Mail - Lilydale Star Mail - 4th April 2023

Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

Lilydale

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Local groups receive council funding

12-year-old Sophie’s Good Friday appeal contribution

Inclusive musical comes to the Memo

KaBloom festival brightens Silvan

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A Star News Group Publication

Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808

12496493-NG22-21

Plumbing champ

By Mikayla van Loon For one Lilydale local, stumbling onto the trade of plumbing in his mid-20s helped change the course of his life and has just seen him return from the Plumbing Champions in Germany.

Danny Hoekstra, now in his 30s, started his plumbing apprenticeship six years ago, citing it as the best decision he ever made.

Initially chosen to compete in the EU Apprentice Skills Competition in America in 2020 after winning the national competition in Australia, Danny was unfortunately unable to go because of the pandemic.

Instead he was selected to represent Australia in the Plumbing Champions event from three other people who went for the spot.

The World Plumbing Council (WPC) and ISH event hosted in Frankfurt brings together high achieving plumbers from America, Ireland, Canada, Germany, Liechtenstein, Australia, New Zealand and Austria in what was traditionally a skills competition.

But this year, WPC partnered with The International Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Foundation (IWSH) to build and install hygiene facilities at a run down sporting centre.

“They chose to take away the competition element of it and focus more on the charity aspect and the renewable aspects of the industry,” Danny said.

“The competition, usually it’s a big waste of materials, so this year, they just wanted to build something for somebody and we worked more as a team.” Heading out to the Eintracht Frankfurt, Niddahalle complex to do the installation of materials, Danny said, was one of the best experiences.

“It was just like a rundown sports facility, a big complex where like 120 clubs use it and it’s a big deal for that community,” he said.

Not having heard about IWSH and the work they do in remote communities before, Danny said learning and being part of one of its programs has opened his eyes to how he can apply his plumbing knowledge and skills.

Continued page 5

Danny Hoekstra represented Australia at the Plumbing Champions event in Germany.

Picture: SUPPLIED

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IN BRIEF

Private e-scooters will now be legal on Victorian roads from Wednesday April 5.

Picture: ON FILE

Private e-scooter use gets legal nod

By Parker McKenzie Private e-scooters will now be legal on Victorian roads from Wednesday April 5, after the state government announced changes to their use.

Minister for Roads and Safety Melissa Horne announced an extension of an ongoing e-scooter trial in Melbourne and Ballarat, alongside changes to private e-scooter use.

“We know e-scooters are popular with many Victorians, so we’re extending the trial in Victoria under these strict regulations to ensure people travel responsibly and safely,” she

said in a statement.

“Riders should always wear a helmet, stick to the speed limit, only ride on roads under 60km/h and never ride on the footpath or with another person.”

Privately owned scooters can be legally ridden on shared-use paths and roads with a speed limit of up to 60km/h, the rider is over 16 years old and is wearing a helmet, the rider isn’t under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the rider doesn’t exceed 20km/h and aren’t using a mobile phone of carrying a passenger and the scooter isn’t capable of exceeding 25km/h.

The offender is described as being in his late teens, with tanned/olive skin, dark curly hair with very short sides and wearing dark clothing.

Picture: EYEWATCH - YARRA RANGES POLICE SERVICE AREA, FACEBOOK

Police seek information

According to the state government, “escooter share schemes will be able to operate with the approval of local councils.” Yarra Ranges Council currently have no plans to enter an e-scooter rideshare agreement, meaning rentable e-scooters will not be available in the LGA anytime soon.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said the organisation has only just been provided detail about the extension of the Department of Transport and Planning’s e-scooter trial.

“We will now take the time to understand the changes before making any further comment.” the spokesperson said.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding two attempted armed robberies near McAdam Square in Croydon on 14 January 2023.

It is believed an offender, armed with a small knife, approached the victims at Lipscombe Park Reserve on Kirtain Drive at about 1:30pm and made demands for their phones and AirPods.

The victims were not injured in the incident and the offender fled empty-handed.

The offender is described as being in his late teens, with tanned/olive skin, dark curly hair with very short sides and wearing dark clothing.

Investigators have released a composite image of a person who may be able to assist with enquiries.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Senior Constable Hunter on 9871 3039 or alternatively to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 (anonymously if you wish) or submit a confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com.au

Fire danger period lifted Yarra Ranges, Knox and Maroondah residents will all be able to burn off once again from 1am on Tuesday 11 April as the fire danger period will be lifted for these areas.

Regardless of this, residents are asked to be mindful of the conditions as a small burn-off can still get out of control.

You can refer to the CFA brochure ‘Are you burning off safely?’ to ensure your burn remains safe and legal. Take care and make sure you have water available at all times and never leave your burn-off unattended.

Local CFAs can also provide advice on how to safely burn off and how to best prepare yourself and your property for the next fire season.

Before lighting a burn-off, residents are always urged to notify their neighbours and register their burn either online via firepermits. vic.gov.au or by calling the Burn-Off Notification Line on 1800 668 511.

Always check and adhere to your council’s local laws and regulations before burning off.

Montrose Cenotaph is repaired after vandalism Speaking to Star Mail after the vandalism happened, RSL vice president and piper Iain Townsley said it was not the first time a war memorial was defaced in the local community but it was still disheartening.

“They’re sacred places. Their purpose is to serve as a constant reminder of the local people who have died in conflict since the Great War of 1914-18 far from their families and Australia,” he said.

The Mount Evelyn RSL and Montrose Men’s Shed were relieved after recent vandalism at the Montrose War Memorial was repaired just in time for Anzac Day. Bringing in the help of Thomas from Benchtop Chip Repairs and with a donation from Methven Professionals managing director Geoff Earney, the repairs were carried out earlier this week.

The vandalism occurred last month, with members of Mount Evelyn RSL becoming aware on Monday 20 February and was an act described as “mindless”.

The etching in the marble base of the cenotaph was able to be buffed out.

The Montrose War Memorial was repaired after vandalism occurred in February.

Picture: SUPPLIED

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NEWS

Sustaining local papers Local print newspapers like Star Mail may survive the onslaught of online media.

A national report into local news sustainability is challenging the perception that print newspapers are dead.

The report is calling on governments to revise their advertising rules to help local news providers and better target regional and rural communities.

“Local and regional newspapers continue to play a significant role for local communities,“ Star News Group managing director Paul Thomas said.

“They provide a voice, an opportunity for informed public debate and hold the powerful to account.

“Star News Group is proud to continue to provide quality local news with balance and fairness but the conditions are tough.“ The report Media Innovation and the Civic Future of Australia’s Country Press made 22 recommendations.

The finding was the culmination of a threeyear Australian Research Council project, led

by Deakin University.

Deakin partnered with Country Press Australia, the nation’s peak local news lobby, and RMIT University.

Project lead Professor Kristy Hess, of Deakin’s School of Communications and Creative Arts, said the project’s aim was to examine the local media landscape to identify challenges and opportunities for sustainability and innovation.

“We wanted to examine the challenges facing small-town news providers given the commentary in recent years about the crisis they are facing in Australia and across the world,” she said.

This was the first comprehensive report of its kind in Australia and its recommendations provide a blueprint to preserve and grow rural and regional news for future generations.

Country Press Australia president Andrew Manuel said the Media Innovation and the Civic Future of Australia’s Country Press report should be seen as a beginning and not an end.

Mr Manuel said the report highlights the essential role local papers play in serving their communities and delivering civic journalism.

“This is arguably the most comprehensive study of our industry ever undertaken and the report stands as a beacon for government, for policy makers and for the community to take the appropriate and necessary actions to ensure newspapers can continue to play such a vital role,“ he said.

The study began at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The pandemic resulted in the temporary or permanent closure of dozens of local mastheads across Australia and a shift among some to digital-only platforms.

“The first thing we did was conduct a major national survey to find out what people valued about their local mastheads,” Professor Hess said.

“We found people in many regional and rural towns and cities were passionate about their local mastheads but rejected an over-reliance on syndicated content, in print and digital, sourced from neighbouring areas or other parts of the country.”

The research team conducted two main national surveys – one with local news audiences and one with those who do not engage with local news.

There were 35 interviews with Australian news editors and proprietors and seven interpretive focus groups with editors, journalists and advertising managers within the Country Press Australia network.

One key finding was the strain on local mastheads hit with lost revenue from local, state and federal government advertising.

Advertising in recent years has prioritised social media and metropolitan news outlets with a larger digital reach.

“Our research found there is this obsession with digital reach,” Professor Hess said.

“That’s all well and good, but a local masthead, whether in print or online, isn’t designed to reach one million people.

“If we use the digital reach metric as an

indicator as to which news outlets should get government advertising, these independent regional and rural outlets are going to lose out every time.

The report supports a recent Parliamentary Inquiry recommendation that stipulates 20 per cent of all Federal Government advertising expenditure be directed to regional and rural news organisations.

“Communities without a newspaper rarely have a platform that enables them to be fully informed,“ Mr Thomas said.

“They no longer have professionally trained journalists providing balance and seeking out the details.

“They become reliant on social media which has no balance, and most often simply coughs up someone else’s bias.“ Data from the study also showed government funding schemes for local news outlets were often tied to digital innovation.

Funding is often given to buy drones and other technologies.

The report describes a ‘digital shiny things bias’ towards digital innovation at the expense of supporting initiatives that may be most beneficial to rural and regional audiences.

A greater appreciation for place-based public interest journalism and the need for collaboration among publishers were other key findings.

While what local news providers needed was financial support to upgrade print infrastructure or to hire more staff.

Professor Hess said print is not dead for many regional and rural communities.

“We need to remember there is a digital divide in Australia that means some communities still struggle with poor-quality and unreliable Internet connections.

“Some segments of the community, including older citizens, find it difficult to use newer technologies.

“Younger audiences also like the look of a printed newspaper.”

The report also recommends better incentives, including pay, to attract seasoned re-

porters to the regions. Governments are also urged to provide seed funding for journalistled news start-ups to counteract local “news deserts” developing in some parts of Australia.

“Our research shows people in these communities want more local news content, including stories on locals’ achievements, successes and milestones.

“They also want news on local events and more investigative-type pieces.”

Mr Manuel noted that regional newspapers are unique in their ability to give readers an insight into their close community.

“Our members continue to provide the local and civic news that readers crave more than ever, often as the only local media outlet serving a particular region,“ he said.

“Coming out of the pandemic, many publishers have reported a strong revival in their readership, underpinned by a focus on hyperlocal and unique news that has been a common denominator of country papers since their inception.“ The research also found there is more capacity for regional and rural news providers to develop collaborative advocacy and solutionsstyle reporting campaigns that address important rural and regional issues that span multiple communities.

Mr Thomas said the Victorian State Government is very supportive of the industry, ensuring important government communications are “provided to local communities through the local newspapers“.

However he stipulates that this dedication is not reflected in the Federal Government, who place their announcements solely online.

“Government messages can easily be misconstrued online or end up next to inappropriate material,“ he said.

“We call on the Federal Government to ensure that they provide information to local communities across appropriate platforms and commit to the recommendations of this report by Deakin.“ The report was launched at a national event in Melbourne on 23 March.

Danny joins community program at Plumbing Champs From page 1 “They’re doing good things as a plumbing providing foundation to rural communities. They have been around for a few years now but this was my first involvement with them and I will continue to do what I can for them,” Danny said.

“They’re doing a project early next year in India, which I’m planning on going to for myself to help them. I was going to be travelling around that part of the world next year anyway.”

