Mail - Upper Yarra Star Mail - 17th January 2023

Upper Yarra

Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

Mail

Confirmation millions cut from sealing roads program

Air tankers make a splash for training drills

RSL member becomes Victorian life member

Rates clip buyers wings from purchasing

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A Star News Group Publication

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A large crew of supporters turned out to join in or cheer on Erchana Murray-Bartlett from Warburton to Lilydale.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

Erchana Bartlett-Murray strides through the scenery.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Record breaker

By Callum Ludwig Growing up in Seville, the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail has been a great asset for marathon runner Erchana Murray-Bartlett.

It came in handy for exactly 150 days of marathons in her incredible Tip to Toe campaign, running a marathon every day from Cape York until she reached Port Melbourne.

On Saturday 14 January, she completed Day 148 running from Warburton to Lilydale before completing the amazing feat on Monday 16 January.

Ms Murray-Bartlett said the whole experi-

ence has been life-changing.

“I’ve had such an incredible time, it definitely hasn’t been without its lows, when you’re running a marathon every single day there’s a component of it that hurts a lot but it’s funny that my body has adapted at a distance but I think I’m running on fumes now,” she said.

The entire effort is a journey of 6200 kilometres, with Ms Murray-Bartlett taking on a variety of stunning terrain from mountains and valleys to forests and trails to townships that join in to support her along the way.

Ms Murray-Bartlett started her local leg of the journey on Saturday from the COG Bike

Cafe at 42 Station Road, Warburton, setting off at 7am to avoid the scorching heat. With stops and taking it slowly factored in, she arrived at her finish near the Lilydale train station at about 11.30am, with a number of locals joining in on foot or on bikes.

Ms Murray-Bartlett said this was the run she’d been most looking forward to.

“I grew up in Seville, went to Seville Primary School and Lilydale High School, it’s my home.

I ran on that trail all of my life and even leading up to this to train, it’s gonna feel almost like a finish line of its own because it is just going to be running past my childhood homes and

friends houses,” she said.

“I think I’ll have a good crowd of people around me as well, and these are the people I ran with all my life or I competed against growing up. It’s a different feeling when it’s your own hometown, it just hits home differently.”

As part of her superhuman effort, Ms Murray-Bartlett is now officially a Guinness World Record Holder, now holding the record for the most consecutive marathons run by a woman, which she managed on Saturday 3 December 2022, reaching 107, this has of course now extended.

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IN BRIEF Yarra Ranges crime reduces in 2022

Spike in incidents The Yarra Ranges Local Government Area saw an increase in family incidents in the first nine months of 2022 compared to the previous year, despite a decrease in overall criminal incidents being reported.

According to data released by Crime Statistics Agency Victoria on 15 December, there were 2,048 family incidents in the Yarra Ranges from January to September 2022, an 18.8 per cent increase compared to the first nine months of 2021.

A family incident is an “incident attended

by Victoria Police where a Victoria Police Risk Assessment and Risk Management Report was completed.” Of those 2,048 incidents, 1,440 of the affected family members were women and 600 were men.

Yarra Ranges Council Director of Communities Jane Price said violence against women continues to be one of the most serious issues in the community.

“Local government has an important role to play in influencing change through the delivery of our programs and services, setting behavioural and cultural standards, and working to change systems and structures that contribute to inequality,” she said.

“Yarra Ranges Council is creating a workplace where women, men, and gender diverse people from all backgrounds have equitable access to resources, power, and opportunities.”

She said preventing violence against women is one of the seven goals of the council’s Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021-2025 and the council works in partnership and provides funding for vital organisations like Orange Door, Eastern Legal Community Care and EDVOS.

The Yarra Ranges Local Government Area saw an increase in family incidents in the first nine months of 2022 compared to the previous year.

Picture: ON FILE “In our prevention role, we work with key settings such as schools, early childhood centres and sporting clubs to promote gender equity,” she said.

“We collaborate with community health, State Government, community and local domestic violence services, leading and partnering on programs to promote gender equity.”

Orange Door, a free service for adults, children and young people experiencing or have experienced family violence and for families needing support for children, is listed as the specialist family violence service in Melbourne’s Eastern Metropolitan Region on Yarra Ranges Council’s website.

A Family Safety Victoria Spokesperson said Orange Door in Outer Eastern Melbourne provides much-needed family violence and wellbeing support for families when they need it close to home.

“Victoria is leading the nation with its work to end family violence, with more than $3.7 billion invested since the Royal Commission into Family Violence: more than every other

state and territory combined,” the spokesperson said.

“Local residents can access support by phone and email, or face-to-face in Croydon.

We’re ensuring that help and support are available across the region no matter where you live.”

The rate of family incidents in the Yarra Ranges was 1,306.2 per 100,000 people, which was below the Victorian average of 1,387.9.

Statewide, the statistics showed a decrease in overall family incidents around Victoria, despite the increase in the Yarra Ranges LGA. Ms Price said some of the previous council projects include e-safety social media defence seminars for women and girls in Yarra Ranges, the Men as Caregivers poster series, Creating a Place for Women in Sport tool, Rest and Rejuvenate spaces for women and the Taking it Step by Step Mentoring Women project.

“Everyone in the community has a role to play in preventing violence against women: by examining our attitudes and behaviours, by treating others with respect and, importantly, by challenging unacceptable behaviour when we see or hear it - online, from friends and family members and from strangers.”

The Orange Door Outer Eastern Melbourne is open Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm. For more information, visit orangedoor. vic.gov.au.

If you or someone you know is at risk of family violence, the following services can be contacted: EDVOS - 9259 4200.

Orange Door - 1800 271 150.

Eastern Community Legal Centre - 1300 325 200 Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre - 1800 015 188 (24hrs)

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Thousands raised by 150 day effort

In times of crisis, you can give

The initial goal of $10 for every kilometre ran, for a total of $62,000, has already been smashed out of the park, currently at over $101,000.

On Friday 13 January, she even received an Honorary Life Membership from the Wilderness Society for her efforts.

Ms Murray-Bartlett said now that she has hit the fundraising target, she no longer has a new goal for money raised.

“If you hit your target, I believe your next goals should always be to aim as high as you can. I don’t have a numbers goal now, but I do hope it will go a lot higher, and I’ve got some high hopes it will,” she said.

The money raised will go towards the Wilderness Society’s efforts in educating communities on acting on the extinction, supporting work to see Australia’s nature protected and advocating towards protecting Australia’s natural ecosystems and the wildlife that call them home.

Ms Murray-Bartlett said she has always

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CFA, Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria responded to reports of a vehicle accident on the Warburton Highway, Warburton at 9.10pm yesterday, 12 January.

Four CFA vehicles from Warburton and Wesburn brigades responded.

Upon arrival, it was determined it was a single vehicle rollover with no one trapped and a stop was called on the incident at 9.26pm.

Wandin CFA Open Day The Wandin Fire Brigade’s 2023 open day will be held on Thursday 26 January (Australia Day) alongside Rotary Club of Wandin’sfamily Fun Day at Wandin Oval from 10am-3pm.

The event is a great opportunity to come and meet your local brigade members, with truck and station tours, rescue demonstrations, property and bushfire tips and recruitment information as well as kids activities, a sausage sizzle and an ice cream truck.

New tech for road recovery The Australian Road Research Board’s Intelligent Pavement Assessment Vehicle (iPAVe) is set to join Victoria’s road recovery blitz, assessing the condition of more than 8,400 kilometres of Victoria’s roads in the wake of recent floods and extreme rainfall, gathering a broad spectrum of data.

The Warburton and Melba Highways have been slated for maintenance previously.

The collected data will help plan for upcoming large-scale repairs and road maintenance across both regional and metropolitan Victoria.

Equipped with a range of data collection systems, iPAVe is capable of assessing both the structural and functional condition of the road, using laser technology to look at characteristics including roughness, surface texture and rutting.

Cracking and other surface data is assessed using an automated 3D monitoring system, while cameras mounted to the truck’s exterior will give road maintenance experts a firsthand look at the state’s road network.

Thanks to an on-board ground-penetrating radar, the iPAVe can also collect sub-surface data at the same time, giving experts a better understanding of what’s happening underneath the road surface.

These datasets are collected at the same time, in one trip, at highway speed, making the iPAVe a cheaper, faster and safer way to collect intelligence.

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loved Australian wildlife, particularly growing up in the Yarra Valley surrounded by wilderness, green places and all the animals that live there.

“As I got older and realised Australia was in the midst of an extinction crisis, I thought it would be worthy to counteract a bad world record, which is Australia being a world leader of biodiversity loss with a good world record.”

“Of the places I’ve run so far, Cape York was interesting, so different to what we have in the Yarra Valley. The mountains in the Blue Ranges were incredible, such vast wilderness and I’m always excited to run through there, even the high plains of Mt Buller, Mt Hotham and Mt Feathertop were beautiful as well. I really liked the Great Sandy National Park as well, it was an almost infinite forest. I’ve been to some very special places.”

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From page 1 Ms Murray-Bartlett said it was a good feeling hitting the record and is unsure of if there are any records she would like to pursue next.

“I had that number in my head since the start and thought that if I could hit it, I’d be stoked. Since I did, it has actually been quite difficult to get myself up again to keep going, I’ve had to really rely on the cause and the fundraiser to really get through the last 40,” she said.

“There’s a small part of me that thought I would finish this off with the world record for most consecutive ultras, [ultra marathons: any marathon beyond 42.2km]. I was at about 26 when I started this but there is an American lady who has done about 70 so I am stoked I didn’t try and do that!”

The whole trip aimed to raise funds for the Wilderness Society, with a focus on helping save the over 500 Australian animals on the endangered list.

Lucky escape in Warburton rollover

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By Parker McKenzie

An overall reduction in criminal incidents was recorded in the Yarra Ranges during 2022 up to September, according to new statistics released on 15 December.

The Yarra Ranges saw a 7.6 per cent decrease in criminal incidents compared to the first nine months of 2021.

The top offending suburbs remained the same but Lilydale (1094 to 944), Chirnside Park (470 to 356) and Kilsyth (352 to 331) saw a reduction in criminal incidents. Mooroolbark (711 to 725) and Healesville (273 to 305) recorded an increase.

32.7 per cent of criminal incidents saw charges laid, 26.5 per cent ended in no charges and 40.9 per cent remained unsolved.

The most common crime was breaching family violence orders, followed by criminal damage, other theft, stealing from a motor vehicle, and common assault.

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NEWS

Millions for sealing cut

By Tyler Wright The hopes of residents across the Yarra Ranges have been “dashed” by the federal government’s decision to cut funding in the October budget for long-awaited road projects for locals.

Yarra Ranges Council confirmed it received verbal confirmation that more than $100 million would be cut from the local Roads for the Community program, with $150 million announced in 2019 by the Liberal government to seal 187 kilometres of unsealed roads in the Yarra Ranges by 2029.

The council will receive $47.7 million of the original $150 million promised.

Cardinia Shire was expected to have 100 kilometres of unsealed roads in the municipality sealed through the Sealing the Hills program with $150 million from the Federal Government, but will only receive $41 million.

One road expected to be sealed in the 2022 to 2023 financial year was Gleghorn Road in Kallista.

A resident for 30 years, who chose not to be named, was “surprised” and “pleased” when the Federal Liberal government around four years ago committed funding to seal roads throughout the Yarra Ranges.

“Three years ago, [my husband] and I were talking... and we discussed this and with it, if we were to move, it would be because of the road, because it’s a dangerous road from ingesting the road base as well as the condition on the road,” the resident said.

Now, after years of road incidents and dust, their hopes have been put into doubt.

“It’s such a shame we’re being denied a normal life that other people take for granted.

“It’s not just ‘oh we get dusty cars,’ it is part of our way of life that has become difficult to live with, and when it’s going to be further extended over who knows how many years, it is

A resident on Gleghorn Road in Kallista said the decision to cut funding for the Roads for the Community program will impact people thought “all the Hills”.

Picture: TYLER WRIGHT going to impact on so many people’s lives in all the Hills.”

Yarra Ranges Council Mayor, Councillor Jim Child said the council is “very disappointed” the federal government will be dramatically cutting the funding from initiative.

“Sealing public roads, previously, came at significant cost to community members, due to the lack of government support,” Mr Child said.

