Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 17th September 2024

Students embrace R U OK? Day

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

As part of the R U OK? Day initiative by the national suicide prevention charity, schools across the country came together to emphasise the importance of mental health and promote meaningful conversations that can make a significant difference for those facing challenges.

This year, we contacted Ferntree Gully’s Wattle View Primary School to learn about their efforts in raising awareness and providing support on the issue of suicide.

Wattle View Primary School captain Vukota Misic said the school introduced various activities to help students learn how to support and reach out to peers who might be feeling down.

“For me R U OK day means to check in on how people are going and that everybody can approach somebody if they’re not looking ok and help them out,” the 11-year-old said.

According to R U OK organisation, an estimated 65,000 Australians make a suicide attempt every year.

To continue reading, turn to page 12

Sweeping change

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 retro-

spective medical discharges, a complex process for any veteran, to assisting with home help or medical appointments.

“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.”

Continued page 3

Wattle View Primary School school captain Vukota with principal Tracy Wright. (Stewart Chambers: 431307)

Report findings must be implemented

From page 1

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 ex-serving 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.

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.

“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-a-generation 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.”

Mr Dobson said all parties involved in the roy-

al 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

IN BRIEF

Gembrook fatal

A motorcycle rider has died following a collision in Gembrook on Saturday evening.

Police have been told the rider was travelling on Soldiers Road, near Gembrook-Launching Place Road, when he was involved in a collision with another vehicle at about 5.40pm on 14 September.

Sadlythemalerider,believedagedinhis20s,died at the scene.

A number of other riders and witnesses nearby stopped at the scene to assist where possible.

The driver of the car, who wasn’t injured, also stopped at the scene and has spoken with police.

Cardinia Highway Patrol are investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision including reports the rider was on the wrong side of the road at the time of the collision.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with dashcam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Ambulance scarcity

Montrose,RingwoodandYarraJunctionwereamong 30 ambulance branches in metro Melbourne to be drop ambulance crews on Saturday 14 September according to the Victorian Ambulance Union.

This was paired with at least 20 ambulances also dropped across rural Victoria because of high levels of sick leave.

TheVAUstatedtherearenormallyapproximately 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.

• Crewsdriving60kmormoretogettoCode1cases.

• Reports that the Metropolitan region dropped to one per cent fleet availability.

VAU secretary Danny Hill said warnings about staffing and conditions have issued.

“Themembersrarelygetbreaks,almostneverfinishontimeandtheyareexhaustedandburntout.So, this is the reality we are facing,” he said.

“We have been warning about the need to better supporttheworkforce,sowehaveahealthyandwellsupported workforce. If you don’t support the workforce, then the response to the community suffers.” HP’s financial calculator recalled HP 17bII+ Financial Calculator has been recalled because the product packaging contains loosely packaged button/coin batteries and may release more than one battery at a time.

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There is a risk of choking, severe internal burn injuries or death to young children if they gain access to the button batteries and swallow or place them inside their body.

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ThisproductwassoldonlinenationallybyOfficeworks, Amazon, Green Triangle, Calculatorworld, SBA Office National, Office Products Depot Gold CoastandOfficeNationalHobartbetween1October 2019 and 15 November 2023.

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)

NEWS 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 AM KC 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)

NEWS $800m for DV support effort

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.

Storm response: Gas crucial during outages, say locals

By Nick Sinis

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 February 13, 2024, 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.

Recommendations included:

-AusNet annually attest to the Minister for Energy and Resources about the currency, completeness, maturity and implementation ability of its emergency risk management practices regarding the transmission of electricity, inclusive of assets, people, resources, governance, systems, processes and arrangements with contractors

-The Victorian Government amend the Emergency Management Act 2013 to: a. allow the Minister responsible for the essential services of fuel, light and power to issue guidelines to ensure the responsible entity addresses the people, resources, governance, systems and processes, and the like required to support operational resilience of electricity as an essential service; and b. require the statement of attestation to be approved by the entity board, council or other governing body, as the case requires.

-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.

As part of the final report, community engagement summaries were also released with areas of Monbulk, Emerald, Gembrook, and Cockatoo engaging with the review panel in early May.

Concerns and feedback included the use of generators and what are most effective for a prolonged power outage, the community house at Upper Beaconsfield having no backup power meaning the area is less prepared for an emergency, the impact on an ageing population, in-

stalling underground powerlines and how the community can help itself.

Communities were also asked about the use of gas and alternative fuels, responding that:

“We cook with gas. We need to keep gas. Would be too difficult without. We need both for redundancy.”

“In 2021, having a fireplace kept us warm and meant we were happy to stay at home”.

“Until electricity becomes more reliable, we’ll stick with gas for heating and cooking.”

When asked about the AusNet response, locals also highlighted:

“We heard nothing from AusNet on the ABC”.

“We know not to trust expected time of restoration”.

“The AusNet app is useless. It points you to the wrong place, will often tell your power isn’t restored when it is … Gave up looking at it as it bore no resemblance to what is happening.”

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

Many businesses in the Hills were without power. (Stewart Chambers: 389202)

Areas of Pakenham Upper and the Yarra Ranges were hard hit during the freak storm in February this year. (File)

Cash was king at a servo in Emerald.

Emerald-Monbulk Road, Emerald had many trees uprooted.

ECLC chief executive officer Michael Smith with Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus KC at the ECLCs 50th birthday celebration in May. (Supplied)

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.

Seasonal Art Events, Exhibitions and Live Music: The Arts Are Thriving at Burrinja This Spring

Sunset Sessions: Spring

Date: Fri 20 Sept, from 6.00pm – 9.00pm

Discover the magic of Burrinja on a Friday evening at Sunset Sessions: Spring Immerse yourself in vibrant art, lively music and tantalising tastes to celebrate the final week of Burrinja’s stunning Botanical exhibition.

This Spring themed Sunset Session offers a spectacular line-up:

• Botanical Dual Exhibition: Drawn From Nature and Banks’ Florilegium

• Calming the Storm Within Exhibition by Megan Archer

• Botanical Art Workshop with Botanical artist Martha Iserman

• Lively Bush Dance led by Bushwahzee

• Exquisite Gin Tastings courtesy of GinFinity (Killik)

• Delicious Paella by Mullum Creations

• Artist Talk from Botanical artist John Pastoriza Piñol

With tickets at $10 – $15, and children under 12 free, this event is accessible for everyone. Burrinja invites the whole community to welcome Spring by enjoying an unforgettable evening of creativity and culture.

Exhibitions: Epiphany of Paint by William Holt / From Where I Begin by Nikki Willson

Dates: Sat 28 Sept – Sun 3 Nov

Upcoming exhibitions include Epiphany of Paint by William Holt and From Where I Begin by Nikki Willson. Viewers are invited to experience Holt’s latest collection of contemporary abstract art, as he delves deeper into his expanded creative practice. Willson’s video installation explores the disconnect between her external and internal existence as an artist with a disability, using the body as a tool to make these struggles visible. Exhibitions Launch on Sunday 6 October at 2.00pm – RSVP via https://burrinja.org.au/art/exhibitions

Velveteen Rabbit

Date: Tue 1 Oct, 11:00am

This is a theatre show where the toys are in charge on stage. Your own special guest toy is a VIP! A thoughtful and hilarious reimagining of the classic children’s story for the whole family.

Created by Melbourne theatre company Born in a Taxi.

Nicole Zuraitis (USA) – Live in the Lyre

Date: Thu 17 Oct, 8.00pm

Renowned singer-songwriter, pianist, arranger and Grammy® Award-winner (2024) Nicole Zuraitis has made a significant mark on the modern jazz landscape. As well as a recording artist, she is the premier vocalist for the Birdland Big Band and frequently headlines iconic NYC jazz clubs. This show gives audiences a special chance to catch Zuraitis live in concert before she performs at the Melbourne International Jazz Festival.