Although the event showed him how skilled labour can benefit people, Danny said it was also a wonderful opportunity to network and meet with some of the biggest

plumbing bodies in the world.

“It gave me a deeper understanding of the industry and I got an opportunity to work around the world out of it and meet people in the industry.

“We did a six hour talk with plumbing leaders from around the world, talking about the future of the industry, such as hydrogen and things, so it was just a cool experience in general.”

Getting to be a part of such a big world event and represent Australia was far from the life Danny was born into but he hopes it can inspire others to take a chance on themselves.

Growing up, semi raised in care, Danny said he had a pretty terrible start in his teen-

age years, often getting into trouble and relying on Centrelink.

“It was a requirement for Centrelink to do something in regards to work, and basically I did a try-a-trade program at Swinburne.

“I found that it was actually probably not a bad idea. So I did one day of each trade as a taster and I chose plumbing because I thought it would be the trade that would teach me the broadest range of skills.

“At the same time it got me off the streets, and it’s a way out for a lot of kids, a lot of disadvantaged kids.”

Having met people from all over the world in the same industry as him, Danny said it became very clear that plumbing is a highly

paid profession everywhere and it can be done anywhere.

“It was interesting to find out that skilled labour is high paying all around the world, it’s an in demand thing, everywhere.

“People don’t know that. Being a skilled trades person can take you around the world, not just if you’re good at it, just in general.

Plumbing gave me something to focus on and kept me out of trouble.

“I was 24, 25 when I started my apprenticeship and I wasn’t the youngest person in the class. I was definitely above the average age, but I wasn’t the youngest person, so it’s for anybody. For kids where school is working out for them, it’s definitely an option.”

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NEWS

Accessing power bonus

By Mikayla Van Loon Accessing the power saving bonus initiative from the State Government has never been more simple with Lilydale based Community Information and Support (CIS) Yarra Ranges offering easy assistance.

CIS Victoria executive officer Kate Wheller said ensuring vulnerable communities received the support they needed was essential to the services the organisation provides.

“Our day to day services are supporting people who are financially and personally in hardship. So it’s really important that within the scope of the work we do, we can offer this kind of support,” she said.

“Energy bills have long been a driver of financial hardship in the communities we work with, so the power saving bonus offers a real incentive for people to have a look at their energy bills to figure out if they’re on the best contracts, move providers if they need to while getting that cash incentive to do so.”

With 31 partner agencies across the sector delivering the $250 power saving bonus, Kate said within the first day 350 people had signed up for the bonus and she expected hundreds of people have since.

Not only do Kate and the team at the CIS Yarra Ranges office in Lilydale hope the bonus can offer some quick relief for people, it can also show them what other supports CIS can provide.

“It’s a really important opportunity for us to have a conversation with someone about their bills, but also more broadly, what’s happening in their life, to look at ways we can support them with other aspects of their daily living as well, so it’s delivering a really practical support,” Kate said.

Volunteers will often start conversations around other offerings like the utility relief grants from the State Government but then also more broadly around income support.

The CIS Yarra Ranges team Jade Harris, chief executive Kate Wheller, Sarah Miller and Zoe Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS encourage people to access the power saving bonus. 325749 “There are already existing supports provided by the State Government which are there to support people with utility hardship and not everyone is aware of utility relief grants or concessions and how often they can apply for those kinds of things,” Kate said.

“It’s really important that those elements are part of the conversation but then it’s that

broader assessment of what is the person’s situation? Are they renting? Are they in sustainable housing? What income do they receive?

Have they got dependent children and/or health issues?

“So looking at their lives more broadly and looking at ways we can provide holistic support to them.”

Coming into winter, Kate said often it’s a case of people deciding whether to “eat or heat” because, as awful as it sounds, many “can’t afford to do both”.

Accessing the power saving bonus, acting branch coordinator Zoe said, is as easy as booking an appointment or walking into the office with a copy of a most recent energy bill.

“People come in and they bring in their electricity bill. Generally we use that to start a broader conversation,” she said.

“But for the actual power saving bonus we photocopy it and Sarah or Jade will put their details through to the government and then they get it either by cheque or in their bank account. So it’s a really simple process for both the clients and ourselves.”

Zoe said the service CIS Yarra Ranges was offering also reduced the “digital divide”.

“People who don’t have access to technology or might not have the digital literacy to apply for it themselves online, we’re also addressing that barrier.”

With the cost of living crisis ongoing, Kate said demand for services has increased beyond what they ever expected and it only appears to be getting worse.

“We’ve seen significant increases in the number of people accessing our services between 50 to 80 per cent increase, which is huge,” Kate said.

“The cost of daily living is really hurting people and we are seeing more clients now who haven’t accessed our services before who are experiencing mortgage stress.”

To seek support from CIS Yarra Ranges, contact the office on 9735 1311 or visit Wednesday, Thursday or Friday between 10am and 3pm at 214 Main Street, Lilydale.

The team will also be holding a community event on 26 April from 10am until noon where people can bring their power bills and enjoy some refreshments.

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Reserves up for funding

By Mikayla van Loon Yarra Ranges Council has put forward applications in the Country Football and Netball funding program to help provide upgrades to two recreation reserves in the shire.

Nominated in this year’s round of grants were Mount Evelyn’s Morrison Reserve and Belgrave’s Recreation Reserve.

The State government’s Sport and Recreation funding program matches council funding dollar for dollar of up to $250,000 per local government area to achieve improvement works at sports facilities.

The council is seeking funds to resurface the netball courts, replace fencing and improve lighting at Morrison Reserve, as well as improve lighting at Belgrave Recreation Reserve.

Councillor Johanna Skelton said wherever there is an opportunity for the council’s capital expenditure budget to be supplemented by funding it is always worth applying for.

“These are both great applications…mostly because they are both in line for council to spend our own money on and they’re very much needed projects,” she said.

Cr Skelton said the upgrades to Morrison Reserve would provide ongoing benefits to the community in Mount Evelyn.

“The Morrison reserve netball court surface is used by a whole bunch of schools nearby so I think that’s fantastic in itself. It’s going to get that midweek use, daytime use,” she said.

“It’s also going to be resurfaced to be multiuse and I’m always looking for those opportunities when the council is spending its money to expand who is using the resource.”

Mount Evelyn Netball Club expects to field 22 teams in the 2023 season, equating to around 200 players.

With the reserve already hosting state of the art facilities for athletics and soccer, upgrades to the asphalted netball courts will complement the rest of the sports offerings.

In Belgrave, as the Lyster ward councillor, Cr Skelton said lighting improvements would be a cost saver to the club’s who use the reserve and for the broader community.

“Belgrave Recreation Reserve, the sports lighting upgrade is so needed, it’s not up to par at the moment and the club is spending a lot of money on lighting,” she said.

“They are going to be very happy if we are successful in getting this money from the State government because it’s going to reduce the running costs for the club and enable them to do night games and some other uses of the space.”

Supporting the motion to approve the two projects being submitted to the State government, Cr David Eastham said the financial

Morrison Reserve’s netball courts are due for an upgrade with Yarra Ranges Council seeking supplementary funding from the State government.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS 213496 assistance the council would receive might allow for other projects to gain extra funds within the budget.

“These are projects that we already had

in our pipeline that we would be spending money on so it allows us to deliver other key projects with that money instead,” he said.

Cr Eastham also agreed there would be “a

range of demographics” who would benefit from these upgrades.

The motion was passed unanimously at the council meeting on Tuesday 28 March.

Council approves four year partnership grants program

By Mikayla van Loon A number of Yarra Ranges organisations have been successful in receiving Yarra Ranges Council’s partnership grants, helping support programs and outreach over four years.

Having received 27 applications for the Connected and Healthy Communities grants, as well as 25 for the Creative Communities grants for the 2023-2027 period, it saw 22 and 18 respectively approved for consecutive yearly payments of varying amounts.

An independent panel made the recommendations, tallying $558,000 for year one and a total of $2.2 million over the four years, an annual increase of $59,500 to better address the needs of the organisations.

“This year we’ve done something that in my memory on council we probably haven’t done before, that the panel had recommended some groups got less than they perhaps needed,” Councillor Fiona McAllister said.

“We’ve increased the funding pool by an additional $60,000 to make sure those groups who need it most are supported.”

Cr McAllister said having looked through the applications, it became clear the grants would be supporting a diverse cross-section mailcommunity.com.au

Celebrate Mooroolbark Festival was just one of the successful creative communities grant recipients. Pictured Mayor Jim Child with Randall Bourchier at the 2022 event. 272944 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS of community groups and not-for-profits.

“I feel our partnership grants and the work we do with so many organisations across the municipality has never been more critical than it is now,” she said.

“We’re talking substantial amounts of money. We’re talking of commitments of over half a million dollars each year to support an incredible range of groups who deliver such incredible benefits for everyone in our community.”

Across the two streams, grants recipients included Eastern Community Legal Centre,

Yarra Valley ECOSS, Mooroolbark Umbrella Group, CIS Yarra Ranges, Outer East Foodshare, Anchor, Holy Fools, Mount Evelyn Township Group, 3MDR, Caladenia Dementia Care, Yarra Valley Singers, The MISFIT Project and Celebrate Mooroolbark.

“Not only is it supporting creative activities, but supporting relief services, legal support, support for the homeless, social connection, township groups, incubation of small businesses, environmental groups, and the list goes on and on,” Cr McAllister said.

“Every corner of our municipality in every walk of life is represented in these incredible groups that really punch above their weight.

“Small amounts of money that we can give, and they’re not tiny but they are small in the scheme of things, delivers such incredible benefit and some respite to the number of volunteers that really bring these groups to life.”

Councillor Andrew Fullagar said this was probably the council’s “premier grant scheme” helping to keep some of the larger partners funded to ensure essential work and events can be carried out. “$560,000 per annum sounds like a lot of money but when you divide that over 40

partners, it’s an average of $14,000 per year,” he said.

“It is a substantial amount of money but when you consider the leverage that we gain, the enormous goodwill and energy, the volunteer commitment providing services and running events the council would never put on otherwise year after year, it’s an absolute bargain.”

Knowing the applicants who were unsuccessful in this round of funding would be disappointed, Cr Fullagar wanted to acknowledge their submissions.

“We are sorry but it doesn’t diminish our respect and admiration for the work that you’ll continue to do,” he said.

For group’s like the Lilydale Street Fair, the news of not receiving the four year funding came as a blow, as organisers now have to source grant money to be able to host the 2023 event. The motion to approve the grant funding, the annual increase and a one off supplementary $20,000 grant to the Dandenong Ranges Music Council was approved unanimously on Tuesday 28 March.

“This is an incredible way to be spending $2 million of our budget over the next four years,” Cr McAllister said.

Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

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NEWS

Teenager dies in accident

By Tyler Wright A teenager was killed and two other boys hospitalised after a car crash in Chirnside Park on Saturday 1 April.

Emergency services were called to reports a car had crashed into three parked vehicles on Edward Road about 2.05am.

The car then set on fire.

Police and witnesses pulled the male driver and two male passengers from the vehicle.

Paramedics worked on the rear passenger, a 16-year-old Montrose boy, but he died at the scene.

The driver, a 16-year-old Chirnside Park boy was taken to hospital where he remains with serious injuries. His front seat passenger, a 16-year-old Mooroolbark boy was taken to hospital where he remains with serious injuries.

Lilydale SES unit controller Shaun Caulfied said young licensed drivers were over-represented in crash statistics.

