Mail - Mountain Views Star Mail - 4th March 2025

Time to thank SES

By Dongyun Kwon

The Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) is turning 50 this week.

The VICSES has always been central to rescuing people in danger across the state, and the volunteers operate from 154 units across the state, in addition to 16 permanently staffed offices in regional and metro locations.

The SES Healesville Unit was one of the first units established in 1968 before the Civil Defence Organisation changed to VICSES.

Star Mail journalist Dongyun Kwon had a chat with two long-time Healesville SES Unit members Geoff Wilkinson and Karen Picone to look back at the history of the unit.

Turn to page 15 for more

Sun fades on tour

By Dongyun Kwon

The inaugural Timeless Summer Tour was scheduled to take place in January in Australia and New Zealand including one at a Yarra Valley winery.  However, the event promoter announced the postponement of the Timeless Summer Tour on their website in December 2024 with a few days left to the event.

Since the announcement, there have been no more updates or refunds by the event promoter.   Ticket purchasers expressed their disappoint-

ment on Facebook.

Wendy and Tanya, who were planning to attend the Yarra Valley event with other friends, told the Star Mail about their disappointment at the postponement and lack of communication by the promoter.

“Most people appear to want a refund and still nothing has happened,” Wendy said.

“We were given a glimmer of hope that things would start happening on 20 February, and all we got was an email which asked for a few more days.

“These people are holding onto our money and not communicating. They don’t respond to emails and delete Facebook posts.”

Not only the ticket purchasers but also the event venue was notified about it out of the blue.

Rochford Wines music events operations manager Catherine said they were also disappointed they were not able to bring the show to the Yarra Valley.

“Although it was not our decision to cancel the concert, we are sorry this happened so close

to the concert date and for any inconvenience it may have caused,’ she said.

“The promoter has advised they have decided to hold the future tours at indoor venues. As we only hold outdoor events at this size, we cannot be part of that tour.

“Rochford has refunded all tickets that were purchased from Rochford, any remaining tickets were purchased from Ticket Fairy and therefore the promoter’s responsibility.”

Turn to page 4 for more

Unit controller Karen Picone (left) and longest-serving member Geoff Wilkinson. (Stewart Chambers: 460685)

Funding backed for Medicare

Each of the two major political parties has backed a major boost to Medicare following the upcoming federal election, with Labor pledging $8.5 billion in Medicare funding over four years and the Coalition vowing to match it ‘dollar for dollar’.

Labor’s announcement included extending their bulk-billing incentive which they had tripled for pensioners, concession card holders and children to all Australians from 1 November, providing 400 nursing scholarships, fund the training of 2000 new GPs a year by 2028 and install a new Bulk Billing Incentive program which will provide 12.5 loading payment on Medicare rebates for fully bulk-billing practices.

“I want every Australian to know they only need their Medicare card, not their credit card, to receive the healthcare they need,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.

“Australia’s doctors voted Peter Dutton the worst Health Minister in Medicare history for a reason, Peter Dutton tried to end bulk billing with a GP tax and then started a six-year freeze to Medicare rebates that froze GP incomes and stripped billions out of Medicare,” Health Minister Mark Butler said.

On the same day Labor announced their pledge, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton and Shadow Health Minister Anne Ruston matched it, while also pledging an additional $500 million to restore funding for mental health services. Labor reduced the number of subsidised mental health sessions available per year from 20 to 10 in 2023.

“Under Labor’s bulk billing crisis, it has never been harder and more expensive to see a doctor. Australians are now paying 45 per cent more to see their GP, as bulk billing has collapsed from 88 per cent under the Coalition, to 77 per cent under Anthony Albanese,” the joint media release reads.

“This crisis has forced 1.5 million Australians to avoid seeing a doctor in 2023-24, adding further demand to already under-pressure hospitals across the country.”

The Coalition media release welcomed the investment in the bulk billing incentive, training for GPs and nurses and the additional $1.7 billion in funding for the public hospital system.

Australian Medical Association President Dr Danielle McMullen said the announcement shows that the government understands the quantum of funding that’s needed to reverse decades of underinvestment and to start to shift the dial on accessible and affordable general practice care.

“This will make a difference to the sustainability of bulk billing, general practices and in areas where practices and GPs have recently had to introduce small out-of-pocket charges, this will improve things for their situation and potentially mean that they can reverse those out-of-pocket

charges for patients,” she said.

“Excitingly, today we’ve seen some excellent announcements about workforce support for general practice. We’re seeing more training places, a sign-on bonus for doctors who choose to become GPs, and paid parental leave and study leave for general practice trainees.”

While welcoming the funding, the AMA still expressed concerns that in some areas, particularly metropolitan areas, patients may still not be able to access full bulk billing as the rebate may still fall short of the cost of care and also called for

a restructuring of medicare that helps cover longer appointments for patients with chronic and complex ailments.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) echoed the AMA’s support of the funding for training, the bipartisan commitment of funding and concerns regarding the impact in metropolitan areas while also warning the focus on bulk-billing rates may not suit all general practice business models.

“The additional investment into general practice is a positive thing but we’ve got to make sure

that it’s targeted to the people who need it and the GPs who need that funding as well,’ RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said to newsGP.

“Just because these bulk-billing incentives are available to everyone doesn’t mean everyone’s going to have access to bulk billing, because GPs are still able to set their fees and the college will completely support that going forward,”

“The Medicare rebate still may not cover the cost of care and that’s really important for government to make clear and for patients to know.”

Snake threat increases in the Yarra Ranges

By Oliver Winn

An extended hot summer and 129 recorded snakebites means people of the Yarra Ranges must be weary of the threat

Ambulance Victoria (AV) emergency management director Dale Armstrong said of these cases, 125 people were transported to hospital.

“With hot weather continuing, the snakes are out, which means we need to be vigilant,” Mr Armstrong said.

It comes after ambulance crews had to work with the Upper Yarra SES on 5 February to retrieve a construction worker on the Warburton Mountain Bike (WMTB) Destination trail after he was reportedly bitten by a snake.

Upper Yarra SES unit controller Hannah Brunton told the Star Mail on Thursday 6 February there’s “a lot of snakes out and about” in the Yarra Ranges and called upon people to be mindful of the danger.

“I think people just need to be vigilant of where they’re walking and what they’re doing,” Ms Brunton said.

Most snakes in Victoria are highly venomous and a bite can be life threatening, but there are some basic first aid steps people should provide to minimise injury while waiting for an emergency services to arrive.

Mr Armstrong said “If someone is suspected to have suffered a snake bite, even if you’re not sure, you should call Triple Zero (000) immediately.”

People accompanying a victim of a snake bike should keep the victim still and reassured and only move them if it’s too unsafe to stay put.

Ms Brunton said due to the geography of the

Yarra Ranges, emergency response times may be longer, so victims should provide as much information to emergency services they can give to identify the location.

The easier it is to identify the location “the better it is and the faster we can get out there,” Ms Brunton said.

Snake bites commonly occur on hands, feet or limbs, so applying a pressure immobilisation bandage to the affected limb can also make a big difference to the treatment and outcome of a snake bite incident.

The Australian Resuscitation Council recommends applying a pressure immobilisation bandage (snakebite bandage) starting at the fingers or toes and working up the arm or leg as far as possible, ensuring that the bite site is covered.

If a bandage has already been applied to the bite, or if the bite is covered with clothing, the pressure immobilisation bandage should be applied over this.

Snake bites may cause pain and swelling around the puncture wound, or there may be very few signs left on the skin.

Symptoms that snake venom has entered your body may include dizziness, blurred vision, breathing difficulties, nausea, muscle weakness or paralysis.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson confirmed that paramedics were called to an incident in Wesburn at around 3.15pm on 5 February.

“A male in his 20s was transported by road to Maroondah Public Hospital in a stable condition with lower body injuries,” they said.

There’s been an increase in reports of snake activity around the Yarra Ranges. (Unsplash)

A bipartisan boost to Medicare will come following this year’s federal election. (File)

IN BRIEF

Theft of a Crane Truck

Responders on call

By Dongyun Kwon

Local emergency services had a busy day dealing with different jobs from a rescue and fallen trees to tree and grass fires on Sunday 23 February.

The SES Healesville Unit, the Healesville CFA, and Badger Creek CFA pulled together to assist Ambulance Victoria in extricating a casualty who had fallen and sustained significant injuries.

Healesville CFA First Lieutenant Zac Lockwood said the crew received a callout for the rescue around 10am.

“It was to assist Ambulance Victoria and SES with the extrication of a patient from under the bridge on Robin Parade,” he said.

“The patient fell and sustained some injuries. Due to the difficult access, the ambulance needed extra people to carry the patient out.”

About two hours later, the Healesville CFA responded to a tree fire in Everard Park Picnic Area in Healesville.

“That had started to spread to the paddock,” Mr Lockwood said.

“Due to the intensity of the fire and the size of the tree, it took over five hours to extinguish, and we had to get Forest Fire Management Victoria to assist with cutting the large gum tree.

“We also made sure the surrounding grass area was fully extinguished.”

While busy responding to the tree job, the local fire brigade was paged out to investigate two coal fire barbecues at Maroondah Reservoir Park around 1.45pm.

“People at the Maroondah Dam Picnic Area had a fire pit with two hot coal barbecues in it during a Total Fire Ban which they weren’t al-

lowed to have,” Mr Lockwood said.

“We extinguished the two barbecues and then left the scene in the hands of the police.

“We would like to remind everyone that the fire danger period is still in force.”

The Healesville firefighters were called out one more time to support the Yarra Glen CFA to put out a grass fire on King Street in Yarra Glen around 9.40pm.

Including the rescue job on Robin Parade, the Healesville SES unit had a hectic day to keep the

community safe.

Healesville SES unit controller Karen Picone said the unit received a first call-out at 5am and completed the last job around 5pm.

“CFA and SES were requested to assist the ambulance on the corner of Robin Parade and Weiss Road in Healesville to help get a single patient out,” she said.

“We had six tree jobs because of the storms, mainly up Badger Creek and one on HealesvilleKoo Wee Rup Road.”

Rubbish truck fire in Healesville

By Dongyun Kwon

Local firefighters were called out to a rubbish truck fire, triggering a reminder about the importance of disposing of batteries and e-waste correctly.

The original call came from near Lilydale Road and Healesville Kinglake Road in Healesville at 6.30am on Tuesday 25 February.

The truck driver was able to park in the open area at the Healesville Railway Station car park.

Healesville CFA First Lieutenant Zac Lockwood said there was something in the back of the truck which had caused a build up of heat and smoke.

“Once we got there, the truck was unloaded so that we could douse the contents with water,” he said.

“Then the council came out with an excavator to spread the pile apart so we could fully extinguish and cool everything.

“At this stage, I cannot confirm whether ewaste or batteries caused the fire, but I’d like to reinforce to everyone to be aware not to put batteries and e-waste in their rubbish bins and to make sure they dispose of them correctly.”

An Australian Competition and Consumer Commission survey identified over a third of

and e-waste. (Healesville Fire Brigade Facebook)

Australians (39 per cent) didn’t know how to correctly dispose of lithium-based batteries or consumer electronics.

Australian Council of Recycling chief executive officer Suzanne Toumbourou said the safety message is urgent given the battery fire risk is increasing, with over 10,000 battery-related fires a year across Australia’s waste and recycling systems.

“Our sector is seeing an increasing number of discarded batteries and consumer electronics wrongly placed in conventional household

and commercial bins, instead of being safely disposed of in designated battery or e-waste collection points,” she said.

“These items cause fires throughout waste and recycling systems, including in bins, trucks, transfer stations and recycling facilities - posing a serious threat to the safety of our workers and jeopardising critical recycling infrastructure.

“We call on governments across Australia to significantly boost community education on how to correctly dispose of consumer electronics; and urge the public to always check and ensure they’re doing the right thing to protect waste and recycling workers, emergency services and the wider community.”

Lithium-based batteries should be topped and tailed with clear sticky tape and taken to a local council resource recovery centre, a participating hardware or grocery store with a battery recycling program including Coles, Aldi and Bunnings.

Commercial waste and recycling services will pick up or receive businesses’ discarded batteries and electronic products for a fee.

The Coldstream Transfer Station accepts ewaste for the Yarra Valley.

Healesville Police are seeking information regarding the theft of a Crane Truck stolen from Don Road, Healesville between 26 and 28 February. The truck is a 2010 Izuzu and was displaying registration plates XLQ381 at the time of the theft. Anyone with information about the offence, or has any information about the location of the truck is urged to contact Healesville Police on 5962 4422, or Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

• Ref No: 250093359

Fatal crash in Seville

Yarra Ranges Highway Patrol officers are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash in Seville on Sunday 2 March.

It is understood a motorcycle left the roadway and crashed into a tree near the intersection of Parslows and Macclesfield roads just after 11am. Emergency services worked on the rider, who is yet to formally identified, but he could not be revived. 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

• For the current provisional lives lost tally please see police.vic.gov.au/road-safety

Commotion caused by Midnight fires in Warburton

At just after midnight on 1 March, CFA were called to reports of a fire being lit behind the Warburton Post office.

CFA attended, however were unable to locate the fire. Then at approximately 1.10am, CFA were again called to Warburton for a bushfire on the north side of the Yarra River near the Redwood Bridge. CFA were able to get the fire under control, however, it was still threatening properties on Blackwood Avenue.

Police are seeking assistance from the public to identify those responsible, or to identify any further small fires lit during this period.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or with footage is urged to contact Yarra Ranges Crime Investigation Unit on (03) 9739 2401. Alternatively, to submit a confidential report, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www. crimestoppersvic.com.au

Three occupants safely extricated Badger Creek and Healesville CFAs responded to a car fire on Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road on Tuesday 25 February.

The three occupants, a mum and her two daughters, were able to get out of the vehicle safely.

Badger Creek CFA First Lieutenant Sara Poynton said she didn’t know the exact cause of the fire, but the fire started at the front part of the car.

“We got the call at 3.11pm,” she said.

“It took about 20 minutes to put it out.”

Badger Creek and Healesville CFAs responded to a car fire on Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road on Tuesday 25 February. (Healesville Fire Brigade Facebook)

Rubbish truck fire a reminder of the importance of the correct way to dispose of the batteries

Tree fire in Everard Park Picnic Area in Healesville. (Healesville Fire Brigade Facebook)

Tour fallout impacts locals

By Dongyun Kwon

A live music event, which was going to be held at different venues in Australia and New Zealand, was postponed with no updates or refunds by the event promoter since.

The event was postponed with just a few days left to the event in December 2024.

The inaugural Timeless Summer Tour was scheduled to take place in January in Australia and New Zealand including one at a Yarra Valley winery.

Emerald resident Wendy was going to attend the Yarra Valley event with her friends.

They purchased the tickets in August last year, which cost over $200 per person.

Wendy said she and her friends were excited about the Timeless Summer Tour, which had a great line-up at an outdoor venue.

“The event organiser has cancelled the concert for whatever reason and we’ve been strung along since before Christmas with many promises of new events later in the year,” she said.

“However, most people appear to want a refund and still nothing has happened.

“We were given a glimmer of hope that things would start happening on 20 February, and all we got was an email which asked for a few more days.

“These people are holding onto our money and not communicating. They don’t respond to emails and delete Facebook posts.”

Wendy’s friend Tanya said she had been looking forward to the day out with friends and the shonky communication has been frustrating.

“I don’t commit to many big music festival tickets usually, so I would like my money back at the very least,“ she said.

In a lengthy statement posted on the Timeless Summer Tour website, the reasons for postponing the festival were given.

The statement said the Timeless Summer Tour was impacted by the financial climate, which many live events were struggling with, and the last-minute loss of two New Zealand venues.

“Please know we are now working through this process, including working with the artists’ teams, to confirm new dates for this tour. We will be working diligently in coming weeks to finalise new dates and venues,” it reads.

“We’d like to humbly request your patience with this process as there are a number of businesses, groups and officials we need to communicate with and given some are in a shutdown period during the festive season we are expecting to be able to announce new dates for Timeless Summer Tour in February… To combat these issues, we will be moving Timeless Summer Tour to indoor venues later in 2025 and we will be putting in all of our efforts to confirm all of the details and the new dates from now…

“Rest assured your tickets will be automatically transferred for use at the new event and you won’t need to do anything. If the new dates and venues are no longer suitable and you are unable to attend any longer, we will provide you with information about the refund process.”

The venue for the Yarra Valley event, Roch-

ford Winery, was also notified through a media release by the promoter, which was exactly the same as the announcement on their website.

Rochford Wines music events operations manager Catherine said they were also disappointed they were not able to bring the show to the Yarra Valley.

“Although it was not our decision to cancel the concert, we are sorry this happened so close to the concert date and for any inconvenience it may have caused,’ she said.

“The promoter has advised they have decided to hold the future tours at indoor venues. As we only hold outdoor events at this size, we cannot be part of that tour.

“Rochford has refunded all tickets that were

purchased from Rochford, any remaining tickets were purchased from Ticket Fairy and therefore the promoter’s responsibility.”

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) explains consumer rights on its website at accc.gov.au/consumers/buyingproducts-and-services/buying-tickets-to-events

“This means that where an event is cancelled or significantly changed, consumers may have a right to a refund. This will depend on: the reason for the cancellation or change, the nature of the change, and the terms and conditions of the ticket,” it reads.

“Where the event organiser chooses to cancel or makes a major change to an event, consumers are entitled to a refund under their consumer rights.

“Examples of a major change might be where the headline act at a festival is changed, or where the location of a show is changed from one city to another. Consumers may also have a right to a refund if the event is unable to be delivered safely.”

ACCC also articulates how to claim compensation for losses related to the cancellation of, or significant change to, the event, such as travel or accommodation expenses for the event.

Please visit accc.gov.au/consumers/problem-with-a-product-or-service-you-bought/ claiming-compensation for more information regarding the compensation-claiming process.

Star Mail contacted the Timeless Summer Tour promoter.

The inaugural Timeless Summer Tour, scheduled to take place in January in Australia and New Zealand, was announced to be postponed out of the blue. (File)

NEWS Council eyes federal funds

By Callum Ludwig

With the Australian Government set to deliver its budget on 25 March and a federal election due by May, Yarra Ranges Council put forward a pre-budget submission for federal funding at the Tuesday 25 February council meeting.

The submission will be presented to candidates for the electorate of Casey and sent to relevant government and shadow ministers to help influence their decision-making for the electorate, and specifically in the Yarra Ranges.

Yarra Ranges Council called for funding to address issues across five specific subjects: Resilience and Sustainability, Vibrant Townships: Tourism and Sustainable Economic Growth, Community and Recreation Infrastructure, Roads and Integrated Transport Infrastructure and Health and Wellbeing.

Deputy Mayor and Chirnside Ward Councillor Richard Higgins said the document took some time to put together as it sought to cover a good, wide spread across the municipality.

“Some of the things that we can’t deal with ourselves due to the extensive costs involved, which obviously ur state and federal government have a little bit more money to spend and hopefully within our municipality,” he said.

“It’s very timely at this time with the looming federal election, and I’m not going to go through the whole document, but having read it a couple of times, it covers off on everything that we can possibly hope to cover off on.”

