Mail - Upper Yarra Star Mail - 5th November 2024

A frightful sight!

Cire Services’ annual Halloween Street Party took over Yarra Junction again on Thursday 31 October, with frights and sweet delights the theme of the night.

Trick-or-treaters started their adventure at the Cire Community Hub in Yarra Junction from 4pm, decked out in costumes, where they checked in to receive their scavenger hunt card and for some, a special show bag if they booked online early. 2000 show bags were available.

Once the scavenger hunt card was collected, trick-or-treaters set out into the town centre of Yarra Junction, visiting local businesses to collect stamps on their card and bundles of lollies to fill their bags and buckets.

The Yarra Centre transformed into a haunted house, Black Snake Productions’ Reptile Experience brought creepy, crawly critters to the day and since cream and food trucks made sure no one went hungry.

Turn to page 14 for more

Businesses fed up with council as they urge them to...

Clean the streets

By Dongyun Kwon

Business owners on Healesville Main Street are disappointed at Yarra Ranges Council (YRC), claiming there is much room to improve in its management of street cleaning.

The owners have suffered from the uncleaned street, especially when it’s filled with dust, fallen leaves and dirt despite their efforts to tidy it up.

The owner of Fluid Lounge Bar, Garry Christie, has tried to fix this recurring issue and contacted YRC numerous times, asking to manage the relevant contractors in the better way over the last few years.According to the business owner’s claim, there are three main issues repeatedly happening on the Main Street of Healesville, especially from the intersection of Church Street and Maroondah Highway to his business, located next to the

Healesville Post Office; a messy footpath which gets slippery, clogged drains which cause flooding during rain events and unclean litter bins.

Mr Christie used to work for the council of Healesville/Yarra Ranges for 15 years and said his expectation has never been unrealistic.

“I’m a little more informed than most and I’ve got reasonable expectations,” he said.

“It’s a recurring theme, they wait till things get so bad. This time around, I probably made three off-the-cuff phone calls to them to let them know that it was an issue, and every time, it escalates to more phone calls, emails, backwards and forth.”

Continued page 3

“It’s the inconsistency with the council on how they control the contracts that they give out for the cleaning, whether that be the bins or the footpath cleaning or the gutter kerb channel cleaning.

Rick from Ben’s Shed Yarra Junction with their crafty coffin. (Stewart Chambers: 440395)

Vandals damage church

By Dongyun Kwon

Another act of vandalism happened in Yarra Glen between Monday 28 October night and Tuesday 29 October morning.

Saint Paul’s Anglican Church Yarra Glen was the victim of the incident.

Churchwarden Colin Lewis couldn’t hide the feeling of distress, describing the incident as “senseless destruction”.

“It doesn’t help anybody in any way,” he said.

“The old infant welfare centre next door has been unused for a long time, and people have vandalised that in the past.

“Idon’tunderstandwhypeopledamageproperty needlessly.”

A passer-by saw the scene and informed the church of the incident on Tuesday morning.

As soon as Mr Lewis heard about the incident, he reported it to police.

“We weren’t there but sometime overnight, somebody came and smashed a whole bunch of windows and a downpipe,” he said.

“It left shattered glass all over the inside of the building. Until we can get that cleaned up, the congregation that meets there won’t be able to use the building because it’s dangerous.

“They don’t appear to have tried to break in and steal anything, so it’s clearly just vandalism.”

Yarra Glen Leading Senior Constable Barry Roberts said Police are aware of the incident and are investigating this incident now.

“Between last night and this morning, unknown persons have smashed 16 windows at the Saint Paul’s Anglican Church Yarra Glen and they’ve also broken PVC downpipe around the back of the building, probably about $4000 worth of damage,” he said.

“We don’t have any suspects at this stage, but an Eyewatch request has been submitted to seek the public’s assistance.”

Saint Paul’s Anglican Church Yarra Glen was attacked by vandals between Monday 28 October night and Tuesday 29 October morning. (Dongyun Kwon: 440742)

SaintPaul’sAnglicanChurchYarraGlen.(440742)

Police are currently investigating the incident. (440742)

Shattered glass was left inside of the building. (440742)

Calls for clean-up

From page 1

Mr Christie is not the type of person who pawns his work off onto someone else as he keeps cleaning the street regularly by himself.

On 23 September, he had to clean the road 10 times because debris kept dropping off onto the street as soon as he cleaned it.

The business owner claimed the cleaning work should be done more than twice a week in certain periods of the year.

“Council will not tell me and give me details of what the contract entails, what exactly it is that they have to do, but through different conversations over the years, I’m aware that the footpath, the whole Main Street from the east end down to Terminus Hotel has to be done with the machine twice a week,” he said.

“There are three times a year, there’s the period that’s just gone, all that furry stuff comes off [the trees] and gets everywhere. When they drop all the acorns, it gets all broken down with all the weekend traffic and everything and it’s a real mess, and then there’s autumn when they lose all the leaves.

“There’s a period of time when it probably doesn’t need as much cleaning from now onwards through to summer, but three times a year, it is particularly bad where all the debris and other stuff block the drains and everything.”

One of the reasons Mr Christie is keen to see a better service for street cleaning is because it is related to safety issues.

He said there are some particular spots where it gets really slippery if they are not well managed.

“A lady carrying a little toddler in her arms had a very bad fall out the front there,” Mr Christie said.

“There was another elderly lady, who was all but recovered from hip surgery, went boom down.”

Star Mail asked other businesses on the Main Street of Healesville about what they think about the YRC’s management on this issue.

Five out of six businesses, on the specific part of the Main Street Mr Christie mentioned, are also concerned about YRC’s management on this issue for similar reasons which Mr Christie articulated.

One of the business owners said they deserve better service from the local government for the rates they pay.

“Healesville is a tourist destination,” they said.

“Better service is needed for tourists but also for local residents, especially in Autumn and Winter when leaves fall. It gets slippery.”

Mr Christie is disappointed at YRC’s management on this issue which he described as “deplorable”.

“They’re more than well aware of what the problem is and the ramifications of it. And every year, it’s the same thing and then they blame the contractors and they always try and pass the buck, make it somebody else’s [responsibility] or they’ll use an excuse,” he said.

“I provided them the information and they come back at me and [said] ‘you’re wrong’, so I provided them the video footage and the evidence and photos which proves what I’m telling them is not just hearsay.

“They’ve sent me an email saying that they’re not going to respond to this issue any further.”

New Beginnings, a gift shop located at a different spot on the Main Street, has suffered from a different issue, bird droppings.

Owner Stu Bell uses an app called Snap Send Solve to report the problems to the council.

He is satisfied with the YRC management on the issues that he deals with and said the council is doing the best they can.

“They can’t come and destroy the nest, but every morning they come and clean it,” he said.

“It’s bad on the weekend because they don’t work on weekends.

“They’re thinking of putting some speakers up there to scare the birds.”

YRC has an auditor and a reporting system, which is monitored regularly to keep track of contractors if they do their work as contracted.

YRC built environment and infrastructure acting director Alanna Ford said standard township sweeping is programmed to attend twice a week on Monday and Thursday, and the Main Street is programmed for road sweeping on Tuesday and Friday to follow the footpath sweeper.

“In terms of the footpath/road sweeping contractor they are contracted to sweep the footpaths and roads. If other maintenance works are required residents are encouraged to enter a service request so we can inspect, and action works

if required. Council has a township crew that are focused on these areas and can respond to maintenance issues when required,” she said.

“Bins in Main Street Healesville are emptied five days per week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

“We also implement a summer collection schedule from 1 December to the last day of February, during which bins are emptied twice daily on weekends and public holidays in Healesville Township (main shops) and Queens Park. This is subject to change, and in the past, we have implemented this schedule for Melbourne Cup Weekend and run it until Easter.

“The bins are scheduled for cleaning four times per year or as required.”

Ms Ford said the street is inspected once a week by the supervisor, and the Council’s vacuum truck will attend if required.

“Council recognises that Healesville has many deciduous trees. Maroondah Highway, Healesville, is not swept extra during Autumn with the sweeping machines as it already receives twice weekly sweepings,” she said.

“The community can lodge a request for service anytime by contacting our Customer Service team, by calling 1300 368 333, sending a message on Facebook during business hours or submitting a request on our website anytime.”

IN BRIEF

Chum Creek house roof securing VICSES Lilydale Unit volunteers assisted Healesville SES at an incident following reports of a tree down on powerlines and damage to a roof on Sunday 3 November.

Nil persons were trapped and the structure was deemed nil risk of collapse.

Volunteers attended to make the scene safe and cleared shortly after 11.40am.

Upper Yarra clubs boosting road safety efforts

The Victorian Government and the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) are recognising grassroot football and netball clubs across the state for their work campaigning to prevent road trauma during the 2024 season.

Upper Yarra clubs Woori Yallock, Wandin, Yarra Junction and Warburton-Millgrove have all been announced as successful applicants in the TAC Club Rewards Program for 2024.

Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne has announced 233 community clubs will share in $600,000 to promote road safety in their communities.

“Football and netball clubs are at the heart of our communities and we are fortunate to have so many people campaigning to prevent road trauma,” Ms Horne said.

The clubs will receive up to $10,000 through the program, which is delivered in partnership with AFL Victoria. The program encourages clubs to engage with players, members and their communities on key road safety issues and promote safe behaviours.

“The TAC Club Rewards Program is one of the most important initiatives for community football clubs across the state, providing a fantastic avenue for clubs to actively contribute to the safety of their community and generate valuable funding in the process,” Head of AFL Victoria Greg Madigan said.

Successful clubs are able to use the money for a range of initiatives including education programs, club transport initiatives, new equipment and uniforms and facility upgrades and improvements.

“The power of peer-to-peer support, leadership and education cannot be underestimated – and I thank our local football and netball clubs for being road safety ambassadors and caring for their communities,” Transport Accident Commission CEO Tracey Slatter said.

Universal travel adapter recalled

The Mi Phone Universal Travel Adapter available for purchase at Chemist Warehouse stores nationally between 1 October 2023 and 12 June 2024 has been recalled.

It is the MiP0010 model universal travel power outlet adapter which includes Australian, US, UK and European connection plugs, USB A and USB C. The model number can be found printed on the product.

This product does not comply with required Australian standards. The travel adapter does not provide a protective earthing connection to connected appliances.

There is risk of serious injury or death from electric shock and consumers should stop using the product immediately.

Contact Direct To Retail to:

• make arrangements to get a replacement product in exchange for the affected adaptor;

• or get an authorisation number to allow you to return the adaptor to a Chemist Warehouse store for a full refund.

Contact: Direct To Retail

• info@direct2retail.com.au

Clogged drains cause flooding. (Screenshot of Garry Christie’s video footage)

NEWS Progress in battle with DV

By Callum Ludwig

Following outrage at the rising number of family violence incidents and deaths, a raft of measures have been announced at a state and national level in 2024.

The Star Mail reached out to local Free From Family Violence (FVREE, formerly EDVOS/Eastern Domestic Violence Service) to share their thoughts on the initiatives and funding that have been announced and what impacts they are seeing on the ground.

FVREE chief executive Christine Mathieson said since the Victorian Royal Commission into Family Violence, the Victorian Government has made an unprecedented level of investment, reform, and funding in this critical area.

“These efforts have expanded the policy focus, increased funding, and strengthened the workforce, culminating in the establishment of 17 Orange Doors across Victoria, while these initiatives are commendable and set a leading example, significant shortfalls remain in case management support and recovery funding,” she said.

“Additionally, the lack of financial support for primary prevention and education directed toward specialist family violence services, such as FVREE, poses challenges in delivering holistic outcomes for victim-survivors, their children, and the broader community,”

Furthermore, while the recent Commonwealth financial packages are a welcome step forward, they represent only a small part of the solution, comprehensive and sustained investment is necessary to effectively address the complex needs of those affected by family violence and to create lasting change in our communities.”

Victoria’s Royal Commission into Family Violence was started in 2015 following a number of family violence incidents that made headlines, with 227 recommendations handed down in March 2016, of which the Victorian Government had implemented all by January 2023.

Ms Mathieson said ongoing investment from both Federal and State Governments is essential

across all aspects of the family violence continuum, particularly in primary prevention and recovery.

“For example, our organisation does not receive sustainable funding for our primary prevention initiatives and relies solely on grants, donations, and fee-for-service work, while we recognise that achieving prevention outcomes requires time, violence rates will not decrease without supporting initiatives that tackle the root causes of vio-

lence - gender inequality, at the systemic, community, and individual levels,” she said.

“Additionally, securing long-term recovery services is challenging, as many survivors struggle to access the therapeutic support necessary for their healing.”

“Another critical area is holding perpetrators accountable for their actions, as the incidence of murders continue to rise, we must shift our focus as a society from questioning the behaviour of victim-survivors—asking ‘Why doesn’t she just leave?’—to examining why perpetrators choose to use violence.”

FVREE has been working of a number of their key programs and starting new initiatives to target areas of need they are spotting in their service area, which stretches from Boroondara out to the Yarra Ranges:

Three new Practice Lead roles have been hired to provide dedicated support to victim-survivors who are children and young people, individuals with disabilities, and members of the LGBTIQA+ community.

Staff have undergone extensive training to next year implement the Safe and Together model, which focuses on perpetrators’ patterns of behaviour, recognising the strengths of victim survivors, and prioritising the safety and welfare of both adult and child victims.

Their therapeutic program offer sessions for parents or guardians and children together, as well as individual sessions for parents or guardians and for young people to help in healing and growing together after experiencing family violence.

FVREE’s Primary Prevention Team has worked with 58 students from 12 local primary schools in the Outer East to deliver the Young Leaders for Equality and Respect program, helping students identify gender inequality and promote safer, more inclusive school communities.

Following legislation that came into force last year, businesses are mandated to provide employees with a minimum of 10 days of paid family violence leave and FVREE has been working

with local businesses to provide training for their leaders and staff, ensuring they create a safe and supportive environment for those who may need to use this leave.

Ms Mathieson said homelessness and the misidentification of victim-survivors as perpetrators continue to be a concern in the eastern region.

“Homelessness among women and children due to family violence continues to rise in the eastern region, despite increased investments aimed at helping women and children remain in their homes, many survivors are still forced to flee and seek refuge in crisis accommodation,” she said.

“While we have access to programs that provide temporary crisis housing for victims, securing long-term housing remains a persistent challenge,”

“Some perpetrators actively manipulate police, as well as the justice, health, and child protection systems, for their own advantage, perpetuating family violence, this can have serious implications for the safety and well-being of victim-survivors, as the individuals most in need of protection are often not being safeguarded.”

FVREE also advises victims of domestic, family, and sexual violence to contact 1800RESPECT, the national counselling, information and support service. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, you can call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit their website: 1800respect.org.au.

Ms Mathieson said their key message to victimsurvivors is clear; you’re not alone and support is available.

“As a specialist family violence service, we understand the complex nature of family violence, and clients who engage with us have reported feeling safer as a result,”

“If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, we encourage you to reach out to the Orange Door in your area,”

“Violence is never acceptable, and it’s never your fault. Everyone deserves respect and the right to live free from harm.”

Free Kinder: Enrol for 2025.

Free Kinder is available for three- and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services. Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone) and long day care (childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,563 each year, per child.

At kindergarten, your child will:

• learn language, literacy and numeracy skills through play, art, music and dance

• learn to express themself and make friends in a safe and caring environment

• build skills and confidence before primary school.

Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2025. Visit vic.gov.au/kinder

FVREE responds to the raft of family violence measures announced throughout 2024 and how the issues continues to evolve. (File)

Many still feeling the pinch

By Tanya Steele

Food insecurity remains firmly in the spotlight across the Yarra Ranges as demand for food relief continues and the continued strain is impacting how people are feeding their families.

Volunteers are seeing food fly out of pantries as soon as it lands in them and have noticed different groups of people accessing services that have never needed them before.

Foodbank Victoria Chief Commercial Officer Katie Fisher said when a person is hungry and their kids are hungry, they want to fill their tummies that day.

“Retailers referred to it as a beige spike,” she said.

“It’s what they see in terms of spikes in demand when there’s issues like this cost of living,” she said.

Ms Fisher said consumers were dropping costlier fresh food items like protein and dairy off their regular shops in favour of lower-cost items like chips and pizzas.

“Cost of living is impacting on the decisions that we’re making around what we’re feeding our families,” said Ms Fisher.

This year’s Foodbank Hunger Report for 2024 by Foodbank Victoria confirmed that food insecurity in Australia has reached a critical point. Almost half of low-income households have faced food insecurity in 2024, the worst the situation has been since the cost-of-living crisis began.

Compared to the average population experiencing food insecurity in 2024, those experiencing it for the first time this year were more likely to be young, aged 18-24, fulltime students, people earning higher incomes (over $95,000) and those impacted by natural disasters.

Family and friends serve as informal support to people doing it tough and in the past 12 months, the proportion of Australian households experiencing food insecurity that have received informal food relief has decreased significantly from 32 per cent in 2023 to 25 per cent in 2024.

This suggests that the role of food relief organisations has grown even more essential.

Outer East Foodshare Secretary Marilyn Lambert said they’re noticing a lot more people are seeking food relief and people who are coming for the first time, who’ve never sought food relief before.

“The crunchy thing is, they’re just managing to pay the mortgage or the rent, and they’re just keeping ahead, and then something happens, the fridge breaks down and has to be replaced, or something else, like major car repairs,” she said.

According to Foodbank, the cost of living continues to be the main contributor to food insecurity, with 82 per cent of food-insecure households citing high or increased living expenses as a factor.

Australian households are managing this costof-living situation by saving on everyday essentials, planning meals ahead, and reducing spending on eating out.

Serving the community from East Warburton to Mooroolbark, Love in the Name of Christ (LinC) Fresh Food Coordinator and Treasurer Mark Knoll in the Yarra Valley said there has been a huge uplift in demand in his time at LinC.

“People are now needing more – especially in

the last two months,” he said.

Service demand for LincC has gone up significantly and Mr Knoll said his numbers for this year have increased since July 2023 from just over 100 to averaging around now 180 a week.

Both Ms Lambert and Mr Knoll have also noticed the ‘beige spike’ influenced by the increased strain that people are under.

“Things are not working out for them, and that makes things worse – people can become anxious,” said Ms Lambert.

Ms Lambert said using leftovers to reduce waste and trying to purchase healthier items can save people money.

“It’s amazing the number of kilos that are wasted by households each week,” she said.

Mr Knoll said at LinC they also guide clients to not just take the basics that they’re used to, like pumpkin, potatoes and carrots.

“We try to encourage them to use some of the other newer vegetables, and teach them how to how to use bok choy and stuff that they don’t normally buy.”

Mr Knoll said he has noticed a gap in service emerge for preschool-aged kids and postpartum families.

“It’s becoming a huge issue in the community, with local kindergartens coming to get food so they can give it to the parents, as they pick up their children,” he said.

“They tell me that 20 per cent of the children go to kindergarten without breakfast or any food supplies.”

Mr Knoll said he has also noticed a vulnerability for parents who are in the first throes of having children.

“They start a family, and it’s all right for about the first 16 weeks because they’re on maternity leave. But once that maternity leave drops the infant welfare centre nurses start referring them to

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According to Foodbank, the cost of living continues to be the main contributor to food insecurity, with 82 per cent of food-insecure households citing high or increased living expenses as a factor.

Ms Regan said agencies would love to have more funding to be able to access items such as meat and dairy, particularly those who are running community meals.

“Our most recent survey of agencies say 90 per cent report an increase in demand, over half reported the need for more volunteers and more fresh food; 75 per cent said they need more funding.”

me to help them with food,” he said.

“That’s driving a new class of working poor –most people I talk to don’t realize that, but I see it on the ground.”

