Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 27th September 2022

Ranges Trader

Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

Fuel prices set to rise with excise ending

Backlash over Andrews push to rename hospital

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Tributes to Tony

By Tyler Wright

Written on a pole are tributes from the people Mr Muller touched during his 29 years.

Picture: TYLER WRIGHT

from well-wishers with similar memories of Mr Muller’s caring and funny nature.

“I’m [going] to miss having to call him; as soon as I got on the phone to it was like it was like this energy... he was so bubbly and... energetic,” she said.

“It was contagious. If you were around him,

Think RESULTS Think BELL

Mr Muller was said to be the “life of the party” by friends. you’d feel the same way.”

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision and anyone with information or dashcam/CCTV footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

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both younger and said the world will be a “worse place” without him.

“He will be dearly missed,” Mr Leighton said.

“Such a good friend to anyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”

Ms Hauser said she has seen many posts

Picture: TYLER WRIGHT

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A place of recognition for Mr Muller, located outside Wantirna McDonald’s.

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Tributes have been flowing for 29-year-old Monbulk man Tony Muller after his death last week, with well wishers sharing what Mr Muller meant to them.

A pair of vans, a Vodka Cruiser and flowers are some of the gifts laid outside Wantirna McDonald’s at the intersection of Boronia Road and Mountain Highway, where Mr Muller’s motorbike collided with a grey Ford around 2.30pm on Tuesday 20 September, resulting in his death.

Amy Hauser was friends with Mr Muller for years, and said he “was always making people laugh, no matter who it was”.

“I could literally call him if I needed help, and he would be like, ‘yep, sweet, I’ll come and help,’ Ms Hauser said.

“I was working really early one morning and it was winter and It was freezing, It was raining. And I was reversing out of my driveway and I got a flat tire from one of the lights in the grass.

I called [Tony] and I’m like ‘I don’t know how to change it, I’ve got to get to work,’ and within 10 minutes he was over, soaking wet, changing my tyre for me.”

Ms Hauser said Mr Muller was at her house on Monday 19 September, the night before his death; something she has found particularly difficult to process.

“He had the best bond with [his nephew]... they were actually on FaceTime [at my house],” Ms Hauser said.

“It’s really sad, but it was really nice to see that him and his nephew had such a nice connection.”

Another friend, Zac Leighton Junior, spent a lot of time with Mr Muller when they were

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NEWS

Parts of Olinda-Monbulk Road to close for works Access between 186 and 216 Olinda-Monbulk Road in Monbulk will be cut off this week as the Department of Transport (DoT) completes tree removal works.

DoT has confirmed the Hunter Street/ Olinda Monbulk Road bus stop will not be serviced between 7am and 5pm whilst crews are on site between Monday 26 September and Thursday 29 September.

The 696 bus service will continue to operate during works with a shuttle bus running via Monbulk Road and Invermay Road.

The trees were identified as a hazard after an assessment by an independent arborist.

“Safety is our top priority, which is why

we’re removing three trees on Olinda-Monbulk Road that present a potential hazard to road users,” a DoT spokesperson said.

“Crews will be on site between 7am and 5pm, and we’ll work as quickly as possible to minimise disruption to drivers and bus users along Olinda-Monbulk Road.”

A signed detour with a reduced speed limit will be in place via Monbulk Road, Sherbrooke Road and Mount Dandenong Tourist Road to keep crews safe.

There will be no through access at the point of works at 186, 210, 213 and 216 Olinda-Monbulk Road, with some noise unavoidable as crews work between 7am and 5pm.

Works were undertaken on the collapsed culvert last week.

Large hole being fixed

By Tyler Wright Yarra Ranges Council has confirmed it will fill in a collapsed culvert at 73 The Crescent in Sassafras after being alerted to the hazard on the weekend.

It is believed after hours crews webbed off the whole located near Nobles Lane and Colehurst Crescent, after Yarra Ranges Council was

alerted to the hole on the weekend of Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 September.

A post about the collapsed culvert was published on social media over the weekend, alerting residents to the hazard.

Works will continue this week to fix the hole and is believed to be safely webbed off for those using the road.

A section of Olinda-Monbulk Road in Monbulk will be closed from Monday 26 to Thursday 29 September, as the Department of Transport completes tree removal works. Picture: ON FILE

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IN BRIEF

Holiday police blitz

Appeal for lost cash Victoria Police were patrolling local roads in Operation Scoreboard for the long weekend. 245950 Picture: JOE MASTROIANNI cember is historically one of the highest-risk periods for motorcycle trauma, however we are already trending well above previous years.

We need to do everything we can to prevent more rider deaths and serious injuries from occurring.”

A/C Weir said police suspect the rising cost of living and fuel prices have had an effect on people choosing to ride motorcycles instead of driving vehicles.

“During Operation Scoreboard, police will be keeping a close eye out for motorcyclists engaging in risky behaviour, particularly speeding which has contributed to more than half of rider deaths this year,” he said.

Police utilised automatic number plate recognition technology to detect unauthorised motorists, with almost half of deceased motorcyclists either unlicenced, suspended or disqualified from riding a motorcycle.

Despite Covid restrictions, last year police managed to detect over 2,000 traffic offences during Operation Scoreboard – with speeding the most common offence, as well as almost 200 drink and drug driving detections.

“We will also be conducting extensive alcohol and drug testing as Victorians enjoy Grand Final football in Melbourne after a two-year hiatus,” A/C Weir said.

“Please take extra care as you travel across the state over the weekend – we’ve seen far too many tragic, yet completely avoidable fatal collisions this year.”

Operation Scoreboard ran statewide from 12:01am Wednesday 21 September to 11:59pm Sunday 25 September.

For more information and tips for staying safe on the roads this long weekend, visit the Road Safety page on the Victoria Police website.

Stabbing in Upwey

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Yarra Ranges Crime Investigation Unit members have charged a man following an alleged stabbing which occurred in Upwey on 22 September.

It’s understood two men were involved in a dispute in a car park on Mast Gully Road around 7.30pm.

During the dispute, a 22-year-old Belgrave Heights man was allegedly stabbed to the face.

He was taken to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries, and the other man allegedly left the scene.

A 21-year-old Ferntree Gully man was arrested on Friday 23 September.

He has been charged with Intentionally cause serious injury, recklessly cause serious injury, assault with a weapon and was bailed to appear before Melbourne Magistrates Court on 29 September.

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Car impounded after drug driving offence Highway Patrol officers stopped a disqualified driver in Wantirna South on Thursday 22 September before she tested positive for illicit substances.

The 36-year-old woman was stopped around 8.30pm during a roadside breath test, where police found she was driving while disqualified.

She tested positive for illicit substances and had her vehicle immediately impounded.

Police said Operation Scoreboard would continue over the long weekend.

“Motorists can expect to be tested for drugs and alcohol throughout the operation,” Police said online.

“If you drink or take drugs and drive, you will be caught and the consequences can be severe.”

The woman will receive a summons to appear at the Magistrates Court.

Eligible families in the Dandenong Ranges can apply for the latest round of the Get Active Kids voucher program, offering up to $200 for use at registered sporting clubs and activity providers.

The vouchers can be used to cover the costs of equipment, uniforms and memberships across a range of activities from club cricket to dance.

Applications for this round close at 5pm on 30 November 2022. Families can also continue to claim reimbursement for expenses already incurred prior to the opening of this round.

To apply or for more information visit getactive.vic.gov.au/vouchers.

A 21-year-old Ferntree Gully man was arrested on Friday 23 September.

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Police are looking for the owner of a large amount of cash found scattered on OlindaMonbulk Road between Olinda and Monbulk in August. The large amount cash was handed in to Monbulk Police in August, with a public plea being made by police due to the cash amount.

If anyone lost a large amount of money during this time, and place, Monbulk Police advise calling Senior Constable Ben Mitchell at Monbulk Police Station. For the owner to claim the money, they will need to explain how much money there should be in total and what sort of denominations the amount is made up of.

To contact Monbulk Police Station, call (03) 9756 6266 and speak to Senior Constable Ben Mitchell for more information.

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216 Commercial Road, Morwell VIC 3840 P: (03) 5134 8000 E: harriet.shing@parliament.vic.gov.au harrietshingmp @ShingvWorld

A teenager and a child have both been transported to the hospital after a traffic collision in Upwey on Tuesday 20 September.

The CFA was notified at 4.26pm of reports of a vehicle accident, with the scene being declared under control 10 minutes later.

Paramedics treated a teenage boy for upper body injuries before he was taken to Dandenong Hospital, while a child was taken to the Royal Children’s Hospital for further observation. Three CFA vehicles from Upwey and Belgrave brigades attended the scene.

A VICSES spokesperson said volunteers from the Knox unit were dispatched to a potential road rescue following a multiple-vehicle collision.

“The crew was stood down on route after confirmation that no one was trapped and returned to the unit.” the spokesperson said.

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Victoria Police launched its Grand Final weekend road policing operation with a focus on motorcycle safety after unprecedented rider deaths so far this year.

The statewide policing effort, known as Operation Scoreboard, was extended to accommodate the National Day of Mourning public holiday on 22 September, as many people took advantage of the extra long weekend.

Police across the state targeted speeding and distracted drivers heading out to regional areas on high-risk rural roads and highways, with drivers being warned on Maroondah Highway in Coldstream to drive carefully.

Police also warned Victorians celebrating the AFL Grand Final that there was zero tolerance for drink or drug driving, and motorists were stopped on Maroondah Highway in Coldstream on Thursday 22 September with drug and alcohol testing.

Victoria has already recorded 178 lives lost in 2022 – 21 higher than 2021 (157) and trending well above the five-year average of 166.

Of particular concern to police is the rising number of motorcyclist deaths – there have been 38 fatalities, trending well above the fiveyear average of 27 and on track to exceed the highest number of motorcyclist fatalities recorded in the last five-years (44 in 2019).

Speed has been cited as a factor in at least 20 motorcyclist fatalities this year, with half of the deceased riders under the age of 35.

“More motorcycles on Victorian roads has led to an increase in motorcycle trauma in 2022, and alarmingly we are on track to exceed the most motorcycle deaths recorded in the last five years,” road policing assistant commissioner Glenn Weir said.

“Concerningly for police, October to De-

Upwey collision

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

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NEWS

Fuel excise tax cut to end

By Callum Ludwig The fuel excise discount introduced at the start of April is coming to an end on Thursday 29 September and will likely mark a concerning return to sky-high petrol prices as Australians deal with a number of cost-of-living pressures.

The projected price rises could mean that some of the communities most vulnerable are unable to afford to transport themselves.

LinC General Manager Julie Szabo said LinC gets a lot of requests for petrol as it is, let aloe with price increases.

“It’s going to have a large impact, people are already struggling financially. Our area has very limited public transport, and so people are extremely reliant on their cars and for anyone on a low income, petrol is always an issue,” she said.

“We do help with all types of fuel as much as we possibly can, and while we can’t offer transport anymore, Eastern Volunteers offers transport services for anyone over 65 and with a disability.”