Thefirstrequestsputforwardinthesubmission are for the federal government to restore Financial Assistance Grants to at least 1 per cent and ideally 2 per cent of Commonwealth taxation revenue via a phased approach, having reduced to about 0.55 per cent in the last three decades.

Secondly, Yarra Ranges called for telecommunications improvements including; Identifying telecommunications as an essential service.

Improve mobile connectivity in the Dandenong Ranges, Hoddles Creek, East Warburton, Steels Creek and Fernshaw.

Upgrade NBN services to fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) in areas with slow broadband service

Strengthen network resilience against power outages and emergencies

Consider crucial sites for funding through the Mobile Network Hardening Program (Warburton, East Warburton, McMahon’s Creek, Kalorama,

The Patch, Macclesfield, Silvan and Belgrave)

Expand peri-urban eligibility for the Peri-Urban Mobile Program, the Mobile Network Hardening Program and the Mobile Black Spot program to be within 4km of a Major Urban Boundary to ensure high-risk areas in the Dandenong Ranges aren’t excluded

Billanook Ward Councillor Tim Heenan said the need for funding in the shire is great and it’s getting even greater.

“We have such a diversity of things that exist in the Yarra Ranges, and I know that looking at the document and in particular, obviously, my eyes go straight to the stormwater offset program, implementation of $120,000 and the flood mapping and mitigation projects of $3.72 million, not to mention all the other very, very worthy recommendations that have been made in this document,” he said.

“But the important thing to understand is in this day and age, local government can’t just act by continually charging ratepayers larger rates and even if we did that, we still would not have enough money because of the diversity, the complexity and how big our shire is.”

For Resilience and Sustainability, Yarra Ranges Council has asked for a total of $32.01 million (including funding which would be spread over multiple years) to help fund projects including but not limited to:

• Place-based resilience in planning in key localities

• Establishing a Regional Resilience Hub

• Enhancing the Cultural Burning Program

• Supporting the Greening the Suburbs program

• Supporting the Biolink and Invasive Species program

• Supporting the Zero Emissions Facilities transition, Fleet and Plant

• Establishing a Community Climate Adaptation Program

• Implementing a Stormwater Offset Program and do Flood Mapping and Mitigation projects

Ryrie Ward Councillor Fiona McAllister said not a single thing on the list is unworthy.

“Every single piece that is mentioned, from black spot funding to the flood mapping and mitigation, and something very close to my heart, advocacy for urgent care,” she said.

“All of these are important, and if we were in a different funding scenario, than some of these we wouldn’t need to be asking for, but they’re all critical for our community.”

Under Vibrant Townships, Yarra Ranges Council is seeking a total of $84.415 million for projects including but not limited to:

• The Warburton Mountain Bike Destination, Yarra Valley Trail and ngurrak barring projects

• Wandin North Pedestrian and Streetscape improvements

Upgrades to Community and Recreation Infra-

Planning permit application confusion

By Dongyun Kwon

A lot of confusion has been generated among the Healesville community regarding a planning permit application.

Yarra Ranges Council received a permit application for buildings and works at Oonah Belonging Place at Queens Park, 1 to 1A Badger Creek Road, Healesville.

The application address, however, raised questions about which site was set for development, given there was an attribution to the Liv-

ing and Learning Centre.

Yarra Ranges Council planning and sustainable future director Kath McClusky has since confirmed the Healesville Living and Learning Centre is not closing and is not included in this planning permit.

“Healesville Living and Learning Centre is supported by the council through a Neighbourhood House Partnership grant, and they are an important part of the Healesville service network,” she said.

“The council will continue to support Heales-

ville Living and Learning Centre in its next strategic planning phase and ongoing work of building strong communities.

“However, the Women’s Shed will need to be relocated if the site is redeveloped.”

Yarra Ranges Council is able to receive submissions until the date of the decision.

For more information or to make a submission, please visit the following website, eplanning.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Pages/XC.Track/ SearchApplication.aspx?id=1408661

More to come next week.

structure, including sports, aquatics and early years education facilities.

Melba Ward Councillor Mitch Mazzarella said hopefully bringing this document to the election and the budget will see these worthy causes get funding.

“There’s a few things I’m disappointed to see didn’t make the cut, particularly with the McDermott Avenue reserve, it would have been nice to just have a little bit in there, considering we’ve got an election announcement this morning from (Casey MP Aaron) Mr Violi for about $375,000 for that,” he said.

“Very happy to see stormwater is on there, it’s so important and such a crucial issue in our local communities and of course the sealing of roads has been a big issue across the shire…and the other thing. I’m quite surprised is in here for a good reason is the duplication of the Lilydale to Mooroolbark train line.”

Under Roads and Integrated Transport Infrastructure, Council is advocating for:

• $23 million to help Yarra Ranges Council seal their top 12 identified roads to support emergency access or egress

• Improvements to the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail to enhance cyclist and pedestrian safety

• The duplication of the Lilydale Line between Lilydale and Mooroolbark

Under Health and Wellbeing, Council is advocating for projects regarding Housing and Homelessness, Mental Health and Urgent Care including:

• Identifying and releasing suitable Commonwealth land for social and affordable housing, as well as funding and delivery pathways to help deliver it when Councils contribute suitable land

• Undertake a comprehensive review and increase Commonwealth Rent Assistance

• Provide targeted funding to the Victorian Government to urgently increase social housing and crisis accommodation

• Collaborate with the council to design and fund a homelessness outreach case management service and a drop-in service in Yarra Ranges

• Expanded resourcing for mental health services, including headspaceLilydale and support to integrate mental health services with general health service provision

Allocate funding for either a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic or a Rural Urgent Care Centre to be developed in Healesville.

Yarra Ranges Council confirmed the Healesville Living and Learning Centre is not included in the Oonah’s planning permit. (Dongyun Kwon: 462548)

Yarra Ranges Council has prepared a pre-budget submission ahead of the upcoming Federal budget and following election. (File)

Calls for tiny homes policy

By Tanya Steele

A couple from Belgrave South who have been living out of their caravan recently started an online petition asking Yarra Ranges Council to implement a Tiny House on Wheels and/or caravan living policy in the municipality.

The local council has been urged to adopt a Tiny House on Wheels (THOWs) policy in the petition posted on 6 February this year after months of back and forth with Yarra Ranges Council.

Evrim has lived with her partner Benny in Belgrave South for two and a half years – the duo moved to the Yarra Ranges after fitting out their caravan to be roadworthy beforehand.

“We’re both community workers, arts workers, and we know that we couldn’t afford to buy a traditional house because work is not always stable,” she said.

The two both have chronic health issues and knew a mortgage would be out of reach.

“When we first moved here, we called the council and chatted to them and talked about the laws to understand,” Evrim said.

Evrim said they love living in the Yarra Ranges and with the elderly couple whose land they occupy.

“The Yarra Ranges local laws are super friendly, and in theory, they were made that way to allow for people to have flexible housing options,” she said.

“I don’t know who passed those local laws, who agreed to it, but basically the law here is that it states you can live in a caravan on private property, which is considered camping on private property - it is what we believed we were doing without causing a nuisance for no specified time limit.”

With over 650 signatures since 6 February, the petition is gaining traction online and the couple are asking the council to work with its community to develop laws to ensure safe, affordable housing options without evictions.

“We received a building order to vacate our Tiny House on Wheels, which is a roadworthy caravan, meets the Transport Victoria Standards and is on a chassis,” the petition reads.

“We have been in communication with the Planning and Building teams over the past six months, as we believed that we were within our rights to ‘camp on private property without causing a nuisance’, as per the local laws,”

“We are not the only people in the Yarra Ranges who have received a Building Order to vacate our THOWs.”

Tiny houses can often be considered caravans, and this is why, in turn, they don’t require a building permit. They do tend to have requirements around how long one can live in them on private land – with utilities and land use issues like bushfire management overlay and green wedge planning provisions coming into play for the Yarra Ranges. Legislation in most states limits stays to two consecutive days, and less than 60 days per year.

In the Yarra Ranges, a THOW is not considered a ‘building’, due to it being a registered vehicle - a THOW may not be permitted - according to the website.

The crux of the issue revolves around the Yarra Ranges council asking for the couple’s caravan - a

registered vehicle, to be classed as a building.

“We see tiny houses as an amazing solution to the housing crisis,” said Evrim. “We understand if we were unmovable, if we weren’t on wheels – we are literally a vehicle,” she said.

Yarra Ranges Director Planning and Sustainable Futures Kath McClusky said that council’s municipal building surveyor is responsible for ensuring buildings are compliant with the Building Act 1993.

“Under building regulations, there are specific definitions for each class of building and how it can be used,” they said.

“If a Tiny Home on Wheels is a place of residence, then it is deemed to be a ‘classifiable’ structure under the Building Act and Regulations and a building permit is required by law.”

When it comes to approving where people live, McClusky said council is involved in ensuring that the location is safe for all.

“This includes considering issues such as bushfire, flood or landslip risk, health matters and links to septic tanks and water supply, impacts on local

neighbours or the local environment,” she said.

“Thedifficultyofprovidingappropriatehousingis something that council takes seriously.”

“Council has recently released the 15-Year Housing Strategy that was approved in June last year – As identified within Council’s Housing Strategy, there is a need for State level policy guidance on how Tiny Houses on Wheels should be defined and considered by all local governments.“

Evrim said the couple have worked very hard to come to a reasonable solution with council, there has been months of back and forth over the situation, with the duo getting in touch with local Yarra Ranges councillors and MP for Monbulk Daniela De Martino to advance their cause.

“I have spoken with Evrim and Benny about their situation,” said Ms De Martino. “I have referred their concerns and queries to the Minister’s office for further advice.”

The Department of Planning and Transport referred the Star Mail back to Yarra Ranges Council for comment.

Ms McClusky said that in December 2023, the Victoria Government introduced new planning legislation to allow property owners to establish a small second dwelling on their land in a Green Wedge Zone, however planning and building permits are required for this.

“A Tiny House on Wheels may be considered under a planning permit process as a small second dwelling provided specific planning requirements are met,” they said.

“If the Tiny House on Wheels does not meet the requirements of a small second dwelling, then the Tiny House would be considered as an ‘accommodation use’ on the land. “There are strict planning controls on the use of land for all forms of accommodation and dwelling use in our Green Wedge Zones.”

Other councils in Victoria have faced similar issues, with Mount Alexander Shire Councillors unanimously voting in June 2023 to remove permit requirements for people wishing to camp or occupy a caravan or tiny home on wheels on private property where there is an existing dwelling.

The tiny home on wheels is a registered vehicle.(Supplied)

$6 to park per hour ‘pilot’

By Oliver Winn

The price of parking for visitors in Warburton was settled upon in the Yarra Ranges Council meeting on Tuesday 25 February and is due to start Saturday 3 May.

The Visitor Paid Parking Pilot Project aims to ease congestion, provide fair parking and more fairly distribute the cost of maintaining infrastructure among residents and visitors.

“This Visitor Paid Parking Pilot Project is a major change for our residents and it’s important to take advantage of the variety of ways you can obtain your permit. And it’s important to ensure you get your permit so you don’t have to pay to park,” Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child said.

Residents will be able to apply for a permit to avoid paying from 17 March and can apply online, over the phone or in person.

“The Yarra Ranges region is one of Victoria’s most visited destinations, with annual visitor numbers expected to double from 4.5 million to over 9 million in the next decade,” Cr Child said.

“While this growth is vital to the local economy, it also creates significant challenges for our infrastructure, particularly in the high visitation areas like Warburton.”

Paid parking will only be enforced on public holidays and weekends at four locations in Warburton:

• Warburton Waterworld - $6 per hour

• Thomas Avenue - $3.50 per hour

• Warburton Highway - first hour free, then $6 per hour

• Station Road - $3.50 per hour

Cr Mitch Mazzarella said was happy to see the introduction of paid parking to sort out the difficulties with parking in Warburton, he was wary about the messaging for the exemption permit and said no matter how much marketing there is, people won’t know about it.

Cr Mazzarella was also critical of the inability to pay parking fees with cash and said the added eftpos and card surcharges are ‘clipping the ticket’.

“Too bad if you don’t have a bank account, too bad if you prefer to use cash, too bad if you have to bring your card or your phone dies and you

“What I’ve asked officers is: ‘Why can’t residents who do get fined for not paying have their fine waived or a warning issued on appeal because they’re a Yarra Ranges resident’,” he said.

Pin Oak tree removal in Coronation Park

By Dongyun Kwon

A Healesville resident recently found two trees were cut down in Coronation Park but couldn’t find any notice regarding it.

Bronwyn McAsey said she was surprised because the trees completely disappeared as if they had never existed.

“It was one tree first, and I thought ‘Where’s that gone?’, I went there again, and there was another tree gone,” she said.

“It was very much a part of the Healesville experience where you would go down and walk among these towering trees and their beautiful canopies. They reflect the seasons,

they change colours and provide shade and coolness during the heat.

“There’s no notice. There’s nothing, explaining why they were removed.”

Yarra Ranges Council confirmed one tree was removed in the park, not two trees.

A Yarra Ranges Council spokesperson said a pin oak (quercus palustris) was removed on 30 January after a substantial branch on the tree snapped.

“The remainder of the tree had to be removed as it would have been dangerous had it been left there,” they said.

“A review will be undertaken for replanting in coming weeks.”

can’t use a digital card,” Cr Mazzarella said.

To work around council having to employ someone to collect cash from the machines, Cr Mazzarella suggested local businesses could store cash on their premises for a small commission.

But Cr Child said while he accepts card only payments may pose challenges to some, Yarra Ranges Council must really start looking at the way things operate now.

“I believe that the options that we are offering and the notifications that we’re giving back to the community are considerable,” Cr Child said.

If the pilot is successful, the Yarra Ranges Council plans to expand the visitor paid parking to other high tourism towns.

The motion was passed with eight councillors voting for and one against.

A pin oak tree was completely removed in Coronation Park, Healesville. (Supplied)

A price has been set for paid visitor parking in Warburton. (File)

NEWS Still time to have a say

By Oliver Winn

A renewed version of Yarra Ranges Council’s Disability Action Plan (DAP) will undertake another four weeks of community consultation in March before being finalised for the 2025-2029 period.

The council will consult members of the community, stakeholders and the Disability Advisory Committee using e-newsletters, radio, social media and in-person interviews.

“I go back a long way with the council and council hasn’t always taken a lot of interest in people with a disability,” Cr Len Cox said.

With the establishment of the Disability Advisory Committee 12 years ago, Cr Cox said the council’s approach to disability has “improved enormously”.

“They [the Disability Advisory Committee] established the first Disability Action Plan, which ran out in 2023, and this is the one to replace it.”

The motion to have the DAP undergo another four weeks of consultation was carried unanimously.

The draft DAP aims to improve access to council information, services and facilities while eliminating barriers preventing inclusion across council as a whole.

To improve access to information, the council will begin disability awareness campaigns and mandatory disability awareness training for staff.

Creating a more walkable Yarra Ranges through accessible footpaths is just one of many initiatives which will fulfil the council’s pledge for more inclusive infrastructure.

Some key areas highlighted by previous community feedback included more inclusive emergency management, accessible public transport and accessible housing affordability.

The Yarra Ranges has a higher rate of disability at 26 per cent when compared to the rest of Victo-

ria, which sits at 19 per cent.

Deputy Mayor Cr Richard Higgins said the range of difficulties people living with disabilities

face is “quite immense”.

“I look forward to everybody that may be impacted by a disability to have a look at the

document and research it to let us know if we’ve missed anything, because it’s really important we get it right,” Cr Higgins said.

Free Kinder: Enrol for 2025.

Free Kinder is available for three- and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services. Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone) and long day care (childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,563 each year, per child.

At kindergarten, your child will:

• learn language, literacy and numeracy skills through play, art, music and dance

• learn to express themself and make friends in a safe and caring environment

• build skills and confidence before primary school.

Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2025. Visit vic.gov.au/kinder

Yarra Ranges Council’s Disability Action Plan will replace the existing document to reflect today’s standards. (Unsplash)

Next stage of trail to begin

By Dongyun Kwon

A long-time project is getting into the next phase as councillors awarded the tender for the project.

Yarra Ranges councillors agreed unanimously to award the nearly $3 million tender for the Yarra Valley Trail (YVT) Stage 1B.2.  Ryrie Ward councillor Fiona McAllister moved the recommendation, saying this is an important stage in the project.

“Over its journey, I think (it’s) important to remember that with the delays in funding, funding withdrawals and escalating costs, we find ourselves able to build, through the awarding of this tender, the remaining piece of the trail to get us to Yarra River not quite to Yarra Glen,” she said.

“As I said, construction of three bridges, repurposing of a beautiful historic timber trestle bridge pathways, 2.7km of fencing, stock access gates for property owners who have stock that need to travel across the trail, (are) an important step in the process, not quite where we want to be, but at this stage, we don’t have the funding to build what will be a very significant piece in the trail network to take Lilydale through Yarra Glen connection right through to Yarra Glen.

“To get to this point, Yarra Ranges has contributed about a third of the funding. The rest has come both from the state and federal governments to give us the next step, which will support not just tourists but the local community and also the local economy, substantially, and we will be seeking additional funding.”

Through this contract, the council will commence the construction of a new 1.5km long shared path trail along the alignment of the former Healesville Railway Line, starting at the end of the existing path 1.2 kilometres north of MacIntyre Lane, Yering and finishing at the end of the existing earth railway viaduct 50 metres from the Yarra River, Yering.

The motion was seconded by Cr Tim Heenan. He pointed out the grand vision of the Yarra Valley Trail project is to connect the track through Yarra Glen and Healesville to the Warburton Rail Trail.

The contract will include the following:

• Demolition and removal of remaining railway sleepers, railway line and fixtures including stockpiling of steel for future heritage railway reuse.

• Detailed design certified by a structural engineer including demolition, testing, strengthening and re-construction methodology for the one existing timber trestle bridge.

• Detailed design by a certified structural engineer for three replacement bridges.

• Repair, strengthening and reconstruction of one historic timber trestle railway bridge.

• Construction of approximately 1.35 kilometres of 3 metres wide crushed rock path, with crushed rock shoulders.

• Installation of approximately 2.7 kilometres of partial barrier timber and wire fencing on either side of the crushed rock path along the earth viaduct.

• Replacement of three former railway bridges destroyed in the 2009 bushfires with new 3.2-metre-wide bridges.

• Fencing to include stock evacuation gates.

Yarra Ranges councillors agreed unanimously to award the nearly $3 million tender for the Yarra Valley Trail (YVT) Stage 1B.2. (File)

FEDERALELECTIONSURVEY

What issues matter most this Federal Election in suburban Australia?

As one of the largest publishers of independent community news in Victoria, Star News Group is conducting this simple survey to gauge community sentiment around the forthcoming federal election.

Please take 5 minutes to have your say and be part of this important conversation. The results of the survey will help us gauge the appetite of readers toward the forthcoming Federal Election and we will share results with our readers.

