Mail - Ferntree Gully Star Mail - 28th November 2023

Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

Mail A Star News Group Publication

Lily and Jessie pose for the camera to have their paw-trait taken in Monbulk Vet Centre’s Christmas fundraiser.

Raising funds for the Emerald Monbulk Wildlife Shelter, clinic owner and vet Emma Thomerson is providing pets with the ultimate Santa photo experience from late November through to mid-December.

So get your pooches or your felines ready for their close up, while donating to a good cause.

To read more, turn to page 7 of Star Mail’s special Christmas wrap

RANGES TRADER FERNTREE GULLY BELGRAVE

Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808

CHRISTMAS IN THE YARRA RANGES

A Christmas message

By Aaron Violi, Casey MP From my family to you, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year filled with joy, happiness and time to reconnect with family and friends.

This past year has brought its share of challenges and I understand the difficulties many residents are facing with the rising cost of living.

I have been advocating in Parliament for the government to do more to ease the cost-ofliving pressures families are facing – from higher mortgages, rents, groceries, energy and healthcare.

But now, at Christmas, we are all presented with an opportunity to slow down and enjoy a break with family and loved ones.

It’s a chance to reflect on the year gone by and make plans for the year ahead.

This Christmas in particular, I urge you to reach out to your friends, family, loved ones and neighbours.

Let’s not just celebrate the joy of the season, but also extend a helping hand to those around us.

A simple conversation, a shared meal and a small gesture of kindness can make the world of difference.

As always, if there is anything I can do to assist you, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me. My office has recently moved. You can now find me at 110 Main Street, Lilydale, or alternatively, I can still be reached on (03) 9727 0799 or at Aaron.Violi.MP@aph.gov.au.

As we step into the new year, may we continue to support each other and work together to make our community even stronger.

Casey MP Aaron Violi wishes his local community a very Happy Christmas period.

Picture: FILE

Christmas trends for a merry festive season

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Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

AARON VIOLI FEDERAL MEMBER FOR CASEY

110 Main Street, Lilydale VIC 3140 aaron.violi.mp@aph.gov.au

9727 0799

aaronvioli.com.au

AaronVioliCasey

Authorised by Aaron Violi MP, Liberal Party of Australia, 110 Main Street, Lilydale VIC 3140.

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Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

As we approach the holiday season in 2023, it’s exciting to take a look at the emerging Christmas trends that are likely to shape the way we celebrate and enjoy this festive time of the year. While Christmas traditions remain timeless, contemporary influences and evolving cultural shifts are continually influencing the way we approach the holiday. Here are some Christmas trends to watch for in 2023: Sustainable Celebrations: Environmental consciousness is a prevailing trend in many aspects of life, and Christmas is no exception. In 2023, expect to see more sustainable Christmas decorations, eco-friendly gift wrapping, and a focus on reducing waste. Many people are choosing to invest in reusable or recyclable holiday decor and opting for thoughtful, meaningful gifts over excessive consumption.

Tech-Infused Decorations: With the growing popularity of smart home devices and tech integration, Christmas decorations are getting a high-tech makeover. You can control your Christmas lights, music, and even themed projections through smartphone apps and voice assistants, creating a more immersive and customizable experience.

Alternative Christmas Trees: While traditional evergreen trees will always have a special place in our hearts, many are opting for alternative Christmas tree designs in 2023. These may include wall-mounted trees, potted plants, or even artistic, unconventional tree shapes that reflect personal style and creativity.

Virtual Celebrations: The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of virtual gatherings, and this trend is likely to continue into 2023, especially for those with loved ones far away. People will celebrate Christmas through video calls, sharing meals, opening presents, and even decorating the tree together, no matter the physical distance.

Christmas Markets and Local Shopping: Support for local artisans and small businesses is on the rise. Christmas markets and local craft fairs are becoming more popular, providing unique, handmade gifts, and a festive atmosphere. This trend aligns with the desire for authenticity and reducing mass-produced, commercial products.

Experiential Gifts: Instead of traditional material gifts, many are shifting towards experiential presents, such as cooking classes, concert tickets, or weekend getaways. This trend emphasizes creating memorable moments and shared experiences over material possessions.

Personalised and DIY Decor: Personalised ornaments, stockings, and other decorations are becoming a popular choice, allowing people to add a unique touch to their holiday ambiance. DIY crafts, from handmade wreaths to custom-made table centerpieces, are also in demand.

Inclusive Celebrations: As society becomes more diverse and inclusive, people are making a concerted effort to ensure that Christmas celebrations are welcoming to everyone. This means incorporating more diverse and representative decorations, greetings, and activities that honor various cultural backgrounds and beliefs.

Culinary Adventures: Food has always been a central element of Christmas celebrations, but in 2023, expect to see more culinary experimentation. People are exploring international flavors and incorporating new recipes into their festive meals.

There’s also a growing interest in plantbased or vegetarian holiday feasts.

Retro Nostalgia: The past has a strong influence on Christmas trends, with people embracing the nostalgia of previous eras.

This may mean a return to retro decorations, classic Christmas movies, and reviving cherished family traditions. mailcommunity.com.au

CHRISTMAS IN BELGRAVE

Carols will begin at 7.30pm this year.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

The annual event has been running since 2005.

Come along to carols night The Sassafras-Ferny Creek Fire Brigade is delighted to host Carols on the Mountain on 16 December this year - first staged in 2005, the event has become a treasured annual highlight in the Hills community calendar.

Gates open at 6.30pm and carols will start at 7.30pm.

There is a big line up of artists again this year including Soloist Lady Shaula, the Southern Voices and Tecoma Sing Australia choir, and the Upwey High School Show Band.

A local dance group and many local students from Ferny Creek, The Patch and other primary schools will also be performing.

CFA will be running the barbecue, serving sausages, hamburgers, veggie burgers, cold

drinks and scones with jam and cream will be provided by Dine Divine in Sassafras.

Back by popular demand will be a coffee van to keep the grown-ups caffeinated.

Santa will be arriving on a special “fire truck sleigh” at around 9pm, so little ones can get home to sleep off all the excitement.

The Sassafras-Ferny Creek CFA community information team will also be available on the night to discuss all things related to fire safety.

Mark the date in your calendar now: Saturday 16 December, Ferny Creek Recreation Reserve, Hilton Road Sassafras.

Free parking is available in the Ferny Creek Horticultural Society gardens, just follow directions from the marshals.

