Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 5th April 2022

Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

Mail A Star News Group Publication

2022 Easter is a special time for families and friends to reconnect and celebrate the precious gifts of life.

These holidays there is plenty to do around the Dandenong Ranges and Ferntree Gully, from Easter markets to church services.

Look inside for Easter entertainment ideas, delicious dining and messages from Star Mail advertisers

RANGES TRADER FERNTREE GULLY BELGRAVE

Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808

EASTER 2022

Hop into Easter egg hunt Connecting Cockatoo Communities Inc, is thrilled to be able to host the free Easter Egg Hunt again in 2022. They are partnering with the Cockatoo Country Market to provide a Covid safe event for two - eight year olds on Easter Sunday, 17 April.

To participate you need to register each child so they can ensure they have enough eggs and can manage numbers on the day. The event is on eventbrite https://2022cockatooeaster. eventbrite.com or follow the link from our facebook page On Sunday, 17 April registration will open at 8 am at Alma Treloar Reserve. You will be provided with a bag to collect your eggs in.

Two - five year olds will begin their hunt at 8.30 am, they can collect five eggs and then bring them to the registration area where they will be able to collect a chocolate Easter Bunny.

Six - eight year olds will begin at 8.50 am and also collect five eggs and then present themselves with their eggs to the registration tent to collect their chocolate Easter Bunny.

WHEN YOU FIND IT...

Grab it!

EASTER

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EASTER 2022

Only Mine’s Easter range is sure to delight everyone these holidays.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Make a day on the mountain and treat yourself to a dessert (or three).

Calling chocolate lovers

By Elle Cecil

Following the opening of the Olinda store, Anya and Jason allocated a small factory space in the building where products were made to sell in-store and online. Only Mine has since outgrown this factory space and has moved the factory to Cranbourne West, allowing a beautiful new seating area at the Olinda store.

This seating area is perfect for customers to enjoy the dessert bar, where you can taste a dessert bowl or signature hot chocolate, brewed with Australian full cream milk to create the

most chocolatey drink you can imagine.

“Our creations are the perfect product for gifting, even if the gift is for yourself,” Jason says.

“We’re still pushing for more and are excited to share more details of our expansion in the future.”

Only Mine is located at Shop 1, 540 Mount Dandenong-Tourist Road, Olinda.

For more information, phone (03) 5911 2578 or visit www.onlymine.com.au.

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After starting the business out of their kitchen in 2015 and opening their first store in Olinda in 2017, Only Mine chocolate-making husband and wife duo Jason Stockton and Anya Tran are excited to launch their Easter range.

Made up of speckled quail eggs, golden eggs, signature eggs, plush bunnies and the chocolate Easter bunny, Only Mine’s Easter range has something for everyone, including dairy free,

gluten free and vegan chocolate options.

“We have a passion for creating high quality products that are out of this world,” says owner Jason Stockton.

“We use only the best couverture chocolate from around the world, which we use to create unique, beautiful and delicious hand-crafted chocolates.”

“We’re driven by the positive feedback our customers give us, and work to maintain that quality in every product we create.”

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EASTER 2022

Holiday fun at the bowls Stretch your bowling arm and join the fun at Monbulk Bowling Club and Bistro this Easter.

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

“The downstairs lounge and bar area has been completely refurbished during the Covid-19 lockdown and now has a bright, modern feel,” explains Brendan.

“It’s a great place to relax with a drink or meet up with friends for a meal.”

The bistro offers great food for the whole family. On Wednesdays enjoy the $17 parma special. Thursday is the bowlers special - a burger, beer and bowls for $25. Kids under 12 can receive a free kids’ meal with the purchase of an adult meal on Sundays. Upgrade the kid’s meal to include a kid’s drink, ice-cream and activity pack for $4.

There is also a seniors’ menu for those 60 and over and seniors’ specials.

Gather your friends and family to watch the footy over a few drinks and support a local business, with all AFL games shown live at the club.

In the lead up to Easter, the club is running an Easter Hamper Giveaway. Receive an entry to win with any food or beverage purchase over $25. With nine hampers available, winners will be drawn on Thursday 14 April at 6pm.

With Mothers Day coming up, the club will also be open for lunch from 11.30am, with every mum going into the draw to win a Mothers Day hamper!

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

“It is a place where you really get that smalltown, easy going feeling with enough space

Sara (Mother’s Day) - With Mother’s Day coming up, the club will also be open for lunch from 11.30am. 274361 to cater for all sorts of catch ups from a few friends to large functions,“ said Brendan.

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

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

Monbulk Bowling Club and Bistro is at 11 Moores Road, Monbulk. The bistro is open Wednesday to Sunday from 5.30pm. For more information, visit www.monbulkbowls.org.

For bookings, phone (03) 9756 6183.

Lee with the Cadbury Easter Hampers. 274361

Knox Group members will be raising funds for the Good Friday Appeal.

Picture: CFA

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Tins rattle for appeal

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CFA Brigades in Montrose, Bayswater, Boronia, Ferntree Gully and Upper Ferntree Gully are determined to help raise $40,000 for the Good Friday Appeal in 2022.

In previous years, the CFA’s Knox Group has come close but just short of the goal.

The appeal raises money for the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Knox Group CFA Secretary Darryl Cardonia said after a meeting with the group of brigades, the target has been set and agreed upon.

Knox Group consists of eight fire brigades from Bayswater, Boronia, Ferntree Gully, Montrose, Rowville, Scoresby, The Basin and Upper Ferntree Gully.

Boronia CFA volunteer Bill Ireland has been raising money for the appeal for 50 years and said he will be collecting money outside the Boronia Hotel again this year.

“Collecting money for the Good Friday Appeal gives me a great feeling,” he said.

“My son was a patient at the Royal Children’s Hospital, and he endured many operations, so it’s my pleasure to help the hospital and the children out.”

Boronia Brigade Captain Ramon Relph said Boronia CFA has been raising money through a car washing event for the past six years.

“We feel it gives our juniors a sense of achievement and involvement when they collect for the RCH”, he said.

“As the Captain, it makes me proud to see the juniors give up their public holiday to help others. I have been in the CFA for over 20 years and look forward to Good Friday every year.”

The Basin CFA will be collecting money at BP Eastlink on Thursday and on Good Friday.

Montrose CFA volunteer Eddie Tichelaar said local elderly residents walk up to them every year to donate money they’ve saved up.

“Many no longer drive and enjoy just coming up and thanking CFA which is very generous.”

Mr Tichelaar’s daughter was diagnosed with a congenital heart block four months before she was born.

“For the next 16 years the RCH was a second home to our family,” he said.

CFA members have been supporting the Good Friday Appeal since 1951 by volunteering their time and raising funds for the hospital, having raised more than $35 million over 71 years.

The 2022 Good Friday Appeal will be held on Friday 15 April. mailcommunity.com.au

HAPPY EASTER

It’s all about Easter fun The Blue Lotus Water Garden have teamed up with Mad Hatter Theatrics and the Easter Bunny to provide a magical experience for children this coming Easter.

Eggcellent egg hunts will take place with the Easter Bunny and his storybook friends in the Flower Fairy Garden on Saturday 16th, Sunday 17 and Monday 18, April between 11am-1pm each day.

The Easter Bunny along with Alice in Wonderland, the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts and other characters will be in the gardens to entertain the children. Once the egg hunts finish, the children will be invited to take part in a wonderful roving pantomime featuring everyone’s favourite storybook friends. To keep the kids occupied for the rest of their visit, we also offer Garden Spotto activity which encourages them to find many interesting things around the gardens including our new Cascadia Falls, Kids Play Castle and the garden’s friendly Dragons.

The Blue Lotus Water Garden offers a fantastic destination for families over April with over 14 acres of stunning lakes, waterfalls and amazing plant exhibits to explore. Thousands of autumn flowers including sunflowers, impatiens, petunias, begonias, salvias and many others provide colourful vistas as visitors wander the grounds. Special garden exhibits not to miss include the Kakadu Lagoon with its display of rare native Australia waterlilies and of course the amazing Giant Amazon Waterlily with its huge lily pads.

If you’re looking for a great place to go with the family these holidays, then the Blue Lotus Water Garden is a must. Its facilities are outstanding with dozens of Bali style picnic huts, numerous BBQs, the Lily Pond Cafe and Ice Cream Shop plus a great retail plant nursery and two gift shops.

Easter Ticket Prices: Adults $20, Senior/ Pensioner $17.50, Egg Hunt + Child (0-15) $6, Child (0-3 excluding egg hunt) free For more information about the gardens, their Easter activities or to book tickets, please visit their website www.bluelotus.com.au or call 5967 2061.

* Egg Hunt Easter Saturday: 11am -1pm * Egg Hunt Easter Sunday: 11am -1pm * Egg Hunt Easter Monday: 11am -1pm

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EASTER 2022

Reflect and celebrate Belgrave Convention Centre will be hosting a four-day Easter Convention from Friday 15 April until Monday 18 April. Called Heroes and Hope, the program will feature guest speakers, prayer and activities.

Belgrave Heights Convention CEO Geoff Gawler said there will be three sessions a day with teenager and children’s programs running as well.

“People can come and stay, but at this stage, most people come and visit for a session or two or three,” he said.

“There are teenager and kids programs as well, where they have their own teaching sessions.”

The sessions start at 10am, 2pm and 7pm from Friday to Sunday with seminars between the latter two, and at 9.30am, 11.30am and 2.30pm on Monday 18 April.

Pastors David Roberson, Guy Mason and Barry Borneman will run programs throughout the day, with other events like sausage sizzles, young adult events from 8.30pm and a bookstore planned.

More information can be found at bhc.org. au.

Ferntree Gully Baptist Church will be running an Easter reflection on Thursday 14 April at 7pm, followed by a regular Sunday Easter Service on Sunday 17 April at 10am. Ferntree Gully Baptist Church is located at 17 Hunter Street Ferntree Gully, just off Forest Road.

St Thomas More’s Catholic Church Belgrave will host a Vigil Mass on Saturday 16 April at

Sacred Heart Church in Gembrook will have a 9am Sunday service on 17 April.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS 6.30pm and an Easter service at 9am on Sunday 17 April. The Church is located at 17 Terrys Avenue, Belgrave.

Belgrave Baptist Church will be running an Easter Service on Sunday 17 April at 10am and potentially a Good Friday service at 9am on Friday 15 April. An induction of their new Pastor Julian Holdsworth will be held the week before Easter on Sunday 10 April at 10am. Belgrave South Baptist Church is located at 169 Belgrave-Hallam Road, Belgrave South.

Sacred Heart Church in Gembrook will have a 9am Sunday service on 17 April. It is located at 95/93 Main Street, Gembrook.

St Paul’s Catholic Church will hold an 11am Sunday service on 17 April. It is located at 59 Moores Road, Monbulk.

Crosses at All Saints Anglican Church Selby during Easter to remember the Crucifixion.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Ranges Connecting Cockatoo Communities Inc. Presents

Details for Dandenong Ranges church services

By Tyler Wright

Easter Egg Hunt 8am Start Sunday 17th April Alma Treloar Reserve Children Aged 2 - 8 Free Registration Required: At Ranges First National or via the link.

With thanks to Cockatoo Country Market for their support Markets on 1st Saturday each month 8.30 - 1.30

9754 6111

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1 Bayview Rd, Belgrave 3160 Shop 2, 24 McBride Street, Cockatoo 12544298-DL14-22

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All Saints Anglican Church, Selby Felicity Podger is Church Warden at All Saints Anglican Church and Secretary of the Parish Council.

“It’s a nice community feel at any time with our church and we always serve a lovely morning tea. And we have three crosses that are put up in the garden, to replicate the crucifixion.”

Ms Podger said holding services on Zoom and Facebook throughout the pandemic weren’t “the same” as gathering in person.

“The Maundy Thursday service tends to be just members of our congregation. The Good Friday and the 9 o’clock Easter Day Service tend to be outsiders as well as the usual congregation,” Ms Podger said.

Families in the community tend to gather at the Church for the egg hunt on Easter Sunday, and events are publicised through local schools and the immediate community.

“We have some chocoholics amongst us,” she said.

“The gardening group in the following weeks find the eggs that weren’t found.”

Holy (Maundy) Thursday 7:30pm hand foot washing to replicate what Christ did before the Last Supper Good Friday 10:00am service Hot Cross Buns Easter Sunday 6:00am Easter Vigil (lighting of the Easter Light) 7:30am Breakfast 9:00 am service 10:00 am Easter egg hunt for the whole community after Silvan Weslyan Methodist Church, Silvan Good Friday: 9:00 am service Easter Sunday: Usual service 9:30am morning tea to follow Communion service Everyone is welcome as the doors open.

St George’s Anglican Church, Monbulk Good Friday - Morning Prayer 9:30 am Easter Sunday - Holy Communion 9:30 am

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Free Easter chocolate in Emerald from Cardinia Cardinia Shire Council will be hosting a free Easter egg giveaway at Emerald Museum and Lakeside Cafe on Easter Sunday, 17 April at 11am.

Anyone attending facilities in the Emerald Lake Precinct will be able to nab themselves free chocolate at the Nobelius Heritage Park

and Emerald Lake Park thanks to Cardinia Council.

An Easter craft workshop will also be hosted at Cardinia Cultural Centre, where children up to 12 years old are welcome for the school holiday workshop on Tuesday 12 April, from 10am to 12pm. mailcommunity.com.au

EASTER 2022

Family fun at the Emerald Rotary Easter Market

Easter egg hunters at the Tessalaar Kabloom event in 2019.

Tesselaar Kabloom’s first Easter Egg Hunt in two years is returning, as the community looks forward to celebrating the holiday with their families.

The event will be running from Friday 15 April to Monday 18 April, with seven egg hunting sessions each day and between 20 and 25 participants in each.

“Even though it’s targeted at young kids, we still get adults and people of all ages participating,” Melanie Rankin-Smith, Events and Customer Service Manager at Tesselaar said.

A unique symbol will be on each participants basket when they arrive, and they will have to rummage through hay and straw to find wooden eggs with this particular image.

made produce, hand-crafted wares, plants and more, so you’re sure to find a special gift.

