and open decking
• Split-level family room and dining area plus a bright living area with curved windows
• Rich timber kitchen with wall oven, gas cooktop, and inviting island
Private lower level parents’ retreat with walkin robe, luxe ensuite, private deck, and home office with custom shelving
HOME FOCUS
THE ULTIMATE EQUINE PROPERTY AND LIFESTYLE
THIS beautiful equine property has outstanding horse facilities, sweeping valley views, income earning potential, and all coupled with a quality, lovingly renovated, spacious 5 bedroom/4-bathroom grand family home that offers dual accommodation. This property is the ultimate in equine facilities, comfort and lifestyle and truly one of a kind!
The primary features include:
Equine Facilities:
23.6 acres offering a mix of clear land, bushland, a flowing creek and flower farm,
• Outstanding equine infrastructure,
• 10 stables including 2 inside and 8 external oversized (9x4.5m) undercover yards, Barn with 2 internal stables, hot wash, hay storage, tack room, feed room,
• Truck/float/boat parking inside barn and 3 x machinery bays,
• A 60 x 25m flood lit arena with composite sand and fibre surface and dressage mirrors, 9 paddocks with Shockcoat fencing and plenty of room for further paddocks and
• Separate electric gate access to the barn/ stables and all fully concreted with extensive drainage for year-round use.
Home:
Stunning and solid home with 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and 5 living areas, Amazing views and the ability to watch the arena, stables and paddocks from the comfort of your lounge,
• Freshly painted inside and out with new carpets, New European Double-Glazed windows and doors throughout, New internal lighting,
• Full size Snooker Room/Rumpus room,
• Large verandah with distant views, overlooking the new in-ground pool and property, Huge Master with stunning views, private balcony and walk in dressing room/ensuite, Self-contained apartment with split system heating and cooling, lounge, kitchenette, bedroom, ensuite and huge walk-through robe,
• New reverse cycle, electric ducted heating and cooling, and built in Cast Wood Fire that supports the Hydronic Heating if that is your preference.
Outside:
• Massive workshop/shed/hay shed – approx 30x12m + oversized, drive through carport, Commercial electric gate, providing secure access to the equine facilities, Gorgeous in ground pool with amazing views,
• Operational flower farm with income producing potential,
• New water tanks and rainwater system with filtration, New sewerage system pipework, complete with new treatment plant, Large post and rail dog run adjacent to the home,
FamilyHomeinGreatLocation.
LocatedinEmeraldon a1,183sqmblock,this3BRhomeofferscomfortablelivingwithpractical features.Thecarportprovideseasyaccesstothetiledentryway,leadinginto aspacious,carpeted loungewarmedbythewoodfire,whilstGDHthroughoutensureswarmthineveryseason.All3 bedroomsfittedwithBIR &carpetforcomfort.With acentralbathroom &separatetoiletoffering convenienceforfamilyliving.Theopenplankitchen/diningareafeaturesanintegratedoven& electricstove,with aslidingdoorthatopensontoa coveredoutdoorarea,perfectforentertaining. Thefullyfencedflatbackyardisidealforchildren& petstoplay,completewithlargegardenshed forstorage.
Thishomeisidealforanyoneseekinga peacefullifestylewithproximitytolocalamenities
ashortstrolltotown! InvestheretoenjoythecharminglifestyleGembrookhastoofferwiththecafes,restaurants,walking trails,freshair& thePuffingBillyRail!The3 bedroom,2 bathroomsolidbrickhomeispositionedwell backfromtheroad& hasanidealviewinglocationforthePuffingBillyRailwayLine.TheMaster bedroomhasanensuite,whilstthefurther2 bedroomsareservicedbythefamilybathroom.There is alargekitchen,withspaceforyourdiningtable, &thekitchenflowstotheloungeroom.Thereis also ahandymudroomtotherearofthehomewithit’sowntoilet.Externallyis agreatshedwithtwo openbays,& anenclosedshedwith 3phasepower.Thereisalsoa singlecarporttotherearofthe homewithconcretefloor &a light,aswellas afurthershedtotherearofthehome.