“Roads for the Community heavily subsidised landowner contributions, and would have allowed us to complete almost 100 years’ worth of road sealing projects before 2030. It also provided the opportunity for power companies to consider undergrounding infrastructure while roads were under construction.”

Mr Child said most of the road projects planned for the community, “including all not currently tendered and contracted - will likely have to be abandoned”.

“Roads for the Community has already delivered significant local employment opportunities, and we believe the initiative would have a tremendous economic and social benefit for the entire municipality. It would have also improved community safety, access for emergency vehicles, and reduce road maintenance needs like dust suppressant, grading and pothole filling,” he said.

“We’ve already engaged with hundreds of community members, who have been overwhelmingly supportive of these projects, particularly the subsidy that the Federal funding provided to landowners - which had more

than halved the cost to residents for constructing roads.

“We urge the Federal Government to reconsider this decision, and we are extremely disappointed on behalf of our impacted communities.”

A Cardinia Shire Council spokesperson told the Star Mail the council is continuing to seek “urgent clarification” about the status of funding the Sealing the Hills program.

“Council is awaiting written confirmation regarding the status of the funding, and is working to clarify the potential impacts that this funding cut will have on projects that have been committed to and those already underway,” the spokesperson said.

“We will continue to keep project stakeholders and our community informed.”

A spokesperson for federal Transport Minister Catherine King said the Australian Government has provided $66.8 million to date to deliver a large number of projects to seal and upgrade roads across the Dandenong Ranges region.

“Following discussions between the Minister’s office and both councils’ mayors, the Australian Government will provide $47.7 million to the Yarra Ranges Council and $41 million to the Cardinia Shire Council to ensure these works can be delivered,” the spokesperson said.

“There are over 500 local government areas nationwide and this was a special carve out by the Coalition for just two councils in marginal electorates.

“The Australian Government was clear that all infrastructure projects would be reviewed line by line to ensure value for taxpayers money.”

CRAG21 is expected to present a petition to federal parliament in coming weeks to appeal for the Federal government to reinstate the original $150 million allocated to the Sealing the Hills program in the May 2023 budget.

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NEWS

New tanker for Seville

By Callum Ludwig

One of the LATs performs a drop on the southern side of Mount Beenak.

A LAT plane as it circles Mount Beenak.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG

Picture: JOHN CARTER

A Bomber 390 can hold over 15,000L of fire retardant or water.

Picture: CAM DODD

Training in the sky

By Callum Ludwig Mount Beenak played an important role in helping fine-tune our bushfire response this week.

On Wednesday 11 January, a fleet including two LATs (Large Air Tankers) completed a training exercise to help ensure pilots are prepared and assured in the event of a major bushfire.

Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMV) is managed by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) and regularly undertakes training exercises throughout summer, “The LATs are a vital part of Victoria’s firefighting fleet as they assist in direct attack for

fires and the creation of control lines,” said Tamara Beckett Director of Forest and Fire Operations at DEECA. “All aircraft need to be maintained to a high standard and regular training must be maintained to ensure crew readiness.”

Despite the seasonal outlook having shown a reduced bushfire risk across much of the state due to continued rainfall and cooler conditions, the training is important to help different fire-fighting agencies to respond to incidents and emergencies cohesively.

The first plane to fly out in the event of a fire is the Bird Dog, a twin-engine small plane that takes off as soon as the call comes through from the State Air Desk. It scouts out the fire ahead of the LATs and drops a smokescreen to

indicate where the air tankers should target.

Aircraft has already played a key role in Victoria over the past months during the flood response, and are here ready to respond to other emergencies, including fires.

The training on Wednesday 11 January was specifically for Large Air Tankers (LATs) which are a state resource, meaning that they can and are regularly deployed across the state.

Over the rest of the bushfire season, a total of 50 firebombing aircraft, air supervision and air intelligence gathering aircraft will be ready to combat fires across Victoria.

Mount Beenak was chosen for the training exercise due to its relative proximity to the Avalon Airport. It took the fleet of aircraft less than 20 minutes to arrive after taking off.

Time to clear the way for your local CFA

By Callum Ludwig With the threat of fire looming at any time throughout summer, local fire brigades are urging residents to help keep their properties as accessible as possible for brigades.

The time it takes or the restrictions created by obstructions for fire brigades can make a critical impact on the destruction a fire can cause.

Yarra Junction CFA Lieutenant Steve Harry said vegetation and overhanging branches are normally the main causes of obstruction.

“Something that is also pertinent considering the current building of smaller estates in Yarra Junction is the narrowness of the roads and people parking in the street. It can block a large vehicle like a fire truck from coming in if two people opposite both do the same thing, which causes a problem,” he said.

“In the end, it is respect and courtesy for your fellow neighbours in the event that something happens, that they would also themselves want someone there as quickly as possible and if it’s something holding it up, then it’s not a good experience and could delay the response that we have either for propmailcommunity.com.au

Make sure there is plenty of room for fire trucks this fire season.

Picture: ON FILE erty, life or assets.”

Particularly for larger properties, it is important that a truck has access in order to reach the fire, which may not be possible from the street.

Mr Harry said the simple way to check if your driveway is ready is to imagine if a three by three metre box could fit.

“Just have a look and wonder if that would actually fit. In larger properties, also think about the 30m turning capacity, if it’s a call that’s not something that we need to stay there for or may not be urgent, can we turn around quickly if we do get another response to get back out again,” he said.

“If you are in a small enclave or estate of houses, make sure you have got good communication, maybe even a social media group chat, to just say to be mindful if you do have a fire that a large truck or ambulance can get in.”

A fire truck is also about 7.1 metres or 23 feet long, which is another thing to consider in turns of preparing for a fire.

Mr Harry urged residents to be more vigilant of fire danger at this time of year.

“That includes understanding the new Fire Danger Rating System which you are able to access off the CFA website, there are four segments now so it’s nice and easy,” he said.

“It’s important for the residents themselves, understanding what that means, what each colour code means as it escalates and then put appropriate actions in place and in those highrisk days.”

Four world-class heavy tankers are set to arrive at Yarra Ranges fire brigades ready for the 2023-24 summer, courtesy of the State Government.

Seville, Olinda, The Basin and Gembrook CFA will all receive a new 4000-litre capacity tanker to add to their fleet.

Seville CFA Captain Stephen Crupi said it had been a long time coming and was great news to hear they will receive a new tanker.

“It’s a huge upgrade, ours will be replacing a 30-year-old truck, which has served the community well but is showing its age and lacks a lot of safety features like airbags,” he said.

“It will give us an enhanced firefighting capability with an increase in water capacity by 1000L, which is a lot when you are out there with no water, and the new trucks are electronic push buttons rather than mechanical and manual, which will be a lot easier and faster.”

The new tankers are dual-cab and are all replacing single-cab vehicles, meaning fewer firefighters will have to ride on the back out to incidents and emergencies.

Mr Crupi said the trucks will definitely make a difference to the Seville CFA’s firefighting abilities.

“They’ve got a lot of features on them and are very capable trucks which will save a lof of backbreaking labour and improve our ability to respond t incidents,” he said.

“It will be important for the brigade members who are very active in responding to fires and incidents in the area and supporting surrounding brigades, and it will complement the brigades existing fleet of a 3.4C tanker, salvage unit and Ultra-Light tanker.”

The Victorian-produced heavy tankers feature a multilayered crew protection system, ensuring the vehicle can withstand fire temperatures of more than 600 degrees Celsius, with other features including electronic monitors, electric rewind hose reels, modern cab chassis enhancements and higher levels of emissions controls.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said tankers are a vital part of CFA’s fleet, with more than 1900 across the state.

“These new tankers are state-of-theart firefighting vehicles,” he said.

“The Heavy Tankers feature a 15-tonne crew-cab chassis with a 4,000-litre water tank, while their 4x4 capability and automatic transmission will help crews access fires in difficult terrain.”

The new appliances were funded through the Victorian Government’s $126m CFA Capability Funding package, announced in June 2020.

“Victoria is one of the most fire-prone areas in the world and these replacement tankers will provide better safety outcomes for both communities and firefighters,” said Acting Minister for Emergency Services Anthony Carbines.

“These heavy tankers aren’t just a valuable addition to volunteer fleets – they’re made right here in Victoria, supporting local manufacturing and jobs.”

Seville CFA’s old heavy tanker is set to bid farewell with a brand new truck coming son.

Picture: ON FILE Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

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MAIL 5

NEWS

Back to school budgets

By Callum Ludwig New data has indicated the financial pressure on families could be heightened this month, with new school supplies likely to burn a hole in budgets before school returns.

Comparison site Finder has found that school supplies alone are expected to cost up to $2.6 billion, and when other costs are considered – like tuition fees, uniforms, technology, camps, excursions, sporting and musical equipment and transport costs – Australians families will have forked out $11.4 billion.

Wandin North Primary School parent council member and OC Partners accountant Ben Caines said everyone is still trying to work out the new normal, including prices.

“We’ve been through so much with lockdowns, and people have wanted to go out or spend a bit of time away from home on holidays and now the reality has started to set in, with the increase in prices for fuel, food and even school supplies,” he said.

“Especially when it comes to the jump from primary school to high school, there’s a lot of new costs such as new uniforms, but I think with a strong budget and careful planning, families will be okay.”

Families are expected to spend $2,325 for each primary school child and $4,212 for secondary students on average in 2023.

Mr Caines said there is also significant pressure on people due to rising interest rates and falling property prices.

“Over the last few years, people had a lot of growth in their properties and that growth has helped them pay for everyday expenses, but that has started to turn around, which will be challenging,” he said.

“When I was growing up, there were people working two or three jobs just to put kids through school or to survive, but now every-

Spending on school supplies can burn a big hole in the family budget. one’s sort of been accustomed to working one job and it will be the first time they are going through this. There will be support from schools and school councils though because it’s their responsibility to keep those costs low where they can and ensure kids have an education, which is the most important thing.”

Of the 1032 parents of children under 12

Picture: ON FILE

surveyed in Finder’s Parenting Report 2022, 17 per cent are contemplating moving their child from a private school to a public school to reduce their expenses.

School fees can average anywhere between $204 for a public primary school to $10,662 for an independent secondary school, totalling $3.4 billion alone.

Finder provides the following tips to save on school spending: Write a list and set a budget, shop online to avoid making impulse buys using the list drafted earlier, re-use what you can with items like lunchboxes, pencil cases and school bags likely to still be in good condition and label everything to help find any items that get lost in the hustle and bustle of the year.

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OUTLANDER We’re removing level crossings on the Belgrave and Lilydale lines As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re removing 110 dangerous and congested level crossings, with 67 already gone.

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions Belgrave and Lilydale lines

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On sections of the lines

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NEWS

Changes to PCR testing

By Callum Ludwig Despite a national average of 8,950 daily cases in Australia over the first three days of 2023, the threat of Covid-19 seems to be less of a worry in 2023.

From the start of the year, the Federal Government decided to transition to the general population relying on RAT tests, with PCR testing available if necessary through GP-led Respiratory Clinics or where their GP or nurse practitioner requests a test, free of charge.

Free PCR tests without medical referrals will still be available from a number of staterun testing clinics, but the change in approach is aiming to prioritise high-risk people who may benefit from antiviral treatment if they tested positive.

“The National Plan provides clear guidance to the community and health care providers on how the Australian Government will play its part in managing Covid-19 into the future,” said Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler.

“We will continue to protect those most at risk, while ensuring we have the capacity to respond to future waves and variants.”

The changes are part of the National Covid-19 Health Management Plan for 2023 that was agreed upon by the National Cabinet on 30 September 2022.

EACH currently operates the only GP respiratory clinic in the Yarra Ranges in Lilydale and CEO Natalie Sullivan said they do not expect any significant impacts from the decision as rapid antigen tests are widely available in the community.

“Anyone experiencing Covid-19 symptoms should take a rapid antigen test and isolate for at least 5 days and until they don’t have symptoms. They can also see their GP if they are unwell,” she said.

“A GP can assess them and decide if they need a PCR test to check for Covid and other

EACH staff Mandi, Alice and Ann-Maree at the GP Respiratory Clinic in Lilydale. respiratory illnesses. Free RATs are available, and locations where they can be collected can be found at www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au.”

