Kynon makes nationals
Lilydale Swimming Club’s Kynon qualified for nationals, the first member of the club to do so in six years.
With the backing of the whole club, his family and of course, coach Duana Mcleod, the teenager will compete in three separate races in Brisbane.
For Duana the achievement of making it to nationals was enough given the hardship the club has faced since losing its home base in Kilsyth but Kynon wants to see how far he can get.
To read the full story, turn to page 12
Kynon received the full support of his fellow swimmers who congratulated him on Wednesday 9 April. (Mikayla van Loon: 471908)
Traffic worries
By Mikayla van Loon
The approval of Lilydale’s newest Main Street development was opposed by both community and some councillors but was ultimately approved by Yarra Ranges Council.
It was this and the reduction of statutory carparking that saw the Lilydale Township Action Group (LTAG) and councillors Mitch Mazzarella and Len Cox raise concerns.
“We are disappointed we need to object to the approval of the development at 304 to 322 Main Street on the grounds that the proposal has significant impacts on traffic flow, increases parking
A three-storey medical, childcare and convenience store building will move into the vacant block between Lilydale CFA and the Hyundai dealership with access mainly from Hardy Street.
stress, doesn’t adequately address parking needs, and the proposed parking arrangements are inadequate and impractical and do not take into account a number of impending changes,” LTAG secretary Sharyn Manning said.
Understanding of the fact that these kinds of developments were needed in Lilydale, Ms Manning said she and LTAG were not opposed to the development but rather the impacts it may have on an already congested part of the township and the parking challenges experienced by traders. Cr Tim Heenan put forward the application for approval, supported by Cr Richard Higgins, who both stated the council’s own parking assessment and survey reduced their worries that this development may exacerbate any issues.
Full story on page 5
All back Urgent Care Clinic
By Dongyun Kwon
Federal election candidates for Casey spoke to Star Mail about their promise for better healthcare, focusing on an urgent care clinic (UCC) in Yarra Ranges.
UCCs provide GP-led care to people who need urgent care but not an emergency response, which includes treatment for mild infections, burns, suspected fractures, and sprains. They also provide pathology and imaging services that may be onsite or located nearby.
Despite Lilydale being on the government’s potential target areas, Labor candidate for Casey, Naomi Oakley said only a re-elected Labor Government will deliver a UCC to this region, suggesting Healesville as the chosen area.
“UCCs were developed by Labor to provide easy access 24 hours a day bulk billed medical attention,” she said.
“Since being elected, we already have 87 UCCs, and announced we will open another 50 clinics if we are re-elected. Importantly, these 50 additional clinics, including one in Casey are funded in Labor’s budget.
“Healesville has an appropriate location with connected services and has a huge need, Healesville will be the location chosen.”
The Labor candidate criticised the Liberal Party for weakening Medicare and bulk billing, saying the Liberal candidate Aaron Violi was making a promise he can’t deliver.
“Aaron Violi’s promise of a UCC, like his promises to deliver $15 million in grants to local sporting clubs will not be delivered by a Dutton Government. They will slash government spending as they attempt to find the $600 billion they need for their disastrous nuclear reactor policy.
“Additionally, when a UCC is funded for an area, it goes out to independent tender to those interested in operating the clinic. It is independent and ultimately the winning tender will determine the exact location. Again. Aaron can’t make promises unless he believes he can somehow fix the tender process.”
Incumbent Liberal candidate Aaron Violi invited shadow health and aged care minister Anne Ruston and Yarra Ranges mayor Jim Child to discuss the issue at Healesville Hospital on Wednesday 9 April.
Mr Violi and Senator Ruston confirmed that an elected Liberal Government would deliver a new UCC in Healesville to improve access to healthcare for the wider Yarra Ranges community.
Senator Ruston said after working closely with Mr Violi, the Liberal Party decided to support the idea of having a UCC in Healesville.
“We’ve listened to the local community, and we’ve heard through Aaron that the local community here in this area have said that (Healesville) is where they think is the best place to be able to deliver the maximum amount of opportunity and benefit to the community, so we are happy to support the community in their assessment of where the best place is,” she said.
“What we want to do is to provide this community and the people who live around this community with the opportunity to be able to get access to subacute, urgent primary care, to make sure that we’re taking pressure off the Maroondah Hospital because we know that so
many people are ending up going all the way into Maroondah for things that could be actually addressed in their community if those services were open.”
Mr Violi said the electorate of Casey spanned almost 2700 square kilometres but doesn’t have a single emergency department within its boundaries.
“I’ve been advocating for a Medicare UCC in the Yarra Ranges, because residents in our community need and deserve access to healthcare that is close to home and doesn’t break the bank,” he said.
“Despite any claims by the Labor candidate for Casey, it is clear that the Albanese Labor Government intends to locate an Urgent Care Clinic in Lilydale, not Healesville, as announced by Minister for Health Mark Butler in his statement.
Greens candidate Dr Merra Blair promised a better healthcare system in Casey which aligns with a key part of the Greens’ plan.
Dr Blair also advocates for a UCC to be located in Healesville.
Dr Blair said both Liberal and Labor had failed to provide the healthcare Australians need, leaving all Australians to face increasing healthcare costs and long wait times.
“As part of Greens’ plan, if I am elected in Casey, I will advocate for a UCC in the Yarra Valley, at Healesville Hospital and/or Yarra Valley Health. It will be important to assess the area for the best location - or locations - to ensure access to high-quality urgent care is available to everyone in the community,” she said.
“The needs of the community also need to be better understood, to make sure a UCC will be enough to fill the current healthcare gap. The current plan of the Labor Government to place an UCC in Lilydale demonstrates a clear lack of understanding of the needs of the residents of Casey. People living in Lilydale have better access to existing services than those in and around Healesville and Warburton. To continue to ignore the communities that live further out of the suburbs of Melbourne is putting lives at risk.
“I have heard from many residents who have had to drive loved ones from Healesville to Ringwood for emergency treatment, and one resident who waited more than an hour for assistance with an injured motorcyclist after a life-threatening accident. To complement an urgent care clinic, additional or improved healthcare services - such as telehealth, mental health, or general health - may also be needed.”
Independent candidate Claire Ferres Miles is also in the same line with other candidates in terms of the need for proper healthcare including the return of emergency care to the Yara Valley.
Ms Miles said it is a failure of both major parties that the Casey electorate has no emergency care.
“Healesville Hospital does not have an emergency department on-site and the Warburton Hospital closed its doors on 14 March 2001. Both Maroondah and Angliss Hospitals are outside the electorate,” she said.
“For people that live in the Yarra Valley and Upper Yarra when you call 000 for an ambulance, they recommend you get in your own car to drive to Maroondah Hospital as it will be fast-
er than waiting for an ambulance, or the Flying Doctor will turn up to pick you up. This is unacceptable. No one should have to wait or travel far in an emergency.
While all candidates have pledged to improve healthcare in the Yarra Valley and Casey area, Ms Miles said she’ll take a different approach to delivering on that promise as the UCCs are an expensive model of care.
“I support a return of emergency care to the Yarra Valley with funding to invest in and expand our current healthcare system. I am committed to achieving the highest value outcome of public money for residents in the Yarra Valley with a community-led service designed with local GPs and community health services, taking account of and understanding the opportunities and issues with our current health facilities in the Valley (Healesville Hospital and Yarra Valley Health, Warburton Hospital, Oonah Aboriginal Health and Community Services, EACH and Inspiro). With delivery of the Warburton Mountain Bike project in Warburton, Warby locals have raised with me the opportunity to provide emergency care at Warburton Hospital for locals and mountain bike riders. Success is achieving a community-led service which delivers emergency care to residents in both Healesville and Warburton.”
Family First candidate Dan Nebauer agreed Healesville Hospital would be a logical place to establish a UCC given it is the largest centre in the Yarra Valley.
“These are my own thoughts, and if it is not the current Family First policy, I would certainly argue for it,” he said.
Animal Justice candidate Chloe Bond is
aware of the need for a UCC in the Yarra Valley and said she plans to advocate for having two clinics in both a long-term and short-term capacity.
The Animal Justice candidate said although living in rural or semi-rural areas requires some sacrifices, which most are happy to make for the benefits, basic needs such as adequate healthcare should not be sacrificed.
“I have a young daughter with asthma and on two occasions while living in the Yarra Valley, we have had to make urgent trips to Maroondah Hospital,” she said.
“One of these trips was at 3am when we were able to make it to the hospital and have her receive the urgent treatment she needed in time, but this was because there was no traffic. The second time she was in an ambulance, which was switched at Mount Evelyn to a specialist team of paramedics who were able to sustain her until we arrived at Maroondah Hospital. In both instances, if we were in normal traffic conditions travelling from where we live in the Valley to Lilydale, she may not have made it.
“I, therefore, would advocate for Healesville to be the location of a UCC. Healesville Hospital is currently in a position to allow this service to immediately go ahead. However, I would also advocate for a second UCC in Warburton. I understand that the Warburton Hospital is not in a position to host this service immediately, hence why this would be a long-term project.”
Trumpet of Patriots’ Phillip Courtis and Pauline Hanson’s One Nation’s Ambere Livori declared their candidacy after Star Mail’s deadline and will be contacted for future election coverage in Star Mail.
Liberal candidate Aaron Violi (middle), who is currently holding the seat of Casey, invited shadow health and aged care minister Anne Ruston (right) and Yarra Ranges mayor Jim Child (left) to discuss the issue of the urgent care clinic. (Dongyun Kwon: 471639)
Arrests after arson
Police arrested two men as part of an ongoing investigation into two allegedly deliberately lit factory fires in Melbourne’s east, which caused an estimated $25 million in damage.
The arson attacks, believed to be linked, occurred at businesses in Bayswater and Kilsyth late last year and early this year.
Detectives from Knox Crime Investigation Unit with assistance from Eastern Region Crime Squad and Knox SOCIT executed three search warrants this month across Melbourne’s southeast.
A 39-year-old Dandenong man was arrested following a search warrant in Nar Nar Goon. He was charged with three counts of criminal damage by fire, and three counts of theft of motor vehicle. He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrate Court.
A 38-year-old Dandenong North man was arrested following a search warrant in Dandenong North. During the search warrant, police located and seized illicit drugs. He was charged with criminal damage by fire. He was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrate Court on 22 July.
AfurthersearchwarrantwasexecutedinNarre Warren North. During the search warrant, police located weapons, large amount of stolen goods and a stolen truck. Two further people were arrested for matters unrelated to the investigation.
The arrests follow a public appeal for information into the two incidents, where police believe a group of offenders gained access to factories in Bayswater and Kilsyth, poured petrol inside, and deliberately set the buildings alight.
The first incident occurred about 4am on
Police have arrested two people after two separate arson attacks in Kilsyth and Bayswater. (Victoria Police)
Monday 23 December 2024, at a business on Melrich Road, Bayswater. The second incident occurred at a separate business on Canterbury Road, Kilsyth about 3am on Wednesday 1 January 2025.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au
Pedestrian airlifted as highway shut
By Mikayla van Loon
A serious collision in Lilydale under the rail bridge saw one person airlifted to hospital and forced Maroondah Highway to close early last week.
Police believe a pedestrian was struck by a bus on Main Street at around 7.20am on Wednesday 9 April.
“Paramedics provided treatment at the scene before he was airlifted to hospital in a serious but non-life-threatening injury,” a police spokesperson said.
“The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are being investigated.”
Ambulance Victoria confirmed paramedics were called to the incident just after 7am.
“One person has been airlifted to the Alfred Hospital,” they said.
Traffic was detoured around the closure using local roads under the direction of emergency services, causing delays up to 30 minutes.
The Highway reopened at around 1.30pm following extensive investigation from police.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV, dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Roof repair alleged scam
Victoria Police have charged two men after alleged fraudulent building works were carried out across the Yarra Ranges.
The men, who are Irish nationals, approached older, more vulnerable members of the community in the Hallam, Kilsyth and Mooroolbark areas. The pair, aged 26-years-old and 24-years old, allegedly told victims their roofs were in need of repair, before getting up on the roof and breaking tiles.
Victims were charged tens of thousands of dollars for substandard, unfinished, or in some cases no work at all. The men were arrested on the Thursday 10 April, and have since been charged with attempt to obtain property by deception, obtain property by deception and possessing the proceeds of crime.
The men were bailed to appear at a later court date. If you or your relatives are having any repairs or building works done, be sure your tradespersons are appropriately licensed before signing contracts.
For more information on engaging licensed tradespersons, visit vba.vic.gov.au/consumers/ home-renovation-essentials
Long-weekend road blitz
April will see local police forces hone in on road safety in high-risk areas along with a new operation launched to commence a state-wide blitz.
Police will be prioritising road safety with several localised operations to be conducted in high-risk areas, culminating in a major statewide road policing blitz over the Easter and Anzac Day period.
Operation Compass will see the police highly visible and enforced across the state’s roads, commencing on 17 April and running for an extended 10-day period.
Road Policing Assistant Commissioner, Glenn Weir said whether you’re a driver, passenger or pedestrian, road safety is everyone’s responsibility and it’s up to all of us to play our part in making the roads safer.
“Police will have a major focus on road safety this month – motorists can expect to see us highly visible and enforcing across the state’s roads, particularly over the upcoming Easter and Anzac Day period.”
75 lives have been lost on Victorian roads in 2025, equal to 75 at the same time last year, with more than half of this year’s fatal collisions occurring on regional roads.
For more information and tips for staying safe on the roads during April, visit the Road Safety page on the Victoria Police website. Warby Highway accident witnesses Police are seeking witnesses and dashcam of a collision on 22 March.
A grey Ford Fiesta was travelling east on Warburton Highway, Woori Yallock at about 5.15pm when a vehicle described as a dark four wheel drive tapped the rear of the Fiesta before allegedly ramming it off the road at around 1850 Warburton Highway, Woori Yallock, causing extensive damage to it.
The four wheel drive failed to stop and left the scene.
Any witnesses to the collision itself or the offending vehicles driving before or after the collision please contact the investigating member Leading Senior Constable Jordan Wright from the Mooroolbark Police Station on 9725 9999 or Jordan.Wright@police.vic.gov.au quoting reference TIS-T20250008586.
Maroondah Highway, Lilydale was closed after a pedestrian was struck by a bus. (Stewart Chambers: 279750)
Parking better, ‘not perfect’
By Mikayla van Loon
After reviewing the parking restrictions for Lilydale at the request of the community and as part of a new precinct plan, Yarra Ranges Council has confirmed a suite of changes.
Accepting of the new restrictions but not entirely convinced it will be enough, Lilydale Township Action Group (LTAG) secretary Sharyn Manning said “it’s not perfect but it’s better than what it was”.
The council engaged with the community through a consultation process and had further discussions with the township group earlier this year.
“Council attended an LTAG meeting in March to present the pages and gather additional feedback, and received positive feedback from the group,” a spokesperson said.
The updated Lilydale Parking Precinct Plan will now accommodate an increase of 67 unrestricted (untimed) spaces and 87 spaces with an increased, four hour restriction.
Ms Manning said those unrestricted parking spots would be great for the township but they were in places where parks were often full anyway.
