Mail - Ranges Trader Star Mail - 7th November 2023

Ranges Trader

Locals can now get paid for recycling

Emerald mum shares daughter’s rare pain

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Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

Mail

A Star News Group Publication

Gembrook Primary School turns 140

Real Estate liftout inside

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PROPERTY PAGE 31 GUIDE

PROPERTY

Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808

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Good cheer It was a weekend full of sunshine, culture and good cheer in Upper Ferntree Gully for the official launch of the Coonara Community House yarning circle.

Saturday 28 October saw Coonara welcome several locals of the community to come together and celebrate indigenous culture, community and connections. The day was described as ‘absolutely beautiful’ by the over 250 people who attended, and was warmly welcomed by the team at Coonara, who have put months of hard work into this project leading up to its launch.

Celebrations included indigenous dance performances, bush tukker lunch, and a smoking ceremony performed by local indigenous elders.

Read more about the event on page 14

Dancing performance after the unveiling 364517

Hills’ helping hand to Queensland in recent days, with a fire truck from the Olinda Fire Station arriving in Queensland to help with efforts on the ground.

On Friday 3 November, Olinda Rural Fire Station shared in a Facebook post that the truck had made it to Gladstone - a mere 2172 kms away from its starting location in the Hills.

Since the truck arrived in Gladstone, locals Victorian crews will start working over the weekend on the Queensland blazes - including several from the Dandenongs as part of

District 13.

Olinda CFA captain Phil Skinner said “our crews from District 13 in the Hills, alongside other districts in Victoria, will work on a rotation to go and crew our truck while it’s up there and support the Queensland crews,” he said.

Crews will be deployed from Olinda Seville, Hillcrest, Mt Evelyn and Rowville to support the truck. Queensland residents are not yet out of the woods, as fires continue to burn

across the state.

Of biggest concern is a blaze that has been rampaging across Tara, Queensland, leaving a path of destruction in its wake.

It is one of approximately 40 other fires reported around Queensland in the final days of October, with an estimated 30 other fires having been reported in New South Wales in recent days.

Read more about the situation on page 6

Think RESULTS Think BELL

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The Dandenongs are doing their bit to help the wider East Coast of Australia as fire season comes to a blazing start.

Fire season has kicked off early, with several fires having been reported around New South Wales and Queensland in recent weeks, which have already burned across several thousand hectares and left devastation to locals, as the weather continues to get warmer.

Victoria’s very own CFA District 13 has been recruited to send support crews up

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We serve East Gippsland on a plate, inspired by the amazing ingredients at our doorstep.

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NEWS

IN BRIEF

Hard to contain joy at deposit scheme

By Tyler Wright

In times of crisis, you can give

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Police are trying to locate the owner of an iPad handed into the Mooroolbark Police Station in September. If you are the Owner please contact the Property Officer at Mooroolbark on 9725 9999, Property reference number 202309-E0904 From left to right: Rear - Marcus Adams (Rotary Emerald and District), Russell Marnock (Rotary Emerald & District & Dandenong Ranges Renewable Energy Association), Graeme Legge (Dandenong Ranges Renewable Energy Association), Mitchell Edwards (Emerald SES), Olinka Edwards (Emerald SES), Peter Maloney (Emerald Village Association), Graeme Eadie (DRREA) and Mary Farrow (Emerald Community House). Left to right: Front - Peter Cook and Marion Cook Picture: GARY SISSONS (Boomerang Alliance). 370595 Belgrave-Gembrook Road, will be open from 6pm to 9pm on Mondays, 5pm to 9pm on Wednesdays, 11am to 4pm on Thursdays, and 5pm to 9pm on Fridays.

Ms Edwards said money donated from the scheme will help put petrol in the unit’s trucks, chainsaws and other equipment to help the community.

“By them coming to us, into the door, they get to see what our facilities are like, they get to see members in person and also perhaps even join up,” she said.

Reverse vending machines, depots, overthe-counter sites, and pop-up refund points will be the four ways people can return their eligible containers – and depending on the type of refund point, people can choose whether they want to receive the refund in the form of cash, a retail voucher, or an electronic refund.

Victorians can also choose to donate their refund to a charity or community organisation registered with the scheme.

Eligible containers include non-concentrated fruit or vegetable juice, flavoured milk, beer, soft drink and mixed spirits.

Ineligible containers for refund include glass wine bottles, glass spirit bottles, juice bottles over one litre, cordial bottles, milk (other than flavoured milk), concentrated fruit or vegetable juice and health tonics.

VicReturn is the scheme coordinator, while zone operators Return-It, TOMRA Cleanaway, and Visy will establish and oversee the refund

points and refunds to customers, as well as ensuring proper recycling of the containers.

Within nine months of the scheme starting, the zone operators will be required to have a minimum of one collection point per 14,500 people in metropolitan areas, at least one per town of 750 people in regional areas, and at least one per town of 350 people in remote areas.

Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos said the state government’s Container Deposit Scheme will reduce the amount of litter in Victoria by up to half - contributing to a “more sustainable future“ while putting money “back in the pockets“ of hardworking Victorians.

“CDS Vic will maximise the number of cans, bottles and cartons being recycled into new products and keep them out of landfill,” Mr Dimopoulos said.

IGA Cockatoo on Fairbridge Lane and Emerald Wellness Pharmacy on Belgrave-Gembrook Road are among the participating drop off points.

Monbulk Cellars is also taking part.

To find a drop off location near you, visit cdsvic.org.au/locations and type in your postcode or suburb name.

Refund points - are evolving and will be updated on the CDS site daily.

Return - it has an app available on both Android and iOS which the public can use to receive electronic payments, track their refunds and find refund points.

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Three CFA units responded to a child trapped on a roof on Belgrave-Gembrook Road in Emerald at around 5.10pm on Wednesday 1 November, the CFA has confirmed. “Units were from Emerald and Clematis,” a CFA spokesperson told the Star Mail. “Ambulance Victoria was also on scene.” The incident was deemed safe at 5.20pm.

Information required Police are investigating reports of a series of burglaries that have occurred in Pakenham, Emerald and Koo Wee Rup. It is believed that as yet unidentified offenders have attended and broken into several businesses in Pakenham, Emerald and Koo Wee Rup from the 27th of October to the 29th of October 2023. Police want to speak with anyone who can assist with their inquiries. Anyone with information urged to contact Cardinia Crime Investigation Unit on 5945 2500, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au

Highway Patrol report 4/5 November A 56-year-old male driver was detected speeding at 81 km/h in a 60 km/h zone on Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd, Sherbrooke, The man was found to be disqualified from driving and returned a positive result for illicit drugs. His car was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1006.

He will be charged with all alleged offences.

At a Preliminary Breath Testing (PBT) site in Wantirna South on Sunday, police stopped a motorist who later returned an Evidentiary Breath Test (EBT) result of 0.131. The 53-yearold female driver had her licence suspended and she will be charged with drink-driving.

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A man and woman are facing over 30 serious charges, after officers from the Dandenong Achilles Taskforce uncovered a cache of firearms and weapons during raids on Thursday.

The 21-year-old male and 23-year-old female, both from Bayswater North, are also facing the unusual charge of setting a trap to cause serious injury, with police to allege the outer fencing of their address was deliberately manipulated with hundreds of metal nails to inflict serious injury.

Investigators originally commenced investigating the duo in relation to a hoon driving event in Licola Crescent, Dandenong South on 11 April 2023. After investigating this event and further alleged criminal activity, investigators executed an early morning search warrant at an Anderson Close, Bayswater North address on Thursday.

During the search, police seized a loaded handgun, handgun ammunition and shotgun cartridges, 12 prohibited weapons, including nine knuckledusters, two extendable batons and a flick knife, alleged proceeds of crime, including a $40,000 Rolex watch, $10,000 diamond bracelet, and $27,750 in cash and an ounce of white powder believed to be cocaine.

A 19-year-old female and 21-year-old male from Rowville were also arrested but have been released pending enquiries.

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Community members in the Dandenong Ranges are celebrating the beginning of a positive era for the environment as the state’s Container Deposit Scheme begins.

To mark the kick off of the program - which will see Victorians able to receive a 10 cent refund for every container delivered to their local drop off point - locals met in Emerald on Wednesday 1 November.

Australians for Refunds on Cans and Bottles (AFROCAB) group convenor and Clematis resident Peter Cook has been advocating for the initiative for decades.

“I started in 2002 and I’ve been doing various things in that time,“ Mr Cook said.

“We published a list in The Age and the SunHerald to the premier of 240 community groups across Victoria who support this, and we also did a community litter report where we did over 50 roadside surveys around Victoria that showed how big a problem it is everywhere, numerous protests on the steps of parliament, big banners and built a boat out of cans and bottles, which we had across the Aura Vale Lake.

“We’ve done a smorgasbord of things over the years to get community support behind this and politicians on board and it’s been a long journey, but today makes all those things worthwhile.“ Speaking to locals at the Emerald SES Unit on Wednesday, Mr Cook gave a cheers for the “thousands of community groups“ around the state who have worked to stop plastics being buried in the land and ending up in rivers, creeks and oceans.

“I think what we’ll see in the weeks and months ahead is other community groups in Emerald also come on board and collecting cans and bottles from their members and their supporters,“ he said.

“It’s a way of raising funds to enable them to continue the important things that they do.

“It’s a win-win situation; it’s a win for the environment, It’s a win for the community.“ Emerald SES will be an accessible drop off point for locals, with deputy controller Olinka Edwards jumping at the chance to help the community recycle their plastics rather than dispose of them in landfill.

“When Peter contacted me, he wanted some faces of community groups that could benefit,” Ms Edwards said.

“The idea of the SES getting behind it is obviously to better our community to give people a place to go, and while they’re also coming here give them the opportunity to come face to face with some of our members and give us the opportunity for community education.

“We could never do any of these things when we were down at Sheriff Road and now we’ve got this facility here [on Belgrave-Gembrook Road] it’s like ’okay, how can we help out the community?’“ The Emerald SES Unit, located at 277-289

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NEWS

Bulk-billing incentive plan a boost for millions

By Callum Ludwig

The Data Saves Lives campaign is calling for specific road rating data to be made publicly available.

Picture: ON FILE

Violi pushes data scheme

By Callum Ludwig A campaign from the Australian Automotive Association (AAA), of which the RACV is a constituent club, is calling for more transparent data on road safety and quality nationwide.

The Data Saves Lives campaign is calling on the Federal government to compel state and territory governments to make the ratings of more than 450,000km of roads, assessed to the globally recognised standards of the International Road Assessment Program (iRAP), publicly available.

AAA Managing Director Michael Bradley said until Australia gets serious about understanding the crashes occurring today, there’s no credible plan to prevent the crashes of tomorrow.

“The Commonwealth needs to compel state and territory governments to provide data held relating to road quality, crash causation, and law enforcement, as a condition of the $10 billion in annual road funding it provides,” he said.

“Data reporting is the first step to preventing crashes and saving lives, as it will generate the evidence on which future transport policy can be based.”

According to data from the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics’s Australia Road Deaths Database (ARDD), Victoria has seen a 6.7 per cent increase in road deaths in the year to September 2023 with 269 deaths.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW)’s National Hospital Morbidity Database recorded a steady rise in annual hospitalisations due to road crashes in Australia from 2012 until 2019 before a dip in 2020, likely due to Covid-related travel restrictions. The latest data for 2021 saw incidents rise back up to almost pre-Covid levels, but it remains to be seen what the stats say for 2022 and 2023 where travel was unrestricted all year nationwide.

As part of the campaign, all Federal members were contacted to offer their support with Casey MP Aaron Violi jumping on board.

Mr Violi said he is a big believer in data because if you don’t understand and know where the problem areas are, that’s the first step you need to go and understand before you look to fix an issue.

“I think it’s crucial, there’s two key elements to making it public and available and one is awareness; if people know that an intersection in their community is statistically one of the most dangerous in the country, you would hope it can play a little bit of role in mitigating their behaviour and potentially making them mailcommunity.com.au

more cautious around that intersection,” he said.

“Equally importantly, it allows communities to understand where those fatalities and injuries are happening and then advocate to myself, to state MPs, to local councils and start campaigns to get roads improved and potentially also dispel myths.

“Nothing comes to mind but potentially people might think a road is quite dangerous but it actually hasn’t had any fatalities or accidents, so it’s not as big of a priority as we think it might be.”

The Australian Government is working with states and territories on an Intergovernmental Road Safety Data Sharing Agreement as part of the National Road Safety Action Plan 2023-25.

A government spokesperson said national road safety data harmonisation is a focus.

“The Australian Government is working alongside states and territories to finalise the Intergovernmental Road Safety Data Sharing Agreement, which will be signed off at the end of the year,” they said.

“The Agreement will enable the collection, storage, use and sharing of road safety data sets by the already established National Road Safety Data Hub.” The National Road Safety Action Plan is agreed to by all state and territories, and local governments through the Australian Local Government Association, while the Federal government is also negotiating the next fiveyear National Partnership Agreement on Land Transport Infrastructure Projects, which will come into effect in July 2024.

Mr Violi said he thinks having a nationally consistent standard is crucial, particularly at the federal level where they’re making decisions across the country to allocate funding.

“If there’s different ratings between states then you get skewed data and you’re not working on the same information,” he said.

“Having a report that only goes to the minister or the government of the day doesn’t engender confidence within the community, so whatever they develop, my strong belief is it needs to be transparent and publicly available to all communities.

“I hope they can come together and implement this, this should be above politics, and it’s not about the parties, it’s about delivering better results for our communities and accurately understanding and mapping where these incidents are coming out.”

At the time of writing 45 per cent of MPs support the campaign, mostly Liberal and Independent MPs.

The Australian Government has reduced the cost of a visit to a GP for millions of Australians, tripling the incentives for GPs to bulk bill children under 16, pensioners and other concession cardholders from 1 November.

The start of the month also marked the start of the indexation boost to Medicare payments announced in the 2023-24 Budget in May. Health Minister Mark Butler said bulk billing is the beating heart of Medicare and Labor will always strengthen it.

“The tripling of the bulk billing incentive will help over 5 million children and their families, and more than 7 million pensioners and concession card holders to see a bulk billed GP,” he said.

“Doctors’ groups have called this a ‘game-changer’ and GPs right around the country have said this will help them maintain and even shift back to bulk billing.”

The bulk billing incentive increases with the rurality of the practice, increasing to between $6.85 to $20.65 in metro areas and from $13.15 to $39.70 in very remote areas, and is paid on top of the Medicare patient rebate for a GP consultation.

President Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Dr Nicole Higgins said it is a critical stopgap to slow the decline in bulk billing.

“Bulk billing has declined significantly in recent years because Medicare rebates have been below inflation for years, and are nowhere near the cost of care. GPs have been subsidising the full cost of care every time they bulk bill their patients,” she said.

“We don’t like to think in these terms, but if people delay care due to costs, health issues can progress and not just cause more harm, but increase the strain on hospitals and cost more for the health system to address.

“The average cost to the government for a non-admitted emergency department presentation in 2020-21 was $611, yet it costs the government just $79.70 to support a patient to spend 20–40 minutes with their GP.” The new changes have the following effects: A 20-minute in a major city will provide 34 per cent to the doctor and take the Medicare payment for eligible patients to $62.05.

In regional and rural Australia, the doctor will get 50 per cent more for the same length visit, with the Medicare payment rising to between $72.80 and $81.10, location dependent.

A new rebate for consultations that stretch over an hour will give patients

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Children under 16, pensioners and concession cardholders will benefit from an increased bulk billing incentive for GP visits.

Picture: ON FILE back $191.20.

Casey MP Aaron Violi, who had recently published a column in the Star Mail concerned with the rising costs of a GP visit, said while the headline is quite impressive, the detail isn’t actually as generous as they’re making out.

“There’s no doubt children under 16, pensioners and Commonwealth concession card holders will benefit and it’s great that they are benefiting, but my question is why not make it available to all Australians,” he said.

“It’s not just those groups that are struggling with the cost of living crisis that we’re going through and it’s more expensive than ever for anyone to visit a GP. “Increasing the bulk billing incentive is a start for these cohorts, but it doesn’t address the availability concerns that we have in our community, we don’t have a major hospital within our electorate and it looks like there is no plan for this government to put an urgent care clinic into our community.”

The nearest Urgent Care Clinic that has been opened is in Narre Warren, with the Australian Government planning to have 58 opened by the end of 2023. There are currently 23 open nationwide, and nine in Victoria. The locations of those to come have not been revealed.

Mr Violi said another concern has been that for some programs the electorate is considered Metropolitan Melbourne and for others, it is considered more regional overall.

“Where that line is drawn is really important, we know Yarra Junction has previously had some challenges with doctor availability because they were ineligible for some incentives, they weren’t considered regional or rural and that was adjusted,” he said.

“We’ve got to continue to watch where that line is and where those decisions are made because it is crucial to our community.”

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NEWS

Hills lends a hand

By Tanya Faulkner The Dandenongs are doing their bit to help the wider East Coast of Australia as fire season comes to a blazing start.

Several fires have been reported around New South Wales and Queensland, already burning across several thousand hectares and leaving devastation as the weather continues to get warmer.

District 13 have been recruited to send support crews to Queensland in recent days, with a fire truck from the Olinda Fire Station on its way to aid fire fighting efforts in the state.

Olinda CFA captain Phil Skinner said their truck has been deployed up to Queensland.

“The truck was originally going to Rockhampton.

On Friday 3 November, Olinda Rural Fire Station shared that the truck had made it to Gladstone - a mere 2172 kms away from its starting location.

Now that the truck has arrived, crews will start working over the weekend on the Queensland blazes.

“Our crews from District 13 in the Hills, alongside other districts in Victoria, will work on a rotation to go and crew our truck while it’s up there and support the Queensland crews,” he said.

Crews will be deployed from Olinda Seville, Hillcrest, Mt Evelyn and Rowville to support the truck.

Brigades in the Hills are regularly deployed to help other municipalities across Victoria, as well as going interstate to help with firefighting efforts over the summer season.

Mr Skinner said brigades in the Dandenongs are quite fortunate to have such a big placement of CFAs in the area.

“We’re quite lucky, we can draw on another 15 brigades in the area to help us out.

“Missing one truck out of our area doesn’t

Fires continue to burn throughout Queensland.

Picture: SUPPLIED

cause many issues, we’re very lucky in that respect.

“We have a lot of resources and crews to draw on here to support the Dandenongs, and support Queensland as well,” he said.

Up in Queensland, residents are not yet out of the woods, as fires continue to burn across the state.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) has extended a local fire ban for Central Region residents.

A local fire ban has been put in place until 2359hrs on Tuesday 7 November.

The local fire ban also includes residents in the Woorabinda Aboriginal Shire Council area, along with the Rockhampton, Livingstone, Mackay, Whitsundays, Isaac, Central Highlands, Barcaldine, Blackall-Tambo, Longreach, Barcoo, Winton, Gladstone and Banana Local Government Areas.

The Bureau of Meteorology had forecast a hot, windy week with temperatures in the high 30s and a wind change from the North/Northwest arriving mid-week.

Weather conditions eased slightly overnight on Tuesday 31st October, but Queensland’s bushfire emergency is not yet over.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has paid tribute to fire crews who have fought 900 blazes in a dozen days.

Relief firefighters from Victoria have begun arriving and are heading directly to the firefronts to help get the situation under control.

The main fire that has been causing concern has been rampaging across Tara, Queensland, leaving a path of destruction in its wake.

It is one of approximately 40 other fires burning around Queensland, with an estimated 30 other fires having been reported in New South Wales in recent days.

According to reports from Queensland, the loss of homes in Tara from the recent fires on Queensland’s Western Downs has already surpassed the total number of homes lost during the Black Summer fire season of 2019.

Reports said 53 homes have been destroyed in the community, displacing approximately 2,000 residents, compared to 49 across the state in 2019.

Interstate rivals, but mates on firefront

Several fire crews from Queensland and Victoria are on the ground protecting locals.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Learn Local honours a Basin legend Students, teachers and Learn Local providers will be recognised for their inspirational efforts in Victoria’s adult and community education sector at this year’s Learn Local Awards.

Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney congratulated the 25 finalists for the 17th Annual Learn Local Awards, acknowledging their remarkable contribution to their communities. Included in the honours was local legend Heather McTaggart of The Basin Community House, nominated for the Victorian Learn Local Leadership Award.

“Learn Locals are helping people to transform their lives through community-based education that is focused on the individual needs of learners,” Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino said.

“Congratulations to all the award finalists this year, particularly local legend Heather McTaggart, and thank you for going the extra mile to help Victorians access the skills they need to achieve their goals in work and in life.”

The awards recognise Victorians across eight categories, highlighting the achievements of learners, trainers and leaders, as well as programs and partnerships throughout the year.

The breadth of programs and locations represented among the finalists illustrates the significant impact of adult and community education among Victorians.

With 10 of the finalists from regional Victoria, the awards showcase the extensive reach of Learn Locals – from Mildura and Wodonga to Geelong, to Sale and Orbost in the Gippsland region.

