Mail - Upper Yarra Star Mail - 21st November 2023

Upper Yarra

Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

Mail

End of tenure for Yarra Glen RSL president

Musical summer nights for Warburton

A hearing dog more than a life companion

See Real Estate liftout inside

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A Star News Group Publication

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Star on skates

By Callum Ludwig

A stellar save from Launching Place’s Makayla Peers while in action for Melbourne Ice.

Picture: PHIL TAYLOR

A budding ice hockey star hailing from Launching Place is aiming for the top and wants to see the path made easier for others to join her.

Makayla Peers is the goalie for the Melbourne Ice in the Australian Women’s Ice Hockey League, having won last season’s Best Goaltender award and the championship title aged only 18.

Peers is balancing university studies and two part-time jobs as ice hockey is a pay-to-play sport, even at the state level, for women and said it is challenging at times.

“The men don’t get paid to play, but they don’t have to pay to travel. Unfortunately, when it comes to the women’s, we don’t fill the rink the same just yet,“ she said. “This year... for myself and the rest of my team we had to pay $3500 if we wanted to compete, so we’re trying to bring in more crowds and sponsors, but unfortunately it’s a work in progress which just takes time, hopefully, ... we don’t have to pay as much to play as what we do love.”

Story page 34

Sad permit saga

By Dongyun Kwon and Callum Ludwig

protracted illness as well,” she said.

“When the community recognised the 10year anniversary of Black Saturday, there was much reflection on the fact that most people had moved on with their lives. I found it hard that I was still stuck in the morass of rebuilding with no clear pathway to resolution.”

Robyn rebuilt a house with a detached

building for her son, who at the time required the dialysis machine installed in the building for up to seven hours every second day, and thought she had the correct building permit.

The Ombudsman detailed the saga in her report which was tabled in State Parliament.

Continued page 3

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The case of a 72-year-old widow in the Yarra Ranges, who has been frustrated and disappointed with a lack of communication two local councils, is an important reminder of the need for good complaint handling, according to the Victorian Ombudsman Deborah Glass.

Yarra Ranges resident ’Robyn’ said the last six years were mentally and emotionally exhausting to go through stress and pressure on top of the experience of losing friends and neighbours and her own house.

“I lost my 27-year home at the time of Black Saturday and the rebuilding of my house has not been easy. I lost my husband due to his

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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NEWS

IN BRIEF Driver dies in Glenburn collision

Sad permit saga From page 1 Her builder applied for the building permit on 3 July 2014 to build a shed, not a habitable space, and to the Mitchell Shire Council which was not Robyn’s local council, believing it would be ’faster’. The Ombudsman’s report noted that, “Particularly in response to natural disasters like the Black Saturday bushfires, Municipal Building Surveyors can help other councils by issuled building permit, to ensure a faster rebuild“.

Recognising the problems this process can cause, changes to the Building Act were implemented in September 2016 to prohibit builders from appointing Building Surveyors on an owner’s behalf.

To make things worse, the Mitchell Shire Council sent a copy of the permit to the wrong person with the wrong address and the Ombudsman’s Report says “Council records demonstrate that Robyn also never received a copy of the Building Permit from the Council“.

The Ombudsman also made it clear that her report made “no adverse comment about the Municipal Building Surveyor who issued the building permit as the building permit issued was consistent with the application“.

Robyn did not notice that she did not have a right building permit until 2017 when Yarra Ranges Council issued a building order requiring Robyn to address health and safety concerns before continuing to use it as a habitable building.

Robyn required at least nine extensions to give her time to understand and address Yarra Ranges Council’s concerns before the building order was withdrawn. Under Yarra Ranges Council’s policies, Robyn was required to reapply for extensions every 60 days, deemed ’oppressive’ by the Ombudsman.

In June 2014, a rebuild consent letter from Yarra Ranges Council was issued to Robyn which stated that she could rebuild a ‘carport, shed and studio (outbuilding)’ exempt from the usual planning process, but did not outline what class of building was allowed. Robyn believed the word ‘studio’ meant a ’class 1a habitable building’ while it may also mean a ’class 10a non-habitable building’ to someone in the building industry.

Previously Robyn had a habitable outbuilding which was lost in the fires and reasonably believed she would be allowed to rebuild that.

Robyn said the habitable studio was vital for her and her son.

“The hospital installed the dialysis machine in the studio allowing my son to manage his dialysis sessions so that he can work full time and live his life with autonomy. It also allowed me to be around in a supportive capacity and gave me the comfort of making sure my son was fed and safe whilst on the machine,” she said.

Mitchell Shire chief executive officer Brett Luxford said the Mitchell Shire Council understood the concerns and frustrations of the landowner and empathised with the stress the situation has caused her and her family.

“In August 2014, our Municipal Building Surveyor, acting within legal guidelines, issued the building permit as per the application re-

A building permit has caused a battle with bureaucracy for a Yarra Ranges resident.

Picture: UNSPLASH ceived from the builder,” he said.

“We recognise, however, the building owner may not have been adequately informed about this permit and our written communication wasn’t as clear as it could have been.“ “We sincerely apologise to the landowner for the confusion and extra stress this has caused.“ What made Robyn more disappointed was the uncertainty of the solution and the dragged process.

“I am very disappointed that despite months of investigation, negotiation and my active cooperation providing them with all compliance documents, Planning Consents, septic approvals etc, the issue is not fully resolved,” Robyn said.

“This has been made very difficult, in my view, partly because of changing and sometimes conflicting demands by councils and their continued failure to acknowledge mistakes such as Mitchell Shire having the wrong name and address on the Building Permit,“ “However, I am hugely relieved that Yarra Ranges have removed the Building Order and have no further issues with my building.”

The Ombudsman’s report noted the Municipal Building Surveyor at Mitchell Shire Council has ’ongoing legal and professional responsibilities’ in regard to the building permit, while the Municipal Building Surveyor at Yarra Ranges Shire is unable to be the Relevant Building Surveyor due to the building order.

If Robyn wishes to receive a Final Certificate for the building, it must be issued by Mitchell Shire Council’s Municipal Building Surveyor.

Only with the consent of the council can this be done, and Mitchell Shire Council previously told Robyn that it no longer provides consent for permits for buildings outside of its municipal boundaries after a policy change in 2015. “(Mitchell Shire) Council has met with the owner of the building, and we’re focused on

finding a constructive solution and committed to supporting the landowner in understanding her options moving forward,” Mr Luxford said.

In August 2022, there was an unsuccessful attempt to reach a conclusion between the councils through conciliation because neither party could agree on the key facts of the case and who shouldered the burden of responsibility, prompting the Ombudsman to proceed with the investigation.

A Yarra Ranges Council spokesperson said on top of the difficulties and complexities of rebuilding after an emergency and the complexity of the separate planning and building permit process with modified structures, the Council has to ensure that life health and safety considerations are paramount to ensure the risk to residents living in converted structures is resolved.

“In this case, once the building was upgraded to ensure the minimum safety requirements were met, particularly giving regard to the fact that it is located in a bushfire-prone area, Yarra Ranges withdrew the building order, to enable Mitchell Shire Council to proceed to resolve the issue of the building permit which had expired,” they said.

“Yarra Ranges Council is pleased to see that, in response to the Ombudsman Victoria report, Mitchell Shire has offered to work with the owner to finalise the matters.”

Robyn said she would like to see better processes in local governments for ratepayers to count on with communications.

“Dealing with the Office of the Ombudsman has been a very positive experience. They have hit the nail on the head about the underlying and salient issues. I can’t speak highly enough of the professionalism and considered humanity of everyone I dealt with at the Office of the Ombudsman,” Robyn said.

“Though the issues are not fully resolved, the Ombudsman has moved it all to a place where I can get on with my life.”

Victorian Ombudsman Deborah Glass, who tabled the Investigation into a Building Permit complaint in Parliament, said that while Robyn’s circumstances may be unique, aspects of her story could happen to any of us.

“We all make mistakes, but when they are compounded by officialdom, we should expect agencies to help us find solutions. Our vulnerabilities should be acknowledged and reflected in how we are treated. Behind every complaint is a human story needing to be heard,” Ms Glass said.

“At times, both councils struggled to recognise the human story behind the complaints or that a vulnerable person who had lost so much might not be familiar with the building act and regulations.

“Although both councils have tried to work with Robyn to find a solution, they need to communicate clearly and consistently, to use their discretion, to find flexible solutions and to give reasons for their decisions. They need to treat dissatisfaction as a complaint and respond appropriately, rather than adopting a defensive position.”

The Victorian Building Authority was also contacted for comment.

Police investigated a fatal collision in Glenburn on Thursday 16 November.

It was understood a vehicle and a truck collided along the Melba Highway, forcing the car to burst into flames about 7.40am.

The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle died at the scene.

The truck driver sustained minor injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment.

The exact cause of the collision is yet to be released.

Yarra Ranges Detectives seeking owner of stolen power tools Yarra Ranges Detectives have located a quantity of power tools believed to have been stolen from the Eastern suburbs in October this year.

The power tools also had a ‘Get Gripped’ elbow sleeve. If you think this property is yours, please contact Detective PRICE at the Yarra Ranges CIU on 9739-2401.

The owner will need to provide ownership of the tools before they are collected.

Another AED installed in the Upper Yarra Log Cabin Pizza is the newest owner of a publically accessible AED installed by the Woori Yallock and District Bendigo Community Bank.

The new AED can be found to the left of the front entrance of the popular restaurant, with plenty of parking available to stop and jump out to grab the device in an emergency situation.

The AED can be accessed by calling Triple Zero (000) to request the code or by registering with the GoodSAM app to be alerted when someone suffering a cardiac arrest in the local area.

Responders or anyone who witnesses a cardiac arrest are still urged to call 000 and request an ambulance regardless of the presence of an AED.

Hunt on for lost joey of Woori Yallock wombat hit by a car A mother wombat was hit by a car near 54 Lusatia Park Road in Woori Yallock either late on the night of Thursday 16 November or in the early hours of the following morning.

Waratah Wildlife Shelter took her in and noticed that she was lactating and they were unable to locate her joey.

The mother wombat was euthanised onsite due to the extent of her injuries.

It is possible that she left her joey in the burrow while she went out to forage however judging by the size of her teat and pouch, the joey may have been in her pouch and been thrown out when she was hit.

If you happen to have picked up a young wombat along there please reach out or take it to your nearest vet clinic, the joey may be injured and as with all wildlife will require specialised care.

If the young joey was left in the burrow, it’s going to get hungry in the coming days and will eventually venture out so if you live in that area or drive along Lustatia Park Road regularly please keep an eye out, drive carefully and don’t hesitate to call Raewyn Jeganathan from the Waratah Wildlife Shelter at 0400 882 704 or Wildlife Victoria (8400 7300) if you spot it as soon as possible.

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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MAIL 3

NEWS

Cr Todorov is new mayor

By Mikayla Van Loon After just three years serving the Yarra Ranges community as a councillor, Sophie Todorov has been elected as the new mayor for 2024.

The Melba Ward councillor was nominated at the Tuesday 14 November council meeting

by Johanna Skelton and will serve alongside David Eastham who was elected as deputy mayor.

“I’m just so proud to have this position and my fellow councillors are confident in my abilities and who I am and what my aspirations are for the councillor team and our community as well. So I’m really proud to have this opportunity,” Mayor Todorov said.

Initially just wanting to “do my job really well as a councillor” and not really envisioning filling the position, Mayor Todorov said having the opportunity to become deputy mayor last year gave her a taste for what the role of mayor would look like.

“That was the catalyst for growing my capability, confidence and skill set to the point where I put my hand up for mayor this year,” she said.

“I’ve learnt a lot over the last 12 months being deputy mayor to Cr Child as well. So that’s really assisted.”

Extremely grateful to have had the guidance and mentorship of Cr Child, Mayor Todorov said it was invaluable to have access to such an experienced councillor to turn to for advice.

Over her year-long term, Mayor Todorov said she would like to be a community representative who is “really full of energy” and someone who really fosters connections.

“I just believe in the connection of communities. To me that’s so important, that drives the health and well being of any community,” she said. “We saw even after the pandemic, the one thing that rose as a concern was social isolation.”

Councillor Sophie Todorov was elected as Mayor, while David Eastham will serve as Deputy Mayor of Yarra Ranges Council for 2023-24.

Picture: YARRA RANGES COUNCIL Wanting to meet, engage with and hear from all people, Mayor Todorov said she will aim to get to as many events across the municipality as possible and really encourage “deliberative engagement” when it comes to the council’s plans, strategies and future projects. “[I’m looking forward to] being involved with as many opportunities and events as my hours in the day will allow me.

“To be part of the community alongside them and celebrating all our achievements as well and then being there to support those who aren’t travelling so well.”

Passionate about improving access and bettering the outcomes for people, Mayor Todorov said it comes from having a “proactive approach to community, not reactive”.

“I come from a background of doing a lot of volunteering in community, working with young people, understanding the diverse needs of community.

“I’m really passionate about such things as mental well being and just being healthy and active out there in the community.”

Some of the major items to be delivered in 2024 include the housing and aquatics strategies, as well as continuing to work on the council’s reconciliation action plan.

“I’m really passionate about that connection to Indigenous culture and history here, which is what makes Yarra Ranges so unique,” she said.

“We’re looking at the ongoing use of fire stick burning as a way to look after our environment and acknowledge those Indigenous historical practices as well…to invite in that culture to be part of what we’re recognised for in looking after our Country and having that custodianship.

“We’re all custodians of this Country, and we owe it to care for it, too.”

Mayor Todorov will be supported by Cr Eastham as he steps into the position of deputy mayor again after holding it for a term in 2020-2021.

He said he looked forward to working even more closely with the new mayor, community and taking on the challenges that lay ahead.

“To be representing Yarra Ranges Council in the role of deputy is a role that has a lot of responsibility, and it is an absolute honour and privilege to be elected as deputy mayor,” Cr Eastham said.

“I look forward to working with Cr Todorov over the next 12 months and look forward to having a partnership with you to better represent the organisation and more importantly to ensure we have and deliver the best outcomes for the community.”

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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NEWS

The funds for the upgrade to the Maroondah Highway and Killara Road intersection were confirmed to be saved.

Pictures: ON FILE

Trying to turn right from Killara Road onto Maroondah Highway Coldstream.

Road funds survive cuts

By Dongyun Kwon The funds for the upgrade to the Maroondah Highway and Killara Road intersection have been saved after a 90-day infrastructure review of the 2023/24 federal budget.

The project is to build traffic lights on Coldstream’s Killara Road-Maroondah Highway intersection which will provide huge convenience for drivers to turn right from Killara onto Maroondah Highway.

It was enabled thanks to the local community’s strong campaign which asked to the government not to delay the delivery of the project.

Coldstream CFA captain Sean Bethell said he was extremely happy the upgrade project was going ahead.

“That traffic has always been difficult to get

out onto the [Maroondah] highway, especially, when we’re turning right from either Station Street or Killara Road.

“As a fire brigade member, we don’t always have traffic obeying the rules of giving way to emergency vehicles. It makes it more difficult to get out safely.”

Cpt Bethell said saving the funds for the upgrade was important to him not only as a member of Coldstream CFA but also as a local in the Coldstream community.

“Getting out onto that highway is very difficult, especially during peak times. When we have public holidays, the traffic is bumper to bumper and it is very difficult to get out,” he said.

Evelyn MP Bridget Vallence and Casey MP Aaron Violi hosted community meetings to listen to the local voices and created a petition

including their voices about the issue.

Ms Vallence said it was common sense to see the federal government confirming the funding allocation for the Maroondah Highway Coldstream project.

“Now, there’s no excuse for the state government to get on with the job of duplicating Maroondah Highway Coldstream and fixing the dangerous Killara Road intersection,” she said.

“This road is a state government’s responsibility to fix. Our community will never give up on this vital road safety project, and now I’ll be asking the state government to commit to a start date to finally upgrade Maroondah Highway Coldstream.”

Mr Violi said he is thrilled that the strong community campaign has saved the $20 million in funding for the Maroondah Highway

and Killara Road upgrade, secured by the former Federal Government.

“This result is a credit to the strength of our community, the 1000 people who signed my petition to keep the funds in Coldstream, the hundreds who attended community meetings with Bridget Vallence MP and I, and everyone who advocated the Federal Government on the importance of this project,” he said.

“After five years of inaction by the Victorian State Government, it is time they got on with the job and fixed this dangerous intersection.

“This must be made a priority. Now this funding has been saved, I will continue calling on the Victorian Government to prioritise this vital upgrade for all residents of the Yarra Valley.”

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MAIL 5

NEWS

Vote motivates treaty bid

By Mikayla van Loon Despite conversations about the referendum dying down since the vote count came back with a resounding no, for one young Indigenous leader it has fuelled the fire to make change.

