Mail - Ferntree Gully Star Mail - 7th June 2022

Ferntree Gully Belgrave

Donations needed to get through winter

Liberals pledge to set up new SES station

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Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

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Project tells stories of forgotten heroes

SPOTLIGHT: Sherbrooke art awards a success

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PAGE 14 Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808

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Marking one year

Monbulk resident Leharna Black sitting on part of the tree that went through her roof. due to blocked trails and damaged bridges, while others slowly re-open after lengthy closures. Several important community buildings

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like school grounds also remain closed after becoming unusable during the storms, with one teacher saying “there’s no way that we can

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

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One year ago the Dandenong Ranges was struck by a massive storm event, leaving the region reeling in the aftermath.

Today, residents from the hills are still in the process of recovery and restoration from the damage and destruction on June 9 and 10, 2021.

The storm is still at the forefront of people’s minds as they return to their homes, wait in temporary accommodation and reflect on the trauma of those gusty winds that changed everything in just a few hours.

For many, the power went out as they went to bed without knowing five hours later they would wake to the sound of a tree falling through the centre of their house.

Some members of the community have yet to see their houses rebuilt 12 months later and are facing the question of what their next step will be.

According to the Insurance Council of Australia, as of May 2022 more than 34,000 claims have been made in Gippsland, the Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Ranges due to the storm weather event, with an estimated insurance loss value of $302.9m.

From Montrose to Emerald, SES crews worked tirelessly to clear road blockages and make properties safe, even as they suffered from their own losses from the night.

While the storm has been labelled a “freak weather event,” SES controllers plead for residents to be prepared this winter.

Residents are asking what has been done to prepare for future events, with infrastructure and telecommunications seemingly no better off than before the storms passed through the area and revealed the fragility of vital emergency response systems.

Significant places in the Dandenong Ranges like the 1000 Steps remain closed to the public

NEWS

Angliss Hospital upgrades

By Parker McKenzie

Development Victoria’s artistic rendition of what the proposed wetlands will look like.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Open for comment

By Parker McKenzie Development Victoria has submitted planning applications for the contentious “Lake Knox” development to Knox City Council, which are now open for comment from the public.

Knox City Council confirmed it had received the two planning permits, one for each of the two-stage subdivision and the construction of wetlands.

The proposed redevelopment of the site, located on the corner of Burwood Highway and Scoresby Road in Knoxfield, consists of plans to subdivide the site, remove vegetation to create 105 lots build, a wetland with cycling and walking tracks, open space areas and a bird lookout, and the removal of a damn referred to as Lake Knox by local residents.

The development has proven controversial because of several hatchings of vulnerable blue-billed ducks being found at the dam and concerns about whether ecological outcomes could be recreated through building artificial wetlands.

Knox City Mayor Susan Laukens said Council knows the community wants them to advocate

for the conservation of the dam and the ducks.

“There is significant community interest in this proposed redevelopment, and a real concern for some people in the community is the presence of blue billed ducks, and whether the wetland will be suitable for them, what happens to them during construction and their wellbeing once the dam is removed,” she said.

“We have very strict rules that apply to how we make planning decisions. If we don’t follow those rules our decision and any opportunity we have to influence a development application can be called into question and thrown out by VCAT or the Minister.”

The artificial damn is on the grounds of the former Knoxfield Horticultural Research Institute, where it is believed to have been used to store water for use in irrigating research crops in either the late 1950s or early 1960s.

Knox City Council said in 2018 the Minister for Planning rezoned the land and changed some of the overlays in order to facilitate the development of the land for residential, commercial and retail purposes.

“At the time Council made a submission to the rezoning process that called for the sensi-

tive biodiversity on this site to be retained, protected, and enhanced,” Knox City Council said.

“The submission highlighted the existing dam and recommended not changing the environmental significance overlay until the new wetland had been established.”

Development Victoria said on 12 May the plan to replace the dam will take place over a period of three to four years, with the first stage consisting of constructing and establishing a new wetland and drainage connected to Blind Creek, followed by at least 12 months of ecological monitoring to assess the progress of the establishment of the habitat.

A community-funded report by Professor Paul Boon stated several issues with the development, including that claims of guaranteed ecological success “are inconsistent with scientific literature,” “doubts over Development Victoria’s capacity to deliver high-quality replacement aquatic habitat,” and the plan containing questionable assertions about Lake Knox and its development.

The planning permits can be viewed at www.knox.vic.gov.au/planning-applications621-burwood-highway

Networking event for Boronia traders

By Parker McKenzie Traders in Boronia will be able to connect and network with each other at an event hosted by the Boronia Revitalisation Board on 16 June.

The networking event is being held at Boronia Progress Hall, from 5.30pm to 7pm, to help traders develop and build connections in the local business community.

Chair of the Revitalisation Board and Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor said it is an important part of the board’s work in supporting locals and “in particular our vibrant business community.”

“I’m so proud of the State Government’s plan and work to revitalise Boronia. There’s nearly 20 projects complete, underway or about to start to help build a better Boronia,” he said.

“This networking event funded by the State Government will be an opportunity to bring them together and to better understand how we can further work together to improve outcomes locally for businesses.”

The Boronia Revitalisation Board was established in 2021 as a part of the Victorian Government’s suburban revitalisation program to introduce targeted investments and programs to support the local community.

Mr Taylor said he would be attending the event, which is supported by Knox City Council.

“Over 50 local Boronia businesses benefitted from the $150,000 Business Façade program funded by State Government and with more funding just announced in the recent State Budget to continue our important work,” he said.

“I’m keen to work with the Board and community to see how else we can partner with businesses to support them and our community to thrive”.

Results from a previous survey on local experiences during Covid-19 and the support needed for traders will be presented at the event.

More information can be found at www. eventbrite.com.au/e/boronia-business-networking-event-registration-336880718297

Knox City Council is supporting a Boronia Traders network event hosted by the Boronia Revitalisation Board.

Picture: ON FILE

The Angliss Hospital in Upper Ferntree Gully will receive a $112 million upgrade, featuring a multi-storey building and increased surgery capacity.

Minister for Health Martin Foley announced on Monday 30 May architectural firm Silver Thomas Hanley has been appointed to design the expansion.

“Healthcare workers at the Angliss Hospital go to work every day to give local patients the very best care. We’re standing with them and continuing to invest in a world-class hospital to deliver first-class care,” he said.

“With the design phase underway, a bigger and better Angliss Hospital is now another step closer for families in Melbourne’s outer east.”

Operated by Eastern Health, the Angliss Hospital upgrade will include a 32-bed inpatient unit, four operating theatres, a central sterile supply department and an outpatient services space.

Site preparation works are currently scheduled to start in late 2022 with the construction of the new multi-storey building expected to be underway in late 2023. The project is expected to employ 330 people within the construction industry.

With a change in electoral boundaries from November 2022 election, the Angliss is now located in Deputy Premier and Monbulk MP James Merlino’s electorate.

“This is a vital expansion that will ensure the Angliss Hospital is able to meet the needs of the growing local community.” Mr Merlino said.

The State Government said the expansion will significantly increase surgery capacity and capabilities at the hospital “meaning less time on waiting lists and better access to world-class healthcare and facilities for families in Knox and the Yarra Ranges.”

The Angliss Hospital was first established in 1939 and is named after politician and philanthropist Sir William Chalres Angliss. It was relocated to it’s current location in 1958.

The hospital unveiled a $20 million intensive care and short-stay unit expansion in October 2018, adding 14 intensive care beds, two dedicated mental health beds, eight paediatric beds and 16 adult acute short-stay beds.

The Angliss Hospital is set to receive a $122 million upgrade. Picture: ON FILE

The DRREA’s Free Community Renewable Energy Roadshow is coming!

DRREA and the Yarra Valley Community Power Hub are hosting a FREE community event on the 20th June from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at The Emerald Hills Hub.

Come along to learn more about your local Community Renewable Energy Group!

Registration is essential – please visit: https://bit.ly/3vwyRuN or scan the QR Code 12551362-JC23-22

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NEWS

IN BRIEF Knox community development grants

Family pet killed

By Tyler Wright

Peppi, beloved pet of the local Kalorama Saunders family, passed away on Saturday 30 May. Picture: SUPPLIED other dog was seized.

“Council seized the dog, which was subsequently taken to Animal Aid,” the spokesperson said. Yarra Ranges Council are currently investigating the matter. “Attacks like these are rare, and can cause significant trauma and

sadness for all involved.

We take these attacks very seriously, and are committed to the safety and wellbeing of our community,” they said.

The owner of the larger dog declined to comment.

Free flu vaccinations announced for June

By Renee Wood

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Victorians will be able to book in for free flu vaccinations during the month of June after the State Government announced a $33 million dollar package.

Cases of influenza have increased by more than 30 per cent in the past week with the opportunity aimed at reducing a barrier to Victorians getting the vaccine.

It’s hoped the rise in vaccination uptake will help to reduce the number of cases and ease pressure on the already struggling hospital system.

Health Minister Martin Foley said this will be the first time in two years that we will face a real flu season.

“We need all Victorians to roll up their sleeves and help protect their loved ones and our health system by getting vaccinated,” he said.

The vaccine generally comes at a cost, and is only offered free to children under five, people over 65, pregnant women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people at risk with medical conditions.

Some 3000 clinics are taking part in the program and GPs and pharmacies will be reimbursed for vaccines that are administered to anyone who isn’t usually eligible for free jabs.

Extra grants of $2000 are available for immunisation providers to help meet the demand such as for rostering more staff and longer hours.

Chirnside Park Medical Clinic is expecting to see a rise in vaccination bookings now the announcement has been made. 274300 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS The news comes as other states also implement free influenza vaccinations.

Chirnside Park Medical Clinic Practice Manager Farah Aziz said it’s a great initiative to help more Victorians get vaccinated but there has been little communication on how to accommodate the program.

Ms Aziz said her clinic has received no communication from the Health Department or the Primary Health Network when it was announced.

“There hasn’t been much communication with the Victorian GP clinics - to say this is the plan, this is where you’re going to get your stock and this is the best way to go about it,” Ms Aziz said.

Ms Aziz said the demand is there with the clinics currently servicing 30 vaccina-

tions a day, however there may be an issue with stock now the announcement has been made.

“I actually don’t know if we will get that increased amount that we put in today, we should be getting it hopefully end of this week if not next week so we can actually cater for the demand that will be coming,” she said.

“I have no doubt that the demand will be there and the uptake will be massive but it’s going to be, I think, a supply issue now.”

The month of June has been targeted to make vaccinations effective and to hold strong immunity for three to four months over the winter period.

Ms Aziz fears this will be one of the worst flu seasons, which is already being reflected in local cases - the clinic is currently seeing up to 30 patients a day with respiratory symptoms.

“It’s multiple [viruses], it’s just not the flu – it’s really bad gastro in kids and this really bad wheeze happening in kids… no doubt this is going to be by far one of the worst flu seasons ever.”

A shortage in nurses is another battle the sector is still facing and the $2000 grants might not go the distance in supporting immunisers with the rise in demand. “…nurses are completely leaving the entire industry because they are so burnt out with Covid. The reason a lot of the hospitals are overrun are because there’s not enough staff.”

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Police are searching for a missing Thomastown man who may be in the Emerald area.

Police said the 32-year-old man named Luke was last seen on Friday 2 June and may be driving a silver Volkswagen Polo.

“We have concerns for Luke as his disappearance is out of character,” Victoria Police said.

“He is known to frequent the Emerald area.”

Victoria Police is urging anyone who sees Luke or knows his whereabouts to contact Ballarat Plice on 5336 6000.

Pothole alert Emerald CFA has warned residents of a Massive pothole damaging cars on Wellington Road on the way out of Emerald towards Rowville.

The pothole, just past Cardinia Reservoir, has damaged vehicles of residents and CFA is warning people to drive safely when passing through the area.

Silvan car accident Paramedics were called to reports of a collision around 4.30pm in Silvan on Saturday. A woman believed to be in her 60s suffered a chest injury and was taken to Maroondah Hospital in a stable condition.

This the second accident at this location within the last week, according to a Silvan Fire Brigade post.

Motorbikes stolen in Belgrave Yarra Ranges Crime Investigation Unit is seeking information from the public after two motorbikes were stolen in Belgrave.

The “unique” motorbikes were stolen from an address in Belgrave between March and May 2022.

The Police are asking anybody with information regarding the burglary or whereabouts of the motorbikes to contact Yarra Ranges CIU on 9739 2401.

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Kalorama local and dog owner Deborah Saunders, along with her family, are devastated after an incident resulting in the death of their dog, Peppi, in Kalorama on Saturday.

Between 9:30am and 10:00am, an alleged fight ensued between the family’s chihuahua and a larger dog passing by the front of the property - an altercation which ended in the Saunders’ front yard.

“My husband’s been to the doctors and he’s got two weeks off for stress, [and] he just keeps crying,” Deborah said.

“Every time I looked at him I always said ‘Isn’t he beautiful? Isn’t he lovely?’ And now he’s gone - way too soon.”

“He had the best character of a dog, and he was just something different - he was spectacular in every way.”

Peppi was ten years old, had diabetes and recently underwent eye cataract surgery.

“There was nothing we couldn’t do for him because he was just so special; now we’re just shattered,” the owner said.

In a statement to the Star Mail, a Yarra Ranges Council spokesperson said council took “immediate action” after being notified of the incident on Sunday 29 May and the

Knox City Council has announced the Community Development Fund Program is accepting grant applications for the next financial year.

The program offers grants for not-for-profit community groups, helping support local activities and events in Knox.

There are three categories of grants available.

Category one is for general projects, programs, activities or equipment and ranges from $3000 up to $20,000.

Category two is for community festivals and events ranging up to $15,000 (for events running for at least three years).

Category three is for community group functions for a maximum of $5000.

Grants are for one-off events and are not intended for recurrent funding, except for category 2 events.

The grant program aims to support projects benefiting Knox residents and encourage connection and inclusion.

More information can be found at www. knox.vic.gov.au/our-council/grants/community-development-fund-grant-program

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NEWS

Charity sees needs rise

By Parker McKenzie Non-perishable food, knitted and cold weather clothing and surprisingly toilet paper are some of the items most needed by vulnerable members of the community this winter, according to local non-for-profits.

Community Hub and Meeting Place in Our Neighbourhood — or CHAMPION for short — is a community service established by the Temple Society of Australia, offering emergency food relief and assistance to those in need.

CHAMPION Community Outreach Officer Sarah Horsnell said the best type of donations for winter are toiletries, clothes and non perishes foods.

“That consists of non-perishable frozen meat that we buy from the butcher, fruit and veg, fridge and freezer items,” she said.

“Generally toiletries and knitted goods too.

Toilet paper is one at the moment people are struggling to find.”

80 per cent of the non-for-profit organisation’s donations come from the general public and it doesn’t require pension or concession cards to access its services.

Judy Thornbury from Open Door Commu-

Pastor Julian Holdsworth from Belgrave South Baptist Church with their donation to Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service.

Picture: SUPPLIED nity Care, a Monbulk non-for-profit running an open door pantry, said most of their food is supplied through Foodbank Victoria.

“Winter clothing and blankets are always welcome,” she said.

“Food-wise we aren’t doing too bad. Toilet

paper always goes quickly when it comes in.”

Ms Horsnell said anyone wishing to volunteer with CHAMPION should contact her through the details on their website.

“We have a community hub plus a food hub as well, where people can come down and select what foods they want,” she said.

“We also work with people with further issues such as financial issues or family violence, referring them into services that might assist them further.”

Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service Manager Tania Bevins said she believes more people are seeking help through community care organisations because of the rising cost of living.

“We can always use some help. We welcome all inquiries and we can’t operate without the support,” she said.

“Sleeping bags rated for cold weather are always needed and something we need more of.”

According to Foodbank Victoria, an estimated 11,000 Victorians are unable to be assisted when seeking food relief each month, with 38 percent of them being children.

Dandenong Relief Service receives large can donation

By Parker McKenzie The Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service has received a huge donation of over 1000 cans of food from Belgrave South Baptist Church, helping feed hundreds of disadvantaged people. DRERS Manager Tania Bevan said rip-top canned food suits people who don’t have access to facilities to cook because of homelessness.

“We aim to assist people who are disadvantaged self-reliant, even if this usually means they stop seeing us, while we focus on the next group struggling with severe setbacks.” she said.

The not-for-profit community care organisation based in Belgrave gives disadvantaged community members access to food, payment of prescription medication, clothing, bill assistance, advocacy and counselling.

Belgrave South Baptist Church Pastor Julian Holdsworth said the church has previously given a similar donation in June 2021.

“We just want to help the people who may be doing it tough in the Hills and DRERS are the professionals in that field.” he said.

The charity was founded in 1998 and offers food, clothing and financial assistance to those in need.

The cans were collected by the congregation at the Baptist Church during May. The Dandenong Ranges Relief Service is located at the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub, where people can drop in for social interaction.

DRERS can be called between 9am and 12.30pm from Monday to Friday on 9754 7777.

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NEWS

Liberals make SES pledge

By Parker McKenzie Liberal Opposition Leader Matthew Guy has announced his support for a new SES unit to be established in Olinda to relieve two of the busiest units in the state.

On Thursday 2 May, Mr Guy” alongside Mt Evelyn MP Bridgett Valence, Upper House MP Cathrine Burnett-Wake and Monbulk Liberal candidate Gareth Ward” visited Olinda Recreational Reserve to announce the election promise.

“12 months on from what was a devastating storm event in the Dandenong Ranges, it is a very important announcement I make today,” he said.

“This announcement of 8 million to establish a new SES unit right here on the ridge in Monbulk Olinda is so important for local people who rely on the SES. “They need the SES, the SES is the saviour in so many different problems from what was the most devastating storm we’ve seen in the hills for a very, very, very long time.”

The three closest SES units” in Emerald, Knox and Lilydale” were kept busy in 2021.

Emerald SES received 1,971 requests for assistance, making them the third busiest unit in the state for 2021. The nearby SES unit in Lilydale was the second busiest with close to 2000 jobs, only behind Frankston for total call-outs.

Emerald SES Controller Ben Owen said the new unit is needed because “when you think of Emerald, Lilydale and Knox, there is nothing up here on the hill.”

Opposition leader Matthew Guy announced the election promise alongside Emerald SES members and local Liberal Party MPs and candidates in Olinda.

Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE “If a tree comes down on Mountain Highway at four in the afternoon, to get the resources there within five minutes instead of 25 frees the road up much quicker,” he said.

“We’ll probably run it ourselves initially under Emerald and skill them up, but as soon as we know it’s going ahead we will come up here and use the haul if we need to and train

people,” he said.

A Spokesperson for the State Government said the SES volunteers do an incredible job keeping the Victorian community safe.

“We’ll always ensure they have the facilities and resources they need to continue their critical work,” the spokesperson said.

“Thanks to the advocacy of the local community, we’ve recently delivered a $7 million brand new state-of-the-art VICSES unit on the Belgrave-Gembrook Road that will meet the growing demands of the community and support our hardworking local volunteers.”

An additional unit in the Dandenong Ranges has been considered by the State Government to take pressure off of the 46 volunteers at Emerald SES. Mr Ward, who will run in Deputy Premier and Monbulk MP James Merlino’s electorate, said he takes “full credit” for the idea to build a Monbulk-Olinda SES unit.

“This is something I thought that we needed before I was even involved in politics after the storm,” he said.

“We didn’t have anything up here and I was trying to help get people out of their homes through my own business and I could see how hard it was people.”

Mr Ward said pressing issues for the electorate included more funding for Monbulk CFA and installing underground power lines.

Mr Owen said he would also like to see action on placing power lines underground in the future.

“If we get a tree that has fallen on power lines, we can’t touch it,” he said.

“If you’ve trees falling on the road and the powers underground, we can deal with the tree.”

Mr Merlino was contacted for comment on whether he would support a new SES unit in the electorate.

Traders question future of promised rail car parking

By Parker McKenzie

Young families will be able to enjoy Emerald Library’s ‘Story Time’ sessions in a larger space thanks to new upgrades.

Picture: TYLER WRIGHT

Emerald Library officially opens upgraded facility

By Tyler Wright Emerald Library were delighted to officially launch upgraded facilities on Friday 3 June, welcoming an expanded children’s area, purpose fit study room and more space for locals to lounge and read.

“Our focus was on creating more space for kids and families to linger in the library, to refresh and modernize our foyer, to cater for people wanting to casually hang out and that tends to be our youth… to improve our accessible amenities and to repurpose the old meeting room to a comfortable study zone that’s more connected with the rest of the library,” Casey Cardinia Libraries CEO Beth Luppino said at the launch.

“This upgrade project is a great example of state and local government working with public libraries and key partners to improve our spaces, which are much loved by our local community,” Ms Luppino said.

The upgrades were made possible by the Victorian Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program, $67,600 from Cardinia Shire Council and funds from Federation University and the former Emerald Mechanics Institute.

“There are 277 public libraries throughout Victoria, [they’re] an absolute jewel in mailcommunity.com.au

the crown of our public facilities… It’s a place that’s free, It’s a place that more than just gives people access to loan books,” The Hon Shaun Leane, Minister for Local Government said.

“There were library staff ringing up regular clients making sure they were okay [and linking] them to services if they needed food [during the pandemic]; there was always the means,” Minister Leane said.

Deputy Premier James Merlino said facilities such as Emerald Library are the main local connector for towns in the Dandenong Ranges.

“They’ve been so vital in the mental health and wellbeing of communities and will continue to be so,” Minister Merlino said.

Throughout the upgrades, the Hills Hub facilitated Emerald Library’s services for several weeks.

A mural in the library foyer displays Emerald and the Cardinia Shire area in JRR Tolkien’s illustrative style.

Funding from the Victorian Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure program is provided to support projects that deliver and demonstrate benefits for the community and/or aim to improve engagement and access to learning opportunities.

A local traders association will host a public meeting to “find out what exactly is going on” in regards to a promised commuter car park in Ferntree Gully.

The Ferntree Gully Village Traders Association will host a public meeting on Saturday June 18, 2pm at the Ferntree Gully Uniting Church to discuss where the car park is planned to be built, what it will look like and why it is being built.

President of the Ferntree Gully Traders Association Kathryn Lowe said the traders believe federal money has been given to the state to build the car park.

“The traders are just trying to find out more information about what’s planned, and exactly where it is going,” she said.

“We have an idea where it’s going but only because of the funny rumours, it’s not even confirmed by the state government.”

The association has invited representatives from local, state and federal governments to attend.

Details listed on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications website describe the project as “expected to construct two at-grade commuter car parks to increase the capacity of the park and ride facilities at Ferntree Gully Railway Station” at the cost of $16 million.

On May 26, Knox City Council released a statement stating it will write to the new Labor

Federal Government to clarify its position on funding commuter car parks in Boronia and Ferntree Gully.

“Ahead of the 2019 election, the Australian Government announced funding for commuter car parks in Boronia and Ferntree Gully,” the council said.

“In both instances, the funding was earmarked for the Victorian Government to deliver commuter car parks on state governmentowned land.

“Council will seek confirmation of the new government’s intentions to proceed with funding these projects and highlight to both levels of government the importance of engaging local residents, traders and commuters in the planning and design of any new infrastructure.”

A spokesperson for Aston MP Alan Tudge said the change in government does not affect the $16 million of federal funding secured for station parking because it is locked into the budget.

“Although it is being federally funded, the state government is in charge of managing the construction and planning of the project,” the spokesperson said.

“Mr Tudge is unable to attend the event due to a prior commitment but has invited the Traders Association to meet with him to discuss their concerns.”

Monbulk MP James Merlino, whose electorate now covers the area after boundaries were redrawn ahead of the November 2022 state election, was contacted for comment.

The Ferntree Gully Village Traders Association will host a public meeting on Saturday June 18 in regards to the car park.

Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

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Football club’s frustration

By Parker McKenzie

Upper Ferntree Gully Football Club players in their current temporary facilities at Kings Park.

Picture: SUPPLIED

The club is currently storing their gear in shipping containers. Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE

will lose around $75,000 across the season as it struggles with player retention and languishes at the bottom of the Division 1 table.

At a Knox City Council meeting on Monday 23 May, Mr Bridle and the Vice-President of Upper Ferntree Gully Cricket Club Tom Roleff attended to ask questions relating to the works on the club rooms and whether the facilities were covered by insurance when the damage occurred.

After Mr Roleff asked whether the Cricket Club’s season would be impacted because of works not being completed by October — 16 months after the initial damage to the facilities — he was told an October completion date was “achievable” but not confirmed.

Knox City Council said in a statement mould was first identified at the facility in April 2021.

The club has used temporary marquees since the damage was discovered 11 months ago.

Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE

“While there were some initial delays due to Covid-19 restrictions, Council has been working proactively with the clubs since restrictions lifted to ascertain the extent of the problem and address it,” council said.

“This required specialist contractors to remove everything from the building and the building to be dried before extensive investigation works could be undertaken to determine the source and extent of the problem and identify options to remediate the building.

“Council has worked with the two clubs on their preferred options, to either stay at the facility and be provided with temporary facilities, or to be relocated to another Council facility while the building is being repaired.”

Knox City Council said floor and roof rehabilitation works are expected to be completed by the end of the year.

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A local footy club has been left frustrated after being unable to use their facilities for 11 months, while council is hoping to complete the repairs by the end of the year.

Upper Ferntree Gully Football Club, which plays out of Kings Park Reserve in Upper Ferntree Gully, is currently operating out of three large marquees and multiple shipping containers provided by Knox City Council after their rooms were deemed hazardous because of mould caused by a roof leak on 16 June 2021.

Vice President Craig Bridle said on Thursday 2 July the club was originally told a contractor would be appointed to complete the repairs in December 2021 but the council is now saying works are on track to begin in midJune.

“In May, they told us works were going to start the next week. It took us until last night to be told it’s now June. They’re not coming forward to us with information,” he said.

“This is extremely frustrating and disappointing. It’s embarrassing and it’s taken us going to the council to get a response to get that from them.”

The club was offered the use of a ground in Wantirna, however, did not expect the repairs to have taken as long as they have and were reluctant to leave their home.

Mr Bridle said average takings from the bar are down almost $1000 each home game, with their regular Thursday night meals after training also dropping in greatly needed revenue.

“I’m sure Council has plenty of stuff to do but you’ve got a facility used by us, the cricket club and the junior club and you can’t get it fixed in 11 months,” he said.

“It’s killing us and the morale. They’ve just dragged their heels.”

Another member of the Upper Ferntree Football Club committee estimated the club

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6 MAIL

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Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Honouring hidden vets

By Mikayla van Loon The Vietnam veterans storytelling performance, Forgotten Heroes, is four months away from coming to the live stage at Burrinja and those involved are immersing themselves in the stories to bring the show to life.

Program director and mastermind behind the project, Cath Russell started creating the songs for the live performance three years ago based on the stories shared with her at the time.

Now just months out from sharing the performance, Cath, actor Stephen Hall and singer Carl Pannuzzo have organised a series of roundtable discussions with Vietnam veterans, the next at Mount Evelyn RSL on 18 June.

As a performer, Carl said very much like acting, being able to immerse yourself in the story itself will be invaluable to the presentation.

“If I get a chance to be able to really listen and observe, perhaps ask questions, reflect, then I can also get a sense of getting out of myself a little bit,” he said.

“That enables me to think about not just the meaning of the song [but] the idea is, if I were really them, singing that song, I might have the voice and the capacity to express it where they may not but it’s their experience and their mind. Something which in reality, I have no ability to imagine.”

Carl said by hearing the experiences of Vietnam veterans, he hopes he can better communicate to the audience the powerful nature of what he has heard in the process.

“It’s the only way to get deeper and to tell the story in an even more nuanced way and to affect people on more micro levels. That’s the point of art, to disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed.

“There’s only so much that someone outside of that experience can recreate with their own imagination.”

This performance aims to remember the sacrifices of the men who served in Vietnam, something Carl said he hopes evokes a great sense of empathy when people “feel the sounds and the rhythm that illustrate the words.”

It’s those human emotions the team of

Carl Pannuzzo will be honouring the stories of Vietnam veterans by singing their experiences at the live performance of Forgotten Heroes.

Picture: SUPPLIED performers at the Dandenong Ranges Music Council want to inspire.

While understanding that for some, speaking about Vietnam could be traumatising, Forgotten Heroes is about giving Vietnam veterans the same respect and opportunity to share their stories as other veterans.

“If it’s the last chance that they can get to be seen or recognised, within all healing modalities, if you look into modern therapy, the idea to be acknowledged, is really tantamount to healing,” Carl said.

Seeing the community of younger veterans, particularly those who fought in Afghanistan, join and relate to those who fought in Vietnam, Cath said the similarities between them are uncanny.

“The name Forgotten Heroes is so potent in this generation as well,” she said.

As our Vietnam veterans grow older, Cath said the necessity to tell their stories now has never been more essential.

“Having worked with vets for a few years and seeing them get more frail, it makes this all the more important,” she said.

On a personal level, Carl said “it’s the closest that I can come to honouring them” and he is looking forward to not only hearing the experiences of those at Mount Evelyn RSL but also being the custodian of the stories while on stage at Burrinja.

The performance at Burrinja will be held on Saturday 24 September in the Lyrebird Room.

The Hills Walk Together with Indigenous reverend

By Parker McKenzie The Hills Walk Together Project and Tecoma Uniting Church will host an event to help Dandenong Ranges residents learn and listen to Indigenous experiences.

Creating-Connections - New Ways to Walk Together will feature a presentation by Reverend Canon Glenn Loughrey, a Wiradjuri man and Anglican Priest, and children’s activities led by Gunai Kurnai woman and First Nations Educator Emmy Webbers.

Rev. Canon Loughrey said he became involved when The Hills Walk Together founder Shakti McLaren contacted him to take part.

“The morning will just be an introduction to myself and some questions and answers. People can ask the questions that they really want to get answers to, which I may or may not be able to give them,” he said.

“In the afternoon I’m talking about coloniality and decoloniality, about how do we go about delinking ourselves from an underlying sense of coloniality, colonial thinking, perennial ways of being so that we can allow for other voices, other attitudes and other ideas.

“This particular group has local elders come and speak to it on a regular basis, they have really good connections with local elders, and they do things with them, there will be, as I understand it, elders there on the day.”

The Hills Reconciliation Group created the Hills Walk Together as their first project after forming in 2021. The group hopes to facilitate creative, compassionate activities and experiences to help develop a deeper sensitivity and understanding of First Nations peoples.

Rev. Canon Loughrey said the Dandenong Ranges is no different from anywhere else in Australia in terms of coloniality.

“It’s embedded in the systems that we all live in,” he said.

“We think we have one language, we have one source of education which comes out of Western Europe and the classics, and we have one economic system which comes out of the expansion out of Europe in the 15th century.”

