Mail - Mt Evelyn Star Mail - 21st February 2023

Mount Evelyn

Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

Mail

Another local bank service to close

Plans to improvement Kilsyth reserve

Push for road upgrades after fatal crashes

Light installation to get underway in Croydon

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A Star News Group Publication

Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808

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Let’s talk trash

By Mikayla van Loon

A petition has been started to change the way hard rubbish is collected throughout the Yarra Ranges. 319962 drivebys, with Mooroolbark residents taking to the community noticeboard to call people out.

“Thank you so much to the person who drove up our court at 11pm at night with their trucks high beams on, stopping at each house and then searching on our property with torch-

es through hard rubbish,” one person said.

“Thanks for your lights shining right into our bedroom, waking me up and scaring me!

It’s a bit disconcerting to see torches and movement out [the] front of your house at 11pm.”

Continued page 2

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While Mr Citrine said you may still get people rummaging through the rubbish “the difference is it’s not known to everybody that it’s hard rubbish time” reducing the disturbances and mess.

Many people have experienced nighttime

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A petition to change the way hard rubbish is collected throughout the Yarra Ranges has attracted over 130 signatures after being started early last week.

Organiser of the petition Travis Citrine said seeing the disgraceful placing of hard rubbish on nature strips weeks before collection ignited the need for a petition.

“It just looks horrible, that’s the biggest thing. If you look around the streets of Mooroolbark at the moment, it’s like a rubbish tip,” he said.

“For a lot of others, there are people just driving around at night, disturbing people’s peace. That hasn’t really happened to me, I have had people rummage through if I’ve had boxes…and then leave rubbish all over the place.”

Yarra Ranges Council currently uses an annual scheduled system, where hard rubbish is collected from January to March across all 55 towns and roughly 61,500 properties in the shire.

Mr Citrine is calling for the system to be changed to a twice yearly booked collection decided on at the resident’s discretion.

“I lived in Maroondah prior to moving to Yarra Ranges Council and Maroondah has a booked system, they’ve had it like that for a long time and it works very well,” he said.

“You can book your hard rubbish online, they mail you out a sticker and the weekend before your collection, you just put it all out on the lawn and then you might have a pile every once in a while but for the main part of the suburb looks pretty clean.”

NEWS

Hard rubbish piles have been strewn across lawns on Greenslopes Drive in Mooroolbark. 319962

Over 130 people want to see hard rubbish moved to booked collections to prevent people rummaging through piles like this one on Hawthory Rd, Kilsyth. 319962

Calls to change pick ups From page 1 Another resident also commented on the inconsiderate behaviour of some people placing their rubbish on other people’s piles, making a mess leaving the resident responsible for cleaning it up.

“I love living in Mooroolbark and I don’t mind the dozens of cars who stop to have a look at our hard rubbish.

“However, I’m a bit disgusted at people who rummage through our hard rubbish and leave it strewn across the nature strip.”

Despite these concerns, Yarra Ranges Council planning and sustainable futures director Kath McClusky said the scheduled collections are the most cost effective and reliable for residents.

“Because our municipality is spread over

2500 square kilometres, it is extremely cost effective to run a scheduled collection, where an entire street has their waste collected at the same time,” she said.

“Having on-call collections would result in a much higher cost for the service, which would be passed on to residents through their annual waste charge.”

Ms McClusky said for the residents who live in the more regional parts of the shire, booked collections potentially during winter are not feasible.

“The collection also runs through the driest part of the year – this is because we have many unsealed roads, some with steep terrain, and the collection trucks for hard waste are significantly heavier than regular kerbside bin trucks.

“In wet weather, many items would pose a risk to the contractors to manage, and there would be added difficulties accessing our remote properties.”

With the changes to Victoria’s kerbside bin collections, Ms McClusky said throughout 2022 the community was asked about on-call hard rubbish collections.

“From more than 7000 responses, 75 per cent of people said they’d prefer collections to continue at a set time. 72 per cent of respondents said they wanted the current timing of January-March to continue.

“We’re now finalising our Community Waste and Resource Recovery Plan, for release later this year – largely focusing on wheelie bin collections and recycling changes - but the current arrangement of our hard waste system

is unlikely to change for the reasons above.”

Mr Citrine said he would let the petition run for a little while longer before contacting each respondent for the appropriate details needed to submit it to the council.

“I’ll just let it run for a little bit until the next meeting. I’ll have to extract the people who have signed the petition and I’ll email them privately with an actual form to put those details down for me,” he said.

“Then I can submit that to the council properly in the format they need it. I’ll probably go to the next council meeting and see how it goes.”

The petition can be found here www. change.org/p/change-hard-rubbish-collections-to-a-booked-system

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Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

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NEWS

IN BRIEF

By Mikayla van Loon Another local bank branch will be closing its doors next month with the move cited as being due to a downturn in customers using the branch.

Bank of Melbourne’s Chirnside Park store will be closing on Friday 10 March, the third Westpac Group branch to close in six months locally.

“Westpac has more than five million digitally active customers and we know their expectations are changing. That’s why we’re investing in digital services so our customers can bank with us anywhere, at any time,” a Westpac Group spokesperson said.

“Changing and declining customer use of branches means that in some instances, we may make a difficult decision to close a branch.”

Lilydale’s Westpac and Croydon’s Bank of Melbourne were the last two to shut their doors late last year, leaving ATM services available but customers had been advised to use the Chirnside Park branches for their banking needs.

“Bank of Melbourne customers can do their cash transactional banking over-the-counter at Westpac Chirnside Park, which is also located in Chirnside Park Shopping Centre, and can perform fee-free ATM transactions at the

The Bank of Melbourne branch at Chirnside Park Shopping Centre will be closing in March.

Picture: GOOGLE MAPS Westpac ATM,” the spokesperson said.

“Additionally, many customers can continue to access the same cash services locally via Bank@Post at Chirnside Park LPO, less than 100m away from our current branch.”

The closures are part of the most recent countrywide shutdown of bank branches by Westpac Group, which includes Bank of Melbourne, Westpac and Bank SA and will see 20 branches across four states close affecting 91 jobs.

Finance Sector Union (FSU) secretary Julia Angrisano said these closures were abandoning customers and businesses, leaving them without the full financial services they deserve.

“Westpac is brazenly closing branches month after month as a means of propping up profits and bonuses for senior executives,” Ms Angrisano said.

Westpac’s Full Year report released in November last year indicated a turnover of $5.65 billion, an increase of four per cent, while costs reduced by 19 per cent in 2022.

“It is simply outrageous that Westpac can continually kill off jobs and close branches and nothing is being done to stop them,” she said.

Further Westpac branch shutdowns will occur in Brandon Park, Robinvale, Sale and Denmark, while Bank of Melbourne will close its Casey, Moonee Ponds, Melton Woodgrove, South Melbourne, Malvern and Waurn Ponds stores.

“We always notify our customers in advance about the changes and directly connect them with the services they need to continue to do their banking,” the Westpac spokesperson said.

“For those who are new to digital banking, or may require more assistance with the changes, we provide dedicated support and education to make the transition easier.”

The next closest Bank of Melbourne branch is at Eastland Shopping Centre.

Bank of Melbourne customers can call 132 266 to talk to one of its bankers about the changes.

New driver distraction rules to drive in With 49 deaths already recorded on Victorian roads as of 14 February 2023, the Victorian Government is cracking down on distracted drivers with new rules in place from March 2023.

Research has shown the risk of drivers crashing increases when texting, browsing or emailing, with one-third of drivers admitting to using their phone illegally while driving.

Distraction is also involved in at least 11 per cent of fatalities – equal to 20 people each year whose death is avoidable. Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne said everyone has a role to play in keeping our roads safe.

“Distraction is deadly – which is why we’re introducing these new road rules to protect the lives of Victorians,” she said.

“When you’re driving, please make the right choices – pay attention and don’t be distracted.”

The new rules will extend existing mobile phone rules to cover modern technology such as in-built vehicle systems, mounted devices, wearable/portable devices such as smartwatches and tablets and bring Victoria in line with the Australian Road Rules.

Stronger conditions will apply to learner and probationary drivers, including not touching any portable device, taking phone calls or using voice control unless parked.

New mobile phone and seatbelt detection camera technology will also be implemented to help catch people using their mobile phones and not wearing their seatbelts while driving. They use AI-enabled camera systems ADVERTISEMENT

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Minister for Police Anthony Carbines said too many drivers continue to put lives at risk using mobile phones behind the wheel.

“We’re deterring this type of risky behaviour on our roads with these new road rules, as well as phone and seatbelt detection technology,” he said.

“We need every motorist to make the right decisions when they’re behind the wheel.

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Residents in Mount Evelyn had an early morning wake up call as a fire broke out on a back decking of a property.

Seven CFA units from Bayswater, Lilydale, Montrose, Mt Evelyn and Yellingbo responded to the fire on Gardner Parade in Mount Evelyn at around 5.39am on Sunday 19 February.

It took four crew members in breathing apparatuses to access the roof as the fire extended into the garage.

Relevant power and gas companies were called to the scene.

The incident was deemed under control at 6.11am, with the fire contained to an entertainment area at the rear of a structure wall.

“Crews were on scene within minutes and were able to extinguish the fire with minimal damage occurring. Most importantly, everyone was safe,” Mt Evelyn CFA posted to social media.

Ambulance Victoria were called to the scene to assess the home’s occupants.

The incident was deemed safe at 6.53am.

Healesville house fire Chirnside Park Fire Brigade members were called in to man the Healesville CFA station on Friday 17 February as crews turned out to a house fire around 7.30pm.

It became apparent that the house was fully engulfed with at least three brigades needed, alongside breathing apparatus equipment.

The three level split house was 80 per cent involved by fire.

It took crews two hours to get the fire under control and they remained on scene until around 2am to ensure the area was safe.

Bus replacements Train and bus passengers are advised of changes in the eastern suburbs over the next few months, as crews work to remove the level crossings on Mont Albert Road, Mont Albert and Union Road, Surrey Hills.

Buses will replace trains on the Belgrave and Lilydale lines between Camberwell and Box Hill, and at times between Camberwell and Ringwood from 8.30pm Friday, 17 February until late-May. During these works, crews will work around the clock to dig a 1.3km trench for the new rail line, demolish the existing Surrey Hills Station and rail infrastructure, carefully dismantle Mont Albert Station for relocation, and complete construction of the new Union Station.

Passengers are encouraged to visit ptv.vic. gov.au/disruptions for more information and to plan their journey.

Budget engagement Yarra Ranges residents are invited to help shape the council budget for 2023/24.

Engagement opened on Monday 30 January and the public has until Sunday 12 March to submit their ideas and feedback.

Residents have a number of different methods of providing a response, with options to share a quick 140-character comment or thought, spend five to 10 to share how they would invest $100, share a more detailed response by submitting a form or find a time to chat with the council team at a local pop-up event.

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Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

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Property subdivision amendment gains support

By Mikayla van Loon

The council meeting saw another strong turnout, with all 140 seats put out in use (aside from those reserved for registered speakers in the front row).

Picture: PARKER MCKENZIE

Full house

By Parker McKenzie Yarra Ranges Council meeting on Tuesday 14 February once again had a strong turnout of local residents, with all 140 seats used, and they were joined by a cohort of security guards hired by the council after last week’s adjournment.

Mayor Jim Child opened the meeting by acknowledging the lives lost during Ash Wednesday and Black Saturday.

“The 40th anniversary of Ash Wednesday is coming soon, a horrific bushfire event which claimed some 47 lives in Victoria,” he said.

“I’d like to acknowledge the anniversary of Black Saturday, which was recently as well.”

The previous meeting saw interjections from the gallery, resulting in Mayor Child adjourning the meeting and the police being called to the Civic Centre in Lilydale after those in attendance refused to leave.

There was anticipation from some — based on the presence of a photographer from The Age and an ABC reporter in the gallery — that it may occur again, however, the meeting was completed without issue.

During the public question time, the coun-

cil was asked about the use of Chinese-made security cameras throughout the shire.

Yarra Ranges Council’s Manager for Infrastructure Services Kim O’Connor responded to the question and said the council did have cameras manufactured by Hikvision.

“These cameras are standalone and not connected to our network systems,” he said.

“At this stage council will monitor the current concerns with respect to the use of Hikvision and Dahua cameras.”

The question mirrored current scrutiny in Canberra surrounding the two companies’ links to the Chinese government and their technologies used in sensitive departments and organisations.

Councillors opposing the planning permit for a petrol station in Yarra Junction received applause from the gallery, despite the motion passing.

A comment about “robust debate” being at the heart of council matters from the mayor received a mix of laughs and grumbling from the gallery, but otherwise, it was back to regularly scheduled programming for Yarra Ranges Council.

Support for the subdivision of an Old Hereford Road property has been garnered from stakeholder bodies after being exhibited late last year.

The property at 27-33 Old Hereford Road Mount Evelyn is a 5,160 square metre block of land with an existing dwelling currently sitting within a low-density residential zone, meaning subdivided blocks would both need to be 4000 square metres.

In June last year Yarra Ranges Council, on behalf of the applicant Lang Baulch, sought an individual amendment to the planning scheme from the State government to change the specific controls overlay to allow subdivision.

With a planning application for a second dwelling to be built on the property already approved, the amendment was exhibited between 13 October to 13 November receiving seven submissions.

Five submissions came from external organisations, while two were from individuals, one in support of the amendment and one in objection, which was later withdrawn.

Submissions from Yarra Valley Water, the Environment Protection Authority, AusNet, Melbourne Water and CFA did not object to the permit conditions.

“This has a very long history, it’s certainly a huge commitment by the owners of this particular site and it’s gone through a very lengthy process thus far,” Councillor Tim Heenan said.

“I’m very happy during the exhibition period last year that seven submissions were received and of course only one of

A planning scheme amendment has gained support for approval to subdivide a Mount Evelyn property.

Picture: YARRA RANGES COUNCIL those was opposing but was subsequently withdrawn.

“So this has been smooth sailing thus far and needs to continue on.”

Seconding the motion, Cr Sophie Todorov said it needed to be acknowledged that this property sat within an activity centre and should allow for this type of development.

“Apart from an extra dwelling, it’s not really changing the landscape of the parcels of land per se,” she said.

The recommendation to adopt the amendment was unanimously passed by the councillors and the decision will now be forwarded to the planning minister for approval of the planning scheme amendment.

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The home of the Eastern Ranges and AFL Outer East at Kilsyth Recreation Reserve has been noted for improvement by Yarra Ranges Council. 319961

Despite having a new pavilion, the surrounding areas need some work. 319961

Improvements for reserve

By Mikayla van Loon

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Eastern Ranges rooms will be overhauled if the master plan is approved after community consultation. 319961 best can we suit the whole of [the] community, how can we suit all demographics, the old, the young, those with disability…so I think it really puts a lot of thought to that and it’s not just a sports rec reserve,” she said.

Mr O’Meara said anything that helps make Kilsyth more attractive to the community and visitors, while showing off the natural landscape and view of the Dandenong Ranges, is welcomed.

“It’s crying out for the attention that council now appears to be giving it and we were very encouraged to hear that it was coming up for endorsement from the council to take it out to further stakeholder consultation,” he said.

Despite opening engagement with the community, funding wouldn’t become available until 2026 due to limited funds in the Walling Ward because of the purchasing of 150 Cambridge Road.

The council estimates the total overall cost of the project to be $3.8 million, of which $2.3 million would be funded by the council and the remainder hopefully contributed by State or Federal governments grant schemes.

A $45,000 contribution would also be sought from the AFL to improve the timekeeper’s room, scoreboard and coach boxes, with a further $20,000 contribution towards a new storage shed and nets behind the goals.

Raising concerns about the amount of money being spent in the Walling Ward area, Cr Andrew Fullagar said acknowledgement of other community needs is important.

“I have concerns about the amounts of money being spent in the Kilsyth area as a wider councillor view and of course I’m referring to Pinks Reserve and 150 Cambridge Road so perhaps there’s a need to coordinate priorities between these to fit our tight budgets,” he said.

“I’ll certainly be advocating for a shift towards our services away from sports and rec which seems to have dominated for a number of years.”

Community consultation will open on 27 February via the Shaping Yarra Ranges website, with residents encouraged to provide feedback on the plan.

“This motion gives us the opportunity to put it out to the public, there is a plan and I think it is a good one,” Cr Cox said.