Healesville based Indigenous educator Thane Garvey said although he “was already planning for the worst” the result was still “heartbreaking”.

“We all knew that that was probably what was going to happen. We still had some hope though that it could get across the line at the last minute but unfortunately, it probably ended up doing the opposite and going in the other direction even more at the last minute,” he said.

“It was heartbreaking, it sucks. When it comes to these kinds of things, it does leave a bit of an imprint on the Indigenous community, especially the communities that had seven or eight years of involvement in developing the Uluru Statement of the Heart.”

After doing all the groundwork on supporting the Indigenous Voice to Parliament and “then to see the first step of it fail”, Thane said it was “pretty heartbreaking for all of us”.

Even more so, Thane said it was disheartening to see and hear the bipartisan support for treaty in Queensland was withdrawn after The Voice vote and hopes it doesn’t impact other treaty processes around the country.

“It shows the government’s not really interested in doing what’s morally right, really just what the majority of people want,” he said.

“I don’t even think the vote represents a racist Australia or an Australia that doesn’t want to acknowledge or embrace Indigenous people, I think it just shows how gullible we are more than anything else.

“It just shows we don’t really have the education around policy and legislation and governance in general, politics, education around Indigenous Affairs, all these things we’re lacking in.”

But not giving up hope on making statewide, if not countrywide, progress Thane said “we have got other options and there’s plenty to look forward to”.

“We’ve just got to forget about the voice for now and moving forward, we’ve just got to focus on treaty.

“Hopefully we can get treaty across the line and then we can start working towards other things like maybe land rights, to do that we’ve got to start working on scrapping Native Title and trying to get land rights back.

“We can work towards making sure our kids that are 10 years old, aren’t locked up. 80 per cent of 10 year olds in Australia that are locked up are Indigenous.”

The First People’s Assembly of Victoria has been the backing in the discussion of treaty since being established in 2018 and Thane said “they’re doing a lot of good things”.

“They’ve been acting as a voice to parliament for the last few years really anyway talking for Indigenous people in Victoria.

“I think they will get it across the line, I just hope it’s done in a way that’s right. That’s such a difficult thing, what’s right? Some mobs have different views than others and we’re going to

have to sit down at the table and have a big discussion. It’s got to be done.”

For Thane, The Voice would have been a great way to solidify the momentum that has been building over many years to recognise and acknowledge First Nations culture and said now is the chance to push for more.

“We’ve got to get some type of legislation put in place. Legislation that can’t be messed with or tampered with, unless we want it tampered with.

“That’s got to happen soon because it’s getting to the point now where we’ve built this big momentum up starting back when William Barak died in 1903 and then NAIDOC march started 1921, January 26.

“Then after that, people like William Cooper coming through and referendums, and then you have [Eddie] Mabo and all these amazing people that have just built on, built on, like Cathy Freeman, and they just keep this momentum going. Briggs and Lydia Thorpe coming through today, and I don’t want that to fall off now.

“I feel like if something doesn’t happen in the next 10 to 20 years, something that can really solidify that shift people start to get a bit like ‘we’ve heard it before’.”

One thing Thane said could help support the discussion of treaty nationally is the voices of other indigenous peoples from around the world where treaty has been worked into policy.

“As Indigenous Australians, we need to start branching out to our brothers and sisters over in New Zealand and all these other countries all over the planet, all these different places that managed to get treaty across the line, “Even in America, they have some of the best treaties out there. We need to get these people to shame Australia for not doing this because it’s pretty obvious that governments in Australia really look up to a lot of the bigger governments and big countries, some of our biggest allies, like America, for instance.”

Advocacy and education, Thane said, are the two biggest modes of changing perceptions, outside normal circles and communities.

“We’ve got to start working now to make sure we can have people thinking in a way that is educated and in a way that accepts Indigenous people in Australia.

“If we can do that, then hopefully some of these big decisions that get made on a nationwide scale…start to favor Indigenous people slightly.”

Motivated to make change and keep the momentum going after the referendum, Thane said time didn’t stop after the vote - it only got started.

“As soon as the referendum failed the work started. It’s only a number of days, the countdown started from then, the countdown until we have another election or referendum or legislation or we have another vote to get an indigenous minister in or whatever it might be.

“It doesn’t matter what it is. At some point there’s going to be more votes coming towards policy and legislation that’s going to shape the way that we live.”

Thane Garvey was heartbroken after the referendum result was announced.

Picture: SUPPLIED

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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NEWS

Families always welcome Yarra Ranges suburbs have dominated Property Credit’s ‘Top 20 Suburbs for Raising a Family in Australia’ report’s Melbourne list.

The report, launched on Monday 13 November and created by Suburbtrends, used buyer index assessing market favourability and pinpointed suburbs with a buyer index between four and and six, sale average listings and median multiple; comparing the median house price to annual household income.

Census data was also used to identify suburbs with at least 50 per cent family households, the advantage disadvantage decile which rates suburbs on a scale from one to 10 within the state, with 10 denoting the highest socio-economic status.

Suburbs with a decile of six or higher reflecting better infrastructure, education, healthcare, and community services were selected in the report.

Distance to the city was also taken account during research, with report authors capping the distance to a maximum of 50km from the city for suburbs to make the list.

Cockatoo and Selby were listed seventh and eighth respectively of most family friendly suburbs in Melbourne, with Cockatoo’s median house sale price at $750,000 and Selby’s at $860,000.

The percentage of family households in the area are at 80 per cent and 83 per cent respectively, and both towns with a buyer index of four.

While Cockatoo sits at 49 kilometres distance from the CBD, a commute from Selby would be slightly shorter with a 38-kilometre trek.

Upwey, Seville, Montrose, The Basin, Coldstream, Mount Evelyn and Mooroolbark are all named in the list; sitting at 11th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th and 18th respectively.

Sellers tend to dominate the market in Upwey, Montrose and The Basin, as well as Mount Evelyn and Mooroolbark, with a buyer index of three for each suburb.

Affordability, community ethos and access to urban amenities were all taken into consideration in naming the top 20 family friendly suburbs in Melbourne.

Picture: TOM RUMBLE, UNSPLASH On the other hand, buyers have more of the upper hand in potential price depreciation risks more likely in Seville and Coldstream at a buyer index of six and seven for the respective areas.

Ranges First National Director Mick Dolphin said the report’s findings are conducive to what he has seen in the market.

“School’s great, we’ve got good sporting facilities, lots of diverse community groups as well,” he said.

“There’s arts, there’s sports, lots of different community groups, so there’s quite a diversity of interests up here.

“A lot of people that buy up here are young

families... everyone knows everyone to a degree up here and so here...not even including the actual environment itself and larger blocks which is pretty good too.”

Property Credit CEO Giordano Stepancic said selecting a family home is a decision that transcends the physical space.

“It’s about choosing a community, investing in a lifestyle, and considering the legacy we leave for our children,” Mr Stepancic said.

“Our report is meticulously designed to guide families towards suburbs that are not just places to live but spaces where life’s best moments can unfold.”

Mr Stepancic said transitioning from a sell-

er’s market to one that’s increasingly accommodating for buyers, at a pivotal moment in the real estate market, is “particularly timely”.

“It’s reflective of a market teeming with possibilities for families seeking to secure their future in nurturing environments,” he said.

“As the market shifts, the opportunities for families are expanding.

“The suburbs we’ve highlighted are transitioning to a buyers’ market, presenting a prime window for families to find a home in a community where they can truly belong.”

The report can be found on Property Credit’s platforms.

New bus routes are afoot but not everyone’s on board Changes to the Yarra Valley bus network will take effect from Sunday 26 November, which has caused lots of concerns.

As Star Mail reported in May, former Public Transport minister Ben Carroll announced the changes on Wednesday 26 April and said they would improve the bus services in Yarra Valley.

“We’re improving the Yarra Valley bus network, with more direct and higher frequency services to make catching the bus a better option for locals travelling to employment, education, shops, healthcare and other transport modes,” he said.

Route 684 will be shortened due to low patronage and will no longer travel to Southern Cross Station in Melbourne.

It will be operated from Elidon to Ring-

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nity to attend medical appointments in Melbourne,” she said in a statement.

“They also have to contend with the inconvenience of transitioning from one mode of transport to another on at least two occasions and may have to walk a considerable distance rather than be dropped at the door.”

Ms Denham is calling for people to lodge a complaint against PTV’s decision.

“We are urging everyone to lodge a complaint with the ombudsman by visiting www. ombudsman.vic.gov.au/complaints/makecomplaint/,” she said in the statement.

“It is a simple four-step process which takes less than ten minutes to complete.

“If enough people participate and explain how the PTV’s decision will adversely impact them then the government may be forced to change their decision.”

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Route 686 Healesville to Badger Creek will be replaced by the extended route 685 which will provide a consistent service to the Badger Creek area.

Savings from consolidating routes 685 and 686 will be reinvested into Route 685’s improvements.

In response to low patronage Route 687 Healesville to Chum Creek will be discontinued.

Despite the department’s intention to improve the service, local passengers are concerned about the upcoming inconveniences.

Save The Bus Action Group convenor, an arm of the Buxton Progress Association, Carmel Denham said the new timetable would have no additional services for the 684 bus neither on the weekend nor during the week.

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Passengers will be able to transfer to the train network at Lilydale or Ringwood stations.

The service will also wait for up to 20 minutes at Ringwood Station for late-running trains, ensuring Eildon passengers do not miss their connection.

Route 685 will be upgraded to link Healesville, Healesville Sanctuary, Badger Creek, Coldstream and Yarra Glen and will become the primary public transport connection to Lilydale Station.

Services will increase on this route to a 40-minute frequency on weekdays and Saturdays, and a 60-minute frequency on Sundays with more evening services added.

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www.williammatthewsfunerals.com.au Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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MAIL 7

NEWS

Call to ban 1080 poison

By Dongyun Kwon A few weeks ago, a powerful owl was found dead from 1080 poison in the Warrandyte area.

Babbajin Park Wildlife Shelter founder Tony Woolley said the powerful owl was taken to a vet after a local found it.

“They’ve done a test on it and the result said it was poisoned. I ended up putting the bird to rest,” Mr Woolley said.

“It is not very good. I don’t want to see animals suffering from poison.”

The poison which killed the owl is 1080 poison which is used for the control of a variety of pest animals by Agriculture Victoria.

“They do a baiting program in national parks and drop it from the air as well,” Mr Woolley said.

“The powerful owl would have eaten animals which ate the bait.”

Mr Woolley said the poison 1080 should be banned in Australia to protect wild animals.

“A lot of countries have banned using 1080 poison while Australia is still using it. We’ve got to ban this potent poison,” he said.

Mr Woolley has been running Babbajin Park Wildlife Shelter for a few decades to take care of sick and injured wild animals.

He has grown up with animals since he was three years old because of his dad who was a curator at London Zoo. “The purpose of founding Babbajin Park Wildlife Shelter is to rehabilitate injured wildlife animals and put them back into the wild,” Mr Woolley said.

“We have 65 animals at the moment which are all natural animals.”

Tony Woolley and the dead powerful owl.

Picture: TONY WOOLLEY FACEBOOK

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NEWS

Yarra Glen RSL president Stephen Shortis on Remembrance Day 2022.

Mr Shortis (left) was getting ready to march on Anzac Day 2023.

Pictures: ON FILE

President to say goodbye

By Dongyun Kwon Yarra Glen RSL president Stephen Shortis will step down from his position in January 2024.

Mr Shortis officially announced it to the public during the Remembrance Day service.

He has served the RSL as a president for five years after taking a treasurer position for a few years.

The president said he decided to step down because he has moved to Montrose.

“I moved to Montrose in June but the AGM doesn’t come up until January next year. So I will keep a position till the AGM,” he said.

His journey for the welfare of veterans and soldiers started after he got back from the Vietnam War. Mr Shortis said he wanted to help soldiers and veterans who suffered from PTSD. “When we came back from Vietnam, we were very unpopular. Everybody was antiwar [stance] by the end of the war. We were shunned by everybody,” he said.

“Our generation was probably the first time we got an understanding of what PTSD really was, so we decided to set up the welfare organisation.

“It was just another opportunity to help the community.”

Mr Shortis has a military family background and could deeply relate to those people who suffered from the aftereffects of the wars they participated in.

His father served in the Australian Army being dispatched to several conflicts including in the Middle East and Papua New Guinea and retired as a warrant officer which was the highest rank he could reach as a non-commissioned officer.

“Before my father, my grandfather was gassed in World War I in France and he suffered severely from that when he came back,” Mr Shortis said.

“My uncle Ned on my father’s side was my first knowledge of PTSD, the impact that has on soldiers. He came back from the war and

never settled down at all. After a few years, he was found drowned in a dam up the Riverina.”

One of the accomplishments he has done as a president of Yarra Glen RSL is to move the cenotaph to a safer place.

It had been located between the Yarra Glen Memorial Hall and the Melba Highway and has now been moved to the current location at Anzac Avenue facing Mackenzie Reserve to better accommodate larger crowds during Anzac Day and Remembrance Day services.

Mr Shortis said it was a traffic hazard when the crowd started to swell during the services and people were spilling out onto the roadway, which became a dangerous situation.

Another thing Mr Shortis has been working on is to display a scale model of the Huey helicopter.

“We’ve got the helicopter bill and the council’s approval, but we didn’t get it underway.

Hopefully next year I’ll be able to come back and take part in the ceremony,” Mr Shortis said.

After many years of devotion to improving the lives of veterans and soldiers, Mr Shortis has received acknowledgment from other RSL members.

Yarra Glen RSL secretary and treasurer Edward Bartosh said the president has done a really good job and it would be difficult to replace him.

“We will have to replace him so that we can continue doing a remembrance service. It’s really important that we stay active and keep in the minds of the community to pass on to the next generation,” he said.

Mr Shortis said he was happy to turn to another stage of his life.

“We have always been very humbled by the support we get from the locals and my job was made a lot easier by an extremely talented secretary,” he said.

“I’ve enjoyed what I’ve done here and I’ve done what I could,” he said.

“It’s somebody else’s turn to start moving on.”

Yarra Glen cenotaph has moved to a safer place.

Bundled Branch Collection Yarra Ranges Council bundled branch collection will commence on Monday, 27 November and take place throughout the Yarra Ranges until Friday, 15 December.

Items accepted for collection Each household can place out up to three cubic metres of bundled branches, provided: Branches must be tied with non-plastic string.

Their pile has no more than 20 bundles of branches.

Each individual bundle, tree limb or log is no longer than 1.5m, no wider than 200mm.

Logs should be straight and clean with side branches removed.

Items NOT accepted for collection stumps, timber, roots, hard waste, bamboo, creepers, soft plants and grass clippings Bundled branches must be placed on your nature strip up to one week prior to your collection week - check yarraranges.vic.gov.au/myneighbourhood for your property’s collection week

Mr Shortis (left) with Yarra Glen RSL secretary and treasurer Edward Bartosh (middle) while Mr Bartosh was receiving his Victorian RSL life membership. mailcommunity.com.au

For more information please call Council on 1300 368 333 or visit yarraranges.vic.gov.au/bundledbranches 12650391-MS47-23

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Darcie says ‘give it a go’

By Callum Ludwig A young early childhood educator working in Woori Yallock has been recognised for her hard work and promising start to her career.

Darcie Neicho recently received the Rising Star Award for east Victoria working in Only About Children’s Woori Campus.

Ms Neicho said it’s obviously a very tough job and very rewarding at the same time, but being recognized for her work was very nice.

“I have nine nieces and nephews and I’ve been an aunty since I was 11 so I’ve always been around kids and I just love watching them and helping them thrive and grow,” she said.

“I went into it not thinking that it would be as challenging as it is, you don’t really realise all the different challenging behaviours or just how mentally draining it can be sometimes and I definitely thought it was more flowers and rainbows going in, which it is most days.”

Ms Neicho just completed her Certificate III in Early Childhood education and has been working full time for the last two years.

Ms Neicho said she finds it to be such a fun job, especially setting up activities she knows the kids will love.

“It brings you back to your own childhood, always remembering the stuff that you loved when you were a kid and yet just seeing them so happy and knowing that you’re a big part of their life, especially before school,” she said.

“It’s such a great feeling seeing that all the developmental milestones that they achieve

when they’re in your care, because a lot of them are there for the biggest part of their day and for three, four or some even five days a week as well.”

While the early childhood sector has faced its challenges, the introduction of the Victorian Early Childhood Teachers and Educators Agreement (VECTA) in 2020 has helped achieve pay parity for early childhood teachers with primary school teachers in more centres across the state, meaning more opprtiunties at government-owned and private centres can be available.

In June this year, the Independent Education Union (IEU), Australian Education Union (AEU) and the United Workers Union (UWU) all joined forces to bargain for a multi-entreprise agreement to further improve pay rates and conditions for early childhood educators.