The National Covid-19 Health Management Plan is aiming to: provide vaccine certainty, empower the community to make informed choices to protect themselves and their loved ones; take pressure off hospitals; to provide additional help for aged care, First Nations, disability and multicultural communities; support effective Covid-19 testing; and strengthen the National Medical Stockpile safety net and pandemic preparedness capability.

Funding was also extended for GP respiratory clinics likee those run by EACH and Ms

Picture: ON FILE

Sullivan said they will remain an essential service as we experience further waves of Covid-19 through the coming months and into winter.

“The service helps to relieve pressure on our emergency departments and other primary health settings. GP Respiratory Clinics continue to provide free face-to-face assessment and support for people who are unwell with respiratory illnesses and cannot book in to see their regular GP,” she said.

“Anyone at high risk of severe illness and has Covid or Flu-like symptoms should speak to a GP about a PCR test even if they tested negative on a RAT. This ensures they can get any help they need, including Covid antiviral

medicine, as quickly as possible.”

As well as GP Respiratory Clinics, hospitals and state and territory testing clinics will remain the only places low-risk individuals can access PCR testing without a referral.

Ms Sullivan said Covid-19 remains a global health risk, and cases are still present throughout the community.

“If it’s been more than 3 months since your last vaccination or since you had Covid, get a booster dose. People who receive a vaccination have a much lower chance of getting severely unwell,” she said.

“We also highly encourage wearing a mask indoors and practising physical distancing, and good hand hygiene as much as possible.”

Alert for home gardeners The Queensland fruit fly (QFF) has the potential to devastate Victoria’s valuable horticultural industry, so home gardeners are urged to act now to protect their fruit and vegetables.

The wet spring created the perfect breeding conditions for the pest, which is most active now through to May. Agriculture Victoria Statewide Fruit Fly Coordinator Cathy Mansfield said QFF are attracted to ripening fruit and vegetables.

“Maintaining good biosecurity practices starts in your home garden – and it’s vital to limit fruit fly population growth and halt its spread to neighbours, nearby orchards or farms,” Ms Mansfield said.

“The best way to protect your fruit and vegetables is to use insect-proof netting during the growing season.”

Continuously flowering vegetable and berry crops should be covered when developing fruit are very small.

If you’re unable to net your trees, monitor for fruit fly and use other preventative methods such as baiting, and insecticides, traps and remove any unwanted ripe or dropped fruit.

QFF attacks a wide range of fruit and vegetables including tomatoes, apricots, figs, peaches, nectarines, cherries, and berries.

Home gardeners can keep watch for fruit fly sting marks on developing fruit and vegetables – they’re only tiny and easily missed but affected produce can rot from the inside.

Fruit fly maggots are often found in the centre of produce, ranging in size from, 5-10mm long and creamy-white in colour.

If you do find active fruit fly, it’s important to let neighbouring properties know and encourage people to check their own produce for damage.

“Leave your homegrown produce behind if you’re going away this summer to ensure you’re not accidentally bringing QFF into other regions,” Ms Mansfield said.

“Some states have will not allow fruit or vegetables to be taken across state borders so check before you travel.”

For more information including lists of common host plants, how to control fruit fly in your garden and netting tips visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/qff

We're

Hiring!

We are looking for a positive, vibrant and professional person to be our Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) Nominated Supervisor and Lead Educator at Warburton Primary School.

The OSHC Supervisor/Educator will

lead and oversee the day-to-day operation, service development, implementation, and evaluation of the service. work directly with children within the OSHC program and focus on the planning, monitoring and management of the service - in consultation with the Principal, Business Manager and School Council. warburton.ps@education.vic.gov.au ensure that the quality of education and care offered is in keeping with the values, principles, policies and organisation values of the school.

Timeline

Expressions of Interest due: 23/01/23 Interviews: 25/01/23

Contact Warburton PS for more information Protect your fruits from the QFF this summer for the sake of your produce and that of our agriculture and horticulture industry.

Picture: ON FILE

warburton.ps@education.vic.gov.au 12585924-SN03-23

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Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

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MAIL 7

NEWS

Life membership honour

By Renee Wood A special honour has been bestowed on a Yarra Glen RSL member who’s dedicated years to supporting the local sub-branch.

Secretary and treasurer Ed Bartosh has been presented his Victorian RSL life membership by Robert Webster OAM, Victorian Branch RSL President, on Sunday 15 January.

Only four Victorian awards are given each year and Mr Bartosh said it’s a great honour one he didn’t expect.

“It’s an amazing honour and really couldn’t do it without the help of others…. can’t do it alone… you stand on the shoulders of others,” he said.

“I’ve been to my mind just doing a job that needed to be done.”

Mr Bartosh joined the Yarra Glen sub branch in 2005 after moving to Australia from America.

In 2007 he became the secretary and a few years later he also volunteered to be treasurer - both roles he stayed in to this day.

Mr Bartosh said joining the local branch felt ‘only natural’ after serving 22 years in the American army.

“I had joined the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars in America and so when we moved here, it was natural for me to join up with the returning services.”

When first joining there was number of World War II veterans within the sub-branch and Mr Bartosh said it was his duty to support them.

“It was like being part of a social club with some of my father’s friends - my father was a World War II veteran with the American army..

“So just helping out with that, again, helping guys like my father, and now I’m one of those guys, so it’s a bit different.”

Mr Bartosh said a highlight during his time

Yarra Glen RSL president Stephen Shortis, life membership recipient Ed Bartosh and Victorian RSL president Robert Webster OAM. has been commemorating ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day. “I decided I needed to become an Australian citizen… and I had to learn how to be an Australian, so ANZAC Day is a big part of that.

“I had marched in the city as a tourist, I happened to be here on that day, and it was an honour to be a part of that.

“Ted Bowling, the previous secretary, had set up things pretty well so I just slotted in and got

to make sure it continued in Yarra Glen, and it’s [ANZAC Day] the biggest day on our calendar.”

Mr Bartosh has personally been involved in the commemorations and also assisted in the moving of the cenotaph.

As a life member, Mr Bartosh will continue to support the RSL and said it’s important to continue to assist our veterans.

“These people that I’ve served the RSL with, have all served the country of Australia, some of

Picture: SUPPLIED

them put their lives on the line, others have put their bodies in service and the potential to have their life on the line at any time and to work with them to continue to honour them.

“Something we’ve done with Yarra Glen is we’ve got the students from the primary schools to come in and talk at ANZAC Day to try and instil that meaning of something special, of service to country, of service to your neighbourhood, so it doesn’t get lost.”

Don’t travel to bushland on Extreme Fire Danger Rating days.

If you plan to travel through Victoria during fire season, it’s important to check the Fire Danger Rating every day.

If the rating is Extreme or Catastrophic, avoid travelling to high risk bush or grassfire areas. It’s safer to travel to cities or towns for the day.

Plan. Act. Survive. Go to emergency.vic.gov.au

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12580878-MS03-23

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Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

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NEWS

Rates hold buyers back

By Mikayla van Loon With house prices seeing a record decline around the country, local real estate agents are seeing similar trends occur on their doorstep as interest rates push prices down.

The value of house prices has seen its largest decline on record in just nine months since peaking in May last year according to data released by CoreLogic on Monday 9 January.

The Australia-wide figure indicated an -8.4 per cent drop between 7 May 2022 and 7 January 2023, with Victoria showing the third highest downturn of -8.6 per cent.

This broke the previous record when home values fell -8.38 per cent between October 2017 and June 2019 countrywide.

Methven Professionals managing director Geoff Earney said within their group, figures show a five to seven per cent drop in house prices and a 10 to 12 per cent drop in unit prices with the most active prices leaning into the $600,000 to $800,000 range.

While price drops are bringing buyers in, the interest rates are curbing sales, with Mr Earney saying Professionals Real Estate sales have decreased by at least a third compared to the same time last year.

That’s despite seeing between 250 and 390 prospective buyers on average at inspections each week from August to early December in 2022.

“The buyers are out there. They’re just having their wings clipped by the amount of money they can afford to borrow from the bank,” Mr Earney said.

“Interest rates are just below five per cent at the moment and the banks are doing their homework on eight, maybe depending on which bank it is, eight and a half per cent to make sure that future interest rate rises are not going to put the buyers in trouble.”

Given the downward trend of house prices is being attributed to the 300 basis point increase of the cash rate made by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) over eight months, Mr Earney said it will depend on them whether prices fall further or plateau.

“It’ll take a little bit of time for this to settle.

It depends on what the Reserve Bank does with the interest rates when they come back in February,” he said.

“The data that’s going to come out will be able to show whether the overall cost of living in the market is slowing and whether they’re trying to get this inflation under control…inflation is being fuelled by things which are beyond all of our control and house prices seem to be one of those ones that are caught up in it.”

House prices across the country have declined by record amounts as interests rates rise.

Although not sure whether this will be the new normal for house prices, Mr Earney said he does expect interest rates between five and seven per cent to be the new standard more so than the really low rate of three per cent.

“Interest rates were at the lowest they’ve been for years and years and years so people were expecting them to go up but I don’t think we’ve seen such a low base to come up from and then to have such a quick and probably very high amount of interest rate increases over a short period of time.

“If [the RBA] leave interest rates alone in February, it might give people a little bit of stability, to think ‘well, we must be getting near the end of the cycle of the interest rate rises’. If they increase again, I think that will just make people be ultra careful.”

Mr Earney said many people are re-evaluating what is important given the cost of living standards in place at the moment.

“The reality of the interest rates increasing,

the cost of living increasing, the cost of gas and electricity increasing, is really starting to take some toll on people.

“They’re now starting to reassess what is a necessity in their life, rather than what would be nice to be able to have and getting back to the basics.”

Alongside interest rate rises, Mr Earney said overall there is rather a limited stock of houses and units being put on the market in the local area and first home buyers are being hit the hardest yet again.

“It still comes down to supply and demand and there is not a lot of supply. People will only be selling if they have a need to sell. In other words, they’re wanting to upgrade or downgrade,” he said.

“First time buyers are probably the ones struggling out there just with the changes of interest rates and what the banks are now prepared to lend them.”

While 12 months ago affordability of house

Picture: ON FILE prices was pushing people to the brink, Mr Earney said it is still the same just flipped.

“It was really only affordability that was stopping some people…beforehand, the prices were increasing more than what they could afford to pay and now it’s exactly the same. Instead of the prices increasing, interest rates are increasing, which is holding them back.”

Over his 50 years in real estate, Mr Earney said this is most likely the tenth or eleventh “boom and a bust or change in the market” he has experienced.

“What goes up, comes down but it will come back again. In the last 100 years, the average price of real estate has increased by eight per cent per annum and that’s gone for good times and bad times.

“It’s a general rule of thumb that the general prices of real estate have increased by 10 per cent every 10 years.”

The RBA returns on Tuesday 7 February.

Rental demand ongoing as properties are scooped up

By Tyler Wright Real estate professionals are seeing an increase in demand for rental properties throughout the Yarra Ranges with a vast amount of rentals now being snapped up off market.

Based in Belgrave, Ranges First National Real Estate has seen an increase in demand for rentals throughout the region, with around 30 rentals leased without advertising since March 2022.

“Tenants have been contacting us a lot more to try and get in before they think anyone else is,” Ranges First National Director Mick Dolphin said.

“Every time something came up, the rent was astronomical because we had eight people applying for it...so those rents went up during Covid and they’ve stayed up as we’ve gone back to normal,” Mr Dolphin said.

According to Business Development Manager Amy Carson, demand has not been able to meet supply.

“Too many people looking for houses and [there are] not enough houses, rental wise,” Ms Carson said.

“We’re still getting people coming out from the city, they’re looking for the lifestyle.

“We’re also finding existing renters in the area as well; wanting to stay in the area.” mailcommunity.com.au

Real estate agents in the Dandenong Ranges are seeing an increased demand for rental properties despite a slight increase in vacancy rates in the December quarter.

Picture: SUPPLIED According to CoreLogic’s most recent report on rentals in the country, published on Tuesday 10 January, the pace of rental value growth has slowed for the second consecutive month, sitting at 2.0 per cent in the December quarter compared to 2.3 per cent in the September quarter.