Yarra Ranges Emergency Relief Network (YRERN) Project Coordinator Fiona Regan said some agencies are struggling to source sufficient food, as they’re seeing such an increase in demand.

“Many have arrangements with local supermarkets, and now find they need to collect food more regularly in order to stock their food pantries,” she said.

“Any extra work like that of course means more need for volunteers.”

“Agencies assisting people with food relief are also seeing increases in the number of people in insecure housing - either homeless, couch surfing or in inadequate housing and people needing referral for financial and housing assistance.”

A positive outcome seen by Foodbank is the significant increase in awareness of food relief itself.

“There’s a positive lens to that around it’s becoming more acceptable, more mainstream, and there’s an awareness piece of that,” said Ms Fisher.

“The challenge there is you’ve got a whole lot more people needing support from a food relief perspective, and so the demand on charities and food relief agencies,” she said.

Ms Lambert said another positive note is the diversion of food from landfill.

“It’s not just about donated food – you’re actually helping the environment by taking rescue food,” she said.

Mr Knoll said for organizations like LinC, fresh food is the low-cost option.

“LinC runs 100 per cent on volunteers – so there’s no labour cost. The food costs nothing,” he said.

Heading into Christmas and New Year, Ms Fisher said Christmas is expensive, and that the supply chain into the food relief sector is pretty compromised over he holiday period with fewer volunteers available.

At Outer East Foodshare Ms Lambert said they will be providing several ‘pop up’ food access points across the Yarra Ranges, Knox and Maroondah.

“Come January, that’ll have gone and the traditional agencies won’t be open, so that’s where these pop-up markets will fill a big gap,” she said.

“We really would love some new volunteers to put their hands up to help with those markets.”

Mr Knoll said his Yarra Junction location doesn’t close over Christmas, but the other locations will.

“Once January starts, that’s when you see the uplift in demand, because the first couple of weeks of January, and then all the bills for Christmas start hitting that they put on their credit cards, and then that doesn’t finish, and then the school fees start,” he said.

The Foodbank hunger report stated that 47 per cent of Australians know where to get support if they can’t afford enough food, compared to 34 per cent in 2023.

However, the proportion of food-insecure households accessing formal food relief remained relatively steady from 2023, with fear of social stigma being the main barrier.

Food relief providers continue to encourage people to come forward, use the services, get financial help and and connect over community meal services.

“Reach out. You’re not alone. There are so many other people out there, and you can get food,” said Ms Lambert.

“We have something that we can’t ignore – because there’s enough food in Victoria and there’s enough food in Australia to feed every person healthy food,” Ms Fisher said.

“Food is a basic right,” she said.

Outer East Foodshare said they’re noticing a lot more people are seeking food relief and people coming for the first time, who’ve never sought food relief before. (Supplied)

YRC hails ‘great outcomes’

By Callum Ludwig

Despite the current caretaker period as votes for Council elections continue to be counted, Yarra Ranges councillors convened on Tuesday 22 October to endorse the 2023/24 Annual Report, Financial Report and Performance Statement.

Now released, the reports and performance statement outline the ‘operational and financial performance’ of Yarra Ranges Council as well as how well their performance has aligned with the 2021-2025 Council Plan.

Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Sophie Todorov said in the last 12 months, this council group, which she was very proud to be associated with, has achieved great outcomes for the communities of the Yarra Ranges.

“I also wanted to especially acknowledge our community members, the last 12 months have really placed emphasis, focus and value on the community voice and all those diverse voices that we appreciate hearing and their input into all our strategies and plans and their contributions are critical to this success,” she said.

“We’re also focused on deliberative engagement and form part of those discussions that were held over a period of weeks as well where communities spent their time and partook in various workshops around the most important elements of our Council Plan.

“We know that there’s a lot more to do but I can say that we should all be proud of the work that we have done and achieved over the last 12 months together.”

Major achievements listed in the report, and also acknowledged by Cr Todorov, included:

• 337 Capital Works projects carried out with a value of $71.9 million

• Completed over 90 per cent of planned asset investments this year, including upgrades to play spaces, pavilions, drains, roads, and more than half of their 78 public toilets, managing over $1.5 billion worth of existing assets.

• Rehomed 157 animals

• Responded to 124,277 calls to customer service

• Reconstructed over 25,500 square metres of sealed roads.

• Adopted a Housing Strategy, Active Recreation Plan, Nature Plan, Tree Canopy Strategy and an Aquatics and Leisure Strategy.

• Supported 17 arts and heritage project grants with a value of over $160,000, 35 community development grants valued at over $241,000. and 14 festivals and event grants for over $97,000 under the Grants for Community Program.

• Progressed the Wandin North Town Centre Master Plan, the Kilsyth Recreation Reserve Master Plan, the Warburton Urban Design Framework and the Monbulk Urban Design Framework.

From a financial perspective, Yarra Ranges Council’s expected outcomes took a hit but remained in an operating surplus, with increased expenses to blame for the tighter financial position.

At the end of the last financial year, Council’s total revenue was up $7.4 million from their budget prediction but expenses were up $19.6 million, resulting in a comprehensive result of $7.9 million against the adopted budget of $20.1 million (60 per cent lower).

This has been attributed to operating grants being received in July that were budgeted for June, materials and services coming in $6.8 million over budget due to various factors, a net loss of $7.7 million on works in progress that could not be capitalised and the e removal of capital grants from the comprehensive result.

Cr Todorov said at face value, the report would makeitsoundliketheCouncilisfinanciallyrobust, but she thinks financially sound is probably better.

“Certainly in a context of ever-increasing costs, again the focus on efficiency, effectiveness and increasingly on other sources of revenue is a critical piece for every local government and it certainly has been for us,” she said.

“The other piece that I think is really important is the process of checks and balances, the scrutiny and the thoroughness to ensure the accuracy and hopefully the accessibility, in terms of community or anyone who picks up these documents being able to understand them.”

The annual report can be viewed in full at: yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Council/Corporate-documents/Policies-strategies/Annual-report.

Yarra Ranges Council’s 2023-24 Annual Report has been released. (File)

Election result looms

By Tanya Steele

Local election results are just under a week away from final declarations for the Yarra Ranges and some seats look set, while others remain in question.

Progressive count figures after a week of counting on saw numbers for group A posted for public viewing at the Silvan election office on Friday 1 November.

Provisional results will be available after group B counts have been completed and any required preference distribution.

Voting in the Yarra Ranges Shire Council election has now closed and according to the Victorian Electoral commission (VEC) website, Yarra Ranges will be officially declared by 2pm Friday 8 November.

All local council results will be declared by 15 November.

UpagainstsixothercandidatesinO’Shannassy Ward, Jim Child looks set to serve another term holding 47.08 per cent of the votes counted so far.

In Walling Ward Len Cox has landed 69.40 per cent of the provisional votes counted against David Ferrier with 30.60 per cent.

The trio of candidates in Lyster Ward each have around 30 per cent of the votes, Peter Mcilwain leading with 36.86 per cent, Mick Spruhan, with 32.66 per cent and Divesh Sareen, 30.49 per

cent

Streeton Ward so far sees Jeff Marriott with 61.09 per cent of the votes, holding the upper hand against Sigrid Petersen who has pulled in 38.91 per cent so far.

Sophie Todorov remains ahead just above her two other candidates in Melba Ward with 37.49 per cent of votes counted, Mitch Mazzarella is trailing her with 35.90 per cent and Chris Templer has drawn 26.61 per cent of the progressive count.

Chandler Ward has seen Gareth Ward move to the front of the pack with 39.77 per cent, Belinda Grooby coming in with 32.13 per cent and Ashley Hansen 28.09 per cent.

Finally in Billanook Ward, Tim Heenan so far has a count of 56.09 per cent of votes and Wendy Wright is at 43.91 per cent.

Two wards did not need to be counted at all, remaining uncontested this election, Fiona McAllister will be once again serving the people of Ryrie Ward and Richard Higgins remains with Chirnside.

As of Wednesday 30 October 72,624 ballots had been returned, equating to 80.73 per cent of the votes required.

According to the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) website, things which can affect the counting timeline include the number of vacancies in each ward, if results are counted by hand or by computer, how many people are enrolled in

the council and how many candidates there are in each ward.

The VEC uses preferential counting in singlecouncillor wards and proportional counting in multi-councillor wards and unsubdivided councils.

Most preferential counting is done manually by hand, but sometimes, if deemed appropriate, it can be done by computer.

Preferential counting by computer means the VEC enters each voter’s preferences into a computer count application.

An example of where a computer count would be deemed appropriate for single-councillor elections is where there are many candidates in the election or ballot papers to be counted.

The election manager will advise candidates of the time and location of the declaration of results, which is a public event which anyone can attend including candidates, families and friends, community members, council staff, local media and other interested parties.

The election manager will then announce the result of each election and declare the successful candidates elected. The declaration will occur at least four hours after provisional results have been released.

Once the declaration has occurred, the results are final. For more information, visit vec.vic.gov. au/voting/2024-local-council-elections

Cans of gold

On the first anniversary of the introduction of Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS), the state is celebrating another major milestone.

One billion containers have been returned through the scheme, reducing litter and putting money back into Victorians’ pockets. The scheme not only benefits the environment but has injected nearly $100 million back into the community, including over $918,000 to charities and community groups through donation partners.

Visy, operator of the CDS Vic North Zone, has established over 245 refund points across the Loddon, Mallee, and Hume regions and the inner north and eastern suburbs of Melbourne.

These return points include Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs), which offer self-service automated returns, Over-theCounter (OTC) refund points operated by local businesses and community organisations, and Depots, capable of processing larger quantities of containers.

The Yarra Ranges Shire Council has 18 deposit points, with only the Whittlesea and Wodonga LGAs having more. In the Yarra Ranges, 13,204,647 containers have been deposited, consisting of 56 per cent cans, one per cent cartons, 22 per cent glass and 20 per cent plastic. The Powelltown Football Netball Club are the key donation partner for the Yarra Ranges.

Only the Greater Bendigo (28,279,209), aforementioned Whittlesea (27,361,647), neighbouring Knox (23,209,197), Mildura (20,556,825), Greater Shepparton (18,872,380) and Darebin (16,638,665) LGAs have deposited more containers than the Yarra Ranges.

General Manager of CDS at Visy Tim O’Donnell said the success of the scheme proves people care about the environment and love recycling.

“We’re honoured to have worked with local communities and partners to play our part in making CDS VIC the most accessible scheme in Australia.”

The community can find their nearest refund point, and access their electronic refunds, through the CDS Vic North app for iOS or Android.

“Victorians have gone gangbusters for our Container Deposit Scheme – saving one billion containers from landfill, putting $100 million back in their pockets and making it the number one scheme in the country,” Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos said.

“There are lots of things to celebrate on the one year of this scheme that gives back to the community, creates local jobs, teaches kids about recycling and safeguards our environment.”

To find out more about Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme visit www.cdsvic. org.au

As of Wednesday 30 October 72,624 ballots had been returned, equating to 80.73 per cent of the votes required. (208517)

Grant funds welcomed

Edible Warburton has received a Yarra Valley Water Community Grant for the purchase and installation of rainwater tanks that will keep the garden flourishing for years to come.

The edible garden, in the main street of Warburton, was created by locals to showcase sustainable ways of building raised garden beds and growing food. Its produce is shared with anyone who visits or works in the garden, with weekly working bees held to keep it in top shape.

The garden also hosts regular school holiday education programs for primary students, quarterly skill-building workshops and a ‘Share Shelf’ where people can share their excess produce with the community.

Tarnya Harper from Edible Warburton said the garden had never had a permanent water supply, with garden volunteers typically having to cart water in cans from a generous neighbouring business.

“We are so grateful to Yarra Valley Water for awarding us this grant. It has assured the future of Edible Warburton,” she said.

“This funding will allow us to install rainwater tanks that will give us much greater certainty of sufficient water supply and help us to increase our growing capacity.

“It will also allow us to deliver more community education workshops for young and old, sharing knowledge

about sustainable gardening and the importance of fresh produce.”

Edible Warburton is among 14 community organisations and projects that have been awarded a 2024 Yarra Valley Water Community Grant.

Yarra Valley Water’s General Manager of Strategy and Community Tiffany White said the garden is providing really important access to fresh food and bringing the community together.

“It’s great to see people engaged with gardening through shared experiences and educational workshops,” she said.

“By ensuring access to rainwater through this grant, we’re not only supporting the Warburton community, but also helping to preserve our precious drinking water.

“We’re proud to support initiatives like Edible Warburton that create a lasting impact.”

Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 October

Kids

The Edible Warburton garden will be boosted by new rainwater tanks thanks to Yarra Valley Water. (Supplied)

NEWS Indigenous rangers boost

By Dongyun Kwon

A Healesville-based First Nations corporation welcomed two federal politicians who had promising news for First Nations communities on Thursday 31 October.

Federal Indigenous Australians minister senator Malarndirri McCarthy and federal Victoria senator Jana Stewart announced more than 1000 new Indigenous ranger jobs will be created across the country, with the Federal Government investing $355 million over four years to expand the Indigenous Rangers Program, at the property of Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation (WWCHAC), which was named one of the recipients of this funding.

Through this investment, First Nations women will make up the vast majority of the new fulltime, part-time and casual roles, with up to 770 Indigenous ranger positions.

Yanyuwa woman senator McCarthy said expanding the Indigenous Rangers Program will provide more opportunities for First Nations people to share their knowledge and benefit from the social and economic outcomes that come from meaningful employment.

“This expansion delivers on the government’s commitment to increase the footprint of the Indigenous Rangers Program and bolster activity in existing locations,” she said.

“I’m particularly pleased to see so many new opportunities for women Indigenous rangers who play a unique role in caring for Country.

“I acknowledge the work of all rangers and the care and strength they demonstrate in looking after Country.”

For more than 65,000 years, First Nations people have been caretakers of Australia’s land, rivers, seas, flora and fauna.

Indigenous rangers continue this legacy today, managing Country according to Traditional Owners’ objectives combined with modern conservation training.

They use traditional knowledge and cultural practices, and western science, to manage land, river and sea Country and deliver environmental, cultural, social and economic development outcomes for First Nations communities.

Wurundjeri elder Uncle Bill Nicholson Jnr welcomed the visitors and led the smoking ceremony.

Mr Nicholson said the health of the environment is a key part of Wurundjeri culture.

“It’s probably the underlying heart of what Wurundjeri culture is all about because children were brought up here for generations and two key things they were taught was the health of the land related to their health and the actions that you incorporate within the land, how that will benefit future generations and also playing your role in society with the knowledge that was taught by your extended family,” he said.

“Everyone takes their responsibility, and it works. The tribal system worked like a team.”

After the smoking ceremony, the two visitors toured the on-site Indigenous plant nursery, the depot and the adjoining property where the Narrap Rangers undertake land management activities for the area.

Narrap Rangers from WWCHAC undertake a range of natural resource management activities

on Country at the request of clients, including the maintenance of firebreaks in accordance with local council by-laws.

Narrap Ranger crew leader Damien Nicholson, who is Uncle Bill Nicholson Jnr’s son, said there has been a lot of progress since he started working for the Narrap team eight years ago.

“What we mainly do is conservation land management, which is pretty much taking care of the invasive weed species,” he said.

“We’ll go out and spray, hand weed or even put the fire back on Country to get rid of all that stuff and bring back all the good stuff like the native grasses and plants.

“We do a lot of different things from fencing and burning to surveys to help this Country get back the way it was.”

115 projects will receive funding including

35 in Queensland, 23 in Western Australia, 21 in New South Wales, 12 in Northern Territory, 11 in South Australia, nine in Victoria and four in Tasmania.

This marks the first time in more than a decade that new ranger groups have been able to apply to join the Commonwealth Indigenous Rangers Program.

This expansion round also includes grants of up to $50,000 per year over four years to strengthen ranger groups and support their long-term sustainability.

The Albanese Government is investing a total of $1.3 billion to 2028 in the Indigenous Rangers Program with aims to double the number of Indigenous rangers by the end of the decade.

Mutthi Mutthi and Wamba Wamba woman senator Jana Stewart said First Nations people

have been custodians of Australia’s land and waters for tens of thousands of years.

“Expanding the Indigenous Rangers Program honours this legacy and provides sustainable and meaningful employment opportunities for mob,” she said.

“Traditional Owner groups in Victoria are strong and mighty. I am thrilled to see over $23.6 million invested in Victoria, and eight groups in the state receive Indigenous Ranger Program funding for the very first time.

“The economic and social contribution of Traditional Owner groups like Gunaikurnai, Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung Clans cannot be understated. I am so pleased to see the significance of their work recognised in this way.”

Federal Indigenous Australians minister senator Malarndirri McCarthy and federal Victoria senator Jana Stewart announcing the new investment. (Dongyun Kwon: 441204)

Narrap Rangers putting up a fence around native vegetation to protect it from wild animals. (441204)

Plant nursery tour. (441204)

WWCHAC operations coordinator Mark Gardiner showing two visitors around the depot. (441204)

Smoking ceremony. (441204)

From alps to ocean by air

By Mikayla van Loon

Two women, one plane and over 1500 kilometres of distance to travel between dawn and dusk is a challenge that awaits two female pilots from the Yarra Valley.

Delia Jones and Theresa MacDonald are planning to travel the length of the Murray River, from the alps to the ocean, roughly between the hours of 5am and 8.30pm as part of the International Dawn to Dusk Competition.

Setting off from Lilydale Airport on 28 November, Delia and Theresa will spend a night in Benalla, with the intention of travelling to the source of the Murray at Indi Springs to begin their official flight path on 29 November.

“Then we’ll follow it on its course all the way down to Goolwa in South Australia,” Theresa said.

The in-flight time is expected to take over eight hours, with the pilots planning to make eight stops throughout the trip to refuel and meet with other female pilots from across the two states.

“When we get to Goolwa there’s Lake Alexandrina, if we’ve still got time before landing we’ll do a lap of the lake and a group of South Australian women pilots are meeting us there and taking us to dinner. That’s the plan at least,” Theresa said.

“I’m also trying to get a formation endorsement, which allows you to fly close to other planes. If I get that, then we’ve got a couple of fellas who are going to see us off from Lilydale, and there’s a lady up at Yarrawonga who’s going to do a little formation with us from Yarrawonga to Tocumwal.”

Part of the competition requires documentation of the process and journey, so Delia has acquired two cameras, one that will be attached to the outside of the plane, while the other will be inside the cabin.

While for the first section of the flight over the high country, the plane will have to stay quite high, after that they can descend closer to ground, hopefully getting to fully experience the Austra-

lian landscape, from outback to greenery and eventually ocean.

Delia has also been tasked with exploring the history of the Murray River, another requirement of the competition submission.

“So from the original uses by the Aboriginals through to the early settlements, and the explorers that went through there, like Burke and Wills,” she said.

“Up to the present day, with the Murray Darling plan and usage, agriculture and what they’re using up here, and requirements for water because all the towns, of course, rely on the Murray for water.

“Then when horse and cart changed, and it was vehicles, how the structure of the towns changed. When they used to have railways into the towns, then they stopped that, then it was cars, and they would just bypass all the towns getting to Sydney.”

This will be Theresa’s second flight challenge

in the Dawn to Dusk competition, having completed the ‘Australia in a day’ flight with three other pilots in 2022 but for Delia, it has always been a dream.

“Back in 2009 I was absolutely enthralled by a woman pilot giving a talk at one of the conferences, Marion McCall, about her attempts at the Dawn to Dusk,” Delia said.

“It’s been on my bucket list ever since.”

Instantly suggesting the Murray River idea as soon as Theresa agreed to take on another flight challenge, the pair have been planning and researching since February.