Swinging With The Royal Australian Navy Big Band Sat 19 Oct, 1:00pm Jazz, swing and big band music with support from Dandenong Ranges Big Band.

For more details, visit burrinja.org.au (What’s On)

Plaques and Memorials policy moves forward after being deferred during a previous council meeting. (Sincerely Media)

Celebrating foster carers

By Gabriella Vukman

With this year’s Foster Care Week celebrated from September 8 to 14, agencies have encouraged the community to think about becoming foster carers.

According to the Foster Care Association of Victoria, this year there has been a nett loss of 93 carer households dedicated to housing children and young people.

A Gembrook resident and mother of over 200 foster children said, “I have raised five of my own kids and three grandkids and have always worked in childcare. I ran a family daycare for just over 35 years and then when all my children were old enough and had left home, I went into fostering.”

“I’ve always worked with kids and I’ve always

enjoyed it. I just love to see the kids smile and be happy and enjoy life. Get out of it what they can and that is a reward in itself,” they said.

“I’ve fostered over 200 kids and a lot of them still contact me. Some even come into the state twice a year to see me. They’re teenagers now. I foster because kids are great and I enjoy working with them.”

Fostering children anywhere from six months to up to four years, the Gembrook resident said, “ Most of them go back home to their parents or a family member. It is hard to give them up.”

Some of the reasons for children to go into foster care are family violence, drug and alcohol related issues as well as social and economic factors.

Currently, 9,000 children across Victoria require out-of-home care.

The Gembrook resident said, “The Australian foster system does the best they can with what money they have got. They need more foster carers. It has to work with your family, your children and your husband or your partner.”

“Foster care is important because kids need to know that they are safe and respected and that people listen to what they need. They cannot be left to wander the streets, be abused or taken for granted. All kids, no matter what age, need to know that they are loved and that you want them around,” they said.

“Foster care is a rewarding pathway to take. A lot of the kids I’ve had in care still visit even 2030 years later. Most of them ring twice a year to see what I’m doing and tell me what they are doing and I’ve got two teenagers that get sent in to state twice a year because they want to see me.”

The Gembrook resident has officially been a foster parent for about six or seven years but fostered children unofficially years before that.

The first step to becoming a foster parent is to apply to an agency such as the MacKillop Family Services and the Lighthouse Foundation. The second step is to pass an induction course.

The Gembrook resident said, “Anyone can become a foster carer but to be a foster carer you have to be patient, considerate and be able to listen to the problems of all different aged kids and keep them to yourself but try to help them.”

For more information on how to become a foster carer visit the fostering connections website at: fosteringconnections.com.au

Finding purpose, providing home and hope: 30 years on

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 currently 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.”

Mount Evelyn couple Janine and Ian have been foster carers for over 30 years. (Supplied)

CFA climbing new heights

By Matthew Sims

Firefighters from across the state gathered for the 11th annual Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb last weekend.

Climbing 28 floors at Crown Metropol on Saturday 7 September with 25 kilograms of equipment weighing them down during the climb, simulating the actions of a firefighter entering a burning high rise building.

Some participants wore full structural firefighting protective clothing, while others also wore Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) during the climb.

Operated by newly formed charity 000 Foundation, the event aimed to raise $750,000 towards Lifeline, the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation and the 000 Foundation to improve support services, fund research, remove stigmas and raise awareness of mental health issues like depression, post traumatic stress injury and suicide, especially for those within the emergency service and defence communities.

As of Friday 13 September, the fundraising total was $794,685.

Participating brigades included Emerald ($16,675), Ferntree Gully ($11,513), Montrose ($4875), Boronia ($4797), Upwey ($4364), The Basin ($4030) and Kallista The Patch ($915).

The event also honoured the 343 firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty during the September 11 2001 attacks in New York, with each climber including the name and photo of a New York City Fire Department firefighter on their bib.

Emerald CFA second lieutenant and 000 Foundation director Chris May was the second highest individual fundraiser, raising $14,099 for the 000 Foundation.

“As part of the event management team, the day went off without a hitch and was conducted in a very efficient and safe manner thanks to our climb crew volunteers, many of whom come from supporting brigades, most notably Pakenham CFA lieutenant Natalie Morgan and firefighter Jarrod Mann,” he said.

Mr May said the climb represented a “mammoth physical challenge” for all participants, who had been training for the event for months.

“There are two categories, being Donned, where they just wear the Breathing Apparatus cylinder on their back for the weight, or Donned and Started, where the firefighter wears the mask and breaths air from the air cylinder,” he said.

Since the inaugural year in 2014, the event has raised more than $3.9 million for the Alfred Hospital Burns Unit, the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Lifeline, the Black Dog Institute, 000Foundation and the Emergency Services Foundation.

For more information or to donate, visit firefighterclimb.org.au

Emerald CFA second lieutenant Chris May with his 18-month old son Henry. (Supplied)

A number of climbers had to climb with Self Contained Breathing Apparatus equipment. Don’t look down.

John’s brave cancer fight

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Emerald resident John received a call from his doctor nearly two years ago urging him to come in for immediate testing, as his previous results had been concerning, and the new tests confirmed that he had myeloma which is blood cancer.

September is cancer awareness month and it’s the most significant month of the year for the Leukaemia Foundation and Australian blood cancer community in terms of raising awareness and educating people on the impacts, what it is, the signs and symptoms, and who to turn to for support if you or a loved one are diagnosed.

The Leukaemia Foundation has found that blood cancers combined is the second highest cause of cancer related deaths in the country making blood cancer one of the nation’s most deadly cancers.

70-year-old John had spent the last few years of his life as a long-distance truck driver and as a single parent, he dedicated himself to raising his two daughters on his own.

“I was having regular blood tests because I had many strokes, and one day while I was working, my doctor called and said I needed to come in immediately, I didn’t quite believe her at first, but I stopped the truck and went to see her, they sent me to Ferntree Gully Hospital, but they couldn’t figure out what was wrong with me because I wasn’t showing any symptoms,” he said.

“But then they sent me to Box Hill, they did some blood tests, and then they told me, you’ve got cancer – it’s filled up your bone marrow.”

“I was then told I have approximately 12 months to live.”

According to Leukemia Foundation, in Australia, 53 people are told daily that they have blood cancer or one person every 27 minutes.

Additionally, 17 people will lose their battle with the disease with blood cancer claiming the lives of more than 6000 people each year.

An estimated one in 12 Australians will be diagnosed with blood cancer in their lifetime –that’s equivalent to eight per cent of the Australian population and of those diagnosed, one in three Australians will not survive five years after their diagnosis.

John had almost expected this disease given that he had three negative markers in his DNA, which he knew were concerning, he spent three and a half months in the hospital and has also experienced a stroke, despite the challenges given, he faced them with resilience.

“The first hospital I was admitted to, they tried to do everything for me, but in the end, I changed hospitals because there was a trial going that I got into, and at the moment, it’s doing me really well – I’ve got knee issues, but that doesn’t stop

me,” he said.

John received the devastating news just two weeks after his daughter’s wedding, at the time, he was struggling with knee pain that made it difficult for him to walk, but he had no idea that the situation was so serious.

“I have a particularly good survival technique, because I’ve kept alive while I’m doing all this chemo,” John said.

“Considering I should be dead, but I’m not and I see some people can’t get on to trials that I’m on because they’ve got other things wrong with them as well, I’ve worked pretty hard all my life, and it’s been relatively physical work, I’m really lucky to get to this stage, been under the care of St Vincent’s, and they’re looking after me really well.”

“My father died of cancer; I think I’ve been

very lucky at this age to hit the modern age of medical science.”

John currently lives in his home in Emerald with his dog, when he has to go to the hospital, which he does at least twice a week, his good mate takes care of his dog.

“I’ve lived a really interesting life, and I was doing all right.”

“I’ve done a lot of different things in life – cattle in the outback, which was really good, I’ve been a dairy farmer, really good as well and I’ve been a wool blender, and they all suited me when I wanted to.”

