Mail - Ferntree Gully Star Mail - 2nd August 2022

Ferntree Gully Belgrave

Apiarists concerned of mite affecting bees

Community groups raise awareness for homelessness

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Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

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Nappies needed The Patch Store is currently welcoming nappy donations as part of the annual campaign run by The Nappy Collective to distribute disposable sanitary items to families in crisis.

The campaign launched Monday 18 July and the general store has already received a box full of donations.

According to The Nappy Collective, 1 in 10 families in Australia can not afford the nappies they need for their babies.

Without access to nappies, children may be left in existing underwear for too long; causing distress, discomfort and infections.

Read the full story on page 15 Rinny and Madi from The Patch Store with nappies ready for donation for The Nappy Collective. 290718 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Accused on bail A father accused of kidnapping two 15-yearold girls and raping them in remote locations in the 1990s has been freed on bail because of his family’s ongoing support.

Father of seven, Garry Cook, has been charged nearly 24 years after allegedly raping the girls in September and December 1998, after picking them up in the Belgrave area.

The 71-year-old’s first alleged victim was hitchhiking near Belgrave train station at about 8.45pm on 24 September, hoping for a lift to Emerald.

Cook allegedly offered her a ride, during which he pulled out a small silver revolver and held it to the girl’s head while he raped her, before driving her to the outskirts of Emerald.

Prosecutor Jelena Malobabic opposed bail in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Monday, arguing he was an unacceptable risk to the safety of women.

The second girl was just 10 seconds from home walking toward a bus stop when Cook allegedly pulled over and offered her a lift.

Cook allegedly drove into a paddock and forced the girl into the footwell of the car, ordering her to cover herself with a blanket before he drove another 15 or 20 minutes to a remote location.

The court heard Cook was armed with a silver handgun and a knife as he directed her to the back of the car where he raped her.

The girl was driven to Belgrave train station where she told friends and alerted police.

Male DNA profiles matching each other were found in multiple samples taken from each girl, which were later found to be a match to Cook.

Both girls also memorised the numberplates, which were found to be from stolen cars.

Cook lived in the area at the time and has owned a smash repair business since 1981, giving him access to a variety of vehicles, the court heard.

His lawyer Emily Clark said Cook had the support of his current wife and former partner as well as his children, she said.

Cook’s business, Pro-Car Collision Repair Centre, was forced to close after he was arrested because no one else could manage the insurance claims process.

An employee told the court all five staff would lose their jobs if Cook wasn’t able to run the business.

Magistrate Kieran Gilligan acknowledged the seriousness of the case, involving two children being kidnapped and raped in isolated areas.

But he said Cook intended to challenge DNA evidence including samples taken from the alleged victims at the time and a sample taken from him during his police interview.

He also acknowledged Cook’s ongoing family support, his ability to stay with his sister, a $500,000 surety and his work record.

A trial could also be some years away, he said. The case is set to return to court for a committal mention in November.

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IN BRIEF

Farewell to Archie

Archie Roach will leave behind a legacy of music and storytelling. Picture: ADRIAN COOK High School, a place where he had fond memories of his friendships.

“Although there were limits to the social standing of a ’black bastard’ in high school,

I had great friends at my new school Lilydale High, friends I really cared about.

“There was a Dutch kid named Hank, an independent soul who refused to compete in anything and spoke with a creamy accent, a girl with cerebral palsy who had callipers on her legs, and another slight, very smart boy who we called The Brain.

“It was only with these friends that I would stand up for myself. I couldn’t bear seeing these good kids disappear into themselves after a barrage of insults and cackles.”

In 1970 while in class at Lilydale High, Roach received a letter from his sister Myrtle informing him his biological mother, Nellie, had died.

It was this letter that sent him on a journey to find the truth about his origins and life as an Aboriginal man, leading to some of his most poignant and well-known songs like Took The Children Away.

Archie Roach will be remembered for his unwavering desire to share the stories of Aboriginal people, his iconic voice and his musical capabilities.

Roach was meant to perform in Healesville on Saturday 6 August.

Police try to identify Ferny Creek remains Victoria Police are appealing for assistance in identifying male skeletal remains found on 18 March 2006 in Ferny Creek, near Mount Erin Road and Janesdall Avenue.

After exhausting all avenues of identification, including DNA and dental records, the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) have developed a facial reconstruction based on a CT scan of the skull.

By releasing the recently constructed facial reconstruction for the first time, police are hopeful a member of the community may recognise the person or have information that will help lead to the identification of the remains.

A forensic anthropologist examined the remains on 22 and 23 March 2006, concluding the deceased was a Caucasian male aged between 23 and 27 and approximately 167 to 180cm in height.

Several items of clothing were discovered with the remains; including the remnants of a purple scarf, pants and shoes.

However the exhibits were severely decayed, and no other items of identification were located.

On 16 March 2012, the Coroner delivered a finding which determined the male had died due to an unknown cause, sometime between February 1999 and December 2000.

Yarra Ranges Crime Investigation Unit Leading Senior Constable Danielle Fleming said when a loved one goes missing, “family and friends are thrust into an unimaginably emotional and frightening situation”.

“With no DNA match or identifying fea-

The Hills Creative Alliance run Community Focus Friday sessions held every Friday from 10:30am have now moved online.

Attendees will now be able to meet with the group via zoom as part of the community-led initiative for locals and storm-affected residents to support one another after the 2021 June storm event.

Those interested are advised to look out for speakers joining the group over the next few weeks.

On Friday 8 July, Natural Disaster Recovery Consultant and Clinical Psychologist David Younger visited Olinda Community House to assist Dandenong Ranges residents with storm recovery, and Community The zoom link and more information can be found here www.hillscreativealliance. com/

Suicide Prevention Strategy The State Government is seeking community and sector input on its Suicide Prevention and Response Strategy, one of the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System.

In 2021, 699 Victorians were lost to suicide and the strategy aims to identify the many factors that can contribute to, and protect against, suicide.

Acting Minister for Mental Health Ros Spence said suicide has a devastating impact on individuals, families and our community.

“We need to work together to fix the system and prevent devastating outcomes,” she said.

The Engage Victoria consultation is available at: engage.vic.gov.au/the-victorian-suicide-prevention-and-response-strategy

Cost of living rise

A forensic anthropologist examined the remains on 22 and 23 March 2006, concluding the deceased was a Caucasian male aged between 23 and 27, and approximately 167 to 180cm in height.

Victoria Police are appealing for assistance in identifying male skeletal remains found on 18 March 2006 in Ferny Creek, near Mount Erin Road and Janesdall Avenue.

Pictures: VICTORIA POLICE tures on the remains discovered in Ferny Creek, sadly we have been unable to provide the family and friends of the deceased closure,” Constable Fleming said.

“By exploring facial reconstruction with the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine,

we are hoping a member of the community will come forward with information that may help identify the remains.”

Once all investigative avenues have been exhausted, and where possible, police will look to work with partner agencies when remains cannot be identified.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or lodge a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.gov.au.

Residents in the Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Valley saw the cost of living continue to rise in the past three months, with increases in prices of vegetables, fuel and housing all contributing to the largest annual rise of the Consumer Price Index “since the introduction of the goods and services tax” in 2000.

According to new CPI data published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, household inflation rose by 1.8 per cent in the three-month period from March to June 2022.

The ABS’s Head of Prices Statistics Michelle Marquardt said the rise followed a 2.1 per cent increase in the previous quarter.

“The CPI’s automotive fuel series reached a record level for the fourth consecutive quarter.

Fuel prices rose strongly over May and June, following a fall in April due to the fuel excise cut,” she said.

“Annual price inflation for new dwellings was the strongest recorded since the series commenced in 1999.”

According to the data, fuel prices rose for the eighth consecutive quarter by 4.7 per cent in Melbourne and the price of vegetables increased by 7.7 per cent.

Shortages of building supplies, labour, high freight costs and high construction activity were the main contributing factors to rising prices for newly built dwellings according to the ABS, with Melbourne seeing a 6.9 per cent rise. The cost of renting in Melbourne rose only slightly by 0.2 per cent.

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Archie Roach, musician, storyteller and a voice for Aboriginal people, has died aged 66 surrounded by family and friends at Warrnambool Base Hospital.

Having battled lung cancer for many years, performing with the assistance of an oxygen tube, Roach’s health had deteriorated.

The Gunditjmara (Kirrae Whurrong/Djab Wurrung), Bundjalung Senior Elder was born in Mooroopna but spent time with his foster parents, Alex and Dulcie Cox, living in both Mount Evelyn and Mooroolbark.

In an interview with Star News last May, in the lead up to his memoir tour Tell Me Why, Roach spoke of his early years growing up in the eastern suburbs.

Regularly making holiday trips to Mount Evelyn, Roach described his foster father’s house as a ‘shack’ “nestled among gum trees.

There was a fish filled creek nearby that I’d throw a line into. I loved that Mt Evelyn place.”

Eventually moving to the shack when times got tough financially, Roach said “while in Mt Evelyn, Mum and Dad Cox’s health declined even further. We were there a year before moving to nearby Mooroolbark.“ As a teenager, Roach enrolled at Lilydale

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Funding boost for $250 energy bonus

By Tyler Wright The State Government has added $205 million to the Victorian Government’s $250 power saving bonus program due to high demand from the state’s households.

Over 11,000 applications for the Victorian Government’s $250 bonus have already been made throughout Hills suburbs since 1 July, with one million households state-wide taking advantage of the initiative by visiting the Victorian Energy Compare website to weigh up energy provider offers.

Mums of the Hills founder and Sassafras resident Belinda Young said many local families have looked into the bonus payments and are researching alternative energy providers.

“Mums play a major role in running the

household and so it is no surprise that many have looked into the current program,” Ms Young said.

“I’m aware that many local households have taken advantage of the power saving program, however issues with the website crashing have prevented others from doing so.”

According to Victorian Government user data, seven out of every 10 users saved an average of $330 by switching energy offers over the past 12 months. Since 1 July, Ferntree Gully residents are leading the charge with 4277 households applying for the bonus, while Emerald and Belgrave sits behind them withe 678 and 617 respectively.

Some 549 Cockatoo and 490 Monbulk residents have applied and Kallista, Sassafras and The Patch all sit below 250 applications. The

Power Saving Bonus is available until 30 June 2023, with no caps on the number of households that can receive the once-off payment.

“We know Victorian families are doing it tough, so we’re topping up the $250 Power Saving Bonus program to make sure no one misses out,” Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio said.

Other programs helping households and businesses to slash energy bills include Victorian Energy Upgrades, which provides upfront incentives for low-cost-to-free energy efficient products, and Solar Victoria, which offers households and businesses discounted solar panels, batteries and efficient heating and cooling. To apply for some relief off your energy bill, visit the Victorian Energy Compare website at https://compare.energy.vic.gov.au/

A further $205 million has been added to the Victorian Government’s Power Saving Bonus which began on 1 July.

Police plea for driver safety after five Vic fatalities Victoria Police is pleading with motorists to take care while driving this weekend after five lives were tragically lost on Victorian roads last weekend including a man in Healesville.

Two motorcyclists were killed in separate collisions on Friday evening in Docklands and Cranbourne North, and a further three drivers were involved in fatal single-vehicle collisions between Friday night and Sunday afternoon in Burwood and Congupna.

“Last weekend was nothing short of tragic – five lives were lost on Victorian roads,” Act-

ing Assistant Commissioner Road Policing Justin Goldsmith said.

“We really need people to heed the warnings and think about what you’re doing when you take to the road or get behind the wheel.”

The five fatalities bring the number of lives lost on Victorian roads to 142, which is 17 higher than the same time last year and higher than the five-year average of 132.

Police are particularly concerned about the increased risk to vulnerable road users, with motorcyclists now accounting for 31

lives lost – a 35 per cent increase on the fiveyear average of 23.

Pedestrians have accounted for 28 lives lost this year, which is 13 higher than the same time last year and a 40 per cent increase on the five-year average of 20.

Speed and distraction have been identified as key contributing factors in fatal collisions, with police urging motorists to slow down and remain alert to help protect themselves and other road users from ending up in a collision.

“It sounds so simple, but slowing down, remaining alert and being considerate of other road users could really be the difference between saving your life, or someone else’s,” Mr Goldsmith said.

“We’ll do everything we can to reduce the amount of trauma on our roads, but we need all road users to do their bit too. It’s up to all of us” Victoria Police will remain highly visible across the state’s roads in an effort to deter distracted and dangerous driving behaviour.

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Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

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Climate emergency declared by Knox

By Parker McKenzie Knox City Council has officially declared a climate emergency replacing a previous motion in September only “recognising” the issue, despite strong opposition from two councillors, Councillor Jude Dwight moved to officially and publically declare a climate emergency at Knox City Council’s meeting on Monday 25 July.

“In September last year when Council endorsed its climate response plan, the motion was amended to also recognise the state of climate emergency,” Cr Dwight said.

“In this last-minute amendment, the wording seemed appropriate and was considered sufficient for inclusion in the climate emergency declaration movement.”

She said disasters around the world prove action is needed now to mitigate future risks, costs and damages to residents of Knox by declaring a climate emergency.

Cr Darren Pearce said while he respects Cr Dwight’s position on the matter, he disagreed with declaring a climate emergency and absolutely opposed the motion.

“This is virtue signalling, it is social engineering. It is not the core business of Council and it will achieve nothing of substance at all, except potentially impact on future private property rights,” he said.

“How many of you are going to get into gasguzzling SUVs after this meeting? Are you going to continue your caravan road trips?”

“I believe this is a classic case of gross hypocrisy. If we pass this tonight it is a classic case of the civic leadership of this council not leading by example in their own personal behaviours.”

Cr Cooper said she would speak against the motion and didn’t want “to get into the

Residents in Ferntree Gully will see the introduction of the new four-bin system by mid-2023.

Picture: SUSTAINABILITY VICTORIA

Bin update for Knox residents

By Parker McKenzie Cr Jude Dwight moved the motion to declare a climate emergency in the City of Knox.

Picture: KNOX CITY COUNCIL whole debate about climate change” because “there’ll be some who will speak against it and have equal basis of arguments.”

“On the 27 September last year, when the climate response plan came to council, I was more than happy to support that climate response plan,” she said.

“Through that process at no point did we ask our community if we wanted them if they wanted us sorry to declare a climate emergency on their behalf. The question was not asked, our community were not consulted.”

Director of City Strategy and Integrity Matt Kelleher was asked by Councillor Meagan Baker to explain the impact the motion would have if it was successfully moved.

Mr Kelleher said the motion would create more active language around how Knox City Council approaches a climate emergency.

“Council has publicly acknowledged that it recognizes we’re in a state of climate change

and it’s adopted the CRP, the climate response plan,” he said.

“It’s really around recognition of the role that council plays in relation to climate change and how serious and urgent it’s treating it.”

Cr Nicole Seymour and Cr Yvonne Allred, who seconded the motion, also spoke in support of declaring a climate emergency.

Knox Mayor Susan Laukens said she would support the motion to reaffirm the council’s commitment to acting on climate change.

“It is real, it is happening and climate scientists have been warning us of extreme weather events,” she said.