Learn Local plays a critical role in Victoria’s post-secondary system, offering a unique community-based learning option with a focus on the individual needs of learners. More than 240 not-for-profit community organisations are registered as Learn Locals.

“These awards are a wonderful opportunity for the ACFE Board to recognise the inspirational individuals, programs and providers that are part of the Learn Local sector. Congratulations to all finalists!” Adult, Community and Further Board Chair Teresa De Fazio said.

The awards prize pool offers a total of $84,000, with organisation award category winners receiving $10,000, individual category winners $5,000 and category finalists $1,000.

Winners will be announced at the 2023 Learn Local Awards gala ceremony to be held on 24 November. See the finalists and find out more at: vic.gov.au/ learn-local-awards.

Heather McTaggart has been nominated for a Learn Local award in the leadership category.

Picture: ON FILE Fire fighters worked through the days and nights to control the blaze.

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Trucks and crews have been deployed from Victoria’s District 13. mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Community the best salve STORM TALK Community is strong in the Dandenong Ranges. And when it comes to shared experiences of hard times and disasters, Ranges communities have always been there to help each other get through.

In the aftermath of the 2021 storms and Covid, community has been central to the recovery effort. One important site for this has been the work of the Hills Community Recovery Committee. Supported by the Yarra Ranges Council, this group of locals helping locals has been crucial in aiding people across the Ranges to get back on their feet.

Central to the committees was the idea that, when disasters happen again, communities should know what recovery might look like and how community could work together to achieve that.

“The committees are really focused on community well-being,” Hills committee member Alex Grunwald said.

“Most of the projects were around community connectedness and that’s obviously really important for social well-being.

“The committees are made up of community members and we ask people and groups to come forward with ideas and then fund those ideas. So it does serve really well to maintain a level of activity in the community.”

With the help of the Bendigo Bank’s Community Enterprise Foundation, the committees have helped facilitate multiple new community initiatives in the Hills area. The many and varied projects include a new exercise group, support for community radio station 3MDR, and the exciting Treasuring Our Trees project, which repurposes trees fallen in the storm into useful timber installations.

Being involved in helping community, and working with community, is also a way of raising awareness and preparedness for future disasters, Alex says.

“Being aware and knowing that this can happen again is a really important part of this work,” Alex said.

“I guess the best way for community to make themselves aware of natural disasters and how we should respond is for them to become active in that space themselves and to have a direct interest.

“If people are directly involved they are going to be across all the information a lot more and know how to respond when new disasters happen. That’s what recovery committees can help do.”

It’s just these kinds of community insights and learnings that a Deakin University research project currently working in Dande-

The Regional Community Recovery Committees were first established in 2021 to support the Yarra Ranges in recovery from Covid and the storms.

Picture: YARRA RANGES COUNCIL

Trees in Kalorama fell in every direction.

Picture: ON FILE

nongs is seeking to tap into.

The project ‘Awareness, education and communication for compound natural hazards’ is being conducted by researchers from Deakin with the research body, Natural Hazards Research Australia. The project wants to understand what builds communities’ awareness, preparedness and resilience when disasters happen at the same time or in quick succession.

“We have a community forum in Olinda coming up very soon,” Deakin researcher Dr Gabi Mocatta said.

STORM TALK: Learning better communication from natural disasters The project ‘Awareness, education and communication for compound natural hazards’ is conducted by Deakin University & Natural Hazards Research Australia, with support of the Ranges Trader Star Mail.

Alex Grunwald removing weeds and re-planting native vegetation in Kalorama Park after severe storm damage.

Picture: ON FILE

“We’d love community members to join us and share their thoughts on what aids preparedness, what helps recovery, what raises awareness and what information is needed, and when, to help communities better prepare for and recover from the next disaster.”

Alex knows well, from his work on the Hills Community Recovery Committee how much this kind of research matters.

“It’s really a huge area for research. It’s super important and I think it’s going to become more and more important.

“If people are interested they should con-

sider going along to the forum,” Alex says.

“This is worthwhile research and it’s a good opportunity for community input.”

The ‘Storm Talk’ Community forum is being held at the Olinda Community House on Saturday 11 November from 1.30-4pm. The event includes afternoon tea. Any Dandenongs locals who experienced the storms or the recovery are welcome.

If you can’t attend the forum, you can participate in the research by filling in the anonymous community survey here: researchsurveys. deakin.edu.au/jfe/form/SV_eV5q2T4DBXtIKEu

Did you experience the Dandenong Ranges storms of 2021?

Share your thoughts in a community forum.

Do you have perspectives on how disaster communication happened, before, during When | Saturday 11 November, 1.30pm- 4pm Where | Local venue, specified on invitation and after the storms?

We want to hear your story.

Express your interest in joining the forum at: https://forms.office.com/r/G3BFfsZGD6 or email: gabi.mocatta@deakin.edu.au You can also complete an anonymous survey here:

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Mayor Child steps down

By Callum Ludwig Yarra Ranges Council Mayor and O’Shannassy Ward Councillor Jim Child announced at the end of the jam-packed Tuesday 24 October Council meeting that it would be his last as mayor.

He was elected as a councillor for the first time in Yarra Ranges Council in 2012 and first served as mayor from 2012 to 2013 and most recently from 2021 to 2023.

Recalling achievements, Cr Child said it’s been a big two years.

“We came into that first year with storm recovery from that significant event back in 2021, dealing with the issues from that especially when you think about that particular property owner up in Kalorama,” he said.

“We’ve just recently gone to the minister for a planning scheme amendment, which will eventually change the planning scheme so that she may be able to build again, so that was a terrific outcome for me.

“I’m also a strong advocate for the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination, we’re well on the road to that now with the planning scheme amendment in front of the minister, and we expect to sign off on that shortly and begin construction in April next year.”

Cr Child’s work in local government in the region extends beyond his 2012 election, having previously been elected to the now-defunct Shire of Upper Yarra in 1982 and becoming shire president in 1985.

Cr Child said he thinks the biggest challenge over those two years was earlier this year when there were problems in the gallery at council meetings.

“We ended up in the Supreme Court with a matter being raised before Justice Richards questioning Council’s actions in regards to the Monbulk Urban Design Framework and whether we did the appropriate consultation, and my and the CEO’s actions to close meetings down,” he said.

“To be vindicated by the Supreme Court that we were correct in what we did was a great feeling for me because it was a period of time for concern.

“I think that what was happening in our gallery was really challenging democracy, where we have an elected council which was being challenged by a minority group who disrupted proceedings.”

The current Deputy Mayor is Melba Ward Councillor Sophie Todorov.

Cr Child said he did realise going into the

Cr Jim Child announced it would be his last meeting as Mayor of Yarra Ranges Council at the Tuesday 24 October Council meeting. 334058 Picture: ON FILE role it would be a challenging time, particularly with state and federal elections taking place.

“Little did I know how the rest would pan out, as well as a referendum where we as Council had to take a neutral place, even though we did recognise the Uluru Statement from the Heart, but it wasn’t for us to direct people how to vote.

“Our job was to really say to people, make sure that you do your homework, check both sides of this, yes or no, and make an informed decision, don’t go to the referendum poll uninformed, so that was an important piece for me.

“There were some things I did expect to be challenging, to be on ABC’s Meet the Mayor four times and all the other media commitments as well, I’ve probably never known the mayor’s role to be so busy in that space, but I think what’s come out of that is that the time went so quick and I’ve got no regrets about my

team in the chair.”

There’s one mayoral term to be served by whoever is to be Cr Child’s replacement before the next Yarra Ranges Council election in 2024.

Cr Child said he thinks they’re well equipped as a council.

“We’ve got nine councillors that are very well connected as a councillor group, with no political factions and that’s what I found inspiring through the difficult times I had to go through,” he said.

“The support I had from those eight other councillors and the offices of our municipality was nothing short of outstanding.

“I will not stop my advocacy on behalf of my constituents, on behalf of the people of the O’Shannassy ward and the Upper Yarra, it’s always been the reason why I’ve stood for local government and I’ll continue to do that.”

Cr Child was formally thanked for this work over the last two years by Yarra Ranges Council CEO Tammi Rose, Streeton Ward Councillor Andrew Fullagar and Walling Ward Councillor Len Cox OAM after his announcement.

Cr Child said he thinks the main learning from anyone who sits in a chair of responsibility is that each and every person who sits around that table in the chamber has an equal right to have a say.

“I think in the two-year period of my mayorship I dealt with probably one amendment, maybe one or two amendments to a council motion and not all resolutions were unanimous either,” he said.

“I think that what that shows and what our council does well is that we can have a very strong debate in regards to items, we can have that respectfully and we can do it through a democratic process.”

Yarra Ranges draft Housing Strategy Now Open for Comment In early 2022, Council released a Housing Strategy Discussion Paper asking for feedback on the important housing issues in Yarra Ranges. This feedback has been used to inform Council’s Draft Housing Strategy, which is now open for community consultation until 11 December 2023.

The Draft Housing Strategy will guide Council’s planning for housing over the next 15 years to ensure that our policies and planning regulations provide for the diverse housing needs of our community now and into the future, particularly in relation to affordability, housing diversity, environmental sustainability, infrastructure and neighbourhood character.

Council officers will hold a webinar information session online, on Thursday 9 November 2023 6.30-7.30pm, which is open for anyone to attend by using this link yarraranges-vic.zoom.us/j/85102099739.

www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au

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The draft Housing Strategy and further information, including on how to get involved and provide feedback is available from Council’s website at shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/housing-strategy-2023.

Order now on aussietoysonline.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Grants to build, expand, improve Men’s Sheds open Applications for grants are now open to help establish, expand, or improve men’s sheds, as part of a $1 million investment by the Labor Government.

Opening the new grant round, Carers and Volunteers Minister Ros Spence said grants of up to $100,000 each would support communities across the state.

“Men’s sheds provide a place to learn new skills, share interests, make friends and contribute to local communities,” she said.

“This investment will support upgrades throughout the state and create more opportunities for Victorians to get involved with their local men’s shed.”

Men’s sheds provide a place for men to come together and build friendships and support networks. They improve the health and wellbeing of their members by reducing social isolation and promoting social inclusion. Shedders get to share their skills, learn new ones, and make new friends in their local area.

They also help to support local communities including schools, emergency services like the CFA, and through donations of handmade goods to local charities.

“Men’s sheds make a powerful contribu- Men’s Sheds are able to apply for grants from the State government. Pictured is Mooroolbark Men’s Shed member Peter Gray. 283771 tion to the health and wellbeing of Victorians, Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS bringing individuals together and strengthening communities,” Victorian Men’s Shed struction of eight new sheds and the reno- the grants program also helps successful ap- great value to their local community and the Association chief executive officer Derek vation of 21 others across regional Victoria plicants upgrade premises, and refurbish people who attend them.

O’Leary said. and metropolitan Melbourne, covering the facilities, to make them more accessible and Applications close at 5pm on Friday 8 De“These grants will help men’s sheds grow communities of Colac-Otway, Swan Hill, Baw inclusive for people with disability. cember. For information about the 2023-24 and welcome new members.”

Baw, the Mornington Peninsula and Echuca.

There are currently more than 360 Men’s Men’s Shed Funding Program, visit providers.

The last round of grants funded the conIn addition to helping build new sheds, Sheds across Victoria, each contributing dffh.vic.gov.au/mens-shed-program

Some FOGO conclusions

By Tanya Faulkner Controversy and concern rings out in the Yarra Ranges as locals come to terms with the new FOGO services being introduced to the municipality.

Several questions were raised by the public during question time at the Yarra Ranges Council (YRC) general meeting held on Tuesday 24 October.

Locals in attendance of the meeting questioned why councillors of YRC chose to ignore the majority of residents in a recent survey who wanted weekly rubbish collection to remain, and how the FOGO service responds to the diverse needs of the community.

Wandin North local Ms Wright asked council why they chose to ignore the majority of community feedback, after council’s own strategy revealed 60 per cent of the 7,000 residents who completed a recent survey wanted weekly rubbish collection, while 65 per cent of webinar attendees (less than 200) would consider fortnightly collection.

YRC acting director planning and sustainable futures Amanda Kern said the decision to transition to fortnightly collection was based on a range of considerations, including community sentiment.

“Council’s Community Resource Recovery and Waste Plan is based on waste industry research, best practice for FOGO collections, and other sector insights and community feedback.

“The collection frequency adopted in our plan is designed to maximise the recovery of organic material from landfill and ensure that we can meet Recycling Victoria targets by 2030, and that service provides the best value for the community,” she said.

Ms Wright’s question was followed by one from Malvern East local Mr Hurlston, who asked how the mandatory opt in FOGO service responds to the diverse needs of the community, given it has no consideration of those who compost or do not require the service.

Ms Kern said council understands the diversity of the community, with FOGO intended to complement those currently composting.

“You can place certain items into your FOGO bin that some home composting systems can’t accept, such as cooked foods, meat, bones, dairy and citrus.

“The FOGO service maximises the recovery of organic material from landfill and ensures mailcommunity.com.au

The Yarra Ranges Council was questioned about its FOGO practices by locals at a recent council meeting.

Picture: ON FILE the council can meet Recycling Victoria policy targets,” she said.

The Yarra Ranges Council is among several who have introduced FOGO services as part of waste management in Victoria, however they look different across the state.

A Knox City Council representative said “waste management services differ from council to council as each council determines the nature of its waste management services to meet the needs and priorities of its community”.

They said there has been a 45 per cent reduction of waste going to landfill.

“In the first three months of the new weekly food and garden bin service, Knox residents have diverted 72 per cent of all green and recycling waste from landfill, up from 50 per cent in 2022.

“A total of 6828 tonnes of food scraps and other organics have been recycled into com-

post. This is the equivalent of 487 truckloads.

“About 6000 tonnes of greenhouse emissions have been saved, which is equivalent to pulling 4000 cars off our roads each year.

“Pleasingly, there has been no increase in contamination in recycling or food and garden waste bins and no increase in dumped rubbish or litter in public rubbish bins.

“While there have been some big changes to our bin services, our community has embraced these changes and residents should feel proud of the results we have collectively achieved,” they said.

The Knox municipality has the same services offered as the Yarra Ranges, offering fortnightly collections alongside the FOGO service.

However, Maroondah Council is providing a point of difference in the Hills, retaining their collection frequency for organics and general waste bins, with decisions made following

community consultation and informed by evidence and research.

Maroondah Mayor, Cr Rob Steane said in 2019, the council engaged with the community on a range of waste services including introducing a FOGO service and general waste being diverted to an energy from waste facility.

“The feedback from residents was that they did not support a change in their general waste collection frequency, but they supported a FOGO service.

“We also undertook research, which assessed how full Maroondah household general waste bins are, how often they’re being placed out for collection, and what is being placed in them.

“This research found that food represented about 10 per cent of the volume of the general waste bin, 82 per cent of households presented their bins weekly, and 90 per cent of bins were more than half full.

“Based on this, removing the food from general waste bins would only remove 10 per cent of volume, or 20 per cent of volume over a fortnightly period,” he said.

Cr Steane said his council was concerned about introducing a fortnightly frequency change for general waste at the same time as FOGO, for fear of an overflow from the general waste that could potentially increase contamination of the FOGO service.

“This is the greatest risk to the service’s long-term feasibility.

“Based on research and feedback from the community, a decision was made to retain the current bin collection frequencies and encourage the separation of food as the first step to reducing general waste to landfill.

“Council will continue to monitor the FOGO service and measure general waste bin usage.

“If the evidence supports a shift in frequencies, we would again engage with the community before determining a way forward,” he said.

YRC’s Ms Kern said council will review the system following its six-month implementation to ensure it best meets community needs and delivers on the broader environmental targets.

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Raise your hat to Babaji’s

By Tanya Faulkner After what once started as a food truck in Belgrave, a local restaurant has received top accolades for its home-inspired cuisine.

Babaji’s Kerala Kitchen has recently been hatted, after food critics from The Age paid a surprise visit to the local restaurant in the Hills.

Co-owners, Billy Crombie and Max Kamil Hassan, were both shocked when they found out about the accolade.

Ms Crombie said their journey began around 15 years ago, and she never looked back.

“Max and I met about 15 years ago, when I was travelling in South India.

“He had a restaurant in Kerala, overlooking the Arabian Ocean, which was quite beautiful.

“I just fell in love with him,” she said.

It took a few years for Ms Crombie to convince Mr Hassan to move to Australia.

“He lived in paradise over there,” she said.

The pair moved to Australia together in the early 2010s, moving back to her home in the Hills in Monbulk, with Mr Hassan making the move back into work in hospitality.

Ms Crombie said things were tough in the beginning for her partner.

“He started working in hospitality right at the bottom.

“It was hard because he was underpaid, felt like he wasn’t being respected, and started to become really miserable.

“To go from owning a restaurant to working at the bottom, is quite a tough move.

“I said to him, ‘if you’re going to survive in this country, we have to start a business,” she said.

Though the pair had no money in the bank, they decided to start cooking Dosa - an Indian lentil pancake - and would sell it at the local markets.

Ms Crombie said they had no idea what they were doing.

Max Kamil Hassan and Billy Crombie have been hatted for Babaji’s Kerala Kitchen in Belgrave. 370889 “Max called his mum back in India to find out how to make Dosa, and we took it to the Upper Ferntree Gully market and the Belgrave Big Dreams Market.

“The CFA had an extreme fire risk day that day, and we didn’t understand what that meant or what we needed to have with us,” she said.

From there, the pair endeavoured to take on bigger events, starting to sell their Dosa at the Queen Victoria Night Market for quite some time, and music festivals around the state, including the Golden Plains Music Festival.

Eventually, the pair managed to settle in a takeaway store in Belgrave’s main centre on Burwood HIghway, opening Babaji’s Kitchen to the HIlls.

For them, it was the chance to bring new cuisine and culture to locals in the Hills.

Ms Crombie said a lot of locals don’t know about South Indian cuisine, but they stuck to their guns and wanted to bring their authentic food to the Hills.

“Most Australians think of Indian food as just being butter chicken or chicken tikka, but that’s not what South Indian food is all about,” she said.

The pair’s journey took a turn just before covid, which Ms Crombie said was the push they needed to take the next step.

“Just before Covid we got the opportunity to take over the laundromat which was next to our takeaway store.

“My brother, who owns Sooki’s, said he wanted some extra storage space and that he would go halves with us.

“I was too scared to do it, but I agreed.

“After I signed the lease, he said he didn’t want it, which was intended all along to make us take the step and open up the restaurant,” she said.

Shortly after opening, the Covid19 pandemic hit Victoria, causing more challenges for the new restaurant.

Ms Crombie said most of their staff at the time were non-residents, so they didn’t have the same support as other businesses may have in the area.

“That was the fire in my belly to do something.

“We look after our staff and we’re very much a family.

“We had all of these international students who couldn’t go home and couldn’t survive in the country,” she said.

The pair started delivering their food across the Yarra Ranges, all the way up to Kings Cliff, which Ms Crombie said opened new doors to a new community, and the introduction of Babaji’s Kerala Kitchen as it stands today.

Their experience through Covid19 made Ms Crombie realise they needed to focus more on the food of Max’s childhood, and bring his true regional cuisine to Belgrave and Victoria.

“There is lots of regional cuisine in India that Australians don’t know about, we just don’t get it here.

“We wanted to promote the food of Kerala, which got us noticed by the Melbourne - Kerala community, who regularly come to visit

us,” she said.

The years of hard work has paid off for the pair, who have now opened their second premise in Warburton, and deliver authentic Keralian food to the Hills.

Ms Crombie said receiving recognition from The Age and being hatted was both shocking and amazing.

“We are one of only two Indian restaurants in Victoria to have received a hat.

“The Age said their reasoning came down to the whole experience they had with us.

“They said it came down to our staffs’ ability to share information and recommend different Kerala dishes to them,” she said.

Ms Crombie and Mr Hassan have a team of 22 staff between their premises, including Keralian chefs and local young adults, all sharing a passion for their craft.

“I am so proud of our staff being able to share about the Kerala food to whoever it was that came in.

“We are proudly diverse, which makes us quite unique.

“Max isn’t a trained chef, he just cooks the food he knows from home.

“Sometimes he still has to call his mum to ask her how to make something,” she said.

Ms Crombie said she hopes other smaller businesses and restaurants in the Hills will also have their opportunity to be recognised at this level, just as they have.

“Most of the restaurants who are recognised or hatted are fine dining restaurants.

“This recognition goes to show that good food doesn’t have to be ‘fine’ food - good food can come from small businesses as well.

“It’s about the recognition of little food stalls and the hard work they do,” she said.

Ms Crombie said they are both very grateful for the recognition, their staff, and ultimately the support that their community has given them over the years.

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NEWS

Community pharmacist pilot programs hit the Hills A 12-month pilot in Victoria allows people to receive some treatments at a local pharmacy without needing to see a doctor to get a prescription first.

It particularly benefits women and people living in areas where it is hard to get a general practitioner (GP) appointment.

The pilot is running from October 2023 to October 2024.