AaronDay M 0407365994 BrennanMileto M 0422996451 3 A 2 B 10 C
BeautifullyRenovatedCharacterHomewithViews& ThePonyPaddock! Thischarming 3bedroomhomeoffers aperfectblendofmoderncomfortandruralserenity.The masterbedroomhasviewsthatallowyoutowaketothegorgeoussunrises, &featuresBIR &modern ensuite, 2furtherbedrooms,onewithBIR,& bothwithprivateoutlooks, abeautifullyrenovated centralbathroomwithseparatepowderroom,& Europeanlaundry,allleadingoffthestylishlounge room,completewithwoodfire.Beautifultimberflooringflowsthroughoutthehome,complemented byductedheating/cooling.Thestunningkitchen/diningistheheartofthehome,withfloortoceiling windowson2 sides,Smegoven,anabundanceofbenchspace &largeislandbench.Thisisthe perfectkitchentocreateculinarymasterpieces,seamlesslyconnectingtoanundercoverdeck. Outsideyouwillfind aworkshop/singlegarage,chickenhouse& fullyfencedpaddockwithshelters.
Solid,PrivatelyLocated, 4Bedroom,FamilyHomewithStunningPool! Asyoudrivedownthesealeddriveyouwillfindthishiddengemfeaturing4 bedrooms,2 bathrooms, doublecarport, &solarheatedpool.Onenteringthehomeyouarewelcomedbytheloungeroom withwoodfire.AdjacentisthemasterbedroomwithWIR,ensuite& Frenchdoors.Downthehallyou willfind 2bigbedrooms,0newithdoublerobes &largecolonialwindows.Thekitchen/meals/family roomisopenplan &featuresa woodheaterwhilstthehomehasmainsGDHthroughout.Thekitchen hasa newdishwasher,electricwalloven &900mminductioncooktop, &plentyofbenchspace.At thisendofthehomeisthe4thbedroom,familybathroom &laundrywithrearyardaccess.Outside hasa doublecarport,lockableshed,& stepsleadingtothesolarheatedingroundpool.
19TelopeaRoadEmerald
HOME FOCUS
PRISTINE LIFESTYLE PROPERTY ON 22 ACRES
LOCATED on Emerald’s exclusive Paternoster Rd, this expansive country residence set on over 22 acres overlooking wonderful views is sure to impress. Upon arrival, the post and rail fenced driveway with solar lighting will welcome you to the home. Set back from the road, the residence offers complete privacy.
This spacious home has been carefully designed for family living, boasting three separate living zones to cater for formal and informal entertaining. In the heart of the home, the renovated kitchen with adjoining sitting and dining areas is ideal for those who love to host, featuring a huge island bench with Messmate timber top breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, dishwasher, feature splashback and a butler’s pantry. The adjacent spacious lounge area and separate large rumpus room allow everyone to have their own space. The three living areas all face the spectacular valley views and bask in natural light.
There are four generous bedrooms, the master suite boasts a stunning renovated ensuite bathroom and walk in wardrobe. The secondary bedrooms are separately zoned with the family bathroom and all have built in robes. Throughout the homes, picture windows, ornate cornicing and bay windows all add to the country character and charm. For year-round comfort, there is ducted heating throughout and split system A/C. There is also an alarmed double garage under roofline. Entertainers will relish in the outdoor area, the paved gazebo and pool area both relish in the lovely local views and afternoon sun. Sit back, relax and enjoy the view with your friends and family.
If you need room for all the toys and tools, there is fantastic shedding on the property. There is an 11m x 11m 3-bay 6 car high-rise Colorbond barn within easy reach of the home, with concrete floor and power that offers great car accommodation, storage, workshop, potential for a hoist and high enough for wake boat storage. An additional 6.5m x 12.5m shed is currently used for hay and tack storage whilst the third Colorbond shed has a machinery shed and a studio/home office/ teenage retreat.