The excise tax discount saw 22 cents cut from the price of fuel for providers, which in turn could be passed on to consumers.

Ms Szabo said it is an extremely important issue that affects people on a day to day basis.

“We have people with illnesses who need to get to hospital, or families with kids to get to a school who need petrol. Not only that, but we value the social connection self-transport provides, but have to prioritise those with appointments or educational needs,” she said.

“We try to help with petrol, but also by ensuring the programs we run are local to where people live, to help keep people connected with their community and so they don’t have to travel as far.”

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) will be closely monitoring retail prices to ensure the excise is passed

Neighbouring petrol stations in the Yarra Ranges were showing price differences of over 44c last week.

Pictures: CALLUM LUDWIG on fairly, ramping up monitoring of anti-competitive behaviour and analysing prices daily.

Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the Federal Government are under no illusions this will be difficult for people.

“Fuel prices in most parts of the country at the moment are now around 50 cents a litre below the peak recorded in July,” he said.

“Industry estimates that there [will] be more than 700 million litres of lower excise fuel in the system when the fuel excise is reintroduced. This is 700 million reasons why the price should not shoot up by the full 23 cents on the night that the excise relief ends.”

The ACCC expects that there will be no abnormal retail price increases in the days leading up to, on the day of, or after the reintroduction of the full rate of fuel excise.

Low petrol prices won’t the fuel excise discount ends 29 September.

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Outcry over name change

By Mikayla van Loon The conversation around the proposed Labor government name change of Maroondah Hospital has garnered a public outcry on both sides of the debate.

Premier Daniel Andrews made the announcement he planned to upgrade the hospital facilities with a $1 billion investment on Sunday 18 September alongside the renaming as tribute to Queen Elizabeth II should Labor be re-elected in November.

A petition, started by Maroondah Action on Sunday, had reached over 3000 signatures by midday on Monday 19 September and as of Monday 26 September had reached over 40,000 signatures, with many sharing it on social media.

The word Maroondah derives from the Woiwurrung language meaning ‘leaf’, something Maroondah Council states on its website is representative of the area’s green environment.

As one of the only hospitals to hold an Aboriginal name, First Nations People have referenced the decision as a backwards step in both treaty and reconciliation.

Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) CEO Jill Gallagher said with many landmarks, venue names and statues already honouring the British heritage, the name change is not needed.

“Whilst we are surrounded by British culture in this country – Aboriginal culture, and the Aboriginal way of life is almost invisible,” she said.

“Renaming the Maroondah hospital will see yet another piece of our culture erased and replaced by the culture of the invaders.

“Culture needs to be seen and understood as a protective and healing factor for Aboriginal people. Anything that takes away from our culture has detrimental impacts on the health and wellbeing of our people.”

First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria Co-Chair

Public outcry has been sparked over Labor’s proposal to change the name of Maroondah Hospital as a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II. 274922 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Marcus Stewart said by renaming the hospital it would make it a “culturally unsafe place for our people”.

“This is a stark reminder of why Treaty is so critical, it can put an end to the hurtful platitudes of the powerful,” he said.

Victorian Greens leader Samantha Ratnam introduced a motion into the Upper House on Tuesday 20 September urging the government to reverse its decision to rename Maroondah Hospital.

“It is a disrespectful decision that erases precious Woiwurrung language. This is not what Treaty looks like,” she said.

“If this Government is serious about Treaty it would listen to First Nations communities and act now, not later.”

Comments on social media have been both in support of Premier Andrews’ decision and against it, flooding Twitter and making the #Maroondah a trending topic.

“As a Maroondah resident, I want to just say a huge thank you Sam. The hospital does not need to be renamed, let alone to be after someone as polarising as she is,” Alyce Collett said on Twitter.

“Never in my life would I’ve picked the hospital name as a wedge issue. ‘Maroondah

Hospital’ for me was always just a geographic marker, that it’s in the City of Maroondah and that the facility name was always up for grabs.

So it’s been interesting to see the reaction,” another person posted to Twitter.

“I’m okay with the naming of the hospital after QEII, as long as the local area remains Maroondah and our city becomes formally known as Naarm,” another commenter wrote.

“Maroondah hospital is one my family has used. Spend the money for the best capital assets and provide the best staff. I couldn’t care less what you call it, just provide great medical care to all,” a fellow Twitter user said.

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NEWS

National memorial held

By Parker McKenzie Federal politicians, public servants and distinguished guests joined together for a memorial service for Queen Elizabeth II at Parliament House on Thursday 22 September, the same day as the one-off public holiday to honour the memory of the late British monarch.

Alongside former Prime Ministers and Governor-Generals, Premiers and distinguished guests, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said those in attendance gathered together to offer Australia’s thanks for “an extraordinary life dedicated to service, faith, country and Commonwealth.”

“Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was the longest serving monarch in the history of a centuries old institution,” he said.

“Her reign spanned almost half the life of our modern federation and we proudly honour her memory today on a continent home to the world’s oldest continuous culture.”

Governor-General David Hurley said it was a sad day of national mourning. “the passing of the Queen, while we knew it to be inevitable, has still struck with an impact that has exceeded any expectation here in Australia, the United Kingdom and indeed across the globe,” he said.

“Amongst the sadness though, it is also a day of reflection and celebration, a day to recognize what it means to have lived in the second Elizabethian age.”

Casey MP Aaron Violi, who attended the memorial, told the Star Mail he has seen firsthand how much the Queen meant to the people in his electorate.

“Whether it’s my social media page or the condolence book that I’ve had set up in the office, the amount of people that have come through or requested portraits of the Queen, it just shows that the impact she’s had on the

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese speaking at the memorial service for Queen Elizabeth II. community,” he said.

“It’s been an honor to be able to represent our community at the memorial and in parliament the last two weeks.”

On Friday 23 September, Mr Violi gave a

speech in parliament and spoke of Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Casey in 1954.

“She was greeted by 20,000 locals in Lilydale who climbed trees and fences just to catch a glimpse of their young Queen,” he said.

Picture: LUKAS COCH/AAP PHOTOS “Even though the Queen only stayed for 15 minutes, the local paper termed the visit a truly momentous occasion for Lilydale, one that the thousands of old and young will never forget.”

Upper House MP warns of risk of extremist groups

By Parker McKenzie Outgoing MP for Eastern Region of Victoria Cathrine Burnett-Wake raised concern about the risk of extremist groups during her valedictorian speech on Wednesday 21 September, and has condemned their influence on politics and warning “ordinary Victorians need to awaken to the threat.”

Ms Burnett-Wake has worked on three parliamentary inquiries since becoming an Upper House MP in November 2021: into the criminal justice system, children affected by parental incarceration and most recently the inquiry into extremism in Victoria.

Ms Burnett-Wake said the timing of an inquiry into extremist is especially timely.

“I am a fiscally conservative, free-market liberal who is socially moderate,” Ms Burnett-Wake said.

“I‘m happy to be labelled Liberal if that is what it means, but not when reactionary extremists try to appropriate the word to describe their menacing agenda of hatred, repression, exclusion, division and opposition to hard-won women’s rights.”

On 30 April 2022, findings of the sixmonth inquiry into far-right extremism in Victoria were released, with the parliamentary committee making 42 findings and 12 recommendations.

The recommendations included that the Victorian Government funds research investigating the links between extremism and family violence, anti-women and or antifeminist sentiment and masculinity, review critical and digital literacy skills taught in schools and support the ongoing existing anti-racism programs and seek to improve them.

Ms Burnett-Wake said when voters are disappointed by the choices offered to them or when their vote makes no difference, they lose faith in democracy and the electoral system is undermined.

“We cannot afford for people to turn away from democracy, because the alternative is all too obvious,” she said.

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Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

Cathrine Burnett-Wake speaking in Parliament on September 13.

“It always means less freedom, less prosperity, less fairness.”

Ms Burnett Wake was appointed to the Upper House of Victorian Parliament after the retirement of the Liberal MP Edward O’Donohue before being defeated in a close pre-selection on the Liberal Party ticket for Eastern Victoria by Renee Heath ahead of the 2022 state election on 26 November. She was a Yarra Ranges councillor for Streeton Ward before the appointment.

She said dishonest actors are currently thriving in an environment where “sensational lies get more social media engagement than the truth” and political events interna-

tionally have encouraged factions to believe “the time has come for their racist, nationalist, LGBTQI hating, pro-conversion practices and anti-women’s rights agendas to come to the fore.”

“These cults try to splinter our society while ironically speaking of oneness and unity. Their extreme positions always serve a divide and conquer approach,” Ms BurnettWake said.

“Ordinary Victorians need to awaken to the threat from these groups. Some are involved in politics, building factions with detailed and effective plans to undermine and corrupt democracy in Victoria and Australia today.”

Picture: CATHRINE BURNETT-WAKE FACEBOOK Ms Burnett-Wake said moving forward she was unsure if she would return to politics after serving as the first female Liberal member for Eastern Victoria, but would look back on her time in parliament with great pride and fondness of the people she had met.

“Although my time has not been as long as I wished, I have been rather busy,” she said.

“One of my wonderful staff members has informed me I have spoken 95 times over 14 sitting weeks. I’m informed that is more than some MPs have spoken in their entire career of several terms.”

The Liberal Party of Victoria declined to comment. mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Initiatives of Change Australia Executive Officer Margaret Hepworth, Hills local Granny Annie and Shakti McLaren around the ceremonial bonfire of Thursday 22 September.

Pictures: TYLER WRIGHT

Hills residents gathered to recognise late First Nations Kings and Queens.

Service honours Elders

By Tyler Wright Over 30 people gathered at Grants Picnic Ground in Kallista on Thursday 22 September; a public holiday declared by the Australian Government as a national Day of Mourning for the late Queen Elizabeth II, to remember First Nations people who have died and acknowledge Australia’s history of colonisation.

A bonfire burning gum trees and wood sat in the centre of the circle, while members shared songs, poems and acknowledged the traditional lands from where they were raised; including Kaurna land in South Australia.

Uncle Archie Roach, Aunty Marg Gardiner, Aunty Lee Wanganeen aka “Mama Wang” and

Uncle Jack Charles are some of the figures the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria also mourned.

Hills Walking Together founder Shakti McLaren organised the ceremony, and said it made sense to spend time mourning “what we’ve done and where we’re at” in the country’s treatment of Indigenous peoples.

“It’s a way for me of acknowledging my deep sadness; when Uncle Archie [Roach] died I was in Mparntwe (Alice Springs), I couldn’t believe the amount of grief; how this man that I guess I had known since I was youngish, I’d been to many concerts, I knew his story.” “[His death just shocked me,” Ms McLaren said.

“When [Wurundjeri, Dja Dja Wurrung and Ngurai-Illam Wurrung woman] Stacie [Piper] said she was going to have a ceremonial fire...I thought ‘right. we’ll connect in somehow to that ceremonial fire that she’s doing.’

I thought, ‘it’s gonna be a busy day up here let’s let’s mark this territory has changed, as [Grant’s Picnic Ground co-owner] Belinda wants it to be a place of change, and healing from that dreadful time of bird feeding.”

