Mail - Mt Evelyn Star Mail - 11th February 2025

Funding to boost kinder inclusion, education

PAGE 2

Seeing double

Mount Lilydale Mercy College has set a new record this year, welcoming a dozen sets of twins to the school.

Coming from all over the Yarra Ranges, the 12 sets of twins, including four identical pairs, joined the over 280 students who began their secondary school journey on Thursday 30 January.

Finding their feet in a new environment, for most, has been made easier having someone by their side to experience it all with.

To read more, turn to page 6

Twelve sets of twins started Year 7 at Mount Lilydale Mercy College this year, marking a record for the school. (Stewart Chambers: 457784)

Servo green light

By Mikayla van Loon

the 41 Monbulk Road development was handed down at the end of January, after the Victorian Civil and Administrative

Tribunal (VCAT) overturned the original refusal from Yarra Ranges Council.

It will now see a service station, equipped with a dog wash and car wash, as well as a convenience store with a drive through built at the former Mt Evelyn Garden Centre site.

Opposed by both Mt Evelyn Primary School and neighbouring property owner Nic Sanders at

the tribunal hearing, they referenced the proximity to both prosperities, the noise and fume pollution, traffic increases imposing a potential risk to students, teachers and parents and the 24/7 access to the service station.

Despite this, VCAT members Alison Slattery and Phil West stated they were “satisfied that the use of the site for a service station with retail

component and ancillary services is appropriate in this location”.

Conditions on the granting of the permit were imposed relating to the 24/7 access and operating hours, fence heights and compliance approval from relevant bodies “soon after the facility starts operating.”

To read the full story, turn to page 5

NEWS Telco upgrade milestone

By Mikayla van Loon

A recently completed Kilsyth telecommunications tower has marked the halfway milestone in a state-wide mobile upgrade program.

More than 725 mobile and internet projects are now completed across the state as part of the State Government’s Connecting Victoria program.

The TPG mobile tower in Kilsyth will provide more than eight kilometres squared of improved 4G and 5G coverage to over 4350 households.

“TPG Telecom is proud to support the continued improvement of essential mobile services in the Yarra Ranges and to have reached the important halfway mark on the Connecting Victoria project,” TPG Telecom General Manager Wireless Access Networks David Yeo said.

It was just one of dozens of projects announced for the Yarra Ranges initially in 2022, with two now completed in Kilsyth and a further seven still to be delivered.

Two mobile tower projects have also been completed in Mooroolbark, with six still in progress; five towers are in progress in Montrose; 15 are yet to be completed in Mount Evelyn; four mobile towers are coming to Lilydale and two in Chirnside Park.

At the time of announcement, the government intended to build 309 new mobile towers, upgrade 492 existing towers to 5G, adapt 170 towers to be used by multiple telco providers and make 137 towers more resilient during natural disasters by 2026.

Telecommunication companies Axicom, ENE. HUB, Optus, Telstra and TPG Telecom, alongside infrastructure company Indara, were engaged to

A Kilsyth mobile tower marked the halfway completion milestone for the Connecting Victoria program. (File: 441243)

deliver the projects.

“Through partnerships with government, mobile network operators, and local councils, we’re thrilled to accelerate a digitised future for Victorian communities by delivering the critical infrastructure across the state,” Indara interim chief

executive officer Michael Ferguson said.

In 2022, Dr Peter Brennan, who has advocated for telecommunications resilience in the area and previously worked with Connecting Victoria to identify mobile black spots, told Star Mail the announced mobile towers would help alleviate issues plaguing the area.

“It’s a triad of approaches, there are three things that need to be done and thought about, they are in a sense connected necessities: our telecommunications, internet/NBN and the stability of the electricity supply,” he said.

“This is a big step forward for telecommunications coverage; it may not be 100 per cent coverage but let’s hope it will get a lot better.”

At the time, loss of power to mobile base stations and pre-existing mobile black spots were highlighted as two key vulnerabilities during the 2019-2020 bushfires in an independent review, while the June 2021 storm weather event created the largest power outage in Victorian history, with 3000 people in the Dandenong Ranges losing power for three weeks according to a report by Emergency Management Victoria.

Since then, the Yarra Ranges has experienced further storms and outages, the most severe being 13 February 2024.

At the peak of the power outage across the state, 530,000 homes and businesses were without power and over 250,000 of those were AusNet customers.

Two days after the brunt of the storm, telecommunications towers were still down, leaving people frustrated and without access to phone or internet.

Premier Jacinta Allan said at the time it was reasonable to question if telcos should have more

batteries and generators around towers as backup power sources for severe weather events.

“The reality is everyone relies on their mobile phone. Very few people have a landline,” the premier said.

“This has really emerged strongly out of this event this week as something that needs much greater focus and attention at both levels of government, but also the telecommunications companies have to come to the table with solutions.”

Following the February storm Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino started a petition calling on telcos to Power the Towers, as well on the Federal Government to mandate uninterrupted power supply through legislation.

“From a State Government perspective we are doing what we can, but telecommunications is ultimately a federally-regulated commercial industry,” Ms De Martino said in a column supplied to Star Mail.

“While government intervention is crucial, Victorian taxpayers can’t continue to plug the holes where others won’t step up.

“Ensuring telecommunications resilience is the responsibility of telecommunications companies.”

The over $500 million Connecting Victoria program was designed to reduce connectivity gaps across the state, with the remaining half of the projects to be delivered over the next two years.

“Communities across Victoria need reliable coverage to stay connected with family, work and study – that’s why we’ve completed over 725 mobile and internet projects across the state, with hundreds more on the way,” government services minister Natalie Hutchins said.

Building Blocks’ grants to bolster Yarra Ranges kinders

By Callum Ludwig and Mikayla van Loon

A range of kinders and preschools in the Yarra Ranges are set for upgrades through the latest round of the Victorian Government’s Building Blocks Grants programs.

Both Yarra Ranges Kindergartens (YRK), the umbrella group which runs 22 kinders and preschools, and Cire Children’s Services in Mount Evelyn and Chirnside Park were among the recipients.

With the grants focused on improving inclusion in early education this year, grants were available to help fund projects in the buildings and playgrounds as well for equipment.

YRK interim chief executive officer Juliette Hammond said they are thrilled to have received funding through the Building Block Inclusions Grants.

“They will make a huge impact, supporting exciting upgrades and the provision of specialist equipment, such as sensory toys at several of our Kindergartens,” she said.

“These grants will enable us to ensure every child, regardless of their abilities, background or learning style has equal access to learning opportunities and will create more enriching learning environments.”

“Two of our Kinders, Warburton and Woori Yallock, received major grant funding which will drive much-needed improvements to their outdoor play areas, the upgrades will enhance our beautiful natural environments helping to transform them into more engaging spaces where children can explore, learn, and connect with nature.”

A spokesperson from Cire said the grants, both in the realm of $10,000, would go towards sensory processing tools, gross motor equipment, outdoor dramatic play equipment and social play equipment, designed to address the unique sensory, developmental, and social needs of the children and support “each student to self regulate, feel safe and enabled to learn”.

“These grants support facilities like Cire Early Learning to meet the ever-changing needs of our diverse cohort,” they said.

“There are always new evidence-based innovations recommended by allied health professionals to elevate our service, and this grant provides the means for us to deliver the most up-to-date equipment for our children.”

The spokesperson said Cire would continue to engage with allied health professionals to en-

sure children and families receive the best support, alongside the best equipment to make that possible.

“By consulting with allied health professionals such as occupational therapists, we learn how to enhance the learning experiences of children with ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, children who have experienced trauma, developmental delays, speech and hearing challenges, and more,” they said.

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to put this knowledge into practice and provide an inclusive environment where a child can thrive regardless of their sensory or developmental challenges.”

On the larger scale, YRK’s Warburton Kindergarten received $174,630 to upgrade and enhance the outdoor learning space, including a natural climbing fort, a cubby house, bike track and yarning circle.

$167,689 for the Woori Yallock Kindergarten will see upgrades to the swing, fort, and slide areas, and the indigenous gardens, promoting

cultural awareness and sustainability.

Ms Hammond said they will both be ecoconscious, all-inclusive, sun-smart outdoor spaces that encourage children of all abilities to engage in active, nature-based play.

“These upgrades aren’t just about new equipment—they’re about creating outdoor environments that support a healthy, active lifestyle, teach important environmental lessons, and provide spaces where all children can connect, learn, and grow,” she said.

“These grants provide the critical boost needed to fast-track improvements, without this funding, many of these projects wouldn’t be possible—or would take significantly longer to bring to life.”

For equipment:

• Fernhill Preschool in Mt Evelyn will receive $5866,

• Upwey South Preschool will receive $8909,

• Upwey Preschool will receive $9224

• Lancaster Preschool in Mooroolbark will re-

ceive $5986,

• Belgrave Preschool will receive $8293

• Sassafras Preschool will receive $3750

Ms Hammond said these improvements will benefit everyone in the YRK community.

More than 400 early childhood education services shared in $9 million worth of grants through the 2024-25 Building Blocks Inclusion Grants program.

Ms Hammond said the early years lays the foundation for a lifetime of learning.

“If we can create safe, stimulating spaces it encourages children to explore, take risks, build relationships, and develop confidence—skills that will serve them well into the future. Brand new, modern ‘fancy’ facilities don’t necessarily change learning outcomes for children, but environments that are inviting, warm, interesting and inclusive do,” she said.

“Physical environments which are inclusive, and trauma-informed create the sense of safety and belonging which children need to make connections with others, connections which really can change their lives, we want to ensure children have access to spaces and equipment that help them feel included and to engage in learning, build positive self-esteem and develop strong social connections,”

“We are incredibly grateful for this support, which allows us to continue enhancing our kindergartens. A huge thank you to our Parent Support Committees, staff, and advocates at all our Kinders but especially Warburton and Woori Yallock for their dedication in securing this funding. Your hard work ensures that our kinders continue to be places of joy, discovery, and growth.”

Grants of up to $200,000 were available for building and playground projects while grants of up to $10,000 were available for equipment which could include items like mobility tools, adjustable furniture and sensory equipment.

Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn said every child deserves to actively participate at kindergarten, no matter their ability.

“These grants will make sure kinders have the inclusive facilities and equipment they need to support all children to grow, learn and play,” she said.

“We’re supporting the diverse needs of Victoria’s children by making hundreds of kindergartens safer, more engaging and inclusive, so all children can grow and thrive from the best start in life.”

Cire Early Learning centre in Mount Evelyn was one of the grant recipients in the Building Blocks Grants program. (Stewart Chambers: 458139)

Drunken sailor claim

A Kilsyth boater helped bring the tally of vessel operators caught flouting the law at Lake Eildon to 14 after being allegedly drunk.

The 38-year-old skipper had several passengers on board a 3.5 metre tinny when he was intercepted by the Water Police Squad about 5pm on Friday 31 January.

He returned a positive on a preliminary breath test and allegedly blew 0.134 during an evidentiary breath test.

The Kilsyth man had his marine licence immediately suspended for six months and was fined $840.

“As the warm weather continues, we want safety to be front and centre in everyone’s minds,” Water Police Acting Senior Sergeant Dave McHenry said.

“If you’re planning to drink, don’t get behind

the wheel. We all know how devastating the consequences can be.”

The squad – which regularly patrols the popular waterway throughout summer – conducted more than 60 vessel inspections, licence checks and breath tests during last weekend’s deployment.

Eight further boaties were issued with infringement notices for operating a boat without a licence, failing to carry a lifejacket (x4), towing a skier without an observer (x2) and failing to maintain safety gear.

“Lifejackets also remain an issue. They are mandatory for jet ski riders, children under 12, solo boaties and in small boats up to and including 4.8m, yet we still see people without them,” Acting Snr Sgt McHenry said.

Water Police also had jet skis closely in their

sights.

Four riders were caught allegedly speeding too close to shore or other vessels, while another was fined $988 for riding unlicensed.

The Water Police Squad will continue to have a highly visible presence at inland waterways this summer.

Several planned operations will take place across Victoria, on top of regular patrols.

Boat and jet ski operators can expect to be breath tested, and have vessels inspected for mandatory safety equipment including lifejackets.

“Police will continue to conduct random breath tests, vessel inspections and licence checks to ensure everyone is playing their part this summer.”

IN BRIEF

Donuts go wrong

A probationary driver from Lilydale has been caught upside down after rolling his vehicle.

The 21-year-old man lost control of his four wheel drive after allegedly doing ‘circle work’ in grassland at the corner of Alfred Road and Old Gippsland Road, Lilydale at about 9pm on Thursday 6 February.

Police members from Yarra Ranges and Knox Highway Patrols attended and conducted a preliminary breath test in which he returned an alleged reading of 0.152.

He will be charged on summons with a number of traffic offences and will face the Ringwood Magistrates Court.

Police will continue to target deliberately dangerous and high-risk road users who engage in dangerous driving behaviours.

Any person who witnessed the driving is urged to contact Knox Highway Patrol on 9881 7000.

Suspicious Silvan truck fire

Police are investigating a suspicious truck fire in Silvan on 7 February.

Emergency services were called to reports of a fire at a Parker Road business property about 12.30am.

Officers discovered a truck had been significantly damaged by fire and the windows of a second truck had been smashed.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said investigators believe that offenders also damaged a gate on the property.

“There were no reported injuries,” they said.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dash cam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contactCrimeStopperson1800333000orsubmit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Urgent warning

Victoria Police is issuing an urgent warning to motorists following a horror start to the year on the state’s roads, with a significant rise in road trauma in regional areas.

There have been 38 lives lost in the first 37 days of the year – a 35 per cent increase on 28 lives lost recorded at the same time last year. It is also significantly higher than the five-year average of 27 for the same period.

Road Policing Assistant Commissioner, Glenn Weir said police were appalled at the terrible loss of life in January – the increase in regional fatalities is of particular concern to them.

“Last year we saw a significant rise in road trauma involving motorcyclists, and worryingly that trend has continued into this year,” he said.

“Early indications suggest driver behaviour and driver error is largely contributing to these fatalities. Many people are quick to blame road conditions and other factors, but the simple fact is many of the deaths are occurring close to where people live on roads known to them,.”

A 21-year-old rolled his vehicle after doing donuts in grassland in Lilydale. (Victoria Police)

Victoria’s Water Police Squad will continue conducting inspections at popular holiday spots throughout summer. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett)

Healthcare barriers target

By Mikayla van Loon

Community health organisation EACH has been chosen to deliver the State Government’s newest initiative to provide better health outcomes for women.

Announcing a free virtual women’s health clinic on Wednesday 5 February, the telehealth and online clinic will offer more access to services like endometriosis and pelvic pain care, menstrual health, cervical screening, menopause care, breast health care and abortion.