“The problem is, it’s not additional parking and they’re always filled anyway. So everybody, the traders, will be fighting to get those parks,” she said.
“Many traders don’t have their own private parking. There’d be hundreds, and so many of them have got nowhere to park. They’ve got to try and find an unrestricted parking space or keep running out to change where they’re parking.”
LTAG did request trader permits be introduced to allow all day parking close to their business or workplace but Ms Manning said this was refused.
Requesting four hour parking in certain areas, like outside Linea of the Yarra Valley hairdressers, Ms Manning said these were mostly denied
but the change was accepted near the CFA.
The council confirmed it would replace the one and two hour restrictions along the Maroondah Highway service road in the vicinity of the CFA with a four hour restriction.
Ms Manning said anecdotes from CFA members told of how they had received fines for parking outside the station while attending a job. She hoped the increase would alleviate this.
The council spokesperson also confirmed the removal of two 15 minute parking spaces outside Linea of the Yarra Valley hairdressers at 257 Maroondah Highway.
Ms Manning indicated that these would be changed to two hour parking bays.
Installation of two 15 minute spaces near 176 Maroondah Highway, near Bean Seen Cafe, will replace these, however.
LTAG’s requests to the council also included more accessible parking spaces across the main centre, particularly near medical or pharmacy services.
The council will provide an additional four accessible parking spaces across the precinct to address this.
An accessible parking space outside Main Street Medical and Amcal Pharmacy was part of the ask, and Ms Manning said while it hasn’t been included in these changes because it would require capital works, the council did not reject the proposal but rather said it would “need a timeframe of approximately 12 months”.
Other adjustments include the introduction of four hour restrictions on Clarke Street in the vicinity of the Croquet Club; clarification of council managed spaces at Lions Park and at the rear of the Crown Hotel; and removal of one loading bay and changes to the operational times of the other bays at the intersection of Maroondah Highway and Castella Street.
“We’ve placed orders for signage, which will be installed about May,” the spokesperson said.
The council spokesperson said while the plan allows for visitor turnover with the smaller
timeframes, they understand the need for longer parking and this would continue to be assessed.
“The Lilydale Parking Precinct Plan provides plenty of one and two hour parking spots near shops where turnover is essential,” they said.
“But the plan recognises the need for more medium and long-stay parking needs, so a significant focus of the plan is increasing parking times in key areas.
“Crucially, the plan gives Council the ability to make small localised changes based on the
needs of businesses and motorists.”
Yarra Ranges Council has promised to “raise awareness” of the new restrictions coming into effect at the time of sign installation.
“Parking will continue to be enforced locally, to ensure community members and visitors are using parking spots appropriately.
“We encourage community members to keep an eye out for the new signage, and always check to make sure their parking spot has the timing they need for their visit.”
Yarra Ranges Council has updated its parking restrictions for Lilydale which are expected to be installed in May. (Stewart Chambers: 449958)
Major centre is approved
By Mikayla van Loon
A modern, multi-storey medical centre and childcare facility will be moving into Lilydale despite concerns of a lack of parking and increased traffic in an already congested part of town.
Yarra Ranges councillors, bar Len Cox and Mitch Mazzarella, voted to approve the development for the vacant block between the Lilydale CFA and Hyundai dealership on Main Street.
The three storey building will house three medical centres, a shop and food and drinks premises on the ground floor, seven separate office spaces on the first floor, and a further two office spaces and the childcare centre on the second floor.
It is proposed that a maximum of 130 children will attend the childcare centre, while a total of nine practitioners will occupy the medical and allied health spaces.
Access to the onsite car parking will be at the rear of the building via Hardy Street, with the ground floor providing 41 car spaces and a further 46 car spaces on the first floor, totalling 87. It will also include 16 bicycle spaces.
Based on the use and occupancy, the statutory requirement for parking would require 129 spaces but the developer argued in the planning application, through a parking survey, “the parking demand generated by the proposed development would not require the full statutory rate”.
This was cause for objection by the Lilydale Township Action Group (LTAG), even though it supported the development as a whole secretary Sharyn Manning said it would only exacerbate existing parking and traffic problems in Lilydale.
“We need that development in Lilydale, there’s no doubt about that, and we support it, but we are concerned about parking, the number of parking spaces, and we’re also con-
cerned about the amount of cars that will be coming out onto Hardy Street,” Ms Manning told Star Mail.
Calling the proposed parking arrangements “inadequate and impractical”, LTAG’s objection to the proposal was based on the “significant impacts on traffic flow, increases parking stress, doesn’t adequately address parking needs”.
Speaking at the council meeting on Tuesday 8 April, Ms Manning said “LTAG support appropriate developments” but were “disappointed” in their need to object to the approval.
Having submitted a petition calling for the council to reassess its parking restrictions in Lilydale earlier this year, Ms Manning and the Township group have been advocating for improved conditions for traders and the community to park in town for many months.
With impending changes to the current parking conditions in Lilydale, Ms Manning said this “will change both the demand and the capacity” which was not taken into consideration in the planning application.
Ms Manning also referred to three other approved developments in the vicinity where parking requirements had been reduced, equating to around 62 additional parking spaces lost.
It was also not confirmed whether adequate staff parking would be provided onsite, this most likely being a decision within the tenancy agreement, and the report noting nearby street parking to cater to overflow.
Describing this as “ludicrous, discriminatory, unsafe and unworkable”, Ms Manning said it was not fair to staff who work eight hours to have to move their vehicle throughout the day if they can only park in a two hour zone.
The “high volume” business types was also a major concern for Ms Manning, suggesting that 130 children using the childcare service could mean 260 parental comings and goings each day.
“That’s 260 extra cars going on to Hardy
Street. And the other thing is the medical clinic…one doctor equals 10 patients a day. It’s just going to be quite busy because they’ll be doing that all day and Hardy street at school times and at peak times, the traffic’s backed up anyway.”
Metropol Planning Solutions director Michael Dunn said at the Tuesday meeting, however, that its “comprehensive” parking report “stacks up. We think it’s accurate”.
“Childcare has a peak demand at drop off and pick up times, whereas the other businesses that we’re proposing obviously have their peak demands during business hours,” he said.
“We don’t think the parking dispensation is unreasonable. Our traffic engineers and the council’s traffic engineers are the experts in the field of what the parking and traffic demands (will) be, and they’ve both found it to be reasonable.”
Moving the motion to approve the application, Cr Tim Heenan said because the council “commissioned a separate parking survey” to compare against the developers, he was satisfied this report had been appropriately assessed.
“For the figures to gel almost identically, it gave me a greater degree of confidence in knowing that obviously the developer got it right,” he said.
Opposing the motion, Cr Cox said “Hardy Street at peak hour is an absolute mess, and this is only going to make it worse”.
He also commented on the obstruction it may cause for the CFA when responding to call outs.
A condition of the build requires cars to exit the site by turning left onto Hardy Street only.
The council estimates that 17,000 cars use Hardy Street per day, noting the “traffic team is assessing potential upgrades and traffic management strategies for the entire length of Hardy Street”.
Cr Mazzarella, in a similar vein to Ms Manning, said “I’m not opposed to the development itself” but was concerned about increased traffic and parking.
“Public transport is cited, in an ideal world, we’d love to have as many people as we can on public transport…People will drive. We know people will drive,” he said.
“And as a result, we need parking, and I don’t think we can afford to negotiate away as many of these parking spots as we are.”
Cr Heenan said he could understand the concerns and points raised but believed the planning application met all requirements.
“I’ve been led to understand through our planning department, the needs that would exist throughout the day of the different uses within the facility, overall, the reduction in the statutory minimum car parking requirements is alleviated through the use of shared car parking spaces,” he said.
“This application is an important example of activating that space in that part of Lilydale…this particular development has come at the right time for the right area.”
The application was approved seven votes to two.
A three level medical and childcare centre facility was approved for Main Street Lilydale. (Stewart Chambers: 471211)
Survey shows pain points
By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
In the lead-up to the federal election, Star Mail News ran a community survey over the course of four weeks to gather the thoughts and concerns of residents across the Dandenongs and hills region.
As Australians get ready to cast their votes, it’s clear that people in our local area are tuned in to a wide range of pressing issues –from climate change and housing affordability to public safety and crumbling infrastructure.
In the survey, 114 readers across the Yarra Ranges shared their concerns, and it’s evident that many feel their voices aren’t being heard by the powers that be.
A substantial number of respondents from the Ranges Trader region expressed frustrations about being overlooked, with rapid population growth and strained infrastructure continuing to impact their daily lives.
A key issue for many was immigration, which a large portion of locals see as a primary driver of the pressures on public services. Emerald resident, Gordon Thomson said, “too much immigration.”
Many other locals, like Lisa Stovold from Gembrook, described the rapid influx of people into the region as overwhelming.
“Our beautiful farmland is being gobbled up by greedy land developers. It’s distressing to watch,” she said.
Road conditions were another hot topic. While some locals called for the sealing of dirt roads, others voiced frustration about constant repairs that barely lasted.
“Forget national rail infrastructure – just seal the roads in the Dandenongs. That’s all we’re asking,” Brenda Marshall said.
Road conditions, they said, have long been neglected in outer suburbs, with many residents feeling ignored unless an election is looming.
The state of local healthcare was also a sore
point, with Belinda Purser voicing the growing waitlists for hospitals.
Health services, the cost of living, and electricity prices were identified as top priorities, while broadband, water, and immigration ranked lower on the scale.
Interestingly, the survey revealed an almost even split on whether carbon reduction or cheaper electricity should be prioritised, with 50.9 per cent supporting carbon reduction and 49.1 per cent favouring lower electricity prices.
Most respondents were opposed to nuclear energy (58.8 per cent) and a local nuclear plant (66.7 per cent).
Despite these varied concerns, the overall message from locals was a call for action – especially in addressing the region’s infrastructure issues.
Many people like Judy Hodgson from Belgrave stressed the need for more investment in renewable energy, alongside better roads, and housing.
“Good infrastructure is essential to support our community, especially with the population growing,” she said.
As housing affordability continues to be a challenge, many locals worry about the balance between welcoming newcomers and ensuring that existing residents can find affordable homes.
“The housing market is just crazy right now,” James Reid from Ferntree Gully said.
“We can’t even house the people who are already here, let alone more immigrants.”
Others, like Graham Crichton, are a bit more optimistic.
“We need to focus on reducing demand on housing and road congestion, but we also need to protect our beautiful areas, like the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley,” he said.
Public safety is another issue on the minds of locals – residents have noticed a worrying surge in crime, particularly in tourist spots like Belgrave.
Nerida Bermingham-Dodig, a local resi-
dent, pointed out that while Belgrave is a popular destination, it’s increasingly feeling unsafe due to rising crime and public disorder.
“Graffiti is everywhere, and it’s starting to feel unsafe,” she said.
Residents are calling on the elected government to keep their communities safe and that it should be a top priority.
A deeper concern for many in the survey was the growing influence of social media on public opinion.
Residents like Carol Atkin and James Reid expressed frustration over what they see as biased reporting and misinformation that spreads online.
“We need more honest, fair reporting,” Carol said.
“The media can easily mislead people, and that’s a big problem when it comes to making informed decisions.”
But it’s not just local issues that are keeping residents up at night – global security and rising tensions around the world are also weighing heavily on their minds.
Many residents pointed to the instability in regions like the Middle East and Europe, as well as rising tensions with global powers like China and Russia.
“We live in dangerous times,” Brenda Marshall said, urging for stronger defence measures to protect Australia from global threats.
Overall, the survey results paint a picture of a community that feels sidelined by politicians and concerned about the future.
As the federal election approaches on Saturday, 3 May, residents of the Dandenongs and hills want to ensure their voices are heard. They’re looking for practical, common-sense solutions to their problems – not just more promises. With concerns ranging from climate change to infrastructure, housing, and safety, it’s clear that the people of the Dandenongs are looking for a government that will take real action to address the issues they care about.
Locals want the elected government to address housing shortages for current residents before increasing immigration numbers. (On file)
Rises hit homeowners hard
By Callum Ludwig
Insurance prices are a hot topic ahead of election time and new analysis has indicated home insurance prices in the Outer East might be among the most expensive in the state Financial comparison site Finder picked an address in each suburb of 31 Melbourne LGAs, obtained three quotes from major insurance providers and found an average figure from each.
Lilydale and Ringwood in Yarra Ranges and Maroondah each featured in the top five of those selected, while Wantirna in Knox also made the top 10 highest average price.
Finder insurance expert Peta Taylor said it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what causes an increase in premiums because insurers all calculate risk differently.
“When an insurer assesses the risk of an area to determine a premium, they’ll look at; natural disaster risk (bushfire, flood, storms), the cost of labor and materials for rebuilds, any prior claims, crime rates in the area and general inflation,” she said.
“There’s not a lot of regulation around home insurance prices so that means insurers have the freedom to be as price competitive (or not) as they want,”
“That’s why it’s always worthwhile shopping around, two almost identical policies can be priced thousands of dollars apart for no real apparent reason.”
In Ringwood, Finder was quoted $1889, $3452 and $2320 for an average price of $2557, the second highest average of LGAs covered in the analysis.
In Lilydale, the prices received were $1990, $2169 and $3049 for an average of $2403 (fifth highest in the state).
Wantirna rounded out the top 10 with prices of $2267, $2514 and $1940 for an average of $2241.
In nearby Cardinia, Pakenham was the
suburb chosen and it was one of the lowest cost of LGAs with quotes of $1982, $1491 and $2193 for an average of $1889.
Ms Taylor said underinsurance is dangerous because it leaves people’s largest asset, their home, unprotected.
“This means they stand to lose hundreds of thousands of dollars, and that’s just if we’re discussing the financial issues, there’s obviously a lot more that comes with being forced out of your home without any financial support,” she said.
“The thing about insurance is that it needs to be in place before the problem hits — whether that’s a burst pipe or a bad storm and if you don’t, then you’re not eligible to claim,”
“This means you can’t afford to go without it and then buy a policy when you hear that a bad storm is coming or see that you’ve got water damage from something, it’s a huge gamble to go without home insurance, which makes its excessive expense even more troublesome.”
Ms Taylor gave an example where slight differences in product, such as the limit of a benefit like lock replacement, were an insurer offering a lock replacement limit of $500 will be cheaper than one with a limit of $1000.
Ms Taylor said shopping around for the best price is critical and comparison could be a difference of thousands of dollars.
“We’ve done a heap of research and we know there are policies out there that are charging an arm and a leg, yet offer less coverage than those who are cheaper,” she said.
“Knowledge is power with this stuff, always take the time to shop around and really understand what you’re actually covered for, you can use our Finder Score to help understand which policies offer good value for money.”
Ms Taylor gave a list of ways local residents can look to save money on their insurance:
- Reassess cover, removing optional extras that aren’t a priority.
- Increase your excess to a larger but still affordable amount.
- Reevaluate other bills, such as mobile plans, for saving opportunities.
-Look for monthly premium providers, avoiding any with additional costs for doing so.
- Call your insurer about price flexibility, or compare and switch.
A spokesperson from the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) said insurers are very aware of the impact that inflation is having on the price of cover, driven by ongoing inflation in the building and motor repair sectors, the jump in reinsurance costs globally, the rising cost of extreme weather, and the increasing value of their assets.