While things have been tough since he’s been diagnosed but it’s not insurmountable, he said.

“I’m doing really well, and I’ve never been in pain, I’ve just felt crooked at times, and I’ve always been working up until my

diagnosis,” he said.

“If you trust the medical system, which I did, and I’m prepared to trust them again; medical science is just absolutely amazing and even though I’ve eaten a lot of chemo, I still say that.”

John is focusing on the moments and the small things in life rather than counting the days.

“The best thing is that I’ve got to see my grandson,” he said.

“I know it’s tough, but you have to keep going, I have a lot to live for and many things that keep me motivated.”

He said like everyone, he had made his share of mistakes throughout his life, but he has no regrets.

And he looks forward to spending quality time with his family and taking his 19-month-old grandson to swimming lessons.

Aged care reforms home in on freedom for eldery

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 re-

forms 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 noworse-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.

Emerald resident John was diagnosed with Myeloma in 2022. (Unsplash)

A $5.6 billion reform of aged care is about looking after the people who cared for us, the PM says. (Unsplash)

BENDIGO BANK EMERALD - GRAND OPENING

Bank doors open in Emerald

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Community Bendigo Bank has officially opened its doors in Emerald following a grand opening on Tuesday 10 September, the event was wellattended by senior finance experts, local business leaders and residents – all excited to explore the new facility and its offerings.

The well-attended event marked a significant milestone for the community, setting the stage for the bank to serve and support its local clientele effectively.

The new branch in Emerald, located at Shop 1-3 344 Belgrave-Gembrook Road, has replaced the former branch in Cockatoo

The staff from the Cockatoo-Gembrook branch has now moved to the new Emerald location, and they are excited to continue supporting the community with all their banking needs – they look forward to welcoming both existing and new customers to the new branch.

Bendigo Bank Emerald branch manager Bruch McConnell said he’s optimistic the relocation from Cockatoo to the busier Emerald area will provide more opportunities to serve the community effectively – he hopes the move will enhance their ability to meet the needs of both existing and new customers.

“The relocation of our Cockatoo branch has been an exhausting process, we’ve been serving Cockatoo and Gembrook for nearly 19 years, we worked hard to establish it with the locals, so the move understandably caused a lot of disappointment, and people felt it was as if we were closing and abandoning the area, despite our efforts to clarify that we were only relocating, not shutting down,” Mr McConnell said.

“Over the past few years, two of the big four banks have withdrawn from the area, leaving locals with fewer banking options, to now establish a prominent presence in this community is both

exciting for us and beneficial for the locals.”

The branch manager said the community bank is poised to outperform the major banks in the Dandenongs due to its strong reputation and established presence within the community.

“People often view the big four banks as profitdriven entities that don’t support local communities, in contrast, Bendigo Bank has a strong track record of community support through sponsorships, grants, and donations and as we establish ourselves in this prominent area, we hope more people will recognise who we are, where we are, and what we do,” he said.

“We’ll will give small businesses a banking option they may not already have, but not necessarily for businesses, but certainly for organisations that

make up communities, like football clubs, RSLs, CFAs, it helps give them a bit of support in terms of being able to do what they do for the community.”

“Across the road, we have the Emerald SES, for example, on windy days and during storms, they’re on call to assist the community and a few months ago, we donated chainsaws to them – this kind of support helps them to better serve the community, clear roads, and restore electricity more quickly.”

Mr McConnell, who has over 30 years of experience in the finance and banking industry, including 27 years with one of the big four banks and nearly a decade with Bendigo Bank – said there’s a significant difference between Bendigo Bank and other major banks.

“It was more noticeable when I first started with

Bendigo Bank, for a bank to provide support to local communities, and having worked in a corporate bank where that just didn’t happen, like sponsorship was always at a bigger corporate level but they wouldn’t necessarily sponsor the local RSL or the local CFA, it was one of the first things I noticed straight away,” he said.

“The attitude of everyone that worked in the organisation and working towards helping each other to become a good bank regardless of what department you rang, everyone was prepared to help you, and you really didn’t get that in a big bank.”

Emerald RSL and Emerald Village Association (EVA) president Peter Maloney said Bendigo Bank’s support has been crucial to their organisation’s success and progress.

“With all this money that the community helps them make, they put it back into the community, helping local community groups, and sorting groups – it’s a win-win situation,” he said.

“If you walk around Emerald, you’ll notice the plaques at places like the RSL and the community hub are all supported by Bendigo Bank – as more people support this bank, you will see even more this in the future.”

Bendigo Bank regional manager for Yarra Ranges Chris Cahir also attended the opening day on Tuesday and he said it’s great to be part of a really vibrant area and continue community banking traditionally in such a great spot.

“This is the continuation of the Bendigo Bankcommunity bank era, which has been in place for over 26 years now and giving back over $300 million to community and it’s great to be involved in communities such as Emerald,” he said.

“Hopefully this means a return to good old fashioned banking service from people who live in the area and invested in the community, and I want to help support local projects and the community events and organisations that locals are involved with as well.”

Emerald welcomes new Bendigo Bank branch after relocation from Cockatoo. (Supplied)

Students ask R U OK?

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

On R U OK? Day, schools across the country came together to emphasise the importance of mental health and encourage meaningful conversations that can make a real difference in the lives of those who may be struggling.

R U OK? is a national suicide prevention charity and registered public health promotion that encourages people to stay connected and have conversations that can help others through difficult times.

It focuses on building the motivation, confidence, and skills of the help-giver – the person who can have a meaningful conversation with someone who is struggling with life.

This year, we reached out to Ferntree Gully’s Wattle View Primary School to find out how they promoted awareness and support around the issue of suicide.

Wattle View Primary School captain Vukota Misic shared that this year, the school introduced themed activities for R U OK? Day, these activities helped students learn how to support and approach peers who may be feeling down.

“For me R U OK day means to check in on how people are going and that everybody can approach somebody if they’re not looking ok and help them out,” the 11-year-old said.

“R U OK day is important because it is a crucial skill to be able to approach somebody when they’re sad, disappointed or depressed, it’s equally important because when you’re not ok you will usually not want to participate in activities or learning so when a friend comes they are most likely able to help you and encourage you to get back to learn or participate in physical education (PE) Art, Performing Arts, Stem and Auslan.”

“My school educated students about the importance of that day and we made and put up posters around the school so if somebody’s in the schoolyard and they are not feeling ok another student or staff member can approach the poster to know how to confront the student or staff member.”

Wattle View Primary School principal Tracy Wright said a myriad of supports are in place at the school to support student and staff wellbeing.

“R U OK day is a great opportunity to check in with those around you and remind students about wellbeing strategies and supports with students and using this year’s theme of ‘You don’t have to be qualified to ask R U OK?’, students participated in activities guiding them through what to ask and what to say when checking in on each other for example, ‘How are you travelling?’ and ‘I am here to listen if you want to talk’,” the principal said.

“Students discussed action that can be taken

and the importance of a regular check in, not just on R U OK Day, but anytime of the year.”

According to R U OK organisation, around eight-point-six people take their lives every day in Australia and over 10 million Australian adults know someone who has died by suicide.

The Wattle View staff held a morning tea with a ‘yellow’ theme; yellow donuts, bananas as an example, in its communal staff room, decorated with a splash of yellow, to promote the impor-

tance of wellbeing conversations.

“It is a great opportunity to check in on colleagues and discuss the importance of doing so regularly,” Ms Wright said.

“Our community was reminded about the day via our web-based school management system Compass, and links shared to support families with how to get involved, the importance and impact of a conversation and supports available.”

Vukota said his advice for a struggling friend

would be to try and forget about the situation by doing something they like or enjoy it’s because that actually helps him out when he’s feeling down.

“My advice for a friend who is struggling in silence is for them to build up the courage and confidence to confront somebody whether being their friend, another student or staff member and to talk about the situation,” he said.