During this time you can attend a pharmacy for treatment of some common health conditions: Women can get more supply of a contraceptive pill they are already using without needing a prescription.

Women with uncomplicated urinary tract infections can access antibiotics for treatment. Pharmacists can provide some vaccinations for travel and more public health vaccines including hepatitis A, hepatitis B,

poliomyelitis and typhoid. As part of the pilot, pharmacists are doing further training in each service they offer.

For example, training about the supply of antibiotics for urinary tract infections or identifying and providing the vaccinations you need for travel.

The pharmacists will follow clinical protocols to guide their decision-making.

These protocols have been developed by the Victorian Department of Health in consultation with medical and pharmacy experts and are based on international best practice.

Not everybody is able to receive their health care in a pharmacy. Participating pharmacists will ask you questions before and during your consultation to help them decide if they can treat you. Your age, your sex and the details of your condition and medical history may help the pharmacist determine whether they can treat you or whether you need a referral.

A referral is usually a letter to another healthcare provider to ask them to see you.

The pharmacist will refer you to your doctor or another healthcare provider if they think that is the best option for you.

People with or without a Medicare card and international students are eligible to seek a service under the pilot. Your consultation with the pharmacist will take place in a private consultation room. They will explain the pilot and ask for your consent to be part of the pilot and to have your information collected.

They will then ask you about the health service you need and make a decision about your treatment. They will answer any questions you have and will make sure you have the information you need.

After a week, you may be sent a health check message by SMS or email.

It will check whether your symptoms have

gone away and you feel better, and to make sure there are no side effects from the medication or the vaccination.

If your condition stays the same or gets worse, or you are worried about the medications, side effects or you have other concerns, you can see your usual doctor to discuss.

While the pharmacist will be able to help you with specific conditions during the pilot, your doctor is still the best person to see about your overall health and any serious health conditions.

Hills locals have access to several community pharmacist pilot locations including the Emerald Village Pharmacy, Chemist Discount Centre, Upper Ferntree Gully, Olinda Pharmacy, Pharmasave Boronia Discount Pharmacy, Boronia Discount Drug Store, Direct Chemist Outlet, Bayswater, Chemist Warehouse, Westfield Knox, Pharmacy @knox and Amcal Pharmacy Wantirna South.

Mum shares the agony

By Tyler Wright ‘The worst skin condition you’ve never heard of’.

This is how the Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Research Association (DEBRA) describes the rare disease Epidermolysis Bullosa - a condition that causes skin to blister and peel at the slightest touch.

According to the organisation, it is estimated that there are around 1,000 people in Australia who have some form of EB, with the number at over 500,000 worldwide.

During EB Awareness Week, held from Wednesday 25 October to Tuesday 31 October 2023, DEBRA shared the story of seven-yearold Charlotte Sumpter of Emerald.

When Charlotte was born after a normal pregnancy she had no skin on her ankles, on the top of both feet or her left big toe.

“We were having a cesarean because I had a lot of back surgery, so I didn’t want to push out the baby” Charlotte’s mum, Jess Phillips said.

“When they pulled her out, they said straight away ‘we’re concerned about her feet.’”

“I was left behind at the St John of God Hospital in Berwick and she was taken to the children’s with my husband Shane.”

Jess said when she was transferred into the Royal Children’s Hospital, she was told by the head specialist and a social worker that she should be prepared not to bring her daughter home.

“They didn’t know if she was going to die or make it because the really severe [cases] blister on the inside as well,” she said.

“I couldn’t breastfeed her anything because they said the friction of her mouth on my nipple will cause blisters and then she could blister right down inside her esophagus.”

Despite being diagnosed with the recessive form of EB Jess said Charlotte presented with mild symptoms of the disease. “[Up to] two and a half she was peeling on her feet and once it was grown it was very fragile, so we would put bandages on it,” Jess said.

“They bath them in salt and bleach as well, to stop infection... we had bandages we’d cut the shape of a booty out [to put] underneath socks, so if the shoes rub we try to stop the blisters from forming.

“For us it’s mainly preventative so she wears leggings all year round to stop getting blisters or skin coming off.”

Jess said Charlotte is about to start playing basketball, is an avid Irish dancer, and will not let her condition deter her from the joy of the monkey bars at her school playground.

“She’s very outgoing; from birth she’s always loved singing and dancing, art, drawing,” Jess said.

“She saw that Riverdance cartoon when she was four and asked and asked and asked to do Riverdance lessons (Irish dancing), so she’s very good at it.

“She’s seven and she danced with the 10 and 11 year olds and she does it three times a week.”

Charlotte is even able to wear Irish Dance mailcommunity.com.au

At seven years old, Mum Jess said Charlotte is outgoing and loves Irish dancing.

Jess Phillips (left) has shared her daughter Charlotte’s (right) story this EB Awareness Week.

Pictures: SUPPLIED shoes, despite fears she would not be able to, and wears crocs at school.

“Underworks did a run of socks for the EB kids that are made of bamboo, so they’re the only socks she’ll wear now,” Jess said “I didn’t say anything to her; as soon as I put them on, she said ‘Mum, they like soft clouds.’

“She loves the monkey bars at school; she’s blistered all underneath her knees, but she doesn’t care; we put bandages on it for protec-

tion, but she doesn’t care because she wants to do it with her friends.”

It was a genetic mutation in both of Charlotte’s parents’ collagen genes that caused the EB, Jess said, with the odds one in a million that she would be born with the disease.

“We stopped [having kids] because we were told there was a 25 per cent chance any more kids would have EB, and 50 per cent chance it would be mild like Charlotte, but it could be

severe like the other kids,” Jess said.

Last year, Jess spoke at Charlotte’s school assembly during EB Awareness Week, with the school community raising $500 for DEBRA Australia through gold coin donations.

On Sunday 29 October. families and EB supporters came together in Melbourne, and across the country to raise awareness for people who have lost loved ones and those still battling with EB during the Walk for Wings to raise funds for DEBRA’s program.

Over $25,000 has been raised so far.

Jess said the charity has done “so much” for her family.

“They bought a bath for $3,500 that we could bath her in from birth to four years old, they gave her shoes and they helped pay for air conditioning because they get really hot and they don’t sweat like us,” Jess said.

“Charlotte’s been brought up with it, she knows no different.

“They describe it as the worst disease you’ve never heard of - they call them butterfly children.”

Jess said Charlotte wants to be either an Irish Dance teacher or a vet when she gets older.

“She absolutely loves animals and Irish dancing,” she said.

Jess’s message is for people to be aware that EB is another rare condition that is out there.

“The skin grew back, but [Charlotte] has no toenail on her big left toe, and her other toenails are very, very fine and thin,” she said.

“For us it’s only her feet that seem to blister.

[For] other kids, even holding a pencil they get blisters on their hands.”

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Veterans hook a success

By Mikayla Van Loon In as little as 12 months Mount Evelyn RSL’s Veterans for Fishing initiative has gone from strength to strength, building bonds and improving mental health.

Established as a way to engage with veterans of all ages, particularly those struggling with post-service mental health conditions, Veterans for Fishing has started reaching beyond its borders of the Yarra Ranges.

For president of the group, Chris McAleer, and Mount Evelyn RSL president Matt Crymble, the response of the community has been astounding.

“It is working and I’ve been amazed with how quickly it’s taken off and how people have really gotten behind us,” Mr McAleer said.

But what’s on the horizon for the group is expected to be even bigger next year, with plans in place to expand the program and its offerings.

“When we first started it, I was unsure if anybody was already doing it. There’s only one other group I found and that was a group called Reeling Veterans who are up in Darwin and they’ve got another chapter in Townsville,” Mr McAleer said.

“They’ve been doing it for five years and they do it on a really grand scale. Once a year they have a trip for five days where they go from Darwin and to the Tiwi Islands. They’ll have a mothership and then they have up to five or six smaller boats skippered by veterans.”

Having been lucky enough to join the group of 10 veterans and crew on the most recent trip, Mr McAleer said it is now something he would like to implement here in Victoria.

“The plans we’re going to put in place for Veterans for Fishing next year are going to be ginormous,” he said.

“We’re going to try and emulate what they’re doing. We haven’t gone through all the details yet but in theory, it’s going to be a houseboat, four days and will emulate exactly how they do it, where we have veterans apply.”

Witnessing the power of veterans being with other veterans while undertaking the calming activity of fishing in Darwin, Mr McAleer said despite not being a counselling body, Veterans for Fishing has the ability to allow former service people to open up.

“What we do find is that veterans being around other veterans, they open up and they relax a little bit more, even if they don’t know that veteran, once they just relax, they realise we’re all the same.

“There were veterans of all walks of life.

There were older veterans, younger veterans.

There were veterans that have never been deployed. There are some that have done multiple deployments, and from all branches too Army, Navy and Air Force.”

Seeing the success of the first 12 months, with hundreds of veterans reaching out for group fishing days, individual fishing and the family days, Mr Crymble said it’s something he and the RSL are incredibly proud of, especially to see the impact it is having.

“It sounds a bit silly but Chris is busy every weekend fishing. That sounds like a whole lot

Veterans for Fishing president Chris McAleer and Mount Evelyn RSL president Matt Crymble can’t believe the impact the program has had in 12 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS months. 370916 of fun, but it’s all a lot of work and our club’s most appreciative of how much work Chris is putting into the job,” he said.

Mr McAleer said the act of fishing is much more than just attempting to catch some fish and is much more about the meditative effects, connection and repair.

“We tend to go to the Goulburn River, it’s picturesque, the fishing is always pretty good but it’s mainly the scenery.

“We can have a fish, we can form a spot on our own and then every now and then I’ll just say ‘hey, remember to look up and have a look where we are’. It’s just beautiful. Yeah.

“Sometimes they just sit and put their feet in the water. It’s just the calming effects of the water flowing by. It’s probably a bit of a cliche, but it tends to wash away a lot of things and they change.”

Not only does it help the individual veteran but Mr McAleer said for those ex-service men and women who have families, family fishing days can help create a “little bit of healing as well”.

“Partners deal with everything at home.

They’re holding the children together, they’re holding everything and if there are issues with a veteran, that tension at home is right through and fishing can help all of them.”

With the major age group attending events being between 35 to 55, Mr McAleer and Mr Crymble said it’s still challenging to engage the younger demographic of veterans “It’s still hard to get the younger blokes involved, they do feel a bit out of it but when they when they come along they tend to relax “It’s the same with the older generation too…I really enjoy seeing the older veterans come because that’s the barrier that really needs to be broken between the younger vets and the older vets.

“The stories are exactly the same, they’re just 30 years apart. But you can definitely laugh about the same stuff. Nothing has really changed in the army in all those years. It’s the same stories being rehashed, just the uniform has changed.”

Veterans for Fishing has linked with an exservice organisation called Young Veterans, who have sponsored some of the group’s activities

“Traditional ex service organisations, number one being the RSL, they’re finding it difficult to get the younger members and this is a means to target those younger vets and let them know that we’re here. We’re here to support them and hopefully encourage membership,” Mr Crymble said.

“The RSL would be happy to work with some of these newer organisations. Young Veterans haven’t been around too long, but we’re all on the same team and it’s about supporting veterans.”

Gaining momentum and sponsorship has really increased the capability of Veterans for Fishing, with gear being provided by Shimano, monetary donations from Mt Evelyn Community Bank, Veterans Coffee Company, Ministry of Chocolate and the backing of Lilydale and Monbulk RSLs. Finishing off the year will be the final family day in Riddells Creek at a private lake that has been stocked with over 500 fish for the event on the last weekend of November.

To keep up to date with what’s ahead for the next year, find Veterans For Fishing on Facebook.

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NEWS

Remembrance Day services in the Dandenong Ranges 11.11.11 marks the end of World War One, in which we remember the fallen that gave their lives for our freedom.

Hills locals can participate in Remembrance Day services across the region on Saturday 11 November with a number of participating RSL clubs.

See below for your closest service: Dandenong Ranges RSL Remembrance Day service will be held on the Sassafras Village Green commencing at 10.40am.

Emerald RSL Emerald will be covered in poppies from November 1 as is tradition.

Remembrance Day service will be held at Anzac Place commencing at 10.30am.

Cockatoo RSL The Remembrance Day Service will be held at the Cockatoo RSL commencing at 10.15am, with a minute’s silence at 11am.

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Gembrook RSL A service will be held at Remembrance Park on Gembrook Road at 10.45am.

People are invited to go back to the club rooms after the service for light refreshments.

Boronia RSL Remembrance Day Service will be held at the Knox War Memorial commencing at 10am.

Located at the Tim Neville Arboretum, Dorset Road, Ferntree Gully corner Dorset Road and Francis Crescent Ferntree Gully to commemorate Remembrance Day. Upwey-Belgrave RSL Remembrance Day Service will be held at the RSL, commencing at 10.30am. A minute’s silence will be observed at 11am.

Monbulk RSL Remembrance Day Service will be held at the Monbulk RSL at 48 Main Road, commencing at 10.55am.

We will remember them.

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Poppies will line Emerald for Remembrance Day.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Final historical volume

By Mikayla Van Loon The Lillydale Shire’s final chapter of war history will be forever documented after a grant to fund the project was received by Lilydale RSL. Historian Anthony McAleer, backed by the sub-branch, was a recipient of the Federal government’s Saluting their Service grant program to complete the fifth installment of his war history books.

Having conducted 30 years worth of research starting with the colonial wars, the $10,000 grant will go towards the production of The Shire of Lillydale and its Military Heritage: Vol 5 Korea to Kuwait (1945 - 1995).

The series of books, Mr McAleer said, began in 1994 as a way of “uncovering the military history of the area” and the “role this area would play in Australia’s military history”.

Two years later the Shire of Lillydale became the Shire of Yarra Ranges but Mr McAleer remained within his original boundaries of Lilydale, Wonga Park, Coldstream, Yering, Gruyere, Wandin, Seville, Silvan, Monbulk, Olinda, Kalorama, Mount Dandenong, Montrose, Mooroolbark and Mount Evelyn.

With veterans still living in these suburbs who fought in some of the main conflicts of the time, especially Korea and Vietnam, Mr McAleer said it will be the perfect time to record their stories to ensure they are enshrined in local history.

“It’s probably one of the first areas that’s ever looked in any detail at that period. Usually, there’s a lot of books about World War One and World War Two but not so much about this era,” he said.

“We’re hoping the fact that there’s still a lot of people around who have memories of that we’ll be able to access their memories.”

It will focus on occupation forces in New Guinea, the Pacific and Japan post-World War Two, the Korean War, the Malayan emergency, the Borneo confrontation, national service of the ‘50s and ‘60s, army reservists, the homefront, peacekeeping operations and ending with the Gulf War. “Over the past 30 years, I’ve been slowly researching this and I’ve interviewed quite a lot of people who had experiences in those conflicts but I’ll also be looking at doing more interviews and getting more research together,” Mr McAleer said.

“And certainly going out there and trying to find people who lived in the area during that period, and what their opinions were on the military aspects that affected that era.

“One of the major aspects is the whole thing about communism and whether that was going to be a danger to us and looking at how do we stop communism affecting our lives.”

Despite having access to impeccable military archives for World War One and Two, Mr McAleer said it is somewhat of a different story for the more recent conflicts.

For those who served in Vietnam and Korea especially, only the veterans themselves, or in the case of their death, the next of kin can read their military file. mailcommunity.com.au

Historian Anthony McAleer has partnered with the Lilydale RSL to publish the final book in his war history series. He’s pictured with RSL president Bill Dobson and secretary Chris Newell. The image held is of Sgt A Studeman from Lilydale erecting the First Royal Australian Regiment badge over barracks in Japan, 1950.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON “There’s limited information available. Certainly with World War One and World War Two, what makes it so much easier is where they enlisted from is also detailed on the nominal role.

“For Vietnam and Korea it doesn’t have where they enlisted from, it has where they were born.”

That’s why speaking with veterans and their families about their service is a necessary way of holding onto the Lillydale Shire’s war history.

This final chapter of a 30 year long project, Mr McAleer said, is also possibly one of the most important in providing recognition to the sometimes forgotten veterans of that time.

“Certainly Korea is known as the forgotten

war because it came between two large wars that had a huge impact on Australia and Australian society, being World War Two and Vietnam.

“We all would agree there’s been a huge change in attitude in the last 10 years in regards to how we look at our involvement in the Vietnam War and there’s been more of a concentration on those who served and there’s certainly been a great pride that’s developed in the community about those who served our country in Vietnam.

“Whereas going back 20 years ago, there was still a lot about the anti war movement and did these guys do the right thing. Nowadays, we accept that their services were certainly ex-

traordinary and deserve to be acknowledged.”

Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson said the club was “delighted to be part of the project” and he too is looking forward to learning about the region’s unknown war history.

After many years, Mr McAleer said he expects the fifth and final volume to be released in mid-2024.

“To be able to put it out there as a permanent record for the community to see, to learn from, to be educated from will be good.

“It will certainly be a great gift that we’re giving to the district because it’s one of the very few that have ever had its military heritage ever recorded in such detail and over such a long period.”

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NEWS

A natter and a cuppa go a long way towards best life

By Tanya Faulkner As one gets older, it can become lonely after kids leave home, friends move away, or life just gets in the way.

However, a group of local residents are banding together to give elderly Hills residents more opportunities for social connections, and to make new friends in their own backyard.

The CHAOS Network are bringing locals together in conversation through their social prescribing project - Living Our Best Life.

Research in Australia showed around 1 in 10 or 1.8 million Australians aged 15 and over reported lacking social support, and around 1 in 4 reported that they are currently experiencing an episode of loneliness.

CHAOS community connector Gary Cantwell said the network’s program was inspired by a concept adopted in the United Kingdom.

“There’s a concept known as social prescribing that has been successfully used in communities to improve the health outcomes of people experiencing loneliness.

“It has been so successful over there that we’ve adopted it over here,” he said.

Over the past three years the Neighbourhood Houses in the outer-east has trialled a local version of social prescribing with people aged 60 and over, with great success.

CHAOS currently has 10 groups across the south-east, with a vast majority in the Hills.

The project includes Community Connectors trained to support individuals referred by Health Practitioners to join in com-

Healesville taking cafe participants Gary Cantwell, Kaye Ambrose, Evelyn Burin and Dianne Firth. 370229 munity activities.

They help them learn about their choices for local social activities and provide introductions to community agencies including accompanying the participant for their first visit to ensure that they feel supported and Confident.

The project also includes Talking Cafes, where locals can meet for one hour weekly in a local cafe and make new connections.

Mr Cantwell, along with Healesville attendees Kaye Ambrose, Evelyn Burin and Dianne Firth all said it was a great tool to get reconnected with others in the community, and reduce the loneliness that can be experienced in the later years of life.

Cantwell, who was one of the first volunteers with the program in 2020, said there are several ways for locals to get involved.

“People either get referred from doctors or

allied health professionals, or they can self refer or come with a friend.

“We bring them along to one of our talking cafes close to them, or if they don’t want that, we help them to find other things in the community, like getting involved in sport or connected to a community house,” he said.

For Mr Cantwell, the best part of the experience is when new people come along.

“The best part is meeting new people like this.

“Sometimes when new people come along they’re quite shy, so we like to tell them a story about what the group is, and they tend to open up a bit more,” he said.

The weekly groups have been designed to help locals have regular conversations and connections with others in the community.

Mr Cantwell said other groups have tried fortnightly sessions, however people just don’t tend to show up with the irregularity.

“Having these sessions each week means that people don’t have to think about it.

“They just think “I’ll go to Healesville at 2pm, and have a good time.

“Our sessions are only meant to go for an hour, but sometimes we stay longer for almost two hours,” he said.

Ms Burin said it’s a great tool to encourage older locals to find something to do in the community.

“I find it really good for those living on their own.

“I live in a village, but we still don’t see each other every day, people as they get older stay inside more.

“It’s good for people to get dressed up, buy a cup of coffee, and talk to people,” she said.

Ms Firth said most of the time the talking cafe is more than just a chance to chat.

“I find the people very supportive in the group.

“If you don’t know something you can ask someone in the group and get a personal recommendation “It becomes a bit of an information centre too, unofficially, like more of a support group,” she said.

Other participants said the groups have made such a difference to their lives since attending.

“My volunteers’ enthusiasm has made such a difference. I felt like a dried out sponge; she gave me the water and I’ve soaked it up.

“My health has changed greatly, its chalk and cheese, everybody needs some kind of purpose and I had nothing, and now I have found one or a few!

“Making some good friends out of this, meeting some nice people,” they said.

For Yarra Ranges locals, a new talking cafe has recently started in Yarra Junction, alongside sessions in Seville, Lilydale, Healesville, Boronia, Knox, Heathmont and Vermont South.

For more information email the Project Worker – livingourbestlifeproject@gmail. com or phone 0457 646 384.

Day of sunshine and culture

By Tanya Faulkner Sunshine and culture filled the air in Upper Ferntree Gully, as its local community house welcomed the public to enjoy the opening of their latest project.

