Mail - Upper Yarra Star Mail - 25th February 2025

National parks petition tabled to Parliament

Eastern 80 raises $19k

By Callum Ludwig

Careful counting this week has revealed that the annual Eastern 80 charity bike ride has broken a record in 2025.

Over $19,000 has now been raised to top all previous editions of the event and boosting the event to over $110,000 in the last decade of rides.

Eastern 80 founder Norm Orr said this magical total has been achieved through lots of people and participation.

“A lot is involved and starts with setting up early morning then the official start for both riders including our youngest-ever entrants and walkers,” he said.

“After-ride activities included face-painting, music and the big raffle draw completed by Claire and Georgia who represented the Hospital appeal and participants and family and friends enjoyed the Alpine Hotel’s hospitality.”

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The CCTV promise

From smashed shop windows to bin fires, robberies to assaults, incidents across the Yarra Ranges of this kind have concerned communities for years.

The promise of a working CCTV network aimed to relieve these concerns by deterring crime and protecting businesses, community groups and community infrastructure.

While eliminating this behaviour was never the aim, CCTV increases the capacity of police investigations and may prevent some people from acting

in an anti-social manner or committing an offence.

But since the funding of projects across the Yarra Ranges, maintenance and the operation of the CCTV network has been called into question numerous times after an incident occurs.

This Star Mail edition marks week one of a six week campaign initiated by the editorial staff to explore and determine the value of CCTV, as well as the current state of the network across the municipality.

Over the coming weeks, we will speak to po-

lice who have been on the frontlines attempting to investigate and respond to incidents throughout the region.

We will look back at the incidents that have plagued townships in recent years, both in words and photos.

We will touch on the psychology of CCTV as a deterrent for crime by speaking to experts and where CCTV has been effective elsewhere.

We will speak with traders, township groups and community advocates about their desire for

a working CCTV network and the safety concerns they have for their businesses, customers and staff.

We will look at the reverse and understand the privacy concerns people have in being captured on camera at all times.

We will also document the challenges in upkeep and management of this system.

To begin, reporters CALLUM LUDWIG and MIKAYLAVANLOON explore what triggered this campaign and the history of funding on page 2.

Riders at the ready for the Eastern 80. (Supplied)

CAPTURING THE YARRA RANGES

Penny’s petition for CCTV

By Callum Ludwig

Healesville resident Penny walked in through the Star Mail door with a petition in hand in December 2024, calling for the CCTV network in the Yarra Ranges installed between 2013 and 2019 to be reengaged.

Funded through the Safer Communities Fund and with many throughout the region now inoperational, Star Mail’s reporters got together to delve into the issue following a number of crimes committed in the shopping strips of local towns in recent years and a consistent rise in the community’s concerns.

Speaking to the Star Mail in February 2025, Penny said her drive to start the petition arose from her ongoing experience with a stalker.

“I don’t feel safe in the community, I’m a 53-year-old vulnerable single mother, I live alone and I’ve had a four-year-long stalker, the court system was supportive of me, but the court system is now broken and I’m no longer protected,” she said.

“There’s been a couple of times where I felt like I was safe with some of the things that were happening because those cameras were there and I’ve called the police station because these crimes could have been recorded.

“It was just so important that these cameras picked up this crime because it would have put this man in jail finally but I was told ‘Sorry, the cameras aren’t working’ so all of this behaviour continued.”

At the time of writing, Penny had received 180 signatures on her petition and anticipated between 20 to 60 more as she had been told a few more copies of the signature sheet were ready to be returned.

Penny said after speaking to police, she wanted to find out who was responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the cameras and started to ring around.

“Keep in mind, I’m not getting paid for any of it but I am having to put in hours and hours and hours of my time sitting on the phone waiting for people to get back to me, ringing, getting handballed from one person to the next and having meetings,” she said.

“The police said to me, ‘They’re not our responsibility, they’re the responsibility of VicRoads’, then I go to VicRoads and ‘They’re saying they’re not our responsibility’ so I go to Yarra Ranges Council and they say ‘They’re not our responsibility’ so I go to Tony Smith’s old office, which is Aaron Violi now, who tells me ‘It’s up to the traders in the community to take care of that now’ and I don’t know where my blood started boiling, but it was pretty warm by now.

“It’s tough for me to say that it was for votes but it’s pretty clear when someone gets these cameras

installed and everybody’s patting him on the back and saying ‘Thank You’ that nobody asked him about the upkeep, nobody asked him about the ongoing maintenance and nobody asked who was going to pay for it all.”

When Star Mail reported on pledges for cameras being made, the funding was entrusted to township groups to establish and maintain a network of cameras in towns to report back to Lilydale Police Station. However, given the number of cameras that have gone offline and the fluctuating nature of township and traders groups that have dissolved, rebranded, shuffled committees and members and could run into fundraising issues, it may be inappropriate for the responsibility to be left up to them.

Penny also previously worked for the Healesville Jewellers, which was targeted by thieves in 2019 and suffered criminal damage to the shop-

front in 2023 and said she has headed around to all the traders and they are all so deflated.

“It’s become their responsibility and we haven’t come back from Covid yet, this is a small community and this town and the businesses have not come back from Covid, no matter what anyone says.

“Tourism isn’t bringing it back, traders are struggling and they’ve got to pay for their own security as well so that’s where all this has come from and their response has been amazing.

“I’m a really tough woman, I am a very strong woman and I have been through some traumas that would make your head spin but let me tell you, when you come up against these kinds of things your body takes over and when you get a little bit older, the anxiety turns into heart conditions, your legs turn into jelly and as much as your brain says ‘I can take care of this’, your body can’t.”

Penny’s petition and her story of personal suffering have sparked the Star Mail to ask questions and seek a solution to the camera crisis in the Yarra Ranges, with more coverage of the issue to follow in the coming weeks.

Penny said for her, the re-establishing of the camera network would mean getting back on with her life.

“It would mean being able to work again, it would mean being able to have my routine again, it would mean I won’t have to take medication anymore for the anxiety that I’m having to deal with,” she said.

“It means I can see my friends again, it means I can leave my dogs at home alone again, it means I can go for a walk without looking over my shoulder.

“It means a lot to me, it means the world to me, because my life is on hold.”

Funding and promises for a Yarra Ranges’ network

By Mikayla van Loon

More than a decade ago, the first of a network of CCTV cameras were promised to keep the community safe and deter crime in the Yarra Ranges.

The funding, brought to the table as an election promise by former Casey MP Tony Smith across three election periods, helped townships install and connect cameras from Healesville to Belgrave.

Initially overseen by the Yarra Valley’s community safety group, Centre Safe Committee Incorporated, it shifted to the Yarra Ranges Safety Camera Network as the project expanded.

Yarra Ranges Crime Prevention Officer Leading Senior Constable Luke Egginton said the Network is a not-for-profit group, with a committee member appointed to represent each site.

“The committee comprises a representative from each of the project sites,” he said.

“The network committee is responsible for insurance and maintenance of each site. At each site buildings are identified for installation of cameras and associated equipment.”

Since the final funding was received in 2019, the Star Mail has heard stories from township groups, police and community advocates of what has now become a dilapidated, disconnected and in many cases, unusable system or not in the areas now being targeted by offenders.

As the Star Mail embarks on this campaign to understand the role of CCTV in the Yarra Ranges, the current state of these cameras and moving to get these back in action, the appropriate starting point seems to be where it all began.

MP Tony Smith with representaives of Victoria Police and members of the Monbulk community in 2016. (File: 155474)

In the lead up to a change over of government in 2013, Mr Smith pledged that a Tony AbbottCoalition government would fund the installation of security cameras in both Yarra Junction and Healesville.

A $50,000 grant ended up providing seven CCTV cameras for Yarra Junction, which were installed in September 2015 and set the tone for the next six years.

At the time, the high definition fixed cameras in Yarra Junction had a 24-hour live feed to the police station with a minimum of 30-day recorded storage.

The push for cameras in Yarra Junction came after one cafe was broken into five times in a row in a short period of time and Hair Impressions salon was also the target of a break-in.

Former Crime Prevention Officer Leading Senior Constable Linda Hancock told the Mail at the time that the cameras would improve the crime prevention capabilities of the local police force.

“These cameras will help us build a wider evidence base and streamline police processes,” she said.

The funding secured also allowed for a $100,000 network of cameras in Healesville, and $100,000 for upgrading and extending Lilydale’s existing camera network.

The Lilydale CCTV system was one of the first in the Yarra Ranges, and the outdated cameras were in desperate need of improvement.

“We saw a 70 per cent reduction in crime at Lilydale station after we first installed the cameras there,” LSC Hancock said.

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CCTV network expansion was front and centre.

On 13 June 2016, Mr Smith pledged $420,000 in funding for new security cameras in Yarra Glen, Woori Yallock, Mount Evelyn, Monbulk and Mooroolbark, to be delivered if the Coalition was re-elected in July.

Delivered through the Coalition’s Safer Communities Fund, maintenance was to be paid for by community groups, whether a township action group or traders group.

In places like Woori Yallock, the cameras were to be maintained by the dissolved Woori Yallock Township Action Group (WYTAG), who welcomed the investment in keeping the town safe.

“The fact that we have a relatively low crime rate isn’t something we should take for granted –it’s something we’ve got to keep working on and try to keep it at that,” WYTAG member Rick Shaw said in 2016.

Places like Woori Yallock, being a connector to Pakenham and the south east and to the northern parts of the state, were not included in the program for its high crime rates but instead to remain steady in low crime.

“These are major intersections, connecting other large townships that have cameras, and this forms part of that wider network we’re trying to achieve,” LSC Hancock said.

“It’s not a crime hotspot – yes, crime happens, but it’s a sense of community feeling of safety.

“We’ve actually got no investigative tools – it’s a long process at the moment with no cameras.”

Over in Yarra Glen, the pledge of $90,000 to install a network of cameras, which would feed

into both Lilydale and Yarra Glen’s police stations, was to be managed by the Yarra Glen Chamber of Commerce.

Then chamber president Alex Lagerwey said the cameras would help police investigate crimes, like the theft of dozens of shrubs from the town centre upgrades in Bell Street.

“It’s a fantastic additional tool to aid crime deterrence and detection, not just for tourists, but all visitors and residents of the town, as well,” Mr Lagerwey said.

The town was also the scene of larger crimes, with an ATM stolen from the United Petroleum service station and, on another occasion, bakery staff robbed at gunpoint.

The remaining funding allocated Mooroolbark $135,000; Monbulk $75,000; and Mount Evelyn $75,000.

“It is about keeping our community strong and safe and ensuring business confidence,” Monbulk Business Network’s John Coleman said in 2016.

“We are always interested in attracting new businesses to our town and that means keeping our town really safe.”

Once re-elected, Mr Smith told the Mail the cameras already installed had brought great feedback from the community.

“I’ve had many conversations with local residents and the business community about the need for CCTVs to combat crime in their communities,” he said.

“Whether it is theft, graffiti, assault or other serious matters, this will help police to bring offenders to justice.

“The network in Lilydale, Yarra Junction and Healesville has proven to be effective in combating and deterring crime.”

The cameras in Monbulk and Belgrave were installed in September and October of 2018.

Come the 2019 election, Mr Smith committed more than $6.3 million to his electorate during the election campaign. Included in this was further funding for the CCTV network, with $92,174 for security cameras in Seville; $125,000 to finish the Warburton CCTV project; $74,721 for cameras in Millgrove; $113,532 for Montrose; and $125,000 to extend the Monbulk CCTV security camera network to provide greater coverage of the Monbulk Recreation Reserve.

Rick Shaw, Val Shaw, Linda Hancock, Tony Smith, Lisa Brooks, Leo Potter and Beverley Croke, with dog Bobby, in Woori Yallock in 2016.

Healesville Jewellers, Penny’s former place of employment, after being struck during a burglary spree in 2023. (File)

Unique silo rescue

By Mikayla van Loon

Emergency services were called to a unique rescue in Coldstream earlier this week after a person was trapped inside a chicken feed hopper.

The food silo, roughly two metres off the ground, had become blocked, limiting the food access for the chickens on Monday 17 February.

Attempting to clear the blockage from the feed drain but unsuccessful, the man climbed into the hopper. A while later he found himself unable to get out.

Lilydale SES, alongside Coldstream and Lilydale CFA, as well as specialist rescue crews from Fire Rescue Victoria, responded to the call after the man alerted family members of his situation.

“Hehadhisphonewithhimandwewereremarking that two things were working in his favour. One was he took his phone with him and was able to ring relatives to say, ‘Hey, I’m stuck in here. Can you help meout?’,”LilydaleSESunitcontrollerShaunCaulfield said.

“And the other one was that the weather conditions were relatively mild, because it was in full sun. So had it been 10 days ago, when it was 30, 35 degrees, it could have had a very different outcome.”

Because the silo was considered a confined space rescue, FRV were called in as the lead operators under the State of Emergency Management Plan arrangements for Victoria.

“Once operators from the technical rescue team arrived,theyveryquicklyassessedwhattheyneeded. There were some access issues, and some of the ideal equipment they might have used wasn’t going to be able to reach where the patient was,” Mr Caulfield said. “So in some of those circumstances, they’d use an aerial appliance, say a teleboom or ladder platform but there were difficulties in access to get that into the scene.

They ended up using other techniques, with respect to ropes, to lower something into the patient and then pull him out.

“Meanwhile we found a repair patch on the side of the silo, and that was removed to try and let some fresh air and a bit of light in as well.”

Mr Caulfield said unfortunately the repaired area was not large enough for the man to get through but “oneofourcontingencyplans”wastocutintothesilo and extricate him that way.

“But in doing so, it would have destroyed the silo. That wasn’t our first choice, because obviously this is this person’s livelihood, and we don’t want to go and cause an unnecessary cost or expense from destroying things that don’t need to be done,” he said.

The man was safely rescued from the silo after twoandahalfhoursandwascheckedoverbyAmbu-

lance Victoria paramedics.

Confined space rescues, Mr Caulfield said, are rather uncommon, especially when height from the ground is involved.

“Confined spaces can be things like drums, vats, drains, that sort of thing, but they don’t all have the added technical element of being above the ground at a significant height as well.

“It’s the first time I’ve personally been to someone in a silo or something above ground like that.

“I’ve been to a couple of incidents in my time with people in drains, and one of someone in a vat.

“And obviously, with our wineries and other in-

dustries around that could happen, but it’s very rare, and particularly with a lot of work safe regulations around those things, it’s a very uncommon occurrence.”

The rescue required team work and Mr Caulfield said it was “a classic problem solving exercise” requiring all suggestions and training coming into play. “It really highlights the collaborative working environment that we had at that job. We had SES, CFA, FRV, AV and VicPol all represented at that scene, and everyone worked very well together,” he said.

Driver tragically dies at crash scene

By Dongyun Kwon

A man died in a car accident on Heidelberg-Kinglake Road in Kinglake at around 1pm on 18 February.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash on Tuesday afternoon.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said it is believed a car left the roadway and crashed into a tree on Heidelberg-Kinglake Road.

“Emergency services worked on the male driver, who was the sole occupant, but he could not be revived,” they said.

“An investigation into the cause of the crash is underway.”

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

Melba Highway reopen

After local communities raised safety concerns, the Department of Transport and Planning decided to pause the two landslip repair works on Melba Highway in Dixons Creek.

The department’s website announced the project will be paused until further notice.

“Despite these mitigations, we have continued to see incidents in the area, and a decision has been made to pause the works while we undertake a review,” it reads.

“In response to this, the project will be paused, and the Melba Highway will be reopened as of Saturday 22 February at 12 midday.

“We will keep the community informed of next steps and any changes to traffic management.”

Yarra Glen grass fire

CFA responded to a grass fire about 9.34pm on Sunday 23 February in Yarra Glen.

CFA had 13 vehicles on scene, Victoria Police were also called to the scene on King Street.

“Crews arrived to find a grass fire spreading quickly,“ a CFA spokesperson said.

“The fire spread to about two hectares.

“It was declared under control at 10pm, crews remained on scene for some time blacking out.“

The incident was declared safe at 12.07am on Monday 24 February.

Over 1700 GASGAS motorbikes recalled

1776 GASGAS EC 2 and 4 stroke motorbikes with a year range of 2021 to 2024 have been recalled.

Due to a manufacturing defect, the front brake caliper may crack and break. If this occurs, it can result in a reduction or loss in braking performance and also affect vehicle operational handling.

A reduction or loss in braking performance or the vehicle operational handling could increase the risk of an accident-causing injury or death to the rider, passenger and other road users.

Owners will be contacted by GASGAS and are requested to immediately schedule an appointment with their authorised dealer to have the safety recall performed, free of charge. Please have the safety recall performed as priority to ensure continued safe use of the motorcycle.

Over 4000 Husqvarna bikes recalled

4055 Husqvarna Enduro FE and TE model motorbikes with a year range of 2021 to 2024 have been recalled.

Due to a manufacturing defect, the front brake caliper may crack and break. If this occurs, it can result in a reduction or loss in braking performance and also affect vehicle operational handling. A reduction or loss in braking performance or the vehicle operational handling could increase the risk of an accident-causing injury or death to the rider, passenger and other road users. Owners will be contacted by HUSQVARNA and are requested to immediately schedule an appointment with their authorised dealer to have the safety recall performed, free of charge. Please have the safety recall performed as priority to ensure continued safe use of the motorcycle.

The rescue of a man from a silo in Coldstream required all emergency services to ensure his safety.

(Lilydale SES)

‘No New National Parks’

By Oliver Winn

A 40,000 signature-strong petition opposing the creation of any new national parks in Victoria was tabled to state parliament on 19 February, the largest e-petition in Victorian history for both houses of parliament.

Many proposals to establish new national parks have been put forward to the State Government in recent years, including the 525,000 hectare Great Forest National Park (GFNP) which would include significant portions near Warburton and Healesville.