Ms Neicho encouraged anyone interested in pursuing a career in the sector to do so.

“In my first week I felt like I had pretty much next to no idea what I was doing but I just went in with a very open mind and a willingness to learn and gain new abilities and I think that has been good,” she said.

“You do need a little bit more support, but in saying that, knowing that it’s okay to reach out for help and not be scared or intimidated by the people that have been in the industry for a very long time is important.”

Darcie Neicho has been recognised for her outstanding work in early childhood education.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Gladysdale grapes make a winning chardonnay

By Callum Ludwig A wine made from grapes grown in Gladysdale has taken out a prestigious award at the Melbourne Royal Wine Awards.

Handpicked Wines’ 2022 Wombat Creek Vineyard Yarra Valley Chardonnay took out the François De Castella Trophy for Best Young White, as well as the Best Chardonnay and Best Victorian Chardonnay to boot.

Chief winemaker Peter Dillon said it was an absolute buzz winning the award.

“We have always thought that those Wombay Creek Chardonnays are an amazing wine, but I suppose to win that top white trophy at the Melbourne show, which is effectively one of the biggest wine trophies in the Australian wide-circuit, was not necessarily something I anticipated so t was pretty amazing,” he said.

“From memory, there’s over 3000 entries and about one-third of those are chardonnay, so to be seen as the Best Chardonnay out of that many entries, we’re really quite elated by that win and the recognition and kudos for that wine and that site.”

Handpicked Wines took over operation of the Wombat Creek vineyard on Hazeldene Road in 2016, acquiring it from David and Fae Griffith Mr Dillon said the location is part of what helps the wine stand out.

“The Upper Yarra always has wines, particularly chardonnays, with lovely clarity, expression and finesse but I think on top of that, the vines were planted in the late 80s so they’ve got some real vine age,” he said.

“It tends to give just this lovely concentration of flavour and layers of flavour in the wine so you end up with that subtlety of the Upper Yarra but also that real power and persistence of flavour,” “It’s great that that original vision from them (David and Fae Griffith) has paid off.”

L-R: Ben Bussell, William Dong, Peter Dillon and Lucy Adam from Handpicked Wines at the Melbourne Royal Wine Awards.

Picture: SUPPLIED All in all, Handpicked Wines walked away with three gold medals, three silver medals and six bronze medals from their 11 vineyards while the winery was also nominated as a finalist for Champion Victorian Winery, ultimately losing out to Yarra Yering.

Mr Dillon said he thinks the spread of wineries and their scale in the Yarra Ranges is a great thing.

“That’s probably what’s nice in many ways about the wine industry in general, but certainly the Yarra Valley, you see a real range of different people, approaches, businesses and scales and over the years that success has been well shared across the board,” he said.

“It’s not easy growing grapes in the Upper Yarra with the recent weather patterns of the La Nina and it’s quite a high-pressure site with the elevation, rainfall and moisture,” “For us, that’s the real payoff in terms of investing that time and effort to grow those grapes.”

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NEWS

River Folk Festival returns

By Callum Ludwig The fourth edition of the River Folk Festival is set to fill Warburton with songs on summer nights this year.

This year’s event will be held from Friday 1 to Sunday 3 December with much-loved artists from overseas, interstate and close to home descending on the town.

Event Director Sam Watson said the festival has a pretty beautiful lineup for Warburton this year and he is looking forward to some summer weather too.

“It’s such a creative community out here and having a mark in the calendar of a big celebration we can go to right on our doorstep in this beautiful part of the world, it just feels like you’re better able to enjoy what the festival has to offer,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to having patrons and artists able to jump in the river if it’s warm enough.”

The 2023 River Folk Festival is headlined by award-winning Melburnians The Maes, internationally-renowned Solomon Islands singer Charles Maimarosia and John Flanagan who has gained plaudits for his Australian-style folk sound, like Australia’s own version of Americana.

Mr Watson said the idea of the festival, and particularly its new date, is to energise the town and have it full and exciting.

“We’ll be on the same weekend, starting on Friday, as the annual Warburton Christmas Twilight Market, as well as the Valley Market Warburton, which is the Sunday,” he said.

“It will be nice to have people enjoying the markets, the really fine outdoor weather, and the river which was one of the big positives in moving the date for this year,” “It’s approaching the school holidays and Christmas time when a good warm weekend in Warburton gets pretty packed at the best of times.”

A great turnout at the River Folk festival in 2022.

Picture: KATE BAKER

The Maes are one of the headline acts at the 2023 River Folk Festival in Warburton.

Picture: SUPPLIED The festival is not limited to just folk, as jazz, roots and country music will all feature as Gusto Gusto, The Good Behaviours, Mickey & Michelle, Great Aunt, Jo Davie, Emily-Rose Sarkova, Saije, Apolline and Isabel Rumble complete the lineup.

Mr Watson said the return of the festival after Covid last year made for a wonderful event.

“We had arranged artists for the 2020 festival

which was the first one cancelled but remained in conversation with them continually through each postponement and cancellation of the festival due to the pandemic until finally in 2022, we were actually able to realise that lineup and those artists got their chance to perform at the festival which was great to see,” he said.

“Attendance was the highest we’d had so far and I think one of the really beautiful things was

aside from the spectacular weather that weekend, everyone at that time was really wanting to shake off the effects of what lockdowns did for the live events industry,” “That was a real welcome aspect for a lot of people to just experience the freedom of how an event was, prior to all of the restrictions and we are hopeful that this year will be another step forward.”

With the Healesville Music Festival announcing it would no longer be running in the future earlier this year, the continued presence of the River Folk Festival remains important to the local music scene in the years to come.

Mr Watson said they absolutely intend for it to continue and to continue growing.

“We have plans, ideas and visions of how it will be in five years’ time and in 10 years’ time so there’s a longevity behind the trajectory that we’re on and the goal always was to start at a certain size and grow in a way that integrates with the town to the point where the entire town becomes the festival for the weekend,” he said.

“There are so many venues and so many artists performing in the Melbourne music scene and it’s quite saturated, so having an alternative that’s still within reach for Melbourne patrons, and also in such a gorgeous part of the world as the Yarra Valley, is very important.”

THE

RIVER FOLK FESTIVAL

Ranges TEC student Elijah (Middle), Ranges TEC teacher Mike Waddell (R) and Powelltown Sawmills CEO Dan Pote (L).

Picture: SUPPLIED

Nod to students’ furniture

mailcommunity.com.au

it was a privilege to be involved in the partnership program.

“It was fantastic to see the projects progress to the quality pieces they have produced. The program started with tours of the forest to gain an understanding of native timber harvesting practices, how the logs are processed to make the timber, to the students being able to utilise the timber for their projects, without the financial impact,” Mr Pote said.

“They have created truly exceptional pieces that they should be extremely proud of.” Ranges TEC teacher Mike Waddell said one of his students, Elijah, had put a lot of work into his furniture piece, which was a table he hoped would be around for generations to come.

“Making a family heirloom table from this timber was very exciting and it was great to see the finished piece,” Elijah said.

Another student, James, said it was a gift to be able to use such beautiful wood. Referring to the fact the donated wood was an offcut that would have been used for firewood, James said, “I am thankful that I could give this wood a second chance.”

THE MAES JOHN FLANAGAN CHARLES MAIMAROSIA

GUSTO GUSTO THE GOOD BEHAVIOURS

DEC 1-3

MICKEY & MICHELLE GREAT AUNT JO DAVIE EMILY-ROSE SARKOVA WARBURTON ISABEL RUMBLE APOLLINE SAIJE Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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Students from Lilydale’s Ranges TEC have received awards for signature furniture pieces crafted from native timber donated by Powelltown Sawmills as part of their community awareness course requirements.

The course, a partnership between the school, the mill and VicForests, concluded with an awards ceremony held on Monday 23 October. The awards, provided by Powelltown Mill, were presented across four categories: design, application to task, quality and difficulty of task.

Using native timber donated by Powelltown Sawmills, students crafted a signature piece of timber furniture such as a dining table, a coffee table, a cabinet or a chair.

VicForests Stakeholder Relations Specialist Kim Barned said that throughout the course, students experienced hardwood timber production from start to finish and have created furniture that would last a lifetime. “Students visited the forest and the Powelltown Sawmill to observe every stage of the native timber industry giving them a true understanding of where their furniture piece came from,” Mr Barned said.

Powelltown Sawmills CEO Dan Pote said

MAIL 11

NEWS

Filling the lavender fields

By Callum Ludwig The sights and smells at the Warratina Lavender Farm won’t be all there is to enjoy on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 November.

The Warratina Lavender Festival is set to be held, filling the fields of lavender with activities and entertainment.

Owner of the Warratina Lavender Farm Annemarie Manders said the farm is looking amazing.

“Every year I say to myself ‘Im never going to do another festival’ but it’s our 29th festival this year so I had to, it’s always hard to know when to to start to plan a festival because you never know how the season is going to go,” she said.

“Last year, the season was three weeks late but this year it’s right on time and everything looks fantastic, not only have we got fields of lavender in bloom, but there are lavenders that flower early so people will get the opportunity of seeing the early flowering lavender and there’s lots of photo opportunities.”

Entertainment on the day includes a ukelele show from Warburton children’s performer Woody’s World, the Old Scotch Collegians Pipe Band, llamas on the Staurday with potential for alpacas to be organised for the Sunday, old crafts and trades like spinners and weavers,

blacksmiths, woodturners, tatters and lacemakers and family favourites like fairy floss and face painting.

Ms Manders said she loves the activity the festival brings.

“I also love giving enjoyment to people and it really does do that, we get a lot of people visiting for the flowers, but also to try some of the lavender products like our lavender ice cream and scones and the people just love them,” she said.

Tickets are $19 for adults, $17 for concession and kids under 14 enter free.

Ms Manders said it’s great to see the lavender in bloom after poor conditions last year.

“Last year was almost a total disaster, we lost 40 per cent of our lavender last year because it was just too wet and you don’t want too much rain and we never water our lavender,” she said.

“Last year some of our lavender ended up sitting in a lake and it died, so lots of sun and not too much overcast weather,” “The other very important thing is in autumn, you need to cut your lavender back hard, and then it goes into a dormant state where it almost looks dead before it rears its head again in September and by November is looking fantastic.”

10th Run for Young looms

By Mikayla van Loon The countdown to the 10th annual Run for the Young marathon event has the team at Bridge Builders getting excited and nervous all at once.

In the final stages of training and planning before the big day on Sunday 26 November, the team can feel the anticipation growing as registrations continue to flood in.

But for one person in particular the 10 year anniversary is a special moment having started it all those years ago to fill the bucket list item of running a marathon.

Race director Beck Mitchell brought the idea to Bridge Builders founder Phil Stenhouse as a way to do her first marathon but what ensued has been bigger and more powerful than Beck ever envisioned.

“I remember just getting to a point when I was in my mid 20s and I just went ‘one day is going to be now’ and I thought I’m gonna go and do it,” she said.

“I wanted to use that opportunity, of doing a marathon, as a way of helping other people.”

Starting the first year with around 100 participants, it pretty much tripled by the second year, with the aim of 1000 registrations for this year. “[That’s when we realised] there’s something in this, people want to do this. They want to run, they want to have a great day but they also want to support a good cause,” Beck said.

“We’ve seen that growth year on year since we started. It’s always gone up, it’s never gone down and it just continues to grow. It’s quite amazing.”

The marathon event is one of the biggest fundraisers for Bridge Builders as a charity, which all goes towards supporting young people from the region.

“We’re using it as a skill development for young people. It’s what we do every day, but it obviously benefits the cause as well. And it’s just so beautiful to see that grassroots involvement because it’s not some big commercial operation coming along and the running event.

“The people running it are the people that receive the benefit. It’s just so different from what’s in the industry.”

But Beck said over the years it has become apparent that it’s more than just about helping young people, every person that runs in the event also has a story or purpose behind it.

“The stories I hear from the participants themselves you would have never expected.

There’s a participant and she’s a mum and she actually lost her kid who was like 21 at the time, and she runs Run for the Young in honour of his life every year.

“It’s stuff like that and there are literally 12 MAIL

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

Head to Warratina Lavender Farm for the festival on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 November.

Picture: ON FILE

Tenzin Choegyal returning for concert at Yarra Valley

By Callum Ludwig

Bridge Builders’ Run for the Young crew is prepped and ready to host the 10th annual event.

Picture: MIKAYLA VAN LOON thousands of those stories where somebody has picked Run for the Young for something special like people choose it for their 200th marathon.”

Beck also said the creation of the newbie category was a purposeful addition to the race to celebrate those people who, like herself, are running their first marathon.

“My favourite part is probably watching the newbie marathoners finish. I’ve been there, done that, I know what it’s like,” she said.

“It’s only like four per cent of the world’s population that have run a marathon so they’re kind of joining a bit of an elite group and it’s a really big moment for a lot of people.

“So to be able to facilitate that and be there and cheer them on, it’s pretty special.”

As with any major event, the need for volunteers is high and Run for the Young is still looking for some extra people to man the drink stations along the Warburton Trail route.

“We just need a few more people out on the course standing at a drink station and… supporting people as they get their hydration.

“To know there’s people out there who are going to cheer on those runners as well, like the runners, while they require the hydration, having people on course encouraging them goes a long way to getting them across the line.

“Especially when you’re 32km into a marathon, you can’t be bothered but to have someone who’s a complete stranger standing at a drink station saying ‘you can do this’, that’s amazing.”

Celebrating 10 years is a major milestone, considering the two years of lockdowns and virtual events, and is something Beck said she is still somewhat amazed by.

“To be in a position now where it’s been going 10 years, I still don’t quite believe it.”

To register for the event or to volunteer, go to runfortheyoung.com.au

A fan favourite at Yarra Valley ECOSS is returning for an upcoming concert on Friday 24 November.

Tibetan artist Tenzin Choegyal will be taking to the stage from 6pm, joined by the Little Yarra Ensemble.

Mr Choegyal said one of the best things about music is that you don’t have to be bothered by any geographical conditions that are put on human beings because everyone can relate to it.

“Music is like clouds, where they just drift from one place to another and then occasionally brings about beautiful harvest for the farmers or sometimes beautiful rainbows or sometimes storms like music brings emotions,” he said.

“I love sharing that and connecting to those things.”

Mr Choegyal was born in Tibet before leaving for Nepal. While in Nepal, his father died and Mr Choegyal got admitted to a school in Dharamsala, India called the Tibetan Children’s Village, which was established in 1960 for orphans, destitute and refugee children from Tibet.

In 1951, Tibet was occupied and annexed by China while the Tibetan government was absolved in 1959 following a failed uprising and the subsequent fleeing of the Dalai Lama and the government to Dharamsala.

Mr Choegyal moved to Australia in 1997 and set about establishing himself in the music scene, curating events such as the annual Brisbane Festival of Tibet and the Himalayan Film Festival as well as presenting several Women with Wisdom events at Brisbane’s Powerhouse, Sydney Opera House and Melbourne’s Federation Square, alongside toher efforts to promote and celebrate Tibetan culture and tradition.

Mr Choegyal said his affinity for music stemmed from his childhood with his parents.

“During my childhood, I was always listening to my parents singing and as they were doing their daily chores so probably through listening to my parents and elders I formed an affinity to the music,” he said.

“It’s always special to share songs, stories, human emotions and the love for nature and all those things, which I do with ECOSS.” Mr Choegyal performs with traditional Tibetan instruments the lingbu (bamboo

Tenzin Choegyal is returning to Yarra Valley ECOSS for a concert. Picture: DAVID KELLY flute) and dranyen (3-stringed lute) while singing folk tunes, utilising spoken word or powerfully performing melodic mantras and mastering the art of droklu, the nomadic songs of his parents.

A Tibetan ‘Taste of Culture’ demonstration will be held at the event, with traditional Tibetan food available to purchase for dinner.

Mr Choegyal said he has also formed an affinity and friendship with the Warburton area, including Yarra Valley ECOSS and Little Yarra Steiner School.

“One of my first gigs in Warburton was with the support of the Steiners School kids, we were just doing workshops and I made a few friends from there,” he said.

“I formed quite a number of friendships and I like visiting down that way and it also has a very beautiful community of artists, not only musicians.”

Mr Choegyal was nominated for a Grammy in 2021 for Best New Age Album for his album ‘Songs from the Bardo’, a modern interpretation of the Tibetan Book of the Dead, on which he collaborated with Laurie Anderson and Jesse Paris Smith. mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

The first Custom Car and Bike Show of the season was a success.

Pictures: CALLUM LUDWIG

More shows to come will be held in December 2023 and February and March 2024.

Custom wheels delight

By Callum Ludwig The Rotary Club of Wandin’s first Custom Car and Bike show for the season was a hit on Wednesday 15 November.

