Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 24th September 2024

Celebrate spring

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

The Tesselaar Tulip Festival has returned for its 2024 edition, offering visitors an unforgettable experience from Saturday 14 September, to Sunday 13 October - promising to showcase over a million vibrant tulips, creating a stunning display of colour.

In addition to the breathtaking floral displays, the festival features live entertainment showcasing local talent, endorsing a lively atmosphere for attendees and food lovers can explore a variety of offerings from local vendors or bring their own picnics to enjoy among the tulips.

The festival is a family-friendly place, with pram-friendly paths and free onsite parking available.

Furry buddies on leads are also welcome to join the festivities of spring at the tulip festival.

Continue exploring stunning photos from the Tulip Festival on page 11

Foothills’ mantra, chief executive officer Stephen Barrington said it was much more than that.

“We have a lot of people who come along who are experiencing homelessness or isolation or going through food insecurity, so for some people who come along, it might be the only nutritious meal they eat that day or even that week,” he said.

“More important than the healthy and nutritious meals is the community connection which is one of our main drivers for providing nights like this and why we’ve kept going for 800 nights.”

Foothills Community Care serves roughly 70 to 80 people on a Wednesday night and distributes around 130 to 140 meals each week.

But to ensure this vital service can continue to

function as it always has, community support is essential, especially with the growing need of a service of its kind.

“Continued community support is really important. Volunteers, funds and donations are also really important for helping us keep going.”

To read the full story, turn to page 9

A breathtaking sea of colour with over a million tulips bloom at the Tesselaar Tulip Festival. (Shamsiya Hussainpoor: 433061)

Emerald Primary School hit by fire

By Tanya Steele

Emerald Primary School has escaped serious damage after a fire was allegedly lit on-site by a group of unknown youths last weekend.

On Saturday 14 September CFA responded to reports of a fire threatening a structure at around 2.06pm on Heroes Avenue in Emerald.

A CFA media representative said five units from Emerald, Clematis and Menzies Creek attended the scene alongside Victoria Police.

“Crews arrived to find a fire burning under a classroom,” they said.

“The incident was deemed under control at 2.24pm and safe at 2.35pm and the scene was

then handed to Victoria Police due to suspicious circumstances.”

Cardinia Crime Investigation Unit detectives are now investigating the weekend fire.

A Victoria Police media representative said it is understood five unknown youths set fire to a shed and a shipping container at the school.

“No one was inside at the time,” they said.

“The investigation remains ongoing.”

Emerald CFA thanked other units supporting them at the call out on social media.

“As firefighters we sometimes need to make our way into some extremely tight spaces to investigate and put out the fire,” the post read.

“It’s not an easy task at all, especially carrying 25 kilos on our backs, with our personal protective structure gear and breathing apparatus to make sure that we don’t inhale any of the toxic smoke that come with fires.

“Thanks to Clematis Volunteer Fire Brigade and Menzies Creek Rural Fire Brigade for supporting us on this call.”

Police are asking if anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV, dashcam footage or any other information that could assist to please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au

Driver trapped in Sassafras car crash

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A 26-year-old Olinda man was airlifted to the hospital after being trapped in his overturned car on Wednesday night following a harrowing plunge off a cliff in Sassafras.

The incident occurred on 18 September around 9pm on Mountain Highway near Ferndale Track in Sassafras.

According to authorities, the man’s vehicle veered off the road and fell approximately 30 metres down the cliff.

Emergency services were called to the scene on Thursday morning just before 7am, after witnesses reported the crash - police were notified shortly after at 7.20am.

When paramedics arrived, they found the car on its roof, with the young man still inside.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson said paramedics were called to an incident in Sassafras around 6.55am on Thursday 19 September.

“A man in his 20s with upper and lower body injuries was airlifted to the Alfred Hospital, believed to be in a stable condition,” the spokesperson said.

Rescue crews worked quickly to extricate him from the wreckage, and he was airlifted to a nearby hospital with serious upper and lower body injuries.

Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident, no further details have been released regarding the man’s condition.

The Alfred Hospital spokesperson said the 26-year-old is in a stable condition.

The young man was found trapped in his upturned car on Wednesday 18 September after the car plunged off a cliff. (279272)

IN BRIEF

Police seeking assistance

An alleged jumper thief is being sought by Olinda Police via their Eyewatch social media page.

The person was alleged to have have stolen a merino wool jumper from a gallery at Olinda on the 12 August 2024.

Wearing a mauve/light pink hoodie, dark framed glasses with grey hair colour the Caucasian women allegedly secreted the jumper under her own jacket before leaving the store without making payment for it.

Police are asking the public that if they have any information regarding the identity of the person, to please contact Olinda Police on 9751 1241 or make an anonymous report via Crime Stoppers at crimestoppersvic.com.au/ report-a-crime/ Ref No: 240325016

Alchester road upgrades Boronia

The Mountain Highway, Colchester Road and Albert Avenue intersection in Boronia upgrades began on Friday 20 September and there will be increased noise, vibration, light, and dust in the area as crews work along Colchester Road. Transport Victoria will monitor and minimize all impacts as much as possible

The site will be converted into a signalised intersection with additional lanes and safer crossings for pedestrian and cyclists.

Drivers should allow for moderate traffic delays, localised detours and extra time to travel.

Traffic detours begin on 20 September and continue until 7 October.

Full Closures - From 8pm Friday 20 September to 6am Monday 7 October, there will be a full closure of Colchester Road between Mountain Highway and Beresford Drive between 8pm and 6am, and a partial closure, allowing northbound traffic only on Colchester Road, between 6am and 8pm. Grand Final Exception - While the southbound closure will remain in place, works on site will pause from the evening of Thursday 26 September through to the morning of Sunday 29 September - during the Grand Final Eve holiday and Grand Final Day.

A two-way detour will be in place along Beresford Drive for the duration of this stage of works.

All other approaches will retain two-way access with a temporary roundabout in place through the intersection.

Please follow on-road detour signage, and see detour routes below for daytime and night time closures.

Power and water supply interruptions

Residents may experience impacts to their power and water supply during daytime utility service works.

Residents and businesses will receive communication directly from their relevant service providers regarding any expected outages.

Crews will be working on Colchester Road between Mountain Highway and Beresford Drive to remove the top layer of the road and lay new road foundations, build new kerb and channel along road edges, lay a road foundation and a new asphalt road surface, install temporary line marking, install a temporary roundabout at the intersection and install new traffic signal infrastructure.

According to Transport Victoria, to minimize disruption for the community and local businesses, the major road work was planned to take place during the school holiday period.

Work will be conducted both day and night to ensure this phase is completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.

The fire was allegedly lit by five youths over the weekend at Emerald Primary School. (On File)

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

• 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 focus on 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 approach 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.”

Voices for Casey’s Community Survey results coming

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 elector-

ate 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-toface 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 poli-

tics

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 seriously.

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.”

Over 1000 people responded to Voices for Casey’s Community Survey. (File)

Victoria Police Eastern Region Operational Support Superintendent Stephen Cooper answering the question. (Dongyun Kwon: 433196)

New village group inspires

By Tanya Steele

An inspired group has taken the word ‘community’ to heart and recently formed a township group for the Ferntree Gully Village area.

Ferntree Gully has always represented a special launching point into the Dandenongs and some locals have come together to build a township group for the Ferntree Gully Village area.

On Wednesday 11 September, the Village Township Group - Ferntree Gully Inc. was formally adopted and president Seamus Smith said they formed to create a community group that brings everyone together to form some common points for advocacy.

“It’s to promote a more economically sustainable and safe environment around Ferntree Gully Village and to encourage investment in the area by people,” he said.

“If people see that there’s good opportunities for businesses and good living conditions for families then more people will move in and use the available facilities.”

The group hopes to bring community connection back to the area and Mr Smith said that there were calls for them to form.

“There were calls from different parts of the community to bring that connection back,” he said.

Mr Smith along with some other like-minded people decided to form the group and he has since been voted in as president.

“This is about trying to get everyone together in a collective, on the same page,” he said.

“We’re advocating for one-direction development – than we can have a focus on what the village will look like.”

