Mail - Mountain Views Star Mail - 24th September 2024
A piece of Lilydale and Yarra Valley’s history has been restored to its former glory thanks to the work of two men.
Lady Pamela Vestey, granddaughter of Dame Nellie Melba, was once the owner of a 1939 Sunbeam-Talbot Ten, a classic in the world of old cars.
As restorers and SunbeamTalbot enthusiasts, Terry Sully and Mal Clark couldn’t pass up the opportunity to save such an extraordinary vehicle when given the chance.
Over five weeks the pair worked to bring the car back to life, unveiling the working car on Wednesday 18 September.
To read more, turn to page 6
A road safety forum was held just two days before a fatality, highlighting...
By Dongyun Kwon
doing in terms of road trauma, as well as getting the community to have their input about any issues that they’ve identified so that we can address them and listen to their ideas and facts,” she said.
About 50 people attended the forum including emergency services members, police officers, representatives from Yarra Ranges Council and the Department of Transport and Planning along with local politicians.
Turn to pages 3 and 5
Sunbeam and Talbot Car Club members Terry Sully and Mal Clark worked to restore the 1939 car to its original running condition. (Mikayla van Loon: 433316)
Yarra Junction man unable to be saved
A 39-year-old male driver, identified as loving father Jason Wong, died after his vehicle rolled and pinned him underneath in Woori Yallock late on Wednesday 18 September.
It is understood a green Holden Commodore and a white Holden Commodore were travelling east along Warburton Highway at Wandin when the cars collided.
7News reported on 19 September that it was a road rage incident, after speaking with witnesses, where the driver of the green Commodore had been tailgating the Yarra Junction father who was driving the white car.
Police believe the pair continued to drive erratically along Warburton Highway before stopping near the intersection of Elvian Road at about 10pm.
Both drivers were said to have stopped but the driver of the green Commodore returned to his vehicle and drove away.
Wong got out to assess the damage at the rear
of his vehicle, before the car rolled and hit him, reportedly pinning him underneath from his chest down.
Witnesses told 7News they did everything they could to keep him calm and to get him out from under the vehicle.
“We spoke to him the whole time and I said ‘It’s OK mate I’m here, we’re gonna get you out’,” they said.
“He knew someone was there with him.”
He was treated by paramedics but died at the scene.
A GoFundMe was set up just days following to support the family, having already exceeded the $2500 target by Friday afternoon.
“Jason leaves behind his family and friends, but especially his adoring daughter Ashley,” it reads.
“Jason will always be remembered as a funny, devoted and loving dad to Ashley and he touched the lives of so many people.”
A post on the Yarra Valley Noticeboard urged drivers to take care.
“Tailgating is incredibly dangerous and causes accidents and costs lives,” it reads.
“I’d also like to take this moment to appeal to drivers in the Valley in general to wake up to what road rage and tailgating behaviour really does.”
Police are still seeking the identity of the driver of the green vehicle and urge him to come forward.
Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV, dashcam footage or any other information that could assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au
A serious collision involving a truck forced a lengthy closure of Melba Highway in Yering on Thursday 19 September.
The B-Double ran off the road into a paddock, just outside Yering Station, at around 8.21am, seeing the road close in both directions between Healesville-Yarra Glen Road and Macintyre Lane.
Coldstream CFA attended the scene alongside Victoria Police.
“Crews arrived to find a jack-knifed B-Dou-
ble which was leaking diesel, and a representative from the EPA was contacted,” a CFA spokesperson said.
“The incident was deemed under control at 8.44am and safe at 9.39am.”
None of the drivers were injured.
It took crews and emergency service workers much of the day to remove the truck.
The road was reopened at around 2pm, with traffic flowing in both directions.
“The Department of Transport and Planning thanks motorists for their patience during the closure,” a spokesperson said.
IN BRIEF
Alleged drink driving
An off-duty police officer was allegedly detected drink driving in Lilydale on Friday night.
The male sergeant, from eastern region, entered a booze bus location on Swansea Road about 8.30pm on Friday 20 September.
The 40-year-old man did a preliminary breath test, returning a positive result.
He underwent an evidentiary breath test, returning an alleged reading of .079.
He received an infringement notice for the drink driving offence and his license has been suspended for six months.
Local crews affected by paramedic shortfall
Montrose, Ringwood and Yarra Junction were among 30 ambulance branches in metro Melbourne to drop ambulance crews overnight on Saturday 14 September according to the Victorian Ambulance Union (VAU).
This was paired with at least 20 ambulances also dropped across rural Victoria because of high levels of sick leave.
The VAU stated there are normally approximately 120 ambulances working night shifts each night. On Saturday night only 90 were in action, leaving a significant shortfall of ambulance resources across the Metropolitan Region.
Union members reported the incidents to VAU, also saying that intensive care crews were dropped including MICA8 (Ringwood).
Other reports included:
• Multiple crews calling for Intensive Care back up for critically unwell patients told none are available.
• Code 1 cases held for over an hour for available crews.
• Crews driving 60km or more to get to Code 1 cases.
• Reports that the Metropolitan region dropped to one per cent fleet availability.
VAU secretary Danny Hill said warnings about staffing and conditions have issued.
“The members rarely get breaks, almost never finish on time and they are exhausted and burnt out. So, this is the reality we are facing,” he said.
“We have been warning about the need to better support the workforce, so we have a healthy and well-supported workforce. If you don’t support the workforce, then the response to the community suffers.”
Over 1000 Mini Coopers recalled 1408 BMW Mini Cooper SE with a year range of 2020 to 2023 have been recalled.
The high-voltage battery management software has insufficient protections for short circuit events. As a result, if a short circuit occurs it could lead to a vehicle fire whilst driving or parked.
A vehicle fire could increase the risk of serious injury or death to vehicle occupants, other road users, and bystanders, and/or damage to property.
Owners of affected vehicles should contact their preferred authorised MINI dealer to update the vehicle’s software, free of charge.
All vehicles require an urgent software update.
The new software includes a diagnostic function that reliably detects a battery malfunction and discharges the high-voltage battery to a level where a fire risk is not possible.
For more information, contact BMW Group Australia Recall Hotline via email info@bmw.com. au, by phone on 1800 243 675 or visit its website, mini.com.au/recalls
Melba Highway in Yering was closed in both directions on Thursday 19 September. (File: 303428)
A 39-year-old Yarra Junction man died after assessing his vehicle at Elvian Road when it rolled and hit him. (Google Maps)
NEWS Council candidates line up
The ballot has been drawn for the Yarra Ranges’ upcoming council elections, with changes potentially afoot with a number of new candidates vying for positions.
The official announcement was made on Wednesday 18 September after nominations closed at midday on Tuesday.
At the close of nominations, the Victorian Electoral Commission announced that this year 2231 candidates nominated for 646 council vacancies in 466 separate elections.
The number of candidates this year is higher than the 2186 candidates who nominated for 622 councillor vacancies in 298 separate elections at the 2020 council elections.
Across the Yarra Ranges there’s nine different wards each with one vacant position to be filled.
Two wards will go uncontested, with Richard Higgins for the Chirnside Ward and Fiona McAllister for the Ryrie Ward, holding their positions as the only nominations to be listed.
This means, at this election, residents in these wards will not be required to vote.
In total 42 of the 466 individual elections are uncontested.
Three wards, Chandler, Lyster and Streeton, will find themselves with a new councillor after David Eastham, Johanna Skelton and Andrew Fullagar respectively did not renominate for the 2024 election.
Veteran councillor Len Cox has renominated and if re-elected, it would make it over 40 years of service to the council - something he was recently recognised for by the Municipal Association of Victoria.
Candidates are as follows, in no particular order
Billanook:
• Wendy Wright
• Tim Heenan
Chandler:
• Ashley Hansen
• Belinda Grooby
• Gareth Ward
Lyster:
• Divesh Sareen
• Mick Spruhan
• Peter Mcilwain
Melba:
• Mitch Mazzarella
• Sophie Todorov
• Chris Templer
O’Shannassy:
• Jim Child
IF YOU’RE READY TO SWITCH TO ELECTRIC
• James Talbett
• Karen Duke
• Wil Mikelsons
• Dylan Little
• Jane Stormer
• Chloe Bond
Streeton:
• Jeff Marriott
• Sigrid Petersen
Walling:
• Len Cox
• David Ferrier
In the lead up to the election, Star Mail will be profiling each candidate, addressing their stance on issues, why they are running and what they would like to achieve if elected.
The ballot pack mail out begins on Monday 7 October with voting to close at 6pm on Friday 25 October. Postal votes must be received by 12pm Friday 1 November.
The Yarra Ranges Shire election office is located at the Silvan Public Hall, 271 Monbulk Road, Silvan.
All election results will be declared by Friday 15 November.
The local council election postal votes close on 25 October at 6pm. (Victorian Electoral Commission)
NEWS Forum tackles road safety
By Dongyun Kwon
On Monday 16 September, Yarra Valley Racing was crowded with people who were concerned about the road safety across the Yarra Ranges.
As Yarra Ranges is one of the high-risk police service areas associated with road trauma, Victoria Police hosted the forum to discuss road policing and road safety based on the statistics as well as to answer the questions raised by the community members.
Victoria Police Acting Senior Sergeant Laureina Everett said Yarra Ranges is one of the top three areas for serious injury and fatal collisions in the state.
“From our point of view as police, we want to speak to the community, engage with them and let them know what we’re doing in terms of road trauma, as well as getting the community to have their input about any issues that they’ve identified so that we can address them and listen to their ideas and facts,” she said.
The forum started with road trauma statistics presentation.
About 50 people attended the forum including emergency services members, police officers, representatives from Yarra Ranges Council and the Department of Transport and Planning along with local politicians.
Eildon MP Cindy McLeish said she attended the forum as roads are one of the biggest issues in her electorate.
“People are worried about the condition of the roads, the way people drive the roads and the policing on the roads,” she said.
“It’s really important to give this opportunity to community members, it’s really good to see all of the emergency services here as well because they are the first responders to accidents.”
