Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 16th May 2023

Council votes to streamline process for storm damage

Inspiring passion

By Parker McKenzie

Inspiro Health, a healthcare organisation in the Yarra Ranges, handed out its 2023 Tertiary Health Scholarship Awards in Belgrave on Thursday 11 May, with students receiving a total of $22,500 towards accredited health courses.

Inspiro CEO Sue Sestan said when she first arrived at the organisation, she was taken aback by the scholarship program.

“As a healthcare organisation that has been in existence for over 25 years now, we believe that we should be giving back to the community for the services that we need in the future,” she said.

“Everybody knows there is a workforce shortage, so the idea of this is really to encourage young people to take up that option of study or if they’ve already made up their minds, to support it and help see them through their studies.”

This year’s individual awards were renamed in honour of long-serving members of the Yarra Ranges healthcare community Hamish Russell and Stephen Potter.

Mr Russell said the scholarship started through funding raised by the local Lilydale community for medical equipment for the hospital before it became a for-profit business.

“We talked about a number of things, and the one that we talked about that they accepted was when I suggested perhaps you could fund a scholarship for people in the Yarra Ranges who are studying in the health field,” he said.

“Nearly $200,000 now has been given by Inspiro for these scholarships, with between three and four scholarships given every year now since 2000.”

Alannah Finger and Jaimee Cook each received the participation award of $2,500, while Sarah Oliver received the $7,500 Stephen Potter Award and Derek Villaceran received the $10,000 Hamish Russell Award.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said Inspiro

does an amazing job offering services alongside the scholarships each year.

“I know how passionate they are as well. And we see them in and out of our building and they’ve just got this such strong collaborative relationship with our organisation,” he said.

“It’s also a testament to young people in the room who are studying these are the sorts of relationships you can for being involved in the community.”

Inspiro is a Yarra Ranges founded not-forprofit, offering a range of healthcare services like physiotherapy, podiatry, dental, and NDIS to sexual health.

Zoe Eggleton, a previous award recipient and Tertiary Healthcare Scholarship Ambassador, said she used the money she received from Inspiro towards initiatives run by the Melbourne University Physiotherapy Student Society.

“It’s nice to be able to use the money to put towards the community as well as myself,” she said.

“You feel part of the family which is just so lovely and a representation of the wider Yarra Valley community as well.”

Inspiro has offices in Lilydale and Belgrave, and more information can be found about the organisation, its scholarships and its services at inspiro.org.au

Zoe Eggleton (Tertiary Health Scholarship Ambassador), Kim Griffiths (Inspiro Board Director), Sarah Oliver, Hamish Russell (Chair of Consumer Advisory Group), Derek Villaceran, Stephen Potter, Jaimee Cook and Sue Seston (Inspiro CEO). Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Keep your recycling loose.

IN BRIEF

Council streamline for storm process

By Tyler Wright

Families in the Yarra Ranges could have the rebuild of their homes damaged or destroyed in the June 2021 storm streamlined, with Yarra Ranges Council proposing an amendment to the Erosion Management Overlay provisions in the planning scheme.

The amendment would see the tolerable risk to house damage increased to moderate, rather than the existing provision requiring an assessment of low to very low risk.

After the storm event, the council received $300,000 in grant funding under the National Recovery and Resilience Agency’s Preparing Australian Communities Program - Local, to review the EMO planning scheme provisions, with an expert geotechnical consulting funding the current EMO schedule should be streamlined.

Natalie and Lee Guest are an example of a family unable to rebuild due to planning provisions, with their Kalorama deemed a moderate landslip risk after it was destroyed in the 9 June 2021 storm. The planning scheme amendment may allow them to proceed with their plans to rebuild.

“So many of us still experiencing the daily struggles with all types of issues created by the storm,” Natalie Guest said at the council meeting on Tuesday 9 May. We thank the geotechnical experts involved in the latest reporting for more relevant information has been col-

lated for this report which greatly affects our properties and the whole Hills region. We recognise this is a very important step to my family getting home, and we look forward to receiving council’s continued support and advocacy throughout the rest of this process until my family are back home.”

Councillors voted unanimously at the meeting to seek authorisation from the Minister for Planning to prepare and exhibit an amendment to the planning scheme consistent with Australian guidelines; namely the AGS 2007. StreetonWard Andrew Fullagar said the existing EMO applies to 100 squared kilometres of the Yarra Ranges, with more properties in the Dandenong Ranges affected than elsewhere in the shire.

“The AGS 2007 has been adopted by some other councils in the state already to provide exemptions for minor or essential works,” Cr Fullagar said. “It allows council to exempt applications and differentiate between subdivisions, new works, and better informed assessments generally. There’s increased opportunities to allow development or redevelopment or rebuilds at the moment that is quite complicated and daunting. In the future, there’ll be a review of the mapping and we’re using LIDAR [high-resolution 3D scanning of topography] which will make it much better informed decision.”

Chandler Ward Councillor David Eastham said he was looking forward to seeing the positive impact the amendment will have on families within the municipality.

“This is bringing things up to what is currently accepted as the Australian standards,” Cr Eastham said.

BillanookWard CouncillorTim Heenan said rebuilding homes has been an “ongoing process of stress and anxiety” for residents that either lost their homes or experienced severe damage after the storm . “I have really hated the fact that our hands have been tied at council under the red tape of certain planning restrictions that we’ve had in relation to these people going forward at a much, much earlier date, and it’s gone on for so long,” Cr Heenan said.

The motion was carried unanimously.

Tim Neville Arboretum gets makeover

By Parker McKenzie

The Tim Neville Arboretum is getting a makeover with a new playspace within the reserve, and Knox City Council is asking for feedback from the local community before finalising the plans.

Constructed in 1988 as the major project for the City of Knox’s Bicentenary, the 11acre reserve was renamed the Tim Neville Arboretum after the Local Government Area’s long-serving Chief Executive.

Knox City Council said the Arboretum is a popular and multipurpose reserve in Ferntree Gully.

“We are improving the playspace within the reserve to ensure it meets the needs of the community now and into the future,” the council said.

“Thank you to all participants who provided feedback during the first round of community consultation about what you’d like to see included in the new playspace design.”

Some of the features being proposed for

the new playspace include a dragon themed water play area, a new sandpit with water features, a large slide, a quad bay swing set, a new drawbridge, multiple interactive play activities and additional picnic seating.

Knox City Council said it is dedicated to creating“an all-inclusive playspace where all children, no matter their ability, age, cultural and social background, can play together side-by-side and where parents, grandpar-

ents and carers feel welcome too.”

“Following the motto of ‘Can I get there?’ ‘Can I play?’ and ‘Can I stay?’ the proposed design addresses these considerations, aiming to make the playspace accessible at all times from arrival at the carpark, accessing play equipment to using the public facilities.” the council said.

The reserve also features a lake and wetlands system, boardwalk crossings, picnic tables, BBQs, gazebos, an amphitheatre and Knox’s war memorial.

To share feedback on the plans, residents can attend a drop-in session, complete an online survey or contact the council using email or mail.

Two drop-in sessions will be held at the Playground (98 Dorset Road, Ferntree Gully) on:

· Friday 12 May, 2.30pm to 4pm and

· Saturday 13 May, 9.30am to 11am.

More information and the interactive map of the playspace concept design can be found at haveyoursay.knox.vic.gov.au/timneville-playspace-upgrade

Ferntree Gully teen arrested after road rage incident

An 18-year-old from Ferntree Gully has been arrested and charged with affray after an alleged road rage incident in Malvern on Tuesday 2 May.

Police said a man was riding on an electric scooter near the Normanby Road underpass at 4.30pm, when a silver Volkswagen Jetta sedan followed the rider before “brandishing weapons.”

The men allegedly threw a bottle at the rider, who managed to flee. The two men returned to the car and drove away in the aftermath.

The 18-year-old was arrested and bailed and will appear at Ringwood Magistrate’s Court on 2 June.

Police said investigations are ongoing. Aura Vale Lake Park closure Menzies Creek’s AuraVale Lake Park was closed in April after an inspection of the wastewater system at Henley Picnic Area, according to Parks Victoria District Manager Georgia Kerr.

“The system no longer meets Victorian Government standards and poses a health risk to park visitors,” Ms Kerr said.

“We know how valued the park is to visitors and the community and we are working on a solution as quickly as possible.”

Alternative parks in the area include Lysterfield and the Cardinia Reservoir.

Parks Victoria manages Aura Vale Lake under a lease from Melbourne Water.

The toilet block at Henley Picnic Area is the only one in the park and the septic system no longer meetsVictorian Government standards.

Brigades respond to car accident in Olinda

Monbulk CFA, Olinda CFA and Kalorama CFA responded to a car accident in Olinda at around 4.30am on Tuesday 9 May.

Monbulk CFA said the car had lost control, left the road before coming to a stop down a steep embankment between some large trees.

CFA members secured the car with ropes and helped the passengers to the roadside where Ambulance Victoria paramedics assessed them for injuries.

None of those involved were seriously injured.

Police appeal for help after Wantirna South theft

Police are appealing for assistance from the public after a theft in Wantirna South in April.

Police said two men arrived at a construction site carpark in Wantirna South around 12.50am on 15 April in a grey ute with stolen registration plates, believed to be YAP906.

It is alleged the two men forced entry into a temporary storage unit and stole power tools estimated to be worth $10,000.

Police have released images of two men they believe can assist with their enquiries.

The first man is approximately 20 years old and was wearing a black Nike hoodie, black pants and black shoes.

The second man is approximately 30 years old and was wearing a navy blue hoodie, black pants and black runners.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

The concept design for the Tim Neville Arboretum. Picture: KNOX CITY COUNCIL

There is hope for Yarra Ranges residents like Natalie Guest (pictured), who are trying to rebuild after the June 2021 storm event. 290422 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Action sought on agitation

By Parker McKenzie

Yarra Ranges Council has called on the state government to take action on recent disruptions at council meetings throughout Victoria after the public gallery was closed by the council until May.

At the Tuesday Yarra Ranges Council meeting, councillors unanimously voted to submit a motion to the Municipal Association of Victoria’s (MAV) state council on Friday 19 May, calling on the Victorian Government to “actively work with the local government sector and other relevant stakeholders to develop state-wide measures to manage and prevent disruptive and unsafe behaviour,” at local council meetings and “coordinate a response to the expanding and increasingly aggressive cohort in the community that have been targeting local councils in recent months.”

Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said in his terms as Shire of UpperYarra President in 1985 and as Mayor of Yarra Ranges in 2012, 2013, 2021 and 2023, he has never seen “such continuous disruptive and aggressive behaviour that has been playing out in council public galleries.”

