Mail - Upper Yarra Star Mail - 21st January 2025

Dan Sanders takes out Dakar Rally victory

Three Bridges’ Daniel Sanders has secured his first-ever victory in the 2025 edition of the Dakar Rally, becoming only the second Australian to win the race.

Sanders established a strong lead early with three consecutive stage wins and it was one he never relinquished, crossing the finish line with a comfortable eight minute and 50 second lead over second-placed Spaniard Tosha Schareina.

The win puts Sanders in the box seat in the 2025 World Rally-Raid Championship, with events still to come in Abu Dhabi, South Africa, Portugal and Morocco.

The Upper Yarra local is in fine form too, having taken out the last event of the 2024 edition of the championships, the Rallye Du Maroc.

The win is a redemption and opportunity to exercise his Dakar demons for Sanders, having also seen a promising start to the 2022 Dakar Rally lost after he crashed out seven days into the race with his bike unrideable and a nasty fractured elbow to nurse back to health.

He had finished fourth in his rookie rally in 2021, seventh in 2023 and eighth in 2024.

Turn to page 33 for more

Strategy locked in

By Dongyun Kwon

The federal government has released the National Autism Strategy and an associated Action Plan for the first time at the commonwealth level. The strategy and the action plan aim to improve inclusion, support and life outcomes for all autistic Australians, focusing on four key outcome areas; social inclusion, economic inclu-

sion, diagnosis, services and supports, and health and mental health.

The seven-year strategy was developed with the guidance of the National Autism Strategy Oversight Council and involved extensive consultation with autistic people, their families and carers, and the broader autism and disability sectors, researchers and experts.

Federal social services minister Amanda Rish-

worth said the new strategy reflects the government’s vision for a more inclusive Australia where all people with disability are supported to participate in all spheres of life.

“Our Labor Government is committed to improving the lives of the almost 300,000 autistic people living in Australia and it’s why we have delivered the first National Autism Strategy,” minister Rishworth said.

“Addressing the barriers autistic people face in areas like education, employment and diagnosis is long overdue and we are proud to deliver a strategy that will change lives for the better.

“This is not a strategy that has been done in isolation. It has been built in consultation and collaboration with autistic people living in Australia.”

Turn to page 5 for more

Triumphant. (Kin Marcin/Red Bull Content Pool)

Take care in the water

By

Victoria’s summer has been blessed with a string of warm weather days encouraging beach and river attendance but with that comes an increased risk of drownings and rescues.

And while Yarra Ranges pools have recorded an uptake in swimming lesson attendance, Royal Life Saving estimated in October that more than 40 per cent of children don’t meet the national benchmark for swimming and water safety.

Just days into the new year, Life Saving Victoria recorded its busiest day, with lifeguards completing 145 rescues in 24 hours, most occurring on Saturday 4 January after temperatures reached the high 30s.

“We don’t remember a day when we’ve been that busy and that many Victorians have needed our help,” Life Saving Victoria state agency commander Kane Treloar told Guardian Australia.

The tragic death of an eight-year-old boy in the Mitchell River near Cobbannah in East Gippsland was also a reminder of the dangers not only at the beach but in inland waters.

In the Yarra Ranges, with the proximity to the Yarra River from Warburton to Warrandyte, both areas which have recorded fatalities, inland water safety and awareness is critical for children and adults.

One school-based program aimed at introducing primary-aged students to rivers and lakes and their unique conditions through kayaking has been operating for 20 years.

School Sports Victoria Yarra Division Officer and Upper Yarra Primary Schools Sports Officer Andrew Devisser said while the program has an element of fun and competition, it’s mostly an introduction to inland water safety.

“It’s about what’s under the surface that you can’t see. It might not have been there the day before but it might be there today. Logs and sticks float underwater. So a lot of it we are just making sure they’re aware, especially before they jump into a river,” he said.

“There’s also different positions when they fall out of a pipe. What’s the safest position to be in if you’re carried down by a current, the sort of stuff you hear all the time but we just put it into practice.”

Because of the ease in accessing the Yarra River for recreational use, particularly in Warburton, Mr Devisser said it’s important to trigger questions in kids’ minds before they enter the water.

“Most kids, 95 per cent of kids, are going to take away some knowledge about ‘I’m here in the river, what do I think of first before I get in? And what do I check for first before I start floating down and diving in off the side’,” Mr Devisser said.

In 2024, 11 per cent of drowning deaths occurred in the age group of 15 to 24, with the beach being the location of 36 per cent of these, followed closely by rivers and creeks on 31 per cent.

Concerningly the “drowning rates increase ten-fold from age 10 to age 20, likely due to in-

creases in risk taking, and a lack of swimming, water safety and lifesaving skills across youth and young adult populations” the Royal Life Saving website reads.

There are three national benchmarks set for children to reach at the age of six, 12 and 17-years-old.

By 12-year-old, a child should be able to swim 50 metres continuously; float, scull or tread water for two minutes; and perform a survival sequence wearing light clothing.

This increases to continuously swimming 400 metres; float, scull or tread water for five minutes; and perform a survival sequence wearing heavy clothing by 17-years-old.

“Many young adults are quite simply being left unprepared for the dangers they may encounter in and around the water as they grow older. Without immediate action to address this skills gap, more lives could certainly be at risk,” Royal Life Saving chief executive officer Justin Scarr said.

A spokesperson from Belgravia Leisure, the operator of all pools in the Yarra Ranges, said “parents should recognise and prioritise swimming lessons as an essential life skill for (their) children”.

“Continued swimming lessons are crucial for reinforcing water safety skills, improving technique and building confidence, ensuring individuals of all ages remain prepared and capable in potentially hazardous water situations, such as rivers, lakes, ocean and at home,” they said.

“The key lessons that students benefit from in a learn to swim class are certainly water safety skills and knowledge, technique for strokes both competitive and survival as well as self-preservation skills such as floating.

“Additionally, lessons include vital information such as safety signage and the role of the lifeguard.”

In the period from December 2020 to March 2024, the spokesperson said “parents embraced learn to swim lessons post-pandemic”, seeing GoSwim enrolments rise 53 per cent at Monbulk Aquatic Centre and 38 per cent at Yarra Centre.

“Swimming isn’t just a fun activity—it’s a critical safety skill that can save a life. Drowning is preventable, and by ensuring that your child learns how to swim, you’re giving them the tools to stay safe around water,” the spokesperson said.

Concern over the lack of access to swimming lessons and pools in the urban parts of the Yarra Ranges since the closure of the Kilsyth Centenary Pool in March 2023 has been expressed deeply by petitioners and advocates of Rebuild Our Kilsyth Pool.

Janis Floyd, one of the lead petitioners to rebuild the pool, said at a Yarra Ranges Council meeting in May 2024 that “we lose many things” through the closure of the pool which benefit swim competency in all age groups.

“We lose the baby swim school, the primary school learn to swim and water safety, competition swimming, disability, autism and cultural swimming… school carnivals and fundraising events…work experience and teen jobs, aqua aerobics and finally aged care and

dementia swim,” she said.

“The full spectrum of all these are significant to our health and wellbeing for the future.”

The Belgravia Leisure spokesperson said however, that after the closure staff were redeployed to ensure the Kilsyth Swim School students could continue lessons elsewhere.

“All students were offered the options of Jack Hort Pool, Yarra Centre, Monbulk Aquatic Centre and Knox Leisureworks,” they said.

“We also contacted every school utilising Kilsyth Centenary Pool to continue the schools swimming program at these alternate venues.

“Our GoSwim program is structured so that we always have room for more students, so there was never a waitlist for a place for any Kilsyth swim school students to continue at alternate venues.”

Ms Floyd said for many families though, travelling to some of these pools further away is not ideal and may be a barrier to getting their child lessons.

While most schools are subsidised by the State Government to conduct school swimming programs, Mr Devisser said it’s unusual for schools to run a kayaking program, especially for Grade 5 and 6 students.

“We’d be one of the few areas, few districts in the state, (maybe) the only district in the state that actually runs a kayaking program for primary kids, a lot of the secondaries will do their rafting and that down the Yarra especially now that we’ve got a couple of hire places in Warby,” he said.

“The Alpine School in Don Valley, they do a fair bit of kayaking and canoeing as well now.

But we’re sort of unique in the primary space, there wouldn’t be too many primary schools that do what we do.”

Mr Devisser said schools engaged in the kayaking program stretch from Coldstream to Toolangi, Silvan to Warburton, as well as Lilydale and Montrose.

With the growing push for people to enjoy the region and get outdoors, Mr Devisser said the quality of the river compared to 15 years ago has improved immensely, making it a great summer destination for families but the message of safety is still key.

“There’s some great spots on the river they can access and they’re down there, paddling with their families and it’s good to see, we want them to use our local resources as well as just giving them general confidence in things that years ago, kids wouldn’t have had the opportunity to do.

“I reckon a lot of these kids will be going down there with their bikes, going for a ride and there’ll be hot days, they’ll jump in the water so the more we can make them aware, the better.”

The spokesperson from Belgravia said similarly, that swimming lessons encourage the safe use of natural bodies of water.

“Investing in swimming lessons now means giving your child the ability to protect themselves and others in and around water, while also ensuring they can safely enjoy the wonderful aquatic experiences our environment provides. It’s one of the most valuable gifts you can give them.”

The Yarra River rapids at Warburton are a popular destination for kayakers but they can be dangerous for people who may not know the river. (Rob Carew: 453900)

Mikayla Van Loon

Former Yering Primary School student Jordan taking part in the river

Don’t ignore permit

By Callum Ludwig

Despite the temperature hovering around 30 degrees and the Fire Danger Period remaining well and truly in force, CFA crews in the Upper Yarra attended a pair of disappointing callouts on Tuesday 14 January.

CFA crews were notified of two separate illegal burn-offs in Seville East and Warburton in the morning.

District 13 Assistant Chief Fire Officer David Renkin said both fires were promptly extinguished.

“This serves as a timely reminder that burning off during the Fire Danger Period (FDP) is prohibited without a permit due to the height-

ened fire risk,” he said.

“Permits can be obtained at firepermits.vic. gov.au or through your Municipal Fire Prevention Officer or CFA District Office,”

“Lighting an illegal fire can result in fines exceeding $21,800 and/or up to 12 months imprisonment. For more information, visit cfa.vic.gov. au/can.”

The Seville East burn-off was called in at about 8.20am on the corner of Sunnyside Drive and the Warburton Highway and the Warburton incident occurred at about 10.40am on Lincoln Road.

The Fire Danger Period for the Yarra Ranges began on Monday 23 December and unless residents gain a permit from CFA or a municipal fire

prevention officer, no open air fires can be lit.

Those who do obtain a permit must adhere to its conditions, must have a person in attendance at all times while the fire is alight, have the capacity and means to extinguish the fire if needed and make sure the fire is completely extinguished before the person leaves. These measures are also encouraged anytime a burn-off is conducted, as well as register a burn-off online at firepermits.vic.gov.au, by calling 1800 668 511 or by filling out a Burn Off Notification Form and emailing it to burnoffs@esta.vic.gov.au.

If you have any green waste to dispose of once the Fire Danger Period is in place, please do so by placing it in your FOGO bin or making the most of a Bundled Branches collection.

IN BRIEF

Police seeking Terminus Hotel burglar Police are seeking to locate a person believed to be involved in a Burglary at the Terminus Hotel in Healesville just after midnight on 18 December 2024.

The person is described as approximately 180cm tall and wearing a black Nike hooded jumper, black face mask, black pants, black shoes and carrying a black sports bag.

If you have any information relating to this incident or the identity of this person, please contact Detective Leading Senior Constable David Price at the Yarra Ranges Crime Investigation Unit on 9739 2401 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Nine arrested after factory filled with stolen goods located

A Badger Creek man and a Mooroolbark woman were arrested alongside seven other counterparts after being located at a factory allegedly containing a bounty of stolen goods.

Police officers from Knox and Rowville were patrolling the area when reports of suspicious activity at a factory on Lewis Road in Wantirna South on 10 January were made.

An allegedly stolen Renault van was driven through a boundary fence before being located abandoned in Ringwood East.

Seven people inside the factory were swiftly arrested.

Police including detectives from Knox Crime Investigation Unit located over 150 allegedly stolen items and other items including a VF Commodore sedan, a Ford Falcon utility, multiple power tools, drugs including crystal methamphetamine, cannabis and GHB, a handgun and multiple laptops, tablets and mobile phones.

An eighth suspect was arrested after turning up to the factory while officers were on-site.

A 35-year-old Craigieburn man, a 31-year-old Wallan man, a 27-year-old Oakleigh South man, a 34-year-old man of no fixed address, a 23-yearold Deniliquin man, a 28-year-old Badger Creek man and a 23-year-old Mooroolbark woman and a 20-year-old Rowville woman were interviewed and released from custody pending further enquiries.

The driver of the allegedly stolen Renault van was arrested on 14 January by Moorabbin Crime Investigation Unit detectives.

A 23-year-old Clayton man was charged with reckless exposure of police officer to risk by driving, three counts of theft of motor vehicle, criminal damage and driving whilst disqualified.

He was remanded in custody to appear at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on 21 January.

Telstra’s mobile network upgrades in Gruyere

Telstra will do essential mobile network upgrades in Gruyere over seven days from Monday 20 January.

Coverage is likely to be impacted.

Landlines, wi-fi calling and other services will still work.

More info: tel.st/4GXmsg

War medals stolen from Woori Yallock Yarra Ranges detectives are appealing for public information regarding a burglary that occurred in Woori Yallock in late 2024.

Between 26 and 31 December 2024, offenders have entered a home in Carroll Street, Woori Yallock and among the items stolen were the victim’s war medals.

AnyonewithinformationisurgedtocontactYarra Ranges CIU on 97392400 or Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

Reference 240533063

Find out what the Bible says.

“Hope for a Hopeless

Yarra Valley Christadelphians PO Box 516 YARRA GLEN 3775 Email: yvc.vic@gmail.com

CFA responded to two illegal burn-offs in the Upper Yarra on Tuesday 14 January. (File)

Angliss ICU closure shock

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Community members and hospital staff are staggering after the announcement that the Upper Ferntree Gully’s Angliss Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) will close later this year - the decision, driven by ongoing construction works at the hospital, has sparked serious concerns about the impact on patient care, hospital operations, and the local community.

Ann-MarieCaspanello,oneofthefirstpatients to use the ICU when it opened in 2018, shared her shock and disappointment over the closure.

In November 2018, Ms Caspanello was rushed to Angliss Hospital after a severe asthma attack, where she spent two weeks in the ICU, including seven days in an induced coma.