It will be Delia who gets the honours of doing the last leg and lap of Lake Alexandrina before touching down in Goolwa, hopefully having completed the challenge successfully.

Delia and Theresa met around 20 years ago as they both embarked on their pilot training in a small group of other women at Lilydale.

“I think there were six or seven women pilots

then, not many at all. Now there’s loads of them there. But because there weren’t many women we gravitated towards each other,” Theresa said.

Among the small group were Marjy and Helen who both lost their battles with cancer, “that’s why we’re doing this”.

“Raising [money] in their memory” for Counterpart, a cancer support group where women support women, felt only right for Delia and Theresa.

“The charity that we’re raising money for, a lot of people haven’t heard of, it doesn’t give medical advice but it gives peer support to women who come through cancer,” Theresa said.

Aiming to raise $5000 for the charity, the pair have already reached a total of $3,630 with about four weeks until they set off on their challenge.

• To support their fundraiser, go to gofundme. com/f/alps-to-ocean-to-support-women-living-with-cancer

• More about Counterpart and its services, can be found by going to counterpart.org.au

NOWLISTEN!WE’RESTEPPIN’OUT

At The Memo in Healesville on Sunday 17 November at 4pm - Star Mail are offering one lucky reader a double pass to the show! From Daddy Cool to Mondo Rock and as a solo artist, no less than 26 ARIA Top 40 hits to his credit as a singer, songwriter and producer, Ross Wilson is one of Australia’s most awarded, respected, and well-known artists!

Yarra Valley pilots Delia Jones and Theresa MacDonald will set off from Lilydale Airport on 28 November to embark on the Alps to Ocean challenge. (Mikayla van Loon: 441281)

Theresa MacDonald and Delia Jones have known each other for around 20 years, since they first started learning to fly. (441281)

Rotarians’ answer the call

By Callum Ludwig

A local Rotarian is helping drive an organisationwide initiative to provide urgent medical care to children in need.

The Rotary Club of Wandin’s Gavan McIntyre also holds the position of ROMAC (Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children) District Chair of District 9815, ably supported by his wife Di, helping coordinate for children in neighbouring countries in Oceania to come to Melbourne for crucial medical procedures.

Mr McIntyre said he and the Rotary Club of Wandin have been involved in ROMAC for about 10 years.

“The club got involved in hosting a boy from Vanuatu 10 years ago, he had broken his leg when he was about five years old and came out here when he was about 13 or 14 to have his leg repaired because it had basically grown at right angles because it had never been set properly,” he said.

“Rotary found him in his village, he couldn’t walk, so we brought him out here, Wandin hosted him for a couple of months, he and his mum lived here and he had his operations, all done at Epworth in Richmond,”

“He went home a happy and healthy teenager, he could run around and kick a football all before he even went back home.”

Started over 35 years ago, ROMAC has provided life-altering surgeries for over 500 children in more than 20 countries, entirely from the efforts and fundraising of volunteers in Rotary.

Mr McIntyre said a lot of these kids just don’t have the opportunity to have their conditions fixed and become a burden to their family and village forever.

“It can take 12 months to get the paperwork, and we have lost kids. You know, we’ve had the kids die before we can work together to bring them to the country which really sad but that’s just the way it is.”

To help prevent those circumstances, as well as Rotarians in Australia and New Zealand ready to support children and their families upon arrival, ROMAC has people in the nations it serves who ‘help with passport and visa applications, finding and communicating with our potential patients, organising medical checks and ensuring they are on time to board their plane.’

Mr McIntyre said you don’t have to be a part of a Rotary Club to support ROMAC.

I don’t need to be part of the Rotary Club, they can donate to Ramy and I think in the Committee “You can donate to Rotary or straight to ROMAC on the website, all donations are tax-deductible and all the money is used, there’s nobody getting paid anywhere in ROMAC and the surgeons are really good too, they do it pro bono most of the time,” he said.

“It’s mainly the hospitals we’ve got to pay for, the use of operating theatres where some of these operations might go for five or six hours and we’ve got to pay for all the dressings and all the stuff they use, and sometimes we have to pay for half a dozen scans before they work out what they are going to do,”

“But another big problem with these kids and parents from these countries, a lot of them don’t have birth certificates, they don’t have any pa-

“One of our most recent patients had a club foot, the kid couldn’t walk but he came here and has gone home walking normally, which is heartwarming,” he said

perwork, so when it comes to wanting to leave a country, they need to get a passport, a visa and it can take a hell of a long time because a lot of them live remotely and have got no way of getting into the main towns to do the paperwork, they don’t know how to do it,”

“We can volunteer to take these kids on and we’ve done it, you take them into the Children’s Hospital and it might be for scans three or four days in a row, then you take them in for their operation and they might be in for a few days or a few weeks depending on what they’re getting done and it’s a commitment, but it’s a pretty rewarding commitment.”

To find out more, read patient stories or donate, visit: romac.org.au.

Pigeons fly high for prostate cancer awareness

By Mikayla van Loon

Described “as my Men’s Shed”, the Croydon Homing Pigeon Club is more than just a place for people to race birds but is an outlet for social and mental support.

Supporting the community both within the club and outside of it has become a major focus, that’s why on Sunday 3 November members from Croydon and beyond hosted a fundraiser for the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

Club member and event organiser Peter Farrell said with so many men impacted by prostate cancer and being a primarily male club, it seemed a fitting choice.

“We have some special races during the year, including one from Tasmania where the proceeds go to Camp Quality,” he said.

“This is the first time we’re running this one from Lakes Entrance, and we decided that we do it for prostate cancer research.”

As a prostate cancer survivor himself, the fundraising event also holds significance for Mr Farrell, not only for funds but for awareness too.

“We also have a speaker coming from [the Prostate Cancer Foundation] organisation to give us about a 15 minute talk on prostate cancer and the research that they’re doing so it gives us a bit of an indication of what they would do with the proceeds from our fundraiser,” he said.

With the actual race of the birds happening on Tuesday 5 November, beginning at Lakes Entrance, Mr Farrell said Sunday night’s event consisted of what they call “basketing the birds”, ready for them to travel down to the seaside town on Monday.

Mr Farrell said as part of the fundraising there would be “food and drinks, and we’ll run at Calcutta, we’ll run a Melbourne Cup sweep as well. We’re going to auction off some birds as well. So some of the members have donated some birds.”

Major sponsors like Bendigo Bank and another dozen or so sponsors have also jumped on board to get the fundraising efforts off the ground.

And with members from nearby clubs, who form the Greater Melbourne Pigeon Federation, who came in support, Mr Farrell said there was around 40 members and close to $4000 raised making “the fundraiser a huge success”.

“It actually escalated bigger than what I thought,” he said.

Then there’s the racing element, with the birds set to take flight on Tuesday morning and landing back home around lunch time.

“They’re all released together at eight or nine o’clock in the morning, and then they find their way home, and it’s all done on velocity to where you live,” Mr Farrell said.

“So I’m out in Healesville, so I’m classed as a short flyer, because the birds have less to travel from the release point to my loft compared to the guys way down at Dandenong or Mornington Peninsula.”

Each bird is fitted with an identification ring at just a year old and then when it’s time to race, a chip that tracks their flight and time is added.

“What we have here at home is, when they land on the loft, there’s a scanner that will scan that chip and record it on the clock.

“It’s all electronic nowadays, so we don’t have to be here when the birds get home. The old days, they used to have a rubber ring on them, and you had to pull the rubber ring off physically and put it in a clock and then do it that way.

“Then we take the clock back into the club, it gets put into the main system, and it automatically calculates the velocity and who’s won and who hasn’t.”

Mr Farrell said this year for Croydon, it has been an “outstanding” and successful year with a number of members racing some great birds, placing in the higher results each week throughout the July to November season.

In terms of the sport itself, Mr Farrell said it’s “a growing sport where, probably 10 years ago, it was a dying sport” with lots of new members joining for next year.

“I used to race when I was a kid, and then I’ve only just been back in it for two years.

“Life gets busy, you don’t have the time and then now at retirement age you get the time, and most of the guys of the club are the same.

“They might not like playing bowls or going to the Men’s Shed or whatever and they may have had an interest in pigeon racing when they were younger and might just say, ‘Oh, look, I wouldn’t mind going down and having a look’.”

Mr Farrell said there are a number of younger members also joining the club who have “been racing since they were kids and kept it going”.

“If you’re living in suburbia, there’s always somebody within a couple of kilometres if you want to know something, you can go around to see them, or they’ll come around and help you out.”

Trying to keep membership fees down as much as possible, Mr Farrell said the club wants to make the sport as accessible as possible for people, while having a focus on giving back.

Croydon Homing Pigeon Club is located at Hughes Reserve, 435 Maroondah Highway Croydon.

Micky Doric was a multiple purchaser in the bird auction. (Supplied)

Tony Morrisey from Prostate Cancer Foundation giving the members a talk on detection and treatment of prostate cancer.

Club secretary and auctioneer Tony McPherson in full flight talking birds.

New ROMAC patient Armenia with her family, arriving from Timor Leste on Tuesday 29 October. (Supplied)

Shelli’s pride showcased

By Dongyun Kwon

A Yarra Valley resident was surprised at the Pride ofWorkmanshipAwardNightonThursday10October.

Shelli Johanson, who has lived in the Valley for over 30 years, was recognised for her consistent attitude on work as well as her love for the Valley through the Healesville Rotary Club’s Pride of Workmanship Award.

Ms Johanson is a customer relations officer at Bendigo Community Bank Healesville and was nominated by the bank manager Keeley Mahoney.

“Keeley nominated me for the award but didn’t tell me,” she said.

“I had no idea until the Rotary Club came and told me.”

Ms Johanson began her banking career with the State Bank of Victoria Warburton branch in 1988.

She was with them through the take-over by the Commonwealth Bank in 1990 and left the bank in 2000.

“I felt like it was time for change, so I left banking,” the award recipient said.

“After I left banking, I worked for different companies, working in bookkeeping and administration until 2014 and came back to banking.

“I’ve worked for Bendigo Bank Healesville Branch since then because it’s local which suited my family life.”

As a customer relations officer, she deals with customer-focused transactions like opening new accounts and account maintenance except for lending.

“I enjoy working with the customers very much,” Ms Johanson said.

Her love for the Valley has been indicated through all the different activities that she has participated in for the local community groups.  She is on the committee of many local com-

munity organizations including Healesville RSL, Healesville Netball Club and Healesville High School.

Ms Johanson said she is currently the treasurer of Healesville RSL.

“I was asked to join the RSL and believe in what they do for the welfare of servicemen. I’ve got involved in Healesville Netball Club because my daughter plays netball and I’m on the school council of Healesville High School because my daughter goes to that school,” she said.

“I’m on the Badger Creek Old School committee as well, which is the little building used as a public hall now.

“My husband and I run a small social group, BlackSpur4WDClub,andwedoalotofcamping, caravaning and driving in the bush.”

Award recipient Shelli Johanson (right)with Healesville Rotary Club president Sally Piper. (Supplied)

Moora Moora celebrates

By Dongyun Kwon

Following a 50th anniversary open day in April, Moora Moora Co-Operative Community hosted one more event to celebrate the significant milestone of the 50th anniversary.

Moora Moora 50th birthday party was held over the weekend from Friday 1 November to Sunday 3 November.

Moora Moora Co-Operative Community is an intentional community established in 1974 on top of Mount Toolebewong near Healesville and is now home for around 45 residents who live sustainably in the 30 households and six clusters, all surrounded by forest owned by the cooperative.

Moora Moora co-founder Peter Cock said the community was set up with the purpose of living with nature and each other along with learning in the process.

“I did my PhD on the topic to make sure the place had a chance of surviving, so I looked at 50 different communities and saw what worked and what didn’t work,” he said.

“My motivations were involved in the anti war movement and I was sick of protesting to ask the government to do stuff, so I was thinking about what I could do, what contribution I could make for what I was concerned about, the isolated and increasing instability of the nuclear family, and our alienation from nature.

“We used to live in communities, tribes and extended families and I wanted to try and work towards trying to intentionally create that sort of a community for the future and for my kids.”

About 100 former and current residents turned up to celebrate the history of the community together.

Rebecca Urie, who has lived in the community for about eight years, was one of the event organisers for the special birthday party.

She said the party was full with music, food, story telling and tour as well as reminiscing of the last 50 years and contemplation for the next

50 years.

“On Friday night, the event started with a welcoming ceremony and the lasagna dinner. We shared the stories about early days or things that have happened more recently, around the bonfire,” Ms Urie said.

“On Saturday, we walked and toured the clusters for people who might not have been here for a while, giving them a chance to walk around again to see what’s the same and what’s new.

“Another really special thing was watching a documentary. One of our current members, who is a documentary filmmaker, put together a doc-

umentary about the early days of Moora Moora and we watched it together.”

There were lots of other activities including a T ball match, which is a Moora Moora’s birthday party tradition, a workshop to look back at the history of the Moora Moora and discuss the plan for keeping the community for the next decades.

Former Moora Moora member Dale Howard, who lived in the community between 1997 and 2011, came from Port Macquarie, New South Wales to attend the 50th birthday party.

After he left Moora Moora, he lived in Heales-

ville and then moved to Port Macquarie three years ago.

Mr Howard said he felt a “warm feeling” coming back to Moora Moora.

“It was a nice place to live. It was a wonderful social experience living close to other people that have really close relationships. It was hard to leave,” he said.

“I’ve got good friends here and I love the environment, the views, forest and the peacefulness of it.

“I’ve got so many good memories and I love walking around, remembering places on the property.”

Mark Gunther is originally from the USA, who has Australian citizenship now.

He moved to the Moora Moora in 1976 and still lives there.

Mr Gunther said he liked the idea of a community owned property where people share responsibility, work and friendships.

“I’ve always loved the bush and the outdoors. I was looking for a place to build a house,” he said.

“We had looked down in Tasmania and decided that we wanted to stay in Victoria and [Moora Moora] was a good option because it wasn’t extremely far away from Melbourne.”

Mr Gunther and his wife built their house from scratch in the Moora Moora Community with second hand materials.

“I didn’t hire a builder to build it. I designed it and I built it,” he said.

“My wife and other members of the community helped me build the house.

“It’s a fantastic place to bring children up. I had two daughters who grew up as adventuresome, energetic and physical people because they grew up in this kind of environment.”

Mr Gunther’s oldest daughter is currently a manager of the Melbourne High School Outdoor Education Centre and teaches outdoor activities like canoeing and mountain biking.

Friends of the Leadbeater’s Possum mark 20 years

By Callum Ludwig

The Friends of the Leadbeater’s Possum (FOLP) group recently celebrated a significant milestone.

2024 marks 20 years since FOLP was founded and members came together to reflect on their achievements over the last two decades in supporting the plight of one of the state’s faunal emblems.

FOLP President Steve Meacher said it is very gratifying to have reached such a milestone in the group’s history, especially as several members joined in those very early days and have now been in the group for twenty years.

“In 2003 Leadbeater’s Possum, though the state’s faunal emblem since 1971, was almost forgotten, now it is known to most Victorians and loved by many and both state and federal politicians have found it is not to be ignored,” he said.

“Students are learning about the possum and its existential challenges, artists and authors are inspired to feature the species in paintings, sculptures, jewellery and books, our federal court case succeeded in showing that logging operations were in breach of Victorian legislation and played a significant role in the government’s decision to end the illegal practice from the beginning of this year, protecting much of the possum’s range in the Ash forests of the Central Highlands,”

“This year has also been special as it’s the first year without logging in public native forests where the Leadbeater’s Possum lives.”

Meeting for the first time on Threatened Species Day on 7 September 2004, things were to get worse before they got better, with the 2006 death of the last Leadbeater’s Possum in captivity at the time at Healesville Sanctuary sparking a flurry of activity from FOLP.

Mr Meacher said he thinks it’s fair to say the group has had a major impact in protecting possum habitat, including through the federal court case.

“We played a role in the uplisting of the species to Critically endangered in 2015 and have also been persistent in advocating for an updat-

ed National Recovery Plan, which was promised by mid-2016 but was released by Minister Tanya Plibersek at Healesville Sanctuary in March this year,” he said.

“Although logging in public forests has stopped, logging on private land is still a challenge as is the destruction of critical habitat trees under the guise of management of strategic fuel breaks, there is little, if any, scientific support for this latter practice and it may even increase risk,”

“For more than ten years we have been supporting the creation of a new national park in the Central Highlands that would encompass and protect the entire range of Leadbeater’s Possum and we are optimistic that this is now close.”

Mr Meacher referred to the Victorian Environment Assessment Council’s Interim Report, which the Star Mail previously reported on, released in December 2023 which found that ‘a large protected area such as a national park is commensurate with the outstanding natural values of units 1 3 and 4’ and that ‘there are relatively few uses that would conflict with [this]

designation’ and the proposal of a ‘Green Bond’ that would efficiently finance the new park.

Mr Meacher had a number of significant members of the group to recognise for their contributions to FOLP, stating with founders Sera Blair and Pam Miskin, who were also the first two presidents.

“Eric Wilkinson, who rediscovered Leadbeater’s Possum in 1961 when it had been considered almost certainly extinct for 50 years, Eric has been a member of the group since its inception and regularly attends events, including our annual rediscovery picnic at Cambarville where he tells his story,” he said.

“Danya Jacobs, Senior Lawyer at Environmental Justice Australia who led us throughout our court case, scientists whose work over decades has contributed to our knowledge of the possum including Dr Andrew Smith, Professor David Lindenmayer (ANU), Dr Dan Harley (Zoos Victoria) and Professor John Woinarski,”

“Surveyors at Wildlife of the Central Highlands (WOTCH) whose work resulted in the protection of substantial areas of habitat before the cessation of logging and also contributed to the

evidence that led to success in our court case.”

FOLP efforts have ranged from fundraisers to seeding, planting and nestbox projects and from government advocacy to legal victories.

A full timeline can be found in the September 2024 edition of the Victorian National Parks Association’s (VNPA) ParkWatch magazine.

Mr Meacher said although the Leadbeater’s Possum is the focus of their work, the benefits of its protection are much more widely felt.

“If the forest the possum needs to live in is conserved it helps all the other species of plants and animals that share the same habitat, it protects the catchments that provide drinking and irrigation water to Melbourne and Victoria generally,” he said.

“It cleans the air and generates oxygen through the trees’ photosynthesis, which also results in the sequestration of carbon, moderates the local climate and provides marvellous spaces for exploration and recreation which, in turn, supports tourism and local economies.”

Anyone interested in getting involved can visit the Friends of the Leadbeater’s Possum website to sign up.

Friends of the Leadbeater’s Possum members celebrating the group’s 20th anniversary. (Supplied)

A FOLP-themed cake made by Faith from Nature’s Cakes and topper by Asher Billing. (Karena Goldfinch)

L-R: Chelsea McNab and Sandra Cock (members) with Dale Howard (former member) viewing photos of members past and present in the Lodge. (Glen Morris)

Night of frights for locals

Cire Services’ annual Halloween Street Party took over Yarra Junction again on Thursday 31 October, with frights and sweet delights the theme of the night.

Trick-or-treaters started their adventure at the Cire Community Hub in Yarra Junction from 4pm, decked out in costumes, where they checked in to receive their scavenger hunt card and for some, a special show bag if they booked online early. 2000 show bags were available.

Once the scavenger hunt card was collected, trick-or-treaters set out into the town centre of Yarra Junction, visiting local businesses to collect stamps on their card and bundles of lollies to fill their bags and buckets.

The Yarra Centre transformed into a haunted house, Black Snake Productions’ Reptile Experience brought creepy, crawly critters to the day and since cream and food trucks made sure no one went hungry.

Star Mail photographer Stewart Chambers was on the streets to take some spooky snaps.