Shadow Minister for Public Land Management Melina Bath tabled the petition and said it stands up for the rights of those who want to keep accessing Victoria’s state forests for recreational use.

“Our historic petition is a voice for Victorians

who cherish our bush and immerse themselves in nature through the traditional outdoor activities of dispersed camping, hunting, four-wheel driving, hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, prospecting and fishing,” Ms Bath said.

The support for the petition grew alongside a series of rallies, protests and online debate, much of which took place on the 22,000 member strong Victorians Against The Great Forest National Park Facebook group.

But Victorian National Parks Association (VNPA) park protection and nature campaigner

Jordan Crook said it’d be interesting to know how the Liberals and Nationals backing the petition would look after the forests and move forward.

“National parks really encourage exploration and recreation for everyone, not just a small group of people who can afford big cars and guns and the like,” he said.

Woman trapped in car following Toolangi crash

By Dongyun Kwon

A woman was found trapped in her vehicle at 9.20am on Tuesday 18 February.

SES, CFA, police and ambulance crews all attended the incident on Myers Creek Road, Toolangi and worked together to extricate the driver.

“A single patient was found to be mechanically trapped in the vehicle, and volunteers stabilised the vehicle before successfully extricating the patient,” a VICSES spokesperson said.

The incident was declared under control at 9.42am and safe at 9.58am.

Ambulance Victoria confirmed no emergency transport was provided.

The GFNP’s proposal includes investment into infrastructure and recreational opportunities such as designated campsites, hunting programs and four-wheel driving tracks, while also protecting the Central Highlands from logging.

In an interview with the Star Mail last year, founder of Victorians Against The Great Forest National Park Facebook group Carly Murphy said the concern was bush users would be restricted by designated areas and potentially having to pay fees.

“The tourism impact this would have for this area would be devastating as these businesses rely on the four-wheel drivers, free campers, hunters, prospectors, motorbike riders and numerous other groups,” she said.

But according to the GFNP proposal, the national park would create approximately 750 jobs, focusing on building the economic strength of re-

gional towns that were once reliant on the timber industry.

The GFNP extends as far out as Eildon, of which the Taungurung people are the Traditional Owners.

The Taungurung Land and Waters Council (TLaWC) said the Victorian government must put Country and people first when deciding on the future of the Central Highlands, calling for a cultural reserve rather than a national park.

“Cultural reserves allow Country to be managed in a way that is consistent with our knowledge and values as Taungurung people,” TLaWC’s executive manager of biocultural landscape and Taungurung man Matthew Shanks said in an interview with the National Indigenous Times.

According to the GFNP’s website, the proposal is subject to approvals by the Bunurong, Gunaikurnai, Taungurung and Wurunjderi clans.

Two separate road accidents in Chum Creek

Two people were transported by road to Maroondah Public Hospital on Friday 21 February.

Emergency services were called to reports of a vehicle crash on Healesville-Kinglake Road in Chum Creek at around 2.25pm.

A CFA spokesperson said six CFA units from Healesville, Wandin and Toolangi attended the scene alongside SES, Ambulance

“Upon arrival, crews found two separate road accidents had occurred in the same location,” they said.

“No persons were trapped in either instance.

“Both incidents had been declared safe by 3.09 pm.”

SES, CFA, police and ambulance crews all worked together to extricate the driver. (Dongyun Kwon: 460503)

A woman was found trapped in her vehicle on Myers Creek Road, Toolangi. (Dongyun Kwon: 460503)

Victoria and Victoria Police.

A car crashed into a tree. (Dongyun Kwon: 461300)

Reform debate

By Callum Ludwig

The Federal crossbench is crying out against new legislation passed in Parliament recently which altered the caps and disclosure requirements on electoral donations, with new amendments since it was introduced in November.

Crossbenchers are calling the Electoral Legislation Amendment (Electoral Reform) Bill 2024 a ‘major party stitch-up’ while Labor and Liberal argue it improves transparency and reduces the influence of ‘big money’ on politics.

In an article for The Conversation, Professor at Melbourne Law School and Director of the Centre for Public Integrity Joo-Cheong Tham said the amendments fail to address numerous deficiencies in the original bill that was introduced last November.

“Transparency has been wound back and hollow contribution caps have been locked in,” he said.

“In significant respects, however, the package is an improvement on the status quo, which has seen unrestricted donations and spending flourish. So, too, secrecy,”

“We need to penetrate the sound and fury of partisanship and assess the substance of these laws. This will yield a much more nuanced picture than conveyed by crossbench claims of a major party stitch up.”

Prof Tham’s articles identify that the ‘improvement on the status quo’ can be seen in a few aspects of the bill:

The disclosure threshold for donations has been reduced to $5000 down from $16,900 per annum this financial year, though it is up from the $1000 originally proposed in November 2024.

Donations in an election period must be disclosed with 24 hours of receipt in the week before and after polling day or with seven days otherwise $800,000 per electorate and $90 million per party national spending limit, intended to prevent the funnelling of money to marginal seats

Introduction of overall gift caps and closure of loopholes that allowed self-financing candidates, such as Clive Palmer with the United Australia Party or Malcolm Turnbull when he donated $1.75 million to the Liberal Party pre-2018 election, to pour money into parties.

Current exclusions, such as membership or affiliation fees to party-aligned entities, will also be brought under the caps.

A ‘warranted’ increase in public funding from $3.50 to $5 per vote.

Prof Tham said the new framework is unfair and ineffectual in significant ways and yet democracy-enhancing in others.

“In blatant disregard for democracy, the government refused to refer the bill to a parliamentary committee for proper scrutiny,” he said.

“Bad processes tend to make bad laws. The government’s actions have cast a pall of illegitimacy over its political finance regime,”

“We are all trustees of democracy, with an obligation to protect and deepen democratic practices. An urgent task in that continuing struggle is to protect the strengths of these laws while jettisoning the elements that are egregiously bad.”

Prof Tham’s article identified a number of shortcomings or instances of unfairness in the bill: A loophole remains that a donor could make undisclosed donations to all state and federal

branches of a political party if the donation is under the threshold meaning a donor could, in theory, donate $44,991 to the Australian Labor Party spread across its nine branches without being disclosed. The same loophole also applies to the annual gift cap, where the donations would have to be disclosed, but could total nearly $450,000

The annual gift cap, which doubled to $50,000, and the overall gift cap at $1.6 million will still allow for large donations while parties can continue to register ‘nominated entities’ which can generate income outside of the gift caps

The per electorate and national limits are set to high, leaving major parties still have significant leeway to shift funding to marginal seats, though the limits are still an improvement on the current ‘unfettered’ spending

A ‘structural bias’ remains which favours incumbents, regardless of political party or allegiance

Independent candidate for Casey Claire Ferres-Miles said Labor and Liberal have passed new electoral laws to pay themselves more public money, cooking the books for their own self-interest.

“Supported by both the Labor and Liberal parties including our Federal MP for Casey, the new rules further entrench the two-party duopoly, written specifically to exclude Community Independents,” she said.

“Primary votes for the two major parties have been steadily declining over the past decade. They could have won back voters with good policy decisions, but no they have decided to rig the system,”

“This 400-page bill has not followed usual Parliamentary processes - rammed through by the duopoly with no scrutiny, no consultation, no community submissions, no review.”

The Greens, who as a party policy disclose any donations over $1000, were also disillusioned with the bill. Greens candidate for Casey Merran Blair said it is really disappointing to see this bill rushed through without due diligence or proper discussion and negotiation.

“Our goal is to see publicly funded elections at all levels of government to remove the influence that big money can have on our democracy,” she said.

“Having the threshold at $5000 means less transparency, which is not a positive outcome, the two major parties have trained us well to accept the least worst option,”

“It would be nice if they would step up to the plate for once and actually do the right thing for Australians, instead of constantly tinkering around the edges.”

Current Casey MP Aaron Violi largely supported the premise and goal of the bill in improving transparency, while also expressing faith in the due diligence of Labor Special Minister of State Don Farrell despite the Labor Government’s decision to forego putting the bill to a parliamentary committee.

Mr Violi said he believes this strikes the right balance of reducing the amount of money in politics while also allowing the Australian people to rightly engage in politics through donations.

“In the federal system every political party will have state-based branches and also a federal branch, the Greens, the Nationals, UAP, One Nation, they all have the same structure it’s not just the Liberal Party and Labor Party and also the reality is that while we sit under the Liberal banner or the Labor banner or the Greens banner, a federal division is a separate organisation to the state division with different structures and different staffing,” he said.

“It is clear on the public record that Don Farrell has been engaging and consulting for almost three years in regard to the legislation and has consulted and engaged widely with all political parties within the Federal Parliament and all members of Parliament and had many conversations. But in terms of the process, this was a process of the Government and they would have to provide more detail on their thinking of why they’ve engaged the way they have.”

Mr Farrell himself held a doorstop interview to discuss the bill on 13 February. Mr Farrell said from the day he took office, they started the process of consultation on the bill.

“What this legislation does is to level the playing field in terms of the Australian electoral system, it also increases the transparency of that system so that all participants in the electoral process are treated equally,” he said.

Police evasion ends on Healesville’s Whelans Road

By Dongyun Kwon

Whelans Road in Healesville was crowded with multiple police cars and a police helicopter in the middle of the night on Tuesday.

Police have charged a man after an extended chase through Melbourne on 18 February.

A 33-year-old man from Broadmeadows has been charged with handling stolen goods, possessing a controlled weapon, dangerous driving, evading police, and unlicensed driving.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said officers on patrol first spotted an allegedly stolen Mercedes on Riggall Street in Broadmeadows about 12.30am.

“With the assistance of the Air Wing, officers followed the vehicle to Sydney Road, where they unsuccessfully attempted to intercept the Mercedes,” they said.

“Officers both on the ground and in the Air Wing followed the vehicle to Toolangi, where stop sticks were successfully deployed on Blowhard Road about 2am.

“A short time later, the Mercedes came to a stop on Whelans Road in Healesville, where the driver and sole occupant was arrested.”

Police alleged the Mercedes was stolen from Carrum Downs on 12 February.

The Broadmeadows man was directed to Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.

Special Minister of State Don Farrell led the three-year buildup to the passing of the Electoral Legislation

Amendment (Electoral Reform) Bill 2024. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas)

Interest rate cut to shake up housing market

By

With interest rates finally dropping after years, a local real estate agent has highlighted the effects this is already having on the market.

Emerald Bell Real Estate Agent Samantha Scott said with interest rates going down, now is a good time to sell.

“The interest rate drop is bringing more confidence back into the market, because the interest rates are going in the right direction,” Ms Scott said.

“[Sellers] think it’ll take a while for house prices to go up, but as soon as we saw that interest rate drop, or even when the media were sprouting it, we got more buyers.”

She said even if agents see a 25 per cent growth in the number of buyers, prices will move quickly in an upward trend because of the confidence in borrowing and the potential for future rate decreases.

This comes after the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) dropped interest rates to 4.1 per cent, down from 4.35 per cent, the first cut since November 2023.

Following the drop, Australia’s four major banks: ANZ, Commbank, NAB and Westpac, all announced decisions to transfer the 0.25 per cent interest rate cut to home loans with variable interest rates.

RBA governor Michele Bullock said the board’s decision was based on decreasing inflation rates.

“Inflation has eased over the past three quarters and in the most recent quarter a bit more than our forecasts had anticipated,” Ms Bullock said. “It’s clear that higher interest rates have been working as anticipated, restricting economic ac-

tivity and putting downward pressure on inflation.”

Inflation is currently sitting at 2.4 per cent, down from 2.8 per cent last quarter. The rate has steadily decreased since its peak of 7.8 per cent in December 2022.

However, the RBA governor said this interest rate cut does not mean more are to follow.

“I want to be very clear that today’s decision does not imply that further rate cuts along the lines suggested by the market are coming,” Ms Bullock said.

HSBC chief economist Paul Bloxham has also predicted the Reserve Bank is not going to lower rates going forward.

“This is a fairly strong indication that although the RBA was comfortable cutting today, they will need more evidence of disinflation before they will be prepared to cut again,” he said.

The RBA cited several areas of concern which may affect inflation rates.

Namely, Australia’s high employment rates indicate a strong economy and with the economy performing well, demand for goods increases, leading to higher prices.

The board is also concerned about Australia’s economy slowing due to global “policy unpredictability”, likely referring to the threat of US tariffs.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the decision to cut interest rates is the “soft landing” the Labor Government has been preparing for, but there is more that needs to be done.

“We can’t be complacent about the months and years ahead. We know that there is more work to do. We know that this is not the solution to every challenge that people are confronting in their household budgets, but it will help,” Mr Chalmers said. He said despite the interest rate cut, cost of living will remain the “primary focus” of the government.

Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock speaks to media during a press conference in Sydney, Tuesday 10 December. (AAP Image/Steven Saphore)

Chelsea Szabo with AAP

Private taxi to the rescue

By Mikayla van Loon

Travelling from one side of the Yarra Ranges to the other, or even short distances within, can require hours or extensive costs if one does not have the luxury of driving.

This is particularly prevalent for the elderly, people with a disability, people with a medical condition and young people.

Witnessing this very scenario for her elderly mother, Lilydale’s Lauren Brum sought to change this by starting her own private taxi service.

“My 83-year-old mum is legally blind and has mobility issues and obviously over time, that compound gets more difficult, and we were noticing a big issue with trying to get transport out for mum, particularly when the drives she was needing were short, to the doctors, to the supermarket, that sort of thing,” she said.

“She can’t take public transport due to her vision, and she has a couple of activities that she goes to each week, like her senior group, and it was just getting harder and harder to get her transportation.”

Having been able to use the former Yarra Ranges Council operated transport service, prior to changes in the government structure of these services, Ms Brum said at the end of that, her mum was not registered under an aged care package and could not easily gain access to the transport solutions put in place.

Eastern Volunteers and HICCI took over the service for My Aged Care Package recipients, something Ms Brum complimented them on saying “they are amazing, they are fabulous” but demand was greater than what they could offer.

HICCI chief executive officer Alison Gommers said while there isn’t a waiting list for their service, with 28 volunteers available, there are some restrictions.

“Some of the drivers choose to only drive locally, some like long distances to the Eye and Ear, Maroondah and Box Hill Hospital. Then it’s about their availability. Some may be only available on a Monday or a couple of days a week,” she said.

“The other thing is, in consideration, we have three vehicles and a bus, so quite a few of the volunteers choose to use a HICCI vehicle so they can only go out for one trip at a time which is a restriction for us.

“Ideally we like four working days’ notice, so they need to contact the office, and then we can locate a volunteer that could take them and get that organised.”

Providing both an over 65 transport service which requires a referral from a My Aged Care Package, and an under 65 service for people in particular circumstances, Ms Gommers said more drivers would always be welcome to support vulnerable people in the region.

Establishing officially as a registered taxi service in December, prior to that Ms Brum had driven for Uber where her decision to provide a taxi service was cemented.

“I had been talking about starting a transport business targeted mostly to our seniors, to replace what was available from the council previously and while I was in the process of deciding to start that up, I drove for Uber,” she said.

“And while I was driving Uber, I was getting more and more jobs out in our community where passengers were telling me across the Yarra Ranges that I would have been the tenth driver who got allocated the job because previous drivers would keep cancelling.

“The Yarra Ranges were too far out. They don’t want those jobs. It’s not worth their while. I’ve had a customer in Launching Place who needed to get to work. If she missed the bus, she couldn’t get there.”

Despite noticing the exorbitant costs of short trips in an Uber, Ms Brum said “I was having to work 11 and a half hour days just to make minimum wage”.

Initially setting up as a rideshare operator in August last year, Ms Brum said unfortunately that meant she could not accept the 50 per cent discount offered through the State Government’s Multi Purpose Taxi Program (MPTP) card and excluded her target clientele of seniors and people with a disability.

She made the transition to a taxi service but again stumbled on further issues plaguing the system.

“One of the big challenges being that there is Cabcharge that people get through their home care package but 13Cabs who also own Silver Service, own Cabcharge and unless you’re with 13Cabs it’s extremely difficult to become a Cab-

charge merchant,” Ms Brum said.

An investigation by 60 Minutes and The Age, aired on Sunday 16 February, into Cabcharge found severe exploitation of passengers, particularly those presenting with a vulnerability.

The Age’s reporting also highlighted the case of convicted taxi driver Jarnail Singh who scammed and abused passengers with a disability, overcharging them and in some instances assaulting them.

When asked on Monday 17 February about the mastheads’ reporting, Premier Jacinta Allan said she was disgusted.

“Can I make it absolutely clear – and I served as public transport minister some time ago – the behaviour as has been reported over the weekend is just absolutely vile. It is disgusting,” the Premier told The Age.

“The way some in the industry have preyed on the most vulnerable in our community makes me absolutely sick, particularly because, for some people with a disability, the only way they can get around our community – maybe to go to work, to the important day programs they participate in, to see family and loved ones, to make medical appointments – the only way they can get around in our community is in a taxi or in a rideshare vehicle.

“That is something that should never be taken away from them, that should never be abused. That is why this behaviour absolutely disgusts me.”

She also announced a review into the accreditations for taxi drivers and of Cabcharge.

“The Department of Transport and Planning is undertaking a review looking at how we can strengthen the procurement practices, strengthen the accreditation practices, and also using technology as well,” she said.

While on a lesser scale, Ms Brum said the exploitation of passengers has been something she’s heard often.

This includes a quote of $50 dollars for a taxi to transport a teenager 3.8kms from her home in Silvan to her school bus stop because she would have to walk on a dangerous road without footpaths and a senior left stranded by a taxi service for 45 minutes in 40 degree heat despite the taxi being booked four hours earlier.

