Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 3rd August 2021

Ranges Trader

Hills residents fed up with NBN

Prize puts director on road to fame

PAGE 3

PAGE 7

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

Mail

A Star News Group Publication

Women’s footy back in action SPORT

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

12496493-NG22-21

A lot to weather

By Taylah Eastwell

Julia Hall continues to smile despite being trapped in her driveway for the second time in two months. greeted the tree with my car when I was trying to get down the driveway to get to work,” Ms Hall said.

“We literally weren’t even worried in the beginning, we truly thought there were no more trees that could come down. We went to go for a walk last night and there was a tree down at

Mt Dandenong shops, and being typical locals, we all stopped to chip in and started pulling branches off the roads. While we were clearing we were getting blown around, that’s how strong the wind was.

“We didn’t end up going for our walk, we just went home and made sure everything was 12487207-JW12-21

Just 50 days after a devastating storm ripped through the Dandenongs, many stormbattered residents were last week dealt yet another blow.

Gusty winds with peaks of 100km/h hit the Ranges again on 27 July, serving as a traumatic reminder of the catastrophic weather event of 9 June that left hundreds displaced and many without power for weeks on end.

For Kalorama’s Julia Hall and family, the NBN was only restored around 3pm last Tuesday (27 July) – more than seven weeks following the superstorm.

The family was ecstatic. Finally, they could join the rest of the world in working from home, and their son could finally submit the school work he’d completed by hand over the last month-and-a-half.

With the state set to be let out of lockdown at 11.59pm that evening, their son couldn’t wait to go back to school and see his mates, and Julia was itching to get out and socialise.

But their hope was short-lived.

Just hours after the modem lit up again, the lights flickered and the house went black. The wild winds had hit - the Halls now trapped in their property by a fallen tree, once again.

“I just thought surely there can’t be any more trees ready to come down. We had 14 blackwoods down in the 9 June storm. I went to bed early this time, and then at midnight I was woken by the sound of the tree falling over.

It gave us a fright, it sounded really close,” Ms Hall said.

With torch in hand, Julia and her son peeked through the window but couldn’t make out what had happened in the darkness.

“We went back inside, then this morning I

AMANDA CHARLES Your best outcome is my motivation.

battened down,” Ms Hall said.

The Halls are currently house-sitting for friends who are travelling around Australia while they wait on their dream home to be built in Emerald.

Continued page 3

Small local business providing reliable on-time service in your area

0400 347 968

12467054-DL44-20

12506511-HC32-21

Call Sean Ph: 0422 642 440 SABELECTRICALco Sabelectricalco REC # 28387 12450205-LB23-20

Open for Business (service & repairs) 5968 6031 4WD - CARS - PETROL - DIESEL 297 Belgrave-Gembrook Road, Emerald

NEWS

Some restrictions eased

By Taylah Eastwell and Mikayla Van Loon Victoria’s fifth lockdown was eased last Tuesday, but stringent restrictions remain and are set to stay in place for at least another week.

Premier Daniel Andrews announced on Tuesday 27 July that the state would revert to a lighter lockdown.

The news comes as the state recorded numerous days of cases all linked to current outbreaks and all in isolation during their infectious period.

The five reasons to leave home were scrapped – including the 5km travel bubble – with Victorian’s free to roam between regional areas and metro Melbourne. However, no visit-

ing family or other homes is currently allowed.

Victorians are only able to book accommodation with their household, intimate partner or single bubble.

“It is incredibly important that we regard the home as what it is, it is in many respects from the transmission of this virus point of view the highest risk environment, so no visitors to your home for the next two weeks and if we can change at that point, we will,” Mr Andrews said.

Public gatherings of 10 people are permitted.

Students returned to face-to-face learning from Wednesday 27 July.

Cafes and restaurants have also re-opened their doors, however strict density limits and patron caps apply with only 100 people allowed inside indoors at once and 300 outside - and just one person per four square metres.

Retail, beauty and personal care has also reopened with the same strict density limits.

Masks remain mandatory in all indoor and outdoor settings where you cannot properly socially distance, except inside the home.

“I know its painful, I know no one enjoys doing it. But it is effective,” Mr Andrews said.

There are currently no crowds at the footy or large events. Funerals and weddings are limited to 50 people.

Offices have returned to 25 per cent, or 10 people, whichever is greater – if necessary.

“If you can work from home then you should. We would ask that you work from home in the interests of every precaution to keep us safe, again that won’t be news that everyone supports but they are the rules,” Mr Andrews said.

These rules are expected to remain in place until Tuesday 10 August.

“It’s taxing, it’s a pain, it’s difficult, it’s very very challenging but it’s the only thing that works against this virus, so I’m deeply grateful to every Victorian who has done the right thing,” Mr Andrews said.

IN BRIEF Learner car impounded in FTG Officers from Knox Highway Patrol impounded a vehicle in Ferntree Gully last Friday night.

The Mazda E200 van was travelling east on Burwood Highway when officers saw the vehicle turn from Clyde Street on to the Highway about 11.40pm.

The driver allegedly accelerated and the rear of the vehicle slid out, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

A 23-year-old Beveridge man was behind the wheel and it was established he was a learner driver.

His vehicle was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1325 He is expected to be charged on summons with failing to have control of motor vehicle, fail to have a supervising driver, careless driving and other traffic related offences.

The impound forms part of Operation Achilles where officers across the state are working together to reduce and disrupt hoon activity using shared intelligence to identify those responsible for organising hoon meets.

Covid-19 restriction enforcement Victoria Police currently have about 1300 police and PSO resources dedicated to coronavirus-related enforcement.

This includes around 400 roving patrols along the NSW and SA borders, 250 patrolling the rest of the state and responding to breaches of directions and 400 at quarantine hotels.

Since border patrols commenced on 26 June 2021, police have checked 76,630 people along state borders or on major routes near the border.

The majority of checks (60,793) were conducted at alcohol and drug testing bus locations, with the remainder (15,837) undertaken by mobile patrol units.

Overall compliance has been overwhelmingly high at 98.9 per cent, according to police.

Most people who were found to be noncompliant have been either naive or unaware of the required process.

PROUDLY AUSTRALIAN OWNED & INDEPENDENT

12442924-LB10-20

244 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville, 3777 General Enquiries Tel: 5957 3700 Email: enquiries@mailcommunity.com.au Distribution Enquiries Tel: 1300 654 910 Advertising Group Advertising Manager – Tracey Aitken Email: advertising@mailcommunity.com.au Editorial Editor – Garry Howe Email: editor@mailcommunity.com.au Classifieds Advertising Phone: 1300 666 808 Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au Deadlines: Display Advertising: 4PM Wednesday Trades: 4PM Thursday Classifieds: 4PM Friday Sports Results: 9AM Monday Managing Director: Paul Thomas

The Star Mail is published by Paul Thomas for Star News Group Pty Ltd ABN 98 238 557 339. All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For terms and conditions please visit www.mailcommunity.com.au Print Post Number PP33445700014.

12495786-SN32-21

2 MAIL

|

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Two months just too long

By Taylah Eastwell Dandenong Ranges residents are fed up with receiving mixed messages from telecommunications and internet providers, with many still without access to the internet almost two months since the storm shattered the network.

Since the June 9 storm, parents and families in the Hills feel they have been left in the dark by the National Broadband Network (NBN), with lockdown 5.0 and work from home directives only amplifying difficulties.

Sassafras resident Andrew Phillips runs a business from home and has been “fighting” to have his connection restored since the storm.

“The NBN turned up this morning (28 July) and even after the ombudsman told them they would need a big truck, they turned up in a little van and proceeded to tell me they can’t fix it and would need to escalate it,” Mr Phillips said. “I then got a text saying the NBN has now been resolved thankyou – meanwhile, we still have phone lines down on the street,” he said.

Mr Phillips is fed up, having been through Telstra, the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman and the Minister for Communications to try and have his internet restored – to no avail.

“We run a pre-sale business getting houses ready for sale. The amount of times we have had to go sit in cafes to type quotes and email clients is unbelievable. We are actually going backwards with getting it sorted out because now I have to start a whole new claim because

the NBN closed the case when they haven’t done anything,” he said. “They don’t answer to anybody, they seem to be a law of their own.

There is no check and balance on the NBN.” Mr Phillips said the internet at his Alice Street home is “so poor it runs on about 3mg per second” and he does not have mobile reception at all.

“We’ve had kids home for two weeks with remote learning, one in year 10 and one in year six and we could only have one online at any one time. Fifteen years ago you could ring Telstra and they’d send someone out to fix it. Now, the NBN say they’ll come so we take days off work and then no one turns up and we don’t get notified,” Mr Phillips said.

Mr Philllips said Telstra suggested putting a “booster” on his house that would set him back $1500.

“I go to Bali and have better reception than I do in metro Melbourne,” he said. “I have two friends who have had heart attacks in the last 18 months, it’s a real worry because we have no way to communicate with the outside world, if we need help, no one will come.”

Fellow Sassafras resident Belinda Young said she had been left no choice but to “pay through the nose for extra data” to work from home and allow her children to complete remote learning during lockdown.

“Some people might not have that luxury, but we fear there is no choice. We are just wanting things to be back to normal,” Ms Young said.

Ms Young said she was originally told it would be a month until internet was restored.

“We were ready for the long haul, but it started getting ridiculous when we realised other places were moving faster [with getting internet restored],” she said. “NBN had told the council there were around 500 people up here still without NBN, mainly off the mountain. So I put a question out on the Hills and The Dandenongs Facebook page to ask how many people were still without NBN and it was quite clear there were a lot of people on the mountain still without, so NBN did not have a good understanding of how big the situation was.”

Ms Young said council followed up with the NBN and they put more people on to try and get lines restored.

Ms Young’s neighbour, Jeaniene Spink works internationally from home, with conference calls and a strong internet connection essential in her role.

“It’s just totally diabolical. We had 150 people on our road on one day with vehicles fixing the electricity, that came into play almost immediately after they announced there would be financial compensation to residents without electricity. We’ve had nothing with regards to the NBN response,“ Ms Spink said.

“We are just not getting any response from the NBN, there is no direct line of communication and no clear line of communication around what is a reasonable level of compensation for being completely without the NBN

for two months. At what point are community members compensated for there not being an essential service connected to their area.

“Residents are set up for living in the Dandenong Ranges but there needs to be some clear guidelines of expectations around appropriate response times, what levels of compensation will be provided if they can’t meet that response, and recognition that internet is an essential service.”

In a statement released on 27 July, NBN said its crews were “working street by street” to repair the network and single service faults.

“In some cases, customers have still been unable to connect even though their whole area has been restored. This is known as a single service fault and is reported to NBN by the internet service provider,” it said.

With further wild winds hitting the Ranges on 27 July, NBN said that caused further damage to the network and impacted restoration efforts.

“Crews have restored approximately 170,000 services and have been working seven days a week to restore approximately 700 remaining services as quickly as possible,“ a spokesperson said. “We appreciate the extended loss of connectivity due to these severe storms has been difficult for impacted residents and businesses, particularly during lockdown, and thank them for their patience.”

Kalorama family trapped in home for a second time From page 1 “They (the owners) couldn’t believe it.

They were driving along the beach and got the text and just said, how can another tree have come down?,” Ms Hall said.

“We were trapped for four days last month, we had power lines around waist height on our driveway and the SES couldn’t touch the tree because the power lines were Ausnet’s responsibility. Ausnet couldn’t give us a date, they actually turned up two and a half weeks later. It was only because of our beautiful neighbour who said he would take care of it that we got out. He told me to go inside and he cut the tree and kicked the power lines onto the ground so I could finally leave the driveway, I just had to drive over them.

“That’s the good thing about the community up here in Kalorama and Mt Dandenong, we all look after each other. When I posted that we were trapped in the driveway again people were commenting asking if they could bring me anything.

“It’s just things like that, and the Kalorama Hub, that really kept us going after the June storm. The first time I went to the hub I realised I needed to go there everyday because it was the one thing that was going to keep me sane.”

Luckily this time, the Halls were freed the

The large tree that came down in the gusty winds on 27 July. same afternoon when Ausnet removed the tree blocking them in.

Speaking to the Star Mail at the time, Ms Hall said it was really concerning to be trapped given her husband’s health condition.

“My husband has a heart condition, my

biggest fear is what if he starts to have another heart attack and he can’t get out of the property and the ambos can’t get in. I think the authorities sometimes forget about that, they ask if anyone is hurt but not if anyone has a medical condition,” she said.

Ms Hall has also been putting her time spent cooped up at home to good use, having spearheaded a group focused on preserving fallen timber in the Dandenongs.

The Facebook group, titled ’Rescue Logs - Keep our trees in the hills’, is all about preventing trees from being chopped up for firewood or chipped, with hopes they can instead form part of a community project.

“Mother nature has pushed them over, so we want to make sure they are being used.

“We are talking to council and VicForest and local artists about how we can reuse them and we are hoping big business will get behind it. The most cost in any of this is moving the logs around, they are massive so they are expensive to move.

“We are directing our energy into looking at one or two bigger projects. We are looking at whether we can create a playspace and learning space at Kalorama Park reusing the logs whether it be in sculpting native animals or play equipment, and then also some nice learning areas to remember the storm and the positive parts of it.

“There are a lot of traumatised kids up here after the storm. I don’t want scared children to grow up and move off the hill. We need to remember the positives.

Mater Christi College, Belgrave Excellence in all-girls education

Arrange a tour to discover why Mater Christi girls achieve region leading VCE and vocational results. Experience our vibrant and inclusive community which encourages and celebrates the can-do energy of girls.

Year 7 2023 Scholarships Applications closing soon

12506508-SN32-21

mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

|

MAIL 3

STORM AND FLOOD

BULLETIN

This bulletin provides regular updates and stories about recovery and clean-up from the June 2021 storms and floods both in our local community and across Victoria’s affected areas.