“Like with all these things, the council actually does like to get public opinion on these issues and that will no doubt come in in quite large numbers.”

The gravel car park, sports ground and coaches boxes have all be flagged for upgrades. 319961

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The heart of Kilsyth is in the early stages of getting a revamp with the draft master plan for the recreation reserve to be released by Yarra Ranges Council at the end of the month.

Voting to put the draft plan out for community consultation at the council meeting on Tuesday 14 February, Councillor Len Cox said the reserve on Colchester Road is “extensively used by many many residents of Kilsyth”.

“This recreation reserve is one of the oldest and one I might add, of the most used in the Kilsyth area,” he said.

“It has a very high quality football come cricket oval and a number of other facilities for sport, plus it borders the Kilsyth shopping centre on one side and the Walmsley Retirement Village on the other.”

Used as the home ground for the Eastern Ranges Football Club and as the headquarters for AFL Outer East, the reserve is highly frequented by the sport going community.

But the draft master plan wants to create a family friendly and accessible community space that compliments the Kilsyth residential area.

Kilsyth Community Action Group (KCAG) chairman Mike O’Meara said the Kilsyth Recreation Reserve has so much potential to contribute to the liveability of the suburb if developed correctly.

“We see [the reserve] as an integral part of the heart of Kilsyth idea, which is really based around the Kilsyth shopping centre and Memorial Hall precinct. So any development there, we are extremely supportive of,” he said.

“The problem, of course, is it is a hidden treasure. People don’t know it’s there because it’s buried behind the Dan Murphy’s and the Woolworths area.”

Having been part of the initial consultation process a couple of years ago, Mr O’Meara said originally KCAG was pushing for some updated landscaping, better pathways and a playground.

With the tired and dilapidated tennis court club rooms left untouched, Mr O’Meara said another element KCAG suggested was a coffee shop or place of gathering.

“The two main things are a facility, whether it’s the old club rooms, or whether it’s something else, but [something] that attracts people to spend some time just relaxing and meeting.

“Whatever that facility looks like, if it encourages people to go behind the shopping centre, or come in through the football ground entrance or come up from Walmsley, that’s positive.

“The other thing is the playground. The nearest playground is, I think, Pink’s Reserve, and for the families who are using that shopping centre, that’d be just marvellous if they knew that they had something at the back there.”

A draft plan prepared in September 2022 lays the foundation for potential inclusions of a multi-purpose court, a playspace, pump track and sensory garden, with improved infrastructure.

Cr Sophie Todorov said the draft master plan indicates improved connectivity for local residents and takes into consideration all people who may use the reserve.

“It’s no longer just building a sports pavilion and that’s all it is, it’s actually looking at how

www.lilydalemitsubishi.com.au Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

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Bandaid bus for overflow

By Tanya Steele A new temporary school bus service has been established following several students being left stranded due to an overflow of passengers.

On Wednesday February 1, a group of around 15 students were left at the Yarra Glen bus shelter due to too many passengers on the Z24 service.

Dixon’s Creek parent Megan’s two children were not able to get on the bus, one of whom was starting year seven that day.

“My daughter had been excited to catch the bus to school for years and then it rocked up and the driver said ‘No, you can’t get on’,” she said.

The students left at the bus stop had to call parents to make other arrangements to get to school as the service was unable to cater for them.

Megan attempted to call both her school and the bus company but they were unable to offer assistance. She then notified her State Liberal Member for Eildon, Cindy McLeish, and started an online petition.

Ms McLeish took the matter to the State Government and by February 3 the temporary overflow service was provided.

“This is a small win for the Yarra Ranges community however, we are still in need of a permanent solution to ensure students can get to school safely, without any issues,” she said.

When the issue arose, the bus company notified the Department of Planning and Transport (DTP) and a spokesperson said they were concerned to hear of the incident.

“We were extremely concerned to hear reports from the bus company on route Z24 that some children were unable to be picked up due to a lack of space on one of the school bus services,” the spokesperson said.

The McKenzie’s Z24 is a backup service that has been in place since 2012 and funded by the

An additional bus has been added to the Mckenzie Z24 service to cater for overflow and crowding issues for students accessing schools in the Lilydale area.

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

The Z24 service has been overcrowded for some time.

Department of Planning and Transport. It runs from Healesville to Lilydale via Yarra Glen.

The service has an uncertain future despite regular services being unable to meet the requirements of the local community.

“Young year seven students on their first day of secondary school, kids with special needs and VCE students were all understandably upset and distressed at being left. They didn’t know what to do,” Ms McLeish said.

Secondary students from Dixons Creek, Yarra Glen and Coldstream commute to attend school and teachers at the schools have

vices in the area and added the extra bus whilst a longer term answer is looked into.

“An extra bus was put on to deal with the current capacity issue on the route and the Department is looking into the best longer term solution to prevent a similar situation arising in the future,” DPT spokesperson said.

“We addressed this as a matter of priority and apologise to the parents and children of those affected,” said the DTP spokesperson.

The temporary service has taken some of the pressure off for now and the DTP is organising an internal review.

dealt with the issue for a number of years.

Mount Lilydale Mercy College Deputy Principal John Rodgers said it’s a recurring issue.

“It’s been an issue for a number of years, but especially at the start of the school term,” he said.

The overflow bus is often crowded or unable to meet requirements, especially at the beginning of the year when year seven students are beginning high school.

After being alerted to the issue the DTP has begun reviewing the current school-hour ser-

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Dashcam footage from Cliff Riseborough as he approaches the Queens Road and Wandin East Road intersection. Picture: CLIFF RISEBOROUGH

The point where a driver who failed to stop is first visible.

Picture: CLIFF RISEBOROUGH

The driver shoots across the intersection barely in front of the slowly approaching Cliff Riseborough.

Picture: CLIFF RISEBOROUGH

Crash claims second life

By Callum Ludwig Kira Hennessy was making her way to work at Cherry Hill Orchard’s Wandin East site on Tuesday 17 February when tragedy struck.

At the intersection of Queens Road and Beenak Road Seville, she and Mooroolbark resident Leroy Collins collided. Ms Hennessy was unable to be revived at the scene by emergency services and Mr Collins died from his injuries on Sunday 12 February in hospital.

Calls have come thick and fast to bring serious changes to make the intersection safer, with the retired proprietor of the familyowned Cherry Hill Orchards Cliff Riseborough compiling a discussion paper for Yarra Ranges Council.

Mr Riseborough has seen the traffic conditions change during his 82 years living on Queens Road and said he was in Hastings when he got the call from his son on the day of the incident.

“He said it was not a good day, and of course told me the news which is never good to receive. I didn’t have a lot of direct contact with her but everyone in the organisation of nearly 40 people was shaken up,” he said.

“Some 26 people from our business went to her funeral in Corowa, and it was a hard day, but it would be nice to think that in this unfortunate situation that it at least may be a catalyst for the powers to be from Federal and State Governments to local Council to look at this and other intersections.”

In a tribute post for Ms Hennessy, the Cherry Hill team described her as a rising star and the ‘friendly face and bubbly voice of our phone calls, emails and social messages for Cherry Hill’.

Mr Collins’ death has also left behind devastated family and friends, including his mother Sandy who was financially dependent on her son. A GoFundMe has been started to assist her: www.gofund.me/66135ac4 As part of his report, Mr Riseborough want-

Tributes left at the intersection of Queens Road and Beenak Road, Seville. 320070

The intersection of Queens Road and Beenak Road, Seville. 320070 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS ed to showcase the number of dangerous intersections in the area and compiled dashcam footage of himself slowly approaching the intersection of Queens Road and Wandin East Road. Mr Riseborough is turning right from Queens Road onto Wandin East Road and has almost slowed to a stop, despite being on the through road, when a car shoots out just ahead of him without stopping at the stop sign.

Mr Riseborough had every right to be travelling at 80km per hour with the expectation the other car would stop and said if he wasn’t going steady into that intersection, he would have been t-boned, by someone that had no idea about stopping at the intersection.

“I don’t believe those intersections are fit for purpose, because they’re giving drivers a false sense of security as they can legally go 80km/h on Queens Road as the through road when people on the intersecting roads are not adhering or seeing the current signage,” he said.

“I really hoped to see some temporary measures put up such as some temporary signs just to tell people to watch out or be more careful.

The full solution won’t and shouldn’t take five minutes, but as of now, the recipe for disaster has not changed.”

As per Mr Riseborough’s paper, the signage at the intersection consists of: Queens Road, travelling East: Has a clearly visible crossroad sign, but no stop signage.

Visibility to the left is good, but to the right is almost entirely obscured by a tree.

Queens Road, travelling West: Crossroad sign is partially obscured by a tree, 80km/h signposts shortly prior to the intersection. Visibility to both the left and right is obscured by fences and trees, this is the direction Ms Henessy was travelling.

Beenak Road, travelling South: Bend in the road shortly prior to the intersection, with one crossroad sign. There are no rumble strips, and

only one stop sign.

Beenak Road, travelling North: One stop sign, no rumble strips and poor visibility both left and right.

Acting Director of Built Environment and Infrastructure at Yarra Ranges Council Kim O’Connor said following the tragic January crash, they have completed a safety assessment at the high-risk cross-intersection.

“We have identified additional safety improvements which include installation of advanced warning signs, rumble strips and line marking treatments to prompt drivers to slow down and make them aware of the prevailing road conditions,” he said.

“The works are anticipated to be completed within the next six to eight weeks. We’re also making similar improvements at other cross intersections along Beenak Road, which will help community members and visitors to make their way through the area safely.”

Yarra Ranges Council will also be applying for blackspot funding for intersection treatment projects at both intersections, and other high risk areas across Yarra Ranges.

“Wherever you are, in Yarra Ranges or beyond, we urge all drivers to be mindful of conditions and other road users, which will help everyone get home safely,” said Mr O’Connor.

Mr Riseborough’s footage can be viewed in full here: https://youtu.be/gCfOR75IIzs

Coordinated response required to reduce road trauma

By Callum Ludwig After a man died in a Wandin North crash on Sunday 12 February, adding to further fatalities on local roads, concerns continue to be raised regarding road safety.

Wandin Fire Brigade members alone have attended two incidents that have caused fatalities this year and were dismayed at the lack of action, with 25 incidents in their records at the notorious Wellington Road and Clegg Road intersection since 2020 alone.

Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence said we keep asking what will it take to fix these known dangerous roads and intersections.

“Tragically, in the past month, three people have lost their lives on Yarra Valley roads.

How many more deaths before the government takes seriously the need to upgrade the many known dangerous roads through the Yarra Valley?” she said.

Ms Vallence previously called on the government to upgrade the Wellington and Clegg Roads intersection back in 2021 and further raises multiple road issues in Parliament or through official communications with the Roads Minister.

“I have repeatedly called on the government to upgrade Maroondah Highway Coldstream and Warburton Highway Seville mailcommunity.com.au

A serious collision at the same Wellington Road and Clegg Road intersection in 2021.

Picture: ON FILE

The intersection of Wellington Road and Clegg Road, Wandin North. 320070 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

East, where there has been a fatality, but still there is no action. Last week I called on the government to help fix Queens Road, Wandin East where a few weeks ago a Hawthorn woman and a Mooroolbark man tragically lost their lives,” she said.

The Department of Transport and Planning (DOTP) holds the jurisdiction for the Warburton Highway and Clegg Road.

“Our thoughts are with those affected by the recent crash at the intersection of Wellington and Clegg roads. We work closely with Victoria Police to understand the cir-

cumstances around each incident,” a DOTP spokesperson said.

While, Beenak Road, Queens Road and Wellington Road are the responsibility of Yarra Ranges Council.

“We’ve previously installed rumble strips and advanced warning signs at the intersection of Clegg Road and Wellington Road, and we will work with the Department of Transport on further treatments for this intersection,” the Acting Director of Built Environment and Infrastructure at Yarra Ranges Council Kim O’Connor said. There are multiple signs on Wellington and Clegg Road warning motorists

of the upcoming intersection.

“Local emergency services workers from CFA and Police have suggested a sensible short-term measure would be to install flashing lights to help alert drivers ahead of these poor visibility intersections or make upgrades such as roundabouts,” said Ms Vallence.

“Ultimately, the local emergency services first responders as well as residents and local farming businesses should be consulted without delay by Council and the State Government so that their insights and experience driving these roads can be included in any upgrades.”

Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

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NEWS

15 years on from apology

By Tanya Steele As Monday 13 February marked the 15 year anniversary since the National Apology by Kevin Rudd to Australia’s Indigenous peoples, Yarra Ranges Council reflected on the shire being one of the first local governments to offer an apology to the Stolen Generations in 1997.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child expressed pride on behalf of the shire about the early milestone and also acknowledged the work ahead for reconciliation.

“Sorry Day is an important day in the national calendar – an incredibly significant marker, of the Federal Government apologising for the injustices inflicted on Aboriginal people during Australia’s colonial history,” he said.

“I’m proud that we at Yarra Ranges were one of the first government bodies to offer an apology to the Stolen Generations in 1997.

“We worked with our community at the time to word the official apology, with the understanding that past injustices need to be acknowledged if we are going to work towards Reconciliation.”

The original apology provided by the council was worded as follows: Yarra Ranges Council recognises the past injustices and treatment of Aboriginal Peoples.

If we are to proceed in an openhearted and responsible way to address the issues which will come before us in the future we first need to acknowledge the past. Council recognises the need to confront the policies and practices which caused the forced removal and separation of Aboriginal children from their parents and families, the effects of which continue today.

Accordingly, we wish to express our deep sorrow and sincerely apologise for the pain, the grief and the suffering experienced by Aboriginal peoples as a result of past laws, gov-

Yarra Ranges Council was one of the first local governments to offer an apology to the Stolen Generations in 1997. ernment policy and actions.

The national apology from Mr Rudd came a decade after National Sorry Day began on 26 May 1998 during Reconciliation Week.

Andrew Peters, son of late Healesville elder Aunty Dot Peters said Sorry Day is about acknowledgement and development.

“Recognition of Sorry Day for me isn’t about finding someone to blame for the many past injustices, but about honestly acknowledging

that they happened, developing an understanding of why they happened, and making changes to our national identity and education to ensure they don’t happen again,” he said.

“It’s the oldest living culture in the world, and it should be celebrated as a source of immense national pride.”

Dr Peters said reconciliation is a healing process and awareness on these anniversaries is an opportunity for discussion and education

Picture: ON FILE

amongst the community.

“The work of local Aboriginal people over the years has created a great opportunity for us to really educate about reconciliation and find the enormous value of Aboriginal culture and history to us all – we’re very lucky to have such a strong connection in the Yarra Ranges through the work of so many wonderful Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people, and have a unique opportunity to be a leader in the reconciliation space,” he said.

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NEWS

Holy Fools without wheels

By Mikayla van Loon Nearly a year to the day after the original call out for help, the Holy Fools ‘Bill Poole’ van has died leaving the not for profit relatively stranded in its normal services.

CEO Neal Taylor spoke to Star Mail in January last year about the potential need to replace this essential piece of equipment, hoping it would survive another 12 months.

But sadly on Friday 10 February the van developed a knocking sound in the engine and “to keep driving, it would more than likely seize the engine up totally”.

Currently using his wife’s car, Mr Taylor said as of next week he’s not sure what he will be doing if without transport.

“It means the daily operations are back down to pretty much just in the office, if I can get here and what we can do, so it desperately needs something as quickly as well.

“The van is the focal point and you forget how much of a focus the van is in all of our activities. Running me around, it’s also involved in all the picking up and dropping off, transporting people and transporting stuff around the place. You forget how important it is until it’s gone.”

From a fundraising campaign last year, Mr Taylor said Holy Fools was able to raise $7,500 towards the $50,000 purchase and fitout price of a new van.

“We’ve set up a new campaign and said the van has died now so we need a new one basically. We’re hoping people respond to that one,” he said.

Not only would the funds go towards purchasing the van but would ensure similar

The well known Holy Fools van displaying an image of ‘hope’ has been taken off the road leaving Picture: ON FILE CEO Neal Taylor stranded. 218423 ‘hope’ messaging could be displayed on the side of the van, as well as the name ‘Bill Poole’.

Eight years ago, Mr Taylor said a donor who wanted to remain anonymous helped fund the van nearly entirely, something he was extremely grateful for but doesn’t expect to happen again.