1. What do you see as the single most important issue in the upcoming federal election?

2. Please select the top 5 of the following issues that are "Extremely Important" to you:

Electricity Prices

Climate Change Policies

Inflation (Cost of Living)

Health Services

Immigration and border control

National roads and rail infrastructure

Water infrastructure

Broadband interenet access

Please specify:

3. Please select the top 5 of the following issues that are "Least Important" to you:

Electricity Prices Climate Change Policies

Inflation (Cost of Living)

Health Services

Immigration and border control

National roads and rail infrastructure

Water infrastructure

Broadband interenet access

Please specify:

4. Which is more important to you? Cheapest electricity possible Reducing carbon emissions

5. Do you support nuclear energy in Australia?

Yes No

6. Would you support a nuclear plant in your local area? Yes No

7. Where would you most like to see a local increase in federal funding, and why?

Local hospitals Local national highways

Local infrastructure project Defence

Other

You can either fill in the survey below and email in or complete the survey online (Simply scan the QR code below) First Name: Last Name: Daytime Contact Phone No:

Once completed, please scan or photograph your completed survey and email to:

8. Regarding immigration policy, do you believe the next government should:

Increase immigration

Reduce Immigration

Keep it about the same

9. At this point are you more likely to vote for:

A major party (Labor or Coalition)

A minor party

An independent

10. On a scale of 1 to 5, (5 the highest), how significant do you think the influence of social media is on public discourse and political decisionmaking in Australia?

1 2 3 4 5 Why?

11. On a scale of 1 to 5, (5 the highest), how concerned are you about global security currently? 1 2 3 4 5 Why?

12. On a scale of 1 to 5, (5 the highest), how concerned are you about housing affordability in your region?

1 2 3 4 5

13. In your opinion, how important is improved national road and transport infrastructure in your region?

1 2 3 4 5

14. What specific infrastructure projects do you believe should be prioritised in your region?

15. Are there any other local or regional issues that you feel are not getting enough attention in the federal election campaign? Please share your thoughts.

16. What age group do you fall into?

Find your place, a community where you can truly belong. Enjoy the comfort and privacy of your own home while being part of a vibrant and supportive network. Embrace new friendships, engage in meaningful activities, and discover a life filled with purpose and connection.

159 ST AMBROSE GROVE , LILYDALE

$580,000 - $640,000 162 ST AMBROSE GROVE, LILYDALE

Comfort, Community, and Convenience at Tudor Village

Downsize without compromise at Tudor Village! This charming 2-bedroom home offers spacious Open-plan living, a modern kitchen, and a tranquil courtyard. Enjoy a vibrant community, convenient location near shops and transport, and the peace of mind that comes with a secure and welcoming environment. Plus, you’ll be close to family, your doctor, and all the amenities you need. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to embrace a relaxed and fulfilling lifestyle.

$690,000 - $759,000

Priced to Sell! Renovated Tudor Village Gem

Charming 2-bedroom home in vibrant Tudor Village, Lilydale. Brand-new kitchen & bathroom, open-plan living, fresh paint, new carpets and hard flooring. Master with WIR, private courtyard with pergola. Close to Community Centre. Reverse cycle A/C, garage, separate laundry & WC. Your perfect retreat awaits!

ERG’s ‘asks’ for the East

The Eastern Region Group of Councils’ (ERG) purpose is to provide a united voice for communities in Melbourne’s east.

With an election likely to be called any day, the ERG has identified priorities for the region that require ongoing collaboration and Federal Government investment to ensure the region not only grows sustainably but thrives.

ERG Chair, Cr Deirdre Diamante, said the group has identified a range of projects that recognise the challenges facing the region that will be exacerbated by rapid growth.

“Housing affordability, liveability, access to open space and community infrastructure, addressing climate concerns such as flooding, improving public and active transport and growing the local economy are central to a liveable and prosperous region,” Cr Diamante said.

“The five ERG councils are Knox, Manningham, Maroondah, Whitehorse and Yarra Ranges. We work together on common challenges for the region. We advocate, plan and cooperate for the benefit of our communities.

“With a population of 750,000, around 14 per cent of metropolitan Melbourne, it is imperative that the Federal Government continue to invest in longer-term planning, infrastructure and services to keep the region thriving.”

The ERG’s priorities for Federal Government action include:

• Address financial sustainability

The ERG supports the Australian Local Government Association’s call to increase the Financial Assistance Grants to councils to at least one per cent of tax revenue.

• Support housing growth

With the release of State Government housing targets, the east is expected to accommodate a 78 per cent increase in houses by 2050.

Councils require dedicated community infrastructure funding to be able to continue to meet critical community needs.

Regional strategies, such as for open space are essential to guide investment. Communities

After 14 amazing years as the proud owners of our craft business, we've decided it's time for a new chapter in our lives. Although we're saying goodbye to our bricks-and-mortar store, we're not really saying goodbye to you! We hope the wonderful memories you have from visiting our store will inspire you to continue shopping with us online through our website. We’re excited to keep offering a variety of premium Australian and imported yarns, patterns and haberdashery. While we’ll be gradually reducing our sewing supplies and fabric options.

You can still pick up your online orders in person!

StartingMarch5th,we'llbeattheHealesvilleLibraryeveryWednesday from11amto1pm.

Just place your order online, choose "pick up" at checkout, and make sure to submit your orders before 10 am each Wednesday for a same-day pickup. It's a great spot to drop by and pickup your orders or if there's a yarn, pattern, or any of our products you're curious about, just shoot us an email before Wednesday, and we'll make sure to bring it along for you to check out.

are also crying out for safer public spaces and the ERG with work with crime prevention partners to achieve this.

• Build climate resilience

Improved cooperation across all levels of government is needed to respond to climate challenges.

Improving flood infrastructure in known areas of risk is a regional priority, along with addressing the decline in canopy tree cover and furthering the work done by the Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action to enable community assets to adapt.

• Transform movement in the east

To maintain liveable and prosperous neighbourhoods, public and active transport and road infrastructure must improve.

The region requires coordinated and collaborative effort to build on the work of the ERG’s Plan East and the shared priorities of the Eastern Transport Coalition and Eastern Regional Trail Strategy Group. With Federal assistance, the ERG will prepare an Integrated Transport Plan to support an efficient, safe and integrated regional transport network and identify priorities for investment.

This work will recognise the kilometres of unsealed roads that make the last mile connections to producers difficult and impede regional economic productivity.

The ERG will publish feedback from local candidates on their support of these priorities on the ERG website. See the ERG’s priorities for Federal Government action at: www.easternregiongroup. org.au

One of ERG’s priorities is support for housing growth in all five council areas. (File: 293970)

Rotary wishes come true

By Mikayla van Loon

In the spirit of giving and thanks the Rotary Club of Lilydale expressed its sincere gratitude to those across the Yarra Ranges who hosted and supported the 2024 Wishing Tree project with a dinner earlier this week.

Bringing together representatives from all 35 businesses, community groups and individuals on Tuesday 25 February, the night celebrated yet another successful year of gift giving.

The donations, which primarily supported Anchor Community Care and the Yarra Ranges Proactive Policing Unit, also exceeded expectations enabling Rotary to provide gifts to Anglicare, Oonah, Boorndawan Willam Aboriginal Healing Service and Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service.

“This is the fourth year we’ve run the appeal. We can’t even imagine making any difference at Christmas time without having the backing of people like yourselves. In many ways, this is also your project. Together, we can make a difference,” Wishing Tree coordinator Gerry Van Horick said.

“There was an increased uncertainty compared to the previous year about what the outcome would be due to ever increasing cost of living pressures that affect many people in the community.

“However, we were completely blown away with the level of support and the level of giving that seemed to increase in line with the increasing level of need in the community. People were very generous in their gifts and gift cards donated exceeded last year’s totals.”

Mr Van Horick said it was not only the desire of the businesses to host a collection point but their effort to promote and advertise the appeal to their individual communities that saw last year’s donation drive do so well.

“You all made a contribution and put in, whatever your efforts and contribution it is very much appreciated. It has made a difference. Every gift is a gift. It made a difference to someone at Christmas time,” he said.

Anchor Community Care chief executive officer Heidi Tucker said she was once again “astonished” by the “compassion and generosity” of the community but also the growth in the project year on year.

“Your commitment to bringing joy to children and families who are struggling at Christmas is absolutely heart warming and inspiring. We can’t underestimate the life changing impact that receiving presents from caring and compassionate strangers can mean for children, young people and families across Australia,” she said.

“The reality is there are too many young people who spend Christmas in tents, boarding houses, motels and in the child protection system. Christmas is especially hard for young people in these situations, they’re painfully aware of how different their lives are compared to their friends and peers.

“The gifts you collect are so much more than just a present for these young people, they make children feel seen, special and valid, something their circumstances rarely allow for.”

Ms Tucker spoke of one story, a 12-year-old boy, who with his mother and sisters escaped family violence and were homeless. He received a bike from the Wishing Tree appeal.

“His mother was overjoyed by the donation, as her son had been asking for a bike, but she knew she wouldn’t be able to afford one. Thanks to the generosity of this community, you have helped us

to turn a difficult year for them into one that ends with hope,” she said.

For them, that was just the beginning of their hope, securing a private rental this year through Anchor’s support and with a bike, Ms Tucker said, this young boy will have the freedom to see friends and “feel normal”.

Attending the dinner on behalf of Leading Senior Constable Luke Egginton, Proactive Policing Unit Senior Constable Kate Isherwood spoke of the positive impact and connection the gifts have allowed.

“Often we visit people who have come into police contact. They’re either victims of a crime or they’ve been caught up in a crime, and usually there’s another underlying reason for how they found themselves in that situation and come into police contact,” she said.

“The Wishing Tree Project has actually given us a gift as the proactive unit, more than you’d know. When we come into contact with people, it’s not a good day for those people. It’s not a good day for us.

“However, we’ve been able to break down some barriers, we’ve been able to use the Wishing Tree Project to meet the people who are normally a little bit reluctant to see us. I cannot explain how good that has been for breaking down barriers and encouraging our community that we all live in to come to us when they need support.”

SC Isherwood said the stories heard through the project were extremely touching and showed just how valuable a gift can be in bringing joy and hope.

“While handing out the gifts to some of the parents, they shared some of their stories, of their life challenges, the ones they currently face and have faced, and it was clear as to why I was met with tears of joy and appreciation,” she said.

Many of those involved in the 2024 Wishing Tree have already put their hand up for the 2025 appeal.

Anchor Community Care chief executive officer Heidi Tucker. (462358)

Proactive Policing Unit Senior Constable Kate Isherwood. (462358)

Casey MP Aaron Violi. (462358)Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence. (462358)

Community Bank Mount Evelyn representative John Stroud with Rotary president Des Shiel and Anchor CEO Heidi Tucker. (462358)

Rotary member and Fully Promoted Glen Waverley owner Arun Marappan. (462358)

Lilydale Heights College Interact Club student representatives. (462358)

Your Library Lilydale representatives Robin and Deb. (462358)

Jellis

Craig representative Lindsay. (462358)

Cire Services representatives Emily and Janine receiving their certificates of thanks from Rotary president Des Shiel and Anchor CEO Heidi Tucker. (462358)

The Wishing Tree project was supported by 35 businesses and organisations in 2024. Each one was thanked on Tuesday 25 February. (Mikayla van Loon: 462358)

Healesville one of the first

By Dongyun Kwon

The Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) is turning 50 on 5 March.

The SES Healesville Unit was one of the first units established before the Civil Defence Organisation changed to VICSES.

In 1950, the emergency service was first established as a volunteer-based Civil Defence Organisation which could quickly be activated in the event of war.

The Healesville Unit was established in 1968, as part of Civil Defence.

In 1975, the Civil Defence Organisation was renamed to conform with other Australian states, and the VICSES was born.

Since then, VICSES has grown to include over 5000 volunteers and more than 350 staff.

Geoff Wilkinson, the longest-serving member of the Healesville Unit, has served the unit for 45 years.

Mr Wilkinson was the unit controller in 1991 when the unit moved to the current premises at 20 Argoon Road, Healesville.

He said the unit site was moved twice after he joined the unit.

“The first office that I went to was under the Healesville Shire’s office on the main street,” Mr Wilkinson said.

“The second one was down near the (Healesville Railway) Station.”

The current unit controller, Karen Picone, started working for the local SES unit in 2001 after she moved to Healesville, originally signing up to engage in fund-raise work.

“Originally, my husband joined the unit, and

then I joined to do fundraising, and then I became involved in finance, (after that,) I became a deputy controller,” she said.

“I was controller for almost 10 years and stepped away (from the position) in 2015.

“I was still in the SES but only doing major emergencies.”

She stepped back into the role of unit controller in May last year when there were only eight members left in the Healesville Unit.

Ms Picone and the whole Healesville crew

worked together to revive the unit, and the unit has recruited 17 more members so far.

The VICSES has always been central to rescuing people in danger across the state, and the volunteers operate from 154 units across the state, in addition to 16 permanently staffed offices in regional and metro locations.

As for everyone else in the community, Black Saturday bushfires were a difficult time for the Healesville SES Unit as well.

Ms Picone said everyone pulled together to do

what needed to be done during the Black Saturday bushfires.

“Geoff and one more unit member saved a woman from the Marysville fire (where) the ambulance couldn’t go through,” she said.

“They got her in Narbethong and brought her down, who was very badly burnt.

“I tried to reassure a lot of people in the community, and afterwards I got told that my presence was reassuring them.”

As VICSES turns 50, let’s take a look at the history

By Oliver Winn

VICSES will turn 50 on Wednesday 5 March, marking five decades of providing essential emergency services to those in need all over Victoria.

VICSES has responded to some of Victoria’s most historic and challenging emergency events such as Ash Wednesday, Black Saturday and Victoria’s strongest earthquake in Mansfield.

Established in 1972, the Upper Yarra SES unit has its own rich history serving the unique challenges posed by the Yarra Ranges area.

Ex Upper Yarra SES member Bob Sanders joined in 1991 when the unit only had 12 members, which were mainly older men who had worked as mechanics or panel beaters.

At the time, the unit had limited resources and equipment, with only two vehicles and a hydraulic rescue tool, also known as the jaws of life.

Before the Upper Yarra SES was called the SES, it was known as the Civil Defence Organisation - a volunteer organisation which could be quickly mobilised in the event of war or other emergencies.

The Upper Yarra Civil Defence Organisation’s first-ever unit controller was Bill Brown.

Mr Sanders worked with Mr Brown when he was unit controller and said he was a terrific person to start the SES up.

A regimented, passionate and highly successful man, Mr Brown led the Upper Yarra Civil Defence Organisation unit as a ‘reserve army type operation’ with methodical rigour.

“He definitely spent a lot of time thinking

about every scenario and how we could achieve the best outcome for everything that happened,”

Mr Sanders said.

The unit had barely any resources and so Mr Brown would outsource the equipment he

needed from the community.

“He had an ability to go out and source people and say: ‘Look, if this happens, who can I rely on for these resources’,”he said.

Mr Sanders said Mr Brown’s dream was to have an army that could tackle anything and if he saw Upper Yarra’s SES unit today, he’d think highly of the way it’s run.

Back when Mr Sanders was a part of SES, the unit was run like a family-orientated organisation, with weekly meetings on a Thursday night where members would chat over homecooked meals about their plans for the month ahead of them.

Another ex-Upper Yarra SES member was Michael Young, who joined in 1998.

When he joined, the SES unit shared its headquarters with the local CFA and would cooperate when responding to emergencies in the area.

By this point, the unit was better resourced with three vehicles and four trailers and was considered a larger unit.

“The unit was fairly well sectioned with teams for road rescue, search and rescue, tree damage and stuff like that,” Mr Young said.

Now the Upper Yarra SES unit is led by unit controller Hannah Brunton, the unit’s fourthever unit controller, and the first female one too.

“It’s amazing that they serve a long time and are so dedicated to it,” Mr Sanders said.

L-R: Russell Wulf and Bob Sanders with Rescue Equipment. (File: 137107)

Healesville SES has always been central to rescuing people in danger in the local community. (Stewart Chambers: 460685)

Healesville SES now. (460685)

Healesville SES in 1991. (460685)

Firewood areas open

Victorians will be able to collect free firewood for personal use from designated state forest firewood collection areas from 1 March 2025. This autumn, there are 19 firewood collection areas that will be available across the Port Phillip Region.

The autumn firewood season ends on 30 June 2025, but collectors are reminded individual collection areas may close earlier if there is no more firewood available.

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) Director Forest and Fire Operations Port Phillip, Tamara Beckett, urged collectors to play it safe and check local weather conditions as well as their planned route before heading into the forest.

“With parts of the state affected by bushfires, access to some firewood collection areas might be restricted until conditions are safe.

“When collecting, please drive only on formed roads, be aware of the environment around you and the safety of yourself and others as trees may fall or drop limbs without warning,” she said.

Ms Beckett said people can collect up to two cubic metres per person per day with a maximum of 16 cubic metres per household per financial year. She encouraged people who rely on firewood for heating and cooking to plan for their needs early.

Financial assistance is available for people on low incomes who need to buy firewood: www. ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood/energy-concessionand-support.

Find your local collection area and information about collecting firewood here: www.ffm.vic. gov.au/firewood/firewood-collection-in-your-region. Maps will be live from midnight, Saturday 1 March. An interactive map includes details about vehicle access, while pdf maps include safety and other practical information.

Within designated collection areas, collectors can collect and cut wood that is on the ground due to natural fall or forest and fire management

works. Heavy penalties apply to anyone who cuts down a tree, living or dead.

Wood will be of varying sizes and may not be the same quality as the firewood sold by a commercial cutter. A wheelbarrow may be needed to transport wood to the vehicle as it cannot leave tracks.

“Most people do the right thing and stick to

the collection limits, but people should know authorised officers will be patrolling to catch those who aren’t,” said Ms Beckett.

Authorised Officers can issue fines of more than $769 to those caught breaking the firewood collection rules. More serious offending can result in maximum penalties of $9,879 and/or 12 months in prison. Authorised Officers can also

seize chainsaws, trailers, vehicles, and equipment that’s used in the commission of offending.

Community members can find out more about collecting firewood and report any suspected illegal firewood collection by calling 136 186.

Firewood collection sites are now open. (Supplied)

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Women vital to business

As International Women’s Day approaches on 8 March, we celebrate the remarkable women transforming traditional industries in our community.

When Andrea and her husband Mark purchased Yarra Junction H Hardware in January 2023, they inherited more than just a local business – they took on a challenge that would showcase female leadership, resilience, and innovation in an industry traditionally dominated by men.

Andrea, a former registered nurse with an emergency background and clinical management experience, traded her medical expertise for hardware knowledge. Alongside her is a powerhouse team of women who have defied career stereotypes and brought fresh perspectives to hardware retail.

“The systems hadn’t been updated in 13 years,” Andrea said.

Andrew and co-worker Dorothy quickly recognised the need for modernisation, and with Dorothy also having transitioned from two decades in employment services and nursing care, they revamped everything from inventory management to staff training programs.

Store Manager Shelly brings an unexpected background – 14 years as a chef followed by a decade as a stay-at-home mother of five, where she taughtherselfhomerenovationskillsthroughonline videos.

“There’s no DIY question Shelly can’t answer,” Andrea said.

Shop assistant Kirsty contributes hands-on

experience as a former fibreglass operator and two-time owner-builder, having completed renovations from foundation to finish. Weekend assistant Angela rounds out the team with her deep product knowledge and local connections.