This is one per cent lower than the peak quarterly growth rate of 3.0 per cent in the three months to May. “The decline in quarterly rental growth rates observed in the December quarter was led by the capital cities where rents continued to increase but at a slightly slower rate than they have done in September and June quarters,” CoreLogic Head of Research and report author Eliza Owen said.

But despite the drop in rent value growth and a slight jump in rental vacancy rates (1.05 per cent in November to 1.17 per cent) in December, Ms Owen said “it’s not great news for tenants just yet”.

“Rents are still rising in most capital cities and regional areas with vacancy rates low,” Ms Owen said.

Mr Dolphin said the increased cost of rental properties is the “new normal”.

“20 per cent of our rent roll’s been sold, so there’s actually less houses available to rent because a lot of landlords cash in or just can’t be bothered doing other compliance checks and keeping things up to standard, because it can be a very expensive thing to do on some houses,” he said.

The median price for a rental property in Healesville is $480 per week according to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria and the

hunt for rentals isn’t expected to slow down in 2023.

“We don’t expect it to slow down, it’s probably gotten busier over the last fortnight... we’re picking up and taking a lot more owners coming into the market,” Ms Carson said.

According to the CoreLogic report, Melbourne is the cheapest capital city to rent in Australia with a median value of $507 per week, followed by Adelaide, Hobart, Perth and Brisbane at $518 per week, $552 per week, $553 per week and $588 per week respectively.

ABS population data has showed a weakening internal migration trend across Canberra and a strong return in net overseas migration for Sydney and Melbourne, the report said.

“Unlike Canberra, high levels of net overseas migration to NSW and Victoria has vastly offset negative net internal migration flows in the year to June 2022,” Ms Owen said.

“Prior to the pandemic, Sydney and Melbourne alone accounted for around two thirds of net overseas arrivals, with high density city centres being among the most popular destinations. This has likely contributed to unprecedented annual growth in unit rents over 2022, which was 15.5 per cent across Sydney and 14.2 per cent in Melbourne.”

Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

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MAIL 9

NEWS

Food and fitness

By Callum Ludwig The ADRA Redwood Community Centre stands big and proud towards the tail-end of Warburton, providing support and care for the local community.

In 2023, nothing will change, with plenty of fresh fruit and veg and a new fitness program already available at the centre for those who need it.

Administrative Assistant Keren Wakefield said spaces like the centre will continue to be extremely necessary throughout 2023.

“We have had such an increasing need for food parcels, particularly because people are struggling financially at the moment and just having a space available that people can pop in and chat to someone or be referred on to other services is crucial,” she said.

“There’s just such a high need for everything, food, mental health support, kids and teens are struggling, drugs and alcohol, the lot of it. We’re open, the phone line is open and we are here.”

A new free Functional Fitness and Fun program is also starting up this year, offering an all-ages and abilities group exercise class run by a qualified personal trainer on Mondays and Thursdays.

Ms Wakefield said anyone is always welcome to pop into the Redwood centre during opening hours.

“Our lounge room is always open, anyone can pop in and hang out, have a cup of tea and a snack. They can watch the telly and we’ve got computers that they can use so they can log

FICE Coordinator Renee Cooke outside of FICE’s Yarra Junction store.

Picture: ON FILE

Food stocks are strong at ADRA in 2023. into the internet, check emails and things like that and the staff are always happy to have a chat,” she said.

“We’re always applying for different grants, to see where we can get funding to start up new programs or to help people however we can.”

The Chewsday Bite program is up and running again, with 2023 seeing strong supplies of fresh food available so far. Pop into the Redwood centre on a Monday to request a food parcel and they can be collected on Tuesday morning, and everyone is welcome to stay and enjoy a nice morning tea.

Upcycling workshops

By Callum Ludwig The Christmas Market was a great send off at ADRA. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Carols raise nearly $5000 for Ukraine

By Callum Ludwig Warburton is set to be a hub of activity in 2023, and the Warburton Advancement League have high hopes.

Their work this year has gotten off to a flying start, set to make a generous donation of about $4800 raised at the Warburton Carols

by Candelight event last year to support victims of the conflict in Ukraine.

Warburton Advancement League President Jeff Gill said it was important to think about the people around the other side of the world doing it tough.

“We had a lovely evening at the carols, with the lovely surroundings of Warburton and they are without power or water, or away from their homes,” he said.

“At very short notice. we approached six prominent business people in the town and asked that if we have a gold coin donation going around, at the end of the night of the carols, would they match it dollar for dollar and they did, which was really generous.”

Funds were raised through the gold coin donation as well as the selling of glow sticks.

The event also marked the first use of the grassed area alongside the Warburton Water World for a community event, which the

Carolers turned out in droves.

Warburton Advancement League had hoped for the space in the development, and was a great success with nearly 2000 people attending.

Mr Gill said it was great to see the town booming at the moment.

“There was plenty of work that went into the carols, and people turned out which was great tp see. All the cafes have got staff on, everybody’s employing people, and everyone’s enjoying the river and the splash park in the hot weather,” he said.

Picture: JAMES MCEWAN “We wanted the whole grassed area to be a lovely area for the whole town to use, and we made sure we had enough power when we put it in because when you run something in Warby there’s always a chance a circuit will blow but it worked great and will be great to use again.”

With projects such as the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination, an application to upgrade the Warburton IGA and consultation on the Warburton Urban Design Framework in the works, 2023 is shaping up to be a big year for Warburton.

Back to Middle Ages at Camelot Castle

By Callum Ludwig The Yarra Ranges’ very own Camelot castle is set to lower the drawbridge and open the gates for a Medieval Village Fair on Sunday 5 February, with support from the Yellingbo CFA, Woori Community House, Woori Yallock Bendigo Bank and the WHYLD community group.

For only a gold coin donation, the stunning castle will host a number of ‘merchants’, kids entertainment and the performances of liveaction role-playing groups (LARPs).

Manager of the Woori Community House and event organiser Sonja Mazar said its the first time the event has run in a few years, after first being held in 2012.

“We have reenactment groups who come from near and far, even as far as Ballarat and Gippsland, who do role plays and invite people to come and watch as well as participate in some of their events,” she said.

10 MAIL

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Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

Knights present the ‘Art of Friendly Violence’ at a previous Medieval Village Fair at Camelot Castle.

Picture: ON FILE “We have a lot of stalls set up with activities from the time period like wool yarning, and a number of them will teach people how to do some of the work they do.”

The Knights of Camelot will roving around

the grounds, protecting the castle and the attendees from Sven and other threats that may appear.

Ms Mazar said it’s not often visitors are allowed to visit the grounds of Camelot Castle, and this event is a great opportunity.

“You can come out and see our very own medieval castle in our backyard while having the opportunity to interact and learn about the period of time it is based on,” she said.

“We’re also going to have some maps for the kids to come along, grab a map, go to certain locations at the fair, collect stickers, and then go into a draw to win a soft toy dragon.”

Themed costumes are very much welcome for anyone who would like to really immerse themselves in the experience.

The fair will go from 10am to 4pm at Camelot Castle, located at 2605 HealesvilleKoo Wee Rup Road in Yellingbo.

Old clothes are set to find a new lease on life, with Upcycling workshops at First Impressions Clothing Exchange (FICE) in Yarra Junction to be held throughout the year.

The program is being supported through a grant from Sustainability Victoria’s Circular Economy Communities Fund.

FICE Coordinator Renee Cooke said it’s really important for the local community to be aware of what potentially could go into landfill while connecting as a community to learn a new skill.

“We can divert these products away from landfill and actually make something purposeful from them. We’ve got quite an eclectic lineup of different themed workshops going forward throughout the year,” she said.

“We’re just really proud to be the recipients of this workshop, we just hope this project will encourage participants to be more mindful of the unsustainable volumes of material going into landfill overall and they may even initiate their own projects at a family or community level to help reduce what goes into landfill or take better choices into the purchases and packaging.”

The first five-week workshop, to be held every Thursday 2 February from 10am to 12.30pm until Thursday 2 March 2023 has already been sold out.

Ms Cooke said it is all about creating products that enhance sustainability in daily life.

“It’s an opportunity for community connection to learn, grow and explore by learning from the natural environment while learning new skills in a supportive environment,” she said.

“We’ve figured that about 40 per cent or more than a tonne of clothing at FICE ends up in landfill because it’s just not fit for selling to the public or even sometimes giving to other charities or other op shops. This was a perfect opportunity to do something meaningful with these clothing items that we otherwise couldn’t do anything further with.”

All tools and materials are provided, with the first set of attendees set to learn how to print onto fabrics, and create cushion covers, prayer flags, pouches and more.

The next workshop is from Thursday 9 March until Thursday 6 April and is focused on creating soft toys and winter woollies. Tickets are $25 for access to all five workshop sessions.

Anyone interested in signing up for the next available workshop can do so here: www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/992104. mailcommunity.com.au

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Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

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MAIL 11

OPINION

Community spirit Wonderful community spirit has been shown again in the Yarra Ranges with neighbours and community members helping each other with flood prevention and clean up after last year’s floods.

The floods that swept through the Yarra Ranges in October and November had a huge impact on parts of our community, one that has been felt for months afterwards. Homes, businesses, roads and paddocks were impacted, with clean ups and road repairs continuing into December and the New Year.

Despite the hardships the flood waters caused, our community spirit has been strong during this time. Similar to the winter storms in 2022, community members were helping each other, their neighbours and local businesses any way they could. This included sandbagging, moving livestock, repairing fences, pumping water and providing pumps to those who needed them. The community’s response was a real demonstration of the strong community bond across the Yarra Ranges when times get tough.

The floods have also shown us that our roads and infrastructure are not well enough

The state of

affairs Cindy McLeish MP Member for Eildon equipped to handle such extreme weather conditions.

The Melba Highway between Yarra Glen and Yering was closed on and off for a prolonged period of time. The closure impacted businesses including retail, hospitality and accommodation in Yarra Glen and the surrounding area. The absence of regular tourism to the town and drivers passing through was strongly felt, especially in the lead up to Christmas and the summer holidays. The Melba Highway closure also caused considerable delays for driver’s travel time as they had to detour through Healesville. Many tourists opted not to make the detour journey. The detour was a

M3GAN a great thrill

major imposition for many drivers, locals and commuters, adding an extra half an hour minimum travel time to work and school.

The Melba Highway wasn’t the only major road to be affected by the flood water. The Warburton Highway is still closed to one lane and the Old Warburton Highway was closed completely for a time. The one lane closure, necessary for safety, has had a major impact on Warburton residents and businesses, deterring tourists much like in Yarra Glen and extending commute times for locals. We can expect major repairs to start on the Warburton Highway once the peak holiday season is finished.

The floods and road closures have caused many community members to question the local road system and whether building alternative road and bridge options is a possibility to prevent prolonged closures recurring.

I encourage this discussion and for community members to continue to contact my office with ideas on how we can make our region the best place to live. I also encourage everyone to continue the positive community spirit this new year and to look out for one another.

M3GAN Starring Allison Williams, Violet McGraw and Amie Donald Rated M 4/5 M3GAN is a tense, funny and surprisingly nuanced sci-fi horror film.

After losing her parents in a car accident, a young girl named Cady (Violet McGraw) bonds with M3gan, an AI doll created by her roboticist aunt Gemma (Allison Williams).

M3GAN has solid, moving performances and a steady, rising sense of unease, as the title robot grows more defiant and unpredictable. The plot draws tension from multiple fronts: M3gan taking her directive of protecting Cady to violent extremes; Cady growing too attached to M3gan and not adequately dealing with the loss of her parents; business interests pushing an untested (and unsafe) M3gan to market.

M3GAN cleverly engages with themes of grief, responsibility and children maturing beyond their guardians’ control, but never takes itself too seriously, with witty dialogue and moments of campy carnage. The schlocky action sequences may put off some viewers, but these add to the film’s darkly humorous tone. The climax may be a little too silly, but it’s still viscerally and emotionally satisfying.

M3GAN is reminiscent of the 2019 Child’s Play reboot, as both films feature machine learning running amok through a seemingly wholesome children’s toy. M3gan herself nicely sidesteps the uncanny valley: with her synthetic look and eerie stillness, she is clearly non-human, but her behaviour causes us to warm to and then fear her.