“I just acknowledge that for eight years, that van has really made a huge difference in the

community and our work.”

As a charity supporting people who are homeless in the Lilydale and surrounding areas, providing bedding, support and community lunches known as Street Angels on a Wednesday, those outreach services will have to be minimised without the ability to get around the region.

Mr Taylor said if the funds cannot be raised

to purchase a van outright, he has considered the option of leasing a van but with that comes its own challenges.

Despite gaining some support from the community on social media with likes and comments, Mr Taylor said that has not transferred over to donating.

“I understand that everyone’s doing it tough at the moment and I’m not criticising and I want people to understand that we recognise people are struggling,” he said.

“So we are hoping maybe some of the larger businesses might be able to step up and give us a hand.”

Receiving a helping hand on Wednesday 15 February to collect chairs and other items to set up the weekly Street Angels lunch at Melba Park, Mr Taylor said meant people experiencing homelessness were still able to connect and enjoy donated pizzas from Dominos.

“We had three homeless guys, who were camped out nearby, come over and have food and have lunch with us.

“So it’s important that this is on and that we’re still connecting with people who are homeless and rough sleeping.”

Looking ahead, Mr Taylor said despite not having a van, he wants to make sure Street Angels continues.

“We’re going to try and keep going with Street Angels but it’s going to depend on a lot of factors and we’ll have to see what happens and whether we have our own gear or whether we have to ask others to help out.

“But I really want to keep street angels going. There are so many people who rely on it.”

Donations can be made via www.mycause. com.au/page/304600/help-we-need-a-newvan

Treasuring our Trees ‘branches’ out with railway timber Treasuring Our Trees has received a donation of redgum logs from the Cranbourne Line Upgrade set to be repurposed.

As part of its commitment to sustainability, The Level Crossing Road Project (LXRP) looked for a way to repurpose trees that could not be retained.

LXRP has partnered with Treasuring Our Trees, a community organisation founded in 2021 with the aim of rescuing timber for re-use in Victorian schools and community projects and helping children learn how to value and recycle resources.

The timber will be transformed into indoor and outdoor furniture for 20 Melbourne primary schools and kindergartens, as well as community projects taking part in the Treasuring Our Trees program.

Founder David Ferrier said he was determined to salvage timber for use by schools and artists.

His first mission for Treasuring Our Trees was to collect fallen trees in communities afflicted by the severe storms of June 2021, which struck the Dandenong and Yarra ranges.

The redgum load marks his first venture with LXRP, which is committed to re-using materials as it works to remove 110 of Victoria’s most dangerous and congested level crossings by 2030.

“The Level Crossing Removal Project is focusing on sustainability, and that’s why we decided to partner with the project,” Mr Ferrier said.

“We’re impressed by the LXRP team’s foresight to salvage these logs for a greater purpose.

“This wood can be used for cabinets, tables, outdoor furniture, yarning circles and kitchen gardens.”

Mr Ferrier said Treasuring Our Trees has agreements with 20 primary schools and kindergartens in outer-east Melbourne and has recently begun presenting to secondary schools to raise awareness about sustainability.

“We also have more than 20 community projects, and we are absolutely determined to showcase the amazing work of local artists by providing them with natural resources to work with,” he said. mailcommunity.com.au

Construction timber will be transformed into indoor and outdoor furniture. 312843 Mr Ferrier said that Treasuring Our Trees has created a database to record donations including species, length, diameter, location of the donated materials and intended project.

Every log will eventually be tracked on the Treasuring Our Trees website so that donors could find out how and where the timber was used.

“Even if it’s 5000 logs at once, they are recorded,” he said.

“As they are pulled off the stack they are

measured by length and width.

We want to be able to share the story of what happens to them next, so you might have 40 or 50 small pieces that are allocated a millimetre measurement and eventually made into art display cabinets or tables.

“It is important that we can suggest what we can do for schools.”

Treasuring Our Trees recently opened a showroom and educational hub in Lilydale.

The inaugural exhibition, inspired by LXRP’s donation and trees rescued from the

Picture: SHELBY BROOKS storms, features work by Melbourne artists including Anton McMurray and Emma Jennings, whose portrait of Kalorama CFA captain Bill Robinson is painted on fallen blackwood.

Treasuring Our Trees has another exhibition planned for early March 2023.

Across the level crossing removal project, more than 2.54 million trees, plants and shrubs have been planted.

To find out more about the Cranbourne Line Upgrade, visit levelcrossings.vic.gov.au Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

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MAIL 9

NEWS

Testing brought forward

By Mikayla van Loon Changes to NAPLAN come into effect this March, as students prepare to sit the national proficiency test two months earlier than normal in an attempt to bring the availability of results forward.

Victoria Road Primary School principal Lisa Branch said while the lead up to this year’s NAPLAN seems rushed given the earlier date, it will become normal after this year.

“The hope is that w e will get the results of NAPLAN earlier than we normally do. So that way there might be some benefit in the assessment for schools because usually it’s not particularly beneficial for schools,” she said.

“We get those results so late it doesn’t help us to really determine anything much about our students.” The way testing is completed will also change, with much of the assessment now to be done online, something Ms Branch said may create challenges for students.

“Almost all of it’s online, the year three writing one will still be a paper test,” she said.

“Where it’s tricky, for example, with numeracy, we have really high results for numeracy in our school but the way that we teach children numeracy and the way we work through numeracy doesn’t line up with the way NAPLAN functions at all.”

Ms Branch said when teaching numeracy, teachers provide students many different strategies to work through a problem to apply the best one.

“They would have to make an assessment on which types of strategies they will use, they will be applying critical thinking, problem solving, they’re working collaboratively with teams to solve problems.

“When you then put them in front of a test and say, ‘this is time limited and it’s just going to keep pushing through the test’ they don’t test particularly well in that sense, because that’s not how we teach numeracy.

“So it’s always a bit disappointing to see that the test doesn’t really reflect best practice in terms of teaching and with it being online, possibly even more so.”

Not only does the new online format potentially bring with it technical and mechanical challenges, Ms Branch said the age-old concerns about the benefits of NAPLAN for schools and students is still an issue. “You want an assessment to assess what it is children know, and the fact we teach it very differently to how NAPLAN is tested means we don’t really see what our children know in NAPLAN. “We have very robust and detailed assessment schedules and methods and tools and the way that we analyse data from those is very specific. We get a lot of information from those things that we don’t really get much information at all from NAPLAN.” Another concern Ms Branch has with the way NAPLAN is reported publicly is that it is rather confusing and “basically allows them to stack school against school”.

“It’s actually a very broad brushstroke of some small snapshot of information and so people shopping around for schools and basing their choices on the small bit of information they’ve got out of NAPLAN is really unhelpful.

“What we’d want would be for families to be choosing a school that’s a good fit for their family and their values and how that lines up with the school’s values.”

Logistically preparing for NAPLAN to start on 15 March, Ms Branch said it’s always a lot of work in setting up rooms and computers ready for the assessments. Not teaching to the test means students will go about their normal curriculum, with teachers only guiding them through how the test will be formatted and how to ensure they complete it properly.

NAPLAN will run from 15 to 27 March, giving schools a nine day window to complete the assessments across writing, reading, conventions of language and numeracy.

Victoria Road Primary School is prepping for the earlier start date of NAPLAN in March. 286865 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

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School students across Victoria made their return to school following summer holidays, while 2021’s preps got their first taste of primary school life. Wurundjeri Elder Aunty Joy Murphy conducted a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony for Badger Creek Primary School students and staff.

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A worthy brand

By Jed Lanyon

At the level crossing

Union Road, Surrey Hills

Until early May

At the level crossing

It’s February, but Santa Claus’ gifts keep on coming for several charity organisations who benefited from a partnership between Saint Nick and Seville’s Branded Burger Bar. The burger bar came to the rescue when they partnered with Santa, who had seen his role replaced at Chirnside Park Shopping

Centre in the lead up to Christmas. Many locals far and wide were able to keep up their Christmas tradition in getting a family photo with ‘The Real Santa’ who they had grown to love.

The unlikely tandem tallied upwards of $30,000 from their family Christmas photos and then selected four charities to each receive

$8400 to help make the lives of children better.

The four recipients of the funds included: Backpacks 4 Vic Kids, A Better Life For Foster Kids, HeartKids and Chum Creek’s Good Life Farm. The organisations shared how the funds had already been put to good use.

Backpacks 4 Vic Kids CEO and founder Sally Beard told Star Mail the donation came as a “delightful surprise”.

“We’re very, very grateful on behalf of the children, whose lives that it will impact,” she said. “We have absolutely put that money to good use.”

Ms Beard shared that the $8400 donation from Branded is aiding 112 children in need with care packs filled with toiletries, spare changes of clothes, a toy and more.

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NEWS

Waste to energy facility

By Mikayla van Loon

The Lilydale sewage treatment plant is the proposed site of a waste to energy facility.

The Yarra Valley Water operational facility is located on Nelson Road near the Yarra Valley Trail.

Pictures: MIKAYLA VAN LOON The EPA has confirmed it is assessing a development licence submitted by YVW and is inviting community feedback regarding the project until 8 March.

Mr McCafferty said this is the next stage in the process and brings YVW one step closer to approval. From a community survey YVW conducted throughout 2022, about 70 per cent of

the people were neutral, 20 per cent positive and about 10 per cent were negative.

“Like most big infrastructure projects people are concerned about disruption but the main thing we’re getting is [about] the visual design, what’s it going to look like.

“We’ve had a lot of requests for trees to enhance the visual impact in the local environment, there’s a lot of good feedback coming through about looking after the native flora and fauna, which we’re absolutely committed to, and you get some concerns about odour.

“That’s part of why the EPA needs to do their process, what conditions they put on, the plan around odour control and all of those sorts of things.”

Overall, Mr McCafferty said the local community has been rather enthusiastic about the recycling practices set to take place.

Should YVW receive approval from the EPA and the planning minister, it is expected construction of the facility will get underway later this year, with it to be operational by the end of 2024.

Residents can provide feedback to the EPA via www.engage.vic.gov.au/yarra-valley-water-corporation

12590725-JW08-23

Yarra Valley Water (YVW) has submitted a proposal to the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) for the establishment of a waste to energy facility in Lilydale.

The plan would see organic and food waste unable to be repurposed converted into a biogas which can then power generators and electrical turbines at the already existing water treatment plant on Nelson Road.

Managing director Pat McCafferty said the electricity generated by the anaerobic digestion system would run the YVW site, with excess power being returned to the grid as renewable energy.

With a target of getting to net zero emissions by 2025, Mr McCafferty said YVW is working toward the best sustainable practices to benefit both the organisation and the broader community.

“It’s to do with the energy footprint of the sewage treatment plant. It’s one of our larger energy consuming facilities or assets and we’ve already got a food waste energy plant out in the north, there’s a lot of organic waste going through that,” he said.

“So it’s a combination of the fact that there isn’t a facility like this in the east and we know there’s a hell of a lot of organic waste going to landfill across Melbourne.”

Establishing the first waste to energy plant in Wollert, Mr McCafferty said it is already producing 23 per cent of Yarra Valley Water’s entire energy needs, with the Lilydale facility expected to provide another 25 per cent.

“We’ve got a whole bunch of different solar arrays and installations across our service area, a combination of all of those is how we’re getting down to zero,” he said.

“It’s also about the circular economy. So how do we take waste that was going to generate greenhouse gases in the environment and repurpose it.”

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MAIL 11

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Storyboarding his ideas helped bring each location to life.

Noyes used his skills in photography to help visualise each shot before shooting.

From humble beginnings growing up in Mooroolbark to international recognition for his first short film, AARON LEE NOYES is making waves as an up and coming talent in photography and film.

Noyes named Aussie best

By Mikayla van Loon As director and writer of the film ‘Mr.Gypsie’, Noyes just took home best Australian director at the London Director Awards on 9 February.

“Making this film, I was pretty naive. I didn’t write it or make it thinking about festivals whatsoever,” he said.

“I did this for me and to make something beautiful and to show the world that I can do it and get myself on the right path.

“To get this kind of acknowledgment so early is obviously an immensely proud feeling.

I’m proud of myself, I’m proud of the crew, I’m proud of the actors. It was a huge amount of work…I’m still coming back down to earth a little bit about it.”

Set in the northern suburbs of Melbourne and in rural Victoria, the film follows “a man [who] is on a bit of a vengeful quest” after his son was abused and eventually took his own life.

“He blames the abuser for the trauma his son incurred and he’s now on this crusade of hunting down child abusers and killing them,” Noyes said.

“We try to show a human element to his character. We don’t see any violence in our film…[and] the audience is taken through effectively the fallout of him taking the law into his own hands.”

With the lead role played by actor and Noyes’ father in law, Sal Galofaro, Noyes said “ I couldn’t have done it without him” and he “learned quite a lot from his experience in character development but storytelling in general”.

Coming from a photography background Noyes said helped immensely in directing ‘Mr. Gypsie’, storyboarding the main scenes and visualising the features of each shot.

“I’m really thankful that I do photography as a profession because I had no industry knowledge of filmmaking.

“The photography side of things meant I knew what I wanted in my head. I knew where I wanted to place the camera, where I wanted the light and where I wanted the actor to stand in a specific scene.”

Having made the transition from the corporate world to full time editorial and fashion photographer last May, Noyes had always viewed the digital mediums as a passion project.

But taking a leap of faith, the teenage dream of pursuing photography as a career came true at 34-years-old.

“I definitely romanticised the idea of it in high school, where I thought I could travel the world and take pictures for a living, that mindset I had early on.

“I had no idea how to action it at all but I felt drawn towards the craft. It has probably been my happy place, it’s probably the best way to describe it.”

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Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

Noyes and his father in law Sal Galofaro took on the project as family and professionals as their first time working together.

Noyes used the environment he had around him living between Bimbadeen Primary School and Mooroolbark College, his fascination with the artform growing as he got older.

“In those days, I can still remember heading down to the shops and getting the film developed and being pretty excited about all that.

“I was just taking photos of anything at that stage, mum or dad or something in the garden, or a pet dog. Originally, I was really quite captivated with landscapes and nature and deep, vast, epic scenes, that’s what I really aspired to take pictures of at the time.”

Using the Yarra Valley as his talent early on in his photography exploration, Noyes said those landscapes are still somewhere in his collection and the scenery is still vivid in his mind.

“I liked that element of urban decay [in Mooroolbark] and going out towards Yering Station with all the old rail lines, you have those really early 1900s rail lines that are grown over now and decrepit and falling apart.

“I used to go out there a bit with friends and take photos when I was a teenager and I did like that mix of landscapes from the Yarra Valley point of view, but also the bit of historical detail in the foreground.”

Despite taking on portraiture photography now as a career, Noyes said throughout the filmmaking process he was able to delve back into capturing “big, epic scapes”.

Noyes will begin filming his second short film in March following the life of a man who develops dementia and relives moments in his life.

“We’re going down the highly cinematic route of a memory loop, so a typical dementia patient would start to have memory loops where they relive the same things every day.”

As ‘Mr.Gypsie’ is still doing the rounds at multiple film festivals, it can’t be accessed yet but the trailer can be viewed here, www.aaronleenoyes.com/gypsiefilms

Aaron Lee Noyes received best Australian director at the London Director Awards for his film Mr.Gypsie.

Picture: SUPPLIED mailcommunity.com.au

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Project lights up Croydon

By Mikayla van Loon Bringing light and art to Croydon’s main street is the objective of a new project being explored

by Maroondah City Council, with expressions of interest open for artists to apply.

The project aims to engage three artists as a commissioned project to bring four light installations to alleyways in the main thoroughfares of Croydon.

As a project supported by Victoria Police, Maroondah councillor Tasa Demante said it has been designed to improve the perception of safety in these areas.

“The aim of the project is to commission opportunities and create opportunities for local artists to the area, just to provide a lighting installation just to help with improving the perception of the safety in laneways,” she said.

“It will obviously add some vibrancy and colour to the area as well and just give an opportunity to just light Croydon up and make it really beautiful.”

Having undertaken similar projects along Larissa Avenue where artist Ash Keating created a kaleidoscope lighting installation giving a rainbow effect, as well as the Croydon Connects Project to light up pedestrian access, Cr Demante said it has added to perceived safety.