Ms McLeish is worried about the State Government’s road policy as she claimed the government only focuses on the roads in the city and big suburbs.
“The State Government is broke, and they have so much responsibility for so many of the roads,” she said.
“My voice is to say you can’t put all your eggs in baskets in the city, in the big suburban projects, roads and rail projects, and ignore country roads.”
Yarra Ranges Council (YRC) has an internal maintenance team and contractors, who assist the council, to keep their roads up to scratch.
YRC infrastructure services manager Kim O’Connor said the council finds the community feedback in relation to the roads and conditions is important.
“Council has a large road network of approximately 1950km of sealed and unsealed roads, which we manage in line with our Road Management Plan and Asset Plan,” he said.
“Council has a maintenance budget of $22 million, and while we proactively inspect our large road network to ensure it’s efficiently maintained, we also encourage residents to report issues they come across, such as potholes, so that we can investigate and repair as soon as possible.”
Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence also attended the forum.
Ms Vallence said the forum was important because there’s been an increase in the number
of road trauma incidents and an increase in the number of deaths.
“Everyone should be able to get home safely, but, unfortunately, we had a record number of deaths on our roads last year,” she said.
“I wanted to come to make sure I support our emergency first responders who all contribute and help when it comes to tackling this real challenge.
“As a local MP, many people have contacted me about dangerous roads whether that be on Warburton Highway, Maroondah Highway or Melba Highway, even some of the smaller roads like Clegg Road in Wandin, and I’ve raised them in Parliament many times and written to the roads minister urging for action and allocating funding to fix these dangerous roads because that will go some way to helping reduce trauma on our local roads in the Yarra Ranges.”
After the presentation by Victoria Police, Yarra
Ranges Council and the Department of Transport and Planning, the attendees had a chance to ask their questions.
The panel, made up of the Eastern Region police officers, answered those questions.
Toolangi resident Adam Fletcher attended the forum to discuss two issues; potholes and tailgating.
Mr Fletcher said the forum covered the issues he wanted to hear about.
“I’ve just noticed, in general, drivers have become more dangerous with speeding in the last few years. There are a lot more large vehicles,” he said.
“I’ve reported four instances of serious tailgating to the police.
“I think education is key to solving these issues.”
After the forum, the attendees had time to ap-
proach any police officers to chat further.
Sgt Everett said road safety is everyone’s responsibility, not just Victoria Police’s.
“Throughout the event, we discussed all statistics in terms of serious injury and fatal collisions in the Yarra Ranges area, what local policing operations we’re doing to address this and also encouraging the community to report unethical driver behaviour, because they are our eyes and ears out on the road,” she said.
“So if they can feed that information back to us, then we can target and investigate and hold those road users accountable.
“We really encourage the community to make sure that they’re playing their part, their cars are registered and roadworthy, they have a driver’s licence, they’re driving to the conditions, and they’re not substance affected while they’re driving, they’re not being distracted by using their phones.”
Victoria Police Eastern Region Operational Support Superintendent Stephen Cooper answering a question. (Dongyun Kwon: 433196)
Yarra Ranges Council infrastructure services manager Kim O’Connor.
Department of Transport and Planning metro capital delivery director Fiona Green explaining the Montrose Intersection Upgrade.
Victoria Police Acting Senior Sergeant Laureina Everett leading the road trauma statistics presentation.
Restored to its former glory
By Mikayla van Loon
Some 85 years ago a young woman received a car for her 21st birthday.
That young woman just happened to be the late Lady Pamela Vestey, granddaughter of Dame Nellie Melba.
And the car, a 1939 Sunbeam-Talbot Ten, has re-emerged in its original working condition all thanks to the handy work of two restoration enthusiasts Terry Sully and Mal Clark.
But the story for them began much earlier than that, some 27 years ago when Lady Vestey was looking to get one more ride out of her beloved car.
At the time Mr Sully was president of the Sunbeam and Talbot Car Club of Victoria, and so receiving a call about vehicle in need of repair wasn’t uncommon but to travel to Coombe Cottage, that was slightly more unusual.
“Lady Pamela Vestey rang up and said, ‘I’ve got an old Sunbeam Talbot and I’d like to make a run again’. And ‘could somebody come up and have a look at it? Can you do that sort of thing?’,” he said.
“So I went up there. Mal went up there. Mal’s a restore extraordinaire, probably one of the best, he does beautiful work. We actually got the car to go within half an hour.
“And she got in and drove it around the farm and she said ‘I’m happy now, I’ve driven it again’.”
Mr Sully said from the one small interaction, he could tell she was “a very lovely lady, very easy to talk to”.
In those two and a half decades, Mr Sully said he hadn’t known what happened to the car, until once again he received a phone call inquiring about a valuation.
This time it was from Coombe Yarra Valley managing director Grant Cummin.
The historic Talbot had been safely tucked away in the stables, protected from the elements for all those years.
“There was no rust in it but when it was in the shed, the rats and mice, the vermin, ate away all the interior,” Mr Sully said.
The estate however, had spent quite a sub-
stantial amount on repairing and restoring the interior with new carpet and seating.
“I had no intention of buying the car but Mal and I were worried about what would happen to it,” Mr Sully said.
That’s all it took for Mr Sully to purchase the car and with the help of Mr Clark, bring it back to life.
“It’s only done 32,000 miles [50,000km]. Mal found under the bonnet, engraved under the bonnet, the engine’s been replaced. It’s done 500 miles. It’s a brand new engine,” Mr Sully said.
“The car basically hasn’t been used, and I can’t verify this, but it basically hasn’t been used for 75 years, minimum, because [Lady Vestey] bought a Holden and a Mercedes.
“We pulled the whole front of the car off, all the headlights, and pulled the radiator out, we couldn’t believe how well made the thing is.”
Mr Sully said over the five weeks it took to re-
Huey Helicopter finally finds its home
By Dongyun Kwon
A sculpture of The Bell UH-1 Iroquois helicopter has finally found its home in Gippsland.
The Bell UH-1 Iroquois helicopter, commonly known as the Huey helicopter, is one of the iconic equipment that was well used during the Vietnam War.
Yarra Glen RSL was planning to erect a scale model of a Huey helicopter in McKenzie Reserve adjacent to the WWI Cenotaph along ANZAC Avenue in Yarra Glen to commemorate Vietnam War veterans as there are more than 60 veterans living around the Yarra Valley.
Yarra Glen RSL vice president George Miller, who built the scale model, said the Yarra Glen RSL and Yarra Ranges Council couldn’t reach an agreement regarding the installation of the
helicopter despite about three years of negotiation.
“We couldn’t arrange it with the Yarra Ranges Council, so we thought ‘we’ll offer it to another RSL branch’ and Longwarry took up the offer,” he said.
“It’s going to be used for what it was built for.”
The local RSL branch decided to hand the sculpture over to Longwarry RSL in Gippsland because of its close association with the Vietnam Veterans Motorcycle Club located in the area.
The helicopter was sent on 12 August and has been mounted on a shipping container located near the Longwarry RSL clubrooms.
The container has also been painted to commemorate the Vietnam War.
store the old car to its original running condition,
“it was a labour of love”.
“That’s the thrill of doing up old cars, chasing the original parts, it’s a lot of fun,” he said.
Despite saying that it’s “chalk and cheese to modern cars”, Mr Sully said hearing the sound of the gears and all the work of the engine, makes for a joyous ride.
The only downside is the maximum speed of 30 miles per hour or around 60 kilometres per hour, a reason Mr Sully could understand Lady Vestey’s purchasing of a Mercedes instead.
Officially unveiling the Sunbeam-Talbot in its former glory on Wednesday 18 September in Mitcham, Mr Sully said “it’s a part of history”.
Now, the decision on where it will go next is still to be decided.
“I’m very careful where it’s going to go next. We’ve got interest from England on the car and I said no, it must stay in Australia,” Mr Sully said.
The ideal scenario, Mr Sully said, would be if it could stay in and around the Lilydale region, and in some way put on display to remain a part of history.
Car owner Terry Sully admiring the engine work. (433316)
Mr Sully added the indicators for safety purposes and the number plates are the original British standard. (433316)
The 1939 Sunbeam-Talbot Ten in gunmetal grey belonged to Lady Pamela Vestey. (433316)
Mr Sully and Mr Clark couldn’t believe the near perfect condition of the car despite being 85-years-old. (433316)
The ribbon cutting honour was given to Deakin MP Michael Sukkar on Wednesday 18 September. (Mikayla van Loon: 433316)
The scale model of a Huey helicopter was sent to Longwarry RSL on 12 August. (Supplied)
The scale model of the Huey helicopter with its sculptor George Miller. (Dongyun Kwon: 375787)
The helicopter has been mounted on a shipping container located near the Longwarry RSL clubrooms. (Supplied)
NEWS Survey results set for release
By Callum Ludwig
Voices for Casey are preparing to release the results of their recent 2024 Community Survey on Tuesday 24 September, with over 1000 responses received.
The release of the survey results comes ahead of the group’s preparation to announce their Independent candidate for next year’s Federal Election on Sunday 6 October.
President of Voices for Casey Dr Ani Wierenga said it was delightful to get so many responses.
“We really didn’t know when we went in, we had an aspiration of 1000 people and different voices from all over the electorate but we knew that could be hard to get,” she said,
“We had a team that was out there doing markets and talking to anybody they met, we had a team that was out letterbox dropping and inviting people to be part of this and we had Facebook, so it was a very open call and clearly people have responded,”
“They wanted to have their say, we’ve had people say ‘Nobody’s ever asked me what I prioritise, what I care about before’ and they’ve taken up the opportunity, which has been great.”
A preliminary report revealed to the Star Mail narrowed down nine key findings from the survey which took 1039 responses from the electorate of about 123,000 people, while recounted information from Voices for Casey’s ‘Kitchen Table Conversation’ events also considered, with nine of these events held and over 43 people attending.
Dr Wierenga said they expected diverse opinions from the diverse voices of the electorate and they got them.