M3GAN is a smart, amusing and extremely well-paced sci-fi horror film, and has a limited Victorian cinema release.

-Seth Lukas Hynes

Action-packed journey of self-discovery A review of We Who Hunt the Hollow by Kate Murray This is the fifth in a series of six reviews featuring the 2022 Readings Young Adult Book Prize.

If you like Disney’s animated musical fantasy Encanto (“We don’t talk about Bruno, no, no, no...”), then you will surely enjoy We Who Hunt the Hollow, debut YA novel by Melbourne-based New Zealand author Kate Murray. Like the Madrigals, Priscilla Daalman’s family members are gifted with special powers. As the 17-year-old protagonist explains, hers is a dystopian world suffering from eternal storms caused by climate change. Worse, evil monsters have arrived as invaders from another universe.

The entire Daalman Family are Hollow Warriors, legendary monster hunters as humanity’s last line of defence. Yet, like Mirabel, Priscilla sees herself as being inept and incompetent, her ability to sense the monsters hardly a match to those who can defeat and destroy them.

In a desperate attempt to live up to her family’s legacy. Priscilla performs a ritual to increase her power, with devastating results.

Not only can she now summon the monsters, but she tries to hide this dangerous power

CARTOON

PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN and ends up putting her family in danger.

As can be expected, We Who Hunt the Hollow is a captivating story packed with thrilling actions, terrifying beasts, fierce warriors and highly intelligent animal familiars, and fascinating superpowers and cutting-edge gadgets. There is as much science fiction here as fantasy, with flying vehicles and magiclike teleporting and telekinetic powers side by side. Particularly awesome and authentic are depictions of Priscilla’s family life, which is chaotic yet comfortable, full of love, fun, and mutual understanding and support. In the author’s words: “I knew I wanted the story to be a feminist one, with a lot of female characters. I pulled inspiration from the Amazons of Themyscira and Wonder Woman, that concept of fierce warrior women, and I also

pulled inspiration from [Alice Huffman’s 1995 novel] Practical Magic for that cosy witchy family vibe.”

But, at least to this reviewer, there is also a fair bit of the X-Men and even American YA author Neal Shusterman’s Arc of a Scythe series in this book. Specifically, as Lord Acton famously said in 1887: “Power tends to corrupt, and absolutely power corrupts absolutely.

Great men are almost always bad men.”

Like Magneto and Scythe Goddard – and, evidently, like Lord Voldemort and Gellert Grindelwald before him – the Renegades in We Who Hunt the Hollow are convinced that those with superpowers should rule the world instead of serving it, and they will do everything to achieve this arrogant ambition.

The introduction of this “rebel” element makes the world of Hollow Warriors realistic and complex, adding a philosophical touch to an otherwise entertaining story. This subplot also has considerable impact on Priscilla’s journey of self-discovery, an example of how confidence and self-esteem needs to come from within. With that said, Priscilla is a highly relatable character who is honest and full of compassion. It is her devotion to family, not her superpower, that makes her a superhero in their eyes.

Starting the theatre season 1812 Theatre Rose St, Ferntree Gully Confusions Confusions consists of a series of five interconnected one act plays; Mother Figure, Drinking Companion, Between Mouthfuls, Gosforth’s Fete and A Talk in the Park.

First staged in 1976, the scenes are all loosely linked by characters or locations, but more subtly through the common underlying themes of obsession, isolation and human desire for companionship.

Ayckbourn shows his comedic genius with five stories that runs the gambit of comic technique from situation comedy to outright farce.

Season: February 9 – March 4. www.1812theatre.com.au ph. 9758 3964 Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre 38-41 Castella St, Lilydale Family Values A celebrated federal judge, his son, a born-again Christian. His daughter, a Border Force officer. Her partner, the captain of a Border force ship. His other daughter, a left-wing activist. His wife who has worked all her life to keep the family together. Saba, an asylum seeker on the run from Nauru.

On the eve of his birthday, is it too much to expect his wife and three children to celebrate with him?

Season: February 9 – 25. Bookings: www.lily-

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Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

Kemp’s curtain call daletheatre.com or 9735 1777.

The Gem Community Theatre 9 Kilvington Dve, Emerald Play Reading – Heir and Grace by Will Mithen An exciting new, funny, proactive, au courant, locally written script makes its debut at Gemco Theatre. Gemco seeks actors, 3-4 women and 3-4 men to take part in this project.

The Plot: The most progressive family that never existed finds their usually harmonious relationships are thrown into discord when their sister proposes one of her four brothers could donate sperm so her partner can conceive a genetically related child – but who’s DNA would confer the best qualities?

Season: Saturday 11 February 8pm – 10.30pm.

For more info and to join the team to get this project off the ground, call Mandy McGarrigle on 0432 787 519.

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

An EP debut milestone

By Callum Ludwig Young Warburton artist Jayda Jean is set to take a big step into her musical career with the launch of her debut EP set for the start of February.

Five original songs feature on ‘Through Your Eyes’ which Jayda will perform at Yarra Valley ECOSS for supporters on Friday 3 February at around 7.30-8pm, before holding further launches in Melbourne and Adelaide and at a few festivals.

Jayda said the launch is really exciting and that she is super proud of what she has achieved.

“With five songs in the end, it’s a bit surreal. There’s always a bit of self-doubt, that comes along with being an artist, but I feel proud of what I’ve achieved, I wouldn’t have been able to do it without all the support I had,” she said.

“I’m excited to play with a band that will be coming along on the journey with me, and it will be pretty special to have all of my supporters there. I’ve never had a gig that’s all about me, its always been as a support act or as part of a festival.”

Warburton artist Jayda Jean is set to release her debut EP ‘Through Your Eyes’.

Picture: ON FILE Supporters of Jayda helped make her dream a reality through a crowdfunding campaign that ended in early June last year, which raised $4770 to fund the EP.

Jayda said she had written all the songs before the crowdfunding campaign, which gave her the opportunity to produce them in studios.

“I had a few friends who were producers, so they helped me find which direction the EP was going in terms of producing, and then take it into the studio and go a bit further or see if I wanted to add stuff. Sometimes I did, sometimes I didn’t,” she said.

“I went travelling for two months, which put a bit of a hold on the music but came back and smashed out two songs before sending them off to get mixed and mastered now as well.”

Lovely Place will be the support act at the launch, with a band consisting of school friends of Jayda’s to play alongside her at her launches in Adelaide and Melbourne. Positions are open for a bass guitarist to join the band and for a support act to accompany in Adelaide.

Jayda said her songwriting process is very personal and often has to do with how she is feeling and the different situations in her life at the time.

“I will sit down and type something that

COMMUNITY DIARY

LETTERS

Healesville local shares her COP27 experience Healesville resident Elly Hanrahan had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend COP27 in Egypt in 2022, and she is set to share what she learnt from the experience with the community.

At 3pm on Sunday 29 January at the Darron Honey Centre, Ms Hanrahan will discuss policy, Australia’s performance, and where we should go from here from her experience as a part of Australia’s contingent of the Global Voices, sharing the inside view: the good and the bad.

Ms Hanrahan spent the past 5 years working for DELWP (now the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action/DEECA from 2023) as a forest firefighter and Project Officer.

She has a Bachelor’s Degree in environmental science with honours in global challenges and has worked and volunteered for environmental organisations since she was a teen.

In 2022, she supervised a research partnership between DELWP and Monash University investigating the implementation of rehydration methodologies on public land; a concept she was introduced to after looking for practical on-ground measures that could prevent further instances of the black summer fires.

She incorporated the findings from this research into a policy proposal submitted to the Global Voices fellowship program which was

just flows out to me and then I feel better afterwards, or something won’t make sense to me at the time and then I look back later at what I wrote and realise how I was feeling. A lot of people say artists have a certain sound or genre, but I want to have songs that will suit everyone, the production of each song is very different but if I had to pick a genre I’d say indie, indie-soul or indie-rock even, ” she said.

“The EP’s name and the song ‘Through Your Eyes’ came from one of my best friends who was struggling and I could see she was not really being herself, held down by other people and their standards, and I was writing songs at her house and her mum walked in and then we were all singing along when she said the line ‘Through Your Eyes’ and it just stuck in my head for a while.”

Tickets for the EP launch are available for $10, with kids under 15 allowed to attend for free.

Jayda can also be found on Spotify under ‘Jayda Jean.’ Prior to the EP’s launch, she has three songs: ‘Lost’, ‘Rose Coloured Sky’ and ‘Freezing Toes’, with the new songs to be released soon.

COMMUNITY DIARY WHAT’S ON AROUND THE VALLEY ultimately successful and saw her recent participation in the COP27 in Egypt.

There will be ample time for discussion, and for questions from the audience.

Grant opened for Casey Athletes Local Sporting Champions Program is now accepting applications for Round Four.

The program provides financial assistance between $500-$750 to help with the cost of attending state, national or international championships.

Grants are available to sporting champions, coaches or officials between 12 and 18 years of age.

Breakdown of grant: Base Grant: $500

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

· Applicants travelling 800km – 1999km to their nominated championships: +$100 · Applicants travelling internationally or greater than 2000km to their nominated championships: +$200 Applicants residing in a rural electorate: + $50 Member for Casey, Aaron Violi encouraged all those eligible to apply.

“Grassroots sporting clubs drive community connectedness across Casey, and these grants have a proud history of supporting our local sporting champions,” he said.

More information on eligibility criteria and the application process can be found at: www. sportaus.gov.au/grants_and_funding/local_ sporting_champions

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Support the Yellingbo CFA when they come knocking After a couple of years of going without due to Covid precautions, Yellingbo residents can expect a visit from their CFA as part of their doorknock appeal.

Yellingbo CFA brigade members will be doing the rounds from 10am onwards, with all donations to go towards a new fire truck and new updated firefighting equipment.

The crew will also hand out brochures on fire safety and it would be a great time to air any concerns or ask any questions you might have.

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

Road hazard Having seen bad traffic accidents on the Warburton Highway/Douthie Road turn-off in Seville East, I have gotten into the habit of staying distant on Douthie Road away from the highway turn off making sure that I see oncoming traffic from Woori Yallock. Just near the turn off a steep crest in the highway puts the near-flying vehicle right on top of the turnoff in about two seconds.

The divided highway ends just past the Douthie Road turn-off and the approaching vehicles from Woori know a single lane is coming up, hence the speed.

The scenario: The oncoming ‘flying machine’ (well over 80km/h) has got full glare blinding sunlight on its back - it is a near-black vehicle - with no lights (a large number don’t). This extreme low vision of the no-light oncoming ‘flying machine’ is also bad news on dark rainy days.

The knowledge of single lane approaching the speed has no limit! It makes it extremely dangerous trying to enter the highway from Douthie Road and vice versa turning into Douthie Road. An extremely bad accident just before Christmas is proof of that.

To minimise the danger, make the merging of the traffic before the end of the crest on the highway, all vehicles to have low beams and 80km/h max.

Theo Van Den Hoogen, Seville East

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

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Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

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MAIL 13

NEWS

Puggle found in mulch A tiny echidna puggle is on the road to recovery, receiving lifesaving care at Healesville Sanctuary after being found on its own in a mulch pile.

The lone wild puggle was discovered in mulch in a Yarra Junction backyard while the homeowner was gardening at the end of November, so the veterinary team from the Sanctuary’s Australia Wildlife Health Centre stepped in to help.

Healesville Sanctuary Senior Veterinary Nurse Sarah Kaiser said feeding the puggle had proved the biggest challenge.

At approximately 16 weeks old the youngster should still be drinking milk excreted from its mother’s mammary glands, instead the Sanctuary team is feeding it a specially formulated milk via a syringe and dripping small amounts into a silicon bowl. The milk is high fat, low lactose, replicating its mother’s milk.

“Feeding was difficult at first, however after a week we had success, and now the puggle regularly eats up to 25 per cent of its body weight in one sitting,” Mrs Kaiser said. “Feeding usually takes place every five days or so to replicate what would occur in the wild.

“The little one is doing really well and putting on the right amount of weight to grow up strong and healthy.”

The puggle weighed less than 500 grams when it arrived and is now tipping the scales at 788 grams at its last weight check on Friday 6 January.

It will soon be moving from the hospital ward environment to a different environment filled with natural substrate such as mulch.