“One of my first clients as a rideshare driver, she lived in Warburton and was newly diagnosed with stage four cancer. She needed to go to Box Hill weekly to get treatments and a one-way taxi was $150.

“There is no alternative. You could do four hours on buses, trains and the rest to try to get to appointments. Uber doesn’t exist in Warburton. Another stumbling block is that older people don’t use Uber apps.”

Cases of people being kept in the car for longer than necessary to drive up the fare, the meter being started before the taxi arrives and young women being propositioned by drivers or taken into remote areas are all stories Ms Brum has heard.

Ms Brum is now calling on the State Government, having written to ministers, to regulate the now unregulated taxi industry and improve transport options in the Yarra Ranges.

Her letter requests that the government “investigate the lack of services available throughout the Yarra Ranges region, review and revise taxi legislation to ensure fairness for all services, and increase public transport options for our community”.

Despite many companies operating private transport services, Ms Brum said they very much cater to tourism, like winery tours and airport transfers, but people needing to get to medical appointments or social outings are being left behind and “no one’s feeling safe anymore, at least not financially safe, if not physically safe as well”.

“We have a massive issue across the Ranges

from a public transport and from a private transport perspective, we’re too far out. It is ridiculous, we’re classed metro and yet metropolitan really ends at Lilydale and Belgrave, where the trainline ends.

“Beyond that, the services are appalling. If you don’t have family who can help you, you are pretty much left on your own.

“There’s got to be a better option for the area. Ideally, I’d love to be put out of work. I’d love our transport system to be so fantastic that nobody actually needs me but that’s a pie in the sky kind of thing.”

The Department of Transport and Planning was contacted for comment.

Independent taxi driver Lauren Brum began her service after witnessing her mum’s struggles with getting transport to medical appointments and social outings. (Stewart Chambers: 460710)

Since registering in December Ms Brum has focused her service on providing safe, friendly and reliable transport for the elderly, people with a disability and young people. (460710)

Road an ‘eyesore’

By Callum Ludwig

Another Upper Yarra resident has shared a gripe with a residential road again littered with corrugations.

Near where Douglas Parade, Yarra Junction connects with the Warburton Highway, the road quality has deteriorated and bumps in the road have formed.

Douglas Parade resident Trish Roath said Douglas Parade is a busy road, as a through road to access Gladysdale and Yarra Junction.

“There is a construction zone behind as new homes are being built, the number of trucks increases daily, the dust levels are unacceptable as cars and trucks travel sometimes at 70km per hour, my car thinks I’m heading down an abyss as I enter from our drive as the potholes become deeper and wider and this is after grading,” she said.

“I am still unable to access the highway in my small Ford Puma as the shuddering has the potential to damage it, so I need to head down to Little Yarra Road each time I need access to the highway to travel to work and sometimes turning right on the corner of Little Yarra Road is difficult and dangerous when traffic is heavy during school hours,”

“Council seems to grade our road once every few months, the last was 17 January which achieved very little and the cost must have been significant and only a week later this time, the corrugation at the entrance to Warburton Highway was once again significant and that’s for our Ford Everest.”

Douglas Parade was set to be sealed under Yarra Ranges Council’s Roads for Community program which lost federal funding, one of many local roads in the project pipeline that had to be rescinded. Yarra Ranges Council currently manages over 720km of dirt roads.

Ms Roath said they only moved to the street in May 2024 but one of her neighbours told her that they all received communication that the road could no longer be sealed.

“I feel if Council is expanding the residential areas of Yarra Junction then infrastructure including roads needs to be part of their planning, we are part of the redevelopment zone, they have ensured that the new area in Timberbelle Place was done but I believe developers may have born the cost but to be just three houses from the made road is frustrating to say the least, she said.

“The developers may have paid for the road there, but the trucks use Douglas Parade, from the Warburton Highway to access the development, they will be significantly adding to the corrugation and certainly add to the dust,”

“If Council allows the building of homes on these roads, it is essential that they also provide

sealed roads in due course… no one should come out of their home, in a built-up suburban area and be faced with potential damage to their cars and that includes Douglas Parade.”

When contacted for comment, Yarra Ranges Council had the same message for driving on unsealed roads that may be suffering corrugations, as well as some advice for residents seeking to find out more about their grading schedule and how to advocate on the issue:

Yarra Ranges Council advises that residents on unsealed roads can see their grading schedule on Council’s website at: yarraranges.vic.gov.au/ Development/Roads-drains-footpath/Roadsand-Traffic/Road-maintenance/Road-grading.

The council spokesperson said driving on an unsealed road is very different to driving on a sealed road, with speed being the main contributor to loss of material on an unsealed road.

“Unfortunately, road corrugations are unavoidable on unsealed roads, so we ask that motorists adjust their driving accordingly when on an unsealed road and drive to the conditions of that road,” they said.

“If residents wish to have further sections of road sealed, they can submit a petition for Council to enter a special charge scheme, whereby residents agree to contribute to the sealing costs for the road,”

“While grading of unsealed roads helps main-

Permit debacle comes to an end

By Dongyun Kwon

Yarra Ranges Council’s application for costs covered for a Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) case proceeding has been unsuccessful, but reimbursement of the application fee has been granted.

In May last year, the VCAT ruled in Yarra Ranges Council’s (YRC) favour, allowing the council to proceed with an enforcement order to remove all items at 81-83 Don Road, Healesville.

The Slawinski family unlawfully used the property as a store.

The property was included in the Low Density Residential Zone (LDRZ) under the Yarra Ranges Planning Scheme.

Under the planning scheme, it was required to have a permit for the use of a store.

Yarra Ranges Council made one more application to the VCAT for costs of the proceeding against the first and second respondents (John M Slwainski and John Peter Slwainski) and reimbursement of the application fee from them.

The council sought an order for costs fixed at 80 per cent of the professional fees.

However, Mr John Peter Slwainski submitted it would not be fair to award costs against him because his conduct in the proceeding did not unnecessarily disadvantage the application or cause delay in the hearing of the enforcement application.

He also claimed not only the matter was very simple but also he made a good faith effort to clear the goods from the land prior to the proceeding by attempting to reach John M Slwainski, and there were factors beyond his control that prevented him from complying with the Yarra Ranges Council’s demand including the fact that he did not own the goods in question, held only a one-third interest in the subject land and had been in ill-health from a stroke.

In a decision on 12 February, VCAT senior member S P Djohan said she refused to make an award of costs.

“In my consideration of the nature of the proceeding, I acknowledge that the enforcement application was brought in furtherance of its duty to enforce the planning scheme,” she said.

“I am not satisfied however that the existence of that duty or the action taken by the applicant in commencing this proceeding, is sufficient to award costs against the respondents in light of my reasons for not awarding costs.”

Ms Djohan noted all the issues in the proceeding were properly raised by the applicant in furtherance of the enforcement application.

“I find that there was no disentitling conduct on the part of the applicant to support displacement of the presumption,” she noted.

tain the condition of the road as best as possible, there are a number of reasons why road corrugations can occur, other factors that can contribute to road corrugations include weather conditions and traffic volume.”

Yarra Ranges Council encourages residents with concerns regarding local road conditions to email their local MP about the withdrawal of funding and to submit a petition to Council to enter a Special Charge Scheme for sealing.

Ms Roath said her rates are about the same as she paid when living on a made road with gutters and great drainage in Healesville.

“The people of Yarra Junction and all the beautiful areas of the Yarra Valley that are being built up to accommodate our housing needs deserve better, at the very least do a proper grading of Douglas Parade and others or simply bite the bullet and build the road,” she said.

“I can’t understand that the costs associated with continually grading are not considered, it must cost a significant amount although they do only take about an hour to do the roads around here, it’s a quick fix and only one or two weeks after their very light grading, we are always back to square one,”

“I love living in Yarra Junction, I love the tranquillity and I love being close to the river and the trail but the residents deserve better.”

“I also find that the failure of the first and second respondents as joint owners of the subject land to respond to the applicant’s requests to bring the land into compliance with the planning scheme led to the commencement of this proceeding by the applicant in order to obtain an enforcement order requiring the first and second respondent to do so.

“Accordingly, the application for reimbursement of fees is granted.”

Corrugations have formed on Douglas Parade, Yarra Junction. (Chelsea Szabo: 460964)

Douglas Parade was initially set to be sealed through the Roads for Community program. (Chelsea Szabo: 460964)

In May last year, the VCAT ruled in Yarra Ranges Council’s (YRC) favour, allowing the council to proceed with an enforcement order to remove all items at 81-83 Don Road, Healesville. (Stewart Chambers: 460734)

PLANT COLLECTORS’ EXPO

Expo set for big return

By Tanya Steele

The highly anticipated Plant Collectors’ Expo is returning on 8 and 9 March and promises to be one of the biggest horticultural events of the year.

The Ferny Creek Horticultural Society (FCHS) is hosting their 20th Expo for 2025 and it promises to be bigger and better than ever.

Secretary and Member from the FCHS Emma Moysey said the expo is for everyone, from beginner gardeners through to rare plant hunters, as well as those wanting to relax in a stunning garden.

“We have some new vendors this year, that have never sold at Ferny Creek before, and some that never sell at any other fairs, we’re really excited to see what each of our vendors will bring to our 20th FCHS PCE” she said.

This year’s expo will feature over 40 vendors and exhibitors, many of whom don’t participate in other events, including several from interstate.

“For the first time, we have a dahlia grower selling fresh cut dahlias, arranged into stunning bouquets by an incredibly talented florist - their stand will look absolutely beautiful,” said Ms Moysey.

“This expo will be our biggest ever, with over forty vendors, we will have alpine plants and seeds, perennials, rare bulbs, botanical art, garden tools and equipment, indoor plants, roses, rare and sought-after shrubs and trees, native plants, as well as plants propagated from our gardens and so much more,” she said.

“We have a number of clubs and societies coming along, including the Australian Rhododendron Society, the Salvia Study Group, and the Alpine Garden Society.”

Ms Moysey said a highlight of the annual show is the chance to wander the manicured garden where the fair will take place or take a guided tour of the society’s grounds.

“I’m looking forward to seeing people enjoying the setting,” she said.

Some plants in the garden are up to 100 years old and members have carefully curated the property.

Guided garden walks will be available on both days, led by Don Teese and Keith Ross.

These walks are a must-do for anyone wanting to get up close and personal with the beauty of local gardens in the hills.

The Ferny Creek Horticulture Society has been active since 1932 and the community group use all funds from the expo to go towards keeping the ten-acre garden estate maintained and running their other events.

Member for over ten years now, Ms Moysey

said as a gardener she enjoys alpine bulbs and rhododendrons.

“The society itself is growing too - we now have over 350 members,” she said.

“We are a very active group, with working groups twice a week, specialist talks, Garden visits and our Flower shows that we run in our very own Exhibition hall,” she said.

“During the week we have up to 40 people working together in the garden overlooking some wonderful parts of the Dandenong Ranges. We are always looking for new members. All are welcome.

”

The weekend expo will feature a speaker tent, which is a show first and the lineup includes several rare plant experts, including Colin Hunt from

Andy’s Rare Plants, Jane Tonkin from Tonkin’s Bulbs, Ben Brooker from Treasured Perennials, Reuben Niewesteeg from Wild Rose Nursery and Fermi de Sousa from AGS VIC Group.

The 3CR Gardening Show is also getting involved with radio host Virginia Heywood acting as Master of Ceremonies for the event.

The full schedule of talks will be announced soon, giving attendees the chance to hear from experts on a wide range of topics.

For those looking to explore even more, food lovers can enjoy a variety of delicious options at the expo, including a sausage sizzle hosted by Sassafras-Ferny Creek CFA, fresh sandwiches, a coffee van, and Devonshire teas.

There will also be plenty of opportunities to shop for rare plants and gardening treasures both inside and outside on the property.

Free parking is available at Ferny Creek Recreation Reserve, located on Hilton Road, Sassafras.

FCHS would like to also give special thanks to the Sassafras Ferny Creek CFA for assisting with parking and ensuring the safety of all visitors.

“We are very grateful to the Sassafras Ferny Creek CFA who will be running parking and the BBQ this year, they are a wonderful support to our Society,” said Ms Moysey.

Buses are welcome by prior arrangement.

For those worried about their plant purchases, a plant creche will be available to store your new treasures while you explore.

The event at 100 Hilton Road in Sassafras is open to all for just $10 per person, with free entry for FCHS members and children under 14.

For more information, visit www.plantcollectors.com.au for a complete list of vendors and other event details.

For any inquiries, email Emma at secretary@ fchs.org.au or call 0455 531 911.

Don’t miss out on this wonderful event!

The highly anticipated Plant Collectors’ Expo is returning on 8 and 9 March and promises to be one of the biggest horticultural events of the year. (Supplied)

Smoke sensor could be a game changer

By Dongyun Kwon

A smoke sensor, which has the potential to save hundreds of millions of dollars in lost wine production, developed by La Trobe University researchers after a close work with the wine industry in the Yarra Valley.

Wine Industry Smoke Detectors (WISDs) track smoke events like bushfires and burnoffs around vineyards and advise winegrowers whether it is likely to taint their grapes, and if they need to discard their season’s harvest, or use winemaking techniques to remove the taint.

Latrobe University research professor Ian Porter has led a great team researching ways to help the wine industry produce tools to understand and avoid crop loss to smoke taint in wine.

“We developed the idea (of the WISDs) because growers had no way of knowing if grapes were affected by taint during the growing season, and bushfires had no accurate and rapid way of determining whether their crops were tainted,” Prof Porter said.

“Diagnostic tests of grapes were often too late to make decisions and many crops were dropped due to uncertainty.

“The WISDs has really helped growers make decisions early and given more certainty about picking a crop.”

After trials of the sensor in vineyards across south-eastern Australia, the research team found smoke did not taint wine grapes as much as viticulturalists believed.

“Growers think that all smoke causes smoke taint, but data collected by our team has for the first time globally linked the amount of fresh smoke needed in vineyards to smoke taint in the bottle. This has been the Holy Grail of research that’s now being solved,” Prof Porter said.

“This sensor has the potential to save a heap of grapes they would usually throw away, which can be financially and emotionally devastating for winegrowers. It’s one of the reasons we developed the WISDs.”

The prototype smoke loggers have been developed by La Trobe University researchers and supported with funding from Wine Australia, La Trobe University and other partners, including the Victorian and Australian governments and regional wine associations.

A network of 100 prototype loggers was deployed in vineyards in north-east Victoria after the catastrophic bushfires in 2020, with the technology refined in the years that followed.

Prof Porter said the WISDs include a multifunctional low-cost logger which measures smoke particulate matter and converts the information into a traffic light risk prediction system for smoke taint in wine through sophisticated algorithms.

“A central server receives information about smoke from a vineyard and in real time sends the risk information back to a phone app and a website for the industry to make decisions about potential impacts of smoke on their grapes and wine,” he said.

“This is the first time globally that such a system exists.”

Australian agtech provider Goanna Ag has now signed on to commercialise the WISDs over the next two years, during which time the hardware and algorithm will be further validated in real-world fire events and the network of WISDs expanded to other wine regions across Australia.

Prof Porter said his team had worked closely with industry in the Yarra Valley for over a decade to help develop the information used to make the WISDs successful.

“They will benefit greatly from the use of the WISDs to be able to be certain about any smoke effects in the valley,” he said.

“The first commercial batch has been sold but future supplies will be available through Goanna Ag.”

Food safety crucial during power outages

The Food Safety Information Council (FSIC) has released advice on how to safely store food during power outages and other emergencies after receiving an increase in consumer enquiries on the matter.

FSIC chair Dr Scott Crerar urged Australians to be prepared as natural disaster events become more frequent, leading to more power outages, a common occurrence across the Yarra Ranges.

Residents are encouraged to check the time when there’s a power outage so they can track how long food is safe for.

“If you are unsure about the time that has passed or the temperature your food has been stored at then throwing the food out is the safest option,” Dr Crerar said.

Food left in a fridge should be immediately eaten after two hours and should be discarded after four.

Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Services (DRERS) chief executive officer Tania Bevan said many residents have requested financial assistance for generator fuel and ice for eskies.

“Our service does not have the facility to store residents’ food during a power outage, but we do have the ability to financially assist people to purchase fuel, ice and contribute to the cost of a generator, and replace any perished food,” Ms Bevan said.

Residents should only open their fridge door when necessary to maximise the time the food will stay fresh for.

Ms Bevan said residents should cook food and use it up before it perishes so it doesn’t go to waste.

But residents should throw out food that was being cooked and didn’t finish when the power went out instead of re-cooking it.

“Re-cooking food will not eliminate the risk of foodborne illness as some bacteria produce a toxin, which is not destroyed at the temperature used to cook or reheat food,” Dr Crerar said.

Due to the increased distance between towns in the Yarra Ranges, Ms Bevan said the inability to access fresh food means residents have to travel further to buy fresh food, worsening the financial strain.

Ms Bevan said “This impacts their fuel or public transport budget, and their time.”

An innovative sensor is helping detect the impact of smoke on wine grapes. (Supplied)

COMMUNITY FUNDRAISER

Laugh for a top cause

Body of Wellbeing Ltd (BOWL) is bringing laughter and awareness together at their Comedy FUNdraiser on Thursday 6 March at The Healesville Memo.

Starting at 7.30pm, this event features an impressive line-up of comedians while supporting a crucial local cause.

The event will be headlined by Dave O’Neil, a beloved fixture in Australian comedy for over 30 years. Known for his numerous appearances on shows like Fisk, Spicks and Specks, and The Project, O’Neil brings his relatable humour and storytelling expertise to the stage.

Joining O’Neil is Dave Hughes, one of Australia’s most recognizable comedians. ‘Hughesy’ is celebrated for his distinctive Australian charm and quick wit, regularly appearing on programs like The Project and The Weekly.