“The purpose of this late motion is to see the whole of MAV membership support to call on the Victorian government to actively work with the local government sector and other relevant stakeholders to develop statewide measures that support councils to manage and prevent disruptive and unsafe behaviour,” he said.“Yarra Ranges Council is committed to reopening the doors of the public gallery once again but can only do so with increased support and a coordinated sector-wide response to ensure the safety of staff, councillors and the broader community.”

On 31 January this year,Yarra Ranges Council adjourned its meeting due to injections from the public gallery and called the police when those in attendance refused to leave

the Civic Centre building in Lilydale. Before councillors spoke and voted on the motion, Yarra Ranges resident Belinda Bernardini, who is a founder of the fringe-community group My Place Yarra Valley, spoke against the motion. She said an alternative recommendation would be “to look at altering your undemocratic governance processes so that outcomes accord with the needs of the community rather than that of bureaucrats.”

“Mayor Child has been, in my opinion, a large contributor to the discord in the gallery. He has personally been quoted in the media labelling My Place members as anti-vaxxers, holocaust deniers and right-wing conspiracy theorists,” Ms Bernardini said. “As the founder of My Place Yarra Valley independent of any

My Place in the country, and as a vaccinated resident who has personally been to Auschwitz and many other World War II historical locations with a healthy distrust of government, I wholeheartedly refute all these allegations.”

After a decision was made to close the public gallery in April, Mayor Jim Child said members of the group hadn’t come to terms with the Holocaust, after My Place founder Darren Bergwerf told ABC’s 7.30 program he didn’t know if the genocide occurred because he “wasn’t there.”

Ms Bernardini said the agenda item suggests that there has been a significant amount of serious incidents that warrant intervention from MAV and the state government, “yet in spite of this council calling the police and

employing security guards, there has not been one arrest.”

Members of My Place Yarra Valley and My Place in the Hills, offshoots of Mr Bergwerf’s My Place Frankston group, have been attending council meetings to protest Yarra Ranges Council adopting 20-minute neighbourhood design principles in recent development plans for Monbulk and Warburton. Yarra Ranges Council no longer takes questions “relating to 20-minute neighbourhoods or their alignment to the principles associated with the United Nations” during meetings. Deputy-Mayor Sophie Todorov said Yarra Ranges Council has had its “very own evidence-based experience of having meetings disrupted since 31 January.” The motion was passed unanimously.

Yarra Ranges Council meetings are currently closed to the public, with meetings continuing to be live-streamed.

Picture: YARRA RANGES COUNCIL

Budget makes statement

By Parker McKenzie

Make no mistake, the 2023/24 federal budget was just as much about making a political statement as it was about economic management.

When Treasurer Jim Chalmers handed down the budget and a forecast of a budget surplus on Tuesday 9 May, his aim — alongside providing cost-of-living relief, investing in Medicare and “laying the foundations for growth” —was to dispel the myth that the Labor party is inferior at economic management compared to the Coalition opposition.

In his speech to Parliament, Mr Chalmers said the budget aims to make Australia more resilient and more secure in uncertain times.

“Fundamental to this is our responsible economic management and our efforts to the budget on a stronger foundation,” he said.

“We are now forecasting a small surplus in 2022-23, which would be the first in 15 years.”

While the Liberal-National government forecasted a surplus in 2019/20, it was never realised due to increased spending throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

The last time a surplus was achieved was in 2008 when the Rudd government delivered an underlying cash surplus of $19.7 billion.

Mr Chalmers said the global economy is slowing due to persistent inflation, higher interest rates and financial sector strains.

“Outside of the pandemic and the Global Financial Crisis, the next two years are expected to be the weakest for global growth in over two decades. This will affect us here in Australia,” he said.

“This budget is carefully calibrated to alleviate inflationary pressures not add to them.”

The budget includes a $14.6 billion plan to address the cost of living — “we understand Australians are under the pump right now,” Mr Chalmers said — which includes $3 billion

in energy bill relief to eligible households and small businesses co-funded with state governments, a $40 a fortnight increase for Jobseeker, Youth Allowance, Austudy and other support payments, and an increase to rent assistance by 15 per cent.

Mr Chalmers said one of the things that makes Australia the best country in the world is the “shared belief that every Australian should be able to access affordable, reliable healthcare.”

“Right now, too many people are finding it more and more difficult to see a doctor,” he said.

“The costs are too high, the wait times are too long and the consultation is too short.”

The budget allocated funding for eight new Urgent Care Clinics and $3.5 billion for GPs to provide free consultations to children, pensioners and other concession card holders, a cohort of 11.6 million Australians.

Mr Chalmers said while investing in Medicare and helping those most in need are essential measures to assist Australians under pressure, the best long-term guarantee of rising living standards, stronger wages and a better quality of life is a growing and productive economy.

“Our budget is underpinned by a plan to modernise our and maximise our strengths,” Mr Chalmers said.

“Australia’s biggest opportunity for growth and prosperity is the global shift to clean energy.”

$2 billion is being allocated to a new Hydrogen Headstart program, “so Australia can be a world leader in producing and exporting hydrogen power.”

$40 billion is being allocated to renewable energy, including $15 billion for the National Reconstruction Fund, which aims to support the development of green industries and manufacturing.

Liberals take aim at budget decisions on living costs

By Parker McKenzie

The Liberal opposition says Labor’s 2023/24 budget will worsen the cost of living crisis, reduce access to mental health services and cut funding to important local infrastructure projects.

Federal opposition Leader Peter Dutton said the “Albanese Government’s Big Australia approach will make the cost-of-living crisis and inflation worse.”

We all support a well-planned migration program – and that’s the history of Coalition government, but over five years, net overseas migration will see our population increase by 1.5 million people,” he said.

“It’s the biggest migration surge in our country’s history and it’s occurring amidst a housing and rental crisis. Australians are struggling to rent or purchase a property now.”

He said the budget “hurts working Aus-

tralians” and risks “creating a generation of working poor Australians.”

Casey MP Aaron Violi said he was disappointed the treasurer isn’t “taking pressure off inflation.”

“He could have significantly taken more

pressure off by delivering a bigger surplus,” he said.

“There was a real opportunity to take even more pressure off inflation, which would have then taken more pressure off interest rates.”

Mr Violi took aim at the decision to remove funding for local roads, a joint venture between the Federal Government and Yarra Ranges Council called Roads for Community, and “admit that they’d made a mistake.”

“Through their own departmental advice, they know this program improves safety for residents,” he said.

“They know this program, in consultation and partnership with Yarra Ranges Council, was being delivered on time and on budget and it was a project that they supported in 2019.”

The $300 million road sealing project received bi-partisan support in 2019 — when

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was Infrastructure Minister — and Yarra Ranges Council received over $98 million of funding required to complete it. The remaining funds required have been cut from the budget.

The Liberal Party is also supporting the reinstatement of a Covid-19 policy of 20 subsidised psychology sessions per year, which has been reduced to 16 in the current budget.

Mr Violi said the opposition is also calling on the Labor party to support banning gambling ads from live sport broadcasts an hour before and an hour after games.

“I think that’s a really important policy because footy time is family time. I love watching the footy with my kids, I don’t like when they see the odds and when there’s talk about betting during the games,” he said.

“We’re leading the conversation in this space around gambling reform and around mental health support.”

Casey MP Aaron Violi said the Labor Government “made a mistake” by cutting funding for roads in his electorate.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Treasurer Jim Chalmers delivering the budget speech to parliament on Tuesday 9 May.

Picture: AUSTRALIAN PARLIAMENT HOUSE

Small biz welcomes boost

By Callum Ludwig

The 2023/24 Federal Budget has backed small businesses to take on challenges old and new as Australia nears one year of an Albanese Labor Government.

Rising costs and a tight labour market are tough conditions to face but some budget measures look set to help alleviate common concerns.

Executive Officer and business consultant at Yarra Ranges Enterprise Centres (YREC) Alison Fitzgerald said small businesses at YREC are feeling the pinch with two tenants giving notice this week.

“Starting a small business has been a dream for these 2 businesses but both tenants have had to make the decision to seek full-time employment due to increases in supplies and cost of living, and a reduction in the disposable income of their customer market,” she said.

“The government announcement to pay $650 to small businesses is welcomed by other tenants who are also being adversely affected by cost of supplies and decreased markets. Following the 2022 year of ‘survival’, most considered this year to be a year of growth, however this growth is now being compromised by economic impacts.”

$650 in electricity bill relief will be available for small businesses from 1 July 2023.

A welcome increase in the instant asset write-off threshold to $20,000 was announced on a per-asset basis for 12 months from 1 July for eligible small businesses.

Businesses are also being incentivised to be more energy efficient with up to $20,000 available to provide an additional 20 per cent depreciation for eligible energy-saving and ef-

Biosecurity funds backed

By Callum Ludwig

The Federal Government made a massive investment of over $1 billion in biosecurity and agriculture in the 2023/24 budget, but questions are raised about the delivery.

$153 million of the funding is also set to be received from businesses in the agricultural, forestry and fishery industries through a biosecurity protection levy.

Chairman of Yarra Valley Agribusiness Cluve Larkman said it’s good that they are putting a lot more money into biosecurity, but he will wait to see how much of it hits the ground.

“I’mconcernedthatthey’retalkingabout funding part of it with a 10 per cent levy of agricultural products, it’s a bit unfair to take money that we’re putting towards research to go towards their biosecurity costings, those that use the biosecurity system are already paying through the nose,” he said. “Why they need to raise more money off us, I’m not sure, but it’s good to see that they see the value in keeping Australia as pest free as we can be, I’m always pleased to see that.”

The inclusion of the levy was to cover the benefit that the industry will derive from the investment, which will target the‘detection, identification and response associated with invasive pests and diseases, maximising trade opportunities, and enhancing ac-

cess to premium overseas markets.’

Mr Larkman said he would like to see a bit more money put into agricultural expansion sections, as he has seen in other countries. He said there are three key biosecurity issues.

“There’s the importing and exporting of plants and animals coming into and out of Australia, that’s very strictly controlled. Then you’ve got the interstate biosecurity issues, which is the state Departments of Agriculture who put their own rules and regulations between each state, which makes it very hard in moving plants and animals across the state, or across state borders,” he said.“Then you’ve got the regional issues like Queensland Fruit Flies, filoxera and the varroa mite on the bees, it’s important that when an outbreak occurs of a new pest, that the Federal Government is there to assist in trying to eradicate it, or at worse,

ficient electrification assets.

“YREC looks forward to exploring the bonus tax discount and Energy Incentive that the government is offering and will be considering sustainability projects to claim 20 per cent of spending that supports electrification or more efficient energy use,” said Ms Fitzgerald.

“The $20,000 instant asset write-off for

small businesses continuing until the middle of next year is also relevant to YREC and our tenants assisting businesses to deduct the full cost of assets up to that price that was installed or ready for use before that date.”