This community event helps support the 100 per cent; volunteer Sassafras-Ferny Creek CFA, so please make a donation at the entry gates if you can.

The Carols booklet with a full programme of the events will be for sale, and will list all event sponsors.

The brigade would like to acknowledge and thank our CFA major event sponsors including Bendigo Bank, Dandenong Ranges Vet, Ranges First National Real Estate, The Ferny Creek Horticultural Society, The Hills Medical, Arthur Daleys FTG, @Realty Real Estate, and Top Glaze Windows.

We look forward to seeing you there and sharing the joy!

Santa will make an appearance on the evening with his special “fire truck sleigh”.

Check out these free & low budget activities for your family this festive season scan QR code for a full list

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CHRISTMAS IN BELGRAVE

Be prepared

From my family to yours I wish you a happy, safe and restful festive season.

State Member for Monbulk PH: 9754 5401

E: daniela.demartino@parliament.vic.gov.au

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By Tanya Steele Scout units big and small are getting to work on their biggest fundraiser for the year with annual Christmas tree sales kicking off in early December.

1st Selby and Belgrave South units are both selling trees this year and look forward to selling and delivering the beautiful Christmas trees to people throughout the hills.

1st Selby committee member Shona McKendry said that the Joeys and Cubs in previous years have had a great time delivering the trees.

Families work together and the Scouts dress up in their uniforms with a touch of festive flair while loading up and delivering the Christmas trees to people’s homes.

“The kids really enjoy it and the people love seeing them deliver the trees in their uniforms,” she said.

Parent volunteer from the Belgrave South Scouts Rachael Vautier said it is the unit’s third year running the Christmas tree sale and the funds are vital for the Scouts to purchase equipment for the unit.

“Our unit has gone through a lot of growth and our numbers have increased,” she said.

“We need to fundraise for more gear, this will be towards purchasing more tents.”

The 1st Selby unit Christmas trees are 80 dollars including delivery and people can pre-order via text or email.

“We have deliveries in the first three Saturdays of December”, Ms McKendry said.

People can order trees from the 1st Selby Scouts by Wednesday for the following Saturday at 1stselbyxmastrees@gmail.com or 0477 516 840 “So say if you order by Wednesday 29, you would get your tree by Saturday 2 December,” she said.

Belgrave South Scouts will be selling trees on both Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 2pm for the first two weekends of December at the IGA

Merry Christmas

Belgrave South Scouts are looking forward to selling their trees from the IGA carpark.

Picture: SUPPLIED carpark in Belgrave South.

“People can pre-order for a discount or come on the day to purchase trees and we can also do local delivery,” Ms Vautier said.

If people haven’t bought a live tree before the Belgrave South Scouts can also sell people a base for it to screw into and trees come between 5 and 8 ft tall.

All the Scouts learn a lot from being onsite and selling trees - working together as a team to coordinate the purchasing and delivery among their groups.

“Not only are they raising money for their unit, they are gaining experience and pride when they serve customers,” Ms Vautier said.

Ms McKendry said the 1st Selby Scouts have many loyal customers who reorder every year and that it has been heartening to see that people are willing to donate annually.

“It’s just amazing community spirit from these people, so we really appreciate them getting a tree again each year,” she said.

“It’s a lovely thing to be doing.”

A special thank you to our entire community, clients, friends and family for all of your ongoing support.

2023 has been a rewarding year and we are thankful for the loyalty and encouragement we have received.

Wishing you a happy 2024!

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from the team at Chandler & Co

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CHRISTMAS IN MONBULK

Lifting community spirits

The Merry Market is on it’s way! From left: Ella, Bendigo Bank, Michelle -Monbulk trader, Mike, Neat n Clean Monbulk Dry Cleaners, Hannah -Bendigo Bank, Brent - Friends on the Hill and Jenni Monbulk Care Network.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Bank Monbulk & District opened its doors in February 2012 and in this time, they have remained open with consistency and maintained full hours of operation for our customers and community.

This year has seen an onflow post-covid, post-2021 storms and seen uncertainty through the current economic changes, leaving people in our community overall dispirited. Our team has shed light where possible by

maintaining our customer and people focus and by supporting our community with some incredible projects and initiatives.

Examples of this are where we funded a tepee for Trek Learning Centre to enable concentrated group work and support for their programs, we partnered with the Kallista Village Market to bring the Kallista Revival Festival to the community and gifted $20,000 to the Emerald Monbulk Wildlife Shelter to continue

the fantastic work they do in our local area rescuing native fauna.

Monbulk & District Community Enterprises Limited is a community owned company and operates on a profit for purpose model, which means revenue generated by customers banking such as loans and deposits are reinvested back to the local community. This keeps money here in the local area via programs such as sponsorship and grants. Thanks to the support of our shareholders, branch staff, company board and customers we have been able to grow to be one of the biggest sources of community funding in Monbulk.

In 2024, we plan to grow on what we do.

We believe it is so important to be here and meet the needs of local people. Our vision is to support not only our customers, but our local clubs, groups, schools, and organisations. Since 2012 we have given back just over $924,000.00 to our community, which is a wonderful achievement for all involved. Envisage what this model could look like if everyone in the Monbulk and District area banked with Community Bank Monbulk & District.

Our Board of volunteer directors get to make the decision on how our funds are spent and really make a difference in Monbulk. Our 10 directors are locals and a great representation of the people in our community. Many are parents or grandparents and have many years of business and professional experience.

We would like to thank Andrew Raper who recently retired from his role as a volunteer director. Andrew has been a director for 9 years and in that time has made a significant contribution to our board.

On behalf of the Community Bank Monbulk & District branch staff and board we wish our community a happy and healthy Christmas and New Year.

Friday 1st December

SEASONS GREETINGS

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With Christmas less than a month away we are all feeling positive and hopeful for an enjoyable 2024.

The Community Bank Monbulk & District Merry Monbulk Street Party for 2023 is coming - so Save the Date!

Join the Monbulk Traders Association and MADCOW as we enjoy a night full of Christmas festivities on Friday 1 December from 5pm to 9pm.

Santa will be in attendance, there will be beautiful Christmas markets, festive kids activities and the traders in Monbulk will also be staying up late and participating in some late night trading.

Community Bank Monbulk & District is proudly a major sponsor of the upcoming Merry Monbulk Street Party and we look forward to seeing you there!

The annual Wishing tree will be also available at the Merry Monbulk on 1 December and then the Bendigo Bank from Monday 4 December.