“Our Local Government Act is requiring us to make significant action in climate change space and I totally agree…We need to be advocating and show leadership in this space.”

The motion was passed with seven counsellors for and only Cr Pearce and Cr Cooper opposing.

Hills community groups invited to apply

By Tyler Wright Community groups and organisations throughout the Hills are invited to apply for funding through a new round of community grants opening on Monday 1 August.

The Hills Recovery Committee from Yarra Ranges Council will seek applications from groups who are operating in at least one the Hills townships and have ready-to-go projects which meet an urgent need.

Hills Recovery Committee Chair Gareth Hart said the grant program is funded by the Bendigo Bank’s Community Enterprise Foundation and is a response to the community’s desire for social connection after Covid-19 lockdowns and the June 2021 storm event.

“The grants are focused on the idea of recovery, and they’re asking for community to put forward an idea for a project that is shovelready. So ideas, projects that are ready to go now, that might bring the community together [and] might invest in our sense of connection,” Gareth said.

“The great thing about the CRC funding program is that it’s very broad. So really, it’s about the impact of what those grants will do and how the community come together through those grants.”

Gareth said they imagine some applications will focus on festivals, food, the arts and mental health support.

“That’s one of the I think one of the best things about the program is that we’re not defining what the project should be; we’re just defining in a way what they should do, which is bring people together,” they said.

The Kalorama Collective, which was formed after the June 2021 storm event to provide meals, showers and supplies to those in need, will be applying for funding through this Hills Community Recovery Committee Grant Round to support their monthly dinners.

The dinners bring Dandenong Ranges resimailcommunity.com.au

The Hills Community Recovery Committee at Selby Community House. dents together at Olinda Community House to gather and support each other in recovery.

Funds will help The Soup Angels purchase supplies for meals, entertainment and ongoing running costs.

“We’ve been relying on locals individually donating, so any funding would be appreciated,” chairperson of The Kalorama Collective Nia Beardsley said.

To apply in this round of grants, each community group or organisation must be servicing the areas of Belgrave, Belgrave Heights,

Picture: SUPPLIED

Belgrave South, parts of Emerald, Ferny Creek, Kallista, Kalorama, part of Lysterfield, Macclesfield, Menzies Creek, Monbulk, Mt Dandenong, Narre Warren East, Olinda, Sassafras and Selby, Sherbrook, Silvan, Tecoma, The Patch, Tremont, parts of Upper Ferntree Gully and Upwey.

To learn more and apply in this grant round, visit https://www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/recovery/Community-and-wellbeing/RegionalCommunity-Recovery-Committees Applications close on Monday 29 August.

Ferntree Gully residents will see “statemandated recycling reform” in 2023 with the introduction of food and garden organics bins by midway through next year.

In March 2020 the Victorian State Government introduced a new policy mandating all local councils introduce a new four-bin waste and recycling system separating combined food and garden organics (FOGO), glass recycling, plastic, paper, cardboard and metals recycling and residual household waste by 2030.

Knox City Councillors debated the benefits and negatives of introducing FOGO bins on either a weekly or fortnightly basis by mid-2023, before passing the motion for a weekly collection of food and garden bins alongside fortnightly rubbish bin collection at its council meeting on Monday 25 July.

Deputy Mayor Nicole Seymour said the community has high expectations of the council when dealing with rubbish collection as she called for more community consultation on the introduction of FOGO bins.

“Whether we like it or not, council’s priorities are roads, rates and rubbish,” she said.

“I’m not prepared to make a decision on the frequency and buy into this whole best practice when I don’t know what other municipalities’ green waste service is like in compared to ours.”

In supporting the motion, Cr Jude Dwight said it was “the biggest change our residents will have to their curbside service for many years.”

In a statement, Knox City said food scraps make up 43 per cent of what goes into rubbish bins. Through FOGO bins, food waste will be turned into compost which is “damaging to our environment and reduces harmful greenhouse gases produced by food rotting in landfill.”

Mayor Susan Laukens said the council knows it will be a big change for the community and they will be offering additional support and service options.

“Collecting the food and garden bins weekly means most of the stinky things in our bins will continue to be picked up weekly,” she said.

“We will consult the community to understand what some of the challenges of this change will be and what special exemptions and arrangements can be put in place for households that have specific needs like children in nappies and people using incontinence aids, larger households or households with high volumes of medical waste.”

Knox City Council said it currently diverts 45 per cent of all kerbside waste from landfill, while some councils in Victoria divert up to 76 per cent by switching to weekly food and garden bins alongside fortnightly rubbish bin collection.

Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

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Hope for childcare crisis

By Callum Ludwig Early years education in the Yarra Ranges as a number of issues plague the industry and the Victorian Government announce a number of changes coming to the sector in the future.

These boosts can’t come any sooner, with analysis from Victoria University’s Mitchell Institute revealing in May that childcare access in the Casey electorate is the worst in Victoria and Millgrove Preschool recently announcing they have had to temporarily close for Term 3.

CEO of Yarra Ranges Kinders Gaby Thomson said the biggest issue facing the sector in the Yarra Ranges is staff numbers.

“The staff are very much impacted by Covid, kinders have remained open the whole time and they are exhausted. A lot of teachers and educators have left the sector, and not just in the Yarra Ranges,” she said.

“It’s very difficult to find staff to backfill to cover for a week that everyone needs to isolate due to Covid, and it’s been hard enough filling permanent positions. We have had to close at times and we do everything we can to avoid closing.”

A number of changes are coming to the industry as part of the Victorian Government’s Best Start, Best Life early childhood education reforms to improve access to early childhood education from a number of aspects: namely incentives for qualified early childhood educators to join, return or relocate to become a part of the workforce and making Three and FourYear old Kinder free from 2023.

Ms Thomson said that at current, funding is a really uncertain issue that the sector has been facing.

“We have very dedicated teachers and educators but there just hasn’t been enough to do the job that is required, and for every hour they teach, there’s essentially half an hour where

Millgrove Preschool recently announced they will be closed for Term 3. they need to do everything else. Obviously, kinders have a huge amount of compliance to be maintained to keep children safe,” she said.

“We really need to receive enough funding to be able to fund our teachers a bit more like primary schools where they’re employed full

Picture: SUPPLIED

time, when you think about how much time they need planning sessions, planning contact with families, attending meetings, their notes, their compliance and even just answering emails.”

Yarra Ranges Kinders operates 21 kinders,

20 in the Yarra ranges and one in Knox, and only Warburton Preschool is classified and funded as rural.

The Best Start, Best Life reforms recently included location incentives of $9,000 are also available for educators willing to relocate to high-priority services across the state to deliver the nation-leading rollout of universal Three-Year-Old Kindergarten. There are also existing location incentives of $9,000 to $50,000 for early childhood teachers who take up a role at a high-priority service. Currently, a process to determine which services are considered high-priority is underway.

Ms Thomson said she is hopeful the Yarra Ranges will be considered for the incentives.

“At the moment, we really struggle to be able to get staff, particularly in areas up in the hills and out along the line to Warburton. it’s a real challenge both for ongoing staff and for casual relief, which is just as important at the moment, because of the amount of Covid knocking everyone around and taking people out of the workforce is huge,” she said.

“I would be thrilled, we have a lot of vulnerable communities out there. We know how important early education and support are for children’s development, it’s absolutely vital.

We’re hoping and holding our breath to see what happens.”

Early childhood educators can view the Early Childhood Jobs site is the place to look and apply for or advertise early childhood education jobs and incentives. www.jobs.earlychildhood.education.vic.gov.au/.

“We’re supporting our early childhood workforce with more financial incentives and innovative courses to ensure we attract, retain and support dedicated staff to deliver the best educational start for Victorian children,” said Minister for Early Childhood Education and Pre-Prep Ingrid Stitt.

Varroa Mite causes worries for beekeeping’s future

By Mikayla van Loon Beekeepers across Victoria have been issued a warning about a fast spreading and destructive parasite, not only with the potential to change beekeeping habits but the growth of fresh produce.

Bob’s Beekeeping Supplies director Bronwyn Woods said the Varroa Mite was first discovered in Australia on the New South Wales coast on 22 June.

“We’ve had a few incursions that we’ve been able to stop in the past but this means our biggest incursion and it started in Newcastle,” she said.

Varroa Mites lay one male and between two to 16 female eggs in each cell, meaning numbers can spread and escalate quickly.

The Watsons Creek beekeeper recently volunteered to participate in the Varroa Mite containment efforts in Newcastle, coordinated by the Department of Primary Industries and the Rural Fire Service.

“We would go out to addresses during the daytime and we would do surveillance checks and once we’d finished at one address, we would go to the next address,” Ms Woods said.

“The surveillance checks were really based on where other mites had been found and so they were trying to map how far it may have spread.”

Covered head to toe in protective gear, including suits, gloves and veils, Ms Woods said everything had to be sprayed down with alcohol to enter and leave a site.

Having helped during the recovery of the Black Saturday Bushfires, Ms Woods said the response felt very similar and “it was basically all hands on deck, there was the same level of management and layers of complexities but without the flames.”

Varroa Mite is a small reddish brown external parasite of the honey bee, located in most of the major beekeeping producers in the world, that can kill any hive if left untreated.

“It’s massively concerning. It’s devastating,” Ms Woods said.

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Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

A group of volunteer beekeepers from all over Australia, including four from Victoria went to Newcastle help crews.

Beekeeper Bronwyn Woods went to New South Wales to assist with containing the Varroa Mite outbreak.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

The operation was jointly led by the Department of Primary Industries and the Rural Fire Service.

“In Australia every third bite we have in our diets can be attributed to the honeybee.

So, as soon as we have something that impacts our honeybees, it impacts our whole agricultural system.”

Already an incursion of the mite has been located at a blueberry farm in New South Wales, causing widespread concern for surrounding growers of macadamias and raspberries who can no longer have beehives on their farms.

“In the Sunraysia area in Victoria, we’re looking at massive crop impacts on all our

stone fruits. And the almond industry will not have enough hives to satisfy the requirements to create almond crops this year.

“They’re 10s of 1000s of beehives short in Victoria, to carry out the scale of the pollination that they need each year and so it impacts beekeepers but it also impacts our agricultural industry.

“It also flows onto impacting us day to day, because that flow on will be huge. There will be huge increases in our fruit and veggies that we buy from the shop, are just not going to be there.”

Alongside the lack of produce, Ms Woods said already the mental health of many beekeepers and farmers has been impacted, particularly in New South Wales where they have experienced fires and floods within the last two years on top of a pandemic.

Ms Woods said one advantage of never having much issue with the Varroa Mite in the past means Australia can look at how other countries have managed outbreaks and incursions.

But one of the only ways to control the pest is by using chemicals within the hive, something Ms Woods said here in Australia beekeepers have never had to do, priding themselves on the more natural methods for beekeeping.

“This one is a management scenario. So once we have it as a country, we will manage it probably really similarly around the country, even if our areas don’t have it.

“It’s more thinking about the life cycle of the pest. So there will be times where it has an opportunity to breed quickly and other times that are slower and then the way we manage our brood in our beehive will be impacted.

“The impact will be potentially less bees at some time of the year when we want to be out foraging and the repercussion of that will be a lower ability for our hives to collect nectar and therefore, as beekeepers, a lower ability to have a higher yield.”

As part of a bee club with fellow beekeepers from the Yarra Ranges, Ms Woods said most people are feeling apprehensive about Varroa Mite.

“People are really worried about the ramifications of having to go from using no chemicals at the moment…to having to learn a whole new way to manage bee hives because of one particular mite.

“It can be quite overwhelming. So apprehensive and overwhelming would probably be the right words.”

Beekeepers or farmers looking for advice or who are looking for information on the Varroa Mite can contact the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881. mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Maiden speech for Violi

By Parker McKenzie Casey MP Aaron Violi used his first speech in Parliament on Tuesday 26 July to commend the community spirit of the region after the June 2021 storm weather event while calling for stronger educational outcomes and opportunities.

Mr Violi, who was elected to replace Tony Smith at the May 21 federal election, said Casey has been his family’s home since 1953 and his presence in parliament is an example of the extraordinary democracy in Australia.

“Antonino and Grazia Violi and their six children travelled halfway around the world, leaving behind their family and the safety of the known in search of a better life in Australia,” he said.

“They settled in the small country town of Silvan and established a farm to support their family. I often reflect on my grandparent’s story and try to imagine the courage and sacrifice it would have taken to make that journey and the hardships that they endured.”

He said his education at Lilydale Mercy College provided him with the opportunity to attend university and a pathway to starting a career in business in the Yarra Valley.

“Governments over the last 20 years have invested billions in education, while results have been going backwards. This is unacceptable not only on the societal level but most importantly at the individual level,” he said.

“A robust education system focused on educational outcomes and opportunities is the foundation of our society and the individual. It needs to be the priority of government policy on education.”

Mr Violi said a defining moment in his life was on 7 February 2009 during the Black Saturday bushfires.

“It was the moment I went from a carefree young man living like I would live forever to understanding that the most precious gifts we have are life and time,” he said.

Casey MP gave his first speech in parliament on Tuesday 26 July.

“The difference between Rachel and I being here today and being victims 174 and 175 was a matter of seconds and meters. Our story of Black Saturday is a story thousands of people who survived that day would understand.”

He said the community spirit built after one of the darkest days in the communities’ history was called upon again during the June 2021 storm weather event.

“While we were fortunate that no lives were lost, the storms destroyed many homes that have still not been rebuilt and left residents without power and communications for weeks

and months,” he said.

“The recovery from the storms continues and I stand with our community as we rebuild.”

Mr Violi said he wanted to be a voice for small businesses in parliament and highlighted the need to ensure legislation supports them and the digital economy. He said a strong and secure economy isn’t just delivering a balanced budget or economic growth, but it allows the government to invest in childcare, health, education, defence, aged care and other services that support all Australians.

Picture: PARLIAMENT OF AUSTRALIA He thanked his family, campaign team and the previous member Mr Smith.

“At this point, I want to acknowledge and thank the most important people in my life, my wife Rachel and my children Lewis and Georgie,” he said.

Mr Violi said he hopes when his time representing the people of Casey ends, he will be remembered as a member who stayed connected to and delivered for his community.

“Waste no more time talking about what a good politician should do, just be one.” Mr Violi finished.

Community’s voice unheard in peri-regional advocacy

By Renee Wood Concerns have been raised over Yarra Ranges Council’s lack of community consultation regarding the advocacy of becoming periregional.

Star Mail first reported in March on council’s desire to become peri-regional, uniting with Mornington Peninsula Shire to publish a report to support the reclassification.

However, it was only voted on by Councillors for an official response to the reclassification push being advocated for to the State Government in July.

During this time no community consultation has been conducted, raising concerns for residents.

Healesville resident and past councillor Jeanette McRae submitted questions to councillors before it was voted on at the ordinary council meeting highlighting the lack of community engagement.

Ms McRae said she doesn’t have a firm opinion on the reclassifications but the unknown of what it may mean for future planning is concerning.

“In what way was it done holistically?

Councillors who have said that at this stage it may create more funding opportunities, but down the track, it may lead to some better more appropriate planning outcomes - so what does that mean?” Ms McRae said.