Small business innovation in the field of artificial intelligence is encouraged with support on offer for adopting artificial intelligence technologies to streamline business processes and improve competitiveness.

Small business voices are set to be at the forefront of systemic change with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) also establishing a complaints mechanism for small business advocacy groups.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson said the Budget helps small businesses with contemporary challenges.

“There is support for small and family businesses to tackle immediate pressures, particularly with high energy input costs, an asset write-off boost to help re-equip and invest in productivity, tax administration changes that will help with vital cash flow challenges and much-needed advice to deal with cyber security fears,” he said.

“Energising enterprise can deliver a stronger economy and these measures are a step towards delivering that.”

Veterans welcome Budget

By Tanya Steele

RSLs nationwide have welcomed news of funding allocated to the 2023-34 federal budget and Colette Shaw president of the Healesville sub-branch said the announcement is a good start.

“It’ll go a long way to improving the backlog of claims and put some investment into suicide prevention and training programmes,” she said.

The federal government has announced some additional funding to its defence personnel, veterans and their families with $64.1 million in additional resourcing allocated in the federal budget for 2023–24 and $2 million over two years to continue DVA’s mental health literacy and suicide intervention training program.

The budget report highlighted that improving the administration of the claims system was a priority, with $254.1 million investment to modernise and sustain ICT systems.

This was a result of recommendations from the interim report from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.

The report focused on the identification of systemic problems and solutions to suicide and suicidality among serving and ex-serving ADF members and was tabled in Parliament in August 2022.

“This budget is addressing some of those recommendations, which includes investing more money into the whole DVA. Our local veterans welcome what the federal government’s doing with their investment,” Ms Shaw said.

The government has also pledged to provide an additional $4.8 billion in funding for veterans’ compensation and support payments to meet future expected claims.

The Royal Commission report pointed to other issues in the Department of Veteran’s Affairs claims process, including the difficulty and complexity of the claims systems, a massive backlog of claims and the inability of serving and ex-serving members and their families to access information about themselves and their loved ones.

Ms Shaw said she hopes the proposed funding would mean veterans would get their claims approved and processed a lot faster and that positive changes could continue for the veterans.

“So hopefully, there’ll be further changes and further policies implemented down the track, but this is definitely a good start to supporting our veterans,” Ms Shaw said.

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The Dawn Service at the Healesville RSL subbranch for 2023. Picture: TANYA STEELE

Over $1 billion was pledged to biosecurity in the 2023/24 Federal budget. Picture: FILE

YREC Executive Officer Alison Fitzgerald welcomes some of the budget initiatives for small business. 204174

Picture: ON FILE

Childhood learning boost

By Tyler Wright

The Federal government has announced it will spend $72.4 million over four years to support the skills development of early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector workers.

In the 2023-2024 budget released on Tuesday 9 May, the government announced it will support early childhood educators to undertake professional development and provide financial assistance to educators and teachers to complete the required practical component of a Bachelor or Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education.

$34.4 million will be dedicated over five years to subsidise ECEC services to backfill up to 75,000 early childhood educators, early childhood teachers and centre directors to undertake mandatory or highly recommended training, or to pay an allowance to the educator if training is undertaken outside work hours.

Up to 6,000 educators in the ECEC sector will be able to undertake a paid practicum in initial teacher education courses at a bachelor or post-graduate level, thanks to an injection of $33.1 million.

It comes after the government announced in the October 2022 budget that childcare will be made cheaper for families from 1 July 2023, with more than 1.2 million eligible families under a measure revealed in the $4.5 billion policy.

Yarra Ranges Kindergartens CEO Gaby Thomson said the reforms are welcome, but funding needs to go into staff pockets to help workforce shortages to help combat the demand for childcare.

“The whole sector is having a massive staffing crisis,” she said.

“We won’t have the facilities in the future to accommodate the reforms that the government’s introduced because you need more

than one building facility, and most of our kinders - 20 of the 22 - are in one building.

“We not only need to get new people in, and there are new government initiatives to get people in, but we need money in people’s pockets to stop them leaving.”

Ms Thomson said is calling for educators to receive a minimum 25 per cent wage increase,

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with qualified educators beginning their career earning a minimum hourly rate of $24.38; $3 above the minimum wage.

“It’s very hard to attract people... teachers are much better paid. It’s the educators that suffer,” she said.

“We like the fact that finally we’re getting recognised in the budget and getting resourc-

es, but [the government has] got to listen to what the sector needs.”

From mid-2023, families earning less than $80,000 are set to receive a childcare subsidy increase from 85 per cent to 90 per cent, with families earning up to $530,000 also provided with subsidised childcare.

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re removing 110 dangerous and congested level crossings, with 67 already gone.

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions

Belgrave and Lilydale lines

Until late MayOn sections of the lines

Road disruptions: Closed roads

Mont Albert Road, Mont Albert

Union Road, Surrey Hills

Check

Until early MayAt the level crossing

Until early MayAt the level crossing

In the 2023-2024 Federal budget released on Tuesday 9 May, the government announced it will spend $72.4 million over four years to support the skills development of early childhood education and care sector workers.

Picture: ON FILE

Doyle gives first speech

By Parker McKenzie

Aston MP Mary Doyle delivered her first speech to Federal Parliament on Thursday 11 May, after she was sworn in earlier in the week as the first woman to represent the electorate.

Ms Doyle opened her speech by acknowledging the traditional custodians of the land and said she looked forward to the time when the Uluru Statement from the Heart is implemented in full.

“I am here now in this chamber as the new Member for Aston, the first woman to be elected in the seat’s history, and the second-ever Labor representative for this seat,” she said.

I acknowledge, with respect, the previously elected members for Aston and their good work in the community over the years: John Saunderson, the late Peter Nugent, Chris Pearce and Alan Tudge.”

She said the electorate of Aston is named after one of the most important disability activists in Australia’s history, Matilda Aston, and she hopes to “embody some of her spirit, courage and persistence and bring these quality to my role as member for the electorate.”

“The people I call friends and family who live in suburbs like Ferntree Gully, Boronia, Wantirna, Bayswater, Knoxfield and Rowville are among the hardest working, compassionate and good-hearted people I know,” Ms Doyle said.

“These are the CFA volunteers, the community organisation volunteers who help disadvantaged people in the community, the sporting and theatre club volunteers who show up without fail to bring some excitement and lifeaffirming qualities to peoples’ lives.”

She paid tribute to Foothills Community Care and Knox Infolink volunteers, members of Sri Vakrathunda Vinayaga Hindu Temple and Community Centre in The Basin and the Shree Swaminarayan Hindu Temple in Boro-

nia and members of the Knox Chinese Elderly Citizens Club.

Ms Doyle spoke about her upbringing in Echua as the youngest of nine in a “big Catholic family.”

“Tragically, both my sister Carmel and my niece Melanie are no longer with us, having both passed in 2009 and 2020 respectively. My family and I miss them terribly,” she said.

“I am now Guardian of my great-niece, 16-year-old Jamilah, Melanie’s daughter and Carmel’s granddaughter and I am proud to be caring for her and to see the bright and talented young woman she’s becoming. I am so happy she is here today.”

She said in the early 1970s, her father Ted “lost his job and succumbed to depression and alcoholism, and never returned to work.

“In the early 70s, because of my dad’s alcoholism and mental health issues, he had to apply for, what they called back then, the ‘invalid pension’, the married couples’ one,” Ms Doyle said.

“As a child growing up in public housing, like some other very senior people sitting in the House right now, I didn’t always have the things some other kids at school took for granted. I understood from an early age that my family was not one with a lot of money.”

Ms Doyle said in late 1995, at 25 years old

while living in a share-house and working in a call centre, she found a lump in her right breast by accident.

“The results stated the lump was ‘atypical’, so the GP sent me to a breast specialist who did a fine needle aspiration. The next day, the results confirmed I had breast cancer,” she said

“I didn’t know what the broader future held, in terms of life and death, and more immediately, I didn’t know how I was going to pay my rent and bills, let alone save up for a wedding if I couldn’t work.”

She said living in a country with Medicare allowed her to receive the support and she needed “without paying a king’s ransom.”

“There is a very good reason terms like social security and welfare exist. These are not dirty words. We need to remember what they mean and re-embrace them,” Ms Doyle said.

“For the security of society, for the welfare of people, to help people get back on their feet, and ensure they’re not left behind.”

She thanked her campaign teams in 2022 and 2023, volunteers and the multitude of federal and state MPs who supported her throughout the campaign.

“To a bloke who, just like me – grew up in public housing, and grew up Catholic, I can’t thank you enough for backing me all the way,” she said.

“Thank you, Prime Minister, I’m so proud to be part of the team you lead.”

Ms Doyle said she confessed at the start of her campaign in 2023 that she wasn’t a career politician, instead “a regular type of person, who’s lived the kind of life which mirrors that of many of my constituents.”

“My backstory is one riddled with challenges. Families doing it tough in Aston, families like mine growing up, don’t need a pat on the head and a pitying look, what we need is good policy, and to be taken seriously,” she said.

“My message to them is: I will always put you first as your Member for Aston.”

Mary Doyle giving her first speech in Parliament. Picture: AUSTRALIAN PARLIAMENT HOUSE

Getting to heart of matter

By Tyler Wright

A Hills local is helping ensure the Monbulk community is prepared in case someone experiences a sudden cardiac arrest.

Craig Vandenberg has spearheaded the installation of defibrillators around the town, which are located at the Monbulk RSL subbranch, the local football, bowls and cricket clubs and the Monbulk Police Station.

“About four years ago, we had an incident at the RSL where someone went down. She wasn’t in cardiac arrest, but that highlighted the fact that we have an ageing demographic at the RSL, being mostly veterans,” MrVandenberg said.

At a general meeting, RSL members agreed one was required - but at $2,000 - the purchase was “quite expensive”.

“I approached the Bendigo Bank through their community funding programs, and they paid for a defibrillator for the RSL without hesitation,” Mr Vandenberg said.

“With around 10 defibrillators in the town, the Monbulk RSL with Ranges Training Solutions also hosts CPR training and refresher courses at the club as sudden cardiac arrests kills 55 Australians every day and less than eight percent survive.”

Mr Vandenberg purchased his own personal miniature defibrillator - or CellAED - in June 2022 after his own father-in-law experienced a heart attack.

The device now sits in the glovebox of his car.

“I wasn’t there at the time, but family called an ambulance and my brother-in-law raced up to the fish and chip shop where he knew they had a defibrillator,” he said.

“It had flat batteries, and we were lucky enough that the ambulance was close by, returning to the state depot.

“They called straight in and were able to

take great care of him.”

The CellAED- no larger than a block of chocolate - snaps in half with its user able to attach two pads to the upper and lower part of the patient’s chest, with the machine providing instructions for use.