For Ms Caspanello and her family, the ICU’s proximity to their home in Rowville was a crucial factor in her recovery.

“Being so close to home was a real blessing for my family,” she said.

She said it allowed her husband and young daughter to visit easily and offer emotional support during her recovery.

Had she been transferred to a hospital farther away, she believes the strain on her family and her own recovery would have been far greater.

Her husband, Patrick Benko, expressed his concern about the growing population in the area and the increasing need for local healthcare services.

“The area is growing with more townhouses being built, and the need for an ICU will only increase,” he said.

He questioned why such a crucial facility would be closed, especially after only six years of service.

“It’s needed more than ever, especially with the added pressures from Covid-19,” Mr Benko said.

Inside the hospital, staff are also reeling from the announcement.

A nurse, who wished to remain anonymous, said the closure was communicated to staff in early January 2025.

The reason given was that ongoing construction would create dust and vibration, making it difficult for the ICU to remain operational.

Prior to the closure announcement, staff had been told that only one set of lifts on the floor would be closed to accommodate the new building, but the situation changed unexpectedly.

The nurse described the closure as devastating, especially for the ICU team, who have worked tirelessly to provide high-quality, critical care for patients over the past six years.

Staff are also worried about the impact on other hospital departments.

“The care we currently deliver cannot be replicated by the skeletal cover proposed,” the nurse said.

With ICU staff being redeployed to Box Hill ICU, the hospital’s Emergency Department (ED) will bear the brunt of the additional pressure, further exacerbating existing staffing shortages.

The nurse expressed concerns about the lack of support for obstetrics, general ward patients, and the theatre complex, all of which rely on the ICU for critical care.

The change could result in delays for patients needing intensive care, particularly as the state’s retrieval services are already stretched thin.

One of the biggest fears is patients will face life-threatening delays due to the closure.

“Patients will have to be transported to other hospitals for ICU care, which could take precious time,” the nurse said.

The added strain on transport services, already busy covering the whole of Victoria, will make timely access to critical care more difficult.

With the closure, the Liaison team, which provides critical support for deteriorating patients throughout the hospital, will also be withdrawn.

This will place even more stress on ward nurses, who will have to manage the sickest patients without the specialist support they currently receive.

The nurse said the community deserves better, particularly given the substantial public funding that went into the ICU’s construction just six years ago.

“Would you want to risk your life, or that of a family member, knowing that the ICU might not be available when you need it?” the nurse said.

The closure has left ICU staff facing an uncertain future.

Many nurses have completed postgraduate qualifications in critical care, and now they are left wondering whether they will have jobs in the future.

Senior staff members, in particular, are unsure where they will be redeployed or whether they will continue to work in an ICU setting at all.

The lack of transparency from Eastern Health,

which governs the hospital, has added to the anxiety.

Eastern Health’s spokesperson said managing a project of this nature, the safety of staff, patients and community remains of upmost importance.

“The next stage of the Eastern Health Angliss development project is underway and we are looking forward to its completion in mid 2026,“ the spokesperson said.

“During construction, access to the ICU is inhibited. The practical solution to treat critically unwell patients includes treating all those suitable at the Intensive Care facilities at our Box Hill and Maroondah campuses.“

“A new model of care has been developed to ensure patient care will not be compromised.“

Locals, including Ms Caspanello and her family, are frustrated by the lack of communication about the decision and the future of healthcare services in the region.

“If it wasn’t for the ICU being so close, I don’t think I would have recovered as well as I did,” Ms Caspanello said.

Mr Benko is equally concerned, he said, “the population in this area is growing, and the need for an ICU will only increase. It just doesn’t make sense to close it now.”

Staff at the hospital are also disappointed by the lack of support or acknowledgment from the executive team.

“We all love our unit, and we believe in delivering high-standard, researched-based care,” the

nurse said.

“It’s hard to understand why they would close something that’s been so vital to the community.”

Aaron Violi MP, Federal Member for Casey said he’s deeply concerned about the imminent closure of the Intensive Care Unit at Angliss Hospital in Upper Ferntree Gully.

“The added pressure on Maroondah Hospital and Box Hill Hospital will undoubtedly worsen the already critical situation for the health and wellbeing of our seriously ill or injured residents,” Mr Violi said.

“I’m calling on the Victorian Labor Government to guarantee the ICU will reopen with the new expansion of Angliss Hospital scheduled for mid-2026.”

“The Yarra Ranges has no ICU or emergency department. Closing the Angliss ICU now means a 45-minute to one-hour commute to Maroondah or Box Hill for life-saving care.”

“Our community deserves to know if this closure is only temporary. We need clarity and assurance.”

As the closure date looms, both staff and community members are urging Eastern Health to reconsider the decision, stressing that closing the ICU will have serious consequences for patient care and the region’s healthcare system.

For now, the community remains uncertain about what the future holds, but there’s a growing call for action to ensure that critical care remains available when it’s needed most.

The closure of the ICU raises concerns over delays in critical care and the future of local healthcare services. (264648)

Help for autistic community

By Dongyun Kwon

The federal government has released the National Autism Strategy and an associated Action Plan for the first time at the commonwealth level.

The strategy and the action plan aim to improve inclusion, support and life outcomes for all autistic Australians, focusing on four key outcome areas; social inclusion, economic inclusion, diagnosis, services and supports, and health and mental health.

Different Journeys co-founder and chief executive officer Mel Spencer OAM said she welcomed the unified approach to the National Autism Strategy because each state currently has different processes and rules, which makes it confusing for the autistic community.

“A nationally consistent approach will help us all understand what supports are available, how to access and why the need is important,” she said.

“It will also help us bring to the forefront more of the same challenges many of us are experiencing in isolation. Nationally, this will make our voices stronger.”

Different Journeys provides peer support and social connection for the autistic and unpaid carer communities based in Outer East.

It’s been nine years since Different Journeys started its journey to support people with autism and their families.

“I am autistic and ADHD and am a parent and a carer for my three autistic children who also have complex mental health challenges,” the co-founder said.

“We started it because we were not receiving the services we needed for our own children, so we decided to create something.”

Ms Spencer said there are many challenges that are often not talked about such as finding support and navigating complicated service systems to access that.

“Autism is a whole life condition; we are across all life spans and access to community, but people are often putting us in the disability sector, and there is much work to be done in the intersectionality and comorbidity space, particularly autism and mental health,” she said.

“We work with over 10,000 families in Victoria at a grassroots level but have recently had to cut our services because of funding cuts. Finding funding for our services continues to be a challenge.

“96 per cent of our staff are either autistic or carers of autistic individuals. Not only do we have lived experience but also knowledge and experience about how to access support and services.

“For many, even just getting through the education system can be so traumatic.”

The first action plan is backed by $42.3 million in funding and outlines the practical steps the federal government will take to achieve the vision and outcomes of the strategy over the next two years.

One of the key investments in the first action plan is going towards peer support as the government has promised to invest $19.9 million over four years for a peer support program to provide lived-experience knowledge, empathy and culturally tailored advice for autistic people in groups they resonate with.

Ms Spencer said having peer support is im-

portant in supporting autistic and unpaid carer communities.

“The lived experience is so powerful as often if you are trying to navigate this space, someone that has walked the journey beforehand is essential. You can feel so alone and isolated but finding someone else who can share and understand your journey makes you feel that little bit less alone,” she said.

“We need to ensure with peer support that not only do we have lived experience, but we also know how to access and support others with the complicated service systems, because we also have lived it.

“There is a lot of talk about lived experience/ peer support but you need to be able to know how to access support and services. It’s not enough just to say ’I’m autistic’. No one person is the same and we need to ensure that many voices are heard.”

Other than investing for a peer sport program, the first phase of the strategy also aims to enhance community understanding, awareness and acceptance of autism through $915,000 over two years for new awareness and education initiatives; to improve the diagnosis process through $445,000 in 2025-26 for resources to support autistic people and their families with pre- and post-diagnosis information; to boost pathways to meaningful employment through $915,000 over two years to improve employment opportunities

and support for autistic people; to invest $12.2 million over five years for a dedicated knowledge translation body, which will ensure academic research into neurodiversity informs and improves the policies and services impacting autistic people’s lives day to day; to invest $3.7 million over two years to work with autistic people and the autism community to evaluate existing programs aiming to improve their lives, to identify what works, where there are gaps and opportunities for improvement; to identify ways to improve Australian Government services, supports, information and the safety and welfare of autistic people; and to invest $2.8 million over four years for a comprehensive epidemiological study to identify the true prevalence of autism in Australia, which will underpin future policy development.

The Different Journeys co-founder said she would like to see investment in supporting families through the National Autism Strategy.

“I think education, employment, diagnosis and mental health are great topics, but we also need to bring families on the journey with us. Often the families are just as lost in trying to support the autistic individual,” Ms Spencer said.

“I would like to see investment in supporting families to support the autistic individual. This is what Different Journeys does.

“We support the family which in turn supports the autistic individual and allows every member to thrive. Together we have an opportunity to

make important changes that can support everyone in the chain.”

The seven-year strategy was developed with the guidance of the National Autism Strategy Oversight Council and involved extensive consultation with autistic people, their families and carers, and the broader autism and disability sectors, researchers and experts.

Federal social services minister Amanda Rishworth said the new strategy reflects the government’s vision for a more inclusive Australia where all people with disability are supported to participate in all spheres of life.

“Our Labor Government is committed to improving the lives of the almost 300,000 autistic people living in Australia and it’s why we have delivered the first National Autism Strategy,” minister Rishworth said.

“Addressing the barriers autistic people face in areas like education, employment and diagnosis is long overdue and we are proud to deliver a strategy that will change lives for the better.

“This is not a strategy that has been done in isolation. It has been built in consultation and collaboration with autistic people living in Australia.

“Working with autistic people will remain key as we work to implement the goals of the strategy and the associated action plan – ensuring we meet the diverse needs of autistic people in Australia.”

Different Journeys provides peer support and social connection for the autistic and unpaid carer communities. (Mikayla Van Loon)

Ranges’ roos get advocate

By Callum Ludwig

Woori Yallock resident and former President of the Australian Wildlife Protection Council Peter Preuss is passionate about protecting kangaroos in the Yarra Ranges and is inviting members of the community to join him in advocating for the much-loved marsupials.

Mr Preuss is holding regular ‘Walk and Talk’ events at the Yarra Valley Living Centre (55 Rayner Court, Yarra Junction) with the intention of showing and discussing the issues kangaroos face with both local councillors and residents.

Mr Preuss originally tried to hold a Walk and Talk with councillors in November 2024 before holding a public one the following month and is planning a third for Australia Day this month.

Mr Preuss said the response so far has been a mixed bag.

“At any time (at the Yarra Valley Living Centre), you can see a couple of hundred kangaroos and it’s a brilliant spot to bust the myths, for a start, how there aren’t two million of them, because 25 years ago there was almost the same number of kangaroos there,” he said.

“It just shows that they will not keep breeding exponentially, they have a limit and they seem to be able to work themselves out in a way, even though you go there and there’s joeys everywhere, they don’t all succeed and the numbers just don’t skyrocket,”

“The other reason why it’s a good spot to go to is that they are knee-deep in grass, there are so many of them and they have to mow it for fire reasons so they won’t eat themselves out of house and home, there’s a bunch of other myths the place itself just debunks.”

Mr Preuss first called on Yarra Ranges Council at a council meeting in July 2023 to request the Victorian Government exclude the municipality from the commercial harvesting of kangaroos and to develop a kangaroo management plan that will reflect that position, taking inspi-

ration from the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and Mount Alexander Shire Councils at the time.

As of 2025, harvesting is banned in 31 of Victoria’s 79 local government areas (LGAs) with 10 more having been added to the exclusion zone this year. Four of the neighbouring LGAs to the Yarra Ranges; Knox, Maroondah, Cardinia and Nillumbik are within the exclusion zone. Mornington and Nillumbik both lobbied to be excluded, alongside Mount Alexander, although Mount Alexander remains included in the Kangaroo Harvesting Program.

The KHP quota for 2025 has also been set at 106,750 kangaroos throughout Victoria (combined eastern and western grey kangaroos), including 11,900 eastern grey kangaroos in the Gippsland harvest zone which includes the Yarra Ranges. In 2024, the kangaroo harvesting quota began at 155,650 before being revised to 142,350, including a final total of 43,900 kangaroos in the Central Harvest Zone the Yarra Ranges was previously in.

Mr Preuss said they won’t meet the quota because we just don’t have the kangaroos to meet it.

“Normally you would have a quota on something like fishing, you’d say you’re allowed to catch five of these fish and the chances are you could catch six of them or seven or more, but you have to stop at five but the kangaroo shooter doesn’t have to worry about that because he’s never gonna meet the quota, the numbers are just simply not there,” he said.

“It’s why the Mallee has a quota of zero, that’s where it all started because there were so many kangaroos there and then they shot them to the point of commercial extinction, though I’m not saying that the kangaroos are extinct in the Mallee, they’re still in national parks.”

When Mr Preuss was working with the Australian Conservation Foundation and the Australian Wildlife Protection Council in the 1980s, he was part of a group which helped end the com-

mercial killing of kangaroos until it was reintroduced in 2019.

“Mr Preuss said we wouldn’t be losing anything by going back to what we had before.

“If the farmer thinks he’s got a problem, he can apply for and get a permit to shoot them without it being commercial, once it’s become commercial people think they have a problem when they actually don’t,” he said.

“Commercial shooters approach landowners saying ‘I can fix your problem’ and they more often than not are going ‘What problem? And say’ ‘Oh these kangaroos, they’ll be eating your

grapes’ but I’m a grapevine grower myself, I make wine and they don’t eat grapes,”

“The amount that maybe the odd kangaroo will have a taste of is just minuscule, yet you’ve got vineyards that are allowing the commercial shooters to come in and take them out.”

Mr Preuss can be contacted at peter.preuss@ bigpond.com for anyone interested in joining a ‘Walk and Talk’ event and he is also happy to provide a free ebook copy of his book ‘The Red Sands of Hattah’ which details the campaign to stop the mass killing of kangaroos in Hattah-Kulkyne National Park in the 1980s.

The commercial harvesting of kangaroos continues, though the quota was reduced heavily in 2025. (File)

Black Spur toilet concern

By Dongyun Kwon

Former Healesville resident Ray Donkin found out the public toilets in Dom Dom Saddle Picnic Area were closed down a couple of weeks ago.

The Dom Dom Saddle Picnic Area is located at the northern end of Black Spur Drive along Maroonda Highway, and signs have been installed there to direct people who need to use toilets to either Fernshaw Picnic Ground or Narbethong Recreation Reserve.