“Is this just the first step in what could be incremental changes? I don’t know and that’s the whole point, I don’t know, the community doesn’t know - we should know.”

Ms McRae believes above all community should have been engaged with.

“The council has a community engagement policy and it outlines different layers of what consultation means - so is it just to inform at one end or whether it’s actually being active participants in the whole decision making process - none of that happened,” she said. mailcommunity.com.au

The advocacy for becoming peri-regional has concerns some residents with a lack of community consultation.

Picture: ON FILE The fact that the report was also submitted to the State Government prior to the councillors having voted on the advocacy has also raised concerns.

Cr Child stated in the meeting that the report had already been submitted and a letter was written to the state government alongside Mornington Peninsula Shire.

“Who made that decision that the advocacy would be for peri-regional status and it’s obviously happened before the official position was determined by council,” Ms McRae said.

“My background is in community development, it’s always been community at the centre and you need to be informed by com-

munity so that you can make those decisions, and how can you be making decisions when you haven’t bothered to find out what the community thinks?”

Council CEO Tammi Rose assured that becoming peri-regional would mean council, local businesses and community services would have broader access to funding programs and wouldn’t take away the metropolitan status as such.

“In its most simplest form, this status would better reflect that the municipality of Yarra Ranges comprises both metropolitan and regional communities and should have access to government programs and supports that acknowledge this,” Ms Rose said.

“A peri-regional status wouldn’t change Yarra Ranges’ metropolitan classification, and does not require any formal reclassification or rezoning, so there would be no direct impact on community, or on strategic land use planning.”

Ms Rose said as it’s an operational matter and council will continue to keep community informed of council’s advocacy direction and share openly the evidence that underpins it.

“This aligns with our Community Engagement Policy, and requirements of the Local Government Act, when there is no direct impact on community as result of a Council decision,” she said.

“The operational nature of this advocacy effort also means we were able to share the report with the Victorian Government prior to Council formally endorsing its position.

By opening the conversation with the state, we hope to gain access to the funding opportunities that our regional areas need as soon as possible.”

Ms Rose said council’s advocacy for periregional aligns to elements of the Council Plan, in particular its Community Vision and Values, which were developed through indepth engagement with the community.

“It also aligns with the input and feedback we’ve had through informal engagement touchpoints with community members and local businesses on this issue, including the Rural Advisory Committee and Business Leaders Roundtable,” she said.

The Business Leaders Roundtable group has representatives from the manufacturing, retail, agriculture, tourism, construction, education, employment, health and professional services industries and was established last year to provide technical advice, knowledge and support on issues impacting local businesses.

“Council’s decision to pursue advocacy for peri-regional status presents no change to Yarra Ranges’ formal classification or to Council’s strategic direction.”

Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

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HOMELESSNESS WEEK

More locals at risk

By Mikayla van Loon It’s the topic on everyone’s lips at the moment as the cost of living and rising rental prices continue to increase but it may just be the trigger in causing someone to become homeless.

Homelessness organisations in the Yarra Ranges, like Holy Fools, are concerned the cost of food, heating and petrol are pushing people to the brink this winter.

“We’re starting to hear that there’s more people at risk of homelessness now than ever due to mortgage stress or mental stress,” Holy Fools CEO Neal Taylor said.

“The cost of living is so high at the moment, it’s affecting a lot of people and there’s a real danger that we’re going to start to see more and more people, particularly families, hitting homelessness.”

Already starting to receive calls about where people can find food relief centres, Mr Taylor said people are now turning to food handouts and other meal services to survive.

“There’s a real need at the moment for additional help, especially where food is concerned for families.”

Mr Taylor said not only are free meal services available in the Yarra Ranges, projects like the community cupboard in Montrose and other Food is Free pantries have provided relief when people have needed essential items.

A return to seeing rough sleepers particularly in Lilydale but certainly elsewhere around the shire, has also become prevalent after the pandemic hotel accommodation ceased.

“We’ve seen more and more people and we were hearing of more and more people who are sleeping in the area,” Mr Taylor said.

“The idea that when the motels closed, that people found homes is not quite true because there does seem to be a bit more of an influx of people who are sleeping rough not only in the suburban areas but also the rural areas around the Yarra Ranges.”

Often, however, Mr Taylor said those who are sleeping rough choose locations off the beaten track to stay fairly hidden.

Lilydale Police station commander Mel Woods said police haven’t seen much of a

By Mikayla van Loon

Homelessness in the Yarra Ranges is seeing a shift with more people seeking food relief in the shire than ever before.

Picture: ON FILE spike in people sleeping rough and generally know who might be homeless in the area.

“With the cooler months, they also tend to come to our attention more quickly because they choose locations that may be warmer or closer to the city centre,” she said.

Victoria Police has a number of resources and organisations that officers can refer people to should they be needing help, whether that be for mental health, family violence or any other health and wellbeing concern.

Wanting to build a community friendly and approachable support system within the police, Ms Woods said she hopes people will engage with members and should anyone have concerns about someone’s safety or wellbeing, to contact Lilydale Police Station.

“Then we can send a unit out and it might take a couple of times of us checking on someone for them to trust us but we want to build that rapport with people,” she said.

“From there we can link people in with the right services to get them the support they need and essentially get them off the streets because we don’t want to see anyone sleeping rough.”

Mr Taylor said sometimes the simplest action of saying ‘hello’ to someone who may be going through a challenging time or sleeping rough can change everything.

“One of the biggest issues with being homeless is that you become forgotten and maybe society starts to ignore you. So anyone that can say ‘hello’, that’s a huge step forward,” he said.

While remaining cautious is always best, Mr Taylor said a hello may turn into a conversation, which may turn into buying someone a coffee and eventually that could lead to this person receiving some help.

“What we’re coming across now is there are a lot of people who aren’t aware of the help that is available and I guess that’s what we need to do, is start educating people that there is help available not only for the homeless but also if you’re struggling.”

Services available in the Lilydale include: Holy Fools: 1300 133 889, info@holyfools.org.au Anchor: 8761 9040, info@anchor.org.au CIS Yarra Ranges: 9735 1311, info@cisyarraranges.org.au The Mustard Tree: 9735 3500 Lilydale Police Station: 9739 2300

Food donations make all the difference

By Mikayla van Loon Access to food is a basic human right and services like The Mustard Tree Op Shop and Cafe’s foodbank are ensuring people from across the region eat well in times of crisis.

Operating Monday to Friday by appointment, the foodbank currently sees an average of 90 people a month, representing just themselves or an entire family.

In June, staff members saw a 25 per cent increase in the number of Emergency Food Relief appointments in comparison to May and were expecting similar numbers for July.

Op Shop operations manager Lisa Vincent said working alongside other organisations in the Yarra Ranges, often services will refer clients to each other to ensure they are getting the support they need.

“Every month there’s always a few regulars and a mix of new people because we’ve got the Lilydale Corrections so we provide assistance to people newly out of prison that need a little starter pack,” she said.

“There’s a few agencies in the area and we do refer back and forth a little bit. Some more focused on housing and some more focused on community engagement and some food.

So we all try to help each other out.”

Ms Vincent said during the pandemic lockdowns, the need for food seemed to decrease somewhat with people supported by the government but since that ended there have been different demographics of people presenting to the foodbank.

“Now that aid is slowing down and getting restructured, things are perhaps picking up a little bit and definitely with the rising cost of food that will have an impact.

“What’s been difficult for us is supply.

Sometimes we haven’t been able to get the things that we would normally be able to provide. So that’s been a challenge or something that we’ve noticed specific to now.”

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Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

How you can get involved

Husband and wife, Keith and Joyce Bailey, volunteer at The Mustard Tree Foodbank, just two of 80 volunteers from across the ministry.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON An emergency food relief service like this one, run as an extension of the Lilydale Baptist Church, Ms Vincint said is a critical part of each community, particularly when homelessness remains somewhat invisible.

“People find themselves, through no fault of their own, it might be a domestic violence situation, it might be a change in a loss of job but people find themselves in that position where they’re just unable,” she said.

“The perception of it might be that they are just homeless or struggling with mental illness or generally not able to cope but some of the people that come in here you just you wouldn’t even know [are struggling].”

Homelessness has been an issue in the Yarra Ranges Shire for quite a while now and Ms Vincent said mental health issues and drug addiction issues all feed into that growing need.

Being at the end of the train line and on “the cusp of city and country,” Ms Vincent said the foodbank services quite a large area, reach-

ing people who travel from the regional parts of the shire by public transport because the smaller towns perhaps can’t facilitate such a large relief centre.

In addition to food relief, Ms Vincent said The Mustard Tree hosts two free community meals each week and offers free haircuts once a month to the community in need, alongside shower facilities at the ministry office.

Thursday dinner – Foodstop free community dinner hosted by Discovery Church 6pm to 8pm.

Friday Lunch – Community Table hosted by Lilydale Baptist Church 12pm to 2pm First Monday (monthly) – free haircuts form Gail of Purple Mist Salon 12pm to 2pm Daily Foodbank service including a shower – Monday to Friday 10am to 2pm by appointment 9735 3500.

The Op Shop, Cafe and Foodbank can be found at 3/28 John St, Lilydale.

· · · · ·

National Homelessness Week kicked off on Monday, with local organisations hosting events to raise awareness about homelessness in the Yarra Ranges.

Holy Fools CEO Neal Taylor said while many events had been planned throughout the week of 1 to 7 August, some have had to be cancelled due to rising Covid infections.

“It’s been a journey because we had a whole bunch of things planned and we’ve just had to cancel stacks of them and make a few other changes because of Covid,” he said.

“We really can’t guarantee everyone’s safety…so we didn’t feel like it was appropriate.”

Nevertheless, Mr Taylor said the launch event would continue online with a live stream at 3pm on Monday 1 August, which could later be replayed should people miss the stream.

“The more the merrier of people who want to join in on Monday, just to hear from all of our local practitioners and people who are working with homelessness in the Yarra Ranges,” Mr Taylor said.

“So that’ll be the chance to listen to the speakers on Monday. It’d be good to just have people tune in and hear what they have to say and maybe learn a bit about what’s actually happening.”

Aiming to spread the message on homelessness, Mr Taylor said four banners will be positioned around the shire to make people aware of the week.

Alongside the normal Street Angels lunch that occurs every Wednesday, Mr Taylor said CIS Yarra Ranges will be providing a morning tea at its head office on Main Street.

“They’re having morning tea [from 10am] and then we’re going to do a sausage sizzle, which will be open to anyone.

“We’re going to move Street Angels over to CIS and hopefully that will get people talking about what’s going on.”

Mr Taylor said this year’s Homelessness Week theme of ‘To end homelessness we need a plan’ couldn’t be more timely for Holy Fools.

“It’s actually fitting in really well with Holy Fools. We have been working on revamping what our mission statement is, and our mission is now ‘to end homelessness in the Yarra Ranges by 2030’ in conjunction with our community and colleagues.”

To achieve this, Mr Taylor said there are two key things that need to happen: the first, a survey of all the organisations and services working in the homelessness sector and the second, a count of all the people sleeping rough. “[We need a] survey of all of the agencies to see what they actually do as far as homelessness is concerned and try to find out if there’s any gaps in the areas, any overabundance of services in areas or if there’s anything missing, “Then next year, we’re looking at doing a street count, trying to get more of an accurate picture of how many people are rough sleeping in the Yarra Ranges because at the moment we need the really hard, tangible, quantifiable data before we can actually start planning properly.

“So we love the idea that in homelessness, you need a plan and that’s part of our first step is to try and get the playing field worked out.”

To view the launch event, visit the Yarra Ranges Homelessness Week Facebook page. mailcommunity.com.au

HOMELESSNESS WEEK

It’s beyond ‘rooflessness’

By Tyler Wright Local organisation Foothills Community Care, based in Knox and the Yarra Ranges, is calling for community members to increase their awareness of homelessness and advocate for change at a local level as Australia enters annual Homelessness Week.

In Australia, there were over 116,000 people experiencing homelessness on any given night according to ABS census data released in 2016.

25,000 of those were Victorians, including 360 in Yarra Ranges.

For volunteer organisations such as Foothills Community Care who are part of crisis relief on a grassroots level, it is important to see every one of those 116,000 people as humans and not as a statistic.

“Homelessness is a problem that goes beyond ‘rooflessness’ and a lack of access to safe shelter,” Foothills Community Care CEO Stephen Barrington said.

“The experience of homelessness includes vulnerable people living in refuges, crisis accommodation or in temporary housing, boarding houses, couch surfing, as well as rough sleeping, ie on the streets, in cars, in tents etc,” Mr Barrington said.

Foothills Community Care holds weekly community meal nights at Upwey Community Baptist Church on Monday nights and the Ferntree Gully Guides Hall on Wednesday nights.

Mr Barrington said the community meals may be the only meal attendees have in a week where they can “sit down at a table in a safe nurturing environment with others and have a healthy nutritious meal, while chatting with others as they build positive connections”.

“For some, our weekly community meals are safe havens for people who might be sleeping rough, in tents, in our national parks, in their cars, in local boarding houses,” Mr Barrington said.

“It is not uncommon to have ten or more people who are homeless come along to one of our weekly community meals.”

Foothills Community Care provides fresh fruit and vegetables into some local boarding houses and has delivered over 15,000 food parcels in the past 12 months to those in crisis accommodation.

The organisation links people into other local services such as health, financial counselling/planning, domestic violence support and legal supports where necessary.

“We have been told that we are a homelessness preventer.... in that, many people may be just one pay packet away from facing eviction from their rental or even loss of their mortgage. We have seen this multiplied over the past couple of years, with loss of income and

Foothills Community Care holds two meal nights each week; one in Ferntree Gully on a Wednesday night and in Upwey on a Monday night.

Pictures: BRON FLUTTERBY the sharp rise in cost of living,” Mr Barrington said.

With limited capacity in what it can provide, Foothills Community Care Program Coordinator Shannon Kay is calling for the community to get involved.

“Our motto is that ‘everybody is welcome at our table’, and that literally means everyone so we’d love to see more community members down on a Monday in Upwey or Wednesday in Ferntree Gully, we have the mentality that we are all in it together, rather than an ‘us’ and ‘them’ attitude where a volunteer comes to help, or somebody in need comes to receive, but that we all contribute and we all benefit from showing up and creating a safe space together, sharing a meal and getting to know one another,” Ms Kay said.

“We really encourage people to come along and join us.”

Chuck Page, who coordinates Foothills Community Casseroles meals delivery program, said it’s great to see people from throughout the eastern suburbs coming up to lend a hand washing dishes on meals nights, and we are fortunate enough even to have trained chefs even share their expertise.

“It’s really amazing what these volunteers

Foothills Community Care has served over 42,000 fresh meals throughout the past 12 months. are capable of. But we’re always open to having more folks walking through the door to help,” Mr Page said.

For more information and to learn about volunteering roles, visit https://www.foothillscare.org.au/.

Yarra Ranges groups consider food relief grant program

By Mikayla van Loon Homelessness and other support services from across the Yarra Ranges are considering applying for a newly released State government grant program aiming to provide food relief.

Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Colin Brooks announced last week the $1.25 million pop-up food relief markets trial program in response to the rising cost of living.