Rev. Canon Loughrey, who was the first

The Hills Walk Together Project and Tecoma Uniting Church will host the event on 16 June.

Picture: AMANDA WRIGHT’S ART Aboriginal canon of St Paul Cathedral in Melbourne, said a common ground between his Indigenous spirituality is an understanding that there is something much bigger at play than our own individual self.

“The easy option would be to leave the church, but somehow I find myself in this place,” he said.

“I try and bridge the gap. It’s not always easy to do that.”

A welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony by Stacie Nich-Piper will be held after the morning event.

The event will be held at The Tecoma United Church, 1566 Burwood Highway Tecoma, on June 26 from 10am to 3pm.

The morning event at 10am is free and booking isn’t required but attendees should RSVP to office@tecomauc.org.au.

Bookings are required for the afternoon event at noon, with tickets costing $10.

They can be booked online at trybooking. com/events/landing?eid=905105&

Yarra Valley locals share stories to break social barriers

By Tyler Wright Storytellers with varied life experiences and backgrounds have started sharing their stories to help other community members feel seen and heard as part of the ‘Hidden Voices’ initiative throughout Lilydale.

Eastern Community Legal Centre has sourced storytellers from throughout the Yarra Ranges with help from organisations such as Anchor, Inspiro, Cire, Box Hill Institute and local council.

Martina Eaton, member of the LGBTQI+ community and a survivor of domestic violence, was involved in the first two sessions and was grateful to have the chance to share her story; at first interrupted, and then engaging with attendees.

“You don’t often hear about people in same sex relationships experiencing family violence…it doesn’t discriminate,” Martina said.

“It’s been really hearing for me to be able to be able to tell my story…my title is ‘I’m here, I’m queer and I’ve conquered my fear.”

There were five speakers at the first Hidden Voices event Lilydale Community House Martina attended on Tuesday 10 May, who had the chance to engage with community members about their life experiences.

“There are people who are carers, people who are volunteers and people who are living with disabilities, people who’ve experienced sexual assault, family violence and suicide… it’s a really good process for us to process our own stories,” Martina said. mailcommunity.com.au

Yarra Valley locals have been able to share their stories at local community hubs.

Shek Kho takes the role of carer for her adult son on the Autism spectrum, and although her son was born in Australia, has still struggled navigating the NDIS as a migrant from overseas.

“I went through a very stressful journey.

[Having] experienced that, I would like to support other carers and advocate and build awareness to a lot of carers,” Shek said.

“My intention in joining these Hidden Voices sessions is to build awareness to carers in

the community and also advocate for people with a disability.”

For Shek, caring for family members comes naturally, but it was at Yarra Ranges Regional Museum on 30 May that she first publicly shared information about her journey as a carer.

“It also gives me the confidence and acknowledge that I’m on the right track.”

The last Hidden Voices session will be held

Picture: SUPPLIED on Thursday 9 June at Lilydale Library starting at 1:00pm.

“A few carers, upon hearing about this project, have registered to come to the last one,” Shek said.

To register for the event, starting at 1:00pm, visit the Eastern Community Legal Centre website at https://www.eventbrite. com/e/eclc-hidden-voices-event-4-tickets310245481587?aff=odcleoeventsincollection& keep_tld=1 Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

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MAIL 7

STORM ANNIVERSARY Last year’s June storms wiped out power, felled thousands of trees and damaged homes - trauma that is still being felt as residents return to their homes and wait in temporary accommodation.

Here we tell the stories of community spirit, survival and reflect on the memory of 9 and 10 June 2021.

Still homeless a year on

By Mikayla van Loon It’s a Wednesday evening. The power keeps going on and off. It’s winter, so the house starts to become cold.

You go to the kitchen when there’s a long break in the power going on and off. Boil the kettle and make a cup of tea, before snuggling under a blanket in the lounge room.

“The next moment above me in my lounge, I heard the most almighty breaking, smashing and part of this massive big branch, like you wouldn’t believe, nearly a whole tree came down through my ceiling, through the tiles of the lounge room and was probably about a metre off the floor in the lounge,” Mount Evelyn resident Marlene Smith said.

“And then another big part of this massive tree hit the dining room behind me and my decking. It was like a whirlwind, it certainly was like a whirlwind in the lounge.

“It was so dark and cold and wet and the sound of it, I’ll never forget that sound and the coldness. Being on my own, I was just terrified.

I just stood there in shock. I’d never experienced anything like it.”

This is Marlene’s memory of 9 June, an evening that still rattles her almost a year later and probably always will. Living alone, Marlene said when panic set in, she didn’t know what to do and having called Triple Zero multiple times without getting through, her first thought was ‘it’s not safe in the house’.

“I went with my phone into the carport and hopped in my car and stayed there. What I can

The roof of Marlene Smith’s home was crushed by a very large tree branch, causing months of repairs.

Picture: SUPPLIED remember too was the crashing of the trees around me,” she said.

Attempting to call her son who lives in Mooroolbark, Marlene knew trees and power poles had fallen all along her street and beyond just by the noise.

“For my son to get to my place from Mooroolbark, he had to chainsaw parts of trees down on the road to get to my place in Mount Evelyn. He managed to get there and I was just so relieved.”

“He’s probably one of the bravest men I’ve ever come across, even though he’s my son, to try and get up there to stop some of the water coming into my home which was useless really

because he tried but it was just too dangerous for him.”

Marlene slept in her car that first night.

From there, she said her insurance company initially “made it very difficult for me”, it was only after her son contacted the ombudsman that she was finally given temporary accommodation in Ferntree Gully.

She has since been moved around three or four times to various temporary accommodation places until her house is rebuilt, something that is roughly still four or five months away from being complete.

“One evening you’re sitting there the next moment you’ve moved out of your home and

I won’t be back there for another four or so months if I’m lucky.

“Nothing’s in the house. It’s just been demolished and what was there has had to be removed because of the water damage and the mould and the destruction from the roof collapsing.”

Able to save some personal items and clothing, Marlene said at least 60 per cent of her belongings and furniture were ruined by the storms.

Although essentially starting from scratch, Marlene said she has to remain positive about moving back into her home, joking that perhaps it may be ready by 2024.

“We’ve just got to keep our hopes up and at the end of the day, we will eventually move back to our homes.

“It has been a struggle. It was survival that night but now it’s a struggle, just day to day trying to cope with everything. It’s just so overwhelming.”

Marlene remains wary of loud wind and trees, finding it hard to sleep sometimes when there’s a storm.

But even still, with those few dangerous trees now removed from her property, she said the final piece of the puzzle is moving back into her house.

“It was my safe haven until that night…I can’t wait to move back into my lovely little home. I took a lot of pride in it but the main thing is that I wasn’t severely hurt and nobody else was either.”

The Yarra Valley EV Bulk-Buy needs your sign up!

The Yarra Valley Community Power Hub in partnership with the Good Car Company, are bringing the Yarra Valley EV Bulk-Buy to our Community... we need your help!

The Electric Vehicle event will allow our community to test drive a series of electric vehicles, ask questions and also learn more about the benefits of EVs in our changing environment. The Bulk-buy will be offering the best deals possible on New Hyundai EV’s, New Polestar 2 EV’s, the ever-affordable imported Nissan Leaf and a variety of near new second hand EV’s sourced especially by The Good Car Company!

The Good Car Company is proud to partner with the Yarra Valley Community Power Hub for the Yarra Valley Electric Vehicle Bulk-Buy in May-June 2022. The Community Power Hub brings together six community renewable energy groups to join into this great bulk-buy campaign.

Local Groups include • Healesville CoRE - Yarra Ranges Council • Clean Energy Nillumbik (CEN) - Nillumbik Shire Council • Yarra Glenergy - Yarra Ranges Council • Dandenong Ranges Renewable Energy Association (DRREA) Yarra Ranges Council & Cardinia Shire Council • Bunyip Renewable Action Group (BRAG) - Cardinia Shire Council • Eastern Climate Action Melbourne (ECAM) - Whitehorse City Council

This bulk buy and event will only work if we all work together. Will you join us to help create the change we need to help our climate?

If you are interested in receiving updates and attending events, please let us know by registering your interest at https://www.goodcar.co/healesville-0. We need to get over 300 Expressions of Interest for the campaign to proceed!

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Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

mailcommunity.com.au

STORM ANNIVERSARY

Carnage after the storm

By Tyler Wright As last year’s June storm came around, Monbulk local Leharna Black’s home was saved from damage but over a month later her life was unexpectedly turned upside down.

In July, a nearby Mountain Ash tree fell on her house, breaking through the top of the roof cavity narrowly missing the floor and Leharna underneath.

It’s believed the tree was unstable due to the storms the month prior and 7:30pm on Tuesday 27 July is a point in time Leharna Black said she will never forget.

Taken to hospital, the Monbulk resident suffered bruising and was released not long after admission.

“Not many people walk away from having a tree fall on them; so It’s quite extraordinary that I survived that,” Ms Black said.

While the roof caved in and Ms Black was injured by felled branches, she said the uphill side of Mount Dandenong’s eastern escarpment held the tree and prevented direct impact.

If the trauma of the event was not enough, Leharna was faced with the rebuild and finding accommodation.

“I’m studying psychology, and I had to drop one of my subjects. That’s all I had; one subject and house repairs. I didn’t have any social life, I didn’t have any energy left,” Leharna said.

“The house probably took up four to six hours a day for close to seven or eight months; like a full time job, and that’s why I got my house repaired. But if you work and you have children, you don’t have time to spend that sort of effort on dealing with all the agencies that you need to deal with to get your house repaired.”

Ms Black said her house was declared a total loss by her insurance company, meaning she was written a cheque for the total sum insured and was able to decide how she used the funds.

“I could repair my house, but it meant that I had to do the work - I had to find a builder, I had to deal with surveyors and draftsmen and engineers, I had to establish if the house was repairable, I had to get the house made safe…

“I felt like bait in a pool full of sharks and months.”

After successfully lobbying for a planning permit exemption to start the rebuild process, Leharna then obtained the building permit at the end of September with building commencing in the middle of October and finishing on 18 February.

“My house wasn’t completely demolished, but most of the internal walls had to be replaced, the roof had to be replaced, all the ceilings had to be replaced...the bathroom and the laundry had to be rebuilt,” Leharna said.

Leharna Black returned to live in her home in March. She is pictured sitting on part of the tree that went through her roof. 284084 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS The builder involved did not have any other jobs at the time.

“That just shows you how much work is involved in repairing a house,” Leharna said.

Some members of the Dandenong Ranges community who were victims of the storms are still yet to see their house rebuilt after 12 months, and forced to face the question of what their next step will be.

While Ms Black, with a background in corporate work, has experience dealing with bureaucracy - she said others in the community were overwhelmed with the complex nature of finance companies and insurance companies alongside local and state governments.

“I know one woman that collapsed in the bank, [with] the stress of it,” Ms Black said.

“I even had my insurance company…tell me that with the Northern Rivers issues, that was going to delay everything even more because of course all of those people are in higher need than people down here - I thought that was appalling,” the Monbulk local said.

A spokesperson for the Insurance Council of Australia said as of May 2022, more than 34,000 claims have been made in the areas of Gippsland and the Yarra Ranges, with an estimated insurance loss value of $302.9 million.

“Repairs and rebuilds to property have been impacted in the area by the complex nature of the property damage, the accessibility of properties and the difficult terrain many properties are located and surrounded by,” the ICA spokesperson said.

“Adding to the complex local conditions,

Leharna Black’s Monbulk home was severely damaged in on 27 July last year after the June storm event.

Australia has been and continues to be affected by labour, trades, and building supply shortages which continue to impact community recovery in both the insurance sector as well as infrastructure repairs and rebuilds.”

Last June, the State Government provided payments of $1,680 per week to households

that were without power following the catastrophic storms, but Ms Black said priorities now need to shift.

“What people really need is their houses repaired, what they really need is help dealing with the systems and the processes that are overwhelming them,” Ms Black said.

Mt Dandenong Preschool still placed at temporary site

By Tyler Wright Staff at Mount Dandenong Preschool are still waiting for the reopening of their old site as the structure remains un repaired almost 12 months after the June storm that deemed the building inaccessible.

After the property on Mount Dandenong Tourist Road was condemned because of the damage to the structure from the tree and asbestos, staff and children have been based at Olinda Primary School and said they have not received a clear path forward.

Staff said while the back of the building was damaged after the storms, the front of the premises was still accessible but they were not able to salvage materials - and the community is still in the process of grieving one year on.

“I’m almost angry that it’s [still] in that space,” Yarra Ranges Kinders Senior Operation Manager Marta Pegoiani said.

“There’s no way that we can forget it, I still see tarp and trees on the road when I drive past.” mailcommunity.com.au

Catherine Yeaman, Victoria Clarke, and Jo Dixon, early childhood Teacher and Educators at Mount Dandenong Preschool, are witnessing first hand the impact the aftermath of the storms had on the children who attend their kindergarten.

“We just want our kindergarten to be rebuilt…to build a sense of community,” VIctoria said.

The Educators said they have been reminding locals they are still operating, albeit out of a different premises - but people were not aware of this.

“The belonging is in [the] relationships, and that’s really the essence of the kindergarten,” Catherine said.

CEO of Yarra Ranges Kinders, Gaby Thomson, said the Mount Dandenong Preschool’s current site at Olinda Primary School is only temporary, but does not know how long the staff and children will remain there.

“Even if it was cleared away, they could start to feel like they could start again; and they worry about the impacts on the kids,” Gaby said.

Staff at Mount Dandenong Preschool are still waiting to hear if they will see their old building recovered.

Picture: SUPPLIED Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

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MAIL 9

STORM ANNIVERSARY

Ben Owen in front of his home which was crushed by a tree in October Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS 2021. 256091

Storm clean up efforts by the community occurred within days. 240665 Pictures: SHELBY BROOKS

Workers begin the clean up. 240665

Storm trauma still strong

By Shelby Brooks The hills community is still processing the trauma of last year’s severe storm events, Emerald SES unit controller said.

“When we have high winds those heavily impacted get nervous,” Ben Owen said.

Mr Owen was one of hundreds of volunteers who spent the night of Wednesday 9 June cutting through the carnage of fallen trees in the Dandenong Ranges to respond to the 438 calls for help.

Southerly and south-easterly winds gusting more than 100km/h lashed the area that night, cutting power and creating mass destruction to hundreds of homes.

“It’s the worst I’ve seen and I’ve been here playing this game for the last 17 years,” Mr Owen said at the time.

“Most of those calls we couldn’t even get to. We were cutting our way up roads trying to get to houses... we had police and ambulance stuck on the side of the roads with trees either side of them.”

After 8pm, rescue calls started to come into the base, though phone reception was patchy.

“They were threat to life calls, people trapped in their houses mainly in Olinda,” Mr Owen said.

“But there were trees on the roads everywhere. It was near on impossible to get to there.”

At 10pm, one of the SES Emerald’s response cars was crushed by a falling tree, the photos sending shockwaves through the community when they realised how volunteers had been so close to a fatal accident.

“We had a bit of radio coverage and I got a message through to say ’did you hear about the vehicle being crushed?’,” Ben recalled.

He recreated the moment he radioed back,

Ben Owen speaking at a press conference after the storms. 240894 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS gasping and clutching his chest.

“I was like ’Are the members okay?’ Because that’s all I cared about,” he said.

“The crew heard cracking in the dark and didn’t know where to run but I guess they ran in the right direction because they’re alive and well.”

