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Ranges Trader

Local woman prepares to tackle Mount Everest

Hope Upwey Belgrave RSL will escape its looming closure

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Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

Mail Looking back at the best 2022 news stories

Top sport achievements from last year

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Local mum leads Mail PERSON OF THE YEAR

2022 By Tyler Wright Throughout 2022 there has been one local who’s stood out for their community advocacy and being a voice for local mums and projects. Sassafras local Belinda Young has been chosen as the ‘Person of the Year’ for campaigning strongly throughout 2022 on key issues such as storm recovery and NBN services. Ms Young was also named Victoria Local Hero in the 2023 Australian of the Year awards for her work in community advocacy and connecting mothers in the Dandenong Ranges through the group she founded in 2015; Mums of the Hills. Ms Young has worked on helping the community heal after the June 2021 storm event by organising trauma informed care for children, bush play groups, women’s rewilding groups, a storm recovery walk and a tree planting morning through Mums of the Hills. With her role of Victoria Local Hero in 2023, Ms Young is planning to push for the NBN to be classified as an essential service in Victo-

Sassafras resident Belinda Young is the Star Mail’s Person of the Year for 2022. 313723 ria’s Essential Services Act of 1958, after some residents went without NBN for around 70 days after the June 2021 storm event, with no financial support to cover the costs incurred as a result of this outage. Pushing for telecommunications to be legislated as an essential service is hoped to

Picture: ROB CAREW

improve the speed of restoration, provide financial support while services are down for a prolonged time and improve the framework for telco regulation around Australia, according to Ms Young. Ms Young has organising insurance, bushfire preparedness and chainsaw workshops and co-

ordinating storm-related information for easier access, and has advocated for better infrastructure and childcare services in the region. For more on Belinda Young’s work and more of the year’s top stories, turn to page 6 and beyond

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IN BRIEF

By Tyler Wright Domestic and family violence services are on standby over the Christmas and New Year break, after Victoria Police attended 8,388 family incidences in December 2021 - 11 per cent above the monthly average for the year. On New Year’s Day in 2022, there were 424 family incidents - an 80 per cent increase from the year prior. The Eastern Community Legal Centre, which provides legal advice and representation to both victim survivors and alleged perpetrators in its duty lawyer services at the Ringwood Magistrates Court, provided over 100 services in relation to family and domestic violence in December 2022, according to ECLC’S Director of Legal Services and Principal Lawyer Belinda Lo. “It is ECLC’s experience that Family violence unfortunately continues throughout the year, however there are certain times of the year when cases can rise. The holiday period is often a time of pressure for families where existing tensions can be exacerbated due to the expectations that the holiday season brings about, especially when child changeover is involved,” Ms Lo said. “Family violence is caused by one person attempting to exert power and control over another (or over the family as a whole) and this sadly is not uncommon during this time. The social and financial pressures that the holiday season brings can add to tensions if they already exist,” she said. ECLC saw family violence matters from Mooroolbark, the Yarra Valley, Montrose, Mount Dandenong, Olinda, Mount Evelyn, Upwey-Tecoma, Wandin, Seville, Belgrave and Selby in December.

Domestic and family violence services are on standby over the Christmas and New Year as statistics show incidents rising. Picture: SUPPLIED In response to the increase in family violence incidents over the holiday period, Peak Australian body No To Violence - which specialises in effective evidence-informed engagement with men - is launching its Safer Summer campaign to help partners make better choices over the summer break. “If a family is under pressure, and if there’s already been some abuse or violence going on, then Christmas New Year, the holiday periods generally become become heightened, and things can escalate very, very quickly,” No To Violence CEO Jacqui Watt said. “We recognise it’s a really dangerous time for families, particularly if they’re already living with domestic and family violence, and we’re very keen to make sure that people know that there is a service available for people who might be using violence and who want to make a different choice and find a different way of

not harming their loved ones and their family.” Men can call the Men’s Referral Service 1300 766 491, which invites them to consider their behaviour and seek meaningful change, with the aim to reducing repeated incidents of family domestic violence. “We recognise that it takes a lot of courage to pick up the phone, or to make that web chat connection with us, and we work with the person as they present to try to understand what’s going on for them, what are the underlying issues? Do they want to have more than just a chat? Would they like access to other services?,” Ms Watt said. Ms Watt said 60 women are killed by their current or former partner every year in Australia; a “chilling” statistic. “We want to stop that but we also want to stop people getting into that pattern, where the violence is escalating and escalating and escalating, and for women out there who are listening to know that there are services out there for them as well... triple zero as the crisis service, but there’s also Safe steps in Victoria... bearing in mind that actually leaving is can often be the most dangerous time,” she said. “It’s about all of us getting in there earlier. Getting in there more effectively. It’s about all of us calling out our mates, or our contacts or when we see things in the street, calling things out and saying ‘hey, that’s not okay,’ and promote and respect for women and for children, and for people from queer communities. “Abuse and violence should not be tolerated in a civilised society.” If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, you can contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Safe Steps on 1800 015 188.

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. Neigh-

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Grassfires can spread quickly, especially in hot and dry conditions. Picture: ON FILE bouring 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 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 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.

ELLIE RISELEY Tom Hewitt would like to get in touch with Ellie Riseley, who previously lived in and may still live in the South Belgrave area. Tom was Manager, South East Industries, Clayton. He can be contacted at: rinitom3@tpg.com.au 12585478-MS02-23

Police are investigating separate incidents that occurred in the early hours of Sunday 1 January. At about 12.05am, a 16-year-old male was thrown from his motorcycle when he collided with another motorcycle rider in Ferndale Road, Upper Ferntree Gully. The child was not believed to be wearing a helmet. He was conveyed to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The other rider received minor injuries. Knox HWP members are investigating the circumstances of the collision. Anyone with information is requested to contact Senior Constable PHILLIPS on 9881 7900/9881 7000 or submit a confidential report via CrimeStoppers. At about 1.30am, a 28-year-old male driver lost control of his vehicle in Black Springs Road, Wonga Park and collided with a tree. His vehicle overturned and he was trapped inside for some time until he was able to be freed by emergency services. He was later conveyed to hospital via air ambulance with serious but non-lifethreatening injuries. Police are investigating if speed, drugs or alcohol contributed to the collision. Please contact Senior Constable JENNER at Yarra Ranges HWP on 9739 2402 or make a report via Crimestoppers if you have any information, CCTV or dash cam.

Lost ring A white gold sapphire diamond ring was lost near Emerald Lake wading pool shelter in Emerald on Tuesday 27 December. The ring is a family heirloom and anyone who may have found it is encouraged to contact Belgrave Police on 9754 5577. Cyclists struck by vehicle at around 7.10pm on Saturday 7 January, two cyclists on Boronia Road were struck by a white sedan, with the driver of the vehicle failing to stop. The cyclists were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries following the collision. Police said both riders were riding legally in the left lane and had flashing lights fitted. The driver of the vehicle was described as a Caucasian female and it is believed there were several other occupants in the car. Police asked the driver to come forward before the police come knocking on their door. In a Facebook post, Yarra Ranges Eyewatch said “it is disappointing that despite our best efforts to warn people about the consequences of risk-taking behaviour, particularly at this time of year, that we are still attending a number of avoidable motor vehicle collisions”. Anyone with information or dash cam can contact Senior Constable MCGREGOR at Knox HWP on 9881 7900/9881 7000 or make a confidential report via CrimeStoppers.

Story correction In an article published in the Star Mail’s edition on Tuesday 15 November, titled ‘Eleventh day’ or Poppies fill Monbulk RSL for Remembrance Day online, Monbulk RSL Secretary Craig Vandenberg was incorrectly referred to as Monbulk RSL’s Vice President rather than his correct title as Secretary. Vice President John Surridge was also incorrectly referred to as Secretary in the piece.