“It definitely helped with safety. People feel a little bit more comfortable walking through the area, knowing there is a bit more light and it has resulted in some reduced crime and graffiti in the area,” she said.

Identifying four laneways that are used most frequently by people visiting Main Street to shop or access public transport, the idea is to brighten them up, something that has been well received by the Croydon Main Street Traders, Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place, Orange Door and Anglicare.

Maroondah Councillor Tasa Damante (front) and Croydon traders are excited about the proposed street art project. 319897 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS As a public art project, the hope is also that Reignite Croydon - Laneway Lights will become an attraction for visitors, diners and travellers, where people can stop and take photos.

While artists are invited to design the lighting project from their own experiences, Cr Demante said she would like to see connection to the local area.

“We’re hoping the artists bring their own influence to their art piece but obviously we’re hoping that we can work with the artists as well

to provide some relevance back to the area.

“So this could be through different landmarks or history of the area or drawing attention to nearby architectural features, anything that connects back to the community.”

With a professional development opportunity also available through the Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place, there is a pull towards the inclusion of First Nations culture and storytelling through art should this be decided on in the mentor, mentee partnership.

Although the expression of interest alert

has been spread nationwide, Cr Demante said she would love to see local artists getting involved in this project.

Information about the project can be found via the council’s website by going to www. maroondah.vic.gov.au/Explore/ArtsInMaroondah/Arts-things-to-see-and-do/PublicArt-in-Maroondah/Public-art-news-and-opportunities Expressions of interest are open until Thursday 23 February and can be submitted to publicart@maroondah.vic.gov.au

Will retirement living suit you?

Get a sneak peek of the lifestyle you could enjoy at our free Open Home event. Come along with family and friends and find out why many residents say they wish they made the move to an Aveo retirement community sooner.

Cherry Tree Grove 67-81 Maroondah Hwy, Croydon VIC 3136 Saturday, 25 February (10am – 12pm)

Take the First Step and RSVP: Scan the code, call (03) 9133 8788 or visit aveo.com.au/openhome

YOU’RE IN

VI

Open Home TE

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25

t

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Explore our community

Inspect our display home

Discover our social activities

Chat to our First Step team

BRUARY To ensure the health and wellbeing of residents and staff, we are conducting Open Home events in accordance with the required COVIDSafe plan. Aveo are requesting that all attendees to Aveo communities are vaccinated against COVID-19 to protect the residents and staff in our communities. RSVP is essential.

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Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

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OPEN DAYS

Students enjoy learning and growing at St Mary’s Primary School.

Picture: SUPPLIED

School tours for preps St Mary’s Primary School is excited to offer small tours for enrolment for prep 2024.

The tours will provide an opportunity for parents and guardians to explore the school’s facilities, meet the staff and ask any questions they may have.

St Mary’s is a welcoming co-educational

Catholic Primary School built with a community of people sharing a common belief in its motto, “Love Above All”.

They have high expectations of staff, students and parents and the school strives to provide equality, justice and consistency.

St Mary’s Primary School has been servic-

ing the educational needs of the Mt Evelyn community since 1980 and educates families from the Mt Evelyn, Silvan, Wandin, Seville and Woori Yallock areas.

The facilities are quite unique, set in a natural bush setting, providing students with the advantage of space, quiet and beautiful flora and fauna.

The school understands that choosing the right educator for your child is a big decision and it wants to make sure that you have all the information you need.

They look forward to welcoming you to St Mary’s Primary School and showing you why they are the best choice for your child’s education.

St. Patrick’s Primary School 2023 Open Days • Tuesday 21st March 9.00am - 11.00am • Wednesday 17th May 5.00pm - 6.00pm

40 Jones Street Lilydale

School Tours are also available by appointment

9735 4388 office@splilydale.catholic.edu.au www.splilydale.catholic.edu.au 12589375-AA08-23

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OPEN DAYS

Pandemic’s ripple effects The ripple effects of the pandemic continue to be felt by parents, carers and educators as children struggle with basic social skills like sharing and getting along with others.

The Triple P – Positive Parenting Program is now giving parents the support they need to bridge the gap left by Covid-19 and help their children thrive.

Triple P International Country Director, Carol Markie-Dadds, said the disruptions to children’s learning in the past few years continue to impact children’s social and emotional development, with parents needing practical support and strategies to help their child build self-regulation and social skills, including how to cope with emotions and show kindness and empathy.

“Research shows that when children develop the capacity to regulate their feelings and actions – stay calm under pressure - they are better able to cooperate with directions and get along with others,” Ms Markie-Dadds said.

“Our capacity to self-regulate is associated with lifelong outcomes including our physical and mental health, academic achievements, the quality of relationships we have with others, and our future employment and wealth,” she said.

“Children aren’t born with self-regulation and social skills, and not all children develop them at the same rate or age, or with the same level of success. The great news is that parents and carers can help children by modelling and teaching these skills, and giving their child opportunities to practise them at home, school and in the community.”

“Lead by example and show your child how to cope with emotions, as well as how to be kind and empathetic to others. If you praise your child when you see them replaying your

respectfully, or sharing a treat with a friend.

empathy by talking with your · Encourage child about how our behaviour impacts how others feel; and what they can do to make others feel good. For example, praise them when invite another child to play.

Tune in to your child’s emotional state and notice the early signs of ‘big emotions’ before they escalate; help your child to use their words to express how they’re feeling and the issue at hand, by listening closely and naming the emotion they might be feeling. For example, “that looks really hard, you may be feeling frustrated.”

Play turn-taking games together to help your child learn about sharing, winning, and losing graciously, being patient, and getting along with others.

Narrate your own emotions honestly; to show your children how you cope with life’s ups and downs (I’m going for a walk after my hard day; I’m feeling frustrated so I’m going to take some deep breaths). - Modelling how we regulate our emotions helps children understand how to appropriately express and cope with their own feelings.

“As your child gets older and puts these skills into practise, they’ll experience what we call an intrinsic reward – that warm inner glow, if you like – that comes from having shown things like kindness, empathy and generosity to others,” Ms Markie-Dadds said.

Delivery of the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program to parents and carers of children in Australia is supported by funding from the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care under the Parenting Education and Support Program.

Parents and carers can access free, easy-touse, online parenting support 24/7 at www. triplep-parenting.net.au

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Program to assist in unlocking Covid generation’s missing social skills. behaviours – you’re bound to see more of it.”

“Parents and carers may find it helpful to talk with a professional or access the free, online Triple P – Positive Parenting Program for more tools to support their child’s social and emotional development,” she said.

Picture: UNSPLASH

Triple P’s top tips for building children’s social skills Model and talk about the positive behaviours you’d like your child to use. You’ll help children learn by example by greeting others warmly, thanking others for their help, talking

·

MONDAY 27 MARCH 4.30PM - 7.00PM

Come and experience the opportunities available at Mount Lilydale Mercy College 12590822-FC08-23

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MAIL 15

NEWS

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Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

Large draught horses will be at work at Mont De Lancey.

Picture: ON FILE

Back to yesteryear Mont De Lancey Historic Homestead’s Draught Horse and YesterYear festival is coming up on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 February.

Organised by the Yarra Valley Machinery Preservation Society, the day is set to feature draught horses at work on the homestead, as well as stationary engines, chainsaw carving, blacksmiths, wood turners, vintage cars and motorcycles and food and market stalls.

Event Coordinator Lewis Carlton said there will be a variety of different exhibits to enjoy.

“There’ll be a cooper working, who makes old-style wooden barrels, the Hand Tool Preservation Society with various styles of old tools, a big display of miniature sewing machines and a ma with a display of vintage kerosene lanterns,” he said.

“We’ve got to keep this stuff in existence for the future generations to see, otherwise it will be harder to understand how it was built, how it was used rather than just looking at it on YouTube which is not the same.”

Sheep shearing also normally would have

been involved in the event but won’t be incorporated this year to prevent any spread of foot and mouth disease.

Mr Carlton said people will likely see how much easier parts of life are these days.

“It might also encourage people to look more deeply into it and hopefully encourage more to partake in collecting and restoring this stuff and keeping it in existence further and further,” he said.

“We have numerous members who’ve seen this old stuff and become enthused about it, then join the engine club and been around the club for years and years.”

A large amount of the machinery that will be on display will be from the Wandin area as well, including the very first Massey Ferguson tractor to land on Australian soil.

The event is open from 10am to 4.30pm, tickets are $15 for adults and free for kids under 15.

Tickets can be bought at the gate with cash or EFTPOS available or they can be pre-booked at www.montdelancey.org.au.

Get a close look at machinery from a bygone era.

Picture: SUPPLIED

By Callum Ludwig

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CHIRNSIDE PARK Meadowgate Milk Bar 3 Meadowgate Drive CHIRNSIDE PARK Coles Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway CHIRNSIDE PARK Woolworths Supermarket 239-241 Maroondah Highway CHIRNSIDE PARK 7 - Eleven 242 Maroondah Highway CROYDON NORTH Croydon Hills Milk Bar 158 Nangathan Way CROYDON NORTH Eastfield Milk Bar 11 The Mall KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Churinga SC, Russo Place KILSYTH Kilsyth News & Lotto 520 - 528 Mt Dandenong Road KILSYTH Kilsyth Laundrette87 Colchester Road KILSYTH Woolworths Supermarket Canterbury Road Kilsyth KILSYTH TSG Tobacco Churinga Shopping Centre Mt Dandenong Road LILYDALE Lilydale Marketplace SC 33-45 Hutchinson Street LILYDALE Lilydale Village SC 51-59 Anderson Street LILYDALE Coles Supermarket Lilydale Village Castella Street & Maroondah Highway LILYDALE Lilydale Community Centre 7 Hardy Street LILYDALE Eastern Laundries. 2/4 Williams Street East LILYDALE Lilydale Lakeside Conference and Events Centre 1 Jarlo Drive LILYDALE United Petrol Service Station 473 Maroondah Highway LILYDALE Caltex Lilydale 346 Main Street LILYDALE Caltex Woolworths 31 Hutchinson Street LILYDALE BP Service Station 87 Warburton Highway LILYDALE Shell Service Station 469 Maroondah Highway LILYDALE 7 - Eleven Lilydale Cnr Maroondah Highway & Cave Hill Road LILYDALE Coles Express 469 Maroondah Highway LILYDALE Hutch & Co Cafe 251 Main Street LILYDALE Round Bird Can’t Fly 170 Main Street LILYDALE The Lilydale General 110 Beresford Road LILYDALE Yarra Valley Smokery 96 Main Street LILYDALE Bee Seen Cafe 178 Main Street LILYDALE Blue Turtle Cafe 222 Main Street LILYDALE Gracious Grace Castella Street LILYDALE Melba Coffee House 33-45 Hutchinson Street LILYDALE Lilydale Munchies 7/75 Cave Hill Road LILYDALE The Mustard Tree Cafe 3/28 John Street LILYDALE Freda’s Cafe 2 Clarke Street LILYDALE Ray White Real Estate 164 Main Street LILYDALE Stockdale & Leggo Real Estate 281 Main Street LILYDALE Professionals Real Estate 111-113 Main Street LILYDALE Grubs Up 1 Industrial Park Drive LILYDALE Olinda Creek Hotel Maroondah Hwy LILYDALE Crown Hotel Maroondah Hwy LILYDALE Yarra Ranges Council 61 - 65 Anderson Street MONTROSE Montrose Authorised Newsagency 912 Mt Dandenong Road MONTROSE Bell Real Estate 896 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road MONTROSE IGA Supermarket 916 Mt Dandenong Road MOUNT EVELYN Fast Fuel 1 Hereford Road MOUNT EVELYN IGA Supermarket 38- 40 York Road MOUNT EVELYN Post Office 12 Station Street MOUNT EVELYN Authorised Newsagency 1A Wray Crescent MOUNT EVELYN Red Robin Milk Bar 35 Hereford Road MOUNT EVELYN Library 50 Wray Cresent MOUNT EVELYN Milkbar 28 Birmingham Road MOUNT EVELYN York on Lilydale 138 York Road MOOROOLBARK Coles Supermarket 15 Brice Avenue MOOROOLBARK Corner Milk Bar 38 Bellara Dive MOOROOLBARK Fang & Yaoxin Mini Mart 108 Hayrick Lane MOOROOLBARK BP Mooroolbark 103 Cardigan Road MOOROOLBARK Coles Express 2 Cambridge Road MOOROOLBARK Mooroolbark Coin Laundrette28 Manchester Road MOOROOLBARK Professionals Real Estate Brice Avenue MOOROOLBARK L J Hooker Brice Avenue MOOROOLBARK Fletchers Real Estate 1/14 Manchester Road MOOROOLBARK 7-Eleven Manchester Road

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NEWS

David and goliath battle

By Tyler Wright Two electric vehicle owners have taken the State Government to the High Court in an attempt to scrap a controversial electric vehicle tax introduced in 2021.

Christopher Vanderstock and Kathleen Davies’ case appeared in court from Wednesday 14 January to Thursday 16 February, the plaintiffs arguing with support from the Federal government that section 7(1) in the Zero and Low Emission Vehicle Distance-based Charge Act is invalid.

The levy costs electric vehicle owners between 2.1 cents and 2.6 cents for every kilometre they drive in and outside the state.

The plaintiffs argued the legislation imposes a duty of excise within the meaning of section 90 of the constitution, which lies beyond the power of the Victorian Parliament.

“That case is founded on the propositions that the charge is a tax on the “consumption” goods (namely, ZLEVs), and that such a tax is a duty of excise,” the plaintiff’s submission read.

The Victorian government will argue the levy is not a tax on goods, but a tax on the activity of driving a zero or low emission vehicle (ZLEV) on a “specified road” as defined in section three of the act.

Although the defendant believes even if the ZLEV charge is a tax on goods, it is not a tax on the production, manufacture, sale or distribution of goods, but rather a tax on the use or consumption of goods.

All other states and territories will support the Victorian government in the case.

David Hertzberg, Senior Associate at Equity Generation Lawyers, representing the drivers at the High Court, said the case will have ramifications “for the division of power between the Commonwealth and the States”.

“The Commonwealth, which is currently designing a national electric vehicle strategy, has intervened in support of our clients. All other States and Territories have intervened against us,” Mr Hertzberg said.

“But, for our clients, this case is about challenging a tax that will discourage everyday Victorians from switching to lower emissions vehicles.

“This tax is an obstacle to cutting emissions and improving air quality, and today we will argue before the High Court that it is unconstitutional.”

Belgrave South resident and the owner of a 2014 Nissan Leaf, Tony Forster, said he pays on the low side of $1,000 for his vehicle each year.

Dandenong Ranges resident Tony Forster, who owns a 2014 Nissan Leaf (pictured) and a (hybrid?) subaru, said it is a pity electric vehicle owners have to fork out a road user tax as well as registration fees.

Picture: SUPPLIED “I’m paying two lots of registration fees... and I’m running at a loss because I’m doing it and I’m doing it because I think it’s important to protect the environment and I couldn’t get what I wanted in one car,” Mr Forster said.

“It seems a pity to be having people giving their own money to protect the environment and then paying a tax to the government on top of that.”

Australian Electric Vehicle Association (AEVA) president Chris Smith said electric vehicle owners do not have a problem with paying to use the roads, but the levy introduced by the state government is “not the fairest” method to tax EV users.

“It certainly wasn’t at a time when the rest of the country was ready to get on board with a more universal road user charge scheme, which ultimately should be administered by

the federal government,” Mr Smith said.

“The Victorian government did so saying ‘electric vehicles don’t pay fuel excise, fuel excise is collected for the purpose of maintaining roads. Therefore, EVs aren’t paying to maintain roads, so we’re going to add this.

“That’s interesting, because the Victorian government doesn’t collect fuel excise, the Federal government does. The Federal Government then redistributes it to the states, including Victoria. so the question is, ‘are they trying to address a shortfall in a tax that they don’t actually collect? and if so, is that really fair?’”

If the Federal Government and plaintiffs win the case, Mr Smith said there is an opportunity to create a fairer and more robust system by allowing the Federal Government to

impose the road user charge.

“The AEVA has argued that a universal road user charge for all vehicles electric, petrol, or steam, should be subject to a road user charge multiplied by the mass of the vehicle,” he said.

