Mail - Upper Yarra Star Mail - 10th January 2023

Upper Yarra

Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

Mail

Coldstream pump track a hit in the holidays

Family devastated by stolen vehicle

Looking back at the best 2022 news stories

Top sport achievements from last year

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INSIDE

PAGE 30

A Star News Group Publication

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12496493-NG22-21

Rage over roads Mail ISSUE OF THE YEAR

2022 This collision reignited concerns about the safety of the Warburton Highway in Seville East.

Residents of the Yarra Ranges have been outraged about the state of local roads throughout 2022, with safety concerns and the deteriorating conditions of arterial highways among their major gripes.

Road concerns flooded headlines, with roads being named the issue of the year as long-term concerns flared up again, while others seemed to make a step forward.

Among some of the community campaigns were McMahons Creek residents awaiting construction of a pedestrian bridge, Healesville residents petitioning for safety measures at key intersections and Seville East concerns reigniting by a serious crash.

The battle also continued for the Coldstream Killara Road and Maroondah Highway intersection, as residents say the federal funded project needs to reach a ‘turning point’.

Legally blind Wesburn resident Marie Plueger also pointed out the concerns for pedestrians and those affected by disability in the community, as she told Star Mail about her

A large truck flies past Healesville residents at the concerning blind corner, right by the only suitable place to cross to reach the petrol station or bus stops.

Pictures: ON FILE

Speed reductions and one lane in place due to the Warburton Highway landslip.

difficulties crossing the Warburton Highway safely in August.

It wasn’t just community campaigns, road issues were ongoing with potholes a plenty causing costly damage.

Warburton and Yarra Glen residents saw the

includes Council’s Roads for Community Initiative, with the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts slating budget pressures as the reason.

Turn to pages 9-11 to read more on the major road issues for the year

worst of the poor weather affecting roads with floods causing landslips and road closures.

Despite the deteriorating state of our thoroughfares, improvements to residential roads are now in jeopardy after the federal government’s decision to scrap the $300m road sealing project in the 2022-23 budget which

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NEWS

IN BRIEF

High angle rescue

By Mikayla Van Loon Emergency service crews were called to a high angle rescue on the Black Spur in Fernshaw early on Tuesday evening after a car drove off the embankment, hitting a tree.

Just after 6pm, VicEmergency reported having 15 vehicles responding to the crash, including SES, CFA, Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria.

SES units from Healesville and Marysville were dispatched, alongside technical rescue teams from Monbulk CFA and Wandin Fire Brigade.

The four passengers from Meadow Heights, including two children, were able to exit the vehicle safely but required transport to hospital for minor injuries.

Ambulance Victoria confirmed two preschool aged girls and a woman in her late 30’s were taken to Box Hill Hospital in a stable condition with minor upper body injuries. A man in his early 40’s was also taken to Maroondah Public Hospital in a stable condition with upper body injuries.

While investigations into the exact cause of the incident are ongoing, a Victoria Police spokesperson said “It’s understood a Kia wagon drove off an embankment and crashed into a tree on Maroondah Highway just after 6pm”

Emergency service crews were required after a car drove off the embankment on Maroondah Highway/Black Spur in Fernshaw on Tuesday 3 January.

Picture: MARYSVILLE SES on Tuesday 3 January.

“The incident was declared under control at 18:06, with crews remaining on scene to maintain safety of the area,” a CFA spokesperson said.

Due to the location of the crash, holiday traffic was banked up for over an hour as commuters waited for the scene to be made safe.

“Very heavy traffic from holiday crowds and local commuters made for a busy scene; at one stage, traffic extended from Dom Dom Picnic Ground to Fernshaw Reserve, with up to 100 additional vehicles parked up in car parks to ease congestion,” Marysville SES posted to social media.

Once the patients were transported to hospital, a single lane was able to reopen until a tow truck arrived to remove the car from embankment.

“The scene was finally cleared around 8.30pm. Thanks to all drivers who waited patiently in the long queue, and who followed our requests to move at low speeds while we worked,” Marysville SES said.

“The roads will continue to be extremely busy for coming weeks; please slow down, leave a safe distance, and be patient with other road users. Importantly, ensure you remain focused on the road ahead and stay alert to your surroundings.”

Anyone with information, dash cam vision or anyone who witnessed the crash is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.

How to avoid the threat of grassfires

By Callum Ludwig While it has seemed to have taken an age to arrive, hot weather is finally upon us with temperatures above 30 degrees finally starting to come about more regularly.

However, a hotter and drier environment is the perfect condition for a fast-spreading grassfire and it is important to be prepared.

Captain of the Yellingbo CFA Jeremy Hardy said it is important to be aware.

“We are certainly seeing longer grass start to really dry out now after having lots of rain, so there definitely is some potential for grass fires, which can spread into the bush as well,” he said.

“People can still burn off at the moment, there is no word at this stage as to when we’ll enter the fire danger period here in the Yarra Ranges, so people need to be conscious of their burns.”

None of the Yarra Ranges, Knox, Maroondah or Cardinia municipalities has entered a Fire Danger Period yet this summer. Neighbouring municipality Nillumbik entered a short period that ended on Thursday 5 January.

Mr Hardy said there are a number of things to keep in mind if you are planning a burn-off.

“Make sure the grass around the burn has been cut to a practical level, make sure you’ve got water available around the areas where you’re burning off and don’t burn off

Gas leak in Yarra Glen Yarra Glen Fire Brigade was supported by Coldstream and Montrose CFA after a car was spotted leaking gas on Saturday 7 January.

Montrose CFA’s flare-off equipment was required, used in situations where an LPG tank has been damaged; where there is an uncontrollable gas leak; or when a LPG fuelled vehicle has been involved in an accident, burning it off into the atmosphere in a safe manner to remove the potential for an explosion.

Drivers avoid injury after Millgrove collision CFA, Ambulance Victoria and Victoria Police crews were called to a car accident involving two vehicles on the Warburton Highway at Millgrove at 12.45pm on Thursday 5 January.

Initial reports thought a vehicle may have been on fire, with two CFA vehicles attending the scene. Upon arrival, the scene was largely safe and no treatment or transport was required from Ambulance Victoria.

The situation was under control at 12.53pm.

Road deaths increased in 2022 Tragically 240 people lost their lives on Victorian roads in 2022 – an increase on the 233 deaths last year, but the fourth lowest since TAC records began, including the pandemicaffected record low of 211 in 2020.

Sadly, motorists on regional roads remain a significant concern with 134 people dying in country areas compared with 119 in 2021 – while metropolitan road deaths dropped from 114 in 2021 to 106 in 2022.

More than two-thirds of regional fatalities occurred on 100-110km/h roads. Crashes on rural high-speed roads continue to be too frequent, where the combination of high speeds and motorists travelling longer distances mean consequences are often more severe when something goes wrong.

There was a decline in driver and passenger deaths (126 down from 147) – however, 27 per cent of people who died in a vehicle were not wearing a seatbelt. Sadly, vulnerable road users including motorcyclist (57 up from 43) and pedestrian (44 up from 29) fatalities increased year-on-year.

Newer, more secure Victorian number plates

Grassfires can spread quickly, especially in hot and dry conditions. under trees,” he said.

“The other thing to keep in mind is the unpredictable weather at the moment where we are having storms, with lightning strikes and things like that. If people do have dried patches of grass, it could be prone to catching fire if there is a lightning strike.”

Grassfires can travel up to 25 km per hour and pulse even faster over short distances.

Mr Hardy urged everyone to be well aware of their fire plans.

“Contact 000 straight away, and then put your fire plan into place and make sure you have had everything ready beforehand, such

Picture: ON FILE

as an adequate water supply,” he said.

“If burning off, make sure you register your burn off on the hotline or the website and make sure when you pit it out, that the fire is cold to the touch. If operating machinery, or completing tasks such as welding or grinding, have water or a fire extinguisher nearby as sparks can cause the grass to ignite. Perhaps consider avoiding those tasks in hot conditions.”

Making sure machinery is free from any faults and mechanical defects that could start a fire and are fitted with an approved spark arrestor can help prevent accidental fires.

A new in-built security feature is set to be included in general-issue number plates, which will reduce crime and number plate theft.

Rolling out from Friday, 30 December, the Directional Security Markings embedded in the surface of new general issue number plates provides an extra level of authentication, making it harder for them to be illegally copied.

The new design features a ‘VIC’ logo within a small circle – with the security markings unable to be removed by chemical or physical means from the sheeting or finished sticker without causing irreparable damage to the reflective system.

This new style plate aims to stop criminals creating duplicate number plates and placing them on a vehicle of the same make and model as the original, avoiding apprehension for any crimes they commit while driving that vehicle.

The markings are similar to holograms embedded in the production of Australian banknotes and will ensure that unauthorised reproduction of number plates is impossible.

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MAIL 3

NEWS

Carve it up in Coldstream

By Callum Ludwig The Coldstream Station Pump Track opened up on Tuesday 20 December 2022 and has been a hit with families over the holiday period.

The just under $1.1 million track took into account feedback from the community and particularly Coldstream Primary School students prior to the final design being chosen in August last year.

Mooroolbark resident John Taylor and his son Harlan came to test out the track and he said there were a few other places to ride around the Yarra Ranges, but they were becoming increasingly busy.

“The more venues we have, it gives kids a bit of a chance to learn in a quieter environment where there’s less pressure with crowds, so the more venues the better I think,” he said.

“It’s great to have easily accessible venues and for them to be free is also helpful with how expensive everything is, getting kids out of the house and active. A bit of shelter from the sun and a few amenities like a bubble tap and bins would be nice to see installed.”

Works are not yet done, with the construction of a public toilet, signage installation, landscaping works, installation of park furniture and trail connections throughout the reserve and to the Yarra Valley Trail all still to come in the early months of this year.

Currently, the unsealed Mt Evelyn pump track was the only designated pump track in the Yarra Ranges before the sealed Coldstream track’s opening but the Wesburn Park Pump Track is currently in line for a detailed design stage throughout the first few months of 2023.

The pump track can be found at 1A Coldstream West Road, Coldstream and can be reached by turning onto Station Street from the Maroondah Highway.

271 responses were received in the con-

Mooroolbark resident John Taylor helps prepare his son Harlan for his first ride on the track.

Harlan enjoying the Coldstream Station Pump Track. sultation process, with around 50 per cent of respondents being Yarra Ranges residents, including 9.38 per cent from Coldstream.

Pictures: CALLUM LUDWIG

From the feedback, Yarra Ranges Council added a beginner loop and made improved efforts to make sure the track is more accessible,

The track has sections suitable for beginner, intermediate and advanced riders. such as by advocating for a pedestrian crossing along Maroondah Highway to provide safer on-foot access.

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NEWS

Search for stolen vehicle

By Callum Ludwig The day you purchase your first car is a special one, thinking of all of the adventures and freedoms it will bring, with the expenses and maintenance far from the forefront of your mind at that moment.

Young Millgrove resident Bailey King’s Nissan Patrol is his pride and joy, but was recently stolen from out the front of his home on the night of Monday 2 January.

Bailey had just returned home from a trip to Eildon and was yet to fully unpack, meaning a lot of valuables were also still inside the car.

Mr King said he went to go to the shops the next morning only to discover his car was no longer on the nature strip.

“I have the only set of keys for it, no one else had done anything with it and the keys were still there so I knew that someone had stolen it. The last time I had seen it was at about 7pm the night before when I took the swag off the top of it because it was supposed to rain,” he said.

“There’s not many in that colour in the area, dark grey on the bottom half and black on the top half. It also has big tyres, a roof rack, spotties (spotlights), a front bar and sidesteps. Not many people have spotties in front of the roof racks on top of where the windscreen ends, there are four there, which is something a bit different about it.”

The car also could be identified by a five to six-inch curved crack in the windscreen behind the rearview mirror, a slightly smashed driver’s side mirror and some of the paint scratched off on the driver’s side and steps from four-wheel driving.

Mr King said the car means quite a lot to him.

“I saved up my own money and bought it after a long while, and have done quite a bit to

Bailey King is devastated without the car he saved up for years for.

The stolen Nissan Patrol with registration reading ATN-711. the car. Nowadays I go out every weekend and if not every second weekend with it. I love taking it out into the bush and into nature, and I have a lot of memories with it already even if I haven’t had it for long,” he said.

“I did pretty much any odd job I could get for a bit of cash here and there, working weekends and working overtime as a chimney sweep and wood heater installer quite hard

Pictures: SUPPLIED

and really budgeted to get the car.”

Mr King is the oldest of four children in the house at 19 years old and has taken on responsibilities as the ‘man of the house’ for a number of years. He has often been the one to help take his brothers to their sports and activities since he bought his car. He also contributes to household bills and the car was not insured for theft, meaning he is worried about how much

he would have to save to replace his lost Patrol.

Bailey’s mum Melanie King said it’s not just the financial value of the car to Bailey, but the emotional value as well.

“That car already has a lot of sentimental value, a lot of memories made driving it as he learnt the ropes. It’s really unfortunate for a hardworking young bloke who is trying to try to help his family out, provide memories and give himself a little something, that he loses out,” she said.

“We’ve done a lot of family trips, taking his brothers out and his mum out, so it has impacted all of us. It was usually parked up right near the gate where we thought it was secure around here, but we know different now. We’ve learned a valuable lesson here.”