“Additionally, Australia’s most densely populated areas on the east coast are exposed to our most expensive extreme weather events, a scenario that’s unlikely to change quickly,”
they said.
“One immediate way that premiums can be reduced in cost is the removal of unfair taxes and levies. In 2023-24 , the states earned $8.6 billion in stamp duty from insurance, which is almost 60 per cent more than insurers collectively made in profit that year, this financial year the Victorian Government estimates that it will collect $2.2 billion in stamp duty directly from insurance customers.”
The ICA in March released a pre-election policy platform called Advancing Australia’s Resilience, which included a call for a $30.15 billion Flood Defence Fund to better protect flood-exposed communities and homes in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, including around the Yarra River.
The ICA spokesperson said in Victoria, communities in the Goulburn River and Yarra River catchments were identified as priority areas for funding.
“Investment in mitigation such as critical flood defence infrastructure, strengthening properties in harm’s way such as through retrofits, funding managed relocation (buybacks) and future-proofing existing flood mitigation infrastructure will help protect communities from flood risk,” they said.
“Insurance prices risk, and a higher premium generally indicates higher risk. In particular, floods pose a critical threat to Australia, around 1.36 million properties are at risk of flooding, and it is estimated that half of these properties fall short of the flood resilience measures of modern planning and building standards.”
“There are some things though that all customers can do to lower the price of their insurance, the ICA’s strong advice for all customers is to shop around and compare policies to find the best deal, customers can also explore simplifying their policy and lifting their excess to help moderate the cost of their insurance premiums.”
Home insurance prices in Yarra Ranges and Maroondah are among the highest in the state. (File)
Speaking out on insurance
By Callum Ludwig
Insurance prices in the electorate of Casey were a hot topic at a recent ‘Meet the Candidates’ event in Tecoma.
With new analysis highlighting just how high home insurance can be in the Yarra Ranges, the Star Mail asked the prospective politicians how they would like to see the issue addressed.
Since putting questions to candidates, a few more people (Animal Justice Party’s Chloe Bond, Ambere Livori from Pauline Hanson’s One Nation and Trumpet of Patriots Phillip Courtis) have put their names up to run in the Casey electorate. These candidates will be contacted for any election coverage in the Star Mail prior to election day.
Greens candidate Dr Merran Blair said rising home insurance premiums are particularly an issue in Casey, where we see the increased risk of bushfires, floods, and other climate change events as reasons for insurance companies to raise premiums.
“Firstly, we need to take action to address climate change so the impacts of extreme weather events are minimised and insurance premiums are lowered, the climate crisis is negatively impacting all aspects of modern life in Casey and this has been a reality for some time, as we see bushfires, storms, and flooding increasing and limiting our ability to communicate, connect, and power our houses,” she said. “My house insurance premiums have increased by 300 per cent in the past five years, and I have to shop around each time I renew, last year when it came time to auto-renew the cost was double what I ended up paying when I shopped around, but not everyone does this, and I fear that insurance companies may be taking advantage,”
“To monitor insurance premiums I want to see greater accountability from insurance companies to justify their premium increases
with stronger disclosure obligations, and more ACCC (Australian Competition and Consumer Commission) powers to monitor and act on this, I also want to make polluting coal, gas and oil companies contribute to an expanded reinsurance pool and Disaster Ready Fund.”
The Greens also want to abolish stamp duty on home and car insurance, expand the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool to include all natural disasters and establish a public national disaster risk map and database.
Liberal candidate and incumbent Casey MP Aaron Violi said we can’t afford to continue on our current path.
“Insurance is an ongoing challenge for our community, we live among a beautiful landscape, but our community has a long history of natural disaster – whether it’s bushfire, storms or flooding, we know that many local residents and businesses cannot get the insurance they need, which is causing families to be underinsured, or in some cases not insured at all,”
“It is vital that families have adequate coverage for their assets, and the Coalition has put insurers on notice that if we receive evidence which shows that the market isn’t functioning properly then we will take strong action,”
“Our expectation is that insurers meet their legal obligations and deliver affordable insurance to their customers and we are closely monitoring this sector.”
Independent candidate Claire Ferres Miles pointed to research by The Australia Institute released on 5 March which found that one in five Australians (19 per cent) are either underinsured or uninsured, representing 1.4 million homes and that the middle 20 per cent of Australian households (about 1.95 million people) would lose 74 per cent of their wealth if their home is destroyed in a natural disaster and the poorest 20 per cent of Australians, would lose more than half of their wealth if they had no contents insurance.
Ms Ferres Miles said soaring insurance premiums in Casey are a major pain point, contributing to cost-of-living pressures. “The people of Casey are living each and every day with a climate crisis, with thousands of families like mine impacted by more frequent and more extreme storms, floods, landslips and bushfires, and we know each emergency is not a one-off but our new normal,” she said.
“Casey is also experiencing rising levels of underinsurance or no insurance, people have told me they are choosing between paying either the home insurance or the car insurance as they can’t afford both, under insurance or no insurance is not a possibility, it is a reality in Casey. The Federal Government is not doing enough to address climate risk, with climate resilience a massive gap in federal policy, I support a meaningful increase in funding
for resilience and preparedness measures to protect residents and businesses, this must be a priority of the next Parliament.”
Ms Ferres Miles also pointed to a Senate Select Committee on the Impact of Climate Risk on Insurance Premiums and Availability which tabled its final report in November 2024 and made two recommendations related to the insurance sector:
Insurance companies be required to provide policyholders with a sufficient breakdown and explanation of insurance premium costs, including details of price changes in response to resilience and disaster mitigation measures undertaken
For the ACCC to monitor premium prices across Australia and publish monitoring reports on a quarterly basis on its website.
Labor candidate Naomi Oakley said the Casey electorate has been impacted by severe natural disasters floods and bushfires, and these and other worldwide factors have resulted in significantly increased home insurance premiums.
“In Victoria, the average cost of premiums has risen by around $425 to around $2442, these increases are causing great financial stress and putting homeowners in danger of being unable to afford insurance,” she said
“The major cause of the increased premium is the level of natural disasters occurring around the world and the resulting increase in reinsurance rates, that means local insurance companies are paying much higher premium to reinsure. This is a major problem requiring a major rethink on how we do insurance in Australia – because the natural disasters will keep on coming. If elected, I will commit to working for a fundamental review of how we do insurance for property in Australia, including the creating of our own Australia reinsurance pool.”
Family First candidate Dan Nebauer was contacted for comment.
Tourism proposal ‘rushed’
By Tanya Steele
After a lengthy discussion, the Yarra Ranges Council endorsed the establishment of a new Visitor Economy Partnership (VEP) at Tuesday’s, 8 April, council meeting.
Not unanimous in its decision, councillors questioned the VEP to be known as Tourism East and the discussion lasted nearly an hour on the night.
David Pratt, former president and current senior advisor of the caravan and residential park industry association, co-owner of Warburton Holiday Park, and Vice President of the Advancement League, spoke at the meeting concerned the VEP proposal was both rushed and lacked adequate communication.
Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child heard Mr Pratt’s concerns and said the council is in a very difficult position with the State Government having ceased funding for Yarra Ranges Tourism, with an end date of June this year.
The report was presented to councillors and asked them to endorse the creation of a new regional VEP Tourism East, pending approval from both Cardinia and Nillumbik Shire Councils.
VEPs are state-driven and have been in the works since April 2021 as part of visitor economy recovery and reform plans that aim to transition regional tourism boards like Yarra Ranges Tourism into VEPs across Victoria.
Details included transferring Yarra Ranges Council’s tourism agreement to the new Tourism East partnership until June 2028 and plans will commit $300,000 annually and one full-time staff member to the partnership for three years.
VEP framework details that entities with three or more regional councils will be eligible for $350,000 of funding per year from the Victorian Government – an increase on the current funding of $271,500 per annum.
“In my assessment, based on this report, it is being rushed, reliant on untested assumptions, lacking structural clarity, including even a defined constitution at this point for the entity in question, and the structure of the report with missing data,” Mr Pratt said to councillors.
“The report acknowledges that the Yarra Ranges visitor economy is four times that of Nillumbik and nearly twice that of Cardinia’s. Yet under this plan, Yarra Ranges Shire may be subsidising both,” he said.
“If this proposal proceeds without broader consultation, without fiscal rigour and without adequate governance structures in already in
place, then I’d suggest our local democracy is more precarious than I fear.”
Mayor Child asked the executives to comment on Mr Pratt’s concerns, the consultation process and the removal of the state government funding.
Manager for Tourism, Economy and Culture
Anne Blakeway said the team had performed an industry engagement on 24 March.
“Leigh Harry, the Yarra Ranges Tourism Chair and I met, with representatives from Yarra Valley Wine Growers, Tourism Network Yarra Valley, Warburton Valley Cedar and Dandenong Ranges Tourism,” she said.
Addressing the breakdown of some of the
financials Ms Blakeway said the figures came about as a result of the visitation numbers.
“Yarra Ranges has significantly more visitation than Cardinia and Nillumbik Shire,” she said.
The funding numbers and the rushed feel of the report were attributed to timing and the need to hold onto State Government funds.
“We don’t really have much opportunity and while we can go out on our own, we won’t have access to State Government funding, and we won’t have a voice at the table if we do go out on our own so and hence, the reason for the relative rush is that State Government funding for YRT ends on 30th of June, and subject to being a
Mid-year report shows Yarra Ranges Council is on track to meet its goals
By Oliver Winn
The Yarra Ranges Council delivered its mid-year report on Tuesday 8 April, claiming it’s largely on track for the goals it set out in its 2021-2025 Council Plan.
Out of the five key strategic objectives, all of the actions were either “on track” or “completed”, with the exception of one action under the quality infrastructure and liveable places key strategic objective.
The 2021-2025 Council Plan is the planning document for the four year electoral term, while the mid year report is a performance update for the first half of the 2024-2045 financial year.
Yarra Ranges Council deputy mayor Richard Higgins said the progress report shows the council was aligned with its long term vision for 2036.
“There are now eight major initiatives progressing and set to be closed out in the financial year, which is good, and 35 council actions under lining in the plan, five are complete and 29 are on track for completion, one has ceased,” Cr Higgins said.
Its five key strategic objectives were as follows:
Connected and healthy communities, protected and enhanced natural environment, quality infrastructure and liveable places, vibrant economy, agriculture and tourism and high performing organisation.
The action to establish a Development Contributions Plan (DCP) has ceased.
In the past, DCPs allowed councils to charge developers a small fee of a build to fund infra-
structure projects - this meant fairer distribution in funding infrastructure projects in the area by having developers contribute funds.
But, due to not enough planning applications, and recent changes made by the State Government, the DCP wasn’t viable for the Yarra Ranges Council anymore and therefore it was stopped.
A draft DCP was assessed at a council forum on 23 January 2024 where the chief executive officer Tammi Rose determined it wasn’t feasible to continue with the plan.
Eight major initiatives were also shown to be on track in the mid-year report.
The initiative to improve Aboriginal health and wellbeing was said to be on track, with the council pointing towards the Aboriginal health facility, Healesville Belonging Place, being developed by Oonah Health and Community Services Aboriginal Corporation.
Its second initiative was to become a world class trails and eco-tourism destination, with examples of the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination, Yarra Valley Trail and ngurrak barring being on schedule for completion.
The third initiative was the implementation of a Biodiversity Plan, which was stated as on track in the report.
The plan provided guidance when managing land in partnership with bodies such as DEECA and friends of groups.
Reducing the council’s ecological footprint was outlined as its fifth initiative, with the council’s transition to 100 per cent renewable electricity being established in 2022 through the Victorian Energy Collaboration (VECO),
a 10-year contract involving over 50 Victorian councils.
As of July 2023, Yarra Ranges has reduced its emissions by 48 per cent compared with the 2004/2005 baseline.
The other initiatives outlined as on track were:
Improve mental health outcomes, strengthen social connections, and provide accessible mental health services, Prioritising places for activity centres and town centres, Achieve greater emergency planning, focus on traditional cultural burning practices, And the Build Back Better approach to economic recovery and adaptation activities.
partner in the VEP, the state funding will go up in amount,” Ms Blakeway said.
After some discussion and a recess, a seventh point was added to the report before councillors voted.
It requested that the Chief Executive Officer protect the interests of the Yarra Ranges community representation within the new constitution, which has yet to be presented, and ensure ‘greater industry engagement’ moving forward, including a breakdown of costs across industry cost allocations at future forum meetings.
The motion was then passed with councillors Mitch Mazzarella and Gareth Ward voting against the endorsement.
Flag policy
By Oliver Winn
A former national serviceman called upon the Yarra Ranges Council to include the Australian flag on digital and printed media.
Former national serviceman Chris Thiele said it only made sense to have all three flags on the council’s digital and printed correspondence, considering the three flags were flown outside of the council building.
“They can still have the acknowledgement to Country and fly the other flags as well, but it needs to be all three flags,” Mr Thiele said.
Councillors discussed the matter informally and there was mutual agreement from most councillors to include the flag alongside the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags on correspondence within council.
However, council said no formal decision has been made, and it shouldn’t be assumed that the informal meeting was confirmation of such a change being implemented.
“Yarra Ranges Council has been approached by members of the community seeking to include the Australian Flag on digital and printed material,” Yarra Ranges mayor Jim Child said.
“Council would like to clarify that no decision has been made in relation to the collective use of the Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags on Council’s digital and printed communications.”
“Council can confirm that a review of the council adopted Flag Policy is currently being undertaken in line with council’s obligation to review the policy within 12 months of an election and is due to be considered at council in the coming months,” Cr Child said.
Mr Thiele said he was pleased that there was support from the councillors informally and he would look forward to a decision being made in regards to the council’s flag policy
The council ultimately voted in the endorsement. (File)
The only action abandoned by council was the Development Contributions Plan. (Stewart Chambers: 379657)
Opting out of roo harvest
By Callum Ludwig
Yarra Ranges Council will formally request to be exempt from the Kangaroo Harvesting Program (KHP) after a long-awaited decision was made during the Tuesday 8 April council meeting.
Having been delayed to this month to seek more information from the state government, councillors fast-tracked the discussion to the start of the meeting with many in the gallery attending for the decision.
With Mayor Jim Child stepping out due to a conflict of interest, Deputy Mayor Richard Higgins invited local animal advocate Peter Preuss, who has led the charge for the council to withdraw from the KHP, to speak.
Mr Preuss thanked the council again for letting him speak on the issue of commercial shooting in the Yarra Valley and said he wanted to emphasise the word ‘commercial’.
Some people want to kill kangaroos, some people think they need to, that’s not what we’re asking you to challenge, now the Authority To Control Wildlife (ATCW) can get a permit very easily for over 100 animals, 100 different species and kangaroos are one of them,” he said.
“The permit system that we have, the permit system of authority to kill, is the best thing that we can possibly ask for because it limits the number of kangaroos that are shot, it limits the number of birds, cockatoos, anything that’s killed by a need, not greed basis, as soon as you throw the greed in there, you’ve got a very different situation.”
