Mail - Mt Evelyn Star Mail - 28th January 2025 by Star News Group

Service wins

Locals with collective decades of experience contributing to the Yarra Ranges Community have been awarded for their passion and commitment, as part of the Council’s Community Awards handed out on Australia Day.

The awards, announced following the Council’s Australia Day 2025 Citizenship Ceremony on 26 January, recognised volunteering, environmental protection and advocacy for vulnerable community members.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child congratulated the award winners for their efforts.

“Every year, we select community members who have put in an outstanding amount of effort to help others, and I’m proud of this year’s cohort of winners,” Cr Child said.

“Year-on-year, what binds our winners together is a genuine care for others; a want to make the world better, and the willingness to put their hands up to make it happen. It’s a really special thing when people go the extra mile for others or put consistent work in to make our little corner of the world better than it was before.

“There are so many Yarra Ranges residents deserving of an award, and I hope reading about this year’s recipients inspires people to nominate those around them later this year.”

Starting from page 8

Park masterplan

By Mikayla van Loon

Yarra Ranges Council has reaffirmed its decision to keep the former Kilsyth pool site as open space, with a masterplan set to be developed later this year.

Local advocates are pushing for the new facility to include a 50-metre indoor pool at Kilsyth, emphasizing the community’s need for access to swimming facilities.

Council has committed to exploring opportu-

nities for the area while also working on a business case for a new urban aquatics and leisure facility in nearby locations like Lilydale.

Components of an aquatics and leisure facility being explored include an indoor lap pool, learn to swim program pool, group fitness room, steam and sauna, gym and cafe.

Rebuild Our Kilsyth Pool lead petitioner Janis Floyd said the hope of the group in 2025, with both of these plans being looked at, is that the urban community will get a chance to put forward

their wants and needs.

“Our argument is, of course, that there’s already land in Kilsyth, and it already has the utilities there. It has parking there. It’s easy for elderly people to drive there. It’s just straight up and down Hawthory Road,” she said.

“So to most of the people who signed the petition, that seemed to be their preferred option.

“What we’re hoping for is that when the masterplan for Kiloran reserve comes out, there will

be community consultation within the urban area of that plan. And we’re hoping that that plan will include a swimming pool, a 50 metre indoor, open all year swimming pool, just like we had before.”

The council will include community consultation as part of the planning process, confirming in an update on Monday 20 January the preparations “include community broad consultation seeking ideas and feedback”.

Man charged after motorcycle fatality

Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man in relation to a fatal collision in Powelltown earlier this month.

Police executed a search warrant this morning and arrested the 22-year-old Mooroolbark man. He’s been charged with:

• Culpable driving causing death

• Negligently causing serious injury

• Dangerous driving causing death

• Dangerous driving causing serious injury

• Reckless conduct endangering life

• Reckless conduct endangering serious injury

• Driving in a dangerous manner

• Driving at a dangerous speed

• Careless driving

He was also given an immediate driving ban.

The charges follow an incident where two motorcyclists were allegedly travelling at high speeds east on Yarra Junction-Noojee Road on 8 January.

One of the riders, a 23-year-old Northcote man, was involved in a head-on collision with an unrelated motorcyclist, a 77-year-old Croydon man, who was travelling west about 1.30pm.

The 77-year-old rider was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries where he remains in a stable condition.

The 23-year-old rider died at the scene.

The 22-year-old Mooroolbark man, who was riding behind the deceased at the time of the collision, was not injured.

He was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 29 January.

Person dies after crash with tree

A person has died after their car collided with a tree in Mount Evelyn early on Tuesday 21 January.

Police are investigating but it is understood a vehicle crashed into a tree on Clegg Road at about 3.50am.

The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, who is yet to be formally identified, died at the scene.

Emergency services closed Clegg Road in both directions between Littlejohn Avenue and Wellington Road

“This closure is under the control of emergency services and the road will reopen only when it’s safe to do so,” the VicTraffic alert stated.

The exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be established and the investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or with footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au

Vaccinate against measles before travelling overseas

Victorians are being encouraged to protect themselves and their families from measles by ensuring they are immunised, with outbreaks overseas posing a particular risk to those travelling to South-East Asia – particularly Vietnam at present.

It comes after two new measles cases were identified in Victoria on Friday following overseas travel, with the cases having attended multiple public places throughout Melbourne while infectious from 13 to 16 January 2025. A list of exposure sites is available online.

There has been an increase in reported cases of measles in Australia in recent weeks, with many cases linked to travel to Vietnam, where there is a large measles outbreak occurring It is strongly advised that anyone travelling overseas who may not have been vaccinated against measles receives the measles vaccine before travelling.

Infants in Victoria are eligible for a measles vaccine from six months of age if they are travelling to a country where measles is present, which is six months earlier than routinely scheduled.

“The last thing anyone wants when travelling overseas is to put their child at risk from a lethal disease – vaccination against measles is safe, effective, and free,” said Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Dr Tarun Weeramanthri.

“Anyone planning to travel overseas to a country where measles is present who hasn’t received the vaccine before should speak to their GP or immunisation provider ideally at least six to eight weeks before they depart to allow time for a full course of measles vaccine.”

Vietnam’s Ministry of Health reported over 38,364 suspected measles cases for 2024, including 13 deaths.

Any overseas travel could lead to exposure

to measles, with outbreaks reported in Asia, including Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia and India, as well as Africa, Europe and the UK, the Middle East, and the USA in 2024.

Measles is a very infectious viral disease that spreads quickly with close contact, especially in those who are not fully vaccinated. Most people recover, however some people, especially young children, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are at risk of serious illness.

Measles usually begins with common coldlike symptoms such as a fever, runny nose, red eyes, and a cough, followed by a rash. The characteristic rash usually begins three to four days after the first symptoms, generally starting on the face and then spreading to the rest of the body.

The Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is available for free to:

• children 12 months and 18 months of age under the National Immunisation Program

• anyone born during or after 1966 who has not already received two doses of a measlescontaining vaccine, are unsure of their vaccination status, or do not have evidence of immunity to measles

• infants travelling overseas to countries where measles occurs can be vaccinated with an MMR vaccine from 6 months of age. If an infant receives the MMR vaccine when they are younger than 12 months of age, they still need to receive the two further doses of measlescontaining vaccine after 12 months of age, usually at 12 and 18 months of age as per the National immunisation Program Schedule

More information on the latest reported cases of measles and exposure sites in Victoria, as well as further information on vaccinations, is available on the Department of Health website.

ensuring they are immunised, with outbreaks overseas posing a particular risk to those travelling to SouthEast Asia – particularly Vietnam at present. (Unsplash).

Victorians are being encouraged to protect themselves and their families from measles by

Clegg Road between Wellington Road Wandin North and Littlejohn Avenue Mount Evelyn was closed after a fatal collision. (File: 320070)

Police arrested a Mooroolbark man in relation to a fatal motorbike crash in Powelltown earlier this month. (Victoria Police)

A 22-year-old Mooroolbark man faces multiple charges following a fatal motorbike collision in Powelltown earlier this month, in which he was uninjured. (Victoria Police)

Virtual emergency care, everywhere

A Bendigo mother has urged the community to consider the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) as their go-to option for nonlife-threatening medical emergencies.

Robina Saunder was sick with Covid-19 when she suddenly developed a head-to-toe rash and shortness of breath.

She was confident the condition wasn’t lifethreatening, but said the symptoms worried her family.

“I could see the concern on my husband’s face and he asked, ‘do we need to go to the hospital?’,” she said.

“Coincidentally, while this was happening, our neighbour, who is a paramedic, came around to drop off some eggs from her chickens.

“My husband explained what was going on and she told him to contact VVED. It was her advice that prompted us to use it.

“That was the first time we’d ever heard of it.”

VVED is an Australian-first video telehealth medical consultation service, run by Northern Health and funded by the Department of Health, for people with non-life-threatening medical conditions.

It is free to access and staffed by highly skilled emergency doctors and nurses who can assess and treat patients virtually, arrange referrals and provide a follow up care plan, if required.

VVED is available across Victoria 24 hours a

day, seven days a week, and can be accessed by anyone with a mobile device and an internet connection.

Importantly, it helps keep ambulances available for the sickest patients.

Robina’s neighbour, Ambulance Victoria paramedic Kyla Aucote, said VVED was the perfect service for her friend.

“I was quite concerned because a few years ago Robina had an anaphylaxis event with unknown cause, where she had similar symptoms to this and had to be taken to hospital,” Kyla said.

“After speaking to Robina’s husband, I felt the chance of it being that was low, but I knew she needed to see a doctor as soon as possible, so I recommended they use VVED.”

Robina was connected to a VVED nurse almost immediately, then passed on to a doctor who assessed her rash and breathing via video.

“It’s virtual but it’s real and immediate,” Robina said.

“I felt reassured because everyone was so caring and I didn’t have to put others at risk by visiting my GP clinic while Covid-positive.”

The VVED doctor determined Robina required urgent medical treatment and arranged for an ambulance to be sent to her house, where the paramedics could administer medication without needing to transport her to hospital.

“Within the hour I was fine,” Robina said.

“I didn’t have to show up at an emergency department and wait for hours or take up a hospital bed when I didn’t need it.

“The whole process was simplified. I was so impressed with it.”

Kyla said VVED had been the best development in her 19 years as a paramedic.

“Especially in regional areas where wait times to see GPs can be extremely lengthy, VVED allows timely assessment and treatment which is important to stop the progression of the patient’s illness,” she said.

“It’s also great for the patient as no one wants to drag themselves out of the house when they’re feeling sick.”

She said it’s making an impact in helping ambulances get back on the road quicker after attending to patients.

“There are some patients that are hard for paramedics to medically clear and normally we would transport them to hospital – now we can clear them by consulting with a doctor through VVED,” Kyla said.

“It can save us all a trip to hospital, and we are able to teach the patient that they can access VVED themselves in future.”

Some other options available when people need timely medical care and health advice but don’t need to visit an ED or an emergency ambulance include Urgent Care Clinics, Nurse on Call, local GPs and pharmacists.

IN BRIEF

Missing teens reported

Two teens known to be seen in areas around Lilydale, Mount Evelyn and as far as Buxton have been reported missing.

Authorities are seeking information on the two missing teenagers, Willow (12) and Gypsy (16), who were last seen leaving an address in Blackburn South on Thursday 23 January at 2.30pm. Willow is described as a 12-year-old girl, approximately 5’11” tall, with blonde hair, fair skin, and pierced ears. Gypsy is described as a 16-yearold girl, approximately 6’1” tall, with auburn hair, green eyes, and two ear piercings.

Both teens are known to frequent areas including Marysville, Mount Evelyn, Buxton, Lilydale, Bacchus Marsh, and Hillside. It’s believed Willow may be traveling with two cats, two rabbits, and a dog.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Forest Hill Police Station at (03) 8847 3600.

Please stay alert and report any sightings or relevant information to assist in locating Willow and Gypsy.

Suspicious grass fire

Yarra Ranges Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a grass fire in Mount Evelyn on 22 January.

It is believed a small area grassland was burned just east of the intersection of Clegg Road and Monbulk Road just before 4pm, no one was injured.

The exact circumstances surrounding the blaze are yet to be determined, however, the fire is being treated as suspicious.

CFA crews also responded to the grass and scrub fire at about 3.44pm, near the Clancy Road Walking Path.

A CFA spokesperson said crews arrived to find a small fire in the grass.

“Four CFA vehicles were on scene, three from Mt Evelyn Brigade and one from Wandin Brigade,” they said.

“The incident was declared under control at 3.57pm and safe at 4.02pm.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au

Police remind all, fire restrictions remain

Yarra Ranges Fire Patrol would like to remind residents that Fire Restrictions remain in force within the Yarra Ranges, Knox and Maroondah Council areas and have been since December last year. Since restrictions have been in force, almost 50 burn offs have occurred locally, putting communities at risk, and impacting local firefighting brigade members or agencies.

The 12- and 16-year-old were last seen leaving an address in Blackburn South on the Thursday 23 January at 2.30pm (Eyewatch)

The virtual service is free and statewide. (Stewart Chambers)

NEWS Lunch break

By Dongyun Kwon with AAP

Small businesses would be able to claim tax deductions on food and entertainment expenses for up to $20,000 under a Coalition policy.

Tax breaks for work lunches are on the cards as part of a push by the Coalition to win over small businesses, as Peter Dutton looks to regain ground in inner-city Brisbane seats.

Mr Dutton used a campaign rally to unveil a plan to allow tax deductions of up to $20,000 for meal and entertainment expenses for small businesses.

Federal Casey MP Aaron Violi welcomed the Opposition Leader’s announcement.

Mr Violi said this new policy is designed to help the local cafes and hospitality businesses after a tough few years.

“These deductions mean small businesses will be able to take their staff or customers out to a local pub or cafe and claim it as an expense, which encourages businesses to support our hospitality industry,” he said.

“26,000 small businesses have closed in Australia in the past two and a half years. It’s about supporting those small businesses by encouraging an increased spend in local venues, which benefits our economy and will help these venues continue to create local jobs.

“We have listened to local cafes, restaurants and the hospitality sector right across the nation and designed a policy to support them to get back on their feet.”

The deductions would only be eligible for businesses with a turnover of under $10 million and would run for two years, and be exempt from fringe benefits tax.

Alcohol would also be excluded from the proposal.

Mr Dutton said the tax measure would provide relief to local economies.

“This is a win for the small business spending the money on their staff or clients, and a win for

the hospitality venues who will see an increased spend in their businesses,” he said.

“Cafes, restaurants, clubs and pubs are the lifeblood of so many local economies around the country.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hit out at the Coalition policy, saying it had not been fully costed.

“This is a guy who opposed energy bill relief, who has opposed all the measures that were put in place for small business,” he said.

“Peter Dutton is yet to come out with serious policy announcements. And when he does come out with, finally, a costing, he came out with a nuclear costing that said there’d be 40 per cent less energy use compared with what the Australian Energy Market Operator says will be needed in 2050.”

Both major party leaders had spent time in recent days hitting the ground in key marginal seats ahead of the federal election, despite the date not being set.

The election is due to be held by 17 May, although the Prime Minister hosed down speculation about the timing of the poll.

Training GPs on the rise

By Callum Ludwig

The number of training General Practitioners (GPs) in Victoria is on the rise in a positive sign for improving access to medical care.

Data from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) shows that Victoria is setting the standard for incentivising the profession, with 358 future GPs starting training this year in the state, 22 per cent more than in 2024.

The RACGP credits the Victorian Government’s $40,000 General Practitioners grants program, with half of all the training GPs they surveyed saying they began training due to the grant. RACGP Victoria Chair Dr Anita Munõz said the next generation of GPs has been clear about the value of these grants.

“Given their success, the Victorian Government should fund its GP training incentives in 2026 and beyond,” she said.

“There are also gains to be made by increasing junior doctors’ opportunities to experience what general practice, and especially rural general practice, can offer,”

“With the right funding and incentives, we can rebuild the GP workforce to keep everyone healthy throughout their lives.”

41 training GPs have joined the Rural South East region (Gippsland, Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges) on a rural training pathway this year.