(L-R) Evan, Lucas and Karen from Warburton. (Stewart Chambers: 440395)

(L-R) Indigo and Adine from Cire. (440395)

(L-R) Saylem, Arkyn, Henley, Danni and Kristian from Woori Yallock. (440395)

(L-R) Phil, Allan and Rick from Ben’s Shed Yarra Junction joining in on the fun. (440395)

(L-R) Piper and Tommy. (440395)

(L-R) Nat and Cal from Yarra Junction. (440395) The streets were packed with trick-or-treaters of all kinds. (440395)

(L-R) Lucy, Jesse and Taz the dog. (440395)

(L-R) Cire staff and students Haylee, Adine, Anna, Jill, Jarrod, Robyn and Indigo. (440395) Roxy (centre) with her kids Aaliyah and Hunter from Yarra Junction. (440395)

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

To laugh or not to laugh?

By Dongyun Kwon

One of the Shakespeare’s plays will be performed in Healesville by a group of young people.

The MISFIT Project (TMP) is a creativity and empowerment organisation founded by young people for young people, which provides an inclusive, safe, creative community for those who have not felt like they have had somewhere to belong.

MISFIT Theatre, a theatre group attached to TMP, has prepared for the production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which is one of Shakespeare’s most famous comedies.

TMP youth mentor and facilitator Alana Michaud, the director of the production, said she is excited to put on a big cast show.

“It’s been a few years since TMP has put on a big cast show because the last few years they put on small radio plays. So this is the first one back for a while,” she said.

This is the second time for Ms Michaud to direct a theatre production.

The director said her focus for the show is creating a fun experience that is enjoyable for both audience and actors.

“These old plays written by Shakespeare, which often you learn in school and you find them boring. But the idea is to learn through this play and the process of putting on the show that there is so much in all of Shakespeare’s writing to work with, and it can be a really fun thing to do,” Ms Michaud said.

“We’ve put a little bit of a twist to this show, and we are going to have a 360 stage so it’s really immersive for the audience, the actors will walk past you as they enter and exit the stage.

“We have a lot of really fun lighting design, and we’re playing on the dream aspect of A Midsummer Night’s Dream with some kind of fun psychedelic lighting.”

MISFIT Theatre is an audition-based group open to diverse age groups.

21 Cast members from all across Melbourne were selected through auditions in June and July.

“At the beginning of the year, I started with my ideas for the show, but it was in June that we put out the call for auditions,” Ms Michaud said.

“From July, every Thursday till now, we have been rehearsing to do this production [in Croydon].

“We have a diverse group of people from different parts of Melbourne. We also have a lot of different experiences in our cast as well. We have some people who have done a lot of performing, and some people who this will be their first ever Shakespeare production.”

The production will be performed three times at The Memo, Healesville on Friday 22 November and on Saturday 23 November.

For more information, please visit the following website at yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Experience/Events/A-Midsummer-Nights-Dream

Quilts for Orphans ‘Fabric Hugs’ coming to Yarra Ranges

By Callum Ludwig

Quilts for Orphans (QFO) are bringing their ‘fabric hugs’ back to the Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead for the start of November.

Opening on Sunday 2 November, the exhibition will be on display from Wednesday to Sunday up until Sunday 10 November.

President and Secretary of QFO Libby Anderson said their goal was to create 50 quilts to display at Mont De Lancey to then gift to people and organisations in need in the Yarra Ranges, and they ended up making 68.

“We had some projects running from August through to now, incorporating what we call Makers Marathons, where we had some days that we’d set aside like our Saturday gathering days and some of the Tuesdays to work on some projects,” she said.

“We used a technique called Quilt As You Go, which was a new challenge for many of us, butwe made some single and some lap quilts through those Makers Marathons and then they were community quilts where everybody was involved making a block and then would be joined together, so it was a real team effort.”

QFO gifted 520 quilts in the 2023/24 finan-

cial year and have gifted 169 so far this year to organisations including Life’s Little Treasurers, the Queen Elizabeth centre, Kirkbrae aged care, Cottage by the Sea, Open Door Community Centre, Change the One and to residents in Ukraine.

Ms Anderson said they will also have their craft sale on alongside the quilt show.

“It’s one of our major fundraisers for 2025 to help cover our costs in being at Hoddles Creek Hall and to buy the wadding that goes in the middle of the quilts and backing fabric and Mont de Lancey is very supportive of what we do,” she said.

“We’ve recently been on the Yarra Valley FM Community Radio, we had a stall a couple of weekends ago at TLC, the Truth and Liberation Church, they ran a fair market a couple of Saturdays ago with crafts and fair trade items.”

Any community groups interested in contacting QFO to access quilts for those in need can email Ms Anderson at quiltsfororphans. org.

The ‘Fabric Hugs for the Yarra Ranges’ Quilt Show and Craft Sale has been supported by the Yarra Ranges Council Small Grants program.

Quilts for Orphans are back at Mont De Lancey. (Supplied)

Quilts will be going to community groups looking after Yarra Ranges residents in need.

Quilts are on display throughout the Mont De Lancey gallery. Quilters have spent the last four months preparing for the exhibition.

Creating ties and resilience

Engagement was at the core of the Millgrove Residents’ Action Group’s recent Community Open Day, both in creating a sense of community and pushing the key message of building local resilience.

The Millgrove Open Day brought an opportunity of connection and time to savour another’s company through the facilitation by MRAG of the event.

In its third year, the Millgrove Open Day has not only grown but developed into its true iteration, aiming to nurture community, and with the addition of expo stalls, to share services that assist and support locals with resilience information.

Due to unique geography, the Upper Yarra Valley has specific vulnerabilities, the area is classified with high fire and storm risks. In these circumstances it is powerful and reassuring to know

community watch out for each other.

The 2024 Open Day was pleased to highlight groups that have the heart of the community at

their interest. Organisations such as Eastern Community Legal Centre, Bushfire resilience, and Resilient Housing, Millwarra Primary School and after-school programs, River Valley op Shop, Wednesday lunches and monthly free community dinners, Land Care and Healesville Environmental Watch, Koha community Cafe handing out free meal vouchers, Benwerren women’s respite information, energy information from CoRE, RedCross Resilience Victoria outreach disasters services, as well as the Wesburn/Millgrove CFA and Upper Yarra SES, in addition to the Upper Yarra Rotary sausage sizzling with their funds supporting local youth.

This wonderful mix of organisations either introduced or reminded attendees how valued and supported each person is – simply being who they

are. It is this value of inclusion that is key to community self-reliance.

This level of services and facilities builds strength when facing challenging circumstances and preparedness to address obstacles when they arise, as well as a sense of pride in your town.

The whole event was made possible by the people who bank with Warburton and Yarra Junction Bendigo Bank. These patrons allow the bank to award community grants to local organisations, which in turn supports community to flourish.

There was so much fun to have, with stage entertainment, giant games, giant bubbles, face painting, an animal petting stall, craft activities, free fruit and treats, families found lots to keep everyone amused. MRAG is always already setting a date for next year.

Keeping the community resilient and connected was the key goal for MRAG’s Community Open Day.

There was plenty of room for fun too during the Millgrove Community Open Day.

MRAG representatives with Casey MP Aaron Violi (centre). (Supplied)

GREYHOUND ADOPTION DAY

Fill the hole in your heart

By Molly Haines

Could you possibly have a greyhound shaped hole in your heart? How would I know, I hear you ask…

Well, it can present in a number of different ways…

An audible aww when you walk past their model-like physique and shiny coats which is usually followed by your heart skipping a beat or two.

After touching the softest of soft ears, you will find yourself with the need to give those velvety ears another pat.

There is also a very high chance that you follow at least one pet greyhound on your Instagram feed.

But on most occasions, it presents as a little voice in your head telling you that life will be better with a greyhound by your side.

Joining you for strolls around town, stopping in for a coffee and puppachino, or a wine and water.

There is only one cure for this greyhound shaped hole in your heart…. To get yourself a greyhound.

In rare cases, you don’t know you have a greyhound shaped hole in your heart until you read an article about having said hole in your heart.

But I have some great news for you! The Greyhound Adoption Program is coming to Healesville on Saturday 16 November for a Greyhound Adoption Day.

The Healesville Greyhound Racing Club will

open its picturesque doors to around 20 greyhounds looking for their perfect match from 11am to 1pm.

Greyhounds make spectacular pets, they are loyal, affectionate, and lazy despite being known for their athleticism. Their energy comes and goes in short spouts known as Zoomies.

Adoption Days aren’t just for adopting a greyhound, they are a great way to learn more about the breed from the people who know them best - GAP staff and Volunteers.

Greyhounds adopted through GAP are fully vaccinated and desexed. The adoption fee is $100.

Join us for a day of unlimited pats, free lunch, barista coffee and sweet treats on Saturday 16 of November at the Healesville Greyhound Racing Club from 11am, it’s just what the doctor ordered. For more information, head to gap.grv.org.au.

Do you have a greyhound-shaped hole in your heart?

A Greyhound Adoption Day is coming to Healesville on Saturday 16 November. (Supplied)

Divided on horse racing

By Maria Millers

Racing is a dangerous and sometimes lethal pursuit, largely for the animal and the grossly underfed human sitting on its back.

With the Spring Racing Carnival in full swing this week horses are the stars.

These magnificent, powerful creatures have captivated people’s imaginations for centuries, from myths and legends they have left a significant mark in various contexts: warfare to literature culture and sport.

So when these animals show up in our dreams, they carry deep symbolic meaning that often represents raw instincts, sexual energy, inner power, or a need for freedom and escape.

In the realm of dreams, they come, Horses with manes like waves of silver moonlight,

Hooves that scatter stardust, tails that sweep the night.

They carry us beyond the bounds of reality, Into worlds unseen, unexplored, unknown.

Mystic Companions by Dan Higgins

The relationship between horses and people is rich, deep, and ancient.

Think Bucephelus Alexander the Great’s beloved steed or Seabiscuit, the American thoroughbred of unimpressive lineage that during the Depression brought hope to millions happy to see an underdog succeeding. And similarly, our own Phar Lap was a source of pride for struggling Australians. Nor to be forgotten is the bravery and loyalty of horses on the front lines providing companionship and strength to soldiers in past wars.

Horses have also played a major role in transport, food production and industry.

Whether pulling the ploughs in the fields or working as pit ponies in mines.

Not that very long ago milk was still delivered

WOORILLA WORDS

in some areas by a horse drawn vehicle.

In The Man from Snowy River, Banjo Paterson illustrates the bond that existed between Australians and their horses, portraying horses as more than just animals; they are loyal partners and trusted companions in a challenging environment.

So he went; they found him later, at the bottom of the hill,

In a clump of trees and scrub, all gaping wide;

And the man from Snowy River never haggled at a hill —

For his horse could climb a mountain that an alpine goat would shirk,

And he counted on his horse, his friend, his only hope and work.”

This Week as the Spring Racing Carnival unfolds reaching its peak with the Melbourne Cup there are mixed feelings abroad.

Victorians are undoubtedly happy to enjoy a holiday, but not all see this event in a positive light.

The increasing commercialization of the event and the expanding international influence has in many minds make it appear as detached from the roots of Australian culture.

But for government and business the Mel-

bourne Cup generates more economic benefit than any other sporting event in Australia.

Still the groundswell of critics is growing Foremost is concern for the welfare of the animals.

Those in the industry will argue that race horses are the most pampered animals cared for by teams of, grooms, farriers, nutritionists, veterinarians, behaviourists and physiotherapists to make sure they are in peak health and condition.

Many like Australian philosopher and animal rights advocate Peter Singer argue that horse racing is ethically unjustifiable as horses are often subjected to significant injury and suffering primarily for human entertainment and profit.

There is the selective breeding and discarding of those that early show a lack of racing potential.

And then there’s the practice of overtraining young horses often leading to injuries making them no longer profitable for racing.

This raises disturbing questions as to what happens to them?

Some are ’rehomed’ with families, farms or charities but the ugly fact remains that slaughter of thoroughbreds is legal in Australia and that is the fate of many.

For many the use of the whip is unacceptable.

There are now restrictions on the use of the whip but it still allows the jockey to inflict pain when the guidelines only stipulate that the whip be used in a way that is humane and to avoid sensitive parts.

And horse injuries and deaths still occur.

It’s worthwhile to remind those who justify extreme training and racing by believing that horses like their human counterparts are elite athletes and therefore happy to undergo rigours of training etc.

The difference is that the human athlete made a choice to become one, whereas the horse was not given that choice.

The horse is, like man, the most beautiful and most miserable of creatures, only, in the case of

man, it is vice or property that makes him ugly. He is responsible for his own decadence, while the horse is only a slave. Rosa Bonheur, The Horse

The economic boost of the Cup spans numerous sectors, including retail, hospitality, and tourism.

It seems more and more that this is an event about corporate branding with so called celebrities, influencers and affluent socialites promoting outfits ranging from the extreme to the bizarre and dining and wining in magnificent marquees while the general public is confined to lawn areas and General Admission Stands.

Often the traditional elegance of the past has given away to unfortunate fashion choices, excessive drinking and questionable behaviours.

Overall, while the Melbourne Cup is a celebrated event bringing people together, the social divisions are evident in the way attendees engage with the event, their attire, and the areas allocated.

While many participants and businesses involved in the Melbourne Cup profit, the racing clubs, sponsors, and betting agencies often see the most significant financial gains overall.

Overall, while the Cup might not consistently lead to the same high-frequency losses that everyday gambling venues do, it still represents a substantial risk for those susceptible to gambling harm, especially given the heightened media coverage and huge focus on the race.

For those who look forward to the Cup as their one flutter for the year, I wish you all the best of luck.

But be mindful that behind the glitter and glam there is the reality and spare a thought for the horses.

The Woorilla Poetry Prize Event will be held at 2pm on 17 November at the Hills Hub. Delightful afternoon of performances, music and great food.

Yarra Ranges Christmas Window competition

Businesses across the Yarra Ranges are being urged to get into the Christmas spirit by decorating their storefronts, as part of Council’s annual Christmas Window Competition.

The competition, which is now open for entries, aims to find the most festive store window via public vote between the end of October and mid-December.

Entries for businesses open 28 October, while public voting will open on 11 November.

Yarra Ranges Council Director of Communities, Leanne Hurst, encourages businesses to sign up and get decorating.

“We know a lot of businesses in the Yarra Ranges will already have plans to make their shopfronts festive this year. Our annual competition is a great way to have some fun, encourage

COMMUNITY DIARY

Diwali Festival of Light in Healesville

Mark your calendars for the Diwali Festival of Light on Sunday 10 November from 3pm to 5pm at The Memo Healesville.

The event is hosted by the Rotary Club of Healesville.

Enjoy cultural performances, delicious Indian cuisine, and activities for all ages

For more information, please visit the following website yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Experience/ Events/DIWALI-Festival-of-Light or call 1300 368 333.

ADRA Redwood Community Centre seeking second-hand toys

The ADRDA Redwood Community Care Centre is seeking second-hand o new toys to be donated for Brushy’s Playspace at the centre.

Items they are looking for are a wooden toy

visitation and get into the spirit of Christmas together,” she said.

“Our region gets a significant amount of visitation over the warmer months, particularly around Christmas and New Year, and this competition encourages visitors to check out the shops, enjoy the sights and make the most of daylight savings to do some late-night shopping.”

To take part, simply visit shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.auor scan the QR codes on the posters we’ll be placing around the region, enter the competition with a photo of your business windows, and encourage visitors to place their vote!

“We’ve had a really tremendous number of businesses get involved in our competition for the last two years and I’m looking forward to

seeing the entrants and winners this year.”

Last year’s winners were Mooroolbark’s Shapers Hair and Beauty, Belgrave’s Fraulein’s Flowers, Woori Yallock’s We Got the Scoop and Healesville Jeweller.

The winning entrants will receive chocolates and champagne, with community members voting going into the draw to win one of four $150 vouchers to spend locally.

Voting is open from 28 October until 12 December. Community members can only vote once during the competition.

For more information, terms and conditions, and to sign up, visit shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov. au/yarra-ranges-christmas-window-competition-2024

someone is at the centre to accept them.

Nominations closing soon for Ian De La Rue Youth Initiative Award

Named in honour of Ian De La Rue OAM, the first Chairman of the Warburton Bendigo Community Bank, nominations are open to recognise the community contributions of young people aged between 12 and 25.

Nominations can be from your workplace, club, community group or school and they may receive the $1000 award.

sage sizzle and wood raffle in the Woolworths car park at Seville.

Sausages in bread were given away to the passing shoppers as well as free tickets (three for free) to a raffle for a trailer load of firewood. Shoppers generously gave donations to the club which totalled close to $500. The club would like to thank Seville butchers for supplying the sausages at half price and Seville Woolworths for donating bread, onions and sauces.

Congratulations to Barbara and her son Ewen from Mount Evelyn on winning the wood raffle.

Delays on Yarra Valley Trail

clothesline, toy iron and ironing board, dress ups and a magnetic board and magnetic items for it (if you can help mount it on the wall, it would be appreciated).

If you have other items you would like to donate that aren’t listed, feel free to email katebarratt@ adra.org.au or message the ADRA Redwood Community Centre on social media with a picture.

Please contact the ADRA Redwood Centre at 5966 2320 before donating items so they can make sure

Nominations close midnight Tuesday 5 November.

Winners Announced at the UYCE Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 20 November.

For more details and to nominate online, visit: upperyarra.net.au/youth/ian-de-la-rue-youthinitiative-award/ Wandin Rotary fundraiser

The Rotary Club of Wandin recently held a sau-

There will be some brief delays over the next week on the Yarra Valley Trail between Lilydale and Coldstream.

Yarra Valley Water is surfacing a private road, which crosses the trail to connect with the Lilydale Food Waste to Energy facility.

There will be short and temporary closures requiring riders to wait up to 10 minutes while construction vehicles cross the trail.

The delays will occur on Wednesday 6 November between 7am and 5pm.

Get in the festive spirit by entering or voting for your favourite Christmas window. (File)

ROAD TO FOOD DISCOVERY

Showcasing our produce

Warburton Valley CEDA is set to host a one-day celebration of local food, wine and community spirit, at the brand new Road to Food Discovery Festival, on Saturday 9 November. Held at CherryHill Orchards’ stunning Coldstream Orchard, the event will showcase the best of Yarra Valley, not only highlighting the region’s finest produce, but it also officially kicks off the much-anticipated cherry-picking season, inviting visitors to immerse into the orchard experience.

This event brings together the Yarra Valley’s best growers and producers, including Rayner’s Orchard, Millgrove Dairy, Silva Coffee, and Yarra Valley Gourmet Foods. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to meet these passionate local producers and support their businesses, helping to sustain the region’s vibrant local economy.

The Road to Food Discovery Festival will offer a family-friendly, fun-filled atmosphere — from

gourmet food, award winning wines, and engaging activities. It promises a culinary adventure for all, where guests can engage with local growers and producers, sampling a wide variety of the region’s finest products.

Expect a day filled with family friendly activities such as a scone-making masterclass by Mary Eats Cake; a regional produce cooking demonstration by Balgownie Estate; and a jam-making masterclass from Rayner’s Orchard.

Visitors can also enjoy a wine and chocolate pairing experience with Balgownie Wines and Cuvee Chocolate, while live music by Glen Wee creates a lively atmosphere throughout the day.

Alongside entertainment and demonstrations, visitors can explore market stalls brimming with fresh, locally-sourced produce, unique handmade creations, and specialty products from regional artisans.

For a true taste of CherryHill Orchards, don’t miss the renowned cherry ice cream and refreshing beverages, all made from CherryHill’s cherries, available at the orchard’s retail store.