Everyone in the community is welcome so head down to Emerald Primary School oval on Heroes Avenue between 8am and 1pm. With a gold coin donation entry at the gate, you’ll also be supporting the Rotary Club of Emerald & District to deliver its humanitarian initiatives and community events that raise vital funds to help people in need, locally and beyond.

Stalls are only $10. For more details and to book a stall, please complete the online form at https://forms.gle/N7Q3zG3ZtZuvm83X6. Alternatively, call 0408 769 491 or email emeraldrotarymarket@gmail.com.

The Easter market will take place on 9 April.

Picture: EMERALD ROTARY

Picture: SUPPLIED

Egg hunt at flower fest

By Tyler Wright

Now with an expanded array of crafts, produce, collectibles and treasures on offer, you’d be hopping mad to miss the Emerald Rotary Market with loads of pre-Easter fun this Saturday, 9 April.

The Easter Bunny is making a special visit, there’ll be an Easter egg hunt for the children and Rotarians donning Easter ears and bonnets will be sizzling sausages on the barbecue.

The Emerald Rotary Easter Market is also a wonderful opportunity to purchase a gift for mum or grandma, with Mother’s Day just around the corner.

There’ll be perfumed soaps, lotions and moisturisers, hand-made clothes, home-

Once they collect their five eggs the reward will be a pre-packaged bag of chocolate eggs and bunnies.

For the lucky group who finds the one special ‘Golden Egg’ in every session, they will receive an extra chocolate bunny.

“People are just itching to get out and about after so many lockdowns, but our event also provides an opportunity for people to get back to nature,” Ms Rankin-Smith said.

Ms Rankin-Smith said the demand for plants and bulbs has increased recently and has hopes a visit to Tesselaar over Easter will become tradition for families.

“It’s starting to build a bit of a following and it’s something to do on that weekend.

“There’s no argy-bargy or complaints about fighting over chocolate.”

r Open Door y Community Church

Easter Services Good Friday 9:30am Easter Sunday 10:00am

All Welcome mailcommunity.com.au

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Cnr Moxhams and David Hill Rds Monbulk

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Ranges Trader

Update on Strawberry cow investigation

A full Federal Budget break down

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PAGES 5-7

Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

Mail Monbulk’s disappearing murals

Selby grandmother writes local bird books

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A Star News Group Publication

Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808

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In Bloom After two years, Tesselaar Kabloom’s Festival Of Flowers has returned to Silvan. There are meadows full of flowers on display and colder weather is not deterring visitors from taking in the pops of colour spread throughout Tesselaar’s fields.

Weekends will see kids activities from Saturday 2 April to Monday 25 April, with food stalls and a crate maze catering to everyone’s needs.

Woodland characters based on the flowers will emerge out of the gardens to perform circus acts; an idea that was still being cemented at the last festival in 2019. Resident woodland fairy Teague will be there to tell the stories of the Silvan Glade.

Turn to page 8 for more

An array of flowers are on show at the festival.

Jayne Moxey and her son Liam enjoying some train ride fun at the Festival Of Flowers.

Pictures: TYLER WRIGHT

One of the flower fields at Tesselaar Kabloom for visitors to enjoy.

Ongoing closure

By Parker McKenzie Parks Victoria is hoping to reopen the Kokoda Track Memorial Trail, known as the 1000 Steps, in late 2022.

The popular 1.4km bushwalking trail in Ferntree Gully was severely damaged during the 2021 June storm event and has been

closed since. The Victorian State Government has invested $6.6 million for recovery works in storm-affected parks and reserves.

District manager Victoria Purdue said the trail received further damage after another storm event in October, following the June 2021 weather event.

“Many large trees and branches fell across the track, dislodging many of the concrete steps and damaging vast sections of safety handrailing and posts,” she said.

“Our crews have done a fantastic job to firstly assess the damage, and then to put together a strategic recovery plan. Significant

progress has been made to clear debris and fallen trees from the track, which hasn’t been easy given the limited space in which to work.”

To successfully reopen the trail, Parks Victoria will need to remove trees, repair damaged steps and replace handrails.

Continued page 3

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NEWS

IN BRIEF Planned burns

Cow investigation

Belgrave South CFA performed a three-hectareprivate burn with the assistance of Silvan, Belgrave and Macclesfield, Clemantis and Healesville CFA crews on Monday 28 March.

Smoke was seen in the areas surroundingBelgrave South. “Lots of planning went into the event making sure that conditions were at the optimumto achieve a full burn whilst not risking the firegetting out of hand.” More planned burns throughout the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley are expectedacross the next few weeks.

By Parker McKenzie The conditions which led to an emaciated cow being rescued from a farm in Avonsleigh before passing away are currently being investigated by the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions.

In the Star Mail’s story on 29 March, the cow died after receiving treatment from a local animal sanctuary, where “thousands of maggots were also found in her mouth as a result of prolonged and laboured breathing through her mouth.”

The cause of its sickness has yet to be established.

Local residents reported the incident to the RSPCA, who confirmed they received reports from the area regarding the cow, but referred it elsewhere.

“We did receive a report in the area around the time you highlighted, but as it pertained to more than 10 cattle, it was referred to the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions,” an RSPCA spokesperson said.

“RSPCA Victoria is authorised to investigate cruelty reports relating to livestock when fewer than 10 animals are involved. Welfare concerns for more than 10 livestock are investigated by the DJPR.” A spokesperson from Agriculture Victoria, the commercial arm of the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions, said they are aware of the situation.

“All complaints received by the department are taken seriously and investigated as appropriate in accordance with departmental investigative procedures.” the Spokesperson said.

Agriculture Victoria will not comment further as it is currently investigating the case.

Local resident Rod Macintosh said he is concerned about the treatment of cows in the

Learner drug driver On Sunday 3 April, a 26-year-old man was detected driving at 84km/h in a 70km zone on Cantebury Road at 10.20pm. Police said the man initially failed to stop, before he was apprehended after driving down a dead-end street and attempting to flee on foot. The man was found to have a suspended learner permit license and he returned a positive result of illicit drugs. His vehicle was immediately impounded for 30 days and he will face court for multiple charges including failing to stop on police direction, driving as a learner unaccompanied, driving while suspended, breaching an alcohol interlock condition, speeding and drug driving. Police said he faces a long stretch off the road if convicted.

Stolen car in Belgrave

The cow was rescued but sadly put down because of sickness. area and often sees them grazing on hot days without any access to shade or cover.

“In the hot summer weather you could fry an egg on the back of the cows,” he said.

Picture: SUPPLIED

“Things have changed in the past 30 years with the climate and farmers need to get smart to the idea that you need to look after your cattle.”

1000 Steps won’t reopen until late 22 From page 1 “Repairing damaged facilities such as stone steps and handrails along the track is a complex process that will take time to complete, as we must work through insurance processes, safety works, cultural heritage assessments, and planning and building permits,” Ms Purdue said.

“It will also be a labour-intensive task as all materials will need to be carried in by hand.”

Parks Victoria said in an online statement they have conducted a comprehensive assessment of the track and have put in place a program to restore visitor access as soon as it is safe to do so.

“The scale of the damage combined with the steep narrow terrain leading up the mountain has made access and the recovery task incredibly challenging. Despite these trying conditions, Park Rangers have made solid progress, clearing debris, branches and timber away from the track,”

Parks Victoria said.

“To make the track safe for walkers and visitors, the recovery task now requires clearing the track of remaining hazardous trees and branches, repairing the steps and replacing sections of the damaged hand railing.”

The 1000 Steps was created in the early 1900s and was originally made from tree fern trunks placed across the trail to make climbing easier. They were replaced by wooden palings before more permanent concrete steps were installed.

President of the Ferntree Gully Traders Association Kathryn Lowe said it is hard to gauge the impact of the 1000 Steps being closed on local tourism.

“They’ve been closed for quite a while now and its hard to judge coming out the pandemic,” she said.

“It’s more so the businesses in the Upper Gully on Burwood Highway it might have an effect on.”

The 1000 Steps has been closed since the 2021 June weather event. Picture: ON FILE

The Yarra Ranges Crash Investigation Unit is seeking more information regarding the identity of a man in relation to a theft of a motor vehicle in Belgrave on Sunday 6 March.

The vehicle was a Ford Ranger Ute which was stolen around 3pm, before being located burnt out on South Gipplsand Highway, Tooradin on Monday 7 March. Police ask anybody with information regarding the identity of the man to contact Yarra Ranges CIU on 9739 2401.

Police seek assistance Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate a 35-year-old man who frequents Ferntree Gully.

Andrew Coffey is wanted on a warrant for assault offences. Mr Coffey is known to frequent the Mooroolbark, Ferntree Gully, Ringwood and Pakenham areas. Investigators have released an image of Mr Coffey in the hope someone may have information on his current whereabouts.

Mr Coffey is described as having a fair complexion, slim build and red/blonde hair.

Mr Coffey is wanted by police.

Picture: EYEWATCH

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NEWS

Peri push ongoing

By Parker McKenzie

Cardinia Council has a mix of urban and rural areas within the shire.

Picture: ON FILE

Following calls from Yarra Ranges and Mornington Peninsula Councils to better recognise the mix of metropolitan and regional areas within their shire, could Cardinia Council join them in advocating to the State Government?

On Thursday 24 March, Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said Yarra Ranges Council would be working with Mornington Peninsula Council to advocate the recognition of peri-regional councils with the Victorian State Government.

“A significant amount of funding opportunities and programs provide eligibility based on classification of metropolitan or regional,” he said.

“For years, both Councils have had access to urban funding programs only, to deliver regional objectives and projects, “One potential solution to this is for State Government to recognise peri-regional councils — in the same way they have recognised peri-urban Councils — allowing Mornington Peninsula and Yarra Ranges to access funding and programs for both metropolitan and regional Councils, and better represent the different regions in our municipalities.”

When asked if Cardinia Council supports advocacy for any potential changes to its classification, a council spokeswoman said no decision had been made.

“It is not a matter council has considered to date,” she said.

“Council would welcome any changes that would benefit the local community.”

Cardinia Council residents form a similar makeup as the Yarra Ranges and Mornington Peninsula, with urban areas like Pakenham and more rural townships like Cockatoo, Emerald and Gembrook.

Yarra Ranges resident Stephen Odell said from his experience, residents of the area would rather be considered a country area and not a part of Yarra Ranges Shire.

“We out here are not a suburb, we don’t want to keep being the poor relation of a suburban Shire, we want recognition that this is country, through and through,” he said.

“Give us back our country status, let us look after our own issues, we don’t want, nor should we ever have been involved with a suburb of Melbourne.”

Shane Warne honoured

AUSTRALIA’S ECONOMIC PLAN

Thousands of fans attended Shane Warne’s state memorial on Wednesday 30 March at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The service commenced with a minute silence, Welcome to Country and the Australian National Anthem performed

by Greta Bradman.

Mr Warne was honoured by video tributes and live performances from international artists including Elton John, Ed Sheeran, Chris Martin, Robbie Williams, John Stevens and Anthony Callea.

Celebrity guests in attendance included high Jackman, Eric Bana, Russell Crowe and Kelly Slater. Cricket greats like Allan Border, former teammates and rivals all spoke at the memorial honouring the career and life of Mr Warne.

Eddie Maguire was master of ceremonies, and Mr Warne’s father Keith and brother Jason also spoke at the event.

The Service concluded with Mr Warne’s children Brooke, Jackson and Summer unveiling the newly named Shane Warne Stand at the MCG. Mr Warne passed away aged 52 from a heart attack while on holiday in Thailand. He is considered one of Australia’s greatest ever cricketers, creating memories throughout his career like the Ashes hat trick at the MCG, his 700th test wicket on Boxing Day and his famous ball of the century in 1993.

After first playing for Australia in 1992, he played 145 tests and 194 oneday internationals, taking over 1000 wickets in the process.

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13.3 million

+260 , 000 More people in work than before COVID 13 million

March 2020 - January 2022 12543734-JC14-22

Data: ABS Labour Force, Australia

Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra.

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Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

A memorial for Shane Warne was held at the MCG. Picture: ON FILE mailcommunity.com.au

BUDGET BREAK DOWN

Election budget revealed

By Parker McKenzie The focus of the 2022 federal budget was a pre-election bid to combat the rising cost of living for Australians, with residents in the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley set to see tax breaks, direct payments for welfare recipients and a reduction in the cost of fuel.

During his 2022 budget speech on 29 March, Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg announced a $420 “cost of living tax offset” for people earning less than $126,000 when they submit their tax returns later in the year, while pensioners and welfare recipients will receive $250 dollars to help soften the rising costs of living.

Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said more people are at work and fewer people are on welfare compared to a year ago.

“Individuals already receiving the low and middle-income tax offset will now receive up to $1,500 and couples up to $3,000 from the first of July this year,” he said.

“This measure comes on top of the $40 billion in tax relief already provided by our government since the start of the pandemic.”

People currently eligible for the low and middle income offset receive between $255 and $1080 dollars when they file their taxes, however, with the announced changes they will receive between $475 and $1500.

Mr Frydenberg said the $250 payment to pensioners and welfare recipients would be received within weeks.

“Six million Australians, pensioners, carers, veterans, job seekers eligible self-funded retirees and concession cardholders will benefit together within existing indexation arrangements,” he said.

“This will see a single pensioner receive more than $500 in additional support over the next six months just when they needed it most.”

The tax offset and payments are a part of the Federal Government’s “cost of living” package to reduce the impact of inflation and rising prices, which also included efforts to reduce the cost of fuel, with Mr Frydenberg also announcing a cut to the fuel excise by 22c a litre.

The fuel excise tax has been cut in half from 44c to 22c for six months, as a temporary measure to reduce the impact of rising petrol prices.

Mr Fydenberg said events abroad — like the Russian invasion of Ukraine — have pushed the price of petrol up.

“A family with two cars who fill up once a week could save $30 a week or around $700

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg announced the Federal Government’s pre-election budget.

Over the next six months,” he said.

“Whether you’re dropping the kids at school driving to and from work, visiting family and friends, it will cost less.”

Mr Frydenberg said the cut in fuel excise will take effect from 12am Wednesday 30 March.

“This cutting fuel excise which takes effect from midnight tonight will flow through to the bowser over the next two weeks,” he said.