The women have transformed the business, replacing outdated technology, implementing efficient inventory systems, and reducing stock items from 24,000 to 11,000 well-curated products. They’ve made physical improvements too – concreting the previously muddy timber yard and introducing equipment to improve workplace safety.

Looking forward, the team plans initiatives specifically designed to empower women in DIY, including ladies’ nights featuring demonstrations on tool usage and home maintenance basics like changing tap washers and installing curtain rails.

Their story represents the changing face of retail hardware – bringing customer service, organisational excellence, and practical knowledge together through diverse female perspectives.

As International Women’s Day celebrates achievements toward gender equality, Yarra Junction H Hardware stands as a testament to what women can accomplish in any industry when given the opportunity to lead.

Follow Yarra Junction H Hardware on Facebook for updates on their women-focused events and community initiatives.

Find strength in the team at Yarra Junction H Hardware. (Supplied)

Donna’s leading the way

By Oliver Winn

Woori Yallock Football Netball Club’s (WYFNC) first female president has been selected for the AFL’s Lead Your Way program this season.

Donna McLennan was voted in as president last November and decided to apply for AFL’s Lead Your Way program which aims to upskill women and gender diverse people in leadership roles around Victoria.

Ms McLennan came into the club after working in the construction industry and said her goal was for WYFNC to become the “best club possible” in the Yarra Valley.

“I’m coming from a strategic business point on trying to grow the club and for it to become the best club possible in the Yarra Valley,” Ms McLennan said.

When it comes to the Lead Your Way program, she said she’s excited for “the whole thing” such as networking events, skills workshops and online webinars all about how to run a club.

“I believe that it’s a really good place for skill development and also to build on networks as well,” Ms McLennan said.

Navigating the male dominated world of football, Ms McLennan aims to provide a more inclusive environment for women at the club.

But, she finds the attitude towards women in sport at WYFNC isn’t the problem - it’s the lack of facilities accommodating towards women at the club that needs to be addressed.

“I don’t find that it’s necessarily about the boys don’t accept the women being there - they’re definitely on board with that,” Ms McLennan said.

“It’s more about not having those facilities for women.”

“We’re looking at upgrading our change rooms, because I believe we’re the last club in the Yarra Valley that does not have change rooms that accommodate women.”

Being a non-for-profit organisation, WYFNC has to source its money from government and

council grants, obstructing Ms McLennan’s ability to implement key facilities.

She said she’d already applied for governmental grants but they were rejected, which has left the club to fundraise the rest.

Though the club has plenty of volunteers happy to contribute their time, the hardest part

is finding people who are willing to donate to the club.

Despite this, Ms McLennan plans to run some fun events while she is president, such as a golf ball helicopter drop with a $10,000 price.

Since she’s still only new to the role, she said there’s a little bit of pressure to succeed, which is

part of the reason why she applied for the Lead Your Way program.

But even still, Ms McLennan said she’s surrounded by a great club and believes “everyone is an absolute asset”.

In the end, it’s a team effort.

“They’re just a great bunch to have.”

Yarra Glen Cricket Club to celebrate their history

By Dongyun Kwon

Yarra Glen Cricket Club House was crowded with about 100 people reminiscing the past years of the club in the Yarra Valley Cricket Association.

The cricket club competed in the Yarra Valley Cricket Association from 1961 to 2021.

The special reunion event was hosted on Sunday 23 February to celebrate those 60 years, following the success of the last year’s event.

Yarra Glen Cricket Club president Travis Gloury said it was an opportunity to reconnect with past players.

“As part of the event, we thought it was appropriate to acknowledge significant contributions from different people over those years,” he said.

“We inducted three legends and also inducted three hall of famers.

“We put a small committee together of people who had been at the club over the bulk of those years to select the best team of those years.”

A special match between past players and current players was a highlight of the day.

Cowan brothers led each team as skippers; Andrew Cowan led the past players team, Phil Cowan led the current players team.

Gloury said the game was played in a friendly atmosphere with a slight competitive tension.

“Andrew Cowan is a significant past player and got some good contacts with the whole group of past players of his years over the last 15 or 20 years,” he said.

“He was able to put a past players team together.”

Club Legends: Les Weller, Norm Hargreaves and Maurice Adams.

Inductees into the club Hall of Fame: John Orren, David Ball and Tom Davey.

Best 12 players to represent the club in the 60 years the club competed in the Yarra Valley Cricket Association (criteria - minimum 30 games):

Merv Hubbard

David Ball

Craig Sarre

Maurice Adams (c)

Luke Sarre

Geoff McBride (wk)

Norm Hargreaves

(L-R): Phil Adams, David Ball, Maurice Adams, Lionel Lazarus (Brudenell), Brian Milsom, Geoff McBride. (Supplied)

Past players team (back L-R): Russell Cowan, Chris Foster, Mark Clare, Corey Parant, Jimmy Lusk, Dan Whelan, Nick Foster, Grant Braden, (Front L-R): Lachlan Crawford, Tyson Oates, Andrew Cowan, John Orren.

Nick Foster partnering John Orren at the crease.

Donna McLennan will use the skills she learns at AFL’s Lead Your Way program to improve Woori Yallock Football Netball Club. (File: 283158)

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Why skin health matters

As the golden hues of summer transition to the rich, warm tones of autumn, many of us are packing away our swimwear and bringing out cosy sweaters. But as the seasons change, it’s crucial to remember that skin health should remain a priority year-round. At QHealth - Lilydale Doctors, our skin clinic offers comprehensive skin checks that can make a life- saving difference, even as temperatures begin to cool.

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer globally, with two in three Australians diagnosed with skin cancer by age 70. While our sun-loving lifestyle is wonderful, it exposes us to a higher risk of UV damage throughout the year. What many don’t realise is that harmful UV rays persist even on cloudy autumn days, continuing to pose a risk long after summer has ended.

Early detection of skin cancer dramatically increases the chances of successful treatment, making regular skin checks a critical aspect of your health routine regardless of the season.

“Skin cancer doesn’t discriminate by age, gender, or time of year—it can happen to anyone” Lilydale Doctors GP and cosmetic physician skin specialist Dr Binay Kumar said.

“That’s why routine checks are valuable yearround, not just during summer months when UV awareness is typically higher.”

A skin check is quick and non-invasive, and if a suspicious spot is found, our experienced team can guide you through the next steps, including biopsy, treatment, or ongoing monitoring.

“Self-monitoring is a great way to stay on top of any changes, but an annual check by a trained

professional can catch what might otherwise go unnoticed,”Dr Tina Zhong said.

“Autumn is actually an ideal time for a skin check, as summer tans fade and changes in your skin become more visible.”

One of the most powerful ways to protect your community is by encouraging friends and family to prioritise skin checks. Many people delay getting checked due to busy schedules or simply not recognising the importance. Your gentle reminder could be the motivation they need.

“We often see patients who come in because a spouse, child, or friend noticed something concerning and encouraged them to get it checked,” Dr Kumar said.

“These conversations can literally save lives.”

Consider making skin checks a family affair by

scheduling appointments together. This not only provides mutual support but also establishes healthy habits for younger generations. For elderly parents or relatives who may be less mobile, offering to accompany them to appointments can make all the difference.

Remember that skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early. By normalizing regular skin checks within your social circle, you’re contributing to a culture of preventative health care that benefits everyone.

Who Should Get Checked? Everyone, regardless of skin type or age, can benefit from an annual skin check.

Don’t wait for summer to return! Book your skin check today online or call 03 9088 8177 and make skin health a priority this autumn.

Prioritise a skin cancer check this autumn. (File)

Harmful UV rays can persist in autumn.

CAPTURING THE YARRA RANGES

CCTV network vital for police

By Mikayla van Loon

CCTV can be a critical tool for police whether investigating a criminal incident, locating a missing person or piecing together a timeline.

That’s why the Yarra Ranges Safety Camera Network was initiated.

Last week, Star Mail presented the background on the who, what, when, where and why when it came to funding, the purpose of the cameras and which towns had them installed.

This week, the editorial team compiled the many incidents that have been reported on in the last few years where the CCTV networks were funded.

Star Mail journalist Mikayla van Loon also sat down with Mooroolbark Police Sergeant Cal Cunningham to better understand the use, benefit and need of CCTV in the Yarra Ranges.

To begin, Sgt Cunningham explained that cameras are hosted by businesses across the townships with signal boxes also installed to carry the footage back to the police station.

These can be spread not just along main streets but throughout the town centres and typically capture large sections of the immediate vicinity.

“The way the system works, it’s like Wi-Fi signals or almost like any phone tower. It then relays back to the police station,” he said.

Unfortunately, things like tree branches, signage and anything else that may block or obstruct the signal box has an impact on how well the signal carries.

“We’ve got some systems that seem to be working quite well. There’s others that are needing maintenance. One of the big issue ones is Lilydale because, one, it’s dated but also when they redid the train station it interrupted the signal.

“Because of the rail line and when it was getting built, it’s taken out a lot of the senses, causing a lot of problems.”

When maintained and fully operational Sgt Cunningham said the camera network is invaluable to both live police investigations and accessing footage after the fact.

“It’s done a lot of good work, especially for the detectives at Yarra Ranges CIU and a lot of their investigations have had good results because there’s a camera,” he said.

“So if an incident occurred overnight, the detectives could access the system and actually review it without having to go up and do a canvas.

“One thing we do is look at local businesses and homeowners that might have cameras but if we’ve got the community cameras up and running properly, it saves detectives time and travel to those remote areas if we’ve got footage we can directly access back at the station.”

Sgt Cunningham said it has also been especially useful in live tracking incidents, sometimes overnight when a unit is stationed elsewhere, to view an incident playing out in real time.

“It’s a rarity to have a police unit based in say Healesville overnight. The closest police station is Lilydale,” he said.

“So again, that’s another reason having these cameras available, when they’re working prop-

erly, if there’s an incident in Healesville, we can hook in at a police station and see what’s going on because of the time it takes for a police unit to get up there.”

This may mean the officer in the watch house can give updates on a situation as a unit attends or track the direction an offender may flee in.

Even post investigation, CCTV footage can be vital for evidence in court and limiting the trauma victims may face.

“CCTV can also save victims additional trauma of having to go to court because that can be scary and traumatic, for witnesses too, even though they’re not directly involved, but they’ve seen it happening,” Sgt Cunningham said.

“If there’s footage and it’s clear what’s happened, that can lead to early pleas of the court, so it doesn’t tie up the court system. It’s a good result for victims because the offender understands the camera shows the incident and will plead guilty rather than putting people through the pain.”

Given the age of some of the cameras, Sgt Cunningham said while some systems like the one in Monbulk, which has been well maintained by the township group, are probably not in need of replacing, others have reached the end of life.

“Upgrading the newer systems is probably not necessary but if we think of it as a bit of a rolling project, starting with the older areas, start where

we need the cameras the most so that would be Lilydale, Healesville and Mooroolbark, which are some of the older systems as well as the larger ones.

“Obviously, where we have more issues is where we want to target.”

The advancement in technology since the installation of the initial cameras, Sgt Cunningham said, would most likely have improved exponentially, providing higher quality images with better clarity, which is also a foundational reason for wanting to see upgrades to the systems.

The use and access to community-based CCTV footage can be instrumental in police investigations and live tracking of incidents. (File)

CAPTURING THE YARRA RANGES Criminal incidents spike

By Dongyun Kwon

As part of the CCTV campaign, Star Mail looked back at the significant incidents in each township after the CCTV network was not maintained properly due to the lack of funding.

After crime peaked across Yarra Ranges in 2016, there was a correlation between CCTV cameras being installed and the reduction in crime over the next three years but it cannot be confirmed if one impacted the other directly.

The number of total crime incidents peaked in 2016 with a total number of 6308.

The number reduced by 7.3 per cent in 2017 and dropped again by 5.7 per cent in the following year.

After the final funding was distributed, the incident number soared dramatically by 10.8 per cent in 2019 and increased by 3.8 per cent again in the following year.

What criminal incidents happened in Yarra Glen and Healesville after the CCTV network was not maintained properly?

2019

In April, the Healesville Jewellers was targeted by thieves who stole a wooden puzzle box.

Police told the Star Mail that a male and female offender entered the store, and left without paying for the item.

2021

Shorelec Electrical Wholesaler was targeted by thieves who set off with thousands of dollars worth of stock in a robbery in early May.

A few weeks later, his home was burgled again.

A group of youths comprising four females and three males attempted to break into the Yarra Glen Railway Station on Saturday 13 November. 2023

In March, Healesville Jewellers, the Sloppy Seconds clothing shop and Payten and Jones Winery were targeted for burglaries, leaving owners devastated.

The front window of over 30 years operated local jewellery shop was smashed in two places.

The store was mostly secure due to the alarm system and security shutters but a few items were stolen through the front window.

The shop owner was shaken up by the incident.

Sloppy Seconds lost about $300 worth of identifiable men’s designer clothing.

The clothing shop closed down in the following month.

It was the second time Payten and Jones Winery had been targeted.

The offenders tried to enter through the rear of the building, before smashing through a glass door on the side of the building, entering and then setting off the alarm.

Yarra Glen Primary School was targeted for a break-in in July.

The offenders broke into the Yarra Glen Primary School’s chicken coop, letting the chickens out in the process, and used the school’s own eggs in the offence, heading around to the front of the

school from the back where the coop was located and threw the eggs to the windows.

2024

When the severe storms hit the Yarra Valley in February, Healesville’s Monroe’s Burger and Beers found the impact of the storms even harsher due to an unexpected incident.

The team found someone had deliberately turned off their generator right before they reopened the shop after the severe weather event.

Everything in the fridges went off due to this incident, and the team lost $3000 worth of stock as well as three days of sales opportunity.

Overnight on a weekend in March, motor vehicles were broken into on Furmston Lane in Healesville.

Saint Paul’s Anglican Church Yarra Glen was attacked by vandals in October.

The offenders broke the windows with stones and smashed a downpipe.

In November, rubbish bins on Healesville main street were set on fire.

Healesville CFA captain Brian Earl told the Star Mail someone had set two rubbish bins alight and had tried to set two more bins alight.

Terminus Hotel in Healesville was targeted for a burglary just after midnight on 18 December.

2025

9News reported a staff member of the Village Grocer was allegedly punched several times by a gang of teenagers.

On 2 January, the Healesville grocery store worker tried to stop the three teenagers who al-

legedly stole bottles of alcohol before attempting to run from the scene.

The store worker was allegedly punched in the head and kicked several times by the teenage girls.

On 28 February, the Star Mail confirmed with the Victoria Police the investigation for this incident remained ongoing.

The latest incident happened on Sunday 23 February in Healesville.

Cherry Tree Cafe owner Stephen Tuohy was shocked when he opened the cafe around 7.30am as he found the back garden was messed up.

Mr Tuohy’s partner Petra Buest who runs the cafe with him said Mr Tuohy saw plants turned over and a trolley, which was normally in the storeroom, in the middle of the garden.

“Our back gate was broken open and then (Stephen) went in and saw that the storeroom door was open as well, which (the offenders) had broken open,” she said.

“We had certain items in the storage, which were taken.

“One of them was an antique coffee machine. We had five fans that we were going to put into the shop that were taken and an electric bike that was taken as well.

“A wine fridge and some beverages were taken too.”

On that night, people were staying in the Airbnb accommodation located upstairs in the same building.

Ms Buest said they assumed the break-in hap-

pened around 1.30am.

“The Airbnb users woke up and they saw a person entering the door (around 1.30am),” she said.

“They thought it might have been us, cleaner or someone else, and they didn’t think anything more of it.

“They were able to leave a statement with the police, confirming that there had been a person in and confirming the time as well.”

The cafe owners had planned to install a CCTV camera in the back garden before the incident happened, originally to check whether the tables were empty or not through their mobile phones.

“(The offenders) didn’t come from the front of the cafe. The whole cafe hasn’t been disturbed at all. They came from the backside,” Ms Buest said.

“We were surprised by it because we thought (if someone broke into our cafe,) they were going to enter from the front and maybe try and look for money.

“We didn’t think that someone would know what’s in that storeroom. It’s so unusual that they would just target the storeroom.”

The cafe owner raised concerns regarding the increased criminal incidents in the town.

“It’s frustrating because there are others who have been targeted,” Ms Buest said.

“The next door was targeted as well but they didn’t get through.

“The Terminus (Hotel Healesville) was targeted as well. I’ve read it in the newspaper.”

The break in at Payten and Jones Winery in 2023.

Cherry Tree Cafe’s store room was broken into on Sunday 23 February, 2025. (Dongyun Kwon: 462643)

Rubbish bins on the main street of Healesville were set on fire in 2024. (File)

One of the egged windows at Yarra Glen Primary School in 2023. (File)

Saint Paul’s Anglican Church Yarra Glen was attacked by vandals in 2024. (Dongyun Kwon: 440742)

CAPTURING THE YARRA RANGES Criminal incidents ‘rife’

By Callum Ludwig

In recent years, a number of incidents have occurred in and near the town centres of the Upper Yarra impacting businesses and community facilities.

Active and operational CCTV could have played an important role in identifying offenders or helping uncover what happened but cameras pledged and installed have been shut off.

One of the most costly criminal incidents to hit the Upper Yarra community in recent years was the damage done to the Seville War Memorial in September 2023.

It took until February 2025 for the memorial to be restored to its former glory, requiring government and community bank grants to remove the damaged panels and recreate and install replacements.

President of the Seville Township Group Graeme Black said in March 2024 that they hoped to increase the security of the memorial when it was restored.

“We’re imminently expecting CCTV cameras which will capture this area and then along the highway, these have all been passed and funded by the Federal Government and so we expect that to happen fairly soon,” he said.

Another major incident in Seville was the firebombing of the tobacconist in February 2024 which not only destroyed the shopfront but damaged the nearby dentist and Branded Burgers and Bar restaurant.

An individual was later arrested, interviewed and released pending further enquiries in relation to the incident, which was linked to crossborder illicit tobacco trafficking conducted by an organised crime group.

In Wandin North, a police investigation into an alleged armed robbery of a business in the shopping precinct took several months and required multiple digital images to be developed to release to the public.

The incident occurred on 4 September 2024 and police released their first digital image, believed to be of a 60 per cent likeness to the offender and depicting a blue-eyed man in a hoodie and with his mouth covered, at the start of December. The following week, a further digital image of ‘excellent’ likeness was released with the man now uncovered with medium-length blonde hair and a long beard. An arrest was made on 17 December after police executed a search warrant at a Monbulk address.

Another incident in the Wandin North business precinct in June 2024 caused thousands of dollars of damage.

CCTV in the TerryWhite Chemmart in Wandin North captured two individuals attempting to break in with a sledgehammer or other large tool just before 4am on Sunday 2 June, heading straight to the dispensary once inside before resorting to stealing some stock, believed to have fled in the direction of Lilydale having come from Seville.

Owner of the TerryWhite Chemmart Nabih Barsoum said at the time he thought some upgrades to security on the strip of shops could help.

“If we had more cameras in that strip, we could capture them from all different directions,

which would help identify them more, we need fixed cameras, not just by the shop owners, because you cannot force them to do it,” he said.

“More light as well, I’ve got my own light out the front of the pharmacy but everywhere else is so dark as well,”

“We need to come up with a plan for the whole strip because it’s attractive for criminals and they will keep coming back.”

