Mail - Ferntree Gully Star Mail - 13th July 2021

Ferntree Gully Belgrave

Storm clean-up continues

Beauty in the sky

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Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

Mail Rangers fall just short SPORT

A Star News Group Publication

PROPERTY GUIDE Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808

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Home’s nine lives

By Taylah Eastwell After counting the 20th tree fall on the night of the storm, Mandy Williams gave up counting.

Sitting in her Monbulk loungeroom on the night of 9 June, with husband Spence nearby, Mrs Williams watched anxiously through her skylight windows as the tree tops “whipped around” in the gusty bursts of wind.

“It was dark so you couldn’t really see anything, but I could see the tree tops against the night sky. Between all the rain and then all the leaves and branches that blew onto the roof, there was lots of noise, and then of course the trees started to fall down,” Mrs Williams said.

“You could just hear them go thump. One fell and clipped the roof just outside where I was sitting but I thought it was just a branch.

When I got up the next morning, it was a 45-metre tree and it just missed. Had it of been a bit taller, it would have got the house,” she said.

With their Rankins Road property one of very few still full of trees, Mr and Mrs Williams woke up on Thursday (10 June) to absolute destruction.

They had between 70 to 100 trees down on their property alone, with the view of trees from their back deck now a clear view of the neighbouring fence line as fallen trees cover the ground.

“We woke up and couldn’t get out the door.

We could see a lot of it off the back deck, and we just had no idea where to start,” Mrs Williams said.

“I have always whinged I needed a bit more of a view and a bit more sun, so there is a positive,” Mrs Williams laughed.

Continued page 5

Mandy and Spence next to the huge tree that luckily fell in the opposite direction to their house.

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NEWS

Cycling is a family affair

By Taylah Eastwell A Belgrave South grandfather is looking forward to a “very special” ride, gearing up to tackle the Great Victorian Bike Ride alongside his son and grandsons later this year.

81-year-old Martin Peeters will ride a 537-kilometre route through the Grampians with his son Simon and his grandsons Alex (15) and Josh (19) this November as part of the 37th annual Great Victorian Bike Ride, the biggest multi-day ride in the southern hemisphere.

For Martin, the chance for three generations to join each other on the trip is something he is really looking forward to.

“It will be very special, I’ll really enjoy it,” he said.

“They will love it too, because the logistics of it all are just unbelievable,” he said.

The nine-day bike riding holiday is broken up by a bit of fun, with riders camping with around 3,000 other cyclists at the end of each day. Starting in Rainbow on Saturday 27 November, riders will travel through the picturesque countryside of Brim, Horsham, Halls Gap, Dunkeld and Pomonal before finishing in Great Western at Seppelt Winery - averaging around 80km each day.

Having completed the 2008 and 2009 Great Victorian Bike Rides, Mr Peeters is eager to do it all again.

“There are all these tents on a local reserve, they give you breakfast in the morning, there’s showers, toilets and they set up a little bar so you can have a drink after the race. It’s all run by volunteers and they cart your tents to the next destination so you don’t have to cart it on your bike,” he said.

“It’s a once in a lifetime experience and it’s something you don’t want to miss out on,” he added.

Bike riding is something Mr Peeters has al-

Three generations, Simon (left), Martin (middle) and Alex (right), all gearing up to complete the Great Victorian Bike Ride this November. 243083 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS ways enjoyed, having taken up racing at just 16-years of age when his family came out from Holland.

“We came from Holland in 1956, me, mum, dad and all 10 kids. I turned 16 on the boat coming across. When we landed here we got on a steam train and I got a job in Melbourne.

I was going to church one Sunday when I bumped into a chap who had come out three years earlier, he asked if I’d like to come for a bike ride and I said I’d love to. We finished up riding up in the Dandenongs, he had trouble keeping up with me,” he said.

“I finished up joining a Dandenong professional bike riding club, unfortunately I didn’t know the difference between the professional and amateur club so I’d joined the professionals, and then at the end of the year I found out there was an amateur club, but I didn’t mind, I enjoyed being a professional,” he laughed.

“That’s the best thing I’ve ever done in my life. I raced with them for about six years and then went back when they started the veterans club when I was about 35.

Mr Peeters used to ride his bike to work from Belgrave South to Springvale two or three

times a week, so training isn’t really something he’s too fussed about.

“Fortunately I’ve always been riding my bike and racing, so I don’t have to train, I’ve just got to try and get my son and my two grandsons to train together,” he laughed.

The ride will traverse through the Grampians National Park and a number of art silos. It will also include a ride out of Horsham to arts hub Natimuk and a rest day in Halls Gap, offering the full chance to slow down and see Victoria from the seat of a bicycle.

For more information visit greatvic.com.au.

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re removing 75 dangerous and congested level crossings, with 46 already gone. We’re also continuing works to prepare for major construction on North East Link.

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions Lilydale Line

From 9pm 16 Jul to Nov Mooroolbark Station closed From 8.30pm 19 Jul to 24 Jul

Ringwood to Lilydale

In Jul

Lanes closed at times

Greensborough Road

In Jul

Lanes closed at times between Lower Plenty Road and Watsonia Road

Maroondah Highway, Lilydale

9pm 16 Jul to 7am 17 Jul

Closed between Cave Hill Road and Anderson Street

17 to 26 Jul

Closed at times between Cave Hill Road and Anderson Street

Manchester Road, Mooroolbark

9pm to 7am each night, Left lanes closed between Winyard Drive 19 to 25 Jul and Mount View Parade

John Street, Lilydale

19 to 26 Jul

Closed between William Street East and William Street West

William Street East, Lilydale

From 9pm 19 Jul to 26 Jul

Closed between Maroondah Highway and John Street

MTIA5885

Bulleen Road

12502820-DL29-21

Road disruptions: Closed roads and lanes

Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

2 MAIL

| Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

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NEWS

IN BRIEF

‘Button Man’ horror

By Taylah Eastwell Two Hills filmmakers have created a horror film based on a series of eyewitness encounters with a ghastly bushman said to roam the Victorian High Country.

A number of stories have come to light over the years about a mysterious loner known as The Button Man, said to have earned his nickname from his habit of cutting buttons and ear piercings out of deer antlers.

Legend has it, the seasoned and territorial hunter has a base camp set up at a well-known crossroads in the Victorian Alps, allowing him to keep a close watch on campers and hikers entering the remote valley.

While you could read online for hours about the encounters people have had with the rugged bushman - who is described as around 70-years of age - one particularly hair-raising account comes from a wildlife photographer who was in the area taking shots near The Button Man’s headquarters.

The tale goes, when the photographer returned home from the High Country and downloaded photos he had taken onto his computer, he found a picture of himself sound asleep in his tent. To this day, no one knows who took the shot.

Others have taken to four-wheel-drive forum websites to report their own encounters, a common theme being The Button Man’s tendency to silently emerge in the dead of the night and grill people on why they are in the area.

Without retelling the myriad of personal stories, it is plain to see why Upper Ferntree Gully local Josh Todaro and Sassafras raised Jaime Lehman decided to create a horror film inspired by real life events flowing out of the eerie pocket of Victoria.

“I originally wrote a script for a haunted house film, until our OP suggested we do something more stripped back, low budget, that can be filmed in natural locations. He asked if I’d heard of The Button Man. I said, ‘no I haven’t, what the hell is that?’,” Josh said.

“He said ‘go home, Google it and call me later and let me know what you think’,” he said.

“That’s where it went down the rabbit hole.

There were a few articles and a few random eye-witness accounts. Some of the quotes people have said, the way he speaks, the way he looks, him appearing out of the blue but people feeling like they’ve been followed for days, that itself was pretty terrifying,” Josh said.

While there have been a number of suggestions that The Button Man was somehow involved in a number of disappearances in the Victorian High Country in recent years, that is not what the film intends to portray.

“I can’t think of any other story like it, where there’s this guy out there but everyone is sort of embellishing stories of his motive. Whether he’s linked to the mysterious disappearances or not, it’s kinda strange,” Josh said.

Josh said it was particularly interesting that The Button Man has taken “more of an urban legend status”.

“There might be eye witness accounts and facts about what he looks like but really the

Baby dies, woman under police guard A three-month-old child has tragically died after being hit by a train in Upwey on Sunday evening. The infant and a woman were both struck at Kumbada Avenue just after 5pm on Sunday 11 July.

The baby was flown to hospital with life threatening injuries but died several hours later. The woman was taken to hospital with life threatening injuries and remains under police guard.

A pram could be seen near the tracks while dozens of CFA, ambulance and police members rushed to the scene. Homicide squad detectives continue to investigate.

FTG arrests

Josh Todaro (left) and Jamie Lehman (right) have created a horror film inspired by tales of The Button Man. bulk of the story is this urban legend and people adding their own two cents to each story they hear,” he said.

“The crazy part is he is an actual guy. There is enough history to get you going but enough myth where you can play it up and embellish it,” he said.

The film is said to be a “blend of a few stories”, with the movie inspired by visions of what it would be like to come across an unknown character when you think you’re alone in the bush.

“The thought of going camping thinking your alone and it is fully dead silent and then all of a sudden you maybe hear some footsteps or get this sense that there might be someone else out there, I put myself in that position and just thought about what I would do in that situation, that’s what got the wheels turning,” Josh said.

“We don’t even need the big kills or action sequences, a very subtle glimpse of him in the background getting closer and closer and that suspense of the audience seeing him get closer without the characters noticing was a very easy thing to pull off. I wrote the script in two days,” he said.

Josh approached well-known Aussie actor Don Bridges to play the role of The Button Man, with the story centering around two sisters who go away on a camping trip to the High Country.

“I tried to imagine what this guy looks like in my head, eye witnesses say he is around 70 with longish hair, so I immediately thought of Don Bridges. We just lucked out with the cast,” Josh said.

The 30-minute short film was shot entirely in the Dandenong Ranges, including on Josh’s relatives property in Mt Dandenong.

Since releasing the trailer on Sunday 4 July, the response has been overwhelming.

“We clocked 11,000 views in two days and have around 1000 followers on Instagram.

Knowing it had been a hot topic in the media I knew that it was going to start some sort of

conversation. We’ve had lots of messages of support, one person said her and her friend grew up in the High Country and have been saying for years there should be a film on The Button Man,” Josh said.

With the film idea sorted, Josh approached mate Jamie to help piece the project together.

Jamie said he was “pretty keen to jump on board” as he knew the story really well.

“I do a lot of hiking and stuff in the country so it was right up my alley,” Jamie said.

As an avid videographer and photographer, Jamie helped to film and edit the movie.

“I’ve heard he’s just a normal, nice guy but the mystery behind it all is still very interesting,” he said.

For Jamie, some of the biggest challenges in producing the film were budget and finding local locations to shoot that resembled the mountain terrain of the High Country.

“I found locations in the High Country to shoot and really had my heart set on filming there so it was really accurate, but a big challenge was getting the crew and cast out there and all the costs of having everyone away from Melbourne,” Jamie said.

“The majority is just green background anyway, so we stayed local and filmed it in the Dandenongs, but we did get some drone shots in the High Country for the establishing shots,” he said.

Josh said the film “leaves you wanting more”, with the low budget concept a snippet of what a higher budget feature film could be.

“We hope that this will be seen by the right people and get noticed enough that we can hopefully get funding to make the feature length version,” he said.

“But don’t let the running time fool you. The way we see it is it’s all killer, no filler.

The film will premiere in Melbourne in coming months and at a film festival before it finds a home online or on a streaming service.

For more information, visit @buttonmanfilm on Instagram or search Button Man Trailer on YouTube.

Four men were arrested in Ferntree Gully last week in relation to a drive-by shooting.

It is alleged a firearm was discharged into a residence on Black Gum Crescent, Cranbourne about 12.50am on Thursday 8 July.

A silver Mercedes is said to have fled the scene, with the police air wing observing the vehicle a short time later travelling through south-eastern suburbs. The residents of the property were uninjured.

It is alleged the vehicle was involved in a collision with a truck and another vehicle on the Monash Freeway near the Springvale Road exit. Fortunately, the drivers of each vehicle were uninjured.

The vehicle is alleged to have been stolen during an aggravated carjacking around 9pm on Wednesday 7 July.

The four males were assisting police with their enquiries.

Anyone with information or dash cam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Community safety forum Knox police are hosting a community safety forum on 20 July to discuss local crime, issues of community concern and community partnerships.

The agenda of topics will include crime prevention and response, including family violence, road trauma reduction, public order, youth and other topical issues.

Deputy Commissioner Rick Nugent and his team will lead the panel discussions, with the other panel members comprised of local police representatives. These will include Eastern Region’s Commander Clive Rust, Divisional Commander Superintendent Anthony Glenane, Knox Local Area Commander Inspector Jim Cooke and station managers from Knox, Boronia and Rowville police stations.

The panel will discuss what issues the local area are encountering and how community agencies in partnership with local police are addressing them.

There will be also be some publicly available Crime Statistics Agency data presented.

There will be time allocated for questions from the audience. Some of the invitees as audience members will include local government, business representatives, local media and Members of Parliament.

Local community residents are also invited to the forum to participate in discussions.

Seating is limited so if you are interested in attending please email the Officer in Charge Knox Police Station at knox.uni@police.vic. gov.au.

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Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

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MAIL 3

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with FOCAL POINT author and Community Chaplain Graeme Dawson

What is something people don’t know about you?

I’m a romantic. I write poetry and dislike singleness atm. I was a builder for 26 years, with display homes in Doncaster. I had Appaloosa Horse Studs in Victoria and Tasmania, and had dairy and beef farms in both states. Then through a traumatic life event, God called me to study for the ministry and counselling which I have been doing now for almost 40 years. I am now in my 18th year writing in the ‘Mail’ and ‘Star-Mail’ papers.

What was your most memorable moment?

Why? Over the years having love reciprocated – see above.

What do you love most about the Yarra Ranges?

Green, peaceful, pollution free – my Garden of Eden.

What event, past, present or future would you like to witness?

The birth of my three children.(Men were banned from the birthing suite in those days) Favourite book or movie?