Given that it’s summer now and more people are travelling and passing through the Black Spur Drive, Mr Donkin is worried about this inconvenient situation and said it’s “disgraceful”.

“They’ve been closed for a while. I didn’t believe it until I went down to have a look,” he said.

“Thousands of people go through there a week.

“Pressure should be put on the minister to put pressure on the department to reopen it.”

Dom Dom Saddle Picnic Area is managed by Parks Victoria.

Parks Victoria closed the Dom Dom Saddle Picnic Area toilets four years ago because the toilets were old, unsafe and beyond repair.

Parks Victoria prioritised maintaining toilets in nearby popular areas and one of the nearest toilets is at Fernshaw Picnic Ground.

Mr Donkin raised the issue of funding cuts by the state and local governments.

“It’s all about cutting costs,” he said.

Over the last two fiscal years, the government revised the budget for Parks Victoria to reduce the funding, and it was the first time in three years that the budget for Parks Victoria was allocated less than $200 million before the revision.

The Victorian Government slashed the budget for Parks Victoria in the 2024-25 fiscal year to $180 million from $215.2 million in the 2023-24 fiscal year which was eventually revised to $181.2 million.

In the 2022-23 year, it was set at $216.5 million

which was revised to $193 million.

In the 2021-22 year, it was set at $207.6 million and revised to $208.4 million.

Besides the budget cut, Parks Victoria has faced several changes as environment minister Steve Dimopoulos announced the wide-ranging review and departure of Parks Victoria’s new chief executive officer Matthew Jackson in November last year.

“It’s clear that Parks Victoria’s current operations need to be improved to meet community expectations,” minister Dimopoulos said.

“I have therefore ordered a comprehensive review of Parks Victoria, to advise how the organisation can better serve the needs of Victorians and help them enjoy the great outdoors.

“The review will focus on Parks Victoria’s priorities, the delivery of its objectives under the Parks Victoria Act 2018, the organisation’s administration, finances, functions and delivery model – to identify ways the organisation reduce red-tape, improve customer service, and deliver better outcomes for Victorians.”

The review will be completed by March 2025 and will be overseen by the Victorian Government with the support of Korda Mentha.

Along with introducing the new chief executive officer, the minister also appointed Graeme ‘Gus’ Dear as interim chief executive officer of Parks Victoria.

After the minister’s announcement, concerns have been raised about the future of Victoria’s popular national parks and reserves, whose integrity is vital for both nature conservation and community wellbeing.

Victorian National Parks Association executive director Matt Ruchel said nature conservation groups had serious concerns about the move.

“It’s hard to see how major cuts to funding for Parks Victoria combined with an out-of-the-blue review meets community expectations,” he said.

“We are deeply concerned this is a trojan horse for dismantling hard-won nature protections.”

A better retirement lifestyle from $590k

Be part of a vibrant Community and enjoy the Facilities

Parks Victoria closed the Dom Dom Saddle Picnic Area toilets four years ago because the toilets were old, unsafe and beyond repair. (Dongyun Kwon: 454091)

Boost for Millwarra hall

By Callum Ludwig

The Millgrove Resident’s Action Group (MRAG) is set to deliver another project aiming to bolster resilience in the community, courtesy of a grant from Ausnet’s Energy Resilience Community Fund.

MRAG received $277,115 for solar photovoltaic (PV) technology, battery storage and an inverter to be installed at Millwarra Primary School’s Millgrove campus and the Millwarra Community Hall.

MRAG Associate Member Sam Rye said the hall is used by the school, the River Valley Church and for a number of community activities.

“It’s got a gymnasium, an event space, it’s got a commercial kitchen in there and it’s got bathrooms and this energy and battery install will make a significant difference to the school and to the community,” he said.

“We know that it’s going to reduce the energy costs for running that facility day to day for the school and for the church and we know that it’s going to increase resilience to power outages and the like because in the event of those outages, the hall can keep running,”

“Whether that’s keeping the cooling on, keeping the kitchen going, whatever it might be so we’re delighted by those different benefits that we’ll see for that space.”

Millwarra Primary School and Yarra Ranges Council were also involved in the grant application process, providing letters of support for the project particularly given it’s potential to reduce energy costs for the school and work towards providing a resilience hub for the Millgrove community.

MRAG’s Acting Secretary Phil Pomaroff said it’s been a goal of MRAg to set up what they’ll be calling a ‘Community Resilience Emergency Hub’.

“It’s certainly one of the foundations for putting a community facility in place, so that in the future, if we do have an emergency response, we’ve got somewhere which will have ongoing power,” he said.

“Through those batteries and solar, we’ll have a

resilient supply for the community, which will certainly go towards our goals and aims of becoming a more resilient community.”

Turning the Millwarra Community Hall into a hub for the community to rely on during emergencies and outages is a long-term goal of MRAG as part of their Millgrove Resilience Plan.

“It was the best Christmas present I received, we heard just before Christmas, and it certainly buoyed all of us around MRAG and a number of other people, family and in the community, who heard directly from me in those couple of days as well and I’d love to thank Ausnet for this grant,” Mr

Rye said.

“We think it’s such a good starting point with the hub and also resilience for the school, so it’s really a great outcome, it’s been a great achievement and we’re really pleased to be able to get it,” Mr Pomaroff said.

MRAG also received $22,000 previously from Ausnet for their Millgrove Community & Energy Resilience Training Program in November last year.

MRAG is one of 13 recipients from the fund across Victoria, totalling close to $2.4 million, to support community energy resilience projects.

Executive General Manager Distribution at Ausnet Andrew Linnie said the Energy Resilience Community Fund was created by AusNet to fund projects that will build long-term community energy resilience and provide support to communities during the recovery phase of severe weather events.

“These major grant projects will build community energy resilience, delivering important and impactful change to communities across these regions, helping them to stay connected and safe during prolonged outages and emergencies,” he said.

The Millwarra Community Hall is set to get a solar battery system through a $277,115 grant from Ausnet. (File)

Playground reopens

By Dongyun Kwon

The playground at Bluegum Reserve in Badger Creek was officially reopened after refurbishment.

The playground has now received new seating options including a much-needed picnic table, a new spinner play item, more junior play equipment with swings, which include a toddler seat and a toddler nature play area, and art installations.

Badger Creek Community Group held a family picnic and fun day to celebrate the reopening of the playground on Sunday 19 January.

Badger Creek Community Group member Rachael Davidson said there were free activities for children and sausage sizzles at the event.

“It was just an opportunity for people to come down, we had face painting for kids and a band playing music,” she said.

“There were also new art installations for people to see.

“We had an event last year. Ali Griffin, one of our local artists, had a workshop where community members and a lot of kids from the primary school came down and created clay sculptures of animals.”

In 2024, Yarra Ranges Council approached the Badger Creek community to get feedback about what the community members would appreciate in the upgraded playground.

Badger Creek residents shared their ideas with the council, and the renovation works started in the middle of last year and completed in late 2024.

Yarra Ranges mayor Jim Child also attended the reopening event.

Cr Child said spaces like these are some of the most valued assets that we have in our community, it’s a space for all ages to play, walk and improve our health and fitness.

“This renewal has been years in the making after the council received funding from the Growing Suburbs Fund in October of 2022. The council matched this funding, and since then, we’ve been out to the community to hear about what they wanted to see, created a concept plan for the site, went back to the community for their thoughts on the plan, and then got stuck into the construction,” he said.

“Construction started in the middle of last year, and was wrapped up recently in late 2024, and I think standing here today we can all agree that these wonderful improvements are truly going to make this a space for all in this community.

“I’m proud to be here today to officially open

Yarra Valley update

Hello Yarra Valley gardeners!

Welcome to the second January 2025 fruit fly update!

With detections of QFF locally now, everyone needs to take the extra step to plan for and prevent QFF. Two very important aspects of QFF prevention and control include using a fine mesh netting over vulnerable host fruit and practicing ’garden hygiene’ - picking on time, preventing fruit falling, and treating suspect fruit by boiling or freezing.

Netting

Exclusion netting or fine mesh nets stop the fruit fly from accessing the fruit to lay eggs.

Netting is installed over the fruit tree or shrub after flowering and pollination, but before fruit grows in size and starts to change colour.

Garden Hygiene

Keep the fruit in your garden picked on time, and if it does fall to the ground, clean it up as quick as possible to destroy larvae and reduce the attractive scent.

Process what you pick. Don’t share fruit if you suspect it is infested. Treat suspect fruit by freezing or boiling.

QFF Detections @ JAN 17th 2025 Yarra Valley and surrounds Coldstream, Yarra Glen, Lilydale have all reported QFF in traps. Action plans are in place, along with extra traps. QFF larvae have been detected in nectarines in Warrandyte, and in apricots and nectarines in Chirnside Park.

Kilsyth and Bayswater have unverified but likely QFF detections of QFF larvae in fruit. Please report suspect QFF to qff@agribusiness-yarravalley.com with an image if possible. There will likely be more detections this Summer. On high alert, due to QFF in the area last summer, are the areas of Silvan, Yellingbo, Hoddles Creek, Gruyere, Wandin and Montrose. Let us work together and prevent QFF.

Face painting.

Sunflower seed planting.

The playground at Bluegum Reserve in Badger Creek was officially reopened on Sunday 19 January after refurbishment. (Supplied)

Badger Creek CFA helping barbecue.

Flower power

By Callum Ludwig

A floristry apprentice from the Upper Yarra is set to showcase her skills against the other best apprentices in the country in 2025.

Elisabeth Boer, a Wandin resident and member of the team at Wandin Florist, is set to compete in the World Skills Nationals competition, representing Victoria in the Floristry category.

Ms Boer said floristry wasn’t something she was always interested him.

“I heard about the job going and thought I’d apply for it, got the job and found out and loved it and was good at it,” she said.

“Working with flowers in general is really nice, it’s a nice environment and a good outlet for my creativity.”

Set to be held in Brisbane this June, the World Skills competition aims to pit the best trainees and apprentices in different trades and skills against each other over three days and is held every two years, with competitors having been picked from regional competitions held prior.

Ms Boer said it was a lot of fun in the regional competition, especially as she had a bit of time to prepare so she worked out what she was doing beforehand.

“I was able to have a rough idea at least and it wasn’t very stressful, t was a good way to test my skills as well and push myself a bit more and I’m looking forward to that more in the Nationals as well, pushing myself and being more creative,” she said.

“At regional, we had four items to make and there’s a little guideline on what you have to make that the rest is left up to you, each competitor is

given the same amount of flowers and you have to figure out how you’re going to divide each bunch for your different items,”

“On the day it went pretty smoothly though with the time limits I did start to run short on time but I think it was good for me to have to push myself, I haven’t started palling for the next one because I haven’t got the competition pack yet but I’m going to be researching past competitions to get an idea of what they’re looking for.”

The regional competitions are usually held at local schools or training organisations, with top performers picked to represent their state in the Nationals. Medalists in the Nationals may then be invited to train for the International Competition against the top talents from all over the world. The next international event will be held in Shanghai, China in September 2026.

Ms Boer said it’s a privilege to get to represent Victoria and be part of the team at the Wandin Florist.

“It’s going to be exciting working as a team representing Victoria… I’d be super keen to go (to Shanghai), that would be pretty amazing,” she said.

“I was born in Wandin, grew up in Wandin, live in Wandin still and work in London so I’m a Wandin girl and we have a good little team here, we work together really well and (Owner) Amy’s always supported me in every way and she’s really supporting me as I’m going through these competitions as well,”

“I didn’t know (love for floristry) so if you give it a go, try it and you might love it, it might be your thing and if you’re interested, go for it.”

Discover Your Next Adventure at Geelong’s Travel and World Cruise Expo

Geelong Travel’s highly anticipated Travel and World Cruise Expo returns to Geelong on Sunday, February 2, at GMHBA Stadium.

The annual event promises to be packed with fantastic holiday ideas, exclusive travel deals and expert advice – all with free entry.

With more than 25 engaging travel presentations covering everything from luxury ocean and river cruises to outback Aussie adventures, this expo is your one-stop destination for travel planning.

It’s your chance to meet representatives from the world’s top travel companies, who are ready to help you design your dream itinerary and secure exclusive offers.

Among the expo guests will be celebrity chef Gabriel Gate who will serve up a French cooking demonstration and highlights of Scenic Tour’s luxury European river cruises.

Stuart Coffield, who heads up the family-owned and operated Geelong Travel company, says the popular event’s winning attraction is its lineup of expert travellers.

“We don’t have people reading from brochures or clicking on YouTube links. You get to talk to people who have been on the tours and have real experience – their presentations are amazing,” Mr Coffield said.

Geelong Travel’s 20 experienced team members will be on hand to help expo visitors with enquiries and bookings.

And there’s a travel experience to suit everyone. Among the exciting presentations will be:

• The Ghan & Indian Pacific – Australia’s Great Rail Journeys

• The wonders of Canada and Alaska with APT & Travelmarvel

• Explore the new world of Viking’s Ocean, Rivers & Expeditions

• Trafalgar’s Tour Differently – the experts, the icons, and hidden secrets of travelling with ease.

• Bucket list adventures including The Kimberley, Africa, South America & Asia with APT and Travelmarvel.

• Must-see places and Immersive cultural experiences throughout Asia and beyond with Wendy Wu.

• Travelling to Antarctica and the Arctic with Quark Expeditions

• New Zealand coach tours with Grand Pacific Tours.

• Small group 4WD expeditions throughout Australia with Outback Spirit. Don’t miss the chance to make your ultimate travel plans a reality!

Visit the Travel & Cruise World Expo on Sunday, February 2 at GMHBA Stadium, Geelong from 10am – 4pm.

Elisabeth Boer will travel to Brisbane in June to comepte in the Floristry category of the World Skills Nationals competition. (Callum Ludwig: 453857)

Elisabeth Boer is a third-year apprentice at Wandin Florist.

Nine-month journey to end

By Dongyun Kwon

A couple who have been trekking over 5000km are about to finish off their journey in Healesville.

The couple are inviting locals to join their last two days of trekking.

Steph and Daniel with Steph’s horses Future and Karma started off trekking together in April last year.

They’ve been trekking along the National Trail, previously called the Bicentennial National Trail, starting from Cooktown, Queensland and ending in Healesville, covering a total of 5330km.

Steph said it’s been absolutely amazing and they’ve been lucky to be able to turn it into a walk for mental health.

“There’s a youth charity called Freedom Youth in South East Queensland that I’ve done a little bit of work with, and they recently got the ability to receive donations. We’ve been raising money and awareness for them,” she said.