EACH chief executive officer Natalie Sullivan said the organisation was thrilled to establish the first statewide service of this kind.

“We’ve seen many barriers that restrict women, girls and gender-diverse people from getting the health care they need: geography, cost, caring responsibilities, and cultural stigma or shame,” she said.

“This virtual clinic addresses this gender health gap by providing free, remote, culturallysafe care.”

Expected to launch by the middle of the year, specialists will be able to provide free, expert medical advice, treatment and care for a range of women’s health needs.

“Our clinical team is made up of specialist nurses, GPs, and allied health professionals — who all have extensive experience working in women’s health and sexual health, and providing care for people in our community who are more at risk of poorer health outcomes,” Ms Sullivan said.

The aim of the virtual clinic is to reduce barriers to care, especially for women in regional and remote Victoria where access to services like contraception and abortion is hard due to distance from major towns.

Ms Sullivan said dedicated women’s health services locally or virtually have an incredible impact on changing the trajectory of someone’s life.

“Our clinical team sees first-hand through our

Endometriosis and Pain Clinic how life changing these services are for women and the impact it has on not only their health, but all aspects of their lives,” she said.

The clinic will be able to provide an initial health assessment and some treatment. Some patients may also be connected to a GP or be re-

ferred to a relevant health practitioner as close to home as possible.

Triaging of initial needs will also enable the clinic to make further referrals for mental health and wellbeing, alcohol and other drugs, and family violence community support services.

“We’re excited to be leading this important initiative and look forward to helping more Victorians through the virtual clinic,” Ms Sullivan said.

The initiative has been welcomed and commended by leading Monash University Professor Danielle Mazza AM, chief investigator and director of the SPHERE Centre and member of the national and Victorian Women’s Health Advisory Council.

“I applaud the government’s commitment to improving access for Victorian women to essential women’s health services,” she said.

“The addition of an online clinical service dedicated to women’s health, together with the mobile clinic already funded and underway, provides even more avenues for women to receive care, navigation advice and referral into existing and new services.”

This newest service announcement comes after the Labor Government’s landmark women’s pain inquiry which has been followed by a suite of measures aiming to close the gap in health access for women.

It includes the Mobile Women’s Health Clinic van operated by BreastScreen Victoria which has begun hitting the road making free healthcare more accessible for all women and girls in rural and regional parts of Victoria.

Both the mobile and virtual clinics are part of the $153 million women’s health package transforming the way women’s healthcare is delivered in Victoria.

“We know the gender health gap is real, especially for women living in regional or remote areas of Victoria – that is why we’re establishing this virtual women’s clinic to help breakdown the barriers to care,” health minister Mary-Anne Thomas said.

“Abortion care is healthcare, and while we have already made abortion more accessible, we know there is more to do – because Victorian women deserve to have a choice, no matter where they live.”

EACH Community Health Service’s specialised nurses and practitioners will deliver the free virtual consultations. (Stewart Chambers: 458142)

NEWS Servo decision

By Mikayla van Loon

“Disappointed but not unexpected” was how the main objector to a service station proposal for Mount Evelyn described a recent state tribunal decision to approve the build.

The plans for 41 Monbulk Road were refused by Yarra Ranges councillors in March last year but were overturned by Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) members Alison Slattery and Phil West on 29 January.

It will now see a service station, including car wash, dog wash, and convenience shop with drive through built at the former garden centre site, with conditions placed on the permit to be fulfilled by landowner Peregrine Corporation.

Monbulk Road resident Nic Sanders, who led the 194 objectors and community petition last year and was a key respondent in the VCAT hearing, opposed the application because of the proximity to Mount Evelyn Primary School and the 24/7 operating hours of the servo.

“The community does not want this servo at this location next to our primary school on Monbulk Road,” he told Star Mail in March 2024.

Mr Sanders’ objection was founded in the possible health risks to students from petrol vapour, the increased traffic and therefore, risk to students, parents and teachers at peak times, the noise and site impacts on other properties, including his own.

Mount Evelyn Primary School assistant principal Helen Basham also raised similar concerns in her submission to VCAT.

Most notably the location of the school’s sensory play area which would line the boundary of the fuel bowsers.

“Having a petrol station right next to the school will be unsightly and ruin the natural look of the space too. It will generate increased noise on a daily basis and will totally change the feel and usage of the outdoor learning/nature play space we have developed for our students,” she said in her submission.

“Car washing, door slamming, delivery trucks, moving vehicles, cars and trucks being started, noise from the car wash – vacuuming and hosing cars, dogs barking at the dog wash and increasing in lighting will all create constant distractions.

“It will compromise student learning in the outdoor learning space, the classrooms beside the space and students using the space during play times and at other times throughout the day.”

Ms Slattery and Mr West said in the report that “the proposal must meet the requirements of the Environment Protection Regulations” which the applicant has said would occur through the installation of a 2.6 metre high noise barrier, with other barriers of different heights on adjacent boundaries.

“The permit conditions require that the noise levels from the proposed facility be measured for compliance with the requirements of the EP Regulations, soon after the facility starts operating.”

In terms of the environmental and health impacts of a petrol station being in such close range to a school, the EPA itself “had no objection to the proposed service station development and did not request specific conditions regarding air emissions in a planning permit”.

Given the intent of the applicant to install vapour recovery equipment, despite not being a requirement in Victoria, Ms Slattery and Mr West were “satisfied” the “service station will not result in air emissions or odours that are at a level contrary to the requirements” in regulations.

Ms Basham also raised concerns about the increased traffic movement in an already congested and “chaotic” area, especially at school pick-up and drop-off time, with students walking past the service station.

The report noted several investigations of the traffic movements around 41 Monbulk Road, prepared by both Traffix Group for the applicant and SALT traffic engineer Jarrod Wicks on behalf of Mr Sanders.

It was also identified that “The Department of Transport indicated that it had no objection to the approval of the service station subject to the construction of left and right turn lanes into the site from Monbulk Road, approval of a temporary bus stop during the construction of the turning lanes on Monbulk Road, and the Department’s approval of the final design plans for

the site and approaches to the site”.

According to a Traffix Group’s analysis of the “evening peak” between 4pm and 5pm, 957 vehicles were seen on Monbulk Road. Their estimated number of vehicles using the service station was 140, equating to 70 vehicles in and 70 vehicles out.

“Traffix Group concluded that the operation of the service station will not have a detrimental impact on the operation Monbulk Road,” the report reads.

Ms Slattery and Mr West also looked at the matter of what was allowed under the Industrial 3 Zone, which also contained a bushfire management and environmental significance overlay.

Yarra Ranges Council submitted that “proposed use does not strike an appropriate balance” between the residential and the school.

The VCAT members were “satisfied that the use of the site for a service station with retail component and ancillary services is appropriate in this location”.

In granting the permit, Ms Slattery and Mr West imposed conditions that plans must include the location of a 10,000 litre static water tank and a 5000 litre rainwater tank; noise barriers; a minimum of 85 per cent indigenous plant species in the plan schedule; a minimum two canopy trees; and signage must be clearly visible “directing patrons to consider neighbours and leave the premises as quietly as possible”.

While the petrol station, control building, convenience shop, automatic car wash, and dog wash may operate 24 hours, seven days a week, time restraints have been placed on certain aspects.

The drive through can operate between 6am and 10pm, Monday to Sunday; the manual car wash 7am to 6pm, Monday to Sunday; vacuums 7am to 6pm, Monday to Sunday; waste collection 7am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday; and fuel deliveries 7am to 7pm, Monday to Sunday.

Conceding the decision, Mr Sanders said he would now prepare for the impacts of the service station at his property.

“That’s it now, we start organising our property to reduce any noise and sight views over the fence,” he said.

The former Mt Evelyn Garden and Produce site will be transformed into service station after VCAT approved the proposal. (Stewart Chambers: 458138)

Double take: twins’ record

By Mikayla van Loon

Seeing double at Mount Lilydale Mercy College

will be a common occurrence for the next six years with the largest cohort of twins to attend the school in its history beginning their secondary journey in 2025.

The 12 sets of twins started Year 7 on Thursday 30 January alongside 262 classmates, with four identical sets among them.

It makes nearly 10 per cent of this Year 7 cohort a twin.

They joined MLMC from eight different primary schools from across the Yarra Ranges,

including Wonga Park Primary, St Peter Julian Eymard Mooroolbark, St Brigid’s Healesville, St Richard’s Kilsyth, Healesville Primary, Kinglake Primary, St Mary’s Mount Evelyn and The Basin Primary.

Already enjoying and settling into secondary school life, the students said it was nice having a ‘built in friend’ in their twin while navigating the new environment.

“I think it’s better to have someone, because if you need someone, then you have someone.”

Being a twin, the students said, often comes with a lot of questions about what that actually means.

“Who’s older?” and “can you read each other’s minds?” were the first two most common questions asked of them, followed by the boy, girl twins being asked if they are identical.

For identical twins Blair and Quinn, they said they will answer to each other’s names.

Some noted a competitive streak among themselves, others not so much but universal excitement for both food tech and PE classes could be seen among all 24.

To keep things easier for teachers but mostly for “their individual growth” each pair has been

separated among the 11 Year 7 homerooms. Year 7 level leader Rachel Berka said everyone so far has seemed really comfortable and well adjusted.

“We’re one week in today (6 February) and they’ve made a really good start. The year level seems to be settling in and it definitely helps when they’ve got a sibling to make that transition a bit smoother,” she said.

The graduating class of 2030 will spend their second week at the college getting to know each other better when they attend their first school camp in Alexandra.

Twelve sets of twins started their Year 7 journey at Mount Lilydale Mercy College in 2025. (Stewart Chambers: 457784) Identical twins Blair and Quinn are just two of eight attending the school. (457784)

There’ll be lots of seeing double in the halls of Mount Lilydale for the next six years with four sets of identical twins. (457784)

Billions to save species

By Callum Ludwig

A new study from Griffith University’s Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, with WWFAustralia and the University of Queensland, has estimated that preventing the extinction of 99 of Australia’s 110 priority species would cost $15.6 billion per year for 30 years.

The Australian Government has a commitment to reverse the decline of the 110 animals on the priority species list, including the Leadbeater’s Possum found in the Yarra Ranges, but researchers are calling for ‘increased funding to combat threats such as habitat destruction, invasive species and climate change.’

Lead author Dr Michelle Ward said while the annual $15.6 billion could prevent the imminent extinction of many threatened species, there were some species, including many frogs, which were found to be non-recoverable, largely due to climate change.

“Species such as Mountain-top Nursery Frog and Swan Galaxias were found to be of real concern and need active ex-situ conservation,” Dr Ward said.

“The cost to reverse the decline of priority species and undo damage done by habitat loss, disease and other threats was estimated at $103.7 billion annually, while getting them off the threatened list entirely would require $157.7 billion per year.”

Australia’s conservation record is poor with over 100 endemic (native and restricted to a certain place or ecosystem) species having gone extinct in the past three centuries.

Dr Romola Stewart, a co-author and WWFAustralia’s Head of Evaluation and Science, said the paper highlighted the true cost of ineffective nature laws and inadequate species funding.

“Australia’s ever-growing list of threatened species is a direct result of decades of underspending,” she said.

“Turning this tragedy around will take a dramatic increase in action and investment. This is achievable for a wealthy nation like Australia,”

“If we fail to put our wildlife and wild places on a path to recovery, our economy and environment will suffer, and we will see more species silently slide towards extinction.”

While the expenditure is large, the cost of saving these species could be further justified through broader benefits of conservation investment, with the study suggesting that there would be ‘co-benefits to 43 per cent of all other threatened species and improved ecosystem services essential for human wellbeing.’

Dr Ward said the natural world is undergoing profound change.

“Biodiversity loss and ecosystems collapse is ranked by the World Economic Forum as the second most significant global risk over the next decade, with 50 per cent of the global economy dependent on nature,” she said.

“There is merit in the Australian Government’s commitment, but urgent action is needed.”

As well as the Leadbeater’s Possum, the Eltham Copper Butterfly and Growling Grass Frog which can be found in the Yarra Ranges are on the priority species list.

President of the Friends of the Leadbeater’s Possum group Steve Meacher said this paper, coming alongside the Prime Minister’s announcement that he is dropping the Nature Positive laws, highlights the bipartisan political neglect of the environment that we have suffered for far too long.

“The Commonwealth boasts a policy of Zero Extinctions but has currently committed less than one-thousandth (0.08 per cent) of the amount required to halt the extinction of priority species,” he said.

“$15.6 billion per year may sound like a lot of money but is actually close to the amount currently being given to subsidise fossil fuel industries that are only making the environmental crisis worse,”

“It should also be considered alongside such commitments as the AUKUS agreement and the Stage 3 Tax cuts. The paper states that the cost of halting extinction is one per cent of GDP, Australian households spend around 2.2 per cent on alcohol.”

The Leadbeater’s Possum is one of the 110 priority species in Australia. (Zoos Victoria)

The study ‘The estimated cost of preventing extinction and progressing recovery for Australia’s priority threatened species’ has been published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).

Mr Meacher said the paper reports that habitat restoration was the key action required by most priority species.

“One of the most cost-effective actions that could be taken in the immediate future would be to create a new national park covering the forests of the Central Highlands, this would restore and protect habitat for Leadbeater’s Possum and many other species that share the tall wet forests,”

“It would also protect the source of Melbourne’s drinking water and provide sequestration of carbon, our forests being the most carbon-dense on the planet and it would ensure that the forests persist for the recreation and enjoyment of future generations.”

The Australian and Victorian Governments partnered up to announce a ‘National recovery plan for Leadbeater’s possum’ which came into effect in March 2024. A ‘National Recovery Plan for the Southern Bell Frog’ (Growling Grass Frog) was implemented in 2012 and there is no specific national recovery plan for the Eltham Copper Butterfly.

Federal Minister for the Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek said Labor is investing more in the environment than any government in Australian history.

“This includes projects like restoring koala habitat, tackling invasive pests including yellow crazy ants and feral cats, and supporting local groups doing work on the ground to care for native plants and animals. But that’s not the only thing we are doing to protect nature,” she said.

“We’ve protected an extra 70 million hectares of Australia’s ocean and bush – an area bigger than Germany and Italy combined, we’ve doubled funding for national parks, we’ve rescued the Murray Darling Basin Plan, and we’ve approved enough renewable energy to power more than 8 million homes, just to name a few.”

The Queensland Fruit Fly lifecycle generally takes 28 days to complete (longer in cooler conditions and shorter when it is warmer).

QFF females prefer to lay eggs in newly ripening fruit, just when fruit starts to change from small, hard & green to large, soft & colourful.

THE QFF LIFECYCLE & management techniques

QFF is best managed using an integrated pest management (IPM) approach based on where weaknesses in the QFF lifecycle exist.