Coonara Community House held their Yarning Circle launch on Saturday 28 October, which welcomed approximately 250 people through its grounds to celebrate Indigenous culture.

The Yarning Circle, which received council funding to support the project from the state government’s Suburban Revitalisation Grant, has brought a whole new vibe to the house and the community.

Project Manager Sierra Laird said it was an absolutely beautiful day, and she was pleasantly surprised by the turnout.

“The day went so well, we had no idea what the turnout was going to be because we just had it as a Facebook event.

“The page only had about 100 people interested, and 30 people saying they were going, but we actually ended up with around 250 people coming through.

“It was beautiful, there were people of all ages, little ones and older people, of all cultures, coming together,” she said.

The day kicked off at 11am with a range of indigenous market stall holders, children’s arts and crafts with some local elders, a bush tucker lunch, and performances by dance troop Djarlo and didgeridoo player Ganga Giri.

Ms Laird said all of the events were so special for the community.

“The Smoking Ceremony was extremely special and the Elders were invited to join followed by the community.

“When the dancers were dancing, they encouraged people to come and dance around the fire with them.

“With children’s activities, storytime, saltbush popcorn, games and more it was a day filled with community spirit,” she said.

Ms Laird said a lot of people got behind the event to make it what it was.

“Stevie and Abe from Sustainative were cooking up a storm in our Community Kitchen serving Yellow Lentil Curry and Lemon Myrtle Poho and it was delicious.

“Our 10 Indigenous Market stall holders set up to showcase their inspiring Art and craft and it was busy,” she said.

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Locals enjoyed a variety of performances throughout the day. 364517

Dancing performance after the unveiling. 364517 The project has been months of work to bring to life, including a collaboration with Bunnings Scoresby and Yellowstone Landscaping to redesign their bush tucker garden out the front of the house, commissioning a mural with artist Natalie Jade, and weeks of behind the scenes work by the Coonara Community House team.

Cr Meagan Baker - Dobson Ward for Knox City Council and Ms Laird unveiled the Natalie Jade Mural with a red velvet drop and the crowd were wowed!

Ms Laird said Natalie was inspired by the Upper Ferntree Gully area in her piece.

“Natalie used to grow up in the area, but now lives out Bass Coast way.

“She wanted to be part of the event and her

Merlynn Duff at her stall. 364517 artwork is full of gum leaves and things that reminded her of her time in Upper Ferntree Gully.

“It is stunning and represents our area so well,” she said.

Ms Laird said overall the event received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the community.

“I did a post on our Facebook asking for general feedback from the event, and it was beautiful.

“People said it was a great way to connect with the community, and enjoy a relaxed, fascinating day,” she said.

Coonara Community House manager Sandra Romero told Star Mail in previous months that the idea behind the yarning circle was to

create a place for indigenous peoples of the Hills to come together and chat (or ’yarn’) and be able to connect with each other, and the wider community for opportunities.

“We are very welcoming, respectful and understanding of indigenous needs, and we provide a safe place for them to come together and chat, connect and develop with various programs held here,” she said.

Coonara Community House helps to connect indigenous peoples of the Knox community with growth and development opportunities, as well as connecting them with employers for jobs, and giving them a space to feel safe.

For more information, or to connect with the house, visit facebook.com/CoonaraCommunityHouse mailcommunity.com.au

FOR THE LOVE OF THE BOOKS

A booklovers’ hidden gem In a world dominated by digital screens and fleeting attention spans, there’s a cosy corner in Emerald, where the printed word still reigns supreme. Grace and Louie Booksellers, a charming new bookstore, has been welcoming bibliophiles since the last week of September this year. Owner Lyn Watson’s vision for this establishment is as clear as it is heartwarming: to impart a love of books, particularly to children, and to create a haven for the community that shares this cherished love.

What sets Grace and Louie Booksellers apart is not just the books they offer, which range from new fiction to nonfiction, catering to readers of all ages, it’s the personal, genuine customer service they provide. Here, the stock is carefully curated based on quality content and design rather than being dictated by academic market research or demographic profiling. It’s a place where you’re likely to discover not only the latest bestseller but some hidden gems as well.

As the holiday season approaches, the bookstore is buzzing with activity. Weekly pre-Christmas stock deliveries are underway, ensuring there’s a wide array of choices for gift shoppers. Grace and Louie Booksellers is also gearing up to launch the “Grace and Louie Booksellers Christmas Challenge.” This exciting initiative invites customers to shop locally, avoid the hustle and bustle of shopping centres, and puts out the challenge to find at least one perfect gift for everyone in-store.

The true measure of Grace and Louie Booksellers’ success is the sheer joy it has brought to the community. It’s not every day that a new business witnesses such a heartwarming reception. Many customers have expressed their gratitude for the store’s presence, and the excitement in children’s voices when they discover the dedicated children’s section is

Discover all the best reads and more at Grace and Louie Booksellers. 369226

Lyn Watson has created a haven for book lovers in Emerald. 369226 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS nothing short of magical. Moreover, Grace and Louie Booksellers caters to people of all ages, ensuring everyone can find a book that suits their needs.

What’s even more exciting is the roadmap ahead for this bookstore. In 2024, they plan to launch a book club, children’s reading sessions and a loyalty club. And if you ever need the convenience of an online purchase, Grace

and Louie Booksellers will soon have their website up and running. Keep an eye on their Facebook and Instagram pages for news and announcements.

For those seeking a particular title that may not be in stock, fret not. Grace and Louie Booksellers can order books “in print” from major Australian publishers upon request. It’s all part of their commitment to serving the

unique literary needs of their customers.

To pay a visit to this book lover’s paradise, you can find Grace and Louie Booksellers at Shop 8, 5-7 Kilvington Drive, Emerald (Corner Heroes Avenue). You can also reach out to them at admin@graceandlouiebooksellers.au or give them a call on 5929 8315. Their doors are open from Tuesday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm, on Saturdays from 9am to 4pm, and on Sundays from 10am to 3pm with longer hours for everyone’s convenience as Christmas approaches.

Grace and Louie Booksellers is not just a bookstore; it’s a warm, inviting space where the love of books and reading is celebrated, and where the community comes together.

Whether you’re in search of a literary gem, a unique gift, or a warm smile from a dedicated bookseller, this is the place to be. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic that Lyn Watson and her team have created in Emerald.

LIVE SHOP Fiction & Non Fiction For All Ages 8/5-7 Kilvington Drive, Emerald, Victoria (03) 5929 8315 admin@graceandlouiebooksellers.au

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Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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School marks its 140th

By Tanya Faulkner Tales of years gone by were recently shared at a school in a small town in the Foothills.

Gembrook Primary School turned 140 this year, inviting past and present students to gather at the school and reminisce over the past.

On 20 October the school celebrated with a special assembly, a day of learning and games from past eras and an evening barbecue, jumping castle, games and an open-air cinema.

A representative of the school said the grounds, whilst not at the schools’ original location from the 1880s, still holds significant historical structures that date back to the early 1900s, including several connections to past Gembrook residents.

In 2019 a number of the school’s buildings were renamed in remembrance of those who had come before, including the Barak Centre is named in honour of Ngurungaeta of the Wurundjeri people, and famous Australian Artist William Barak (1824-1903), and The Wilson Centre is named in honour of Miss Anne Wilson, a teacher who lobbied the department of education to purchase land and build a school in Gembrook in 1914.

Assembly was attended by three past students, Harold Ramage, Elaine Pantorno and Evelyn Atkinson.

Being generations apart from her grandson, Alex, and the current students of Gembrook Primary School, Ms Patorno told wild tales about her time at school in the early 1900s and how things used to be, way back when.

School Captains Aiden and Lia interviewed the visitors about their memories of school life when they attended, learning quickly just

Gembrook Primary School students celebrate 140 years.

Alex Pantorno and his Grandmother Elaine Pantorno. how different the times are now for students in school.

Other past students Roger Armstrong and Lyn Begg provided written recollections that were read aloud by student leaders Max, Shaminka and Isla.

Church reunion for 70th

By Mikayla Van Loon Mount Evelyn Christian Reformed Church celebrated its 70th birthday and decades of active service in the community last month.

Pastor Lukas Edwards said it was a wonderful get together of founding members, current members and those who have moved away on Sunday 22 October.

“It was good to have so many people that have moved over that time come back and celebrate, particularly with some of our still founding members the journey the church has been on over that time,” he said.

Established in 1953 by Dutch migrants, the church evolved from in-home to the still standing Birmingham Road brick building.

“There was a small collection of Dutch families who after the war moved over and established the church, initially as a home church, just meeting in someone’s house and then they had a few more arrivals,” Pastor Lukas said.

“Eventually, they started meeting in community buildings but decided they needed to establish a church for themselves and then very quickly moved from Dutch services to English services because they wanted to come and be a part of Australia and not be separate.

“They appreciated what they’d received in being able to move here and wanted to contribute back to the community that had accepted them so they started up a little church where it is now.”

Giving back to the community has been so ingrained in the church since its inception, it led to the building of two major facilities in the Mount Evelyn township.

“Once they had established themselves a little bit, they had a mind to start Mount Evelyn Christian School or MECS as it’s now known, and that was something they were very passionate about making sure that our community had education.

“They also started the Oasis camp site, just as you head out towards Monbulk.”

Since then, the church has been supporting the broader community by providing regular meals and groceries.

“Now every Thursday night we run a free meal for the community, whoever wants to come to that can and at the moment, we have about 70 people each Thursday coming to 16 MAIL

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Casey MP Aaron Violi with Pastor Lukas Edwards at the 70th birthday celebrations on Sunday 22 October.

Picture: SUPPLIED that,” Pastor Lukas said.

The meals started in 2010 with just three people attending but has grown exponentially, something Pastor Lukas put down to as people needing connection.

“There’s a lot of people who come with apprehensions, but what we find is there’s a great lack of community in current times and people are looking for a place where they can feel known and noticed and cared for and cared about.

“Sometimes people don’t have much family in their life or sometimes maybe they’ve lost their spouse and eating alone all the time is not maybe something they necessarily want to do.

“So it’s been a really good thing to be able to just provide a Thursday meal every week, so that people can come and experience some of that community that is sometimes hard to find.”

Heading into Christmas, Pastor Lukas said it will be a time of celebration yet again with Advent services leading up to Christmas day, which will be a “come one, come all”.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

The school day was unusual with students dressed in costumes from previous eras, an extended play time with games from days gone by including marbles, quoits, elastics, hopscotch, card towers, paper planes, hoola hoops, an egg and spoon race, and more.

Class time included several learning styles of the past such as dictation, calligraphy, and reciting, while other activities focused on the number 140 such as creating sums equalling 140, using 140 sticks to make a tower and a 140 collage.

Gembrook students also added a handprint to a 140-year anniversary artwork which will hang in the school upon completion for the school community to enjoy.

This will sit alongside several other momentums scattered throughout the school from birthdays that have been and gone, including a time capsule planted at the front end of the school, a magnolia tree planted at the 100th birthday, and many other artworks in the school grounds.

The School Council and PFA rounded out the day by hosting a lovely evening event which included the ever-popular sausage sizzle, popcorn and icy poles, a jumping castle and games run by the OSHClub team, followed by an open air showing of the Disney movie Elemental on the oval.

Over 200 people were in attendance to celebrate this milestone birthday for the school.

Students take the stage for Rotary Youth initiative The Primary School Speech Contest is a Rotary Youth initiative for Grade 5 and 6 students.

The program is aimed at helping the development of public speaking skills in the upper primary school years.

Emerald Rotary staged this event on Tuesday 24 October. It is the seventh year of what is now an annual fixture in the club’s calendar.

It was hosted this year by Emerald Primary School.

The audience consisted of Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Tammy Radford, Rotary District 9810 Governor Ian Ballantyne, District Speech Contest Coordinator Marlene Sinclair, Emerald Rotary President Sangeeta Bajaj, club members and the students’ families.

Six local Primary Schools - Cockatoo, Emerald, Gembrook, Macclesfield, Menzies Creek and Selby - were asked to hold public speaking heats within their schools to determine the two students who would represent their school at the event.

The chosen children spoke for three minutes on a topic from a predetermined list of 12 subjects and were judged by a panel consisting of members from Toastmasters. The children compete for three prizewinning places, each receiving a Certificate of Achievement and a book voucher.

The student who comes first also received an engraved trophy for themselves and one for their school.

The standard of presentations was high and the competition was close. The winner was Maya from Cockatoo Primary School whose chosen subject was “Through the Microscope”.

Second place was taken by Siena also from Cockatoo Primary School with Wil from Gembrook Primary School coming a close third.

The awards were presented by Mayor Radford.

Both Maya and Siena will now go through to the Rotary District 9810 Speech Speaking final, which this year is being held by the Manningham Rotary Club on Wednesday 15 November.

Students from Cockatoo, Emerald, Gembrook, Macclesfield, Menzies Creek and Selby primary schools, who were chosen to represent their respective schools at the Rotary Youth Primary School Speech Contest at Emerald Primary School on Tuesday 24 October, with District Speech Contest Coordinator Marlene Sinclair, Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Tammy Radford, Rotary District 9810 Governor Ian Ballantyne, and Emerald Rotary President Sangeeta Bajaj.

Picture: SUPPLIED mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

ADVERTORIAL

Be Comfy: Your Partner in Energy Efficiency and Comfort In a world where climate change and rising energy costs are becoming increasingly concerning, there is a growing need for practical solutions to make our homes more energyPicture: SUPPLIED

Stories of the great storm The Hills Creative Alliance team are working with Cameron Semmens, a professional author and book designer, to collect memories of the 2021 storm and its aftermath, for a community archive project that will result in a book and the permanent archiving of stories.

This is funded by Yarra Ranges Council.The project is aimed at capturing the experiences of those who experienced the devastating storm and its aftermath.

Only some of the stories will be chosen to be published in the book, but all stories submitted will become part of an official community archive of the event. People may also have photographs, paintings, poetry or other ways they recorded this exceptional event. Over the next year the Hills Creative Alliance will be working with the Yarra Ranges Archives in Lilydale, as well as the State Archives and local historical societies and others to ensure that stories of the storm are recorded and accessible in the future.

The call for stories is for 300 words maximum, with up to 3 photos to accompany your words. Send them to cam@webcameron.com by 25th November, or you can attend one of the community story sharing and writing ses-

sions, facilitated by Cameron Semmens, over the next month at Sassafras Hall: please check www.hillscreativealliance.com for details or email HCA Secretary, Liz Millman: lizmillman@ yahoo.co.uk The Hills Creative Alliance, which was set up in the wake of 2021 storm disaster, has supported a range of a community activities since then. As well as this project to collect and archive the stories of the storm, the HCA team are also trained with Emerald Community House and now produce the ‘Hills Community Focus’ quarterly magazine.

There are also volunteer opportunities as the Hills Creative Alliance have also restarted ‘Community Focus Friday’ sessions at Sassafras Hall each Friday Morning from 10.30am, with opportunities to catch up with others and to share stories about life in the Hills after the last storm, or get involved in the planning and production of future editions of the Hills Community Focus magazine.

For more information contact HCA Secretary, Liz Millman: lizmillman@yahoo.co.uk

More campers set to visit Bunyip State Park The state government is creating more opportunities for people to camp across the state, with Bunyip State Park the latest spot to receive an upgrade.

Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos announced Dyers Camping and Picnic Area had recieved tent-only camping spaces for up to 40 visitors, thanks to a $100,000 investment.

Surrounded by towering manna gums and beside a creek, the flat grassy area has new fire pits and tables for campers to enjoy.

The works have also upgraded the campground’s toilet facilities and improved signage across the campsite.

Near Gembrook, the site is surrounded by nature and home to many native animals - with circuit walking trails of various lengths passing the camping area.

Also within Bunyip State Park, Nash Creek Camping Ground will soon receive upgrades – including new fire pits, tables, landscaping and creating additional campsites so it can cater for tents, motorhomes and caravans.

These campgrounds are free and can be enjoyed any time, with no bookings needed. Campers need to bring their own drinking water and firewood. Dogs and other domestic animals are not permitted within Bunyip State Park.

Both campground projects are part of the Labor Government’s Victoria’s Great Outdoors program - a $106.6 million investment to improve campgrounds, walking trails, 4WD tracks and visitor facilities across the state’s parks and state forests.

The program has so far delivered 31 new campgrounds and upgraded 57, with more upgrades still to come. People will also be mailcommunity.com.au

efficient, healthy, and comfortable.

Be Comfy, a local business owned by Caroline Burgess, is at the forefront of this movement, offering home energy efficiency advice services that are tailored to your specific needs and budget.

The Be Comfy Difference Caroline Burgess, a qualified Home Energy Adviser and accredited assessor approved by the Victorian Government, leads Be Comfy with a passion for helping people and caring for our environment. Unlike many other companies in the energy efficiency industry, Be Comfy is not here to make quick money.

Caroline firmly believes in providing genuine solutions that truly benefit homeowners, without any pressure tactics, greenwashing, or unnecessary marketing gimmicks.

Your Comfort, Your Savings Be Comfy’s main service offering is the Residential Efficiency Scorecard in-home assessment, a government-endorsed program that provides recommendations to lower energy consumption and enhance comfort.

The Scorecard helps you prioritise cost-effective simple changes, while budgeting for any bigger upgrades. This service is suitable for all types of homes, whether you’re renting or in your forever home.

Personalised Energy Efficiency Advice What sets Be Comfy apart is the personal touch. It can be hard making sense of your high energy bills or why your house is uncomfortable. Caroline takes the time to understand your unique circumstances and budget constraints, ensuring that the advice you receive is tailored to your needs.

Be Comfy can advise you on all aspects of home energy efficiency - from insulation and draught-proofing, curtains, blinds, and outdoor shading, through to energy efficient options for hot water, heating/cooling and solar PV - or a tailored step-by-step plan to cover them all!

Your Path to Comfort Begins Here Caroline’s mission is clear: to help you be comfy at home while reducing your bills and environmental footprint. As the weather bureau predicts a hot summer, now is the perfect time to prepare your home for energy efficiency.

Be Comfy can help you keep your summer air conditioning bills in check and ensure you’re comfortable year-round.

Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or just curious about how to make your home more energy-efficient, Be Comfy is your trusted partner.

Contact Caroline at hello@becomfy.com.au or call 0493 565 778.

Dyers Camp and picnic ground in the Bunyip State Forest.

Picture: PARKS VICTORIA able to enjoy more than 30 kilometres of improved walking trails and 125 kilometres of upgraded four-wheel driving track throughout Victoria.

Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos said Bunyip State Park offers people a chance to feel “completely immersed” in nature while still being close to Melbourne.

“Projects delivered through Victoria’s Great Outdoors create jobs and help to provide a boost to regional tourism - while encouraging more people to enjoy the Victoria’s natural landscapes,” Mr Dimopoulos said.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing said this upgrade will “encourage more people” to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful Bunyip State Park.

To find out more about the program, please visit exploreoutdoors.vic.gov.au/ investing-in-nature/victorias-great-outdoors-program.

12644477-AP45-23

Liz Millman, Cameron Semmens and Paige Caves.

Home Energy Advice I can help you...

> be comfy at home in any weather > lower your energy bills > choose efficient appliances > reduce your home's emissions

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hello@becomfy.com.au

www.becomfy.com.au Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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MAIL 17

NEWS

Fright night was a hit in Monbulk this year.

Archie and Arthur.

A horse painted as a skeleton was spotted walking in Monbulk.

Arthur and Kip.

Monbulk frightfully good

By Tyler Wright Scary costumes and sweet treats were aplenty in Monbulk this Halloween, with hundreds of people flocking to celebrate the spooky season.

Locals Sophie Siegel and Glen McLeod held their own house party, decorating the front of their property with crosses and creepy hands coming out of the ground.

“We decorated the front yard and we had a barbecue and people came and brought lollies with them to act as a trick or treat bowl, which is great,“ Sophie said.

Harley Quinn and the joker, horses being ridden down the street painted as a skeleton, and Glen’s ’gross-eries’ outfit were all part of the spectacle.

A chef by trade, Glen got creative by ghoulish treats - including eyeball cupcakes and spiderweb curried eggs.

“Jenny from across the road bought 360 little tic tac containers - she thought that would be heaps - she went through 170 in 23 minutes,“ Glen said.

“There was a big contingent from The Patch Primary School...there would have been about 700 kids there.

In preparation for the spookiest event on the holiday calendar, the couple created a Facebook page to help people understand the etiquette of trick or treating.

“We moved to Monbulk just before Covid and our eldest child is five, so prior to us being here and Covid there have been houses that have gone all out for Halloween, but after Covid - the first year back - everyone was looking for

From left to right: Kip, Archie and Arthur enjoying the scary decorations on display.

Some punters were not all too impressed with all of the hors d’oeuvres on offer - including spiderweb devilled eggs.

community engagement,“ Glen said.

“We realised that there’s a lot of people who have moved to the hills since Covid.“ Sophie said most parents do not have the experience of trick or treating on Halloween, with older people wanting to participate but not realising they need to put decorations out.