“We’ve been raising funds through our Facebook and Instagram pages as well as different fundraising activities that we did in small towns.

“100 per cent of all the donations go directly to providing children with counselling or support at youth retreats.”

The couple have trekked about 25 to 30km each day on average.

“But it does really depend on the terrain,” Steph said.

“In Queensland, it was quite flat whereas in Victoria, there are a lot of mountains and they are very steep.”

There have been a number of challenges throughout the ninemonth journey which the couple have wisely dealt with.

“We take everything one day at a time and we just tackle the problem that’s in front of us,” Steph said.

“If we looked at the whole track all at once, it would be very daunting because there are a lot of things that can go wrong.

“Some of the biggest challenges for me personally have been the steep terrain and caring about the welfare of my horses, making sure they are not too tired and planning enough breaks for the horses not to be sore.”

Throughout the over 5000km trekking, Steph said she learnt to trust herself and her horses and be open to the kindness of strangers.

“I’ve realised most people are really good when you give them half an opportunity to be,” she said.

“We’ve had such warm welcomes in most of the towns that we’ve gone into.”

Steph and Daniel are going to wrap up their nine-month trekking in Healesville on 2 February and are inviting locals to join them for the last two days of the journey.

They are going to meet up in Marysville on 31 January and trek from Marysville to Monda Horse Yards on 1 February, which is about 31km, and from Monda Horse Yards to Healesville on 2 February, which is about 18km.

“People can come for either one or both of those days,” Steph said.

“If anyone is interested in doing a bit of trekking on a horse or off a horse, we’re very happy to help. Unfortunately, motor vehicles are not allowed on the trail.

“You are welcome just to show up but it’d be very helpful if you were able to message us just so we know to look out for you.”

For more information, please visit Steph and Daniel’s Facebook page at facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089936705098 or their website at freedomoffthetrack.com.au

Steph and Daniel with Future and Karma on the trail outside of Nundle. (Supplied)

Daniel and Steph at outside the pub in Nundle, New South Wales. (Supplied) Fundraising in Taralga, New South Wales. (exquisite_capture90)

The couple on the trail outside the Wollemi National Park. (Supplied)

AUSTRALIA DAY Citizens will be celebrated

With Australia’s national day fast approaching, Yarra Ranges Council is preparing to name and award excelling community members for their achievements and contributions, while also welcoming new citizens to the municipality.

For more than 20 years the council has presented community-nominated and driven awards to people and groups who have shown leadership, commitment and been a role model.

“Each year on Australia Day, we present awards to community members who are outstanding in serving their communities through volunteering, leadership and environmental action, following

our Citizenship Ceremony,” council’s corporate services acting director Kim O’Connor said.

“This year, we received 43 nominations across all award categories. These nominations are reviewed by a panel including the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and a delegate from the CEO. Council has a selection criteria document and all nominations are checked against this for eligibility.”

Mr O’Connor said the quality of nominations each year makes for a difficult process in deciding who receives a Community Award.

“We regularly receive brilliant nominations, for community members doing tremendous work.

Unfortunately, we can only select a few each year for an award,” he said.

“But we thank all community members who nominated someone who gives back to their communities.”

The awards distributed fall under seven categories, commending individuals and groups from across the shire.

These are Citizen of Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Environmental Achiever of the Year, Young Environmental Achiever, Community Group of the Year, Mayor’s Lifetime Achievement Award and the Ian De La Rue Award for Community Leadership.

On the same day, a group of people are officially acknowledged and welcomed as citizens of Australia, a special and emotional moment for many.

“This year, we expect 45 community members to receive their citizenship,” Mr O’Connor said.

“This day is celebrated by people who are

proud to receive their citizenship, and we’re proud to bestow it upon them.”

While this is just one of the citizenship ceremonies held throughout the year, Australia Day is a proud day for new citizens.

“Our Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony, like our other Citizenship Ceremonies through the year, follows a legislated guideline from the Department of Home Affairs.

“Following the ceremony, conferees - who have just taken their pledge and received their citizenship formally - will have a morning tea with our Mayor, Councillors and Local MPs.”

Due to limitations on numbers, the awards and citizenship ceremony is invite only but news of awardees will be shared via Yarra Ranges Council and the Star Mail soon after.

“We look forward to sharing the award winners with the community on Australia Day, and welcoming our new citizens.”

Yarra Ranges Council is preparing to award its exemplary citizens who have made outstanding contributions to the shire. These were last year’s winners. (Dongyun Kwon: 385465)

Soaking up summer’s sun

Belgrave Outdoor Pool was the place to be on Tuesday 14 January as people from all over the Yarra Ranges travelled to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine.

From trying the best jumps and tricks to get into the pool to play water fights, there was so much fun being had at the local pool.

Others, like Melanie and her children aged four, seven and 10, stayed to soak up the warm sun and water after taking part in the VicSwim program.

Being the first time her children had done the intensive, week-long program, Melanie said she “booked this to see what it was all about (and) to look at the benefits of an intensive program”.

Finishing up the program on Friday 17 January, Melanie said her kids “had a lot of fun”.

“On the Friday session (the last day), the kids did more games and activities than just straight swimming and they definitely enjoyed this the best,” she said.

“The other benefit was that we stayed on after our lessons so the kids got extra swimming practice each day, which is something not available at our usual swimming facility.”

Over the course of the week, Melanie said she could see the benefits of swimming each day for five days.

“Their stroke technique improved, as well as

their swimming speed.

“My youngest one’s improved confidence would be the biggest gain for him.”

A spokesperson from Belgravia Leisure, the operator of pools in the Yarra Ranges, said VicSwim is a time-efficient way to help children develop essential skills and water safety.

“The program provides accessible, affordable and high-quality lessons designed to improve children’s water safety, swimming skills and confidence in the water,” they said.

“With its focus on water safety and building essential life skills, VICSWIM is a valuable resource for parents aiming to ensure their children are safer and more confident around water.”

Melanie said if given the chance next year she would definitely take up the option of getting her children into the program again.

Recreational users of the pool commented that Belgrave Outdoor Pool ticked all the boxes for them, the main one being the outdoor environment, hence some travelling the distance from Wesburn, Yarra Junction and Mount Evelyn.

Others said it was the length and size of the pool, the shaded spots and the accessibility that made it a great summers day out location.

Journalist TANYA STEELE captured these moments poolside.

Zoe jumps into the pool. (453671)

Hannah launches into the water. (453671)

Hannah and Zoe doing the safety starfish float taught in swimming lessons. (453671)

Vicky with Elara and Leon from Mulgrave and Gembrook having a play water fight. (453671)

Macclesfield mum Siobhan and her two-year-old son Leo enjoy Belgrave Pool because it is one of the only outdoor ones. (453671)

Sonny, Logan and Jude from Yarra Junction, Wesburn and Mt Evelyn splashing about at Belgrave Pool. (Tanya Steele: 453671)

Lilian, Matilda, Josie and Charlotte enjoying the deep end. (453671)

Belgrave Pool Manager Jorja-Shae. (453671)

Monopoly, Yarra Valley style

Starting 2025 with a playful roll of the dice, a Victorian hotspot is getting the chance to ‘Pass Go’ this year with the announcement of a custom MONOPOLY board for the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.

The Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges’ storybook villages, breathtaking mountains, and rich wildlife. Historic towns like Mount Dandenong, Olinda, and Sassafras, famous for their charm, are home to quaint cafes, boutique stores, and exceptional local wineries –all will be inspiration for the new board.

Announced last week, locals can have their say on which regional gems they would like to see on the custom edition via the official MONOPOLY: Winning Moves Australia Facebook page: Winning Moves Australia

Would you want to see the iconic Puffing Billy Railway take the top ‘Mayfair’ property? Or perhaps the picturesque Chelsea Australian Garden will make for a perfect Brown square property?

“We are beyond thrilled to celebrate the iconic Yarra Valley with its own custom MONOPOLY board. Renowned for its stunning vineyards, majestic rainforest and memories of winding through the mountains, we can’t wait to hear from the community about what they’d love to see featured,” Jaime-Lee de Niet, representative from Winning Moves, manufacturers of the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges Edition, under license from leading toy and game company Hasbro, said.

“Whether it’s the Tarrawarra Museum of Art, Healesville Sanctuary, or the region’s fa-

mous wineries, we’re excited to bring the Yarra Valley to life on the board!”

2025 marks 90 years of MONOPOLY in the market, and Hasbro is celebrating its iconic legacy all year long.

As the world’s favourite family game brand, with over one billion players in 114 countries, MONOPOLY is more than just a game – it’s a

global phenomenon.

Known for its timeless fun, strategy, and friendly competition, MONOPOLY invites consumers across generations to step into a world where opulence and villainy collide, and all is fair in the race for riches.

With a growing list of more than 300 culturally relevant editions and new ways to play

– from in-person experiences to digital platforms, casino games and more – there’s truly a MONOPOLY for everyone.

The new MONOPOLY: Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges Edition will be available from leading toy retailers across the region in 2025.

Many strings to her bow for young violinist

By Callum Ludwig

A 15-year-old violinist from Yarra Junction is making waves in the music world, becoming one of the youngest, if not the youngest, violinist to feature as part of the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic Orchestra’s annual production of ‘Handel’s Messiah’.

Arielle has previously played in the Maroondah Symphony Orchestra, Percy Grainger Orchestra and Melbourne Youth Chamber Strings Orchestra before recently being accepted into the Flagship Melbourne Youth Orchestra, a goal of hers over the last three years.

Arielle said when she was little in her home, her family listened to diverse music styles from ABBA to metal to classical, though of course, ‘Let the Laundry Hit the Floor’ by Sock Puppet Theatre remains a firm favourite.

“But it was hearing Beethoven’s Violin Concerto for the first time that crystallised the concept of music for me, it is the earliest piece I can remember hearing and one of my earliest memories in general, listening to it playing on the radio when I was three years old, later at five years old, I was introduced to Abba, further cementing my interest in music,” she said.

“On impulse one day, I turned to my mother and asked if I could learn the violin. I was six years old when she arranged for lessons to be provided through my school. At the end-of-year concert, she watched in horror and loss for all the money and time we both had wasted and promptly found a suitably Russian-sounding private school for me to attend,“

“However, after several years we belatedly discovered that that also was not giving me the technique and opportunities and repertoire that young people need if they want to study or perform at higher levels.

After some Zoom classes during and after Covid that she was not fond of, Arielle prepared for her Grade Seven violin exam mostly alone, the first official exam she’d been able to do since she was at Grade Four level, in a ‘tearing hurry’ with a view to applying for orchestras as soon as she could.

Arielle auditioned and was accepted by the Melbourne Youth Chamber Strings (MYO) and was invited to play with the Maroondah Symphony Orchestra (MaSO) by age 13 and said it was finally the start of the world she wanted to be part of.

“Age is of no consequence in Orchestra and orchestras tend to be very nurturing and friendly environments, certainly the MYO and MaSO are extreme examples of that,” she said.

“Orchestra creates entire worlds out of a room containing only some people and some instruments, its vibrations make your blood literally sing, and tell stories that resonate with your soul, it allows the expression of the rawest emotions untethered by the restraints of a spoken language,”

“The pure overwhelming sound is the first thing that strikes you, it’s beyond words to describe being

in the very centre of all that glorious music, all those instruments, all those notes.”

A great friend and mentor of Areille’s is a member of the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic Orchestra and presented her CV to the Conductor, Andrew Wailes.

Arielle said to her great fortune, he was short a violinist and she received the phone call at 7pm the night before the first rehearsal the next morning.

“I’d never seen the music and I had a quartet concert scheduled for that very afternoon so it was incredibly stressful trying to work everything out, it was a mixture of disbelief, joy, pure excitement and stress,” she said.

“Orchestra gives the opportunities to enter hallowed, special places where magic happens, just a week prior I had performed at Hamer Hall with MYO, orchestra is such a wonderful life and I hope to be a part of many more productions in future,”

“Music is a magic unlike anything else in this world. It unifies and draws people together. It evokes feelings and atmospheres and creates entire worlds from nothing to tell a story in a way that resonates with the soul.”

The production of Handel’s Messiah was held on 8 December 2024 in Melbourne Town Hall and was the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic Choir and Orchestra’s world record 245th time performing it since 1853.

Arielle said being a part of Handel’s Messiah was a unique gift, unlike anything she could’ve ever imagined.

“It opened a portal into an entirely different realm of purity and majesty, being in the midst of that music was being in the midst of a vortex of vibrations, emotions and pure energy, like entering into a temple of the gods, it was an ephemeral spell that put me in a trance of comfort and wonder,” he said.

“Being in a professional Orchestra for the first time was a lot of pressure and starting out I definitely felt that, however, the great thing about orchestra is that it’s such a supportive environment; at the end of the day we were all there for the same purpose, to do what we love and tell a story, to inspire others,”

“During the concert, I felt nothing but what the music wanted me to feel, a complete sense of comfort and joy, this was our Messiah, and I am so honoured to have been a part of it.”

Arielle will begin rehearsals with the Flagship Melbourne Youth Orchestra in February and is particularly excited to be playing music such as Rachmaninoff’s 5th Symphony, Saint-Saens ‘organ’ second symphony and Tchaikovsky’s 5th Symphony which are in the pipeline, as well as a couple of Soloist performances she has planned, including the beautiful Beethoven’s Violin Concerto.

15-year old Arielle from Yarra Junction is taking her talent and hard work with a violin to the biggest stages. (Supplied)

The Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges will set the scene for a new edition of Monopoly in 2025. (Unsplash)

Rodeo’s bucking success

By Dongyun Kwon

The gate was open from 3pm but the rodeo competition started at 5pm on Saturday 18 January.

The event was held successfully, having all different rodeo actions, from barrel racing, team roping, and steer wrestling to breakaway roping and bronc and bull riding.

There were also entertainments for kids, such as water drop sliding and animal farms.

Yarra Valley Rodeo once again aimed at raising awareness for ovarian cancer and SADS (Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome).

Yarra Valley Racing in Yarra Glen was once again crowded with people who came to enjoy the 2025 Yarra Valley Rodeo.

A junior competitor doing her best.

Barrel racing. Bronc riding.

Claire (middle) with her kids Matt (left) and Ella (pink clothes) and her nephew Marlon (right) enjoying the event. (Dongyun Kwon: 454321)

Competitors getting warmed up at the backstage.Thousands of people turned up.

Do you want some bubble?

Eddison falling in love with rodeo.

Team roping.

Yarra Valley Rodeo is an annual event aiming at raising awareness for ovarian cancer and SADS (Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome).