“Unfortunately, what we had in this situation is not just inexperienced drivers, but an unlicensed driver,“ Mr Caulfield said.

“I’ve personally been to a few crashes over the years involving kids who’ve taken their parents’ cars without permission, without their parents’ knowledge, and come to quite tragic consequences.

“It’s devastating for their families, it’s devastating for their friendship group... these kids are most commonly at school, so there’s a ripple through the entire school community.“ The investigation remains ongoing.

Any witnesses or anyone with dashcam/ CCTV footage or further information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au Coming up to the Easter weekend, Mr Caulfied said he would advise drivers to drive to the conditions and to ensure motorists are not driving affected by drugs or alcohol.

Emergency services were called to Edward Road at around about 2.05am on Saturday 1 April.

“Fatigue is a huge factor because people want to tend to drive long distances and get to their destination sooner to enjoy more holiday

time,“ he said.

“Take a break every two hours in your drive.

Get out of the car, stretch your legs before you

Picture: LILYDALE SES become a statistic.“ For the current provisional lives lost tally, see police.vic.gov.au/road-safety-0

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NEWS

Sophie’s goodwill for kids

By Mikayla van Loon At just 12-years-old Sophie Degenhardt has already made a big contribution to the Good Friday Appeal ever since her own experience in needing the expert care at the Royal Children’s Hospital.

In 2016, when she was five-years-old, Sophie contracted bacterial meningitis, hospitalising her in the intensive care unit for many weeks.

“All of the nursing staff and people were really, really amazing,” Sophie said.

Ever since, she has been raising funds for the Good Friday Appeal, first participating in Run for the Kids in 2017, 2018 and 2019 but more recently by creating and selling handmade cards at the Lilydale Craft and Produce Market.

“It supports kids like me who are in the hospital for a while or not as long or longer. It helps support all those kids,” Sophie said.

For her parents Lucille and Chris, they couldn’t be more proud of her efforts to raise much needed funds for the hospital that saved their daughter’s life.

“The care she received from the nursing staff and the doctors there was absolutely sensational and they really did, quite honestly, save her life,” Chris said.

“Sophie feels a strong sense of wanting to pay them back and do everything she can to thank them and to help other children that potentially fall into the same troubles that Sophie had.

“She’s a very passionate, young lady. She’s very motivated and very self driven. It’s definitely nothing that we’ve pushed her into, these are all her ideas.”

During the Covid pandemic, Sophie turned to her artistic skills to create handmade items and sell them at a stand.

This led to Sophie receiving a Fred Hollows Humanitarian Award in 2021 after she raised $2524.

With the help of her best friend Amelia, this year Sophie has been able to hand paint gift cards and host regular stalls at the monthly Rotary market with the final fundraising market held on Sunday 2 April.

Amelia and Sophie have been selling handmade cards at the Lilydale Craft and Produce market to raise funds for the Good Friday Appeal.

Picture: SUPPLIED “Amelia and I both really like to make things and we found that painting cards was pretty easy for both of us, considering we both love to paint and we’ve found it’s something really fun to do.

“We do a lot of painting with acrylic paints.

[The designs] honestly depend on what we feel like painting, sometimes we paint flowers, or sometimes we just paint cool patterns.”

Not only does card making give the girls a creative outlet but allows them to spend time

together regularly each month.

Aiming to raise close to $2000 for the Good Friday Appeal, Sophie said people have been incredibly positive and supportive about her and Amelia’s efforts.

“Quite a few people have actually bought from us. We were really happy with that. A lot of people were supportive of the Good Friday Appeal and were really happy to be donating to them,” she said.

Although they won’t be fundraising

throughout the year, Sophie and Amelia have plans to continue selling handmade items at the Lilydale Craft and Produce Market.

“We like to see all the different things other people are doing. We really like to talk to other people and share our stories with other people,” Sophie said.

To help Sophie and Amelia reach their $2000 target, donations can be made via www. fundraise.goodfridayappeal.com.au/fundraisers/stand4sophie/gfa

Yarra Valley Smaller Wineries make wishes come true

By Tanya Steele The Yarra Valley Smaller Wineries Association made a donation to the Make-a-Wish Foundation on Thursday 30 March at the Tokar Estate Winery.

Representatives from the association came together to officially present Makea-Wish with the funds they raised at two of their events last year.

Dan Tokar of Tokar Estate was excited and proud to present the money to the Make-aWish foundation for the first time.

“We want to give back to the community as much as possible and show that when we make a pledge we honour it,” Mr Tokar said.

The winemakers have donated to many other community groups in the past but have decided to go with Make-A-Wish this year.

Mr Tokar has a family of his own and has come to appreciate a bigger perspective because of it.

“We decided we want to sort of take a little bit of a unique step across and try something different,” he said.

A Make-a-Wish spokesperson said it was terrific to see the locals come together in support of critically ill kids.

“We are very fortunate to have been part of the Australian community for over 37 years and are always grateful to those who support our important work,” the spokesperson said.

“Every donation raised helps make more wishes possible for the critically ill kids of Australia.“ Yarra Valley Smaller Wineries is a group of almost 20 small wineries spread throughout the Yarra Valley which banded together some years ago.

Murray Lyons, a winemaker from Whismailcommunity.com.au

Murray Lyons ( Whispering Hills Vineyard ), Dan Tokar (Tokar Estate), Ruthie Lazaro (Make a Wish), Justin Hill and Peter Cownley (Bendigo Bank). pering Hills, said their events have always had a theme around community donations.

The Make-A-Wish spokesperson said the

donations went towards the organisation’s mission to fulfil the wishes of every eligible child.

“Right now over 900 kids are on their wish journey and travel and experience wishes are among the most popular,” they said.

Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

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NEWS

Call for driver mentors Yarra Ranges Council is seeking mentor drivers to provide assistance to young learner drivers as part of the TAC L2P Program.

The free program has supported over 330 learners with their L2P hours and helped over 160 young drivers gain their licence.

Now in its 12th year, the L2P Program – Funded by the TAC, managed by the Department of Transport and Planning across the state, and delivered locally by Yarra Ranges Council – matches learner drivers aged 16 to 21 with a fully-licensed volunteer driver and practice vehicle to help them gain the 120 hours behind the wheel needed to apply for a probationary licence.

Graham Hutchins, a mentor with the L2P program for over five years said the benefits of the program go far beyond just learning to drive.

“Working with young people is a real buzz and the biggest buzz of all is helping them to get their license, but it’ also seeing them develop their driving skills and setting them up for being a good and safe driver,” he said.

“For many young people, getting their driver’s license is a rite of passage - it represents a new level of independence and freedom, but learning to drive can also be a daunting and intimidating process, so we’re able to provide them with the guidance and support they need to navigate the learning process and gain the skills and confidence they need to become safe, responsible drivers.”

Johnny, an L2P learner driver, is aiming to get his licence soon after being supported by volunteer driver mentor Graham Hutchins.

“I’ve been working alongside Graham and putting into practice what he teaches me to do, and I’ve now got 61 hours and 40 minutes, which I’m really proud of,” Johnny said.

“For me, I wouldn’t have been able to get these hours without the program and it’s helped me to be able to know what to do and

L2P learner driver Georgina, Mayor Jim Child, driver mentor Graham Hutchins, and L2P learner driver Johnny are calling for more mentors to get involved in the program.

Picture: YARRA RANGES COUNCIL what not to do on the road and made me more confident.”

The L2P program is open to young people in the Yarra Ranges area who have a learner’s permit but do not have access to a car or a licensed driver to supervise them.

Mayor Jim Child said it’s a win/win situa-

tion for our community and encouraged people to apply to become a mentor.

“The L2P Programs is an excellent program with incredibly kind and supportive staff and volunteers, and it provides a unique opportunity for young people to interact with positive adult role models, gain confidence, and move

towards social independence,” Mayor Child said.

“We are always looking for both volunteer mentors and learners to take on the program.”

For more information about the L2P program, or to inquire about becoming a mentor, visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/L2P

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Back to school!

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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.

See page 7 for more back to school excitment.

Back to school!

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

By Jed Lanyon 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

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“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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$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”.

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LILYDALE MITSUBISHI

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

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A worthy brand

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Claire Bremner just before her exhibition opening on 30 March.

Pictures: TANYA STEELE

Vivid dreamscapes launch

By Tanya Steele The new exhibit Deep in the trees by Claire Bremner has launched at YAVA in Healesville and invites people to look closer and be with nature.

It opened on Thursday March 30 and Ms Bremner was happy to be able to hold the exhibit in a physical space.

“The majority of the time I show my work online or I’m on my website or social media and I don’t do a lot of physical shows,” she said.

People can get a better sense of scale and different feel when looking at art in real life.

“This is a really good opportunity to actually have things on the wall in a space and meeting the people is really nice, I look forward to exhibitions for that reason,” said Ms Bremner.

The main theme of Ms Bremner’s work is nature and she wanted to capture the feeling people get when they go for walks and notice things in their surroundings.

“Everything is drawn directly from the environment as far as inspiration goes,” she said.

“My work in general is always inspired by

The exhibition has a natural landscape theme and plays with bold colours. nature and I really, really enjoy landscapes and this particular series is focused a lot on more on the trees in the landscape.”

Ms Bremner’s work is colourful and vibrant, with broad brushstrokes and movement that encourages the viewer’s eye into

depths of the painting.

“I don’t use realistic types of colours, I create them as I go to create a vibrant and semi imaginary dream landscape,” she said.

She hopes people will stop to take in the details and colours in her work and notice differ-

ent aspects in the series.

“Look closer and get drawn into it, have a look at the different colours, the shapes and notice the details that are imaginary or real,” she said.

Her works are combined images painted from scenery all around her home and might remind people of different parts of the hills.

She encourages people to soak in the nature around them when they are out in the world.

“Just look out there and appreciate what is around you and just pay attention to your surroundings and just look at it because it’s beautiful,” she said.

Ms Bremner’s studio is located in Warburton and she has been a full time artist since 2014, prior to that she did photography and other creative forms.

For future work, Ms Bremner plans to keep changing up her style and she often moves between abstract and detailed work.

“I will keep pushing it, it’s this wave of exploring, trying new things and looking for new approaches,” she said.

The exhibit will run from 30 March to 30 April 2023 at YAVA, Healesville.

Aunty Bear and Zaza bring it for the kids at Healesville

By Tanya Steele Bec Matthews and Sarah Ward from Fat Fruit are bringing The Rainbow Tree to The Memo in Healesville on 22 April for an original musical storytelling show with wild imagination.

The show was developed by the duo through Midsumma Festival and Artplay and from its inception the couple wanted it to be made by children for children.

“We applied to create a show that was with and for Rainbow families and we wanted to write songs with the notion of the rainbow tree holding it all together,” Sarah said.

“We wanted to write a show with the words and ideas of children inside it, so this is children talking to children.”

The six month Melbourne lockdown caused some hiccups in the development process and resulted in the stories of The Rainbow Tree being collected through Zoom meetings.

The children used creativity and imagined new worlds while they wrote the songs for the show.

“It ended up being quite a healing way to mailcommunity.com.au

Bec Matthews and Sarah Ward from Fat Fruit.

Picture: SUPPLIED connect with young people, but also for them to have an opportunity to create during lockdown was really important for their mental

health,” Sarah said.

“Lockdown put a stopper in the idea of us all getting together to write it, so instead each of the seven participants wrote one song.”

The children also put forward words and definitions in the writing, which helped shape the final product.