Next phase of mental health support rolls out locally

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-thephone 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 no-wrong 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

Wattle View Primary School School Captain Vukota with Principal – Tracy Wright (Stewart Chambers: 431307)

The Lilydale Mental Health and Wellbeing Local has established a walk-in service at 18 Clarke Street. (Unsplash)

Spectacular talents shine

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Five exceptionally talented students from the outer east were selected to perform in the highly anticipated 2024 Victorian State Schools Spectacular (VSSS), which took place at John Cain Arena on the weekend.

The annual event with over 3000 government school students, took place on Saturday 14 September, highlighting an impressive array of music, dance, and performance, celebrating the extraordinary talents of Victoria’s young performers.

Talented dancers Cierra Shook, 16, from Ringwood Secondary College, Kevira Holy Willow, 15, from Heathmont College, vocalists Ria Bhagat, 13, from Melbourne Girls College, Zack Poole, 11, from Warrandyte Primary School and Talal Anab, 13, from Melba Secondary College.

The outer east was well-represented at the event, with talented performers including Ringwood Secondary College student Cierra Shook, 16, Kevira Holy Willow, 15, from Heathmont College, Melbourne Girls College Ria Bhagat, 13, Warrandyte Primary School Zack Poole, 11, and Melba Secondary College student Talal Anab, 13.

A principal vocalist for VSSS Zack Poole said he loves to sing and dance every opportunity he gets.

“I’ve been a part of stage school Australia since I was four-years-old and have been performing with them for the past seven years as part of their musical theatre program and boys dance academy and I really enjoy performing whenever I get a chance,” the 11-year-old said.

“I am so excited to perform in a big arena and on a very large stage in front of a massive audience and getting to use professional equipment for the first time such as in ear monitors and microphones.”

“I love performing and singing it makes me feel like I’m telling a story.”

Zack aspires to continue his passion for musical theatre, singing, and dancing as he grows older.

“I’m really proud to be here with my two brothers - my oldest brother is a principal vocalist this year and my other brother is part of mass dance for our primary school. This is most likely the last year we get to all be in the show together so I’m really looking forward to that,” Zack said. 13-year-old Ria Bhagat is also a principal vocalist for the VSSS, on the weekend she performed ‘It’s a Hard Knock Life’ and a Matilda medley from Matilda the Musical.

“I discovered my talent at five-years-old, when I was diagnosed with type one diabetes, music became a way for me to connect deeply with the songs and truly feel them,” she said.

“One of the highlights of being a vocalist is the

exhilarating experience of performing on stage, which makes me feel amazing and when I get into character, I experience a sense of freedom, connection, and confidence.”

“I have performed at a significant event, the Knox Factor Grand Final at Carols by Candlelight, which was attended by approximately 10,000 people, it was truly an incredible experience.”

Dance enthusiast Cierra Shook, who has been dancing since the age of two, said she has explored variety of dance styles.

“When you’re expressing yourself through extraordinary movement it’s an amazing feeling to share with people next to you with people in the audience and with your friends and family,” the 16-year-old said.

“One of the challenges I face in dancing is the physical exhaustion that comes with learning new routines and pushing through to the end; however, this struggle is tied to the highlight of the experience—the rush of adrenaline and satisfaction when you finish a tough routine, making you feel like you could immediately do it all over again.”

Cierra hopes to work for a circus company when she’s older.

Heathmont College student Kevira Holy Willow, who participated in a mass dance performance last year, eagerly seized the opportunity to audition for the role of principal dancer when it became available, her enthusiasm led her to sign up for the audition.

The rehearsal schedule is usually full, the performers rehearse almost every week, and there are some intensive rehearsals during the school holidays as well.

She said the audition process was quite challenging but very exciting.

After the first round, she received a call-back which made her incredibly happy, and she continued to get more call-backs and went through several more rounds of auditions.

In the end, she was offered the role of principal dancer.

“I love that when you start dancing, you can forget about whatever was behind you and when you step into a studio, it’s like stepping into another world, where everyone is super supportive, and I think that’s why everyone keeps coming back to dance – to feel so free and elevated,” the 15-year-old said.

“My background is rooted in classical ballet and lyrical character dance and as part of that one of the significant challenges I faced was having to master styles outside my usual repertoire, however, this challenge turned into a highlight of my journey, as it pushed me beyond my comfort zone and catalysed my growth as a dancer.”

“I’m proud to say that, despite the hurdles, I’ve adapted effectively and continue to make progress.”

Remembering a champion

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A much respected and beloved Monbulk resident, Vaughan Hinton, who spent his life in Australian media and social justice, passed away at the age of 92 late last month.

Mr Hinton’s career, marked by change, courage, and dedication, has left a lasting mark on Australian broadcasting and community life. His eldest daughter, Nicola Hinton who’s also known as Nicola Hepwnstall shared some of her favourite memories with the media to commemorate her dad’s life – a life lived well.

“Even though he had a very amazing career and he won awards for television programs and documentaries, in the, in the end he always had an amazing capacity to still focus on the things that mattered,” Ms Hepwnstall said.

“One of our happy memories, is that he got to see both his great-grandchildren – we still have memories of him holding his great-grandson, Parker, who’s nearly two now.”

“He spent the last seven months of his life in bed, but he was able to see his great-granddaughter just two weeks before his passing. In his final moments, his granddaughter, my daughter, and I, along with his partner Kym, were the last people by his side.”

Over 20 years ago, Mr Hinton moved with his family from Sydney to Melbourne, his two daughters are now well-established in the region – Nicola lives in Menzies Creek, while Caroline lives on the Mornington Peninsula.

“One of my favourite memories of him as a father was how he taught us to be brave, as young children, he would take us out past the big waves into the calm waters beyond – it was a powerful lesson that even through turbulent times, we could find calm on the other side,” she said.

“I remember floating with him and my sister, learning to navigate the waves and manage the challenges they presented, on the other hand, our mother would stay on the shore, urging us to come back, this balance between recognising dangers and teaching us to face them bravely was a key part of his philosophy – he showed us that while the world can be challenging, we can face it with courage and resilience.”

Hinton, who retired from the ABC in 1997, continued to contribute to the network until 2003, his most notable achievement was the creation of ‘Compass’ – a ground-breaking program that first aired in 1988.

As one of the ABC’s longest-running shows, ‘Compass’ has become synonymous with independent and diverse reporting on spirituality and religion, his vision for the program was to present a broad spectrum of religious and spiritual experiences in Australia, free from the influence of religious institutions.

Under Mr Hinton’s leadership, the ABC’s Indigenous program unit was established, producing acclaimed series such as The First Australians and Blackout.

These programs, showcasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, marked a signifi-

cant step towards greater representation and acknowledgment of Indigenous cultures in mainstream media. His commitment to these causes was evident in his efforts to make himself redundant as Indigenous talent emerged and took charge of the unit.

His influence extended beyond religious and Indigenous programming, his role in covering significant national events, including Anzac Day parades and the opening of the Vietnam War Memorial, was instrumental and notably, in 1994, he oversaw the first TV broadcast of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade, despite facing political and social challenges, including bomb threats, Mr Hinton ensured the broadcast went ahead, setting a record audience for the ABC at that time with 2.5 million viewers.

A staunch advocate for social justice, Mr Hinton’s career began in journalism with the Toowoomba Chronicle in 1948.

His early involvement in media was aligned by his commitment to humanitarian efforts, as a result, he joined the Australian Council of Churches (ACC) in 1963, working on refugee issues and co-founding ‘Force Ten’ – a collaborative aid program.

His global work included significant roles with the World Council of Churches and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

Despite personal challenges, including his separation from his wife Elizabeth, Mr Hinton remained devoted to his family.

His later years were marked by a dedication to community service in Monbulk, where he and his partner Kym Skinner volunteered with the local Country Fire Authority, earning accolades for their contributions.