Bushfire Recovery Victoria proudly works in partnership with council and the local community to support recovery.

STORM AND FLOOD RECOVERY SUPPORT

HOTLINE

1800 560 760 The Storm and Flood Recovery Hotline is a single statewide number that Victorians impacted by the June 2021 storms and floods can call for help or assistance.

Operators can assist you with registering for Clean-Up of structures on private property or accessing your own Recovery Support Worker, mental health and wellbeing support, financial counselling and information on available payments.

The Recovery Hotline is open from 8am to 7pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) and 9am to 1pm on weekends.

STORM AND FLOOD CLEAN-UP PROGRAM Bushfire Recovery Victoria (BRV) is supporting the clean-up and recovery work for the owners of private property damaged by the storms and floods that occurred on 9–10 June 2021.

To request support: •

You must be a private property owner

•

The private property must be in one of the 39 local government areas (LGAs) impacted by the June 2021 storms and floods.

•

The damage to your property must have occurred as a direct result of the storms and floods on 9–10 June 2021.

Clean-Up Program – Structures on private property To be eligible for the Clean–Up program on private property, the affected property must contain a structure(s) that was destroyed or damaged beyond repair.

AN UPDATE FROM YARRA RANGES SHIRE COUNCIL Kalorama and Olinda Recovery Hubs to re-open Council’s Community Recovery Hubs have now reopened in Kalorama and Olinda following the easing of Covid-19 lockdown restrictions.

The hubs are currently open 6 days per week from Tuesday to Sunday between 10am and 4pm at the following locations: Olinda Community House 79-81 Olinda-Monbulk Road, Olinda Karwarra Garden (rear of Kalorama Memorial Reserve) 1190-1196 Mount Dandenong Tourist Road, Kalorama The recovery hubs have been established to support the community’s medium to long-term needs following the recent storm event.

Council staff will be on site at the hubs to answer questions and help connect community members with various services or agencies as required.

Please check Council’s website www.yarraranges.vic.gov. au for updates on services and activities being held at the Community Recovery Hubs.

Structures will be cleared and removed along with any hazards cleared to access a structure.

The Clean–Up program is fully-funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments and provided at no cost to eligible property owners, regardless of whether they were insured or not.

BRV is partnering with Johns Lyng Group to undertake the Clean–Up program.

Trees on private property that are still standing but have become hazardous BRV is accepting registrations for the assessment of trees on private property that are still standing and pose a risk to a place of residence or personal safety.

Trees standing on private property that were made hazardous because of the June 2021 storms and are within falling distance of a structure or access to a structure can be professionally assessed and recommendations made for their treatment.

If someone’s life is in danger call Triple Zero 000.

More information For more information about the Storm and Flood Clean-Up program, visit brv.vic.gov.au/cleanup or phone the Storm and Flood Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760.

12505913-AV32-21

4 MAIL

|

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Council puts programs in place for storm recovery

Star Mail photographer Stewart Chambers receives his Covid-19 vaccine.

GP’s jab call

By Jed Lanyon As Australia’s vaccination rate slowly increases, we edge closer to a ‘normal’ life without facemasks and lockdowns.

Approximately 13 per cent of all Australians are fully vaccinated, while a more promising figure of about 30 per cent have received their first dose.

As many cities deal with ongoing outbreaks of the virus, Eastern Health GP Dr Vishal Patil urged those who are eligible for the vaccine, to do their bit in Australia’s efforts to beat the pandemic and go and get their jab.

He spoke with Star Mail in the hopes of quelling any hesitancy or concerns surrounding the Covid-19 vaccine.

Dr Patil said a common reason for vaccine hesitancy was a fear of developing blood clots from the AstraZeneca vaccine.

“The risk of getting a clot is quite low as compared to the risk of dying from getting the Covid infection.”

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) recommends Pfizer vaccine as the preferred vaccine for those aged 16 to 59 years, but the AstraZeneca vaccine can be provided to people aged 18 to 59 years of age.

“Currently, the AstraZeneca vaccine is quite widely available in almost all regional practices. And the current data is saying, which is coming from the Australian Department of Health, that people above 60 should have been vaccinated (with AstraZeneca). But there’s only 15 per cent who have had their second jab at this point in time.”

Dr Patil estimated the risk of developing a blood clot to be 1.4 in one million, much lower than than the rate of death from contracting Covid-19.

“We’re not even talking about the rest of the complications which people can end up living with after a Covid infection.”

He noted that the deadly Covid-19 outbreak in the UK saw many citizens take up the offer of the AstraZeneca vaccine, which has caused the Covid-19 death rate to plummet.

“If you take the Covid vaccine rollout in the UK, the numbers are coming and yes I agree their cases and infection rate is there. However the deaths are one-twentieth for the people who have taken the vaccine.

“The rate has gone down significantly when comparing their previous wave and the current wave… It’s that data that is showing that this vaccine does work,” he said.

“Let’s take the example of the UK. Our health system and the UK health system is almost the same. Their NHS and our Medicare is almost the same. If you look at their immunisation rate with the AstraZeneca, people right from 18 to everyone pretty much had the AstraZeneca there and there’s not that many complications.”

Dr Patil assured that any vaccine is rigorously tested before being administered to the public.

“Some of the points people are worried about, is this vaccine being developed too quickly? Well that’s not the case. When these vaccines were developed there was great collaboration between the scientists, with the companies who are making it and the compamailcommunity.com.au

nies who are doing the distribution.

“The vaccine companies have gone through the proper process to the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration), it was never rushed or anything. The TGA has given the permission as per the routine process rather than any quick process.

“There’s no emergency pathway to get the vaccine through the approval process.

“We have almost close to 30 per cent of the Australian population who have had their first jab, which is well done to them that they have played their part. Now everyone else has to play their part in their community to fight against this virus.”

On one side there is the hesitancy for the Covid-19 vaccine, while there is also a small pocket of the population who remain vocal with their views of being anti-vaccination.

In response, Dr Patil shared the story of a man from New South Wales, who passed away after contracting the virus, but had been eligible to receive the vaccine.

“There is a very clear case, unfortunately this man, who didn’t want it and had the opportunity to take it before the New South Wales outbreak, he died because he didn’t take the vaccine. He was against the vaccine.

“There are multiple examples, just even in Australia, we had the outbreak in Victoria and there was a gentleman in a nursing home. He had both doses of the vaccine, he got the Covid infection but he wasn’t being admitted to the ICU, he had just the normal cold symptoms, which is really great news.

“He had Covid and he didn’t even know that he was Covid positive. It was so light, the symptoms he had.”

Dr Patil also encouraged Yarra Ranges residents to check-in with their family members, in particular, parents and grandparents to ensure they have organised their vaccination or have the relevant health advice concerning the vaccine.

“Ask them to go and see their regular GP to have this discussion,” he said.

And while those under 60 can receive the AstraZeneca jab, Dr Patil said for those interested, to book an appointment with their GP. “We do get people who are requesting for the AstraZeneca and I would encourage them to please go to your GP to talk about the benefits versus the risk and have their vaccine depending on what they and their GP decide.”

The Federal Department of Health has a vaccine eligibility tool that lets Australians know when they can receive their vaccine.

Dr Patil said it’s handy for those who may not realise they are entitled to receive their vaccination due to having another health issue. The tool recommends which vaccine is suitable depending on a person’s potential underlying health conditions and whether their job is in a high-risk industry.

“If you are confused, if you are hesitant, please have your information from reliable sources like your GP. Go and talk to them and then decide what you’re going to do. But I strongly recommend doing your role to protect your community against Covid.”

For more information about Australia’s vaccine rollout and to view the vaccine eligibility tool, visit: https://www.health.gov.au

In response to a number of community consultation meetings, Yarra Ranges council has announced a number of initiatives aimed at improving post-storm recovery.

In partnership with emergency services and state government, council held a number of Storm Recovery Meetings earlier this month to provide an update on storm and flood recovery and hear community concerns.

As a result, council recently announced it is working with state government relief and recovery agencies to provide a coordinated response to the storm. A motion was passed at a recent council meeting to have council officers write to Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Premier Daniel Andrews and numerous senators requesting further assistance for the Dandenong Ranges.

Council assures it is committed to community safety and supporting businesses and will be working closely with businesses to assist recovery. It will also be working with Partners in Wellbeing to provide Yarra Ranges business owners with personal support, financial counselling and business advisory services.

Having visited Monbulk, Upwey, Healesville and Yarra Junction, council officers heard numerous stories of hardship and struggle, taking the opportunity to listen to business owners express what support is needed.

Frustrated and storm-battered residents expressed frustration at business losses, having already suffered 15 months of coronavirus restrictions and lockdowns.

Telecommunications issues were also heavily discussed, many business owners

expressing how they were unable to receive emergency information and were unable to trade due to communications infrastructure being down.

Some things residents raised/requested were: Businesses be provided with more accurate timing for road access.

Township specific resourcing for future emergency events.

Promoting stories of local businesses and what they’ve done to support community during the initial relief and response activities during the storm and floods.

Converting a mobile library to an information centre during emergency events.

Communities will need support throughout recovery but especially when the landscape of each town begins to change people have an emotional connection with country and the trees, when the impact of the storm becomes more visible community will react differently.

As a result of many suggestions and frustrations, council have vowed to establish Community Recovery Committees that will help individuals and communities, including businesses, recover from the impacts of the storm and Covid-19.

Council have also said they will continue to provide the community with relevant and updated information as storm-recovery continues, and will also advocate for better telecommunications infrastructure to mitigate black spots.

If you or someone you love was impacted by the storm and needs help, please call 1300 368 333

· · · · ·

Apply now Lynn Ng – Knox Factor 2020 1st Place, 16 – 25 years

Knox Factor 2021 For aspiring vocalists from 5 to 25 years of age, who either live, study, work or play within Knox.

Applications close 20 August 2021 knox.vic.gov.au/knoxfactor

12501777-BL32-21

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

|

MAIL 5

NEWS

Kitty curfew reconsidered

By Taylah Eastwell Community pressure in Knox has resulted in council reconsidering a contentious plan to introduce a 24-hour cat curfew.

The Star Mail reported earlier this month that council had vowed to implement a kitty curfew from October 1. Over 2,880 local residents signing a petition to have the move amended, slamming the move as unfair and lacking community consultation.

Taylor Ward councillor Darren Pearce introduced a motion at councils 26 July meeting requesting that council receive a report at its August meeting that looks into alternative options for the cat curfew.

The report will look into whether a dual curfew of a 7pm until 7am night time curfew for all existing registered cats in Knox, and a 24-hour curfew for all newly registered cats would be feasible.

Cr Pearce also suggested that the report provide advice on council’s ability to postpone the introduction of the curfew until 28 February next year, when the council’s Domestic Animal Management Plan is expected to be adopted.

“Since the last council meeting I’ve done some thinking myself that we could have come

up with a better resolution, a better overall solution,” Cr Pearce told fellow councillors.

“In this last month I’ve had a number of residents contact me, they’ve been polite, we’ve had a very good discussion,” he added.

Cr Pearce described the curfew as “like a football game - you’re changing the rules at half time with existing cat ownership, and that’s not fair”.

Many residents had contacted Cr Pearce expressing their concern over the costs of keeping their cats enclosed, some estimating it would set them back around $2,000 for an enclosure.

“It’s causing worry and stress anecdotally for a number of residents,” Cr Pearce said.

He said that applying the curfew to newly registered cats would give residents the opportunity to make up their own minds about becoming cat owners, knowing fully well they would need to comply with the new rules.

“I think we need to delay its 24/7 implementation and go back and revisit the community consultation process and the integrity of the feedback,” Cr Pearce said.

Mayor Lisa Cooper welcomed the motion and said it has become apparent that the Knox community is not feeling adequately consulted about the move.

“I think this gives another step in the process which will enable those who don’t feel adequately consulted to participate,” Cr Cooper said.

Tirhatuan ward councillor Nicole Seymour said she still believes a 24 hour cat curfew “is the way to go”.

Cr Seymour said it is “already an offence” under state domestic animal legislation for a cat to roam onto someone else’s property, arguing the 24-hour curfew would be just an extension of laws already in place.

“It does not mean that cats have to be indoors, cats can remain free to roam around their own property as long as they stay on their own property,” Cr Seymour said.

“This policy is asking for cat owners to take more responsibility for the movement of their cats and be confident that your cat doesn’t wander into a neighbours yard without permission and cause nuisance,” she said.

“The 24 hour cat curfew was well intentioned although understandably unpopular by some in our community. It is important that council supports our community as we transition to whatever new local laws we put in place,” Cr Seymour added.

Cr Seymour believes warnings should be given in place of fines for the first offence.

“It should be about education first, enforcement second, and doing what is in the best interest of the health of the cat, the health of our community and that helps address keeping our cats safe from infectious disease, preventing predation on wildlife and reducing community nuisance,” she said.

Knox resident and creator of the petition, Andrew Dixon, said it is not a matter of education.

“Cat owners are well aware of the implications of the cat curfew. We still think it’s heavy handed in its current state despite warnings.

You can give someone as many warnings as you like but it still wont help them afford a cat cage or for renters to get permission to build one,” Mr Dixon said.

Mr Dixon said council is failing to recognise the practicalities of the rules.

“If a cat is allowed outside but not off the property, how do you propose one achieves that without locking a cat inside or in a cage?,” he said.

As it currently stands, feline owners will face $91 fines for first time offences but will be liable for fines of over $500 for subsequent offences.

The matter will come back before council next month.

Children’s creative poem tree sprouts lockdown joy

By Gabriella Payne We may all be feeling the effects of Covid fatigue setting in, but one little girl and her brothers have thought up an ingenious way to keep people smiling through lockdown and created a magical little spot for the community to enjoy in the process.