“We are ensuring our communities can provide nourishing meals for their families – because no Victorian should worry about having enough to eat,” he said.

“With this assistance, food relief organisations across the state will be able to continue their important work getting food on the tables of those most in need in our community.”

Lilydale’s Mustard Tree Op Shop operations manager Lisa Vincent said having been in discussion with other service providers in the area, a cohort of organisations are thinking about applying for the grants.

“It’s doable and we’re pretty well set up here. All we would have to do is find the dates and we could utilise the car park in the evenings and get the volunteers to do it. mailcommunity.com.au

“But at the same time, it’s a matter of finding the time now to commit to that planning stage, to be able to get that off the ground.

“So I think the way the shire have marketed it is good because it’s a collaboration and they say, ‘why don’t you all get together and form a committee and we’ll do one for the region’, which I think could really work and someone will lead it and we’ll be able to get on board and support their idea.”

Organisations can apply for grants that will support them to provide food tailored to local cultural preferences across metropolitan Melbourne.

The program includes grants for small projects – up to $25,000 to run a minimum of four markets over a two-month period – and large projects – up to $85,000 for groups of organisations to run a minimum of 10 markets in partnership over six-months.

The grants can be used by organisations to cover operating costs and food supplies.

Applications opened on 20 July and will close on 17 August.

Email the Food Relief team Foodrelief.

Team@dhhs.vic.gov.au for more information or visit https://www.vic.gov.au/pop-foodrelief-market-grants

The State government has opened a new grant program for pop up food relief markets.

Picture: UNSPLASH Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

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MAIL 9

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

John’s exhibit honoured

By Jamie Salter & Tyler Wright The Emerald Arts Society held the official opening of the second John Dudley Portrait Prize art exhibition at the Hills Hub in Emerald on the evening of Friday 22 July.

The opening was a great success with around 70 people in attendance, Emerald Arts Society president Glenn Hambleton said.

“There was a real buzz of excitement in the room with many of the exhibiting artists and their sitters eagerly awaiting the judges’ decision,” Glenn said.

There were 57 entries in this year’s exhibition hanging in the Hills Hub upstairs gallery.

Cardinia Shire for supported the Emerald Arts Society with a grant to hold the exhibition.

Nick Dudley, son of the late John Dudley, was also in attendance with the Dudley family the sole sponsor of the event and committing to another four years of sponsorship.

This will enable the Emerald Arts Society to keep the exhibition growing.

The calibre of entries was extremely high, and the invited Judge Cathy Van Ee had a very difficult job in choosing the top ten finalists and then the overall winner, Glenn said.

Cathy chose local artist Janine Good for her painting titled ‘A Day In The Life - Professor Damian Kingsbury.’

“One of the pleasing things was that we had entries come in from other states as well and that two from NSW were finalists. Our aim is to grow this VIP exhibition honouring the late John Dudley nationally and make it one of the most important Portrait prizes in Australia,” Glenn said.

John Dudley was president of the Emerald Arts Society before he passed away.

Some of the top ten finalists in the John Dudley Portraiture Prize exhibition with John’s son, Nick Dudley. (back right).

Pictures: SUPPLIED “He was involved in different art groups around the community and beyond. This John Dudley exhibition is showcasing the ‘Portraits of Emerald’ to commemorate him,” Emerald Arts Society committee member Wendy Lindrea said.

The work of the ten finalists will continue to be exhibited at the Hills Hub until 14 August and will then be moved to the Cardinia Cultural Centre where they will be on exhibited until 18 September.

The Emerald Arts Society was extremely

Portraiture prize exhibition winner Janine Good with her painting titled ‘A Day In The Life Professor Damian Kingsbury.’ pleased with the attendance and will continue to use these facilities going forward.

This venue has already been booked for the Annual Arts Exhibition being held in October/ November over the Melbourne Cup long weekend.

Former architect brings ‘My Melbourne’ to the Hills hub

By Tyler Wright Retired architect and resident of The Patch Aldo Bellemo is bringing his series of paintings named ‘My Melbourne’ to the Hills Hub in Emerald from Tuesday 16 August until Saturday 3 September.

Aldo reflects on what he calls the unbelievable development of Melbourne over the past 20 years.

“I look into Melbourne from a retired architect’s perspective,” Aldo said.

“How buildings impact on their immediate surroundings and on the city itself. How old and new stand side by side. Do they fulfill their purpose?

Do they change the historical character of the street? Are they inviting, welcoming the ones who use them? Does the human get lost in this new environment?”

Aldo’s inspiration came back in around 2017 when reading an article in The Age. Abbotsford residents had posed concerns over plans to build a high-rise building set to block the iconic ‘Skipping Girl Vinegar Sign’ from view.

In an effort reflect these concerns Aldo went to the site with sketches, took photos and went back to his studio to create a painting.

“I’ve done a big hole in front of the building of the skipping girl, and then I drew another girl dressed like a skipping girl on the footpath,” Aldo said.

“The second skipping girl [is] walking away from the building on the footpath and she’s asking, ‘where am I going to skip now?

“I made a point. Because a lot of people in Abbotsford were not happy that this multistorey building was gone to hide this iconic thing like the skipping girl.”

Since then, Aldo has painted old and new buildings from the RMIT campus on Swanston Street, families along the Yarra River’s Princes Bridge and the Royal Melbourne Hospital; some even incorporating characters Arlechino from Bergamo, Pulcinella 10 MAIL

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Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

15th century Italian comedic character ‘The Doctor’ painted into the 21st century Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, making sick people laugh with a comically long nose.

Aldo Bellemo in his studio in The Patch. from Naples and the Doctor from Bologna, comedians originating from Italy in the 15th century.

“They all have a purpose next to the buildings. For instance Arlechino in ‘This space suits me’ is amazed by the interior of Federation Square. The volume of this space; colourful like he is and irregular impresses him so much that he finds this place irresistible. It suits him. And so on,” Aldo said.

Aldo also used books about period houses in the colonial period in Melbourne to accurately depict the original architect’s technique in his own paintings.

“I do look at the different types of columns; the Corinthian column, the Doric column,” Aldo said.

“When I did the library of Melbourne (State Library), I had to look at the detail;

Pictures: SUPPLIED those columns there from technical books, because I just wanted to do the right thing.

I didn’t want to draw a column of that period building which gives me another history behind it, I just wanted to stick to the details that that column is all about.”

Aldo has previously exhibited his work in galleries including Quadrant Gallery and Gallery Elysium in Hawthorn.

Having already sold 11 paintings from ‘My Melbourne,’ it is hoped these will be displayed digitally while roughly 23 other paintings will be available for sale at the exhibition.

“I’m quite sure the viewers will see them from many other perspectives. That’s the beauty of art,” Aldo said.

The Hills Hub is located at 402 BelgraveGembrook Rd, Emerald VIC 3782.

Aldo’s work ‘I’m Here, Where are You?’ set at Federation Square.

‘The New RMIT’ contrasting the modern Swanston Academic Building opened in 2012, next to the Oxford Scholar Hotel, established in 1957 during the Victorian gold rush. mailcommunity.com.au

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Tonkin’s treasured works

By Tyler Wright A Dandenong Ranges artist has won the 24th People’s Choice Award at the 2022 Salon des Refuses: The alternative Archibald & Wynne Prize selection exhibition.

Mary Tonkin’s landscape oil on linen work ‘Hot Kiss, Kalorama’ was among 17 works selected from the Wynne Prize in addition to 38 works selected from the Archibald Prize.

Mary’s work was painted entirely outside in bush on her family’s farm in Kalorama during late summer and early autumn 2021.

The painting is named after a particular kiss; the “somewhat shattering tingle and sparkle of which seemed alive in the forms as I painted them,” Mary said.

“The director of the gallery said that this is the first time [the People’s Choice Award] had been awarded to a landscape, which is I thought was rather delightful,” Mary said.

“It’s interesting culturally that there might be a shift away from this obsession with famous people or people in general towards the landscape, which I think will be healthy.”

National law firm Holding Redlich presented Mary with the award at the National Trust’s S.H. Ervin Gallery in Sydney.

Holding Redlich’s Sydney Managing Partner, Stephen Trew, said it was an honour to recognise Mary for her art.

“Mary’s work draws your attention as soon as you enter the room,” Stephen said.

The Salon des Refuses was initiated by the S.H. Ervin Gallery in 1992 in response to the large number of works entered into the Archibald Prize which were not selected for display in the official exhibition.

It has since become a much-anticipated event among Sydney’s thriving arts scene.

‘Hot Kiss, Kalorama’ was inspired by a sparkle in the landscape which reminded her of a kiss she shared many years ago.

Kalorama resident Mary Tonkin (left) was presented with the 24th People’s Choice Award at the 2022 Salon des Refusés: The alternative Archibald & Wynne Prize selection exhibition. Mary is pictured alongside (L to R) Ian Robertson, National Managing Partner at Holding Redlich, Stephen Trew, Managing Partner at Holding Redlich and Jane Watters, Director, S.H. Ervin Gallery Sydney.

Pictures: SUPPLIED The exhibition and People’s Choice Award is an annual event, with the winner voted by visitors to the National Trust’s S.H. Ervin Gallery in Sydney.

Holding Redlich has been a proud sponsor of the exhibition’s People’s Choice Award at the Salon des Refuses exhibition for the past 24 years.

Stephen said Holding Redlich is proud of its longest-standing arts partnership with the Salon des Refuses exhibition and strong support for the arts nationally.

“Our firm’s founder Peter Redlich loved, and was an advocate for, the arts. It’s wonderful to acknowledge our heritage and continue his passion through our ongoing partnership with the S.H. Ervin Gallery,” Stephen said.

While Mary’s work has been exhibited before, it was the first time her work had been hung in the Salon des Refuses.

“I was delighted to be hung even in the Refuses and to win it was just extra special,” Mary said.

“I grew up at Kalorama. I grew up on the farm where I work, so it’s home and it’s private land I have access to so I can work in an uninterrupted way.

“It is home in every sense. I just adore that bush, so it’s a constant source of joy [and] a constant delight.”

New film focuses on local musicians and performers

By Tyler Wright Performers and musicians who identify with a disability have had their talent and skills displayed in a new film presented by the Dandenong Ranges Music Council based in Upwey.

‘Music with Attitude - the Movie!’ was initially planned as a stage production, but with the pandemic shaking up those plans, the focus shifted onto producing a solo documentary instead.

The DRMC headquarters and rehearsal spaces became the setting for interviews with members of groups Ad Hoc Rock and Full Mental Jacket and performances of original songs by the artists.

Andrea Woodberry has been a member of the band Ad Hoc Rock for ten years and has previously been involved in the DRMC’s ‘Snow White and the 7 Amazing Personalities’ music theatre production.

Ad Hoc Rock’s performance of ‘I Want you to SEE Who I Am,’ with words written by Andrea, is played over ‘Music with Attitude - the Movie!’’s rolling credits, including lyrics such as these: ‘So what if I look different, or do not sound like you’d expect.

So what if I don’t walk or talk at all.

I am me and I am proud to be me.’

“People with disabilities are capable of playing music…we’re more capable than people think we are, I think,” Andrea said.

Filmmaker and director Rainsford Towner said the film is a powerful statement on how disabilities are reflected in society.

“Brian [from Full Mental Jacket] talks in the documentary about how yes, they are a band of musicians that happen to have an intellectual disability, but that’s not really how they want to be identified,” Rainsford said.

“First of all, they want to be identified as a band and musicians playing great music that just happen to have a disability. But quite often, as [Brian] says in the documentary, that turns around on them a little bit and they tend to be identified as a group of people who idenmailcommunity.com.au

Full Mental Jacket members come together ready for a big blues number in ‘Music with Attitude - The Movie!’. tify with a mental disability who play music, which is not how they want to be seen.

But by the same token, that relationship helps us understand what is the experience of their lives, and I think through through that intimacy that they have, and they give us, in the documentary, we can begin to create a deeper understanding for that” The documentary was screened in two free events at The Memo in Healesville on Saturday 30 July and the Arts Centre Warburton on Sunday 31 July after being premiering at Belgrave’s Cameo Cinemas in April.

Rainsford said the premiere was a “landmark screening” for those performers who had never seen themselves on the big screen.

“It’s opened the door for people who really didn’t know that this documentary was being made in some ways, and it’s taken off a little bit, [there’s] increasing interest in the documentary.

“I’ve got quite a few calls from different

organizations around Victoria, who would like to access the documentary, having heard about it, so I think that’s fantastic,” Rainsford said.

Ad Hoc Rock are currently looking for another male vocalist to complement their female vocalists, a bass player and Rhythm/ lead guitarist to join their ranks.

Practice is held on Friday afternoons in the Ringwood area and is currently acoustic only, so members are asked to bring their own instruments.

If you are a music lover and live with a disability, you can contact Ad Hoc Rock for more information through email: contactadhocrock@gmail.com or messaging through their Facebook site: https://www.facebook.com/adhoc.rock.79 For a snapshot of the songs played by Ad Hoc Rock, visit https://drive.google.com/ file/d/1LdaFs7vDScNrkMYR56IdufcWsSaar Pnd/view?ts=62c19f8e

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Andrea Woodberry from Ad Hoc Roc singing her song ‘I Want you to SEE Who I Am’.

Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

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MAIL 11

MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Picture: SHUTTERSTOCK

Physiotherapist Ben Croxford leads the team at Form & Practice Mt Evelyn and Olinda.

How to treat your pain Osteoarthritis is a major cause of chronic pain, disability and activity limitation in modern Australia.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, around 1/11 Australians have osteoarthritis and the waitlists for joint replacement surgery are only getting longer.

As a physiotherapist, I treat people with osteoarthritis every day and I understand very well the challenges it presents.

So, what actually is osteoarthritis? Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, and it is characterised by the wearing away of cartilage in a joint – most commonly the hips,

knees, spine and hands. This changes a joint’s congruency (shape) and can lead to pain, inflammation/swelling and loss of movement.

Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about osteoarthritis.

Whilst it is caused by many unavoidable factors such as age, genetics and old injuries, the most common causes of osteoarthritis are actually being overweight and having a sedentary lifestyle.

Which means the opposite – exercise and a healthy lifestyle – are the best treatments for osteoarthritis. Literally – the best treatments!

That’s not just my opinion, that’s a fact that’s

been well established by countless research trials.

Too many people rush off to get costly and painful joint replacement surgeries with a lengthy recovery without adequately trialling the substantial benefits of exercise therapy.

Appropriate exercise for an osteoarthritic joint is safe, does not further damage the joint (in fact it prevents further damage) and improves pain, function and quality of life.

It’s also cheaper and easier than surgery – which should only be utilised as the last resort.

Physiotherapists are experts in prescribing safe and appropriate exercise for people

with all degrees of osteoarthritis and can give practical advice on pain management strategies and healthy lifestyle tips. It might be a bit of hard work initially, but the benefits are extraordinary.

Osteoarthritic joint pain can improve without surgery. You just need to get out there and keep moving!

Ben Croxford is a Physiotherapist and leads the team at Form & Practice Mt Evelyn and Olinda.His writings explore his favourite health topics, challenge common myths and aim to empower you to take control of your own health.

