Mail - Ferntree Gully Star Mail - 11th October 2022

Ferntree Gully Belgrave

Funding pledge for Boronia Train Station

Billion dollar package for phone towers

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Tuesday, 11 October, 2022

Mail History exhibit receives state award

Your preview into the Wandin Silvan Field Days

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Steps now open

By Parker McKenzie

Macclesfield local Bill said he’s come down to walk the track several times since it opened two days ago.

Nick and Sian, who walked the track together, said they did so by chance.

The 1000 Steps is now reopened to the public.

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

through $76 million allocated for storm recovery across the state.

Minister for Energy, The Environment and Climate Action Lily D’Ambrosio said the 1000 Steps is an important and popular destination

Veterans of the Kokoda campaign adopted the park as a memorial site in 1998, with fourteen plaques dedicated to the Australian Military Forces who served in Papua New Guinea being erected along the walk.

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within Victoria, Australia and internationally.

“This funding has given our well-loved 1,000 Steps a new lease on life, so all visitors can enjoy them for generations to come.” she said.

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With the 1000 Steps finally reopened to the public on Tuesday 4 October, people were out to enjoy the challenging 1.4km walk and the beautiful natural environment surrounding it.

The 1000 Steps was closed for 16 months after the June 2021 storm weather event, which caused damage to the concrete steps and hand railing up the steep hike.

Macclesfield local Bill said he’s come down to walk the track several times since it opened two days ago.

“I’ve been doing the lyrebird track for the last couple of weeks,” he said.

“Being in my 60s, it’s important I try to stay fit. I’ve been doing the 1000 Steps on and off for the last 10 years.”

Ali, who travelled from the northern suburbs to visit the tourist destination, said he loves to see the wildlife like birds in the area.

“I’m a bird lover. I got within 200 metres of the top and turned back, that was enough fitness for me,” he laughed.

Nick and Sian, who walked the track together, said they did so by chance.

“We didn’t even realise it was open, we just turned up,” Nick said.

“It was just luck,” Sian added.

The bushwalk was first created in the early 1900s when tree fern trucks were laid across the wetter areas of the track, which were replaced by wooden palings before permanent concrete steps were installed in 1950.

“We’ve made sure our beloved rainforest walk, 1,000 Steps, re-opens but also ensure a safe experience for our local community and visitors.” Monbulk MP James Merlino said.

The state government funded the repairs to the damaged concrete steps and hand railing

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NEWS

Wet days bring fire risks

By Tyler Wright Yarra Valley residents are being urged to prepare for bushfire season and the risk of flooding this spring and into summer, as VICSES, Forest Fire Management (FFM) Victoria, CFA and Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) and Emergency Management Victoria representatives came together for an operational briefing on Thursday 6 October.

District 13 Assistant Chief Fire Officer David Rankin said with the increase of rainfall expectations heading into summer, and the third La Niña event in as many years, the CFA is expecting prolific grass growth across the state causing “some potential for significant fires during the season”.

“As we know; grass fires, when they are burning, can certainly move a lot faster than we can run,” Mr Rankin said.

“For those of you who come across a grass fire during the summer, make sure that you pick a safe location to be able to weather out that fire, you don’t have have to be in a remote or rural area - and try not to outrun it.

“To be prepared, you need to have your fire plan ready in place, you need to know what your family members are going to do, you need to leave early, and listen to all the advice that’s provided by the agencies, and hopefully it will be a safe fire season for us all.”

Forest Fire Management’s Deputy Chief Fire Officer in the Port Phillip region, Tamara Beckett, said Forest Fire Management will be working to remove a large proportion of fallen debris across the from the 2021 storm events in the Yarra Ranges in the lead up to summer.

The clean up will take place across three or four sites in the Dandenong Ranges, primary in Silvan, with planned burns having to be postponed due to wet weather.

“Many of those burns are planned, they’re prepared, they’re ready to go whenever the conditions are right. The reality is when it is

District 13 Assistant Chief Fire Officer David Rankin, Emergency Management Commissioner from Emergency Management Victoria, Andrew Crisp, Fire Rescue Victoria Assistant Chief Fire Officer Mark Swiney and Forest Fire Management Victoria’s Tamara Beckett, Deputy Chief Fire Officer Port Phillip Region, briefing the media on Thursday 6 October.

Picture: TYLER WRIGHT very wet, it does narrow the amount of time that we have for burning, so it becomes even more important that we take advantage of the opportunity, whenever that may be.” Ms Beckett said.

“The messages for community members are the same - whether it’s preparing for fire or for flood, or for storms, or whatever other emergency - whether even if it’s an energy emergency; to prepare for what you’re going to do, think about it, plan for it.

“The agencies will be there, we will be responding as best we can, but we need to prioritise those that are most vulnerable...any body who can look after themselves - that really helps us out and allows us to prioritise who we

need to support the most.”

Emergency Management Commissioner, Andrew Crisp, said at the media briefing there were currently 26 advice messages across the state; from the Murray River down to the coast.

“It’s not just about where you live - If you intend travelling and enjoy those holidays; get out enjoy this incredible state, but know where the emergency broadcaster is where you travel,” Mr Crisp said.

“Heed those warnings that are coming out, and leave.”

Mr Crisp said preparing at home is important, as seen with the significant storm event in June 2021.

“Honestly, at times there could be situa-

tions where we will not have enough emergency resources to support everyone that needs our help; we need to focus on on the more vulnerable.”

Mr Crisp said briefings with other agencies are “critical” in terms of preparedness.

“These ritual preparedness prepare sessions are a critical opportunity to get together face to face after Covid, but to listen to subject matter experts in relation to the specific assets themselves, and what we’re doing around relief and recovery into the future,” he said.

To learn more about incidents and warnings near you, and know how to best prepare in different events, visit the VicEmergency website.

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IN BRIEF

Two hurt in gas fire

By Parker McKenzie

The aftermath of the fire that started when a gas cylinder exploded.

Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE

Road users urged to look out for others Victorian drivers and motorcyclists are being urged to look out for each other and share the roads safely, with the number of motorbikes on the roads expected to increase as the weather warms up.

Marking the inaugural Motorcyclist Awareness Month, spearheaded by Victoria’s Motorcycling Community Engagement Panel (MCEP), Minister for Roads and Road Safety Ben Carroll said the initiative had been developed in collaboration with the Transport Accident Commission (TAC), Department of Transport and Victoria Police.

“Whether we are on two wheels or four, whether it’s our daily commute or a road trip, we all need to look out for each other every time we use the road,“ Mr Carroll said.

The month aims to remind motorists that road safety is a shared responsibility and that everyone has a role to play in keeping the roads safe.

Traditionally, motorbike rider travel increases during the warmer and daylight savings months, with more recreational riders on the roads. The increase in rider numbers and distances travelled brings a greater risk of crashes involving motorbikes.

It is critical that drivers are always on the lookout for people on motorbikes, while riders can improve their safety ensuring they are visible through safe road positioning and wearing the appropriate protective gear on every ride.

TAC Head of Road Safety Samantha Cockfield said motorcyclists are more vulnerable in a crash due to lacking the same protection as other motor vehicles.

“More riders should not inevitably result in more crashes and if we all look out for one another and be patient, we’ll go a long way toward reducing road trauma,“ Ms Cockfield said.

Over half of the 42 motorcyclist fatalities

Star Mail would like to retract a statement which was written in a story on page 3 last week regarding the candidate Q&A. It was written that ’The Railway Dog recently had to close due to a lack of staff’ however, we would like to acknowledge that the business was only closed for one afternoon and there has been no further closures.

The Railway Dog continues to operate as normal and is open for trade Tuesdays - Sundays and you can find more information on their website www.therailwaydog.com.au Dining and entertainment program closes The Victorian government’s Dining and Entertainment Program - Eat. Play. Cash Back, has wrapped up after less than three weeks since it began on Monday 19 September as Victorians meet the threshold of $2.5 million in claims.

Consumers have been able to claim 25 per cent cash back on entertainment and dining purchases of $40 or more through the program, which closed on Monday 3 October.

More than 18,300 claims were made in the Yarra Ranges through the program, with consumer spending in the area on dining and entertainment experiences worth more than $2.39 million.

People claimed back more than $513,900 cash back from purchases in the Yarra Ranges.

Mental injuries surge in Victorian workplaces WorkSafe Executive Director Health and Safety Narelle Beer urged employers to mark World Mental Health Day by making sure they have policies, processes and training in place to address risks such as bullying, aggression, trauma, fatigue, stress and high job demands.

Of the 28,682 claims received by WorkSafe in the 2021-22 financial year, 4340 were for mental injury.

While claims for work-related mental injuries now make up 15.1 per cent of all new claims, up from 13.1 per cent the previous year, they are on track to grow to a third of all WorkSafe claims by the end of the decade.

Throughout October, WorkSafe will use social media to remind employers of the need to address psychological health hazards at work.

Pandemic declaration ending

An awareness campaign has launched urging road users to look out for one another. on Victorian roads this year have occurred in collisions with other vehicles, reinforcing the importance of sharing the roads.

Throughout October, Victorians will see and hear about Motorcyclist Awareness Month through radio, outdoor signage, and events at a number of local markets and at the Australian Moto GP at Phillip Island.

Motorcycling Community Engagement Panel Member Brian Rix said now’s the time to start the conversation.

“Motorcyclist Awareness Month is an opportunity for all of us in the riding community to have a conversation with other road users about how we can share the road and

do a better job of keeping everyone safe,“ Mr Rix said.

Already this year, the TAC has launched two separate campaigns promoting motorcyclist safety and the importance of riders wearing protective clothing each time they get on their bike.

The Labor Government continues to invest in programs, campaigns and infrastructure aimed at improving motorcycle safety in the short and long term, including the MotoCAP motorcycle protective clothing star rating system.

Visit the Motorcyclist Awareness Month Facebook page for more information.

Decisions agreed to by all states and territories at National Cabinet will see Victoria’s pandemic declaration end from 11.59pm on Wednesday 12 October.

Victorians will no longer be required to isolate after testing positive for COVID-19, with isolation for positive cases now strongly recommended.

Requirements for close contacts like continually testing negative on a rapid antigen test will become strong recommendations – joining the strong recommendation to wear a mask indoors, which will remain in place.

Targeted financial support will continue for eligible healthcare workers, including in Aboriginal, hospital, aged care and disability care work, including those providing in-home care.

This financial support will continue supporting these workers to isolate if they test positive for COVID-19, protecting their patients.

The Department of Health will put in place Secretary Directions to ensure there is no disruption to vaccination requirements in health service settings – keeping the most vulnerable Victorians safe and protected.

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Two men have been hospitalised after a fire caused by an exploding gas cylinder in Upwey on Tuesday 4 October.

It is believed the fire started when a gas cylinder being installed into a 1980s Commodore exploded underneath the house’s carport, causing the carport to catch fire.

In an effort to stop the fire from spreading to the house, the two men were injured and were treated for serious burns at the scene by paramedics who responded to the incident around 1.40pm.

A relative of the two men told Channel 10 News their clothes were set alight after attempting to put out the fire.

A 72-year-old man was airlifted to The Alfred hospital with critical injuries, while a 32-year-old man was transported to hospital with serious injuries.

Story retraction

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Rail pledge

By Parker McKenzie The Victorian Labor Party has made an election commitment of $60 million to upgrade to Boronia Station by 2026 if re-elected at the November state election, making it more accessible for locals.

Public Transport Minister Ben Carroll and Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor announced the funding promise — contingent on the Labor Party returning to government for a third term — at the station on Monday 10 October.

Mr Carroll said he expects the upgrade to begin in 2024 after $500,000 was already been allocated for planning works.

“The station was last redeveloped in 1998 and while it’s lasted the community for 25 years, there is a very significant trench there where the community needs to get downstairs to get on the train,” he said.

“I know it has been well endorsed by the local community, the local traders, and the school students and on the local council as well.”

The upgrade will improve disability access to the station, build new shelters, create an open space by covering one of the rail trenches with decking, upgrade the façade and platforms, and improve lighting and CCTV in the area.

Mr Taylor said he was proud to be able to announce a major overhaul of the station.

“A deck over the trench on the southern part of the station will unlock lots of open space, it will bring communities together and it will create and activate the heart and centre of Boronia,” he said.

“20 projects now are either delivered, underway or have been delivered to revitalize the heart centre of Boronia, to make it an even better place to live and work.”

Mr Carroll said he expects to be back in Boronia in 2026 to unveil the new station.

“We’re very confident of the work we’ve done through the planning process,” he said.

“We need that easy access for pedestrians

Roads Minister Ben Carroll and Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor announced the election promise at Boronia Station on Monday 10 October.

Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE and people with disabilities. At the moment, you literally have what you can say is like a scar through Boronia Station here with it being underground.”

Ferntree Gully MP Nick Wakeling — who is running against Mr Jackson in the seat of Bayswater as the Liberal candidate after his electorate was abolished during redistricting — said the Labor Party has neglected the needs of Knox residents when it comes to public transport.

“With cost of living pressures impacting on Knox residents, the Liberal Party is focused on directly improving the ability of Knox residents to access better public transport services,” he said.

“That’s why the Liberal Party has committed to both the long-awaited study into bringing the tram to Knox as well as reducing the cost of all-day public transport to $2 for all residents and $1 for concession card holders.”

Over the weekend, the Liberal Party announced the reduction of all Myki fares in zone 1 and 2 from $9.20 to $2 and $1 for concession holders if elected, promising to maintain the fares for at least four years. The Parliamentary Budget Office costed the election promise just under $1.3 billion over four years.

Have your say Help shape the Burwood Highway – McMahons Road Intersection Upgrade

We’re upgrading the intersection of Burwood Highway, McMahons Road and Clyde Street in Ferntree Gully to improve safety and boost capacity.

We’re seeking feedback to help inform our planning and the development of the intersection design.

To have your say online visit roadprojects.vic.gov.au/ burwood-mcmahons-upgrade

by Sunday 23 October 2022.

We want to hear from you to better understand how you currently use the intersection and your thoughts on what we should consider in our planning.

For more information or to request that a hard copy survey be mailed to you, please contact us on 1800 105 105 or email contact@roadprojects.vic.gov.au

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Water runoff has been flowing into Cindy Taylor’ property. 302010 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

‘An absolute nightmare’: Wetter than normal years

By Tyler Wright Yarra Ranges Council has confirmed the municipality has experienced wetter than normal conditions for the past two years, causing further issues for property owners and council assets.

Stormwater runoff has been being pushed into Upwey resident Cindy Taylor’s front yard, and flooding underneath her house.

Ms Taylor said the large amount of rain recently has washed the gravel from underneath the road onto her property and lifted the road by around two inches.

“We’ve just done huge amounts of landscaping out the back, we’ve got $2,000 worth of topsoil that’s getting washed away,” Ms Taylor said.

“It’s just annoying. Very annoying.”

Alongside damage to landscaping, Cindy said mold has started appearing on a windowsill in the house, causing the house to smell “constantly”.

“There should not be mold on a window.

So I’m worried about that, but I’m also worried about the water - what damage that is doing to under the house,” Ms Taylor said.

“Even though we’ve got concrete stumps, we’ve still got an awful lot of timber in the house; what it’s doing the constant moisture to the timber under the house, the fact that we’ve just done huge amounts of landscaping, and whether that’s all going to be compromised.

One of our retaining walls out the front - that’s all got black mold all over the front of it now. We had to actually replace a retaining wall along the side of the house... which was only sort of six or seven years old, which is not right either.”

In a statement to the Star Mail, Yarra Ranges Council’s Director of Environment and Infrastructure Bill Millard said an initial inspection of the council road on which Ms Taylor lives in October 2021, found that the council’s drains were “unobstructed,” and the road had not been affected at that time.

According to Mr Millar, this was seconded in another inspection in early 2022.

“Recently, Council received another request in August to investigate the issue of water runoff and drainage at this location on Acacia Avenue,” he said.

“Since receiving this request, Council Officers have met with the residents and inspected the location to assess the impact from the recent, high rainfall in the area and contractors have already been engaged to use CCTV cameras to investigate whether the stormwater pipes under the road have been affected.

Following the CCTV footage feedback, Council will work with the residents to investigate the issue of water run-off and drainage at this site.”

Ms Taylor said the water runs down the

Water comes up under the road and has seemed to have lifted the bitumen. 302010

Mould has appeard on a window inside Ms Taylor’s house. 302010 drain along the opposite side of the road to a certain degree, but the road then kicks the water straight over to her property.

She said the rainfall expected in coming days, and the lack of council action since last October, has created the “perfect storm.”

“It’s just an absolute nightmare,” she said.

