The foothills edition 21 by The Foothills

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Edition 21 - Dec 2014 - Feb 2015

Community news from UFTG, Upwey & Tecoma

Community news from Upper Ferntree Gully, Upwey & Tecoma The Foothills is distributed in Tecoma, Upwey and Upper Ferntree Gully. Total distribution of 5,000.

Email your ideas to: thefoothills@coonarahouse.org.au

Alteration of Days

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By Jill Stephenson Monday was wash day, Tuesday ironing day, Wednesday dusting and mopping. This is how it had been for sixty-five years of her married life. Thursday, shopping day. Purse, list, chemist scripts, letters to post, handkerchief. “Ready to go?” I called out “I think you better go in and check on your Father. He doesn’t look to good this morning,” replied mum as she stood at the sink busying herself with

Back to Basics p. 12

tea cups and butter plates. “He hasn’t touched his breakfast”. I made my way toward the shoe box bedroom, cloaked with dread, for I already knew. Heaviness of heart made each step slow and painful, dragging my feet across the carpet make threadbare from shuffling slippers. I placed my hand on his hand, bend down and kissed his forehead. I stroked his wispy silver hair and smiled lovingly at my oldest and dearest playmate. In the far distance of my mind, moments shared with my father flickered past quickly till the film

Coonara Community House p. 14

ran off its spool to the present time. I straightened up. “He’s gone”. Standing in the doorway, clutching her worn out wicker shopping basket, Mum looked so much smaller now, vulnerable, fragile. I stared into the windows of her soul and saw the sadness, it was the first time we had shared anything in common. The days of the week would never be so certain for her ever again but my days had now been fated.

TVAG p. 13

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015

The Foothills Editor’s Letter Coonara Community House 22 Willow Rd Upper Ferntree Gully VIC 3156

Phone: (03) 9758 7081 thefoothills@coonarahouse.org.au www.thefoothills.org.au Editors Marina Cook Leanne FitzGerald Designers Jessica Hardy Emily FitzGerald Photographer Darren Clarke Contributors Terry Barca Bernadette Dimitrov Marina Cook Kim Hubber David Jewell Nicole Kirkwood Cr Karen Orpen Angela Ralph Jess Steele Jill Stephenson Sandi Wallace Ingrid Ward Printer Newsprinters Pty Ltd. Views and comments expressed in this paper are not necessarily those of any member of The Foothills newspaper or Coonara Community House unless acknowledged as such. Products and services listed or advertised in the newspaper should not be considered as endorsments. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy or editorial content, The Foothills newspaper takes no responsibility for errors.

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015 Spring – mental health Summer – Local music and art

Yes – you read right. It is time to say goodbye to the current Foothills format of being a newspaper…

This doesn’t mean we disregard all other news – but it does help give the magazine synergy and flow.

Over the years – the paper version has served us well. But what we are finding is many of the residents actually keep previous editions of the Foothills to read and re-read over again.

We are looking for like-minded proactive people to join us. Whether you have the experience or are looking to broaden your skill set – we would love to hear from you.

We want to reflect the readership and values of our community. Therefore, we are steering away from the newspaper feel and moving forward with a magazine copy, with full glossy coloured paper which you can continuously flick through without getting your hands dirty.

There is a place for everyone and we would like to accommodate as much as possible.

We are now in the process of gathering a permanent volunteer committee to help get the Foothills off the ground – so there will be a few changes. We aim to meet twice every edition (there are four editions) – to ensure we deliver the best reading material online and offline. Therefore, the commitment would be approximately, 8 meeting a year.

Mabel

money for her to attend university for two years of her four-year course. It was up to Mabel to raise the rest of the money. She did all the things that students tend to do in such circumstances, but by far her favourite job was working in an office. It was a small company with only a handful of employees so everyone who worked there needed to be versatile, and that was something that Mabel could lay claim to; versatility.

Help shape The Foothills for your community. We have so many stories to tell and information to share.

She had an excellent telephone voice, knew what a filing cabinet was and was a whizz with numbers.

If you are interested – please email: thefoothills@coonarahouse.org.au. We plan to meet very soon and we will be in touch.

By Terry Barca

This edition is a mixture of creative writing and articles. We have so many talented people in the hills and we love showcasing this.

“She reads such deep books—all about facts and figures: she’ll be quite a blue-stocking by and by.”

We will be having themed editions next year – as they are really popular with our audience.

So grab a cuppa, slice of cake and relax with the final edition of the Newspaper Version of The Foothills.

-- Elizabeth Gaskell, Wives and Daughters, 1864-1866

Therefore, our themes for 2015 are: Autumn – volunteering Winter – Diversity and culture

Regards Marina Cook Editor

Bluestocking is such an old-fashioned term but it described Mabel to a tee. When she was a little girl everyone thought she was ‘so serious’, which wasn’t true. She liked to have fun, the same way everybody else did, the difference with her was she was also curious. All little girls are curious but Mabel was curious about big things. Big ideas; the way things worked, and didn’t work. She was hungry for the truth, whatever that might be. Her parents were not well off but somehow they managed to scrape together enough for Mabel to go to university. Now, that is not quite correct, and Mabel would like me to be precise; her parents had put aside enough

Everyone enjoyed having her around and she enjoyed the job the way that anyone who knows that they are not going to be there forever enjoys a job, with grace and calm good humour. Studying full-time meant that she could not always be in the office during regular office hours, so she made up the time by working late and working on Saturdays. In those days everyone worked on Saturdays but only until 12 O’Clock. Mabel went through till 5pm. Personally, I would be forced to hurt someone if I had to work in an office but Mabel loved it. Every situation has it’s own personal aroma, and the smell of office supplies was like an aphrodisiac to Mabel. Even dust had it’s appeal. It was a time before air-conditioning so each season added it’s own aroma though the often opened windows. In Winter the smell of wet overcoats and damp shoes continued the melody of aromas. Mabel completed her degree with distinction but when it came to pursuing her chosen career she was caught in a quandary. In the short-term money was not a draw as her starting salary was slightly

less than what she had been earning at the office. Using her newly won credentials would mean starting at the bottom. No respect and few friends. She knew that these things would sort themselves out with time but her time was now, and the prospect of waiting years for what she already had, was not to her liking. Her cosy little office job offered her everything she had ever wanted, respect, a reasonable income, security, and a sense of being needed. When she told her boss she was going to stay he offered her a raise even though she hadn’t asked for one. She lived in a nice little flat in a nice little block of flats on a nice little street with heaps of other blocks of flats. She traveled to work by tram and ate her lunch in the park. The young men in her building paid her a lot of attention and one day she would choose one of them as a mate, but not just yet. Her life was good and she was not in a hurry to see it change. She missed the study but she enjoyed the extra money that working full-time brought. She knew that it would not be long before she was managing the office and who knew what would come next. She didn’t wear blue stockings every day but when she did she wore them with pride. She was an independent woman, making her own way in the world. She had a degree which she didn’t use and a job that she enjoyed. No matter what stockings she was wearing she knew that she had made a success of her life.