Yarra Valley Rodeo is a family fun event as it has lots of kids activities too.

Coalition’s plan for Casey

It’s a new year, and 2025 is an important one for our nation.

The summer break provided many in our community with a much needed opportunity to reset after a difficult year.

For myself, the beginning of the new year was a chance for reflect on all we have achieved for our region, and the many things we can continue to achieve in 2025 and beyond.

This year, Australians will have a say in determining the future of our great country with a federal election to be held on or before 17 May.

It’s been an honour to be your MP for the past two and a half years.

I am excited to be part of a Coalition with a strong plan to get our country Back on Track.

The cost of living has been the biggest challenge raised with me by local families and small businesses.

We believe it is the government’s role to manage the budget responsibly, ensuring inflation is low and wages are growing faster than household costs.

Our responsible budget management will take pressure off the Reserve Bank, creating an environment for much needed interest rate relief for

Australians.

The Coalition believes in the core principle that you should keep more of what you earn and

that hard-working Australians should be rewarded.

We have plans to provide lower, simpler, fairer taxes, including increasing the instant asset write-off to $30,000 to allow small businesses to invest in themselves, and new tax deductions of up to $20,000 for work related entertainment and dining.

This is a win-win, rewarding employees while encouraging spending at local hospitality venues to help them thrive after a difficult few years.

Locals have told me how important access to healthcare is in our community.

The Coalition is committed to doubling Medicare-funded mental health sessions to 20 to ensure all Australians can access the support they need.

We will build our GP workforce by incentivising junior doctors to become GP’s, particularly in regional and rural communities like ours.

This will increase access to healthcare in our community.

We will address the housing crisis by unlocking up to 500,000 new homes through funding essential infrastructure like drainage, water and access roads.

I will be announcing more about my local plan over the coming months.

In 2025, Australians have an opportunity to elect a new and strong Coalition Government that will get our country Back on Track.

The story of Dragonkeeper animated fantasy adventure

Dragonkeeper, the 2024 animated fantasy adventure film based on Australian author Carole Wilkinson’s award-winning 2003 novel of the same name, is now showing at Cameo Cinemas in Belgrave.

The voice cast includes Bill Nighy and Bill Bailey.

Not to be confused with American author Robin Hobb’s 2009 fantasy novel Dragon Keeper, Wilkinson’s book is set in ancient China where a nameless slave girl escapes from her brutal master and saves the life of an ageing dragon.

Together, they must deliver a mysterious stone to the ocean in order to protect the dragon’s legacy.

Dragonkeeper is the first in a series of seven books, including two trilogies and a prequel.

The book has sold more than 250,000 copies and is the winner of multiple awards, including the Children’s Book Council of Australia Book of

PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

the Year (Younger Readers) and the Queensland Premier’s Literary Best Children’s Book Award.

In March 2019, Wilkinson spoke on ‘Researching China’ at the Chinese Reading and Writing Festival in Box Hill.

The author said her personal experience of living and traveling across China/Asia helped inspire the writing. But it was diligent research combined with much hard work that contrib-

uted to her success.

Wilkinson cited Dutch author Marinus Willem de Visser’s The Dragon in China and Japan (1913) as an important source. She also mentioned Zuo Zhuan, a Chinese narrative history that is more than 2,000 years old. In the author’s words:

“In [Zuo Zhuan] was a very short story about an emperor who had two pairs of dragons. The man who was supposed to look after them didn’t know how to care for dragons and one died. To get rid of the evidence, the man chopped up the dead dragon and made pickle out of it. I thought that was the most amazing little story I’d ever heard. So I used that as the beginning of my story.”

In shaping Long Danzi or ‘Courageous Dragon’, Wilkinson re-conceptualised the many dragon images found in folk religious texts, drawings and paintings across China.

As in any work of fiction set against a certain

historical era and/or cultural background, the author highlighted the importance of respectful world-building.

Specifically, because the dragon as a mythical creature is portrayed and idealised in considerably different ways worldwide, crosscultural fantasy novels like Dragonkeeper rely on universal values to keep readers interested. Equally important is to breathe new life into traditional tales while challenging some of the long-lasting assumptions and prejudices.

Finally, those interested in dragons may want to check out ‘Carole’s dragon tour of Melbourne’ on Wilkinson’s website.

“There is a surprising number of handsome dragons to be seen within Melbourne’s central business district... Some binoculars or a telephoto lens will help to see the detail of some of the loftier dragons,” she concluded.

Wilkinson’s website: carolewilkinson.com. au/faqs/#faq-4

The second horror remake

Wolf Man

Starring Christopher Abbott, Julia Garner and Matilda Firth M 4/5

A werewolf character piece may not be for everyone, but Wolf Man, the fourth film from Australian writer-director Leigh Whannell, is a claustrophobic, deeply eerie horror film with a tragic lead performance from Christopher Abbott, clear creative cues from David Cronenberg’s The Fly and rich, visceral sound design.

At his lost father’s remote farmhouse, Blake (Abbott) and his family find themselves hunted by a werewolf, and a scratched Blake begins turning into one himself.

With almost no dialogue beyond the first act, Abbott plays Blake with a prowling physicality and feral alertness, and Blake’s fear, confusion and lingering humanity shine through the unsettling facial prosthetics. Some critics disapprove of Wolf Man focusing too much on Blake’s transformation, but this is precisely the point, as the film’s emotional core is his touching bond with his daughter Ginger (Matilda Firth).

The werewolf outside is the secondary threat, and much of the tension comes from a trusted figure turned frightening, as Blake’s infection advances and the beast emerges.

Besides, Blake’s foreboding sickness builds to a bloody, harrowing climax.

Blake’s wife Charlotte (Julia Garner) is engaging but less defined than Blake or Ginger.

The dialogue can be heavyhanded, and the lurid effects shots of Blake’s family from his perspective, as his animal senses take over and his family becomes incomprehensible, look a little tacky.

While I like the film’s werewolf design as a subtler portrayal of a mutated human with animal traits, other viewers may find it not lupine enough.

A gripping, poignant psychological drama turned into werewolf body horror by moonlight, Wolf Man is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

Federal Casey MP Aaron Violi (middle) and federal shadow finance minister senator Jane Hume (white cloth) visited Healesville to have a chat with small business owners in the town in September 2024. (Dongyun Kwon: 428765)

Federal Member for Casey

Record donations

Eastern suburbs residents have a lot to be proud of after smashing a local record twice in two days following Australian Red Cross Lifeblood’s recent urgent appeal for blood and plasma donations.

On 7 January, a record 180 people donated at Lifeblood’s Ringwood Donor Centre and 188 donated the very next day.

The record donations came at an important time to boost low blood stocks as 20,000 appointments were cancelled, rescheduled, or unattended at the end of December 2024.

Lifeblood spokesperson Ashleigh Hales said the team was blown away by the response and are so thankful to all the donors who gave blood and plasma.

“Each donation can save up to three lives, so as many as 1100 lives were saved by local donations in just two days,” Ashleigh said.

“While this is a terrific way to start the New Year, the need for blood never stops.

“We can’t stockpile blood, so we’d love to see people rebook for their next appointment, especially with the 26 January long weekend coming up.”

There is an increased demand for blood and plasma in Australia largely due to a growing and aging population.

Every day, 9500 blood products and plasma-derived medications are issued nationwide to help cancer patients, women giving birth, people with blood disorders, people in surgery and more.

One in three people will need blood or blood products in their lifetime, but only one in 30 currently donates.

A blood donation appointment takes one hour, with the donation itself only lasting up to 10

minutes and can be made every three months. A plasma donation takes an hour and a half, with 40 minutes in the donor chair, and can be made every fortnight.

“Most plasma donors in Australia donate between two-three times per year and we want to set a challenge for them to give five times in 2025,” Ashleigh added.

“I also urge people in Ringwood and surrounding suburbs, who have not donated before, to roll up their sleeve if they can and make a life changing difference.”

Lifeblood’s Ringwood Donor Centre is open Monday- Friday 7am-8pm; Saturday 7am-5pm; Sunday 7am-4pm, and is located at 4/38 Charter St, Ringwood VIC 3134. To book a donation, call 13 14 95 or book online at lifeblood.com.au or on the DonateBlood app.

Yarra Ranges residents are being encouraged to make the most of their annual hard waste and Bundled Branch collection, by disposing of old appliances, bulky items and branches.

Between January and March, every household will have a collection of hard waste, metals and whitegoods and bundled branches.

Hard rubbish collection dates vary from property to property.

Yarra Ranges mayor Jim Child encouraged community members to check their collection week and what can be put out for collection.

Items for hard rubbish collection must be placed on the nature strip by the Sunday evening prior to the start of your collection week. Materials must not be placed out more than one week prior to your collection week. Late materials will not be collected.

Before considering items for hard waste, consider offering usable items to charity or advertise them online.

Items we will collect at your allocated hard rubbish collection time include:

· Unwanted furniture that cannot be donated or reused by others

· Metals

· Whitegoods

· Electronic waste – eg. computers, televisions, monitors, all other battery and power-operated items and items with an electrical cord

· Mattresses

· Help to minimise waste in our community

· please don’t put useful items out in your hard rubbish collection!

Donate your useful items to charities, sell or giving away items via websites like Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree, or give to a friend. This will help to reduce the natural resources used to make new items and protect the environment.

'Hard Waste' means household waste items not suitable for collection in the regular kerbside bin garbage and recyclables collections. These items are often large, bulky or otherwise difficult to dispose of in regular bin collections.

To ensure your items are collected your waste must be separated into distinct piles: hard waste, metals, e-waste, bundled branches and mattresses.

Additional information

Community members can place up to three cubic metres of hard waste out for collection. Household waste, paint, building renovation materials, untied branches and chemicals cannot be placed out for collection.

Over your collection week, different materials will be collected by trucks, to ensure they can be sorted.

If your hard waste hasn’t been collected by the end of your collection week, call us on 1300 368 333 before the end of the following week. For a detailed list of what can – and can’t – be put out for the hard waste and bundled branch collection, visit yarraranges.vic.gov. au/HardWaste

Ringwood Lifeblood Team after breaking centre donation record. (Supplied)

CREEKSIDE CONTEMPORARY FAMILY MASTERPIECE IN HEALESVILLE’S HEART

A home of Grand Design that offers luxury living on a scale that is rarely matched in Healesville’s residential market. The richness of a private position on the Southern bank of the Graceburn Creek that also places you so very close to Healesville’s heart, offering easy access to parks and sporting facilities, restaurants and cafes, iconic tourist attractions and essential services.

This exceptional property boasts a unique custom-built and architecturally inspired design. Featuring an uncluttered Northern Vista; that dominates the breadth of outdoor living and streams into the majority of living, kitchen/dining and bedroom spaces through expansive double glazing. Glazing that also ensures the spacious outdoor entertaining zone, bounded by the rolling lawns that flow on, down to the beautiful Grace Burn, are entirely a part of indoor living, day long and year-round.

On entering this glorious home, the stunning Red (Queensland) Ironbark polished timber flooring greets you as your eye is drawn though and beyond the main family living and dining zones to the enormous merbau deck and further on to the oasis of outdoor living and its large sparkling blue pool. Here we also find a spacious, contemporary kitchen with stone waterfall bench, soft close cupboards ample bench space and food preparation areas with quality appliances. All presented in a neutral decor. This “Heart of the Home” space offers room aplenty for a large dining table to accommodate the largest family or dinner parties. Two double glazed double sliding doors ensure that indoor/outdoor transitional living is seamless no matter the event or size of guest list.

Down the hallway two large bedrooms with WIRs enjoy the desired northern aspect, with a recently updated bathroom nearby, as well as a second large family living area adjacent, then an expansive laundry with excellent storage, a separate toilet precedes a storage come mud room Garage access to either the corridor or storage area are both available for convenient unloading of supplies.

Upstairs, the quality of this home continues to impress. The master suite has its own large “parents retreat” with balcony access as the main bedroom does which overlooks the verdant lawns, pool and the majestic Mountain Ash gum trees along the Grace Burn, the enormous ensuite has a large deep bath with

a Walk-in robe to complete the area.

Another extra-large bedroom with huge WIR is on the left while on the right two further bedrooms with WIRs and northerly aspect await, all served by a recently renovated family bathroom. A further bedroom is being used as an office and has the Red Ironbark polished timber flooring, the large WIR then has a door to a large under roof storage area. With a clear span construction method used if changes need to be made easy solutions can be implemented, excellent storage everywhere making for a clutter free life. Evaporative cooling, hydronic boiler heating, double glazed & tinted windows, gas assisted solar hot water and solar pool heating all make for a comfortable life.

This quality home includes a laundry chute to save trips down the stairs, an amazing loft storage space accessed by a pull-down attic ladder, once in the attic a lockable roof

hatch allows safe roof access, for appliance servicing and spectacular views.

A lifestyle property in this fabulous location with local shops, cafes and restaurants a short flat walk away as are primary and high schools, kindergartens and the beautiful Queens Park.

Does the Manor have a cottage? Yes, the Manor has its own self-contained cottage across the forecourt, screened by hedges. It awaits an adult family member or tenant maybe...

Outdoors there is an additional four car garage/workshop, excellent side access, a fantastic swimming pool where no doubt summer memories will be made. A wonderful alfresco area tucks you out of the sun if that’s your choice.

This lifestyle home is “move in” ready, when you do the sums, it all adds up- a quality home on over an acre with a self-contained cottage

in a fabulous location.

Features:

• Gas Boiler Hydronic Heating throughout

• Modern Gas Pebble Fire (warmth and atmosphere)

• Evaporative Cooling

Block Size - 4249 m2

Lovely alfresco area, overlooking large inground pool

Fabulous family friendly location

• Creekside Tree House

• Seven bedrooms

• Double glazing in main house

• Master with parents retreat and ensuite

• Expansive storage options both downstairs and upstairs

Huge two car garage with internal access

Additional four car garage/workshop

• Self contained cottage

SECLUDED 18 ACRE RETREAT

NESTLED in a rare and private setting, this incredible 18-acre property offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and modern off grid living. Surrounded by the serene Kurth Kiln State Forest, it’s an opportunity that only comes around once in a lifetime, this unique property is a haven for those seeking peace, privacy, and an organic lifestyle.

The property features a harmonious mix of native bushland and cleared paddocks ideal for embracing a self sufficient lifestyle. Well equipped with essential off grid amenities, including water tanks, over 17kW solar setup, and even electric car charging facilities, you have everything needed to live sustainably in this idyllic environment.

The one of a kind home offers 3 - 4 comfortable bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and large open living spaces, designed with versatile living in mind. The expansive grounds provide ample room to relax and explore, with amazing birdlife and wildlife adding to the natural beauty.