The team at Healesville Sanctuary will be offering broken-down logs to the echidna puggle as a source of enrichment and within the next month the weaning process will begin with solid foods offered to the mono-

The puggle is continuing to improve under the supervision of wildlife carers.

The echidna puggle was found in a Yarra Junction garden on a mulch pile. Pictures: ZOOS VICTORIA treme. The quills on the back of the echidna are also starting to become more prominent and sharp.

As the animal continues to improve, a decision will soon be made whether the animal

can be released back into the wild.

It is rare to see an echidna puggle at such an early age at the Australian Wildlife Health Centre, however it is common for the vets to see a variety of species.

This spring has been busy with 558 wildlife patients coming through the doors of the hospital.

In November alone, 199 wildlife cases required treatment. Road trauma-related incidents are a common reason.

Healesville Sanctuary’s Australian Wildlife Health Centre treats more than 2,000 wildlife patients each year. Sanctuary visitors can view the amazing work of the dedicated vets via the internal glass walls of the hospital.

For more information about what to do if you find an injured animal visit zoo.org.au/ emergency-wildlife-help or call the Australian Wildlife Health Centre on (03) 5957 2829.

Short-beaked echidnas can be found across most of Australia. Echidnas are an egg-laying mammal known as a monotreme.

Echidna puggles are usually born between September and November and, at about four to five months old quills appear on their back.

Need local staff?

Then give us the job...

Star Mail

Need local staff?

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

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CHARACTER IN ABUNDANCE

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 2514 Warburton Highway, YARRA JUNCTION Description: 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: $655,000 - $720,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Samantha Price 0438 795 190 or Tony Fanfulla 0419 870 513, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION, 5967 1277

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

Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

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MAIL 15

HOME FOCUS

CONTEMPORARY FAMILY HOME WITH STYLE POSITIONED beautifully on 1/2 an acre within walking distance to the Emerald township, this stunning, modern home is bursting with features and oozing with style.

Take in the spectacular view through the huge windows that frame your luxurious master suite which offers both a walk through robe and a sumptuous double showered ensuite, as well as a separate home office space. A further three large bedrooms, all containing built-in robes, are serviced by a modern and spacious family bathroom with free-standing bath and glass panel shower.

The home flows beautifully from your entry into the light filled family room and open plan kitchen featuring stone bench tops, stainless steel appliances, electric oven, gas stove and instant hot water.

Entertain guests or simply soak up the sunshine in the picturesque and tranquil surroundings when you step through the French doors onto the expansive deck.

Continue up the extra wide staircase and you are greeted with a second living space with doors opening out to the backyard.

Cleverly zoned to one side of this living space with built in TV and gas decorative fire is the master bedroom, while the other three bedrooms sit to the other side. The home also features reverse cycle air-conditioning and heating, as well as ducted gas heating and a further heat panel in the kitchen/ meals area.

Wander back towards the front of the home to the sealed asphalt driveway and expansive double lock up garage with generous workshop and workbench, ample storage space, additional pedestrian access door, water tank, power and concrete floor.

This is the one - time to move in, relax & enjoy. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 28 Poplar Crescent, EMERALD Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,150,000 - $1,250,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Samantha Scott 0438 680 032, BELL REAL ESTATE EMERALD 16 MAIL

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Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

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HOME FOCUS

BIG FAMILY LIVING WITH SPACE APLENTY THIS unique property offers something a little different and with plenty of space for the growing family.

Offering three good size bedrooms all with built-in wardrobes, spacious lounge/living area with a separate meals/dining area and a large open-plan kitchen with plenty of bench and cupboard space.

Outside offers covered verandahs front

and rear with an extra large carport and established gardens with a large array of flowering trees and shrubs.

The separate bungalow offers the ideal space for the extended family or teenagers, a great family home, very well presented with loads of room for everyone and conveniently located just a short stroll to local schools and public transport. l

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 32 Dean Crescent, Launching Place, VIC 3139 Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: $650,000 - $695,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: David Carroll 0419 539 320, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION. 5967 1277

P 5966 2530

P 5967 1277

3407 Warburton Highway, Warburton

1 Waters Place Buxton

$790,000 - $860,000

2457 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction

3459a Warburton Hwy, Warburton

$580,000 - $635,000

Modern Living with Peaceful Country Charm

Rare opportunity in the Main Street of Warburton

A stunning location and presented to perfection inside and out, situated on the tranquil Little Steavenson river and set on a park like setting on 1 glorious acre (approx). The home is modern, spacious and offers plenty of space for the growing family with 3 bedrooms all with built in robes including a walk in robe and ensuite in the large main bedroom. Multiple living zones with a lounge/ living and family/meals dining area offer plenty of space for everyone, entertain outside all year round with a family size covered entertaining area overlooking the picturesque and colorful back yard. Beautiful established gardens and an array of flowering trees, plants, shrubs and a king size veggie patch, a double carport/garage plus a huge separate lock up garage with loads of space perfect for the cars, boats and the caravan. Offering the ideal relaxed country lifestyle.

If you’ve been waiting for a unique chance to purchase a property with future potential then this may be the one! Prominent Warburton main street location close to the proposed new Supermarket development and surrounded by other established investment properties. The building consists of a shop front with two bedroom residence including a bathroom, kitchen and living area. The shop and residence is currently vacant allowing various options for the astute Purchaser and the rear portion of land is Leased until 2027. Wide frontage offers two large display windows and excellent visibility.

Add the bonus of the Warburton Mountain Bike track destination coming, the local sporting ground and facilities nearby plus a short walk to the beautiful Yarra River to enjoy a relaxing lifestyle.

David Carroll M 0419 539 320 Inspection:

By Appointment

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Rebecca Doolan M 0401 832 068 Inspection: Sat 2.30-3.00pm

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bellrealestate.com.au

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Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

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MAIL 17

HOME FOCUS

GREAT USABLE BLOCK OF HALF AN ACRE YOU will really enjoy the north facing aspect of this property, lovely outlook and great natural light throughout the year.

Featuring: 3 bedrooms all with BIRs Updated bathroom with bath and a separate shower Separate WC and laundry Spacious kitchen S/S appliances, dishwasher, under bench oven and hotplates Open plan lounge and dining Rear deck showing off the great views Outdoors you can drive right in and park under the double carport and bring the shopping straight in the front door. The garage is currently set up as a games room, it has a wood fire for the cooler months and offers potential for many uses. The fenced rear yard is terraced for ease of living with plenty of room for a playground. There is a cubby and chicken coop ready and waiting, lots of other shedding and grassed area to run and play even for the fur babies.

The location is excellent, you get the real ‘country living’ vibe, yet you are minutes to Cockatoo Township, walk/ride to Wrights Forest, then onto Emerald Lake Park for a fun fitness outing. ●

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HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 41 Second Avenue, COCKATOO Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 4 garage Price: $700,000 - $770,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Jane Mortimer 0457 620 542 and Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL, 9754 6111 18 MAIL

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Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

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Ranges

We put you first

TWO HOMES ON A fLAT 1/3 ACRE bLOCK

6 ACRE PRIVATE COUNTRY ESCAPE

COCkATOO 147 WOORI YALLOCK ROAd SECOND DWELLING WITH TENANT IN PLACE!

GEmbrOOk 28 MORbEY ROAd STUDIO (unfinished) WITH VIEWS

$895,000-$980,000 5A 3B 3C

Set on one title, this property offers a range of options. The main home is character filled with recycled timber doors, stain-glass windows, high ceilings, a claw foot bath in main bathroom & two living areas. Outside features a cosy deck, a red brick paved courtyard under the oak tree, studio, workshop, double carport with storage & room for the caravan too! The second double-storey independent 2 bedroom dwelling features an undercover verandah with views of the rural scenery over the road, a single carport & tool shed.

mick Dolphin 0429 684 522

Jane mortimer 0457 620 542

HOME ANd UNIT IN PRIVATE SETTING

COCkATOO 39 VIEW HILL ROAd SHANGrILA - ‘A-FrAmE’ IN THE HILLS

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

Superbly positioned for privacy & a peaceful existence, this property has a mix of oldgrowth trees, grassed sections, tiers & filtered distant mountain views. The picturesque setting is perfect for your dream home, or the perfect place to park your tiny home STCA. On the property is a permitted agricultural building with a large viewing deck & includes 10,000litre water storage, a rock driveway to the rear of the property and electricity is available at top of the property. The location is idyllic with Gembrook Township nearby.

mick Dolphin 0429 684 522

Janet Hawkins 0409 117 432

SURPRISING ANd SPECTACULAR!

$670,000 - $720,000 4A 2B C

Unique Hills living perched high in the treetops, surrounded by quiet & private gardens.

Add your own touches & complete renovations to make this property shine! features a large living space, wood fire, built-in lounge/sofa & bar & a quaint study/desk area. There is also a small fully self-contained unit/studio space attached to the home. Outside offers under-unit storage space, garden shed, multiple options for parking at the top of the driveway, fenced back yard, established gardens and a small animal paddock.

Jane mortimer 0457 620 542

$650,000-$700,000

mick Dolphin 0429 684 522

UPWEy 33 HIGHCLIff ROAd SPACIOUS, VIEWS, GrEAT LOCATION!

$990,000-$1,089,000 5A 2B 3C 1E

Understated cottage frontage that is larger than seems and offers a welcoming waterfall & pond centered garden, stunning northerly views of the gardens & mountains at rear, a spacious study/6th bedroom, combustion fire, Jarrah flooring & cabinetry, hydronic heating, 6kW Solar Power system, under house workshop & storage, rainwater tanks, large decking, large parental retreat with a private deck & outdoor spa, downstairs features a massive living & rumpus, a bar & 4 bedrooms - ideal teenage or multi-generational living.

mick Dolphin 0429 684 522

“We Put You First”

Jane mortimer 0457 620 542

1 Bayview Rd, Belgrave Shop 2, 24 McBride Street, Cockatoo Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

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MAIL 19

HOME FOCUS

STYLISH SINGLE-LEVEL HOME IN QUIET COURT IN this quiet court position a wonderful way of life awaits, one of style and simplicity set over a single level of complete comfort.

Positioned in the coveted Mountain Gate Primary School zone near Cutler Close Playground, Westfield Knox, and Ferntree Gully Station, this property is the perfect investment in livability and location.

This move-in ready home is framed by meticulously presented, easy-care gardens and a double garage for convenience. Upon entry, the indoor-outdoor connection this home affords is immediately apparent in the generous, carpeted lounge with views through to the alfresco. The hub of this home is the gourmet kitchen, boasting Ariston stainless steel gas range, crisp white cabinetry, and black tapware, that branches to the family room and outdoor entertaining area. With a covered alfresco adorned a high gable roofline, a garden filled with fruiting ballerina apples, and the bonus of a sound insulated studio, this impressive property is home to many more high-end features than most.

Furthermore, there are also 3 spacious bedrooms provided, including the main bedroom with walk-in robe and modern ensuite. The family bathroom with separate WC is enhanced with a soaker tub and luxurious rain shower.

Additional highlights include evaporative cooling and ducted heating, ample laundry, and cost-saving solar power.

Prepared to impress, this move-in ready home offers an outstanding lifestyle. Plan your viewing today.

Landscaped 628sqm (approx.) allotment with bonus sound insulated studio, fruiting gardens, shed, raised veggie beds, and exceptional covered alfresco Beautiful single-level residence with double garage and cost-saving solar power Lounge with floor to ceiling windows and quality carpet Stylish kitchen with Ariston gas range and modern black tapware Comfortable bedrooms, modern bathroom, and enviable ensuite main bedroom with walk-in robe ●

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HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 2 Rulla Court, FERNTREE GULLY Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Inspect: By appointment Contact: Brad Conder 0422 639 115 and Daniel Steen 0434 979 142, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 20 MAIL

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Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

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Real Estate you can trust!

We ’ r e h e r e t o h e l p FOR SALE

35 Gleghorn Road, KALLISTA

$1,080,000 - $1,180,000

EXCEPTIONAL PROPERTY WITH SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

4A2B4C

With an extensive list of lifestyle features, this fabulous property offers something special for every member of the family. With bonus elements including a stylish 1-bedroom studio, sealed drive with triple carport and double garage, fruit orchard, and paddock with picturesque Warburton Ranges views, this is an exceptional opportunity not to be missed, plan your viewing today.