In September 2024, Yarra Junction man Jason Wong was killed following a potential road rage incident. Witnesses said Mr Wong was being tailgated by a driver in a green Holden Commodore on the Warburton Highway before both drivers came to a stop near the intersection with Elvian Road, just down from the Woori Yallock township. Mr Wong stopped to assess some damage to his vehicle, potentially from the other driver hitting his car, while the other driver drove off. Mr Wong’s vehicle then rolled back into a ditch, pinning him underneath and he later died at the scene. Police called for the driver of the other vehicle to come forward.

In Yarra Junction, a couple of violent incidents in the township in recent years could have been caught on CCTV.

In April 2022, a 15-year-old boy was charged after glassing a 16-year-old victim with a broken glass bottle on the corner of Hoddle Street and Warburton Highway.

Just up the road in July 2023, police investigated an assault in the vicinity of a supermarket in Yarra Junction, likely the Woolworths, where a male and female were involved in an altercation.

Back on the roads, a number of hoon incidents in March 2022 in the Upper Yarra prompted a crackdown from police where they sought to find multiple offenders who encouraged and competed with each other throughout the region.

This wasn’t the first time hoon drivers hit the Upper Yarra either, with the Wesburn-Millgrove Fire Station left with skid marks in August 2021 after a driver did burnouts out the front. This incident was caught on CCTV footage of the scene, though the black and white footage and the bright headlights of the vehicle made gathering evi-

dence from it tricky.

Millgrove facilities were also targeted by vandals twice in as many weeks in January-February 2023, damaging the River Valley Church van and ripping out a fence gate and smashing a lock at the Millgrove Preschool.

An alleged arsonist from McMahon’s Creek who struck late at night in the Upper Yarra in August 2024 before handing themselves in in Wangaratta the next day could have been caught on CCTV when travelling the Warburton Highway between Don Valley, Warburton and McMahons Creek where he struck.

There have been a number of incidents in Warburton in recent years where CCTV could have helped in investigations.

Police arrested a 23-year-old Warburton man at a venue on the Warburton Highway in Warburton in August 2022 following a stabbing that resulted in another man being airlifted to hospital. Investigations were ongoing the following day while police continued to investigate the circumstances of the incident.

Glenn Usher-Clarke tragically murdered Warburton man Martin Sheahan in his home in January 2022 before fleeing the scene to take his own life in the toilets at Wesburn Park while emergency services attended the Sheahan household. While it was not necessary in the end, CCTV could have captured Usher-Clarke as he fled the scene if he continued to try to escape.

Police released a digital image of man of an alleged pervert in Warburton who exposed himself to a 17-year-old girl by the Yarra River near the Redwood Centre before leaving the scene.

CCTV footage was used in the investigation of a suspicious fire in the old IGA building in Warburton in June 2022 where a male and female were caught on camera near the scene close to the time of the fire overnight. Further CCTV footage could have helped capture their movements around the time of the blaze.

Warburton Police asked the public for assistance to help catch vandals who ‘egged’ and defaced the shopfront of the

Vintage

store in Warburton overnight between 31 October and 1 November 2024.

Charlie Horse

Clothing

TerryWhite Chemmart Wandin North was broken into. (File)

A hoon targeted the Wesburn-Millgrove fire station in 2022. (File)

The ‘excellent’ digital image of the alleged Wandin North armed robber. (File)

The Seville tobacconist after the firebombing. (File)

CAPTURING THE YARRA RANGES

Plague of criminal incidents

By Mikayla van Loon

From the smaller incidents of theft to ram raids, fires and vandalism that have plagued urban town centres over recent years, each could have been limited or at least easily investigated with active CCTV.

While a timeline of incidents would no doubt date back further, Star Mail has drawn upon its own archives since 2021 to piece together criminal incidents across Lilydale, Mooroolbark, Mount Evelyn and Montrose.

An incident that triggered community outcry was the suspicious blaze that sent the old Lilydale fire station up in flames in late May 2021.

The abandoned building on Main Street was destroyed by the fire and had to be demolished after finding it structurally unsound.

It had been known for smaller fires in the past, having been a location used by squatters in winter to keep warm.

In the lead up to Remembrance Day in November 2021, Lilydale RSL had three Poppy Appeal donation tins stolen from different locations across the township.

“The thefts occurred at a business on Castella Street on 26 October, and at two separate businesses on Hutchinson Street on 3 November and 5 November,” a police spokesperson said at the time.

Come 2022, vandalism was rife throughout Lilydale, seeing an increase in antisocial behaviour mostly from young people, attributed to boredom during the winter months.

While incidents of graffiti and bus stops being smashed occurred, a donation bin fire at the Lilydale Marketplace on Saturday 30 July sparked concern among many of the town’s groups and organisations.

Lilydale Township Action Group (LTAG) president Neal Taylor said at the time, there certainly had been a rise in frequency of events like this happening in Lilydale.

“We believe it’s something that’s happening more frequently now. We’ve had a couple of our committee members catch younger people doing vandalism and also graffiti,” he said.

“So it appears that there is a group of youths that seems to be causing a lot of problems.”

Although Lilydale does have a number of security cameras placed along Main Street, Mr Taylor said perhaps advocacy for more cameras in different locations would help deter these youth as well.

“There needs to be some cameras in the ‘behind the scenes’ areas like the football club, it needs to have one there. Stuff like that needs to be taken into account as well.

“It is very frustrating, particularly around the bus shelters and it seemed like it was a late night thing where they’ve come along and smashed it thinking it was fun. It’s incredibly annoying that

people can’t respect those sorts of things.”

Speaking to Star Mail in 2022, Mr Taylor didn’t want to draw attention to the lack of CCTV efficiency, given the increase in vandalism incidents but even then he was aware of the need to repair and replace the systems.

“There are security cameras in place but not all of them are working. A number of them have broken down, and there’s no money to fix them,” he said.

“They were put in place by all the businesses getting together and raising funds…they were set up, and they were maintained and all of the footage was fed to the police.

“But what we understand at LTAG is that a number of them aren’t working anymore. They’re obsolete and they need lots of repairs or replacements.”

In mid August, a Silver Navara 4WD ute was driven through the window of the Montrose IGA on Mt Dandenong Tourist Road.

The businesses own CCTV footage showed the vehicle being reversed between traffic bollards before crashing into the building, causing a smoke-based security system to be set off.

Montrose IGA owner Brad Munro said the security system was installed after another burglary incident in May 2021 and it was the first time it had been activated.

The following day, a man allegedly forced entry into the IGA around 7.30pm and grabbed the content of the till within the cash register before fleeing the scene.

“Our CCTV footage was enough to identify the type of car and the actual people. Once again that’s another system we’ve just upgraded,” Mr Munro said.

“We’ve got 34 cameras around the building and within it, along with the council’s CCTV they’re in the process of installing makes it hopefully a lot more secure.”

Victoria Police said a 33-year-old man was arrested after a carjacking in Bayswater on Tuesday 9 August, where it was “ascertained the man was involved in a burglary at a supermarket in Mt Dandenong Tourist Road early Tuesday morning” and the two incidents weren’t linked.

Mr Munro said it was the third time his business had been targeted, not to mention other incidents along the street.

“There have been some car thefts, there’s been a lot of graffiti, damage to buildings, damage to property, damage to council assets and hopefully with all these upgraded security measures we can curtail it a bit.”

Just days later on Thursday 9 August a Nissan Navara that was set alight on Castella Street, near Gardiner Street, with Yarra Ranges Criminal Investigation Unit detective senior constable Robert Plaucs saying police “believe it is the same vehicle from a burglary at Montrose IGA.”

It was the second car fire in the same week with firefighters responding to a similar call on Sunday 7 August on Bellbird Drive.

Det SC Plaucs confirmed the car fire on Sunday was connected to a burglary that occurred in Silvan not long before the incident.

“We’ve responded to five suspicious fires within the township in just over a week,” Lilydale CFA then executive manager Ron Haines said.

Mr Haines said at the time he wrote to Yarra Ranges Council to enquire about upgrading CCTV cameras around the town.

“Something needs to be done, the cameras need upgrading,” he said.

“It’s very concerning and we need the local community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or behaviour to the local police station or Crime Stoppers.”

A few weeks later Victoria Road Primary School became the target of further vandalism, with windows smashed and graffiti tags plastered across the school campus.

In a continuing and disappointing occurrence, war memorials were again a target of vandals in 2023, with Montrose and Seville bearing the brunt of the attacks.

The “mindless” act of scratching what appeared to be in the shape of a love heart into the Montrose War Memorial in February was just the first requiring quick repair.

Montrose was again targeted in two separate attacks of vandalism and a break in in November 2023, leaving the community outraged by the behaviour.

Members of the community awoke early on Saturday 11 November to find the war memorial had been vandalised with red spray paint in the lead up to the Remembrance Day service.

The historic cottage in the Town Centre, home of the Montrose Township Group, also had items stolen.

Just months prior in September, the Seville War Memorial had the glass panels smashed, leaving a costly replacement for the community, which was only fixed earlier this year.

The most recent incident to occur was the suspicious fire at the Lilydale Recreation Reserve grandstand on Wednesday 12 February this year.

“For weeks now, it’s been coming. They’ve been breaking the seats, leaving a stack of debris up there, having copious amounts of drugs, and with no real consequence, because there’s not much we can do but talk to the police,” Lilydale Cricket Club president Steve Oxley said.

A place noted by Mr Taylor three years earlier as a behind the scenes area, Mr Oxley said in February “we have no real surveillance” also under the impression that “the cameras have all been shut off”.

Mooroolbark Police Sergeant Cal Cunningham said when CCTV works, it is effective.

“There was an incident recently where an offender targeted a male on Brice Avenue, and some of the cameras captured that. That’s invaluable to have that kind of evidence,” he said.

“There’s been countless incidents. I can’t recall the specifics but where we hear over the radio that there’s an issue going on.

“We can give live updates to a police unit going out there that ‘yes, we can see the people and this is where they’re headed’. If we didn’t have that, they could just slip away, because it takes time for a police unit to get to a location where the cameras are live in an instant, so we can actually see what’s going on right away.”

Ranges crimes continue to rise and impact locals

By Tanya Steele

Across the Dandenong Ranges, CCTV could have been handy in the last few years with crime rises across the outer east flowing out to the hills.

While Belgrave and Upwey have installed systems dating back to 2018, other towns in the Ranges do not, relying on local businesses instead.

Some of the crime across the area in the last few years has been related to rises in the cost of living after Covid and substantial rises in vehicle theft in particular, with arson, theft and robberies topping the list.

Transit Crime Investigation Unit detectives were still investigating the circumstances surrounding a stalking incident that occurred on the Belgrave train line on the 3 December 2024 and the Ranges was the tragic site of a homicide Belgrave in March 2024 after a man died on a Sunday afternoon. It was believed two men got into an argument at a property on BelgraveGembrook Road about 4.30 pm, with a 35-yearold man dying at the scene.

In the same month, an IGA supermarket in Ferntree Gully was the site of an attempted bur-

The shopfront in Belgrave South after ram raids across the outer east carried up into the hills.

(File: 462957)

glary, with teens allegedly attempting to steal items from the business before one of the teenagers threatened a worker with a weapon - not a new situation to the staff there, who often deal with theft in the store.

A series of alleged fast-paced ram raids and aggravated burglaries saw three males charge in the eastern suburbs on Saturday 18 May -

with several service stations including ones in Tecoma and an IGA Belgrave South being hit overnight.

The alleged crimes saw several service stations and stores hit – with two underage males allegedly part of the spree.

The trend continued in June, when two teenage males were arrested in Ferntree Gully and Ringwood following a series of alleged burglaries and aggravated crimes in Upwey, the duo allegedly attempted to enter a premises in Glenfern Road overnight, where they left after being

disturbed by the occupant. Afterwards on the same night they allegedly stole two sets of car keys in Mahoney St from inside the premises and two vehicles from the property. Police apprehended one offender on Glenfern Road, Upper Ferntree Gully after he had collided with a roundabout and the second was arrested after crashing in the Mullum Mullum Tunnel, Ringwood.

The Kallista township saw Yarra Ranges Eyewatch release security footage online of a man appearing to vigorously smash a number of windows and doors at a well-known cafe in the town in early July 2024, while later that month as a young woman in her 20s drove home from Knox, she had a terrifying experience on her regular commute home coming up the ‘Devil’s elbow’ of the Mount Dandenong Tourist road when a car stopped across the road and two man emerged allegedly acting suspiciously, one holding a baseball bat.

Policehavebeenregularlyaskingforresidents and business owners who have CCTV fitted to their property to register with them for the last few years, suggesting a growing need for the current network to get upgrades and perhaps even expansions into townships with no coverage.

Police apprehended one offender on Glenfern Rd, Upper Ferntree Gully after he had collided with a roundabout. (Eyewatch)

Chairs in the grandstand, the adjoining back walls and the floorboards were damaged in the fire on Wednesday 12 February. (Lilydale CFA)

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Festival win strikes a chord

By Dongyun Kwon

A Healesville-based musician is looking forward to performing at The Basin Music Festival with his new guitar.

Robbie Greig won a songwriting contest held by The Basin Music Festival last year.

As a prize, he received a customised guitar made by renowned The Basin-based luthier Sachar Amos, who has contributed his talents to the music festival over the years.

The custom-made process took 11 months, and Greig recently received his prize, which he described as a “fine, beautiful instrument.”

“(Amos) asked me what kind of guitar I’d like, and he made it according to his specifications. He told me what woods there were and what sorts of styles there were,” he said.

“I chose to have a classical guitar with a pickup inside so that I can plug in it. He didn’t use any factory-built moulds, templates or anything. He did it all from scratch.

“I’ve visited his studio a number of times during that 11 months, and I’ve seen it in different stages of development, which has been really educational.”

He was stoked when he won the songwriting contest with his ballad song The Moon In The Man (For JR) written upon the death of his friend.

“It’s a fairly mellow song, given the theme. It’s about him as a songwriter and a musician,” Greig said.

“He expressed his feelings, and a lot of them were the beauty of the world and love, so I kind of think he was influenced by the moon.”

The musician and his guitar are now taking time to get to know each other more.

The Basin Music Festival marks its 20th anniversary held between 21 and 23 March.

Greig’s gig will start at 11am on Sunday 23 March at the Acorn Bar on 375 Forest Road, The Basin.

Young artist scores grant to explore wearable art

By Tanya Steele

A little support from the community goes a long way and advice from local artists, social media and a council grant have made it possible for a young artist to attend a major wearable art festival in Queensland.

Young Yarra Ranges origami artist April will be able to head off to experience wearable art later this year after successfully securing a Youth Pathways Grant from Yarra Ranges Council this month.

“I am stoked to have been invited backstage at the upcoming Australian Wearable Art Festival up in Queensland in August!” read April’s post on social media on 19 February.

“And thanks to Yarra Ranges Council, I have just been awarded a Youth Pathways grant to help me get there,” it said.

On the weekend of 9 to 11 August, The Australian Wearable Art Festival will see April and her mother Rachael travel to Queensland for an exciting opportunity to see a range of wearable art up close and behind the scenes.

The festival is in its fifth year and celebrates artists and designers to create and wear unusual and unique materials.

April has been crafting in the origami space for several years and has recently branched into creating wearable pieces.

Support from her community has led to the exciting invitation to Queensland and the young artist said after she made an origami skirt and her mum posted it on socials, a local artist reached out to suggest that she enter it into some competitions.

After discovering the wearable arts festival in Queensland, April said she then found out that she was too young to enter.

“When we emailed the Australian Wearable Art Festival, Wendy (from AWAF) suggested that I seek sponsorship to attend and tour backstage,” she said.

“I’m loving making origami outfits so would love to enter one when I am old enough.”

With the help of her family April then began the process of applying for a grant through Yarra Ranges Council to help cover some of the cost.

No stranger to grant applications, Mum Rachel spotted that there was a ‘Youth Pathways’ category available.

“The grant will cover entry to the festival for us both which is awesome as well have lots of other expenses to get there too,” said Rachel.

Yarra Ranges Director of Communities, Leanne Hurst said that the Youth Pathway grants are designed to help support the development of young people, which in turn helps build strong and inclusive communities.

“The grants help our younger people build

their potential while developing skills that align closely to whatever their passion or career aspirations are,” she said.

April said making a skirt out of origami was a process of experimentation that began in 2023.

“I started experimenting with making origami fabric – I managed to do it but then couldn’t make it work as a skirt,” she said.

“I took a break from that project, then revisited the next year with new ideas – just in time for my homeschool formal.”

“I made it work and wore it to my formal -

along with the rest of the outfit I made.”

April said she began learning origami when she was five and started selling it when she was seven, moving on to online sales and paid workshops by the time she turned 11.

“I started asking Mum for a lemonade-type stall out the front of our house and she suggested origami,” she said.

“Since then, I moved on to selling at markets, in shops and building a website.”

April said she loves building her business and loves creating products that people want to buy.

“I love creating new origami art,” she said.

The young artist is currently working on running workshops in the hills and on her next outfit and said she has about half of it ready.

“I’ll post it on my socials when it is ready,” she said.

“I am so excited to be teaching my first origami fabric/pleating workshop in a few weeks.”

If you are or know of a younger person who would benefit from the Youth Pathway Grants, please visit the Yarra Ranges council website for more information or to apply at https://www. yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Community/Grants/ Apply-for-Monthly-Grants. “

The young artist has already created wearable origami clothing and worn it to her homeschool formal. (Folded by Me)

April is excited to attend the Wearable Arts Festival in part thanks to the Yarra Ranges Youth Pathways Grant.

Sachar Amos (left) handed Robbie Greig the prize. (Supplied)

Special day to celebrate

Next Saturday will be International Women’s Day which celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.

Last Thursday on a beautiful day when it felt good to be alive, a group of over 30 people, predominantly women, gathered in the Rotunda of the Emerald Cemetery to hear reflections on and memories of the lives of two remarkable women: poet Stella Turner and artist Jenny Saulwick.

The event was part of U3A’s Our Women’s Lives Well Lived class initiated and led by Dorothy Scott.

It emphasized the importance of keeping alive the memories of those gone and cherishing the moments we had shared with them.

I spoke about Stella Turner who had been a member of the Woorilla Writers and involved in our publications, performances and literary festivals.

Environmentalist Karen Alexander spoke of Jenny Saulwick’s incredible life of art and design and the recognition she received.

Among personal reflections shared with Jenny’s children and friends who were present Karen drew our attention to the incredible volume of Jenny’s art and design as outlined in the Awards Ceremony of the Lifetime Achievement Yarra Ranges 1916.

Jenny has also been a leader on environmental and arts issues since she first moved to the Dandenong Ranges in 1968.

As well as bringing up a family and running an arts business she has been involved in many organisations and campaigns.

These campaigns have sought to build and maintain local community spirit and awareness.

This has contributed in no small part of making the Dandenong Ranges a unique and highly valued district famous for the arts and environment.

Stella’s son Peter and family of her close friend, nature artistSusieWardle were there to hear me speak about when Stella Turner joined Woorilla Writers.

She was already a published poet, and regu-

NEWS

WOORILLA WORDS

lar contributor to many literary magazines and a long -time member of the Society of Women Writers.