“That is proportional to the damage that they do to the roads, but also it motivates people to buy smaller, lighter cars, because big cars are an absolute scourge, even big EVs.” If the Victorian government wins the case, Mr Smith said every other state and territory will be emboldened to create their own road user charge schemes with potentially different rates, different administrations, different restrictions and limitations.

“You’re going to have eight different systems out there which none of which may well really achieve the end goal, which is appropriately costing roads.”

Volunteer garden guides needed to invest in backyards

By Tanya Steele The Yarra Ranges is seeking volunteer garden guides for The Yarra Ranges Gardens for Wildlife (YRG4W), which is a free program available to communities in the Yarra Ranges Shire.

Volunteer garden guides visit people’s homes to give a free assessment and provide tips and tricks to encourage local fauna into their gardens.

The program aims to increase general knowledge and understanding for people in their gardens. It has a small dedicated group of volunteers but is seeking to introduce and train more guides.

Hannah Grant, who is the biodiversity rehabilitation officer running the project, invites the public to sign up as guides, even if they have no previous experience.

“Becoming a guide really helps them to advance their flora and fauna knowledge.

They get to meet like minded people in the community and are supported by the council as well,” Ms Grant said.

The volunteer program is quite flexible, so anyone can train as a guide and contribute in a manner that suits their needs.

The volunteer guides are trained to give people ideas on how to make small improvements to their garden spaces.

“Our role is not to go out and tell people how to have their gardens. It’s just to give them ideas on how they could make their mailcommunity.com.au

The program aims to help residents encourage native wildlife into their yards. gardens more wildlife friendly,” she said.

The volunteers go on a tour of the person’s garden and then provide a report to the resident afterwards, with ideas and links to programs that can help their space.

Some properties in the Yarra Ranges are much bigger than your average garden, but even small modifications can make a difference to transport corridors of

the local wildlife.

“We have lots of large areas of bush and if we can create these small patches in our backyard, then we can help some species move through the landscape because they’ve got the stepping stones.”

This program provides free opportunities for the general public to become involved in small changes in their own backyard.

Using tips and tricks from the Garden Guides, residents can turn patches of their yards into havens for wildlife.

Pictures: ON FILE Information sessions on how to get involved as a guide will be held online on Tuesday 21 February from 7pm to 7.30pm. Yarra Ranges Residents can register for this session online through the council website.

If you miss the session, those interested can still get in touch with the biodiversity team through gardensforwildlife@yarraranges.vic.gov.a Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

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MAIL 17

COMMUNITY DIARY can come to know how our brothers and sisters of other countries, languages and cultures understand Biblical passages in their context.

We can hear their concerns and needs and can feel ourselves in solidarity with them as we pray with and for them. In this way, it is possible to enrich our Christian faith as it grows deeper and broader in an international, ecumenical expression. This year the focus country is Taiwan.

COMMUNITY DIARY WHAT’S ON AROUND THE VALLEY

Official opening of community radio studios

Coming together across the Yarra Ranges Lilydale Lions Club information session: Volunteers are needed and there’s a great opportunity to help your local community by joining a Lions Club. The newly established Lilydale Lions Club are holding a community meeting on Thursday 23 February from 7pm at the Conference Room, Yarra Ranges Council Offices, 15 Anderson Street Lilydale.

Come and see what it is all about; how we help our community and the benefits of being a member of an international organisation which does not use public monies for administration costs.

You may have seen us around Lilydale helping the community during the summer, we don’t just run sausage sizzles and sell Christmas cakes.

Every dollar raised is put back into one of these categories: International disaster assistance Diabetes research Childhood cancer research Environmental causes Vision screening & treatments Hunger projects Youth projects Do you have a local cause which you think needs our help? If so, you are welcome to come along and see what we can do for you.

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Lions Club members Pat Mills and Jim Reynolds were helping draw interest in a Lilydale club by selling Christmas cakes last year.

Picture: LIONS CLUB

World Day of Prayer, Kilsyth:

erpool Road, Kilsyth South

Please join the Kilsyth South Baptist Church as we join together on Friday 3 March at 10am with the church congregations from Montrose and Kilsyth, and more than 3 million people in 170 countries and islands around the world to pray for peace and justice. This year the service of readings prayers and hymns has been prepared by women in Taiwan, and will be used in churches, large and small, cathedrals, retirement villages halls and small worship centres around the world.

World Day of Prayer is an international inter-church organization which enables us to hear the thoughts of women from all parts of the world, their hopes, concerns and prayers.

Kilsyth South Baptist Church, 282-388 Liv-

World Day of Prayer, Mooroolbark: You are invited to a service at St Margaret’s Uniting Church, 219 Hull Road, Mooroolbark on Friday 3 March. The speaker will be Penny Mulvey who is the Communications Officer for the Bible Society. The service starts at 10.30am and lasts about an hour. It will be followed by morning tea.

The World Day of Prayer is a global ecumenical movement led by Christian women who welcome you to join in prayer and action for peace and justice. Through preparation and participation in the worship service, we

Something very special is happening in the Healesville community at 3.03pm on the 3rd day of the 3rd month of the 3rd year of the 3rd decade of the 3rd millennium. That’s Friday the 3rd of March.

The official opening of the new YVFM 99.1 Community Radio studios and relocated Lions Den Opportunity Shop is a community event and will feature special guests, a book launch, free BBQ and musical entertainment as well as an opportunity for locals to see two exciting new community hubs see the new premises. ‘A Strange Business’ and at least three good reasons to come along!

After 35 years the Lions Den are moving their Op Shop from the main street and after 28 years in Woori Yallock YVFM99.1 is moving to new studios - both co-located with Healesville Lions at 9 Lilydale Road.

The new YVFM99.1 home will feature two purpose-built studios and associated production studio and the station will be ‘on air’ locally from this date.

This is an opportunity to hear about the plans for the site and to mingle with volunteer radio presenters, Lions volunteers and others from across the Healesville community as we celebrate this huge milestone and set a path forward. It will be a celebration of lots of hard work to get to this stage and an acknowledgement of the importance of these groups to our community.

We would love to have you join us - please let us know that you are coming for catering purposes by sending an rsvp to info@yarravalleyfm.org.au

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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Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

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OPINION

Road safety needs High praise How many more deaths before governments take seriously the need to upgrade the many known dangerous roads through the Yarra Valley?

It’s been a horror few weeks on Yarra Valley roads with three people tragically losing their lives at known dangerous intersections: Queens and Beenak Roads in Wandin East, and Clegg and Wellington Roads in Wandin North.

My heart and deepest sympathies go out to their families and friends.

It’s made me more determined, not only as a local mum who drives these roads daily, but as your local MP to amplify the campaign to get governments to listen and to act. Enough is enough.

These roads and intersections are notoriously bad. Our dedicated emergency services first responders from CFA and Police – to whom we owe a great debt of gratitude – reiterate their pleas for safety upgrades after every accident. Just like the need to fix Warburton Highway Seville East and Maroondah Highway at Killara Road, Coldstream, why are we being ignored?

From my

desk Bridget Vallence Evelyn MP At the end of the day my community expects all levels of government to work together so we can avoid road trauma and deaths. Governments must stop sidelining the vital need for road safety upgrades that we, as Victorians, need and deserve. Lives are depending on it.

The fact is, the Andrews Labor Government has failed to maintain and upgrade roads that, statistically, they know are dangerous.

Labor cut the road maintenance budget by 10 per cent when it came to government, and road conditions are worse than ever.

In 2017 the Auditor-General warned of the poor state of Victorian roads and the lack of ac-

countability for funding – but Labor cut a further $125 million over the past two Budgets. In 2021 the Labor government backed a recommendation to reduce speed limits on low quality rural roads instead of actually fixing them.

And, Budget after Budget, Labor repeatedly refuses to allocate funds for upgrades to Yarra Valley roads even where accidents have resulted in deaths.

Our community is left to endure a road network that is deteriorated, riddled with potholes, and roads and intersections with poor visibility, inadequate warnings, and poorly placed signage.

In Parliament, I’ll keep calling for urgent action to allocate funds to properly fix known dangerous Yarra Valley roads. Not just painting zig-zag lines or inadequately updating rumble strips, but properly investing in major safety upgrades including warning lights, turning lanes, or roundabouts.

Our community is demanding leadership, not ignorance. Our lives matter. It is time for the government to act and fix these deadly roads.

Hills action Ant-Man 3 scant quality Kemp’s curtain call The Basin Theatre Two and Two Together Season: February 22 - March 5 Rachel’s husband Victor never suspects that she is keeping an assignation with a young man in the house of her good friend Georgina.

Why should he? He has other things on his mind - in the shape of the said Georgina, who he has met secretly while her husband Henry, an actor, is safely occupied in the theatre.

But Henry returns home unexpectedly, and the two couples are forced into a riotous whirlwind of lies and misunderstandings.

Ross Wilson celebrates “50 years of Eagle Rock” Season: Friday March 3 at 9pm From Daddy Cool to Mondo Rock and as a solo artist with no less than 26 ARIA Top 40 hits to his credit as a singer, songwriter and producer, Ross Wilson is one of Australia’s most awarded, respected and well-known artists! From the legendary band Daddy Cool whose 19971 number one anthem Eagle Rock smashed all previous sales records in Australia, to the 1977 formation of Mondo Rock, delivering 80’s hits, Cool World, State of heart, Chemistry, No Time and Come Said the Boy into the 21st century as a solo performer, producer and songwriter, Wilson has never been out of the limelight.

A Gemco in the Park Production Season: Friday March 3 at 6.30p Sunday March 18 at 6.30pm.

Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare. Directed by Sharon Maine.

At Gus Ryberg Amphitheatre, Emerald Lake Park. Emerald Lake Road, Emerald.

The themes of love, mistaken identity, sexual jealousy, honour, betrayal and friendship all play out against the background of the Sicilian countryside.

The war is over. Everyone is out for fun, drinking, dancing, flirting and singing are the order of the day. As Don Pedro and his entourage come to the estate of Leonato, Governor of Messina. mailcommunity.com.au

Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania Starring Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly and Jonathan Majors Rated M 3/5

Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania is fun but frustratingly insubstantial, with several elements that don’t quite succeed, and features many of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s bad habits.

After an experiment by his daughter Cassie (Kathryn Newton), superheroes Scott Lang (Paul Rudd), Hope van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly) and their family are pulled into the quantum realm, a hostile universe beneath our own.

The cast has great chemistry as ever, but the dialogue is serviceable when not annoyingly quippy, and Scott/Ant-Man and Hope/ Wasp are oddly sidelined in their own movie.

Beyond the dramatic goals of escaping the quantum realm and preventing the stranded conqueror Kang (Jonathan Majors) from leaving, the plot is driven by yet another tired Macguffin. Quantumania has wonderfully creative visual and creature design, offset by the MCU’s muted colour palette. The action sequences are framed too close, cut poorly and rarely carry any genuine peril, and the first act has some terribly abrupt pacing.

Fittingly, ants exemplify Quantumania’s

CARTOON

strengths and weaknesses. A triumphant moment in the second act makes brilliant use of swarming imagery, but the ant-based resolution in the third act is a barely-developed Deus Ex Machina.

On the unambiguously good side, Kang is a phenomenal antagonist: a near-unstoppable force of remarkable gravitas. Kang and Janet Van Dyne (Michelle Pfeiffer) anchor the film with a complicated relationship of shared hardship and betrayal. Corey Stoll is endearingly pathetic as the secondary antagonist Modok.

Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania has an outstanding villain surrounded by middling plot and presentation, and is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN

A review of Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro Nobel Prize-winning British author Kazuo Ishiguro’s 2021 novel Klara and the Sun returned to this reviewer’s attention after Ai-Da, “the world’s first ultra-realistic robot artist”, gave evidence at the House of Lords in October 2022.

Ai-Da’s appearance was part of an inquiry into the future of the creative industries in the UK. The much publicised event was indeed informative and inspiring, as not just Ishiguro’s book but also the works of Margaret Boden and Yuval Noah Harari were discussed.

While Ai-Da’s answers to various questions were obviously pre-prepared by her creator Aiden Meller – and therefore mirroring his views and visions about the impact of artificial intelligence on the future of humanity – the presence of a humanoid robot helped making all the imaginable possibilities and pitfalls almost tangible.

Indeed, Ai-Da’s crossed eyes, typos and “pulling interesting faces” helped leading her human audience’s imagination away from The Terminator (1984) and closer to Short Circuit (1988). Seeing her shut down and being rebooted halfway through the evidence session was definitely more interesting than watching politicians falling asleep in parliament.

Like Ai-Da, the first-person narrator in Klara and the Sun is immediately likeable. Klara is an Artificial Friend (AF), designed and developed to keep children company as they are home schooled by “screen professors” in the novel’s much polluted future America.

Klara is exceptionally intelligent and observant, and her knowledge of the world is built upon her constant monitoring and analysis of everything in her immediate surroundings. Through her eyes, we see a society where genetic perfection means “high-rank” class while those not “lifted” are denied education.

It is also through Klara’s observation that we see two mothers and how their love impacts on their children in dramatically different ways. When the Mother acquires the android as a companion for her sickly daughter Josie, it is with a hidden agenda, which slowly but surely leads readers to reflect on the meaning of being human.

More importantly, we are invited to ask: “What does it mean to love?” As Klara is solar powered, she “naturally” recognises the Sun as a great, benevolent living entity capable of offering nourishment to all that he shines upon. Is it possible that his special nourishment can help Josie recover from her illness?

Such mixture of intelligence and naivety is what makes Klara’s narration fascinating. Her language is simple yet sincere, her attention to details amazing, her perceptions of the world occasionally glitching out so that everything turns into cubes and cylinders, and her loyalty to Josie is deeply moving.

Indeed, Klara reminds this reviewer more of WALL-E (2008) than I, Robot (2004), where the robot Sonny’s question “You have to do what someone asks you, don’t you, if you love them?” seems full of pretence. In sharp contrast, Klara never talks about love – she simply does.

Ishiguro’s Klara and the Sun subtly alarms us about the danger of unchecked technological advances while alerting us of the remarkable beauty and fragility of humanity in a refreshing way.

Highly recommended.

Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

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MAIL 19

PUZZLES No. 121

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.

easy

7

3 6

3 8

5 2 7 6

4

3 9 6 6 1 4 7 8 3 8 6 9 2 7 4 8 6 2 5 9 4 medium

4 1 3 8 6 4

5

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS German city (6) Asseveration (6) Master (Indian) (5) Exaggerate (9) Finishes (9) Popular aquarium fish (5) Presentations (6) Cicatrice (4) Sulk (4) Rub out (6) Beautiful woman in Muslim paradise (5) Case holding explosive charge (9) Heights (9) Japanese graphic novels (5) Make certain (6) Hurry (Spanish) (6)

1 4 10 11 12 13 14 15 19 20 24 25 27 28 29 30

3 5 6 7 8 9 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 26

No. 121

Roughly assembled (7) Caller (7) Phantasm (6) Latitude (6) Harbour (4) Ill from ocean movement (7) Candied citrus peel (7) Large Italian island (8) Love-song (8) Hint (7) Supervisors (7) Group of words (6) Fancy hotel rooms (6) Corrosion (4)

DOWN Band member (8) Book of the Hebrew Bible (8)

1 2

DECODER

No. 121

7 9 9 4 3 1 2

2 7 6 8 4

9 5

4 3 2

3 3 9

7

hard

7 3

4

5

6

8

10 11 12 13

G C 16

17

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24

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26

1

2

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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”.