Pheromone traps can catch male QFF before they mate. Protein traps target female QFF before they are ready to lay eggs. Food based bait droplets on leaves are sought after by hungry QFF. Exclusion netting stops female QFF reaching fruit to lay eggs. Harvesting fruit stops QFF larvae reaching the soil or organic matter on the ground where they pupate (change from a larvae to a fly). Removing unmanaged fruit hosts prevents any QFF risk at all!

NEWS Artificial hollows for owls

By Tanya Steele

An environmental group in Knox is seeing glimmers of possibility for the future of an iconic bird species as artificial hollows created to attract powerful owls begin to see other local fauna visit the human created habitats for the first time.

Custom designed for Victoria’s apex predator the Powerful Owl, the 3D-printed bird hollows have recently had several curious visitors investigating the newly installed spaces – much to the joy of citizen scientists in the area.

Friends of Koolunga Native Reserve President Rown Jennion said it’s been exciting to see and the group’s social media page has been logging the appearance of several species checking out the hollows since they were installed in August of 2024.

“We’re excited to see and share that native wildlife are interested,” he said.

“They’re showing that they’re keen on hollows, that they’re looking for hollows.”

Part of the process for the artificial hollows to be naturalized Mr Jennion said the hollows start to look and smell more natural once the different species go in and check them out.

Researcher in urban ecology and conservation science at Melbourne University Doctor Kylie Soanes said that the 3D hollow was a collaboration between designers and scientists

“My job is all about finding ways that we can make cities better places for nature and native wildlife, so trying to cram as much biodiversity into our city spaces as possible, because it’s great for biodiversity and it’s great for people as well,” she said.

“Obviously, there are heaps of challenges to native wildlife surviving in cities, and one really big one is the lack of homes, the lack of tree hollows that so many of our native species depend on.”

For a bird like the Powerful Owl, creating an artificial hollow is not a simple exercise and Dr

Soanes said that designing a nest box that was large enough to can fit safely into a tree without damaging it or posing a risk to people was really tricky.

“At one point, people were just recycling wheelie bins and cutting a hole in them and hoping that maybe owls would go into them,” she said.

Dr Soanes said that at the University of Melbourne, she was able to work with architects and designers who are part of the deep Design Lab there to brainstorm a potential solution.

Powerful owls need a large but particular kind

of space to be able to safely get in and out of and to allow for owlets to climb out and emerge - creating a challenge for the team.

Dr Soanes said that with the help of PhD student Dr Dan Parker who came up with the design of the hollow, the team were able to then print the habitats that now reside in Koolunga and other locations across Melbourne.

“What’s so exciting to me, I could never have imagined structures like this being built with all of those fantastic shapes that fit directly into the tree,” she said.

“It’s got a little shelf because, for a powerful owl, it’s not as simple as flying neatly into a hole that’s in a tree – they sort of have to land on it to be able to climb inside.”

The University of Melbourne also has a hollow installed on site which Dr Soanes said has been visited by ringtail possums and what they think are possibly Rainbow lorikeets who are now nesting in it.

In other parts of Victoria, the same concept has been used to create more lightweight artificial hollows for smaller and endangered species like possums, parrots and other mammals.

Koolunga Native Reserve has had powerful owls visit the area which is what has made the site so appealing for the project.

“Powerful owls, being a really big bird, have a huge, huge home range and they can cover incredible distances in a night,” said Dr Soanes.

“So just getting the owl and the hollow in the same place is the first hard step, which is why Koolunga is such a great site for us to test this out because we know there are owls there,” she said.

“We just need one to come and have a looksee.”

Mr Jennion said the group originally started the journey several years ago when they were doing bird surveys in their reserve.

Of about 50 different bird species, the reserve had around 25 to 30 that needed hollows to breed in.

Melba Highway landslip repair works

“So quite a large demand from our native wildlife for natural hollows,” said Mr Jennion.

“With all of the suburban development where we live, the roads, the shops, all the things that we live in and enjoy, has come at the cost of reduced habitat for our wildlife,” he said.

Ocwr time the group has installed a number of different types of bird boxes to suit different species in the area.

“We started with kookaburras and ducks because they were both species that were easy, easier for volunteers to try and support,” said Mr Jennion.

Following recommended designs for hollows from Birdlife Australia, Mr Jennion said the entrance is really important in terms of trying to attract the target species.

“But what you find is that other species will ignore that and will try and use it – some are opportunistic and try and take over,” he said.

“I designed one follow for Eastern rosellas, which have a smaller entrance and the slightly bigger Crimson rosellas shouldn’t have been able to fit in, but we had a young one that was just small enough to get in and breed and win one year.”

“So nature will choose - you need to leave it up to the animals.”

Collecting the information from visitors to the artificial hollows will pave the way for research in the future.

“It’s one thing to have a fantastic creative idea. The next step is actually testing how well it works and learning for the future,” said Dr Soanes.

Mr Jennion said his group would love to put more nesting boxes in different parts of Knox, where they have confirmed sightings of the owls.

“It is dependent on receiving grants,” he said.

As breeding season approaches the Friends of Koolunga Native Reserve will continue to monitor the large hollows in the hopes that the Powerful Owl will settle into them.

We’re completing critical landslip repairs on the Melba Highway in Dixons Creek, between Healesville-Kinglake Road and north of Hunts Lane.

Melba Highway will be closed to traffic and detours will be in place from 17 February to late March.

Labour Day long weekend

Melba Highway will open in both directions for the Labour Day long weekend from Friday 7 March until Tuesday 11 March with reduced speed limits.

Please support local businesses which remain open during works and are accessible by travelling via Yarra Glen.

Scan the QR code or find out more at transport.vic.gov.au/melbahighway

12748512-KF06-25

The Friends of Koolunga Native Reserve installed the large 3D printed hollows in August 2024 and they have since attracted a host of smaller critters in February this year. (Facebook)

Where

Echidnas keep it cool

A reminder to put water out for wildlife during the extreme heat wave Victoria is currently experiencing.

Humans can retreat to the air con but spare a thought for our native animals trying to keep cool.

The echidnas at Healesville Sanctuary are on point, splashing and slurping up water in shallow pools during the hot weather.

The spikey anteaters use their long, rubbery beaks and 18-centimetre-long tongues for sipping chilled H2O with a built-in drinking straw for a mouth.

Healesville Sanctuary mammal keeper Craig McQueen said when the echidnas are not flat-out drinking, they blow bubbles to keep cool.

“Most people aren’t aware, but they are also really great swimmers, and they use their beaks as a little snorkel,” Mr McQueen said.

“Echidnas are always curious, so whenever we introduce something new to their habitat even if it’s just water, it always spikes their interest.”

Nine Short-beaked echidnas live at Healesville Sanctuary.

They can be found on Main Track at the front entrance and along the Koala Forest/Kangaroo Country Track.

Echidnas live right across Australia.

They have no teeth, and their back feet face backwards.

Short-beaked echidnas are one of only five species of monotreme (egg-laying mammals).

Platypuses are also monotremes.

The community can help wildlife that visits their backyards and balconies during the warmer months by providing safe access to water.

Simply place a shallow plastic or ceramic (non-metal) dish of water in a shady spot close to shrubs or trees, away from pets and roads.

Create a safe place to drink by putting a rock or stick in the water for animals to climb out if they fall in.

Keep the water clean by changing it every day and more regularly on really hot days.

Healesville Sanctuary is open 365 days a year including all public holidays.

Kids under 16 visit free on weekends, Victorian Public holidays and Victorian Government school holidays.

For more information and to pre-book tickets visit zoo.org.au/healesville

Every strand counts in this year’s Greatest Shave

By Chris Tanti, CEO of the Leukaemia Foundation

The Leukaemia Foundation’s much-loved national fundraising campaign, the World’s Greatest Shave, is back for its 27th year encouraging people to shave, cut or colour their hair to raise critical funds for the 150,000 Australians living with blood cancer.

As the Leukaemia Foundation’s biggest fundraising event of the year, the call for participation in the World’s Greatest Shave has never been more urgent, with new data revealing blood cancer is on track to become Australia’s most common and deadly cancer within a decade – unless we act now.

What we know is that while the incidence of blood cancer in Australia has soared by 79 per cent in the past 20 years, in that time only 12 per cent of blood cancer research funding has been directed towards early detection and prevention of the disease – proportionally well below that of other leading cancers.

It means that while blood cancer research to date has made significant strides towards improving treatment and care options for patients and their families, unfortunately, the critical issues of prevention and early detection of the disease remain unsolved.

It might surprise readers to learn that blood cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in Australia. And yet, you cannot prevent blood cancer, nor can you screen for it or make lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of being diagnosed – it’s Australia’s silent and hidden cancer crisis.

With around 1 in 12 Australians projected to receive a blood cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, it is essential, now more than ever, that Australia invests more funding into blood

year’s World’s Greatest Shave. (File)

cancer research focused on early detection and prevention, while continuing to bolster support services for patients and their loved ones.

Everyday Australians, like you and me, can do their part by signing up to the World’s Greatest Shave to shave, cut or colour their hair to support the growing number of people living with blood cancer.

The Leukaemia Foundation has a bold goal of raising $12 million through the campaign and we cannot do it alone. Every strand of hair you change will help make a difference in the lives of Australians impacted by this disease and hopefully, one day, find a cure.

We urge the Australian community to sign up, or donate directly, to the World’s Greatest Shave today by visiting worldsgreatestshave. com or calling 1800 500 088.

CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar3 Meadowgate Drive

CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket239-241 Maroondah Highway

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

Get the clippers out for this

The echidnas at Healesville Sanctuary splash and slurp up water in shallow pools during the hot weather. (Zoos Victoria)

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Lose yourself in the fun

By Mikayla van Loon

Described by its director as a typical fun and fantastical farce, Moon Over Buffalo will open the Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre’s 2025 season.

“It sits squarely in the category of comedy. You could even describe it somewhat as the classic theatre genre called farce, which has lots of doors opening and closing, so that brings in the fast pace and slightly mad capped elements to it,” director Ian Frost said.

Set backstage of a theatre in 1953, the story follows “a couple who have been stars of the stage”, George and Charlotte Hay, who are both making a dash for Hollywood.

“There’s elements of confusion within the show, as in the cast have some convoluted and intermingled relationships,” Frost said.

“There’s Ethel, a grandma who is hard of hearing, so it brings in mistaken identity, misunderstandings and those interpersonal confusions to mean that it’s just a fantastic and light hearted and enjoyable evening at the theatre.”

Performing for the second time at Lilydale, Brett Hyland who gets to play the “charmer” George said the play “is funny from go to woe” and “it’s high energy”.

“That’s the beauty of theatre. It’s so immersive, it kind of makes you forget about your life for a while,” he said.

“You don’t have to think too hard with this one. It’s not one of those ones where it’s a complicated plot. It’s high energy, high laughs, (and a) lot of costume changes.”

Describing his character as lovable but with some flaws, Hyland said it makes him all the more comical to watch.

“He’s a very bad actor, a bit of a ham, but he has some endearing quality. He very much loves his wife, but he does have a little bit of a wandering eye, and is a little bit, I suppose, full of himself,” he said.

“He does get himself into a bit of trouble at

the start of the play, which he gets caught out for, but at the end of the day, he does love his wife.”

As for lead actress Audrey-Maeve Barker this will be just her second entry into the farce sphere, one she has enjoyed entirely.

“What attracted me to the role was the fact that it’s completely like nothing else I’ve ever done and the idea of working with Ian (Frost) and Lilydale again was fabulous,” she said.

“The play is just so much fun, and it’s really physical, which I’ve only just started that challenge now and I’m really enjoying. It’s a lot of fast paced humour, and it’s a farce, which I’ve never done, so that’s what attracted me to it.

“It’s a really great piece. It’s really funny, and there’s a lot going on, and it’s a roller coaster ride. It’s really fun. Once you’re on, we’re off.”

Barker said she hopes, but is quite confident,

the audience will love the silliness of the play and the ability to step away from life just to have a good laugh.

“You can’t think too much about it. From beginning to end, you’re on a ride, and you can’t take it too seriously,” she said.

“It’s a really great way to take a break from your life for a couple of hours and just have a great laugh, and be able to laugh at everybody up there who’s doing the most ridiculous thing, and having the most crazy reality.

“Take a step out of your own lives, take a break and get to have a good laugh.”

Creating a dynamic cast and “cohesive show”, Frost said it “means the audience can suspend disbelief” for a few hours.

But more than that, he hopes it can pay homage to the theatre, to every ounce of time and dedication from directors, set designers, set builders, costume, wardrobe and cast.

“This show really is a love story to theatre, given that it is set backstage of that theatre in 1953 we see the characters put up with and at some point, make do with the shortcomings of each other because of their shared love of theatre,” he said.

“So I think that’s been a fun thing for myself, and for the cast as well, to be demonstrating their own love of the theatre, through the script of this show.”

With the 1950s backdrop, and a few dips into the 1920s, costume designer Maria Smedes has outdone herself in hand-making or altering costumes, while the set took “countless hours” to recreate “an authentic green room”.

Every detail and moment from the eight chosen cast members to the props add to the delightful atmosphere of 1950s theatre.

The season begins on Thursday 13 February and runs until Saturday 1 March. To book tickets for the show, visit lilydaleatc.com/season-2025 or call the Box Office on 9735 1777.

Haul of awards for talented Lilydale theatre cast, crew

By Mikayla van Loon

A year of outstanding talent and remarkable ticket sales was rewarded at the Lyrebird Awards, seeing Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company (LATC) score a haul of awards.

From costumes to lighting, lead roles and supporting roles, LATC won 15 awards from 34 nominations, the most of any company, presented on Saturday 1 February.

Three of the five productions from 2024 garnered awards being Still Alice, Suite Surrender and Clue.

As LATC president but also as director of Still Alice, Alan Burrows said each of the awards was a testament to the work and dedication of all involved in the theatre but for him the recognition for Still Alice was far greater and on a different level.

“It’s a play that was very dear to my heart because my wife has dementia and Angela Glennie’s (Alice) father passed away with dementia in 2019 as well,” he said.

“So it was very, very deep and poignant for us both, and I think that came out in how we managed to do the production, and the fact that we actually had exceptional actors working with her as well, and they were all duly recognised during the show as well.

“I was also particularly pleased that our set designer, David Dare, was recognised and our lighting designer (Craig Pearcey) was also recognised, because they also were integral in portraying the story of the progression of dementia as well too.”

Because of the uniqueness of this play showing in Australia, the subject matter and the personal impact of dementia on his own life, Burrows spoke at the Awards night.

“I hope we actually, in some ways, raised awareness for the community generally, and in the end, we had done justice to people who are actually suffering from this terrible disease as well too. That was important to me,” he said.