Tomahawk Creek gracefully winds its way through the property, creating a stunning natural backdrop and a serene atmosphere. With unparalleled access to Kurth Kiln, simply cross the bridge to explore a network of tracks ideal for horse riding, cycling, or leisurely walks soaking up the blissful environment.

Additional features include large shedding and ample storage space, perfect for hobbies, workshops, or equipment storage.

Whether you’re seeking a complete lifestyle change or a private retreat, this extraordinary off grid acreage offers it all, a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the comforts of modern living.

PERFECTLY PRESENTED HOME THAT TICKS ALL THE BOXES

THIS beautifully presented home really does tick all your wishlist items! Located in a sought after street with sealed road access on a flat ¼ acre approx. this fantastic opportunity to purchase this much loved home ensures the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and convenience. You will love the high ceilings and spacious living area, with separate dining and meals areas that creates a spacious and inviting atmosphere throughout.

There is split system heating and cooling, gas ducted heating and a cosy wood fire to ensure year round comfort. Outdoors offers something for everyone with a beautiful garden that offers privacy and colour all year, a large double garage with separate workshop, plus double carport, firepit area and outdoor alfresco area with plumbed gas barbecue. Inspect this home with confidence.

HEIRLOOM POSITION AND PERFECTLY PRIVATE

ORIGINALLY built in the 1980’s by one of the Local Councillors - Jack Hort. The project began with a MEGA move where by the existing home was moved to face Stephens Rd and continues to stand proudly the to the present

Positioned high on the Blannin Street Hill, encapsulating the stunning mountain views, sits this immaculately, well presented home. Architecturally designed to draw the hills into the home, it also offers internal views with a wonderful secret courtyard, only discovered once inside the home. Positioned in the heart of Healesville on a spacious yet very private and importantly entirely flat lot of approximately 2164m2

Like unwrapping a gift, the strength of the design of this charming home reveals itself slowly but assertively. The spacious entry hall leads the eye into the courtyard garden. To the right, the large loungeroom enjoys views from north facing, picture windows. Adjacent sits the study which also offers an open Northern vista, which could also become a fourth internal bedroom if required.

Down the hall are two large bedrooms, with excellent storage. A large bathroom serves these two bedrooms, and the oversized laundry offers more storage space and access into the courtyard.

Perfect for zoning, this whole half of the house can be closed off with a sliding door if required.

Capitalizing on the panoramic views, the left side of the house is really the heart of the home, with a relaxed family, dining and kitchen area. The kitchen is elegant in its neutral tones, clever storage and ample bench space with quality appliances and

everything within easy reach.

Behind here is the Master suite, the large bedroom enjoying views to the courtyard, a beautiful contemporary bathroom and a large walk in robe, a luxurious place to wake up in!

With a custom-made steel framed fly screen roof, the internal courtyard allows for light and air to circulate around the home, as well as providing a wonderful alfresco area free from bugs! Such a clever idea, every home should have one!

This home offers flexibility for entertaining large groups or a more intimate family gathering.

A triple garage, with one bay made into a workshop, sits at the rear of the home and adds separation to the back garden, which is full of surprises...

A self contained studio with a hotel feel bathroom and kitchenette opens up the possibility of multi generational living, a teenage retreat, work from home space or an income stream with short term accommodation, tapping into the tourists who visit the Yarra Valley daily...

The lush, private backyard has a secret garden atmosphere, with mature trees, a lovely restored glasshouse and large garden shed sitting next to the sweet veggie garden.

Walking distance to both primary and secondary schools, access to the vibrant Healesville Main Street and beautiful Queens park via the new pedestrian steps, or enjoy an old fashioned amble, this home is positioned to take advantage of the wonderful life Healesville and the greater Yarra Valley has to offer at any stage of life.The perfect location, with the perfect view- is this your perfect home...?

ENCHANTING HOME ON ½ ACRE

THIS two storey character home boasts three bedrooms and two bathrooms, offering a delightful retreat amidst stunning mountain vistas. Nestled on a generous half acre block, it’s ideally situated just a stroll away from the beautiful Yarra river, bustling shops, charming cafes, and scenic walking tracks.

Exuding charm and vibrancy, the residence features light filled rooms adorned with polished boards, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Cozy up by the wood fire in the lounge room or enjoy the convenience of the split system for cooling during warmer months.

The ground level hosts two bedrooms alongside a main bathroom, graced with high ceilings and decorative cornices, adding to the home’s character. The updated kitchen is a culinary haven, boasting a stylish breakfast bar, ample bench space, and a delightful window overlooking the lush garden.

Step outside onto the gorgeous deck area, perfect for alfresco dining while soaking in the picturesque surroundings. Downstairs, a spacious rumpus area awaits, and main bedroom complete with an ensuite and built in robe, providing a tranquil retreat.

Additional features include solar panels, a double garage, and a striking feature stone chimney, enhancing the home’s appeal. Outside, the meticulously landscaped gardens burst with colour, adorned with charming shade trees scattered throughout the property, creating a serene oasis to call home.

PicturesqueAcreagewithGloriousViews

EnjoytheglorioussurroundsandfantasticYarraValleyviewsatthisbeautifulproperty,situatedon justover10picturesqueacreswith amixtureofundulatingpastureandscatteredbush.Thehome issuperbandjusta fewyearsoldoffersthegrowingfamily afantasticsemirurallifestylewithself sustainableoffgridlivingwithalternativesolarpower.Beautifullypresentedandoffering 3bedrooms with aluxuriousmainbathroomandensuiteinthemainbedroom.Thekitchenisstunning,lightand brightwithqualityappliancesandfixturesthroughoutwithamplebenchandcupboardspace. Immerseyourselfintheoutdoorswithestablishedgardensandloadsofspaceforthekidsandpetsto exploreandenjoy, afantasticsmallacreagepropertyin abeautifullocationwithacresofspaceto createyourownhobbyfarm.

FamilyLivingwithSpaceandConvenience

Setina quietendofstreetlocationthisneatfamilyhomeoffers acomfortable &convenientlifestyle. Boasting 3goodsizebedroomsplusa bonusbungalow,idealfortheextendedfamily,relativesora workfromhomeofficeorgamesroom,thefamily/livingroomisspaciousandoffersgreatspacefor thewholefamily.Thekitchenisfresh,modernanduptodatewithqualityappliancesandfixtures withamplebenchandcupboardspace.Ventureoutsideandexploreandenjoytheestablished gardensandthegreatsizebackyard,a gardenshedandlockupgarageoffergreatspaceforall thetoys,thebackyardissecurelyfencedforthepetsandkidstorunaroundandenjoy. Acovered entertainingareatositbackrelaxandunwind, asuperblocationandsituatedjust ashortstrollto localschools,shops& publictransport. 31DeanCrescent,LaunchingPlace$690,000

DavidCarroll

M 0419539320

Positionedtopleasethisbeautifulsmallacreagehobbyfarmistheidealplacetostarttherelaxed countrylifestyle,situatedonapprox.4.5acresofrollingpastures,thereisloadsofspaceforthe growingfamilytospreadoutandenjoy.Currentlysetuptosuitthehorseenthusiastwithmultiple paddocksandsheltersplus 3stablesandholdingyardsplusa largebarnwithmezzaninefloor.The countrystylehomeiswarm,homelyandinvitingoffering 2goodsizedbedroomsplus afamily/ loungeareawithgasheatingandmultiplesplitsystemsthroughoutthehome.Thekitcheniswell appointedandhasplentyofbenchandcupboardspaceincludinga separatemeals/diningarea.A sensationalpropertyinanexceptionallocationbackingontotheWarburtontrailandjust ashortwalk tolocalschools,shopsandtransportit’sa greatplaceforthefamilytocallhome. 2939WarburtonHighway,Millgrove$1,100,000-$1,200,000

Enchanting 5BedroomHomewithTimelessCharmonOverHalfanAcre! Stepintothischarming5 bedroom,2 bathroomhomewithcharacterstraightfromthe1890s,that seamlesslyblendsrusticambiencewithmoderncomforts.Setonover2,000sqmsofgorgeous landscapedgardens,thisserenecountryhomeinvitesyoutoexperiencea lifestyleofrelaxation.The heartofthehomeistheinvitingopenplankitchen.Theloungeexudeswarmthandcharm,witha woodburningfireplace.Themainbathroomshowcasesa luxuriousclawfootbath,a quirkyretrostyle toilet,anda spaciouslaundrywithabundantstorage.Outside,theexpansivegardensarea true haven,filledwithfruittreesandendlesspossibilitiesforentertaining,gardeningorsomeartworkinthe additionalstudiospace. Auniquecombinationofhistoricbeauty,modernamenities,andserene surroundings,thisisthequintessentialcountryretreat.

HOME FOCUS

LIFESTYLE, LOCATION AND DUAL OCCUPANCY ON OVER 10 ACRES

PRIVATELY positioned on over 10 glorious acres in a unique and picturesque location, this lifestyle property offers outstanding views across The Patch valley and mountain tops of the nearby Yarra Ranges.

The property is ideal for those seeking a peaceful, self-sustaining lifestyle whilst remaining close enough to nearby townships of Emerald, Belgrave and Monbulk for ease and convenience. Also boasting self-contained bungalow and studio areas with separate entrances providing dual occupancy living and potential for extra rental income from Air BnB. Gently sloping, the land is fully useable and perfect for gardening, raising animals, or simply enjoying the serenity of the beautiful Dandenong Ranges.

THE PROPERTY:

10.7 acres (approx.)

Four fenced paddocks, large garden area

• Spring fed dam with 5meg pumping rights

• Horse arena (currently used as parking bay)

• Sealed driveway

• Solar system approx. 8kw plus 10kw battery back up

• Tank water (multiple tanks)

• Excellent parking along with a single carport Extra shedding Greenhouse as well as mature fruit trees inc: 4 avocado, fig, nashi, multiple citrus and a covered orchard with berries, kiwi, plums, apples, peaches,

MAIN HOUSE:

Circa 1930 original with character updates throughout

Three bedrooms, two bathrooms plus office/ sitting area

• Large, open plan living area and galley style kitchen with Falcon upright stove

• Gas ducted heating split system heating/ cooling and a Nectre wood fire

• Wide verandah taking in mesmerising views

STUDIO 1:

• Open plan design - ideal for artists studio, work from home options and more

• split system heating/cooling

• Wide patio area

STUDIO 2:

• Original cottage containing one bedroom

• Lounge room, kitchen/meals, laundry and bathroom

• Lovely verandah, split system heating cooling plus wood heater

STUDIO 3:

• Single bedroom with kitchenette

• Split system heating and cooling

This is an absolute must see property for those who are looking for a lifestyle change or for those just searching for more space to raise their family in this wonderful Hills community. Within walking distance to The Patch Primary School and the much loved The Patch General Store, this location is as incredible as its views.

SharynChandler

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.

1 Postal receipt (5)

4 Female cleaner (9) 9 US writer (1817–62), Henry David – (7)

10 Distribute (food) (5,2)

11 Rear (9)

12 ‘70s dance genre (5)

13 Twenty-first letter of the Greek alphabet (3) 14 Melodramatic (11)

16 Able to be maintained consistently (11)

19 Male sheep (3) 20 Baghdad native (5)

22 Lasting (9) 25 First (7)

26 Mournful (7) 27 US state (9) 28 Persuasion (5)

1 Scheme (3-2)

2 Qualities of a room that determine audibility (9) 3 Bit (5) 4 Wariness (7) 5 European country (7) 6 Universal (9) 7 Satisfies (5)

8 'Not to worry' (2,7) 13 Assumes the worst (9) 14 Keep steady (9)

15 Beatles song, – Wood (9) 17 Attacks with thickened petrol bombs (7)

18 Language of Myanmar (7) 21 Foreign (5)

23 Vigilant; observant (5)

24 Unspoken (5)

No. 222

No. 221

Summer series underway

By Ian Milgate

Friday night was the third night in our summer series of Family Barefoot Bowls under a beautiful summers evening.

It was well represented by the local community, in fact nearly 80 people attended including children and teenagers.

It was great to see not one mobile phone was looked at or put to the ear for the duration of the night.

Everyone was just having great family time. They enjoyed bowling for some great prizes at the end of the night.

Healesville Bowling Club also had its famous barbecue going along with free give aways including ice poles for the kids.

It came down to two teams to fight it out in the final.

It was the best of two ends, but due to the score still being level after the two ends, the two skips had to roll two bowls each down to decide the winner.

Nerves started to creep in with both first bowls a little distance from the jack and then one finished about one metre from the jack.

The last bowl came down, wicked off the other bowl and moved the jack across to their bowl. What a finish.

The runner up and winners for the night received cash prizes for their efforts.

If you missed out and would like to be part of the next Family Barefoot Bowls night, it will be on Friday 21 February so come along and have a great time.

Back to the green for Yarra Junction

By Elly Byrne

With the second half of the season resuming after the Christmas break, it was hats on and bowls out for Yarra Junction’s bowlers in a home game against Mooroolbark on the weekend.

An unusual game from the start with Mooroolbark down two players unexpectedly, phone calls and redrawing of rinks, and differing opinions of rules and regulations, however the umpire rules in the end. The Eagles pretty well controlled the game from the start while the opposition adjusted to the green. With two opposition teams a member down each, it was going to be a difficult game for them. To their credit, one three team managed to win their rink coming back from behind despite winning fewer ends overall. Those threes per end helped. 113 / 44 was the overall result for the Eagles.

The top spot on the ladder was retained with the tougher games still to come. Tuesday pennant season recommences 21 January.

Friday night Barefoot Bowls was again well supported by our community, with lots of compliments received about the club improvements. See you all again this Friday for week three of six. Bookings for larger groups are preferred. 0406 497 141 or 0411 263 721 Club singles comps are underway, new members are signing up, volunteers are working hard and the club is looking great.

Saturday Pennant started back with Side 1 playing away at Croydon who were sitting on top of the ladder, so it was going to be a big ask but if Healesville got away to a good start, it could be possible.

Adrian Beales rink got away to a flyer which gave the team a one shot lead at the half time break 39/38.

After the break, it was a sea sawing game with Croydon getting the lead, with only a few ends to go.

Woosha’s rink were trying to wear down their opponents while Steve Bulled’s rink were barrelling along.

In the end, Healesville were too strong for them winning by nine shots 86/77.

A great effort by all.