“We are sitting here with some of the different findings and the different concerns, especially the free text responses to questions like ‘What did we miss?’ and ‘Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?’ because you don’t want to just go out and ask questions to hear back about your own agendas,”
“We noticed that about 50 per cent of people came to us through direct face-to-face means and
the other 50 per cent came in through social media, and we also noticed that there were surges throughout the day on the social media, so clearly people sitting down to do surveys in their evenings on a weekend, so you could watch the numbers ticking over in the survey,”
“But it was really good to have the face-to-face as well because that allowed people to have significant conversations about what was important to them or why it mattered that they were even asked and how, in fact, this report could become the basis for some accountability processes.”
Voices for Casey found from the survey:
• Voters ‘want to have a voice’ and are prepared to talk about the issues they are concerned about
• Like living in Casey and want political support to maintain and build on it
• Want to be listened to and don’t want their representative to be constrained by party politics
• Are worried about the cost of living, particularly the prices of groceries, electricity and gas as well as housing affordability and availability
• Concerned about mental health, physical health, domestic violence and growing wealth inequality issues and how they are interconnected
• Climate and environment are important, including issues regarding emergency preparedness and infrastructure failure
• Against the privatisation of essential services and want public funds spent better
• Want ‘the big end of town’ to pay tax and stop price-gouging consumers
• Want elected representatives to take national security and our international standing seri-
ously.
Dr Wierenga said they’ll now be looking at the elected representatives at the federal, state and local government levels and seeing how their voting behaviours are matching the local people’s expressed priorities.
“What we know is that there are some very clear messages there in terms of people’s priorities and also that we have heard through the focus groups some fairly consistent messaging too about a sense that people are looking for a greater voice and stronger representation of local needs and we’ll be bringing a copy of it to each of our local representatives next week,” she said.
“For example, one of the things that surprised me is the extent to which the Great Forest National Park is a real concern on both sides of a debate and maybe there are more than two sides to it, that’s coming through fairly loudly.”
CheersTo21YearsofShedfest!
The annual Yarra Valley Shedfest Wine Festival is returning in spring 12-13 October, proudly celebrating the providence of grape-to-glass production of locally produced, premium wine.
Hosted by Yarra Valley Smaller Wineries Association (YVSWA), the collective two day event sees over a dozen family-owned wineries open their cellar doors and wine sheds to celebrate the new vintage in style.
Adding to the excitement, Star Mail & Shedfest have 4 weekend double passes to giveaway to readers!
Over 1000 people responded to Voices for Casey’s Community Survey. (File)
Zonzo shines at awards
By Dongyun Kwon
A signature limoncello spritz led a Yarra Valley winery to be on top and full of glory.
Yarra Glen based winery, restaurant and wedding venue Zonzo Estate has won two awards at the 2024 Supplier of the Year Award for its efforts on innovation of its products, especially its iconic drink Zoncello Limoncello Spritz.
Zonzo Estate director Rod Micallef said the team is proud to have won the awards.
“We just have a lovely feeling to see that all our teamwork and effort have paid off and been recognised,” he said.
Mr Micallef established Zonzo Estate in 2007, starting the restaurant and wedding venue first, then following it up with a vineyard and winery in 2015.
The Small Supplier of the Year (Retail) award was given to Zonzo Estate for its innovation in expanding to spirits, liqueurs and beer.
Endeavour Group fine wine head Andrew Shedden said it’s been amazing working with Zonzo Estate and seeing how they’ve captured everyone’s hearts.
“These guys have really knocked it out of the park with their innovation this year,” he said.
“Zonzo’s journey from local favourite to a national sensation is exactly the kind of success story we love.
“Hats off to the Zonzo team for their creativity and hard work – we’re excited to see what’s next on the menu.”
Zonzo Estate’s Zoncello Limoncello Spritz was awarded the Product Innovation of the Year which recognises product innovation that contributes to the acceleration or transformation of its category or develops a new sub-category through either recruiting new customers or creating new occasions.
Mr Micallef said the Product Innovation of the Year is something that they are extremely proud of as they have tried to keep innovating and leading in the market.
“We had Australia’s first bottled Peach Bellini, which is a peach nectar with prosecco,” he said.
“We had the world’s first pre-mixed limoncello spritz Zonzocello Limoncello Spritz and we had another world first product, Cicchio Pistacchio Spritz, which we just launched in June this year.
“We keep leading the way, creating trends and attracting new age drinkers to the wine category.”
Zonzocello Limoncello Spritz has the nickname Sunshine in a Bottle although it’s popular not only in the spring and summer but also throughout winter.
Mr Shedden said Zonzo Estate has absolutely nailed it with the Zoncello Limoncello Spritz.
“This drink is the perfect mix of the lemony goodness everyone loves and the convenience of a ready-to-serve bottle,” he said.
“It’s no wonder it’s become such a hit! Working with Zonzo to get this to market has been a fantastic journey, and we couldn’t be happier to see our
customers loving it all year round.
“Big congrats to the Zonzo team for their awesome work and for setting the bar so high.”
The awards was hosted by Endeavour Group at the Accor Stadium in Sydney’s Olympic Park on Thursday 12 September.
Squitchy Lane claims trophy at Yarra Valley Wine Show
By Dongyun Kwon
The perfect climate of the Yarra Valley has enabled the success of getting the beautiful taste of Cabernet Sauvignon over the years, which eventually fascinated the judges in the 2024 Yarra Valley Wine Show.
Squitchy Lane was awarded the Dr Bailey Carrodus Memorial Perpetual Wine of Provenance Trophy for its Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, 2018 and 2014.
Squitchy Lane owner Mike Fitzpatrick said the Squitchy Lane team was chuffed with winning the trophy.
“It is a great honour to accept this trophy, which recognises our ability to produce outstanding Cabernet from our six hectares of vines, originally planted in 1982,” he said.
“It is also a tribute to the hard work of the winemaking team and in particular to the hard work of the vineyard manager, Steve Sadlier over many years.”
The Dr Bailey Carrodus Memorial Perpetual Wine of Provenance Trophy is a unique award as it is judged on three different vintages of the same label that must be spread over a minimum of eight vintages.
There must be a minimum three year spread between vintages.
The wines are judged for their consistency and excellence across the vintages, as well as the ability of the wine to age.
Squitchy Lane vineyard manager Steve Sadlier said the sunshine in the Cabernet season is one of the keys to producing good quality Cabernet Sauvignon.
“From the vineyard point of view, the site here receives enough sunshine and warmth to ripen it to full maturity on the vine,” he said.
“The Valley Floor, which is where we are,
suits Cabernet generally a lot more compared to the Upper Yarra because we get that extra warmth.
“Cabernet likes warmth, particularly in the autumn period, when it ripens in March and April, it loves a lot of water and but sometimes the Upper Yarra gets too cool.”
Mr Fitzpatrick is a legend in Australian rules football who played for Carlton in the 70s and 80s winning two premierships.
The name Squitchy Lane came from a street
in Oxford, UK, recalling where the owner had lived in the 70s for study, where he first began his foray into wine as well as started going out with his now wife Helen Sykes.
The history of Squitchy Lane started as the footy legend bought into the place for a weekender in 2000 although it took about five more years to launch his own brand.
“But it also had a contract for one of the small producers to take the grapes and bottle them up in a market brand,” Mr Fitzpatrick said.
“Unfortunately, he was unable to keep that going, so in the end we were left with a vineyard which we didn’t know much about what to do.
“But we had an interest and we set about trying to produce a brand and to put together a really excellent wine.”
Over 20 years of the consistent effort of producing wine that exhibits the characteristics of the vineyard site and the influence of the particular vintage has paid off at the Yarra Valley Wine Show awards night on Thursday 12 September.
Squitchy Lane staff, (L-R): Jo McEniery, Simon Wiener, Gordon Rumball, Mike Fitzpatrick, Steve Sadlier and Ron Craigie. (Mike Emmett)
The perfect climate in the Valley Floor is key to producing a good quality Cabernet Sauvignon. (Supplied)
L-R: Andrew George from Yarra Yering, Mike Fitzpatrick and Steve Sadlier. (Mike Emmett)
L-R: Endeavour Group managing director and chief executive officer Steve Donohue, Zonzo Estate sales director Rob Arkesteijn, Zonzo Estate director Rod Micallef and Endeavour Group merchandise and buying director Tim Carroll. (Supplied)
Zonzo Estate is located in Yarra Glen.
The Small Supplier of the Year (Retail) award was given to Zonzo Estate for its innovation in expanding to spirits, liqueurs and beer.
College scores a wine win
By Callum Ludwig
The Upper Yarra Secondary College’s (UYSC) flourishing vineyard can now count an award amongst their achievements in grape-growing.
At the recent 2024 Endeavour Group Yarra Valley Wine Show, UYSC’s Junction Street & Co 2023 Pinot Noir took out Best Small Batch Red Wine.
VET teacher Marcus Cook, who has led the vineyard operations at the school, said they feel pretty lucky to have entered the award and won a gold medal.
“The gold medal means we’ve scored 95 out of 100 from the judges so we got that as our first award and then because we’re a smaller vineyard, we won the Best Small Batch Red Wine competition,” he said.
The school’s vineyard is supported by Oakridge Wines, owned by the Endeavour Group, and their Vineyard Manager Steve Faulkner. Their support has helped UYSC this year to launch their product, now stocked at BWS and Dan Murphy’s.
Mr Cook said when they won the award, the importance of encouraging youth in the Yarra Valley to get into the industry was stressed.
“The Yarra Valley Wine Show was like generally supportive of our endeavours and said the future of the industry starts in programs that we run, we had some advice early on that the more hands you get in the vineyard, the better quality wine that can be produced,” he said.
“Winning our awards is evidence of that, we have all these students and staff helping out in the vineyard to create the best quality product and now it’s something to hang our hat on and for the whole school community to be proud of.”