The number plate reads ATN-711. Anyone with information on where Mr King’s car may be is urged to contact the Warburton Police Station at (03) 5966 2006.

ALL - NEW

OUTLANDER 12 trees were damaged at McKenzie Reserve in Yarra Glen.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Vandals destroy trees at McKenzie Reserve

By Callum Ludwig

mailcommunity.com.au

TEST DRIVE NOW Over 20 trees have been targeted by vandals in the area in the last 18 months. similarly being damaged another time.

“Council will work to replace the vandalised trees and explore planting methods that discourage opportunistic vandalism, particularly in our parks and reserves,” said Mr Murton.

“We encourage anyone with information about the vandalism to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000.”

Another comment also claimed a nearby bin had been set on fire as well.

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With warm weather arriving, it is the perfect time to get out and enjoy our public parks and spaces and make the most of the sunshine.

Unfortunately, Yarra Glen residents have been disappointed to find a number of young trees torn out of the ground or damaged at the McKenzie Reserve, and it isn’t the first time.

Acting Director of Environment and Infrastructure at Yarra Ranges Council, Phil Murton said Council is committed to planting trees to beautify our public spaces, improve community health and wellbeing and benefit the environment.

“We filed a police report on Friday, 6 January, regarding 12 trees damaged in McKenzie Reserve in Yarra Glen,” he said.

“Over the last 18 months, about 20 trees have been vandalised or damaged in the park, which is extremely disappointing.”

Residents took to Facebook to express their annoyance at the issue, with the trees just beginning to establish themselves after

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MAIL 5

NEWS

Outrage over quota rise

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The central district quota, including the Yarra Ranges, has increased by 26 per cent.

Program quota if necessary,” the spokesperson said.

The report notes that in most other states

quotas of at least 15 per cent of the estimated abundance is set, with New South Wales just one to have this percentage of takings.

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has increased for 2023 reflecting a significant increase in the estimated kangaroo population. The population figure is a conservative estimate of the total kangaroo population as heavily forested areas of Victoria weren’t included in the survey,” a Victorian government spokesperson said.

“The survey is undertaken in a scientifically rigorous manner - while scientists from the Arthur Rylah Institute acknowledged the localised impacts of flooding on wildlife, there is no evidence of significant impacts on the statewide kangaroo population.”

Local Aboriginal Elder Aunty Janet TurpieJohnstone, who sits on the board of the Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place, is a lecturer in Aboriginal Art and Culture and who has conducted research into human relationships to Country, condemns the “indiscriminate slaughter” of sacred totem animals deeply linked to Aboriginal culture.

“As an Aboriginal Elder, plus researcher/ academic, I totally abhor the way ongoing invasive colonists have taken this Country and her creatures and absolutely destroyed the very spirit of this land and harmed our Kin the Kangaroos,” she said.

According to DEECA, the KHP quota has been designed in a way so it can be adjusted throughout the year if needed, as well as the potential for harvest zones to be closed off if deemed necessary.

“DEECA will continue to monitor levels of kangaroo control throughout 2023 and will make changes to the Kangaroo Harvesting

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The Victorian Kangaroo Alliance, who was instrumental in the safe relocation of the Kinley Kangas is outraged by the 30 per cent increase in kangaroo harvesting quotas.

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The Victorian government has released the 2023 kangaroo harvesting quota report seeing a near 30 per cent increase in the total number of kangaroos able to be culled this year.

In the central district, including the Yarra Ranges, the total take of kangaroos allowed, under both the kangaroo harvesting (KHP) and the authority to control wildlife (ATCW) programs, is 82,050, an increase from 65,050.

This 26 per cent increase in the central district is inline with the 27 per cent increase overall across the state, which will see the total number of eastern and western grey kangaroos harvested raised to 236,350 from 185,850.

The Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research conducted an aerial survey of kangaroo populations on behalf of the Department of Environment, Land, Water, and Planning (DELWP) during September and October last year within the seven harvest zones.

Releasing the report just before the turn of the new year on 28 December, it indicates an estimated abundance of grey kangaroos in non-forested areas to be 24 per cent higher than the 2020 count.

“The estimated total abundance of grey kangaroos within the seven harvest management zones was 2,363,850,” the report reads.

“The annual total recommended take for 2023 was set at 10 per cent of the estimated abundance, separately for each harvest zone.”

This has left local environmentalist groups and kangaroo activists devastated by the increase in the KHP and ATCW permits.

Victorian Kangaroo Alliance president Alyssa Wormald said she was appalled but not surprised the report was released over the New Year period while wildlife volunteers were taking a break but was even more upset by the quotas.

“Not only are the massive quotas horrific and heartbreaking, they are based on population numbers that are utterly fanciful and take no account of the mass mortality kangaroos suffered during the 2022 floods. The floods don’t even rate a mention,” she said.

“The claim that kangaroo numbers are increasing is completely incongruous with reports we receive from across the state where in many places kangaroo numbers have dwindled since the commercialisation of kangaroo slaughter in Victoria.”

This sentiment was reflected by newly elected Animal Justice Party MP for Northern Victoria Georgie Purcell.

“I’ll always be opposed to killing kangaroos, whether it be one or 100,000 — but this decision is a special kind of a betrayal to our state’s native animals so soon after flooding where populations drowned, starved or became displaced and hit by cars,” she said on social media.

DELWP, now known as the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), said the overall population has increased by 452,300 to approximately 2.3 million and there was no evidence to suggest flooding has impacted the population greatly.

“The maximum kangaroo harvest figure

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NEWS

Assess river quality risks

By Callum Ludwig Hot summer sun finally appears to have arrived in 2023, with temperatures in the thirties seeing swimming spots highly sought after.

The Yarra River is the nearest natural water source for many Yarra Ranges residents, but experts are warning that the river’s quality through Healesville and the Upper Yarra can be poor.

Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) Chief Environmental Scientist, Professor Mark Taylor said better weather will help the improving trend but they still advise people to self-assess. “f the water looks discoloured, or is foaming heavily, or there is odour; if you’re near a drain, river or creek outlet and there’s been rain in the last 48 hours, pick another day to go for a swim,” he said.

“Check the EPA Beach Report and Yarra Watch for twice daily updates.”

The key contaminating concern for the Yarra River is the presence of E coli, of which the accepted safe swimming level is less than 260 organisms per 100ml. According to data from the EPA’s Yarra Watch, both Healesville and Launching Place are considered to have poor water quality in the Yarra River based on historical data, while a bit closer to Melbourne, Warrandyte is generally considered good quality with a low likelihood of stormwater pollution.

Professor Taylor said we have flood waters and some very heavy rainfall from October to December 2022 to blame for poor water quality at the moment.

“October and November 2022 rainfalls were very much above average. But the good news is that we’re expecting an improvement in the weather and with it a return to our usual high levels of water quality performance in the bay,” he said.

Professor Taylor also said swimming in poor water could cause skin irritations or gastro, and if you did feel ill after swimming con-

If the Yarra River is foaming, it is usually a good sign to avoid swimming. sider contacting a health professional.` On October 27 2022, right after the Yarra Ranges were particularly smashed by flooding events in Lilydale, Seville, Coldstream, Yarra Glen and Yarra Junction, an astonishing 6500 E coli value was recorded at Launching Place, as well as 5200 in Healesville and Warrandyte. These are 25 and 20 times more than

Primary care centre to open at Maroondah A priority primary care centre (PPCC) will soon be opening at Maroondah Hospital to give a free alternative to visiting an emergency department (ED).

Premier Daniel Andrews and Acting Minister for Health Colin Brooks visited the recently opened Heidelberg PPCC on Tuesday 3 January to announce that another 12 are on track to open by early February, with 10 already operating across the state.

“Our Priority Primary Care Centres are giving Victorians the care they need – so fewer people end up in an emergency department because it’s the only free healthcare available to them,” Mr Brooks said.

“PPCCs are helping reduce waiting times in our EDs, while giving Victorians another option for non-emergency care – ultimately taking pressure off our hardworking doctors and nurses.”

Maroondah and Box Hill Hospitals will cover the outer eastern suburbs, while regional and city hospitals will also be gaining a PPCC. Nine other PPCCs have opened recently in Ballarat, Dandenong, Epping, Frankston, Glen Waverley, Moonee Ponds, Narre Warren, Prahran and Sunshine.

Working in close partnership with local Primary Health Networks, the ten existing PPCCs have seen more than 6,000 patients – many of whom would otherwise have gone to an ED, despite needing lower-level care.

“Far too many Victorians can’t get in to see a GP at all, let alone one who bulk bills.

It is a basic right that if you’re sick, you should be able get care at no cost – so we’re doing something about that,” Premier Andrews said.

“Our primary care system is broken, and mailcommunity.com.au

A priority primary care centre is set to be opening at Maroondah Hospital in February to reduce pressure on emergency departments. 274922 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS National Cabinet must make reforming the system its priority for 2023 – so every Australian has easy access to the affordable healthcare they deserve.”

The centres accept bookings and walkins, with doctors and nurses on site to treat a range of conditions like mild infections, fractures and burns, in addition to diagnostic services including pathology and medical imaging.

Many of the clinics are operating seven days a week and up to 16 hours a day, even over the summer break.

Early data has shown that the PPCCs are helping to reduce pressure on nearby EDs – with patients’ feedback overwhelmingly positive, due to much shorter wait times.

The Labor Government has put more than $70 million into PPCCs to deliver a free service for all Victorians, with or without a Medicare card.

the agreed safe level.

The latest available recorded data from 14 December 2022 indicates these levels have drastically reduced thankfully, with Launching Place actually having the lowest value of all four sites (Launching Place, Healesville, Warrandyte and Kew) at 500. Healesville recorded 2400 and Warrandyte 1100.

Picture: ON FILE The last time the EPA’s data indicated any site on the Yarra River below the accepted threshold was in the 7 December 2022 readings, where they all had levels below 100.

To find out the water quality rating at any given time, visit www.epa.vic.gov.au/forcommunity/summer-water-quality/waterquality-across-victoria.

Changes made to PBS to ease cost of living pressure The cost of medicines on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) have been reduced by 30 per cent for the first time in 75 years to help ease cost of living pressures.

The new, lower cost of PBS medicines came into effect on New Year’s Day, meaning the most patients will pay for a PBS listed medication is $30, down from $42.50.

This follows Parliament passing legislation late last year to lower the maximum co-payment cost of PBS medicines.

The Pharmacy Guild of Australia’s National President, Professor Trent Twomey, says this will be a big help to some 19 million patients, especially those who have been struggling to afford their medicines.

“In 2019-20 we learnt that 900,000 Australian patients did not get a script filled because they could not afford it,” he said.

“As health professionals, this disturbed us immensely and led to our ‘Affordable Medicines Now’ campaign which pressured both parties to commit to lowering the cost of PBS medicines in the lead up to the last election.

“It’s a credit to our politicians that they listened to those concerns and gave a bipartisan commitment to lower the maximum co-payment for PBS listed medicines after the election.

“January 1 marks a significant date as it will be the first time in the history of the PBS that the general co payment for medicines has come down and not gone up.”

However, Professor Twomey says the campaign to make medicines universally affordable is far from over.

“We are now pushing to lower the maximum co-payment of PBS medicines even further, to $19.

“Reducing the maximum co-payment to $19 will mean an additional 30 per cent of PBS medicines are covered,” Professor Twomey said.

A national survey commissioned by the Pharmacy Guild in 2022 revealed the affordability of healthcare was the biggest hip pocket concern among polled voters.

Cheaper medicines under the PBS and other policy changes have come into effect on January 1.

Picture: FLAVIO BRANCALEONE/AAP PHOTOS Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

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MAIL 7

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12583380-DL02-23

8 MAIL

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Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

mailcommunity.com.au

2022 - ISSUE OF THE YEAR ....

ROADS

Potholes and petitions

By Callum Ludwig Residents of the Yarra Ranges have been outraged about the state of the local roads throughout 2022, with safety concerns and the deteriorating conditions of our arterial highways among their major gripes. Road concerns flooded headlines, with roads being named the issue of the year as long-term concerns flared up again, while others seemed to make a step forward.

Healesville petition goes unanswered The intersection of Crowley, Lalors and Ayres Road in Healesville with the Maroondah Highway is still a concern for Healesville residents, who started an online petition in March.

Eildon MP Cindy McLeish threw her support behind the safety of pedestrians, tabling the concern in Parliament on Tuesday 9 August.

Brian Millane lives on the Maroondah Highway and said given the increase in traffic this year, it’s even more dangerous.

“There’s been even more traffic than we’d expect even in the warmer months and with the new 7-Eleven and more nearing completion, it’s only going to get busier at this end of town. Disappointed and frustrated, are the overarching feelings,” he said.

“The actual levels of the road, which aren’t noticeable when you’re driving, are tripping hazards where there is anywhere between 20 to 40ml difference in height where the surface has been laid and hasn’t been levelled correctly.”Mr Millane, along with Mike Grigg and Barry Alloway contacted VicRoads in 2016 appealing for the 50km/h speed limit to be extended from the town centre. Their application was rejected with VicRoads citing the low crash rates and the absence of schools or school crossings as the reason no change was needed.

Ms McLeish said the Healesville residents need to see progress in making this section of the highway safer.