The entourage of show cars from 1985 and earlier and a varied selection of motorbikes at the Wandin East Recreation Reserve from 5pm to 8pm, with entrants arriving in style from 4pm ready for the show’s start.

The annual series of car shows helps the club raise money for their yearly donation to The Royal Children’s Hospital and for their lo-

cal community projects.

Over the last seven years, the Rotary Club of Wandin has given the Royal Children’s Hospital over $100,000, with support from the Wandin CFA, Wandin Cricket Club, Upper Yarra Rotary, car show entrants and attendees.

Entry for show cars and motorbikes was $10 while for spectators the entry fee was $2 to walk-in.

There are three more shows in the coming months; Wednesday 20 December, Wednesday 21 February and Wednesday 20 March for car enthusiasts to add to their calendars.

Cars from 1985 and prior can enter the shows.

Entry for cars and bikes is $10 and its $2 for walk-ins.

Cars from 1985 and prior can enter the shows.

Cars were queued up to be given their place.

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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MAIL 13

NEWS

Hands on plant learning

By Callum Ludwig Students at Upper Yarra Secondary College (UYSC) have had a practical plant-based activity to improve their understanding of biology and the process of photosynthesis.

An excursion to the Cranbourne Royal Botanic Gardens and an incursion with Grassroots Sustainability helped students get hands-on with plants.

STEM Teacher Marcus Cook said the opportunity gives students a different perspective on their learning.

“We’ve been very fortunate with the grant provided by Grassroot Sustainability to give students an extra chance to expand their knowledge. Many students here are going on fast-tracking for VCE Biology, so it really gives them an option of understanding the topic in more detail,” he said.

“The new native gardens we’ve got at the school are sensory gardens, so they’re just perfect for hands-on learning and the students have taken to it and dashed out and tried to make a bit of a challenge of the activity they’re doing.”

On their visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens in Cranbourne, UYSC students learn about biomimicry, where people have used concepts and ideas inspired or modelled by nature to solve problems, which have been critical to human history in areas such as architecture, engineering and design.

Back at school, students learn about the

We’ve got ourselves a convoy.

L-R: UYSC students Jane, Georgia, Keirah and Zoe with plant samples they found on the school grounds.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG different ways in which plants adapt to their environment.

Grassroots Sustainability Program Facili-

tator Meagan Butler said photosynthesis was the focus of the day and students would be doing an experiment where they could see

The fence may have been the only thing holding students back!

adaptation in action.

“For me to come here, it means that I’m connecting them with the vegetation and things on the property at their school, which may help them look at things a little bit differently,” she said.

“Our organisation stems from the horticulture and gardening business so we are all about giving students a taste and so that if they’re really interested they know they can pursue that interest and passion.”

Students went out into the native gardens at UYSC to find different examples of plants adapting to their environment, such as thick, dense bark on trees built to be more resistant to fire or plants that grow upwards to be closer to the sun.

Student Zoe said being outside was definitely a lot better for learning about the topic.

“Being in the outdoors, you get to learn more about nature and your surroundings, it’s definitely better than just writing notes in the classroom, because we are seeing the changes, adaptions and all the things we’re learning about,” she said.

“She (Meagan Butler) is an expert in the field so it’s a lot easier to get information from her than a teacher.”

Following their outdoor explorations, UYSC students headed back into their science classrooms to build a bean maze, where they will get to analyse the phenomenon of phototropism over the coming weeks as their bean plants grow towards the sunlight.

The new communication board in the schoolyard, courtesy of Variety.

Variety 4WD Adventure ends charity trip at Yarra Junction

By Callum Ludwig A grand adventure through the Victorian highlands for a good cause came to an end today, bringing with it a special experience for Yarra Junction Primary School (YJPS) students.

Four-wheel-driving enthusiasts from Queensland signed up to fundraise for the Variety Children’s Charity through the Varuety 4WD Adventure, held over nine days from 8 to 17 November.

General Manager of Variety Queensland Karyn Hicks said it has been a fantastic event and according to the participants, one of the best they’ve ever put on.

“It did help that we had a beautiful landscape to travel through of course, but without the participants, they’re the heart and soul of Variety and their hard work fundraising every year fundraising is what makes Variety what it is,” she said.

“It’s great that we’re able to do these events, travel into these communities, see the schools and give back to them.”

The Variety 4WD Adventure is held every 18 months and this year’s event has raised over $325,000 at the time of writing.

Ms Hicks said supporting children is at the heart of everything they do.

“All of our participants this year have been fundraising and that fundraising comes into Variety so that we can make a difference in schools and communities,” she said.

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YJPS School and House Captains wave their chequered flags for the arrival of the Variety 4WD Adventure participants.

Pictures: CALLUM LUDWIG Just like this school where we’ve been able to actually give them a grant for the communication board that’s out in

their playground.”

The communication board from Variety has a variety of pictures and words that are

easy for kids to understand and that they can use to identify how they are feeling so they can better communicate with their fellow students and teachers.

YJPS Principal Lisa Rankin said they feel really lucky to have been the end stop for the event.

“We’re really excited to have them all here because this beautiful group of people have donated an amazing communication board to our school, so as much as the kids are celebrating the four-wheel drives coming today we are also grateful for how they will help our kids with communicating and being able to self-regulate,” she said.

“Variety and what they do for disadvantaged kids and all children is unbelievable, they’ve been able to give their own money to get their four-wheel drive vehicles together, to be able to then raise money and then able to make connections with kids because our kids will talk about this forever,” “There’s an element in education but this reminds you about the joy factor and to make sure that we stop and we celebrate what we can do when we work together for the good of other people.”

YJPS students turned out in droves to welcome the 47 vehicles, with ‘chequered flags’ in hand and plenty of excited chatter and cheers. The Scooby Doo-inspired Mystery Machine and the ‘Aussie Rock’ blasting Aussie-rock hits were particular fan favourites among the convoy. mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

70 years worth celebrating

By Dongyun Kwon Yarra Glen Girl Guides will have its 70th-anniversary celebration on Sunday 26 November.

Yarra Glen Girl Guides leader Heather Dynes said one of her best experiences was the 30th anniversary and she wanted to get the feeling back again on the 70th anniversary.

“We would have had over 100 people here and it was absolutely wonderful. We had a huge party here with everybody coming from the community including Men’s Shed, Lions Club and CFA,” she said.

“That to me is an achievement when the community wanted to be part of guiding.”

Guiding started in Yarra Glen in 1941 with the guides meeting in the local animal produce store in the Yarra Glen Main Street which eventually closed in 1946.

In 1958, the Girl Guides reopened at the Presbyterian hall where the girls once again had meetings.

Afterward, a local lady, Mrs McCracken, offered the Yarra Glen Guides a permanent guide hall at 13 Oliver Street in Yarra Glen.

The guide hall was named after Mrs McCraken and is now called ‘McCracken House’.

Ms Dynes said she always wanted to make the Guides as a family.

“I have watched girls grow up. My biggest achievement was the moment when they’ve got children and they asked if they could bring their children to the Guides,” Ms Dynes said.

“We have a few members who brought their daughters and granddaughters to the guide.”

Many events are run throughout the year on local, state and international levels and the girls learn practical skills, physical development and relationships with people while they are participating in the activities and

Cara and the other girls are drawing a banner to hang up for the anniversary.

Erin Allison (left) and Heather Dynes (right). overcoming challenges.

“We do sailings, canoeings, cavings, horse ridings, campings and lots of other things,” Ms Dynes said.

“Our mission is to empower all girls to become confident, engaged, resilient and responsible community members.”

Senior guide Erin Allison said she liked to

Pictures: DONGYUN KWON get along with girls with different personalities who have the same interests within the Girl Guides.

“I think I learnt how to put in my best effort.

As a leader, I just do what I need to do and everything falls into place from there,” she said.

“It’s amazing to know that we’ve been here for 70 years being a part of the community. And

Ms Dynes (third from the left in the first row) with other members in 1988.

I am so proud of the history we’ve got here.”

Erin will receive the Queens Guide Award, the highest award she could get as a guide, during the 70th-anniversary celebration.

Anyone, wishes to come to the celebration or join the Yarra Glen Girl Guides, is encouraged to contact Ms Dynes at 0409 355 304 or yarralynne@bigpond.com.

Lizzie the Hearing Dog assists a local Lions member

By Callum Ludwig A Wandin North resident has a new companion that does more than just provide her with love and friendship.

Hendy O’Toole, who is also a member of the Lions Club of Croydon-Mooroolbark, has been united with hearing dog Lizzie through the Australian Lions Hearing Dogs (ALHD) initiative.

Hearing Assistance Dog Trainer Ashleigh Moloney spent the week with Lizzie and Ms O’Toole helping them each to settle in and said since 1980, the program has delivered 687 dogs, including Lizzie, around the country.

“Hendy can’t hear when she takes her cochlear implants out, so Lizzie is very important for instance, if the smoke alarm goes off.

Hendy’s not going to hear it, so Lizzie will come up and touch Hendy to let her know that something’s happening,” she said.

“What Lizzie will do is touch and drop to signal danger, to say it’s time to get out of here, whereas all the other sounds in the home, she’ll just touch and lead her back to the sound,” “If it’s a door knock or a doorbell, Lizzie will go and find the source of the sound, then she’ll come back and touch Hendy with one paw, lead her back to the sound and sit and Lizzie can work up to about 10 household sounds.”

The ALHD helps provide hearing assistance dogs free of charge despite costing just under $40,000 to train, deliver and support, all made possible through donations from the public and Lions Clubs across the country.

Ms O’Toole said Lizzie is a lifesaver for her.

“I lost my husband last year so it’s been a long time coming, waiting for a hearing dog and it’s worth waiting for,” she said.

“I first applied back in 2016 but my husband was still alive then and I thought that I wouldn’t really need one while I had my husband home but then he got sick and I was put on the waiting list and have been waiting two years, so it’s a long haul,” “It’ll make people aware that I have got a disability, it’s an unseen disability and no mailcommunity.com.au

L-R: President Wendy Rowles, Hendy O’Toole, Lizzie the hearing dog and Sandy Madigan of the Lions Club of Croydon - Mooroolbark.

Picture: CALLUM LUDWIG matter how often you tell people they can forget.”

One in six Australians suffer from some form of hearing loss according to the Hearing Care Industry Association and it’s expected to rise to one in four by 2050. Severe or profound hearing loss currently affects close to 400,000 Australians.

Ms Moloney said the bedding-in process takes time and that’s why they get the local Lions Clubs involved.

“I spend a week with Hendy transferring Lizzie to work sounds in the home for her be-

cause she’s been at the training centre with me for about six to seven months and then on the fourth or fifth day, we get the local Lions Club involved,” she said.

“What we’ll do is we’ll show them how to set off the sounds, and they’ll come three times a week for the next 12 weeks, then once the 12 weeks is up, we get our program manager to run through the sounds and take them for an outing,” “At that stage, they’ll pass and they’ll get a bright orange colour that says Lizzie’s name and number and she’ll be classed as an official hearing dog.”

The ALHD program is in the midst of obtaining a government grant to expand its training centre so the team can provide 35 dogs a year, up from 31, including medical alert dogs, with eventual hopes to aim for as many as 60 dogs a year.

President of the Lions Club of Croydon Mooroolbark Wendy Rowles said in her eight years as a Lion, this is probably the most rewarding thing that they’ve done.

“We raise money, we run an op shop, but this to me is life-changing for a person and this makes it feel really worth what we’re doing,” she said.

Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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MAIL 15

NEWS

The exhibition takes place from 9 November to 3 December at YAVA Gallery and Arts Hub.

The INterior exhibition has an incredible array of different material usages and ideas.

Beauty of small sculptures

By Dongyun Kwon A small sculpture exhibition has opened for local art lovers at the YAVA Gallery and Arts Hub in Healesville.

The exhibition ‘INterior’, curated by local ceramic artist Ted Secombe with YAVA’s curatorial team, marked its launch on Thursday 9 November.

Ted Secombe said this was his first curatorial job in the YAVA gallery.

“It’s a nice team to be involved with. Two experienced curators were hanging around, guiding and advising. We worked very intimately with all these objects to make sure they work collectively as an exhibition,” he said.

“A great deal of thought is put into position so that they can show their appeal at their absolute best so it’s recognising and celebrating the artist.”

The exhibition has an incredible array of different material usages and ideas.

“It’s an open to interpretation exhibition. So it doesn’t have any confines like you’ll see in many beings,” Secombe said.

The small sculpture exhibition is in association with the Yarra Valley Arts, Yering Station Sculpture Exhibition and Awards 2023 to offer a venue for displaying intimate household interior work.

YAVA Gallery and Arts Hub director Karen Meuleman said INterior was to give people the opportunity to understand more about sculptures before they go to see the big sculptures in a public setting.

“Yarra Valley Arts Yering Station Sculpture Exhibition and Awards is a large-scale sculpture exhibition on the grounds at Yering Station,” she said “Many of the artists, who are exhibiting at Yering Station, also created small sculptures to

Curator Ted Secombe. go in a smaller space. We named this exhibition as INterior because most of these sculptures can go inside.

“So whereas Yering Station is mostly an external exhibition which is in large grounds on a large scale, this [INterior] is a small scale but more relatable to people.”

Curator Ted Secombe is an accomplished ceramic artist.

His interest in pottery was naturally gotten into him as he spent his childhood in Saigon and Hong Kong.

His aspiration for ceramic art was eventually awakened when he came back from a

Pictures: DONGYUN KWON holiday in Europe.

“I studied biochemistry in university and I got a job working biochemistry and I found it was too restricting and confining which did not suit my disposition,” Secombe said.

“I figured I had to work with my nature and my skills. I wanted to find something that fits my personality and that’s why I decided to be an artist.”

Over two decades of hard work, Secombe has been able to be picked up by major collections internationally.

“I’ve had a lot of exhibitions in many coun-

tries including Japan, India and Singapore. I learnt about different ways of art in different places,” Secombe said.

Experienced artist Secombe said he was surprised by the artists of the INterior for their high standard of work.

“INterior is something that the greater community should come and look at because it’s an opportunity to walk amongst worldclass arts,” he said.

The INterior exhibition is on until 3 December from Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm at YAVA Gallery and Arts Hub.

Legacy of billionaire Marc Besen will be remembered

By Dongyun Kwon TarraWarra Estate founder Marc Besen passed away aged 99 on Tuesday 7 November.

TarraWarra Estate general manager Samantha Isherwood said Mr Besen was a very warm and generous man who had a passion for art, vineyard, nature and his experience.

The billionaire came to Australia from Romania in 1947.

After succeeding in his business of a corsetry store Sussan, he and his wife Eva eventually decided to purchase a property in Yarra Valley in 1979.

Mr Besen wanted to build a unique and beautiful place for Australians because he was so grateful to Australia for welcoming him when he first arrived.

Marc and Eva Besen planted their first pinot and chardonnay vineyards in 1983.

The TarraWarra Estate grew up fast and ended up having a museum of art, a cellar door and a restaurant.

Ms Isherwood said both Besens did not take it as a business but as their home and built a house on top of the hill in 1985.

“Mr Besen truly loved Yarra Valley and the community and always wanted TarraWarra to be a place of welcome for all visitors. He 16 MAIL

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

Marc Besen. came to Yarra Valley every week for over 14 years,” she said.

“His love for wine was genuine and he was persuaded to plant his own vines by Dr John Milton who was developing Mount Mary at the time.

“He loved either a glass of champagne or a glass of TarraWarra rose every day.”

TarraWarra Estate founder Eva (left) and Marc Besen (middle).

Pictures: ON FILE mailcommunity.com.au

OPINION

Fire safety is for everyone Do you have a fire plan? It is important that you do and that it covers what you should do in an emergency, including thinking about your kids, your pets, your horses etc. Do you know where your Neighbourhood Safer Places are? Is your fire equipment working? Do you have an evacuation route and know when to go?

It is well known that some areas of our municipality have limited road access in or out, which can be a challenge. Having a plan and thinking ahead around these things will help you should a fire event occur.

The commencement of the fire season in our area is fast approaching. It is therefore time for everyone to prepare their properties and their fire plans to ensure that they are ready for the season ahead.

The outlook for the upcoming summer

The state of

affairs Cindy McLeish MP Member for Eildon period paints a dire picture of a dry hot summer coming. Should this be the case, I hope we do not replicate any of those seasons in the past where fires have ravaged large areas of our landscape. Black Saturday hangs in our memory along with more recent fires in Gippsland. Not to mention the large num-

Art delivers an evening of good live, local theatre The 1812 Theatre Art Serge buys an expensive painting – white lines on a white canvas. To Marc, the painting is a joke. Yvan is on the fence.

1812 Theatre had a great set, on audience right was the painting, six foot by four foo,. The stage was three levels, comprising three picture frames with white interiors.