The Junction Street & Co 2023 Pinot Noir has been available for purchase at the Chirnside Park and Yarra Junction BWS as well as Dan Murphy’s stores in:
Chirnside Park, Boronia, Ringwood, South Morang, Bulleen, Eltham, Doncaster East, Fishermans Bend, Brighton, Ascot Vale, Hawthorn East, Alphington, Malvern East, Prahran, Richmond, South Melbourne, Kew, Malvern, Camberwell, Brunswick East, Prahran Cellar, Collingwood, Spotswood and Balwyn.
Mr Cook said right now, they are getting into the bud burst stage at the moment, the first sign
of what their next vintage’s crop will look like and when they can cut into buds to see how much fruit they are carrying. “We’ve just got to start some of the desuckering and we’re trialling some digital technologies in the vineyard with digital readings of minerals in the soil and also running a digital weather station to help us further analyse the progress and when we need to spray, just adding that extra level of understanding of our vine-
yard by using new technology,” he said.
“We just want to say a huge thanks to the Endeavour Group and Oakridge Wines for all their support over the last few years to get us up here at Upper Yarra Secondary College to have the Junction Street vineyard as a product that the community can be proud of and can purchase at the local shops.”
Wandin North among schools to receive more funding
Wandin North Primary School was announced as one of the recipients of State Government funding to ensure essential maintenance projects can be achieved.
Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing recently announced schools in the area are among the 59 to share in over $20 million in funding for 62 maintenance projects under the Planned Maintenance Program (PMP).
“As our work continues to build and upgrade schools across the region, this maintenance funding is making a really positive difference to the amenity and accessibility for more students, teachers and staff,” she said.
The schools to receive funding in the September allocation include Wandin North Primary School.
The PMP provides funding to address highpriority maintenance issues across Victoria’s government schools.
The program ensures schools can undertake essential work in classrooms and other school buildings such as fixing roofs and replacing win-
dows, painting, and resurfacing floors, as well as some external works like improving pathways.
Works are determined by a rolling facilities evaluation process, which provides up-to-date information on the condition of schools to create a faster and more targeted allocation of funding.
The Victorian Government has invested $16.9 billion over the past 10 years to build new schools and deliver more than 2,200 school upgrades - supporting more than 26,000 jobs in construction and associated industries.
It is now ahead of schedule in its commitment to open 100 new schools by 2026, with 75 new schools opening between 2019 and 2024.
The Victorian Government is building the Education State so every student can access a great local school and a quality education no matter where they live.
For a list of schools receiving funding under the Planned Maintenance Program, visit schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/planned-maintenance-program.
Wandin North Primary School received funding in the September maintenance program round. (File: 302392)
UYSC vineyard students with the Best Small Batch Red Wine trophy. (Supplied)
News never more vital
By Paul Thomas*
On this World News Day, we are reminded of the invaluable role journalism plays in safeguarding our democracy, especially in regional and local towns across Australia. While global headlines may dominate, it’s the local stories that are the heartbeat of our communities. Public interest journalism serves not only as a watchdog but also as a bridge between the people and their local governments, businesses, and neighbours.
In regional and local towns, local newspapers are often the sole providers of information that directly impacts residents’ daily lives. From covering council meetings to reporting on issues like infrastructure development or the success of local businesses, these newspapers perform a critical function. When journalists shine a light on important issues, they empower their communities to engage, voice concerns, and demand accountability.
At Star Mail, we believe that public interest journalism is essential for the health of our democracy. In an age of misinformation and dwindling trust, our mission is to provide fact-based
reporting that our readers can rely on. While we operate in a rapidly changing media landscape, the core values of journalism remain unchanged: truth, transparency, and a commitment to the communities we serve.
The rise of social media has fundamentally transformed how we consume information, with both positive and negative consequences. While platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have connected us in new and powerful ways, they have also become breeding grounds for misinformation, deep fakes, and viral falsehoods. With content increasingly manipulated, from deep fake videos to entirely fabricated news stories, it has become harder for people to distinguish fact from fiction. This erosion of trust threatens the very foundation of informed communities and societies.
In contrast, local newspapers provide a crucial counterbalance to this tide of disinformation. Our journalists work tirelessly to deliver stories grounded in facts, verified by trusted sources, and shaped with balance. When you read your local newspaper, either in print or online, you can
trust that the information is accurate, relevant, and serves the best interests of your community. Local newspapers are more than just sources of news; they are the defenders of truth in a noisy and often confusing media landscape.
As technology and media consumption habits continue to evolve, local journalism must adapt. However, the mission remains the same: telling stories that matter, holding the powerful to account, and keeping the public informed. Newspapers, particularly in regional and local towns, have a duty to remain trusted sources of news for the communities they serve.
In a time when misinformation and falsehoods spread rapidly, let’s make sure the truth rings louder. By supporting local journalism, we strengthen not just our media but the very fabric of our regional and local towns. Together, we can ensure that truth and integrity remain at the heart of our communities.
* Paul Thomas is the owner and managing director of the Star Mail Group. He has worked in newspapers all his life and is a former president and life member of Country Press Australia.
Leap into literacy learning for adults at Your Library
By Christine Yunn-Yu Sun
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.
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.
“Our whole purpose is to work beside the learner, supporting them to achieve the goal or goals they have as an individual.
“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 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).
Surveying adults worldwide between the ages of 16 and 65, the study assesses the skills of literacy, numeracy and problem-solving in technology-rich environments.
The 2010 PIAAC study indicated that 44 per cent of Australian adults have low literacy.
According to James, these people are often highly intelligent and independent.
They have jobs and families, and have figured out how to survive and thrive in this very literate world.
But James stresses: “I don’t think most people really understand how prevalent low-literacy is among Australian adults.”
Indeed, the biggest MISCONCEPTION is that most people can read and write – that only those with disabilities, learning difficulties, low IQ or CALD backgrounds struggle with reading and writing.
As the statistics show, this is NOT the truth.
“Many adults fell through the cracks at school. They may not have been diagnosed with a learning or neurological disorder as a child or they didn’t have the right supports to cope. They may have experienced shame, trauma, illness, or interrupted schooling, especially in those very early years which put them behind from the start.”
“Our students are no different. When they come to us asking for support, they are being incredibly vulnerable. They often have had poor experiences at school and have low confidence in their own abilities. This can mean they come with their own anxieties about the program.”
As James explains, Your Library offers an encompassing collection of Adult Literacy resource books and readers that are written for adults of different abilities.
There’s also a quarterly network meeting
where volunteer tutors share their ideas and how they have worked around various issues.
They also receive professional training that assists them going forward.
Your Library further collects anecdotal evidence in terms of feedback.
“Our students are consistently providing our program with positive feedback, sharing with us that they have more confidence, they have found pleasure in reading, and they have stepped out of their comfort zone and joined in other community programs like the Men’s Shed,” James said.
“Our volunteers take pride in the achievements of their students. They get joy out of watching their confidence grow or hearing about how their tutoring has helped them in areas they didn’t even think about.”
James is the first person to serve as Your Library’s Regional Literacy Officer since the role’s establishment in 2021.
Her key responsibilities are to uphold the organisation’s vision of “Literacy and access for all – no one left behind”.
Working across 14 library branches throughout the region, James organises literacy-based programs that support the varied needs of our communities.
Apart from “Leap into Literacy”, she has also considerably expanded Your Library’s conversational English program.
Most impressively, James has helped strengthen, reestablish and/or initiate partnerships with a wide range of community organisations – including community houses, welfare providers and Centrelink – to ensure that Your Library remains the vital community space it is.
“Hopefully, this can encourage those who have literacy gaps to see us as a place that they are just as entitled to utilise as someone with high levels of literacy. I really like to tell people libraries are more than just books!”
Please note the “Leap into Literacy” program currently has enough volunteers but is always open to students.
For Your Library’s other literacy support service, see: yourlibrary.com.au/literacy-supportservices/
Volunteer graduation: September 2022. (Supplied)
Barbara and Lydia working together. (Supplied)
Volunteer graduation from June-July 2024. (Supplied)
March 2024 graduates. (Supplied)
Resources. (Supplied)
Star Mail owner and director Paul Thomas.
Play for toy lovers on way
By Dongyun Kwon
A play for toy lovers is coming to Healesville for the first time.
Velveteen Rabbit is a show performed by a Melbourne theatre company Born in a Taxi, based on a children’s book written 100 years ago by Margery Williams during the Scarlet Fever epidemic.
Born in a Taxi co-artistic director Carolyn Hanna said it is about a toy that becomes real and deals beautifully with exploring ideas of what it is to be real and how one becomes who one really is.
“In true Born in a Taxi style, we have made this story our own where everyone brings their own favourite soft toy to the show,” she said.
“In this show, the toys are charged and they are not making a theatre show, they are making a movie so the kids in the audience and their VIP toys become extras in the movie being made on stage.
“There is live video projection, audience participation, live music and a set that plays with scale from the miniature to the gigantic.”
Established in 1989, Born in a Taxi is one of
Melbourne’s most highly regarded, award-winning physical theatre ensembles and creators of contemporary performance, recognised for producing highly original, physically driven, and participatory works in theatres, site-specific and outdoor contexts.
Immediacy, responsiveness and play are at the centre of everything they do.
Their works have been expanded to the international stage as well, as Born in a Taxi has toured the USA, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Belgium, France, the UK and New Zealand.
“We were lucky enough for The Memo to see a pitch we did and liked it so much they wanted to bring it here,” Ms Hanna said.
“Penny, Born in a Taxi’s co-artistic director, has a personal relationship with Healseville going back over a decade, spending time with her Dad and family here, watching and listening to lyrebirds.”
The play will be held at The Memo, Healesville from 11am on Saturday 5 October.
For more information and to purchase a ticket, please visit the following link, yarraranges.vic. gov.au/Experience/Events/Velveteen-Rabbit
TOP DOGS COME OUT TRUMPS
With another home and away season behind us, the annual Star Mail Footy Tipping has concluded for another year. It was again this year a year of heart and passion being put on the line by our tipsters who gave it their all including reputations on the line each week to be the top dog in the tipping pool .
With many times over the season seeing both good and bad tipping alike and the lead changing numerous times over the season but in the end, it was down to the final round of the home and away season to see Greg Spence from Seville Garden Supplies this year take out the chocolates & take out top prize to beat Sam Failla of Sam Failla’s Quality Meats by two tips.