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Jen’s trek of a lifetime By Tyler Wright The Dandenong Ranges National Park formed the setting of Jen Willis’ first experiences with nature. Born in Upper Ferntree Gully and attending high school in Monbulk, Jen and her family would take an annual trip for a week each summer to Thredbo, a ski resort in NSW, and for a week each winter to Falls Creek. When Jen was about eight years old, her grandpa gifted her a brooch with an ice axe and mountaineering boot; the beginning of her love of climbing. Despite enjoying forest near her family home, Jen said she wasn’t a “sporty” child, and went through adolescence with low confidence after being bullied in primary school. “Honestly, when I was younger, I didn’t go out into the forest. I wasn’t very physical, I was always last for the PE team,” she said. Dropping out of school at the start of Year 12, Jen was able to create a new pathway for herself by enrolling in an outdoor education course at Boronia Tech - but the change wasn’t easy at first. “I was hopeless... I cried when I first abseiled, I got my air stuck. I found it so hard.” “I went on the Monbulk High ski camp once a year when I was in high school, and that was the only thing where I’d ever been a little bit better than average. Everything else, I was just so much worse than everybody else.” But a year after she began her course, Jen started rock climbing; where she found a sense of passion. “That really was the first time where I said “oh my God, I can actually do something physical with my body, where I feel good, and I feel capable.” With this new found confidence, Jen went on to study Outdoor Education at Latrobe Uni and an MBA in Master of Applied Positive Psychology at Melbourne University. But it was a spontaneous trip to Nepal in 1996, where she would stay near mountain Ama Dablam’s base camp that further cemented her love for mountaineering. “My friends went off rafting while we were there, and I went up trekking on my own, and ended up spending a night at the Ama Dablam base camp, and meeting these mountaineers that had summited and going, ‘oh my God, whatever it is that they’re experiencing, I want to feel what it is that they’re feeling, because it just seems so powerful,” she said. “I idolised these strong people that would head up into the mountains...they were my heroes.” Jen would go on to work at various outdoor education centres and with schools both in Australia and internationally - and a become a mother to three children; putting her aspirations of mountain climbing to one side for years. In 2008, after years of health episodes, physical discomfort and fatigue, including several months in 1995 barely able to walk, Jen was told she may have Multiple Sclerosis (MS); a chronic disease that attacks the brain, spine and optic nerves.

Jen, a mother-of-three, was officially diagnosed with MS in 2018.

Jen Willis, 51, is preparing to climb Mount Everest in April. She is pictured at about 6,400 metres high on Nepal’s Ama Dablam. Pictures: SUPPLIED “I knew that by the time that the diagnosis was being suggested, there were medications that were delaying disease progression, and that it was that research that was making a difference, and that I was going to be a direct beneficiary of that research, and so I wanted to,over time, work out how could I do my part to support that as well,” she said. “I was in Colorado, looking at the mountains going, ‘I’ve always dreamed of climbing and mountaineering, so maybe at some point, I’ll go and I’ll follow that dream to climb, and I’ll raise money for research as well.” Noticing her memory becoming not quite as good as it was, her tongue feeling like it was burning, and her vision blurring or become double at times, Jen was officially diagnosed with MS in 2018; almost 10 years after hints this was the root of her fatigue and health issues. Jen’s neurologist advised her that if she were to do nothing new, she would likely be in a wheelchair within three to four years. Rather than discourage her, this news sparked a determination within Jen to fulfill her dreams of becoming a mountaineer; and she set off to Nepal again in October 2022; climbing the 6476 metre-high Mera Peak as

well as trekking the 6812 metre-high Ama Dablam; raising almost $10,000 for MS research in the process. “I’ve always loved reading other people’s books of adventure and things like that, and telling their stories and telling other people... ‘oh, have you read this book? And have you heard that? and then thinking I’d like to write my own book, because I’ve done some interesting things in my life,” Jen said. “And then I thought, ‘I just have to create that story’. I actually have to become the heroine in my own book, so I can write that story.” Now 51 years old, Jen’s story isn’t over; with a plan to jump on a plane to Kathmandu in April this year and climb the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest, with a summit that sits at around 8,500 metres high and takes around 60 days to complete. She plans to donate the total trip cost of $60,000 to the Trish MS Research Foundation and the Forum for the Welfare of Himalayan Children, but still needs to raise around $50,000 for the trip by the end of January. “On one side, seeing these donations coming in the last couple of days is super exciting... and then facing ‘sorry, I can’t help you,’ ‘we can’t help’ as well... where it’s like, ‘oh, can I re-

Jen (centre) in front of Mount Everest on a trip to Nepal in 1996. ally pull this off?’ I went through ‘oh, my God, I think I can do this’ to, ‘oh, my God, can I?’ “As far as the trip, the climbing,I feel really confident to have a real go...having just been in the mountains...the big part then is that sense of being able to tell a story, and that what I’m doing has enough purpose to help others.” As a way to give back to those who have helped Jen wants to run webinar sessions on how she was able to overcome her battles as a teenager to eventually climb Mount Everest, despite a diagnosis of MS. “I realise that I’m lucky at the moment that I can go through this, but raising those funds to make sure I can climb this April, because in another year’s time with MS, you just have no idea... will I still be as well as I am now, and walking?” “That’s where you rely on medication... a lot of people to progress a lot more quickly without medication.” To support Jen in her adventure to Mount Everest, you can visit this link and donate to organisations, visit https://www.mycause. com.au/p/302222/climb-for-ms-help-jen-become-the-first-aussie-woman-with-ms-toclimb-mt-everest-in-honour-of-trish-langsford

Looking back on a successful Light Up Upwey By Tyler Wright Traders in Upwey are looking to get involved in more late night trading in 2023 after the success of the Light Up Upwey Christmas celebrations on 14 December. Carollers hit the street for the night, with stores decorating their shop fronts with festive decorations and visitors able to get a taste of the area’s shopping flare during the celebrations from 5pm to 8pm. Upwey Myotherapy owner Mat Richardson said the vast majority of shops were “flat out;” including those selling giftwares alongside food outlets. “A few reports I’ve heard from patients that only come to see me, was they wouldn’t have actually come to any of these shops in Upwey, but because the festival brought them in, they’ve now gone to the Indian Indian place for dinner, they’ve now gone to a 4 MAIL

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Cafe Have Ya Bean was decorated for 2022’s Light Up Upwey event on 14 December, taking out second place for its efforts. Pictures: SUPPLIED gift shop in town; where in the past they were just wouldn’t have done that,” Mr Richardson said. “It’s already started bringing people into the town.”

The Upwey Community Group, the Bendigo Bank and local traders helped create Light Up Upwey this year with help from community members who donated. “We created a lot more connections between local shop owners, and I think people really liked that; when they come into a street, and they can see that everyone’s been getting on well and they’re looking at actually promoting the community rather than just about making money...It’s more about how can we give back to the community,” Mr Richardson said. He said local businesses are looking to form an official trader’s group, which can receive funding and make events in the area bigger. “During Covid it all shut down, and we didn’t see a lot of late night things happening, and it’s taken a little bit to coax people back

out and about again,” he said. “Part of it is that a lot of people love the community feel to it, so if we can help promote that more and more, we’ll hopefully draw a lot of people from around the hills, but also off the hills too. “I think we’re doing events for Easter and Halloween and a few other things throughout the year.” The Light Up Upwey festivities rounded off with an award ceremony to nominate the winners of the window displays. On Sunday 18 December during the very lively twilight ‘Seed Of Life’ market, awards went to Flowers by Ward and Wylie with third place, Cafe Have Ya Bean Cafe for second place and Enchanted PINES for first place. The much applauded community favourite went to Silhouette Grooming and Pet Supplies. mailcommunity.com.au

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After the Upwey-Belgrave RSL announced its potential closure by Anzac Day this year, support from locals flooded in. But the venue needs more volunteers to keep it alive. Left, Upwey-Belgrave RSL president Anthony Stewart and right, Functions Pictures: ROB CAREW Co-ordinator Trish Wegwood in the RSL restaurant. 314521

Volunteer “Bokky” behind the Upwey-Belgrave RSL bar. He is a Veteran of Iraq and a double Veteran of Afghanistan. 314521

Support floods in for RSL By Tyler Wright The Upwey-Belgrave RSL has had an influx of support after announcing its potential closure by Anzac Day this year, providing a glimmer of hope for the community. When the RSL made the announcement in late December 2022 that the venue was scheduled to close its doors by April due to financial issues, it was shared across social media with concerned reactions from locals; and around 70 people have offered to lend a hand, according to RSL president Anthony Stewart. “From the responses we’ve received through Facebook, people are saying ‘we don’t want to see anything else there,’” RSL president Anthony Stewart said.