Hearing the members were ok only offered a moment of relief before members forged on with the task at hand.

“We still have a job to do. Those members ended up rescuing a man who had fallen from his veranda underneath his house. They carried him out to the road to the ambulance, which was quite an ordeal with trees falling down around them,” Mr Owen said.

“They saved his life effectively.”

Those four members who had the near brush with death ended up spending the night on the floor of the Lilydale SES unit, unable to contact their families to tell them they were safe.

Mr Owen said the unit received 800 calls for help, but estimates there were even more jobs completed that weren’t called in.

“That night was out of the box,” Mr Owen said.

“And the next five days were full on.

“The level of damage up on the hill had never been seen before. We just went one tree at a time.”

Mr Owen said the Emerald CFA captain had referred to the night as the scariest he’d experienced, even scarier than Black Saturday.

“That puts it into context that someone who’s fought roaring fires found the damage of the storm more horrendous and risky,” he said.

A second freak storm occurred in October 2021, which crushed Mr Owen’s family home, again leaving hundreds without power for weeks.

His Cockatoo home was crushed by a tree around 6.30am on Friday 29 October.

Tony and Ian making a start on the tree. 255933 Ben’s wife and daughters were trapped inside but were fortunately unharmed.

“The tree landed where I was standing 10 minutes earlier,” Mr Owen said.

“My wife called to say a tree had fallen on the house. She was trapped in the bedroom.

“I drove back and ran down to where my daughters were bunkered in together for the night and they had a smashed window. So they and the greyhound crawled through the window and into my arms.”

A tree had penetrated the wall less than a metre above the girl’s heads.

“The dog is still very traumatised by loud bangs and windy days, which we all will be to some extent for a period of time,” Mr Owen said.

“Most of the time I’m ok but the other night a pine tree had dropped some branches onto the road and it got me spooked. It was all brought back by the sappy smell.”

First responders prepare for the worst, hope for best

By Shelby Brooks Despite the storm being labelled a “freak weather event”, Emerald SES unit controller Ben Owen is urging the community to be prepared this winter season.

“Last year was a freak weather event which could happen again, but it’s not going to be an annual thing,” Mr Owen said.

“I think the key thing is for people to plan that they may not have power and may not have telecommunications.

“If they can plan for the worse and hope for the best that’s important.”

Mr Owen is recommending for everyone to have an emergency kit ready to go, filled with things like scripts, batteries and pet food.

“Also charging up your rechargeable batteries and if you have a generator, make sure it’s serviced and ready to run and you know how to run it in a safe place not under the house.”

Last year, emergency services and the community struggled to deal with communication during the storm.

“We’re putting plans in placed based on 10 MAIL

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Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

Emerald SES member Neil Fisher, Emerald SES unit controller Ben Owen and Emerald SES member Maree Dunn 262367 Picture: SHELBY BROOKS

Emerald SES volunteers. 240894 last year when telecommunications, internet and data went down and working out how we can respond in that situation,” Mr Owen said.

“But this year we’ve got to plan for our normal storms which could mean you could lose power for a couple of days, you could have your main arterial blocked with a tree

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS on the road or you could get a few houses damaged or destroyed by a tree.”

Emerald’s SES volunteers have been training in preparation for this year’s winter season and ensuring vehicles and equipment are ready should another severe weather event occur, Mr Owen said.

“We’re always looking for funds, we’ve got

a Give Now page if people want to make a financial contribution,” he said.

“We’re looking for new volunteers all the time. We always need more daytime responders and people who can do afternoons, evenings and weekends.

“For people who aren’t up for getting on a truck, that’s fine, we’re always looking for admin like roles or even people who may be happy to cook a meal when we’re busy.”

You can donate at: givenow.com.au/emeraldses mailcommunity.com.au

STORM ANNIVERSARY

A large gumtree fell straight through the middle of Gary and Karen’s house during the storms last June.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

“I just heard this crack”

By Mikayla van Loon

mailcommunity.com.au

The exposed roof, Gary and Karen said allowed them to see the night sky when they were leaving their house. married. We’ve got all these grandkids and everything’s rosy and then all of a sudden, bang.

One tree and it’s all gone.

“But in a way, I suppose we’re lucky. We had insurance. We’ve had good neighbours and lucky we have a sensational family. So that’s where we’ve been lucky.”

Those nine months of being shifted from house to house, Gary said “it was really challenging” mainly because they felt like gypsies.

“The hardest thing I think for us was that none of the possessions where you’re living are yours. Nothing’s yours except a suitcase full of clothes you’ve got,” he said.

Now back in their house, although 80 per cent of their belongings had to be replaced, the keepsakes and mementos were saved making home feel like home again.

Having had all the dangerous trees removed from their property, Gary and Karen said they no longer fear a tree falling on their house but when walking through nearby parkland, they can’t help but notice the state of some of the trees.

“You’re more vigilant at looking at your environment. We worry more about the people around us and the environment,” he said.

“Who knows what the climate is going to do and what is going to happen here with the environment but you just don’t wish it on anybody else.”

12553094-SG23-22

With the power blacking out at 10.30pm, Montrose residents Gary and Karen Lee decided to take themselves to bed, little did they know five hours later they would wake to the sound of a tree falling through the centre of their house.

“It was about 20 past three in the morning, and I just heard this crack. I jumped out of bed to have a look and all I was worried about was the animals. Everything was in darkness,” Karen said.

“All you could see was just this tree sitting on top of our roof and really there was no roof at all, it was just exposed to the sky.”

Wanting to protect their cars, Gary and Karen moved them out onto the street, free from trees and sat there not knowing what to do next.

“We sat in my car, which is a Hilux ute and it was actually rocking with the wind. It was that eerie because of the darkness, no lights on anywhere obviously and it was unbelievable the amount of strength the wind had,” Gary said.

Being in the MFB for 10 years, Gary said his training kicked in but for Karen, the panic had her extremely worried and normally in any situation where they needed help, she would call her sister.

“I was panicking too much thinking maybe they can’t come here because it’s dangerous for them to drive,” she said.

“Gary had to keep telling me ‘it’s ok. We’re ok. We’re in the car, there’s no trees around us,’ because I was thinking that another tree would fall down on top of our car.”

Karen’s sister and brother-in-law drove as far as they could to meet her but Gary stayed behind having called the SES for help. By 7am, he decided to leave their Stradbroke Road home, having not been able to get assistance.

Nine months later, Gary and Karen were able to move back into their home on 11 March after it was repaired from the four tonne tree that fell right through the middle.

The design of Gary and Karen’s house is a long, ranch style home, with a hallway separating bedrooms on one side and bathroom on the other.

“If that tree was three feet to the right, it would have landed on our bed…And that’s the difference between now and we’re not here,” Gary said.

“You’re living on cloud nine. We’re happily

Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

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MAIL 11

STORM ANNIVERSARY

Little improvements made

By Parker McKenzie One year on, residents in the Dandenong Ranges are struggling to point out improvements to the vital infrastructure which failed them during the devastating June 2021 storm event.

Connecting Victoria, the Victorian Government’s $550 million program to fast track better mobile coverage and broadband access throughout the state, has yet to announce any projects to tackle the mobile black spots, poor internet coverage and telecommunications issues plaguing the region.

Sassafras resident Peter Brennan collaborated with Connecting Victoria to gather crowd-sourced data on black spots and interview businesses and locals. He has campaigned for years for better connectivity and action on telecommunications for the hills community since the Black Saturday bushfires in 2009.

Mr Brennan said 12 months on from the storms, he is struggling to find out what has changed and what work has been done to secure vital infrastructure.

“The reality is that both storms and bushfires are part of our future reality,” Mr Brennan said.

“In terms of basic infrastructure, do we have a more secure electricity system? That’s debatable. Have we got a more resilient telecommunications system?”

Monbulk MP and Deputy Premier James Merlino was asked what has been done to make telecommunications and electricity in the region more resilient, and why no projects have been announced through the Connecting Victoria program for the Dandenong Ranges. His office did not respond by deadline.

A spokesperson for the Federal Department of Infrastructure said three Telstra mobile base stations in the area were commissioned in 2019 and 2021.

“These base stations were co-funded through the Mobile Black Spot Program and have all been equipped with at least 12 hours of battery backup,” the spokesperson said.

“To improve Australia’s disaster readiness, the Australian Government has committed to investing up to $200 million per year on disaster prevention and resilience, including improvements to telecommunications infrastructure. This funding will provide opportunities for additional resilience work to be undertaken.”

All three mobile base stations were funded and started construction before the June 2021 storm event.

The National Recovery and Resilience

A concrete power pole split in two during the June 2021 storm event.

Agency, formed in May 2021 in response to the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements, awarded Yarra Ranges Council $10 million for the Resilient Yarra Ranges Project in April 2022.

The project includes a joint venture from Monash University and Yarra Ranges Council to assess “the feasibility for a resilient microgrid across essential buildings in Monbulk” and upgrade community buildings owned by council with “generator pug-in point and/or solar power capabilities”.

On March 29, Yarra Ranges Council called for mobile connectivity, NBN and broadband strength and emergency resilience issues to be addressed during the 2022 federal election.

Mayor Jim Child said residents in the region rely on telecommunications to operate during daily life and in emergency situations.

“We had mobile towers that failed because they weren’t powered, we had telephone exchanges that failed because they weren’t powered,” he said.

“We’ve found out that probably 98 per cent

of our communities and people rely on communications through telecommunications to actually get the information that they need in times of disaster.”

A survey of 24,000 sites across the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges found around 25 per cent of them were experiencing telecommunications difficulties. A council storm survey found internet and power outages have increased by 31 and 41 per cent respectively since June 2021.

Connecting Victoria’s own connectivity report, released on 1 February 2022, showed nearby municipalities had received funded projects despite having lower rates of broadband and connectivity issues compared to the Dandenong Ranges.

Mr Brennan said there is currently a lack of coherency and strategic alignment in government needed to solve issues in the region.

“Not just make statements but to actually do the things that need to be done in the community right now,” he said.

“I don’t see a willingness on behalf of our

Picture: ON FILE local politicians, possibly with the exception of Cathrine Burnett-Wake in the Victorian Senate, who’s asking the question of what has been done, where are all these reports, what are the findings?”

Ms Burnett-Wake, who is an MP for Eastern Victoria, said in a statement Mr Brennan had done a marvellous job collecting on the ground data about telecommunications issues in the Dandenong Ranges but the area does not appear to be on the government’s current map of areas to prioritise.

“This is disappointing because in the Dandenongs every day without adequate connectivity is another day of risk,” she said.

“A reliable network should be a priority, particularly given the lessons of last year’s storm and the fact this area is prone to extreme weather events. I will continue to raise our telecommunication issues in Parliament.”

Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford, who released the Connecting Victoria report, was contacted for comment.

Event to share from practitioner’s disaster experience

By Tyler Wright A lived experience community development practitioner will be speaking at Olinda Community House on Friday 10 June as part of the community’s storm recovery.

Michelle Dunscombe, community resilience and recovery expert, facilitated Kinglake community members to harness their own skills and tools they needed to rebuild after Black Saturday, and will impart her knowledge as the Dandenong Ranges commemorates one year since the June storms.

“I went to a training with her and it was so inspiring, she was saying that within the community of Kinglake, they sat down and realised they had everything they needed to rebuild,” Krystal Bassett, Community Development Lead at Olinda Community House said.

“The only positive thing to come out of the storm is the fact that the community has come together, and we’ve been supporting each other. For this to continue and to further solidify our knowledge, we’re having Michelle come in to tell us her experience and 12 MAIL

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Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

how we can do that together.”

“Every community member has a skill or idea to input and everyone’s voice is important.”

Leading up to the storm anniversary, Yarra Ranges Council allocated a total pool of $6000 for existing not-for-profit community groups and small community organisations located in storm impacted Yarra Ranges communities to host free small events/ activities for storm impacted community members between Friday 27 May and Friday 24 June.

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

“I’m looking forward to hearing about Michelle’s experience and for community members to come along to talk about how we can support each other and plan the steps to take before the next emergency,” Hills Creative Alliance secretary Liz Millman said.

Those interested can call 97511264 or visit bit.ly/RecoveryOlinda to register for the free event which will take place from 10:00am to 12:00pm.

Olinda Community House will be holding a talk this Friday as part of the one year Dandenong Ranges storm anniversary.

Picture: ON FILE mailcommunity.com.au

STORM ANNIVERSARY

Sherbrooke Falls has now re-opened to visitors after storm recovery works.

Picture: PARKS VICTORIA

The trails were closed because of blockages and hazards.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Falls open after damage

By Parker McKenzie Parks Victoria has announced the walking tracks at Sherbrooke Falls are now open to visitors following storm recovery works.

“The Dandenongs were among the hardest hit regions when storms struck across Victoria last year,” Parks Victoria said in an online statement.

“Fallen trees caused significant damage to buildings, trails, gardens and reserves, and Park Rangers have continued to make solid progress checking and clearing sites as part of make-safe works.”

Sherbrooke Falls was impacted by the weather event with falling trees and branches blocking sections of the trail causing it to be closed to the public.

Acting District Manager said it was pleasing all the trails leading to Sherbrooke Falls are now open.

“The recovery task has been challenging and quite labour-intensive given the scale of damage and the remote nature of track extending for several kilometres into the bush,” she said.

“We are pleased to say that all trails leading to Sherbooke Falls are now open and we look

forward to welcoming hikers, visitors and families back to this popular destination.”

From 1 to 4 June, recovery works at the 1000 Steps and Lyrebird Track in Ferntree Gully were also undertaken.

In a Facebook post, Parks Victoria said the 1000 Steps will remain closed for insurable repairs.

“Works will include the treatment of hazardous trees and hangers, as well as clearing of debris from the track.” Parks Victoria said.

“Several trees have been identified as a safety concern and will be removed.”

The popular hiking and walking destination has been closed since the 2021 June storm event. Lyrebird Track was re-opened earlier this year.

“Work crews and heavy machinery will be working in areas, hence the restrictive access to the area during works,” Parks Victoria said.

“Biodiversity and cultural heritage assessments have been undertaken to ensure important areas and values are protected.”

For more information on park closures, visit www.parks.vic.gov.au/get-into-nature/safetyin-nature/changed-conditions-and-closures

FOOTY TICKETS

We have Medallion Club tickets to selected MCG & Marvel games up for grabs - Scan to enter OR visit: starcommunity.com.au/competitions 12552248-HC23-22

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Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

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MAIL 13

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Doco hits screens

By Tyler Wright A heroic cultural and political figure who found a base in Belgrave is being remembered in a documentary screening at the Cameo Cinemas.

Bill Onus revived Indigenous Australian culture in the 1940s and ignited a civil rights movement that would change the course of history; and his grandson, Tiriki Onus, has collated documentation of his life to form a detective story and contemporary opera for public viewing.

“It really all just started with a chance discovery in the National Film and Sound archives where a now colleague and friend of mine, Alex Morgan, was presented with film with no label on it, no identifying documentation, just aborigines in the community. The sound was missing.

And he had a long career in film, particularly in digital film, and was asked if he could identify and establish the provenance,” Tiriki said.

It was Alex Morgan who alerted Tiriki to the fact his grandfather was the ‘first Aboriginal filmmaker’ and discovered footage the Onus grandson thought was lost decades ago in a caravan fire.

“It was 12 years that separated us, Bill died in 1968 and I wasn’t born until 1980; but stories of Bill had always been told again and again.

And whenever I went out to events and things it’d be old Aunties that would want to pull me inside and tell me how much I look like him,” the director said.