“The competition watchdog will monitor retailers to make sure that the site savings are passed on in full.”

Also within the budget, $12 billion was also allocated in the budget towards road funding projects.

Tax deductions for small businesses that train new staff and invest in new digital economy were also included, with every $100 spent on these initiatives receiving a $120 tax deduction.

Wage subsidies for apprentices changed within the budget, with the previous Boosting Apprenticeship commencement scheme ending on 30 June.

New apprentices in “priority” occupations can receive up to $5000 and have up to $15,000 in wages subsidised. $9.9 billion has been invested in Australia’s

cyber security capabilities and $6 billion has been allocated for a range of measures to aid flood-affected communities. $1.3 billion was allocated within the budget to end violence against women and children.

The Home Guarantee Scheme will be extended to 50,000 places per year, with $2 billion allocated to the National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation in a bid to address rising house prices throughout the country.

The Federal Government also allocated $80 million in support for businesses to reestablish their export markets after they were heavily affected by the pandemic.

Those hoping for subsidies to encourage the uptake of electric vehicles and renewable energy will be left disappointed, however, with yearly expenditure on climate change measures expected to drop by 35 per cent by 2026.

There has also been a reduction in funding for the arts, with regional arts funding falling from $18 million to $7.5 million and support for film and television falling by $45 million.

Labor budget reply: Opposition leader Anthony Albanese’s budget reply focused on nursing in aged care, jobs through renewable energy, infrastructure and

Picture: ABC NEWS revitalising Australian manufacturing.

Mr Albanese said under a Labor government every aged care facility will be required to have a registered and qualified nurse on site every hour of every day.

“This will save thousands of stressful, expensive and ultimately unnecessary trips to hospital Emergency Departments, for issues a nurse could solve on the spot,”he said.

“Because every Australian living in aged care should get the medical attention they need, the moment they need it, day or night.”

He also outlined plans for ensuring residents in aged care facilities receive 215 minutes of care a day, backing a pay rise for aged care workers, better food for residents and giving the aged care Safety Commissioner more powers.

Mr Albanese said Labor will drive investment in cheap renewable energy and diversify the Australian economy.

“We’ll create 604,000 new jobs by 2030, with five out of every six in the regions, and lower power bills for households and businesses alike,” he said.

“Using our National Reconstruction Fund, we will work with business to help turn good ideas into good, secure jobs and new homegrown industries.”

Monbulk MP labels 2022 federal budget a “disgrace”

By Parker McKenzie Both federal and state Labor leadership have criticised the 2022 budget, with a lack of infrastructure funding for Victorian projects rasing the ire of the Deputy Premier.

Monbulk MP and Deputy Premier James Merlino said the Federal Government should support the Suburban Rail Loop project by “giving Victorian their fair share of funding.”

“The Budget papers show that Victoria will get less than 6 per cent of new infrastructure spending and nothing at all from the new $7.1 billion regional investment fund, and that’s a disgrace.”

“On infrastructure, that’s $208 million versus $1.1 billion for Western Australia, $1.3 billion for New South Wales and $446 million for Queensland.”

The Suburban Rail Loop is a proposed 90km rail line linking Melbourne’s suburbs with each other due to commence this year, projected to cost between $50 and $100 billion. The first portion of the loop proposed to be built runs between Southland station on the Frankston line and Box Hill station on the Lilydale line, which will take at least 25 years to complete. mailcommunity.com.au

Deputy Premier and Monbulk MP James Merlino called the funding allocation a “disgrace.”

Picture: ON FILE The State Government requested $11.5 billion over the next decade for the project, which was rejected by the Federal Government.

The Victorian Parliament’s Economy and

Infrastructure Committee report into Commonwealth Funding for Victoria, released earlier this month, noted in 2020-21 the state received 18.3 per cent of Commonwealth Infrastructure payments despite

making up 25.9 per cent of the population.

In the 2022 budget, Victoria was allocated a 20.4 per cent of infrastructure funding over the next five years.

Federal Shadow Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the budget doesn’t make up for a decade of attacks on wages, job security and Medicare that have hurt communities like Casey.

“It’s a ploy for an election, not the plan for a better future Casey needs and deserve,” he said.

“The Budget confirms pay still won’t keep up with prices, and almost nothing to show for a trillion dollars in debt.”

Mr Chalmers said after the challenges and sacrifices made during the pandemic and natural disaster, Australians needed a better budget for a better future.

“Even these billions of dollars sprayed around on the eve of an election won’t go near topping up the $3,600 local families are already out of pocket last year because of skyrocketing costs of living,” he said.

“Scott Morrison is only pretending to care about the costs of living because he has to call an election in the next fortnight, and he’s running out of time.”

Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

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BUDGET BREAK DOWN

Family violence support

By Mikayla van Loon The prevention and intervention of family violence has been recognised as one of the key pillars in the federal budget for 2022-23.

Under the proposed new National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children, the government has committed a total of $1.3 billion.

Four levels have been identified under the proposal, being prevention, early intervention, response and recovery and have each been allocated separate funding.

The breakdown includes $203.6 million for prevention measures like awareness-raising and education on consent, with $328.2 million for early intervention “including training for community frontline workers, health professionals and the justice sector”.

Extending the Escaping Violence Payment, $480.1 million has been proposed for the program to help victim-survivors recover from violence, while $290.9 million has been put towards what the budget papers call “a range of health and justice measures”.

The government has also allocated a sum of

$19 million for data collection and research for the next National Plan.

Program Manager of Inner and Outer East Family Violence at Anglicare Victoria and The Orange Door Erin Foot said one of the biggest issues surrounding family violence is the lack of education, so any work to improve that in the outer east would benefit the sector.

“A lot of people struggle to identify red flags and early indicators of violence in a relationship – slowly isolating someone from their friends and family, or controlling how they spend their money for example.

“Often victims are only provided with assistance once the violence becomes physical, despite them trying to get support well before it reaches that point. “Education, in the community as well as the service sector, is vital to help identify family violence in its early stages.”

Ms Foot said the sector is glad to receive whatever funding it can to go towards helping people identify violent situations, helping them leave and supporting them afterwards.

“Any funding that is directed to supporting women and children who have been impacted by family violence is very much welcomed.”

Climate hit

12543062-DL14-22

By Tyler Wright

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Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

Local climate action advocates are left bewildered at the Federal Government’s lack of funding for renewable energy in this year’s budget.

Australia’s Climate Council said 0.3 per cent of total expenditure for 2021-2024 has been dedicated to climate change initiatives, which will fall to 0.2 per cent in 2024-2026. Mandela Russell, 17 year old Dandenong Ranges local and member of the Mount Dandenong ‘School Strike 4 Climate’ movement, attended the Naarm or Melbourne march last Friday alongside other group members.

“Coming up to the election, we wanted to make the politicians aware about the decisions they have been making,” she said.

The march led into a weekend of multiple action events in conjunction with groups such as Extinction Rebellion, including a workshop on Saturday.

The Year 12 student said ahead of the federal election, the Federal Government needs to “face the issues” impacting all Australians, including First Nations Australians and children of this generation.

Dr Kathy Edwards is a Senior Lecturer in the Youth Work Program within the School of Global, Urban and Social Studies at RMIT University.

“I think young people will be very, very aware that the budget has done very little to actually realise the government’s 2050 emission target,” she said.

Dr Edwards said voters will be “quite angry” coming to election time because the Government is not taking into account the “reasoned arguments” made by young people; such as the impact of climate change.

She said investing in “environmental projects that are about creating renewable energy sources” would create jobs more effectively rather than the “sugar payments” proposed in the budget.

President of Healesville Community Renewable Energy Inc (Healesville CoRE) Jeff Barlow, said he would like to see two things from the Federal Government coming up to the election.

“One is a program for shutting down the coal fired power stations as quickly as possible and the gas fired power stations and phasing out coal mining as quickly as possible,” he said.

“And the second would have been implementing the bill that Dr. Helen Haines, the Independent MP for Indi introduced to the Parliament last year on Community Energy hubs throughout Australia.”

Mr Barlow said the impacts of climate change can be seen right across Australia, and locals have been expressing through conversation their frustration at a lack of action.

“We’re seeing changes in weather patterns, including storms that we had in the Dandenong Ranges last year, that created a lot of damage and brought down a lot of trees, create a lot of hardship for people.

And the increasing heat is drying out the bush and also creating worse conditions for fire storms,” he said. mailcommunity.com.au

BUDGET BREAK DOWN

Small biz set to benefit

By Parker McKenzie The Federal Government announced several new initiatives to support small businesses in the 2022 Federal Budget, including tax deductions for training employees and digital economy technology investments.

In his budget speech on Tuesday 29 March, Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg announced small businesses would be eligible to receive up to $100,000 in support from the schemes.

“Starting tonight for every $100 a small business spends on training their employees, they will get a $120 tax deduction, helping

them become more productive and competitive,” he said.

“We’re also backing small businesses that are embracing the digital revolution. From tonight, every $100 these small businesses spend on digital economy technologies like cloud computing, E-invoicing, cyber security and web design, they all get a $120 tax deduction.”

The treasurer spruiked the Liberal-National Coalition Government’s $13 billion investment in skills and training for apprentices during the speech and laid out their plans for future wage subsidies.

“A record 220,000 Australians now in a trade apprenticeship, the highest level since records

began back in 1963,” he said.

“Tonight we go further, with a $2.8 billion investment to increase the take up and completion rate for apprentices providing $5,000 payments to new apprentices and up to $15,000 in wage subsidies for employers who take them on.”

The new incentive scheme will replace the Boosting Apprenticeship commencement scheme, which ends on 30 June and offered employers a 50 per cent subsidy for apprentice wages up to $28,000 a year.

The new scheme offers lower-wage subsidies and is restricted in the occupations it is available for.

A smaller payment of $3,500 is available for occupations deemed “non-priority”, however, the list of priority and non-priority occupations has yet to be released.

925 residents from Belgrave, Selby, Emerald, Cockatoo, Ferntree Gully, Monbulk, Silvan, Mount Dandenong, Upwey, Tecoma, Boronia and Olinda commenced new apprenticeships from January until September in 2021, more than double the 435 who commenced apprenticeships in the same time period throughout 2020.

680 apprentices commenced employment in the same time period in 2019, prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mixed response to proposed Afghanistan refugee relief

By Callum Ludwig The announcement of a bonus intake of 16,500 refugees from Afghanistan in the 2022/23 Federal Budget has left advocates for refugees feeling conflicted.

While the decision answers the calls for assistance for Afghan refugees after the Taliban gained control, the four-year span of the intake means only 4125 more people will be allowed into Australia each year.

Member of the Casey Grandmothers for Refugees Prue Licht said any improvement in refugee numbers from Afghanistan is great, but their pressing situation leaves them vulnerable.

“People who are currently waiting in Afghanistan are in danger all the time. By the time they can be helped, they may have been arrested or have been forced to flee somewhere else,” she said.

The Casey Grandmothers for Refugees protesting outside Tony Smith’s office on International Human Rights Day 2021.

Picture: ON FILE “As much as the government tried in August, it’s been too little and much too late.

While it’s fantastic that we’ve got 16,500, it should have been immediately.”

There was also no increase in the total

global intake of refugees in Australia per year, with the Federal Government choosing not to increase the 13,750 person cap they have adopted, not including the increase in Afghan refugees. This is down from the target of 18,750 places in 2019-2020.

Ms Licht said she hopes the cap will be removed.

“We need to be responsive to the situation around the world as things happen. The job will be almost insurmountable, but there needs to an agreement between governments about how the problem is managed,” she said.

“There are still thousands of people from Syria in camps in Jordan and Turkey. 13,000 people in Indonesia, as well as Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, all over the Middle East, Africa, Iran and Iraq - now Ukraine as well.”

The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre was critical of the missed opportunity to help

refugees, citing the exclusion of refugees on temporary visas from emergency support, the continued historically low refugee intake and the immigration detention regime as policy failures that will hurt the most vulnerable.

Last year, Australia only accepted 5,947 from across its humanitarian programs, well under the 13,750 cap and the lowest intake in nearly half a century.

Ms Licht said she hopes the Australian attitude and policy toward refugees changes.

“We should immediately end mandatory detention and offshore processing and change the fairly complex system of visas and citizenship here,” she said.

“Maybe we need to allow people who want to come here to do so in an ordered way with some practical help for them. We are short of workers here, particularly agricultural workers. There are people who will willingly work with skills that could readily be used.”

Covid relief funding winds up, causing dip in arts spend The Federal Budget has seen a dip in arts and entertainment funding which has hit the hearts of community organisations who feel neglected.

After a tough time for the sector it was hoped more support would be provided to improve the outcomes for many creatives and build community resilience. Arts and cultural development went from $159,134,000 last year to $20,348,000 due to the Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) winding up, arts training dipped by $236,000, while film and television and Screen Australia also saw deduction in funding from last year’s budget.

Yarra Valley Arts CEO Kate Baker said a lack of funding opportunities for community based arts organisations shows there is ‘little value’ for arts as a whole.

“We have so many creative people living

and creating, and it’s as if that’s not acknowledged as a valuable contribution to society,” Ms Baker said.

YAVA hasn’t received any federal funding in the past and receives philanthropic support and small portions of council and state funding opportunities. Ms Baker said if the Federal Government supported more grass roots groups it would help to shape a strong path forward – especially coming out of the pandemic.

“If we had state or federal funding that supports community arts organisations like ours then we would be able to provide an environment where the community could gather and share in the arts.

“There are so many side line benefits that benefit the overall health and wellbeing of society and economically.”

YAVA has limited paid staff and volunteers, with 230 members and it provides support lo-

cally as an engagement hub and profiles the rich local talent. Ms Baker would like to see funding that could help create more employment within organisations like YAVA, especially for young creatives.

“If we were fully funded by Federal Government we would be able to offer more employment opportunities for locals to develop skills.”

Many young people are having to travel out of the area for work opportunities, something YAVA has knowledge in through its mentorship program. The program provided education to several mentees but Ms Baker said they are still travelling into the city in order to boost their careers and gain an income.

“If I could take on eight people a year then they could be part of the mentorship running a community arts organisation, providing transferable skills and it means they could learn here.”

