Mail - Ferntree Gully Star Mail - 21st January 2025

Miles for McGrath: Dr Malhotra’s epic

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A well-known Boronia resident, Dr Pradbodh Malhotra, has completed his third consecutive walk in support of the McGrath Foundation, raising over $123,000 for breast cancer care.

Starting on 3 November 2024 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the retired academic trekked across thousands of kilometres to reach the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) on 3 January 2025.

“Australia has given me such a wonderful life, and I’ve always wanted to contribute, and after retiring from academia, this walk became my way of giving back,” Dr Malhotra said.

Over the two-month journey, which took him through the Gippsland coast, the Clyde Mountain, and Canberra, Dr Malhotra

faced both physical and mental challenges.

“It’s 70 to 80 per cent mental strength, not just physical,” he said. “If you’re mentally motivated, the body will follow.”

Dr Malhotra also met many inspiring individuals along the way, including a breast cancer survivor who praised the McGrath Foundation’s nurses.

“It made me feel like someone truly cared,” she told him.

With donations still coming in, Dr Malhotra’s dedication continues to inspire others in the fight against cancer.

Story page 6

Dr Malhotra spent two months walking from the MCG to the SCG, raising both funds and awareness for the McGrath Foundation. (Rob Carew: 453903)

Anger towards Eastern Health as unit will close after only six years

Angliss ICU shock

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

The announcement that Angliss Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in Upper Ferntree Gully will close later this year has shocked both hospital staff and the local community.

The closure, prompted by ongoing construction at the hospital, has raised serious concerns about the impact on patient care and local healthcare services.

Ann-Marie Caspanello, one of the ICU’s first

patients when it opened in 2018, expressed her disbelief over the decision. Having relied on the ICU’s proximity during her recovery from a severe asthma attack, Ms Caspanello emphasised how vital the unit was for her family.

“Being close to home was a real blessing,“ she said.

As the area grows, her husband, Patrick Benko, warned that the need for local healthcare would only increase. He questioned the logic behind shutting down a facility that had

been so essential, especially with the region’s rising population.

Hospital staff, meanwhile, are reeling from the news, with one anonymous nurse describing the closure as devastating. Concerns are mounting over the strain on other departments, particularly the Emergency Department (ED), and the potential delays for critically ill patients needing urgent care.

Eastern Health, which governs the hospital, said the decision was necessary due to construc-

tion-related disruptions. Staff and community members are calling for more transparency and assurance that the ICU will reopen once construction is completed in 2026.

Local MP Aaron Violi also voiced his concerns, urging the Victorian Government to guarantee the ICU’s future. With the hospital’s ICU closing, locals face uncertainty about the future of their healthcare services.

For full story, turn to page 5

Olinda toilets ‘disgusting’

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A Melbourne visitor’s recent experience with public toilets in Olinda has sparked concern over the state of facilities in the popular tourist town.

Glenda Esse, 80, visited Olinda with her family last week and was “disgusted“ by the condition of the public toilets, which she described as “disgraceful“ and “neglected.“

Ms Esse was disappointed that a beautiful and well-known destination like Olinda had such poorly maintained amenities.

She specifically referenced the toilets near the town’s pharmacy and ATM - between Mount Dandenong Tourist Road and Monash Ave - noting the walls were covered in graffiti, stained with “old stuff,“ and lacking basic facilities such as hooks for bags.

“It’s one of the most beautiful places in the Dandenong Ranges, surrounded by nature, yet these toilets are a disgrace. They need a proper upgrade,” Ms Esse said.

“It’s just not good enough, especially when tourists are coming through - they deserve better.”

Olinda, known for its lush gardens, scenic views, and quaint village atmosphere, attracts thousands of visitors every year - however, Ms Esse believes the state of the town’s public toilets could leave a bad impression on those exploring the area.

“Tourists come to enjoy Olinda, and one of the first things they need are clean and accessible public facilities,” she said.

“I saw a couple of buses with Japanese tourists, and I’m sure they wouldn’t have been impressed by what they found. If you’re visiting a country, the state of public toilets can tell you a lot about how well the place is looked after.”

While acknowledging the pressure on local councils to maintain facilities, Ms Esse called on Yarra Ranges Council to take immediate action to upgrade and improve the Olinda toilets.

She said, as a top tourist spot, the town’s amenities should be in better condition to accommodate the growing number of visitors.

In response to the concerns, Yarra Ranges Council’s acting director of built environment and infrastructure Jonathon Makaay, said that the Olinda toilets are serviced daily by cleaners yearround.

He said the cleaning schedule has been increased to four times a day during the summer period to cater to the rise in visitors.

“We understand the importance of clean and well-maintained public facilities, especially in busy tourist areas like Olinda. The site has received the full four cleans per day over the past weekend,” Mr Makaay said.

Mr Makaay also encouraged both locals and vis-

itors to take care when using public facilities to ensure they remain clean between official cleanings. Despite the council’s efforts, Ms Esse believes more work is needed.

Asbestos spill in Kallista

By Tanya Steele

Kallista was the site of a road closure and clean up as asbestos was reported dumped by local CFA on Friday 10 January.

The asbestos was dumped in a public area, with swift action to clean it up taken by local authorities.

Locals reported seeing the road closed and crews clearing up the hazardous material on social media and Yarra Ranges Council has confirmed the clean up on Tuesday 14 January.

Acting Director of Built Environment and Infrastructure, Jonathon Makaay said on Friday, 10 January, council was contacted by Victoria Police who had been contacted by CFA about asbestos dumped on VicRoads managed road.

“Vic Police closed the road to avoid potential spread of asbestos from cars. Our teams supported the Department of Transport and Planning, engaging a contractor to assist with removing the asbestos as quickly as possible,” he said.

“Dumping of asbestos on public property is not only extremely expensive to remove, but highly dangerous for community members who may come into contact with it.”

On the social media page for The Hills and the Dandenongs, locals reported seeing the road closed between Kallista Primary and Cooks Corner and sighting the clean up crews at work at around 11am.

Mr Makaay said council are disappointed that this has occurred and that they will work with Victoria Police to pass on information.

“We strongly encourage anyone with informa-

he said.

Ferntree Gully man fined over Traralgon fuel tank leak

Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria has fined a Ferntree Gully man more than a thousand dollars over a leak from an old service station’s underground petrol tank at Traralgon.

The $1185 fine is for failing to provide documented proof that there had been progress on dealing with the leak.

EPA issued the man with an Environmental Action Notice (EAN) after an investigation into unexpected cracks in the driveway of the premises at 180 Argyle St, Traralgon.

The old Underground Petrol Storage System (UPSS) had been shifting in the ground after heavy rain, causing the cracks and leading to apparent contamination of the soil.

EPA officers inspecting the site found water with a rainbow sheen seeping out from the ground between concrete joints.

The official notice required the man to produce proof that the UPSS had been safely decommissioned. It also ordered him to engage a qualified consultant who would test soil and groundwater, map the contamination, and advise on how to fix the problem.

Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 and the Infringements Act 2006, the man has the right to have the infringement notice reviewed or be considered by a court.

Members of the public can report pollution by calling EPA’s 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or providing details online at epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/reporting-pollution

“I know cleaning is difficult and costly, but if Olinda wants to stay a top destination for tourists, the toilets need attention. Clean facilities are a basic expectation,” she said.

With tourism continuing to rise in the Dandenong Ranges, Ms Esse’s comments highlight an ongoing issue that could affect Olinda’s reputation as a must-see destination.

Olinda’s public toilet, located between Mount Dandenong Tourist Road and Monash Ave. (Shamsiya Hussainpoor: 454057)

Vic Police closed the road to avoid potential spread of asbestos from cars. (Unsplash)

A Ferntree Gully man was fined for not providing proof of progress on the leak. (452898)

Belgrave rubbish ire

AlargepileofrubbishonWellingtonRoadnearRyans Road in Belgrave South has become a growing safety concern for local residents.