“Somebody’s even reached out on Facebook and said ‘Dan Andrews, help them out... there really is support out there for the place.” After Covid lockdowns, Mr Stewart said he was expecting business for the RSL to pick up. However, he said this was not the case despite multiple bookings over the Christmas period; and the tasks to keep the RSL running require more than the current core group of volunteers. “The situation that was happening at that time, that was quite feasible, quite possible [to close by ANZAC Day]...with the outreach that we’re getting from community, I believe it’ll be longer than that. Because when you write these things, you don’t know what sort of re-

sponse you’re going to get,” Mr Stewart said. One of the problems, he said, comes with not knowing if the uptake of volunteers will last in the long term. “Until we create a list of people ,where they can be, what they can do, [It’s] rather difficult to know moving forward how long it will go for.” According to Mr Stewart, the RSL has been offered bookkeeping assistance, and six people with a Responsible Serving of Alcohol (RSA) certificate have offered to man the bar. “It’s been quite amazing. I’ve had Aaron Violi who’s the local member for Casey on the phone to me,” he said. “We’re looking for front of house people,

we’re looking for gardeners, we’ve had three bus drivers put their hands out say ‘yes, we’ll drive the courtesy bus at the RSL.’” Mr Stewart said there are 14 groups including the local Labor party, fishing clubs, darts clubs and football clubs that use the UpweyBelgrave RSL premises. “I’d like to thank you everyone in the community for their support, because we don’t know longevity wise what’s going to happen... people can keep volunteering or putting their hand up...we’re very appreciative.” If you’re looking to volunteer at Upwey-Belgrave RSL, you can contact belgraversl@gmail. com, or Upwey-Belgrave RSL treasurer Mark Addison at mark@upwey.net

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2022 - PERSON OF THE YEAR Sassafras local BELINDA YOUNG has been a leader for the local community, campaigning strongly throughout 2022 on key issues such as storm recovery and NBN services. Ms Young was also honoured, named as the Victoria Local Hero in the 2023 Australian of the Year awards for her work in the community.

Young stands out as hero By Tyler Wright From the one year anniversary of the June 2021 storm event to reaching the milestone of six months out of lockdown; it has been a busy year for Victoria Local Hero - and Sassafras local - Belinda Young, along with the popular group Mums of the Hills (MotHs) she founded in 2015. “We’ve had an extra 2,500 members since the June storm… probably about 2000 since the start of the year,”Ms Young said. “It increases by 100 members every two weeks.” Now with over 5,000 members online, MotHs is a space that connects mothers throughout the Dandenong Ranges, and has also helped with organising insurance, bushfire preparedness and chainsaw workshops after natural disaster. “I’m a member of the regional community recovery committee and looking at what recovery looks like now, and how we can help local community groups to do what they think that they need to do in their area to help get them back on their feet,” Ms Young said. Ms Young also collated information about available mental health services and food directories during Victoria’s lockdowns in 2020 and 2021. MotHs facilitated a hike through Sherbrooke Forest in June 2022, with counsellors and proper hiking guides to help locals reconnect with the environment after the damage inflicted after the 2021 storm event. A planting day at Belgrave Lake was also head in May 2022 for children and mums to plant their own shrubs and trees after storm damage. “There was a lot of intention behind that; not just to signify regrowth and renewal, but also to help kids connect with other people, and hopefully they’ll take great pride when they see all those plants grow and know that they they played a big part in that area regrowing,” Ms Young said. Aside from helping facilitate numerous activities and gatherings, Ms Young has also been advocating for the NBN to be named in the essential services act, thereby ensuring companies act quickly to assist those without connection for long periods. “Those weeks that we were without power, there [were] funds available to help locals pay for generators or pay to fill their fridges again, that wasn’t the case for NBN,” Ms Young said. “We had our power restored after 21 days... however, we were still waiting a further 50 days for NBN to be restored, so we had 21 days without power [and] 71 days without NBN.” Ms Young said she attended a telecommunications roundtable and also sent former federal telecommunications minister Paul Fletcher MP to Sassafras to show him how the infrastructure “isn’t suited for this area”. “Not having NBN, not having phone service...it doesn’t just have to impact you financially or with your employment, but also your mental health as well, and physical health when you’re talking about telehealth services,” Ms Young said. “You have those that are our elderly, that also are on an elderly pension or someone with a disability on a disability pension, and their pension is so small and they’ve been forced to pay for data then they’ll choose not to pay for the data if they’ve got to be isolated and not talk to people just so they can eat.” With advocating for change in legislation expected to be a lengthy process, Ms Young in the meantime is working with telecommunication companies to implement data donation services, where customers can donate data back to the company for those in need to use. “I’d love to see that happen for all mobile phone services, because that opens up the door for short term relief when the NBN is down, and you have to hotspot off 6 MAIL

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From left to right: Katerina Volny, Catherine Nobes, Jenni Nash from Fletchers Real Estate, Rebecca Lovett and Belinda Young at the new site for Pictures: ROB CAREW Mums of the Hills in Belgrave. 313723 your phone,” she said. Ms Young was named Victoria Local Hero in the 2023 Australian of the Year awards for her work in the community, and said he started shaking in the Canberra ceremony on Tuesday 8 November. “These issues affect every single community around Australia, they just don’t know it. We had the storm and we lost NBN. o many other people have had floods and they’ve been affected in the same way. And it wasn’t until they went through the disaster that they then learnt about this; how fragile our telecommunications infrastructure is in the face of climate change. “I’ll be doing my work trying my hardest to make a positive difference in the year that I have as the Victorian [local hero] recipient”. And that will include continuing disaster insurance workshops, helping others build chainsaw skills and building first aid skills for others to help each other in the instance of a disaster. 2023 will also bring a new in-person hub in Belgrave for Mums of the Hills members to attend workshops, work and to access mental health support while their children may be playing at Belgrave Kindergarten below. “There’s that struggle where traveling into the city or is really tough when you’ve got to leave the kids in childcare back in the Hills, or you’re wanting to be able to work with people, but you don’t want to have to travel so far away, to be able to do that you want to be with people but you want to be close to your family as well,” Ms Young said. “What we’re hoping to achieve is a continued supportive space, despite our size.” One way of doing that is making a token for MotHs members; made out of a Mountain Ash tree which fell in the June storm. “I know everyone has that same expectation of how to look after each other and how to listen without judgement.” The Australian of the Year award ceremony will be held on 25 January in Canberra, where the national Local Hero will be announced.

It’s been a big year for Belinda Young; being named Victoria Local Hero in the 2023 Australian of the Year awards for her work advocating for the Hills community. In 2023, the organisation Ms Young founded in 2015, MoThs, is set to open an in person hub for its members. 313723 mailcommunity.com.au