For the equine enthusiast, the property has electric fences to four oversize paddocks, one with a day box and all with water troughs. Horse riding options also a plenty with a grass arena on the property as well as nearby riding trails and pony clubs. If you (or the kids) prefer
HOME FOCUS
EDWARDIAN DELIGHT WITH CHARM
WELCOME to 42 Dammans Road, Warburton
– a stunning Edwardian treasure that seamlessly blends historic elegance with modern comforts. Built in the mid-1940s, this period home has been lovingly recently sensitively renovated including full painting internally & externally and boasts a charming private front and rear gardens – nothing to do but move in and enjoy its old-world charm while offering the conveniences of contemporary living.
Step inside and be captivated by the exquisite details that define this residence. Stained glass windows cast colourful patterns of light, adding a magical touch to every room. Decorative cornices and ceiling roses, wood panelled walls plus 12 foot high ceilings enhance the sense of space and grandeur, while swag and tail drapes create an atmosphere of timeless sophistication.
The unique layout of this home presents versatile living options, perfect for multigenerational families or those seeking a potential B&B opportunity (STCA). The main house features 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a beautiful and large dining and separate lounge area with two open fireplaces, and an updated kitchen with new gas/elec range.
The studio showcases provides another separate abode – bedroom, bathroom & kitchenette STCA, an outside courtyard and separate car storage
A further detached building contains a storeroom/home office includes cathedral ceilings an additional bathroom, laundry, & kitchenette STCA.
Take time to review the floor plan and envision how this property can suit of variety of your individual / family needs. Each room tells a story, with spaces that invite you to relax, entertain, and create lasting memories.
The location is just perfect, directly opposite the Yarra River and a short stroll across the bridge to the vibrant Main Street of Warburton. Enjoy relaxing on the front period cast lace verandah while enjoying the private garden setting and listening to the magnificent Yarra River rumble by or on a hot summers day just walk across the road and take a dip.
The property is unique in that it offers
HOME ESSENTIALS
convenient frontage to three different roads and access from three different driveways with car storage in a single garage/ single carport /
large dual carriage driveway . Experience the perfect blend of charm, character, and convenience of 42 Dammans
Road. This Edwardian delight is ready to welcome you home. Don’t miss the opportunity to own a piece of Warburton’s history.
QUIET AND PRIVATE IN A SEMI-RURAL LOCATION
NESTLED near the end of a quiet, no through road, this wonderful family home offers privacy and serenity.
It’s an ideal retreat for those who appreciate space whether for tools, cars, or outdoor toys and a haven for kids who love to explore the outdoors. Enjoy peaceful moments on the deck with a cuppa and a good book.
The home features three generously sized bedrooms and a bright, sunny open plan lounge, family, and meals area that extends
to a spacious outdoor deck. Soak up the Yarra Valley views, breathe in the fresh air, and relish the feeling of living with open farmland and nature around you.
This unique home includes ample off street parking, expansive workspaces, and the flexibility to add a fourth bedroom or home office if needed.
Just a short drive to the shops & schools at Woori Yallock, and great access to local walks and rail trail.
SereneMountainRetreatwithStunningViewsandLushGardens
Thischarminghomeoffers arareopportunityforsomeonetofallinlovewitha tranquilretreat, perfectasa weekendgetawayor apeacefulpermanentresidence.Thehomeboaststhree bedrooms,eachwithpicturesquewindowsthatcapturethebeautyofthesurroundings.The spaciouskitchenisperfectforcookingenthusiasts,featuring alargeoven,dishwasher,andplenty ofcounterspace.Anupdatedfamilybathroom,separatetoilet,anda laundrywithamplestorage completethemainlevel.Downstairs,you’llfind aversatilespace,idealfor ahomeoffice,studio,or hobbyroom,alongwith agenerousworkshopandadditionalstorage.Thestunninggardenswrap aroundthehome,offering apeacefulretreatthatfeelslikeyourownprivatesanctuary.Conveniently located,thisdelightfulhomeofferstheperfectblendofserenityandaccessibility.
RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068 Inspection: Sat1:00-1:30pm
555HazeldeneRoad,Gladysdale$800,000
25AcresofNatureandLifestyleBliss!