In a Facebook post published on Friday 7 October, Yarra Ranges Council said wet weather is also contributing to more potholes in the area, encouraging residents to report potholes they come across.

“Our crews are buckling down to resolve an extra 20 [per cent] increase in road maintenance requests,” the Facebook post read.

“So if you see a pothole - please report it. We investigate every report made for the roads we manage and if repairs are required we will: Repair within 20 days on sealed roads Repair within 10 days on unsealed roads” To report a pothole online, visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/pothole or call 1300 368 333.

For potholes on roads managed by VicRoads, report to VicRoads at https://www. vicroads.vic.gov.au/traff.../report-a-roadissue

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Major boost to blackspots

By Parker McKenzie The Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley have received a huge boost to telecommunications infrastructure through Connecting Victoria, with more than 20 new mobile towers announced throughout the hills.

The $255 million project will see two mobile towers built in each of Cockatoo, Selby, Tremont and Mount Dandenong and one mobile tower in each of Avonsleigh, Clematis, Menzies Creek, Belgrave South, Belgrave, Tecoma, Upwey, Ferntree Gully, Boronia, Kalorama, Olinda and Monbulk. Dr Peter Brennan, who has advocated for telecommunications resilience in the hills and previously worked with Connecting Victoria to identify mobile black spots, said the announced mobile towers would help alleviate issues plaguing the area.

“It’s a triad of approaches, there are three things that need to be done and are in a sense connected necessities: our telecommunications, internet/NBN and the stability of the electricity supply,” he said.

“This is a big step forward for the telecommunications coverage; it may not be 100 per cent coverage but let’s hope it will get a lot better.”

Loss of power to mobile base stations and pre-existing mobile black spots were highlighted as two key vulnerabilities during the 2019-2020 bushfires by an independent review of telecommunications infrastructure resilience by the Inspector General for Emergency Management, while the June 2021 storm weather event created the largest power outage in Victorian history, with 3000 people in the Dandenong Ranges losing power for three weeks according to a report by Emergency Management Victoria.

Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford said the investment will help local businesses create the jobs and industries of the future.

“This massive program will make Victoria the best-connected state,” she said.

“Over two million households will have faster speeds for healthcare, school, work and staying in touch with loved ones.”

The Victorian government plans to build 309 new mobile towers, upgrade 492 existing towers to 5G, adapt 170 towers to be used by multiple telco providers and make 137 towers more resilient during natural disasters by 2026 by working with telecommunication companies Axicom, ENE.HUB, Optus, Telstra and TPG Telecom.

Dr Brennan said he was first approached by businesses in early 2021 about the internet and mobile issues in the Dandenong Ranges.

“Restaurants that can’t take bookings because people couldn’t get through, local pharmacists who couldn’t call out and couldn’t get people calling in, just shop owners who can’t process things because the card machines wouldn’t work without connectivity,” he said.

“If it saves one life, then I will count it as a success. We won’t know whether it’s saved one or 1000 lives for years.

It creates new business opportunities for the writers, the artists, the editors and all those people that work up in the hills who like that creative retreat side of working.”

Monbulk MP James Merlino said the investment will help more Monbulk businesses succeed and the local community thrive.

“Locals in Monbulk deserve to have reliable mobile coverage, which the Victorian Government is delivering. It helps connect residents, support businesses and attract tourists, allowing local economies to thrive,” he said.

“This will be a game-changer for many people in Monbulk, supporting the area’s growth by ensuring everyone can access mobile connectivity that is on par with what’s on offer in Melbourne’s CBD.” For more information, visit djpr.vic.gov.au/ connecting-victoria

The Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley have received a huge boost to telecommunications infrastructure through Connecting Victoria.

Picture: ON FILE

$3.8 mil reserve pledge

By Tyler Wright The Belgrave Recreation Reserve Committee is calling for upgrades to the reserve’s current pavillion and more space to meet the demand of an increase in club members.

Belgrave Recreation Reserve committee member, Treasurer of the Belgrave Football Netball Club and Secretary of the Belgrave Cricket Club Melissa Davey said the facility’s lack of suitable for members became evident when female participation in the club began to grow around three or four years ago.

Access to the men’s toilets would mean having to walk through the home change room; sometimes used by female members.

Ms Davey said it was also evident the facilities were not fit for more than three grades of football.

“Just having the two male and female toilets, we’ve had a couple of members that are transgender and non binary and we don’t even have the facilities to make it comfortable in that environment either,“ Ms Davey said.

“There’s only one umpires room; so we have a lot of female umpires come through and there’s just not another space for them to get changed.“ “We actually have the numbers and the desire to have a second women’s cricket team and a second women’s football team, but we’re just so restricted already that it’s gonna hinder our ability to continue to grow in the in the clubs.“ The Liberal party has pledged $3.8 million to the development of Belgrave Recreation Reserve if elected in the November state election.

The funds will go towards a new welcoming sports pavillion, new cricket nets, updated rooms for the Belgrave Men’s Shed, new and ongoing maintenance for sporting equipment and the completion of netball courts.

Shadow Minister for Sport, Cindy McLeish, said the new facilities would sup-

Maddy Weston, Cindy McLeish, Craig Poxon, Julian Schill, Sean Connolly, Melissa Davey and Bernie Weisgerber at Belgrave Recreation Reserve.

Picture: SUPPLIED port increased visitation to the reserve.

“Providing locals with this recreational infrastructure will boost overall health and well-being for the whole community,” Ms McLeish said.

“Locals have indicated that these investments are vital and only the Liberals and Nationals are committed to delivering them.”

Liberal Candidate for Monbulk, Gareth Ward, said the announcement integrated amenity upgrades, as well as important upgrades for emergency infrastructure.

“By providing a space for local CFA units to meet and train, this will prepare them for future emergencies,” Mr Ward said.

“The reserve itself is Belgrave’s main sporting asset, home to many local clubs and only the Liberals and Nationals will commit to its ongoing development.”

Ms Davey said the new facilities will provide a place for male and female participants alike.

“We’ve got the space for them and we know that they’re there, so it would be good to actually give all those people in the community the opportunity to actually play the sport and be in a community they want to be in,“ she said.

Labor candidate for Monbulk, Daniela De Martino, was contacted for comment.

This exhibition is funded and supported by the YarRa Ranges Council 1 Minak RD, Shelby | 9754 2039 | selby@selbyhouse.org.au 12568583-ET41-22

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Yarra Ranges Councillor David Eastham, Monbulk Tribe Inc. founder Belinda Grooby and her daughter, and Monbulk MP James Merlino.

The launch was attended by 30 members of the community.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Australia CEO Mark Watt attended to launch the program.

Pictures: PARKER MCKENZIE

Local mentors to arrive

By Parker McKenzie Big Brothers Big Sisters Australia launched its mentorship program in the hills on Thursday 6 October, as the organisation looks to build upon the recently launched Boronia program.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Australia CEO Mark Watt said he wanted to thank everyone in attendance for coming to support young people in the community.

“We’re talking about a family support program today that’s really needed and the beautiful thing about today is it’s coming up from

the ground,” he said.

“The amazing volunteers who really pushed and created this, backed up by all of you who have come today, really shows that it’s a community-led program.”

Around 30 people attended the launch event at the Monbulk Living and Learning Centre, including Monbulk MP James Merlino and Yarra Ranges Councillors Johanna Skelton, Andrew Fullagar and David Eastham.

Current mentor Tamara, alongside her mentee Lily, said being involved in the pro-

gram bought a lot of value to both Lily and herself personally.

“I’m so glad that I’ve been able to do this because not only have I been able to reach out to a young person, I’ve also been finding it to be quite mindful as well,” she said.

“It’s about an hour a week that we spend together, sometimes we go over which is okay, just depending on what you’re doing.”

Lily said she was introduced to the program through her school.

“There’s a lot of things that you don’t see behind the scenes and having someone there for you to talk to has been great,” she said.

The program partners young people aged seven to 17 with an adult for one-on-one, 12-month intensive mentorships designed to respond to the individual needs of young people.

Founder of Monbulk Youth Inc. Belinda Grooby said there has been a real change for young people recently with body image issues, alcoholism, depression and suicidal ideation on the rise.

“With young people facing all of these different things, what we need to do is embrace the fact that having mentors allows us to give children the tools they need to grow, develop and become really great adults and a part of the community,” she said.

“The people in this room are what is going to make the difference; they’re the ones that are going to change the lives of young people.”

Chairperson of the Steering Committee for BBBS mentoring in the Hills program Jeanette Pritchard said another mentorship she helped launch on Hamilton Island 20 years ago is not only still running, but thriving after expanding to 15 schools in the district.

“We have been contacted by a number of schools, they really do want this program,” she said.

“This will only work if the community gets behind it.”

In 2015 Mr Merlino, who at the time was

minister for education, launched the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program at five schools; Sherbrooke Community School, Upwey High School, Boronia K-12 College, Bayswater Secondary College and Mater Christi College.

The program ended in 2019, however, survey results of participants showed improved outcomes for those involved.

Mr Merlino said that while he was helping launch the event, the program was being funded by Yarra Ranges Council and community donations and not the state government.

“I know in my own experience — I’ve done a bit of reflection over the last little while since announcing my resignation — and there were some really key mentors for me the moment I got politically active in the early 1990s,” he said.

“It is a powerful thing. It provides self-esteem for kids that are particularly vulnerable and provides people with positive role models.

It connects young people with people outside of their family and outside of their immediate friends.”

Sherbrooke Community School Principal Sue Holmes said the previous iteration of the mentorship program in the hills was “one of the most successful programs we had in our school for the mental wellbeing” of students.

“Families are overwhelmed, we are seeing in a lot of single families the parents are struggling,” she said.

“More than ever there is a place for this wellbeing programs which we can bring into the schools.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters Australia is a part of the world’s largest volunteer-supported mentoring network, operating out of 14 countries, and is looking for mentors to partner with young people in the hills and people interested in joining the steering committee.

You can find out more at the BigBrothersBigSisters mentoring in the Hills Facebook page, by visiting bigbrothersbigsisters.org.au or by emailing jeanette.pritchard@bbbsau.org if you have a specific question.

Sherbrooke Community School Principal Sue Holmes said a previous iteration of the mentorship program in the hills was “one of the most successful programs we had in our school for the mental wellbeing” of students.

Yarra Ranges Councillor Joanna Skelton with BBBS the hills program steering committee member Jeanette Pritchard.

Right now, there are community services jobs available where you can make a difference, helping people who have a disability, families fleeing violence, and children and families who need care and support. Plus, there is a jobs guarantee for new graduates in priority areas.

Make a difference.

Visit jobsthatmatter.vic.gov.au

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12568502-KJ41-22

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1000 objections received

By Parker McKenzie Knox City Council expects to consider two planning permits for the contentious ‘Lake Knox’ development from Development Victoria by the end of the year, after receiving over 1,000 objections to the subdivision and construction of wetlands on the site.

Mayor Susan Laukens said the council can only judge a planning permit application according to the planning controls that apply to that land.

“There are very strict rules that apply to how we make planning decisions,” she said.

“If we don’t follow those rules our decision and any opportunity we have to influence a development application can be called into question and thrown out by VCAT or the Minister.”

The development of the site — which is located at the corner of Burwood Highway and Scoresby Road in Knoxfield — is controversial and has seen widespread community opposition because of several hatchings of the vulnerable blue-billed duck being found at the dam, with concerns that the proposed wetlands will not create favourable environmental outcomes.

The project includes subdividing the land 105 times to build townhouses up to three storeys in height, four large parks, a shared path network and wetlands. The dam, known locally as Lake Knox, recently underwent structural repairs, and will be removed if the development goes ahead.

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

“At the time Council made a submission to the rezoning process that called for the sensitive biodiversity on this site to be retained,

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

The site was formerly the Knoxfield Horticultural Research Facility, where the dam is believed to have been built in the late 1950s or 1960 to be used for crop irrigation.

With the upcoming state election on 26 November, the Star Mail asked Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor and Ferntree Gully MP Nick Wakeling — who are both candidates for Bayswater — in July where they stood on the proposed development.

Mr Wakeling said the issue was an example of the Labor Government not listening to the local community.

“It’d be easily solved if the government sat down with the local community and came up with a workable solution,” he said.

“Residents aren’t being obstructionists, they aren’t being malicious, they just want to be heard, be listened to and engaged.”

In March, Mr Wakeling called for an advisory group including local representation to determine the future of the site and to consider designating it as a sanctuary.

Mr Taylor said it was disappointing to see the politicisation of the matter after the plan to retain the man-made dam was discovered to be unworkable.

“Investigations found it was structurally unstable with leaks and cracks detected in the dam wall and at risk of collapse, meaning it would need to be completely drained to rectify this regardless of future use,” Mr Taylor said.

“At the end of the day this will create a nature reserve, a fit-for-purpose wetlands sanctuary which will allow the Blue-billed Duck and other wildlife not just to survive, but to thrive and flourish for years to come.”

The two planning permits submitted by Development Victoria saw over 1000 objections.

Picture: ON FILE

An artist’s render of the wetlands proposed at the corner of Burwood Highway and Scoresby Road in Knoxfield.

Picture: DEVELOPMENT VICTORIA

Knox advocacy projects

By Parker McKenzie Knox City Council has reiterated its advocacy goals ahead of the 2022 Victorian State Election, as it seeks further funding for kindergarten places, investment in renewing Boronia and the extension of the Route 75 tram into Upper Ferntree Gully.

Knox City Mayor Susan Laukens said in October 2021, the council adopted its state and federal advocacy positions.

“All levels of government play a role in ensuring our community has access to education, jobs, housing, public transport, services and facilities, while safeguarding our future through adapting to climate change and reducing emissions,” she said.

“As Mayor, I’ve been meeting with our local state and federal Members of Parliament and candidates to discuss issues of importance to the community we all represent.”

The advocacy goals include funding to provide extra kindergarten places, a new mental health service in Wantirna, the building of two social housing developments for women at risk of homelessness, building a new hockey facility and upgrading facilities at Lewis Park.

“Investment from all levels of government is needed for the Boronia Station and shopping centre renewal,” Mayor Laukens said.

“Council seeks funding for better public transport options in Melbourne’s east, including a trackless tram route between Caulfield Station and Rowville, and extension of the Route 75 tram from Vermont South to Upper Ferntree Gully Station and Bayswater Business Precinct.”

On Wednesday 6 July, Ferntree Gully MP Nick Wakeling — who will run against current MP Jackson Taylor in the Bayswater electorate — announced an election promise of $2 million for a feasability study into extending the route-75 tram.

“Traffic congestion and public transport accessibility are critical issues in our area

Knox City Council is asking for funding for an extension of the Route 75 tram from Vermont South to Upper Ferntree Gully Station and Bayswater Business Precinct.

Picture: ON FILE that have been overlooked by the Andrews Labor Government,” he said.

“Extending the tram line to Knox would mean cheaper, easier, better public transport for local residents.”

When asked by the Star Mail in July about his position on the 75-tram line extension, Mr Taylor said the current Labor State Government is always looking for ways to “improve transport connections in the community, whether it be trams, trains or buses, including extending the current 75-tram line to Knox.”

“It was Labor that extended the 75-tram line from Burwood East to Vermont South, the Liberals have never committed to delivering or delivered any extension to the 75tram and they still haven’t,” he said.

“The Liberals promised to provide rail to Rowville in their last term of Government but didn’t lay a single meter of track. If they don’t deliver projects they promised, there is no chance they will deliver projects they haven’t promised.”

The Liberal Party has also made a $600 million commitment for a 250-bed hospital in the Wantirna Health Precinct.

“Our community should know that we are speaking up, lobbying and advocating strongly for increased investment in Knox.”

Mayor Laukens said.

Next week, the Star Mail will ask the candidates for Bayswater their positions on Knox’s advocacy goals and whether they support each initiative.

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VICTORIAN HOMEBUYER FUND It could be the key to owning your own home sooner.

To make owning your own home more affordable, the Victorian Government has introduced the Homebuyer Fund.

If you have a 5% deposit, the Victorian Government will contribute up to 25% of the purchase price, in exchange for an equivalent share in the property. This can help you reduce your mortgage.

Find out if you’re eligible at vic.gov.au/homebuyer

Stamp duty and other costs are payable in addition to the deposit. Eligibility and lending criteria apply with selected banks and restrictions and obligations apply after purchase.

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne.

12571509-ET41-22

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NEWS

Wine grant uncertainty

By Tyler Wright Peak industry body for Yarra Valley wine, Wine Yarra Valley, is calling on the federal government to continue the Wine Tourism and Cellar Door grant program, as concerns arise over the future of the key funding injection for wineries in the area.