E

Today’s Aim: 23 words: Good 35 words: Very good

L

H

D

U

E

7 1 8 9 6 2 3 4 5 9 5 6 4 1 3 8 2 7 2 3 4 7 8 5 1 6 9 8 4 5 3 2 9 6 7 1 6 9 2 1 4 7 5 3 8 1 7 3 8 5 6 4 9 2 3 2 1 5 7 4 9 8 6 4 8 7 6 9 1 2 5 3 5 6 9 2 3 8 7 1 4

7 9 4 1 2 6 5 3 8 1 2 3 8 5 4 6 7 9 5 8 6 3 7 9 4 1 2 8 7 5 9 3 1 2 6 4 6 1 9 2 4 8 7 5 3 4 3 2 7 6 5 8 9 1 3 6 8 4 9 7 1 2 5 9 5 1 6 8 2 3 4 7 2 4 7 5 1 3 9 8 6

D

C

S

cede, ceded, cedes, clue, clued, clues, cuddle, cuddles, cues, deduce, deduces, deed, delude, deludes, deuce, deuced, duel, duels, educe, educed, educes, else, elude, eluded, eludes, heed, heeds, heel, heels, held, huddle, huddles, hued, leech, schedule, SCHEDULED, seclude, secluded, seduce, seduced, seed, shed, slue, slued, sued, suede, used

8 6 2 3 4 1 5 7 9 1 4 3 7 5 9 6 2 8 5 7 9 8 2 6 3 1 4 9 2 4 6 1 8 7 5 3 7 5 6 2 3 4 9 8 1 3 8 1 5 9 7 2 4 6 2 1 8 9 7 3 4 6 5 4 9 5 1 6 2 8 3 7 6 3 7 4 8 5 1 9 2 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

9

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

47 words: Excellent

hard

7

15

medium

2

14

easy

1

3 LETTERS ALE APT ASH AVO BEE BRA BUT DEN ERA FBI HAT HEW IRE NOR NOT OAR ODE OVA REV RYE SHE SUE TWO URN

WU O N I K J S M Y R P Q

1 6 5 8 6 3 9 4 6 7 7 5 8 1 1 7 2 6 8 9 3 5 5 7 3 8

E V Z L D B A X H F T GC

4

WORDFIT

4 LETTERS ACNE CASE CEDE CORN COST NEST ORAL PAID PATS PUCK SARI SEES SINK USER 5 LETTERS ALOUD

No. 121

7 ( 1 ( 7

AMASS APRON ARENA ARGUE ATLAS AVAIL AWARD CACAO CADET CAVES CEASE CHASM CLEAT DRESS DWELT EASEL EDGES EERIE GOUGE HONES HOUSE

LARVA LATHE LATHS METRE OASES OLIVE OPALS OPERA OVALS PETTY RANGE REELS RESIN ROLLS SALTS SANDS SILOS SLEET SNEER SOLES STAGS

START SWEET TENET TEPEE THERE TRIBE WEAVE

7 LETTERS DISCARD ERASURE LANTERN MOISTER PULSATE ROUTINE

6 LETTERS DEAFER EITHER SENDER WINGED

8 LETTERS EIGHTEEN EVILLEST NOBLEMAN TOMORROW

$: $ 5 ' 6 2 / ( 6 & + $ 6 0 7 ( 3 ( ( $ 9 $ , / ( ( 5 , ( / $ 5 9 $ 5 $ 1 * ( ' : ( / 7 ) % , 7 + ( 5 ( 1 2 5 $ 9 2 6 ( 1 ' ( 5 3 ( 7 7 < & $ 6 ( ( 5 $ 6 8 5 ( ( 5 $ & 2 5 1 $ & 1 ( 2 9 $ / 6 6 , 1 .

1 2 % / ( 0 $ 1 $ / ( ' , 6 & $ 5 ' 3 8 / 6 $ 7 ( ( 9 , / / ( 6 7 3 $ 7 6 6 + ( 7 ( 1 ( 7 2 5 $ / 8 6 ( 5 $ 6 + 0 2 , 6 7 ( 5 & 2 6 7 $ / 2 8 ' : , 1 * ( ' $ 3 7 6 7 $ 5 7 1 2 7 2 $ 5 7 5 , % ( + 2 8 6 ( & ( $ 6 ( $ 5 * 8 ( + 2 1 ( 6 ( ' * ( 6 2 $ 6 ( 6 6 : ( ( 7 5 ( ( / 6

SUDOKU

24-02-23

William Matthews Funerals 24 HOUR SERVICE - ALL AREAS

9739 6868 45 Cave Hill Rd, Lilydale www.williammatthewsfunerals.com.au 12567382-JW37-22

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INSPIRING ARCHITECTURE WITH CITY VIEWS ORIGINALLY designed by architects Max May and George Hatzisavas, and inspired by a mix of Japanese aesthetics and Frank Lloyd Wrights “Fallingwater“ this inspiring steel, glass and brick home set on just over one acre has been recently redesigned and renovated to a superb standard, resulting in one of the most intriguing and sophisticated residences in the area.

Spanning three levels of luxury living, there is much to love about this home. The large expanse of Viridian glass windows effortlessly combines indoor and outdoor living while warm wood grain finishes throughout are a reminder of the natural beauty that timber brings. Three spacious bedrooms have been well positioned for privacy and convenience. The main bedroom in the East wing of the home boasts a large and luxurious en-suite and all bedrooms have built in robes and their own private balconies. The main level incorporates a free flowing family room and spacious dining area centered around a bespoke gas log fireplace. The tastefully designed kitchen comes complete with stone bench tops, dual stainless steel sinks, German designed NEFF appliances including integrated dishwasher, induction cooktop and electric oven and an abundance of quality cabinetry.

Just perfect for entertaining.

From the main level an oversized glass sliding door leads onto a substantial timber deck. Ideal for picture perfect sunset views across nearby Birdsland and as far as the city lights or simply just to relax and watch the kids playing in the lagoon style pool or splashing in the hot tub. Extra lighting around the pool and house give a magical feel when enjoying a warm summers night or an evening swim.

Second living area can be found on the lower level and is ideal for watching a quiet movie while the home office nook is a convenient and cozy space for those who need a working from home or study space.

Soft new carpet and modern tiles throughout compliment the finish of this outstanding home, abundant built in cupboards provide ample storage and zoned integrated heating and cooling maintain an ideal climate no matter what the seasons bring.

A 5.5kw solar system and 2 x 10,000 litre water tanks provide excellent environmental benefits as does the solid brick exterior walls and fully insulated roof and sub floor.

Additional storage and a large workshop are situated under the house and with a double garage and a fully fenced yard, this unique, family friendly Hills property is sure to impress on every level. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 106 Mt Morton Road, BELGRAVE HEIGHTS Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,600,000 - $1,750,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Glenn Chandler 0418 410 689, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE

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HOME FOCUS

TICKS ALL THE EXTRA BOXES SPACE for the family, pets, cars, and everything else you need to bring.

This home offers space for everyone and everything, multiple living spaces, including a kitchen meals area, a separate study area off the second living space, family room with a wood fire whilst ducted heating keeps you warm on those cold nights.

The home consists of 4 bedrooms (or 3 and a study) including the master with walk through robe to ensuite. The small loft space is also a great place to hide out or use for storage.

Easily entertain with access to the paved area outside from the kitchen/meals area.

Outside is amazing with a home office/ studio or maybe an extra room for the kids/ teenagers, the shedding is fantastic with a 9m x 9m barn with an extra mezzanine level, 6m x 9.8m garage and a large carport that could potentially house six cars.

Enjoy the low-maintenance gardens and extra garden sheds.

There is so much to love about this house and Cockatoo in general, with its beautiful parks and gardens, fabulous local shops, schools, eateries, sporting clubs and with Emerald only a 7-minute drive away and Melbourne under an hour, you really will want this to be your new home. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 2 Nangana Street, COCKATOO Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 5 garage Price: $860,000 - $940,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 and Janet Hawkins 0409 117 432, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL, 9754 6111

Mountainview Retirement Village

Brand New Retirement Living $449,000.00

2 BEDROOM Unit for sale in Warburton • Lounge, Kitchen movable bench configure the room to suit your needs split system for heating and cooling • Large Bathroom walk in shower vanity exhaust fan heat lamp • Large ensuite with walk in shower vanity exhaust fan heat lamp • Large master bedroom full wardrobe, split system heater and cooling,

Large second bedroom with double door wardrobe split system heating and cooling • Single car garage attached • Solar installed • All white goods included, fridge washing machine dryer micro oven

2

1

• Large balcony with views of the mountains and surrounding country side • Units all on one level Beautiful location in Warburton

For further information and to arrange inspection contact: Keith King (03) 9259 2106 I keith.king@adventcare.org.au 12589938-JC07-23

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HOME FOCUS

PEACEFUL HIDEAWAY AND UNIQUE IF you’re looking for something special and unique, then you must not look past this amazing property.

Nestled on almost half an acre, plus river reserve in a serene forest setting, which is home to an abundance of wildlife including lyrebirds, wallabies, wombats and many more. Strolling along the pathways that meander throughout the gardens, you will also discover the crystal-clear Badger Creek on your back doorstep.

This much-loved family home offers something for everyone from the spacious living room complete with wood heater and split system, to the modern well-equipped kitchen with a vibrant glass splashback.

Offering 2 generous sized bedrooms on the ground floor and an updated family bathroom, while upstairs you will discover a stunning parent’s retreat with an ensuite full

of natural light and treetop views. Stepping out onto your own private balcony is where you can relax and listen to all the sounds of nature. You can also entertain family and friends on the larger entertaining deck which overlooks the beautiful, maintained gardens.

Other additions include lock-up garage plus workshop, large carport and veggie gardens.

This rare property is located on the doorstep of Badger Weir reserve, and Yarra Ranges National Park, yet still only a short drive to the bustling food and wine precinct of Healesville. If this is the lifestyle you have been searching for, you must inspect to fully appreciate this private property.

For sale by Openn Negotiation, an online flexible terms Auction system and is open to all qualified buyers allowing for flexible terms (pending Vendor approval). The property can sell at anytime. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 113 Badger Weir Road, BADGER CREEK Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: Price Guide $870,000 - $950,000 Auction: Online Auction Inspect: Private appointment and schedule open for Inspection Contact: Gary Lucas 0407 595 113, MARK GUNTHER FIRST NATIONAL REAL ESTATE

5962 3030

Mark Gunther ST JU TED LIS

markgunther.com.au 189 Maroondah Highway, Healesville W NE ICE PR

Healesville 2/15 Stephens Road

2A 2B 1C

Healesville 1/14 Elamo Road

3A 2B 2C

This spacious open-plan townhouse is neatly tucked away in a complex of only four. The light & bright home features ensuite & WIR to the master, kitchen with stainless steel appliances, generous meals area, north-facing lounge & GDH plus a private, fully fenced courtyard & single garage with internal access. Currently tenanted until Feb 23.

FOR SALE

Proudly positioned only moments from Queens Park & the food & wine precinct in the east end, is this fantastic home. Comprising a large, light-filled open planned living zone with the modern kitchen, dining & living area looking out to the private courtyard.

Also includes master suite with WIR & ensuite, GDH & split system, established gardens & double garage.

FOR SALE

$580,000 - $630,000 Inspect

By Appointment or OFI Agent Mark Gunther 0448 623 030

Inspect

By Appointment or OFI Agent Mark Gunther 0448 623 030

R FO LE SA

R FO LE SA

Narbethong 556 Marysville Road

6A 3B 4C

Healesville 4 Baden Powell Drive

This architecturally designed home on 1 acre (approx), features a large open plan living & dining area, modern kitchen & generous master with ensuite. The 5 bedrooms have views across the gardens upstairs, plus a 3rd stylish family bathroom & guest bedroom downstairs. Outside there is a covered entertaining area, plus a double carport.

FOR SALE

If you’re looking for a usable block to build your home, (STCA) then look no further than this near level parcel of land. Set in a semi-rural area, the outlook is great with filtered views across to the nearby hills.

On this fully fenced block of approx. 660m2, there is water, a storage shed & almost no trees & is located only a short drive to Healesville’s town centre.

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$595,000

$795,000 - $870,000 Inspect

By Appointment or OFI Agent Gary Lucas 0407 595 113

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FOR SALE $349,000 Inspect

By Appointment Agent Gary Lucas 0407 595 113

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HOME FOCUS

SERENITY, VIEWS, PRIVACY AND LUXURY THIS home is an absolute delight.

Situated on 14.95 hectares of natural bush, meander along the tree lined driveway, past the beautiful perch filled dam to find an expansive and elegant family home situated in a clearing offering fantastic views.

There is a wide wrap around verandah to enjoy the incredible views across Western Port Bay to French Island, or to soak in the wildlife and serenity. This property is complete with its own waterfall and an abundance of wildlife that visit such as deer, kangaroos, echidnas and a resident goanna.

Entry to this home is breath taking with the exposed rafters in the lounge room, complete with wood fire. The high ceilings continue throughout the home, as do the floor to ceiling windows bringing in the light, and allowing you to enjoy the views are you meander through the home feeling submersed in nature.

There are three expansive bedrooms at the front of the home, each containing

split system air-conditioners. Two of the 3 bedrooms offer external access and all bedrooms are light and bright with serene views. These bedrooms are serviced by an enormous bathroom/laundry area, with claw foot bath, shower, toilet, and vanity.

There is a centrally located lounge room between the three bedrooms, and then the home flows through another loungeroom/ play area, to the kitchen. The kitchen is a chefs delight, with plentiful bench space, a gas stove top, electric oven, butlers pantry complete with sink and Natura Stone bench top. The kitchen overlooks the third lounge area which has a further wood fire to keep you cosy as you enjoy the vista.

There is also 46,000L of water, spread across four water tanks. A home office/ gym area, and a double lock up garage (8m * 8m) with attached lean too for all your storage requirements. There is also a fully integrated alarm system, and high speed mobile internet. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 205 Morrison Road, PAKENHAM UPPER Description: 4 bedrooms, 1 bathrooms, 3 garage Price: $1,350,000 - $1,450,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Aaron Day 0407 365 994 and Brennan Mileto 0422 996 451, BELL REAL ESTATE, EMERALD 24

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P 5968 6222 311-313 Main Street Emerald

3 Steane Street, Cockatoo

$890,000 - $950,000

$1,450,000-$1,550,000

132 Kirkpatricks Road, Macclesfield

Exceptional family home with space, privacy and fantastic entertaining shed!

Stunning 10 Acres with Family Home, Views and Grazing Paddocks!

This 4 bedroom plus study, 2 bathroom home has an open plan kitchen, dining & lounge room.

Features include engineered floor boards, stainless steel appliances, gas stove top, electric oven, island bench, rangehood & dishwasher. There is a split system AC in the dining, & wood fire heater for your comfort in the loungeroom, & gas ducted heating throughout. All bedrooms & the office have BIRs & ceiling fans. The family bathroom has a free standing bath, walk in shower, & vanity. The master bedroom has a WIR, & walk in shower, double vanity, & toilet. The rear decking entertaining area has a gas woodfire heater & ceiling fan, overlooking the built in play equipment. Externally, there is a DLUG with remote control entry, & workshop area, tiled toilet, wood fire, & pool table/bar area. There is a covered area with lighting, & the yard is fully fenced with a second driveway.

With 3 bedrooms, a study, 2 bathrooms, 2 living areas, stunning views. This home has 3 double carports, a large shed/workshop, an extra high caravan parking area, a further extra high shed/ workshop, a sealed drive, over 6 acres of grazing paddocks & three gorgeous lily filled dams. The kitchen is open plan with the dining & lounge room. There is a split system AC, reverse cycle heating & cooling in the home, & a woodfire for year round comfort. The entertainer’s kitchen has a huge stone island bench, an abundance of storage, 1200mm Smeg double oven, an externally mounted, silent range hood & a walk in butler’s pantry. There are hardwood floor boards throughout the home.

Master with ensuite, WIR & it’s own living room with wood fire & split system is located at the end of the home - perfect as a parent’s retreat. Only 10 minutes from either Emerald or Monbulk townships.

Aaron Day M 0407 365 994

Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451

Samantha Scott M 0438 680 032

4

89 Bellbird Crescent, Emerald

A

2

B 2 C

3

$380,000 - $410,000

205 Morrison Road, Pakenham Upper

A

2

B 4 C

$1,350,000 - $1,450,000

Over a quarter of an acre of land, only moments from Emerald Park Lake!

Serenity, views, privacy and luxury await!

This fantastic block is exceptionally close to central Emerald. Only moments from Emerald Park Lake, and the amenities at Avonsleigh such as Bam Bam’s restaurant. This natural block has planning approval, with the final touches being arranged for a stamped planning permit. This block also offers unsurpassed privacy, as it is surrounded by Crown land! So sit back and enjoy the view of Puffing Billy Train meandering past the rear of your block and the peace and quiet of the surrounding bushland.