The pile, which started as a small heap of what appeared to be demolition waste, has nearly doubled in size over recent months, prompting fears of accidents.

Belgrave South resident, Ronnie Walker first reported the rubbish to VicRoads, now the Department of Transport and Planning (DOTP), in mid-November last year.

However, he said the issue remains unresolved, with follow-up actions failing to address the mounting problem.

“I first raised it through their complaints website back in November, and they promised to respond within seven days. But I’ve heard nothing back,“ Mr Walker said.

“The pile of junk has only gotten worse, and now it’s spilling onto the roadside, which is extremely dangerous.“

According to Mr Walker, the rubbish pile has grown substantially since he first noticed it, with items like couches, cupboards, and construction wastespillingoutontoabusy90km/hstretchofroad.

Over the Christmas period, the situation worsened, and more illegal dumping followed, including car parts and even tyres.

“The rubbish is right on the edge of the road and it’s on a bend. It’s a massive distraction for drivers, and at night, it’s completely unlit, making it even more hazardous,“ he said.

“The worst-case scenario is that someone crashes into it, causing a serious accident.“

Mr Walker also expressed frustration with the lack of response from local authorities.

Despite repeated attempts to follow up with VicRoads, he claims no action has been taken to clear the rubbish, and he has not received any communication about the status of his complaint.

“It’s not just the responsibility of VicRoads. My local council and my state representative should be advocating for this issue to be fixed, but they’ve all dropped the ball,“ he said.

In response, a spokesperson for the Department of Transport and Planning confirmed they are aware

of the issue and have committed to removing the pile in the coming days.

“We urge everyone to dispose of their rubbish responsibly and be mindful of the impacts roadside dumping has on the environment,“ the spokesperson said.

“Our crews will attend the site over the coming days to remove the rubbish pile.“

Member for Monbulk, Daniela De Martino, said that her office has forwarded the issue to the Department of Transport and Planning’s (DOTP) maintenance team, who have confirmed the cleanup will take place in the coming days.

“Illegal dumping is not only appalling, but it damages the environment, can be dangerous to our health and costs taxpayers money to clean it up. When waste is dumped near roads, it can also become a hazard. The hard waste left in piles along Wellington Road is terrible to see,“ Ms De Martino said.

“I strongly urge anyone who spots hard waste dumped along roadsides to report it immediately to VicRoads. If you witness illegal dumping, please report it to the Environment Protection Authority through their website or by calling.“

“We live in a beautiful part of the world and we want to keep it that way.”

Despite this assurance, Walker remains sceptical about the speed at which the issue will be addressed.

“It’s been months now, and this could have been sorted out much sooner. I just want to see it cleaned up for the safety of everyone.“

Illegal dumping remains an ongoing issue for both the Department of Transport and local councils, with the community urged to report such incidents to EPA Victoria at 1300 372 842 (1300 EPA VIC) or to VicRoads by calling 13 11 70.

Nine arrested

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.

State celebrates Tradies

The Victorian Government is delivering the skilled workers Victoria needs to meet its housing targets, with more than 20,000 carpenters, electricians and plumbers getting their trade papers since 2019.

Skills and TAFE minister Gayle Tierney welcomed the news and encouraged newly qualified tradies to display their trade papers with pride because they’re as valuable as a university degree on 14 January.

“Carpenters, electricians and plumbers are vital for our community, economy, and for building the homes we need – so we’re focusing our training investment to make trade apprenticeships fairer, safer and even more worthwhile,” she said.

Brush up on safety

Fire authorities and public land managers are reminding campers to make sure they check the conditions and brush up on campfire safety ahead of the upcoming long weekend. The Conservation Regulator, Parks Victoria, and Forest Fire Management Victoria will be conducting patrols in Victoria’s parks and forests throughout the weekend to make sure campers are doing the right thing.

People who breach campfire regulations on public land face a maximum penalty of $19,759 if the matter is prosecuted in court.

Themaximumpenaltyforlightingormaintaining afireduringaTotalFireBandayis$47,421.60and/ or two years in jail. Report unattended campfires toDEECAat136186orcall000toreportabushfire. For more on campfire rules go to: vic.gov.au/ campfires-stoves-and-bbqs

A growing pile of rubbish on Wellington Road, Belgrave South, raising safety concerns for local residents. (Supplied)

Illegal dumping on Wellington Road near Ryans Road has become a serious hazard for drivers. (Supplied)

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

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)

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)

Long road to help others

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A well-known Boronia resident, Dr Pradbodh Malhotra has recently completed his third consecutive walk in support of the McGrath Foundation, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to raising both funds and awareness for breast cancer.

Over two months, he journeyed from the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) to the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), covering thousands of kilometres for a cause that’s close to his heart.

Dr Malhotra, who has lived in Boronia since 1989, began his journey with a simple but powerful aim – to give back to the community that has welcomed him.

“Australia has given me such a wonderful life, and I’ve always wanted to contribute in some way. After retiring from academia, this walk became my way of doing that,” he said.

The McGrath Foundation, which provides vital support to families affected by breast cancer and, more recently, all forms of cancer, was a cause close to Dr Malhotra’s heart. It was a perfect match for his efforts.

Dr Malhotra has raised over $123,000 for the McGrath Foundation through his three years of dedicated walking, with more donations continuing to pour in.

“It’s incredible how people support you along the way,” he said.

“It really shows how strong the community spirit is in Australia.”

The walk began on 3 November 2024 at the MCG and concluded at the SCG on 3 January 2025, after an exhausting but rewarding two

months on the road.

This year’s route took him along the Gippsland coast, across the steep Clyde Mountain, and through Canberra – an especially challenging section.

But the terrain wasn’t the only obstacle Dr Malhotra faced.

He also had to navigate busy highways and roads with little shoulder space, often walking right next to heavy trucks and fast-moving traffic.

“It was scary at times, but you have to keep your focus,” he said.

While Dr Malhotra walked alone, his son joined him to drive the support van for the final weeks of the journey.

“My son has been my backbone in all of this, I’m so thankful for his help,” he said.

Along the way, Dr Malhotra met people whose stories moved him deeply, including a breast cancer survivor who shared how vital the McGrath Foundation’s nurses had been in her recovery.

“When I woke up after my surgery, a breast care nurse was holding my hand,” she told him.

“It made me feel like someone truly cared.”

For Dr Malhotra, the journey isn’t just about physical endurance; it’s about mental strength and the greater purpose of supporting others.

“It’s 70 to 80 per cent mental strength, not just physical,” he said.

“If you’re mentally motivated, the body will follow.”

While he’s not sure if he will continue this journey next year, Dr Malhotra leaves an inspiring legacy.

“I’ll keep doing this for as long as I can,” he said. “But at my age, you’ve got to listen to your body.”

This year, Dr Malhotra’s fundraising total reached $123,501, with contributions still coming in. To be part of this effort, visit: www.pinkisthecolour.com.au/fundraisers/PrabodhMalhotra

His efforts are part of a larger movement to support the McGrath Foundation, which is expanding its services to help people affected by all forms of cancer, not just breast cancer.

In a country where nearly one in two people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, this is more important than ever.

Dr Malhotra’s walk is a testament to the power

of community, perseverance, and kindness.

Whether he’s walking through the streets of Boronia or on the highways of Australia, his message is clear.

“It’s about giving back, making a difference, and helping those in need,” he said.

As he prepares for his next adventure, a long walk in India, Dr Malhotra reflects on the impact his journey has had – both on himself and on the countless people he’s met along the way. His story proves that even the smallest of actions can have a lasting, positive effect on the world around us.