“Some of the potential solutions included slowing the traffic before the bend, whether with flashing lights that pedestrians can instigate at a particular time or a zebra crossing,” she said.

McMahons Creek Pedestrian Bridge set for reconstruction McMahons Creek residents are eagerly awaiting the reconstruction of the pedestrian bridge on Woods Point Road, to be delivered by Yarra Ranges Council after the State Government committed $754,000 for the project back in March.

Residents along with Eildon MP Cindy McLeish had been campaigning for the project for five years since the original bridge was decommissioned following a structural assessment.

Member of the Reefton McMahons Creek Action group Ian Brownlie said it was encouraging to know that the funding was made.

“It’s not a wide road and to put a pedestrian on there on the road is particularly hazardous with caravans and tourist traffic going through the area. The edge of the bridge also isn’t frequently cleaned, so people can easily slip and fall or have to negotiate uneven surfaces,” he said.

Ms McLeish said it was great to finally get the commitment.

“It had been a long fight and I was supporting the community in pushing for this because it really cut them off and made kids have to walk on the road, it was a dangerous situation,” she said.

“It hasn’t been done yet but hopefully it is delivered promptly, there’ll be big celebrations once it’s finished.”

Crossing desert on Warburton Highway In August, legally blind Wesburn resident Marie Plueger told Star Mail about her difficulties crossing the Warburton Highway safely.

Since 2004, Ms Pleuger has been gradually losing her sight to a genetic disease affecting vision in your direct line of sight. Relying on the bus for her personal travel, she has no crossing to use to safely return to her home Ms Pleuger said having met with VicRoads, they didn’t seem confident about anything happening to resolve the issue in the near future, but that the request has been put ‘into the system’.

Continued page 10 mailcommunity.com.au

A large truck flies past Healesville residents at the concerning blind corner, right by the only suitable place to cross to reach the petrol station or bus stops.

Pictures: ON FILE

ACCOUNTANT POSITION Come and Join our Team!

We are looking for a full time Accountant to manage our growing company and become a valued member of our construction family.

This position requires a minimum of 5 years industry experience and can be based in our Alexandra or Hawthorn Office.

L-R: Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child and Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Tammy Radford travelled to Canberra to appeal to reinstate Roads for Community funding.

The successful applicant will be responsible for managing and the reporting of financial information for the company. The role includes record transactions, compile and analyse data, reporting, audits, budgeting and forecasting.

Please email your resume and expressions of interest to jobs@hedgerconstructions.com.au or use the QR code below to apply by Friday, January 20, 2023.

The bus stop Ms Plueger wishes she could safely cross from.

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Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

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MAIL 9

2022 - ISSUE OF THE YEAR ....

From page 9 “I can’t get home independently on public transport, because I am not prepared to run the gauntlet of Warburton Highway traffic, with my limited vision, that’s travelling up to 80 kilometres an hour or even more when they’re not following the speed limit,” she said.

The nearest signalised pedestrian crossing is in Millgrove, between Hearse Road and Gillis Road. There is also a lack of footpaths between Yarra Junction and Millgrove.

Pricey potholes Potholes were also another major concern on the Warburton Highway throughout 2022, causing costly damage for many a motorist.

Two particular potholes in Woori Yallock were key culprits, with one outside the Tyrepower store and another on the corner of Middleton Drive seeing many motorists head into Tyrepower itself.

Owner of Tyrepower Woori Yallock Marc Bull said cars were continuing to suffer damage throughout the remainder of 2022.

“It definitely slowed a bit, it wasn’t as bad as it was a couple of months ago but we still have a constant stream of cars coming in with pothole damage,” he said.

“Even the ones they are repairing properly, it’s just never going to be fixed, as long as it keeps raining, it will keep happening because there’s just no drainage here.”

Melba and Warburton Highway slated for works In September, it was announced that more than 10 kilometres of the Melba Highway were outlined to undergo rehabilitation and resurfacing works in multiple locations, while sections of the Warburton Highway in Wandin North and Seville were set to undergo significant resurfacing works as part of the State Government’s major regional road maintenance blitz.

In November, the Department of Transport (DoT) released a notice regarding the road situation across Victoria.

“Crews across Victoria have mobilised and

Eildon MP Cindy McLeish (front) and Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child (far left) with McMahons Creek residents at the site of the road bridge.

Picture: SUPPLIED have assessed more than 3,200 roads and have repaired more than 75,100 potholes,” it said.

Ms McLeish said the roads are crumbling.

“We need to make sure that these roads are repaired properly, not just a quick patch, and see some of that spending on roads in our area,” she said.

“I do worry the widespread damage means we will have to wait, but it needs to be fixed, the road needs to be raised at places like Yering because it’s a long-standing issue.”

Warburton Highway landslip limbo A landslip that occurred on the Warburton Highway in October continues to cause delays for residents.

Initially closing the entire highway at the landslip, one lane has since been reopened with temporary lights, speed reductions and traffic controllers to help manage the flow of traffic.

ROADS

Speed reductions and one lane in place due to the Warburton Highway landslip. Picture: ON FILE

The Melba Highway has faced multiple closures this year.

VicRoads’ November update anticipates this arrangement will be in place until February 2023 while they finalise designs and mobilise crews to complete long-term repair works.

Picture: ON FILE

They will keep the community updated with construction dates and any changes to traffic arrangements before works start and will inspect the site everyday and after any heavy rainfall.

Injury, illness or disability?

There are jobs out there. We can help you find them.

Yarra Ranges Council Eligibility

Why choose APM?

You may be eligible for our Disability Employment Services program if you:

When you come to us, you get a dedicated APM employment consultant who will be with you at every step on your job search.

• Have a diagnosed injury, illness or disability • Are aged at least 14 to 65 • Are at or above the minimum legal working age in your state or territory • Are able to work at least eight hours per week (with support when required)

Your employment consultant will get to know your strengths, your challenges, and your goals in life.

You’ll work together to map out a plan which considers your health condition, capabilities, and interests.

• Are an Australian resident

We’ll help you explore job opportunities with businesses and employers in your local community.

• Are not studying full time (unless you’re an eligible school leaver)

Tel: Michelle 0429 906 005 E: michelle.kovacs@apm.net.au

• Are not working at or above your assessed employment capacity You can access APM Disability Employment Services through a referral by Centrelink or by registering with us directly.

12582654-JW51-22

10 MAIL

HARD waste Collection

Coming soon to your area

Leave your materials, including any bundled branches, on your nature strip no earlier than a week before your collection date.

For more information and to check your collection date visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/hardwaste

12585542-MS02-23

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Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

mailcommunity.com.au

2022 - ISSUE OF THE YEAR

This collision reignited concerns about the safety of the Warburton Highway in Seville East.

Picture: ON FILE

Coldstream residents and Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence at the intersection of Killara Road and Maroondah Highway.

Picture: ON FILE Roads For Community funding cut Yarra Ranges Council was left gobsmacked by the federal government’s decision to scrap the $300m road sealing project in the 202223 budget which includes Council’s Roads for Community Initiative.

The Yarra Ranges project received bi-partisan support in the 2019 election which was estimated to offer sealing to approximately 187 km’s of road over a nine-year period.

Mayor Jim Child said Council received funding of $98,577,380 in 2021 to help deliver the first six years of the Roads for the Community program “The program has currently sealed 11km’s of roads and there is another 12km’s in construction or recently awarded to contractors for construction. A further 48km’s of projects are in the design stage, with the community having already been consulted,” he said.

A spokesperson for the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts said some existing infrastructure projects had been reviewed, and in some cases, reduced or discontinued in the October budget, with current economic conditions affecting the delivery of infrastructure investments and increasing the pressure on the Commonwealth budget.

Killara Road and Maroondah Highway needs to reach a ‘turning point’ Coldstream residents are still frustrated by the Maroondah Highway at the Killara Road intersection, with Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence’s proposed funding to duplicate the Maroondah Highway not matched by the re-elected Labor State Government.

Killara Road currently proves to be difficult for Coldstream residents and the Coldstream CFA to turn right out of, with many resorting to turning left and doing a U-turn.

Coldstream CFA Captain Sean Bethel said those invested in the duplication are not feeling very good about its chances.

“During peak times, and especially on a fine weekend, as we have had more recently, it’s extremely hard to get out onto the highway. The proposed duplication and lights would make things easier to turn right out of Killara Road and Station Street and even turning right out of the estate would become a lot safer,” he said.

Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence said the local residents deserve to be safe.

“It was the community that came to me when I was first a candidate and then again once I was elected, concerned about this and when I door knocked Coldstream in 2018, most people were concerned about it, we will keep this campaign up,” she said.

Seville East safety concerns reignited A serious crash on the Warburton Highway at Douthie Road in Seville East reignited the concerns of locals who have been seeking safety measures for years. mailcommunity.com.au

Police believe a truck may have been driving erratically before it collided with a Nissan Patrol on Tuesday 29 November at around 1pm, with the Warburton Highway not reopened until about 6.30pm following the incident.

Seville East resident Joel Supple is the admin of the Seville East Traffic Safety group on Facebook and said the group keep working on the issue until they get what they think is the safest outcome for themselves and their kids.

“We are not going anywhere. We started about five years ago after a number of accidents and the death of one driver, and have made numerous attempts to get VicRoads to address the issue, everything from having plans drawn up, to getting the support of our local MP Bridget Vallence and lobbying to transport ministers,” he said.

Back in 2019 VicRoads conducted an extensive investigation into the stretch of the highway from Peters Road to Douthie Road.

Mr Supple said he feels like politics is being played with people’s lives.

“People aren’t paying attention, but that’s why we need turning lanes, why we need safety barriers, you need safety as much as you can. We feel like we are not being considered important, that our lives aren’t valued,” he said.

VicRoads data collected between 2014 and 2019 has 17 separate accidents noted on the stretch of the Warburton Highway between the Douthie Road and Old Warburton Highway intersections.

Ms Vallence said the statistics are really telling.

“The statistics have demonstrated clearly that there’s a high rate of accidents, and that there have been, tragically, fatalities on this stretch of road. We [The Victorian Liberal Party] made a $5 million pledge to widen the road and make turning lanes to fix this and only a matter of days after there was another serious accident,” she said.

“The Seville CFA, Yarra Ranges Police, other first responders and local residents all tell me how dangerous this stretch of road is and how it needs to be fixed.”

Road rescue rates rise 2022 was a dangerous time to drive, with the number of accidents requiring rescue increasing across the Yarra Ranges.

Healesville SES Unit Controller Andrew Worley said they responded to 25 road rescues this year.

“We definitely noticed an increase after the lockdowns, after people started going out and about a lot more. The roads are back to being almost as busy as they used to and we urge motorists need to drive to their conditions,” he said.

“We’ve had storm and flood events one after and the roads are not in as good condition as they used to be, with hazards left over from these events. Hopefully, we will see those rescue numbers come down in 2023.”

Two pesky potholes that have consistently reoccurred in Woori Yallock (east of township). 289744 Picture: ON FILE

PAYROLL & ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE Come and Join our Team!

We are looking for a motivated person to manage our payroll and accounts receivable and become a valued member of our construction family.

This Permanent Part Time position will be flexibly based in our Alexandra or Hawthorn office.

This well organised person is to be responsible for the efficient, timely and accurate processing of accounts receivable and payroll.

The successful applicant will be comfortable in a small team, able to make decisions independently and a good communicator. A minimum of 2 years’ experience is preferred.

Please email your resume and expressions of interest to jobs@hedgerconstructions.com.au or use the QR code below to apply by Friday, January 20, 2023.

12583229-ET51-22

Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

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MAIL 11

2022 - TOP NEWS STORIES

The year in headlines Staffing disaster The year started off with a surge of rising Covid-19 cases, isolations, a lack of Rapid Antigen Tests and PCR result wait times creating a cocktail for a staffing disaster in the Yarra Ranges.

On 12 January, it was reported many businesses were left struggling to find staff in the midst of the Omicron wave, with shortages being felt across several sectors.

Some businesses imposed reduced hours, unable to trade their usual times with no staff available.

The hospitality sector was already struggling to find staff in the last year however, this was yet another blow upon blow for the industry.

Healesville Hotel director Michael Kennedy said this Covid-19 surge posed different issues than in previous years.

“There are already staff shortages, then we have to have somebody checking vaccinations all the time, that takes another person out of the equation, and then you add in isolation and public health orders and all of a sudden you’re really running out of staff,” Mr Kennedy said.

Courageous duo Just before Christmas in 2017, two childhood friends who grew up in Chum Creek were holidaying with their families when a fire broke out at a Port Fairy Caravan Park.

Benjamin Martin and Benjamin Van der Burgt quickly ran to the cabin on fire and started to do all they could to stop the blaze and save surrounding cabins.

Mr Van der Burgt attempted to open the front door, but it was locked, discovering a teenage girl barricaded inside.

Mr Martin grabbed a nearby hose and began to douse the fire, as another man arrived to help the pair through several attempts to get inside to save the girl.

The men’s efforts didn’t go unnoticed and the Senior Sergeant involved in the case nominated them for a Bravery Medal.

They were announced as Bravery Medal recipients in 2021 and were awarded the medal during a ceremony on Thursday 3 February by the Victorian Governor Honourable Linda Dessau AC at Government House.