“When I first saw it and read it in England a

number of years ago, I was just moved by what I thought was just a tremendous piece of theatre that deserved to be done in Australia.

“And nobody else has done it, and I’m not sure anybody will do it, quite frankly, because it’s a difficult play, and you need an exceptional actress to play the part as well too. Of course, we’re lucky with Angela, so I’m not sure anybody will do it again. However, I’m proud to have done it.”

Angela Glennie walked away with the award for best performer in a lead female role in a drama, Phil Lambert best supporting actor in a drama and Audrey-Maeve Barker best supporting actress in a drama.

The most popular performance of the year, selling out the second and third weeks of shows with 2900 tickets sold in total, Clue won best director in Katie-Jane Amey, best lead male performance with Ian Frost, best sound and best lighting in a comedy and a highly commended performance for Sheona Gregg.

Amey said having worked on this adaptation show once before, this time around “we took a few creative risks with set, costumes and lighting that really paid off”.

“It was heaps of fun, and a huge challenge for our team to create 11 different ‘rooms’ on our stage, plus figuring out all the different tricks and gags that have to happen in these rooms,” she said.

“The iconography is really strong and well known too, so we enjoyed playing with new ways to interpret these.”

Describing her directorial style as collaborative, cohesive and audience-focussed, Amey said she loves the entire process from “big blue sky thinking at the start” to refining the smaller details.

“As a director, you can have a clear vision for the show, and plan everything in detail from the start - but since there’s so many different contributions along the way, the end result is always surprising in the most wonderful ways, and I find great joy in that,” she said.

While grateful for this “exciting acknowledgment” of the production, Amey said what matters most and feels more tangible is audience numbers, feedback and cast and crew satisfaction - things Clue all topped the table in.

“We’re really lucky to have a strong bunch of volunteers who work towards excellent theatre, but who also believe in a company with great culture,” she said.

“Getting the right people around you is the most important part - a team of people all experts in their own areas, who set personal agendas aside. Lilydale Athenaeum is a place where people want to come and work and play – there’s a real sense of family and belonging.”

Also collecting numerous nominations, Suite Surrender saw costume designer Maria Smedes awarded, which Burrows said was entirely deserved because at the time she was costuming Clue and Little Women.

“I thought she did an outstanding job. The costumes and a couple of dresses she produced for Fiona in Suite Surrender and for Adrienne George I thought were just magnificent,” he said.

“So she’s a treasure, is our Maria, and we’re very pleased and proud to have her as part of the company.”

James Anderson also collected best performer in a supporting male role in a comedy, adding to the whole casts’ highly commended “for a cohesive ensemble with sustained energy and pacing”.

Lead actress Fiona Carter said Suite Surrender was certainly “lots of energy” but more than that, it was a well written farce about “strong friendship between two people”.

“It started off with a great script. There was so much to work with, and it was consistent all the way through,” she said.

“It built, it built, it built and then it had a lovely twist at the end, and then there was a little bit more. And it was a lovely script to work with, a lovely cast, good director, amazing costumes and a set that we could work with.

“There were doors opening, closing, all of that, all of those items and people in a cupboard. It was witty, it was clever and people were still laughing in the foyer.”

While not everyone one, Carter said it was delightful to see so many nominations of this incredible show and cast.

“So many people in our cast were nominated. Not everybody won, but lots of our cast got nominated, which is such an honor, for their recognition, for their hard work and and and each character was just being true to themselves,” she said.

With “so much talent in Melbourne”, Carter said being able to bring that to audiences in Lilydale, no matter the show, no matter the script.

“I’m so glad that we’ve got these community theatres where it’s quality theatre. We want to make something good that people will enjoy, that will make them think, make them laugh, make them cry, and it’s like you get to live somebody else’s life when you’re watching it and and as an audience, I want to be touched.”

Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company president and director Alan Burrows with the haul of Lyrebird Awards. (Supplied)

Brett Hyland and Audrey-Maeve Baker play married couple George and Charlotte Hay in Moon Over Buffalo. (Alexandra Carter, Wanderling Photography)

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Performing for inclusivity

By Dongyun Kwon

Through autobiographical performance, Roos Rijnbeek wants to not only share her life story but also let the audience think about the true meaning of inclusion and diversity.

Rijnbeek is a Dutch citizen who moved to Australia in 2022 and currently lives in Lilydale.

She is living with a disability named achondroplasia which is a genetic condition affecting a protein in the body called the fibroblast growth factor receptor.

Achondroplasia leads to shorter bones, abnormally shaped bones and shorter stature; adult height in people with achondroplasia is between 42 and 56 inches.

Although she is 128cm tall, the 25-year-old said she has a big character.

“I’ve always been this way, I’m not used to anything else, I’m still a happy person and I want to make my life as cool as I can,” she said.

“Nothing will stop me and I will always find a solution or different way to do it.

“I can do everything, and I can be anything that I want to be.”

Rijnbeek had to face obstacles and challenges throughout her life because of the disability she is living with.

She needs help from other people or a step to reach something above her height.

She has also got her car adjusted to reach out to the pedals.

Rijnbeek said the big obstacle is the way society perceives people with disabilities.

“All of those things like the adjustments that I have to do in life to go by in society are fine things for me,” she said.

“There is still a lot of discrimination going around.

“I always say ‘I’m fine with my disability but I feel like other people are not fine with it, and they need to constantly remind me of it.’”

The Dutchwoman studied theatre and education at Utrecht School of the Arts in the Netherlands.

Through what she loves, Rijnbeek found her own way to make a more inclusive and diverse society where difference is not something to be tolerated but something to be celebrated.

The 25-year-old created an autobiographical performance to tell audience about her life. Her show was already three times sold out in the Netherlands and is coming to The Memo, Healesville on 22 and 23 February.

Rijnbeek said there’ll be a Q and A session after the show as she wants to interact with the audience directly.

“Able is an autobiographical solo performance about living life in a society that’s not made for you because you are different because of your disability,” she said.

“I am short-statured but that’s just a little part of me, Roos is so much more than just that. By creating this performance, I’m opening up about that side of my life, about my disability, about my short staturedness.

“I think we need to educate people more on it and we can raise a bit more awareness around it. I hope to not only talk about myself and my own experience that people can learn from but also open up the conversation about ‘how can we make the better world for us all to live in?’, ‘how can we take that shared responsibility to help one another out?’.”

After she moved to Australia in 2022, she noticed how different Australia is compared to the Netherlands.

The 25-year-old said Australians are more welcoming and open.

“In the Netherlands, we’re constantly busy judging one another, and we’re so focused on what other people think of us and what we think of other people,” she said.

“Here in Australia, people are more focused on themselves. If there’s interaction, they want to do it for a good purpose. I felt so much more accepted here.”

Rijnbeek said she could be herself and be free in Australia.

“In the Netherlands, when I was 23 just before I moved here, I was very struggling with, almost surviving day by day, all the reactions that I got from the outside world,” she said.

“I would notice people taking pictures of me eight times a day. I would get pointed at constantly. I would get yelled at on the street.

“As soon as I arrived in Australia, all that I was carrying came off my shoulders.”

For more information regarding Rijnbeek’s show Able, please visit the following website, yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Experience/Events/ABLE

Hello Yarra Valley gardeners!

Welcome to the February 2025 Queensland fruit fly update. QFF detections have slowly increased for the season to date. However, I am pleased to report that many gardeners and fruit growers are taking the clean up and management options seriously. If we continue to stop the spread, QFF will not take hold in the Yarra Valley, and less fruit will be impacted. I am also pleased to report that in some QFF cases from last season, no further QFF have been detected this season so far. Early detection and rapid response with dedicated people doing the work makes a difference for the whole community. There will always be a QFF risk, it is how we manage our production areas that counts. We need to work together.

Tips for concerned home gardeners

Keep the fruit in your garden picked regularly. Don’t let it fall. Check your fruit during the ripening phase.

Store your harvest in the fridge. Process what you pick. Treat scraps (freeze, boil or microwave) before composting or placing in FOGO bins.

Don’t carry risk fruit from a QFF area into the Yarra Valley or into your home. Don’t share fruit if you suspect it is infested.

Exclusion netting or fine mesh nets can be placed over good fruit and sealed up to stop the fruit fly from laying eggs.

Talk to neighbours about QFF risk and check host plants near your home.

QFF Detections @ FEB 6th 2025 Yarra Valley and surrounds

Coldstream, Lilydale, Silvan, Mt Evelyn, Gruyere, Wandin North, Yarra Glen, Kinglake, Kilsyth, Bayswater, Mooroolbark, Chirnside Park, Hoddles Creek.

Suspect QFF are also being reported in Croydon, Warrandyte, Donvale, Montmorency, Park Orchards, Templestowe, and other inner Melbourne locations. New cases are in Frankston.

If you think you’ve found QFF, take a clear photograph and send to qff@agribusiness-yarravalley.com, or text 0490381999.

Freeze, boil or microwave suspect fruit. Do not compost untreated fruit. If you can’t treat fruit, please seal it In a bag, double bag it, and place in the regularly collected rubbish.

Roos Rijnbeek’s autobiographical performance Able is coming to The Memo Healesville on 22 and 23 February. (Supplied)

Through Able, Roos Rijnbeek wants to not only share her life story but also let the audience think about the true meaning of inclusion and diversity.

Valentine’s Day reflections

This Friday is Valentine’s Day, traditionally a celebration of romantic love with its origins in paganism with Christian associations.

But like other festivals it has now been relegated to filling a consumer vacuum between Christmas and Easter.

Undoubtedly, even in these times of hardship for some, there will still be the usual overspending on gifts and flowers, albeit be a last minute bunch grabbed from the servo or supermarket.

Traditionally associated with romance, roses today have become a cliched and superficial Valentine’s Day gift symbolizing the commercialization of love, stripped of genuine emotion.

Approximately 40 per cent to 50 per cent of fresh-cut flowers sold in Australia are imported, with a significant portion arriving around Valentine’s Day.

For instance, up to 10 million roses are flown into the country during this period.

And while there is nothing wrong with celebrating romantic love, be it often so fleeting, today as we face a world riven with problems should we perhaps divert our thoughts to a different kind of love: a compassionate love or Agape as the Greeks called it.

Agape is different from romantic love (eros) and familial love (storge); it focuses on love that transcends personal desires or emotions and seeks the well-being of others.

A love that goes beyond personal gain or emotional attachments, given freely without expecting anything in return and can include strangers and even enemies.

Agape can involve empathy which focuses on understanding another person’s feelings or at least acknowledges the validity of those feelings.

But this kind of approach is missing from our individualistic way of thinking.

Perhaps that is why we are now enacting laws against what is called ‘hate speech.’

While the most recent cases have targeted Jewish people we must not forget that others

WOORILLA WORDS

like Middle Eastern and African migrants and of course our own Indigenous have also been the focus of many attacks.

There is a love that gives with open hands,

Not counting what it loses, but what it gives.

It doesn’t seek to take, but simply stands—

A beacon where the soul, unchained, can live.

Agape’s Embrace author unknown

It’s of course harder to feel empathy when you are struggling with family, mortgage payments as well as high grocery, medical and utility bills.

As well the media, particularly social media, constantly highlighting crimes while politicians vie with each other to capitalise on public fears.

With an election just around the corner there are many issues we should be discussing.

Regrettably, we are not a culture that engages in weighty conversations over coffee or a pint.

Sport is allowable but anything else is viewed with suspicion.

And yet, many have found it distressing to view day in day out images from countries in turmoil and particularly seeing the suffering of children, yet feel constrained in expressing their feelings.

We see heart-wrenching pictures of the plight faced by millions of displaced individuals around the world, the loss of home, security, and a sense of belonging.

Similarly, we are troubled by laws hastily enacted in response to community fears with pos-

sible unintended consequences seemingly left unexplored or addressed.

So while we pride ourselves in living in a vibrant democracy, we forget that this requires before anything else an informed electorate and one that hopefully can look beyond narrow personal gains, engage in difficult discussions and be prepared to question our representatives.

Poetry has always been a medium for capturing the spirit of the times, and today is no different.

Poems can offer a glimpse into the complexities and realities of our world and help bridge gaps between different groups and generations.

It invites readers to step into others’ shoes, fostering empathy and understanding in an increasingly divided world.

Through poetry, we can find solace, understanding, and inspiration as we navigate the everchanging landscape of our world today.

Among the many Australian poets there has been a growing number of indigenous poets:

Ellen van Neerven, Ali Corgy Eckermann, Allison Whittaker, Charmaine Papertalk Green, Evelyn Aaluen to name a few, all prepared to speak about injustices as they see or live them.

Though not an Australian poem, lya Kaminsky’s ‘We Lived Happily during the War’ is a complex and conflicted exploration of life in America during a period in which the country was waging wars overseas.

The sentiments expressed are just as relevant to the Australian experience.

Kaminsky uses the contrast between domestic comfort and foreign suffering to reflect on feelings of guilt in living in relative peace while others suffer, suggesting that people in affluent countries can afford to ignore horrors elsewhere.

But perhaps at a cost.

We Lived Happily During the War

And when they bombed other people’s houses, we protested but not enough, we opposed them but not enough. I was in my bed, around my

bed America was falling: invisible house by invisible house by invisible house.

I took a chair outside and watched the sun. In the sixth month of a disastrous reign in the house of money in the street of money in the city of money in the country of money, our great country of money, we (forgive us) lived happily during the war.

All of what I’ve written should not blunt your romantic impulse towards a loved one.

It is just reminder that the wonderful feelings felt towards a loved one should not be orchestrated by commercial imperatives but be freely expressed at any time whether with flowers or a well chosen gift.

And nor should we forget to acknowledge the other kinds of love that enrich our lives and our society.

British poet Carole Ann Duffy, you may remember, cheekily suggested that an onion with its layers of skin and lingering scent was a far better representation of a lasting relationship than a rose.

But while for many roses will still be the symbolic gift of romantic love and undoubtedly received with great pleasure the last word goes to the inimitable Dorothy Parker

One Perfect Rose

A single flow’r he sent me, since we met. All tenderly his messenger he chose; Deep-hearted, pure, with scented dew still wet-One perfect rose.

I knew the language of the floweret; “My fragile leaves,” it said, “his heart enclose.” Love long has taken for his amulet

One perfect rose.

Why is it no one ever sent me yet

One perfect limousine, do you suppose? Ah no, it’s always just my luck to get

One perfect rose.

End of era for Yarra Glen and District History Group

By Dongyun Kwon

Yarra Glen and District History Group (YGDHG) has made a hard decision to close down the group.

YGDHG, formerly named Yarra Glen and District Historical Society Incorporated, was formed in 1973.

After over 50 years of operation, the group reached a point where the hard decision was inevitably made, as only three members remained.