Her other passions were music and nature in all its forms, from tiny birds that filled her garden to rugged outback vistas and native plants.

Her long time friendships and association with Suzie Wardle and naturalist Jean Galbraith translated into beautifully illustrated books of poetry: Season of Gold, Fuscias at Six, Descant of Birds and the 25 Wild Flowers of the Dandenongs.

An accomplished cellist, after her marriage she turned to Chamber Music, teaching and writing lyrics. In 1985 together with Wendy Morrisey they won the Henry Lawson Award for classical songs and she continued collaborating in bringing music to children.

Such was her collaboration with Bob Graham in the delightful Sounds and Music.

Outback Woman by Stella Turner Woman, you belong to the red earth

And stunted mallee gums

Where a hot ball of sun

Rolls across the sky

shrinking reluctant grass to spikes… where water is the enemy

to be fought, outwitted, taken prisoner.

Tap the tank rings

Wash in a cup of water, then

Carry any dregs to your dream

a rose bush near your back door.

It has flowered for you in good years

Yet your eyes have a far-away look.

Do you yearn for more than one rose bush?

The Emerald Cemetery is a peaceful well -tended bush fringed oasis, a short drive from Emerald with graves going back in time to the late eighteen hundreds.

Cemeteries have long been places of contemplation, where the living came to remember the dead and perhaps reflect on how short our lives really are.

How many times on road trips around the country or overseas have you been drawn to an old cemetery?

Often visibly neglected, yet you can’t help but be captivated by the moss-covered tombstones, the weathered crosses, or the crumbling headstones.

Some, like famous war cemeteries, are tourist attractions.

Cemeteries are interesting.

They’re worth visiting and they’re worth studying.

But today people are finding it hard even to visit their living loved ones, so regularly visiting a cemetery may be relegated to only special anniversaries.

To read the gravestones on the hill;

The graveyard draws the living still,

But never anymore the dead.

The verses in it say and say:

“The ones who living come today

To read the stones and go away

Tomorrow dead will come to stay.”

Excerpt from In a Disused Graveyard by Robert Frost.

There is a growing change of sentiment towards how we bury our dead.

For some, burial is dictated by religious and cultural norms but many in a predominantly secular society hold different views.

With urbanization and population on the increase, as well as a scarcity of land, there is growing interest in green burials, moving away from

using materials like wood, metal, stone etc. all of which contribute to deforestation and carbon emissions.

Some cemeteries have been built on land with contested histories, including Indigenous. Green burials, cremation, and digital memorials are gaining popularity as more people reconsider how they want to be remembered while minimizing environmental and financial burdens.

There is also now a generation who may prefer online memorials and virtual tributes instead of traditional grave site visits.

Every grave tells a unique story, hinting at the trials, victories, and tribulations that the deceased experienced during their time on Earth. Each tombstone bears witness to a life lived, filled with joys and sorrows, love and loss.

Could not the same be achieved with alternative means of ‘burial’ that acknowledges the changing society and the need to protect our environment.

We can surely still reflect on mortality, fragility of existence and the legacies left to us.

In the case of both Stella Turner and Jenny Saulwick they were gifted artists who have left us public examples of their work.

We should not forget but make sure we keep them alive but also remember that there are of course many more private treasured legacies left by less prominent women and families will hopefully make sure these legacies are passed on to future generations.

And as I opened my talk with a quote from 18th century woman writer, George Eliot, I will finish this piece with the same quote: Our dead are never dead to us until we have forgotten them.

Similarly the ancient Egyptians believed that only when your name vanished from people’s memories, you were truly dead.

On International Women’s Day remember not just the women who have left public legacies like Stella and Jenny but also all those who have in some way touched your lives.

International Women’s Day in the Yarra Ranges

In Yarra Ranges and around the world - International Women’s Day will be celebrated on Saturday, 8 March. This important day, held on the same date each year, honours the achievements and contributions of women and girls, while also acknowledging the challenges they continue to face.

It’s a day to promote gender equality, celebrate progress, and reflect on the ongoing work needed to ensure a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

‘March Forward’ is the official theme for International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 - commemorating 30 years since the United Nation’s Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action for achieving gender equality.

This meaningful theme reminds us that progress is not just about reflection but taking decisive, planned steps to turn our goals into action today. It is time to highlight all of the issues and move forward, so there really can be an equal future for all women and girls.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Jim Child shared the following message: “I am proud to say at Council that we are committed to promoting gender equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and community,” Cr Child said.

“Our vision is clear: Yarra Ranges is gender equitable, inclusive, and diverse. Women, men, and gender-diverse people have equitable access to resources, power, and opportunities. We are brave and fierce in our pursuit of gender equality and human rights, and we all have a role to play.

We demand this for ourselves and our community.

“Council plays a crucial role in influencing change through our programs, services, and spaces, setting behavioural and cultural standards, and working to change systems and structures in our workplace that contribute to inequality. Our commitment is outlined in our Council Plan, the Gender Equality Action Plan, and our Health and Wellbeing Strategy.

Council, in partnership with Inspiro invites you to enjoy an exclusive screening of the Trailblazers and the launch of the Sport for All Toolkit. This is a Free event, open to people of all genders. Places are limited, registration is required, and light Refreshments provided:

• Date: Thursday 6 March 2025

• Time: 1pm - 3.30pm

• Venue: Box Hill Institute, Aunty Dot Peters Auditorium,

• 1 Jarlo Drive, Lilydale

• For more information and registration see

www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1353511 or call 1300 368 300 today. The event will include the launch of the Sport for All Gender Inclusive Toolkit, a practical selfassessment to help local sporting clubs and active recreation settings, to identify their strengths as well as areas for improvement, in creating safe, accessible and welcoming environments for women and girls, transgender and gender diverse people.

Sport for All Gender Inclusive Toolkit includes the self-assessment audit tool, snapshot survey and action plan template and can be found on-

line as free resource for relevant organisations by visiting https://inspiro.org.au/services/community/health-promotion/sport-for-all/.

Sport is a highly visible and valued feature of Victorian culture and identity, and provides many opportunities to enrich communities through supporting good physical and mental health and promoting respect and fairness for all people.

“Achieving gender equality is not just a women’s issue; it’s a community issue that benefits us all. Let’s break down barriers and build a community where everyone has the opportunity to lead, succeed, and thrive,” Cr Child said.

Yarra Ranges Council will be hosting IWD on Thursday 6 March 2025 at Box Hill Institute. (Unsplash)

You, me and MPs, a toolkit

With news of a Federal Election approaching, now is an ideal time for community members to strengthen their understanding of Australia’s parliamentary system.

The You, Me and MPs Toolkit is a resource developed by Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC) in collaboration with the Parliament of Victoria, and is a valuable resource designed to empower community members to engage with the democratic process.

Co-created with community members, local Members of Parliament and Electorate Officers, the toolkit aims to empower individuals to navigate the parliamentary system and confidently

CARTOON

Legal matters

Anita Koochew Eastern Community Legal Centre

engage with their local MPs, fostering a more inclusive and participatory democracy.

Key features include animated videos ex-

plaining government roles, interviews with community members and parliamentary staff, and practical tools for engaging effectively with government representatives.

Designed in close collaboration with multicultural and multifaith communities to bridge information gaps and encourage active participation, the toolkit is a valuable resource for all Australians to engage more meaningfully in democracy.

To ensure accessibility, the Toolkit is also available in multiple languages, including Burmese, Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), Falam Chin, Farsi, Hakka Chin, Karen,

Vietnamese and Zomi.

The Toolkit can be accessed here: engagingcommunities.eclc.org.au

You Me and MPs fosters inclusion and equality by equipping community members with knowledge and practical tools to address systemic barriers and promote meaningful democratic engagement, reflecting ECLC’s commitment to inclusive and empowered communities.

If you or someone you know requires free legal help, please contact ECLC at 1300 32 52 00, request an appointment at eclc.org.au/help or email at eclc@eclc.org.au

The redemption of The TCU

Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare Starring Martin Portlock, Megan Placito and Peter DeSouza-Feighoney MA15+ 4/5

Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare is the third and best film in the Twisted Childhood Universe franchise, which began with the Winnie-The-Pooh: Blood And Honey movies.

Wendy (Megan Placito) must rescue her brother Michael (Peter DeSouza-Feighoney) from Peter Pan (Martin Portlock), a serial killer who abducts young boys with the promise of sending them to Neverland.

Portlock is chilling as Peter, Placito is an engaging heroine as Wendy, and DeSouzaFeighoney conveys both terror and perseverance as Michael.

its influences on its sleeve, from It and The Black Phone to The Shining and even the Joker.

Australia Reads is a collaborative initiative supported by educators, publishers, booksellers, librarians, authors and illustrators.

Each year, the organisation publishes important research findings from across Australia and overseas to provide insights into the benefits of reading as well as reader behaviours and trends.

New findings on reading PASSION FOR PROSE

The “Understanding Australian readers: Behavioural insights into recreational reading” research report was recently released by Australia Reads and Monash University’s BehaviourWorks Australia. It tackles three questions: “How do we get more people reading? What are the best ways to reach those who rarely read? And what can we practically do to influence reading habits?”

A survey of 1622 Australians aged 16 and above reveals the drivers and barriers to their reading behaviours.

The research focuses on “reading done for pleasure and relaxation, rather than for educational or professional purposes”.

It covers print and digital books as well as audiobooks.

Using a behavioural science approach, reading is defined as “a sequence of six specific behaviours in a reading journey” – from finding, choosing and getting books that one wants to read, to starting and continuing to read, and, finally, to reflecting and sharing.

Based on survey results, four segments of Readers are identified, including “Avid Readers” (22.4 per cent), “Engaged Readers” (30.6 per cent), “Ambivalent Readers” (14.8 per cent) and “Aspirational Readers” (14.7 per cent). There are also two segments of Non-Readers, “Lapsed Readers” (7.1 per cent) and “Uninterested Non-Readers” (10.4 per cent).

The demographics of these six reader segments and their reading habits, intentions, challenges and barriers are presented.

These are analysed using the COM-B model, which suggests behaviour (B) is influenced by three interconnected factors – capability (C), opportunity (O) and motivation (M). Specifically: “For a behaviour to happen, people need to have the skills and knowledge (capability), the right resources and environ-

WITH CHRISTINE SUN

ment (opportunity), and the desire to do that behaviour(motivation).”

Particularly noteworthy is “social norms” as a social component of “opportunity”, which sheds light on the role of peers and communities in encouraging reading.

The research finds almost half of Australians wish they could read more, with 54.9 per cent of Readers and 49.8 per cent of Non-Readers saying they read less than they intend to do.

Overall, feeling comforted (37.6 per cent) is the most common emotion associated with reading, followed by feeling inspired (24.2 per cent), joyful (22.6 per cent), enlightened (22.4 per cent) and curious (22.1 per cent).

However, reading (49.9 per cent) is less popular than other leisure activities such as watching TV/movies (80.9 per cent), social media and Internet browsing (61.2 per cent) and eating/drinking out (55.1 per cent).

This is concerning, with the 2023 National Arts Participation Survey finding almost 30 per cent of Australians have not read or listened to a single book in a year.

Yet, there is no “one size fits all” model to shifting reader behaviours, because each Reader and Non-Reader segment holds distinct attitudes and behaviours around reading.

Nevertheless, by exploring what drives people to read, what stops them, and how they feel about books, we can better understand the sorts of reading barriers and opportunities that Readers and Non-Readers are facing in their daily lives.

This, in turn, will benefit our development and evaluation of strategies that can help more people read books, more often.

The swiftly-paced narrative features a heavy atmosphere of dread and helplessness, with richly disturbing sound design, some stunning cinematography and excellent gore and practical effects in the gnarly kills.

There is some awkward dialogue and abrupt editing here and there, and the film doesn’t do much to establish Peter’s coughing illness, but overall Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare is a lean, nasty and well-crafted slasher movie.

Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare wears

While it’s mostly a surface-level spin on a sinister Peter Pan story (and the inclusion of Hook is a bizarre stretch), Kit Green stands out as a tragic addict take on Tinker Bell.

I once called Blood-And-Honey 1 ‘a Halloween movie if Winnie-The-Pooh were Michael Myers’, and Neverland Nightmare executes the above pitch better, and especially in the nerve-shredding climax, than either Blood-And-Honey movie.

A solid indie horror film and a huge filmmaking improvement for the TCU, Peter Pan’s Neverland Nightmare has a very limited cinema release in Victoria, so catch it before it disappears to Neverland.

Web of intrigue on the stage

The 1812 theatre Spider’s Web by Agatha Christie

The curtains opened to a magnificent set of an English country mansion lounge room.

Complete with 12 paintings, antique desk, double doors which were put to full use, mystery cupboards and something that 1812 specialises in, off stage are still sets that one can see through the doors.

Sir Rowland Delahaye was portrayed by Roger Paul who caught the essence of a Knight of England, a wonderful portrayal.

Hugo Birch and the Doctor was played by Tim Byron.

Another great performance as one of three visitors to the Hailsham-Brown home.

The third of the three was Jeremy Warrender played by Jonathon Simpson.

Jonathon kept up the standard set by the cast giving a good portrayal of the man who was not quite what he seemed.

Nicola Taylor was the main character, Clarissa Hailsham-Brown.

A wonderful character who occasionally mixed the truth with her own interpretation so when she told the truth nobody believed her.

A good portrayal but one felt the outfit did not fit the period.

Her stepdaughter Pippa was given an excellent performance by Sophie Watson who played as a 12 year old girl. A good interpretation of the character.

The lady gardener Mildred Peake was given a great interpretation by Michelle Zintschenko a surprising role and well done by

Michelle.

The butler Elgin, was played by Gaurav Saxena.

Gaurav handled the role as envisaged but one feels his outfit could have been a little better.

The Police Inspector Lord was given a good interpretation by Andrew McAliece, a dominant character who did not quite believe the stories he was told.

The so-called blackmailer, Oliver Costello was played by Mitchell Sholer.

An evil man who frightened Pippa.

A good portrayal.

Henry Hailsham-Brown, the husband of Clarissa and father to Pippa was played by Miller Shettoch.

He was a member of the Diplomatic Corps and had a mysterious meeting that night and missed the goings on.

A nice portrayal Constable Jones was portrayed by Tim L. Chellerhos.

A good portrayal.

The 1812 Theatre gave its opening play for 2025 an interesting and wonderful evening of theatre.

HEIRLOOM POSITION AND ARCHITECTURALLY DESIGNED

HEIRLOOM POSITION, ARCHITECTURALLY DESIGNED AND PERFECTLY PRIVATE

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

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

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

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

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

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

easy reach.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The perfect location, with the perfect viewis this your perfect home...?

5 3 6 1 1 $1,590,000 - $1,749,000

More than an acre (4,231 M2) of Private Creekside Living in the Heart of Healesville

3 Separate Substantial Living Zones

No less than 5 Large Bedrooms with Equally Large Walk in Robes

Dedicated space for your Gymnasium/Office/Studio

Expansive external living / Quality Inground Pool

Creekside Treehouse

4 Bay Garage / Workshop

Very Comfortable 1 Bed Bungalow for Guests/Family Members Full Length Concrete Driveway/Forecourt (Super Low Maintanance)

2 1 3 $650,000 - $690,000 High Set Position Overlooking McGregor Ave to the North Double Brick Construction

Character Fireplace / Passive Solar Design Cues

Spacious Lounge / Dining

Single Garage Under Roofline / Could this become a Master with Ensuite and Walk in Robe (STCA*)

Well Established Native and Exotic Plantings / Formal Vegetable Gardens Established Lot size of 925 Sqr Mtr

2 Bay Garage / Workshop

Full Length Concrete Driveway/Forecourt (Super Low Maintenance)

*Subject to Council Approval

Farnham Road, Healesville

Mc Gregor Road, Healesville

Blannin Street, Healesville

TRANQUIL HILL RETREAT WITH ESTABLISHED GARDENS

NESTLED within minutes from Emerald and Monbulk townships, this charming four-bedroom home offers a rare blend of privacy, space, and natural beauty. Set on approximately 1,580m², the property is framed by lush gardens, mature trees, and a peaceful ambiance that welcomes you from the moment you arrive.

A tree-lined driveway leads to the beautifully maintained residence, where a wrap-around veranda invites you to unwind and take in the tranquil surroundings. Inside, the home is warm and inviting, featuring lightfilled interiors, polished timber floors, and a seamless connection to the outdoors.

The master suite is a private retreat, complete with an ensuite, while the additional three bedrooms are serviced by a full main bathroom, ensuring comfort and convenience for the whole family. The gardens are wellestablished and provide a picturesque setting with towering trees and lush greenery. Raised garden beds offer the perfect space to grow fresh produce, while a dedicated dog run provides a secure area for pets. There are also storage sheds for trailers, tools and equipment, while the expansive yard is ideal for entertaining, gardening, or simply enjoying the serenity of nature. Under-house storage adds an extra layer of practicality, ensuring plenty of space for seasonal items, tools, or workshop needs.

Conveniently located just moments from Emerald village, this home offers easy access to cafes, shops, parks, and walking trails, all while providing a private retreat from the everyday. Offering the perfect balance of tranquility and practicality, this residence is a rare opportunity to embrace the hills lifestyle in a setting of undeniable charm.

For more information or to arrange an inspection, please contact us today.

MAGICAL RETREAT ON OVER ONE ACRE

NESTLED amidst majestic redwoods and gumtrees, this breathtaking 3 bedroom home offers a unique blend of rustic charm, modern style, and tranquil living. Meander up the driveway and arrive at your private sanctuary, where every corner of this remarkable property radiates character and elegance.

Upon entering, you’ll be immediately captivated by the spacious lounge with a wood fire, perfect for cozy evenings. Original timber floorboards flow throughout much of the home, adding warmth and history. The stylish and modern kitchen is a dream for any chef, complete with a gas cooktop, dishwasher, and plenty of room for entertaining. The dining room features stunning large windows that invite the outside in, capturing the beauty of the garden and creating a serene atmosphere.

Three generously sized bedrooms one including built-in robes and a study nook in the third bedroom, offering a flexible

space for work or leisure. The neat, original bathroom boasts a classic clawfoot bath, a timeless feature that adds to the home’s rustic elegance.

Outside, the impressive ¾ verandah overlooks the established gardens, providing the perfect spot for relaxation or entertaining. The property spans over 1 and 1/4 acres (5059 sq.m) of land ideal for a pony and picturesque rustic paths leading through the property. A dam completes the tranquil, private setting. Whether you’re soaking in the serenity or enjoying outdoor adventures, this home is a true haven.

Additional features include a double garage, single carport, and ample space for all your outdoor pursuits.

This is a home that will be admired at every turn don’t miss your chance to experience its timeless beauty and unparalleled charm.