Regional Arts also saw a drop in funds from over $18 million to $7.5 million although Regional Arts Victoria said it is pleased the Regional Arts Fund will again be supported.

“This support is at pre-Covid levels, with provision for indexation, noting that over the past two years, we have received additional one-off funding packages for Covid-19 response and recovery programs delivered through the RAF,” a spokesperson said.

“RAA will receive close to $3.7 million for the Regional Arts Fund in 2022-3, as part of a $22.5 million grant over the six years 2022-2027.”

The spokesperson for the not-for-profit advocacy group said it has received up to $15 million dollars from the Recovery Boost program and the Cultural Tourism Accelorator Program in 2020 and 2021 financial years.

The Federal Arts Minister was contacted for comment.

12541412-HC12-22

By Renee Wood

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Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

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MAIL 7

NEWS

Paul Tesselaar in one of the meadows visitors are able to venture through.

The pathway through a Tesselaar Kabloom meadow.

A field of sunflowers stands out toward the back end of the display.

Malva Sylvestris in one of Tesselaar’s meadows.

A flower stall at the Tesselaar Kabloom Festival Of Flowers.

Patsy taking Jayne and Liam Moxey for a journey on Tesselaar Kabloom’s train ride.

Flowers bloom for festival

By Tyler Wright

Jayne Moxey and her son Liam receiving their ticket to travel on the Tesselaar Kabloom ‘tractor train’ ride.

Paul Tesselaar, Managing Director of Tesselaar Kabloom surrounded by a field of Snapdragons.

Pictures: TYLER WRIGHT end], having had no festivals for the last two and a half years. It was really warming to see that people did want to come and support us and to enjoy a day out,” he said.

Inspired by annual plant fields in Japan,

most of the plants at Kabloom will be in flower for the entire show. Whereas during the Tulip Festival, you only get “about two thirds of it,” Mr Tesselaar said - and you do not have to be a dedicated gardener to enjoy the festival.

Patsy Parnall is loving her second day working at Tesselaar Kabloom.

“You get a lot of people just want to come and enjoy wandering the fields, enjoying the music, enjoying the entertainment, enjoying all the food trucks and the desserts and soft service packages.”

12541900-SN14-22

Tesselaar Kabloom’s Festival Of Flowers has returned to Silvan after a two-year hiatus revealing new fields of meadow flowers and sporting 100’s of plant varieties.

About 300,000 plants are on display at the festival, producing over three million flowers for visitors to enjoy.

Marigolds, sunflowers and snapdragons are among the colourful array of plants on display.

Paul Tesselaar, Managing Director and third generation of the family-run business, said the festival which began on Saturday will give Melburnians and locals a different experience to the annual Tulip Festival held in late spring.

“We wanted to give Melburnians another opportunity in the year to get up into the Dandenongs, get into the fresh air and to the nature that we’ve got here,” Mr Tesselaar said.

“There’s a lot of pent up energy to go out and explore and get out of town, get out of the city and explore our regions that have such a diverse, wonderful, rich variety of things for people to do and experience.”

Alongside the bright flowers that line the fields, circus entertainment is a main focus at the festival over the next three weeks.

“We’ve got pixies and sprites and woodland characters that will emerge out of the gardens, do a circus act and disappear again,” Mr Tesselaar said.

Food trucks, face painting, treasure hunts and garden games also feature at this year’s festival - attracting a wide range of visitors.

“You get a lot of families, young families, small children and then families that have teenagers, and then right up to elderly couples that come with another elderly couple.

“So it was fantastic to see so many people to come along and support us [on the week-

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8 MAIL

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Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

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NEWS

Bill support

By Tyler Wright Yarra Valley Water is encouraging residents to check their eligibility for a concession discount after a recent survey found about one third of customers were not aware they could receive money off their water bill by registering their concession card.

The survey was completed by phone and online throughout the last six months of 2021, as part of Yarra Valley Water’s Water Care Campaign designed to spread awareness of the available discount.

Pat McCafferty, Managing Director of Yarra Valley Water said while he knows people are sometimes not aware of their eligibility, it was still a surprise people are not claiming the entitlement from the Victorian Government.

“Quite often what happens is that if someone’s struggling to pay their bill, they’ll call us, and we work through a whole range of options to support them. But also hold their hand through the process to make sure that they do get the concessions that they’re entitled to as well,” Mr McCafferty said.

The campaign’s purpose is aimed to help clear up the confusion around eligibility, and ensuring those who require assistance receive help.

“We’re hitting a lot of social media, but also a lot of of publication through non-English speaking backgrounds. Also to people who have disabilities around hearing or are vision impaired,” Mr McCafferty said.

Despite Yarra Valley Water attempting to get the word out, some hills residents were not aware the concession discount existed.

Olinda resident Courtney McMahon said she assumed her concession was already registered, as it is with other utilities.

The Victorian Government accepts the Centrelink Pension Concession Card, Centrelink Health Care Card, a Department of Veterans’

The Mountain Ash named Eucalypt of the year

By Renee Wood

Yarra Valley Water’s WaterCare Team Member Janet.

Picture: SUPPLIED Affairs Repatriation Health Card or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs Pension Concession Card as valid concession for this discount.

Barbara Griffin, Emerald resident, has a Seniors Health Care Card, which is not recognised by the Victorian Government as a valid concession card for this service.

“It does annoy me as we have paid taxes for over 50 years and get no recognition at all from the state government,” Ms Griffin told Star Mail.

Mr McCafferty said Yarra Valley Water funded Financial Counsellors to train staff to tailor care to individual customers experiencing vulnerability.

“These are the sort of situations that our people are dealing with day in and day out, and why we need to continue to invest in programs that support people,” Mr McCafferty said.

“The seniors card isn’t a means tested benefit it just provides certain discounts (like train travel and tickets for museums etc) for people 60 or older.”

The Eucalyptus regnans, or the Mountain Ash, has been dubbed the Eucalypt of the Year for 2022 following a national poll by Eucalypt Australia.

The competition has been running for five years and the votes quadrupled from last year, with the most going towards the Mountain Ash which is one of the principal forest trees in the Yarra Ranges area.

Eucalypt Australia Linda Baird said it’s unique in Australia and internationally.

“It’s the tallest flowering tree or plant of any description in the world, we actually hold that, that is our native tree,” Ms Baird said.

The tallest known is in Tasmania at 100.5 metres, with a Eucalyptus regnans in the Black Spur standing at 86 metres tall.

“The interesting thing is that the tallest isn’t necessarily the oldest – they gain girth.”

“So they grow up really tall and straight, and then they just get wider and wider and wider.”

The tree is also vital to local biodiversity, home to threatened species through hollows including the Leadbeater’s Possum and Greater Glider.

The tree also faces growing issues with fire events sweeping through their habitat.

“They are obligate seeders, when the regnans get fire on fire on fire it’s really difficult for them because their seeds will only be viable once they become mature and they take around 20 years to become mature.

“If you’re getting back to back fire events, that gets really really difficult.”

The Ada Tree near Powelltown is a popular Mountain Ash. Picture: ON FILE The poll aims to engage with the public to promote the diversity of Eucalypts, with 988 species, and to grow a greater understanding of what’s in your urban environment.

Second place went to the Red Flowering Gum, Corymbia ficifolia and the Sydney Red Gum, Angophora costata, came in third.

Ms Baird said the poll delivered a healthy competition on social media as those in the West rallied to back the Red Flowering Gum, with a sense of pride growing among voters about what’s in their backyard.

For those wishing to see a Mountain Ash, they can be spotted in many areas across the Yarra Ranges including in the Upper Yarra and the Dandenong Ranges.

The Ada Tree is also popular Victorian mountain ash in Powelltown, which stands at around 76 metres tall and is estimated to be over 300 years old.

Walking tracks to see the giant Eucalyptus can be accessed by the Ada Tree Picnic Area and car park on Ada River Road, Powelltown.

The Autumn Edition of your favourite family magazine is out now...

Pick up a printed copy of Yarra Ranges Kids Today Magazine from outlets everywhere.

12540256-SG12-22

Or, read the full digital edition as it appears in print now!

Read it now Scan the QR CODE

OR VISIT: yarrarangeskids.com.au/digital-editions mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

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MAIL 9

YOUR COUNCIL UPDATE

Shape your Cardinia Life -----Our much-loved indoor aquatic and leisure facility, Cardinia Life, is reaching capacity and we’re planning for its proposed redevelopment!

We’re seeking feedback to develop a draft design for the proposed redevelopment and to help us seek funding for this significant community asset.

We want to know how you currently use Cardinia Life, what you love about the centre and what you would like to see in the future.

Feedback open until 15 May. • Online survey: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay • Phone: 1300 787 624 • Register for a focus group or workshop: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay • Join a drop-in session: – Saturday 2 April 10–11:30am, Cockatoo Market – Saturday 2 April 12:30–2:00pm, Koo Wee Rup Shopping Centre – Wednesday 13 April 1:30–3:30pm, Cardinia Life

Free waste drop-offs are back Our popular free waste drop-off events are back for 2022.

‘Detox Your Home’ provides a safe way to dispose of unwanted toxic household chemicals without harming your health or environment.

Saturday 9 April 9am–2pm. Council Depot, 18 Purton Road, Pakenham Registration essential. Delivered in partnership with Sustainability Victoria.

Registrations for 2023 kinder now open

Free plants for residents!

We’re encouraging families to register for 2023 kindergarten places by 30 June this year to be considered for first-round offers.

Cardinia Shire’s annual indigenous plant giveaway is here!

Registrations received after 30 June 2022 will be processed in second and later offers.

Register online using Council’s Central Registration Portal, visit: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/kindergarten or call 1300 787 624

‘DrumMuster’ provides commercial and residential disposal for eligible, cleaned agvet chemical containers.

We’ve joined with the Cardinia Environment Coalition Nursery to give away 2 free native plants to the first 1,000 Cardinia Shire households who take up the offer.

Plants are available from 9am–12pm on Fridays at Cardinia Environment Coalition Nursery, Deep Creek Reserve (62 Cameron Way, Pakenham) until Friday 17 June, or while stock lasts.

Proof of residency required.

For more information on the giveaway and local native plant nurseries in Cardinia Shire, visit the website.

Saturday 9 April 9am–12 noon. Council Depot, 18 Purton Road, Pakenham No registration required.

www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/nurseries

www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/dropoff

Connect magazine goes digital

Have your say

Sign up for our new e-newsletter, launching soon.

Visit: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/enewsletters

Jump online and provide your feedback on a number of current projects: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay

Bin collection

Roads projects

Check your bin collection days online: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/binday

Find out what’s happening with our roads.

Visit: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/betterlocalroads

The information on this page was correct at the time of print, but for the most up-to-date information:

Cardinia Shire Council Phone: 1300 787 624

Web: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au

Email: mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Translated resources: Cardinia Shire Council: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/translate Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS): 131 450 (ask for 1300 787 624) 12542274-JC14-22

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Disappearing act

By Parker McKenzie After a campaign to create artistic murals throughout Monbulk in the 1990s, many of the art pieces are slowly disappearing.

In March 2022, a mural depicting timber mill workers at the old Monbulk Produce Store was painted over. The location is currently Murphy’s Outdoor and Camping and it is unclear if there are plans to restore or replace the mural.

Many of the murals around the Monbulk Township were created in the 1990s, after Thea and Jack Pater visited the Tasmania town of Sheffield, where murals were erected in 1986.

“I was very impressed by the murals and I thought something like this could do wonders for Monbulk,” Ms Pater said in 1994.

“Monbulk is rich in pioneering and colonial history and murals depicting themes like this could be a big drawcard for tourists.”

A steering committee was formed by residents on March 30 1994 with the support of local businesses, raising $8000 in six weeks to create the displays.

The first mural was unveiled on Saturday

25 June 1994 and with more being created in the weeks and months that followed, including murals depicting colonial life and sporting culture were painted at the Monbulk Bowling Club and Commonwealth Bank building.

Artist Barry Drinian painted the Bowling Club mural over four weeks in 1997, the eighth to be created in Monbulk.

“The mural has not only enhanced the building but also reflects the intent of the gaming and sporting complex to involve all local clubs,” bowling club secretary Peter Van Haaster said at the time.

The Monbulk Historical Society assisted with local historical images to inspire the artwork created on the murals.

Monbulk Historical Society President Armin Richter said with eight murals created in the town, the project began to stall and slowly some of them disappeared.

“The old Post Office, on the Corner of Main Road and Emerald-Monbulk Road had termite infestation and was demolished and has since been replaced by Aldi. The Bowling Club also renovated and repainted their wall with a new design,” he said.

“In 2012 two more murals were placed in the laneway beside the Friends On The Hill cafe and in 2020 Tim Bowtell, a well-known painter of silo murals, was commissioned to produce two murals for the Monbulk Historical Society which are located in the Monbulk Community Hub.” He said two of the remaining murals were recently painted over and only a few still remain.

“With only a handful of murals remaining, Monbulk And District Community Opportunities Working group, which has succeeded the Monbulk Traders Association, is looking to explore more opportunities to again produce Murals in Monbulk,” Mr Richter said.

“One opportunity appears to be the retaining wall for the new netball courts which overlook the football ground.”

The Monbulk And District Community Opportunities Working group was contacted for comment.

Murphy’s Outdoor and Camping was also contacted for comment.

Julian Assange’s father to visit screening

By Parker McKenzie A screening of a documentary about Julian Assange’s father and his campaign to free his son will air in Belgrave on 17 April, followed by a question and answer session.

77-year-old John Shipton will attend the 2pm screening at Cameo Cinemas and answer questions from attendees afterward.

ITHAKA was filmed over two years throughout Europe and the United States as Mr Assange fights a court battle in Britain to prevent his extradition to the United States.

Raine Sinclair helps with logistics for the film screenings and raises awareness about Mr Assange’s battle by visiting places like Belgrave and Upwey and gathering signatures to petition the local Federal Member.

“That smear campaign against him really did a good job to turn people against him,” she said.

“People didn’t want to be associated with him with WikiLeaks, or with anyone like me, that was still trying to fight for his freedom.”