Rounding out the line-up is rising star He Huang. Born and raised in China but now living in Australia, Huang has already claimed impressive accolades including the 2021 Raw Comedy Award and Best New Comedian at the 2022 Sydney Comedy Festival.

While the evening promises entertainment, the mission driving BOWL is addressing serious community health concerns.

As a not-for-profit organization, BOWL leads eating disorder-safe initiatives throughout the Yarra Ranges, combating issues like body image disturbance and weight stigma.

BOWL’s flagship initiative, the National & Victorian Eating Disorders Strategy Translation Action Plan (NVEDSTAP), is built on a foundation of national and state-level strategies. This comprehensive 10-year plan aims to create a safer Yarra Ranges community for those struggling with disordered eating, body image distress, and weight stigma.

Equally important is ‘My Body’s Story’ a proj-

ect helping women reconnect with their bodies in a culture where many describe their physical selves as ‘battlegrounds.’

Through guided exploration, participants address body image concerns, challenge diet culture, practice mindfulness, and rediscover intuitive eating and joyful movement.

BOWL plans to expand this successful program to serve additional demographics, with new session dates to be announced soon.

Beyond the Comedy FUNdraiser, BOWL has scheduled a Body of Empowerment Exhibition at Warburton Waterwheel Gallery in April, featuring an exhibition opening, a ‘My Body’s Story’ taster session, and a screening of Your Fat Friend with Q&A. May brings a Community Fundraising Day celebrating International NO DIET Day.

Tickets for the Comedy FUNdraiser are available through Culture Tracks. For more information about BOWL’s initiatives and upcoming events, visit their website: bodyofwellbeing. com.au

By attending this night of laughter, community members can enjoy top-tier comedy while contributing to vital work that promotes healthier relationships with our bodies.

Dave O’Neil will be bringing the laugh to BOWL’s Comedy FUNdraiser. (File)

$10k grant a big boost

By Dongyun Kwon

Badger Creek and District Men’s Shed has welcomed to receive a grant which will be spent to purchase equipment to keep the cleanliness of the workshop.

Under the Men’s Shed Funding Program run by the Victorian Government, the local men’s shed will receive $10,000.

Badger Creek and District Men’s Shed former president Alan Jones, who had applied for the grant, said the funding would be used to cover the cost of installation of a new dust collection system.

“We have a big vacuum cleaner in effect, which is mounted outside and has a big collection bag underneath it,” he said.

“It sucks all of the swarf and dust up and sends them out of the shed instead of into the atmosphere in the workshop.

“We will get the new system installed, but the date hasn’t been confirmed yet.”

29 men’s sheds across Victoria will share in more than $850,000 as part of the 2024-25 Men’s Shed Funding Program.

Carers and volunteers minister Ros Spence said men’s sheds are essential community spaces where men can forge friendships, share experiences and support each other in a safe and welcoming environment, as well as working on meaningful projects.

“These grants will make an incredible difference to communities across Victoria, providing men with the spaces and opportunities they need to develop new skills, enhance their wellbeing and strengthen social connection,” she said.

Support for winter shelter

By Callum Ludwig

A new grant is set to bolster the staffing of Stable One’s Winter Shelter Network this year.

Stable One is a recipient of one of the latest round of the Sisters of Charity Foundation’s 83 Community Grants and will be putting the money towards funding a dedicated Welfare Coordinator for the Yarra Valley Winter Shelter.

Stable One chief executive Katherine Kirkwood said while they know that the unconditional positive regard guests experience at the shelter can and does change lives, this year they are taking a further step to empower their guests towards lasting stability.

“Stable One has long advocated for the inclusion of a Welfare Coordinator or Case Manager in shelter projects, recognising the transformative impact this role can have, this was demonstrated by one of our Network affiliates, Winter Shelter Toowoomba, who saw significant positive outcomes in housing, health, and employment for their guests after engaging a Welfare Coordinator last year,” she said.

“This trained professional will work closely with guests, offering guidance and practical support to help them navigate their unique challenges, by providing this additional layer of care, we hope to empower guests to take meaningful steps towards sustainable health and housing solutions.”

The Sisters of Charity Foundation has been operating since 1838 in Australia, offering support and financial assistance for ‘community initiatives that will benefit poor and marginalised people.’

Ms Kirkwood said they are incredibly grateful to the Sisters of Charity Foundation and the good folk of Lilydale Uniting Church, whose generous support has made this initiative possible.

“We are thrilled to now say that the role is fully funded, their investment in this vital aspect of our shelter will enable us to make an even greater impact in the lives of those we care for, we look forward to seeing the outcomes that we hope for come to fruition this year,” she said.

“The Yarra Valley Winter Shelter provides overnight crisis accommodation for 25–30 people experiencing homelessness in the Yarra Valley, partnering with seven local churches, the shelter operates every night during winter, with each church hosting one evening per week,”

“Around 150 volunteers from 30 churches and the wider community contribute by preparing meals, setting up beds, and creating a warm, welcoming environment for guests.”

Stable One, born in the Yarra Valley, opened its first Winter Shelter in the region in June 2017 and

has since opened five more; three in Victoria and two in Queensland.

Ms Kirkwood said their goal is to offer more than just a place to stay.

“We aim to provide care, rest, refreshment and a sense of belonging while walking alongside those guests who want support and encouragement towards a stable living situation, however, homelessness is not just a lack of shelter; it is a complex issue with no simple solution,” she said.

“An evaluation of our 2024 program highlighted the increasing challenges our guests face, including severe isolation, trauma and addiction recovery, mental and physical health struggles, employment barriers, and relational difficulties,”

“Our volunteers are an incredible group of dedicated individuals who are passionate about making a difference in their local community, through the training we are able to provide, they learn to create a safe, welcoming space of connection, and they do this exceptionally well. However, as much as they care for and want to support our guests, they are not specialists in the complex challenges many of them face, there is a limit to the assistance they can provide.”

Donate a woollen blanket for bushfire preparedness

By Callum Ludwig

The Warburton Emergency Planning Group (WEPG) are organising a drive with the bushfire resilience of local residents in mind.

WEPG are appealing for anyone who has a spare woollen blanket to donate it to their blanket drive, to ensure residents who can’t access a woollen blanket, which can help protect them in the event of a fire, can be distributed one.

WEPG Member Karen Duke said with the recent fires in the Yarra Ranges National Park and the extremely hot weather months, the drive comes as a timely reminder to be bushfire-ready.

“Having an emergency evacuation bushfire kit in your car or ready to go is essential, your kit should include some of the following such as food and adequate water, a first aid kit, medications, prescriptions and medical documents, wallet, passport, important documents, phone, laptop, chargers, clothing, toiletries, and woollen blanket,” she said.

“Unfortunately, in the current economic climate, not everyone can budget for a woollen blanket, so WEPG is aiming for residents to have a woollen blanket in their bushfire emergency kit. it could be the difference between life and death,”

“This is the first woollen blanket drive for WEPG that will hopefully build as more awareness is raised about the benefits of having this essential item, it is part of our goal to ensure that the community are safe and knows what to do during and after an emergency in our area.”

Drop-off points for blankets are:

· Lilydale Community House – 7 Hardy Street Lilydale. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 9am – 4pm

· Upper Yarra Family Centre (Yarra Junction Community Link) – 2444 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction. 9am – 5pm weekdays.

· Redwood Community Centre – 3505 Warburton Highway, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 10am – 2.30pm.

Ms Duke said living in one of the highest bushfire-prone areas in Australia, the community and visitors need to be prepared, and many would not think to have a woollen blanket included in their emergency kit.

“A 100 per cent woollen blanket is naturally fire resistant, non-conductive and has good resistance to abrasion, unlike other man-made fibres, wool will not melt, drip, or stick to the skin when in contact with flames,” she said.

“By keeping a woollen blanket in your car, it

will act as a personal protection blanket in keeping you and others safe, in the event of a fire and you are stuck in the car, get down below window level and cover up with a woollen blanket as this will increase your chances of survival,”

“So, poke around in your cupboards and closets, if you have any 100 per cent pure woollen blankets in good condition, please consider donating them to our group to be passed out to others that might need them.”

Other important items to have in a bushfire kit include:

· Overnight bag with a change of clothes and toiletries

· Medicines and a first-aid kit

· Important documents and items such as passports, wills, birth certificates, photos and jewellery

· Mobile phone and charger

· Adequate amount of water

· Contact information for your doctor, local council and power company

· Face masks

· Hand sanitiser

· Antibacterial wipes

Ms Duke said as a resident in Warburton, she would encourage the community, and particularly new residents in the area, to attend the CFA bushfire-ready information night. “We all have our own trigger point when to leave, be safe, and stay alive, this should be in a bushfire plan discussed with others ensuring safety and survival, along with leaving early in the warmer months and high bushfire days,” she said.

A new Welfare Coordinator will be joining the Yarra Valley Winter Shelter to help take pressure off volunteers such as sisters Jannie and Hetty van Leeuwen. (File)

Karen Duke with a woollen blanket outside one of the drop-off points at the Upper Yarra Family Centre. (Supplied)

Badger Creek and District Men’s Shed will receive $10,000 under the Men’s Shed Funding Program. (Dongyun Kwon: 412291)

Turn to Treadworx

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

They offer an impressive range of tyres from leading brands like Maxxis, Yokohama, Falken, Kumho, and many more.

Whether you’re looking for durability, performance, or a bit of both, you’ll find the perfect tyre for your vehicle here.

Their wheel selection is equally extensive, featuring popular names such as Extreme 4x4, Dynamic, Sniper, ROH, PDW, Lenso, and others, ensuring a stylish and functional fit for any ride.

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

Owner Nathan Hawkless sums it up well:

“With over 20 years of experience and a knowledgeable team, we’re dedicated to offering a wide range of high-quality products and services at competitive prices,” he said.

For expert advice, exceptional service, and a personal touch, Treadworx Lilydale is your local destination. Stop by and find out why they’re the preferred choice for so many!

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

Remembering an icon

By Callum Ludwig

Yarra Junction is mourning the death of a dedicated firefighter and community man.

Ted Shalders was born in Yarra Junction on 15 January 1954 as the sixth of seven children with parents who were heavily involved in the township, giving Ted his early exposure to the benefits of community spirit.

Ted’s daughter Catherine Branson said he was very involved in the community.

“He spent many years umpiring the local football, he was a member of the Upper Yarra Cemetery Trust holding the position of President for some time, President of the Yarra Junction Ambulance Branch Development Committee and played a big part in the redevelopment of the Yarra Junction Ambulance Station, but his biggest love was for the fire brigade,” she said.

“He joined the Yarra Junction Fire Brigade in 1970 at the age of 16, following in his father’s footsteps and was a dedicated member, reaching 55 years of service,”

“Ted attended many significant fires, Ash Wednesday is one his family remembers well as Jennifer was left at home with three young children while Ted braved the flames to protect the community he loved so much.”

During his time with the Yarra Junction Fire Brigade, Ted held the position of Captain for 13 years and also held the positions of Foreman, Sec-

retary, Treasurer and Deputy Group Officer over the years while becoming a life member of the brigade. During his time as Captain in 2001 Ted was awarded his National Medal and he is also a CFA Life Member.

Ms Branson said Ted helped with the extensions at the Yarra Junction Fire Station in the late 90’s.

“Many submissions were made to the CFA and once approved the building works started with Ted and some other long-standing members personally working on the improvements, making the station what it is today,” she said.

“Ted played a part in the early stages of the Junior fire brigade at Yarra Junction as a leader, with three of his daughters joining, family socials at the CFA were always fun nights and Dad taking the kids for a ride in the back of the old Austin pumper around the block are some memories that will never be forgotten,”

“Before Triple Zero existed Ted’s daughters have fond memories of the telephone ringing, when this occurred Ted would yell ‘fire phone’ and the house went silent so the call could be answered and the siren activated, then he would be off to the call.”

Following in her own father’s footsteps, Ms Branson is a currently-serving life member of the Yarra Junction Fire Brigade herself and has recently hit 30 years of service.

Ms Branson said when Ted was not being a

Connecting the community one more time

By Dongyun Kwon

The Connecting Community Festival (CCF) is coming back to Healesville with an upgraded plan reflecting last year’s experience.

The festival was organised by Healesville resident Catherine Nolan last year with the vision of connecting community members.

CCF coordinator Catherine Nolan said this year’s theme for the festival is ‘What’s in your backyard’.

“It’s to encourage people to come and see what community groups are available, what different things are happening (in the town),” she said.

The CCF is a one-day festival but there will be two fringe events, which will get the Healesville community warmed up for the festival.

The first fringe event, the Street Parade (Murga Madre Parade) Hat Making Workshop, will be held between 5.30pm and 6.30pm on Thursday 6 March at the Healesville Library.

Murga Madre is a form of street theatre typical of the Carnival celebrations in Uruguay, Argentina, Panama and Spain.

Ms Nolan said the workshop is designed to give people a background of the Murga Madre, one of the main events at the festival.

“Come and learn about the whole history and tradition of the Murga Madre Parade and make a hat to wear,” she said.

“On Friday 7 March, we’re having 12 amazing artists perform their original songs at the Writers and Rhythm Night at the Healesville Uniting Church.”

This year, the CCF is again to take place at the Healesville Pop-Up Space, inside the library and The Memo, commencing at 10am on Saturday 8 March.

Inside the Healesville Library, morning tea and kids activities will be prepared while the Healesville Living and Learning Centre and the Healesville Historical Society’s displays are on exhibit from 10am.

“(It’s) not part of the festival but the library has already organised a guest speaker who’s going to be talking about travelling around in a van,” Ms Nolan said.

Community stalls will be set at the pop-up space and in The Memo.

volunteer he would be spending time running around after his daughters (Rachael, Leonie, Catherine and Robyn).

“Picking them up at night including the crowd that they were hanging around with, Ted would often do three to four trips around the valley making sure his daughter’s friends got home safe,” she said.

“As well as his voluntary roles, Ted was a hardworking man, he was a builder by trade and always used to point out houses he had built or renovated wherever he went, over the years Ted had many apprentices, who to this day speak extremely highly of him and are thankful for all he taught them,”

“Ted gave up his tools and became a VCAL Teacher in Building and Construction to students, much to his surprise he really enjoyed this and wished he had done it earlier, he never wanted to slow down and retire but his health forced him to in 2021.”

Ted met and married his wife Jennifer in 1975, building their house, life and family in Yarra Junction, going on to have his four daughters and 10 grandchildren.

Ms Branson said Ted passed away peacefully on Saturday 15 February.

“Ted was a very caring, friendly, committed man who would do anything for anyone, nothing was ever too much trouble,” she said.

“He was always there, he will be missed by many.”

There will be lots of different activities from dance and music to workshops and displays, including First Nations artworks, along with food and drinks to add the festive vibe.

“At 12.30pm, the Street Parade is going to come through from the Healesville Senior Citizens Hall,” the festival organiser said.

“People who want to be part of the parade can go to the hall at 11 o’clock and learn some dance moves.

“They’re going to walk up from the Healesville Seniors Citizens Hall, all the way to Reece Plumbing Healesville to the crossing, walking along the main street and back to the pop-up space.”

Andrew Peters, Healesville-raised First Nations man, is going to be an MC of the day on the Community Stage, and the Yarra Valley Car Club is going to host a picnic, displaying classic cars at the corner of Green Street and River Street.

The daytime festival will be finished up with a Youth Concert run by Ethan Prentice, a young radio presenter.

After the Youth Concert, the CCF will be back with the Marvellous March Cabaret Ball at The Memo presented by the Rotary Club of Healesville from 7.30pm.

The theme of the ball is Alice In Wonderland.

All the activities are free of charge except for the Writers and Rhythm Night and the Marvellous March Cabaret Ball.

Kids are also welcome to come along to the festival to enjoy face painting and diverse workshops such as zine making and Wayapa Wuurrk.

Ted Shalders with daughters Catherine (left) and Leonie (right) in CFA uniform. (Supplied)

The Memo Foyer got packed with people from Healesville and beyond enjoying the festival last year. (Tanya Steele: 394235)

Ted Shalders with grandson Patrick squirting the hose at a Yarra Junction Fire Brigade Open Day. (Supplied)

Ted Shalders (right) receiving his CFA National Medal in 2001. (Supplied)

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

New theatre group ready

By Dongyun Kwon

A new theatre company wants to provide a production opportunity to people in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.

Hills Act Theatre Company was formed in September last year by Healesville resident Phil Stephenson.

Stephenson has been in the theatre industry for about 45 years and now hopes to use his talents and experience to foster future theatre stars.

The founder said the main focus of the company is to get younger people on board to teach all different aspects of theatre.

“Last year, I thought it would be a great idea if I could use anything that I’ve learnt from the theatre to teach younger people who were trying to get into the theatre but couldn’t,” he said.

“I will look at plays that support younger people not only as actors but as directors, stage managers, set designers and everything.”

Stephenson went to the Victorian College of the Arts.

He also spent a year at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) before leaving to experience film.

“I did a few films and I dropped out because I wasn’t interested in the industry,” Stephenson said.

“I came back to (theatre) and did a lot of amateur theatre in different places in Queensland, in Noosa, down here, in Lilydale and Glen Waverley.”

10 people have joined the company and are now preparing for their first production Breathless which will be put on at The Memo, Healesville in April and May.

“The cast we’ve got are very varied. There are some who have had an experience and some who have never actually been on the stage,” the founder said.

“We’ve got a mix of people there who want to learn and they’re all at different levels, and it’s exciting to see them all come together.”

Ettie McCarthy and Harrison Garratt both recently graduated from Healesville High School.

Since high school, they have been interested in theatre production and have done some theatre productions together.

The two friends have joined the Hills Act Theatre Company to continue developing their skills.

McCarthy is now taking the role of assistant director to support Stephenson but is also practising acting skills.