“It does is really brings together like minded people and I’m hoping that awareness of the people that have come to the ground expecting the bird feeding and seeing something different that seemed important; and that alternative story to this day.”

This comes after the Victorian Government’s promise to rename a newly built Maroondah Hospital, ‘Queen Elizabeth II,’ after the late monarch, receiving backlash from co-chair of the First Peoples’ Assembly Marcus Stewart and others.

‘If someone can change the name of that hospital or the hospital to that monarch’s name, they don’t understand treaty,” Ms McLaren said.

“This continues...when are we going to change?”

Attendees were able to donate to Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place during the ceremony on Thursday 22 September.

Acknowledging First Nations through signs, events

By Parker McKenzie An area previously used for bird feeding at Grants Picnic Ground — before the activity was banned in February 2020 — is now being used to host community events, including for First Nations people.

The former bird feeding area hosted a Walk and Talk event organized by Hills Walking Together on Saturday 11 September, a project aiming to create opportunities for First Nations peoples and local residents of the hills to “connect, respect, learn and celebrate Culture and Country.”

Founder of Hills Walking Together Shakti McLaren said Uncle Murrindindi — the Ngurungaeta of the Wurundjeri People — informed people at the Walk and Talk about traditional foods and medicine available in the area.

“He talked mostly about the indigenous foods available around the area,” she said.

“They don’t like it being called bush tucker, because it’s actual food that is growing there along with medicines as well.”

Parks Victoria stopped allowing bird feeding at the popular tourist destination following a study by independent wildlife consultants on the impact it has on the surrounding environment. The bird feeding area forms part of the lease agreement of the Grants on Sherbrooke tearooms and kiosk.

Justin Wicks, who runs Grants on Sherbrook with Belinda Hubbard after taking over the business in July 2022, said while bird feeding bought tourists to the area previously, they want to see the area used by the local community.

“Tourist groups see it printed on documents, social media and on the tourist maps,” he said.

“We have them come in disappointed, ranting and raving to us thinking it is our fault.” mailcommunity.com.au

Uncle Murrindindi informed a small group of people at the Walk and Talk about traditional foods and medicine available in the area.

Picture: SUPPLIED Mr Wicks and Ms Hubbard also recently erected an Acknowledgment of Country sign developed by Hills Walking Together and the Upwey Community Group.

Upwey Community Group’s Jonothan Levin said it is great to see diversity happening in the hills, particularly in regards to First Nations people.

“It’s really positive and I’m excited multiculturalism is beginning to show its head,” he said.

“It’s nice to have a diversity of conversation starting to happen, my main focus is having it happen with First Nations people first.”

The signs cost $50 each, with the profits made from them being contributed towards the Mullum Mullum Indigenous Meeting Place in Croydon.

Ms MacLaren said a university course

caused her to consider the needs of First Nations Peoples in the hills.

“I had to write a piece about would First Nations people feel welcome where I live and it got me looking around the villages to see whether I thought they’d feel welcome, I just felt like they wouldn’t,” she said.

“I wanted to have more artwork and more acknowledgement in the hills. We are a racist country and the sooner we acknowledge that the sooner we can tell the truth.”

Ms Hubbard said low-impact activities like yoga, healing ceremonies or walking groups are welcomed in the bird feeding area.

“If we don’t look after the forest, it won’t be here in 20 years for the next lot of people,” she said.

“There are still lots of people coming out thinking they can feed the birds and we still

Grants on Sherbrooke owner Justin Wicks with the new Acknowledgement of Country sign.

Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE have tourists come up with boxes of food, so there is still a lack of education here.”

For more information on Hills Walking Together, you can visit the Facebook page or email hillswalkingtogether@gmail.com Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

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We have a great, convenient range that is easy to shop. You’ll fall in love with our new deli, with cured meats sliced to order. We’ve got everything

COMING SOON

The faster, smarter way to shop at Woolworths Emerald 1

Scan the barcode on your items and bag as you go.

2

Pay in-app* using your saved payment method.

3

Skip the queue and head to the dedicated Scan&Go checkout. Scan your QR code and follow the prompts.

you need for the perfect platter, plus a fantastic selection of Australian and imported cheeses.

Walk past our in-store bakery and explore the delicious range of bread, including crusty loaves, sliced white and wholemeal rolls. Our artisan-style breads are divine and are made with Australian wheat flour.

There’s so much to see and try at your new

look Woolworths, we suggest heading over to the seafood counter. Seafood is a big part of our fresh food offering and we’ve a range of great value, locally sourced favourites.

Just a small taste of what you’ll discover at our fresh new look Woolworths Emerald.

You’ll find us located at 383-385 Belgrave Gembrook Road, Emerald.

Have you tried our new Direct to boot service?

Introducing our new Direct to boot service at Emerald. Order online and one of our Personal Shoppers will hand pick your order with care, then place it straight in your car boot.

Find out more at woolworths.com.au

Available in the Woolworths app

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e’re excited to announce the completion of our fresh new look store. You’ll find our friendly team and a large fresh food department offering everything from Australian fruit and veg to The Odd Bunch range.

Min. spend $30 for Pick up. See website for full T&Cs. *Purchase limits and T&Cs apply. See woolworths.com.au/scanandgo

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NEWS

ADVERTORIAL

Push for telecoms

By Parker McKenzie The Dandenong Ranges is no stranger to natural disasters. In recent times, it has seen both destructive storms sweep through and bushfires set the green hills ablaze.

During bushfires, floods and storms, the resilience of the telecommunication network can prove to be the difference between life and death, which is why Yarra Ranges Council included the issue in an advocacy plan approved by councillors on Tuesday 13 September.

The council is advocating for “improved mobile connectivity in five key areas with low or no mobile service quality”, including the Dandenong Ranges, upgrading NBN broadband services from fixed wireless, satellite and FTTN to FTTP in key areas with slow broadband service and strengthening telecommunication network resilience during power outages and emergencies through “increased battery back-up at mobile towers and generator power for NBN nodes.”

An independent review of telecommunications infrastructure resilience during the 2019-20 bushfires by the Inspector General for Emergency Management found two key vulnerabilities: loss of power to mobile base station sites and pre-existing mobile black spots.

According to a report by Emergency Management Victoria, the storm weather event created the largest power outages in Victorian history, with 3000 people in the Dandenong Ranges losing power for three weeks and 71 per cent of people who responded to a survey saying they lost access to at least one of power, internet or telecommunications.

Data, surveys and reports show the issue is a major one, so what has been done since the storms?

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

On Thursday 21 July, the first large investment in telecommunications in the region

Woolworths Emerald Reveals Fresh New Look Yarra Ranges Council has included telecommunications in its advocacy plan ahead of the 2022 state election.

Picture: ON FILE since the June 2021 storm weather event was announced, with two new mobile base stations being funded through the federal Peri-Urban Mobile Program in Silvan and Menzies Creek.

In late 2021 Yarra Ranges Council introduced 10 trial sites for fixed installations of NBN disaster satellite services throughout the Valley and Dandenong Ranges, including in Monbulk, Olinda and The Patch.

The trials were funded through the Strengthening Telecommunications Against Natural Disaster grant, a $37.1 million federal program.

Over the weeks leading up to the November 26 state election, the Star Mail will be exploring what needs to be done, where the candidates stand on the issue and how the Dandenong Ranges can avoid being cut off during natural disasters.

Calls for orphaned permits commitment

By Parker McKenzie Yarra Ranges Council has called on the Minister for Planning and the Department of Environment Land Water and Planning to commit to helping resolve the issue of orphaned planning permits ahead of the November 26 state election.

At a Council meeting on Tuesday 13 September, the council unanimously carried a motion to support its advocacy plan, which included asking the minister and DEWLP to support the Victorian Building Authority to “appoint a Manager for any Private Building Surveyor (PBS) business if the PBS’s registration has been suspended or cancelled.”

A spokesperson for the VBA said the authority has been working closely with DEWLP and key industry stakeholders to find a solution to the issue of orphaned building permits.

“The Victorian Budget 2022/23 included $7.9 million over two years for building reforms to secure Victoria’s economic recovery, including helping to address the issue of orphaned permits,” the spokesperson said.

“As an effective connector, the VBA has been leading industry workshops to provide consumers with solutions and recently launched a pilot program for reviewing detached permits and the associated build-

New look Woolworths offers Emerald locals the ultimate in convenience.

Local shoppers in Emerald now have access to a fresh, new-look supermarket with the completion of the Woolworths Emerald store renewal this week.

Customers can experience a new look fruit and vegetable section and organic produce selection, as well as an upgraded continental style deli and increased seafood offer.

“We’re pleased to be able to offer a convenient new look, full range supermarket for our customers, giving local shoppers a better shopping experience and providing all their grocery and fresh food needs in our updated store,” said store manager Brad Thomas.

“The new look supermarket is designed with the local customer at the forefront and we are pleased that the improvements will offer local residents a great shopping experience, enhanced fresh offerings and the convenience they are looking for,” said Mr Thomas.

The upgraded Woolworths store leads the way in futuristic convenience, allowing shoppers in the near future to use Woolworths new Scan&Go service.

The service is part of a new feature in the Woolworths app, where shoppers simply link their Everyday Rewards card, and find the Scan&Go option in the ‘More’ tab.

After adding a preferred payment method, shoppers can then use the app to scan their products as they add them to their trolley or basket, then skip the queues and head straight to the dedicated Scan&Go checkout.

Seafood lovers will be delighted to choose from the freshest fish fillets, prawns, oysters and 100% Tasmanian salmon. Quality is held to an incredibly

high standard in the sourcing of Woolworths seafood, with most sourced in Australian and New Zealand waters.

Weekend entertaining is made easy with the new continental deli, offering an extensive range of local and international cheeses along with everything needed for a gourmet charcuterie board.

The in-house bakery produces artisan breads, custom made cakes and a brand new range of premium stone baked breads. Their custom cake service can cater to any kind of celebration.

For busy shoppers, the Direct to Boot service means that you can shop from the comfort of your own home, removing the need to come into the store or wait for delivery services. The service will be relocated to the outside car park prior to Christmas and will allow online shoppers to select a pickup time convenient to them and park in one of the four new designated parking spaces. A Woolworths team member will then place the order into their boot.

The new look store is open from 7am to 10pm daily and is located at 383 - 385 Belgrave-Gembrook Rd, Emerald.

Yarra Ranges Council is calling for a resolution for people with “orphaned permits”, leaving them unable to complete construction.

Picture: ON FILE ing work, establishing the best pathway for resolution.”

The issue — where homeowners are left stranded with building permits unable to be completed — occurs when the original private building surveyor is no longer in business and no other surveyor will complete the job because of insurance liabilities.

A Victorian government spokesperson said “we’re already working with the Victorian Building Authority, councils and industry stakeholders to understand the extent of the orphaned permits issue and develop options to assist consumers resolving these matters.”

The issue has been worsened by a shortage of building surveyors and the Covid-19 pandemic.