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MEDICALLY SPEAKING

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Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

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MAIL 13

NEWS

Time to have your say on skate park

By Tyler Wright Cardinia Shire Council has allocated $150,000 to undertake a detailed design of the Worrell Reserve youth plaza and skate park in Emerald.

Passionate skaters, BMX, and scooter riders are now being invited to have their say on the proposed youth plaza and skate park after the endorsement of the Worrell Reserve Masterplan in June 2020.

Emerald Village Exercise and Recreation (EVER) group member Vanessa Kewish has been pushing for a safe recreational space for children in Emerald after discovering young kids creating unsafe makeshift ramps to entertain themselves.

EVER established a fundraiser for a ‘Pop Up Skatepark’ in September last year which raised almost $6,000.

Now the focus is on encouraging those interested to have their say on the project.

“It would be really good if they could separate like the ball space away from the skating space,” Ms Kewish said.

“I’m seeing lots of comments because it’s largely online... lots of mature skaters [saying] there really needs to be a skater’s skate bowl.”

I’ve sent an email out to all the schools... that might be likely to use the skatepark and ask them in their computer classes, if they could ask the kids to fill [the feedback form] out there You don’t have to submit your email address, you don’t have to like write who you are, you just have to say your postcode.”

The call for feedback comes after the James Merlino PM announced $1 million from the Victorian Governmen towards the skatepark and youth recreation space on Friday 6 May. Cardinia Shire Council said the Victorian Government funding is subject to an agreement application by the council.

The Worrell Reserve youth plaza and skate park will provide the community with a family friendly multi use recreation space for skateboarding, BMX, and scooter riding.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Jeff Springfield is encouraging the community to have their say on the Worrell Reserve youth plaza and skate park in Emerald.

“This is your chance to help shape the new youth plaza and skate park to support increased use and overall enjoyment of the park

by locals,” Cr Springfield said.

“We want to hear what you would like to see included in the project and hear about how you would use it into the future. This information will be key to developing the draft concept plans for the new youth plaza and skate park.”

Cr Springfield said the Emerald community, through the support of key community groups, has been “instrumental” in seeking local and state government funding to bring forward the youth plaza and skate park element of the masterplan.

“This project will improve access to sporting and social recreation opportunities for the children and young people of Emerald as well as the surrounding Hills community,” he said.

Community consultation will close on 14 August 2022.

Cardinia Shire Council will conduct further community engagement as the project progresses and will come back to the community to seek feedback on the proposed concept design once it has been created.

To have your say on this project, visit www. cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay

Become an advocate in local committees

By Callum Ludwig Yarra Ranges Council is making a push to recruit new community members to their Health and Wellbeing (HWAC) and Disability (DAC) Advisory Committees, with the HWAC being completely revised.

The HWAC has been in operation since 2017 and helped advise Yarra Ranges Council on their 2021-25 Health and Wellbeing Plan, and the DAC has been in action since 2013.

Councillor Richard Higgins, who was the Chair of the HWAC from 2017 to 2020, said in the July 26 Council meeting that this item is a strengthening of the 2021-25 Health and Wellbeing Plan.

“The historical committee that has been in place have done an absolutely fantastic job, they are totally committed and professional in what they have done. The reason for this motion is they have actually established there is a bit of a lack of community members,” he said.

“The current committee consists predominantly of healthcare professionals, and they have done a fantastic job, but we need to get our community involved and set up a community-led Health and Wellbeing Committee, assisted by those professionals who will be around in a Professional Network” The newly-revised Committee will include the Executive Officer of Health and Wellbeing, additional Council officers, and up to twelve community representatives, together with Councillor Sophie Todorov who will be retained from her previous involvement in the original Committee, which she has chaired since 2020.

Councillor Andrew Fullagar spoke to the motion as well, having been on the original Committee as a Hills community representative before his election this year.

“This panel has an important job in bringing outside voices to Council’s Health and Wellbeing policy, and what we are doing here is changing the structure so we have more community input,” he said.

“They will help to monitor the achievements of the Health and Wellbeing Plan and it’s objectives. I now encourage community members to come forward and volunteer, it’s really rewarding, I got a lot of value out of being on the Committee for a number of years, the experience and knowledge I got out of it was invaluable.”

No councillors spoke against the motion and it was carried unanimously.

The DAC’s members serve a four-year term and there are new opportunities for the 20222026 term.

Councillor Len Cox OAM said he was privi14 MAIL

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Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

Yarra Ranges Council is seeking community members to join their Health and Wellbeing and Disability Advisory Committees.

Picture: ON FILE leged to be a part of the DAC for the 8 years since its inception.

“It’s been a great experience for me and the people on this Committee. It is comprised of people with a disability, people who are carers of people with a disability and people who are in the business of caring for people with a disability,” he said.

“There’s a lot of experience in this Committee from all different angles and they are there to help Council make decisions to help people with disabilities. I think this Committee has been a terrific success, they’ve given Council some good advice and Council has certainly picked up a lot of that advice and ran with it in various different programs.”

A special thank you has been addressed to June Smith and Cliff West who have completed two consecutive four-year terms on the DAC. Cr Cox said the people on the DAC have been real stars in giving advice on people with disabilities and the problems associated with them.

“I don’t know who will want to run for another four years and I don’t know who else will put their hand up but I’m really looking forward to forming the new Committee and going on to the future and working with them to give Council all the help they need on issues with disabilities,” he said.

“June Smith and Cliff West have been extremely helpful, both people with a disability

and they are very knowledgeable and it’s been a great pleasure to work with them.”

A balanced representation of people with disability, unpaid carers and service providers will be attempted to be achieved among the new members, but no person can serve more than two consecutive terms. Applications will be shortlisted and interviewed by a panel including a person with lived experience of disability and the Council’s Disability Inclusion Officer.

Cr Higgins spoke to the motion and said this Committee is one of the most essential committees Yarra Ranges Council has.

“These people’s insight into the disability issues in our projects throughout Council from the urban areas to the rural areas, and every time they come up with something that makes our projects better or reinforces that we are travelling in the right direction with our disability protocols,” he said.

“Without them, I’m sure we’d be missing many things that need to be fixed or rectified, they are just invaluable. Thank you to June and Cliff for the fantastic contributions to this Committee, I hope they have fun with a little bit of a rest and I’m sure they will be in the background somewhere giving us their thoughts on little bits and pieces because that’s the type of people they are.”

No councillors spoke against the motion and it was carried unanimously.

Plenty on at Emerald U3A

By Jamie Salter Table tennis, language lessons and wine appreciation don’t have much in common but they can all be found at the same place thanks to the members of Emerald U3A. U3A connects seniors with their local community to form lifelong friendships, learn new skills, and enjoy retirement together.

Emerald U3A marketing manager Heather Bishop said U3A helped her transition to retirement.

“I wasn’t born in the town and when you’re retiring everybody has an adjustment period to get used to the fact that we’ve got to plan a decent life for ourselves whereas before, you had the purpose to make money to get the things you want in life,” she said.

“Joining the U3A Emerald was a way to make friends with a dynamic group and I found they were my kind of people.

“All the classes are reliant on a community member stepping up and leading a class.”

Italian language class teachers Delores and Aldo Bellemo have been teaching for 14 years.

“We love the students - they’re so interested and nice and that’s why we keep doing it but unfortunately due to Covid-19 our numbers have dwindled,” Mrs Bellemo said.

“We used to have about 16 members now we have about seven and it would be good to have more people.”

They said in the past, the class has been a great way to learn a new skill, with the opportunity to visit Brunetti’s in the city and speak Italian while ordering, as well as an overseas trip to Italy and a Christmas feast at the Bellemo’s house.

“They love the language, they love the culture and that’s the type of students we love to have,” Mr Bellemo said.

Table Tennis group leader Ray Schmidt said U3A was formed on three pillars - getting exercise to keep the body fit, keeping the mind active and socialisation.

“We play table tennis which is the activity part and we do a lot of socialising at the cafe afterwards,” Mr Schmidt said.

“We had a new member come in and everyone took her under their wings and accommodates her, it’s an absolutely fantastic environment and everyone enjoys it so much.

“At our age people get lonely and they’re not getting that work environment anymore, so that’s why U3A is so important.”

Emerald U3A is always open to new members and is encouraging more men to get involved.

Table tennis group leader Ray Schmidt is encouraging locals to get involved. 290724 mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Helping families in crisis

By Tyler Wright The Patch Store is currently welcoming nappy donations as part of the annual campaign run

by The Nappy Collective to distribute disposable sanitary items to families in crisis.

The campaign launched on Monday 18 July and the general store has already received a box full of donations with seven nappy packets joined by some loose items.

“We have had community members head to the shops after seeing our box for collection and purchase nappies to donate and have also had local parents donating nappies their kids no longer fit or have use for,” The Patch Store team member Romy Schauble said.

“As a drop in place for many members of our community it is a perfect place to have set up as a collection point during the July Nappy Collective Campaign to support families in need,” Ms Schauble said.

According to The Nappy Collective, 1 in 10 families in Australia can not afford the nappies they need for their babies.

Without access to nappies, children may be left in existing underwear for too long; causing distress, discomfort and infections.

And with the rising cost of living, The Nappy Collective said the problem is set to get worse.

“A lack of access to clean nappies may be due to issues of financial hardship, homelessness or escaping domestic violence, or those impacted by natural disasters, such as the recent flooding we have seen in New South Wales and Queensland,” CEO of The Nappy Collective Sarah Witty said.

“Every child deserves a clean, healthy, and stable start to their day with a clean nappy.”

The Nappy Collective’s goal to provide 1 million nappies to children and families experiencing ‘nappy stress’ across Australia as a result of the campaign.

Rinny and Madi from The Patch Store with nappies ready for donation for The Nappy Collective. 290718 Some of the 230 drop off points across Victoria include selected ANZ bank branches, Ripe Maternity clothing stores, dozens of early childcare education and maternal health centres.

The following donations are being accepted: Newly purchased disposable nappies Leftover, opened packets of disposable nap-

· ·

pies that are no longer needed — such as when a child outgrows their nappy size Disposable swim nappies Nappy pants For the full list of collection points, visit https://www.thenappycollective.com/nappycollection-points

· ·

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS If you can not find a drop-off point in your area or would prefer to donate virtually, visit https://thenappycollective.raisely.com/donate The Patch Store will be collecting donations until Friday 5 August.

The Patch Store is located at 16 The Patch Rd, The Patch VIC 3792.

Upper Ferntree Gully Fire Brigade hunting for recruits

By Tyler Wright The Upper Ferntree Gully CFA Fire Brigade is holding a recruitment drive to attract new members after losing volunteers since the beginning of the pandemic.

Held in the outside and inside area of Maxi Foods on Burwood Highway in Ferntree Gully on Saturday 13 August, Upper Ferntree Gully Fire Brigade Captain Peter Smith will be looking to draw in at least half a dozen new recruits.

The brigade currently has 35 and 40 members, but Peter said more are needed to attend the almost 200 callouts it receives annually.

“There’s been a lot of things that have added up to having a look at [new] members; we’re a pretty stable group, but we need to add on to it,” Peter said.

“You lose one you’ve got to gain two to keep changing over because not everybody stays...we need to replenish up again.”

Getting involved in volunteering for the CFA does not only involve getting on the back of a truck and turning out to fires.

“We’ve also got roles with secretaries and treasurers and community safety,” Community Engagement Coordinator for CFA’s District 13 Headquarters Tarryn Campbell said.

“We need operational members to turn out to jobs and incidents but anyone that’s willing to put their name forward and have a conversation with the brigade and see if it’s the right fit for them, they’re definitely looking for more people.

We usually have a role that will suit anybody that’s willing to put their name forward.”

On the day of the recruitment drive a hazard kitchen with a stimulated stovetop will also be used to demonstrate how to safely use a fire blanket and avoid kitchen fires; an issue prevalent within the Ferntree Gully community. “[In 2020] we had three kitchen fires in a matter of about four weeks… so this is a very handy bit of apparatus for us to use that actually stimulates what happens,” Peter said. mailcommunity.com.au

Upper Ferntree Gully CFA Fire Brigade captain Peter Smith is on the hunt for new recruits. 291416

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

amount of these has increased locally.

“Whether it’s candles when [people] lose power, being at home more often, heaters [being] used more frequently, open fires in winter, [we’re] just making sure we’re sending those educational messages out to people to do the right thing,” she said.

Anyone, despite their gender or background, can volunteer for the CFA. “You get so many skills from volunteering and safety, there’s training opportunities, leadership opportunities, personal and pro-

fessional development opportunities that you get through volunteering - so you don’t just you’re not just giving all of your time for nothing in return, you’re helping that community but you also can improve your own personal skill sets,” Tarryn said.

If those interested can not attend the recruitment drive from 8:00am to 1:00pm on Saturday 13 August, more information on volunteering for the CFA is available via https:// www.cfa.vic.gov.au/volunteers-careers/volunteer-with-cfa

“I think it’d be good for some of the kids even to have a look at it and say ‘hey, this is not good’.

“Teenagers are now cooking stuff for themselves and Upper Ferntree Gully is an older community; a lot of [people] wouldn’t have even heard of a fire blanket... It at all coincides with hopefully getting people involved and wanting to do something. And that’s where the recruiting part of it comes in.”

Tarryn said across Victoria there are about 3000 house fires a year on average and an

Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

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MAIL 15

NEWS

Grateful for cottage home

By Tyler Wright Gifted to Cardinia Shire Council by the Tasmanian Government in 1984 after the Ash Wednesday Bushfire in 1983, the Cockatoo Cottages are still making a difference to the lives of local seniors decades on.

The five individual units on McBride Street have since been available to residents over 65 years of age, or 50 years of ago if the tenant is an Indigenous Australia, who require support for housing based on financial or health status.

Brett Barker was working at a Cockatoo RSL working bee about eight years ago when he fell backwards onto a tree stump and badly fractured his back.

After a lengthy stay in hospital and now with a walking frame, Mr Barker could not return to the home he lived in with family due to 45 large steps from the drive to the house entrance.

“Councillor at the time Leticia Wilmot saw my need in advance and arranged for me to apply for a cottage. If I hadn’t been granted a cottage I would probably have had to go and live in a care residence,” Mr Barker said.

With rent calculated at 25 per cent of accessible income and a refundable $100 bond payable at the commencement of tenancy, Mr Barker said this is a low rent equivalent to Housing Commission.

“The best thing that has happened to me in my senior years has been getting this cottage which is also within walking distance to everything I need,” he said.

The site of the Cockatoo Cottages is Crown Land with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) as Land Manager and Cardinia Shire Council as the Crown Land Administrator.

“While Council does not normally play a direct role in the provision of housing, we are keen to see additional seniors’ housing provid-

Brett Barker and neighbour Matt Steckel, residents at the Cockatoo Cottages on McBride Street. ed to meet the needs of our senior residents,” Cardinia Shire Council’s General Manager of Liveable Communities, Lili Rosic said.

“In addition to the Cockatoo Cottages, Council owns five self-contained fully accessible units in Pakenham.

Both properties in Pakenham and Cockatoo continue to have a waiting list for tenants from the surrounding community. All residents who have expressed interest have been provided

with support and information to ensure they are supported while on this wait list,” Ms Rosic said.