“They participated in talking about what the rainbow tree is, which is dispersed throughout the show,” said Sarah.

“They also helped us come up with terminology that other rainbow families can use to describe their experience, for example, a dipling, which is a sibling with the same donor.”

On stage the Super Queer Aunties, Aunty Bear and Zaza, performed by Bec and Sarah are there for the kids.

“We take being an Aunty very, very seriously and we’re here for them whenever they need us,” Sarah said.

The show is inclusive and children are invited to engage with it however they need to, sitting or standing.

Sarah encourages the children to talk to the artists while they are performing as it is all part of the fun.

“We will answer you if you talk to us,” she said.

It features projected visual images created

by Jolyon James of the Arena Theatre Company with voice overs and drawings from the children who contributed to the show.

The show has something for all and Sarah it is also a lot of fun.

“It’s forty five minutes of silliness, there’s a fart machine, live music, singing and rock and roll dancing,” she said.

The show will be Auslan interpreted by Kirri Dangerfield to ensure it is accessible to all children.

Fat Fruit hopes to expand their show onto television eventually to grow their audience base, and Sarah said it is important for the public to have exposure to it.

“We want to get onto television, so that we instantly have an audience of people who can trust in the work that we deliver, and can come and see it and have their lives enriched,” she said.

The show is recommended to children between the ages of two and seven and will be at The Memo on Saturday 22 April for two shows at 11am and 3pm.

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NEWS

First small business expo Over 40 small businesses participated in Yarra Ranges Council’s first Small Business Expo held at Skyhigh on Wednesday 29 March.

This was the first year the event had been held by the council with the event focusing on facilitating networking opportunities for local small business operators, as well as showcasing local products and services to the community.

“This event was really exciting and great to meet new people and businesses and see the community in one room. There was no competition, it was all collaboration,” Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child said.

Businesses sold a variety of items such as candles, clothing and accessories, and other small businesses held workshops to promote their services and provide and offer advice and support about starting a small business.

Kapi Art Space Managing director, Heather Bradbury said it was a great event and opened the door to connecting with other business.

“We have a business not far from SkyHigh so it’s really great to have an event like this where we can connect with people across the hills and swap our business information and what we offer.”

Because we offer trauma support through painting classes and workshops, I’ve made some connections with other businesses and people today where we can cross pollinate and better help people in the local area.”

Councillor Johanna Skelton (right) was loving talking with people.

Yarra Ranges Council hosted its first small business expo on Wednesday 29 March.

A range of products were on display for people to test and try.

Pictures: YARRA RANGES COUNCIL

Networking and connection was the aim of the expo.

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NEWS

Dahlias 326372

Paul Tesselaar with Cleomes (Spider Lily) 326372

Flowers brighten Silvan

By Tyler Wright Fields of bright flowers have once again taken over Silvan’s Tesselaar farm as part of this year’s KaBloom festival, which kicked off on Saturday 25 March.

Around three million flowers - including marigolds, bright blue salvia and snapdragons - will accompany a troop of circus performers and fairy storytellers will fill the autumn festivities until 25 April.

Tesselaar KaBloom welcomed 70,000 visitors in 2022, with managing director Paul Tesselaar expecting even more in 2023.

“There’s more flowers spread out further over the farm, second food court and toilet facilities and parking so that we can accommodate the expected larger crowds,” Mr Tesselaar said.

“Leading into the school holidays and Easter, we’re expecting some pretty large crowds this year.”

Organisers have also introduced new patterns in the farm’s paddock, with a newlyintroduced block of “spectacular” flowering miniature dahlias.

“Hopefully they delight the crowds,” Mr Tesselaar said.

Hula hoopers, contortionists, stool walkers, acrobats, jugglers will perform during the school holidays along with circus workshops, drumming workshops, and the usual tractor ride around the flower fields.

Easter rabbit hunts, the flower crate maze, garden games, obstacle courses, face painting and the fairy shop are also set to entertain families.

“We have our mythical characters, a troop of circus performers on poles five metres in the air, and they’re bending and swaying at seemingly impossible angles to entertain the crowd,” Mr Tesselaar said.

There are 100,000 people expected to make the trip to the Dandenong Ranges for the festival, Mr Tesselaar said, with limited tickets available to ensure a relaxing day amongst the flowers.

“One item we do want to stress, because it’s quite a cultural change for us and our festival, is for people to secure their tickets online,” he said.

“My other hot tip would be when they visit is to bring some sturdy shoes that they don’t mind getting a little bit dirty and a plastic bag and a spare pair of shoes to change into when they’re leaving.”

Tesselaar’s doors are open from 10am to 5pm daily for the duration of the KaBloom Festival.

To choose what activities best suit you, and to book accordingly, visit kabloom.com.au/ mailcommunity.com.au

Diana and Justine enjoying the flower fields.

326372

Rebecca as a Fire Bird in the gift shop. 326372

Paul Tesselaar with the Bonfire (Salvia splendent) and Victoria Falls (Salvia farinacea). 326372 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Paul Tesselaar with Cleomes (Spider Lily) 326372 Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

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MAIL 13

OPINION

The disservice of invasive species The invasive species, plants and animals, are doing a real disservice to our wonderful forests and compromising our ecosystems.

There are some 1000 invasive weeds on public land competing with Indigenous species. They are competing for sunlight, they are competing for space and they are competing for nutrients.

Following the recent rains, blackberries have run rampant, taking hold on many roadsides, native forests, parks and gardens.

Our rivers and creeks from Little Yarra River to Steels Creek and everywhere in between, must be protected from the infestation by noxious weeds which are creating a haven for foxes and rabbits.

I have seen neglected blackberry bushes three and four metres high, thick, and deep in some areas, creating corridors and stretching for acres. While landholders conduct regular

The state of

affairs Cindy McLeish MP Member for Eildon spraying, not enough is being done by government agencies to tackle the issue, and this needs to change.

Holly is also causing considerable grief, particularly around the walking trails of Maroondah Reservoir Park, which I walked recently.

After a concerned local raised the issue with me, I inspected the holly growth at Maroondah

Reservoir Park and can attest to the damage it is causing around the walking trails.

It is spreading rapidly, invading bushland and preventing native flora from taking hold.

In some places, trees are over two metres high with thick roots. At this size, the tree roots are too strong to pull out by hand so must be cut and poisoned to properly remove the weed. It is no easy task.

In a bid to prevent the spread of these introduced weeds, I called on the Minister in Parliament to take action.

Several years ago, Parks Victoria staff worked to tackle this issue and made very good in roads.

Parks Victoria again need support to undertake spraying and removal works to eradicate these stubborn weeds before they become too difficult and we lose our unique native flora.

CARTOON

Lots on offer Kemp’s curtain call 1812 Theatre The 1812 Theatre holds a variety of short season events throughout the year. Refer to the website for event details and dates, www.1812theatre.com.au Spoken Word Intimate evenings featuring works by local poets and actors.

Live Music Sessions.

The Sounds of Silence - Buster Keaton in The Cameraman. Live band accompanying silent classics to recreate the silent movie experience from the 1920s.

Board Shorts 29023 - Short Play Festival - A program of short plays featuring works from talented local playwrights.

Short Shorts presented by Centrestage Youth Theatre. Short plays featuring the talents of young writers and directors.

Eltham Little Theatre Responsible Serving of Alcohol Training This course is being offered to current ELT volunteer members for free, on the condition that they commit top Front of House duties throughout the year.

Past members (not new) may also renew their membership and enrol with the above condition. The training is open to the public at a cost of $60.

The course runs for four hours.

Venue: Eltham Performing Arts Centre 1693 Main Rd, Research Bookings: www.elthamlittletheatre. com.au CPP Theatre presents Sense and Sensibility A play by Kate Hamill, based on the novel by Jane Austen.

A season of the much-loved Jane Austen classic Sense and Sensibility! Tickets now on sale! This whimsical and amusing play rollicks about the English countryside following the fortunes and misfortunes of the Dashwood sisters, as they navigate their way through life and love, accompanied by a colourful cast of characters. In this production by Kate Hamill (Pride and Prejudice, Vanity Fair, Little Women), Jane Austen’s classic novel gets a theatrical re-imagining of hysterical proportions. It’s Sense and Sensibility as you know it, but with an energy and pace not previously seen.

Opening Night: Friday 14 April 8pm Season: April 14 – April 22.

Bookings: 0450 803 856 between 1pm and 3pm.

Venue: Performing Arts Centre, Boronia K – 12 Collège Albert (park at Rangeview Rs) Boronia.

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Writers Fesitval will be earlier, smaller but still punchy The 2023 Melbourne Writers Festival will take place on May 4-7.

Some of the best Australian and international storytellers will join local readers in a wide range of presentations and workshops centred around the theme I’ve Been Away for a While.

We have all been away for a while from oncefamiliar relationships, routines and realities.

Festival organisers are still feeling and responding to the economic impact of the past few years, and have to cope with venue availabilities across Melbourne. Hence this year’s program is more condensed – but “it still packs a punch”.

Two of the most exciting events are presented by beloved musician Paul Kelly, who will sing and recite poems that have delighted and inspired his life, and by celebrated actor Sam Neill, who will launch his memoir, Did I Ever Tell You This?

Other acclaimed Australian authors include Stan Grant, who will explore Australia’s path to 14 MAIL

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PASSION FOR PROSE WITH CHRISTINE SUN become a republic, and Ellen van Neerven, who, via her new book Personal Score, will discuss sport, culture and identity.

Meanwhile, at the boldly-named event Frontier Fictions, Paul Daley, Fiona McFarlane and Tony Birch will share their approaches to writing Australia’s colonial past.

Memoirs and biographies are forever popular, with appearances by Australian authors Andre Dao, Nam Le, Heather Mitchell, Bri-

gitta Olubas, Heather Rose, Grace Tame, Amy Thunig and Maria Tumarkin to be expected – just to name a few. They will be joined by British author Bernardine Evaristo, the first Black woman to win the Booker Prize with her novel Girl, Woman, Other. Evaristo will present her fierce memoir Manifesto: On Never Giving Up. Other international visitors include American literary and cultural expert Sarah Churchwell, bestselling American author Lev Grossman and Irish author Claire Keegan, and American food writer and chef Alison Roman.

Particularly noteworthy is Sri Lankan author Shehan Karunatilaka, whose novel The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida won the 2022 Booker Prize.

For those readers in the suburbs, Pip Williams will present her new novel The Bookbinder of Jericho at Geelong Library & Heritage Centre, while Richard Fidler will discuss his latest historical non-fiction The Book of roads and Kingdoms at Vision Australia Li-

brary in Kooyong.

Then there is Jane Harper’s endearing protagonist Aaron Falk, who will be farewelled in Exiles at Bunjil Place Theatre in Narre Warren.

Finally, as praised by Liane Moriarty and Annabel Crabb, two debut Australian novels worth exploring are Tracey Lien’s All That’s Left Unsaid and Nina Wan’s The Albatross. At the event Labours of Love, the authors will share their insight into themes such as family, love, duty and identity.

Also, with Scarlett O’Hara and Annie the orphan in mind, this reviewer is intrigued by the event Like There’s No Tomorrow, where two American authors, Emma Straub and Gabrielle Zevin, will be discussing their novels This Time Tomorrow and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, respectively.

While tomorrow is another day, always a day away, the Festival’s 20 per cent early bird discount will end at 11:59pm, Thursday 6 April. Better book your tickets today! mailcommunity.com.au

Checking your smoke alarms can be crucial in an emergency situation.