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MAIL 9

NEWS

Remembering Leigh’s life

By Parker McKenzie As the curtain falls on the life of Leigh Colin Chandler, friends and family travelled far and wide to ensure he had one last full house at the theatre he lovingly built.

At a memorial service at The Basin Theatre on Monday 19 September, which was founded

by Leigh’s parents, the outpouring of love, affection and humour tells the story of a man who touched so many across his life.

The Basin was always his home, attending primary school there and Ferntree Gully Tech nearby. He travelled to the UK in his youth and around Australia in a caravan after meeting his wife Caroline and her two children Kirsten and Eboni, and their son Jesse after marrying in 1984.

“We talked all the time and loved each other completely,” Caroline said.

“We married in the garden where we are about to place Leigh.”

He built many great things, a skill he learned from his father.

“When Leigh returned to Australia, he started work with dad and decided to renovate the cabin which dad had built decades earlier,” his brother John Chandler said.

“He made mud bricks to use in the building and milled pine trees felled by the Salvation Army down off Sheffield Road. The mud bricks are still standing, even surviving a fire that destroyed the back of the old house.”

At Bear Gully in South Gippsland, he put his hands and skills to work by building Wirrega: a seven-bedroom mud brick tourist facility where he met many friends.

A cohort from Kakadu in the Northern Territory travelled the length of the country to a place where Leigh had hosted them many times, playing the didgeridoo before the memorial service and speaking from the heart on behalf of those who couldn’t make the journey.

While some in mob knew him as dad and his wife Caroline as mum, his stepchildren knew him by another name.

“Ralph — as we called him — in his Cuban heeled RM boots and his dog George came into our lives around 40 years ago,” Kirsten Brunton said.

Caroline Chandler with Leigh’s ashes, which were placed at his family home in The Basin.

Friends and family of Leigh Chandler came to celebrate his life at a memorial service at The Basin Theatre on Monday 20 September.

Pictures: SUPPLIED “You may wonder why we call him Ralph.

Not long after he and mum got together, I asked him what his favourite name was: he said Ralph, it was as simple as that.”

His children spoke of their father with a wicked sense of humour and mischief, which he instilled in all of them.

“Leigh, my dad, my best friend,” Jesse said.

“I’ll miss him always.”

He taught them how to pick Boronia plants, work the farm and how to build. Leigh was accomplished and knowledgeable, and he didn’t mind sharing his wisdom and experience with those he met along the way.

“When an old man dies, a library burns to the ground,” one speaker remarked, sparking

tears from the gathering of Leigh’s family and friends.

They spoke of performing alongside him on the very stage they were now wishing him goodbye, and of his iconic performance as Atahualpa, the king of the Incas in Peter Shaffer’s 1964 play The Royal Hunt of the Sun — directed by his mother Edna — when the theatre first opened.

Leigh died on Sunday 28 August at age 69 but will live on in the hearts of those who remember him. Attendees made the short walk after the service, where his ashes were placed at his family home, his forever home, in The Basin where he belongs.

Sophie Ashdowne is the 2022 Knox Local Hero

By Parker McKenzie The extraordinary effort of Sophie Ashdowne at Pinchapoo has earned her the title of Westfield Knox’s Local Hero and the charity $20,000 towards distributing personal hygiene products to disadvantaged people.

Sophie, who lives with Down syndrome and was also Knox Young Citizen of the Year, spends multiple days a week volunteering for the Bayswater-based not-for-profit assembling packs for distribution to those in need.

She said she was excited to support the charity and her “hero” Kate Austin, the CEO of Pinchapoo.

“I must say Kate is so beautiful,” she said.

“I like to put the stickers on the boxes and create them.”

While Sophie is still in school completing year 11, she spends two days a week — and sometimes more during the holidays — at Pinchapoo.

Kate said Sophie has had an amazing journey in winning the Knox local Heroes program, which was decided by an online vote, with a huge amount of support from the people around her.

“Putting aside the funding for a moment, I’m more excited for Sophie and being able to have a platform to talk about the benefits to an organization and business through greater inclusion and diversity in the workplace,” she said.

“Making sure that people have somewhere to belong and contributing in their own capacity, I love that everyone brings something different to the table.”

The charity advocates for access to hygiene products for both men and women, working towards ensuring every Australian has access to essential products.

Scentre Group national community ex10 MAIL

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Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

Personal hyigene charity Pinchapoo was the recipient of a $20,000 grant after Sophie Ashdowne was named the 202 Westfield Knox Local Hero.

Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE perience manager Pam Wilson said she congratulates all the recipients and those who voted for their 2022 Westfield Local Heroes.

“As we celebrate our fifth year of the Westfield Local Heroes program, we are once again overwhelmed by the inspiring nominations this year,” she said.

“Through the success of the program, we are proud to be able to continue to recognise

and reward everyday people doing extraordinary work in our communities.”

Kim Hallworth from Southern Cross Kids Camp Knox and Darren Hill from Knox Youth each received a $5000 grant after being nominated for the program.

Kate said she’d celebrate with Sophie, who recently turned 18, by having a glass of champagne.

“One-third of the volunteer workforce is individuals with special needs, we’re very passionate about having a job at someone’s level,” she said.

“Everybody in the community has got something to contribute and that’s why we’re so proud of Sophie.”

To find out more about Pinchapoo, visit www.pinchapoo.org.au mailcommunity.com.au

COMMUNITY COURSE GUIDE

Something for everyone MDLC offers cost effective general interest programs, local learning courses and is a Registered Training Organisation.

These include art/craft activities, health and exercise, adult literacy, computer skills, bookkeeping, smart phone workshops plus events and social activities. MDLC’s RTO offers industry training in White Card – prepare to work safely in the construction industry and Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA).

Upon completing this accredited training, you will receive your RSA certificate accredited by the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC).

Mountain District Learning Centre is also a provider of the Victorian State Government Reconnect Program.

The Reconnect Program strives to support Victorians experiencing disadvantage. The program assists participants to overcome the barriers preventing them from engaging in education and training and provides support into further study or employment pathways.

MDLC has funded places in the program to assist people aged 17- 64 years of age who have not been in engaged in education, training or employment for six months or more.

MDLC has already successfully completed several rounds of Reconnect, with over 80 per cent of participants partaking in further education. Many of these participants have either continued with education or found employment.

MDLC is very proud of our achievements and the achievements of our participants.

Mountain District Learning Centre’s Reconnect team of Kerri Gravina – Reconnect Manager and Racheal Edwards – Reconnect Case Worker, both work directly with participants to support their learning and wellbeing needs.

They assist with reengagement in education

Mountain District Learning Centre. by helping them overcome the barriers they may face.

Each Reconnect participant receives State Government funding for courses they are interested in, and any service they might require helping maintain their social, emotional, or mental well-being.

MDLC’s Reconnect Program helps people build resilience and capability to set them on the path of success.

For more information, you are welcome to contact MDLC on (03) 9758 7859 or email office@mdlc.org.au The Reconnect Program is an initiative of the Victorian Government The new course guide for MDLC is out now, you can find it online at www.mdlc.com.au or pick up a copy from various community organisations or your local library.

Please contact Kerri Gravina at Mountain District Learning Centre for more information on 0481 993 182 Monday to Friday or via email kerrig@mdlc.org.au

Kerri Gravina from MDLC.

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Delivered by Mountain District Learning Centre 13-15 The Avenue, Ferntree Gully VIC 3156 www.mdlc.com.au | 9758 7859 | RTO 3969 Reconnect is an initiative of the Victorian State Government 12569421-MS39-22

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MAIL 11

COMMUNITY COURSE GUIDE

Re-engaging volunteers On Wednesday 7 September Volunteer for Knox (V4K) held a ‘Network with a Difference’ meeting for 30 Volunteer Managers of notfor-profit Volunteer Involving Organisations (VIO) in the City of Knox.

Volunteer Managers were welcomed to network on the topic of re engaging volunteers post lockdown.

Networking face to face brought a togetherness that organisations have missed during previous lockdowns and all involved appreciated the opportunity to be able to share in the ups and downs of volunteer life.

Not-for-profit organisations rely heavily on volunteers to continue the valuable work that they do and reduced volunteer numbers have impacted organisations putting a strain on the workplace.

Volunteer for Knox are continually looking for ways to support registered VIO’s with resources, guidance, training and creating connections and felt it was very timely to deliver an Art Therapy for Stress Management Workshop during the meeting.

Balance4Life hosted a hands on workshop that allowed volunteer managers to explore ways to have less stress and more balance in life.

Taking time to re-evaluate how to handle stress was very refreshing and left volunteer manager’s feeling renewed to fight another day.

Conversations throughout the morning indicated that volunteers are returning slowly to not-for-profit organisations but with caution.

Volunteer Involving Organisations have had to work hard to gain confidence in their volunteer teams.

Volunteer for Knox’s statistics show that the

Volunteers managers from City of Knox met to discuss how to re-engage with volunteers. largest progress being made in volunteering is in the area of disability. More discussions of inclusiveness were encouraged with V4K offering assistance to develop a Disability Action Plan.

Volunteering can play and important role in the lives of people with a disability, offering

opportunities for social, economic and cultural inclusion.

Volunteering has been linked to increased health and wellbeing and improved self esteem, while also reducing stress, loneliness and depression.

Continued support for both volunteer In-

Picture: SUPPLIED volving organisations and volunteers is key to building stronger connections and as these network meetings have demonstrated we are stronger together.

If you are looking to volunteer contact office@volunteerforknox.com.au for further information.

TERM 4 COURSES ARE NOW OPEN FOR BOOKING!

COURSES & CLASSES A large range of educational, social and recreational activities and courses for adults and children.

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FOR MORE INFO OR TO BOOK, CONTACT US: • 9758 7081 • enquiries@coonarahouse.org.au • • www.coonarahouse.org.au • 22 WILLOW RD, UPPER FERNTREE GULLY VIC 3156 12 MAIL

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COMMUNITY COURSE GUIDE

Exploring men’s health After an incredibly successful year for ArtSpace Selby, hosting a plethora of visual art from local community members, Selby Community House presents its final exhibition for 2022, ‘Man Overboard’.

Exhibiting from Wednesday 26 October until Saturday 5 December at Selby Community House, ‘Man Overboard’ provides a platform for discussion about the importance of valuing men’s mental and physical health.

The exhibition kicks off with a free opening event with nibbles and live music, open to the whole community.

‘Man Overboard’ is an exhibition focusing on male mental and physical health, providing a platform for discussion about this topic, the exhibition presents artwork from local male artists.

‘Man Overboard’ exhibits a mixed medium of artworks. The exhibition showcases a mixed-medium presentation of artworks, each reflecting upon the theme of men’s health.

Included within the ArtSpace Selby program is a payment and 100 per cent commission going toward the artists; all of which is accomplished by funding from the Yarra Ranges Council.

Involved within the exhibition is a fundraising initiative for the Belgrave Men’s Shed - formally Selby Men’s Shed. Prints of the artworks will be sold with 100 per cent of the profit donated to the organisation.

The fundraiser reflects upon Men’s Sheds as hubs of companionship, purpose and community.