Thisoriginalandwellkepthomeisanopportunityyouwon’twanttomiss.Pricedtosell,thispractical propertyislocatedjustontheoutskirtsofthevibrantWarburtontownship.Offeringconvenienceand arelaxedlifestyle,positioneddirectlyacrossfromthecaravanpark,WaterWorld,andtheserene YarraRiver,everythingyouneedisrightatyourdoorstep –including abusstopforeasytravel.The homefeaturesthreecomfortablebedroomsandonebathroom,makingitanidealchoicefor downsizers,firsthomebuyers,orthoselookingtoinvestinthisthrivingarea.Theopenplanlounge andkitchenprovidea cozyspacetorelaxandentertain,whiletheloungeitselfboastsstunning mountainviewsanda cracklingwoodfire,perfectforthosechillyevenings.Lowmaintenanceyard andlockupgaragemakethisa allroundneatpackage.Bequickthispropertywon’tlastlong!

RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068

SmallAcreageParadisein aFantasticLocation

Positionedtopleasethisbeautifulsmallacreagehobbyfarmistheidealplacetostarttherelaxed countrylifestyle,situatedonapprox.4.5acresofrollingpastures,thereisloadsofspaceforthe growingfamilytospreadoutandenjoy.Currentlysetuptosuitthehorseenthusiastwithmultiple paddocksandsheltersplus 3stablesandholdingyardsplusa largebarnwithmezzaninefloor.The countrystylehomeiswarm,homelyandinvitingoffering 2goodsizedbedroomsplusa family/ loungeareawithgasheatingandmultiplesplitsystemsthroughoutthehome.Thekitcheniswell appointedandhasplentyofbenchandcupboardspaceincludinga separatemeals/diningarea.A sensationalpropertyinanexceptionallocationbackingontotheWarburtontrailandjusta shortwalk tolocalschools,shopsandtransportit’sa greatplaceforthefamilytocallhome.

50RiverturnLane,Warburton$2,200,000-$2,420,000

RiverturnLane,Warburton Aspectacularpropertysteepedinlocalhistory,a trueclassicWarburtonpropertyandsetona picturesque10acresdatingbacktoaroundtheearly1900’s.Boasting 6to7 bedroomsplusan office/studyarea,2 bathroomsandmultipleliving/familyroomsideallyzonedtoalloweveryonetheir ownspaceandprivacy.Thekitchenareaissuretoimpresswithqualityappliancesandfixtureswith amplebenchandcupboardspaceplus awalkinpantryandbeautifulsplashbacks.Theoutside areaisequallyimpressivewithapprox.10acrestoexplore.Entertaininstyleallyearroundwitha coveredentertainingareaplusopenairentertainingwith ahugedeckoffthemainfamilyroomwith stunningviewsoverlookingtheYarraRiver.Animpressiveview,animpressiveproperty,fresh,modern anduptodatethroughoutbutretainingallthewarmthandatmosphereoftheearlydays.

Solid4-BedroomHomeonOver6700sqmofTranquilLand Nestledattheendofa quiet,no-throughroad,thissolidbrick4-bedroomretreatisa peaceful sanctuary.Setonover6000sqmoflushland,thisspaciouspropertyofferstheperfectblendofprivacy andnaturalbeauty.Inside,you’llfind acosy,open-planlivingspacecomplementedbyanoriginal kitchenand awoodfire.Fourgenerous-sizedbedroomsprovideplentyofroomforfamilyorguests, andtheupdatedandfunctionalbathroomaddstothehome’seaseofliving.Outside,theexpansive verandaoffers afantasticspacetounwindandtakeinthestunningviewsofyourland.Thereare numerousshedstoexplore,including adedicatedchookshed,addingpracticalitytotheproperty. Locatedjusta shortdrivefromthevibranttownofWarburtonandsurroundedbya wealthofoutdoor adventures.Bequicktosecure apeaceful,spaciousretreat. 17NelloDrive,Reefton$550,000-$600,000

YOUR PERFECT TREE CHANGE ADVENTURE AWAITS

PERFECT for all growing families, and anyone wanting to be close to the picturesque trails of Sherbrooke Forest, this perfectly presented, split level home has had a modern transformation that will no doubt impress!

Well designed both inside and out, the home has an open floorplan and boasts a spacious living / dining area that overlooks a tiered, useable and fully fenced front yard where children and your animals can play safely.

The oversized kitchen is a dream for anyone who loves to cook and create and is positioned perfectly with servery to the verandah and outdoor entertaining area, perfect for times when you are having great nights in with family and friends!

Three bedrooms and two bathrooms will

satisfy anyone needing extra space and there is no need to worry about keeping warm and cosy as your heating and cooling is well taken care of with a wood fire, gas ducted heating and an efficient split system.

Outside, although you are surrounded by the best that the Dandenong Ranges National Park has to offer, you are only a short walk and an easy car ride to Belgrave main street, public transport and schools, making this property a dream come true for those who are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Sitting on a 974m2 block, this property also contains a fantastic double garage / workshop at the rear and extra parking for a caravan, trailer or other vehicles.

SharynChandler

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words.

Championships wrap up

By Ron Hottes

The 2025 Warburton Golf Club Championships are now complete.

Open Championship:

After winning his first title last year, Michael Batten played two solid opening rounds to take a large lead into the decider. Although it proved to be his worst round, Michael still prevailed to win overall by 4 shots. The chasing pack saw 11time champion Paul Mason and previous Open winner Clinton Toohey tie for 2nd, with both recording solid 3-round scores to just fall short. The Nett Open champ is Seth Spenceley, the most improved player in the Club over the last 12 months and only 19. He won that title easily.

B-Grade:

Chris Leighton finished a comfortable winner here and was never threatened at any time. Unfortunately for Chris, he would have won the Nett as well, in this division but you can’t win both the Open and the Nett. Therefore Simon Spenceley was the fortunate recipient of that ruling, and is the B-Grade Nett winner, just one shot in front of Angus Hall and Lee Creedy.

C-Grade:

Scott Atkinson won by the prodigious margin of 18 strokes. Jodie Burge and Andy McMath formed the chasing pack and although Scott would have easily won the Nett title too, at least that honour went to his mate, Jodie Burge, who just ousted Tex Van Der Kooi.

Ladies Titles:

Meredith Nursey, our popular President, won her ‘umpteenth’ Ladies’ Open title, shooting a fine Nett 67 in her last round to put the result beyond doubt. The B-Grade winner is the hardworking Georgie Houniet, and Deborah grabbed the Nett title here. Both were popular wins for two popular members. In C-Grade, more popular members came out on top. Hard-working committeeperson, Merilyn Macdonald easily won the Gross honour, but Trish Eldridge took

home the prize for the Nett honour.

Junior Title:

The junior champion is Manny Humphris, Manny played so well in the first two rounds, he scared off the opposition and only had to beat the course on the last day and of course, he did.

Seniors Title:

Finally, in the Seniors Grade, that old stager Noel Cross, blew away the rest with two fine rounds, including a sub-80 on the last day. Crossy is the Open champ, but Simon Spenceley took home the Nett Senior title this year.

Regular results:

The V.V.V’s:

Another smallish field contested for the vouchers on this day, and Sally-Anne Clark, after a great start, amassed 19 points to win. Suzanne Barratt was the runner-up (on a countback from Michelle Jordon), both girls with 18 solid points. Sally-Anne achieved an NTP on the 3rd hole and followed it up by draining a long putt for a birdie and 2 for 5 points.

Wednesday 26 February, Alternate Shot Pairs: This is really just Foursomes, loyal readers, which

is a demanding event because if you play a shot that puts you in trouble, it’s your partner who has to extricate himself from it. Not much extricating occurred between the pair of Mario DeVincentis and Kevin Conway. In the end, their Nett 67 really had the rest of the field covered. Deborah and Seth Spenceley grabbed the runner-up prize with a respectable Nett 70. The ball rundown reached Nett 72 only. The 3 NTPs went to Mr Conway (3rd), David Hatt (9th) and Neil ‘Mr Scotland’ Leckenby (12th).

Twilight:

With pleasant weather conditions for golf being in evidence, there were plenty of good scores in evidence as well. The best of those scores was achieved by Troy Veenker, who posted a fine 23 points. This proved impossible to beat, although Georgie Houniet’s 21 points was also a result to be proud of. The balls reached down to 19 only. The three NTPs on offer went home with John Wilson, awelcomevisitorfromYeringMeadowsG.C,(3rd), ‘Bomber’ Campbell (5th) and Benny Lever (9th).

Saturday 1 March, Stroke and Monthly Medal:

The March Medal has been claimed by Darryl Ward, who recorded a fine Nett 63. This polished performance also provided Dazza with the B-Grade voucher. The runner-up was Captain Whitehead with his best result in a while, a Nett 68. In A-Grade, Michael Pinkster won with a Nett 67. Well done, La Pinkster. The multi-talented Tim McKail was the runner-up with a Nett 68. Mick Eldridge took home the C-Grade prize with a fine Nett 68. The runner-up in this grade was Rob Ferguson returning a solid Nett 70. In A-Grade the balls extended down to 74; also in C-Grade-but in B-Grade, it was only down to Nett 72. In the Ladies’ results, President Meredith returned a superb Nett 68. Georgie Houniet posted a good Nett 72, to take home the B-Grade voucher; and Merilyn Macdonald posted a Nett 80 to be the C-Grade winner. Finally, the NTP winners were Peter Fox (3rd), Lee Creedy (5th), Jodie Burge (9th), Michael Batten (12th) and Meredith Nursey for a fine tee-shot on the tough 15th.

Open Champion Michael Batten and his family. (Supplied)

C-Grade Champion Scott Atkinson.

L-R: C-Grade Ladies Champion Merilyn McDonald with runner-up Trish Eldridge.

Almost at an end

By Ian Milgate

Healesville’s 1st. side were playing Yarra Glen at Yarra Glen in the Semi Final.

The team thought they would be in with a chance, but from the start, Yarra Glen got the jump on Healesville.

By the half time break, Healesville were down by 18 shots 23/41.

After the break, the team tried to gain some ground but Yarra Glen were too strong for them, and in the end, Healesville went down by 35 shots 81/46.

A great effort by Healesville throughout the year and congratulations to Yarra Glen who now go into the preliminary final, so good luck to them.

Hilda Gurney, Mick Featherstone, Steve Bulled, Rob Ayres 18/23

Gerda Otto, John Fitzpatrick, Col Jarvis, Effie Laban 11/27

Ian Milgate, Bob Brown, Rita Featherstone, Robyn Turville 17/31

Healesville’s 2nd. side played Yarra Junction at Yarra Junction.

This was going to be a big ask as Yarra Junctions green is one of the fastest greens in the competition, and the Yarra Junction bowlers were very good on their green.

As expected, Yarra Junction came out and used the very fast green to their advantage, and at the break, Healesville were 24 shots down 21/45.

After the break, a few of Healesville bowlers

started to get a feel for the green, and Len Cosson’s rink were putting down some good bowls with Anne Knibbs, Mike Adams and Len Cosson showing the way.

Judy Veermann’s rink were also hanging in there not allowing Yarra Junction to jump ahead.

In the end though, on a tough green it was too much for us going down by 24 shots 53/77.

A great effort on a very quick green and congratulations to Yarra Junction who now head into a preliminary final.

John Allen, Mike Adams, Anne Knibbs, Len Cosson 26/20

Jill Cookney, Jodie Ward, Mark Cookney, Judy Veermann 16/22

Barry Parker, Bernard Godde, Glenda Gra-

Finals fever hits Yarra Glen

By Rodney Bates

Pennant Flags are a rare commodity in Lawn Bowls, and the club has had an exceptional year, with four out of five sides making finals, and three sides in the running for section pennant flags this week.

After finishing fourth after the home and away season, and winning the elimination and preliminary final, Yarra Glen’s Division 1 Side played section favourite Lalor in the weekend pennant section final at Heathmont.

A steady start over the first 30 ends saw scores very close with less than five shots separating the teams after 30 ends.

Lalor then started to pull in front gradually over the next 30 ends, and despite some spirited fightback and great support from Yarra Glen’s spectators, Lalor proved too strong to win the section flag.

Final score 62-83. C. Carswell 23/18; S. Manifold 10/19; Beau Simmons 15/19; B. Simmons 14/27.

On Sunday, Lalor were successful in winning a divisional semi-final, and promotion to Premier Reserve Division next season.

Side 2, having been on top for most of the year, played their Division 4 section final against Ringwood, also at Heathmont.

Having two sides at Heathmont was a great experience for the entire club, with the many supporters able to watch both teams play.

Yarra Glen jumped out of the gates at a hectic pace, and by the time the break came, had a lead of over 30 shots.

The second half saw a spirited fightback by Ringwood, with one Yarra Glen rink pegged back from an 18 shot lead to be behind with a few ends to play, and scores within 10 shots on the overall board.

The Shane Smith led rink held a commanding lead all day, and they formed the foundation of the win, continuing to gain shots, and a late rally across the board saw a pennant flag coming back on the bus to Yarra Glen, winning 98-74. S. Smith 36/10; A. Thurkle 17/19; R. Thurkle 19/21; M. Ramage 26/24.

Yarra Glen will contest the Division 4 quarter final on Sunday 9 March, delayed due to the impact of previous weeks Total Fire Bans impacting other teams completing their section finals.

ham, Russell Smith 11/35

Saturday’s Side 1 played Donvale in the semi final on home turf.

Healesville had each won a game against each other during the year so we knew it was going to be close.

The game went as expected with either team getting a clear brake and by the half time break, the scores were tied up 36/36.

After the break, it was a different story, Donvale seem to keep their head and start to stretch the margin while Healesville were trying to play catch up.

In the end Donvale were too strong for Healesville winning by 16 shots 71/87.

Healesville wish Donvale all the best for the rest of the finals, and to our guys and gals, bad luck but Healesville can go one better next season.

Gerda Otto, Mick Featherstone, Robyn Turville, Adrian Beales 19/22

Barry Parker, Bob Brown, John Fitzpatrick, Effie Laban 20/18

John Howard, Steve Graham, Rita Featherstone, Steve Bulled 17/24

Ian Milgate, Col Jarvis, Robert Ayres, Mark Ward 15/23

Healesville’s 2nd. side play Doncaster on Sunday in the preliminary final and if they beat Doncaster, they will go straight into the grand final which is a huge effort considering they have played with depleted sides every week throughout the year, so go Healesville.

Warburton ready to go

By Garry Lewis

The Midweek Warburton 1 side showed great resilience to fight back from an earlier loss last week, to earn their spot in the Sectional Grand Final this week.

Last Tuesday, Warburton’s Midweek team travelled to table topping Heathmont 2 for a semi-final.

The winner would go straight into the Grand Final this week.

In a close and topsy turvy game, Heathmont came out on top by 8 shots, 54 to 46. Rink scores were as follows: R. McKail 14/ 15, C. Boland 20/ 24 and G. Walsh 12/ 15.

As a result, the Burras played the in form Yarra Glen 1 at home on Thursday in the Preliminary Final, for the right to play in this week’s Sectional Grand Final against Heathmont 2.

After a shaky start, two rinks powered away while the third, despite losing, had limited damage.

The Burras came away with a well-deserved victory, 59 shots to 40, to earn their spot in this week’s Sectional Grand Final.

Rink scores were as follows: G. Walsh 23/ 8, R. McKail 25/ 11 and C. Boland 11/ 21.

The final round of the Wednesday Night Barefoot Bowls Jack Attack Competition was held last week with all teams enjoying perfect conditions for bowling.

Ben Reed from the ‘Bowls to the Wall’ Team won the prize for the first bowler to touch the jack.

Midweek Pennant Finals.

Having secured a home final last week, Yarra Glen hosted Healesville for the second week in a row, this time in the elimination final.

Yarra Glen’s home surface can take some time to get used to, and the team were able to take advantage early on.

With a strong lead at the break, all teams continued to win ends, and eventually ran out winners 81-46.

P.Leonard 23/18; P. Tirant 27/11; A. Skillern 31/17.

Yarra Glen then had to back up on Thursday with a preliminary final at Warburton.

Warburton have had the wood over us this year, and so it proved once again.

The game was very close at the break with only three shots separating the sides, but a second half blitz on a couple of rinks were too much.

Despite a solid win by Ash Skillern’s rink, Yarra Glen went down overall 40-59.

P. Leonard 11/25; A. Skillern 21/11; P. Tirant 8/23. Warburton go on to play Heathmont in the section final next Tuesday.

What a week for Yarra Junction bowlers

By Elly Byrne

With the battle for a finals spot continuing, the first challenge for the Eagles was to get a home win against Healesville, a must-win game. Coming out strong in the first half set the pace for the game and a comfortable lead at halftime of 24 shots was encouraging. Healesville lifted after the break with some great bowling to take a rink win but with the overall score at 77:53 and a few ends to play a win for Healesville was unattainable. The Eagles qualify for prelim finals. One step closer to the real finals spot. The next challenge will be against Croydon at Croydon with the winner being a grand finalist. One more game to go.

The weekend team finally got to play their delayed semifinal game on home ground against Mooroolbark. Having been first on the ladder for most of the season hopes were high that the Eagles’ running streak continued. The Eagles were slower than usual off the starting block at home and had to fight hard to stay in contention with a Mooroolbark.

Having beaten Mooroolbark twice during the season this game was a tougher opposition. All rinks battled well but Mooroolbark gained control by the last two ends for the win by 10 points. A

disappointing result after a hot day’s work. Again due to the delays previously this meant Junction now had to play their preliminary final on the next day Sunday. With the weather a bit cooler and more determined after Saturday’s loss, it was game on against Heathmont. The Eagles came out firing from the start and carried the momentum right throughout the game. There was

some great bowling all-round by both teams and lots of tense ends, but the Eagles prevailed and soared into the grand final and secured promotion for next year with an 84:65 win. Roll on next Saturday for another bout against Mooroolbark at a venue yet to be advised.

The Happy Club hopes to be dancing next week.

This week the sudden death Finals will be held over 6 ends each game, resulting in an overall winner in both the Major (Top 8) and Minor (Bottom 8) sections. The first round of the finals are as follows:

• Major Section - Bowls to the Wall v Thomos; Pensioners v Gunners; 3Ds v Can’t Remember; Three Stooges v 1 Wright and 2 Wrongs.

• Minor Section - Wessie Wonders v Bowl o’ Chicks; Burra Boys v Giddy Gout; La La’s v Giffords Gang All Stars; Chicks with Bowls v ABC Bowls.

The Men’s and Ladies’ Singles Club Championships were decided last Friday with a good crowd in attendance. Both games were of a very high standard.

Congratulations to Aimee Dostie who came from behind to defeat Jade Muratore in the Ladies’ Final and to Chris Lord who held on to defeat Terry Heyward in the Men’s Final.

Members are reminded that the Club Presentation Evening will be held on Friday 14 March 7pm at the Clubrooms.

Bookings are essential for catering purposes.

Social Bowls continues to be played on Mondays from 12 midday with everyone including new and beginning players encouraged to attend.

L - R: Aimee Dostie & Chris Lord took away the Club Singles Championship (Garry Lewis)

Victorious Yarra Junction bowlers are on their way to a Grand Final. (Supplied)

Steve Graham and Adrian Beales deep in thought before the semi final. (Supplied)

Finals time for top teams

By Josh Handasyde, Michael Davern, Matt Wilkinson and Chris Handasyde

U12-7 Healesville 5/107 defeated Yarra Glen 6/104 (Semi Final)

Healesville Under 12(7)s have booked themselves a place in the grand final, thanks to a thrilling semi final win over Yarra Glen.