Cardinia Shire Council also maintains mowing and gardening for the units and has developed a seven year Social and Affordable Housing Strategy outlining how it will work with local agencies towards increasing access to diverse, high quality, sustainable and affordable housing in response to the needs of a

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS growing and diverse community.

For more information, you can download the Social and affordable housing strategy from Cardinia Shire Council’s website, where there is more information on where to find assistance with housing or services.

The council also works alongside service providers such as Ermha and Wayys who are the funded housing and homelessness support services within Cardinia Shire.

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·

prox.) property with sweeping drive updated kitchen with stone · Impressively benchtops and quality appliances room, home cinema, and lounge · Family with balcony with treetop views · Beautiful bedrooms including main with enviable ensuite and walk-in robe ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 10 Tavistock Road, MONBULK Description: 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,050,000-$1,140,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Brad Conder 0422 639 115, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE, 97546888

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

Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

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MAIL 17

PROPERTY NEWS

END OF AN ERA FOR MIKE FLEMING DANDENONG Ranges Community Bank Group Chair, Deb Weber, announced the end of an era with the retirement of the company’s Senior Group Manager, Mike Fleming. “Mike has played an integral part in the company’s formation and growth over the past 24 years, and we are sad to see him retire. However, we are so pleased that we’ve managed to hang onto him as long as we have. So many milestones have happened since the company formed back in 1998 when Mike was appointed Upwey branch manager for the newly formed Bendigo Bank Community Bank model.

Upwey branch was the first urban branch and second Community Bank company formed in Australia. It was a new era in banking, bringing banking back to towns that had been deserted by the major banks”.

“We have developed and grown over the years with the establishment of branches in Belgrave and Cockatoo and have relationships with Agencies in Emerald and Marysville. We have customers from far and wide and many close to home, and we have Mike to thank for a great number of these relationships due to his down to earth, no-nonsense approach to helping people achieve their personal and business financial goals. Many milestones have been achieved along the way, with now well over $500 million in business, $6 million given back to our communities and great staff who continue to service the banking needs of our customers,” Ms. Weber said.

Mike retired on 28 July, and taking up the reins of the Senior Group Manager role is Mick Spruhan. Mick has worked alongside Mike over the past two and a half years as Senior Business Development Manager and is looking forward to continuing the relationships built over many years, as well as developing new ones. Mick has an extensive banking history and is also a local who has lived in Belgrave for over 30 years. ●

Mick Spruhan and Mike Fleming.

12560895-HC31-22

18 MAIL

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Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

mailcommunity.com.au

Real Estate you can trust!

We ’ r e h e r e t o h e l p FOR SALE

10 Tavistock Road, MONBULK

$1,050,000-$1,140,000

DESIGNER HOME IN DESIRABLE POCKET

5A 2B 2C

FOR SALE

$780,000 - $840,000

6 Finchley Court, ENDEAVOUR HILLS MODERNIST STYLE HOME WITH A CREATIVE TWIST

3A 2B 2C

With designer finishes and a desirable 5,726sqm (approx.) woodland garden within walking distance of Main Road amenities, this property offers a retreat-like feel in the right location.

Set atop a sweeping drive for privacy and saturated with meticulously updated features, this home is the ideal tree-change for growing families. The split-level layout is framed by open and covered decking ensuring this is an exceptional home in every season.

Architecturally inspired, featuring stunning cathedral ceilings and internal brick feature walls, this gorgeous three bedroom home is filled with creativity and soul. With a modernist exterior, the home has been tastefully designed to capture a floorplan that flows naturally and effortlessly for family living, allowing for three spacious bedrooms, two bathrooms and dual living zones.

Brad Conder

Glenn Chandler

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

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

FOR SALE

22 Kooringal Road, UPWEY

AN ABSOLUTE DELIGHT WITH ART DECO ACCENTS

$900,000 - $990,000 4A 2B 1C

If this wonderful home’s walls could talk it would regale tales of enduring comfort in exceptional art deco style for nearly a century. Upon arrival, stop to soak up the landscaped gardens from the north-facing verandah with leafy hillside outlooks. From here, the interior opens into the lounge with wood fire, ornate ceiling panel, and picturesque window seat for curling up with a good book. At the heart of the home is the open plan living area and chefs’ kitchen with reclaimed timber benchtops, St George cooker, and butlers’ pantry with servery window to the gorgeous deck and garden. With the bonus of an upstairs retreat, this idyllic lifestyle property will be the backdrop for a new generation of family memories.

Suzie Brannelly 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 mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

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MAIL 19

HOME FOCUS

NEAR NEW FAMILY HOME IF you’re looking for a new family home, (still under Builder’s Warranty) with a low maintenance yard where you can walk to and from local cafes, restaurants, the primary school, childcare, playgrounds, and public transport, then this is the one!

Internally the home boasts an open plan split level design with wide passages that lead to a large, open plan family room, dining room and kitchen. There is plenty of natural light and filtered views through the double-glazed windows throughout which ensure energy efficiency and peaceful days and nights. The master bedroom is situated to the rear of the house, with walk through robe and generous ensuite, which includes a his and hers vanity and large double shower. The other 3 good sized bedrooms all have built in robes and along with the main bathroom are zoned at the other end of the home, so the kids and parents have their own space.

The kitchen is a modern masterpiece with stainless steel appliances, stone bench tops, walk in pantry and breakfast bar.

Other features of the home include double remote garage, mains gas ducted heating, a split system for cooling, theatre/rumpus room, kid’s retreat at their end of the home and the open plan family room features sensational stacking doors which make the undercover outdoor entertaining area part of the home living space.

Out the back is a nicely landscaped, low maintenance, fully fenced back yard with plenty of room for the children and the fur family to play complete with a stylish chicken coop.

With everything you could ever want and things you didn’t even know you needed, this will be your forever home - so don’t wait! ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 9 Gembrook Launching Place Road, GEMBROOK Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Inspect: By appointment Price: $940,000-$990,000 Contact: Samantha Scott 0438 680 032, BELL REAL ESTATE, EMERALD, 5968 6222 20 MAIL

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Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

mailcommunity.com.au

172 Spillers Road, Macclesfield

Expressions of Interest

Stunning Lifestyle Property on 10+ Acres

28-30 Main Street, Gembrook

$1,400,000 - $1,500,000

Sub-Division Opportunity!

On 10 acres+ this home has 6 bedrooms with built-in robes & a family bathroom, a master wing with walk-in robe and ensuite, 4 living zones, a lounge with a wood fireplace, formal dining room, open plan family zone & rumpus roomthis home has it all. Made for entertaining, this home has a games room set next to the solar-heated, indoor, salt-waterchlorinated swimming pool with attached spa, & adjacent bathroom. The kitchen has stainless steel appliances & large pantry. Features include gas ducted heating, NOBO heating, 2 split systems, evaporative cooling, & ducted vacuum.

Outside is 2 entertaining areas, a hut, 7 paddocks with horse shelters, electric fencing, a grass arena, & 3 dams, 1 is springfed & stocked with trout.

Set on an acre and a half, this property has a 2-lot subdivision almost completed, but there is an amazing opportunity now to expand the subdivision into multiple lots (STCA). Contact the agent to explore the details further. This 4-bedroom home has a lounge room with a fireplace and a master wing with walk-in robe, dressing room, ensuite, and plush carpets. The kitchen has butcher block countertops, contemporary tiles, large stove with gas cooktop, a breakfast bar and island, stainless steel appliances, and walk-in pantry. The kitchen is open plan to the dining room and has a perfect view of the pool and deck area for entertaining. Upstairs is viewing space that would be perfect for an office or observatory.

Outside there is an above-ground pool, a 6x12mtr shed with concrete floor & power. There is a 2nd accommodation perfect for aging parents or in-laws.

Contact: Samantha Scott 0438 680 032

Contact: Richard Birtchnell 0438 747 357

14 Bayview Road, Emerald

$850,000 - $920,000

329 Ure Road, Gembrook

Asking $900,000

Great Home with Scenic Views

Beautifully Kept 2 Acres with Views!

Don’t miss this character-filled, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2 garage home close to the Main Street of Emerald and with stunning views across the Dandenong Ranges. Inside there is an open plan kitchen/living/dining area that leads to a beautiful sun room with 180degree views. The hardwood kitchen has electric cooking, concealed double-draw dishwasher, and plenty of storage perfect for family living.

The huge lounge room has a gas log fire, plush carpets, and great views. The bedrooms are spacious with built-in robes, and plush carpets and the master has an ensuite. Outside there is under-house storage, gorgeous established gardens, veggie beds, a pond, paved pathways to meander in, and scenic views from the deck. Add your own style to this great home to make it your own hideaway in the hills.

Just a few minutes out of Gembrook and privately located with no close neighbours, this original 1940s home sits proudly on 2 clear, sunny acres with amazing views. The home consists of 3 bedrooms, a bathroom with a separate toilet, and a spacious living area with a toasty wood heater that opens onto the country kitchen. Outside there are two carports, one off the house and one off the shed, a workshop/storage shed, a 7.2 x 6m shed with concrete floor and power, and an additional outdoor room to relax. Add to this ample tank water and a beautiful clear, flat acre with mature gardens and a dam. An excellent opportunity not to be missed!

Contact: Aaron Day 0407 365 994

bellrealestate.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

Contact: Samantha Scott 0438 680 032 {queue.Rep2FirstName} {queue.Rep2LastName} {queue.Rep2Mobile}

5968 6222

311-313 Main St, Emerald Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

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MAIL 21

HOME FOCUS

WALK TO TOWN AND LOW MAINTENANCE THIS well-appointed over 55’s unit is on a lovely flat, maintainable allotment of 236m2 and has plenty of ‘added extras’ sure to impress the most fastidious buyer. High ceilings throughout, open plan living/dining/ kitchen, spacious rooms and a fabulous location where you can walk into Gembrook Township, stop for a chat and maybe a coffee, and enjoy community living in this picturesque town.

Featuring: 2 spacious bedrooms, both with built-in robes.

Central bathroom - ensuite effect from the main bedroom.

2 Toilets Contemporary kitchen with wall oven, hotplates, and dishwasher.

Fabulous storage throughout.

Open plan living and dining.

Gas ducted heating and split system.

· · · · · · ·

· Single garage with internal access and 2nd car space on title. · Undercover entertaining. · Flat, fenced allotment with side access. · Quick access by foot to the supermarket, cafes, parks, churches and much more! ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 13/13 Vista Court, GEMBROOK Description: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: $480,000 - $525,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Emily Hudson 0418 570 474, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL, 9754 6111

FOR PEOPLE THAT LIKE QUALITY IMMACULATELY presented and ideally located, this brick home is filled with wonderful features for you to enjoy the hills lifestyle. A calming, inviting vibe throughout, featuring cosy living areas including a separate family and lounge room.

A timber kitchen with Caesarstone benchtops that is designed for the avid chef.

There are 3 bedrooms and a study (or 4th bedroom), with the master bedroom zoned away from the other bedrooms and including a renovated ensuite plus a set of doubleglazed French doors leading to the outside private bath, enjoy a relaxing bath under the stars.

All bedrooms offer access to the outside with double glazed doors and windows throughout the home including the lounge and family room flowing to the outdoor entertaining area. Both bathrooms are tastefully renovated.

Outside features beautiful gardens on a near level 2200sqm (over ½ an acre) with

meandering pathways and grassy areas, whilst there is plenty of off-street parking including a double carport and large open car space off the side laneway access – plenty of room for the toys.

Creature comforts include a split system with 5 outlets, Jotul wood heater, an efficient Sanden Eco heat pump hot water system, dishwasher, security system, NBN and plantation shutters. Whatever your style, live your best life here.

Just 5 minutes drive to all that Emerald has to offer with its beautiful parks and gardens, fabulous local shops, schools, eateries, sporting clubs, community hub and much more to discover. Only a short stroll into the 125 acre Emerald Lake Park with walking trails and Puffing Billy. Just an hour to Melbourne CBD gives you the country lifestyle with convenience.

This is one that you need to come and feel the welcoming spaces, to appreciate what’s on offer. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 6 Station Avenue, EMERALD Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 study, 2 garage Price: $1,000,000 - $1,100,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 and Emily Hudson 0418 570 474, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL, 9754 6111 22 MAIL

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Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

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Ranges INVESTMENT OppORTUNITY

YOUR OWN TREE CHANGE

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

TIME TO UpSIZE YOUR FAMILY HOME?

BELgRAvE SOUTH 168 BELGRAVE HALLAM RD PARkS, RECREATION RESERvES & SHOPS NEARBY

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

BELgRAvE 25 BELLBIRD STREET THE PERFECT MODERN FAMILY HOME

$795,000-$874,500 4A 3B 4C

Now is the time to enjoy the true delights of living in the Dandenong Ranges and yet have all the space and convenience to work from home. Treetop views, parks & lakes are all just a short stroll from this fully renovated home. Featuring several living/entertaining options, rumpus with a bar, stunning kitchen, 4th bedroom/guest suite/home office with ensuite & WIR, wood fired combustion heater, GDH, S/S, fully fenced & landscaped 1000 sqm lot with a paved fire pit, SECOND driveway and a remote double 8 x 5.3m garage.

grant Skipsey 0418 528 102

1/2 ACRE & EXCELLENT GARAGING

$780,000 - $858,000 4A 2B 2C

Set within walking distance to the highly renowned Belgrave South primary School, you’ll find a renovated home with an abundance of space. Features a modern kitchen & casual meals area that opens to a generous lounge, good sized bedrooms, a sparkling bathroom ideally placed for a growing family, covered entertaining area overlooking the spa pool, cubby house and a fully fenced near LEVEL yard. Double carport, extra parking space & additional shedding/workshop. Wellington Rd and City access is nearby.

grant Skipsey 0418 528 102

We put you first

COCkATOO 5 SpRINGS STREET SPACIOUS CHARACTER FILLED HOME

$945,000 - $995,000 5A 2B 6C 1E

From humble beginnings built in 1927 this home has been transformed over the years into a stunning character-filled residence with reclaimed bespoke fittings throughout but also brimming with modern conveniences. Set on just over ½ an acre of park-like grounds with mature trees & established gardens, this property has much to offer and includes a study, wood combustion stove, GDH, sash windows, French doors, high ceilings, loft storage area with a hidden staircase, carport & a 4 car garage with a heavy-duty concrete floor.

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, 2 August, 2022

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MAIL 23

PUZZLES

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Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

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05-08-22

William Matthews Funerals FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

24 HOUR SERVICE ALL AREAS

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

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Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

12410397-ACM06-19

mailcommunity.com.au

OPINION

Behind the name Recently a visitor to the Old Lilydale Court House commented on how he loved reading Sandy Ross’ publication What’s Behind the Name? The history of 50 street names of Lilydale.

It reminded me of how difficult it is now to get a park, street or place named as there are so many protocols and organisations which have to be consulted – not just the local council.

In 1892, our councillors had no such restraints. With the growth of towns throughout Lillydale Shire, the time came when the road to Mr Jones house was no longer appropriate, particularly if he had died or moved on.

