Mail - Lilydale Star Mail - 30th November 2021

Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

Lilydale

Mail

Preparations begin for the Christmas Market

Lilydale Community Garden hosts its open day

Lilydale Community House opens the doors

Unemployed youth learn vital jobs skills

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A Star News Group Publication

Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808

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Christmas is coming Nothing quite beats the smell of a lush green pine tree at Christmas, decorated with shiny ornaments and twinkling lights.

For the people choosing the tree, it’s about finding the right size, shape and smell in just a small amount of time.

For those who grow the trees, the entire year leads up to the opening of the gates.

The nerves, stress and excitement had settled in for the Mazzella family last week as they prepared for their Christmas tree sales.

Read more on page 4

Steph and Anthony were nervous but excited to be opening the doors to the Christmas Tree farm on Friday. Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

Dwelling debate

By Mikayla van Loon Two housing developments in Lilydale have been approved by Yarra Ranges Council after much debate and objection from local residents.

The properties at 17 and 21 McComb Street Lilydale will both see 13 two storey dwellings built on the blocks of land.

Over 40 objections were received by the council for both developments, meaning the

decision fell into the hands of the councillors.

Resident Paul Di Ludovico spearheaded a petition and spoke at the council meeting on 23 November against the motion to approve the planning application.

“I’ve been a local resident of these particular streets for 46 years, and my direct family for close to 70, still own a lot of the subdividable blocks that are in this area,” he said.

Mr Di Ludovico said according to the council’s development vision, houses need to suit

the existing houses in the area and keep to the Shire’s values on housing.

“I find that this isn’t actually happening.

The developments that are on McComb street don’t look anything like what we have on other streets,” he said.

Apart from these two planning applications, there are provisions for similar developments at 13 and 15 McComb Street, with 13 townhouses also under construction at number 19, bringing the total number of units

close to 50.

“To me that’s a serious oversight of what we’re trying to create in this area. I don’t think we need that extent of development. The neighborhood is changing. Yes, I understand that.

“We still need to enforce the design incorporated with the existing streetscape, meaning pre existing single and double storey developments, especially along this area.”

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NEWS

IN BRIEF

Proposal presented

By Renee Wood

Road works and closures

Karuna Jones presented a proposal to Yarra Ranges council at the Tuesday 23 November council meeting.

“I believe that this is a really successful project and it was also for the same demographics of single mothers and women over the age of 55.”

Councillors were very pleased with the presentation and supportive of Miss Jones’ proposal, saying homelessness is an issue they want to tackle together.

“Our director, Ms Jane Price, would like to have a chat with you as well to see how council can be involved with you and do an appraisal of what you’re putting forward,” Mayor Jim Child said.

“You should think about running for council at some point, I’m just going to throw that in there, with that type of thinking and your presence in the way that you presented to-

night, it was just wonderful,” Councillor Fiona McAllister said.

Councillor Tim Heenan also responded saying Councillor Sophie Todorov and himself would like to sit down and further discuss Miss Jones’ proposal.

“I’m been very passionate myself over many years of homelessness and in particular, the disadvantages of women that exist, and particularly single mums that have children as well,” he said.

Councillor David Eastham said, “It’s my first term as a councillor but I’m realising there are a few moments that are very memorable and I think this will be one of them, but I’m very interested to see where this passion and talent takes you.”

Townhouses spark councillor debate From page 1 Another of Mr Di Ludovico’s major concerns related to the level two access classification of the street, meaning the council is allowing for up to 3000 cars to use it each day.

“The street has less than 1000 vehicles a day use it. This isn’t Beresford Road or it isn’t Cave Hill Road. This street can’t sustain that many cars. If you think it can sustain that many cars then we need a traffic management assessment done on it.”

Director of Planning, Design and Development Kath McClusky said a traffic management assessment would not be needed until the use of the road changed significantly.

She also said the number of townhouses proposed in these builds comply with the guidelines and fall within the highest density residential growth zone area in the Shire.

Duncan van Rooyen spoke on behalf of the applicant and said he could understand the residents’ hesitancy to the changes hap-

Houses of a similar design will be built at both 17 and 12 McComb Street.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON pening in their local area.

“I think it is important to acknowledge the area is undergoing significant change and will continue to do so given the changing demographic and very high demand for housing in the area, especially for sites such as this that are so well located to public transport, shops and local services,” he said.

Mr van Rooyen said many of the developments of a similar nature have been purchased by first home owners and that these townhouses will cater to that same market.

Councillor Len Cox moved the motion to approve the development of 17 McComb Street which returned a split vote with Melba Ward councillor Sophie Todorov speaking against the motion.

“I do feel it is also necessary to challenge these planning proposals to highlight potentially unforeseen detrimental impacts to these neighbourhoods at the coalface,” she said.

Ultimately it was approved five votes to three.

Councillor Fiona McAllister moved the motion to approve the development of 21 McComb Street, saying it complied with the guidelines and therefore, the only way changes to the building of townhouses like this would be to change the planning scheme and housing strategy.

The vote was again split five to three, with local ward councillors to the Lilydale area, Richard Higgins, Tim Heenan and Sophie Todorov voting against the motion.

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Community recovery hubs With the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, Yarra Ranges Council will now be conducting community consultations on the recovery from the pandemic and storms.

The Community Recovery Hubs will be hitting the road in the next few weeks to allow community members to speak to council staff and support agencies about their storm recovery needs.

Montrose will be on of the first towns to host a Hub, with staff attending the Montrose Community Market on Saturday 4 December from 9:00am to 1:30pm.

Mount Evelyn residents will be able to meet with council staff at the rotunda behind Mt Evelyn Community House (50 Wray Cres, Mt Evelyn) on Tuesday 7 December 2:30pm to 6:30pm.

CovidSafe practices will apply to each Hub. For more information please contact communityrecovery@yarraranges.vic.gov.au or call the Community Recovery team on 1300 368 333.

Lilydale CFA crews have had been busy responding to call outs of all shapes and sizes over the last week.

In total, the fire brigade responded to six jobs including: 28/11 Shopping center alarm, Chirnside Park 26/11 powerlines down and sparking, Mooroolbark 25/11 Column of smoke, Coldstream 25/11 Shopping center alarm, Chirnside Park

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Road works and garden maintenance are happening all throughout the Lilydale, Mooroolbark and Chirnside Park area this week.

From Tuesday 30 November to Monday 6 December, night works on Hull Road will get underway from 8pm to 5.30am.

Branch trimming along Maroondah Highway from Sunday 28 November to Thursday 2 December may slow traffic between 8pm and 6am.

Traffic will slow to 40km/h when approaching and going through the rail bridge at the Lilydale crossing as station works continue.

The northern section of the Main Street service road in Lilydale will also see changed traffic conditions, with entry from the old bus interchange end will be closed from Monday 29 November to Monday 13 December.

Access via the Olinda Creek Hotel end will be controlled by traffic managers to allow entry and exit via the same roadway.

Pedestrians may experience intermittent disruptions at the entrance to the eastern station car park.

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Police are investigating after a fatal crash in Lilydale occurred over the weekend.

Emergency services were called to Erldunda Court on Saturday 27 November about 3pm following reports an electric scooter crashed into a timber bollard.

A 60-year-old Chirnside Park man was treated at the scene by ambulance paramedics.

Sadly, he died at the scene.

The exact circumstances surrounding the crash are being investigated.

Investigators are appealing for anyone who witnessed the crash or with further information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

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A year twelve student has presented a proposal to Yarra Ranges Council at the Tuesday 23 November council meeting to address women’s homelessness in the region.

Little Yarra Stiener School student Karuna Jones put forward her senior research project, discussing the growing need for more social housing to support women in need.

Part of Miss Jones’ proposal includes the use of council land that would be suitable for housing developments in Lilydale and Mooroolbark to improve access and affordability of housing for women.

Miss Jones’ research findings included the community’s support for local housing through a survey, the need for social housing for women, at least three sites suitable for social housing in the LGA, examples of good designs and how social housing would align with the council’s health and wellbeing strategies.

“I feel really passionate about the needs of housing in our local community, and particularly around homelessness, and specifically women’s housing needs. So what I have achieved this year is a report style proposal, looking at how council has a role in creating social housing as a solution to this housing crisis that we’re facing,” Miss Jones said during the meeting.

Miss Jones discussed how the 2016 census data underestimates the homeless crisis.

“I’ve spoken to a number of housing providers who have also shared this is more of an issue then it’s been documented, and that Covid has had a strong impact. So I’d really like to see action being taken on this.”

Referring to a project that was delivered on Moreland City Council land by the Women’s Property Initiative.

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Market with lots of xmas cheer

By Mikayla van Loon

Steph and Anthony have started to take over the Christmas tree farm as their father Carlo starts to slowly step away.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON

Picking the perfect tree this Christmas

By Mikayla van Loon It’s getting close to Christmas when it’s nearly time to pick that perfect tree to decorate.

For the Mazzella family from Montrose Christmas Tree Farm, the year round work comes down to a single moment.

On Friday 26 November, Anthony, Carlo and Steph opened the gates to the expected long line of cars waiting to choose the tree they wanted to take home.

Each year, Carlo said they would sell up to 1200 trees, a number that has grown year on year.

“Not every tree sells because sometimes there are some that are not very saleable. So we probably sell around 1000 to 1200,” he said.

Last year those trees sold out before December and Anthony was expecting the same thing to happen this year.

“I think as well last year with Covid everyone was at home so they thought let’s try a real

Christmas tree, so hopefully it’s the same this year,” he said.

The team at the Christmas tree farm have had their work cut out for them though after the months of heavy winds and storms pushed some trees to 45 degree angles.

“We ended up having to straighten them up and compact the soil around them again.

So it did create havoc and it did make life very tough for us. It created a lot more work than we would have in a normal year,” Carlo said.

But through all of that a new crop was still able to be planted and will be ready in four years time.

Carlo said everyone has a different idea of what makes the perfect tree but for him it is the shape, colour and smell.

“We grow Pinus Radiata which has a beautiful smell about it and people always comment on when they take it into their house just how lovely it smells.”

While an exciting time of year for the family,

Steph said it can be a little bit nerve wracking and stressful but it is all worth it.

“It’s a bit stressful because you spend all that time getting everything ready and prepared for such a short time but it’s definitely good to open up and then see everyone’s happy faces when they come through because it’s one of the happiest times of the year,” she said.