Mr Assange came to international attention when Wikileaks, which he founded, published a series of leaks provided by a United States intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning in 2010. The documents revealed that the United States Military had killed civilians in unreported incidents throughout the Afghanistan War. Sweden issued an international arrest warrant for Mr Assange over allegations of sexual misconduct in November 2010 and after losing his extradition appeal, Mr Assange took refuge and was granted asylum in the Embassy of Ecuador in London where he remained until 2019.

Raine Sinclair has been gathering signatures in Belgrave and Upwey to present to the local member.

Picture: ON FILE Despite no longer facing extradition to Sweden, Mr Assange was charged by the United States under an espionage act after his asylum was revoked and is currently fighting his extradition to the United States in the British courts.

Ms Sinclair said the Australian government as a whole has offered very little support to Mr Assange despite being an Australian citizen.

“It seems like other countries are supporting him more than the Australian Government,” she said.

“There is this parliamentary friends group that called the Bring Julian Assange Home Parliamentary Group.”

28 federal members have joined the Bring Julian Assange Home Parliamentary Group, including Liberal-National, Labor, Greens and independent members.

Directed by Ben Lawrence, the film is currently being toured around Australia to raise awareness and support for Mr Assange.

Ms Sinclair said people have been moved at previous screenings, which have seen cinemas sold out.

“I recommend taking tissues along because you get to see the cold, hard facts behind the scenes,” she said.

“This family is not really that much different from your regular family out here, except Julian exposed war crimes.”

Mr Assange was recently refused an appeal against extradition to the United States by the Supreme Court of Britain, as he awaits a decision in court.

He briefly lived in the Dandenong Ranges in his youth and attended school in Upwey.

Cameo Cinema is located at 1628 Burwood Highway, Belgrave. More information regarding the screening of ITHAKA can be found on the Special Q&A screening of ITHAKA with father of Julian Assange, Mr John Shipton Facebook Page.

Capturing the Ranges

By Parker McKenzie Composer Edward Willoughby’s debut album Moving Mountains aims to capture the surrounds of the Dandenong Ranges, where the album was recorded, through sweeping piano melodies and vibrant aesthetics.

Willoughby said the album was written and recorded over ten years.

“I spent about five years living on a goat farm in Cockatoo overlooking the Dandenong Ranges and surrounds, and that’s where the bulk of the album ended up being composed,” Willoughby said.

“It was just about a connection to place and how that place made me feel. It was quite a magical view to kind of wake up to every morning, so that really kind of set the tone for where I was kind of situating myself creatively at the time.”

Willoughby has performed supporting sets at venues throughout the region, including Burrinja Cultural Centre, The Skylark Room, Dandenong Ranges Music Council, Emerald Summer Sounds Festival and hillsceneLIVE. Willoughby said the album was a different experience from their previous projects in film and dance scoring.

“The main difference with those kinds of forms is just the structural limitations and I found for myself, that structure was a big element in my storytelling through soul,” they said.

“Having the freedom to be able to allow melodies to kind of go where they naturally want to go, rather than where, you know, a particular scene or a time fragment might allow was was much better for me to allow that sense of sprawling freedom.”

The album reflects a deeply personal journey for Willoughby, who is a proud queer-feminine musician.

They have previously contributed to a 48-hour film project titled The Immortal Game and scored the live dance work Excavate, which won the best dance award at Adelaide Fringe.

Willoughby hopes the event is an opportunity to share their music more openly.

“I’ve been notoriously secretive about my music for a number of years, being a very shy performer,” Willoughby said.

“So for a lot of people, including some of my close friends and family, this will be the first time that they’ve heard any of any of the songs on the album.”

A first listening of the album will be held at The JazzLab in Brunswick on Tuesday 19 April. More information regarding the event can be found at www. thejazzlab.com.au/event/edwardwilloughby/

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Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

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MAIL 11

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Stepping into art studios

By Tyler Wright Private art studios opened throughout the hills on the weekend showcasing local creative talent, as 37 studios around the Dandenong Ranges were accessible to the general public.

The Burrinja Cultural Centre held the event in partnership with Yarra Ranges Council and Yarra Ranges Tourism in an effort to invite visitors into the minds of local artists.

Toni Main, Community Development Producer at Burrinja Cultural Centre, said those who book tickets to the Open Studios weekend do not just want to see art.

“They want to go a bit deeper,” she said.

“You get to experience the making scapes that inspires that artist.”

For artists to feature in the weekend a selection panel must approve their application, considering things such as parking accessibility, location and the experience offered to visitors. The studios used have to be an already existing ‘making space.’

The event is in its 19th year, and Ms Main said they usually see about seven thousand to eight thousands visitations to the hills on the open weekend.

“The artists are being really generous by opening their doors to the public to come and see everything they do.”

“It’s totally free. Some of the artist also run workshops, demonstrations, performance events as part of the weekend, and sometimes there’s some charges for those.”

Ms Main said there’s something “beautiful” about creators sharing their experience as makers with each other.

“If you’re someone that is interested in finding out more about artwork and purchasing artwork, it’s always better to have that conver-

Shibuchi Earrings created by melting copper and silver together.

Artist Helen Campbell working with Sterling Silver at her workbench in Olinda’s Tall Tree Studios.

Pictures: SUPPLIED sation directly with the artist about the artwork. Why they made it, what inspires them?

You’re taking so much more back with you in that item you’ve purchased.”

For Helene Campbell, Mount Dandenong Resident and wearable jewellery maker, the Dandenong Ranges Open Studios are a learning experience as well as a place she can share her creative process.

“You learn so much from other artists,” she said.

“It’s always interesting. It sparks off experimentation.”

Her Olinda studio is home to herself and an

apprentice who work with aluminium, silver, gold and other mediums.

A retail front lies in the Tall Trees Studio where 23 other Victorian creators sell their art.

Ms Campbell’s passion for jewellery begun early in life but her dream of becoming a jeweller was shut down at 16 because of expectations placed on her.

“Girls didn’t do apprenticeships... And so I went and did nursing.”

It was after a foray in the corporate world she had an “epiphany” and went to study an Advanced Diploma of Jewellery Manufacture at Melbourne Polytechnic.

“I’ve come to it late, which is why I’m more contemporary rather than a fine jeweller,” she said.

“I prefer to play with the metals rather than follow a prescription.”

The artist’s first experience with the ranges Open Studios was in 2019, but this year brings a new level of excitement after lockdowns stunted both Helene’s business and creative scope.

“You can’t work in isolation, because if you do you become very stale and out of date very quickly,” she said.

“But I’ve bounced back and I’m probably more creative now and more resilient as a result than I was before.”

Over the weekend people looked through the Tall Trees Studio window to watch flame oxidizing work, and ventured into the workshop to look at and touch tools.

Ms Campbell said event booklets went like “hotcakes” in the community and people were looking forward to finally seeing how she works.

“I work with a lot of interesting gemstones, things that you don’t normally get to see at normal jewellers.”

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WELCOME TO SQUITCHY LANE CELLAR

Explore Squitchy Lane It’s autumn in the Yarra Valley, a picturesque time of year and a perfect time to visit and taste at the Valley’s finest wineries - if you are planning a trip to some of the more well-known wineries, be sure to also check out the smaller, family-owned independent cellar doors too.

One such vineyard, Squitchy Lane Wines (owned by Mike Fitzpatrick of Carlton Football Club fame), is off the well-worn path in the heart of Gruyere and as the 2022 vintage ends in the vineyard, the hard work is just getting underway for the winemakers.

Squitchy’s sales and marketing manager Michael Smith tells us that “although the crops were smaller than normal due to poor weather conditions in spring, the quality of the fruit is exceptional.“ “Our whites are in oak already and our red ferments are ticking along. The pinot is looking particularly fine so far.“ What happens next in the vineyard?

Well, for vineyard manager Steve Sadlier,

Check out all that Squitchy Lane has to offer.

work has already begun on a staged replanting program.

Industry trends, resilient rootstocks and shifting local conditions drive the program - so far, they’ve removed a small block of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc which has allowed new plantings of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir.

Malbec, a new varietal for this winery will be planted later in the year.

Visiting Squitchy is a real treat. Its intimate cellar door sits atop a hill with views over their vineyards, a quiet spot to enjoy a guided tasting and cheeseboard, featuring locally made Stone & Crow Cheese.

Looking to the future, Mr Smith mentioned there are plans to develop a private event space and premium accommodation offering.

Squitchy Lane Wines is open Friday to Sunday 11am -5pm and is located at 9 Medhurst Road, Gruyere, 5964 9114, squitchylane.com.au

Get off the beaten track and visit Squitchy Lane Vineyard.

9 MEDHURST ROAD, GRUYERE squitchylane.com.au Tastings | Friday - Sunday | 11am - 5pm

12541136-JC14-22

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MAIL 13

NEWS

GET BACK

TO THE FOOTY Suspected mange infected wombat spotted at the back of Emerald Lake.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Look out for mange

Tickets to selected games

By Tyler Wright Mange Management is urging locals to report wildlife who appear to be affected by mange, after a hills resident recently spotted a wombat suffering from the condition at Emerald Lake.

The skin infection caused by a parasitic mite can infect both mammals and humans with signs of the disease including intense itching, thickening of the skin, lethargy and lack of awareness, according to Wildlife Health Australia.

Katja Gutwein, secretary and founding member of Mange Management, the cooler temperament in from Autumn through to early Spring leads to an increase in reports of mange in wildlife, and increased community awareness is vital.

“Some people think it’s mud on the wombat, or just a skin rash. They don’t realise they’re going to perish if they don’t get treated,” Mrs Gutwein said.

“One thing we’d like to see is that a population survey is being done, coordinated by the State Government, because we need to have a baseline on how many wombats we’ve got in total, and how many of them have mange,” she said.

Emerald local Katrina Chart posted an image on a local Facebook page taken by her daughter of a wombat with severe skin dryness and suspected mange.

BUT HURRY!

“It broke my heart to see the poor Wombat looking like this. I was thinking how it must be in so much pain, I just wanted to get it some help,” Miss Chart told Star Mail.

The wombat was spotted on Sunday at the back of Emerald Lake and Miss Chart said it is the first she has seen in the area.

Mrs Gutwein said while not enough research has been done into how these parasitic mites are surviving, the climate around areas like Gembrook and Emerald could explain increased sightings of infected wildlife.

Mange Management provides education and advice on the condition across the state, while gathering data and resources to help affected animals and reduce the spread.

It also offers free direct application Cydectin treatment kit for landowners to treat affected wombats on their property, with a ‘burrow flap’ also available to avoid unnecessary stress for the animal.

Mrs Gutwein said the best thing for locals to do is contact Mange Management and fill out a report form if they spot an infected wombat.

Submitting images of the wombat is also important to assess the mange.

“We are concerned that wombat numbers are going to decrease, between all the threats they face.

“If a population survey had been done 1020 years ago, everyone would be shocked at how many wombats we’ve lost in that time.”

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12543807-HC14-22

Yarra Ranges Council opens event grants With the first year anniversary of the June 2021 storm event in the Yarra Ranges coming up, Yarra Ranges Council has announced a quick-release small grants program for communities to organise their own social and wellbeing activities.

Community groups or small not-forprofit organisations can request funding of up to $400 per activity/event.

Mayor Jim Child said the financial contribution is on offer to community groups or organisations for activities that reach out to storm-affected residents in their community to support their ongoing recovery journey.

“The June storm affected a huge percentage of our municipality and as we approach the start of the first anniversary, it’s important to recognise every person, family and community is at a different place in their recovery journey,” Cr Child said.

“Events or activities should respond to an identified community need and ideally the outcome of these activities will be improved social connection and wellbeing.”

A total pool of $6000 has so far been allocated for existing not-for-profit community

Grants are available for events around the one-year anniversary of the June 2021 storms, which caused immense damage around the Dandenong and Yarra Ranges.

Picture: ON FILE groups and small community organisations located in storm impacted areas to host free small events/activities between Friday 27 May and Friday 24 June.

Events and or activities that have already received funding from Council are not eligible for additional funding.

Applications are due by 5pm, Thursday 7 April and must be submitted via the SmartyGrants website. mailcommunity.com.au

MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Paul and Danni at Mountain Gate Eyecare.

Danni helping a customer. 270917

Support local optometrist Mountain Gate Eyecare has been an established family owned business for over 40 years.

As a local independent optometrist, they are proud to be a loyal health care provider for their local community.

Being one of four generations to the local area, the owners Danni and Paul are fully qualified Optician and Technician, who have dedicated their career to the optical industry for over 30 years.

In their practice they have become familiar

with each individual patient, in order to customise eye exams and treatment options, always ensuring every visit is welcomed with a vibrant, warm, positive experience.

All their frames are hand selected from high fashion frames to a range of products to cater for all budgets.

They offer spectacles to DVA patients and also safety spectacles if required.

Mountain Gate Eyecare onsite lab uniquely

offers faster returns for urgent spectacles and are there to help with any on the spot repairs.

Their practice is easily accessed straight from a carpark to their door also enabling wheel chair access.

Mountain Gate Eyecare offer Medicare bulk billing, which includes free retinal photography.

Their optometrist offers a full range of eye health services, all with personalised atten-

tion to maximise your vision and health of your eyes.

Mountain Gate Eyecare optometrist Edward has high expertise and is therapeutically endorsed, allowing a more thorough consultation enabling him to treat and diagnose a wide range of eye conditions, such as glaucoma, dry eyes, and cataracts just to name a few.

Mountain Gate Eyecare look forward to proudly servicing your eye care needs, making it a great experience.

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MAIL 15

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OPINION

Action on feral deer issue Throughout my time as State Member for Monbulk, I have met with local environment groups and have received numerous calls and emails from concerned residents about the devastating environmental impacts feral deer are having on the Dandenong Ranges. Feral deer present a significant threat to our native plants, wildlife habitat and water quality, as well as damaging community assets and sites of Aboriginal cultural significance. That’s why I was really pleased to announce recently that the Andrews Labor Government has just released Victoria’s first region-specific deer control plan, the Peri-urban Deer Control Plan.