“Once upon a time, people came and asked for information from us but now they use the Internet to search for information,” YGDHG president Kevin Heeley said.

“It’s difficult to get people to contribute to organisations these days.”

The group was central to local history, not only providing relevant historical data to people who had enquiries but also helping people to find their families in Yarra Glen and surrounding areas.

It also provided data and photographs to the Yarra Ranges Council (YRC) when the council hosted a history-related event or exhibition.

Longtime group member Helen Mann was instrumental in setting up a website called The Encyclopedia of Yarra Glen and District.

Its value is that it could be amended and added to over time, unlike print materials.

Another longtime group member Jill Sheffield said the group also helped YRC install storyboards around the town and along the Yarra River.

TheYarraGlenandDistrictHistoricalSociety also published books and papers, and mounted supportive exhibitions of photographs and information for the Yarra Glen RSL on Anzac Day and at special events for other organisations.

“Since 2007, we have been able to rent this room (in the Yarra Glen Memorial Hall) and that’s when we started to open this room on a Wednesday afternoon during school terms for anyone to come in who had a query,” Ms Sheffield said.

The group also printed calendars each year with different themes for a long time.

“For the 2017 edition, the theme was sports and it included photos of the racecourse and local sports clubs,’ Ms Sheffield said.

“The last edition was printed in 2019 with the theme of Yarra Glen Primary School with various historical photos of the school.”

Due to the drop in membership, the Yarra Glen Historical Society Incorporated was unable to meet the criteria keeping it as incorporated.

Right before the Covid pandemic, it became

unincorporated and changed its name to Yarra Glen History Group and became part of the Yarra Glen and District Living and Learning Centre.

The president said the group suffered from the increasing financial constraints, which also affected their decision.

“When we lease this room (in the Yarra Glen Memorial Hall) from the shire, it only costs a few hundred dollars a year, but that lease requires us to pay the contents insurance, which has soared over the last few years,” Mr Heeley said.

“You have to have a membership big enough to create enough income to be able to pay for the room and for the insurance to cover.

“There are not many ways to raise funds for historical societies. You need to run exhibitions or talks and sell things but there are not many things you can sell.”

The group has been in touch with the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum, discussing the best way to distribute their collection of artifacts, printed materials and other items they have.

Three remaining members of the Yarra Glen and District History Group, (L-R): Jill Sheffield, Kevin Heeley and Helen Mann. (Dongyun Kwon: 458218)

60 years of historical body

By Ray Peace

Knox

Historical

Society is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2025.

Current president, Ray Peace, who has been a member for twenty of those years, said the society started because local residents realised how much of their local history was being lost.

“Howard McComb, member of a long-standing local family, first came up with the idea,” Ray said.

“He started collecting as much of the area’s history as could.”

Howard gave a speech to the Bayswater Progress Association on 16 April 1964 at the old Bayswater Progress Hall, on Station Street, on the subject of early public maps of the district.

The upshot was a public meeting on 14 May 1965 at the same venue to form a Shire of Knox Historical Society.

CARTOON

The Society collected material related to the heritage of the municipality of Knox, including the former Shire of Ferntree Gully, the Shire of Berwick, and local Indigenous history.

Early meetings were held in members’ houses for years.

A public campaign was mounted in 1966 to save Millers homestead, which was acquired by the City of Knox in 1971.

The society started its own newsletter in 1969.

Early KHS members included Tony Scollary, Graham Hansen, and Chris Boddy.

“Graham has since retired, but Chris is still an active member,” Ray said.

“They did an incredible job. Without them, much of the early history of Knox would have been lost.”

The society moved to ‘Ambleside’ homestead, gifted to the City of Knox in 1975 following the

death of Oliver David, in 1977.

Still at the same location almost fifty years later, the homestead and museum now receives over one thousand visitors a year, including tour groups, hundreds of school children, and residents of local retirement homes.

KHS members will be attending a formal sixtieth anniversary function later in the year.

‘Ambleside’ homestead and museum, at 3 Olivebank Road, Ferntree Gully, is open to the public between 10am and 1pm on Thursday and Friday, and between 1pm and 4pm on Sunday.

For details, phone: 9758 6722 or email: khs@ relics.com

Wally Tew, mayor of the City of Knox, at the opening of ‘Ambleside’ museum in 1977. (Supplied)

Fast-paced, action-packed

Book review of Traitor’s Gate by Jeffrey Archer Traitor’s Gate is the sixth book in the William Warwick series by renowned English novelist Jeffrey Archer.

Initially, this reviewer found it difficult to delve into the story due to a lack of knowledge of the heroes and villains in the previous titles.

It felt like sitting down to watch a movie when it is already halfway through.

Yet, the story quickly proves its worth as a meticulously researched and skilfully executed showpiece.

The complex and formidable procedures in which the Crown Jewels are transferred between the Tower of London and Parliament are well explained.

It helps to explain the great lengths that master criminal Miles Faulkner goes to in his determination to revenge against Chief Superintendent Warwick and his team.

Faulkner is as intimidating a character as his lawyer Booth Watson is slithery and slimy.

It makes Faulkner’s ex-wife Christina a bit stereotypically shallow in comparison.

Indeed, assuming all the relevant characters are already well developed in the previous titles, there is very little illustration of their personalities and characteristics in the book.

In contrast, Warwick’s children Peter and Artemisia stand out with their little school project, which fits in the grand scheme of things in the story flawlessly.

Hour, the “immediate period post-offence when arrest and forensic opportunities are at their maximum” according to the We Are London website.

The author effortlessly presents everything that happens at once, leaping from one character to the next with just enough probing to reveal their perspectives while maintaining the breathless pacing. Especially near the end of the book, it feels more like watching a thrilling movie than reading a book.

Itallmakesthisreviewerwanttoreadthewhole William Warwick series from the start and even to explore the author’s other books.

This is perhaps the best result any story can achieve.

With that said, it is interesting that Traitor’s Gate, published in September 2023, is set in 1997 when Tony Blair was elected Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

The Round Theatre

Todd McKenney – New Show Announced

After the first show sold out in record time, The Round is excited to announce a second show for Todd McKenney at The Round.

Peter and Me is a high-energy tribute to Todd’s idol Peter Allen.

Local entertainment news Kemp’s curtain call

This fun-filled musical journey features Allen’s greatest hits, from I Go To Rio to Tenterfield Saddler.

Button up your Hawaiian shirt for some fabulously fun nostalgia.

Season: Saturday 3 May at 7.30pm.

Underground Cabaret

The Round 2025 Underground Cabaret Season is set to dazzle when The Round Studio transforms into a decadent speakeasy.

Drew Downing and Band will get the party stared with rock and roll hits, jazz standards and 90s bangers.

Season: Friday 14 March at 8pm.

The Music Man – Nova Theatre

The hit revival of The Music Man was a Broadway smash.

Now hit is coming to The Round.

With eight shows to choose from; there’s a time to suit every musical lover.

Season opens Friday 21 March at 7.30pm.

Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre

Moon Over Buffalo

Fast paced with an abundance of mishaps Moon Over Buffalo will prove to be as delightfully funny as Suite Surrender.

With gorgeous 1950s gowns, this screwball comedy is in the old tradition of farces… set in 1953 Buffalo NY – definitely OFF OFF BROAD-

WAY- where two mature -aged actors, who are married to each other have one last chance to make it big big in Hollywood if only their play goes off well in front of Hollywood Mega Director, Frank Capra…

Get a good belly laugh with slamming doors, aplenty, backstage shenanigans and larger than life personalities that inhabit the world of theatre.

Season opens on 13 March.

Bookings: lilydaleatc.com or 88736 1777 on Mondays, Tuesdays or Fridays.

Eltham Little Theatre

Diary of Anne Frank

January 27th marked the 80th anniversary of the Auschwitz liberation.

The over-riding sentiment was simply never, ever again.

Sadly, such horrors have reoccurred.

We can change this.

Let us heed the words of those who suffered for simply being different and ensure these atrocities never happen again.

“I still believe, in spite of everything, that people are really good at heart.” Anne Frank.

Season: 21 February – 8 March.

Jojo, daughter of Warwick’s best mate Inspector Ross Hogan, also helps to explain Hogan’s personal circumstances.

Particularly outstanding is the depiction of the numerous happenings throughout the Golden

Does this mean there will be many more books forthcoming to chronicle Warwick’s brilliant career, even after An Eye for an Eye, the latest in the series?

This reviewer certainly hopes so.

Joker 2 is a better musical

Emilia Perez

Starring Karla Sofía Gascón, Zoe Saldaña and Selena Gomez

Rated MA15+

2.75/5

Emilia Perez is a dull, flat musical that has garnered inexplicable awards acclaim.

In Mexico, cartel boss Emilia Perez (Karla Sofía Gascón) enlists the help of a lawyer named Rita (Zoe Saldaña) to help her undergo gender-affirming surgery and gain a new life.

The pacing is slow and slack, drifting along until an abrupt and implausibly tragic conclusion, and Rita is just a middleman despite being the primary focus.

Scenes of Emilia with her wife Jessi (Selena Gomez) are too fleeting for their tense reconnection later on to carry much impact, Epifania (Adriana Paz) is introduced in the third act and contributes almost nothing to the plot, and the cartel crimes Emilia committed pre-transition, which confirm her as an unrelatable monster, are established halfway through the two-hourplus film.

Emilia Perez isn’t that bad on the surface –Saldaña and Gascón deliver compelling performances, and there are some poignant, touching moments – but Mexican and trans viewers found the film simplistic and insulting.

French writer-director Jacques Audiard

even admitted to doing almost no research, and described Spanish as the language ‘of underdeveloped nations, the poor and migrants.’ Emilia Perez somehow won Best Picture, Musical/Comedy at the Golden Globes, but I’d say it’s not even the best musical of 2024: that would be the bright, fun and well-staged Wicked, and even the rough, sordid Joker: Folie a Deux has better music. Emilia Perez’s musical numbers often feature breathy half-singing, indistinct melody and static staging (and that “from penis to vagina” song has been deservedly mocked to hell and back).

Available to stream on Netflix, Emilia Perez is unsatisfying and poorly-structured as a musical and drama, and at the risk of jinxing it, I will be so disappointed if this wins Best Picture at the Oscars.

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 Liquid part of blood (6)

4 Roma is its capital (6)

10 Part of flower’s calyx (5)

11 Banishment (9)

12 Fine ceramic material (9)

13 Designer, Calvin – (5)

14 Give up (6)

15 Immediate (4)

19 Mode of travel (4)

20 Reduce to very low temperature (6)

24 Handling (5)

25 Books of memoranda (9)

27 Area of England, historically the ‘Middle Saxons’ (9)

28 Perch (5)

29 Teutonic (6)

30 Essay on a theme (6)

DOWN

1 Document for travel (8)

2 Seeming (8)

3 People of Malta (7)

5 Detective (7)

6 Wait around idly (6)

7 Intending (6)

8 Scottish island (4)

9 Filmmaker, – Kubrick (7)

16 Testimony (7)

17 Poisonous (8)

18 Internet pages (7)

19 Insignia of royalty (7)

21 Comeback (7)

22 A spice (6)

23 Auction participant (6)

26 Written words (4)

PROPERTY

SPACIOUS AND STYLISH COUNTRY LIVING

SPACIOUS AND STYLISH COUNTRY LIVING

TUCKED away on 1,432sqm of fully fenced land, this newly renovated 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom gem offers the perfect mix of modern comfort and country charm all just a short stroll to local shops and the primary school.

Step up onto the wrap-around verandah and into a light-filled open-plan living space, where a woodfire heater spreads warmth throughout the home, assisted by gas ducted heating and a split system. Skylights flood the space with natural light, and one even opens for a refreshing breeze.

The heart of the home is the stunning entertainer’s kitchen, designed for those who love to cook, host and entertain. A huge stone island bench, gas stovetop, endless bench space making meal prep effortless, and storage galore make it as functional as it is stylish. Sliding doors open to a large undercover deck, where you can relax and soak in views of the expansive backyard. Down the hall, the master bedroom features triple built-in robes, while two additional bedrooms offer double built-in robes. A central family bathroom, separate toilet, and laundry with backyard access (plus a convenient doggy door!) complete the layout. Outside, you’ll find a 6m x 7m powered shed with a concrete floor, perfect for storage or a workshop. The 1.5kW solar system adds to the homes efficiency, while the sprawling yard provides plenty of space for kids and pets to run free. A gated entry and ample off-street parking complete this picture-perfect property. With modern updates, plenty of space, and a fantastic location, this home is the perfect place to start your next chapter.

This property has it all so don’t miss outcall to arrange a private inspection today. Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office.

ROOMS WITH A VIEW

NESTLED on an expansive acre approx. of lush greenery, this beautifully renovated home is a true gem that seamlessly blends modern elegance with serene natural surroundings.

Elevated to take full advantage of its picturesque setting, the property is a haven for those seeking a tranquil retreat that doesn’t compromise on style or functionality.

A standout feature of this home is the fabulous full-length wraparound deck, covered for year-round enjoyment, this space is a true entertainer’s dream. Imagine hosting family gatherings, celebrating milestones, or simply unwinding with a glass of wine while taking in the stunning treed vistas.

Inside, the beautiful renovations shine through, from the open-plan lounge with fireplace and split system to the separate dining and kitchen area all flooded with natural light, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Modern finishes and a neutral colour palette enhance the sense of space, while the large windows have gorgeous sheers which frame the outdoor beauty, ensuring the connection to nature is never lost.

The kitchen is a chef’s delight, equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, Fisher and

Paykell induction cooking, stone bench tops on the generous island bench with waterfall ends, soft close drawers, so whether you’re preparing a quick meal or experimenting with a new recipe, this space makes every culinary endeavor a pleasure.

The 3 bedrooms offer comfort, and each designed with relaxation in mind, master with ensuite, plus additional fabulous walk-in shower and toilet.

Beyond the home itself, the acre block provides endless opportunities, especially with the sealed driveway, 6m x 10m garage and workshop, great for a tradesman or just for multiple storage options, and with the rear street access off Eveline Road the possibilities are endless.

The location of this property provides easy access to Selby Primary school, doctors, the Minak reserve, tennis courts and is a 5-minute drive into Belgrave Central. For those who dream of a home that offers both sophistication and serenity, this elevated acre property with its stunning renovations and breathtaking vistas is an opportunity not to be missed.

Your dream lifestyle awaits.

CHARACTER HOME AND BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED

NESTLED in a convenient location, this charming home is ideal for those who appreciate easy access to the iconic Rail Trail, Wesburn Oval, public transport, and schools. Offering a step back in time, the property exudes character with high ceilings, feature windows, and a wealth of delightful touches throughout.

Boasting 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, including a beautifully updated main bathroom, the home has been meticulously maintained both inside and out. Whether you’re relaxing in the separate lounge by the cozy wood fire or enjoying the large sunroom with ample living options, this home offers plenty of space for all the family.