Never wanting to disappoint anyone, Carlo said it can be hard to see families miss out once all the trees are gone.

“It is a big responsibility actually, because people look forward to this for a long time and they want to come and get what they would feel is the perfect tree and it’s our responsibility to produce what they are going to consider to be the perfect tree.

“So we take that very seriously. We hate to see people disappointed and unfortunately every year because we do sell out, some people will be disappointed because they’re going to miss out.”

25 years of Montrose Christmas Tree farm

By Mikayla van Loon Getting into the Christmas tree farming industry might seem like quite an unusual business venture but for Carlo Mazzella it was a way for him to put his Montrose land to good use.

It was close to 25 years ago when Carlo had the idea of growing some Christmas trees and to let people come and purchase them in the lead up to Christmas.

“I don’t even remember exactly how the idea popped into my head but I was talking to somebody and said, ‘I wouldn’t mind trying to grow a few Christmas trees and inviting people to come over’,” he said.

“At the time I didn’t realise there was already an industry anyway, I just didn’t know about it.

So I kind of had the original idea except somebody else had already thought of it.”

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Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

Avenue in Montrose, Carlo said he felt as though he was in a good location for planting the trees.

“We’re in an area where we’re close enough to suburbia and yet we have open land to be able to do it. So I just thought it would be an ideal thing to start.”

Carlo said in his first crop of trees he had planted around 50 just to test out demand.

“It’s grown a lot since then. I started very small just to see whether it would work and then when I realised that there was a need, then we got a little bit bigger.”

Since then the farm has grown significantly, with four plots growing at any one time, all of different heights to ensure there are trees ready each year.

Slowly but surely, Carlo is stepping away from the Christmas tree business and is handing the reins over to his children Anthony and Steph.

“Steph and I jumped in probably about 10 to 12 years ago. Dad was thinking about stopping and we had the opportunity to take over and so we thought, ‘why not, may as well’,” Anthony said.

Growing the Christmas trees in Melbourne’s weather, Anthony said, is always a challenge, not knowing how the season is going to go.

“Each year has been so different. We don’t really stick to a schedule on when we prune and all that because each season is always different.

“It’s always hard to gauge. We have a rough idea when they need to be pruned and sometimes you get to a point and you go ‘it hasn’t been warm enough, we need to wait a little bit more’.”

The next crop has just been planted to be ready for sale in four years time.

One of the biggest twilight markets Cire Services has ever held is coming to Chirnside Park this week.

On Friday 3 December over 90 stall holders and food trucks will gather both inside and outside for the community to browse.

Mandy Stokes from Cire said everything from candles to succulents and lots of plants will be available, with lots of activities and entertainment for children, like a petting zoo and buskers.

“You can shop for Christmas, you can shop for end of year teacher gifts and things like that,” she said.

“We’ve got such an array of small local businesses coming and I think that’s what we’re probably the most proud of the fact that we’re able to support the community in this way whilst they’re also supporting us.”

Although Cire usually hosts three twilight markets a year, the Christmas market couldn’t go ahead last year because of restrictions and Ms Stokes said the interest from people already has been amazing, with an expected 1800 people to wander through the market over the night.

“We’re expecting it to be a highlight of the community events. This season particularly because it’s been such a long time since everybody’s been able to get out and about,” Ms Stokes said.

“One of the things about lockdown is that it gave people that appreciation of actually just being outside and being able to go and enjoy things like this, so we’re really keen to see how many people come to the market.”

Yarra Valley Singers will also be there spreading some Christmas joy with the sweet, sweet sound of carols.

As a registered charity, the Christmas Twilight Market serves as one of Cire’s largest fundraising events for the year to financially support youth, the elderly and all other programs within the organisation.

The market is also about welcoming people back to the Chirnside Park Community Hub and to show that the Hub caters for all people in all demographics, whether it be to collect or return a book from the library, have a cup of tea or join a program.

“What I’m hopeful for is that people won’t only come to the market but when they get to the market, they’ll be able to see what else we can offer them within the community.

“And bring them back to the hub so it can become a place where they feel happy and safe and comfortable to attend and become part of their regular routine.”

The market opens at 5pm and runs until 9pm at 33 Kimberley Drive, Chirnside Park. Stalls will be both inside and outside, to attend the inside section of the market, proof of full vaccination is required.

The Yarra Valley Singers will be in Chirnside Park on Friday to sing carols as people shop at the Twilight Market.

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NEWS

Open day for garden club

By Mikayla van Loon After a long wait, the Lilydale Community Garden group was finally able to host its open day event, to welcome people to the space and show off the fresh produce that has been growing.

Although grey and ominous clouds circled above, the garden club was free of rain as they hosted demonstrations for the local community on Thursday 25 November.

Passersby stopped to say hello and a number of members from other community groups also helped the garden committee officially open the space for use outside Bunnings.

For members of the garden club, getting to share their passion with others, socialising with people who have similar interests and being able to get out after being locked up made the day even better.

Ken Garrett said it was great to be able to host the first event at Bloom on Main Street and to see people interested in what they are doing.

Mr Garrett joined the club because he’d always had an interest in gardening and for him it just felt like a natural fit.

“You learn a lot talking to different people because we all have different interests and we grow different plants,” he said.

“So to talk to other people say, ‘Hey, I’m having a problem with this’ and somebody will say, ‘Yeah, I’ve had that problem. This is what I did about it.’ So it’s an exchange of information but mainly I think it’s just a social thing.”

Apart from a little bit of wind damage to the sweet peas and broad beans the garden beds were in full bloom and looking bright.

Drawing on the colour of the gardens themselves, Helen O’Shannessy took people back in time as she created herb posies with various flowers from her own garden.

“They are called tussie mussie and they

Wendy Duff demonstrates how basket weave using a technique called coiling. 259514 used to carry them over in the Victorian era in England because of the plague and smells and the horrible stench around,” she said.

“So the women used to tie a little one of these on their wrists with the fragrance of the herbs to keep the plague and the smells away.”

Although busy demonstrating how to make the posies, Ms O’Shannessy said being able to talk to people as she went was wonderful.

“Getting involved in this is lovely because it brings people out to have a chat, talk about gardening and people that are keen on gardening, we all get together and it’s just so easy, we enjoy each other’s company.”

Wendy Duff also drew a crowd as she

showed people how to weave baskets with materials from the garden, like corn husks and grasses.

While her interest lies in gardening, Ms Duff also enjoys using every part of a plant not only to weave but to use as dyes.

“That’s my real interest, plant dyes and I just brought that into the basket weaving,” she said.

For Ms Duff, the decision to join the garden group was just an extension of her passion for gardening.

“I like the idea of there being a garden in Lilydale, I think it’s very nourishing for people.

It’s a very good, healthy social activity,” she said.

Garden committee member Benson Bannon was overjoyed with the number of people who turned up to the open day. 259514 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS “In the garden group everyone’s interested in plants and gardening and so although we are a new group and we don’t know one another that well, in a social sense, we are all working together and talking about what we can do with certain plants.”

Ms Duff said during lockdown, she also noticed that the gardens have become a popular spot for people to sit and have a coffee or lunch and she hopes the community will continue to use it in this way.

“It just feels safe and it’s a nice place to be.

The fact that it’s a garden and the plants and the flowers, if it was just seats I don’t think it would be as welcoming for people.”

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Jobs jump start for youth

By Mikayla van Loon A group of young people have just completed a four day introduction to the hospitality industry in an effort to prepare them for getting into the workforce.

The partnership between Yarra Ranges Council, Box Hill Institute and Cire Services saw 13 enthusiastic young people take part in kitchen skills and front of house training.

Graduates from the course were celebrated for their initiative and drive by being part of a morning tea on Friday 26 November where industry partners from wineries, the tourism sector and restaurants could potentially scout for employees.

Recent high school graduate Erin Becker, 18, said one of the appealing factors of taking part in the Hospitality Jump Start for Jobs program was her desire to learn to talk to people, build her confidence and gain some qualifications.

“It was a really good jump start, hence the name to get some good qualifications such as hygiene and food safety and we learnt a lot about the kitchen and dangers around foods which I didn’t know about before and the RSA which is a really good qualification to have,” Erin said.

“So that aspect and also just getting some confidence which I have gotten from here and just to get out there because I graduated this year. I want to get better at talking to people and stuff like that and just get out there.”

For 15 year old Tiarey, the prospect of getting a part time job is daunting and through learning these essential and baseline hospitality skills, she hopes it will help her find a job.

Having now completed the course, Tiarey is excited about joining the hospitality sector and where it might lead.

“I enjoy talking to new people. I think it’d be a fun experience and add to my resume for the future,” she said.

Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child said this project was an important one for the council to help with the pandemic recovery and to facilitate the connection of young people with jobs in the shire.

“To go for a job it’s a daunting process, and you can be frightened away from that process but if you’ve got the confidence and you’ve got some of the skills necessary for that job, well,

Young people took part in a week long training course to learn about the hospitality industry in the hopes of getting a job in the sector.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON you’re well on the way to get that job,” he said.

“In the Yarra Valley and also our urban areas the hospitality sector has so much to offer because that tourism piece within the Yarra Ranges is so important, and brings so much revenue back into the municipality and these young people are going to play a very important part in that.”

For restaurateurs and managers in the hospitality sector, finding staff over the last few months has been particularly challenging.

People and culture manager for Balgownie Estate Kate Fraser said the post-Covid climate is completely different to anything they have experienced before.

“The Seek ads, none of that’s working. We’ve got to get out there and meet the people and

try to find them.

“We’re doing lots of things within our team, by giving them incentives to recommend people, partnering with as many institutes, schools and universities as we can to try and get people who are interested but it’s really hard.”

Kate said the good thing about the hospitality industry is that it can be learnt on the job and has so many opportunities to move up the ranks, a sentiment that was reflected by Oakridge Wines general manager Ben Day. “Anything’s possible. You can start off as a casual bar tender or restaurant manager but if you give a long term commitment, if you’ve got the right attitude, if you’ve got great application, anything’s possible and you can work your way up in the industry,” he said.

While Kate said it is great if young people can have some basic skills to jump straight into a job, it’s not necessary but courses like this just give students the confidence to handle anything.