Dr Malhotra successfully completed his third-year walk in support of the McGrath Foundation. (Rob Carew: 453903)

Ranges’ roos get advocate

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-

A

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-

By Callum Ludwig P

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

lifestyle from

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.

Be part of a vibrant Community and enjoy the Facilities

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

FTG to Fiji in one big hop

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Kate Tannin, 29, is currently completing a Bachelor of Social Work through CSU’s distance education program and she’s set to spend six months at the University of the South Pacific in Fiji, where she will undertake a combination of full-time study, language training, and a humanitarian internship focused on disaster relief.

“I’ve always dreamed of studying abroad and immersing myself in a new culture, but I never thought it would be possible. This scholarship is truly a dream come true,” Ms Tannin said.

“The opportunity to study and intern in Fiji will open doors I previously could only imagine - both personally and professionally.”

For Ms Tannin, who grew up in Ferntree Gully, the chance to study in the Indo-Pacific is particularly significant.

“I feel incredibly fortunate to have been selected for this opportunity. I’m one of the older candidates for the scholarship, so I knew it might be my last chance.

“It’s really a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to broaden my knowledge and gain practical experience in an area of social work that’s very new to me - humanitarian disaster relief,” she said.

The NCP scholarship, an initiative of the Australian Government, supports Australian undergraduate students to undertake study, language training, and internships in the Indo-Pacific for up to 19 months.

Ms Tannin’s six-month program in Fiji will allow her to gain cross-cultural experience, an essential component of social work practice, and to build on her academic learning in a global context.

“Fiji faces significant challenges due to its vulnerability to natural disasters, and I’m excited to learn about disaster relief and how social work can be part of recovery efforts.

“It’s an area that hasn’t traditionally been linked with social work, but it’s an essential field as we look at the global impacts of climate change and humanitarian crises,” Ms Tannin said.

She will undertake one semester of full-time study, focusing on topics like human rights, politics, and social development, before joining a humanitarian organisation for an internship.

“This will be a chance to see how social work can contribute to disaster recovery efforts and community resilience, particularly in the Pacific region, where natural disasters are so prevalent,” she said.

Ms Tannin’s selection comes after a long application process that began with Charles Sturt University nominating students who met the scholarship’s criteria.

“I first applied for the 2024 intake but wasn’t successful, so to be nominated again for 2025 and finally receive the scholarship feels amazing,” she said. “When I found out I had been selected, I

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.

was speechless. I immediately called my fiancethough I could barely get the words out! It’s such a relief and an honour to have the chance to study abroad.”

While her academic journey will be a major milestone, Ms Tannin is also excited about the personal growth the scholarship will bring.

“Fiji will be a completely different world for me. It’s a real chance to immerse myself in a new culture and see the world through a different lens. It’ll be life-changing,” she said.

Her journey to this point has been supported by many communities that have shaped her life.

“The strength and resilience of the communities I’ve been part of - whether in the sports world, through my local trampoline and horseriding communities, or my family - have been a huge influence on my decision to pursue social work,” she said.

“I want to help empower communities, particularly in the context of disaster recovery and prevention. That’s where my passion lies.”

Although her studies in Fiji will bring her significant distance from her home in Ferntree Gully, Ms Tannin has the support of her fiance, who she will marry in March 2025.

“It’s going to be a huge year for both of us - getting married and then embarking on this study adventure in Fiji,” she said. “He won’t be joining me right away, but I’m sure he’ll visit. I’m lucky to have such a supportive partner who’s always encouraged me to chase my dreams.”

Ms Tannin plans to graduate from Charles Sturt University in 2027 and hopes to build an international career in social work.

“My goal is to work internationally, particularly in the fields of disaster prevention and recovery. I want to work with communities, helping them build resilience and recover from natural disasters,” she said.

“Fiji will be an incredible learning experience, and I’m excited to bring that knowledge back to Australia.”

The New Colombo Plan scholarship is part of the Australian Government’s initiative to foster deeper ties with the Indo-Pacific region by supporting Australian students to study, live, and work in the region.

Ms Tannin is one of 219 Australian undergraduates selected for the 2025 cohort.

With a passion for social work, a commitment to humanitarian efforts, and a dream of working internationally, Ms Tannin’s journey from Ferntree Gully to Fiji is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter in her academic and professional life.

Charles Sturt University, Australia’s largest regional university, continues to support its students in accessing global opportunities like the New Colombo Plan, with campuses across regional and metropolitan Australia.

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.

Kate Tannin, 29, will be flying to Fiji in June to begin her studies. (453667)

Experience live music and enlightening exhibitions at Burrinja

Women Painting Women is a landmark group exhibition that showcases the exceptional talent of women realist portrait artists.

The fourth instalment of this celebrated series brings together award-winning painters from across Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia.

Live Music at Burrinja

Sarah Blasko Fri 14 Feb 8pm Ash Grunwald Sun 16 Feb 7.30pm

Upwey Girl guides feted

By Tanya Steele

that are usually male-dominated roles.

Burrinja’s Festival of Folk kicks off in March featuring:

Skerryvore Thu 6 Mar 8pm Old Man Luedecke Thu 13 Mar 7.30pm Charm of Finches Fri 28 Mar 8pm Ross Wilson Sun 16 Feb 7.30pm

The Girl Guides in Upwey had a special ceremony just before Christmas of 2024 awarding and celebrating three of its members for some of their incredible work and dedication in the community.

Three preteens in Upwey celebrated a year of hard work as Girl Guides and by December they were all awarded a high-level achievement from the Guiding organisation for their efforts.

Elke, Rosalie and Lily received the Junior Baden-Powell (JBP) and Baden-Powell (BP) Awards which are the second highest accolades for Girl Guides.

Upwey Girl Guide Leader Rebecca Broecker said these prestigious awards require an extraordinary level of dedication, resilience, and leadership.

“It was with immense pride that we celebrated Elke for earning the JBP Award and Rosalie and Lily for earning the BP Award at Upwey Girl Guides,” she said.

Some of the activities the trio did to earn their awards included running fundraising and community events. A highlight included raising around $400 for the charity Dolly’s Dream from putting on a fundraising disco night in the Upwey township. The Dolly’s Dream organisation is committed to changing the culture of bullying by addressing the impact of bullying, anxiety, depression and youth suicide.

“Lily and Rosalie did all the research for it and found out about Dolly’s Dream and then together, the three of them ran the night and charged an entry,“ said Ms Broecker. “It was a huge thing to do,“ she said.

Ms Broecker has been a leader with the Upwey Girl Guides for five years and said she enjoys providing a variety of activities for the girls, the Upwey group currently has 32 members and has gone through significant growth.

“I was a girl guide and it has been nice to come back into this space,” said Ms Broecker.

Ms Broecker said that these days there is a huge variety of extracurricular activities kids can do and while not everyone fits into those mainstream categories, people are also often surprised by what the guides get up to - in one activity last year, the girl guides met women from the Hills community that are qualified and work in fields

“We had a volcanologist, a builder and a CEO come in,” said Ms Broecker. “It doesn’t need to be just the gender norms,” she said. “We go on camps, we do roping and lots of outdoor stuff as well. I’m really big on pushing the girl empowerment – this term, we’re doing advocacy, and talking about why it’s so important to have equality between men and women,” she said.

The awards themselves take a lot of time and effort, and Ms Broecker said the JBP takes about six months to complete and the BP award takes about 12 months.

“The JBP Award sets a high standard for guides wanting to push themselves, requiring them to demonstrate leadership, complete personal challenges, and actively contribute to their community,“ she said. “Elke excelled in all these areas, growing in confidence and stepping out of her comfort zone to reach this incredible milestone.“

The BP Award required guides to demonstrate exceptional leadership, community involvement, and the ability to plan and execute complex projects.