“We will start working to engage and communicate with different groups and organizations, build some membership and build investment in the local area.”

Ferntree Gully Village’s unique location is tucked off the main road with a local transport

hub within it and Mr Smith said it is one of few village townships with this kind of set-up.

“It’s off the main road and there are services and local housing around the train station,” he said.

The area has gone through some cosmetic changes recently with a tree light installation by the Community Bank going live, local signage being improved and a free food pantry installed and opening at the Hills op-shop.

Mr Smith has lived and volunteered in the area for over 20 years and has had his family grow

up in the area.

“We’ve worked, volunteered and our kids have gone to school here,” he said.

The group plans to have a number of events in the next few weeks, including a ’ Meet the candidates’ gathering for Dobson Ward hopefuls for the Knox City Council.

On Saturday 5 October at the Ferntree Gully CFA Hall, The Avenue in Ferntree Gully from 2pm residents can meet the four Dobson candidates, Meagan Baker, Emily Cox, Joe Stroud and Tony Holland. In late October the group will also host

a meet and greet for the township group itself for people wanting to know more about them or who want to join.

“Members of the community can come in, they can find out about the group, tell us what their concerns are and ask us about becoming a member,” said Mr Smith.

For any information feel free to direct message the new group on their Facebook group page “Village Township Group - Ferntree Gully Inc” or email them at villagetownshipgroup.ftg@gmail. com

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!

Vice president Michael He (left) and president Seamus Smith (right) have high hopes for the group. (Supplied)

Olinda Toy Library grows

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Olinda’s hidden gem, the Mountain Top Toy Library, recently celebrated the purchase of new toys with $1000 grant funding from the Department of Education and Department of Social Services with support from Toy Libraries Australia with a special launch event featuring Monbulk Member Daniela De Martino and Casey’s Federal Member Aaron Violi.

During the launch, Mountain Top Toy Library also hosted a vibrant ‘Play and Stay’ day, where babies, children, and families joined in a day of fun with an array of fantastic new toys.

The Olinda Hall buzzed with excitement as children explored their imaginations through creative play.

Parents, grandparents, and carers gathered to enjoy a sumptuous morning tea, enriching a sense of community and connection – this event not only highlighted the joy of play but also reinforced the library’s role as a welcoming space for families to come together and share meaningful experiences.

Mountain Top Toy Library president Vivien de Vanny is encouraging families to come and be part of the fun.

“Through Toy Libraries Australia, we received a grant from the Federal Government specifically for children with additional needs and with this funding, we were able to purchase a range of sensory toys, including fun gadgets that move through tubes, as well as touch-and-feel toys,” Ms de Vanny said.

The toy library features a wide selection of toys, including baby toys, push-alongs, puppets, slides, puzzles, board games, jigsaws, climbing frames, musical instruments, home play items, dress-ups, tunnels, mats, and a variety of wooden outdoor family games.

There are also sensory toys for children with additional support needs and families can borrow a toy for up to three weeks at a time – though they are welcome to come back more often Ms de

Vanny said.

“It’s a great way to enjoy high-quality toys at home and then swap them out for something new,” she said.

She said the need for the new toys wasn’t driven by demand, but rather to provide families with more diverse options for play.

“We didn’t have any specific sensory toys before, and we recognised this gap as we strive to welcome more families – by introducing these sensory toys, we’re aiming to raise awareness among physiotherapists and encourage therapists to utilise our library for their clients,” she said.

“It’s not just about borrowing toys, it’s a wonderful opportunity to socialise with other families and meet new people, plus, it gives the children a chance to play together.”

“The children will have the chance to choose toys, while parents can test them out before deciding to purchase.”

To access the toy library, there’s a $40 membership for the year from the time of joining which allow families to borrow up to 10 toys, including games, puzzles, ride-ons, home play items, construction toys, cooking sets, climbing frames, and much more across numerous categories.

The toy library is open every Saturday morning from 9am to 10am at the Olinda Hall, located at 69-73 Olinda-Monbulk Road, Olinda – it is closed on long weekends, total fire ban days, and from mid-December to the end of January. The library is entirely run by dedicated volunteers.

Anyone interested in becoming a new member is welcome to come to the Olinda Hall when toy library is operating to have a look around and ask any questions or have a chat, or contact the President, Vivien de Vanny on 0422 14 1266 or email mttl@iinet.net.au

YOU’RE READY TO SWITCH TO ELECTRIC

Joy ride around the hall. (Ellen Duffy)

Daniela De Martino and Aaron Violi chatting with members about the joys of toy libraries.

Politicians with Committee Members (left to right), Daniella De Martino MP, Sarah, Intan, Mandy, Peter, Vivien, Aaron Violi MP.

800 meal nights is caring

By Gabriella Vukman

Since 2007 the Foothills Community Care organisation has provided the community with free meals and opportunities to connect and socialise.

As of Wednesday 25 September, the organisation will have facilitated 800 Wednesday community meals services.

Foothills Community Care chief executive officer Steve Barrington confirmed the aid and generosity of local businesses, individuals and organisations have created the foundations for this milestone.

“Community support has been really important over the years. We couldn’t do it without the amazing community support that we receive. We get great support from our terrific pool of volunteers and most of them live incredibly local and are from Ferntree Gully,” he said.

“Whether it is Lynne who is a local resident who for the last 17 years, every fortnight, has provided dessert for all of our guests who come along, or whether it is Ferntree Gully Rotary Club who have been great supporters over the last 10-12 years who provide desserts or soup once a month, or the local CFA, local businesses, local schools, we have got great community buy-in and there are so many amazing community groups and businesses that support what we do in the local community.”

According to Mr Barrington, volunteers don’t just come on a Wednesday night to cook and volunteer, they come to meet other people and create a warm, friendly and welcoming environment.

Ensuring that meals are healthy and nutritious is one of Foothills Community Care’s aims.

“This service is really important because it provides healthy, nutritious meals to people who can’t access them,” Mr Barrington said.

“We have a lot of people who come along who are experiencing homelessness or isolation or going through food insecurity, so for some people who come along, it might be the only nutritious meal they eat that day or even that week.

“More important than the healthy and nutritious meals is the community connection which is one of our main drivers for providing nights like this and why we’ve kept going for 800 nights.”

For Foothills Community Care, it is not just about getting food out to people.

Mr Barrington said, “Whilst feeding people is an important part of it, we exist so that people can feel connected.”

“We see that a lot of people really need that community connection and so nights like this are actually about bringing people together.

“For a lot of people, it might not be their only healthy meal for the week, but it might be that they actually get to sit down with someone else at a table with a real plate and a real knife and fork and sit down and have a chat with someone over a meal.”

Foothills Community Care serves roughly 70 to 80 people on a Wednesday night and distributes around 130 to 140 meals each week.

Offering dine-in and takeaway options, the organisation has served around 65,000 meals so far.

Mr Barrington believes the number of Wednesday night attendees is growing substantially.

“We’ve certainly seen, with the cost of living increase, that a lot more people are coming to our services for dine in or takeaway who have never had to ask for help before,” he said.

“We often have people coming who have come for the first time. We had an elderly gentleman

come last week who was just out of hospital and was referred to us through a social worker at the Angliss hospital to come along.

“He’s got multiple challenges in his life and isolation is one of them and he came last night and was just over the moon. He was able to have a healthy meal, sit down with others and have a chat and get a haircut. He just went out with a big smile and he just said he feels pretty isolated as well so he went out with a big smile last night.”

Meals at Foothills Community Care are made fresh on Wednesday nights using rescued food from local supermarkets, businesses and donations.

Leftovers are frozen and delivered to people through services such as the organisation’s Community Casseroles service among other internal and external services.

Mr Barrington said, “Everyone can come and access food parcels on Wednesday nights. We have fresh produce available and anything that is not used there gets distributed to other people within our network or other agencies so nothing gets wasted.”

Whilst Foothills Community Care holds various special meal nights throughout the year such as a winter feast and a men’s and a woman’s night, Mr Barrington confirmed that this 800th weekly meal milestone will be celebrated in a small way.

According to Mr Barrington, in order to ensure another 800 Wednesday community meal nights, local support is greatly needed.