2022 - BEST NEWS STORIES

The year in headlines Battle of Belgrave development receives VCAT resolution In January, a five-year battle for the development of a multi-storey complex in Belgrave seems to have finally reached a conclusion, with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) upholding Yarra Ranges Council’s decision to refuse a planning permit. VCAT made the decision after Pulitano Properties appealed a Yarra Ranges Council decision to reject a planning permit application for the development of the site on 29 September 2020. The original permit was submitted in 2017 and faced resistance and objection from local residents. The tribunal sat for 16 days, double the original eight allocated for the matter to be heard. The site at 2-14 Monbulk Road, located within the Belgrave Activity Centre and next to a Puffing Billy railway terminal, was earmarked for the development of a complex featuring a supermarket, shops, a cafe, offices and a childcare centre. Council RidgeWalk project takes shape The three levels of government – council, state and federal – came together at the Silvan Dam lookout in Kalorama for the RidgeWalk sod-turning ceremony. The 39 kilometres of walking track, which includes upgrading old walking tracks and 14km of newly-built paths, is being funded through $2 million each from Yarra Ranges Council and the Victorian State Government, and $5.8 million from the Federal Government. Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child and Deputy Mayor Johanna Skelton joined Casey Federal MP Tony Smith and Monbulk State MP James Merlino to mark the beginning of construction of the RidgeWalk project. Mr Smith and Mr Merlino both retired from politics in 2022. Pieces of history The heritage-listed Puffing Billy Railway Trestle Bridge received repairs this week to replace aging pieces of the famous structure. Built in 1899, the bridge is located over Monbulk Creek on Belgrave-Gembrook Road, Selby and was a significant technical accomplishment when it was built as a part of the Ferntree Gully to Gembrook train line. The bridge is one of the most photographed areas of the Dandenong Ranges, appearing on postcards, paintings and photographs. The works were carried out by Membrey’s, a transport and crane service, on 9 March. The bridge reaches as high as 11 metres are some areas and is made from a timber girder. It was extensively repaired during the early 1980s, with the oldest beam currently still in use dating back to 1914. Logs rescued for community projects Perched atop a hill in The Patch under clear blue skies, three people eagerly await delivery of the huge bodies of trees felled by strong winds in the June 2021 storms. Julia Hall and Anton McMurray from the not-for-profit charity Rescue Logs are waiting with Rob Chewe from VicForests at a factory site on April 26, where a contractor will deliver the second of five deliveries of fallen trees. VicForests is covering the costs of transporting and delivering the logs to the property in the Patch where they will be repurposed into community-focused projects, while Yarra Ranges Council is donating the materials themselves. Ms Hall said the logs have been earmarked for two projects in particular, with a focus on areas hardest hit by the storms. “The first is the Kalorama Park project. We have two parts to it: The first is a playspace with beautiful equipment, which will be very raw and tactile,” she said. New member for Casey elected Aaron Violi has been elected as the new member for Casey, despite the Liberal Party failing to return to government. The Liberal candidate to replace Tony Smith has won the May 21 federal election by a slim margin, leading Labor’s Bill Brindle by 1.5 per cent with 72.2 per cent of votes countmailcommunity.com.au

Phillip Johnson in the native Australian garden set to open to the public in coming months.

Treasuring Our Trees founder David Ferrier with the oak tree from Olinda. Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS ed. When counting is completed, it is likely to be the closest election since 1987. Mr Violi said he would work hard to rep-

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Deputy Mayor Johanna Skelton, Casey MP Tony Smith, Mayor Jim Child, Monbulk MP James Merlino and resident Neil Mitchell turning the sod on the RidgeWalk. Picture: SUPPLIED

resent all residents in the electorate, not only those who voted for him. “It is humbling to think that the people of

Casey have, having trusted me to represent our communities,” he said. Continued page 9 Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

MAIL 7

CLOSE THE DOOR AND HIT THE ROAD APARTMENTS AVAILABLE NOW Start your next adventure and leave your worries behind when you move to Ryman. With 24-hour security, home maintenance and gardening all taken care of, you can head off on any trip you choose and know your home will be as you left it. At Weary Dunlop Retirement Village we have a range of independent and serviced apartments available now. Options include one and two-bedroom luxury apartments that are light and spacious, with balcony or patio options. Conveniently located on Jells Road, near the Wheelers Hill shopping centre, with Jells Park nearby, a perfect place for a scenic walk with friends and family. The village offers a wide variety of activities and events, so you can do the things you love.

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2022 - BEST NEWS STORIES From page 7 One year on from the storms One year ago the Dandenong Ranges was struck by a massive storm event, leaving the region reeling in the aftermath. Today, residents from the hills are still in the process of recovery and restoration from the damage and destruction on June 9 and 10, 2021. The storm is still at the forefront of people’s minds as they return to their homes, wait in temporary accommodation and reflect on the trauma of those gusty winds that changed everything in just a few hours. For many, the power went out as they went to bed without knowing five hours later they would wake to the sound of a tree falling through the centre of their house. Some members of the community have yet to see their houses rebuilt 12 months later and are facing the question of what their next step will be. According to the Insurance Council of Australia, as of May 2022 more than 34,000 claims have been made in Gippsland, the Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Ranges due to the storm weather event, with an estimated insurance loss value of $302.9m. Family continues the fight to rebuild their storm-impacted Kalorama property After Natalie and Lee Guest’s Kalorama home and property were destroyed in the devastating 2021 June storm event, the couple began plans to rebuild on the land they call home alongside their 14-year-old daughter. But almost 13 months later at the end of June 2022, these plans were brought to a halt when the Yarra Ranges Council told the Guest family it would be highly unlikely to approve a future planning application. This decision was made after the land was deemed a ‘moderate’ landslip risk by a report from mandatory geotechnical assessment - a process required on a piece of land covered by an Erosion Management Overlay. -Tyler Wright

Repairs to the famous trestle bridge used by the Puffing Billy at Selby.

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Tributes pour in for Queen Elizabeth II For 70 years Queen Elizabeth II reigned with strength and grace and in the mourning of her death, Yarra Ranges residents have honoured her service in a flood of messages and tributes. 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.” The longest reigning monarch left an impression on both people of the Commonwealth and the world, but it was the glimpses in local communities that inspired people. -Mikayla Van Loon Award-winning garden recreated in Dandenong Ranges An award-winning garden being recreated in the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden will soon be open to the public after months of construction. Olinda-based landscape designer Phillip Johnson’s Australian Garden, the first Australian-made display to win best in show at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2013, and admired by the late Queen Elizabeth II, will soon be a major attraction for residents and visitors to the Hills. A replica 20 times the size of Phillip’s original 7000 square metre garden is being built on what used to be an old golf course in the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, which is now home to an ecosystem of 400 Australian native and 80 different endangered and threatened plant species, as well as a Billabong sustained from the water off nearby rooftops, including that of the Olinda- Ferny Creek Football Club pavilion. -Tyler Wright 300th meal served to the community It’s 4pm on a Monday night and the Upwey Baptist Community Church is buzzing with activity. Cheese and crackers are already prepared as guests begin to arrive, while volunteers in the kitchen busily cut vegetables and prepare casseroles to be served to the 100-plus people who mailcommunity.com.au

Foothills Community Care founder Stephen Barrington. Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE will either eat at the tables set up in the building or take a meal away with them. Tonight is like every other Monday for the vast cast of volunteers who keep Foothills Community Care running, except for one important milestone: it marks the 300th meal they have served at the Upwey Community Dinners. Foothills Community Care founder Stephen Barrington said the meals started as an offshoot of the successful community meals he has held in Ferntree Gully for the last 17 years. -Parker McKenzie Historical building given new life Sherbrooke’s historical Burnham Beeches, first owned by philanthropist Alfred Nicholas, is finally set to be restored to its former glory through a $100 million development after decades of false starts. Owner Trenerry Consortium has gained support from global hospitality company Six Senses in its first Australian venture to deliver a masterplan for the historic site, detailing three experiential zones; the mansion and spa, the village green and the hilltop retreat.

Natalie Guest on her Kalorama property deemed a total loss after the June 2021 storm event. The Yarra Ranges Council have told her and her husband Lee it is unlikely they will be able to approve a planning permit for the family to rebuild. Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

The village green will boast a steakhouse, bakehouse, brew house and providore around a central gathering space, with 82 glamping spots for visitors in a non-permanent site tucked into the topography of the area. The masterplan also includes plans for the Nicholas hall and library, a restaurant, a wellness retreat, a pool house and guestrooms, with the Alfred Nicholas mansion and surrounding gardens being refurbished in accordance with the existing permit. A heritage permit application currently sits with Heritage Victoria, approval of which is essential to delivering the long-term conservation of the property, including the historic mansion. Since 1982, the property has had nine previous owners who sold the property after five years or less due to a lack of commercial viability and the hefty restoration cost of the mansion and existing permit limitations. -Tyler Wright Treasuring our trees When 25,000 trees fell during the June 2021

storm event, arborist David Ferrier was dismayed to see many of them leaving the hills or rotting on the ground. 18 months later, Mr Ferrier has worked to save and repurpose salvaged materials into community projects, school playspaces and works of art. “Welcome to the new home of Treasuring Our Trees. We spent approximately 12 months trying to find our factory showroom and also a processing storage site,” Mr Ferrier told the Star Mail on Thursday 29 November. “Where we are today is the factory showroom that we’re setting up as an education hub in Lilydale.” The industrial site —a gym in a former life — now holds gigantic logs of significant ecological and cultural value, including part of an English oak tree that once stood at the centre of Olinda, a mountain ash tree used as a messaging board during the storms in Kalorama and a shining gum log from a bushfire zone in Gippsland, alongside works of art of salvaged materials and works in progress for community projects. -Parker McKenzie Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

MAIL 9

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.”