Previously used by 12 businesses in the Yarra Valley, the program introduced by the former Coalition government has run for the three years; providing 29 per cent of the notional wholesale selling price of their eligible domestic cellar door sales.

Businesses have been able to receive a reimbursement of up to $100,000 (GST exclusive).

The usual application dates are believed to sit between 1 July for businesses, with applications closing around 30 September.

However, there are concerns over the future of the program, as there has been no time frame confirmed for 2021/2022 applications, leaving businesses concerned for their profability, cash- flow, and ability to employ staff.

Wine Yarra Valley CEO Caroline Evans said 95 per cent of wineries in the Yarra Valley are family-owned and operated and a significant employer of the community, and the absence of this grant program could potentially have a negative flow on into the community.

“The other important thing to note is we are still not out of the impact on business that happened over the pandemic and that our region, which is where tourism is such a significant part of the sales mix, we were closed as we’re considered Metro Melbourne, the better part of two years,” Ms Evans said.

“It would be, another blow on to all of these family businesses, that, it would be a difficult thing for them to have to, experience on top of everything that’s been going on,” Ms Evans said.

The impact of the pandemic on businesses are ongoing, Ms Evans said, with staffing shortages impacting opening hours, and

Shadow Agriculture Minister David Littleproud and Casey MP Aaron Violi met with various winery managers to discuss the Wine Tourism and Cellar Door grant program.

Picture: TYLER WRIGHT hundreds of thousands of visitors to local wineries.

“I would really urge the government not to add to that pretty heavy load by either reducing or stopping the Wine Tourism and Cellar Door grants,” Ms Evans said.

Across the previous three rounds of the program, there have been 216 unique successful applicants.

With the funding total allocated funding for recipients capped at $10 million, wine busi-

nesses across Australia have only been receiving roughly 60 per cent of the funds they are entitled to due to over subscription.

Subsequently, Ms Evans is calling for the Wine Tourism and Cellar Door grant program to not only return under the new Federal Labor Government, but for the cap to be doubled to $20 million.

Liberal MP for Casey, Aaron Violi, said wineries have made investment decisions in the last financial year taking funding from the

grant program into consideration.

“When you’ve made assumptions based on that,,,you haven’t got that money or that cash lying around because you’re going to invest in your business, so it will have impacts on their day to day operations and their long term success,” Mr Violi said.

According to a federal government spokesperson, “all financial commitments made by the former government are being reviewed in the leadup to this year’s Budget”.

Community grants open for YR council funding

By Tyler Wright Community groups, not-for-profits and event organisers are now able to apply for funding of up to $40,000 a year through Yarra Ranges Council’s Partnership Program.

Applications for the program opened on Saturday 1 October, with the funding stream for successful applicant flowing from 2023 to 2027.

Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC), who was a successful applicant of the Partnership Program for 2018 to 2022, used the funding stream of $20,000 per year to provide legal advice on the ground in the Yarra Ranges and educating school children about sexting, cyberbullying and consent.

“We’ve probably done about 14 workshops across seven schools in the last year alone on those issues across Yarra Ranges; and this funding really drives that kind of work in schools,” ECLC CEO Michael Smith said.

Through the funding, and working alongside other community organisations, ECLC was able to respond to community need after the June 2021 storm event in the Yarra Ranges.

“There’s always issues around insurance... the impact by the power issues, and sometimes there’s issues with neighbours and fences and things like that, but also there’s issues like family violence that might be either as a result of the storms or kind of exacerbated by that too,” Mr Smith said.

ECLC also started their ‘Hidden Voices’ initiative this year, creating a space for sexual abuse survivors, family violence survivors and those impacted by mental health issues to tell their stories.

Mr Smith said ECLC will be applying for mailcommunity.com.au

the most recent Partnership Program, helping to continue work with young people in schools and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health organisations.

“We’ve actually had really smooth referral options between us, as well as doing community projects that really helped the community, so we’re looking forward to continue to do that,” Mr Smith said.

Yarra Ranges Council is encouraging community groups to apply for funding for projects that align with the council’s Health and Wellbeing and Creative Communities Strategies.

“Grant applications take significant amounts of time and effort – they also go through a rigorous assessment by Council staff and an independent panel, and there’s heavy competition for this funding,” Yarra Ranges Council Mayor, Councillor Jim Child said.

“We get incredible proposals through all of our grant streams and we can only fund a fraction of these.

“For the best chance of success, applications should demonstrate a strong alignment to Council’s strategies, meet the selection criteria, demonstrate a willingness to work collaboratively, and outline previous experience delivering Council funded initiatives. These are a must.”

Applications for the Partnership Grant round will close on Tuesday 15 November 2022, with successful applicants to be announced in 2023.

The first year’s funding will be delivered on 1 July 2023.

To learn more about the application process, call Yarra Ranges Council’s grants team, or email grants@yarraranges.vic.gov.au.

Eastern Community Centre’s ‘Hidden Voices’ initiatives was helped by Partnership Program funding from Yarra Ranges Council.

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NEWS

Cash boost for Cockatoo

By Tyler Wright Carers in the Cockatoo community will have access to additional support services through a $10,000 boost to Taskforce Community Agency from Australia Post’s 2022 Community Grants Program.

Taskforce Community Agency’s Carer Wellbeing: Restorative Activities for People Who Care project run at Cockatoo Community House will see a series of upcoming parent support sessions, mindfulness sessions, yoga and supported art programs.

The activities will be designed to promote carers’ mental health and mental wellbeing through access to informal support.

Cockatoo Community House coordinator Lisa Sawatzky said the organisation applied for funds after seeing a need for additional support for carers in the area.

“Some of the challenges have been around difficulty accessing therapeutic support, or accessing therapy based appointments during [Covid],” Ms Sawatzky said.

“Consequently, at times there’s significant waiting lists for those supports to be in place...

And the recognition that people with disabilities are particularly vulnerable around Covid... that created some additional isolation, because during that time, carers may have chosen to limit that social engagement around the safety and managing that potential exposure to Covid.

“Some of those carers and people with complex health needs haven’t completely been engaged with community, and so having some support around how that might happen is important.”

Guest speakers will also visit Cockatoo Community House to cover a range of areas, including awareness around government funding and entitlements, access to support services in the area and self care.

“Within our local community we have carers that might be parents of young children who have a disability, or have been diagnosed with perhaps some developmental delays...we have carers who are caring for an adult child with a disability, and we have carers that are caring for a partner, or they might be providing care for a parent, an elderly parent; so there’s lots of different types of carers,” Ms Sawatzky said.

Taskforce Community Agency will be holding support sessions for carers in the Cockatoo community through $10,000 from Australia Post’s 2022 Grants Program.

Picture: SUPPLIED “We want to connect with all of those people within our community who have a caring responsibility, and just providing a bit of additional support to those people.”

One of the other key outcomes, Ms Sawatzky said, is providing support that will help car-

ers achieve better wellbeing.

“For example, if a young mum’s dealing with a recent diagnosis of a developmental delay or a disability [with] their child, it was about a sense that - a feeling that - they were a bit isolated and perhaps their other friends had a

different journey, so having that opportunity to meet with others who have similar challenges and similar experiences was something that they articulated was important,” she said.

The series of parent support sessions will commence after a consultation process.

Year of closure expected for Kallista Community House

By Tyler Wright In late October 2021, Kallista Community House was rendered uninhabitable after a portion of the building’s ceiling collapsed, and is still yet to be reopened to the public.

Building repairs are now expected to be completed within 12 to 18 months, with Yarra Ranges Council confirming it is working through cost implications of the rebuild.

As part of the investigation, Yarra Ranges Council engaged an environmental hygienist to conduct several assessments due to the water damage, which identified elevated concentration levels of mould, both in the air and on the surfaces, finding the community house could not be occupied in its current state.

Public Officer Committee of Management at Kallista Community House, Kathy Cann, said the committee expected the building would be “repaired quickly and assumed that we would reopen for Term 1 2022”.

“Due to the closure, the Community House was forced to cancel all programs, relocate social inclusion groups to other locations and cancel the Kallista Market, which had been closed due to Covid, but was scheduled to recommence in November 2021 as the house facilities could not be used,” Ms Cann said.

Ms Cann, said the committee has received a “great deal of feedback” in relation to the cancellation of learning opportunities, playgroups, community activities and social inclusion groups which have come to a halt, and is awaiting a response from Yarra Ranges Council as to when the facility will be repaired.

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Yarra Ranges Council expects Kallista Community House to be repaired in 123 to 18 months time. 302034 Yarra Ranges Council have provided the Board and Management of Kallista Community House with potential relocation options for their consideration while repair work to the building is being planned and carried out, and anticipates services at Kallista Community House will resume when the house reopens.

‘We know the Kallista Community House is such an important community building and is the heart of the community,” Yarra Ranges Council’s Director of Communities Jane Price said.

“We wanted to ensure we comprehensively understood the damage, and therefore undertook an investigation to fully assess the extent and impact of the water damage.

“Unfortunately, this assessment identified some underlying historical problems related to water entering the building, high humidity in the building and mould.”

Ms Cann said the long term impacts of the buidling’s closure are yet to be felt.

Kallista Community House’s board of management vacated the premises on 19 August 2022.

302034 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

40th year celebration

By Parker McKenzie The Patch Primary School celebrated its 40th anniversary on Thursday 6 October, with students participating in shared learning through displays and performances throughout and in the leadup to the big day.

The school celebrated with a homage to all things 80s and The Patch, after students spent class time during the year exploring both the school’s history and the local Indigenous culture pre-settlement.

Assistant Principal Michelle Rayner said the celebration was on a day close to the original opening in 1982.

“It was really rich learning because there are lots of aspects of the school’s history that they weren’t aware of, we looked at old footage of things that the school had done and the way the land has changed over that time,” she said.

“The three classes of preps created a model of the school grounds with every aspect from wetlands and gardens to the oval in there, with every building with its Indigenous name.”

Ms Rayner said the celebration raised around $10,000 for the school, which was an “extraordinary result.”

“From 9am, we had an Acknowledgement of Country delivered by a proud Gunai/Kurnai woman Emmy Webbers, who’s a parent to that school and she did that with a group of kinder children,” Ms Rayner said.

“Then we had a performance by all our grade three kids that captured all aspects of different performances over the years we’ve done.”

After the performance, students spent the rest of the school day visiting each other’s classes, to see the work they’d each done throughout the term on the school’s history.

Children’s music performer Cath Russell also played for the school.

Ms Rayner said parts of the celebration were themed around the 1980s, while students also independently put up enterprise stalls to raise funds for the school.

“At the end of the day at 4pm, we resumed our celebrations with all our community on the basketball court, where we had a concert for two hours,” she said.

“We finished off with 80s aerobics for everyone on the court, dressed in 80s gear.”

Parents joined the students at a barbeque, closing the celebration of an important part of The Patch’s local community.

Ms Rayner said the school was grateful to be able to celebrate the milestone after a difficult few years.

“It’s just nice to take stock and reflect on the last 40 years and then start thinking about what the next move might be,” she said.

It’s just a timely kind of reminder of the way things transition and change and constantly improve.”

A model of the school was built by the three prep classes at The Patch Primary School.

Students independently put up enterprise stalls to raise funds for the school. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Primary School teacher nominated for excellence

By Parker McKenzie Ruby Russell, a grade five teacher from The Basin Primary School, has been nominated for a Victorian Education Excellence Award in Outstanding Primary Teaching.

Ms Russell said it was a privilege to be one of the three nominees.

“A lot of my nomination was focused around my work with student voice, leadership and wellbeing,” she said.

“As a teacher, it feels great to get the recognition and be celebrated” Her nomination for the award describes Ms Russell prioritising getting to know students’ backgrounds, interests and abilities when developing lessons, creating opportunities for students to contribute in the classroom and providing a supportive and exciting space for students to develop their voice and agency.

Ms Russell said it is crucial to give students the support they need.

“You have to give them that support, and focus on their well-being before you’re going to get any academics done,” she said.

“You need them to be feeling safe and comfortable before you can then get that engagement.”

The Victorian Education Excellence Awards recognize teachers, principals, business managers and educational support staff mailcommunity.com.au

who “improve school and support children and young people to develop their skills and learning outcomes they need to succeed in life.”

Ms Russell has been working at The Basin Primary School for two years, during a difficult time of upheaval for students and teachers with online learning becoming the norm for a lengthy period before students returned to the classroom.

She said students have faced challenges returning to full-time face-to-face learning at school in 2022 after spending 2020 and 2021 either learning online during lockdowns or spending periods of time in the classroom.

“They are settling back in after what can be a traumatic and life-changing experience,” she said.

“For some students, their challenge is that during remote learning, they had a choice of what they could do during the day, whether it was cooking, classroom work or something else. Having to follow a class routine can be difficult as they no longer have control over their day.”

The winner of the awards will be announced on 21 October during an award ceremony. 39 education workers across Victoria were nominated.

For more information, visit vic.gov.au/ victorian-education-excellence-awards

Ruby Russell was nominated for a Victorian Education Excellence Award in Outstanding Primary Teaching.

Picture: SUPPLIED Tuesday, 11 October, 2022

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NEWS

Exhibit gets state praise

By Mikayla van Loon Yarra Ranges Heritage Network was commended for its collaborative and travelling exhibition ‘Power and the People: 150 Years of Local Government’ at a Victorian history awards evening.

The Network, a consortium of 18 groups from across the shire, received the Archival Survival Award at the 2022 Victorian Museums and Galleries Awards night on Tuesday 4 October.

Accepting the award on behalf of the Network was chair Sue Thompson who said the recognition from the Victorian division of the Australian Museums and Galleries Association (AMaGA) was quite the honour.

“There was a real recognition that it’s a project that they can see being worthwhile and different,” she said.

“It was an innovative and different thing to what museum people are used to, most of them had an exhibition or a project that they put forward, that they developed.”

This project was designed to celebrate 150 years of local government in the Yarra Ranges area, telling stories of how the council and the people worked together to deliver outcomes for the region.

The judges said they enjoyed the positive perspective of how the community and government have been able to contribute to bettering the lives of residents in the Yarra Ranges.

“A great humble project that demonstrated innovation and creativity, showcased access and equity including diverse voices,” the judges said.

Ms Thompson said she accepted the award on behalf of all the contributing groups which included Friends and Relations of Gulf Station; Healesville and District Historical Society; History Group, Yarra Glen and District Living and Learning Centre History Group; Lilydale & District Historical Society; Monbulk Historical Society; Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead; Mooroolbark History Group; Mount Dandenong and District Historical Society; Mount Evelyn History Group; National Trust of Australia (Victoria) Dandenong Ranges Branch; Oonah Learning Centre; Healesville, Running Rabbits Military Museum; Save the Dandenongs League; Sherbrooke Foothills Historical Society; Southern Sherbrooke Historical Society; Upper Yarra Valley Historical Society; Yarra Ranges Regional Museum; and Yarra Valley Italian Cultural Group.

“The Yarra Ranges is one of the few municipalities that has that many groups and that doesn’t include RSL’s,” Ms Thompson said.

“Most municipalities have one or two histo-

Archival Survival Award sponsor Angela Henricksen presented the award to Yarra Ranges Heritage Network chair Sue Thompson at the AMaGA Victoria awards night on Tuesday 4 October.

Picture: SIMON PETER FOX PHOTOGRAPHY ry groups, they don’t have what we’ve got. Our history is richer because we’ve got this spread of roots and involvement of these different people in all these individual groups that collect for their area.”

This was the first exhibition the Yarra Ranges Heritage Network had produced together, something Ms Thompson said would not have been possible without funding from the council.

“It wouldn’t have happened without your Yarra Ranges Council and it certainly wouldn’t have happened without the Regional Museum.

And when I say Yarra Ranges Council, I mean the council staff and councillors who supported the funding for the project in the first place.”

Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said it was a fitting reward for all the hard work that local volunteer organisations do in capturing and preserving the history of its community.

“This is wonderful recognition for not only the exhibition but the dedication and passion that each of these local community groups have for the history of their communities,” Cr Child said.

“This is a testament to the power of collaboration between community and the council to produce great outcomes, which fittingly is the theme of the exhibition itself.”

The Archival Survival award came with a $1000 prize which Ms Thompson said will be divided between each group.

“So the group now has a $1,000 donation of archival material, which is expensive to buy. So we have to work out how we are going to split it up amongst all the groups, because everybody always needs archival materials,” she said.

Creative Industries minister Steve Dimopoulos said each of the projects recognised with an award or nomination were examples of “creativity and dedication” of the sector.

“Congratulations to all and thank you for the work you do to preserve and share our history for future generations,” he said.

“Our museums, galleries and the people behind them, help showcase what makes Victoria such a vibrant, diverse and creative state.”