“For Rosalie and Lily, earning the BP Award represents the culmination of a year of hard work, resilience, volunteering, selflessness, and dedication,” she said. “Both have grown remarkably through this process, becoming confident and capable young women who embody the values of Girl Guides,” Ms Broecker said.

Ms Broecker said having the three girls receive the awards has in turn inspired the younger members of the unit and Elke, Lily and Rosalie will continue in Girl Guides and start working on the next level up. 2025 will see the Upwey Girl Guides take on more community access and advocacy activities both worldwide and on a local level.

“For those 10 and over, they will have the opportunity to push themselves and go to statewide activity events,” said Ms Broecker.

It has been 17 years since anyone at Upwey Girl Guides has earned the BP award and Ms Broecker said for all three girls, accomplishing this in the same year is a historic moment for the unit.

“At such a young age, Elke, Rosalie, and Lily have shown remarkable strength, perseverance, and leadership,” said Ms Broecker.

Amber Rose Hulme, Resilience 2023 - Image courtesy of FLG and Amber Rose Hulme

Proudly sponsored by Bendigo Bank Upwey and District

From Left: Lily, Elke, Girl Guide Leader Ms Broecker and Rosalie. (Supplied).

Getting ready for bushfire

As the Dandenongs and Yarra Valley enter the pointy end of the fire danger period, local brigades have ramped up their community engagement activities.

This week Sassafras-Ferny Creek fire brigade has been conducting ‘Fire Safety Essential’ sessions, an entry-level program designed to arm residents with basic bushfire safety information and enable them to build upon this to develop family plans that suit their own circumstances.

Long-standing CFA volunteer and community engagement facilitator John Schauble said this summer fire season still has plenty of potential, depending in how the weather pans out over the next few weeks.

“The hills are historically one of the last places in Victoria to face an elevated bushfire risk,” he said.

“We have already seen significant bushfire activity this summer in the Grampians to the west and smaller outbreaks in the Otways and in South Gippsland.”

“Our risk has been moderated locally in recent years by well above average rainfall, but it still only takes a run of a few hot and windy days to create a ‘spike’ in bushfire conditions,” he added.

Public interest in the bushfire risk has been piqued by the recent tragic events around Los Angeles. Mr Schauble – who worked in emergency management at state level and spent time in southern California studying fire prevention measures – said that Victoria and California were ‘same, same but very different’ when it came to wildfire.

Mr Schauble said differences in climate (California has a Mediterranean climate, Victoria a milder temperate one), terrain, wind impacts and vegetation meant that a direct comparison was inappropriate.

Patterns of land use and residential development also varied.

“What we have seen around LA has been wildfires burning downslope through highly flammable vegetation, fanned by ferocious Santa Ana winds, pushing into neighbourhoods in which house-to-house ignition becomes the driving source of fire. It’s a diabolical mix,” he said.

Many major fires in the US over the last 20 to 30 years point to changing climatic conditions and the need for humans to adapt to this, especially when living at close quarters with nature.

“That message is the same whether it be the US, Europe or Australia,” Mr Schauble said.

While it all might seem overwhelming, there is plenty that individuals can do ensure their own safety and to mitigate the bushfire risk around their homes to increase the chance of properties surviving.

“The first key is information - and there’s heaps of that available,” Mr Schauble said.

Contact your local brigade, go to the CFA website or come along to a community meeting to find out more.

To find details of upcoming meetings in the local area and other useful information, go to https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/home/local-information

Don’t forget hard waste

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.

“Hard waste is the perfect opportunity to get rid of items that can be more difficult to dispose of,” Cr Child said.

“You can get rid of appliances and e-waste, metals, bundled branches and bulky items, all in the spot where your wheelie bins are usually collected.

“Collections in the Yarra Valley will start in late-January, while the Dandenong Ranges will have collections closer to March. You should always check yarraranges.vic.gov.au/ hardwaste for your collection week so you don’t miss out.”

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 poweroperated 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.

The Emerald and District Rotary Club, in conjunction with EDRA (Eastern Dandenong Ranges Association), will be holding this prestigious awards night at the Emerald Lake Discovery Centre on Tuesday 18th March this year and invite community groups, volunteer organisations and businesses to join us.

Entrance simply requires that the business nominate a staff member, group member or volunteer who they deem to be a worthy recipient of this award so that we can collectively celebrate those people who have gone above and beyond in their field of work or within the community.

Recognising those who embody the Rotary ethos of ‘Service above Self’ ensures that our Club encourages staff within our community to go the extra mile which in turn creates greater job satisfaction and a continued desire to excel. This award creates a huge sense of pride for the business and recipient alike and has been very well supported in the years to date.

To find out more about this event or to nominate an individual please use the following link: www.emeraldrotary.org.au/page/vocational or contact Ian Ash via ianash@ombs.com.au or mobile: 0418 366 418.

Locals attending a Fire Safety Essentials meeting at Sassafras-Ferny Creek fire station. (Supplied).

Water safety is so crucial

By Mikayla Van Loon

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 increases 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 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)

Former Yering Primary School student Jordan taking part in the river kayaking event hosted at Doon Reserve. (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 eachyearmakesforadifficultprocessindeciding 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,commendingindividualsandgroupsfrom

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)

Individual leaders, environmentalists and community groups are among those recognised in the awards. (File: 317036)

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)

Life-saver is installed

The Ferny Creek Scout Group recently installed a defibrillator at the scout hall to serve the local community.

It is located on the outside of the scout hall, both the scout group and the wider community are grateful to Bendigo Bank. Bendigo Bank were generous to give the group a grant to purchase what is now the fourth defib in the Hills community.

Using electricity, a defibrillator is a device that uses to re-start the heart or shock it back into a normal rhythm and automated external defibrillators (AED) like the one installed are usually found in public spaces and can be used by anyone.

Pamela Lambert, the Ferny Creek Assistant Group Leader also organised a First Aid training evening in conjunction with Ambulance Victoria to show the Cubs, Scouts, Leaders, and parents how the life saving device works.

There were lessons on performing CPR, as well as singing the Bee Gee’s, ‘Stayin’ Alive’, to

teach everyone the rhythm for compressions (100/120 beats per minute).

CPR can save lives, but needs to be started as soon as possible. It is also important to call 000 or 112 immediately to request an ambulance.

The kids learnt all about CPR and how the steps involved in CPR can be remembered through the acronym: DRS ABCD:

• D: Check for DANGER.

• R: Are they RESPONDING?

• S: SEND for help.

• A: Check for clear AIRWAYS.

• B: Check for BREATHING.

• C: Start CPR - 30 chest compressions, two mouth breaths (with facemask). Repeat until help arrives.

• D: Use the DEFIBRILLATOR.

People should then listen to the voice prompts on the defib machine.

CPR is a skill that everyone can learn. Contact your nearest Training Centre to enrol in a course.

Great capture by twitcher

By Tanya Steele

An twitching enthusiast who resides in Emerald sent in a lovely shot of a Spotted Pardalote to the Star Mail on the afternoon of Friday 10 January.

The bird lives in their backyard and the shot has captured a lovely moment in the tiny bird’s day.

Twitching is a term used among the bird watching community for anyone who will stop at nothing to catch sight of any bird.

These passionate birdwatchers will travel great lengths to spot their favourite avian and twitching is a global phenomenon.

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.

The spotted pardalote is a sometimes quite elusive local bird.

While still fairly common in urban areas of a Australia with a high concentration of eucalypts. Nests have occasionally been discovered in places like carpet rolls and garage roll-up doors.

The little bird is typically found high in the eucalypt canopy, making it more commonly identified by its distinctive call.