“I did a little bit of research and found them online, and they were very affordable,” Mr Vandenberg said.

“I thought ‘’well, for someone who finds themselves in the wrong place at the right time very often, for $360, it’s a no brainer.’

“Once you use it, it’s disposed of. But one thing I’ve always said, ‘if I’ve got to save someone’s life to use it, I can guarantee they will buy me a new one’.”

According to the latest data from the Australian Red Cross, less than five percent of Australians know CPR and on a global scale it is one of the lowest rates in the world.

“Using a defibrillator within the first minute of sudden cardiac arrest can potentially bring the chance of survival rate up to 90 per cent,” Rapid Response Revival Research Ltd spokesman Luke Starr said.

“Of the thousands of Australians who purchased a CellAED defibrillator for their home, nine in ten did so because they or someone they know has a higher risk for cardiac arrest.

“We know that most instances of Sudden Cardiac Arrest occur at home, that’s why we have developed an affordable, easy to use defibrillator that can be kept at home.”

A sudden cardiac arrest occurs when a person’s heart immediately stops pumping blood, leaving a patient gasping, clucking, or without breath at all.

“If I had a cardiac arrest right now, for every minute that I did not receive CPR and defibrillation, my chances of being revived decrease by 10 per cent, and so after 10 minutes, I have next to no chance being revived,” Mr Starr said.

“If you’re performing the CPR, which is your external pumping, it’s keeping the heart moving, and then you got a defibrillator on the chest that is actually trying to get the heart working under its own volition...then all of that is buying time for an ambulance to arrive and provide that expert help and give the paramedics the chance to save their life.”

Craig Vandenberg with his personal CellAED. 334270 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Mr Vandenberg keeps his miniature defibirillator in the glove box of his car in case of an emergency. 334270

Emerald man wins $1.7m

An Emerald man woke up his wife in a frenzy during the early hours of the morning to reveal their newly minted millionaire status after scoring $1.7 million in the weekend’s TattsLotto draw.

The Hills resident held one of the three division one winning entries in TattsLotto draw 4361, drawn Saturday 6 May 2023 and took home a total prize of $1,746,848.08.

The winning entry was unregistered which meant officials from The Lott had no way of contacting the ticketholder to confirm the winning news and had to wait for them to come forward and claim their prize.

Confirming his newfound fortune with an official from The Lott this morning, the regular player admitted he was overwhelmed by the winning news.

“I’m more in shock than anything – quite overwhelmed!” he said.

Scanning the ticket on his phone at 4am, he said he “couldn’t believe” it came up with the winning prize amount.

“At first, I thought it was $17 but then I saw the extra digits. I woke up my partner and asked her, ‘Can you check this?’ he said.

“She just started saying, ‘Holy s***! Holy s***!’. She would’ve been confused about why I’m waking her up at 4am, but she wasn’t offended after I told her that we’d won $1.7 million!

“I started playing my own lottery numbers four years ago. I said to myself, I can never not play my own numbers because if they came up, I’d be spewing!

The man said he and his partner have shared the news with others close to them, but are otherwise keeping it a secret.

“Who knows, we might celebrate soon!”

With $1.7 million about to hit his bank account, theVictorian shared it was time for him to pay off his mortgage outright, buy a new car and complete some house maintenance work.

“First thing we will do is pay off the house

mortgage, which is awesome,” he said.

“Then, I’ll look to buy a brand-new car.

“We’ve wanted to complete some maintenance around the house, so we can finally do that too!”

His winning entry was purchased at Emerald Newsagency at 4 Kilvington Drive in Emerald.

Emerald Newsagency owner Carl Mardinian said he was thrilled to celebrate the seventh division one winning entry at his outlet.

“We’ve very excited for our division one

winner and it’s great news for the Emerald community,” he said.

“We’ve very proud of this achievement, and it marks our seventh division one winning entry for Emerald Newsagency.

“We thank the winner for his continuous support of our newsagency and wish the winner all the best with their prize!”

The winning numbers in TattsLotto draw 4361 on 6 May 2023 were 17, 35, 30, 13, 2, and 8, while the supplementary numbers were 34 and 5.

Across Australia, there were three division one winning entries in TattsLotto draw 4361 – one each in Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia.

The Lott’s division one winning tally has now reached 360 so far this financial year, including 137 won by Tatts customers.

In 2022, TattsLotto created 171 millionaires across Australia.

During this time, there were 330 division one winning in TattsLotto entries across Australia that collectively won more than $456.6 million.

Leaking oil drum found dumped into Blind Creek

By Parker McKenzie

In early May, a 44-gallon oil drum was dumped into the Ferntree Gully end of Blind Creek, resulting in oil spilling as far as 50 metres from where the barrel was found.

The Friends of the Gully (FROGY), a special interests group focused on the Blind Creek corridor from the Dandenong Ranges National Park to the Belgrave Railway Line, found the drum and reported it to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Melbourne Water, but the extent of the damage once the barrel was removed is hard to quantify.

FROGY’s Robin Madsen said she discovered the barrel while working with the council to weed and replant the area.

“We’re focused on the top, but we’ve start-

ed working down in the bottom area and I was checking it out when I saw a barrel and a hydrocarbon plume floating away from

that,” she said.

“I work in the contaminated land industry, and I would normally expect to see these plumes in quite industrial, highly contaminated areas where there was a lot of heavy industry in the past, but not in a creek like this out in Ferntree Gully.”

Ms Madesen originally thought the barrel may have been there for a while, but on closer inspection and after a conversation with a council worker it was established it was recently dumped.

“It’s occurred to me there’s probably been a couple of episodes where they tipped other oil previously into the water,” she said.

“They’ve probably gone to tip more stuff into the creek and perhaps the whole barrel slipped down the banks because they’re quite steep there.”

She said once reported, the EPA and MelbourneWater within two hours to remove the barrel.

“One of the issues is the oil itself can stick to bugs, critters and birds that we’re trying to protect and can break down their protective layers,” Ms Madsen said.

“It can also create a lack of oxygen in the creek and the plants and animals can die.“

Ms Madsen said if anyone notices something like an oil barrel in a creek or water source, they should definitely call the EPA as soon as possible.

“if they see anyone doing it, just grab the number plate of the car or the vehicle and let EPA know.,” she said.

“We just need to look after this planet, we’ve only got one chance.”

The barrel was found dumped in Blind Creek.

Picture: FROGY

The winning ticket holder said the first thing he and his partner will do with the win is pay off their house mortgage. Picture: THE LOTT

THE JOY OF BRINGING JOY TO OTHERS

Meet three Melbourne volunteers who may think they’re leading ordinary retirements but are making an extra-ordinary difference to the livesofolderpeople.Andatthesame time adding a new level of joy to theirown.

Graeme and Joy Thompson (pictured) love spending their days ladling out hot shared meals and happiness as they help staff organise exercise and activities for older people at one of the many Uniting AgeWell social connections centres in Melbourne. “I feel I’m reallycontributingandIgetsomuch personalsatisfactionfromit,”saysJoy. “We are helping older people really enjoythemselves.”

Franca Goodwin spends oneon-one time with residents at one of Uniting AgeWell’s 12 aged care facilities in Victoria; chatting with residents, listening to stories of their lives and sharing her own. “I know they look forward to my visits,” she says.“This makes me feel valued and appreciated and so happy to be brightening up theirdays.”

And during National Volunteer Week, (May 15-21) it’s time to give a hugeshoutouttoallthosevolunteers, likeFranca,GraemeandJoy,fortheir

endless work and tireless energy in enriching the lives of older people in ourcommunity.

The theme for this year is The Change Makers which celebrates the power to drive change and ensure volunteering is inclusive of all members of the Australian

community. Uniting AgeWell CEO Andrew Kinnersly says, “this theme ringstrueforus,whereinclusionisa core value underpinning everything we do. With a long history of volunteer support, Uniting AgeWell’s services have grown and flourished; avitalcontributionwerecogniseand appreciateeachandeveryday.”

There are a wide range of volunteering opportunities available at Uniting AgeWell. You can visit theirwebsiteatunitingagewell.orgor call 13 93 75 to see how you too can enrichthelivesofolderpeople–and yourown!

St Paul’s seeks wellbeing

St Paul’s provides a sensational education, but just as importantly, St Paul’s stands for wellbeing.

The wellbeing of all students and all members of the community is why St Paul’s exists. When you enter St Paul’s you can see the focus on wellbeing, you can feel the connection and you can sense that belonging that exists within the beautifully refurbished buildings.

St Paul’s is inclusive, and people from every background are welcome to experience the sense of wellbeing that comes with an education at St Paul’s. As a Catholic school, the values are lived out by all members of the community. It is natural for our school community to demonstrate our values because they come from a common place. The values that form the basis for our learning are: respect, responsibility, justice, courage, wisdom and knowledge.

Our values are pivotal to the life of the school and the community, and are embedded within student support and teaching and learning programs. The outstanding staff model these values and actively look for students demonstrating them.

Student welfare is an integral part of the success and wellbeing of students and as a school, providing a safe, happy, supportive learning environment is of upmost priority for all staff.

There is a school counsellor and a wellbeing team, that includes the Principal so when parents drop their children off, they know they will be ok.

St Paul’s promotes a strong partnership between students, teachers and parents, based on mutual respect and understanding. There is a commitment to child safety and a belief that all children have a right to feel safe and be safe at all times. All staff and volunteers are re-

quired to observe child safe standards and expectations for appropriate behaviour towards and in the company of our students.

All prep children are matched with a Grade 6 student as a‘buddy’ who look out for one another in the playground and spend class time together on occasion. The Buddy Program helps the prep child’s transition into the school environment and benefits the social development of both students.

When you tour St Paul’s you will see a balance of technology, visual arts, performing arts, physical education, chess, gardening, Italian language, structure, discipline and a sense of calm. Students experience all that a balanced education has to offer including the biennial School Musical and Art Show, inter school sport, mindfulness and meditation and focussed literacy and numeracy. Classroom programs are strategically differentiated to en-

sure every student is working in their ‘point of need’ and they are given the maximum opportunity to achieve positive academic outcomes and be a successful learner.

The most important thing to remember is that an education at St Paul’s is underpinned by a foundation of Wellbeing. St Paul’s deliver the curriculum, but at St Paul’s they teach every child. Call the office on 97567201 for your personal tour today.

We are a Christ centred school, where all are valued since we are made in the image and likeness of God.

We develop Relationships, where we recognise that the strength of our community is in collaboration and service with and for each other and our wider community. Providing an engaging and quality education across all curriculum areas, for all students.

Student centred personalised learning

Every Day is Open Day Families are welcome to contact us to book a tour St John the Baptist School 17 Forest Road, Ferntree Gully Ph: 9758 1013 | www.sjferntreegully.catholic.edu.au Email: principal@sjferntreegully.catholic.edu.au

Rich and engaging Specialist Programs - Physical Education, Visual Arts, Performing Arts and Italian

St Paul’s is underpinned by a foundation of wellbeing.