FOR SALE

$550,000 - $600,000

31 Jeeves Avenue, KALORAMA

3A1B

PROMISING HOME WITH PICTURESQUE OUTLOOKS

This peaceful property situated between Kalorama Park and Kalorama Oval is the ideal investment for renovators or first homebuyers seeking a slice of the Dandenong Ranges lifestyle. With beautiful hillside views and a no through road location near bus transport, Central to many local walking tracks, parks and playgrounds this is an opportunity to live someplace special.

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

Suzie Brannelly

Brad Conder

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

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

FOR SALE

352 Glenfern Road, UPWEY FAMILY RESIDENCE ON HALF AN ACRE

$1,260,000 - $1,380,000 5A3B6C

A flawless fusion of space, style, and superb outdoor entertaining areas, this centrally situated residence in a prime Glenfern Rd location is ready to impress. Focused on providing premier family comfort in a prized lifestyle location only moments from public transport, schools, shopping, and restaurants, this is a top lifestyle property with all the trimmings.

FOR SALE

$685,000 - $750,000

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

3A 2B 2C

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.

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

Daniel Steen

Sharyn Chandler

M 0434 979 142 | E daniel@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, 17 January, 2023

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MAIL 21

PUZZLES

DOWN Fellow employee (2-6) US city known as ‘The Windy City’ (7)

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6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

9-LETTER WORD 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”.

A

Today’s Aim: 13 words: Good 19 words: Very good 26 words: Excellent

A

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4 LETTERS BENT BETS GETS IRIS LADE LASS OVAL RELY RIDE SAME SAYS SEAS SODS SPED 5 LETTERS ADAGE

LISTS LIVID LOBES MASON NYLON OUNCE PEDAL PIANO QUITE REALM REEDS SHAMS SITED SKILL SLEPT SNAKE SOLAR SQUAD STAVE STONE SUEDE

ages, ease, gasman, gasmen, manages, MANGANESE, mans, manse, means, mesa, mesne, nags, names, saga, sage, same, sane, sang, seam, seaman, seamen, seem, seen, semen, senna, snag

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No. 116

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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 ( ' $ /

No. 116

6 + $ 0 6

SUDOKU

20-01-23

This week’s crossword proudly sponsored by

The Heritage Family

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

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SPORT

A winning return

Tough day of cricket for Junction

By Bryce Edwards Wandin 1st XI vs. Yarra Glen 1st XI Round 8 14/1/23 Wandin’s 1st XI would take on Yarra Glen in their first round back in 2023.

With Wandin just out of the top four, it was a must-win for them.

Wandin’s Captain David Thorne would lose the toss and Yarra Glen would choose to bat first it would be a hot day in the field with the temperatures set to hit 38 degrees.

Wandins opening bowlers would struggle a little at the start with Yarra Glen racing to 0-46 but the change of bowler in Jamie Oakley would get Wandin’s first wicket.

After Wandin manage to get their first wicket, they would keep their foot down with constant wickets falling and eventually bowling out Yarra Glen for 83.

Hamish Lammott 0/26 off 4 overs Daniel Trembath 1/20 off 7 overs Jamie Oakley 2/9 off 3 overs Leigh Curwood 4/23 off 5 overs David Marshall 3/1 off 4 overs With a small total of 83 to chase, Wandins opening batters Rod Aitken and Jamie Elliott would get to work and bat superbly managing to chase down the total without losing a wicket in 14 overs.

It was a great effort from all Wandin Players in hot conditions.

On Sunday, Wandin Cricket Club women and Yarra Valley Veterans Cricket Club combined to play The Wally Walker double wicket competition at Wandin.

The event is named in memory of Yarra Valley veteran cricketer Ian Walker who passed away last year.

It was a fun day, there were 8 teams of two players each with every team facing 16 balls and then bowling 16 balls against their opponent.

In the grand final play off, the John Masters/ Greg Johnson team narrowly defeated the Phil Jackson/Tom Steele team with John Masters and Phil Jackson providing some power hitting by smashing six 6s between them.

Wandin President Bryce Edwards said the event was a great success and mentioned that there will be more days like this in the future.

The winners received medals, and those that knew Wally will remember that he never had a hair out of place, so the runners up prize was a tub of hair gel, very appropriate.

Thanks to the Wandin Cricket Club and Peter Whitworth for organising a great day.

· ·

By Rob Boxell

· · · · ·

Wandin opening batter and league-leading run-scorer Rod Aitken slashes at the wide delivery.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Healesville 1st and 2nd XI try to beat heat Seniors 1st XI – Healesville v Warranwood 8/273 (Day one of two-dayday game) – by Josh Handasyde This week the Healesville 1st XI faced Warranwood in the first week of the two-day match.

On a scorching 38-degree day, the Bloods lost the toss and were sent into the field. Warranwood were able to get off to a strong start before Dillon Kerr was able to snag three quick wickets, putting Warranwood on the back foot, but Warranwood were able to build partnerships throughout the day, largely thanks to 81 from Luke Scott. Healesville’s bowler s bowled well without luck with Mitch Tampaline 1/45 off 20 including 7 maidens and Josh Handasyde 1/57 of 18 with 5 maidens bowling almost half the overs. Jack Drummond pushed through a 10over spell and claimed 2/42, Brenton Damrow bowled 8 overs straight before succumbing to the heat to claim 1/13 and Dillon Kerr 3/49 off 13 was a notable performance with the ball.

For Warranwood a 64* from Brandon Ryan was able to help them progress to 8/273 at the end of play on the fast Queens park outfield. Next week the Bloods have a goal to reach 274 to snare the 8 points up for grabs which will be crucial to keep finals hopes alive.

Seniors 2nd XI – Healesville 42 defeated by Bayswater Park 6/118 (One day game) On a blisteringly hot summer’s day, Healesville travelled to Ferntree Gully to play Bayswater Park. Healesville lost the toss and was mailcommunity.com.au

Healesville cricketers braved the heat. asked to bowl first. Blake Rallis opened the bowling and when his dad “Rowdi” Rallis took a great catch that swirled around in the wind, Healesville was on top early. In trying conditions the Healesville players displayed great enthusiasm in the field and with another wicket to Blake Rallis, Bayswater Park was on the backfoot at 3/15. Captain Scott Fawdry bowled his bowlers in 3 over spells given the heat and this worked well as we contained

3rd XI vs Seville The threes travelled down the highway to Warburton for their first match back after Christmas. Winning the toss and choosing to bat first in sweltering 38-degree heat, the guys had a rough run of it, with Aaron Stewart, Daniel Van De Maat, Dale Treller and Glen Peake all crossing into double figure scores but unable to kick on. Posting 75 for the home side to chase, it was always going to be difficult.

Ernie Clark and Trellar picked up early wickets to have the opposition 3/25. Despite tight bowling efforts, they were unable to make another breakthrough which saw Seville pass the score in the 20th over. A lean run has seen the 3rds slump to sixth on the ladder, however, with returning players into higher grades, the team is confident of a finals berth.

Yarra Junction 10/75 defeated by Seville 3/77 2nd XI vs Coldstream Skipper Marcel Kocher won the toss and chose to bat first. A strong Coldstream bowling attack proved to be too much for the undermanned Yarra Junction outfit as they slumped to 73, with only Kocher and Toby Hawkins able to reach double figures.

A brief glimpse of hope came when Kocher took a screamer of a catch of Toby Pilton to get the first wicket with the score on 11, but it proved not to be as the home side cruised to victory with the loss of only one more wicket.

The 2nd XI will now regroup with the post-holiday jitters out of the system, as they look to stay in touch of the top 4.

Yarra Junction 10/73 defeated by Coldstream 2/76 1st XI vs South Warrandyte Losing the toss and being sent out into the field in scorching weather, Yarra Junction’s flagship side toiled for 80 overs in the field. The first breakthrough came as Kevin Bomford managed to bowl Michael Crosbie with the score on 52. Wickets came at regular intervals, but were unable to stem the run rate, as South Warrandyte cruised at 4 an over for most of the day. When Bomford picked up his third wicket, taking the score to 6/290 in the 70th over, a light at the end of the tunnel seemed visible. However, South Warrandyte Captain Andy Solomons went ballistic, hitting 73 off 33 balls, while Dan Wilson knocked it about at the other end to reach 100 not out.

With a total of 417 to chase down, it is going to take some extraordinary efforts from the Yarra Junction batsmen on day two.

Yarra Junction vs South Warrandyte 6/417 (K Bomford 3/127)

Picture: ON FILE Baywater Park to 6/118 off 35 overs. Darcy English also took 2 wickets late in the innings.

Unfortunately, our batting innings saw wickets continually fall and with no partnerships or no great individual performance, Healesville was bowled out for 42.

Junior cricket is yet to return from the holiday break and the 3rd and 4th XI games were called off due to heat rules.

Yara Junction struggled in the heat after the Christmas break.

Picture: ON FILE Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

|

MAIL 25

SPORT

Early games to keep cool

By Ian Milgate Healesville were at home on Saturday 14 January hosting two teams, Bayswater and Templestowe.

It was under extreme hot conditions, although games started at 10.30am rather than the 1.00pm time to avoid the excessive heat.

Everyone was keen to get back into it after the Christmas new year break and although Healesville were missing quite a few players out of the teams, they performed extremely well.

The second team had to play with only three players per rink due to insufficient players which means over a day’s play, they had 126 less bowls than their opponents and still only going down by four shots, a remarkable effort.

Team 1 played Bayswater, who were above us on the ladder and with up to five key players out, we thought we would struggle but the team worked together well all day to get a

good win 99 - 77.

Adrian Beales, Bob Brown, Glenda Graham, James Beales 25 - 17 Mark Ward, Steve Bulled, Brad Chandler, Chris Hawting 34 -19 Steve Graham, Robyn Turville, Robert Ayres, Gerda Otto 20 - 22 Mark Hoffman, Colin Lowe, John Howard, Ian Milgate 20 - 19 Team 2 played Templestowe and this was going to be a tuff ask with 3 less players but to their credit they fought it out and finally went down 47 - 51 Russell Smith, Rob Broadhurst, Judy Veermann 19 - 10 Barry Parker, Wally Mays, Ted Upton 15 - 21 Mike Adams, Effie Laban, Leonie Fitzpatrick 13 - 20 Overall on a very hot day and depleted of players a great effort by everybody.

It was a hot day to return to the greens for the Saturday pennant.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Yarra Junction Bowls mourns a great loss Tough start for Burras

By Peter Brennan

The flags at Yarra Junction Bowling Club were flying at half mast over the Christmas break in memory of Stan Anderson, who died at home on Christmas day, aged 90. A highly talented bowler, he was runner-up in the club championship just a few years ago. He was a gentleman in the true sense of the word, and a thoroughly good bloke. He will be missed.

Stan would have been useful on Saturday, though he would have probably invoked a heat policy and given it a miss. The Pennant season resumed after the Christmas break, and Yarra Junction Bowling Club travelled to Cockatoo to play a combined Cockatoo-Monbulk team.

With three consecutive losses before Christmas, a win was imperative, but it was not to be.

Owing to a weather forecast in the high thirties the match was moved to a morning start, and the lunch break was abandoned. It was very hot, and some players struggled. Of the four rinks two were very close, with Junction ultimately losing one by two points, the other ending in a hard-fought draw. Unfortunately, the other two rinks were substantial losses for Junction, and Cockatoo-Monbulk registered a comprehensive win overall. This enhances their finals prospects, but unfortunately for Yarra Junction finals are now slipping away.

However it is still mathematically possible, even if the mathematics required is becoming increasingly adventurous and far-fetched, and the possibility of playing finals is more and more improbable. But time will tell, and there is no giving up.

The Midweek competition resumes this week, with Yarra Junction currently

By Garry Lewis

A good turnout for the ever-popular Barefoot Bowls.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

in third position.

Barefoot Bowls began on Friday evening, with a large turnout of people who seemed to enjoy themselves immensely. Every rink was occupied, the bar was popular, and it looks like being a very successful event for the remainder of summer, starting at 6.30pm every Friday evening. Highly recommended, come on down! Equipment and instruction are available, music and a sausage sizzle on a warm summer evening, and a good time will be had by all. Information on the club website and Facebook page, or just turn up.