With free entry for children and a $5 ticket for adults, which includes a $5 voucher redeemable on-site, the Road to Food Discovery Festival offers an affordable and fun-filled day for the whole family. This event promises an unforgettable experience of local food, wine, live entertainment, all set against the backdrop of the picturesque Yarra Valley.

To kick off the cherry season, CherryHill Orchards will be selling fresh, premium boxed cherries from their retail store. Cherry-picking tickets will also be available for purchase on-site, subject to availability and season supply.

Be sure to secure tickets early for a chance to pick some of the first cherries of the season.

Find a range of products from Yarra Valley Gourmet Foods.

Enjoy the backdrop of the Yarra Valley as you enjoy the finest produce from the region. (Supplied)

Taste a selection of Mill Grove Dairy’s cheeses.

Memories of a scoutmaster

Ronald Victor Alfred Hester, born in Footscray in 1910, remembered Scout camps at Mt Evelyn.

When he was about 11 (1921), Ron travelled with first Yarraville Scouts by train to Lilydale, then they walked to the Recreation Reserve by following Olinda Creek and the old David Mitchell tram track.

At this time there was no football oval, just bush at the Reserve.

The Scouts used to go up to the Baker’s alongside the Police Station. He used to bake his own bread and we used to go there to get our bread … in our Scout caps … We spent a lot of time up there, watching him bake the bread and poking a bit of wood into the oven … it was beautiful bread too.

CARTOON

Looking back

Janice Newton

Mount Evelyn History Group editor

Ron discovered a secret fishing spot.

One of my camps up here at Mt Evelyn … I was going for a badge, Bushman’s badge or something.

I had to stay out overnight and I had to make my own camp, on my own, and I had to scrounge for myself, what I could.

I didn’t have very much to eat so I wandered off … just behind where the first Melbourne water supply was … I walked up through the bush [and found a] big puddle of clear water.

Of course I had a big fishing line in my pocket, cooked a nice couple of fish, they were blackfish … I lived in great style.

Next morning, I packed up and worked my way back to camp. Ron began work at the railways and did an engineering course.

During World War II he joined the RAAF.

He moved permanently to Mt Evelyn in 1943,

still working at the Camberwell RAAF base until 1945, when war injuries forced him to resign. In about June 1948 Ron revived first Mt Evelyn Scouts, which had operated from around 1928 to 1932. He purchased the land for the Scout Hall for £50. He also joined the Fire Brigade.

All we had were a few beaters, they’re like a hessian sort of thing or canvas on the end of a pole … a few rakes, shovels and knapsacks … you’d fill them up with water and carry them on your back … with a pump on them to pump water to put the fires out.

In September 1991, four months before he died on 10 January 1992, Ron recorded his memories for the Lilydale Museum’s oral history project.

What’s wrong with obvious?

Here

Starring Tom Hanks, Robin Wright and Paul Bettany

Rated M 4.25/5

Based on the graphic novel by Richard McGuire, Here is an affecting, visually-ambitious drama with some worrying technology behind it.

Here is a touching tapestry of love, worry, compromise and turbulent family life, and reunites Tom Hanks and Robin Wright for the first time since Forrest Gump.

Shot with one unmoving camera angle, Here has a mosaic structure not unlike Cloud Atlas, jumping across time to portray several families living in this single room or plot of land, with comic panel-like inserts to juxtapose different eras and draw fun or poignant parallels.

The primary focus is Richard (Hanks) and Margaret’s (Wright) family: Richard is a dedicated husband and father with an overcautious nature; Margaret, Richard’s wife, is comfortable but stifled as her dreams go unfulfilled; Al (Paul Bettany), Richard’s veteran father, is a good man suffering from a bad temper and alcoholism.

The themes and dialogue can be heavyhanded, with a slow, almost leisurely pace, but this is true-to-life; family conflict can be extremely unsubtle, and Here captures the frustrated, struggling but net-happy ebb-and-flow of

so many lives.

The extensive de-ageing visual effects overall look very convincing and only occasionally dip into the Uncanny Valley, and were achieved with Metaphysic Live generative AI (essentially making it “Deepfake: The Movie”).

While Metaphysic professes to a highlyethical, consent-based approach to AI production, this is just one facet of the entertainment industry recklessly barrelling forward with AI, and we need to make sure films like Here don’t normalise more unscrupulous uses of AI (Metaphysic reanimating Ian Holm for Alien: Romulus, for example).

Here is playing in most Victorian cinemas, and I seem to be one of the only film critics in the world who thoroughly enjoyed it.

Eurovision on Tour

The biggest live music show on Earth is touring for the first time since the Eurovision Song Contest began in 1956.

Eurovision, the biggest live show on the planet, coming Kemp’s curtain call

Following concerts ion London, Paris and Madrid, Eurovision on tour brings the Eurovision experience to the fans and will tour to three Australian cities, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney on 13, 15 and 17 November.

No less than 18 Eurovision legends will perform the songs that captivated the world on the internationally televised singing competition, alongside dedicated fa zone complete with stage props and legendary outfits (including ABBA).

Season: 15 November.

Venue: The Palais Theatre St. Kilda.

Located at 510 Elizabeth Street, Sticky Institute is run by voluntary artists who are ardent defenders of zine culture, dedicated to supporting and celebrating all things zine.

Offering a space to make, showcase and sell nearly 20,000 zine titles, the Melbourne-based non-profit is an important source of inspiration for zine makers around the world.

A zine – short for magazine – is a self-published work of text and images. Often produced using a photocopier and with a small circulation, zines can be comics, collages, poems, stories, essays or opinions. They reflect the DIY philosophy while emphasising the unique artistic styles of their creators.

Luke Sinclair is one of Sticky Institute’s three coordinators. In a recent Q and A, he introduced his role as to “keep the project open and going” –running the zine shop, writing grant applications, and attending zine fairs around the country on be-

Bookings: eurovisionontour.tv.

Peter and the Starcatcher

The smash hit of Broadway production and winner of five Tony Awards, will have its Australian Premiere touring nationally from 2024. Originally developed by Disney Theatrical Group.

Peter and the Starcatcher is the untold story

half of Sticky. Sticky opened in 2001 with 15 zines on its shelves. By 2008, it had launched the first zine fair in Melbourne outside its original location in Campbell Arcade, the underground connection between Flinders Street Station and Degraves Street. Then the zine fair moved to the biggest room in

of neverland. Before Neverland there was an island. Before Captain Hook, a moustached pirate.

Before Wendy, her mother Molly. Before Peter, a nameless orphan. Reimagined by Australia’s Dead Puppet Society, acclaimed for creating visual astounding worlds, this highly anticipated version of Peter and the Starcatcher blurs the lies between reality and fantasy, traversing oceans of mystical mermaids, and loads of curious creatures.

Season: from 8 November.

Venue: Arts Centre, Playhouse Melbourne.

Bookings: Contact Arts Centre Melbourne. Burrinja Theatre

Songs of the Southern Skies Volume 2.

Katie Noonan and Farin Schaupp have an intui-

tive an intuitive musical connection that has developed over the course of the 20 years of their creative relationship. Their collaborations to date have earned them ARIA Award and widespread praise. Together they return to their acclaimed Southern Skies catalogue reinterpreting some of their favourite songs by antipodean artists – this time focusing on some of our finest female artists. Renowned for breaking down genre boundaries, Kate Noonan’s technical mastery and pure voice makes her one of Australia’s most versatile and beloved vocalists. Guitarist Karin Schaupp is an internationally sought-after recitalist and soloist.

Season: Saturday 6 November. At 7.30pm. Venue: Burrinja Theatre.

the Melbourne Town Hall.

“I’m proud that we’ve kept the project alive,” Sinclair said. “We survived Covid and now we’ve survived the renovations in Campbell Arcade [as part of the Metro Tunnel project]. Our new location [in Elizabeth Street] is our 4th home in 23 years and it’s big and beautiful.”

The coordinators work with the Sticky Institute Management Committee to outline the organisation’s future direction.

“It’s a lot of work and once you factor in the planning of the zine fairs we coordinate and all the other things we do, you get an idea how much work it takes to keep the project alive. But when a mind-blowing new zine arrives on the shelf, it’s all worth it,” he confirmed.

“Through a mix of extreme hard work and good luck, we’ve managed to exist for 23 years thanks to the help of hundreds of volunteers over the years.

I look around and ask if the world still needs what we do and the answer is always yes, so we go round for another year.”

As a volunteer-operated long-term campaign, Sticky faces many challenges.

“The pros of being long-term is that you develop a following and a reputation and people know what to expect from a Sticky Institute event,” Sinclair said. “The strange part is that all of a sudden you are 50 years old and the new volunteers are 18. But I think everyone has something to offer the space so somehow it works.”

For those interested in zine making, Sinclair advised: “Give yourself an hour and make a zine from start to finish. Don’t be a perfectionist. Finish it and give it to all your friends. Listen to feedback. Then make another zine that is better than the first – and keep on doing that until you have made two thousand zines.”

AT TARRAWARRA

New view on human body

In its final week of exhibition, the collaborative works of leading contemporary Australian artists Su san Cohn and Eugenia Raskopoulos are ones not to miss.

The exhibition (SC)OOT(ER)ING around, curated by TarraWarra Museum of Art director Victoria Lynn, explores how the human body expresses social and cultural experiences.

Invited by Lynn to exhibition together, despite coming from different ends of the art spectrum in jewellery and installation, the cross-section of ideas, thinking and subject matter traversed artistic form.

“I thought of putting them together because they’re both senior women artists working in Australia today. Eugenia is in her mid 60s, and Su san Cohn is in her early 70s. It’s important we respect our senior practitioners,” Lynn said.

“The other thing they have in common is that they’re very interested in women’s rights and freedom of the body and freedom of women, really, and I felt that at this time, right across the world, that’s a message that I think is relevant to hear, particularly through the eyes of artists.”

The human body wears lived experience both on its skin and within. It expresses the cultural, sexual, racial and diverse geographic histories of individuals.

“For me, I have long watched their work from afar and been really impressed with how inventive they’ve both been to express the way that the human body and the female body wears its experience,” Lynn said.

“With Su san Cohn, we literally wear her works because they’re jewellery and then for some of Eugenia’s works, she’s looking at the inside of the body, like the heart or the skeleton, or she’s looking at what happens from within and there’s a psychological dimension to that as well.”

Two significant works in the exhibition explore exactly this concept of both the internal and external use of the body.

For the exhibition, Cohn has unveiled four new works including ‘I wish I was more like HER…’.

This piece is a tribute to five women who she admires and who have contributed to both women’s rights and human rights, namely American diplomat and political scientist Madeleine Albright being just one of those influential women.

“My work looks at women’s voices and listening. By drawing attention to strong women who have contributed to women’s rights and human rights in the work I wish I was more like HER …, I want to encourage other women to support each other,” Cohn said.

A major installation from Raskopoulos called ‘and the beat goes on’ is a sound and neon installation featuring the recorded heartbeats of 96 female artists over the age of 47, from all over Australia and of diverse backgrounds.

“The number is significant because my grand-

mother’s heartbeat stopped when she was 96 and I was 47,” Raskopoulos said.

“I envisage the heartbeats will be like a minimalist symphony – each heartbeat is unique, intimate and symbolic, and these portraits reflect on personal identity that includes time and body consciousness.”

Raskopoulos and Cohn also collaborated on works, including You’re Too Sharp and Word of Mouth, both exploring language, phrases and words used to describe women and how women embrace their unique relationship with language to subvert power structures and challenge social norms.

Lynn said while the intention of (SC)OOT(ER) ING around was about exploring “the role of women in society today” and expelling ageism, it has been done in an extraordinarily lovely way.

“What’s been surprising about the exhibition is

that it’s quite playful. There’s a lot of wordplay in it, and there’s lots of reflections and shadows and colour,” she said.

“So it’s an exhibition with a serious message, but it’s also an exhibition that is aesthetically, just very, very beautiful.”

Su san Cohn and Eugenia Raskopoulos’ works can be seen until Sunday 10 November.

TarraWarra Museum of Art’s next exhibition will be unveiled on 30 November, called Intimate Imaginaries featuring 13 artists with intellectual disabilities from Art Project Australia (APA).

“This is the first time those artists have had a big museum show,” Lynn said.

“So this is a very quirky, curious, colourful, unexpected, bright exhibition using fabric, drawing, painting and video. There’s a lot of very humorous work in it and all of the artists have just really responded to their everyday environments.”

Eugenia Raskopoulos’ installation ‘and the beat goes on’. (Fred Kroh)

Judith Lucy from Su san Cohn’s ‘I wish I was more like HER...’ series.

MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Your go-to dental

Valley Dental Family Clinic is an all female clinic based in Lilydale.

The clinic is owned by Dr Rupali Prabhu and Dr Sonali Prabhu. Rupali graduated from dental school in 1999. She has worked in private and public community clinics both in, and around Melbourne.

She has also lived out of the city, spending a period of time in Benalla in rural Victoria.

Rupali is passionate about providing high quality dental care and takes pleasure in sharing a story and a laugh with her patients.

She enjoys all aspects of dentistry and always strives to provide dental treatment in a relaxing and comfortable environment.

Rupali believes her practice and approach to dentistry creates an experience that will change yournotionofwhatatriptothedentist is.

Outside of work she loves to spend time with family and her young children, sharing her passion for reading and traveling with them at every opportunity. Sonaligraduatedfromdentalschool in 2003.

She has worked as a dentist in both community and private practices. She has also worked various roles within the dental industry.

Sonali believes that your mouth is the gateway to better wellbeing, and that a great healthy smile will leave a great lasting impression on people.

Sonali loves interacting with patients and ensuring they are comfortable and at-ease.

She enjoys all aspects of dentistry.

She particularly loves working with older clients.

In her spare time, she loves cookingdeliciousIndiandishesandenjoying time with her family and friends.

The third dentist joined the Valley Dental team two years ago and hasbeenanintegralpartoftheteam ever since.

With over 10 years of experience, Merhaz believes that world class dentistry should be delivered to each and every patient.

Mehraz has a keen interest in aesthetic dentistry and is studying a

You can help save lives

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood is urging tens of thousands of people with a common genetic condition who need to give blood as part of their medical treatment to consider donating at a donor centre to save lives.

Haemochromatosis, a condition that causes the body to store too much iron, is linked to cancer and organ damage and is the most common genetic disorder in Australia, affecting one in every 180-200 people.

The main treatment to reduce high levels of iron is the removal of blood, which is typically done every 12 weeks. In Australia, around 73,000 bags of blood taken from patients at pathology and GP services to treathaemochromatosisarediscardedeveryyear.

With blood demand nationally at a 12 yearhigh, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood is joining forces with The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and Haemochromatosis Australia to encourage people with haemochromatosis to speak to their GP about donating at a Lifeblood donor centre.

New research by Lifeblood revealed that many are not aware that their blood can be used to save lives – a misconception that could be preventing donations.

Lifeblood researcher Dr Peter Bentley said that people with haemochromatosis have the potential to contribute to the blood supply as they often need to give blood.

“People with haemochromatosis make up 2.5 per cent of the Australian blood donor panel, with 15,000 donors already making 37,000 donations every year at Lifeblood donor centres,” Mr Bentley said.

“Almost 90 per cent of donations from people with this condition are useable, however around 40 per cent of people we surveyed didn’t know their blood could be used to save lives,” he said.

certificate of Cosmetic Dentistry to introduce lip and cheek fillers to the clinic for our Valley Dental patients. Rupalisaidbeinganallfemaleteam, patients were treated with care and compassion.

“Staff are very approachable and compassionate, making everyone feel at ease coming to the dentist,“ she said.

The clinic offers a wide range of dental services including general dentistry, fillings, crowns, bridges and veneers.

Take advantage of current specials including a check-up, clean andtwox-raysfor$197,andin-chair whitening $450.

“We know that not everyone will be eligible to donate, or it may not be convenient if people don’t live close to a donor centre, but we believe that even if some of those 73,000 bags of discarded blood, were donated at a Lifeblood centre, it would make a significant difference to the nation’s blood supplies and the lives of patients across Australia at a time of record high demand.”

Donationsfrompeoplewithhaemochromatosis currently save up to 111,000 lives a year, and with greater awareness, Lifeblood believes this figure could be tens of thousands more.

Donations can be arranged by calling 13 14 95 or visiting donate.blood.com.au

(Unsplash).

Come see the Valley Dental team. (Supplied)

MEDICALLY SPEAKING Centre’s newest doctor

Healesville Medical Centre is pleased to welcome Dr Ananthan Pratheeb, who will be joining the dedicated team of physicians this November.

Dr Pratheeb brings with him a wealth of medical experience and a comprehensive range of procedural skills to serve our local community.

Dr Pratheeb obtained his Bachelor of Medicine / Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in 2004 and subsequently underwent extensive hospital training in numerous areas of General Medicine, General Surgery and ENT.

After moving to Australia in 2009, he further developed his medical expertise and earned his membership with The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, along with certification from the Australian Medical Council (AMC).

His distinguished career includes valuable experience at Royal Darwin Hospital, where he worked across various medical departments including Cardiology, Oncology, Geriatric Medicine, Renal Medicine, and both Vascular and Orthopaedic Surgery.

This diverse hospital experience has equipped him with a broad understanding of complex medical conditions and their management.

Since relocating to Victoria in 2019, Dr Pratheeb has established himself as a respected general practitioner in the Goulburn Valley region, where he has served the community for the past five years.

His approach to medicine emphasises comprehensive care, with particular focus on Preventive Health and Chronic Disease Management.

His special interest in Cardiology and ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) conditions allows him to provide specialised care within the general practice setting.

Patients will benefit from Dr Pratheeb’s extensive procedural expertise, which includes:

• Skin cancer assessment, management, and surgical removal

• Complex wound management and suturing

• ENT procedures, including the skilled removal of foreign bodies

• Orthopaedic care, particularly hand injury management and backslab application

• Minor surgical procedures such as removal of cysts, haematomas, and small lipomas

• PEG tube management and bladder irrigation

• Implanon insertion and removal

• Comprehensive general practice procedures

Dr Pratheeb is particularly passionate about dermatology and skin cancer detection, an essential service for our Australian community.

His commitment to preventive healthcare and early intervention aligns perfectly with our clinic’s mission to provide proactive, patient-centered care.

When not attending to patients, Dr Pratheeb maintains an active lifestyle, enjoying soft ball, cricket and tennis.

These sporting interests reflect his belief in the importance of maintaining a healthy worklife balance and staying physically active.

Dr Pratheeb is currently accepting new patients and looks forward to serving the Healesville community.

His addition to the medical team further strengthens the clinic’s ability to provide comprehensive healthcare services to local residents of all ages.

For appointments with Dr Pratheeb, please contact Healesville Medical Centre on 5962 4379.

They welcome both new and existing patients.

Home care that puts you first

Caring Yarra Ranges takes

do.

approach to

Dr Ananthan Pratheeb has joined the Healesville Medical Centre team. (Supplied)

REMEMBRANCE DAY Unwavering connection

As the crisp November air settles over the Yarra Valley, our thoughts turn to one of the most solemn and significant occasions in our community calendar. This Remembrance Day, as the clock approaches the eleventh hour, Healesville will once again fall silent in tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.

For our RSL Sub-Branch, Remembrance Day carries profound significance that extends far beyond a simple ceremony. In our close-knit community, where generations of families have called Healesville home, we maintain living connections to those who served in conflicts spanning from the Boer War to more recent peacekeeping missions.

The names etched on our local cenotaph tell stories that are woven into the very fabric of our town. These were not just soldiers, sailors, and air force personnel – they were farmers from our valleys, shopkeepers from our main street, and young men and women who once walked the same paths we tread today.