Picture: SUPPLIED

EDUCATION WEEK

Kids say: pays to sustain

Monbulk Primary School has been focusing on Sustainability for over a decade. They have been part of Resource Smart Schools since 2015 and are currently awaiting to be certified for their fifth sustainability star. They have achieved their stars by adjusting whole school behaviours and attitudes so students consider the environment in their everyday learning and play. Every year a Sustainability Captain is nominated and they form a Sustainability Team who work hard to promote sustainability in the school.

Elora is the Sustainability Captain for 2023.

“I wanted to be a Sustainability Captain

because I wanted to help the world, especially with problems related to waste and plastic. Having less waste would lead to a cleaner healthier planet,” she said.

“This year so far we have worked on recertifying our Water Module. It has been really interesting to learn about how much water we waste and reports this back to the school.”

Tom, Halle, June and Winter are all part of the Sustainability Team.

“I wanted to be part of the Sustainability Team to help make our school and community a cleaner place with less rubbish. This year we

learned about waste in the ocean, and learned that there was more rubbish in the ocean than fish,”Winter said.

“I wanted to be a part of the Sustainability team because I care about sea life and animals and wanted to make the environment better for them. This year I have helped implement Rubbish Free Friday which has been great to encourage people to but their rubbish in the bin and not around the school yard,” Tom said.

“I wanted to be part of the Sustainability Team because last year I did some research on pollution in the ocean and I thought it was

sad all of these innocent animals were being harmed,” Halle said.

“My aim for this year is to help our school reduce the amount of rubbish we send to landfill. We are going to promote Rubbish Free Lunch more to make this happen.”

“I wanted to be a part of the Sustainability team because I wanted to do something that was going to help the environment and save the world,” June said.

“When we did a water audit we found lots of ways we could save more water at school which is something we can work on now.”

Hard at work.

Picture: SUPPLIED

The Sustainability Team.

The Dandenong Ranges Steiner School is an independent School, Kindergarten and Playgroup based on the educational model founded by 20 th Century philosopher, Rudolf Steiner.

Children are provided a natural, holistic learning environment allowing them to flourish intellectually, artistically, spiritually and practically. The deep, culturally rich curriculum is based on an understanding of the relevance of the different phases of child development and encourages a life-long love of learning and enthusiasm for school. The school’s diverse community and beautiful natural surrounds inform how the curriculum is delivered.

Each year the DRRS invites families from the wider community to visit the Primary School and Early Childhood Campuses during EducationWeek (May 20 – May 27). School visits are essential as they provide families with a feeling sense of the school, an understanding of how staff and students interact and an insight into how the curriculum is taught in the classroom. The DRRS has three separate events on offer. On Saturday May 20 from 10am to 1pm, families are warmly invited to visit the Early Childhood Campus located at 51 School Road in Menzies Creek. Families may explore the space, warm up with a cuppa and a chat with the Playgroup, Kinder and Prep staff.

OnThursdayMay25thePrimarySchoolwill hold its Open Day at 11c Duffys Road in Emerald. In the morning from 9.15am to 11.30am all Classrooms will be open to visitors during school time for a glimpse of the curriculum in action. Be sure to bring your gold coins so you can grab a cup of chai and a home-baked treat in our Class Six Cafe. This is a great space to speak with parents at the school to gain an-

other insight into the school and its programs.

The week finishes off with a truly unique event called theTaste of Steiner Curriculum on Saturday the 27 of May from 9am to 1.30pm at the Primary Campus. This is a child-free event which allows parents to really sink into the offerings of the day. The school’s experienced

teachers will take you on a journey through a variety of subjects such as Morning Circle, Geometry, Literacy, Maths, Movement and Voice, Painting, Craft and Clay Modelling. This is a unique opportunity to gain a deep understanding of the Steiner Curriculum through this hands-on interactive half day in the class-

room. This is a very popular free, event and bookings are essential. Bookings may be made online via the school’s website at drss.vic.edu. au under Events on the Community Page. Workshop participants will experience the depth and richness of the Steiner curriculum first hand.

DRSS students at work.

Picture: SUPPLIED

EDUCATION WEEK

A nurturing environment

It is my privilege to be the Principal at Menzies Creek Primary School. It is a great opportunity to be supporting and working with students in our local community.

We promote academic, physical, social and emotional wellbeing development and strive to provide a safe and inclusive learning environment. Our students are inquiring, collaborative and curious. They exhibit our school values of doing their best, helping others succeed and respecting our environment.

We offer a supportive and stimulating environment and recognise that students have different strengths and abilities. We provide learning opportunities so students experience success. We run a kitchen garden program where our students learn how to grow and cook their own food as well as PE, STEM, Visual and Performing Arts and Auslan.

Come and discover for yourself our friendly and welcoming learning environment. Please contact the office to arrange a tour on 9754 3695.

We walk hand in hand to grow curious, caring, lifelong learners

Open Mornings

Tuesday 16th May 9am - 10am for Foundation, Year 1 and Year 2 classrooms

Wednesday 17th May 9am - 10am for Year 3 - 6 classrooms

Open Evening

Thursday 18th May 3.30pm - 6.00pm

Ours school guidelines are:

Do your best Help others succeed Respect your environment

At Menzies Creek Primary School and Preschool, we’re proud to offer a unique educational experience designed to enhance academic growth and promote wellbeing and engagement. Please contact us to arrange a school or preschool tour. Take a look through our website to learn more about us.

12 School Rd, Menzies Creek 9754 3695

- Dale McInerney

ComeforatouratMenziesCreekPrimary School. Picture:SUPPLIED

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

• Adult flies

Choir looks, sings the part

Singularity Choir, under the baton of Musical Director Cecily Woodberry, is once again bringing its colourful and tuneful Gilbert and Sullivan offerings to the Hills.

On Sunday 21 May at 2pm, the Upwey Baptist Community Church will host this year’s performance, with proceeds supporting the local meals program provided by Foothills Community Care.

This year’s performance will see a double header; HMS Pinafore and Trail by Jury.

Dressed in period costumes, created by Helen Ebbsworthy, the 25 performers will provide a concert version of the Gilbert and Sullivan classic HMS Pinafore, with all the music, some of the dialogue and some narration to fill the gaps.

After interval, the period shifts to the roaring twenties, and the setting to a courtroom, where the beautiful Angelina is suing her rakish fiance for leaving her at the altar, with hilarious results. This shorter offering was written by Gilbert and Sullivan without any dialogue. The music tells the whole story.

Enjoy this uplifting musical afternoon on May 21, and meet the cast afterwards, over a magnificent afternoon tea.

Advance tickets can be secured by contacting Diana Little on 0424617081. Enquiries about the choir can be directed to Margaret Tyson on 0417569471.

Sacred Stage to hold charity concert in Belgrave

By Tyler Wright

Sacred Stage will bring a charity concert to Belgrave Heights on Sunday 21 May, raising funds for a shelter for homeless women and children.

Composer and event organiser Jacqui Rutten said the day will involve classical and contemporary music for people to enjoy with a gold coin donation for a good cause.

“You pay a lot to see a good concept, but this is by donation, or you can buy a tax deductible ticket for only $20 via my website,” Ms Rutten said.

“It is really worthwhile, it’s a great opportunity to hear very good quality music.”

The schedule for the charity concert is as follows:

· Mary Knights-Rutten (singing bowls)

· Cora Teeuwen (viola) HP. Hindemith 18951963 -

· Sonate opus 25 no. 1 (First 3 movements)

· Kelsy and Cora (flute and viola)

· Musical Sketches of Ireland by Jacqui Rutten (Opus 127, 2023)

· Jacqui Rutten (mezzo-soprano)

· Improvisations as Nature & To Li Po(from Opus 126, 2022) words: C. Sayce.

· Barbara Hornung (viola)

· Branches by Melvyn Cann, and an original work Climate

· Kelsy de Prada (flute) a selection of flute solos

The concert is supported by Creative Part-

Composer Jacqui Rutten will be performing at the classical contemporary concert.

Picture: ON FILE

Singularity Choir costumier Helen Ebbsworthy with members of the female chorus, dressed as ‘sisters, cousins and aunts’ of Sir Joseph Porter. Pictures: SUPPLIED

‘Josephine and Cousin Hebe’ features Jodie De Bono (in green) as Josephine and Anne Wakeling as Cousin Hebe.

‘Josephine, Buttercup and sailors’ has Jodie De Bono as Josephine again, Carol Soloff as Little Buttercup (far right), Even Laois as Ralph (next to Josephine) and members of the men’s chorus, dressed as sailors.

Local students benefit

By Tyler Wright

The Rotary Club of Emerald & District has awarded five locals a financial boost to support their studies in medicine and allied health.

Lillian Mackay, Vanessa Dewar, Shae Jones, Tahlia Rossitto and Ruby Mulloy-Koning each received $1,000 through the club’s MacLeod Murphy Medical Scholarship to support their endeavours in a Bachelor of Paramedicine, a Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery, a Postgraduate Pharmacy degree, a Bachelor of Pharmacy, and a Bachelor of Paramedicine respectively.

Emerald & District Rotary Club president Marcus Adams said the organisation received several applications for the scholarship this year, with recipients announced on Tuesday 9 May at ParadiseValley Hotel in Clematis.

“After what’s happened with Covid, there’s been a real acknowledgment of the work and the support and the risks of our health workers, so for our club this year to be able to provide $5,000 in total for sponsor students to be working in these fields, it was a great feeling,” Mr Adams said.

“It’s not cheap studying these days, and to get some support locally for them is a real

boost, because even if it’s only one or two of them that come back and support this local community, they’ll always know that the community was right behind them at the start.”

The MacLeod Murphy Medical Scholarship was set up in 1981 for Emerald Rotary to be overseers for medical and allied service scholarships to students living in the Hills, in the name of the Hills’ first local GP, Dr Ian Stephen MacLeod Murphy.

Dr Murphy practiced for 37 years, establishing the Emerald Medical Centre in the old post office, often accepting food instead of monetary payment for patients struggling

with financial issues.

In 1977, Dr Murphy was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to the health of the community.

The walkway beside the surgery, Murphys Way, was named in honour of his decades of service and his quirky ways.

He died aged 76 on 4 July 1981 at Clematis, and is buried at the Emerald Cemetery.

The MacLeod Murphy Medical Scholarship is sponsored by Emerald Medical Centre, Emerald Village Pharmacy, Emerald Psychology Practice and AvonsleighVeterinary Clinic.

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giveusthejob...