Apart from the bible, Long Walk to Freedom: Nelson Mandela.

Movie: The Man from Snowy River.

Which four guests, dead or alive, would you invite to a dinner party?

Jesus, C.S.Lewis, Johnny Cash and the Rev. Dr. Harold Taylor What are your hobbies?

As a teenager it was swimming: achieving in lifesaving, the Bronze Medal and the Bronze Cross. Although I have had horses most of my life, pack horse trekking was the thing in later years (A Mate and I have trekked on the BNT from Healesville to Khancoban in NSW), oil on canvas painting and gardening have also been part of my life for a long time.

THREE … healthy mindset from Headspace

1

Get in to life The activities you make time for have a big impact on your head space. When you spend time doing things you enjoy (or used to enjoy), it can give you relief from hard times, and build some fun in your life. Likewise, when you set and complete small tasks (like homework or giving back to your community) it can help to create a sense of accomplishment and meaning.

2

Learn skills for tough times There’s no doubt about it - life can be really hard sometimes. From relationship issues, to work and study stress, to simply feeling low - we all go through stressful and emotional periods. When this happens, our coping strategies kick in - things we’ve learnt over time to help us feel better.

Some people naturally use ways of coping that are helpful - like journaling, meditation or talking with friends.

3

Create connections Healthy relationships are super important for mental health.

When you spend time with people you care about you feel connected and supported. And yet relationships aren’t always easy.

But here’s the thing - the more you work on relationships, the stronger they get.

Graeme Dawson is a keen horseman.

What was your most embarrassing moment?

Post op, an in-hospital anal explosion on the shower seat, and to have to watch the nurses clean the mess.

What was your favourite subject at school?

Wood work in primary school and building construction in secondary, then as a building apprentice, I won the Florence M. Taylor Award for best apprentice in Victoria in 1962.

CHECK IN NOW

CHECK IN EVERYWHERE EVERY TIME Victoria, every one of us needs to check in, everywhere, every time.

Checking in helps us stop the spread of coronavirus, and protects our businesses, our communities and each other.

So, let’s all check in. Everyone. Everywhere. Every time.

For more information visit CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12502949-JW29-21

4 MAIL

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Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

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NEWS

Helping hands for the hills

By Taylah Eastwell In the Hills, heroes don’t wear capes.

They wear fluro vests, accessorised only by safety goggles, muddy workboots and a trusty, well-oiled chainsaw - and they’d probably prefer the more humble title of ‘volunteer’.

A group of these selfless, high-vis wearing volunteers have worked tirelessly over the past few weekends to help clear trees on properties across the Dandenong Ranges following the wild storms on 9 June.

Known as Help the Hills - Dandenong Ranges Taskforce, the group was established

by Emerald firies who realised the extreme levels of “damage and carnage” on local properties after responding to callouts on the gusty night of the superstorm.

Emerald Fire Brigade captain and Help the Hills organiser Paul Yandle said the group was born after members “realised there were a lot of other people, particularly older and vulnerable people, that just had a mammoth task ahead of them trying to clean up”.

“Instead of a small crew of us going from place to place we thought, ‘why don’t we put something bigger and better together for the community’,” Mr Yandle said.

With one of the brigade members an avid IT guru, a Facebook page was formed, calling on community-minded volunteers to help clear trees, cut through fallen wood or drag branches off properties.

The group now has almost 1600 likes and has a reach of around 120,000, with many eager helpers and businesses travelling from near and far to help with the clean-up each Saturday and Sunday.

“The response from the community has been amazing the last three weekends. We’ve had about 250 people help out, on average around 50 or 60 each day,” Mr Yandle said.

“They are all just community volunteers and we’ve had some really good support from local machine operators with excavators and machinery. So many companies have offered their time, fuel and equipment to come out and help us, which we have really appreciated,” he said.

“These are eight to ten hour days out there on a chainsaw or dragging branches. The community spirit is just incredible.

The sophisticated operation works by residents filling in an online form, accessible through the Help the Hills Facebook page,

Many volunteer hands making light work of a huge fallen tree. which alerts the voluntary crews of the need for works at certain properties. Jobs are then categorised in an Excel spreadsheet to allow workers to be assigned.

Volunteers become involved by turning up at the “staging area” at Pepi’s Land netball courts, just off Beaconsfield-Emerald Road, where they register and receive a full safety briefing before being matched into working bee groups.

“Some people might have a chainsaw and others don’t but are happy to drag branches, so we group them up. CFA members conduct safety inspections to make sure the work area is safe before sending crews in,” Mr Yandle said.

CFA members from neighbouring brigades, including Belgrave South, Kallista, Drouin, and Pakenham have also been involved in maintaining safety during the working bees and liaising with residents.

“We’ve had about 85 requests for assistance

Picture: SHARON ROOKE

and we’ve got through about 45 of those so far. Some of these jobs are huge. Some have 19, 20 odd trees down. There is one property between Emerald and Monbulk that was hit by fire last season and have now been hit by the storm and they’ve got over 100 trees down,” Mr Yandle said.

Mr Yandle said emergency crews, council, contractors and utility companies did an “amazing job” clearing roads, restoring access and dangerous trees, but the Help the Hills taskforce goes beyond the front gate, helping residents tidy up their own properties.

The taskforce has had many helping hands in its short time of operation, including four wheel drive clubs, arborists, excavation companies and Disaster Relief Australia.

“We’ve had some fantastic support from Disaster Relief Australia, a national volunteer group made up of ex-service men and emergency service personnel. They’ve got some really great technical skills and volunteer their

time to help after disasters. They’ve got some arborists who helped us to do some technical jobs like dropping dangerous trees to get them on the ground so we can follow up,” Mr Yandle said.

An eastern suburbs based excavation company donated a 6.5 tonne excavator last weekend to help clear a property, and a tree solution company provided their time and expertise to dismantle a number of large, hazardous trees on Tuesday 6 July.

“Because we are CFA, the main focus of what we are trying to do is help people with mountains of green waste. We are very concerned about green waste around peoples homes come fire season. If you think about how many trees came down, it is a significant fire risk. We are just helping people get stuff from their property to their front nature strip, cutting branches into rounds, that sort of thing,” Mr Yandle said.

“Even a month on there is so much to do.

We haven’t really even put a dint in it yet,” he said.

Emerald and District Rotary are also on board with the initiative, having sorted out insurance cover for all volunteers.

Emerald Rotary Chair of Community Services, Emma Clark said it “became evident in the initial stages that there would need to be some insurance” to cover the vast operation.

“We checked with the board and got permission to extend our insurance, which meant that on the first weekend we were able to get this all up and running and provide our QR code for checking in, too,” Ms Clark said.

Rotary members have also taken to the ground to help with labour, while others delivered home-made sausage rolls and cakes to volunteers.

“It’s been a great to-and-fro partnership, it has just got bigger and better and there are so many connections being promoted with all sorts of groups. It is sad sometimes that it has to come to these situations for people to help each other out,” Ms Clark said.

But Mr Yandle says the CFA won’t be putting the chainsaws down for a while yet.

“We will keep going as long as the volunteers keep coming,” he said.

Anyone interested in volunteering their time is encouraged to check the Help the Hills - Dandenong Ranges Taskforce Facebook page and turn up to the staging area at the Emerald Netball Complex anytime after 8am any Saturday and Sunday.

Monbulk couple face devastating storm clean-up From page 1 While finding a positive amidst the destruction isn’t easy, if there was ever a story of luck, it would have to involve the Williams.

Their home survived a bushfire sparked by lightning strike in 2019, with many of the emergency service volunteers who attended after the storm remembering the property from the large blaze a few years back.

One tree, that just clipped the roof of the deck, had a bend in its trunk that went perfectly around their deck when it hit the ground. If it weren’t for the slight bend in that very tree, the deck would have been totalled.

Another “great big tree” just outside the front door had recently been trimmed by an arborist. The tree fell so heavily that its roots ripped entirely out of the ground, but thankfully, it fell away from the home.

“This house is like a cat with nine lives,” Mrs Williams said.

“It was a bit scary, but I didn’t feel my life was threatened, you were more worried for property than life I would say,” Mrs Williams said.

The Williams were blocked in their driveway from Wednesday night until Saturday (12 June) due to fallen trees, unable to call for help due to phone networks being down.

“We couldn’t do much at all, our phones were out so we couldn’t ring anybody. It wasn’t until the phones came back that we could ring the SES and say ‘can you come and cut us out?’,” Mrs Williams explained.

But despite the carnage on their property, mailcommunity.com.au

Spence and Mandy Williams have a much different view from their deck following the storm.

Monbulk residents Mandy and Spence Williams have between 70 and 100 trees fall during the 9 June storm.

and 11 long days without power, the Williams’ still consider themselves lucky.

“We were luckier than most because we have gas hot water and a wood fire, a lot of people had nothing, no heating, no cooking.

In that sense we were better off than many.

With no idea where to start, the Williams’ were grateful when one of Spence’s relatives saw the Help the Hills - Dandenong Ranges Taskforce on Facebook and suggested they get in contact.

“Because we had no power we weren’t

looking at Facebook to try and conserve power. I saw the group and filled their online form out. They got back to me and couldn’t come the first weekend due to it still being red-zoned but they came the following weekend and started clearing around the house,” Mrs Williams said.

“The next weekend they came back with the Disaster Relief Australia guys and an excavator and they’ve done a lot as well. Both groups have been absolutely brilliant because it’s just beyond us,” she said.

“They’ve basically cleared a 20 metre fire break now around the house. They said it was just too dangerous come summer with bushfires. There is still loads of work to do but it’s not as urgent.

“It’s so important to acknowledge how great they’ve been. They are just people that you don’t know and they’ve come to help us and we really appreciate that because it was just totally beyond us, we would have just been sitting here amongst the trees,” Mrs Williams said.

Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

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NEWS

Storm blows in wombats

By Taylah Eastwell A handful of loveable baby wombats have settled in nicely at a local wildlife shelter after recent storms shattered their leafy Hills habitat.

Emerald Monbulk Wildlife Shelter has been overwhelmed by the amount of wombats requiring care following June’s wild weather, leaving dedicated shelter operator Carol Seeger feeling “inundated”.

With an extra six furry mouths to feed, Ms Seeger believes the wombats have become displaced due to heavy rain flooding their burrows.

“I think the weather has been so bad that the wombats are getting misplaced and going under people’s houses because the weather has flooded their burrows, so they are trying to find somewhere dry and the babies get left behind,” she said.

The six orphaned babies were taken to the shelter by people walking in the bush who “found them wandering alone”, with Ms Seeger now committed to raising the wombat mob and expecting to have them for a few years yet.

“I usually have them for two years or more, it’s the same with kangaroos,” she said.

“They are on regular feeds of special milk formula. They are in a special animal room and then they will graduate to a bigger pen, they keep on graduating into bigger enclosures.

Ms Seeger said she believed “something dramatic had happened to the mothers”, whether it be a road kill incident or escaping the weather and leaving the babies behind.

“There has been an awful amount of wombats out on the roads around Emerald,” she said.

“Sometimes there is a baby left in the pouch and people don’t take them off the road, so it gets hit again, and then the baby dies too.

She encouraged drivers who come across a wombat that has been hit to “take them off the road and check the pouches”.

“If you don’t know how to do it, ring up local wildlife carers, vets or Wildlife Victoria.

Also, when people see a cross on a wombat, they can know it’s pouch has been checked,” she said.

With around 40 kangaroos and a number of other animals already at the shelter - such as feathertails, sugar gliders, ringtail possums, tawny frogmouths and a lorikeet - the cost of feeding everyone is high.

Ms Seeger self-funds the entire shelter, with the help of a few yearly grants from Bendigo Bank Monbulk and Wildlife Victoria, and support of Emerald Veterinary Clinic.

Shelter operator Carol Seeger has her hands full at the shelter after June’s wild weather wreaked havoc on the habitat of local wildlife. 243241

Six orphaned wombats find comfort in each other at Emerald Monbulk Wildlife Shelter after Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS becoming displaced during the recent storm. 243241

Ms Seeger has around 40 eastern grey kangaroos in her care. 243241

But with the specialised formula costing around $400.00 per bag, and only lasting around 3 weeks,, the carers are “burning through it”.

it will be such a great help,” Carol said.

Contributions can be made at: https:// au.gofundme.com/f/emeraldmonbulk-wildlife-shelter

Her volunteers recently set up a Go Fund Me. “It is absolutely fabulous because it is very financially draining. Just to cover the costs of the milk powder so I don’t have to worry about

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NEWS

Meeting recovery support

By Taylah Eastwell Yarra Ranges Council is hosting a series of business forums to give local business owners and residents a voice towards the multifaceted and ongoing post-storm recovery effort.

Concerned locals have filled halls and meeting spaces across the shire over the last fortnight to share their experiences both during and in the aftermath of the the superstorm on 9 June.

In Monbulk on Wednesday 7 July, council officials were joined by representatives from the NBN, SES, Bushfire Recovery Victoria, Victoria Police, Department of Transport (VicRoads) and the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions, among others, who each answered questions from the community on behalf of their agencies.

VICSES Regional Emergency Management Officer Alan Barnard gave an update on callout figures, and said the SES is now transitioning its work from immediate response to

ongoing recovery.

“During that night (9 June) and in the time after we’ve had four landslides reported in the area. Landslides vary from being a rock on the road through to something major. We’ve had 730 trees on power lines, 477 access issues and 95 people reported as trapped in their properties.

“We had four vehicles damaged on the night, one of which was a week old, completely written-off. That’s pretty scary when you consider the people had just gotten out of the car.

It wasn’t pleasant to be out there,” he said.

Mr Barnard said the SES have set new parameters and raised their “trigger levels” so crews will be on standby ready for similar future weather events.

A spokesperson from the Department of Transport (DoT) said hearing from the public at the council-run meetings was useful in guiding the agency on where to prioritise works.

The DoT is aiming to return to a “business as usual” model by the end of the week by re-

moving traffic blocks, but workers will remain on the mountain for some time to repair damaged pavements, sign posts and clear drains full of debris.