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015

20 years of Classic Window Furnishings children to look after, she completed a two year part-time course at RMIT, studying Interior Decorating, which enabled her to understand design and colour. Along with her husband, Mark Roberts, who had worked in soft furnishings – they soon became a formidable team. Ann assessed a person’s home and was able to give valuable advice on colour, tone and creative ideas. Mark was the practical half, installing curtains and ensuring everything worked perfectly. They began by working from home for about 4 years, before they realised they needed to separate work from home.

Ann at Classic Window Furnishings By Marina Cook “Keep reinventing yourself” states Ann Roberts, owner of Classic Window Furnishings, located in the strip of shops in Upper Ferntree Gully. Serving customers for over 20 years, Ann gives insight to how the business continues to prosper in the local community. Starting from home Ann was always interested in Interior Design. With a husband and two

Finding the right premises Ann and Mark didn’t need to search far. The ease of parking out the front of the Upper Ferntree Gully strip of shops – which is a luxury many shopping strips do not have, was an immediate appeal. They took over, what used to be the Upper Gully Fairy Shop, over 16 years ago, and they haven’t looked back. ‘Being local means meeting many wonderful local people ... both of us feel that way!’ Ann states. Being in the business so long and giving excellent customer service sees a lot of repeat customers. Lovely spot.

Learn a multitude of ways to work with various types of leather. Make your own bag, phone cover, book cover, etc.

LEATHERCRAFT CLASSES

Ph: Jack 0412 781 325 www.akajack2003.wix.com/workshops For all ages – from beginner to advanced. Four week courses, Tuesday evenings, Upwey.

Customer Service and Fruit Cake “We have a very personal service philosophy and our mantra is we don’t forget our customers. You have to nurture your customers. Continuously do a good job. Continuously do extra things to go above and beyond. There are many elderly people in the local area. One time Mark went around to quote on some new blinds and while he was there, he fixed the current ones installed so it worked properly. This elderly lady asked how she could repay him. Mark told her not to worry about it and this woman stated “I know what to do… I’ll bake you a cake!” “So, usually we receive money… but at other times we are paid in fruitcake!” Ann laughs. “But it’s the customer service that counts. It might not be them that you get the next job from, but it may be their son or grandchildren or neighbour”. “Always go above and beyond the call of duty. Most people do remember”. Keep Reinventing Your Brand Classic Window Furnishings will always give the best service and price on comparable products. Whilst there is competition on all industries, we stay focused on what we are doing best and hope that with our attention to detail and customer

MASSAGE FACIALS MANICURES PEDICURES MAKEUP TINTING PAMPER PACKAGES GIFT VOUCHERS SHELLAC WAXING SPRAY TAN EYELASH EXTENSIONS

Moved from Tecoma to work from home in Upper Ferntree Gully. Mobile contact is 0400 530 894

satisfaction that our Customers old and new will keep coming. “It is important to concentrate on your own business Stay sharp and make sure your product and signage isn’t looking tired. Change it up.” Ann says “We have recently created new signage at the front of the shop, changed our logo and changed our look. If customers see the same tired look, they tend not to notice. Once we placed our new signage up – we had people commenting on how they had just found us”. Our clientele are also changing. The parents, who initially bought their curtains from us and now referring their children, who are now growing up and owning their own homes, to us.

But their children shop differently. We have recently updated our website to reflect their buying process and to help showcase the wide range we offer. Reinvent Your Products Classic Window Furnishings relies on being up-to-date with the latest trends to ensure their customers are well taken care off. Their product ranges from curtains to Eco Screens, basic roller blinds to outside awnings and plantation shutters. The trends Ann states are popular are: • Minimalist design (blinds are back) • Sheers (to let light in but to also keep privacy) • Plantation Shutters • Simple yet contemporary curtains

Her Last Beautiful Breath By Jess Steele The room is lit with a dim light, the curtain moves like a wave as the wind snicks in through the jarred window. There she lies with tubes leaving her body, a body that has lived a long life. Her family sits by her bed, some holding her hand others just watching the minute hand slip by. The family was never close but as with any dying parent there seems to be something that brings them together. She lived her life as though everyday was her last; she was always there for her family and always went an extra mile to help her grandchildren, she was never one to put you down. As I watch her lying there my heart bleeds with this unspeakable pain. It took me too long to let her into my life. She was always old and I never felt that she wanted little children around. I was wrong and lost eighteen years with my grandmother. As night takes over the family leave for another day, they have done their duty and are free to go. I stay; I don’t want her to be alone. I take a seat in

a worn leather chair with cracks from the sunlight and from people sitting in it, the chair closest to her bed. I sit quietly with my elbows resting on the arm-rests, my hands folded together under my chin. The smell of the last cigarette drifts off my fingers, it really does smell, Nan was always telling me that they smelled. ‘She’s not in any pain, love.’ Comes a voice from the doorway. A nurse looks in, holding a clip board and torch. I look up at her but not really at her through her, I want to be alone, with my grandmother. She was the only family member who didn’t turn their back on me. Who opened up her home to me when I had nowhere else to go? Who was always there when I needed someone to talk to. ‘I never said thank-you.’ I say to the nurse as she walks into the room, fighting back the tears. ‘Say it now, she can hear you. She is just in a deep sleep. Resting.’ she says as she tilts her head and gives me a smile from the corner of her mouth. ‘I’ll leave you alone; just give me a

However, Ann is also predicting colour to return in 2015. “Vivid colours like turquoise and orange will be making a comeback. Not the full curtain but splashes of colour to compliment yet not overpower the room”. I was privy to see some new samples which have just come in and I must say they are beautiful. A great way to pick up colours from a cushion or give some life to a bland room. Classic Window Furnishings are at 1250 Burwood Hwy, Upper Ferntree Gully. Ph: 9752 2555 Email: classicwindow@bigpond.com Web: www.classicwindow.com.au

shout if you need me.’ She walked out of the room just as quietly as she entered. Alone with the only sound of the heart monitor, I take her hand gently, her hand is old, wrinkled, covered with age-spots. Gently I slide my hand into hers, to let her know I’m still with her. ‘Nan, you know I am not one for talking much, especially when there are people around, but we are alone now and I need you to hear this. You have been there for me when no-one else wanted me. You were there when I was at the worst point of my life and you helped me to stay alive. We are not a very emotional family; we don’t much hug or kiss even. But I never said anything about how grateful I am for you being you. For you letting me be me. I never once said I love you. Nan, I love you.’ As I say the words it feels like I have swallowed a fist, fighting hard not to cry. Her chest rises and falls, for the last time. In the moment of her death it felt as though all she needed to hear was that she was loved and that she was going to be missed. She left and it broke my heart but because of my Nan my heart is stronger.

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015

Excerpt from Tell Me Why Rural Crime Files: 01 A Georgie Harvey & John Franklin Thriller would really be their well-trampled top paddock. These flowers grew so abnormally bright that they glowed like miniature suns and she had to shield her eyes with a hand. The brightness became hot, so hot that she moved a forearm over her face. Then the cat growled; a long, guttural note that sounded a warning. He nipped her finger and roused her from the dream. More asleep than awake, she soothed him. What had upset the amiable puss?