Rotary Club of Emerald & District president Marcus Adams and District Governor Ken Miller with this year’s recipients of the MacLeod Murphy Medical Scholarship. Pictures: SUPPLIED

The first GP in the Hills, Dr MacLeod Murphy practised in Emerald for 37 years, and is now buried at the Emerald Cemetery.

No.

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Melodious (7)

5 From Stockholm, say (7)

9 Herald (9)

10 Donated (5)

11 Amazement (6)

12 Oral doctors (8)

14 Creations (6)

15 Scottish island (4)

19 Idly lounge (4)

3 Yardsticks (8)

4 Records (4)

5 Image taken of an electronic display (10)

6 Octave (6)

7 Backer (8)

8 Large Australian spider (8)

13 Alluring (10)

16 From the menu (1,2,5)

17 Seasoned smoked beef (8)

29 Territory ruled by an Islamic monarch (7)

30 Settle (7)

DOWN

1 Native American hairstyle (6)

2 Thread (6)

DECODER

WORDFIT

1 14

2 15

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6 19

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8 21

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O O E N A Today’s Aim:

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TWEET TYING VENUE WIRES YELLS 6 LETTERS DEATHS DEEPER EASIER GENTRY 7 LETTERS CAPSULE COMFORT CREMATE

OVERATE SAUSAGE VIEWING 8 LETTERS ARMOURED DISALLOW SERENEST TETHERED 11 LETTERS COMMISERATE VACATIONING

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ADORE ALIKE ALPHA ARISE CASTE CAWED COLON CRAVE DOLLS DONOR DROSS EDGES ELECT ELUDE ENROL EVENS FONTS GOUGE GREEK HEAPS

HORSE HOTEL INANE IVORY MATHS MATTE NOTES OPERA PANEL REVEL RIVET RULED SEEDS SLEEP SPREE STAVE STREW TRILL TRITE TROUT

13 26 HK William Matthews Funerals 24 HOUR SERVICE - ALLAREAS 9739 6868 45 Cave Hill Rd, Lilydale www.williammatthewsfunerals.com.au 12567433-SN37-22

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No. 133

No. 133

No. 133

HANDCRAFTED HOME ON 10 ACRES

THIS magnificent 10-acre property culminating at scenic Woori Yallock Creek is a breathtaking portion of the Dandenong Ranges not to be missed. Punctuated by a quality crafted mudbrick and weatherboard residence, this is a country-feel property immersed in exquisite local flora and fauna.

This enticing home only minutes from Monbulk township is beautifully presented inside and out.

The ground floor is enveloped by a wonderful wrap-around verandah that allows you to entertain in seasonal sun or shade throughout the day. Those who love to cook for family and friends will be enthralled with the gourmet kitchen with enviable Rangemaster cooker, butcherblock benchtops, walk-in pantry, breakfast bar, and sunny skylight.

For further living space or a bonus bedroom, the upper level retreat boasts stunning cathedral ceilings and a cosy brick fire for winter evenings in, the covered deck is the bonus every growing family craves.

For accommodation, there are generous bedrooms with built-in robes, quality carpet, and floor to ceiling windows plus a bright bathroom with timber vanity and spa tub.

Furthermore, there is an exceptional covered patio in the garden with wood-fired cooker, a double carport with adjoining studio, storeroom, and wood shed, plus an additional building serving as the hen house and machinery shed.

For a restorative rural lifestyle close to local schools, shopping, cafes, and transport, this property promises to tick all the boxes. Enjoy amazing wildlife inc wallabies, wombats and large array of birdlife. Certain to impress, prompt inspection is recommended.

HOME ESSENTIALS

· 41,022sqm (approx.) property with 2 outbuildings including double carport, studio, storerooms, wood shed, machinery shed, and hen house

·

· Lush level lawns, brilliant covered patio with wood-fired cooker, and covered verandah that frames the home

Mudbrick ground floor with gorgeous gourmet kitchen with Rangemaster cooker

· Upper level retreat with potbelly wood fire and covered verandah

· The Property Has a Trust for Nature Covenant covering 8.5 acres with the remainder a domestic area. ●

5 DWELLINGS SURROUNDED BY 2 ACRES

A RARE opportunity for you to cover all bases.

Invest for your future, earn an impressive income or reside in complete comfort and seclusion surrounded by 2 acres. This property offers many uses whether you choose to own your own business and work from home, combine living with multiple families across 5 beautifully renovated dwellings or simply spread out and enjoy the space this property ensures.

On offer is a main residence which provides 3 bedrooms, including an attic style spacious master suite, soaring high ceilings, a beautiful kitchen and plenty of character throughout with chunky timbers and a classy renovation that honours the history of the building yet offers the modern comforts of today. Attached to the main residence is another 2 bedroom cottage which is fully self-contained.

Also situated in line with the main residence but could be easily joined (STCA) is a further 3 one bedroom cottages, one of which is fully self-contained. In addition to this there is also a rustic reception area, large shedding or storage workshop, separate laundry house and linen store room plus another separate artist retreat (not for accomodation) tucked away in total seclusion allowing your creative energy to flourish.

It’s easy to see the endless possibilities here. Styled to perfection and with a current business successfully operating as ‘Emerald Star Cottages’, the furniture can be part of the deal so all you have to do is move in and reap the rewards. With very few accommodation venues in the immediate area and with a huge desire for people to escape the hustle and bustle the potential for growth is exponential.

Surrounded by 2 acres approx. of natural beauty and home to the ‘Emerald Star bush’ the sounds of the local wildlife and fresh air breeze through the trees create the idyllic hills lifestyle you are craving with privacy assured.

Located near all the conveniences yet you will feel like you are miles away from everything - do yourself a favour and escape to Emerald Star Cottages today, you won’t be disappointed.

*Please note* This is an operational business and private property. Do not enter the property without an agent on site. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS

15EmeraldLakeRoad, Emerald

THEULTIMATESETTING,LOCATIONANDLIFESTYLE

4 A T 2 B T 2 C T

FORSALE.

GUIDE $780,000-$830,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT RileyNicholas 0488501218

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

2980GembrookLaunchingPlaceRoad, Gembrook

CHARMINGBRICKGEMON5372M2!

FORSALE.

GUIDE $1,275,000-$1,375,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

Lot4,130GembrookTonimbukRGembrook TonimbukRoad, Gembrook

5PICTURESQUEACRESTOMAKEYOUROWN

LAND

FORSALE.

GUIDE $910,000

INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

8ParadiseGrove, Emerald 2 A T 1 B T 1 C T

6HeroesAvenue, Gembrook

CENTRALEMERALDSWEETIEON1009m2

FORSALE. GUIDE $650,000-$695,000 INSPECT ByAppointment CONTACT GayleBarrot 0408195767 BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

COUNTRYCHARMERON1,036M2

Emerald

POSITIONPLUSPOTENTIAL

FORSALE.

GUIDE CONTACTAGENT INSPECT ByAppointment CONTACT JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

68BeaconsfieldEmeraldRoad, Emerald

FAMILYFAVOURITEWITHLOVELYVIEWSON1,154M2

3 A T 1 B T 1 C T

FORSALE. GUIDE $710,000-$750,000 INSPECT ByAppointment CONTACT JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

FORSALE.

GUIDE $950,000-$990,000 INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

4OldSoldiersRoad, Gembrook 4 A T 2 B T 6 C T

IMPRESSIVELIFESTYLEPROPERTYWITHVIEWS

FORSALE.

GUIDE $1,650,000-$1,720,000 INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT JustinBarrot 0438683781

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

4WestlandsRoad, Emerald

4 A T 2 B T 4 C T ‘CHERRYTREEESTATE‘

3 A T 2 B T 1 C T

FORSALE.

GUIDE CONTACTAGENT INSPECT ByAppointment

CONTACT GayleBarrot 0408195767

BarryPlantEmerald 59684522

STUNNING TWO-STOREY BRICK RESIDENCE

THIS stunning two-storey brick residence with double garage and landscaped gardens sits nestled only steps from Belgrave South Primary School and the heart of Belgrave South village shops. Offering an outstanding Dandenong Ranges lifestyle an easy stroll from the local preschool, cafes, shops, public transport, and medical facilities, this is the perfect position for this forever family home.

First impressions count, and this home’s inviting foyer with sweeping staircase and built-in storage wins in every way. The familyfocused floorplan has been extensively renovated and freshly painted throughout. The generous lounge with tile flooring and floor to ceiling windows leads into the open concept hub of the home. Comprising the dining area, family room with wood fire, and stunning new kitchen featuring 2-pack joinery finish, leathered granite benchtops, large island bench with seating, quality Fisher & Paykel induction cooktop and oven, and Bosch dishwasher, this space is certain to inspire the cook of the family. With views of the stunning garden with paved patio, cubby house, wood sheds, veggie beds, and private bridge across the creek bed, this is the best spot to curl up with a cuppa while the kids play in the garden. Completing the ground floor are a stylish guest powder room and modern laundry that leads to the large covered alfresco.

Upstairs, there are 4 richly carpeted bedrooms with built-in robes on offer, highlighted by the main bedroom featuring a walk-in robe and luxe rain shower ensuite. The shared family bathroom with quality fixtures is adorned with a soaking tub and separate WC for convenience.

The long list of supplementary features includes new heat exchange unit, evaporative cooling and rear garage roller door.

This home offers a rare ticket into this tightly held pocket of homes, so don’t delay, plan your viewing today. ●

Original,timelessandfilledwithanabundanceofageoldcharacter,thisspacioushome hasseenmanyyearsofloveandlaughterandisnowreadyforitsnewfamilytostepinside andcreatetheirforeverhome. Positionedwithinastone’sthrow(literally!)fromUpwey’smainstreetandjustaquickwalk tothelocaltrainstationandschools,locationisabigplusforthisproperty.

SharynChandler M 0439882442| E sharyn@chandlerandco.com.au

Thismagnificent10-acrepropertyculminatingatscenicWooriYallockCreekisa breathtakingportionoftheDandenongRangesnottobemissed.Punctuatedbyaquality craftedmudbrickandweatherboardresidence,thisisacountry-feelpropertyimmersedin exquisitelocalfloraandfauna.

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

DanielSteen M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

FORSALE

67MartinStreet,BELGRAVE $720,000-$780,000

AFINEFORAYINTOFABULOUSHILLSLIVING

3 A 1 B 1 C

Withmove-inreadyfinishesandamarvellouspositionwithinwalkingdistanceofBelgrave OutdoorPool,BorthwickPark,andBelgrave’strainstation,shopping,andentertainment precinct,thishomeisanoutstandingwayintothiswonderfullocale.