Both Erin and Tiarey said one of the things they found most interesting to learn was the placement of cutlery when setting a table.

“We plated a table which had a lot more to it than I thought. You have to measure everything to a certain angle, which is actually really cool because you don’t think about that when you go to dining places,” Erin said.

“I never realised how symmetrical everything had to be and now seeing people in restaurants and going to a restaurant I think I’ll notice that much more,” Tiarey said.

Lilydale Community House finally opens its doors

By Mikayla van Loon It has been a long time coming but this week the Lilydale Community House finally opened its doors to the public.

Since August, house coordinator Suyin Chan has been running online sessions but she said it was lovely to be able to invite people to the in person programs at last.

Holding the first morning tea on Monday 22 November, Ms Chan said nine people turned up to say hello and three stayed to do some of their own craft afterwards.

Although at the moment there are just a few programs set up, including the beginners hip hop class on Fridays, Ms Chan said she is building up connections with organisations and is getting a sense of what people would like to take part in.

“There was a real need to have a community house so I’m hoping that we can make it work for everybody and get everyone excited and want to be involved in something.

“So I’m trying to spread a broad variety of activities that caters for a whole bunch of different cohorts.”

So far Ms Chan has just finalised setting up a weekly mens exercise session in partnership with the RSL. “That’ll be a free session every week for men to come and be a bit more active and be out in the world and actually have to walk or do the exercise and talk to other men,” she said.

A two week school holiday program for next year is also on the cards, which will allow children to explore their feelings in a fun and creative way.

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Lilydale Community House coordinator Suyin Chan is preparing a schedule of programs and workshops to be held over coming months.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON Ms Chan said language and craft classes have been a popular request from the community but she is open to ideas and is interested to hear from people whether they want to facilitate a program or want to be involved in something in particular.

“Drop in, come and say hello and find out what we’ve got on or even tell us what you want to see, that’s important to know. What is it that’s missing that you can’t find anywhere else? What would you like us to try and organise?”

Ms Chan’s vision for the community house is to be as affordable and accessible as possible and a safe place for all ages, demographics and cultures.

“I just really want to get the message out that we’re welcoming of everybody and we want everyone to feel like they can turn up and come to whatever it is, or even if it’s not for that but they just want to come in for a cuppa and a chat, we’re here for them.”

Part of the plan is to reach out to cultur-

ally diverse groups to see if they want to use the space or run a program, as well as a LGBTQIA+ carers group.

The community house will also have escape bags for anyone leaving a violent household who might be in need of some essential items.

By January Ms Chan hopes to have a weekly program put together but for now she is still meeting with locals and other organisations to see how everyone can work together to achieve an excellent outcome for the community.

“I’m really excited that we’ve got somewhere to start and I’m just making connections with the businesses and with the local community groups and just trying to establish a few relationships,” she said.

“There’s all these other groups using the building, so we have to work in between them. So we’ve spoken to the Bowls Club next door, ‘can we borrow your meeting room’ and they said ‘yes, sure’.

“The RSL, they’d love us to come and run stuff there. So I’m just making all these partnerships so that we’re all in it together.”

To book into an upcoming class or workshop go to www.lilydalech.org.au, call 0493 150 176 or email lilydalecommunityhouse@ chaosnetwork.org.au.

The community house is also on the lookout for some volunteers to help facilitate the programs.

The Lilydale Community House is located inside the Lilydale Senior Citizens Hall at 7 Hardy Street. It is open on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 9am to 4pm and from 9am until 12pm on Fridays. mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Cleaning up Brushy Creek

By Mikayla van Loon

Picture: JESSE GRAHAM

Tony Smith steps down

By Parker McKenzie Tony Smith has stepped down as Speaker of the House of Representatives in federal parliament.

The Liberal Member for Casey was elected to the position unopposed three times and is highly respected by both Coalition and Labor politicians.

Mr Smith gave his final speech in Parliament as Speaker on Monday 22 November.

“Just over six years and three months ago I had the honour of being elected the 30th Speaker of this house of representatives,” Mr Smith said.

“As you know from my announcement last time we sat, today will be my last day in the chair before I rejoin you on the floor as the government member for Casey.”

He thanked several politicians in parliament including the treasurer Josh Frydenberg, Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese and Leader of the House Peter Dutton.

“Can I say to all to you that being a friend with someone who has different political views to you doesn’t mean you dilute your political values.” Mr Smith said.

Mr Smith will sit on the backbench before

retiring as Member of Casey at the next federal election.

“Of course today is my last sitting day, tomorrow morning I will visit the governor general to tender my resignation first thing in the morning,” he said.

“Thank you, I’ll see you on the floor tomorrow.”

The division of Casey covers the outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne and parts of the Yarra Ranges.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Smith was “the finest speaker this house has had.”

“Mr Speaker you have demonstrated that any member in this place can make a difference,” Mr Morrison said.

“You have sought through your carriage of that important chair everything you’ve been able to do to facilitate members to make that contribution.”

Mr Smith was elected to the House of Representatives in 2001. The Liberal Party has selected Melbourne businessman and former political staffer Aaron Violi to replace him as the party’s candidate for the seat of Casey.

The federal government will put forward Andrew Wallace to replace Smith and become the 31st Speaker of the House on Tuesday 23 November.

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“Depending on everyone’s preference and ability they will either stay on the flat ground near the paths or will move a bit further down the banks accessing anything that can be safely reached,” Ms Donlan said.

“Some people go solo and others buddy up with a new friend. Most rubbish is just plastic packets and cans and similar but the odd shopping trolley or microwave will also be pulled up.”

Whether it is a lack of education around littering or the lack of access to bins that is causing the issue, Ms Donlan said there is a simple solution - to volunteer and join the group in the clean up.

And while Ms Donlan would love to just say to people ‘don’t litter’ she realises that blame or judgement is not going to fix the problem. Rather, her advice is a lot more wholesome than that.

“I’d say the best message I have is to encourage people to spend time enjoying the natural environment, building a sense of wonder and awe. You won’t damage something if you believe it’s beautiful.”

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Brushy Creek is sprawled with litter and plastic, something one group of people is trying to fix.

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Liberal Casey MP Tony Smith. 155999

Noticing the rubbish accumulation that kept happening along the Brushy Creek in Mooroolbark, a group of volunteers decided to do something about it.

In what will be their third clean up day on Saturday 4 December, organiser Victoria Donlan said it’s important to keep this waterway clear of litter.

“I think that given the concerns we all share about the environment and the future, it’s a really good thing to get involved and get up close to nature,” she said.

“By climbing down the banks and looking closely you feel more connected and you feel a greater sense of responsibility.

It’s so empowering to do even a small thing than to keep walking past it feeling bad for doing nothing.”

Ms Donlan said it isn’t entirely up to the work of volunteers, that Melbourne Water does maintain the litter and weeds but there is always more to do, particularly after rain and storms.

“I’m no expert on water systems but I believe it’s simply a case of all the litter dropped or spilled on the streets and surrounding area being swept up in storm water.

“When it rains, the water in the creek rises significantly so anything on the banks gets swept in and then it gets snagged in the trees and vegetation on the banks. The litter is certainly more noticeable after a downpour.”

The last two times the group has met, around 20 people showed up to help clean up the creek, something Ms Donlan said is so lovely to be able to share with people who have similar interests.

Meeting on Diane Crescent, the group collect bags and tongs before dividing and conquering.

www.lilydalemitsubishi.com.au Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

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MAIL 7

NEWS

Elder’s memoir shared

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Family and connection lay at the heart of Aunty Pat Ockwell’s life story.

And so it was at the official launch of her richly told biography ‘Aunty Pat Ockwell Tells Her Story’ in front of admiring family, friends and mayors at Abbotsford Convent on 21 November.

The 84-year-old Wurundjeri elder – described as “our eldest elder” – has traced her vast life, deep kinship and shared the lessons for the younger generations.

It’s the product of two-and-a-half years of lockdown-interrupted toil between Aunty Pat and collaborator Pauline Mackinnon.

At the launch, Aunty Pat – flanked by siblings Alice, Patrick and Martha - revealed the emotional ride in compiling the book with her “old mate”.

“I used to cry sometimes, I used to have a go at her and she’d have a cry.

“I’d say what are we howling for? We shouldn’t be doing this.

“We sat down with a coffee. We roughed it for a while – but we got there, Pauline.”

Ms Mackinnon said Aunty Pat’s persistence on the project was driven by a “love and fire” for her elders and the young.

“It was no ego thing,” she said.

“It was something she knew she had to do for everyone’s benefit – for all her family and the community.

“And to cover all that love and courage of her elders.”

Ms Mackinnon said it was an honour to “walk with” Aunty Pat through the project.

“It’s a beautiful, personal and warm record of a critical time for Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people.

“What it takes to survive and to safeguard what’s important so the next generation can do the same.

Aunty Pat Ockwell with her siblings Alice, Patrick and Martha. 258932 “What I love about Aunt is not only the love and fire that burns in her belly for her elders. It’s the love and fire that burns for the young ones.

“She sees the connection of that so well.”

The story starts with Aunty Pat’s mum Martha Terrick and dad Patrick Nicholson, who served with the Royal Australian Air Force.

Then the childhood memories growing up in Healesville, as one of 16 siblings. Her family travelled the countryside by caravan for seasonal farm and orchard work.

The memoir tells of her raising her family with husband and Woori Yallock farmer Ted Ockwell. And inspired by elders before her, how she devoted herself to trying to help her people.

Her Aunty Winnie – a very important Wurundjeri leader – said that when she was gone,

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School students across Victoria made their return to school following summer holidays, while 2021’s preps got their first taste of primary school life. Wurundjeri Elder Aunty Joy Murphy conducted a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony for Badger Creek Primary School students and staff.

See page 7 for more back to school excitment.

Back to school!

School students across Victoria made their return to school following summer holidays, while 2021’s preps got their first taste of primary school life. Wurundjeri Elder Aunty Joy Murphy

By Jed Lanyon

Centre in the lead up to Christmas. Many locals far and wide were able to keep up their Christmas tradition in getting a family photo with ‘The Real Santa’ who they had grown to love.

The unlikely tandem tallied upwards of $30,000 from their family Christmas photos and then selected four charities to each receive

$8400 to help make the lives of children better.