Yarra won the toss and batted but excellent bowling and fielding by Healesville had them struggling at 6/42.

Wickets went to Rory Jackson-Ward, Fletcher Brook, Arlo Turner and Angus Holmes with run outs to Angus and Otis Rowland.

Yarra Glen showed great resilience and their late order batters rallied to post a competitive score of 6/104 off 23 overs.

The run chase started slow for Healesville who slumped early to 2/7.

Some power hitting from Will Ferguson (15), and Angus Holmes (17 n.o.) put the innings back on track.

From there, excellent running between the wickets from Arlo Turner (13 n.o.), Alby Gotch (7), and Otis Rowland (7) brought Healesville close, before Felix McMahon and Angus Holmes got the last few runs with one over to spare. Healesville will play Wandin in the grand final this Friday night.

U14-3 Healesville 272 v Wantirna South - day 1 of 2 day game (Semi Final)

First week of the two-day semi final, the second seeded Healesville team took on the third seeded Wantirna South, playing in a couple tight contests throughout the season Healesville were narrow winners so it looked to be a tight game.

Winning the toss and batting Healesville got off to a strong start by Raff Morcombe and Henry Harding before Raff was caught for 11.

Summer and Henry would keep building before summer was caught behind.

Henry and Aeden would then consolidate before Henry was out for a well made 32.

A theme for the day Aeden and Harry would build a partnership with Aeden retiring on 42*.

Ryder Hudson and Harry Duff would join in the middle with the score 4/135 off 28.

A strong position but a collapse still on the cards.

Ryder and Duff would then have a stunning partnership which saw Ryder make 37 off 40 and Harrison make 61 off 44 bringing up his half century in only 29 balls.

A partnership of over 110.

Healesville would finish the day on 272 with a 20 run cameo from Louis Keath helping.

Wantirna South return next week to try and chase down 272 in a bid for a spot in the grand final.

U14-7 Healesville 4/145 defeated Ainslie Park 7/113

Taylor Caldicott 34* and 1/10, Tully Ellis 39*, Samuel Hyndman 24*, Manny Winrow 14 & 1/11, Angus Morcombe 12 1/14, Joseph Clark 1/10, Ben Hunter 1/5, Kael Senti 1/4

U16-4 Healesville 2/104 v Hoddles Creek 3/89 - day 1 of 2 day split innings (Semi Final)

Tylor Braden 44* and 1/21, Sam Drummond 34* 1st XI Healesville 9/145 defeated by Lilydale 7/148

Against Lilydale with all to play for with a second chance on the line the bloods got sent into bat and lost an early wicket of Nick Zinghini.

Josh Handasyde and Max Minney batted well for 30s but couldn’t go on with it and Healesvilles middle order struggled to score against a tight bowling unit of Lilydale.

Healesville scrambled 145 and with three early wickets looked to be on.

But unfortunately it was not the bloods day with a poor loss coming by two wickets.

Which finds themselves in the ugly third position with no second chance and having to win three on the trot for premiership glory.

Are Healesville up to this challenge.

We will soon find out but the runs will have to start flowing again.

2nd XI Healesville 7/197 defeated Wantirna South 6/195

With the last round of the home and away season upon us it became a do or die situation for the 2XI to play finals.

Healesville took on wantirna south who even though it sat on the bottom of the ladder, had score well the last few games so they weren’t to be taken lightly.

Losing the toss, Healesville were sent to bowl first.

The innings couldn’t have started any better with Jack Drummond (3/40) taking a wicket on the third ball of the game.

Shortly after the tide turned back to Wantirna South’s direction, the score getting to 1/49 after eight overs.

Changing bowlers get Healesville another wicket from Denzel Parsons (1/31) with a very sharp catch from Jesse Thomas in gully.

With Wantirna still on the attack, they were sitting at 2/98 at drinks shaping up to put on a big total to chase down Healesville changed to a spin attack to slow them down with young Raff Morcombe (2/32) doing a brilliant job bringing the run rate back and also taking his first wicket in the 2XI for the club.

Wantirna South finished out their innings 6/195, a good target for Healesville to chase.

Healesville’s opening pair in Denzel Parsons (60) and Mark Powell (31) got Healesville off to a good start with the partnership being broken when Mark walked passed one in the 14th over setting us a start at 1/60. Ben Wallace (25) joined Denzel at the crease next doing well what he does, turning the strike and keeping the score board ticking over when he also walked past one too.

With the score at 5/139 with eight overs to go, still needing just under a run a ball, Michael Davern (20) and Ethan Nikcevich (31*) were at

Yarra Glen give 100 per cent in finals

By Travis Gloury

Seniors - 1st XI

Croydon Rangers 3rd XI vs Yarra Glen

One day game – 40 overs per side

• Croydon 5/214 cc

• Yarra Glen 4/216

Electing to bowl first in the last home and away game for the season with the result determining relegation in this injury riddled and challenging year for Yarra Glen 1st XI, Jordan Bain partnered Liam Senti with the new ball with out early luck on the quick outfield.

First change bowler Phil Cowan got the first breakthrough in the 13th over from a catch at first slip by Travis Gloury with the score at 1/68.

Yarra Glen’s next breakthrough wouldn`t come until the 29th over from an outfield catch by Phil Cowan at deep square leg off the bowling of Tim Lilley with the score at 2/131 after some tight bowling from Tony Biddiscombe and some run restrictive left arm orthodox spin from Matt Donnelly who would finish with eight overs conceding only 32 runs.

Wickets were hard to come by as Yarra Glen concentrated on restricting the flow of runs with Tim Lilley and Jordan Bain picking up a couple of late wickets each with Croydon Rangers finishing 5/214 after their 40 overs.

Phil Cowan’s eight overs conceding only 30 runs and getting our first breakthrough was also a highlight.

Liam Senti joined Ash Waters at the top of the order in the 5.5 runs per over run chase.

Liam was caught behind in the second over and Phil Cowan followed the next over to be 2/16.

Ash Waters and Tony Biddiscombe were able to make use of the fast outfield to take the score to 2/39 after six overs before Ash was caught at mid off after getting a leading edge for 23 off 23 balls including four boundaries.

Travis Gloury soon followed caught behind in the eighth over with the score 4/42 and seemingly on the ropes.

Tim Williamson joined Tony in the middle and the pair set about batting in a smart fashion

with both players striking the ball cleanly making full use of the nice batting conditions and some smart running between the wickets.

Over the next 12 overs the pair shifted the momentum of the game back Yarra Glen’s way and at the half way 20 over drinks break had lifted the run rate to seven runs per over to put the team in the exceptional position of 4/139 in a must win game for Yarra Glen’s 1st XI, leaving 76 runs required in the remaining 20 overs to bat requiring 3.5 runs per over.

With Sam Gloury, Tim Lilley, Brad Willmore, Matt Donnelly and Jordan Bain still yet to bat the pair continued to punish any loose delivery and score at an astonishing rate and remarkably chase down the required 76 runs in the next 36 balls to claim victory by the end of the 26th over with 14 overs to spare in a remarkable display of batting with Tony finishing with 81 n.o off 60 balls with 11 boundaries and a six and Tim Williamson finishing with 90 n.o in his fourth game of the season off 68 balls including 14 boundaries in a new 5th wicket Club Record partnership of 174, eclipsing the previous club record standing for nine years of 129 by John Orren and Grant Braden in 2015/16 against Yarra Junction. 2nd XI

Yarra Glen vs Wonga Park 6th XI

One day game – 36 overs each team

• Wonga Park 8/177

• Sam Holland 2/13

• Lachlan Cowan 2/24

• Brodie McCann 2/33

• Yarra Glen 117

• Sean Beath 36

• Blake Davey 15 3rd XI

• Yarra Glen 9/155

• Lucas Burke 43

• Richard Gurney 22

• Sean Hill 13

• Wandin 3rd XI

• 3/171

One wicket each to Dylan Shambrook, Spencer Boers and Nathan Deringowski. Under 16

This week under 16 boys took on top team South Croydon in a cutthroat semi-final.

After losing the toss being sent into bat in dewy conditions Yarra Glen lost Sam Holland and Dylan Shambrook in consecutive balls to have us in early trouble at 2/8 after five overs.

Spencer Boers and Sam Gloury began a recovery mission with a partnership of 31 before Spence was bowled for eight.

Sam Gloury (14n.o) retired soon after, after facing his allotted 50 balls bringing Charlie Watts to the crease, courageously batting despite dislocating his shoulder the week before playing basketball.

Kade Smith and Charlie (13) were both dismissed however leaving Sam Donnelly (8n.o) and Tristan Riddiford (1n.o) to guide us through to the close.

Yarra Glen finished our first 25 overs at 5/68 and the boys would need to bowl and field well to keep us in the contest.

As they always do our boys responded with great fight and character.

Dylan Shambrook made an early breakthrough removing their opener in the second over to a great catch from Charlie Watts behind the stumps with the score on 2.

Spencer Boers (1/2) was next to strike having their no. 3 batter caught behind with the score on 20.

Sam Donnelly (1/9) found the edge of their number 4 soon after and suddenly South Croydon were 3/23.

Sam O’Callaghan (1/8) took the next wicket,

the crease together, trying to get the run rate back down Michael was cruising along when he got himself caught out but Ethan took control and put the game on his own shoulders with some clutch batting, hitting the ball where ever he liked. Even with a couple more wickets falling around him and Ethan was calm and got Healesville over the line on the second last ball of the game.

Thinking Healesville had only had to win to stay in finals but it came down to percentage in the end with us holding on to fourth place by 0.01 per cent.

Healesville now take on Yarra junction next week is the semi final.

3rd XI Healesville 135 defeated by Warrandyte 2/139

The threes finished there year with a tough day out. Healesville lost the toss and were sent into bat by a Warrandyte team playing for a finals birth.

After a shakey start Healesville steadied with great knocks from M.Harding (37), P.Singh (31) and A.Singh (33) to finish all out for 135.

Healesville’s bowlers had a tough task to contain a small total.

Healesville had plenty of chances that just missed the fieldsman.

Wyatt Coleman bowled great with one for 15 off three with plenty of edges in that spell. Warrendyte chasing down the total comfortably finishing 2-139.

4th XI Healesville 4/218 defeated by North Ringwood 6/216

Moss Fawdry 52* and 1/23, Campbell Frazetto 47, Cooper Bell 37 5th XI Healesville 1/94 defeated Vermont 94 (Semi Final)

Danny Hyndman 47* and 2/13, Simon Caldicott 37*, Nate Caldicott 2/23, Lee Caldicott 2/6, Tully Ellis 1/10, Mika Kerst 1/11, Sam Hyndman 1/13, Summer Caldicott 1/16

hitting the stumps of their number 5 batter, and when Sam Gloury (1/8) struck after a magnificent running one handed outfield catch by vice captain Sam Holland we were right on top with the score at 5/30.

South Croydon steadied moving to 60 before late wickets to Kade Smith (1/9) and Dylan Shambrook (2/7) left South Croydon at 7/68 at the end of their first 25 overs.

A great fightback by Yarra Glen boys and one that means the game is evenly poised at the end of day one.

Whilst there remains a lot of work to do in the second half of this game, the character, fighting spirit and camaraderie of our boys again shine through today in this performance in what was a great game of junior cricket.

Under 14

Qualifying final

• Xavier Thwaites 2/1 off 2 overs

• One wicket each to Tait Harper and Hayden Monds

• Yarra Glen/Kilsyth 97

• Ronak Mehra 20

• Lawson Appleton 22

Under 12

• Yarra Glen 6/104

• Healesville 5/107

Second vs third on the finalised ladder for regular home and away matches saw both sides evenly matched leading into the knock out semi-final round.

Yarra Glen captain Flynn Bain winning the toss and electing to bat.

Openers of Flynn Bain (4) and Harvey Williamson (20n.o) got off to a nervous start, Flynn run out in the second over with a direct hit to the stumps from mid-on, Yarra Glen 1/6. Xander Nielsen (4) showed intent but got knocked over in the fouth over, Yarra Glen 2/14. Heath Burke (6) came together with Nixon Murphy (0) with Nixon facing 4 really good deliveries before getting knocked over, Yarra Glen 3/30.

Oliver Lilley (1) looked to capitalise on his recent form but was run out, Yarra Glen 4/33.

Yarra Glen Cricket Club’s match report. (File)

Lusatia Park 2nd XI steel up for finals

Last game of the season for Lusatia Park Cricket Club’s 1st XI after not qualifying for finals but looking to finish off the season with a muchneeded win.

Playing fourth-placed Templeton on their home ground, the home side batted first and with some tight bowling, Lusatia Park had them 2/24 after 10 overs and restricted them to 2/46 after 20. After the drinks break with the bowlers still doing a great job and also some fantastic efforts in the field, including two runouts, Templeton’s next three wickets went for the addition of 57 runs to be 5/81 after 28. With 12 overs to go and their opener D.Singh still at the crease, their 6th wicket put on a partnership of 68 due to some lusty hitting from N.Veljovic who scored 41 from only 25 balls when he went with the score on 149. Templeton finished their 40 overs with the score at 6/178 with Singh carrying his bat to finish at 70 n.o. After the tea break, the captain opened the innings with brothers Lochie and Corey Winter-Annette and what a first-time combination it proved to be, putting on a magnificent first-wicket partnership of 122 when Corey fell in the 19th over for a brilliant 63 off 53 balls. Lochie went soon after with the score on 131 but also made a fantastic 60. Lusatia Park lost another two wickets to be 4/159 but reached the winning target of 179 in the 34th over without the loss of another wicket in a great effort.

Brothers Lochie and Corey Winter-Annette formed a formidable partnership for Lusatia Park. (Supplied)

The 2nd XI who were already assured of a home final were looking to finish off the home and away season with a win against 6th place

Lilydale at Woori Yallock. But the visitors had other ideas and were also looking to finish off their season with a win. Lusatia Park had them 1/26 after 6 and then 2/96 at the drinks break. After the break, the visitors added another 39 runs with two more wickets lost. With a 5th wicket adding 71 runs they finished their 40 overs at 5/206, their best batters D.Barker 56 n.o.and M.Browell 44. With 207 to chase for the win, the game was evenly balanced with Lusatia Park’s score at 3/101 after 20 overs. But apart from a fine 54 to Tyson Gaskett from only 33 balls, Lusatia Park lost wickets steadily and ended the game all out for 201. The 3rd XI played Norwood at home with the visitors batting first. They lost their 1st wicket at 34 but then put on a second wicket partnership of 87 to be 2/121 after 21 overs with A.Dykes retired n.o. on 51. Thanks to a third wicket partnership of 42 and 4th wicket partnership of 37 with P.Solanki also retiring on 50 n.o.. The visitors finished their innings at 7/221 with D.Glanville also making 35 n.o. The best of Lusatia Park’s bowlers were Dan Madsen 3/18 and Tayte Hubbard 2/24. Lusatia Park didn’t start the chase well and were in trouble at 5/100 after 21 overs with the only batter to offer any resistance Flynn Pritchard making a great 50 retired and then returning to the crease after another three wickets fell, with the score on 140. This was the last wicket to fall and Lusatia Park was all out for 140 after 31 overs.

Leesa Clausing on Willtony Garnett from Amaroo Equestrian YV Inc won the Advanced Jackpot. (Supplied)

Horse Talk

By Anita Prowse

A very packed Wesburn Park on Sunday for Upper Yarra Adult Riders Club’s annual Dressage Jackpot event, Dressage In The Valley, had huge entries this year, running in March for the first time.

Advanced Jackpot winners - Leesa Clausing on Willtony Garnett from Amaroo Equestrian YV Inc

Level 1 - Kathryn Bavaro on Bloomfield Vivantte from Bunyip Equestrian Club Inc

Level 2 - Tanya Muscillo on Aura from Victorian Dressage Stables ARC Inc

Level 3 - Dianne Wilkinson on Riverbend Icehouse from Upper Yarra ARC

Level 4 - Shekiah Inglis on William Park Excellence from Kinglake Riders Club Inc

Level 5 - Janine De Wit on Sepmor Paparazzi from Upper Yarra ARC Walk Trot - Peta Repinac on Toydini from Amaroo Equestrian YV Inc

Grand final berth secured by Wandin’s women

By David Marshall

With finals upon us, the stakes have never been higher. Wandin’s Women’s 1st XI fought for a place in the Grand Final, while the 1st XI wrapped up their season in style ahead of their own finals campaign. Here’s how the action played out:

Women’s 1st XI: Gritty Team Effort Secures Grand Final Spot Finals time for the women’s side, and the intensity was at its peak as Wandin hosted Blackburn in a high-stakes knockout semi-final. Winning the toss, Wandin sent Blackburn into bat, determined to apply early pressure. Blackburn started steadily until Olivia Edwards made the first breakthrough with the score on 15. However, Blackburn’s strong batting lineup built momentum, reaching 58 before Lisa Vanderzee (1/16) claimed a crucial wicket to halt their progress. Another partnership followed, but Wandin’s disciplined bowling restricted their run rate. A sharp run-out further slowed their momentum, and as Blackburn looked to accelerate, Olivia Edwards delivered a game-changing final over, taking three wickets to finish with outstanding figures of 4/19.

Set a target of 137, the chase was a rollercoaster. The run rate was never an issue, but regular wickets kept the game on a knife’s edge. Bee Cuddon helped steady things with a 20-run stand alongside opener Charlotte Edwards, but when Bee fell, Wandin were in a precarious position at 4/42.

Tilly Pearce was promoted up the order to stabilise the innings, and her partnership with Charlotte proved to be the turning point. The pair put on a crucial 68-run stand, shifting momentum back in Wandin’s favour. Tilly’s invaluable 27 ended with the score on 106, but the remaining batters held their nerve to get us over the line, with Nyree George anchoring the innings at the end. Charlotte Edwards was the standout, leading from the front with a brilliant 59—an innings that propelled the team into next week’s Grand Final. A fantastic effort under pressure.

1st XI: Dominant Opening Stand Powers

Confidence-Boosting Win

Wandin’s 1st XI faced Montrose at home in the final game of the regular season. While the result wouldn’t affect ladder positions, maintaining winning form ahead of finals was crucial.

Losing the toss, Wandin were sent into the field as Montrose posted a competitive 233. Wickets were shared around, with Taylan Hall (1/32), Callum Gordon (1/40), Dan Trembath

(1/31), and Jarrod Dobson (1/23) all keeping things tight. Once again, Rory Vallence bowled exceptionally, finishing with 2/48.

Chasing 234, this was set to be a valuable hit-out for Wandin’s batters before finals. However, only two players were needed to get the job done. Openers Jamie Atkinson (80) and Bryce Edwards made a mockery of the chase, putting on an unbeaten partnership that saw us overhaul Montrose’s total in just the 28th over. Bryce Edwards was simply outstanding, carrying his bat from start to finish with a sensational 131 not out. His remarkable innings, alongside Jamie’s composed 80 not out, ensured Wandin head into finals full of confidence. A dominant performance to finish the season, securing second place on the ladder—equal on points with the top side.

Charlotte Edward’s 59 powered the Wandin Women to a Grand Final. (Supplied)

L-R: Bryce Edwards and Jamie Atkinson’s opening stanza saw Wandin dominate Montrose in the final game of the regular season. (Supplied)

They