Mr Barrington said, “continued community support is really important. Volunteers, funds and donations are also really important for helping us keep going.”

“It is also important that people don’t just give to and connect with us, but connect with others in the local community.”

“We know for a lot of people, it opens their eyes because when you sit down with someone and you learn about and listen to their life, you actually have a deeper appreciation for what people are going through and for us that is really important.”

Everyone is welcome to attend Foothills Community Care’s Wednesday community meals.

“Our motto over the years has always been ‘everyone is welcome at our table’ and we really see that at our community meals. People don’t need to call, they can come each week and everyone is welcome to come along,” Mr Barrington said.

“Most people come from the immediate area, some people travel because we are on the railway

line, we don’t ask people at the door what their situation is before they come in or not.

“Everyone is welcome to come along, all we ask is that people respect others and help to ensure that we all contribute to providing a safe environment for everyone. We strive to build up an inclusive environment where people are connected and they go away with a smile on their faces having spoken to someone or been listened to with a full belly and food to take away with them that they can also share with other people as well.”

For more information about Foothills Community Care or to volunteer or donate, visit their website at: foothillscare.org.au

Small Change Grants supports over 40 local projects

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

The Wellbeing and Support Grants Program applications which offers crucial funding to support the establishment of new organisations, projects, and services aimed at enhancing the health and wellbeing of Cardinia Shire residents are now open.

The program dedicates in encouraging community engagement, fostering volunteerism, and ensuring the sustainability of local initiatives.

There are three distinct funding categories available, ranging from $1000 to $5000.

These are some of the community projects funded for 2024-2025 by the Cardinia Shire Council.

The program has awarded ‘Seeding Grants’ of up to $5000 to 18 organisations, including local groups such as the Cockatoo and District Se-

nior Citizens, the Cockatoo History and Heritage Group, and the Puffing Billy Toy Library.

The ‘Volunteer Support Grants’ of up to $3000 have been awarded to four organisations to recognise their much-needed contributions to fostering volunteerism within the community.

The ‘Small Change Grants’ providing up to $1000 each, have been distributed to over 40 organisations, including local groups, the Emerald Village Association Inc. which received funding for a new laptop, and new tables for the Emerald Arts Society Hall.

Other projects supported include IT upgrades for the Gembrook RSL Sub-Branch, Christmas decorations for the Eastern Dandenong Ranges Association, the Puffing Billy Toy Library’s Community Engagement Project, and heating for the outdoor veranda area at Emerald RSL Sub-Branch.

The funding is not available for:

• Core services of government entities

• Initiatives from individuals

• Private, profit-making organisation

• Political organisation

• Capital works or beautification projects

• Maintenance of facilities

• Operating costs or existing salaries

To qualify for the program, applicants must be, not-for-profit, based in or servingv residents of Cardinia Shire, and a community asset committee or incorporated organisation.

Community groups with outstanding projects are ineligible for further funding.

For more information and to apply, visit the Cardinia Shire Council website.

Applications for the 2025 and 2026 grant round will open in early 2025.

The Wellbeing and Support Grants Program is only available for organisations within the Cardinia Shire regions.

Foothills Community Care is scheduled to facilitate its 800th Community Meals night. (File: 302883)

From spaghetti to schnitzels to fresh local produce, Foothills Community Care has looked after the community with free meals since 2007. (Supplied)

Puffing Billy Railway is thrilled to unveil a new timetable packed with plenty more adventure, running from 23 December 2024 to 26 June 2025 and available to book from 18 September. Along with a fresh lineup of daily excursion train services, passengers will soon be treated to an exciting new experience under the stars; Twilight Trains, operating every Thursday evening and kicking off on 10 October.

Offering a 3.5-hour return journey from Belgrave to Lakeside, the Twilight Train is perfect for those looking to experience the charm of Puffing Billy at dusk. Passengers can take in breathtaking

views of the Dandenong Ranges while sitting on the carriage sill*, their legs dangling, as they travel to the Lakeside Visitor Centre, surrounded by the soft, fading light of the day.

Once at Lakeside, passengers can relax at the Railway Cafe, where a full menu and drinks bar featuring a selection of local beers, wines, and ciders are available before the return journey. Alternatively, beat the queue by pre-ordering a grazing box or classic scones and tea to enjoy at your leisure.

Visitors to the centre can also explore the gift shop, delve into the Lakeside Hall Museum,

home to a collection of expertly curated railway artefacts including Puffing Billy Railway’s very first locomotive, 3A, or wander through the picturesque Emerald Lake Park precinct.

When it’s time to return, passengers will once again soak in the magic of steam train travel and the serenity of twilight descending over the lush landscapes at a time of day rarely offered to the public.

The Twilight Train will operate from Thursday 10 October to Thursday 12 December 2024.

Passengers can view the full timetable and fare

types of daily excursion trains for 23 December 2024 to 26 June 2025 at www.puffingbilly.com.au.

For further information or to book a Twilight Train experience, visit puffingbilly.com.au/experiences/excursion/thursday-twilight-train/

Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the heritage steam experience at one of Victoria’s most iconic attractions.

*No person will be allowed to sit on the carriage sill on the return journey.

Twilight Trains come to Puffing Billy Railway. (Dean Gifford)

Locomotive 1694 travelling through the Dandenong Ranges at twilight.

Over a million tulips delight

The Tesselaar Tulip Festival 2024 is set to dazzle visitors from Saturday 14 September to Sunday 13 October, featuring a spectacular display of over a million vibrant tulips.

The annual festival promises a spectacular display of colour, featuring various vibrant tulips in bloom.

The festival offers something for everyone, wander through the stunning gardens, where you’ll find a spectrum of colours and varieties.

Among the attendees is Mehmat, an 81-yearold local who has been a regular at the festival, proudly showcasing his Turkish heritage.

“For many years I’ve been coming to the Tulip Festival. I’m Turkish, and we come in the first week to highlight the influence of tulips in our culture,” he said.

“It’s a beautiful site to be on, and we welcome everyone to join us in this celebration.”

In addition to the vibrant displays, the festival features live entertainment throughout, showcasing local talent and creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Food lovers can enjoy a variety of offerings from local vendors or pack a picnic to enjoy among the flowers, there also free onsite parking available.

There are pram-friendly paths – making it accessible for all ages and the best part is your furry friends (or therapists) – dogs on leads are also welcomed to join in the fun.

Colourful tulips creating a breathtaking landscape at the Tulip Festival 2024. (433061)

A stunning display of tulips in full bloom at the Tulip Festival 2024. (433061)

Spring vibes at its best. (433061)

Mehmat proudly showcasing his Turkish heritage at the festival. (433061)

Theodore is showing off his sweet-fluffy bear (433061)

Turkish festival week typically runs on the first week of the Tulip Festival. (433061)

Right to left: Alexander Keon Sadikay, Theodore James Sadikay, Renee Wandin and baby Maverick Mohamed Sadikay. (433061)

Dutch dazzling garden. (433061)

A colourful sea of tulips in full bloom at the Tulip Festival 2024 in Silvan, showcasing over a million spring flowers and celebrating the beauty of the season. (Shamsiya Hussainpoor - 433061)

Dutch dancing all day long. (433061)

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 com-

munities 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.

Are your kids living in a world revolving around their passions? That’s a good thing.

It’s why the VCE’s new Vocational Major creates worlds where passions can be explored.

From agriculture to construction, health to clean energy. Whatever world our kids are into, there’s a VCE program to help develop the skills they’ll need to land a job in Australia’s most in-demand industries.

Star Mail owner and director Paul Thomas.

Taking the first steps towards addressing the build up of plastics and microplastics in today’s environment,

Water has switched to recyclable tape for their work sites. (Supplied)

Tape move in plastics fight

By Gabriella Vukman

In response to the build-up of plastic and microplastics in today’s environment, Yarra Valley Water will be converting to recycled Eco Barricade tape at their worksites.

Made from 96 per cent recycled soft plastics and with the goal of recycling the tape again after it has been used, Yarra Valley Water aims to remove 100 km of virgin plastic tape from circulation.