The plan sets out a long-term coordinated approach to control feral deer numbers in the outskirts of eastern and northern Melbourne, including in the Dandenong Ranges. The

The state of

affairs James Merlino MP Member for Monbulk long-term coordinated approach will reduce the threat feral deer pose to the environment, farming, public safety and Aboriginal cultural heritage.

This means that high priority waterways, national parks and reserves will be targeted for deer control within the Yarra Ranges Council

Engaging, informative A review of Costa’s World by Costa Georgiadis Do you know the Eastern Regional Libraries have a Seed Library available at eight of its branch libraries?

In ERL’s words, it is “a free borrowing service aiming to cultivate a thriving community of gardeners and seed savers, while building and sharing knowledge, and fostering community resilience, self-reliance, and a culture of sharing”.

As we donate, borrow, sow and grow the seeds from our local libraries – and as the prices of fresh vegetables and fruit are likely to remain high for months – now is a good time to dig into Costa’s World by Costa Georgiadis, host of ABC TV’s Gardening Australia.

Those expecting an easy-peasy read about growing flowers, herbs and vegetables will be pleasantly surprised, as the book reflects Costa’s philosophy and expertise in sustainability to such an extent that it can be seen as a great piece of popular science writing.

And it is much more than gardening. From biodiversity to biosecurity, from foraging to farmers’ markets, from kids to communities, and from beneficial insects to chickens – it is all about living sustainably, regeneratively and harmoniously, with nature and with each other.

In his writing, Costa often mentions how his grandparents as first-generation migrants fostered his early interest in gardening and sharing, and how his parents built upon that foundation to infuse community in him.

“It was expected that we would participate in conversations and learn from everyone, no matter who they were, what they did, how old they were or what culture they came from... I see community gardens and the growing and sharing of food resonate with the same notes of inclusion and communal ethic that echoed throughout my youth.”

That resonance is prominent throughout

PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN the book, as Costa takes a holistic approach to inspiring innovation, connection and collaboration, as well as mutual understanding and respect. It applies not only to our friends and neighbours, but also to our environment and natural resources.

Costa also refers to numerous community and school projects, as well as experts and industry professionals, whose visions, insights, achievements and hard-earned knowledge and skills have helped to make our world a better place. Readers are invited to “dig deeper”, learning from these role models and applying the principles to their own gardens.

The chapter on permaculture is one of the most explicit and accessible writings that anyone would ever see. Also enjoyable are the chapters on various garden friends, as Costa’s love and passion for these creatures is so contagious, it brings a smile to your face.

Most importantly, there is an everlasting “infectious enthusiasm” in Costa that makes his writing engaging, entertaining and informative. In his own words, it is a “capacity to tell a story and create a narrative that shifts perspective and opens up new ways of thinking. looking and acting in the world”. It is every storyteller’s dream – to captivate, stimulate and excite.

As the book’s subtitle suggests, Costa’s World is all about “gardening for the soil, the soul and the suburbs”. Highly recommended.

area. In addition, grants will be available to the council and land managers to undertake safe control activities, including sustainable hunting.

I recently joined my friend and Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll in Belgrave to check out the start of construction at Belgrave Station and the fantastic new temporary commuter car park at Upwey Recreation Reserve.

The temporary carpark is within walking distance to Upwey Station and will accommodate the parking lost at Belgrave Station whilst works are underway on the new 640-space carpark. An improved oval, new pedestrian path, fencing and lighting are being delivered as part of the project. Completion of the new carpark is scheduled for mid-2023 and will include enhancements to the existing bus interchange

such as new signage and additional seating, road widening to improve access to the car park and upgraded safety features, including CCTV, lighting and a public announcement system. Additionally, contracts have been awarded and works will shortly commence on the delivery of 30 new and upgraded spaces at Upper Ferntree Gully Station.

Finally, I would like to acknowledge the hard-working school staff and students who will wrap up Term 1 next week for a well-deserved break. It’s fantastic to see kids back in the classroom and I’ve especially enjoyed visiting local schools, like Monbulk Primary and Ferny Creek Primary to present badges to the school leaders and congratulate them on their achievements. I’m looking forward to visiting more of our wonderful local schools in Term 2.

Former doc the lifeblood Morbius Starring Jared Leto, Matt Smith and Adria Arjona Rated M Morbius is a severely unfocused vampire action film carried by its antagonist.

Michael Morbius (Jared Leto), a genius doctor with a debilitating blood disease, becomes a vampire in his quest for a cure.

The star attraction of Morbius is Michael’s brother Milo/Lucien (Matt Smith), who has the same blood disorder. The performances are solid yet very low-key, but Smith brings brash, swaggering life to the proceedings as a man who embraces his own vampirism and the monstrous freedom it gives him (and the Doctor Who references are amusing). The plot is driven by a decent sibling rivalry, with an effective twist in the second act.

Beyond the engaging clash between brothers, Morbius is slow, distracted and smothered in contrivance.

Michael and Milo’s characterisation feels reversed early on: Milo lashes out at a bully in an impulsive but understandable manner as a boy, but Michael is the one acting illegally and recklessly as an adult. The film establishes the diminishing effect of artificial blood in keeping Michael’s vampirism

stable, but this conflict lacks urgency later in the film. Michael’s romantic connection to Dr Martine Bancroft (Adria Arjona) is superfluous, the film has a pointless subplot with two gormless investigators, and Jared Harris is wasted as Michael and Milo’s rarely-seen father.

A vampire action movie that shows barely any blood is a serious missed opportunity. The action scenes are short, hardto-follow fogs of motion, and the climax is an absolute mess, with a Deus Ex Machina (resolution that comes out of nowhere) involving bats.

The trailers made Morbius look much worse than it really is, but it’s still an anaemic vampire movie made watchable by its villain, and is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

CARTOON

Bakery’s marvelous first performance at 1812 The Bakery@1812 theatre in Ferntree Gully presented ‘Mr Bailey’s Minder’ as its first production for 2022.

A story about Leo Bailey, one of Australia’s greatest artists but now an alcoholic and a wreck of his former self. His daughter Margo finds a live-in minder to look after him.

The stage was set as Leo’s home, a complete wreck of a house with paintings all over the walls and floorboards all loose. A well done set.

Chris Hodson played Leo, a magnificent performance. I have reviewed Hodson many times over the years and I consider his portrayal as Leo is his best performance I have seen.

The balance of the cast kept up to the standard set by Hodson. The minder Therese was played by Danielle Payet.

A good portrayal of a young lady desperate for a job. A moving performance and violent at times plus the language used in the production can be embarrassing though essential to the play. Margo, Leo’s daughter, was given a mailcommunity.com.au

Kemp’s curtain call good performance by Jenny Lutz. A dominating person who did love her father but was stern when visiting.

Caleb Hilbig played Gavin/Karl. This is the first time Hilbig has played outside the Youth Theatre. Hilbig gave a fair performance and has the makings of a good career on stage.

An exhausting lay. Both for the players and the audience.

It covered all aspects expected of theatre and Bakery@1812 put on a wonderful evening of theatre and is one not to be missed.

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MAIL 17

NEWS

Sebly local’s bird book

By Tyler Wright A Selby grandmother is helping to spread the word on local bird life, releasing not one, but two books dedicated to local species.

Dandenong Ranges residents can purchase the educational picture books, photographed and written by Kathie Thomas.

The works titled ‘Words on Birds Book 1 and 2’ respectively were created by Ms Thomas, with the first being released in March 2020 followed by the second early last year. It was her grandchildren’s curiosity for the bird life in surrounding areas that inspired Ms Thomas.

“My grandkids would be saying, ‘which bird’s this one, Nan?’ or ‘what’s this nan?’... So I started just to put together all the information and my photos,” she said.

“I got the first print copy a week before our first lockdown, not knowing what we were heading for or anything like that.

“Once a few other people became aware of the book a lot of people got quite interested in it because they were able to share it with their kids or grandkids in their own backyards and look at the local birdlife.”

Book one features written information and photographs on at least 40 birds, while the second features an additional 35.

Local schools, kindergarten and playgroups have copies of the books and they are available for purchase online, helping to spread further Ms Thomas’ love and knowledge of bird species.

“It was written with children in mind but a lot of adults have found the book quite useful as well,” she said.

“I often get people commenting and asking questions and thanking me for sharing a bit of information.”

While the Selby resident enjoys bringing awareness to the beauty of nature, she also absorbs knowledge from social groups and runs a Facebook page called Birds of Australia.

“I’ve recently started going to BirdLife Melbourne outings as well; so it’s just mixing and mingling with others who have an interest in birds - you tend to learn from each other.”

Ms Thomas’ photographs may be familiar as she often shares them on social media pages, often to the reply of viewers asking whether they will be in future reading material.

Despite her sought after knowledge, she said there’s still birds in her area that remain “elusive” to her, including the Powerful Owl. “One day I’ll get them, and I’ll be able to put them in a children’s book too,” she said.

“Once people start looking at the pictures in the book and reading the information, they’re then becoming more aware of the birds in their own region, even their own backyard.”

Selby grandmother Kathie Thomas with her ‘Words on Birds’ books at the Hills Photographic Society Exhibition in the Emerald Hub. Picture: PAUL BIANCO

Margaret Pearce finally sees the launch of 87th book Book launch of Not Mentioning Any Names

by Margaret Pearce In late March one of The Society of Women Writers’ most prolific and most published writers, Margaret Pearce finally saw the launch of her 87th book, Not Mentioning Any Names.

Though Ginninderra Press published the book in December 2020, the launch was delayed because of the Covid-19 pandemic and other reasons. Those present at the launch included children, grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, Tilly, aged two and Freddie, aged one. The exploits of some of those present were featured in the book.

Leonie McDonald, Margaret’s older daughter, said, “Some of the stories in the book were supposed to be banned from inclusion.”

In Not Mentioning Any Names, an honest book about mothering children, Margaret Pearce states “Life with children is composed of confrontations, truces, compromises and intermittent battles.”

After an early confrontation with one of her children, Margaret Pearce wrote it up as an article under the heading ‘Another Day, Another Battle’ and it was published. Subsequently, she wrote more articles about her intermittent battles or experiences and they were also published in publications such as

ed

Publish

y

Tuesda

Woman’s Day, Woman’s World and The Weekly Times.

In 2020 Margaret Pearce collected the stories together into a book under the title This Motherhood Caper. Stephen Matthews of Ginninderra Press, the publisher she sent it to, suggested the replacement name Not Mentioning Any Names.

Librarian and Manager Ajne Graham, who launched the book at the Ferntree Gully Library, read one of the stories, The Class Raffle, from it. She said this resonated with her and brought back memories of bringing up her own children. In this story, an entrepreneurial young boy set up a class raffle to dispose of eight unwanted ginger and white kittens his mother ordered him to dispose of.

Ajne Graham bought multiple copies of Not Mentioning Any Names for the library.

“We will use the book for reminiscence activities to encourage others to write their stories,” she said.

Margaret Pearce entertained the audience with two other stories in her book. Listening to ‘The Collecting Instinct’ and learning the fate of rare coins found by a collector father’s young son would be enough to put any father off collecting coins. In ‘The Tomato Sauce Trick’, the author relates a grandmother’s ploy to get a suspicious grandson to eat her nutritious stew.

Margaret Pearce’s other stories vary greatly from one about a toddler who called all the dark men on public transport “Daddy”, to a pet story involving a gigantic vet bill for a guinea pig, to a flower child who at first wanted a barefoot beach wedding with the bride in cheesecloth and then wanted a church wedding with the bride in a red wedding dress and veil.

Not Mentioning Any Names, written in a simple colloquial style to suit a magazine, is very easy to read and enjoy. Readers will find themselves recalling their own experiences with children. Smiles are guaranteed, even if sometimes in sick dismay or even horror at some of the kids’ antics.

The illustrations were also a family affair.

Margaret Pearce’s great-nephew Zac Barry drew the impish cupid-like cartoon figures on the cover while daughter Leonie McDonald did the internal sketches. Not Mentioning Any Names is an attractively-presented 124 pp A5 paperback selling for $25 plus P&H. Published by Ginninderra Press, it is available from Margaret Pearce mpearceau@gmail. com or Our books ginninderrapress.com.au

The Audience enjoying listening to local author, Margaret Pearce, reading at the launch of her 87th book at the Ferntree Gully Library.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Local author Margaret Pearce reading from her book Not Mentioning Any Names at her book launch at the Ferntree Gully Library on March 26.

Where to pick up a FREE printed copy of your...

AVONSLEIGH Avonsleigh News & General Store 445 Belgrave Gembrook Road BELGRAVE Belgrave Newsagency 1704 Burwood Highway BELGRAVE Woolworths Supermarket 1629 Burwood Highway BELGRAVE IGA 151 Belgrave-Hallam Road BELGRAVE Chandler & Co Real Estate 1689 Burwood Hwy BELGRAVE First National Real Estate 1 Bayview Road BELGRAVE SOUTH Belgrave South Motors 138 Belgrave-Hallam Rd BORONIA Boronia Mall Newsagent Corner Floriston Road & Chandler Road COCKATOO Ranges First National Shop 2, 24 McBride Street COCKATOO IGA Cockatoo 34 McBride Street EMERALD Kaye Charles RE 12a Kilvington Drive EMERALD Ritchies SUPA IGA 342 Belgrave-Gembrook Road EMERALD Emerald Village Newsagency 4 Kilvington Drive EMERALD Woolworths Supermarket Belgrave Gembrook Road EMERALD Auto Plus More Petrol Station 365 Main Street EMERALD Shell Service Station 336 Main Street EMERALD Barry Plant Real Estate 1/ 321 Main Street EMERALD Bell Real Estate 313 Main Street

FERNTREE GULLY Upper Ferntree Gully Newsagents, 1202 Burwood Highway FERNTREE GULLY Glenfern Road Milk Bar , 83 Glenfern Road FERNTREE GULLY Coles Supermarket Mountain Gate SC Ferntree Gully Road FERNTREE GULLY Woolworths Supermarket Mountain Gate SC Ferntree Gully Road FERNTREE GULLY Mountain Gate Newsagency & Lotto Mountain Gate SC 9b Ferntree Gully Road FERNTREE GULLY Ferntree Gully Authorized Newsagency Shp 2/69 Station Street FERNTREE GULLY Shell Service Station 1140 Burwood Highway FERNY CREEK Ferny Creek & Post Office 195 Mount Dandenong Tourist Road GEMBROOK Gembrook Post Office& Newsagent 72 Main Street GEMBROOK IGA Supermarket 83/85 Main Street KALLISTA Kallista Cellars 85 Monbulk Road KALLISTA Kallista Real Estate 76a Monbulk road KALORAMA Post Office 1209 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road MONBULK Best Repairs & Accessories Monbulk - 26 Main Road MONBULK Food Express 128 Main Road MONBULK Woolworths Supermarket Main Road & Moores Road

Mail

MONBULK Monbulk Newsagency & Officesmart 76 Main Street OLINDA Monbulk Bowling Club, 11 Moores Road OLINDA Olinda Cellars Shop 7/540 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road OLINDA Ranges at Olinda 5 Old Main Road OLINDA IGA Supermarket 1526 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road OLINDA Bell Real Estate 11 Main Road SASSAFRAS Sassafras General Store 391 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road SILVAN Shell Princi Motors, 275 - 277 Monbulk Road TECOMA BP Service Station 1524 Burwood Highway TECOMA Bon Ton General Store 1537 Burwood Highway TECOMA O’Brien Real Estate 1567 Burwood Highway TECOMA McDonald’s Restaurant 1529 Burwood Highway THE PATCH The Patch Store and Post office 16 The Patch Road TREMONT Caltex Service Station 100 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road UPWEY Newsagent 18 Main Street UPWEY IGA Supermarket 62-64 Main Street UPWEY Yarra Ranges Shire Council 40 Main Street

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12542627-SG13-22

By Meryl Brown Tobin

mailcommunity.com.au

ARRESTING AVON! LOCATED on a sunny acre, this spacious family home in gorgeous Avonsleigh is full of great surprises.