The kitchen and dining areas provide additional room for family gatherings, while outside, you’ll find outdoor entertaining, a workshop/toolshed, and a versatile project studio space that could also serve as a teenage retreat.

Set on a generous block, this gorgeous character home offers something for everyone.

Wander up the road for your pub meal, or some morning delights at the local Patisserie – don’t miss your chance to make it yours and enjoy everything this area has to offer.

HOME FOCUS

MURDOCH REALTY - THE NEW BENCHMARK IN REAL ESTATE

A new family owned and operated real estate agency has opened in Healesville servicing Melbourne’s Yarra Valley and outer east. The licensee of this new agency, Tasma Murdoch, is a highly experienced real estate agent with an extensive background in property law, property development and construction.

Whilst Tasma has lived in the Yarra Valley for over 10 years, most of her business operations have been in Sydney where she has flown in and out of. Her most recent project was in Sydney where she was the exclusive selling agent for an institutional real estate fund manager and Aware Super. This project was a finalist in the Urban Development Institute of Australia’s Awards for Excellence and Tasma achieved $51 million in sales, selling the project out by completion.

Prior to becoming a real estate agent, Tasma had a long and highly successful career as a conveyancing paralegal acting on behalf of developers delivering large scale projects throughout Queensland and Sydney as well as acting for clients buying and selling prestigious real estate in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

This unique background sets Tasma apart from other agents. She has a deep understanding of the entire process of planning, construction and sales and marketing for properties and is trained to deliver the service standards that corporate and institutional clients demand. For buyers, this translates into a smoother transaction with an agent they inevitably trust.

Tasma’s husband, Nick Murdoch, is also in the property industry developing and building residential housing. Tasma has worked with Nick over the years to establish this business and acted as a real estate agent on various transactions with him.

Most recently this has included buying two small sites for residential housing in Healesville which Murdoch Realty will bring to the market in 2026.

However, whilst working interstate, navigating border closures and being absent from family during the Covid pandemic led Tasma and her husband to decide to move their respective businesses from Sydney and open them in their local area. In January of this year Tasma opened an office for her agency in Healesville and is joined by her daughters, Talisha Murdoch and Roshai Murdoch.

Talisha has grown up in the Yarra Valley, having attended primary and high school in the area. She has continued her education attending university to obtain a science degree whilst concurrently obtaining her Certificate IV in Real Estate. Talisha has several years’ experience in sales having worked in the cellar door of Rochford Winery following completion

of a WSET Level 2 Award in Wines.

Roshai’s enormous talent for writing ultimately led to a Bachelor of Journalism and a successful, decade long career in radio and television. Roshai has vast experience working in high pressure environments and her communication, marketing and interpersonal skills are exceptional. Her career culminated in being appointed the first female Melbourne Bureau Chief for Sky News at the age of 29.

Tasma and her daughters believe professionalism, honesty, trust and exceptional personal service are key for Murdoch Realty’s success. The agency specialises in residential sales with a focus on houses, apartments and land.

Murdoch Realty’s new office is located behind Healesville’s Main Street at 6 Taber Lane.

Murdoch Realty team - Talisha Murdoch, Tasma Murdoch and Roshai Murdoch.

Murdoch Realty’s new office is located behind Healesville’s Main Street at 6 Taber Lane.

DUAL LIVING IN THIS IMMACULATE HOME

IMMACULATE and homely are the first 2 words that come to mind when you view this home. Here is your chance to find your new property.

The Owners Top Five ‘We Love’ about this Home.

1. Walks to the lake

2. The trees and the gardens

3. Views and entertaining on the deck

4. Kids running, playing, hiding outside

5. 23 years of wonderful memories

Only leaving to downsize, this residence has been well loved and maintained and offers a comfortable, welcoming, family home on a useable ½ acre with the added bonus of a self-contained unit for extended family, it would also make the perfect work from home space, with separate access – keeping the main house private.

Featuring:

• Formal tiled entry and front porch, an ideal spot for a wine, catching the last of the sun at the end of the day.

• 4 bedrooms, the main with BIR’s and modern ensuite

2 separate living spaces, one with open fire, deck access and views of the nearby rolling hills

• The country chic kitchen is central, stylish and well appointed

• If soaking in a tub is a necessity, you are going to appreciate this deep tub in the bathroom, contemporary with a terrazzo style tiles and white cabinetry

• Ducted heating, wood fire and open fireplace Unit:

• 1 bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, laundry and living space, deck access and pretty garden outlook.

Outdoors:

On just over ½ an acre of well-established gardens, lush lawns, established European trees, double remote garage, workshop, garden shedding, fencing, tiered areas, plenty of room for the children and furkids. THE location is great, not far from Emerald Township, (or Monbulk for that matter) with its bus connections, walks and rides, schools, shops and cafes and restaurants.

BEAUTIFULLYRENOVATEDHOME

Nestledonanexpansiveacreoflushgreenery,thisbeautifullyrenovatedhome seamlesslyblendsmodernelegancewithserenenaturalsurroundings.Elevatedtotake fulladvantageofitspicturesquesetting,thepropertyis ahavenforthoseseekinga tranquilretreatthatdoesn’tcompromiseonstyleorfunctionality.Thestandoutfeatures arethefull-lengthcoveredwraparounddeck,open-planloungewithfireplace,chef’s kitchenwithtop-of-the-lineappliances,sealeddriveway,largegarageandworkshop

JanBrewster 0409558805

DUALLIVINGINTHISIMMACULATEHOME

VIEWSANDAMPLEPARKINGON1/2ACRE

Thiscomfortable,welcominghomehasbeenwelllovedandmaintainedbythecurrent ownersfor23yearsandoffers auseable ½acrewitha bonusofa self-contained 1 bedroomunitwithseparateaccess-makingitidealforextendedfamilyorwork-fromhomespace.Otherfeaturesinclude 2livingspacesonewithanOFP, acountrychic kitchen,GDH,modernensuite,well-establishedgardens,lushlawnsforplay,old-growth trees,remotedoublegarage,workshop,gardenshedding,fencingandtieredareas.

MickDolphin 0429684522

“WELCOMETOTHENEIGHBOURHOOD”

“Congratulationsandwewelcomethislovelycoupletotheneighbourhood!”

Salesarereallypickingupandwehave alotofBuyersthathaveeithermissedouton a propertyorareseriouslylookingtopurchaseintheseareas,butweneedmoreproperties tosell!SocontactusnowtoarrangeyourFREEno-obligationappraisalandtogetan insightintothecurrentmarket

MickDolphin 0429684522

AlisonBarkley 0494175410

AUCTIONat7pmThur.13/02/25onsite.

Idealforthosewhoprioritizeprivacy,thisexceptionalacreageof5.16Haisnestledat theendof aquiet,no-throughroad.Blendingclassicarchitecturewithsensitiveland managementtogetherasone.Thisone-of-a-kindpropertycreatesa harmoniousliving experience.Withitstimelessdesign,thischerishedhomeissettoprovidelastingcomfort foryearstocomeandstandsasthehighlightofthisserenenaturalretreat.Don’tmissout onyourchanceat asliceofparadise.

AnthonyIorlano 0494142438

DaveStewart 0411655611

THE PERFECT FAMILY ESCAPE

TUCKED away in the heart of Gembrook, this spacious and versatile family home offers the best of both worlds, a peaceful country-style living with the convenience of shops, cafes, and schools just a short stroll away. Set on a generous 1001sqm block, this property has everything you need for a relaxed and comfortable lifestyle.

Step inside through the undercover entry into a warm and inviting lounge, where timber floors and a split system provide year-round comfort. The open-plan kitchen and dining area is designed for effortless family living, featuring a gas cooktop, electric oven, large pantry, and plenty of bench space for meal prep and entertaining. Down the hall, you’ll find a beautifully updated main bathroom with a separate toilet, a large laundry, and a dedicated study/work-from-home space ideal for modern living. The master bedroom with built-in robes is positioned at the front of the home, offering a quiet retreat.

Upstairs, two additional carpeted bedrooms with built-in robes provide plenty of space for the kids, along with a fantastic playroom/teen retreat that opens onto a private back deck,

the perfect spot to unwind and take in the views of the lush backyard.

Outside, the huge 10m x 7m shed is a standout feature, complete with plumbing, roof beams, a generator plug, rear roller door and even a wood fire heater, a dream space for tradies, hobbyists, or those in need of extra storage. Plus, the 6.6kW solar system helps keep energy costs down.

The fully fenced backyard is a paradise for kids and pets, featuring a raised sandpit and plenty of open space to run, play, and explore. Also, a second shed with a concrete floor and power.

This is the perfect opportunity to secure a spacious, family-friendly home in a prime location. Don’t miss your chance, homes like this don’t last long.

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.

FamilySanctuaryon5372sqmwithPool,HugeShed& DualAccommodation Potential!

On5372sqm,this4BR,3-bathroompropertyoffers aperfectblendofspace &comfort.Welcoming youintoa sunkenlounge,idealforrelaxation& entertaining.ThemasterretreatwithBIR,office nook,s/sheating/cooling& ensuite. 3additionalbedrooms,allwithBIR &servicedbya central bathroom.Theopen-planmodernkitchen/dining,offeringamplebenchspace,generousstorage& gascooktop.An11.28kWsolarsystem,thehomealsohasGDHthroughout.Acrosstheundercover breezeway aselfcontainedunit,anidealretreatforguestsorfamily.Thisflowsseamlesslytothedeck &fencedsolar-heatedpool &spa.Outside,A highbay16m x9mshedwithconcretefloor,power& dual3.2mrollerdoors,singlegarage,doublegarage,3-carcarport &26,000-litrewatertank.

DoubleStorey 3BedHome,EntertainersDream!

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

Over35AcresofPrimeGembrookLandjust ashortstrolltotown! InvestheretoenjoythecharminglifestyleGembrookhastoofferwiththecafes,restaurants,walking trails,freshair& thePuffingBillyRail!The3 bedroom,2 bathroomsolidbrickhomeispositionedwell backfromtheroad& hasanidealviewinglocationforthePuffingBillyRailwayLine.TheMaster bedroomhasanensuite,whilstthefurther2 bedroomsareservicedbythefamilybathroom.There is alargekitchen,withspaceforyourdiningtable, &thekitchenflowstotheloungeroom.Thereis also ahandymudroomtotherearofthehomewithit’sowntoilet.Externallyis agreatshedwithtwo openbays,& anenclosedshedwith 3phasepower.Thereisalsoa singlecarporttotherearofthe homewithconcretefloor &a light,aswellasa furthershedtotherearofthehome.

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BrennanMileto M 0422996451 3 A 2 B 10 C

LowMaintenanceHomeintheHeartofCockatoo!

Positionedon a325sqmblock,just ashortwalktoCockatoo’stowncentre& localprimaryschool. Thepropertyisaccessedvia asealed,shareddrivewaywith adedicatedparkingspace.Steponto theundercoverfrontverandah &intothecarpetedlounge,completewitha splitsystemforyear roundcomfort.Theopen-plankitchen &diningareafeaturesdurabletiledflooring,anintegrated oven,dishwasher,amplestorage &directaccesstooutside.Thehomecomprisesof 3carpeted bedrooms,allfittedwithbuiltinrobes. Acentralbathroomwith aseparatetoiletaddstothehome’s functionality.Recentlypainted& newcarpetsthroughout,thishomeismoveinready.Thefully fencedbackgardenoffers aprivateoutdoorarea,perfectforkids& petstoplay. Idealforfirsthomebuyers,downsizersorinvestors.

PREMIUM FAMILY LIVING IN A QUIET LOCATION

NESTLED in a sought-after, serene location, this beautifully renovated family home offers expansive living across two levels, with space for everyone.

Featuring 5 spacious bedrooms and 2 modern bathrooms, this property is perfect for large families or those seeking extra room to grow.

The heart of the home boasts generous living spaces, while the well-appointed kitchen is perfect for entertaining.

The double garage provides ample parking, with an additional huge workshop area for hobbyists or those needing extra storage.

There’s plenty of space for off-street parking, making this home incredibly convenient.

This home offers the ultimate blend of comfort, space, and peace. Call now for more details.

BRICK HOME IN A PRIME LOCATION

THIS original and well kept home is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

Priced to sell, this practical property is located just on the outskirts of the vibrant Warburton township. Offering convenience and a relaxed lifestyle, positioned directly across from the caravan park, Water World, and the serene Yarra River, everything you need is right at your doorstep – including a bus stop for easy travel.

The home features three comfortable bedrooms and one bathroom, making it an ideal choice for downsizers, first home buyers, or those looking to invest in this thriving area. The open plan lounge and kitchen provide a cozy space to relax and entertain, while the lounge itself boasts stunning mountain views and a crackling wood fire, perfect for those chilly evenings. Low maintenance yard and lock up garage make this a all round neat package.

This home offers a wonderful opportunity for anyone looking to live in or invest in the beautiful Warburton area. Be quick this property won’t last long!

FamilySpaceina FantasticLocation

Offeringspaceandcomfortinsideandoutthisneatfamilyhomeistheidealspotforthegrowing familytoliveandenjoy.Offering 3bedroomsallwithbuiltinrobes,plus aspaciousfamily/lounge areawithamplespaceforeveryone.Theopenplankitcheniswellappointedandhasplentyof benchandcupboardspace.Thewholefamilywilllovetheoutsidewithover1650sqmofland toenjoy- thereisplentyofspaceforthekidsandpetstospreadout.Establishedgardensand numerousfruittreesanda largelockupgaragecompletethissuperbproperty.A wellmaintained andwelllookedafterpropertyin agreatlocation,justa shortwalktothebusstopandtheYarra River.

DavidCarroll M 0419539320 Inspection: Sat9:00 -9:30am

RareOpportunity– PrimeRiverfrontLand

NestledjustacrossfromthepicturesqueYarraRiver,thisvacantlandoffersanexceptional opportunitytocreateyourdreamhome(STCA)in asereneandsought-afterlocation.Spanning over800sqm,thisspaciousblockisideallysituatedattheendofRiverRoad,ensuringprivacyand tranquility.Enjoyeasyaccesstobeautifulswimmingspots,scenicwalkingtracks,andthecalming soundsofnature,rightatyourdoorstep.Whetheryou’reanoutdoorenthusiastorseekinga peaceful retreat,thislocationhasitall.Convenientlypositionedwithina shortwalktolocaltransport,shops, andschools,thisprimepieceoflandblendsthebestofpeacefullivingwithaccessibilitytoeveryday amenities.Don’tmissyourchancetosecurethisraregem!

