Mail - Mt Evelyn Star Mail - 12th April 2022

Mount Evelyn

Tuesday, 12 April, 2022

Mail

Supporting Lucy’s legacy this Good Friday

Federal election called for 21 May

Kilsyth mum helping kids learn their emotions

Program steering youth away from crime

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A Star News Group Publication

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ScoMo on tour

By Mikayla van Loon Prime Minister Scott Morrison was seen taking in the Lilydale scenery on Monday 4 April as he visited local businesses.

Here to talk with employers about the apprenticeship program announced in the preelection budget, Scott Morrison enjoyed a stop at Main Street cafe Hutch & Co and met with GTP Plumbing and Gas owner Garth Peterson.

“A birthday celebration and a groom on his way to get married - it was all happening today in Lilydale, in Melbourne,” a post to Scott Morrison’s Facebook read.

“Great to join our outstanding candidate for Casey Aaron Violi today for a quick coffee at one of his local cafes in his home patch.”

Under the proposed budget, the Australian Apprenticeships Incentive System will offer subsidies to priority occupations, with apprentices and trainees within those occupations receiving up to $5000 in direct payments over the next two years to support them in their training.

The priority occupations have not yet been identified and it has not been made clear what support will be available to those not recognised as priority industries apart from hiring incentives.

Comments flooded the post from the PM’s visit to Lilydale, some in support of his leadership and time spent in the outer east, others drawing attention to his seemingly ‘poor handling’ of the floods in Queensland and New South Wales.

“Meanwhile, flood victims are still cleaning up. Hope you had a nice day,” Neil Leah commented.

“When you are Scott Morrison, going to meet the people of Australia as leader should

Aaron Violi and Scott Morrison met with local business owner Garth Peterson and his employees. be talking to people, not sneaking into States like you snuck into Queensland and did not talk to people, only companies. A leader stands out in front of his men,” Raymond Hughes said.

Mr Violi said it was great to have the Prime Minister visit the electorate and meet with locals about training and apprenticeships.

“We had the opportunity to introduce the Prime Minister to a variety of business-owners in Lilydale and Chirnside Park, and locals are excited to access new training incentives which will benefit up to 4,200 Casey businesses,” Mr Violi said.

Greens candidate for the electorate Jenny

Game responded to Scott Morrison’s visit, regarding it as a political ploy.

“I think he’s let a lot of people down. He’s let women down,” Ms Game said.

“I don’t think there’s anybody that is overly thrilled about him as a person, and we are more and more into personality politics.”

Meanwhile, the Labor Party’s shadow infrastructure minister Catherine King and Labor Casey candidate Bill Brindle were also touring the region last week to make some funding pledges for the Yarra Valley Trail.

“From locals getting out and about to visitors supporting local businesses, this will create jobs and make the Yarra Ranges an even

Picture: SUPPLIED better place to live,” Mr Brindle said.

This came just days before the election was called for 21 May. To read more about the election and funding pledges turn to pages 5 and 7.

Scott Morrison’s visit to Lilydale was short lived, heading off to Diamond Creek to see more apprentices taking up trades later that day.

United Australia Party candidate Anthony Bellve was critical the visit wasn’t announced.

“The people I’ve spoken to didn’t even know he was here until after he had left,” he said.

“I thought he was being protected and kept away from the public.”

Voices of Casey candidate Claire Ferres Miles was contacted for comment.

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PARLIAMENT OF AUSTRALIA

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

6th April 2022 My fellow Australians Liberal and Labor have given Australia one Trillion Dollars of debt ($1,000,000,000,000) (a million million) At the Government’s proposed rate of repayment, it will take Australians 250 years to repay the debt.

A Trillion Dollars of debt will increase home loan rates to 4% in 2 years and to over 6% in 3 years.

At 4%, over 60% of Australians will default on their mortgages and will lose their homes, and at 6% or more over 80% of Australians will lose their homes.

The real estate market will then collapse and foreign buyers will flood our real estate market as they will have the money to buy up our properties.

We have to stop Australians from losing their homes!

A maximum of 3% interest on Home Loans The United Australia Party will introduce a maximum interest rate for all home loans of 3% per annum for the next 5 years to save Australian homeownership.

My treasurer, Clive Palmer, has a wealth of business experience and the ability to save Australia. The Liberal and Labor finance teams just don’t know what to do and they are keeping you in the dark.

Repayment of National Debt Both Liberal and Labor fail to address the Trillion Dollars of National Debt, but not the United Australia Party.

We plan to address it head-on and save your family from its impact.

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In the 1960s, Australia had an export license on the export of Iron Ore. The United Australia Party will introduce a 15% export license on the export of all Australian Iron Ore. The export license receipts will be isolated for the sole purpose of repaying our National Debt which will relieve every Australian from that burden and set up our future.

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Craig Kelly Craig Kelly Leader United Australia Party

Authorised by: Clive Palmer, United Australia Party, 153 Gooding Drive, Merrimac 4226 mailcommunity.com.au

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MAIL 3

NEWS

Family eternally grateful

By Mikayla van Loon The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) in Melbourne has been a pillar in many families’ lives throughout its 150 years and for people like the McAleer’s, it became a second home during their eldest daughter’s cancer diagnosis.

While Lucy’s battle with DIPG was lost, her parents Brian and Nicole were eternally grateful for the support and care provided by the doctors and nurses at RCH. “It definitely was a second home for the five weeks that we were there…and the staff, they almost became like this extended family,” Brian said.

“We were there for a very difficult thing and Lucy was going through a lot and that was hard but it was comfortable, it was supported and it was a nice place to be given the circumstances.”

Practically living at the hospital for five weeks straight while Lucy underwent treatment, Nicole said nothing was ever too much trouble and pretty much everything was made possible.

At eight years old, Lucy had a love for animals, particularly green sea turtles and white tigers, and when it was realised she would be staying in the hospital for a few weeks, the nurses helped decorate her room with all her favourite things.

“The children that are there for extended periods of time have their own personal sign on their door and after a week one of the nurses had a bit of time and so [Lucy] had two big signs with her name on there, one with turtles and one with white tigers,” Nicole said.

“They just knew Lucy. The nurses would wear the colours Lucy liked and on the morning of her passing one of the nurses actually wore one of her favourites, she had Harry Potter scrubs on.”

Brian said Lucy had an infectious energy, one that was bright and caring, one that showed a love of life and a love for being creative in many ways, whether it was writing or drawing.

As parents, seeing how much the staff at RCH embraced Lucy’s entrepreneurial endeavours and her loving nature, Brian and Nicole said they now have a deep connection with the hospital.

“We’re so grateful that we’ve got a hospital of that calibre in Melbourne that can look after children from all over Australia and it doesn’t cost the families a thing,” Brian said.

“I think that’s one of the best gifts that anyone can get and I don’t think you truly understand how much of a blessing that is until you have to go to that hospital.”

With the Good Friday Appeal coming up, Brian said many people may donate but then forget about the impact the RCH has on families like themselves.

“Once you’ve been in there and you spend time there, you realise that those donations are so important because it’s making sure that it remains free, and that it has the best, the best equipment, the best facilities, the best staff in the world, and it attracts the best of

Brian, Nicole and Lucy became regular visitors at the Royal Children’s Hospital during Lucy’s DIPG battle, with it becoming almost like a second home.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Lucy was able to decorate her room to make it feel like her own.

Lucy McAleer was always in bright spirits when visiting the Royal Children’s Hospital.

the best and I think we’re really lucky to have that in Australia,” he said.

Although Lucy’s story didn’t end how they

families they don’t.

To donate this Good Friday, visit www. goodfridayappeal.com.au/donate/

wanted, Brian and Nicole now hope people will donate generously to the Good Friday Appeal, if not for someone they know, for the

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NEWS

IN BRIEF

Election called for Saturday 21 May

By Parker McKenzie Voters throughout the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges will head to the polls on 21 May after a six-week federal election campaign.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison informed Governor-General David Hurley on Sunday 10 April of his intention to call the election at Government House in Canberra.

Former Speaker of the House Tony Smith is retiring from politics after serving as the Member for Casey since November 2001. Mr Smith was widely respected by parliamentary colleagues for his bipartisanship.

Currently, there are five candidates who have declared their intention to nominate for the federal seat, which is located in the southeast of Melbourne.

Local businessman Aaron Violi is the Liberal candidate nominated to replace Mr Smith after winning a crowded pre-selection in November 2021. Mr Violi will be hoping the goodwill towards Mr Smith will serve as a quasiincumbency advantage for him, as he has signalled he will pursue a similar platform to the retiring member if elected.

Engineer and small business owner Bill

Residents in the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley will go to the polls on 21 May. Picture: ON FILE Brindle is making his second attempt at winning the seat of Casey for the Labor party after he lost to Mr Smith at the 2009 Federal election. Mr Brindle told the Star Mail on 14 December one of the key issues he will campaign on is the introduction of a National anti-Corruption Commission.

Former Sustainability Victoria CEO Claire Ferres Miles was chosen by the political engagement group Voices of Casey to represent

them as a community-independent candidate. Ms Ferres Miles flagged action on climate change, integrity in politics and the respectful treatment of all people regardless of culture, gender or sexuality as the three key issues for the election.

Academic and Musician Jenny Game is the Greens candidate for Casey. Also running for the second time after 2019, Ms Game said in an interview with the Star Mail on 8 December the Greens would run on a platform of climate action, creating jobs in renewable energy, affordable housing and integrity in politics.

Former infantryman, Air Force navigator and Australian Federal Police member Anthony Bellve is the United Australia Party candidate.

Mr Bellve and the UAP are running on platform of ending lockdowns, banning domestic “vaccine passports”, abolishing the national cabinet, investing in nuclear technology, and protecting free speech and “Australian values”.

While many candidates have been active in the community promoting their aspirations, with the election campaign officially started residents in the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley should expect to see them even more in the coming weeks.

Feedback extended for bus changes

By Renee Wood The feedback period for the proposed changes on the Yarra Valley Bus Network has been extended until Sunday 24 April and another information session has been announced.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing has confirmed the extension to provide more time for people to contribute to the route changes.

Information sessions have been held at Healesville Coles, and another has been scheduled for the Wednesday 20 April between 4.30pm – 6.30pm.

Information brochures and copies of the feedback survey can be found at the Healesville library to allow locals to submit their feedback in writing.

It comes after commuters raised concerns about the upgrades, saying the proposed cutting of the route 684 will be of a disadvantage to many.

Route 684 would start and finish at Chirnside Park Shopping Centre rather than continuing on to Southern Cross – meaning passengers will need to take a train from Lilydale station to get into the CBD. It’s a service Healesville commuter Naomi Simpson Wynd uses regularly.

“You’re saying improvement, but you’re cutting services,” Ms Simpson Wynd said.