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2022 - RETURNING EVENTS MAKE HEADLINES

Coming back together People were able to enjoy major events in the Dandenong Ranges once again in 2022 after two years of cancellations and disruptions. Here are some of the standout events of the year Triumphant return for Halloween On The Green The Philanthropic Collective saw close to 5,000 costume-clad patrons make a trip to Ferny Creek Reserve for Halloween On The Green (HOTG) on Sunday 30 October. It was a triumphant return after a two-year hiatus, with a partnership with B-Alternative involved in the event and all meals on the day served on reusable vessels made from compostable rice husks to reduce waste and the event’s carbon footprint. Highlights included rock royalty, Dave Graney and Clare Moore hitting the main stage along with hills favorites, Charlie Bedford, and local legends Daisy West. Fletchers and Bendigo Bank hosted the best dressed competition with over 10K of prizes on offer with winners announced by James Merlino MP. Event Director and festival creator, Andrew Fillip-Gautier said “mother nature heard our call and came out to shine after the proceeding two weeks were fraught with rain”. “Over 160 volunteers came through the site on the day while just about all vendors sold out. We introduced a waste management system which saved 460kg of wastage from landfill on the day, something we should all be extremely proud of,” Mr Fillip-Gautier said. Kabloom Festival stuns Tesselaar Kabloom’s Festival Of Flowers in Silvan drew in 70,000 visitors in 2022 after two years of cancellations, displaying around 300,000 plants including marigolds, sunflowers and snapdragons. The festival also won gold in the Victorian Tourism Awards’ major festivals and events category at a ceremony in December, beating out the Australian Grand Prix Corporation. “Once you get inside the gates, you experience a totally different utopian world, because we’ve got the fields full of colour, have some special entertainment… the crux of it is is giving them the opportunity to come and enjoy nature and all the special area up here has to offer,” festival director Paul Tesselaar told the Star Mail in December. Circus entertainment was a main focus at the festival, with food trucks, face painting and treasure hunts among the activities. The next Kabloom Festival will be held between 25 March and 25 April in 2023. Return of the Kalorama Chestnut Festival A chainsaw artists featured their work at Kalorama’s Chestnut Festival in 2022, making sculptures out of a fallen chestnut tree to auction off on Sunday 1 May. The 100 per cent volunteer-run festival saw a diverse range of stalls showcasing locally made handcrafts and produce, roasted chestnuts, food stalls at Kalorama Memorial Reserve. “Their support has actually been overwhelming, everyone that we’ve reached out to has offered what we’ve asked and more to be honest,” festival committee member Mariana Job told the Star Mail in May. “We’ve never had so many sponsors, which is really nice after what happened last year. It just feels like a really strong community, we’re a lot closer than we were before the storms.” Kalorama was one of the areas worst affected by the June 2021 storm weather event and both Mt Dandenong Kindergarten and Mt Dandenong Primary School had their buildings damaged, with some repairs still ongoing. SelbyFest 2022 a huge success Selby Community House’s SelbyFest drew a crowd of over 1000 attendees in 2022, showcasing an exciting music lineup with entertainment offered by local musicians and buskers throughout the afternoon on Saturday 26 November. Local radio station 3MDR took over music programming on an outside music stage and within Selby Community House. The festival buzzed with activities, with over 30 diverse stallholders and community organisations lining the road and situated throughout Selby Community House. The kids mailcommunity.com.au

Halloween On The Green made a triumphant return to Ferny Creek Reserve on Sunday 30 October.

Picture: JUST ALL IMAGES

Tesselaar’s Kabloom Festival attracted 70,00 visitors in its return after a two-year hiatus. Picture: TYLER WRIGHT activities were popular including robotics delivered by the Belgrave Library, the local Police mingled with festival goers, the local church offered cup cakes for decoration and the community interacted with environmental groups, wellbeing, arts, crafts and a very special butterfly house. Selby Community House and 3MDR gratefully acknowledge Yarra Ranges Council who provided a large community events grant which supported delivery of a fun filled event. As a way to enjoy the environment, walks were offered through Minak Reserve, and an activity was offered in the Indigenous bushfoods garden. The Wild Playground featuring its own mega wombat, or diprotodon, was a hit with kids. Combo Keg served drinks in the afternoon and “Green My Plate” cleaned up the re-used plates and cutlery to reduce the festivals footprint and support sustainability. SelbyFest 2023 will be on again around the same time next year. Locals celebrate webbed-footed friends Over 300 people attended Southern Dandenong’s Landcare Group’s Platypus Festival at Belgrave Lake Park on Saturday 8 October, after cancellations in 2020 and 2021. The festival looks to bring awareness to the species, which is present in Monbulk Creek and is a species in decline. According to Vinnie Aulich, Environmental Volunteer and Project Support Officer at Yarra Ranges Council, their habitat has shrunk by at least 22 per cent in the last 30 years. With Aunty Joy conducting a welcome to country at the festival, Troy Charles entertained the crowd with music and Melbourne Water holding interactive stalls alongside wildlife education business Blacksnake Productions. A tree planting was led by Yarra Ranges Council and the Southern Dandenongs Landcare Group, with president Rob Pergl leading a site walk to talk about habitat and the history of Belgrave Lake Park.

Local artist Renate Crow making a platypus lantern with attendees at the Platypus Festival on Sunday 8 October. Picture: SUPPLIED

Over 1000 attendees flocked to SelbyFest in 2022.

Picture: KATE CASHIN PHOTOGRAPHY Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

MAIL 11

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

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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

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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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MAIL 13

2022 - BEST PICTURES

In January, Ferntree Gully resident Jan McFadyen received an Order of Australia on Australia Day for her work donating quilts to those in need. 266229 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

In April, Emerald Football Club and Gembrook -Cockatoo Football Club’s Outer East Football League Division One teams met in a met in a fiercely contested Anzac Weekend clash. 277795 Picture: ROB CAREW

In October, the 1000 steps attraction was opened to the public once again after the June 2021 storm event, with walkers like Nick and Sian (pictured) able to enjoy the beautiful scenery in Tremont. 301723 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

In July, a Belgrave family aimed to fundraise $25,000 for surgeries for their in-training support dog Padfoot with daughter April (pictured) raising $10,000 through the sale of origami items and donations. 289758 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Snap shots of the year Dandenong Ranges residents, events and businesses continued to win awards, advocate for their communities and shared the love of their community in 2022. The Star Mail captured some of the best moments of the year. The Kalorama community rallied around Kapi Art Space, and its managing director Heather Bradbury, after is gallery was severley damaged in August when a stolen Audi ploughed through its front barrier. 296902 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

The Star Mail spoke to Monbulk resident Leharna Black one year after the June storm when she had moved into her repaired home. Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS 284084

Treasuring Our Trees opened its Lilydale showroom in December. 311000 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Publish

Tuesda

Belgrave-based distillery GinFinity won the Best Australian Signature Botanical at the World Gin Awards in February for its bubblegum gin.