“When you leave high school, you feel very untethered to any community, and one of the biggest lack of connection that I was going to miss was theatre,” McCarthy said.

“Because that was something you could always go to in high school.”

Garratt said he wanted to have more theatre

experience.

“I was looking around, trying to find some theatre companies I might be able to join,” he said.

“I just finished a two-year course in screen acting at the Australian College of Dramatic Arts last year.”

Not only theatre experience, the Hills Act Theatre Company also provides a space for social connection.

McCarthy said they’ve created a little group outside the theatre.

“We’ve all become very close, very quickly,” she said.

The Bendigo Bank Healesville and Healesville Lions Club have bought $1000 worth of tickets re-

spectively to support the Hills Act Theatre Company.

The Yarra Ranges Council has sponsored the company through its Monthly Grants program.

Stephenson said anybody is eligible to join the company depending on the play.

“The company is hoping that we’ll continue to do this, maybe two or three plays a year,” he said.

For more information, please contact Hills Act Theatre Company via email at hillsacttheatre@ gmail.com, a phone call at 0480191058, or search up Hills Act Theatre Company on Facebook and Instagram.

Women’s Day portrait series brings all together

Warburton photographer Suzanne Phoenix’s annual additions to her International Women’s Day (IWD) photographic portrait series have arrived, with an array of new names and faces featured.

This year’s new arrivals include a variety of Melbourne personalities including activists, actors, artists, authors, DJs, fashionistas, journalists, models, musicians, performers and producers.

Ms Phoenix said she is excited to bring together another 23 people into her IWD portrait series in 2025.

“I continue to collaborate with cis and trans women and gender diverse people, predominantly in Melbourne’s music and queer performance scenes, as a place to document and provide an uncensored voice,” she said.

“We continue to live in a society where gender-based violence and oppression is ever present so I continue to build on this annual series and I hope this work contributes in some way to changing perceptions and challenges everyone to reach beyond the staid IWD breakfast events.”

The new portraits added to the collection this year consist of:

• Writer, journalist and publisher of Archer Magazine Amy Middleton

• Singer and lyricist of Frenzee Apollonia Singer

• Singer and visual artist of Gut health Athina

Uh oh

• Events producer, podcast producer and radio broadcaster Be Zewdie

• Performer and maker of Cong Josie Camilla McKewen

• Singer, actor, author, speaker and entertainer Casey Donovan

• Musician Delfi Sorondo of The Maggie Pills

• Musician Emilee South

• Actor and activist Frankie Mazzone

• Artist Georgia Knight

• Artist Ginger Light

• Artist Grace Cummings

• Musician and record label co-founder Isobel Buckley (Blonde Revolver, Rack off Records, Gutter Girls 69)

• Writer and carer Karen Pickering

• Musician Kerri Simpson of Opelousas

• Musician, visual artist and filmmaker Lauren Hester (Private Function, Daddy Issues)

• Veteran Vamp fashionista Michelle Trebilco

• DJ, event curator and sound artist MzRizk

• Singer of RVG Romy Vager

• Musician Sarah Blaby (Plaster of Paris, The Maggie Pills, Double Vanity)

• Femicide researcher and social justice journalist Sherele Moody

• Artist Ursula Dutkiewicz

• Vocalist Zec Zechner (Plaster of Paris, Double Vanity)

Ms Phoenix is set to release a self-published book which will include both the portraits and each person’s uncensored written response to the question – ‘What Does International Women’s Day Mean to me?’

Casey Donovan said IWD is a time to reflect on the remarkable achievements of women throughout history.

“It’s a day and time to celebrate the strides made towards gender equality and acknowledge the ongoing fight for women’s rights worldwide,” she said.

“This day serves as an important reminder of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, it’s a time to honour the strength and resilience of women who have paved the way for future generations,”

“Let us continue to support and empower women every day to create a safe place to live, work and encourage our future generations.”

The series is in its 14th year and has featured hundreds of Melbourne’s cis and trans women in Ms Phoenix’s ‘signature black and white style.’

Sherele Moody said IWD is a powerful moment when women come together to save other women’s lives.

“It’s an opportunity to highlight the ongoing toll and impact of gendered violence on Australia while commemorating killed women and children,”

“We cannot move forward without change: The stories of killed women and children are the most powerful way to turn the page on violence in Aus-

tralia.”

The portraits will be in-residence at Queen Victoria Women’s Centre (QVWC) during March sponsored by Australian Femicide Watch and SMLXL Fine Art Print Studio and supported by QVWC.

MzRizk said as someone who has navigated some of these challenges firsthand, International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the collective power they have to drive meaningful change.

“It motivates me to keep curating spaces and events that promote diversity and connection,” she said.

Ms Phoenix’s entire IWD project can be viewed at: suzannephoenix.com/iwd.

International Women’s Day will be celebrated on Saturday 8 March 2025.

L-R: Harrison Garratt, Phil Stephenson, and Ettie McCarthy. (Dongyun Kwon: 461087)

Sherele Moody of Australian Femicide Watch. (Suzanne Phoenix)

Casey Donovan. (Suzanne Phoenix)

Frankie Mazzone. (Suzanne Phoenix)

MzRi

The future of Monbulk

By

Imagining what the future may look like is exactly what students at Monbulk Primary School have been exploring in their STEM classes.

From drone delivery to solar panels on every rooftop, Grade 5 and 6 students have been designing and building to-scale models of the Main Street’s businesses.

The project, which began last year, has seen groups of students draw on their knowledge of sustainability, technology, engineering, art and design to create structures that are sturdy and each with an element of electricity.

Once complete the model will go on display as part of the Repower Festival heading to Monbulk on 23 March.

Principal Estelle Alder said the real world application of their skills and learnings has been a wonderful way for the students to understand their town.

“This is such a great opportunity for them to apply what they learn in STEM to a real world situation, which is what we want to do, and ties in our schools commitment to sustainability as well,” she said.

“It also helps them understand the community, because they will be designing our towns of the future, and we want them to be able to think sustainably in design.”

Using mostly recycled materials, every aspect of the project was designed to encourage students to think about the environment and the best practices to keep it safe.

For students Mackenzie, Eliza, Myla and Alannah, who chose to recreate Friends on The Hill cafe it was all about sustainability, greenery and colour.

“We thought it would be fun to do it because it’s one of my favourite cafes and we thought it would be nice to add more plants and add a lot of creativity to it and stuff to do with the environment,” Mackenzie said.

“We’ve learned to put in these lights, how to work them, the circuits and how to build them.”

Jack and his group decided to design COG Bike Shop and employed the use of the 3D printer to cut out the logo to put atop the shopfront.

It took about two sessions to get it right because of the intricacies of the cog used in the logo.

The group also had to bring in some extra

“We did a mural on the roof, and added solar panels, lots of plants. And then we’ve added coat hangers, and we’ve done lots of bushes. We’ve added the piano that moves around occasionally, and then the bookshelf, the little library thing.

structural supports to ensure the building would remain upright but they were able to overcome each of these hurdles by thinking critically about what would work.

Designing Chemist Warehouse, Angus and his group decided that in the future, the use of drones would be instrumental to getting goods to people.

“Our STEM teacher told us a heap of different things we could do to make it more sustainable, and drones were one of them, for a drone delivery

Incredible eagle rescued in Monbulk

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

A wedge-tailed eagle in distress was rescued in Monbulk on Friday 14 February, by a dedicated team of volunteers from Vets for Compassion.

The bird had been grounded and was struggling to fly, prompting a call to the organisation’s rescuers.

Vet for Compassion’s photographer and rescuer Jacquie Withers was one of the first to respond to the scene.

Upon arrival, she carefully kept an eye on the eagle, ensuring it stayed put while awaiting help - Carol Seeger from the Emerald Wildlife Shelter, along with Narida, Anita, and Tash from Vets for Compassion, joined her soon after.

A vet from Vets for Compassion joined the rescue to assess and provide on-site treatment if needed, arriving alongside Narida.

Together, they worked swiftly and safely to capture the eagle using nets and blankets, minimising stress for the animal.

The eagle was then transported to the Australian Wildlife Health Centre at Healesville Sanctuary, where expert vets and nurses began providing crucial care.

The founder and chief executive officer of Vets for Compassion Elaine Ong explained the importance of the organisation’s role in situations like this.

“We’re filling a critical gap that no one else seems able to address. Many other organisations, including the police or councils, aren’t equipped for this kind of wildlife rescue, and that’s where we come in,” Ms Ong said.

“We have the training, experience, and resources to humanely capture animals in distress, provide the immediate care they need, and get them to places where they can recover. It’s vital work, and without us, a lot of these animals would just be left to suffer.”

“It’s incredibly hard, emotionally and physically, to see so many animals in pain, but knowing we can make a difference, even if it’s just for one animal, makes it all worthwhile.”

Healesville Sanctuary Veterinarian Sarah Panigas said the eagle arrived in a very poor

state.

“It was extremely weak and emaciated, but no physical injuries were found. However, the bird did have oral candidiasis, a fungal infection in the mouth, and was anaemic, with an elevated white blood cell count,” she said.

“Fortunately, with proper care, the fungal infection was treated, and the bird’s bloodwork began to improve.”

Ms Panigas said the eagle’s recovery has been steady, with the bird becoming brighter, eating on its own, and gradually regaining weight. While there’s still a long way to go before the bird can be safely released back into the wild, she is optimistic about its progress.

“The eagle has shown good improvement over the past week, but we still have some time ahead before it’s ready for release,” she said.

“Once it regains strength and weight, we will begin flight training in the Raptor Rehabilitation Centre, which will be a crucial step before it can return to the wild.”

Despite the emotional challenges of wildlife rescue, the volunteers at Vets for Compassion remain committed to their mission.

“The work we do is tough, and it’s not always successful - unfortunately, not every animal can be saved. But when we do manage to help, when we get a bird like this eagle back on its feet, it makes all the hard work feel worth it,” Ms Withers said.

“It’s also incredibly rewarding to be part of a team that is so passionate and dedicated. Everyone, from the vets to the rescuers to the photographers, is there because they want to make a positive impact.”

“It’s not easy, especially as we’re all volunteers and juggling full-time jobs and personal lives, but when you see the change you’re making, it really motivates you to keep going.”

Vets for Compassion relies entirely on donations from the public to fund their vital work. From rescuers to photographers like Jacquie, every volunteer plays a crucial role in saving wildlife across Melbourne.

“If people could just remember that we are a completely volunteer-run organisation, it would mean the world to us,” Ms Withers said.

“We don’t get paid for what we do, and many of us work full-time jobs in other areas. But it’s the passion for helping animals that keeps us going. We couldn’t do this without the generosity of the public, and every donation, no matter how small, helps us keep saving lives.”

If you see injured wildlife in Monbulk or anywhere else, don’t hesitate to report it - it could make all the difference.

For more information about Vets for Compassion or to make a donation, visit their Facebook page at Vets for Compassion or website. Your support is what makes these rescues possible.

service, so me and my group decided to put that on there,” Angus said.

Working with his group to design the building and electrical circuit, Angus said they also faced some trial and error in the construction.

“I spent two sessions doing a circuit design, and then I noticed it had a fault, so I had to restart a different design,” Angus said.

The students are excited to see the final product on display at Repower Festival in a few weeks time.

Time for permaculture

By Oliver Winn

A celebration of sustainable living is set to kick off this March with Permaculture Week 2025 - a week’s worth of events covering eco-friendly farm visits, soul dancing, cheesemaking and much more.

Permaculture Yarra Valley (PYV), ECOSS and PEACE Farm have banded together to host 23 events open to the public, taking place from 22 March at multiple locations throughout the Yarra Valley.

PYV president Robert Marston said permaculture aims to create a “harmonious and sustainable” relationship between people and the earth through sustainable practices.

“It’s nice to have a definition of permaculture but seeing what people have done and the sort of places they’ve created has lots of benefits,” Mr Marston said.

With over 400 attendees last year, 2025’s permaculture week is expected to draw in many locals of varying interests.

Those interested in getting their hands dirty can attend the Worm Farming Workshop at the PEACE Farm, while those looking for more creative events can go to a Writing With The Earth class.

But Permaculture Week is more than just working with the land.

Mr Marston said “It’s very much about involving community in every activity that we can with the idea of ultimately everybody working in harmony to achieve a sustainable lifestyle.”

“We’ve got three basic ethics, which are people care, earth care and fair share.”

Once Permaculture Week ends, Mr Marston encouraged participants to join PYV so they can get involved and promote permaculture practices in the future. Mr Marston said later this year members of PYV will be able to undertake a permaculture design certificate course teaching the basics of permaculture and practical applications. To find out more, visit permacultureyarravalley.org/events

Grade 6 students Jack, Angus, Alannah, Myla, Eliza and Mackenzie. (Mikayla van Loon: 461482)

Mikayla van Loon

Rescued Wedge-tailed Eagle at Australian Wildlife Health Centre at Healesville Sanctuary. (Supplied)

Local wines on global stage

By Dongyun Kwon

Beyond the national stage, locally produced wines have entered into international markets.

Gruyere-based winery Yarra Yering’s wines are on display at La Cite du Vin, the world’s largest wine museum in Bordeaux, France, highlighting the Yarra Valley’s reputation as a premium winemaking region.

La Cite du Vin is a major tourist attraction that welcomes more than 400,000 wine lovers every year.

Yarra Yering along with other wineries has been selected to showcase the diversity and vibrancy of the wines produced across Victoria.

Yarra Yering winemaker and general manager Sarah Crowe said it was a wonderful surprise to be promoted in this way in a great wine producing country.

“It is pleasing to see the French promoting the world of wine and looking outwards globally,” she said.

“Our flagship wine is a Bordeaux inspired blend and we are proud to be poured in the region where it was inspired as a wonderful Australian interpretation.”

The wines were chosen by Global Victoria in collaboration with Wine Victoria, the museum, and the Victorian Government office in France.

“The selection was guided by the palate preferences of European buyers, the existing presence and availability of the wines in the European market, and their potential for growth, while representing Victoria’s Five Pillars (Shiraz Central, Pinot Coast, Muscat of Rutherglen, Yarra Valley, and King Valley),” Ms Crowe said.

Four Yarra Yering wines have been selected to be exhibited; Warramate Chardonnay 2020, Yarra Yering Chardonnay 2017, Yarra Yering Pinot Noir 2018, and Yarra Yering Underhill Shiraz 2016.

Wine is one of Victoria’s key tourism drawcards and plays an important role in regional economies.

Jobs at wineries, vineyards and cellar doors provide people with good jobs close to home, while serving as popular tourist attractions.

Boasting over 800 wineries and 21 distinctive wine regions, Victoria is home to more wineries than any other state with the exports generating about $141 million a year.

Economic growth and jobs minister Danny Pearson said the Victorian Government is promot-

ing Victorian wines at one of the most influential wine museums in the world, strengthening the state’s fame as a top-quality wine destination and attracting more people to Victoria.

“Victoria is home to many of our country’s most

celebrated winemakers, and this partnership is sharing their talent with the rest of the world and boosting their export opportunities,” he said.

The partnership with La Cite Du Vin follows the Wine Paris Vinexpo 2025 held from 10 to 12 Febru-

ary, where Victorian wines were also celebrated on a global stage.

As part of the two-year partnership, other Victorian wineries have the chance to be displayed in the future.

Fruits of their labour: Pinot Noir growing stronger than ever

By Chelsea Szabo

Upper Yarra Secondary College students have finished harvesting their fifth and biggest crop of grapes for the high school’s unique Junction Street wine label.

The vineyard was planted around 2019, and with the help of Oakridge winery, has introduced students to the art of vinedressing, and a potential job at one of the many wineries in the Yarra Valley.

VET teacher Marcus Cook, who leads vineyard operations at the highschool, said this year they have harvested over three tonnes of grapes.

“Previous years have been up to two [tonnes], so this is really a bit of a bumper crop for us,” Mr Cook said.

He says the ripper harvest can be attributed to the season, their effort to continually improve their pruning processes and the lack of frost damage.

Coldstream’s Oakridge Wines will take this year’s pinot noir grapes and turn them to wine at no cost to the secondary college.

Senior viticulturist at Oakridge Wines Steve Faulkner has been working with the highschool vineyard and said it is about showing students that viticulture is an industry they can enter into.

“I work with Marcus about teaching the students how to prune, teaching them how to weed, teaching them about vines and how they grow and how to get the best out of them for quality,” Mr Faulkner said.

“This whole program is about letting local kids know that the wine industry is a viable career opportunity in this area, because it’s vital to our industry that people keep coming through and keep having an interest.”

UYSC student Oliver did a taster of the course last year and decided to get involved this year.

“It’s interesting,” he said.

Seth got involved this year because his mates

were doing it and a family member was involved in its construction. Both students say they will probably continue with vinedressing after they finish school. They also said the best part is getting out of school. Last year, their Junction Street & Co 2023

Cook said they are “just excited to, I suppose, continue with this brand, because it’s a good feel for the community that we have a prod-

uct that comes from our school that ends up on a shelf”. UYSC would also like to level up their offering from a certificate II in wine industry operation to a certificate III. He thanks Oakridge for all their assistance.

Sarah Crowe at Yarra Yering Cellar Door. (Supplied)

Pinot Noir won the Best Small Batch Red Wine award at the 2024 Endeavour Group Yarra Valley Wine Show.

L-R: Oliver, Jarra and Seth holding the ‘fruits’ of their labour. (Chelsea Szabo: 460676)

$19k record for anniversary

By Callum Ludwig

Careful counting this week has revealed that the annual Eastern 80 charity bike ride has broken a record in 2025.

Over $19,000 has now been raised to top all previous editions of the event and boosting the event to over $110,000 in the last decade of rides.

Eastern 80 founder Norm Orr said this magical total has been achieved through lots of people and participation.