Feedback on the proposed changes for the Yarra Valley Bus Network has been extended.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Ms Simpson Wynd said the service allows her to have her independence and is of benefit to many elderly and disabled residents.

“A lot of people suffering anxiety problems, they have a lot of trouble getting on public transport. This one is a safe, secure transport for them to Melbourne.

“For anyone elderly, anyone with disabilities, it is so much to get this bus to Melbourne.

“It’s clean, it’s comfortable, it’s direct,

which means when I go down to the city for any particular reason, or if I need to get to specialists or hospitals, I have direct access.”

Other proposed changes to the network include removing Route 687 from Healesville to Chum Creek, consolidating Route 685 and 686 which will see some bus stops removed.

For more information on the changes and to provide feedback visit ptv.vic.gov.au/yarravalley Commuters can also call 1800 800 007 to provide feedback.

Driveway construction scam Yarra Ranges Council is advising residents to be aware of a potential scam where residents are offered construction of a cheap driveway using surplus asphalt sealing materials leftover from Council projects.

The individuals offering this service are not council-appointed contractors and they may be looking to take advantage of residents.

If you have been approached in relation to this scam, please contact your local Police Station to make a report. If you have any CCTV footage of the persons, it would be appreciated.

York Road upgrade survey Users and residents of York Road Mount Evelyn are being encouraged to submit feedback in a Department of Transport and Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) survey with works proposed to upgrade the main thoroughfare.

MRPV have identified five categories for comment from the community about how to “improve safety and create more reliable journeys for road users.”

One area raised on social media was the lack of bike lanes for active transport users.

This feedback period allows for comment and request for improved biking conditions.

“Initial planning and development work is underway at York Road to inform potential solutions for improving safety and travel times for motorists, and cyclists in the area,” a MRPV spokesperson said.

“Technical investigations will look at future improvements to York Road, and as part of this work we will consider options that encourage active communities in a safe environment.”

A community feedback session was scheduled for 7 April, with another coming up on 19 April at the IGA in Mount Evelyn.

To submit feedback on York Road, visit https://engage.vic.gov.au/project/york-roadupgrade/participate

Swansea Road fire Lilydale CFA responded to a house fire on Friday 8 April caused by an open fireplace where the fire had spread through the floorboards.

With the help of his crew, as well as the Mount Evelyn and Mooroolbark fire brigades, firefighter Lt Mitch Oake was able to rescue four kittens from the blaze.

While the owners, their dog, bird and the mother cat were able to escape the fire, the kittens had been left in a crate inside.

Firefighters used breathing apparatus to run a 38mm hose line to attack the fire, quickly bringing it under control.

The exhaust fan was also used to clear the smoke from the house and the gas detector was deployed to check for dangerous carbon monoxide levels stemming from the fire.

Ambulance crews checked over the two occupiers of the house however thankfully no injuries were sustained.

Product recalls A number of Kinder Surprise eggs products have been urgently recalled from Woolworths, Coles, Kmart, Big W and other major retailers due to salmonella contamination.

Dates range from August to November last year.

Coles 1L Organic Unsweetened Coconut Milk UHT products with a Best Before date of 31 March 2023 have also been recalled.

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NEWS

Bumpy drive for produce ROADS FOR AGRIBUSINESS

By Callum Ludwig Yarra Ranges’ agribusinesses are struggling to prevent their produce from being damaged by unsealed roads that link to many local farms and orchards.

Yarra Valley Cherries is based on Victoria Road in Seville, a long stretch of dirt road and during the Cherry season from November to December the roads are precarious after a wet springtime, Andrew Fairley, owner of Yarra Valley Cherries said the damage to the unsealed road after rain is inevitable. “We get washaways on the road, because there’s a lot of water comes in from various from all directions and no matter how hard council try to fix the drains, they seem to block up,” he said.

“Because of the intensity of the water, it starts pulling the road away and softens up the road, when you have people driving too fast it then it creates really significant corrugations and big holes when it starts to reform.”

Mr Fairley said the bumpy, uneven roads cause significant damage to high-quality produce from agribusinesses all over the Yarra Ranges.

“When our fruit is packed into pallets and boxes for sale into the domestic and international market, as soon as it gets out onto the dirt road and it starts getting pummelled across the corrugations, the fruit settles in the

The notorious dirt Victoria Rd in Seville causes damage to Yarra Valley Cherries’ produce. 276159 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS box, with the fruit down the bottom getting squashed,” he said.

“It diminishes the quality of the fruit, but also reduces the shelf life because it damages the crunchy skin of a cherry which is a really important part. When it then goes soft, people say that’s not what I signed up for when I’m buying premium quality fruit.”

Yarra Valley Cherries is not alone and is in support of the Yarra Ranges Council’s push for ‘Roads for Agribusiness’ federal funding.

“They [YRC] wanted to really ensure the Federal Government had an understanding of the impact that poor roads had on agricultural producers, particularly where you have a product that is susceptible to damage.” Yarra

Ranges Council estimates the shire is home to a large unmade road network of approximately 700 kilometres.

At current every year the Council spends approximately $4.5 million grading unsealed roads at a cost of $1250 per kilometre for each grade. Another agribusiness also spoke to Star Mail, but wanted to remain anonymous.

A representative said as a tourism-related agribusiness, unsealed roads affect their business model. “We have people consider us a once-only experience because they are disappointed by the access, and we want to encourage repeat tourism so having good access to the farm is a high priority,” they said. “I worry the funding will come up short, we were quot-

Any rain causes significant changes to the road’s conditions. 276159 ed by the council $300,000 for the stretch of road to be fixed.”

However, they remain grateful the funding is being pushed for and feel as though the importance of agribusiness is reflected. “It sounds like they realise that agribusiness is significant, and as we are tourism-related, I’m sure it will put a smile on people’s faces if they are happy with the tourism experience,” they said.

Yarra Ranges Council is asking Casey candidates and political parties to provide $150 million to deliver 150 kilometres of unsealed roads upgrades connected to local producers.

It would act similar as the ‘Roads for Community’ initiative which sees landholders also front some of the bill at a reduced cost.

Labor announces funding pledge for Yarra Valley Trail

By Parker McKenzie The Federal Labor Party has committed to $4.9 million towards fully funding stage 2A of the Yarra Valley Trail if elected in the May federal election.

Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Catherine King announced the election promise at Yarra Glen Railway Station on April 8 alongside Casey candidate Bill Brindle.

“It’s important we’re not asking council or state government to match we’re providing the total $4.9 million for the project because we want this council to be able to get on with the project and just get it done,” Ms King said.

“It obviously is contingent upon us being elected at the next election. But we’re prepared and competitive, but I’m not complacent about that at all.”

The Yarra Valley Trail will connect Lilydale,

Shadow Minister for Infrastructure Catherine King announced the funding commitment at Yarra Glen Railway Station.

Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE Yarra Glen and Healesville while linking up with the Lilydale-Warburton Rail Trail when completed, creating a network of trails for

bike riding and walking.

Stage 2A consists of a track running alongside the railway to connect the Yarra Glen Township and Tarrawarra Road.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said the local community has been through a lot since the 2009 fires.

“Truly it is such a wonderful announcement. We can deliver this project, you can walk, ride your bike from Lilydale through to here and connect right into this township,” he said.

“That will be mean so much for the community and the businesses of this town.”

Yarra Ranges Council expects the development to generate 27 jobs and attract 220,000 visitors a year.

Stage 3 of the project will connect Healesville to Woori Yallock and Seville.

Mr Brindle said the project will make a huge difference to the local community.

“From locals getting out and about to

visitors supporting local businesses, this will create jobs and make the Yarra Ranges an even better place to live,” he said.

“This is a great project for our region and I am so proud to be able to say that an Albanese Labor Government will deliver it.”

Stage 1 of the Yarra Trail connected Lilydale to Yering, while a Yering to Yarra Glen trail is being built in 2022, which will feature reconstructed bridges replacing heritage bridges destroyed in the 2009 Black Saturday fires and a new bridge crossing the Yarra River.

A spokesperson for Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said “Labor can’t say how they’ll pay for their promises and they can’t manage money.”

“Over the last 30 years, Labor has delivered higher unemployment, higher interest rates, and higher electricity prices and not a single balanced budget,” the spokesperson said.

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MAIL 7

NEWS

Mum invents useful tool

By Mikayla van Loon When Tabitha Lakeland’s son came home from school worried about his friend who hadn’t spoken all day she knew the power of sharing emotions whether aloud or written was crucial for young people.

“The reason his best friend didn’t speak all day was because he didn’t know how to articulate these feelings. He didn’t know what was wrong,” she said.

Having an ‘aha’ moment during the night, the Kilsyth mum set on the path of making her Emotionology cards, a tool that young people could use to share their emotions with others.

“If we could make a set of cards that resonated with kids so they could quietly pop one on the corner of their desk or they could go and get one to put on their teacher’s desk or they could pass the teacher a deck of cards and say, ‘Could you please sit with me and go through these so I can work out how I’m feeling’,” Ms Lakeland said.

The process began in 2019 with Ms Lakeland’s son Ash drawing the figures for each emotion and talking through the emotions most felt by his classmates.

“As an adult, we think there’s certain emotions that we just don’t need to verbalise because it seems so obvious to us but for them [it’s not as easy].

“So the kids definitely had a big role in saying ‘you need this one Mum’, and after our first batch, we’ve got a 2.0 version now, we added five new cards that we hadn’t previously had, so they were homesick, grumpy, disappointed, sorry and embarrassed.”

With the return to school after the lockdowns and all the other events happening in the world, Ms Lakeland said the most used cards at the moment have been homesick and stressed.

While more emotions come up often, Ms

Tabitha Lakeland has been listed as a finalist for the DECJUBA Foundation’s Find Your Amazing grant.

Pictures: MIKAYLA VAN LOON Lakeland said she is happy with the deck of emotions currently available to teachers, psychologists and counsellors.

“We’ve sold to teachers all over the world and they come back to us and say the benefit of having them in the classroom is huge and all the cards get a show at some time.”

Now that it has expanded all around the world, to places like Switzerland, Guatemala and Asia, Ms Lakeland has applied for the DECJUBA Foundation’s Find Your Amazing

$20,000 grant in partnership with Lady Startup Academy to hopefully print the Emotionology cards in different languages.

“We’d also love to either link arms with a charity or start a charity, but at the moment we can’t afford to because every cent that we get goes to making more cards, where we are feeding children breakfast and lunches at school.”

Down to the top five finalists, Ms Lakeland said the recognition of just making it that far has given her the confidence to continue be-

Tabitha said her passion for helping children understand their emotions came from being a mother to her son Ash and daughter Lokoda. cause of Emotionology’s value.

“Obviously the financial support would be phenomenal because it means we can really level up and take the business to new heights but more so it really cements and solidifies that what we’re doing is important and it is valued and people can see the value in what we’re doing.”