Council’s solution was to appoint a subcommittee to look at the issue and report back to the council meeting of Saturday, December 17, 1892. The committee’s recommendations were that the south-western riding (Ringwood, Croydon, Mooroolbark and the Dandenongs) should use the names of United Kingdom cities; Eastern Riding (Wandin, Seville and Silvan) the names of foreign cities and the Northwestern Riding (Lilydale, Coldstream, Yering and Gruyere) use Christian names.

It was agreed the councillors should be given the list of roads and the proposed names as they could perhaps improve on them. Cr John Kerr argued if the name was a respectable one it should remain. However if it was unnamed

Looking

back Sue Thompson

Lilydale and District Historical Society president or had a ridiculous name, he said it should have a new name.

Wanting to think about it, councillors deferred the item to the next meeting where each riding reported on progress being made.

A month is a long time in local politics and the councillors had a change of heart. Eastern Riding’s Cr Smith demonstrated how confusing naming roads after foreign cities would be: “Supposing a man was travelling on the main road at Seville and wished to get to South Wandin. He would certainly be perplexed if, after making inquiries, he was told to go on to Constantinople, and then turn to the right and go to Sebastapool, and then to the left to St Petersburg, and then to Timbuctoo. Turn sharp to the right and you will come to the school.

That is South Wandin. Or, again, a man comes

to a junction of three roads and spies a fingerpost. He expects to get information from this, and approaches it and sees – To Potsdam, to Amsterdam, to Rotterdam. In fact the man sees so many dams that he gets away as quickly as possible.” (Lilydale Express February 3,1893) Instead, Cr Smith believed it would be better to use the names of pioneers of the district and if there were not enough, then use the names of the best men of the colony.

The council agreed and referred the matter back to the sub-committee and agreed that the councillors of each riding draw up a list of names.

By March 1893, real progress had been made with the Eastern Riding industriously naming its roads, many after the district’s pioneers.

North-western Riding was slow to act but it also named many of its roads after local pioneers. South-western Riding preferred English cities so today we have Colchester, Hull and Sheffield roads to name but a few.

If anyone would like to buy a copy of What’s Behind a Name? call into the Old Lilydale Court House, 61 Castella Street, order it on-line from our shop at lilydalehistorical.com.au. Cost $7 plus postage. For more information about our society, email us at info@lilydalehistorical or call Sue Thompson on 0475 219 884.

CARTOON

Fine but not best

Bigbug Starring Elsa Zylberstein, Stephane De Groodt and François Levantal Rated MA15+ 3/5 Bigbug is a silly and sweet but overlong science fiction comedy by French auteur Jean-Pierre Jeunet.

In 2050, a computerised home and its robot housekeepers lock their owner Alice (Elsa Zylberstein) and her friends inside during an AI uprising.

The visuals have a vibrant retrofuturistic quality (the CGI is somewhat poor, but this adds to the charm). The human characters have enjoyable friction and sexual tension, but the robot housekeepers’ efforts to understand and protect them – through humour, philosophy and affection – form the film’s intriguing, endearing heart.

Claude Perron plays the earnest, glitching maid Monique with gusto, and François Levantal is genuinely intimidating as the stern, grinning face of the AI revolution (and his design evokes both Robocop and Yul Brynner’s gunslinger android in the 1973 Westworld film).

Unfortunately, Bigbug’s appeal is stretched thin; not everyone will tolerate nearly two hours of bickering suburbanites and will-they, won’t-they dynamics, nor the sitcommy vibe.

The plot is also patchy: there is rarely a sense of danger beyond the AI’s embarrassing punishments, two divorced characters get back together in an undeveloped and unearned reunion, and the AI is defeated by two Deus Ex Machinas (resolutions that come out of nowhere), which stretches credibility even for a goofy comedy. I also can’t tell if the film is too randy – using a deactivated air conditioner to contrive the characters out of their clothes – or typically French.

Bigbug is a horny, corny and decently enjoyable sci-fi comedy available for streaming on Netflix, but I would recommend Jeunet’s Amelie, The City of Lost Children, the underrated Alien Resurrection and especially his pitch-black postapocalyptic comedy Delicatessen over this.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Highlights for the upcoming Melbourne Writers Festival The Melbourne Writers Festival will take place on September 8-11. The theme this year is “ambition”, showcasing “a thrilling exploration of ambition – denied, thwarted and achieved”.

The event features more than 270 of the world’s most exciting storytellers, with 75 free and paid sessions hosted by State Library Victoria.

There is a 20% discount for those early birds who book their tickets before August 8 (some exclusions apply).

The following are some highlights from this year’s program. Readers are encouraged to find further details on the official website (https://mwf.com.au/).

For biography lovers, the new book Bob Hawke: Demons and Destiny will be revealed, and two renowned biographers will explain the art, ethics and remarkable subjects of their craft. Several memoirs will also be introduced, including but not limited to The Boy in the Dress, Growing Up in Country Australia, After the Tampa, and Unknown: A refugee’s story. mailcommunity.com.au

PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN On science, Dr Norman Swan will present his new book So You Want to Live Younger Longer? Various sessions will highlight the ancient science, sophisticated astronomical expertise and incredible feats of innovation achieved by Australia’s First Peoples. Another focus is on some of the surprising experiments that have shaped our world and its future.

Specifically on climate change, the new book Crimes Against Nature will be intro-

duced, and several acclaimed authors will shed light on their exploration of fear, loss and hope in climate fiction. Meanwhile, there will be dialogues on climate fatalism vs denialism, and on the power of the people – the struggles, successes and ambitions of collective action.

Regarding the media, there will be discussions on the future of ABC, the ethics and politics of public debate, the values underpinning news coverage, the challenges facing press freedom and investigative journalism, how to report trauma and elevate the voices of those affected by conflict and tragedy, and how to prevent the proliferation of fake news and disinformation.

Particularly notable are three sessions on international affairs, with Ukrainian ambassador Vasyl Myroshnychenko addressing how Russia’s invasion of his country is reshaping the world, New Yorker writer Joshua Yaffa discussing “Truth, Ambition and Compromise in Putin’s Russia”, and Hong Kong journalist Lou-

isa Lim and Chinese novelist Murong Xuecun presenting “Dispatches from Hong Kong and Wuhan”.

The Festival will feature a diverse range of First Nation writers and writers of colour, with discussions on indigenous feminism, the challenges of living in and between different worlds, the complications of race, language and political upheaval, how to forge new paths in predominantly white professions, and all that is and could exist in different versions of Australia.

And, finally, to celebrate the writing and reading of fiction, there will be author talks and workshops on all sorts of topics and themes.

With the 2022 Miles Franklin-winner Jennifer Down speaking at the Opening Night and Robert Dessoix, recent recipient of the Australian Council Award for Lifetime Achievement in Literature, addressing the Closing Night, the Melbourne Writers Festival is surely a splendid event. This reviewer will see you there.

Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

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MAIL 25

SNIPPETS

Hills events to tune into Hills Creative Alliance Community Action Group Check www.hillscreativealliance.com for the zoom link to the regular Friday morning ‘Hills Creative Alliance’ catch-up at 10.30am, for local folks from the storm-affected communities to meet together to support one another.

These weekly sessions have been running at Olinda Community House on Fridays from 10.30am - 12.00 since 29 April 2022, and provide opportunities for folks affected by the June 2021 storm, to chat with friends over a

cuppa and to tell their stories of the storm and the difficult times that followed.

Look out for speakers joining the group over the next few weeks.

Sincerely Survivor Film Screening and Q&A Grace Dance Company presents Sincerely Survivor the Dance Film at The Big Anxiety Festival 2022, exploring an arts-based research enquiry into the mental health system and its need for reform.

Hosted at Burrinja Cultural Centre, 351 Glenfern Road Upwey, on Tuesday 4 October.

Tuesday 16, 23 and 30 August.

Participants are requested to aim to attend all three free sessions at Olinda Community House, 79-81 Olinda-Monbulk Road, Olinda.

Kalorama skillshare A free event at Kalorama Pavilion, Corner of Mt Dandenong Tourist and Grange Roads, where attendees can come for skill-sharing, arts, crafts, as well as vintage pop-up stall.

It is on Sunday 7 August from 9am to 1pm, and will also include a free monoprinting masterclass.

The performance was co-produced as an informal response to the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, Sincerely Survivor amplifies the voices of people who have lived experiences of mental health challenges; creating art to enable our empathy.

Grounded and Flourishing art program A 3 session program for young people in Years 7-12 will explore themes of resilience, connectedness and growth through art making.

The sessions will be run by local art therapists Anita and Shelley from 4.30pm to 6pm on

Performances to see across Yarra Ranges theatres ensemble piece, Cosi celebrates theatre and its power to transform lives.

Season: 18 August - 3 September Bookings: Monday, Tuesday and Friday 10am – 2pm on 9735 1777.

Burrinja Arts Upwey brings musical wonders The Planets – Inventi/ensemble Come on a journey to outer space with the Inventi Ensemble in this groundbreaking new arrangement of Holt’s The Planets

by Glynn Davie, the ensemble takes this work

By Peter Kemp Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre presents Cosi It’s 1971 and outside on the streets, Australia is protesting the war in Vietnam. But inside a burned-out theatre, the resident patients of a mental asylum are listening to Mozart, learning their lines and occasionally skipping their medication.

Louis Nowra’s renowned Australian comedy finds light in the darkness and challenges our perceptions about love, madness, and humanity. A darkly funny and deeply moving

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to a whole new level through this virtuosic for just five players. In addition, this work is partnered by a new composition, From Inner Space by Australian composer Johannes Luebbers commissioned for this project.

Season: Saturday 27 August at 1.30pm.

Venue: Burrinja Theatre.

Peaceful Piano with Nat Bartsch and Luke Howard Luke Howard and Nat Bartsch are at the forefront of the growing neoclassical piano movement in Australia. Drawing from classical

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electronic, film, minimalism and jazz influences, their beautiful music has had a powerful impact on people from all walks of life, connecting with audiences worldwide and being streamed online over 50 million times!

For this special double bill tour, Luke and Nat will each perform a set of their music, joining forces at the end for a special collaboration that blurs the lines of composition and improvisation, acoustic and electronic.

Season: Sunday 28 August at 3pm.

Venue: Burrinja Theatre

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NEWS

Rare sighting of Yellow Bellied Gliders caught on film Along the course of Olinda Creek you can find many unique species such as the Platypus, Superb Lyrebird and Red-browed Finch however few are as unique and special as the Yellow Bellied Glider.

Recently spotted in Mount Evelyn’s wildlife reserve were two Yellow Bellied Gliders, an exciting discovery after years of attempting to do just that.

Since 2019 these animals have been monitored closely by members of the Mount Evelyn Environment Protection and Progress Association (MEEPPA), a duty absorbed by the citizen science project; Mount Evelyn Wildlife Watch (MEWW) in 2020.

Over the last two years the gliders have been a regular frustration for MEWW members, while their unmistakable calls are heard on nearly every survey (which when possible occur two or three times a fortnight) visual sightings are few and far between.

Footage has recently been recorded by long-time MEEPPA member and founder of MEWW, Thomas Hennessy, of two Yellow Bellied Gliders, believed to be a mated pair, in the Mount Evelyn Recreation Reserve on Tramway Road.

The species is classified as ‘near threatened’

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Two Yellow Bellied Gliders, believed to be a mating pair, were caught on camera at the Mount Evelyn Recreation Reserve.

Picture: SUPPLIED in Victoria but this is a subject of much debate in the scientific community as the species lost a huge proportion of suitable habitat in eastern Victoria in the aftermath of the 2019-2020 ‘Black Summer’ Bushfires.

In Mount Evelyn the Yellow-Bellied Glider is a recent arrival despite historical records the species was confirmed to have returned to the area in 2017 after a 50 year absence.

It is believed this is due to the huge efforts

of MEEPPA in conjunction with Melbourne Water and Yarra Ranges Council to rehabilitate and revegetate the area with native vegetation species native to this area.

Named for its striking underside, the Yellow Bellied Glider is a large species of possum about the size of a rabbit and with its specialised membrane stretching from its wrists to its ankles can make long glides over 50m through its forest home.

Yellow Bellied Gliders feed on the nectar and sap of various eucalypt trees. They bite into the trunk of their preferred eucalyptus, wait for the sap to run and then lap it up with their long pink tongues. When feeding they are easy to observe as they are intent on feeding and do not appear to be spooked easily.

Yellow Bellied Gliders require large hollows of old Eucalypts in which they live in communal groups. It is therefore important to protect these old trees for the survival of these amazing and special animals.

The preservation and protection of these amazing creatures is dependent on the ongoing monitoring, and revegetation of their preferred nesting and feed trees for their survival.

If you wish to assist MEWW in their wildlife surveying efforts you can contact the MEEPPA facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/ meeppa

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AVONSLEIGH Avonsleigh News & General Store 445 Belgrave Gembrook Road

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In accordance with Section 163 of the Local Government Act 1989, notice is hereby given that the Yarra Ranges Shire Council at its meeting of 26 July 2022 has resolved of its intention to declare a special charge for the Alfred Street & John Street, Wandin North – Tainton Street & Railway Parade, Wandin North and Cedar Court, Burns Way, Loch Avenue, Harvest Close & Mayview Drive, Monbulk road improvement works, for the purpose of defraying the expenses incurred in the provision by Council of road improvements carried out under Sections 8 and 10 of the Local Government Act 2020.

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SPORT

Tough opponents Monbulk travelled to Wandin for the first time since 2018 and were greeted by the impressive new pavilion at Clegg Road.

The blue sky and sunshine masked a cold wind which blew across the ground and played havoc with ball control.

A lengthy list of unavailable players gave Reserves captain, Matt James, the opportunity to make his Senior debut.

Matt, a third generation Monbulk player, had captained the Under 18s in 2012, but time away from football, and injuries, had meant that his first Senior appearance came at the age of 28 despite his undoubted tenacity and ability.

The Seniors had lost their previous two matches and were keen to stay in touch with the Top five as the finals are approaching.

Monbulk did not adjust as well to the crosswind and small ground as Wandin did, and found themselves six goals down by the long break.

Taking the game on in the third term resulted in some entertaining play, however, the Bulldogs found some avenues to goal in the final term to blow the margin out beyond ten goals in the end.

The Hawks can take a lot out of the match and face Upwey in a vital match this week.

Wandin 16.14.110 def Monbulk 6.10.46 Best: Joel Wensley, Benjamin Smith, Kai Linde, Pat Barge, Mitchell Dekker, Joshua Spencer

The Monbulk Football Club seniors lost their match against Wandin on the weekend as their vital match against Upwey fast approaches.

Picture: ARMIN RICHTER Goals: Glenn Strachan 2, Mackay Bateson 1, Taylor Joyce 1, Nicholas Wall 1, Joel Wensley 1 The Monbulk Reserves had only notched one win for the year to date, which had been against Wandin earlier in the year.

With the Under 19s having a bye the side was in a position to even name emergencies for the game, which was fortunate as a few were required on the day.

The Bulldogs eventually ground out a 27 point win, despite the Hawks applying pressure to the end and making them earn every scoring shot in a relatively low scoring game.