“A lot is involved and starts with setting up early morning then the official start for both riders including our youngest-ever entrants and walkers,” he said.

“After-ride activities included face-painting, music and the big raffle draw completed by Claire and Georgia who represented the Hospital appeal and participants and family and friends enjoyed the Alpine Hotel’s hospitality.”

Enjoy some of the best snaps from the day.

Out on the trail. (Supplied)

Starting out from the cafe.

Out in force for the Eastern 80.

Previous ambassador Ollie Carr (left) returned for the 10-year anniversary event.

All smiles.

Face painting proved popular after the event.

Celebrations after the event were playful.

Live music at the Alpine Hotel capped off the day.

Athenaeum’s history

By Joy Gothe

The building known today as the Athenaeum Theatre has served the community for many major events, some of those being, roller skating, balls, movies, meetings, and concerts including those given by Dame Nellie Melba.

Starting Life as a Mechanics Institute and Free Lending Library in 1888, it was the centre of cultural life for the Lilydale community.

By the 1890s, performers and travelling companies offered a variety of musical and dramatic entertainment never seen before, which included – dramatic plays, comedies, pantomimes, and vibrant music hall revues, along with Horticultural Shows, talks and lectures on every topic

imaginable.

Entertainment promoters brought to the people of Lilydale many unusual acts and artists, such as bellringers, illusionists, ventriloquists, elocutionists and even Wax Models from Madame Tussauds.

This was also a time to present to the public astonishing new science inventions such as the gramophone, cinematograph, x-ray images, the bioscope limelight and many other photographic wonders.

This of course led to the hall becoming a movie theatre, from the silent movies through to the talkies of the 1930s.

This period of time also saw the popularity rise

Clap hands for The Monkey

The Monkey Starring Theo James, Tatiana Maslany and Colin O’Brien MA15+

4.25/5

Based on a short story by Stephen King, The Monkey is a frightening, frequently funny and finely-crafted horror-comedy.

Twin brothers Hal and Bill Shelburn (both played by Theo James) contend with a cursed monkey toy that causes death and disaster around them.

James plays Hal as a kind, reserved man doing his best both as an estranged father and against a paranormal threat, but is also dementedly fun as Hal’s fanatical jerk brother Bill.

The Monkey is much sillier by design than writer-director Osgood Perkins’ prior film Longlegs, but the first act manages plenty of pathos even through the wacky heightened reality, exemplified by Tatiana Maslany as the twins’ morbid but warm mother Lois.

The grisly deaths are laughably absurd in a good way (though a couple are a little too over-the-top), and Perkins remains a master of steady, white-knuckle build-up.

Through the brothers’ fraught relationship and Bill’s bitterness, the monkey toy serves as

an effective metaphor for generational trauma and how we should come to terms with it and not hide from it or let it fester.

The one weak link is Colin O’Brien as Hal’s son Petey; while O’Brien gives a solid performance and their connection is purposefully written as distant, it just doesn’t give much for the viewer to latch onto.

I also can’t help but feel a sense of Chekhov’s Gun disappointment from Elijah Wood’s cameo as Ted; the film introduces a smarmy guru character who you’d want the monkey to kill, but Ted survives by the end.

As long as you like a strong dose of silly in your horror, The Monkey is a tense, well-acted watch full of dread and laughs, and is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

A classic coming-of-age

Book review of Looking for Alibrandi by Melina Marchetta

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the release of the iconic Australian film Looking for Alibrandi.

But this article is about the YA novel of the same name by Melina Marchetta, from which the film was adapted.

Published in 1992 as Marchetta’s debut novel, Looking for Alibrandi won the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) ‘Children’s Book of the Year Award: Older Readers’ in 1993. It remains a widely celebrated coming-of-age story today.

Set in 1990s Sydney, the story features Josephine Alibrandi, a 17-year-old Italian-Australian girl in her final year of high school.

Josie is ambitious and outspoken, and despises those Anglo-Australian students from elite socio-economic backgrounds who constantly discriminate against her Italian, working-class and single-parent family.

As if completing her HSC is not hard enough, Josie’s life is complicated by the sudden appearance of her estranged father Michael, as well as her relationships with two boys, high achiever John and rebellious Jacob. Worse, she is confronted with the secrets behind her grandmother Katia’s and her mother Christina’s lives as single women.

The book makes an interesting read today because there is no Internet and social media, no anxiety about climate change, and no emotional and psychological distress about gender and sexuality. Instead, life is all about family and relationships, and the formation of one’s identity is very much based on one’s interaction with and response to the demands of daily existence.

That is not to say the book is an easy read.

Quite the opposite: Josie’s reflections reveal the constant and complex struggles of growing up – how to map and maintain interpersonal

PASSION FOR PROSE

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

boundaries, how to navigate the murky waters of love, loyalty and trust, and how to decipher the ambiguous senses of words such as ‘self’, ‘belonging’ and ‘loss’.

One of the highlights in the book is Josie’s relationship with John, who very much reminds this reviewer of the character Neil Perry in the 1989 film Dead Poets Society.

The author delves into the many ways in which Josie and John feel connected with each other, slowly deepening their friendship even when Josie is developing a romantic interest in Jacob.

This makes what happens to John near the end of the story particularly devastating, both to Josie and to us as readers.

Meanwhile, in the book, the outcome of Josie’s relationship with Jacob is delicately handled and becomes another milestone in her journey of selfdiscovery.

In comparison, Josie’s relationship with Michael is richly explored, and her love for Christina is fierce and heart-warming.

In turn, Katia’s backstory is beautifully explained and offers a rare glimpse into Australia’s Italian migrant communities in the 1950s.

If you love Looking for Alibrandi as a film, please read the book as well.

Through the eyes of teenager Josie, you will find insights into a multicultural Australia that deserves understanding and respect.

of the Fancy Dress, Bachelor and Spinster Balls.

After World War II, dances became really popular with jazz bringing yet another style of music and entertainment to the region.

In 1946, the town held its own Victory Ball at the end of the war, which was followed by many Debutante and Hunt Club Balls.

To celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, the town held a Coronation Ball in June 1953.

From the 1960s onwards, teenage dances became popular, with the new youth culture, Rock and Roll had arrived.

The Athenaeum saw many exciting performers of the era, such as Diana Trask, Ernie Sigley

CARTOON

and his Amateur Hour, Colin Cook, Grantley Dee, The Twilights, with Glen Shorrock, The Valentines with Bon Scott, and The Masters Apprentices with Jim Keays and Glenn Wheatley. By the 1970s, dances were so popular Lilydale won the right to host Battle of the Bands in 1972. I have only given you a small taste of all the weird and wonderful events that have occurred in this fabulous building, so the next time you visit or walk past just think about what wonderful stories and secrets are hidden within.

If you are interested in discovering more about the history of Lilydale’s buildings and past visit our website at lilydalehistorical.com.au or email: info@lilydalehistorical.com.au

Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Moon Over Buffalo

The lights dimmed; the audience prepared but the curtains did not rise.

Two productions coming Kemp’s curtain call

A scuffle was heard at the entrance, then a group of actors were seen running sown the aisles in period costume and sword fighting all the way to the stage where they had a swordfight on the stairs leading to the stage.

It was the actors playing Cyrano de Bergerac.

The setting was Buffalo New York in a small theatre. The curtains opened to a scene off stage where there were two levels.

It was furnished as a living room and as the show is a delightful farce it had five doors which were used to full advantage.

The leading man was George Hay, played by Brett Hyland giving an outstanding performance particularly when he was drunk.

A terrific performer and loved by the audience.

His wife, Charlotte Hay, was played by Audrey-Maeve Barker, who was good balance to Brett and also gave a stirring performance as the wronged wife but in view of the fact a leading director from Hollywood was coming to see the show and perhaps cast George and Charlotte in his current film.

Ethel was the deaf grandma and played by Julie Arnold. A wonderful performance particularly when she did not have her hearing aid in.

Rosalind, Ethel’s granddaughter and daughter of George and Charlotte was played by Francesca Carl.

A young lady not interested in the stage nor the boyfriend her parents chose but her current boyfriend, a complete nerd.

Another wonderful performance and her scenes were a sheer delight.

The boyfriend Howard was played by Mark Cluning. Mark really captured the role as en-

visaged and giving a great performance.

Paul, the stage manager and Rosalind’s ex was played by Josh Mitchell who certainly added to the high standard set and was enjoyed by the audience.

Richard, the wealthy lawyer who was wooing Charlotte was played by Mark Crowe. Mark captured the role with professionalism giving a good interpretation of such a character.

Then there was Eileen, who George not only had an affair but Eileen was played by Madeline Connolly who gave a terrific performance as the wronged young lady of the tale. All in all a wonderful evening of comedy and at the cost of repeating oneself the use of doors was amazing, the timing was spot on and as one door closed another opened immediately. The other comedy bits were spot on and a very successful evening of comedy was produced by Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre. The Round Theatre Life in Plastic

A Christie Whelan Browne Production Christine Whelan Browne takes us from girlhood to womanhood and motherhood trough pop songs, anecdotes and a few surprising costume changes.

This brand new, deeply personal, bubble gum pop cabaret is a dazzling array of disco hits and a sparkling celebration of sisterhood, because girls just want to have fundamental tights.

• Season: Friday 28 February at 7.30pm.

Plastics, they’re everywhere

How often are you overwhelmed by the amount of waste your household generates on a weekly basis?

With three dedicated bins you would think there would be no problem.

But there is a problem of what to do with the ever growing plastic waste and how to dispose of it.

Australians are the biggest consumers of single-use plastic waste globally, producing an average of 59kg of plastic waste per person a year.

The more plastic that we use, the more fossil fuels we need, and in turn, we exacerbate climate change.

And while plastics disposal is not the only waste issue with E-waste, food waste, textile and fast fashion waste, plastic pollution remains of major concern because of its longevity.

It can take hundreds if not thousands of years to break down and tiny particles now contaminate air, water and food with unknown long term health effects.

Plastics have been around for a long time but it was during the post war boom that they became a staple in everyday life replacing glass, metal and wood in packaging, household goods and construction.

And lately there has been an explosion in the use of single use of cheap, disposable plastics. You call it a gift, this plastic that surrounds you. You wrap it around everything, and throw it, carelessly, into the spaces that could have been free. But now, it’s us.

We are the plastic, we breathe it in.

Excerpt: We Are The Plastic by Shivanee Ramlochan

In this age of online shopping we constantly face the problem of how to dispose of not just cardboard but a variety of plastics of various

WOORILLA WORDS

grades, some like the bubble wrap and polystyrene beads used for cushioning fragile items.

But it’s not just online shopping that contributes to the growing worldwide problem.

There is an over packaging of most supermarket items.

Even fresh produce is now more likely to be encased in a plastic container.

Similarly non-food items are packaged purely for ease of display.

And then there’s the convenience factor.

It’s so much easier to grab pre -packaged fruit than to select from a container of loose ones.

A roll of cling film is found in most kitchen drawers and it’s the easy go to item to store food, cover leftovers and many other uses.

Thin and contaminated with food residue and, unlike hard plastics, it has a low market value, so there is little incentive to recycle.

And then there’s the out of sight out of mind attitude, and why so much ends up in landfill.

I wonder what it would be like

To live in a world where plastic does not reign—

Where we could breathe without choking

On the weight of the things we’ve made.

Excerpt: Plastic by David Berman

There are now five plastic accumulation zones in the world’s oceans, the largest The Great Pacific Patch is located halfway between Hawaii and

California and is three times the size of France.

It’s estimated that 1.15 to 2.41 million tonnes of plastic are entering the ocean each year from rivers, eventually breaking down into microplastics which end up in the food chain and in our bodies.

We call it the patch, but it’s not fabric, it’s not something you sew or mend, it’s plastic, breaking down in the ocean, tangled in the currents.

The sea holds it in her mouth

Excerpt: Abigail Chabitnoy, Great Pacific Garbage Patch

It is estimated that about 148 kilograms of plastic is discarded per person annually, it seems obvious that reducing plastic use is needed, as well as improving recycling and developing biodegradable alternatives.

Several countries have already successfully taken steps to ban, tax, or reduce plastic waste.

It may surprise you to see that leading the way are countries like Rwanda. Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, is one of the cleanest cities in the world.

But plastics are a billion dollar business tied to the fossil fuel industry which carries a lot of political influence and lobbying power.

Waste has always been a human challenge, but our present economy is based on overproduction and a disposable culture and this is most visible in the plastic waste we are surrounded by.

The following poem draws our attention to the wasteful consumerism that leads to the invasive nature of plastic waste in our surroundings. It is the wrapping of the world, invisible but there, clinging to everything, a second skin we don’t see but are shaped by.

Plastic by Julia Copus

There are grass root groups aware of the problems that plastics cause and some are making conscious decisions to curb discretional spending and avoid having to dispose of plastic packaging.

At first this may be seen as not good news for small businesses.

The key is to rethink how businesses can make money—focusing on longevity, services, efficiency, and sustainability rather than sheer volume of sales. It’s possible to reduce consumption while keeping businesses profitable and people employed.

It’s already happening with companies like Patagonia encouraging and providing customers with the means of mending and repairing.

However, despite the environmental concerns, plastic play a crucial role in many areas where its properties—like durability, flexibility, and lightweight nature—offer benefits that alternatives can’t easily match: healthcare and medicine, renewable energy, space exploration, electronic innovation.

In the end waste is a critical global issue requiring coordinated efforts from individuals, businesses, and governments. Just addressing one aspect of the plastics problem in our daily habits is a step in the right direction.

Plastic has infiltrated both the environment and our consciousness, becoming a symbol of consumerism and waste.

The dreams of our ancestors were never wrapped in plastic.

But we’ve become used to it— to the flicker of synthetic promises, to the rustle of bags in the wind.

Our future is moulded, shaped in the plastic that never fades.

Excerpt: Melissa R. Sipin Plastic Dreams

YOUR OWN RESORT WITH VIEWS TO DIE FOR

YOUR OWN RESORT WITH VIEWS TO DIE FOR AND GREAT HORSE FACILITIES

PRIVATELY located at the end of a quiet street, this property affords you a lifestyle that many can only dream of.

Unparalleled for location and with amazing views, the infrastructure for this property is almost and endless list. A magnificent offering for both family and those with equine pursuits.

Built and maintained to an exacting standard the property is an entertainers’ paradise and great for family living.

The Residence: 4 bedrooms, 1 study, 2 bathrooms.

A quality finished home that includes a luxurious master suite with fitted walk in robe and ensuite. All rooms are positioned perfectly to take advantage of the stunning surrounds and picturesque views. Finished to a high standard you will be impressed CBUS system throughout and the automated everyday items, floor heating to the marble bathrooms, the jarrah cabinetry in the kitchen showcasing the Glem double ovens, Miele induction cook tops, new microwave and Caesar Stone benches. The library is, in the agents opinion, the best room in the house (and there are so many choices!), featuring leather inlaid jarrah desk and a secret passageway. Multiple living zones offer choices with one offering a local stone wall and new wood heater.

Entertain in Style: Indoors and Out.

The lower level of the home is all about entertaining and enjoyment with an inbuilt bar, dishwasher, games room and a home cinema that will put gold class to shame. Outside features a huge undercover decking featuring automated blinds, from where you can access the inground pool, change room, toilet and outdoor shower, and a separate sauna. You can have fabulous BBQs all year round from the large decking - ideal for parties and another opportunity to take in the incredible view!

Equine Infastructure:

Full sized arena 60 x 20 with viewing platform. 4 stables. Hot and cold water. Designated shed with washing machine, tack store and food store. Washing line. Tractor and Hay shed. 10 paddocks, many with post and rail fencing, all watered from spring fed dam.

Notable Features:

20 glorious acres with beautiful established gardens and trees offering 3 sealed driveways offering not only ample parking but the opportunity to turn your truck or float around without having to back up, automated gates (one gate does not work), 3 car garage with interior access, huge workshop, shed, solar, generator, wood store, 2 dams and a Billabong and neighbouring creek along a boundary,

basketball area, CCTV, aluminium windows, steel and concrete stumps, attic ladder roof accessibility, refrigerated cooling, ducted

heating, a split system, and a wood fire. Come and see this magnificent property for yourself, you will be impressed. If you think

11 Brodrick Road, Macclesfield ticks all your boxes on paper, wait until you view it in person. We are proud to show you.

BUYER CONFIDENCE GROWS IN THE OUTER EAST

THE luxury of browsing the housing market is predicted to change as buyer confidence grows in the outer east, influenced by the first interest rate cut in four years.

Bell Real Estate agent Samantha Scott said a “flurry of buyers” have returned to the Dandenong Ranges and eastern suburbs area, with a viewing to selling turnaround of seven days.

“Up here in the hills, days on market were around 40, but we’ve just sold two properties, in that under a million mark, in seven days,” she said.

Even prior to the Reserve Bank of Australia announcement on Tuesday 18 February, Ms Scott said the media speculation garnered a shift in property offers and inspection rates.

Ms Scott said the increase in buyer numbers has meant some properties have seen three, four or five offers, as well as over 100 inspections in two weeks which is “huge for up here”.

Properties reaching 60 to 90 days on the market have also been gaining traction, seeing a rush of interest.

“There’s a lot of stock on the market, with all the agencies up here. A lot of it has been on since before Christmas, and a lot of it is now just moving.

“We’ve got offers on probably 20 per cent of our stock lists that have been around for a while, but now all of a sudden the confidence of people with the interest rates heading the right direction, and thinking, now’s the time to make a move and it is, if you’re buying and selling in the same market, it’s quite relative.

“The thing you’ve got to remember about the hills, and the further out in the suburbs we cover, is the inner suburbs are starting to move quite quickly, and it filters out to us. So now is still a really good time to buy and sell in the area.”

Although buying and selling has been steady over the last year, Ms Scott said it has

been a welcome shift in the market.