R.I.P Stanley Joseph Anderson “Stan”

· 13.10.32 - 25.12.22.

Vale Stan Anderson.

Big turnout at Warburton Golf Club

By Ron Hottes

·

Wednesday 11 January, Stableford: And so, welcome to a brand-new year of golf.

I sincerely hope, for all of you, it is “laden” with birdies and, then in turn, vouchers!

Although golf at Warburton has continued throughout the Christmas/New Year period, it is only now that close to full-size fields are returning to the competitions. This midweek day was no exception, with nearly 40 members, and a couple of visitors, contesting for the 2 vouchers available! Those involved would want me to tell all of you what great condition the course is in, especially for this time of year ( Well done Paul and Andrew!) And someone who really benefitted from those superb conditions was none other than that old “evergreen”, Ossie McClay, who posted the best round of the day—a sparkling 39 points. This meant that Ossie took home the B-Grade voucher. One point less, 38, was still enough for Shane Campbell to snare the A-Grade prize. ( Good work, Bomber!) Ron Wilson was the official runner-up with 38 points too---another fair effort! Balls extended to 34, with Your Loyal Scribe being the last one listed to get a ball-26 MAIL

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Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

would be declared the outright winner! Balls reached 18 only. NTP’s went to Kenno (1st), Seth (3rd) and to Peter Fox (9th).

Saturday 14 January, Stableford: On a day of high temperatures and uncomfortable conditions, which tested both young and old alike, the member who dealt the best with that adversity was Neil Leckenby, recording a very impressive 41 points, to grab the A-Grade voucher. This would have pleased Mr. Scotland, as it clearly proved to any “doubters” that he can play good golf in conditions far removed from the mists of his homeland! The B-Grade prize was taken home by Stephen Noonan, with 40 solid points! Noons played with me at Thursday Twilight, and was showing definite signs of an excellent round “just around the corner!”

The daily runner-up was Jimmy Stewart, with 41 points. ( It’s a shame you posted that in A-Grade, James, as you got “pipped” by Neil on a countback!) Balls got down to 35 only. And, there was a full list of NTP winners, they being--- Peter Fox (3rd), Simon Spenceley (5th), Michael Batten (9th), James Stewart (12th) and to Raymond “Happy” Gilmore (15th).

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Plenty of golfers turned out at the Warburton Golf Club last week.

Picture: ON FILE -whew! NTP winners on the day were Happy Gilmore (3rd), Jon Peitch ( 5th AND 9th!), Kevin Conway (12th) and to Andy Lockey (15th).

TWILIGHT: Twilight never really ceased during the festive season, but the most recent result sheet showed a stunning win to Junior Spenceley, with 23 points, if you don’t mind! Seth is right up there with a crack at the Top-Ten shootout in a couple of months! The runner-up was Richard Sullivan, who posted a solid 22 points, meaning on many other Twilights, he

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In extremely hot and trying conditions for bowls, both Warburton Weekend Sides went down in a disappointing start following the break.

The Weekend Warburton 1 side played away against Essendon 1. In windy conditions, the Burras went down 63 shots to 94.

Rink scores were as follows: C. Neale 23/ 20; T. Appleton 9/ 25; A. Donohue 11/ 29 And C. Lord 20/ 20. They play Montmorency 1 away this weekend still determined to record another victory.

Warburton 2 played Chirnside Park 2 away in difficult conditions and struggled overall to go down 55 shots to 97.

Rink Scores were P. Summers 7/ 27; G. Lewis 14/ 37; T. Ruwoldt 11/ 18 and S. Darwall 22/ 15. They play Boronia 3 away this week in an important game leading up to the finals.

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

The Wednesday Night Barefoot Bowls Triples Competition recommences on January 25 with a series of doubleheaders to make up for lost time due to poor weather conditions before the break.

Once again the Club is conducting its’ PINK DAY Triples Tournament, sponsored by Professionals Real Estate, on Sunday February 12 2023 from 12pm.

Female and Male entries accepted of all abilities, including Beginners. $10 per player ($30 per team) Three games, Raffle and Prizes and BBQ Sausage Sizzle. All proceeds to go towards the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

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

The Warburton Bowls Club continues to welcome any new or beginning members to join their small but progressive community club. Social Bowls continue to be played on Mondays from 12pm with excellent numbers regularly participating. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun!

GO BURRAS!

Warburton’s bowlers at work against Chirnside Park.

Picture: SUPPLIED mailcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Sisters race back to back

By Callum Ludwig Millgrove’s Simpson Sisters, Bree and Tamika, have had a busy week on the track, competing in the Speedway Sedans Australia National Title and the Victorian Title back to back.

The National Title was held at Borderline Speedway in Mount Gambier from 5 to 7 January and the Victorian Title on Saturday 14 January in Nyora. Tamika said there were a lot of cars out on the track in the National Title, and it got a bit rough in the end.

“It was good out there though it was rough, but there are certainly a lot less cars in the Victorian title, which will be a bit easier,” she said.

“I’m happy with how I went and it will be good with not as many cars on the track. I will be looking to try and keep out of the crashes and rough stuff.”

On Friday 5 January, Tamika recorded finishes of 8th-5th-5th to be sitting at 46th position and feeling a bit deflated alongside Bree.

On Saturday, Tamika drove well despite not quite getting the finish she wanted in 8th, before finishing 9th in the B’main, bringing an end to her night.

Bree similarly found the racing hard and fast on Friday night, with her finishes of 5th3rd-5thonly enough for 29th position.

Bree said the first night wasn’t so good, but felt she got going in the second.

“We got a big win on the second night, it was very rough out there but we got going and started passing cars. Once you get up the front,

you just want to take off and go,” she said.

Bree’s big win in the B’main was enough to qualify her for the finale. She missed the start but soon got back into the race, up to 12th by the first stoppage.

With only 10 laps to go, the race is restarted in single-file, so Bree fought hard and was sitting in ninth with seven laps to go. With only three laps left and in eighth place, she hit a rut and was unable to hold onto it, colliding with another car and then the wall and ending her race prematurely.

“We didn’t quite finish, but we made up nine spots within the 22 laps which was a good effort,” Bree said.

Bree said as the Victorian title was only one night, neither she nor Tamika can afford to have a bad night.

“You never know how we will go, but there is a big gap in numbers compared to the National Title and it will be easier to get up the front. However, everyone will still be aiming to be number one.”

The Victorian Title held more success for the Simpson Sisters, with both qualifying for the A’Main after positive finishes in the heats.

Bree was starting at the 14th position and Tamika at the 15th. On the second complete restart, Tamika’s window net fell down after an impact of getting hit and had to finish on the infield. Bree was unimpeded and made up a few spots finishing 8th overall. Bree and Tamika will now have a couple of weeks off before they get racing again in February.

Bree in practice before the SSA National Title.

Picture: SUPPLIED

New competition for Healesville team Callen’s column Ian Callen Beginning Thursday 2 February at Royal Healesville, Healesville golfers will tee up for ‘Team Golf’ - a series that will be played over eight weeks between Team Riddell, Team Nicholson and Team Rael to decide the championship team for 2023.

Last Friday a player draft process was overseen by the respected golfing guru Max McIntosh to allow team captains; Steve Oates (Rael) Malcolm Moore (Riddell) and Laurie Tormey (Nicholson) to select their respective playing lists for the event.

Normally the game of golf is played as an individual sport against the conditions and the course, whether the competition be stroke, par or stableford. But organisers are hoping ‘Team Golf’ will motivate golfers interest, without it being detrimental to the normal golfing routines.

The team with the best six scorecards will be awarded the four points on offer each round to ultimately decide the 2023 premiership team. Aside from the four points on offer for the premiership round, each team will participate in a weekly “Stableford” competition.

Team captains, no later than 6pm the evening prior to competition, will nominate six golfers from their respective playing lists to play two particular holes each and six golfers

Daniel Sanders on the finish podium of the Dakar rally 2023.

Picture: RED BULL CONTENT POOL

Max McIntosh pictured with team captains Laurie Tormey, Malcolm Moore and Steve Oates as they finalise their playing lists for 2023 season.

Picture: SUPPLIED for the remaining holes to decide the Stableford result.

Each week including this week’s practice match a gift voucher from the “Alba Paloma” Cafe on Nicholson will be awarded to the winning team list.

If you are RACV Golfing Season Pass holder and your name is not listed and you would like to be, please contact one of the team captains.

Team Riddell Steve Cubela, Malcolm Moore*, Max McIntosh, Tony Battaini, Roger Jones, David Hutchins, Mark Donovan, Billy Gordon, Doug Smith, Peter Doyle, Geoff Cooper, Rennie Mathieson, David Egan, Shane O’Brien, Brian Kidston, Allan Litchfield, John Stewart, Alex Ward, Paul Harmer

Team Nicholson Geoff Hopkins, Tony Druit, Alan Davidson, Laurie Tormey*, Peter Gerbert, Jan O’Brien, Garth Wiley, Lyn Phillips, Robert Gilbert, Ralph Keable, Ian Callen, Bruce McMicking, Rod Paykel, Karl Hradsky, Greg Whimp, Manfred Hennig, David Pitcher, Fred Lloyd, Rob Hennessey Team Rael Tony Purdie, Steve Oates*, Ian McMinn, Kennith Emslie, Don Stevenson, Billy Gordon, Rob Johnston, Alistair Lee Archer, Ian Milgate, Peter Henry, Graham Stephens, John Lloyd, John Stanhope, Greg Urquhart, Gerry de Bont, Alan Larkin, Beau Haye, Sydney Anderson, Rob Reid, Peter Davidson *Denotes Captain

Horse Talk updates return from the pony club

By Anita Prowse Horse Talk returns to Star Mail, with weekly contributions to come from Upper Yarra Pony Club District commissioner Anita Prowse: The next few weeks see many local events: Yarra Valley Pro Rodeo is back on Saturday 21 January with tickets available at Ticketebo, Upper Yarra Pony Club is hosting the annual Australia Day Freshmans, starting at 9.30am with entries available on the day with all proceeds from entries and canteen sales going towards grounds improvements. Come and watch and grab some yummy lunch, then the Wesburn Park sees Upper Yarra Adult Riders Dressage mailcommunity.com.au

Weekend on 28 and 29 January with entries open at Event Secretary.

Shirley Heights Equestrian Centre in Gladysdale is hosting an amazing four-day festival for HRCAV riders February 16-19 includes a Show, Dressage, Combined Training and Horse Trials, with camping and entertainment Saturday night, which promises to be an awesome few days. Entries are open at Event Secretary.

While the warmer and dryer weather has given hay production a boost, it has been distressing to hear of a few horses in the area that have been left without adequate water and shelter during warm days. Please ensure your horses are comfortable on our hot days and

allow for extra consumption of water and the need for shade.

Unfortunately, there have also been reports on social media about drivers recklessly endangering people riding their horses. This behaviour is unacceptable and incredibly dangerous and should be immediately reported.

On a happier note, the Home Hotel has put in some fantastic yards for those riding down the trail for a meal.

Any local riders out and about competing, please send your results to anita.horses@ gmail.com.

Happy riding everyone!

Daniel Sanders takes 7th After a gruelling two weeks of racing in the Saudi-Arabian desert, Three Bridges’ Daniel ‘Chucky’ Sanders has achieved a very respectable seventh-place finish in the Dakar Rally.

It was always going to be a tough ask for Sanders to get back into the top racers after battling food poisoning on Stage Five, but he did make up a fair bit of a ground with his final time just under 26 minutes behind overall winner Kevin Benavides.

Sanders had second-place finishes in both Stage 11 and Stage 12 and said the first week of Dakar was an up and down week.

“We had a lot of positives at the start, had some good speed and good results and then I got a stomach bug and I got really sick for a couple days. Hopefully in the next couple days we can tighten up the gap up the front and fight for the win,” he said after Stage Eight.

“It was good to push and learn the pace again and push out front – that was good fun. I think we’re in a good spot for tomorrow [Stage 12]. It was just good fun out there. It was pretty hot and demanding, but it was good fun.”

“I’m slowly getting a little bit better in the dunes, getting back into the rhythm.”

Tuesday, 17 January, 2023

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MAIL 27

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