Tell Me Why by Sandi Wallace book cover By Sandi Wallace Part One ‘There is no right way to deal with tragedy, no blueprint to grief. Some people find talking a cathartic experience. Some…want to share their feelings in a prime-time, multichannel wake.’ Andrew Rule & John Silvester ‘Lady’s Day’ from On Murder 2 Prelude In her dream, she was still plain and plumpish, her hair streaked with grey. Beyond that, though, everything seemed off-kilter. The first thing she noticed was that she floated above herself as she stood in a paddock. She was without her obligatory glasses and wore a floral housedress not overalls. The images in her dream distorted and reshaped and became even more unreal. Huge sunflowers covered what

Her husband shook her. She sat up in bed, puzzled. As she donned her glasses, she saw that he’d pulled on work boots and a woollen jumper over his long pyjamas. ‘Quick!’ he yelled, shutting their bedroom window. They reached the front verandah but couldn’t see anything for the hedge around the house, except an orange flush in the night sky. They could feel the intense heat and hear the sinister sound of uncontrolled flames. From the picket fence they saw billows of smoke. Several sheds were alight. Her husband sprinted for the hose; she for the telephone, to call the local fire captain. Panic clutched at her chest while she filled buckets of water. Her knees nearly buckled as she dashed towards the outbuildings. Which first? The hay shed was fully involved; a lost cause. The barn or machinery shed? No animals in the barn tonight.

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015 The latter, then, as it held the combustibles and expensive equipment. She dumped the water. It did nothing but sizzle. She ran back to the house, detoured to the water trough and returned with soaked woollen blankets. She crashed into a wall of heat; so fierce it scorched her eyes. As the hay shed erupted, it sent embers in every direction. She protected her face from those missiles of fire with an arm, mimicking her dream persona. Wind fanned the roaring tongues, adding to the crescendo. She coughed as smoke filled her lungs. Fire merged the sweet odours of hay and timber with acrid fumes of fuel, pesticides and rubber. Her eyes watered. ‘Where are you?’ she cried out to her husband. ‘Are you safe?’ She fought the flames harder. She would never give up – on him or the farm. Above the bellow of the fire and rupturing structures and terrified shrieks of sheep and cattle, she couldn’t hear a thing. Throat blistered with heat, smoke and yelling for her husband, she couldn’t tell if she managed to make a sound or if the screams were only in her head. Then, a hand clasped her shoulder and something struck her temple. She crumpled to the ground. Chapter 1 FRIDAY 12 MARCH Senior Constable John Franklin had been cooped up with Paul Wells for hours. Too long without a smoke or coffee because the constable was driving and fast-track-Wells didn’t pay much attention to those who wore fewer than three stripes on their epaulette. But that wasn’t why Franklin wanted

to throttle him. It was because Wells measured time, distance, temperature, power poles and countless other things. Plus he was a rigid perfectionist with as much personality as a dead carp. Franklin’s workmates rated the bloke’s neurotic traits with fingernails scratching down a blackboard. His two consecutive rest days relegated to distant memories by the OCD freak, he ruled it much worse. ‘Four and a half minutes,’ Wells said. He tapped his watch. Franklin groaned. So today’s general patrol took five minutes longer than the previous trip. Big deal. ‘Should not have stopped for Charlie Banks…’ And that’s the difference between a copper from the country and a cockhead from the big smoke. Franklin tuned out. A lonely bugger, poor Charlie often wanted to chew their ears. On this occasion, about his dog’s arthritis but it was just an excuse for company. Yet Wells evidently thought the schedule more important than a quick chat with the old codger. Franklin scrutinised the intense constable as he unclipped his seatbelt. The bloke was third generation cop with dad, uncles and grandfather all among the brass. Odds-on he’d be promoted and back to the city before most coppers learned to scratch

themselves. They wouldn’t improve him, so somehow they’d have to bide time until he moved on.

frowned at the mobile screen. Number withheld. She thumbed the call switch to answer.

Granted, the real problem today wasn’t Wells. It came from him. Because he was the single parent of a hormonal teenager with attitude and because after sixteen years in the same country town he still wore a uniform. He chatted to lonely folk, changed light globes, chopped wood and mowed lawns for elderly widows, pointed the radar for hours on end and sorted out the same drunks, the same domestics. Those were the good days. One of his blackest days had seen him as pallbearer at the funeral of a road victim who was also a mate from the footy club. All a far cry from where he’d planned to be by his mid-thirties.

‘Georgie Harvey.’

Some days start badly and end up your worst nightmare. She should have seen the ladder in her new pantihose when she pulled them on this morning – hell, the need to wear a bloody skirt and heels itself – as a damn omen. A sign that she’d end up here, two beers down, stomach clenched while she cursed Narkin. ‘Bastard.’ The bartender shot her a glare, not the first for that afternoon. She hadn’t meant to say it aloud and grimaced. She resumed pushing the penne pasta around her plate. The Flight of the Bumblebee pealed. She fished through her bag and

‘It’s Ruby here.’ Georgie cringed. She had avoided the older woman since yesterday but was caught now. ‘Michael and I are hoping you’ll look up Susan…’ What was her name? Susan Petticoat, Prenticast? Ruby’s supposedly missing friend. Whatever; Georgie wasn’t inclined to drive to Hicksville on a wild-goose chase. She was saved by Ruby’s cry of ‘You silly duffer! What’ve you done?’ The phone clunked. Georgie necked some beer and considered hanging up. She couldn’t. I hope you enjoyed this extract from my new book Tell Me Why. For your copy of Tell Me Why, please ask at your local bookshop or come along to one of my events and buy a personalised copy. Visit my website for links to buy online www.sandiwallace.com/books/ or to check out my upcoming events www. sandiwallace.com/news-events/. Cheers, Sandi!

UPWEY / BELGRAVE RSL

1 MASTGULLY RD UPWEY 9754 3665

www.upweybelgraversl.org.au admin@upweybelgraversl.org.au We open at 2.00pm Monday to Saturday, 10.30am Sundays. Our bistro hours are 6.00pm Wednesday to Monday (closed Tuesdays). The museum is open 10.30am to 2.00pm every Thursday and Sunday. We are a non-gaming traditional RSL. Our venue is family friendly and offers regular entertainment, bar and bistro. Our gardens and deck provide stunning views of the nearby hills. We have function rooms for hire, ideal for birthdays and business meetings. Find us on Facebook or visit our website.