Voting for finalists is open until Tuesday 12 April at 11.59pm. To vote visit www.findyouramazing.com.au

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NEWS

Next gen of winemakers

By Mikayla van Loon The life and legacy of Wandin’s ‘gentleman winemaker’ Wally Zuk is being carried on in the next generation of viticulture enthusiasts as they take a step towards university studies.

Inaugural Wally Zuk Award recipient at Mount Lilydale Mercy College, Selby Borg-Mcilroy was officially presented with the scholarship on Friday 1 April by Judy Zuk. “My husband had four degrees. The last one was wine science from Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga. He was always very interested in education but I think his dream was to get a vineyard and I went along with it and it turned out to be a wonderful experience for both of us,” Ms Zuk said.

“So I think this is wonderful because it’s going to promote viticulture in the Yarra Valley.”

Part of the criteria for graduating students to receive the $1500 scholarship was they needed to undertake a university degree in agriculture.

Mr Borg-Mcilroy started his degree earlier this year in agriculture sciences at the University of Melbourne that integrates scientific, environmental, economic, and social considerations in all aspects of agriculture.

“Studying agriculture here [at MLMC] I found that I really liked it and enjoyed it and wanted to do something outside. I don’t want to be stuck in an office and agriculture is pretty perfect for that,” he said.

“I was definitely not expecting it, especially to be the first person to receive this is quite an honour.”

With a passion for winemaking, agriculture economics and biodynamics, Mr Borg-Mcilroy said his VCE studies at MLMC really prepared him for the practical skills needed for his university studies.

Agriculture teacher Tim Thompson said for himself, seeing Mr Zuk’s memory continued

Selby Borg-Mcilroy was honoured to be the recipient of the award when he was officially presented with the prize on Friday 1 April.

MLMC agriculture teacher Tim Thompson, award recipient Selby Borg-Mcilroy, Judy Zuk and deputy principal Anita Kay-Taylor were proud to honour the work of Wally Zuk with the inaugural scholarship.

Pictures: SUPPLIED on in this way was quite close to him having started his own career on the family’s vineyard Five Oaks.

“It’s, for me personally, a significant award because I feel a great deal of personal indebtedness to Wally and Judy, and also to the industry around the Yarra Valley for supporting the programs at the school to engage youth with them again,” he said.

“It also means that students who don’t quite fit in with your standard studies have a place to be and become excited about going to school.”

Mr Thompson said agriculture also offers a number of job and career opportunities for students that they may not be aware of and he

was so pleased to see the success of his former student in the field.

Deputy principal of learning and teaching Anita Kay-Taylor said while agriculture and horticulture studies at MLMC have a long history, it has taken a new form with the introduction of the award.

“This award raises and elevates this particular area of our curriculum… and the necessity is not simply because there’s someone out there who’s wanting to sponsor, there’s a future and sustainability in it,” she said.

“So for ag-hor to be leading in that area, curriculum wise and pathway wise, that’s really something where we’re very thankful for

and proud of that Tim’s made that pathway possible for [students].”

Winemaking for Mr Zuk was a dream he turned into a business having first completed a PhD in nuclear physics, as well as working to reduce radioisotopes in medicine for over a decade.

“Wine was his way of embracing his passion and he studied it for fun,” Mr Thompson said.

“It was a fun occupation but as a business it was very real…We both loved it because of the people we met and the fun we had,” Ms Zuk said.

When Mr Zuk died in September last year, Ms Zuk asked that friends and family donate to a charity of their choice rather than send flowers.

The result was the scholarship set up in her husband’s name with funds for at least 10 years.

As a family with international recognition in the wine industry and with connections with many Yarra Valley but also interstate wineries, Ms Zuk said the opportunities for the scholarship recipient don’t just come from the prize money but from the relationships that can be forged.

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Tuesday, 12 April, 2022

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MAIL 9

NEWS

Top social justice issues

By Mikayla van Loon The community of Casey has identified the most pressing social justice issues it believes needs to be addressed in an Australian first report produced by The Salvation Army.

Data compiled in the National Social Justice Stocktake Report (NSJSR) showed the overwhelming percentage of people who have witnessed or experienced mental health concerns in the electorate of Casey.

While 67 per cent of respondents in Casey listed mental health as the top priority, which was 10 per cent higher than the state, social isolation and loneliness was within the top five, something that was not identified for Victoria or the nation.

The Salvation Army’s head of public relations Bruce Harmer said the pandemic had quite a large influence on the social issues people felt needed more support in a postpandemic world.

“Our experience with Covid has been that many people felt socially isolated and disconnected from society, there’s no doubt about that,” he said.

“Along with the increase of mental health issues, the stigma around speaking about mental health seemed to evaporate to a degree.

“People were more willing to share how they were feeling, something that was translated in the number of people that see it as the highest issue in Casey.”

The Casey electorate identified social isolation as a key priority in The Salvation Army’s Social Justice Stocktake report.

Picture: UNSPLASH Housing affordability (55.3 per cent), followed by family violence and drug and alcohol abuse (both 37.9 percent) rounded out the top five concerns, something Mr Harmer said all fit within the space of mental health stressors.

“Covid brought to the attention of the vast majority of people that episodes of mental health can occur to anyone, at any time, whether it be in relation to losing a job, social isolation or maybe housing affordability and

we see that rating very highly also in the electorate of Casey.”

Mr Harmer said these social issues were all systemic elements within society before the pandemic but the report reveals the exacerbation and also the willingness to talk about these worries because of the pandemic.

“Our society seems to be opening up and having a newfound willingness to discuss these things openly.

“When the Salvation Army came into each of the electorates right across the country and asked the constituents what are the top social issues from your perspective, it gave them an opportunity to sit and reflect.

“They are certainly social issues that need addressing, but…we’re on the right road to addressing them if we’re prepared to talk about them.”

By releasing the report, Mr Harmer said The Salvation Army hopes it draws attention to the key issues facing residents within electorates like Casey as it comes closer to a federal election.

“We want politicians, we want those who are running for public office, along with education, along with transport, along with health, we want them to think a little deeper about the social justice issues that are prevalent in our community and we want them to begin the conversation.”

Mr Harmer said the report and research will also instruct The Salvation Army in how best to engage and provide support in the Casey community moving forward.

“For the Salvation Army, it underlines and confirms for us that these social issues are worth pursuing because other people in the community also see them as issues that need to be addressed.”

To view the report by nation, state or electorate go to www.salvationarmy.org.au/socialjusticestocktake

First Peoples truth-telling process officially begins

By Mikayla van Loon

The Yoorrook Justice Commission comprises Professor Eleanor Bourke, Sue-Anne Hunter, Senior Elder Dr Wayne Atkinson, Kevin Bell AM QC and Distinguished Professor Maggie Walter who will travel around Victoria listening to Elders.

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month. Our Elders will help us understand which areas are most important for community so that this process has the greatest chance of true healing.”

Both historical and ongoing injustices will be reflected on including cultural violations and massacres, policing and criminal justice, child protection, family and welfare matters, health and healthcare.

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for the work of Yoorrook, Ms Hunter said she hopes the yarns are “beneficial in grounding our inquiry in the cultural authority of our Elders.”

“The Elders’ Yarns are incredibly significant in the truth and justice process as our Elders are an essential guiding force for the work we’re undertaking,” she said.

“The Yarns will help us understand exactly where our focus should be throughout the process and into formal hearings next

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The Yoorrook Justice Commission has officially launched its truth-telling process in Victoria with local Elders’ yarns scheduled to hear the concerns of First Nations People.

Commissioner and deputy chair SueAnne Hunter, a Wurundjeri and Ngurai illum Wurrung woman, said the launch of the commission was a historic moment for Victoria as the first truth-telling inquiry ever conducted.

“It signified what First Peoples in Victoria have been working towards for a very long time, which is achieving truth and justice,” she said.

“It signified the first steps and formal start towards learning about the injustices experienced by the First Peoples since colonisation.

The truths and stories told by First Peoples will be difficult to retell and listen to, but it’s an important step towards healing.”

With ancestors in William Barak, who was closely associated with the Aboriginal settlement Coranderrk located near Healesville in 1863, and his sister Annie Borate, Ms Hunter said she imagines they would be proud and pleased to see the progress happening in Victoria.

As the Yoorrook commissioners travel Victoria to hear from Elders on their priorities

Nations Elders to share their experiences, stories and pain at a public hearing in an attempt to heal.

As someone who has worked in Aboriginal child and family welfare for over 20 years, Ms Hunter said going into the yarns and formal hearings her background gives her a unique understanding of her people and the challenges they face everyday.

“If we can break those barriers to speaking out and do things differently, we hope they too will come forward to tell their stories in a supported and safe way.”

Elders’ Yarns can be conducted in three ways: by attending a group Elders’ Yarn, a one-on-one session as scheduled upon request or a cultural or historical site visit also to be scheduled on request.

These yarns and public hearings will lead to an interim report that is due in June. The Yoorrook will invite First Peoples to tell their truth in the second half of 2022, where the broader Victorian community will also be invited.

Elders’ Yarn locations will be published on the Yoorrook Justice Commission Facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/YoorrookJusticeCommission To inquire about the Elders’ Yarns contact Joey Saunders 0459 871 952 or Lisa Thorpe 0467 513 823.

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

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NEWS

ADVERTORIAL

The Lilydale Youth Hub

New centre for Vicroads The new VicRoads service centre in Ringwood has opened to the eastern suburbs with the facilities now offering licence testing and inspections.

As the major hub now for the Yarra Ranges Shire since the closure of the Mooroolbark testing site, the purpose built centre was said to have “more testing capacity than any existing centre in Melbourne’s east” by a Department of Transport spokesperson in December last year.

The State government expects the Heatherdale Road centre will be able to supply 1,000 appointments per week, including 600 license tests.

“The opening of the new VicRoads Testing and Inspection Centre in Ringwood will make it easier, faster and more accessible for people to complete their everyday paperwork,” Roads and Road Safety minister Ben Carroll said.

“Whether it’s vehicle testing, license testing or drive tests – we’re making it more convenient for locals to access the services they need right in the heart of Ringwood, with the modern facilities they deserve.”

Other services include both computerbased and drive tests, as well as vehicle inspection and long vehicle testing for cars towing trailers or caravans, with more than 50 car spaces for customers, as well as a canopy dedicated to vehicle testing.

For residents based in the Yarra Valley, the closure means learner drivers will be required to go to either Ringwood or Pakenham to undertake driving lessons and sit their driving test.

The Mooroolbark VicRoads closure was the fourth for the Yarra Ranges Shire in the last five years, after the Monbulk, Healesville and Yarra Junction centres were shut down in 2016 but the government hopes being located close to public transport, it will ideal for customers.

Testing and inspection services are available by appointment only and can be booked now through the VicRoads website.