To find out more about this exhibition, visit www.selbyhouse.org.au.

Gerard Russo - Decay

Ross Miller - The Journey

MAN OVERBOARD 28th October > 5th December [Open during office hours] Man overboard is an exhibition focusing on Male Mental and Physical Health. Providing a platform for discussion about this topic, the exhibition presents artwork from local Male artists.

Exhibition opening:

BACKGROUND ARTWORK BY STEPHEN GLOVER

Friday 28th October, 6-7pm FREE with Live Music and Nibbles

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MAIL 13

NEWS

ISA Brown chickens are egg-laying chickens. 297889

Mrs Barkley lets go of one of her chickens.

The alpaca guarding the chickens. 297889

297889

Barkley to fly the coop

By Jamie Salter Springfern Farm in Cockatoo is closing up shop, as property owner Alison Barkley trades in her work boots for a career in real estate.

It’s the perfect opportunity for those looking for egg-laying chickens to add to their properties, with up to 500 chickens available for sale.

Mrs Barkley moved to a 66-acre farm in Cockatoo about five and a half years ago after growing up in suburbia.

Living on such a large property, she thought of a way to make money off the land and started off with 230 chickens.

“I thought I’d start off with about 30 chickens but I ended up with 230 chickens and then a month later I got another 290 chickens, and it sort of grew from there,” she said.

“It took a little while to build up, but at my peak I had about 1200 chickens and I was getting 1000 eggs a day.

“We also ran cattle here for a while as well so they eat the grass down and the chickens follow after the cattle - it was a really good system.”

Mrs Barkley began selling her eggs at markets in Berwick, Lilydale and Ferntree Gully before making the switch to wholesale.

“I started off doing markets but it started to affect family because I was at markets all the time, so I opted for wholesale and had up to 20 stores selling my eggs,” she said.

“I actually went along to one of the Eastern Dandenong Ranges Business and Tourism meetings and got more local business from that.”

She now houses 500 ISA Brown chickens of thee different ages and spends 30 minutes a day collecting the eggs.

The farm is also home to an Alpaca, which acts as a guardian, protecting the chickens from predators including foxes and eagles.

Mrs Barkley said she had lost a few chickens to eagles over the years.

“Eagles are our biggest threat because they can just fly in and grab them,” she said.

“The eagles are huge but the chickens are always on the lookout for them - they’re very fast and can hide within seconds.”

New chickens are brought to the farm three times a year and older chickens are rehomed after 12 months.

Mrs Barkley said it takes time and effort to train the chickens.

“When the chickens arrive, you’ve got to keep them locked up for a couple of days so they know that it’s their safe place before you let them go free range,” she said.

“We train them to go to bed in the first week, then we get a nest box and teach them to lay their eggs which takes about a month.

“That’s going in there every morning and picking up chickens and putting them where they need to go.”

But working seven days a week has taken a lot of time from away Mrs Barkley’s family.

“It is hard on the family and limits your ability to go away,” she said.

“On Christmas Day we went out for breakfast and then we went to collect the eggs before lunch - we had about 50 chickens out that we had to catch as well as doing the eggs.”

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Property owner Alison Barkley is looking forward to changing careers. 297889

The home raised and hand gathered free range eggs. 297889

At its peak, the farm was home to 1200 chickens. 297889

About 500 chickens are on the farm. 297889

Springfern Farm is closing down. 297889

and the benefits of farming on her physical health, the job had proved to be taxing.

“Especially in winter you just get really crap weather for ages and some days you don’t get a break from the weather and you have to put your jacket, hat and gumboots on and go out in the mud - it’s not fun,” she said.

“If the weather was kind, I’d probably do it forever,” she said.

During the 2021 storms that hit the region, one of Mrs Barkley’s caravans rolled, leaving 400 birds homeless.

“They had to spend one night under a marquee but then we managed to get a spare cara-

van in from one of my workers,” she said.

That was a turning point for Mrs Barkley, who could have grown her business further but decided to scale down.

“It was to either spend lots of money and get another one but I thought about what I wanted to do,” she said.

She is now looking forward to changing careers completely by working in real estate locally as a buyer’s agent.

“I’ve always had an interest in real estate and trading in my work boots. It’s time for a change and it’s something that I really enjoy.“

The business is closing with 500 chickens up for grabs - 16-month-old chickens for $12 each and 12-month-old chickens for $15 each.

Collections are held at nighttime so as not to cause stress to the chickens.

“People meet me here with their boxes and crates,” she said.

“I don’t let people take one chicken unless they’re taking it home to one other chicken equal numbers are the best because they like to be with each other.”

Those who are interested are encouraged to SMS their orders to Mrs Barkley on 0417 896 662. mailcommunity.com.au

SHOP LOCAL BELGRAVE

Passionate, wise support If you live with disability, injury or illness and are looking to find work, WISE Employment can help you every step of the way.

Australian and not-for-profit, WISE Employment have been supporting people into work across Australia since 1992.

WISE believes the entire community benefits when everyone is supported to achieve their potential and believes all customers are unique with support tailored to provide exactly what you need to thrive.

The passionate, local team will meet with you to understand your skills and career goals, then develop a plan to help you achieve them.

The team are experts in helping you not only find a job, but keep it too. After they have helped you with a resume, interview prep and introduced you to some of their fantastic employers, they will continue to support you in your new role.

WISE can help with workplace modifications, role specific training and equipment, on the job support and a provide a friendly ear to listen and give advice.

If you’re an employer looking for a fantastic new employee – WISE provide pre-screened, job ready candidates that match your unique business needs.

Their services are completely free of charge, and the team can also help you access wage subsidies and supports for your new team member.

WISE Employment customers love the support they are provided, “WISE actually care about you on a personal level, not just a professional level. I feel heard and understood and excited about returning to work.”

The local team would love to chat with you, visit wiseeployment.com.au or give us a call on 1800 685 105.

Karen, Jackie, Wayne and Cortney from Wise Employment. 296945

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

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

Serving the community since 1986 General Practice: • Offering Full Body Skin Checks • Health Assessment • Management Plans • Practice Nurse • Onsite Pathology Collection • Immunisations

Specialising in Surgical Office Procedures: • Removal Of Skin Lesions & Skin Cancers • Upper Eyelid Reduction • Vasectomy • Nail Surgery • Removal Of Benign Anal ConditionsHemorrhoids/ Fissures/Fistulae

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Personalised, caring and innovative supports to help you thrive in work and life. Let’s chat.

hello@grumblinggoose.com.au grumblinggoose

8.00am till 4.00pm

Grumbling Goose 1678 Burwood Highway Belgrave mailcommunity.com.au

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MAIL 15

OPINION

Long Covid journey Focal Point

Graeme Dawson

The months followed with my article titles, e.g., ‘Searching for peace in the storm’ and ‘Unmet expectations’.

Uncertainty reigned – Can we still go on that long planned holiday? Will I still have my job? How will we be able to home school the kids? & ‘what about my hip operation that I am about to have, having waited for months?

Given that Omicron B4 & B5 and some other loose cannon variants were and are still taking a toll, We should note that up to the 21st, (last week), there were 5351 deaths from Covid in Victoria this year to that date, and yet there is a pre-election football being kicked around; that of mask wearing.

The warring parties are either trying to get votes as the ‘good guys’ who are claiming to save older people’s lives, and other parties getting in with those who are sick of wearing masks. Not much listening to health experts

from what I can observe.

If you have been on the train with me, you might have noticed that to date I have written 43 articles since March ‘20, most directly addressing Covid issues but others where we have been struggling as a community, like the devastating storms in the mountains and the 43 days of power outages as a result, making 20 articles in ’21 alone.

To round out my comments, I would like to identify some current stresses which may or may not be related to Covid directly, but are certainly stresses that we didn’t need.

Many are struggling with the raised cost of living, which in the main are fuel and food costs.

Many items on our usual shopping lists are just not affordable.

Council rate rises, electricity and gas price rises, mainly for heating, are almost out of reach for the average wage earner, to say nothing of the pensioner.

An air of optimism a year ago led young couples to buy their dream homes, only to be crushed now with monthly interest rate rises.

Many Blessings as we struggle together and be encouraged, I’ll travel with you to the last station if I am still able.

Graeme Dawson, Chaplain to Community

ed

Publish

y

Tuesda

PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN Ljubljana pointed out various challenges in launching online book fairs to promote and connect publishers across Slovenia.

In South Korea, students were “told to study”, but Soyoung Jung from Bucheon highlighted the city’s considerable efforts to promote “global citizenship” and encourage reading on themes such as gender equality, social justice, and community cohesion.

Anne-Marie Kelly from Dublin emphasised the importance of universal themes such as human friendship in these unusual and uncertain times. In contrast to books by established and well known local authors such as Edna O’Brien’s The Country Girls Trilogy in 2019 and Christine Dwyer Hickey’s Tatty in 2020, in 2021 the city “took a risk and gambled” on debut author Rónán Hession’s Leonard and Hungry Paul as the One Dublin One Book choice.

curtain call The Bakery at 1812 Theatre presents The History Boys The play opens in Cutlers’ Grammar School, Sheffield, a fictional boys grammar school in the north of England. Set in the mid-late 1980s, the play follows a group of history pupils preparing for the Oxford and Cambridge entrance examinations under the guidance of three teachers with contrasting styles.

Hector, and eccentric teacher, delights in knowledge for its own sake, but his ambitious headmaster wants the school to move up the academic league table and hires Irwin, a supply teacher to introduce a rather more cynical and ruthless style of teaching. Hector is discovered sexually fondling a boy and later Irwin’s latent homosexuality inclinations emerge.

Season: October 6 – 29. Bookings: 9758 3964 The Basin Theatre presents Gentlemen Incorporated A slightly risque Australian comedy by Deborah Mulhall and directed by Julie Cunningham.

Damien is a male escort who runs rather successful business that caters to the wealthy and successful women.

When his old friend Marc returns from backpacking around Europe, Damien talks him into ‘helping’ wit an over-tight schedule.

But unbeknownst to Marc and Damien, Marc’s mother is one pf Damien’s clients. So is his girlfriend…

Season: October 6 – October 16. Bookings: 1300 784 668 Don’t forget CPP Community Theatre’s production of The Addams Family. Season opens October 7. Bookings: 9447 014 584 between 1pm & 3pm.

·

“Reader Development” Roundtable This is the first in a series of three articles featuring the 2022 Cities of Literature Meeting hosted by Melbourne, our own UNESCO City of Literature since 2008.

The 2022 Cities of Literature Network Meeting recently took place in Melbourne, attended by representatives from 26 of the world’s 42 Cities of Literature.

Three concurrent roundtables were held during the week-long event to address the question: “How will the last five years impact your next five years?” Discussions focused on three themes – literary programming, libraries, and reader development.

Participants at the “Reader Development” Roundtable included delegates from Angoulême, Bucheon, Dublin, Dunedin, Exeter, Gothenberg, Granada, Heidelberg, Jakarta, Ljubljana, Milan, Norwich, Quebec, Nottingham, and Seattle, Also present were literary professionals from Australian Poetry, City of Melbourne Libraries, Kids’ Own Publishing, Pantera Press, PEN Melbourne, the Wheeler Centre, and Writers Victoria – just to name a few.