Shaminka Fernando, a keen, 9-year-old writer from Gembrook has created a special “poem tree” along a popular walking track for locals to enjoy.

The “poem tree”, created out of an abandoned hollow, allows passers-by to either leave their own poem or stop and have a read of some that she and her brothers Minsha (7) and Chash (5) have left behind.

Shaminka said that she had thought of the idea while on a walk with her family, as she loved writing and was sad to be back in lockdown and doing remote learning once again.

“We saw the hole in the tree and we thought we could do something with it,” she said.

Shaminka said that she liked writing poems about nature, so she wrote one and put it in the tree’s hollow along with her little brother Minsha, and they decorated it with a little toy and some leaves for the next person to find.

Shaminka’s mum, Shashika Dabare said that she was very proud of her daughter for

thinking of such a creative community activity and that Shaminka couldn’t stop smiling after receiving such an overwhelmingly positive response from locals online.

“I am really proud of her because she is already writing poems at home and then she thought it would be a good idea when we went for a walk,” Ms Dabare said.

“We’re so happy because all the community love it and we haven’t had time to go today, but she is so excited to go tomorrow and have a look for poems.”

Ms Dabare said that her daughter, who is in grade four at Gembrook Primary School, was often found with “books and pens” in her hands and “she loves to go to school and learn, and that’s why she wanted to do something like this”, she explained.

“Shaminka wrote a poem about a tree, and she is encouraging other kids to put new poems in there, so she can read them and she will add more poems to that tree and they can read them too,” she said.

The “poem tree” can be found along Gembrook’s rail trail walking path and anyone and everyone is welcome to add their own little poem or rhyme at any time.

Shaminka Fernando with her little brothers Minsha and Chash in front of their ‘poem tree’ in Gembrook.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Rising rents cause pain throughout the Yarra Ranges

By Mikayla Van Loon Nationally the cost of renting has seen a staggering increase, to the point where housing unaffordability is pushing people nearer to homelessness.

In the quarter ending December 2020, the Yarra Ranges recorded the highest ever median cost of rent at $420 per week, an increase of $20 on the previous quarter.

This places the Yarra Ranges fourth out of 10 of the most expensive local government areas in Melbourne.

Anchor CEO Heidi Tucker said the other issue in the Yarra Ranges is that there is not much stock in terms of rentals and prices are quite high.

“There’s not a lot of stock, in Lilydale particularly and those urban areas, the stock tends to be one house on a block or maybe a couple of town houses, it’s not very dense and it is ridiculously expensive. I mean I don’t know how anyone [is meant to afford it],” she said.

On the other hand, Ms Tucker said landlords are needing to put rental costs up to help 6 MAIL

|

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

cover the mortgage on their investment properties.

The tipping point in the Yarra Ranges, however, is the lack of social and affordable housing for those doing it tough to fall back on if they can no longer afford rent or to pay their mortgage.

“If you’ve got no back up of social housing, you’ve not got a great situation. It’s not easy,” Ms Tucker said.

The estimated amount of social housing in the Yarra Ranges is around 0.9 per cent and 2016 Australian Bureau of Statistics Census data listed Healesville, Lilydale and Kilsyth as the top three suburbs where people were renting social housing.

“Yes you can see some very luxurious houses and things like that from the road and properties [in the Yarra Ranges] but we have pockets of very deep disadvantage where there’s no jobs, no services and very little transport,” Ms Tucker said.

Rental stress proved high in 2016, with 32 per cent of renting households in the Yarra

Ranges struggling to some extent.

The worst of that was in Warburton with 46 per cent of renters noting payment stress and renters in surrounding suburbs like Yarra Junction, Wesburn and Milgrove were not far behind on 38.6 per cent.

Those suburbs along with Kilsyth and Healesville also had the highest percentage of low income households, meaning they were receiving less than $650 per week.

The cost of renting in 2016 was averaging $360 to $375 per week, meaning potentially half of someone’s weekly income was being put towards rent.

The current average cost of rent in Belgrave is $495, Lilydale $400, Chirnside Park $480, Healesville $410, Warburton $400 and Monbulk $435, according to realestate.com.au.

Country wide, rental prices jumped 6.6 per cent as at July 2021, marking the highest recorded increase in a period of 12 months since 2009.

Everybody’s Home campaigner Kate Colvin said the increase in rent is a troubling sign

for Australian’s already dealing with housing stress.

“While rents have increased across the board, wages and welfare payments have not kept up, putting even more pressure on Australians already struggling to access stable housing,” Ms Colvin said.

“Without access to safe, secure housing, people cannot lead fulfilling lives of any kind.

If we want people to have jobs and contribute to the economy, we must ensure everybody has a place to call home as a starting point.”

While overall Melbourne was the only capital city to see a decline of 1.4 per cent in rental costs over the last 12 months, the stressors of the pandemic possibly outweighed the decrease, putting many on the verge of homelessness.

The full effect of the pandemic on how people are living may not be documented until the upcoming Census in August this year but local Yarra Ranges services, like Holy Fools and Anchor have already started to see how people are on the brink of homelessness. mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Alex on road to success

12477005-JW03-21

LABOR MEMBER FOR EASTERN VICTORIA REGION

Authorised฀by฀H฀Shing,฀216฀Commercial฀Rd,฀Morwell.฀Funded฀from฀Parliamentary฀budget.

mailcommunity.com.au

Foraging for fungi brings joy

PAGE 9

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

Carpark concern

By Taylah Eastwell Upwey residents feel they have been left in the dark about an elaborate plan to turn half the local school oval into car parking.

Residents neighbouring the school grounds received a notice three weeks ago informing them VicTrack would be building a carpark halfway across the oval space as an “overflow” parking area while a new 640-space multideck is constructed at nearby Belgrave station.

Upwey resident Celina Korcak is concerned about losing what she describes as a “community space“ and says there has been a concerning lack of community consultation.

“There hasn’t been any consultation, it’s just happening and no one knows about it,” she said.

“At the moment people use it to walk their dogs and play, so it has been a shared space for a very long time,” Ms Korcak said.

“On a Sunday afternoon, it’s where people meet and let their dogs off and exercise, and this is going to change that whole aspect.

Ms Korcak said the notice from Yarra Ranges Council only gave residents until 21 July to give feedback, however council is still taking submissions.

According to planning documents, the temporary carpark is estimated to cost $2,060,000 and will occupy the eastern half of the Upwey High School oval near Upwey Recreation Reserve oval.

A report by the engineering and construction consultant, GHD, states that the objective of the project is to “construct infrastructure to be used temporarily by commuters during construction of the replacement carpark at Belgrave, while constructing new infrastructure for the Upwey Schools, including foot-

Upwey residents feel they have been left in the dark about plans to turn half the high school oval into makeshift parking. Celina Korcak and her children (centre) surrounded by fellow concerned Upwey residents. 244647 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS paths, fencing, lighting, drainage and an upgraded oval”.

The site is said to be managed by the Department of Education.

“In conjunction with the temporary works, the project is also to allow for the hardstand areas to remain as a permanent feature for

later use by the Upwey Schools and the existing ovals are to be replaced with one larger, upgraded oval,” the GHD document states.

Ms Korcak said at the moment, the view of the oval from her home is as an inviting green space.

“When we view out the window it’s just a

green space at the moment, and a lot of other residents would see that as well. This wasn’t a concept when we brought the property, I know it will be good for the sporting club but I’m not sure what it means for the future,” Ms Korcak said.

Continued page 7

AMANDA CHARLES

Can’t decide whether to sell your home or not.

YOUR BEST OUTCOME IS MY MOTIVATION.

0400 347 968

Results Driven Lives Loves Local.

Contact me, Joseph Licciardi on 0418 509 722 for local professional advice and a no obligation Market assessment of your home.

Mountain Views

Rush to wed

Gun club upgrades

PAGE 5

PAGE 7

Look forward to being of service soon.

76a Monbulk Road Kallista 9755 1888 www.kallistarealestate.com.au

12505383-DL31-21

WE’VE GOT ALL YOUR FIRE PITS COVERED

Cnr Main & Silvan Roads, Monbulk PH: 9756 6306

Tuesday, 27 July, 2021

Mail Reprieve for roos

PAGE 8

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

Valley postcard

By Jed Lanyon The Yarra Valley had a special visitor recently as Hawthorn legend Shane Crawford journeyed to the region for the latest episode of Postcards.

The Brownlow Medal winner made a few stops along the way to the Valley, visiting The Sebel Melbourne in Ringwood, before continuing down the Maroondah Highway to pick strawberries at Yarra Valley Gateway Estate. He capped off a day-trip by enjoying a nice drop at Fergusson Winery and Restaurant in Yarra Glen.

Speaking to Star Mail, Mr Crawford said he is a regular visitor to the Valley and that it makes for the perfect escape from city life.

“I enjoy it anytime I get to work out that way, I’m always discovering new parts. It’s beautiful and connected to the city in that it’s very easy for people to get out there and enjoy all the rolling hills and find all the hidden treasures as you go along.

“I went to Fergusson Winery, which has been there for a long, long time and it’s just a nice little winery on about 10 acres and was nice to enjoy. Even in the middle of winter, I still enjoy going to the wineries and checking them out.

“One thing I’d like to do more is just go exploring. To just get in the car and go wherever it takes me because there’s so much to discover. I know a lot of people go out there to the wineries to have a look around, but I think if you just get in the car and go in whichever direction you feel, you won’t be disappointed.

“There’s something for everyone of all ages from young kids to a couple having a romantic weekend away. It’s like a hamburger with the lot, I suppose it just depends on which direction you go and what you’re looking for.”

‘Crawf’ enjoyed the opportunity to pick a

Thinking of Selling?

Postcards host Shane Crawford and Yarra Valley Gateway Estate co-owner Brett Spurling. basket full of strawberries at Yarra Valley Gateway Estate in Coldstream.

“I didn’t know there were places you could

pick strawberries all year round because it’s undercover there at the Yarra Valley Gateway Estate,” he said. “They have some beautiful

Tammy Manning 0417 534 883 bwhealesville.com.au

brett@bwhealesville.com.au

produce and some really nice people there. It’s something cool to do for the whole family.

Continued page 2

For all your residential and commercial property needs

Call us now we have a backlog of qualified buyers waiting!

Brett Stanley 0407 595 164

T: 0488 179 767 E: ian.vine@eview.com W: healesville.eview.com.au

tammy@bwhealesville.com.au

10-12 Green St, Healesville

HEATING-COOLING-HOTWATER ELECTRICAL-LIGHTING-WHITEGOODS

5962 6500 enquiries@shorelec.com.au

12440694-CG07-20

Tuesday, 27 July, 2021

Lilydale

Postcards tourism boost

Going for gold

PAGE 2

PAGE 5

Mail Reprieve for roos

PAGE 8

A Star News Group Publication

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

12496493-NG22-21

Testing residents

By Mikayla Van Loon Residents living on and near Wyuna Walk in Mooroolbark are outraged after not being consulted about a new drive through Covid-19 testing clinic that was set up in the middle of a housing estate.

A letter informing residents of a ‘proposed’ Covid testing site was received two days after construction had already started on Monday 5 July, with the opening date of Friday 9 July.

Wyuna Walk resident Tom McCausland said only receiving notification about the site after construction had already started was quite shocking.

“The fact that it said ‘proposed’ but it was already commencing, it was like a slap in the face,” Mr McCausland said.

Another resident whose back fence is only metres away from the testing clinic, Cameron Hunter said he was shocked and angered by the decision to put a testing clinic so close to people’s houses.

“The fact that it just blindsided us and came out of nowhere and then just the general lack of consultation or thought for the community doesn’t seem right,” Mr Hunter said.

“It seems like an easy way out for somebody, the line ‘ask for forgiveness rather than permission’ rings quite true with this here, that someone has made a call without consulting the people around them.”

Mr McCausland said there are a number of issues relating to the site but one of the major ones is the potential for increased traffic in a residential area, which is already surrounded by congested main roads.

Wyuna Walk has a number of access points coming in from main roads. The most direct route is by entering off Manchester Road,

Conditions apply

which since the railway construction started, can get quite congested during peak times.

The other two main roads are Mooroolbark Road and Hull Road. Roadworks on Hull Road due to the building of the Kinley estate have reduced it to one lane with traffic control operators and the Mooroolbark Road/Hull Road bridge is notorious for queues of traffic during peak hours.

“If there was an outbreak in this area in the Yarra Ranges, this whole neighbourhood here would come to a complete standstill and you would not be able to get in or out,” Mr McCausland said.

Having contacted Yarra Ranges Council, Mr McCausland said it appears as though a traffic management plan wasn’t completed prior to the site being set up.

“It really does sort of sound like they just put it there and haven’t thought about it properly,” he said.

“I’m not anti testing, I think we do need testing sites but where [it is], it’s in a terrible location which is going to cause a lot of havoc.”

Not only are residents concerned about the risk of increased traffic in the area but the risk of aerosol transmission of the virus.

“The stories that were on the news about the cases that were contracted at AAMI Park and the MCG, there are people testing positive now who weren’t even sitting near them, so that says to me aerosol,” Mr McCausland said.

“And the fact that no one, with a fence line that borders onto it, is vaccinated either, so if you’re going to put a testing site in a residential area why don’t you look at the health risks of what could potentially happen.”

Continued page 9

WHEN ALL SCHEDULED SERVICES ARE COMPLETED AT A MITSUBISHI DEALERSHIP

Hugs for Hugo Melissa and her dog Hugo were snapped enjoying their daily exercise at Lillydale Lake last Thursday. The lake has proved a popular destination during Melbourne’s

We can service your whole families car - all makes and models

latest lockdown as people who live within 5km embrace the opportunity to leave home and stretch their legs. 244792 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

LILYDALE MITSUBISHI 56-70 MAIN STREET, LILYDALE PHONE 9735 5800 LMCT9987

12497602-NG23-21

Come & join our progressive media company working across our print, magazine, digital, social & online platforms.