The male has black wings, tail, and head, adorned with small, noticeable white spots.

The males also have a pale eyebrow, yellow throat, and red rump. Females resemble males but have less prominent markings.

QFF

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.

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.

The spotted pardalote in flight. (Shannon Worrall)

Practising life-saving scenarios, with a side of disco to keep time. (Supplied).

Create your own heroes

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Teens looking to bring their creative characters to life are invited to join local artist and entrepreneur Tony Midson for a DIY Fantasy Hero workshop at Belgrave Library next Thursday 23 January, from 2pm to 3.30pm.

Tony, who runs Thrive Art Studio, will help young artists design their own fantasy hero characters - whether they’re imagining a wizard, knight, elf, or goblin.

Using traditional drawing techniques, participants will learn professional tips and tricks to create dynamic characters, focusing on design, anatomy, personality, and accessories.

“Fantasy characters are a lot of fun to create because there are no limits,” Mr Midson said.

“We’ll explore everything from body types to costumes and gadgets, helping each participant develop a truly unique hero with a strong personality.”

This workshop, aimed at teens aged 12-18, will teach skills that apply to both traditional and digital art. While the focus will be on pen and paper, those who prefer to draw on digital devices like iPads are welcome to bring them along.

SNIPPETS

MAIL SNIPPETS

Exciting school holiday activities at Belgrave Library

Head to Belgrave Library these school holidays for a range of fun activities for kids of all ages!

From crafting sailing boats and coding with VinciBots to playing board games and building massive train tracks, there’s something for everyone.

Family Board Games Day

Tuesday 21 January 9am-5pm

Drop in any time and have fun playing a variety of kid friendly board games!

Ages four-12

No bookings required

Food relief pop-up stall

People in the Upwey and Hills community have been invited to a food relief pop up stall next week in Upwey.

Valley, Ranges inspires special Monopoly edition

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 famous 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.

With over 30 years of experience in comic book art and teaching, Mr Midson has built a reputation for inspiring young artists through handson workshops.

His passion for sharing creative skills has made his sessions at libraries across the area increasingly popular.

“It’s great to see teens embrace their creativity and really run with their ideas,“ he said.

“I love helping them work through challenges and watching their skills grow.“

Mr Midson’s workshops often fill up quickly, so bookings are essential.

The Teens-DIY Fantasy Hero workshop is also happening at Rowville Library on Wednesday 22 January, for those unable to make it to Belgrave.

To reserve your spot, visit yourlibrary.com.au or call Belgrave Library on, 9800 6489.

With space limited to just 20 participants, early registration is recommended to ensure a place in this exciting and creative workshop.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of an afternoon of imagination and artistic fun at Belgrave Library next Thursday.

Foothills Community Care will host a pop-up market on Tuesday 21 January for anyone who needs it.

From 12.20 to 2pm at the Upwey Baptist Church, 21 Darling Ave - The volunteers will be giving away free fresh produce to anyone who needs it.

No bookings required.

People should bring your own bags (with a limit of two per person so the group can share the love).

Foothills gave big thanks to their friends at Outer East Foodshare on social media on Friday 17 January for helping with the event.

Fun With Trains

Wednesday 22 January 9am-5pm

Make the biggest train tack ever with our huge collection of trains and tracks!

All ages

No bookings required

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

Join Tony Midson for a DIY Fantasy Hero workshop at Belgrave Library on Thursday 23 January. (Unsplash)

Dedication is honoured

By Tanya Steele

Connecting community across the airwaves, a volunteer broadcaster reading the news in Upwey at 3MDR has gained recognition for her work for the Tamil-speaking community in Melbourne.

Saranya Balakrishnan received a Bruce Volunteer Recognition Award in Dandenong on 2 December 2024. Star Mail Journalist Tanya Steele caught up with this inspiring media volunteer to find out how it all began.

‘Gathering information and sharing with others is something I truly enjoy,” said Ms Balakrishnan, who has volunteered with the team at 3MDR nearly every Sunday for eight years.

“I was really, really surprised because I didn’t expect any award for my work,” she said.

The newsreader was congratulated across social media on January 10 by her fellow volunteers and the team at 3MDR in Upwey where she has honed her skills as a broadcaster, providing a dedicated voice to connect communities across the globe.

“Saranya has played an instrumental role in her community through her voluntary work as an Emcee in Melbourne,” the post read.

“Her role as a Tamil news anchor reporter at 3MDR 97.1 FM has allowed her to share important news and keep the community informed, ensuring that the Tamil diaspora remains connected with both local and global events.”

Ms Balakrishnan along with many other volunteers received her award at a ceremony held in Dandenong.

Julian Hill MP, Federal Member for Bruce and Assistant Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs presented at the ceremony, along with the City Council of Dandenong, led by Mayor Jim Memeti who acknowledged and applauded Ms Balakrishnan’s work.

Recalling the day as she shared a stage with others receiving recognition in her community, Ms Balakrishnan said she felt honoured to be alongside many people in her community who had been volunteering for such a long time.

“They had been working so many years – and I thought, we are doing something valuable,” she said.

Ms Balakrishnan said she would also like to thank her team at the 3MDR radio station for their continuous support and encouragement.

“Working at a radio station has always been my dream job,” she said.

First going to air on April 9, 1994, the Sanganatham Tamil Community Volunteer Broadcasting team has provided a vital space for the Tamilspeaking population in Melbourne to tune into.

As a news reader, emcee and more, Ms Balakrishnan has been contributing with fellow longtime volunteers Wicki Wickiramasingham and Senthil Nathan for the Tamil community on the Sanganatham program since 2016.

She has also made contributions to Channel 31 as VJ for the Tamil Oli program and also acts as an emcee across Melbourne for many cultural and musical events.

Having a longstanding interest in community and connection from a young age in India, Ms Balakrishnan said she has always been a social person and loves connecting with people.

“I used to contribute to the school prayer sessions,” she said.

When Ms Balakrishnan moved to Australia in 2013 she said it gave her a new opportunity to develop her skills in media and communication.

“After coming here, I thought why can’t I try here? It’s in the mindset,” she said.

After searching for Tamil radio stations in Melbourne she found the 3MDR Sanganatham Tamil Radio show online.

“I contacted them and went straight to the station the next day, I shared my knowledge and interest in working with them, and that’s how my journey in radio began. I’ve been working there ever since,” she said.

Julian Hill MP said Ms Balakrishnan has had such a positive impact on their local community through her work and that presenting her with a Bruce Volunteer Award was ‘an absolute pleasure’.

“Showing a profound commitment to volunteerism and community engagement, Ms Balakrishnan uses her platform to amplify local Tamil voices – fostering unity and celebrating Tamil Australians rich heritage,” he said.

The Bruce Volunteer Recognition Awards are an annual tradition in the south-east, celebrating individuals whose volunteer efforts create positive change within their communities.

Ms Balakrishnan said the core purpose of her work is in her language – Tamil.

“I love speaking in Tamil, and I aim to promote it across various platforms, to encourage the youngsters to incorporate it into their daily lives here,” she said.

Tamil is one of the oldest living languages, with over 2,000 years of literary tradition. Spoken primarily in Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka, it belongs to the Dravidian family and is rich in poetry, philosophy, and culture.

“As a classical language, Tamil remains vibrant and widely spoken today, making it a cornerstone of South Indian identity and heritage,” Ms Balakrishnan said.

A meaningful Tamil phrase related to community service and Tamil language is as follows:

Periya pa?iy???uvatu makka?i? c?v?yi??? t??

“Great work is done through service to the people.“

Ms Balakrishnan said this phrase emphasizes the importance of serving the community and reflects the idea that true greatness comes from

helping others.

“It aligns well with Tamil culture, which values social harmony and service to the greater good,” she said.