“They get the lollies and they get upset that no one came to their door because they didn’t realise that they need to put the decorations out to indicate that, so there was a lot of confusion around it,” she said.

Sophie said there were mixed reactions to the Facebook page she and Glen created a few

weeks out from the day.

“There was a few people like ’I don’t understand why we celebrate Halloween, it’s an American thing’ and then there’s a bunch of other people who live on this road that are like ’I used to be a Halloween Scrooge and then I experienced it and I realised why people like it,’“ she said.

“We didn’t get into it before this, but we realised how much fun it is and we invited some of our older neighbours as well who don’t have kids my parents came up from Croydon and they just loved sitting there and watching all the kids in costumes

“It’s that sort of vibe - it’s full on because it’s just constant groups of kids and my kids were handing out lollies to them - they were kind of overwhelmed but loving it.“ Glen said he would like to get local schools involved in next year’s Halloween celebrations and see teenagers on their bikes marshalling the streets.

“We even spoke about getting a local real estate agent to sponsor some ’don’t knock’ signs that people put on their letter boxes so you don’t get 300 children knocking on your door asking you if you’ve got candy,“ he said.

Coonara Community House celebrated their 10th year of Halloween in Upper Ferntree Gully.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Dominic and Jacob having a great time.

Picture: TANYA STEELE

Isabel and Ella enjoyed trick or treating in the sunshine.

Picture: TANYA STEELE

Spooky season draws crowds to Upper Ferntree Gully

By Tanya Faulkner The spooky season proved to be a popular occasion in Upper Ferntree Gully, with a local community group seizing the opportunity to make new connections in the community.

Coonara Community House have been participating in Halloween celebrations for the past decade, handing out candy to local children dressed in their favourite costumes, and coming together with their neighbours.

Event coordinator Mandy Limb said this year, however, was their busiest year they’ve had in a long time.

“We gave out 1500 lollies between 4pm and 7pm, with so many children coming along to say hello.

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“Our neighbours carried on even longer than we did, it was that busy.

“There were just streams of families walking up and down Willow Road,” she said.

For Ms Limb, it was all about the costumes and connections being made in the community.

“The costumes were amazing, from inflatable dinosaurs to cute pumpkins, we were so inspired by the efforts that the community went to, it was great,” she said.

Many of the students who went through the Community House on the evening of 31 October were those who Ms Limb said were past students of their kindergarten.

“The best part about Coonara is seeing the kids that used to attend early learning who are

now teenagers, who had come down and had a chat about their kinder experiences.

“One boy who came along, who used to go to our 3-year old kindergarten, walked past dressed as a tradie with his teenage friends, and I heard him telling his friends ‘I used to come to this kindergarten, it was amazing’.

“Once we got talking to him, we then recognised who he was.

“Good to have that conversation, bringing a sense of belonging to the community, with people still coming back for our events.

“It was so special, creating a sense of belonging in the community through our young ones, really was so amazing,” she said.

For the Community House, Halloween is an annual tradition to deepen its

community connections.

“For us it is wonderful to be able to connect with our neighbours, who go all out decorating houses.

“We often share lollies with each other, and we like to check in and see how they’re going,” she said.

Ms Limb said the house hosts a lot of events throughout the year to encourage locals to stay connected with each other.

“For us in the community it’s about coming together and connecting, it’s the most important thing we can do.

“We try to encourage togetherness throughout the entire community, and our doors are always open,” she said. mailcommunity.com.au

MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Treating osteoporosis Osteoporosis is when the structure of the bone becomes less dense and thus weaker which increases the risk of the bone breaking.

Osteoporosis can affect any of the 206 bones in your body.

However, research shows that common sites include hip, wrist, and spine.

Low bone density is more common than you think with over one million Australians over the age of 50 years having either Osteoporosis or Osteopenia.

Osteoporosis is often a silent disease that usually has no symptoms until the bone is overloaded from a fall or impact resulting in a fracture therefore a lot of Australians may not know they have either Osteoporosis or Osteopenia.

Common risk factors include, family history, low calcium intake, low vitamin D levels, medical history such as low hormone levels, Coeliac disease, Diabetes, certain Breast Cancer treatments or Prostate Cancer, Anorexia Nervosa, corticosteroids, Thyroid conditions, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Chronic Kidney or Liver disease, certain Epilepsy, Antidepressant or HIV treatment, lifestyle factors such as low levels of physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, thin body build or obesity can impact bone health. Speak with your Doctor if you have any questions.

Osteoporosis and Osteopenia are diagnosed with a bone density scan known as a DEXA scan or bone density test; you can receive a referral from your doctor.

This scan measures the density and health of the bones in your body.

The machine is a large, padded table which you lie flat on with an extended arm that passes over your body.

The scan usually takes 10-15mins to complete, which you remain clothed.

Back in Motion can help treat osteoporosis and osteopenia through a specially designed exercise program.

Your doctor will receive the results post scan.

If you have been diagnosed with either Osteoporosis or Osteopenia (the early stage that can lead to Osteoporosis) then exercise can help.

Research shows that only certain types of exercise can help with bone health and that not all exercise is created equal when it comes to improving bone health.

The ONERO exercise program has been created for people who have Osteopenia and Osteoporosis.

It is an evidence-based exercise program developed in Australia that is fully supervised by a certified health professional.

It is targeted to improve bone health using high intensity resistance and impact training that is safe and reduces the risk for osteoporotic fracture.

An initial assessment and 1on1 sessions are conducted prior to the small group sessions to ensure that your technique is safe as well as assessing your current level to start the program.

Picture: SUPPLIED

The program includes fall prevention and balance to help prevent falls as well as lowering fracture risk.

Back In Motion Tecoma and Back In Motion Monbulk run the ONERO program at various times throughout the week.

To book in an initial ONERO assessment call us on 9754 8772 or visit us at www.backinmotion.com.au/tecoma to find out more and book online your initial ONERO assessment with Cass our Exercise Physiologist

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MAIL 19

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Bird Child Spirit features approximately 600 carefully selected sound recordings of children mimicking bird calls.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Bird Child Spirit is suspended within the enclosed grove of ornamental trees at Yering Station.

Picture: DONGYUN KWON

Artist Peter Mcilwain.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Different approach pays

By Dongyun Kwon Artist Peter Mcilwain won the Yering Station Sculpture Award 2023 with his innovative sound installation, Bird Child Spirit.

Mcilwain said he was honoured to be awarded after a long time of struggle.

“It’s a relief to know that I can actually keep going with my artwork in my 60s and I am really happy to have received recognition,” he said.

Bird Child Spirit features approximately 600 carefully selected sound recordings of children mimicking bird calls, all expertly guided and recorded by Mcilwain.

The recordings are woven together in a spatial composition using sophisticated software designed by the artist.

This captivating nine-channel installation is suspended within the enclosed grove of ornamental trees at Yering Station.

Mcilwain said the idea came from a question about how to relate people to sound.

“I’ve been thinking about this question for about 20 years and the idea of putting sounds out in bushland spaces started to develop gradually,” he said.

Drawing on influences from composers such as Messiaen, Lutoslawski and Peter Sculthorpe, Mcilwain emphasises the poetic possibility of natural soundscapes with a delightful disarming surface which invites deeper engagement.

Mcilwain said he tried to prompt people to listen to the sounds of birds in a different way by asking people to think about the meaning of it.

“I’m able to connect those sounds with a bunch of different cultural meanings. For example, the idea [that sound can represent] the voices of angels, spirits or beings from mythology. The same thing is true for children. Children’s voices are often associated with other types of beings, supernatural beings,” he said.

“What I’m interested in is the idea that sounds in the natural world have the ability to take us into cultural imaginings and cultural spaces we don’t normally occupy.”

Bird Child Spirit is an ongoing project and

Artist Peter Mcilwain won the Yering Station Sculpture Award 2023 with his innovative sound installation, Bird Child Spirit. approximately 60 local children have participated in it so far.

“As a community-driven art project, Bird Child Spirit engages local children, instilling a sense of ownership by amplifying their creativity in a professional work of art,” Mcilwain said.

“Ghilgai School in Kilsyth alongside numer-

ous families from the region have enjoyed direct experience of this creative process.”

The artwork is supported by the community arts grant from the Yarra Ranges Council and the installation has made a mark in Selby and Mount Evelyn prior to its current home at Yering Station.

Picture: SUPPLIED

As a result of Mcilwain’s distinctive approach, his work has been acknowledged internationally for its originality and significant contributions to contemporary sound art.

The Yering Sculpture Exhibition 2023 includes many well-known artists from the Yarra Ranges region including award winners.

Finding the truth in a play full of in-depth studies

By Matthew Sims Who are we but a mixture of personalities, hopes, dreams and anxieties?

This is the question at the centre of a new play currently showing at Gemco Players Theatre in Emerald, with remaining shows on Friday 10 November at 7.30pm, Saturday 11 November at 2pm and 7.30pm and Sunday 12 November at 2pm.

Originally written by American playwright Olwen Wymark in 1977, ‘Find Me’ is based on a true story and follows the protagonist Verity Taylor as she is dealing with increasingly damaging mental health issues.

Verity’s family becomes fractured in their search for answers from a health system which does not have answers for Verity’s particular case and so doctors and other medical 20 MAIL

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Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

health practitioners find themselves unable to appropriately help.

Director Andrew Tomazos said the idea to perform the play came out of the Covid pandemic and the way in which a number of the themes resonated with him and current events.

“We were out of work for a while,” he said.

“We were looking at a number of scripts.

“It really kind of hit home a little bit.”

Tomazos said the play employed a technique known as ‘multi-characterisation’ wherein actors swap the main roles and work as an ensemble to find the true identity of the characters, with each of the eight cast members playing a number of different characters.

“It feels like an in-depth character study,” he said.

“The audience gets a different perspective of every character.

“It intentionally breaks the fourth wall.”

Tomazos said each of the actors discovered their aspects of each character via improvisation and exploration.

“It’s a very challenging concept to wrap your head around,” he said.

“Finding their own version of each character was a challenge.”

Tomazos said there were a number of scenes which were “very intense and very extreme”, dealing with isolation and mental illness.

“I thought it was going to be an important play to do,” he said.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.gemcoplayers.org.

Gemco Players Theatre are enjoying finding their multifaceted roles with Find Me. Picture: SUPPLIED mailcommunity.com.au

Price range $350,000 to $590,000

Discover retirement living with

a litt le extra support Modern retirement

apartments now selling

Roseville Retirement Living is a vibrant and well-established community in Doncaster East set amongst 13 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths and greenery. Conveniently situated near shops, transport and amenities, residents enjoy a low-maintenance and social lifestyle, participating in activities such as bowls on the green, arts and crafts, exercise classes, themed lunches and day trips to Yarra Valley.

With spacious 2 bedroom villas as well as studio and 2 bedroom apartments with services offering a more supported lifestyle, and 24/7 emergency call system, enjoy peace of mind in retirement.

Take the first step and call 13 28 36 or visit aveo.com.au/roseville to book your discovery tour today.

*Prices of available stock current as at 13 October 2023. The entry payment and any other amounts payable depend on any available contract option you select. A regular general service fee will be payable and you may have to pay a departure fee when you leave the village. Furnishings not included. Services, facilities and activities vary between communities, and are subject to change.

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110 King Street, Doncaster East

MAIL 21

SENIORS LIVING

Help gives peace of mind Peace of mind in retirement is knowing you have a little extra support around if you need it, so you can continue living independently for as long as possible. Roseville Retirement Living by Aveo in Doncaster East provides residents an enviable, low-maintenance lifestyle with spacious villas, or apartments with services such as meals and housekeeping, and a range of amenities and social activities on offer.

The vibrant community is perfectly located close to shops, cafes, restaurants, hospitals and public transport, including a bus stop at the village entrance. The community bus also takes residents on shopping trips and outings. Community Manager, Bert Morano, says residents appreciate having support around them, and facilities on their doorstep. There’s also a 24/7 emergency call system for added peace of mind.

“Many of us would relish in the lifestyle a retirement village offers at any stage in life, and it’s no different at Roseville,” Mr Morano said.

“Retirement living is all about choice. Here, residents can choose to cook at home, or enjoy delicious chef prepared meals with like-minded neighbours in the dining room. They can be as involved in activities as much or a little as they like, and friends and family are always welcome to visit.

“With some of the domestic chores taken care of, there’s more time to do the things you enjoy – like coffee with friends, arts and crafts, card games, exercise classes or reading a book.

“Our friendly team can also provide guidance on how to access government funding for Home Care Services suited to individually-assessed needs.” Set amongst beautifully landscaped gardens, Roseville Retirement Living is located at 110 King Street, Doncaster East. To inspect some of the modern apartments now selling, and see if it’s a place you or a loved one would like to call home, book your discovery tour on 13 28 36 or visit aveo.com.au/roseville

Food services is just one of the extras provided at Roseville to ensure residents are cared for in the best possible way.

Picture: SUPPLIED

NO stamp duty NO council rates NO hidden costs

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45 Annabella Street, Cranbourne East I 1300 50 55 60 *Prices correct as at September 2023. Subject to change without notice.

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Home 189

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Superb outdoor living!

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SENIORS LIVING

Lifestyle Communities offers an endless amount of activities including the loved billiards group.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Meet with friends for a social barbecue in the impeccable outdoor facilities.

Live your life unlimited At Lifestyle Communities we believe in life without restrictions. One with the freedom to do the things you love, and the confidence to be whoever you want to be. Where every new day is a fresh opportunity. It’s a philosophy that rings true, in our best-in-class homes and clubhouses. Whether you’re working, semi-retired or retired, come and join a community where life is unlimited.

Join in on pickleball, croquet, yoga, arts and crafts, woodworking, bowls and swimming. There are also happy hours, guest speakers, musical entertainment and much more. Plus, you’ll have loads of new friends to enjoy all of this with and a beautiful home to live in. The community is thoughtfully planned and designed making it easy to get around and enjoy.

Lifestyle Communities promotes a lifestyle that emphasises freedom. The choice to do your thing, your way. Live independently whilst also enjoying a vibrant social life and a variety of recreational activities.

Buying a home at Lifestyle Communities means embracing a life where your horizons are boundless. With a host of activities and

an abundance of new friendships waiting for you, your days will be filled with excitement and companionship. Here, you are not just living, you are thriving, and it’s a testament to the limitless possibilities of a life unencumbered by restrictions. Come and experience the freedom to be you, every day, in your new home at Lifestyle Communities. Visit lifestylecommunities.com.au

y r t n E e e Fr G E T I N T O T H E H O L I D AY S P I R I T WITH THE TUDOR VILLAGE

Christmas Market Friday, 24 November 2023, 11:00 am - 3:00pm T U D O R V I L L AG E 5 2 0 M A R O O N D A H H W Y, L I LY D A L E

Shop for special gifts, indulge in delicious food, explore resident groups and win big in our raffles. Plus, bring your friends, family and view our available homes for a festive day out that might just become your forever home sweet home!

Don’t miss this chance to make your holidays brighter.

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MAIL 23

FIRE AWARENESS

Heat prep in full swing

By Tanya Steele Summer is coming in hot this year and local emergency services are getting prepared – with one organisation tackling the resource management and planning for extreme heat days across the Yarra Ranges.

The Yarra Ranges Emergency Relief Network (YRERN) met online on Tuesday 31 October - along with representatives of CFA, SES, Vic Police, Ambulance Victoria, members of the Yarra Ranges Council hazard planning and emergency management teams and over 16 community groups.

YRERN coordinator Fiona Regan said the session was themed around heat preparation and that YRERN aims to better support the groups who are working in the emergency relief space in the Yarra Ranges.

“In terms of offering support and advocacy, we look at things that people might need more information about that would be hard to source individually as organisations,” she said.

“We’re coming into summer, we thought it’d be a good idea to get grouped together and have a look at heat preparedness.”

Ms Regan said although the community was fairly aware of bushfire risk, the organisation also wanted to talk about heat risk and heatwave risk.

“Heatstroke is actually a health outcome far more dangerous than bushfires and we know that more heat waves are coming,” she said.

YRERN opened the session with a seasonal forecast for the coming months, held a Q&A with emergency services and Yarra Ranges council staff, and shared resources on planning for heat emergencies.

“We also started conversations between groups in four different Yarra Ranges areas Urban, Valley, Hills and Upper Yarra - as mak-

The online forum began vital networking between community and emergency response groups across the Yarra Ranges.

Picture: UNSPLASH ing connections and forming relationships is a really important part of heat preparedness,” Ms Regan said.

The online forum gave attendees a chance to collaborate with YRERN and discuss potential issues with heat waves, such as power outages.

Ms Regan said a lot of the groups work in food relief and these issues require dconsideration and YRERN was encouraging them to think about the impacts.

“Particularly if you’re not in a fully struc-

NOVEMBER FIRE SAFETY SPECIALS

tured organisation, it’s not necessarily high up on the list of plans on what your organisation is going to do in certain circumstances,” she said.

“If you’ve got clients who are relying on your food pantry to be fed, but either there’s a bushfire is coming, or the power has been out for three days – what’s actually your approach to that?”

Tecoma Food is Free volunteer and Hills representative for YRERN Sue Brown said that people are used to coming into facilities for as-

Fire season hotspot alert

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sistance with food insecurity but that the Tecoma church itself closes on extreme fire days.

“We understand that people still need to access service, especially if they are evacuating and we try to put out things like water or food that can be taken on the go,” she said.

“The church runs off solar and doesn’t have a battery – so if we do lose power, we do have issues. But we do the best with the resources that we’ve currently got.”

Ms Brown said that reflecting on the 2009 bushfires, she remembers there were weeks of really hot days.

“In the mornings you had to get off the mountain – it was really difficult for vulnerable people, particularly if they didn’t have anywhere else to go,” she said.

Accessing information in times of emergency is incredibly important and Ms Regan said it can be difficult to get that information to vulnerable people.

“If you’ve got people coming to a food pantry – well then get some emergency preparedness booklets on display at the food pantry, so people can be picking them up at the same time,” she said.

Ms Regan said the meeting was a chance to pose questions which will help develop plans surrounding resources like generators.

“It’s trying to share that load between a lot of different groups and look at what works best in each area because what works in Healesville isn’t the same as what is going to work in Warburton,” she said.

“What YRERN can do is be a centralised point for information – we’re one point that people can contact, and then we can contact the 50 or more organisations that are part of the network.”

Suburban areas of several Australian capital cities are at an increased risk this fire season, new research has revealed.

Suburban Canberra will be at high risk through the upcoming fire season, 20 years after devastating summer bushfires ripped through the region in 2003.

Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne are also facing an increased fire threat over December and January, as researchers warn unburnt areas could be next in line.

Researcher Ken Kato from disaster forecasting service Early Warning Network said vegetation growth in some suburban areas could mean a particularly tough season ahead.

“There are all sorts of different factors but generally speaking if an area hasn’t had a big bushfire for quite a while, the risk is higher,“ he said.

The new research revealed several areas across the country are at a higher risk.

In Melbourne, areas of the Dandenong Ranges have not been burnt since 1997, meaning bushland and outer suburbs of the Dandenong area could be at risk.

Sydney’s north and northwest have also not experienced widespread fires in more than 30 years and a greater risk is posed to northern suburbs and the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

Risk is also forecast for northwest, southwest and island areas of Brisbane despite some significant fires on Moreton and Stradbroke islands in recent years.

“If an area hasn’t had a big bushfire for quite a while, the risk is higher,“ Ken Kato says.

Two years of La Nina weather events have led to significant vegetation growth and Mr Kato said no one was immune to the upcoming fire threat.

“The high-risk fire hotspot warnings come weeks after the Bureau of Meteorology formally declared an El Nino event in the Pacific Ocean, to Australia’s east, and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), to the west.

El Nino typically delivers above-average heat and drier conditions, particularly in eastern Australia, and a positive IOD tends to drive lower-than-average rainfall for swathes of the country. The bureau warned hot, dry conditions were expected to persist until the end of summer.

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Areas of the Dandenong Ranges have not been burnt since 1997.

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MAIL 25

FIRE AWARENESS

Prepare early for bushfire As Victoria’s weather begins to warm and we edge closer to an earlier fire season, CFA’s message to those in high-risk bushfire areas is clear – prepare your property.

Victoria can expect a warmer spring, contributing to higher fire risk in parts of the state this season, according to the latest Spring Seasonal Outlook.

There are a number of simple tasks people can complete to reduce their risk this season, and now is the time to start taking action.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said CFA crews right across the state are making every effort to prepare for this year’s fire season, but they need a collective community effort to reduce bushfire risk.

“Victoria is one of the most bushfire-prone areas in the world, so it’s vital for everyone to plan ahead,” he said.

“All it takes is some basic maintenance such as clearing your gutters, picking up loose leaves and twigs, pruning tree branches so they aren’t overhanging the roof of your property, or even just keeping your lawn under 10cm tall.

“High rainfall and moisture levels over the past 12 months will have led to vegetation growth on private properties, so it’s important to maintain your property through spring and into fire season.”