Business owners expressed concerns about telecommunications, with some unable to contact staff on the morning following the storm and others unable to operate due to Eftpos machines being down for days.

Babaji’s Kitchen owner Billy Crombie said the original messaging telling people to stay away from the Dandenong Ranges was damaging for Hills suburbs that weren’t as hard-hit, like Belgrave.

“I guess people associate Belgrave with Puffing Billy and the Dandenong Ranges so that meant we were having so many table cancellations, people ringing up asking if it’s safe, social media was full of messages from people asking they could come up,” Billy said.

“Belgrave was fairly untouched. It didn’t get the destruction so Belgrave was operating as normal and it was deserted. We rely on people

from the suburbs to come up and enjoy the Hills and they weren’t coming because that stay away messaging was so wide,” she said.

Billy said Yarra Ranges Tourism changed their messaging after a few local groups contacted them. They instead put out a route that tourists could travel without visiting or travelling through the unsafe, storm ravaged townships.

“It’s not all about money and I will do everything I can to support this community but you’ve just come out of several lockdowns, in school holidays when you’re supposed to be busier, there’s been a storm which has been devastating but your township is ok, you have to be proactive and tell people the situation,” she said.

Yarra Ranges Council and various other agencies recorded comments made by members of the public to help shape recovery efforts in coming months.

Forums were also held in Upwey, Lilydale, Healesville and Yarra Junction.

Employers do their bit as staff turn out on front line

By Taylah Eastwell Hours before the worst of the storm hit the Ranges, Emerald SES volunteer Louise Draper was already down at the unit raring to go.

But when the gusty winds reached their peak, it was like nothing she’d experienced before.

With the Hills unit receiving as many calls for assistance in one night as it would typically see in a year, Louise was on the frontline triaging calls and organising jobs until the sun came up the following morning.

Volunteers across the Yarra Ranges likely have similar stories from the horror night, but one point of difference is the fact Louise’s employer gave her immediate, fully paid leave - allowing her to continue helping the community in its time of need.

“I got to the unit around 6pm on the Wednesday night (9 June) and was helping man the incident control area where calls were coming through from triple zero (000).

We were calling people back to check on them and organising where to send trucks,” Louise said.

“We couldn’t get home that night because it was so dangerous so I stayed overnight. I sent a message to my boss at 10.30pm and just let him know I wouldn’t be able to come in because I was going to have to work all night. He just said ‘that’s fine, good luck, let me know how you go’,” Louise said.

With just three hours sleep, Louise continued her SES work throughout the following Thursday (10 June), helping with countless jobs across the mountain.

Louise is employed as a risk and compliance consultant with Olympus Australia, a medical manufacturer based in the suburbs.

The support from her employer helped ease her stress after the tumultuous night.

“It was really nice and very easy and meant I could continue working to help the community,” she said.

“For me to take a day off meant there were so many meetings that needed to be rearranged so there were just so many people it affected, but they just said ‘go do what you need to do’. It was really nice for people to reorganise their days, and I got paid. In a big business, we’ve got critical decisions to make, so I think that is just amazing support that with no notice I’ve asked for a day off and everyone has been flexible,” Louise said.

And after the disastrous night, Emerald SES were grateful to have all hands on deck.

“We had a lot of people driving that would have one tree fall in front of their car and another behind their car. We were trying to get crews to them while calling back other people just to make sure they were OK because it was very scary,” Louise said.

“We were trying to make sure of everyone’s welfare because they were only seeing what was in their area and didn’t know how dangerous it was. We took over 800 jobs on that night, the most we’ve ever done before mailcommunity.com.au

Louise Draper with her Volunteer of the Year Award she received from her employer, Olympus. was 400. I got there at 6pm and didn’t leave until 7am the next morning,” she said.

“It was very surreal. You don’t think of your own safety at that time. We thought we were safe but a tree could of fallen on us as well at any time, but you just had to get on.

There was a sense of urgency to make sure we were able to contact as many people as possible who were in a terrible situation to calm them down even if we couldn’t get to them immediately. We just ran on adrenaline all night,” she said.

“I am incredibly grateful to my employers. Without their support I would not be able to part of this amazing community that I am privileged to serve,” she said.

Louise said not all volunteers have the flexibility to take emergency leave, with some working all night on the frontline and turning up to work the following day.

“It’s been a busy month, but knowing I have the backing to be able to continue to do what I do best, and help my community,

has been the highlight for me and worth it all.”

Louise’s employer also awarded her a ‘Volunteer of the Year’ trophy and donated $500.00 to the Emerald unit.

Emerald SES Deputy Unit Controller Jessica Rice was also granted leave from her role as a Covid-19 event compliance observer with the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions to assist in the storm.

“I wouldn’t be here without the positive attributes of my managers at work. At a moment’s notice, to be able to drop everything so that I am operationally ready to help others, is everything to me as it allows me to do my bit,” Jessica said.

VICSES extended its thanks to employers of volunteers who allow them to devote their time to the community in emergencies.

“These are just two members with exceptional employers in both the private and public sector, who we thank endlessly. Without their support, our volunteers would not

be able to do what they do and provide a vital service to community,” an SES spokesperson said.

A Fair Work Ombudsman spokesperson said all employees, including casuals, can take community service leave for voluntary emergency management activities.

Employees are entitled to take community service leave while they are engaged in the activity and for reasonable travel and rest time. There is no limit on the amount of community service leave an employee can take, however notice must be given to the employer as soon as possible. This includes after the leave has started.

“Workers with concerns about their pay or entitlements are encouraged to contact us directly,” the Fair Work Ombudsman spokesperson said.

Further information on entitlements can be found at https://www.fairwork.gov.au/ leave/community-service-leave. The Fair Work Infoline can be contacted on 13 13 94.

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MAIL 7

NEWS

Machine operators hard at work.

The mountain has no shortage of firewood.

Storm clean-up continues A month on from the storm that devasted the Yarra Ranges on 9 June , the clean-up is far from over. Roads remain closed, trees remain down, but the spirit of the community is seeing everyone through. The Kalorama Refuge Centre is still full of donations of food and essentials, while volunteers shovel mulch and machines continue working to remove hazardous and fallen trees. The recovery is expected to take years, not months.

Star Mail photographer ROB CAREW found many signs of hope and resilience when he toured the hills on Thursday 8 July.

Signs and trees remain on the ground.

“Soup Angels” Kerry McGregor (left) and Leonie Scott serve warm soup at Kalorama Refuge Centre. 243142

Yarra Ranges Council have turned fallen trees into free mulch for residents to help themselves to at Kalorama Reserve.

Roads remain blocked and detours in place due to heavy machinery working on the mountain.

Heaps of fruit and vegetables still available for residents at the Kalorama refuge centre. 243142

A volunteer worker forgot his hat after a hard day hand-shoveling mulch for residents.

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Community hubs in Kalorama and Olinda to stay open Yarra Ranges Council has established two Community Recovery Hubs in Kalorama and Olinda, to provide ongoing support and assistance to local communities impacted by the recent storm and power outage.

Located at Olinda Community House and Kalorama’s Karwarra Garden, the hubs will be supported by a number of agencies, local organisations and volunteers. Mayor of Yarra Ranges, Cr Fiona McAllister said that the hubs would help with the changing needs of the community from immediate relief, to more medium and longer-term support.

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“A big heartfelt thank you to the people and community groups of Yarra Ranges who have provided support and relief to those who were heavily impacted by the storm and flood event,” Cr McAllister said.

“The outpouring of support has been wonderful, and I know it has really helped those in need, whether it be a hot meal, donation of much needed items, or even just someone to talk to.

“Feedback from the community meetings held so far and other correspondence with Council tells us that the ongoing needs from

the community will be diverse and varied.

“These hubs and our community links will provide a central location for people to reach out and find the support and information they need, no matter their circumstance.”

The hubs will provide information and support in the following areas: Mental health and wellbeing support Referrals for people needing access to temporary accommodation Social connection Financial aid

· · · ·

· Insurance support · AusNet claims · Business support · Clean up advice and support These hubs will be open seven days a week between 10am-4pm and will be staffed

by Council officers and other agencies.

Support will also be provided to other townships through Council’s Community Links at Yarra Junction, Healesville, Monbulk and Lilydale. More information on this will be available shortly. mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Finding beauty in the sky

By Taylah Eastwell A month on from the storm, as people try to get on with their lives, reminders of the devastation remain.

As a way of brightening the darkness, Mount Burnett Observatory is hosting a free event at the end of July to bring some beauty back into the lives of those affected by the superstorm.

Held at Emerald’s Chandler Reserve oval on 30 July, the event aims to demonstrate that even though the community were in the dark during the storms, darkness can be used to see something beautiful in our night sky.

Mount Burnett Observatory volunteer Petra Klein said the observatory committee really wanted to do something to give back to people in the Hills affected by the storm on 9 June.

“Lots of people were without electricity and internet after the storms hit, so the whole idea is to show that even in the darkness you can look up to the sky and find something beautiful and that in all of this sadness, there is still beauty,” Ms Klein said.

The family friendly event will feature live music, food and coffee trucks, an emergency service drone display and a number of children’s activities including astronomy-focused virtual reality (OzGrav and Astro3D from Swinburne), with the local football club allowing the group to use the building and grounds free of charge.

“We will have telescopes set up at stations with different things for people to see, so people can walk around. There is an educational aspect, so if they are looking through a telescope at Jupiter, the person at that station will

Mt Burnett Observatory is hosting a free astronomy event at Chandler Reserve, Emerald on Friday 30 July. tell them a little bit about Jupiter,” she said.

Ms Klein said there is a high chance viewers will get to see Saturn and Jupiter as well as a number of stars, clusters, nebulas, and galaxies.

“There is lots to see, not just planets and stars. In school you only learn about planets, but there is so much more up there,” she said.

The community stargazing night will run

from 7pm until 10pm.

Free tickets need to be obtained through the Mt Burnett Observatory Facebook page or website: https://mbo.org.au/

Victorian government clean-up program announced Yarra Ranges residents are encouraged to register for the Victorian Government’s storm and flood clean-up program which is being facilitated by Bushfire Recovery Victoria (BRV) as a result of the massive damage during the June 9 and 10 storm and flood event.

The free Victorian Government Storm and Flood Clean-Up program covers the demolition and removal of any structures on eligible private property that were destroyed or damaged beyond repair by the June 2021 weather events.

The Storm and Flood Clean-Up program is also accepting registrations for the assessment of dangerous trees on private property which pose a risk to a place of residence or personal safety.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Fiona McAllister said last week’s announcement of $8.2 million for ten impacted Councils, and this week’s announcement from Bushfire Recovery Victoria (BRV) about a new clean-up program were welcome news, but Council continued to work with recovery agencies to understand the municipality’s longer term recovery needs.

“While we understand the impacts from

the recent storm were widespread, the damage in Yarra Ranges was of a magnitude we have never experienced before from a storm,” Cr McAllister said.

“We’ve had flooding in some parts of our municipality, while in other areas, thousands of trees have fallen, leaving behind massive trunks, logs and debris that all need to be cleaned up before the fire season.”

Cr McAllister said the latest clean-up announcement from BRV would help respond to part of the problem, where people whose homes, sheds, businesses or vehicles were destroyed will be eligible to apply for the clean-up program.

Residents are encouraged to contact BRV to discuss their particular issue and to assess their eligibility for the program. BRV is also taking registrations for assessments of hazardous trees which pose a risk to a place of residence.

For fallen trees on private property that haven’t damaged or destroyed a structure, VicForests is offering to provide property owners with advice or an assessment on whether the material might be suitable to be used for timber products.

Cr McAllister said Council and BRV were aware other residents were facing the significant problem of removing massive trees that have fallen on their properties five months before the start of a fire season.

“It’s a complex challenge but one that isn’t currently being addressed with the current program being offered,” she said.

Cr McAllister said that Council and government agencies and services continued to assess the damage and impact from the storm across the municipality, and Council was focused on both the immediate needs and the longer-term support that would be required to help residents and businesses recover.

While significant progress had been made in the past four weeks, with many roads being cleared and power restored to most affected people, the damage was extensive and there was still much work to be done.

“This disaster comes on top of successive lockdowns that have left our communities reeling. Further damage inflicted on them by the recent storm, not to mention effects from the ongoing pandemic, could potentially be

felt for years,” she said.

“While the practical and financial support provided to community members and businesses so far through the State Government and the recent BRV announcement has been appreciated, we are continuing our discussions with the State and Commonwealth about the longer-term recovery needs of our municipality.”

“The Yarra Ranges is a much-loved part of Victoria, but at the moment, while many regions in the state are enjoying the benefits of an intra-state tourism boom as a result of Covid restrictions, there are many parts of Yarra Ranges unable to open up to visitors because of the impacts of this recent storm.

Cr McAllister thanked the hundreds of emergency services and relief agency personnel working alongside Council staff and community members that had provided much needed help to storm impacted communities.

For more information about BRV’s storm clean-up program, phone 1800 560 760 or to register for the clean-up or hazardous tress assessment, visit www.vic.gov.au/stormclean-up-program.

DELIVERING FOR LOCAL COMMUNITIES & FAMILIES AS WE GROW.

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SUFFERING EVERYWHERE! WHAT ARE OUR TROUBLED TIMES TELLING US? Christ’s return is drawing near!

“Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines, pestilences and earthquakes” Matthew 24:7 Learn what the Bible teaches about

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MAIL 9

BOOKS

From Russia to Mt Evelyn

By Mikayla Van Loon Jim McIntyre’s authorial career is nothing short of inspiring, drawing on lived experiences to write a 30-years-in-the-making novel.

Now the author is taking time to visit the Mount Evelyn Reading Room on Thursday 22 July to delve into the lives of Vassili, Anna and Helen from Nikolai the Perfect, as well as his own.

Partly set in Mount Evelyn, the influence of the Dandenongs’ scenery is just as profound as the Russian uprisings.