In her time at 3MDR Ms Balakrishnan said she has come across many people and their life stories and that she has also seen growth in the Tamil community.

“I can see people are getting motivated and inspired,” she said.

“We can get knowledge, or whatever help they want from the radio community.”

Ms Balakrishnan lives with her family in Cranbourne West and she said they are the ‘backbone’ of what she does and has always approached her volunteering as a job.

“I’m coming to this at 100 per cent,” she said.

The radio newsreader dedicated her award to her family— her husband and two kids.

“They always support and help with my work,” she said.

“We are representing our community, and we are representing our people around us, and we can show what people are facing.”

Even when going through the birth of her children and travelling home to visit her parents, Ms Balakrishnan has sent her work through to her team at 3MDR.

“I just got discharged from the hospital, and I came to my home, and I straight away went to the recording room,” she said.

“I always feel that moment was reflective of how deeply I am involved in this work,” she said.

A great believer in the power of radio, Ms Balakrishnan said she has been further inspired to do more than news updates and has launched a new program for 2025 surrounding a ‘No Plastic’ campaign.

“I wanted to offer something truly valuable to the community, something that can benefit their everyday lives,” she said.

The dedicated newsreader will continue to serve her community and people can tune into her show every Sunday – she said she now feels an even greater sense of responsibility for what she does and is eager to give back to the community more and more in the coming years.

“My whole soul is fully connected, I feel so proud of myself and of how I did all these things,” she said.

Even when going through the birth of her children and travelling home to visit her parents, Ms Balakrishnan has sent her work through to her team at 3MDR.

Indian news reader Saranya Balakrishnan (middle) received a volunteer recognition award from Julian Hill MP (left) alongside City of Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti Mayor. (Supplied)

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 second horror remake

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.

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.

PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

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:

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.

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-

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

“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

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

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

Wolf Man

LUXURY AND STYLE MEETS COUNTRY LIFESTYLE

LUXURY AND STYLE MEETS COUNTRY LIFESTYLE ON A CAPTIVATING 5 ACRES

POSITIONED in one of Emerald’s most highly sought-after locations; this outstanding architecturally designed home has been constructed with the utmost attention to detail.

Appealing to those who appreciate quality and style, every detail has been carefully considered; striking timber features, hardwood floors, huge windows, square set ceilings, and quality fixtures and fittings throughout all add to the grandeur of the home.

Entertainers will relish in the impressive living zones; the first spacious lounge boasts a central suspended fire place that creates a cozy ambiance to sit back and relax around on cooler evenings whilst you take in the breathtaking garden landscape. In the heart of the home, discover the open plan living space that is ideal for entertaining and will impress your guests.

The impressive kitchen has been carefully designed to suit the chef of the family; the island bench with waterfall stone benchtop has an extendable stainless steel countertop ideal for food preparation, as well as a bounty of additional storage space.

Other noteworthy features include floor to ceiling cabinetry and quality appliances including an Ilve oven, Miele microwave and steam oven, integrated Miele Dishwasher and an integrated Liebherr fridge. The dining area opens completely to the decked entertaining area to create a seamless indoor/outdoor living set up. An adjoining sunken lounge offers a more relaxed living space with direct access to the decked patio.

The master suite is something to behold, featuring a fully fitted walk in wardrobe and modern ensuite bathroom complete with floating vanity, floor to ceiling tiling and rain shower head, this is a true parents retreat.

The secondary bedrooms both with fully fitted built in wardrobes are separately zoned.

The huge family bathroom offers a tranquil place to relax in the freestanding bath whilst you enjoy the leafy outlook; floor to ceiling tiling, rain shower head and floating vanity add to the feel.

If you require a work from home set up, the fully fitted home office with built in desk and cabinetry will surely tick all the boxes or could easily be reconfigured as bedroom four if required.

The laundry offers an abundance of storage, waterfall stone benchtop, built in laundry baskets and walk in broom cupboard. For year-round comfort there is zoned ducted heating and cooling.

There is a double garage with remote access and workshop with internal access also under roofline.

Outside the embellishments continue, a contemporary Japanese inspired bath house with restful garden views offers versatility to suit your needs, whether you continue the vision and create a soothing bath house or create an art studio or yoga studio, the possibilities are endless.

For the green thumb there is a variety of fruit trees scattered on the property along with raised vegetable gardens and a handy garden shed. The balance of the property has been completely landscaped to create a private oasis, with beautiful established plantings, magnificent shade trees and vibrant florals.

Striking granite features throughout add to the opulence.

Located just a stones throw from the thriving Emerald township; schools, cafes, sporting grounds, public transport, walking trails and parkland are all at your fingertips.

All this and we have only just scratched the surface, this is a property that needs to be seen to be believed. Inspect with absolute confidence.

FABULOUS FIRST HOME RIPE FOR RENOVATIONS

THE possibilities are endless at this charming weatherboard home in prime position between lush parkland and lively Tecoma township. Ideal as a comfortable first home with scope to update to your own style in future, this is a splendid investment in a superb lifestyle location.

The 1,281sqm (approx.) landscape that frames this home features a sealed drive with single carport, terraced garden areas, and recreational vehicle parking. For entertaining, dine outdoors under the alfresco with cafe blinds overlooking the leafy surrounds. Inside, the split-level layout is enriched with floor to ceiling windows, timber floors, vaulted ceilings, and a warm wood fire in the bright lounge and dining area. With works needed to the flooring and kitchen this property is ripe for renovation. The original kitchen boasts slate floors and modern appliances including a gas cooktop and stainless steel wall oven and dishwasher.

Three spacious bedrooms, including the main bedroom with huge walk-in robe which could later be converted into an ensuite (STCA), provide ample accommodation and the classic bathroom is enhanced with a sunny skylight.

With a bounty of appealing features, a lovely landscape, and a convenient position near transport, schools, shopping, and parks, this is the perfect place to start or supplement your property portfolio. Plan your viewing today.

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.

HOME FOCUS

ESCAPE TO YOUR OWN 11-ACRES

READY to trade the hustle and bustle for wide-open spaces, fresh air, and a whole lot of fun? This incredible 11-acre property in beautiful Gembrook is your ticket to peaceful, adventurous living with all the comforts of modern life - and a few surprises thrown in for good measure.

As you pull up , you’ll be greeted by an immaculate and freshly painted 3 bedroom home that’s as charming as it is inviting. The undercover verandah practically begs you to grab a coffee and soak in the serenity before stepping inside. Once through the front door, it’s all about the wow factor: high, pitched ceilings, massive windows that bring the outside in, and a woodfire heater that’s perfect for snuggling up on chilly nights. Don’t worry; there’s a split system too, so you’re comfortable no matter the season.

The open-plan kitchen and dining area is where the magic happens. With its gleaming timber floors, heaps of storage and bench space, and an integrated oven with a gas stove, this space is built for everything from pancake Sundays to dinner parties that impress. Plus, the large pantry and garden views will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a cooking show.

The master bedroom is your personal retreat, complete with a walk-in robe. A second bedroom makes a perfect guest room, home office, or secret nap spot. Down the hall, you’ll find a third bedroom, a family bathroom with a separate toilet, and a spacious, newly updated

laundry with plenty of storage.

Outside, you’ve got an 8m x 15m x 3.5m workshop/shed that’s ready for all your projects, hobbies, or maybe just a giant stash of fun stuff. There’s even a shed/studio with 2 spacious rooms, storage, woodfire, and access to its own bathroom—perfect for guests, teens, or your own little getaway space. Add in a 3kW solar system, a whopping 120,000 litres of water storage across six tanks, a chicken palace (aka the chook shed), a wood shed, and a secure storage container, and you’re set for self-sufficient living with style.