In 2014, he was awarded the Medal of the Or-

der of Australia in recognition of his outstanding service to broadcasting and community engagement, his legacy leaves a testament to his unwavering commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and the power of media to effect positive changes.

Mr Hinton is remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but for his profound empathy and dedication to making a difference in others’ lives – he leaves behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and an enduring impact on Australian society.

“Even in the worst of times, he had a remarkable ability to find a sense of humour, it wasn’t about making fun of the situation, but rather about accepting it with a ‘well, that’s life’ attitude,” Ms Hepwnstall said.

“He didn’t dwell on problems, he simply moved on.”

Christmas lunch at Hinton’s in Monbulk (left to right) Vaughan, Bell, Caroline, Mark and Taylor.

Poppy and great-grandson Parker’s first birthday party.

Christmas lunch at Vaughan’s place in Monbulk (left to right) Vaughan, Richard, Nicola, Ben, Katelyn, Dwayne and Georgina.

Poppy and great-grandson Parker.

Vaughan’s great-granddaughter Grace who’s now six-weeks old, was just two weeks old before his passing.

Vaughan Hinton on ABC TV production set 1980s. (Supplied)

Meet Your Local Principal

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.

Hi, I’m Nick Frederiksen. In 2024 I began as principal of St Paul’s Primary School in Monbulk. I have been a teacher for 16 years, the last 7 years as Deputy Principal, before joining St Paul’s. Prior to teaching I ran campsites for children and adults with disabilities in France, the UK and Austria. I have also volunteered with Essendon VFLW and AFLW football teams for the past 7 years.

This year St Paul’s celebrates its 40th year in the Monbulk community. During this time, St Paul’s has provided excellent teaching practises. We are renowned for prioritising the wellbeing of every student and family in our community, and for being a place where everyone is welcome. St Paul’s use an explicit instruction approach to learning and teaching, with a strong focus on developing core skills. Explicit instruction centres around key components of daily review followed by the ‘I do, We do, You do’ approach, providing multiple opportunities for students to experience and celebrate success. This fits with the Melbourne Archdiocese of Catholic Schools (MACS) 2030 Vision for Instruction.

I am excited to continue immersing myself in Monbulk’s beautiful community, nurturing our students’ wellbeing, and working with staff to learn and continually improve. I am exceptionally grateful for the opportunity to be the Principal of St Paul’s Monbulk, and invite you to contact our school office to book a tour and experience the St Paul’s difference for yourself.

It is my privilege to be the Principal at Menzies Creek Primary School. It is a great opportunity to be supporting and working with students in our local community. We promote academic, physical, social and emotional wellbeing development and strive to provide a safe and stimulating learning environment. Our students are inquiring, collaborative and curious. They exhibit our school values of doing their best, helping others succeed and respecting our environment.

We offer a supportive and stimulating environment and recognise that students have different strengths and abilities. We provide learning opportunities so students experience success. We run a kitchen garden program where our students learn how to grow and cook their own food as well as PE, Visual and Performing Arts, Auslan and STEM. Come and discover for yourself our friendly and welcoming learning environment. Please contact our office to arrange a tour.

Nick Frederiksen - Principal

Annabel Brown - Principal

End of an era for Mangana

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Olinda’s cherished Mangana has closed its doors permanently, ending a beloved chapter after more than forty years of serving the community.

Founded in Olinda in 1983 by John and Judy Ischia, Mangana has always been owner operated, nestled within two historic buildings dating back to 1900, throughout the years, the store has undergone thoughtful restoration and renovation and an elegant walkway connected the two buildings – enhancing both accessibility and the overall sense of spaciousness.

After 41 years of operation, they chose not to sell it but to close it as they embark on their retirement journey.

“It was a very good business, it was successful right to the end,” she said.

“Because the shop was so unique to us, the best thing for it was to just retire, rather than somebody else trying to take it over – it retired with us.”

When they announced the closure of their business a couple of months ago, the couple were surprised by the outpouring of reactions from the community.

“We didn’t know the depth of feeling peo-

Boronia’s

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

ple had with our store, and I don’t think they knew either, until they realised that we were closing,” she said.

“It was a surprise to us to learn how much we were appreciated, but everybody was happy for us as well when they realised, we were retiring.”

“I’ve gone from 24 years of age to 65 years of age, and it was just time to retire together.”

Mangana Olinda has been a cherished family-owned business for over 35 years, evolving into one of Melbourne’s favourite homewares and lifestyle stores.

The couple described their experience of their store similar to stepping into an ancient era, with every item, carefully selected by them for its beauty, charm, and timelessness, and was sourced from skilled craftsman around the world.

The collection displayed was like an Aladdin’s cave, featuring a diverse array of treasures, including museum-quality scientific and maritime instruments, leadlight lamps, Australian sheepskin footwear, solid timber furniture, genuine gemstone and silver jewellery, leather goods, and other exclusive, finely crafted pieces.

“The main thing for our store was being a

big part of people’s lives because they’d been visiting it as long as we’d been there, we often have three generations of customers that came in and I think the crux of it was that we sold things to people for very special occasions,”

Ms Ischia said.

“We’ve got very special people, when they were up in the hills for a nice day out to celebrate or to find a present – we were always associated with that.”

“All those feelings just rose up in people as they discovered we were closing, and all those memories that they had that were important to them just made them feel very emotional.”

Like life, business has its ups and downs, but Ms Ischia prefers to focus on the positive aspects of her experience and leave the challenges behind.

“The highlights for us were serving people for 41 years, we found interesting things that nobody could get anywhere else, our customers always knew they could get something that they would like for somebody or themselves,”

Ms Ischia said.

“We made good connection with the local, we employed locally over those years, we were part of the community and we loved doing what we were doing – we believe we brought something unique to the area.”

In the last four months since announcing their closure, they have held a sale on everything in the store – something never done before.

“We sold 90 per cent of our stock, which was the large shop including our warehouse as well,” the 65-year-old said.

“What’s left, we will sell on to other shops, probably over time.”

While the couple operated the business together and worked towards the same goal, but they didn’t work together at the same time in the shop.

And now, the couple are looking forward to enjoying their Sundays off and spending more quality time with their families.

“It was seven days a week, real commitment that we made to something that we loved, but seven days a week for 41 years is quite a big to do – we are very much looking forward to having weekends off and spending more time with family and traveling and enjoying our home in Sassafras,” she said.

“we will certainly miss the connection we’ve made with all the people who come in to our shop over the years, and finding and bringing wonderful things to the store for people to enjoy and buy.”

aspiring astronaut touches down from Ottawa

Boronia’s aspiring astronaut, Celene Meraz Benavente, has returned from an extraordinary week in Ottawa Canada, where she engaged in cutting-edge research and training in parabolic flight with the International Institute of Astronautical Sciences.

She said the experience offered her invaluable hands-on exposure to microgravity, greatly enhancing her understanding of spaceflight dynamics and one of the highlights was getting to experience moonwalking, which provided a unique and exciting insight into how reduced gravity affects movement.

“It was an incredible experience, during the campaign, I conducted three different experiments, including a ground-breaking one where we tested for balance deficits before and after parabolic flight, this research was crucial because if there are imbalances resulting from acute exposures to a microgravity environment, it can impact our overall stability. On earth, we rely on a complex system of balance that allows us to walk without falling and react effectively and our goal was to understand how the brain processes these balance patterns and changes in the absence of gravity, and how our body responds to such conditions,” she said.

“The results from these experiments will hopefully open up new opportunities to use this Earth-based analogue environment for developing countermeasures, if we identify balance deficits after acute exposure to microgravity, we can begin to explore interventions to improve balance and mitigate these effects.”

“This research not only prepares us for future space missions but also has the potential to benefit people on Earth who struggle with balance disorders, such as vertigo – it’s truly exciting to think about how the insights we gain could lead to new solutions and improvements for managing these conditions.”