The lowest frame borders, the other two were silver framed and browned framed, was an old-fashioned type with gold.

On audience right was a two seater couch and on audience left rear was a hanging clear plastic circular chair, next to that was a drink tray.

Serge was played by Nigel Leslie who gave a stunning performance as the man who bought the controversial painting. He was argued by his friend Marc who thought he was crazy to buy such a painting. Marc was well played by Bren Wittingham who gave a good performance as the friend who was a practical man and could not see the relevance of contemporary art.

Their other friend, Yvan, played by Tony Burge, who thought he saw what Serge saw in the painting. Burge gave an outstanding performance as the man who broke down in front of his friends and was on the eve of his wedding which stirred up some touching moments.

A good evening of theatre where the actors had a great rapport, working well with each other and presented well to the audience.

Only one comment, the stage was rather large for a three-hander and your reviewer feels it may have been done in the Bakery@1812.

ber of fires that Queensland just experienced.

Surely that alone is a stark reminder for all of us to act now.

There are many things people should be doing around their homes and properties to prepare and stay safe. Firstly, the all important clean up. Keeping grass short and removing leaves and twigs from areas around you home are critical parts of the regular maintenance regime. Managing trees and branches that are close to your house is also important as is cleaning out your gutters. Gutters are often out of sight and out of mind, so placing them on your ‘to do’ list is critical as this can be a source of fire entry into your home in the event of an ember attack.

Remember also that if you need to burn off around your property, make sure you have

registered by calling 1800 668 511 and that you comply with CFA and Council requirements.

Check the forecast, the fire rating and any restrictions that apply to your area and let your neighbours know.

To find out more about how you can prepare, the CFA website has plenty of resources to assist you. This includes the locations of all neighbourhood Safer Places.

Finally, I would like to continue to acknowledge the tremendous role the CFA volunteers do within our community. Our firefighters’ efforts are second to none. Battling fires and caring for their local communities is selfless work so let’s all help make their jobs a little easier this summer.

CARTOON

Kemp’s curtain call A play with no interval which certainly was not needed.

The Basin Theatre The Sum of Us A windowed father lives with his son and is very supportive of him finding Mr Right, while he in turn is quietly hoping for some female company of his own, the play looks at love in whatever form and the importance of having love regardless of gender, in a person’s life.

We are drawn into the lives of the two main characters through asides directly to the audience, as we witness the jovial banter between father and son along with their internal monologues.

Season: November 23 – December 3.

Burrinja Theatre An afternoon with Maroondah Symphony Orchestra.

Join Burrinja for a captivating afternoon in The Park at Burrinja. Under the guidance of conductor David Keeffe, the Maroondah Symphony Orchestra will serenade you with timeless masterpieces.

Relax amidst nature’s beauty as you enjoy the orchestra’s lush sounds. Lay out your picnic blanket and let the music weave its magic in the open air.

Season: Sunday 3 December at 2pm. Venue: The Park at Burrinja

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Coldstream Post Office Cnr Killara Road and Maroondah Highway Coldstream Supermarket Cnr Killara Road and Maroondah Highway Coldstream Roadrunners Roadhouse Cafe 629 Maroondah Highway Healesville Real Estate Yarra Valley 299 Maroondah Highway Healesville BP Ultimate 66 Maroondah Highway Healesville McKenzie's Tourist Services 13 Old Lilydale Road Healesville Newsagent 195 Maroondah Highway Healesville IGA Supermarket 199 Maroondah Highway Healesville SW Hollis Butcher 209 Maroondah Highway Healesville Sanctuary House Resort Motel 326 Badger Creek Road Healesville Shell Service Station Cnr Harker Street and Maroondah Highway Healesville Coles Supermarket 251 Maroondah Highway Healesville Caltex 370 Maroondah Highway Healesville First National/Mark Gunther 189 Maroondah Highway Healesville Beechworth Bakery 316 Maroondah Highway Launching Place Charlie's Milk Bar 2 Centella Place Launching Place General Store 2200 Warburton Highway Launching Place Caltex Log Cabin Service Station 2000 Warburton Highway Lilydale Shell Service Station 469 Maroondah Highway Lilydale United Petrol Service Station 473 Maroondah Highway

Saltburn is a real thriller Saltburn Starring Barry Keoghan, Jacob Elordi and Alison Oliver MA15+ 4.5/5 The new psychological thriller from Promising Young Woman director Emerald Fennell, Saltburn may be one of the best-looking and bestwritten films of the year.

Oliver (Barry Keoghan), a solitary Oxford student, is invited by his aristocratic new friend Felix (Jacob Elordi) to stay at his country estate, but Oliver has no idea of the bizarre, sordid time in store for him.

Intriguing, hedonistic high art and a great

second feature for Emerald Fennell, Saltburn is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

Warburton Shell Service Station 3458 Warburton Highway Lilydale 7-Eleven Lilydale Cnr Maroondah Highway 7 Cave Hill Road Warburton Professionals Andrew McMath Real Estate 3371 Warburton Highway Lilydale Lilydale Village News Agents Lilydale Village Warburton Bell Real Estate 3407 Warburton Highway Lilydale Coles Supermarket Lilydale Village Wesburn Local Fuel 2835 Warburton Highway Lilydale Lilydale Village Lilydale Village Woori Yallock Foodworks Woori Yellock 1/1585 Warburton Highway Lilydale Lilydale Aged Care 475 Swansea Road Woori Yallock Newsagency & Tattslotto Shop 4/ 1585 Warburton Highway Lilydale BP Service Station 87 Warburton Highway Woori Yallock Hillcrest Little Store Great Food 1745 Warburton Highway Lilydale Eastern Laundries 2/4 Williams Street East Woori Yallock Shell Service Station Foodies 1700 Warburton Highway Millgrove Newsagency Shop 5/ 3043 Warburton Highway Woori Yallock Australia Post LPO Shop 11 / 1585 Warburton Highway, The Centre Millgrove Millgrove Licensed Grocers 3039 Warburton Highway Yarra Glen Ritchies IGA Shop 1/38 Bell Street Millgrove Millgrove Village Bakery 4/3039 Warburton Highway Yarra Glen Caltex Petrol Station 66 Bell Street Seville Woolworths Seville 568 Warburton Highway Yarra Glen Newsagent 32 Bell Street Seville Woolworths Caltex Service Station 568 Warburton Highway Yarra Glen United Garage 6 Bell Street Seville Post Office 634-638 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Woolworths Supermarket 82-84 Warburton Highway Wandin North Fast Fuel Wandin 389-391 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Bottle O 2440 Warburton Highway Wandin North IGA X-Press Wandin North Plus Liquor 388 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Bell Real Estate 2457 Warburton Highway Wandin North Landmark Harcourts Wandin Real Estate 1/362 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Newsagency 2454 Warburton Highway Wandin North Wandin Newsagency Shop 18/2 Union Road Yarra Junction Professionals Andrew McMath Real Estate 2460 Warburton Highway Warburton IGA Supermarket 3465 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Yarra Junction Community Link 2442-2444 Warburton Highway Warburton K G Thomas Ply Ltd Insurance 1/3395 Warburton Highway Yarra Junction Gladysdale Bakehouse 2568 Warburton Hwy Warburton The Valley Bakery Warburton 3415 Warburton Highway Yellingbo Central Store 1942 Healesville-Kooweerup Road

12527817-BL51-21

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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MAIL 17

NEWS

Considering snakes of the poetry kind WOORILLA WORDS

Sarah and Will get ready for the massive Black Friday sale at Aussie Toys.

Season is reason to stock up

By Maria Millers Australia is home to some of the world’s most venomous snakes, with approximately 3000 snake bites occurring per year. The crown for the most dangerous snake in Australia belongs to the Eastern Brown Snake. This snake is thought to be responsible for 60 per cent of all snake bite-related deaths in the country.

With summer just around the corner now is the time when snakes begin to be active. Some reports of local encounters suggest that maybe there is an explosion of snake numbers this year, but speaking to a snake catcher, with an appropriately delicious Dickensian name of Mr Slytherin, I was assured that this was not so.

It’s just that each year we are encroaching more and more into their habitats. ‘They’re moving around, they’re feeding, they’re mating and this is the time when you are most likely to encounter one.’

He also cautioned that most people are bitten when they decide to kill the snake when the right thing to do is to calmly walk away.

Snakes found in homes were best dealt with by professionals So what is it that fills most of us with dread and anxiety at the thought of encountering a snake? In fact anxiety can manifest itself as an irrational fear of snakes, known as ophidiophobia.

Snakes hold diverse cultural symbolism and significance across various cultures around the world. Perception can vary widely, from positive associations to negative ones.

For example, snakes are often associated with lies, evil and temptation.

However, in Ancient Egypt snakes meant rebirth and positive energy; in Ancient Greece and in the Mayan and Aztec culture the snake was benevolent and associated with wisdom.

It also is one of the twelve animals in the Chinese zodiac.

For indigenous Australians the Rainbow Serpent was the divine spirit and creative power believed to be the source of all life Regrettably, our Christian tradition has left us with an atavistic fear of snakes. Perhaps our association of snakes with evil stems from Biblical stories, primarily the serpent in the Garden of Eden Snakes also feature in many works of literature.

Who can forget the mother in Henry Lawson’s The Drover’s Wife, left in isolation with her children and having to cope, on top of all her other problems, with a snake in the house.

The snake represents all the dangers this woman faces: the emotional challenges of her isolation and survival in the Australian bush during that time period. And undoubtedly, she would know a snake bite without the anti venoms now available meant certain death for her children.

The novelist DH Lawrence in his poem Snake explores his reaction to a snake he comes across at a spring while holidaying in Sicily. This beautiful creature does not deserve his initial reaction of fear and revulsion or his act of unwarranted pettiness of throwing a log at the animal as it moves away.

A moment of self reflection makes him realise how conditioned we are about snakes and to question our relationship with nature: And immediately I regretted it I thought how paltry, how vulgar what a mean act!

I despised myself and the voices of my accursed human education.

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The perception of snakes can vary across the globe, from dangerous beings to culturally celebrated.

Picture: UNSPLASH American 19th century poet Emily Dickinson’s poem Snake also uses an encounter with a snake to explore fear and anxiety. Like Lawrence she explores her feelings towards the snake which is not the cordiality she feels towards other creatures and whenever she comes across a snake she can never be Without a tighter breathing, And zero at the bone.

So enjoy our great outdoors and if you do meet A narrow fellow in the grass treat him with caution but also with respect, for he has no plans to harm you only instinct to defend himself if attacked.

By Emily Dickinson A narrow fellow in the grass Occasionally rides; You may have met him,--did you not, His notice sudden is.

The grass divides as with a comb, A spotted shaft is seen;

And then it closes at your feet And opens further on.

He likes a boggy acre, A floor too cool for corn.

Yet when a child, and barefoot, I more than once at morn, Have passed, I thought, a whip-lash Unbraiding in the sun,-When, stooping to secure it, It wrinkled, and was gone.

Several of nature’s people I know, and they know me; I feel for them a transport Of cordiality; But never met this fellow, Attended or alone, Without a tighter breathing, And zero at the bone.

Aussie Toys Online, an independent Australian-owned business, is gearing up for a festive shopping season by announcing a spectacular Black Friday sale, offering customers an opportunity to snag their favourite toys at up to 65 per cent off until 1 December.

Catering to a diverse clientele, Aussie Toys Online has become a household name, especially in regional Australia.

Despite being a small business, it has managed to carve out a niche for itself with a loyal customer base that extends not only across the country but also reaches international destinations, including New Zealand and North America.

“We consider ourselves more than just a business. We’re a family dedicated to providing our customers with an exceptional shopping experience,“ said manager Sarah Thomas.

“Our commitment is to deliver joy and happiness to children and families, and this Black Friday sale is our way of spreading the holiday cheer.“ Known for their extensive collection, Aussie Toys Online boasts a wide range of quality toys, featuring popular brands like Bluey, Goo Jit Zu, The Wiggles, Hey Duggee, Paddington Bear, Octonauts, Thomas and Friends, Akedo, and many more. The selection also includes timeless classics such as Jenga, ensuring there’s something for every child’s taste and preference.

In addition to toys, the company offers a diverse array of products, including costumes, books, and children’s homewares. The comprehensive range makes Aussie Toys Online a one-stopshop for parents and gift-givers, seeking high-quality, entertaining, and educational items for children.

To celebrate the holiday season and give back to its loyal customers, Aussie Toys Online has launched its Black Friday sale, featuring discounts of up to 65 per cent on selected items. The promotion runs until 1 December, providing shoppers with an excellent opportunity to stock up on gifts for the upcoming festive season.

“We understand the importance of making the holiday season special, and our Black Friday sale is designed to make quality toys and gifts more accessible to families.“ For those looking to take advantage of these incredible deals, Aussie Toys Online encourages shoppers to visit the website at aussietoysonline.com. au and explore the diverse product offerings. With stocks limited, customers are advised to act swiftly to secure the best deals on their favourite toys before the sale concludes on 1 December. mailcommunity.com.au

BLACK FRIDAY EVENT S ALE

Up to 60% off On select items while stock lasts. Sale ends 01 Dec 11:59 PM AEDT.

aussietoysonline.com.au

12649959-MS47-23

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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MAIL 19

PUZZLES No. 160

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

1 2 5

5 1

7 9 7

7 3 2

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

5

6

4

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

DOWN

Bliss (8) Thespians (6) Punctuation mark (5) Cancer of the blood-forming tissues (9) Shun (6) Galley (7) Diplomatic representative sent on a mission (8) Mowing tool (6) From the mouth (5) Giving (8) Reproduction (7) Siddhartha Gautama (6) Dangerous aquatic reptile (9) Confined to an area (5) A planet (6) Prison-breakers (8)

1 5 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 20 21 24 27 28 29 30

No. 160

1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 14 16 17 19 22 23 25 26

Wealthy (4) Truce (9) Break violently (5) Small US state (8) In a state of disorder (7) Activeness, effort (coll) (5) Type of steel (9) Male deer (4) Humiliate (9) Dental soreness (9) Hound of Hades (8) Lever setting off a gun (7) Flyer (5) Singing voice (4) Greek letter (5) Additional (4)

DECODER

No. 160

8

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

6

4 4 5

1

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10 11 12 13

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

D

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

K

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

6

17

3

16

9-LETTER WORD

3 easy

medium

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

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

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

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”.

T

Today’s Aim: 14 words: Good 21 words: Very good 28 words: Excellent

O

O

F

S

L K

N

W

4 LETTERS AGES AIRS BEST CARS CYST GETS JIGS JUST NAGS ODES ONUS SECT SELL STEP VICE

flow, flown, flows, folk, fool, fools, fowl, fowls, loft, lofts, look, looks, loon, loos, loot, loots, lost, lows, slot, slow, solo, stool, tool, tools, TOWNSFOLK, wolf, wolfs, wool

2

2

15

4 1 5 3 7 6

2 4 4 5 8 2

3 LETTERS ADO AMP ARE ASH AVO BEE CPA DEN EAR ELM ERR HEW HUE ICE NEE NOR ODE OVA PAL PAS RUG UTE VIA

14

9 8 6

X J H U M L R B E V F D K

7

2

WP Q T I O G Y C A N S Z

9

WORDFIT

No. 160

$ 9 ( 5 7

5 LETTERS ALIBI ANVIL AUDIT AVERT BLAST BLUER BUTTE CALVE CHEAT CHEFS DEEDS DELVE DONOR DROSS EASED EBBED EDGES EMITS ENSUE EVENT FONTS

GOUGE GREET HOIST INANE IVORY MATTE MEANT MERGE NAILS NEVER NOTES NULLA REUSE SCENT SODAS STEAL STEEL STUDY STUMP SWELL TIRES TORSO

NURTURE OUTLIVE

TREES TYING VASTS 6 LETTERS DAPPER EERIER MOOTED ROAMED 7 LETTERS COMFORT CREMATE EDUCATE MUSTARD

8 LETTERS ARMOURED DOMESTIC FISHIEST THRILLER 11 LETTERS COMMISERATE VACATIONING

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

SUDOKU

24-11-23

This week’s crossword proudly sponsored by

The Heritage Family

HERITAGE & HERITAGE FUNERALS Lilydale 9739 7799 Healesville 5962 1600 HERITAGE PIONEERS CHAPEL 1414 Healesville/Koo Wee Rup Road, Woori Yallock 5964 6500 Head Office: 733 Boronia Road, Wantirna 9800 3000 info@ heritagefunerals.com.au www.heritagefunerals.com.au 1157336-CB40-14

20 MAIL

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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PROPERTY

TIMELESS ELEGANCE mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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MAIL 21

PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

TIMELESS ELEGANCE SECLUDED in a private setting is this stunningly curated country home, exuding an idyllic picture perfect lifestyle.