Ian Milgate, Colin Jarvis, Robert Ayres, Mark Ward 12/26

Barry Parker, Bob Brown, Effie Laban, John Fitzpatrick 22/20

John Howard, Chris Hawting, Rita Featherstone, Steve Bulled 31/12

Gerda Otto, Mick Featherstone, Robyn Turville, Adrian Beales 23/19

Side 2 played away at Hurtsbridge and it was going to be a huge ask to win as the team was depleted due to injury and sickness.

The game was fairly close from the beginning and by the half time break, Healesville were trailing by five shots 23/28.

Hurtsbridge came out after the break and stretched their lead out to finally come home 18 shots ahead of Healesville 46/64.

A great effort considering Healesville did not have a full field. (Watch this space)

Welcome return to Pennant season at Warburton Bowls

By Steve Freestone

With five rounds to go before the finals, Warburton Bowls Club is determined to have all three Pennant sides participating in the playoffs. All wins are vital leading up to the business end of the season.

The Weekend Warburton 1 side is currently holding onto 5th place on the ladder and played the top side, Ferntree Gully 1, last Saturday 18 January. It was a thriller with Warburton holding a slender lead throughout the match. In the final 2 ends either team could have won and with consistentbowlingfromthefatherandsonSkipsofSteve and Chris Lord, Warburton won comfortably by 8 shots. Final scores Warburton 77 to Ferntree Gully 69. Rink Scores were as follows: Chris Lord 19-18, Chris (Scratcher) Neale 15-18 Steve (Lordy) Lord 27-13 and Paul McConachy ( Macca) 16-20

Warburton 2 were 4th on the ladder and played Eastwood Golf 1 away. Warburton struggled to master the slow grass green and was easily defeated by 32 shots. Warburton 53 to Eastwood Golf 1 85. They are looking to regroup next week as they play Chirnside Park 2 at home. Rink Scores were Graham Wynd 10-22, Matty Van Meurs 1526, David Fahy 15-20 and Peter Summers 13-17. Next Saturday January 25 will see both the Warburton 1 and 2 teams playing at home. The Club is looking forward to an exciting day as both teams keep fighting for a chance to play in the finals.

Warburton 1 vs Ringwood 1

Warburton 2 vs Chirnside Park 2

The Tuesday Pennant team is playing at home this week against Mooroolbark 2, January 21. They look forward to continuing their current good form and are currently 2nd on the ladder.

Next Wednesday Night, Barefoot Bowls Jack Attack Competition recommences on Wednesday 22 January. It has been great to witness the fun, enjoyment and improvement all participants are displaying throughout the season so far.

The Annual Pink Ribbon Day Triples Tournament, sponsored by Professionals Real Estate will now be held on Sunday 2 February from 12 midday, with all funds raised going towards Breast Cancer Research. Food, refreshments, raffles and prizes available during the day. $10 per head or $30 per team of three. Equipment provided. No experience necessary. Female and Male Entries accepted of all abilities, including Beginners. Entries in by 23 January. Interested people or teams of three are encouraged to contact Michelle 0437 566 238 for further details or put their names down on the list at the Club.

Intra Club Competitions continued over the break resulting in several close contests. The highlight was an excellent match between the formable duo of the McConachy brothers, who were narrowly defeated by Club Stalwarts Walsh and Freestone in the Quarter Final.

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.

Winning start to the year

By Rodney Bates

As weekend pennant resumed for the new year, the club had a great start on Saturday, with all three sides picking up wins and valuable points as the pennant gets close to the finals.

Yarra Glen division 1 side played a twilight game against top of the table Mitchum.

While Yarra Glen got away to an early lead, at one point more than 20 shots, Mitchum fought back with the game in the balance with one end to play.

Mitchum required five shots for a draw, and the skip played a great bowl to convert the head for three shots, but not enough with a two rink two shot win to Yarra Glen 76-74 (14 points).

C. Carswell 14/17; S. Manifold 31/14; Beau Simmons 12/27; Ben Simmons 19/16. The win keeps the side inside the top 4, and less than one game from second.

Division 4 Side 2 played away against Mooroolbark.

While rink scores changed considerably over the game, Yarra Glen maintained a comfortable lead to win overall 84-58 (16 Points).

S. Smith 20/16; M. Ramage 11/15; R. Thurkle 28/15; A. Thurkle 25/12.

The win jumps Yarra Glen back to the top of the ladder, but less than 15 points separates first from fifth.

Side 3 played away at Heatherdale. Three winning rinks getting the team over the line for a win 103/76 (16 Points).

L. Baker 26/24; D. Skillern 30/12; D. McMenaman 31/15; T. Dickson 16/25.

The team is now sixth on the ladder, less than one game outside the four.

Midweek pennant recommences on Tuesday, with Side 1 away to Croydon and Side 2 at home against Lilydale.

Jill Cookney, Glenda Graham, Mike Adams 16/21

Jim Viggers. John Allen, Anne Knibbs, Judy Veermann 15/18

Judy Wallace, Kenny Gallacher, Mark Cookney, Bernard Godde 15/25

Families enjoying mid summer Barefoot Bowls. (Supplied)

Barefoot bowlers enjoyed the summer weather and upgrades at the Yarra Junction Bowling Club. (Supplied)

Warburton Bowls Club has returned to action. (File)

After a break, Yarra Glen Bowls Club has been back to the pennant. (File: 183350)

Sanders dominates

Three Bridges’ Daniel Sanders is the champion of the 2025 Dakar Rally.

He also now sits in pole position in the 2025 World Rally-Raid Championship with four more events throughout the year to come in Abu Dhabi, South Africa, Portugal and Morocco.

Daniel Sanders saw his overall lead reduce to 11 minutes and three seconds after Stage Eight of the 2025 Dakar Rally, but it was all according to plan.

Sanders finished the stage in seventh and copped a speed penalty that added extra time to his overall total.

In an interview after the stage, Sanders said it was very, very tricky at the beginning and he lost a lot of time early on.

“After that, I got into a really good rhythm and the navigation was easier but you had to be really switched on because we lost so much time at the beginning. It was really important to stay focused all day and push all the way to the end. Opening a lot of the stage was good and I had a really good rhythm. I felt comfortable and happy with the technical navigation,“ he said.

“It was a good finish, a strong finish compared to a bad start. Hopefully we’re in the middle of the top 10. It would be nice to start in sixth or seventh or somewhere near there for tomorrow. I think tomorrow’s going to be the last difficult navigation day before we head down to the Empty Quarter. It was good to start up front today and we’ll see how we finish up tomorrow,“

“I’m happy with the position where we are and I’m sure it will be good. Tomorrow’s going to be a really important stage, same as today – every

day’s been important. So, tomorrow will probably be just as important as the rest.“

Daniel Sander’s Dakar Rally lead restrengthened as he came third in Stage Nine of the 2025 Dakar Rally.

The result saw him put another three minutes and 42 seconds between himself and Tosha Schareina in second, holding a 14-minute and 45-second overall lead.

In a post on his Facebook page, Sanders said he is keen to have some fun in the sand for the next few stages.

“I had a really good start on the stage allowing me to make up some time, however after the halfway point there was some tricky navigation,“ he said.

“I made it home safe and was able to extend the overall lead.“

Stage 10 was another steady performance from Sanders, finishing 11th in the stage but putting more time between himself and his closest competitors overall.

In a post on his Facebook page, Sanders said it was a good day.

“I placed 11th for the stage but was still able to make some time up on the closest pursuers in the overall,” he said.

The penultimate stage of the rally saw the first real wobble of Sander’s Dakar campaign.

Despite a delayed start and a crash, the conclusion of Stage 11 saw Sanders still holding a comfortable overall lead after a sixth-placed stage finish.

In a post on his Facebook page, Sanders said the stage didn’t start until later than scheduled

Melbourne heavyweight champion eyes bigger belt

By Dongyun Kwon

The Melbourne heavyweight champion is tying to collect one more silver belt in March.

Coldstream Boxing Club coach Hayden

‘H-Bomb’ Wright, the heavyweight champion of Melbourne, is now training for the World Boxing Council (WBC) Heavyweight Silver Championship.

He is facing Bowie Tupou at the international competition in New South Wales.

“The WBC title is a world organisation championship and the Silver Championship is one of the four major ones,” Wright said.

“So winning this belt is a step up on the world stage.”

Not only boxing, the Melbourne heavyweight champion is also passionate about helping kids and people with disabilities.

Wright runs a boxing club in Coldstream, providing free boxing classes for local children and also works as a disability support worker.

He first started doing disability support work about 17 years ago when he studied nursing in university.

“A lot of the clients’ or participants’ goals are the same as my personal goals; achieving little things in the community,” Wright said.

“I find it rewarding to help people achieve their goals.”

because of the amount of fog present limiting visibility.

“I had a crash today during the sand dunes and I’m feeling pretty rough today,” he said.

“I still have an overall lead of 9 minutes and we have one stage left of 61kms. Let’s bring it home!”

Bring it home he did, with another sixthplaced stage finish in Stage 12 securing Sanders’ first ever Dakar Rally win.

Sanders finished eight minutes and 50 seconds ahead of second-placed Spaniard Tosha Schareina and 14 minutes and 46 seconds ahead of third-placed Frenchman Adrien van Beveren, marking a comfortable win for the Three Bridges local who never lost his overall lead throughout the race.

Interviewed after the stage, Sanders said when he came out of the dunes, he could see the bivouac and just got instant chills through his whole body.

“I was super nervous. I couldn’t believe it. All the emotions started coming through and I could see the finishing line. It’s the biggest race in the world of motorbikes and off-roading,” he said.

“To win the six-day international enduro and now the Dakar, it’s just ticked off all the goals for my career and everything I’ve wanted to achieve. It’s a massive accomplishment,”

“For the team, my family, friends, my girlfriend and everyone who’s seen me undergo all the lows and highs along the way, it’s finally all paid off. They knew I could do it, everyone who’s backed me along the way, even after the last three years of a lot of lows, really, now we’ve got the up, so all the hard work has paid off”.

Wright has a special mate who helps him stay motivated, Zac Thompson.

Thompson has had a lung disease and immune disease since he was a kid.

Wright and Thompson train together three times a week.

Thompson said training with Wright and coaching local kids with him help him mentally and physically, and make him a better person.

“(Wright) has helped me a lot through the good times and the bad times,” Thompson said.

“He pushes me to my limit and I push him to his limit.”

They are more than just training mates; Thompson is on the National Disability Insurance Scheme, and Wright is his disability support worker.

The Coldstream Boxing Club coach said it’s like a team effort.

“We train as part of Zac’s NDIS goals; health, fitness, boxing, sports and community participation, and his goals are in line with my personal goals,” Wright said.

“So we train each other, and on weekends, Zac comes and helps coach the kids for free as part of a community program.

“Zac is a really good motivator who pushes me when I’m slacking off.”

The WBC Heavyweight Silver Championship will take place at the Grand Vaudeville in Condell Park, New South Wales on Saturday 29 March.

Wright thanked Paul Nasari, the promoter of the fight.

‘He gave me the opportunity even though I’m not the highest-ranked fighter,” he said.

Daniel Sanders (centre) alongslide Red Bull KTM Factory Racing teammates Luciano Benevides and Edgar Canet at the finish line. (Marcelo Maragni/ Red Bull Content Pool)

Daniel Sanders finished third in Stage Nine of the 2025 Dakar Rally. (DPPI/ Red Bull Content Pool)

Daniel Sanders dominated the 2025 Dakar Rally. (Kin Marcin/ Red Bull Content Pool)

Wright (left) with Thompson. (Dongyun Kwon: 453995)

Spot for finals underway

By Travis Gloury

Under 10, 12 and 14 all resume post Christmas next week.

Under 16

One day game – 25 overs per team

Yarra Glen 8/120

Eastfield 7/72 all out

Yarra Glen boys batted first and were soon 4/16 before Kade Smith (16) and Charlie Watts (37 off 27 balls) got our innings back on track.

Under 14 player Riley Galea(13), was the only other batsman to reach double figures and along with Tristian Riddiford, Daniel Shaw and Tobi Pauli all contributed some handy runs towards the tail end of the innings to post a competitive total of 8/120 cc after 25 overs.

Eastfield got off to a good start with the bat and looked to be in control at one for 52 after 10 overs.

Kade Smith was introduced into the attack with immediate success, breaking a 34 run partnership and claiming a further two wickets in the same over to have the opposition under pressure at 4/52 and with only eight batsman.

A steady flow of wickets saw the return of their retired opening batsman to continue the run chase for the final wicket.

Kade Smith claimed his fourth and final wicket of the match when Tobi Pauli pulled off a sensational outfield catch to claim victory to have Eastfield all out for 72 in a great fightback by the team to stay in the hunt for finals contention.

Seniors

1st XI

One Day game – 40 overs each Bayswater Park 2nd XI 9/123 cc Yarra Glen 6/125

Bayswater Park were sent into bat after captain

Tim Lilley won the toss with Jordan Bain and Phil Cowan partnering well with the new ball, not allowing the batsman any easy runs.

Brodie McCann got the first break through at the 16th over at 1/35 after a build up of pressure on the batsman with some tight bowling.

The opposition were 1/51 at the half way drinks break at 20 overs.

The next six overs saw reward for the tight bowling with the fall of an additional four wickets with two to Jordan Bain, the first of Tony`s four wickets and another to captain Tim Lilley as Bayswater Park slumped to 5/70. Bayswater Park continued to tick the scoreboard over and finished their allotted 40 overs 9/123 with leg spinner Tony Biddiscombe collecting four wickets, returning the exceptional figures of 4/18 off eight overs with three maidens.

Jordan Bain was outstanding with the ball once again conceding only 18 runs off eight overs with two maidens and collecting two wickets along the way. Phil Cowan claimed 2/32 off eight overs and Brodie McCann claiming 1/22 off seven with off spinner Brad (Happy) Willmore conceding only 17 runs off his five overs.

Yarra Glen’s run chase began with the early loss of Phil Cowan, with Charlie Watts joining Ash Waters to take the team score to 2/18 in the 11th over when Charlie was dismissed, caught from an excellent piece of outfielding at deep mid wicket.

Tony Biddiscombe and Ash Waters both remained unbeaten at the 20 over half way drinks break at 2/40, slightly behind the opposition at the same stage with a run rate of four runs per over required in the last 20 overs, with eight wickets in hand.

The next three overs saw a further 20 runs added to the teams score as the pair set about

chasing down the required total before Ash was dismissed caught at first slip from a thick edge for a well made 35 on a slow outfield, that would have otherwise produced 50 to take the teams score to 3/83 in the 28th over in a 65 run partnership.