AMaGA Victoria represents over 1000 museums, galleries and community collecting organisations, with Executive Director Dr Ashley Robertson congratulating volunteers and staff.

“Together, we celebrate their individual and collective achievements and offer encouragement for future initiatives. On behalf of AMaGA Victoria, congratulations to this year’s winners and nominees.”

Power and the People: 150 Years of Local Government will remain on display at the Yarra Ranges Council Civic Centre building until 23 February, before moving to Burrinja Cultural Centre on 27 February.

A plant lovers’ heaven blooms big at Belgrave Library

By Tyler Wright Belgrave Library is now home to an outdoor plant garden already home to indigenous plants and vegetables, extending the exisiting seed library which has been running inside the library for a few years.

The new ‘Plant Library’ will be officially open to the public on Wednesday 12 October at a seed, produce and plant swap in the reinvigorated library courtyard.

Belgrave Library customer service officer and host of monthly Belgrave botanical gardening events, Jasmine Molders, said attendees can bring along anything that grows well in their gardens and is acclimatised to conditions in the Hills.

“It might be something that’s a little bit different, that you don’t normally see at the nursery,” Jasmine said.

“It could be an edible or it could be an ornamental, it doesn’t really matter; It’s all just about getting growing.”

Locals can bring along potted up cuttings, packets of seeds or seedlings they have propagated, and have the opportunity to share growing tips, common struggles and success stories with other gardeners in the area.

“It’s definitely about generating conversations around gardening, but that’s just a launching point. It’s also about social con12 MAIL

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Tuesday, 11 October, 2022

nection. It’s about the conversations and the connections with people that emerge from having a common interest,” Jasmine said.

Jasmine said while there is always an interest in gardens in the Hills, being kept inside due to Covid has sparked an interest in learning and deepening skills around propagating and growing seedlings in their own gardens.

Mint and tomatoes also seem to be a popular choice in the Hills.

“If you’re talking about growing veggies, then it’s really time to get the warm season veggies in at the moment like the tomatoes; we’re selling some beans,” Jasmine said.

“I’d say things like zucchini, cucumbers [and] eggplant.”

Visitors can walk straight into Belgrave Library from 11am to 12pm to attend the launch of the new plant library, with no bookings required.

There are plans to have guest speakers visit Belgrave Library in the future, to talk about specific topics relating to gardening and plants.

Donations are welcome, and people can visit Belgrave Library during its opening hours of 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Wednesday and Friday, 9am to 8pm on Thursdays, and 10am to 1pm on Saturday.

Belgrave Library is closed on Sunday.

Belgrave Library customer services officer Jasmine Moulders in the library’s newly spruced up courtyard, which is now home to a new ‘plant library.’

Picture: SUPPLIED mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Rewarding carer career

By Tyler Wright Care and support industry professionals and job seekers visited Box Hill Institute’s Lilydale campus on Tuesday 4 October for a chance to answer questions on a career in the field.

Held by Workforce Australia’s Local Jobs Program, the care and support jobs expo hosted 19 exhibitors from the industry, and had over 50 job seekers register their attendance.

Employment Facilitator for the North East Melbourne Local Jobs Program, Ida Lloyd, said employers in the care and support sector are currently looking for an average of 30 staff to fill roles. “[The expo] was initiated through the federal government as a result of Covid, and all those displaced job seekers, and trying to match them into those sectors that are crying out for staff - and aged care is crying out for staff,” Ms Lloyd said.

“All types; across all home care, personal care, disability support, in their catering and laundry services...there’s quite a supply chain to aged care, and every part of it is feeling the strain of not enough staff.”

For care services located in the Yarra Ranges, Ms Lloyd said barriers for prospective employees are transport into the area and needing to fuel up a car to get to work.

Despite this, there are a growing number of facilities being built throughout the Yarra Ranges, Ms Lloyd said.

“I know that there’s a facility up in Montrose that needs that ‘magic number of 30,’ but about 30 people in their facility...[worker shortages have] had a huge impact, and you’ve got the issue of distance as well,” Ms Lloyd said.

“For a lot of the unemployed, that’s a barrier to employment.”

Heritage Aged Care staff head of group operations Kathy Warren and head of people and culture Claire Neeson, said nurses are in demand in their centres - one if which is located in Bayswater North. “[Nurses] are going to take the allowances to go back into the private sector, that’s not in aged care - so why would they come to us when they can have that in the private sector or go work in NDIS?,” Ms Warren said.

Shortages have led to staff exhaustion working double shifts, and staff across the organisation working in another home needing assistance, Ms Warren said.

But through the care and support jobs expo, the Heritage Care team was able able to build contacts with recruitment companies, Box Hill Institute and universities.

Ms Warren said the expo may help care services collaborate with other organisations and she expects the industry to pick up again within the next six to 12 months.

“Hopefully the government gives us more incentives for people to work in aged care... [for] personal carers to come back into the workforce,” she said.

Claire Neeson, head of people and culture at Heritage Care, and head of group operations Kathy Warren at the carer and support career expo at Box Hill Institute’s Lilydale campus on Tuesday 4 October.

Picture: TYLER WRIGHT

Employers and industry professionals attended the expo to answer questions from jobseekers interested in the industry.

Exploring the history of Ferntree Gully Cemetery

By Parker McKenzie Inside Ferntree Gully Cemetery, there are mysteries, cold cases and unexplored history waiting to be found.

“It isn’t just the famous people who make the history of an area,” Knox Historical Society’s Karin Orpin said.

“The everyday people make the area what it is today.”

It’s why the Knox Historical Society runs regular History and Mystery Cemetery tours, telling the stories and histories of the people who lay under the gravestones.

The Historical Society’s Trish Kirk — who runs the tours with Ms Orpin — said the events sell out quickly, with the tour on Friday 21 October selling out in just two days.

“We’ve been doing for it for quite a few years now and we get quite a large crowd,” she said.

“I have a very big interest in the people who are laid to rest there. I research them and Karen does the presentation.”

Future dates for the tours are first pubmailcommunity.com.au

Knox Historical Society runs regular History and Mystery Cemetery tours, telling the stories and histories of the people who lay under the gravestones.

Picture: ON FILE lished on the Ferntree Gully History Mystery tours Facebook page.

Ms Oprin said the cemetery tour is about

showcasing what an amazing asset to the community the cemetery is.

“The tour covers from 1873 right up to the

expansion of the cemetery in the 2000s,” she said.

“Not only is there the grave of Arthur Streeton, but there are also so many interesting and tragic stories.”

Arthur Streeton was a famous Australian landscape painter, who later in life spent his time painting the Dandenong Ranges and lived in Olinda.

Ms Kirk said the events are mostly promoted by word of mouth, with more in November and February expected.

“Some people think it’s a ghost tour, but it’s not,” she said.

“It’s really about history and mystery, with a fairly heavy emphasis on history.”

Knox Historical Society was started in 1965 and is based out of Ambleside Park in Ferntree Gully. It compiles and maintains historical records of the Knox district, displays artifacts and photographs, publishes books and newsletters and much more.

For more information, you can visit home. vicnet.net.au/~khsinc Tuesday, 11 October, 2022

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NEWS

Exploring our ecosystem

By Tyler Wright Have you ever asked yourself the question ‘why do animals matter?’

Well it’s a question Croydon-based ecologist and author Simon Mustoe has endeveaoured to answer in his new book ‘Wildlife in the Balance’.

The popular-science book draws on Mustoe’s years of experience as a conservationist, and extensive research, to tell the story of how wildlife conservation is about to become our ‘greatest and only chance to ensure a habitable earth’.

“We obviously we tend to get a mindset of saying animals are important when they become very uncommon,” Mustoe said.

“When you look at the actual sheer abundance of wildlife, you realise that the processes they drive in ecosystems are absolutely extraordinary on such a huge scale.

As human beings, we only seem to see the very tiny tip of that in our own daily lives, but obviously, access to the internet and modern information enables us to imagine these things on a much bigger scale.”

In fact, one of the biggest migrations on earth happens in our own garden every day, according to Mustoe.

“When following the sun, caterpillars walk from inside a hidden point in a vegetation out onto a leaf and start feeding; that annual migration daily of a few inches backwards and forwards; it’s one of the greatest migrations on earth,” Mustoe said.

“Scale that up, and you look at the effect of vegetation has on the planet, which unregulated by animals would actually spill lots of polluting waste into the oceans and the atmosphere.

These animals are doing an incredible job, they’re actually turning that into food, they’re turning it into soil, which regulates our moisture cycles and our climate and everything else.”

Wildlife conservation had been playing on Mustoe’s mind for a few years; but it was while working in Raja Ampat; located in the coral triangle in eastern Indonesia, he had an

Croydon-based author Simon Mustoe has release a new book on how important animals are to the ecosystem. “epiphany” moment.

“Interestingly, a short while after - one of the people on the trip I was leading asked ‘what’s the point of a turtle?” and I answered them by saying, ‘I can’t answer that question for you. I’m gonna have to go away and think about it.’”

So I did, and about a year later, I started drafting the book. And the rest is history.”

Living in Belgrave for 20 years before his move to Croydon, Mustoe knows what it’s like to have an abundance of species at his doorstep.

The Lyrebird - a species prevalent in the Dandenong Ranges - processes 350 tonnes of

soil each year, Mustoe said.

“What the book does is tell that story about how the impact occurs, and then hopefully opens people’s eyes when they go out looking at some of this nature,” Mustoe said.

And rather than just sort of seeing a bird and going ‘oh yeah, that’s a bird,’ but actually look at what it does, and think about in your mind, how much time that animal’s spending doing that, how many of them there are, and you certainly quickly realise that our entire landscape, our whole environment, everything we see, is shaped by wildlife.”

There are two key points Mustoe hopes the reader can take away from his book.

Picture: SUPPLIED

“The first thing key point is we’re an animal like any other,” he said.

“And the second point is that is that in order to survive, we have to surround ourselves by with a diversity of abundant wildlife.

“What I hope to achieve from the book is inspiring people with an untold narrative and new story, and a story about how wildlife conservation is actually one of the greatest hopes we have for rebuilding a comfortable world, and one that humans can can thrive in into the future.”

‘Wildlife in the Balance’ is available to purchase online from Tuesday 11 October, and will soon be available at all good book stores.

Jacinta Parsons talks ‘A Question of Age’ at Homestead

By Lynette Hayhurst Millers Homestead came alive with a full house of forty excited women and men who came to hear Jacinta Parsons speak about her new book A Question of Age. Jacinta is a radio broadcaster and writer who is currently hosting Afternoons, a three-hour magazine show on ABC Radio Melbourne. Her first book was ‘Unseen: The Secret World of Chronic Illness’ released in 2020. Jacinta herself is an inspiration as she herself has overcome the raw challenges of this chronic condition and lives a successful and meaningful life.

She is an ambassador of the Crohn’s and Colitis Association Australia and is also an active member of the arts and music community and is a board member for Melbourne-based disability theatre company Rollercoaster.

The audience was not disappointed as Jacinta developed an intimate bond with them as she shared her own experiences in facing the question of ageing from a woman’s perspective with all its challenges and opportunities for growth, change and understanding. On the back cover of her book it says, this work is “incendiary, raging and raw, but also compassionate, insightful and powerfully energizing; It is a book for every woman looking in the mirror thinking she is no longer recognising herself. It is a book for our times.” She gives thanks in the book to, “all the people who contributed to this book with their ideas, research, stories, hearts and lives.

I hope this is the beginning of a conversation that will honour you.”

Michelle Kemp presented penetrating and insightful questions and Jacinta responded by sharing her own experiences of ageing and the joy of the writing process. Jacinta’s research in the book demonstrated the pow14 MAIL

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Tuesday, 11 October, 2022

Jacinta Parsons spoke about her new book A Question of Age. Pictures: SUPPLIED erful reasons why women in this generation have strong grounds to feel the way they do about ageing. She covered the structure of the book which contained memoirs, research, anecdotes and personal experiences.

Jacinta also weaved into the fibre of the book the creative use of metaphors of the elements, fire, air, water and earth as well as the Ash Wednesday bushfires.

In Jacinta’s delightful and engaging style she departed from the script and walked around the room engaging the audience who shared their experiences of ageing and she answered all their questions with humility, a combination of deep insight and hilarious wit, the audience was often in stitches.

Michelle Kemp summed up the whole experience at the end of the book launch by saying, “Reading ‘A Question of Age’ feels like you’re having one of those gorgeous, long,

Jacinta Parsons at Millers Homestead to talk about her recently published book. deep conversations with a close, wise girlfriend, where you share experiences, solve the problems of the world and come away with a mission statement!”

She then made her way to the podium to speak and the event came alive with her passion, intelligence, wit and the profound messages she had to share with the small group assembled. Present was the Knox City Council CEO Bruce Dobson, Mayor Susan Laukens and Deputy Mayor Nicole Seymour along with an inspiring group of local women in-

vited to share this occasion. All those specially invited were selected because they have served tirelessly and with passion in their local communities in a wide variety of fields.

At the end of the speeches, it was a special delight to see every one of those women asked to come forward and receive a personally signed copy of Jacinta Parson’s book.

Their service often unseen in the community was celebrated openly and honoured, they are pillars of our society. mailcommunity.com.au

SHOP LOCAL MONBULK

Tech and service support Best Repairs & Accessories has now been renamed to 360Tech Solutions with the best services and goods as before. It does everything to live up to their name.

They believe customer satisfaction and happiness are key, and try to provide the best services and best products in keeping with their name.

Senior technician Nick has been in the business for more than 20 years, and has tackled everything from anti-virus products, to office software installations, hardware spring cleaning to difficult data recovery.

The business also supplies a wide range of software and phone and computer accessories.

Monbulk Business is grateful for the support shown by the Monbulk community and surrounds, and residents of the wider Yarra Ranges.

It’s all part of the service.

360Tech Solution is pleased to offer ON-Site tech support to locals, as they believe locals shouldn’t have to travel big distances to keep productive and connected.

Their motto is IT 360 Solutions with best

tech support and services.

They have a passion for technology and can assist with computer related queries, phones, iPads and tablets, car touch screens, watches, digital cameras, game consoles and more.

360Tech Solutions is at 26 Main Road (opposite the Monbulk Primary School), Monbulk.

Contact them on mobile 0416 855 751 or email monbulk360tech@gmail.com Open Monday to Friday 10am to 6pm, Saturday 11am to 5pm.

The store is stocked with great products and Nick can help with all your tech needs. 302103

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0416 855 751 Nick at work at 360Tech Solutions. 302103

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

www.360tech.com.au

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Tuesday, 11 October, 2022

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OPINION

Countdown to the election begins Soon, you’ll be asked to decide who will represent you and the local community at the state election in November. Elections are historic events. They demonstrate the strength of our democratic rights and freedoms and can change and improve the way we are governed.

It has been a privilege and an honour to serve our community as your local MP, and I haven’t wasted a minute over the past four years working to achieve better services and outcomes for our community. Whether it be advocating for better health, mental health and aged care services, better and safer roads, more reliable public transport or to improve the learning environment for school students, I’ll always stand up for the issues that matter most to our community.

After listening to many people, businesses, and community groups across our community, I’ve pledged that if the Victorian Liberals are elected to Government in November, we will allocate $8 million to build a new SES unit in the Dandenong Ranges, $5 million for

State of

Affairs Bridget Vallence Evelyn MP

road safety upgrades on Warburton Highway in Seville East, around $16 million to upgrade primary schools in Wandin North, Mt Evelyn, Coldstream, and Mooroolbark, and $1 million to redevelop the Coldstream sports pavilion.

Currently, our biggest challenge is that Victoria’s health system is in crisis and sadly one of the lowest funded in Australia. The Productivity Commission found Victoria has fewer hospital beds per person than any other state except Western Australia. The Maroondah Hospital is our closest major public hospital to receive emergency care and health

treatments but is stretched and desperately needs the upgrades that were promised by the Andrews government in 2018 but never delivered. Our Liberal plan includes investing $400 million to upgrade and expand Maroondah Hospital with more beds, a new emergency department and ICU, nurse training facilities, and increased mental health services.

It’s time our community gets the healthcare it deserves.

Furthermore, Victoria is headed for a troubling record $167 billion debt, and cost of living is increasing. Under a Liberal government, we pledge no new taxes and will legislate a debt cap.

I’m asking for your support to continue to recover and rebuild after the pandemic and the storms and be a strong voice to ensure our community gets its fair share. Together, we’ve achieved a great deal, but there’s always more to do. I’m determined to keep fighting to achieve the best possible outcomes for our local community. With your support, I will keep delivering for our community.