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015

The Shadow of the Wind

Lament of a Single Soul

Author: Lucia Graves

I am so alone .. so terribly alone, I have no anchors in my life - just my home. Except for those who share my plight, No other can understand, no other can know The searing loneliness when I unlock the door each night, To be greeted only with the taunting silence and never a welcoming light. A plate of food, a glass of wine and only me Another solitary meal with the newsreader on T.V. for company. Nobody else can know or understand, Save another like me How it feels and what it is to be Ill in bed and have no one stroke my fevered brow Or bring a cup of tea. I can remember a time, long ago now When I ached for solitude. In a large, noisy household There was ever a sibling waiting to intrude, Poking a face into my small, private space. I now have that solitude and space I craved The price tag attached, is of course The ache of loneliness. Oh dear Lord! I am so alone.. What wouldn’t I now give to hear a sleepy voice murmur a goodnight Or in the hush before the dawn, should I happen to wake, To hear another’s rhythmic breath in slumber, To see a smile and hear a greeting with the morning light. To share my everyday high and low With another soul; Someone to turn to and share a piece of news, or To enjoy a pleasant-weather day together When I can choose to be silent or to chatter. Oh! How will I live until I am old? - how will I go on To wake each birthday, each Christmas morn Alone … so alone? And yet, even after all these years, I cannot bear to give up hope or prayer That just around tomorrow’s corner There will be waiting .. someone to care and to share. In writing this, I have gained some little consolation, Having put into words a situation Many of us know first hand, and Through reading my lament, Those others may take the time to stop and think and understand.

"Every time a book changes hands, every time someone runs his eyes down its pages, its spirit grows and strengthens". This is what Daniel's father tells him in the novel by Spanish author Carlos Ruiz Zafόn. The translation into English by Lucia Graves takes nothing from the beauty of the narrative. This is a novel which is not easy to fit into a single genre. Beginning in Barcelona in the 1940's, in the aftermath of the Spanish Civil War, it is part history, part adventure, part mystery, and part love story. It is the story of Daniel, the son of a bookseller, who finds a novel in the Cemetery of Forgotten Books which captures his imagination. However, his attempts to find out more about the author seem to run into a blank wall. This is despite there being some people who are very keen to get their hands on his book-some to revere it, others to destroy it. The mystery surrounding this author only serves to make Daniel more determined to find out what happened to him. The story follows Daniel as he grows from a youth into a young man and learns about love and life. In post Civil War Barcelona, these can be harsh lessons to learn. The people Daniel meets along his journey make up a cast of various interesting characters, with the city itself almost becoming one of them. This is a story about the power of books and writers. It is about how, while the words may comfort or inspire some, they can threaten others. As a consequence, there are great lengths to which some people will go to protect them and others to destroy them. From Book Review Club

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015

By Ingrid Ward

(Extract from “InVerse Too …” ©Ingrid Ward)

ange R a r r s Ya

Counselling Counselling and Psychotherapy Chronic Pain & Illness Management Groups and Workshops Adults and Children

100 Main St Upwey 8288 1744 www.yarrarangescounselling.com.au info@yarrarangescounselling.com.au

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015

Local Upwey Business Keeping Seniors Safe at Home, Instead Home Instead Senior Care in Melbourne’s Outer East is helping keep seniors safe at home with their latest public education booklet – Making Home Safer for Seniors.

“I was becoming increasingly concerned that mum was going to have a fall at home. She appeared to grow frailer by the day and daily tasks were proving to be a struggle.

The free booklet includes a number of simple home safety solutions, a home safety checklist and information on where seniors can access home maintenance and modification support.

“With holiday plans on the horizon, I was anxious about leaving mum at home with no one to look out for her.

Business owner, Suzanne McLoughlin, said it is important that your home is, and remains, a safe, healthy and practical living environment for as long as possible. “Surveys show that 90% of Australian seniors want to remain in the comfort of their own home as they age rather than institutionalized care. “However, the majority of seniors haven’t taken any steps to prepare their homes for their changing needs as they grow older. “Research has shown that every year, one in three Australians aged 65 years and over and living in their own home will have a fall. “More often than not, solutions are relatively easy and affordable fixes—and could make the difference between a trip to the emergency room and staying safe at home, instead.” One local resident, Margaret, experienced firsthand the peace of mind good senior safety can bring.

“After meeting with Home Instead, I could relax knowing that help was there 24hrs a day, 7days a week if mum needed it. “I was able to relax and I can’t thank you enough for giving us such peace of mind.” Business owner, Suzanne McLoughlin said she is proud to be caring for over 600 seniors in the local area and employing more than 60 local, caring and compassionate individuals. “Home Instead Senior Care makes a difference in the lives of seniors and their families, helping with a range of personal and lifestyle needs while providing welcome companionship.” “We are committed to helping you and your family find the right care solution for your senior’s individual needs.” For a free, no-obligation care consultation, please call Suzanne on 03 9754 4861. For more information on Home Instead Senior Care and our senior care resources visit http://zee. homeinstead.com.au/outereast/

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015 Background Home Instead Senior Care is a specialist, provider of high quality in-home care for older people. We help with a range of personal and lifestyle needs while providing welcome companionship. Our services include assistance with personal care, light household duties, meal preparation, medication reminders, transport to appointments, shopping and social outings. We take personal responsibility for providing the best in-home care and support to meet our clients’ needs and are committed to addressing the individual and national challenges of Australia’s ageing population. Established in 1994 in the United States, Home Instead now operates in 17 countries through a network of 1000 offices. In Australia, Home Instead operates in every mainland state, sharing resources and support across State borders. We employ and train our CAREGivers to understand the challenges facing people as they get older and provide specialized care through our unique training program to support the needs of clients with dementia. We understand that to you, it’s about finding trustworthy care for your ageing loved one. To us, it’s about providing the highest quality, in-home care services to fit you and your family’s needs. Contact us for a free no-obligation consultation where we can discuss the needs of your loved one and provide you with information and advice to help you and your family find the right care solution. www.homeinstead.com.au

Live independently at home, instead. We are specialist, national providers of high quality in-home care and companionship for older Australians.

Our CAREGivers provide professional quality home care and companionship services, including: • Light housekeeping • Companionship • Medication reminders • Personal care • Errands & transport • Meal preparation • Respite care • Dementia care Choose the services you want from 1 to 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Call for your complimentary care consultation:

9754 4864 MELBOURNE OUTER EAST

H O M E I N S T E A D. C O M . A U

Each Home Instead Senior Care Franchise Office is independently owned and operated. © M&S Warner Pty Ltd 2014.

Supporting Coonara Community House List and sell your home with Bell Real Estate, Belgrave Supporting Coonara Community House SELL your or LIST referand a friend andhome with * Bell Real Estate, to we will donate $500Belgrave or refer a friend and we will donate $500.00* to Coonara House CoonaraCommunity Community House For further information contact Bec Halit on 0429 888 367 For further information contact: or rebecca@bellrealestate.com.au

BEC HALIT on 0429 888 367 or rebecca@bellrealestate.com.au * Terms & Conditions apply. Referred friend must list and sell with Bell Real Estate for Coonara Community House to receive donation.