Thisuniqueparcelofvacantlandthathasbeeninthefamilyformanyyearsisnowavailableto purchase.Mostlynaturalbushlandin abeautifulruralenvironmentwithsomeclearedareasthat haverecentlybeenslashed.Idealforthoselookingfor aprivategetawayand achangeofpace, timetoreplacethenoiseofthehustleandbustlewiththesweetsoundsofnatureandtheever changingforest.Offeringultimateprivacywithoutcompromisingon agorgeousmountainoutlook, asecludedentrancemeansyouareinyourownworld.Pleasenote:enteroffRymersRd,andsee signboardfordetails.Anacreagetreasuretocallyourown!
DavidCarroll M 0419539320
MichaelRobinson M 0418505635
Stunning39.3AcreswithFantasticViews PerchedaboveandoverlookingtheWooriYallocktownshipandthesurroundingYarraValleywith fantasticviewstoadmireandenjoythissensationalparceloflandof39.3acres(15.91ha)isa rare find.Quality,clearundulatingpasturewith amultitudeofpossibilities,theold3 bedroomfarmhouse andbungalow/studioareinneedofsomeloveandattentionbutoffera greatplacetostartthebig acreagelifestylethewholefamilywilllove.Substantialsheddingwith alargelockupshedandopen farmmachineryshedwithplentyofoptionsforimprovement. Agreatpropertyoffering asuperb rurallifestyleandconvenientlysituatedjusta shortdistancetolocalschools,shopsandtransportand withtheWarburtontrailjustdowntheroadit’sa greatplacetobe.Acreageofthissizeandlocation closetotownisveryrareandveryhardtofindsomakethemovenow.
DavidCarroll M 0419539320 Inspection: Sat1:30-2:00pm
MichaelRobinson M 0418505635
anda havenforkidswholovetoexploretheoutdoors.Enjoypeacefulmomentsonthedeckwitha cuppaanda goodbook.Thehomefeaturesthreegenerouslysizedbedroomsand abright,sunny openplanlounge,family,andmealsareathatextendsto aspaciousoutdoordeck.Soakupthe YarraValleyviews,breatheinthefreshair,andrelishthefeelingoflivingwithopenfarmlandand naturearoundyou.Thisuniquehomeincludesampleoffstreetparking,expansiveworkspaces,and theflexibilitytoadd afourthbedroomorhomeofficeifneeded.Justa shortdrivetotheshops& schoolsatWooriYallock,andgreataccesstolocalwalksandrailtrail.
RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068
Tense finish to race season
By Jamie Strudley
The final round of XCR24 was held on Saturday morning at the Tan Track in Melbourne. The cold, wet conditions did not dampen the excitement and enthusiasm of our Yarra Ranges Athletics athletes. Four teams with a chance of a team win and vying for points that might secure promotion for 2025, the tension and nerves were high.
The Open Women’s team started the day one point behind Division 2 leaders, Bendigo. Victory over the Bendigo quartet would secure promotion to Division 1 for 2025. The team of Maddie Laven, Zoe Clarke, Katrina Winger and Briar Keyser took to the relay event around the famed Tan Track with nervous excitement, so too did the Bendigo team.
In a close race the Bendigo team claimed the win with YRA’s courageous team finishing second. They will be back in 2025 to again seek promotion to Division 1.
The men’s team started the day in third place on the Division 2 ladder behind Sandringham and Frankston. A dominant Sandringham team had already secured the division win and promotion before this round, so their goals were to try to win the 6 x 1 lap relay and climb to second on the ladder.
Harry Norman and Tynan Mims both ran scintillating times for the opening two laps to have us well placed. Max Savill-Bentley ran another solid lap to have YRA leading at the halfway stage. Sandringham and Frankston then showed their depth with some very strong athletes on legs four and five. Despite a blistering final lap from James Laven we eventually finished a very close third, only 17 seconds adrift of Frankston. It concluded another very strong, successful season for our Open Men’s team, consistently finishing in the top three in every round and Harry Norman winning the Individual Champion Athlete award. Another solid off-season and we will again challenge for a division win and promotion to Division 1.
The men’s Division 6 team again showed the depth within our club. Although only managing a second place finish for the four lap relay, the team finished the season with three division wins, and multiple top three finishes to secure the Division 6 pennant and promotion to Division 5 for 2025.