Funny French thriller is restlessly tense Restless Starring Frack Gastambide, Michaël Abiteboul and Simon Abkarian Rated MA15+ 4.5/5 A French remake of the South Korean film A Hard Day, Restless is a compelling, darkly funny action thriller.

After hiding a body resulting from a hitand-run, corrupt cop Thomas’s (Franck Gastambide) life unravels when he is blackmailed by a fellow cop.

The first act sees Thomas take ingeniously desperate measures to hide the man he ran over in his mother’s coffin, and establishes important details such as Thomas’s family and his loyal colleague Marc (Michaël Abiteboul).

As suspicion tightens around him and he is forced to revisit his macabre deed, Thomas and the viewer gain insight into the man he accidentally killed and the depth of corruption in his precinct, and Simon Abkarian is very amusing as Marelli, the suave sociopath blackmailing him.

The film’s tight, steady pacing draws tension from Thomas’s worsening situation, but the third act is almost an inversion of the first act, as Thomas uses his ingenuity to turn the tide against Marelli.

The performances feel natural, the dialogue is frequently witty and the action is sparse but impactful, with the climax featuring an impressive explosion-based stunt.

The only weak link is the internal affairs investigation in the opening, which feels like a redundant plot-point.

It’s often hard to discuss films like Restless – simple, very well-constructed films – but Restless stands out for its humour and strong sustained suspense, and is available for streaming on Netflix.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

How the past informs the future This is the third in a series of three articles featuring the 2022 Cities of Literature Meeting hosted by Melbourne, our own UNESCO City of Literature since 2008.

At the 2022 Cities of Literature Network Meeting in Melbourne, representatives from cities around the world discussed the important question: “How will the last five years impact your next five years?”

At the “Reader Development” Roundtable, participants discussed action plans to sustain organisational growth and their advocacy to government, promote reading and literacy, facilitate reader participation and interaction, and enhance diversity, equity and inclusion in the distribution of access and resources.

Equally critical is to gather and understand data that facilitate the implementation of all these plans.

A great variety of insights and perspectives were shared. For example, Dominique Lemieux from Quebec highlighted the city’s efforts to “go to the public to find the reader”, inviting not only teachers and librarians but also doctors and nurses to serve as “reading ambassadors”. Damjan Zorc from Ljubljana also reported how coupons and word games were used to connect with families and young readers in that city.

Carmen Casares from Granada explained how Spain is hard at work bridging community and culture via theatre. Through the renowned Festival of Puppet Theatre “Quiquiriquí”, the city connects citizens with artists, providing visibility and training to emerging talents while facilitating their dialogues with more established and experienced colleagues.

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Tuesday, 11 October, 2022

PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN Christine Yunn-Yu Sun, Star Mail book reviewer.

In terms of meeting readers where they are, Natalie Mason from City of Melbourne Libraries presented an excellent example.of providing community-driven collections and programs through a series of “pop-up libraries”.

Designed to support present and future readers as Melbourne emerges from lockdown, the initiative sets out to establish eight themed libraries across the city for a period of 12 months. Among these is the “Feed Your Mind” library at Queen Victoria Market, which features books, author talks and workshops focused on good food.

Meanwhile, the library at Federation Square encourages kids to explore worlds of fiction, science and history. The Express Book Bar in Little Collins Street offers popular business, cooking and travel titles to those “needing a book in a hurry”, while the Lygon Street Biblioteca invites readers to peruse its collection of bestsellers, new fiction and classic titles.

In terms of reader feedback, different organisations have their own ways to understand and cater for public needs. For example,

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the Dublin International Literary Award invites readers across the world to nominate a novel written in English (or in English translation) through their libraries. In Norwich, a community-led advisory group works with an artist-led panel to assist the board of the National Centre for Writing.

In Dunedin, the New Zealand Young Writers Festival works with presenters and participants to ensure a safe environment is provided for young people wanting to try “something new and unfamiliar”. In Melbourne, Kids’ Own Publishing co-creates and publishes books by kids for kids so that young people can help determine “who is making the decision” and “whose voice gets celebrated”.

Finally, both Australian Poetry and PEN Melbourne emphasised the importance of honouring reader safety and sensitivity – not just showing awareness of feedback, but to demonstrate efforts to respect and willingness to change.

What’s on Kemp’s curtain call The 1812 Theatre The History Boys.

The 1812 Theatre’s October production was Alan Bennett’s The History Boys. A story of a mythical boys grammar school in the north of England where the headmaster wants it t be an up and coming school and the students are preparing for entrance exams to Cambridge and Oxford Universities.

A large cast of 12 students, three teachers and the Headmaster.

The director, Daxter Burke chose the intimate theatre The Bakery at 1812 to give the audience more feeling of the story. The eight students gave stirling performances particularly as some had only done school plays. Their accents were good, their French was good and the acting great.

Hector, the old fashioned teacher who was not quite what he seemed was given an excellent portrayal by Peter Maver. Who handled the role with professionalism.

Irwin was the new teacher brought in by the Headmaster as a modern style teacher to bring a modern feel to the school. Well interpreted by Blake Singer who caught the character as envisaged by the author. A great performance.

The only lady teacher in the school was Mrs Lintott played by Marianne Collopy. Another superior performance with Collopy capturing the essence of such a character.

A great presentation by the 1812 Theatre keeping up their high standard of performance.

The show finishes Saturday October 29.

Bookings:> 9758 3964 The Basin Theatre Gentlemen Incorporated.

The Basin theatre decided as the last two years have been too dramatic that this October, they would give their audiences some light relief.

Gentlemen Incorporated was the answer. A light-hearted comedy about Damien who runs a male escort business.

When his old friend Marc turns up unexpectedly, Damien offers him a job. Little did they know that Marc’s mother is one of Damien’s clints and Marc’s girlfriend’s boss s another of Damien’s clients.

Gordon Boyd was Damien, a great chrematistic of such a role and added to his good portrayal his timing along with that of Laell Melita as mother with door to door entry timing was a delight and spot on. As Marc’s mother Laell Melita gave a stirling performance, capturing the role as envisaged Her son Marc was well played with gusto by James Ness. An energetic performance and his outlook on life as Marc was suddenly changed.

Marc’s girl friend Isabelle was played

by Elise D’Amico. A good portrayal of the girl who thought she was deserted but NO Marc was back in her life.

Isabelle’s boss and customer of Damien, Marion, was played by AudreyMaeve Barker. Another good interpretation of the character.

The stage was set in two parts, Damien’s home and office and on audience left was Marion’s office. A well set stage with the obligatory six doors as in every farce which were put to good use and as previously mentioned , goof timing in the use of same.

A great evening of fun with plenty of laughs from the audience who thoroughly enjoyed the evening.

The show finishes Saturday October 16.

Bookings: 1300 7884 668.

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WANDIN SILVAN FIELD DAYS 2022

Welcome from president Welcome to the 2022 Wandin Silvan Field Days – for a 53rd year.

Not been able to run for the previous two years due to the pandemic, we are back full of excitement and enthusiasm for a successful event.

I have been a Committee member for many years, but this is my first year as President.

In replacing William Anker, I look forward to continuing his efforts and the challenge of increasing the profile and maintaining the high interest in this important local event.

I would also like to welcome Chris Manders as our new treasurer, replacing Geoff Peacock in the role he held for an impressive 29 years – a role and feat very much appreciated by all.

With the weather looking like a wet spring, I hope it can be dry for us for at least a few days over our event.

From the long-serving committee members, to exhibitors past and present, to the numerous community group volunteers and the all important patrons, I thank you all.

Without your support and participation we would not have maintained our event for such a long period of time.

Our Field Days not only provide the opportunity to see the latest in farm machinery, technology and related services, but continue as a great opportunity to catch up and network with others in the industry and local area.

A diverse range of machinery and equipment will again be on display - tractors, irrigation supplies, spray equipment, and water tanks.

Farm maintenance needs are covered with exhibits of such as lawn mowers, chainsaws and wood splitters.

Stalls with various tools, garden supplies and work wear are also scattered around the event.

The Wandin Silvan Field Days will be open to the public: 8.30am - 5.00pm Friday 14 October.

8.30am - 4.00pm Saturday 15 October.

· ·

President Brad Finger welcomes everyone back to the Wandin Silvan Field Days.

Local schools provide catering at the Field Days ensuring that there is a constant variety of food for exhibitors from early in the morning until late in the day.

As well as the social networking opportunity, this provides them an important fundraising opportunity and we encourage you to take advantage of their delicious refreshments.

The Field Days committee recognise the many hours volunteered by our local CFA Groups who greatly assist in the organisation

of the event.

In return, proceeds from gate entry fees are donated back to them to assist in the on-going operations of the vital role they play in our communities.

In addition to the main displays there are a number of lifestyle and general interest stalls featuring, with something of interest for everyone.

The popular Yarra Valley Machinery Preservation Society will again be displaying and operating their Farm Machinery of yesteryear.

We also have draught horses on display, an amazing demonstration of chainsaw carving and Black Snake productions doing educational talks on snake awareness.

I think that you will agree there is something of interest for the whole family at the Field Days.

With a willing and supportive committee behind me, I look forward to welcoming you all as we celebrate the 53rd annual Wandin Silvan Field Days.

- Brad Finger

Celebrating 53 rd year

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Friday 14th & Saturday 15th October 2022

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MAIL 17

WANDIN SILVAN FIELD DAYS 2022

Entire range on display RedGum Products will be in attendance at the Wandin Silvan Field Days and we will have our entire range of log splitters and chippers on display and in action.

Since 2008, RedGum Products has supplied over 30,000 log splitters and wood chippers to the Australian market, making us the country’s leading supplier of Honda-powered log splitters and chippers.

All RedGum-branded products are highperformance machines supported by an extensive network of 140+ dealers across Australia.

To celebrate our return to the Wandin Silvan Field Days after a 2 year gap, we will be offering $300 OFF the RedGum Deluxe Log Splitter (RRP $3299) and the RedGum Deluxe Lifter-Splitter (RRP $3789).

These premium yet Heavy-Duty logsplitters are backed by our “Money Back Guarantee” and will split any firewood and get the job done.

We will have on display the very popular RedGum Electric Logsplitter (RRP $1799) compact yet powerful, simply plug it in and start splitting your wood.

RedGum Deluxe Lifter-Splitter

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RedGum Deluxe Log Splitter

This log splitter is powered by a 230V electric motor and has a 3-pin plug, making it ideal for home owners and domestic users.

We will also be celebrating the launch of the RedGum 25000 Super V Vertical Lifter-Splitter, which splits with OVER 25,000kgs of Force.

This powerful log splitter, driven by a Honda GX200 engine and a special German-grade Steel Wedge, can cut through the toughest Australian wood! It also has a Hydraulic Log-Lifting Table, which allows you to split logs for hours without experiencing any back pain.

Only at the Wandin Silvan Field Days will you be able to see this impressive machine in action.

Visit us at Site K6 - K8 (Front Oval) at the Wandin Silvan Field Days for a wide display and demonstration of log splitters, chippers and accessories.

Visit www.RedGumProducts.com.au or Call 1300 039 251 for more information or to find a RedGum dealer near you.

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WANDIN SILVAN FIELD DAYS 2022

There will be old and new tractors for attendees to look at.

The Machinery Preservation Society has worked hard to preserve historic machinery.

Something for everyone Always a popular event among locals, it originally hosted a small number of tractors and farm machinery with a couple of white tents scattered throughout a single oval.

Gruyere farmer Peter Burgi is one still around that attended the first festival in 1969.

He recalled a different scene from what visitors will see at the festival today.

“It was just a circle of exhibitors around the East Wandin Cricket Ground,” he said.

“It was a beautiful day, not a cloud in the sky.

“It was primarily designed to show off the new equipment that was available, more of a machinery field day.”

The event originally started as a means for people to source information and network with others in the industry.

“When we first started there was no internet and no mobile phones so you had to work to get your information,” Mr Burgi said.

“You could come along to the field days and talk to the people that were selling things and compare them on the site.”

Wind the clock forward to today and the festival has grown into a much larger event, not only for the agriculture and horticulture industry but also other types of businesses and even families.

“It’s changed from purely a farmers’ day to cater for women and children and for people that don’t have the interest in farming,” Mr Burgi said.

Upon arrival at this year’s event, visitors will still notice the distinct horticultural and farm machinery theme that has become key to the festival.

A wide range of exhibitors will attend from across the country to display farm machinery, light industrial equipment, motor vehicles, irrigation equipment and water tanks, plus information on the latest pest and weed control, fertilisers and chemicals.

Those attending will not only see the latest in farm machinery, technology and related services but also have the chance to network with others in the industry.

But the event is not just for those who are interested in agriculture and horticulture - organisers said there would also be plenty for the

Wandin Silvan Field Days makes its return for 53rd year. entire family to do.

The Information and Lifestyle Pavillion will host special interest exhibitors selling a range of different things such as food, wine, craft, nursery produce, clothing, jewellery and much more.

The Heritage Draught Horse Club will attend to display and promote the use of draught horses in bygone days.

Robby Bast, Chainsaw Sculptor, will be demonstrating his amazing craft.

As much as the festival has changed over the years, Mr Burgi said it was a big achievement to have kept the social aspect of the event going for such a long time.

“To be able to run it for over 50 years is a pretty fair effort,” he said. “(I enjoy) meeting people that you don’t see on a regular basis...talking to the exhibitors that you’ve probably known for many years.

“I’ve made some very good friends over the years.”

The Wandin Silvan Field Days will be held on 14 and 15 October this year at the Wandin East Recreation Reserve in Wandin East.

Machinery Preservation Society will be joining the Field Days.

Get set-up for Spring with TTMI From lifestyle properties to full-scale agriculture, TTMI has a range of machinery to suit all operations.

Ride-on mowers, quadbikes, slashers, compact tractors and implements for all jobs on the farm.

Workshop, Field Service and Spare parts for all farm machinery. TTMI will keep your machines working for you.

Call-in or call us today on (03) 5633 1588.

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MAIL 19

WANDIN SILVAN FIELD DAYS 2022

South Australian couple, Arnd and Heidi Enneking bring an infectious passion to their uniquely Australian brand.

Cordless secateurs for foot paring and pruning.

An innovative solution At Mobishear Australia innovation is in the blood.

South Australian couple, Arnd and Heidi Enneking, bring an infectious passion to their uniquely Australian brand.

As experienced and passionate farmers they have a wealth of experience dealing with the challenges of life on the land.

Now, with their own brand of Mobishear Australia based at Mount Barker, they are working to bring their innovative solutions

to a wider audience.

Cutting the cord As the first Australian brand to offer a completely cordless shearing handpiece and more recently 100 per cent cordless secateurs for foot paring & pruning, Mobishear are delivering on customer’s requests for simpler tools that are truly cordless.

Add to that a two year warranty and fast parts support and you get an Australian brand that more & more customers are trusting for

their cordless equipment needs.

Their experience as farmers influences everything they do as a business. “We don’t sell anything until it has proven it’s worth in Australian conditions,” said Arnd.

Old-fashioned ag industry service Asked about their emphasis on service, Arnd said: “Customer service is the focus of our business.

We know that in farming there are never enough hours in the day, and we know that

your equipment needs to be ready when you need it. When you buy a Mobishear, whether on-line or through your local Ag store, we make sure the relationship does not end with the sale. We offer full parts and technical support to keep you moving during your busiest time.”

More info at www.mobishear.com.au The Mobishear team will be at the Wandin Silvan Field Days and look forward to sharing their products with you.

12571747-JC41-22

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WANDIN SILVAN FIELD DAYS 2022

The mighty 336 hp Deutz-Fahr 9340 TTV Warrior pictured at Seville Tractors.

Deutz-Fahr chair, Aldo Carozza, pictured with Matthew Giordano and Gerard Darveniza from Seville Tractors.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Honoured by top gong It is a unique day when the head of one of the world’s biggest agricultural manufacturers is on hand to personally congratulate a local tractor and machinery dealer for their performance.

That proud moment took place in September.

At a special function organised by importer and distributor, PFG Australia, some 270 dealers, suppliers, guests and partners were in attendance as the chair of SAME Deutz-Fahr, Aldo Carozza, awarded ‘Deutz-Fahr dealer of

the year’ to Matthew Giordano and Gerard Darveniza of Seville Tractors.

Given the booming ag industry and competition from other dealerships across the state and the nation, it is quite the accolade.

“We’re delighted with the award and it feels like a lot of hard work is paying off,” says Gerard. “To have the leadership of Deutz-Fahr recognise who we are and how we operate is really special.

“Obviously, none of this takes place without a loyal and valued customer base. We also have

a great team, a fantastic suite of products, and all the guys here love the industry and its challenges.”