“The Dandenongs are an irresistible setting - you could almost say Gothic,” Mr McIntyre said.

“Manicured in parts, lush fernery, cascading creeks, majestic eucalypt forests, juxtaposed with surprising touches like tulip farms, German restaurants, Tudor guesthouses and that view of the city from Mount Dandenong Lookout in all weathers.”

But Mr McIntyre’s love affair with Russia began with its tumultuous history of revolution, as well as a love for authors Tolstoy, Chekhov and Solzhenitsyn et al, which he said grew into a fascination with perestroika and glasnost the rebuilding and openness of the USSR in the 1980s.

“Like many my age, I was worried about nuclear war. Gorbachev and all he stood for seemed the best chance to avert it,” Mr McIntyre said.

“Then, in 1992 on a whim, after spotting an advertisement in The Saturday Age, I booked myself a trip to Russia and Ukraine, started learning the language, made progress and decided to keep going.”

While in Moscow in 1993, Mr McIntyre experienced one of the most historic events in Russia, a counter coup of then President Boris Yelstin.

Trapped inside his apartment for five

Nikolai the Perfect follows Vassili as he travels from Moscow to Mount Evelyn with a mysterious wrapped package.

Jim McIntyre was runner up to Jane Harper’s The Dry in the 2015 Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for Unpublished Manuscript.

Picture: SUPPLIED days, Mr McIntyre watched on as demonstrators marched in the streets below, protesting against Yeltsin’s economic reforms and armed forces stormed Moscow’s White House, taking over the mayor’s office and attempting to seize the TV station.

“The 1993 counter-coup I witnessed wasn’t so much harrowing as eerie. I hope the corresponding scene in the book captures something of that,” Mr McIntyre said.

“I think it also put paid to my youthful po-

litical optimism that post-Soviet Russia was on the path to peace and democracy.”

Not quite done with Russia, in 1998 Mr McIntyre went back as an education agent for Swinburne University and spent four years living and working in Moscow.

Although much of his experiences in Russia may have influenced his novel, Mr McIntyre said his whole life has somehow had an impact on his writing of Nikolai the Perfect.

“Nikolai the Perfect feels like ten books bundled into one - drawing on all the major experiences in my life, preoccupations, observations,” he said.

“Although, as writers will, I also ransacked what I knew, or imagined, of other peoples’ lives. But even those parts were ultimately autobiographical, stemming from childhood loss, in ways I denied to myself until very late in the process.”

After taking a break from writing, Mr McIntyre has just recently gone back to writing his next novel about Nikolai Miklukho-Maklay.

Mount Evelyn Reading Room coordinator Liz du Toit said they are excited to hear Mr McIntyre’s experiences first hand.

“We love hosting author’s and we are particularly excited to be talking about a novel with a direct link to Mt Evelyn,” Ms du Toit said.

“Jim’s journey is very interesting and it will be wonderful to hear about his perseverance in getting his novel published.”

The Reading Room event is free but bookings are essential https://www.mtevelynch. com.au/course-detail.cfm?coursecode=JMI21

Novel takes readers on a slow build to a crescendo Sheerwater is the debut novel of Leah Swann, award-winning author, journalist, and chief speech writer for the CEO of World Vision Australia. While Swann is known for her critically acclaimed collection of short stories and a fantasy series for middle-grade readers, this full-length novel demonstrates her exquisite skills in weaving a gripping tale.

Sheerwater is not a book for impatient readers. Quite the opposite – although the story unfolds over just three days, it delves into the deepest corners of the minds of its characters and exposes them scratched raw and bleeding. Hence we have a slow but delicate read, full of details that sometimes remind this reviewer of Stephen King’s Rose Madder (1995).

The book has a seemingly cliched start – a woman and her two sons embarking on a road trip in an attempt to escape the violent,

PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN coercive control of her husband. Sadly it is a common theme these days, one that has been employed in too many literary genres.

But Swann still manages to blow your mind in Sheerwater by creating the most unbelievable plot twist.

Set along Victoria’s southern coast, the story begins with Ava driving and dreaming of a quiet new life with her kids when a light

plane crashes by the roadside. A trained rescuer, Ava has to stop and help, but it is in that process that her children somehow disappeared from the car. Have they gone wandering about? Did someone take them?

It is gut-wrenching to read Ava’s emotional and psychological trauma as her past is slowly revealed. While we never get to know her full story, it is her being tormented by her loss that tugs at our hearts. Swann is clever not to linger on what makes Ava the way she is, as the story sufficiently explains why an experienced emergency worker can be driven to near madness by her sense of grief, guilt and self-doubt.

The same deliberate omission of background information applies to the other characters, most notably Lawrence, Ava’s husband who is determined to make her suffer. Instead of telling us why Lawrence is dangerous, the story shows how manipula-

tive and fearsome he can be. Swann’s ability to strike straight at our emotional core is amazing, prompting us to almost forget and forgive the lack of answers about Simon as an important third character.

As the story slowly builds to a crescendo in the end, we are pushed to the edge of our seats. Again it is our emotional response that Swann seeks and seizes, and the quickening pace and the accumulation of tension and suspense is nearly unbearable.

In short, Sheerwater is an emotional read for dedicated readers, whose patience will be richly rewarded as they reach the last page.

Swann’s language is beautiful and captivating, and her capacity to use small details to shape both characters and circumstances is impressive. In this sense, we note the use of shearwater, the migratory seabird, as a symbol of the love, strength and sacrifice of a mother.

WINTER 2021

Fun winter

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PLAYGROUNDS Parents share their

SIDE HUSTLES Local couple’s

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Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

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SUPPORT YARRA RANGES

Buy, employ, enjoy local We all know that the Yarra Ranges is the best place to live, work and play, and perhaps no time has this been more evident than over the past 18 months. The incredible Yarra Ranges spirit shone with communities coming together to support each other and we spent more time closer to home, exploring our local surrounds and making new discoveries.

As we look to recover from the impacts of the pandemic and the recent storm and flood events, now more than ever it’s time to celebrate all that our wonderful region has to offer and to look for ways to continue to support local.

Buy |Employ |Enjoy Local is a Yarra Ranges Council initiative designed to put our community front and centre of our recovery efforts and daily life. We want to showcase everything we have right here in our own backyards. Did you know we have over 400 hairdressers in the Yarra Ranges? Or more than 22 local galleries?

From dentists to florists, new cars to secondhand books, butchers, bakers and even candle makers – you can find what you’re looking for right here in the Yarra Ranges.

Local businesses play a huge part in our communities. They keep our high streets thriving, give us the convenience of popping to the shops, and the thrill of finding something unique. They employ our family, friends and neighbours, support local schools and sponsor community groups. When challenges confront our community – be it pandemic, storm or flood – we’ve seen them at the forefront of relief efforts, raising money, providing food, coffee or a warm place to sit and recharge, even as their own livelihoods are impacted. Now it’s our turn to give back to them by choosing to Buy Local whenever you can.

To help local businesses to Employ Local, we’re launching the Yarra Ranges JobLink - an online employment portal for those who want

to live and work local. It’s free for both employers and jobseekers to sign up, and helps connect prospective employees with local employers.

For those looking to develop an exciting career in our vibrant hospitality and tourism industry, our Hospitality Jump Start for Jobs training programs are free for locals looking to gain professional skills and employment. Run in conjunction with our partners Cire Training and Box Hill Institute Lilydale, students are also connected to hospitality businesses looking for qualified staff.

When it comes to Enjoying Local, Yarra Ranges has something for everyone. From our

BUY local

pristine natural environment teeming with forests, rivers, lush valleys and wildlife, to our 55 unique townships, every pocket of Yarra Ranges has something to discover and enjoy.

Why not try a new playground or swimming pool, hiking or bike path, or perhaps a library or sporting facility? Keep an eye out for new Parklets popping up in townships across Yarra Ranges too. The parklets are happy relaxed places to catch up with friends over coffee, or just sit in the sun and enjoy a book. They’re designed to help reinvigorate communities – and you might even discover new favourite artworks created by local artists!

eMPLOy local

Across the year, the Yarra Ranges host hundreds of events celebrating all the region has to offer. Think art, food, wine, flowers, gardens, fun runs, markets – there really is something for everyone. And whilst winter may be dreary in other parts of the world, it is what we do best. Watch the mist lift over the valleys on crisp winter’s morning walk or enjoy a cosy evening by the fire at your neighbourhood pub or cafe. This winter, stay close and Enjoy Local.

Tell us how you #BuyEmployEnjoy Local?

Tag us on social media and share your favourite Yarra Ranges local experience.

eNJoy local

YA R R A R A N G E S As part of council’s recovery efforts, Yarra Ranges Council is launching Buy Employ Enjoy – a campaign created to encourage our community to choose local. We’ve been kind to each other, to business and to ourselves. Now it’s time to #BuyEmployEnjoy and support our local business and community.

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MAIL 11

NEWS

Homeless housing crisis SLEEPING ROUGH IN THE RANGES

By Mikayla van Loon Finding a long term home is difficult in the best circumstances let alone when facing homelessness.

And in the Yarra Ranges it is even more challenging to find safe, secure and stable housing when the prospects of social and public housing are minimal.

Anchor’s CEO Heidi Tucker said the homelessness crisis both in the Yarra Ranges and around, not only, the state but the country is related to the 80,000 Australians waiting for social housing.

“There is very, very little social housing in the Yarra Ranges, very little. There’s certainly not the availability for people who would want to live there, there is the occasional one but it’s very scarce,” she said.

“It’s related to the underinvestment in public housing for more than a decade in Victoria.

It’s also related to probably all the people falling through the cracks with mental health services particularly.

“I think there are a lot of people who have that dual diagnosis of mental illness and addiction, particularly to alcohol and I think it is fair to say in the last ten years the services in those areas have probably decreased and are under-represented in the Yarra Ranges.”

Ms Tucker said the part of the solution to the homelessness crisis is to provide permanent housing at an affordable rate.

“I would say that permanent housing is desperately needed and looking at state statistics, they show and I’m going to say I think Yarra Ranges has about 0.9 per cent of social housing from memory.

“Somewhere like the north, like Melton, anywhere between three and five per cent of the whole stock is social housing. So you’re very underdone in that area and have been for many years.”

Public housing is just part of the housing equation but Ms Tucker said emergency accommodation also needs to be a priority in the shire. “[The Yarra Ranges] doesn’t have any, it simply has none,” she said.

“We don’t have any crisis accommodation and we certainly don’t have a youth refuge, we don’t have a refuge type thing that you could just walk in and stay the night.”

Although Ms Tucker said churches play a big role in emergency accommodation, it is not widespread or known about by many people who need a place to sleep.

Part of Anchor’s role is to assess someone’s

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situation and help them find the next step, which includes offering them a night in motel accommodation if they have nowhere else to go.

“The caveat to this is that priority is always given to women and children and so the actual support available to a single male or a single female or a couple with children is very, very limited throughout the whole system, throughout Australia actually,” Ms Tucker said.

“If a woman and her children come in we will do everything possible to get them into shelter for the night, into a motel.”

And while those emergency shelters and accommodation solutions are important, Ms Tucker said it doesn’t help someone in the long term.

“Emergency accommodation is one thing and it is certainly part of a continuum of housing but it’s not the answer. So getting someone in for the night, ok that gives them a night of opportunity but in fact what changes people’s lives is actually a long term home.

“Just to rely on emergency accommodation might just mean a revolving door, if they’ve got nowhere to go to make their home, then it’s just a revolving door and we’re not really doing anything useful for anyone.”

Ms Tucker said often when people have nowhere else to go it’s because they are escaping violence and emergency accommodation will keep them safe for a night but getting them to

the next stage of transitional housing is what Anchor works towards.

Transitional housing is the transition between homelessness and long term accommodation in a social housing setting, where the cost of living in that home is only 25 per cent of a Centrelink benefit.

“While people are in transitional housing what we’re also trying to do with them is try and look at their other issues, possibly issues of addiction, family violence, children may have a disability.

“There’s often a lot of other issues that are travelling with people, with these families and individuals and we try to link them into other services.”

But linking people to those services can be challenging when they are not readily available.

Ms Tucker said the Yarra Ranges doesn’t lend itself to well placed services with a lack of public transportation and such a large area to provide for.

“When you look at these issues, they are complex. Things like public transport feeds into this, socio-economic status, jobs and availability of jobs, it all integrates together, coordinates together to cause these perfect storms at the other end.”

Another hurdle Anchor has been trying to overcome is the perception of the Yarra Ranges as the wealthy, leafy, winery region and the

Picture: SUPPLIED

idea that homelessness can and does occur in the area.

In trying to fix this, Anchor has been working with Yarra Ranges Council and the Salvation Army on a pilot outreach project to engage with rough sleepers in the Yarra Ranges.

“In the Yarra Ranges there does tend to be a lot of rough sleepers. You would think ‘city’ but in fact in the Yarra Ranges there’s lots of places for people to hide,” Ms Tucker said.

“I might admit that if I were homeless I’d probably want to be somewhere like the Yarra Ranges because it’s safer, you can go into the national parks or you can find little places to park your car if you live in your car, that sort of stuff, it is a lot safer than in the city.”

Anchor offers a number of services, whether that be providing funds to top up someone’s private rent or helping people apply for Centrelink payments they didn’t know were available to them.

Ms Tucker said people can self refer themselves for help but most of the time they are notified through Centrelink, hospitals and sometimes jails about someone in need of assistance.

For housing support services within Anchor, call them on 03 9760 6400, email openingdoors@anchor.org.au or visit them at Box Hill Institute - Lilydale Lakeside Campus, Jarlo Drive, Lilydale.

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12457333-DL33-20

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Rough sleeping is becoming more common in the Yarra Ranges which can be put down to a lack of social housing in the area.

12 MAIL

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Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

mailcommunity.com.au

OPINION

Free cat microchipping Animal Aid is a place of refuge for the lost, unwanted and abandoned animals in our community. We work diligently to reunite lost pets and give a first rate second chance to homeless animals. When an animal comes through our doors, we do our best to learn as much as we can about them. The very first thing we will do is scan them for a microchip – if they are ‘chipped and the owner’s details are up to date we are able to quickly and easily contact the owner.