The spacious one-acre estate is a veritable showcase of both grandeur and beauty, from the double story gabled roof to the wrap around verandah and sprawling lush lawns. There is no mistaking the absolute tranquility that envelopes you at every turn.

The floorplan provides for spacious living with a formal lounge, complete with gas log fire, bay windows, and garden views. The open concept kitchen, dining, and secondary living room creates a welcoming and open space for family connectedness.

The kitchen is well equipped with modern facilities, copious storage, a stunning large island bench, and hidden butler’s pantry.

On the ground floor, you’ll find three bedrooms, each thoughtfully equipped with built-in robes and garden views.

One of these bedrooms offers the added convenience of a private ensuite, and another could be utilised as an office. A centrally located bathroom services the ground floor, whilst the home is kept ambient year-round with ducted heating and cooling.

Upstairs, there are two more bedrooms, featuring the luxuriously spacious main bedroom showcasing the striking pitched roofline, a lavish ensuite complete with a claw-foot bath, and a walk-in robe that’s sure

to inspire envy.

The landing creates a gorgeous reading nook, perfect to lose yourself in a novel or gaze out at the breathtaking mountain views.

Outside, the wrap around verandah seamlessly connects you to every facet of this remarkable home. Extending from the front entrance, circling around to the patio leading to the spacious undercover entertaining area, creating a harmonious blend between the indoor and outdoor living spaces.

Meticulously manicured gardens embrace the home offering height, colour, and variety as the seasons flow. Enjoy harvesting an array of seasonal fruits and vegetables from the established garden beds and trees. The cubby house is a sanctuary for endless hours of play. Storage needs are expertly catered to with multiple sheds, a workshop, a garage, and a side carport at your disposal.

This exquisite country home truly offers the complete package! Situated in proximity to primary schools, the Warburton Rail Trail, Wesburn village shops, the proposed Wesburn Bike Riding Hub and just a short drive to the bustling township of Yarra Junction, you’ll enjoy the perfect blend of privacy and a vibrant community – This property is also the perfect candidate for a B&B (STCA). contact our dedicated team today at 5967 1800. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 3 Balmoral Avenue, WESBURN Description: 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 5 garage Price: $1,300,000 - $1,400,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Ashleigh Hall 5967 1800, PROFESSIONALS YARRA VALLEY 22 MAIL

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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HOME FOCUS

SPACIOUS FAMILY LIVING AT ITS VERY BEST OVERLOOKING a fantastic backdrop of the Upwey Valley, this stunning home boasts an overwhelming amount of indoor and outdoor living.

With three spacious bedrooms, the main bedroom with oversized ensuite that includes a luxurious spa bath plus a home office space that has external access into the double carport, this home is perfect for any buyer.

With a full wall of North facing floor to ceiling windows, the combined family room and dining area is flooded with natural light and has a striking effect on the entire home.

Access to both the front and rear undercover decking’s is easy and allows for great entertaining all year round. For those colder nights, the large lounge room at the rear of the home boasts an open fireplace as well as magnificent timber raked ceilings and a

beautiful brick feature wall – This is the ideal floorplan for those looking for multiple living spaces.

Recently revamped, the kitchen looks striking with its navy blue cupboards and is highlighted by a 900ml upright stove, utility cupboard, double sink and also a breakfast bar. Ducted heating runs throughout and a split system has been added for heating and cooling options.

Outside, the 930m2 block is fully useable and fenced for kids and pets to play safely.

Solar panels, a garden shed, extra storage area in the carport and multiple parking bays have been included to make this the perfect package.

An amazing opportunity to purchase an outstanding home in a highly sought after Upwey address – This property could soon be yours. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 1 Hume Street, UPWEY Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $810,000 - $890,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442 or Jess Lainis 0493 544 981, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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MAIL 23

HOME FOCUS

HORSE LOVERS PARADISE ON AROUND 14 ACRES EXPERIENCE the ultimate horse lovers paradise on this 14 acre approx property.

The beautiful light filled 3 bedroom home features a modern kitchen and a spacious living area that connects to an amazing outdoor entertaining space, where you can look out over the stunning mountain views.

Your storage needs are met with a lockup garage, double carport and plenty of shedding including a large 15 x 8m storage shed. In addition, you’ll find a 1 bedroom studio with kitchenette and bathroom and a 2 room bungalow/sleepout ideal for teenagers or home office space. Horse

enthusiasts will be delighted by the two stables, tack room, and feed shed, all set against near-level, usable land with fenced paddocks and lush established gardens.

Enjoy the dam on the property and take advantage of the ideal location, close to the township of Yarra Junction and the Warburton Rail Trail walking track which is perfect for horse riding or leisurely strolls.

This property encapsulates the perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty, making it a true paradise. Inspections by appointment only, contact 5967 1800 to view this beautiful property. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 65 Lowes Road, YARRA JUNCTION Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 5 garage Price: $1,400,000 - $1,500,000 Contact: Ashleigh Hall 5967 1800, PROFESSIONALS YARRA VALLEY 24 MAIL

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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FOR SALE

A3 B2 D2

FOR SALE

Timberbelle Place, Yarra Junction • Brand new premiere land release.

• Comprises 13 generously sized vacant lots from 569sqm to 915 sqm.

• All services provided including NBN. • This address will be an enviable location. Wide streets & feature stone walls create a feeling of elegance & sophistication.

FOR SALE $380,000 - $440,000 LAND 569sqm - 915 sqm (Approx.)

INSPECT See website for available times

A4 B2 D2

FOR SALE 1885 Don Road, Don Valley • Nestled in a serene setting, it’s a perfect match for families & new homeowners.

• Featuring a lounge, kitchen, dining area & an updated bathroom.

• The cottage offers a substantial rear deck, opening possibilities for expansion (STCA).

• Located close to the Don River and local Primary School.

FOR SALE $630,000 - $690,000 LAND 1418 sqm (Approx.)

INSPECT See website for available times

A4 B3 D6

FOR SALE 2 Elvian Road, Woori Yallock • Entertainer’s kitchen with a lovely view of the dining & family areas, equipped with a gas log fire & a split system.

• The backyard is a haven for pets & children, with a sandpit & cubby house.

• Separate fenced area, ideal for chickens or as a dog run.

• Equipped with solar panels, ensuring energy efficiency.

FOR SALE $1,080,000 - $1,180,000 LAND 2224 sqm (Approx.)

INSPECT See website for available times

A6 B5 D1

FOR SALE 33 Blackwood Avenue, Warburton • Traditional period features including high ceilings, decorative cornices, ceiling roses, stained glass windows & doors, light fittings, & wallpaper throughout.

• A detached cottage offers a spacious living area, two bedrooms, & an ensuite bathroom.

• Well-established garden with interconnected rainwater tanks complete with a pump.

22 Patricia Street, Millgrove • Positioned at the end of a cul-de-sac, adjacent to bushland with mountain views.

• Elegantly renovated family home.

• The kitchen & dining areas are well planned for optimal space.

• A spacious backyard provides a play area, while a carport adds practicality & vehicle protection.

FOR SALE $570,000 - $620,000 LAND 665 sqm (Approx.)

INSPECT See website for available times

A4 B1

FOR SALE 3 Hacketts Creek Road, Three Bridges • Enjoy a spacious living area in this family-oriented home.

• Country kitchen with a magnificent timber countertop.

• Log cabin, ranch-style home overlooking lush rainforest sitting adjacent to the serene Hacketts Creek.

• Separate, fully-insulated studio.

• Incredible lifestyle opportunity!

FOR SALE $690,000 - $750,000 LAND 3961 sqm (Approx.)

INSPECT See website for available times

A 3 B 2 D 10

FOR SALE 305 Station Road, Wesburn • Beautiful timber pitched ceilings, slate flooring throughout the main living areas, & breathtaking views.

• Inground pool sets the scene for summers • Mostly cleared, well fenced land, with a portion of bushland toward the hills.

• Sprawling lake with jetty, a dam & established sheds of various sizes.

FOR SALE $2,200,000 LAND 39.99 Acres (Approx.)

INSPECT See website for available times

A3 B2 D6

FOR SALE

FOR SALE $1,200,000 - $1,300,000 LAND 1.09 Acres (Approx.)

INSPECT See website for available times

20 Daveys Lane, Hoddles Creek

Chris Lord Sales Manager

Jadie Grayling Sales Consultant

• Pristine natural beauty featuring high-quality pastures.

• 4meg water licence.

• Gardens are serviced by a reticulated sprinkler system.

• Original double brick ranch style home with wrap around verandah.

• Diverse array of mature fruit trees & chicken houses for sustainable living.

FOR SALE $1,280,000 - $1,380,000 LAND 9.47 Acres (Approx.)

INSPECT See website for available times

Professionals Yarra Valley Yarra Junction 5967 1800 Warburton 5966 2800 mcmath.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

Ashleigh Hall Director

Matthew Devisser Sales Consultant

Jean Ting Sales Consultant

Leanne Chapman Sales Consultant

Lyndal McMath Hall Melinda Darwall Kristen Johnson Teonii Hoy-Fooks Licenced Estate Agent Licenced Estate Agent Photographer & Concierge Client Services

Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

Erin Mithen Client Services

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MAIL 25

HOME FOCUS

THE ULTIMATE SUMMER ESCAPE AS the warm, sun-soaked days of summer approach, the search for the perfect home becomes more enticing than ever. If you’re in pursuit of a tranquil haven where you can bask in the beauty of nature while entertaining in style, look no further.

This private paradise, nestled amidst a serene tree-lined setting, offers a sprawling split-level design with multiple living zones, with the large dining area opposite the stunning hostess kitchen, being the standout feature to the home, functional and stylish with stone benchtops that add a touch of sophistication. This kitchen which is well-equipped to handle the demands of family gatherings or for entertaining your guests.

The master bedroom overlooks the property and has a walk-in robe and modern ensuite whilst the remaining bedrooms are serviced by a contemporary bathroom with shower and bath.

The generous size lounge has a wood fire for the colder months as well as ducted heating and refrigerated cooling throughout the home.

Access to the covered deck is from the family room which overlooks the stunning solar heated inground heated pool and spa perfect for year-round enjoyment and has a poolside toilet and vanity for convenience.

Additional features include: new modern laundry with wall-to-wall cupboards, 10 kilowatt solar panels, monitored security system, remote controlled double garage plus workshop, plus an additional workshop or storage area under the deck, the block is fully fenced.

Imagine waking up every morning to the picturesque view in this private location which offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and yet is only moments from Belgrave Central with its bustling shops, cafes, schools and train station and a short drive will take you onto Wellington Road for those that need to commute to the city.

As the warm, sun-soaked days of summer approach, the search for the perfect home becomes more enticing than ever. If you’re in pursuit of a tranquil haven where you can bask in the beauty of nature while entertaining in style, look no further.

This private paradise, nestled amidst a serene tree-lined setting, offers a sprawling split-level design with multiple living zones, with the large dining area opposite the stunning hostess kitchen, being the standout feature to the home, functional and stylish with stone benchtops that add a touch of sophistication, this kitchen which is well-equipped to handle the demands of family gatherings or for entertaining your guests.

The master bedroom overlooks the property and has a walk-in robe and modern ensuite whilst the remaining bedrooms are serviced by a contemporary bathroom with shower and bath. The generous size lounge

has a wood fire for the colder months as well as ducted heating and refrigerated cooling throughout the home. Access to the covered deck is from the family room which overlooks the stunning solar heated inground heated pool and spa perfect for year-round enjoyment and has a poolside toilet and vanity for convenience.

Additional features include: new modern laundry with wall-to-wall cupboards, 10 kilowatt solar panels, monitored security system, remote controlled double garage plus workshop, plus an additional workshop or storage area under the deck, the block is fully fenced.

Imagine waking up every morning to the

picturesque view in this private location which offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and yet is only moments from Belgrave Central with its bustling shops, cafes, schools and train station and a short drive will take you onto Wellington Road for those that need to commute to the city. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 121 Belgrave-Hallam Road, BELGRAVE SOUTH Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,050,000 - $1,155,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Jan Brewster 0409 558 805, RANGES FIRST NATIONAL - 9754 6111 26 MAIL

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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Ranges COUNTRY ESCAPE ON 24ACRES

THE ULTIMATE SUMMER ESCAPE

PAKENHAM UPPER 120 MANN ROAD COURT SUNSETS AND VIEWS!

$1,150,000-$1,250,000 4A 2B 3C

Classic farmhouse with charm from the 1950s perched at the top of the hill with stunning sunsets & views. The home offers open plan living, lounge with a wood heater, separate meals area, recently painted & newly carpeted, 5 paddocks, 3 bay barn with attached side carport & additional undercover storage, 2 shipping containers, beautiful mostly cleared land except for trees along the creek lines. Great for those that want to escape the rat race with the potential of being ‘off-grid,’ with tank water, bottled gas & septic.

Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522

We put you first

Erin Davies 0493 136 937

BELGRAVE STH 121 BELGRAvE-GEMBROOk RD YOUR DREAM HOME AWAITS

Jan Brewster 0409 558 805

LIvE THE GOOD LIFE ON 9 ACRES

BELGRAVE SOUTH 146 BELGRAvE-HALLAM ROAD PANORAMIC VIEWS

GEMBROOK 387 MT EIRENE ROAD AUCTION 25/11/23 AT 11AM (IF NOT SOLD PRIOR)

This exceptional block of 1543sqm offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a tranquil yet convenient lifestyle on a sunny usable block. With its panoramic views of Cardinia Dam & close proximity to shops & schools, and with the added advantage of rear access from Deviation Road, it gives flexibility for entry and exit, which can be valuable for any construction or development project. This block of land has all essential services such as water, electricity & sewage readily available, reducing the hassle of infrastructure setup.

Jan Brewster 0409 558 805

9754 6111

rangesfn.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

3A 2B 2C

This private paradise, nestled amidst a serene tree-lined setting, offers a sprawling splitlevel design with multiple living zones & features a stunning hostess kitchen, wood fire, ducted heating and refrigerated cooling, a covered deck overlooking the stunning solar heated inground pool & spa. Additional features include: new modern laundry, 10-kilowatt solar panels, monitored security system, remote-controlled double garage plus workshop, additional workshop or storage area under the deck, and is fully fenced.

EXCEPTIONAL LAND WITH PLANNING PERMIT

$750,000-$820,000

$1,050,000-$1,155,000

$935,000-$975,000 5A 2B 4C

If you have been dreaming of that acreage hobby farm, this could be the ONE! Gently sloping pasture with two dams- one is a spring fed swimming hole with a backdrop of ferns & natural bushland with plenty of room for the family to run free. The home offers two living areas, two ensuite bathrooms, a huge covered outdoor deck, a combustion wood heater, two split systems, a large chicken/duck pen, a loop driveway with ample extra parking for all your ‘toys’, a single carport by the house and a triple Colorbond garage.

Grant Skipsey 0418 528 102

‘We Put You First’

1660 Burwood Highway, Belgrave Shop 2/24 McBride St, Cockatoo Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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MAIL 27

HOME FOCUS

GREAT SIZE BLOCK AND UNBEATABLE LOCATION THIS well maintained four-bedroom home boasts three bathrooms and two living areas.

Positioned within 50 meters of the local school, it offers a spacious combined lounge and dining area, a rumpus room with sliding doors that open onto a secluded deck, a well-appointed kitchen with lots of bench space, and 3 bathrooms.

Entertaining will be a breeze for the weekend chef with a super large deck equipped with a built-in barbecue and outdoor kitchen cabinets. The property sits on an approximately half-acre nearly

flat block, convenient car access to the backyard, through a garage and featuring a further 3 car garage with roller door, plus 2 carports providing abundant storage and many parking options for all the family vehicles.

Creature comforts are all covered with ceiling fans throughout, gas ducted heating, split system, a cosy wood heater and solar panels.

This is the home for those seeking a big home on a larger than average block with loads of room - all set in a super convenient location. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 13 Carter Street, LAUNCHING PLACE Description: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 6 garage Price: $810,000 - $890,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Leah Bannerman 0448 924 266, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION, 5967 1277

OVER 10 ACRES OF YARRA VALLEY BLISS NESTLED at the end of a tree lined driveway stands a beautifully established barn-style home that offers potential buyers an inviting family-oriented living environment. Situated on a beautiful 10 acres of land, boasting 4 bedrooms, a home office, and an impressive 5 living spaces, the choices are entirely yours to make. An array of features that capture attention include grand beams, distinctive wooden doors, an exterior crafted from mud brick and character timber cladding.

An entertaining bar and pool room area showcases a servery window equipped with an electric shutter door, complemented by a draft beer system and sink. This space effortlessly flows out to a deck area housing a pizza oven, a built-in BBQ, a dining table, and comfortable lounge seating — just paradise.

The impeccable kitchen offers a substantial stove catering to aspiring chefs, plenty of cupboard storage ensures organizational ease, and a breakfast island enhances the already generouscounter space.