Seville Tractors is based right in the heart of the Yarra Valley, with its sales and service reach extending beyond Yea to the north, Pakenham to the south and, of course, all through the lush and verdant wine growing regions.

The latest Deutz-Fahr tractors are on display, including the mighty Warrior range, and the team stocks all manner of machinery and genuine parts. Know-how and exemplary old-

fashioned service are thrown in for good measure.

Said one customer recently after taking delivery of a brand new Deutz-Fahr 6G Agrotron: “Their back up service is terrific and they’re always happy to help.”

Come and see for yourselves. Say g’day to Gerard and Matt and experience the Seville Tractors difference.

For more details please visit www.sevilletractors.com.au or call (03) 5964 4649

CALL GERARD TO SECURE YOUR UNIT TODAY

0438 128 568 51 MONBULK-SEVILLE RD, SEVILLE VIC 3139 W: WWW.SEVILLE TR ACTORS.COM.AU E: SALES@SEVILLE TR ACTORS.COM.AU

AWARDED NATIONAL

AGROPLUS 420 PROFILINE

DEALER IN AUSTRALIA

MULTIPLE UNITS SECURED

BULK DEAL ON SALE ONLY WHILE STOCK LASTS 96hp tier 3 engine Wet clutch power shuttle 45/45 transmission

ON SALE NOW $

88,900 + GST

3 speed powershift Engine cruise control 3 speed PTO 540/750/1000 4 wheel independent braking Stop & Go System 3 sets remotes Elec 3PL lift system-3600kg 1.8 external width

#1 VINEYARD TRACTOR I N T H E YA R R A VA L L E Y 12571530-MS41-22

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MAIL 21

WANDIN SILVAN FIELD DAYS 2022

The key to healthy soil

Home gardener Biolink range.

It’s the combination and the interactions these have in the soil that makes the difference” explained Biolink co-owner Kevin Beecroft.

The six powerful live microbial groups in Biolink organic fertiliser and soil stimulants are: Enterococcus Faecalis, Lactobacillus Group, Pediococcus pentosaceus, Aspergillus Group, Bacillus Subtilis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

The Biolink range also uses the power of humic fulvic acid, a key ingredient used to boost the bioavailability of organic nitrogen and reduce the use of synthetic fertilisers.

Visit www.biolink4plants.com.au for more information about restoring the health of your soil.

Kev and Graham from Biolink.

12570630-ET41-22

It’s no secret that much of our soil is tired.

Chemical fertilisers, pesticides, pollution, erosion, and intensive agriculture have stretched healthy soils to the limit.

To help restore the natural abundance and sustainability of soil, we now know that increasing the microbial activity is transformative.

Biolink is an Australian owned company committed to supporting growers and home gardeners achieve more sustainable, profitable crops and gardens. Their microbial-based range of natural fertilisers, soil stimulants, and animal probiotics are helping to restore soils and grow healthier plants and animals.

Biolink Ignition speeds up the composting process, helping to re-incorporate rich organic material back into the soil for increased moisture, nutrient and water holding ability.

Combined with conventional fertilisers, Biolink Bio-Hum helps maintain nutrients, boosts uptake and reduces losses of essential nutrients needed for your plants to thrive.

Biolink’s garden range of Sprinkle and Soak, Germinator and Biolink Brew fertilisers tea bags are a winner with home gardeners, reviving the soil through biologicals and creating the perfect environment for vegetables, fruit trees and ornamentals plants to grow.

New Opti-Gut is an animal probiotic for cattle, sheep, pigs, horses, fish, dogs, and cats.

It’s working wonders to build a healthy biome, supplement inadequate diets, and support overall animal wellbeing.

“Based on research both here and overseas, we’ve blended six microbial groups that researchers, gardeners, and farmers in the field, have found to boost microbial activity in the soil and plant growth. The benefits are not just the high number of microbials in our products.

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COME VISIT US AT

WANDIN SILVAN FIELD DAYS

EXCLUSIVE OFFER

2 YEAR / 30,000KM FREE SCHEDULED SERVICING ON ALL MAZDA BT-50 UTES* (PRODUCE THIS ADVERT TO QUALIFY FOR THIS OFFER)

Our state of the art modern showroom and large display areas allow customers to casually browse the great range of Mazda Vehicles.

Our friendly staff are specialists who are proud of their association with Mazda, and look forward to assisting you when searching for your new or used vehicle.

395 Maroondah HWY, Ringwood, Melbourne, VIC, 3134 Ph (03) 9870 9322 ringwoodmazda.com.au

Private Buyers Only. * Applies to all BT-50 Models sold before 31/10/2022, unless extended, varied or while stocks last at participating Mazda Dealers. 2 years free scheduled servicing applies to up to two standard scheduled services (as specified in the Service Warranty Booklet) for the first two years or 30,000km, whichever comes first. Free scheduled maintenance services must be redeemed within specified service windows and is of limited scope. Not available with other offers. Ts&Cs apply.

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12571092-ET41-22

For more than 26 years Ringwood Mazda have been selling and servicing new and used vehicles in Melbourne’s Eastern suburbs.

MAIL 23

WANDIN SILVAN FIELD DAYS 2022

Elstar Ag Boss 250cc

Ride in to meet the team Ride On Mowers Sales in Healesville will be setting up at the Wandin Silvan Field Days, showcasing the latest mowers and garden care equipment and to discuss the services they provide.

Husband and wife Peter and Suzanne Sommers have been in business for seven years and have ride on mowers and push mowers for

sale from various brands including Cub Cadet and Rover.

They service all brands of mowers and also sell Elstar Agboss quad bikes tippers.

When you visit the business, you are likely to meet someone from the three person team, which includes Jason. A long standing and knowledgeable team member.

They are driven to supply goods and services of a high standard and stand out for their great customer service and products.

Ride On Mowers Sales strive to give you truthful unbiased information on any and all products they have to offer to make you feel comfortable with your purchase.

You have the backing of in shop servicing

and repairs, if you have a problem should one arise the team is here to help.

There are pick up and delivery options available for repairs plus new purchases.

Visit the team at 214 Maroondah Highway, Healesville or say hello at the Wandin Silvan Field Days.

Enjoy Mowing this Spring!

We have the Lawn Mower for you. Come and see us at the Field Days for personalised service.

Ride on Mowers has a great selection of Cub Cadet & Rover mowers to suit your mowing requirements.

Great after sales service, parts & great range of mowers

Daniela

Visit us at Ride on Mower Sales 214 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville Email: rideonmowersales@bigpond.com

5962 1050

12571808-MS41-22

o n i t r a M e D Labor for Monbulk 12572111-ET41-22

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WANDIN SILVAN FIELD DAYS 2022

All your mowing needs The RedShed - Melbourne’s Mower Centre will be in attendance at the Wandin Silvan Field Days and we will have a huge range of outdoor power equipment like Ride Ons, Lawnmowers, Robotic Automowers, Chainsaws, Log splitters, Generators and Battery gear on display.

For over 20 years, The RedShed - Melbourne’s Mower Centre has been Melbourne’s Largest Stockist of Lawn Mowers and Outdoor Power Equipment at Melbourne’s BEST prices, assisting tens of thousands of people in finding the right product or machine to get their outdoor jobs done properly.

The friendly RedShed team will offer Expert Advice to make those outdoor chores even easier. The RedShed carries a large selection of high-quality products for both homeowners and commercial operators.

When you need a quality mower or powered product for your home or garden maintenance, The RedShed is the place to go.

Ride Ons, lawnmowers, trimmers, brush cutters, chainsaws, log splitters, pole saws, blowers, generators, chippers, battery-powered equipment and protective clothing are among our most popular products.

RedShed is proud to stock Husqvarna, Honda, Cub Cadet, RedGum Products, Rover, Masport, and Greenworks machines, among others. Our qualified mechanics also provide repairs and servicing for all Outdoor Power Products and can assist you in locating the correct parts needed to repair your machine.

No other store can compete with our selection, prices and services, and with our “Product Satisfaction Guarantee”, you can be confident that you will always get the right product for the job.

We have seven fantastic stores in Dandenong, Bayswater, Mitcham, Cranbourne, Pakenham, Narre Warren, and Bunyip, making it simple to find a RedShed store near you.

Our Superstores in Bayswater, Cranbourne, Narre Warren, Mitcham, Pakenham, and Bunyip are open six days a week, and our Dandenong Superstore is OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK. Visit us at the Wandin Silvan Field Days at Site J4 - J8 (Front Oval) for a wide range of products such as ride ons, lawnmowers, chainsaws, logsplitters, and more.

For more information, go to www.TheRedShed.com.au or call 1300 136 572.

Find a RedShed store near you for all your mowing needs.

12571927-HC41-22

Ride on mowers and other items will be on display at the Wandin Silvan Field Days site.

The RedShed team will be at the Wandin Silvan Field Days to share with you their latest products.

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MAIL 25

WANDIN SILVAN FIELD DAYS 2022

Car you can depend on Are you in the market for a new UTE or SUV to suit your day to day needs, whether that be on the farm or around the suburbs?

Genesis Motors Isuzu UTE based in Lilydale will be able to assist as an Isuzu UTE dealership, offering the range of Isuzu D-MAX UTE and Isuzu MU-X SUV and other high quality vehicles.

The team will be setting up this weekend at the Wandin Silvan Field Days and are looking forward to speaking with you about the latest ranges and their services.

Talk to the team you can trust which has a record of high standards after being awarded the #1 Customer Satisfaction Dealer of the year for Victoria in 2018 and 2019 and the National Dealer of the year for customer satisfaction in 2019.

Genesis Motors has a long history of helping locals purchase their next vehicles, after being first established in Ringwood in 2011.

It is led by Dealer Principal, Sumil Salgadoe, who has exceptional knowledge of the brand and industry after working from the ground up at Isuzu UTE Australia head office in Brisbane in 2008.

Mr Salgadoe has recruited a team around him who all believe in the Isuzu UTE products as much as he does and with that has come rapid growth seeing the expansion and relocation to Lilydale in 2016. The Isuzu D-MAX and Isuzu MU-X have been built with the values that have made Isuzu famous: dependability, reliability and efficiency.

While Genesis Motors deals with Isuzu UTE as its primary product, they also trade in preowned vehicles which are traded and backed by the experienced staff.

Therefore if you are looking for a pre-owned vehicle Genesis Motors has a range that caters

Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain Volcanica Amber and MU-X 4X4 LS-T Mercury Silver DPS to your requirement.

Whether purchasing a new car or servicing your vehicle, the team’s mission is to ensure an enjoyable experience from the family owned and run business.

Genesis Motors have factory trained Service Technicians to ensure the safety of your vehicle is met at all times.

As a customer, you will be treated like family ensuring unprecedented attention and care

is provided at all times.

So pop in and see the team at Wandin Silvan Field Days site or visit them at Genesis Motors Isuzu UTE at 461 Maroondah Highway, Lilydale VIC 3140, Australia.

As your Federal MP, I am here to help.

Please contact my office if I can be of assistance.

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR CASEY aaron.violi.mp@aph.gov.au 9727 0799

12571685-DL41-22

AARON VIOLI MP Authorised by A. Violi, Liberal Party of Australia, Suite 11, 1 East Ridge Drive, Chirnside Park VIC 3116.

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12571631-JW41-22

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MAIL 27

WANDIN SILVAN FIELD DAYS 2022

Stanley set up at a fundraising BBQ.

Stanley is available to hire from Yarra Valley Gas.

Small business, BIG heart Over the past 10 years the team at Yarra Valley Gas has been asked by many organisations if they could donate BBQ bottles to local charities and non for profit organisations for sausage sizzles, working bee lunches, community support and disaster relief programs.

The next question they would usually receive was “Do you have a BBQ we could borrow?“ Owners Michael and Jacqui then sat down and found a unique and practical way to solve the problem of such a simple question.. From that “Stanley” was born.

“What if we created a BBQ trailer that we could loan out to groups at no charge to help them bring people together and provide a platform for them to raise money at very little outlay.”

After the passing of Jac’s grandfather Stan (a world war two veteran) she came up with the idea to honour his memory under the ANZAC code of conduct – Courage, Ingenuity, Endurance, Humour and Mateship.

“Our BBQ trailer is there to use free of charge for any non for profit community based organization to help support it and to bring people together, to generate friendships, to encourage them to support each other and keep things going in times of need, my Pa would have loved it,” Jacqui said.

Their little idea has since helped to generate over $74,000 in funds for local charities and groups.

If you like more information on Stanley please email jacqui@yvgas.com.au or call the office on 03 5964 4424.

Yarra Valley Gas is a 100 per cent independent, locally owned and operated gas company which has been in operation for over 45 years based in Wandin North.

They supply many customers across Victoria with LPG, Industrial Gases, BBQ cylinders and Forklift Gas.

Stanley the Yarra Valley Gas BBQ trailer helps community groups fundraise.

Picture: SUPPLIED

12571736-SN41-22

Bridget VALLENCE MP Delivering for our C ommunity

BridgetVallenceMP BridgetVallence.com.au 9735 3208

Authorised by Bridget Vallence MP. 143 Main Street, Lilydale VIC 3140.

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A 100% INDEPENDENT, LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED GAS SUPPLIER

WHAT WE DO...

• BBQ CYLINDER EXCHANGE & REFILLING • 15KG & 18KG FORKLIFT CYLINDERS • 45KG EXCHANGE CYLINDERS • DOMESTIC BULK DELIVERIES • COMMERCIAL BULK DELIVERIES • ARGON + NITROGEN + BEER GAS • OXYGEN + ACETYLENE • RETESTING OF ALL CYLINDERS AS1596

Quality ISO 9001

FIND US ON FACEBOOK 51 HUNTER ROAD, WANDIN NORTH - 5964 4424

A 100% INDEPENDENT, LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED GAS SUPPLIER 12571923-AI41-22

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MAIL 29

PUZZLES

13

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14-10-22

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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A FAMILY HOME THAT IS SPECTACULAR LARGER than it seems, this 5-bedroom (and study) family home has been in the one family for many years – now it’s time to pass the baton. Understated cottage frontage gives only a hint of what is to come with its welcoming waterfall and pond centred garden.

Once you open the door into the private entry to your left is the very spacious study (or 6th bedroom) positioned to escape the bustle of family life and work or hide!

The entry opens into comfortable lounge warmed by a cosy combustion fire. Off the lounge rest and revive whilst reading in the library ‘wing.’ This area offers stunning views of both gardens and the mountains.

Zoned away from the living area is the perfect parental retreat with large bedroom, private deck (with outdoor spa!) and a beautifully appointed ensuite with cast iron bath and an incredible view.

The hub of the house truly is the kitchen/ meals area designed for the dedicated chef (or most creative mess maker!). Have your breath taken away by the northerly view and the mountains across the valley below.

The rich Jarrah flooring and cabinetry adds class and charm, whilst the dining area accommodates family gatherings with space for a large dining table. This is where family come to talk about the day over a great meal.

Open the double glass doors and step onto the large deck and take in the views of the mountains, entertain, relax, or enjoy the birds eye view of the beautiful garden below.

Enjoy a balmy summer night after dinner, have dessert on the deck watching the pink and orange sky, it is special here.

Heading downstairs you enter the ‘play area’ of the house with its massive living and rumpus (perfect for a pool table) space.

Entertain from the bar and watch TV or just play!

Off the ‘play’ space are four bedrooms all with built in robes and all with stunning views. This a great teenage retreat or even guest area and lends itself to multigenerational living. There is also the recently renovated family bathroom and a laundry with space to get the job done.

For those that enjoy the outdoors, the garden has many secret areas to sit a contemplate life. It is one of those gardens that must be seen to truly be appreciated.

There are many deck areas including

the ‘cubbyhouse’ deck to relax on whilst listening to the water cascade into the pond below. On a warm day sit on the pond landing and soak up the sun whilst on a cool day you can sit around the fire pit and enjoy the warmth. On any day wander the paths of the garden and enjoy the peaceful paradise or just hide in the treehouse!

When you enter this house, it is like playing pass the parcel, with every layer unwrapping another treasure.

And on top of all of that enjoy: The proximity to schools and shops Short walk to Upwey Train Station Upwey Township with speciality shops and an active community.

Hydronic heating Reverse Cycle Air conditioning 6kW Solar Power system Under house workshop and storage Rainwater tanks Enormous block, massive views, north facing (sunlight!) and peace All this only under one hour’s drive from Melbourne CBD. See what all the fuss is about, living in the hills. A wonderful place to live.

Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 or Jane Mortimer 0457 620 542 are looking forward to showing you 33 Highcliff Road in Upwey. ●

· · · · · · · · · ·

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 33 Highcliff Road, UPWEY Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 garage Price: $1,050,000-$1,150,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 and Jane Mortimer 0457 620 542, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL, 9754 6111

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

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MAIL 31

HOME FOCUS

BEAUTIFUL TREE TOP HOME WHETHER you’re starting out, scaling down in style, or supplementing your property portfolio, this move-in ready home moments from town is an appealing acquisition.

Set only 700m from Monbulk’s shopping, schools, and transport and a short stroll from Sassafras Creek Linear Reserve, the lifestyle here is loaded with advantages its your chance to secure a property now.

The 2,100sqm (approx.) allotment this residence resides on comes equipped with 3 car spaces and sizeable sheds ideal for hobbies or storage. With lovely outlooks and several covered and open outdoor entertaining areas, enjoying the garden will be effortless in every season.

The interior is equally appealing and has been upgraded to an exacting standard.

Polished timber flooring flows from the lounge and dining area with floor to ceiling windows through to the open plan meals area and kitchen. With highlights including stone benchtops, SS appliances, and direct access to the deck, those who love to cook and entertain will find it easy to imagine living here.

With bonus features including a newly renovated main bathroom, updated ensuite in the main bedroom with walk-in robe, sunfilled family bedrooms, generous laundry, and ducted heating and cooling for comfort, astute buyers will be suitably impressed.

Prompt inspection is advised, so plan your viewing today.

2,100sqm (approx.) property steps from Monbulk village and Sassafras Creek Linear Reserve Charming contemporary home with 2 garden sheds and 3 carport spaces Open plan kitchen with stone benchtops and SS appliances Main bedroom with new ensuite Exquisite outdoor entertaining areas and lovely outlooks ●

· · · · ·

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 216 Emerald Monbulk Road, MONBULK Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 garage Price: $730,000 - $790,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Brad Conder 0422 639 115, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE, 97546888 32 MAIL

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Real Estate you can trust!

We ’ r e h e r e t o h e l p FOR SALE

48 Sandells Road, TECOMA

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

VAST AND VERSATILE FAMILY RESIDENCE

4A 3B 2C

FOR SALE

18-20 Brooking, Upwey

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

FAMILY HOME IN PEACEFUL AND PICTURESQUE GARDENS

4A 2B 2C

With a valuable location steps from Tecoma township and a versatile floorplan for growing families, this 1,027sqm (approx.) property promises to enrich your way of life. Enhanced with a sealed drive, double carport, and terraced rear yard with paved patios, open wood fire, cubby house, and greenhouse, you will be inspired to immerse yourself in everything this home has on offer.

This impeccable residence on a peaceful cul-de-sac culminating at Brooking Street Reserve makes it easy to see why it has been held by the same family for 40 years. Lovingly maintained and a magnificent place for family living with a lush landscape, this home is an opportunity to enjoy an outstanding way of life.

Sam Adamson

Glenn Chandler

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

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

Daniel Steen

Sam Adamson

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

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

FOR SALE

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

22 Kitchener Road, TECOMA

SPECTACULAR CIRCA 1920S HOME STEPS FROM TOWN

3A 2B 2C

With exceptional character elements and enduring adaptability, this breathtaking circa 1920s residence will impress. Situated within strolling distance of both Belgrave & Tecoma’s townships, schools and train stations, this home’s legacy is set to continue for years to come. From its sealed drive with ample off-street parking and expansive paved patio for entertaining, a family-focused lifestyle awaits. Through the landscaped gardens, a pathway leads to the covered verandah entry that offers lush outlooks of the local surrounds.

Sam Adamson

Daniel Steen

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

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

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

Tuesday, 11 October, 2022

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MAIL 33

HOME FOCUS

CONTEMPORARY STYLE IN QUIET LOCATION IT’S quiet here, the treed outlook is easy on the eye and is home to a variety of bird life and native wildlife that might just wander by.

A special place to live.

This contemporary style Fasham Johnson residence has the perfect floorplan for the growing family, the main bedroom (plus ensuite/BIRs) and study/nursery are zoned at one end of the home. The two remaining double bedrooms are at the other and serviced by a slate and timber accented bathroom with bath and separate shower.

Teenagers and parents will appreciate the room.

Expanses of glass, typical of this architectural design bring the outdoors, inside. The living spaces flow from one to the next, lounge with fireplace, dining through to the kitchen/living with wood fire and polished concrete floors. Granite bench tops, Smeg black appliances, matt black tapware and white cabinetry combine to create a stylish kitchen, the centre of the home.

The indoor/outdoor connectivity works well here, a large outdoor entertainment terrace awaits, with a covered pergola and wood fire, this takes advantage of the fabulous outlook. The intuitive design at the front of the property offers easy, covered, private access to your front door and plenty of off-street parking.

Whilst the location is quiet and private, you are not isolated. Accessibility to local community is easy, a short walk to the

senior school and sporting club, the general store and Bam Bam restaurant. A bus stop near the end of the street and Emerald township merely minutes away. Step out the back gate and wander around the old golf course, plenty of places to discover.

Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 and Meaghan Dolphin 0422 578 114 are looking forward to chatting to you about this property, they live nearby and have a great deal of local knowledge. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 14 Alfred Grove, EMERALD Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $850,000-$935,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 and Jane Mortimer 0457 620 542, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL, 9754 6111 34 MAIL

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Tuesday, 11 October, 2022

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Ranges COnVEnIEnT QuIET LOCATIOn

GEMBROOk 18 VISTA COuRT LOW MAINTENANCE LIVING

FAbuLOuS LOCATIOn AnD VIEWS

$770,000 - $840,000 3A 2B 2C 1E

Located at the end of a quiet court right near the heart of Gembrook. This home has all the modern conveniences and features open plan living, kitchen overlooking the large lounge that then flows out to the outdoor covered deck, a multipurpose room which could ideally be a 2nd living area/office/study or easily converted into a 4th bedroom, split system, wood fire, ducted heating, zoned Master bedroom at the front of the home with WIR & full ensuite, bIR’s, large driveway and double garage. Short stroll into town!

Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522

Jack Murray 0493 136 937

FLAT SunnY bLOCK

MOUNT DANDENONG 15 Ann COuRT FLAT LAND PLUS UPDATED HOME

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

EMERALD 13 bERRYS ROAD CENTRAL EMERALD WITH REAR LANE ACCESS

$785,000-$860,000 3A 2B 1C 1E

This tri-level home is set in the perfect location to make the most of the lovely views and all that Emerald Township has to offer is only a few minutes’ walk away. Features include 3 bedrooms & a study, large open plan living spaces, a spacious timber kitchen with SS upright stove and a dishwasher, a Solar 4kw system, single carport with plenty of off-street parking, fenced rear yard with rear lane access, pergola & a front deck all on just under a 1/4acre of established gardens. Don’t hesitate if you think this one might be for you!

Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522

Jack Murray 0493 136 937

COMPLETE THE DREAM

$815,000-$895,000 3A 2B 2C

Located in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, this solid brick home in a quiet court location is waiting & ready for new owners. Featuring Master bedroom with WIR & ensuite, main bathroom with shower & bath, open plan living, gas heating, Coonara wood heater, French doors open onto outdoor living area, flat low maintenance sunny backyard on over ½ an acre. The property backs onto the Ann Court Reserve, giving you plenty of privacy. Just a short drive to the Mount Dandenong township.

Grant Skipsey 0418 528 102

We put you first

FERNy CREEk 29 SEAbREEzE AVEnuE SHORT DRIVE INTO BELGRAVE CENTRAL

$1,000,000-$1,100,000 4A 1B 6C

This spacious blue stone home sits proudly on a 2249sqm block with fabulous views across to the Yarra Valley. Certain parts of the home need completion and offer earthy tones & rustic charm throughout, built-in bar, fireplace, split system, corner spa bath, large open plan living zones, master with direct access onto the balcony, double garage, second 2 car garage & workspaces, under the house storage, back to grid 12 solar panels, mains & tank water, fully fenced block with livestock fencing and plenty of off street parking.

Jan Brewster 0409 558 805

“We Put You First”

1 Bayview Rd, Belgrave Shop 2, 24 McBride Street, Cockatoo Tuesday, 11 October, 2022

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MAIL 35

HOME FOCUS

SPACIOUS AND STUNNING FAMILY HOME THIS beautifully presented 6 bedroom, 3 bathroom welcoming home is located on half an acre, and is in a prime location on a quiet unsealed road, with mains services connected and only 5 mins away from Cockatoo shopping precinct amenities.

Step outside to the rear garden and enjoy the level back yard as you meander amongst the stepping stones, you’ll see the dog yard, concreted entertaining area, and beautiful garden, complete with fruit trees.

There is also under house storage available and a brand new expansive 4 car shed with concreted floor and 4m high walls, a chicken coop, and stunning magnolia tree. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 4 Lisheen Road, COCKATOO Description: 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 4 garage Price: $960,000-$1,050,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Bethany Day 0438 844 968, BELL REAL ESTATE, EMERALD, 5968 6222 36 MAIL

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30 Ferres Road, Emerald

$750,000 - $820,000

24 Moxhams Road, Monbulk

$900,000 - $990,000

Neat and Cosy Emerald Gem on ¼ acre!

Country living with convenience, walk to Monbulk Main Street!

This exceptionally maintained home with freshly repointed roof & new wood fire is a short stroll into Emerald, but nestled in a picturesque setting, with private paved rear entertaining area and views across the rolling hill. There are 3 bedrooms with BIRs. Features include ducted heating & a heat transfer kit, as well as split system air conditioning, polished floor boards in the living area, & tiles in the laundry and bathroom.

The kitchen contains ample storage & an electric oven and cooktop. The bathroom is completely renovated with a glass shower, & gorgeous bath. There is convenient access from the laundry directly to the rear, fully fenced back yard. The backyard also contains a woodshed and fenced vegetable garden. This property also has a single car garage/workshop.

This welcoming light filled home with plentiful verandahs and decking for entertaining, provides 3 large bedrooms all with BIRs and ceiling fans, a family bathroom and a powder room.

This home features high ceilings, a modern kitchen with a gas cooktop and electric oven, and an open plan living area encompassing a double sided wood fire heater. There is also evaporative cooling, ducted heating, split system unit in the expansive lounge room, & ducted vacuum system. The concreted driveway with dual access leads to the DLUG with side door access & electric roller door. There is a 6.6kW Solar Panel system, as well as fruit trees & hedging trees along the boundary to ensure your privacy in this picturesque location that is a short stroll to the Monbulk Main street and amenities.

Contact: Samantha Scott 0438 680 032

Contact: Samantha Scott 0438 680 032

12 Allenby Avenue, Cockatoo Outstanding renovation opportunity in fantastic location!

$590,000 - $640,000

8 Belvedere Court, Gembrook

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

Lovingly Renovated Home!

This 5 bedroom, 2 bathroom family home is the ultimate opportunity for a renovator & is in walking distance to Cockatoo main street. The kitchen is fully renovated with new cabinetry and stone benchtops. There is ducted heating, & split system air conditioning. A large master bedroom with it’s own balcony, large ensuite, WIR, split system and ceiling fan. The lounge area with direct access to the carport and to the cellar, as well as a bedroom/study featuring on this level. The family bathroom has a spa bath, separate shower, & toilet. There are three large bedrooms, all with BIRs on the lower level. There is a large deck accessible from the second lounge room, and then a grassed & fenced backyard with tranquil and private nature views across the reserve.

This lovingly renovated 4 bedroom plus study home in Gembrook has a spacious kitchen with Caesar stone bench tops, modern cabinetry, an electric oven, gas cooktop, stainless steel appliances, and a walk-in pantry. The master bedroom is sophisticated with an ensuite, walk-in robe and is located away from the further spacious 3 bedrooms with built-in robes. Two additional rooms could be utilised as a work-from-home space, teenage retreat or business (STCA) with separate access, deck and powder room. Features include high ceilings, a wood heater, gas ducted heating, plush carpets, double-glazed windows and high-quality fixtures and fittings. Outside is an easily maintained flat, low maintenance back yard, shed, solar panels, carport, sealed roads, exposed aggregate driveway, cubby house, and beautiful Merbau deck with great views.

Contact: Aaron Day 0407 365 994

Contact: Bethany Day 0438 844 968

bellrealestate.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

5968 6222

311-313 Main St, Emerald Tuesday, 11 October, 2022

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MAIL 37

OPINION

Stop to domestic violence

By Graeme Dawson Years of anecdotal, medical and social welfare evidence of the prevalence and extent of domestic violence in our communities surely stamps us with a social sickness to our great shame.

It is all around us and lies just under the surface, camouflaged by sick - so called justification and threats of more abuse if silence is not maintained.

Whether the violence is physical, social, financial, economical, emotional or sexual, and is unwanted or uninvited, it is not part of a truly caring relationship.

Many readers of this article would know of, or suspect someone they know as being a victim of abuse.

Have a cupper – develop a confidential friendship if you have time.

If the victim is in danger don’t hesitate to

Focal Point Graeme Dawson call the police. Help is also available either from a GP (go with them), or a recommended counsellor, or for safe and expert care, they can get help from EDVOS (Eastern Domestic Violence Service).

Domestic violence is not just limited to partners, anyone who lives in the domicile of the family and are violated, are victims as well.

This is where children come in.

The innocents – relational breakdown collateral damage?

We are hearing regularly of assaults in our community and parents are worried about their children being out of their sight.

However, there is another danger crouching at the door – the danger of children being victims in family breakdowns.

I am talking of damage to innocent lives, when if they could ever deal with it, it would not be as children.

Our counselling service was always well booked with adult parents who were once a victim of their parent’s split.

Many of these victims are men who now find themselves perpetrators of the same abuse that was perpetrated against them.

Helping victims is the priority but we need to have a plan for helping the perpetrators along the way to become good partners and parents themselves.

Wake up Australia. Partnership violators cannot be allowed to continue. We need to

’out’ them so that they are stopped in their tracks with their current victims, and helped towards an understanding of their problem.

If they won’t be helped, at least they may be hindered from abusing again.

Relationships can only work where trust and respect are present. When trust is broken, respect is lost.

It takes time to rebuild trust, and love cannot be responsive until a level of trust has been restored.

If you are in an abusive relationship, and what you experience comes under any of the six abuse categories above, seek help today.

Many blessings Graeme Dawson - Chaplain to community If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or abuse, you can contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or through the online chat.

SNIPPETS Sunday 16 October starting at 2pm.

The program is as follows: The Six Studies in English Folk Song by Monica Edward (cello) and Mary Knights-Rutten (piano) Suite De Balley for flute and piano and Suitelies for solo flute by Livia Judge (flute) Pol Che per Mia Ventura by J. Rutten and The Apple Tree by Miriam Hyde performed by Danielle Zuccala and Jo-Anne Mileto (piano) The Lake in the Mountains - piano solo by Mary Knights-Rutten Improvisation as Nature and The Women of the Best by Jacqui Rutten with The Riddell Ensemble also Epiogue (movement 4) quartet No. 2 in A minor In Windsor Forest - Singularity Choir led by Cecily Woodberry (piano reduction) Door sales will go towards Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service.

Find out more at trybooking.com/BWYFC

MAIL SNIPPETS

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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HILLS

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Rainbow Family Playgroup

Soft Library exhibition Millers Homestead in Boronia has been hosting the wonderful ’Soft Library’ exhibition by textile artist Cat Rabbit for the month of September.

The Homestead has been transformed by Cat into a fantastical felt library run by bears, or ‘libearians’, many of whom are famous literary characters.

Lovingly made by the artist in felt and fab-

ed

Publish

y

Tuesda

Anthony Breslin Burrinja exhibition

Miller’s Homestead in Boronia has been hosting the wonderful ‘Soft Library’ exhibition by textile artist Cat Rabbit for the month of September.

Picture: ON FILE ric, the library houses books, portraits, and a special giant ‘storytime’ bear who invites visitors to sit and enjoy a ’Storybox’ story.

A short video of the exhibition can be viewed at: youtube.com/shorts/ FucmfQgPwys?feature=share Millers Homestead is located at the corner of Dorrigo Dr and Melrose Ct. It is open from

Monday to Friday 9.30am to 12pm and 1pm to 5pm.

Sacred Stage Concert As part of Sacred Stage’s 15th-anniversary concerts, a charity concert in memory of English composer Vaughan Williams will be held at the Dandenong Ranges Music Council Hall on

Award-winning Melbourne artist Anthony Breslin will be presenting the Melange art show at Burrinja Cultural Centre from Saturday 15 October until Saturday 19 November.

“I want ‘Melange’ to be an all-encompassing, theatrical encounter for the audience, drawing on my past theatre production creations,” Breslin said.

“The exhibition plays with the gallery space to provoke people’s imaginations as they experience the works, walking around them to explore and engage with them physically.”