General manager of distribution and growth at Yarra Valley Water Bridie Fennessy said, “This is a new initiative, driven by our commitment to reduce waste and help support a circular economy.”

It’s a small change but it’s a significant one for Yarra Valley Water. We use the tape to separate our work sites, ensuring that the public and our partners remain safe when they’re undertaking works on our water and sewerage networks,” she said.

“When selecting the new product, we considered factors like quality, reliability, local production, and cost. We needed something that met the highest standards, and we put it through field testing to ensure its safety and reliability for site use.”

While this new tape is not entirely reusable, it is produced by the Melbourne social enterprise Cacti Conserve, who collect the tape once it has been used for recycling.

Ms Fennessy said, “Every product that is recycled or repurposed reduces the need for new raw materials. Over the years, we’ve explored various tape options, including reusable alternatives. While we haven’t found a suitable and cost-effective solution on the market yet, we’re committed to opting for sustainable alternatives wherever we can.”

“This is in line with our commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals and building a circular economy,” Ms Fennessy said.

Yarra Valley Water’s circular economy and Sustainable Development Goals include sustainable energy farming, water recycling and sustainable farming among other elements.

Ms Fennessy said, “We are moving towards a

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 .

more circular economy in the way we work and operate. We’re building our second food waste to energy plant, which will transform end-of-life food waste into renewable energy that will help to power our treatment facilities. Solar panels are also generating energy for our head office, treatment plants and electric vehicles.”

“We’re also exploring how we can use more recycled, reprocessed and less carbon-intensive materials in construction and maintenance and in 2023-24 we replaced over 10,600 tonnes of construction materials with recycled alternatives,” she said.

“We’re partnering with Whittlesea Community Connections to develop the Wollert Community Farm. The farm will grow food, use recycled water and demonstrate circular economy systems for the local community.”

Reducing the use and manufacture of plastics in order to battle the encroachment of microplastics into the environment, is an important part of Yarra Valley Water’s circular economy and sustainability program.

Climate activist, ocean sailor and microplastics researcher Lisa Blair confirmed that action is needed to combat the “pretty terrifying” rising presence of microplastics in the environment and in food sources.

Ms Blair said, “Every time you do a load of laundry with synthetic fibres, such as polyester, rayon, nylon, it will release around 3000 particles of micro plastics.”

“35 percent of all micro plastics generated worldwide are from car tires. These days, the tires are made from a combination of plastic and rubber and as you’re driving your car down the road, you are also eroding micro plastics onto the roadways and into the storm drains and then into the sea,” she said.

“The stats that I know are that by 2050, there’ll be more plastic in the ocean than fish, by 2050, the average fish on your dinner plate will contain 18 per cent plastic.”

Having made their first order for the recycled Eco Barricade tape in July, Yarra Valley Water confirmed that the tape is now officially in use.

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

Yarra Valley

RUTH challenge overcome

By Tanya Steele

Sounds of laughter, giggles and the thud of runners on gravel cut through the air in Birdsland Reserve in Belgrave Heights on Sunday 22 September as the Mums of the Hills Inc. held their epic first-time Running up that Hill event (R.U.T.H.) event.

With two loops and an intense hill to finish, the first time R.U.T.H. 5km run for mental health awareness saw people from all over the Dandenong Ranges and beyond come together for charity, run and a cheeky dress-up.

With Kate Bush, Stranger Things and Ruth Bader Ginsburg inspiring the theme Mums of the Hill Inc. (MotH) run organiser and group president Belinda Young said it was a fantastic day.

“It was for a great cause - the Black Dog Institute and there were so many connections made on the day,” she said.

Ms Young said a highlight for her was being cheered through the final leg of the course which took runners along the Bunjil Trail in Birdsland which ends with an amazing view of the Melbourne CBD.

“It was so hard, but that was the point – we were running up that hill to signify the challenges we’ve had,” she said.

Two teen trail assistants Stella and Hugo kept runners inspired with a ‘80s playlist that would keep anyone moving and encouraged everyone along the course.

Prep for the big day had been varying among the crowd, but one group of MotHs had been training with a local long distance runner Pete Spink.

Dubbed the Runushkas, they had been in training for a few months beforehand with some never having run before.

The Runushkas could be spotted dressed in Kate Bush’s signature Wuthering Heights’ red with MotH Kathleen going for the full look.

Pete took the expectant crowd through some warm-ups on the morning and said it was great to see so many people there.

“Just think of the amazing view at the top to keep you going, because you can see all the way to the city. It will make it worthwhile,” he said.

“But as you’re going around the flat pit, just keep a little bit in reserve so you can tackle that.”

And tackle it they did, dressed in a variety of costumes some ran, some walked but they all made it to the top in the end.

Runner Brooke breached the hill first and all the runners received handmade wooden medallions.

“The medal has been handmade by members of Mothers of the Hills, and it’s made from trees that fell in the June 2021 storms, said Ms Young.

“I’ve had the wood for a while – when you receive this medal, it’s in recognition of what you overcame then and what you can overcome with community around you,” she said.

“Some people are still going through it.”

Committee member and volunteer helper on the day Leslie said she thought the run achieved the group’s goals for mental health.

“It’s a strong community and many here have had challenges with mental health directly,” she said.

Photographer Pauline Klemm captured a lot of the action on the day and said it was very rewarding to shoot.

The event concluded with a catered breakfast by Monbulk family caterer Glenn makes food –who also gave a bonus prize out to the best-costumed family.

Funded by the Yarra Ranges Council Ms Young said their community grant paved the way for the run along with assistance from Melbourne Water.

“Melbourne Water supports MotHs as well

and were vital in the process - their input helped set the run’s final location,” she said.

Since 2015, MotHs has been an engaged online private group dedicated to supporting women during their motherhood journey, connecting mothers with services, and promoting local businesses.

The group has more on the horizon with more events planned in October in the Yarra Valley and will continue to do its work in the parenting community, supporting women and their families through the challenges of motherhood and beyond.

“The run highlighted the challenge behind overcoming whatever is hard in our lives – whether it’s mental health, financial or just having a tough day - that’s what the challenge was all about,” said Ms Young.

Connection and community through life’s challenges. (Pauline Klemm Sliding Door Photography)

Running up that hill, no problem! (Pauline Klemm Sliding Door Photography)

Channelling that ‘Stranger Things’ energy for the run. (Pauline Klemm Sliding Door Photography)

Peter Spink takes everyone through a warm-up. (Pauline Klemm Sliding Door Photography)

‘Best dressed’ runner and MotH Kathleen went for the full Kate Bush look. (Pauline Klemm Sliding Door Photography)

‘Runushkas’ Abi and Sarah on the day. (Tanya Steele)

Jane and Dee take on the trail. (Pauline Klemm Sliding Door Photography)

The Runushkas warm up. (Pauline Klemm Sliding Door Photography)

President Belinda Young and trainer Pete Spink celebrate. (Pauline Klemm Sliding Door Photography)

Running up that hill, through Birdsland. (Pauline Klemm Sliding Door Photography)

The group celebrates at the top. (Pauline Klemm Sliding Door Photography)

First to the top Brooke receives her handmade medal. (Pauline Klemm Sliding Door Photography)

NEWS Hills with Heart captured

By Tanya Steele

A poignant local hills art project has officially launched and remains on display until the end of September.

Photographer Tracey Sharp has put together an exhibition titled Hills with Heart and the photos of local families display just that.

Until 27 September the exhibition which has been in development since 2020 will be available for the public to view at the Hills Hub in Emerald.

“The launch went quite well. Around 50 people turned up – so that was really lovely,” said artist Ms Sharp.

“It has been quite a long project and so far we have raised nearly $2000 for the local SES and CFA,” she said.

The aim of the Hills with Heart project was to invite local hills families to participate in a photography session and Ms Sharp said that the idea has been on her mind since the storms in 2020.

“I wanted to do more to help than the small donations that I could make. We all felt quite helpless to do anything of significance and there were so many people needing help,” she said.

Reflecting on the photography sessions themselves, Ms Sharp said she thinks that at the time

some families didn’t realise they needed them.