As everyone noted, confronted by widespread, large-scale COVID pandemic lockdowns in the past two years, cities around the globe had to “go digital” and shift their focus online to facilitate reading and foster readership.

A wide variety of stories and experiences were shared. For example, Damjan Zorc from

Kemp’s

According to Dublin UNESCO City of Literature website, the book celebrates “those uncelebrated people who have the ability to change the world, not by effort or force, but through their appreciation of all that is special and overlooked in life”. Thanks to the city’s efforts to make the book available to borrow from libraries, electronically via BorrowBox, and to buy from bookstores across Ireland, it has been extremely popular in digital, audio and print formats.

Laura Prinsloo from Jakarta described how local authors and publishers learned to become digital content creators and even studio producers, using social media and especially TikTok to promote their publications. Hannah Trevarthen from Nottingham further explained how the city’s libraries kept up with the times by learning what was trendy on Netflix so that readers can “binge read” content related to popular shows and movies.

Nicky Page from Dunedin showcased a different approach, with the city inviting authors and poets to film themselves reading and writing stories. These recordings of “daily history” were shared online using social media, before being archived for future generations to glimpse what it is like to experience a global pandemic.

The project encouraged people to connect and collaborate while still feeling safe and comfortable in their own private time and space.

·

During rehearsal for upcoming production of ‘The History Boys’. Picture: THE 1812 THEATRE

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AVONSLEIGH Avonsleigh News & General Store 445 Belgrave Gembrook Road BELGRAVE Belgrave Newsagency 1704 Burwood Highway BELGRAVE Woolworths Supermarket 1629 Burwood Highway

EMERALD Bell Real Estate 313 Main Street FERNTREE GULLY Upper Ferntree Gully Newsagents, 1202 Burwood Highway FERNTREE GULLY Glenfern Road Milk Bar , 83 Glenfern Road

MONBULK Monbulk Newsagency & Officesmart 76 Main Street OLINDA Monbulk Bowling Club, 11 Moores Road OLINDA Olinda Cellars Shop 7/540 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

BELGRAVE IGA 151 Belgrave-Hallam Road BELGRAVE Chandler & Co Real Estate 1689 Burwood Hwy

FERNTREE GULLY Coles Supermarket Mountain Gate SC Ferntree Gully Road FERNTREE GULLY Woolworths Supermarket Mountain Gate SC

OLINDA Ranges at Olinda 5 Old Main Road OLINDA IGA Supermarket 1526 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

BELGRAVE First National Real Estate 1 Bayview Road BELGRAVE SOUTH Belgrave South Motors 138 Belgrave-Hallam Rd BORONIA Boronia Mall Newsagent Corner Floriston Road & Chandler Road

Ferntree Gully Road FERNTREE GULLY Mountain Gate Newsagency & Lotto Mountain Gate SC 9b Ferntree Gully Road FERNTREE GULLY Ferntree Gully Authorized Newsagency Shp 2/69 Station Street

OLINDA Bell Real Estate 11 Main Road SASSAFRAS Sassafras General Store 391 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road SILVAN Shell Princi Motors, 275 - 277 Monbulk Road

COCKATOO Ranges First National Shop 2, 24 McBride Street COCKATOO IGA Cockatoo 34 McBride Street

TECOMA BP Service Station 1524 Burwood Highway TECOMA Bon Ton General Store 1537 Burwood Highway

EMERALD Kaye Charles RE 12a Kilvington Drive EMERALD Ritchies SUPA IGA 342 Belgrave-Gembrook Road EMERALD Emerald Village Newsagency 4 Kilvington Drive

FERNTREE GULLY Shell Service Station 1140 Burwood Highway FERNY CREEK Ferny Creek & Post Office 195 Mount Dandenong Tourist Road GEMBROOK Gembrook Post Office& Newsagent 72 Main Street GEMBROOK IGA Supermarket 83/85 Main Street

EMERALD Woolworths Supermarket Belgrave Gembrook Road EMERALD Auto Plus More Petrol Station 365 Main Street

KALORAMA Post Office 1209 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road MONBULK Best Repairs & Accessories Monbulk - 26 Main Road

TREMONT Caltex Service Station 100 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road UPWEY Newsagent 18 Main Street

EMERALD Shell Service Station 336 Main Street EMERALD Barry Plant Real Estate 1/ 321 Main Street

MONBULK Food Express 128 Main Road MONBULK Woolworths Supermarket Main Road & Moores Road

UPWEY IGA Supermarket 62-64 Main Street UPWEY Yarra Ranges Shire Council 40 Main Street

TECOMA O’Brien Real Estate 1567 Burwood Highway TECOMA McDonald’s Restaurant 1529 Burwood Highway THE PATCH The Patch Store and Post office 16 The Patch Road

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We have all been on a long and dreadful Covid train journey and if we think back we didn’t know what sort of train it was and there was no destination on the ticket.

I remember meeting the then new chief editor of the newly formed and named ‘StarMail’ papers, and he had just come back from a meeting with editors from other papers as they tried to come to grips with this thing called Covid and how they could respond to it.

When he found out that I had written for 16 years in the ‘Mail’papers, he latched on to me and said, “When can you start?”

Start? I was as out of my depth as much as anyone was.

However working on what I could pick up from other media, and feeling like most of us felt at the time, we got an article out on the 31st of March ’20.

The first article was meant to help us identify with each other, with me trying to help guide the unknown.

That first title was, ‘Staying calm in the whirlpool’. All we knew was that we were going around in circles, which like the goldfish in the bowl, we found the scenery was the same every time around.

There was so much of the unknown at the time with many questions and fewer answers.

What’s coming up in theatres

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MAIL 17

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Classical music to enjoy

By Tyler Wright Knox-based flautist Kelsy De Prada and pianist Rosa Hwang will be teaming up to perform a recital at the Dandenong Ranges Music Council in Upwey on Sunday 9 October.

De Prada and Hwang will be performing a variety of music from composers Schubert and Piazzolla in the Hills after plans to perform the concert live on station 3MBS fell through earlier in the year.

“When a lot of people think of classical music or instrumental music with piano, it’s something you go into the city to see, or it’s something that’s got this [kind of] pretentious attitude about it,” De Prada said.

“But what we wanted to do was to bring it somewhere that for once was close to us - this is the closest concert we’ve ever had - and we just wanted to make it really personal.”

Like many in the music industry, De Prada had her career as a flautist interrupted by Covid-19 in 2020, with the brakes put on both an opera tour to China and a trial position with an orchestra in Bulgaria.

But coming back and delivering local concerts with fellow musicians like Hwang, makes the return to the stage “so much more sweeter,” De Prada said.

“A lot of musicians have completely retrained in other areas now... [so suddenly you’re left on your own, trying to scramble and make new contacts with different people you’ve never met before, because of COVID,” De Prada said.

“It has had a really big impact in that way, but it does mean that when we’ve come back into playing music this year, and a little bit last year as well...It’s so much more special, I think.”

De Prada said since the easing of Covid-10 restrictions, audiences have begun cheering

Kelsy De Prada and Rosa Hwang will be performing at the Dandenong Ranges Music Council on Sunday 9 October. and chatting after performances, with everyone “excited to have that shared experience”.

“There are programs like the Australian Digital Concert Hall, a classical music streaming service that’s become really popular that was born from COVID, but watching concerts through that, it’s just not same as going to share it with other people and being able to talk to the person you’ve never met before

an interval and being like ‘hey, that was really cool, what did you think?’ De Prada said.

“You don’t have to know everything about music to enjoy it, you can just rock up and be like ‘hey, I’ve never heard a flute before, what does it sound like? Let’s have some fun and learn some more about it.”

And with a $10 ticket, concert-goers will be able to do just that, with an afternoon tea pro-

Picture: SUPPLIED

vided after the hour long classical music concert. De Prada and Hwang will begin performing at 2pm, and anyone is welcome.

The Dandenong Ranges Music Council is located at 1451 Burwood Highway, Upwey, with the only entry through Marchant Avenue.

To book your tickets, visit https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing?eid=957424&

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

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Read it now Scan the QR CODE

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NEWS

Platypus Festival returns

By Tyler Wright Belgrave’s Platypus Festival will return after a two-year hiatus, with up to 200 people expected to visit Belgrave Lake Park on Saturday 8 October to celebrate our webbed-footed friends of the water.

In partnership with Yarra Ranges Council and Melbourne Water, the Southern Dandenong’s Landcare Group is looking to bring awareness to the vulnerable species, due to the mammal’s presence in Monbulk Creek, which flows into Belgrave Lake Park.

“They used to be detected in places like Ferny Creek, where Ferny Creek and Monbulk Creek meet further downstream, and even down into Dandenong Creek,” Eliza Lamb, Southern Dandenong’s Land Group committee member said.

“I’ve never seen one in the wild, I would love to see one...it would just be such an amazing experience...because they are just magical creatures,” Ms Lamb said.

Feeding on macroinvertebrates in waterways and helping to cycle aquatic nutrients by digging up sediment, Ms Lamb said the absence of platypus from waterways they used to find their home in is “concerning”.

“They build their burrows in bends of streams... in coarse woody debris, and that’s really important for them.”

“There was a time when waterways were cleared for recreation, so people could move through them easily and coarse woody debris, logs and branches were cleared out of the waterway, and the platypus rely on those for their habitat.”

According to Vinnie Aulich, Environmental Volunteer and Project Support Officer at Yarra Ranges Council, platypus are a “species in decline,” with their habitat shrinking by at least 22 per cent in the last 30 years.

“They are a cryptic species and not easily

Platypus are a vulnerable species, and this year’s Platypus Festival in Belgrave is aiming to raise awareness about our webbed-footed water friends.

Pictures: ON FILE

A platypus in Monbulk Creek.

observed however they are present in a number or creeks and rivers within the Yarra Ranges including Monbulk Creek,” Mr Aulich said.

Through the upcoming Platypus Festival, these bodies will seek to educate and engage families and young children on the challenges faced by the species and the need for their protection, given they are now largely missing from local waterways.

Ms Lamb said Melbourne Water will undertake eDNA sampling at this year’s Platypus

in some water environments, but not others.

These are the next generations coming up and it gives them a good platform to learn about the environment and then take action themselves.”

Belgrave Lake Park is located at 35 Park Drive, Belgrave, and the Platypus Festival will run from 11am to 3pm on Saturday 8 October.

For more information, visit https://www. yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Experience/Events/ Platypus-Festival

Festival, wildlife education business Blacksnake Productions will be holding a wildlife display and Friends of Belgrave Lake Park will be holding a stall. “[Melbourne Water] will have some samples water bugs in trays that children can get up close and personal with the magnifying glass and have a look,” Ms Lamb said.