Snake bite victim saved A Melbourne Water worker was winched through the air after suffering a snake bite in difficult terrain just outside Healesville.

Emergency services were called just before 3pm Thursday 3 March to help extract the man in his 20s, who was bitten by a snake on the leg while doing some maintenance work in the catchment area.

Lilydale SES Unit Controller Shaun Caulfield was at the scene and said several rescue options were explored due to the difficulty of the rescue site.

“SES were requested to assist with our mule wheeled stretcher carrier initially, but once AV got on scene, they identified it was actually

Christine Wittkopp, Kai, Asher, Lucius and Sue Marshall enjoyed the visit in the Healesville Hospital garden. about a 40 degree slope that the patient was down,” he said.

Melba statue returns Lilydale’s Dame Nellie Melba returned to prime position at her home in Coldstream, with her life size bronze statue relocated to Coombe Estate in April.

The statue of the female opera singer and one of Australia’s greatest exports was created by artist Peter Corlett and originally placed at NewQuay, Docklands.

But the redevelopment of the inner Melbourne, waterfront suburb saw Melba be removed from her position and put in storage since 2016.

Coombe Yarra Valley managing director Grant Cummin said he had been in conversations with Development Victoria for a number of years about getting Melba moved to Coldstream but the pandemic delayed the process.

“We engaged with the artist, Peter Corlett, who came on site and we decided on a location. His directive was that Melba had to always be in the sun, always be in the light,” Mr Cummin said.

Generous juniors hospital donation Healesville Hospital received a donation from Wandin Yallock Primary School in June in honour of a school staff member and her late husband who died from Leukemia.

Sue Marshall has previously been a teacher, relief teacher and currently runs playgroup, working at the school for 37 years and her husband Jim has always been there to support in other ways.

Ms Marshall said Jim did a lot for the school including as maintenance on the oval and other ways to help out.

Coldstream Post Office Cnr Killara Road and Maroondah Highway Coldstream Supermarket Cnr Killara Road and Maroondah Highway Coldstream Roadrunners Roadhouse Cafe 629 Maroondah Highway Healesville Real Estate Yarra Valley 299 Maroondah Highway Healesville BP Ultimate 66 Maroondah Highway Healesville McKenzie's Tourist Services 13 Old Lilydale Road Healesville Newsagent 195 Maroondah Highway Healesville IGA Supermarket 199 Maroondah Highway Healesville SW Hollis Butcher 209 Maroondah Highway Healesville Sanctuary House Resort Motel 326 Badger Creek Road Healesville Shell Service Station Cnr Harker Street and Maroondah Highway Healesville Coles Supermarket 251 Maroondah Highway Healesville Caltex 370 Maroondah Highway Healesville First National/Mark Gunther 189 Maroondah Highway Healesville Beechworth Bakery 316 Maroondah Highway Launching Place Charlie's Milk Bar 2 Centella Place Launching Place General Store 2200 Warburton Highway Launching Place Caltex Log Cabin Service Station 2000 Warburton Highway Lilydale Shell Service Station 469 Maroondah Highway Lilydale United Petrol Service Station 473 Maroondah Highway

“He did it because he loved the school and out of the goodness of his heart,” Ms Marshall said.

Jim sadly passed away earlier in the year while in end of life care at the Healesville Hospital.

The school and students wanted to do something in his honour and decided that raising a donation for the hospital was a fitting option.

The Junior School Council was given the opportunity to come up with an idea and decided to have a milkshake day, connecting back to one of Jim’s favourite treats.

Out of a school of 122 kids, they were able to raise $200 from the special day.

Kangaroos attacked An illegal attack on a mob of eastern grey Kangaroos in Healesville shocked wildlife carers in June after two animals were found to be shot with arrows.

Wildlife volunteers were first called on Sunday 19 June alerted to one male who was spotted with an arrow sticking out of him and a few days later a female was found dead with an arrow lodged in her back.

Vets for Compassion volunteer Leonie Sorrentino responded to the calls and was shocked by the discovery. “[The female] you’d have to get pretty close to be able to shoot her from the direction of where the arrow went into her back, into her spin,” Ms Sorrentino said.

CFA captain makes history A shuffle of roles at Reefton CFA resulted in Sue Jack becoming the brigade’s very first female captain in July.

Lilydale 7-Eleven Lilydale Cnr Maroondah Highway 7 Cave Hill Road Lilydale Lilydale Village News Agents Lilydale Village Lilydale Coles Supermarket Lilydale Village Lilydale Lilydale Village Lilydale Village Lilydale Lilydale Aged Care 475 Swansea Road Lilydale BP Service Station 87 Warburton Highway Lilydale Eastern Laundries 2/4 Williams Street East Millgrove Newsagency Shop 5/ 3043 Warburton Highway Millgrove Millgrove Licensed Grocers 3039 Warburton Highway Millgrove Millgrove Village Bakery 4/3039 Warburton Highway Seville Woolworths Seville 568 Warburton Highway Seville Woolworths Caltex Service Station 568 Warburton Highway Seville Post Office 634-638 Warburton Highway Wandin North Fast Fuel Wandin 389-391 Warburton Highway Wandin North IGA X-Press Wandin North Plus Liquor 388 Warburton Highway Wandin North Landmark Harcourts Wandin Real Estate 1/362 Warburton Highway Wandin North Wandin Newsagency Shop 18/2 Union Road Warburton IGA Supermarket 3465 Warburton Highway Warburton K G Thomas Ply Ltd Insurance 1/3395 Warburton Highway Warburton The Valley Bakery Warburton 3415 Warburton Highway

Kane Williams walked 100km to support friend Lauren Sneddon. 302981 With a big recruitment drive as the first goal, Ms Jack has been at Reefton CFA for a couple of years having previously been at Warburton and Hillcrest CFA. Ms Jack said Reefton CFA elects a new captain and first, second and possibly third lieutenant every two years.

“We are not a very big brigade, so we’ve taken on double roles. At the moment, I’m the captain and also have the training officer role,” she said.

“I don’t know that I ever aspired to be captain. It was just a role that had to happen and the first lieutenant has done it for the past four years and wanted a break so I put my hand up to give it a go for a couple of years and see how it is. I never even thought about being the first woman.”

Tributes flow for the late Queen Queen Elizabeth II died peacefully at her Balmoral Castle in Scotland on Thursday 8 September, aged 96, after an announcement doctors were concerned for her health.

The news has sent ripples of emotion throughout communities, with a poignant statement from Premier Daniel Andrews saying “very few of us know a world without The Queen in it.”

Memorial services were held including one at the Yarra Valley Anglican Church on Sunday 18 September.

Yarra Glen resident Noel Buchanan was invited to share a New Testament reading while also telling the story of when he saw Queen Elizabeth during the 1954 royal tour.

Mr Buchanan brought to the church the same flags that he was waving at the young Queen when he was nine years old while standing on Princes Bridge in Melbourne

Warburton Shell Service Station 3458 Warburton Highway Warburton Professionals Andrew McMath Real Estate 3371 Warburton Highway Warburton Bell Real Estate 3407 Warburton Highway Wesburn Local Fuel 2835 Warburton Highway Woori Yallock Foodworks Woori Yellock 1/1585 Warburton Highway Woori Yallock Newsagency & Tattslotto Shop 4/ 1585 Warburton Highway Woori Yallock Hillcrest Little Store Great Food 1745 Warburton Highway Woori Yallock Shell Service Station Foodies 1700 Warburton Highway Woori Yallock Australia Post LPO Shop 11 / 1585 Warburton Highway, The Centre Yarra Glen Ritchies IGA Shop 1/38 Bell Street Yarra Glen Caltex Petrol Station 66 Bell Street Yarra Glen Newsagent 32 Bell Street Yarra Glen United Garage 6 Bell Street Yarra Junction Woolworths Supermarket 82-84 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Bottle O 2440 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Bell Real Estate 2457 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Newsagency 2454 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Professionals Andrew McMath Real Estate 2460 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Yarra Junction Community Link 2442-2444 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Gladysdale Bakehouse 2568 Warburton Hwy Yellingbo Central Store 1942 Healesville-Kooweerup Road

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12 MAIL

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Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

mailcommunity.com.au

2022 - TOP NEWS STORIES Support for Lauren In October we meet a Wandin East mum who was struck with the devastating diagnosis of the chronic neurological disease Multiple Sclerosis, or MS. Lauren Sneddon, at the age of only 34, was diagnosed with RRMS, relapse-remitting multiple sclerosis which results in unexpected ‘attacks’ and periods of ‘recovery’ and remission afterwards.

A good friend, Kane Williams, ran 100km to raise awareness and support for her.

Ms Sneddon said she met Mr Williams through her lifelong friend Kim, who she befriended in Year 9.

“She transferred to the same school as I and I remember distinctly that we were in a graphic class and started talking about Big Brother, which was the first ever Big Brother here in Australia, which is how we bonded,” she said.

Warburton Mountain Bike Project decision In November, a landmark decision was handed down, with the proposed Warburton Mountain Bike Destination approved to go ahead by the State Government.

The Minister for Planning Lizzie Blandthorn’s assessment concludes that the majority of the project has acceptable environmental effects, subject to some specific project modifications and an amended environmental management regime.

President of Yarra Ranges Mountain Bikers Andrew Howieson said he was elated at the decision.

“I’m still in shock, to be honest. To have some sort of understanding and clarity, I can’t really put into words how it feels, I’ve never experienced a feeling like this. It’s just brilliant,” he said.

“I’ve been saying to people that I didn’t realise how much of an impact this had on my mental health over the last few years. You get used to carrying around this huge amount of stress, anxiety and uncertainty and forget how much it weighs you down.”

The project’s first feasibility study came way back in 2013 and by December 20 2019, Yarra Ranges Council referred the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination Project to the former Minister for Planning Richard Wynne under the Environment Effects Act 1978. On 21 May 2020, Mr Wynne decided that an environmental effects statement (EES) was required.

Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child said in a way, he was really glad that we’ve gone through this process because the EES was so thorough.

“It not only looked at the environmental impact but the social impact as well. It was a very thorough exercise and the actual inquiry panel has done an extremely good job,” he said.

The Dame Nellie Melba statue returned to Coombe in April.

Sue Jack is Reefton CFA’s first female captain.

Benjamin Martin and Benjamin Van der Burgt received Bravery Medals for rescuing a girl from a fire. mailcommunity.com.au

A Melbourne Water worker was winched through the air after being bitten by a snake.

Noel Buchanan waved these exact flags at Queen Elizabeth II when he was nine years old during her 1954 royal tour.

Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

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MAIL 13

2022 - FLOODS MAKE HEADLINES

Region hit by heavy rain The Yarra Ranges was hit hard by flooding this year, with floods seeming to strike different townships back to back from October into November.

Yarra Glen clubrooms flooded When Yarra Glen was hit hard by floodwaters in mid-October, the clubrooms of the Yarra Glen Football, Netball and Cricket Club were left worse for wear.

Yarra Glen Cricket Club President Kelly Coghlan said sitting in a flood zone is one of the downsides to living in such a beautiful part of the country.

“It has come up much higher than expected this time around, over the top of the deck right in through the clubrooms. We’ve got a hard layer of sludge right throughout the clubrooms and are awaiting an insurance assessor now, but their focus is obviously up north where it should be right now,” she said.

“Yarra Ranges Council’s asset protection group came through today [Thursday 20 October] and at this stage, we have no timeline as to when it might be fixed.”

Saturday 22 October saw a fair bit more rain hit the area, with 11.6mm recorded throughout the day, but luckily any further rain held off.

Ms Coghlan said every time there is heavy rainfall in Yarra Glen for a few days, the township expects to be flooded.

“It’s a yearly event just about, and as much as it can’t really get any worse at the clubrooms, one of the concerns is whether it is safe to start cleaning up or not, and we don’t know whether we will have to do it all again in a week,” she said.

Lilydale, Seville, Coldstream and Mooroolbark smashed The Warburton Highway through Seville did not escape the torrential rain and flash flooding that hit Lilydale and the surrounding area on Tuesday 26 October.

Overall, close to 75mm of rain fell in around an hour and a half, with a five-minute window of rain falling at an astonishing 120mm per hour.

Lilydale SES Unit Controller Shaun Caulfield said the unseasonal rain was one of the heaviest and most intense downpours the region has seen in some time.

“About 40-50 properties have had significant water go through them and are going to have damage to carpets and flooring. We’re lucky at the moment we haven’t had anybody that’s needed to relocate from their residence but it’s going to be a significant repair bill for a lot of those homeowners.”

Lilydale SES responded to 210 jobs including 24 floodwater rescues as a result of the storm cell event.

Mr Caulfield said sadly they did see a lot of people that were still driving on flooded roads.

“The roads were already inundated with water and people were still making choices to drive into deep water, we had one instance of three cars that all driving to the same flooded road and all somehow got stranded,” he said.

Beresford Road and Cave Hill Road, Maroondah Highway outside Yarra Vally Toyota and Swansea Road near Lilydale Lake were the hardest hit spots in Lilydale, with Beenak Road in Wandin North, Warburton Highway through Seville, Ingram Road and Killara Road in Coldstream and Hull Road and Manchester Road in Mooroolbark among the other flooded areas.