A new Ringwood Customer Hub is set to open nearby in mid-2022. The temporary Ringwood Licence Testing Centre along Warrandyte Road will remain open for license testing until mid-June.

The Lilydale Youth Hub is a mental health and wellbeing service for young people aged 12-25 living, working, or studying in the Yarra Ranges.

Since launching in October last year, we’ve supported young people in 39 of the Yarra Ranges 63 postcodes, from Lilydale to Belgrave, Healesville to Warburton and every town in between.

We do this through outreach, where a member of our support team can come and meet young people where they feel most comfortable – home, school, even a local café to chat through things.

The last two years have been particularly hard as young people attempt to adjust to school and work in a Covid-world. It has raised many new issues for young people in the Yarra Ranges and often made existing issues worse.

But we have seen firsthand how resilient and strong the young people in our community can be when given the support they need to thrive.

That’s why we’re here. Our support team helps young people to work out what they need to be thriving, safe, and valued.

If other services are needed, then a case manager will help with referrals, making appointments, and supporting clients to attend those appointments – because sometimes getting help isn’t easy.

Services that we regularly connect young people to include counselling and clinical mental health support; physical health such as GP appointments, dental, and sexual health; education and employment services; legal assistance; Aboriginal community services; and homelessness or out of home care support.

Sometimes young people and their families are unsure of what they need or where to find it.

Our support team are experts at navigating the mental health and social services system – so no one has to take the journey alone.

Mental health support isn’t always about counselling and psychologists. This year, we’ve run Creative Art Therapy, Animal Therapy, Yoga, Music Sessions and Workout sessions on offer, where young people can connect and enjoy themselves. We’re always planning more fun things too.

Our Hub space is open 12-5pm Monday to Friday, for young people who need a safe, welcoming space. Come in and relax, grab snacks, charge a phone, meet our support team – or just have some quiet space.

If you, or a young person you know, find that you need more specific mental health and wellbeing support, then we’re here to help.

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Roads minister Ben Carroll, Maroondah Council mayor Cr Mike Symon and workers at the new Ringwood VicRoads Centre opened the facilities on Monday 4 April.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Yarra Ranges Council gets $10 million for disasters

By Parker McKenzie Yarra Ranges Council has received $10 million in funding from the Federal Government’s Preparing Australia Program, the most out of any municipality in the country.

The Preparing Australia Program funds projects to mitigate or reduce disaster risk, impact and consequences. The funding will be delivered over a six-year period.

Mayor of Yarra Ranges Jim Child said the funding will increase disaster preparedness, risk management, recovery and future resilience for communities in the shire.

“We’re extremely thankful that the Federal Government has recognised the importance of this issue, particularly as we approach the one-year anniversary of the catastrophic storms that hit the Dandenong Ranges,” Mr Child said.

“Responding in an emergency is as much about preparation and planning as it is about the actual response and clean-up itself, so this funding will go a long way to help us plan and protect our communities for any future emergencies that may arise.”

The funding will be used towards the Resilient Yarra Ranges Project, which aims to increase resilience planning, complete tree management and clean-up from storm events, access the feasibility for a microgrid across the essential buildings in Monbulk, upgrade council community buildings to serve as emergency relief centers, provide suitable facilities for those unable to use accessible toilets at Kilsyth Sports Centre, commission a bushfire risk assessment for areas in the Dandenong Ranges and promailcommunity.com.au

Yarra Ranges Council has received $10 million from the Preparing Australia Program.

Picture: ON FILE vide better-coordinated support and material air resources across the Yarra Ranges.

Mr Child thanked the retiring member for Casey Tony Smith, who he said has been a wonderful local representative for the Yarra Ranges.

“Tony has been a great advocate for our community for a long period of time and has helped us advocate for better funding and services in our municipality.

“This is a perfect example of the great working relationships we have with our counterparts across different levels of Government.”

Mr Child also said there is still significant work towards recovery from the June 2021 storm weather event.

For more information on the funding and other successful application can be found at www.recovery.gov.au/preparingaustralian-communities-program-local Tuesday, 12 April, 2022

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MAIL 11

NEWS

New Indian trade deal A new trade deal between the Australian and Indian Governments could come of a benefit for Yarra Valley wineries who are looking to export their blends.

When the Australia–India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI ECTA) enters into force, preferential tariff treatment will be afforded to premium Australian wine imported to India, making Australia the first major wine producing country to negotiate such arrangements.

Wine Australia has welcomed the announcement, seeing the market a viable option for new winemakers to export as Indian consumers discover and learn more about Australian wine.

“There is potential for growth in the sale and consumption of Australian wine in India with Australia already having the greatest share of the imported wine market,” Wine Australia General Manager Corporate Affairs and Regulation Rachel Triggs said.

“In particular, the AI ECTA will make India a more viable proposition for small to medium winemakers who have not previously contemplated entering into that market.

Through the AI ECTA, India has also agreed to extend any preferential arrangements for wine afforded to other trading partners in future to Australian wine.

“The strengthening of the relationship between India and Australia through the AI ECTA creates an excellent platform upon which we can pursue a meaningful dialogue with India about regulatory and technical matters relating to the trade in wine.

In the 12 months to the end of December 2021, Australian wine exports to India increased by 81 per cent in value to $12 million – a record value of Australian wine exports to India. Volume also increased by 71 per cent to 2.5 million litres, and 74 per cent of this volume of wine was red wine.

A new agreement between Australia and India will see more wine exports into India more viable for Yarra Valley winemakers.

The common customs tariff on wine imported to India is 150 per cent, making it a challenging market for imported wine.

In accordance with the AI ECTA, tariffs on Australian wine with a cost, insurance and freight (CIF) value of over US$5 per 750ml bottle will decrease to 100 per cent upon entry into force, with a further phased reduction of 5 per cent per year for 10 years down to 50 per cent. Tariffs on Australian wine with a CIF value of over US$15 per 750ml bottle will decrease to 75 per cent upon entry into force,

with a further phased reduction of 5 per cent per year for 10 years down to 25 per cent.

Wine in India – fast facts According to IWSR, Australian wine held a 42 per cent value share of the imported wine category in India in 2020, well ahead of Italy (14 per cent), France (12 per cent) and Chile (11 per cent).

IWSR reports that 72 per cent of the volume of wine consumed in India is produced domestically.

Picture: ON FILE

Euromonitor International reports that a rising middle class, increasing urbanisation, an inclination towards imported wine, and a shift in consumer preferences from hard spirits towards wine are expected to drive wine consumption in the forecast period, which is predicted to reach 55.5 million litres by 2025, up from 29.2 million litres in 2020.

Euromonitor International reports that the most popular red wines in India include Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, while for white wine Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc are popular.

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COMMUNITY POWER HUB CAMPAIGN

Building energy resilience

By Karen Casey Imagine retaining power in a storm or cutting your electricity bill in half. Imagine a home that is not only comfortable but cheaper to run with minimal carbon footprint.

Yarra Valley Community Power Hub (YVCPHub) can help you achieve this, one step at a time.

Supported by Sustainability Victoria and funded by the Victorian Government, YVCPHub is your first point of call for understanding the services, discounts, rebates and free upgrades available in your area. Six community energy groups in five LGA’s spanning the Greater Yarra Valley and Ranges are under its umbrella.

Executive Officer Jeff Barlow said the groups operating under YV-CPHub ensured much of the hard work was done.

“The local community energy groups do all the hard work for households by sourcing good quality products at great prices with reputable installers,” Mr. Barlow said. “Energy efficient products can pay for themselves over a few years just from the savings created from using less energy. Some banks even have Green Loans at low interest rates to assist with the upfront costs.”

Many householders are unaware they can have their home assessed for energy efficiency.

They can then upgrade the basics for free and have a free energy monitor installed to keep track of consumption.

Government rebates are also available on bigger items like hot water pumps, solar panels and batteries for those who qualify. And, thanks to the power of community bulk-buying, reverse cycle air conditioning, electric vehicles, solar panels and batteries and more are

available at fair prices.

Find out more about home energy efficiency and YV-CPHub’s new reverse cycle air con-

ditioning offer at a Zoom information session on Wednesday, April 27, 7.30pm-9pm. More in-depth courses are available at community

houses in Eltham, Emerald and Pakenham.

Visit www.yvcommunitypowerhub.org.au to find out more.

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Tuesday, 12 April, 2022

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MAIL 13

NEWS A local program run by the police is helping youth offenders navigate a path to a life out of crime.

Youth thrown a lifeline

By Renee Wood A program that’s run at Mount Evelyn YMCA Camp is throwing youth offenders a lifeline to turn their lives around after learning ‘the ropes’ with local police officers.

The ‘Ropes Program’ is run by Leading Senior Constable Kevin Bridle who recently took over from its founder Senior Contsable Mick O’Meara in 2019.

Ld Snr Const. Bridle works in the Proactive Policing Unit at Knox Police Station and jumped at the opportunity to lead the program to help local kids bounce back from troubled times.

“I’ve always had an interest in working with the youth because some people don’t have a role model in their life, so if they can find one, it’s a good thing,” Ld. Snr Const. Bridle said.

It’s been running for 22 years and started after Snr Const. O’Meara was at court with a youth offender and noticed how unfair it was that children didn’t have a ‘diversion’ option to squash a criminal record.

Snr Const. O’Meara developed the initiative which now allows young people the opportunity to have their conviction wiped and move on with their lives, if they successfully complete the Ropes Program.

Ld. Snr Const. Bridle said the one day program includes the physical rope drill elements while developing problem solving and leadership skills.

Ld. Snr Const. Bridle also provides examples of how criminal convictions can affect your future life.

“Andrew Krakouer, played for Collingwood - as a 17 year old he got into trouble he pinched a car, got into an assault, he did time. When he played football, the club wanted to take all their players overseas for training courses in the States - he couldn’t go because of a criminal conviction.

“Those are the sorts of things we tell the kids - a silly thing you do can come back later in life, that spur of the moment decision can affect you. So Ropes today is about learning to stop and think about it, is it really worth the risk?”

Generally, it’s held once a month with up to twelve participants who have been deemed suitable by the Magistrate after meeting specific requirements, which includes no extensive criminal history and the offence is minor.

The youth has to admit the guilt and the defence and prosecution have to both agree to it before putting a submission to the Magistrate.

The course hasn’t been running during lockdowns and restrictions but now it has resumed this year.

Ld. Snr Const. Bridle is grateful for its return and said it’s a vital service steering youth back in the right direction.

“We expect children to push boundaries and have a bit of fun - that’s part of growing up, and making mistakes is a great way to learn.

“But this is your chance, this is where it

Ld. Snr Const. Kevin Bridle has been leading the Ropes Program since 2019. 276440

Youth offenders are getting the opportunity to start a new chapter in their lives after being part of the Ropes Program.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

It’s a program that’s been running for 22 years.

their fears… pushing the young people to participate in something outside their comfort zone.”