When much loved pets arrive at Animal Aid, we can tell they have been well cared for and know their family will be desperate to have them home – yet they aren’t micro-

Animal

aid Mark Menze Animal Aid CEO chipped and the shelter team has no way to contact their family. With one simple procedure pet owners can ensure that if their pet is lost, they will be notified quickly and their

furry friend will be back in their arms in no time.

Last year Animal Aid received 2320 dogs and 2783 cats into our care. Of those, 75 per cent of dogs were reclaimed by owners, most within 48 hours. Sadly only 16 per cent of cats found their way home. This is largely due to the number of cats in our community lacking microchips.

When your cat is microchipped and your details are up to date, you can be sure if they go missing you will be in the best position to have them home safely. Having your cat microchipped is a legal requirement, moreover, it truly is the best thing to do for your peace of

mind and your cat’s safety.

Animal Aid is actively addressing the number of unidentified cats in our community by offering free microchipping for up to two cats/ kittens to residents of Yarra Ranges, Maroondah, Knox, Whitehorse, Murrindindi councils.

Our experienced veterinary team will deliver this quick and painless microchipping process within minutes, and you will have comfort knowing if the worst were to happen your cat would soon be back at home.

If your cat is not yet microchipped, please take up this free offer. Bookings are essential – please contact our clinic on (03) 9739 0500 to book or to enquire further.

Storm fright and flight ended with grief over losses Nightmares on the mountains During the night of Wednesday the 9th of June, many of us lay awake wondering and thinking as the winds raged. Wondering if the new pergola roof would lift, or in my case, wondering if the temporary carport over my caravan would hold or rip.

Then for some of us, there were horrendous crashing noises, followed by massive holes appearing in our rooves and rain soaking all our precious interiors.

Then the lights went out and we were stumbling around in the dark trying to find candles.

If we had elderly parents or children living with us, there was an urgent rush to see them safe – but where was safe?

We rushed to the car only to find it flattened by a huge tree and we can already see, even by torch light that the road was blocked anyway. YES – A NIGHTMARE. To make things worse, it had been raining solidly all that day and night, and in the

Focal Point Graeme Dawson morning, I gasped to find 120 Mil. in my gauge, the highest I had seen in Victoria since ’97 When daylight came, the enormity of the disaster struck. We could hear, but not see emergency teams with chainsaws trying to get through to us.

At this point, early as it was, with us trying to get our heads around the real loss, or losses, we didn’t know where to turn or what to do.

As a former grief counsellor, I would like to help you comprehend the validity of your responses.

Black Widow a middling superhero movie

Our loss and our grief responses Our first response was fright and flight, gathering our flock for safety and the second was disbelief, which turned into denial - then a type of bargaining. As if we could change what happened. “Why me?”– “Why us, we have only just moved in?” – “But the kids have suffered so much with the lockdowns”. Then despair sets in. “It’s too big for us to handle”.

Then a familiar neighbor arrives, and we sob. Not long after, the SES arrive with a community help van, and takes us to a hub where we get a change of clothes and a hot meal.

We are then likely to move to anger, which is a preservative driven by fear, and without wanting to cause more pain, snap at someone for whom it is too much.

“Damn wind and rain’, we yell – as if they have ears – VUTILE. Then as days go by in temporary accommodation we wonder if this nightmare will ever end.

In grieving terms, some losses have ongoing, never ending effects, e.g., a child born

with a disability, or a partner who has died and will never be coming back.

Yes for many, things will never be the same, while for others, they have the capacity to build new lives, but even those lives will have emotional scars in the heart and mind which can never be erased.

Even though the homes of the elderly who live alone are rebuilt, there will still be a fear, and a loneliness, that will be hard to assuage.

SUPPORT THEM. Some words to encourage from the maker’s Manual ‘When we don’t know how and what we ought to pray for, His Spirit helps us in our weakness and He intercedes for us with words we cannot express’.

I hope you can find some comfort in these words.

(Feedback, questions and need for support can be fielded to my email, csrsmokey@ gmail.com) Graeme Dawson B.Min Grad. Dip. CC. Chaplain to Community

CARTOON

Black Widow Starring Scarlett Johansson, Florence Pugh and David Harbour Rated M A Marvel prequel set before Avengers: Infinity War, Black Widow is a poignant character piece that flops on the action and finer plotting.

Former Russian super-spy Natasha Romanoff (Scarlett Johansson), aka Black Widow, teams up with her estranged sister Yelena (Florence Pugh) to battle the Red Room, the cruel institution that created them.

Johansson remains bold and elegant as Natasha, and Pugh is both compelling and endearing as Yelena, who has a steely persona offset by a bratty sense of humour.

The film’s core is a moving dynamic between Natasha, Yelena and their secret agent “parents”, as they reforge old bonds and realise the truth of their connection while living as a fake family undercover in America. The plot has some well-planted details which return in satisfying ways (something I always appreciate in film narratives), including a beautiful moment with Don McLean’s classic folk song American Pie. However, the mind-control-reversing gas driving the plot feels redundant when Natasha

broke free from the Red Room without it long before, and the climax has an irritating tendency to explain every twist with a brief flashback, diluting the impact.

The action is a let-down, often shot too close and shakily to follow, which is a common problem in modern Hollywood action, and the final explosive set-piece is bombastic but lacks tension because we already know Natasha survives to Infinity War. Black Widow is carried by its engaging performances and character writing, but the title heroine still deserved a better movie.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

LETTERS Eat plants, spare animals It was pleasing to see plant-based meals featured in the 6 July edition of the Star Mail.

Why pleasing? Because there is absolutely no justification for torturing animals for food. If you think I am exaggerating by using the word “torturing” please take a look at https://www. mailcommunity.com.au

animalsaustralia.org/ and click on ‘How laws are failing farmed animals’.

I’m sure many of us regard ourselves as animal lovers but if we eat animals - needlessly torture them - do we really love them?

Many of us “did it tough” in the aftermath of the recent storm. But what we endured was nothing compared with what factory farmed

animals are forced to endure every single day of their lives. If we felt compassion for those who were forced to go for weeks without power, please spare a thought for the innocent animals who are compelled to endure an entire lifetime of suffering simply to satisfy our taste for their flesh.

I wholeheartedly encourage readers to

help the wild animals who were injured or orphaned in the storm (Wildlife suffer in storm) but I also wholeheartedly encourage readers to help farmed animals by not eating them.

Surely a piglet is just as deserving of compasasion as a wombat.

Jenny Moxham, Monbulk Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

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MAIL 13

SHOP LOCAL MONBULK

Ozone wash special offer Monbulk’s Enviro Laundromat now has the Ozone system available.

The Ozone system uses electricity and oxygen to produce the most powerful antiviral disinfectant available for laundry technology according to Enviro owner, Carl.

It is a powerful oxidant, destroying all viruses, bacteria, chemicals and pesticides, says Carl.

“Ozone is more powerful to disinfect than using a bleaching agent and is exceptional at eliminating odours. It provides the best of fabric care for delicate items and vibrant colours whilst greatly reducing the environmental impact with no chemical residue.”

It meets the Australian Disinfection Protocols Standard AS4146/200.

“Ozone is a great consideration for all washes but especially for those delicate items or items that can only be washed in cold water, you will get the same result from a bacterial point of view as if it were washed in hot water.“ There is an additional charge of $2 when selecting the ‘Optional Ozone wash’ but for the remaining month of July 2021 the Ozone selection will be complimentary as an introductory offer for customers to try, given the storms disrupted the June trial, and is available in all washing machines. Simply select the Ozone wash and in the payment section and on the machine put in the code 98BPR. Enviro’s machines offer an exceptional wash in a clean, safe setting. There are multiple Heubsch washing machine ranging from 9kg through to 27kg meaning customers can take care of a week’s washing in 25 minutes.

Costs range from: 9kg or 2 basket capacity - $6 13.6kg or 3 basket capacity - $9 18kg or 4 basket capacity - $12 (use this ma-

· · ·

chine for queen or double Doonas)

· 27kg or 6 basket capacity - $15 (use this machine for king Doonas or 2 singles) · Ample 14kg and 20kg dryers. A typical load ·

in the dryer will take between 30-35mins to dry. A typical Doona will take between 40-60 mins to dry 14kg dryers are $1 for 8 minutes, 20kg dryers are $1 for 6 minutes “We don’t restrict customers to washing

and drying and welcome those that just want to use the dryer,“ explained Carl.

“We don’t allow our machines to be used for pet bedding or horse rugs, no one wants to wash their clothes after a pet bed has been in a machine. Our machines are only for your household clothing and bedding all the way through to accommodating commercial users such as B&Bs and commercial hotels.”

Carl says Enviro Laundromat is committed to a light environmental footprint thanks to

economical machines, low water use, natural gas hot water, natural gas dryers, LED lighting and the use of Rager biodegradable soap.”

Operating hours have been extended from 6am to 11pm 365 days a year. There is amply parking at the front of the laundromat and customers have a range of convenient payment options including card and Apple Pay. Find Enviro at shop 4, 37-39 Main Road, Monbulk. Follow Enviro on Facebook for promotions and special offers.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Enviro Laundromat Monbulk

• Full Menu available for TAKE AWAY OR DINE IN • Phone orders welcome • We would like to thank our local community for all the support

Located at Shop 4, 37-39 Main Road • The latest in washing technology with Huebsch machines • Ozone System wash available • Doona Specialist • Your weeks washing done in 25 minutes • Ample parking – conveniently located in woolies car park • Pay by cash or card • Multiple washing machine choice from 9kg through to 27kg • Ample 14kg + 20Kg Dryers • CCTV secure Premises

104 Main Rd Monbulk • 9752 0022 Mention this Ad to receive deal *condititions apply 12504064-JW29-21

Neat N Clean Dry Cleaners From Belgrave to Monbulk 116 Main Street - Monbulk

The most, economical machines lowering our footprint Ozone System Low Water Use Gas hot Water Gas Dryers LED lighting Rager Biodegradable Soap Your Safe Environment, Bright, Clean, Security Cameras, Self Exit Doors For health regulations we do not offer washing of pet bedding or horse blankets 12500781-JW29-21

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Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

$6.00

Friends on the Hill

The name Enviro has several considerations

14 MAIL

MED COFFEE & FRESH MUFFIN

50 yrs Dry-cleaning experience

• • • •

Experts in: • Soft Furnishings & Bridal Drapes catered for Debutante • Repairs & Evening Wear Alterations arranged Bedding…

Doonas, Blankets

Using the new

WETCLEAN SYSTEM Environmentally friendly using Crystal Clear H2o Water Based Cleaning Mon-Fri 7am-5pm Sat 8.30am – 1pm

Amber & Sasha

9754 3151 0418 547 484 bel_dry@telstra.com 12496902-HC24-21

mailcommunity.com.au

SHOP LOCAL MONBULK

Fun bowls and great food Like all hospitality venues, Monbulk Bowling Club has been hit hard by Covid restrictions and, more recently, the storm that smashed the Yarra Ranges in June.

Despite the setbacks, the team at Monbulk Bowling Club is back on deck serving great value meals and beverages in the club’s family friendly bistro.

General manager Brendan Cox encourages everyone to visit the popular club for a meal, join a bowling team or just drop by for a casual game of barefoot bowls and support this local business.

“The downstairs lounge/bar area was been

completely refurbished during the 2020 Covid-19 lockdown and now has a bright, modern feel,“ explained Brendan.

“It’s a great place to relax with a drink or meet up with friends for a meal.“ The bistro offers great food for the whole family. On Wednesdays enjoy the $15 parma special. Thursday is the bowlers special - a burger, beer and bowls for $25.

Kids eat free with a paid adult meal all week (kid’s meals only 12 and under). Upgrade the kid’s meal to include a kid’s drink, ice-cream and activity pack for $4.

There is also a seniors’ menu for those 60

and over and seniors’ specials.

At Monbulk Bowling Club you will be greeted by friendly staff, who will make your visit comfortable and relaxing.

“It is a place where you really get that small town, easy going feeling with enough space to cater for all sorts of catch ups from a few friends to large functions,“ said Brendan.

The club has been hosting bowls competitions for more than 55 years. Some bowlers are competitive and play lawn bowls for the challenge, while others prefer the social interaction and spending time outdoors. A game of bowls can be as competitive or as social as you

want it to be.

There are many opportunities for bowlers to enjoy lawn bowls in a social format, and where uniforms are not required.

Mixed social bowls each Wednesday afternoon (year round).

Mixed social bowls each Thursday night.

Mixed social bowls, pairs, each Saturday.

Barefoot bowls by arrangement.

Monbulk Bowling Club and Bistro is at 11 Moores Road, Monbulk. The bistro is open Wednesday to Sunday from 5.30pm. For bookings for the bistro or barefoot bowls phone 9756 6183.

· · · ·

MONBULK BOWLING CLUB 11 MOORES RD, MONBULK

Monbulk Bistro Specials by Day Community Bank ¥ Monbulk & District

Your town.

Your bank.

Wednesday

Thursday

Parma Night

Bowlers Special Burger, Beer & Bowls

$15* $15

$25* $25

Sunday

Wed to Sun

Everything you need We deliver the products and technology you’d expect from a big bank, plus the personal service you wouldn’t.

Kids Eat Free

Seniors’ Specials

$12.90*

$15*

Feel good about who you bank with. Try Bendigo.

Find out more. Call 9752 1130 or search Bendigo Bank Monbulk.

bendigobank.com.au

NEW! ALL WEEK KID’S MEAL DEAL UPGRADE

Upgrade any kid’s meal for $4 to include a kid’s drink, ice-cream and an activity pack.

Make a booking 9756 6183 Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178, AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 237879 A1455027 OUT_1827522, 09/02/2021

Dine a la carte Wed to Sun from 5.30pm Our Menu includes gluten-free & vegetarian dishes to suit special needs.