*Terms & Conditions apply. Refered friend must list and sell with Bell Real Estate for Coonara Community House to receive donation.

bell

9754 6888

R E A L E S TA TE

1689 Burwood Highway, BELGRAVE bellrealestate.com.au

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015

Ferntree Gully and Rowville Community Bank® Branches

Back to Basics

a treat to your taste buds, consider trying your hand at beekeeping in your own backyard. As honeybees gather pollen and nectar to make 50 kilos or more of pure honey per hive, they pollinate crops nearby — and up to ten kilometres away. This pollination is essential for good yields for some flowering crops. Best of all, honeybees require only simple management once the hives are up and running.

Backyard bee keeping and honey production

Place hives in a warm, sunny position, preferably with a north-easterly aspect.

Adding a hive to your backyard makes your productive garden even more prolific and provides honey as well.

In summer, hives should be shaded during late morning and afternoon. This will reduce the need for the bees to seek water to cool the hive in hot weather.

About 65 per cent of the crops we grow in Australia depend on bee pollination. If you’d like to benefit your garden and community and offer

Bees can be trained to fly in a certain direction or height, by positioning the

hive and placing an obstruction in their flight path. If bees are forced to reach a height of about three to four metres to cross this obstruction, they will fly at this height and not bother pedestrians or neighbours.

Destination Tecoma Festival

In a good season you could harvest 30 or 40 kilos of honey. Many neighbourhood houses offer introduction to beekeeping courses and a Bee Keepers Club operates from Coonara Community House. www.depi.vic.gov.au/agricultureand-food/livestock/honey-bees/ hobby-beekeeping Read more: www.motherearthnews. com/homesteading-and-livestock/ natural-beekeeping-zmaz08fmzmcc. aspx#ixzz3IGfuQc66

What began as an idea to turn Tecoma from a town that one drives through into a positive Hills destination is slowly coming to fruition with plans well underway for a Festival in 12 months time.

Art, Recycled and Upcycled Fashion, Abundant Food, Kid’s Faire, Pony Rides, Fabulous Hill’s Craft, Irish Dance, Contemporary Dance and the Tecoma Floral Carpet are all planned for this Celebration of Community.

Planned for November 7th 2015, the Destination Tecoma Festival will draw thousands of visitors to Tecoma to celebrate our unique township and very special community.

Organisers are now reaching out to Community Groups and businesses who would like to participate in or support Destination Tecoma. A golden opportunity to bring your name before

2015 TVAG Committee

thousands of Hills locals and visitors. Sponsorship opportunities are also available, providing mutual benefits. There are many people in our community whose voice isn’t heard and whose work on our behalf isn’t recognised as it should be. Destination Tecoma plans to change this situation. Although the festival is the flagship event, Destination Tecoma has other exciting events planned over the next 12 months including an exciting new youth scheme. Destination Tecoma can be contacted through: Email: destinationtecoma@yahoo.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ destinationtecoma Phone: 0423 248 908

The Annual General Meeting of the Tecoma Village Action Group was held on Wednesday 12th November 2014 at the Upwey/Belgrave RSL. After an enjoyable pre-meeting dinner the meeting was called to order by the outgoing President, Nicole Gale. After elections conducted by our local Councillor Samantha Dunn, the follow were elected to positions on the 2015 Committee. President: Barbara Crisp Vice Pres: David Jewell Secretary: Louise Miksza Treasurer: Steve Wood www.tvag.org.au

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015 Computers

COONARA COMMUNITY HOUSE Nationally accredited training Coonara Community House is a Registered Training Organisation approved to deliver training in the following Nationally Recognised Qualifications, in 2015. Enrolment kits are available on the Coonara website or can be mailed to you.

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30113)

Thursday 6.30 – 9.00pm Plus one Saturday per month 9.30am – 4.00pm 21st February 2015- 14th November 2015

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC50113) Thursday 6.30 – 9.00pm Plus one Saturday per month 9.30am – 4.00pm 21st February 2015- 7th July 2016

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC50113) – for those with existing Cert 3 Monday 9.30am – 3.00pm 2nd February 2015 – 7th December 2015

Certificate IV in Leisure and Health (CHC40608) Wednesday 6.30 – 9.00pm Plus one Saturday per term 9.30am – 4.00pm 18th February 2015 – 25th November 2015 Diploma of Leisure and Health (CHC50512) Tuesday 6.30 – 9.00pm 17th February 2015 – 31st May 2016

Certificate III in Community Services Work (CHC30112) Tuesday and Thursday 9.30am – 3.00pm 12th May 2015 – 17th September 2015

Certificate IV iin Community Development (CHC 40608) Thursday 9.30am – 3.00pm 5th February 2015 – 26th November 2015

Share The Joy Appeal This appeal aims to reach families and individuals in need with a hamper of festive food and a selection of quality gifts for children. Donations of non perishable food and toys can be left at Coonara Community House and monetary donations can be made online www.givenow.com.au/knoxsharethejoy

Computers Computers for the timid (15INTCOM) A beginner’s course for those who may require a supportive environment to develop confidence. Learn to type and save simple documents, insert pictures and manage files. Wednesdays 9.30am – 12.00pm 4th February – 25th March $70 or $60 concession* Introduction to ipads (15INTIPADS)

This short course will cover the features of the ipad and demonstrate how to use it to access the Internet and a range of social media tools and apps. Thursdays 9.30am – 12.00pm 5th February – 26th March $70 or $60 concession*

Social media and digital literacy for work and study (15DIGLIT)

Investigate different types of social media and gadgets. Includes Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and apps, Pinterest, blogging and Linkedin. Fridays 9.30am – 12.00pm 6th February – 27th March $70 or $60 concession*

Social media for your business (15DIGLIT) This course focuses on the use of emarketing to promote your business. Marina will introduce social media tools and help you identify their potential; blogging, enewletters, YouTube and Google, Facebook and Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram. Tuesday 6.30pm – 9.30pm 17th February – 24th March

RTO 3733 ABN 65554350180 22 Willow Rd (P.O. Box 7041) Upper Ferntree Gully VIC 3156 T 03 9758 7081 F 03 9758 5402 E enquiries@coonarahouse.org.au W www.coonarahouse.org.au

Internet and Email (15INTEMAIL) This short course is for those who are new computer users and lack the confidence to access the Internet and send and receive emails. This course will include attaching documents and pictures to emails and finding and saving information from the Internet. Tuesday 9.30am – 12.00pm 3rd February – 24th March $70 or $60 concession* Digital seniors classes Are you a senior aged 65 years plus? Would you like to receive help to use your own laptop, tablet or iPad in a small group? Classes are available for $2 per person and will be held at local libraries, The Community Space at Knox City Shopping Centre and at the Knox Neighbourhood Houses. Phone 9758 7081 for more information.

Email newsletters using mail chimp Mailchimp is a free email newsletter software program that can help you email the right people at the right time. Send automated emails based on customer behaviour and preferences and receive reports on performance of your email campaign. Ideal for business or community groups wanting to produce effective and timely communication with members and clients. Wednesday 12.30pm – 3.30pm 4th March $30 members or $35 non members

Online searching for genealogy Jo will introduce you to the online search sites and subscriptions that could get you started with family history research. Tuesdays 1.00pm – 3.15.pm 10th March - 24th March $80 members or $85 non members

Google makes life easier Karen will introduce you to the amazing world of Google tools that could make your online life and work so much easier. Prepare to be amazed. Wednesday 12.30pm – 3.30pm 18th March $30 members or $35 non members Learn Local funding for courses with the symbol is available to all those with Australian citizenship or permanent residency. Higher fees apply to those not in these categories.