Yarra Junction main strip underwater Water rising to over a metre deep in some parts of Yarra Junction flooded buildings, lifted cars and caused widespread damage late into the evening on Thursday October 28 after heavy rain.

Local business owner Ash said when he arrived at his real estate agency, water poured out of the front door when it was opened despite sandbags placed at the entrance.

“It’s a mess, the whole place was full of water,” he said.

“It was pouring out of the power points, the carpet was knee-high with water.”

He pointed out a nearby creek runoff drain that was blocked with debris as a contributing factor in nearby businesses being flooded.

Local resident Glen said he spent an hour clearing the blocked drain and believes it 14 MAIL

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Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

Flooding on the Warburton Highway through Seville. should have been cleared after heavy rains on Tuesday 25 October.

“It wasn’t cleaned for six to 12 months and it wasn’t cleaned after the rain on Tuesday,” he said.

Yarra Ranges Council Director of Environment and Infrastructure Bill Millard said the drain “is owned by Melbourne Water and Council is liaising with them in relation to any support we can offer.”

“Due to the high demand on Council services with homes and businesses inundated, we are working with our contractors and outdoor staff to prioritise work as quickly as we can,” he said.

Upper Yarra SES described the water at the rear carpark as being well over a meter deep in sections. This water then flowed from the rear of the buildings, through the shops and out onto the highway.

One vehicle was lifted off the ground by the water, resulting in it having one set of its wheels on an embankment.

Melbourne Gun Club accessible only by boat Extreme flooding hit the Melbourne Gun Club in Yering in late October, with the clubrooms and grounds having suffered major damage.

Club treasurer Ben Reed said the extent of the damages is unknown but the cost is estimated to be around half a million dollars.

“It’s still only accessible by boat, so we don’t know the full extent but it’s going to be pretty bad because it just went up over a metre in inside,” Mr Reed said.

All of the grounds at the not-for-profit club are completely underwater and all goods are expected to have been lost due to floodwaters.

The club will be closed for several months as a working committee starts to rally volunteers and labourers to prepare for what’s to come.

“I was devastated - everyone has just been in shocked. I’m sure there’s been a few tears with people by themselves, because it’s really just destroyed everything,” he said.

A fundraiser will be launched with a goal of $75,000 – the cost of restoring just one of the grounds and the machinery needed.

The club has eight grounds which are underwater.

Yarra Junction flood recovery Yarra Junction businesses were left reeling after the flooding on Thursday 28 October.

Yarra Junction Medical Centre (YJMC) Practice Manager Alison Dajlan said they face a huge cleanup bill now.

“We’ve lost all of our flooring, had to cut plaster up to 300mm high and had to remove

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Flooding on the Warburton Highway through Seville.

L to R: Dallas Ball, Liam Shore and Geoff Shore needed a boat to make it into the Melbourne Gun Club after flooding. some insulation as well before you even consider the disruption to our services as well,” she said.

“When we heard about it we were absolutely shocked, it’s just heart-wrenching. To think we’d just built it back up again after having no doctors for a while, getting back on our feet and then this happens.”

Ms Dajlan arrived at the clinic at 10am and she and her husband immediately began to enact the emergency response plan.

The nearby Nancy’s of the Valley cafe was also struck hard by flooding, and owner

Emily Davies said she was in the store when it all unfolded.

“We were under about a metre of water from back to front, we lost all of our stock and display products, pretty much all of our refrigeration and electronic equipment and waiting to hear some of our vintage furniture will have to be discarded,” she said.

“At this stage, we will not be able to trade out of this venue till at least the end of the year.

We don’t know how long the repair and refit will take but hoping for the early stages of the New Year.” mailcommunity.com.au

2022 - BEST PICTURES

Artist Bronwyn Ward at Circling the Void exhibit.

It was a beautiful night to spend in Millgrove.

Picture: SUZANNE PHOENIX

287693

L-R: Charlie and Emma Barron taking on tree planting in Yellingbo.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

Snapshots of the year Across 2022 there has been many great photo opportunities for Star Mail.

Here is a selection of some that have stood out among the rest.

Grade three Healesville Primary School student Macey raised donations for a shade sale for the playground.

Picture: RENEE WOOD

A blanket of snow had descended on Mt Donna Buang in spring on Wednesday 2 November.

Picture: JOE BUCKLEY

Petite Ingredient owner Jocelyn Cross among rows of Linaria at the Wandin North farm. 265292

Alex with the toy sword he won at a sideshow game at Lilydale Show. 308936 mailcommunity.com.au

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

John van de Linde at the entry of the pumpkin harvest display. 276769 Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

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MAIL 15

PLACES TO GO, THINGS TO DO

Water Buffalo call Mansfield home.

Meet the White Fallow Deer on your visit to the zoo. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Go wild and visit the zoo and magical place where kids can interact with and hand feed a large variety of animals like the kangaroos and deer and guinea pigs that roam freely.

The zoo is also home to a colony of Meerkats as well as Marmosets and Capuchin monkeys, llamas and alpacas, wombats, a variety of birds including Sooty Owls, water buffalo and antelope.

There are also four magnificent African lions, including two, rare white lions (of only 100 in the world!), and visitors of all ages can experience the thrill of being up close to these majestic creatures on a daily feeding tour of these as well as other animals at the zoo.

It’s an ideal place for large family gatherings with lovely, undercover places to picnic and barbecue. And for a truly unique family experi-

ence, there are gorgeous campsites to spend the whole night under the stars and literally wake up to the sounds of the jungle.

Mansfield Zoo’s Bronwyn and Dave and their dedicated team welcome visitors every day from 10am to 6pm, except for Christmas Day. It’s a perfect way to introduce children to the beauty and diversity of the animal kingdom in a safe, relaxed and picturesque environment.

MANSFIELD ZOO: White Lions

12581805-SN02-23

On a stunning 12 ha property with sweeping views to Mt Buller and beyond is a very special place where Dr Doolittle dreams of talking to the animals regularly come true.

A fabulous day out for the whole family, and one of the best kept secrets of Victoria’s High Country, the Mansfield Zoo is home to all kinds of Australian and exotic animals.

Once inside the gates, discover a surprising

Lion feeding @ 1.30pm (followed by Meerkat feeding) Visitors can feed the Kangaroos, Llamas, Deer, Emus & more!!

Enquire about our ‘Unforgettable Over Night Camping Experience’

Phone 03 5777 3576 1064 Mansfield Woods Point Road, Mansfield www.mansfieldzoo.com.au

Paintball Games 3 Locations - Ballan, Cockatoo, Coldstream

• equipment hire included • low impact markers • BBQ area available Call Daniel 9777 0613 or book online at www.paintballgames.com.au 16 MAIL

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Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

12582810-AI02-23

LOW IMPACT PAINTBALL SUITABLE FOR KIDS 8 YEARS AND OVER IS AVAILABLE

mailcommunity.com.au

PLACES TO GO, THINGS TO DO

Step inside Beechworth Bakery for a relaxing summer lunch.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Bakery manager Kylie looks forward to welcoming you to the bakery.

The perfect place to eat At just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne CBD lies Healesville, in the heart of the Yarra Valley, the perfect escape from city life.

Famed for its wildlife, natural beauty and wineries, there are plenty of things to do in the town and surrounds for families all year round, and each season has its advantages.

Be swept away by the gorgeous scenery, lush forests, cascading vineyards and the charming township.

And then, of course, there’s the Beechworth

Bakery right in the centre of town.

Famous far and wide not only for its food and remarkable customer-service but also for the relaxed family-friendly atmosphere, the bakery has its own spacious carpark out front.

It is often said that the Beechworth Bakery reminds people of their childhood, of “grandma’s kitchen”, of coming home to the scent of freshly baked scones and bread.

Beechworth Bakery offers a huge selection of food, appealing to “sweet-tooths” as well as

those who are after a savoury treat.

There you will find cakes, fresh bread, pastries, slices, as well as a large selection of delicious pies, rolls, quiches, toasted focaccias and freshly made sandwiches.

The display cabinets look amazing filled with beestings, lamingtons, doughnuts, vanilla slices, apple pastries and so much more.

The bakery itself is filled with leather lounges, a double-sided fireplace, and

plenty of tables and chairs, including the front and rear decks.

There’s also a garden complete with picnic tables out the back, situated right on the town’s creek, Grace Burn, with parkland and a spacious playground immediately across.

Whether eating in at Beechworth Bakery or getting your bakery goodies to go for a lovely picnic somewhere, make sure you also pick some extra goodies to take home.

You won’t regret it!

t a e r G e h T cape Es

Beechworth Bakery Healesville 316 Maroondah Hwy

BeechworthBakery.com.au

12583603-SN02-23

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Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

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MAIL 17

OPINION

Hard rubbish pick ups approach It seems that no sooner have we wished one another a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, that the new year begins in earnest and gets quickly underway.

I hope that everyone reading this had a restful and heart-warming holiday period, and that 2023 has great things in store for you all.

Now that the presents have been opened and the summer cleanouts are getting underway, I’d like to remind you all that our annual scheduled hard waste collection is about to start.

Every household in Yarra Ranges has a scheduled collection week between January and March, where we will collect old appliances, bulky items and branches from the area where wheelie bins are usually collected.

Our contractor recycles as much of hard waste items as possible. But before putting items out for collection, consider whether they are in good condition to be sold, given

Jim Child away or donated.

As we start our education about Victoria’s new bin system this year, ahead of our transition, we will be emphasising the most important message about waste in the community: the things you put in your bin do not get thrown away; they are either re-used, or they are not.

By being thoughtful about what we buy, and how we get rid of things we own, we can avoid landfill while protecting the environment that the next generation will inherit. Everyone’s

actions have an impact here.

When you are getting your hard waste ready, just remember that you can put out three cubic metres of furniture, metals, whitegoods, electronics and mattresses. Up to 20 bundles of branches can be left out, as long as they are tied with non-plastic string and meet our measurements (1.5 metres long, 200 millimetres wide).

Some things can’t be collected – like bags of general waste that should be in your landfill bin, building materials, car tyres and chemicals.

Please look up your property’s collection week – and what can be put out for collection at yarraranges.vic.gov.au/wastedates, and only put items out on the Sunday before your collection week begins – so we can keep the Yarra Ranges looking beautiful for everyone.

If you have any questions about hard waste, please visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/hardwaste or give us a call on 1300 368 333.

CARTOON

Avatar sequel, a diluted film about water Avatar: The Way of Water Starring Sam Worthington, Zoey Saldana and Stephen Lang Rated M 4/5 Avatar: The Way of Water is a thrilling visual spectacle full of heart from dependable director James Cameron, but its screenplay falls short of its special effects.

Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), a chief of the Na’vi people on the alien world Pandora, must protect his family from a new human invasion and a vendetta from old enemy General Quaritch (Stephen Lang).

Like the first Avatar from 2009, The Way of Water is a staggeringly beautiful film, portray18 MAIL

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Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

ing a lush, vibrant ecosystem with astonishing CGI. The expressions, lighting, motion and detail are exceptional, and the immersion rarely ever falters. The action sequences are tense and frantic but easy to follow, and the final battle makes great use of a perilous single location.

Jake has a bittersweet arc with his family, as he learns to be a father rather than a squad leader and fights to protect them even as he tries to abandon war. The film’s surprising emotional through-line comes from a Tulkun alien whale: the humans on Pandora run a brutal whaling operation, and Jake’s son Lo’ak’s well-paced bond with one whale provides an effective bridge between Jake’s survival narrative and the broader invasion.

Despite its resplendent visuals and deep emotional core, The Way of Water is somewhat shallow, with not enough plot to fill its daunting 192-minute runtime.

The supporting characters are underwritten: Quaritch’s squadmates feel copy-pasted from Aliens, I had trouble telling Jake’s sons apart, and the Metkayina ocean clan with whom the Sully family take refuge is a thinly-sketched Maori pastiche. The motive for the whaling operation is wafer-thin, and Quaritch’s vendetta fades into the background in the sluggish second act. An exciting, affecting and visually stunning adventure offset by sloppy storytelling and excessive length, Avatar: The Way of Water is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

New start Focal Point Graeme Dawson Happy new year from me in this regular opinion spot – now in my 20th year.

I hope I can keep your interest with some insights and worthwhile comments as we travel through this year.

A big shout out to the Star Mail papers for the wide spreading of these articles.

Especially to our editor, Renee, who has been a pleasure to work with since she took the position and has brought new life to the paper.

I haven’t heard people talking about new year’s resolutions as much this year, although the stock standards still invade our thoughts, like: “I resolve to lose some weight, exercise more, get back to the gym, buy a better car, visit some shut ins, be more pleasant and charitable, and not be so crabby with my kids”.

WOW if that is your list, best of luck.

It’s 10 days into 2023 and I have slipped to just a pass mark in most areas. I resolved to eat smaller portions, walk more, and keep in touch with old friends via phone and Facebook. Now having failed I ask, is this a character fault of mine to be poorly disciplined, or a behavioural fault in setting my bar too high?

Someone once said, “you only get hurt from unmet expectations that result from the unreal level at which you set the bar, which you subsequently fail to clear”.

I’m inclined to believe that could be a cop out which means you only attempt the things in life that you see yourself safely achieving. Safety first is an excellent principal, but safety and a high bar saw Sir Edmund Hilary and his Sherpa guide, Tenzing Norgay first to reach the top of Everest in 1953. There is nothing wrong with dreaming, planning and working hard to achieve, but in the wisdom writings I find my maker’s manual says that a man (or woman) who starts to build a house without first counting the cost is a fool.