Situated on 14.95 hectares of natural bush, with a perch filled dam is an elegant family home with fantastic views. With 2 wood fire places, 3 loungerooms, high ceilings and exposed rafters, this home exudes character. All 4 bedrooms have Split System ACs. The kitchen has a gas stove top, electric oven, butlers pantry complete with sink & Natura Stone bench top. The kitchen overlooks the third lounge area which has a further wood fire to keep you cosy as you enjoy the vista. The master has a WIR. Externally there is a fantastic covered entertaining area or enjoy the evening in the rotunda, or wander down to your own waterfall! There is also 46,000L of water, spread across four water tanks. A home office/gym area, and a double lock up garage (8m * 8m) with attached lean too. There is a fully integrated alarm system, & high speed mobile internet.

Richard Birtchnell M 0438 747 357

Aaron Day M 0407 365 994

A

B

Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451

C

4

A

1

B 3 C

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HOME FOCUS

A MUDBRICK WITH STYLE AND CLASS ATTENTION all nature lovers and weekend warriors.

Your search for the ultimate getaway ends here at 20 Baden Powell Drive, Healesville.

This magnificent mud brick abode is a true gem, offering the perfect blend of character, charm, and modern comfort. Step inside and be swept away by the beautifully and stylishly renovated open plan interior.

With two spacious bedrooms complete with built-in robes, you’ll have plenty of space to relax and unwind. The brand-new kitchen is the heart of the home, offering a sleek and functional space to cook up a storm while enjoying the ambience that only a mudbrick can create.

Soak up the beautiful atmosphere in the stunning modern bathroom which exudes a feeling of sophistication.

With a wood heater and reverse cycle split system, you’ll stay warm and comfortable all year round.

Set on a sprawling land size of approximately 1330 sqm enjoying views across the valley to distant mountains, this quirky cottage is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.

Whether you’re a weekender looking for a peaceful escape or someone searching for a unique and cosy home, this is the place for you.

Currently the property is popular as an Air B&B so this may be the avenue that you want to pursue.

Don’t miss this amazing opportunity book your inspection today. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 20 Baden Powell Drive, HEALESVILLE Description: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom Price: $780,000 - $840,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Jane Nunn 0432 375 940, email: jane@integrityrealestate.com.au, INTEGRITY REAL ESTATE 26

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12590724-HC08-23

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HOME FOCUS

PEACE AND PRIVACY IN A GREAT LOCATION TIME for a change of scenery, this could be the spot, surrounded by lush bush and a picturesque location it’s the ideal place to relax and unwind.

The home is fresh, light and bright and offering great space inside and out with 3 good size bedrooms all with built in robes.

Luxurious main bathroom plus an open plan lounge/living area and kitchen with

modern appliances throughout.

Outside there is plenty of room for the whole family to enjoy, with a great size back yard plus a carport and lock up garage and with ample space for cars and trailers.

A fantastic property superbly presented and with nothing to do but sit back relax and enjoy the tranquil and peaceful surrounds. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 13 Rainbow Trout Avenue, EAST WARBURTON Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: $580,000 - $610,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: David Carroll 0419 539 320, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION, 5967 1277 28

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P 5966 2530

P 5967 1277

3407 Warburton Highway, Warburton

17 Whitegum Drive, East Warburton

$630,000 - $690,000

2457 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction

53 Old Warburton Highway, Seville East

$820,000 - $870,000

Near New Miners Cottage with Stunning Mountain Views!

Character & Charm, 5 bedrooms on a super size block

Set on a beautiful near flat allotment of approx. 1700m2 is this 2 year old Miners Cottage with glorious mountain views! The home has 3 huge bedrooms with robes and gorgeous carpet, a big light and bright bathroom with ensuite effect and a spacious open plan kitchen, living and meals area that looks out to the mountain vista. Modern miner’s cottage features such as high ceilings, entrance hall, wide cornices and high skirts all enhance the charm of this near new build. Other features include NBN connection, wood heating, split system heating and cooling, ceiling fan, timber kitchen, single carport and loads of storage including pull down steps to access the roof cavity. The fabulous block is a blank canvas for you to create your own style, has excellent fencing and plenty of room to play!

Built to last and save on the power bills, this home will keep you cool in summer and warm in winter.

This charming 1920’s character home is a fabulous opportunity for those seeking large family living in an great location with a huge block of over 3300sqm approx. Spacious living for everyone to enjoy, cosy separate lounge with large picturesque windows, open plan kitchen, flowing on from the dining is a 2nd living space, certainly a big bonus for the kids to have their own retreat. There are 5 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, glorious features throughout the home include ornate ceilings, cornices, and hard wood floors add to the charm and character.Undercover parking for up to 5 cars with a single garage, double carport, and parking space under the decking sweeping asphalt driveway, lots of useful space, great for tradies. This is an opportunity for those seeking a character home on a great sized block in a high demand area.

Tony Fanfulla M 0419 870 513 Inspection: Sat 2-2.30pm

170 Eacotts Rd, Hoddles Creek

Samantha Price M 0438 795 190

3

A

1

Rebecca Doolan M 0401 832 068 Inspection: Sat 3 -3.30pm

B 1 C

$1,250,000 - $1,360,000

5

614 Woods Point Rd, East Warburton

A

2

B 5 C

$680,000 - $740,000

Paradise Found

Mt View Park - Idyllic setting on over 1 acre

Approximately 80 peaceful, picturesque acres. Offering acres and acres of quality undulating pasture with some scattered trees and bush area, numerous paddocks offer great space for the horse enthusiast, cattle grazing or just the ultimate lifestyle change. Plenty of water with a natural spring and dam, several ideal building sites (STCA) to capture great views to be enjoyed from all aspects, a fantastic location with sealed road access and surrounded by large acreage properties.

This property is the ultimate lifestyle escape offering an abundance of space, peace and privacy so come and enjoy what the relaxed country life has to offer.

A home for the heart, this property will soothe the soul and fill your body with beautiful fresh air and all the good feels. A lovely home that features cathedral ceilings, 3 spacious bedrooms and a study or large store room, a renovated bathroom with feature clawfoot bath, functional kitchen and meals area, and beautiful front and rear verandahs which provide under cover entertaining areas, and a great place to sit and watch the kids splash around in the inground pool. The added bonuses to this property are the large garage/workshop with enough space to park multiple vehicles, two gorgeous little single roomed cottages that would be ideal for meditation rooms, super cubby houses or work from home spaces, a wood shed, chook run and abundant room to run, play and explore! A perfect place to call home, or enjoy weekend after weekend getting away from Melbourne.

David Carroll M 0419 539 320 Inspection:

By Appointment

Tony Fanfulla M 0419 870 513 Inspection:

By Appointment

Samantha Price M 0438 795 190

3

A

1

B 2 C

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HOME FOCUS

CHARM, CHARACTER AND CONVENIENCE LOVINGLY restored to highlight the quality and true character of this circa 1950’s weatherboard home, you will be delighted with the finishing touches and detail that this property provides.

Within a stone’s throw of Belgrave’s eclectic main street, train station and local schools, location is only one of the many features you will love about this property.

Inside, the high ceilings look down on a floorplan that consists of three spacious bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (ensuite to main bedroom), a sun filled lounge and a large kitchen /diner that comes with not only a great amount of bench space but also plenty of personality.

Gas ducted heating and evaporative cooling runs throughout making temperature control quick and convenient while original features such as sash windows and original picture rails have really stood the test of time and are as sought after today as they were when the home was originally built.

As an extended living area option, the rear under cover decking with full retractable blinds is a great space to enjoy in all weather conditions.

With dual frontage from both BelgraveGembrook Road and also Heathermont Avenue, access is never an issue, however you can leave your car at home and take the easy walk to all that beautiful Belgrave provides.

Picture perfect and built to impress, this cute cottage has charm, character and convenience like no other. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 7 Belgrave-Gembrook Road, BELGRAVE Description: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1 garage Price: $730,000 - $790,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 30

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Real Estate you can trust!

We ’ r e h e r e t o h e l p FOR SALE

7 Belgrave-Gembrook Road, BELGRAVE

$730,000 - $790,000

CHARM, CHARACTER & CONVENIENCE!

3A2B1C

Lovingly restored to highlight the quality and true character of this circa 1950’s weatherboard home, you will be delighted with the finishing touches and detail that this property provides. Within a stone’s throw of Belgrave’s eclectic main street, train station and local schools, location is only one of the many features you will love about this property. Plan your viewing today!

FOR SALE

$450,000 - $495,000

4/6 Pleasant Road, FERNTREE GULLY

2A1B1C

PRIME POSITION WITH SWEEPING CITY VIEWS

With options to start out, scale down, or supplement your property portfolio, this neatly presented unit promises to make any new homeowners proud. With sweeping views straight through to the sparkling city lights, this unit is truly something special.

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

Sharyn Chandler

Daniel Steen

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

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

FOR SALE

227 Mt Morton Road, BELGRAVE HEIGHTS

$1,200,000 - $1,320,000

IDYLLIC ACREAGE WITH IMPRESSIVE FAMILY HOME

4A2B2C

FOR SALE

$480,000 - $520,000

88 Martin Street, BELGRAVE

2A1B

DECEASED ESTATE

With over 1 acre of wildlife-welcoming landscaped gardens highlighted by meandering pathways and bridges over beautiful ponds, this property is truly something special. Fully fenced and featuring a sealed drive, triple garage, workshop, wood shed, veggie beds, and more, inspection promises to impress at this exceptional Hills home.

Opportunity is knocking loud and clear at this sensational investment steps from Borthwick Park, bus transport, and Belgrave Outdoor Pool. Partially renovated and perched upon a 1,060sqm (approx.) allotment with elevated outlooks, this central property is the ideal investment in this sought-after locale.

Brad Conder

Suzie Brannelly

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

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

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

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SPORT

Challenges await Lilydale

By Ronen Erulkar Another weekend of cricket was complete as Lilydale Cricket Club nears the end of the home and away season. Unfortunately the U10 Mini Bash and U12 teams were abandoned on Friday due to the league heat policy meaning these games could not proceed.

The U18s were unable to defend their total of 113 from the first week against Eildon Park, with the opposition chasing the total down without losing a wicket. This leaves one more game for the season, with the team looking to finish the season on a high.

On Saturday morning, the U16s successfully defended their first innings total of 167 on day one, bowling Vermont out for 121. Lachlan McCall (2/7) and Caleb Uerat (2/24) were the pick of the bowlers and this gets the team very close to securing a finals berth with one game to play.

In the Trollope Shield, the First XI chased down a big total of 260 against South Croydon to secure a double chance finals berth and a chance to knock North Ringwood off top spot next week. Shifran Muthalif (107) hit back to back centuries to lead the team to victory, and was supported by Brenton Pearce (38), Daniel Thompson (29) and Angus Adamson (28). A big game awaits next week at Lilydale Reserve.

In the Meehan Shield, the Second XI were in with a chance of victory against the top team however let it slip after the tea break. Defending 177, they had Croydon Ranges 4/39 early, however they finished the day 8/196 to claim

Lilydale Cricket Club is in with a chance to play finals across many age groups.

Picture: FIELD OF VIEW SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY victory. Bailey Humphrey stood tall all day, taking 5/47 from 16.5 overs. Next week is a must win game to secure a spot in the finals.

The Third XI had a tough day against Wandin, who beat them by 4 wickets. Lilydale batted first and managed to score 6/152, with Brett Smart carrying his bat on 68*. In reply,

Montrose cricket players mark big milestones Montrose Cricket Club has welcomed a number of players into the 100 wicket club, as well as many notching up over 50 games.

Cam Storm celebrated his 100 wicket milestone in 71 games at the club.

Having a stellar season at Montrose, Storm has gained 21 wickets this year, getting him to equal first for the number wickets taken.

Matt Mckane also welcomed 100 wickets from 161 games with the Wolves.

This year he has taken 12 wickets, contributing to his average of 9.58.

Despite leading the wickets taken leaderboard, Max Cron celebrated a different milestone, reaching 50 games for Montrose recently.

In just 50 games, Cron has overall scored 57 wickets and 259 runs.

Fourth XI co-captain Jake Smith also entered the 50 game zone, playing it recently.

Dominating the runs made, Smith has scored 777 for the seniors.

There must be something in the water at Montrose because a couple of weeks ago Sixth XI captain Gary Magnall surpassed 2000 runs for the club from 139 games.

The weekend of cricket did not get off to a good start with the junior play on Friday being cancelled due to extreme heat and fire danger.

The Ringwood and District Cricket Association made the call around midday on Friday, with games not being rescheduled.

Montrose also made the call to cancel the Junior and Master Blasters session on Friday due to the heat.

On Saturday, the First XI faced North Ringwood away. Batting first, it was a tight first innings for Montrose, scoring 240 runs from 78.2 overs.

But it wasn’t quite enough, with North Ringwood winning the innings after knocking the Wolves out and coming into bat finishing the day with a score of 3/241.

The Second XI also had a tough day against North Ringwood. Batting first at home, Montrose made 9/176 (dec).

Getting the run chase underway, North Ringwood held strong, finishing the day with 3/177.

In the women’s competition on Sunday, Montrose faced Officer at home, winning the first innings.

Wandin chased the total down in the 29th over, with Noah Hoare taking 2/19.

The Fourth XI had a tight loss against North Ringwood, who beat them by 5 runs. Bowling first, Lilydale kept the opposition to 5/183 with Darcey Barker taking 2/11. In reply, the Falcons were bowled out for 178 in 34 overs,

Dwayne Dobinson (34) and Darcey Barker (26) top scoring. They have secured a spot in finals and a win next week may help to secure a home game.

The Fifth XI failed to chase down Mooroolbark’s total of 8/160. Bowling first, Sriram Sridharan (2/18) and Rhys Allen (2/20) were the pick of the bowlers. In the run chase, Angus Smith (40), Callum Doyle (27) and Sean McDonnell (24) were the main scorers, however as a team Lilydale could not quite get to the total, finishing 9/146.

Rounding out the seniors, the Sixth XI took on Wonga Park. Bowling first, Wonga Park compiled 7/211 - with a number of bowlers taking 1 wicket each. In reply, they could only manage 186, with Quenten Wells (56) and Cooper Doughty (30) top scoring. Next week is a must win game against St Andrews to secure a spot in the finals.

On Sunday morning, the Stage 1 girls team took on Eastfield who made 7/122 batting first. Emma Hartigan (2/30) was the pick of the bowlers. In reply, Lilydale fell 7 runs short - scoring 3/115. Evie Bayliss (13) and Charlie Doughty (15) top scored. This brings their season to a close, a big well done to all the volunteers and players for a fantastic first season as a group.

This coming Saturday the club is hosting its annual ladies day function, raising much needed funds for the Ronald McDonald House Charities. Details are available on the Lilydale Cricket Club Facebook page, including a link to donate if you can’t make it on the day.

Former AFL player Aaron Mullett leaves Mooroolbark Mooroolbark Football Club has suffered a major blow on the eve of the season’s start, with homegrown star player and former AFL player Aaron Mullett making the switch to Wandin in the Outer East Football Netball League.

Mullett played 98 games in seven years in the AFL system, with 85 of those coming at North Melbourne and 13 in one season at the Blues in 2018.

Following his AFL career, Mullett returned to boyhood club Mooroolbark where he played until 2023, including in their grand final loss to East Ringwood last season.

Playing as a dashing rebound defender in the AFL, Mullett seamlessly transitioned to a devastating midfielder/forward back in the EFNL 1st Division, kicking 47 (league highest), 29 (shortened season) and 58 goals in the three seasons he spent there.

Aaron Mullett in action for Mooroolbark in 2022.

Picture: ON FILE

Montrose Cricket Club’s home ground had an upset and a win recorded over the weekend.

304389 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

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MAIL 33

SPORT

Emily and Brooklea with their medals.

Ashleigh, Hayley and Rori representing Yarra Ranges Athletics at HVC/AVT meet.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Record region medal haul

By Jamie Strudley Possibly the busiest weekend of the season for Yarra Ranges Athletics the club is ecstatic with the efforts and achievements of its athletes.

A weekend that included World Cross Country Championships, final round of AVSL and Little Athletics Region Track and Field Championships that saw members and families spread far and wide. A big thank you to all the club helpers that covered duties at AVSL and Region champs.