Tim Williamson, Liam Senti, Bob Scott and Tim Lilley all partnered Tony who finished 57 not out in a chanceless innings to get the team over the line and claim victory with a couple of overs to spare and keep Yarra Glen’s finals hopes alive as Yarra Glen embarks on the final three two-day games to complete the home and away season.

Well done to Yarra Glen 1st XI and to Tony Biddiscombe on a man of the match performance to claim four wickets and produce an unbeaten half century with the bat.

2nd XI

One day game – 36 overs cc

St.Andrews 6th XI 7/213 cc Yarra Glen 4/215

St.Andrews got away to a dominant start with the bat on a quick St.Andrews outfield.

Dave Prewett claimed the first wicket in the 20th over at 1/112.

A steady flow of runs and wickets over the next 16 overs saw first change bowler Xavier Bosua claim 4/24 off six overs with a wicket each to Noah Evans and Sam Gloury with the St.Andrews innings finishing on 7/213 after 36 overs.

The run chase got off to a good start with Noah Evans and Shaun Beath at 0/49 in the 10th over before Shaun(21) was caught.

Sam Gloury Joined Noah Evans at 3/51 the following over after the dismissals of Shane Fordham and Dave Prewett.

Sam and Noah spent the next 20 overs chipping away at the deficit before Sam was caught behind for 50 in a 119 run partnership including

Join Yarra Glen Football Netball Club veterans team for the first time

By Dongyun Kwon

Yarra Glen Football Netball Club (YGFNC) is now getting a squad for veterans (vets) football for the first time.

Vets football is a football league for players over 35 years old who want to continue playing footy in a fun and less competitive manner.

YGFNC vets football team coach Lee Lawrence is calling more players to join the team.

“Men’s mental health is a huge issue in this age bracket and getting them out on the field and socialising is a great way to release the pressure of everyday life,” he said.

“We currently have 20 players on our list and the aim for a squad is to have at least 35 players. If we get more, that’s even better.

“Vets football is played every second weekend and we understand that players may not be available on some weekends, so having a big list allows us to get good rotation between players.”

Lawrence has had good experience coaching and playing for the YGFNC.

The reason why he accepted the coach role for the vets team is because he believes it would be fantastic for the area.

The coach said he has many experiences in football.

“I played most of my football at the Coldstream Football Club then came across to Yarra Glen,” Lawrence said.

“I have coached junior football at different age groups. I’ve coached under 18s at Coldstream, reserves at Yarra Glen for four years and been an assistant senior coach at Yarra Glen and Healesville.

“I am also the man behind the Valley Vicious Football social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. Our page is a fun and friendly way of expressing our great game in our local area and has over 13,000 followers. I am also the organiser of the Valley Vicious Rett Syndrome Awareness Cup that has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Rett Syndrome Association of Australia.”

As a coach of the vets team, Lawrence will focus on building a fun football environment for middle-aged men this year.

“My focus with coaching the vets this year will be bringing great people back to our fantastic club, having a fun environment for middle-aged men to be around and getting rid of the everyday stress that life brings,” he said.

The coach is planning to start the

in

seven boundaries and a six, with Noah unbeaten on 85.

With 44 runs required and 32balls remaining, Blake Davey joined Noah in a quest for quick runs with Noah bringing up his century in the process with some excellent batting.

The result of the game came down to the equation of 11 runs required off the final four balls of the match and finally four runs required from the final ball.

In a game that will long live in the memory for those who witnessed it.

Noah took a step towards the off stump, cleared the front leg and launched the ball deep towards the mid wicket boundary and sailed over the fieldsman’s head for six to claim victory off the final ball!

Blake finished with 16 n.o with the victory keeping the team in touch with the ladder leaders as Yarra Glen approaches the final few games of the home and away season.

Well done Noah on an exceptional innings and to our 2nd XI on a great team effort.

3rd XI

One day game – 35 overs per side Wandin 3rd XI 7/244

Yarra Glen 83

Wandin batted first with a strong batting line up to post a total of 7/244 of 35 overs.

Terry Brown and Damon Cowan both took 2 wickets each with single wickets to Lachlan Cowan, Dylan Shambrook and Daniel Shaw.

In reply, captain Lucas Walsh and Dylan Shambrook both top scored with 19 and Terry Brown added 17 runs to go with his two wickets but unfortunately Yarra Glen wasn’t able to establish any lengthy batting partnerships against a strong Wandin outfit.

By Anita Prowse

Tough losses for Lusatia

The last of the one-dayers as Lusatia Park played East Ringwood away, won the toss and sent them in. With tight bowling from Hayden Leeds and Terry Bennet, Lusatia Park had East Ringwood 2/14 after 7 overs with both taking a wicket each. The bowlers were doing a good job containing the runs to have them 3/66 after 20 overs and looking to finish the job after the drinks break. Lusatia Park was in a reasonable position after 25 overs having them 4/95 but then their 5th wicket started to attack, needing to build a big score, and put on a partnership of 104 with Dempsey

making 42 and Anderson 95 n.o. With one over to go, Anderson fell just short of his century on 98 and finished their innings at 6/210. Lusatia Park’s run chase didn’t start well losing Chris Reynolds second ball and Mick Nicholls soon after to be 2/22 after 7 overs. Jordan and Andy stemmed the tide somewhat taking the score to 71 until Jordy went for 25 in the 15th over and Andy went 8 runs later for a gritty 40. Lusatia Park were 5/101 at drinks but after none of the remaining batters could dig in and they finished all out for 178 in the 35th over to be on the back foot to make finals.

The 2nd XI played Kilsyth at Woori looking to consolidate top spot on the ladder, with the visitors winning the toss and batting first scoring steadily and were 3/64 after 14 overs. They then put on a 4th wicket partnership of 56 and were 4/120 after 28. Lusatia Park’s bowlers took wickets steadily from then on and got them all out for 169 P.B. taking 4/30 and Jacko 3/24, best of their batters Smith 37 and Cook 32. With a reasonable target to chase, Lusatia Park weren’t able to score runs at a steady pace and was only 2/52 after 20 overs. With the next 3 wickets fall-

Wins all around for Wandin Cricket Club

By David Marshall

For the second time this season, Wandin Cricket Club has achieved the incredible feat of securing victories across all four senior teams. With finals fast approaching, every game is crucial, and this dominant weekend of cricket has strengthened the club’s push for top-four finishes across the board. Here’s how the action unfolded:

1st XI: Disciplined Performance Lifts Wandin to Third

In a pivotal clash between Wandin (4th) and St Andrews (5th), the stakes couldn’t have been higher. A win would create breathing space in the top four, while a loss would tighten the battle for finals contention.

Winning the toss, Wandin elected to bat, and the ever-reliable duo of Bryce Edwards (42) and Jamie Atkinson (30) once again set a solid foundation against disciplined bowling. The middle order kept the momentum going, with Eden Van Beek (18) chipping in before Tim Thorne took charge. Tim played a powerful knock, blasting 58 off just 47 balls, injecting much-needed acceleration into the innings. The lower order provided a late flourish, with Taylan Hall smashing a rapid 18 off just seven deliveries to push the total to 206. While the score may have been slightly below par, it was a solid effort against a strong bowling and fielding unit.

With the ball, Wandin delivered a near-perfect performance. Taylan Hall tore through the St Andrews top order, taking the first three wickets in his opening spell to leave them struggling at 3/36. He finished with outstanding figures of 4/30, leading the attack. Dan Trembath bowled a disciplined spell, finishing with 2/23, while spinner Rory Vallence continued his strong season with 1/45 from his eight overs. Towards the end of the innings, Jarrod Dobson (2/23) and David Marshall (1/8) ensured there was no late surge from St Andrews, wrapping up a convincing win.

This well-rounded performance not only lifts Wandin to 3rd on the ladder but also gives the team valuable breathing room in the finals race. With such a disciplined bowling and fielding effort, this match should serve as the benchmark for the rest of the season.

Women’s 1st XI: Climbing to 2nd on the Ladder

Wandin’s Women’s 1st XI took on Chirnside Park at home, with ladder positioning becoming increasingly important. Chirnside Park won the toss and elected to bat, but against a sharp Wandin attack, their innings never gained momentum.

Lisa Vanderzee set the tone early, striking in her first over and finishing with 1/5. Charlotte Edwards (2/3) kept things tight, while Natalie Lowe and Jacqui Lowrie both chipped in with a wicket each. The bowlers were relentless, and an undermanned Chirnside Park side was dismissed for just 41 runs.

With a low total to chase, Wandin took the opportunity to mix up the batting order. Openers Jacqui Lowrie and Natalie Lowe got things underway before Jacqui fell early. This brought Lexi Marshall to the crease, and in a special moment for the team, Lexi scored her first-ever run in competitive cricket—an achievement celebrated by both sides.

After Lexi’s dismissal, Nyree George joined Natalie in the middle, and together they comfortably guided Wandin to victory. Natalie finished with six runs, and Nyree top-scored with 10, ensuring a quick chase.

This win propels Wandin to 2nd on the ladder, level on points with the top team but behind on percentage. With a challenging run home, every match will be critical as the team pushes for a top finish heading into finals.

2nd XI: Staying on Top with a Dominant

Chase

The 2nd XI travelled to Wonga Park for an important contest as they continue to fight for top position on the ladder. Losing the toss, Wandin was sent in to bowl first, and while Wonga Park started well with a 43-run opening partnership, it wasn’t long before the Wandin attack took control.

Wickets fell regularly as the bowlers tightened the screws. Jason Kneebone (2/20), Ethan Alderman (2/12), and Julian Polido (2/16) all played their part, but it was Hamish Lamont who stole the show, delivering an outstanding spell of 3/8 off six overs. Wonga Park was restricted to just 120—a total that always looked within reach.

Wandin’s chase was clinical. Opener Ben Galante wasted no time, smashing 29 off just 19 balls before retiring. Lachin Alderman (18 off 13) and Leigh Howes (22* off 37) kept the momentum going, while Dave Thorne anchored the innings with a composed 46* to see Wandin home with 15 overs to spare.

The win keeps the 2nd XI at the top of the ladder, setting up a massive final-round clash against Warrandyte. With the top spot on the line, the team will be eager to maintain their strong form.

3rd XI: Peaking at the Right Time

The 3rd XI played host to Yarra Glen, looking to continue their late-season surge toward finals contention. Winning the toss and electing to bat, Wandin put together one of their most impressive

ing for only 22, the target was looking increasingly hard still needing 98 with only 11 overs to go. Steve Morgan and Viren Kumar tried their hardest but ultimately lost by 8 runs. A great effort by V making 54 off 36 with 5 fours and 2 sixes and Morgs 28 off 35.

The 3rd XI played North Ringwood away with the home side winning the toss and batting first, finishing with a score of 4/178 after their 36 overs. Lusatia Park then batted but unfortunately lost by 11 runs finishing at 8/167 with Lee Philpot 56 retired and Max Rees 51 retired.

Warburton Golf Club results. (File)

Teenager takes Twilight win

By Ron Hottes

batting displays of the season. Contributions came from all across the order, with Peter Vaughan (21) and Gordo Gosland setting the early tone. Captain Greg Foden (52 retired) and Miles Rayner (51 retired) took charge in the middle order, building a strong platform. However, the standout of the innings was Gordo Gosland, who continued his red-hot form with an unbeaten 70, ensuring Wandin posted an imposing total of 244.

Defending the total, Wandin’s bowlers shared the wickets evenly. Blake Chrisfield (1/25), Olivia Edwards (1/12), and young debutant Blake Richards (1/11) all picked up one each. Peter Vaughan (2/11) and junior Manny Vallence (2/5) chipped in with crucial breakthroughs. The standout, however, was Trent Richards, who led the attack with 3/14.

The match also featured some entertaining family competition. Young Blake Richards took the bragging rights over his dad, Trent, with the bat by scoring two runs—doubling Trent’s score of one. It was lucky Trent took his 3 wickets to take the days’ bragging rights. No doubt this father-son rivalry will continue to be a talking point for years to come. In the end, Wandin bowled Yarra Glen out for just 83, securing another dominant win. With back-to-back victories, the 3rd XI is making a strong push for a top-four finish, and with the final rounds approaching, they remain in contention for a finals berth.

The V.V.V’s—no results available at this stage. Wednesday 15 January, the Johnson/Hyndman trophy: This popular Ambrose team event, sponsored by two also-popular members, is a four-person Ambrose. The winners, this year, were a relatively new combination, consisting of Maureen Hyndman, Gina Sillas, Suzanne Barratt and Gary Turnbridge. They returned a Nett 52.3, so hearty congratulations to the girls and Gary (The girls clearly carried Gary to victory, I’m reliably informed). In contrast, the runner-up team is an experienced crew, consisting of Ian Garside, Dale Horrobin, Trevor Porter and David Hatt. They can consider themselves unlucky losers because their Nett score of 52.7 was virtually half a stroke behind the winners. There was no ball rundown in this event, although plenty of bottles of wine were distributed. The NTP winners were Hatty (3rd), Matt Maloney (9th), Peter Fox (12th), Noel Cross (15th) and a great second shot on the 17th won an NTP for Ian Cranston. The Committee and the Match Committee would like, on behalf of all those in the field, to sincerely thank both A.J. and Hymie for sponsoring this most popular event, as they have done for a dozen years now.

Twilight:

It was absolutely great to see promising young teenager Jake Troyahn lead the Twilight field this week, as he posted a fine 22 points. Welcome to the big-time young man. Shane ‘Bomber’ Campbell also posted a special score, accumulating 20 points on the front nine. The three NTPs went home with Pacey Luttgens (3rd), Darryl Ward (5th—-well done, my old ‘china plate’) and finally to Peter Whitehead for a superb tee shot on the 9th. Saturday 18 January, Stableford: With good golfing weather providing perfect conditions for high scores, the loftiest of those was recorded by Sean Kennedy, with a fine 40-point result. Bruno takes home the A-Grade voucher. The runner-up in this Grade was Seth Spenceley, who edged out Mr. Scotland on a tight countback, with 38 points. Well done, S.S. and bad luck Neil. Balls reached down to 34. In B-Grade, Neil’s old mate, Tex Van Der Kooi took home the chocolates with a fine 38 points. Andrew McMath was the runner-up here, posting a 36 point total. Also nice to see Alan McDonald recording a fine 36-point result just missing out on the runner-up voucher. Balls here extended to 32. NTP winners were as follows: Tim Jones (3rd), Michael Pinkster (5th), Geoffrey Fall (9th), Paul Osbourne (12th) and Troy Murphy (15th).

L-R: 3rd XI players Miles Rayner (51), Greg Foden (52) and Gordo Gosland (70) were dominant with the bat. (Supplied)