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FamilyAcreagewithSomethingForEveryone Aprivateandpicturesquelocation,thisrusticfarmhouseonsmallacreageoffers afantasticlifestyle. Boasting 4bedroomsandloadsofspaceforthegrowingfamily,witha flexiblefloorplanofupstairs anddownstairsliving.Thekitchenisspaciouswithanopenfeelandamplebenchandcupboard space.Getoutsideandenjoytheoutdoorswiththewideopenspacewithjustover2.5acresto exploreandenjoy.Forthehorseenthusiast,separatepaddocks,plus aridingarenaandstables. Openmachineryshedand ahighclearancecarportforfloatsandcaravans,plusthekingofsheds with ahugelockupgarage/workshopbigenoughtoaccommodatelargetrucksandtrailers. Entertainandenjoythesummerweatherwitha coveredentertainingareaandanaboveground poolwithdeckingallround. Afantasticsmallacreagepropertyin agreatlocation.

Secluded18AcreRetreatintheHeartofKurthKilnStateForest Nestledina privatesetting,this18-acrepropertycombinesnaturalbeautywithmodernoffgrid living.BorderedbyKurthKilnStateForest,itofferspeace,privacy,andanorganiclifestyle.Featuring nativebushlandandclearedpaddocks,idealforselfsufficiencyandequippedwithessentialoff-grid amenities,includingwatertanks, a17kWsolarsystem,andelectriccarcharging.Thehomeincludes 3-4bedrooms, 1bathroom,andopenlivingspacesdesignedforflexibility.TomahawkCreekwinds throughtheproperty,creatinga picturesquebackdrop.EnjoydirectaccesstoKurthKiln’stracks, forhorseriding,cycling,orwalking.Additionalfeaturesincludelargeshedding &amplestoragefor hobbiesorequipment.Thisuniqueoffgridpropertyoffers arareopportunitytoconnectwithnature andenjoymoderncomforts.

3RiverRoad,Millgrove $270,000 -$290,000

Croquet club enjoys sun

The Lilydale Croquet Club has been soaking up the summer sun at its home court in Melba Park, playing regular social games on Thursdays as done throughout the year.

A social but competitive morning on Thursday 6 February did draw quite a number of players to the club.

Star Mail photographer popped in to capture them in action.

Club records met as athletes ready for championships

By Jamie Strudley

Yarra Ranges Athletics athletes enjoyed perfect conditions over the weekend as they continued their preparations for upcoming championships.

Our Little Athletics competition was flat out on Saturday morning. Athletes got to choose the events they wanted to do, as practice for next weekend’s Eastern Region Track and Field Championships, to be held on our track in Mt Evelyn. Fantastic performances and PB’s will have athletes confident of more PB’s at next weekend’s championships.

Our seniors had a busy week. Thursday night saw three club athletes travel to Aberfeldie for the Vic Milers competition which included the Victorian Open Mile Championship.

Olivia Twining was a convincing winner of the Women’s B race breaking the club record in the process. Her time of 5 mins 2.94 broke the previous club record by over six seconds. Zoe Clarke finished 8th in the women’s C Race, breaking the club Under 16 record in the process with her time of 5 min 22.00.

Craig Hewitson continued his great form with a solid run over 800m, finishing 7th with a time of 2.33.77. Great to see the return to the track from Mia Strudley, running a solid 800 in 2.34.46, we look forward to seeing her back in YRA colours soon.

The final round of the AVSL competition was held on Saturday afternoon at Casey Fields. Some outstanding performances from our team to finish 7th on the day with some other teams fielding big numbers and playing their powerplay. Our Senior team will finish the AVSL season in 5th place.

Records continued to tumble though. Erin Taylor broke the women’s U20 100m hurdle

record with her time of 21.07. The record had stood since 2017.

Oliver Duncan broke his 110m hurdle record for the second consecutive week, this time also breaking the 20 second barrier with a time of 19.88 seconds.

Anne-Marie Ebbels broke her own Women 50+ Javelin record, throwing the spear 15.83m. AVSL round 10 results are:

Women

• 100m: Ashleigh Rooke 14.43 (-1.4); Lily Messom 15.64 (-3.7); Erin Taylor 15.65 (-2.5); Kathi Hewitson 17.85 (-3.7);

• 400m: Ashleigh Rooke 71.77;

• 1500m: Emilie Garside 8:11.01;

• 100m Hurdles: Erin Taylor 21.07 (-1.6);

• 2000m Walk: Carolyn Rosenbrock 11:19.0h;

Emilie Garside 12:57.0h;

• Discus: Meg Sparkes 29.55m; Hayley Wilkins 26.27m;

• Hammer: Sarah Ebbels 33.96m; Anne-Marie Ebbels 29.42m; Camden Hewitson 27.85m; Kathi Hewitson 23.58m;

• Javelin: Hayley Wilkins 33.39m; Ashleigh Rooke 23.75m; Anne-Marie Ebbels 15.83m; Kathi Hewitson 9.12m;

• Long Jump: Erin Taylor 3.97m; Ashleigh Rooke 3.79m; Lily Messom 3.13m;

• Shot Put: Hayley Wilkins 8.44m; Meg Sparkes 6.53m; Men

• 100m: Oliver Duncan 12.52 (-3.3); Blake Saloyedoff13.63(-3.1);DanielGibbs14.03(-3.6); Joseph Johnston 14.17 (-3.6); Craig Hewitson 14.45 (-3.3); Ilikimi Tove 16.01 (-3.0);

• 400m: Blake Saloyedoff 59.36; Oliver Duncan 59.56; Daniel Gibbs 60.86; Craig Hewitson 63.56; Joseph Johnston 67.72; Ilikimi Tove 79.69;

• 1500m: Ky Harris 4:36.66; Daniel Gibbs 4:48.43; Blake Saloyedoff 4:51.08;

• 110m Hurdles: Oliver Duncan 19.88 (-1.8);

• Hammer: Dale Bullen 25.14m; Ash Almond 17.64m;

• Javelin: Ash Almond 52.41m; Dale Bullen 39.35m; Ilikimi Tove 27.59m; Craig Hewitson 14.14m; Long Jump: Daniel Gibbs 4.80m; Blake Saloyedoff 4.74m; Ash Almond 4.08m; Craig Hewitson 3.97m; Ilikimi Tove 3.96m; Officials: Carolyn Rosenbrock; There will be no Saturday morning competition as we host the region (EMR) Track and Field Championships.

Training for our little athletes five-12yo takes place on Tuesdays from 4-5pm with event specific training (where possible) for those competing at Region championships. All registered and trial members are welcome. Please check our website for more training session details. Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability. New members and anyone interested in trialling are always welcome.

Go to www.lavic.com.au or www.athsvic. org.au or email info@yarrarangesathletics.org. au for information about membership, events and registration.

For information on training, how to join or trial, photos, results and updated news, visit the website at yarrarangesathletics.org.au or check us out on Facebook. Run, Jump, Throw…too easy!

Murray McLean. (458135)

Graham Rhodes. (458135)The ladies Pat West, Liz Stewart and Clare Tindall. (458135)

Pat West follows the line of her shot. (458135) Ryan Green takes a shot. (Stewart Chambers: 458135)

Mike Gilsenan. (458135)

Olivia Twining during her one mile win at Vic Milers on Thursday 6 February. (Supplied)

SPORT

Unternahrer passes 9000

By Les Hutchings

Last weekend Kilsyth’s Firsts, Seconds, Thirds and Fourths played the first day of a two-day round whilst the Fifths and Women’s First XI won their one-day matches. The main highlights were Kilsyth Women’s Captain Ashleigh Katoa leading her team with an unbeaten century (103 retired not out off 77 balls), Rhys McKean scoring 126 off 169 balls for the Second XI (18 fours), and Mark Unternahrer passing the 9000 senior runs milestone for the Club. It was Katoa’s second century for Kilsyth CC and McKean’s fourth, his second century this season. The women had a second wicket partnership of 174, whilst there were two century partnerships for Kilsyth in the Second XI’s match. Furthermore, Anthony Cook smashed 66 for the Third XI off 44 balls to pass the 3000 senior runs milestone.

The First XI played Croydon Ranges at Silcock Reserve, Croydon in the Trollope Shield competition. Ranges won the toss and elected to bat. In the 11th over with the score on 16, Numar Sampath took his first wicket for Kilsyth, well caught at cover by Uvindu Wimaladharma from a leading edge. In a dramatic collapse, Croydon Ranges lost 5 wickets for 2 runs to be 5/18 in the 16th over. At that stage pace bowlers Kamal Kuruppu, 3/13 off 6.3 overs, and new recruit Numar Sampath 2/3 off 4 overs, had done the damage. Croydon Ranges then consolidated with a 37-run sixth wicket partnership between Blake Smith and Matt Steiniger which was broken in the 25th over, with the score on 55, when Steiniger, who had increased the run rate with some nice drives, was caught at mid-wicket by Sudhir Prabhu off the bowling of Andy Solomons for 26 off 39 balls. At tea, Croydon Ranges were 6/89 off 40 overs with Blake Smith on 30 not out and Joseph Blyth on 14 not out. In the second over after tea, spinner Hayden Pleming had Joseph Blyth well caught by Marcus Adams, who took a brilliant diving catch at first slip. Blyth had made 16 off 60 balls and shared a 37-run partnership with Blake Smith. Ranges were now 7/92 off 42 overs. It was soon 8/98 and then 9/105 in the 47th over when Numar Sampath took both wickets following good catches by Kamal Kuruppu at mid-off and Pasan Ganegoda at point. At that stage Kilsyth were well on top, but an 86-run last wicket partnership between Mitchell Thomas, 31 not out off 77 balls with 3 fours, and number 11 Darcy Carrigan, 52 off 81 balls, lifted the score to 191 all out off 72 overs. The wicket takers for Kilsyth were Kamal Kuruppu, who took the last wicket (lbw) and finished with 4/34 off 12 overs, Numar Sampath 4/43 off 15 overs, Andy Solomons 1/25 off 7 overs, and Hayden Pleming 1/15 off 4 overs. Left arm orthodox spinner Uvindu Wimaladharma bowled very tightly, yielding only 18 runs from his 17 overs. There were nine catches taken in the field with Captain Marcus Adams snaring two.

Kilsyth were left 8 overs to bat before stumps. Unfortunately, the Redbacks lost a wicket on the second ball of the innings (lbw) but steadied to be 1/12 at stumps.

The Second XI played against Croydon Ranges Second XI at Alan Snith Oval, Pinks Reserve. Kilsyth won the toss and decided to bat first.

An opening partnership of 117 between Kevin Baldsing and Rhys McKean got the team off to a great start. Baldsing was the first batsman out for a well-made 58 off 69 balls, including 9 fours. A second wicket partnership of 110 between Rhys McKean and Joel Harris, 43 off 111 balls, put Kilsyth in a strong position. McKean was eventually out for a brilliant 126 (18 fours) with the score now 3/244. From there Kilsyth lost their way and were dismissed for 263 off 75.4 overs, after losing 8 wickets for 19 runs. The standout bowler for Croydon Ranges was Will Spencer, who captured 6/38 off 15 overs, whilst Nicholas Balthasar took 2/63 off 18 overs. Single wickets were claimed by Harrison Low, 1/14 off 4.4 overs, and Captain Michael Crosbie, 1/29 off 10 overs. Wicket keeper Ason Buffey took three catches.

The Third XI played Chirnside Park at Kimberley Reserve, Number 2 Oval with Kilsyth winning the toss and electing to bat. After losing a wicket in the first over to be 1/1, Anthony Cook and Justin Smith put on 84 for the second wicket, when Cook, who was in blistering form, was out for a cracking 66 off 44 balls. It was now 2/85 after 14 overs, and soon 3/87 when Justin Smith was out for 18 off 39 balls. Kilsyth lost another wicket in the 23rd over to be 4/102, and at tea the score had progressed to 4/134 from 37 overs. After a 41-run partnership for the fifth wicket between Mark Un-

ternahrer and Dylan Smith, Unternahrer was out for 28 off 76 balls and Smith followed soon after for 24 off 69 balls. Kilsyth were now 6/154 after 44 overs. It became 7/176 in the 53rd over when Matt Harper was out for 13. Trent Potter (17 off 28 balls, 1 four), and Russell Hutchings added 31 for the 8th wicket, but in the end Kilsyth were all out for 218 in 69.4 overs. Hutchings scored 35 off 82 balls. Multiple wicket takers for Chirnside Park were Jack Hollins 3/21 off 10.4 overs, Reuben Johnson 2/38 off 13 overs, and Luke Ferrall 2/66 off 16 overs. At stumps Chirnside were 0/9 off 10 overs.

The Fourth XI played a split innings home match (36 overs per split), against Chirnside Park who won the toss and elected to bowl. After losing the first wicket on 44 when Rhys Kearney was out for 19 off 69 balls, a 52-run second wicket partnership between Captain Anthony Sequeira and Shaun Goodwin saw Kilsyth progress to 2/96, when Sequeira was dismissed for 38 off 106 balls. Goodwin followed shortly after for 33 off 34 balls, and Kilsyth were 3/102 at the end of the first split. In reply, Chirnside were 3/134 at stumps, the top scorer being Darren Cameron with 53 off 89 balls (9 fours).

The Fifth XI played Montrose at Keith Hume Fraser Reserve Number 2 Oval. Kilsyth won the toss and elected to bat. The Redbacks lost their first wicket on 26, the second on 99, and after that continued to build partnerships, finishing on 5/217cc from 36 overs. Geoff Kennedy top scored with a solid 51 off 70 balls, and Greg Gommers contributed a sparkling 46 off 38 balls. Others to do well with the bat were Jordan Relf, 28 not out off 16 balls, Michael Panozzo 21 off 25 balls, Pat Moilanen 18 off 26 balls, and Mark Sfiligoj 17 not out off 18 balls. The multiple wicket taker for Montrose was Sunday Logan with 2/34 off 4 overs. In reply, Montrose started well with an opening partnership of 41 but after that, lost regular wickets to be 8/106cc from their allotted 36 overs. Captain Steve Kost top scored with 28 off 40 balls, and Ben Alexander scored 21 off 49 balls. John Wilson was Kilsyth’s best bowler with 3/14

Golfers put bodies and shots on the line

By David Waters

Round two of the Eastern Suburbs +55 Senior Pennant was held at the Box Hill Golf Club on Friday 7 February. The players and managers expected another very warm day. Similar if not quite as hot as the week before. Mild conditions greeted the players, overcast and almost misty. Did the heavier atmosphere affect the golf? No. The joking and banter in the groups lightened the day as it always does. The new pennant competitors were welcomed in filling the void of those no longer capable of the early starts or long days.