The Victorian Kangaroo Alliance (VKA), which first formed as Save the Kinley Kangas during the development of the Kinley estate in Lilydale, conducted a quick survey over two weeks from 2 March to 16 March in preparation for the meeting to gather some thoughts from the Yarra Ranges community.
The VKA also sought comments from Aboriginal Elder and academic Aunty Janet Turpie-
Opposers to commercial kangaroo shooting turned out in their droves for the decision.
(Tamsin Ramone)
Johnstone and wildlife veterinarian Dr Natasha Bassett, who are both Yarra Ranges residents.
“For those of us with connections to this Country Kangaroos are Kin, and as members of our families we are expected to protect them, as a resident in the Yarra Ranges, it strikes me as contradictory that we have to lobby and debate an issue such as the welfare of this endemic species, a species that has inhabited these lands for millions of years.” Ms Turpie-Johnstone said.
“Unfortunately, my direct professional experience of commercial harvesters (and the downstream results of their operations) has been nothing short of alarming. I have personally witnessed the trail of brutality left after harvesters have been in operation,” Dr Bassett said.
A Google Form was shared on numerous community Facebook groups across the region and garnered 255 responses, 193 from residents of the shire, 50 that were regular domestic visitors and a few others that either work in the shire, live in a neighbouring LGA, did not disclose where they live or were potential international visitors.
173 (67.8 per cent) did not support commercial shooting activity, 67 (26.2 per cent) supported it, 6 (two per cent) were ambivalent and
9 (three per cent) were unsure. When asked if Yarra Ranges Council should advocate to be removed from the harvest zone, 176 (69 per cent) were for, 70 (27 per cent) were against, 7 (two per cent) were unsure and two people indicated that any decision should conditional, such as being based on a determined population size.
Walling Ward Councillor Len Cox, who put forward the motion, said the kangaroo is without any doubt the best-known animal that belongs to Australia.
“It’s awful to say, but Australia’s got a terrible record of losing our wildlife; we’ve had over 20 marsupials become extinct since European settlement in this country and that in itself is an absolute tragedy, we don’t want to add to that anymore,” he said.
“We’re supposed to know better now, and we certainly don’t want to add kangaroos to that number. the trouble is that killing them is beset by a lot of illegal activity from overshooting, from unsupervised and profit driven, and that isn’t a good reason to keep shooting the roos.”
Comments left in support of commercial shooting in the VKA survey expressed concerns about population size, causing accidents on roads and destroying farmers’ fields while those against it cited cruelty concerns, appreciation of and need to protect native wildlife and potential tourism opportunities as their reasons.
Councillors each took their turn to weigh in on the motion:
“We know that people have the ability to kill those kangaroos themselves on their own property without the harvesters coming in but if this is done on a grand scale it will ultimately become the way of what is existing now in the Wimmera and that we will not have kangaroos in this area,”
Billanook Ward Councillor Tim Heenan said.
Lyster Ward Councillor Peter Mcilwain said he ‘spent many hours’ investigating and it came down to ‘three basic issues’ and whether the
KHP passed moral, management and sustainability standards. He found that the ACTW permit system had a ‘much higher test’ for animal control, the KPH ‘has led to poor outcomes’ for animal welfare and advised while he supports the motion, he did not support claims ‘made against the science’ about kangaroo populations as a whole being endangered.
“I’ve read things and imagined things based on what I’ve read that I will never unsee and change requires discomfort; it requires us to feel extremely uncomfortable to make the decisions that are best so I’m guaranteed never to change my mind on this issue,” Ryrie Ward Councillor Fiona McAllister said.
“Tonight I read out the acknowledgement of country and the very last part of that, the last sentence, ‘We proudly share custodianship to care for country together’’, some people look at that as being the lands and waters but I actually look at that as being all the animals as well… if we’re going to care for country under our acknowledgement we need to look at it all from a big picture point of view,” Streeton Ward Councillor Jeff Marriott said.
“I don’t believe the data is being misrepresented. I think that anyone involved would not want to risk their licenses, their permits and their reputation and the economic incentive is there for the commercial shooters to turn in their kangaroos…I don’t think that this motion should be before council; personally, I think this belongs in the halls of Spring Street,” Melba Ward Councillor Mitch Mazzarella said.
Cr Higgins only spoke to the motion to explain his reasoning for deferring the original motion back in February and Chandler Ward Councillor Gareth Ward did not speak to the motion.
The motion was carried unanimously, with many members of the gallery applauding the decision.
Kynon earns national cap
By Mikayla van Loon
For the first time in six years Lilydale Swimming Club will be represented at nationals even after a tumultuous two years of not having a home base.
Kynon qualified for nationals earlier this year, reaching the necessary state and national times, booking the teenager a spot in the Australian Age Championships in Brisbane.
“It’s definitely a big step. I get to go cross country. I’m excited, nervous but excited,” he said.
Head coach Duana Mcleod said this is something that has been building over a number of years for Kynon, who started competitive swimming at the age of 10.
“It’s been a long time coming, building the long term goal for a couple years, and then that long term goal became shorter and shorter,” she said.
Qualifying for not just one but three separate races, Kynon will compete in the 100 metre fly on Wednesday 16 April, the 400 metre individual medley and the 200 metre back stroke on Friday 18 April.
The 16-year-old trains six days a week, plus gym sessions, to achieve his best, with dreams of the Olympics but said he just wants to go as far as he can in the sport.
“(I want to go) as far as I’m able to get, and see how far I can go. Try my hardest, challenge myself,” he said.
As the only coach, with 53 members in the club, Duana said Kynon’s achievement just shows in a supportive and relatively small club “you can make it, no matter where you are”.
“You just need the right team behind you and the support and the dedication and you can make
9 April. (471908)
it no matter where you go,” she said.
Presented with his nationals swimming cap and t-shirt on Wednesday 9 April, Duana and fellow team mates congratulated Kynon ahead of the competition.
Collectively, Duana said, this was a huge moment for the club after losing its home pool at Kilsyth in 2023 and having to split their training between the Yarra Centre, Knox Leisure Works and the Lilydale Outdoor Pool during summer.
“This closure has impacted the club greatly, it
has led to increased training costs and logistical hurdles, with members now travelling up to 50 minutes for training sessions,” she said.
Because Kilsyth Centenary Pool was the Lilydale Swimming Club’s venue, Duana said the lanes were open to them at any time but at pools outside the council area the club must hire the lanes for training, a cost that is now unsustainable.
“To support the club and its athletes, fundraising initiatives have been launched, aiming to cover costs and sustain the club’s
legacy,” Duana said.
Seeking to raise $7000 to cover essential operating costs, such as coaching fees, equipment, and venue hire, Duana said it would also just ensure the kids and adults at the club are able to continue the thing they love.
“Our club supports itself, the members give back so much to us which is great but we now need outside help.”
Lilydale Swimming Club first established in 1903 serving the community of the Yarra Ranges for over 120 years, making it one of Victoria’s oldest clubs.
Duana said the Kilsyth pool closure was a major hurdle but “members and parents have shown such tenacity and strength” continuing to qualify for state competitions and now nationals, that they’re not going anywhere.
“Almost three years on, we’re making work. It’s not ideal but we’ve got these kids that are so dedicated they want to do it,” she said.
“We haven’t gone anywhere yet. We’re not planning to anytime soon. We’re just this little, small club over here, but achieving big things, and means heaps to the kids who do attend. It’s not just a small club for these guys.
“We’re very much that family focus and I think that’s what keeps people around because we are so close…We’ve still got kids wanting to achieve state times, national times and just be a part of a community.”
To help support the Lilydale Swimming Club, go to asf.org.au/campaigns/lilydale-swimmingclub/keep-us-afloat-support-our-swim-supportlilydale-swim-club
Recognise community heroes in humanitarian awards
Members of the Victorian community have been encouraged to nominate candidates for humanitarian awards.
The annual Fred and Humanity awards celebrate ordinary Australians who make a real difference in their communities in the legacy of eye doctor Fred Hollows.
In the past, the outer east has celebrated two of its own members who gained recognition from the Fred Hollows Foundation for their exemplary compassion and social impact.
The then Year 6 student at Belgrave Heights Christian School Elke Hethaak was one of the Junior Ambassadors for the Fred Hollows Foundation in 2024, while Founder of Leave a Light On and Mount Evelyn resident Suzie Ratcliffe was announced Humanitarian of the Year in 2023.
The Foundation has existed for over three decades and aims to end avoidable blindness and vision impairment across the globe.
In Victoria the Foundation partners with the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS) to provide culturally appropriate eye care.
The Humanity awards were launched in 2012, “a testament to Fred’s deep faith in the goodness of everyday Australians,” as stated by Founding Director Gabi Hollows.
Almost a decade later, in 2021, the Fred Awards were introduced for adults who demonstrated practical, no-nonsense care for those around them.
Gabi Hollows encouraged Victorians to nominate candidates, stating “We invite you to nominate a friend, family member or colleague in this year’s Fred and Humanity Awards. We all know someone who makes the world a better place and deserves to be celebrated.”
This year, nominations were opened to mark the date of what would have been Fred’s 96th birthday and will close on Friday 18 July, 2025.
The 2025 Fred Hollows Humanitarian will be selected by public vote from a group shortlisted by a judging panel, headed by Gabi Hollows.
Specsavers is the corporate partner of the foundation and donates $50 000 on behalf of the Junior Ambassadors and Humanitarian of the Year to assist the Foundation’s mission.
Lilydale Swimming Club head coach Duana Mcleod and Kynon headed to Brisbane for the national competition, the first in six years for the club. (Mikayla van Loon: 471908)
Kynon said he was both nervous and excited to head to Brisbane. (471908)
Kynon received his nationals swimming cap and t-shirt from head coach Duana Mcleod on Wednesday
Elke Hethaak was one of the Junior Ambassadors for the Fred Hollows Foundation in 2024. (Supplied)
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Forum to meet candidates
By Dongyun Kwon
Healesville-Yarra Glen Uniting Church is going to host a forum where locals will be able to meet federal election candidates for Casey.
The forum will be held at the Memo, Healesville on 28 April, starting at 7pm.
Labor candidate Naomi Oakley, Liberal candidate Aaron Violi, Greens candidate Dr Merran Blair, Independent candidate Claire Ferres Miles, and Animal Justice candidate Chloe Bond will come to the forum to communicate with the voters.
Family First candidate Dan Nebauer hasn’t confirmed if he is going to participate in the forum or not.
Healesville-Yarra Glen Uniting Church Council treasurer Dale Prentice said the most of the candidates forums in Casey have been held or organised by Uniting Churches including the first one in Tecoma and the last one in Healesville.
“We have traditionally held the Darren Honey Centre forums for the state government for the last five elections, and the Anglicans ran the federal one last time, but without a minister there, we’ve stepped up to fill that space,” he said.
“We would, traditionally, as the Uniting Church, have run the forums for both state and federal elections.
“What Uniting Church has considered very important is that candidates have the interaction with their community.”
After the Welcome to Country and other formalities, each candidate will give a brief threeminute introduction. Then, the forum will move into a Q and A session.
Healesville-Yarra Glen Church Council chairman Bruce Argyle will be the MC of the event.
Mr Prentice said the Healesville forum will be the largest candidate forum run in Casey, accommodating up to over 200 people.
“We found somebody who is very neutral to be the MC for the event. The feeling of comfort of the candidates is very important to us, so that
they can really express their views clearly without feeling like they’re under attack,” the forum organiser said.
“We’ve put in the free ticketing for people to pose their questions when they book their ticket, and then we will go through all their questions, and try and group questions together because we’ve only got one hour.
“The MC will ask questions on behalf of the audience. With a tiered auditorium, it’s very dif-
ficult to move around with the microphone well in that time frame.”
The questions, that have been submitted so far, are under the themes of energy, cost of living, climate change, incarceration of minors and Indigenous children, and immigration.
“This is the chance for the Healesville community to hear their candidates, but if people beyond want to come, that’s fine,” Mr Prentice said.
“It’s really important that we understand as a
town how we’re represented at Canberra because we hear federal comment, but we don’t often get engagement at that community level.
“This is our chance to ask the candidates questions that are pertinent to Healesville and its surrounds, and to understand how we as a town are represented by our candidates federally.”
To book a ticket, please visit the following website, events.humanitix.com/healesvillemeet-the-candidates-for-casey
L-R: Labor’s Naomi Oakley, Independent Claire Ferres-Miles, Greens’ Merran Blair and Liberals’ Aaron Violi attended the candidates forum held by Tecoma Uniting Church on Saturday 5 April. (Tanya Steele: 470335)
Tuesday 22nd of April 2025 - 11am to 3pm
IN THE SPOTLIGHT ‘Indulging in nonsense’
By Rose Vechoorettu and Mikayla van Loon
A current exhibition at the Yarra Ranges Regional Museum offers the community a chance of “indulging in nonsense”, states founder of Playful Thinking Daniel Teitelbaum.
The playful and interactive exhibit about famous opera singer Dame Nellie Melba, titled A Toast to Melba, introduces the hidden, fun-loving personality of the world-renowned star, encouraging visitors to take on her secret to success: play.
At the beginning of May, Daniel will lead a guided tour of the exhibit drawing on Melba’s own sense of silliness and ability to have fun.
Daniel’s studies in the philosophy of play have led him to design his upcoming tour to develop playful mindsets in visitors, taking them through four steps of playful thinking, overcoming the biggest obstacle in their busy lives - lack of rest - and indulging in creative nonsense.
“Nellie Melba understood the importance of rest. Her home was very much a sanctuary. The rest of the world was the stage,” Daniel said.
Daniel shared his road to discovering and sharing the power of play, including his studies in the School of Life, reading, and the founding of his company, Playful Thinking, in 2018.
“Every aspect of human interaction can be understood through a lens of play”, he stated.
Hoping to let others experience the “obvious and hardcore” benefits of play, Daniel presents Dame Nellie Melba as a “role model” who was aware of the need for rest, self-expression, curiosity, and nonsense.
through Melba’s example.
shared his desire to help adults rediscover and experience the benefits of play
“Any study that’s looked at any angle of how playfulness has been included into adult lives, we see an increase in cognitive function, whether it’s
perception, memory, logic, problem solving, spatial awareness,” he said.
“You can develop... communication skills, strategy skills, problem solving skills, it’s the best way to learn.“
The exhibit offers adults a unique chance to “make noise”, “do nothing” and escape from the stress of day-to-day life.
“If you’ve got that playful friend who needs a reminder of [their] wonderful playful side, then bring that person along,” Daniel said.
The guided tour, the Power of Play, will be held on Thursday 1 May and requires bookings to attend.
Visit: yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Experience/Events/ The-Power-of-Play-A-Guided-Exhibition-Tourwith-Playful-Thinking to book your spot
Purple Pea Wonders keep showing up at Lilydale Library
By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
Lilydale Library is about to become a little bit more magical, starting this Friday, 11 April, visitors will be able to take part in ‘Purple Pea Wonders’, a playful art installation that’s all about discovery, connection, and, of course, positivity.
The project, a collaboration between local artist Dani-Ela Kayler and emerging illustrator Mim White, is bringing whimsical postcards to the library’s shelves.
“The idea behind Purple Pea Wonders is to offer a simple, joyful moment that people can stumble upon unexpectedly,” Dani-Ela said.