Through the program, 400 grants valued at $40,000 each were allocated in 2024 with a further 400 grants available in 2025, with both the RACGP and ACRRM (Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine) reporting a significant increase in the number of GP enrolments in 2024.

A Department of Health spokesperson said they’ve had an overwhelmingly positive response for this latest round of the GP grants program, and this is making a real difference

in increasing the number of GPs enrolments in Victoria.

“The General Practitioners grants program continues to incentivise graduates to consider a career in general practice and ensure Victoria has the GP workforce needed both now and into the future,” they said.

“We know that by removing barriers like the cost of training, uncertainty around placements as well as incentivising roles in rural areas, more and more doctors will consider careers as GPs.”

The RACGP survey found 59 per cent of recipients are undertaking placements in regional Victoria because of the grants, and 13 per cent said they moved to Victoria because of the program.

The number of GPs training in Melbourne alone rose by 42 per cent and the RACGP is calling on the Victorian Government to expand the program with a focus on enticing GPs to regional cities and rural towns.

The RACGP also wants to see all political parties to fund 1500 more RACGP Australian GP Training places over the next five years, particularly in states like New South Wales where growth in training GPs lagged considerably behind other states, and to see politicians commit to linking Government-subsidised medical places at universities to a target of 50 per cent of graduates training as GPs.

RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said all federal parties must commit to ensuring access to affordable GP care in the lead-up to the Federal Election.

“The RACGP has a plan to ensure highquality general practice care is accessible and affordable for all Australians,” he said.

“We’ve shown we can train more GPs, and with Australia’s growing and ageing population, and an epidemic of chronic illness, we need to increase the number we’re training to meet the need for care.”

Federal Casey MP Aaron Violi emphasised the importance of small businesses in the local economy. (File: 420752)

Open space plan for park

By Mikayla van Loon

Yarra Ranges Council has confirmed its stance on the future of the former Kilsyth pool site, committing to the decision that it would remain open space.

In an update published on Monday 20 January, the council said a masterplan would be prepared later this year and would “include community broad consultation seeking ideas and feedback”.

“During the October meeting, Council resolved to maintain the site as open space, and to create a masterplan for the whole of Kiloran Park to explore future opportunities and projects,” it reads.

The update was also used to confirm a business case for an urban aquatics and leisure facility was being “developed over the next six months with sites being explored in Lilydale and surrounding areas”.

“The draft business case will identify the components of the future facility and propose a funding strategy to help deliver the project.”

Components of an aquatics and leisure facility being explored include an indoor lap pool, learn

to swim program pool, group fitness room, steam and sauna, gym and cafe.

Rebuild Our Kilsyth Pool lead petitioner Janis Floyd said the hope of the group in 2025, with both of these plans being looked at, is that the urban community will get a chance to put forward their wants and needs.

“So to most of the people who signed the petition, that seemed to be their preferred option.

“What we’re hoping for is that when the masterplan for Kiloran reserve comes out, there will be community consultation within the urban area of that plan. And we’re hoping that that plan will include a swimming pool, a 50 metre indoor, open all year swimming pool, just like we had before.”

Ms Floyd said with people of the urban area currently having to travel outside the shire or long distances to use a pool, it made sense in the short

term for a pool to be rebuilt in Kilsyth.

“The aquatic strategy is fine as a strategy goes but, in our opinion, it would be best if the council would use the land they already have in Kilsyth to build a pool in the short term,” she said.

Suggesting that this could be done in phases to fall inline with budgets, Ms Floyd said the priority for the Rebuild group is a 50 metre lap pool to support water safety and access to swimming.

“I think it’s important to have hydrotherapy and a spa and I think learning to swim is important, and I think a 50 metre lap pool is important. They’re really the key activities that are most important in my mind,” Ms Floyd said.

Despite the initial anger on seeing the pool demolished so quickly, Ms Floyd said she understands the reason behind it but it leaves an opportunity for the council to act.

“I don’t mind really that they’ve pulled it down and demolished it, because it was being heated by gas and it wasn’t environmentally sustainable. The fabric on the dome had been out in the sun, and it had been torn and patched up many times, and

the struts were failing and the pool was leaking.

“I don’t blame them at all. It was the right decision to do something, and they demolished it. And now we have a lovely open space where the pool designers can start from scratch and build a new pool that has a solid structure around it.

“You can have solar panels on the roof. And being a 50 metre pool, you’ll get a lot of solar panels on the roof. It can have batteries, and then you can do water harvesting and recirculation. And it can be a shining example of how to do it right.”

Ms Floyd said signatures on the petition continue to be added and now the Rebuild group are seeking letters of support for a new pool, as well as canvassing schools, sports clubs and medical practitioners who used the pool.

The group is also putting together a list of essentials, good-to-haves and nice-to-haves to inform the vision for a new pool in Kilsyth.

With a change in councillors at the end of last year, Ms Floyd said too that the group was feeling positive that the position on using the Kiloran Park land for a pool would be adjusted.

The dismantled dome of the Kilsyth Centenary Pool is not set for a rebuild under the newly adopted Aquatic and Leisure Strategy. (File: 376962)

The Kilsyth Centenary Pool was decommissioned and demolished in late 2023. (Supplied)

Kirsty’s PSM

By Mikayla van Loon

Croydon’s Kirsty Savage has been honoured for her outstanding work helping deliver Victoria’s Aboriginal Water Program and dedication to public service.

Receiving the meritorious Public Service Medal (PSM) as part of the Australia Day Honours and Awards for 2025, Ms Savage was recognised for her years working with Aboriginal community-controlled organisations and with the public service.

Currently a senior manager with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), Ms Savage was mostly commended for guiding a new benchmark for partnership with Traditional Owners to design a water policy that protected existing water rights and acknowledged the thousands of years of connection to country for First Nations people.

“(She) worked with Traditional Owners across Victoria to lead and deliver Victoria’s Aboriginal Water Program, Water is Life, the first water strategy in Australia to set a pathway for sharing power and resources for water management with First Peoples,” the commendation summary reads.

“In the creation of Water is Life, Ms Savage tirelessly negotiated a pathway through the complex existing legal water-rights frameworks to deliver a roadmap for the future.

“It was Ms Savage who took the calls from community about their expectations in relation to self-determination and water policy and worked to articulate those expectations.”

Ms Savage built trust with the Aboriginal community, as well as senior public servants and gov-

ernment ministers to deliver a mutually balanced framework.

“She worked tirelessly to navigate a commitmentinWaterisLifetoprotectexistingwaterrights while paving the way to recognise future water rights for Victorian Traditional Owners, based on their 40,000-plus years of connection to country.”

The task undertaken by Ms Savage, the commendation said, could not be understated and that she will “leave a legacy of fundamental change to the way public servants and government officials think about the management of water resources in Victoria and how they work with Aboriginal Victorians in returning power and resources”.

Ms Savage was one of 196 people to receive a meritorious award and among 732 Australians to be announced on the Honours and Awards list.

“Congratulations to all of the 2025 Australia Day honours recipients. Thank you for your work of care and service to our nation,” Governor-General the honourable Sam Moyston said.

“To read recipient stories is to be reminded that contribution to communities across the country, underpinned by care, kindness, respect and love, is what matter most to all Australians, in every sphere of life. Recipients embody the best of us, and we are grateful to all of them.

“This year, we mark the 50th anniversary of Australia’s honours system. We have a wonderful opportunity over the next 50 years of our honours and awards to reflect our generous, successful and modern Australian society.

“To all Australians, nominating and honouring our fellow Australians is a meaningful way of saying, as a nation, thank you.”

Lilydale gold medallist Kelland O’Brien honoured

A Lilydale-born Olympian has been recognised for his gold medal heroics in the 2025 Australia Day Awards.

Kelland O’Brien received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division for his ‘service to sport as a gold medallist at the Paris Olympic Games 2024.’

Growing up, O’Brien went to Lilydale High School and started his career at Lilydale BMX Club before going on to become a decorated national cyclist.

As part of Australia’s Men’s Team Pursuit in the Paris Games, O’Brien and teammates Sam Welsford, Conor Leahy and Oliver Bleddyn broke the world record in qualifying with a time of 3:40.730 which obliterated the previous benchmark by more than a second as they triumphed over reigning Olympic champions Italy to progress to the gold medal ride.

Up against arch-rivals Great Britain, O’Briend and the team completed the gold medal ride in an incredible three minutes and 42 seconds to claim their place at the top of the podium.

Barely 0.2 of a second separated the two

teams for almost the entire 4km before Australia broke their opponents on the final lap and won by over two seconds.

After the gold medal race, O’Brien said the team had a plan and stuck to it, not putting too much pressure on themselves after the record ride on Tuesday.

“It was a heated battle as it always is, hats off to those guys they rode an amazing race, and we just stuck to our process and nailed it,” he said.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the boys and Tim (coach Tim Decker) for getting it done, we’ve said all along it’s going to be won on day three and it was.”

O’Brien was part of the Australian Pursuit team in the previous Toko Olympics which claimed the bronze medal, after a broken handlebar and subsequent crash in qualifying robbed them of a shot at gold. He was also a gold medallist with the pursuit team at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.

O’Brien was contacted for comment.

Kilsyth’s Habitat leader receives OAM recognition

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor and Mikayla Van Loon

Kilsyth’s former Habitat for Humanity Victoria boardchair,RobertMcLauchlan,hasbeenawarded the prestigious Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his exceptional service to architecture and social welfare, particularly through his work with Habitat for Humanity Victoria.

Mr McLauchlan’s deep connection to Habitat for Humanity Victoria began more than two decades ago, when he was asked to design a series of homes for the charity.

At the time, the project coincided with a special visit from former US President Jimmy Carter, a global ambassador for Habitat for Humanity. His role expanded from designing homes to serving on the board, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s growth.

“I was initially asked to design a set of units for Habitat, and that led to me becoming the designer for many of their housing projects,” Mr McLauchlan said.

“As time went on, I became more involved, and in 2011, I was honoured to take on the role of board chair.”

One of Mr McLauchlan’s most significant achievements during his time with Habitat for Humanity Victoria was the creation of the Restore op shop in Kilsyth.

The store, which sells donated goods, helps raise funds for the charity’s work building homes for vulnerable families.

It has since expanded to a second location in Rosebud, and the Kilsyth Restore continues to be a crucial part of the organisation’s fundraising efforts.

“We started the Restore in Kilsyth as a way to generate funds to help build homes, and now it’s a thriving business that supports families here in Australia and abroad,” he said.

“The success of the Kilsyth Restore has been incredible, and it’s heartening to see how it continues to grow and make an impact.”

Under Mr McLauchlan’s leadership, Habitat for Humanity Victoria has built over 70 homes across the state, including in areas such as Dandenong, Bayswater, Lilydale, Geelong, and Ballarat.

The charity’s work has extended beyond Victoria, with homes built internationally in places like Cambodia.

“I’ll never forget the trip to Cambodia, where we physically built a home for a single mother in need,” he said.

“To see the look on her face when she climbed the stairs to her new home was truly unforgettable.”

His service to Habitat for Humanity Victoria spans nearly 20 years, and he stepped down from the board only after his retirement.

Despite no longer holding an official position, he remains closely involved with the organisation, attending events and following its progress.

“Even though I’m retired now, I’m still deeply

proud of everything we’ve accomplished, and I continue to support Habitat in any way I can,” Mr McLauchlan said.

His legacy, however, is most strongly tied to the families who have found stability and hope through Habitat’s work.

He reflects on the transformative power of homeownership, particularly in small communities like Yea, where Habitat for Humanity’s housing projects have made a lasting impact on local families.

“The difference a stable home makes is enormous, I remember a teacher in Yay telling me how the children from Habitat homes were flourishing in school, not because they were necessarily better students, but because they now had the stability and security they needed to thrive,” Mr McLauchlan said.

In recognition of his tireless work with Habitat for Humanity Victoria and his broader contributions to the architectural and social welfare sectors, he was honoured with the OAM.

“It’s a great honour, but the real reward for me has always been seeing the difference we’ve made in people’s lives,” he said.

As Habitat for Humanity Victoria continues to grow, Mr McLauchlan looks forward to seeing what the future holds for the organisation, especially the success of the Kilsyth Restore.

“It’s exciting to see how far Habitat has come, and I’m confident it will continue to make a real difference in the years to come,” he said.

Lilydale’s Kelland O’Brien celebrating the gold medal win on Wednesday 7 August 2024. (AP Photo/Ricardo Mazalan)

Robert McLauchlan receives an OAM for his work with Habitat for Humanity Victoria. (Supplied)

DEECA’s Kirsty Savage was instrumental in developing the Aboriginal Water Program, a first in Australia. (Rob Carew: 453900)

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CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Caltex Safeway239-241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK EG Fuelco Service StationChirnside Park Shopping Cr Little

Chipping Drive, 241 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway

CHIRNSIDE PARK Chirnside Park Country Club 68 Kingswood Drive

CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar158 Nangathan Way

CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar11 The Mall

KILSYTH Woolworths SupermarketChuringa SC, Russo Place

KILSYTH Woolworths SupermarketCanterbury Road Kilsyth

KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette Unit 7/87 Colchester Road

LILYDALE Aaron Violi MP Office 110 Main Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC51-59 Anderson Street

LILYDALE Woolworths SupermarketMarketplace, 33 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale VillageCastella Street & Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre7 Hardy Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre1 Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station473 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale346 Main Street

LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths31 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE BP Service Station87 Warburton Highway

LILYDALE Shell Service Station469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE 7 - Eleven LilydaleCnr Maroondah Highway & Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE Coles Express469 Maroondah Highway

LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe251 Main Street

LILYDALE Round Bird Can't Fly170 Main Street

LILYDALE The Lilydale General110 Beresford Road

LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery96 Main Street

LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe178 Main Street

LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe222 Main Street

LILYDALE Gracious GraceCastella Street

LILYDALE Melba Coffee House33-45 Hutchinson Street

LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies7/75 Cave Hill Road

LILYDALE Point of View CafeLilydale Lakeside - Jarlo Drive

LILYDALE Freda's Cafe2 Clarke Street

LILYDALE Barry Plant Real Estate88 Main Street

LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate164 Main Street

LILYDALE Hello Harry245 Main Street

LILYDALE Noel Jones Real Estate 281 Main Street

LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate111-113 Main Street

LILYDALE Grubs Up1 Industrial Park Drive

LILYDALE Mc Donalds RestaurantMaroondah Highway

LILYDALE Olinda Creek HotelMaroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Crown Hotel Maroondah Hwy

LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street

MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket Mt Dandenong Road

MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road

MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street

MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent

MOUNT EVELYN Red Robyn Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road

MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent

MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road

MOUNT EVELYN Bendigo Bank 2/35-39 Wray Cres

MONTROSE IGA Supermarket916 Mt Dandenong Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket15 Brice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Bendigo BankUnit 19/66 - 74 Brice Ave

MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar38 Bellara Dive

MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart108 Hayrick Lane

MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark103 Cardigan Road

MOOROOLBARK Coles Express2 Cambridge Road

MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real EstateBrice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK L J HookerBrice Avenue

MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road

MOOROOLBARK Mc Donalds RestaurantManchester Road

MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road

MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale138 York Road

WANDIN NORTH Wandin Newsagency Shop 2 /18 Union Road

NEWS Jarvis named young citizen

By Dongyun Kwon

The Young Citizen of the Year award was given to Jarvis Lewis-James.