“Some families did just do it for the donation aspect – but to see their hearts glow up when they

see the outcome of their final images, that was pretty beautiful as well,” she said.

A daughter of a career firefighter, Ms Sharp said she was glad she persisted with getting the project launched and finished.

“My dad, who was always a career firefighter

and then once he retired, he volunteered with the SES - he passed away,” she said.

“He really gave me the drive to keep going with the project.”

Ms Sharp plans to continue with bigger project themes like Hills with Heart and is currently planning a shoot involving people with red hair and will donate to another charity with the money raised.

“We’re a family of redheads – myself and all of my three children,” she said.

“What I want to do is just get a huge amount of redheads together for a massive group photograph.”

For now, the public can continue to enjoy the Hills with Heart exhibition and Ms Sharp said the portraits hold a really special place in her heart.

“I love looking back at family portraits, and I can see that sort of translating into other families who have now got these memories that they can look back on in years to come,” she said.

The Hills Hub in Emerald is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 2.30pm and the exhibit is free. People can continue to make gold coin donations to the SES or CFA while the project is live.

Vibrant new artwork brought to life by Tecoma students

By Tanya Steele

After a team effort a bright and cheerful mural has been created for the community by local students and has now been proudly displayed in Tecoma.

Adding a bright spot to the outside of Tecoma Primary School the almost completely installed new artwork is now available for the public to enjoy along Burwood Highway in Tecoma.

Tecoma Primary School art teacher Jane McManamon said the artwork came about after the Yarra Ranges Council contacted them to commission the project after a new retaining wall was built along the school’s border.

Students in grades one, two, five and six got to work creating collages and artwork after a few brainstorming sessions that had the students put forth local flora and fauna and the mountains around Tecoma as a recurring theme of what they wanted to create.

“So the grade ones and twos – they did a paper cut collage of flora around the school,” said Ms McManamon.

“They grabbed different bits of trees and things that they could use and then represent in their collage,” she said.

“The grade five and sixes made fabric collage birds.”

The project expanded when graphic designer and vice president of the school council Travis Cochrane stepped in to help design the finished artwork, which incorporated the student’s work into a bigger design.

“The hard part was then selecting which ones to use, as I was definitely spoiled for choice, with so many great images to work with,”

said Mr Cochrane.

“It was a great pleasure to be involved in a project that not only showcased the wonderful work of the students but also something that hopefully helps to have a positive impact on the

school and the community,” he said.

“Creativity is one of the Tecoma Primary School’s values, and I’d like to think the mural encourages and highlights the important role art and creative expression can play in our lives.”

Mr Cochrane said as part of the process he vectorised the art pieces, bringing them into Adobe illustrator to create the layouts to go on each panel.

“The end result being a montage of up to eight or so individual original collages by the students on each panel,” he said.

“A terrific team effort from all involved.”

Yarra Ranges Council assisted with both funding and coordination for the project and local business owner Brad from YV Signs helped with the final output and installation.

The students have been excited to see the transformation that their work has gone through after creating their original pieces earlier this year.

“One of the students has said to me, ‘I saw my bird and it’s huge’ - so there is great excitement at seeing their artwork,” said Ms McManamon.

“The background is made up of all the different grade one and two collages, so there’s quite a lot of those and the kids have had a lot of fun just trying to pick out where,” she said.

Assisting the kids with such a large-scale project is a first for Ms McManamon and she said it’s really nice to see their work on display for the community to enjoy.

“It’s 80 centimeters off the ground and we get lots of traffic from the school kids and the kinder,” she said.

“They (the kids) can be appreciated on a large scale by the community.”

Anyone strolling or driving past Tecoma along the highway can now enjoy the new addition.

Ms Sharp has enjoyed finishing the project and raising money for the local SES and CFA.

The exhibition has launched at the hills hub and is open until 23 September. (Supplied)

Left to right: Maxime and Jepi show off their birds. (Supplied)

Burwood Highway in Tecoma is a little bit brighter now. (Stewart Chambers)

Left to right: Natalie, Hannah and Ben show their finished work. (Supplied)

NEWS Leap into literacy learning

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)

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

The curse of social media

Maria Millers

Behind the perfectly filtered facade, Our souls are silently screaming, Chasing likes and validation, Into a virtual abyss, teeming.

Patricia A Fleming, The Curse of Social Media Clearly the world which many of us grew up in has changed.

In today’s digital era smartphones, tablets, and laptops have become an integral part of our lives just as notebooks, pens, telephones and cameras used to be.When the World Wide Web was developed in the early 90s, it held out so much promise.

It was seen as a public good—a space for education, collaboration, the free exchange of ideas and a great way to keep in touch.

Social media allowed more immediate connection with far flung family and friends.

Many of us now have community groups, acquaintances and family we regularly reach out to via the internet.

The connection aspect of the internet remains as important as ever – as we all saw during the Covid lockdowns.But the sepia coloured childhood memories, of families sitting down together after dinner to watch a favourite program on the one and only television set in the home are long gone.

So too are the times when parents would still tell their 14 year old to get off the phone and help with the washing up.

That 14 year old is probably in her room with her own device checking out the latest posts on her personal account and agonizing over how many ’friends’ and ‘likes’ she has.

WOORILLA WORDS

I wonder just how many likes I will get, And maybe a comment or two.

But what if they simply ignore me today?

I just don’t know what I will do. Comparing my page to all of my friends, Can cause me such worry and pain.

They have far more likes and a long list of friends, It makes me feel insecure and ashamed.

Patricia A Fleming

And do parents know exactly what their young are watching on the many platforms they can now access?

Today there’s business and uncertainties in the lives of families which often leaves young people to their own devices (Pardon the pun).

The recent concerns about the potentially harmful effects of social media have initiated a public debate and an awareness that long exposure to social media can lead to many problems.

Some even argue that childhood has been stolen. They compare this generation of youth to the

TERM 4 COURSE GUIDE

Painting Ceramics

With Terri Fealy

Saturdays 10.30am-12.30pm

26th October- 30th November (6 wks) $75

Gozleme & Baklava

With Arzu Yilmaz

Monday 28th October 7-9pm $75 + $17 for ingredients

so called Doomed Generation wiped out by the new technology of weapons in WW1 as described by poet Wilfrid Owens.

Not all agree.

Writing recently about the government’s proposed social media bans, climate activist Anjali Sharma argues that Social Media has made it easier for young people to access the news, be informed and elevate awareness, and as in her case lead to active involvement.

One could point out that relying just on Social Media headlines could be denying a deeper understanding of complex issues.

But risks do exist for the vulnerable: particularly the youth. Social Media fosters a comparison culture when idealized, curated versions of others can leave young people with feelings of inadequacy and low esteem leading to anxiety, depression and worse.

Poet Emily Roberts in The Synthetic Smile offers a critical view of Social Media and its impact on our self-esteem and mental well-being.

The poem captures the façade we often present on social platforms and how it leads to pressure to conform:

I wear a mask of smiles and delight,

Crafting an image that feels just right.

But behind the screen, I yearn for connection,

Aching for validation, a moment of affection.

And while electronic devices have revolutionised communication, they have also brought about a sense of disconnection, so that we often forget to appreciate the real world around us.

Emily Reynolds in,”Pixels and Petrichor

Term 4 2024

Watercolour & Drawing

With Jingru Li

Tuesdays 10am- 12.30pm 15th Oct - 10th Dec (no class 5th Nov)(8 wks) $255

Learn to Crochet for Beginners

With Beth TurleyCarmah Designs

Wednesdays 10am-12noon 6th- 27th Nov. (4 weeks) $100

Yoga With Sam Moore

Mondays 7th Oct- 2nd Dec (no class 4th Nov- 8 Wks) 7.15-8.15pm $144

Wreath Making With local artist: Monika Poray

Saturday 30th November 10.30am- 12pm $40

Junior Dance Clubfor children

With For The Love Of Dance Mondays 2-2.45pm 7th Oct- 9th Dec (10 wks) $170

Ballroom & Latin for Beginners

With For The Love Of Dance Thursdays 7-7.45pm 10th Oct - 12th Dec (10 wks) $170

Soap Making With Sharnn Watts: Earthwise Healing

Saturday 19th October 1-3pm $130

Photography: Street Walk

There are also undoubtedly present dangers of predatory sexual activities with the gullible, lonely and insecure at risk

While many measures are being proposed and implemented, protecting children on social media remains a complex issue requiring collaboration between governments, tech companies, and civil society to create a safer online environment for young users.