Chief Officer Heffernan also encouraged everyone to sit down with your family or household to discuss and practice their bushfire survival plan together.

“CFA has all the information you need on our website to create a clear bushfire plan with your loved ones,” he said.

“If you already have one, blow the dust off it and go over it with your family. Practicing your bushfire survival plan could save your family’s life.”

Keep grass short and rake up any leaves, sticks and excess grass to prevent fire fuel. Pictures: CFA Victorians can learn more about how to prepare their property at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/ prepare, and for more about bushfire survival plan, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/bushfireplan.

Take the following actions to prepare yourself and your property: Move your winter woodpile away from the house or sheds.

·

Ensure gutters are clear of debris heading into the late spring and summer season.

· Prune tree branches so they are not over- such as sprinklers, pumps and generators. hanging the roof or touching walls. quickest and easiest way to register your · The burn-off is by using the Fire Permits Victoria Clear your gutters. · website at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au/no· Keep grass shorter than 10cm. tify, or call ESTA on 1800 688 511. · Remove leaves and twigs from around your · Make sure your household has a Bushfire property.

Survival Plan. Find out how at cfa.vic.gov.au/ · Test anything that is part of your fire plan bushfireplan

VICTORIA IS FACING A HOT AND DRY FIRE SEASON. Fire can spread quickly, so it’s important for all Victorians to prepare.

Find out how you can plan ahead this fire season to keep you and your family safe.

Plan. Act. Survive. Go to www.vic.gov.au/knowfire Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

12645424-JB45-23

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Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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FIRE AWARENESS

AusNet has been checking and assessing powerlines across the region to ensure power outages are reduced throughout the bushfire season.

Pictures: AUSNET

AusNet has had crews in regional parts of the area, out to Reefton, to maintain a reliable power source.

Working to limit outages Victorians are being urged to prepare for an early start to the fire season and potential power outages this summer.

The recently released Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook warned there was a high chance of an early start to the fire season in Victoria this year, and fires in the Gippsland region earlier this month attest to that.

The Australian Energy Market Operator has also warned that there is increased risk of power outages this summer due to higher than usual electricity demand.

AusNet’s Executive General Manager Network Operations and Safety, Prue CrawfordFlett, said energy reliability is a key focus for AusNet, with preparations for the upcoming summer well underway.

“This year, for the region that spans from Wantirna to Reefton to Glenburn we’ve inspected 14,249 power poles from the ground and via helicopter. These inspections resulted in proactive maintenance on 1426 of these poles.

“Additionally, in this area we assessed 24,582 spans, which is the area between two power poles, for overgrown vegetation and cleared 7,016 spans as a result. This work is part of our commitment to improve safety and reliability ahead of the bushfire season,” said Ms Crawford-Flett

“We invested $52.7 million this year on vegetation management programs to ensure the network is well maintained,” said Ms Crawford-Flett.

AusNet’s electricity distribution network covers 80,000 square kilometres, which consists of 45,985 kilometres of overhead powerlines, 7,908 kilometres of underground cables, 417,145 power poles and 90,000 streetlights.

This year marks the completion of AusNet’s Rapid Earth Fault Current Limiter (REFCL) program as part of the Victorian Government’s Powerline Bushfire Safety program.

“REFCL’s operate like a safety switch, rapidly cutting power to fallen or damaged powerlines before a fire can start, reducing the risk of bushfires in our communities.

“Our REFCL’s have been built and tested over seven years and have detected a number of faults since 2018, potentially avoiding fires from starting,” Ms Crawford-Flett added.

AusNet will continue to prepare for Victoria’s energy future by investing in projects that increase network capacity, improve reliability, introduce more renewable energy into the network and protect our communities from bushfires.

Preparing for power outages It’s important to be power prepared and know

what to do before, during and after a power outage. Life support customers should have an up-to-date emergency plan with their medical practitioner and be ready to use it during an outage. Our life support priority line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 1800 818 832.

Don’t wait for the emergency to have a plan.

You should know your risk and have a plan in place for power outages, bushfires, storms and flash flooding.

Make sure you have a plan ready to go if the power goes out. The tips below will help reduce the impacts on you and your family and keep you safe.

Here are some tips to help you prepare Before an outage Make sure you have an emergency management plan know what you need to do in the event of an emergency.

Put together an emergency kit in an easy to access place and let everyone know where it is. As a start you should have battery operated devices such as a radio to receive important information in the event of an outage and a torch. Make sure you keep spare batteries in there too.

Check to make sure that your medical supplies are fully stocked.

· ·

·

sure you can open your garage or fence · Make manually so you can leave your home if the power goes out.

sure your phone is fully charged. Re· Make member, some phones only work with electricity.

have an electric water pump, stock up · Ifonyou bottled water. you have a private overhead electric line on · Ifyour property, ensure its clear of vegetation.

Contact a registered electrician to repair damaged poles, or a certified tree clearer to remove unwanted vegetation.

If you are a life support customer: If you require oxygen, make sure the cylinders are filled and working.

See if you can visit a friend, family member or hospital when the power is out.

Ask a neighbour to check on you during the outage.

Keep all important phone numbers handy for example your doctor, the nearest hospital, the local taxi service, and AusNet’s emergency number 13 17 99.

For further tips on how to prepare for power outages go to: www.ausnetservices.com.au/ powerprepared and for updates on current outages, go to AusNet’s outage tracker at www. outagetracker.com.au.

· · · ·

Salvos’ ebook helps to get financially fit for disasters With bushfire warnings spreading across Australia as we head into the warmer months, The Salvation Army’s free and confidential financial counselling service, Moneycare, is urging people to “plan for the unplanned” with a new resource.

Planning for the Unplanned is a free online book that provides practical and financial advice on how to prepare for the upcoming disaster season and includes stories of everyday Aussies who have faced and survived the devastation of natural disasters.

This follows recent reports suggesting a hot and dry summer is on the way, with the Australasian Fire Authorities Council predicting an increased risk of bushfire across the country.

The Salvation Army has had a key presence in disaster zones for over 50 years.

Throughout the Black Summer bushfires alone, the Salvos assisted more than 13,000 people with short and long-term financial, emotional and practical support**.

“The Salvos’ Moneycare service has seen the devastating impact that natural disasters can have on people right around the country. The last few years have been tough, with floods and fires hitting most parts of the country,” head of The Salvation Army’s Moneycare team Kristen Hartnett said. mailcommunity.com.au

“This is why we developed this new resource. We want people to be prepared and plan for the unplanned, so they can face anything that is thrown their way. So please access our free book online and utilise our practical tips to protect you and your family.”

The book covers a range of areas that will better equip people for the upcoming fire season. Some of these tips include: Understanding insurance.

Getting financially prepared with a money plan.

Importance of an emergency fund.

Creating a go bag with essentials for an emergency situation.

Understanding your rights.

“Our hope is that this book will reveal things you are already doing well and shine a light on things you have the power to change.

“Each person’s financial and physical circumstances are different, so this program is tailored to ensure anyone can feel more able to manage, should they face a disaster,” Ms Hartnett said.

To access a copy of Planning for the Unplanned, or to find out more information about The Salvation Army’s free and confidential Moneycare service, visit salvationarmy.org.au

· · · · ·

The Salvation Army Moneycare tool is available to help prepare financially for natural disasters.

Picture: UNSPLASH Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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MAIL 27

Ring Terry Miller direct for the the best best prices prices

BEST PRICE, BEST TANKS WITH A LIFETIME GUARANTEE It’s time to catch it, order and build your concrete tank NOW!!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sizes from 22,000 to 120,000 litres 28 MAIL

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Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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

12642944-ET45-23

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

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

TL1648715

mailcommunity.com.au

OPINION

Tedious Foe

Foe Starring Saiorse Ronan, Paul Mescal and Aaron Pierre Rated M 3.25/5 Signs across Mount Evelyn tell of the towns history. 269079

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Signs of our history Yarra Ranges Council, in consultation with local groups, has provided information boards on the history and the environment at several of Mt Evelyn’s trails and reserves.

There are four signs at Quinn Reserve, located at the various entrances. They deal with the history of the Reserve; the bush environment; the platypus, which is found in Olinda Creek; and work of the the Friends of Water Race and Quinn Reserve (FWRQR), a volunteer group that cares for the Reserve.

The Friends also care for the Water Race, which provided Lilydale’s first water supply.

Opened in 1905, the Water Race skirts the gully at Quinn Reserve and continues to the Puddle Dam on Birmingham Road. Another sign there gives the history of the Water Race and the Dam. Near the Hereford Road crossing on the Warburton Rail Trail, there is a sign with the history of the nearby First Aid Post, where Railway First Aiders from all over Victoria held their annual competitions. There are two recently installed signs on the Rail Trail between Monbulk Road and the Bailey Road bridge. One deals with the Stringybark tree and its many uses for Aboriginal people. The other is a beautiful panel of the Birds of Mt Evelyn. These last two signs even have audio, powered by miniature solar panels. Press the buttons to hear bird names and a chant in the Woi Wurrung language of the Wurundjeri people.

Two further signs are located on the Olinda Creek Trail between Swansea Road and Olinda Creek (now within the Lilydale postcode area, but formerly part of Mt Evelyn). One sign deals with Aboriginal scar trees, of which there are a number in the Olinda Creek valley, and the technique of making bark canoes.

The other sign is on the site of Walden Hut,

A sign has now been installed to recognise the Walden Hut as part of Mount Evelyn’s history.

Picture: SUPPLIED where a group of young amateur naturalists camped to study the local bird life in the early years of the 20th century. Mt Evelyn History Group’s publication The Woodlanders of Walden Hut by Janice Newton was launched on 16 September. We are grateful to Yarra Ranges

Final seasons of theatre Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Fracked or Please Don’t Use the F-Word.

How would you feel about sitting in front of a nice village pub on a sunny afternoon while convoys of 40-tonne tankers roll past six feet away.

Deerland Energy’s plan to drill for shale as in the pretty village of Fenstock is going well.

The company is looking at big profits with scientists and Councillors open to lucrative offers.

The only slight snag is a ragged band of protestors, headed by just another ‘mad old biddy’, Elizabeth Blackwood.

Season: Thursday 16 November – Saturday 2 December.

Bookings: 9735 1777 Office hours: Monday, Tuesday and Friday between 10am and 2pm. .

Mooroolbark Theatre Group Farndale Ave… Production of a Christmas Carol In festive mood, the Farndale Avenue Housing Estate Townswomen’s Guild Dramatic Society mounted another assault on the classics with their stage version of A Christmas Carol. With great enthusiasm, the cast present a dizzy array of characters from the favourite Dicken-

· · ·

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Council staff for their efforts in getting the sign installed in time for us to visit it as part of our book launch.

The historical and environmental signage adds to the enjoyment of our trails and reserves, which we’re so fortunate to have in Mt Evelyn.

Based on the novel by Ian Reid, Foe is a dull, tedious science fiction drama.

The lives of Hen (Saiorse Ronan) and Junior (Paul Mescal) are upended when a strange man named Terrance (Aaron Pierre) gives them a life-changing proposition.

Foe features starkly beautiful cinematography and a brooding score with exotic and electronic touches.The performances are sombre and graceful, and Pierre is compelling as a grinning, shady corporate man who infiltrates Hen and Junior’s lives, but the characters are thinly-sketched and the dialogue feels stilted and unnatural: dramatic, but without the writerly depth of The Devil All The Time or Past Lives. Foe has some unsettling moments of Junior’s sanity slipping and Terrence getting under the couple’s skin, but the bulk of the flat, overlong narrative is just scenes of Hen and Junior’s stagnant but loving relationship. The film has a confronting climax in its surface emotions, but the question of whether a copy can replace and have the same complexity of feeling as the original carries little weight when we know very little about Hen and Junior in the first place.

Science fiction dramas such as Looper, Vivarium and After Yang feature subtle world-building that makes their futuristic settings all the more immersive, but Foe’s sci-fi world-building is paper-thin.

Beyond spoken exposition and some fleeting shots of a future metropolis and a space station, Foe could be any romantic drama set on a remote farm.

The atrocious Loveland from last year is poorly thought-out and steals its cityscapes from Blade Runner, but at least feels like sci-fi. A shallow sci-fi drama about love, stasis and lack of fulfilment that fails to fulfil and can barely be considered science fiction, Foe is playing at select Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

CARTOON

Kemp’s curtain call sian (and some which aren’t) under the everbattling leadership of Thelma and Mrs Reece.

Throughout the play, Mrs Reece engineers some novel audience participation while bravely contending with a chatty-intrusive PA system.

A review of the play describes it as ‘another classic, dramatic massacre with an awesome, convincing idiocy that enthrals, despite one’s better judgment Season: 10 – 19 November REMEMBER: The 1812 Theatre Art Bookings: 9758 3064 The Basin Theatre The Sum of Us Bookings: 1300 784 668

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MAIL 29

PUZZLES No. 158

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

easy

6

2 9

5

1 8 6

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

6

9 6 2 8 5 1

7 6 3 2 1

ACROSS

DOWN

Withdraws (7) Questions (7) Exaggerated statements (9) Cold meat dish served in a jellied mould (5) Sudden gust of wind (6) Actress, – Jolie (8) College (6) Yield (4) Biblical garden (4) Art of dwarfing shrubs or trees (6) Used to hold a letter (8) Part of former Yugoslavia; capital Sarajevo (6) Basic food made with water, flour and yeast (5) Belonging to a thing by its very nature (9) Someone who has stopped working for a living (7) Coach (7)

1 5 9 10 11 12 14 15 19 20 24 25 27 28 29 30

No. 158

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 13 16 17 18 21 22 23 26

Division (6) Mediterranean Island nation (6) Neglected (8) Frozen flakes (4) Australian state (10) Rubber (6) Broken (8) Athenian philosopher (8) Wooden spoon, proverbially (5,5) Recall (8) With the most mass (8) Camellia (8) Engineless aircraft (6) Simultaneous performance of action, speech or song (6) Shallow dish to hold a cup (6) Sport tidbit (abbr) (4)

DECODER

No. 158

1 3

4 6 2 3 8 9 1

1 8

4 7

QUICK CROSSWORD

5 3 7 1 5 hard

8 3

4

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10 11 12 13

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

B Z 16

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

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

L

C

Today’s Aim: 8 words: Good 12 words: Very good

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

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

17 words: Excellent

hard

7

15

medium

2

3 LETTERS ACE AGE ALE BOA CHI DEN DIM EEL EGG EWE GNU ITS NET NIL NIP ODE OFF ONE ORE ROD SEE TOP TOY USE

P O H E G MN C V Y R U T

easy

1

14

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

K Q X S L D F I W J A B Z

E

O

S

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L

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4 LETTERS DAUB DREW ERAS FEAT NICK ROSE SAGS SEES SITS STAG TOSS TRAP TUBS WEST

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

5 LETTERS ABODE ABOVE

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

No. 158

' 5 , ) 7

AGILE AGREE ALLEY AROMA BELIE BUYER CAGEY CHASE CHIEF CIVIC COPES DIMES DRIFT EERIE ERROR EVERY FIRES GONER GRANT GUILT HEADS HOARD

cell, cello, CELLULOSE, close, clue, clues, cole, coleus, coulee, cues, else, lose, louse, sell, sloe, slue, sole

5

WORDFIT

ICIER IMAGE INANE KILTS OGLED ORBIT PAVED PEARL SASSY SCENE SNOWS SNUFF SPICE STEER STYLE SURER TIGHT TSARS UNITY UNTIE VERGE WATTS

WHEEL WIDOW WIDTH YELPS

PARTNER SUNDIAL TERSEST

6 LETTERS CAPERS PEDDLE STAYED WRITES

8 LETTERS DEMUREST DEPRAVES INITIATE OMELETTE

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

SUDOKU

10-11-23

William Matthews Funerals 24 HOUR SERVICE - ALL AREAS

9739 6868 45 Cave Hill Rd, Lilydale www.williammatthewsfunerals.com.au 12567433-SN37-22

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Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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PROPERTY

FLAT ACREAGE, POOL AND BARN See page 32

PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

FLAT ACREAGE, POOL AND BARN THIS magnificent property boasts an expansive flat acre plus of land, providing ample space for your family’s desires. With a total of five bedrooms, including two ensuited, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and privacy.

Step inside, and you’ll immediately notice the extensive updates that have been carefully crafted to cater to today’s modern lifestyle. The result is a home that seamlessly combines contemporary amenities with timeless charm.

One of the highlights of this property is the inviting pool, where you can relax and unwind on sunny days. Surrounding the house are well-established gardens that add a touch of nature’s beauty to the setting.

For those who enjoy cooking and entertaining, the chef’s kitchen is wellappointed with top-of-the-line appliances, stone benchtops and walk in pantry, ensuring that every culinary experience is a delight. The excellent living spaces provide the perfect backdrop for family gatherings and memorable moments.

Step outside and embrace the fresh air on the wide wrap-around veranda, offering breathtaking views of the property’s lush surroundings. This is the perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee or evening sunsets.

Practicality is not overlooked, with a 2-car barn with mezzanine and a double carport that provide ample covered parking for your vehicles.

Don’t miss the opportunity to make this spacious family home with its extensive updates, pool, established gardens, chef’s kitchen, excellent living spaces, and a wide wrap-around veranda your own. Your dream family home awaits. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 5 Francis Street, COCKATOO Description: 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 4 garage Price: $1,350,000 - $1,480,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 and Erin Davies 0493 136 937, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL, 9754 6111 32 MAIL

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Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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PROPERTY NEWS

Photo taken at recent Community Bank Upwey anniversary event.

RAFFLE CELEBRATING 25-YEAR ANNIVERSARIES DANDENONG Ranges Community Finance Limited are running a raffle in conjunction with Burrinja, as both are celebrating 25year anniversaries. Community Bank Upwey turned 25 in October, and Burrinja turns 25 in November.

“To celebrate our 25 years in the community we are running a community raffle with $25,000 worth of prizes. This raffle aims for community groups to register their interest in selling tickets, with ALL

proceeds from ticket sales to be directed back to that community group. We provide the prizes, and the community groups reap the benefits. We are very excited about this community raffle and are being assisted by the Dandenong Ranges Community Cultural Centre (Burrinja), which is also celebrating 25 years in our community this November. We are most grateful to them for their support,” Community Bank Chair, Ms. Weber said.

Creative Director and CEO of Burrinja,

Gareth Hart advised, “Birthdays are something we regularly celebrate for people, and rarely for organisations. So, to have a joint celebration for two locally minded organisations in the Dandenong Ranges is a special thing indeed.

Burrinja is very pleased to partner with the Dandenong Ranges Community Bank Group on this project, as both organisations share similar core purposes: to support this community to thrive.

From humble beginnings in the late 1990’s Burrinja has continued to grow and expand its creative remit, as we see more artists, more art and more creative participation locally.

We are taking this moment to celebrate the ongoing support and connection we feel from this very special community,” Mx Hart said.

We encourage all local groups to grab this opportunity to raise funds for their club/group. Enquiries should be directed to communityraffle@drcbg.com.au ●

S E G N A R G N O N E DAND

Y T I N U M M O C LE RAFF L

DOES YOUR GROUP WANT TO TAKE PART? SCAN QR TO EMAIL YOUR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST communityraffle@drcbg.com.au

$25,000 OF GOLD TO BE WON PROMOTER

100% OF TICKET SALES RAISE MUCH NEEDED FUNDS FOR COMMUNITY GROUPS WITHIN THE DANDENONG RANGES.

PRIZES PROVIDED BY

T&C'S APPLY VICTORIA (VIC) PERMIT: 10406/23

12646575-SM45-23

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Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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MAIL 33

HOME FOCUS

PRIVATE, PEACEFUL AND PERFECT THIS charming 3-bedroom brick veneer home is perfect for a family downsizing or first home buyer, and is situated on a quiet street in a family-friendly area close to all amenities, located just off Glenfern Road and is walking distance to the bus stop and only 2 km to the main street of Upwey which is incredibly convenient for commuting to work or schools, plus has easy access onto Wellington Road for those that need to commute to the city.

The home has a charming covered front deck where you can sit and enjoy your morning cuppa, inside features lovely timber floorboards, a new bathroom, 2 toilets, a new dishwasher, gas heating and a split system.

Step outside to discover a flat sunny backyard providing a peaceful place for relaxation or family activities as well as being safe for children and pets alike, add one small gate and the yard is fully fenced.

There is also a double carport and large storage shed and ample off-street parking.

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 38 Melaleuca Drive, UPWEY Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: $770,000 - $840,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Jan Brewster 0409 558 805, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL, 9754 6111 34 MAIL

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Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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Ranges SPACIOUS HOME WITH PADDOCK

BeLgRAve HeIgHTS 52 BARTLEy ROAD ReNTAL pROpeRTY wITH eNDLeSS pOSSIBILITIeS!

PRIVATE, PEACEFUL, PERFECT

$550 peR weeK 3A 1B 2C

Nestled in the picturesque enclave of Belgrave Heights, this delightful rental home on 1.2 acres of enchanting hillside terrain, offers an ideal blend of modern comfort and natural serenity. Featuring split systems in all bedrooms, freestanding robes, gas stove, breakfast window from kitchen to living/dining, newly painted and carpeted throughout, versatile workshop/garage/storage space and an optional paddock at no additional cost.