“One of the experiments I worked on was the lower extremity motor coordination, we examined how the brain processes signals from the muscles and assessed coordination, speed, and accuracy in the absence of gravity and by removing gravity, we saw these functions in their natural state, providing insights into how movement patterns are affected.”

“The final experiment was truly incredible— I had the opportunity to perform a gait analysis in a simulated lunar environment for 20 seconds, where I experienced moonwalking and it was an amazing highlight, we studied how our walking patterns change under reduced gravity, which mimics lunar conditions, this hands-on experience was fascinating and offered valuable insights into how gravity influences our gait.”

Ms Meraz Benavente said that her usual walking pattern on Earth didn’t quite translate well to the lunar gravity simulation.

The reduced gravity caused her to apply too much force, resulting in a bouncing effect as she moved and then came back down.

The aspiring astronaut said the experience as absolutely amazing and highlighted two standout moments.

The first was the sheer thrill of her initial exposure to microgravity during the parabolic flights, even though her body eventually adapted and felt more natural, that first sensation of weightlessness was indescribable and very impactful.

And the other highlight which she found to be just as exciting as the microgravity itself was the experience of moonwalking.

The challenges essentially revolved around the preparation required before conducting the experiments, she said.

There was a steep learning curve regarding the operational logistics of working in such a novel environment, since it was their first time in this setting, understanding and managing these logistics was a significant part of the process.

“Doing experiments in microgravity, which requires specialised conditions like parabolic flights, brought its own set of unique challenge and preparing experiments for this environment was quite complex and required extensive learning and adaptation,” she said.

Ms Meraz Benavente said the trip truly strengthened her perceptions.

“I need to continue to do this hard work. I need to continue moving forward, and this experience just continues to strengthen what I already believe in myself,” she said.

When asked about the importance of believing in yourself, she emphasised that self-belief is crucial, particularly in challenging fields like space exploration.

“I feel very honoured to get asked that question, because for me, it says that I’m in the right path, I’m doing the right things,” Ms Meraz Benavente said.

The experience provided her with unique insights into how reduced gravity affects movement. (Supplied)

Celene Meraz Benavente experienced the sensation of moonwalking during pioneering space research.

Celene Meraz Benavente represented Australia at the International Institute of Astronautical Sciences.

She returned from her incredible eye-opening trip with fresh perceptions.

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.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

A place for all in Selby

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

The Selby Community House, in partnership with Tribe-Monbulk Youth Inc. held a special event to celebrate the opening of the FAFO Art Exhibition on Friday 13 September – an event which showcased the talents of local young artists who are either partially or fully disengaged from school or work.

The exhibition aims to provide the young individuals with a platform to display their creativity and achievements.

The FAFO Art Exhibition opening was an exclusive invite-only event, brought to life through a collaboration between Tribe-Monbulk Youth Inc. and the young people of the Yarra Ranges.

The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Monbulk Member Daniela De Martino, Casey Federal Member Aaron Violi, Mayor Sephie Todorov, and Councillors Andrew Fullagar and Johanna Skelton.

According to the 2021 Census, 21.6 per cent of youth aged 15 to 24 in the Yarra Ranges Shire are either partially or fully disengaged from education or vocational training. This figure is notably higher than the 18.1 per cent reported for the Greater Melbourne region, highlighting a significant challenge for the local community.

Selby Community House’s community engagement officer, Jordan Sibley, who is also an artist, expressed that supporting and working with youth is her greatest passion.

Ms Sibley said the exhibition was inspired by the 2021 census.

“There’s a relationship with the covid lockdowns, mental health issues, domestic violence, and trauma, there are so many aspects that leads a young person to be unable to engage at school,” she said.

“Not only that, but school isn’t for everyone the way that we run school, inspired by the census statistic, I reached out to Belinda at TribeMonbulk and connected with the young people there.”

“There’s no handbook for how you lead a youth-led art exhibition, but I was completely blown away by the talents of the young people and their drive to participate, while some of these young people don’t hand in homework, don’t go to school, but because this is their passion, we meet them there and then they’ll want to submit artwork.”

Ms Sibley said alternative methods of engagement need to be considered, which is why youth groups such as Tribe - Monbulk Youth, run by Belinda Grooby, are exceptionally important.

This project was developed in collaboration with 10 young people from the Tribe-Monbulk Youth service.

All artworks displayed are available for purchase, with 100 per cent of the proceeds going directly to the young artists.

The project was funded by the Victorian Government Department of Families, Fairness and Housing as part of the annual September festival, YouthFest.

The organisation has also received funding from Monbulk Member Daniela De Martino.

“We need to restructure the way we look at youth groups and we need to figure out more budgets around mental health funding,” Ms Sibleys said.

The Tribe-Monbulk was founded in April 2018 by Belinda Grooby.

“Seeing my child struggle with bullying, I wanted to create a non-judgmental space where youth could lead, have their voices heard, and find an opportunity to feel safe and connected,”

Ms Grooby said.

“The partnership with Selby was a massive step forward for some of our young people to share their work and a part of themselves for the first time. It was so brave of them to allow the public a glimpse into their world.”

Since its establishment, the Tribe-Monbulk Youth Inc. has welcomed over 400 young people through its doors.

Tribe-Monbulk Youth Inc. youth ambassador Caitlyn Richards, along with her sister Rachael Richards, work closely with Ms Sibley to support and uplift youths in the Yarra Ranges region.

She joined the Selby Community House nearly two months ago, after the opportunity to work

with the organisation emerged during an art expedition designed for young people to express themselves.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for young people to connect with their peers, express their individuality, and discuss shared interests,” she said.

“My role at the Selby House is supporting a whole range of kids with their mental health, gender and just kids that want a space to talk about either school, passions, opinions, and kids that want to get involved with different things whether its sports or other activities around the community.”

Tribe-Monbulk Youth Inc. chief executive officer Rachael Richards said she was the main driving force behind the establishment of the organisation.

“I Had a bit of a rough pass, and figuring out teen hood, and my mum and I were thinking, we need another outlet for kids who aren’t really into sport, might be a bit shy, might need another outlet and another way to connect with kids – that’s kind of where this whole thing began,” Ms Richards said.

“At first it was connecting with kids my age,

and then slowly finding my voice, and then becoming a peer and a leader and someone that kids can trust and speak to.”

“I really struggled growing up in my first years of high school, I was experiencing bullying and sexual abuse from other people and dealing with a lot of traumas, I was the quiet kid –the one that didn’t really like to speak up, the one that liked to doodle in her own little sketchbook, and I didn’t really feel very connected with a lot of people.”

When Ms Richards sought a way to feel whole and connect with those around her, she struggled to find a suitable place, as a result, she and her mother founded Tribe-Monbulk Youth Inc. to address this need and create a supportive community for kids in similar situations.

She has since gained the confidence she needed and is now dedicated to helping other young people find theirs as well.

“If you’re struggling, please reach out to community groups like Tribe-Monbulk Youth Inc., Selby Community House, and other mental health services, we’re here to listen, support, and help you find your voice and direction in life and remember, you’re not alone in what you’re going through,” the 21-year-old said.

Caitlyn Richards artwork is displayed at the youth art exhibition. (429622)

Rachael Richards dedicates her youth in helping peers heel heard and supported. (429622)

Right to left: Rachael, Caitlyn and Jordan from Selby Community House (Stewart Chambers: 429622)

Climate change or normal

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

WOORILLA WORDS

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.

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 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 con-

cerned 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,

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.

New lights freshen up Ferntree Gully Village

By Tanya Steele

Ferntree Gully Village has had a lovely freshenup recently with a fairy light installation creating a winter wonderland for all to enjoy.

100 percent solar powered the 6,000 fairy lights have been installed in the village giving the area an instant lift as the lights sparkle in the night on ten trees at three sites.