In all this the role of parents is crucial.

Too many parents are not good as role models to their children and may shun the responsibility of monitoring their children’s online activity.

Many are themselves addicted to obsessive scrolling, texting and clicking, thus normalising this behaviour for their children.

It is not uncommon to see parents using tablets as pacifiers and as a lullaby for getting a child to sleep. In the meantime the changes being proposed is an opportunity for parents to discuss with their children how they’re using Instagram and other social media platforms.

No matter what safety measures are in place, it’s vital for parents to build and maintain a sense of openness and trust so young people can turn to them with questions, and share difficulties and challenges they encounter online.

So take care of the young that you have in your life,

Don’t let social media win.

Nurture and protect their fragile esteem, Be a true and accepting, real friend.

Patricia A Fleming Entries for the Woorilla Poetry Prize close on 30 September.

ACRO: Acrobatics & Dance -for children

With For The Love Of Dance Mondays 1.30-2pm 7th Oct- 9th Dec (10 wks) $100

With Suzanne Phoenix Saturday 7th December 10am-1pm $120 Ultimate Mediterranean Meze With Arzu Yilmaz Monday 21st October 7-9pm $75 + $17 for ingredients

Burlesque for Beginners

With For The Love Of Dance Thursdays 8-8.45 pm 10th Oct- 12th

TERM 4 COURSE GUIDE

Celebration of music, arts

SelbyFest, a vibrant and free community festival, returns to the Dandenong Ranges on Saturday 23 November from 2pm to 8pm at the Selby Community House. This year’s festival promises a lively celebration of the region’s unique environment, culture, and inclusivity.

Visitors can enjoy non-stop live music, performed on an outdoor stage nestled among the gum trees in the amphitheatre, alongside roaming entertainers and buskers scattered throughout the festival grounds. The event also features market stalls showcasing sustainable, ethical, and handmade goods, as well as food trucks catering to a variety of tastes, including vegan options.

The festival is perfect for families and people of all ages, with plenty of children’s activities, including hands-on art projects, interactive environmental education, and nature walks through the stunning Minak Reserve and Indigenous Bush Food Garden.

SelbyFest provides an incredible platform for local artists, musicians, and performers to showcase their talents. Music will be hosted by the Selby Folk Club in collaboration with 3MDR, the local radio station.

For ease of access, a free shuttle bus will run throughout the festival, traveling between Belgrave and SelbyFest, with stops in between. Festival goers can park in Belgrave or at Selby Primary School and hop on the shuttle.

Stay tuned for updates on the festival lineup and shuttle stops, which will be shared on the Facebook and Instagram pages for Selby Community House.

Come join us for a day of music, art, culture, and connection in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges! Head to SelbyFest this November to find live music and loads of stalls to browse. (Supplied)

Computer Courses

Wellbeing Courses

BRAINWORKS (24LITBWK01)

Are you up for a challenge? Join our program to train your memory, stimulate your concentration, work your reactivity, challenge your logic and Increase your confidence.

Mondays 11:00 am - 1:00 pm 7 October - 9 December Bayswater Library Wednesdays 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm 9 October - 11 December Knox Library Fridays 9:00 am - 11:00 am 11 October-13 December Boronia library FREE

WELLBEING (24LITHFWK1)

11:00 am - 1:00 pm 10 October-12 December Mountain District Leaming Centre $60

LAPTOP COMPUTER GROUP (24DLE2)

Do you want to be safe and secure when online, as well as increasing your confidence when using your laptop? This program will help you gain confidence in using a range of digital skills. Tuesdays 10:00 am - 12:00pm 8 October - 10 December Belgrave Library FREE

On-Line Fun Only

These classes will be held live via the Zoom online platform. It is not a pre- recording and will be like our other classes: engaging, interactive and FUN. It is very easy to join.

MOVIE CHAT CLUB (24LITRWN01) Have you watched a good movie recently? Join henk for Movie Chat Club; every Wednesday night, talk about movies you’ve enjoyed and would like to recommend to others. Meet new people and talk about movies.

Wednesdays 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

9 October - 11 December FREE

Explore creative activities, puzzles, quizzes, riddles and gratefulness to discover how Improvements to mental health and wellbeing can help us meet the challenges of everyday living. Fridays 11:00 am - 1:00 pm 11 October-13 December Boronia Library FREE

Saturday Workshops

SMART PHONES (24DLE2) How smart are they? What can your Smart phone do for you? Sign up for this workshop and find out!

Saturdays 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 12 October, 2 November and 7 December Boronia Library FREE

•

•

and caravans. Need child restraints fitted or your air conditioning serviced and regassed? Emmanuel has you covered.

Customers are raving about Emmanuel’s

service! Brian Dickson shared, “Emmanuel did a 150,000km service on my Ford Ranger. He was punctual, explained everything, and even pumped up my spare tyre. Highly recommend it!” Sushi Mar praised Emmanuel for being on time, friendly, and professional. Tyrone Oliver said, “Best my car has driven since I had it. Em-

manuel changed filters I didn’t know were in the car and did a thorough job. Highly recommended and a great bloke to boot. Give him a call –you’ll be more than happy.” Join the growing list of satisfied clients. Book your appointment with Emmanuel today at 0435 225 564

Easy E’s Mechanical owner Emmanuel travels across the east making mechanic services all the more easy.

(Stewart Chambers: 206531)

Emmanuel has over 10 years experience servicing cars of all kinds. (Stewart Chambers: 280547)

REV IT UP

care drives team

New Belgrave Motors are reliable, experienced and always go the extra mile.

Owners and dynamic duo Shane and Cindy Taylor say safety is the number one priority.

“We keep our customers and their families safe in roadworthy, reliable cars,” they said. Bringing bountiful experience to the job, no vehicle is too big or small with extensive service options available for all kinds of cars and 4WDs.

Licensed Vehicle Testers for Vic Roads (RWCs) and VACC-approved repairers, New

Motors also has two courtesy cars that can be reserved free of charge when booking a service.

Founded in the ‘90s, Shane has been with New Belgrave since 1998 and enjoys working on older vehicles.

Sharing his passion Cindy said many mechanics shy away from older cars.

“We love them!” she said.

Cindy started with New Belgrave in 2007, doing the books on the weekends and the pair

bought the business in 2010, relocating from Belgrave to Ferntree Gully in 2018.

“Nearly all of our amazing customers still travel down the hill to see us for their servicing and repairs, and we are so very grateful for this support,” Cindy said.

Thoughtful touches like iconic lolly bags for the ride home and key rings with bottle openers highlight the team’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

The team will keep you updated via phone

calls and texts and there’s a comfy couch, coffee machine and free wifi.

Waiting customers can also get to know the shop budgie Mr Pickles (you read that correctly!) and puppy Lillee.

Trading hours are 8am - 5pm Monday to Friday, with an RDO every third Monday. Pop in today and meet the crew at 19 Kevin Avenue Ferntree Gully. Book now and get a free quote on 03 9125 6362.

New Belgrave Motors’ Louis, Max, Cindy and Shane provide customers with care and passion when servicing vehicles. (Stewart Chambers: 432497)

New Belgrave Motors’ Cindy with Lillee and Mr Pickles, the resident pets. (432497)

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can

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)

STYLISH HOME WITH SUPERB VIEWS

STYLISH, CENTRAL, AND SPACIOUS HOME WITH SUPERB VIEWS

BOASTING beautiful vista views, a surplus of living space, and a premier position only 500m from Upwey township, this sophisticated family residence offers a truly outstanding lifestyle. Poised atop a 1,559sqm (approx.) allotment with sealed drive, expansive workshop, covered parking, and impressive outdoor entertaining areas, this unique property has it all.