Career preparation Preparation for work in hospitality (15PREHOSP) Would you like to improve your cooking and food service skills and learn more about potential careers in hospitality? This practical course will take you basic food preparation and serving skills in a community kitchen environment. Includes safe food handling, preparation of simple meals from a range of cultures and food service. Conducted by a qualified chef. Thursdays 9.30am – 1.30pm 26th February – 18th June $140 or $125 concession (includes tuition, amenities and materials) Preparation for work in community services (15PRECOM) Are you considering a career in community services but not confident to return to study or unsure of which field would suit you best? This short course will introduce you to the range of careers within the community services sector and provide you with the study skills to embark on entry level training in your chosen field. Tuesday 9.30am – 3.00pm February 12th - 30th April $115 or $105 concession (includes tuition, amenities and materials)

Pete the permie workshops Winter vs Summer pruning with Pete the Permie Focus on the advantages of pruning at the correct time to control disease, fruit and tree size. Lots of tips and tricks to reduce the workload. Sunday 10.00am – 4.00pm 18th January $100 BYO lunch, boots & appropriate clothing for the weather Espaliers with Pete the Permie Selecting the right trees, what shapes to use for which species, creating and maintaining them. Sunday 10.00am – 4.00pm 22nd February $100 BYO lunch, boots & appropriate clothing for the weather Biodynamic compost making and soils for trees with Pete the Permie Fruit trees do need a certain compost. Learn to make the correct compost to feed these and your veggies for a year. Learn how to never turn a heap again just build it and wait to use it in as little as 8 weeks. Saturday 10.00am – 4.00pm 7th March $100 BYO lunch, boots & appropriate clothing for the weather

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015

Cancer, Work and the Community

resting on the desk as you get very tired. My bosses never questioned my time away from the office. We also recognise the work of wonderful organisations like BCNA – Breast Cancer Network Australia that support men and women going through treatment. After my surgery I received a “My Care Kit” from the hospital which contained brochures with support information and also the most amazing Berlei Bra which has been designed especially for women who have had breast cancer treatment. Berlei really need to be congratulated for their ongoing to support with the after surgery bra. The Community Living in Upwey went a long way to helping me heal. I would often find myself looking out the windows at home to the Ranges for some peace and solitude, maybe even some inner healing. On other days I would sit in the backyard in silence and just watch

Angela and Marlene By Angela Ralph Breast Cancer Diagnosis Despite no family history of breast cancer, my twin sister Marlene and I were diagnosed within weeks of each other. After Marlene was diagnosed she urged me to get a check-up but I never thought I would be diagnosed as well. My reaction to my own diagnosis threw my doctor because I smiled as I thought to myself “Seriously?, I have shared everything in life with my twin sister, do we really have to share this as well”. Obviously there was some relief that Marlene had saved my life because of early detection. Marlene’s cancer was more aggressive than mine but I didn’t panic because when you are a twin you share a special bond, even a special language as sometimes Marlene and I can have a conversation just by looking at each other and no words are spoken between us. I knew everything was going to be ok because I could feel that Marlene was sure of it herself. Our diagnosis had become a twin thing!

Suddenly our diaries were full with medical appointments for surgery and post-op therapy. Post-cancer treatment was tough physically. I got an infection from the surgery and my skin blistered during radiotherapy. We tried to make the experience as light as possible, there were times when we cried from the pain but mostly we tried to see the funny side of things. We turned up for our radiotherapy to find our gowns with our names on them were in the cupboard side by side, the staff put us on different machines to avoid any confusion. The Workplace Marlene and I both lead very busy lives and each hold 2 jobs which we continued while having treatment. Marlene works in Administration for a government department and I work for Quinces Coaches in the Travel department and we both work casually at The Mulgrave Country Club. It is very important to recognise your workplace and colleagues when you

are having treatment. There are so many appointments to attend. Marlene had applied for a position for the government before her diagnosis; she was 3 treatments down with no hair and not feeling great when she received an email asking her to come for an interview. Straight away she called me and said that she desperately wanted this job but how would she be looked upon when she looked and felt so awful. I helped her draft an email response and the rest is history. She got the job and loves her workplace! Support in the office The support we both received from all our workplaces was overwhelming, the staff were obviously aware of what we were going through. Just a simple can I get you a drink of water or how are you feeling today or even just a question about the treatment went a long way to supporting us. I went to my radiation appointments during my lunch break as the hospital was not far from my office. There were times that I would be late back to the office or when I returned I would have my head

the birds, even when the kookaburras were laughing it made me feel better. On the weekends my husband and I would go down to the main street and enjoy a coffee at “Have Ya Been” or Abitza. Just being amongst the friendly community of Upwey gave me a sense of wellbeing and a sense that everything was going to be ok. It was these little things in life that made me feel better. I feel so blessed to live in such a lovely setting. Marlene and I are now cancer free. Breast cancer is a life-changer, but I’ve learnt you can’t let it define you. We both have since become Grandmothers with the most amazing grand-daughters that make life so wonderful. We have moved forward and although we don’t spend a lot of time looking back we are aware that the future may have been different had it not been for early detection and of course each other’s support.

Australian breast cancer statistics: • Every day 42 women will be told they have breast cancer and 7 will lose their lives to this disease • More than 15,200 women and around 120 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year alone • Each year, more than 2,700 Australian women die from breast cancer • 1 in 8 Australian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime • Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women • The average age of breast cancer diagnosis in Australia is 60 • Survival rates continue to improve with the current 5-year survival rate 89% • Breast cancer is a complex disease needing a variety of treatments including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and long-term medication – in order to survive.

FOUR

OUT OF

FIVE FOUR OUT OF

FIVE

BUSHFIRE DEATHS HAPPEN CLOSE TO HOME. IT’S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY LEAVE EARLY Check Fire Danger Ratings and warnings regularly.

LEAVE AND LIVE. visit emergency.vic.gov.au call 1800 240 667 download the FireReady app

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015

Life, Holidays & Happiness I was most honoured recently to attend a workshop on ‘Aging Well’ with a giant in the field of human behaviour, Harvard Professor George Vaillant MD. He was in charge of the world’s most famous, long-running study in history on human development ‘The Harvard Grant Study’. Spanning 75 years to unearth insights into what we value as time moves on and what is likely to make us feel happy, fulfilled and living a purposeful life.

Harvard Secrets to a Happy Fulfilling Inner Life!

The study started in 1938 and followed 268 Harvard male undergraduates from childhood to well into there 90’s. Ok yes the study had some limitations, as it didn’t include women. However the lessons are universal. Here are some of the top insights that are gifts to us all from this study:

How to flourish rather than wither inside... now that’s a gift of knowledge we could all do with!