Every year Community Bank Monbulk & District partners with the Monbulk Care Network and their annual Wishing Tree Christmas Present appeal and people can select a tag and help a local child in need this Christmas.

We thank you in advance as every year we are humbled by the generosity of the Monbulk & District Community.

Rebecca Meyer, assistant branch manager for the Christmas section, said the staff of Community Bank Monbulk & District are looking forward to participating in the annual Merry Monbulk event. ajor sponsors of Merry Monbulk it is always nice to enjoy the Christmas festivities with our community,“ she said.

It has been eleven years since Community

Christms is just around the corner and I just wanted to say Thank You and that it has been a pleasure working with you again this year.

Wishing you and your family all the best for the new year.

fletchers.net.au mailcommunity.com.au

12648145-AV48-23

Jenni Nash jenni.nash@fletchers.net.au I 0498 147 355

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CHRISTMAS IN MONBULK

Soar into goodwill season Get into the Christmas spirit this year with the Monbulk Care Network and donate some food or buy a gift for someone in need for the festive season.

Monbulk Care Network is a not-for-profit community support organisation operating the Op Shop located on the Main Street and the Open Door Food Pantry at 2 David Hill Road.

This year in particular, the team at MCN has noticed an increase in the number of people looking for assistance due to increasing costs, especially with mortgage stress.

At this time of year, it is important that we do our part to ensure that everyone enjoys a special Christmas and feels loved.

The Monbulk Care Network (MCN) is once again doing Christmas Hampers and the Annual Wishing Tree Appeal and donations are very welcome.

Food hampers are assembled by volunteers and locals can drop off non-perishable goods such as napkins, bon bons, cordial, anything Christmassy, shelf-stable items and fruit puddings to the Op Shop team for inclusion in the hampers.

In order to receive a hamper, people need to sign up and fill in a registration form at the Food Pantry or at the Op Shop in Main Street.

Hampers will be available for collection from upstairs at the Op shop in Main Street between 10am-4pm from December 11 – Dec 15.

MCN has also partnered with the Bendigo Community Bank in Monbulk & District for the annual ‘Wishing Tree Christmas Present Appeal’.

The tree will be on display for the Merry Monbulk Street Party on December 1, and will then be available at the Bendigo Bank for people to make their donations. Just take a tag

Monbulk Care Network will be packing gifts for its Annual Wishing Tree Appeal to place at someone’s Christmas Tree. from the tree that has a title like ‘child, seven’ and buy a gift for that age group and put it under the tree. Adults can also receive presents from the Wishing Tree Appeal as well.

Over the Christmas period don’t forget to pop into the Op Shop to check out the Christmas decorations and summer range available.

The Op Shop will also be open on Friday December 1 in the evening for Merry Monbulk and will be closed from December 23 and will reopen on Monday, 15 January 2024.

The Monbulk Care Network is thankful for all their partnerships and support from the local community and the Monbulk Bendigo Bank for their support this Christmas with the Wishing Tree Christmas Present Appeal.

We wish you all a very Merry and Blessed Christmas.

Get into the Christmas spirit this year with the Monbulk Care Network and donate some food or buy a gift for someone in need for the festive season.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Picture: UNSPLASH

The Monbulk Care Network (MCN) is once again doing Christmas Hampers and the Annual Wishing Tree Appeal and donations are very welcome.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Open Door Community Care Monbulk Care Network

Christmas Giving Tree Visit Monbulk Bendigo Bank to make your Christmas Toy Donation. Help us make this year's Christmas a special time for our clients and their children in our local community.

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9756 7800 12650498-FC48-23

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CHRISTMAS IN MONBULK

Fur-friends get snapping

By Tanya Steele Say ‘Woof’ or ‘Meow’ with Santa for a good cause this holiday season as Monbulk Vet Centre gears up for some special Christmas ’petograhpy’ sessions with the furry members of the family for a purr-fect holiday paw-trait.

Book in to have your photo taken with your favourite pooch or purr-fect companion with Santa himself.

All money raised in the Santa photo sessions will go towards a special cause - the Emerald Monbulk Wildlife Shelter.

Vet Emma Thomserson wants to raise money from the sessions for the local wildlife carers that do so much for the local community.

“This year it’s a give back - we’re going to do Santa and pet photos at the practice,” she said.

“The carers are all volunteers and they have been nothing but amazing, since we’ve started here they’ve also been helping us to learn more about the wildlife in the area.”

“If we ever need anything, they never hesitate to help us.”

The Monbulk vet practice re-opened in May 2023 and Ms Thomerson said it had been closed for 12 months beforehand.

“It’s been very exciting and we do a really wide range of things from standard vaccinations to advanced surgeries - we also see rabbits, guinea pigs and chickens as well,” she said.

“We also do a regular puppy school.”

The new clinic owner has been welcomed by the locals who have helped the business settle in and feel at home, and Ms Thomserson said she has loved meeting everyone.

“I wholeheartedly love my job and I love it even more now,” she said.

“We’ve been loving really getting to know a

Vet Emma Thomerson has loved becoming part of the Monbulk Community and wants to give back. lot of people in the community.”

People can book a time for a Santa and pet photo session by ringing the clinic on 03 9752 1001 or messaging them on Instagram or Facebook.

The photo sessions cost $15 and begin on Wednesday 22 November and the clinic is running them right up until 16 December.

Saw “woof” with your pet for a beautiful paw-trait with Santa at the Monbulk Vet Centre.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

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CONTACT US

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CHRISTMAS IN MONBULK

‘The Grinch’ at the movies Christmas is in full swing across the hills and Monbulk Outdoor Movie Nights are showing ‘The Grinch’ on Saturday 16 December.

People can come down to the St. Georges Street Paddock in Monbulk from 6.30pm and set up on a picnic blanket or snag a blow-up chair (first in, best dressed) for the movie.

Monbulk & District Community Opportunities Working (MADCOW) group member Lucy Beach said it is a great family night out and that the group hopes to continue holding the summer movie nights and the first showing in November was a lot of fun.

“Last month, we had some music before the movie started and the kids were all dancing,” she said.

Sponsorship from Bendigo Bank has made the purchase of the 23/34 summer films possible and a storm recovery grant from Yarra Ranges Council that came into activation this year has made it possible to purchase the film projector.

“We won a grant from the Yarra Ranges Council, which was from the Monbulk Traders and auspiced by MADCOW,” she said.

“It’s basically a combination of us all working together, just to do something nice for the community.