The interior of this character-filled home is enriched with high ceilings, large windows, polished timber floors, and leadlight accents. The primary level is hugged by wrap-around covered and open decking to make it ideal for entertaining. At its heart of the gorgeous galley kitchen with beautiful benchtops and lovely gas range. Framed by a formal lounge with wood fire and ceiling roses as well as a conservatory-style meals area and versatile dining/sitting room, this is a home you can grow into. Add to this a sprawling upper level living area with French windows to a Juliet balcony that soaks up the spectacular outlooks, and every member of the family will find their own special place to relax and unwind.

Equally impressive are the 4 bedrooms with built-in robes including the main bedroom with stylish ensuite. The family bathroom features a modern soaking tub and floating vanity and the laundry is generously proportioned. Gas ducted heating, split system heating/cooling, and external blinds ensure comfort in every season.

Designed for discerning buyers who want a precise balance of location and liveablity, this property is a rare find. Treat yourself to a tour today.

Beautiful 1,559sqm (approx.) property with spectacular views

• Large character-filled home with wraparound decking

• Versatile living areas including a generous lounge with wood fire Gorgeous galley kitchen with quality appliances

Modern family bathroom, impressive underhouse storage, and large workshop.

HOME FOCUS

OPTIMAL FAMILY COMFORT

AS picturesque as it is practical, this beautiful property is the perfect place to make

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

HOME ESSENTIALS

• 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

Address: 11 Blackwood Street, TECOMA Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 garage Price: $1,100,000 - $1,200,000 Inspect: By appointment

Contact: Suzie Brannelly 0490 506 910 and Daniel Steen 0434 979 142, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE, 9754 6888

GEMBROOK FAMILY HOME WITH CHARM

NESTLED on a sprawling 2193sqm block in the heart of Gembrook, this charming home offers a serene country lifestyle.

Step into the loungeroom, where the woodfire creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for chilly evenings, floor to ceiling windows letting in lots of light and access to the deck area, with new carpets throughout the home, adding a fresh feel.

The expansive master bedroom is a true retreat, with large windows that flood the space with natural light, a generous walk-in robe, and a spacious ensuite for privacy and comfort.

Upstairs you will find an open plan kitchen/ dining area. The kitchen is equipped with an integrated oven and gas stove top, an island bench for meal preparation and plenty of storage. With access to the verandah from the dining area offering seamless indoor-outdoor flow.

The home offers 3 additional bedrooms, two of which have built in robes. A central bathroom with separate toilet and laundry completes the interior layout.

Outside, the property is designed for those who love to the outdoors, with 2 garden sheds for storage and several animal enclosures complete with running water, making it ideal for hobby farming.

This property offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience and space, all within the tranquil setting of Gembrook.

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

Call Bethany Sullivan 0438 844 968.

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

Setamidstalmost2 acresofsprawlinggardens.This5BRresidence,isa homeofoutstandingquality. Traditionalloungewherea grandfireplaceisthecentrepiece,adjoinsthediningroom.Expansive kitchencraftedinsolidMyrtledoors,Stonebenchtops &Europeanappliances,witha generousWI cornerpantry.Themainbedroomfeaturingdoublemirroredwalk-throughrobethatleadstoan ensuite,inadditionto ahugeWIrobe.Thecentralbathroom,withitsclawfootbath.Informalfamily diningopensontothelivingroomwarmedby aslowcombustionheatersetin alimestonefireplace. TasmanianOakflooring,doubleglazedwindows& reversecycleairconditioner.Thepaved courtyardfeaturesa remote-controlawning.Expansivelawns,outdoorentertainingareas,cascading stream &stonefeaturewalls.GDH,doublegarage& shedarejusta fewofthenumerousfeatures.

Nestleddowna quietroad,thislovelybrickhomecanbefoundonapproximately1/3ofanacre offlatland.Enteringthroughthefrontdoorintothekitchenwithgasstove,electricoven,D/W& plentyofstorage.Lookingouttotheopenplanlounge/diningarea,withslidingdoortotheprivate courtyard.Thehomealsohasductedheatingthroughout.Downthehallwayare2 bedrooms, leadingintothelaundry.Tothefrontofthehouseisthemasterbedroomwithdoublerobes &adjoins thebathroomwithseparatetoilet.Outsideleadstoa largegarage/workshopwithconcretefloor& power.Besidethegarageisa 10,000ltrwatertank &garden.Thegardenhaslotsofroomforthekids toplay &islinedwithtreestoallowprivacy.

GembrookFamilyHomewithCountryCharm. Nestledona sprawling2193sqmblockintheheartofGembrook,thischarminghomeoffersa serenecountrylifestyle.Stepintotheloungeroom,wherethewoodfirecreatesa warm &inviting atmosphere,floortoceilingwindows &accesstothedeckarea,withnewcarpetsthroughoutthe home.Theexpansivemasterbedroom,withlargewindows, agenerousWIR,& spaciousensuite. Upstairsyouwillfindanopenplankitchen/diningarea.Thekitchen,equippedwithanintegrated oven &gasstovetop,islandbench &plentyofstorage.Withaccesstotheverandahfromthedining areaofferingseamlessindoor-outdoorflow.Thehomeoffers 3additionalbedrooms,twoofwhich haveBIR. Acentralbathroomwithseparatetoilet& laundry.Outside,with 2gardenshedsforstorage &severalanimalenclosurescompletewithrunningwater,makingitidealforhobbyfarming.

BethanySullivan M 0438844968 AaronDay M 0407365994 4

Asyoudrivedownthesealeddriveyouwillfindthishiddengemfeaturing4 bedrooms,2 bathrooms, doublecarport, &solarheatedpool.Onenteringthehomeyouarewelcomedbytheloungeroom withwoodfire.AdjacentisthemasterbedroomwithWIR,ensuite& Frenchdoors.Downthehallyou willfind 2bigbedrooms,0newithdoublerobes &largecolonialwindows.Thekitchen/meals/family roomisopenplan &featuresa woodheaterwhilstthehomehasmainsGDHthroughout.Thekitchen hasa newdishwasher,electricwalloven &900mminductioncooktop, &plentyofbenchspace.At thisendofthehomeisthe4thbedroom,familybathroom &laundrywithrearyardaccess.Outside hasa doublecarport,lockableshed,& stepsleadingtothesolarheatedingroundpool.

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.

Designedforcomfort &modernliving,thischaracter‘A’Framerenovatedhomehas everythingyou’dwant.Setina quietsettingonapprox.823sqm& offers abedroom upstairswith aresort-styleensuite,downstairsfeaturesanopen-planliving& dining,wood heater,hydronicheating,kitchenwith aconcretebenchtop,powderroom &undercover decking.Outsidethereis aseparatestudio,pavedareas,doublecarport,sealed driveway,fullyfenced,electricfrontgateplusaccesstothepropertyisvia asealedroad.

MickDolphin 0429684522

AlisonBarkley 0494175410 COMFORTANDTIMELESSBEAUTY

PRIVATE,PEACEFULWITHSERENEVIEWS

Thisclinker-brickhomeoffers awealthoffeaturesthatinclude asealeddriveway, 3car carport,mudroom,4thbedroom/studywithdirectaccesstooutsideonthelowerlevel 2generouslivingareas,onewithhighceilings.KitchenequippedwithCaesarstone benchtops,mastersuitewitha luxuriousfreestandingbath,renovatedfamilybathroom, ductedvacuum,double-glazedwindows,anatticspaceabovecarportthatcanbe usedasanofficeorforextrastorage,frontbalconywithviewsandmanicuredgardens

MickDolphin 0429684522

ErinDavies 0493136937

$1,100,000-$1,200,000

Fromthemomentyoustepinside,youwilllovethe3-metre-highceilings,elegantleadlight accentsthroughout,Frenchdoors,thetimber-linedcathedralceilings,mezzaninestudy, gorgeoushostesskitchen,familybathroomwith acornerspa,separatepowderroom GDH,twogaslogfireplacesand asplitsystem.Step outsideandyouwillfind apaved courtyard,landscapedgardenswithherbbeds& citrustrees,bluestonesteps,anda private five-personspanestledwithinthegarden.Walkingdistanceto

JanBrewster 0409558805

RURALOUTLOOKON2/3ACRE

Multi-generationallivingand flexibilitycomestotheforehere.Featuresincludethe masterwithrenovatedensuiteanda WIR, arenovatedkitchenincludinganopenplan familyroom,separatelounge,sunroomandanundercoverdeck.Completelyseparate downstairsoffers alargecentrallivingroom,a bedroomwithWIR,anoffice,a fully equippedkitchenanditsownverandahanddecking.Thepropertyalsoincludesmultiple splitsystems, agas fireheater,GDHand3 sheds.Ruraloutlookin aquietpartofEmerald.