Weaved through the physical activities is a main diversion talk.

“One of the things we’ll talk about in the talk is to learn how to say no - so if you’re in a peer group pressure, be the one that has the confidence to say no I’m not going to do that or no I don’t want to be involved.

“You might be pressured to get into a stolen car or something - if one person says no that’s dumb, you’ll be surprised how many other people will say yeah that is a dumb idea.”

The participant will either pass or fail after completing the day, with the majority passing, while others may fail for various reasons including showing poor behaviour.

It’s a one chance opportunity that’s seeing

less youth follow a path of criminal activity, while providing an opportunity to move forward into society.

One of the participants under Snr Const.

O’Meara was a young offender who contacted him concerned his passed offence would jeopardise his goal of getting into the army.

Mick assured him that due to the ropes program he would be cleared, and sure enough the man is now in the army in a high ranking position - an example of just how ropes can start a better chapter for young people.

Ld. Snr Const. Bridle said 15 per cent of the participants reoffend.

“Jails are full of people that broke laws within the community, and as a community we all have to live together and get along so we need to take consideration with the things that we do.”

stops. You do the ropes course, learn by it and move on.”

Everything on the schedule has strong meanings behind them.

Group problem solving activities are held to allow the participants to build some confidence among their peers and promote leadership skills, while the low ropes course, will see groups working together as one person climbs and the other two support.

“I relate that back to in life. Sometimes when you’re at a party or something like that, and things are getting out of hand, your friends are there to support you.”

The high ropes course is conducted later in the day with the leap of faith and giant swing also having strong connections to everyday life.

“The idea of these type of things is to face

276440

Exciting announcement and looming game deadline Here’s an opportunity to see your pictures in the paper - Have you heard about the board game about the treasures of Yarra Ranges Shire?

It is the brainchild of artist and writer, Jenni Ivins, who is engaging communities in conversations on Facebook about the things we value and what to see and do here.

The game will be published in May in all Star Mail papers, covering the Shire of Yarra Ranges.

The game board will be based on a map of the shire and GO-TO cards will direct players from town to town in the game.

“Exciting news!” Ms Ivins said.

“I have selected an amazing photo to go on the GO-TO side of all the cards. The image was taken by Tracy de, whose photography has been widely appreciated by many people in local Facebook groups. It shows a kangaroo hopping before a setting sun.”

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The front of the cards will have photos taken by people who have a connection to the shire in some way, like working, living, studying or playing here.

The deadline for submitting photos for the front of the cards is looming. Get your photos in before Easter! You can submit them to Jenni@MindDrawing.net but the preferred method is to post them in the project Facebook group Connecting Communities - Yarra Ranges Shire.

That is where all the up-to-date information will be, you can join the conversations to learn more about the shire and share your own stories, and there may be a deadline extension for members of the group.

What do you like to do or see in Yarra Ranges Shire? What secrets or treasures do you know about?

The design of the GO TO cards for the board game.

Picture: SUPPLIED mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS In a lifetime that has spanned 90 years, GEORGE MCDONALD has helped build the community of Mooroolbark in his 55 years living in the suburb. Recently celebrating his birthday, MR MCDONALD has reflected on his greatest achievements and what it took to get to a point of creating a home for his family.

George’s local accolades

By Mikayla van Loon While living in Mooroolbark was starting to feel more like home for George McDonald and his wife Betty, homesickness had settled in.

Having brought his wife’s sister Vera over from Scotland to help, he soon realised that wasn’t enough.

“Of course I discovered when I was three months on the road, they had nothing to do at nighttime and they didn’t know anybody,” he said.

“So I went to the local church and said to the minister ‘you’ve got a church hall here in St Margaret’s Church, can I make a badminton court?’”

Outgrowing the number of members within three months, having the gumption to ask for what was needed, Mr McDonald approached the State government when Pembroke College was proposed to see if the local clubs could use the stadium for badminton.

Eventually outgrowing that within a year, in 1968 Mr McDonald set his mind to building a stadium but the funds was an issue.

By setting up a cooperative where members essentially purchased a share in the badminton courts for $10 each, the State government would guarantee a $90 pay back scheme to raise the funds.

Then known as Mr Pink’s Farm in Kilsyth which housed a great herd of cattle, the Lilydale Council offered Mr McDonald a portion of the land to build three courts.

Six months later Mr McDonald was back on the path of building more courts having outgrown the three. In 1976 another three courts

George McDonald was instrumental in building in the badminton stadium in Kilsyth after realising British, Scottish and Welsh immigrants needed something to do in the late 1960s. 275034 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS were built and by 1982 the current 12 court stadium was completed - he regards it as his greatest achievement.

In the 1980s the Mountain District Badmin-

ton Association became the largest in Australia.

“I couldn’t believe it. Mooroolbark at that time was nearly full of English and Irish and

Scottish people more or less in the early days [who needed something to do].

“So that was how we evolved in getting badminton and that was all because my wife was home sick and needed something to do.

“But that was the problem, there was nobody doing anything.”

Having helped his wife create friendships, Mr McDonald looked at doing something for his children, George and Audrey, by establishing the first Mooroolbark billy cart race in 1970.

“The billy carts were about giving them something to do and because we lived on the hill, they played with the billy cart themselves.”

Building relationships, finding friends and making a home was the catalyst for all the work Mr McDonald did in the Mooroolbark and Kilsyth communities.

This led to the establishment of the 360 Club and the Mooroolbark Senior Citizens Centre.

Everything Mr McDonald set out to do for Mooroolbark was backed by his long time friends Bev and Lindsay Trollope.

“We have stayed as friends from February 1968 until today. Our lives have intertwined in many ways over the 54 years, so much so we all had lunch on my 90th birthday on 27 March.”

Mr McDonald is still a pillar in the Mooroolbark community being the secretary of the Celebrate Mooroolbark committee.

When asked what his secret to making it to 90 was, Mr McDonald was as humble as ever in saying “at my party I said, ‘I have no idea how I got here’.”

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Back to school!

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A Star News Group Publication

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

See page 7 for more back to school excitment.

Back to school!

Mail

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

By Jed Lanyon

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

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

$8400 to help make the lives of children better.

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

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

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

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

Continued page 2 12477022-SN06-21

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

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A worthy brand

Scan this QR code to subscribe The billy cart race preparations began in 1969 with the participants taking to the track in 1970, including Mr McDonald’s two children George and Audrey. mailcommunity.com.au

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MAIL 15

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

From the universe within

By Tyler Wright The Yarra Valley Gallery & Arts Hub (YAVA) launched a new exhibition, showcasing the work of locals Jessica Harris and Amanda Ruck Their works have been combined to form ‘The Universe Within’ an exhibit inviting viewers to connect to their own internal feelings and emotions through art.

Jessica’s tiny collages are mixed-media works and are part of a mural, representing the large emotions we tend to compress inside ourselves yet form such a significant part of our lives.

Whereas Amanda’s acrylic works are on large canvases and are paired with a ‘familiar’ an object that inspired the painting.

“It was matching up their philosophies in a way that would compliment each other,” Gallery Manager and curator Dakini Maddock said.

“They might be very different work, but it makes it a more dynamic and interesting exhibition.”

Amanda is a landscape painter, cloud painter on canvas and wood panels.

“I work to very beautiful, big, ignited blue skies, but I often tend to work at [sunset],” Amanda said.

“Nature continuously inspires me.”

And you can see that in the clouds and trees of her paintings, often with what she calls a sense of “hope” in the horizon created by a particular colour like naples yellow.

“I just wanted to put together a show that

Amanda Ruck with her piece, ‘Romance’.

Attendees at the launch of ‘The Universe Within’ at the Yarra Valley Gallery & Arts Hub last night.

Pictures: TYLER WRIGHT

everyone could engage with in terms of their emotions.

“Sometimes the inspiration is really obvious, like a color or the light. Sometimes it’s a little less obvious and kind of travels a little bit deeper.”

Jessica Harris’ works are reactions to events happening in her life and her feelings, as she started creating tiny art during 2021’s lockdown.

“I wanted to do a lot, so I thought bringing them down small would be more practical and more of an introspective look,” Jessica said.

The artist and educator will be holding a ‘Repetitive Lines and Patterns’ workshop on Saturday 16 and Saturday 23 April in the Mar-

garet Lawrence studio at YAVA from 10am to noon.

“It’ll be a mindfulness type session, using the lines to just relax and take some time out.”

Dakini will also be holding guided meditations with breathing exercises one day a week throughout the exhibition, choosing a different work from both Jessica and Amanda’s collection each time for participants to focus on.

“It’s about grounding and coming back to the present moment and having a bit of a rest.

It’s self care for people, but in a beautiful environment with beautiful artworks.”

Engaging with people through workshops and guided meditation is something Dakini

is attempting to implement in the future after obtaining feedback from a group of young mentees at YAVA. “I’ve seen how that’s worked in other galleries, especially in Europe” she said. “[We are] trying to meet people on those different levels.”

A gold coin donation box is at the gallery upon entry, and the exhibit will be running from now until 1 May with doors open between 10am to 4pm Wednesday to Sunday.

Guided meditations will run on Wednesday 13, 20 and 27 April from 6:00pm to 7:00pm.

For more information, head to https:// www.yava.org.au/theuniversewithin

Julian Assange’s dad supports local ITHAKA screening

By Parker McKenzie As the screening of the documentary ITHAKA at Cameo Cinema in Belgrave approaches, John Shipton — the father of Julian Assange — spoke to the Star Mail about his son’s extradition case and health, the making of the documentary and Mr Assange’s brief time spent at Monbulk High School.

The documentary, directed by Ben Lawrence, was filmed over two years in Europe and the United States, as Mr Assange continues to fight to prevent being extradited to the United States for espionage. It will screen at Cameo Cinema on 17 April, followed by a question and answer session with Mr Shipton.

77-year-old Mr Shipton said he returned from the United Kingdom in late March after visiting Belmarsh Prison to witness Mr Assange’s wedding.

“Julian isn’t doing the best, but he’s very happy to put his life and his family’s life in good order by getting married,” he said.

“He’s entering his 14th year of arbitrary detention on the day after Palm Sunday.”

Through his organisation Wikileaks, Mr

John Shipton will be at a screening of the documentary ITHAKA at Cameo Cinema in Belgrave on 17 April.

Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE Assange published a series of leaks provided by a United States intelligence analyst in 2010, revealing the United States 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.

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

Mr Shipton said in the past decade, support for Mr Assange has grown among the public and the Australian Government.

“In 2013 there was just Andrew Wilkie and Peter Whish-Wilson supporting, now there are 29 other parliamentarians in the Assange group in federal parliament, giving you an indication of the constant growth,” he said.