The best part? The grounds are a nature lover’s paradise. Think stunning views, endless birdlife, and curious wildlife popping by to say hello. Whether you’re gardening, exploring, or just soaking up the peace and quiet, this is a place where life feels a little lighter and a lot more fun.

So pack your sense of adventure, your love for the great outdoors and all your machine, floats, boats and vans —this is the Gembrook retreat you’ve been dreaming of. Endless possibilities, endless fun, and a lifestyle you’ll never want to leave!

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

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

“ROSEDALE”

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

AaronDay M 0407365994

BethanySullivan M 0438844968

11-13FirstAvenueCockatoo$1,050,000

BeautifullyRenovated5 BedroomFamilyHome +BungalowonanAcre! Situatedonjustover 1acreofflatland,thisstunninghomewithwraparoundverandahhasallthe creaturecomforts.Featuringa long,centralhallway &9ftceilingsthroughout.Fromthespacious laundry,tothelargeopenloungewithanelectricfireplace.Meanderingdownthehallyouwillfind 5stylishbedrooms,theMasterwithFrenchdoorsopeningontotherearverandah, alargewalkthroughrobe& ensuite.Thefamilybathroomisgenerousinsize,& offers abath, &shower.Addto this aseparatediningroomwithFrenchdoorstotheverandah.Thekitcheniswell-appointedwitha hugeislandbenchwithstonetop,newfreestanding900mmgas/electricstove,D/W,& WIP. Outside,hasa 2BRbungalowwithlounge& kitchenette,thepropertyisfullyfenced.Addtothisa workshopwithconcretefloor &power.

SamanthaScott M 0438680032

SpaciousFamilyRetreatwithScenicViews! Seton4070sqminGembrook,Justa shortdistancefromtheheartoftown,thepropertyenjoysa serenesetting.A horseshoedrivewayguidesyoutothetiledentrywaythatwelcomesyouintothe home.Themastersuitefeaturesa walk-throughwardrobe& ensuite.Theloungeroomflowsintothe largerumpusroom,withbuiltinbar& accesstotheoutdoorareawith abrickfireplace.Thekitchen istheheartofthehome,withextensivebenchspace,integratedoven,gascooktop& splitsystem, thoughthehomedoeshaveGDHthroughout.Theformaldiningroom/studyprovidesversatility& opensontothefrontdeck. 3additionalbedroomseachwithBIR,a centralbathroom &separate toilet.Outside, adoublegarage, a10m x6mshedwitha concretefloor &power,a 4.5mx8mshed with aconcretefloor &7kVAgenerator.

AaronDay M 0407365994

BrennanMileto M 0422996451 4

6StanleyStreetOlinda

DoubleStorey 3BedHome,EntertainersDream!

$950,000 -$1,040,000

ThisCharmingdoublestoreyhomeinOlinda,seton aspacious1124sqmblock,combinescomfort withelegance.Thepropertyfeaturesaninvitingundercoververandahthatleadstotheentryway. Inside,thereare3 carpetedbedroomswithBIR,themasterwithensuite.Themainleveloffersan expansiveopen-planlounge,dining,kitchenarea.Solidtimberflooring,largewindows&awood heater,complementedbyGDHthroughoutaswellasductedS/Stothebedrooms.Theentertainer’s kitchenincludesbeautifultimberbenchtops,abundanceofstorage &qualitystainlesssteeloven& dishwasher.Stepdirectlyfromthekitchenontothedeck.A staircaseleadsdownto alargerumpus/ theatreroomwithstylishfloatingtimberflooring,gaslogfire.Largebi-foldglassdoorsopenouttoan additionaloutdoorarea.Thehomealsoofferspracticalunder-housestorage.

7 A 2 B

HOME FOCUS

LIFESTYLE, LOCATION AND DUAL OCCUPANCY

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

Crucial wins for Monbulk

By Jack Rollings

Saturday pennant resumed this week with round 10. In an unusual coincidence of the draw, both Monbulk sides played Upwey/Tecoma sides, one away and one at home. Monbulk 1 played Upwey/Tecoma at Upwey.

Jim Bras’ team struggled in the first third, winning only one end and trailing by 6 shots. Then, in the next three ends, they picked up 8 shots, to take the lead. The next end Upwey picked up a big 6 shotter to retake the lead. Both teams dropped some big scores in sight of the finish line, but Upwey finished the stronger team. Monbulk lost the rink 23 shots to 27.

Eric Markham’s team dropped a bad 6 shotter on the first end. Far from demoralised, they won the next eight ends to lead by 10 shots going into the tenth end. Upwey managed some small wins, but the Monbulk team dominated for the majority of the match. When Upwey finished with three good ends it was all too late. Monbulk won the rink 28 shots to 15.

Brian Smith’s rink was a low-scoring match with neither side ready to concede multiples. The first third was fairly even, then Monbulk edged ahead with the only 3 shotter for the match and they were able to defend their margin to the finish. Monbulk won the rink 17 shots to 11.

Tony French’s team led for most of the afternoon, picking up several multiples. They held a 10 shot lead going into the final third. Then Upwey reset for the run home, playing with a lot more confidence. Going into the last end Monbulk still led by 3 shots but disaster struck when the last three Monbulk bowls went long into the ditch and Upwey grabbed 4 shots.

Monbulk lost the rink 21 shots to 22. Overall Monbulk won the round 89 shots to 75 with two rinks up. Monbulk is now sixth on the ladder with a 5/5 win/loss ratio. Next Saturday Monbulk plays Lilydale at home. Lilydale may be second on the ladder, but they have recorded only one more win than Monbulk.

Trades & Services

A Monbulk win is within reach.

Monbulk 2 played at home against the second side from Upwey/Tecoma.

Case Broekhof’s rink experienced a day of fluctuating action, with frequent level scores, lead changes, and multiple shots scored by both teams. Going into the seventeenth end the scores were still locked at 15 shots all. Upwey got their noses in front. Then Monbulk picked up a great 4 shotter on the last end to reduce the margin but unfortunately still falling short of the win. They lost the rink 20 shots to 21. Andy Smith’s

team had close results for the first two thirds of the day. Going into the fifteenth end the scores were 11 shots all. Then Monbulk picked up a handy 5 shotter to take over the lead, then another 3 shotter with just five ends to go. Upwey won some final ends but couldn’t make up for the multiples. Monbulk won the rink 20 shots to 17.

Peter Lee’s team struggled in the front half, trailing by 7 shots. Then in the middle of the game they picked up five ends in a row for a total of 12 shots, to take the lead by 7 shots. It was a strong turnaround. In the run home Upwey picked up four ends but all for singles.

Monbulk was able to hold onto their lead and take the rink 20 shots to 16. Peter Koomen’s team only dropped three ends in the first two thirds of the match. Going into the fifteenth end they were 14 shots up. Upwey ran home strongly but their wins were mainly singles and Monbulk was able to hold onto the win 25 shots to 18.

Overall Monbulk 2 won the round with 85 shots to 72, and three rinks up. Monbulk 2 is now sixth on the ladder with a 5/5 win/loss ratio. Next week Monbulk 2 will travel to Cockatoo. A strong win there could have Monbulk 2 knocking on the door of a top four spot.

I/We Matthew’s Liquor Armstrong Creek P/L at Harry Brown applied to Liquor Control Victoria on 06 of December 2024 for the grant of a packaged liquor licence at Shop 37/1880 Ferntree Gully, Ferntree Gully. Monday to Saturday 9:00am – 9:00pm, Sunday 10:00am – 9:00pm, Public holidays 9:00am – 11:00pm including Christmas day, and Easter (Good Friday) ANZAC Day 12:00pm – 11:00pm. Any person may object to the grant of this application on the grounds that:

•it would detract from, or be detrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises are situated, and/or

•it would be conducive to or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol. An objection must state the reasons for the objection. All objections are treated as public documents.