12503500-ACM29-21

mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

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12501586-SN29-21

1 FREE KID’S MEAL per paid adult meal of equal or greater value. Dine-in only.

12 and under. Must order from Kid’s Meals. Not valid with other offers or promotions. * Conditions apply for Specials'

MAIL 15

COMMUNITY COURSE GUIDE

Laura and Nicole are among the friendly team at Japara. 243179

Learn and grow at Japara Sit and Sew, Social Guitar, Jigsaw Puzzlers and Advanced Philosophy.

Childcare is offered Monday, Wednesday and Friday and there are a range of playgroups including one for grandparents caring for grandchildren.

Room hire is available for meetings, workshops and community groups.

“We are the local Kilsyth hub,” said community engagement officer Jackie Warren.

“We are welcoming everyone back to re-

Cockatoo Community House

connect and come together via community events. Enrol in a class that improves your wellbeing and, most importantly, reconnect and laugh again.”

There is an exciting term 3 program planned at Japara, including special community events: Celebrate Book week 21-27 August. Childcare will be having special activities all week to celebrate. The first ever Japara book club will meet on Monday 23rd at 7pm. All mem-

·

bers will be new.

Den Modern Day Parenting 25 August · Dads’ and 8 Sept 7pm. Fathering expert Darren

· ·

Varley will lead dads through interactive sessions.

National Science Week, 16 to 20 August.

Early years will be enjoying a week of science activities and also a special visitor.

Women’s Health Week – 6 -10 September. A week of fitness activities, giveaways, knowledge and fun.

Japara Neighbourhood House Inc. 54-58 Durham Road, Kilsyth Phone: 9728 3587 Email info@japarahouse.com.au Web www.japarahouse.com.au

supported by

About Japara We offer a wide range of educational and social support services for the people of Kilsyth and beyond; all with an aim to nurture and facilitate individual growth and social connections.

TERM 3

What’s On This Term 3 at Japara Beginners Tai Chi with Jeff Tuesday 13th July – 14th Sept | 11am-12pm | Tai Chi helps coordination, balance, relaxation, posture and muscle tone. It is beneficial for all ages and abilities. New participants and beginners welcome Seniors Fitness with Mary Tuesday 13th July – 14th September | 10am-11am | $8 per session | In-chair exercise to assist with strength, mobility and flexibility.

Great for all fitness levels. BYO drink bottle.

Mindfulness for Wellbeing with Anja Thursday 19th August –16th September | 7pm-9pm | Mindfulness meditation, Chi Kung, Mandala drawing and developing your inner resources. through relaxing the body, calming the mind and exploring your creativity.

23 Bailey Road, Cockatoo 3781 03 5968 9031 cch@taskforce.org.au fb.me/cockatoocommunityhouse taskforce.org.au/cch

Macramé Dream Catcher with Lynn Friday 30th July | 10am-1pm | $35 per person (including materials) | Catch your dreams by making your very own dream catcher.

Once you learn the art of Macramé you won’t look back.

Macramé 3 Pot Plant Hanger Friday 30th July | 10am-1pm | Make your own Macramé 3 pot hanger for yourself or as a gift

Meditation for Beginners Thursdays 29th July – 2nd September | 6.30-8.00pm |Introduction to mediation, relieve stress and anxiety and have a calming of the mind Children and Family Services Childcare Service | Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9am-2pm | $15 per hour for one child/per hour. CSS approved service with flexible booking times.

Playgroups Grandparents Playgroup | Tuesday | 10am-12pm | $40 per child/per term General Playgroup | Tuesday | 9:30am-11:30am | $50 per child/per term Payment to Playgroup Victoria is required. | Email: earlyyears@japarahouse.com.au

Community Events Celebrate Book week 23rd August 7pm Be apart of Japara’s first meeting of a book club.

All members will be new, come along and we will announce the time and meeting days – Lets start reading together.

Dads Den Modern Day Parenting 25 August – 8th Sept 7pm Fathering expert Darren Varley will lead Dads through interactive sessions.

12502457-NG29-21

Japara Neighbourhood House offers a wide range of educational and social support services to the people of Kilsyth and beyond, all with an aim to nurture and facilitate individual growth and social connections.

The welcoming community facility offers classes such as yoga, tai chi, senior’s fitness, macrame, technology courses and mindfulness for wellbeing.

Social groups meet regularly including Crafty Chicks, Japara Stitches, Kilsyth Seniors,

National Science Week | 16th 20th August Early years will be enjoying a week of science activities and also a special visitor.

Womens Health Week – 6th -10 September A week of fitness activities, giveaways, knowledge and fun.

12502798-SN29-21

16 MAIL

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Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

mailcommunity.com.au

COMMUNITY COURSE GUIDE

Engage with fun learning Are you ready to embrace fun again? Mountain District Learning Centre in Ferntree Gully has a variety of engaging, fun courses and workshops available in term 3, to bring some joy into your life!

The new course guide for MDLC is out now, you can find it online at www.mdlc.com.au or pick up a copy from various community organisations or your local library.

Choose from computer skills, craft, gardening and a variety of other short courses and activities. Join a book club or maybe write your own with inspiration from the creative writing class!

Learn a new technology in a supportive and fun environment; join The Very Basic Computer Class or Computers from Novice to the next step. Learn how to get the most out of your smart phone in a Saturday morning workshop.

If joining in activities from home suits you, try the Short Film Conversation Cafe or Movie Chat Club. Both are free and online!

It’s a case of back to the future with the Crochet 101 course! Monique will lead you through the basics and once you have mastered them you can move on to Next Level Crochet where you will build on your newly acquired skills.

MDLC has many interest groups that welcome new people. The community garden group is a wonderful way to enjoy gardening in a social atmosphere. The program runs on a Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. If gardening is not for you, Philosophy For Thinkers might be your cup of tea. The philosophy group meets on Friday mornings.

Maybe you would like to sew or craft for charity and use your skills to help others!

Crafty Ladies meet on Tuesday mornings, creating items for various children’s and youth charities. The Mountain Treasures group, meet

on Wednesday mornings and create beautiful handmade wares to sell at various shopping malls and markets. The Boomerang Bag group runs on Wednesday afternoons making shopping bags to raise funds for the centre.

MDLC’s education program includes an alternative youth education program running VCAL and the Certificate in General Education for Adults as well as Responsible Service of Alcohol and Adult literacy programs. If you are looking to get back into education, MDLC can help you through the Victorian Government’s Reconnect program which will support you to get into TAFE or further education.

So many ways to get back into life and education at MDLC! Staff welcome your call on 9758 7859.

Winter is a great time to connect!

Warm up, stretch your body and your mind. Join our Yoga classes or step into Qi Gong. Develop your writing skills or fill in your IT gaps with our Computer class. Want to master your garden? Sign up for one of our sustainable Garden courses.

Looking for some fun? Join our Cooking class for people with disabilities and share your skills or acquire new ones.

Book up early for Sept’s First Aid Courses or just chill out by joining our Wellbeing Group.

Your local community house is here for you

Our Childcare programs will take care or your kids while you take care of business.

Program details are in the Emerald Messenger or at: https://www.emeraldcommunityhouse.org.au/ or https://www.emeraldmessenger.com.au/

Mountain District Learning Centre 13-15 The Avenue, Ferntree Gully (03) 9758 7859 | www.mdlc.com.au

5968 3881 emhouse@iinet.net.au 12502775-AV29-21

mailcommunity.com.au

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Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

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MAIL 17

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 037

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.

easy

1 4

3 5

3 7 9 9 2 6 8 6 3 1 6 4 7 2 7 1 4 6 4 8 9 4 7 9 5 6 2 7

medium

2

9 8 5 3 8 2 4 7 4 2 1 7 8 7 4 2 3 1 2 4 5 7 2 3 9 6 9 7 3

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

DOWN

Waiflike (4) Helpers (10) Premise (11) Slash (3) On the seashore (7) Hurricane (7) Compelled (7) Compress (7) Denial (7) Hang (7) Ocean creature (3,4) Maybe (7) Greeted (3) Chaos (11) Shades (10) Prefix meaning million (4)

1 3 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 20 22 24 26 27 28 29

No. 037

Issue (5) Detach (7) Adept (7) Nutty (7) Piano professional (5) Transcendent state (7) Propped up (9) Gets in touch with (8) Christian holiday (9) Fungus (8) Level (7) Myths (7) Most excellent (7) Scrutinise (7) Part of a jacket (5) 25 Dance (5) 1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 14 16 18 19 20 21 23

DECODER

No. 037

hard

6 8 1 5 2 9 5 7 8

5

6

7

8

9

10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

B F 18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

6 7 1

17

8

9-LETTER WORD

easy

medium

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once.

No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

N

X

Today’s Aim: 13 words: Good 20 words: Very good

5 6 9 8 3 7 1 4 2

4 9 7 1 8 2 3 5 6

2 6 8 4 5 3 1 7 9

27 words: Excellent

1 5 3 9 7 6 8 2 4

6 3 4 5 9 7 2 8 1

9 8 5 2 1 4 6 3 7

7 1 2 6 3 8 4 9 5

5 2 1 3 4 9 7 6 8

8 4 6 7 2 5 9 1 3

3 7 9 8 6 1 5 4 2

1 4 3 5 6 2 7 8 9

7 8 2 9 4 1 5 3 6

2 3 5 6 9 8 4 7 1

4 7 1 2 5 3 6 9 8

8 9 6 7 1 4 2 5 3

6 2 4 3 7 9 8 1 5

9 1 8 4 2 5 3 6 7

3 5 7 1 8 6 9 2 4

hard

R

T

O

7 8 1 2 9 5 6 3 4

4 2 6 1 3 7 5 8 9

9 3 5 4 8 6 1 2 7

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ICIER IRATE ISLAM METRO NEEDS OBESE OGRES ONSET PARKA PASSE PASTA PLEAS RACER RAGER RISEN SHEET SIFTS SPENT STAGE STEAK STRAP

TERSE TIDED TIPSY TRAIT USAGE USURP VIDEO VIOLA WEIGH 6 LETTERS ENSURE PETITE SNEERS STRATA

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extort, EXTORTION, into, iron, noir, note, onto, orient, otter, oxen, riot, root, rote, rotten, tenor, tone, toner, toot, tore, torn, tort, torte, tote, toxin, trio, triton, trot

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WORDFIT

16-07-21

William Matthews Funerals FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

24 HOUR SERVICE ALL AREAS

9739 6868 45 Cave Hill Rd, Lilydale www.williammatthewsfunerals.com.au 18 MAIL

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12410397-ACM06-19

mailcommunity.com.au

TANGLEWOOD, AN IDYLLIC RETREAT SET in an idyllic and serene location on approximately. 5 glorious acres, this property provides a wonderful setting to enjoy a semi-rural lifestyle where kids can play and explore in their very own nature wonderland, all whilst overlooking the magnificent views of the Yarra Valley.

From the moment you arrive you are sure to feel at home with a large naturally lit living and lounge room that has been designed to give everyone their own peace and privacy.

The kitchen comes complete with double pantry, bench space galore and stainless steel appliances including a separate wall oven and grill, gas cooktop and near new dishwasher and an adjoining dining area that is a perfect place for entertaining family and friends.

There are multiple doors that open up onto a large decking where views are seen from every angle. Heating is well taken care of with gas ducted heating throughout and a coonara for those colder months and split system cooling for summer months.

The two bedrooms with built-in robes are of good size and the study could easily be made into a third bedroom without having to sacrifice too much space. The main bathroom is centrally located with a separate toilet and laundry near the entrance of the home.

The possibilities surrounding land use are endless, with purpose built extensive

internal and external fencing and gates providing excellent multi-purpose paddocks, enclosures for dogs, goats, sheep or ponies, weatherproof breeding aviaries and runs for chooks or other birds, a shade house for plant propagation, good sized veggie patch,

storage shed, single garage and workshop/ studio with space for this and so much more.

All this located within easy reach of the local primary and secondary schools, main shopping centers, public transport and

restaurants without being right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of it all. As we know acreage like this doesn’t come up often, so be sure to call us today to secure your inspection and the chance at the property of your dreams. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 15 Coulson Road, MONBULK Description: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: $1,050,000 - $1,150,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Justin Barrot, 0438 683 781 and Jacqui Ryder, 0433 095 278, BARRY PLANT, EMERALD, 5968 4522

SUBURBAN, COUNTRY & LIFESTYLE PROPERTIES ACROSS THE REGION mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

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MAIL 19

HOME FOCUS

SPECTACULAR VIEWS OVER GLENFERN VALLEY IDEALLY positioned only a short walk from the Upweys eclectic shopping village, local schools and train station, this unique midcentury home boasts sweeping views of the expansive Glenfern Valley and contains a versatile, spacious floorplan to suit all of your family needs. Filled with an abundance of natural light that streams through floor to ceiling windows, the mesmerizing views can be seen from almost every room.

Situated on a large 1420m2 block the home consists of two separate living areas and a beautiful kitchen with timber benchtops, stainless steel appliances and plenty of storage. There are four spacious bedrooms – The main with walk through wardrobe and updated ensuite plus access to the large decking that sweeps the full length of the home. There is even a separate drying room to keep your laundry baskets low and your house well organised!

Snuggle up in front of the open fireplace and enjoy the open plan living and all of the

extras that this home offers including warm timber floorboards, pendant lighting gas ducted heating, spilt system heating/cooling and a tranquil view from every room.

Outside, you will discover an oversized single garage, carport and lovely pathways that lead throughout the established gardens that have been lovingly created in

true Hills style.

Picture perfect in every way, this gorgeous property will set hearts racing!

An inspection is a must! ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 14 Belmont Avenue, UPWEY Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $800,000 - $880,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Sharyn Chandler, 0439 882 442, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE, 9754 6888

OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITY AN exceptional opportunity awaits at this large family home perfectly situated for convenience and investment prospects.

Steps away from all amenities, public transport, schools, and the beautiful Dandenong Ranges, this property is ideal for renovators looking for a place to call home.