“As well the leader of the opposition Anthony Albanese said in a caucus that enough is enough and the Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce when he was in Washington said Assange must be freed.”

Mr Shipton said if Mr Assange’s appeals are rejected, the average time for appeals and sentencing will mean he will have spent 27 years in arbitrary detention or detained before he can serve out a sentence in Australia.

“It looks like two or three more years of

court cases in the United Kingdom. Julian’s defence has applied for another court case, an appeal, a decision on that is coming,” he said.

“If the decisions in the negative for Julian, he will go to the European Court of Human Rights. That will be fought over a period of two years.”

Mr Assange “went to a lot of schools” throughout his childhood and teenage years, and spent two terms at Monbulk High School.

Mr Shipton said many people in the hills are both supportive and curious about Mr Assange because he spent time in the Dandenong Ranges as a teenager.

“People are concerned for Julian’s wellbeing because he’s an Australian and did some really earth-shattering things, so the public could understand what governments do, what the United States has done and what war crimes are committed,” he said.

“Thank you for the support people give and for the long memory, treasuring the time Julian spent here in the hills.”

Cameo Cinema is located at 1628 Burwood Highway, Belgrave.

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Tuesday, 12 April, 2022

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OPINION

Ways forward after Covid ‘Long Covid’ or its first variant ‘Omicron’, or its latest variant, ‘BA.2’, have added to our struggles with the entrails of all we has gone through in the last two years.

Long Covid seems to be the result of the struggle itself, given that the second anniversary of Covid’s landing was on the 24th of Feb this year.

Sadly the deaths and the daily stats along the way have left the average person in a state of confusion and uncertainty.

Unless we have been touched personally, it is hard to comprehend the terrible losses and grief thousands have gone through, and for many, are still experiencing it.

On top of that, the mass indiscriminant slaughter and displacement of millions in The Ukraine, is to us, inconceivable.

That war, and the floods in our north, drive a deeper despondency So what are these life traumas doing to us?

I observe in our communities a lack of hope, a despondency, a growing divide between the

Focal Point

Graeme Dawson

haves and the have-nots, and a lot of the issues cropping up again that we dealt with in our previous lock downs – rising alcohol consumption, relationship breakdowns and domestic violence is on the rise again, and the level on depression in our young people has blown right out.

Counselling centers are quoting up to 8 weeks to see clients.

So how can we even start to address these ills?

There are efforts being made, like offering free ‘Second Bite’ food for those in need. One venue near me which opens at 10am on a Friday

has most of its food taken by 9-45.

Another delivers many food hampers per week to the homes of the needy.

Then in most of our villages, sports clubs are thriving – a healthy balanced place for our young.

Another way to help, if you have a little more cash than most, is to try paying it forward by covering a food bill, or part - maybe when we see someone struggling to meet the total at the cashier in the supermarket.

The influx of coffee vans in our towns, offer great places for a chat, and if we are so wired, a friendship built there may even change a life and give us something worthwhile to do.

As Chaplain to Community I see many positive outcomes through a solid grounded faith in a God who promises life essentials like love, peace, security, hope, care, significance and purpose.

Although Covid has virtually closed the doors of smaller, older churches, people from all walks of life and various denominations

meet together in the church I attend. The place is full.

I believe people are looking for that rock/ the anchor that a faith in God brings, and a relationship with others who are seeking friendship and nurture as well.

Most Sundays at the above mentioned church people loiter over a cuppa and cake for up to three quarters of an hour after the main service finishes.

One thing that encourages me is that the Football/Netball Club where I was chaplain wants me to continue to read out a prayer over the Club at the start of each season. At the start of Covid I wrote one for protection from it – two years on, no Covid - 100 players and 100s of members.

There is hope to be found and friendships to be enjoyed if we lift our eyes to see who we could encourage and be encouraged by.

Many Blessings, Graeme Dawson, Chaplain to Community

Crime thriller worthy read Film a mediocre sandwich: poor filling, great bread

A review of Magnus Nights; The Helios Incident by Bryn Smith Magnus Nights: The Helios Incident, written by Bryn Smith and published in 2021, is the first of a series of political crime thrillers set in the futuristic city of Magnus.

Like many dystopian novels, it tells a tale of two parallel cities, with Magnus being the skycity where welfare and security is preserved. Those less fortunate in the undercity are left to struggle on their own or resort to crime.

But issues of social and economic inequality are only the backdrop. Likewise, sci-fi elements such as holography, plasma weaponry, wearable computing and communication devices and drone technology are generously deployed to help illustrate conflicts among prominent forces and their impact on the innocent and vulnerable.

So it comes down to the plot, the classic “whodunit and why” that generates much suspense, tension and excitement in all good crime thrillers. In this regard, the author has successfully hidden the identity of the criminal mastermind until the very end.

Another universal trope in the book is the “old cop, young cop” combination, as DS Augustine and DC Craddock of the police’s Taskforce Bloodhound race against time to find the source of powerful weapons that gangsters use to incinerate their enemies.

While the backstories of both detectives are lightly addressed, much attention is paid to Augustine’s hard-earned wisdom and Craddock’s instinctive (re)actions that are crucial in solving crimes. Both men are highly likeable, their dialogues revealing and humorous.

Other characters have their shadowy pasts and hidden motives. All questions are sufficiently answered in the end, with much pleasure remaining in the hunt for clues.

As the old Chinese saying goes, “the mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the

PASSION

FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN bird stalking him”. The relentless pursuit, near captures and repeated escapes is what makes the story entertaining.

The author’s strength lies in the depiction of large-scale chaos. The power of the plasma guns is impressively displayed, the vivid details of the resulting mayhem and destruction both fascinating and terrifying.

Such deadly weapons cannot be allowed to fall into wrong hands, but who is to determine whose hands are eligible and righteous? This is an issue subtly raised in the book for readers to ponder upon.

Meanwhile, the author’s background in technology and as a combat engineer in the Army Reserves helps in building a technologically advanced megacity. Think of Philip K. Dick’s “The Minority Report”, Max Brooks’s World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War and even the animated TV series Arcane that is set in the League of Legends fictional universe – Smith’s Magnus Nights deserves to be brought to the big screen to showcase the madness of its metropolis.

Before that happens, sit back and enjoy the conspiracies and power struggles in Magnus, a microcosm of our current world that is at risk of being eroded by greed and violence. Disclaimer: This review is based on a print copy of the book provided by Brisbane-based Hawkeye Publishing for free in the hope that this reviewer would provide an honest, unbiased critique.

Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore Starring Eddie Redmayne, Jude Law and Mads Mikkelsen Rated M 3.5/5 Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore is an exciting and frequently charming magical thriller with a saggy middle.

In the 1930s, a group of witches and wizards, led by Albus Dumbledore (Jude Law), must stop the tyrant Grindelwald (Mads Mikkelsen) from becoming leader of the global magical community.

The previous Fantastic Beasts films had trouble integrating their titular beasts with the magical conflicts, but The Secrets of Dumbledore does a good job of balancing its magical animals with wizarding intrigue. Said animals provide some exciting set-pieces, including a tense but amusing prison escape, and the protection and delivery of a particular creature is an integral plot-thread.

However, Supreme Head Vogel (Oliver Masucci) stresses the importance of the magical community choosing their new leader, but having a magical animal pick the new leader contradicts this democratic message.

The cast still has fantastic chemistry, Mikkelsen gives the third and best portrayal of Grindelwald in the series, and Dan Fogler

remains an endearing source of comic relief and pathos as Jake Kowalski. The plot subtly explores Jake’s estrangement from his lover Queenie (Alison Sudol) and Dumbledore’s conflicted bond with Grindelwald, and the third act is a compelling, beautiful culmination of whimsical cunning.

And yet the second act, while fun overall, feels meandering and disjointed. The explicit assertion that the plan is no plan feels like a sneaky cover for lazy writing, and the new insights into the redundant Credence’s (Ezra Miller) identity feel as halfhearted as last time.

Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore, which is playing at most Victorian cinemas, is engrossing, touching and funny, despite a flabby middle and confused views on democracy.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

CARTOON

Comical Elvis performance It’s Now or Never Elvis Presley fanatic Tom and his fiancee Alice arrive in Spain in preparation for their longawaited wedding. Keith Clark, a plumber and fellow Elvis fanatic, has offered them the use of his villa outside Mirabella whilst he is in London. But their arrival has been predated by a sighting by Keith of the real Elvis alive and hiding out in a nearby villa.

Unbeknownst to Alice who is not much of an Elvis fan, Keith talks Tom into helping kidnap Elvis to sell the story to the British tabloid press. Things go according to plan until the victim appears to die in their custody.

The confusion resulting from the attempts to hide their hysteria (and the body) from Alice mailcommunity.com.au

Kemp’s curtain call while convincing The Sunday Insider of their conquest leads to chaos as a variety of Elvises’ appear and disappear and identities change by the moment in this fast-paced and frenetic comedy.

Season: 21 April – Sunday 1 May. Tuesday, 12 April, 2022

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Fighting extinction In a bold move for conservation, a translocation trial is underway that involves moving a third of the world’s population of critically endangered lowland Leadbeater’s Possums to a new forest home near Mansfield in Victoria’s north east.

Zoos Victoria, with the help of conservation partners Parks Victoria and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, is translocating 13 of the remaining 33 lowland possums from the wild population at Yellingbo to the new location. This follows extensive surveys in Victoria’s north east and Gippsland to identify suitable habitat.

The translocation trial is the latest step in a recovery strategy based on one of the longest-running and most intensive population monitoring programs in place for a Victorian threatened species.

Zoos Victoria Senior Ecologist Dr Dan Harley, who is leading the translocation trial, said eight possums were translocated in October last year, and have done really well at their new forest home.

“Based on these results, we translocated a further five possums in late March [this year] as the next step in our trials to examine site suitability,” Dr Harley said. “The objective is to increase the population size and expand the area of occupancy as part of risk spreading against bushfire. The lowland population is suffering from inbreeding, so restoring genetic diversity is also critical.

“The translocation to new locations is a bold and brave step, but necessary to save a species that faces the very real threat of extinction in the next 15 years without intervention.

“By establishing a new wild lowland population of Leadbeater’s possums we can, hopefully, minimise the risk of this species being lost entirely during a climate-related event such as a bushfire. We also aim to increase population size and, with the introduction of some highland genetics, restore genetic diversity in the lowland population.”

Lowland Leadbeater’s possums from Yellingbo Nature Conservation Reserve and Healesville Sanctuary have been translocated to a unique patch of forest in Victoria’s north east.

Picture: ZOOS VICTORIA A successful translocation is dependent on high-quality swamp forest habitat to support foraging and provide sufficient food resources to promote breeding. Low predation risk from cats and foxes is also a key variable. Phase one of the translocation trial is already showing promising signs of breeding amongst the colonies. Importantly, no predation by cats or foxes has occurred.