As the veteran players passed along it was interesting to see a variety of knee braces and other bandages, just a sign of wearing out. New parts aren’t easily obtained, and so we persevere. The use of carts, painkillers before playing and a few drinks afterwards help us enjoy our play time. Apart from the repartee and story telling we haveotherhighlights.LeighSimonsofChurchill/

Waverley was putting on the 18th green. His battery driven buggy engaged auto and drove into a bunker. On the same green another player saw his push buggy run away to the road 40 metres away. Both groups had a chuckle at the owner’s expense. Luckily no damage.

Gardiners Creek runs through the Box Hill course. It causes hearts to beat faster and increase blood pressure at the thought of crossing to the green or tree lined fairway. A few players succumbed and plopped the ball in the creek for a drink. One Joe Sykes, the Box Hill team manager, bounced over the creek. He called loudly “oh no” on the first tee only for his ball to land hard and jump the water. With another shot he dropped into the creek but bounced out, much to the dismay of his opponent. Joe went on to win 4 up with 3 to play.

A lot of lucky shots were played and some that were very good too. Duffers aren’t commented on but the thousands ‘do we exaggerate?’ of putts touch the cup and slide past are talked

about for ages. In every case the complaint is I can’t read the greens for speed or borrow. That’s what makes our golf so entertaining. It was topsy-turvy not only with our weekto-week conditions. The results and therefore, the ladders are unpredictable. Teams that were demolished in the first round came back to dismantle the opposition this week. The competition is fairly even currently, with a few matches finishing early at 6 up 5 to play. Many of the matches went the full distance and entered into the last hole one up or square. Here are the results: Gold group

• Heritage 6 def Yering Meadows 2, Box Hill 4 ½ def Churchill/Waverley 3 ½, Eastwood 7 def Gardiners Run 1 Green group

• Eastwood 7 ½ def Gardiners Run ½, Heritage 4 ½ def Yering Meadows 3 ½, Box Hill 5 ½ def Churchill/Waverley 2 ½.

off 7 overs, whilst single wicket takers were Captain Tyron Paspa, 1/5 off 3 overs, Shaun Wheater 1/12 off 3 overs, and Stewart Gibb 1/15 off 4 overs. With the win, the Fifth XI retained top position on the ladder.

On Sunday, the Women’s First XI played top side North Ringwood at Alan Smith Oval, Pinks Reserve. North Ringwood won the toss and decided to bowl first. Kilsyth lost a wicket on the last ball of the first over, bowled by Jessica Smith, to be 1/7. Nicole Woolhouse was then joined by Captain Ashleigh Katoa, and they took the score to 1/101 off 15 overs at the drinks break, with Katoa on 60 not out and Woolhouse 17 not out. After drinks, they continued to pile on the runs until Katoa brought up her century with a boundary to retire on 103 not out off 77 balls (13 fours and 3 towering sixes). At that stage, the score was 1/166 off 24.2 overs with Woolhouse on 32 not out. The second wicket fell on 181 on the last ball of the 27th over when Nicole Woolhouse was brilliantly caught by Rhiannon Green in the gully, with her left hand fully outstretched, off the bowling of Zoe Williams. Woolhouse had batted solidly, picking the gaps to score 37 off 77 balls . After their allotted 30 overs, Kilsyth had posted 2/204cc with Hoang “Shorty” Huynh not out on 11 off 25 balls, and Avanthi Jayawickrema, 11 not out off 9 balls. Jessica Smith and Zoe Williams were North Ringwood’s wicket takers. In the run chase, North Ringwood lost early wickets to be 1/20, 2/20, 3/21, 4/32, 5/50 and 6/50, before Amanda Collins and Captain Kylie Rule added 60 runs for the seventh wicket. Collins made an impressive 36 off 40 balls and was well supported by Rule, who scored 23 off 58 balls. In the end North Ringwood were all out for 117 in 29.2 overs. The wicket takers for Kilsyth were Lecia Baldry 5.2 overs 4/17, Courtney Anderson 6 overs 3/21, Sarah Gibbs 6 overs 2/21 and Avanthi Jayawickrema 1/16 off 3 overs. During the innings, Sarah Gibbs and Lecia Baldry were both on hat-tricks after they both took two wickets in two balls, whilst Courtney Anderson captured two wickets in three balls.

Tomy Lam from Box Hill lines up for a good putt.

Kilsyth Women’s First XI Captain Ashleigh Katoa was in fine form scoring 103 retired not out off 77 balls (13 fours and 3 sixes), in the match against North Ringwood. (Supplied)

Mark Unternahrer passed the 9000 Senior Runs Milestone (9010) for Kilsyth CC and is the third highest all time run scorer for the Club.

Rhys McKean scored a brilliant 126 off 169 balls (18 fours) for Kilsyth’s Second XI and was part of two century partnerships, 117 and 110 for the first and second wickets respectively.

The race for finals in reach

With five of their six teams in the race for finals action, it’s go time for the Mt Evelyn Cricket Club in what could be an auspicious finish to the 2024/25 season.

The clash between the Community Bank – Mt Evelyn 1st XI and the Seville Burras seemed to be in fast forward from the opening ball. Mt Evelyn captain Troy Hancock won the toss and had no hesitations batting in excellent conditions. Opener Jesse Fraser got the Mounters off to a flyer with a quick fire 33 off 30 balls, which was littered with three fours and three sixes, whilst partner Adam Smith continued his solid form at the top of the order. Unfortunately for the home team, the assault was all too brief, and the pair fell in quick succession opening the door for the Burras to regain some footing in the contest.

Whilst the runs continued to flow, so too did the wickets and with the score on 5/115 approaching the tea interval, the innings could’ve gone either way with the home team in danger of being bundled out for a score short of 200. Jake Blackwell was the steadying hand before tea scoring an impressive half century, but he inexplicably threw his wicket away upon the resumption of play after the tea break leaving some work to do for the lower order. Hancock was joined by his predecessor, Daniel Fraser, and the pair proceeded to keep their team from falling apart in the only way they know how…fast forward. Hancock blasted his way to 64 off 49 balls featuring six fours and three sixes, whilst Fraser would bat through with the tail, scoring 67 valuable runs with four fours and five sixes. Eventually, Seville would bowl the Mounters out for 259, and with the rapid pace of play, they would be given a healthy 15 overs for the remainder of the day to knock off a decent chunk of the runs. Sensing a big moment in their season, the Mounters struck swiftly as speedster Caleb Hrabe captured a wicket with the first ball of the innings, and with two more to his name through an excellent opening spell, he would have the Burras scrambling at 3/36 when stumps were pulled. The late wickets leave the contest in an intriguing position. Runs will always flow at Gary Martin Oval, so the visitors will know they are only couple of healthy partnerships away from making a significant dent in the chase, whilst if the Mounters can capture quick wickets, it will leave a fair bit of work to do for the lower order of Seville’s batting line up.

The Professionals Outer East 2nd XI have been humming on the back an allround game where they are experiencing success, and more importantly consistency, with both bat and ball. In a closely run race in the David Beatty Shield, each week presents a new challenger, and the Seville Burra’s season has followed a similar trajectory as they look to feature in finals action also. Seville won the toss and sent the visitors in to bat and would ensue would be an excellent contest between bat and ball, and two teams in solid form. The Mounters would bat out their allotted overs, but by no means was it a dominant display with the

bat. Several times throughout the day, it looked as though the visitors would throw away a score of significance as there were plenty of starts early in the innings, and tidy partnerships, but never really threatened to bust the game open. With the score teetering at 5/104, it looked as though they may have missed their chance.

Nothing beats experience when the pressure is on, and some wise heads ensured that the Mt Evelyn innings would plough on. Brad Jones added some scoring spark to the innings with a brilliant 63 to ignite the run home for the Mounters, whilst captain Shane Laird and veteran Ian Hawkey would keep the innings moving forward, guiding the team to a final total of 241. This contest is also well poised for an exciting finish as the chase is a challenging one, but by no means an extreme one, and both teams will be well satisfied with their efforts on day one. The Mounters will be looking for another allround bowling performance to clinch another moral boosting win heading into finals.

The Rhead Group 3rd XI have had a tough time of it since the break leaving their season on the brink as they are left needing to win their last two games, by healthy margins, to sneak back into the

top four. Under the split innings format, captain Graeme Foster won the toss, and looked to heap pressure on the Warrandyte bats, electing to bowl first. Warrandyte would cautiously approach the start of their innings as the Mt Evelyn bowlers would turn up the pressure. To the Bloods credit, they would hold firm, and despite a quick pair of wickets with the score just beyond 50, they would navigate their way through the first half of their innings with little difficulty reaching 2/139.

This placed the pressure well and truly back on the home side with the win imperative for their season to continue beyond February. When inform opener Kaydn Newport fell with the score on 36, anything could’ve been on the cards for the struggling bats. Mainstay Dickie Hearn would role up his sleeves, and would be well supported by the returning Alex Brisbane-Flynn, and the pair would combine for the most impressive, and most important, partnership of the season. The pair would not only show some fortitude in defence, but they showed plenty of scoring intent. Most importantly they would keep their wickets intact for the remainder of the day. With the right balance of defence and attack, their unbeaten partnership of 128 saw the score balloon to 1/164 when stumps were drawn. Hearn would be rewarded for a consistent season as he will resume at 75 not out, whilst Brisbane-Flynn looked as if he had spent no time away from the game as he looked assured scoring an unbeaten 46. If the pair can continue on and help the side towards a total approaching 250, or even 300, the Mounters could find themselves on the road to a season saving, moral boosting, victory.

The Hop Hen Brewing 4th XI have had to earn everything they’ve got this season and have managed to give themselves an opportunity to play finals as they embark in a tough run home. This week’s opponents, Ainslie Park, have been atop the tree for the majority of the season, and offered the Mounters a contest in which they could prove themselves finals worthy, and ready.

Ainslie Park would win the toss, and put the Mounters in on the batter friendly ‘Postage Stamp’, in a bid to manage their chase what ever that may present. As is the way, the runs flowed freely off the Mt Evelyn bats which was punctuated with a string of useful contributions. Connor Hartman (58 not out) and Flynn Orchard (51 not out) would be the standouts in a solid effort with the bat leading to a score of 8/252. Unfortunately for the Mounters, the Ainslie Park bats flexed their muscles and made short work of what looked like a challenging chase. At no time did they look under pressure, and walked away with a six wicket victory, with plenty of overs in hand. Although they remain in the box seat to feature in finals action, the Mounters will be made to earn it.

The Mt Evelyn 5th XI suffered their second defeat of the season last round, both to Kilsyth, and entered their Round 14 clash against the third placed Templeton with a point to prove. So it was no surprise that upon winning the toss, captain Ja-

son Dunstone, took the opportunity to put a score on the board to assert their dominance. Templeton would have none of it, and at times the Mounters would looked as if they would break the innings open, but they would be reeled in by untimely wickets. Dunstone (27), Leighton Joyce (30) and Craig Kenins (25) would all make useful contributions at the top of the order, but none could kick on exposing the middle to late order of the batting lineup. Templeton would run through the Mounters’ middle order as they would capture 8 wickets for just 24 runs to reign in the innings. Young guns Ezra Joyce and Harry Dunstone ensured there would be no blushes of not batting out the overs as they would see the visitors to 144.

After missing a golden opportunity with the bat, the Mounters wouldn’t let it slip with the ball as they dominated their defence from the opening over. Regular wickets would fall, and with half the Taipans batting line up back on the shed with the score teetering at 5/37, the Mounters showed why they have occupied the top end of the ladder for most of the season. Templeton would show their fight in the back end of the innings to ensure the Mounters would have to earn their victory, but the early damage was too much to overcome as they were eventually bowled out for 117, 27 runs short of their target. Harry Dunstone would complete a handy day with both bat and ball as he captured 2/20, whilst Mark Kuhne has been a handy addition to the team as he took 2/13. The Mounters will now use the remaining three rounds to fine tune their game in the lead up to finals.

The Flowtec 6th XI found themselves on the end of another honourable loss, this time to the hand of Mooroolbark. Although only posting two victories for the season, at no stage have the team been disgraced, and once again this was the case in this Round 14 clash. Mt Evelyn elected to bat first, and the ever reliable and experienced opening pair of Gary Scott and Andrew Frid got the batting effort off to a customary solid start. The only blot in the book early was the unfortunate exit of Scott, succumbing to injury after he scored 26. Frid would bat on and secure yet another unbeaten half century to again highlight his importance to the young team. The Mt Evelyn middle order would struggle to add any significant contributions to the scoreboard, but they would valiantly fight on. Finn Blanksby would add some much needed beef to the back end of the innings as his quick fire unbeaten 28 boosted the final score to 7/157.

Taking wickets has been a significant challenge for the Mounters this season, so when they reduced the visitors to 4/36, there was a glimmer of hope that a third victory for the season was a real possibility. A game saving partnership of 85 between Evan Mack and Shane Donovan had the Barkers within reach of victory, and despite another flurry of wickets, the visitors would claim a two wicket victory. Blanksby would complete a great all round game capturing 2/9 giving his team an early chance which they almost took.

Back-to-back weeks of wins from super tiebreaks

By Joanna Campe

Round 11 results for Lilydale Tennis Club in the Eastern Region Tennis Competition.

Junior Open Singles Doubles 3 v Nunawading

• After round 10 Lilydale was in second place on the ladder.

• Lilydale was represented by Alex Paladino, Ari Marappan and Josh Jamieson.

• Lilydale played away this week against Nunawading who are just outside the top four on the ladder. Both teams played well, and the games were competitive. Unfortunately, before the last singles match the Nunawading player was injured so could not play so Lilydale won the set 0-6. Lilydale won the day 5 sets to 1 – winning 35 games to 20.

Result: 4-6, 2-6, 2-6, 6-7 (8-6 tie break), 0-6, 6-4

Junior Open Singles Doubles 7 v Nunawading

• After round 10 Lilydale was just outside the top four.

• Lilydale was represented by Haady Aziz, Brodie Manger and Olivia Mason.

• Lilydale played at home this week against second placed Koonung Park. Lilydale fought hard but were outplayed by Koonung who took the day 6 sets to 0 - winning 36 games to Lilydale 6.

Result: 1-6, 0-6, 2-6, 0-6, 2-6, 1-6 Lilydale Tennis club welcomes all players of any

Paladino, Ari

(Supplied)

and Josh

age and ability. For information on how to join Lilydale Tennis Club please visit play.tennis. com.au/lilydaletennisclub.

• For all coaching enquires (Juniors and Adults) please contact Andrew at Pro Touch Tennis Academy ptta.com.au/contact

Alex

Marappan

Jamieson scored an excellent victory in a super tiebreak.

Brodie Manger and Olivia Mason, alongside teammate Haady Aziz, had a disappointing loss against Koonung.

Hatrick hero Chase Missen who captured a memorable hatrick for the Mt Evelyn U16s vs Yarra Glen. (Supplied)