“Water bugs tell us so much about water quality, we have certain species that are more sensitive to chemicals and pollution in water and so you’ll find certain species are present

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Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

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MAIL 19

PUZZLES

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QUICK CROSSWORD

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30-09-22

William Matthews Funerals 24 HOUR SERVICE - ALL AREAS

9739 6868 45 Cave Hill Rd, Lilydale www.williammatthewsfunerals.com.au 12567433-SN37-22

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PEACE AND PRIVACY ON 2.5 ACRES EVER so privately located on sealed Bonham Road, this property suits a multitude of uses. Previously run as a nursery, there is still some infrastructure there, igloos and large water filtration plant, tanks and a dam, however if this not what you want, simply sell off or remove the existing infrastructure and you have a clear slate of gently sloping land with hedgerows on all sides offering complete privacy.

The home consists of 3 zoned bedrooms and a study with the large master bedroom offering a sitting area plus an ensuite.

The zoned living is great for the family, with a central meals/living/family flowing to the ‘sunroom’ or you can get away from everyone downstairs to the cozy lounge and enjoy the wood heater on winters’ nights.

The central kitchen with stone benchtops and dishwasher looks out over the rear of the property.

Outside there are a number of sheds plus double garage and a couple of carports, with plenty of parking.

The front yard is amazing and has just been landscaped, so you can watch it develop and grow in years to come.

Special features include split system, solar panels, mains water and tank water to name but a few..

Ideally located only a few minutes from

Monbulk shops with a sealed drive into town, or close to Emerald also, with The Patch store and the sought after Primary School nearby. Just under an hours drive from Melbourne CBD and 10 minutes

drive to Belgrave train station. A fantastic community and fantastic lifestyle.

This is a property that will impress the whole family, so book your inspection today before it’s too late. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 21 Bonham Road, MONBULK Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 4 garage Price: $1,400,000-$1,500,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 and Jack Murray 0493 136 937, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL, 9754 6111

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

Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

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MAIL 21

HOME FOCUS

UPDATED BRICK HOME, ON FLAT BLOCK LOCATED in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, this solid brick home in a quiet court location is waiting and ready for new owners.

Featuring 3 bedrooms, two with builtin robes, the main with walk in robe and ensuite. Main bathroom with shower and bath. Electric stove top, open plan living, gas heating, Coonara wood heater and separate laundry.

Through the French doors you will find the outdoor living area, flat, low maintenance, sunny backyard on over ½ an acre. The perfect spot to enjoy the fresh air. The property backs onto the Ann Court Reserve, giving you plenty of privacy.

Just a short drive to the Mount Dandenong township where you will find a supermarket, cafes and many great restaurants plus a fabulous community. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 15 Ann Court, MOUNT DANDENONG Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $815,000-$895,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Grant Skipsey 0418 528 102, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL, 9754 6111 22 MAIL

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Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

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Ranges PERFECT In EVERY WaY

MONBULK 94 MOORES ROaD ShORT STROLL TO MONBULK MAIN STREET

a PIECE OF BELGaVE’S HISTORY

$660,000-$726,000 3A 1B 1C

Fall in love with this immaculately presented home from the moment you step inside.

Offering a flexible open plan with the option of either three bedrooms, two plus study or a separate TV room as currently set up. Other features include large glass windows & doors surrounding the dining, kitchen & living room, renovated bathroom, OFP, a generous sized hostess kitchen with a European laundry, DGH & evaporative cooling. Terraced block with a treed outlook, fully fenced with established fruit trees & vegetable garden pods.

Jan Brewster 0409 558 805

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

$685,000-$753,000 4A 1B

Step back in time to all the character of yesteryear – high ceilings, polished baltic pine floors, OFP, a combustion wood heater & leadlight windows all in a quirky FUnKY home.

Features include split systems, two levels with 2+ living areas, renovated kitchen with a 900mm gas cooker, separate studio/bungalow, and ample storage. Tucked away in your own sun-drenched garden of 1,231sqm with meandering pathways opening to private nooks & crannies. Handy location being only 700 metres to the town centre.

1.5 aCRES BaCKInG OnTO a CREEK

$850,000-$930,000 3A 1B 2C

This impressive home sitting on the high side & north-facing is set on a quiet no-through road. Stepping inside you will love the generous family & lounge rooms, floor to ceiling windows, powder room with a 2nd toilet, split-level design features clerestory windows, raked ceilings, wood fire, entertaining deck, updated kitchen with ample bench & storage options, GDH, large split system, plus ducted cooling & ceiling fans. Outside includes an impressive sweeping sealed driveway, double carport and off-street parking.

Jan Brewster 0409 558 805

BELGRAVE 16 WEDGEWOOD aVEnUE LARGE RAMBLING hOME

Grant Skipsey 0418 528 102

SET TO IMPRESS

SELBy 18 JOHnS ROaD 5 MINUTE DRIVE TO BELGRAVE CENTRAL

We put you first

ThE PATCh 97 PRIORS ROaD PICTURESQUE SETTING

$1,230,000-$1,330,000 4A 2B 1C

Sitting amongst the most sublime established gardens, this home showcases why The Patch is one of the most sought-after suburbs in the Dandenong Ranges & through every window you are spoilt with stunning garden vistas. This well maintained home features BIR’s in all bedrooms, Tasmania Oak kitchen, spacious living areas, wood fire, two split systems, ducted vacuum, large paved covered entertaining area, sheds, outdoor spa, single carport, cubby & swings and property access is via a sealed driveway.

Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522

“We Put You First”

Jack Murray 0493 136 937

1 Bayview Rd, Belgrave Shop 2, 24 McBride Street, Cockatoo Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

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MAIL 23

HOME FOCUS

GORGEOUS AND IMMACULATE HOME THIS stunning Federation style character home has been built with quality, comfort and style in mind, creating a feeling of warmth and ambience from the moment you walk through the front door to be greeted by the endless views over the valley and distant mountains beyond.

Enjoy the elegant features of the home including 9ft ceilings, decorative cornices, ceiling roses, feature lead light windows, plantation shutters and polished floorboards.

The luxury continues with a spacious country style kitchen with integrated fridge and 20mm stone benchtops which overlooks the family room, both of which take in those amazing views.

Add to this a formal dining room, (which would make a comfortable 4th bedroom if required), the formal lounge with ambient gas log fire and down the hall you will find the Master with walk-in robe and ensuite effect bathroom and the spacious 2nd bedroom with built-in robes.

Outside you will find the gorgeous, landscaped gardens with meandering paths, a sealed drive, off street parking, an abundance of sun and all in a quiet no through road. This immaculate property needs to be seen to be fully appreciated.

Call Samantha Scott 0438 680 032 to arrange an inspection today.

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

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 15 Upper Grieve Road, AVONSLEIGH Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: $880,000-$960,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Samantha Scott, 0438 680 032, BELL REAL ESTATE, EMERALD, 5968 6222 24 MAIL

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Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

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3 Luke Place, Guys Hill

$780,000 - $850,000

Private & well positioned with a lovely view! 5 Mins to Berwick!

22 View Street Avonsleigh

$1,500,000 - $1,620,000

Stylish home in a fantastic location!

Beautifully and lovingly renovated 2 bedroom, 1 Bathroom home. Nestled opposite the golf course, with a gorgeous park like view, you will notice the welcoming entertaining deck and landscaped front garden. With slate floors and character filled exposed beams, a wood heater, two split system air conditioners, and bi-fold front window that opens up onto the front entertaining deck. There is a modern and stylish kitchen, and also barn-door features leading to each of the two generous bedrooms. This home contains a European laundry, is rendered, and has a landscaped and low maintenance secure rear yard. With a great flat area for children or pets to enjoy, there is also a handy garden shed, as well as having a separate rear access to the property.

This beautiful home on a flat fully fenced block with wrap around verandahs, concrete paths, and in walking distance to Emerald amenities, contains 5 bedrooms all with BIRs and has 3 large immaculate bathrooms. With a welcoming colour palette, black tap hardware, high ceilings, modern kitchen with butlers pantry, stone bench tops and celing fans in all light filled bedrooms. The master bedroom with WIR and expansive ensuite. There are two lounge rooms and separate dining area, and an exquisite outdoor entertaining area with ceiling fans and TV point. Wood fire heater, ducted heating & cooling ensure comfort. There’s also a fire pit area, above ground vegetable gardens, a chicken coop, and childrens play equipment area. Double garage and 15x9m separate shed with double electric roller doors, concreted floor, power and carport attached.

Contact: Brennan Mileto 0422 996 451

Contact: Aaron Day 0407 365 994

4 Lisheen Road Cockatoo

$960,000 - $1,050,000

2701 Gem-Launching Pl Rd Gembrook

Spacious and stunning centrally located family home!

Dual occupancy delight on over 2.5 acres, with a pool!

Beautiful home with 6 large bedrooms with BIRs and 3 bathrooms. Located on 1/2 an acre, with mains services and 5 mins away from Cockatoo township. The master bedroom has a generous ensuite. Contemporary kitchen with gas stove and 900mm electric oven, overlooks the lounge area, and the rumpus room is complete with a pool table. Features include high ceilings, ducted heating, ducted vacuum, a wood fire, and air conditioner. The laundry offers direct access to the fully fenced yard, and there is a fully covered 9*12m rear entertaining deck, landscaped gardens with fruit trees, flat rear yard, a dog yard, concreted entertaining area and chicken coop. There is under house storage and a new 4 car shed with concreted floor and 4m high walls.

The main home has 4 bedrooms & a study. Master bedroom with WIR and ensuite, 2 of the remaining 3 bedrooms have BIRs. The kitchen has an electric stove & oven, stone bench tops & blackwood cabinetry. The home features split system air conditioning, cosy wood heater in the lounge, zoned ducted heating, and ducted vacuum cleaning. The laundry offers direct access to the DLUG with electric roller doors.

There is a covered pergola, in-ground swimming pool and large fish pond. The manicured, level rear yard contains the separate occupancy with a kitchenette, lounge room and spacious bedroom and bathroom. There is also a double garage, wood shed, vegetable garden, fruit trees, chicken coop, and a pony paddock.

Contact: Bethany Day 0438 844 968

Contact: Bethany Day 0438 844 968

bellrealestate.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

$1,200,000 - $1,300,000

5968 6222

311-313 Main St, Emerald

Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

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MAIL 25

HOME FOCUS

18 ACRES WITH INVITING HOME IF you seek your own private oasis or a premier place to work from home, this 18 acre property provides an abundance of outstanding options. Picturesque, peaceful, private, and set beside Wards Road Reserve parkland, this property will provide a lifetime of serenity and enjoyment.

For hobbyists, this impressive land comes equipped with several freestanding sheds.

Useable as car space, machinery storage, entertaining zones, or more, these bonus buildings will suit any lifestyle.

For gathering with family and friends, the gazebo is a gorgeous backdrop. The level lawns and peaceful pond are the perfect vantage points from which to take in the scenic surrounds.

For family living, this single-level stone home is enriched with vaulted timber ceilings and floor to ceiling windows to enhance the sense of roominess and relaxation.

The floorplan is cleverly conceived to hold the family room with wood fire, dining area

with covered alfresco access, and kitchen with freestanding cooker at the heart of the home.