“It’s about finding wonder in the everyday and making art accessible to everyone.”
These aren’t just any postcards, though –they’re little bursts of encouragement, designed to surprise and delight you when you least expect it.
The messages on the cards, like “Peas keep showing up” or “Peas hunt the good in others,” are paired with charming illustrations, all created to offer a moment of joy and reflection.
Over the course of four weeks, 700 of these postcards will be hidden in books across Lilydale Library’s collections. Some will be tucked into books on Reserve, waiting for the next person who borrows them, while others will pop up as you wander through the library’s shelves.
It’s like a treasure hunt, but with a twist – instead of looking for gold, you’re searching for a little nugget of positivity.
And the best part? These postcards aren’t just there to be discovered – they’re there to be shared. Each one has a QR code that lets you share your experience and maybe even leave your own little postcard-art for someone else to find. It’s a fun, spontaneous way to engage with the community and spread a little cheer.
Dani-Ela said what makes ‘Purple Pea Wonders’ so special is how it connects with everyone, no matter your age or interests - they have designed the project to be accessible and inclusive, reaching people who might not typically engage with the arts.
“Libraries are public spaces that bring people together, and this installation is all about creating those serendipitous moments that can brighten your day,” Dani-Ela said.
“Whether you’re a bookworm or just popping in for a visit, there’s a chance you could stumble upon something that makes you smile.”
The concept for ‘Purple Pea Wonders’ was born from Dani-Ela’s love for spontaneous moments of joy.
She wanted to create something that could touch people’s lives in unexpected ways, offering a reminder that positive change can happen in fleeting moments.
Based on the success of the pilot project, which was launched in Belgrave earlier last year, Dani-Ela said she knew this was a project that could spread good vibes and make people feel seen, even if just for a moment.
In the Belgrave pilot, feedback showed that people of all ages – from school kids to those in their 70s – appreciated these small, random acts of kindness.
Many shared how discovering a card made their day just a little bit brighter, whether they decided to keep the card or not. Some found themselves smiling simply because someone had thought to leave a bit of art and encouragement for a stranger.
That feeling of being seen, even in such a small way, is what Dani-Ela hopes to bring to the wider Lilydale community with this new installation.
‘Purple Pea Wonders’ also highlights the power of local collaboration.
Dani-Ela and Mim’s work was supported by Yarra Ranges Council through a small grant,
which has allowed them to expand their project and bring it to new audiences.
Dani-Ela’s commitment to supporting local artists is evident, and Mim, who lives locally in the Yarra Valley, is excited to be part of this project, having worked on the illustrations since late 2023.
Mim, at just 19 years old, is a talented young artist with a diverse practice that spans watercolour, gouache, acrylic, and digital art.
She’s also a writer and musician, and her illustrations for ‘Purple Pea Wonders’ reflect her love for whimsical, vibrant art.
She’s drawn inspiration from everything from Studio Ghibli films to Japanese art styles, infusing each piece with a sense of wonder and playfulness.
“For me, this project is not just about creating art – it’s about bringing people together and sharing a moment of joy,” Mim said.
So, if you’re in Lilydale and in the mood for something a little different, why not head to the library and see what you can find?
You might just discover a ‘Purple Pea Wonder’ hiding between the pages of your next great read.
It’s a simple way to add a little spark to your day, and who knows – you might end up brightening someone else’s day, too.
The installation runs until mid-May, so
there’s plenty of time to get involved. Borrow a book, look out for a postcard, and maybe leave one behind for someone else to find. It’s a simple yet heartwarming way to engage with your local community and experience art in a new, accessible way.
Purple Pea Wonders is a creative venture that brings whimsical art and unique creations to life, one purple pea at a time. (Supplied)
Mim White is infusing whimsy and wonder into life with every brushstroke, one purple pea at a time.
Dani-Ela Kayler, the driving force behind Purple Pea Wonders, is creating moments of magic for the Lilydale community.
Quoting author of Play, Stuart Brown, who found “the more play you get, the more successful you are” Daniel
The Vintage Playroom invites visitors to let out their playful side. (Sean Paris Photography)
A Toast to Melba showcases a different version of the famous opera singer.
Where to pick up your FREE Star Mail
CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar3 Meadowgate Drive
CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket239-241 Maroondah Highway
CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket239-241 Maroondah Highway
CHIRNSIDE PARK Caltex Safeway239-241 Maroondah Highway
CHIRNSIDE PARK EG Fuelco Service StationChirnside Park Shopping Cr Little
Chipping Drive, 241 Maroondah Highway
CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway
CHIRNSIDE PARK Chirnside Park Country Club 68 Kingswood Drive
CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar158 Nangathan Way
CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar11 The Mall
KILSYTH Woolworths SupermarketChuringa SC, Russo Place
KILSYTH Woolworths SupermarketCanterbury Road Kilsyth
KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette Unit 7/87 Colchester Road
LILYDALE Aaron Violi MP Office 110 Main Street
LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC33-45 Hutchinson Street
LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC51-59 Anderson Street
LILYDALE Woolworths SupermarketMarketplace, 33 Hutchinson Street
LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale VillageCastella Street & Maroondah Highway
LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre7 Hardy Street
LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre1 Jarlo Drive
LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station473 Maroondah Highway
LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale346 Main Street
LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths31 Hutchinson Street
LILYDALE BP Service Station87 Warburton Highway
LILYDALE Shell Service Station469 Maroondah Highway
LILYDALE 7 - Eleven LilydaleCnr Maroondah Highway & Cave Hill Road
LILYDALE Coles Express469 Maroondah Highway
LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe251 Main Street
LILYDALE Round Bird Can't Fly170 Main Street
LILYDALE The Lilydale General110 Beresford Road
LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery96 Main Street
LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe178 Main Street
LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe222 Main Street
LILYDALE Gracious GraceCastella Street
LILYDALE Melba Coffee House33-45 Hutchinson Street
LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies7/75 Cave Hill Road
LILYDALE Point of View CafeLilydale Lakeside - Jarlo Drive
LILYDALE Freda's Cafe2 Clarke Street
LILYDALE Barry Plant Real Estate88 Main Street
LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate164 Main Street
LILYDALE Hello Harry245 Main Street
LILYDALE Noel Jones Real Estate 281 Main Street
LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate111-113 Main Street
LILYDALE Grubs Up1 Industrial Park Drive
LILYDALE Mc Donalds RestaurantMaroondah Highway
LILYDALE Olinda Creek HotelMaroondah Hwy
LILYDALE Crown Hotel Maroondah Hwy
LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street
MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road
MONTROSE IGA Supermarket Mt Dandenong Road
MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road
MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road
MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road
MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street
MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent
MOUNT EVELYN Red Robyn Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road
MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent
MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road
MOUNT EVELYN Bendigo Bank 2/35-39 Wray Cres
MONTROSE IGA Supermarket916 Mt Dandenong Road
MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket15 Brice Avenue
MOOROOLBARK Bendigo BankUnit 19/66 - 74 Brice Ave
MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar38 Bellara Dive
MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart108 Hayrick Lane
MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark103 Cardigan Road
MOOROOLBARK Coles Express2 Cambridge Road
MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real EstateBrice Avenue
MOOROOLBARK L J HookerBrice Avenue
MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road
MOOROOLBARK Mc Donalds RestaurantManchester Road
MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road
MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale138 York Road
WANDIN NORTH Wandin Newsagency Shop 2 /18 Union Road
Cord fashion
By Oliver Winn
Fashionistas will dress to impress in Wandin to raise funds for cord blood research at the Inner Wheel Club (IWC) Wandin’s Fashion Parade.
Taking place on Friday 2 May at the Wandin North Hall, the Wandin Inner Fashion Parade will run from 7pm to 10.30pm and will include supper along with great entertainment.
IWC Wandin secretary Anne Wettenhall said she hopes the event will be as well received as it has been in previous years.
“We had one all set to go in 2020 and we got shut down by Covid, so this is our first one since Covid hit.”
“Normally we would have around 200 ladies attend our shows, so we’re just hoping that it will be a success again,” Ms Wettenhall said.
The event will have a raffle with numerous prize baskets on offer, each basket having its own themed set of prizes.
The tickets are priced at $20, and it includes supper, cakes and sandwiches along with it, which Ms Wettenhall describes as a “pretty cheap night”.
A clothing store in Monbulk called Jenny’s Shoppe has sponsored the event since the fashion parade started back in 2001, contributing its
own prizes to the pool.
“Our first parade was with them [Jenny’s Shoppe] and it’s gone on ever since. And they’re happy that we’re back doing it again because it gets them out into the public”
Since 2001, the IWC Wandin has raised $100,000 for cord blood research - the stem cell rich blood left over from the placenta and umbilical cord after birth - while clubs all over Australia have raised a combined $3 million towards research into cord blood
Cord blood is normally thrown away after birth, but it’s very useful in providing therapy for a variety of blood and metabolic disorders and bone marrow transplants.
“Normally the cord blood and the placenta are a waste product and they’re just thrown away, but somebody in their wisdom has come up with this idea, and so now the blood is capable of being utilised,” Ms Wettenhall said.
This year, the IWC of Wandin hopes it can raise $5,000 this year for cord blood research.
“Compared to the $3 million raised across Australia, our little $5000 is a drop in the ocean, but it’s a very important drop.”
For ticket enquiries, email: iiw.au.wandin@ gmail.com
The Lilydale-based Yarra Ranges Model Railway Club is preparing to host its annual Easter train show at Diamond Creek. Known as the Easter Model Train Exhibition it is held at the Community Bank Stadium, Diamond Creek on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 April.
Over 25 operating model train layouts plus lots of retailers and manufacturers of model trains attend, putting on a huge display. It makes for a great excursion for families where the kids will have lots of fun looking at model trains and even having a go making their own Lego train.
For more information visit yvmrc.org.au/eastershow/
The Yarra Ranges Model Railway Club is located in the railway goods shed at Lilydale station.
L-R: Tiana Marcaralla, Maree Budweg and Terina Houlihan. Models from 2016’s fashion parade. (Kath Gannaway: 153566)
Be Lithium ion battery-safe
By Graham Crichton
We use lithium batteries in many devices in everyday life. Commonly, we use them in our phones, laptops, vacuum cleaners, lawn mowers, whipper snippers, chain saws, power drills, bicycles and scooters.
Unfortunately, many Lithium-ion batteries catch fire with frightening consequences. Both Fire Rescue Victoria and the Country Fire Authority attend many house fires each week caused by Lithium-ion batteries.
Purchasing a device
When buying an item such as above, always purchase a reputable known brand from a reputable dealer.
Always use the correct charger for the item. Never mix chargers.
If you decide to purchase a spare battery, or charger, always purchase the identical product. It is very risky to buy a cheap “look alike” item over the internet.
You could be buying trouble.
When and where to charge your devices
The rules are fairly simple.
Never charge a device when you are asleep or not in attendance.
It is ways best to charge on a non-flammable surface with non- flammable materials well away from the process. For example, don’t charge a phone near curtains or on the bed.
Set an alarm to sound when you judge that the device will be charged. Turn the charger off and remove the device.
CARTOON
For larger batteries such as bikes or scooters, do not charge these in the house or unit or on the verandah. When you are home, charge them away from buildings on a lead. As before, set an alarm to let you know that the charge time is completed. Turn off the charger and remove the battery.
Preferably, store the bike or scooter away from buildings and never near exit or entry doors to your house. In case of battery fire, your exit may be blocked.
Closely inspect your battery and charger for defects or damage such as it being surprisingly hot, warped, cracked or leaking.
These are danger signs.
Disposal of damaged batteries
This is a difficult problem as Lithium-ion batteries are generally not accepted at most battery disposal venues.
Neverdisposeofthesebatteriesinyourrubbish bin. Rubbish truck fires due to incorrect battery disposals are very common.
Yarra Ranges and Knox Council recommends reading about the b-cycle program.
The link is b-cycle.com.au/drop-off/
Both Councils have further information on their waste guide pages, which may be updated as required. yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Environment/ Waste/Hazardous-Waste-Disposalknox.vic.gov. au/WasteGuide
The Country Fire Authority (CFA) website also has excellent information about Lithium-ion batteries as does RACV who have recently posted excellent information on dealing with Lithium-ion batteries.
Uni-d to see this top movie
4.5/5
An outstanding feature debut for writer-director Alex Scharfman, Death of a Unicorn is a suspenseful, clever horror-comedy and one of the best-written films of the year so far.
On their way to a pharmaceutical CEO’s estate, Elliot (Paul Rudd) and his daughter Ridley (Jenna Ortega) hit a unicorn with their car.
The terminally-ill Odell Leopold (Richard E. Grant) decides to study the unicorn’s healing properties, but the unicorn’s fearsome parents come to reclaim their offspring.
Death of a Unicorn clops in the hoofprints of Alien, Jaws and Jurassic Park as a taut, unnerving (but very funny) horror film about corporate greed, scientific hubris and exploiting a dangerous, uncontrollable force.
Ortega and Rudd make a nuanced dysfunctional duo; Ridley starts the film as a defiant teen without being too angsty, and her purehearted efforts to appease the unicorns fall on deaf ears or mockery in the ever-worsening base-under-siege situation, while Elliot takes
part in the Leopolds’ heartless scheme to secure her future.
Death of a Unicorn features wonderfully witty dialogue, and Odell and especially his wife Belinda (Tea Leoni) twist hilarious Death of Stalin-like logical knots to frame their selfishness as noble or philanthropic.
The opulent manor and Canadian wilderness settings are stunning, and though the CGI for the unicorns isn’t the best, they still have a cool, formidable design and yield many moments of tense stealth and gory catharsis.
Like Gorgo in the trappings of Saltburn, Death of a Unicorn is a superbly-acted, brilliantly-written monster movie playing in most Victorian cinemas.
The final showdown in Marnie’s three-part sequence
Published in February 2025, All Shall Mourn is the much anticipated third and final instalment in Australian author Ellie Marney’s “None Shall Sleep Sequence”.
It is noteworthy that, after the success of its predecessors None Shall Sleep and Some Shall Break, the publisher (one of the Big Five) decided to drop this book, so that Marney had to publish it independently.
The decision makes sense, as the first two instalments in the sequence were promoted as psychological thrillers for older teenage readers.
In those two books, Marney deliberately and carefully directed our attention to the emotional and psychological impact of violent crimes, and not to detail and/or sensationalise any gory details.
However, for a series of books exploring the emotional and psychological transformations experienced by the victims, investigators and perpetrators of such crimes, there is ultimately
PASSION FOR PROSE
WITH CHRISTINE SUN
no way to avoid confronting the violence headon.
So, content warning: All Shall Mourn is definitely more suitable for “new adult” and even older readers.
The story begins with Simon and his twin sister Kirstin on the run, and we finally understand why this sociopath and serial killer is described as “chillingly manipulate, frighteningly
intelligent, and wholly insane”.
Indeed, as the twins’ past is revealed, we cannot help but care for Kirstin, who is as much a victim as her brother’s other preys.
Meanwhile, unsurprisingly – and much to the joy of Marney’s numerous fans out there –Emma and Travis finally get together as a couple.