Greg has courtesy of Ken & Helen Hunt from Monbulk Jewellers won a great $500 voucher to spend in store –happy shopping Greg. Whilst Sam has also received second prize also from our great sponsors, at Harry Brown Liquor Lilydale with a $500 voucher to spend in store. I am sure Sam will have fun picking out some great products there –congratulations.
We thank you both and hope you enjoy your prizes and look forward to another hardly fought competition in 2025.
Sam Failla - Sam Failla’s Quality Meats
Greg Spence - Seville Garden Supplies
Velveteen Rabbit is based on a children’s book written 100 years ago by Margery Williams. (Supplied)
Born in a Taxi’s works have been expanded to the international stage. (Bryony Jackson)
TERM 4 COURSE GUIDE
Knit, natter for good cause
Sticks and Hooks started as a knitting and crochet group within the Yarra Glen and District Living and Learning Centre in 2017 following on from previous craft groups Crafty Mix and Unfinished Business which ran for many years.
It quickly grew to become a group working towards helping our community. They started knitting squares to create blankets. Then they turned the squares into scarves, mittens, vests and many other items. The community started to knit squares and donate wool for them, so they then spent more time putting squares together rather than creating them; they have had a continuing supply ever since.
The group has supported many communities in need including:
• HICCI.
• Holy Fools (scarves, beanies, jumpers for school kids and the homeless).
• Lilydale Pathology (teddy bears for kids).
• Tarralla Aged Care (knitted and crocheted blankets), Yarra Glen Medical Centre.
• and many other community groups and individuals.
Sticks and Hooks social group come together on the last Tuesday of the month from 10am, whether you’re a novice or experienced you are welcome, come along and get creative with yarn. Donations of wool or knitting supplies are always welcome.
Please contact Lisa or Julie at the Centre 9730 2887 for all enquiries.
Left to right Alison Gommers (HICCI), Ann Aspinal, Jane Calder, Genie Manser, Mary Pinder and Jill Sheffield have supported organisations like HICCI through knitting. (Stewart Chambers: 431637)
TERM 4 COURSE GUIDE
Where carers are cared for
At Seville Community House, we deeply appreciate the unwavering dedication of carers within our community —those who provide unpaid support to loved ones with health conditions, disabilities, or age-related challenges. Carers are the backbone of our community, offering care and compassion that profoundly impact those they assist. Yet, carers often face emotional and physical demands and deserve the same level of care and support they provide to others.
To address this, Seville Community House launched the Carers Program designed to deliver practical assistance, emotional support, and a sense of belonging. The program began with a successful Carers Day in July, made possible through generous grants from the Yarra Ranges Council and the Community Bank Wandin-Seville. Local businesses also contributed to pamper packs, adding to the event’s success. Carers enjoyed wellness activities, relaxation, and informative sessions on support services, giving them a well-deserved break. The positive feedback underscored the importance of creating dedicated spaces for carers to unwind and connect.
But our commitment to supporting carers extends well beyond a single event. We are dedicated to providing ongoing assistance through quarterly meetings, a direct response to the requests from carers themselves. These regular gatherings will include a variety of activities such as informative sessions on the latest support services, inspirational talks from guest speakers, engaging crafts, self-care workshops, and community outings. Each session is thoughtfully designed to offer carers a safe and welcoming environment where they can share their experiences, exchange advice, and build meaningful connections with their peers. By fostering this supportive network, we help carers manage their responsibilities more effectively while also prioritising their own well-being.
At Seville Community House, our vision is clear: no one in our community should ever feel isolated or unsupported. By focusing on the needs of carers, we are not only enhancing their lives but also strengthening the entire fabric of
our community. Supportive carers contribute to a healthier, more resilient society. We warmly invite all carers to join our program and become part of our supportive community. For more information about the Carers
deserve.
you receive the
Program, please visit our website or stop by Seville Community House. Our dedicated team is here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring that
care and support you
The successful program launch day in July was met with numerous carers finding support.
Seville Community House provides a safe space for carers to meet and talk with like-minded people. (Supplied)
Bloods lift the silverware
By Dongyun Kwon
It is much more thrilling when facing a rival in an important match.
Healesville Seniors faced their biggest rival Warburton-Millgrove, leaving one more step to lift the flag on Sunday 15 September.
The Bloods dominated the ball throughout the grand final match and were successful in making the last step to grab the trophy.
Healesville senior coach Ryan Webster, who has coached the team for two years, said the team had a great season after taking a lesson from the defeat by Emerald at the preliminary final last season.
“It’s been a lot of fun, we knew what we had to try and achieve after a little bit of heartache last year losing the preliminary final,” he said.
“We made sure we challenged each other and got better at the things we fell down in the last season and just changed a few things around, structured up slightly differently.
“Obviously, we got the result that we were chasing and winning the flag.”
Healesville Seniors were defeated three times during this season.
From the failure of the last season and the losses during the season, the team could find out what to improve to achieve their goal of winning the flag.
Webster said the team had to deal with the crises wisely to bounce back.
“The focus for this year was keeping it simple because that’s what we do in games of football, being able to do simple things more often than what the opposition does,” he said.
“We made sure that we improved on our structures and processes that we embedded into the system last season.
“We had our backs against the wall amongst a few things that popped up over the year and had three losses throughout the year.
“They taught us a lot about where we’re at and what we needed to improve on to make sure we tightened up on the areas that we were lacking in those three games that we lost.”
The Bloods won Warburton-Millgrove, Seville and Warburton-Millgrove again in finals to stand on top.
The final score of the grand final between Healesville Seniors and Warburton-Millgrove Senors was 9.9 63 vs 1.5 11.
Webster said his team was strong in the last quarter throughout the season.
“Our first in the finals was against Warburton where they challenged us all the way, and we were able to stick to our processes and follow our game style, and then we were able to get across them and over the top of them in the last quarter by five points,” the coach said.
“The second game was against Seville, a similar position, hotly contested game, and very good opposition. Seville has beaten us twice throughout the year and in the end, we were able to make a couple of positional changes that enabled us again to have a really strong last quarter in order to win that game.
“The grand final was again a very close game, up until three quarter time, both teams had their opportunities, we controlled the ball a little bit
better than what they did at times, which was able to give us the leads that we had at quarter time, half time and three quarter time, and then we made sure that our last quarter in the last game of the year was one of the best ones.”
Even Healesville Reserves made it to the grand final, although it didn’t end as what the whole Bloods had expected.
The Reserves tasted the bitter feeling when they had to see their grand final opponent Bel-
grave lift the trophy.
The final score of the Healesville Reserves’ grand final against Belgrave was 3.5 23 vs 5.11 41.
The coach said the success of both teams was all thanks to club effort and support from the Healesville community.
“We have a very strong player driven program, and we get really good buy in from all the players,” Webster said.
“We obviously had some new recruits that came to the club this year who brought into what we were trying to achieve and what we were all about as a football club and the culture we were trying to hire at the football club.
“Support that the club got from our community in Healesville is amazing. It’s obviously a small little town and the whole community gets behind the football club, and it’s great we can achieve some success for Healesville.”
L-R: Daniel Plozza (captain), Ryan Webster (coach) and Nick Mende (captain) holding up the premiership cup. (BH Photography)
Healesville Seniors, the premiers of the 2024 season. L-R: Campbell Frazzetto, Steve Watkins and Shaun Donkin celebrating the win.
L-R: Jesse Bates and Connor Ballingal celebrating the win.
The Heal Healesville esville Football Netball Club
are proud to be the 2024 OEFN Division 1 Football Premier and would like to thank our players, members, supporters, community and particularly our sponsors for the support you have shown us throughout the season.
We couldn’t do it without your support.
We look forward to new players, volunteers and sponsors joining our football and netball program in 2025 All enquiries to hfnc3777@gmail.com
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
ACROSS
1 Well pleased (9)
6 German automobile manufacturer (4)
10 Prefix denoting reversal (3)
11 Formal statement about another’s character (11)
12 Former US first lady, – Obama (8)
13 Counterreply (6)
14 Bird’s home (4)
15 Instructor (7)
20 Traditions (7)
21 Edible rootstock (4)
25 Recess (6)
26 In a smooth and effortless manner (8)
28 Donated (11)
29 Ocean (3)
30 Good fortune (4)
31 Preceding day (9)
DOWN
1 Lees (8)
2 Case that sets a precedent (4,4)
3 Furniture item (6)
4 Unable to pay (9)
5 Speaker’s platform (4)
7 Tandem (6)
8 Water-surrounded land mass (6)
9 Supervisors (7)
16 Finishes (9)
17 Corrupt (7)
18 Being admitted to a church (8)
19 Having multiple wives or husbands (8)
22 Package (6)
23 Picturesque (6)
24 Heckle (6)
27 Web auction site (4)
Sheen Panel Service has been a trusted name in Victoria for over 50 years, as a family owned and operated business with a reputation of quality and value.
Known for unbeatable customer service, using genuine parts and qualified technicians, the team at Sheen is committed to being ahead of the game, adapting to new technologies and following trends to offer the best.
Sheen Lilydale is no different. As the 27th location to open across the state, you can trust it comes with a backing of satisfied and returning customers.
Opening last November, area manager Scott Purdey said in that time the business has grown steadily and is becoming more known in the community.
“We have maintained a steady flow of work, grown and invested training and time into our technicians while building relationships with local businesses and ingraining our name and reputation into the community,” he said.
Understanding that smash repairs can be an extremely stressful time for some one, Sheen aims to ease the burden and pressure by having a fleet of cars ready to loan you and communicat-
ing at every stage.
“We want to make sure we are able to help ease some of those nerves and guide them through a painless experience,” Mr Purdey said.
Not only does Sheen offer great person-toperson communication, they are also skilled in electric vehicle technology and offer extended trading hours to provide customers the times that work best for them.
Nearing the one year anniversary of Sheen Lilydale, Mr Purdey said the greatest achievement has been seeing the company come leaps and bounds.