The formal lounge with wood fire neighbours the main bedroom with ensuite and walk-in robe to create a comfortable parents’ wing of this home.

This exceptional property only 3km from Monbulk’s Main Road amenities and schools takes semi-rural living to a new level of comfort. Don’t delay, make a tree-change today.

Breathtaking 18 acre property with adaptable freestanding sheds Beautiful stone single-level family residence with double carport Open plan kitchen with quality cooker and slate flooring Formal lounge and family room with wood fires framing the covered alfresco Smartly situated bedrooms including private main bedroom with ensuite and walk-in robe ●

· · · · ·

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 3 Wards Road, MONBULK Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 garage Price: $1,365,000-$1,495,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Brad Conder 0422 639 115, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE, 9754 6888 26 MAIL

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Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

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Real Estate you can trust!

We ’ r e h e r e t o h e l p FOR SALE

$750,000 - $810,000

9 Melaleuca Drive, UPWEY

NEATLY PRESENTED AND NESTLED NEAR PARKLAND

4A 1B 2C

Neatly presented and nestled on a highly useable 718sqm (approx.) block backing onto Upwey South Recreation Reserve predestines this home to be a premier investment. Suited to buyers starting out, scaling down, or seeking a smart acquisition, this impressive property offers something for everyone.

Sam Adamson

Daniel Steen

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

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

FOR SALE

12-14 Rutherford Road, TECOMA RENOVATE OR REBUILD IN THE HEART OF TECOMA!

$700,000 - $760,000 4A 2B

As one of the original homesteads in the area, this 1940’s Old Dame still boasts plenty of delightful features and is ready for her next owners to either renovate or rebuild (STCA).

Sitting on a beautiful, near flat 982m2 approx block with a gigantic Oak proudly positioned to one side, the location alone of this property will impress on many levels. Within meters of the Tecoma Village, primary schools and local high school, bus services and only a very short walk to Tecoma train station and local sporting facilities.

FOR SALE

$300,000

11/15 Anderson Street, MONBULK SYLVAN GLADES RETIREMENT VILLAGE – UNIT 11

2A 1B 1C

A simply beautiful, light filled unit boasting two oversized bedrooms, a lovely main bathroom/ensuite plus two toilets. With an open plan design, the living room is spacious while connecting to the updated kitchen. An undercover, timber decking is a wonderful extra and allows you to sit and enjoy the view across the fully fenced rear yard and beyond.

Sharyn Chandler M 0439 882 442 | E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

Sharyn Chandler

Glenn Chandler

M 0439 882 442 | E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

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

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

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Alan 5968 5191 Mob 0418 176 159 FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS.

Richard - 0419 502 949 Simon - 0417 399 750

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MAIL 29

SPORT

Best-on-ground Joshua Tilley dishes off a handball.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

Gembrook-Cockatoo’s Michael Firrito takes a strong mark.

Picture: SOPHIE MASTAING

Brookers secure 22 flag

By Callum Ludwig The Division One Senior Football Grand Final marked the final match of the 2022 AFL Outer East season, with the two undeniably top teams out there with their hearts set on taking home the flag.

Gembrook-Cockatoo’s Reserves side had already beaten Berwick Springs in their own Grand Final, 9.2, 56 to 9.9, 63.

Controversy clouded the game after star Seville forward Rob Petracca’s suspension was upheld on Tuesday night, ruling him out of the game on Friday 23 September.

Petracca got off the original charge he was facing at the tribunal, but footage was put forward by representatives from GembrookCockatoo showcasing Petracca striking a player during Seville’s semi-final win over them and he was suspended for two matches as a result. Sonny Saniga replaced him in the side.

Gembrook-Cockatoo got on top in the first, kicking 3 goals to Seville’s 1 to take a 12-point lead into the first quarter.

Early in the second quarter, Seville’s Dylan Broadway took a nice mark over the top of his opponent and goaled, but the Brookers immediately responded with three quick goals to restore and extend their lead. Seville’s Michael Condello kicked two before the end of the quarter to bring the Blues back in touch.

Gembrool-Cockatoo captain Colin Bastow went down with a serious-looking knee injury after a ruck contest early in the third quarter and perhaps his side were shaken by watching their skipper go down, missing a couple of opportunities early in the third. However, they still headed into the final change with a 19-point lead.

Gembrook-Cockatoo seemingly put the game beyond doubt early in the third, kicking the first before league-leading goalkicker Myles Wareham got over the back and former North Melbourne star Michael Firrito’s stellar snap made it an almost unassailable 36-point lead.

A quick left foot snap from a stoppage from the league best and fairest winning Blue Jake Strachan and a set shot from defender-comeforward Jack Nolan gave Seville a glimpse of hope but the Brookers hung on for a 10.12, 72 to 14.11, 95 win.

Gembrook-Cockatoo claimed their first premiership since 2016 and chants of ‘Gembrooooook!’ echoed around the ground and in the rooms for long after the game.

Seville Coach Chris Murphy thanked everyone for coming out to support the two sides and congratulated Gembrook-Cockatoo on the win.

“It was a very good game, and I’m sure they will enjoy the night. To our boys, we will stay strong and be back strong next year,” he said.

Gembrook-Cockatoo’s Joshua Tilley was awarded the best on ground honours and said he did not know what to say.

“We’ve been striving for this day all year, and I f***ing love you blokes,” he said.

Gembrook-Cockatoo Coach Bradley Coller said they know the sides have developed a ri30 MAIL

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Gembrook-Cockatoo players lift the premiership cup aloft.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

Seville ruckman Deng Nai takes flight in a ruck contest.

Picture: SOPHIE MASTAING

Gembrook-Cockatoo Captain Colin Bastow is stretchered off.

valry over the last few years and it was always going to be a tough game when they play each other.

“For us today, it just worked. For the boys to have been through what we have over the last three or four years in not having a home, but with the culture we have built and the two

cups we won today, it’s gonna be a good party!”

Seville’s top performers were Ryan Farrow, Michael Condello, Jake Strachan, Jye Sciortino, Joshua Weightman and Dylan Broadway with the goals coming from Condello with 4 and Broadway, Weightman, Strachan, Jack Nolan, Jye Sciortino and James Cecere with 1 apiece.

Picture: SOPHIE MASTAING

Joining Tilley among Gembrook-Cockatoo’s best were Aaron Firrito, Brayden Weller, Michael Firrito, Caleb Crestani and Dante South with Michael Firrito bagging 4 goals, Mett Templeton and Myles Wareham 3 and South, Matt Frazetto, Colin Bastow and Aaron Firrito all kicking 1. mailcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Emerald’s Oscar Miles reaching high in the team’s efforts to secure their grand final win.

Captain Brodie Walker (left) and coach Jake Pedder (right) with the Premiership Cup.

Best on ground Luka Pukitis battling for a ground ball.

Memorable grand final

By Tyler Wright Emerald Football Club’s U19s Premier Division team delivered the club’s first grand final victory in seven years on Sunday 18 September, dominating Upwey Tecoma from the first quarter in a five goal win.

Emerald entered the match after a previous five goal loss to Upwey Tecoma in Round 18, facing the chance of a loss to a team which had beaten the Bombers in every stand-off throughout the season.

Emerald U19s coach Jake Pedder said his team was at an advantage after being forced to play in elimination finals in the weeks prior to the grand final.

“Before the game, [the players] weren’t nervous, they were just excited to play, and I think it did help us being underdogs on the day,” Pedder said.

After coming out firing in the first quarter at Gembrook Recreation Reserve, Emerald managed to get a three goal lead at quarter time, “rattling” the Upwey Tecoma side according to Pedder.

A mixture Ben Cramer’s three important goals, best on ground Luka Pukitis’ forward work, 17 year-old Noah Van Haren performing as a top midfielder all day, and Captain Brodie Walker’s leadership skills, Emerald Emerald secured a 55 to 25 point win against Upwey Tecoma at the final siren.

It was a sweet reward after a tumultuous season.

“We’d go for weeks where we had only 14 or so players available to play, with no bench,” Pedder said.

“Other weeks, we’d have 21 fit and healthy players, but there were some injuries and some 19s got selected for the B team, so we were struggling throughout the year and we couldn’t get the boys to training.

But we persevered throughout the year; throughout the cold parts and the low numbers, and that made us a better team I reckon - it made us bond together better.”

The comradery between players was clear in club rooms post-match, with a loud rendition of the Bombers club song ringing in the years of everyone nearby.

“I know I always had the belief in them that they could win [and] they were talented enough to win the grand final, but I don’t know if they believed it,” Pedder said.

“A lot of those players don’t know how talented - or potentially talented - a lot of them are, so now with this win, it’s a massive achievement; I hope they realise how big it is.”

Now with the first senior flag the Emerald Football Club has won under their belt, Pedder hopes the confidence in the group will build.

“It just shows the potential of those boys coming up, hopefully they stay together through to the Senior Club,” he said.

Ninja Nation and Moi Clinic collaborate for inclusivity

By Parker McKenzie Being a ninja is for everyone, according to SG Lai and Luke Ha from Ninja Nation in Ferntree Gully.

That’s why they’ve teamed up with NDIS provider Moi Clinic to provide a program for children aged eight to 13.

Mr Lai said the idea started through a mutual connection with the specialised mental health practice, with the first session launching last week.

“Every Thursday from 2.30pm to 3.30pm and then from 3.30pm to 4.30pm are the slots we have booked for the Moi Clinic,” he said.

“They will organise all the arrangements for the children and then we will then conduct the classes.”

The classes are run by both a clinician from the clinic and a Ninja Nation instructor, incorporating physical development exercises and aspects of mental health and social skills.

Ninja Nation coach Luke Ha, who has competed in Australian Ninja Warrior, said the course has been created by collaborating with experts in different areas of expertise.

“The coach we have on with the Moi Clinic comes from a background of ADHD himself, so he’s sensitive to what the kid’s needs are,” he said.

“We consider what is the safety things that mailcommunity.com.au

they need first and foremost? How do we first teach them to be comfortable with their bodies around these obstacles, how to jump off an obstacle, how to land safely, how to prepare their legs and get their strength up.”

Mr Ha has previously worked as a professional stuntman and is a qualified rigger, having built the training course at Ninja Nation himself and even using parts from previous sets from the Ninja Warrior TV show.

He said the main benefit to the children taking part in the Moi Clinic program is helping them build confidence.

“They’re in a safe environment where they can be aided by our coaches and the helpers.

It gives them an experience that’s pretty out of this world,” he said.

“When people come in here, I tell them you’re actually standing on ninja holy ground because it’s been used in season two.”

Mr Lai said the Ninja Nation is embarking on a new journey with new classes for kids and adults of all abilities and ages.

“We like to encourage people with disabilities to have a go,” he said.

“The other day we had a child with cerebral palsy and her teacher asked if she could come, so we set up a different course because she struggled to use two hands.”

You can book by contacting Moi Clinic on 03 8799 2611 or visit their website www. moiclinic.com for further details.

SG Lai and Luke Ha from Ninja Nation in Ferntree Gully.

Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE

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