Wandin 4.13.37 def Monbulk 1.4.10 Best: Diarmid Mcclelland, Josh Rak, William Henderson, Riley Finlay, Aaron Smith, Patrick Snoxell Goal: Josh Rak

Gembrook-Cockatoo scores wrap up FOOTBALL Seniors: Gembrook Cockatoo 24 10=154 Belgrave 15 10=100 Goals: J. VerHagen 7, M. Firitto 5, R. Piper 2, K Allcott 2, M. Frazzetto 1, D South1, L Henzen 1, B. Schultz 1, L. Coad 1.

Best: J. VerHagen, B. Schultz, A. Firitto, D. Volta, L. Henzen.

Reserves Gembrook Cockatoo 13 6 =84 Belgrave 7 8 = 50 Goals: B Baguley 4, M. Brown 3, W. O’Sullivan 1, J. Mawson 1, T Bastow 1.

Best: B. Baguley, M. Brown, T. Brindle, J.

· · · · · · ·

O’Sullivan, G. Hartridge, K. Humphrey Veterans Semi Final Gembrook Cockatoo 6 5 =41 Narre Warren 2 8 =20 Goals: S. Richardson 3, S. Webster 1, M. Scott 1, D. Fry 1 Best: Team effort NETBALL A Grade: Gembrook Cockatoo 38 Belgrave 53 Goals K. Alford 19, R.Christie 14, A. Harkin 5 Best: K. Murphy, A. Bowden, A. Bell.

B Grade: Gembrook Cockatoo 59 Belgrave 40

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· · · · · ·

Goals:

· B. O’Neil 52, A. Williams 4, A. Fitzgerald 3.

Best: · B. O’Neil, M. U’Ren, C. Crowley C Grade: · Gembrook Cockatoo 37 · Belgrave 19 Goals: · E. Armstrong 27, S Ingram, 8, A. O’Neil 2 Best: · S. Rush, S. Ingram, J. McInerney D Grade: · Gembrook Cockatoo 37 · Belgrave 18 Goals: · S. Schmedemann 22, M. Schmedemann 15.

Best: Schmedemann, m. Schedemann, J. · S.Newsom.

Four on the trot for the victorious Bloods

By Frank Seal Coming off three straight wins, Olinda’s seniors had a week off to ponder their next battle against a struggling Officer side. It was a sunny yet windy day at Officer and on a large, variable surface, the Bloods were faced with unusual conditions - large areas of dry even ground with patches of quagmire - making for a scrappy contest.

At the business end of the season and with a huge challenge against ladder leaders Narre Warren in the following round, there was an emphasis on the here and now and the Bloods were determined to focus on the match at hand.

Kicking against the wind in the first quarter, Olinda struggled to establish an early lead despite clearly winning the territory battle. Officer was effective entering inside 50 and put up a good defensive fight. Isaac Tonkin was dynamic out of defensive 50 with his ball use and Matt Scharenberg’s efforts were crucial both in the air and on the ground, allowing clean defensive exits. Midfielders Kelsey Currie and Tyler Belloni were hard and strong as usual, gaining significant metres and providing opportunities for Lachy Taylor and Matt Rosier to capitalise. The game was tied at 4-1-25 at the first break.

While the wind was favourable, Olinda looked to establish a decent lead in the secmailcommunity.com.au

Bloods Leave Ground Satisfied After 69-Point Win. Picture: TREVOR CURRIE ond quarter. With some quick run and dash through the middle of the field, the Bloods were getting numerous inside 50s. Nick Keegan began influencing the game with his fastpaced play and handball receives, feeding the key forwards with deep entries and adding a goal himself. Noah Desta was playing with flair in front of goal, wrong-footing the opposition with some ankle-breaking moves and adding a goal as well. The midfielders were getting on top at stoppages, and the backs were holding up brilliantly, conceding no score for the quarter. The Bloods led 44-25 at half-time.

Still mindful of the conditions, Olinda focused on maintaining their scoreboard advantage into the third quarter wind. Of-

ficer’s midfielders scrapped hard, winning the clearance battle to open the half and putting Olinda’s backs under pressure. Dale Rohrmann was getting on top of his matchup, spoiling most contests, and disposing the ball efficiently. The conditions were impacting the ball use of both teams, and some costly defensive 50 errors for Olinda, resulted in two Officer goals for the quarter. Senior debutants Oscar Sarafian and Chris Darling were cool under pressure, playing their roles well given the conditions. With attacking intent, the Bloods moved the ball inside forward 50, where the goal-kickers outscored the opposition for the quarter and established a four goal ¾ time lead.

With the game poised for a strong Olinda finish, the Bloods unleashed an avalanche in the fourth quarter, kicking eight goals to one. The backs aggressively pushed high up the ground. James Belli displayed quality ball use inside 50. Pete Lucas and Kelsey Currie worked well defensively to win as many contests as possible. Nick Keegan repeatedly burst through the midfield sending the ball forward where Lachy Taylor (clunking strong marks) and Matt Rosier (winning hard ground ball) capitalised on the delivery, booting seven goals between them for the quarter. At the final siren, Olinda had claimed a big (116-47) victory to go one game clear in the top 4 and set up the rest of their season.

Last term blitz for netballers Monbulk’s A Grade team had not defeated Wandin since 2010 and had lost the last 15 encounters against the Bulldogs.

In a closely fought first half it appeared that the match could well go down the same path again as Wandin held a 3 goal lead.

Monbulk were still trailing by that margin at the final change but then stormed home with an incredible 18 goal to seven last term.

The Hawks defenders blanketed their opponents and starved them of opportunities while the midcourt pressure created vital turnovers to feed to their forwards.

The 55 goals scored is an A Grade club record against Wandin while the win just about secures a finals berth for the team.

Wandin 47 def by Monbulk 55 Best: Stephanie Puopolo, Paige Whitworth, Sophie Stubbs Goals: Stephanie Puopolo 45, Sophie Stubbs 10 The B Grade Hawks need to keep winning to hold on to second place as ROC and Olinda are breathing down their necks.

They started well with a 13-7 first quarter.

After that the game was very even but the early break had been enough to see the Hawks through to win number 12 for the year.

This was the first time that B Grade had beaten Wandin at Wandin in 10 years.

Wandin 38 def by Monbulk 43 Best: Georgia Himmelreich, Siobhan Munday, Fleur de Wit Goals: Iris de Wit 26, Olivia Crook 9, Dayna Walsham 8 In C Grade, Monbulk were not able to make it a trifecta on the courts as the fourth placed Wandin side proved to be too strong for the Hawks’ combination.

Wandin 34 def Monbulk 13 Best: Courtney Witt, Jessica Steele, Lisa Boyle Goals: Jamie Sands 7, Sammy Beecroft 6 Football The Monbulk Women’s team began their finals campaign with a Semi-Final against Belgrave at Upwey on Sunday morning.

Monbulk started perfectly and had a goal on the board within three minutes before the Magpies countered with two of their own.

The Hawks controlled much of the second quarter but could not turn it into scoreboard pressure.

For the second half Belgrave structured up better and will now head straight to the Grand Final while Monbulk progress to the Preliminary Final at Yarra Junction next Sunday.

Belgrave 5.7.37 def Monbulk 1.3.9 Best: Maddison Dodd, Yanessa Hancock-Wolfe, Kathryn Gow, Laura Gillard, Claire Scully, Molly Horne Goal: Kathryn Gow 1

Stephanie Puopolo shooting for goal in A Grade Monbulk’s win against Wandin.

Picture: ARMIN RICHTER Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

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Campaign remains strong Olinda Women’s Team march into the second week of finals after a sturdy 48 point win against Pakenham in front of a vocal crowd at Upwey on Sunday.

It is the second time this year Olinda has played a marquee game at The Cauldron at Upwey, and the girls were anything but overawed with the occasion.

The mood in the rooms pre-game was exceptionally energetic and positive.

The air of excitement was no doubt aided by the sight of a kitted-up (and strapped up) full forward Phoebe Dixon raring to go, a decision that was made 11.30 that morning and was a surprise to all.

Phoebe was told by the surgeon that a return to play this season was out of the question, but in a true example of “Bloods culture”, Phoebe refused to desert her teammates in a do-or-die final and it is to her great credit.

This was the perfect recipe for a barnstorming start to the game by Olinda.

Unfortunately things don’t always go to script in football, and Olinda seemed tentative and overall lacked composure for the first quarter and a half.

Elimination finals have their own tempo, and both teams struggled to adjust.

16 a side is always a challenge for Olinda and due to some quirk the team ended up with 5 forwards on the bench for much of the game.

Pakenham decided to play 2 loose players in defence, and forwards Phoebe Dixon and Maddie Collins were regularly double teamed.

From the start of the game ruck master Chelsea Wilson gave Olinda’s midfield first use, and they continued to pump the ball into Olinda’s crowded forward line.

Often in life, the most gifted people do amazing things with seemingly little effort.

Think of the best musicians, actors or sports people who seem to be able to perform the sublime without trying.

The same could sometimes be said of 15 year old Grace Belloni, who can accomplish anything on a football field and it often seems effortless. Sunday, Grace’s effort was on dis-

Lily Carlin’s run and carry generated many scoring opportunities from centre clearances. play for all to see, and it was a very impressive, dominant performance.

Grace was placed into the starting midfield for the first time this season, and shortly into the game had a Pakenham player sent to her for a hard tag.

For the duration of the game Grace fought every contest whether on the ground or in the air with a manic fervour, and won most. Grace topped off her best on ground performance with 3 classy goals.

Lily Carlin loves playing at Upwey, and for the second time this season she brought her own football to the game, having won the Anzac Day medal there earlier in the year.

Lily’s work inside and outside of the contest, coupled with her precise ball use was prolific all game, and was decisive in the victory.

Captain Maddie Collins prowled the forward line like a lioness all game, and is able to

deliver the brilliant or the brutal at will.

Maddie dealt with some puerile hecklers on the hill in true style, curling one of her two goals through the middle from deep in the pocket.

The word tentative is not in Claire Hyett’s dictionary and she is a relentless competitor, not just every game, but every contest.

Amalija Kostich Angerson started a centre half forward after 2 months filling in for Chelsea Wilson in the ruck, and her presence in the forward line made a noticeable impact.

Amalija’s pressure was particularly telling in keeping the ball in Olinda’s forward line, and she kicked an impressive long range goal for the second week in a row.

Phoebe Dixon had an excellent game at full forward, and generated plenty of opportunities for herself and her teammates.

Phoebe kicked two goals but could have

Picture: TREVOR CURRIE kicked more with straighter kicking, and all while battling two to three opponents on her own.

On the wings, the two Emms shined, Emmalee Keegan continuing her excellent form, and Emma McLauchlan playing her best game in two months.

Isla “Pipes” Bradbury was lively all game, and used her speed and ball use to great effect.

Defensive weapon Alex Gunn had a very effective day in her usual run-with role.

Special mention to young gun Ruby Gilson, who in the third quarter sold some candy with GST and sales tax applied that even Eddie Betts would have been envious of!

Overall it was a pleasing team effort by Olinda, but they will be concentrating on making a faster start when they come up against their nemesis Healesville in the Preliminary Final at Yarra Junction next Sunday.

U17 Olinda Ferny Creek boys secure win against Upwey We finished the Home and Away season with a massive Sunday of all teams playing at home with some great results. Olinda weather did it’s best work to help us with howling winds and icy temperatures reinforcing how much opposition teams hate coming up the hill.

The U10s finished their season with a solid hitout against Healesville who were looking for redemption from their Lightning Premiership loss.

It was a fast and furious game with both teams scoring early. In the end, with the support of many of the U9s, Coach Ben’s chargers were able to tip the balance their way.

Some classy football was shown, led by Syd Higgins and Finlay Paterson but performances across the board were great.

The U11s continued their strong form leading into finals, knocking off a spirited Woori outfit.

Milestone player Ollie Wilford showed his class with the footy around the ground with precision kicking and strong marking.

Jack Ford showed plenty of dash with some screaming runs from the middle and Connor Lourey showed his strength in the contest with some hard ball gets and long roosts into the forward line.

A 28 point victory reflected their effort around the ground and team work with some great link up play.

They finish the home and away season in third and look forward to their first finals match against Monbulk.

The U12 girls numbers have increased consistently over the season and where other teams were topping us up earlier on, this week we topped up Mt Evelyn.

This is some sort of milestone for the girls.

They also continued their development with a really solid showing against an also improved Mt Ev outfit, as they’ve narrowed 30 MAIL

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Tuesday, 2 August, 2022

Christian teBoekhorst gets his handball off to Ned Ford despite Upwey pressure.

Picture: TARA TONKIN the gap every time they’ve played them.

Coach Jaimee was really proud of the efforts of the girls, noting the work of the new comers Mataya Puglisi, Maya Peters and Mae Barry and how that has encouraged the girls to be more assertive in the contest.

They line up against Healesville in their finals match on Sunday.

The U13 boys had probably their most important win of the season as they hit finals.

Mt Evelyn have been the team to beat all year and the boys convincingly met the challenge yesterday with a 58 point win.

Coach Spida was impressed with the work

of Jesse Desta, who snagged two goals, along with Spencer Garrett and Kadin Johnston.

Coach Spida was really happy with Flynn Reeves, Ollie Haine, Rio Neish and Will Blenkiron who was tagged but still got 28 touches.

They will get to play Mt Ev at home again this week and will look to repeat their good work.

The U15 boys let some wayward kicking get the better of them as they went down to a spirited Wandin outfit.

Coach Scott felt the boys were a bit flat for this round despite the support of the home crowd, but was pleased with the work of Zac

Seal in his 100th game, Etienne GriersmithRowe, Cass Hine and River Bellemo.

They’ll regroup during the week to play Healesville at home to start their finals campaign.

Volleyball and seasonal illness meant the U16 girls were severely undermanned against a superior Mt Evelyn outfit, despite them also being short of their full contingent.

Nevertheless Coach Gramercy, was really proud of the girls’ effort, led by Captain Courageous Kiah Barry. Aurora Edge and Elsa Leonard also provided hard running and excellent ball use.

The U16s will be the only team to play away this week but they only have to travel to Belgrave for their final.

The Olinda-Ferny Creek Football Club girls are a win a piece over the home and away season.

The U17 boys had a really strong 49 point win against Upwey to finish the day.

Ned Ford had a day out in front of goal with five goals whilst Lachie Smith kicked four.

Coach Paddy was also really happy with the games of Isaac Tonkin and Blair Wilson, each in their 100th games, with the game being a good lead up to finals.

They will host Mt Evelyn this week in their first finals match as they look to continue their good run. Good luck next week guys!

As the Home and Away season closes, the Olinda-Ferny Creek Football Club reflect on what a great season the clubs Juniors have had, starting with the U10 Lightning Premiership and that all of our competitive sides have made finals.

The Olinda-Ferny Creek Football Club look to a massive round of finals at home next week and encourage the local community to come up to Olinda to watch some fine junior footy next Sunday. mailcommunity.com.au

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FIXTURES - ROUND 21 Friday, August 5 .................................................... Melbourne vs Collingwood Saturday, August 6 ........................................... Hawthorn vs Gold Coast Suns Saturday, August 6 ............................................................. GWS vs Essendon Saturday, August 6 ......................................... Western Bulldogs vs Fremantle Saturday, August 6 ........................................................... Geelong vs St Kilda

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