“We have these mythologies in our families that we tell usually just for us and our families, and it’s about those family members that are no longer here and the extraordinary things that your great aunt did or your grandfather did… I always felt very close to Bill but always had this yearning, this desire to know more.”

On the film sourced from the film and sound archives, Tiriki saw his great uncle Jimmy Onus and grandfather Bill joined by other black activists from mid 20th century Australia.

“People like Marge Tucker and Joyce Johnson, pastor Doug Nicholls… I saw a very different narrative than anything else I’d ever been presented with from the 40s,” Tiriki said.

“Here you had people [living] in open defiance… and were using their cunning to hide all of that work in plain sight by putting it on stages, and performing in front of thousands.”

Upon being in awe of this footage, Tiriki and Alex sought to tell the history of Bill Onus and his contemporaries, not limited to the push for

Andy White and Kavisha Mazzella will be performing at the Gem Theatre in Emerald on Friday 17 June.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Solstice gig

By Tyler Wright

Bill Onus, who was major figure in the 1967 referendum, also found a home in Belgrave.

Picture: FAIRFAX the vote yes campaign and subsequent referendum in 1967. The story also captures Kulin country in the Dandenong Ranges, where Bill employed both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in his shop.

“We talk to people who had those intimate memories of Bill themselves - people like

Aunty Fay Carter tattoo, or national treasures like Uncle Jack Charles as he recounts being taken from the boy’s home on a bus out to Belgrave to watch Bill throw boomerangs out on Monbulk Road,” Tiriki said.

To learn more about ‘Ablaze,’ visit https:// www.cameocinemas.com.au/movies/ablaze

A pre-Winter Solstice evening of enchanting music is coming to Emerald on Friday 17 June.

Andy White, Belgrave local and Belfast-born singer-songwriter, will support Kavisha Mazzella, Australian composer, singer-songwriter, folklorist and choir leader at the Gem Theatre.

Kavisha, who has won an ARIA Award for Best World Music Album, draws Mediterranean, gypsy and Celtic influences.

Andy White released in 1995 released an album, Altitude with Tim Finn (Split Enz) and Liam Ó Maonlaí (Hothouse Flowers), who recorded as ALT. Andy said he is looking forward to playing close to home.

“I ended up producing a record of Kavisha’s which is called Riturnella... which I recorded here in my studio...I’m sure she’ll be playing songs from it,” Andy said.

“It’s a really beautiful record of updated versions of very ancient Italian folk songs, but they’re absolutely exciting and romantic and dramatic.”

“Since I came across from Ireland, I’ve written and recorded so many songs and albums, and produced albums here; so I’m very drawn to it and I think [the Dandenong Ranges] is a really creative place, and I’ve taken the recordings and albums all around the world, and they started off here. So it’s a special place for me.”

The Gem Theatre is located at 19 Kilvington Dr, Emerald VIC 3782, and the event will start at 8:00pm.

Tickets are available from Eventbrite.

The event has been organised by Graham Beal (and colleagues), a long time presenter at Community Radio 3MDR.

Sherbrooke Art Society celebrates successful exhibition The Sherbrooke Art Society will host a closing ceremony for the Streeton Roberts and McCubbin Art Awards on Saturday 25 June, after a successful exhibition featuring 157 pieces from 72 artists.

Artwork from across Victoria, Tasmania and New South Wales was displayed at the Sherbrooke Art Gallery, with Emerald local Wendy Lindrea winning the Arthur Streeton Award.

Her painting Secluded Jetty was sold on the opening weekend, with Ms Lindrea being awarded the $1000 prize.

Claude Ciccone won the Tom Roberts Award and the $1000 Prize for his portrait titled Yuri, and Glenn Hoyle won the Frederick McCubbin Award for his painting the Dancing Horse.

The closing ceremony will feature a talk on Tom Roberts and his home in Kallista called Talisman. Tickets are $15 and include morning tea. The ceremony will commence at 2pm at the Art Gallery, located at 62 Monbulk Road Belgrave.

Arthur Streeton Award winner Wendy Lindrea with judge Vicki Sullivan at the Sherbrooke Art Gallery.

Pictures: SUPPLIED Wendy Lindrea’s Secluded Jetty.

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John Duncan Firth’s Reflections upon Tom Roberts, painted the week the exhibition opened. mailcommunity.com.au

YOUR COUNCIL UPDATE

Mayor’s message -----Welcome to June! What a fantastic few weeks we have had in the run up to this mayor’s message.

I had the great pleasure of being able to chair the Annual Volunteer Reception at the Cardinia Cultural Centre during National Volunteer Week. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate with our local volunteers - your efforts do not go unnoticed and you are a major part of what makes Cardinia Shire the wonderful place that it is. Read on to hear more about the evening.

I would also like to offer my sincere thanks to everyone that attended the National Reconciliation Week flag raising ceremony at the Civic Centre. It was a true representation of Cardinia Shire’s commitment to reconciliation.

Congratulations to Tim Ahern – this year’s 2022 Stan Henwood Award recipient!

I encourage all residents to head online to Council’s website and take a look at the many ways in which you can have your say, get involved, get active and stay connected.

As June is just beginning, your copy of Connect Winter Edition should be reaching your letterboxes soon!

Disability Strategy and Action Plan launched

Join us for a free community event to recognise World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), a day to raise awareness and knowledge of elder abuse and the various ways it can affect the community. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day brings together senior citizens, caregivers, and local government to combat elder abuse.

We have officially launched our new Access and Inclusion Disability Strategy and Action Plan, which will set out what Council will do to make our workplace, services, programs and community more accessible to people with disability.

The plan was officially launched at an event at Cardinia Life, which featured a wheelchair AFL game between Hawthorn and Richmond which saw the Hawks win by one point.

The new plan was developed based on extensive feedback from the community, disability sector service providers, advocates, and organisations.

Tim has been volunteering in the community since 1965 and dedicated his time with a variety of community groups. Tim is highly regarded by his peers and has also been awarded the Rotary Club of Pakenham Paul Harris Medal in 2011 and the Paul Harris Fellow Sapphire Pin in 2018 for ongoing service to Rotary and the community. www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/stanhenwood

Active Cardinia: Have your say!

Jump online to see current opportunities to have your say on Council’s projects. This month we encourage you to get involved in our consultation on the Active Cardinia Strategy.

Share your thoughts and feedback with us to help shape the future of sport and active recreation in your community.

Wednesday 15 June 2022, 10-11.30am.

Cardinia Cultural Centre, Pakenham.

The event will also include a complimentary morning tea. www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/elderabuse

The Stan Henwood Award honours lifetime achievements in community service and volunteering, and this year was awarded to Tim Ahern.

Tim received his award at the annual volunteer reception at the Cardinia Cultural Centre during National Volunteer Week.

The volunteer reception is an opportunity to celebrate with our local volunteers and formally acknowledge their contributions to our community.

Cr Jeff Springfield Cardinia Shire Mayor

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Your 2022 Stan Henwood Award winner

www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/accessandinclusion

www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay

Connect magazine goes digital

Furry friends

Sign up for our new Connect e-newsletter. Visit: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/enewsletters

Get online help with your pet and animal queries.

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

Hard waste collections

Kinder registrations

It’s easy to book a hard waste collection online.

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

Time is running out to register for first-round 2023 kinder offers.

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

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

Cardinia Shire Council Phone: 1300 787 624

Web: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au

Email: mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Translated resources: Cardinia Shire Council: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/translate Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS): 131 450 (ask for 1300 787 624) 12552730-JC23-22

mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

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MAIL 15

MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Foot and leg pain relief With foot, knee and leg pain, injuries and arthritis being so prevalent yet so difficult to treat successfully, it’s comforting to know that world class experts are just around the corner.

The practitioners at Foot and Leg Pain Clinics, one of Australia’s leading Musculoskeletal Podiatry practices, have been assisting Victorians with pain, injuries and degenerative concerns for the past 25 years. Renowned for their successful treatments, the clinics’ services are sought from far and wide. They’ve even been the chosen Podiatrist’s for some of the world’s best athletes, including seven of the world’s

No.1 tennis players, PGA Golfers, and Olympic gold medallists.

Now with clinics located in Ringwood and Doncaster East, Foot and Leg Pain Clinics can better serve residents of the eastern suburbs and Dandenong Ranges.

Musculoskeletal Podiatrist, Dr. David Kavanagh, who heads the Ringwood and Doncaster East clinics says, “We’re able to bring 25 years of expertise to local areas, enabling people to access world class treatment close to home.

We’re able achieve consistent, successful and long-term outcomes for patients because we

combine our extensive experience with the very latest medical research and treatments.

We also understand that to achieve long-term healing we need to find and address the cause and contributing factors of pain and concerns and not just treat the symptoms. If you don’t know the cause or factors contributing to pain or injury, you can’t intervene appropriately and the body will be unable heal or continue to re-injure itself.”

So if you suffer from: Foot, heel or ankle pain; Plantar Fasciitis; Achilles concerns; Shin pain; Knee conditions; Injuries; Arthritis; or have children with growth or development concerns, it’s comforting to know expert help is available and just around the corner.

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mailcommunity.com.au

MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Support local optometrist Paul and Danni at Mountain Gate Eyecare.

Dr John Gyorki Belgrave Surgi Centre Shop 1 / 1651 Burwood Hwy Belgrave Enter via Ramp/Walkway toward the upper carpark

Serving the community since 1986 General Practice: Specialising in • Offering Full Body Surgical Office Procedures: Skin Checks • Removal Of Skin Lesions • Health Assessment & Skin Cancers • Management Plans • Upper Eyelid Reduction • Practice Nurse • Vasectomy • Onsite Pathology • Nail Surgery Collection • Removal Of Benign Anal • Immunisations Conditions-Hemorrhoids/ Fissures/Fistulae NEW PATIENTS WELCOME

Danni helping a customer. 270917 Mountain Gate Eyecare optometrist Edward has high expertise and is therapeutically endorsed, allowing a more thorough consultation enabling him to treat and diagnose a wide range of eye conditions, such as glaucoma, dry eyes, and cataracts just to name a few.

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

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

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

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

In their practice they have become familiar with each individual patient, in order to customise eye exams and treatment options, always ensuring every visit is welcomed with a vibrant, warm, positive experience.

All their frames are hand selected from high fashion frames to a range of products to cater for all budgets. All frames including fashion frames are on 50% discount until end of June.

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

Mountain Gate Eyecare onsite lab uniquely offers faster returns for urgent spectacles and are there to help with any on the spot repairs.

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

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

Their optometrist offers a full range of eye health services, all with personalised attention to maximise your vision and health of your eyes.

BULK BILLING IS AVAILABLE TO PATIENTS WHO HAVE ESTABLISHED ON-GOING CARE AND HOLD A FULL PENSION OR VETERANS, AFFAIRS CARD ONLY To book an appointment, call 9754 7555

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Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

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MAIL 17

NEWS

New owners detail plans

By Parker McKenzie The new owners of Burnham Beeches have held a public consultation session while outlining their plans for the historic Sherbrooke mansion.

On Sunday 29 May, Trennery Consortium, who completed the purchase of the property from chef Shannon Bennett on 22 May, invited members of the community to meet the new owners and have their say on the future of Burnham Beeches.

The consultation featured a Welcome to Country and a speech from the family of Alfred Nicholas, the sales magnate who commissioned the building of the mansion.

Trenerry Director Robert DiCintio said when the opportunity to purchase the property presented itself, they knew they needed to make it happen.

“We know there’s a really strong community sentiment around Burnham Beeches and we want to work with Council and the community together with Heritage Victoria and Parks Victoria to ensure this is a place to be enjoyed for generations to come,” he said.

“There’s a lot to work through even in this initial stage, and years of work ahead. We are both respectful and excited, if not somewhat

The new owners of Burnham Beeches held a community consultation session on Sunday 29 May. Picture: ON FILE daunted, by the journey ahead but I believe with the support of Burnham’s passionate stakeholders together with our proven track

record, we can see it operating in some capacity later this year.”

The three-storey mansion was completed

in 1933 and features an Art Deco Streamline Moderne style and has previously been used as a children’s hospital during World War II, a research facility and as a small hotel.

The consortium, which consists of Victor Smorgen Group, The Kanat Group and Trenerry Property, plans to restore several of the heritage buildings on the 56-acre site including the Alfred Nicholas heritage museum.

Village Well Managing Director Gilbert Rochecouste, the placemaking agency appointed to assist on the Burnham Beeches acquisition, said Burnham Beeches is truly a one-time oneplace offering.

“We are pleased to be embarking on this regenerative journey with the local community and to be working on such a significant and unique site which is both locally loved and globally distinctive.” he said.

The Trennery Consortium said their immediate priority is to work with Heritage Victoria and Council on several building orders that need to be immediately addressed across the site. To do so, they have appointed Hamilton Marino to complete the works.

The sale included a permit for a 400 person hotel with dining, a 140 seat restaurant, a brewery and staff accommodation redevelopment.

Art structure arrives in Cockatoo ahead of unveiling

By Tyler Wright A public artwork next to Cockatoo’s railway line near the town’s main road is in its final stages and set to be completed in coming months, but locals wish they had more input into the work’s location.

The artwork, commissioned by Cardinia Shire Council and completed by James Voller, was created as part of the Cardinia Public Art Program.

“The artwork celebrates the wonderful history of the Cockatoo community incorporating original photos in its design,” a Cardinia Shire Council spokesperson said.

“Council explored a number of different suitable sites for this piece of artwork, working carefully with the artist and his team, Cardinia’s Ranges Ward Councillors (at that time) and Puffing Billy (as owners of the land at Cockatoo Station which was the mutually agreed final site),” the spokesperson said.

“Whilst the artwork itself was completed as originally planned, due to risks associated with other sites and impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic it has taken longer than was originally anticipated to place the artwork on site.”

The artwork is taped off to the public currently, and Council will undertake the landscaping to complete the project - which will then be permanently accessible to the public.

Chris Thompson, Cockatoo local, said he has been aware of the project plans being in

An art structure located next to the Cockatoo train line is set to become public after landscaping. place for over three years, and believes the “very nice” piece of artwork could have been placed in a “more prominent” spot.

“I’ve had a lot to do with township committees over the years and that was a project very few people knew about from what I can

gather,” Chris said.

“A lot of people seem to like it and are happy to have it - there’s always two questions; ‘how much did it cost?’…but the most important thing is, ‘why was it located there?’

Tate McFarlane, chairperson of Connect-

Picture: TYLER WRIGHT ing Cockatoo Communities Inc, believes the artwork was “ready to go” years ago until it was placed in the community “the other week”.

“It would have been nice if council had been a little bit more public about how they discussed that,” Tate said.

12552768-NG23-22

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mailcommunity.com.au

WALK TO EMERALD AND GREAT RENTAL OPPORTUNITY THIS 4 bedroom, brick home is within walking distance to Emerald central, on a sealed road with a sealed driveway, in a beautiful bushland setting. This highly sought-after location is full of opportunity.

Enter through the brick double garage into a spacious living area with fireplace and large open plan kitchen-dining with ample space for socialising at the breakfast bar.

A second cosy living space, with coonara, looks out onto the spacious backyard and established gardens.

The large master bedroom, with semiensuite, is situated away from the additional

3 good-sized bed rooms; all with built-in robes and close to the spacious main bathroom.

With a manageable size block you get all the perks of hills living without any hassles.

A perfect family home to live in or for an investor to rent out - call to arrange a private inspection today.