Pictures: ON FILE

Check smoke alarms now With the end of daylight savings last weekend, Victorian fire services want people to take the opportunity to check their smoke alarms and ensure they are in good working condition.

Only working smoke alarms save lives, and that is the message Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) are telling all Victorians.

To check your smoke alarm, press ‘test’ and wait for the beeping sound, then each month continue to test, vacuum, and dust your alarm to remove any particles that may affect its performance.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said it is essential that families are conducting monthly testing of their smoke alarms to keep their loved ones safe.

“Without a working smoke alarm in all living and sleeping areas of your house, you may not wake if there is a fire,” Chief Officer Heffernan said.

“We know that in the last 10 years, CFA have responded to more than 14,000 residential fires that have seen 490 casualties. We want to see that number drop significantly.

“The best way to keep your family safe is to install interconnected smoke alarms, so that when any alarm activates, all smoke alarms will sound, allowing you to evacuate early.

“If you live in a house with more than one level, it’s best to install a smoke alarm on each of those levels. “We recommend the use of smoke alarms powered by a 10-year lithium battery to ensure their longevity.”

Fire Rescue Victoria recommends smoke alarms be replaced with interconnected alarms in all sleeping areas, living spaces, and hallways.

FRV Acting Deputy Commissioner Community Safety Gavin Rooney said it’s critical to test your smoke alarms every month and dust or vacuum them yearly as well.

“Smoke alarms should be replaced or changed every 10 years. The end of daylight saving is a great time to replace your smoke alarms,” he said.

When checking, installing, or replacing your smoke alarms, CFA and FRV recommend: Only working smoke alarms save lives.

The use of smoke alarms powered by a 10year lithium battery.

Smoke alarms must be located between each

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mailcommunity.com.au

The CFA and FRV are urging people to check their smoke alarms. bedroom area and the rest of the house.

alarms should be installed in every · Smoke bedroom and living area. alarms should be installed on the · Smoke ceiling at least 30cm from the wall, or in-

· · · · · ·

stalled on the wall at least 30cm from the ceiling to avoid dead air space Smoke alarms should be interconnected, so that when any alarm activates, all smoke alarms will sound.

Smoke alarms should be tested monthly by pressing the test button on the alarm and waiting for the test alarm to sound.

Smoke alarms should be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or dusted at least once a year to remove particles that will affect smoke alarm performance.

Replaceable batteries in a smoke alarm need to be changed yearly.

Smoke alarms, including those attached to mains power, should be replaced every 10 years.

For more information visit the CFA website and FRV website.

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

Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

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12539754-AV11-22

NEWS

MAIL 15

ADULT • Up to 8mm long • Reddish-brown body • Distinctive yellow markings • Narrow ‘waist’ between the thorax (the middle section of the body, between the head and the abdomen, with the legs and wings) and the abdomen • Transparent wings • Female has an obvious ‘ovipositer’ ‘sting’

EGGS • Usually not visible

LARVAE • 3 stages or ‘instars’ • Up to 10mm • White body • Difficult to distinguish from other fruit fly larvae

PUPAE • Brown shell • Usually in the ground (not seen)

LOOK OUT FOR • Puncture wounds • Rotting near wounds • Larvae in fruit

12595562-AV13-23

• Adult flies

16 MAIL

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Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

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Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

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MAIL 17

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 127

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

3

2

7 4

8 1 4

5

9 3 8 5 1 3 9

6 1 1 3 2 8 9

7 5

1

8

9 9

2 4 6

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

7 8 13 16 17 18 21 22 23 26

Diaries (8) Old stringed instrument (4) Corridor (10) Anglo-saxon king, – the Great (6) Miscreant, malefactor (8) Inverted (8) Cheating on a spouse (9) From the menu (1,2,5) Convey from here to there (8) Travelling bag (8) Type of finch (6) Hose (6) Outer parts of loaves (6) Bitter quarrel (4)

Person who looks after children (6) Warnings (6)

1

6 medium

7

Surgical instrument (7) Tableland (7) Reference book of Roget (9) Mock assault (5) Dining (6) Table of days (8) Clear river bed (6) Dispense, allot (4) Skulk (4) Association (6) Ponder (8) Long-distance racehorse (6) Latin (5) Users (9) Manors (7) Garments (7)

DOWN

3 3 7

3 4 5 6

ACROSS 1 5 9

No. 127

3 4 7 5 2 6

2

DECODER

No. 127

1 3 4 7

9 7 6 2

1 9 6

6 7 8 9 2 9 3

7 hard

1 3

4

5

6

8

9

10 11 12 13

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

C X 15

16

17

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24

25

26

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

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13

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

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

C

A

Today’s Aim: 6 words: Good 9 words: Very good

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

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

13 words: Excellent

hard

7

3 LETTERS ADS BEE DEW DIE EGO ERA ERR EYE FLU FOE INK IRE ITS LAP LEE LYE MEW NEE NON ONE SON TRY WAD WAY

J Q S N P E H T BW I F D

medium

2

14

easy

1

U V Y R KOGA Z L MC X

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

WORDFIT

N

Y

I

L L

Y

C

4 LETTERS BEES BOOS DILL DOES ERAS FORT KISS LASS PANS PAWS RODE SACK TAGS TRAP

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

5 LETTERS ADORE

( $ 6 ( /

ALIBI ALLOT ARENA AROMA BASIC BASIL BONED BUFFS CYSTS DEATH DOILY DRESS EASEL EERIE ENDER ENEMA ERASE ERODE FLEES GRIPS HOSES

ally, call, clan, clay, cynical, CYNICALLY, inlay, lacy, laic, lain, lilac, lily, nail

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

No. 127

IGLOO KNIFE LLAMA LOINS OVERS PASTE PETAL PIANO PLANE RARER RATES RESET RUMPS SEEDS SLEWS SPATS STEEP STEER STRIP TAMED TENET

TEPEE TONES TREES TWEET ULTRA USERS VIPER

7 LETTERS POISONS RENEWAL REPLETE REREADS RESPOND TENDONS

6 LETTERS ADEPTS ADULTS CASINO STRINE

8 LETTERS EMPTIEST INTENSER REDEFINE TERMINAL

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

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

5

QUICK CROSSWORD

07-04-23

William Matthews Funerals 24 HOUR SERVICE - ALL AREAS

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

18 MAIL

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Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

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FAMILY HOME ON ALMOST AN ACRE THIS lovingly updated family home is absolutely move in ready. With a high attention to detail, unwind and relax with the modern colour palette and soft fresh carpet under your feet.

The cleverly designed home offers a master bedroom with ensuite at one end, central open plan living and dining area, through to 4 bedrooms and a second living/ entertaining area.

The master bedroom is spacious with ceiling fan, large built in robe and ensuite.

There is an office/bedroom with a pretty bay window to enjoy the treed and private view. The house then opens up with a great entertaining space. The kitchen is equipped with stainless steel dishwasher, electric oven and gas stove top. The detailed ceiling fans in the dining area and lounge area add character as do the hard wood floor boards that flow through this section. There is a lovely sitting area adjacent to the kitchen/ dining area to soak in the sunshine. Then continue to the first lounge room, complete with wood fire heater for cosy nights in.

There is also ducted heating throughout for year round comfort. Then there is a great family bathroom, complete with shower and

bath, and separate toilet. Then through to the surprise entertaining/second lounge room. This large space is perfect for entertaining with a built in bar and direct access to the front decking.

With all mains services connected for added convenience, there is also an external generator plug.

This property has it all so don’t miss out call to arrange a private inspection today.

Please note: All property details shown are correct at time of publishing. Some properties may have been sold in the preceding 24 hours and we recommend that you confirm open for inspection times with the listing agent direct or the listing office. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 42 Mountain Road, COCKATOO Description: 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,080,000 - $1,180,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Aaron Day 0407 365 994 or Brennan Mileto 0422 996 451, BELL REAL ESTATE, EMERALD

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

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Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

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MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE

19

HOME FOCUS

PERFECT COUNTRY LIFESTYLE IDEALLY located only a stones throw from Healesville’s football oval, swimming pool and Queens Park, you will discover this country style home, nestled on almost 1 acre of beautifully manicured gardens stretching all the way back to Graceburn Creek.

Built over 2 levels, this home offers something for everyone. Walking into the home, there is definitely a country feel from the dado panelling and the central staircase which leads upstairs to the huge private parents retreat, showcasing an ensuite, generous walk in robe and private balcony.

For the budding chef in the family there is a great size well-appointed kitchen with

plenty of cupboards, quality appliances and built in pantry. Accommodating the rest of the family are the two bedrooms downstairs which have built in robes and a bright family bathroom, complete with a clawfoot bath.

Ensuring you year-round comfort, there are multiple split systems & ceiling fans around the home plus gas ducted heating and a cosy wood heater for the cooler times.

Stepping outside you will find a huge, undercover entertaining area to accommodate the largest of family gatherings or just to sit and enjoy the view down through the garden to the beautiful manicured lawns abutting Graceburn Creek.

There is a great wood shed down the

back of the property, however there is a fantastic shed & workshop at the back of the home with a generous double carport attached to the shed. There is even an additional space that is ideal for the teenagers to have their friends over and chill out, or just storage.

Completing this great package are solar panels to help with the electricity bills and the water tank to keep the fenced vegie garden well-watered. If this home sounds like the lifestyle you have been searching for, then arrange your private inspection today.

Viewings are strictly by appointment. Please call to book your viewing. There will No Open Homes for this property. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 25 Farnham Road, HEALESVILLE Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 6 garage Price: $1,080,000 - $1,180,000 Inspect: Private Appointment Only Contact: Gary Lucas 0448 623 030, MARK GUNTHER FIRST NATIONAL REAL ESTATE

5962 3030

Mark Gunther W NE ICE PR

W NE ICE PR

Healesville 1/105 Donnellys Weir Road

5 A 4 B 12 C

Healesville 2/105 Donnellys Weir Road

This lifestyle property on approx 32 acres is perfect for the extended family or extra accommodation & potential income stream. The main homestead has 2 bedrooms plus an adjoining entertaining area & teenager’s retreat as well as multiple outbuildings with a fully self-contained studio, a 2nd family cottage, dairy, machinery sheds & cattle yards.

FOR SALE

With approx. 25 acres of prime land available with some breathtaking views across the surrounding mountains & the sprawling Healesville township.

Offering great infrastructure by way of some substantial shedding, complete with mezzanine floor, power, plus 3 phase power is also available, there is lots of potential.

$1,650,000 Inspect

By Appointment or OFI Agent Gary Lucas 0407 595 113

R T DE AC N U TR N CO

UNDER CONTRACT! Prime piece of land of approx. 12.5 acres of native bushland and clear flat land located across the road from Donnellys Creek.

THINKING OF SELLING? Contact Gary Lucas for an up to date valuation today & have your property SOLD this Autumn!

MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE

FOR SALE $1,100,000 Inspect

By Appointment Agent Gary Lucas 0407 595 113

R FO LE SA

Healesville Lot 3/105 Donnellys Weir Rd

20

markgunther.com.au 189 Maroondah Highway, Healesville

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Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

UNDER CONTRACT Agent Gary Lucas 0407 595 113

Narbethong 556 Marysville Road

6A 3B 4C

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

com.au

$795,000 - $870,000 Inspect

By Appointment or OFI Agent Gary Lucas 0407 595 113

mailcommunity.com.au

P 5968 6222 311-313 Main Street Emerald

23 Pakenham Road, Cockatoo

$550,000 - $600,000

86 Beaconsfield-Emerald Road, Emerald

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

Private cockatoo Gem!

