Upper Yarra
Tuesday, 31 October, 2023
Learning about Wayapa to connect yourself with the Earth
Meeting for high-risk Seville residents
Riders set to take on local tracks for the iconic race
See Real Estate liftout inside
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A Star News Group Publication
PR OP ER TY
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Service reduction By Callum Ludwig Yarra Ranges Council deliberated on proposed changes to their Healthy Ageing Services at the Tuesday 24 October Council meeting with an initial view to step away from providing their meals, transport and social support group programs by 30 June 2024. Two letters from community members who objected to the removal of the services did prompt a rethink, with an alternative motion passed to explore options to retain transport services. Upper Yarra resident Carol Corcoran submitted a letter which was read out at the meeting, in which she said she relies on Council’s transport to get to medical appointments and social activities such as the Wandin District Senior Citizens Club. “I recently was charged $150 for a one-way trip to Mitcham Private Hospital for example, we are not able to access taxis and even if we book them, they will not travel further than Woori Yallock and just fail to turn up at all, leaving us stranded.“ Questions asked throughout the lengthy discussion asked what options for these services would be available should Council opt
out and whether prices for the services would rise for clients. As a receiver of meals on wheels for over two years, Yarra Glen resident Noel Buchanon said it was concerning to hear the council was considering removing this as one of its services. “Most human beings, men and women, as they age do begin to experience a preference for the familiar,” he said. “When you hear in a two page letter that this is all changing, I suggest, many older people begin to worry.” Yarra Ranges Council Mayor and O’Shanassy Ward Councillor Jim Child put forward an alternative recommendation and said this opens the door for an investigation piece. “That would be for the council officers to investigate options to enable vulnerable residents in remote areas of the municipality to access transport as part of the council’s future Healthy Ageing model,” he said. “We owe it to our senior residents that we go on the journey with them through this transition.” Turn to pages 4 and 5 for more
L-R: Benji and Aisla hooped their way to the circus play.
Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG
Kids Fest fun for all By Callum Ludwig Laughter filled the air and smiles lit up little faces at the popular Woori Kids Fest event in Woori Yallock on Thursday 26 October. Families flocked from local schools and kinders to the event, revelling in everything from the petting zoo to firefighting to face painting. Hosted by the Woori Community House
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and supported by a grant from the Victorian Government, the Woori Kids Fest has become a family favourite over the years. It also serves as a great opportunity for the Woori Community House as well as other local groups and organisations to open up opportunities for local families to get involved, all in the name of fun. Turn to page 16 for more
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