Due to habitat loss, the lowland Leadbeater’s Possum now has a highly restricted range (of habitat) and is a species at significant risk of extinction because of climate change. Ninety-nine per cent of the fertile valley floors on which lowland possums rely were cleared for agriculture early last century.

The lowland Leadbeater’s Possum population is genetically distinct from highland Leadbeater’s Possums (also critically endangered).

Leadbeater’s Possum was presumed extinct early last century, prior to being rediscovered in 1961. Lowland populations of the species were thought to be extinct until 1986, when a group of surviving possums was discovered at Yellingbo. The Leadbeater’s Possum is one of Victoria’s faunal emblems.

Saturdays at Toastmasters A photo of smiling Wandin Toastmasters climbing on a frame in a playground may not seem symbolic of a Toastmasters Club but at Wandin Toastmasters, they embracing a challenge sent to three states to produce an award-winning promotional video - and they won!

Wandin’s club is six years young, and in that time it has won the highest Toastmasters International Club award every year.

The unique club has a member who was awarded the Toastmasters International District 73 (SA, VIC, Tas) Outstanding Toastmaster of the year award 2021-22 and our members consistently serve on the district leadership team.

It is a hybrid club allowing members to attend club meetings in-person or online.

The highlight of any year are members who join and strengthen the fabric of our club, like Madi.

Madi started Toastmasters after a oneafternoon meeting on a cold and dull Saturday in September 2021.

“I thought that it would be a bit of afternoon fun and that would be it. I was seriously mistaken,” she said.

“I had found my people and decided to join Wandin Toastmasters right away. These were going to be the people who would help me in more ways than one.

“My paperwork was quickly completed, and I had become a part of something bigger than myself and found something that was my own.”

Madi has grown so much since that September meeting. Toastmasters helped her through some tough decisions over the past six months - some short and long mailcommunity.com.au

Wandin Toastmasters is inviting others to join their club.

Picture: SUPPLIED term, and others life-altering.

“I landed an interview for a receptionist position at a physio clinic, with the confidence that Wandin Toastmasters has given me, I walked into the interview with a strong aura of boosted self-esteem,” she said.

“It took four days before I heard the best news: “Madi, we want to offer you the position.” I was finally aboard the train of success, and I couldn’t have done it without Wandin Toastmasters.”

Come join Wandin Toastmasters, like Madi, your path to success could be a reality within a fun, joyous environment where you will find the amazing YOU.

CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar 3 Meadowgate Drive CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar 158 Nangathan Way CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar 11 The Mall KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Churinga SC, Russo Place KILSYTH Kilsyth News & Lotto 520 - 528 Mt Dandenong Road KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette87 Colchester Road KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Canterbury Road Kilsyth KILSYTH TSG Tobacco Churinga Shopping Centre Mt Dandenong Road LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC 33-45 Hutchinson Street LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC 51-59 Anderson Street LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale Village Castella Street & Maroondah Highway LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre 7 Hardy Street LILYDALE Eastern Laundries. 2/4 Williams Street East LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre 1 Jarlo Drive LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station 473 Maroondah Highway LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale 346 Main Street LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths 31 Hutchinson Street LILYDALE BP Service Station 87 Warburton Highway LILYDALE Shell Service Station 469 Maroondah Highway LILYDALE 7 - Eleven Lilydale Cnr Maroondah Highway & Cave Hill Road LILYDALE Coles Express 469 Maroondah Highway LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe 251 Main Street LILYDALE Round Bird Can’t Fly 170 Main Street LILYDALE The Lilydale General 110 Beresford Road LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery 96 Main Street LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe 178 Main Street LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe 222 Main Street LILYDALE Gracious Grace Castella Street LILYDALE Melba Coffee House 33-45 Hutchinson Street LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies 7/75 Cave Hill Road LILYDALE The Mustard Tree Cafe 3/28 John Street LILYDALE Freda’s Cafe 2 Clarke Street LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate 164 Main Street LILYDALE Stockdale & Leggo Real Estate 281 Main Street LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate 111-113 Main Street LILYDALE Grubs Up 1 Industrial Park Drive LILYDALE Olinda Creek Hotel Maroondah Hwy LILYDALE Crown Hotel Maroondah Hwy LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road MONTROSE IGA Supermarket 916 Mt Dandenong Road MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent MOUNT EVELYN Red Robin Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale 138 York Road MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket 15 Brice Avenue MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar 38 Bellara Dive MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart 108 Hayrick Lane MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark 103 Cardigan Road MOOROOLBARK Coles Express 2 Cambridge Road MOOROOLBARK Mooroolbark Coin Laundrette28 Manchester Road MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real Estate Brice Avenue MOOROOLBARK L J Hooker Brice Avenue MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road

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MAIL 19

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 076

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

ACROSS

1 6 8 5

23 24 26 27 28

2 1

29

medium

9 5

10 11 12 13 15 16 18

8 2 1 2 6

No. 076

DOWN

Plunger (6) Sanctions (8) Rolling in the Deep singer (5) Social exclusion (9) Monetary units (5) Relating to the body (9) Perverse (8) Plant, 'Rose of Sharon' (6) Upmarket (6) Donated to; bestowed upon (4,4) Variety of nut (9) One of the Ionian islands (5) Capacity (9) Observing (5) Japanese game company (8) Thin outer coating (6)

1 4 9

easy

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

QUICK CROSSWORD 1 2 3 5 6 7 8 10 14 16 17 19 20 21 22 25

Tableland (7) Wipe (5) Supervised (7) Constitution (6) Winning streak (2,1,4) Photographic presentation (9) Country in Horn of Africa (7) Transpire (5) Pulls apart (5,4) Skipper (7) Holiday destination (7) Sun-dried brick (5) Defecate (7) Not as old (7) Must (6) Lift up (5)

DECODER

No. 076

WORDFIT

No. 076

3 LETTERS AWE

3 2 1 6 5 3 7

AXE CAR DID

3 5 7 1 8 7 2

6 2 3 7 4

DUO ETA EWE FEW GAS GEE GEL

8 6

HAM HAS IRA

hard

ISA

9 2

8 4 3 2

5 4 9

8

LAS ORB PRE

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10 11 12 13

RPM TAR

1 7

TEE

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

5

B F

ALICE

MARCO

TRITE

NEATEST

AMISS

MEDAL

TULSA

REFEREE

4 LETTERS

ANELE

NASAL

UNITE

SIDECAR

DREW

ARENA

NASTY

VIRAL

STUMBLE

9-LETTER WORD

EASE

ARISE

OBESE

WHERE

ERIK

BELIE

OPERA

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

ETNA

CAMEL

PANEL

6 LETTERS

AMERICAS

EVAN

CASIO

PARTS

APPEAL

EPITASIS

HIFI

CUBIT

PLANT

EATERY

TEETOTAL

IOTA

ELEGY

PRATE

ELATED

TOLERANT

KIRK

ENEMA

PRICE

PEBBLE

MATH

EXERT

RECUR

Today’s Aim: 22 words: Good

OSLO

FIRST

RELET

7 LETTERS

STEADFASTLY

SINE

HOSTS

SCALD

CENTRES

TEMPERATURE

STEP

IDEAS

SLOTS

MEMENTO

TUTU

IDOLS

THETA

URGE

ITALY

TIMES

KATIE

TOTAL

5 LETTERS

LUNAR

TOTEM

ADORE

MALAY

TRASH

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

B

33 words: Very good

2 1 7 3 4 6 8 9 5

9 8 3 6 7 4 1 5 2

5 7 2 1 8 9 4 6 3

45 words: Excellent

I

N

D

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MAIL 21

SPORT

Garside takes title From just the boy who grew up in Mooroolbark to an Olympian and now to an Australian lightweight title holder, Harry Garside has made headlines for his second professional boxing bout success.

In the 10 round fight against Manuer Matet in Sydney on Wednesday 6 April, Garside dominated his opponent with a unanimous decision from the judges, taking him to 2 and 0 in his professional career.

Early in the piece, Garside was able to hit big and clean, using his body and fast movements to overpower Matet’s shots.

Although taller of the two, Matet’s punches and style of hitting was uncontrolled, proving Garside as the better boxer for his precision, accuracy and ability to move around the ring gracefully.

While the crowd could see Garside’s impeccable performance, the 24-year-old commented after the bout on his need to improve and to head back to the gym, a look into his character as he climbs the boxing ladder.

“I’m always a massive critic,” he said.

“That was a terrible performance and I’m always looking to grow, always looking to be the best version of myself.

“I’m going to go back to the gym, watch that fight back and there’s always room for improvement.”

Although the longest fight he has had in his boxing experience, Garside did not take a seat throughout the entire time in the ring, another point of difference in the

young fighter’s playbook.

“I know this is the longest fight I’ve ever had, but I’ve never understood sitting down.

“You never sit down when you spar – most boxers don’t – and I think when you sit down your mind tells you that you’re about to stop.”

At full time the judges scored Garside 98-92, 99-91, 98-92.

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Saturday was mild and sunny at Esther Park as Mooroolbark Soccer Club (fourth) hosted Monbulk Rangers (eleventh) in round four of State 2 South-East.

Barkers had to make three changes to the side that lost 1-3 at Knox City, with Eddie Clark, Sam Klepac and Josh Newman replacing Dan Burrows, Steve Nittoli and Geordie Scott.

In the second half, Ahren Angulo and Harry Rushton would make their debuts as substitutes. On paper a straightforward fixture for Barkers, but soccer is never so predictable.

It was 34 years to the day since David Klepac scored in a 5-2 win over Nunawading. Son Sam, the only player whose father and grandfather both played for the club, was unaware of this. Or perhaps deep down, he was, for something special was about to happen.

Not that there was much evidence of this in the first half. Barkers began well, with a low ball in from the left allowing Arash Sadeghi to score his first goal for Barkers with a calm finish into the bottom corner past Beau Newman in the Monbulk goal.

Then on the stroke of half-time, Barkers had a free-kick just inside their own half.

This was pumped into the penalty area, then cleared out to Maxim Solovyev, who hit a shot which was saved by Newman as it bounced awkwardly in front of him. Halftime: Mooroolbark 1-1 Monbulk Rangers, with no hint of what was to follow.

On the return from the break the Barkers, in particular Solovyev and Klepac, shift-

ed up a gear to dramatic effect.

On 56 minutes, Nick Andrejic found Solovyev, who released Klepac on the right.

Klepac beat his man and hit a low shot into the corner of the net for 2-1 Barkers, a sublime finish to a fine move.

Then Mark Naumowicz had to claim the ball in a goalmouth scramble from a Monbulk corner, before Sean Perrin broke on the left wing. He crossed invitingly for Klepac, who hit a lovely glancing touch beyond Newman into the far corner for 3-1.