“It’s been really frustrating with the unknown. There were a couple of months last year and then the start of this year of being in the unknown because we haven’t had an interest rate go backwards for over four years.

“There was still a lot of trepidation and people trying to hold out and put their lives on hold. It’s really exciting for the people out there looking for properties, and then also for the people out there who want to make a move or change their lifestyle and sell their properties.”

But with the movement and interest in properties, Ms Scott said the luxury of house hunting and taking time to purchase will fade.

“If you like something, buy it, they’re moving really quickly. Now you have to be a bit more conscious of preparation, and they won’t have

WELCOME TO SIMON COHEN

VIEW.COM.AU, Australia’s premier property research and free listings platform, is excited to welcome Simon Cohen - one of Australia’s most respected real estate professionals - as its Property Expert and ambassador.

With 20 years of industry experience, Cohen is the founder and director of Cohen Handler, Australia’s largest residential buyer’s agency, and a trusted advisor to his clients. Known for securing record-breaking deals, he has built a reputation as one of the country’s most influential figures in real estate. Cohen is also widely recognised as a star of Amazon Prime’s Luxe Listings Sydney and a judge on Channel 7’s Dream Home.

In his new role as view.com.au’s Property Expert and ambassador, Cohen will be providing a key voice across property media, offering expert insights and market analysis to help Australians navigate real estate with confidence. He will feature as a property expert on Seven West Media’s news and entertainment platforms, produce exclusive content across view. com.au, ACM publications, and Seven West Media assets including Seven News and 7News.com.au and all of this amplified via social media assets. These assets combined have the potential to reach a 17 million* strong monthly national audience.

“As someone who lives and breathes

real estate, I’m excited to partner with view. com.au to help Australians make smarter property decisions,“ said Cohen.

“View.com.au is not just changing the way people research and find property, it’s disrupting the way agents find vendors, and I’m thrilled to share my knowledge, experience, and passion to help guide buyers, sellers, and agents alike.“

Antony Catalano, Chairman of View Media Group, praised Cohen’s appointment for view.com.au, saying,

“Simon Cohen is one of the most trusted and knowledgeable voices in Australian real estate. His expertise, credibility, and deep industry connections align perfectly with our mission to empower Australians with the best property insights and provide a complete view of the property market. We’re thrilled to have him on board as we expand our reach to Australian audiences through our media partnerships with Seven West Media and ACM.”

As part of the view.com.au family, Cohen will also be sharing his personal journey in real estate, offering insights into building a thriving career, and providing valuable advice on branding, negotiation, and client success - helping agents elevate their business in a competitive market.

Stay tuned for exclusive industry insights from one of the real estate industry’s best.

the luxury of spending weeks shopping around because houses are going to start selling,” she said.

Her advice to buyers: have pre-approval or financing ready and if selling their own house, ensure it is prepared to go on the market.

For sellers, in the Hills especially, April is the best month, with autumn providing a beautiful backdrop for potential buyers.

“Our April sales are traditionally our best month, and anything that is really well presented, immaculate and priced right in the market (will sell),” Ms Scott said.

Buying an established property, Ms Scott said “you’re really winning in this market”, with some “people still a bit intimidated by renovation, unless it’s priced really well”.

“It will do the flip, if you can get your hands

on a block of land, especially a block of land with a permit, that will become more desirable as time goes on as well,” she said.

Bell Real Estate, being one of the largest networks in the Yarra Ranges, covering from Montrose to Yarra Glen to Gembrook, Ms Scott said “booming” suburbs like Montrose, Kilsyth, Upwey and Belgrave and affordable market areas like Cockatoo, are selling really well.

“If you’re selling, the presentation, have everything, what you’ve got, looking as best as it possibly can will ensure a quick and successful sale, and when you’re buying, be pre-approved and have your ducks in a row because the market’s going to start moving a lot faster.”

HOME FOCUS

WELCOME TO ‘FERNBROOK’

IMAGINE a place not far away, but a million miles from all the stresses of city living. A fully renovated, modern home among the gum trees with space for all the family, and only a couple of minutes from Cockatoo, a picturesque country town that is big enough for a supermarket, but small enough that the locals have time to stop and chat.

Less than 50km from central Melbourne, in the Dandenong Ranges, is Fernbrook. A stylish 4 bedroom home with a full kitchen, laundry and two and a half bathrooms.

You will love living at Fernbrook. Whether it is having a barbecue on the tree-top deck overlooking the garden, kicking a football on one of the lawns or perhaps you prefer the firepit and conversation circle in the front garden. There is also a wood fireplace and, nestled at the bottom of a beautifully landscaped native garden, a burbling stream surrounded by giant tree ferns. You can wander down to the stream for a picnic under the pergola or even dangle your toes in the water and look for fish from the bridge. There is something to discover around every corner at Fernbrook.

Kids and nature lovers will love the bird life with kookaburras, rosellas, king parrots (hand feed) , cockatoos and honeyeaters are always around. And if you’re lucky, you may even spot Charlie, our resident wombat, or Spike, our local echidna.

Inside the house your every need is catered for, with 4 bedrooms, the master bedroom with full en suite, giant wardrobe with a clever builtin makeup vanity. The three further bedrooms are comfortable in size, built-in robes and the fourth would make the ideal office for those that can work from home.

The open plan includes a kitchen with an integrated breakfast bar that is fully equipped including Ceasar stone bench tops, a pantry, an electric induction stovetop and under bench oven.

You may wish to snuggle up in front of the slow combustion wood fire that even doubles as a pizza or bakery oven plus you have the comfort of ducted central heating.

The private garden wonderland of 2,213 sqm ( half an acre) has a wood shed, ample under-house walk-in storage and a double carport.

The entire area abounds in beautiful forests and forest walks, including the acclaimed Wright Forest Bushland Reserve.

Cockatoo Country Market is the first Saturday of every month, and Mt Burnett Observatory is just down the road. And right through the middle of town runs Puffing Billy. If you listen at the right times, you can hear his cheery whistle from Fernbrook as he steams along between Gembrook and Emerald.

Gembrook is just 6km from Cockatoo and boasts ‘The Independent’ Argentinian restaurant (highly recommended), interesting shops and Bunyip State Park. Just 6km in the other direction lies Emerald, with its cafes, restaurants, award-winning bakery, Emerald Lake Park and ‘Pick-Your-Own’ berry farms. And beyond that, of course, the entire Dandenong Ranges is there for you, with the famous townships of Belgrave, Sassafras and Olinda, celebrated gardens, quirky shops, stunning forests and beautiful drives.

So come and get away from it all at Fernbrook! You can book your inspection or see you at the open day.

CHARMINGHOMEON1289SQM

Thischarminghomeofferstheperfectblendofcomfort,spaceandconvenience.Ideal foranyoneseekinga peacefulretreatwithmodernlivingamenities.Featuresinclude 2 livingareas,a Potbelly fireplace,GDH,S/System,secondlivingzonedownstairswitha 4thbedroom/teenager’sretreat/dedicatedhomeofficeoption.Outdoorsincludean entertainingdeck,a fullyfencedyard,a largeunder-houseworkshop/storageareaanda storageunitgreatforwoodorbikes.SituatedwithinwalkingdistancetovibrantBelgrave

JanBrewster 0409558805

AUCTIONat7pmWed.19/03/25onsite

Morethanjustanopportunityfor aquieterlifestyleor afashionabletree-change,thisisan incrediblyrarechancetoplaceyourselfona ‘highpoint’ofthemuchsoughtafterKallista ridge.Standingproudon3 ACrESwithsweepingviewsofSilvanDam& Warburton ranges.Featuringanentertainingareaadjacenttotheswimmingpoolwithspa,wallsof glass,bluestonefeaturedfireside,familyroom,rumpusroom,stunningnearnewkitchen, internalspa,longsweepingdriveway&aMASSIVEopengarage &workshop/storage.

GrantSkipsey 0418528102 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

AMAZINGVIEWSON1435SQM

AlisonBarkley 0494175410

‘Birtledean’ -anamazingopportunityforlifestylechangers,setin aquietlocationwithan amazinggarden,studioandplentyofcaraccommodation.Otherfeaturesincludehighqualityfixtures &fittings,wood fire,centralkitchenwitha Neffstove.Bespokevanity& leadlight,timberfloors,double-glazeddoors& windows, retractablefly screens,concrete stumps,new roof,GDH,split system,fans,circulardriveway,man/lady cavewithpotbelly &bar,a chookhaven,woodshed,water tanksx 4, greenhouseandallfencedtoo. 2 A 1 B 3 C

MickDolphin 0429684522

AnthonyIorlano 0494142438

CHARMING FAMILY HOME

THIS delightful 3-bedroom home offers a rare opportunity for both families and investors alike.

Positioned on a spacious 838m² block, this property boasts a thoughtful layout and an abundance of character.

Each of the three generously sized bedrooms comes with its own private ensuite, ensuring convenience and comfort for everyone in the family.

The two separate living areas include an open-plan kitchen and living room, creating a welcoming space for everyday living.

A cozy lounge awaits with stunning cathedral ceilings for those moments of relaxation. The home features warm timber floors in the family room and kitchen, while

carpet throughout adds a fresh touch.

Climate control is made easy with split systems in every bedroom, ensuring yearround comfort.

Outside, enjoy a sunny courtyard perfect for outdoor gatherings or a quiet retreat - fenced for your furry friends.

Plus, a lock-up garage makes this the ideal place to call home. The home is ideally located opposite the scenic Yarra River and is just a short walk to local schools, shops, and public transport - offering excellent convenience for family living.

Move-in ready and full of potential, this charming home is waiting for its next owner to enjoy everything it has to offer.

Spacious1920’sCharacterHomeonExpansive3300sqmBlock

Setonover3300sqmofprimeland,thischarming1920’scharacterhomepresentsanincredible opportunityforlargefamilylivingina highlysought-afterlocation.Inside,theformalentrysetsthe toneforthespace,openingintogenerouslivingareasidealforrelaxingorhostingguests.A cosy, separateloungewithlargepicturesquewindowsprovidesa peacefulspottoenjoythelushgardens. With 5spaciousbedroomsand 2bathrooms,thehome’soriginalfeatures—suchasornateceilings, cornices,andhardwoodfloors—addtimelesselegance.Theheartofthehomeliesintheopen-plan kitchenanddiningarea,where alargebreakfastbarandbutler’spantryensureamplespacefor cooking.Thisisanexceptionalopportunitytosecurea characterhomeona generousblockina highlydesirablearea.

RebeccaDoolan

SereneRetreat- PerfectWeekenderorProjectHome

Perfectfor aweekendgetawayor apeacefulfull-timeretreat,thischarminghomeoffers2 bedroomsand 1and1/2bathroomswithanadditionalbedroomdownstairs,offering aversatile spaceidealfora teenager’sroomorofficespace.Theopenplanlivingandkitchenareahasa lovelywoodfirewhichiscosy.Thefloorplanisopenandflowsontoa largedeck,providingthe perfectspottorelaxandunwind.Wanderthroughyourprivaterainforestsettinganddiscoveryour ownpieceofnature,withtheYarraRiverjustbeyondyourboundary.Theabundantbirdlifeand tranquilatmospherewillhelpyoufeelateaseinyourquietsanctuary.Thispropertyofferspotential forthosewhowanttoaddtheirpersonaltouchandmakeittheirown.Thisisanopportunitynottobe missedwithallthisonofferjusta shortdrivefromtheRedwoodForestandtownshipofWarburton.

MagicalRetreatonOver 1Acre,AdjoiningtheYarraRiver Nestledamidstmajesticredwoodsandgumtrees,thisbreathtaking3 bedroomhomeoffers aunique blendofrusticcharm,modernstyle,andtranquilliving.Thestylishandmodernkitchenisa dream foranychef,completewitha gascooktop,dishwasher,andplentyofroomforentertaining.The diningroomfeaturesstunninglargewindowsthatinvitetheoutsidein,capturingthebeautyofthe gardenandcreatinga sereneatmosphere.Threegenerouslysizedbedroomsoneincludingbuilt-in robesand astudynookinthethirdbedroom,offeringaflexiblespaceforworkorleisure.Theneat, originalbathroomboasts aclassicclawfootbath.Outside,theimpressive ¾verandahoverlooksthe establishedgardens,providingtheperfectspotforrelaxationorentertaining.Thepropertyspans over 1and1/4acres(5059sq.m)ofland. Adamcompletesthetranquil,privatesetting.

FamilySpaceina FantasticLocation Offeringspaceandcomfortinsideandoutthisneatfamilyhomeistheidealspotforthegrowing familytoliveandenjoy.Offering 3bedroomsallwithbuiltinrobes,plusa spaciousfamily/lounge areawithamplespaceforeveryone.Theopenplankitcheniswellappointedandhasplentyof benchandcupboardspace.Thewholefamilywilllovetheoutsidewithover1650sqmofland toenjoy- thereisplentyofspaceforthekidsandpetstospreadout.Establishedgardensand numerousfruittreesanda largelockupgaragecompletethissuperbproperty.A wellmaintained andwelllookedafterpropertyina greatlocation,just ashortwalktothebusstopandtheYarra River.

DavidCarroll M 0419539320

30HazelwoodRoad,EastWarburton

53OldWarburtonHighway,SevilleEast

A RARE GEM IN A GREAT LOCATION

SET on a beautifully landscaped 983m² (approx.) low-maintenance block, this charming character home offers the perfect balance of serenity, style, and convenience. Nestled in the highly sought-after location of Sassafras, this property features a stunning rear veranda, perfect for relaxing or entertaining while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

The property boasts meticulously designed gardens and a cozy fire pit area, ideal for gathering with loved ones or unwinding in nature. Inside, the home shines with polished floorboards and a bright, open feel throughout.

The heart of the home is its spectacular kitchen, equipped with modern appliances and ample storage, while the bathroom offer a touch of luxury with contemporary finishes and stylish fixtures.

Designed for comfort year-round, this home features split-system heating and cooling, ducted heating, and a gas log fire, ensuring you stay cozy no matter the season.

Enjoy the quiet, private atmosphere of this premium location, all within easy reach of local amenities, shopping, and dining options. Whether you’re looking for the perfect downsizer or an ideal Airbnb investment, this property is perfect for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle without compromising on convenience.

Don’t miss this opportunity to secure a property that embodies both comfort and elegance in one of Sassafras’s most coveted spots.

SharynChandler

PUZZLES

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

ACROSS

1 Fugitive (7)

5 Fierce wind (7)

9 Creator’s protection (9)

10 Shoals (5)

11 Verse (6)

12 Advantageously (8)

14 Instrumental work (6)

15 Area on the body consisting of pelvis and upper thigh bones (4)

19 Merit (4)

20 Surpass (6)

24 Pseudonyms (3-5)

25 Very small pool of rainwater (6)

27 Woody plants (5)

28 Everlasting (9)

29 Stableman (7)

30 Show (7)

DOWN

1 Formula (6)

2 City and port in Italy (6)

3 Studio (8)

4 Physical and mental discipline (4)

5 Online metropolitan guide (10)

6 Bottle for the table (6)

7 Superimposed (8)

8 Writer of essays (8)

13 Warden of wildlife on an estate (10)

16 Discharge (6)

17 Royal family member (8)

18 Leave by will to another (8)

21 Hanging tuft of threads (6)

22 Meaning modifier (6)

23 Michael Jackson song (4,2)

26 Impel (4)

No. 258

No. 226

Top Warby scores

By Ron Hottes

The V.V.Vs:

So, on this day, folks, with a small field of seven playing popular Committee person, Merilyn Macdonald posted the best 9-hole result ever since the V.V.V. Competition began. Merilyn’s 25 points was not only super impressive, but did not feature in the daily results. Merilyn only decided on the morning to play, and her card was marked by her husband, not one of the other Ladies. Still, well done, Merilyn. The winner, therefore, with a total that was pretty special anyway, was Suzanne Barratt, who recorded a fine 18 points. Both girls deserve congratulations for those results. Of course, no NTPs were achieved.

Wednesday 19 February, Stableford:

With conditions perfect for good scoring, the following result comes as no surprise. Glenn Forbes won out on the day by posting a healthy 38-point result. Good shooting, Glenn. The daily runner-up was the consistent Rob Ferguson, who recorded a 36-point score. The perennial Alan-Johnston was ‘countbacked’ out of that runner-up voucher, even though he also posted a 36-point result. The ball rundown reached to 34 only. Lucky NTP winners were as follows: Ian Cranston (3rd), Noel Cross (for a lovely tee-shot on the tough 5th), Junior Kempton (9th) and special mention to the lovely Annalies Duivenvoorden, who picked up NTPs on both the 12th and the 15th. Well done, young lady.

Twilight: on a delightful afternoon/evening weatherwise, it was always on the cards that someone would conquer the tough back nine. Ben Lever did so, winning the top voucher by accruing 19 very solid points. Good work, Panda. Young tyro Manny Humphris, took home the runner-up prize posting an 18-point result eclipsing his father’s recent efforts. Vicki Hottes came in 3rd, also with 18 impressive points. Balls extended only down to 17. The 3 NTPs went home with Danny Fox (12th), Dale Horrobin (15th) and Paul Kennedy (17th).

Saturday 22 February, Stroke and 2nd round of the 2025 Club Championships:

Once again a big field, on a hot day, meant that there would be three grades.

Ironically, the hottest of those grade winners was Chris Leighton, who returned a superb Nett 66 to win the A-Grade voucher. Ben Lever, in a rare vein of good form, was the A-Grade runner-up with a fine Nett 68.

But, in B-Grade, Lee Creedy matched Chris’s Nett 66 to share the honours. Good work, Lee. Steuart Hawke, with a welcome return to form, was the runner-up with a solid Nett 68. And finally in C-Grade, Scott Atkinson’s Nett 67 just pipped Jodie Burge’s 68 for the two daily vouchers.