On Wednesday 4 September, the lights all came on as one for the first time and the Director of the Bendigo Community Bank Ferntree Gully Ms Karin Orpen said it’s been an amazing enterprise and the bank fully funded the project.

“We called it a ‘winter wonderland’ and we hope it will activate the space,” she said.

The installation will light up the trees from dusk for five hours each evening in the Station Street and Forest Road restaurant areas.

The bank has been in its current location for nearly 25 years and the lights project is a thank you to the community around it.

“This is our way of giving back to the community, to say thank you,” said Ms Orpen.

The project involved some road closures as the lights were installed.

“I worked with the Knox City Council Director of Management, Grant Thorne and he was amazing,” said Ms Orpen.

“This is an amazing and amazing little shopping centre. It’s the only one in Knox that’s not on a main road – it’s this little hidden gem,” she said.

Chair and Bendigo Community Bank Board member Des Higginbotham said he would like to acknowledge Ms Orpen’s work.

“She’s the driver of this,” he said.

“We are very pleased with the outcome and hope that more things happen from here, really the bank’s focus is giving back to the community.”

With no local branches in Upper Gully or Mountain Gate, Mr Higginbotham said that the bank is always looking at more ways to regenerate the village.

“The actual village itself is a great place with great people centred around the train station –it’s just a matter of getting the right mix of shops, services and cafes and the bank will help in the

ways that it can,” he said.

“The point of the lights is to brighten up the area a bit, there is a real need for some redevelopment in the area.”

Mr Higginbotham said that the lights are just a first step from the bank’s point of view.

“We are very pleased with the outcome it looks terrific,” he said.

Mayor Jude Dwight from Knox Council said Council has been doing a lot of work with the Ferntree Gully community and traders in recent years to create pride and community connection through facilitating community-led projects.

“The initiative was led by the Bendigo Community Bank Ferntree Gully,” she said.

“Council’s role was limited to approving the installation of solar panels and fairy lights on

council land and providing traffic management for the works.”

“It’s great to see this community initiative get off the ground.”

Other changes are happening across the village and residents may have also noticed signage being replaced and a new free food pantry installed at the Hills Op Shop.

Ms Orpen said the Ferntree Gully Village area is in a unique setting with lots of parking and could really take off.

“It would be a beautiful restaurant precinct as well,” she said.

“It’s a magical little place.”

A community invite will be extended in a few weeks via the Community Bank Ferntree Gully Facebook page to celebrate the installations at a date to be advised.

The lights are on for all to enjoy. (Community Bank Ferntree Gully).

The streetscape has a little freshen up and charm added to it. (Community Bank Ferntree Gully).

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

SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN

Hitting the paintball mark

Looking for something fun and exciting to do during the school holidays? Paintball Games has got you covered! With courses located in Coldstream, Cockatoo, and Ballan, Paintball Games is the perfect destination for a thrilling day out with family and friends.

Whether you’re an adult or a child, Paintball Games offers a range of options to suit all ages and preferences. Adult paintball is available for those 16 and over, while low-impact paintball (also known as Splatmaster or Miniball) is perfect for younger children aged eight and above. And thanks to legislation introduced in 2015, anyone who is 16 years or over can participate in paintball gaming on an approved Victorian range without a license.

There are plenty of different packages to choose from, with prices starting at just $40 per child for

300 paintballs or $50 per child for 400 paintballs. For adults, packages including 200 paintballs start at just $50 per person, with 500 paintballs available for $85 per person and 600 paintballs for $100.

All packages include vests, overalls, goggles, and markers, as well as a basic introduction to safety and equipment use.

And if you’re looking for something to do with

a larger group, Paintball Games also offers group specials for adult and low-impact packages. So why not make the most of the school holidays and head on down to Paintball Games? It’s the perfect way to burn off some energy and have a blast with your friends and family. For more information, visit their website at www.paintballgames.com.au or give them a call on (03) 9777 0613.

Choose from one of three locations to play and show your friends who’s boss! (Supplied)

Awake your competetive spirit and see who ends up on top.

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)

WELCOME TO “ROSEDALE”

FOR sale for the first time, set amidst almost 2 acres of sprawling gardens in the classic style the Dandenong Ranges is famous for, “Rosedale” is a testament to the vision of the current owners. This stunning 5-bedroom residence, crafted in Mt Gambier limestone is the fulfilment of the dream of the current owners and period builders culminating in a home of outstanding quality and craftsmanship, rarely seen.

The magnificent leadlight entrance is adorned with charming archways that set the tone for the elegance found throughout the home. Leading into a traditional lounge where a grand antique fireplace is the centrepiece of the room. Ironbark flooring, unique inlaid timber and inset rugs are further enhanced by the ornate cornice, ceiling rose and drapes; with a seamless transition into a sophisticated dining area, where the family has enjoyed a lifetime of everyday meals and special gatherings.

The heart of the home is the expansive kitchen, designed for both functionality and style. The beautiful doors and central bench are crafted in solid Myrtle, Stone benchtops for practicality and European appliances are also a feature, with a generously sized WI corner pantry, ensuring ample storage space for all your culinary needs.

You will be charmed by the morning room where sunlight streams through the five bay windows as you enjoy your breakfast whilst you immerse yourself in garden vistas.

The main bedroom is a luxurious sanctuary, complete with ceiling fan and split system for personalized climate control. Featuring a double mirrored walk-through robe that leads to a stunning ensuite bathroom, showcasing high-quality fixtures and finishes. In addition, a huge walk-in robe provides ample storage space, ensuring that all your belongings are neatly organized.

The central bathroom, with its classic clawfoot bath, adds a touch of vintage elegance, while a separate toilet provides added convenience

The informal family dining opens onto a spacious living room warmed by a slow combustion wood heater set in a limestone fireplace with Tasmanian Oak flooring, timber panelling, double glazed windows and reverse cycle air conditioner creating a fantastic family space. French doors lead to a beautifully designed outdoor space perfect for entertaining and relaxation. The brick paved courtyard features a remote-control awning, allowing you to adjust to the weather and creating a comfortable setting for gatherings. Ascend the stairs to explore the meticulously landscaped gardens with soothing fountain which enhances the tranquil ambiance. Vegie patch and a charming bird aviary completes the first of the many garden rooms.

As you open the gate, you ascend to a Japanese themed garden showcasing a curved bridge flanked by handcrafted mosaics. A reticulating stream cascades to a natural pond where a water garden is surrounded by river

rocks and flowering plants.

Set higher up in the garden, taking in views over The Patch Valley lies a brick paved entertaining area, the perfect location for summer evenings hosting outdoor events. An inviting stone fireplace adds warmth and charm to the space, whilst well-maintained pathways guide you through the lush grounds. The sunny expansive lawns are a vibrant canvas for outdoor activities, from picnics and playdates to garden parties and quiet afternoons with a book. A garden where children can immerse themselves and let their imaginations run wild as they explore natures playground, a haven for young adventurers. What truly sets this property apart are its breathtaking gardens - a labor of love that has blossomed into a living masterpiece created over almost four decades. Wander through the meandering paths, discover hidden nooks, and immerse yourself in the symphony of colours,

scents, and sounds.

This exceptional property offers a perfect blend of elegance, practicality, and natural beauty, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a luxurious and comfortable lifestyle.

Don’t miss the opportunity to make this extraordinary home your own.

Property Features:

• Turnkey – one owner home

• 5 bedrooms

• 3 living zones

Hardwood timber features throughout 3 metre ceilings

• Antique feature fireplace

• Gas ducted heating

• 2 x reverse cycle air conditioners

Ducted vacuum system

Open Fireplace

• Slow combustion wood fire

• Skylights

• Huge workshop

• Double garage

Bitumen Driveway

• Numerous brick paved outdoor areas

• Rainwater Tank Classic hills stone walls

• Fire pit

• Botanical gardens

Expansive lawn areas

This property has it all so don’t miss out

- CALL TO ARRANGE A PRIVATE INSPECTION TODAY! Call Aaron Day 0407 365 994 or Bethany Sullivan 0438 844 968.