Star Mail News Group is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

We are currently looking to grow our Healesville based team. Experience is not essential as full ongoing training will be given, however enthusiasm, dedication & motivation are required to join our highly successful sales team.

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business. Applicants will need their own vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter & resume to Tracey Aitken, Group Advertising Manager tracey.aitken@starnewsgroup.com.au

Harriet Shing MP

12505131-DL31-21

Touristnews Yarra ValleY, The DanDenongs anD The ranges

aUTUMn 2021

free

explore Magical MarYsVille Take a DriVe along MaroonDah hWY

aUTUMn geTaWaYs

WINTER 2021

Fun winter

PLAYGROUNDS Parents share their

12506716-AV32-21

216 Commercial Road, Morwell VIC 3840 P: 1300 103 199 E: harriet.shing@parliament.vic.gov.au harrietshingmp @ShingvWorld

PAGE 7

A Star News Group Publication

ADVERTISEMENT

DELIVERING FOR LOCAL COMMUNITIES & FAMILIES AS WE GROW.

Traders feel the pain of lockdown

PAGE 3

12496493-NG22-21

Council is encouraging the community to provide feedback on its Draft Health and Wellbeing Plan, after Councillors endorsed it for community consultation last week.

The draft plan outlines council’s strategic direction for how it can support optimal health and wellbeing in the community.

Mayor of Yarra Ranges, Cr Fiona McAllister, said this final phase of community consultation would be a great opportunity to check-in with Yarra Ranges residents on the plan.

“Our community has great strength, and this has never been clearer than over the past year through the pandemic and then the storm emergency. The context for this Health and Wellbeing Plan is unlike any other, with the pandemic affecting everyone in our community, albeit differently,” Cr McAllister said.

“This draft plan expands on how council will support mental wellbeing which is a major

initiative of the council plan. Social connection, eating nutritious food and being physically active are all powerful ways for us to have good mental and physical health.

“Council’s role to advocate for local needs will also continue.

“With everything that’s happened over the past 18 months, it’s good timing to have this draft plan, which sets out the priorities for the next four years, out for a final consult with the community so they can let us know if what we’ve drafted meets their expectations and needs.”

Residents can view the draft Plan and provide their feedback by visiting https://shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/health-and-wellbeing-plan.

The draft plan is open for feedback until Friday, 27 August.

Hard copy versions can also be viewed at Council’s community links.

Truckies tested by Covid rules

A Star News Group Publication

12496493-NG22-21

By Taylah Eastwell

LOOKING FOR A NEW CHALLENGE? WANT TO WORK LOCALLY?

Tuesday, 27 July, 2021

Mail

12493585-LB19-21

Feedback wanted on plan

Ranges Trader

12501799-JW29-21

11pm on the night it was due. They then guided me over coming months to tweak little things.

I thought they would take the idea and then I wouldn’t have any more to do with it, but I was very much involved in the process,” he said.

“I really thought we wouldn’t do the shot with the dragon because I didn’t think we’d have enough money but the team was very keen to push it and make it seem like a million dollar budget.

12501800-SG29-21

“I’ve been posting my videos on YouTube trying to go viral since I was young, and this is the first thing that’s got significant traction,” Alex said.

Having studied the terms and conditions before entering, Alex quickly realised he could submit more than one entry, and spent two whole days in lockdown pushing out different scripts.

“They picked the last one I submitted at

12500866-AV26-21

Alex Lowes directs his short film as part of the TAC Split-Second competition.

As a freelance film director, Alex used his winnings to self-fund some of his other projects and get them into film festivals.

“The prize money from Split Second was used to fund more of my own stuff and get my current film into more festivals that I don’t think I would have gotten into if I didn’t enter and win the money,” he said.

“I think the main thing about Split Second that I found very helpful is I’ve got a lot of connections now with people who are in the advertising industry and film industry who I can call on if I want advice, and having the prize money was also great to help me fund my own stuff.

Having a young local create the film to shine a light on road safety was timely given two people have died on roads in the Yarra Ranges in the first half of 2021.

A TAC spokesperson said in 2020 eight people died on the regions roads, two of those deaths being people aged between 18 and 25.

“Last year, 155 people were in crashes on Yarra Ranges roads that required hospitalisation, 59 of those crashes involved people aged between 18 to 25 years old,” the spokesperson said.

“Young people are some of our most vulnerable road users, partly because they’re inexperienced and more likely to take risks,” they said.

The Split Second film competition aims to empower young people to connect with peers and send a powerful message about road safety in hopes of saving lives.

The 2021 competition is now open and will remain open until Monday 9 August.. The winning film will be shown before movies at Village Cinemas across the state from October 21 to January 21, 2022.

For more information on the competition, how to enter, and to view past winners, visit tac.vic.gov.au/road-safety/split-second.

12497629-CG24-21

An Upwey film director launched his career during last year’s extended coronavirus lockdown, having won a TAC short film competition and had his creativity screened as part of a road safety campaign.

Alex Lowes entered a script into the TAC Split Second Film Competition - an opportunity for Victorians aged 18 to 25 to submit a 45-second film idea highlighting concerns around drink driving or speeding. The aim of the campaign is to drive change and communicate peer-to-peer with some of the most vulnerable road users in that age bracket.

When Alex found out he had won, he was over the moon.

“It was really exciting. It was really cool seeing it all come together,” he said.

Alex was awarded $5,000 and given a $70,000 production budget to turn his film idea into reality and have it screened across Village Cinema screens state-wide.

His creative short film puts a “medieval twist on the idea of road safety”, featuring a castle, dragon, and a woman who was caught penning a letter on her shetland pony as a spin-off of the typical TAC distracted driver ads.

“I just thought there would be a lot of humour in putting a medieval twist on the idea, every ad I was seeing was modern and contemporary and I thought it would be cool to do the exact opposite of that,” Alex said.

And it worked, with Alex’s short-film receiving over 250,000 views on YouTube and screening in theatres.

“It was really cool the first time I went to see it in the cinema, I sat up the back and could hear other people laughing during the ad which was really exciting because they were just random strangers and it was the first time I’d heard a reaction from people my age,” he said.

12505381-HC31-21

By Taylah Eastwell

SIDE HUSTLES Local couple’s

PREGNANCY BATTLE

AUTUMN 2021 1

www.yarrarangeskids.com.au

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

|

MAIL 7

OPINION

The power and the people At its recent meeting the Yarra Ranges Heritage Network paid me the honor of electing me its new chairman following the sudden passing of our previous chairman Phil Garland. Not many people outside the historical community know of the existence of the network which was formed in 1995 by all the history groups throughout the Yarra Ranges Council.

Its objective was and still is, to bring together history and heritage related groups in Yarra Ranges to discuss and support any projects and issues the members may have and to also liaise with and provide historical information to Yarra Ranges Council staff.

Currently there are more than 15 member groups and together they have achieved much.

It was through their lobbying that a part-time heritage officer was employed. The members also succeeded in having heritage separately recognised and promoted within council’s cul-

Looking

back Sue Thompson

Lilydale and District Historical Society president tural services. More recently, thanks to a council grant, the network published the shire’s first heritage guide. The guide listed a selection of historical features from most towns and areas and was distributed to various outlets. It proved very popular and is now being updated ready for a re-launch.

On February, 16, 1872 the Shire of Lillydale

A brief history of women who report from war zones Once upon a time, women were deemed too fragile, vulnerable, frivolous and untrustworthy to work as journalists, not to mention as correspondents covering wars overseas.

As award-winning historian Jeannine Baker explains in Australian Women War Reporters: Boer War to Vietnam (NewSouth Publishing, 2015), throughout much of the 20th century, women reporters had to “battle the military, the government, newspaper editors and male journalists to get close to the front and to report war from beyond the domestic or ’woman’s angle’”. The book details how women reporters were stereotyped as requiring male protection, unable to understand or accommodate war conditions, having a negative impact on male behaviour, concentrating solely on domestic issues, and therefore being suitable only for reporting from the periphery of operational areas or the home front.

At the time, the perception common to newspaper editors and military and government officials was that war writing from a non-combative perspective was inferior or insignificant. There was also the deeply held belief that women did not belong in the military environment unless they were working in an essential support role such as nursing. Both have contributed to the ways that women war reporters have been defined, managed and remembered.

However, despite the fact that women reporters from Australia and other anglophone nations were only allocated those aspects of war that were previously considered of marginal interest, Baker’s examination of their published writings and private reflections reveals the diversity and breadth of their reportage.

As detailed in the book, these women struggled to break out of their assigned role in war and in journalism, contributing to coverage of the Boer War, the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Other accredited and self-identified reporters hailed

If any director can have a second redemption, it’s M. Night Shyamalan with this characterdriven, supremely atmospheric sci-fi horror film.

Based on the graphic novel Sandcastle, Old follows several families trapped on a secluded beach that causes them to age rapidly.

Old features an intriguing narrative of phenomenal sustained tension.

Shyamalan conjures a mood of dreadful fascination, as we learn about the beach’s mysterious effects at the same pace as the characters.

Fatigue and helplessness weigh visibly upon them as they physically age throughout the film, but their palpable despair coexists with moments of beautiful pathos and dark humour.

8 MAIL

|

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

Members of the Yarra Ranges Heritage Network are: Healesville and District Historical Society, Friends and Relations of Gulf Station (FROGS) National Trust Gulf Station, Lilydale and District Historical Society, Monbulk Historical Society, Mont De Lancey, Mooroolbark History Group. Mt Dandenong and District Historical Society, Mt Evelyn History Group, National Trust: Dandenong Ranges Branch, Running Rabbits Military Museum, Save the Dandenongs League, Sherbrooke Foothills Historical Society, Southern Sherbrooke Historical Society, Upper Yarra Valley Historical Society – Upper Yarra Museum, Yarra Glen History Group and Yarra Ranges Regional Museum.

Contact Sue Thompson, Lillydale and District Historical Society. Phone: 0475 319 884, email: infor@lilydalehistorical.com.au website: lilydalehistorical.com.au

CARTOON

PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN from trouble spots around the globe, including but not limited to Northern Ireland, Libya, the former Yugoslavia, the former Soviet Union, Afghanistan, East Timor, Pakistan, Iraq, Somalia, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, and Burma.

Reading the lived experiences of these women war reporters is to review a brief history of military conflicts and civil unrests across the world. Fortunately, our understanding of war has shifted away from military strategies, technological advances, heroic services and sacrifices, and patriotism-enabled censorship and control by authorities.

Instead, we have learned to focus on the human side of conflict reporting – how the dead and injured are cared for, women and children as victims, the plight of refugees, and the struggle for daily life in a conflict zone. In Baker’s words: “Historically, it is women who have tended to write about these subjects...

There is no doubt that female journalists are just as courageous, and equally determined to get to the truth, as male journalists.”

In short, the careers of these women reporters were shaped by the attitudes of their governments and armed forces to women, journalism, and war. Defiant, courageous, resourceful, competitive and ambitious – sometimes to the extent of being self-important and reckless – their work demonstrated how the (self-)perception of women has evolved through time.

Story that never grows old Old Starring Gail Garcia Bernal, Vicky Krieps and Rufus Sewell Rated M

was created and became the first municipality in the region. Healesville, Upper Yarra and Ferntree Gully – later Sherbrook soon followed.

For a council to be created in those days, 100 people from the area had sign a request via a petition to the Victorian Government. People power at its best.

To celebrate that occasion, members are working on an exciting project: Power and the People 150 Years of Local Government. It will be up to each network group to develop its own display demonstrating how throughout the years local government has worked with and supported the people of their area to create the wonderful diverse communities we enjoy today.

We’ll let you know what is happening in the next few months but hopefully 2022 will be a time for us all to celebrate our heritage, revitalise ourselves and our communities and put Covid and its effects behind us.

The two adult leads (Gail Garcia Bernal and Vicky Krieps) are rather wooden and the dialogue is stilted at times, but rarely to the point of detracting from the drama or pulling you out of the scenario. The rest of the performances are excellent: Rufus Sewell is the standout as Charles, a paranoid surgeon who violently succumbs to dementia, and Alex Woff and Thomasin McKenzie, as older versions of young siblings Trent and Maddox, do a fantastic job portraying children forced to adapt to sudden, traumatic maturity.

The film has a disquieting and potentially problematic sub-plot involving body-horror pregnancy, but Shyamalan handles it tastefully by keeping many of the details implicit.

Old is a small-scale but powerful and extremely eerie experience, and is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

SNIPPETS events are Phone Elly on 0402 429 405.

MAIL SNIPPETS WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HILLS

Rotary market Emerald & District Rotary is hosting another Trash 2 Treasure Market on Saturday 7 August (Covid-19 restrictions permitting).

Held at Emerald Primary School oval, the market will be the last one for winter and the perfect place to take those clothes and knickknacks after a spring clean-out!

Rotary have a special deal this month, with stalls being offered at just $20 each instead of the usual $25. Insurance will remain $10 if you don’t have your own. Rotary hopes everyone will come along and participate either by having a stall or as a shopper and supporter.

For a stall application form email emeraldrotarymarket@gmail.com

Walking and adventure group Mount Evelyn Walking and Adventure Group are looking for new members. The group meet regularly for a range of activities, including kayaking, cycling, yoga, hikes, forest walks, swimming and some fundraising. The group go swimming on Tuesdays and walk Mount Lofty on Thursdays. They also walk Lilydale Lake together on Saturday mornings. You don’t need to be an expert at anything to join. All

Friendship Cafe The Women’s Association South East Melbourne Australia (WASEMA), a registered charity, offer a welcoming environment where all women can relax, make friends and contacts, share experiences, learn new skills and find pathways to connect to services and opportunities through weekly meet-ups at Emerald Friendship Cafe.