Travis nearly died at the end of Some Shall Break and is now slowly recovering, but he simply cannot let Emma go alone to help the FBI hunt for Simon and Kirstin.
So the perfect team returns and, this time, Emma and Travis are able to compensate and complement each other in their thoughts and deeds.
Unfortunately, the FBI and their associated law enforcement departments are once again underestimating the enemy at hand, and this time they are paying the worst price for their mistake.
The story is all about relationship and re-
sponsibility, as well as individual agency and choice.
We see Travis taking more initiative, with Emma learning to take a step back and gain some perspective.
In sharp contrast to their mutual love and support, Simon’s ruthless domination over everyone else only leads to betrayal and self-destruction.
To conclude the trilogy, there is a sense of everything being wrapped up here, as we revisit some of the most impressive characters and settings in the series.
Although the scope of the plot in All Shall Mourn expands beyond the FBI’s jurisdiction and reaches as far as Morocco and Mexico, Marney’s meticulous research and her capacity to sustain tension and suspense remains the same throughout all three books.
This reviewer would recommend the “None Shall Sleep Sequence” to any mature reader desiring a captivating read.
Written by long time CFA firefighter, community safety presenter and Lithium-ion battery safety researcher, Graham Crichton. Always double check the information provided in this column as it may be updated at anytime.(FIle)
Death of a Unicorn Starring Jenna Ortega, Paul Rudd and Richard E. Grant MA15+
You
keep fighting fatigue,
Working 17 continuous hours causes impairment equivalent to .05 blood alcohol concentration level.
Working long, multiple days in a row by yourself can be part of the job but consider the cost to you and your family.
Check in with yourself and others around you.
Know the signs of fatigue, visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/farmfatigue
It’s never you, until it is.
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Attribute (6)
4 Castigate (8)
9 Rodeo ropes (7)
11 Lighthearted (7)
12 Connection (11)
13 Hearing organ (3)
14 Royal family member (8)
16 Doorkeeper (5)
19 Follower of a Jamaican religion related to reggae music (5)
20 Masters (8)
22 Obtain (3)
24 A phrase marked off by brackets (11)
26 Fears (7)
27 Sewer entrance (7)
29 Salad additive (8)
30 Writing desk (6)
1 Unwell (3)
2 Paintings of people (9)
3 Feudal lord (5)
5 Genetic mixture (6)
6 Measurements, – of sugar (9)
7 Idiotic (5)
8 Bold undertakings (11)
10 Meagre (6)
12 Describes a legally protected creative work (11)
15 Ultimate winners (9)
17 Astrological prediction (9)
18 Large bottle of wine (6)
21 Place of confinement (6)
23 Laconic (5)
25 Follower of the main Indian religion (5)
28 Australian bird (3)
Using the nine letters
Easter in secular society
By Maria Millers
For many Christians, this is Holy week culminating with Easter next Sunday.
It is a week of fasting and devotion as they follow the Christ story to Crucifixion and finally the Resurrection.
It’s the most important event on the Christian calendar, celebrated as a victory over death, a promise of new life.
However, in an increasingly secular society like ours, its religious significance has become lost.
But that is not to say we can’t imbue Easter with meaning beyond the Christian story.
After all its roots go long way back before Christianity to when people honoured the spring awakening of the world after a long winter with an emphasis on rebirth, fertility and life starting over again.
The word Easter is linked to Eostre, an ancient goddess of spring and dawn (according to some historians).
And this fits in with the northern hemisphere’s spring, a season of new life.
Today Easter can be celebrated as a secular festival that’s good for overall wellbeing and one that extends beyond religious boundaries.
In a multicultural society we accept and embrace the diverse ways in which people celebrate Easter and indeed other religious observances such as Ramadan and Passover.
And this can foster unity and respect.
By embracing secular Easter traditions and cultural practices, non-Christians too can enjoy the festivities of this holiday season in their own unique way.
For most, Easter is now primarily a break from work, a chance to grab a last get away before the weather turns cold or a chance to catch up with jobs around house and garden.
And an opportunity to connect with friends and loved ones.
In Australia Easter, of course, comes in autumn, in those dying days of summer warmth that
WOORILLA WORDS
might feel more like a second dry season or a time of slower energy, not of dramatic leaf fall as in a northern hemisphere autumn.
Because Australian trees are mostly not deciduous there are only pockets across the country where exotic plantings put on a spectacular show of autumn foliage.
Nor does the season carry messages of new beginnings and renewal.
AD Hope in April in Australia contrasts the seasonal disconnect between Easter imagery and our southern hemisphere experience.
No resurrection here of budding green,
No lambs or daffodils. Instead we’ve seen
The dry leaves gathering under greying skies,
The wind’s sharp whisper as the daylight dies.
But we can still celebrate the transition of seasons and its bounty.
Those who have grown fruit or vegetables will understand what a friend called ‘the tyranny of the harvest’.
When all of a sudden you have picked or been gifted with all those autumn ripened fruit and vegetables like apples, grapes, pears, persimmons quinces, chestnuts, figs.
And whereas in the past you may have had the time and skills to turn this bounty into preserves, jams and pickles today it may indeed seem like added pressure in an already busy life.
At least enjoy the voluptuous beauty of autumn fruit: as a still life installation in your fruit bowl.
After Apple-Picking by Robert Frost
My long two-pointed ladder’s sticking through a tree
Toward heaven still,
And there’s a barrel that I didn’t fill
Beside it, and there may be two or three
Apples I didn’t pick upon some bough.
But I am done with apple-picking now.
The colours of our Easter are not the pastel spring colours of the northern hemisphere but are rich, warm and earthy tones.
It’s a good time to go for a nature walk, noticing flowers, birds, or the shift in the season, collecting leaves, seed pods or just noticing changes: by honouring the natural cycle you’re living in as it helps you feel more connected and settled.
As Mary Oliver reminds in her poem Sometimes:(from her book Red Bird) Instructions for living a life: Pay attention.
Be astonished.
Tell about it.
In short: Even without religious elements, Easter in autumn can be a beautiful, uplifting time to reconnect with yourself, your people, and the world around you — a “soft reset” for the year.
For some there is still the ritual of breaking the fast with a traditional Paschal feast.
The Paschal Lamb is especially traditional in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures and refers to a symbolic or sacrificial lamb associated with Passover (Hebrew: Pesach) and, by extension, Christian Easter traditions.
Some like the Eastern Orthodox traditions make special sweet breads: the Greek Tsoureki and the Russian high domed Kulich.
A traditional Australian Easter feast can vary depending on culture and family traditions, but there are a few common themes - for many Easter food has been reduced to barbeques, hot cross buns, chocolate eggs, bunnies and the occasional bilby.
But giving eggs can still be a positive bonding experience as this writer notes: Crack them open — what you find Is more than chocolate, sweet or kind: It’s laughter shared and memories made, A promise that dark nights will fade.
So too the experience of painting and decorating real eggs.
Part of the Easter experience for Christians and indeed in other religions during their festivals have been acts of kindness towards those in need or distress.
Not only confined to Christians, Muslims during Ramadan are expected to perform acts of kindness towards those in need.
Easter can be a time for celebration and reflection, transcending religious boundaries.
By acknowledging and appreciating the various ways in which people celebrate Easter, we can promote inclusivity, understanding, and appreciation for the religious, cultural and secular aspects of this holiday.
And we can all celebrate the season with its gifts and reminders that change is inevitable It is hard to talk about Easter and autumn and not quote from probably the most famous poem about the bounty and beauty of this season and the gifts that nature gifts us.
From ‘To Autumn’ by John Keats Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun; Conspiring with him how to load and bless With fruit the vines that round the thatch-eves run;
To bend with apples the moss’d cottage-trees, And fill all fruit with ripeness to the core; To swell the gourd, and plump the hazel shells With a sweet kernel; to set budding more, And still more, later flowers for the bees, Until they think warm days will never cease, For summer has o’er-brimm’d their clammy cells.
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
GORGEOUS RESIDENCE ON LARGE BLOCK
GORGEOUS RESIDENCE, PLENTY OF SPACE
GROWING families with great taste will be enamoured with this impressive family home.
Stylish, spacious, and smartly capitalising on its 1,326sqm (approx.) landscape, you will feel at home with just one step in the door.
Framed by outdoor entertaining spaces, the upper level is bursting with appeal. The open plan dining area and gourmet kitchen with textural tile flooring, striking benchtops, soft close draws, island seating, dark cabinetry, and high-calibre appliances including dual 600mm wall ovens, Fisher & Paykel double draw dishwasher and a 900mm induction cooktop serves as the heart of this spectacular home. The light-filled and expansive living area with terrazzo-style tile flooring, and study nook resides on the lower level to enjoy its own equally impressive outdoor space.
Magnificent bedrooms and bathrooms are also on offer. The parents’ retreat main bedroom boasts a sitting area, walk-in robe, and luxurious ensuite. The family bedrooms share a spa-like bathroom with soaking tub and rainfall shower.
With further features including a generous laundry with butcherblock benchtops, drying cupboard and bonus guest WC, a double garage with in-house and deck/rear access, a sealed driveway with plenty of space to park a caravan or boat, and established veggie beds, this property promises to impress inside and out. Situated within easy reach of Tecoma and Belgrave townships and train stations, a wonderful lifestyle awaits. Join us for a tour today.
• Over quarter-acre (approx.) property with sealed drive and double garage
Magnificent kitchen with island seating and impressive appliances
Generous lounge with tile flooring and study nook
• Idyllic parents’ retreat with sitting area, walkin robe, and luxe ensuite
• Several spectacular outdoor entertaining areas.
PICTURESQUE YARRA VALLEY VIEWS
ADMIRE and enjoy this colourful and ever changing vista with fantastic Yarra Valley views and a comfortable family home in a popular and sought after area, this could be just what you are looking for.
The home is well presented and very well looked after, a much loved family home for over 30 years.
Offering 3 bedrooms all with built in robes including an ensuite in the main bedroom, spacious open living/lounge areas give the growing family plenty of space. The kitchen has ample bench and cupboard space plus a separate meals area. Venture outside and enjoy the open air entertaining, sit back relax and enjoy the views and the colourful scenery, the kids and pets will love the wide open space with approx. 1680 sqm to explore, enjoy and run wild.
A fantastic property offering the growing family a convenient and comfortable lifestyle and ideally positioned just a short stroll to the walking trail, local schools, shops and transport.
HOME ESSENTIALS
Address: 37 Alpine Boulevard, LAUNCHING PLACE Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 garage Price: $750,000 - $820,000 Inspect: By Appointment
Contact: David Carroll 0419 539 320, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION. 5967 1277
9WYNNLEAPLACE,LILYDALE
4 Bed, 2 Bath, 2 Car
$1,250,000-$1,300,000 FAMILYFRIENDLYINWONDERFULWYNNLEA
NestledintheprestigiousWynnleaEstateinLilydale,thisbrandnew4bedroom,2bathroomfamily homeoffersmodernlivinginaserenesetting.Thoughtfullydesignedwithcomfortandfunctionalityin mind,thehomeboastsspaciousinteriorscomplementedbyhighqualityfinishes. Attheheartofthehomeisanopenplanlivingareathatseamlesslyconnectstotheoutdoors,with largeslidingdoorsframingthealfrescoareaandgenerousgardenwithhillsideviews.Thestylish kitchen,withstonebenches,Westinghouseappliancesandmodernfixtures,ensuresablendof eleganceandpracticality.Aseparatemediaroomprovidesaversatilespace-perfectformovie nights,aquietretreatforparentsoraplayspaceforchildren. ClosetoLilydale’sshops,schoolsandtransport,thepropertybalancessuburbancharmandmodern amenities,providingamixofmodernconvenienceandpeacefulliving.Thisismorethanjustahouse -it’saplaceforyourfamilytocallhome.
RichardGoldsmith0407348172 BenHudson0424288954
LJHooker–Mooroolbark 97267711
NEAT, SWEET AND YOURS TO COMPLETE
OFFERED for sale for the first time in over 50 years, this charming hills cottage is looking for its next owner to love and cherish.
This home is perfect for first home buyers looking to start their journey and secure their hills address. Positioned on a sunny 1,569m2 allotment, the home offers a blank canvas ready for you to make your own.
Stepping inside, relax and unwind in the cozy living room complete with a gas log fire for cooler evenings and a split system for year-round comfort. The adjoining sun room is flooded with natural light and is the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee.
Separately zoned, the kitchen and meals area features a spacious kitchen boasting a free standing electric oven and cooktop and an abundance of storage.
There are four bedrooms, two with built in robes, they are all serviced by the oversized family bathroom.
The good-sized laundry with internal access to the garage completes the home. Outside, the property offers fantastic sundry shedding for all your storage needs along with secure off-street parking. The balance of the block offers low maintenance gardens and great flat lawn areas for the kids to run and play.
Located within easy reach of the Cockatoo township; cafes, supermarket, public transport, sporting facilities and parkland are all just a stones throw away! Properties like this one don’t stay around for long, inspection is a must.
HOME FOCUS
CHARMING COUNTRY LIVING WITH STYLE
WELCOME to a one-of-a-kind Gembrook gem, where character meets convenience and the iconic Puffing Billy steams past your front fence like a scene from a postcard. Set on an expansive 1900sqm (approx.) fully fenced block with rare dual access via Station Road and Main Street, this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort, flexibility and semi-rural serenity — all within walking distance to town.
Step inside via the undercover entryway and you’re greeted by polished timber floors, soaring 10ft ceilings and a warm open-plan lounge, dining and kitchen area bathed in natural light. Year-round comfort is guaranteed with gas ducted heating throughout and a split system, keeping things cool in summer and toasty in winter. The heart of the home is the well-appointed kitchen, featuring an island bench, gas stove, dishwasher, large pantry and ample storage — all framed by a window overlooking the rear entertaining deck, making cooking a joy and entertaining effortless.
The carpeted master bedroom is privately positioned at the front of the home, complete with walk-through robe and ensuite. Down the hallway, three additional bedrooms (two with built-in robes), a central family bathroom, a functional study nook and a separate laundry with a third toilet ensure plenty of space for the whole family. A second lounge — or potential fifth bedroom — with a gorgeous bay window and toasty woodfire adds even more versatility.
Outside, the space continues to impress. Whether you’re a hobbyist, a tradie, or simply need storage for all the toys, you’ll love the array of sheds including a 3-bay open-style shed, a second 3-bay shed with concrete floor, power and plumbing, a barn-style shed, and a double carport — all easily accessed via dual driveways.
With a scenic walking track to town at your doorstep and Gembrook’s charming main strip just a short stroll away, this is a property where lifestyle and location align — all wrapped in a uniquely nostalgic package.
This property has it all so don’t miss outCALL TO ARRANGE A PRIVATE INSPECTION TODAY! Call Aaron Day 0407 365 994 or Bethany Sullivan 0438 844 968. Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office.