Modern living with country charm on approx. 7 acres, with fantastic shedding!

Updated & move in ready, 3 bedroom family home within moments of Cockatoo amenities. With established vegetable gardens & a large chicken run awaiting. There is a covered front patio with brick paving, before you enter the single storey home. With open plan kitchen, dining & living. This home offers new flooring and is light & bright with a neutral colour palette & year around comfort provided with gas ducted heating & a consol heater in the dining room. There is a large master bedroom with BIRs & 2 further good sized rooms, one with BIRs & one without. There is a family bathroom with double vanities & an updated shower. As well as a separate toilet & laundry. To the rear of the home is a spacious mudroom. Externally there is a covered patio with brick paving & a garden shed, as well as the expansive private garden & chicken coop.

With 4 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms spread across 2 storey living. The covered breezeway leads to an open plan kitchen, dining, loungeroom with vaulted ceiling, split system AC, ceiling fan, & wood fire that doubles as a water heater. The kitchen has stainless steel appliances, with a butlers pantry & a second oven. The upstairs contains the master bedroom with BIRs, a family bathroom, a bedroom, laundry, & a study nook/play room. Downstairs are 2 bedrooms, a family bathroom, & a separate toilet, & a home theatre room. With a 6 car garage with concreted floor, split system AC, power & an adjoined office space with kitchenette & split system AC. There are flat grassed areas & natural bush, & a second huge shed with concreted floor & power & a second driveway entrance. This home has solar panels, solar hot water system, sprinkler system, & security system.

Aaron Day M 0407 365 994

Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451

Aaron Day M 0407 365 994

A

3

42 Mountain Road, Cockatoo

1

B

C

4

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

56 Main Street, Gembrook

Beautifully updated 5 bedroom family home on almost an acre!

A

2

B 10 C

$480,000 - $520,000

Rare Commercial / Potential B&B Opportunity (STCA) in this Gorgeous ‘Storybook’ Building with Main Street Exposure!

The home has a master bedroom with ensuite at one end, central open plan living & dining area, through to 4 bedrooms & a second living/entertaining area. The master bedroom is spacious with ceiling fan, large BIR & ensuite. There is an office/bedroom & then the house opens up with a great entertaining space. The first lounge room has a wood fire heater for cosy nights in & hard wood flooring. There is ducted heating throughout for year round comfort. There is a family bathroom, & separate toilet. Then through to the surprise entertaining/second lounge room with built in bar & direct access to the front decking. Externally is a DLUG with direct house access. There are established above ground vegetable gardens, orchard area of fruit trees & a wood shed & garden shed. With all mains services connected & an external generator plug.

Aaron Day M 0407 365 994

Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451

This property is bursting with opportunities! It offers a gorgeous and still practical design, with a location that ensures your business will be the first business noticed as you enter the heart of Gembrook. The building is a Storybrook design with beautiful details such as stone cladding, arch windows, wooden shutters, and vaulted ceilings. There are two large rooms downstairs as well as a spacious toilet with room for a bathroom conversion, a kitchenette, and a storage/utility room.

Upstairs is one large room with vaulted ceilings and views across Gembrook. Located close to Puffing Billy Railway, there is a high volume of car and foot traffic past this brilliant location, perfect as a B&B, hair salon, home based business, beauty salon or any small business you desire.

Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451

Samantha Scott M 0438 680 032

5

A

2

B 2 C

B 1 C

1

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MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE

21

HOME FOCUS

“BELMORE PARK” - EQUESTRIAN PROPERTY A TRANQUIL boutique 7.61 acre equestrian property packed with features including a 3 bedroom country style renovated farmhouse with large undercover alfresco area, 60 x 20m all-weather flood lit arena with a Browns Arena Mix surface, 16m round yard, 10 paddocks with interconnecting gates, reticulated water, purpose built loose boxes and equine mesh fencing with electric standoff, 4 brand new stables with cross ties, 3 day yards, hay shed, feed room, separate tie up area, extensive agistor facilities, huge 18x15m machinery/workshop and a host of other amenities including direct rear access to a lovely quiet hacking trail.

This beautifully presented lifestyle property affords the upmost privacy behind a magnificent full length hedge with separate keypad gated entrances for both the residence and the equestrian/workshop facilities with CCTV spanning across the entire property.

“Belmore Park” has been carefully designed over the years and represents a perfect opportunity to continue operating a profitable full care agistment business and/ or tradie workshop operations from home.

The charming 3 bedroom 1970’s recently modernised home sits in its own private garden allotment with views over the Kinglake Ranges and features a wonderfully appointed spacious modern kitchen with windows opening to a large undercover timber floored alfresco. The kitchen includes a 900mm Westinghouse oven with built in airfryer, dishwasher, Caesarstone benchtops and walk-in pantry.

The living areas feature practical hybrid

wood flooring and built in wood heater, Weatherwall heating and cooling A/C, gas ducted heating as well as evaporative cooling. The spacious modern bathroom is complimented by a powder room off the laundry. Garden views abound from every room, including the 3 bedrooms with built-

in robes and quality carpets and window furnishings including full block out screens.

Services include mains water, power, mains gas, and a second metered water supply from the adjoining Melbourne Water O’Shannassy Aqueduct.

“Belmore Park” really does represent the

perfect equestrian/business/lifestyle package and is rarely found within such a quiet Yarra Valley location on a sealed road, conveniently located just minutes to schools, shops and transport, and only 15 minutes to Lilydale train station and 50 minutes to Melbourne CBD. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 45 Lewis Road, WANDIN NORTH Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 4 garage Price: FOR SALE BY EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Inspect: By appointment Contact: Gerard Kennan 0413 139 231, RT EDGAR YARRA VALLEY

45 Lewis Road, Wandin North A tranquil boutique 7.61 acre equestrian property packed with features including a 3 bedroom country style renovated farmhouse with large undercover alfresco area, 60 x 20m all-weather flood lit arena with a Browns Arena Mix surface, 16m round yard, 10 paddocks with interconnecting gates, reticulated water, purpose built loose boxes and equine mesh fencing with electric standoff, 4 brand new stables with cross ties, 3 day yards, hay shed, feed room, separate tie up area, extensive agistor facilities, huge 18x15m machinery/workshop and a host of other amenities including direct rear access to a lovely quiet hacking trail.

The charming 3 bedroom 1970’s recently modernised home sits in its own private garden allotment with views over the Kinglake Ranges and features a wonderfully appointed spacious modern kitchen with windows opening to a large undercover timber floored alfresco. The kitchen includes a 900mm Westinghouse oven with built in airfryer, dishwasher, Caesarstone benchtops and walk-in pantry.

“Belmore Park” really does represent the perfect equestrian/business/ lifestyle package and is rarely found within such a quiet Yarra Valley location on a sealed road, conveniently located just minutes to schools, shops and transport, and only 15 minutes to Lilydale train station and 50 minutes to Melbourne CBD. Call Gerard Kennan 0413 139 231

Outstanding Service | Exceptional Results | Your Local Real Estate Experts “THE OAKS” 830-832 MAROONDAH HIGHWAY, COLDSTREAM 10.5 ACRES, 4.25 HECTARES (APPROX.) GOLDEN MILE LOCATION The ultimate lifestyle opportunity in this Blue Chip Yarra Valley location. Prized position directly opposite Domaine Chandon winery and set amidst other prestigious wineries such as Oakridge, Yeringberg, Levantine Hill, Rochford, Warramunda, Huberts, Coombe, etc.

“The Oaks” offers a rare opportunity to build your new dream home and create a park like garden and rock pool (STCA) with magnificent views overlooking the Yarra Valley vineyards.

Ideally suited for leisurely lifestyle activities, enjoy the tranquillity and stunning vistas of Australia’s premier and fast-growing wine region.

Gently rising with a desirable northern orientation, the land is cleared to pasture and offers a 100-metre-long driveway lined with beautiful mature oak trees leading to the existing home site which is further enhanced by a lovely pond/water feature.

Situated only 10 minutes to Lilydale Station, 10 minutes to Healesville and approx. 1 hour to Melbourne.

Services include mains power and mains water.

Call Gerard Kennan 0413 139 231

Shop 11, 343-347 Main Street Lilydale, VIC 3140 22

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Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

com.au

12596897-RR14-23

This rare opportunity within the Golden Mile of the Yarra Valley allows the successful purchaser to capitalise on the multiple attractions of a World Class Tourist Destination.

9727 5300 mailcommunity.com.au

P 5966 2530

P 5967 1277

3407 Warburton Highway, Warburton

15 Victoria Street, Yarra Junction

$740,000 - $810,000

2457 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction

225 Big Pats Creek Rd, Big Pats Creek

$950,000 - $1,045,000

Family living with space and convenience

Welcome to Paradise

Positioned in a leafy and colorful location this very neat home could be just the one to change your lifestyle and to enjoy the lush surrounds and picturesque outlook. The home is superbly presented inside and out and offers 3 bedrooms all with built in robes and an ensuite and walk in robe in the main bedroom, spacious lounge/living areas with a family size meals area with space for the growing family. Covered entertaining area ideally positioned to sit back relax and enjoy the ever changing Yarra Valley scenery. The whole family will love the outdoors with over 2600sqm to explore and enjoy with lush lawns, established gardens, trees and shrubs there is loads of space for everyone. Large carport and ample car accommodation plus a good size garden shed/workshop, an excellent property and situated just a short stroll to local schools, shops and transport.

Set on 1 & 1/2 acres in the most picturesque setting is this beautifully renovated home. Surrounded by majestic trees and with a spring fed permanent creek running through. The recent renovation means everything in the home is brand new and never used. This includes new carpets in the four large bedrooms and all new fixtures in the two well equipped bathrooms. There’s two large living areas, one on each level, both with beautiful new hardwood flooring. The brand new kitchen is well appointed with stainless steel appliances including large 5 burner stove, rangehood and dishwasher.

Filtered mountain views can be enjoyed from the full length deck upstairs with access from the master bedroom and living area. Extras include air conditioning in both living areas, slow combustion wood heater with transfer kit and probably the only property I’ve seen with its own mine!

David Carroll M 0419 539 320 Inspection: Sat 11 -11.30am

3

19 Whitegum Drive, East Warburton

A

2

Tony Fanfulla M 0417 870 513 Inspection: Sat 1 -1.30pm

B 2 C

$540,000 - $590,000

Samantha Price M 0438 795 190

4

A

2

17 Sussex Street, Warburton

B 4 C

$675,000

The Fisherman’s Cottage

Botanical hideaway right near the O’Shannassy!

Set on a fantastic allotment of approx. 1/2 acre, is this neat as a pin 2 bedroom “move in ready” cottage that just needs you and your furniture! The modern kitchen offers plenty of cupboards and bench space, a light and bright bathroom is fresh as a daisy, and with split system heating and cooling, new carpets, and paint, you really don’t need to do anything more. A modern palette is the back drop for this country retreat where you can enjoy the mountain views on your rear deck, spread out on the land, invite your friends to come and pitch a tent, grab the fishing rods and walk down to the nearby Yarra river! A horseshoe driveway gives you great vehicle access, you have a carport and plenty of space to park extra cars, trailers etc. This is a perfect starter or a great weekender for a lucky new owner to enjoy.