The Friendship Cafe aims to build community resilience through increasing the ability of women to connect and support each other through both opportunity and adversity and empower families to identify and provide local solutions to local issues.

The group meet every Thursday from 10am until 12 noon at the Hills Hub, 402 BelgraveGembrook Road, Emerald. Women of all ages, abilities and cultures are welcome to come along and develop friendships while participating in info sessions, workshops, exhibitions, expos, mentoring, coaching and wellbeing programs. For more information contact Anu Ravindernath on 0432246674 or email: emeraldwfc@wasema.org.au

Drivers wanted Are you available Mondays or Thursdays from 1-4pm or Saturdays 10am - 1pm?

Do you have a current working with children check card, or are willing to get one?

Do you have a valid driver’s license and a car with a reasonable boot capacity?

Foothills Community care needs your help to keep up with demand for community casseroles in 2021.

Apply to become a volunteer through the ’Get Involved’ at www.foothillscare.org.au. mailcommunity.com.au

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Lilydale Rotarian Chris Hoskin

Why did you join the Rotary Club of Lilydale?

Like most Rotarians I joined to help make a difference and improve the lives of disadvantaged people in the local community, Australia and the broader World. And knowing that 100 per cent of funds and donations we raise go towards various projects.

What is the best part about being a Rotarian?

Apart from, or in addition to the above is that we are part of a worldwide organization with over one million members all working together with one aim, to improve people’s lives. Locally we do this with funding for a number of Community projects including providing a hoist for the Sailability program at Lilydale Lake and a Shelter for staff at the Yarra View Nursery. In addition to this we run a monthly Craft and Produce Market at Bellbird Park on the first Sunday of the month, this not only provides us with a significant part of our funding, but it acts as our face in the Community.

Another important aspect is the fellowship we enjoy with both members and friends you make when you become a Rotarian What are some of your hobbies and interests?

I have been a member of a number of Car Clubs for over 50 years and still remain active in two clubs, again I have made lifetime friendships with my involvement and interest in car clubs.

I love cooking but recent events have affected having friends and family over for meals. More recently I have joined the Yarra Valley Photographic Society, again I have had a long interest in photography, and I intend to rekindle my interest in it.

What is something people don’t know about you?

I don’t have any secrets really, at least none that I’m prepared to publish! But the one slightly unusual thing is my lifelong affection for cats

Chris Hoskin is a member of the Rotary Club of Lilydale. rather than dogs. Dogs are OK, but Cats are better in my opinion.

Which 6 dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to a dinner party?

Suddamm Hussain, Donald Trump, Josef Stalin, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King and Robin Williams. The Narcissist Vs the Empathetic.

What is your favourite book?

Having never got past the Table of Contents in War and Peace I can’t say that is my favourite.

In fact, I’m not sure I have a favourite Book but two authors that I enjoy are Lee Child and Mi-

THREE … facts about drinking milk

1

Cow’s milk comes from six main breeds of dairy cows: Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Holstein (Friesian), Jersey and Milking Shorthorn.

2

Milk is white because of its fat content. Although milk is composed of approximately 87 per cent water, which is colorless, the fat and protein molecules floating inside it reflect all light wavelengths, making it appear white.

3

Milk will stay fresher if you add salt. Adding a pinch of salt or baking soda to each carton as soon as you open it will keep milk fresh for over a week past its expiration date. The active ingredients preserve the milk, keeping it from spoiling so quickly. You can also pop it in the freezer!

Picture: SUPPLIED

chael Connelly both write good yarns that allow me a means of escape when reading.

What is your favourite holiday spot in Australia?

Over the years my wife and I have been regular visitors to Bryon Bay, we enjoy the relaxed nature and beauty of that part of Northern NSW. However, it is falling victim to its success and aspects of its original appeal are being lost.

What is your favourite food?

Rather than the food it is cooking for family and friends that is important to me, with good company anything (well almost) will taste great.

New chapter for Woorilla

By Maria Millers Poetry has often been thought by some as a marginal art form enjoyed by a select few. Today, however, poetry is alive and flourishing and enjoyed by many whether in its traditional form or repurposed as a vital force by social media and technology.

It is perhaps because in its condensed way poetry not only can capture the beauty of nature and the kindnesses we as humans are capable of but also because it resonates with people looking to making sense of the uncertainties of the world around them.

This year marks the beginning of another exciting new chapter of the Woorilla Poetry Prize now under the auspices of the Eastern Dandenong Ranges Business and Tourism Association.

The poetry prize, now a respected national prize, evolved as a natural progression from

Ĉă

ƁüĽħŵĤ

Ʊ

cally diverse) was established for those whose first language was one other than English. It is so important to listen to the voices of our newest Australians, to acknowledge their histories, cultures and concerns.

Last year with Covid restrictions in place, the prize giving ceremony had to be held solely online. It was a very successful event with participation not just from across Australia but also from overseas. This year we are looking forward to hosting a hybrid event at the Emerald Hub and online.

The Woorilla Poetry Prize 2021 is now open to receive submissions.

For additional information please go to www.woorilla.org.au Poetry has always flourished during such times, so it is no wonder that the pandemic is seeing more people and particularly the young turning to poetry. Some poems, such as the one below, are going viral and enjoying an

online audience never before imagined to be possible.

The Soul Selects Her Social Distance The pandemic has prompted this poet to consider how Emily Dickinson might feel about social distancing.

The soul selects her own society, Then shuts the door.

She keeps her social distance of Six feet or more.

Unmoved, she notes the careless crowd Outside her gate; Unmoved, she notes the feckless folk Still tempting fate.

I’ve known her from those foolish people Choose none Then turn her mind to friends she’s meeting By phone.

- Felicia Nimue Ackerman

¹ĤĈůĈ żō Ŭħýĺ ƁŬ á @ ,, ŬůħŅżĈă ýōŬƱ ōĝ ƱōƁůǧǧǧ

12457333-DL33-20

ƁĈŵăá

the Woorilla literary journal published by Woorilla Writers from 1989 till 2013.The first Woorilla Poetry Prize was held at The Pirianda Gardens in Olinda and supported by Parks Victoria. In 2016 The Poetry Prize joined the PAVE Festival in Emerald, where it again took on another growth period attracting more and more entrants from across Australia and from overseas.

The first judge was acclaimed poet and academic Judith Rodriguez and she remained as the main judge until her death in 2018. Other judges have included Professor Kevin Brophy from Melbourne University and today we are very excited to have the judging wisdom of two renowned and established poets Nathan Curnow and Emilie Zoey Baker.

Apart from the main Open section, in the last few years there has been an emphasis on encouraging young voices and as well an additional category (CALD: culturally and linguisti-

mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

|

MAIL 9

MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Time’s up for funky nails “There’s never been a better time to fix rotten fungal nails.”

Local podiatrists Laura Ward and Tanya Contis are on a mission to help get our toenails ready for sandals and summer.

We caught up with Laura and Tanya at one of their podiatry clinics in Emerald to hear why it’s the perfect time to be fixing toenails so they no longer look like something from the paddock.

“Fungal toenails are really common, over 10 per cent of us have them but not many talk about them due to embarrassment. As podiatrists we’re often providing emotional support for those who’ve been hiding their thick nails as well as fixing them” Tanya says.

While the podiatrists from PridePlus Health are still open for care during the recent lockdowns they’ve had some more time on their hands to develop a new tool for treating fungal toenails.

“The biggest challenge when treating fungal toenails is getting a diagnosis and getting started with treatment” Laura says. “The fungi that cause our nails to go all thick and rotten is contagious and can spread if not treated. By waiting a long time to start treatment, what could have been a simple visit to the podiatrist can turn into months and months of arduous medications and tinctures.”

“So we’ve created a free online tool where people can securely send an image of their fungal toenail and have a podiatrist assess it and respond via email with a plan. We’re aiming to help more people overcome the embarrassment they feel when showing someone in person their nails and so that our community can get started fixing their nails”.

The Toenail Fungus Testing Tool makes it easy to upload an image of your big toenail which comes back with a report from the podiatrists within 24 hours.

Chatting with Tanya and Laura again, they explained why now is the best time to start treatment.

“If you have a significant fungal toenail infection that has been deteriorating for months then treatment can take some time. By starting now you’ll have the cold weather months

when your feet are covered by shoes and socks to treat your toenails. If there’s one thing that encourages fungal toenails to get worse it’s nail polish. Leaving your nails ‘nude’ for winter time treatment will give you the best chance to have beautiful summer feet.”

Tanya, Laura and the entire team of podia-

trists from PridePlus Health in Monbulk and Emerald are available for all your foot care needs. If you’re curious or concerned about the health of your toenails you can use their free testing tool they’ve developed on their website by scanning the QR code or typing prideplus. com.au/toenail-fungus/ into your search bar.

SORE FEET SLOWING YOU DOWN?

EXCELLENCE IN HEALTH & WELLBEING If you have pain, no energy, depression or you’re just simply feeling stressed...

THERE’S A PODIATRIST FOR THAT

SOMETHING CAN BE DONE ABOUT IT!

COME SEE US AT PRIDE YOUR CARING LOCAL PODIATRISTS

Special Offer $20 off your INITIAL Consultation • Iris Diagnosis • Bowen Therapy • Cold Laser Therapy • Remedial Massage • Spinal Care

Private Health Rebates available | Online Bookings now available

Monday - Saturday

Book online or by phone 12493571-NG23-21

• Naturopathy • Homeopathy • Osteopathy • Herbal & Nutritional Medicine • Food & Environment Sensitivities

9068 0966

Contact us at

9755 1900

www.naturalhealingcentre.com.au 8 Mt Erin Road, Ferny Creek 10 MAIL

|

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

Emerald 1 Murphy’s Way

Open 6 days a week.

12505450-SN32-21

Phone:

prideplus.com.au Monbulk 1 Mt Pleasant Rd

mailcommunity.com.au

MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Teghan at work with a client. 200156

Teghan Allan explains the benefits of myotherapy to client Natalie. 199670

Helping to be your best For anyone in need of fixing aches and pains, Teghan Allan from TDA Myotherapy is used to providing results.

She started working with Richmond Football Club in 2019, helping the side claim backto-back premiership glory.

She also puts her talents to use helping AFLW and A-League athletes perform to their best.

Teghan has been running TDA Myotherapy in Monbulk for the past two years and had been in the industry for four years.

She completed her Advanced Diploma in

Myotherapy at RMIT and then became heavily involved in the sporting industry.

She worked at multiple clinics and sporting clubs – such as Lilydale Eagles Football Club and Monbulk Ranges Soccer Club – before settling full-time in her own business and at Richmond.

Myotherapy is the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal conditions.

It involves the manipulation of muscles, tendons and nerves to treat the cause of the pain and not just the issue.

TDA Myotherapy

The practise involves different modalities such as cupping and dry needling as well as deep tissue, soft tissue treatment and much more.

Myotherapy helps treat individuals who may experience chronic aching, arthritic pain, head aches and nerve compression.

Teghan also specialises in muscle tensions, chronic back pain, inflammation, pain and stiffness, stress, joint mobility and flexibility, injury recovery and pre and post natal conditions.

She said she aims to help patients feel em-

powered and return to exercise or daily life without pain.

“I believe the best feature to my business is the ability for me to engage and connect with my patients and make them feel confident,” she said.

TDA Myotherapy is located at 5 Moores Road Monbulk.

It is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm, and Saturday, 10am to 2pm.

For more information, contact admin@ tdamyotherapy.com.au or call 0403 275 987.

To be seen in our next edition of

Moores Road Medical Centre

MEDICA LLY SPEAKIN G Please contact Karan on 5957 3700

Myotherapy is the treatment, assessment and rehabilitation of Musculoskeletal conditions.

As a Myotherapist we help to educate our patients on their condition or pain, we help to empower them to change and improve their current state by not only treating the cause but also treating the symptoms.

TDA Myotherapy now have GIFT VOUCHERS available Contact us now to secure yours.

(I know it’s nothing to do with Medically Speaking but I bet it got your attention!)

Book online at www.tdamyotherapy.com.au

12506657-JW32-21

Or head to the TDA Myotherapy Facebook page.

mailcommunity.com.au

5 Moores Road Monbulk, VIC 3793 Located in Moores Road Medical Centre Ph: 9752 1087 12498121-NG23-21

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

|

MAIL 11

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 040

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

ACROSS

easy

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

2 9 6 1 7 7 3 2 4 9 1 6 3 3 2 4 medium

8

6

9

5 3 2 7 6 4 2 1 7 7 3

QUICK CROSSWORD DOWN

Bale (4) Tenacious (10) Grave (7) Assay (7) Classified (8) Woody plants (5) Route (4) Head of a gang (10) Mocking (10) Couple (4) Disliked intensely (5) Pool water additive (8) Mass (7) – Avenue, New York (7) Forcing (10) Island (4)

1 3 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 20 21 23 26 27 28 29

No. 040

Station (4) Made right (9) Necessary (9) Odour (5) Frighten suddenly (7) Exclusive (5) Bursar (9) Occupations (4) Buys (9) Nice guy (9) Doctor’s conclusion (9) Painkilling drug (7) Pulsate (5) Defraud (5) Impolite (4) 25 As soon as (4)

1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 14 16 17 19 22 23 24

DECODER

No. 040

8 5 3 5 3 6 7 6 2 8 1 7 3

2

hard

4

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10 11 12 13

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

R P 16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

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”.