“When we opened last year, we had one apprentice and one panel beater. Now we have a full team who have grown together,” he said.
“Everyone employed at Sheen Lilydale is a local. They know the area, the people and the local businesses. They are committed to bringing that community mindset into the business environment.”
Sheen Lilydale is currently offering a $600 excess reduction for customers.
Find Sheen Lilydale at 56 John Street Monday to Friday between 7am and 5.30pm or call 9088 8688.
The team from Sheen Panels Lilydale offer quality service and friendly communication. (Stewart Chambers: 431641) Technician Matt is just one of the highly trained and qualified technicians ready to help. (431641)
Naturopathic medicine is founded on the premise that there is an underlying vital force in our bodies that orchestrates balance, harmony and function.
This innate intelligence involves a complex array of communication systems to self regulate and repair as well as resolve immune challenges.
Balance with natural meds Healthy living
More and more people are looking to natural alternatives nowadays.
Sometimes a stand alone alternative is sufficient whether it be a herbal mix, nutritional formula, change of diet or environmental assessment of their home. In more common scenarios, a blended approach of integration with allopathic and complementary medicine gives excellent outcomes.
In reality significant numbers of Australians live daily with chronic disease.
In some cases there are multiple conditions.
This can be most distressing and cause much suffering but it doesn’t have to be that way.
Many conditions improve with a integrative approach.
One of natural medicine strengths lies in its ability to recognise people as individuals rather
CARTOON
Tim Howden Paediatric Naturopath
than a diagnosis.
People with stories and significant past events that have impacted their present health condition.
If you are struggling to achieve good health outcomes and have not considered a more holistic approach, it may interest you to broaden the horizon.
A skilled and degree qualified practitioner will always have a methodical patient centred approach and utilise the tools within their training to ease suffering and improve outcomes.
And always, with out causing harm.
Be well.
Full of The Substance
The Substance Starring Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley and Dennis Quaid R18+
4.5/5
Written and directed by Coralie Fargeat, The Substance is a bonkers, utterly brilliant sci-fi body horror film.
Ageing TV star Elisabeth Sparkles (Demi Moore) creates a younger version of herself named Sue (Margaret Qualley) through a macabre procedure, only for the process to spiral out of control.
The Substance is a repulsive but riveting film riddled with layered suspense, social commentary and pitch-black comedy.
Moore delivers a career-best performance of desperation, frustration with the status quo, and horror and resentment as the procedure goes awry, and Qualley is sexy and subtly sinister as Sue.
The film examines the commodification of women’s bodies and the extreme idolisation of youth in popular media, with Dennis Quaid as Elisabeth/Sue’s theatrical, slimy boss Harvey, but also how some women tear each other down instead of supporting each other, with Sue figuratively cannibalising her older self to maintain her youth.
The Substance is 140 minutes long but doesn’t feel like it, weaving Sue’s growing career, the mutating Elisabeth’s helplessness and
Book review of The Ledge by Christian White. The Ledge, by Melbourne-based author Christian White, is lauded as the “crime book of the year” and the “most exciting Christmas title of 2024”.
the strict rules and grotesque side-effects of the procedure into a tight, brisk but gut-wrenching ride.
The Substance features phenomenal prosthetics, gore effects and creature design, along with deep, damp sound design that turns eating or a kiss squirmingly unpleasant.
Needless to say, The Substance is extremely graphic, but the explicit content serves a calculated narrative and thematic purpose.
The climax may be a little over-the-top (and that’s saying something), but it’s still a glorious Carrie-like crescendo of Harvey’s objectifying industry reaping what it sowed.
For more biopunk media like this, check out the films Antiviral, eXistenZ and Repo Men and the video games Wrought Flesh and Cruelty Squad.
Almost like if David Cronenberg directed a feminist Gremlins, The Substance is playing in select Victorian cinemas.
Gemco Players Community Theatre
Hull Roamer
Hull roamer – A rehearsed play reading with songs and movement sequences.
An epic dark comedy about robot zombies in space, but also rich and deep meditation on freedom and meaning in the “human” condition.
On a deep space colonisation mission, an iconoclastic robot trying to escape reformation volunteers for a dangerous mission – when inadvertently bring a zombie virus back on board with them, they find themselves fighting to salvage anything of their crumbling society before it is top late. Will Mithen, a local writer and his brother Tom Mithen, a musician, have created this musical masterpiece.
Gemco will present the script as a rehearsed/ performed reading on stage to assist Will and Tom in the writing/revising/editing process and for audience’s ad potential promotors to get a
glimpse and give feedback.
Season opens 27 September.
Burrinja Theatre
Velveteen Rabbit – Born in a Taxi.
A must see for families and anyone who has ever cherished a beloved toy. Lights, Camera, Action Set within a film shoot, layered with live projections. Melbourne theatre company Born in a Taxi thoughtfully and hilariously reimagines this 100 year old children’s story by Margery Willams.
A page-turner with a twist PASSION FOR PROSE
Commended as the “Master of Misdirection”, White’s previous three thrillers have sold over half a million copies in Australia and New Zealand.
But The Ledge is said to be his “most ambitious and twistiest book yet”.
And the book does not disappoint. It contains the kind of jaw-dropping plot twist that no one sees coming. As soon as you have finished the book, you’d feel like starting it all over again, just to check out those subtle clues that you might have missed.
Like the renowned 1986 movie Stand by Me – which is based on Stephen King’s 1972 novella “The Body” – the story begins with the shocking discovery of human remains in a forest.
As the police investigate and the locals gossip, a group of old friends start to panic, fearing that their long-held secret is about to be exposed.
One of them is our first-person narrator and protagonist, a successful author who is trying to rescue his failed marriage. Our protagonist’s return to his hometown is also a trip down the memory lane.
The journey brings us back to 1999, when 16-year-old Aaron went missing.
His best friends – Justin, Chen and Leeson –became involved, but how far would you – and should you – go to help your mate?
“[The Ledge is] just about four boys going
WITH CHRISTINE SUN
through the hell of puberty, a love letter to two of the greatest books of all time: William Golding’s Lord of the Flies and Stephen King’s It,” explains White in his Author’s Note.
“This is the most personal book I’ve ever written, and not just because the protagonist is an author in his forties who writes thrillers... I actually knew what I wanted it to be. A crime thriller about the inevitable death of childhood!”
There are other universal themes in the story, including but not limited to toxic masculinity, domestic abuse, male puberty, and the inner dynamics of male friendship. The female characters in the story also have crucial roles, and the protagonist’s love for his wife and daughter is heart- wrenching.
Ultimately, as summarised by fellow crime fiction author Michael Robotham, The Ledge is “a coming-of-age story where not everybody comes of age”.
This reviewer would recommend it as a wonderful holiday read.
Three entertainments to delight local audiences Kemp’s curtain call
Please bring your own favourite snuggly toy to the show. This is a show where the toys are in charge on stage and your own special guest toy is a VIP. One of those rare stories that dares to ease out complex themes of loss and love in a way that allows children to connect with them, The Velveteen Rabbit is about a toy rabbit who becomes real… but how did it happen. In the hands of Born in a Taxi, the story is infused with dynamic audience participation, music, livestream video and projections layered into the work that play with multiple scales and give the audience the perspective of a child.
Playful, visual and poetic.
Season: Tuesday 1 October. At 11am
CPP Community Theatre
Hello Dolly
As the 19th century becomes the 20th century.
All of New York City is excited because the brash widow Dolly Gallagher Levi is in town.
Dolly makes a living through what she calls ”meddling” – matchmaking and numerous sidelines . She is currently seeking a wife for grumpy Horace Vandergelder, the well-known half a millionaire. But irt soon becomes clear that Dolly intends to marry him herself.
“Horace explains to his two clerks that he is going to be married because it takes a woman to cheerfully do all the household chores.
The wo clerks decide that they needed to get out of Yonkers. They go to New York and see the sights.
Then they meet up with two shop assistants at the upscale Harmonia Restaurant in New York city.
Season: Friday 11 October – Saturday 19 October.
REMEMBER: 1812 THEATRE The Laramie
Project 3 – 20 October. Bookings 9758 3964
CLASSIC CHARM MEETS MODERN COMFORT
CLASSIC CHARM MEETS MODERN COMFORT
NESTLED within walking distance to Upwey central is this stunning four-bedroom home with a mezzanine study, which beautifully blends old-world charm with contemporary luxury.
From the moment you step inside, you will love the 3-metre-high ceilings, elegant leadlight accents throughout, French doors, and the timber lined cathedral ceilings.
The heart of this home is undoubtedly the gorgeous hostess kitchen, designed for both functionality and style, which effortlessly connects to the living and dining areas, creating a seamless flow for both daily living and entertaining.
A spacious master bedroom with a generous ensuite and walk-in robe is a private haven, contributing to the tranquil atmosphere. The additional three bedrooms are serviced by a central family bathroom with corner spa and separate powder room, and with the added comfort of GDH, two gas log fire places, plus a split system, this home is designed for those who appreciate a balance
of comfort and timeless beauty.
Step outside onto the paved courtyard and you will find yourself in a beautifully landscaped garden that is a feast for the senses. Herb beds and citrus trees provide not only fresh, fragrant produce but also a serene backdrop for outdoor living.
As you explore further, the bluestone steps lead you to a hidden gem—a private fiveperson spa nestled within the garden, offers year-round enjoyment, whether you’re soaking under the stars on a crisp winter evening or enjoying the warm sun in summer.
This home with its perfect blend of classic charm and modern conveniences, offers an unparalleled living experience.
Whether you’re drawn to the location, the inviting hostess kitchen, or the private outdoor oasis, this home has been thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of a discerning homeowner who values both comfort and style.