Where privacy is offered, fresh air is enjoyed and a lovely comfortable home is nestled into beautiful gardens on over 1200m2, this home offers a prized package. From the timber kitchen with stone bench tops, to the delicious snuggly carpet that you just want to lie down on, the large wrap around deck to sit on take in the views, to the beautiful gardens and hidden workshop, there is so much to love and enjoy. Offering 3 or 4 bedrooms or extra living rooms, spacious bathroom, open plan living, meals kitchen, split system heating and cooling, carport and plenty of off street parking. If you are a hiker, bike rider and nature lover, then this home is position perfect with a 1 minute walk to an entrance to the O’Shannassy Aqueduct trail, where you can wander to your hearts content, and you are only minutes’ drive to the centre of town for a coffee and a stroll around the shops.

Leah Bannerman M 0448 924 266 Inspection: Sat 2.00 - 2.30pm

Samantha Price M 0438 795 190

2

A

1

Tony Fanfulla M 0419 870 513 Inspection: Sat 12 -12.30pm

B 1 C

Samantha Price M 0438 795 190

3

A

1

B 1 C

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Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

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MAIL PROPERTY GUIDE

23

PROPERTY NEWS

RANGES REAL ESTATE AGENCY REAPS GENERAL EXCELLENCE AND MARKETING AWARDS RANGES First National Real Estate was recognised for outstanding achievement at the national network’s General Excellence and Marketing Awards, held at Grand Hyatt Melbourne on 18 March 2023.

The awards recognise the achievements of First National’s Victorian and Tasmanian agents throughout 2022, with winners now competing for national General Excellence and Marketing Awards, which will be announced at the network’s annual convention in Hobart this May. First National, principal, Mick Dolphin, says it was his team’s honour to receive 2023 General Excellence and Marketing Awards.

‘My team’s hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence have not gone unnoticed. I commend them on their exceptional performance, particularly given the unprecedented challenges we have all faced in recent times. Their success reflects not only their individual talent and expertise but also their resilience and adaptability.

They’ve shown what is possible when we push ourselves to be our best,’ Mick Dolphin said.

At the awards presentation, Ranges First National received the following Award: · #9 First National Office in Victoria · Key staff members were also recognised for their individual performances: · Mick Dolphin received the Diamond Sales award & #5 Sales Agent for the 2022 year. · Jan Brewster received the Gold Sales award. · Grant Skipsey received the Gold Sales award

24

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· Amy Carson received the platinum award & Elite (top 15 in Victoria) for her work in rentals.

Mick Dolphin said the First National General Excellence and Marketing Awards are an important event as they as they encourage First National’s agents to aspire to an ongoing process of performance improvement that benefits customers. ●

Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

com.au

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Jan Brewster - Gold Sales Award Winner

Grant Skipsey - Gold Sales Award Winner

Mick Dolphin - Diamond Sales Award Winner & #5 Sales Agent for 2022 year

Ranges First National - #9 First National office in Victoria

Amy Carson - Platinum award Holly Rasmussen - Rotary Club of Emerald & & Elite (top 15 in Victoria) for District Pride of Workmanship Award 2023.

For exemplary service and for diplaying her work in rentals. outstanding qualities in attitude, work ethic, dedication and commitment.

12597597-ET14-23

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HOME FOCUS

FANTASTIC FAMILY HOME THIS Fabulous 5-bedroom rendered brick residence is the perfect family home and has a charming Mediterranean flavor inside and out. Superbly located on a corner block of a quiet, leafy, and highly soughtafter street between Upwey town center and Glenfern Valley Bushland Reserve, the house is within walking distance to Birdsland Reserve/Lysterfield, 1000-steps, local primary schools, and Upwey High School, trains to the city and the shops, gym/ wellbeing center, restaurants and cafes of the town. Located on a bus route, the house also has a strong, friendly, and supportive community in the immediate neighborhood.

This characterful house has been creatively extended over the years to contain multiple interior and exterior living areas. There are superb versatile outdoor entertaining areas on all sides of the residence, including a spacious sheltered outdoor decking area with built-in gas heating and offering a splendid swimming pool nestling among established tropical vegetation.

The light-filled home has a large modern

kitchen equipped with a Smeg double oven and an extensive living/dining area with a beautiful open fire to ensure you can be cozy during those cold winter nights.

The master bedroom with a modernized ensuite bathroom has its own balcony with views over Lysterfield, and a second large bathroom features Italian stucco plastered walls and a built-in steam shower to relax after a stressfull day or for your wellbeing.

All the bedrooms have picturesque garden outlooks and built-in robes. A laundry room, sunroom, and extra toilet are welcome additions and there are many storage cupboards and space throughout the house.

The house is on split levels providing privacy to family members and guests when required and features a downstairs rumpus with fitted surround sound stereo cinema projection equipment, a large office or reading space, and a gym – providing a great get-away area for the parents or kids alike.

There is a mix of ducted and gas heating in all the rooms of the home and it also contains a splendid storage room adjoining a large garage with a roller door. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 5 Griffiths Road, UPWEY Description: 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,190,000 - $1,290,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Brad Conder 0422 639 115, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 26

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Real Estate you can trust!

We ’ r e h e r e t o h e l p FOR SALE

18 Maskells Hill Road, SELBY

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

YOUR CHARACTER HOME WITH SHEDDING GALORE!

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FOR SALE

$780,000 - $820,000

68 Morris Road, UPWEY LEVEL BLOCK, LOVELY HOME, LIFESTYLE LOCATION

3A1B4C

With an abundance of character throughout, this spacious, charming four bedroom, Hills home is elegant, timeless and exactly what you have been searching for. Perfectly presented both inside and out and offering a versatile floorplan that is suitable for any family’s needs, this property has it all.

This rare 987sqm (approx.) level allotment is ideally situated for a family-friendly lifestyle.

Home to a beautifully presented residence within walking distance of Dandenong Ranges Childcare Centre, Upwey South Primary School, Upwey High School, Upwey Station, pristine parklands, and thriving local cafés and shopping, this is an exclusive offering in an exceptional locale.

Sharyn Chandler

Brad Conder

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

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

FOR LEASE

$55,000 per annum plus GST

142 Main Street, MONBULK

PRIME POSITION – MAXIMUM CORNER EXPOSURE – BRAND NEW Perfectly positioned in the heart of Monbulk’s thriving shopping village, this brand new commercial property offers an outstanding opportunity to a wide range of possible uses (STCA) (already approved for a food and beverage premises). There is plenty of natural light that shines through from the floor to ceiling windows and gleaming, easy to maintain polished concrete floors that run throughout, providing a modern space with maximum exposure for your business. At the very top of the Main Street with excellent road visibility, parking and foot traffic this is prime corner frontage for your signage/ marketing space.

Glenn Chandler M 0418 410 689 | E glenn@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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27

HOME FOCUS

“BUNDALEER” - A PRIVATE PARADISE THIS stunning 57-acre (approx.) property situated at the foot of Mt Sugarloaf offers a unique opportunity to own a beautiful dwelling nestled amongst predominantly native bushland and forest. This Hedger Construction built home features a rustic charm with its exterior adorned with MacQuarie Stone and completed in December 2009.

The interior boasts a spacious open plan living area with soaring ceilings, including lounge, dining, and kitchen, perfect for entertaining guests. The lounge includes a freestanding log wood fireplace and a split system reverse cycle to keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. The kitchen is well-appointed with a large kitchen island, modern appliances, and a walk-in pantry. Leading from this great family and entertaining space, through double sliding doors, is a super-sized family room which also has a study nook tucked away. From the lounge or dining area, step out onto the paved veranda or courtyard and take in the serene bushland surrounds.

The home includes three spacious bedrooms; the master bedroom features a double BIR and an ensuite. The second and third bedrooms offer BIR’s and share a bathroom. The laundry offers additional bench space for craft or office work, and there is ample storage space with a double cupboard in the central hallway. This dwelling is double glazed throughout, features solar hot water and solar panels, and has over 64,000 litres of water storage.

The property has a double garage, plus single garage with a high clearance carport for 2 vehicles, and a garden tool shed. The garden area surrounding the house is fully fenced, and there is also a dam on the property. Take a 10 - 15 minute walk to the top boundary and enjoy the spectacular views.

Contact us today to arrange a viewing and seize the chance to own your dream property. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 661 South Cathedral Lane, BUXTON Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 5 garage Price: $1,180,000 - $1,220,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Jane Nunn phone: 0432 375 940, email: jane@integrityrealestate.com.au, INTEGRITY REAL ESTATE 28

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NO ONE KNOWS THE AREA BETTER With over 75 years combined experience, Integrity's agents have the most thorough knowledge of your local market.

Combine this with an established network of three offices across the Yarra Valley, Kinglake Ranges and surrounds, the exposure Integrity offers will maximise your sale result.

Contact our team for a free appraisal today | (03) 5962 5753

661 South Cathedral Lane, Buxton

$1,180,000-$1,220,000

FOR SALE 2

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26 Wallaby Way, Badger Creek

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

FOR SALE

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$650,000-$675,000

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26 Dorothy Street, Healesville

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NEWS

Platypus young thriving

By Mikayla van Loon In a combined effort of scientists, biologists and conservationists, evidence of platypus young thriving in the Olinda Creek in Lilydale was found last month.

The joint surveillance project, led by Melbourne Water, saw it partner with the Australian Platypus Conservancy (APC) and Ecology Australia to assess the health of the waterway.

Heading out on the night of Thursday 9 March, a trapping survey led to the discovery of a healthy juvenile male platypus.

A Melbourne Water spokesperson said the study of Olinda Creek was part of the broader monitoring of waterways to keep count of platypus and measure their age, gender, size and condition.

“Melbourne Water is monitoring the health of platypus in waterways across the Greater Melbourne region,” the spokesperson said.

“The discovery of the juvenile male platypus in Olinda Creek is a positive sign that this waterway supports these iconic species.”

Concern had been raised over the platypus population in the creek due to recent flooding that may have impacted breeding.

“It was feared that flooding along this creek last spring may have disrupted the breeding season so finding evidence of successful reproduction was a great outcome,” the APC posted to social media after the survey.

The Melbourne Water spokesperson said this survey would contribute to the organisation’s understanding of the movement, resilience and individual health of platypus.

“Olinda Creek is known to have a platypus population that we continue to monitor as part of Melbourne Water’s commitment to waterway management and protecting ecological values,” they said.

Melbourne Water has a commitment to supporting nine key areas to ensure the health of a waterway, including fish, platypus, frogs, birds,

A survey of Olinda Creek in Lilydale found a healthy and thriving juvenile platypus. 324107 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Conservationists and scientists were worried about the effect of recent flooding on the breeding of platypus in Lilydale. 324107

macroinvertebrates, vegetation, amenity, community connection – with each other and nature and recreation.

only the creek but the creatures and people who live in and around it is essential to the ongoing environmental benefit of the Yarra Ranges.

As a sub-catchment of the Yarra River, which used to act as an industrial waste and sewage disposal in the 1970s, ensuring the health of not

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We are looking for a full time Commercial Industrial Property Manager. You will be the primary contact for commercial industrial property management enquiries, supported by our highly regarded commercial industrial administration team and leadership group.

The role includes the below but not limited to: • Landlord and tenant liaison • Approving, arranging, and recording maintenance • Routine inspections • Rental reviews • Lease renewal negotiations • Rent payment supervision An Agents Representative Certificate is a requirement, and we will support you if you are in the process of completing the certificate.

Some experience in either commercial industrial or residential property management would be an advantage.