3StationRoadGembrook $870,000 -$930,000
CharmingCountryLivingwithSpace,Style &a TouchofNostalgia. Welcometoa Gembrooktreasure,wheretimelesscharmmeetsmoderncomfortandPuffingBilly rollsbylikea livingpostcard.Nestledona generous1900sqm(approx.)blockwithdualaccessfrom StationRoadandMainStreet,this4-bedroom,2-bathroomhomeis ahavenofspace,warmth,and semi-ruralserenity.Inside,polishedfloors,10ftceilings,and asunlitopen-planlivingareainviteyou in,whilethewell-equippedkitchenandreardeckmakeentertaininga breeze.Withgasducted heating, asplitsystem,and awoodfire,comfortisyear-round.A secondloungeoffersversatility, andampleshedsplusdualdrivewayscatertoeveryneed.Justa strolltotown,thisischaracter-filled countrylivingatitsfinest.
BethanySullivan M 0438844968 AaronDay M 0407365994
BeautifullyRenovated5 BedroomFamilyHome +BungalowonanAcre! Situatedonjustover 1acreofflatland,thisstunninghomewithwraparoundverandahhasallthe creaturecomforts.Featuring along,centralhallway &9ftceilingsthroughout.Fromthespacious laundry,tothelargeopenloungewithanelectricfireplace.Meanderingdownthehallyouwillfind 5stylishbedrooms,theMasterwithFrenchdoorsopeningontotherearverandah, alargewalkthroughrobe& ensuite.Thefamilybathroomisgenerousinsize,& offers abath, &shower.Addto this aseparatediningroomwithFrenchdoorstotheverandah.Thekitcheniswell-appointedwitha hugeislandbenchwithstonetop,newfreestanding900mmgas/electricstove,D/W,& WIP. Outside,hasa 2BRbungalowwithlounge& kitchenette,thepropertyisfullyfenced.Addtothisa workshopwithconcretefloor &power. 11-13FirstAvenueCockatoo$1,050,000
PeacefulLivingintheHeartofCockatoo.
Setona spacious1,014sqm(approx.)in aquietlocation,this3-bedroomhomeoffers acomfortable lifestylewithplentyofroomtorelax& enjoytheoutdoors.Theundercoverfrontverandahleads to aspaciousentertainingdeck,theidealspottounwindwithyourmorningcoffeeorhostcasual gatheringswithfriends& family.Stepinsidetoa welcomingloungefeaturingtimberfloors,a woodfireheater,s/s &GDH.Theopen-plankitchen/diningareawithslateflooring,integratedoven, dishwasher,fridgerecess.ThemasterbedroomincludesBIR,while 2additionalbedrooms,1 also withBIR,sharea centralbathroom,separatetoilet.Thefullyfencedbackyardisidealforfamilies& petlovers,with aseparatedogrun& gardenshed.Theundercoverentertainingareaattherear provides aprivatespacetounwindorhostfriends &thesinglecarportwithrollerdoor.
KarenPeele M 0419430950
aSereneLocation,NOBILLS! Seton2 acresnearGembrook,Loftalongis acharmingA-frameWesternRedCedarhomeoffering sustainablelivingwithstyle.Solarpanels,batteries,andsmartphonemonitoringensurereliable,ecofriendlypower.Inside,enjoyopen-planlivingwithBlueGumtimberfloors,colonialwindows,woodfire heating,anda splitsystem.Thekitchenboaststimberbenchtops,gasstovetop,oven,and awalk-in pantry.Dineindoorsoralfrescoontheverandahorsunnypatio.Upstairshoststhreespacious bedrooms, apowderroom,and aseparateshower.Thepropertyfeatureslushgardens,veggie patches,chickencoop,animalpaddock,andshedsforeverypurpose.A doublecarport,four-car garage,andextrastoragecompletetheoffering.A blendofcomfort,charm,andsustainabilityina trulyidyllicsetting.
HOME FOCUS
A PERFECT STARTER IN A PERFECT LOCATION
BEAUTIFULLY updated throughout and with the perfect floorplan for a growing family, this home offers spacious living, plenty of natural light and an ideal location.
Within an easy stroll to the popular Belgrave Lake Park and just a short walk to a nearby bus stop which gives great access to local schools, this location is well known to be very family friendly.
The versatile layout boasts two bedrooms, the main room with ensuite, plus, the floorplan could be tweaked to create a third bedroom with ease if needed. Currently used as a fantastic home office, the extra living space has been well utilized but can adapt for all needs.
Designed for functionality and space, the kitchen will be sadly missed by the current owners but it will be someone else’s luck when they discover the large amount of bench space, fantastic 900mm upright stove & great storage that this kitchen provides!
Multiple split systems, a gas Rinnai heater and a cosy wood fire all work well together for consistent temperature control, or, on these beautiful Autumn days, open up the rear sliding door that leads to the timber decking and enjoy the afternoon breeze that filters through.
Outside, the property is well kept and has been tiered with rock walls to make the most of the useable space. Under house storage, lovely sitting areas and a driveway that has parking for 2 cars can all be found and are just added extras to this perfect starter property
NATURE LOVERS PARADISE WITH PRIVACY
HEAD back to nature with this fantastic property, enjoy the fresh open air and the picturesque and tranquil setting.
The home is beautifully presented, fresh, modern and up to date, offering 2 spacious bedrooms, the large open living areas are the ideal spot to sit back and admire the colorful bush backdrop.
The kitchen is fresh, modern and offers plenty of space with quality appliances and fixtures, entertain all year round with covered verandah’s and decking around the home, alfresco style servery off the kitchen area is the ideal spot for outdoor morning breakfast or unwind for evening drinks.
Enjoy the outdoors with over 2400sqm of land to explore and enjoy with a mixture of scattered to dense bush with ample cleared areas for the whole family to enjoy, plus extra alternative accommodation for weekend guests or the extended family.
This property boasts fantastic off grid, self sustainable living with a quality solar system and large capacity battery bank. ( No mains power available )
A great property offering a peaceful and relaxed lifestyle in glorious surroundings.
Thishomeisbeautifullypresented,fresh,modernanduptodate,offering 2spaciousbedrooms,with thelargeopenlivingareasaretheidealspottositbackandadmirethecolourfulbushbackdrop. Thekitchenisfresh,modernandoffersplentyofspacewithqualityappliancesandfixtures.Entertain allyearroundwithcoveredverandah’sanddeckingaroundthehome,alfrescostyleserveryoff thekitchenareaistheidealspotforoutdoormorningbreakfast.Enjoytheoutdoorswithover 2400sqmoflandtoexploreandenjoywitha mixtureofscatteredtodensebushwithamplecleared areasforthewholefamilytoenjoy,plusextraalternativeaccommodationforweekendguestsor theextendedfamily.Thispropertyboastsfantasticoffgrid,selfsustainablelivingwitha qualitysolar systemandlargecapacitybatterybank.A greatpropertyoffering apeacefullifestyle.
DavidCarroll M 0419539320
GreatValuewithPlentyofSpaceandConvenience Lightandbrightwithloadsofspacetoenjoy,thisgreatfamilyhomeoffersplentyofpotentialto improveon.Theoriginalfamilyhomeoffers 3bedroomswitha largefamilysizeliving/loungearea boastingdistantmountainviews.Thekitchenisspaciousplus aseparatemealsarea.Enjoythe outdoorsandofferingendlesspotentialsittingonwellover1/2anacre( approx.2480sqm)and bathedinnaturalsunlightwithestablishedgardens,carport,gardenshedandloadsofspacetoadd yourpersonaltouchesallround. Afantasticlocationattheendof aquietcourtandboastinggreat viewsandjust ashortwalktopublictransport,shopsandtheWarburtontrail. Agreatfamilyproperty lovedandlookedafterforover45years,it’stheidealplacetocallhome.
DavidCarroll
M 0419539320
TwinGums –ParadiseonEarth
Spanningover3200sqmoflush,naturalbeauty,thishomeoffersanunparalleledsenseofserenity. Themodernkitchenisequippedwithlargewindowsthatinvitenaturallightwhileoffering breathtakingviewsofthesurroundinglandscape.Themasterretreatis atruehaven,boasting oversizedwindowsthatframetranquilviews.Theensuiteandbuiltinrobescompletethisluxurious space.Threefurtherbeautifullyappointedbedrooms, alargefamilybathroomandlaundrycontinue thehome’sthemeofelegance.Outside,anexpansivegarden,witha large,charmingpond,big enoughtocanoe,orsitandsoakinthebeautyofthefloatingwaterlilies.Thelargegaragewith power,concretefloor,andampleparkingoptionsprovideseverythingyouneedfora functionaland organizedspace.Thisisa rareopportunitytoexperiencea lifestylelikenoother.
IsthistheBestValueHomeontheMarket?
Perfectfor aweekendgetawayora peacefulfull-timeretreat,thischarminghomeoffers2 bedroomsand 1and1/2bathroomswithanadditionalbedroomdownstairs,offering aversatile spaceidealfora teenager’sroomorofficespace.Theopenplanlivingandkitchenareahasa lovelywoodfirewhichiscosy.Thefloorplanisopenandflowsontoa largedeck,providingthe perfectspottorelaxandunwind.Wanderthroughyourprivaterainforestsettinganddiscoveryour ownpieceofnature,withtheYarraRiverjustbeyondyourboundary.Theabundantbirdlifeand tranquilatmospherewillhelpyoufeelateaseinyourquietsanctuary.Thispropertyofferspotential forthosewhowanttoaddtheirpersonaltouchandmakeittheirown.Thisisanopportunitynottobe missedwithallthisonofferjusta shortdrivefromtheRedwoodForestandtownshipofWarburton.
Loss despite more hoops
By John Thomson
On Monday 7 April, Lilydale’s division 1 team of Craig McCracken and Murray Howlett made the journey to the Monash Croquet Club.
The first game as always is the doubles and the Lilydale team jumped out to a handy early lead and were able to hold on to this lead winning 7 hoops to Monash 4 hoops.
Murray Howlett played in the first singles game. This time the Monash player was able to get away to a good start, Murray then started to settle into the game and after twelve hoops had been played the score was six hoops each, with the 13th hoop to decide the winner, both players set up reasonably well and both players missed hoops that they should have run, but in the end it was the Monash player that ran the hoop to win 7 hoops to Lilydale 6 hoops.
Craig McCracken played in the next game. This game was close early but a couple of missed hoops by Craig let in his opponent and Monash went on to win 7 hoops to Lilydale 5 hoops.
At lunch the scores were Monash 2 games 18 hoops to Lilydale 1 game 18 hoops, with two singles games to play.
Craig McCracken played next. Unfortunately for Craig, in this game, he struggled to run hoops when he had the opportunity and the Monash player won 7 hoops to Lilydale 3 hoops.
Murray Howlett played in the last singles game. The Monash player won the first hoop but from then on Murray controlled the game and went onto have a comfortable win 7 hoops to Monash 1 hoop.
The final scores were Monash 3 games 26 hoops to Lilydale 2 games 28 hoops. It is not often that the losing side actually wins more hoops than the winning side. After this loss Lilydale have dropped to fourth on the ladder, with four weeks to go in the season they will probably have to win all of their matches to get back to the top again.
After Division 2 had their bye last Monday, they are still sitting on top of the ladder with all of the other teams still to have their byes, so the equation is simple: keep winning and you will stay on top.
This week, the Lilydale handicap team travelled to Ringwood. This week’s team was Murray Howlett, Kerri McCracken, Murray McLean and Mark Edgell.
Murray McLean played in the first singles game, the Ringwood player was playing with a one hoop disadvantage. Both players started off well but as the game progressed the Ringwood player had made up his disadvantage and then set about building a lead to win 7 hoops to Lilydale 5 hoops.
Kerri McCracken and Mark Edgell played in the first doubles game, Lilydale were starting with a one hoop disadvantage. The Ringwood pair got off to a good start and from then on Lilydale were on the back foot and could not make up any ground. Ringwood 7 hoops to Lilydale 2 hoops.
Kerri McCracken played in the next singles, Kerri was starting with a one hoop disadvantage. This game was almost a carbon copy of the previous doubles game where Ringwood was able to control the game and Lilydale not able to make up any ground. Ringwood 7 hoops to Lilydale 2 hoops.
Murray McLean and Mark Edgell teamed up in the next doubles game, the handicaps were even between both teams so neither side had any advantage. This time Lilydale were able to get off to a reasonable start and although the game was close Lilydale was able to get a small break and go onto win 7 hoops to Ringwood 5 hoops.
At the break the scores were Ringwood 3 games 26 hoops to Lilydale 1 game 16 hoops. With two games to play if Lilydale were going to win, they would need to win both games by a good margin.
Kerri McCracken played in the last singles game and Ringwood were starting with a one hoop advantage. Head to head, the game was very close but Ringwood had their one hoop advantage and in the end that was the difference in the game. Ringwood 7 hoops to Lilydale 6 hoops.
The last game was a doubles, Murray Howlett and Murray McLean teamed up for this game and Lilydale were starting with a one hoop disadvantage while Ringwood had a one hoop advantage. Lilydale were able to make up their one hoop disadvantage fairly early with the rest of the game being close except that Lilydale just could not get on even terms with Ringwood and the one hoop
advantage that they had was again the difference in the end. Ringwood 7 hoops to Lilydale 6 hoops. The final scores Ringwood 5 games 40 hoops to
Lilydale 1 game 28 hoops. This loss has dropped Lilydale to third on the ladder with one week to play before the four top teams play off in a round
robin to decide the winner for the season, so Lilydale need to get back onto the winners list next week.
Murray Howlett jumping a ball through the hoop. (Supplied)
Social croquet saw Leala Perkal, Michelle Loughhead, Mick Crawley, Pat West, Graham Rhodes and Liz Stewart head out onto the green. (Stewart Chambers: 471481)
Mark Edgell lining up to clear an opponent’s ball.New
member Michelle Loughhead shakes hands with Liz Stewart after the game. (Stewart Chambers: 471481)
Barkers share the spoils
By Peter Stephenson
A sweltering Saturday afternoon at Jack Thomas Reserve saw Barkers (fourth) visit old rivals Berwick (second) with only goal difference separating the sides, after 3 rounds in Men’s State 2SE. Barkers made three changes to the side which lost 0-2 at Knox City, with Anthony Di Crea, Sean Perrin and Harry Rushton making way for Ben Cooper, Chris Potter and Christian Sapardanis.
The game was slow to find a rhythm in the heat, then on six minutes, Barkers committed a foul in their penalty area – penalty to Berwick.
Keeper Vladi Velikin dived left, but Rohan Gani’s kick went beyond him, going in off the post to give Berwick an early lead.
Berwick then penned Barkers in their own half as the visitors gave the ball away too readily.
On 12 minutes Berwick had a half chance when Gani shot straight at Velikin.
Barkers finally threatened on 21 minutes when Tristan Walker fed James Barber on the right, but his cross to the far post was cleared.
This was a rare Barkers threat, and the hosts almost doubled their lead five minutes later when a throw-in from the right was pumped towards goal, causing Velikin to acrobatically punch the ball over.
Six minutes before the break, Berwick’s Lucas Silva got to the right byline and crossed to Joshua Scarlett, whose first-time shot blazed over.
Now, completely against the run of play, Barkers made Berwick pay for their wayward shooting.
Christian Porcaro was released on the left wing, and he crossed beautifully for Walker to turn the ball into the net for the equaliser.
Half-time 1-1, with Berwick having much more of the territory, but Barkers capitalising on their only chance.