The four recipients of the funds included: Backpacks 4 Vic Kids, A Better Life For Foster Kids, HeartKids and Chum Creek’s Good Life Farm. The organisations shared how the funds had already been put to good use.

Backpacks 4 Vic Kids CEO and founder Sally Beard told Star Mail the donation came as a “delightful surprise”.

“We’re very, very grateful on behalf of the children, whose lives that it will impact,” she said. “We have absolutely put that money to good use.”

Ms Beard shared that the $8400 donation from Branded is aiding 112 children in need with care packs filled with toiletries, spare changes of clothes, a toy and more.

Continued page 2 12477022-SN06-21

It’s February, but Santa Claus’ gifts keep on coming for several charity organisations who benefited from a partnership between Saint Nick and Seville’s Branded Burger Bar. The burger bar came to the rescue when they partnered with Santa, who had seen his role replaced at Chirnside Park Shopping

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“You can see and recognise that personal touch.”

Recent City of Greater Dandenong mayor Angela Long – a friend of Aunty Pat for four decades – was among the attendees.

City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp also paid tribute in a pre-recorded message.

In her Welcome to Country, Aunty Di Kerr said she was glad that ‘Teenie’ told her life stories, like the ones she used to share in jewellery making.

“I hope you look at the book and appreciate what as a strong matriarch in the Aboriginal community she has shared with us,” she told the audience.

To her friend, she said: “I don’t know what our world would be like without you.”

By Renee Wood

FREE Sanders relives rally

Aunty Pat would have to “step up”.

And she did.

She’s served on the board of Dandenong and District Aborigines Co-operative, as well as the Wurundjeri Tribe Council, Aboriginal Community Elders Services and Aboriginal Housing Victoria.

She is renowned for getting young lives back on track and out of jail, such as by sitting on the Koori Court as an Elder for 14 years.

At the launch, Uncle Andrew Gardiner, of Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, said the book had many “snippets” that few had heard.

One passage brought him vivid recollections of his mother.

Aunty Pat Ockwell and Greater Dandenong mayor Angela Long at the book launch. 258932

Yarra Valley Singers back in action with pop ups

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Pictures: ROB CAREW

Yarra Valley Singers have enjoyed the first live performance together following months of zooming in for community choir rehearsals and meet ups during the lockdowns.

The group performed at the Montrose Market on Saturday 20 November and president Geoff Steventon said it followed two weeks of face to face rehearsals preparing for their return.

“By all accounts everybody received it well, so that was really good and we thoroughly enjoyed it,” Mr Steventon said.

The performance was part of a ‘flash mob’ pop up performance project the Yarra Valley Singers have organised to reconnect with the community and reactivate public spaces.

The group will also be performing at the Chirnside Twilight Market on the 3 December, Tudor Village 6 December, Chirnside Bunnings 9 December and in Millgrove 18 December.

The pop ups were supported by the Yarra Ranges Council community grants program, the group received $10,000 to invest in new equipment and to support their sound engineer.

“Battery operated speakers and the backing tracks we needed, but also the cost to pay one of our members to be an IT coordinator, because there’s a lot of skill needed to make everything work properly.”

Council grants also helped the group switch to online rehearsals using new equipment during the lockdown.

“Choirs changed significantly during the lockdown because we obviously had to cater for people not being able to sing together.

“With some help from Yarra Ranges Council, by way of grants, we’ve been able

Yarra Valley Singers performed for the first time in person together at the Montrose Market.

Picture: SUPPLIED to significantly improve the quality of what we offer for people that can or cannot rehearse face to face.”

The group formed in 1988 however, members numbers have declined due to the pandemic - in 2019 there was 100 members but that has now halved.

“We were at the stage where we couldn’t fit people into the evening session, because we couldn’t get any more people in the venue.”

Mr Steventon hopes now we are entering a new Covid normal, new members will join for either the day and night gatherings.

No singing skills are necessary, with some teachings to happen throughout the meetings and all song tastes are welcomed.

“We sing a whole range of music sort of from classical through to pop to mix it up because we realise, not everybody has the same taste in music, and we try to cater for as many as we can.

“Anybody can join, they don’t need to be necessarily a good singer. we are open to anybody at whatever level of ability they have.”

The group hosts two sessions, Tuesday mornings and Wednesday evenings. mailcommunity.com.au

EXPERIENCE AN EAGLES FLIGHT

The Arthurs Seat Eagle is a one of a kind experience right on Melbourne’s doorstep.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Reaching for the skies Catching a gondola in the middle of the Mornington Peninsula may seem like a difficult task but Arthurs Seat Eagle gives the experience a whole new meaning.

Rather than being on the water, the gondola chair lift is suspended high above the ocean, giving spectacular views out across the bay.

“The Arthurs Seat Eagle offers a one of a kind experience - soaring high above Arthurs Seat State Park in our state-of-the-art gondolas, 314 metres above sea level. The stunning views from the gondolas extend across Port Phillip Bay to Melbourne CBD and beyond,” Arthurs Seat Eagle CEO, Matt Mulkearns said.

Since 2016 the Eagle has been operating,

constantly changing things up to give customers a new experience each time they visit.

The team have introduced in-gondola dining and the cafe menu is seasonally updated but it is the newly renovated retail store that has been an integral part of The Base, to help display the wonderful local produce the peninsula has to offer.

“Our newly revamped retail store stocks products from the Mornington Peninsula - our emphasis has been on showcasing and supporting local producers, artisans, and businesses that give back to the community,” Mr Mulkearns said.

But it’s not just the things the eye can see

that makes this the one of a kind tourist destination that it is.

“We have a relentless drive to deliver safety excellence and use only state-of-the-art equipment and products - this has translated well in the era of Covid, as the implementation of an advanced TGA certified, instant contact surface disinfectant has given us a superior level of Covid protection and a leading technological edge in our industry.”

The fully inclusive and accessible gondolas, designed in Switzerland, cater for all ages and abilities, allowing everyone to witness the bluest of blue waters in Melbourne’s beach side suburbs.

With discounts now on offer, there’s no better time to book this premium Victorian tourism attraction, the only one like it in the state.

“We have just introduced a new Eagle Family Ticket to make the Eagle more affordable and cost efficient for families. An online ticket discount has also been introduced to provide better value and an incentive to those who book online.”

Open every day except Christmas Day from 10am to 5pm at 795 Arthurs Seat Road, Arthurs Seat. Visit www.aseagle.com.au to book tickets or contact the Arthurs Seat Eagle team at info@aseagle.com.au or on (03) 5987 0600.

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Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

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MAIL 9

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Christmas tree farmer Anthony Mazzella

What is something people don’t know about you?

I’ve never watched Game of thrones, Lord of the rings or Star Wars.

What was it like growing up on and around a Christmas tree farm?

It was really fun living on a farm, always felt like Christmas was an even bigger event because we sold Christmas trees.

What do you enjoy most about growing and selling Christmas trees each year?

I’ve always loved the farm life and through the year it’s great working in the outdoors. When we sell it’s always rewarding seeing the smiles on the kids faces when you’ve cut their Christmas tree.

What has been one of your most memorable moments working on a Christmas tree farm?

Most memorable moments is always watching people with the tiniest cars try to fit the biggest trees!

What is something people might not know about Christmas trees?

How long they take to grow! A lot of people assume that they only take one year to get to a saleable height when in fact they take around three to five years.

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

Kobe Bryant’s last NBA game Which four guests, dead or alive, would you invite to a dinner party?

Kevin hart, Dwayne Johnson, Jennifer Anniston, Kobe Bryant Who do you admire the most?

My dad, he has always been one of the hardest workers I know.

Anthony Mazzella has learnt the family business of growing and selling Christmas trees at the Montrose Christmas Tree Farm.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON What are some of your hobbies?

Always love to go fishing when I can, as well as playing poker and spending time with family.

THREE … facts about Christmas

1

Christmas tree decorations The use of modern Christmas trees started in Germany in the 16th century and they were decorated with fruits and nuts. Some families also built Christmas pyramids of wood and decorated them with evergreens.

2

The mistletoe is the symbol of love and laughter!

The Mistletoe tradition to kiss underneath it comes from a way of asking for the blessings of the spirits of Christmas through the mistletoe.

3

Who is Santa Claus?

Santa Claus is based on St. Nicholas. who was a Christian bishop who provided for poor families, he also enjoyed giving gifts to children. As his story spread, he was called Sinterklaas in Dutch, which later became Santa Claus.

What is your favourite book and/or film?

Favourite film would have to be Law Abiding Citizen.

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OPINION

Emergency toolbox for difficult times In my last article I wrote of the fear many have had coming out of the (lockdown) cocoon, only to be in another one of a different kind maybe a new cocoon but with a different set of rules and restrictions.

Some walked out through the exit door of the sixth lockdown slap bang into a door that said, ‘Unvaxed-Unwanted’. However over 90 per cent can now go through that door yet there are varied reasons why the remaining 10 per cent can’t or won’t comply. I don’t want to get into the whys and wherefores, except to say that it is an extremely difficult time for all.

However before we might tend to lay it all at the feet of the Victorian Government, we may note that big private enterprise kicked off the ‘no vax no entry’rule: QANTAS, AFL, MCC re cricket over summer, the Grand Prix Corporation, to mention a few.

Whatever group you are in, we have all been through torrid times. With those times causing us to battle with comfort eating, excessive alcohol use and struggling with relationships.

When we got a grip on Covid-19, and the Delta variant, I warned about the tsunami wave on the horizon – (the psychological one).

Well it has hit and as for oceans, lesser rogue waves are still coming in behind it and breaking on our personal and community shores.

Focal Point

Graeme Dawson

In this article I just want to concentrate on relationship breakdowns. There has been an enormous rise in separations and there have been over 50000 applications for a divorce placed before the courts this year alone. Statistics say that these days, relationships only last 14 years on average.

Being a former relationship counsellor, I would want to be exploring why this is so.

Sometimes there is poor development as to what a ‘real’ understanding of expectations in a marriage or de-facto partnership is like, and virtually no tools in the relationship tool box to handle difficult times which will always come.

Just think for a moment that most are forming new relationship with someone coming out of another failed relationship.

If the ‘merry go round worked’ – great, but we have become blinded by what we call love, and especially by what we mean by the term,

‘falling in love’. Relationship love is not to be compared to, ‘I love the movies – I love ice cream – I love my car etc.