In my former counselling days, I often took people through what we call the Three big life questions.

The first question stumped many particularly men: Who am I? Most men like me before my counselling days, would answer, “I am a builder and a farmer and I do oil painting and write poetry and kill sheep for the freezer.

I put the bins out and mow the lawns and bring in the money for the household. I would then go on to explain to the client that this list is what they do, not who they are.

The second question was: Who are these people around me in my family? Asking that same client who were his children, spouse or partner – did he know them – really know them.

Not just their names and what footy team they went for. Did He know what flower colour, movie, music or gifts his partner liked?

Question three is where I am heading.

Where are we going? ‘We’ being the client and or his family? No, I’m not talking about their next trip to Bali, but where is the family or the relationship with his partner going. Is there a plan?

A final question I would ask, have you got a plan for the afterlife? This brings a blank stare and a shrug of shoulders.

This may not be an inappropriate question with an answer to add to this year’s resolutions. (Even, “I plan to make a plan”) You may need to develop a plan with a local pastor, vicar or chaplain. I genuinely wish you all a safe and happy new year.

Many Blessings For contact, use my email first - csrsmokey@gmail.com Graeme Dawson, Chaplain to Community mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Casey MP Aaron Violi with Shadow Minister for Immigration Dan Tehan.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Casey MP Aaron Violi voting on Election Day.

Violi reflects on first year

By Parker McKenzie After being elected to federal parliament in 2022, Casey MP Aaron Violi spoke to the Star Mail and reflected on the challenges and successes of 2022.

Mr Violi, who replaced the long-serving MP Tony Smith at the May 21 federal election, said he has learned a lot about how Canberra and parliament operate after seven months on the job.

“Canberra operates in quite a unique environment and from that perspective, it is disconnected from the electorate and what is happening in everyday society,” he said.

“It is a really important reminder for myself

to make sure I’m out in the community, visiting groups, talking to constituents and really understanding what’s happening and what the challenges are.”

He said some of the biggest challenges for people living throughout the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges included the Covid-19 pandemic, the cost of living crisis and skill shortages.

“Whether it is energy prices, interest rates continuing to go up, the cost of groceries or fuel costs, the cost of living inflation is definitely a challenge for everyone,” he said.

“Skill shortages have been the number one issue that businesses have spoken to me about not just since being elected, but throughout

the campaign and since the lockdowns have ended.

“That’s why I’ve been fighting really passionately and working with Dan Tehan, the Shadow Minister of Immigration, and the government to look to put a designated area migration agreement in place in Casey because that will allow businesses to get better access in very targeted ways to skilled migrants that they need.”

Mr Violi said on a personal level, his highlight has been meeting the “amazing people in the community.”

“I go meet with different groups and I’m just blown away by how giving people are, how passionate they are for the community and how they don’t ask for anything in return,” he said.

“Being elected was also a highlight, I’m a third-generation resident and I unashamedly love Casey. The opportunity to represent my home is something I’ll be forever grateful for.”

He said he would like to thank everybody in the electorate and “those who participated in the democratic process” whether they voted for him or not.

“We’re at our strongest as a country when we’ve got a strong democracy and I really appreciate the support that I’ve received from the community since being elected,” he said.

“My office is always open and we are here to help people, so if you have a challenge, please reach out to the office and we’ll do everything we can to help.”

Need local staff?

Then give us the job...

Star Mail

Need local staff?

Then give us the job... we will advertise it in our employment section and attract local staff

12544966-DL15-22

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Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

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MAIL 19

PUZZLES

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Z N R O P X B E I WUMK 1

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6 9 easy

medium

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Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once.

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

N

Today’s Aim: 23 words: Good 34 words: Very good 46 words: Excellent

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PROBE RAISE REARS RISER SABRE SCENE SCOOT SEEDS SKATE SLEDS SOLED STAFF STAID STEAL STYLE SWEET TOAST TREED URINE WASPS

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

3 2 / $ 5

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13-01-23

This week’s crossword proudly sponsored by

The Heritage Family

HERITAGE & HERITAGE FUNERALS Lilydale 9739 7799 Healesville 5962 1600 HERITAGE PIONEERS CHAPEL 1414 Healesville/Koo Wee Rup Road, Woori Yallock 5964 6500 Head Office: 733 Boronia Road, Wantirna 9800 3000 info@ heritagefunerals.com.au www.heritagefunerals.com.au 1157336-CB40-14

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HUGE HOME WITH SUBDIVISION POTENTIAL (STCA) IN the absolute heart of Yarra Junction – a short walk from your front door but far enough from the hustle and bustle you will find this huge family home sitting proud.

With 4 bedrooms all with robes, master with walk in and ensuite at the front of the home along with formal lounge – complete with bay window – and formal dining.

The kitchen is at the centre of the home with huge bench, stainless steel appliances and plenty of cupboard space. This open plan area encompasses meals area, family room and then from that another huge rumpus full of windows for lots of light.

Gas ducted heating plus split systems keep the climate perfect while extras include new carpet, double sink, high ceilings and plenty of parking.

Any family will love living here, kids will be able to walk to school and the skate park while Mum and Dad will be able to walk the dog around the river and have coffee at one of the cafes on the way home.

Don’t miss out on the potential of this one, call now. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 33 Little Yarra Road, YARRA JUNCTION Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Price: $750,000 - $830,000 Inspect: Saturday, 1pm-1:30pm Contact: Leah Bannerman 0448 924 266, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION, 5967 1277

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

Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

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MAIL 21

HOME FOCUS

IMPRESSIVE HOME IN IDYLLIC POSITION WITH quality features and a unique feel, this premier residence is certain to impress.

Set atop a sealed, circular drive with double carport and deck entry in a peaceful pocket near Upwey and Tecoma townships, this home is the focal point in a fabulous lifestyle.

The entry level of this impressive home offers immense versatility. With 2 sitting rooms flanked by a bright bedroom and a private study ideal for those working from home, you can adjust these rooms to suit your requirements.

On the upper level, space and style are offered in abundance. The interior is set to a backdrop of beautiful treetop views beginning in the lounge with cosy wood fire, wrap-around windows, and high

ceilings. French doors offer an elegant flow through to the expansive kitchen/dining with 2-storey vaulted ceilings, gas cooktop, and access to the rear decks and terraced, landscaped garden with stackstone walls.

Saturated in natural light, this space is guaranteed to be a gathering place for entertaining in style.

With 3 generous bedrooms on this level, including the main with walk-in robe and modern ensuite with matte black rain shower and custom vanity, plus a Jack-andJill bathroom and full guest bathroom, this outstanding home offers optimal comfort.

Add to this an upper level with mezzanine seating area and second home office, this is a gorgeous home that will evolve with your family’s needs through the years. l

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 1 Florence Avenue, UPWEY Price: $900,000 - $950,000 Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Inspect: By appointment Contact: Sam Adamson 0421 023 760 and Daniel Steen 0434 979 142, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE

P 5966 2530

3407 Warburton Highway, Warburton

5 Riverside Drive Warburton

$795,000 - $870,000

2514 Warburton Hwy Yarra Junction

P 5967 1277

2457 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction

$655,000 - $720,000

Enchanting Character home on over 2900 sq.m

Character in Abundance!

This distinctive property built in the early 1900’s offers three large bedrooms, timber floorboards, high ceilings and open fireplaces in two of the rooms. The kitchen is nestled in the heart of the home and has potential plus, offering a great space to work with your creative flair to turn into a terrific true country kitchen. The family lounge and meals is also a superb space to bring the family together with the open fire and split system. A unique large yard with the block being over 2900sqm, where you will enjoy luscious lawns and a creek running all year round. Beautiful established trees and shady areas create the most picturesque and gorgeous outdoor entertaining area, a bonus double garage with concrete floor. A fantastic location being so close to the beautiful Yarra river and a stroll into the quaint Warburton township to get your morning coffee.

This charming Cape Cod style home is nestled into beautiful cottage and edible gardens and provides a large north facing front porch that captures the stunning mountain views. The home offers 3 adorable bedrooms and a beautiful light filled study or 4th bedroom, with the added bonus of a spacious external studio; ideal to work from home or use as a further living area. The main living room is warm and enticing, the quirky kitchen zone will inspire the creative cook in you, provides a place to dine, and has a light filled space to sit and read and enjoy the views to the gardens. The home is full of storage, as every little nook and cranny has been well utilised, and outdoors you will be super excited to see 2 lock up garages, extra gated car parking and also a space that could be ideal to park a caravan, boat or trailers. This home is one out of the box and is sure to tug at your heart strings.

Rebecca Doolan M 0401 832 068 Inspection: Sat 11 -11.30am

3

A

1

B

2

C

Samantha Price M 0438 795 190 Inspection: Sat 10 - 10.30am

Tony Fanfulla M 0419 870 513

4

A

1

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2

C

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HOME FOCUS

SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY THIS stunning architecturally designed home is set in the picturesque region of Marysville and Narbethong which is only 30 minutes from Healesville and on the doorstep of the Lake Mountain Snowfields.

With beautiful native Australian forest behind the property and the Acheron River on your doorstep, this property is the perfect country escape.

Walking into the home the sense of space is immediate when you see the large open plan living & dining area plus the well-equipped modern kitchen complete with stone tops and a glass splashback all overlooking the peaceful garden. Keeping your home cosy is the large Coonara wood heater, plus the addition of multiple split systems throughout the home to you cool in those warm summer months. Walking through the home you will discover the massive entertaining room and large guest

bedroom with BIR.s plus bathroom all on the ground floor. Making your way to the upper level, you enter the massive hallway which leads to the generous master suite complete with walk in robe / dressing room plus private ensuite. Family accommodation is by way of 4 huge bedrooms with BIR.s which all offer views across the gardens, plus a 3rd stylish family bathroom.

Outside is the perfect place to relax and unwind while listening to the birds that frequent the gardens. There is also a large double carport, character garage / workshop, plus a covered entertaining area, ideally for those larger family occasions.

This complete property sits on approximately 1 acre, while being surrounded by the native bushland and cleared crown land, offers an immense sense of space. Only with an inspection can you fully appreciate this wonderful property.

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 556 Marysville Road, NARBETHONG Description: 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 4 garage Price: $830,000 - $900,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Lucas 0407 595 113, email: gary@markgunther.com.au, MARK GUNTHER FIRST NATIONAL, 5962 3030

5962 3030

Mark Gunther

markgunther.com.au 189 Maroondah Highway, Healesville

E In n nL TIO O c aU

ST JU TED LIS

Healesville 1/14 Elamo Rd

3A 2B 2C

Healesville 51 Ryans Road

3A 1B 2C

Proudly positioned only moments from Queens Park & the food & wine precinct in the east end, is this fantastic home. Comprising a large, light-filled open planned living zone with the modern kitchen, dining & living area looking out to the private courtyard, master bed with WIR & ensuite, gas ducted heating & split system, established gardens & double garage.

For Sale

Character 3-bedroom mud-brick residence set on approx. 780m2 garden allotment. Featuring the use of natural timbers & brick flooring, gorgeous leadlight windows, well-equipped galley kitchen, a generous living area with wood heater. Offering 2 large bedrooms plus a loft bedroom/study. Outside there is a covered area with garden views & storage shed.

FOR SALE

$600,000 - $660,000 Inspect

by Appointment or OFI Agent Mark Gunther 0448 623 030

LD

$550,000 - $600,000 Inspect

By Appointment or OFI Agent Gary Lucas 0407 595 113

ST JU TED LIS

SO

Healesville 8 Bona Avenue

3A 1B 4C

Healesville 3 Church St

2A 1B

This beautiful home set on the leafy cul-de-sac of Bona Ave is now SOLD.

SOLD - Another Wanted

This solid character cottage is a perfect opportunity for someone looking for a project to put their own stamp on & make brand new. Set on a low maintenance block & only moments to the main street, in the popular township of Healesville. Ideal holiday let accommodation potential with an array of cafe’s & specialty shops on your doorstep.

For Sale

Previously listed with another agent & now Sold by Gary at Mark Gunther First National. If you’re looking to sell, then call us today to discuss how we can have you SOLD this summer.

mailcommunity.com.au

Agent Gary Lucas 0407 595 113

$595,000 - $650,000 Inspect

by Appointment or OFI Agent Mark Gunther 0448 623 030

Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

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MAIL 23

HOME FOCUS

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS ON 2020M2 FROM the moment you lay eyes on this beautiful, character home you will be captivated by its charm and awestruck by the leafy established gardens that provide added beauty, summer shade and a haven for a variety of colourful native birds.

The wrap around front verandah welcomes you to the home where Victorian Ash polished floors, perfect presentation and large windows create a light filled, inviting environment.

There are two living areas, one provides a quiet place to settle back and enjoy a movie or could serve as a fourth bedroom and the second open plan living room adjoins the kitchen providing the ideal place for relaxed family living.

The kitchen has been thoughtfully planned to allow the chef to create a culinary masterpiece whilst still being part of the goings on in the family/meals areas.

Plenty of cupboards and bench space, gas hot plates, wall oven and dishwasher ensure that meals time is easy. Doors from this section of the home lead to a full length covered balcony making indoor/outdoor living a breeze.