Mr Lewis-James is a dedicated environmental volunteer, who has supported a community nursery in Mooroolbark.

He volunteers at Candlebark Community Nursery every day it is open.

His presence shone when the nursery faced financial difficulties last year as Mr Lewis-James was one of the first volunteers to collaborate with leaders and the new management committee to get the nursery back on track.

“It was early last year when the previous propagator left because we couldn’t afford to keep paying someone all the time, we were possibly a month or two away from having to close,” he said.

“I eventually ended up stepping in and taking over a lot of the propagation, planning and management stuff in regards to growing the plants.

“But I’m doing it on a volunteer basis.”

The award winner is taking a Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management at Box Hill Institute Lilydale Campus.

Mr Lewis-James said he got into protecting the local environment a couple of years ago.

“I started volunteering at Southern Dandenong Community Nursery in Belgrave, and that really opened my eyes up to all of it,” he said.

After he became passionate about planting and the local environment, Mr Lewis-James started exploring the Yarra Ranges to locate, record and identify rare and threatened plant species, so that they can be propagated at the nursery to prevent future species extinction.

He has been heavily involved in opportunities for local plant reintroduction, including with the Banksia cunninhamii, Banksia marginata and Correa reflexa var reflexa.

The award recipient also participated in bushland planting days with Yarra Ranges Council, helping to conserve and revegetate sensitive areas, including sections of the Warburton Rail Trail.

“Through my course (at Box Hill Institute Lilydale Campus), we did some planting with the council because it lined up well with the unit we were doing,” he said.

“We were on the Warburton Rail Trail in Mount Evelyn, doing some plantings there with the Yarra Ranges Council.

“A few of them ended up being planted with the original seeds that I collected, which was really cool.”

Mr Lewis-James’ work to protect native species, support his local nursery and improve the local environment has made him a clear and fantastic recipient of the Young Citizen of the Year award.

Holy Fools starts year well

By Dongyun Kwon

Holy Fools was selected as Community Group of the Year for its consistent contribution to homeless people.

The organisation has been supporting homeless people for over 15 years by hosting community lunches, providing swags and blankets for people sleeping rough and offering information and a place to go for community members at risk of, and experiencing, homelessness.

Holy Fools founder and chief executive officer Neal Taylor said it was their first time being nominated and receiving the award.

“We’re honoured and feel very privileged to receive it,” he said.

Mr Taylor founded Holy Fools in 2009.

He said he started realising there was a lack of support for homeless people to battle the issues they were dealing with when he worked at a dining room which provided a community meal in Croydon.

“I decided to start walking alongside them to help them solve their issues whether it was a medical appointment, court case or whatever,” Mr Taylor said.

“Then we realised that we needed more of an overarching organisation that helps do that.

“We got a bunch of friends together, and that’s how Holy Fools began.”

On a shoestring budget, the Holy Fools team works year-round to provide for people doing it tough and advocate on their behalf to levels of government, other services, and the wider community, appealing for understanding, compassion and resources to help some of the most vulnerable people in the community.

Their nominator noted their work in opening a homelessness resource centre, which will open its doors in 2025 and will no doubt have a tremendously positive impact on community members sleeping rough, or at risk of

homelessness, for many years to come.

Mr Taylor said Holy Fools tried to open a new homelessness resource centre after the previous drop-in centre closed due to a lack of funding.

“We worked with The Salvation Army and opened up a drop-in centre here in Lilydale. We ran a couple of community meals and did lots of things like a men’s group and an arts group, but that closed down shortly after about two years with the lack of funding from the Salvos, they pulled the funding on it,” he said.

“Ever since then, we realised that there was a definite need for something like that in the local area, so we’ve been pushing along to try and do something.

“In late 2023, we identified that there was a property in Lilydale that was up for lease and the office, so we moved here and started renovating here.”

The homelessness resource centre is designed for people who need a refuge off the street. Mr Taylor said Holy Fools would finally be able to open the centre after a few years of waiting.

Holy Fools’ Neal Taylor and Abbey Drake. (Jesse Graham/Yarra Ranges Council)

Young Citizen of the Year award recipient Jarvis Lewis-James. (Jesse Graham/Yarra Ranges Council)

Sue’s history is a winner

By Dongyun Kwon

SueThompsonbecameoneoftheMayor’sLifetime Achievers for countless achievements throughout her life for the Yarra Ranges community.

A keen historian and volunteer, and a former local journalist, Ms Thompson was instrumental in the formation of the Lilydale Museum, now known as the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum, to ensure that local artefacts, photographs and items could be catalogued, maintained and preserved for future generations.

The award winner said her interest in history started in primary school when she did a project about family history.

“As one of the journalist editors at the Lilydale Express, when we had the centenary coming up of the newspaper in1986, I got involved with the (Lilydale) Historical Society who provided us with photos for our 100-page special edition,” she said.

“In the following year, I got recruited to the Historical Society, so I’ve been involved with the society since then. The Historical Society was operating the museum, which they opened in 1976 or thereabouts.

“So the Historical Society operated the museum until I handed the operations of the collection over to the shire in 1989, we then focused on supporting that rather than running the museum. We became more the research side of things for the museum.”

Ms Thompson has published about 40 small history books and developed the only website dedicated to Dame Nellie Melba, who has signifi-

Eddie Tichelaar, lifetime

Montrose resident, honoured

By Dongyun Kwon

A lifetime Montrose resident was recognised for his love for the township on Australia Day.

Eddie Tichelaar received the Ian De La Rue Award for Community Leadership selected by Yarra Ranges Council.

The award winner said receiving an Australia Day award was something he had never expected.

“I never even thought that I would get (this award),” he said.

“I thought there were more people in our community more deserving than me.”

Mr Tichelaar has devoted himself to the local community by volunteering for community groups including Montrose Township Group and Montrose CFA where he has shown strength, leadership and grit.

As a member of Montrose Township Group, the award recipient has been actively involved in two projects; Montrose Intersection Upgrade and People’s Garden Reinvigoration.

He has worked hard to engage with the community and VicRoads, acting as a conduit for community information, building rapport with contractors, VicRoads representatives and community stakeholders, to ensure locals are across every bit of relevant information.

The Montrose resident said he became involved with the Montrose Intersection Upgrade in 2017. “As a member of the Montrose Township Group, I took the opportunity to understand the project through its entirety,” Mr Tichelaar said.

“I had an interest in engineering, and I wanted to understand what was going to happen.

“I’ve been to all the meetings that have been held, and that’s how I got involved.”

Mr Tichelaar said reinvigorating the People’s Garden is another project which Montrose Township Group has been focusing on.

“There’s a gentleman named Kevin Heinze who lived diagonally across the road from me. He was a garden presenter on ABC for 21 years,” he said.

“He donated half of his garden to Yarra Ranges Council, and I along with other members of Montrose Township Group have been working with the council to reinvigorate the garden.

“We’re working with the council to create a master plan for the People’s Garden.”

Besides Montrose Township Group, the Ian De La Rue Award winner has dedicated himself to a local fire brigade. He has been a CFA volunteer for more than 45 years.

Mr Tichelaar has contributed to the Resilience Committee and established a broad network in the community through his work.

Mr Tichelaar joined the Montrose CFA when he was 14 and a half as a junior member inspired

by his father who had joined the brigade during the 1962 bushfires.

“When I was a young child and my father would go to the fire station whenever the fire siren went off, it just drew me to being interested in what my father was doing,” he said.

“Later on, I remember being at Montrose Primary School one day, and the fire trucks were parked outside near the primary school, and I thought to myself ‘I’m going to drive a fire truck one day’.”

Along the journey, he has served the fire brigade both as a firefighter and community engagement coordinator.

During the 2021 storms, he negotiated to set up a communications centre at the Montrose CFA.

“Because the fire station has a generator and they would be dealing with an emergency, I asked the captain of the brigade if we could use a part of the meeting room for the township group to utilise, so we could get power and access to the internet to gather information that we could pass out to the community through our Facebook page but also through talking with people in the streets when they came down to the shops,” Mr Tichelaar said.

“What would happen in the future if something similar happened, the opportunity is there that we could utilise part of the CFA to hold where we can gather our information and get that information out to our community.”

The smoke alarm and fire preparedness signs in Montrose were initiatives of Mr Tichelaar’s more than 20 years ago, as was the first Montrose Fire Brigade Open Day in 1984, which continues to this day.

Mayor’s Lifetime Achiever winner is Harry Moyle

By Dongyun Kwon

Harry Moyle got recognition for his dedication of almost three decades of his life to volunteering his financial expertise to assist Caladenia Dementia Care in Mooroolbark on Sunday 26 January.

Mr Moyle received Mayor’s Lifetime Achiever as part of Yarra Ranges Council’s Australia Day 2025 Community Awards.

Joining in the 90s, the award winner has been an instrumental figure in the Caladenia Dementia Care’s direction and financial governance, bringing his experience as a financial planner, accountant and small business owner.

Mr Moyle said he started off his journey with Caladenia Dementia Care as the treasurer, expecting it to last for three years but ended up being for almost three decades.

“I was studying accounting at the time, part-time at night school, and our founder asked me to be treasurer as they were having financial difficulties in meeting all their expenses,” he said.

“I worked or volunteered as treasurer for about 10 years, then became chairperson and president of the committee, and later board of the company, once we incorporated and became a company.”

Caladenia Dementia Care based in Mooroolbark provides social opportunities and community-based social programs for people living with dementia.

“The whole aim is to give the person that has dementia the opportunity to socialise with others and to be active,” Mr Moyle said.

“The other thing that it does by giving those programs to the person living with dementia is that their carers get respite, so they get five or six hours in the day where they don’t have to care 24/7 for their family member.

“That can mean a real lot for them because they can go and do the shopping or they can have a coffee with their friends and do things that they normally can’t do when the person with the diagnosis is with them.”

The award recipient also played a major role in transitioning Caladenia from an incorporated association to a not-for-profit.

Mr Moyle said the reason for the transition was to get national exposure and various governments’ grants.

“I played a role in that but probably the most significant person was a gentleman named Hamish Russell, who lives in Lilydale and is well known in the area, and he guided

us through that process of establishing a constitution and having all the necessary meetings,” he said.

“It wasn’t a massive change.”

Now retired from the board, Mr Moyle has continued to help the organisation host events for fundraising purposes like Bunnings sausage sizzle as well as for social purposes some of which involve training volunteers.

Mr Moyle said he was very proud to receive a special award on Australia Day.

“I’m very much a staunch Aussie and I love Australia,” he said.

“I’m very pleased that I can represent Caledonia and its community.”

His nominator said, “Harry is a willing listener and supporter, a mentor and a trusted advisor whose calmness, thoughtfulness and sage wisdom have laid the groundwork for the organisation’s future.”

Sue Thompson with the golden centenary edition of the Lilydale Express. (Stewart Chambers: 378495)

Harry Moyle received Mayor’s Lifetime Achiever as part of Yarra Ranges Council’s Australia Day 2025 Community Awards. (Jesse Graham/Yarra Ranges Council)

Eddie Tichelaar received the Ian De La Rue Award. (Jesse Graham/Yarra Ranges Council)

Debbie is our enviro achiever

A Millgrove resident who moved heaven and earth to save a much-loved community nursery in Mooroolbark has been named Environmental Achiever of the Year at Yarra Ranges Council’s 2025 Community Awards.

Debbie Shaw has taken out the award for her efforts to keep the Candlebark Community Nursery running last year.

Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child said at the beginning of 2024, Candlebark Community Nursery faced certain closure, due to a downturn in volunteer workforce and reduced finances.

“Debbie Shaw is one of the people squarely responsible for turning this tide, stepping in to ensure the nursery’s continued growth, success and certainty,” he said.

“A founding member, returning after 30 years, Debbie joined the committee at the start of 2024 and wasted no time in creating a positive culture and ushering in change. She is committed to transparency and communication, and has transformed the experience of volunteers at Candlebark, earning her kudos from her coworkers,”

“Her expertise in environmental governance, business administration, propagating native plants and managing staff and volunteers has been instrumental to getting Candlebark back on the right track.”

Ms Shaw had returned to buy plants from the nursery in February 2024 and hearing the dismay of the volunteers, joined the committee on the spot. Many volunteers, including the treasurer, had stepped away during Covid, leaving no one with financial experience monitoring the nursery’s accounts.

Mostly supplying plants to local councils, schools, community groups and other organisations who want to establish indigenous gardens or reintroduce habitat, sales dried up during the pandemic period due to unsustainable rates.

Cr Child said Ms Shaw re-established community contacts with the business, and now Candlebark is a provider of local, native plants for Council’s Ribbons of Green, Healing in our Gardens and Gardens for Wildlife programs, directly benefitting the local environment, community members taking part and local fauna that will thrive with more native plants around.

“She now has a goal of meeting a demand of 120,000 locally-native plants for revegetation and biodiversity works in 2025, which will have a tremendously positive impact on the environment,” he said.

“Debbie is an inspiration who has made 2024 a fantastic year for so many others, while helping support our spectacular natural environment. Congratulations on this award, Debbie.”

Ms Shaw was contacted for comment.

She’s our top citizen

By Callum Ludwig

A magnate of the Millgrove community has been crowned as Yarra Ranges Council’s 2025 Citizen of the Year.

Maureen Halit, President of the Millgrove Resident’s Action Group has taken out the accolade at this year’s Yarra Ranges Council Community Awards.

Ms Halit said she is totally honoured and blessed to be receiving the award.

“I didn’t realise what an honour it was until the other day, I was down in Lilydale and I just saw cars whizzing around everywhere and I thought ‘Wow, this is a big busy area and I’ve been granted the honour of Citizen of the Year’, it really hit me then,” she said.

“I realised there’s about a 150,000 population in the Shire and I don’t know how many registered volunteers there would be but it’s a pretty big number and it’s pretty special to have come through with such an award in such a big area.”

At 77 years old, Ms Halit continues to have a big hand in all things Millgrove, whether it be community events or improving resilience against disasters and emergencies in her township. She has volunteered for over 20 years, been an active participant in her local community for over five decades and has been MRAG’s President for the last 20 years.

Ms Halit said she guesses that volunteering is in your blood.

“You work with the community and whatever you achieve, no matter how big or small, it’s an achievement. it’s a plus and a recognition for Millgrove,” she said.

“My family’s always worked with the community and it just follows through in the blood I think and I just thoroughly enjoy it, you don’t do it for pats on the back, it’s just rewarding to be able to achieve something for the community,”

“But I guess I’m getting known out there for who I am and who we are and it’s nice to have that recognition wherever you go, you get that pat on the back and told you’re doing a great job.”

Ms Halit’s award follows on from MRAG being named Community Group of the Year in the 2024 awards.

Ms Halit said achieving the back-to-back awards is pretty special and unique.