P

Y

Today’s Aim: 15 words: Good 22 words: Very good

I

C

A

I

3 9 2 8 6 1 7 4 5

4 5 2 3 1 9 8 7 6

8 9 7 6 2 5 1 3 4

H

N

S

3 LETTERS ADO AND ANY ASS BRA DAB DEN DIN DOE EAR ELM END ERA FEN GEM GNU HIP IMP LIP PEG ROT SHE SIR THE TVS VAN 4 LETTERS ARMY BLAB DUPE GARB GLEN HEMP LICE MOOR ONUS PEND REAP RIBS SLOT SPAR TACT

TERM TIES VERY 5 LETTERS ABOVE ABUSE ADULT AGILE ARENA CARVE CHEAT COLIC COMMA CYSTS DENTS EARNS EASED EDICT ENEMY GANGS

No. 040

GLEAM GUILE IMAGE INANE LABEL LAGER LAMER LITHE NUDER OBESE ODOUR OMENS OPERA PARTS RESET RODEO SCALE SCOFF SEATS SEDAN SEEDS

SHUTS SLATS STORY THROB TRUED UTERI WOVEN 6 LETTERS FLASHY INMATE 7 LETTERS AMNESIA HYGIENE

MASCARA MILEAGE MINNOWS SEETHES 8 LETTERS ENTHRALS NIMBLEST STAMPEDE TALISMAN 10 LETTERS AMUSEMENTS OCCASIONAL

apish, aspic, chain, chains, chin, china, chip, chips, inch, nips, nisi, pain, pains, panic, panics, physic, PHYSICIAN, pica, pinch, pins, piny, shin, shiny, ship, snip, spicy, spin, spinach, spiny, yips

1 3 6 4 7 8 5 9 2

6 4 9 2 8 7 3 5 1

3 7 5 9 6 1 4 2 8

2 1 8 5 4 3 9 6 7

9 2 4 1 3 6 7 8 5

5 8 1 7 9 2 6 4 3

7 6 3 8 5 4 2 1 9

7 8 1 4 5 2 3 9 6

6 5 4 3 9 7 2 1 8

1 4 3 2 8 6 9 5 7

5 6 7 9 4 3 8 2 1

8 2 9 1 7 5 4 6 3

9 1 6 7 3 4 5 8 2

2 3 8 5 1 9 6 7 4

4 7 5 6 2 8 1 3 9

9 8 2 3 7 5 1 6 4

5 4 7 6 1 9 2 8 3

6 3 1 4 8 2 5 9 7

4 5 3 8 9 7 6 1 2

7 2 8 1 3 6 9 4 5

1 9 6 2 5 4 3 7 8

2 7 5 9 4 1 8 3 6

8 6 9 7 2 3 4 5 1

3 1 4 5 6 8 7 2 9

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

1

9-LETTER WORD

30 words: Excellent

hard

15

medium

14

easy

Y U S WO I E C Q J Z G T

8 7 2

X L N VMD B K A F H R P

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

WORDFIT

06-08-21

William Matthews Funerals FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

24 HOUR SERVICE ALL AREAS

9739 6868 45 Cave Hill Rd, Lilydale www.williammatthewsfunerals.com.au 12 MAIL

|

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

12410397-ACM06-19

mailcommunity.com.au

SENSATIONAL HOME IN SOUGHT-AFTER POCKET THIS outstanding family home is set to impress from its a circular drive to its sought-after pocket location. Meticulously upgraded and making the most of its hillside outlooks and outstanding position within walking distance of bus transport and Belgrave South village, all this home requires is for new owners to move right in and make the most of the lifestyle on offer.

Perfectly poised upon a near level 1,336sqm (approx.) landscape with double

carport, single garage, and sizeable shed, this home holds the keys to your new way of life. Designed to deliver comfort and displaying the ideal balance of style and substance, there is no denying this residence is rich with appeal.

At the heart of the home, the modern kitchen boasts butcherblock benchtops, gas cooktop, SS oven and dishwasher, and doors that lead out to the covered deck that takes in the delightful view. Sharing an open

concept layout with the splendid dining area and lounge with warm wood fire, entertaining will be an absolute delight.

Enhanced further by double glazed windows throughout, split system heating/cooling, and comfortable bedrooms, including the main with ensuite, walk-in robe, and deck access, this property promises to elevate your lifestyle to an enviable new level. Stylish, sunlit, spacious, and set to a backdrop of beautiful views, prompt

inspection is recommended to call this property home. Plan your viewing today.

Great location near bus transport and Belgrave South village 1,336sqm (approx.) near level block with beautiful hillside outlooks Stylish residence with double glazed windows throughout Sun-filled kitchen with SS appliances, gas cooktop, and deck access Double carport and sizeable shed ●

· · · · ·

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 3 Lockwood Road, BELGRAVE HEIGHTS Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $820,000 - $895,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Brad Conder, 0422 639 115 and Glenn Chandler, 0418 410 689, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE, 97546888

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

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021 | MAIL 13

HOME FOCUS

IT’S GOT THE WOW FACTOR! SHOWCASING a sensational Fasham Johnson design, this contemporary home infuses every space with natural light and valley vistas from atop its private 1,814sqm approx. allotment (near half an acre) while its highly functional floorplan presents the family with a welcome space to relax and entertain.

Carefully crafted to capture the beauty of its surroundings, the home’s internal dimensions create an immediately calming atmosphere with walls of glass, gas log fire and timber ceilings.

A free-flowing kitchen/meals zone is highlighted with a bank of windows drawing your gaze out onto the paved barbecue area

and open lawns. Accommodation includes three or four well-proportioned bedrooms, three boasting built-in-robes including the master bedroom with full ensuite, walk-in robe and clerestory windows for added illumination and star gazing.

Further serviced by a family bathroom, separate toilet, and laundry. Also includes split system air conditioning, kids cubby house, store shed and double carport.

All in a quiet made, no through road , yet very close to the Belgrave township and all its amenities. With only three homes left for sale in all of Belgrave you can’t be too early but you can be too late so don’t delay! ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 13-15 Bennett Avenue, BELGRAVE Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $820,000 - $880,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Jan Brewster, 0409 558 805, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL, 9754 6111

Bendigo Bank’s Complete Home Loan Offers all the features you expect from a great home loan, and some you don’t.

Like super-competitive rates, free redraw and a 100% offset account on fixed and variable rate home loans.

Come home to a better home loan. Search Bendigo Bank home loans

Community Bank - Upwey 9754 1200 - Belgrave 9752 6606 Cockatoo-Gembrook 5968 8831

12506507-BL32-21

14 MAIL

|

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

mailcommunity.com.au

Ranges

We put you first

Time to make the switch?

Do you need a dedicated property manager & a team to back them?

Our team is ready for your call, it is easy to make the switch. 9754 6111

MORTGAGEE IN POSSESSION

BELGRAVE 2 MINTER STREET APPROX 1/4 ACRE! WALK TO BELGRAVE

PRIVATE 2 ACRE ALLOTMENT

$349,000

What a find!! - your chance to build a BRAND-NEW home in Belgrave STCA! This fabulous parcel of land is privately located in Minter Street – vacant land is a rarity these days.

Positioned at the end of a no-through road, not only are you close to Belgrave Township and rail connections to the CBD, but you also have the Belgrave Pool, Tennis, Football, Cricket clubs, Borthwick and Belgrave Lake Park, a variety of schools and the Cameo Cinema all close by. The location is perfect!

Jim Conder 0408 597 558

9754 6111 rangesfn.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

SELBy 24 BATESLEIGh ROAD JUST MOMENTS FROM BELGRAVE

$950,000-$1,045,000 4A 3B 2C 1E

This contemporary home is set within a private allotment that leads down to a flowing creek accessed via terraced lawn areas and a small boardwalk. Inside you will love the beautiful polished floorboards, cathedral ceilings, highlight windows, new kitchen, ample storage, Coonara style fireplace, private courtyard & balcony. Downstairs has a large versatile area which has a kitchenette, bathroom with shower & toilet, plus a separate workshop & cellar, sealed driveway, double carport and a large entertaining area.

Jan Brewster 0409 558 805

“We Put You First”

1 Bayview Rd, Belgrave Shop 2, 24 McBride Street, Cockatoo Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

|

MAIL 15

54 Avon Road Avonsleigh

$950,000 - $1,040,000

15 Daveys Lane Hoddles Creek

$660,000 - $720,000

Ticks All The Boxes!

Secluded Bush Retreat!

This immaculate brick veneer home on a sunny acre in sought after Avonsleigh features a gorgeous outdoor entertaining deck, spacious kitchen with white cabinetry & stainless steel appliances, plenty of bench space with a breakfast bar, & an adjoining meals area with large windows overlooking the deck & established gardens. Beyond is the formal lounge & dining rooms, separated by a stone chimney with inset wood heater. The other end of the house comprises 3 secondary bedrooms serviced by the main bathroom & the master bedroom which has a walk-through robe to ensuite plus split system air conditioning. The acre of land features an almost flat rear yard with a wood storage area & a large cleared area to the side of the home, plus a large 2 car garage with concrete & power, a double carport & an additional carport for the boat or van!

Set on 11.5 acres of natural bush less than 20 minutes from the Gembrook township, this gem with loads of potential sits privately between the ferns. Featuring open plan family, kitchen, and dining room with timber floors, you will certainly feel relaxed with large windows overlooking a landscape rich in native fauna and wildlife. The additional living room is situated at the end of the hallway with access directly to the main bathroom. The home features 2 good size bedrooms plus 2 extra storage rooms which provide the opportunity to create another bedroom to accommodate the larger family.

Outside, the home also features a single carport, chicken coops, machinery storage and plenty of space for the entire family to indulge in outdoor activities, no matter what their interests are!

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

Contact: Bethany Day 0438 884 968 Aaron Day 0407 365 994

7 Naylors Road Emerald

$1,250,000 - $1,350,000

Lot 1 Orchard Road Gembrook

Asking $2,000,000

Rare As Hens Teeth!

Land Opportunity!

This impressive multi-level brick veneer home is situated on a flat ¾ acre in a quiet Emerald location where homes are rarely offered for sale. Featuring 5 bedrooms, master with huge walk in robe and ensuite plus an additional 2 bathrooms servicing the remaining bedrooms, this home is perfect for the growing family or those wanting to work from home. The first level accommodates the kitchen and living areas, while the second level presents the bedrooms, main bathroom with spa, and a large, 2nd living area with access to the huge balcony complete with captivating views to the hills beyond. Outside the grassed yard is fully fenced for animals and children and also features a back decking, water tanks and vegetable patches, triple bay workshop and garage, and additional bungalow with power.

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

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

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

bellrealestate.com.au 16 MAIL

|

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

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!

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

FOR SALE

$820,000 - $895,000

27 Glen Harrow Heights Road, BELGRAVE

$760,000 - $830,000

SENSATIONAL HOME IN SOUGHT-AFTER POCKET 3A 2B 2C This outstanding family home is set to impress from its a circular drive to its sought-after pocket location. Meticulously upgraded and making the most of its hillside outlooks and outstanding position within walking distance of bus transport and Belgrave South village, all this home requires is for new owners to move right in and make the most of the lifestyle on offer. Perfectly poised upon a near level 1,336sqm (approx.) landscape with double carport, single garage, and sizeable shed, this home holds the keys to your new way of life.

TREETOP HOME ON TERRACED GARDENS

4A 2B

3 Lockwood Road, BELGRAVE HEIGHTS

With beautiful treetop views, terraced and fruiting gardens, and easy access to Belgrave township and train station, this impressive property is the trifecta of Hills living. Offering a brilliant combination of features and a unique layout suited to growing families, this home promises to impress in every way.

The entry level of this inviting residence is rich with character and charm.

Brad Conder M 0422 639 115 | E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

Glenn Chandler

Suzie Brannelly

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

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

FOR SALE

$1,600,000 - $1,760,000

106 Mt Morton Road, BELGRAVE HEIGHTS

INSPIRING ARCHITECTURE WITH CITY VIEWS

3A 2B 2C

Originally designed by architects Max May and George Hatzisavas, and inspired by a mix of Japanese aesthetics and Frank Lloyd Wrights “Fallingwater” this inspiring steel, glass and brick home set on just over one acre has been recently redesigned and renovated to a superb standard, resulting in one of the most intriguing and sophisticated residences in the area.

This family friendly Hills property is sure to impress on every level!

Glenn Chandler

Sharyn Chandler

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

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

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

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

|

MAIL 17

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services

www.networkclassifieds.com.au

Place your ad in print and online

V Deadline

V Trades Business Profile

V Excavators

EARTHWORKS ฀ ฀ ฀

Phone: 1300 666 808

TRADES & SERVICES

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

Speak to our classified team and find out how easy it is to advertise. Start building your brand today and be seen every week in Network Classifieds Trades and Services.

30 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE

FULLY INSURED

DIN TREE SERVICE N A W

C1039154-JM27-12

V Asphalting

• RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL DRIVEWAY WASHED OUT?

QUOTES

REPLACE IT WITH ASPHALT! IT WON’T HAPPEN AGAIN! Email: daniel@topcatdriveways.com.au Visit our website at: www.topcatdriveways.com.au • Driveways • Car Parks • Pathways, Tennis Courts, Draining, School Yards, Machine or Hand Laid Asphalt Repairs • Commercial & Domestic • Free Quotes • Timber & Brick Edging

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

Free Quotes

0408 901 088 V Handy Persons

SJC HOME MAINTENANCE ‘Your Local’ Qualified Tradesman House & Property Maintenance No job too small Quality work at a great price, Fully insured

Call 1300 666 808

www.sjchomemaintenance.com.au

V Builders & Building Services

V Electricians

Call Steve 0417 192 009 12415450-FA15-19

V Bathroom & Kitchens

Phone Mike 0419 887 499 www.mjbathroomrenovations.com.au V Bobcat/Earthmoving

Need cash?