In July, two new art installations were unveiled at the end of Mason Grove in 287745 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

In July, Graeme Taylor, Chris Thompson, Brett Barker and Patsy Parnall called for the rebuild of Cockatoo Railway Station’s buildings including a verandah and restrooms. 288804 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

In March, the Story of the Big Storm was read to primary students at the Dandenong Ranges Steiner School. Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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In May, Emerald SES Unit was named the third busiest unit in Victoria for the year, with 1,971 requests for assistance. 281590 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Cardinia Shire Council officially reopened the Gembrook Skate Park in October, with Raff, Aaron and Zak pictured with a YMCA representative. 301321 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

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EQUESTRIAN FACILITIES WITH FLOWER FARM THIS property has it all! It will make a fabulous home for a family or a haven for any horse enthusiast, and boasts position and views for anyone wanting a tree change – or you can enjoy all of the above. Set on 23.6 acres the property is a combination of bush/creek area and cleared land, which includes horse amenities as well as a flower farm that harvests protea, waratahs and the like. The equestrian infrastructure includes an Olympic size 60 x 25m flood lit arena, a stable complex with 10 stables, including an undercover barn with 8 large 9 x 4.5m looseboxes, 2 post and rail day yards, feed and tack rooms, hay storage shed, hot wash facilities, undercover truck and float parking, and Shockcoat fencing to 9 paddocks. The property also provides luxury for the owners with a 50+ square home that offers four bedrooms, three living areas and three bathrooms. The views from this home are outstanding looking across the valley. The home has hydronic heating to keep you toasty as well as a wood fire in the lounge room. The master bedroom, with its own balcony, has a sizeable dressing room that includes a large ensuite with shower and toilet. The second and third bedrooms have built in robes and are serviced by the

family bathroom and the fourth bedroom has access to the 3rd bathroom, perfect for guests. The kitchen is gorgeous with stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances, gas oven, and bifold servery windows opening onto the sensational deck where you can entertain the masses. The home can also be entered through a breezeway with a mudroom and has the additional lovely surprise of a teenager’s retreat. Externally there is a sealed circular drive with electric gates both ends, two large double carports, a 2-bay garage, a chicken pen/ dog run, large veggie patch, fruit trees, a hot house, a potting house, under house storage and a huge high bay shed. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 8 Cherry Road, AVONSLEIGH Description: 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 6 garage Price: Asking $2,500,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Samantha Scott 0438 680 032, BELL REAL ESTATE, EMERALD

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

Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

MAIL 15

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. ●

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

Time for a home loan health check! With interest rates on the rise, there’s never been a better time to review your home loan. We’ll look at your rate, term, repayments, and equity, giving your loan a full check-up to make sure it’s still right for you and your current needs. Enquire online at bendigobank.com.au/healthcheck or call your nearest branch on 03 9754 1200.

*Source: Roy Morgan Single Source Australia, March 2022. All loans are subject to the bank’s normal lending criteria. Fees, charges, terms and conditions apply. Please consider your situation and read the Terms and Conditions, available online at www.bendigobank.com.au or upon request from any Bendigo Bank branch, before making a decision. Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178 AFSL 237879 (1676698-1734981) (05/22) OUT_26409233, 25/10/2022

16 MAIL

Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

12584701-JC02-22

Community Bank ¥ Upwey 9754 1200 ¥ Belgrave 9752 6606 ¥ Cockatoo-Gembrook 5968 8831

mailcommunity.com.au

P 5968 6222 311-313 Main Street Emerald

13 Station Road, Gembrook

$900,000 - $990,000

Gorgeous Victorian Cottage on 2899sqm Subdividable (STCA), Sunny, Flat Block! A nearly 100-year-old, 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with 2 living areas & stunning gardens, on the largest block in the area & has been extensively & sympathetically renovated & is near completion. With a large master bedroom with ensuite & WIR, 2 further large bedrooms & character bathrooms & the home features 10ft ceilings, picture rails, ornate ceiling roses and cornicing, front wrap around porch, a spacious kitchen with gas cooker & woodfire stove from the original home. All mains services connected, a open fire in the formal lounge & mains gas ducted heating throughout. Enjoy the private, sunny, fully fenced backyard with a veggie patch, established flowering trees, a large shed/ workshop with concrete floor and power, a double carport, & a single lock up garage. Samantha Scott M 0438 680 032

23 Maisey Road, Gembrook

24 Moxhams Road, Monbulk

Country living with convenience, walk to Monbulk Main Street! This welcoming light filled home with plentiful verandahs and decking for entertaining, provides 3 large bedrooms all with BIRs and ceiling fans, a family bathroom and a powder room. This home features high ceilings, a modern kitchen with a gas cooktop and electric oven, and an open plan living area encompassing a double sided wood fire heater. There is also evaporative cooling, ducted heating, split system unit in the expansive lounge room, & ducted vacuum system. The concreted driveway with dual access leads to the DLUG with side door access & electric roller door. There is a 6.6kW Solar Panel system, as well as fruit trees & hedging trees along the boundary to ensure your privacy in this picturesque location that is a short stroll to the Monbulk Main street and amenities. Samantha Scott M 0438 680 032

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

$870,000 - $950,000

8 Cherry Road, Avonsleigh

Asking $2,500,000

Brilliant views across the Gembrook landscape!

Equestrian facilities with amazing home, views & flower business on 23.6 acres!

This generous 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, family home, has a sealed driveway, front verandah, and is on an acre with great views. The master bedroom has a ceiling fan, WIR, & ensuite. This character filled home has a generous study nook, a sunken lounge room with wood fire heater, split system air-conditioning, & a stunning cathedral ceiling in the dining room. The kitchen has a gas stove top, electric oven & dishwasher. The further bedrooms have ceiling fans & BIRs, utilising the family bathroom with shower & corner spa. The rumpus room provides a teenagers retreat/working from home potential. There is a chicken run, vegetable gardens, & several sheds, including a wood shed, a 6m*3m and a 3m*3m shed, and a 10m by 9m DLUG with electric doors, concrete floor & workshop area. The backyard is fully fenced. This home also offers a 6.6kW solar power system.

The equestrian infrastructure includes an Olympic size 60x25m flood lit arena, a stable complex with 10 stables, including an undercover barn with 8 large 9x4.5m looseboxes, 2 post & rail day yards, feed & tack rooms, hay storage shed, hot wash facilities, undercover truck & float parking, & Shockcoat fencing to 9 paddocks. The 50+ square home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 living areas & 3 bathrooms & has hydronic heating, wood fire, breeze way plus a teenagers retreat. The master bedroom has a balcony, dressing room, & ensuite. 2nd & 3rd bedrooms with BIRs. The kitchen features stone benchtops, & stainless steel appliances & gas oven. Externally there is a sealed circular drive with electric gates, 2 large double carports, a 2-bay garage, a chicken pen/ dog run, large veggie patch, fruit trees, a hot house, a potting house, under house storage & a huge high bay shed.

Aaron Day M 0407 365 994

Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451

Samantha Scott M 0438 680 032

bellrealestate.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

MAIL 17

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. l

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 18 MAIL

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

2 T

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4 T

3 T

5 T

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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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9 T

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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.

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

MAIL 19

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 20 MAIL

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

MAIL 21

PUZZLES

10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

H J 14

Z N R O P X B E I WUMK 1

9-LETTER WORD

6 9 easy

medium

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”.

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

8 5 3 7 4 9 6 1 2

4 9 2 3 8 5 6 7 1

3 1 5 4 6 7 9 2 8

7 6 8 9 2 1 3 4 5

46 words: Excellent

8 2 7 6 9 4 1 5 3

9 3 1 2 5 8 7 6 4

5 4 6 1 7 3 8 9 2

1 5 3 7 4 6 2 8 9

2 7 4 8 1 9 5 3 6

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4 7 2 6 1 8 3 5 9

6 3 5 2 7 4 9 8 1

2 8 7 1 9 6 5 3 4

1 9 4 8 5 3 7 2 6

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7 1 9 4 8 5 2 6 3

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hard

R N

3 5 8 6 2 1 9 7 4

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9 2 1 7 3 4 6 8 5

1 9 2 3 4 7 5 6 8

8 3 6 5 1 9 7 4 2

4 7 5 8 6 2 1 9 3

5 8 7 1 9 3 4 2 6

6 4 3 2 7 5 8 1 9

2 1 9 4 8 6 3 5 7

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

4 LETTERS DOGS EARN EARS ERAS NEAT SALE SLED STEM TONE TYRE 5 LETTERS ACORN ANGST ANKLE ANTIC AORTA APRON

BASER BASKS CIRCA EMAIL ENDED ENDER ENEMA ERROR GENIE GLOAT LANES LASER LASTS LOUSE MANES NIECE OCTAL ONION POISE POLAR

attire, earn, entrain, entrant, inert, inertia, inner, inter, intern, intra, irate, ITINERANT, natter, nattier, near, nitrate, nitre, nitrite, rain, rani, rant, rate, ratite, rein, rent, retain, retina, rite, tanner, tare, tarn, tart, tear, tern, tertian, tetra, tier, tinier, tinnier, titre, train, trait, treat, triennia, trine, trite