OPTIMAL FAMILY COMFORT ON PICTURESQUE FERNY CREEK
AS picturesque as it is practical, this beautiful property is the perfect place to make yourself at home. Impeccably presented and poised upon an idyllic quarter-acre garden with Ferny Creek trickling past the patio and lawn area, this home feels like a family retreat while, in fact, only moments from Tecoma township. The wide street frontage with dual drives, single carport, and paved pathways evokes a warm and inviting feel. From the covered verandah, step into the sunlit corridor that introduces the rich timber flooring that flows throughout. The front of the home is adorned with 4 light-filled bedrooms with built-in robes including the main bedroom with luxurious new ensuite featuring a floating vanity and rain shower. The family bathroom is equally impressive with its deep soaking tub.
At the rear of the residence, the open plan kitchen with Westinghouse and Smeg appliances and picture window views of the garden and covered deck takes centre stage. The adjoining split-level living area boasts bespoke timber shelving for a cosy, relaxed ambiance. Furthermore, there is a lovely study with separate entry that ensures there is a designated work-from home space.
With a long list of supplementary features including abundant storage, gas ducted heating, and evaporative cooling, this exceptional home promises to offer optimal comfort. Impressive inside and out, this home is a must-see for discerning buyers. Join us for a tour today.
Idyllic location between Tecoma township and Sherbrooke Forest
Beautiful garden framed by Ferny Creek
• Stylish open plan kitchen with high-end appliances
• Relaxing split-level living area with bespoke timber shelving 4 generous bedrooms plus study including the main bedroom with modern ensuite. Rain water tank connects to laundry and garden tap
HOME FOCUS
EXECUTIVE STYLE LUXURY LIVING
WELCOME to this stunning, modern, two storey home that epitomizes executive living, an absolute gem for the buyer looking for a home exuding style and luxury in the heart of the Yarra Valley.
Nestled in a very private location, standing majestically on well over 1 acre, this home is just a few years young and has been beautifully designed throughout.
Step inside to discover an open plan kitchen featuring sleek, seamless cabinetry, high quality appliances, and a spacious walk in pantry. This kitchen is not just for cooking; it’s the heart of the home, where entertaining takes centre stage.The adjoining dining and living areas are warmed by a built in wood fire, creating a cozy ambiance perfect for gatherings. Floor to ceiling windows draped in flowing curtains frame breathtaking mountain views, adding an element of romance to every occasion.
As you ascend the striking catwalk to the master suite, you’ll feel as though you’ve entered a gallery exuding style and flair.
The master bedroom is truly outstanding, offering generous space and an inviting feeling
like no other.
The luxurious ensuite will make you feel like you are on a weekend away and the expansive walk in robe has a wealth of cupboard and hanging space.
Downstairs, the versatile theatre room can easily transform into another bedroom, complete with its own walk in robe, ensuring comfort and convenience for family and guests alike. An inviting entry leads from the internal garage, emphasizing practicality and easy living. Year round comforts are well and truly covered with electric zoned heating, split system, evaporative cooling and a crackling wood fire too.
Outside, you’ll be enchanted by beautifully maintained gardens and an alfresco living area, perfect for enjoying warm summer evenings or entertaining friends.
If modern, luxury living in a private slice of the Yarra Valley is your dream, this breathtaking home is waiting for you. Don’t miss the opportunity to make it yours.
Please contact agent to arrange a private Inspection.
MULTI-GENERATIONAL living comes to the fore here. Upstairs features 3 bedrooms including a master with renovated ensuite and walk-in-robe, 2 bathrooms, a renovated kitchen including dishwasher, open plan family room, separate cosy lounge, plus a sunroom that flows out to the undercover deck - perfect for gatherings or enjoying quiet evenings.
Completely separate, downstairs offers a large central living room, a bedroom with an attached office and a walk-in-robe. A fully equipped kitchen, a central bathroom and a second bathroom with a bath. With its own verandah and decked entertaining area, it offers the option of either self-contained accommodation or perhaps to run as a B&B (subject to council approval), the flexibility of the property is outstanding.
Practical features include a generator switch for dependable power, and three sturdy sheds that provide ample storage for all your needs. The sealed driveway is both functional and easy to maintain, adding to the home’s overall convenience.
Inside, you’ll stay comfortable throughout the year with multiple split systems, a gas fire heater, and gas ducted heating. Whether it’s a chilly winter day or a hot summer night, this home is designed to keep you cosy. Add the rural outlook in a quiet part of Emerald, what more could you want? Homes like this don’t come along often.
SET on over half an acre, with dual access driveways and 2 x garages, this light filled, spacious, family sized home offers character and privacy: All in a highly sought-after Hills community.
Surrounded by a peaceful, semi-rural setting, yet only a very short walk to all that Belgrave South /Heights has on offer, you will be delighted with the size of this well-built home that boasts two levels of living and large windows that take in the colourful garden setting from each and every room.
The versatile floorplan consists of four bedrooms, two bathrooms (full ensuite to main bedroom) and two spacious living zones that are ideal for both formal and informal living plus a separate dining area allowing for great functionality.
Enjoy an open fire in the downstairs lounge or, if you prefer, sit and read your favourite book in the relaxed family area that adjoins the oversized and well-designed kitchen. With room for plenty of storage, a pantry nook and coffee station, there is so much you will love about not only this kitchen, but this entire home.
DUCTED heating runs throughout along with a split system and the open fire for those colder nights whilst outside, the glorious ½ acre garden setting contains colourful, mature gardens, a charming children’s cubby plus the advantage of a carport and also the dual garages/shedding – Perfect for tradies or just extra storage for cars, trailers and the like. In a wonderful, friendly Hills location, this could certainly be your forever family home.
2024 AFL GRAND FINAL
1. Which Geelong player retired in 2024 as the club’s games record holder?
2. Who won the 2023 AFL Women’s Grand Final?
3. Who won the Norm Smith Medal as best on ground in the 2023 Grand Final?
4. Which champion former AFL Women’s player is now head coach of West Coast?
5. A 2024 game between Hawthorn and Geelong was delayed for 40 minutes due to what weather event?
6. In what year did the AFL Women’s competition start?
7. Which player became the first in history to record 10,000 career disposals in 2024?
8. Which team has won the most AFL Women’s premierships?
9. Which team currently holds the longest drought since they last won a premiership?
10. Which Richmond player won the AFL Women’s best and fairest award in 2023?
11. Collingwood won the 2023 Grand Final by how many points?
12. Erin Phillips was a champion in what other sport before starting her AFL Women’s career?
13. Richmond legend Dustin Martin retired in 2024 having played how many career games?
14. Which team has lost the AFL Women’s Grand Final three times?
15. Sam Darcy and Harley Reid are both ineligible to win what 2024 season award due to suspension?
16. Which two AFL teams had new coaches at the start of the 2024 season?
17. And which team’s coach stepped down in Round 17?
25 Where 29-across spent his King’s Birthday postgame (1,1,1) 26 Why a player may find themselves fronting the Tribunal, perhaps (6,3)
18. Which three teams have won the most AFL/VFL premierships with 16 each?
19. And which is the only current AFL team to have never played in a Grand Final?
20. Hawthorn player Michael Tuck holds the record for playing in the most Grand Finals with how many appearances?
21. And how many of those appearances were Grand Final wins?
22. Who won the league’s very first Grand Final, held in 1898?
23. Which iconic US rock band performed at the 2023 Grand Final?
24. How many goals did Adelaide’s Darren Jarman kick in the final quarter of the 1997 Grand Final?
25. Which current team has gone the longest without a wooden spoon award?
28. Which Brisbane Lions player won Brownlow Medals in 2020 and 2023?
29. How many AFL/VFL players have kicked 1,000 goals?
30. David Noble, Rhyce Shaw and Darren
26. Which team has the most Norm Smith Medal wins?
27. Which cities hosted the 2020 and 2021 AFL Grand Finals?
Fluctuating weather, results
By Ron Hottes
The V.V.V’s: No comp this week.
Wed 18 September, Stableford:
With improved weather conditions, so follows improved golf and improved scoring. Someone who improved markedly was early-bird player Ross Machar. His 36 points was just good enough to oust Neil ‘Mr. Scotland’ Leckenby from the top voucher. Both men had 36 points, but in a very tight countback, Ross’s back nine proved just a
little better. Interestingly, in a healthy-sized field, the lengthy ball rundown reached the lowly score of 31. There was a full list of NTP winners, they being PeterBell (3rd), Glenn Forbes (5th), Chris Leighton (9th), Barry Maltman (12th) and Dave Hatt (15th). Due to an administrative error, the nearest second shot, supposedly on the 10th this week, was not included. That will be included next week.
Saturday 21 September, Stableford: With continued damp conditions (in other words;
Club excited for season return
By Garry Lewis
Warburton Bowls Club is looking forward to the forthcoming Summer Pennant Season which will commence on Saturday 19 October.
The Club’s Saturday Pennant sides are Warburton 1 in Division 2 Section 4 and Warburton 2 in Division 5 Section 5. They play Monbulk 1 away and Boronia 2 at home respectively in the first round.
The Midweek Tuesday Pennant Warburton 1 Division 2 Section 4 side will play their first game away against Healesville 1 on Tuesday 22 October.
Practice matches are currently being held and special thanks to Yarra Junction and Yarra Glen for hosting the games over the weekend.
Further matches will be held at Healesville and Upwey-Tecoma leading up to the start of the season.
Pennant Training continues Thursdays from 4pm at the club. New and beginning players are strongly encouraged to attend and join in the fun. Coaching is available.
The Club Open Day held on Sunday 22 September was a great success with many families and beginners joining in the fun and opportunity
to learn about the game of bowls.
Special thanks to theClub Sponsors, including local Members of Parliament, Cindy McLeish and Aaron Violi, for attending throughout the day.
The highly popular Bingo Nights will be held on the five Wednesdays in October commencing on 2 October from 7pm.
Everyone is welcome to attend and join in the fun including music bingo with food and prizes available.
The Bar will be open.
The Wednesday Night Barefoot Bowls Jack Attack Triples Competition will commence on Wednesday 6 November from 6.30pm.
All 16 team positions are now filled.
Emergencies are always needed so please contact Glenys, 0473 653 137, if you are interested in joining in the fun and meeting the locals.
Music, food and refreshments are offered throughout the evening in a highly enjoyable atmosphere.