The mudbrick construction of the home with exposed beam roof, large windows and a curved internal wall with feature open fireplace in the living room offers a comforting and relaxed vibe where all the tensions of the day will fade away.

The master bedroom is zoned away from the secondary bedrooms and is separated from the living room by a small split level balustrade with outstanding spotted gum floors that continue into the sitting room.

The master features large walk in robe and stunning ensuite that has all the mod cons such as anti fog mirror with make up lights and Bluetooth speakers.

The kitchen with stainless steel appliances and double oven makes the

perfect place to try new recipes that can be served in the adjoining dining room as you cozy up next the wood fire in the cooler months. During the warmer months of the year, meals can be enjoyed outside in the undercover paved area or on the pool deck where you can watch the kids swim as you relax poolside.

The remaining bedrooms serviced by the main bathroom are located off the hallway which culminates in a huge family room with a loft room, the perfect place for a teenagers retreat or guest accommodation.

Add to this a double carport and large garage.

Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 56 Avon Road, AVONSLEIGH Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 5 garage Price: $1,125,000 - 1,250,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Bethany Day 0438 844 968 or Aaron Day 0407 365 994, BELL REAL ESTATE, EMERALD

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

Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

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MAIL 19

PROPERTY NEWS

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT FIRST National Real Estate Ranges was recognised for outstanding achievement at the national network’s General Excellence and Marketing Awards, held at Melbourne’s Grand Hyatt on Saturday, 19 March.

The awards recognise the achievements of First National’s Victorian and Tasmanian agents throughout 2021, with winners now competing for national General Excellence and Marketing Awards, which will be announced at the network’s annual convention in Bangkok, Thailand this May. First National Ranges, principal, Mick

Dolphin, says the results show how tenaciously his staff have managed the ongoing impacts of Covid-19 to continue delivering excellence for the agency’s customers.

‘Nothing beats hard work and a commitment to delivering for customers.

That is exactly what our staff did throughout the past 12 months’ Mick said.

At the awards presentation, First National Ranges received the following awards.

Elite Sales Office Top 10.

·

· Mick Dolphin received the Diamond Award and #2 sales agent in the network · Jan Brewster received the Gold Sales award · Grant Skipsey received the Platinum Sales award

Mick said the First National General Excellence and Marketing Awards are an important event as they encourage First National’s agents to aspire to an ongoing process of performance improvement that benefits customers. ●

Come home to a low rate

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Chat to a home loan specialist today, phone Mick Spruhan on 04 0783 8773 or search Bendigo Bank home loans.

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

Terms and conditions, fees, charges and lending criteria apply. Offer subject to change. Comparison rate displayed is calculated for a loan of $150,000 over 25 years for a Complete Variable Home Loan with LVR between 60.01-80%. WARNING: The comparison rate is true only for the example given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate. Credit provided by Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178 Australian Credit Licence 237879. A1419239 OUT_11660620, 22/02/2022 12543501-NG14-22

20 MAIL

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Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

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25 Short Road Macclesfield

$1,300,000 - $1,420,000

340 Old Emerald Road, Monbulk

$1,100,000 - $1,200,000

Biggest Man Caves Ever - Tradies & Mechanics Paradise!

5 Bedroom Family Home in Private Setting

Situated on nearly 7 acres of bushland and partially cleared land with a dam, this family home is a must to see. With three massive sheds, sized approximately 12x6m, 20x12m with 6m awning and 20x12m, all with concrete floors, one with 3-phase power generator there’s plenty of room for your many projects. Inside has a beautiful open plan kitchen-living space with an open fireplace to keep you cosy on those cold nights. The updated kitchen looks fresh and stylish with white cabinetry and a large window to view the entertaining area and bush landscape. All of the 4 bedrooms have BIRs are close to the main bathroom. The master bedroom has an ensuite plus direct access to the pool.

This architect-designed family home has 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a downstairs 3rd toilet and large secure flat fenced yard for the kids and pets. The interior is beautifully presented, and the master suite has a large ensuite with dual basins, an oversize shower, and face-level storage, and a fully fitted walk-in robe as well as its own private balcony down to the extensive spa deck. The bespoke kitchen has a large walk-in pantry and European appliances including a multi-function pyrolytic (self-cleaning) oven, induction cooktop, and dishwasher. Downstairs is a living room and rumpus room with wood heater. There are 3 reverse cycle split systems for year-round comfort and a double carport, three-bay shed, and energy-efficient heat pump.

Contact: Aaron Day 0407365994

Contact: Aaron Day 0407365994

10 Clear Brook Road, Clematis Family Entertainer in Stunning Location!

This 6 bedroom home with built-in robes and a light-filled master bedroom complimented by an ensuite with spa bath and WIR. Beautifully renovated to high modern standards including all new flooring and tiled areas and smart lighting.

Features include, open living lounge and dining area, high ceilings, modern kitchen and stainless appliances, mains gas ducted heating, evaporative cooling, and a woodfired heater. Additional self-contained studio space with bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette is perfect for working from home or teenage retreat. Outside features include plenty of parking, landscaped gardens, secure fencing for your kids or pets, and plenty of entertaining space.

Contact: Richard Birtchnell 0438 747 357

bellrealestate.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

$1,150,000 - $1,250,000

30 Old Menzies Road Selby

$1,700,000 - $1,800,000

Amazing Property in an Amazing Location!

This beautiful, quiet lifestyle property is set on 9.22 hectares and is fully fenced, 9 fenced paddocks, and a creek running through it. Inside is a modern open-plan living/dining/ kitchen perfect for family living. The kitchen has stainless steel appliances, stone bench tops, and gas stovetop. This 6 bedroom northerly facing home has a spacious master bedroom with a walk-in robe and modern ensuite. The home features hard-wearing bamboo floors, wood-fired hydronic heating to keep you cosy through winter and there are 2 split systems for year-round comfort and convenience. Outside there are 2 large stables with an additional tack room and there is plenty of parking for trucks, boats, floats, and vans.

Contact: Aaron Day 0407 365 994

5968 6222

311-313 Main St, Emerald Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

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MAIL 21

Real Estate you can trust!

We ’ r e h e r e t o h e l p FOR SALE

19 Belgrave-Gembrook Road, BELGRAVE

$700,000 - $770,000

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY ONLY STEPS FROM BELGRAVE

3A 1B 1C

FOR SALE

$895,000 - $970,000

6 Alpine Crescent, KALLISTA

FAMILY RESIDENCE ON COMPELLING SMALL ACREAGE

5A 2B 3C

This tightly held pocket only steps from bustling Belgrave township is the ideal place to put property plans into action. Blank canvas corner gardens and a semi-complete internal renovation leave plenty of scope for new owners to make their mark. This glorious art deco residence is now a golden opportunity for astute investors to bring this brilliant project to fruition.

As you leave the bustling township of Belgrave for the picturesque, parkland surrounds of nearby Kallista, you will arrive at your family’s new forever home with a sense of peace and serenity. Privately situated yet only moments from local schools, shopping, and transport, this spectacular property is a splendid place to call home.

Suzie Brannelly

Sam Adamson

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

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

Brad Conder

Daniel Steen

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

M 0434 979 142 | E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

FOR SALE

3 Temple Road, BELGRAVE SOUTH ONE-OF-A-KIND LUXURY RESIDENCE

$1,650,000-$1,815,000 5A 3B 2C

FOR SALE

2-3 Yeronga Avenue, UPWEY

$1,300,000 - $1,330,000

SUPERB FAMILY HOME WITH PERMIT TO SUBDIVIDE

3A 2B 2C

This showcase residence steps from Belgrave South township reads like the pages of a lifestyle magazine. Poised upon 1,518sqm (approx.) of lush, level, landscaped gardens boasting a glorious inground swimming pool, hillside views, and a double garage with sizeable mezzanine, whether you seek a one-of-a-kind weekender or forever family home, this luxury residence offers an exceptional way of life.

Worth its weight in gold, this wonderful family home provides optimal comfort and outstanding potential. With rare and revered permit to subdivide, this is a long-term investment strategy with promise to pay dividends in years to come. Situated in a quiet nothrough-road only 650m from thriving Upwey township and train station, this large property is in prime position. Sweeping hillside views, splendid gardens, and spectacular outdoor entertaining areas ensure this Hills home immerses itself in the local lifestyle.

Brad Conder

Sam Adamson

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

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

Glenn Chandler

Daniel Steen

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

M 0434 979 142 | E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

9754 6888 1689 Burwood Highway, Belgrave VIC 3160 www.chandlerandco.com.au of fice@chandlerandco.com.au 22 MAIL

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Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

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4 Mary Street, Emerald

1986 Wellington Road, Clematis

9 Berrys Road, Emerald

QUALITY CLINKER BRICK RESIDENCE

COSY AND CONVENIENT ON 1034M2

NEAT AND COMPLETE IN THE HEART OF TOWN!

3 T

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FOR SALE.

FOR SALE.

FOR SALE.

GUIDE $820,000 - $890,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Sue Colic 0421 772 610 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

GUIDE $740,000 - $800,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Riley Nicholas 0488 501 218 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

GUIDE $730,000 - $790,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Justin Barrot 0438 683 781 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

8 Emerald Monbulk Road, Emerald

195 Gembrook Road, Gembrook

5 Stranges Road, Macclesfield

‘TARONG’ COUNTRY LIVING ON 2228m2

FAMILY LIVING ON ½ AN ACRE (APPROX.)

IDEAL LIFESTYLE ON 22 ACRES (APPROX!)

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FOR SALE.

FOR SALE.

FOR SALE.

GUIDE $1,250,000 - $1,350,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Gayle Barrot 0408 195 767 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

GUIDE $850,000 - $910,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Justin Barrot 0438 683 781 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

GUIDE $1,200,000 - $1,300,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Justin Barrot 0438 683 781 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

4 Beatty Parade, Cockatoo

21 Vika Avenue, Monbulk

55 Main Street, Gembrook

PERFECT OPPORTUNITY ON 974M2

RENOVATE, REJUVENATE OR REBUILD - 1901m2

PRIME LOCATION ON 1,051M2!

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FOR SALE.

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GUIDE $700,000 - $770,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Justin Barrot 0438 683 781 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

GUIDE $620,000-$680,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Gayle Barrot 0408 195 767 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

GUIDE $630,000 - $690,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Justin Barrot 0438 683 781 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

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MAIL 23

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 075

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

easy

2 2

5

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

7 3

9 1

4

8 3 2 4 3

9

9

7 6 4 9 1 3 7

Swiss currency (5) Clergyman (9) Breastbone (7) Pottery (7) African country (7) News (7) Made dapper (7,2) Over (4) Enthusiastic supporters of an actor, sport, etc (4) Funeral or burial rites (9) Sprinting (7) Of, or relating to, China (7) Dutch technology company (7) Scoundrels (7) Mental disorder (9) Terminated (5)

19 22 25 26

3 4 5 6 7 8 14 15 16 18 20 21 23

24

DOWN Place protected by natural features (8)

1

8 3

5

2

ACROSS 1 4 9 10 11 12 13 15 17

27 28 29

medium

1

QUICK CROSSWORD

1

No. 075

One who evens the score (7) Binding agreements (9) Appear sporadically (4,3,2) Whole (5) Solved (5) Souvenir (7) Most pleasant (6) Messages sent on holiday (9) Accept reluctantly (9) Levied (8) Yearly payment (7) Island in the North Atlantic (7) Support (4,2) Being from 20down (5) Strong wind blasts (5)

DECODER

No. 075

2 5

3 2 1 8 1 4 6 9 4

5

hard

9 7

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10 11 12 13

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

K N GU A P Y VMC D I QKN 17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

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”.