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

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 7 Woodlands Avenue, CLEMATIS Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $700,000 - $770,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Aaron Day 0407 365 994 or Brennan Mileto 0422 996 451, BELL REAL ESTATE, EMERALD, 5968 6222

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

Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

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MAIL 19

HOME FOCUS

COUNTRY LIFESTYLE WITH URBAN TOUCH THIS large home is on a flat block 1,041 m², with separate living spaces. Ideal for a growing family, or even for the ones wanting to work from home with a fully set up office and meeting room space, together with its own separate entry makes it the ideal opportunity to have the best of both worlds.

Close to public transport, shops and schools with renowned Paradise Hotel a short drive away together with all that the towns of both Emerald and Belgrave have to offer.

The home offers all of this, whilst embracing the country lifestyle without having to sacrifice urban conveniences so the best of both worlds can be enjoyed without the noise of the hustle and bustle of city living, truly an opportunity to grab whilst it lasts!

Surrounded by well maintained gardens, with the Mistletoe Creek running through the property, this is a stunning home to well and truly treasure for years to come.

Step inside and be greeted by the vast lounge and dining room with soaring timber-lined cathedral ceilings, wood heater, polished floorboards and floor to ceiling windows taking in all the vista of what true hills living is all about whilst overlooking the Mistletoe Creek at your doorstep.

Casual meals area adjoining the large open kitchen, with its separate walk-in pantry makes for entertaining a breeze.

With a light filled family sunroom/ conservatory, separate study or meeting room and a large, fitted home office (that can be converted into the 4th bedroom) your options are endless.

The bedrooms share a family bathroom, with the master bedroom serviced by its own ensuite bathroom.

The property has the comfort of gas fired hydronic heating throughout, ceiling fans in some of the rooms and on-demand gas hot water making for those endless showers a breeze.

Outside the covered deck and vergola provides a year-round relaxing space overlooking the garden or listening to Puffing Billy steam through town.

There is a garden storage shed, wood shed and covered clothesline, plus offstreet parking for two cars.

The bus stop is a minutes walk away making connection to the trains to Ringwood and the city plus local secondary schools.

Private Sale - For your personal inspection, contact either Steve Holmes on 0431 133 599 or Anne Aldridge on 0410 020 610. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

12552964-HC23-22

Address: 1 Railway Parade, MENZIES CREEK Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $990,000 - $1,089,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Steve Holmes 0431 133 599 or Anne Aldridge 0410 020 610

1 Railway Parade, Menzies Creek, Vic 3159

1,041 m²

4

2

2

$990,000 — $1,089,000

COUNTRY LIFESTYLE WITH URBAN CONVENIENCES IN MENZIES CREEK This large home is on a flat block with separate living spaces. Ideal for a growing family, or even for the ones wanting to work from home with a fully set up office and meeting room space, together with its own separate entry makes it the ideal opportunity to have the best of both worlds.

Close to public transport, shops and schools with renowned Paradise Hotel a short drive away together with all that the towns of both Emerald & Belgrave have to offer.

Our home offers all of this, whilst embracing the country lifestyle without having to sacrifice urban conveniences so the best of both worlds can be enjoyed without the noise of the hustle and bustle of city living, truly an opportunity to grab whilst it lasts!

Surrounded by well maintained gardens, with the Mistletoe Creek running through the property, this is a stunning home to well and truly treasure for years to come.

Step inside and be greeted by the vast lounge and dining room with soaring timber-lined cathedral ceilings, wood heater, polished floorboards and floor to ceiling windows taking in all the vista of what true hills living is all about whilst overlooking the Mistletoe Creek at your doorstep.

Casual meals area adjoining the large open kitchen, with its separate walk-in pantry makes for entertaining a breeze.

20 MAIL

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With a light filled family sunroom/conservatory, separate study or meeting room and a large, fitted home office (that can be converted into the 4th bedroom) your options are endless The bedrooms share a family bathroom, with the master bedroom serviced by its own ensuite bathroom.

The property has the comfort of gas fired hydronic heating throughout, ceiling fans in some of the rooms and on-demand gas hot water making those endless showers a breeze.

Outside the covered deck and vergola provides a year-round relaxing space overlooking the garden or listening to Puffing Billy steam through town.

There is a garden storage shed, wood shed and covered clothesline, plus off-street parking for two cars.

The bus stop is a minutes walk away making connection to the trains to Ringwood and the City plus local secondary schools.

PRIVATE SALE - For your personal inspection, contact either Steve Holmes on 0431 133 599 or Anne Aldridge on 0410 020 610.

mailcommunity.com.au

Ranges INvESTMENT oPPoRTuNITY

FLAT LANDSCAPED 1/4 ACRE

GEMBRook 13/13 vISTA CouRT LoW MAINTENANCE, PRIVATE & WALk To ToWN

$480,000-$525,000 2A 1B 2C

This well-appointed over 55’s unit is on a lovely flat allotment of 236sqm and has plenty of extras that are sure to impress the most fastidious buyer. Features include high ceilings, open plan living/dining/kitchen, two spacious bedrooms with BIR’s, central/ensuite effect bathroom, 2 WC’s, ample storage throughout, GDh & S/S, single garage with internal access & second car space, undercover entertaining, flat, fenced allotment with side access. Quick stroll to the bus stop, IGA, shops, cafes, restaurants, parks and more!

Emily Hudson 0418 570 474

Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522

LoG CABIN oN 1908SQM

CoCkAToo 53 PAkENhAM RoAD MID CENTURY MoDERN STYLING

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

CoCkAToo 4 CoCkAToo AvENuE GREAT VALUE-3 LIVING, 2 DRIVEWAYS

$750,000-$815,000 3A 2B 4C

This wonderful brick family home should be on top of your list as it features 3 living spaces - one with a built-in bar, updated kitchen & bathrooms, interior access to the house from the double remote controlled garage, ducted gas heating, gas fire, inground solar heated/salt chlorinated pool with additional toilet & shower, paved outdoor entertaining area, lawn for children/pets to play, landscaped fully fenced gardens, sealed road & driveway access. Situated in a quiet location yet convenient enough to walk into Town!

Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522

Emily Hudson 0418 570 474

YouR oWN PRIvATE oASIS

$780,000-$850,000 4A 2B 2C

This hidden private treasure sits on a usable nearly 1/2 acre block with front & rear access and is just minutes to the Cockatoo Township. Entry to the fully fenced property is through a remote-controlled gate and this light filled home features a flexible floor plan, up-todate kitchen, Master with WIR & modern ensuite, raked ceilings, exposed beams, multiple velux double glazed skylights, expansive covered deck, gas ducted heating, wood fire, air-conditioning, new security doors front and back and ample off street parking.

Jan Brewster 0409 558 805

We put you first

CLEMATIS 2 oGILvY RoAD STUNNING SETTING AND SUNSETS

$1,050,000-$1,150,000 4A 1B 2C

Feel like you have no neighbours on this private, flat & usable near one-acre oasis with views over the neighbouring paddocks. The house is fresh and ready for its new owners, with open plan living & dining that flows out onto the large deck. Also on offer here is a multipurpose room downstairs, double carport, 4.5m x 4.5m shed & room to build a huge shed STCA and fully fenced for safe play. Minutes from Emerald township and the community hub with great access to Wellington Road for easy connection to everything.

Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522

“We Put You First”

Emily Hudson 0418 570 474

1 Bayview Rd, Belgrave Shop 2, 24 McBride Street, Cockatoo Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

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MAIL 21

PROPERTY NEWS

LOCAL SUBURBS LISTED AS TOP FAMILY AREAS

BY TYLER WRIGHT FOUR towns in the Dandenong Ranges have been listed in the top 20 family suburbs with the highest increase in inventory over the past three months, according to a report commissioned by a Melbourne home loan provider.

Well Money’s housing market analysis puts Silvan in third spot for the hottest family suburb in Victoria, but Belgravebased Real Estate agent Mick Dolphin said buying activity is currently at pre-covid levels.

“There’s a lot more families moving within the region from outer Eastern Melbourne suburbs like Pakenham, Ferntree Gully or Boronia and coming up here looking for the lifestyle of bigger blocks, quiet and less traffic,” Mr Dolphin said.

This demographic saw a drastic shift in early 2020 however, when buyers from inner city suburbs such as Northcote and Brunswick flocked to the Dandenong Ranges for a change of scenery.

“In the middle of Covid, 80 per cent of the buyers were from inner city Melbourne that’s extremely high. Normally it would have been less than 20 per cent,” Mr Dolphin said.

“Over the past three months people were starting to think ,‘I should sell.’ There was a bit of a worry that prices might go backwards - and they were trying to sell before that happened - but they started to see that hasn’t happened and now they’re not so worried about moving,” the agent said of the current market.

Well Money’s report, which used data from market researcher Suburbtrends, also showed Selby, Kallista, Kalorama and The Basin were at the top of the family housing market.

Well Money CEO Scott Spencer said

A new housing market analysis puts Silvan in third spot for the hottest family suburb in Victoria.

Picture: ON FILE the suburbs in the top 20 ranking contain a lot of families, owner-occupiers, are relatively close to the Melbourne CBD and “above average” in terms of education and occupational status.

“Over the past three months, inventory levels have increased in all the suburbs, which means there’s more stock on market, buyers have more options and downward pressure is being placed on prices, which should translate into discounts sooner or later,” Mr Spencer said.

Mr Dolphin said while pricing seems to be holding steady for the year so far, once people begin moving to Australia the market may see demand increase and inner city dwellers have now had their minds opened to the possibility of a different lifestyle.

“A lot of the people like the fact that the school sizes up here are a lot smaller, and

A new report has labelled four suburbs in the Dandenong Ranges in the top 20 suburbs in the family housing market.

Picture: SUPPLIED

the perception is that it’s more personable, in terms of interactions with the teachers and the students. When we talk about the community, that’s part of it too, because they are not just a number, there’s a little bit more personal attachment and personal

interaction,” he said.

“Growing families with kids getting older or having a second or third child and needing more space; that was our typical demographic [pre-Covid] and it’s returning back to that.” ●

GRANTS GIVEN TO COMMUNITY GROUPS DANDENONG Ranges Community Bank Group Chair, Deb Weber is pleased to announce that all branch staff from Bendigo Community Bank Branches in Upwey, Belgrave and Cockatoo were given the opportunity to nominate a local community group to receive a $1,000 one-off grant.

“Staff will be making calls to advise 17 groups that they are to receive the $1,000 grant. After a challenging couple of years, we are sure it will be a welcome injection of funds and we hope it will assist those groups doing it tough,” Ms. Weber said.

Among the groups to receive the $1,000 grant are: 3MDR, Sherbrooke Art Society and Emerald RSL. All groups expressed appreciation for the grant.

Phil Ruck from Mountain District Radio 3MDR said, “we’ve expended quite a bit of money recently on new generators to sure up

electricity supplies, one of which is booked to be installed at our transmitter site this week.

These types of projects are only possible with the support of Upwey Community Bank and 3MDR’s sponsors, subscribers, donors, members and volunteers.”

“All these groups benefit because they support the Bendigo Community Bank model by banking with their local branch.

We have given $6 million back to our local communities in 24 years. It’s only through our local community supporting us with their banking business, that we can support groups like the ones receiving these special Staff Grants. Banking locally at Upwey, Belgrave or Cockatoo Bendigo Community Bank branches means that you are getting great service from real people who care about your banking needs,” Senior Group Manager, Mike Fleming said. ●

Peter Maloney from Emerald RSL receives a cheque from Community Bank branch staff member Faye.

22 MAIL

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Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

Phil Ruck from 3MDR is delighted to receive a community grant from Mick Spruhan, Senior Business Development Manager from Community Bank Upwey. mailcommunity.com.au

17 Steel Road, Emerald

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

Stunning Architect Designed Entertainer Home in Emerald!

49 The Crescent, Belgrave Heights

$895,000 - $980,000

Character-filled Brick Home!

Step inside this two-story entertainer’s home, designed by award-winning architect Lindsay Holland. There are 4 bedrooms, one is perfect as a guest suite with its own ensuite and built-in robes, and the Master has an ensuite, walk-in robe and direct access to the deck overlooking the private garden and pool. There is a separate bathroom with spa bath and large storage areas. Upstairs is the kitchen, formal and informal lounges, a home office-study and powder-room. The kitchen has granite benchtops, a 900mm freestanding oven with a gas cooktop, a dishwasher and a breakfast bench. There is gas ducted heating and vacuum cleaning on both levels for convenience. Enjoy the in-ground swimming pool in a private landscaped area.

Enjoy the gardens around this brick, 4-bedroom home in Belgrave Heights. Set on 1,808sqm and close to Belgrave Heights Christian School, and transport, this property is a must see. This home has a large lounge room with a stone-featured fireplace and is carpeted with plenty of natural light. There is ducted heating/evaporative cooling throughout the home. Step up into the formal dining room to access the large deck for entertaining. The custom-built kitchen has stained-glass features, a centre island and opens onto a second living-dining room. There are 4 spacious bedrooms with built-in robes and carpeted, the master has an ensuite, walk-in robe and dressing room. Downstairs is the laundry and a bedroom that would be perfect as a teenager’s retreat. Outside there is a single lockable garage with additional under-house storage and a toilet.

Contact: Aaron Day 0407 365 994

Contact: Aaron Day 0407 365 994

14 Grandview Avenue, Emerald Character Home in Emerald!

Enjoy the manicured gardens of this 3 bedroom plus study, brick home located in Emerald. This home is set on a halfacre consisting of 2 titles; one with a home and the land next door offers double the opportunity. Build a home for the parents/in-laws (STCA). This home has a cabin feel with 3 living areas, a fireplace, central Coonara, gas ducted heating and split system so you’ll be comfortable all year round. The beautiful polished hardwood floors, exposed brick and stunning wood beams add character to this warm family home. The handmade kitchen is spacious with plenty of storage, a breakfast bar and stainless steel appliances.

There are 2 character-filled bathrooms, one with a clawfoot bathtub. Outside is perfect for entertaining with a huge deck, spa area, double lockup garage, a workshop, and plenty of under-house storage.

Contact: Samantha Scott 0438 680 032

bellrealestate.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

$1,050,000 - $1,150,000

71 Fairy Dell Road, Monbulk

$750,000 - $825,000

Renovate your Dream Home and Make your Contribution to Conservation!

Soak up the sounds of the native bushlands in Monbulk with this 10 acre land/property opportunity that has a Trust for nature covenant with an allowance for a dwelling and an Environmental Significance Overlay. Live in total harmony with the surrounding bushland and feel good about your purchase by saving the ecosystem, biodiversity and species of the local area. This combination of conservation and dwelling doesn’t come along often so get in fast to secure your piece of the Australian landscape. In need of renovation, this home has a lovely cabin-look inside, power, 3 bedrooms and character galore. Renovate your dream home and make your contribution to conservation (STCA).

Contact: Richard Birtchnell 0438 747 357

5968 6222

311-313 Main St, Emerald Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

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MAIL 23

Real Estate you can trust!

We ’ r e h e r e t o h e l p FOR SALE

$670,000 - $735,000

210 Olinda-Monbulk Road, MONBULK

3A 2B

TREETOP HOME MOMENTS FROM MONBULK

FOR SALE

35-37 McAllister Road, MONBULK

$970,000 - $1,050,000 6A 3B 7C

VAST AND VERSATILE FAMILY HOME

This inviting home is a sensational opportunity to secure immense comfort, impressive views, and the convenience of Monbulk township only moments from home. The split-level interior with vaulted timber ceilings affords an enriched sense of space within the wonderful open concept design. The kitchen seamlessly connects with the dining area with skylight via polished timber floors. The lower level lounge boasts a cosy wood fire and balcony access for taking in the idyllic outlooks.