Last year in one of my articles I quoted the writer to an early Ephesian church as he was teaching about what love really was. I will quote his definition.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not readily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres”.

Imagine a love like that – but if two work at it, it is possible.

When counselling toward marriage I always insisted on six weeks of sessions before I held the ceremony. Dealing with questions like: Why marriage If you’ve lived together for 16 years? What do you think getting married will do for you now? Will you have a better relationship? What plans do you have for regulate checkups? Do you plan to have a mentor couple, and other questions to tease out a plan – to build a tool box for dealing with brokenness?

(Feedback and need for help can be fielded to my email - csrsmokey@gmail.com) Graeme Dawson Chaplain to Community

Shows ahead Kemp’s curtain call Centrestage Youth Theatre The Bakery @ 1812 Presents Frankenstein: Haunted by the consequences of his greatest and most terrible achievement, Victor Frankenstein – a brilliant young scientist – returns to his Swiss chateau to live a private life of seclusion.

Distraught by the death of his younger brother, Frankenstein has no idea the extent to which he will be made to suffer.

On the night of his wedding, he confesses his dark secret to his newlywed wife and delays the sequence of events that lead to the night that is certain to be his last.

Season: 30 November – 10 December Ark Theatre Presents Ark Short Play Festival Season: 28 March 2022 Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Presents A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder Season: 14 February – 5 March 2022

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· · · · ·

The Nowhere Child: a superb tale about big secrets With Melbourne-based author Christian White’s third book recently released, now is a good time to review his debut novel The Nowhere Child (2019), which won the 2017 Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for an Unpublished Manuscript.

The novel’s protagonist, Kim, is approached by a stranger who is investigating the disappearance of a two-year-old girl named Sammy from her home in Kentucky some 28 years earlier. He believes Kim is that girl.

When Kim starts doubting her own identity, she realises some questions within her family have never been answered. To find out the truth, we travel with her from Melbourne to Manson, a small, strange town in Kentucky where a cult called the Church of the Light Within is based.

As the mystery of Sammy’s disappearance unravels, we delve into the dark secrets that each of her family members holds. White as the storyteller skilfully switches from one perspective to the next, exploring and exposing the treacherous past of Sammy’s parents,

CARTOON

PASSION FOR PROSE Book reviewer Christine Yunn-Yu Sun.

WITH CHRISTINE SUN sister and brother.

Even the “minor” characters have stories to tell, including the town sheriff, the neighbouring Eckles family, and the leaders of the socalled Light Withiners. Each piece of the puzzle leads to the next, until our grasp of the whole picture of a tragedy becomes crystal clear.

Meanwhile, in the process of reconciling the facts about her Australian mum and American mom, Kim realises she can lose her life – not just the life that she knows and owns as a

beloved daughter and sister, but she can die, with her corpse never to be found.

The Nowhere Child is an example of wellconstructed suspense that all readers would find enjoyable, including and especially those who enjoy Stephen King’s books. Indeed, White describes himself as being passionate for true crime podcasts, King and “anything to do with Bigfoot”. In a recent interview, White explained that the writing of the novel was also influenced by Gillian Flynn, who became a household name after the film adaption of her 2012 book Gone Girl was released and won multiple

awards in 2014.

While some writing techniques could be learned and developed, White’s debut novel demonstrates his talented skills in handling a wide range of characters with balance and tactfulness while steadily and gracefully building up a story to its climax. Such a task is difficult but not impossible, and very few debut authors could put it through.

Another challenge is to introduce and successfully integrate at least one new character midway through a story. It is an unusual decision that any author would take caution to make, because every word in every page of a book should count and be accounted for.

But White did it in The Nowhere Child, relatively seamlessly. More importantly, although the novel’s “crunch” is slightly predictable, the delivery of all necessary clues to the final puzzle is still beautifully done.

This reviewer would happily look forward to reviewing White’s second novel The Wife and the Widow (2020) and the most recent one, The Wild Place (2021).

Damning with fine praise Venom: Let There Be Carnage Starring Tom Hardy, Woody Harrelson and Naomie Harris Rated M Venom: Let There Be Carnage is another fun but sloppy action-comedy about living with an alien.

Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy), who is the host for a symbiotic alien named Venom, gets tangled up with serial killer Cletus Kasady (Woody Harrelson).

As with the 2018 first film, Eddie and Venom’s odd-couple relationship forms the film’s entertaining core. Eddie wants to rebuild his life, while Venom wants more independence and to eat bad guys, and it’s amusing and even endearing to watch them clash, confront their differences and admit that they care for each other. Venom’s arc even has a hilarious scene of pride and unlikely acceptance in a nightclub.

While strangely bloodless for a main character who bites people’s heads off, the action sequences are well-composed and make good use of geography (as opposed to the incomprehensible final fight in the first film) and convey a clear sense of struggle, which you

mailcommunity.com.au

know I consider essential in good action.

Let There Be Carnage is more cohesive than the first film, but it’s far from streamlined.

Kasady’s connection with Eddie is waferthin, and his characterisation is a mess, awkwardly combining unrepentant sociopath and abused victim tropes. Classy, folksy serial killers are a tired cliche, and Kasady and his underdeveloped love interest Barrison (Naomie Harris) lack the depth to elevate this cliche (and share some very contrived dialogue).

Venom: Let There Be Carnage is undeniably fun and better than the first film, but the main characters are better than the messy whole.

- Seth Lukas Hynes Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

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MAIL 11

OPINION

By Matthew Guy In exactly a year, Victorians will be at the polling booths, casting their votes on who they want to govern the state for the next four years.

Crucially, it’ll be the chance to have your say on the consequences of Labor’s world-record setting 263-day lockdown.

This has affected regional Victoria in ways we once couldn’t have imagined.

Entire communities have been locked down on a whim, without ever recording a single case of coronavirus.

From Wodonga to Mildura, border communities were left in the dark as confusion became the new normality. Daily errands such as crossing the Murray River to get groceries or see the physio were put on hold, often waiting days to get clarity from the government.

The waitlist for elective surgery was already at record levels prior to the pandemic and has now swelled to more than 67,000.

Business owners were forced to shut their doors and locals were denied yet another service. The toll on our mental health is unlike anything we’ve ever seen.

And some communities know the chaos of when the virus spread to the regions all too well.

The Yarra Valley has not been immune to this.

Locals were frustrated when subjected to the same restrictions as Melbourne, despite being an hour from the CBD. But, in trying times the community banded together and turned out in droves to get tested and vaccinated.

Today, much of the area has surpassed 90

By Giselle Leonard Pre covid days.

“Bye Pippi” Covid Kid calls to me as she swishes out the door. I watch as she peddles away and silently mark her off my list.

Her brother left a little while ago, Mum following suit not long after, leaving me with only ‘Dad’.

I hope that today maybe the one they call Dad will stay at home all day, but they gave me that bone this morning, like they every Monday.

So I deduce that Dad will be leaving

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Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

soon... And alas, I am right.

The door swings shut and I am alone to contemplate what I am going to do today.

Maybe cause some mischief...

During Covid days.

All the day long they don’t leave me.

All day I have friends. Albeit sometimes stressed friends, maybe something to do with that Covid person... but never mind.

Who cares?

I have friends and family around me all day! Ready to play tug-on-a-sock or do stomach scratchies all day long! At that moment I think my life is perfect! Woof!

COMMUNITY DIARY Montrose fire safety night CFA members from District 13 will be hosting a bushfire safety session in Montrose on Tuesday 30 November from 7pm to 8pm at Richards Reserve.

The CFA will provide an update on the upcoming season and what actions should be taken to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones.

To register for the event, send an email to d13commed@cfa.vic.gov.au, with your first and last name, the session number (MTRSE1121) and a phone number.

Pathways for Carers Meet at the Mount Evelyn Community House on Thursday 2 December and join fellow carers of people with a disability or mental illness and share in the opportunity to walk together.

Starting at 9.45am, walk with carers and representatives from local organisations, before having free coffee and cake.

For more information, call Nicky at Mount Evelyn Community House or Amanda May at Yarra Ranges Council 1300 368 333.

The Mount Evelyn Community House can be found at 50 Wray Cres, Mt Evelyn.

Festive fun at Lilydale 12 MAIL

per cent fully vaccinated. That number will only increase.

But the aftermath is and will remain very real. Hundreds of family businesses will not reopen. Confidence is fractured. Residents are fatigued.

In a further blow, as normality drew closer, the Andrews Labor Government attempted to bulldoze through the Parliament the most dangerous and controlling laws our state has ever seen.

These extreme laws will allow the Premier of the day to declare a pandemic even if there is no pandemic in our state, or country.

It’s not surprising this was opposed by 60 QCs, the Victorian Bar, the Law Institute, Liberty Victoria, the Chamber of Commerce, the Human Rights Commissioner, the Human Rights Law Centre, and the Ombudsman.

And that’s why we’ve committed that if elected, we will tear up this bad Bill.

It’s time for regional Victoria to recover and rebuild. Before we know it, November will roll around and Victorians will be faced with a choice. A choice to get Labor’s city-focused infrastructure blowouts, which shred vital funds from the regions, under control.

A choice to create more jobs by backing small business revival and to catch up on lost learning in the classroom. A choice to end the mental health crisis and reduce hospital waiting lists. The Liberal Nationals are optimistic about Victoria’s future. All of Victoria.

365 days to go.