Anthony Breslin is a Melbourne-based, award-winning artist of national and international renown. He has produced close to 60 solo exhibitions, an ‘art opera’ and published several books. Currently, his studio resides at Burrinja Cultural Centre in Upwey, Melbourne.

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

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

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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Knox City Council’s new Rainbow Family Playgroup starts on Tuesday 18 October at the Knox Children and Family Centre in Bayswater.

The group will meet weekly as a safe space for LGBTQIA+ families with babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

“Playgroups are a great way for families to meet new friends and access parenting information and support,” Knox City Council said.

“Playgroups help children develop their social skills and confidence, extend their language and learn early literacy through words, books and stories.”

The playground will run from 9.30am to 11.30am every Tuesday.

The playgroup is free to join and families can register at stickytickets.com.au/nztdc/ knox_rainbow_family_playgroup_lgbtqia_ families.aspx

mailcommunity.com.au

HISTORY

Yarra Glen’s first doctor Looking

back Helen Mann

Yarra Glen & District Living & Learning Centre History Group This is part two of the Looking Back column’s deep dive into Yarra Glen’s first doctor, following on from last week.

Dr Chapman was called to attend accidents over a wide area. In April 1903 the head teacher of the Toolangi State School was out riding. The stirrup leather gave way and she was thrown heavily to the ground. The Doctor found that besides a severe shaking, her right arm was both broken and sprained. The State School was closed for a month as a result. Accidents with horses were very common being so much part of daily life in the country. The two-yearold son of Mr J. Mitchell of Dixons Creek was kicked on the forehead by a horse. Dr Chapman applied eight stitches and dressed the wound.

During summer snake bites were quite frequent but were usually dealt with promptly and successfully. The sons of the Shire Overseer, William Clements, were crossing a paddock one summer day in January 1905. Roy Clements, about 25, was bitten on the leg but did not know what had bitten him. His brother tied up his leg and went to a neighbour, Mr Smedley, for assistance. Mr Smedley drove the boys to the doctor, who found the tell-tale punctures of a snakebite. Dr Chapman ‘injected morphia, and Roy was able to leave for

Yarra Glen and District Historical Society is based out of the Yarra Glen Living and Learning Centre.

Picture: ON FILE home, and up to time of writing (a week later) was doing well.’

Next summer it was reported that Jack Scott was bitten by a snake. He ‘was putting the horses out, and stepped on the snake, which bit him on the foot. He was treated by Mr. (sic)

Chapman, who was five hours attending him.

The article states that ‘ten months ago the same boy was bitten by a snake while he was asleep in bed.’

Those who needed operations continued to go to Melbourne hospitals because there were

none closer. Mrs Christensen of Clear Hills … had an operation of a most delicate character performed upon her …recently for an internal complaint.

Being a prominent figure in the local community the health and well-being of Charlie Bath was frequently reported. In August 1905 he suffered ptomaine poisoning after eating salmon which had been left in an open tin for 2½ hours. He was immediately given a “stiff dose of carbonate of soda” and Dr Chapman claimed that it saved Charlie’s life. Mr Bath remained in a weakened state for several days.

In September 1906 Dr Chapman’s world began to fall apart. A special meeting of the Eltham Council was held early in that month to consider his suspension as Health Officer ‘on account of the contradictory nature of several reports sent in by him regarding the Yarra Glen railway station and the Christmas Hills State School. His services to the Council ended on 30 September 1906 and Dr. Basil Adam of Lilydale was appointed in his place as Health Officer.

Dr Chapman then appeared in the Lilydale Police Court in November charged with assaulting his wife and sister-in-law at his home in Yarra Glen. Miss Phipps was visiting the Chapmans at her sister’s request. She witnessed the doctor assaulting his wife and, on going to her aid, she too was assaulted. Three neighbours arrived and removed the doctor.

The Chapman family apparently left Yarra Glen soon afterwards.

In December 1906 Dr Henry Vogler placed an announcement in the Evelyn Observer that he had commenced practice at Yarra Glen. He and his family resided in the town for the next 23 years and were active and respected members of the community.

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Call Chris 0412 099 142 24 years in roofing leaks

Yarra Ranges Shire Council (“Council”), acting under Section 206 (1) and Clause 3 of Schedule 10 to the Local Government Act 1989 (“the Act”), proposes to discontinue the unused 721m2 portion of road reserve shown hatched in the plan below (“proposal”) and transfer the land to the abutting property owner at 2 Edward Street, Healesville.

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Following consideration of submissions Council may resolve to discontinue the road as proposed, discontinue a part of the road or not discontinue the road.

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Persons making a written submission to Council are advised that details of their submission (excluding submitter’s names and addresses) will be included in a report to Council at the meeting held to consider submissions.

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In accordance with Section 223 of the Act, any person wishing to make a submission on the proposal must do so in writing by Wednesday 9 November 2022.

Email: mail@yarraranges.vic.gov.au Post: Yarra Ranges Council, PO Box, Lilydale 3140 Hand Deliver: At any of Council’s Community Links

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Further information on the proposal can be obtained from Melissa Lee, telephone 1300 368 333.

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MAIL 41

SPORT

Players on Monbulk cricket ground on Saturday 8 October.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Great start for Monbulk 1st XI - Monbulk 6/156 (J.Creed 51, J.Fraser 39) d Knoxfield 10/107 (A.Powell 3/14, J.Wensley 3/25, K.Snyman 2./19, S.Cosstick 2/20) With all other senior and junior cricket cancelled due to poor / wet conditions of most grounds, it was only our 1st XI that got to play on the weekend.

We played Knoxfield in a match that was switched to a home game due to soggy Carrington Park.

A good crowd enjoyed the perfect start for the Hawks as we moved up to the Norm Reeves Shield. Thanks to everyone who came and supported the 1st XI. Batting first, Justin Creed dominated the first half of the innings making a magnificent 51 off 70 balls, which included 10 boundaries.

The score was 63 when he departed. A smart 54 run partnership between Jason Fraser (39)

and Tom Watson(15) was crucial before some handy runs from Kyle Snyman, Jim Fenby, and Aaron Powell towards the end of our innings took our score to 6/155 from our 40 overs.

In reply, Knoxfield were bowled out for 107 in the 30th over.

The team bowled and fielded brilliantly continuing their good form from last years Decoite Grand Final.

Coach Snyman tied them up early bowling 8 straight overs at the start for his 2/19.

Joel Wensley came on first change and had the perfect start to his season, taking a wicket with his first ball before removing the dangerous Buckland to have 2/0 in his first over.

Shane Cosstick 2/20 and skipper Aaron Powell 3/14 finished off a great bowling performance.

Four catches to Jason Fraser in the gully was also a highlight.

Justin Creed made 51 including 10 boundaries.

Joel Wensley took 3/25 including 2/0 in his first over.

Boronia Bowls Club receives cash splash Solid start to season

By Parker McKenzie

A local bowls club making a big push to be more sustainable has received a $24,025 grant from the state government for the installation of a solar system, lighting upgrades, and the replacement of old gas systems and kitchen equipment.

Boronia Bowls Club is one of 88 community groups to receive a grant to upgrade or install solar panels and renewable energy batteries through the Community Climate Change and Energy Action program.

Director of Boronia Bowls Club Richard McGregor said the solar panels would save the club around $4,000 a year.

“We have to have the installation done in the first week of November and then it takes three weeks to finish all the paperwork,” he said.

“We hope to have it up and functioning by the first week of December.”

Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio, who visited the club to announce the grant, said the program brings the state closer to the goal of reducing Victoria’s emissions by 50 per cent by 2030.

“We’re giving community groups like kindergartens, sports clubs and cultural groups the opportunity to reduce their energy costs by upgrading their facilities with simple switches which save money and slash emission,” she said.

“We’re helping community groups reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by over 4,400 tonnes per year.”

Mr McGregor said the solar panels are just one of several initiatives at the club to be more sustainable and energy efficient.

“We’re replacing and rejuvenating all our heating and air conditioning, which has been done. We’re replacing our fridges because they’re very old and they were very expensive to run,” he said.

“We’re also putting in new lights for both 42 MAIL

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Tuesday, 11 October, 2022

Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio and Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor visited the club to announce the grant funding.

Picture: SUPPLIED greens because we had a very old system.

People can’t even remember when it was put in and that’s bad when most of our people are fairly old themselves.”

The upgrades include funding for the installation of the 15kW solar PV system, lighting upgrades from fluoro to LED, replacing the gas heating and evaporative cooling systems with electric alternatives and replacing a refrigeration unit.

Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor said he was “stoked that Boronia Bowls Club was provided this grant to not just help cut down on emis-

sions, but also slash their energy bills, so they can put more money back into the club and the members.”

Mr McGregor said initiatives like the installation of solar panels are a “central part of living today” and “should have been done years ago.”

“Our governments have to be a little bit faster on moving and broader thinking,” he said.

“It’s a slow process I’m afraid within the government departments.”

With poor weather in the lead up, only the Norm Reeves Shield fixture was able to be played on the weekend.

Upwey-Tecoma Cricket Club’s 1st XI travelled down the road to the reigning premier Lysterfield to kick off their season.

Captain Jackson Waters, won the coin toss and elected to bat.

It was a solid start by the opening pair of Hunter Greenall and Andrew Evans, making it to 0/30 off 9 overs before the loss of Greenall for 20 sparked a top-order collapse. From 0/30, UpweyTecoma crashed to 5/54 and never really recovered, all out for 92 in the 38th over.

It was going to take something special to defend the small total against a strong opposition and Upwey-Tecoma had the perfect start.

Opening bowlers Cam Wheeler and Steve Collard claimed an early scalp each to have the Beavers wobbling at 2/15. However, that was to be the extent of Upwey-Tecoma’s joy with the ball.

Lysterfield didn’t lose another wicket in the chase to cruise to a commanding victory, sending a strong message that they’ll again be the team to beat in 2022/23.

Upwey-Tecoma’s next fixture is at home to The Basin this Saturday, as we look to bounce back and claim our first win for the campaign. Hopefully the weather is kind and we can get all grades on the field.

Lysterfield 2/92 (N.Walsh 53*) def Upwey-Tecoma 92 (B.Walsh 3/10) mailcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Practice makes perfect

By Jamie Strudley Close to record numbers of participating athletes made the most of some calm conditions for round two of the 2022-23 little athletics season at Yarra Ranges Athletics (YRA). Athletes and parents alike enjoyed some fantastic track and field competition, with the Under 6 athletes also getting some “on track” games as well.

Highlights of the day were the sight of nearly 200 athletes warming up, a big shout out to YRA’s open age athletes for running the warm up, and of all the smiling faces as the athletes ran, jumped and threw for two hours of fun.

Thanks to all the parents who donned a Hi Viz Vest and helped out, your help makes the mornings run faster, smoother and definitely more fun for the athletes.

Information and warm up starts at 8.45am ready for the start of competition at 9.00am. If you, or someone you know, wants to join in the fun registration is at www.lavic.com.au.

YRA started the summer campaign with a resounding team win in the opening round of the AVSL season. Welcome to new members Kristan Nackovski and Bradley McMeeken and a welcome back to returning members Mitch Mullins and Liam Russell. Individual results were: Women 100m: Ashleigh Rooke 13.81; Ciara Willey 15.22 200m: Sasha Carroll 30.66; 400m: Kristina Nackovski 68.76; Ciara Willey 73.51; 800m: Kristina Nackovski 2:30.3h; Rori Jones 2:31.5h; Zoe Clarke 2:31.6h ; Sasha Carroll 2:50.3h; 1500m: Olivia Twining 4:47.2h; Ciara Willey 6:12.2h; Emilie Garside 7:54.2h; 1500m Walk: Emilie Garside 9:54.2h; Discus: Ashleigh Rooke 30.53m; Meg Sparkes

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27.82m; Hayley Wilkins 22.14m;

Hayley Wilkins 32.89m; Ashleigh · Javelin: Rooke 27.01m; Meg Sparkes 15.79m; Sarah Ebbels 36.73m; Anne-Marie · Hammer: Ebbels 22.88m; Kathi Hewitson 22.67m; Put: Sarah Ebbels 7.41m; Anne-Marie · Shot Ebbels 6.17m; Kathi Hewitson 6.10m; · Long Jump: Ciara Willey 3.09m; Men · 100m: Michael Willey 14.09 Mitchell Mullens 24.57; Oliver Dun· 200m: can 25.60; Liam Russell 25.85; Ky Harris 26.20 ; Joseph Johnston 28.45; Craig Hewitson 29.19; Bradley McMeeken 39.33; 400m: Michael Willey 69.90; 800m: Noah Wright 2:06.5h; Ky Harris 2:17.9h; Mitchell Pointon 2:26.8h; Craig Hewitson 2:44.6h; Bradley McMeeken 3:30.9h; 1500m: Michael Willey 5:25.4h; Discus: Ash Almond 32.02m; Shot Put: Craig Hewitson 6.86m; Hammer: Ash Almond 18.77m; Javelin: Ash Almond 45.41m; Shot Put: Ash Almond 8.28m; High Jump: Oliver Duncan 1.58m; Triple Jump: Liam Russell 10.78m; Long Jump: Michael Willey 3.22m; New members and any 13yo+ athletes wanting to test their track and field skills can join at www.athsvic.org.au. Send enquires to join@yarrarangesathletics.org.au Training is available to all club members on Tuesday & Thursday evenings from 5.30pm and on Thursday afternoons from 4.00pm for our Under 12 athletes.

Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability. For information on training, how to join or trial, photos, results and updated news, visit the website at yarrarangesathletics.org.au or check us out on Facebook. Run, Jump, Throw…too easy!

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Whether long distance running, shot put, long jump or sprints, there was something for everyone.

Competition faces and concentration were all part of the fun for these little aths taking to the track.

Yarra Ranges’ little athletes were able to practice and learn all things like long jump over the weekend.

Pictures: SASKIA GRANGER

Gun Club celebrates shooting bid win for Comm Games

By Callum Ludwig The Victorian Government has officially included shooting as part of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Regional Victoria as a standard and Para event.

The news comes as the Melbourne Gun Club (MGC) in Yering welcomed another 6 para-shooters to test out the newly upgraded facilities to create a more friendly environment for para-athletes.

Melbourne Gun Club Treasurer Ben Reed said it’s fabulous to hear that shooting has been confirmed as an event for the Games, which he is really excited to see in the state.

“I think the flow on effects for Victoria and even Australia will be quite phenomenal, especially considering we’ll be hosting the Olympic Games further down the track in Queensland, it’s a real win-win for everyone,” he said.

“The inclusion of shooting will give the [Melbourne Gun] Club great exposure. Now that it’s incorporated into the Games, people will become more aware of clay target shooting, and not only clay target shooting, but small ball and pistol/air pistol shooting as well, which will likely see an increase in people participating in the sport, juniors and seniors alike.”

The MGC threw their support behind Shooting Australia’s ‘Shoot for the Games 2026’ bid to incorporate Shooting as an event at the Games back in July. The design of their new para-frendly facilities has been in the works for nearly a year and could see them as an attractive option to host events in 2026.

Mr Reed said MGC’s most recent Come N’ Try session was fully booked.

“We actually had more people who wished to attend but we are mindful of the time it takes to cater to everyone. We’ve had such amazing feedback, not just from the public, but from the individuals who are coming to try shooting, a reoccurring comment from nearly all of them is that there’s nothing that they can really do and normally they are really left out of sports,” he said. mailcommunity.com.au

A para shooter takes aim at a Melbourne Gun Club Come ‘N Try session.

“It offers them a chance to be involved at a club, sit in the club room with members and speak to like-minded individuals. Last week they were shocked at how much everyone at the club engages with them and they said ‘We’ve never come across anything like this, it’s amazing how well you are looking after them.’ which was sad but fantastic at the same time.”

Golf, 3x3 Basketball, 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball, Coastal Rowing, BMX Racing, Mountain Bike Cross Country, Track Cycling and Para-Cycling Track were the other sports added alongside shooting in Phase 2, with Coastal Rowing, Golf and BMX making their Commonwealth Games debut.

Mr Reed said it can be a really lonely and isolated world for individuals with a disability and hopefully the club continues to be an option for them.

“Those who visits always say ‘When can

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Smiles aplenty when trying out the new facilities. we come back?’ and then they turn up with a friend at training events so they can shoot and even their friends are amazed. For their well-being, it’s a big tick psychologically wise and it gets them out and about which is critical,” he said.

“We would love to bring the Games to Yering and the Yarra Valley. It is still up in the air, but if we’re successful with that, it could be very positive for our new facility that we’ve had designed as well to coincide so fingers crossed.”

Tuesday, 11 October, 2022

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MAIL 43

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