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SPORT

Home run at an end United lose It was a night to forget from Lilydale Montrose United, with both the firsts and the reserves suffering heavy defeats against Templestowe Wolves on Friday 31 March at Keith Hume Fraser Reserve.

In the first team game, Lilydale Montrose United defended resolutely for 25 minutes, before conceding three goals in a short space of time to head into the break 3-0 down.

Another three goals in the second half for Templestowe Wolves went unanswered, resulting in a final score of 6-0 against a strong side.

In the reserves, Templestowe put six past LMU in the first half, before an improved second-half performance saw Alex Whiting pull one back. The final score was a heavy 9-1 defeat.

After a break for Easter, Lilydale Montrose United will hit the road for three consecutive away games, the first against St Kevins Old Boys SC on Saturday 15 April.

Lilydale Montrose United’s Thirds also suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of Mooroolbark in the Bayside and Vic Soccer South/East Division One, in an 8-1 home loss.

LMU will look to build back over the short break.

By Peter Stephenson It was round three of State 2 South-East at Esther Park on Saturday.

Barkers (fifth ) hosted Knox City (second ), hoping to bounce back from a 1-2 loss at Peninsula Strikers, while Knox was flying, having begun with two wins.

This was a special day for the evergreen Brett Tronconi, who, 22 years after his debut, became only the third Barker to reach 250 games.

Reality of course, has no regard for such occasions.

After a goalless first half, Knox took the lead in the 69th minute when, from a throwin on the left, the ball was crossed low and ran through to Aaron Porcaro, who steered the ball home from close range. This woke Barkers up, and four minutes later, the ball was bouncing around the Knox penalty area when it fell to Steve Nittoli, whose accurate looping volley went beyond the Knox keeper Rei Ishida to equalise at 1-1.

With the game deep into stoppage time, Knox sent the ball in from the left.

Barkers headed clear, but a player lurking on the right collected the loose ball and crossed back in for Ray Markley to steer the ball in to break Barkers’ hearts.

With the last kick of the game, a Barkers’ free kick came into the Knox box, and Sam Klepac seemed to be manhandled to the ground, but the referee blew the final whistle, and Barkers had lost their first league game at home for almost two years. Full time: Mooroolbark 1-2 Knox City.

In the early game, the reserves lost 0-1 and are still looking for their first win.

On Friday night, men’s over 35s hosted Chelsea, losing 1-7 with a goal from Victor Inglese.

On Sunday afternoon, the men’s thirds visited Lilydale Montrose and had a day out. Riley Cubitt scored five goals, and Gareth Somers, Kyle Furssedonn and Luke Champion netted one each as Barkers thrashed their neighbours, 8-1.

Brett Tronconi leads the Barkers out for his 250th game. Picture: MOOROOLBARK SOCCER CLUB Next for Barkers is the fourth round of the Australia Cup. Having heroically disposed of State 2 side Malvern City in round three, they face a lo-

cal derby on Thursday night, when they meet State 4 side Ringwood City, in the first meeting between the sides for 23 years.

See you down the Kennel!

Lilydale-Montrose United suffered a humbling defeat to Templestowe Wolves.

Picture: BRAD DYER

Eastern Suburbs +55 Senior Pennant Finals results

By David Waters Eastwood Golf Club hosted this years’ final and the Golf gods heard our calls for ministrations as we had no wind or rain, only damp feet.

Several weeks of preparation were undone in the darkness of the early morning start.

Miners’ lamps, torches and flood lights were asked for to no avail.

The hundred and twenty golfers meandered in all directions not always finding their allocated tees, even with such chaos the games got underway.

Groups of four hit off as twos and threes and steady progress was made with only a few holdups.

The mix of green and gold group members achieved the social interaction desired as they don’t normally play together.

The Stableford team challenge ran in conjunction with the match play event and the team challenge saw three individuals score to their handicap.

Lionel Richard 49 and Angelo Gugleilmi 37 from Heritage green and Gary Dunkinson, 36 from Yering Meadows.

Two others scored 35 points, with the rest rans.

Eastwood gold with 254 points won the team challenge over Heritage green with 252 points.

They also had a dig at their green team who had 233 points, which was not good enough.

Yering Meadows teams scored in 240’s, Churchill/Waverley teams were in the 232’s, Box Hill and Eastern gold 220’s and the last three had 209.

Many good tee shots were undone by disastrous bunker play.

Three putting was on display frequently as shown by the multitude of individual scores between 28 and 31.

The match play final was interesting and 32 MAIL

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Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

Paul Mulhlan accepting the team challenge trophy.

Joe Sykes (left) and Peter Hall share the match play trophy. unusual. It was played between Box Hill green and Heritage gold, these teams were clearly the best in their groups and were very evenly matched.

After 18 holes each team had three wins and two halves.

The fightback by Brian Eddison to square with Ron Sankey in the last two holes had Ron shaking his head in disbelief.

A similar feeling by Wayne Reddaway when Colin Looker came back from 3 down to tie on the last.

With time constraints on presentations, and preparation time for players the unusual decision was taken to call the result a tie.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Both team managers agreed to the unusual decision as can be seen in the presentation photo.

Another season of great camaraderie and sportsmanship has concluded with friends made and tales told.

Lunch and drinks consumed, the catering and bar staff contributed to the enjoyment of the day.

Team managers from each club did a great job ensuring the season was a success.

Congratulations to all winners.

Happy golfing and good health till we meet again.

Colin Baker driving for home on the 14th tee. mailcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Croquet win tight games

By John Thomson This week the Lilydale section 1 team travelled to Monash to take on the second Monash team after having played Monash’s first team last week.

The first game, the doubles was a very tight game. Lilydale’s team of Murray Howlett and Glenn Crook were locked in a tight battle with the more experienced Monash team, the game going hoop for hoop before Lilydale set up well at the 13th hoop and was able to run the hoop and win the game.

In the first of the singles games Lilydale’s Glenn Crook was playing well but the better credentialed Monash player was able to just run a couple of crucial hoops and get away to a win.

In the next singles game Murray Howlett of Lilydale got off to a flying start and never looked back.

At the break, the scores were Lilydale 2 games 19 hoops to Monash 1 game 17 hoops.

The first singles after the break saw Murray Howlett again play very well, the game was close all the way but Murray was able to take a couple of chances that came his way and eventually came away with the win.

Glenn Crook played in the final singles and again the game was tight but in the end the Monash player prevailed.

The final score for the day, Lilydale 3 games 31 hoops to Monash 2 games 29 hoops, marking Lilydale’s first win in section 1.

The Lilydale section 2 team hosted Ivanhoe this week, the day started in wet drizzly conditions but cleared as the day went on. With Lilydale’s captain Alan Jones away this week, it left Craig McCracken and John Thomson to play all the games.

In the doubles, Lilydale got off to a flying start and never let the Ivanhoe team get into the game.

In the first of the singles, the Ivanhoe player was determined to make amends for the loss in the doubles and won the first two hoops and, at the end, that was the difference.

In the next singles, Lilydale’s Craig McCracken was playing superbly and kept roqueting his opponent’s balls away and not letting his opponent get into the game.

In the reverse singles Craig again was playing a superb game and did not give his opponent a look in.

Although Lilydale had won the day the Ivanhoe player was not going to just lay down in the last of the singles games. John Thomson of Lilydale got off to a good start but the Ivanhoe player fought back putting pressure back on John but in the end he was able to hang on,

Alan Jones in action.

First-gamer Mike Gilsenan running a hoop. the final scores for the day, Lilydale, 4 games 33 hoops to Ivanhoe, 1 game 18 hoops.

On Thursday, Lilydale hosted Mornington Croquet Club at Ringwood as Lilydale only has one court.

This season Lilydale has a new member of its handicap team, Mike Gilsenan. Mike has only been playing socially at the club but has been improving all the time and has now stepped up to play in competitions.

The first game was a singles game and Lilydale’s Craig McCracken played. This game was tight all the way through with both players going hoop for hoop, the 13th hoop was extreme-

Pictures: SUPPLIED ly hard fought but finally Craig to his chance and ran the hoop to take out the game.

Next game was a double and Mike Gilsenan for his first game teamed up with the very experienced Murray Howlett. Lilydale got off to a very good start and was up by four hoops before Sandringham had won a hoop.

Mike under the guidance of Murray was playing a very steady game and had a great feel around the hoops and Lilydale went on to have a comfortable win.

In the next singles game, Murray Howlett was giving away three extra strokes to his opponent and that made this a very tight game, and

once again, after six hoops, the scores were even. Fortunately for Lilydale, Murray was able to set up his first ball in a good hoop running position and win the game.

In the next doubles, the regular duo of Alan Jones and Craig McCracken teamed up for Lilydale, but the Sandringham pair got away to a good start and were 4 hoops to 1 up early in the game, Alan and Craig started to work themselves back into the game and eventually were able to tie the game up and then were able to take their chance and win.

In the last singles game for the day, Alan Jones played and once more this was a battle royale with both players up at different stages of the game before it was all level after 12 hoops.

Unfortunately, this time Lilydale’s luck had run out and Mornington took the points this time.

The last game was a double and Craig McCracken paired up with Lilydale’s new team member Mike Gilsenan.

Craig’s experience was helping Mike and the two of them played a very steady game and win. The final scores for the match were Lilydale 5 games 41 hoops to Mornington 1 game 32 hoops.

Although Mornington only won one game, four of the games went to 7 hoops to 6 with Lilydale winning three of these tight games, so the final score does not reflect how close the match really was.

Yarra Ranges Athletes compete with the nation’s best

By Jamie Strudley Yarra Ranges Athletics club athletes were part of a star-studded Australian Track and Field Championships held in Brisbane last week.

Australia’s best athletes were competing to earn selection for major global championships later in the year.

First up on Thursday afternoon was Sarah Ebbels in the Women’s U20 Hammer throw.

Sarah threw the 4kg hammer a staggering 35.91m for a new PB and club record finishing 17th.

Later on Thursday evening Ash Almond was part of a large field in the Open Men’s Javelin. Ash had a very good series of throws with a best of 43.91m and an excellent 13th place finish.

Friday was the turn of Olivia Twining in the Open Women’s 3000m Steeple. In very warm, humid conditions, Olivia ran a great race to finish ninth in a time of 11.05.13, just outside her PB and club record.

Saturday was time for Joseph Johnston and Rori Jones to compete.

Joseph was part of a very competitive Para Open 100m field, running 13.32 in his heat just missing a new PB. Later in the day, Rori competed in the Women’s U20 400m Hurdles running a fanmailcommunity.com.au

tastic race, fading at the end to a record 72.38 seconds.

Sunday was a family fun day at a warm, windy QSAC athletics track.

Harry Norman was part of a very even Open Mens 5000m race. After a solid start to the race, Harry drifted in the latter stages to finish 18th in 15.09.74. While disappointed with the result Harry and the rest of the team should be very proud of their performances against the best athletes in Australia.

Everyone now has an opportunity to draw breath and clean their shoes before the start of cross-country season in a few weeks.

Before then club athletes Zoe Clarke and Brigette Rice will represent Victoria at the Australian Junior Track and Field Championships for U13 to U18 athletes.

Training continues for all club members on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5.30pm with the emphasis changing to preparing for cross country. Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability.

If you, or someone you know, want to join in the Little Athletics fun registration is at 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!

Ash Almond competing in the Open Mens Javelin.

Picture: YARRA RANGES ATHLETICS Tuesday, 4 April, 2023

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