Love = Happiness Valliant famously concluded “Love is all that really matters. Happiness is

By Bernadette Dimitrov aka Mrs Claus!

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015 love. Full stop”. According to Valliant, there are two pillars of happiness. One is love and the other is finding a way of coping with life that does not push love away. The study’s most important finding is that the only thing that matters in life is relationships / connection. You can have all the money in the world, a successful career and good physical health but without supportive, loving relationships happiness will be a distant cousin. The practice of generosity is love in action. It leaves one deeply rewarded and satisfied when you give to make others happy with no expectation of anything in return. For example, make it a new habit to give your undivided attention to your child, your spouse, your work mate or who ever is engaging with you. Too often we are so distracted by technology, tv or being busy so much so, that are hearts are not fully engaged in the moment. This is where the most satisfaction for you and others is gained.

Regardless of How We Begin Life, We Can All Become Happier Of all the subjects in the Grant Study, Godfrey Minot Camille had in the begging, fairly bleak prospects for life satisfaction. He’d attempted suicide and had the lowest rating for future stability. Yet at the end of his life, he was one of the happiest. Vaillant explains, “He spent his life searching for love.” He gave love and like a boomerang it came back to him as it will for you too if you practice unconditional love. The lesson is unconditional love creates inner happiness. That is, giving with no expectation of anything in return by focusing on what makes others happy and giving it to them unconditionally with a loving heart. Age is no barrier to happiness - we can change & teach an old dog new tricks! An inspiring finding is that people are capable of change right into old age. In the study, some of the men in there

70s and 80s were now changing for the better and finding happiness later in life. Interestingly, between 50 -75 years of age, humour and altruism (the practice of selfless concern for the well-being of others) became a bigger part of their life. A catalyst for positive emotional change. Resulting in happiness that had eluded them for years. Challenges & an optimistic Perspective Can Make You Happier Vaillant shares that the journey from immaturity to maturity is a sort of movement from narcissism (focus on self) to connection (focus on others). And a big part of this shift has to do with the way we respond to and deal with challenges. Optimism is a good coping mechanism. It’s a way to make lemonade out of lemons. It has a significant effect on well being and social support. No one likes to connect with the town moaner and constant complainer whose cup is always half empty. While Mother Teresa had a

terrible childhood she had a highly successful life by caring about other people. The lesson is that the most important contributor to happiness, success and joy in adult life is love and connection. The second greatest contributor is an individual’s involuntary coping styles. So basically, we can be happier, adapt and cope with life’s challenges that will endlessly come, as part of the human condition, when we promote growth by connection and adopt optimistic practices like loving unconditionally. Wishing you more love, happiness & peace. Happy Christmas & Happy New Year! Mrs Claus xx Peace & Happiness Ambassador www.TheSantaSchool.com www.HowCaniBeHappy.co

Looking for that “something different” gift for Christmas? Check out our extensive range of jewellery, crystals, books, essential oils and art work. Gift certificates are available to use for giftware, healings, workshops and the cafe.

Abitza Cafe, Healing Centre & Giftware

...and then explore our extensive cafe menu. Offering a wide variety of vegan, gluten free, vegetarian, raw, traditional and paleo meal options.

56 - 58 Main St, Upwey Vic 3158 (03) 9754 6850 www.abitza.com.au

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015

Learning to Eat Again Learning to Eat Again is an initiative from the collaboration of Knox City Council and Coonara Community House to assist people with food intolerances, or may have family members effected by food intolerances. The workshops are fun and supportive, allowing groupsharing information on food ideas as they eat a prepared meal by tutor Nicole Kirkwood.

Chocolate Brownies

Each session explores a different food intolerance, showcasing a meal and recipes that are free of that intolerance. So far this year we have covered Gluten free - Dairy/lactose free - FODMAP (fructose) - and diabetes. Christmas and Easter? No need to miss out! - As we have workshops to cover food options for those holidays too.

These recipes ar Lactos e e& Gluten free

Ingredients 120 g / 4¼ oz butter 160g / 5¾ oz soft brown sugar 2 eggs 125 ml / 4 fl oz single cream Tbsp maple syrup 1 tbsp glycerine 225g / 8 oz gluten-free self-raising flour, sifted ½ tsp gluten–free bicarbonate soda’ 425g / 15 oz banana, mashed Frosting 55 g / 2 oz butter, softened 125g / 4 ½ oz cream cheese 375 g / 13 oz icing sugar 4 tbsp maple syrup, plus extra to serve (optional) Method 1. Preheat oven to 180oC. Line a 12-hole muffing tray with paper muffing cases.

A Bright Future for Upper Ferntree Gully

Below are some recipes we have tried and tested… which were absolutely beautiful!

Banana Muffin with Maple Cream Frosting

Ingredients ¾ cup cocoa powder 1 tsp instant coffee 1 ½ cups sugar 180g (6 oz) butter, melted 4 extra large eggs 2tsp vanilla extract ¾ cups quinoa flour 2 tsp gluten-free baking powder Pinch of salt 1-cup walnuts, chopped 1-cup chocolate chip (check if gluten-free) Icing (confectioners’) sugar, for icing Method 1. Preheat oven to 180oC and lightly grease a 24 cm (9 ½ in) square non-stick baking tin. 2. Sift cocoa into a bowl and stir in the coffee and sugar. 3. Whisk together the butter, eggs and vanilla then slowly mix in the cocoa and sugar mixture. 4. Sift the flour with the baking powder and slat, add to the chocolate mixture and mix until thoroughly combined. 5. Fold in walnuts and chocolate chips and pour into a prepared tin. Give the tin a good tap on your kitchen counter to release any air bubbles before pacing in the oven and baking for about 25 minutes. 6. Cool in the tin before turning out. Dust with icing sugar before cutting.

Everyone who comes enjoys the company and the access to information shared - of local shopping venues to access ingredients, restaurants that are sympathetic to food intolerance, and other hints and tips to help steer along the food intolerance road.

Buttermilk & Sultana Scones

2. In a food processor, process the butter and soft brown sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs and then slowly mix in the cream, maple syrup, glycerine, sifted flour and bicarbonate of soda. Fold in the mashed bananas. 3. Divide the mixture between the paper cases and bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 12-30 minutes until well risen and golden. Remove from the oven and place on a wire rack to cool. 4. To make the frosting, process the butter, cream cheese, icing sugar and maple syrup until fluffy in a processor. 5. Place the frosting in a piping bag and pipe the frosting onto each muffin when completely cool. Serve with maple syrup if using.