Our community’s contribution to Australia’s military history is significant. During World War I, from a then-small township, dozens of local men embarked for distant shores, many never to return. World War II saw another generation answer the call, while subsequent conflicts in Korea, Vietnam, and beyond have seen Healesville continue to serve our nation.

Today, our RSL Sub-Branch serves as both a guardian of these memories and a vital support network for veterans and their families. We see daily how the impact of service continues long

after conflicts end. Our younger veterans, particularly those who served in Afghanistan, Iraq, and peacekeeping operations, remind us that the need for support and understanding is as relevant today as it was a century ago.

This Remembrance Day, we invite all Healesville residents to join us at the Healesville RSL for our annual service. The ceremony is more than tradition – it is our sacred duty to ensure that each new generation understands the price of peace and the importance of vigilance in protecting it.

To our younger residents, we extend a special invitation. In an age where global tensions continue to simmer, understanding our military history and its impact on our community has never been more important. The stories of service and sacrifice that echo through Healesville’s streets are your inheritance – a legacy that speaks to the very best of our Australian character.

As we gather this Remembrance Day, we will remember not only those who fell in distant battles but also the ongoing challenges faced by our returned service personnel. We will remember the families who bear the invisible scars of service, and we will reaffirm our commitment to supporting all those who have served our nation.

At 11am on 11 November, when the Last Post sounds across our valley and we observe our minute of silence, we invite you to stand with us. In that sacred moment, as the hills of Healesville keep their quiet watch, we will fulfil our solemn promise to remember them.

Lest We Forget.

11 NOVEMBER 2024

Remembrance Day

WE REMEMBER AND HONOUR THOSE WHO SERVED AND GAVE SO MUCH. THEIR SACRIFICE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN

LEST WE FORGET

James Caddle lays a wreath at the 2023 Remembrance Day service. (Kath Gannaway)

The Healesville War Memorial will be the backdrop to Remembrance Day. (On file)

REMEMBRANCE DAY

Please join us at Healesville RSL as we hold our annual commemoration event to pause and reflect on those who died in all wars, conflicts, and operations.

Commening at 10.45am, our service includes performances and speeches by locals including the Healesville High School Band, local bugle player John Stanhope OAM and John Harris to perform The Ode.

Healesville RSL president Colette Shaw will lead the service. (On file)

Don a poppy and join Healesville RSL for Remembrance Day. (Supplied)

Wreaths will be laid in tribute to fallen soldiers in all wars. (Supplied)

In past years, VCE students from Healesville High School’s band have performed. (Supplied)

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

ACROSS

1 Sweet sauce made with milk and eggs (7)

5 Tableland (7)

9 Gloomy (9)

10 Distort (5)

11 SleepingBeauty protagonist (6)

12 Elegant (8)

14 Mother or father (6)

15 Fur (4)

19 Web auction site (4)

20 To present (6)

24 Small blade (8)

25 Marketplace (6)

27 Town famed for witchcraft trials (5)

28 Largeness (9)

29 Ocean creature (3,4)

30 Region (7)

DOWN

1 Occasional (6)

2 A planet (6)

3 Relating to cultivated land (8)

4 Speaker’s platform (4)

5 Showing something to a group (10)

6 Movement (6)

7 Main action of a play (8)

8 Inverted (8)

13 Horrific (10)

16 Fierce storms (8)

17 Flowering shrub (8)

18 Initial service fee (8)

21 Cloisonné (6)

22 Female Arabic name meaning captivating (6)

23 Stick of wax used for writing (6)

26 Neglect (4)

PRESENTING AN ULTRA-MODERN LIFESTYLE

CHIC, comfortable and convenient are three words that describe this ultra-modern complex of townhouses, showcasing quality fixtures and desirable inclusions spanning over a lightfilled, contemporary layout. Town houses 2, 3, 4 and 5 are available to purchase.

Brand new, never lived in and set in the highly esteemed enclave; these stunning homes are located only moments from Lilydale Railway Station and shopping precinct. Boasting stylish accents and a sturdy construction, the residences are altogether complemented by a well-composed garden and contemporary façade lending a hint of all that awaits inside.

Neutral tones, high ceilings and timber flooring are seamlessly integrated throughout the light-filled interior to provide vivid contrasting and spaciousness, enhancing the exceptionally inviting ambience. Furthermore, the beautiful views, and tree top aspect are a true point of difference.

Designed with an open-plan living area incorporates the dining domain, connecting with the well-equipped kitchen featuring stainless steel electric oven and stove plus dishwasher. Other highlights list as; stone benchtops, a series of sizable drawers, tilled splashbacks, plenty of preparation space and easy connectivity via sliding doors to the sizeable balcony outside.

Three spacious, carpeted bedrooms are well proportioned, with robes. Main bedroom with access to a full bathroom whist bedroom two and three are zoned together and share a modern bathroom hosting the addition of a bathtub with separate toilet. On this level there is also the thoughtful addition of a study nook. Seasonal relief has been well catered for with four split system units in each house, dedicated laundry with storage and bench space, water tank and double garage with extra storage space and remote roller door and internal access.

Suitably positioned in a reputable community, this address is placed only a short walk from quality primary and secondary schooling options, Reserves with playgrounds. Also within easy reach of golf courses, local eateries, Eastland and EastLink freeway for direct access to the CBD. Proximity to the delights of the Yarra Valley for weekend activities are also a bonus.

An ideal property for those looking to downsize on maintenance and upsize in lifestyle, these stunning residences are truly in a league of their own.

FLAT ALLOTMENT AND GREAT GARAGING

OFFERS CLOSING Tuesday 26th of November at 4pm (unless sold prior).

Discover the hidden charm of this ideally located family home, close to all of Emerald’s amenities. Nestled on a private, flat 1180m² (approx.) allotment, this character-filled residence spans two levels, offering a unique blend of comfort, space, and countryside views from the upper floor.

Inside, you’ll find 5 spacious bedrooms plus a study, including an oversized master suite with a walk-in robe and modern ensuite. The modern central bathroom is positioned to easily service the remaining bedrooms. The home is thoughtfully designed for both family living and entertaining, featuring a formal lounge, a large kitchen with stainless steel appliances and dishwasher, meals area, family room, and a rumpus room complete with a wet bar, also a gym and 5th bedroom currently an office for those wishing to have private space

to work from home.

Comfort and convenience are assured with gas ducted heating, a split system, polished floorboards, ducted vacuum, gas heater, and ample storage. Parking is abundant, with a triple garage (with 2 post hoist) and a 3-car carport.

Entertain in style with a vast alfresco area, complete with cooking facilities, or unwind by the solar-heated pool, surrounded by a deck and its own outdoor bathroom.

An indoor spa offers a relaxing retreat, while the flat lawn areas and established gardens are perfect for kids and outdoor activities.

Located on a peaceful, no-through road within walking distance to town, this home is packed with features and possibilities.

Come see for yourself how you can easily transition your family to a fabulous ‘Hills’ lifestyle.

HOME FOCUS

ROOM FOR ALL THE FAMILY ON 1,619 SQM

YOUR search for that true family-friendly home is right here at 51 Sandells Road, Tecoma where the comfort of a 4 bedroom (plus study or fifth bedroom) meets the serenity of mother nature. Split over three levels where everyone can enjoy their own space. The huge 7-meter-long kitchen boasts updated appliances, including induction cooking, S/S dishwasher, corner pantry, and AMPLE bench space. Adjoining dining/lounge with a toe toasting log look fire is a quiet retreat. Each of the four bedrooms have builtin robes and the master with a large ensuite and a walk-in robe. The BEST room is the massive rumpus room, an all-purpose room where once stood a full-size billiards table but is now a playroom/games room or whatever you wish room.

With a glorious backdrop of open lawns and scattered gums, there is ample space for kids to play and explore the garden corners plus the ideal chill zone at the bottom of the garden around the fire pit. With a lock-up 3m x 3m garden shed and the under-house space, your storage/workshop needs are covered. These are just some of the things the current owners have to say about living here…..

“We really loved the location. Our kids could walk to both the Primary and Secondary Schools or down to the station to get to work or University. We often strolled into Belgrave or Upwey to enjoy the many restaurants or the cinema. As keen bush walkers and trail runners, the Sherbrooke Forest at the end of the road provided great opportunities and the local wildlife offered plenty of entertainment. We have a little Tawny Frogmouth family who roost right outside our rumpus room every year, King Parrots, so tame they eat from our hands, a cute echidna who ambles through the yard and a choir of Kookaburras who wake us at night. The frogs love our pond and we even have regular visits from Powerful Owls. When I was working full time, I loved to wind down by sitting on the back deck or the balcony, taking in the beautiful scenery. When it’s just the two of us, we like to sit on the balcony with a coffee-but when friends or family are over, the back deck and back yard garden areas are great for get togethers.

The size of the rumpus room, saw it reinvented many times as our family grew and changed. It started as a playroom, then as our kids grew it became party central, a place where their friends could hang out and play pool or watch TV. When they left home it became an art studio and now we’ve come full circle and it’s once more a playroom.

This house has really given us decades of wonderful memories and we will be sad to say goodbye.”

OFFERSCLOSING4pmMonday11/11/24

LivinghereisallaboutrelaxingandenjoyingthelifestylethatisjustminutesfromMonbulk Township.Accessisviaa gateanda sealeddriveway &thereisplentyofparking.The homehasa welcomingvibe,livingspaces &frontdeckwithgreatoutlooks,freshly paintedinteriors,a stunningbathroom,refreshedkitchen, aTikki-stylebar,coveredareas onewitha potbelly,a tieredrearyard,a pondandevena Tippee.Thepropertyhasan extra-longsinglegarage,a dogenclosure,fabulousparking,gatedandfencedyard.

MickDolphin 0429684522

OFFERSCLOSING4pmWednesday20/11/24

Discovertheperfectblendofprivacyandpotentialonthisexpansive5656m²cleared blockofland,situatedon aquiet,no-throughroadinscenicCockatoo.Thispeaceful retreatisreadyforyourvision,withplanningpermitsfor afamilyhomecurrentlyin progress.Thelarge,16mx20mfully fittedshedincludesa modernkitchen,dining,living areawithcozywoodheating&asplitsystem.Enjoytheoutdoorswitha stunningoutdoor bathbuiltinto aspaciousdeck.Power& waterconnectedwithgasavailable.

MickDolphin 0429684522

AlisonBarkley 0494175410

OFFERSCLOSING4pmWednesday13/11/24

$1,190,000-$1,300,000

Curved &sophisticatedthis‘oneofa kind’homeexcitesthesenses &invitesthosewho liketominimisetheircarbonfootprint& includes 2livingareas-one a‘GreatRoom’with 4.5mceilingswith aEurofireplace, aTVroom,polished concreteHydronic floorheating, 10Kwsolar,2 inverters& Teslabattery,doubleglazing,covered patiowithbreathtaking views,established fruittrees,greenhouse,multipletankstotaling34000L,remotegates, doublegarageand aninsulated studio/work/arts& crafts/playroomwithdoubleglazing 3 A 2

MickDolphin 0429684522

AlisonBarkley 0494175410

AUCTION7pmThursday21/11/24

Setonthehighsidetotakeinnicetreedvistas,thisneat& tidyWesternRedCedarhome issuretoimpressanditismove-inreadywithnothingtodo!Thehomefeaturesanopen planbright &airykitchen,living& dining,extrawidefrontdeck,A/C,GDH, adouble carport,excellentunder-housestorage,concrete& steelstumpsandestablishedgardens onjustover a¼ acre.Locatedwithinwalkingdistancetobelgrave’sshops,cafesand trainstation.ZonedforTecomaPrimary,UpweyHigh &belgraveHeightsChristianSchool

AnthonyIorlano 0494142438

DaveStewart 0411655611

THIS WILL BE A JOY TO LIVE IN!

WELCOME to a spacious, light filled sanctuary nestled in a quiet spot with a beautiful babbling “ Walkers Creek” meandering through. A remarkable property offering a harmonious blend of comfort and elegance, featuring leafy surroundings.

As you step inside, you’ll be captivated by the stylish and modern, yet warm atmosphere that instantly created. The spacious kitchen and dining area flow seamlessly into a large undercover deck, making it ideal for entertaining with friends while enjoying the serenity.

This versatile home boasts three generous bedrooms, plus a study or nursery or home office - your choice. Two stylish bathrooms and beautiful window vistas throughout enhance the sense of spaciousness and tranquility.

The outdoor space invites you to dip your toes in the creek, stroll over the bridge to gather fresh fruit from your trees.

Off street parking, a lock-up garage/ workshop area, there’s ample room for vehicles. Embrace the warmer months with a refreshing walk to the Yarra for a swim, and take advantage of the nearby village shops offering a delightful variety of food and goodies.

Whether you’re seeking a weekend getaway or a forever home, this stunning property promises a lifestyle of comfort, beauty, and connection to nature. Don’t miss your chance to make this unique home your reality!

CharmandCharacterinAbundance!

Thischaractercharmerisnestledamongstprivatecottagegardensandlovelyoldoaks.Inside polishedtimberfloors,highceilingsanddecorativefeaturesjuststartthepictureofwhatlivingin thishomewilltrulybelike. Abeautifulcountrykitchenshowcasesamplebenchandstorage,900ml countrycooker,dishwasherand abeautifuloutlookthroughyourcasementwindows,thisspace isdivine!Thehomehasformalandinformallivingspaces,dedicateddiningnook,beautifuldado panellingthroughout,a stunningbathroom.Therearethreegenerousandprettybedrooms,the masterhasdirectaccesstothegorgeousmainbathroomandprovidestriplerobes.Outsidethere’s alockupworkshop& doublecarporttuckedbehinda remoterollerdoorandprivacyfencing,the cornerblockcreatinga wonderfulspacetouseandenjoyeverysquaremeterofthe693m2block.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

HobbyFarmLivingonSmallAcreage

Smallhobbyfarmlivingatit’sbest,thisoriginalandmuchlovedfamilyhomeisnowavailableforthe nextfamilytoenjoyandlivetherelaxedsemirurallifestyle.Situatedonjustover3 acreswithloadsof spacetoexploreandenjoyit’stheidealsizetotocreateyourownselfsufficientlifestyle.Thehome isspaciousandboastsupstairsanddownstairslivingoffering 3bedrooms,plus2 bathroomsandwith multiplelivingzonesover2 levelswith afeaturefamily/livingroomupstairs;ideallysituatedtocapture thenaturalsunlightandoverlookingthepicturesquevista.Ventureoutsideandenjoytheopen spacewitha multitudeofpossibilities, afantasticopportunitytosecurea greatfamilypropertyina popularandsoughtafterarea.

DavidCarroll M 0419539320

Stunning39.3AcreswithFantasticViews PerchedaboveandoverlookingtheWooriYallocktownshipandthesurroundingYarraValleywith fantasticviewstoadmireandenjoythissensationalparceloflandof39.3acres(15.91ha)isa rare find.Quality,clearundulatingpasturewith amultitudeofpossibilities,theold3 bedroomfarmhouse andbungalow/studioareinneedofsomeloveandattentionbutoffera greatplacetostartthebig acreagelifestylethewholefamilywilllove.Substantialsheddingwith alargelockupshedandopen farmmachineryshedwithplentyofoptionsforimprovement. Agreatpropertyoffering asuperb rurallifestyleandconvenientlysituatedjusta shortdistancetolocalschools,shopsandtransportand withtheWarburtontrailjustdowntheroadit’sa greatplacetobe.Acreageofthissizeandlocation closetotownisveryrareandveryhardtofindsomakethemovenow.

DavidCarroll M 0419539320 Inspection: Sat1:30-2:00pm

MichaelRobinson M 0418505635

12BrettRoad,Warburton$730,000-$780,000

EnchantingHomeon ½acrewithMountainViews Thistwostorycharacterhomeboaststhreebedroomsandtwobathrooms,offering adelightful retreatamidststunningmountainvistas.Nestledon ageneroushalfacreblock,it’sideallysituated. Thegroundlevelhoststwobedroomsalongside amainbathroom,gracedwithhighceilingsand decorativecornices.Theupdatedkitchenis aculinaryhaven,boastinga stylishbreakfastbar,ample benchspace,and adelightfulwindowoverlookingthelushgarden.Stepoutsideontothegorgeous deckarea,perfectforalfrescodiningwhilesoakinginthepicturesquesurroundings.Downstairs, aspaciousrumpusareaawaits,andmainbedroomcompletewithanensuiteandbuiltinrobe. Outside,themeticulouslylandscapedgardensburstwithcolour,adornedwithcharmingshadetrees scatteredthroughouttheproperty,creatinga sereneoasistocallhome.

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

Inspection: Fri4:00-4:30pm

EXQUISITE BEAUTY AND A SERENE LIFESTYLE

DEDICATED to exemplary family living and entertaining, positioned in a serene leafy location, this stunning and sophisticated four-bedroom residence perfectly blends with its backdrop revealing its contemporary beauty. Approximately ¾ of an acre of open spaces and gardens encircle this attractive home and beyond the brick façade awaits a residence that promises to immerse the family in generous proportions.

Every detail throughout has been carefully curated to showcase a series of immaculate spaces underpinned by quality appointments and craftsmanship with timber accents and modern finishes. It becomes immediately apparent that every care has been taken to produce a residence that is not only inviting but inspiring at every turn. Adding aesthetic charm, the home brings together a fusion of high ceilings, large windows, skylights, plus formal and casual living options.

The main living area is truly striking, high ceilings, timber tones, rendered fireplace with large mantle and wood hutch with great connectivity via sliding doors into the rumpus and games room with bar, perfect for entertaining a crowd or as separate living

areas to accommodate its new family’s needs.

The open plan kitchen, and dining area is comfortable and spacious, opening to the enviable alfresco deck, with pitched roof, showcasing an outdoor living space perfect for larger gatherings or relaxing quietly with tranquil outlook to the green garden views.

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Additional benefits of the home list as; dedicated laundry, ceiling fans, split systems, gas ducted heating, double garage with internal access, sealed U shaped driveway to make coming and going simple and provide plenty of off street parking, plus access via gates into the back yard providing further options to park boats, caravans or trailers.

Chic, comfortable and convenient are three words that describe this ultra-modern complex of townhouses, showcasing quality fixtures and desirable inclusions spanning over a light-filled, contemporary layout. Town houses 2, 3, 4 and 5 are available to purchase.

Brand new, never lived in and set in the highly esteemed enclave; these stunning homes are located only moments from Lilydale Railway Station and shopping precinct. Boasting stylish accents and a sturdy construction, the residences are altogether complemented by a wellcomposed garden and contemporary façade lending a hint of all that awaits inside.

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Designed with an open-plan living area incorporates the dining domain, connecting with the well-equipped kitchen featuring stainless steel electric oven and stove plus dishwasher. Other highlights list as; stone benchtops, a series of sizable drawers, tilled splashbacks, plenty of preparation space and easy connectivity via sliding doors to the sizeable balcony outside.

Three spacious, carpeted bedrooms are well proportioned, with robes. Main bedroom with access to a full bathroom whist bedroom two and three are zoned together and share a modern bathroom hosting the addition of a bathtub with separate toilet. On this level there is also

the thoughtful addition of a study nook.

Seasonal relief has been well catered for with four split system units in each house, dedicated laundry with storage and bench space, water tank and double garage with extra storage space and remote roller door and internal access.

Suitably positioned in a reputable community, this address is placed only a short walk from quality primary and secondary schooling options, Reserves with playgrounds. Also within easy reach of golf courses, local eateries, Eastland and EastLink freeway for direct access to the CBD. Proximity to the delights of the Yarra Valley for weekend activities are also a bonus.

An ideal property for those looking to downsize on maintenance and upsize in lifestyle, these stunning residences are truly in a league of their own.