Balls extended to 72 in both the A and B-grade, but got all the way down to Nett 76 in C-Grade.

The NTP winners on this day were Andy Lockey (3rd), Michael Batten (5th), Jake Dummett (9th) and La Pinkster (15th).

A quick summary of the Championship standings after Round 2 is:

Michael Batten is making a good fist of defending his Open title, with two steady rounds, allowing him to lead the chasing pack, including young Seth Spenceley and multiple previous winner, Paul Mason, by plenty (Unfortunately, at the time of completion of this article, both B and C-Grade standings were not available.)

In other results, President Nursey has the Open title all wrapped-up again. Georgie Houniet and Deborah are neck and neck in B-Grade, with it all coming down to next week’s final round. Commissioner Macdonald has the C-Grade title already done and dusted.

Manny Humphris and Jake Troyahn are having a gigantic battle for the Junior championship.

Finally, Steuart Hawke has made a bright start in his quest to be the Senior’s champion.

What a show as golfers take to the tee

By David Waters

Battle recommenced on the open Eastern Golf Course. After negotiating the partial closure of Victoria Road, the combatants all arrived ready for the 7.30am start. A pleasing site and perhaps unexpected was the manicured, green fairways. Well, they were appreciated, unexpected when surrounding hills and paddocks were dry and brown.

A briefing on local rules set the tone and players were sent to the four points of the compass. Some had to trek up a few hills, others just had a long march to the hit off zones. Overseers in hot air balloons sailed colourfully and majestically by as we began smiting the little white defenceless balls. Pelicans in the pond by the tenth tee were happy to watch. Not one offered or needed to retrieve balls. Lucky for them and golfers. The kangaroos that inhabit the area did not intrude at all. There were no recorded snake sightings to upset concentration. Whew!!

As the day wore on, matches were sorting out who played consistently or erratically. Some players held the lead all day. Erratic players changed the lead with every hole and went the distance. Tentative putting, the bane of all golfers is the undoing of many good rounds and two shots in bunkers helps no one either.

The biggest winner for the day was Darryl Maher, (Heritage team manager) beating his Gardiners Run opponent 9 up with 7 to play. Only six squared matches were recorded. Joe Sykes (Box Hill team manager) slam dunked his pitch to win the last hole and the match. His amazed opponent had only a gimme to halve, but Joe didn’t want that.

Warburton Golf Club results. (File)

Heat postpones game

By Elly Byrne

With both teams headed for finals it’s a great result for the Yarra Junction Bowling Club this year.

Yarra Junction’s game against Mooroolbark for the last round of the competition was set to decide the ladder placement for finals.

Currently in third spot by a whisker the Eagles were determined to win away and hoping for a second position.

Although lower on the ladder, Mooroolbark put up a good fight and Junction worked hard for the win to come out on top 77 / 54 with all rinks winning.

Only five points separated a couple of rinks towards the end of the game but third spot was retained with Croydon gaining second spot by just one point.

The first of the finals will now to be played against Healesville at YJBC this Tuesday and with a home ground advantage the Eagles hope to progress in the finals series to gain promotion for next season.

The weekend side’s home first final also against a Mooroolbark side was highly anticipated and due to hot weather forecasts an early start was scheduled.

The CFA declared a fire ban day throwing plans into chaos.

Being in high risk fire zone, Yarra Junction Bowls Club has opted along with a few other clubs not to play on a fire ban day.

With some players in both teams unavailable for a rescheduled Sunday game, teams were changed, phone calls were made and the club were ready for Sunday.

Sunday was then declared a Total Fire ban day setting the whole finals series off course.

The club waits to be advised of when the final will be played, but it’s assumed next Saturday at home will be the day.

Hopefully a win will see the Eagles through to the next round against Heathmont to continue the successful journey the team has had so far this season.

The President’s Day tournament set for Good Friday is filling fast. Any clubs wishing to enter a team should contact Ian Club 0419 685 425 ASAP.

This week’s Horse Talk...

By Anita Prowse

Because it coincides most closely with the process of interrupting the life cycle of the bot-fly, the optimal time of year to worm your horses is between the middle and late autumn.

Because the lifespan of a bot fly is twelve months, treating it once a year will have the effect of breaking that life cycle (and will, over time, reduce the number of bot fly populations).

Because the whole population of bot flies will be within your horse by the middle of autumn or early winter, you will be able to eliminate all of the bots on your property with a single dose of a boticide dewormer (ivermectin, abamectin, or moxidectin).

It is possible that you will not be able to eliminate all of the bot flies if you deworm your horses too early in the autumn.

Bot insects are frequently present far into the autumn, and they lay their eggs on the coats of the horses.

If you deworm your horse on 1 March, there will be bot flies, and following that, there will be bot eggs and larvae that arrive after the treatment and will live within your horse for the entire year.

Consequently, if your horses are in good condition, you should postpone the deworming that is performed in autumn for a little bit longer.

Before beginning the deworming process, you should wait until the evenings become cooler and the bot flies vanish.

Additionally, you should make sure that the dewormer you purchase is effective against bots; otherwise, your efforts will be useless.

If your horses require treatment at this time, you should do so; nevertheless, you should be sure to target bot flies once again in the early winter.

When it comes to the “first frost” approach, it simply implies that the temperature is low enough for the bots to be done.

The frosts that occur in Australia are not cold enough to kill any worms that are buried in the ground; in order to do so, they require days that are consistently below zero degrees (think of winters in Northern Europe or the United States).

Pink Ribbon Day at Warburton Bowls Club

By Garry Lewis

The Midweek Warburton 1 side commences its finals campaign this week on Tuesday. Warburton’s Midweek team played the top side, Heathmont 2, away last Tuesday in their final home and away game before the finals. With several key players unavailable the Burras struggled overall before going down, 46 shots to 67.

Despite the loss, they still finished in second place on the ladder.

Hence, they will play Heathmont 2 away again this week in the first week of the finals.

The Burras are determined to improve on their last performance.

Rink scores were as follows: M. Stoessiger 14/ 23, C. Boland 13/ 19 and T. Heyward 19/ 25.

The Wednesday Night Barefoot Bowls Jack Attack Competition continued with most games decided by a few shots overall.

Results included: Bowls to the Wall 14 d ABC Bowls 12, Gunners 22 d Thomos 6, Giddy Gout 13 d Giffords Gang All Stars 11, 1 Wright & 2 Wrongs 19 d Chicks with Bowls 8, Burra Boys 15 d 3Ds 13, Wessie Wonders 21 d Bowl-O-Chicks 9, Pensioners 16 d Can’t Remember 15 and Three Stooges 22 d La La’s 14.

Shane Franks from the ‘1 Wright & 2 Wrongs’ Team won the prize for the first bowler to touch the jack.

Well done, Shane, and a big thank you for providing prizes for the raffle each week. With one round to go before the Finals’ Evening, all sides continue to juggle for positions on the ladder.

The Men’s and Ladies’ Singles Club Championships will be decided this Friday 28 February commencing 4pm.

Chris Lord vs Terry Heyward in the Mens and Jade Muratore vs Aimee Dostie in the Ladies.

Members are encouraged to come along and support all these fine bowlers.

Members are reminded that the Club Presentation Evening will be held on Friday 14 March at the Clubrooms.

Bookings are essential for catering purposes. More details to follow shortly.

Social Bowls continues to be played on Mondays from 12 midday with everyone including new and beginning players encouraged to attend.

Warburton Bowls Club gathers for Pink Ribbon Day. (Supplied)

Yarra Junction Bowls Club finals game postponed due to heat. (Supplied)

Finals in disarray for bowls

By Ian Milgate

Healesville’s Side 1 played away at Yarra Glen, who were in fourth position, and Healesville were in third.

Yarra Glen needed to win to get the home final, so a couple of higher division players were called upon to ensure the result they wanted.

All rinks started off well and Healeville were holding their own right up until the break when they were one shot up 24/23.

After the break, Rob Ayres rink continued to forge ahead while the other two rinks were trying to keep in the game.

Unfortunately, it was not to be and in the end, Healesville went down by 12 shots 51/63.

A great effort by everyone and Healesville will do it all again next week against Yarra Glen in the first week of finals.

Gerda Otto, Bob Brown, Col Jarvis, John Fitzpatrick 13/24

Ian Milgate, Hilda Gurney, Rita Featherstone, Robyn Turville 12/26

Barry Parker, Mick Featherstone, Steve Bulled, Rob Ayres 24/13

Healesville’s 2nd. side played Croydon at home.

Croydon were second on the ladder and Healesville needed to win at least two rinks to stay in the finals.

Croydon got the jump on Healesville at the start, although Healesville were fighting hard to keep in touch with Croydon and by the break, Healesville were only six shots behind them 24/30.

After the break, Russell Smith’s rink fired up with some great bowls from all four players, While Judy Veermann’s rink also kept the pressure up, and it was good to see Judy bowling well again.

In the end, Croydon managed to scrape home by one shot 56/57.

A great effort by everyone and we are in finals starting next week.

Anne Knibbs, Ken Gallacher, Glenda Graham, Russell Smith 24/12

Jill Cookney, Jodie Ward, Mark Cookney, Judy Veermann 19/16

John Allen, Mike Adams, John McMillan, Bernard Godde 13/2

Healesville’s 1st side were playing Donvale at home in the preliminary final.

Earlier in the year Donvale beat Healesville on their green, but Healesville returned the favour on Healesville’s green, so this was going to be a ding dong battle.

Unfortunately, due the Total Fire Ban day, Donvale chose not to play and it was scheduled for Sunday.

Unfortunately, Sunday was also a Total Fire Ban so the rule that Donvale chose at the start of the year was in force, which has totally thrown the finals into chaos for division 3 sides.

Hopefully, this can be sorted out for next year.

Healesville’s side 2 played Eltham at home in the semi final.

Healesville got away to a slow start although keeping in touch with Eltham to be level pegging at the half time break.

After the break, Eltham came out firing with great bowling from Anne Knibbs, Sarah Gallacher, Ken Gallacher, and Judy Veermann to name a few.

As the match went on, Healesville became stronger winning many ends and in the end, Healesville were too strong for Eltham 23 shots up 68/45.

Well done everyone, keep up the good work.

Jill Cookney, Mark Cookney, Ken Gallacher, Judy Veermann 28/15

Judy Wallace, Bernard Godde, Sarah Gallacher, Anne Knibbs 19/14

John Allen, Mike Adams, Glenda Graham, Russell Smith 26/16

Healesville’s 2nd side were to play the looser out of Donvale and Doncaster on Sunday in the preliminary final, but due to Donvale’s choice at the start of the year, re-Don’t play on TFB days, the game between Doncaster an Donvale didn’t happen so Healesville have to wait until that game can be played.

Finals action and a one shot preliminary final win

By Rodney Bates

Weekend pennant finals started on Saturday, with two teams playing elimination finals and one with the double chance in a second semi final.

Division 1 travelled to Bundoora on Saturday, having lost both home and away matches to them this season in close finishes.

With a full team to select from, including Yarra Glen’s two Scottish marquee players Chris Carswell and John Sproat, the team went in with a lot of confidence.

In a remarkable turnaround, all four teams played some great bowls, ending in a commanding 90-65 shot win.

C. Carswell 18/18; S. Manifold 34/13; Beau Simmons 19/13; B. Simmons 19/21.

On Sunday, the team headed to Mitcham to play the section preliminary final.

Yarra Glen jumped away to a healthy lead early and held on well against a spirited Mitcham team andtheelementswithrainattimesinterruptingplay.

Mitcham fought back in the last 20 ends and managed to get one shot ahead with one end to play.

Spida Tirant played a gem to hold shot and level the scores, just losing the measure for second.

An extra end was needed.

With three rinks completed, Mitcham was up 2-1, with Yarra Glen holding one in the head with a bowl in hand.

It couldn’t have been in better hands, with Ben Simmons drawing a second shot within 15cm for a one-shot win and a place in next week’s Section

Grand final against Lalor.

Final score 80-79.

C. Carswell 24/19; S. Manifold 18/19; Beau Simmons 19/20; B. Simmons 19/21.

Division 4 Side 2 had a home second semi-final against Heatherdale.

The sides won one each over the home and away season, both by big margins, so there was no clear favourite going into the game.

It was a mix of two rinks well up and two well down into the break, and in the last 20 ends, less than five shots separated the sides.

It seemed to be shot for shot across all rinks over the last 10 ends, eventually Yarra Glen pulling away for a two rink 11 shot win 80-69.

S. Smith 16/20; M. Ramage 14/20; R. Thurkle 31/13; A. Thurkle 19/16.

The win secures promotion of the side to Division 3 next season.

Side 3 were also playing at home against Mitcham, having beaten them last week to secure a finals spot.

Yarra Glen had some big outs from the regular side, and Mitcham had strengthened considerably their team from finals qualified players.

They proved too good on the day with the final score 50-95.

L. Baker 6/30; J Leather 16/16; G. Baker 21/19; D McMenaman 7/30. This ends the season for side 3.

All in all, a successful season given only a few weeks ago they were in danger of relegation.

Last Home and Away Round for Midweek Pen-

winning

nant.

Midweek Division 2 were holding onto fourth spot, playing third placed Healesville. A loss would mean missing out on finals.

The game was very tightly contested in this local derby but played in good spirit.

After scores near tied at the lunch break, Yarra Glen secured a series of shots across all rinks in the early afternoon, eventually running out winners 63/49 (14 points).

P. Leonard 26/12; P. Tirant 24/13; M. Creighton

13/24. Next Tuesday Yarra Glen will again host Healesville in the elimination first semi-final. Yarra Glen’s second side played Mooroolbark. Mooroolbark needed a win to play finals and proved too strong for our side with the final score 4482 (2 Points).

L. Baker 11/29; B. Grund 10/34; D. McMenaman 23/19.

This is the end of a tough season for side 3, who will play in Division 4 next season.

Eltham congratulate Healesville to progress to preliminary final. (Supplied)

The

bowl celebration. (Supplied)

SPORT

Gold for Pincott at champs

Emily Pincott was the stand out performance from Yarra Ranges Athletics athletes at the Victorian Track and Field Championships held over the last weekend at Lakeside Stadium.

Emily won gold in the U14 women High Jump, equalling her club record with a height of 1.55m.

This is an excellent return to form for Emily after a few weeks off with foot issues.

Carolyn Rosenbrock took gold in the Women 60-64 3000m walk in the very ordinary weather on the opening weekend with a solid 17.24 walk.

Kimi Tove was superb winning bronze in the U14 Men’s Javelin with his throw of 26.98m.

An excellent reward for some consistent training with coach Graeme Woolridge.

Women Open 3000m Steeple: Olivia Twining 11:02.85 (5th); Discus: Meg Sparkes 27.84m (13th); Hammer: Sarah Ebbels 34.06m (14th).

Women Under 20 3000m: Brigitte Rice 11:10.73 (9th).

Women Under 17 800m: Zoe Clarke 2:28.99 (8th), 1500m: Zoe Clarke 5:04.50 (10th).

Women Under 16 100m: Emily Fiedler 13.58 (0.1) (P), 400m: Emily Fiedler 60.51 (7th); 60.30 (P).

Women Under 15 1500m: Brienna Coffey 4:58.33 (10th), 3000m Walk: Brienna Coffey 18:15.39 (4th).

Women Under 14 High Jump: Emily Pincott 1.55m (1st).

Women 60-64 3000m Walk: Carolyn Rosenbrock 17:24.17 (1st).

Men Under 14 Javelin: Ilikimi Tove 26.98m (3rd).

Men AMB 100m: Joseph Johnston 13.74 (-1.6) (7th), 200m: Joseph Johnston 27.61 (0.9) (5th), 400m: Joseph Johnston 64.89 (6th).

Normal Saturday morning competition returned on Saturday with a fantastic group of athletes all chasing personal bests after last weekends region championships. It’s happening all again this Saturday from 8am.

Training for our little athletes 5-12yo takes place on Tuesdays from 4-5pm with event specific training (where possible) for those competing at State championships. All registered and trial members are welcome.

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.

New government grants for sport clubs up for grabs

The State Government has announced a new round of Sporting Club Grants to help grassroots sporting clubs encourage community participation and acquire new equipment.

Grants of up to $5000 are available for clubs to improve the skills and knowledge of volunteers, coaches and officials and clubs can also apply for grants of up to $4000 to plan and deliver a new sport or active recreation program.

Grants of up to $1000 are also available to help clubs to purchase uniforms and equipment, and $750 travel grants are also available to participate in competitions away from home.

“We’re backing our grassroots sporting clubs on and off the field – by helping them to upskill their staff and volunteers so more people in their local community can get involved and play a role,” Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence.

Recent recipients of the Sporting Club Grants Program include the Edinburgh Cricket Club, which used the $4000 boost to help local women get more involved in cricket at all levels – from

playing, to coaching and umpiring.

A grant of over $3000 helped the Woolamai Beach Surf Lifesaving Club better respond to mental health issues in their community by upskilling volunteers, coaches and lifeguards in youth mental health first-aid.

“This grant will support the roll out of our Youth Mental Health First Aid initiative that’s aimed at helping to educate our members on how to support one another and themselves, ensuring that mental health is a priority in our lifesaving efforts,”

Head of Member Wellbeing at the Woolamai Beach Surf Lifesaving Club Erin Close said.

Since 2014, the Sporting Club Grants Program has injected almost $18.4 million into the community and supported thousands of clubs across the state – improving the experience of local community sport for everyone involved. Applications for this round close 27 March 2025. For more information and to apply visit the Sporting Club Grants Program website here: sport. vic.gov.au/funding/sporting-club-grants-program

Latest round of the Sporting Clubs Grant Program is open. (Unsplash)

Emily Pincott wins gold in U14 womens High Jump. (Supplied)