(Terms & Conditions Apply)

yes we can

Sell it local

9999-8193

We NEVER

Close

w w w . S e r v i c e To d a y. c o m . a u

Lic No. REC 30504

J.L. Hutt Electrical

A Grade Electrical Contractor “Servicing the hills for over 30 years”

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

Ph: 9761 4092 info@kallistaelectrical.com

12440513-DV06-20

C762441-KK7-10

All types earthworks * Driveways *Site Cuts * Drainage & Retaining Walls Demolition & Rubbish Removal * Blocks Cleared & trees Felled * Firebreaks All types Rock & Concrete Drives, Slabs & Pathways Licensed Operators * Fully Insured * Free Quotes * All Areas www.klplant.com.au A/H 9754 8424 Call Ken

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

SERVICING THE PATCH AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS

V Electricians

Excavators 3 to 20 ton * Bobcats & Tippers * Mini Digger * Augers * Compactors

Pensioner Discounts

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

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀

24 HOUR SERVICE ฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀ ฀

Jason 1300 644 698

General Notices section of Network Classifieds.

12503000-AV28-21

฀ ฀

Hot winter specials

Call Us Today For our FAST FRIENDLY SERVICE!

g All Pricin t Up-Fron

12438941-CG04-20

฀

฀

The Patch Electricians 12358958-PB30-17

฀

฀ ฀฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

V Heating

12451054-SN24-20

Small Job Specialist

section of Network Classifieds.

0412 593 503

V Fencing & Gates

Call Mick 0424 414 495

Employment

EXCAVATIONS CONCRETE * LANDSCAPING * PLANT HIRE

“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

• EXCELLENT RATES

฀

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

Phone Steve Ph: 5968 2508 Mobile: 0417 723 745

12506651-DL32-21

C694915-SJ10-9

0418 327 737

EST. 1984 29 Years’ Experience All work guaranteed

• 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

0473 326 333

Daniel Brown Mobile: 0409 395 635

5968 8493

12499475-CG25-21

• TREES PRUNED, LOPPED, FELLED AND REMOVED • WOODCHIPPING AND STUMPGRINDING • QUALIFIED ARBORIST FREE • PROMPT RELIABLE SERVICE

฀ ฀

S&V RELIABLE EARTHWORKS

From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network Classifieds has been connecting local businesses with the local community with our Trades and Services each week.

12493755-SN19-21

Deadline for all classifications is 4pm Friday.

฀ ฀

1003429-PJ6-12

(1.5% credit card processing fee applies.)

฀

฀ ฀

1178985-CG14-15

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS/BANK TRANSFER

฀ ฀

12456635-CG32-20

We accept payment by:

฀

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

CALL GREG 0438 683 141 OR REGAN 0439 208 693.

CALL AFTER HOURS 5968 3140

Grow your business with

(include your name, address and phone number)

฀ ฀

Gas Ducted Changeovers Split Systems Ducted Refrig

9870 7059 FAIRBAIRNS

PIC: 38148 REC: 17042 AU: 06212

HEATING & COOLING www.fairbairns.com.au Est. 1982

V Painters/Decorators

DANDENONG RANGES PAINTING SERVICE

Interiors • Exteriors 0419 683 392

12503528-HC29-21

Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

฀

12436017-SN51-19

Placing your classified advert is so easy...

12454729-SG29-20

18 MAIL

|

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

mailcommunity.com.au

General Classifieds V Tree Lopping/Surgery FULLY INSURED

The Re-Roof Man

BRUSH STROKES PAINTING SERVICE

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

No job too small

฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀

฀ ฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀

Paul 0418 570 231

MIKE FERNLEY | Mob: 0488 158 556

DIN TREE SERVICE WAN

12402861-RA44-18

All types of Roofs

• TREES PRUNED, LOPPED, FELLED AND REMOVED • WOODCHIPPING AND STUMPGRINDING • QUALIFIED ARBORIST FREE • PROMPT RELIABLE SERVICE QUOTES • EXCELLENT RATES

paulnobes@live.com.au

Lic. 25035 12451591-NG25-20

0473 326 333 Leak detection & repair Valleys replaced Pensioner discount

12462305-LB39-20

Call the team today 0421 574 444

Lic 106275

฀

฀

฀

฀

A.G & E. WILLIAMS

PLUMBING CONTRACTORS 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

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

12450405-AM23-20

LOCAL PLUMBER FAST AND RELIABLE

Lifetime Warranty!

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

$20 MILLION INSURANCE

Plumbing Contractor Reg No. 15348

• 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

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

Mobile 0419 131 958 SERVICING ALL AREAS BOB WALLACE AND SONS

Service

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

BELGRAVE

For all your plumbing needs phone Nick on 0413 422 842

9754 6686 ฀

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀ ฀

฀฀฀

Employment

V Upholsterers

Specialising in Antique Restoration Recovery & Repairs to all types of furniture

V Professional

V Windows

WINDOWS 1

TREE SERVICES ฀

Call

FREE FABRIC PROTECTION *FREE QUOTE, PICK UP & DELIVERY Luke Wilson Mob: 0402 020 554 Ph: 03 5964 2166 12378576-DJ07-18

V Tree Lopping/Surgery

฀

฀ ฀

Call Darren on 0404 040 686

The longer you advertise the cheaper your ad!

☎ 9720 5111

9735 3700

C456410-KK31-6

Sangster’s

YARRA VALLEY SEPTIC TANK CLEANING

12395220-HM32-18

5968 3334 or 0408 335 077 IAN WOODHOUSE

V Septic Tanks

5962 4841 C683684-SJ2-9

Richard - 0419 502 949 Simon - 0417 399 750

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.

www.coincollectandtrade.com • sales@coincollectandtrade.com

• No Fuss • No Mess • No Stress

C936869-KK25-11

FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS.

WANTED TO BUY

12386568-ACM19-18

Lic No. 116785

V Wanted

TREE SERVICES

• LARGE TREE SPECIALISTS • HEDGE TRIMMING EXPERTS • STUMP GRINDING • MULCH AVAILABLE • CONSULTING ARBORIST

12505157-BL31-21

Free Quote Andrew 0408 242 015 www.southerncrossrr.com.au

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

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

DAWSONS

Rubbish Removal & Demolition

9988 9159

V Massage Therapists

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

COIN COLLECT AND TRADE

V Rubbish Removal

Senior discount Cards welcome

ZUMBA GOLD CLASSES Modified for Older Adults.

Tuesdays at 11:30am at THE PATCH PUBLIC HALL $10 - Bookings essential.

Phone Susan 0478 504 441

For appointments call Chris 0438 582 575

10 year Guarantee.

Call now for a FREE quote: 0405 817 173

We Remove Rubbish from your House, Office or Shed Backyard Cleanups of Green Waste, Bricks, Concrete & Soil.

House & Office Demolition Strip Outs & Shed Removals.

V Pets & Services

• Free appraisals and • Unwanted coin or advice given. banknote collections.

• Good service and prices paid.

• Emerald based licensed • Valuation service available. secondhand dealer.

We visit you.

• Medals, Tokens and Militaria.

www.transformedtreeservices.com.au

Alan 5968 5191 Mob 0418 176 159

V Health And Fitness

12496966-LB23-21

฀ ฀

12481756-DL07-21

฀

Window Replacement Service Timber or Aluminium Windows Free Measure and quote

Member HIA and MBA www.windows1.net.au

1238899-CG33-16

฀

Call Chris 0412 099 142 23 years in roofing leaks

฀ ฀ ฀

12447720-LB18-20

฀ ฀ ฀

Rebedding & pointing Skylight resealing Written guarantee

12382862-RA13-18

12424506-ACM33-19

V Plumbing

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

30 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE

12423634-SN31-19

V Roofing

12499475-CG25-21

V Painters/Decorators

12504869-DL30-21

Trades & Services

9703 1530

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

Place Your Classified Ads Online

Your advert will appear in print and online! mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

|

MAIL 19

SPORT

Rovers into decider

By David Nagel Beaconsfield and Upwey-Tecoma battled it out for the right to take on Mt Evelyn in the AFL Outer East Division One women’s grand final after a great day of semi-final action at Upwey on Sunday.

Upwey-Tecoma and Pakenham – the Tigers and Lions – kicked things off at 1pm in the first semi-final with the winner keeping its season alive and the vanquished hanging up their boots for the final time this year.

General play was pretty much even in the first quarter but the Tigers had a touch of class up forward that saw them capitalise on their opportunities.

Jess Occhipinti, who had kicked 16 goals for the season heading into the contest, opened the Tigers’ account with a rushed snap that dribbled through after bouncing at the top of the goal square.

Alex Bantock, who was well held by Lions’ full-back Tash Wakenshaw for most of the game, then found space to take a strong grab and kick truly to give the Tigers a 12-point lead at quarter time.

Occhipinti once again proved the difference in a very even second quarter where both teams had two scoring shots. Occhipinti kicked truly at one end while the Lions couldn’t capitalise on their two opportunities when moving forward.

The Tigers led 4.0 (24) to 0.2 (2) at half time.

Pakenham coach Ian Shaw made some moves at the main break, switching Abbey Tognazzini, Amy Campbell and Lucy Ventham into the middle, while Melina Eppel and Rachel Betteridge were the focal points of a more open forward line.

The Lions matched the Tigers in the third term but the home side’s defence stood tall to repel any chance of a comeback. Eppel kicked the only goal of the second half, cutting the half-time margin, but the Tigers still prevailed, 4.4 (28) to 1.3 (9), at the final siren.

Occhipinti was the difference between the two teams, kicking three of the five goals scored in the match, while Bec Robinson, Millie Samios and Cale McNess will take some great form into this Sunday’s preliminary final.

Despite being down and out at halftime Pakenham showed great spirit to outscore the Tigers in the second half when it would have been a lot easier to roll over and get thumped.

Tognazzini was the clear standout for Lions – across half back and through the middle of the ground – while Ventham, Bianca Moody, Ros Cook, Emily Devine and skipper Chloe Nagel finished their seasons on a high.

Mt Evelyn, the red-hot favourites and totally dominant this year, moved into the grand final courtesy of a 4.9 (33) to 2.2 (14) victory over Beaconsfield in the second semi-final.

Beaconsfield showed some great early determination and held the powerful Rovers outfit in the opening stages of the contest.

The Rovers still led by 10 points at the first change and looked set for a comfortable progression when Matilda Kelly kicked the opening goal in the early seconds of the second term.

But the Eagles have been a solid contender this year and wouldn’t drop away without a fight. A strong mark and goal to Lauren Ho-

Ranges are on a roll

By Jed Lanyon

Mt Evelyn players tune in to coach Steve Varley’s quarter-time address on Sunday. 245862 jnacki cut the margin back to 10 points and the Eagles looked in the contest.

But the Rovers have had all the answers this year, and a quick reply to livewire Kiara Simons saw the Rovers take a 17-point lead to halftime.

The Rovers kicked out to a 26-point lead the final change before Sophie Boneham kicked the only goal of the final term to cut the margin back to 19 points at the final siren.

Eastern Ranges vice-captain Bridget Deed was unstoppable for the Rovers, putting her classy left foot to good use, while Nicole Akers, Isabella Rennick and Savannah Bowden were others to shine on the day.

Charlotte Jagusch and Aimee Buchan did a great job of keeping the best full-forward in the league to no goals, while Vicky Liarakos and Katie Angelis were instrumental figures through the midfield.

The preliminary final between Beaconsfield and Upwey-Tecoma will take place at 2.50pm this Sunday, 8 August at the Yarra Junction Football Ground.

Division Two It was a day of upsets in AFL Outer East Division Two with the lowest ranked teams in both games coming away with stunning victories.

Olinda Ferny Creek is the first team through to the big dance after a 4.8 (32) to 1.5 (11) victory over flag favourites Yarra Junction in Sunday’s second semi-final at Belgrave.

The Bloods set the scene with some great defensive work in the first half, keeping the Eagles goalless to take an eight-point lead to the main break.

Both teams kicked a goal each in the third term before the Bloods produced a stirring final quarter effort to run away with victory. The Bloods kicked 2.1 to 0.1 in the final stanza to book their ticket to grand final day.

Shanae Northey kicked two crucial goals for the winners, while Kiah Burgess and beston-ground Madeleine Collins chimed in with a six-pointer each.

Georgia Page and Sarah Wilcox were best for the Eagles, who will now take on Belgrave in the preliminary final after the Magpies eliminated Officer with a 2.10 (22) to 2.0 (12) victory in the first semi-final.

Danielle Weisgerber and Serenity Connolly booted a goal each for the Magpies, while Sarah Phillips and Rachel Ferguson were the best players around the ground.

DIVISION ONE Second Semi-Final (1 v 2) MT EVELYN 1.4 3.5 4.8 4.9 (33) BEACONSFIELD 0.0 1.0 1.0 2.2 (14) Mt Evelyn Goals: K. Simons, L. Kelly, I. Rennick, M. Kelly. Best: B. Deed, N. Akers, I. Rennick, S. Bowden, I. Urquhart, G. Ploegsma Beaconsfield Goals: S. Boneham, L. Hojnacki.

Best: C. Jagusch, V. Liarakos, S. McCallum, A. Buchan, K. Angelis, L. Hojnacki.

First Semi-Final (3 v 4) UPWEY TECOMA 2.0 4.0 4.1 4.4 (28) PAKENHAM 0.0 0.2 0.2 1.3 (9) Upwey Tecoma Goals: J. Occhipinti 3, A. Bantock. Best: C. White, R. Robinson, K. Oates, J. Occhipinti, M. Samios, C. McNess.

Pakenham Goals: M. Eppel. Best: A. Tognazzini, L. Ventham, B. Moody, R. Cook, E. Devine, C. Nagel.