0494142438

YOUR FOREVER FAMILY HOME

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?

Young Hawks fight hard

By Armin Richter

Under 15s do Monbulk proud

It was grand final day for the Premier Division of Outer East on Saturday at Officer, which included the Under 15s. The young Hawks had caused a huge upset when they defeated ROC by two goals a fortnight ago to progress straight through to the decider. This clearly woke up the Kangaroos as they demolished Narre Warren 45-10 last week to force a rematch.

ROC were playing on their home courts and settled down first to take control of the match by half time with a commanding 25-8 lead. The Hawks threw around their team and fought hard to get back into the game. Monbulk had by far the best of the play in the second half, as light drizzle fell, and reduced the margin to 14 goals when the game concluded. This team had gained enormous respect in their first season.

Monbulk 21 def by ROC 35

• Best: Bridie McCormick, Lara Stenhouse, Isabelle Cross

• Goals: Lara Stenhouse 14, Isla Stubbs 5, Kaitlyn Summers 2 Monbulk FNC held their presentation night on Saturday evening with the following results:

• Football

• Seniors

• Best & Fairest (Jennings Medal) - Lochlan Beecroft

• Runner Up Best & Fairest - Joshua Spencer

• Third Best & Fairest - Patrick Barge

• Most Improved Riley Finlay

• Best Team Player Declan Browne

• Best First Year Player Will Henderson Reserves

• Best & Fairest - Lewis Oliver

• Runner Up Best & Fairest - Hamish Emmett

• Third Best & Fairest - Nicholas Taylor

• Most Improved - Tait Colee

• Most Determined - Matthew James

Women’s

• Best & Fairest - Shania Turner

• Runner Up Best & Fairest - Madeline Caarels

• Third Best & Fairest - Scarlett Henderson

• Most Determined - Josie Ford

• Most Consistent - Yanessa Hancock-Wolfe

• Most Improved - Hannah Joy

• Best Player In Finals - Ruby Ross

Netball

• A Grade • Best & Fairest (Shayne Broekhof Medal) - Geor-

gia Himmelreich

• Runner Up Best & Fairest - Stephanie Ferguson

• Coach’s Award - Sophie Stubbs

B Grade

• Best & Fairest - Siobhan Munday

• Runner Up Best & Fairest - Rihanna Kelly

• Coach’s Award - Georgia Wilson + Chloe Schmidtke

C Grade

• Best & Fairest - Sammi Kelly

• Runner Up Best & Fairest - Lisa Boyle

• Coach’s Award - Laura Del Biondo

D Grade

• Best & Fairest - Maddy Buckland

• Runner Up Best & Fairest - Hayley Donald

• Coach’s Award - Ella Flynn Under 15s

• Best & Fairest - Stevie Mullinder

• Runner Up Best & Fairest - Isabelle Cross

• Most Consistent - Bridie McCormick

• Best Player In Finals - Isla Stubbs

• Best Club Person - Sascha Wolfe and Nicole Macdowell

• President’s Award - P.J. Donald

The Hawks have also announced their coaches for 2025 with Matt Cunningham (Seniors), Johnathon Hevern (Reserves), Chris Hughson (Under 18s), Sascha Wolfe (Women’s football), Christina Puopolo (A + B Grade), Tom Hardwick (C Grade + Junior co-ordinator) and Fiona Carmichael (D Grade) taking charge of the teams.

Lara Stenhouse shoots one of her 14 goals in the Under 15s Grand Final. (Supplied)

Isla Stubbs of Monbulk beats her ROC opponent to the ball.

Narre Warren exit on top

By Armin Richter Football

Narre Warren will join the Southern League next year but had a few matters to sort out first with grand final appearances in the Outer East Premier Division. Having lost just once during the year, in round 11 at Upwey, the Magpies had the opportunity to seek redemption for last season’s grand final capitulation to Wandin as the same two sides again met in the decider.

With a breeze blowing across the ground to the outer wing of the Officer ground, Narre Warren made the most of opportunities to register six first quarter goals. The Princes Highway end appeared to be favoured by the conditions and when the Bulldogs were restricted to a single major for the second term the Magpies looked well placed with a four goal lead by half time. Narre Warren finished the game strongly to eventually run out 40 point winners and exact revenge for their loss in 2023.

Narre Warren 14.10.94 def Wandin 7.12.54

• Best: Narre Warren - Tom Toner, Jesse Davies, Hayden Dwyer, Brad Scalzo, Peter Gentile, Jacob Mutimer

• Wandin - Damien Furey, Aaron Mullett, Samuel Hodgett, Todd Garner, Patty Bruzzese, Jordan Jaworski

• Goals: Narre Warren - Tom Toner 4, Hayden Dwyer 4, Peter Gentile 2, Hamish West 1, Will Howe 1, Sam Johnson 1, Brayden Sharp 1

• Wandin - Clinton Johnson 2, Jordan Jaworski 2, Daniel Hirst 1, Brodie Atkins 1, Patrick Hodgett 1 The Reserves played in a strong cross wind which resulted in some scrappy play and low scoring. Upwey-Tecoma had dominated during the year, suffering just one loss and finishing with a percentage of 393. In a replay of last year’s Grand Final the Tigers were again to meet Narre Warren. With the conditions mitigating against good play, Upwey-Tecoma were held to just two goals as they missed numerous opportunities to eventually go down by 7 points. Pakenham defeated their neighbours Officer in the Under 19s finale which was decided in the third term when the Lions scored four goals and established a 30 point lead.

• Reserves - Narre Warren 4.3.27 def UpweyTecoma 2.8.20

• Under 19s - Pakenham 8.6.54 def Officer 5.6.36 Netball

The two best teams in A Grade, Mt. Evelyn and Narre Warren, met in the Grand Final in what turned out to be an epic struggle. There were never more than a few goals separating the Rovers and Magpies and it was Narre Warren that prevailed by a solitary goal to give them the footballnetball double for 2024. C and D Grade were also decided by a goal as large crowds at the netball courts drowned out the football in exciting finishes.

• A Grade - Narre Warren 43 def Mt. Evelyn 42

• B Grade - ROC 45 def Narre Warren 41

• C Grade - Narre Warren 40 def Wandin 39

• D Grade - ROC 29 def Narre Warren 28

• Under 17s - ROC 34 def Wandin 23

• Under 15s - ROC 35 def Monbulk 21

Aaron Mullett of Wandin was one of the Dog’s best in the Grand Final loss to Narre Warren. (Supplied)

A Grade Final, Narre Warren 43 defeated Mt Evelyn 42 in front of a packed court.

Mt. Evelyn’s Rory Barr and Narre Warren’s Gabrielle Dwyer fight for possession in the A Grade Final.

Under 19s Grand Final - Pakenham defeated Officer.

C Grade Grand Final - Narre Warren block a Wandin shot at goal.

A Grade Final, Mt Evelyn’s Montana Willis takes a pass in front of Narre Warrens’ Captain Brittany Mashado.

Under 17s Grand Final - ROC defeated Wandin.

Narre Warren’s Jesse Davies took this mark of the year contender in the dying stages of the Senior Grand Final.

Upwey-Tecoma’s Benjamin Wood marks in the Reserves Grand Final against Narre Warren.

Welcome to Clovelly Cottage. Nestled in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges but still within close proximity to the Boronia Junction shopping precinct and amenities, it is a place our residents are proud to call home. Featuring abundant indoor and outdoor spaces with a choice of private sanctuaries and communal living, we are dedicated to delivering excellence in care and services that enable residents to live well and celebrate the autumn years of their life.