“I don’t get this recognition off my own back, it takes a good team behind me, it’s not such a per-

sonal thing, I believe it’s more a community connection,” she said.

“I’ve always been a good listener, a good shoulder to lean on and just forever and always thoroughly enjoyed connecting with the community and this is where it’s gotten me.”

Ms Halit’s proudest achievements have included delivering the Courtney Dix River Road project, having MRAG named Community Group of the Year in both 2014 and 2024, making MIllgrove a pilot town for the Minderoo Foundation and Resilience Canopy efforts, holding the first Community Planning Day event and the Millgrove Light Trail show in 2024.

Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child said this year, Ms Halit has also been implementing resilience projects, helping to develop the Community Plan for 2025-30 and guiding MRAG into its 20th year.

“During her time at MRAG, she’s overseen Millgrove’s third Community Plan, Resilience Plan and a Future Vision Plan for Millgrove; she’s developed close relationships with other community leaders and helped to coordinate efforts for the betterment of her town,” he said.

“She works with Council, mentors other groups, contributes to the Yarra Ranges Township Group Network and Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee, has successfully applied for grants for local projects and advocated for all-ability access throughout the town,”

“Her nominator said that ‘Maureen is an inspiration and a champion for Millgrove. She is selfless, ego-less, caring, considerate and inclusive of everyone. The first one to offer a helping hand. Maureen is a great leader, and leads by example.”

Lifetime of activism, passion recognised

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

For over 40 years, Elizabeth Conolly has been a passionate environmental volunteer, dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of Selby and the surrounding areas in the Dandenong Ranges.

Alongside her late partner, environmental activist and botanist Darcy Duggan, Elizabeth has played a pivotal role in restoring local bushland, habitat corridors, and creekside reserves. Darcy was a major inspiration for Elizabeth’s deep commitment to conservation.

His tireless work and knowledge of native flora sparked her own passion for protecting the land.

“Darcy was a great teacher, he showed me the importance of caring for our local ecosystems, and I’ve continued that work in his honour,” she said.

After Darcy’s passing over four years ago, Elizabeth has carried on the conservation efforts they both believed in. She has organised regular volunteer working bees across Selby, bringing together groups of locals to weed bushland sites and plant native species. These efforts are part of a larger mission to preserve pockets of indigenous bushland in the area and protect the Dandenong Ranges’ unique biodiversity.

One of her key projects is the Minak Reserve in Selby, where Elizabeth and a team of volunteers are working to create a sensory and educational walk through the reserve. The project aims to offer both locals and visitors an opportunity to connect with nature while learning about the area’s native plants and wildlife.

“It’s so rewarding to see how people respond to the environment here - it’s about fostering a deeper understanding of our local ecosystems,” she said.

Elizabeth’s dedication goes beyond just Minak Reserve. She is also involved in the Monbulk Creek BioLink reserves, working alongside local

conservation groups to maintain wildlife corridors that support the region’s native species.

“There’s a strong community of volunteers here in Selby and beyond,” she said.

“I’m always learning from others, and together, we’re making a real difference.”

The work is far from easy, but Elizabeth finds great satisfaction in it.

“It’s amazing what a group of volunteers can achieve. Whether it’s weeding or planting, every little bit helps. We need more people to join in,” she said.

“Volunteering isn’t just about the work; it’s about connecting with like-minded people who care about the future of our environment.”

In addition to her hands-on work, Elizabeth highlights the importance of educational initiatives like the Habitat Management course, which has been supported by the Shire of Yarra Ranges for nearly 40 years.

This course helps equip volunteers with the knowledge and skills needed for environmental conservation, and two spots are available each year for volunteers to attend.

Elizabeth said she’s thankful for the support of local agencies such as the Shire of Yarra Ranges, Melbourne Water, and Parks Victoria, who provide essential funding and resources for the conservation work in Selby and the broader Dandenong Ranges.

She’s grateful for the valuable contribution of local conservation groups, including the Southern Dandenongs Landcare Group, which helps coordinate grants and protect the integrity of local bushland.

As climate change continues to impact ecosystems around the world, Elizabeth’s work has never been more important.

“We need to ensure that future generations can experience the same pristine natural environments we have today,” she said.

“It’s up to all of us to care for our local landscapes.”

Elizabeth’s efforts in Selby are a testament to the power of community action and the ongoing commitment of volunteers who are helping to protect the Dandenong Ranges for future generations.

“The environment needs us now more than ever,” she said. “Your time, no matter how small, can make a big difference,” Elizabeth said.

Elizabeth Conolly has spent more than 40 years preserving Selby’s bushland and inspiring local conservation efforts. (Supplied)

Maureen Halit is the Yarra Ranges Citizen of the Year. (Jesse Graham)

Environmental Achiever of the Year Debbie Shaw. (Jesse Graham)

Monopoly go

By Callum Ludwig

Residents of the Yarra and Dandenong Ranges are invited to have their say on what will feature on a custom edition of the family-favourite board game Monopoly set to launch later in 2025.

Locals are invited to comment or email which locations, landmarks and iconic figures should feature on the board.

Monopoly Manager Jaime-Lee de Niet from Winning Moves Australia, which will manufacture the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges edition of the popular board game under license from toy and game company Hasbro, said definitely to send in must-see locations, businesses and attractions.

“The Yarra Valley has so much to offer, there are only 22 property squares so we do have to limit what we put on there, however, we’re open to every suggestion from little to massive,” she said.

“It’s such a big area so we want to make sure that the edition is featuring all of those areas and by the locals, community, tourists suggesting or putting forward their little piece from their area. it all comes together like a jigsaw puzzle,”

“The board is broken down into different categories, from our natural attractions to our experiences or family days out to the most iconic parts of the Yarra Valley, we’re always open for both and for businesses, we would have a look and make sure that they are fit for the board before

committing to that as well.”

Residents can provide their ideas by commenting on the announcement from 13 January on the ‘Winning Moves Australia’ Facebook page or by emailing them to info@winningmoves.com. au. Comments on the post have already suggested locations such as Healesville Sanctuary, Sky High Mt Dandenong, Lillydale Lake, Puffing Billy Railway and the Redwood Forest among many more.

Ms de Niet said all suggestions will need to be in by the end of February.

“We then go into a design phase, which will be available for purchasing in October and that’s when we’ll be back in town to launch the edition with Mr Monopoly as well,” she said.

“With our community editions, everybody has an emotional attachment to their community so they want to see things that they’ve seen or known or grown up living around,”

“They are actually our most popular editions because of that connection and the family history of the place, so it’s been really exciting over the last few days of being here in Yarra Valley, it’s absolutely beautiful with the rolling hills and everything to see so I’m really excited to create it.”

Winning Moves has created themed editions for the following Australian locations: delaide, Bendigo, Cairns, Canberra, Gold Coast, Gympie, Hobart, Melbourne, Mildura, Newcastle, Parramatta, Sydney, Townsville, Wagga Wagga and Wollongong.

Phone surveys are coming

Yarra Ranges Council would like to inform the community that from 28 January until mid-March, households in the region may receive survey calls from National Field Services, an independent market research agency.

The agency has been commissioned to conduct community satisfaction surveys on behalf of Council. Similar surveys will be undertaken across other local government areas.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Cr Jim Child said the surveys will be asking about Council’s performance, and how to improve services.

“These community satisfaction surveys are run annually, to determine the areas that people are happy with and, very importantly, where we should be focusing our attention in the near future,” Cr Child said.

“These surveys are taken very seriously at Council, and the feedback we receive is anonymised and circulated to teams, so we can work to improve our services and, in turn, the community’s satisfaction.”

As the phone calls are for research purposes, people on the Do Not Call register may still be contacted. If someone has indicated in the past that they do not wish to take part in research purposes, they may be excluded from the call list.

Cr Child said that phone surveys can seem suspicious, but that National Field Services will only call to talk about Council services.

“We understand the hesitancy a lot of the community will have for phone surveys, considering the extreme amount of scamsbeing

residents may be surveyed over the phone regarding their satisfaction with Council services over the coming months.

conducted over phones.

“The fact is that phone surveys are still an excellent way to get feedback from a representative sample of our community, so we encourage community members to take part, as long as they feel comfortable to do so.

“In these calls you will never be asked for by name; the staff will identify themselves as a member of National Field Services, and calls will come from a number beginning in (03) 9977 – never a mobile number.

“You will never be asked to provide card details, bank details or any login details for anywhere – if you’re ever asked these details on an unprompted call, from anyone, you should contact the institution they are calling from, to check if the call is legitimate.”

Community members with questions about the survey are welcome to call Council’s Customer Experience team to chat on 1300 368 333.

Warratina Lavender Farm is hosting its 3rd Annual Dog Day Event on 23rd February 2025

We hope you and your canine can be there to celebrate this special Doggy Day.

The Dog Day is a community event bringing together dog owners, families and pet lovers for a day of entertainment, activities, demonstrations and doggy education.

Although we already have a number of vendors we are reaching out for more stall holders to apply for a space & take the opportunity of show-casing your products. Cost of a stall is only $50 +gst.

Come & enjoy an exciting day filled with dog eccentric activities, dog photography, grooming, browse at the stalls, take part in the competitions, be entertained & learn from the demonstrators.

There will be talks by Dog Rescue Services, training your dog, grooming & more Competitions will include best behaved dog, best jumper, best catcher, best wagger & best dressed. There will be prizes to be won.

Food vendors & refreshments from the Lavender Tea Room will keep you well fed.

Entry: By Donation

Where: Warratina Lavender farm, 105 Quayle Rd, Wandin North

When: 23rd February 2025

Time: 09.00-4pm

Enquiries: 0417 589 231 or 0448 983 332

Email: info@warratinalavender.com.au

Yarra Ranges

(File)

Chime in with your ideas for a Yarra and Dandenong Ranges-themed edition of Monopoly. (File)

Queer youth writing

By Callum Ludwig

A new creative outlet for queer youth in the Yarra Ranges is set to start up in 2025.

Supported by a $10,000 grant from Round 14 of the Health Equal Youth (HEY) grants program, the Yarra Ranges Queer Youth Writers Collective is set to bring writing workshops to young queer writers across the region.

Workshop Facilitator Sophia Thomas said the idea of Yarra Ranges Queer Youth Writers Collective is to provide a no-cost group to connect with other like-minded Queer writers and artists of any skill, aged 16-25.

“We have set out to provide 15 fortnightly sessions for 2025, split across different Yarra Ranges regions, in the sessions we hope to provide an opportunity for peer feedback, exploration of different writing styles, a sense of connection between like-minded peers and increased understanding of diverse experiences,” she said.

“In my experience having creative peers can be immensely helpful to the development and enjoyment of my writing and drawing. Being able to bounce ideas off, proofread and give feedback and simply enjoying each other’s creation,”

“Specifically having a queer group and leaders will help young Queer, Transgender and NonBinary people, feel safer sharing their ideas and enjoying themselves. Being surrounded by Queer people will increase the quality of feedback, as they may understand and share similar experiences.”

The Yarra Ranges Queer Youth Writers Collective was awarded a grant in the Youth-Led category, designated for projects which will be led by young people themselves.

Ms Thomas said the core idea is to connection and to learn from each other.

“We have made sure attendees have the opportunity to facilitate sessions, to be able to share their experience and creative practice. The attendees will also be making decisions on what topics they want to explore and different forms of writing and creatives they want to learn from,” she said.

“I find that storytelling is a great way to con-

nect with other people. For myself, reading aloud helps with being able to get through reading a big chunk of text and I also get to practice presentation skills and my voice, increasing my confidence,”

“Participants also don’t have to write, I am an avid comic-book fan, and love drawing, so people will be encouraged to tell and share stories in their own way.”

Ms Thomas will also be supported by the Yarra Ranges Youth Development team who have been an ‘immense help’.

MS Thomas said a large part of the grant will go towards employing young creatives to teach each other.

“Along with the facilitation opportunities, there will be spots for peer volunteers who can help people feel welcome, encourage discussion and support the facilitator and group. Additionally we will be able to have a few workshops from Authors and creatives,” she said.

“We will also provide training, snacks, and

transport support for young people who need it, to ensure that all young people feel supported and comfortable in the group,”

“We are super grateful to the Victorian Government and Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic) for funding this through the Victorian Government’s Healthy Equal Youth Program, and for providing opportunities for many years for Young Queer people to be able to connect with each other and increase their wellbeing.”

Anyone interested in the Yarra Ranges Queer Youth Writers Collective can check out @yarrarangesyouth on Instagram for updates and other opportunities or email youth@yarraranges.vic. gov.au to ask to be updated via email. Expression of Interest and sign-up forms are currently in the works and more information will be available soon.

Head of YACVic Rural Derm Ryan said this year’s HEY Grant recipients represent a broader diversity across the community than they have ever experienced previously.

“This highlights that LGBTIQA+ identity is not bound by where you live, the colour of your skin, your religious affiliation, cultural background, or your access to resources,” he said.

“When given the chance, we can all play a part in building a stronger community.”

$102,000 will be distributed across 13 groups across the state through the latest round of HEY Grants.

Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt and Minister for Equality Vicki Ward both welcomed the latest round of grants.

“The Healthy Equal Youth grants are supporting our young people to lead the way in initiatives that celebrate diversity and inclusion while eliminating stigma and discrimination. These projects will help young LGBTIQA+ people to feel safe and empowered to tell their stories – ensuring they can live freely and authentically,” Minister Stitt said.

“We’re focused on supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young LGBTIQA+ Victorians and building a future where everyone feels included and celebrated,” Minister Ward said.

Get fired up at the Kallista CFA Open Day

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Kallista-The Patch CFA is excited to invite the community to their Open Day on Saturday 1 February, from 10am to 12.30pm.

The free event promises not just a fun day for the whole family, but also an invaluable opportunity to connect with local CFA volunteers, who are keen to share their expertise on fire safety.

The station’s captain, Luke Maclean is looking forward to welcoming everyone.

“We’re always happy to engage with the community,” he said.

“Whether you’re interested in fire safety or just want to check out the fire truck, we encourage you to come along. It’s a relaxed atmosphere, and we’re happy to show you around. We don’t bite, and there’s something for everyone - adults, kids, or anyone just curious about what we do.”

The Open Day is packed with activities for all ages - kids will have the chance to meet Captain Koala, play the Hoses and Ladders game, and take a look at Little Lex Helitak - the CFA’s mini helicopter.

Mr Maclean understands that children are often captivated by the equipment, but he also recognises the importance of encouraging adults to get involved as well.

“The kids always enjoy having a go with the hoses, but the adults get something out of it too. It’s a chance for families to come together, have fun, and talk about fire safety,” he said.

“We want to make sure everyone leaves with a little more knowledge about how to prepare for fire season.”

For adults, the Fire Safety Essentials session will run from 11am to 12pm.

This session will cover key topics like understanding local fire risks, how to prepare for a bushfire, the importance of knowing fire danger ratings, and how to create a Bushfire Survival Plan.

“This is a great opportunity to get practical advice on fire safety, and ways to keep their homes safe - we always encourage people to check their fire alarms, and if anyone needs help replacing them, we’re more than happy to do that for free

- it’s one of the most important things you can do to keep your home safe,” Mr Maclean said.