“We decided to buy an outdoor cinema, we thought it was just such a lovely thing to do. So we will continue to do it every summer.”

Acting director of communities, Corinne Bowen said that the Yarra Ranges Council is thrilled to have been able to support so many fantastic festive events put on by their business and trader groups.

“So many of our townships - including Monbulk, Upwey, Kallista, Healesville, Olinda, Sassafras, Belgrave, Montrose, Lilydale and Mooroolbark are hosting family friendly events including Twilight Shopping Evenings,

Come watch ‘The Grinch’ and learn about the spirit of Christmas on 16 December.

Outdoor Movies Nights and Seasonal Street Parties,“ she said.

“Many of these groups have been supported by our Business and Trader Group Recovery Grants, and we’re excited to be adding a little extra seasonal spirit to the celebrations with our Festive Busking Series, which has placed some of our incredible local performers at these events.”

Locals can attend the movies for free and bring their own snacks or picnic or buy from

local community groups running food options and popcorn on the night.

“We wanted to get back to the community as well - so if people do come and buy popcorn, food, ice cream, all that money is going back to the community group, last month, it was a Girl Guide group,” she said.

The movies will air every third Saturday of the month until March 2024 at the St Georges Church Picnic Paddock, 75 Main Road Monbulk.

Picture: SUPPLIED

· The Grinch Saturday 16 December · Spiderman: Across the Spider-verse Saturday 26 January · The Labyrinth 17 February · The Mario Movie 16 March Popcorn, food and refreshments will be sold by alternating community groups and will be available from 6.30pm - the movie will start as the sun sets.

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CHRISTMAS IN COCKATOO

Cockatoo RSL’s festivities Cockatoo RSL is set to hold its annual Christmas lunch once again this year.

A smorgasbord of roasts, vegies, salads and cold meats will be available for attendees on Christmas Day, Monday 25 December.

RSL president Carol Thompson said the Christmas lunch commenced in 2016 and has been ongoing since then.

“We hope people get to enjoy Christmas and not be home alone,” Ms Thompson said.

“Singles, couples, parents with kids are welcome, really anyone who has nowhere to go [or] someone to spend the day with.

“It’s a free lunch and any donations given go towards the cost of the food.”

The Christmas lunch will take place from 12pm to 4pm, with bookings able to assist the RSL with catering.

Cockatoo RSL is located at 20 BelgraveGembrook Road in Cockatoo.

For bookings, contact (03) 5968 8053 during business hours.

Cockatoo RSL will be waiting to welcome you with open arms this Christmas Day. Picture: SUPPLIED

Check out these free & low budget activities for your family this festive season, scan QR code for a full list

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CHRISTMAS IN EMERALD

Carols time Hear from some talented locals as they sing some of people’s favourite carols.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Join in the festive spirit by donning a Christmas hat or some face paint.

Picture: SUPPLIED

We take this opportunity to extend our thanks for Emerald’s Carols by the Lake are returning for a picturesque night of singing and joy.

Picture: ON FILE Council, Barry Plant, St Marks Church and the Emerald Op-Shop.

Mr Soderlund said every year the carols event has a lovely community feel to it and the evening tends to become quite magical.

“It’s fantastic towards the end of the night when we have electric candles, you can see all those people sitting there and singing,“ he said.

“With the nature, the lights and the decorations on the stage - It’s almost like a wonderland.”

the amazing welcome we have had to Emerald.

We wish everyone the compliments of the season and look forward to being a part of the community in 2024 and beyond.

grace and louie B O O K S E L L E R S

SHOP 8, 5-7 KILVINGTON DRIVE, EMERALD T: (03) 5929 8315 E: admin@graceandlouiebooksellers.au

12645069-AP48-23

Songs by the water and community spirit will be in top form in Emerald this December as volunteers get ready for the annual carolling and music event.

Carols by the Lake will return to Emerald this Christmas led by the Cardinia Civic Concert Band on the evening of Friday 15 December.

The night kicks off with a community picnic and carols from 5.30pm to 7pm led by local primary schools and local talents yet to be announced at the bandstand in Emerald Lake Park.

“You can picnic under the trees and look out to the water while you listen to the carols,” said a member of the volunteer team, Russell Soderlund.

“It’s just really pretty and really quite moving as well,” he said.

From 7.30 pm the Cardinia Civic Concert Band will lead the carols and attendees are encouraged to join in for the singing.

“We’ve got some really lovely singing and people can join in, there will be a little carols booklet,” Mr Soderlund said.

“We definitely have a few titles that everybody knows.,” he said.

There will also be a special scavenger hunt at the lake for kids to take part in on the night, with clues to special spots throughout the park.

“If you get the six of them, you then head back to the main area and you’ll get a special prize,” he said.

A collection will go around on the night and be donated to the SES and CFA in Emerald.

“The event is free, but we take up a collection through the carols,” Mr Soderlund said.

The event is made possible by the hard work of the dedicated volunteers, Cardinia

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Please call 5968 5354 to place your order Shop 4, Kilvington Drive, Emerald 3782 Email: emeraldvillagemeats@gmail.com 12650558-SM48-23

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CHRISTMAS IN UPWEY/TECOMA

Upwey lit up The town of Upwey comes alive each year during the festive season of December and the community is celebrating with seasonal gifting and decorations all throughout the township.

The Annual Light Up Upwey event is coming up and Community Bank Upwey is supporting the Upwey Community Group to brighten up the town with decorations and extra lights.

Light Up Upwey was an idea created by a local couple back in 2020 and was designed to encourage the shops of the village to decorate their windows in a fun and festive way.

The afternoon community event will take place on Saturday 16 December from 3pm to 5pm and all are welcome.

Upwey Business Group member Tamara McLeish said the group is excited to invite the community to the fun filled two hour event.

“There will be loads of festivities including a street hunt, kids entertainment, carols, buskers, the CFA trucks on show, shops and restaurants ready to feed hungry tummies and lots more,“ she said.

“We’d like to give a big thank you to the Upwey Community Group, Yarra Ranges Council and the Bendigo Bank for their support of the event.“ Remember to also look out for the kids colouring competition at, more details at the Community Bank Upwey branch.

Community Bank Upwey is also proud to announce its involvement as a collection point for the Reverse Advent Calendar Hamper contributions organised by Foothills Community Care.

In the spirit of giving, the Reverse Advent Calendar encourages individuals, families, and workplaces to fill a box or bag with nonperishable food, toiletries, and festive treats for 25 days during November/early December.