On a brighter note

12516657-SG42-21

CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar 3 Meadowgate Drive CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar 158 Nangathan Way CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar 11 The Mall KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Churinga SC, Russo Place KILSYTH Coles Supermarket 520-526 Mt Dandenong Road KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette87 Colchester Road KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Canterbury Road Kilsyth KILSYTH TSG Tobacco Churinga Shopping Centre Mt Dandenong Road LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC 33-45 Hutchinson Street LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC 51-59 Anderson Street LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale Village Castella Street & Maroondah Highway LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre 7 Hardy Street LILYDALE Eastern Laundries. 2/4 Williams Street East LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre 1 Jarlo Drive LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station 473 Maroondah Highway LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale 346 Main Street LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths 31 Hutchinson Street LILYDALE BP Service Station 87 Warburton Highway LILYDALE Shell Service Station 469 Maroondah Highway LILYDALE 7 - Eleven Lilydale Cnr Maroondah Highway & Cave Hill Road LILYDALE Coles Express 469 Maroondah Highway LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe 251 Main Street LILYDALE Round Bird Can’t Fly 170 Main Street LILYDALE The Lilydale General 110 Beresford Road LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery 96 Main Street LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe 178 Main Street LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe 222 Main Street LILYDALE Gracious Grace Castella Street LILYDALE Melba Coffee House 33-45 Hutchinson Street LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies 7/75 Cave Hill Road LILYDALE The Mustard Tree Cafe 3/28 John Street LILYDALE Freda’s Cafe 2 Clarke Street LILYDALE Barry Plant Real Estate 88 Main Street LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate 164 Main Street LILYDALE Stockdale & Leggo Real Estate 281 Main Street LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate 111-113 Main Street LILYDALE Grubs Up 1 Industrial Park Drive LILYDALE Olinda Creek Hotel Maroondah Hwy LILYDALE Crown Hotel Maroondah Hwy LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road MONTROSE IGA Supermarket 916 Mt Dandenong Road MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent MOUNT EVELYN Red Robin Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale 138 York Road MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket 15 Brice Avenue MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar 38 Bellara Dive MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart 108 Hayrick Lane MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark 103 Cardigan Road MOOROOLBARK Coles Express 2 Cambridge Road MOOROOLBARK Mooroolbark Coin Laundrette28 Manchester Road MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real Estate Brice Avenue MOOROOLBARK L J Hooker Brice Avenue MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road

Election: a year to go

COMMUNITY DIARY WHAT’S ON AROUND THE VALLEY

Community House Learn how to do some beaded decorations for your tree and some festive fun with beaded earrings at this LCH session.

This two hour workshop will teach you the basics of beading stars for your tree and earrings with a festive theme. Materials will be supplied to make both.

Thursday 9 December from 10am until noon. Cost is $15 for the session, and places are limited.

Book at: www.lilydalech.org.au to secure your spot. mailcommunity.com.au

BE KIND, BE SAFE

Council leads reopening Council’s Economic Development Team has been visiting townships across the region to support local businesses with reopening, and the move into a ‘vaccinated economy.’

Some of the services provided include updated health and safety collateral, printing and laminating services for COVIDSafe signage, distribution of ‘Buy Local’ bags, and collecting feedback, ideas and suggestions on outdoor activation plans.

Most importantly the team have been meeting business owners to gather feedback on the challenges they have faced during successive lockdowns, which will help shape Council’s advocacy and support initiatives in the coming year.

Newly elected Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Jim Child, and Deputy Mayor Johanna Skelton, recently visited some businesses in Olinda, and heard first-hand some of the difficulties faced by local traders.

“Our local businesses have undergone a lot of challenges over the last two years, with lockdowns as well as storms,” Cr Child said.

“It’s terrific to see doors open and visitors coming back to the region.

“It’s important for businesses to be wellprepared for an increase in visitors over the coming summer months, and Council is committed to supporting our businesses as much as we can to stay open and stay safe,” he said.

A key aspect of a COVIDSafe reopening is using outdoor spaces for trading and recreation. Council is waiving Footpath Trading Application & Renewal fees to support the safe reopening of local businesses in the Yarra Ranges.

“Council knows the difficulties faced by businesses during lockdown, and is happy to be able to waive footpath trading fees in recog-

Yarra Ranges Mayor Cr Jim Child and Helene Campbell of Tall Trees Studio, Olinda. nition of this” Cr Child said.

Outdoor activation plans are also underway with township tidy-ups to commence from now until Christmas, thanks to additional funding from the State Government. The Council Infrastructure team will be deep cleaning footpaths and Council infrastructure, weeding and mulching and getting our townships in top shape for the busy summer season.

As the State exceeds a 90 per cent double dose vaccination rate, we move into the next step of the re-opening plan, and a change in requirements for our business community.

In particular, non-essential retail settings have joined the vaccinated economy. These businesses can only open with workers and patrons who are fully vaccinated or have a valid medical exemption. Children aged un-

der 12 years and two months do not need to be vaccinated. Face masks are still required for indoor retail workers and customers unless a valid exemption applies.

Our businesses are only able to open their doors under these State Government mandates. Please remember to be patient, be kind and work together to keep our community safe and open.

STAY SAFE Doors are open and visitors are returning along with the busy summer period. Our local businesses are working hard to navigate on-going restrictions and requirements. Please be patient, be kind and let’s work together to keep businesses open and our communities safe.

1300 368 333 12522581-DL49-21

mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

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MAIL 13

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 057

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.

6

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

1

4 3 4

3 4 5 6

ACROSS

easy

4

QUICK CROSSWORD Resource (5) Social exclusion (9) Arab State (5) Fine ceramic material (9) Put a file online (6) Italian church (8) Candle holders (10) Set (3) Tree (3) Repetition (10) Large marsupial (8) Gardening implement (6) Destroy (9) Chickens, pigeons etc. (5) Brazen (9) Now (5)

1 4 9 10 11 12 14 15 17 19 23 24 26 27 28 29

7 8 13 16 18 19 20 21 22 25

No. 057

Drinking vessel (7) ‘My bad!’ (4) Well-worn (10) Common name for the US (7) Medical technique (7) By hand (8) Voters (10) Submissiveness (8) US state (7) Accomplish (7) Show (7) Camouflaged (7) Meaty (6) Tidings (4)

DOWN Sanctuary (6) Country in Horn of Africa (7)

1 2

DECODER

No. 057

9 6 1 7 2

2 9 6

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2

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2 3

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9-LETTER WORD 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”.

D

X

Today’s Aim: 7 words: Good 11 words: Very good

O

N

A

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3 6 5 2 8 1 4 7 9

1 6 7 9 2 8 5 4 3

5 2 4 6 3 1 9 7 8

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4 LETTERS BARD GOAT ICES LOGO ONTO PIPE PULP ROBE SEEM SEES SHAM TERM TOGA TWIG 5 LETTERS ABODE

ACUTE AFTIE AGREE ALERT ALGAE ASKEW BLURB CAUSE CHASE CREPT DRESS DUSTY EASES EERIE ERROR GROUP HALES HAVOC INERT IOTAS

No. 057

ISLES LARGE LOINS LOSES MESSY MUSIC OTTER OUTDO PANDA PEACE PETAL PRESS RUINS SCORN SHIRE SKILL SLAVE SPOUT SPRIG TALES

TRILL TRUCE TSARS TWIRL UNTIE 6 LETTERS EASTER MEAGRE PELLET PRIEST 7 LETTERS ADOPTED APPLAUD

AVOCADO BURGLAR DOUBLES OUTGROW 8 LETTERS HABITATS PATIENTS RATTLERS REDIRECT 11 LETTERS CHARISMATIC SWEETHEARTS

adit, anti, dint, doit, idiot, into, iota, nota, onto, oxidant, OXIDATION, taxi, toad, tondo, toxin

9 3 8 4 7 5 6 2 1

4 1 2 3 6 7 8 5 9

3 8 9 1 5 2 7 6 4

6 7 5 8 9 4 3 1 2

8 4 3 7 1 6 2 9 5

2 9 6 5 4 3 1 8 7

7 5 1 2 8 9 4 3 6

4 1 8 7 9 6 3 2 5

7 2 9 5 4 3 6 8 1

8 4 1 9 6 7 2 5 3

2 7 6 8 3 5 1 9 4

9 5 3 4 1 2 8 6 7

6 9 7 1 2 4 5 3 8

5 3 4 6 7 8 9 1 2

1 8 2 3 5 9 7 4 6

1 3 7 5 4 8 2 9 6

6 8 2 9 1 3 7 4 5

9 5 4 7 6 2 1 3 8

5 4 8 3 7 6 9 2 1

2 7 6 1 9 4 8 5 3

3 1 9 2 8 5 4 6 7

8 9 5 4 3 1 6 7 2

4 2 1 6 5 7 3 8 9

7 6 3 8 2 9 5 1 4

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

10 11 12 13

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

15 words: Excellent

hard

6

16

medium

2

15

easy

1

J P V I E N Y F Z L X R U

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

3 LETTERS ALE APT ARC ASH CAP EVE FLU FOR FUR IDS LIE LOP MAT NOR NOW PIS PRO RAG ROD SAG SEA TOT UPS USE

14

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WORDFIT

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MAIL 15

networkclassifieds.com.au General Notices

www.networkclassifieds.com.au

Place your ad in print and online

V Public Notices and Event

V Public Notices and Event

SPECIAL CHARGE SCHEMES

2021-2022 COUNCIL MEETING DATES & ANNUAL REPORT

MARNA STREET – MILLER & MONTPELLIER STREETS GRANDVIEW CRESCENT & LAWRENCE COURT, HEALESVILLE

ANNUAL REPORT Notice is hereby given that Council will consider the Annual Report for 2020-21 at its meeting to be held online on 7 December, 2021, commencing at 7pm.

ROAD IMPROVEMENT WORKS In accordance with Section 163 of the Local Government Act 1989, notice is hereby given that the Yarra Ranges Shire Council at its meeting of 23 November 2021 has resolved of its intention to declare a special charge for the Marna Street, Healesville- Miller & Montpellier Streets, Healesville and Grandview & Lawrence Court, Healesville - road improvement works, for the purpose of defraying the expenses incurred in the provision by Council of road improvements carried out under Sections 8 and 10 of the Local Government Act 2020.

The special charge is intended to be declared in respect of those properties shown within the designated areas for the special charge schemes as outlined by heavy lines on the plans below, being properties that have abuttal to or gain primary access via the subject roads.

Copies of the Annual Report can be obtained from any of the Council’s Community Links or on Council’s website at yarraranges.vic.gov.au.

Council has also received a copy of the report of the Auditor under Section 9 of the Audit Act 1994, which is included in the Annual Report and can also be inspected at the Council’s Community Links.

A copy of the proposal to levy is available for inspection at the Yarra Ranges Council Community Links, 61-65 Anderson Street, Lilydale (enter via Coles carpark) and 110 River Street, Healesville during office hours until 29 December 2021.