Two minutes into the second half, Berwick’s Emre Ozyurek found Luca Maio on the right. He cut inside, but Cooper tackled well to snuff out the danger.
Now, as the weather cooled a little, Barkers sped the game up and started to run the legs off Berwick.
First it was Ryan Smith who played the ball out to Marcus Watson on the right.
He played a one-two with Walker but overhit his cross.
Then on 55 minutes, Barkers won a freekick 25 yards out, but Cooper’s angled kick only warmed the hands of keeper Colby Jones.
Barkers were now passing the ball around nicely and on the hour, Smith intercepted in midfield and almost put Watson through on the right.
Then Potter weaved his magic wand to play a superb ball to Watson.
He was forced out wide on the left but still got his shot on goal, with Jones scrambling to fist away. On 64 minutes, a Ross Clark free-kick on the right was played to the far post, where Potter headed back across goal before the ball was cleared.
Then Clark released Walker, but the angle for the shot was too tight to trouble Jones.
Barkers were now defending well when they had to, but most of the time were pressuring a tired Berwick defence.
Di Crea had a goalbound shot blocked, and a quick turn and shot from Watson saw the ball deflected wide.
The best chance for a winner though, came from a beautiful free-kick floated in by Barber.
Smith stole behind the defence and headed just over.
There was just time for Berwick’s Christian Lettieri to test Velikin at the other end before fulltime arrived – final score 1-1.
Barkers were fortunate to go in level at halftime, but really should have taken the points in
a strong second half against an opponent on the ropes.
Still, a point at Berwick is never to be sniffed at, and Barkers may well pose a more credible threat when the squad is fully fit.
The reserves won 3-2 in an entertaining game, despite the heat, with the goals coming from Mario Rivera, Michael Pezzano and Nathaniel Turner.
Next week, the men have the week off, while the women continue their Nike FC Cup quest with a fourth round tie at home to Victorian Premier League side Avondale, who will likely feature an ex-Barker (Monique Nogueira) and an ex-Matilda (Elise Kellond-Knight). Kick-off is 7.30pm on Thursday night at Esther Park. See you down the Kennel!
Tough away trip for Lilydale Eagles in sweltering conditions
By Callum Ludwig
The Lilydale Eagles sides faced one of the longest road trips of the season as they made the journey to Cranbourne to face Gideon’s Warriors.
Unavailability plagued both sides this week and the prospect of limited substitutions in the sweltering conditions was a concern.
The Reserves looked to continue on their fine form after a strong win in the opening round but started off the game on the back foot as their opponent looked to attack down the flanks.
Fullback Amin Fazl was a very early victim of this direct approach, garnering a fifth-minute yellow card from the referee after taking out a tricky Gideon’s winger who tried to pass him.
From there, the Eagles started to settle into the game and got on top in midfield, with attacking midfielders Mark Vanderkolk and Marcus Salvitti dropping in wide to support fullbacks Fazl and Caleb Knox and then try to break through wingers Trent Scott-Elsley and Tarin Cooper.
Despite having the ascendancy, it wasn’t until the 23rd minute when poor defending from the Warriors allowed Salvitti to fire off a quick snapshot which he buried into the bottom left corner.
The lead wouldn’t last long, however and the Eagles’ poor communication at the back would come back to bite them as a defensive mix-up only three minutes later saw a long ball beat the defence and allow for an easy pass across goal to the Gideon’s left winger whose loopy finish found the back of the net.
Only five minutes later, another goal was scored with the Eagles’ Fazl burying an unstoppable shot, his curling finish evading the goalkeeper and flying into the net. Unfortunately for Amin, it was his own net, and the Eagles found themselves 2-1 down.
Fortune was to favour the Lilydale side however, the rough terrain of the pitch caused the ball to bobble past the Gideon’s keeper from a passback, with Eagles’ striker Byron Loveless pouncing to level the scores on the stroke of halftime.
The last piece of action for the half came when Lilydale’s Cooper cleared the ball as a Gideon’s player took two touches and tried to take advan-
tage after a foul, with the ref baffling handing him a yellow card for booting the ball away despite not properly stopping play.
After some halftime hydration, the Eagles found themselves on the back foot again, getting a reminder of why usual keeper Callum Ludwig dons the gloves and playing coach Daniel ‘Dicko’ Dickson doesn’t.
A foul by Ludwig, playing outfield so Dicko could save his legs for the firsts’ game, in the 47th minute on the edge of the box saw the Gideon’s midfielder whip a curling effort into the top left which Dicko could only watch fly past and left the Eagles with more work to do.
In the 59th minute, the Eagles had a chance on the edge of the box with striker Loveless on the ball and Salvitti open to his left. Despite Ludwig’s desperate shouts for the big fella to play in the little Italian, Loveless took on a shot from range which bounced just before the keeper, going underneath him and into the back of the net, 3-3. Gideon’s Warriors, obviously none too pleased with the display, ordered a quick change of keeper.
The heat started to play its part in the game, but the Eagles thought they could have scored a winner late when Vanderkolk unleashed a shot that cannoned into the right-hand post. Unfortunately, that was all she wrote for the Reserves and they had to settle for a draw.
The Firsts were up next, looking to bounce back from a 1-0 defeat to start their season.
Unfortunately, any hopes of a positive start were quickly shot down as the Eagles’ defence were exploited by the pace and directness of the Warriors’ wingers.
A corner in the third minute was whipped to the back post and scored as Eagles’ fullback Theo Georgiou could only watch the shot go past him and into the back of the net.
In the 16th minute, the Eagles were beaten for pace and a ball across the box was converted again by the Warriors, and it was a similar story only six minutes later that Gideon’s broke through again, this time with the winger beating Ludwig, back in his usual position at his near post as he sought to cover wide-open options in the middle.
The Eagles had to recoup and did so in the 26th minute when the Gideon’s keeper spilled a cross from the right wing into the path of Christian ‘Flik’ Lindner-Mark who lived up to his name and flicked the ball into the back of the net to give Lilydale some hope.
The Eagles were being afforded all the time in the world to play out from the back, with the Warriors conserving energy by not pressing high and the Eagles started to play their way back into the game, though without creating anything much of note.
By the second half, both teams were looking to maintain control of the game and save themselves from exhausting sprints to chase long balls in the oppressive heat.
Gideon’s threat down the wings that gave them such a substantial lead had subsided but the Eagles continued to struggle to make a breakthrough that would make things interesting.
The two most exciting parts of the half, un-
fortunately, both came at the wrong end for the Eagles.
Gideon’s Warriors had a fourth when their midfielder had his first shot from just inside the box blocked, followed by a second poked effort which was parried away from close-range by Ludwig but into the path of a Gideon’s player close by who tapped home.
The Lilydale players protested for offside to Byron Loveless, who was standing in as the linesman, but Loveless by name and loveless by nature, no flag was forthcoming.
The other standout moment of the second half came from a Gideon’s Warriors shot from the top of the box which forced Ludwig into a diving save to his right to keep from extending the scoreline further. With no more goals for the rest of the game, the match finished 4-1 in a tough loss for Lilydale. Both sides will be back at home to play Maroondah United after the Easter break.
Barkers tried their best but drew against Berwick. (File)
Jasper Blair breaks away with the ball for the Firsts. (Samantha Moller)
Wandin wins tight contest
Wandin vs Woori never seems to disappoint and with the wonderful weather over the weekend, both sides enjoyed a fine match in fine conditions at the Wandin North Recreation Reserve.
Bustling crowds from both clubs turned up to watch what would become an enthralling battle between two prominent Yarra Ranges sides.
Woori Yallocks intent to defend was visible from the start.
The Tigers were able to limit a powerful and fluid Wandin attack, which lead to Woori taking a 15 point lead in the second quarter.
Woori’s lead was courtesy to a great attacking display between Taylor Gibson and Zach Monkhorst, and with the Tigers thin on numbers, they kept made the best of what they had for the game.
Into the third quarter, Wandin’s Jordan Jaworski and Hodget responded to Woori with a steady performance, and with blue jerseys swarming the midfield, Wandin inserted themselves into the game.
Excellent displays from Woori’s Angus Smith, Hunter Ryan, Bradd Arnold and Joel Adams from kept the Tigers’ scoreline close to Wandin’s in what came to be a goal for goal match, with both sides taking the lead at crucial moments.
Daniel Willis, Tom Merlino, Damien Furey, Aaron Mullett, Charlie Wood and Patty Bruzzese were the key players for Wandin, giving the Dogs the edge they needed to beat the passionate Woori side.
Wandin clinched the win in the end with the final scoreline at 109 to 95.
Woori Yallock’s reserves were also stretched thin with injuries putting them at a disadvantage which saw them cop a beating from a healthy Wandin side.
Woori Yallock’s women’s side visited Olinda to face a formidable opponent, with Olinda taking the win.
In the netball, Woori Yallock’s D grade team clinched the win against Wandin, beating them 29 to 18.
But for the rest of the teams it was a tough day, with all other grades losing their second round, despite putting up competitive scores.
Woori’s C side had their scores doubled by Wandin, 54 to 22.
The B grade clash between Wandin and Woori was a more even affair, with the scores ending up at 67 to 55, with Wandin taking the win.
Woori’s A side lost 48 to 69.
Tough day for Mustangs but women deliver a draw
By Geoff ‘Joffa’ Newstead
After a bright start to the season in Round 1, the Mooroolbark Mustangs came back to earth in Round 2. The only highlight for the day was the Senior Women registering a hard fought draw against Waverley Blues at Heights Reserve. It was close all game with only a few points separating the teams at each change. A bit more accuracy in front of goal by the Mustang girls may have seen the result go their way. Tahlee Steele, playing her first game at senior level, was named best with S. Haberfield, Doevelaar, McMaster, Carrucan and Beer also featuring in the best.
• Final Score : Mooroolbark 5 – 10 – 40 drew Waverley Blues 6 – 4 – 40
The Reserves and Seniors ventured to Quambee Reserve to take on North Ringwood in very warm conditions. The Reserves struggled all game against the very strong and classy Saints. There were very few highlights with the Mustangs’ only goal coming late in the game. With a number of new players in the side, it will take some time to gel as a team so hopefully, they can
look forward to some improved performance as the season progresses. Best players were Argus, George, Sheedy, Stares, Bates and Hamilton.
• Final Score : North Ringwood 13 – 19 – 97 d Mooroolbark 1 – 3 - 9
The Seniors game was also a very tough encounter with very little in it for the entire game. The Mustangs fought it out right to the end but ended up going down by 14 points. Sadly, the Mustangs sustained a number of serious injuries with Jett Hartman going to hospital with severe concussion, Braedon Dobie also going in the ambulance with a suspected broken collarbone and Jarrod Gilbee suffering a shoulder injury. All at the club wish them a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing them in the green and gold again in the near future.
• Final Score : North Ringwood 13 – 9 – 87 d Mooroolbark 11 – 7 – 73
• Best Players : Peacock, Noonan, Downie, Riley, Jarrod Gilbee, Maki
• Goals : Gebert 3 Peacock 2 Dobie, Kennedy, Gilbee, Wright, Ryan Colliver 1 each
Coldstream’s first at home
By Hannah Chappell
It was a full house at Halley Supple Reserve on Saturday as Coldstream Football Netball Club hosted a massive day of footy, with all football teams taking to the field in front of a passionate home crowd.
The action kicked off early under warm and sunny skies, with the Coldstream women’s team leading the charge against Chirnside Park FNC.
Battling both the opposition and the heat, the girls showed serious grit and determination, setting the tone for a cracking day of footy.
With a handful of club debutantes pulling on the jumper for the first time, the team was fired up to make their mark — and launch they did.
Coming out strong and full of fire, they stormed to a commanding 41–6 lead by quarter time.
The scoreboard pressure didn’t stop there, with the Cougars continuing to dominate across the ground to claim a massive 110–7 win.
It was a genuine team performance, with six individual players hitting the scoreboard.
Abbey Broughan led the way with a bag of five goals, while Sophie Stark tore through the midfield with her pace, clean hands, and relentless running.
Sophie finished with three goals of her own and was rightfully named the Coldstream Brewery Player of the Round.
Next up, the reserves took on The Basin in
a tough contest.
Despite plenty of heart and effort, the boys went down 34 to 100. Austin White was a standout and earned Reserves Player of the Round for his solid performance across four quarters.
The senior men’s side closed out the day with a tightly fought, goal-for-goal clash against The Basin.
The contest carried extra significance, with Allan Chandler running out for his 300th senior game, an incredible milestone achieved across two leagues and two clubs.
The Cougars pushed The Basin all the way in a fierce contest.
In the end, The Basin just edged ahead to take the win 67 to 56. Darcy Carrigan was a standout in the middle, kicking three goals and earning the Yarra Valley Steel Player of the Round for his efforts.
• Seniors:
• Coldstream: 8.8.56
• Basin: 10.7.67
• Goalkickers: D Carrigan 3, M Edmonds 2, J Voss 2, D Fritsch 1
• Reserves:
• Coldstream: 5.4. 34
• Basin: 15.10.100
• Goalkickers: A. White 4, S Kollosche 1
• Womens:
• Coldstream: 16.14.110
• Chirnside: 1.1.7
• Goalkickers: A Broughan 5, T O’Kane 4, S Stark 3, M Stark 2, S Coghlan 1, E Rackham 1
Ben Monkhorst kicking a goal for Woori Yallock. (Adam Sykes)
L-R: The 2025 Mooroolbark Mustangs Senior Women’s leadership group Ruby Haberfield, Jordy Doevelaar and Jordyn Forrest. (Supplied)
Ash Springett (left) and April Jeeves, with their daughters, who debuted for the Coldstream. (Supplied)
They are successful in local business... but what do our Tip-Stars know about Footy? Follow them every week and give them the feedback they deserve...
FOOTY TIPSTERS
Q&A
Ken Hunt
1. What made you barrack for the AFL team you follow today?
I was seven years old in 1963 and Geelong won the Grand Final, I thought they were magnificent and followed them ever since.
2. What’s your favourite way to spend a weekend?
I enjoy taking my 93 year old father to Macca’s on Saturdays. Also my wife Helen and I love to maintain our 2 acre property on Sundays, its lovely to sit on our verandah at the end of the weekend with a drink and simply enjoy where we live.
3. Do you enjoy what you do for a living?
I have done many things in my life and enjoyed them all. But 30 years ago I found a small business that was about to close called Monbulk Jewellers. My wife and I purchased the business and have grown it to be a successful vibrant wonderful business where I have been able to service
the community with great services and beautiful quality products. I also still enjoy my great loves, gemstones and my artwork that is on display at our shop
4. What’s your favourite type of cuisine? Simple, lovely home cooked meals and occasionally a special meal and night out at the Monbulk Bowling Club or the Watering Hole.
5. What are 3 words that describe you best
Sincere, Genuine, Loving
6. When you were little, what did you think you were going to be?
Gemmologist and Artist (painter)
7. Who would you like to have dinner with and why (could be anyone, dead or alive)?
Leonardo De Vince – The artist in me would love to have a chat
8. What advice would you offer to your younger self?
Be more self confident. Strive to do what you want to do, and enjoy your marvelous life whatever comes
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