DESIRABLE FAMILY HOME WITH DEPENDENT PERSON’S UNIT

IF you tally up the top features of this impressive property, you will discover an unparalleled level of versatility and comfort.

Comprising a generous 4-bedroom family home, an idyllic 2-bedroom self-contained dependent person’s unit, large workshop, secure double carport, and abundant offstreet parking, you simply won’t find all these elements anywhere else.

The primary residence is immaculately presented in pre paration for new owners to move in and make themselves at home. The sunlit lounge features a lovely secure wood heater with ornate mantle. The open plan sitting room, dining area, and kitchen with breakfast bar, stone benchtops, gas cooker, and shaker cabinets is the ideal hub of this inviting home. Add to this a sizeable home office, beautiful bathrooms including a modern rain shower ensuite with the main bedroom, and a stellar outdoor entertaining area with covered and open decking, built-in spa, paved patio, and inground swimming pool.

With a long list of bonus features including cost-saving solar power, external blinds, quality flooring and carpet, plantation shutters, and ducted heating and cooling, this residence has it all.

Settled on a magnificent 1,741sqm (approx.) allotment only 350m from Tecoma Station and also within walking distance of schools, shops, cafes, and parkland, there are no compromises required at this exceptional property. Plan your viewing today.

• Fabulous 4-bedroom home with bonus 2-bedroom unit

Large allotment with sealed drive, carport, workshop and inground pool

Open plan kitchen with breakfast bar and quality appliances

• Main bedroom with modern rain shower ensuite

• Fantastic outdoor entertaining and pool area

• Sizeable study and cost-saving solar power.

Cricket - it’s a family affair

By Callum Ludwig

Three generations of keen cricketers took the field all together for the first time on the weekend.

The Yarra Junction Cricket Club (YJCC) gave the Thornton family, including patriarch Peter, the chance to all head out for a bat and bowl on Saturday 26 October.

Peter said it was a very special day on many levels for the Thornton family.

“It started with my grandsons, Jordan and Taj, opening the bowling for the Under 14s against Kilsyth with Jordy taking 1 wicket and Taj bowling a tidy spell. With YJCC’s turn to bat Taj made a welcome pile of 21 and Jordy retired on 20 not out in a closely fought game won by Yarra Junction,” he said.

“That same afternoon, myself, my three adult sons (Daniel, Steve and Callum) along with my two grandsons all stepped onto the Wesburn oval to compete in the Yarra Junction 4ths team against Yarra Glen,”

“To say it was a thrill and proud moment for myself and family would be an understatement.”

The Thornton boys weren’t content with just making up the numbers, with notable performances coming from Callum (53 not out), Steve (26 not out) and young Taj who put on six nnot out in a finishing partnership with Steve. Jordy, Daniel and Peter were not required to bat as Yarra Junction piled on 176 runs. Cousins of the Thorntons, David and Andrew Cunningham also put on 22 runs and 50 not out respectively.

Peter said he first started playing cricket when he was 23 years old at Hoddles Creek Cricket Club where he and his wife lived at the time.

“I played there for some 10 years of enjoyable cricket, we moved to Don Valley and due to family and work commitments I stopped playing for a short period of time,” he said.

“When my eldest son Daniel started playing for Yarra Junction Cricket Club’s Under 14s, I followed him to the club and there I enjoyed some

10 years of cricket, training sessions and familyfocused functions,”

“During this time Steve and Callum followed Daniel to play junior cricket and during this era I had the very special experience of playing with all three of my sons in senior cricket teams.”

Peter and the Thornton family thanked Team Captain Toby Pilton and Club Coach Mike Ainsle for their efforts to make the day happen and Greg Mitchell for his efforts over 50 years at the club.

Peter said every team member contributed to a good team win over Yarra Glen which made the game even more special.

“With YJs turn to bowl Jordy opened the bowling with a tight 0/7 off 3 overs. Daniel, Steve, Callum and Taj all bowled tidy spells as every other member of the team did,” he said.

“At the end of our bowling, I managed one very unmemorable over, but the outstanding bowling performance was Glen Peake (long-time teammate) with 2/35 off 6 overs in an outstanding effort for a man in his 50s,”

“Our family will be forever grateful to YJCC for facilitating this opportunity and for all the well wishes expressed by many members of the club, it is a testament to the very family-orientated nature of the whole club.”

333 or visit www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au

Three generations of Thorntons lined up for the Yarra Junction on the weekend. (Supplied)

The Yarra Junction 4th XI picked up a win for the Thornton family.

Hockey action for local students

By Dongyun Kwon

While other students were taking a break to get ready for the next school term, four Healesville students had a special experience, representing Victoria at the nationwide competition.

Inline Hockey Australia National Championships 2024 was held from 29 September to 5 October in the City of Logan, Queensland.

Healesville High School Year 7 student Madison Prendergast participated in the event playing for the U11 Victorian Team along with a student from Healesville Primary School and two students from St Brigid’s Catholic Primary School.

“I was really excited to represent my state,” Madison said.

“It was a really good experience because I got to meet a lot of new people.

“I’ve learnt how to be a team and social skills [through the experience of Nationals].”

To represent Victoria, she had to get through

try-out showing her skating and hockey skills to the coaches and was selected as a defender of the U11 Victorian Team.

Unfortunately, the U11 Victorian Team lost all of its games, unlike last year when they finished second place.

“Last year, we had a lot of better players,” Madison said.

“This year, other teams were really good [compared to last year].”

The defender learns inline hockey through Lilydale Rats Inline Hockey Club, having training on every Tuesday and practice game on every Thursday.

Her brother, who joined the club one year earlier, motivated her to start learning inline hockey.

“My little brother started playing three years ago. I saw him playing Nationals, and then I decided to play,” Madison said.

“I’ve played for two years.”

Meaningful season for tennis club

By Dongyun Kwon

This year will be remembered as a special year for Yarra Glen Tennis Club (YGTC), adding a significant milestone in its nearly 130 years history.

The club successfully hosted the Pennant Picnic event, received two awards (Community Engagement Award and Pennant Player of the Year) and most importantly won the pennant flag for Grade 11.

It’s the second time winning the pennant flag and first time winning the men’s pennant flag in YGTC’s history.

YGTC ladies’ team won the pennant in 2000, which was the only time the club won the title prior to this year.

YGTC committee member and head coach Jarron Morris, who also played for Grade 11 pennant league, said it was an “incredible season”.

“We weren’t expected to win the pennant because we finished second on our section ladder and placed fifth seed overall,” he said.

“There were four teams that were expected to perform better than us in the grade finals. Most matches we played came down the last rubber of the day, so we were very fortunate to have won it.

“It was just an accumulation of a lot of things all doing right at the same time.”

Tennis Victoria Pennant Home and Away League for Grade 11 had four sections, and each section consisted of eight teams.

After 14 weeks of regular season, the top four teams of each section played a play-off bracket to get qualified to grade finals.

Two out of four teams from each section who won the play-off bracket, which in total eight teams from four sections, competed to decide the flag winner through grade finals.

YGTC Men’s Grade 11 team started the season with the loss in the first round.

“It was a shocking moment for us because we had a pretty good team in place and we were very optimistic starting the season,” Morris said.

“With that first round loss, it shocked us and reignited our season again, and as it turned out, we didn’t lose another match again for the rest of the season. There were a few draws and a lot of close matches.

“It wasn’t as if we were particularly dominant throughout the season, but every time that we were challenged, we’d somehow find a way to win.”

The playing coach said the impetus of winning the flag as a small club came from a level of team cohesiveness.

“Our team prioritised a lot in training together during the week as well as celebrating small wins. The most important part of our week was going to the pub on a Saturday night,” Morris said.

“We’d socialise whether we won or lost on any given week.

“It was just the building of social connection and social cohesiveness in the team that drove a

lot of support. We all supported each other and we’ve all known each other for a long time which was the real advantage that we had over other clubs.”

The playing coach gave one of the young players credit for the win who saved the team at the important moments during the final series.

“Alex Maffescioni is only 17 years old but he won pretty much three matches off his racket,” Morris said.

“He played the last match of the day [at the grade final] and with all the pressure on him including the final, he won the match for us. He somehow managed to win two points to secure us.”

“So much of the pressure was on his racket

Fantastic fields at Warburton

By Ron Hottes

The Monday V.V.V’s:

With the biggest field playing since last Autumn, there was much frivolity and enjoyment on-course, someone who enjoyed herself greatly was Sally-Anne Clarke, because she took home the top voucher for her solid 18-point total. That effort won on a countback from the unlucky Georgie, although Georgie did take home the runner-up prize. And, yes, dear readers, there was an NTP won because Sally-Anne really topped off her day with one on the 9th. Great golfing, young lady. It is to be hoped that the V.V.V. numbers will grow as the real Spring weather kicks in. Where are you, Ineke, get home soon.

Wednesday 30 October, Stableford: With the combination of good golfing weather and fantastic course conditions, it was no surprise that a very healthy midweek field produced some seriously eyepopping results. Ken Barratt popped most member’s eyes with a fine 41-point result. K.B. is a seriously talented golfer when he is on his game and he was really on this day. Neil ‘Mr Scotland’ Leckenby returned to his regular consistent form with a 39-point score posted. Andrew McMath also hit his best form, posting a strong 38-point score. The rundown reached 33. NTPs went home with Steuart Hawke (3rd), Dave Hatt ( 6th on his second shot), Captain Whitehead (9th), P.K. (12th) and Noel Cross (15th).

Twilight:

In week four of the insanely popular Twilight event, George beat Georgie. That is George Brown, with a fine return of 22 points, took home the top voucher, beating Georgie Houniet, who had to be content, once again, with the runner-up prize, for posting 20 solid points. Well done to both of them for their fine rounds. The balls extended, in the big field of 55, down 18 only. The NTP winners were Captain Whitehead (10th), Ash Hall, (12th) and Troy Veeneker (15th).

and he did incredibly well, not only in the pennant final but in the pennant semi final as well. Two weeks in a row, he executed the win, which was fantastic for someone in his age.”

Mount Lilydale Mercy College student Alex Maffescioni got into tennis when he was 10.

He joined the YGTC at the age of 12 and started playing competitively the next year.

Maffescioni said he wanted to win the flag for the community who supported his team.

“It was pretty nerve racking but I knew there was no chance I was going to lose,” he said.

“I had to win against the same guy in the grade final who I played at the Pennant Picnic.

“I won three close matches to bring the team a win.”

Saturday 2 November, Stroke and Monthly Medal:

And so another Monthly Medal has been played and won by Tim Jones. Since Tim has returned to the Club, a good result like this (Nett 65), was always on the cards from weeks ago. Good golfing, T.J. The runnerup voucher was snared by Aaron Henderson, with an exemplary Nett 67. Dale Sund had a very good day, grabbing the third prize and two NTPs, if you don’t mind (3rd and 12th). Great job Dale. Balls only went down to Nett 70. The only other NTP won was by Peter Fox, for a superb tee-shot on the 9th.

Warburton Golf Club results. (File)

Group photo after winning the flag at Beaumaris Lawn Tennis Club, with the supporters who remained after the presentations with the Pennant Flag. (Supplied)

L-R: Jarron Morris, Daniel Roper, Alex Maffescioni and James Maffescioni Raising the Pennant.

Madison at the Nationals. (Supplied)

Top winning form

By Ian Milgate

Tuesday’s Team 1 played away at Chirnside Park which has a very slick green, so they needed to be on the ball to have a chance of beating Chirnside on their home ground.

Wally May’s team came out firing and never looked like losing, obviously the fast green suited them.

Steve Graham’s team also played some great bowls with Mick Featherstone a stand out.

All in all a great effort by everyone on a quick green.

Mick Featherstone, Hilda Gurney, Rob Broadhurst, Steve Graham 21/16

Gerda Otto, Robert Ayres, Colin Jarvis, Wally Mays 34/14

Rita Featherstone, Robyn Turville, Bob Brown, Steve Bulled 14/20

Tuesday’s Team 2 played at home against Yarra Junction who had a great first round win against Croydon.

This would give them confidence, while we had to improve after being beaten by Mooroolbark in the first game.

The team was able to jump them from the start with Barry Parkers team picking up shots every end.

At the half time break, two rinks were fairly even with the other rink ahead by 17 shots.

After the break Barry Parkers team scored eight on one end which ended Yarra Junctions chance of winning.

Healesville finished up winning by 16 shots 69/53.

A great effort by everyone.

Tino Macari, Glenda Graham, Bernard Godde, Ian Milgate 18/21

Russell Smith, Gerry Gommers, Damian Key, Barry Parker 33/11

John Allen, Anne Holland, Judy Veermann, Len Cosson 18/21

Community Barefoot Challenge had another

super night on the green with some excellent bowling happening over the night.

I have the opportunity to watch the players whilst I’m on the Barbecue and I can say that quite a number of them would get a spot in our Pennant sides.

“Look out guys.”

So after week two, teams were matched with similar scoring from week one.

Therefore Advanced Agg out in the lead on 38 followed by The Laneway and Watts River Brewing on 35, McDonald Maintenance on 32 and Stevenson Constructions on 31.

At this stage, the competition is very close and looks like several teams will be in the mix by the finals week.

Good luck to all next round.

Saturday’s Team 1 played Croydon at home.

Currently Croydon were sitting on top of the ladder with Healesville second, on the same points.

A win today would catapult Healesville to the top, so the team was hoping for a home ground

advantage.

Croydon looked the part especially when they came out with their chests pumped up, so Healesville thought they were in for a tough game.

Healesville just put their heads down and put some great bowls down to head into the break 15 shots up on the scoreboard.

After the break Croydon had a serious discussion in the huddle to pump their players up, but Healesville continued quietly and let their bowls do the talking.

In the end Healesville had a great win by 23 shots 92/69, led by the skips and their fellow team members, well done everyone.

Mick Featherstone, Robert Ayres, Bob Brown, Mark Ward 24/25

Barry Parker, John Fitzpatrick, Rob Broadhurst, Steve Graham 16/19

Rita Featherstone, Chris Hawting, Effie Laban, Steve Bulled 26/12

Gerda Otto, Robyn Turville, Col Jarvis, Adrian Beales 26/13

Saturday’s Team 2 played Hurstbridge at home and were looking for a win to keep in touch with the leaders.

Healesville had the home ground advantage, so they were expecting to win.

Judy Veermann’s team jumped out of the blocks right from the start and didn’t look back.

Ken Callacher, Karl Tok, Bernard Godde and Judy Veermann put some great bowls down.

Judy Wallace, John McMillan, Sarah Gallacher and John Howard also all bowled well.

In the end Healesville won by 26 shots 71/45.

A great effort by everyone, keep up the good work.

John Allen, Russell Smith, Glenda Graham, Ian Milgate 14/21

Judy Wallace, John McMillan, Sarah Gallacher, John Howard 24/16

Ken Gallacher, Karl Tok, Bernard Godde, Judy Veermann 33/8

Community comp and ‘Ashes’ coming up

By Peter Brennan

Round Two of the midweek competition saw the Yarra Junction Bowling Club (YJBC) head to Healesville optimistic of a good performance away after having had a good preseason practice there.

Two rinks battled neck to neck most of the match with both YJBC rinks eventually winning by 3 points each. Healesville however were too strong on the third rink and jumped ahead from the start of the game building a great score as they went. After the break, an 8 score on one end by Healesville ensured the game went their way overall with the Eagles defeated by 16 shots. It’s still early in the season so time to regroup and concentrate on the next game at home against Lilydale 3.

Round three of the weekend competition was set to be a test, with an away game on a grass green at Mooroolbark in windy conditions. The

Eagles gained an early advantage with some great bowling from the start on two rinks boosting the team’s confidence and determination. Having a break can often change the flow of the game and again proved to be true but the Eagles held on tight and came away with a very rewarding win on 3 rinks to win overall 73 / 110.

A win away and remaining top of the ladder was the aim for the day and the Eagles walked away having achieved a great result and a 20-point advantage on the ladder. This week’s game is against Donvale at home and hopefully, they can continue to build on a great season start. The planned Melbourne Cup Day tournament was cancelled due to insufficient entries but has been quickly replaced by a Yarra Junction vs Warburton Ashes tournament at YJBC. There’s a great friendly rivalry between these two clubs so expect some great bowling and a fun day.

The annual Community Cup competition is back commencing 15 November with a slightly different format to be played over three weeks. The response from community groups has been fantastic with only 2 spaces left. If your group would like to enter a team call Jason on 0411263721. No experience is required and equipment is supplied.

Twilight bowls

By Rodney Bates

As lawn bowls tries to spread greater interest, a number of clubs are experimenting with games outside the traditional 1pm Saturday format.

This week Yarra Glen and Mitchum agreed to a 4pm start on Saturday to give club members and spectators across the region the opportunity to see the best of the region in action. Division 1 played a strong Mitchum lineup, with the visitors winning overall with three rinks up.

Final score 73/98 (2 Points). C. Carswell 22/30; S. Manifold 18/29; Beau Simmons 9/24; Ben Simmons 24/15.

Division 4 Side 2 played at home against Mooroolbark. With the final end in play, Yarra Glen was down overall by two shots, with the rink of Richard Thurkle collecting four shots to win overall by two shots 81/79 (16 Points).

S. Smith 8/22; R. Thurkle 24/19; J. Leather 26/18; A. James 23/20.

Also at home, the Division 6 Side 3 team played Heatherdale, going down in a close encounter by four shots 51/88 (two Points).

Midweek pennant round 2 saw Yarra Glen Division 2 Side playing Warburton away.

It is always a competitive and good natured rivalry, Warby came away with the win 50/80 (two points).

P. Leonard 20/19; A. Thurkle 18/21; A. James 12/41.

Side 2 hosted Heathmont, going down 45/76 (two Points).

L. Baker 19/18; D. McMenaman 19/23; Di Skillern 7/35

Friday Night Game 22 November Yarra Glen is also holding a Division 1 Friday Night game at home against Bundoora on 22 November, starting at 7pm

The club will have a sausage sizzle, and the bar will be open early for all to enjoy the action on the deck overlooking the green. All visitors are welcome.

Three wins for Warburton bowlers on the green

By Garry Lewis

A clean sweep by the Warburton Bowls Club this week highlighted the steady improvement shown across all three Pennant Teams.

The Weekend Warburton 1 team travelled to Ferntree Gully on Saturday, still with a few absences, to a venue which has caused much anguish in the past. One of Victoria’s fastest and widest greens has posed many problems in the past, but a committed and brave performance saw a famous victory achieved at the death.

It was tight all day and windy conditions made bowling tricky. However, a fine performance from Scratcher Neale’s rink and some clutch shots at the end saw the Burras prevail by one shot overall, 77 to 76 over Ferntree Gully 1.

Rink scores were as follows: R. McKail 19/ 22; G. Walsh 16/ 21; C. Neale 27/ 13 and T. Appleton 15/ 20. This victory highlighted the importance of always focussing on the overall big scoreboard despite how individual rinks are going and never giving up. The Burras top side looks forward to their

Graham Wynd warming up for Warburton 2.

(Supplied)

next challenge against Ringwood 1 away this week. The Warburton 2 team overcame a slow start against Eastwood Golf 1 at home to record a confidence-boosting victory, 90 shots to 60. Peter Summers and David Fahy’s rinks both came from a long way back to lead the Burras to an important win and gain some valuable points after a slow start to the season. Every player across all rinks displayed determination to improve from previous efforts.

Rink scores were P. Summers 18/ 13; G. Lewis 25/ 13; D. Fahy 28/ 15 and M. Stoessiger 19/ 19. The Burras also look forward to playing Chirnside Park 2 away this week and continuing their improved performance.