The distant sound of Puffing Billy chugging along to Emerald Lake Park will add to your pleasure. Alfresco dining will be a delight as you revel in the beauty that surrounds. There are three bedrooms, the master with full ensuite and walk in robe.

The family bathroom services the remaining rooms. Extras include ducted heating, split system and a tank for the garden.

Fully fenced and with electric front gate, a sealed driveway leads to a double carport and on to meandering paths that take you on a whimsical tour of the yard where a tree swing, children’s play area, fruit trees, chicken pen and under house storage area can be found.

All within easy reach of our renowned Primary school, kindergarten, childcare, sporting facilities and the wonderful village shops, this is a property that will delight from every angle. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 17 Poplar Crescent, EMERALD Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $990,000 - $1,080,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Gayle Barrot 0408 195 767 and Sue Colic 0421 772 610, BARRY PLANT, EMERALD 24 MAIL

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Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

mailcommunity.com.au

4 Westlands Road, Emerald

9 Francis Street, Cockatoo

446 Paternoster Road, Mount Burnett

AN EXCITING NEW LIFESTYLE DEVELOPMENT

IMPECCABLE HOME WITH STUDIO & SHEDDING

EVERYTHING YOU COULD WANT AND MORE!

3 T

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2 T

B

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4 T

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3 T

B

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FOR SALE.

FOR SALE.

FOR SALE.

GUIDE CONTACT AGENT INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Gayle Barrot 0408 195 767 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

GUIDE $1,450,000 - $1,550,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Denise McKay 0479 184 147 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

GUIDE $1,000,000 - $1,100,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Gayle Barrot 0408 195 767 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

20 Margaret Road, Avonsleigh

355 Beenak East Road, Gembrook

35-37 Rankins Road, Monbulk

‘HIDDENVIEW’ A COUNTRY ESCAPE ON 1 ACRE

EXCEPTIONALLY PRIVATE ON 2.47HA.

A SERENE SANCTUARY OF OVER ONE ACRE

3 T

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FOR SALE.

FOR SALE.

GUIDE $850,000 - $910,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Justin Barrot 0438 683 781

GUIDE $950,000 - $990,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Riley Nicholas 0488 501 218 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

GUIDE $960,000 - $1,035,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Riley Nicholas 0488 501 218 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

30 Florence Avenue, Emerald

1280 Pakenham Road, Mount Burnett

14 Bayview Road, Emerald

THE ULTIMATE COUNTRY LIFESTYLE ON 1,963m2

HUGE POTENTIAL ON OVER 5 ACRES

BAY VIEWS IN CENTRAL EMERALD ON 1042m2

FOR SALE.

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FOR SALE.

FOR SALE.

GUIDE $870,000 - $945,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Justin Barrot 0438 683 781 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

GUIDE $900,000 - $990,000 INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Sue Colic 0421 772 610 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

mailcommunity.com.au

3 T

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FOR SALE. INSPECT By Appointment CONTACT Brittany Barry 0412 861 094 Barry Plant Emerald 5968 4522

Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

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MAIL 25

HOME FOCUS

A MASTERPIECE OF STYLE AND DESIGN A MASTERPIECE of style and architectural design, this impressive family home is a complete ‘one off’ and was built with a superior, quality finish and a 7 star energy efficiency rating.

German engineered, the double glazed windows and doors are a show stopper and encompass every room to highlight the surrounding 2,4185m2 property and beyond.

Sleek, stylish and designed for ease of use, the kitchen boasts gleaming granite benchtops, Bosch electric and convection ovens, induction 4 burner cooktop and dishwasher and flows easily into the light filled lounge.

Brilliant bamboo flooring stretches throughout both levels of this craftsman built home and leads out onto dual, wrap around timber deckings that both protect the home from inclement weather and also provide peaceful outdoor entertaining at its finest.

With five bedrooms (or four plus home office) there is certainly room for everyone.

The office can be found on the main level along with the master suite that comes complete with a resort style luxury ensuite, whilst downstairs, its a teenagers dream – A spacious lounge / rumpus room with wet bar plus three large bedrooms that all contain walk in robes and outdoor access to the beautiful decking. Warm and cosy in the winter months, the spilt system heating/ cooling is quick and convenient while the Coonara style wood fire can run all day and give endless heat.

Outside, the block gently slopes and goes beyond the fence line where you can discover your own hidden oasis along the Monbulk creek.

A sealed driveway, parking for two cars, a 3x3m storage shed, two wood sheds and an enclosed veggie patch complete this Hills lifestyle package.

Within walking distance to Belgrave Heights Christian School and in easy reach of Belgrave and Tecoma train stations plus many local schools and shops, this property is your dream come true. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 11 Glen Road, BELGRAVE Description: 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,045,000 - $1,160,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 26 MAIL

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Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

mailcommunity.com.au

Real Estate you can trust!

We ’ r e h e r e t o h e l p FOR SALE

$950,000 - $995,000

40 Belgrave-Gembrook Road, BELGRAVE

5A 3B

URBAN STYLE ON FAMILY LIVING SCALE

Offers Close 1pm Tues Nov 15th (Unless Sold Prior) This fabulous family home perfectly positioned only a short stroll from bustling Belgrave township offers elevated comfort and enviable style. Drought-tolerant landscaped gardens and thoughtfully curated interior design guarantee this property offers beautifully balanced living. This stylish residence offers undeniable appeal for families seeking something uniquely special. Inspection promises to impress. Plan your viewing today.

FOR SALE

$895,000 asking price

600 Basin-Olinda Road, OLINDA

4A 2B

PRIVATE AND PICTURESQUE “FOREST KEEP” FAMILY RETREAT

If you dream of owning a private, picturesque oasis in the lush Dandenong Ranges, “Forest Keep” will fulfil your heart’s desire. Ideally situated within walking distance of thriving townships and merely minutes down the mountain to major amenities, this property provides a tree-change without sacrificing convenience.

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

Daniel Steen

Suzie Brannelly

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

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

FOR SALE

216 Emerald-Monbulk Road, MONBULK

$670,000-$730,000

BEAUTIFUL TREE TOP HOME NEAR THE HEART OF TOWN

3A 2B 1C

FOR SALE

$685,000 - $750,000

30 Upper Coonara Road, OLINDA FAMILY STARTER WITH FILTERED VALLEY VIEWS

3A 2B 2C

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.

Staring out over filtered views that take in the nearby Monbulk valley, this three bedroom home is spacious and positioned privately away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Set on a generous 1851m2, elevated block with a stunning array of mature trees, the home boasts an open plan design with an updated kitchen that includes a 900ml stainless steel upright oven plus excellent storage and bench space.

Brad Conder

Sharyn Chandler

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

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

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

Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

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MAIL 27

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services V Deadline

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STEVENS GLASS

Jason 1300 644 698

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Trades & Services

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9775 3210 swa224c 12577486-AV46-22

V Pets & Services ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number.

It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice.

For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

12423634-SN31-19

ADVERTISERS in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.

Chef

Full time / Part time 12499475-CG25-21

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Find it in the

Celebrations section of Network Classifieds.

Assistant Meat Manager Ritchies SUPA IGA is a leader in the independent supermarket and liquor industry.

We are seeking an Assistant Meat Manager to join our Yarra Glen team.

Previous applicants encouraged to re-apply.

Join the Masters of Meat at Ritchies today!

Applications to: daniel.beech@ ritchies.com.au

THE OPPORTUNITY

Required for small Yarra Valley Waste Collection company.

Must have Medium Rigid licence.

Early morning starts.

Good wages and conditions.

Phone to arrange interview 0438 596 660

Holmesglen are currently seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Chef to join our friendly Eildon based team.

The Chef will work closely with the catering team to prepare, cook and present all food to the highest possible standard, as well as ensuring that all catering requirements are delivered on schedule, within cost parameters and in accordance with the operational requirements of the Kitchen.

Find your Local Professionals in our

The position would ideally suit a local to Murrindindi region or someone wishing to relocate to the area with an interest in seasonal, sustainable, low miles food to feature in the corporate menu selections and healthy student menus.

Trades & Services

Salary: $52,167 gross per annum (pro-rata) plus reasonable overtime will be offered which can be taken as 25% loading

section of Network Classifieds.

Time Fraction: Part time, 0.6 EFT Location: Eildon campus.

WWCC: Appointment to this position is dependent on obtaining and maintaining an ‘employee’ Working with Children Check.

Position Status: Appointment to 31 December 2024.

ABOUT YOU • Sound knowledge and previous experience working in a similar position in the Hospitality Industry.

• Experience in working to tight schedules.

• Experience with catering for large numbers.

• Scheduling and planning skills.

• The ability to prepare a wide variety of food to suit a variety of occasions, cultures and budgets.

• The ability to adjust priorities to meet changing client needs.

• Victorian Certificate of Education or equivalent • Apprenticeship in Cooking at Certificate IV level • Health and Safety, Food Handlers and Hygiene certificates • Evidence of eligibility to work in Australia

V Positions Vacant

Food & Beverage Attendant THE OPPORTUNITY Holmesglen are currently seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Food & Beverage Attendant to join our friendly Eildon based team.

The Food & Beverage Attendant will work closely with the Food & Beverage Coordinator, General Manager and all operational team members at the centre to ensure a high standard of delivery of services is maintained.

In this role you will provide hands on food and beverage service for conferences, student groups and functions in both front and back of house in a timely, professional and seamless manner.

ABOUT US Holmesglen at Eildon is a purpose built Conference facility and a campus of Holmesglen Institute - Victoria’s largest and most successful providers of Vocational & Higher Education.

The position would ideally suit a local to Murrindindi region or someone wishing to relocate to the area.

The Eildon facility accommodates conference groups, functions, and events with accommodation on site for 150 guests. In addition, the facility hosts Holmesglen student groups for retreats and activities, also Holmesglen staff for Professional Development. The property includes a working cattle farm and extensive kitchen garden. For a better understanding of the facility visit www.holmesglenateildon.com.au

Salary: $45,148 gross per annum (pro-rata) plus reasonable overtime will be offered which can be taken as 25% loading Time Fraction: Part time, 0.6 EFT Location: Eildon campus.

Employment

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU

WWCC: Appointment to this position is dependent on obtaining and maintaining an ‘employee’ Working with Children Check.

Holmesglen is committed to continuing to provide a safe workplace and have put systems and support in place for all our employees to work and deliver safely and flexibly.

Position Status: Appointment to 31 December 2024.

Sous Chef

R30636

THE OPPORTUNITY Holmesglen are currently seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Sous Chef to join our friendly Eildon based team.

The Sous Chef will work closely with the Head Chef and the kitchen team in an impressive commercial kitchen and serve innovative food using locally sourced and grown ingredients.

The position would ideally suit a local to Murrindindi region or someone wishing to relocate to the area with an interest in seasonal, sustainable, low miles food to feature in the corporate menu selections and healthy student menus.

Salary: $52,167 gross per annum (pro-rata) plus reasonable overtime will be offered which can be taken as 25% loading.

Time Fraction: Full time, 1.0 EFT Location: Eildon camous WWCC: Appointment to this position is dependent on obtaining and maintaining a Working with Children Check.

Position Status: Contract of Employment to 31 December 2024 ABOUT YOU • Sound knowledge and previous experience working in a similar position in the Hospitality Industry.

• Experience in working to tight schedules.

• Experience with catering for large numbers.

• Scheduling and planning skills.

• The ability to prepare a wide variety of food to suit a variety of occasions, cultures and budgets.

• The ability to adjust priorities to meet changing client needs.

• Victorian Certificate of Education or equivalent • Apprenticeship in Cooking at Certificate IV level • Health and Safety, Food Handlers and Hygiene certificates ABOUT US Holmesglen at Eildon is a purpose built Conference facility and a campus of Holmesglen Institute Victoria’s largest and most successful providers of Vocational & Higher Education.

The Eildon facility accommodates conference groups, functions, and events with accommodation on site for 150 guests. In addition, the facility hosts Holmesglen student groups for retreats and activities, also Holmesglen staff for Professional Development. The property includes a working cattle farm and extensive kitchen garden. For a better understanding of the facility visit www.holmesglenateildon.com.au OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU Holmesglen is committed to continuing to provide a safe workplace and have put systems and support in place for all our employees to work and deliver safely and flexibly.

Holmesglen is a child safe and equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to attracting, retaining and developing our people. We value diversity in our workforce and encourage people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply for roles within our organisation, including the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community.

All appointments to Holmesglen Institute will be required to provide evidence of COVID-19 Vaccination Status prior to commencing employment.

We commit to respond to every applicant.

TO APPLY For further information relating to this opportunity and to apply, please visit the Careers at Holmesglen section of our website at www.holmesglen.edu.au Applications close 9:00am 27th of January 2023.

Like to know more? Please contact Caroline Berry (Head Chef) on 5774 2631 caroline.berry@holmesglen.edu.au For application queries, please contact recruit@holmesglen.edu.au If you require specific support to apply for this position, please contact the Human Resources Department on 03 9564 2676 and we will work with you to identify the best way to assist.

12584115-SN51-22

mailcommunity.com.au

ABOUT YOU

Holmesglen is a child safe and equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to attracting, retaining and developing our people. We value diversity in our workforce and encourage people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply for roles within our organisation, including the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community.