The women’s Under 20 team finished the season in second place behind a strong Essendon team. With most of YRA’s U20 team competing in
the Open Women’s team this week they did not field a team in the U20 grade, but still held second place overall. Briar Keyser had an outstanding debut cross country season, securing the Overall Individual Under 20 Champion as well as a top 15 finish at the Australian Championships.
YRA also welcomed two new athletes to the YRA Crew family. Adrian Vosk and Jeremy de Groot had their debut runs, look forward to see-
ing you in YRA colours again.
Tan relay results are:
Female Open Division 2 4x3.83km: 2nd (Madeline Laven: 14:26, Zoe Clarke: 15:08, Katrina Winger: 14:30, Briar Keyser: 14:22) 58:26; Female Open Division 4 3x3.83km: 8th (Bonnie Morris: 16:14, Elisabeth Coffey: 18:58, Rori Jones: 16:02) 51:14; Female 14 3x3.83km: 7th (Adele Ellis: 17:50, Lily Clarke: 16:23, Brienna Coffey: 16:43) 50:56; Male Open Division 2 6x3.83km: 3rd (Harry Norman: 11:05, Tynan Mims: 11:21, Max SavillBentley: 11:41, Angus Norman: 12:47, Reuben Johnson: 12:42, James Laven: 11:43) 1:11:19;
Male Open Division 6 4x3.83km: 2nd (Daniel Groves: 12:40, Jared Byrne: 13:19, Liam Russell: 13:12, Michael Clarke: 14:50) 54:01;
Male Open Division 7 4x3.83km: 5th (Trent Ashton: 14:53, Matthew Morrison: 14:42, Mitchell Pointon: 13:57, Blake Saloyedoff: 15:58) 59:30; Male Open Division 7 4x3.83km: 8th (A. Vosk: 14:07, J. de Groot: 16:39, Bryan Ackerly: 18:01, Craig Hewitson: 17:28) 1:06:15
A couple of weeks off before we are back into the fun on the track and field season, which starts on 5 October. Registrations are now open on the Athletics Victoria and Little Athletics Victoria websites.
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!
Lilydale players all set up for spring croquet season
By John Thomson
The spring croquet competition season has now kicked off once again.
As in previous seasons there is the Monday Level play competition, with a division 1 and division 2. The divisions are decided by each player’s handicap ranking, and then there is the Thursday Handicap competition. Again, this season Lilydale Croquet Club has a team in all three competitions, and on paper all three should do very well.
The season started on Monday 9 September. Lilydale’s division 1 team hosted Monash at Lilydale. Lilydale’s team consisted of Murray Howlett and Craig McCracken.
The first game was the doubles. This was an extremely hard fought affair with a lot of defensive play, neither team could take control of the game, so much so the game went for an hour and a half. After 12 hoops the scores were at six hoops a piece so the thirteenth hoop had to be played to decide the winner.
Lilydale had the opportunity to run the hoop to win the game but unfortunately missed and Monash took their opportunity and ran the hoop to win the game. Monash 7 hoops Lilydale 6 hoops.
Murray Howlett played the first of the singles. This game was also close with both teams going hoop for hoop, but again Lilydale did not capitalise on their play which let Monash in to win the game. Monash 7 hoops Lilydale 5 hoops. Craig McCracken played in the next singles game. Unfortunately, Craig just could not take a trick and everything he tried just did not come off and in contrast the Monash player was playing very well and took out the game 7 hoops to Lilydale 1 hoop.
At the lunch break the scores were Monash 3 games 21 hoops to Lilydale 0 games 12 hoops. WithonlytwosinglesgamestobeplayedMonash had won the day so it was up to Lilydale to try and win the last two games.
Murray Howlett played in the first game after lunch. Murray must like playing in close games
Craig McCracken had a slow start to his first game of the season but regrouped in the second singles match. (Stewart Chambers: 429649)
as this one ebbed and flowed during the game but again it was a couple of errors by Lilydale that let the Monash player in to take out the game. Monash 7 hoops Lilydale 5 hoops.