Photographer: Darren Clarke Ingredients 200g / 7 oz gluten-free wheat-free plain flour, sifted, plus extra for dusting 50g / 1¾ oz rice flour, sifted 3tsp gluten-free baking powder 2tsp xanthan gum 20g / ¾ oz icing sugar 50g / 1¾oz butter, cubed plus extra for greasing 250ml / 9fl oz natural yoghurt 50 ml / 2fl oz buttermilk 50g / 1 ¾ oz sultanas 1 egg, beaten, for glazing Method 1. Preheat the oven to 200oC / 400oF / gas Mark 6. Grease a large baking sheet and line it with baking paper. 2. Sift the flour, baking powder, xanthan gum and icing sugar into a large bowl. Add the butter and, using your fingertips, rub it into the dry mixture until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. 3. Add the yoghurt, buttermilk and sultanas, and mix to form a soft dough ball. 4. Knead the dough on a floured surface and roll out to a thickness of approximately 2-3 cm / ¾ 1¼inch. Cut out 8-10 rounds with a scones cutter and place on the baking tray. Brush each scone with the beaten egg to glaze. 5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until well risen and golden. Remove from the oven and leave to cool on a wire rack.

By Cr Karin Orpen If you love Upper Ferntree Gully, you’ll want to be part of a major new Council plan being written for the area. Draft Vision When you visit Upper Ferntree Gully town centre, you see a vibrant and friendly centre serviced by a range of community, employment and recreational opportunities connected by safe walking and cycling paths, and public transport. What will the plan include? A vision for the future of Upper Ferntree Gully, guidance for new development, as well as ideas to improve how people access, use and move around Upper Ferntree Gully. What’s been happening? Over the past few months, Council has been talking with local residents and business operators as part of the research to help put together a draft Vision for the future of Upper Ferntree Gully. Council has held eight engagement sessions with the local community to help understand what you value about Upper Ferntree Gully and what the aspirations are for the future. Key suggestions to come out of the information sessions were the

community’s desire for a town centre or meeting place, access improvements and some form of gateway icon to signify its proximity to the Dandenong Ranges. Council has also conducted research on the local economy, growth projections, traffic and transport issues and the environment, to help understand the issues currently impacting on Upper Ferntree Gully and opportunities for the future. To bring all these elements together requires further consultation with other government authorities including Angliss Hospital, VicTrack, VicRoads, Parks Victoria and traders. What’s happening now? Council is putting together the draft Upper Gully Strategic Plan document and completing the Streetscape Masterplan. So if you are interested in how Upper Ferntree Gully should look, feel and be, now and into the future, register your interest to be kept informed. Visit knox.vic.gov.au and search Upper Gully Plan. For further information, contact Justin Schreuder on 9298 8000 or email FTG@knox.vic.gov.au

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015

Foothills Village Protection Upheld

Fines – What you need to know

Council’s recommendation for interim building height controls approved

By Kim Hubber, Financial Counsellor - EACH Social Community Health

“Until now, generic height policies existed in these Villages, which meant that building development that didn’t suit the needs of local community and business—or fit the environmental context—may have been possible.

Knox Council is pleased with the Minister’s announcement that the interim building height controls of 7.5 metres have been approved for the commercial and business zoned land of Upper Ferntree Gully, Alchester Village and The Basin. Amendment C130—recently approved by Planning Minister Matthew Guy on the eve of the State Government’s caretaker period—will impose an interim mandatory maximum building height limit of 7.5 metres in these neighbourhood activity centres. Once the approval of interim building height controls come into effect, it means that any build cannot exceed 7.5 metres until permanent building height controls have been developed with the community. These interim controls come after more than a

year of lobbying by Council, which has rallied for the opportunity to consult with the local community and businesses on the future aspirations of these Villages. This process will then inform the preparation of unique built form controls that support achieving the future aspirations. Dobson Ward Councillor Karin Orpen said while the approval was announced by Planning Minister Matthew Guy before the upcoming State Election, Council was hopeful the formal approval of Amendment C130 would be supported by all parties and candidates. “Council is pleased that the Minister has announced the approval of interim 7.5 metre building height limits which it has desperately fought for,” Cr Orpen said.

“Council applied for these interim height controls early last year and it is great to receive a good result for these well-loved Knox villages.” A building height control of 8 metres was revealed as the preferred height through the community engagement process for the Ferntree Gully Village Structure Plan due to the higher ceiling heights associated with commercial/ mixed used development in commercial zones. “Council takes planning for the City of Knox extremely seriously, as evident through its current work to develop a new strategy for housing, a structure plan for Upper Gully and built form controls for Alchester and The Basin,” Cr Orpen added. “These interim controls are needed to protect the Foothills from inappropriate development until the above mentioned work can be completed.”

There are many types of Infringement Notices including: • Parking tickets • Traffic infringement notices • Fare evasion tickets • Littering fines • Fines for not wearing a helmet • Fines for public nuisance or offensive behaviour To find out if you have an outstanding infringement, contact the Infringements Court (Civil Compliance)

Phone: 9200 8111 (Infringements) or 9200 8222 (Enforcements or Sherriff Warrants) Mail: Civic Compliance Victoria®, GPO Box 1916, Melbourne VIC 3001 Web: www.fines.vic.gov.au What to do if you can’t pay by the due date First – check if the fine is yours or if you want to dispute it

Options: • Transfer the fine to the other party by completing the form sent with the fine • Write to the issuing agency and appeal the fine, list your grounds for review, ask the agency to reconsider, cancel or change the fine to a warning • Appeal to court if your request for review fails If the fine is yours and there are no grounds for dispute: • Ask for extra time to pay • Ask to pay by installments – you can use Centrepay if you receive a Centrelink payment • A reminder notice will be sent giving a further 28 days – extra costs added • Fine will be referred to the Infringements Court system - An Infringement Notice will be issued -additional costs • An Enforcement Order may be issued – extra costs • A Warrant may be issued-extra costs –and the Sherriff may contact you to: • Arrange a payment plan • Sherriff may take assets (not basic household goods)

• Sherriff may arrest you – ask about community work Other consequences include that your driver’s licence or registration maybe suspended or not renewed, and your car may be wheel clamped. NB: If you pay the amount outstanding on an infringement warrant, the matter is finalised. There may be instances where there were special or exceptional circumstances occurring at the time the fines were incurred – if you think this may apply to you – seek advice. Good information and guidance is essential. Ask for help: A financial counsellor or community legal service or legal aid can help you.

EACH Financial Counselling (03) 9871 1817 or 1300 00 3224

Learn to Dance Club Latina at Kenlaurel Dance Studio

www.tlcbirthandbeyond.com.au

Salsa Waltz Street Latin

1st floor, 1288 Burwood Highway, Upper Ferntree Gully info@tlcbirthandbeyond.com.au (03) 9758 6239

6 Janesleigh Rd, Upper Ferntree Gully

Conception Pregnancy Early Parenting

Rock N Roll Cha Cha Ballroom

Private and group lessons available Bridal dances specially choreographed Opposite National Park Entrance

9758 1376

The Foothills, December 2014 - February 2015

featuring

Katie Noonan, Fatai V, Daniel Kelaart & Emma Pask with special guests

the Australian Navy Band, Peppa Pig & Dora the Explorer

Saturday 6 December 2014 at Wally Tew Reserve, Ferntree Gully

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program 4pm Carols by Candelight 8pm

Principal Sponsor

Proudly supported by Knox Mitsubishi, Channel 7 and QUEST Apartments.