Social Bowls continues to be played on Mondays from 12 midday with everyone including new and beginning players encouraged to attend. Come along and give bowls a try!
TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT BADGER CREEK INCLUDING
Optus plans to upgrade the telecommunications facilities at the below mentioned address with the addition of new 5G equipment: 281 Moora Road, Badger Creek VIC 3777 (RFNSA: 3139009)
The proposed 5G upgrade will consists of:
•Replacement of three (3) existing panel antennas with three (3) new panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m in length);
•Replacement of eight (8) existing Remote Radio Units (RRUs) with six (6) new RRUs; Installation, relocation and removal of ancillary equipment, including a GPS antenna, mounts, feeders, cabling, combiners, and other associated equipment; and
• Internal works within existing equipment shelter.
Optus regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”), the based on the description above. The proposed infrastructure will comply with ACMA EME regulatory arrangements.
In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code 2020 we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Vanessa Wan at Service Stream Limited, 0447 240 015, Optus.Submissions@servicestream.com.au or Zenith Tower B, Level 3, 821 Pacific Hwy, Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5pm, Thursday 10 October 2024.
If you would like to know more about the site, further information can be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/3139009.
showers persisting), it was a real struggle to battle through the heavy conditions, particularly underfoot. The player who came out on top on this day was Danny Fox who posted a fine 38 points. Ben Lever took home the runner-up voucher with a creditable 37. Well done ‘Panda’. Under the new payout structure, balls reached all the way down to 31. NTPs went home with Te Van Der Kooi (3rd), Shane ‘Bomber’ Campbell (9th), young tyro Jaiden Lever (10th), Danny Fox (12th) and Future-Golf guest Douglas Dowe (15th). Warburton Golf Club results. (File)
Great day out over weekend
By Anita Prowse
Weather held off on Sunday for the Upper Yarra Pony Club’s Poles and Jumping Clinic, a fun day out with some nifty exercises to get everyone moving and stretching.
UYPC is hoping it can fit one more of these in this year in November, stay tuned for dates. The first Freshmans in the spring series is coming up on Saturday 5 October, with entries available on the day.
Set up will begin shortly for the Shirley Heights Equestrian Centre EA National Horse Trials this coming weekend. Large entries and great weather is forecast for spectators to enjoy the beautiful venue as well. This event looks to become a very well-attended permanent fixture for the Yarra Valley, and great for our local competitors to have something else so close to home. The Upper Yarra Pony Club will be manning the kiosk for the day, so come and say hello and enjoy some yummy food. Don’t worry the AFL grand final will be on the big screen for anyone who doesn’t want to miss out. Happy Riding Everyone.
The weather held out for riders in the Upper Yarra. (Supplied)
Wandin’s run comes undone
By Callum Ludwig
The Wandin faithful got behind their boys in red, white and blue again on the fateful day in September that is the Outer East Premier Division Grand Final.
For the second season running they faced Narre Warren, the side they bested in last year’s decider, in the final Outer East game for the Magpies before they relocate to the Southern Football Netball League.
Unfortunately for Wandin, it was the Magpies who prevailed with a 14.10, 94 to 7.12, 54 victory over the Dogs.
The Top Dogs on the disappointing final day were Damien Furey, Aaron Mullett, Samuel Hodgett, Todd Garner, Patty Bruzzese and Jordan Jaworski.
Here’s what Wandin Senior Coach Nick Adam had to say before the big day: Adam said they’re confident about the football they are producing at the moment, particularly after their strong preliminary final win over local rivals Woori Yallock.
“I think it’s been building over probably the last month, we are feeling good about who we are and what we are at the moment, both in attack and defence,” he said.
“When it’s Woori vs Wandin, that always adds a layer so it was exciting for the whole club to be able to get the job done and put ourselves back into a grand final.”
In more deja vu from last year’s finals campaign, it was again a strong Wandin win over Woori in a preliminary final that set them up for their 2023 premiership success.
This time around, with the preliminary final also having been held at the same venue as this and last year’s Grand Final, Officer’s Rob Porter Recreation Reserve, Adam said he feels like Wandin plays their best footy when there’s space to be played in.
“We’ve been pretty consistent in our messaging over the last five years that we need to recruit to be able to play our best footy on the bigger grounds in September though that sometimes can create challenges at Wandin and throughout the year in terms of the sides that we come up against and the contest that they’re able to create on the smaller grounds,” he said.
“I feel that Narre Warren are exactly the same, they’re a side that’s been built on playing this style of football for a long time and we’ve had to probably catch up to them over the last few years,”
“We had a focus on testing Woori Yallock defensively and making them defend the ground for long periods of time on Sunday and I felt we’ve got good outcomes at the back end of quarters off the back of that, Narre Warren is probably better built to be able to defend for longer in that space so that’ll be a challenge this weekend but we’ll have a plan in place.”
The Magpies had the best of the Dogs in their two meetings prior, recording a 38-point win in Round Three and a narrow 13-point win
in Round 15.
Adam said whether or not they can disrupt Narre Warren’s exit party won’t be high on their to-do list, with the Dogs solely setting their sights on the possibility of bringing back-to-back flags to The Kennel.
“I don’t think that you need much more motivation than that, in terms of legacy at community clubs, I think that’s pretty special, there’s six to eight guys in my side that are shooting for their third flags for the club and one playing for his fourth that’s potentially playing for his fourth and would be standing alone at the top of the tree if that happens,” he said.
“I think grand finals have an edge to them, both sides are experienced at this time of year and have an understanding of what needs to be done in terms of focusing on the football that they need to produce,”
How you react when anything happens on the field can determine outcomes over the course of the day so we have a focus on being able to produce our best football this weekend and go into
the game with clear intentions and a clear understanding of what that needs to look like.”
Leiwyn Jones was a standout in the preliminary final win over Woori Yallock with his efforts to nullify the league’s leading goalkicker Taylor Gibson while key cogs of the Wandin brigade such as Chayce Black, Patty Brusseze, Aaron Mullett, Todd Garner, Chris Johnson and Harrison Van Duuren had also been important in their season.
As well as Jones, Adam sought to heap his praises on one of Wandin’s most consistent performers throughout the season and in the final series, Patrick Hodgett.
“Pat Hodgett’s been outstanding in his role at centre-half forward and I think it sometimes gets overlooked how often he gets beat, I think he kicked six in one of the finals, but he didn’t impact the scoreboard as much yesterday [against Woori Yallock], but it’s just his ability to bring it to the ground and impact the opposition’s intercept game,” he said.
“So much of modern football is built off turnover and the control that you get getting that whis-
tle and the ball in your hand so our desire to get the ball to ground and allow our smalls to go to work is built off Pat’s work rate and his ability to not get beat, he’s been outstanding this September.”
Patrick Hodgett kicked three goals against Mt Evelyn and six against Olinda-Ferny Creek before a blank against the Tigers on top of his total of 24 goals for the year.
Adam said there was no doubt in his mind that there’d be lots of red, white and blue at Officer on the weekend.
“It is very clear to us that we represent the community, we have a really strong junior club and fantastic support from within the community, it becomes the epicentre of what the town is on a Saturday afternoon,” he said.
“People come to be part of something that’s bigger than the game and I’m really aware of my responsibility in representing the football club,”
“They’re a really proud and loud bunch so we’re excited to see them supporting us on Saturday.”
Alan’s years of dedication to tennis club gets recognised
By Dongyun Kwon
Over 40 years of dedication to the local tennis club has finally paid off for Alan Honeycombe.
The Healesville Tennis Club life member was presented with a Tennis Service Award on Friday 30 August.
Tennis Victoria events and recognition manager Tanya Helliar said Tennis Service Award is an award to recognise those who have demonstrated their long-term volunteer contribution to the sport of tennis in Victoria through significant service to a Tennis Victoria affiliated club, centre or association.
“Alan was nominated by the Healesville Tennis Club for the award in recognition of his dedicated and outstanding service to the club,” she said.
“The board reviewed the nomination and approved a Tennis Service Award for Alan.” Honeycombe felt honoured by the unexpected award.
“I received it during the tennis club’s trivia night and the secretary must have organised for
this to be given to me that night,” he said.
The Healesville Tennis Club legend first joined the club in 1978 when he and his wife moved to Healesville from Mortlake as he got a teaching position at Healesville High School.
Honeycombe has devoted himself to the club on and off the court since then.
He said he has served the club in different
roles over the last 46 years.
“Over those 46 years, I spent some years as president and some as vice president but mostly as the senior convenor, that’s the person who organises the senior tennis teams to make sure it all runs smoothly every week,” the award winner said.
“I was on the committee for about 45 years and did a lot of work around the club as a maintenance officer, fixing things, changing nets.
“Over the period of time, we’ve done a huge number of upgrades to the tennis courts too. When I first came here, there were only four courts but now we’ve got six en tout cas courts that are all synthetic grass with LED lighting.”
On the court, Honeycombe has been a part of many premiership teams over his time with Healesville Tennis Club.
His best effort is his consistent presence on the court throughout the years, playing every season.
“I probably played in about eight premiership teams,” Honeycombe said.
The award recipient said he jumped into
tennis once he found out he wasn’t very good at cricket.
“As a young person, I played cricket for quite a while, but then decided tennis was more to my liking because it just seemed to be more suitable to the game I enjoyed.”
The nomination for the Service Award is open and can be made via the Tennis Victoria website, tennis.com.au/vic/recognition/serviceawards
Ms Helliar said volunteers are the lifeblood of the sport.
“From the formal positions of president, secretary, or treasurer through to the volunteers who maintain the courts, manage the teams, find fill ins and enter the scores, there’s so much that happens behind the scenes for players to enjoy their time on court,” she said.
“Volunteering is also a wonderful way for people to stay involved and connected to their club even if their playing days are slowing down.
“Tennis is a sport for life, and for everybody, Alan has championed encouraging people to play.”
Patrick Hodgett played a key role in Wandin’s run to the Grand Final. (File: 430149)
Alan Honeycombe (left), the Tennis Service Award recipient. (Supplied)