Preliminary Final: Sunday, 8 August, 2.50pm at Yarra Junction: Beaconsfield v Upwey-Tecoma.

DIVISION TWO Second Semi-Final (1 v 2) YARRA JUNCTION 0.3 0.3 1.4 1.5 (11) OLINDA FERNY CREEK 1.2 1.5 2.7 4.8 (32) Yarra Junction Goals: E. Spicer. Best: G. Page, S. Wilcox, A. Ito, E. Spicer, J. Cousens, J. Mewburn.

Olinda Ferny Creek Goals: S. Northey 2, K. Burgess, M. Collins. Best: M. Collins, C. Hyett, K. Verbakel, C. Yuki, C. Wilson, L. Cody.

First Semi-Final (3 v 4) OFFICER 0.0 0.0 2.0 2.0 (12) BELGRAVE 1.1 1.2 2.6 2.10 (22) Officer Goals: K. Isaacs, M. Davey. Best: K. Davey, M. Davey, N. Holmes, M. Allen, J. Archibald, C. Davey.

Belgrave Goals: D. Weisgerber, S. Connolly.

Best: S. Phillips, R. Ferguson, C. Missos, A. Wilson, D. Weisgerber, S. Hopkins.

Preliminary Final: Sunday, 8 August, 1pm at Yarra Junction: Yarra Junction v Belgrave.

As another lockdown ended, NAB League action returned as the Eastern Ranges Under 19 Boys enjoyed a 27 point win over the Dandenong Stingrays at Shepley Oval.

The Ranges proved their first encounter with the Stingrays last month was no fluke as Eastern pipped them in a two point thriller, won in the dying minutes.

After scoring just one goal in the opening term, Eastern tore the game open by piling on six unanswered goals to turn a 12 point deficit into a 28 point halftime lead.

The Ranges midfield brigade gelled well after missing playing time due to Vic Metro and VFL representation as well as injuries. Captain Josh Clarke collected an equal game-high 28 disposals, while Jake Soligo and Max Hall gathered 25 each and both hit the scoreboard to kick 1.2 each.

It comes as AFL Draft hopeful Tyler Sonsie continues to recover from bruising to his knee, which has seen him sit out for several weeks now.

Eastern’s lead extended to 44 points in the third quarter, but Dandenong refused to go down without a fight and kept the Ranges to just one goal in the final term.

It marked the fourth consecutive win for the Ranges, who were coming off a losing streak of four games. This latest win propels them into finals contention as the end of the season draws closer.

Eastern Ranges: 1.4, 8.8, 12.9, 13.13 (91) D’nong Stingrays: 2.4, 4.4, 6.10, 9.10 (64) Goals: T. Charlton 3, J. Arundell 3, K. Windsor 2, S. Ali 2, J. Soligo, M. Hall, N. Watson Best: C. Preston, J. Weatherill, T. Leiu, M. Hall, J. Soligo, J. Clarke

Nick Watson celebrates a goal.

Picture: JED LANYON

Ranges triumvirate on their way to the AFLW big time

By Jed Lanyon It was a dream come true for three of the brightest young football talents from across the outer eastern suburbs after being selected at the AFLW Draft on Tuesday 27 July.

Eastern Ranges players Keeley Sherar, El Chaston and Georgia Campbell made their way on to AFLW lists after strong NAB League seasons.

Head coach Travis Cloke said he was proud to see three of his players selected.

“It was surreal. To hear Keels, El and Georgia announced as AFL Women’s players. It was a proud moment. I was almost like a proud dad, I guess is the best way to put it,” he said.

“They are three very different athletes but they are all getting the same result. It’s a great 20 MAIL

|

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

message for the rest of our girls on how to push, how to dream for their future years.”

Eastern Ranges co-runner-up best and fairest winner, Keeley Sherar, had her name called out at pick 11 by Carlton.

Sherar, who featured in the Under 19s Vic Metro team, was among the first handful of selections from Victoria. Carlton’s newest recruit put out a video after donning the Navy Blue for the first time.

“I’m so excited to be a part of the club and extremely grateful for this opportunity. Keen to get stuck into it,” she said.

At pick 32, Collingwood selected Eastern Ranges co-captain El Chaston. Chaston’s strong leadership qualities were a highlight during her time with the Ranges, while she also

featured in Hawthorn’s VFLW side regularly.

Chaston said being drafted by Collingwood was ‘surreal’.

“I actually didn’t hear my name get called out, I think I saw it on the tv screen. As soon as I saw that, it was all a bit of a blur,” she said.

“I was pretty emotional. There’s been a lot of work that went into the last 12 months. Especially with Covid and what that brought. It was a bit of a relief and showed that hard work does pay off.

The new Magpie shared her first 24 hours at the club and wasted no time in getting to work.

“I went into the Holden Centre today and got a tour. I got to see all the facilities and the resources and it’s just amazing. It’s everything I could ever dream of and more.

“I stayed on to do a bit of a gym session. As much as it’s amazing to get drafted, now the work starts. It’s time to work hard and put my head down and make sure I get the best out of this opportunity that I’ve been given.”

Finally, as Star Mail reported in previous weeks, Georgia Campbell was taken by Melbourne at pick 41 as the club’s first ever fatherdaughter recruit.

“I’m so excited I went to school today and everyone was super pumped for me. It’s the most exciting day I’ve ever had,“ said Campbell, speaking on Yarra Valley FM’s The Sport.

“To hear my name officially called out was the most exciting thing. I already knew where I was going, but to hear my name was just amazing.” mailcommunity.com.au

12506516-BL32-21

Mail TIP-STARS They are successful in local business... but what do our Tip-Stars know about Footy?

Follow them every week and give them the feedback they deserve...

110

110

87

97

101

Barry Cripps

Ken Hunt

Brendan Cox

Bill Matthews

Mick Dolphin & Emily Hudson

Healesville Toyota

Monbulk Jewellers

Monbulk Bowling Club

William Matthews Funerals

Ranges First National

Carlton Geelong Collingwood Richmond Sydney Western Bulldogs Port Adelaide Brisbane Melbourne

Gold Coast Suns Geelong Collingwood Richmond Sydney Western Bulldogs Port Adelaide Brisbane Melbourne

Carlton Geelong Hawthorn North Melbourne Sydney Western Bulldogs Port Adelaide Brisbane West Coast

Carlton Geelong Collingwood Richmond Sydney Western Bulldogs Port Adelaide Brisbane Melbourne

Gold Coast Suns Geelong Collingwood Richmond Sydney Western Bulldogs Port Adelaide Brisbane Melbourne

Monbulk Bowling Club

Phone: 5962 4333

Phone: 9756 7652

Phone: 9756 6183

108

109

Phone: 9739 6868

Phone: 9754 6111

108

109

87

Ashleigh Skillern

Gary Lucas

Cindy McLeish MP

Clint Rose

George Habib

Yarra Glen Auto

Mark Gunther First National

State Member for Eildon

Clint Rose Motors

Harvey Norman Chirnside Park

Carlton Geelong Hawthorn Richmond Sydney Western Bulldogs Port Adelaide Fremantle Melbourne

Carlton Geelong Collingwood Richmond Sydney Western Bulldogs Port Adelaide Brisbane West Coast

Carlton Geelong Collingwood Richmond Sydney Western Bulldogs Port Adelaide Brisbane Melbourne

Phone: 5962 3030

Gold Coast Suns GWS Collingwood North Melbourne Sydney Essendon Port Adelaide Brisbane Melbourne

Clint Rose Motors

Mark Gunther

Phone: 9730 1844

Carlton Geelong Hawthorn Richmond Sydney Essendon Port Adelaide Brisbane Melbourne

Phone: 9730 1066

Phone: 5962 3144

Chirnside Park

Phone: 9722 4400

FIXTURES - ROUND 21 TBC ...................................................................... Carlton vs Gold Coast Suns TBC ....................................................................................... Geelong vs GWS TBC ........................................................................ Hawthorn vs Collingwood TBC .................................................................Richmond vs North Melbourne TBC ....................................................................................St Kilda vs Sydney

TBC ............................................................................. Fremantle vs Brisbane TBC .........................................................................West Coast vs Melbourne

Chirnside Park

It might be my toy, but I take its care seriously.

So does Bosch Car Service..

• Full service and repairs for all European models • Quality Bosch spare parts stocked and supplied

Clint Rose Motors 5962 3144 189 MAROONDAH HIGHWAY HEALESVILLE 5962 3030

5 Hunter Road, Healesvile VIC 3777

For everything your car needs.

mailcommunity.com.au

MAJOR SPONSOR

Free Pickup Available

FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS 12493565-NG19-21

At Mark Gunther First National Real Estate, we always aim to provide the best possible service and a consistent range of high quality Residential, Rural and Lifestyle Properties, Marketing, Sales & Rentals to our clients at all times.

TBC ........................................................................ Adelaide vs Port Adelaide

12492435-DL18-21

Mark Gunther

TBC ................................................................ Western Bulldogs vs Essendon

286 Maroondah Hwy, Chirnside Park

Ph: 9722 4400 12493564-SN19-21

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

|

MAIL 21

ALL REVVED UP

A mechanic on the move Easy E’s Mechanical is a mobile mechanic service that comes to you.

Owner Emmanuel Damoulakis travels all over the South East to homes and workplaces with his mobile service.

Emmanuel offers log book servicing, diagnosis and general maintenance of cars, trailers and caravans.

He can also fit child restraints and service and regas airconditioning systems.

After each service Emmanuel will disinfect the interior of your vehicle following health and safety guidelines using a plant based disinfectant.

Emmanuel has more than 10 years’ experience as a mechanic servicing multiple makes and models.

His new business has already attracted positive Facebook feedback.

Satisfied customer Brian Dickson wrote on a Facebook review - “I had Emmanuel come to do a 150,000km service on my Ford Ranger and he was great, punctual, explained everything, even pumped up my spare tyre. I would highly recommend him.”

Another customer Shushi Mar said she was very impressed writing that Emmanuel was on time, friendly and professional.

Tyrone Oliver had Emmanuel service his Subaru.

“Best my car has driven since I had it. He changed filters I didn’t know were in the car and did a thorough job. Highly recommended and a great bloke to boot. Give him a call I’m sure you will be more than happy.”

To book an appointment with Emmanuel phone him on 0435 225 564.

Easy E’s Mechanical will come to you.

To be a part of this feature, call us on

5957 3700 to find out more 12506732-NG32-21

12506390-CG32-21

All Service and Repairs

22 MAIL

|

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

12506418-JW32-21

SAVE TIME, SAVE MONEY, WE COME TO YOU

TEXT OR CALL

0435 225 564

Find us on facebook

mailcommunity.com.au

ALL REVVED UP

Expert advice, service Milsome’s Auto Paints is a family-owned and operated auto paint business that started in 1990.

Since its inception, the company has been committed to supplying only the best quality service and value for both the trade and DIY markets, all at trade prices.

Milsome’s specialises in automotive and industrial coatings, tools, spray painting and safety equipment along with panel beating supplies.

The business also offers a colour matching service that has attracted clients from around Australia and New Zealand.

Milsome’s has serviced the automotive industry since 1970, initially through a panel beating and spray painting shop and then through Milsome’s Auto Paints store in 1990.

The team’s 50 successful years within the automotive industry has given them the knowledge, expertise and experience not only to provide great product and service, but to also provide the right guidance and advice to the DIY market.

The Milsome’s mission is to offer its customers quality products and a service that cannot be beaten and it accomplishes this by having expert staff with a wealth of knowledge across different industries, as well as a wide range of quality brands, paints, safety equipment, tools and accessories.

“We strive to provide our customers with a professional service with the right product, the right advice and expert knowledge to give our DIY clients the confidence to carry out repairs and restorations that you can rely on and trust,” the team said.

Milsome’s Auto Paints is a one-stop-shop with friendly experienced staff ready to help

Milsomes Auto Paints. Sharnie and Chris. 204097 customers with various projects, from outdoor furniture, household appliances, pushbikes, model trains/planes/cars to boats, cars, trailers and more.

“Our knowledge of the industry and be-

ing able to walk our customers through the various stages of the repair process is our strength,” the team said.

To find out more about Milsome’s Auto Paints, visit www.milsomesautopaints.com.au

or look them up on Facebook and Instagram.

The Milsome’s team is happy to provide guidance on any painting project. Speak to one of the experts on 9752 2544 or in person at 718 Burwood Highway, Ferntree Gully.

OMEGA

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR YOUR PRIDE & JOY

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE CENTRE

Family owned & operated, Milsome’s Auto Paints in Ferntree Gully offer a massive range of quality automotive and industrial coatings, armed with expert advice and service for the DIY Market!

Come to us for our amazing eye-matching service, trade specific tools like sprayguns & accessories, abrasives, safety equipment, and so much more!

Milsomes Auto Paints | 9752 2544 718 Burwood Highway, Ferntree Gully VIC, 3156

• Changeover auto transmissions 12451584-NG25-20

• Front wheel drive transaxles • Electronic transmission diagnostics

YOUR LOCAL HILLS PROVIDER OF

Smash Repairs & Towing

• Differentials

12505878-LB32-21

WWW.MILSOMESAUTOPAINTS.COM.AU

• All mechanical repairs and servicing • Manual transmissions

GEMBROOK & EMERALD SMASH AND MECHANICAL REPAIRS

MONBULK SMASH REPAIRS

EMERALD TOWING

42 Main Rd., Gembrook Ph 5968 1202

14-16 Main St., Monbulk Ph 8736 8238

Ph 5968 1202

mailcommunity.com.au

12505909-SN32-21

• Quality workmanship

76 Main Street, Upwey Ph: 9754 7533 David and Lisa Clark Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

|

MAIL 23

12505394-AV32-21

24 MAIL

|

Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

mailcommunity.com.au