This vast and versatile residence that affords ample space for family living sits atop a sprawling 4,051sqm (approx.) landscape. From the covered and open decking, the interior expands in grand scale to the open plan lounge with vaulted ceilings and leadlight windows, dining area with warm wood fire, and timeless timber kitchen with gas stove, copper rangehood, and inviting peninsula seating. Comprising 4 generously proportioned bedrooms with garden views on this level, including the main bedroom with ensuite.

Brad Conder

Brad Conder

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

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

FOR SALE

53 Albert Street, UPPER FERNTREE GULLY

$1,150,000 - $1,230,000

EXPANSIVE HOME IDEAL FOR GROWING FAMILIES

4A 2B 5C

FOR SALE

25 Nicholson Street, OLINDA

$790,000 - $860,000

CONTEMPORARY HOME WITH TREE CANOPY VIEWS

3A 2B 2C

Affording an expanse of living space for growing families and exquisite hillside views, this premier property is the perfect place to call home. Each of the 4 levels is adorned with something special, beginning with the beautiful home office on the entry level. The main floor boasts an open plan kitchen that branches to large living and dining areas that each extend out to their own covered alfresco. On the lower level, the generous rumpus room is the ideal getaway or teenage retreat with a deck for an impressive indoor-outdoor flow.

This property epitomises luxury living in the Hills, residing on a private natural landscape neighbouring National Park and boasting distant valley views, this move-in ready residence is a marvellous acquisition. The upper level of this lovely home is a shining example of open plan living in style. The lounge is rich with natural light and kept cosy with a warm wood fire. The kitchen is executed with precision and the adjoining meals area leading out to the deck for taking in the glorious outlooks.

Brad Conder

Suzie Brannelly

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

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

9754 6888 1689 Burwood Highway, Belgrave VIC 3160 www.chandlerandco.com.au of fice@chandlerandco.com.au 24 MAIL

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Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

mailcommunity.com.au

PUZZLES

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No. 084

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

L

Today’s Aim: 25 words: Good 37 words: Very good

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Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

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10-06-22

William Matthews Funerals FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

24 HOUR SERVICE ALL AREAS

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

12410397-ACM06-19

Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

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MAIL 25

OPINION

Local road names and their history Mount Evelyn acquired a stock of local names from the early years of European settlement.

People referred to a location by the selector’s name, as ‘So-and-so’s Paddock’ or ‘Corner’.

‘Reaburn’s Paddock’ was on James Reaburn’s selection on Old Gippsland/ Old Hereford Roads. The floodplain between Olinda Creek and York Road, which was taken up in 1876 by Mary Ann Brown, was called ‘Brown’s Flat’. Part of this area became ‘Pitt’s Paddock’ after a later owner, George Pitt, who built the Presbyterian Church.

Daniel Clancy brewed and sold sly grog on his selection between Bailey and Clegg Roads.

When the railway was planned, the initial choice for the station site was on his land and was marked on the map as ‘Clancy’s Corner’.

‘Winter’s Swamp’ was the marshy land where Hunter Road crosses Stringy Bark Creek.

The block to the east of Hunter Road was selected in 1884 by Samuel Winter, part-owner and editor of the Herald.

The area southeast of Clegg Road was until recently called ‘McKillop’, with the same

Looking

back Karen Phillips

Mount Evelyn History Group editor postcode as Mt Evelyn but with its own post office and store. Selector John McKillop had a picturesque history (even captured by pirates off South America). After he moved to Western Australia in 1906 his name lived on, still surviving in ‘McKillop Road’ and ‘McKillop Creek’.

Other locations were named after plants or birds commonly found there. ‘Mistletoe Bend’ was located on Olinda Creek at Mt Evelyn Reserve, and ‘Wattle Flat’ at the Recreation Camp site. York Road took a sharp bend at the bridge

and this was known as ‘Bellbird Corner’, from the bellbirds often heard near the creek.

‘Kookaburra Corner’ was an exception. In the 1960s this was an unnamed cutting off Hereford Road, where the local youth used to gather. The spot was always good for a laugh, so became known as ‘Kookaburra Corner’ (now Kookaburra Lane). Some local identities were allegedly conceived there.

Then there were mystery names that were the subject of contested stories, or none.

There are at least three explanations for ‘Billygoat Hill’, between Fernhill Road, Bourke and Russell Streets. The best supported version claims the name came from some goats illicitly ‘borrowed’ from South Melbourne by one of Clement Deschamps’ vine-stick cutters in the 1860s. A goats’ racetrack was set up at Billygoat Hill, where the goats featured in bush sports.

In the 1920s there was an intriguing sign on Monbulk Road, ‘To Olinda Creek and Honeymoon Island’. What was Honeymoon Island, and why was it so named? History is silent.

Entrepreneur biography a worthy read A review of A Spanner in the Works

by Loretta Smith A well-written biography illustrates how a person experiences the events in their life. It presents a comprehensive and captivating story that reveals their values and visions. By analysing how that person’s views and actions are assessed by their contemporaries, it highlights not just their character but the characteristics of their time.

A case at hand is Loretta Smith’s superblytitled book, A Spanner in the Works, which tells the extraordinary story of Alice Anderson and Australia’s very first all-female garage. Alice was born in Malvern, the well-to-do suburb of Melbourne, in 1897. Her father Joshua Anderson, together with John Monash, offered civil, mining and mechanical engineering consulting services across Victoria.

After a series of reckless business decisions and failures to secure work overseas, Joshua relocated his family to Narbethong in 1907.

Here, in isolation and poverty, Alice learned to be resourceful and resilient, always ready to take on life’s challenges.

As automobiles became increasingly popular in Australia, Alice’s father launched a transport service between Healesville and Alexandra in 1915. From the mechanics working there, the girl quickly obtained driving skills and knowledge of motorcar maintenance and repair work.

In 1916, at the age of 19, Alice became the

CARTOON

PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN first woman to singlehandedly drive an automobile over the Black Spur. She proceeded to launch her own motor touring business, using a 1914 Hupmobile – a birthday present from her father after he failed to pay it off – to drive families across the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.

Highly innovative and entrepreneurial, Alice was the first woman in Australia to provide a private motorised service to the public. Having become a fully licensed mechanic in 1918, she launched Miss Anderson’s Motor Service in Kew, It was an all-women garage, which sold petrol, repaired cars, taught driving, and offered 24-hour chauffeur service.

In 1920 there was one car for every 55 people in Australia, and by 1929 it was one for every 11. As women became increasingly interested and involved in driving, Alice shared her experience of learning to operate, maintain and

repair cars via newspapers and magazines. In Australia, she was by far the most authoritative voice on women and motoring.

In 1926, Alice was sponsored to drive a Baby Austin from Melbourne through South Australia to Alice Springs. Soon after her triumphant return from the 2,400-kilometre-plus journey, her life was tragically and violently cut short.

She was only 29 The book is a celebration of Alice Anderson’s legacy. In vivid details, it portrays not only the inspirational life of a pioneer, but how she stood out at a time when much of our society was still uncomfortable with the idea of women being free and independent in the public domain.

Whether or not you subscribe to the common view of the early 20th century that “women drivers lack the nerve and judgement of the stronger sex”, A Spanner in the Works is a worthy read. Not just a biography – it is a brief history of motoring in Australia. Highly recommended.

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Tuesday, 7 June, 2022

Black Crab Starring Noomi Rapace, Jakob Oftebro and Dar Salim Starring MA15+ 3.5/5 Black Crab is a taut, efficient Swedish thriller, but stumbles with its broader intrigue.

During a devastating war, Caroline Edh (Noomi Rapace) and her team must skate across the frozen Stockholm Archipelago to deliver a vital package.

Black Crab draws strong suspense from its faintly absurd premise, with several compelling sequences of combat, stealth and paranoia. The sound design puts you on edge with ominous crackles in the ice, and the stark cinematography juxtaposes the muted blues, whites and greys of extreme cold with the fiery orange and blood red of battle. The action scenes are well-shot, brutal and carry a clear sense of peril.

Rapace conveys strength and vulnerability as Edh, and her lost daughter Vanja provides a poignant anchor for her journey. The characters are engaging, and Dar Salim provides gruff levity as Malik. Like Denis Villeneuve’s Dune (but with exactly opposite temperature extremes), Black Crab benefits from a gradual tightening of focus, as the team members dwindle and their situation grows more dire.

Unfortunately, the plot has a poorlydefined conspiracy beyond the gripping theme of survival.

Black Crab superficially resembles Ingmar Bergman’s 1968 masterpiece Shame, as both (Swedish) films feature corrupt authorities and a struggle for survival amid a gruelling war. Shame and Black Crab both have a “gap” in their world-building, as neither film identifies the enemy. Shame doesn’t need to, as decent society and the protagonists’ happy marriage breaking down in tandem are more important as the film’s dramatic, very personal foundation. Black Crab’s scarce world-building is frustrating, as the villains’ plans and war-torn Sweden’s place in the world are quite nebulous (and the bioweapon reveal is very predictable).

Black Crab is an extremely tense, atmospheric thriller with vague worldbuilding, and is available for streaming on Netflix.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Upcoming shows on stage The 1812 Theatre is pleased to announce their Sunday afternoons have returned.

Sounds of Silent with Buster Keaton in College.

The return of the wonderful afternoons of a silent movie accompanied by the jazz band Sounds of Silence.

Season: Sunday 18 June at 2pm. Bar opens at 1pm.

Tickets: Book online or available at the door if still available.

Live Music Afternoon – Caribbean Calypso Come to The 1812 Theatre for an afternoon of unique music with Friday’s Child (Reggae, Calypso, R & B, Soul).

Season: Sunday 26 June at 2pm. Bar opens at 1pm.

Hawaiian Shirts welcome. $10 entry at the door (no online booking required) Gemco Theatre, Emerald Open Stage presented by Gemco Players If you’re a budding actor, fire breather, belly-dancer singer, comedian, poet, or if you just want to test out your latest guitar piece in front

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Crab a thrill

Kemp’s curtain call of an audience – this is the event for you. If you’re not a performer yourself why not come along and be part of the audience. Bring some friends and make an evening of it.

If you’d like to perform just turn up and register your interest when you arrive with Carol McCoy and Ted Horton.

Next Session: June Venue: The Gem Hall, 19 Kilvington Drive Emerald.

Set up: 7.30pm all welcome.

Time: 8pm – 11pm Tickets: Performers $3. Audience $5. No audience bookings needed.

No BYO alcohol but bring a plate to share. mailcommunity.com.au

OPINION

Voices of Casey unheard

By Parker McKenzie In the aftermath of the federal election, one of the biggest stories was the elevation of community-driven independent candidates to Parliament.

12 independent candidates were elected to the House of Representatives, including Zoe Daniel in Goldstein and Dr Monique Ryan in Kooyong.

Over 40 Voices groups formed to nominate and elect independents throughout Australia including Voices of Casey, who endorsed former Sustainability Victoria CEO Claire Ferres Miles.

Like Ms Daniel and Dr Ryan, Ms Ferres Miles campaigned on integrity in politics, climate action and equality for women, and received funding from Climate 200.

The results were starkly different, however, with Ms Ferres Miles winning 8.5 per cent of the vote at the time of publishing and Dr Ryan and Ms Daniel heading to Canberra to represent their electorates.

Why did the independent wave sweeping the nation fail to take hold in Casey?

One factor may be the relative popularity of former Casey MP Tony Smith.

The animosity towards former Prime Minister Scott Morrison may have lost the vote of some throughout the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, but Mr Smith’s performance as Speaker of the House and his reputation of being respected by both Liberals and the Labor party likely softened the blow.

The new Casey MP Aaron Violi promised more of the same throughout the campaign and while he saw an 8 per cent swing against the Liberal Party compared to the 2019 election, it was enough to get him over the line.

In other places like Kooyong and Goldstein, the animosity extended to the sitting member too. Former Kooyong MP Josh Frydenberg’s comments during Victoria’s lengthy lockdowns and former Goldstein MP Tim Wilson’s pointed scepticism towards climate action won them few admirers at home.

A larger factor though is likely to be the time frame in which Voices of Casey was organised.

Claire Ferres Miles launched her campaign for Casey in March 2022.

Dr Ryan’s campaign launched on 11 December 2021, more than five months before the eventual election day.

More than three months later, Ms Ferres Miles launched her campaign at the Kalorama Memorial Gardens in March 2022.

Behind the scenes, Voices of Kooyong was establishing itself in the community as early as 2020 as frustration with Mr Frydenberg’s performance as a local member began to

Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE

rise. The Voices of Kooyong Twitter and Facebook pages were created in August 2021, six months before Voices of Casey first created its social media.

The first public meeting for Voices of Casey was held online on 27 January 2022, less than four months out from the election.

Ms Ferres Miles was a good candidate — full of integrity, experience and intelligence — but to win a seat held by the Liberal Party since

the 1980s would require a monstrous effort of community organisation highly improbable to achieve in such a short amount of time.

If the Voices movement continues to pick up steam, Ms Ferres Files has proven there is an appetite for an independent voice in Casey.

The lesson, however, is right now is the best time to organise.

Ms Ferres Miles and Voices of Casey were contacted for comment.

gardening tasks, such as planting, mulching, watering.

This is a drop-in style event, arrive at any time, stay as long as you are able. Children are very welcome.

Please dress for the weather and bring drinking water as there is none on-site.

Sunday 12 June from 10pm.

BYO gloves and weather-appropriate gear.

Light lunch provided.

Please RSVP for catering purposes. frogy. info@gmail.com or phone Caroline on 0408 564 472.

SNIPPETS Small social walking group is keen to welcome some new members. Walking every Thursday at 9:30am for about an hour starting at different locations.

The pace and terrain is generally on the more gentle side (though we do have a couple of fast walkers) and you won’t meet a nicer bunch of people.

It’s totally free and there’s no obligation to come every week, just pick the walks you want to do or that fit in with your schedule.

You can find out more on our website: https://janietechthat.wixsite.com/onehourwalks

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HILLS

Food garden working bee Belgrave Food Garden invites you to join us for a working bee! We will be doing a range of

Community planting day Event by Knox Environmental Society, Chatham Avenue Reserve in Ferntree Gully Saturday 25 June.

Join the Friends of the Gully (FROGY) for their first big planting event!

Rotary market Roll up and book your spot for the Merald Rotary Market next Saturday, 11 June from 8am to 1pm.

We look forward t seeing you at the Emerald Primary School Oval, Heroes Avenue, Emerald.

Please contact us on 0408 769 491 or email emeraldrotarymarket@gmail.com.

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

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

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

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

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MAIL 27

ART ATTACK BOARD GAME

Final set of GO-TO cards

By Jenni Ivins This week’s Star Mail papers contain the final set of GO-TO cards to be used in the board game about the shire.

The photos on the cards were submitted by participants in the ‘Connecting Communities – Yarra Ranges Shire’ Facebook group, started in January by artist and writer, Jenni Ivins, to facilitate conversations about what people value about where they live, work or play.

“It has been a pleasure to look at the 500+ photos which were submitted via the group or by email,” Ms Ivins said.

“I selected 180 pictures to be published in the newspaper, from as many people as possible and representing a range of places, plants, animals and activities enjoyed in the Yarra Ranges.”

The participants loved seeing their photos in the game in the papers.