Craig McCracken played in the last singles. Craig had obviously regathered himself over the lunch break and turned his game completely around from his first singles and dominated his opponent and went on to win 7 hoops to Monash 1 hoop.
Final scores were Monash 4 games 29 hoops to Lilydale 1 game 24 hoops.
In Division 2, Lilydale travelled to Monash. The Lilydale team consisted of Alan Jones, Mi-
chael Crawley and Michael Gilsenan.
In the doubles Alan Jones and Michael Crawley teamed up. The Lilydale pairing got off to a good start and held their advantage throughout the game winning 7 hoops to Monash 2 hoops.
In the first of the singles Michael Gilsenan played. This game was very close all the way and after twelve hoops both players were on six hoops a piece so they had to play the thirteenth hoop to decide the winner. Lilydale set up well and was able to capitalise on this and ran the hoop to win the game 7 hoops to Monash 6 hoops.
In the second singles Michael Crawley was playing. Michael’s game has been improving a lot over the last year and it certainly showed in this game as he went on to have a comfortable win 7 hoops to Monash 2 hoops.
At lunch the scores were Lilydale 3 games 21 hoops to Monash 0 games 10 hoops. Lilydale had the day won but there were still two more singles games to be played. Could Lilydale make it a clean sweep or would Monash hit back?
Alan Jones played in the first singles after lunch. This was another tight game going hoop for hoop and after 12 hoops both players were six hoops each. The thirteenth hoop had to be played to break the deadlock. There was a lot of defensive play at this hoop but in the end the Monash player took her chance and ran the hoop. Monash 7 hoops Lilydale 6 hoops.
In the last singles Lilydale’s Michael Gilsenan played. This game was also a close affair but the Monash player was able to run a couple of clutch hoops to take out the game 7 hoops to Lilydale 5 hoops.
Final scores Lilydale 3 games 32 hoops to Monash 2 games 24 hoops.
OnThursday12SeptembertheHandicapseason started. The Lilydale team, which this week consisted of Murray Howlett, Kerri McCracken and Michael Crawley travelled to Monash.
In the first game Kerri McCracken played. Kerri was taking on a much more credentialed opponent but because of the handicap system had a 4 hoop start. The game was tight all the way
through but the Monash player was able to take the lead and went on to win 7 hoops to Lilydale 6 hoops.
The next game was the first of the doubles with Murray Howlett and Michael Crawley teaming up for Lilydale.
Lilydale were starting 2 hoops behind and Monash 1 hoop in front. Lilydale got off to a good start and gradually pegged back their Monash opponents. Lilydale went on to win 7 hoops to Monash 3 hoops.
Michael Crawley played in the next singles with the Monash player having a 1 hoop start. Michael continued to show good steady form and went on to win 7 hoops to Monash 5 hoops.
In the second of the doubles matches Murray Howlett and Kerri McCracken teamed up. Murray and Kerri were starting 1 hoop behind their Monash opponents. Lilydale started well and had soon made up that 1 hoop deficit and went on to win 7 hoops to Monash 4 hoops.
At the lunch break the scores were Lilydale 3 games 27 hoops to Monas 1 game 19 hoops. With 2 games to be played Lilydale still needed to win 1 more game to be assured of winning the day.
The first game after lunch was a singles game and Kerri McCracken was playing.
Kerri had a 2 hoop advantage and her opponent had a 1 hoop deficit. The Monash player started well and worked his way into the game and went on to win 7 hoops to Lilydale 4 hoops.
This win by Monash closed the gap considerably and the final result was going to come down to the last game, a doubles, which saw Murray Howlett and Michael Crawley pair up.
The Monash team had a 1 hoop start while the Lilydale team were starting 2 hoops in arrears. The game was close, but the Lilydale pair took their chances when they arose and were able to get on top and take the game 7 hoops to Monash 5 hoops. This ensured Lilydale of a win on the day. Final scores Lilydale 4 games 38 hoops Monash 2 games 31 hoops
A good start to the spring season for the Lilydale team.
Briar Keyser put her best foot forward in the Division 2 relay race. (Supplied)