“It’s all about being prepared. You might not think you need it now, but it’s important to be ready when fire season arrives.”

In addition to the fun activities and fire safety information at the CFA station, there will also be a sausage sizzle and information stall at the nearby market from 9.30am to 1pm.

Local volunteers will also have a range of homemade goods for sale, including jams, preserves, and other treats, with all proceeds going to support the station.

“We’re so grateful for the community’s support, and the funds raised will help keep our station equipped and ready for emergencies,” the captain said.

It’s a great way to enjoy some delicious, locally made items while helping the CFA continue its vital work.

Mr Maclean hopes the community will take the time to enjoy a meal and chat with CFA members.

Brigade delivers free calendar

By Tanya Steele

CFA Ferntree Gully has released an annual calendar for the first time to over 5000 residences in its local area – making an outstanding effort for the brigade’s bushfire safety education and community engagement.

Residents in Ferntree Gully were treated just in time for Christmas to the free firsttime release of a CFA calendar created and hand-delivered by their local brigade.

A longtime volunteer at the Ferntree Gully CFA Graham Crichton (who has clocked up 40 years of service with the brigade) has spent some time in education roles and said the idea came from a friend who had been sending Mr Crichton a yearly calendar created by the Somerville CFA.

Mr Crichton thought it would be a good idea to use in Ferntree Gully and presented it to his brigade as a concept.

“I thought to myself, this might be a better way of making money than doing a tin rattle,” he said.

“The result is we’ve produced this incredible calendar.”

The calendar provides seasonally appropriate fire safety information – with everything from fire safety tips to burn-offs.

Notably, the calendar includes a QR link each month so people can check fire danger for the day and get more in-depth information on several topics on the CFA website.

“I’d call it a smart calendar because really it’s designed to inform the community, not only about what’s going on with the fire danger but also to inform the community about who we are and how we operate,” said Mr Crichton.

“We need community members to keep the brigade viable.”

After the project was greenlit, the Ferntree Gully CFA got into action and got local sponsors from the area on board.

“We had to do a lot of foot slogging to go around and get the people to sponsor us, because if we didn’t cover our costs of printing – we couldn’t really go ahead,” said Mr Crichton.

The calendar was then thoughtfully created and printed by members and Mr Crichton said local businesses contributing as sponsors also meant a lot.

“It was done 100 per cent by brigade members, some of the smaller traders decided they would have one or two ads or even one – it all goes into making it a feasible situation,” he said.

Mr Crichton said he hope the idea gets picked up by other brigades.

“As our first attempt, we’re pretty happy,” he said.

“We’re all about building connections,” he said.

“The more we can connect with locals and share our knowledge, the better prepared everyone will be when it comes to fire safety.”

Mr Maclean also highlighted how important it is for the CFA to have strong relationships with the local community.

“At the end of the day, we’re here for everyone. The Open Day is a chance for us to show who we are and for the community to learn more about what we do,” he said.

“We want people to feel comfortable asking questions, and we’re always here to help, whether it’s during a fire emergency or just to share advice and tips.”

Mr Maclean and his team are eager to meet everyone and share their passion for keeping the community safe.

Whether you’re after the fire truck, safety tips, or just a look around, don’t miss this open day –you might leave with new insights on protecting your home and loved ones from fire.

Kallista-The Patch CFA is ready to show visitors the ropes at the Open Day. (Supplied)

Mr Crichton describes the calendar as more of a ‘smart’ calendar. (Tanya Steele)

Sophia Thomas will be facilitating the Yarra Ranges Queer Youth Writers Collective, with support from the Yarra Ranges Youth Development team. (Supplied)

Turn to Treadworx

Located in the heart of Lilydale, Treadworx is a family-owned business that’s been delivering top-quality tyre, wheel, and suspension services for over 6 years. Known for their friendly approach and deep expertise, Treadworx is the goto spot for all your automotive needs, catering to a wide range of vehicles, from everyday cars to robust 4x4s and even wheelbarrows.

They offer an impressive range of tyres from leading brands like Maxxis, Yokohama, Falken, Kumho, and many more. Whether you’re looking for durability, performance, or a bit of both, you’ll find the perfect tyre for your vehicle here. Their wheel selection is equally extensive, featuring popular names such as Extreme 4x4, Dynamic, Sniper, ROH, PDW, Lenso, and others,

ensuring a stylish and functional fit for any ride.

Treadworx is also proud to be an authorized Fulcrum Suspensions dealer. They provide a comprehensive range of suspension products from Fulcrum, tailored to meet the needs of every type of vehicle.

Owner Nathan Hawkless sums it up well: “With over 20 years of experience and a knowledgeable team, we’re dedicated to offering a wide range of high-quality products and services at competitive prices,” he said. For expert advice, exceptional service, and a personal touch, Treadworx Lilydale is your local destination. Stop by and find out why they’re the preferred choice for so many!

Treadworx Lilydale are your friendly local experts for tyres, wheels and suspension. (Stewart Chambers: 426116)

Treadworx owner Nathan Hawkless. (426116)

Food relief pop ups easing pressures

By Tanya Steele

Food relief has continued throughout January all throughout the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges as ‘pop-up’ food relief days try to ease the pressure on vulnerable communities.

The hot weather did not deter the volunteers from the Foothills community volunteer crew on Friday 21 January as they hosted a free pop-up food relief stall in in Upwey.

The stall ran in Upwey Baptist Church and gave the community a chance to drop in and fill a few bags of produce.

Outer East Foodshare Secretary Marilyn Lam-

bert said that Outer East Foodshare was thrilled to have supported 16 pop-up fresh food markets across Yarra Ranges and Knox this summer.

“It helped us, as we still collected donated food seven days a week, and we wanted to help those doing it tough,” she said.

“Markets from Healesville and Yarra Junction through to Boronia and Ferntree Gully have shared out over 6 tonnes of delicious food.”

“We hope they’ve given people a chance to enjoy treats from mangoes to cooked lasagna.”

Ms Lambert told Star Mail in November that the planned pop-ups would be providing several food access points across the Yarra Ranges, Knox

and Maroondah as traditional bigger agencies would not be open.

With kids home for the holidays, Ms Lambert said that lots of fresh plums, cherries and blueberries were snapped up quickly too.

“We thank the local food relief agencies that put together the market teams, and very importantly our OEF Drivers who have worked every day except Christmas Day and New Year’s Day,” she said.

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

Upwey South trio volunteer at Aussie Open

The Australian Open (AO) is not only a stage for the world’s best tennis players; it also provides a space for Victorian youngsters to shine.

Three volunteers from the Upwey South Tennis Club have been involved in the fun and make up the team of 17 dedicated volunteers who stepped up to assist Tennis Victoria staff in carrying out their daily tasks during the busy AO season.

Finn, Shae, and Josh were the proud representatives of Upwey South Tennis Club, and have brought enthusiasm, dedication, and a shared passion for tennis to their volunteer roles.

Josh and Shae participated in Tennis Victoria’s Future Leaders program in 2023, while Finn completed the program most recently in 2024.

Their club’s committee and coach have played a vital role in supporting their journey, fostering their growth and enabling them to give back to the tennis community.

Shae said their coaches encouraged us to join Future Leaders and that the support of Upwey South Tennis Club’s committee and coach has been instrumental in fostering an environment where young players feel motivated to step up and contribute.

Josh and Shae’s involvement with Upwey South Tennis Club has extended well beyond the Future Leaders program.

Their contributions to the club include assisting with holiday clinics alongside the club’s coaches, participating in ongoing treasurer meetings to support grant-writing efforts and organising and running tournaments to foster engagement within the club.

These initiatives showcase their dedication to nurturing a thriving tennis community and ensuring their club’s continued success.

When asked what excites him most about volunteering at the AO, Josh said he is most excited to see the up-and-coming players and to witness some really great quality tennis.

Finn, the youngest and the most recent graduate of the Future Leaders program out of the trio, has already demonstrated great initiative.

His Future Leaders project centres on celebrating Upwey South TC’s 50th anniversary, an

event scheduled for late March and his efforts are set to create a memorable milestone for the club and its community.

The Future Leaders program by Tennis Victoria equips young tennis enthusiasts with the skills and confidence to take on leadership roles within their clubs and communities. For Josh, Shae, and Finn, the program has been a valuable experience, providing them with opportunities to grow and make meaningful contributions.

Their efforts at the Australian Open and within Upwey South Tennis Club demonstrate the positive impact of investing in youth leadership through programs such as Future Leaders. Through their hard work and genuine passion for the sport, they are not only shaping their own futures but also inspiring others to get more involved at their local club.

Some of their daily tasks at the AO involved working alongside Tennis Victoria staff to manage groups of young players engaging in the Kids

Who to call when noise annoys

For anyone being annoyed by noise, from industry, construction, loud entertainment venues or just noisy neighbours, EPA Victoria has the quick guide on who to call when it’s all too loud.

EPA Victoria CEO Lee Miezis said excessive noise is not just annoying, it can harm your health and the environment, too.

“EPA, your local council and Victoria Police all play a role in enforcing the regulations, and it is not just about volume limits,” Mr Miezis said.

“Noise can cause harm when it disturbs sleep or interferes with rest and recreation. That’s all part of the General Environmental Duty (GED), Victorian law that makes it everyone’s responsibility to take reasonable steps to reduce the risk of harm to people and the environment,”

And since the GED applies to everyone, EPA urges you to remember that you might be the noisy one, if you’re not being considerate.

“This summer, be kind to the environment and your community; fulfil your environmental duty, assess how your activities may impact the environment, your community and your neighbours, and take whatever action is necessary,” Mr Miezis said.

Noise is one of the most common types of pollution reported to EPA. In 2024, EPA received over 7,700 reports, nearly half of them involving shops and offices (25 per cent) and residences (18 per cent).

Industry accounted for 15 per cent of noise complaints, construction sites 13 per cent, indoor entertainment venues eight per cent, and outdoor entertainment events and venues four per cent.

At the lower end of the scale, major infrastructure projects were less than two per cent and wind turbines less than one per cent of complaints.

“In the early days of Covid-19 in 2020/21, reports of noise from residences more than doubled, and reports about industrial premises dropped to less than half. Clearly, more people were at home to hear, and make, unreasonable noise,” Mr Miezis said.

So, who do you call when noise annoys?

• Residential: Council (or Police after hours)

• Commercial/industrial: EPA Victoria

• Licensed music venue: Liquor Control

Victoria if it’s a licensed pub, club or bar

• For the full story on what makes unreasonable noise and who to contact, visit the EPA website’s new Reporting Noise page: epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/ noise-pollution

on Court activities.

The trio have been acting as role models for young players, encouraging positive behaviour and sportsmanship. They also help with the setup and pack-down of equipment for each Kids on Court session, ensuring courts are prepared and in optimal condition for the next group. In doing this, they proactively ensure the safety and wellbeing of all players.

As the Australian Open continues, the contributions of these young leaders remind us of the power of community and the importance of supporting the next generation of tennis enthusiasts.

Upwey South Tennis Club can be proud of the legacy Josh, Shae, and Finn are building, both on and off the court.

• For more information about the Future Leaders Program here: https://www.tennis.com.au/ vic/future-leaders

• Stay up to date with #VicsAtTheAO to see what Victorians have been up to at the AO!

Where and how to file a noise complaint. (File)

Finn, Shae, and Josh (right to left), proud representatives of Upwey South Tennis Club. (Tennis Victoria)

Foothills volunteers at their pop up in Upwey on Friday 21 January.(Supplied)

Drivers Di and Jan from Outer East Food Share.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Body image in art focus

By Callum Ludwig

After a popular first showing in 2024, Body of Wellbeing Limited (BOWL)’s Body of Empowerment exhibition is making a return in April.

Held in March 2024, the first edition of the exhibition in the Warburton Waterwheel gallery was a display of new and existing artwork from Yarra Ranges-based women artists aged over 18 with a focus on body image.

Executive Director of BOWL Louise Wigg said they’re hoping it will build on the success of last year’s exhibition as a showcase for the amazingly talented women artists throughout the Yarra Valley.

“We also ask our artists to provide context to their piece/s by revealing aspects of the journey they have shared with their bodies and/or how their piece/s represent body empowerment,” she said.

“We find that people who see our exhibitions resonate with both of these parts. We hope this encourages everyone to bring in more compassion, acceptance and love to their relationship with their body.”

BOWL is seeking expressions of interest from local women and women-identifying artists and is open this year to artists aged 14 years and older.

Ms Wigg said they were happy with many aspects of last year’s exhibition.

“The number and wide variety of the art that was submitted as part of our exhibition was amazing, we had sculptures, paintings, drawings, photography, textiles, pottery, mosaics, just to name a few,” she said.

“We were also grateful to our artists for the depth and variations in the stories that accompanied the pieces. We were grateful to have received wonderful feedback from people who came to see our exhibition with one audience member describing it as ‘life-changing’. We hope they’ll all come back this year.”

Last year’s event coincided with International Women’s Day held on 8 March every year and was

a new development in BOWL’s ‘My Body’s Story’ body empowerment program.

Ms Wigg said BOWL believes positive and empowering narratives about all bodies is crucial as the relationship we share with our body is central to our sense of self.

“BOWL was formed as a Not-For-Profit organisation in 2023 to lead work related to body image, eating disorders, weight bias and stigma. We speak with many people about these issues, especially women,” she said.

“Our project, My Body’s Story, was designed in recognition that women often experience a disconnection from their bodies due to societal pressures such as objectification, weight-centred attitudes, and the pervasive diet culture,”

“Many women describe feeling as if their bodies were ‘battlegrounds’. So this project was originally designed to lead women through a process of

reconnecting with their beautiful, unique bodies, listening to deep body wisdom and celebrating their journeys towards body empowerment.”

As part of the exhibition, BOWL will be hosting a ‘taster’ information session on Sunday 27 April at 11am at the Warburton Waterwheel about the My Body’s Story programs they have scheduled later this year.

Ms Wigg said if the idea of this exhibition inspires you, then give it a go.

“We are very open to all art forms and really encourage the artists to share their own perspective on the subject matter, we don’t have any expectations except honest creativity,” she said.

“How we relate to our bodies and how we express this relationship can sometimes be hard to put into words because it’s a felt sense not a cognitive experience,”

“Many pieces of art originate from this same feeling space, so whichever medium resonates with the artist, is a perfect way to feel into and express this relationship.”

Anyone interested in becoming a part of the exhibition can fill out the Expression of Interest form at: forms.gle/S9rf2aT2xuCdhsc59.

The Body of Empowerment exhibition has been sponsored by Upper Yara Community Enterprise (UYCE).

Yarra Valley’s artistic gem heads to The Other Art Fair

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

Yarra Valley-based artist Tania Chanter, often described as the ‘accidental artist’, is set to showcase her distinctive artworks at The Other Art Fair in Melbourne late January.

This will be her first time participating in the event, and she’s eager to meet art enthusiasts and potential buyers in person, allowing them to experience her pieces up close.