Conveniently situated to Belgrave South Township, reserves, schools & public transport.

Amy Carson 0455 891 116

We put you first

Mark Culley 0490 234 164

UpweY 38 MELALEUCA DRIVE SUNNY FLAT BACKYARD

$770,000 - $840,000 3A 1B 2C

This brick veneer home is perfect for downsizing or for the first-home buyer and is situated on a quiet street close to all amenities & walking distance to the bus stop. The home has a charming covered front deck, timber floorboards, new bathroom, 2 toilets, new dishwasher, gas heating & a split system. Step outside to discover a flat sunny backyard providing a peaceful place for relaxation and add one small gate and the yard is fully fenced. There is also a double carport, large storage shed and ample off-street parking.

Jan Brewster 0409 558 805

Ranges First National Sales department have sold 104 properties since spring last year.

5 Fairy Dell Road, Tecoma - SOLD, SETTLED THEN LISTED FOR LEASE WITH RANGES FN

Ranges First National Property Management department have listed and leased 51 properties since spring last year.

42 Benson Street, Belgrave - SOLD, SETTLED THEN LEASED WITHIN 24 HOURS WITH RANGES FN

9 Lynn Street, Sassafras. Received 4 offers, SOLD within 2 weeks at top of the range.

Considering the possibility of selling or leasing your property? Contact Ranges First National, your trusted local experts, at 9754 6111 for expert guidance and assistance in the real estate market.

9754 6111

rangesfn.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

‘We Put You First’

1660 Burwood Highway, Belgrave Shop 2/24 McBride St, Cockatoo Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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MAIL 35

HOME FOCUS

SPACIOUS FAMILY LIVING BEAUTIFULLY detailed throughout, 22 Viewline Drive sits proudly in a highly sought after area and offers exceptional family living.

With high ceilings, quality carpets and sleek floor tiles, this home boasts a welcoming floorplan that consists of four bedrooms, home office, two bathrooms and four exceptional living zones.

The main bedroom offers space and privacy plus his and hers robes and a resort style ensuite containing a double shower, bathtub and separate toilet. Stone benchtops have been superbly selected to show the expansive space that this modern kitchen offers whilst connecting easily with both the dining area and outdoor entertaining that includes a built-in barbecue for dinners with family and friends.

Gas ducted heating can be found throughout as well as evaporative cooling and split system heating/cooling for zoned temperature control.

For extended, secure parking, there is a triple garage with remote access plus roller door to rear of the property. This also connects with the home office allowing an ideal set up for work from home options.

A property that will tick all of your boxes when it comes to floorplan and family favourites, this home certainly has it all. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 22 Viewline Drive Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,250,000 - $1,350,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Glenn Chandler 0418 410 689 or Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 36 MAIL

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Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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P 5968 6222 311-313 Main Street Emerald

25 Currawong Drive, Gembrook

$845,000 - $895,000

100 Gembrook-Tonimbuk Road, Gembrook

$1,300,000 - $1,420,000

Mud Brick delight soaking in 19 acres of Gembrook nature!

Stylish Equine Property on approx. 5 acres!

This picturesque mud brick home features a cathedral ceiling lounge room with large wood fire & master bedroom in the loft! Downstairs there is a second master bedroom with a large WIR, & office/ second lounge area with a bathroom with bath & shower & separate toilet. The kitchen has a gas oven & wood fired stove. There is a fully fenced paddock perfect for a pony/goat. There is a double carport & a separate teenagers retreat/office building with toilet, shower, kitchenette, lounge area, laundry area, bedroom, two storage rooms & fenced yard. There is also a free standing room perfect as a craft room/office space. Featuring a 3 car lockable barn/workshop with power & concreted floors. This home is totally off grid, with a 9kW solar system & battery set up, supported by a generator.

There is approximately 55000L of tank water stored in three large water tanks, & a septic system.

The expansive 5 bedroom, 2 bathroom home has a formal loungeroom & a master bedroom with a large WIR & ensuite. Near the master bedroom is a further bedroom with ceiling fan & BIRs. The home has high ceilings, double glazed large windows, & reverse cycle AC. The central open plan kitchen/ dining/lounge area is flooded with natural light, & offers a wood fire heater, & kitchen with a large walk in pantry. The kitchen has a 900mm gas stove/oven, & SS appliances including dishwasher & Caesar stone benchtops. There is a laundry with it’s own external access, a study/office area, & then 3 further bedrooms, all with ceiling fans & BIRs. These bedrooms are serviced by the family bathroom & separate toilet. Externally the acreage is divided into 5 fully fenced paddocks. This home utilizes gas bottles, tank water, has 4kW solar with 18 solar panels, & mains electricity.

Samantha Scott M 0438 680 032

Aaron Day M 0407 365 994

3

74 Macclesfield Road, Monbulk

A

2

B 5 C

$1,700,000 - $1,850,000

Bethany Day M 0438 844 968

5

18 Heroes Avenue, Emerald

A

2

B

C

$750,000 - $820,000

Luxury Home With Pool & Spa on approx. 5 Fantastic Acres!

Location! View! Location! View!

This 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home features plenty of shedding, DLUG, a solar heated pool & spa, double glazed PVC windows, & a gently sloping cleared rear paddock. There’s a sitting room with wood fire, & an open plan kitchen/loungeroom/dining area with views to the pool & outdoor entertaining area. The kitchen is equipped with a 1100mm double gas oven (one fan forced, one conventional), & integrated dish washer. There is a covered outdoor entertaining area with built in BBQ & gas feature fire place. There is also a fully fitted out theatre room & a large rumpus room!

The master bedroom has a WIR, ceiling fan, & dual vanity ensuite. There is a study, then 3 further bedrooms with BIRs & ceiling fans, serviced by 2 family bathrooms! There is a 3 roller door shed with concreted floor & power, a shed in the partially fenced rear paddock, chicken coop, & fruit orchard.

This character filled 3 bedroom home on over 1/4 of an acre, (zoned for Subdivision STCA), is bursting with potential! The home is cosy and unique with stunning views across Emerald from the rear covered entertaining deck. With an all weather asphalt driveway that leads to a paved front entry, discover a home oozing with character. There is ducted gas heating throughout the home which features 3 bedrooms, a formal lounge and dining room and an open plan kitchen/meals/family room.

There is plenty of under house storage, along with the laundry and a 2nd bathroom, a double carport out front, a great storage shed/bungalow further down the garden, direct access to the walking tracks and a front row seat to watch Puffing Billy chugg by!

Aaron Day M 0407 365 994

Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451

Samantha Scott M 0438 680 032

4

A

3

B 6 C

3

A

2

B 2 C

bellrealestate.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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MAIL 37

HOME FOCUS

ARCHITECTURAL FLAIR WITH MAGICAL VIEWS PERFECTLY positioned on a beautifully landscaped, tiered block this architecturally inspired home takes in magical views across the Cotswold Valley and the skyline towards Port Phillip Bay and beyond. Spanning over a well-designed floorplan of three levels and boasting glorious windows that sneak a garden view from every room, there is much to love about this three bedroom plus wellequipped, built in study home.

There are two spacious lounge areas: The family room with gas log fireplace, built in shelving and warm carpets, the other, a sun filled sitting room that is perfect for a coffee and catch up with family. Gas ducted heating can be found throughout for quick heat control on all three levels of the home.

The central dining space boasts an outstanding backdrop of flat, green lawn and the picturesque views that make this property so special. Although original, the kitchen is in good condition and has a well sized pantry plus stainless steel appliances.

Privately positioned on the third level, the main bedroom provides substantial space along with an oversized walk in robe that could be used for an ensuite addition if desired (STCA). Multiple outdoor spaces to relax and enjoy the scenery include a large decking off the main bedroom, a front paved patio, rear courtyard and also the beautiful rolling green lawn that could host an amazing outdoor lunch with friends.

A sealed driveway, remote gates, double garage with workshop and sink plus great parking bay is all there for you to enjoy, just as these owners have done since building the home in 1993.

Surrounded by a much loved garden setting with pretty pathways, enchanting fish pond and in a highly desired location, this home is ready and waiting for its next family to love and adore it. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 81 Grantulla Road, MENZIES CREEK Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: $820,000 - $880,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442 or Jess Lainis 0493 544 981, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 38 MAIL

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Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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Real Estate you can trust!

We ’ r e h e r e t o h e l p FOR SALE

24 Johns Road, SELBY

$795,000 - $870,000 3A1B4C

THE PERFECT PROPERTY PACKAGE ON 1 ¾ ACRES

Overlooking a tranquil, tree top setting and boasting a generous and useable 1 ¾ acre (approx.) block, this family friendly, three bedroom home has been meticulously maintained and showcases an outstanding lifestyle opportunity for all. Whether you are searching for a family home, a tree change escape or a home that offers work life balance with easy commute to the city, this property has it all.

FOR SALE

57 The Crescent, BELGRAVE HEIGHTS

$1,200,000 to $1,300,000 4A2B4C

FAMILY HOME WITH GARAGE, WORKSHOP, AND SHED

This idyllic family home on a generous 1,435sqm (approx.) allotment offers a wonderful way into this premier position. Designed for a lifestyle of abundance within an easy stroll of Belgrave Heights Christian College and picturesque Birdsland Reserve, this is a forever family home.

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

Jess Lainis

Suzie Brannelly

M 0493 544 981 | E jess@chandlerandco.com.au

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

FOR SALE

8 Huon Road, BELGRAVE HEIGHTS

$770,000 - $840,000

INVESTMENT ON BEAUTIFUL 1,863SQM (APPROX.) BLOCK

3A2B2C

FOR SALE

16 Kia Ora Avenue, UPWEY

$900,000 - $970,000

ENTERTAINERS’ PARADISE WITH STUDIO STEPS FROM TOWN

4A2B2C

This unique residence offers a ticket into this top lifestyle location. Perfectly blending immediate liveability, options to update if you choose, and an outstanding 1,863sqm (approx.) corner allotment that provides abundant peace and privacy, there are endless ways this property can work for you.

This entertainers’ paradise situated on a level 1,037sqm (approx.) allotment only 600m from Upwey township is a rare offering in just the right location. Set upon a circular drive and surrounded by lush lawn areas, a freestanding studio and a double garage for convenience, space and versatility are offered in surplus here.

Brad Conder

Brad Conder

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

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

Daniel Steen

Daniel Steen

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

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

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

Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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MAIL 39

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services V Deadline

V Trades Business Profile

V Excavators

S&V RELIABLE EARTHWORKS

Placing your classified advert is so easy...

Phone: 1300 666 808

Grow your business with

Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...

HANDYMAN SERVICES

12493755-SN19-21

From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network Classifieds has been connecting local businesses with the local community with our Trades and Services each week.

Speak to our classified team and find out how easy it is to advertise. Start building your brand today and be seen every week in Network Classifieds Trades and Services.

30 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE

FULLY INSURED

12499475-CG25-21

DIN TREE SERVICE WA•N TREES PRUNED, LOPPED, FELLED

V Air Conditioning

AND REMOVED

Be cool this summer

• WOODCHIPPING AND STUMPGRINDING • QUALIFIED ARBORIST FREE • PROMPT RELIABLE SERVICE

• Brivis Evaporative Cooling • Daikin & Rinnai Splits • Pensioner discounts • Evap & Split Service Specials

QUOTES

• Trade Qualified • For All Your Home Maintenance Repairs • No Job Too Small

Call Dario 0424 313 052

“Wandin Tree Service has been using community classifieds for the past 20 years. The Trade Directory adverts allows us to focus on specific local areas to provide a prompt, value for money service at affordable DGYHUWLVLQJ UDWHV ´ ă -LP

V Plumbing

FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS. Plumbing & Gas Fitting, Excavator Hire, Water Renewals, Metal Roof & Gutters, Hot Water Unit Repair & Replacement, All Sanitary & Stormwater Drainage, Septic, Sewer & Treatment Plants, Pumps & Rain Water Tanks.

Richard - 0419 502 949 Simon - 0417 399 750

• EXCELLENT RATES

0473 326 333

12619623-ET28-23

0488 816 557

-Your Local Concreter- Call Mick • Shed & Garage - SLABS • Driveways • Site Cuts & Excavations

5968 8493

0408 050 938

melbourne.asphalt@bigpond.com

Buy, Rent & Sell in our

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฀

Alan 5968 5191 Mob 0418 176 159

Employment V Roofing

LOCAL ELECTRICIAN

section of Network Classifieds.

C1039154-JM27-12

฀

section of Network Classifieds.

V Electricians

ALL JOBS BIG AND SMALL

V Asphalting

0458 798 445 REC 22362

V Carpenters

• RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL DRIVEWAY WASHED OUT?

CARPENTER

REPLACE IT WITH ASPHALT! IT WON’T HAPPEN AGAIN!

Call Joseph - 0420 422 263

Daniel Brown Mobile: 0409 395 635 Email: daniel@topcatdriveways.com.au Visit our website at: www.topcatdriveways.com.au

฀

Lic No. 29938

0418 327 737 EST. 1987 All work guaranteed

Lic 106275

฀

12562316-SN32-22

J.L. Hutt Electrical ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀

24 HOUR SERVICE ฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀

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Jason 1300 644 698

Solar Skylights Skylight resealing Pensioner discount

Leak detection & repair Rebeding & Pointing High Pressure cleaning

12570815-AV40-22

V Antennas

฀

฀ ฀

General Plumbing Gas Fitting Hot & Cold Water Roof & Spouting Pumps & Tanks Farm Water Boring & Trenching Sewerage Connections Septics & Sand Filters 12631140-AI36-23

section of Network Classifieds.

FAST FRIENDLY EFFICIENT Phone 7am-8pm | installmyantenna.com.au

฀

PLUMBING CONTRACTORS

12616494-RR27-23

General Classifieds

• 40 Years Family FR Owned & Operated QUO EE TES • 25 Year Warranty • Senior/Pensioner Discount #1 in FERNTREE GULLY

V Concrete Products & Services • Driveways • Car Parks • Pathways, Tennis Courts, Draining, School Yards, Machine or Hand Laid Asphalt Repairs • Commercial & Domestic • Free Quotes • Timber & Brick Edging

SAME DAY TV ANTENNA SERVICE

฀ ฀ ฀

A.G & E. WILLIAMS

V Asphalting

12438941-CG04-20

www.fairbairns.com.au

฀ ฀ ฀

12506651-DL32-21

12518757-DL44-21

12522612-JW47-21

9870 7059

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

12424506-ACM33-19

Call 1300 666 808

REC 17042 PIC 38148 AU 06212

12589663-JW07-23

(1.5% credit card processing fee applies.)

Deadline for all classifications is 4pm Friday.

V Handy Persons

TRADES & SERVICES

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS/BANK TRANSFER

C1024520-KG18-12

We accept payment by:

Phone Steve Ph: 5968 2508 Mobile: 0417 723 745

1170652-HM05-15

(include your name, address and phone number)

Call Chris 0412 099 142 24 years in roofing leaks

The Re-Roof Man All types of Roofs ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀ ฀

฀ ฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀

Paul 0418 570 231 Lic. 25035

12402861-RA44-18

Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

1003429-PJ6-12

• Excavator 5 Tonne and 15 Tonne • Bobcat Hire • Tip Truck Hire • All Types of Excavation Work • Holes Augered • Site Cuts • Driveways • Blocks Levelled and Shaped • Retaining Walls • Trenching • Free Quotes • No Jobs Too Big or Too Small

paulnobes@live.com.au

12454729-SG29-20

40 MAIL

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Trades & Services

General Classifieds

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Employment

V Garage Sales

HAVING A CLEAN UP OR DECLUTTERING YOUR HOME?

DRESS

STREET AD

Advertise your GARAGE SALE here

$

CALL 1300 666 808

6cm (H) x 3cm (W)

Local professionals in our

Trades & Services

Network Classifieds!

Are you a persuasive communicator with a passion for sales? Are you looking for a flexible, casual, or part-time role that allows you to showcase your skills and earn some extra income? Look no further!

Network Classifieds, a leading online and print classified advertising platform serving multiple mastheads across Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, and NT, is seeking enthusiastic Telephone Sales Representatives to join our dynamic team.

About Network Classifieds Network Classifieds is at the forefront of connecting buyers and sellers across multiple regions in Australia.

With a strong online and print presence, we help communities find the perfect deals, services, and opportunities. As a Telephone Sales Representative, you'll play a crucial role in driving our sales efforts and expanding our network.

What You'll Do • Engage with potential customers over the phone to promote our advertising solutions.

• Build and maintain strong customer relationships.

• Understand customer needs and provide tailored advertising solutions.

• Meet and exceed sales targets and performance goals.

• Collaborate with a motivated and supportive team.

Requirements • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Confidence in making outbound sales calls.

• Motivated, goal-oriented, and results-driven.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Previous sales or customer service experience is a plus, but not required.

How to Apply If you're ready to take on this exciting role with the flexibility you desire, we want to hear from you! Please send your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant skills and why you're interested in joining Network Classifieds as a Telephone Sales Representative to Sue Hall, Classified Advertising Manager, at sales@networkclassifieds.com.au.

Join us in helping our diverse communities connect, buy, and sell through effective advertising solutions.

Be a part of the Network Classifieds team and make a difference in the world of classifieds!

or email sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

section of Network Classifieds.

V Tree Lopping/Surgery

ADVERTISERS in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.

BELGRAVE TREE SERVICES

Find it in the

9754 6686

Professional Services 12627789-RR33-23

• DANGEROUS TREE • WOOD SPLITTING • LIMB REMOVAL • MULCHING FULLY INSURED ABN 40712971557

Call Darren on 0404 040 686

section of Network Classifieds.

V Pets & Services

Motoring

12543759-AI14-22

section of Network Classifieds.

Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number.

It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice.

For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

CALL US ON 0458 735 250

section of Network Classifieds.

Employment

DAWSONS

Real Estate

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

12423634-SN31-19

V Massage Therapists

Employment V Professional

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

V Positions Vacant

TREE SERVICES

• No Fuss • No Mess • No Stress

☎ 9720 5111

FULLY INSURED

30 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE

• TREES PRUNED, LOPPED, FELLED AND REMOVED • WOODCHIPPING AND STUMPGRINDING • QUALIFIED ARBORIST FREE • PROMPT RELIABLE SERVICE QUOTES • EXCELLENT RATES

12499475-CG25-21

DIN TREE SERVICE WAN

0473 326 333 V Upholsterers

Specialising in Antique Restoration Recovery & Repairs to all types of furniture FREE FABRIC PROTECTION *FREE QUOTE, PICK UP & DELIVERY Luke Wilson Mob: 0402 020 554 Ph: 03 5964 2166 12378576-DJ07-18

Mountain Views Star Mail

Ranges Trader Star Mail

FUNDRAISING MANAGER

12644901-MS44-23

General Classifieds section of Network Classifieds.

ABOUT US Since 2003, the Cardinia Foundation has been fundraising and supporting local communities.

Between 2013 and 2022, they partnered with the City of Casey and delivered incredible work together. As we return to our grassroots at the Cardinia Foundation, it’s time for us to step up and do our part, making it easy for locals to help locals and build on the solid foundation created by almost 20 years of hard work. Now, as we’re looking ahead to the next 20 years, we are filled with enthusiasm for the future of Cardinia. The board has set a new direction and Cardinia Shire Council has provided financial support to grow the foundation over the next 5 years.

Motoring V Caravans & Trailers

ABOUT THE ROLE Our fundraising strategy to raise funds focuses on bequests, donor and corporate giving and workplace giving. The Fundraising and Partnership Manager will work strategically with businesses, local, state and federal government, philanthropic organisations, and community leaders to realise investment through effective and sustainable public-private partnerships and individual and corporate giving programmes. This strongly public-facing, highly influential role is focused on delivering tangible financial and community outcomes in ways that build a strong, healthy and diverse community and resilient environment within Cardinia Shire.

RESPONSIBILITIES We are seeking a committed and driven individual with excellent interpersonal and communication skills, especially in building and maintaining positive relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders.

You will be responsible for generating revenue through growing and brokering relationships, partnerships and outcomes needed to enable the financial growth of the Cardinia Foundation and sustainable contributions to the Cardinia Shire community.

To apply please email your resume and cover letter to: admin@cardiniafoundation.org

CARAVAN Avan pop top 2011, single beds, excellent condition, $21,500 phone 0458 888 725 or 0409 331 545 V Motor Vehicles

12643890-ET43-23

• LARGE TREE SPECIALISTS • HEDGE TRIMMING EXPERTS • STUMP GRINDING • MULCH AVAILABLE • CONSULTING ARBORIST

12496966-LB23-21

$20 MILLION INSURANCE

Only 33.00

Join Our Team as a Casual or Part-Time Telephone Sales Representative at

12644936-SM44-23

SUBURB

12382862-RA13-18

Specialist in Gutter Cleaning / i`ÊÀ vÊÀi«> ÀÃÊEÊ i> ÃÊUÊ,i i`ÊEÊ* ÌÊ vÊ, và 25 Yrs Experience Call Matt for a free quote

V Positions Vacant

MITSUBISHI Lancer 2009 VR sportsback. 2 ltr engine. 5 speed manual.