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

Wrap around tessellated tiled verandahs

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.

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

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

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Age cap sparks division

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 chil-

dren,” 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 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 ageinappropriate 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 com-

mitted 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.”

In response to growing concerns for Australia’s youth, the Federal Government has proposed a social media age cap. (Unsplash)

Healesville are premiers

By Armin Richter

SENIORS

The Division 1 Grand Final between Healesville and Warburton-Millgrove took place on Saturday at Woori Yallock. With a cold front passing through there were intermittent showers and occasional hail as a large crowd assembled. The ground was firm but slippery with the wind favouring the Warburton Highway end.

These two clubs had never met in a Grand Final since the Warburton-Millgrove club was formed in 1967 through the merger of the Warburton Magpies (Black and White) and Millgrove (Blue and White), hence the club colours of black, white and blue. Prior to 1967 there had been numerous Grand Finals between Millgrove, Healesville and Warburton though. The first occasion was in 1914, when Millgrove defeated Healesville, through to 1962 where Healesville defeated Warburton. Healesville’s last premiership had been Division 1 (now Premier Division) in 2016 while Warburton-Millgrove had most recently won Division 2 (now Division 1) in 2006. Both of these proud clubs were looking to win and return to the top flight where they had not competed since before Covid.

Healesville went into the match as favourites, having defeated the Burras three times previously this season, however the margin in the Qualifying Final three weeks ago had been just 5 points. The Bloods had also come to notice this year after recruiting ex-AFL players Levi Greenwood (North Melbourne and Collingwood) and Aaron Edwards (West Coast, North Melbourne and Richmond) which had materially bolstered their side, having finished third last year.

Healesville had first use of the breeze and kicked the only two goals of the opening quarter. It was a tight arm wrestle in the second term as both sides were only able to add one goal each. The Bloods were doing most of the attacking in the third quarter but could register just one goal for their efforts as the Warburton backs held strong in a low scoring affair. For the final quarter the wind died down and the sun came out and with this Healesville put on a clinic, kicking 5.4 to 0.3, and running out convincing winners by 52 points.

• Healesville 9.9.63 defeated Warburton-Millgrove 1.5.11

• Best: Healesville - Levi Greenwood, Jason Savage, Liam Daly, Aaron Edwards, Jesse Bates, Nick Mende

• Warburton-Millgrove - Tyson Henry, Tom Barr, Jack Lee, Thomas Baker, Thomas Marr, Ben Pretty

• Goals: Healesville - Aaron Edwards 3, Jason Savage 2, Charlie Warren 1, Max Donegan 1, Dale Senior 1, Luke Potts 1

• Warburton-Millgrove - Thomas Marr RESERVES

Healesville weren’t to have it all their own way for the day as their Reserves went down to a gutsy Belgrave contingent. Belgrave had lost just once during the home and away season, which was to Healesville, but were then beaten again by the Bloods in the 2nd Semi Final a fortnight ago. The Magpies recovered to get to the big one and handled the greasy conditions better to win the Reserves premiership by 17 points.

• Belgrave 5.10.40 def Healesville 3.5.23

• Best: Belgrave - Patrick Beggs, Matthew Crichton, Robbie Bertalli, Daniel Noy, Caiden Bolger, Mark Francis

• Healesville - Ricky Hay, Casey Young, Max Renouf, Tom Campbell, Daniel Ebbels, Michael Evans

• Goals: Belgrave - Matthew Crichton 2, Daniel Noy 1, Harley McDermott 1, Alex Harvey 1

• Healesville - Rick Hay 2, Kobe Brown 1 UNDER 18s

The Under 18s Grand Final pitted the top two sides all year against each other. Most of the play was at the end favoured by the wind and it would be the Rovers who would triumph by 13 points.

• Mt. Evelyn 7.6.48 def Woori Yallock 5.5.35

• Best: Mt. Evelyn - not named

• Woori Yallock - Archie Spencer, Mason O’Neill, Harvey Smith, Zeke Dewhurst-Sibley, Hamish Murphy, Hunter Ryan

• Goals: Mt. Evelyn - Riley Jones 2, Asher Inaps 1, Brodie Hood 1, Blake Cherry 1, Jace Hamilton 1, Jasper Barry 1

• Woori Yallock - Hunter Ryan 1, Harvey Smith 1, Ronan Taylor 1, Mason O’Neill 1, Jack Freedman 1

NETBALL

Seville has a very strong netball program and made the Grand Finals in each of the Senior grades. The A Grade clash was an instant classic as the match went into overtime to decide a victor. Warburton-Millgrove prevailed by a solitary goal to snatch the premiership. Seville did however collect the other three flags.

Division 1 Netball Grand Final results

• A Grade - Warburton-Millgrove 43 def Seville 42

• B Grade - Seville 56 def Belgrave 34

• C Grade - Seville 36 def Yarra Glen 22

• D Grade - Seville 25 def Yarra Glen 21

PREMIER DIVISION FOOTBALL

It was Preliminary Final weekend at Officer on Sunday in the top Division. Fierce local rivals Woori Yallock and Wandin were to battle it out in the Seniors for the right to play Narre Warren in the Grand Final. While Narre Warren are newcomers to the Outer East, having joined in 2019, Woori Yallock and Wandin have been combatants since first meeting in July 1892, 132 years ago, in a match that was covered in the Lilydale Express. The two teams have been League powers for the past two decades, with both sides winning 5 premierships since 2001. Wandin are the reigning premiers while the Tigers haven’t claimed a flag for a decade since their 2012-14 three-peat, but have made the finals every year and were runners up in 2017, 2018 and 2022.

A cold wind blew at Officer but otherwise conditionsweregood.TheBulldogssetthepaceearly, getting out to a 21 point lead by quarter time and extending that to 40 points by the long break. In the second half Woori Yallock kept pace but were unable to make any inroads on the scoreboard as Wandin cruised to a 45 point victory. Aaron Mul-

lett and Brodie Atkins kicked 3 goals each for the Bulldogs. This now sets up a rematch of last years’ Grand Final - Narre Warren v Wandin. It will also be a rematch in the Reserves where Narre Warren will take on Upwey-Tecoma after overcoming Wandin. The Under 19s will be an all South East clubs affair as neighbours Pakenham and Officer will face off in the final

• Seniors - Wandin 15.8.98 def Woori Yallock 8.5.53

• Reserves - Narre Warren 9.7.61 def Wandin 7.5.47

• Under 19s - Officer 7.6.48 def Narre Warren 6.8.44

NETBALL

The netball will have a strong South East flavour in the Grand Finals next week, with only Mt. Evelyn (A Grade) and Wandin (C Grade) representing the Yarra Valley district out of the 8 teams in the open age Grand Finals. Wandin (Under 17s) and Monbulk (Under 15s) will also appear in two of the Junior Grand Finals to be played at Officer. Premier Division Preliminary Final results

• A GRADE - Narre Warren 58 def Wandin 40

• 17&Under Mixed - Wandin 37 def Pakenham 24

• 15&Under - ROC 45 def Narre Warren 10

Division 1 Senior Grand Final - Dale Senior (Healesville) marks against Warburton-Millgrove.

Division 1 Senior Grand Final - Healesville and Warburton-Millgrove players contest a mark.

Division 1 A Grade Netball Grand FinalWarburton-Millgrove defeated Seville 43-42.

Division 1 Reserves Grand Final - Belgrave defeated Healesville. (Supplied)

Division 1 C Grade Netball Grand Final - Seville defeated Yarra Glen.

Under 18s Grand Final - Mt Evelyn defeated Woori Yallock.

Locals stay competitive

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 seeing 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!

Briar Keyser put her best foot forward in the Division 2 relay race. (Supplied)

Katrina Winger joined the relay effort in an attempt to outdo Bendigo for the division promotion.