Known for her whimsical landscapes and textured aerial views, Ms Chanter’s work is inspired by the natural beauty of her surroundings in Victoria, particularly the Dandenong Ranges, where she has spent much of her adult life.

Her art reflects a deep fascination with light, colour, and the way nature evokes a sense of wonder.

Her textured aerial views, which capture landscapes from above, offer a fresh perspective on the world - inviting viewers to engage with the intricacies of terrain and human interaction with the environment.

“My works at The Other Art Fair will cover a broad range of subjects, including aerial landscapes, atmospheric seascapes, and whimsical hilltop scenes,” she said.

“I’m always pushing myself to refine my style and quality, which means continually experimenting with new variations on my themes. This ensures I’m not painting the same thing all the time.”

Ms Chanter’s process of creating texture and layers in her artwork is both intuitive and hands-on.

She begins with a textured gesso base on canvas or board, then uses palette knives, sponges, and even her hands to build depth.

After applying the physical textures, she uses transparent glazes of paint to highlight the layers, creating dynamic and organic effects that invite viewers to explore the work closely.

As a self-taught artist, Ms Chanter’s journey has been one of experimentation and discovery.

“Being self-taught has given me the freedom

Yarra Valley artist Tania Chanter is showcasing her work at ‘The Other Art Fair’ in Melbourne this January. (Supplied)

to approach art with curiosity,” she said.

“I’ve learned to embrace imperfection, and some of my best pieces have come from happy accidents.”

Over the years, her process has evolved from intuitive self-expression to a more refined bal-

ance of structure and spontaneity, resulting in the signature textured, layered landscapes that she’s known for today.

In 2024, the artist’s career reached significant milestones, including being recognised as one of Bluethumb’s best-selling artists.

She also collaborated with renowned interior designer Mark Alexander, gaining valuable insights into how her artwork can enhance interior spaces. These experiences have helped her grow as an artist and expanded her opportunities in the design world.

“I’m excited for the year ahead, my goal is to keep creating art that inspires and connects with others, while continuing to evolve and refine my style,” she said.

At The Other Art Fair, she will be exhibiting her latest works, including new textured cloudscapes, whimsical landscapes, and aerial views, alongside a selection of framed artworks featuring painted quirky patterns.

Ms Chanter is particularly excited about the opportunity to interact with art lovers face-toface.

“It’s a chance to hear directly from people who connect with my work,” she said.

“I love meeting new collectors and discussing my art with them - it’s a wonderful experience.”

Her partnership with Fantastic Framing, who has worked with her on framing for Bluethumb and other exhibitions, plays an important role in how her work is presented.

“Fantastic Framing ensures that my pieces are showcased at their best,” she said.

“A great frame doesn’t just protect the artwork; it enhances the viewer’s experience and creates a cohesive presentation.”

With a successful year behind her, Ms Chanter is looking forward to the new opportunities and connections that The Other Art Fair will bring.

Whether it’s meeting new customers or connecting with long-time followers, she’s excited to continue sharing her artistic journey.

The gallery was full for the opening of last year’s Body of Empowerment exhibition. (Christine Johanna Photography)

Artist Leoni Claire at the 2024 edition of the Body of Empowerment exhibition.

L-R: BOWL Board of Directors Melissa Grasso, Louise Wigg, Michele Osterhoudt and Cat McKay.

Crime stat trends concern

We have welcomed the first month of 2025 and with it, new changes and possibilities locally in the Yarra Ranges and at a state level.

For myself, I am excited to include the new role of Shadow Minister for Crime Prevention to my existing portfolios of Shadow Minister for Women and Prevention of Family Violence.

Being Shadow Minister for Crime Prevention goes hand in hand with my other portfolios and will allow me to work towards making our area, and Victoria, a safer place to live.

The Yarra Ranges is a great place to live and work, brimming with opportunity.

Crime numbers in the Yarra Ranges Shire are comparatively low, but trends are worrying.

We don’t want to see crime stats continue to climb in 2025.

Last year, Crime Statistics Victoria reported increases in crime throughout the Yarra Ranges Shire.

This includes a 121 per cent increase in resi-

The state of

affairs

Cindy McLeish MP Member for Eildon

dential aggravated burglary from 29 cases in 2023, to 64 cases in 2024.

Motor vehicle theft increased 66 per cent from 143 cases reported in 2023 to 237 in 2024.

On a positive note, theft from retail stores has dropped three per cent, from 461 cases in 2023 to 446 cases in 2024.

Although, this is still 446 too many.

The Allan Labor Government are not making crime prevention easier, considering in the past

A fine example of romantasy

Book review of The North Wind by Alexandria Warwick

The North Wind, by American author Alexandria Warwick, is the second work in the romantasy genre that this reviewer has ever read.

It allows this reviewer to avoid being affected by too many other readers whose comments centre on how similar or different this book is to other titles in the genre.

The first book in the Four Winds series, The North Wind is a standalone story “inspired by Beauty and the Beast and the myth of Hades and Persephone” as described by the publisher.

It is interesting that literary tropes like these may serve as points of reference, making it easier for publishers and authors to connect with readers.

But tropes can be and often are the first criterion for assessing a book’s performance.

For example, the story’s first-person narrator Wren is a reminder of Katniss in The Hunger Games, a huntress who volunteers to take her sister’s place.

In this case, Wren is to be sacrificed to the North Wind, also known as the Frost King and bringer of winter.

Her blood will be used to sustain the Shade, the barrier that protects her hometown from the icy Deadlands.

Thanks to the author’s rich and vivid descriptions, the Deadlands is a fascinating place.

The rivers Les and Mnemenos, the brothers Sleep and Death, the judgement of the dead, the City of Gods and the towns of Neumovos and Makarios – not to mention the darkwalkers – these give new meanings to the notion of eternality.

Meanwhile, Boreas is more of a traditional character, like the handsome, arrogant, broody, antisocial, often misunderstood yet ultimately immortalised Mr Darcy that is the favourite of all

PASSION

FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

(female) readers.

With his characterisation entirely done through the eyes of Wren, the author ensures that Boreas captures readers’ hearts in the story’s enemies-to-lovers process.

In contrast, Wren is presented with all of her virtues and flaws, her fervent motives and hidden agendas, and her triumphs and failures.

This allows readers to judge her, and makes one wonder whether her portrayal as a strong female character would be any different if the story were written from Boreas’s or a third person’s perspective.

With that said, Wren is feisty and stubborn, and while she is loyal and fearless, she is also broken and deeply insecure.

Her evolution and redemption is subtly handled, and gives emphasis to other factors that contribute to her relationship with Boreas.

It is a relationship where both parties are able to find their lost selves in their discovery of each other.

The North Wind achieves a healthy balance between romance and fantasy and a refreshing re-imagination of myths and fairy tale. This reviewer looks forward to reading the other books in the series.

two years they have cut $11 million (46 per cent) to Crime Prevention programs, cut funding for proactive police programs, and cut the Specialist Crime Prevention Unit.

Further, the 1000 vacancies on police rosters are surely interfering with proactive prevention patrols to stop crime in its tracks – locally and statewide.

That’s why, in my Shadow Minister role I will focus on strengthening crime prevention and advocating for those in need to ensure families and the community feel safe to live and work.

As the local member, I am continuing my ongoing commitment to ensure the region is the best place to live.

I am raising important local issues in Parliament and going in to bat for the underdog to make community voices heard.

Easily the biggest community concern in the Yarra Ranges is the deplorable condition of our roads.

Quick fixes don’t last, and road users are sick and tired of damaging their cars from hitting potholes.

Road surfaces need serious repairs to make them safe of all road users, locals and visitors alike.

Thank you to the community members who contact my office to report dodgy roads and send photos of damage that I can bring to the Minister’s attention and raise in Parliament.

I encourage everyone to continue to do so.

At a State level, the Liberal Nationals, under Leader of the Opposition, Brad Battin, will focus on building a strong, alternative government, working hard to provide relief to families struggling with the cost of living, fixing the broken health system, and making our communities safe again.

There is much to look forward to in 2025 and many goals to kick.

I will continue striving to meet them all and represent the community.

Lost Highway is better

Mulholland Drive

Starring Naomi Watts, Laura Harring and Justin Theroux Rated M 3.25/5

Renowned filmmaker David Lynch passed away on January 15, so this week I thought I’d take a new look at Mulholland Drive, his most acclaimed film but one I’ve never liked very much.

In this surreal 2001 exploration of Hollywood’s seedy underbelly, aspiring actress Betty (Naomi Watts) meets an amnesiac woman who calls herself Rita (Laura Harring), and director Adam (Justin Theroux) clashes with powerful people over a casting choice.

Mulholland Drive features some brilliant vignettes but a severe lack of structure, no doubt resulting from its origins as a rejected TV pilot.

The acting is somewhat stilted, which Lynch often uses to aid a sense of eerie unreality; Watts’ acting is unnaturally perky early on, but grows more grounded as she helps Rita investigate her identity.

Betty’s audition is a knockout show of acting prowess; she discards her ditziness and conjures an unknown sincerity from her cheesy old scene partner.

Adam’s subplot has several funny or intense scenes, but is disconnected from Betty and Rita’s journey and carries little tension,

Entertainment

Gemco is turning 45!

Gemco has a whole weekend of celebrations! Welcome to all across three massive days of entertainment and fun.

• Friday February 28 – Opening Night

The weekend kicks off with Olde Boldes, featuring a variety of short skits, melodrama and cheeky poems from Gemco’s early years.

• Venue: Gemco Hall from 7pm.

• BYO nibbles – light supper provided.

hinging on him acquiescing to an actress we don’t know.

The nearly 2.5-hour narrative wanders along, offering glancing commentary on the exploitation of women in Hollywood, creators compromising their vision under pressure and the inherent prerecorded artifice in film (the latter through a beautiful but blunt sequence in Club Silencio), until it resets for the final half-hour.

Rita’s past and Betty’s stories are unresolved, and the implied ‘it was all a dream’ twist is an unsatisfying cop-out.

Lynch fans let his trademark dreamlike atmosphere wash over them, but I just can’t do that when it overwhelms the storytelling, and Mulholland Drive remains the same slack, poorly-structured, intermittently-thrilling film as ever.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

• Drinks available at the bar – bookings essential via gemcoplayers.org

• Saturday 1 March - Open Stage

Come along and share our talents or enjoy a night of diverse performances at the company’s Open Stage event.

All are welcome to participate or just come watch!

• Gemco Hall from 8pm.

• BYO Nibbles – Light supper provided, drinks at Bar

• Sunday – Monday – Open Day and Barbecue. Join the company for a relaxed day of reconnecting with old friends and making new ones.

Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre:

• Opening is Moon Over Buffalo Season: 13 February – 1 March .

• Next is Haunted Season: 24 April – 10 May.

• Followed by The Diary of Anne Frank Season: 3 – 19 July.

• Then comes an English comedy in The Importance of Being Earnest. Season: 11 – 27 September.

• And a musical comedy Sister Amnesia’s Country Western Nunsense Jamboree.

• Season: 20 November – 5 December. The 1812 Theatre Season:

• Spider’s Web Season: 20 February – 15 March.

• The Thrill of Love Season: 3 April – 3 May.

• The Housekeeper Season: 22 May – 14 June.

• Home, I’m Darling Season: 7 – 30 August.

• Speaking in tongues Season: 2 – 25 October. Rhinestone Rex, and Miss Monica Season: November 13 – December 5. Shorts and Youth Theatre

• Short Shorts Season: 28 January – 1 February.

• Sweeney Todd on the Razor’s Edge Season: 1 –12 July.

• Board Shorts Season: 24 – 26 July.

• Season: At 7.30pm Sunday 16 February.

INCREDIBLY IMPRESSIVE SCALE, STYLE, AND SWIMMING POOL

THIS large, lovely home complete with an enviable inground swimming pool and exquisite views is a shining example of how to get the most out of a prestigious Hills property. Boasting a sprawling 1,559sqm (approx.) landscape with sealed circular drive behind secure remote gates, 3 garage parking spaces, and manicured lawn area, “Belmonte” offers a bounty of both form and function.

This double-storey dwelling begins in the generous foyer with rich timber floors. The front of the residence features an ensuite bedroom with walk-in robe adjacent to a flexible bedroom/study with built-in storage. At the rear of the residence, the expansive living and dining area is overlooked by the superb kitchen with stainless steel appliances. With French doors to the wrap-around verandah with pool views, it is easy to envisage living here.

On the upper level, an equally large living area with quality carpet and its own balcony with hillside views is the bonus space every family craves. An additional ensuite bedroom and further family bedrooms reside on this level, opening options for multi-generational living.

The sheer scale of the bathrooms, laundry, and storage incorporated into this impressive home have been considered with family in mind.

In addition, there is a separate pool house with bathroom and sink kitchenette for convenience.

A grand residence with a glorious list of bonus features, this property is a rare find. Prompt inspection is advised. Plan your viewing today.

• Beautiful family-friendly property with picturesque views, secure sealed drive, 3 garage spaces, and wrap-around verandahs

• Grand double-storey design with expansive living areas on both levels, gas ducted heating, split system heating/cooling, and ducted vacuum

Superb kitchen with stainless steel appliances and walk-in pantry

Enviable ensuite bedrooms with walk-in robes on each floor

Solar heated inground swimming pool, convenient pool house, and manicured lawn area.

SOLID PRIVATE HOME WITH POOL

AS you drive down the sealed drive you will find this hidden gem featuring 4 generous bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 living areas, a double carport, handy shed and glorious solar heated in-ground pool set amongst nature!

On entering the home into the foyer, you are welcomed by the formal lounge room with ambient wood fire, the perfect place to relax and entertain. Adjacent is the spacious master bedroom with walk-in-robe, updated ensuite and French doors that open onto the private, landscaped rear yard where you can enjoy your morning cuppa in peace. Down the hall you will find 2 big bedrooms, one being a king size room with double robes and large colonial windows that let in an abundance of natural light.

The kitchen/meals/family room is open plan and features a toasty wood heater whilst the home has mains gas ducted heating throughout for the ultimate in comfort and convenience. The kitchen is well-appointed with a new dishwasher, electric wall oven and 900mm induction cooktop and plenty of storage and bench space perfect for cooking up a storm. At this end of the home is the 4th bedroom, family bathroom and laundry with rear yard access.

Outside there is a double carport, a lockable shed with roller door, a stunning hedge offering privacy from the neighbours and meandering steps leading to the solar heated inground pool.

What more could you want – inspect this weekend so you don’t miss out.

Call 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.

EXCEPTIONAL INDOOR/OUTDOOR FUSION

Micks - Top Five Favourite Things about this Property

So, if some of your boxes are ticked…best to come and feel the spaces and see if it is right for your needs.

Over three levels this contemporary timber home offers a light, bright interior, and an adaptable floorplan, all within walking distance to the delightful township of Emerald.

Featuring:

4 bedrooms, ensuite to main, WIR and deck

• 3 bedrooms all with BIR’s serviced by the updated bathroom.

• White cabinetry, stone benchtops, and stainless-steel appliances, also a walk-in pantry

Spacious living areas, a rumpus room that could be office, studio, theatre, games room.