New battery. Central locking. Cruise control. Lightning blue. 95,000 kms. nvgc. RWC supplied.

XKM 746 $9950 negotiable. Call 5919 2019

Buy & Sell in the

Motoring section of Network Classifieds.

ADVERTISE UNTIL SOLD*

$

29 .00

• All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication.

• After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear.

• The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the PRICE of your item.

• Business advertisements, rental hire, pets & livestock and real estate are not included in the offer.

• The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain.

Lilydale Star Mail Run my advert in: 2 papers - $7 extra 3 papers - $14 extra

ADD A PHOTO FOR AN ADDITIONAL $8.00.

12593773-FC11-23

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Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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SPORT

Yarra Ranges young athletes among the Vic medals

By Jamie Strudley Weekend two of the Victorian All Schools Track and Field Championships were held at a warm, windy Lakeside Stadium on the weekend.

Spread over two weekends, weekend one saw eight Yarra Ranges Athletics athletes enjoy the sunny conditions to put in some outstanding performances. Weekend two had nine athletes competing, bringing home five more medals.

Brigette Rice followed up her silver medal from weekend one with a dominant run in the U17 3000m, running 10.11.21 to win her race.

Sarah Ebbels narrowly missed her club record when winning the U20 Hammer Throw with a massive 35.76m effort.

Ash Rooke added a 200m bronze to her two silvers from last weekend, running a blistering 27.20 seconds for the half lap race.

Zoe Clarke showed an excellent turn of speed over the closing stages of her U15 800m to win bronze with a time of 2.26.06.

Bradley McMeeken won his third medal of the championships with a PB 3.19.29 effort in the U17 Para 800m.

Club member results from weekend 2 are: 200m Emily Fielder U14 7th 28.14, Bradley McMeeken U17 Para 4th 38.91,Ash Rooke U20 3rd 27.20 800m Ryder Holland U14 9th 2.22.79, Zoe Clarke U15 3rd 2.26.06, Mitch Pointon U15 19th 2.16.43, Kristina Nackovski U16 4th 2.36.00, Bradley McMeeken U17 3rd 3.19.29 3000m Brigette Rice U17 1st 10.11.21 Hammer Throw Sarah Ebbels U20 1st 35.76m A twilight round for this week’s Little Athletics competition saw an amazing turnout

Cody is all smiles as he reaches the finish line.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

of athletes. Some outstanding results under the Morrison Reserve lights including a new 200m Hurdles record to Brookly H. We also welcomed club life member, Rob Belli, to his first round of competition for the season, great to see Rob back doing what he loves most.

Normal competition returns next week with action kicking off from 8am followed by our club hosting round 4 of the AVSL season

from 1pm.

Training for our six-12yo continues on Tuesdays from 4.00pm. Seniors training (13yo plus) is on Tuesday and Thursday from 5.30pm at Morrison Reserve. Check the socials and website for more details and sessions available with our throws and jumps coaches.

Yarra Ranges Athletics welcomes and encourages all athletes of any age or ability.

If you, or someone you know, wants to

Ashlyn breezes through in her race. join in the fun of track and field registration is now open. Go to lavic.com.au or athsvic.org. au or 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. Run, Jump, Throw…too easy!

Hills sport clubs rewarded

By Tyler Wright Dandenong Ranges sporting clubs have been rewarded for their efforts in campaigning to eliminate road trauma in their communities.

Recipients of the Transport Accident Commission’s Club Rewards program include Belgrave Football Netball Club, the Ferntree Gully Eagles Junior Football Netball Club, the Monbulk Football Netball Club, the South Belgrave Football Netball Club and the Upwey-Tecoma Football Netball Club - which received $6,800 through this year’s program.

Upwey-Tecoma Football Netball Club secretary Alexandria Bantock said the club approached the TAC rewards program with the focus being for the community to create and deliver the message of the dangers of distracted driving - the theme of this year’s campaign.

“We have incorporated TAC in our sponsor revolving display running on TV screens in the rooms on Thursday nights and match days, creating exposure to in excess of 120 people every Thursday training night and over 300 people on game days,” Ms Bantock said.

“In the same way, we have included TAC as one of our sponsors on our electronic scoreboard, with messages shown at each break in play on game days from our under 19’s Reserves, Seniors and Women’s teams.

“There are 16 breaks in play during which time the add generally displays for seven seconds every 90 seconds, making a total display of around 75 times.”

With submissions from all player groups, coaches, sponsors, spectators and volunteer staff, the club created its own messaging over a five-week period in the lead up Road Safety Round in July.

The club’s social media included images of submitters with loved ones; whether that be children or pets - representing their reason to drive safely and arrive home alive in the lead up to the Road Safety Round.

Ms Bantock said the club also promoted free non-alcoholic beverages for every designated driver and made its own promotional posters for the venue.

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Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

Upwey-Tecoma Football Netball Club’s ‘Reason to Arrive Alive’ wall.

Picture: SUPPLIED “We made a wall of photos at the exit of the clubrooms as a way of reminding each member of our community as to why they need to drive safely - this included 60 plus images,” she said.

“This is a wall that we are going to continue to add to for the remainder of the year, beyond the rewards programs.”

The Belgrave Football Netball Club received $1,800 through the program.

Club secretary Melissa Davey said the club

has made a commitment to address and improve road safety for a number of years.

“The committee regularly reviews our alcohol and transport policies and we endeavour to create a supportive club environment where everyone gets home safely,” Ms Davey said.

“We have run TAC road safety sessions with the playing group as well as participating in the TAC road safety awareness road as a part of a league-wide initiative.

“BFNC have also run a yearly bus trip to encourage social participation while also ensuring players and staff aren’t fatigued for a long trip home after a game.”

Ms Davey said the club will “continue to support and promote” TAC messages, particularly around the distracted driving theme being promoted as this year’s focus.

“This will include participation in the road safety round and continuing to support or players, staff and members by providing a safe club environment that promotes responsible decision-making around alcohol, distractions and driving,” Ms Davey said.

“During the 2022 and 2023 seasons we have run a local “Emergency Services Round” where we have invited local emergency services including Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria and CFA. “For next year’s event, we will be looking to tie in some of the TAC road safety messages into this event also.”

Delivered in partnership with AFL Victoria, 251 clubs will receive rewards of up to $10,000 through the program, which encourages clubs to engage with players, members and their communities on key road safety issues and promote safe behaviours.

244 people have died on Victorian roads this year, according to TAC data - up 16.7 per cent from last year.

More than half of those deaths have happened in regional areas, where tens of thousands of local footballers and netballers travel for games and training.

Distracted driving is one of the major causes of fatal and serious injury crashes on

Victoria’s roads and is particularly concerning on regional roads where people are travelling at higher speeds.

AFL Victoria-affiliated clubs from across the state were able to apply for the program by showing how they supported road safety throughout the year, including taking part in the TAC’s Road Safety Round ‘Band Together’ campaign.

Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino said she is thrilled to see the area’s football and netball clubs taking a strong stand against road trauma.

“This support from the Allan Labor Government will ensure they can continue their commitment to road safety in the 2024 season,” Ms De Martino said.

Transport Accident Commission CEO, Tracey Slatter, said road trauma has a “significant ripple effect” and there is no denying the power of peer-to-peer support and education at sporting club level.

“These clubs should be proud of their efforts to create a culture that prioritises road safety,” Ms Slatter said.

AFL VIC Community Football Manager, John O’Donohue, said the TAC Club Rewards Program is one of the biggest and most important programs impacting community football, promoting the “importance of road safety and supporting local clubs and their communities.”.

Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Melissa Horne, said Victoria’s grassroots football and netball clubs are influential in their communities, so it is “wonderful to be able incentivise them to roll out critical initiatives that promote safer driving”.

The TAC Club Rewards Program is part of the TAC’s 31-year partnership with AFL Victoria, which aims to empower clubs to develop a culture where all players and members are expected to be safe on the roads.

More information and a full list of 2023 TAC Club Rewards program recipients can be found at tac.vic.gov.au/about-the-tac/community/grants/tac-club-rewards-program mailcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Monbulk loses top spot

By Jack Rollings The third round of bowls Saturday pennant saw cloudy skies, slight gusty winds and, for the first time this season, jumpers-off temperatures. The ladders are taking shape and some teams can already see a lot of work ahead if they are to play finals this season.

Monbulk 1 played at home against Mooroolbark 1. The two top sides, both undefeated so far, were looking forward to a highlevel matchup. And, for most of the afternoon, that’s how the composite scoreboard recorded it – close, change of lead, repeat close, change of lead. Then, towards the end of the day Mooroolbark picked up some multiples on a couple of rinks and drew away.

Jim Bras’ team started strongly and was up by five shots after the fifth end. Then they dropped a bad six shot clanger to give Mooroolbark the lead. They were able to reclaim the lead on the next end and build a three shot margin. Then Mooroolbark grabbed a three shotter on the 12th end to level the scores. After that, Monbulk dominated and went on to win thirteen of the 21 ends. Monbulk won the rink 24 shots to 16.

Brian Smith’s team trailed early in the match, then put on eight shots in four ends, to take the lead by three shots. The very next end Mooroolbark won a three and then another three. In the race home, it was Moorooolbark who controlled the game, taking several big multiples and putting a lot of pressure on the composite score. Monbulk lost the rink 13 shots to 30.

Eric Markham’s team won 11 ends to 10 and was looking set to have a close match.

But around the middle of the afternoon they dropped two three shot clangers. They were 10

Anne Ward.

Picture: SUPPLIED

shots down going into the back half, and even though they dropped only two minor scores from then on, their wins were also small, and they couldn’t quite bridge the gap. Monbulk lost the rink 16 shots to 17.

Tony French’s team had a close match for most of the day. Scores were level a few times, and with just five ends to play, they were 16 shots all. Then Mooroolbark bagged a few ends in a row, including a four shotter, and, with the finish line in sight, they clung to their lead.

Monbulk lost the rink 17 shots to 25.

Overall Monbulk 70 lost to Mooroolbark 88, with one Monbulk winning rink. It was a blow for Monbulk to lose on their home ground, but it was a loss to a very strong side and hopefully it will give the Monbulk side more determination to put in the practice hours to produce that next level of bowling. Monbulk has now dropped from first place down to fourth place on the ladder. Next week Monbulk plays Boronia 1 at Monbulk. Boronia are sitting just below on the ladder, with the same win/loss ratio, so it should be an exciting matchup and a crucial one for Monbulk’s finals chances.

Monbulk 2 played at Cockatoo against some of the same bowlers they were combined with

last season. This season they are rivals. Going into today, Cockatoo were on top of the ladder, while Monbulk was seventh. The Cockatoo bowling green is a well-maintained synthetic surface that most of the Monbulk players are familiar with, so no surprises there.

Barry Adshead was persuaded to come back to play pennant and skip this weekend and it certainly paid off. After the first few ends, where the scores see-sawed, Barry’s team took control at the halfway mark, winning 14 shots over four ends. They dropped only three ends in the back half, all for minor scores, and finished with an emphatic five shotter on the last end. Monbulk won the rink 35 shots to 12.

Graeme Goller’s team followed a similar path. A close front half, with scores level after the ninth end. Then, in the back half, Monbulk only gave the mat away on three occasions, for minor scores. They also picked up a five and a massive six shotter. Monbulk won the rink 27 shots to 14.

Peter Lee’s team won nine ends and mostly had a close tussle. If it hadn’t been for two disastrous ends early in the afternoon, where they dropped a four then a six, they would have been in the hunt. They picked up a strong three shotter on the second last end but couldn’t get close to making up the deficit.

Monbulk lost the rink 14 shots to 26.

Marg O’Brien’s team started slowly and was down one to 14 going into the ninth end.

Then they put in some strong ends to almost draw level by the 16th end. In the race home it was Cockatoo who managed to keep the mat and even take a four shotter, to end Monbulk’s journey. Monbulk lost the rink 15 shots to 22.

Overall Monbulk won the round 91 shots to 74, with two winning rinks. Monbulk is still seventh on the ladder, but they have knocked

off the top side and that win will certainly give them energy for the next few matches. Next week they play bottom of the ladder, Heatherdale. It is an away game and the Heatherdale grass will be a lot slower than what the Monbulk bowlers usually play on. But the Monbulk bowlers will be looking to build on this week’s fabulous win.

Monbulk 3 played away against Healesville 2. On paper it promised to be a good close competition, with both sides having strong wins in the previous round. But, on the day it was Healesville who were able to defend their home ground.

Graeme Godkin’s team had a close front half but gave away three clangers in the middle of the game to trail by eight shots after the sixteenth end. Then, with a string of five wins to the finish, they were able to draw level and finish the day at 19 shots all.

Allan Brooke’s team struggled against a strong Healesville team. Monbulk won only six ends, but they did manage to keep the losses contained to minor scores, until the last end when Healesville stamped their authority with a four shotter. Monbulk lost the rink seven shots to 26.

Mike Harris’ rink was a game of momentums. Healesville won the first three ends, then Monbulk won seven ends in a row, to lead by seven shots. Then, in the run home, Healesville won six ends in a row to retake the lead and push on to the finish. Monbulk lost the rink 14 shots to 20.

Overall Monbulk lost the round 40 shots to 65, gaining one ladder point for the drawn rink. They have dropped to fourth on the ladder. Next week will be a challenging test when they travel over to Mitcham to play the top side. This would be a very good game to win.

Tigers snap losing streak with commanding win

By Sean Talbot The two-time reigning premier Upwey Ferntree Gully Tigers snapped a three game losing streak at Kings Park in Upper Ferntree Gully on Sunday 5 November, putting a visiting Geelong team to the sword and running out eventual 8-2 winners. It looked like the Tigers of old right from the first inning, as base hits combined with aggressive baserunning and sloppy Geelong defense lead to two runs crossing the plate and the first time the Tigers have held a lead in any inning since their round one mercy rule win over Melbourne, also at home.

Outstanding right from the word go, staff ace Jarrod Rogers was at the peak of his powers as he utilised a four pitch mix combined with brilliant command and a lively fastball that kept the visitors off balance and never allowed them to get comfortable. Working quickly as he does when he is at his best, Turner had a lightning fast one-two-three second inning that saw him need only seven pitches to retire the side, all of them strikes.

“I felt really good today. The boys backed me up with the sticks which was amazing, and we scored runs early which gave us momentum in the field as well,” Turner said in his post-game comments with Sean Talbot.

Continuing to refuse to let the Geelong hitters get settled, Turner continued to attack the zone, again putting up quick scoreless innings in the third and fourth as the usually potent Geelong line-up was placed in the proverbial rocking chair by one of the leagues best pitchers.

Breaking out for four runs through a combination of safe hitting, team centered at-bats and more Geelong errors, the Tigers put the game out of reach in the fourth inning, plating four runs to take a six to zero lead, giving Turner all the run support he would need and more, putting the screws to Geelong who had no answers to the mix of veterans and budding superstars, with all nine players either recording hits or using their at-bats to advance runners. Leading the way on offense for the Tigers was young gun Jack Ratcliffe, who went five-for-five from the leadoff spot and truly set the tone for the Tigers throughout the afternoon.

“I felt pretty good, I was just looking for mailcommunity.com.au

my pitch, and when I got that pitch I was looking to do damage. To back up Jarrod is always good, and was great to come away with a win,” Ratcliffe told Talbot post-game.

Turner was relentless for his part in twirling an absolute gem, going seven scoreless innings whilst only surrendering three hits, handing the ball to veteran left-hander Wes de Jong who threw a scoreless eighth inning, giving the Tigers a chance to invoke the 10-run mercy rule, however they could not capitalize and left two runners on. After making some offensive changes in the top of the ninth and sending some of their own young charges to the plate for an at-bat once the game was all done but the shouting. To their credit, the Baycats plated a pair to get on the board, however it was too little, too late as de Jong slammed the door shut on a commanding eight to two win to get the reigning premiers back in the win column and improving to two to three, jumping into a seven-way tie for seventh place with Doncaster, Port Melbourne, Fitzroy, Williamstown, Newport and Blackburn.

In the curtain-raiser, it was first versus second as both sides came in undefeated sporting perfect four to zero records. Starting on short notice, Tristan Mealey took the ball for the Tigers, who would themselves in unfamiliar territory as the young Baycats team jumped them for four runs in the top of the first on a combination of safe hitting, defensive miscues and a few lucky bounces that all seemed to go the way of the boys from the bay. To their credit, the Tigers were not going to go down without a fight, plating one in the first while going to work on holding Geelong scoreless in the second and third innings, whilst creating three runs themselves as the line-up of veterans patiently allowed Geelong’s starter to run into trouble as he struggled to consistently find the strike zone.

Mealey gave way to Sean Meldrum after four, who was again jumped by Geelong who pushed a single run across in the fifth inning, before Meldrum settled into his work, throwing a scoreless sixth inning to give the home side their last chance to steal the win in front of the home crowd. As they have done all season, the Tigers created opportunities for themselves, putting pressure on Geelong’s defense to score a game-winning three runs to take a seven to six lead into the last inning,

with Meldrum slamming the door shut to seal the win.

“It was really good. We had a bit of a slow start, but the boys battled away, and this is the first time we’ve been pushed a little bit, being in an unfamiliar situation of having to come back, but it was good to find it here today and we went from there,” Meldrum told Talbot post-game.

“Ash (Geary-Smith, catcher) did a great job, with a couple of key blocks late in the game and kept us going as we look forward to next week and hope to improve to 6-0”. As mentioned, the win sees Upwey maintain top spot with a perfect five to zero record, with Geelong falling to third behind Essendon.

Travelling down the freeway to Geelong on Saturday, the thirds came up short against top-of-the-ladder Geelong eight to five, though having their chances to steal the win but unable to capitalise. Geelong to their credit have been an offensive force early in the season, being far and away the leagues strongest squad while also winning multiple premierships within the last five years. The result sees the Tigers record their first loss of the season as they now share equal fifth with Blackburn sporting a 3-1-1 record, while Geelong improve to 5-0 and remain in first.

It was a happy trip home for the fourths however, as they scored early and often against a developing Geelong squad, eventually running out eight to zero winners. Coach Richard Ferguson was fantastic on the mound, leading the way and giving his team every chance they would need, as they continued to show why they are the team to beat whilst showing the depth of the Tigers, continuing their perfect start to the season and sitting equal 1st with Essendon at five to zero.

In a game they would probably prefer to quickly move on from, the Region Metro East 5ths travelled to Napier Park to take on Waverley, and were comprehensively outplayed, taking an 18 to four drubbing on the chin against an impressive line-up that has a reputation for scoring freely against all comers. To their credit, the Tigers kept applying pressure, however the experience of the boys in red was too much to handle. The loss sees the Tigers fall back under .500 to 2-3 in a three-way tie for sixth with Research Gold and Monash Uni. It was a different story at home on Sun-

day for the Metro League South sixths, who jumped the visiting Malvern squad early and never let them back into the game, taking out a 17 to five mercy-rule win on the Kings Park back field, no doubt showing that last weeks unfortunate forfeit v Springvale was just what the doctor ordered to light the fire and set them in motion for what is surely a sign of things to come. The win sees the Tigers jump back above .500 to 3-2, sitting clear in third place behind Springvale (5-0) and Bonbeach (4-1).

In the Lady Tigers game, the girls jumped a visiting Moorabbin team in the first, overcoming an early 1-0 deficit to plate multiple runs in the first four innings while settling in behind a strong start from young ace Chelsea Mosbey who was outstanding with her command, weaving in and out of trouble before handing the ball over to Billie McCulloch, who ensured the didn’t let the pressure of a tightening ballgame get to her, throwing the final two 1/3 innings to seal a great team win. Finding herself in a 2-on, 0-out situation in the second inning, Mosbey forced a groundball to McCulloch off the Moorabbin bat, starting what would turn into an inningending 6-4-3-2 triple play, certainly something that is rarely seen at any level of baseball, but certainly a feat that was more than a welcome sight.

“I felt pretty good. At some points the ball wasn’t going where I wanted it to, but enough went where I wanted them, and I was really happy with how the all the girls handled it.

They (Tigers) were great in the field and I think the energy was great, staying boosted through the game which only picked up once we turned our inning-ending triple play in the 2nd inning,” Mosbey said after the game.

The Lady Tigers also improve to 5-0 to start the season to sit atop the Womens Metro South ladder, tied with Chelsea who have taken the league by storm and also sit 5-0.

The Lady Tigers are back on the road this coming week, travelling to Kingston Heath Reserve to take on fifth place Cheltenham, while the Men’s firsts and seconds will be on the road to Sandringham in what is a mustwin game for both clubs in the late game. The Upwey thirds and fourths will in-turn host Sandringham, while the fifths host Waverley Black and the sixths travel to Moorabbin.

Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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