Participant Jenny Scammell said she felt pretty chuffed to see her photo used in the game.

“The game got people thinking about the great area we live in.”

“The game was a fun way to get to know our shire,” said Caroline Stills, who also had a photo in the game. “I wasn’t consciously aware of how big it is beforehand. Amazing array of photos.”

Tracy De, who took the hopping kangaroo photo shown on the back of all the cards, said she received many positive comments from people.

This is the third shire where Ms Ivins has created a board game. To mark the towns in the first game, locals from Cardinia Shire represented the social distancing spots that were starting to appear in public places at that time.

Jenni Ivins playing the game live on Yarra Ranges Life TV. In the Macedon Ranges Connecting Communities game, Ms Ivins used mandalas from the ‘Mandala Mondays’ Facebook group workshops, which she recorded for the community during lockdown.

The spots on the Connecting Communities - Yarra Ranges board game have an exciting link to Country.

They were submitted by Nikki and Tash from Oonah Health and Community Services Aboriginal Corporation.

“The symbol represents people sitting around a campfire, coming together for a yarn

in a place of belonging,” Nikki said.

“It is a simplified version of Oonah’s logo original with the gumleaf.”

Oonah Belonging Place is a welcoming and culturally affirming place in Healesville, where both Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members can access information, services, and programs that are focused on building a healthy, strong and skilled Community.

These are underpinned by a deep commitment to Aboriginal culture and Community, adhering to the Core Cultural Values of Re-

Picture: SUPPLIED spect, Caring and Sharing.

To celebrate the game’s launch in the paper, host of Yarra Ranges Life TV Patrick Boucher and Ms Ivins played the game on-air at Burrinja Cultural Centre last week.

The community game is one of Yarra Ranges Council’s Art Attack projects to support the community throughout the Covid pandemic.

A PDF version of the game — with even more cards — will soon be available for free download from the Facebook group and Council’s website or from Jenni Ivins’ website www.MindDrawing.net

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SPORT

Back on the winner’s list The Senior Women headed out to Yarra Junction on a spectacular Saturday morning, still missing 8 players through injury but keen to make amends for the loss against Healesville last week.

The first quarter was heavy and hard with neither team gaining much ground. It was tight and fairly congested which was reflected in the scoreboard with only a goal kicked between the two teams at quarter time although Junction had their chances. Our usual ruck options weren’t available to us this week so Ness Bateman got the job and she gave us the first opportunity with the ball at centre bounces, which was greatly appreciated by Maddie Collins and Claire Hyett.

Despite the injuries, it is still a powerful midfield unit and in the second quarter they were able to break through the contest with repeated forward entries. Phoebe Dixon’s strong marking in the forward line gave her scoring opportunities too good to miss, but she also scored on the run. 4 goals to halftime was a good return but at halftime, the coaches wanted to the see the players work harder to be first at the footy and to use the wings and create space to get some of the congestion out of the game.

The third quarter continued to be a tough contest but Olinda was able to get the running game going - when they moved the ball wider around the ground they made it harder for Junction to match up. Some errant kicking down the corridor, on the other hand, gave Junction the opportunity to turn over the footy and threaten to score.

Solid defensive efforts by Casey Seymour, Sophie Caldwell and Leah Cody repelled attack after attack. I’m glad neither of those girls is my bank manager because they give away nothing!

Olinda-Ferny Creek’s senior Women’s side toppled Healesville.

The final quarter saw the game break open a little and we could play a brand of footy closer to what we have been working towards but have lacked in the past few weeks. Some good linking play along with hard running and defensive efforts saw a 3 goal final term with Phoebe finishing with a 7 goal bag! The injury list has meant we’ve seen girls take

Picture: ON FILE

on roles they wouldn’t normally have to and many have taken those opportunities by the scruff of the neck. Ruby Gilson supported Claire Hyett with a run in the middle and was very effective at the contest, Laura Clarke willed herself to many contests and won a lot of footy and Maddie McCheyne continued her development as a footballer. Kylie Verba-

kel’s strength in Centre Half Forward, whilst Ness was in the ruck, generated forward movement while Ellie Andre clunked every mark she went for.

In the end, a comfortable 43 point win was a pleasing result but we still have plenty to work on for our rematch with Healesville next round.

Milestone girl Grace hits 100 games achievement Firstly, we’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate Grace Belloni on 100 games for Olinda Ferny Creek, the first female to do so and she’s only 15!

“This week we celebrated Grace’s 100th game for Olinda. As most of us are aware, Grace is an extremely talented footballer - an amazing player to watch from the sidelines and play alongside,” said Grace’s coach Claire Hyett.

“For players in both the junior and senior clubs, she is certainly a teammate who we all look up to, a true role model and brilliant asset in any team she plays in. We are so proud to help celebrate her 100th game with the club - a fantastic achievement!”

Grace has also represented Outer East in the Interleague and NAB development leagues for the Ranges and represented Vic Metro in the NAB National Development Championships. We look forward to seeing how her career develops over the next few years!

“It is also important to acknowledge that Grace is the first female player at Olinda to reach 100 games with the club! Therefore not only is this a milestone for Grace but also for Olinda and their commitment to building their women’s football sides which have since provided the opportunity for Grace to continue playing and building her skills.

To think that Grace started playing with the U10 boys, was part of the first female team at Olinda soon after, and is now able to play with her teammates of 5 years and with a full senior Women’s side, is absolutely incredible and something that we are all proud to celebrate,” said Hyett.

“Thank you Grace for your passion and love for footy that has helped provide opportunities for all women and girls in the community to get involved and play the game we all love playing - you are an inspiration to us all!”

Our Sunday action was at home this week and we saw some fantastic footy action across the board. It was a cold old Olinda day but U10s coach, Ben Smith was impressed with his little warriors in the worst of the weather. He noted that Healesville had given mailcommunity.com.au

Grace in action under lights. us two glorious days of sunshine on our trips out there so the least we could do was to put on Olinda’s best weather! He wasn’t sure how many times you could ask “how many minutes left?” within 30 seconds, but he seems to have found the record on Sunday morning while he was looking all over his board for the position “Bench” because that’s where a couple of his fine fighting lads wanted to play!

Cold it might have been, but the kids loved it and their footy is something else!

The U11s continued their powerhouse season with a 134 point thumping of Yarra Junction. Coach Stuart has been really working on the players’ teamwork, using and trusting each other whilst setting up the

Picture: TREVOR CURRIE ground for good ball movement. In a onesided match, there’s a good opportunity to bring players into the game Stuart was really pleased to see 12 goal kickers for the day!

When one of his boys played on after taking a mark and had his shot on goal touched, his teammates were more disappointed than he was that he missed out and they set out to give him another opportunity. Next week will be a tougher match and the team will have to implement much of what they have been working on to get the W against Monbulk.

The U12 girls continue to find players and continue to improve. A goal in the first 30 secs of the game to Willow-Rose Gordon had the team and their coaches up and about, think-

ing “What if??”. Eventually, Healesville took control of the game but Coach Ruby was really impressed with the intercept marking of Reagan Seamer, the hard ball gets from Bea Edge and Maeve Leone and the efforts from Claire McPeake and Stella Dunstan. They’re definitely building each week and they’re having a lot of fun whilst doing it!

The U13 boys run of good form continued this week against Healesville with 50 gamers Jesse Desta and Rio Neish celebrating their milestones in style. A solid win with a good spread of goal kickers saw Spencer Garrett kick two, whilst Hugo Fishburn’s dash saw him rewarded too. Pocket rocket Xavier Grimes and Fletch Brown kept the scorers busy while Ko Meihuizen and the two Ollies (Haynes and Millwood) impressed the coaches. They’re building nicely towards finals!

The Under 15 boys game against Alexandra had to be abandoned due to an injury to Sam Blenkiron in the second quarter. Precautionary measures meant that he couldn’t be moved until an ambulance got to the ground but thankfully he is reported to be home from the hospital and ok with no significant injury. Hope to see you back on your feet and at training soon Sam! The Under 16 girls took on Wandin and set themselves the task to build on their momentum of improving footy and notch a win. A close to full strength side hit the ground running as the girls used superior ball movement and vision to set up good link-up football. Elsa Leonard and Kaesha Christie repelled Wandin attacks with strong intercept marks and run. Tilly Oleskowski deep in defence gave Paige Robinson some relief at Full Back this and both seemed to relish the change. Grace provided strength through the midfield and kicked 4 goals whilst Nikayla Seamer booted 3. Jackie Ring, in her 50th, dominated the ruck contests and was really good around the ground whilst Kiah Barry also proved that size doesn’t matter as she repeatedly went and won hard balls from contests. It was a really strong performance by the girls with some great link-up footy using teammates in good positions for fast ball movement.

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SPORT

Monbulk FC topple Officer Officer is one of Monbulk’s recent rivals since the YVMDFL and South-East Leagues combined in 2019. The corresponding fixture last year had Officer leading by 2 goals into timeon in the last term before Monbulk kicked 3 late goals to snatch a thrilling 6 point win. Both clubs have shared similar ladder positions over the last few years with the Hawks, however, having won four of their five encounters leading into Saturday’s match.

After Monbulk had lost their opening three home fixtures this year, the players steeled themselves for a hard, consistent and relentless onslaught to control the game from the outset. As the guests attending the President’s Lunch watched on, the Hawks put on a four quarter clinic with fierce pressure at every turn.

Kicking six, seven, five and five goals across the four quarters, it was Monbulk’s best fourquarter performance of the year. Monbulk forced themselves to a 129 point win and equal fourth on the ladder with 13 different goalkickers on the day. Officer battled on gallantly but was never allowed much freedom of movement as Monbulk’s mosquito brigade dominated and swooped onto every contest.

Monbulk 23.18.156 def Officer 4.3.27 Best: Benjamin Grimes, Kai Linde, Mitchell Dekker, Ryan Gilbert, Mackay Bateson, Thomas Taylor Goals: Taylor Joyce 5, Lochlan Beecroft 2, Glenn Strachan 2, Nicholas Wall 2, Mackay Bateson 2, Thomas Taylor 2, Steven Oates 2, Kai Linde 1, Bailey Rutherford 1, Harry Fleming 1, Max Thornton 1, Benjamin Grimes 1, Ben Hughson 1 The Monbulk Reserves have battled for numbers this year and have had many fill-ins to help make up the team. They have already used 44 different players with only four of those having played every game this season.

This lack of continuity has affected the ability to play with any sort of cohesion but consistent training numbers give hope for a more settled future. Officer started full of run in the first half but the Monbulk side had much the better of the second half with nine scoring shots to three but inaccuracy prevented them from

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Monbulk was convincing winners over Officer in the seniors. being able to close the gap. Veteran Shane Van Seters played his 299th senior/reserves game and will get to a cherished 300th (plus Club and League Life Membership) in his next appearance for the Hawks, although that will be delayed due to a mid-season holiday.

Monbulk 3.10.28 def by Officer 8.4.52 Best: Josh Rak, Tyren Utting, Lewis Oliver, Dylan Goldberg, Matthew James, Mark Flynn Goals: Jayden Mauchline 1, Dale Ross 1, Shane Van Seters 1 The Under 19s competition has various struggles with numbers for many teams. To ensure matches can proceed a minimum of just 12 players constitute a team and both sides will field the same amount. With Officer

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Picture: ON FILE

having just 14 this week, Monbulk matched that number on the field, despite having gotten permits for five Under 17s at the last minute which allowed the Hawks a bench of that number. Monbulk controlled the play but wayward shots at goal kept the Kangaroos within striking range in the first half despite barely any forward fifty entries. Scoring improved in the second half, even if accuracy didn’t in the windy conditions, as the young Monbulk side scored a comfortable 55 point victory and outright fourth on the ladder.

Monbulk 12.17.89 def Officer 5.4.34 Best: Ziggy Hatherley, Lachlan Smith, Tully Ford, Riley Finlay, Gary Ross, Liam Lourey Goals: Ziggy Hatherley 4, Lachlan Smith 3,

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Gary Ross 2, Noah Rutherford 1, Riley Finlay 1, Zeke Charlton 1 For the senior Women’s game against Thornton-Eildon in the evening, the chilly June day added showers at halftime of their match. Monbulk held a lead for the first three quarters but succumbed in the final term when Thornton added three quick goals and held on in the dying stages.

Monbulk 6.9.45 def by Thornton-Eildon 8.4.52 Best: Molly Horne, Indy Bakker, Laura Gillard, Stephanie King, Grace Emmett, Emily McKay Goals: Kathryn Gow 2, Emily McKay 2, Calida Borrett 1, Laura Gillard 1

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Grants for natural disaster losses

Monbulk on the attack.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Monbulk netballers take down ROC In Netball, Monbulk and ROC (Rythdale Officer Cardinia) have had some titanic struggles over the last few years and today’s meeting was no different. The seventh-placed Hawks took on the equal second ROC and it was to be a strong second term that established the game-breaking difference for Monbulk as they eventually ran out winners by an impressive 8 goals.

Monbulk 46 def ROC 38 Best: Paige Whitworth, Tiana Mancarella, Nicole Macdowell Goals: Tarnee Adams 24, Stephanie Puopolo 22

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was Monbulk who emerged victorious by three goals and entrenched themselves in second place, now being a game clear.

Monbulk 39 def ROC 36 Best: Siobhan Munday, Fleur de Wit, Alice McCormick Goals: Iris de Wit 25, Dayna Walsham 14 C Grade was a match that could have gone either way and the improving Hawks fell agonisingly short by 2 goals.

Monbulk 27 def by ROC 29 Best: Sammy Beecroft, Lisa Boyle, Rihanna Kelly Goals: Chloe Schmidtke 14, Jamie Sands 13

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Team defence from the Hawks.

The B Grade match pitted the secondplaced Monbulk against third-placed ROC in a potential finals preview. In a game where both sides showed great passages of play, it

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Sport clubs affected by natural disasters or unforeseen events such as theft of equipment, are able to apply for a State government grants program to help recoup what has been lost.

Community Sport minister Ros Spence announced grants of up to $2,000 would be available from Wednesday 1 June through round one of the Labor government’s Emergency Sporting Equipment Grants Program.

“Our emergency grants provide the lifeline clubs need so they can continue doing what they do best, bringing communities together and helping people play the sport they love,” she said.

“This is about supporting clubs get back to normal after setbacks beyond their control.”

The grants provide swift and practical support to clubs to help them back on their feet in times of need, replacing essential equipment lost through fires, theft and other setbacks.

The Program complements the Sporting Club Grants Program which has delivered more than $13 million to support community sporting clubs since 2014.

The recent Community Sport Sector Covid-19 Survival Package has also provided $50 million to more than 7,500 clubs, leagues, state associations and other organisations across the sport and active recreation sector during the pandemic. The government hopes this continues to make community sport more accessible and inclusive, stimulate local economies, build local sport and volunteer opportunities, and increase participation.

For more information about the Emergency Sporting Equipment Grants and how they can help visitsport.vic.gov.au. mailcommunity.com.au

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FIXTURES - ROUND 13 Thursday, June 9 ................................................ Richmond vs Port Adelaide Saturday, June 11 .......................................................... Brisbane vs St Kilda Friday, June 10 ..............................................................Essendon vs Carlton Sunday, June 12 .................................................... North Melbourne vs GWS Saturday, June 11 .....................................................Fremantle vs Hawthorn Monday, June 13 .................................................Collingwood vs Melbourne Byes: Adelaide, Geelong, Gold Coast Suns, Sydney, West Coast, Western Bulldogs

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