• Covered deck for outdoor gatherings.

• Double garage

• Nearly 10,000 m2 land holding of lush ferns, beautiful trees and more.

The latest colour palette, greys, whites accented by timber floors and hints of colour.

Throw away the technology and get back to the great outdoors, visiting wildlife, birds will visit – a lifestyle many will envy.

It is not just a tree change, it’s a better way of life. Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 and Anthony Iorlano 0494 142 438 are ready to show you through.

***CLOSING DATE FOR OFFERS 4pm THURSDAY FEBRUARY 6 (unless sold prior)***

AUCTIONat7pmThur.13/02/25onsite. Idealforthosewhoprioritizeprivacy,thisexceptionalacreageof5.16Haisnestledat theendof aquiet,no-throughroad.Blendingclassicarchitecturewithsensitiveland managementtogetherasone.Thisone-of-a-kindpropertycreates aharmoniousliving experience.Withitstimelessdesign,thischerishedhomeissettoprovidelastingcomfort foryearstocomeandstandsasthehighlightofthisserenenaturalretreat.Don’tmissout onyourchanceat asliceofparadise.

AnthonyIorlano 0494142438 DaveStewart 0411655611

AUCTIONat7pmWed.12/02/25onsite. morethanjustanopportunityfor aquieterlifestyleor afashionabletree-change,thisisan incrediblyrarechancetoplaceyourselfona ‘highpoint’ofthemuchsoughtafterKallista Ridge.Standingproudon3 ACRESwithsweepingviewsofSilvanDam& Warburton Ranges.Featuringanentertainingareaadjacenttotheswimmingpoolwithspa,wallsof glass,bluestonefeaturedfireside,familyroom,rumpusroom,stunningnearnewkitchen, internalspa,longsweepingdriveway&amASSIvEopengarage &workshop/storage.

JanBrewster 0409558805

VIEWS,UNIQUE,GARAGE& SOLAR

Thishomeisdelightfullydifferentbydesign,a freshtakeona ‘hills’home.Topfeatures includeuniqueintriguingarchitecture,views &outlook,openspace,quiet &peaceful, setona stunning,fenced,useablelandwithlushlawns,maturetrees,sealedroad& drivewayaccess,parkingfor 4cars, 2inremotecontrolledgarages,shed,chickencoop solar6.6KW &freshlypaintedinside& out.Thelocationisjustfarenoughfromthetourist crowdsbutstillcloseenoughtoseveraltownshipsand achoiceoflocalamenities.

MickDolphin 0429684522

AlisonBarkley 0494175410

TopFiveThingsaboutthisProperty- quiet& Private,move-inReady,BeautifulEstablished Gardens,YourownCreekandNoTraffic.So,ifsomeofyourboxesareticked…best tocomeandfeel thespacestoseeifitisrightforyourneeds.Setover threelevels, thiscontemporary homeoffers alight,brightinteriorandanadaptable floorplanthat includesspaciouslivingareas thatcouldbeutilizedasanoffice,studio, theatreorgames room.Allwithinwalkingdistancetothedelightfultownshipof Emerald.

CHARMING CABIN IN THE FOREST

A once in a lifetime opportunity - for the first time in over 50 years this hidden gem is available to the market. Nestled at the end of a quiet, no through road, this picturesque cabin offers the ultimate in privacy and serenity. Set within a lush Mountain Ash forest on over 6 acres of land, with Pheasant Creek meandering through the property, it’s the perfect retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The property boasts established gardens that burst into colour year round, creating a vibrant, ever changing landscape. The birdlife here is simply magical with resident lyrebirds and parrots at your front door. The property offers a tranquil immersive connection with nature.

Explore the expansive grounds and absorb the calming energy of your surroundings.

The cozy 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom home invites you to unwind and relax, perfect for a peaceful weekend getaway. Picture yourself by the fire during the middle of winter—this charming cabin exudes warmth and comfort. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful weekend escape or looking for a property with BNB potential, this unique home is an ideal opportunity. Backing onto state forest yet only a short stroll into the township of Warburton where access to the famous rail trail and delightful Yarra River are just a short distance away.

Don’t miss the chance to own this magical hideaway, offering a perfect blend of nature, privacy, and possibility.

StunningAcreageand aRelaxedRuralLifestyle

Adreamlifestyleawaitsyouatthisstunningproperty,seton aglorious11acresofbeautifulrolling pastureit’stheidealplacetostarttorurallifestyle.Thelargeranchstylefamilyhomehasbeen caredforandlovedforover40yearsandoffers 4bedroomsincludinganensuiteinthemain bedroom.Separatefamily/loungeandlivingareasgivethegrowingfamilyplentyofspace.The freshmodernkitchenhasplentyofbenchandcupboardspacewithqualityappliancesandfittings. Ventureoutsideandyourspoiltforspacewithacresandacrestoexploreandenjoy.Amplecar accommodationwith alargecarport,doublelockupgarage,plusopenmachineryshedswith highclearancetosuitcaravans,boatsandfloats.A beautifullypresentedproperty,meticulously maintainedineveryaspectandconvenientlylocated. 115WaresRoad,Wesburn$1,290,000-$1,400,000

CharmingCabinintheForest –OnOver6 Acres Forthefirsttimeinover50yearsthishiddengemisavailabletothemarket.Nestledattheendofa quiet,nothroughroad,thispicturesquecabinofferstheultimateinprivacyandserenity. Setwithina lushMountainAshforestonover6 acresofland,withPheasantCreekmeandering throughtheproperty,it’stheperfectretreatforthoselookingtoescapethehustleandbustleof everydaylife.Thecozy3 bedroom,1 bathroomhomeinvitesyoutounwindandrelax,perfectfor apeacefulweekendgetaway.Backingontostateforestyetonlya shortstrollintothetownshipof Warburton.Don´tmissthechancetoownthismagicalhideaway,offering aperfectblendofnature, privacy,andpossibility.

AffordableOpportunityinthisCharmingHome

Tuckedawayattheendof aquietstreet,thischarminghomeoffersa fantasticopportunityforfirst timebuyersorsavvyinvestors.Currentlytenantedwith asolidrentalreturn,itpresentsgreatvalue. Thecozyhomefeatures2 to 3bedrooms, 1bathroom,andanopenplanlivinganddiningarea, alongwithanoriginalkitchenthatopensouttoa largeoutdoordeckperfectforenjoyingthe serene,treefilledsurroundings. Awoodfireandsplitsystemensureyearroundcomfort,whilethe carportandspaciousbackyardofferplentyofroomtorelaxorentertain.Thispropertyisa wonderful packageandgreatvalueformoney. 38ChristineStreet,Millgrove

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

$530,000-$570,000

AdmireandenjoythiscolourfulandeverchangingvistawithfantasticYarraValleyviewsanda comfortablefamilyhomein apopularandsoughtafterarea,thiscouldbejustwhatyouarelooking for.Thehomeiswellpresentedandverywelllookedafter, amuchlovedfamilyhomeforover30 years.Offering 3bedroomsallwithbuiltinrobesincludinganensuiteinthemainbedroom,spacious openliving/loungeareasgivethegrowingfamilyplentyofspace.Thekitchenhasamplebenchand cupboardspaceplus aseparatemealsarea.Ventureoutsideandenjoytheopenairentertaining, sitbackrelaxandenjoytheviewsandthecolourfulscenery,thekidsandpetswilllovethewide openspacewithapprox.1680sqmtoexplore,enjoyandrunwild.A fantasticpropertyofferingthe growingfamily aconvenientandcomfortablelifestyle.

DavidCarroll

HOME FOCUS

LIFESTYLE ACREAGE WITH MAGNIFICENT HOME

THIS magnificent lifestyle property situated only 550m from Monbulk township is a tantilising display of sophistication inside and out.

Comprising a grand architectural residence settled onto a showcase 2-acre landscape with sealed drive, rolling lawns, firepit area, and convenient sheds and carports, this beautiful property proves you can have it all.

Step from the large verandah into this spectacular residence set over 2 sprawling levels. The primary level boasts timber cathedral ceilings and expanses of glass that overlook the deck and garden. The generous lounge and formal dining area feature a large open wood fire. The gourmet kitchen is adorned with a waterfall island, Haier oven and induction cooktop, Bosch dishwasher, wine cellar, and oversize butlers’ pantry. With an equally comfortable family room with wood fire, a sizeable study with separate entry, 3 beautiful bedrooms including main with 2 walk-in robes and luxurious ensuite, and a show-stopping family bathroom with freestanding tub also on this level, there is a bounty of comfort to be discovered here.

On the lower level, these spaces can be set to suit your way of life. Enjoy a generous rumpus room/art studio with kitchenette that steps out to the alfresco, a games room/second study or bedroom with cosy carpet, and a large bedroom and designer bathroom with frameless shower. The laundry with bonus shower bathroom and the 4-car garage are also accessible on this level.

With so many incredible features set to a backdrop of lush landscaped gardens, this property pulls out all the stops to impress. Plan your viewing today.

• Easy stroll to shopping, schools, and transport

• Gated 8,193sqm (approx.) property with sealed drive, picturesque rolling lawns, carports, and convenient sheds

Expansive family residence with under-house 4-car garage

• Gorgeous gourmet kitchen with waterfall island, Haier and Bosch appliances, versatile butlers’ pantry/storeroom, and wine cellar

• Beautiful bathrooms and luxurious bathrooms on both levels.

HOME ESSENTIALS

RENOVATED 5 BEDROOM HOME AND BUNGALOW

SITUATED on just over 1 acre of flat land, this stunning home with wrap around verandah, where traditional functionality meets modern style and convenience, has all the creature comforts, and room for the largest of families!

The moment you step inside the home you will feel the ambience and quality of this beautiful renovation. Featuring a long, wide, central hallway and 9ft ceilings throughout, the home offers the simplest of floor plans with maximum appeal. From the spacious laundry, with ample storage and bench space and feature Penny Round tiling all the way to the large open lounge room with an ambient, electric fireplace the home oozes elegance and functionality.

Meandering down the hall you will find 5 stylish and spacious, robed bedrooms, the Master with French doors opening onto the rear verandah, a large walk-through robe/ dressing room and an ensuite that is second to none, with double vanity, and brushed gold tapware. The family bathroom is generous in size, and offers a free-standing fluted bath, double vanity and walk in shower and the same level of style is continued in the powder room, conveniently located at the other end of the home. Add to this a separate dining room with ornate cornicing and ceiling rose and French doors to the verandah, located opposite the sun filled, chef’s kitchen with direct access to the entertaining deck overlooking the block. The kitchen is wellappointed with a huge island bench with stone top, new freestanding 900mm gas/electric stove, dishwasher, farmhouse sink, soft close cupboards and drawers, a walk-in pantry, and of course the signature brushed gold door furniture as featured throughout.

Outside, there is a 2-bedroom bungalow with a lounge room and kitchenette space, perfect as guest accommodation or a teenager’s retreat., and the property is fully fenced to keep the children & fur babies safe. Add to this a workshop/shed with concrete floor and power, a circular drive with in/out gates and plenty of room for the shed of your dreams (STCA).

Inspection is essential for those seeking space, style, comfort, convenience and room for all.

Call 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.

Thisimmaculate4BRmudbrickhomeona 2621sqmblockincockatooistheperfectblendofrustic charmwithmoderncomfort,witha gated,sealeddrivewayofferingplentyofspacefor acaravan orboat,& walkingdistancetotown.Enterthroughtheundercoververandah,wheretimberflooring &tallceilingscreate awarm,invitingambiance.Thegenerousloungeroom,witha woodfire &s/s foryear-roundcomfort.Thekitchen/diningareabathedinnaturallightfrom alargeskylightisboth functional &elegant.Withexposedbrickwalls,softclosecabinetry& stonebenchtops.Themaster bedroomfeaturingstunningleadlightwindows,WIR& ensuite.Stepouttotheundercoverarea withviewsofthebackgarden.Threeadditionalbedroomsfeatureclerestorywindows.Fullyfenced garden,witha courtyard,veggiepatchwithwateraccess,gardenshed,& fencedrearpaddock.

ImmaculateCharacterHomewithScenicSurroundings! NestledinthesuburbofEmerald,isthis2,639sqmproperty.Youaregreetedby abrightentryway withpolishedfloorboards,leadingtotheopenplanlounge/diningarea,withwoodfire.The homealsohasGDH &evaporativecoolingthroughout.Frenchdoorsopenfromtheloungetoa sunnyverandah.Thekitchen,with adoublewalloven,gasstovetop, &largewalk-inpantry.The outstandingfeatureisthegenerousislandbenchfittedwithStonebenchtops.Theadjoininglounge areaopenstoa spaciousundercoverdeck.Themasterbedroomwithbaywindows,WIR &ensuite. 2additionalbedroomsbothwithBIR,centralbathroom,& study/4thbedroom.Outside,a double carport,underhousestoragewitha workshop,a 60,000Lwatertank.

25SydneyAvenueEmerald$1,100,000

TheEpitomeofComfortableHillsLiving! On2,567sqmsinEmerald,this4BR,2-bathroomhomeoffers apeacefullifestyle.Theloungeroom offersanopenfireplace& thereisnewhydronicheatingthroughout.Thediningspaceisbathedin naturallight &opensonto aspaciousdeck.Thekitchenfeaturestimberbenchtops& gascooktop, allundertheglowofa skylight &overlookingthefamilyroom/2ndlivingareawithbackyard access.FeaturesincludeTassieoakflooring &stunningrakedtimberceilings.Thereare2 bedrooms downstairsadjacenttothefamilybathroom.A uniquespiralstaircaseleadstotheupperlevel,tothe masterretreatfeaturing aprivatebalcony& ensuite&a4thbedroom,home/office.Outside alarge singlegarageprovidessecureparking& storagespace,twoshedsforwoodstorage& workshop options.

M 0438680032

Nestledona¾acreblock,thispropertyoffers aperfectblendofcomfort &naturalcharm.Step throughtheundercoverentryintothehome,withfloatingtimberfloorsthroughout. 2lightfilled bedroomsarelocatedonthelowerlevel.A centrallylocatedbathroomwithsleekfloatingvanity. Thekitchenwith aSMEGoven,farmhousesink& stonebenchtops.Adjacentisthediningroom, whichopensupviabi-folddoorsontoa spaciousmerbaudeck.Theloungewithitssoaringceilings, woodfireheater,thehomealsooffersGDH.Upstairs,themasterretreatwithhis/hersWIR,office/ study,ensuite& privatebalcony.Outside,Thedeckleadstoanentertainingareawithbrick fireplace& builtinbbq.Stepsdowntoa Spa,surroundedbyglassbalustrades.Thegardensarewell maintained,a largefirepitarea& twogardensheds.