Set on an enviable street with an elevated outlook, the possibilities for renovating this versatile residence or further developing the site’s outstanding potential (STCA) create boundless options for both families and investors alike. Boasting 4 generous bedrooms with built-in robes, 3 bathrooms, multiple living spaces and additional selfcontained apartment, this house is geared for multi-generational living.

The private driveway leads to an undercover carport and pergola through to formal entry, into a light filled lounge with original feature brick wall with functional fireplace. Timber floorboards extend through to the formal dining area and kitchen meals area and numerous windows brighten the tiled sunroom which takes full advantage of the views on offer. Ducted heating and additional cooling/heating split system throughout ensures comfort all year round.

A generous self-contained apartment downstairs with separate entrance through

its own sunroom, affords the possibility of accommodating extended family, teenagers, or future tenants. Complete with kitchen, living area, bathroom and sizeable bedroom creating a completely autonomous space.

Other outstanding features include large main bedroom with ensuite, walk-in robe, and spacious retreat, external independent

studio with capacity to be converted into an office or workshop, under-house storeroom and plenty of accessible outdoor space awaits a little imagination to be transformed into a superb, landscaped garden.

This property’s limitless potential, and premium position promises to impress.

Superbly located a mere 10-minute walk

to Ferntree Gully station and village shops, close to a selection of Primary and Secondary schools such as Wattleview and Ferntree Gully North Primary, St Joseph’s College, Fairhills High and Upwey High School and choice of recreation reserves and Dandenong Ranges National Park, it will certainly appeal to discerning buyers. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 36 Warrabel Road, FERNTREE GULLY Description: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 1 garage Price: $680,000 - $740,000 Inspect: By appointment Auction: Saturday, 24 July, at 2.00pm Contact: Suzie Brannelly, 0490 506 910, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE, 9754 6888 20 MAIL

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Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

mailcommunity.com.au

9 Bailey Road, Cockatoo

15 Coulson Road, Monbulk

10/11 Westlands Road, Emerald

The Ultimate Family Entertainer Package on 2023m2

Tanglewood, an Idyllic retreat on almost 5 acres

FULLY RENOVATED LIFESTYLE UNIT

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FOR SALE.

FOR SALE.

FOR SALE.

GUIDE $795,000 - $870,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Jacqui Ryder 0433 095 278 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

GUIDE $1,050,000-$1,150,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Jacqui Ryder 0433 095 278 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

GUIDE $530,000-$580,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Riley Nicholas 0488 501 218 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

7 Berrys Road, Emerald

4 Lakeview Court, Emerald

18 Ambrose Street, Emerald

STEPS FROM TOWN - A MODERNISED STARTER

AN EXCEPTIONAL HOME ON 8058m2

SITTING PRETTY IN DRESS CIRCLE LOCATION

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FOR SALE.

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FOR SALE.

GUIDE $630,000 - $693,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Denise McKay 0479 184 147 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

GUIDE $1,450,000-$1,595,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Gayle Barrot 0408 195 767 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

GUIDE $850,000-$920,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Justin Barrot 0438 683 781 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

Emerald 4 Westlands Road

AUCTION Saturday 24th July 11am 3 T

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Land Size 2224m2 Gayle Barrot 0408 195 767

mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

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MAIL 21

2735 Gem Launch Pl Road Gembrook

$1,080,000 - $1,185,000

142 Emerald Monbulk Road Emerald

$685,000 - $750,000

Enjoy the Lifestyle & Work From Home!

Obvious Former Glory!

Bathed in sunlight, this charming home on almost 2 acres has wide welcoming Merbau steps, front bullnose verandah, 2 living areas, both with wood heaters, 3 good sized robed bedrooms & master with walk-in robe updated ensuite.

The stunning kitchen has black cabinetry & white stone benchtops giving it a country contemporary feel with new appliances. Features of the home include high ceilings, casement windows, ceiling roses, split system cooling, & there is a fabulous undercover entertaining deck for spending time with family and friends. Outside the landscaped gardens are low maintenance & there is a massive 18 x 10m shed with a thick concrete floor designed to handle the heaviest of equipment. This property offers privacy and a quality lifestyle away from the pressures of busy life and will appeal to many - so ditch the factory and work from home.

In an outstanding Emerald location is this once glorious brick home on a flat block, almost ¾ acre. Entering the home you can see its former glory with high ceilings, beautiful dark parquetry floors, exposed brick walls, and a large living/ dining and lounge area with wood heater. An impressive feature servery window also features between the dining/ living area and kitchen with built-in bench and cupboards making entertaining a grand affair. There are 3 bedrooms, the master with ensuite, and main bathroom servicing the remaining 2 bedrooms; plenty of room for the whole family.

Outside there is an undercover entertaining area plus a 2 car carport which could easily become another room in the home (STCA). Additionally, a 4 car garage with concrete floor and 3 phase power is situated at the rear of the home next to the undercover entertaining area.

Contact: Richard Birtchnell 0438 747 357

Contact: Samantha Scott 0438 680 032 Declan Palmer 0427 062 148

Lot 1 Orchard Road Gembrook

Asking $2,000,000

5 Sunnyside Terrace Emerald

$880,000 - $950,000

Land Opportunity!

Next Level Living!

Here’s your opportunity to purchase substantial acreage close to town!

Set in a quiet, leafy Emerald position is this gorgeous family home on ½ acre with 4 bedrooms. Featuring large timber kitchen with plenty of cupboard and bench space and access outside to the entertaining area.

A sunroom with floor to ceiling windows adjoins the dining/ sitting room and can be closed off for privacy, the additional living area is situated on the lower level with its own access, perfect for entertaining that won’t disturb those in the main living zone. Of the 4 bedrooms, the master is on the lower floor with ensuite and its own access, the secondary also with ensuite plus private balcony, the third and fourth bedrooms serviced by the main bathroom. The home features a sealed driveway and carport plus a single garage with internal access, established gardens that welcome the wildlife, and lovely views of rolling hills from the first floor.

The property is over 39 acres of fertile land with gorgeous views of green rolling hills and a small dam, close to sporting facilities, The Eastern Dandenong Ranges Trail, and the Gembrook township.

This stunning piece of Residential Land is the place you will want to build your forever home (STCA)!

Inquire today!

Contact: Bethany Day 0438 844 968 Grant Day 0417 565 745

bellrealestate.com.au 22 MAIL

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Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

Contact: Aaron Day 0407 365 994 Kayla Turner 0448 440 495

5968 6222

311-313 Main St, Emerald mailcommunity.com.au

Real Estate you can trust!

We ’ r e h e r e t o h e l p FOR SALE

14 Belmont Avenue, UPWEY

$800,000 - $880,000 4A 2B 2C

SPECTACULAR VIEWS OVER GLENFERN VALLEY!

FOR SALE

11 Kumbada Avenue, UPWEY

$900,000 – $990,000 5A 3B 3C

SUPERB FAMILY HOME IN PHENOMENAL LOCATION!

Ideally positioned only a short walk from the Upweys eclectic shopping village, local schools and train station, this unique mid-century home boasts sweeping views of the expansive Glenfern Valley and contains a versatile, spacious floorplan to suit all of your family needs.

Filled with an abundance of natural light that streams through floor to ceiling windows, the mesmerizing views can be seen from almost every room. Picture perfect in every way, this gorgeous property will set hearts racing! An inspection is a must!

Perfectly located within close proximity of Upwey’s Shops, Train Station, Schools and Recreation Reserve this beautiful double storey family home provides a highly flexible layout for a family to really stretch out in. 5 good-sized bedrooms (4 upstairs, 1 downstairs), all with built-in-robes (main with Walk-In-Robe and full en suite), Stunning kitchen looking out over the near-flat backyard. If you are looking for a quality home to accommodate the whole family act quickly, because this unique offering will not last long in the current market!

Sharyn Chandler

Sam Adamson

M 0439 882 442 | E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

M 0421 023 760 | E sam@chandlerandco.com.auE

AUCTION

36 Warrabel Road, FERNTREE GULLY

$680,000 to $740,000

OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITY WITH INFINITE POTENTIAL

4A 3B 1C

FOR SALE

8 Marama Road, BELGRAVE HEIGHTS

$790,000 - $860,000

BELGRAVE HEIGHTS BEAUTY-YOUR FAMILY’S DREAM!

4A 3B 2C

An exceptional opportunity awaits at this large family home perfectly situated for convenience and investment prospects. Close to amenities, public transport, schools, and the Dandenong Ranges, this property is ideal for renovators looking for a place to call home. Set on an enviable street with an elevated outlook, the possibilities for renovating this versatile residence or further developing the site’s outstanding potential (STCA) create boundless options for both families and investors alike.

Welcome to 8 Marama Road – A peaceful haven that effortlessly combines the true Hills experience of lush greenery and a character, family home. Large and spacious, the home boasts a soothing ambience that nurtures the spirit and is bound to get hearts racing. Just a short stroll to Belgrave Heights Christian School, Belgrave South Primary and close to local shops, this is a truly idyllic setting within the sought after Belgrave Heights community.

Suzie Branelly

Glenn Chandler

M 0490 506 910 | E suzie@chandlerandco.com.au

M 0418 410 689 | E glenn@chandlerandco.com.au

9754 6888 1689 Burwood Highway, Belgrave VIC 3160 www.chandlerandco.com.au of fice@chandlerandco.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

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MAIL 23

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services

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V Deadline

V Trades Business Profile

V Fencing & Gates

PETER’S FENCING and GATES

Placing your classified advert is so easy...

Phone: 1300 666 808

TRADES & SERVICES

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS/BANK TRANSFER (1.5% credit card processing fee applies.)

Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...

30 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE

12493755-SN19-21

DIN TREE SERVICE N A W

• Driveways • Car Parks • Pathways, Tennis Courts, Draining, School Yards, Machine or Hand Laid Asphalt Repairs • Commercial & Domestic • Free Quotes • Timber & Brick Edging

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C1039154-JM27-12

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We NEVER

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9999-8193

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Jason 1300 644 698

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V Excavators

PIC: 38148 REC: 17042 AU: 06212

S&V RELIABLE EARTHWORKS • Excavator 5 Tonne and 15 Tonne • Bobcat Hire • Tip Truck Hire • All Types of Excavation Work • Holes Augered • Site Cuts • Driveways • Blocks Levelled and Shaped • Retaining Walls • Trenching • Free Quotes • No Jobs Too Big or Too Small

Phone Steve Ph: 5968 2508 Mobile: 0417 723 745

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Lighting Power Points Phone & Data Hot Water And more...

24 HOUR SERVICE ฀

9870 7059 FAIRBAIRNS HEATING & COOLING www.fairbairns.com.au Est. 1982

V Heating and Hot Water

EARTHWORKS

We NEVER

Close Lic No. REC 30504

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CALL GREG 0438 683 141 OR REGAN 0439 208 693.

CALL AFTER HOURS 5968 3140

12436017-SN51-19

12451054-SN24-20

g All Pricin t Up-Fron

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Gas Ducted Changeovers Split Systems Ducted Refrig

12456366-NG31-20

The Patch Electricians

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Pre-winter Service Specials extended till 1/9/21

1003429-PJ6-12

12440513-DV06-20

“Servicing the hills for over 30 years”

12415450-FA15-19

9998 3725

Hot winter specials J.L. Hutt Electrical

SERVICING THE PATCH AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS

12358958-PB30-17

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V Electricians

info@kallistaelectrical.com

Call Steve 0417 192 009

g All Pricin t Up-Fron

A Grade Electrical Contractor

V Bathroom & Kitchens

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Pensioner Discounts

Ph: 9761 4092

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12443385-NG10-20

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V Heating

Call 1300 666 808

Employment

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For all your electrical work including: Extensions Safety Switches Faults Repairs Farm Work Commercial and Domestic

V Builders & Building Services

Call Mick 0424 414 495

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V Electricians

Phone Mike 0419 887 499 www.mjbathroomrenovations.com.au

House & Property Maintenance No job too small Quality work at a great price, Fully insured

0473 326 333

Email: daniel@topcatdriveways.com.au Visit our website at: www.topcatdriveways.com.au

COMPLETE OR PARTIAL BATHROOM RENOVATIONS 20 Years’ Experience in all facets of the building trade RELIABLE TRADESMAN

‘Your Local’ Qualified Tradesman

฀

฀ ฀

Daniel Brown Mobile: 0409 395 635

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FREE

REPLACE IT WITH ASPHALT! IT WON’T HAPPEN AGAIN!

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• RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL DRIVEWAY WASHED OUT?

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C694915-SJ10-9

0418 327 737

SJC HOME MAINTENANCE

“Wandin Tree Service has been using community classifieds for the past 20 years. The Trade Directory adverts allows us to focus on specific local areas to provide a prompt, value for money service at affordable DGYHUWLVLQJ UDWHV ´ ă -LP

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V Asphalting

EST. 1984 29 Years’ Experience All work guaranteed

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5968 8493

0408 901 088

12456635-CG32-20

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12450434-LB23-20

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1178985-CG14-15

All types of fencing – rural, timber or colorbond Gates and Retaining Walls Expert Work at Mates Rates No job too small

Lic No. 116785 / AU 51273

General Classifieds section of Network Classifieds.

12454729-SG29-20

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Trades & Services

Place your ad in print and online www.networkclassifieds.com.au V Tree Lopping/Surgery

DANDENONG RANGES PAINTING SERVICE

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Call the team today 0421 574 444

Lic 106275

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A.G & E. WILLIAMS

BELGRAVE

PLUMBING CONTRACTORS

TREE SERVICES

12503528-HC29-21

Interiors • Exteriors 0419 683 392

1170652-HM05-15

Lic No. 29938 General Plumbing Gas Fitting Hot & Cold Water Roof & Spouting Pumps & Tanks Farm Water Boring & Trenching Sewerage Connections Septics & Sand Filters

Alan 5968 5191 Mob 0418 176 159 V Roofing

Employment

section of Network Classifieds.

V Plumbing Specialist in Gutter Cleaning / i`ÊÀ vÊÀi«> ÀÃÊEÊ i> ÃÊUÊ,i i`ÊEÊ* ÌÊ vÊ, và 25 Yrs Experience Call Matt for a free quote

The Patch Plumbers

12382862-RA13-18

Call Us Today...