SuzieBrannelly

M 0490506910| E suzie@chandlerandco.com.au

208Emerald-MonbulkRoad,MONBULK $660,000-$720,000

MOVE-INREADYHOMENEARMONBULKAMENITIES

3 A 1 B 1 C

Thisdelightful¼acrepropertyencapsulateswhatDandenongRangeslivingisallabout. Witharefreshedresidencetuckedwithinaleafylandscapemomentsfromshopping, schools,cafes,andtransport,thisenticingpropertyisaspaceforrestandrelaxationinlush naturalsurrounds.Theinteriorofthisstylishhomemakesiteasytoimaginelivinghere.

BradConder

M 0422639115| E brad@chandlerandco.com.au

DanielSteen M 0434979142| E daniel@chandlerandco.com.au

BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED FIVE BEDROOM HOME

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 hardwood 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 outcall 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. ●

Lovely3BedroomHomeorSubdividethisNearly¾AcreFlatBlock(STCA).

WalktotheCockatooamenitieswhilstenjoyingnearly¾ofanacreoffullyfenced flatyard.Or considerthepossibilitiesofsubdividing(STCA)withthe‘NeighbourhoodResidentialZoning’.This logcabindesignhome,offers3generousbedrooms,allwithBIRs&accesstothewraparound verandah.Freshlypaintedinternally,enjoythevaultedceilings,&cosyuptothewood fire.There isanupdatedbathroomwithwalkinshower&handshower.ThereisanL-shapedloungeroom/ diningroomwithgasheating&airconditioning,&kitchenwithelectricoven.Thereisagreatrear entertainingdeckoverlookingtheyardfulloffruittrees,&rollinglawn.Alsosituatedtowardsthe rearoftheblockisamudbrickstudio,completewithpower&electricheater,adjacenttoadouble carport/storagearea&therearealso3gardensheds.

Beautifullyupdated5bedroomfamilyhomeonalmostanacre!

Thehomehasamasterbedroomwithensuiteatoneend,centralopenplanliving&diningarea, throughto4bedrooms&asecondliving/entertainingarea.Themasterbedroomisspaciouswith ceilingfan,largeBIR&ensuite.Thereisanoffice/bedroom&thenthehouseopensupwithagreat entertainingspace.The firstloungeroomhasawood fireheaterforcosynightsin&hardwood flooring.Thereisductedheatingthroughoutforyearroundcomfort.Thereisafamilybathroom, &separatetoilet.Thenthroughtothesurpriseentertaining/secondloungeroomwithbuiltinbar &directaccesstothefrontdecking.ExternallyisaDLUGwithdirecthouseaccess.Thereare establishedabovegroundvegetablegardens,orchardareaoffruittrees&awoodshed&garden shed.Withallmainsservicesconnected&anexternalgeneratorplug.

TidyandMoveinReadyFamilyHome!

Thislovely3bedroom,2bathroomfamilyhomehasamasterbedroomwithsplitsystemair conditioning,&anensuite&WIR.Thekitchen&diningareaistiled,whilstthereisthecomfortof carpetinthebedrooms&loungeroomarea.Thishomeiscosywithductedheatingthroughout&a furthersplitsystemairconditionerinthediningroom.Thesecond&thirdbedroomsbothofferBIRs, &utilisethefamilybathroomwhichhasacornerspabathwithashoweroverthespa,&aseparate toilet.Thereisalsoahandydoorouttothebackyardfromthelaundry.Theloungeroomoffers accesstothe flat,fullyfencedrearyardthroughaslidingglassdoor.Thereisaconcretedoffstreet parkingarea&apedestriangateallowingdirectbackyardaccess.Thishomeislocatedinwalking distancetoBeaconhillsprivateschoolandclosetothesportingprecinct.

Perfecthomeforwalktotownconvenienceandlowmaintenanceliving! Thisgorgeous3bedroom,2bathroomhomeismoveinready.Withabitumendriveway&DLUGwith entrydoortothehome,thefrontyardislandscaped&lowmaintenance.Themasterbedroomhasa ceilingfan,&WIRaswellasanensuite.ThefurthertwobedroomsbothhaveBIRs.Thekitchenisfully equippedwithalargeislandbench,electricoven,gasstovetop,&stainless-steeldishwasher.Being openplanwiththeloungeroomforseamlessentertaining,&therearetwoslidingdoorsfromthe loungeouttotherearentertainingareaordirectlytothebackyard.Relax&unwindinthelounge roomasyouenjoythewood fireplace,orusethesplitsystemairconditionerorductedgasheating that’spresentthroughoutthehome.Thereisalsoastudyforyourworkfromhomeconvenience.This propertyisashortstrolltoalltheamenitiesofGembrookmainstreet.

105WooriYallockRoad,Cockatoo$780,000-$840,000

SamanthaScott M 0438680032

18VistaCourt,Gembrook$750,000-$820,000

Placing your classified advert is so easy...

The Cardinia Foundation Ltd Community Grants Program 2023

Applications open 1st May 2023

Applications close 5.00pm 31st May 2023

The Cardinia Foundation Ltd is a philanthropic community foundation, raising funds for local community groups throughout the Cardinia Shire, with funds dispersed through an annual grants program. Established in 2003, the foundation aims to support the social, community and physical development of the Cardinia Shire.

Community groups, charities and not-for-profit organisations are invited to apply for a grant in this year’s program. The Community Grants Program aims to support projects for Community health, seniors, Disability, Disadvantage, Youth, Arts and Men's Health across the Cardinia Shire region.

How to apply:

1. The ‘Grant Guidelines’ MUST be read before completing the application.

2. Application forms MUST be submitted on a Grant Application.Available by downloading on website under grants or by request from admin@cardiniafoundation.org

3. Late applications will not be accepted; applications MUST be submitted and received by email on or before 5:00 pm 31st May 2023.

4. Shortlisted applicants will be notified and may be requested to provide additional documentation such as; annual reports, financial statements, letters of support, information brochures, evidence of DGR endorsement etc.

Announcement of successful applicants will be made during June 2023. Please refer to our website www.cardiniafoundation.org and proceed to the Grants section for an Application Guide and Application form. Applications will close at 5.00pm on 31st May 2023

Please direct any queries to the Executive Officer on email admin@cardiniafoundation.org

“What have you done today to make you feel proud?”

Parkrun coming to Dam

By Tanya Steele

Avid runners may want to head to the Maroondah Dam in Healesville for a Parkrun event.

The globally renowned Parkrun has been announced to commence in Heasleville at the iconic and spectacular Maroondah Dam on Saturday 27 May at 8am. Organiser and Healesville resident Stuart Rainbow is happy the well known recreational run will have a place in Healesville for the first time.

“No one will be getting a personal best from it, but the run with its amazing scenery will be spectacular,” he said.

“I think it is one of the most amazing spots to have a run.”

Mr Rainbow is a long time runner himself and thanks Eastern Health for contributing funding towards getting things going.

“We couldn’t have done it without them,” he said.

Lesley Grimes at the Belgravia Leisure Center was part of the collaboration with Mr Rainbow, Eastern Health and Yarra Ranges Council to get the event off the ground.

“We’re really excited that it’s happening, Parkrun is a real community and all volunteer based,” Ms Grimes.

Not just about running, Parkrun is an inclusive way to get your exercise done and also connect with people.

“You can go for a Saturday morning work and I think it will be a great way for people to come and connect,” Mr Rainbow said.

People can walk, jog or run and bring their children in a pram along as well, there is no time limit and nobody finishes last.

Parkrun was founded originally in 2004 in London, England by Paul Sinton-Hewitt and has grown to take place across over 2,000 locations in 22 countries across the globe.

Australia joined in the fun in 2011 and over 5 million runners had registered for it by 2018.

Mr Rainbow has been preparing to launch the Parkrun for over a year and looked at a few

different sites before settling on Maroondah Dam.

“Maroondah Dam ticked all the boxes, it has all the amenities,” he said.

“It is such a magnificent run, it is just stunning,” he said.

Mr Rainbow hopes people locally and visiting will enjoy the location and the exercise

and that it will benefit Healesville.

“I wanted to give something back to the community and generate something for Healesville that will last forever hopefully,” he said.

People can register on the Parkrun website now and change their location to Maroondah Dam in a few weeks when the site goes

live officially.

Mr Rainbow encourages people who would like to volunteer to get in the register for a day or two.

The first run will take place on Saturday, May 27 and people need to bring their registered barcode along for the day.

“People are in for a treat,” Mr Rainbow said.

Chilly, hilly cross country fun in sun warms us up

By Jamie Strudley

This week’s Saturday morning cross country had everything that makes cross country running fantastic. A cold morning broken by warm sunshine as athletes prepare for their events. A challenging, hilly course around Morrison Reserve parkland encompassing some mud, water crossing and plenty of ups and downs and athletes, young and old, all with a smile on their face after conquering the course.

It is all part of the fun Yarra Ranges Athletics creates every Saturday morning. With distances over 500m, 1000m, 1500m, 2000m and 3000m, there is something for everyone regardless of age or ability Anyone and everyone is invited to participate or help run the events. This week was Morrison Reserve, Mt Evelyn, next week we return to Lillydale Lake for the first opportunity for a PB and claim a chocolate frog or mintie reward.

Congratulations to everyone who ran, marshalled or supported this week. Anyone wanting and able to help with setup can join from 7.30am or add your name to the helpers list via socials media.

Training continues for all club members on Tuesday from 5.30pm at Morrison Reserve and Thursday evenings from 5.30pm at Victoria Road Primary School gym with the emphasis changing to prepare for cross country. Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability.

If you, or someone you know, wants to join in the fun of cross country email info@ yarrarangesathletics.org.au for information about events and registration.

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.

Mr Rainbow is a long time runner.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Athletes starting their second lap at Morrison Reserve.

Picture: SUPPLIED

SPORT

Olinda women dominate

After only two quarters of footy over the past fortnight, it’s fair to say the Olinda girls were pretty keen to get out and have a kick. The coaching staff were wondering whether or not we would need to get out the rule book to remind players how to play the game.

These fears were short lived, though, as a perfect ruck clearance in the first 15 seconds saw the ball end up with Olivia (The Weapon) Edwards who promptly kicked a goal on the run.

Chelsea (The Big Kohoona) Wilson then proceeded to win every tap to generate clearances at will. Captain Courageous Claire Hyett loved the ball being handed to her on a plate and delivered the ball forward for DJ Ness (Mrs Curnow) Bateman and The Weapon. Amalija (Mars) Kostich proved to be a strong physical presence and Lucy (yet-to-be-nicknamed) Hilton, was a clear head with seemingly more time than anyone else to find a way through traffic. A six goal first quarter with strong intent was the best start to a game for some time.

Complacency crept in through the second quarter as players rushed forward without structure. While it was still a four-goal quarter, the coaches were looking for the style of football the Olinda girls will need in the coming weeks against ladder leaders. Instead, the intensity dropped away. There were no broken phones in the coach’s box, but the coaches really wanted the team to re-focus at half time on playing with intent at the contest with fast ball movement.