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WORDY WRATH

IMPENDS ORDERLY STIRRED

6 LETTERS ACORNS APPEAL MALTED MEREST SCARCE SEDATE 7 LETTERS ADVERSE CLAMPED ENTWINE

8 LETTERS ACREAGES ASSENTED ASTEROID CONCOCTS 10 LETTERS EVERYWHERE REFLECTORS

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No. 115

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No. 115

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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

No. 115

$ 1 * 6 7

SUDOKU

13-01-23

William Matthews Funerals 24 HOUR SERVICE - ALL AREAS

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

22 MAIL

Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

mailcommunity.com.au

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, portraymailcommunity.com.au

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 Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

MAIL 23

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services V Deadline

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Summer holiday book haul By Christine Sun According to Jason Steger, literary editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, the Christmas/new year season is the crucial time for booksellers, when they make 25-30 per cent of their annual revenue. And, to quote Brittany Bunzey, associate manager of content strategy for Barnes and Noble: “Whether you’re a book collector or someone who only buys books on occasion, I think we can all agree that the best time to buy books is when they’re on sale.” It is true that there is no such thing as too many books – just too few bookshelves. Fortunately, having encountered this problem in recent years, this reviewer discovered Eastern Regional Libraries and its seemingly

limitless collection of print and digital books, Which is why this reviewer hardly buys books these days – except during the “silly season” when bookstores offer incredible discounts on their products. Below are six books that this reviewer recently bought from Booktopia, “Australia’s leading online bookstore with over four million titles”. These will soon be reviewed for our readers via this column. The holiday book haul started with Malaysian author Tan Twan Eng’s The Gift of Rain, which was longlisted for the 2007 Man Booker Prize. It is to be followed by the author’s second novel The Garden of Evening Mists, which won the Man Asian Literary Prize and was shortlisted for the Man Book Prize in 2012.

The second title is Chinese Australian author Wai Chim’s The Surprising Power of a Good Dumpling, which won the 2020 Indie Book Awards – Best Young Adult Novel. As a maker and devourer of dumplings, this reviewer was instantly and impulsively drawn to the story. The third purchase is Australian author Mirandi Riwoe’s novella The Fish Girl, which won the 2017 Seizure Viva La Novella Prize and was shortlisted for the 2018 Stella Prize. It is a precursor to reading the author’s 2020 novel Stone Sky Gold Mountain, a comparison to American author C Pam Zhang’s 2020 debut novel How Much of These Hills is Gold. The fourth is Australian author Sonia Orchard’s 2019 novel Into the Fire, a book that this reviewer knew nothing about but pur-

chased anyway in order to get free shipping for two other titles. Surely this “perceptive, provoking story” will be an interesting read? The fifth book is Scotland-based Australian author Daniel Davis Wood’s At the Edge of the Solid World, which was shortlisted for the 2021 Miles Franklin Literary Award. Having attempted but failed twice to complete this 467-page “extraordinary novel about the limits of grief” in 2022, to own it now for the bargain price of $12 is absolutely awesome. And, finally, this reviewer eagerly awaits the safe arrival of Nagi Maehashi’s RecipeTinEats: Dinner, which, according to Nielsen BookData, is the #1 bestselling book for this Christmas/New Year season in Australia. It sounds silly, but this title was acquired purely for the recipe of the author’s make-ahead, freezable lemon cheesecake.

A program of theatre not to be missed in 2023 The 1812 Theatre Program 2023:

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Directed by Chris Proctor Season: February – March 4. The Shoehorn Sonata by John Mistro Directed by Andrew Ferguson. Season: March 23 – April 22. Waiting for God by Michael Atkins. Directed by Ned Bennett. Season: May 18 – June 10. Lord of the Flies by William Golding & Adapted by Nigel Williams. Directed by Tamara Dahmen Season: June 27 – July 8. Picnic at Hanging Rock by Joan Lindsay Adapted by Tom Wright. Directed by dexter Bourke,

curtain call Season: August 3 – 26. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck. Directed by Malcolm Sussman Season: October 5 – 28. Art by Yasmin Reza translated by Christopher Hampton. Directed by Justin Stephens. Season: November 16 – December 10.

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Short plays featuring the talents of young writers, directors and actors. The Basin Theatre Program for 2023: Two and Two together by Derek Benfield Directed by Bob Bramble Season: February 23 – March 5. The Basin Talent Showcase. MC Jacinta Parsons ABC Radio Presenter A wide variety of acts will be on show at this event. It is ot a competition, but a celebration of the best talent in the community. Season: Sunday March 12. Same Time Next Year by Bernard Slade Directed by Lisa Niven. Season: April 20 – 30.

Shorts presented · Short Youth Theatre.

Additional Events: The 1812 Theatre holds a variety of short season events throughout the year, refer to the website for current details and dates. Some examples are Spoken Word Intimate evenings featuring works by local poets and actors. Live Music Sessions The Sounds of Silence – Buster Keaton in The Cameraman Live band accompanying silent classics to recreate the silent movie experience from the 1920s. Board Shorts 2023 Silent Play Festival A program of shot plays featuring works from talented local playwrights.

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2022 - BEST SPORT STORIES

Leigh Kimpton celebrates his 100th goal of the season.

Picture: EASTERN FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Gembrook-Cockatoo Football Club head coach Brad Coller in the Gembrook Recreation Reserve temporary change room, speaking to the seniors in a temporary change room in June. Picture: ROB CAREW

Local sporting triumphs Disbelief, shock…Warne inspired a nation It’s been so hard to process and digest the news of the death of the biggest superstar Australian cricket has ever seen…world cricket in fact - it’s simply impossible to comprehend the death of Shane Keith Warne. And coming off the news, just a day earlier, that another legend of Australian cricket – Rod Marsh – had also passed away…it’s just compounded the pain. Warne’s on-field brilliance, transforming the then-dying art of leg-spin bowling into the coolest act in the game, and his off-field antics that kept us equally as entertained made the great Victorian the absolute supreme package. The cricketing genius of Don Bradman, mixed with the flair of Keith Miller…Warney had it all! A century for Silvan Silvan Football Club’s Leigh Kimpton scored his 100th goal of the season over the weekend during his team’s 81-point win against Chirnside Park on Saturday 6 August. 31-year-old Kimpton said he hit the milestone in his 4th season with the club, after previously recording a high of 79 in his first season with the team. “It was from a tight angle, about 45 meters out,” he said. “I’m still probably thinking it over a little bit, but we knew this could happen and everyone ran onto the field.” 125 years of Monbulk Cricket Club On November 20 1897, Monbulk Cricket Club played its inaugural game against Seville. 125 years later to the day, the two clubs will meet again to celebrate the monumental anniversary and the launch of the club’s new history book. 125 Not Out: A History of the Monbulk Cricket Club 1897-2022 has been researched and written over the past two years by life member Greg Hardy, chronicling the club’s founding to the modern day. The club will host Seville during the 125year celebration at Monbulk Recreational Reserve on Sunday November 20, with a full day featuring a junior cricket T10 game at 10.30am, the book at 12pm, a best 12 and legends team announced at 12.30pm, a finger food lunch, a junior blasters session and the senior T10 match at 2pm before a post-match presentation. VCFA final drama Monbulk Rangers Soccer Club Reserve 2 team in the Men’s Premier League (MPL) took out the Victorian Churches Football Association (VCA) President’s Shield Cup Final on Saturday 10 September, defeating Lilydale Eagles in a remarkable game that saw their opposition 26 MAIL

Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

Players and coaches celebrate winning promotion to the Victorian Women’s Premier League. miss four penalty kicks in a row. In the first half, Lilydale were awarded two penalties, with both being expertly saved by goalkeeper Liam. Lilydale missed their first two efforts from the spot during the shootout after scores were level at full time, while Monbulk was clinical — with goalkeeper Liam stepping up to blast his penalty into the top corner — before Monbulk converted their fourth of the shootout to win 4-1. Promotion Joy for Monbulk Ranges Monbulk Rangers Soccer Club will play in the second-highest tier of Victorian women’s football next year after achieving promotion on the final day of the 2022 season. After seeing off a spirited Mazenod Football Club 4-3 in the team’s last game of the season on Sunday 28 August, Monbulk finished second in the Women’s State League 1 South-East

Picture: JACQUI HOLT/HALF TIME SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY

competition, winning promotion alongside first-placed Ringwood City. Monbulk Rangers coach Aaron Jones said the promotion was a testament to the hard work of the players, volunteers and coaching staff involved in the team. “I’m lost for words in terms of how much it means to everyone, it’s pretty surreal,” he said. “It was euphoric for the players on that day. To see them grow throughout the season and have an achievement like that together as a team, that’s the reason I coach.” Pavilion finally opens It’s a “bittersweet” feeling for Gembrook-Cockatoo Football Club senior coach Brad Coller as Cardinia Shire Council officially opens of the $2.5 Gembrook Recreation Reserve pavilion; a project three years in the making. Since their home game in August 2019,

players have since adjusted to three football seasons with makeshift showers, portable change rooms throughout winter and no canteen, with some additional assistance from opposing teams. “It got to the point where it was laughable, everyone didn’t care anymore because at the start you’re like ‘oh yeah, It’s starting to look good and taking shape, and ‘we’re going to be in soon’...but it got to a point where everyone tuned out to what was in the background...because we had no trust or belief in any of the works [getting] done any time soon,” Coller said. Coller said Belgrave Football Club offered its facilities for a home game where Gembrook-Cockatoo could run the gate, and the Gembrook RSL provided a space for the club to hold its Thursday night meals and selections, with players changing clothes in the muddy and freezing winter conditions. mailcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Belgrave in the top two It was the best on-field start to a season the Belgrave Cricket Club senior mens program has had in the last 15 years across the top two teams, with the 2nd XI currently undefeated after winning 6 consecutive games. At the Christmas break, the team was sitting equal second. The mens 1st XI started the season slowly with 2 losses and 1 draw but have now won 4 in a row to sit outright 2nd on the ladder leading into the Christmas break. In the final game of 2022, the 1st XI took on Eildon Park at Belgrave reserve and a disappointing bowling and fielding effort saw the team needing to chase down 269 off 40 overs to win, a total the side chased successfully in one day cricket. After losing a few wickets early, Belgrave got the run rate under control thanks to opener Reece Schelfhout hitting 53 off 29 balls including 9 fours and 2 sixes. A few more wickets fell and Belgrave found themselves in a bit of trouble at 4/100, needing a further 169 runs to win off only 30 overs. Enter 15-year-old Ronan Culloty and one of our former WACA premier cricketers, Chad Hitchcock. Ronan who made his 1st XI debut at the age of 14 and was only taking the field for the 1s in his 20th match at 15 years old was faced with a tall order to guide the side home to a much-needed win to solidify the place in the top 4. Ronan played with the confidence and bravery you would expect from a 200-game veteran, running hard between the wickets, working the ball around the field beautifully and punishing the bad balls to finish on a well compiled 97 off 86 balls including 11 fours and 3 sixes. Ronan was ably supported by the mature head of Chad Hitchcock who hit 64 off 54 balls including six fours and two sixes and together they put on 168 runs, in the process breaking a club record 1st XI fifth wicket partnership which has stood for 40 years since 1982/83. The 1st XI headed into the Christmas break outright second on the ladder and both our 3rd and 4th XI men’s sides sits one game outside the four. It’s an exciting time to get back involved in the club and sport, which would welcome off-field volunteers and senior players for either our men’s or women’s program. The cricket season resumes on Saturday 14 January, when Belgrave plays Upper Ferntree Gully. The club’s junior program has been a huge success in 2022, with the number of sides doubling from 2021 to now include a second Super 7s team, the first stage 2 girls junior side and the under 14s getting up and running again

Exciting times ahead for Upwey-Tecoma cricketers After two seasons affected by coronavirus, the Upwey-Tecoma Cricket Club was looking forward to getting back to normal. However, mother nature had other ideas, with wet weather playing havoc with the first month of the fixture. It wouldn’t be until early November that cricket would be back in full swing. There have been plenty of great results at Tigerland, both from a team and individual perspective. The First XI is well-positioned heading into the second half of the season, sitting third on the ladder with a record of 5 wins and 2 losses. English import Julian Whetstone was on fire with both bat and ball, reaching the break with 263 runs and 11 wickets to cement himself as one of the competition’s premier all-rounders. Skipper Jackson Waters has also been solid with the bat compiling 262 runs, while speedster Cam Wheeler has collected 13 scalps to be leading the competition. The Women’s XI is sitting just inside the top four in the fledgling Women’s League. Captain Jacqui Cooke has led from the front with the bat with 103 runs, with German

international Nicola Wachter showing great signs as a wicket-keeping all-rounder. Kaitlyn Roleff, playing her first season of cricket. has been superb in all facets of the game (75 runs, 4 wickets) and will be looking to continue her good form heading into finals The Second XI is a game clear on top of the table in Division 3 after a near-flawless start to their year. The evergreen Chris Jewell has amassed a mammoth 289 runs at an average of 96, ably supported by youngster Liam Dunning with 254 at 127. The Third XI, Fourth XI and Fifth XI have all struggled to put wins on the board but results have taken a backseat to the significant development of some of the younger Tigers making their way into the senior ranks. The Under 16’s have overcome a sluggish start to their season to be sitting fourth at the break. Captain Oskar Taylor has starred with the bat, with 122 runs at 61. New recruit Kasey Richardson has made an incredible start to his time as a Tiger, snaring 8 wickets at an average of 4.88. It’s exciting times ahead at Upwey-Tecoma as they head to the second half of the year with plenty to play for.

Match winner Ronan on the field for Belgrave. Picture: SUPPLIED and now sitting 3rd on the ladder at the Christmas break. One of the Under 14s players, Nicko Litterbach, made his senior club debut at the age of 12 this season and took the field with his dad, Iain Litterbach. In a fitting outcome, Nicko took his first wicket with Dad taking a wonderful catch on the boundary. Another great effort worth mentioning is Eli Morgan in the fast 9s who on the weekend before Christmas hit a mammoth 53 not out retired off 23 balls including 8 fours and 3 sixes. Overall, the juniors is going from strength to strength with the club’s strategic focus on ensuring all participants get a fair go regardless of ability a smash hit with the kids and parents alike. The junior girls’ side is full for the season but we would welcome any additional players aged between 7 and 14 to join us for the second half of the season as well as any local community members looking for volunteering opportunities to support off the field, the club can help to secure volunteer working with children checks free of charge.

Upwey-Tecoma’s Oskar Taylor after a century in the rep carnival.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Time to shine on the pitch for Monbulk juniors Four Monbulk Cricket Club Juniors represented the Ferntree Gully and District Cricket Association (FTGDCA) in the recent VMCU carnival, with Grace Hourigan playing in the U17 girls team, Lucas McIntosh (who was named captain) and Sam Blenkiron playing in the U16 team and Will Blenkiron in the U14 team. In the first match, Lucas McIntosh made his first ever century against the Eastern CA, making 100 retired from 106 balls which included a massive 226 run partnership with UpweyTecoma’s Oskar Taylor who also made a century. Junior Blasters co-ordinator and 1st XI player Tom Watson organised for some lucky Blasters kids to attend the fourth day of the recent Boxing Day Test match at the MCG, with the kids and parents enjoying the amazing experience. Monbulk Cricket Club’s junior Stars will head to the MCG on Thursday 12 Jan and participate in a lap of honour for last season’s U14 premiers. The first match back for all seniors teams will held on Saturday 14 January, with all juniors re-commencing the following week. mailcommunity.com.au

Some of Monbulk Cricket Club’s junior Blasters visited the MCG on the fourth day of the Boxing Day Test.

Lucas McIntosh made his first ever century against the Eastern CA at the recent VMCU carnival. Pictures: SUPPLIED Tuesday, 10 January, 2023

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