2021-2022 COUNCIL MEETING DATES Notice is hereby given that meetings of Yarra Ranges Council for the remainder of 2021 and for the duration of 2022 will be held as set out below:

In accordance with Section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989, any person wishing to make a submission on the proposal must do so in writing to the undersigned by 29 December 2021. Submissions should be addressed to:

2021

Public Submission The Chief Executive Officer, Yarra Ranges Shire Council and can either be hand delivered to the mailbox outside 61-65 Anderson Street, Lilydale (entrance via the Coles carpark), emailed to mail@yarraranges.vic.gov.au or posted to PO Box 105, Lilydale, Vic. 3140.

7 December 2021 (to be held by video conference) 14 December 2021 (to be held by video conference) 2022 25 January

Any person making a submission is entitled to request in the submission that the person wishes to appear in person, or to be represented by a person specified in the submission, at a meeting to be heard in support of that submission.

Any person requesting to appear in person or to be represented by a person specified in his or her submission will be notified of the day, time and place of the meeting of the Council or of a committee determined by the Council to hear submissions.

All submissions will be considered in accordance with Section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989.

Copies of submissions (excluding submitter’s names and addresses) will be made available at the Council meeting when submissions are considered.

It is proposed to declare this special charge at the Council meeting to be held on 8 February 2022, or should this meeting not proceed then the next available meeting, after the consideration of the submissions received.

12 July

8 February

26 July

22 February

9 August

8 March

23 August

22 March

13 September

12 April

27 September

26 April

11 October

10 May

25 October

24 May

8 November (Mayoral Election)

14 June

22 November

28 June

13 December

All meetings will commence at 7pm, unless otherwise advertised, and will be broadcast live on Council’s website.

Further information about how Council meetings operate and how members of the community can participate is available on our website at https://www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Council/Council-meetings Tammi Rose Chief Executive Officer

12525753-BL49-21

Subject to the redevelopment of the Civic Centre (and any public health directions), Meetings will either be held virtually or at the Civic Centre, 15 Anderson St, Lilydale.

www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au

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General Notices

Tammi Rose Chief Executive Officer

www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au

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Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

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General Notices

Trades & Services V Deadline

V Public Notices and Event

Placing your classified advert is so easy...

EES now on exhibition.

Phone: 1300 666 808 Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au (include your name, address and phone number)

Warburton Mountain Bike Destination Project

We accept payment by: VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS/BANK TRANSFER (1.5% credit card processing fee applies.)

Project Description The Project is a proposed world-class mountain biking destination centred around Warburton, approximately 70 kilometres east of Melbourne. A significant informal network of mountain bike trails currently exists within the region and there is evidence of increasing use of these trails by local and visiting riders. Mountain biking in this locality started around 15 years ago and was concentrated in the Yarra State Forest in the vicinity of Mount Tugwell.

Yarra Ranges Council has identified mountain biking as an opportunity for tourism growth within the region which would support the region through stimulating the visitor economy and improving the health and wellbeing of its residents. The project would create iconic trails eligible for International Mountain Bike Association Gold Level Ride Centre status which would position Warburton as an internationally significant mountain biking destination.

After considering the Victorian Minister for Planning’s assessment under the EE Act, the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment will make a determination whether to approve the Controlled Action under the EPBC Act. Procedures for the EES were published and are available Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) website at: https://www.planning.vic.gov .au/environment-assessment/browse-projects/projects/ warburton-mountain-bike-destination You can also read more about the EES process for the project at the above link Any person may make a written submission on the EES and draft PSA during the exhibition process. All such submissions will be treated as submissions on the EES.

The project objectives are to: - Facilitate tourism growth and associated positive economic and jobs growth in the Yarra Valley region

- Enhance the health and wellbeing of the community - Maintain the significant biodiversity and heritage values within the project area and provide opportunities for the community to connect with and appreciate their importance The project consists of up to 177 kilometres of mountain bike trails providing a range of mountain bike experiences to suit all levels of riding. The project also includes a new Visitors Hub and main trailhead at the Warburton Golf Course and other trailheads at Mount Tugwell, Mount Donna Buang and Wesburn Park.

If the Project gains all required approvals, construction of Stage 1 is anticipated to begin (approximately 110km of trails and supporting infrastructure) in mid to late 2022.

EES process In May 2020, the Victorian Minister for Planning determined an EES would be required for the project under the Environment Effects Act (EE Act). In June 2020, the Commonwealth Government determined that approval would be required under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) and accredited the EES process for the related assessment.

In September 2020, DELWP issued draft Scoping Requirements for the project’s EES for public comment.

Following consideration of feedback, the final Scoping Requirements were issued, and identified the matters to be investigated and documented in the EES. The key approvals required under Victorian legislation are planning approval via a Planning Scheme Amendment under the Planning and Environment Act 1987; a works on waterways permit under the Water Act 1989; approvals under the National Parks Act 1975 and an approved Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006.

Additional approvals required include a ‘Permit to take protected flora from public land’ under the FFG Act and approval for amendment of the Yarra Ranges National Park Management Plan. Other approvals may be required and will be determined throughout the course of the EES.

Where a submitter is unable to lodge a submission online, they must contact Planning Panels Victoria (PPV) through the DELWP Customer Call Centre on 136 186 (select option 6) and request a hardcopy submission coversheet. Each hardcopy submission must be accompanied by a coversheet issued by PPV.

Deadline for all classifications is 4pm Friday.

V Air Conditioning

All submissions must state the name and address of the person making the submission. Petition and pro-forma responses will be treated as a single submission and only the first names from a petition or pro-forma submission will be registered and contacted.

Be cool this summer • Brivis Evaporative Cooling • Daikin & Rinnai Splits • Pensioner discounts • Evap & Split Service Specials

Submissions will be treated as public documents and will be published on the Engage Victoria website. Do not include personal information in the body of your submission (such as your email address or phone number) or photos of people, particularly children. Your submission and your name will be made public.

The submission process is independently managed by PPV and any enquiries regarding the management of submissions and the Inquiry and Hearing process should be directed to them.

REC 17042 PIC 38148 AU 06212

The Inquiry and Advisory Committee Process

- Create iconic mountain bike trails eligible for International Mountain Bike Association Gold Ride Centre status - Create spectacular riding experiences that have a competitive advantage over existing mountain bike destinations and leverage Warburton’s beautiful township, rural valley and surrounding forested slopes

Each submission is a public document and will be treated as a submission on the EES and the draft PSA. Only one submission is needed to address all of your views about the project, its effects and the relevant documents. Online submissions are preferred and can be lodged via the Victorian Government’s engagement website: https://engage.vic.gov.au/warburton-iac

The Minister for Planning will appoint a joint Inquiry and Advisory Committee (IAC) under the EE Act and the PE Act to hold an Inquiry into the project and its environmental effects. The IAC will review the public submissions, the EES and draft PSA and will consider the environmental effects of the project in accordance with terms of reference issued by the Minister for Planning.

How to access the EES and Exhibited Documents The EES and the draft PSA application are now available to read and download at www.rideyarraranges.com.au Should COVID-19 restrictions allow, hard copies of the EES and the draft PSA will be made available at the following locations during the exhibition period: Yarra Ranges Council Community Hub 2415 Warburton Hwy, Yarra Junction VIC 3797 Arts Centre Warburton 3409 Warburton Hwy, Warburton VIC 3799 Yarra Ranges Council Offices Chapel St, Lilydale VIC 3140 (Medicare Bldg) State Library of Victoria 328 Swanston St, Melbourne 3000

Information on the hearing process and timetable will be published as it becomes available at: https://engage.vic.gov.au/warburton-iac

For those who cannot access either the physical or electronic sites to view the EES and draft PSA, hard copies may be requested and purchased from The Proponent by emailing mail@yarraranges.vic.gov.au or call 1300 368 333.

Arts Centre Warburton 3409 Warburton Hwy, Warburton VIC 3799 Friday 3 December 2021 2pm to 6pm Tuesday 7 December 2021 12pm to 4pm Wednesday 15 December 2021 9am to 1pm Wednesday 12 January 2022 2pm to 6pm Face to Face Sessions Saturday 18 December 2021

10am to 1pm

Online Information Session Monday 20 December 2021

7pm to 8pm

Small Job Specialist ฀

฀ ฀฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀ ฀

฀ ฀ ฀

Call Steve 0417 192 009

Need cash?

Sell it local V Carpenters

Questions

Summary Brochure $10; Main Report $50; Technical Reports $60 each; Attachments $50 each; Map Book $30, Entire EES (Main Report, all Technical Reports, all Attachments, Map Book) $750.

Drop In Sessions Drop in sessions will be held by The Proponent at the following locations and times:

V Builders & Building Services

After the exhibition period, the IAC will hold a Directions Hearing on Friday 11 February 2022 where the necessary arrangements and timetable for the public hearing will be established. Further information about the Directions Hearing arrangements (including whether it will be held in person or conducted online by video conference) will be published on https://engage.vic.gov.au/warburton-iac when determined. The IAC will follow the health advice from the Victorian Government and the Chief Health Officer in making this decision.

Members of the public and any other parties seeking to be heard at the public hearing are required to submit a written submission and indicate on the online submission form or hardcopy submission coversheet that they would like to be heard at the hearing.

EES Information Pack You can request an EES information pack which contains: • USB loaded with the complete EES and draft PSA. • Printed Project Overview including a map.

Please note the EES is a long document (approx 3500 pages) and we encourage the use of electronic versions.

9870 7059 www.fairbairns.com.au

The public hearing process will commence in the week beginning Tuesday 15 March 2022 and will run for approximately three (3) to four (4) weeks as required.

Subject to COVID-19 restrictions on Community Facilities.

Please check the COVIDSafe Settings for metropolitan Melbourne for updates. www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covidsafe-settings

12493755-SN19-21

This EES has considered MNES for making a determination under the EPBC Act. You can make a submission on the matters assessed for the purposes of the relevant provisions under the EPBC Act, by making a submission on the EES.

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Submissions on the EES and the draft PSA must be made in writing and be received by 11:59pm on Tuesday 25 January 2022.

12522612-JW47-21

This notice is provided pursuant to the Environment Effects Act 1978 (Vic) (EE Act), the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) (EPBC Act) and Planning and Environment Act 1987 (PE Act).

Written submissions can be made between Friday 26 November 2021 and 11:59pm on Tuesday 25 January 2022.

The Victorian Minister for Planning will provide a final assessment of the effects of the project following public exhibition of the EES and a subsequent inquiry.