A record medal haul from the Little Athletics athletes was the highlight of a busy weekend along with untold PB’s and top 10 finishes at the region championships. Results are: G17 Sasha Carroll 100m, 14.49 (1st); 400m 67.66 (1st); 800m 2:50.73 (1st); 100mH 18.33 (1st); 300mH 57.12 (1st); Erin Taylor 400m 68.81 (2nd); LJ Erin Taylor 3.79m (1st); TJ 9.04m (1st); G15 Kristina Nackovski 400m 67.19 (2nd); 800m 2:27.60 (2nd); Stephanie van Bemmel TJ 9.67m (1st); DT 25.44m (4th); Keira Taylor LJ 4.14m (3rd); DT 18.13m (8th); SP Keira Taylor 7.65m (5th); G14 Kayla Paton 13.43 (3rd); 200m 27.75 (3rd); 400m 63.75 (3rd); G13 Tanaya Stone 100m 14.14 (8th); 200m 29.63 (10th); LJ 4.03m (4th); TJ 8.50m (5th); Emily Fiedler 100m 14.26 (11th); 200m 29.04 (5th); 80mH 15.75 (2nd); 200mH 32.09 (2nd); TJ 9.01m (4th); Caitlyn Pointon 100m 18.67 (21st); SP 4.46m (8th); Brookley Horsburgh 400m 68.20 (6th); 80mH 15.99 (3rd); LJ 3.91m (5th); HJ 1.27m (3rd); DT 17.92m (7th); Tori Kincaid 1500m 6:40.85 (5th); DT 17.10m (8th); Chloe Granger DT 15.90m (10th); SP 5.89m (6th); Demi Aborowa DT 14.47m (11th); JT 9.95m (7th); SP 3.91m (5th); TJ 5.57m (16th); G12 Mackenzie Graham 100m 15.42 (8th); 200m 31.72 (8th); DT 18.09m (5th); LJ 3.75m (6th); SP 8.90m (4th); Janna Rodriguez 100m 16.49 (14th); 400m 78.49 (6th); 80mH 19.92 (10th); DT 12.55m (11th); Brienna Coffey 800m 2:47.98 (8th); Shania Tove JT 15.10m (5th); SP 7.16m (9th); Sarina Hathaway JT 12.55m (8th); G11 Lexi Aders 400m 77.14 (12th); Pippa Congreve 800m 2:59.76 (12th); 1500m 6:01.43 (6th); TJ 6.74m (20th); Holly Yorke 800m 3:06.19 (15th); 1100mW 6:35.03 (2nd); TJ 7.24m (12th);

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34 MAIL

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Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

of AVSL, the final round before finals. With so many members away at other events, participating numbers were lower resulting in a lower team score. It looks as though Yarra Ranges will finish the season in equal first. We now look forward to finals in a few weeks. Results from the weekend are: Women 100m: Ashleigh Rooke 13.57 (0.9); 200m: Rori Jones 29.58 (2.2); Ciara Willey 30.07 (0.5); 800m: Ciara Willey 2:41.95; 3000m: Brigitte Rice 10:27.96; 400m Hurdles: Rori Jones 73.26; 1500m Walk: Emilie Garside 9:05.7h; Long Jump: Kathi Hewitson 2.63m; Sharon Cook 2.17m; Discus: Ashleigh Rooke 31.16m; Meg Sparkes 28.67m; Javelin: Hayley Wilkins 29.99m; Anne-Marie Ebbels 14.34m; Ciara Willey 11.87m; Sharon Cook 10.99m; Kathi Hewitson 10.22m; Shot Put: Ashleigh Rooke 8.83m; Meg Sparkes 6.84m; Emilie Garside 5.19m; Men 100m: Mitchell Mullens 11.41 (+0.0); 200m: Liam Russell 25.53 (1.6); Oliver Duncan 26.01 (1.6); Joseph Johnston 27.64 (0.1); Michael Willey 30.54 (1.1); 800m: Noah Wright 1:58.94; Craig Hewitson 2:29.70; Michael Willey 2:46.27; 1500m: Bradley McMeeken 6:48.3h Long Jump: Oliver Duncan 5.56m; Liam Russell 5.05m; Oliver Duncan 5.56m; Lucas Taylor 4.17m; Craig Hewitson 3.68m; High Jump: Oliver Duncan 1.64m; Javelin: Lucas Taylor 36.66m; Craig Hewitson 16.83m; Michael Willey 11.58m; Yarra Ranges Athletics athletes were in sizzling form at the last round of HVC and AVT on Thursday night at Doncaster with Mitch Mullens continuing his fine form with a sub 23 second 200m Results are: 100m: Mitchell Mullens 11.53 (1.6); Ashleigh Rooke 13.56 (+0.0); 200m: Mitchell Mullens 22.96 (1.7); Ashleigh Rooke 27.82 (1.2); Rori Jones 29.23 (1.8); 400m Hurdles: Rori Jones 72.73; Javelin: Ash Almond 45.88m; Hayley Wilkins 32.85m; Good luck to Yarra Ranges athletes competing at the Victorian U13-U18 Track and Field Championships at Lakeside Stadium. Little athletics will return this Saturday morning from 8.00am Training is available to all club members on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5.30pm.

Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability. If you, or someone you know, wants to join in the Little Athletics fun registration is at www.lavic.com. au. For information on training, how to join or trial, photos, results and updated news, visit the website at yarrarangesathletics.org. au or check us out on Facebook. Run, Jump, Throw…too easy!

· · ·

Zac happy with his medal.

Aborowa 80mH 16.83 (11th); TJ 6.53m · Beau McKinnon 1500mW 8:22.33 (1st); JT · Lanni 17.37m (6th); (21st); HJ 1.28m (1st); DT 18.28m (9th); SP 6.68m (8th); Arizona Peel HJ 1.22m (3rd); G10 Isla van Duuren 70m 13.09 (10th); 200m 42.43 (20th); 1100mW 12:23.55 (7th); DT 11.61m (7th); SP V Zoe Knapman 100m 15.69 (1st); 200m 33.39 (3rd); 400m 77.28 (6th); 800m 2:50.66 (3rd); HJ 1.19m (3rd); Lucy Oettinger 100m 17.42 (10th); 80mH 13.54 (13th); DT 14.84m (3rd); HJ 1.05m (10th); Georgia McKinnon 1100mW 7:06.29 (2nd); DT 15.82m (2nd); SP 5.77m (5th); G09 Hayley Nealon 70m 12.95 (8th); 200m 38.82 (12th); Amelia Sketchley 400m 85.73 (6th); 800m 3:11.66 (3rd); 60mH 12.58 (6th); B17 Bailey van Bert 100m 12.66 (3rd); 200m 26.53 (3rd); 800m 2:13.14 (1st); 1500m 4:42.60 (1st); B15 800m: James Crome-Smith 800m 2:11.46 (1st); 1500m 4:29.89 (1st); TJ 9.12m (3rd); Wilbur Davidson-Tuck DT 23.94m (6th); JT 25.79m (6th); SP 7.56m (4th); B14 Mitchell Pointon 400m 64.19 (9th); 800m 2:19.61 (3rd); 1500m 4:52.65 (5th); TJ 9.30m (6th); JT 24.92m (3rd); B13 100m: Zac McMillan 100m 14.09 (3rd); 200m 29.57 (3rd); 800m 2:39.96 (8th); SP 8.45m (2nd);

· · · · · · · · · ·

B12 Cooper Ewart 200m 33.14 (11th); 400m 72.92 (8th); 800m 2:45.24 (4th); LJ 3.38m (10th); HJ 1.20m (10th); Jakob Knapman DT 17.59m (6th); JT 23.37m (2nd); SP 8.43m (5th); B11 Zack Paternoster 100m 15.83 (12th); 80mH 17.09 (9th); DT 20.90m (5th); JT 13.00m (7th); Bryce Fiedler 100m 16.00 (14th); Ilikimi Tove 400m 72.77 (9th); 800m 2:45.39 (12th); DT 21.64m (3rd); JT 24.22m (1st); SP 7.19m (6th); Dihain Rathnayake 400m 86.41 (12th); LJ 3.27m (10th); SP 5.50m (11th); B10 Kristian Sultana 70m 10.91 (8th); 100m 15.42 (8th); 200m 32.22 (7th); 60mH 11.52 (5th); HJ 1.05m (15th); Xander Sommers 70m 11.00 (9th); 1100mW 7:05.91 (4th); Koby Stephens 100m 14.97 (5th); 200m 30.91 (4th); HJ 1.15m (4th); 200m: Koby Stephens 30.91 (4th); Kristian Sultana 32.22 (7th); Dominic Nealon 3:09.03 (20th); DT 13.43m (9th); Harlem Willis LJ 2.89m (18th); HJ 1.15m (5th); B09 Jesse Pettet 70m 11.51 (3rd); 100m 16.11 (7th); 60mh 11.70 (5th); Evan Kennedy 400m 81.21 (4th); 800m 3:03.10 (6th); LJ 2.91m (12th); The senior team were in action in round 10

· · · · · · · · · · · · ·

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mailcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Ivy Pieper, Lachie Sweet and Ryan Taylor played against Yarra Glen.

Rishabh Chowdhury, Alex Paladino, Ari Marappan and Adam Paladino won the day against Chirnside Park.

Wins all round at home

By Joanna Campe This weeks’ results for Lilydale Tennis Club in the Eastern Region Tennis competition.

Junior Open Doubles (JOD8) v Chirnside Park After round 11 this team was sitting on top of the ladder.

Lilydale was represented by Rishabh Chowdhury, Alex Paladino, Ari Marappan and Adam Paladino.

Lilydale played at home this week against Chirnside Park who are in fourth place on the ladder. Lilydale were in great form and won the day 5 sets to 1 - winning 32 games to Chirnside Park 18.

Result: 6-4, 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-2, 6-1 Junior Development (JDC2) v Yarra Glen After round 11 this team was sitting in third place on the ladder.

Lilydale was represented by Ivy Pieper, Lachie Sweet and Ryan Taylor.

Lilydale played at home this week against Yarra Glen who are sitting just outside the top 4 in sixth place on the ladder. It was a very close match, and it was all tied up at a set each after the first 2 sets. Lilydale came away eventual winners on the day taking the third set 5-3 – winning 13 games to Yarra Glen 11.

Results: 4-4, 4-4, 5-3 Boy singles doubles (BSD2) v Montrose After round 11 this team was sitting in second place on the ladder.

Lilydale was represented by David Halkidis, Noah Burow, James Buckland and Alex Jerin Lilydale played at home against Montrose who are in fourth place on the ladder. Lilydale was too strong and took 6 sets to 2 – winning 41 games to Montrose 29.

Result: 6-0, 7-6, 6-2, 6-4, 6-2, 4-6, 0-6, 6-3 Lilydale Tennis club welcomes all players of any age and ability. For information on how to join Lilydale Tennis Club please visit https:// play.tennis.com.au/lilydaletennisclub For all coaching enquires (Juniors and Adults) please contact Andrew at Pro Touch Tennis Academy https://www.ptta.com.au/ contact

David Halkidis, Noah Burow, James Buckland and Alex Jerin represented Lilydale in the singles and doubles against Montrose.

Pictures: LILYDALE TENNIS CLUB

Eastern seniors pennant Yarra Ranges sports clubs heads to Yering Meadows encouraged to apply Round three of the Eastern Suburbs +55 senior pennant was conducted at Yering Meadows on Friday 17 February.

Temperatures in the mid to high 30’s, well-manicured fairways and fast greens suited players who could position their shots.

The shorter white tee configuration brought the many bunkers into play. Many holes were lost by players going to the beach instead of hitting the greens.

Good play was congratulated by competitors, no hankies or tissues were provided for bad shots.

Jokes were told to groups and no fines were issued for inappropriate language after all this is a sociable competition.

In the gold group Eastwood returned to form, Gardiners Run turned the corner with a very good win over Churchill/Waverley and Heritage continued the good run.

The green group performed differently mailcommunity.com.au

with Churchill/Waverley having a solid win over Gardiners Run. Yering Meadows pressed their home ground advantage to defeat Eastwood and Heritage performed solidly.

Gerry Van Hees, the manager of Churchill/Waverley played against Kevin Ryan and Neil Cooper but was valiant being defeated by both.

The matches slowed towards the end with heat and tight finishes contributing, all players recovered quickly, rehydrating in the club house and enjoying snack food.

Everyone is looking forward to next week at Gardiners Run.

Yarra Ranges sports and recreation clubs are being encouraged to apply for grants to help boost their equipment, skills, and administration expertise.

Member for Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing announced applications had opened for the Labor Government’s latest round of the Sporting Club Grants Program on Thursday 16 February.

“This program will support community sporting clubs to continue to get back on their feet, increase the size and number of teams, and get back into training and competition.

It’s part of our commitment to help people get active and involved and support local community sport,” she said.

“I encourage all local clubs to make an application and take advantage of this funding opportunity.”

The program provides payments of up to $1,000 for new uniforms and equipment, up to $2,000 for training coaches, officials, and volunteers and up to $5,000 to improve club operational effectiveness.

Grassroots clubs and organisations across the Yarra Ranges are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

The Sporting Club Grants Program is part of the Labor Government’s commitment to make community sport accessible and inclusive, stimulate local economies, build sustainable sport and recreation and volunteer opportunities, and increase local participation.

“Sport is the lifeblood of Victorian communities. That’s why we’re backing more clubs to help with uniforms and equipment, plus grants to invest in the future through training for coaches and volunteers,” community sport minister Ros Spence said.

“This is about helping clubs get back in the game so more Victorians can join in the fun and tap into all the sport and career pathways that grassroots community sport offers.”

It’s invested thousands of sporting club grants totalling more than $15.5 million to clubs across the state since 2015. For more information and to apply for Sporting Club Grants Program visit sport.vic.gov.au/grantsand-funding Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

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MAIL 35

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Ph. 0419 462 814 Concrete tanks built correctly will last a lifetime!

Terry Miller from Terry Miller Concrete Tanks has been in the concrete tank building business for nearly 30 years. Being from country Victoria himself, Terry realises the importance of good water storage systems.

Concrete water tanks built correctly will last a lifetime. They keep your water cool, clean and algae free. This is because our tanks have 130mm walls and a 300mm base, and are poured with 40-mpa strength concrete not 25 or 30 mpa. We also use plasticiser to keep up the strength in the tanks instead of water. And after 28 days of curing the strength of the concrete will be between 48 and 52 mpa. And each tank is poured individually on site. These tanks come out white, which is a sign of the strength in the tanks. The MPA is a measure of how much concrete there is as parts per 1000. The walls of the tank are vibrated all around to ensure that there are no air bubbles and that the concrete is compacted down. Terry generally builds tanks in three sizes, 50,000, 105,000 and 120,000 either with a silo (metal) roof, concrete top or open top tanks.

The tanks will not blow away or fall apart, and this is particularly important in areas where there is high wind, or in fire prone districts. In the event of a fire, a large tank (120,000 litres) can supply water back up to the main house. By setting up a petrol powered generator and pumping water up onto the house directly, via a reverse water sprinkler system, you will keep your home cool and wet. Or if need be, you can jump into the tank to keep cool and be protected from flames and radiant heat.

Water is our most important resource, and we cannot have too much of it! So for all your water storage needs when you are thinking of installing your next tank, please call Terry for a quote on 0419 462 814 or 02 6026 7021 or check out our website, www.terrymillerconcretetanks.com.au.

Nearly four years ago, we suffered our own fire here, in Barnawartha, and we were lucky. But it made me realise how important good water storage is. We are in for a long, hot, dry summer, and fire restrictions are in. Having an ample supply of safely stored water is imperative. So why not contact Terry now about your water supply needs, BEFORE, the heat builds up and water scarce. There is nothing more refreshing than your own cool, clear, clean water!

• Buy Direct and Save • Free Quotation • A Sound Investment te r websi Visit ou com.au ct. www.tm

• All tanks are 2.26m in height • All tank walls are 130mm thick • All foundations (tank top and floor) are 300mm thick • Tanks are algae free • Cool in Summer • Won’t blow away

Sizes from 22,000 to 120,000 litres 36 MAIL

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Tuesday, 21 February, 2023

0419 4627115 814 Phone: 0419Phone: 462021 814FAX: PHONE: 0260 267 (02) 6026 Email: info@tmct.com.au Email: cjf57@bigpond.com PO BOX 372 BARNAWARTHA VIC 3688 Email: info@tmct.com.au TL1648715

www.terrymillerconcretetanks.com.au www.terrymillerconcretetanks.com.au Concrete 40 mpa fully vibrated Concrete 40 mpa & &fully vibrated

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