There is so much in this property to be desired, an inviting open fire with a stone fireplace gracing the formal lounge, a separate wood heater in the living room, and ducted heating and cooling throughout the entire residence.

Externally, this acreage property boasts excellent infrastructure, a 4-car carport attached to the main house and two sizable sheds boasting concrete floors and ample clearance, ideal for accommodating vehicles, equipment, and recreational toys.

Completing the property are 4 fenced paddocks, suitable for hobby farming and horses if your heart desires. Located only minutes walk to the highway giving easy access to public transport, school bus route, shops and local primary school, kinder and creche. This remarkable property offers features that are too numerous to detail here — seeing in person is the only way to truly appreciate its appeal. Don’t miss out on this Yarra Valley lifestyle opportunity. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 36 Elvian Road, WOORI YALLOCK Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 9 garage Price: $1,590,000 - $1,740,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Leah Bannerman 0448 924 266, BELL REAL ESTATE - YARRA JUNCTION, 5967 1277 28 MAIL

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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P 5966 2530

3407 Warburton Highway, Warburton

10 York Street, Warburton

$655,000-$705,000

49 Timberline Road, Launching Place

P 5967 1277

2457 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction

$650,000-$695,000

Unique Warburton opportunity with 2 titles!

Private Haven with lovely views

A super large block over 1600sqm, an existing home plus a second title set amongst majestic Mountain Ash trees and nature at its finest. Comprising of 3 bedrooms this log cabin complete with cozy open fire is just begging you to bring it back to its glory and make it shine again! With 2 street frontages, the comfort of modern services, the Aqueduct trail only around the corner, Warburton township only minutes drive away and abundance of recreational options including, hiking, mountain bike riding, fishing, kayaking, rafting and don’t forget the iconic Yarra River and Rail Trail this extremely rare opportunity won’t last long! Warburton is soon going to be hosting the mountain bike hub with significant investment being made in the area by both state and federal government, call now and be a part of the exciting future of Warburton!

A pretty home with terracotta tiled roof entices you into the property and to enjoy what enfolds before you. The double story home offers something a little different. Downstairs you have a lovely open plan kitchen, meals and living zone, which opens through sliding doors to the large entertainment deck. The spacious kitchen is modern and has a lovely vista to the rear of the property, providing excellent storage and preparation bench. Sleeping accommodation consists of 3 good sized bedrooms all with built in robes and enjoy the loveliest views from the picture windows to wake up to. The bedrooms are all serviced by a newly updated bathroom with single vanity, bath to soak in after a day in the garden, shower and toilets upstairs and downstairs are a bonus.The double lock up garage is position perfect so that you can just drive on in and access the house undercover.

Leah Bannerman M 0448 924 266 Inspection: Sat 11.00-11.30am

7 Anthony Grove, Woori Yallock

3

A

1

B

$550,000-$600,000

Samantha Price M 0438 795 190 Inspection: Sat 3.00-3.30pm

26 Surrey Road, Warburton

3

A

1

B 2 C

$600,000-$660,000

Views, Glorious Views!

Tranquil setting on Surrey

This 3-bedroom home enjoys the most glorious panoramic view across the valley.

Located just a few minutes’ walk to one of the premium picturesque stretches of the Warburton Trail as well as all the local shops, schools and public transport. Great value buying in this property that boasts a full length deck to the front to enjoy the northerly view as well as a large deck at the rear for entertaining. Inside you’ll find a renovated bathroom, living room with sliding door to the front deck and a conveniently located kitchen and meals area with easy access to the rear entertaining zone. 2 of the 3 bedrooms enjoy sliding doors to the front deck, so you can lie in bed at night, with the doors open and enjoy the breeze and the stars above. This home has so much wow to offer and would be a wonderful starter for first home buyers! Get into the market now!

A lovely property is on offer at this fabulous sought-after Surrey Road address. Sitting on approx.

1090m2 with age old Elms and beautiful plantings consisting of edibles and loads of bursting colour, there are many treasures to be discovered.The main house is a quirky 60’s residence with hardwood flooring, a vintage kitchen with electric cooking, and a great living space that has a feature central wood fire and a dining that opens to a beautiful outdoor deck with majestic mountain views. The bathroom is a treat with feature tiling and the bonuses continue with a recently installed solar system with battery storage and water tanks in addition to mains. Outdoors offers an abundance of joy, with a stunning hexagonal studio with windows sourced from age old Victorian inner Melbourne homes, making this space a perfect spot to work, play or meditate. With loads more to explore upon

Samantha Price M 0438 795 190 Inspection: Sat 9.00-9.30am

3

A

1

B

Samantha Price M 0438 795 190 Inspection: Sat 2.00-2.30pm

3

A

1

B 2 C

bellrealestate.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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MAIL 29

HOME FOCUS

THE PERFECT PROPERTY PACKAGE OFFERING the perfect package, 196 Mt Morton Road boasts a meticulously maintained property both inside and out.

This well-built 3 bedroom home comes complete with large lounge, separate dining area, classic kitchen with great cupboard space and a beautifully updated main bathroom.

Along with slimline blinds and curtains, there is ducted heating throughout as well as split system heating/cooling with makes for convenient temperature control all year round. Flooded with natural sunlight, there is a stunning garden view from every window taking in the colourful native garden and mature plants that are a wonderful feature of this property.

For those who like to entertain, you will love the undercover alfresco area that is large enough to cater for the biggest of parties or simply enjoy eating outdoors during the warmer months.

The outdoor fireplace is a beautiful addition, giving a real focus point to this outdoor living space.

Another excellent feature is the dual road access and parking – One being a double car parking bay off Mt Morton Road and also an oversized brick garage with workshop area that has access via Osborne Avenue.

This is ideal for tradies or hobby enthusiasts who need to keep their trucks, trailers or toys separate.

Impeccable from start to finish, this is without doubt the perfect property package. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 196 Mt Morton Road, BELGRAVE HEIGHTS Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 garage Price: $795,000 - $870,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Sharyn Chandler 0439 882 442 or Jess Lainis 0493 544 981, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 30 MAIL

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Tuesday, 21 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

31 Mahony Street, UPWEY

$980,000- $1,050,000 4A2B1C

CHARACTER HOME IN CONVENIENT POSITION

FOR SALE

$690,000 - $760,000

7 Peters Road, BELGRAVE

3A2B2C

MODERN DELIGHT ON THE FORESTS EDGE

Walk to Upwey township from your own wonderful Hills property that is picturesque both inside and out. Filled with character and quality and framed by a beautiful 968sqm (approx.) allotment with level gardens and ample off-street parking, a family-friendly way of life awaits.

Overlooking a lush, green forest backdrop that takes in stunning trees, ferns and all the local birdlife you could ever hope for, this character filled family home is only minutes from Belgrave Main Street, train station and local schools yet a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

With a split level design and boasting stunning timber lined, raked ceilings, this really is the magical tree house you have been searching for.

Brad Conder

Rachel Eastwood

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

M 0401 117 761 | E rachel@chandlerandco.com.au

Daniel Steen

Sharyn Chandler

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

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

FOR SALE

2A Kumbada Avenue, UPWEY

$550,000 - $590,000

FOR SALE

$695,000 – $765,000

34 Thompson Road, UPWEY

NEAR-FLAT BLOCK WITH APPROVED PLANS IN PRIME LOCATION!

YOUR PEACEFUL HILLS LIFESTYLE STARTS HERE!

So rarely found in Upwey, with approved plans this flat front block (500m2 approx) located on a quiet street walking distance to Upwey Main Street provides one lucky purchaser the chance to build their brand new dream home (Subject To Council Approval).

Overlooking a peaceful half acre of land with a trickling creek and a beautiful array of colourful birdlife that flitter by, this three bedroom, split level cedar home will enchant you with its beautiful location and stunning scenery. Within an easy walk to Upwey’s Main Street, train station and local schools, this property is the perfect Hills escape where you can enjoy nature at its very best along with the convenience of being close to all local amenities.

Brad Conder

Sharyn Chandler

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

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

Daniel Steen

Jess Lainis

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

M 0493 544 981 | E jess@chandlerandco.com.au

3A2B1C

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

Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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MAIL 31

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mailcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Oh so close to double ton

By Bryce Edwards Wandin 1st XI vs Mt Evelyn - by David Thorne Wandin’s 1st XI hosted Mt Evelyn’s 2nd XI in a two-dayer at Wandin.

Wandin’s captain David Thorne won the toss and chose to bat.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t Wandin’s day with the bat with Mt Evelyn bowling well and Wandin only reaching 105 off 40 overs.

David Thorne (26) Jamie Oakley (18*) Tim Thorne (16) With Wandin being bowled out early, Mt Evelyn would bat well with the Wandin bowlers struggling to stop the runs and Mt Evelyn finishing the day in 2/92.

Wandin 2nd XI v Healesville 2nd XI - by Rick Painter Wandin would travel to Healesville in perfect conditions for cricket with Healesville winning the toss and electing to bowl first. Wandin’s innings started steadily with a 66-run partnership before the wicket of D Marshall for 32.

Another partnership of 60 between R Vallence and B Edwards would consolidate a good start and after 40 overs the score would be 3/155.

After the tea break, the partnership would continue with Edwards holding up an end and 40+ run partnerships with D Trembath and then with young Jack Dowithwaite (35). B Edwards would get his 100 and keep the scoreboard ticking over and with the score on 5/225 and 22 overs to go Edwards would partner with R Painter and together they would pile on 125 runs in the next 15 overs before Painter was dismissed for 53 and the score on 6/350.

With B Edwards now on 170 the focus would soon be on whether he could achieve a double ton but he would be the last wicket to fall just agonisingly short on 198 but having guided his team to 10/411.

Wandin 3rd XI vs Hoddles Creek 2nd XI - by

‘The Don’ and/or Patty Laws A great all-round team effort saw Wandin bowl out Hoddles for 171 on a quick ground with all players pulling their weight and sharp in the field. In reply, Gordo and Tom got Wandin off to a quick start 1-53 after 8. With the Dogs in the driver’s seat, the Wombats fought back to have them 3-86 before Lawsy and Jules got the Dogs to 5-137. Again the Wombats counter-attacked with young Robbo standing up and hanging around to get Wandin to 8-155 and a close finish on the table. A tense few overs with young Eman keeping out an all-Wombats bowling attack and Mark getting Wandin over the line with a few balls to spare as the Dogs took the points in a game that see-sawed all day. Congrats to young Kai on his first senior wicket.

Wandin Women’s vs Bayswater - by Charlotte Edwards Wandin Women’s team took on a previous Bgrade team at Bayswater this week. After the high of last week’s win, Wandin knew they were more than capable of getting the win this week.

Wandin took the field to bat first, and Charlotte Edwards and Jacquie Lowrie opened the batting. Wandin were off to a good start with fours being hit and good running between the wickets until unfortunately, Edwards was dismissed on 13 runs after a very close LBW call.

A highlight of the batting innings was skipper

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Olivia Edwards making a very impressive 51*, what a way to make your first 50. Edwards batted exceptionally all innings and this milestone was a deserved reward for all her hard work. Another highlight was Lowrie batting through the innings until the 18th over. Jacquie played a vital role in this innings as her running between the wickets and constant work kept Wandin’s score ticking over, Lowrie finished on a very handy 12 runs. Wandin ended the innings on 110 runs and was ready to defend this total.

Opening bowlers Olivia Edwards and Keeli Friend worked hard with the ball and kept their opening battings to a low total. Edward finished up with the ball on an amazing 2/4 off 3. Wandin were sharp in the field and tight with the bowl making it very hard for Bayswater to chase down their runs. Charlotte Edwards took the bowled and ended her overs on 2/8 off 4 alongside Tangi Clancy who balled competitively throughout her overs including a chance at hat-trick ball before she finished her overs on 2/4 off 2. Wandin’s constant hard work with the bat and ball paid off as at the end of the 20th over Bayswater was kept to only 59 runs.

Wandin got the win. It was an amazing day of cricket for all of the girls and was a true show of all the hard work they had been putting in.

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MAIL 33

SPORT

Skating to new heights

By Callum Ludwig A budding ice hockey star hailing from Launching Place is aiming for the top and wants to see the path made easier for others to join her.

Makayla Peers is in the midst of starring for the Melbourne Ice in the 2023-24 Australian Women’s Ice Hockey League season, having already claimed the Best Goaltender award and the championship title aged only 18 last season.

Peers said she only started playing ice hockey at the age of 12, having previously played inline hockey locally in Lilydale.

“At my local inline hockey club, one of the members sponsored the Melbourne Ice Men’s Team and once a year when the men’s season ended he would bring down some of the players from the men’s team and one of them happened to be the Melbourne Ice Women’s Hockey coach,” she said.

“We spoke about it consecutively for a few years, he would come down and continue to see my development and growth and he convinced my mum and dad to let me try ice hockey.”

Peers was shutting out the opposition last summer, averaging a miserly 1.56 goals against per game while maintaining a 93.6 per cent save percentage, both the best figures leaguewide.

Peers said playing the goaltender position is completely different between inline and ice hockey.

“The skating pattern is very different and the pucks are a lot harder, they’re made of rubber instead of plastic so when I was playing with the bigger boys, the shots once they got through puberty and were starting to bulk up were definitely a big issue,” she said.

“More than anything that was hard was the distance, I live in Launching Place so the closest rink is an hour and 15 minutes away so the travel was definitely a big change as well,” “But I’ve always been passionate about the sport and the family culture that I think especially with the Melbourne Ice, the team I currently play with, we’re like one big happy family. And I know I could literally call on anyone

A stellar save from Launching Place’s Makayla Peers while in action for Melbourne Ice. Pictures: PHIL TAYLOR if I need to.”

Balancing her university studies and two part-time jobs is all part of the parcel for Peers, with ice hockey a pay-to-play sport, even at the state level, for women.

Peers said it was challenging at times.

“The men don’t get paid to play, but they don’t have to pay to travel. Unfortunately, when it comes to the women’s, we don’t fill the rink the same just yet, we don’t get the spectators, but we also don’t have as many sponsors,” she said.

“This year for myself and the rest of my team we had to pay $3500 if we wanted to compete, so we’re trying to bring in more crowds and sponsors, but unfortunately it’s a work in progress which just takes time, hopefully, one day the gap will get a little bit smaller so we don’t have to pay as much to play as what we do love.”

The $3500 fee doesn’t cover the cost of trav-

Win, loss and a nail-biter

By Garry Lewis A mixed bag of results for the Warburton Bowls Club this week with the focus on continuing to improve across all teams.

The weekend Warburton 1 side returned to some excellent winning form while playing Monbulk 1 at home. All four rinks were victorious in a strong overall performance from the Burras winning 100 shots to 57.

Rink scores were as follows: S. Lord 33/ 13; T. Appleton 27/ 12; C. Neale 24/ 18 and C. Lord 16/ 14.

The Burras top side looks forward to continuing their improvement against Ferntree Gully 1 at home this week.

Warburton 2 played Croydon 3 away and were quick out of the blocks in the first few ends before the home side steadied and gained overall control.

At the break, the Burras were determined to reduce the deficit and tried extremely hard but the gap proved too big before going down 63 shots to 92.

Rink scores were G. Lewis 18/ 18; P. Summers 11/ 28; F. Wagenaar 14/ 24 and M. Reynolds 20/ 22.

They too look forward to the challenge of playing against Heathmont 4 away this weekend.

Playing away on the slick green at Monbulk, the Midweek side battled valiantly. After trailing for most of the game, the Burras fought back with a couple of big ends. It all came down to the last end with Monbulk 1 holding on for a one-shot victory. The Burras won two rinks and lost the other before going down, 57 shots to 58.

Rink scores were as follows: S. Lord 18/ 10; G. Walsh 18/ 31 and R. McKail 21/ 17.

They now face Yarra Glen 1 at home this week hoping to get back on the winning list.

34 MAIL

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

elling to train or purchase new gear, with Peers having had to spend $1500 on two custom gloves to fit her hands, $900 at the start of the year on two hockey sticks and a further $450 recently on some new kindle-quality skates.

Peers said reducing the cost barrier for aspiring young players over time was really important.

“Obviously the women at the moment aren’t bringing in as big of a crowd per se as the men’s are, but we’ve just seen that with the Matildas that they filled a whole stadium and the NHL, which is probably one of the biggest hockey leagues in the world, the women’s equivalent has just expanded their league,” she said.

“Passion is something you can’t buy, but it’s the money factor that does deter people and I think in order to continue growing the sport, with ice hockey being a niche sport in this country, it’s really important to help reduce the gap between the men and the women playing

Launching Place’s ice hockey starlet Makayla Peers. the sport.”

In September this year, the National Hockey League (NHL)’s Arizona Coyotes and Los Angeles Kings two games played in front of sellout crowds at Rod Laver Arena.