Within a minute, Solovyev had slipped a clever ball through to Klepac, who responded by claiming his hat-trick within 15 minutes – the second-fastest ever by a male Barker and 4-1 to Barkers.

Right on full time, Klepac hit a shot on the run just wide, but Barkers were far from finished as stoppage time loomed. First, a long ball from the right saw Solovyev head wide from an offside position. Then Solovyev again set up Klepac, who scored his fourth for the half. Just a minute later, a cross from the right found Solovyev, who made it 6-1 and gained his just reward for all those assists.

Full-time: Mooroolbark 6-1 Monbulk Rangers.

This really was a game of two halves.

After half-time, Solovyev and Klepac were unplayable, albeit assisted by a generous Monbulk defence. It’s noticeable that, within two weeks, Solovyev has linked up with two different forwards to demolish the opposition.

Barkers are now second, three points behind the unbeaten Peninsula Strikers, and host Skye United (eighth) at the Kennel in a rare Thursday night fixture.

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SPORT

Three Lilydale wins

By Callum Ludwig It was a successful round for the Lilydale Football Club, with wins from all three senior sides at home against Upper Ferntree Gully on Saturday.

The U19’s bounced back from a disappointing 4-point loss to Croydon last week being Upper Ferntree Gully 14.11, 95 to 6.7, 43.

Recently-named Eastern Ranges U19 Rowan Tucker showed his talent with a relentless display off half-back and through the midfield, racking up the ball and kicking a goal in a mature showing from the young man who will be training in his jocks this week.

Captain Mitchell Van De Maat made a successful return from a hamstring setback, ever composed and showing Chirnside Park exactly why they belong in Division Four by letting him go.

Adrian Clark was a running machine all day on the wing, constantly presenting for the switch option where the kick actually made it to him probably 3 times out of 10 and Ryan “Ninja” Haley popped up with two sneaky goals.

The most spectacular moment of the day came from the ever-energetic Cooper Beckwith who almost took a screamer in the third quarter, doing all the hard work to knee his opponent in the face before forgetting to actually mark the footy.

Cobey Clausen was also strong off half-back, alongside tall skinny guy Bailey Grant who made the switch from the forward line. Ashton Dobbin competed strongly in the ruck in the absence of the hamstrung Luke Phillips who used his big mouth to yell from the bench all day. Daniel Ryan held back on the spin moves in a strong midfield display and Lachlan Isbester competed strongly despite not being able to hit a barn door in front of goal.

The Dales Reserves side also came home with a strong result, toppling Upper Gully 9.9, 63 to 3.11, 29.

Travis Mihan, who rocked up looking dash-

Lilydale FC came away with wins for all three senior football sides on Saturday.

Picture: SUPPLIED ing in a suit as a result of a 25m penalty given away the week prior, brought the style to the game as well, kicking two nice goals and running the midfield. Harry “Tiktoks” Mitchell was also ever the goalsneak, kicking two. Cameron “Fridge” Oude-Meilink was also a strong presence in the ruck on his birthday, Oscar Aliotta was a livewire through the midfield and down back, and Alex Carrigan hit contests like a freight train as usual.

Astin Bucci was a rock at the back, with strong spoils and contested marks, and seemingly enjoyed giving coach Jesse Rottinger a kiss after being named as one of the best on ground.

Jamie Moller put in a strong performance in the forward line, before putting in a woeful one in the celebrations, wiped out on the trainers bench by 6pm.

Club favourite Jimmy MacFarlane had a notable collision with the fence after one particularly strong lead from full forward, with the fence appearing to come off second best. Jimmy will be issuing a formal apology to the fence at training this week.

Other moments from the 2’s included Sean “Ranga” Hajdu taking a disliking to one particular Upper Ferntree Gully player, and another Sean, this time Calcaterra pulling out a party trick with a scrappy double-nutmeg goal

in the goalsquare.

The Seniors brought home the hat-trick with a resounding 68 point win, kicking 18.7, 115 to Upper Ferntree Gully’s 5.17, 47.

The Lilydale forward line was electric with 5 goals to both Jordan Jaworski and Macauley Beckwith, while powerhouse forward Jack Bateman kicked 4 before succumbing to a hamstring injury.

Macauley Beckwith could’ve set himself further apart as the leading goalkicker in the 1st Division, were it not for his inaccuracy in front of goal, also contributing 5 of Lilydale’s 7 total behinds for the match, kicking 4 of his goals in junk time in the fourth quarter. A day of coulda, woulda, shoulda for the Beckwith brothers it seems.

Jayden Depace was prolific in the midfield, looking to have quickly returned to his 2019 best and fairest winning form, while Ryan “Dobby” McNay repelled Upper Ferntree Gully from half-back.

Ruckman Matthew Phillips realised he could get his big, lanky frame out of the way of his opponent, resulting in Lilydale having the first service for the football for most of the afternoon.

“Matthew Phillips really set the tone with his strong contested marks and quality ruck craft today.” said Matthew Phillips.

Alan Love was the stand-in coach in the absence of the Covid-stricken Luke McCormick, continuing his streak as the only Lilydale seniors coach to lead the team to a victory since the start of the last season. Pressure is on Macca.

The football sides will take on Mitcham in their next game, following the Easter break.

In the netball on Friday night, the Falcons suffered an agonising 3-point loss to Heathmont in Section 1, having led at each break.

Taniesha Luiyf was the best on court for the Falcons. The Gold side beat Glen Waverley 45-18, with Hayley Tucker picking up the 3 votes.

The junior football sides also had their first games of the season on Sunday as well, with wins for the U11 and U12 sides.

Montrose builds a base for the season

By Mikayla van Loon In a round one clash against the division one favourites East Ringwood, Montrose Football Club fell short by just two goals during a wet tussle between the sides.

As the first game of the season and first game for new coach Gary Ayres, although not a win, the result was pleasing to the coaching staff and players.

“I felt our preparation had been building, we had three practice games and in each game, we were a little bit better in the areas that I would like to see the team be able to play, such as our systems and our structures and just our ball movement,” Ayres said.

But with the rainy conditions in Saturday’s opener, Ayres said East Ringwood was probably better suited to playing in the wet.

“That probably suited East Ringwood a little bit more with their bigger bodies and I guess a little bit more experience but they actually adapted to the conditions better and it took us a while,” he said.

Coming back after halftime, Ayres said the team regrouped and attempted to adapt to the wet weather.

“I thought our second half from a contested ball and actually staying in the game from a perseverance and persistence point of view, I thought was really, really good.

“When I wrapped up the game, I was

Montrose Football Club’s senior faced top contender East Ringwood in the EFNL division one opening round. Picture: MONTROSE FC pleased with what we tried to do but it’s a lesson and there was lots to get out of the game from the learnings point of view particularly if it is going to be wet, even though we haven’t played in those conditions, we’ve got to adapt and the football becomes fairly fundamental.”

Heading into round two against Wantirna South, Ayres said it was another chance to improve on the things that held the team back like moving the ball out of congested areas and making the most of scoring opportunities.

Another close shield game

By Murray Howlett The sixth round of the Metro Golf Croquet Autumn Shield was played at Ringwood on Thursday 7 April where Lilydale was defeated by the home club in another closely fought match.

The games were four to two in Ringwood’s favour and the hoops were 36 to 33.

The highlight of the game was Drew Pawley mailcommunity.com.au

winning his singles game again.

Drew has won all the singles games he has played this season.

The other players representing Lilydale were Alan Jones and Ray Ogle. The next match is against Sandringham on the 21 April.

Ray Ogle was one of the players to take to the croquet court for Lilydale on Thursday 7 April.

272040 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

“What we can do is make sure that our mind is open to trying to get better and continue to try and refine what we know we can do well but also do the things that will give us a better opportunity to put more pressure on the opposition.”

Montrose was able to do just that in a tight tussle in the second round, with Wantirna South leading at the finish of each quarter but the Demons were able to finish up with a one point win (86-85).

Five players made their debut on the opening weekend, with a number of players also returning to the club for the 2022 season, each playing their part in the side and performing to a high standard, something Ayres said was a promising sign for the rest of the season.

Although just two games under their belt, Ayres viewed the first round as a base to build on throughout the season.

“It should give us some confidence to be honest. We’re trying to develop depth, we’re trying to develop a squad that will hopefully give us an opportunity to play finals,” he said.

“It sounds cliche but it is really about one game at a time but it’s really about one quarter at a time.

“We believe that we have got the makings of being a better side, it’s just really how much better we can be and that’s going to be seen over the coming weeks and months.”

Former Mooroolbark juniors and now senior player Dermot Reynolds held a key role on the back line in the first game of the season. Picture: MOOROOLBARK FC

Mustangs on a role

By Mikayla van Loon Mooroolbark Football Club was able to walk away from the first round of the EFNL’s division one game against Mitcham with a strong 26 point win.

The promising start placed Mooroolbark second on the ladder behind Bayswater, with the senior coach Bret Lavers saying it was a good opener to the season. “We managed to get the four points albeit a very challenging day against Mitcham who are a very good side,” he said.

“For probably three and a half quarters they were right with us and it was only late that we managed to get on top of them and secure the victory.”

Pleased with the pressure placed on Mitcham, as well as the roles some younger players and some new recruits had on the field, Lavers said the coaching group was happy with the result of round one.

Former AFL player Heath Hocking made his debut at Mooroolbark on weekend, finding his feet in the first half but stepping up to the mark at the end.

“He improved as the game went on and he was fantastic for us especially in that last quarter,” Lavers said.

Moving forward into the season, Lavers said there was not one side that he necessarily saw as the top contender although on past experience East Ringwood would “probably be the benchmark for everyone.”

“We’re still taking it one week at a time. In our division, as close as it is, any side can knock over anyone on a given day.

“I think that probably proved to us and our boys that if we get our system right, we’re a good football side and our best can beat anyone on our day, it’s just a matter of being able to execute that.”

With new coaches in Gary Ayres at Montrose and Luke McCormick at Lilydale, Lavers said the season could be quite competitive at a local level.

“To be able to go back to our local community and play some derbies against Montrose or Lilydale or Croydon I think is really exciting.

“It puts footy in perspective sometimes with what’s happened in the last couple years, but hopefully we’re free of that and we can get to play some good footy against some good quality opponents.”

Lavers said local footy competitions are designed to bring the local community together and he hopes throughout the season the excitement of Mooroolbark’s football will do just that.

“Our expectations are that our best footy can compete with the best of them and I’d like to think that the game style we’re going to play is going to be an exciting game to come and watch for our members, supporters and players alike.

“So we hope that everyone embraces what we’re trying to do with our footy club and our group can hopefully win enough games to play finals.”

Mooroolbark was able to take a round two win against newcomers Beaconsfield, with final scores finishing up 82 to 51.

Tuesday, 12 April, 2022

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