The event this year promises to bring the Upwey community together for a bit of fun.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Cheryl Gaston, recently appointed senior manager of Community Bank Upwey and Belgrave Branches, is excited for the giving aspect of the festive season.

Donations need to be dropped off at Community Bank Upwey, 30 Main Street, Upwey prior to 16 December and will be distributed to those in need in the Dandenong Ranges and Knox community by Foothills Community Care.

Unlike traditional Advent Calendars focused on receiving treats, the Reverse Advent Calendar promotes a sense of community and generosity during the holiday season.

Recently appointed senior manager of Community Bank Upwey and Belgrave Branches Cheryl Gaston, expressed her excitement about the township’s caring and involved nature.

“I am blown away by the way people connect in this area; it’s like being in a big urban country town,“ she said.

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Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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Ferntree Gully Belgrave

Emerald CFA receives vital boost

Christmas appeal returns to the Hills

PAGE 7

PAGE 12

Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

Mail Young band impressing fans

See Real Estate liftout inside

PAGE 14

PAGE 19

A Star News Group Publication

PR OP ER TY

Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808

12496493-NG22-21

Caleb onto AFL glory

Caleb Windsor was Melbourne Football Club’s number seven pick in the recent AFL National Draft.

Picture: DAVID MCPHERSON/ MELBOURNE FOOTBALL CLUB

18-year old Caleb Windsor, a Ferntree Gully teen and AFL prospect from the Lysterfield Junior Football Club, now has his eye on making his debut. and even winning a premiership on the big stage, after being picked for Melbourne Football Club in the recent National Draft.

Averaging 16 disposals, 4.5 inside 50s and a disposal efficiency of 75 per cent during the AFL U18 Championships, Windsor was announced as the number seven pick on Monday 20 November with his family by his side.

“I caught my uncle shedding a tear on the draft night before my name got picked because he saw all the cameras coming over,” the former Rowville Secondary College student told the Star Mail.

Windsor’s Eastern Ranges team mate, Nick Watson, was also drafted as Hawthorn’s pick five.

Read more on page 31

Drug driver jailed

By AAP A Lilydale born and raised ice affected driver whose licence had expired nearly a decade earlier also had alcohol in his system when

he smashed through a red light and hit a car at 159km/h before careening into a second vehicle.

113km/h when he struck the second vehicle at a suburban intersection at Ferntree Gully in Melbourne’s outer east.

red light on 27 August last year tried desperately to save the life of Dyer’s passenger but Nicole Wollard died at the scene.

Matthew Dyer’s silver Saab was still doing

Paramedics who were already waiting at the

Continued page 3

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Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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NEWS

IN BRIEF

Resurfacing works The Department of Transport and Planning is undertaking pavement repair and resurfacing works on Monbulk Road between Old Emerald Road in Silvan and Prices Road in Monbulk.

Crews will be undertaking patching and pothole repairs from Sunday 19 November to Wednesday 22 November between 8pm and 5am.

Dates and times are subject to change due to weather conditions, with works involving patching and repairing potholes.

Lane closures are in place on Monbulk Road, with traffic management controllers directing traffic to safely pass the work site.

Motorists are advised to plan ahead and allow an extra five minutes of travel time.

Reduced speed limits will be in place to ensure the safety of crews and all road users.

Bus services will continue as scheduled.

The department has said it is working to minimise noise “as much as possible,” with medium to high noise levels expected.

Crews use modern equipment to reduce noise, however the works will unavoidably emit some noise and light.

For the safety of road users and workers on site, reversing beepers are a requirement on all machinery.

Some vibrations and dust around work areas.

The next steps will involve resurfacing works expected to begin in early 2024.

The resurfacing works will be dependent on dry, warmer temperatures with the department needing to allow sufficient time between patch-

Police are investigating after bank cards were stolen from a vehicle in Wantirna on Monday 30 October.

It is believed the cards were later used at various businesses in the Ferntree Gully area.

Investigators have released an image of a woman who may be able to assist police with their enquiries. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Warrant issued for Ainsley Calvert The 24-year-old failed to appear at court and is wanted on warrant for criminal damage.

Calvert is known to frequent the Dandenong, Berwick, Cranbourne, Rowville and Wantirna areas. Anyone with other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au Read more: https://www.police.vic.gov.au/ ainsley-calvert-wanted-warrant Crews will be undertaking patching and pothole repairs from Sunday 19 November to Wednesday 22 November.

Picture: ON FILE ing and pothole repairs for the resurfacing to ensure long-term repairs.

Once resurfacing works are complete, the department will renew line marking.

As the pavement and resurfacing works are subject to favourable weather, programs and the work dates may change in the event of adverse weather.

A temporary speed reduction from 60km/hr to 50km/hr is in place to keep everyone safe un-

til the works are completed.

Once all works are complete, the signed 60km/hr speed limit will be reinstated.

“We’ll keep the community informed of upcoming resurfacing works and any changes to traffic conditions,” the department said.

To find out more about this project, people are advised to contact dotroadprojects@roads. vic.gov.au with the subject line “Monbulk Road resurfacing works”.

Matthew Dyer was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for the death of his female passenger in a high speed Ferntree Gully collision last year.

Picture: ON FILE two brothers died.

Her surviving brother has struggled to adapt to life as an only child, while Ms Wollard’s daughter described the loss of her best friend and role model as soul-crushing at the “realisation her life was never going to be the same”.

Dyer had behaved in an entirely selfish way, Judge Wraight said, noting he had absolutely no regard for the safety of other road users or his passenger - a woman who he had referred to as a friend.

Owner sought A canvas and make-up bag was located at the tennis courts next to the Rowville Community Centre on 5 October 2023 by a good Samaritan.

Police are still trying to reunite this property with an owner.

Please contact Rowville Police Station on (03) 9764 0996 if the property belongs to you.

To claim ownership, you will need to describe the contents of the bags.

· Property Reference # 202310-E-0339

‘Selfish’ drug driver receives jail term From page1 Police were also quick to arrive. Just seconds earlier officers had ended their pursuit of Dyer, concerned about his efforts to evade them.

They had first detected the now 45-yearold on a radar device doing 94km/h in a 60km/h zone.

The officer behind the wheel noticed his speed creep up to 110-115km/h in pursuit after performing a U-turn to follow and try to pull over Dyer.