An in-form Warburton 1 Midweek side hosted Yarra Glen 1 last Tuesday and completed an impressive victory. In pleasant conditions and with a fast green, the Burras took an early lead. They continued to kick away as the match progressed to win by 31 shots, 81 to 50.

Rink scores were S. Freestone 19/ 20; G. Walsh 41/ 12 and R. McKail 21/ 18. The Burras look forward to continuing their good form this week against Mooroolbark 2 away on Wednesday due to Cup Day on Tuesday.

Pennant Training continues Thursdays from 4pm at the club. New and beginning players are always encouraged to attend and join in the fun. Coaching is available.

The highly popular Bingo Nights concluded last week. Once again thanks to Club Members Mat Stoessiger and Aimee Dostie for their wonder-

ful and efficient coordination.

The popular Wednesday Night Barefoot Bowls Jack Attack Competition commences this Wednesday 6 November. Teams are encouraged to arrive from 6pm and have a practice rollup before the games begin at 7pm.

The Warburton Bowls Club has received a grant to host a free Digital Skills Workshop on Tuesday 26 November from 5pm to 6pm at the Clubrooms for people who are interested in learning more about Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets). It’s open to the public and geared to community groups or work teams.

Whether you’re just getting started or want to refine your skills, this quick session is a great way to learn something new and connect with the community!

Register by email: grants@warburtonbowls.com. au or call 0491027546 for details.

Social Bowls continues to be played on Mondays from 12 midday with everyone including new and beginning players encouraged to attend. Come along and give Bowls a try!

The Yarra Junction Bowling Club have a number of special events coming up. (File)

Son and Father, Beau and Mark Simmons studying the head at Mitchum. (Supplied)

Eight up one end for Barry Parker, Damian Keys, Russell Smith and Gerry Gommers. (Supplied)

Tough loss and big wins

By David Marshall Wandin 1st XI

The Wandin Senior Team hosted Wonga Park at home for a crucial one-day clash. Winning the toss and electing to bat, the decision paid off thanks to our new opening partnership of Bryce Edwards and Jamie Atkinson. The pair put on a commanding century stand, giving the home side a dream start. Jamie was the first to fall after a blistering knock of 79 off just 77 balls, setting a solid foundation.

Unfortunately, a couple of quick wickets followed, disrupting our momentum. While Ben Galante (18), Taylan Hall (13), and Gordo Gosland (16) chipped in, none could form a lasting partnership with Bryce, who anchored the innings with a well-crafted 71. Wandin finished their 40 overs at 7 for 240—a decent total, but on our high-scoring home ground, it felt like we might be slightly short.

Wonga Park’s innings began with their top order digging in and capitalizing on some dropped catches and erratic bowling. Despite our bowlers’ best efforts, Wonga Park chased down the target with 5 overs to spare, finishing at 6 for 241. Jarrod Dobson (2 wickets) and Taylan Hall (1 wicket) gave us glimmers of hope, but the standout was

sent in to bat after losing the toss—a decision Boronia would soon regret. Openers Ben Warren and Tim Thorne went into full T20 mode, launching an all-out assault on the bowling attack. Tim was the first to fall, having smashed 80 runs, with the score already at a mammoth 189. Shortly after, Ben brought up his maiden century for the Wandin Cricket Club, an incredible 102 runs. Congratulations, Ben—a milestone to remember. The onslaught didn’t stop there. Matt Owens, ever reliable, added a steady 28, and Jamie Oakley took the game to another level with a whirlwind 69* off just a handful of balls. Rod Aitken chipped in with 12*, and Wandin posted an imposing total of 3 for 300.

Our bowlers kept the pressure up from the first over. Defending such a huge score, Wandin never let Boronia settle. Hamish Lamont bowled with precision, taking 1 for 29, while Jason Kneebone grabbed 2 for 21.

Archie Brown, a late call-up, proved his worth with figures of 2 for 19, and Jamie Oakley—trying his hand at off-spin to surprising effect—matched him with 2 for 19. The veteran Dave Marshall, rolled back the years knocking the stumps over three times to finish with an astonishing 3 for 2. A dominant win by the 2s keeps themselves at the top of the ladder. Well done, team.

Lusatia Park welcome new fourth team with two wins

By Garry Nicholls

The Lusatia Park 1st XI played Lilydale away this week and they decided to bat first and Viren struck early to have them 1/4. They then put on a partnership of 82 until Lucas took the wicket of Hempel for 35. Lusatia Park’s bowlers then took another three quick wickets to have them in trouble at 5/91. The only batter to offer any resistance was Smart when Adam Dunn returned to the attack with 5 overs to go and had him caught and bowled for 64 and they were then 6/127. Lusatia Park then finished them off when they ran out of overs to

be 9/145. The bowlers doing the job again, Terry Bennett 3/13 and Lukey Parker 3/8 the main wicket takers.

It was then Lusatia Park’s turn to bat after the break, Mick Nicholls and Dean Worlley getting them off to a great start when Dean fell for 27, to be 1/74 after only 15 overs. The next wicket fell at 80, Mick making a fine 46 falling just short of his half-century. With plenty of overs left Andy and Adam sealed the win at 3/150 in only 24 overs, Andy 34*and Adam 10*, great effort by everyone.

The 2nd XI played Wantirna South at home winning the toss and electing to bat, but lost

This week’s horse talk

By Anita Prowse

Spring is definitely in the air, sunny skies and growing grass all over the Valley.

Tuesday’s weather is looking perfect for Upper Yarra Pony Club’s Cup Day Freshmans at Wesburn Park, entries are on the day and the grand unveiling of the new addition to the clubrooms will finally be happening. Hope to see everyone there, starting at 9.30am, tickets at the clubrooms.

The Yarra Valley Horse Show on Sunday 15 December is quickly approaching. All are very excited about our new Eminent Turnout class with a huge $250 cash prize, and $100 for the runner-up. A reminder this class is Pre-entry only and entries are available on the Event Secretary website.

The exact entry criteria and workout will be posted in the event page on the ‘UPPER YARRA PONY CLUB’ Facebook page hopefully by the end

of the week.

UYPC are also happy to announce the Riders Without Horses program will be participating in this year’s This Girl Can promotion with thanks to Yarra Ranges Council, on the Sunday 1 December Rally.

On Saturday 9 November, Shirley Heights Equestrian Centre has its EA Dressage competition, and the following Friday are hosting Yarra Glen ARC’s second Friday Fun Show-jumping day.

Very disappointing to yet again be receiving reports of abusive dog owners at Wesburn Park. Please report all incidents to the Yarra Ranges Council and if you are worried or concerned about anyone’s safety please dial 000. This really is getting a little out of control and UYPC hope some more respectful attitudes can be attained.

wickets steadily to be 3/50 after 12. Tyson Gaskett joined Mick Dwyer at the crease and put on another 50 until Tyson fell for a very good 33 and then Lusatia Park were 4/100 after 21. Morgs joined Mick at the crease who was continuing to score runs still and they put on a brilliant partnership of 103 when unfortunately Mick fell just short of a century for 94.

Morgs went just 2 runs later for a grinding 31. By then the job had been done and after the 40 overs finishing with a great score of 9/217. Wantirna South went in to bat and were scoring steadily but Lusatia Park’s bowlers were also taking wickets and they were 5/81 after 24.

The run task proved to be too much in the end and Lusatia Park ended up getting them all out for 128. Main wicket takers Stephen Morgan 3/23 from 8 and Paul Broussard 2/12 off 6, great effort team.

The 3rd XI and women had the week off due to Cup weekend.

Next week, Lusatia Park are very excited to be adding our fourth team to the men’s competition.

If there is anyone keen for a game of cricket be sure to contact the club at lusatiaparkcc@ gmail.com

This week’s Horse Talk. (Supplied)

Lusatia Park’s 2nd XI leaving the ground in their strong win over Wantirna South.

The 2nd XI in action. (Supplied)

Rory Vallence, who bowled a tight spell, taking 2 for 35 off 8 overs. It was a tough day in the field, but there were moments of brilliance to build on.

Wandin 2nd XI With a few team changes due to the long weekend, Wandin 2nd XI travelled to Boronia and was

Wandin Cricket Club results. (File)

Healesville perform well

By Josh Handasyde, Michael Davern, Matt ilkinson and Chris Handasyde

U12-3 Healesville 67 defeated by Bayswater Park 4/95

Arthur Coleman 14*, Ryder Hudson 13, Kael Senti 2/10

U12-7 Healesville 4/101 defeated Mt Evelyn 5/91

U14-3 Healesville 3/150 defeated Montrose 6/78

With a bounce back match required after a disappointing loss to Wonga Park, the team was sent into the field by Montrose with Summer Caldicott picking up the first wicket in the second over.

With balls landing agonisingly short of fielders and in gaps with dropped catches a theme for the day, the bloods couldn’t quite get the breakthroughs but Montrose were struggling to punish the bloods by putting it on the scoreboard.

Mika Kerst ruing the four dropped chances off his bowling quoting “I should be winning the league right now”.

Louis Keath got on a hat trick but failed to convert with the hat trick ball going for a boundary.

The Bloods would eventually restrict Montrose to 6/78, a very gettable target.

Harry Duff and Harry Thomas would open for Healesville with Thomas unfortunately hitting one straight to cover to be removed for a duck.

Duff would make a solid 20* with Max Ferris making a lustful 25* and loved every second of it.

Raff Morcombe would smash 38* to see the bloods over the line, with both teams agreeing to continue, James Howden would knock up 24 off 16 and Mika Kerst and Aeden Senti seeing the game off finishing on 14 and 10 not out respectively.

A good bounce back win for the team and hoping to continue the form.

U14-7 Healesville 4/168 defeated

Ainslie Park 4/130

Sam Hyndman 36* and 1/6, Taylor Caldicott 29* and 1/8, Tully Ellis 19, Kael Senti 14*, Monty Forbes 10* and 1/3

U16-4 Healesville 6/99 defeated by Hoddles Creek 4/165

Cooper Bell 31* and 2/32, Sam Keath 16, Sam Drummond 12* 1st XI Healesville 4/205 defeated Templeton 4/204

On the road against Templeton in what felt like a must win match for the team looking to get off the 0-2 canvas.

Losing the toss and being sent into the field, it was slow going early before Josh Handasyde got the first breakthrough taking a blinder off his own bowling to give the bloods their first.

Templeton would then get on top of the boys with wickets hard to come by with Templeton batting well finishing up on 204.

A good run chase required and the boys fired up Handasyde and Zinghini went about their work before Josh mistimed one to mid off.

Max Minney and Zinghini would then bat well

before Minney was dismissed for 37.

With the runs flowing the bloods started feeling increasingly confident with the evergreen Ash Hamer doing his thing and the tiring Nick Zinghini making runs at ease.

‘Zinger’ would eventually be caught on 82 with 24 runs required, Hamer would soon follow for a well made 40.

Tom Handasyde at the non strikers end watched Luke Chandler smash two boundaries in three balls to give Healesville the win with 14 balls to spare.

The win puts out season back on track with Lilydale at home the next match in their fixture. 2nd XI Healesville 6/162 defeated Lilydale 161 This week on a fine Saturday for cricket the 2XI took on Lilydale at the complex.

Lilydale won the toss and elected to bat first.

Again this week openers Beau Hawkins (2/24) and Max Wallace (3/41) struck early with Beau cartwheeling the stumps and also snicking one to Harry for a caught behind and Max trapping one plumb LBW all in the first six overs.

At 3/54, we were off to a good start but Lilydale developed a bit of a partnership and started getting a few runs on the board until some good line and length bowling from Jack Drummond (1/24) and Brodie Grace (1/25) brought the run rate right back down with Jack breaking the partnership with a caught and bowled that he looked for any body else to take took a nice catch himself and Brodie striking two balls after drinks with the score now on 5/100 at 20 overs we were in a good position.

Dylan Edwards (3/22) had a turn with the ball again striking early in his second over and Max Wallace coming on for a second spell getting a wicket on the first ball and both bowlers taking the last four wickets in quick succession bowling Lilydale out for 161.

With the total being set, Kris Andersen (12) and

Mark Powell (16) opened up the batting looking comfortable at the crease and look to be scoring runs with ease when Kris was trapped in front of the stumps for LBW.

There was a few quick wickets lost in Max Wallace (4), Mark Powell (16) and Michael Davern (15) when Riley Cameron (39) and Denzel Parsens (26*) steadied the ship for us with some smart batting to get us back on track until Riley unfortunately chopped one back onto himself and onto the stump leaving us 4/129 in the 26th over.

With 33 runs left to win and losing another wicket, Denzel finished off not out with Beau Hawkins (8*) hitting the winning runs in the 32nd over giving us the win by four wickets. 3rd XI Healesville 6/251 defeated North Ringwood 7/210

Healesville 3XI hosted North Ringwood this week in what was a run fest for the top of the ladder clash Healesville won the toss and decided to bat, Grant Braden continued his emphatic form with his second ton in as many weeks with a blistering 128 off only 68 balls.

With massive contributions from Sam Keath 50*, Ben Mackey 18 and Cooper Bell 15*, the Bloods posted 251 for the bulls to try and chase down Our bowlers battled all day with the lightning quick outfield, Sam Drummond was everywhere in the field as well as bowling six great over (2 for 28) North Ringwood went down swinging posting a massive total of 7 for 210.

Healesville winning by 41 runs 4th XI - No game over Melb Cup Weekend 5th XI - Starts its season on Saturday 9 November - this is a 10 game competition (all one day games) - playing six games before Christmas, have January off, then four games in February. Please come down to Queens Park for training on Thursday night 5.30pm to 7pm if you are interested or contact Chris Handasyde 0422 231 260.

Yarra Glen Cricket teams getting stronger each week

By Travis Gloury

Under 14

• Yarra Glen/ Kilsyth 7/179

• Mt Evelyn 3/142

An undermanned Yarra Glen/Kilsyth Under 14 team defeated Mount Evelyn in a brilliant run chase on Saturday morning.

Mount Evelyn won the toss and elected to bat with a heavy dew on the outfield making the ball slippery to handle.

However, our boys handled these conditions very well with Lawson Appleton taking a blinder in the covers.

Set a target of 143 to win, the team didn’t start well with its two openers being run out within the first four overs.

Zavier Thwaites was looking good at the top of the innings before he skied the ball back to the bowler, only to be run out after the bowler dropped the catch.

Skipper Lawson Appleton batted at number three and took it up to the bowlers from the first ball with tremendous stroke play to finish with 34 retired.

Lower order batsman Mitch Ammerlaan made a beautifully played 14 retired off his 25 balls to see the team home in an important sixth wicket partnership.

Ben Holland then came in at the end and whacked a boundary before the innings was closed.

Under 16 – One day game 25 overs CC

• Yarra Glen 6/114

• Mt Evelyn 5/113

This week, Yarra Glen U16 boys took on Mount Evelyn in a one-day game, needing a win to stay in touch with finals contenders after dropping our last two games.

After losing the toss and being sent in to bat on a damp and dewy outfield, the team compiled a total of 6/114 off our 25 overs.

Sam Gloury (35 n.o) continued his good form and is yet to be dismissed in U16 cricket this year.

Sam was well supported by Spencer Boers (15 n.o) and Dylan Shambrook (11 n.o) while Sam Holland (9) and Sam O’Callaghan (7) both batted well before losing their wickets in the quest for quick runs at the end.

In reply, Spencer Boers (1/27) took a wicket

in the third over but Mount Evelyn continued to score quickly moving to 1/62 in the 14th over before wickets to Sam Holland (2/27) and Sam O’Callaghan (1/7) slowed the scoring rate in what was a good fight back by Yarra Glen boys.

Ultimately, the game came down to the last over with Mount Evelyn needing 12 runs to snatch victory.

After scoring six off the first three balls of the over, Sam Holland took his second wicket, followed by a run out the following ball.

The game therefore came down to the final ball, Mt Evelyn needing six to win with their best batsmen on strike.

Sam Holland held his nerve however creating a chance, the batsmen skying the ball deep into the outfield.

While the catch wasn’t taken, Charlie Watts was able to knock the ball down ensuring only four runs were scored, meaning we were victorious by a single run.

A great victory by Yarra Glen boys in a nail biting game and a win which keeps them in touch with the top four.

U16 will have the bye next week.

Senior 1st XI V’s East Ringwood 3rd XI – One Day game 40 overs CC

• Yarra Glen 9/211 CC

• East Ringwood 3rd XI all out 181 (37.4 overs)

Yarra Glen 1st XI were sent in to bat on a small ground with a slow outfield.

Phil Cowan got the innings off to a quick start after an eventful first over with good support

from Noah Evans (17) before one got through Noah’s defences in the eighth over at 1/46.

Shortly after, Phil (31) was judged LBW attempting his sixth boundary of the innings when Tony Biddiscombe joined Travis Gloury at crease at 2/54 in the 10th over.

The pair batted together for the next 10 overs in a 63 run partnership before Tony was dismissed, caught at first slip from the first ball after the drinks break at the 20 over mark for 15.

Liam Senti (15) and Travis put on 31 runs for the fourth wicket before Liam was caught in the 28th over at 4/148.

Sam Gloury enjoyed some valuable 1st XI experience batting at number six in a 26 run partnership with Travis before one got through his defences at 5/174 in the 34th over with Travis still at the crease on 76.

Brad Willmore, Blake Davey, Tim Lilley and Matt Donnelly all spent time at the crease in the final six overs with quick runs the objective and fortune on our side with some catches going down to finish 9/211 after the allotted 40 overs with Travis reaching 100 not out in the final over.

Phil Cowan picked up our first wicket early in the second over from a Matt Donnelly catch at second slip.

Senior 1st XI’s next breakthrough wouldn’t come for another 14 overs as the opposition batsman began to assert themselves on the game with a combination of some good fortune and smart batting.

Jordan Bain got one through the defences of

their key number three batsman who was looking dangerous, in the 16th over at 2/74.

In the next five overs, we soon had the opposition 5/81 thanks to a terrific bowling partnership from Jordan Bain and Tony Biddiscombe with another wicket bowled from Jordan and two wickets from leg spinner Tony Biddiscombe with a caught and bowled and a terrific diving catch at short cover from Blake Davey as both bowlers continued to tighten the screws with runs hard to come by.

A catch from Jordan Bain at deep long off gave Tony his third wicket at 6/96.

The opposition managed to put together a 44 run partnership for the seventh wicket to keep in touch with nine overs remaining before Sam Gloury took a catch at short mid wicket to give Tony his fouth wicket, with their opening batsman still at the crease on 60.

Some fine fielding from our wicket keeper Liam Senti saw the run out of their opener moments later at 8/142.

The tail end batsman continued to attack our bowling and remained in the hunt with some clean striking before an excellent run out from the athletic Phil Cowan in the deep and a nice outfield catch at long on from Tony Biddiscombe to seal the game with East Ringwood falling 30 runs short, all out for 181 with 14 balls remaining. Tony Biddiscombe was the major wicket taker, claiming figures of 4/38 of eight overs with Jordan Bain returning game changing figures of 2/14 off five overs with two key wickets.

Liam Senti also returned outstanding figures without luck, conceding only 16 runs off his five overs with Matt Donnelly also only conceding nine runs from his last four overs along with Tim Lilley who bowled particularly well under pressure at the end, ensuring runs were hard to come by.

Well done to Yarra Glen 1st XI on a well deserved victory with a good all round solid team performance!

Senior 2nd XI V’s St. Andrews 6th XI

• One day game – 36 overs CC

• St. Andrews 7/179 CC

• Hunter Grenfell 3/26 off 6 overs

• Will Duff 2/21 off 6 overs

• Yarra Glen 7/181 34.2 overs

• Shane Fordham 104 (from 101 balls, 14 fours and 3 sixes)

(Unsplash)

Healesville 1st XI team from the weekend. (Supplied)