H

Today’s Aim: 16 words: Good 24 words: Very good

7 1 5 3 2 9 8 4 6

4 5 8 2 6 3 7 9 1

1 2 7 8 9 5 4 3 6

33 words: Excellent

N

I

E

I

8 3 4 9 7 6 5 1 2

2 6 9 1 5 4 3 7 8

5 7 1 3 8 2 6 4 9

9 4 5 6 3 1 8 2 7

6 8 3 7 2 9 1 5 4

7 1 2 5 4 8 9 6 3

4 2 8 7 5 6 1 3 9

3 9 6 8 1 4 7 5 2

5 3 7 2 4 8 9 6 1

6 4 1 9 7 5 2 8 3

2 8 9 1 6 3 4 7 5

9 5 4 6 8 2 3 1 7

1 6 2 4 3 7 5 9 8

8 7 3 5 9 1 6 2 4

6 3 2 5 9 1 8 4 7

5 8 1 6 7 4 9 2 3

7 9 4 8 3 2 5 6 1

1 2 5 3 4 6 7 9 8

8 6 9 1 2 7 3 5 4

4 7 3 9 5 8 6 1 2

3 5 8 4 1 9 2 7 6

2 4 6 7 8 5 1 3 9

9 1 7 2 6 3 4 8 5

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

N

R D

G

4 LETTERS ATOP BASS BUNK CHAN ELSE ERIN FAST MEMO MINS PORT SAFE SILK TEST WAVE

5 LETTERS ADAGE ADDER ADEPT ALLOW AMONG AORTA ARGOT ARIAN ARISE ATONE BERYL BOARD CLARA CODES COMMA DINGO DROOP EDDIE EYING FILMS

No. 075

HOPED ICONS INDIA INTER INTRO LLAMA MAINE MINES MOTIF MPEGS NADIR NERVE OPENS OUGHT REEDY RESET RETRO SAINT SEATS SEETO SLATE

SNAIL SPARE SPREE STATS SWEDE TENSE TERSE VERDE WAFER 6 LETTERS AGREES EGOISM LENDER SEEKER

7 LETTERS APROPOS BANSHEE FORCEPS ORATION PARENTS RANGING 8 LETTERS DEBONAIR DOCTRINE ENDORSED RETURNED

diner, dingier, dinner, dire, dirge, engird, gird, grid, grin, grind, grinned, heir, herd, herding, hinder, HINDERING, hire, hired, hiring, inhering, inner, reign, rein, reining, rend, rending, ride, ridge, riding, rigid, rind, ring, ringed

3 9 6 4 1 7 2 8 5

hard

16

medium

15

easy

14

4 8 5

3 LETTERS ATE CAM DOE DYE ELK ERA GEE HAW HEN ILL ISA KEN KIM LOO MID NAP NEO NIP ODE PER PRO TVS TWO UPS

O T RWH B J X S L E F Z

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

WORDFIT

08-04-22

William Matthews Funerals FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

24 HOUR SERVICE ALL AREAS

9739 6868 45 Cave Hill Rd, Lilydale www.williammatthewsfunerals.com.au 24 MAIL

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CALL GREG 0438 683 141 OR REGAN 0439 208 693.

CALL AFTER HOURS 5968 3140

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Phone Steve Ph: 5968 2508 Mobile: 0417 723 745

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

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MAIL 25

General Notices

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A.G & E. WILLIAMS

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

Alan 5968 5191 Mob 0418 176 159

Council proposes to sell the land separately by public auction or a public expression of interest process, for a price not less than the market valuation held by Council.

Rebedding & pointing Skylight resealing Written guarantee

If Council decides to sell, it would then seek to remove the reserve status from the land under section 24A of the Subdivision Act.

Live local, work local, support local community.

Japara has a part time position (25 hours per week) ($60 - $63K plus superannuation). There is the potential to expand the role over time.

Please be aware that submissions will be made available for members of the public, so be mindful of any personal or identifying information you submit.

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A reminder that CFA and Forest Fire Management Vic fire restrictions (Fire Danger Period and Prohibited Period, respectively) are scheduled to cease.

Classified deadlines for Tuesday, 19th April issue of the Ranges Trader Star Mail as follows:

The Fire Restriction Period will terminate at 0100 hours on the dates shown.

THURSDAY 14th APRIL at 4pm

Municipality Date of Commencement Yarra Ranges 04/04/2022 Council Knox City Council 04/04/2022 Manningham 04/04/2022 Council Maroondah 04/04/2022 Council (areas not within FRV Fire Districts)

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Before we make a decision on whether to sell the various land parcels, we want to know what you think. We invite you to make a written submission about this proposal – including whether you want to talk to your submission at an in-person meeting. Your submission can be as long or as short as you like, and we encourage everyone in the community to have their views heard.

Public Submission, The Chief Executive Officer PO Box 105, Lilydale, Vic, 3140

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Further information about the land parcels is available on our website at shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au 12462305-LB39-20

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

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For appointments call Chris 0438 582 575

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.

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Notice of Intention to Sell Council Land In accordance with section 114(2) of the Local Government Act 2020, Yarra Ranges Council gives notice of its intention to sell four (4) Council owned land parcels located at: • 182-184 Cambridge Road, Kilsyth • 9A Wannan Court, Kilsyth • 16 Ellis Court, Mooroolbark • Part (2600m2) of 9A Tinarra Court, Kilsyth

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

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Jason Heffernan Chief Officer – CFA Chris Hardman Chief Fire Officer – Forest Fire Management Victoria

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NEWS

Monbulk Club champ decided

Sponsorship Coordinator Matt Young, Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor and President Alex Winters at the 2022 season launch.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Club cash splash

By Parker McKenzie The Basin Football Netball Club has received $170,000 dollars from the State Government for a new coaching and timekeeping facility and the installation of two AFL grade barrier nets on their ovals.

Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor announced the funding on Thursday 31 April at the launch of the club’s 2022 season at Batterham Reserve.

“I’m proud to be delivering funding for ripper local clubs like The Basin Bears, and I can’t wait to see this take shape,” he said.

“I know just how hard the volunteers work, from the umpires to the timekeepers and ev-

eryone in between and these upgrades will make their roles that much easier.”

The investment in Batterham Reserve will allow timekeepers and coaches to have better facilities during the game, while the nets behind the goals will ensure players and volunteers aren’t chasing after lost balls onto the road or other sporting facilities in the precinct.

Club President Alex Winters said Mr Taylor worked hard to ensure the club received what they thought they needed.

“The net on the top ground will protect cars from getting hit and the same with the bottom ground, it often takes a long time to collect the

balls when they get booted over the fence into the tennis club,” he said.

“These upgrades will make a huge difference to the club, save volunteer time and make our club safer for locals. Cheers to Jackson Taylor for delivering the funding”.

Mr Taylor said he is keen to continue supporting local clubs and deliver funding where it’s needed for grassroots sport.

The Basin Football Netball Club first fielded a team in 1947 and commenced playing games at Batterham Reserve in 1948 after combining with Colchester-Basin Cricket Club.

Batterham Reserve is located on Miller Road, the B

Late call up for Olinda Ferny Crk women A late notice call-up for the Women’s team saw the girls travel to Thornton for Round 1 after we had been expecting a bye. Many of the girls jumped at the opportunity to kick off their season a week early and we know that Thornton Eildon give us a good game whilst also being hosts. We did have a few girls not available and the magnets needed to be shuffled, but the players coped with the changes and worked the ball consistently into our forward half. We were just not capitalising with some wayward kicking. As the game progressed we started to see more of the style of running football that we have been working on in preseason.

Captain Maddie Collins picked up a tag for the first time, but her toughness is pretty hard to stop and she still managed to score with a magnificent long range kick for goal.

Our fitness shone through in the last quarter and we were able to consistently lock the ball in our forward fifty and generate plenty of scoring shots. Our setup worked well as we took marks in scoring range with Casey Seymour and Kiah Burgess marking and kicking goals and Eleanor Andre kicking a couple of sneaky goals front and centre of the marking contest.

Credit to Thornton for fielding a side with 7 players playing their first game and making a real contest of it, but our fitness and running game which improved as the game went on enabled us to run away pretty comfortably in the end.

It was a massive home round for the juniors with 2 sides playing in the U9 Friday comp and 8 games played at home on Sunday over two ovals. It’s the first time we ever fielded 10 sides and it’s fair to say there was some logistics involved in making it work after an interrupted end to last season.

It was also a very emotional day for many with the passing of club legend Peter Ford during the week. His son Paddy coaches the U17s and is a past president, and his daughter Alanna is the team manager for the U13s mailcommunity.com.au

Olinda Ferny Creek Football Club’s women and junior teams kicked off their season over the weekend.

Picture: SUPPLIED with five of his grandkids representing the club on Sunday.

The U9’s had a great night at Upwey on Friday night and we really excited to kick off their season. It’s great to see the future players of the club start their footy journey with six or seven girls running out there too.

The U10s started Sunday with a bang and had a great time - there are some future footy legends in there!

The U11s look like being a strong side with a convincing win over Yarra Glen.

The U12 girls have fought to build a team and they were fantastic out there with many players playing their first game. They had a ball and whilst the scoreline didn’t go their way against Belgrave, there were massive smiles all around!

The U13 boys came up against some tough opposition in Healesville but the coaches were happy with how they played.

For the record, they are the first team to play a game of footy for points on the new

Olinda Green Oval!

The U14 Girls valiantly fought out their game against a really strong Belgrave side.

Our numbers are down here so it has been a challenge for them so far this year. The girls showed real spirit though and can hold their heads high for the way they contested the game.

The U15 boys had a strong win against Gembrook and coach Scott Tonkin was very impressed with their efforts, particularly some of the younger boys.

The U16 girls had a great win over a challenging Belgrave side in a tight contest and it was great to see their enthusiasm for the game and their pressure at the contest which is what coaches Claire and Gramercy asked for.

The U17 boys were just pipped in the dying minutes of the game against Mt Evelyn after fighting back from being behind early on. It was a great match and we look forward to seeing this rivalry play out over the season.

The women’s final of Monbulk Bowling Club’s club championship was held on a barmy evening with only a slight breeze – perfect for bowling. The crowd watching the final was also enjoying the weather for outdoor dining from the Monbulk Bistro.

Karen Rice, who has won the previous four years, was playing against Jenny Holmes, who had won the event three times, but more than four years ago. Both women play in the top Monbulk pennant side and they are also good mates: this game was always going to be conducted with camaraderie. Only the bowls were doing the competitive talking.

The game, first to 25 shots, progressed slowly. After 8 ends the scores were level at 4 shots all, with only singles scored on each end.

A few multiples put Karen in front for a while, then Jenny was able to string a few ends together and again lock up the scores at 11 all.

After three hours of toiling Jenny won six ends in a row to take a 6 shot lead, only needing 4 more shots to the finish line. But Karen fought back and once again the scores were level at 22 shots all. At that late stage, the high-standard game could have gone either way and the crowd became vocal. The heads were tight for all ends with all the bowls packed around the jack and many shot bowls were altered with touchers. In the end, it was Jenny who was able to grab the final 2 ends with 3 shots and reach the 25 total.

It was a worthy final with an excellent display of controlled draw bowling and Jenny and Karen are still good mates.

The men’s club championship final was held on the same night with Jim Bras who is a previous winner playing Eric Markham who was playing in his first championship final. Jim Bras drew first blood, but then Eric settled and won the next four ends to take a 5 shot lead.

By the 8th end, Eric had increased his lead to 9 shots, 12 to 3. Jim then lifted his game and won the next 4 ends to reduce the margin to 3 shots.

The momentum of the game then swung again with Eric taking control winning 7 of the next 8 ends to take victory by 15 shots, 25 to 10, giving him his first club singles championship.

The final of the President’s Handicap was played between Jenny Holmes and Peter Hiscox. Jenny was giving Peter 10 shots start so in effect had to get to 31 before Peter reached 21.

The game was very even in the first few ends and by the 8th end, Peter had increased his lead to 12 shots, 6 to negative 6. Jenny then started to take control and won 6 of the next 8 ends to cut the lead to 4 shots. Peter then fought back and by the twenty-first end had increased the lead to 5 shots. Jenny then picked up 5 shots on the next 3 ends to level the scores at 14 shots all after 25 ends. Peter then went two shots ahead on the next end, but Jenny levelled the scores on the 27th end and then grabbed two shots on each of the next two ends to lead 20 to 16 only needing 1 more shot for victory. Peter then won the next 2 ends to make the score 20 to 19. On the next end Jenny was holding 3 shots with only 1 bowl to be played from Peter.

He came in with wait and had a double wick to take the shot and displaced Jenny’s bowls to get two shots and take the President’s Handicap trophy 21 shots to 20.

Women’s finalists Winner Jenny Holmes and Runner Up Karen Rice.

Picture: SUPPLIED Tuesday, 5 April, 2022

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MAIL 27

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

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Ken Hunt

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Bill Matthews

Healesville Toyota

Monbulk Jewellers

Monbulk Bowling Club

William Matthews Funerals

Ranges First National

Melbourne Brisbane Sydney Collingwood Richmond Fremantle Essendon Hawthorn Carlton

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Melbourne Geelong Sydney Collingwood Richmond Fremantle Adelaide Hawthorn Gold Coast Suns

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Monbulk Bowling Club

Phone: 5962 4333

Phone: 9756 7652

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Clint Rose

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Yarra Glen Auto

Andrew McMath Real Estate

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Clint Rose Motors

Member for Eastern Victoria Region

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Melbourne Geelong Sydney Collingwood Western Bulldogs GWS Essendon St Kilda Carlton

Melbourne Geelong Sydney Collingwood Western Bulldogs Fremantle Essendon Hawthorn Gold Coast Suns

Melbourne Geelong Sydney Collingwood Western Bulldogs Fremantle Adelaide Hawthorn Carlton ADVERTISEMENT

Harriet Shing MP

Clint Rose Motors

MEMBER FOR EASTERN VICTORIA REGION

Phone: 5962 3144

Phone: 1300 103 199

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

Phone: 9730 1844

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FIXTURES - ROUND 4 Thursday, Apr 7.................................................. Port Adelaide vs Melbourne Friday, Apr 8 ................................................................. Geelong vs Brisbane Saturday, Apr 9 ..................................................Sydney vs North Melbourne Saturday, Apr 9 ................................................... Collingwood vs West Coast Saturday, Apr 9 .............................................Richmond vs Western Bulldogs

Saturday, Apr 9 .................................................................Fremantle vs GWS Sunday, Apr 10 ........................................................... Essendon vs Adelaide Sunday, Apr 10 .............................................................Hawthorn vs St Kilda Sunday, Apr 10 ................................................... Gold Coast Suns vs Carlton

Monbulk Jewellers 12541412-HC12-22

FOR ALL YOUR SERVICING NEEDS Barry Cripps Service Manager Healesville Toyota 112 Maroondah Highway, Healesville, Vic 3777 T 03 5962 4333 W www.healesvilletoyota.com.au

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