• Sound knowledge and previous experience working in a similar position in the Hospitality Industry • Excellent customer service skills • Previous experience coordinating casual staff and working as part of a team • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills directed towards customer service • Responsible Service of Alcohol Certificate • Workplace Food Handlers Certificate • Current Victorian Driver’s License • Evidence of eligibility to work in Australia ABOUT US

All appointments to Holmesglen Institute will be required to provide evidence of COVID-19 Vaccination Status prior to commencing employment.

We commit to respond to every applicant.

TO APPLY For further information relating to this opportunity and to apply, please visit the Careers at Holmesglen section of our website at www.holmesglen.edu.au Applications close 9:00 am 27th of January 2023.

Holmesglen at Eildon is a purpose built Conference facility and a campus of Holmesglen Institute - Victoria’s largest and most successful providers of Vocational & Higher Education.

Like to know more? Please contact Caroline Berry (Head Chef) on 5774 2631 caroline.berry@holmesglen.edu.au

The Eildon facility accommodates conference groups, functions, and events with accommodation on site for 150 guests. In addition, the facility hosts Holmesglen student groups for retreats and activities, also Holmesglen staff for Professional Development. The property includes a working cattle farm and extensive kitchen garden. For a better understanding of the facility visit www.holmesglenateildon.com.au

If you require specific support to apply for this position, please contact the Human Resources Department on 03 9564 2676 and we will work with you to identify the best way to assist.

For application queries, please contact recruit@holmesglen.edu.au

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU Holmesglen is committed to continuing to provide a safe workplace and have put systems and support in place for all our employees to work and deliver safely and flexibly.

R30646

12584388-AI02-23

Holmesglen is a child safe and equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to attracting, retaining and developing our people. We value diversity in our workforce and encourage people from all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to apply for roles within our organisation, including the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community.

V Professional

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

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Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

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2022 - BEST SPORT STORIES

L-R: Morgan Wyatt, Nelson Aldridge, Selina Fotia, Tim McKail and Nikita Aldridge of WarburtonMillgrove FNC decked out in the Indigenous Round kit.

More umpires are needed in local footy nationwide, and Sophie Mastaing would like to see more female umpires get involved.

Local sporting triumphs Daniel Sanders roundabout year in rally racing Three Bridges’ resident rally racer Daniel Sanders endured an up-and-down year, coming off disappointment in the Dakar to victory in the Hattah.

Seven days into the 2022 Dakar Rally in February, Sanders was sitting in third position out of the 144 riders who made it to the starting line. Steering his motorbike through the cold and dark Saudi Arabian morning, he didn’t notice the lane changing into a U-turn.

“I put pressure on the front brake and I ended up crashing straightaway, slid into the curb at about 110 to 120 kilometres-an-hour, did three somersaults and then stopped, sitting there winded,” Sanders says.

The result was a fractured elbow and what felt like a damaged femur as well.

But Sanders bounced back from his injuries and claimed victory in the Hattah Desert Race in July after a weekend’s worth of racing in the desert by the Victorian border to New South Wales.

“It was a pretty big challenge, I probably had five weeks back on the bike and made it happen, it’s definitely a good feeling to win the race for the second time after six months off the bike,” he said.

Umpiring crisis In April, it became clear the Yarra Ranges had not been spared from the umpiring crisis facing footy with numbers down at the local and professional levels.

Junior Health and Wellness Mentor for AFL Outer East Sophie Mastaing began in her new role this year, looking after umpires under the age of 18, ensuring they feel comfortable in gameday scenarios and training.

Ms Mastaing said having more umpires getting involved, particularly people who also play football, will be important for supporting a continued crackdown on umpire abuse.

“More umpires will create less stigma around umpires because more players will be an umpire and they’ll understand what they’re doing and what they say,” she said.

“Even for spectators being the parent of an umpire will help them understand, they might see their kids go out and get abused and reconsider their behaviour, which will be transferred into senior football as parents play and watch as well.”

A former AFL Outer East umpire spoke to Star Mail about their experiences umpiring and why they chose to quit.

“I did not enjoy receiving abuse from middle-aged men and women while just trying to do my job. I was not going to continue in a job where I was being criticised for my every decision. The condescending questions I would receive from coaches and even umpire escorts implying that I wasn’t aware of the rules of football also led me to want to stop umpiring.

This is not to say that all spectators and coaches were disrespectful,” they said.

Wandin North’s own karate kid

By June, Wandin North resident Stephen Cameron had already won gold at the Australian Open Karate Championships in Sydney and claimed bronze in the Junior Male Open Kumite at Oceania Karate Championships in Noumea (New Caledonia).

At this point, Stephen sat 11th in the world for Junior Kumite Males under 68kg.

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The Burras’ U18s with the premiership flag.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Stephen Cameron unleashes a vicious kick.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

Ella Morse’s winning shot goes in.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

Daniel Sanders after his Hattah win.

Chief Instructor and Stephen’s sensei Brett Cross said Stephen has always been really dedicated.

“He has never complained and always works hard even when he was tired and he’s still the same now, no matter what,” he said.

“It’s a really special feeling to know he was maybe five or six when he started and to see the progress he’s made along the way from a little kid from development division to elite, then to state champion and national champion, and now set to go off to international championships.”

Indigenous Rounds a big success The Warburton-Millgrove Football Netball Club and rivals Powelltown Football Netball Club held its first indigenous match on Saturday 23 July.

Several special guests were invited including senior Wurrendjeri Elder Aunty Joy Wandin, VFLW player Courtney Ugle and AFL legend Nicky Winmar, who once played for Warburton-Millgrove after retiring from professional football.

Taungurung man and vice-captain of Warburton-Millgrove Nelson Aldridge said he was pleased that other clubs such as Healesville and Yarra Glen have decided to schedule Indigenous Matches for this year and suggested this should be a compulsory round for every club.

“I think it’s something that all clubs at some

point should be doing… it’s a great cause,” he said.

“Let’s close the gap. We must be willing to go beyond the gap, so let’s walk it together and that’s exactly what we’re doing.”

Young Burras bring home grand final prize In August, the Warburton-Millgrove U18s side made history after they were victorious in the Grand Final of the AFL Outer East Box Hill Institute U18 Boys competition on Sunday 7 August.

The Burras led at every change before a strong last-quarter finish secured the 12.10, 82 to 5.8, 38 win.

Coach David Swankie said the players were rapt.

“Most of them played their junior footy together and hadn’t won a flag before so it meant a lot to them. I’m so proud of the way they conducted themselves throughout the year, continuing to train and work on the plans, structures and style of football we wanted them to play. To keep their concentration for the whole 15 weeks of the season with not many teams in the competition, I thought was fantastic,” he said.

On an individual level, the Burra’s Liam Westlake also brought home the league best and fairest award, making it back-to-back wins.

Westlake said he was pretty astonished to have won again.

“Definitely meant more to win the flag, how-

ever, it means everything to the club, we hadn’t won an Under 18s premiership for a few years now so it was a great achievement,” he said.

Seville netballers claim three flags Come Grand Final Day in September, all four of Seville’s netball sides were in the deciding fixture.

In the end, the A, B and C sides all brought home the flag.

A Grade’s game was the pick of the bunch, sealing the flag with a last-minute winner to bring home their first A Grade flag since 2016 and their first in Division One. Tied at quarter time, Berwick up by a point at halftime and Seville by 2 at the final change, the game was going down to the wire. Seville held a game-high lead of 7 points earlier in the game before Berwick mounted their comeback and with only minutes left on the clock, the scores were tied at 43 apiece. Nerves truly set in and passes were being intercepted left, right and centre, with neither team able to hold on to the ball and get a meaningful shot off until Ella Morse received the ball centrally inside in the goal circle and converted with less than a minute left.

Ella Morse said the scenes were unreal after making the shot.

“As I shot it I was just thinking ‘This better go in’, and now we can celebrate with drinks tonight and a big weekend ahead,” she said. mailcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Healesville 1st XI defeated at death

By Josh Handasyde In the first game back after the season break, Healesville Cricket Club’s Ist XI was defeated 153 to Eastfield’s 9/156.

Healesville travelled to Eastfield for the first match after Christmas. The Bloods won the toss and elected to bat on what was a beautiful day for cricket. The day didn’t start as the Bloods had hoped as opener Handasyde was run out in the first over before Max Wallace had a similar fate in the next. The Bloods quickly fell to 5/20 before Tom Handasyde and Brenton Damrow helped steady the ship.

Damrow (17) was out LBW leaving the Bloods again in a precarious position at 6/45. Tom Handasyde and Liam English built a solid partnership before English was caught on the boundary for a well-made 32. Tom Handasyde (39*) batted through to the end and with some good late-order hitting from Mitch Tampaline (26) and a first ball six from Dillon Kerr Healesville scrambled to 153. The Bloods had the dream start with the ball having Eastfield 3/27 and consistently taking wickets to have them 7/92 at the drinks break with both Luke Chandler (3/25) and Jack Drummond (3/25) amongst the wickets. When Josh Handasyde bowled the no.9 batsmen Eastfield were 8/106

Healesville’s Max Wallace taking a brilliant running catch in the field. had the Healesville supporters were thinking the game was close to ending. But J. Lennox (33) and Nick Ruciek (28*) built a partnership that ended when Damrow took a wicket with his first ball, Eastfield were 9/134. A final

Barefoot bowls The Yarra Junction Bowling Club are still awaiting the return of the season after the holiday break but will be getting back into the swing of things with community barefoot bowls on Friday 13 January.

The event will continue to be played every Friday onwards at 6.30pm.

Everyone is welcome, with a $10 fee per adult to use the green.

There is an open bar, sausage sizzle and music to enjot, with all equipment supplied by the club for a night of casual bowls to enjoy with your family and friends.

To find the Yarra Junction Bowling Club, turn left from the Warburton Highway just after Hoddle Street, and the club is located behind the Yarra Centre.

Picture: SUPPLIED

wicket partnership of 22 got Eastfield over the line in what was one of the tensest finishes to a game this season. Next week the Bloods face off against Warrandwood in a two-day match down at Queens Park.

Come and enjoy barefoot bowls at the Yarra Junction Bowling Club on Fridays.

Picture: ON FILE

‘Chucky’ Sanders charges on in the Dakar Rally

Warburton Bowls Club players in a midweek game at Healesville before the break.

Picture: SUPPLIED

This time last year, Three Bridges resident Daniel ‘Chucky’ Sanders was cruising along in his second Dakar Rally, only days away from a massive crash that would rule him out.

In 2023, he is yet to suffer anything that serious but it has still been an up-anddown experience for Sanders.

On Thursday 5 January, he was sitting first overall with a three-minute, 33-second lead over Skyler Howes and looking great value to continue his strong showing.

The fourth day of racing on 4 January in Saudi Arabia saw Sanders open the 425km stage for the bikes and by the time he reached the finish line he had leapt from second overall to first place. The GASGAS rider’s roadbook reading skills were tested by a track that had been drastically altered by the previous night’s heavy rainfall.

“I haven’t really done any opening with

roadbooks since the last Dakar. It was really tricky navigation. The rain last night washed away a lot of the tracks,” he said.

However, disaster struck in Stage Five on Friday 6 January, as a bout of severe food poisoning had ‘Chucky’ feeling like he needed to ‘chucky’, forcing him to slow down and cruise through the stage.

Sanders, unfortunately, lost around 26 minutes due to the illness and dropped to eighth overall.

Sanders recovered well over the weekend, making up for lost time, recovering 12 minutes in Stage Six alone. He sits just over seven minutes behind overall leader Skyler Howes, and is one of eight riders within ten minutes of the lead. There are six stages remaining in the rally.

In his 2021 Dakar debut, Sanders finished in fourth place overall and was the highest-placed rookie in the contest.

Warburton Bowls Club keen to return after break

By Garry Lewis The Warburton Bowls Club is eager to start the second part of the season in a positive manner following the festive break. All sides look forward to returning to the green and displaying some exciting form.

The Weekend Warburton 1 side is determined to stay in Division 1 and looks forward to this week’s game away against Essendon 1.

They are in a very tough section but are always up to the challenge and will apply their best effort.

Warburton 2 is currently in third position on the ladder and looks forward to consolidating against Chirnside Park 2 away this week.

The Midweek team play Upwey Tecoma 1 on January 17 at home and hope to remain in the top four leading up to the finals.

The Wednesday Night Barefoot Bowls Trimailcommunity.com.au

ples Competition recommences on January 25 with a series of double headers to make up for lost time due to poor weather conditions before the break.

Once again the Club is conducting its’ PINK DAY Triples Tournament, sponsored by Professionals Real Estate, on Sunday February 12 th 2023 from 12 midday. Female and Male entries accepted of all abilities, including Beginners. $10 per player ($30 per team) Three games, Raffle and Prizes and BBQ Sausage Sizzle. All proceeds to go towards the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Positions are filling up fast so contact Rayna Zunneberg 0419472450 or the Club 59662391 if you wish to enter a team.

Social Bowls continue to be played on Mondays from 12pm midday with excellent numbers regularly participating. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun!

Daniel Sanders during stage 4 of Rally Dakar 2023 at Ha’il to Ha’il, Saudi Arabia.

Picture: RED BULL CONTENT POOL Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

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