Objections must be made in writing to: Liquor Control Victoria PO Box 1019 Richmond VIC 3121

Objections must be made no later than 30 days after the date of this notice.

Dion Addison showing perfect balance in Monbulk’s strongest rink. (Supplied)

Mixed fortunes for Tigers

By Sean Talbot

It was another successful weekend of Tigers baseball this past weekend, with three of the Tigers seven teams picking up wins and another adding a draw in a sun-drenched weekend of baseball.

As all teams approach the pointy end of the season, Upwey finds itself in a position where all seven senior weekend teams are either secure for a spot in finals or are within striking distance of securing a top-four spot, information that will certainly buoy the spirits of all Tigers and Tigresses and provide the coaching staff with the motivation to keep working to help all players improve for a final push over the coming weeks.

Hosting the visiting Malvern Braves, the Firsts scored in five of their eight offensive innings to do more than enough to take the points, running out eventual winners 7-1. Highlighted by huge days from Jack Ratcliffe (four hits, two RBIs) and Flynn Morrison (three hits incl. a home run, four RBIs), the Tigers were able to rack up 13 team hits and five walks to ensure the offensive pressure was firmly applied to the visitors who were no match for the home side.

Staff ace Jarrod Turner got the starting nod on the day and picked up the win, working seven no-fuss innings that saw him surrender just five hits (all singles) and one earned run while issuing no free passes before teenage closer Ryder Wilson worked a scoreless eighth and ninth inning, the pair combining to give the Braves almost no chances to mount any offensive momentum, with the visitors lone run scoring in the second inning on the back of two singles and an RBI groundball.

Despite missing regular starters Josh Hendricks and Pete Schroeders, the Tigers revamped lineup made the Malvern pitchers work hard all day, with seven of the nine starters recording base hits, led by Ratcliffe, Morrison and DH Randy Senn (two hits). The top-to-bottom offensive showing is just the latest example of the Tigers depth and versatility in a season which sees them loaded with two players hitting above .400 and eight hitting above .300, while Turner is again the workhorse at the front of a rotation balanced by veterans and young arms.

The Tigers will look to ride their momentum into the coming week which will see them head to Greenwich Reserve to take on Williamstown Wolves, (Tuesday midweek) before taking a road trip down the Princes Freeway on Saturday to tackle the Geelong Baycats, both games which promise to be highly entertaining.

Hosting the Braves in the early game, the Seconds did enough early to survive a late charge from the visitors to hold on for a hard-fought, 3-2 win over the visitors. With pitcher Pat Gawith getting the start and spinning arguably his best performance of the season (five innings, three hits, 0 runs, nine K’s), and closer Dan Smith (one inning) keeping the Malvern bats in check, runs were at a premium as both sides combined for just six hits on the day, with Kyle Hubbard being the only Tiger to hit safely.

Despite the lack of base hits, the Tigers drew 10 walks and stole seven bases, more than enough to score once in the fourth and twice in the fifth to give Gawith and Smith all the run support they would require picking up the win on the day, Upwey’s 10th of the season. While the score may suggest Upwey struggled offensively, the home side put together patient atbats and unselfishly took a team approach at the plate, a feature of the Tigers team first approach that head coach Ben Thorn has been instrumental in implementing.

The win sees Upwey’s record improve to 10-3 on the season, good enough for third place on the league ladder while remaining within 1.5 games of first placed Geelong, whom the Tigers will face in Geelong this coming weekend.

Travelling to AW Oliver Reserve to take on Moorabbin, the Thirds were unable to make up enough ground after the hosts scored a gamebreaking four runs in the bottom of the first inning, taking the loss in a hard fought 5-4 result on Sunday.

Getting the jump on the home team by scoring in the top of the first inning after a Russell Jeffery leadoff walk and a Richard Ferguson double, the visitors were then left playing catch-

up as a combination of five hits, a walk and a hit batter saw the Panthers send 10 hitters to the plate, heading to the second inning holding a 4-1 lead.

Scores remained unchanged until the bottom of the fourth inning when Moorabbin tacked on another run to lead 5-1 before a scoreless fifth inning set the stage for a potential late-game rally from the Tigers. With leadoff Riley Johnson reaching on a four-pitch walk, the Tigers used two hits, a hit batter and some aggressive baserunning to score three runs, however the Panthers were able to apply the clamps to the rally, stranding the tying run at third to secure the points.

Despite the loss, the Tigers still firmly hold onto second place on the ladder as they prepare to face seventh-placed Melbourne in a fortnights time.

Playing the curtain raiser, the Fourths were met with a Panther shaped brick wall as the hosts were too much on the day, putting a stranglehold on the Tigers offense and keeping the visitors to just a solitary base hit off the bat of Tim Young.

With steady hands Dom McGrath and Richard Ferguson sharing pitching duties, the Tigers were always within striking distance despite trailing 3-1 heading into the fifth inning, however a four-run fifth inning from Moorabbin chewed the clock down and ensured there would not be enough time for Upwey to have one last roll of the dice and a chance to steal victory from the jaws of defeat.

Credit must go to Moorabbin’s starting pitcher who threw a complete game, surrendering just the one hit and making life hard for the Upwey hitters.

Despite what the scoreboard showed, the Tigers had a good approach at the plate and made the home side earn their outs, but at the end of the day it was unfortunately not enough to get over the line. Upwey will be on the road to Surrey Park to take on Melbourne after the Australia Day weekend.

Hosting the visiting Chelsea Dolphins, the Fifths pulled a rabbit out of their hat with their last turn at bat, coming from behind to secure a thrilling 10-9 walk-off win.

This is a huge achievement for the team, especially considering the early season demolition job the Dolphins did on the Tigers in Round Four which saw them walk away with an 18-1 blowout win. Stats are unfortunately unavailable for this game, however the mood around the team is said to be high as the players revel in their best win of the season to date.

Playing the early game, the Sixths poured on the offense as they traded leads with the Dolphins multiple times throughout the day before time ran out before either side could throw a knockout blow, an 11-11 draw a fitting result for a game full of offensive effort and indicative of the quality of the competition in the league.

As is the case with the Fifths, the Sixths managed to avenge their 10-2 loss in Round 4 to Chelsea, a result which would undoubtedly give the playing group great pause and momentum

heading into their next game in two weeks time.

Playing the morning game at the Tiger Dome on Saturday, the Tigresses found themselves trading multiple seven-run innings with the visiting Springvale. The Big Cats scored three runs in the second and a lone run in the fourth, enough to get over the line in the eventual 18-15 result that saw an extremely competitive offensive showing from both clubs.

With young arms Caitlin Kiel and Hayley Mather sharing pitching duties for the home side and doing a fantastic job keeping their defense in the game, the Tigresses proceeded to apply their usual brand of offensive pressure, racking up nine hits, seven walks and an outrageous 17 team stolen bases, led by speed demons Jess McDonald (five), Chelsea Mosbey (three), Elinor Jack, Mather and salty veteran Marika Booth (two each).

Jack and Mosbey (two hits each) led the way for Upwey, while Booth, McDonald, Victoria Chinn, Mather and Annaleise Best all chipped in with up one hit each.

Despite the Tigers constant offensive pressure, the Big Cats held tough and matched Upwey run for run, picking up 14 hits and seven walks as a team to create some breathing room in the second inning and seal the win in the fourth inning as they were able to keep the Tigresses scoreless.

Despite the loss, the Tigresses maintain third place on the ladder, as they turn their attention to Saturday week which will see them take on Pakenham White at Kings Park.

Upwey club coach Donavon Hendricks holds court pre-game. (Adam Battye)