Police stopped the pursuit just short of the intersection where the crash occurred, and could only watch as Dyer collided at high speed with the two vehicles.

Dyer, who was on bail at the time, was jailed for 10 years and three months on Thursday 23 November by County Court Judge Trevor Wraight.

That sentence exceeds what is standard for the culpable driving charge and others he pleaded guilty to.

He’ll have to serve at least seven-and-ahalf years before he is eligible for parole.

The death of Ms Wollard, 39, had devastating consequences for her family, coming just short of a decade after one of her

Stolen bank cards

CFA announces fire danger period

The father of a five-year-old daughter has a history of drug and driving offences dating back to 1996, and was affected by a high level of methamphetamine and a low level of alcohol at the time of the crash, which experts said contributed to his risk-taking behaviour and made him incapable of proper control.

Growing up in Lilydale with an abusive father, Judge Wraight said psychologist assessments attributed his childhood trauma to some of his addictions and personality disorder. Judge Wraight noted Dyer had been dismissed from three or four positions for drinking on the job.

But since being remanded in prison he has worked and engaged in courses.

He also has the support of a long-term partner, though the court heard she is unable to visit him in prison and suffers from a rare blood cancer which has left her with a life expectancy of seven years.

“Clearly at this stage you need significant treatment, support and supervision to address issues that led to your offending,” he said.

Dyer was also banned from driving for eight years and will have to pay a $1000 fine for driving an unregistered vehicle and using fraudulent number plates.

The fire danger period will be enforced for residents of the Yarra Ranges, Maroondah and Knox from mid-December.

CFA has announced fire restrictions for the three Local Government Areas (LGAs) beginning 1am on Monday 18 December.

Once the fire danger period has begun, fires cannot be lit in open air without a permit from CFA or a municipal fire prevention officer.

Fire danger periods are based on local conditions and take into account fuel moisture, fuel loads, weather and rainfall.

Residents are encouraged to burn off any garden waste they wish to prior to 18 December and when doing so to register their burnoff online at firepermits.vic.gov.au, by calling 1800 668 511 or by filling out a Burn Off Notification Form and emailing it to burnoffs@ esta.vic.gov.au.

If you have any green waste to dispose of once the Fire Danger Period is in place, please do so by placing it in your FOGO bin.

The fire danger period for the three LGAs is expected to end on 1 May 2024.

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MAIL 3

NEWS

Anchor’s outreach honour Anchor was proud to have received official recognition for its Rapid Response Program, winning the Award for Excellence in Ending Homelessness in the adult category at this year’s Victorian Homelessness Achievement Awards.

The Rapid Response program was conceived by Anchor to address the unique needs of those experiencing homelessness in the Yarra Ranges, with workers providing care and support to rough sleepers across the Yarra Ranges since 2018.

Speaking at the Victorian Homelessness Conference, Anchor CEO, Heidi Tucker, congratulated the Rapid Response team on their win, saying it was fantastic recognition for the incredible work they do.

“This award is perfect testament to the care and compassion of our Rapid Response team.

The program could never have happened without the commitment from the Yarra Ranges Council to effectively address the needs of those experiencing homelessness, and the involvement of other community partners such as Inspiro, Ngwala and Stable One,” Ms Tucker said.

“We now know this program is vital for providing the right support for people who are sleeping rough in the areas we serve. What is abundantly clear is that people experiencing homelessness need services to be local and flexible in addressing their needs.”

The Rapid Response team’s founding principle was to provide a link between services in the local area and the person experiencing homelessness with a view of getting that person long term accommodation.

“Expecting people to move away from a place they belong to access services creates even more disruption and hardship in homeless people’s lives. They don’t want to feel shunted around or have to move to where services happen to be,” Ms Tucker said.

Anchor’s Peter Dinsdale and Talia Appleby (centre) accept the award onstage from Alec Ward (MC), Deborah Di Natale (Council to Homeless Persons) and Paul Turton (VincentCare).

Picture: SUPPLIED For one Yarra Ranges resident the simple offer of a motel room was the difference between him getting his life back on track and returning to his substance addiction, to which he said “will forever remain the catalyst to what saved me from returning to the despair and pain of addiction.”

“I had received treatment for my drug and alcohol issues and after an altercation I had been discharged from that program and dropped off in a park with my four suitcases,” he said.

“The wreckage of my past caused by myself during my drug abuse meant I had no stable accommodation to go to and if it wasn’t for

Anchor and the help of Erin (Rapid Response worker), I would have ended up calling old, using friends to stay at their place instead of on the street.”

“Instead, Anchor provided me with a hotel to keep me safe and off the street and I remained drug free and got myself into another rehab facility.

“For this I will be forever grateful. They gave me the chance to continue my recovery, potentially saved my life, and gave my three year old daughter her father back!”

Anchor’s specialised team understands that throwing someone into accommodation immediately may in fact do the opposite of assist-

ing in their recovery and until they are stable by being connected to services, sleeping rough may be the best course of action.

For another man, it was the providing of occasional food, a new tent, dry clothes and the assistance of applying to the Victorian Housing Register that gave him a new start in life.

“At the time, he would not have been able to sustain having his own accommodation, so the strength of the program is the client-centred support that is provided, ensuring people remain connected to health and wellbeing support as they need.

“The program has provided this man, and many others, with the support and stability needed to get them to the point of being ready to accept and move into housing as it becomes available.”

These two men are just two examples of the program’s success, with 17 people accepting respite accommodation, and 18 people connected to long-term accommodation within the pilot phase.

With rough sleeping relatively hidden from everyday view, as many people choose bushland and remote parts of the Yarra Ranges to sleep, the program was also designed to map rough sleepers in case of emergencies like bushfires, floods or storms.

This too has alleviated the strain on police and other emergency services who were ill equipped to provide the necessary support.

Ms Tucker noted that services such as Rapid Response are rare, with more investment into local outreach programs in areas such as the Yarra Ranges desperately needed.

“We have been able to support people experiencing extreme hardship to overcome challenges and get back on track,” she said.

“This program is proof that when you work with people and bring the community together, you can really make a difference.”

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NEWS

Walk, talk against violence

By Mikayla Van Loon The harsh reality that family violence caused deaths of women just aren’t reducing is something organisations like Boorndawan Willam Aboriginal Healing Centre is trying to change.

That’s why on Monday 4 December the Healing Centre, alongside other family violence support organisations from the region, will be walking against violence at Lillydale Lake.