Peers said she definitely thinks the sport could take off in Australia, particularly for women.

“There’s a group of girls that are going to the Youth Olympics this year which is amazing so I think getting the name of the sport out there and with encouragement for both young girls and young boys the sport could really grow and thrive,” she said.

“We have three rinks in Melbourne so we’re quite lucky compared to a lot of other states, even though unfortunately they’re not close to the Yarra Valley, so if they’re really passionate and their parents are happy to make the commute I think there is so much room for the sport to grow.”

Ken Barratt cleans up

By Ron Hottes

Warburton Bowls Club is looking forward to challenging fixtures next week.

Picture: SUPPLIED The first night of the Wednesday Night Barefoot Bowls Triples Competition was held last week with a Double Header to make up for the washout the previous week. With a full complement of 16 teams, two rounds of 8 ends each saw several close games, including two draws, to start the new season.

The new teams comprising Three Amigos, Bowl Movement, Noel’s Crew, 50 Shades of Green and Gunners all performed extremely well. Madisyn Nicolandos from the Three Amigos won the prize for the first player to touch the jack.

After the first two rounds, four teams remain undefeated, Thomos, Pensioners, Sheep Assist and Bolters.

This season’s Pink Ribbon Day will be held on Sunday 11 February next year with all funds raised going towards Breast Cancer Research.

More details to follow in the coming weeks.

Social Bowls continues to be played on Mondays from 12 midday with everyone including new and beginning players encouraged to attend. Come along and give Bowls a try.

Wednesday 15 November, Par One of the Warburton Golf Club’s lady members, part of the ‘hunting pack’, didn’t win on this day but they did snare the runner-up prize. It took an outstanding result, on the part of K.B, to keep that lovely lady out of the top spot! So thank you Ken Barratt for finding your very best form this day, to return a stunning +6, at the cost of 1, or even 2 shots off that way-too-generous handicap (Although the $60 voucher will soothe that outcome.)

So, a new member, Georgie Houniet, whose game is now as smooth as Saffron, threaded her way to a superb +5. That will impact your new handicap, Georgie. With those good scores being posted, the ball rundown only got to +1. NTPs went home with Peter Whitehead (3rd), ‘Junior’ Garside( 9th and nearly an ace), Neil Leckenby (12th) and Ray Gilmore (15th).

Twilight Under cloudy skies, but in perfect golfing weather, a healthy field of 40+ enjoyed those perfect conditions. And coming in with a near-perfect result was Steve Noonan, who amassed 22 points. Mind you, that win for ‘Noons’ only just scraped in, because runner-up, Braydon Millar, only lost the top prize on a countback. Great scores though by both boys and with that sort of scoring, balls only extended to 19. NTP winners were Clinton Toohey (10th), Braydon Millar (12th) and Jane Schendzielorz (15th).

Saturday 18 November, Stableford A beautiful late spring day provided a spring in the step of plenty in the field. Springing the highest again was Ken Barratt, with a

Warburton Golf Club results. Picture: ON FILE massive 42 points posted to take home the B-Grade voucher. K.B. once again, stopped the charge of the lady members, for claiming runner-up rights was Merilyn McDonald, who posted a 41-point round (Poor old Alan, she has bragging rights again.) Both K.B. and Merilyn will play with reduced handicaps the next time they step up to the 1st tee surely. In A-Grade, the scores were nearly as impressive, because Danny Fox returned a very healthy 40-point result to claim the top prize. Once again it was a Lady member pressing him for top honours. Ever-popular Club President Meredith Nursey had a great day, posting a 39-point result. Great work, Prez. Balls in both grades reached 36. The NTP winners were as follows: Clinton Toohey (3rd), Michael Batten (5th), Glen Patrick (9th), Ms Nursey and Bagel (12th) and Sean Kennedy (15th). mailcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Mixed results in cricket

By Josh Handasyde U12-4: Healesville 8/111 defeated by Mooroolbark 6/112 Healesville batted first on a lightning-fast outfield at Queens Park. Louis Keath (45) and Manny Winrow (16) both opened and retired before returning to the wicket later and being dismissed. Ben Hunter 16* was the other notable scorer with Healesville losing consistent wickets after their good start to being bowled out for 111. While bowling we were able to take consistent wickets throughout the innings but some Mooroolbark cornerstones kept them in the game with Mooroolbark eventually passing the total 6 down with 2 overs left. Manny Winrow 2 Wickets and Arthur Coleman and Mika Kerst both claimed 1 wicket with 2 runouts also occurring.

U12-9: Healesville 5/52 defeated by Yarra Glen 3/110 Healesville Batted first at Yarra Glen and were able to defend their wicket well with four of the top six batsmen finishing not out but runs were shortchanged with the boys unable to pierce the infield consistently due to some strong Yarra Glen bowling and finished 5/52 of 23 overs. The bowling innings started less than ideal with 3 boundaries being struck in the first over but after that, some good bowling helped to restrict the runs and also claim 3 wickets throughout the night Felix McMahon, Alby Gotch and Angus Holmes claimed 1 a piece.

U14-3: Healesville 3/56 Chasing Wantirna South 118 *Two Day Match Travelling to Wantirna South the boys were sent into the field and through tight bowl-

ing and good fielding they were able to leave Wantirna scrambling at 6/45 before some strong partnerships managed to give them 118 on the board, Henry Harding 3/10 off 7 and Sam Keath 2/12 the pick of the bowlers with Aeden Senti and Harry Duff also picking up wickets. Three run-outs also occurred which is a testament to the strong fielding effort. With 12 overs to bat, it started less than ideal with Sam Keath being dismissed on the first ball before Aeden Senti (26) started putting the pressure on the bowlers before he and his partner Henry Harding (9) were dismissed on the stroke of stumps leaving us needing 63 runs for the 3rd win in a row.

U14-7: Healesville 5/70 Chasing Norwood 87 *Two Day Match In the split innings two-day match which saw the team bat 25 overs each on both days, Healesville Batted first and after the last twoday match, looked to value their wicket and build slowly to a score, with Tully Ellis and Tom Quaggin doing well to see out the first 10 overs of the day while still seeing the scoreboard go at 3 an over. Throughout the innings, batsmen were able to get to 30 balls but weren’t able to kick on which left the Bloods 5/70 after what could have been so much more, after some soft dismissals. However, all was forgotten after the spectacular bowling performance which saw Healesville lock in to restrict extras which was a key focus and run through the strong top order of Norwood. Harry Thomas 2/8, Summer Caldicott 1/7 and Austin Simmons 2/5 ran through the top order before Tully Ellis finished them off with 3/12. This leaves the Bloods needing the final 18 runs to win with 5 wickets in hand.

U16-4: Healesville 0/148 Versus Chirnside Park 8/68 *Two Day Match Back at Queens Park the boys won the toss and elected to bat with Eli Prentice making his first half Century 52* and Denzel Parson 38* setting the boys off to a great start with Sam Drummond 27* and Lucas Frazzetto 23* the current not out batsmen. The bowling innings started well with Cooper Bell 2/12 taking early blood and Tyler Braden running through the middle order finishing with 3/7 to leave Chirnside Park all but out of the game at the end of day one.

Seniors 1st XI: Norwood 7/277 *Two Day Match Travelling to Norwood saw the Bloods lose the toss and were sent into the field. Norwood openers got to work with a 120-run opening stand taking the heat out of Healesville’s bowling attack before Josh Handasyde got the breakthrough in the 28th over. The Bloods continued to bowl tight areas to restrict the runs but Norwood batted well and didn’t allow the Bloods to get any momentum before Liam English struck with a top edge off a ball that bounced a bit more than the batsmen anticipated. Healesville continued to plug away after tea with Ryan Webster claiming his first wicket at the club and a mixture of tight bowling and good batting saw the score crawl up to 7/277 with Mitch Tampaline 2/42 off 20 and Josh Handasyde 2/52 off 15 the picks of the bowlers.

Congratulations to Darcy English who played his First 1st XI match bowling well with figures of 0/15 off 7.

Seniors 2nd XI: Wandin 411 *Two Day Match A grim day for the Bloods saw them send Wandin in and the onslaught began with Wandin able to score with ease on quick outfield. While

the batting was good, particularly by Bryce Edwards who made 198, bowlers weren’t able to bowl in the right areas to consistently threaten and fielding relinquished any sort of pressure Healesville were able to build. Brodie Grace 2/52, Zac Fawdry 2/64 and Jack Drummond 3/86 bowled tirelessly but runs were able to flow throughout the day. A big chase for next week and will be interesting to see how the team approaches it.

Seniors 3rd XI: Healesville 8/206 defeated Bayswater Park 9/134 Travelling to Bayswater stand-in skipper Matt Wilkinson won the toss and decided to bat with an onslaught ensuing, with Jesse Thomas 40* Grant Braden 40, Matt Kellalea 30 and Aman Singh 47* all making quick runs to give the Bloods a more than competitive score.

Garry Mundi was able to claim an early wicket and bowled tight with 1/7 off 4. Allan Pearce 2/36 off 9, two overs more than the maximum due to a scoring error was one of the more humorous moments of the day and Tyler Braden came on late to take 4/15 to clean up the middle to late order.

Seniors 4th XI: Healesville 2/192 defeated Lusatia Park 4/157 The first victory this season for the Fourth XI saw them bat first with Ethan Nikcevich blasting a quickfire 50* and Zach Coleman (41) playing the anchor role. Matt Harding also scored his maiden half-century for the club making 52* to see the Bloods through to a strong total of 192. A mixture of tight bowling and strong fielding saw Healesville make early inroads which would eventually lead to the victory with Denzel Parsons 1/33 and Megan Schelfhout 2/23 leading the attack with Zach Coleman also pinching a wicket late.

Swapped fortunes for teams Disappointing results

By Peter Brennan After three consecutive losses, the Yarra Junction Bowling Club midweek team was desperate for a win. No one likes being bottom of the ladder, and there was a determination in the air as they hosted Heathmont at home. But if there are any constants in life the weather is not one of them. If anything there has been altogether too much weather for the midweek games, from strong winds to excessive heat. As Heathmont made their long trek up to the valley their windscreen wipers were working, and it was a grey drizzling morning. Just enough drizzle to be cold and uncomfortable. But bowls is an outdoor game, so it was jackets and raincoats. The drizzle never turned to rain and Junction gradually built a lead. They held it through the day and ran out to a reasonably comfortable win, which lifted them off the bottom of the ladder.

For the sake of those who put so much work into the garden and general maintenance of the grounds, it is worth noting how complimentary the Heathmont bowlers were of the general appearance of the club.

The weekend team were second on the ladder, and hosted top-placed Mitcham at home. Somebody did a good job with the weather, and it was a near-perfect day for a top-of-the-table clash. Neither team could make a break. The margin between them

was small and stayed small, with sometimes Mitcham and sometimes Junction a few points ahead. At half time Junction held a narrow lead. It was a stressful match, worthy of the two top teams. Nothing could be taken for granted, and unpredictability was the order of the day. Even the halftime meat raffle was won by a vegetarian.

Junction had the home-ground advantage, but Mitcham is a large club with many teams and a wealth of experienced players. With only a few ends to play their class showed through and they drew ahead. At day’s end, Junction won one rink, drew one, and lost two, losing overall. Mitcham is now clear on top of the ladder, and Junction clings to second place by a narrow margin. It is an absorbing competition.

The Community Cup continues on Friday evenings and is a very enjoyable occasion. The current leader is the team from Cire, followed by Little Yarra Egg Farm and U3A. Barefoot Bowls is coming closer and will start in early January.

Yarra Junction Bowling Club is a small club with a big heart and welcomes visitors with equipment available for those wanting to have a go. Whether you are young or old, male or female, or anything in between, wander down if you are tempted, and try it out. Thursday afternoon from 12.30 on is always a good time.

Lilydale Show horse success

By Anita Prowse Lovely weather on Sunday for all the action of the Lilydale Show’s second day, great to hear so many Valley locals were competing.

A reminder to any Clubs wishing to hire Wesburn Park next year for events, please return signed contracts ASAP for a date to be booked. There looks to be a bumper year of competition on our doorstep.

Another reminder also that HRCAV memberships are now due, if you’re out competing make sure you double check details are in order.

PCV memberships will also be due 31 December which is vitally important for the sport so it can continue having venues and events mailcommunity.com.au

run locally at affordable prices. Everyone needs to get their community spirit back and support each other unconditionally.

Entries for the Yarra Valley Horse Show have begun coming in, they can be pre-purchased through Event Secretary at a discounted rate, or full-price tickets are available on the day.

A huge raffle with some amazing prizes and Christmas hampers will be running during the course of the day, and spectators are always welcome.

The Upper Yarra Pony Club’s Christmas rally will be held on 17 December, with Christmas lunch supplied by the Club, games and fancy dress, all our friends and family are welcome, please RSVP by 10 December.

By Ian Milgate Tuesday’s Team 1 played away at Yarra Glen and with only 3 points separating the first 5 teams, it was an opportunity to go from fifth place to first place on the ladder.

Unfortunately, Yarra Glen chose to put us on grass on a wet morning and they struggled to handle the conditions, although having said Yarra Glen didn’t have it all their own way as all rinks were even with a couple of ends to go and finally it went down to the last end. Steve Graham’s rink managed to draw but Steve Bulled’s and Wally May’s rinks couldn’t hang on, going down to them by 7 shots 50 -57.

Steve Graham, Rob Broadhurst, Hilda Gurney, Gerda Otto 15 - 15.

Steve Bulled, Robyn Turville, Damian Key, Ian Milgate 18- 21.

Wally Mays, Effie Laban, Judy Veermann, Robert Ayres 17 - 21.

Tuesday’s Team 2 played at home against Mooroolbark, and it was a game that the team expected to win as our opposition were sitting on the bottom of the ladder, but to their credit they came with their A game and proved too strong on the day for Healesville.

John Fitzpatrick’s rink were the shining light with all players contributing to have the highest winning score with a well deserved pen coming to them.

But, at the end of the day, the team went down by 19 shots to Mooroolbark 49 - 68.

John Fitzpatrick, Barry Parker, Colin Jarvis, Jodie Ward 23 - 18.

Len Cosson, Gerry Gomers, Anne Holland, Glenda Graham 9 - 23.

Mike Adams, Leonie Fitzpatrick, Karl Tok, Mark Cookney 17 - 27.

Corporate Bowls had a nice evening weather wise, with some excellent bowling coming from many of the teams as they start to head into the second half of the competition. Mr Milgate saw some good bowls being put down by the Bendigo bank girls after a little tuition and a great drive by Kieran from Pro Vit Cult to move them into second place.

“The thing I enjoy watching from the sidelines whilst cooking sausages is that everyone on the rinks playing genuinely look like they are having a great time, which is so nice to see from the community,” Mr Milgate said.

The leader board as it stands is first place on 56 points CodeArt, second on 54 points and have moved up from last week ProVit Cult and Equal third on 53 points is The Laneway and Watts river Brewing.

Come on down next Wednesday night to cheer on these great teams as they fight it out for the Charles Hort Memorial Trophy.

Saturday’s Team 1 played away at Ringwood whom were sitting second bottom on the ladder and Healesville second top on the ladder, so the team was going into this game with a quite confidence of a win.

When they arrived they found that they had put us on the grass which would suit our opponents but along with the quite breezes conditions, it made for a tough day at the office. Although they went into the break 2 shots ahead 33 - 31, the wind picked up in the second half making it difficult.

Ringwood finally wore them down winning by 13 shots 63 - 76.

Steve Graham, Rob Broadhurst, Robert Ayres, Ian Milgate 19 - 16.

Steve Bulled, John Clark, Colin Jarvis, John Howard 20 - 15.

Adrian beales, Effie Laban, Bob Brown, gerda Otto 13 - 24.

Mark Ward, Chris Hawting, Judy Veermann, Barry Parker 11 - 21.

Saturday’s Team 2 were at home to Mitcham whom were sitting second on the ladder one point behind Healesville who was sitting top, so this was going to be a cracker game with who ever won cementing their place in the first position.

The team got off to a good start and by half time, they were a couple of shots in front. It was tight all afternoon with some great bowling from Anne Holland, Len Cosson, Mike Adams, Glenda Graham and especially Tino Macari who is one of the new bowlers to the club.

In fact we played three new players being Tino, Steve Hargrave and Anne Knibbs so it was a credit to all of them for their first time.

Unfortunately, they went down in the end by 6 shots 62 - 68. A great effort.

Len Cosson, Leonie Fitzpatrick, Russell Smith, Steve Hargrave 34 - 24.

Mike Adams, Anne Holland, Mark Cookney, Tino Macari 12 - 26.

John Fitzpatrick, Glenda Graham, Karl Tok, Anne Knibbs 16 - 18.

Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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MAIL 35

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