The third quarter saw a return to the relentless running and ball movement with the players understanding that they needed to control the game, their ball usage and the delivery forward.

Caretaker assistant coach, Leroy Monkhorst really wanted to see the girls communicating and working to get the ball moving quickly from the contest to the outside runners and Laser Lily Carlin proved to be a great target to get the ball forward. Not only is her kicking elite, but she marked and tackled all day, giving the Monbulk wings no respite.

As a side note, Leroy was seen out at Emerald on Sunday, reminding anyone who’d listen of his unblemished 2023 assistant coaching record, after another strong U13s win. Rumour has it, super-assistant coach, Sacha Sullivan has been checking the fine print of his contract!

Anja (Onions) Hulston ran the other wing against the highly touted Monbulk wing and she shut down much of their forward movement, while winning her own ball. She is coming into her own with her relentless pressure that makes opposition cry!

The final quarter saw the flood gates open with seven goals, 20 for the match. A nice return and reward for effort.

DJ Ness finished with five for the game with her partner in crime, The Weapon, kicking three. Leah Cody rolled forward from defence for three goals herself. It was pretty quiet for our dour defenders so Casey (Sugar) Seymour quietly slipped forward for two goals of her own.

Our part timers, Grace Belloni and Georgia Stubbs were invaluable assets with high marking, long kicking and clean hands around the contest; Grace also kicked three goals. Imagine what they’d be like if they played for Olinda every week!

The mosquito fleet of Kyah (The Missile) Barry and Ruby (Barb) Gilson were instrumental providing defensive efforts whilst also winning the ball at the source and being link up players with laser like handball and precision kicking. Both scored goals.

Longtime defender Laura Clarke has scored goals in the team’s last two outings and can’t work out why people seem to think goal kicking is hard. At the other end of the ground, young guns Anna Hughson and Chloe Kanally are proving to be two of the toughest players in Olinda jumpers.

So whilst the score line was great for Olinda supporters, the coaches were more impressed with the girls’ intensity with a really challenging three weeks of footy ahead of the mid sea-

son break. Credit also to Monbulk who fought all game despite the score line.

Olinda 20.16.136 def Monbulk 0.0.0

Juniors

U9s

In perfect conditions, the young Bloods headed to Emerald to lock horns with the Bombers.

Dry weather football meant the crowd were entertained with exquisite skills and football trickery.

It what can only be described as an arm wrestle, both clubs landed goals a plenty and showed why they are both premiership contenders in the 9’s competition for 2023.

The young Bloods again showed incredible sportsmanship and were all smiles in the process.

U11s

After a busy morning making breakfast for their mums, the U11s raced out to Emerald to take on one of the tougher teams in their competition. The boys put together a solid game of footy for all but the second quarter where Emerald kicked 3.4, which in the game in the end was too much to fight back. A good effort against a tough team.

U12

Girls had a well earned bye after their massive win last week.

U13

Boys Red

The good form of the Under 13 boys continued as they took on Emerald in lovely conditions for their Mother’s Day clash.

The heat was on early as Emerald brought the pressure and started well. Olinda’s boys took a little while to respond, but when they did, the response was impressive.

Ollie Wilford and Spencer Garratt both had their best games of the season whilst Ned Monkhorst was rock solid across half back. Kaden Johnston was outstanding in the ruck and Ollie Haines was finding lots of space on the wing creating lots of run an opportunities for Olinda’s forwards.

Another really strong performance.. Final score Olinda 14.16.100 def Emerald 2.2.14

U14

Girls headed out to Emerald to have another crack at their bigger, strong opposition and the coaches could see from the outset that the girls’ game is developing every session with some great passages of play and ball movement. An early goal to Franki Edquist had the crowd on their feet, whilst new recruit Joni Wooden proved to be a find of the team with pace and aggression around the contest. The most impressive part of the game, though, was having 17 players available to play with another two available next week. Numbers are building and this will enable the girls to develop as a unit and continue to improve every week. Well done girls!

U15

Boys

Round five saw Olinda off to Emerald to celebrate Mother’s Day with a hard fought, impressive win. We kicked the first three goals of the game and although Emerald came at the Bloods hard in the second and third quarters Olinda was up to the challenge and steadily grew our lead until the final siren.

Our defenders were outstanding again, led by the ever reliable Will Meyer who ran in straight lines and met the ball with commitment.

Our relentless midfielders dominated clearance and contested ball and were superbly led by Aden Bates (37 possessions, two goals) who played one of the great captain’s games, while Olinda’s forwards always looked dangerous with creative Jesse Dester kicking three goals and dynamic full forward River Bellemo kicking two.

The boys will be sore after such a bruising (but fair) encounter and can take enormous confidence from their courage and commitment.

Thank you beautiful Olinda mothers for birthing such impressive young men. Olinda 9.13.67 d Emerald 4.9.33.

Monbulk players take to the court and field

Round four was OEFN Pride Round.

Pride Round at Monbulk FNC means inclusivity, belonging, representation, and acknowledging people from LGBTQI+ communities and their contributions to our game. We consistently aim to signal that we want all people to feel welcome and valued in our game, as players, fans, members and officials. Monbulk is proud to support the LGBTQI+ community in every aspect of this great game. The club focuses on creating a safe environment where everyone feels welcomed and supported, and hopes that people can come to Monbulk and just be their truest unfiltered self, and know that their individuality is celebrated and that they belong.

Football match reports:

Seniors

The weather gods were in a good mood and ideal conditions greeted the sides under blue skies at the Monbulk Recreation Reserve. Monbulk wore black armbands for two of Monbulk’s significant figures who had passed away during the week as the community lost RSL President Bill Ford and former captaincoach from the 1950s in Don Matthews. Monbulk faced one of the premiership favourites, Wandin, and were decisively beaten by one of the best combinations in the League. The Bulldogs precision play often found a way through the Hawks’ defences where they were able to create space in the forward 50. The endeavour of the Monbulk players couldn’t be questioned but the execution of their systems buckled under the constant rebounding play. Monbulk lost gutsy youngster Ben Hughson to a broken collarbone in the third quarter, as they mounted a challenge, and will also miss tackling machine Nic Wall as he heads overseas after this match. The Hawks have a bye next week as they regroup to face Mt. Evelyn in two weeks for the annual Bendigo Bank Challenge Cup.

Monbulk 5.10.40 def by Wandin 18.21.129

Best: Dylan Werts, Glenn Strachan, Lo-

chlan Beecroft, Mackay Bateson, Kai Linde, Ethan Greenall

Goals: Mackay Bateson 2, Glenn Strachan 2, Lachlan Sheppard 1

Reserves

The Monbulk seconds rebounded from last weeks’ reverse, and ground out a solid 49 point win which was set up after a dominant first quarter. The Reserves had struggled for years with low numbers but now have greater depth of experienced players to bolster the side. When the team was two short it was handy when former senior captain Jared Major and four time senior best and fairest Shane Williams rock up to fill the holes. The ball movement in the clinches and on the spread consistently fed the forwards and kept Wandin under pressure as Monbulk consolidated a place in the top five.

Monbulk 9.8.62 def Wandin 1.7.13

Best: Toby Versteegen, Thomas Taylor, Hamish Emmett, Lewis Oliver, Cameron Griffiths, Michael Langworthy

Goals: Michael Langworthy 5, Kieren Galloway 1, Brodie Emmett 1, Dean White 1, Lachie Hancock-Wolfe 1

Under 19s

Monbulk’s Under 19s have been a well drilled unit over the first five weeks of the season and notched their fourth win to hold second

place on the ladder. They had five players unavailable to face Wandin as they were part of the Senior squad, with Thijs Koelewyn becoming the latest to make his firsts debut on Saturday. The remaining players show that this side has the depth and ability to have a big say in how the year pans out as they gradually drew away from a competitive Wandin side.

Monbulk 6.8 def Wandin 2.6

Best: Riley Finlay, Noah Rutherford, Nicholas Heron, Charlie Barge, Jack Downard-Pengilly, Nick Taylor

Goals: Nick Taylor 2,Will Henderson 1, Charlie Barge 1, Noah Rutherford 1, Riley Finlay 1 Womens

The Monbulk Women’s team has been facing hurdles each week as they come up against an array of strong sides. This week they faced an Olinda combination that showed no mercy and played a direct attacking game. The Hawks tried as hard at the end as when the game had started and never gave up on the contest.

Monbulk 0.0.0 def by Olinda-Ferny Creek 20.16.136

Best: Maddison Dodd, Indy Bakker, Brielle Tipping, Shaye McLean, Briannan Lambe, Ruby Ross Netball match reports:

A Grade

Monbulk celebrated Paige Whitworth’s 100th game as the future Club Hall Of Famer had achieved much in her time with the Hawks since he debut in 2012, including an A Grade League Best & Fairest, three Club A Grade Best & Fairests and captaining the club for three years. After Monbulk’s A Grade side had been soundlybeatenlastweektheyfacedtheladder leaders Wandin on Saturday. New recruit and former league goal shooting star with Olinda, Peri Reid (Stewart), made her debut for the maroon and gold. It took Monbulk a while to gel with the new structure but they stormed home with a 14-8 last quarter to nearly cause

a boilover as the Hawks fell just two goals shy of knocking off the Bulldogs.

Monbulk 42 def by Wandin 44

Best: Peri Reid, Paige Whitworth, Tiana Mancarella

Goals: Peri Reid 32, Sophie Stubbs 10

B Grade

B Grade faced a winlessWandin side that had lost to the top three undefeated clubs to date. A close game was expected and after the Bulldogs grabbed an early lead, the Hawks fought back to hit the front at three-quarter time. Unfortunately in the last termWandin played some strong netball to win the quarter 15-7 and snatch a seven-goal win.

Monbulk 41 def by Wandin 48

Best: Alice McCormick, Rihanna Kelly, Siobhan Munday

Goals: Paige Rondinella 27, Dayna Walsham 14

C Grade

The Monbulk C Grade girls came up against one of the stronger combinations with the Wandin side entrenched near the top of the ladder. The Hawks were never really able to get their game going but put in an improved effort in the second half to regain some control.

Monbulk 12 def by Wandin 44

Best: Sammi Kelly, Isabel Connell, Jess Whitworth

Goals: Sammi Kelly 8, Chloe Schmidtke 4

D Grade

Monbulk have faced some lopsided scoreboards in D Grade but they are continuing to learn the game as they try different structures. They had a fair amount of possession but weren’t able to link up all the way to goal and were then hurt on the rebound.

Monbulk 6 def by Wandin 53

Best: Kate Smith, Caitlin Utting, Eireann

Lawson

Goals: Kate Smith 3, Eireann Lawson 3

Paige Whitworth defending in the goal circle on her 100th game for Monbulk.

Picture: SUPPLIED