Policy and Continuous Improvement Leader Rose Solomon said as a society, changing perceptions of family violence is essential to improving outcomes for women and girls.

“We know that a woman is killed every five days in Australia as a result of family violence, and it’s not getting any better, regardless of the efforts by police and the Royal Commission and the introduction of the hub’s and so forth,” she said.

“We want to raise awareness because we need to start changing attitudes. We need to take family violence more seriously.

“We need to understand the impact that it has on whole families, both in the short term and long term and the harm it causes to children growing up and how it influences their own behaviour.”

Having a visual presence and show of support from not only community organisations but the broader public has a domino effect when it comes to starting conversations.

“By walking together and starting conversations around the impact and what we need to do together as a community to make things better for these families, goes a long way,” Ms Solomon said.

“Events like this strengthen partnerships, it raises awareness of not only community organisations but the general public that are involved.”

As the lead specialist in Aboriginal specific family violence in the eastern metro region, Ms Solomon said while First Nations women and girls experience higher rates of violence, “it affects all our families”.

“Aboriginal women in particular are 11 times more likely to experience family violence in comparison to non-Aboriginal people.

“There’s differences to urban communities like in the Eastern Region in comparison to some communities up north where there’s very traditional, enclosed communities, they’re more likely to be hospitalised as a result of family violence and they’re more likely to lose their kids to go into care as a result of experiencing family violence.”

Forming a working group of local support organisations, Ms Solomon said the event is a partnership between Ngwala Willumbong Aboriginal Corporation, Victorian Aboriginal Childcare Agency (VACCA), Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place, Mission Australia, Women’s Health East and EACH’s Aboriginal health team.

On the day, these organisations will have marquees set up to provide information, there will be a traditional smoking ceremony and welcome to country, walkers will have the opportunity to hear for each organisation along

Grab a group of friends on Monday 4 December from 10.30am. 331739 the track with six stopping points and Ash Dargan will play the didgeridoo.

Victoria Police members have also volunteered their time and a barbecue to cook for everybody, while Mullum Mullum’s creations van will be providing coffees and traditional sweet treats with lemon myrtle.

“We’re actually running a couple of subprojects that relate to the walk and each Aboriginal organisation and their clients are participating in the Clothesline Project where people with lived experience are actually painting messaging on T-shirts that will be displayed on the makeshift clothesline on the day, too.”

Getting the community involved, voting for the best T-shirt design will be available through a QR code and prizes will be awarded to the winners.

With hundreds of people having already responded to the event from across the Yarra Ranges and even from the inner eastern suburbs, Ms Solomon said it is expected to be big.

“Come along and support it, everybody’s welcome to come along and it’s a good way to bring people together and to start the conversations, the difficult conversations amongst community that need to be had.”

To join in the walk, meet at the Community Centre at Lillydale Lake at 10.30am. The event is expected to wrap up by 1.30pm.

Walk the tracks of Lillydale Lake and help spread the message of ending violence against women Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS and girls. 331739

CHRIST’S RETURN

PROUDLY AUSTRALIAN OWNED & INDEPENDENT

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Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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MAIL 5

NEWS

New medical centre plans

By Matthew Sims Cardinia Council has granted a planning permit for the use and development of land for the construction of a new medical centre in Emerald.

Located at 337 Belgrave-Gembrook Road, the site, which is currently a single-level dwelling, would hold a maximum of 13 different medical specialists for the town and surrounds.

At its meeting on Monday 20 November, councillors passed a motion to grant the permit with 26 conditions, following two further deferrals due to concerns around the traffic impacts of the proposed development.

The overall complex would be four levels, from Belgrave-Gembrook Road it will appear as two, with the two lower levels constructed more to the rear accommodating for the slope toward Madigan Way. The two lower levels will be mostly comprised of the 42 parking spaces which would be accessible from Madigan Way. Specialist space will be provided entirely on both upper levels, while a partial section of basement level 1 will have space for service.

Entrance from Belgrave-Gembrook Road would be pedestrian-only, while vehicle entrance and parking would be accessible only from Madigan Way behind the property.

The council has provided their own general and specific amendments to the plan, including a condition to upgrade Madigan Way from Ferres Road to the eastern boundary of the lot.

As Madigan Way would be its sole entry for vehicles, the council requires the road to be upgraded the full length of the lot’s rear boundary.

Other conditions outlined included no more than 13 health practitioners would be

Preliminary designs for a new medical centre in Emerald approved by Cardinia Council. allowed to be located on site at any one time and creating four bicycle spaces.

Ranges Ward councillor Jeff Springfield said while the development would be a sig-

nificant addition to Emerald, it would deliver new health service opportunities to the area.

“I do see it as a net benefit,“ he said. Beacon Hills Ward councillor Brett Owen said

Picture: SUPPLIED requiring the developer to seal Madigan Way was “very important“.

“When it is fully sealed, it’ll present a great opportunity for businesses,“ he said.

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Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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NEWS

Brand-new tanker arrives The Emerald CFA brigade has received a boost to its firefighting capabilities, with a new medium tanker joining the squad thanks to a grant from the State Government’s Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program.

The grant program allocated $394,000 towards the purchase of the new tanker, joining close to $11 million allocated to CFA brigades and operational centres across the state, as well as other organisations including the State Emergency Service, Coast Guard units and Life Saving Victoria clubs.

Emerald CFA brigade captain Klaus said the new tanker would allow the brigade supply support to the 2200 dwellings across Emerald and Avonsleigh.

“For us, it’s a really big win,” he said.

“It’s an additional resource that’s able to help the residents in times of need.”

The funding also included $88,333 towards the Officer CFA brigade for vehicles and appliances, $65,334 towards the Longwarry and District CFA brigade for vehicles and appliances, $59,334 allocated towards the Cockatoo CFA brigade for vehicles and appliances, $2256 towards the Drouin CFA brigade for operational equipment, CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said VESEP grants help provide brigades with significant funding for life-saving equipment.

“This program provides $2 for every $1 of funding from the brigade and helps with the purchase of equipment such as vehicles, trucks, tankers, watercraft, trailers, and can also include minor facility improvements,” he said.

“The contribution from the government towards equipment means brigades like Harcourt have a great incentive to fundraise in their communities and apply for a VESEP grant.

“There are also Special Access Grants available to provide a further financial boost for brigades that face challenges with fundraising.”

The Emerald CFA brigade’s new medium tanker is a welcome addition to their equipment inventory.