For our FAST FRIENDLY SERVICE!

One call, We do it all!

Roof Restoration Specialists

đŏ ((ŏ(! 'ŏ.!, %./ŏđŏ ++"ŏ /$%*#ŏđŏ ++"ŏ %*0%*# đŏ (!4%ġ,+%*0%*#ŏđŏ % #!ŏ0%(!ŏ.!ġ ! %*# đŏ ((!5ŏ $ *#%*#ŏđŏ 100!.ŏ (! *%*#ŏ".+)ŏĸāĂĀ đŏ ((ŏ05,!/ŏ+"ŏ.++ü*#ŏ * ŏ .,!*0.5

Lic No. 116785

12451055-LB24-20

C683684-SJ2-9

• Domestic • Commercial • Installation & Maintenance • Sewerage Connections • Septic Tanks & Stormwater Drains • Drain Blockages • Burst Pipes • LPG to Natural Gas Conversions • Hot Water Service Repairs & Renewals • Spouting, Roofing Repairs & Installation

5 SHERIFF ROAD, EMERALD 12450405-AM23-20

LOCAL PLUMBER FAST AND RELIABLE

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V Windows

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Paul 0418 570 231 paulnobes@live.com.au

Lic. 25035

V Rubbish Removal 12367707-LB41-17

Why hire a bin when we load & take away your rubbish from $100

R U B B I S H R E M O VA L

Call Andrew 0408 242 015

FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS.

C456410-KK31-6

C1024520-KG18-12

Plumbing & Gas Fitting, Excavator Hire, Water Renewals, Metal Roof & Gutters, Hot Water Unit Repair & Replacement, All Sanitary & Stormwater Drainage, Septic, Sewer & Treatment Plants, Pumps & Rain Water Tanks.

Service

Licence No 21425 Maintenance, Bathroom Renovations, Gas Fitting, Dishwashers, Spouting, Replace gas & electric hot water service, General Plumbing.

12450404-AM23-20

For all your plumbing needs phone Nick on 0413 422 842

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C936869-KK25-11

Lic No. 116785

• Septic Tanks • Treatment Plants • Grease Traps • EPA Licence • Portable Toilets

5962 4841

30 MIN FUN TIME "Visit You". Mature, blonde, D-cup. Monday-Saturday, 9am - 8pm. Call Yvonne on 0491 609 933.

SWA10119XE V Massage Therapists

9735 3700

Mobile 0419 131 958 SERVICING ALL AREAS BOB WALLACE AND SONS V Tree Lopping/Surgery

ADVERTISERS in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.

V Pets & Services ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number.

It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice.

For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

Parks Victoria strives to protect Victoria’s special places. This includes the control of introduced plant and animal species. As part of an ongoing strategy, notice is hereby given that Parks Victoria will be laying buried baits and deploying Canid Pest Ejector bait stations containing Sodium Monofluoroacetate (1080 poison) and PAPP (4-aminopropiophenone) on public land for the control of foxes.

V Positions Vacant

Trapping stations and baits containing 1080 poison and PAPP will be laid from 8 July 2021 until 30 June 2022.

Full time position available at Murphy’s Mitre 10, Monbulk.

Our friendly, family run business requires a truck driver / yard person.

Bait and Trapping Stations will be laid at strategic sites, and other known areas of fox habitat, within Haining Farm, Warramate Nature Conservation Area, Yellingbo Nature Conservation Area, Bunyip State Park, Kurth Kiln Regional Park & Wright Forest Bushland Reserve.

• The applicant MUST hold a medium/heavy rigid licence and have confidence in driving a crane truck and various tip trucks.

Cage Trapping Stations will be laid at strategic sites, and other known areas of cat habitat, within Haining Farm, Warramate Nature Conservation Area, Yellingbo Nature Conservation Area, Bunyip State Park, Kurth Kiln Regional Park.

Any queries, please call our Store Manager:

Notification Signage will be posted throughout the Pest Animal Control areas and members of the public who are living, visiting or working in the above-named areas are advised to take particular care not to disturb or interfere with bait stations or traps. While domestic dogs and cats are particularly susceptible to 1080 and PAPP poisons, they are not permitted in Haining Farm, Warramate Nature Conservation Area, Yellingbo Nature Conservation Area or Bunyip State Park and dogs must be on lead in both Kurth Kiln Regional Park and Wright Forest Bushland Reserve.

12503195-LB28-21

General Notices section of Network Classifieds.

Employment Truck Driver / Yardsperson

• This person must also be highly motivated, willing to work outdoors as part of a team.

Please forward resumes to murphys@bigpond.net.au

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SPORT

Tigers’ form builds

By Nick Creely Woori Yallock continues to build into some ominous form in the AFL Outer East’s Premier Division, knocking off Wandin by a whopping 113 points on Saturday at home, 21.15 (141) to 3.10 (28).

The great rivals did battle, but it was oneway traffic from the outset as Jack Cole’s group strolled to their second win in three matches - in the process moving two games clear inside the top six as finals beckon for the Tigers.

While the Tigers were perhaps a touch wasteful in the opening stanza, the home side opened up a 30-point quarter time advantage to set the game up, with 17 goals to three kicked in the remaining three quarters in what was a flattening performance.

Impressively, the Tigers didn’t rely on just a few to kick a winning score, with 12 individual goal kickers, including six multiple goal scorers in a well-rounded performance that would have made for a happy coach.

There was plenty to like around the ground for the Tigers - Liam O’Dea turned in yet another class performance, big man Ryley Monkhorst was once again a force to be reckoned with, while the likes of Zach Monkhorst, Bailey Syswerda and Luke Boontjes were all in the best.

The Tigers host Olinda Ferny Creek - coming off a bye - in what looms as a blockbuster clash this Saturday.

Down at The Superdome, Upwey Tecoma was outclassed by Pakenham, 20.17 (137) to 10.9 (69).

The Lions were smarting after a loss to Woori just prior to their bye, and played like a side on a mission.

While the Tigers desperately tried to keep pace in the opening quarter, Ash Green’s side broke the game apart with a dominant six goal second term to open up a 48 point lead.

With the likes of Josh Tynan (four goals), Liam Tyrrell, the returning Darcy Hope (three goals) and Zac Stewart all turning in eyecatching displays, the Lions played some of their best footy of the season.

In the remaining matches, Beaconsfield extended its unbeaten season another week with a class 33-point win against Cranbourne, 11.14 (80) to 7.5 (47), while Narre Warren was too good for Doveton, 17.22 (124) to 7.6 (48).

In Division 1, Mt Evelyn banked a massive win on the road against Officer, in another sign of the Rovers’ premiership credentials, 9.8 (62) to 6.16 (52).

Like good sides do, the Rovers made the Kangaroos pay for their wastefulness in front of goal, leading at every change and showcasing some tough footy with flashes of brilliance.

In the second quarter alone, the Kangaroos booted a woeful 1.10 to 2.1, and didn’t allow the home side’s attacking threats overwhelm them in an impressive display.

The second-placed Rovers will take plenty out of the win on the wide expanses of Starling Road, with the likes of Rob Hartfield, Kaleb Van Beek (three goals) and Bayley Forbes all putting together excellent individual displays.

Mark Fisher’s group has been a remarkably consistent, well-drilled machine in 2021, but

The Monbulk Rangers as they prepared to face Hume City.

Picture: JC ADVENTURE IMAGES

Rangers’ brave fight

By Jed Lanyon

Mt Evelyn secured a huge win on the road on Saturday against Officer in the AFL Outer East.

243410 Pictures: ROB CAREW this win - with the visitors’ crowd watching on - is their most impressive and eye-catching to date.

Gembrook Cockatoo held off a plucky Berwick Springs at Mick Morland Reserve, 15.16 (106) to 10.10 (70).

The Titans held a quarter time lead after an eye-catching opening term that saw nine goals scored between the two clubs, but the bigger bodies, and experience of the Brookers started to gain control thereafter.

The Brookers were wasteful in front of goal in the second and third quarters, but set the game up nicely as the home side battled valiantly to stay in the contest.

Craig Clarke was outstanding for the Brookers, while the likes of Aaron Firrito, Josh Tilly and Lochlan Taylor were all in the best.

There was some big margins in the other games - top-of-the-table Monbulk bounced back with a 111-point drubbing of Healesville, 21.16 (142) to 4.7 (31), while Seville enjoyed a whopping 53 scoring shots on the way to a 160-point win against Belgrave, 24.29 (173) to 2.1 (13).

Dom Aloi slotted eight for the visitors, while Nathan O’Keefe also got in on the act with four.

Division 2 saw some drubbings, plus a draw in a fascinating round of footy.

Down at Alexandra, the Saints drew with Yea, 8.11 (59) to 8.11 (59). There was almost nothing in the contest all day in an absorbing contest between the two clubs.

Kaleb Van Beek celebrates a goal for Mt Evelyn. 243410 Yarra Glen found its kicking boots with a 205-point win against Broadford, 32.22 (214) to 1.3 (9), with Callum Morison slotting 10 and Adam Moate eight, Powelltown banked a strong win at home against Yarra Junction, 17.22 (124) to 8.13 (61), while Kinglake were also on song in a commanding performance against Warburton Millgrove, 21.19 (145) to 4.3 (27), with Will Graf absolutely dominant with six majors.

Under 19s Bloods score narrow victory

By Frank Seal With the Olinda-Ferny Creek Football Club seniors taking the weekend off with another bye, the under 19s headlined the round in their match against a dangerous GembrookCockatoo coming off a one-point victory over top-of-the-table Emerald.

The Bloods - hosting the game at Berwick Springs - were looking to keep in touch with top-placed teams Emerald and Officer, all three with seven wins.

Olinda started poorly, with minimal intensity and no physical pressure creating a domino effect of lacklustre, unaccountable footy.

Fumbling and poor disposal added to the Bloods’ problems and Gembrook was able to get out to a three-goal quarter time lead and enter the break with confidence.

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Tuesday, 13 July, 2021

Looking to respond, Olinda’s effort lifted in the second term, but a lack of accountability was still prevalent, and the Brookers continued to look dangerous when moving the ball forward.

With some key moves including senior defender Pat Seymour switching to the ruck, the Olinda midfielders started to get on top.

With more efficient delivery into the forward line, the Bloods finally started to hit the scoreboard thanks to sharp-shooting Josh Meadows who bagged three for the quarter.

The Bloods were able to narrow the deficit to seven points at the major break In the third quarter, Olinda began to dominate and players on every line were impacting the game.

Oakley Jessop was solid in defence and Tyler Belloni was typically explosive off half-back. In

the middle, Max Reid was displaying a best on ground performance, clean in the contest and effective with disposal.

With four unanswered goals, the Bloods hit the front and took a 17-point lead into the final change.

Entering the fourth quarter, Olinda was expecting a big response from the Brookers and was determined to hold off any challenge.

Percy Hyett was crucial in winning contested ball in defence and halting a late surge from Gembrook.

Olinda was able to consolidate and with each team scoring one goal for the quarter, the Bloods were victorious at the final siren with a 57-36 result.

Olinda’s women’s side (4-3-27) defeated Thornton-Eildon (0-1-1)

The Monbulk Rangers made an unlikely run at the Football Federation Australia Cup (FFA Cup) as the team came just one win away from qualifying for the national competition of 32.

The Rangers’ Senior Men’s team competed in the final eight of the FFA Cup qualifiers in Victoria, a rare achievement for State League 2 side.

The result didn’t go Monbulk’s way on Wednesday 7 July as they lost 3-0 to Hume City in a matchup billed as ‘David versus Goliath’ in a Football Victoria preview.

The Rangers eliminated West Preston, Lalor United, former NSL side Mooroolbark and Clifton Hill on their journey to the seventh round of the preliminary qualifier fixture.

Substitute goalkeeper Beau Newman said the team’s run galvanised the community around the football club.

“It was pretty surreal and a massive achievement for all involved,” he said.

“We took it game by game and basically saw it as getting a free hit week after week. It was a positive achievement no matter what we did as we tried to further our best each time we played.”

The team beat their own personal best in reaching the seventh round of the state tournament.

“For some of the players, it’s the biggest game they’re going to play in their local footballing career and it just shows you what you can do as a team,” Newman said. “At any given moment you can pull out performances against a bigger side and play to a standard and level that you didn’t think you were capable of.”

The club’s FFA Cup performance has put the Men’s State League 2 South-East on notice as the 9th ranked Rangers are inspired to continue the momentum in their local tournament.

Monbulk returned to enjoy a 1-0 win against the 4th placed Skye United FC on Saturday 10 July.

Newman said the club could have been viewed as “easy beats” within their own league prior to their unlikely run.

“We had been performing well but it wasn’t translating into our games all the time, so we knew how good we could be and sometimes you just need a cup run like that to show the rest of the league, the club and squad just what you can do... It reinforced that we do have the ability to play good football and we proved that anyone on their day is a threat in football.

“Usually you get four NPL sides to go through and that’s what’s expected. We sort of threw a bit of a monkey wrench in the plans of some other teams and we just proved it doesn’t matter who you are on your day, you can still be beaten.

“For the Hills community, it gave them something to look forward to after such a negative situation of recent flooding and storms and bleak years with Covid. It’s given the Monbulk community and surrounding area something to get around.” mailcommunity.com.au

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FIXTURES - ROUND 18 Thursday, July 15 ......................................................... Fremantle vs Geelong Friday, July 16 ............................................................. Richmond vs Brisbane Saturday, July 17 .................................................................... GWS vs Sydney Saturday, July 17 ..................................Gold Coast Suns vs Western Bulldogs Saturday, July 17 .......................................................Melbourne vs Hawthorn

Saturday, July 17 ...................................................... St Kilda vs Port Adelaide Sunday, July 18 ............................................... North Melbourne vs Essendon Sunday, July 18 ...........................................................Collingwood vs Carlton Sunday, July 18 ..........................................................Adelaide vs West Coast

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