SamanthaScott

PUZZLES

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

ACROSS

1 Eight-legged animal (6)

4 A board game with letter-tiles (8)

9 Mosquito-borne disease (7)

11 Inhabitant of Tel Aviv, say (7)

12 Level of hot or cold (11)

13 Biological blueprint (1,1,1)

14 Food of the Olympian gods (8)

16 Banish (5)

19 Teams (5)

20 A golden anniversary (8)

22 Dazzle (3)

24 English scientist who explained gravity (5,6)

26 Territory ruled by an Islamic monarch (7)

27 Princess Diana’s maiden name (7)

29 Grotesque imitation (8)

30 For blinking (6)

DOWN

1 Total (3)

2 Pakistani capital (9)

3 Spooky (5)

5 Sex (6)

6 Contract (9)

7 Bakery item (5)

8 Period of 17th-century English queen (11)

10 A Middle Eastern language (6)

12 Clear (11)

15 Stubborn (9)

17 Exactly the same (9)

18 Carnival (6)

21 Aptitude (6)

23 Nickname of Eva Perón (5)

25 Dirge (5)

28 Colour of strawberries (3)

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of

No. 223

No. 222

SPORT

Strong foundation set up

By David Marshall

1st and 2nd XI Set the Stage for Thrilling Day Two

With byes for the Women’s and 3rd XI teams, all eyes were on Wandin’s 1st and 2nd XI as they kicked off the first day of their two-day matches. Both sides delivered disciplined performances, keeping their games evenly poised for a big weekend ahead. Here’s how Day 1 unfolded: 1st XI: A Solid Bowling Effort Sets Up a Winnable Chase

Taking on Hoddles Creek away, Wandin won the toss and elected to bowl first, looking to continue the strong bowling performances of recent weeks. The decision paid off instantly, with Dan Trembath striking with his very first ball in the second over. The early pressure continued as tight bowling from Dan and Joel Galvin had the hosts in deep trouble, with Dan picking up a second wicket in the seventh over to leave Hoddles reeling at 2/6.

A brief fightback saw a 40-run partnership develop before Jarrod Dobson stepped up, claiming two quick wickets in succession to reduce Hoddles to 4/50. Dobby finished with a solid spell of 2/37 from 10 overs. The game then entered a challenging period, as Hoddles steadied with a determined 100-run stand. However, Wandin’s bowlers maintained their discipline, and the breakthrough eventually came courtesy of Hamish Lamont, who struck twice in quick succession to break the partnership at 152 and again five runs later. Tim Thorne (1/17) chipped in soon after, and the momentum was back in Wandin’s hands at 7/160.

But Hoddles Creek weren’t done yet. Another crucial 60-run partnership kept the scoreboard ticking before Dan Trembath returned to break through once more, finishing with figures of 3/43 from a marathon 18-over spell. Galvo then took the key wicket of Mclaghan, who had anchored the innings with a well-made 80, ending with figures of 1/56 off 20 overs. Hamish Lamont capped off an impressive day for Wandin with his third wicket, finishing with 3/31 from 11 overs as Hoddles Creek were bowled out for 241. With three overs left in the day, Wandin’s openers had a tricky task to navigate before

stumps. They did just that, finishing the day unbeaten on 3. Now, the stage is set for a big run chase next weekend, with Wandin well within striking distance if the batters can build partnerships and hold their wickets.

2nd XI: A Gritty Fightback Leaves the Game on a Knife’s Edge At home against St Andrews, Wandin lost the toss and was sent in to bowl in the split-innings format. The start was ideal, as Jackson Kneebone

(1/26) struck early, removing a key batter with the score on just 5. However, St Andrews fought back, building a measured 100-run partnership. Despite this, Wandin’s bowlers refused to let the game slip away, keeping tight lines and limiting scoring opportunities. The breakthrough finally came courtesy of Archie Brown (1/14), breaking the partnership at 103. More disciplined bowling followed, and St Andrews finished the first half of their innings at 2/133, keeping the game evenly poised.

Wandin’s reply started in disastrous fashion, losing a wicket on just the second ball of the innings. The top order struggled to settle, and before long, the team found itself in deep trouble at 4/49. With the game hanging in the balance, Peter Vaughan and Leigh Howes came together for a crucial partnership. Combining patience with smart shot selection, they steadied the ship and ensured Wandin remained in the contest.

Leigh played a composed innings, finishing the day unbeaten on 18—showing great restraint in contrast to his usual aggressive style. The star of the innings, however, was Peter Vaughan. Coming in at first drop and facing just the third ball of the match, he showed incredible resilience and determination, carrying his bat through the entire innings. His 74* was not just a personal triumph but a vital effort in keeping Wandin in the game.

At the close of play, Wandin stood at 4/128, just five runs behind St Andrews’ who also have 2 more wickets in the shed. With strong batters yet to come in, Wandin is well-placed to push ahead next week in what promises to be a tense finish.

Looking Ahead: A Crucial Day Two Awaits Both 1st and 2nd XI have set themselves up for thrilling run chases in their respective matches. The 1st XI will need partnerships and patience to chase down 241 and further strengthen their top-four position.

The 2nd XI is locked in a near dead-heat with St Andrews, setting up a gripping second day where every run will count.

With everything on the line, next weekend promises high stakes and intense cricket as Wandin looks to convert these strong positions into victories.

Kilsyth bow out in T20 semi final against Ainslie Park

By Les Hutchings

The 44 team RDCA T20 competition came down to four teams to play off in two semi finals last Tuesday evening for the right to play in the T20 Grand Final.

Undefeated Number 1 seed Kilsyth played Ainslie Park in the Semi Final at Pinks Reserve. It was a hot day with the temperature reaching 36.9C at Kilsyth in the afternoon. Kilsyth Captain Coach Marcus Adams won the toss and elected to field.

With the score on 13, Dillon Bettess was dropped in the third over off Kamal Kuruppu before he had scored, and this proved costly as Bettess and Jake Tucker then put on an opening partnership of 98 in 10.2 overs. Bettess was the first wicket to fall, lbw to left arm spinner Uvindu Wimaladharma for 25 off 27 balls (2 fours & 1 six).

Tucker, who had been particularly punishing with some powerful hitting, was 71 not out at that stage. His 50 had come up off only 27 balls, including two towering sixes. However, Kilsyth continued to fight back with Tucker well caught at fly slip by Mark Unternahrer after attempting a reverse hook shot, with the score now 2/106 after 12 overs. He had made a commanding 74 off 39 balls, including 5 fours and 3 sixes.

Ainslie then lost a clump of wickets: 3/116, 4/119, 5/123 and 6/126 after 16.5 overs, putting Kilsyth back in the game. James Johnstone, who was dropped on 5, was bowled by Scott-Thomas for 15 off 10 balls and Ainslie Park eventually compiled 8/160cc after their allotted 20 overs. For Kilsyth, Mackenzie ScottThomas captured 3/25 off 4 overs, Hayden

Pleming 2/35 off 4 overs, Kamal Kuruppu 1/14 off 4 overs (1 maiden), and Uvindu Wimaladharma 1/32 off 4 overs.

Kilsyth did not get off to the start they wanted and after 3 overs were 2/4, both batsmen being clean bowled by Jake Tucker. Gun Kilsyth batsman, Andy Solomons, who was carrying a back injury, smashed 6, 4 & 4 off consecutive balls in the fourth over but cover drove the last ball low to the ground and was well caught by Jake Tucker off the bowling of Ethan Stone for 15 off 7 balls (2 fours & 1 six). Kilsyth were now 3/18 off 4 overs and in trouble. It became

4/40 on the second ball of the 9th over when Marcus Adams was unfortunately just run out, attempting a second run. Kilsyth then lost several wickets: 5/51, 6/60, 7/64 & 8/68 after 11.3 overs.

A fighting 9th wicket partnership between Uvindu Wimaladharma and Will Beard took the score to 101, when Wimaladharma was stumped off the bowling of Ethan Stone for 26 off 16 balls (1 four), after 15.2 overs. Kilsyth lost their last wicket, Hayden Pleming for 13 off 11 balls (1 four), with the score on 117 after 17.5 overs, with Will Beard remaining 10 not out off

14 balls. For Ainslie Park, Jake Tucker took 2/16 off 4 overs, Ethan Stone 2/21 off 3 overs, Matthew Mountain 2/29 off 3 overs, Captain James Hunter 1/11 off 2.5

and James Johnstone 1/12 off 2 overs. It was a disappointing end to the tournament for Kilsyth, who had played so well in their previous six matches.

Nevertheless, the players can be proud of their overall efforts in reaching the semi final. The Grand Final will now be played between Lilydale and Ainslie Park at Pinks Reserve, Kilsyth on Sunday, 2nd February 2025 from 3.00pm.

overs,

The Kilsyth CC T20 SF Team - The 44 team RDCA T20 competition came down to four teams to play off in two Semi Finals last Tuesday evening. (Supplied)

Mackenzie Scott-Thomas captured 3/25 off 4 overs.

An exhausted Peter Vaughan after his innings of 74 not out. (Supplied)

Two day cricket is back

By Christopher Anderson

Australia Day weekend saw the return of two day cricket and indicated the run home had started in full earnest for the top grades at Mt Evelyn Cricket Club. Meanwhile, the lower grades had the weekend off to have one last break before the run to finals.

The form of the Community Bank - Mt Evelyn 1st XI had been on a steady improve over the middle part of the season, however a close loss to top of the table Warrandyte last round has left the team in a tight tussle with Heathwood and Montrose for the final position in the top 4. Round 12 opponents Chirnside Park are also clinging to their finals hrs despite their lowly position on the ladder. So all was set for an intriguing battle with much to play for.

Chirnside Park captain Scott Reece won the toss and had little hesitation electing to bat in magnificent conditions, on a Gary Martin Oval that had yielding significant runs across the season. The Panthers would make a positive start as early boundaries from the hard new ball would give their innings some impetus before settling into an arm wrestle between bat and ball. Darcy Skene and Jackson McFarlane would hold their nerve against some excellent bowling from Caleb Hrabe and Darcy Fraser, whilst capitalising on scoring opportunities to ensure the scoreboard would continue to tick over.

The pairs’ patience would force the Mounters to explore some alternative bowling options in the search of a breakthrough. With the partnership set, Skene would inexplicable lose his wicket to a false shot from the bowling Will Macklin for 41 with the score on 2/86. McFarlane and new partner Ryder Joyce would ensure there would be no more wobbles before the tea break, and the Panthers would’ve been well satisfied with their position at the half way point. With the score at 2/110, the visitors were placed to kick on the back end of the innings to extend the score beyond 300. With a freshen up over the tea break, Darcy Fraser and Jake Blackwell continued their bowling partnership and they turned the game on its ear upon the resumption of play. Within two balls, Blackwell removed McFarlane for 49, and within six overs the Mounters had reduced Chirnside Park to 6/118, a long way from the lofty heights that looked possible at the break. Blackwell and Fraser teamed masterfully to take wickets and grind the scoring rate to a halt. The Panthers would’ve been well fight on, but the horse had bolted as their innings petered out to be closed with the score on 150.

Blackwell’s bowling figures of 4/8 off 15.1 overs including 11 maiden overs were remarkable, whilst Fraser wasn’t to be ignored with 4/54 off 20 overs. The early dismissal of the visitors innings left the Mounters with fifteen overs to bat, an opportunity to wipe a few runs off the chase, or alternatively, lose a couple of wickets to undo the bowling efforts. Fortunately for the Mounters, openers Adam Smith and Jesse Fraser would not only navigate their way through some healthy shouts for LBW, and some probing bowling, but also take a fair chunk off the chase finishing at 0/41 at stumps.

Mt Evelyn would be well pleased with their efforts on day one, and will be keen to chalk up a victory, however, they will be mindful that early wickets could put some unnecessary pressure on the batting line up.

Professionals Outer East 2nd XI travelled to Norwood, and after notching a string of impressive victories and establishing themselves top four, had another stern test against the Vikings, who with a win against the Mounters would see them jump into the top four. So this game is also poised to have a significant effect on finals calculations.

Upon winning the toss, Mt Evelyn captain, Shane Laird, took the opportunity to give ascendency to his team by putting a score on the board first. His top order bats would soon repay his faith as they would patiently work through some tidy bowling from Norwood’s opening bowlers. Openers Jamie Shaw (37) and Luke Jones (25) would make good early contributions whilst absorbing valuable time at the wicket. At 1/75 after 26 overs, the visitors were well poised to kick on to a considerable score. When Shaw was dismissed with the score on 75, Norwood wrestled control of the contest taking four wickets for the addition of just fifteen runs and picking up some key middle order wickets. At the halfway mark, the innings was teetering on the edge at 5/113.

The experienced Chris Morrow was joined by Luke Shepherd and the pair assumed responsibil-

ity for keeping the innings moving forward. The pair would put together an excellent partnership of 81 runs, and at 5/171, the Mounters were again in the position to accelerate the innings over the closing 15 overs. Shepherd’s wicket, after scoring 27, would be closely followed by that of Sam Vanhoogstraten and it was another blip in the innings that the Mounters could ill afford.

Thankfully for the visitors, Morrow would bat deep into the innings and with the help of the tail would push the score towards a competitive total. Morrow would fall desperately close to a well deserved century, losing his wicket within the sight of stumps for an brilliant score of 91, a defining contribution in an innings that toed-and-froed between bat and ball. The Vikings would have a small victory closing the innings before bowling the allotted overs leaving the game in an interesting position with the chase set at 232.

Rhead Group 3rd XI have ridden the roller coaster this season and have worked extremely hard to maintain touch with the top four. A strong of victories was ended last week as they couldn’t go toe to toe with the top of the ladder Mooroolbark. The one saving grace is their run home which is littered with teams around them on the ladder, leaving their destiny in their own hands.

The first hurdle was a struggling Croydon Ranges team. A win that is a must should they seriously be considered finals worthy. Under the split innings format, the Ranges won the toss and gave the Mounters first opportunity to bat. After the early dismissal of Dan Meades, the Mounters looked to take ascendency of the contest. Kadyn Newport looked to continue his good recent form, and he was helped by stars on the rise, Austin Leonard and Cambell Finch. All three would make useful contributions as they would take the score to 2/59 when drinks were taken.

Unfortunately, none of the top order would push beyond the 20s and this heaped pressure on the rest of the order that they just couldn’t resist.

Regular wickets would curse the Mounters as a quick fire 31 from captain Graeme Foster the only saving grace. With Foster’s wicket within sight of the changeover, the Mounters found themselves in the unenviable position of 8/136, a handy score, but with little left in the shed for next week.

For the home side to have any chance of putting the pressure back on the visitors, they would need to capture early wickets. These were not forthcoming. The Ranges would take total domination of the contest. Not only would they not lose a wicket throughout their overs, but they would ensure their total would squeak past the Mounters total when stumps were drawn.

This leaves the Mounters with a monumental task of not only winning the game, but even extending it too far into day two. They need to somehow muster a significant amount of runs from their last two wickets, then find some wickets that were so elusive on day one. Their season hinges on finding a miracle.

Australia Day weekend saw the return of two day cricket and indicated the run home had started in full earnest for the top grades at Mt Evelyn Cricket Club. Pictured: Jesse Fraser. (Supplied)

Adam Smith (Left) and Jesse Fraser (Right) guided the 1st XI to safety on day one.

Fortunately for the Mounters, openers Adam Smith and Jesse Fraser navigated their way through some healthy shouts for LBW. Pictured: Adam Smith.