How to make a submission

12358958-PB30-17

The EES, together with the draft Planning Scheme Amendment (PSA)(C198yran), are now available for public comment for 40 business days.

The EES process is accredited to assess impacts on Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES) under the EPBC Act through the Bilateral Assessment Agreement between the Commonwealth and the State of Victoria. The Commonwealth Minister or delegate will decide whether the project is approved, approved with conditions or refused under the EPBC Act, after having considered the Minister for Planning’s assessment under the EE Act.

Carpenter

In relation to the Project or EES Documentation Yarra Ranges Shire Council P.O. Box 105, Anderson Street Lilydale, VIC 3140 1300 368 333 (03) 9735 4249 mail@yarraranges.vic.gov.au

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www.rideyarraranges.com.au

0408 538 121

In relation to making a submission or the Inquiry Process Planning Panels Victoria 136 186 (select option 6) planning.panels@delwp.vic.gov.au In relation to the EES Process Impact Assessment Unit, DELWP environment.assessment@delwp.vic.gov.au

Warburton Mountain Bike Destination

C1084033-JO31-13

Yarra Ranges Council (the proponent) has prepared an Environment Effects Statement (EES) for the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination project (the Project).

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12456635-CG32-20

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MAIL 17

Trades & Services

Employment

V Pest Control

V Trades Business Profile

V Positions Vacant PAKENHAM OFFICER

Mountain Views

Tuesday, 9 November, 2021

Mail

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au Frock and awe

Step into Paradise with Jenny Kee and Linda Jackson

MOVIE GUIDE INSIDE

Looking for love search for Brooke Blurton’s on love breaks boundaries Australia The Bachelorette

OR SOMEONE E ME AND SEE EE BROOKE ELORETTE

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Students helping out the homeless

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Healesville resident wins best history book award

SPOTLIGHT: Major music concert at Rochford

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Melbourne Cup winner souvenir poster INSIDE

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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.

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.

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These are fixed term full-time positions, within the program teams at our recreation camps. The roles are best suited to energetic applicants who love working with all ages and have a desire to work outdoors.

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Should you have any questions relating to these opportunities, please contact Greg Mason on 0409 337 091 or email greg.mason@ymca.org.au.

Applications Close Wednesday 8 December 2021.

Go online for the full Position Description and other careers at www.ymca.org.au/careers

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YMCA Camping are looking for their 2022 intake of Outdoor Recreation Trainees. We have positions available at all 6 of our Victorian campsites: Lake Dewar Lodge, Lady Northcote Recreation Camp, Mt Evelyn Recreation Camp, Camp Manyung, Anglesea Recreation Camp and Howmans Gap Alpine Centre.

How to Apply If this is you, please visit https://ymca.org.au/careers/ for further information.

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V Positions Vacant

An opportunity exists for two year one cadet journalists to join the team at Star News Group.

This position would suit a Year 12 school leaver seeking to become a trained professional, be paid while training and not incur tertiary education fees.

You will be trained as a cadet through the Deakin University training program for three years.

We pride ourselves on quality journalism with a strong community connection. The company is Australian owned by individuals with significant news media publishing knowledge and experience.

Our company is committed to providing an inspiring, creative workplace, and career that is rewarding.

The two positions will be based in Pakenham and Healesville.

We are seeking a person with the ability to display initiative and with a minimum Year 12 completion with good study results. You will be trained to newsgather and to produce compelling and timely content for our readers. Duties will include general news reporting, producing editorial content to support advertising features and special publications, photography, covering local events across the region, including some after hours, the ability to file stories to meet production deadlines and to assist with weekly print production, daily online content and proofing of editorial content.

Establishing strong community connections and being willing to take on a range of journalism tasks is important.

Essential Qualifications: A current driver’s licence and a reliable vehicle.

Please forward cover letter and resume to Garry Howe: garry.howe@starnewsgroup.com.au

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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.

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

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

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

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SPORT

Bowls off to steady start

By Mikayla van Loon After a delayed start to the bowling season, Mooroolbark Bowls Club are looking to hold a steady position in the division one league.

“We only just got promoted last year and we held our place. We’re looking to improve on that. We’ve got a couple of extra players in,” bowls section president Neville Roper said.

“Look, we think we will do pretty well but we’re probably not looking at finals because we’re nowhere near that. But if we can consolidate and finish fifth or sixth, that’s our aim to stay there.”

Mr Roper said the club’s aim for the season across all divisions is just to remain a competitive side in a very competitive league of bowlers.

“The division one side is very competitive and you’ve got just in our area Warburton, Yarra Glen, Heathmont, Donvale. All those clubs are in division one as well. So the bowling out here is very good, it’s a very good standard.”

With six teams registered to play on a Saturday and seven to play on a Tuesday, Mr Roper said Mooroolbark is one of the biggest clubs in the competition.

“I think the last count was about 160 odd people actually affiliated with Bowl’s Victoria so they can actually play pennant and that’d be one of the bigger clubs going around.

“All up we’ve got about 300 members and probably about 230 bowling members. We’ve got our pennant and then we’ve got some people who only pay a fee just to play social bowls on Wednesday and Friday.”

Mooroolbark Bowls Club have over 300 members, many of whom play social bowls during the week.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON While the competition side of the bowls club is a key element, Mr Roper said more importantly it is the social aspect of getting together to play a sport and have a chat that makes the club such a popular place.

“Because people were locked up for so long, all they wanted to do was get outside and talk to people. Our average age would probably be 70. So we’ve got a lot of elderly people that use

the club for their social life as well,” Mr Roper said.

“We don’t focus on the division one side but we also focus on making sure that the people are comfortable down here and there’s a lot of widows, divorcees, all that sort of thing and this is companionship for them.”

But while the ability to get back to playing bowls has been a blessing for many of

the members, from the management point of view, Mooroolbark Bowls Club has made the decision to only allow fully vaccinated members from all clubs play at the greens.

“Our club policy is you have to be double vaccinated to play here. You’d probably find if you went around to different clubs, they’ve all got different policies but we actually own this club outright and under those conditions, we can make it a club rule that visiting teams will have to be double vaccinated to play,” Mr Roper said.

“Some clubs at the moment have unvaccinated players playing, which is causing a lot of problems. Some clubs have pulled out and if you pull out you forfeit the game in competition.”

Nevertheless, Mr Roper said the club has been going strong with a good number of memberships and an excitement to return to playing.

Weekend pennant results - Saturday 27 November: Division one - Mooroolbark 84/17 PTS defeated Bundoora RSL 64/1 PTS Division two - Mooroolbark 63/0 PTS defeated by Heatherdale 87/18 PTS Division four - Mooroolbark 106/18 PTS defeated Ringwood 52/0 PTS Division four - Mooroolbark 68/0 PTS defeated by Box Hill RSL 101/18 PTS Division five - Mooroolbark 81/6 PTS defeated by Ferntree Gully 88/12 PTS Division six - Mooroolbark 88/16 PTS defeated Eastwood Golf 65/2 PTS

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Eastern Ranges players successful in draft pick

By Mikayla van Loon The Eastern Ranges have had a successful draft year once again with three players being picked up by AFL clubs on Thursday night.

Richmond, Adelaide and Geelong will welcome the three draft picks to their sides for 2022.

Midfielder Tyler Sonsie was selected by Richmond Football Club at pick 28 for his impressive performance in the under 16 Championships in 2019, where he averaged 23 disposals and two goals a game.

Richmond used its third pick to ensure Sonsie would be joining the club, hoping to draw on his ability to read the play and use the ball with genuine class on both sides of the body.

In an interview with Fox Sports after being selected Sonsie said he is excited to learn as much as he can from some of the greats of the game like Trent Cotchin and Dustin Martin.

At pick number 36, Jake Soligo will be heading to the Adelaide Crows as a midfielder and forward.

Throughout the 2021 season, Soligo averaged 23 disposals a game and finished the last three games with an average of 27 disposals.

Soligo is known for his quick skills and will

Tyler Sonsie will be joining Richmond Football Club after being drafted at pick 28.

Pictures: JED LANYON

Jake Soligo has been drafted to the Adelaide Crows at pick 36.

be a real asset to the rest of his teammates on the forward line.

Soligo was awarded Eastern Ranges Pennington Medal (best and fairest) in his topage campaign.

Flynn Kroeger was chosen at pick 48 by the Geelong Cats, a midfielder who has played off half back.

young man and part of our club.

“He’s worn the red blue and white with distinction throughout his junior career and we can’t wait to see what the next stage of his football journey brings.”

More Eastern Ranges players have the chance to be selected in the rookie draft on 26 November.

The boy from Wandin Football Club has made locals very proud and the Club took to Facebook to say they were speechless.

“Our favourite post of 2021.. Words won’t do it justice so we won’t even try.. Flynn Kroeger you star,” the post reads.

“We couldn’t be prouder of what he’s developed into, not only as a footballer but as a

Lilydale Sailing funding The Labor Government is providing more support to the community sport sector to help it recover from the pandemic and allow more Victorians to get active.

Community sport minister Ros Spence announced more than $10 million in grants through the fourth round of the Community Sport Sector Covid-19 Survival Package for 6,591 local associations, leagues and clubs across Victoria.

“Our local clubs and leagues are the lifeblood of local communities and that’s why we’re backing them as they recover from the pandemic and helping them thrive on the other side,” she said.

Lilydale Sailing Club was among other recipients like Sunbury Rebels Basketball Club, Bendigo Strikers Cricket Club and Gippsland Soccer League to receive funding. mailcommunity.com.au

Clubs will receive grants of $1,500 and local leagues and associations will receive $2,500 to help recoup lost revenue after the cancellation of training, development programs and competitions during the pandemic.

The program also enables grassroots community sports to safely operate, support their members and athletes, and assist in the development of COVIDSafe sports plans.

The Labor Government already provided $40 million through three previous rounds of the program to more than 6,970 clubs, 490 leagues and associations and 75 state sporting associations, state sport and active recreation organisations and regional academies. Previous recipients have been eligible for top up grants.

For more information about the Community Sport Sector COVID-19 Survival Package visit sport.vic.gov.au.

The Lilydale Sailing Club will receive funding from the State Government’s Community Sport Sector Covid-19 Survival Package. 256477 Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

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