Picture: SUPPLIED

The advice is don’t leave bushfire preparations too late The bushfire season is just around the corner, and Hills residents should be making the most of the mild weather to undertake the necessary clean-ups of their properties.

Locals are advised not to leave preparations until the Fire Danger Period is declared.

While we are surrounded by our beautiful national parks, reserves and gardens we can also reduce the bushfire risk to the local communities by our preparations on our private properties.

Kalorama-Mount Dandenong CFA captain, Bill Robinson, advises that not only can we improve our own safety by cleaning up our property but we add to the safety of our neighbours and nearby local community.

The Kalorama Fuel Management Group has undertaken extensive research work in the last few years to identify areas that would substantially benefit from fuel reduction works on public and private land.

Members of the group include representatives from the CFA, Forest Fire Management, Yarra Ranges Council, Kalorama-Mount Dandenong brigade and local residents.

A large amount of work has been undertaken ground-truthing the fuel loads in areas around Kalorama and computer modelling to understand and simulate a bushfire’s development and progression in the landscape.

From this work, priority areas have been identified for fuel reduction to reduce the overall risk.

Many of these areas also involve private property and these properties may be contacted by the council or the local brigade to reduce the fuel load for the benefit of their own safety, and the community.

If new residents are unsure of their risk or what they need to do to mitigate this risk, mailcommunity.com.au

Residents are urged to clean up their properties before the upcoming bushfire season. they are invited to contact the brigade for more information.

Having a bushfire plan is essential if you live in the area, and this must plan for a range of scenarios.

Community fireguard groups are also a great way to understand your local risk and provide opportunities to get to know your neighbours to reduce everyone’s risk in an emergency.

Picture: SUPPLIED You can get more information by contacting the brigade at the station on a Sunday morning between 10am and 12pm or by contacting the community safety team at commsafety@kaloramafb.org Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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MAIL 7

NEWS

Emerald celebrates Scouts

By Corey Everitt Many Scout groups are reaching their hundred year this decade and it’s Emerald that has been the first to celebrate reaching a centenary.

Emerald Scout Group held their hundredyear-celebration on Saturday 18 November at the Scout Hall seeing their group from Joeys to Rovers joined with the community to commemorate the triple digit achievement.

The hundred years has had its ups and downs, but to Group Leader Jeff Latter it reflects the continued strength of the Emerald Scouts.

“Emerald has been a strong Scout group largely for that whole time,” Jeff said.

“Everything suggests that is going to continue, we are just at a bit of a low point at the moment out of covid and that will start to catch up to normalities.”

The group’s formation dating back to 1923 is an achievement itself, yet Scouting seems inextricably linked to Emerald as recorded date Scouts passing through well before.

“We’ve gone back and actually searched out Scouts, we can talk about the history of the Emerald Scout group from 1923 to now, but the first Scouts in Emerald was in 1909,” Jeff said.

“Three Scout groups came up, camped somewhere, and went to Saint Marks on Sunday.

“Scouts only started two years earlier in the UK, so it’s really amazing that Scouting went from a concept on Brownsea Island to little Emerald on Puffing Billy line in just two years.”

Jeff started as Cub Scout for Emerald in the first half of its century in 1964, even though so much has changed in that time, its value still stands strong.

“It’s very very different now, obviously from uniforms changing to programs changing, the hall has changed from being just the one room to now this complex and abseiling towers and so on, that’s just amazing,” Jeff said.

“It’s about developing youth through their participation and increasing their self-leadership, it is about building their resilience.”

While the time may have passed, it’s still important to acknowledge those who have made such changes through history.

During the celebrations the Scout Hall’s fireplace was formally named the Legge Fireplace after the Legge family who have contributed immensely to the Emerald Scout Group and are all decorated members of the Scout movement in general.

The abseiling tower had a sign unveiled to finalise its name, which is in acknowledgement of former Group Leader David Wilson and Venturer Leader Colin Nunn who were leaders in getting the tower constructed to promote the group’s abseiling activities.

Various activities and celebrations were held over the course of the day, as now Emerald Scout Group looks to another hundred years more.

Special thanks were given to Federal La Trobe MP Jason Wood, State Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino, Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Jack Kowarzik and Councillor Jeff Springfield for attending.

Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino speaking during the commemoration.

Cutting of the centenary cake.

Group members and the community were invited to celebrate the centenary.

Graeme Legge receiving the formal honors for the Scout Hall’s fireplace being named after the Legge family.

The Legge family has contributed immensely and recieved many accolades within the Scout Movement.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

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Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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NEWS

Rural Rainbows support win

By Callum Ludwig EACH’s Rural Rainbows program has been recognised for the difference it has made to the health of LGBTIQA+ residents of the Outer East.

Rural Rainbows recently won a Victorian Public Healthcare Award for excellence in supporting healthy LGBTIQA+ Victorians.

Rural Rainbows project officer Teddy Easdown said it was very exciting and wonderful to have the efforts of their team recognised, especially the Volunteer Peer Leaders and the participants at the heart of the project.

“Our collaborative model with our participants makes the greatest contribution to their health. Young LGBTIQA+ people are the experts on their own lived experiences. Rural Rainbows shifts to meet the needs of those attending, so we have developed the group from initial guest speaker events to peer-led workshops and opportunities for young LGBTIQA+ people to learn new skills amongst local people like themselves,” he said.

“The community they have built by connecting with one another and sharing their feedback with project leadership has seen the most improvement for the space and empowers young LGBTIQA+ people to shape the services they need.”

Other finalists for the award were Mercy Health’s Safe Space Victorian clinic, which is the first publicly funded gynaecological service for transgender patients and the Parkville Electronic Medical Record (EMR) Diversity and Inclusion Project which was 12-month initiative between the Royal Children’s Hospital, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, the Royal Melbourne Hospital and the Royal Women’s Hospital to update their patient systems to better capture gender identity, legal sex, sex at birth, sexual orientation, pronouns and chosen names.

Mr Easdown said he thinks promoting

Rural Rainbows has won the Victorian Public Healthcare Award for excellence in supporting healthy LGBTIQA+ Victorians.

Picture: ON FILE health for LGBTIQA+ is very important.

“Rural Rainbows provides a supportive space for the local community to come together to promote their health and wellbeing; the greater challenge is making the whole of our Yarra Ranges and Outer East community a supportive space,” he said.

“I love that we are fostering confidence, connection, and community in Rural Rain-

bows, but the ideal would be that every time a young LGBTIQA+ person leaves the space, they trust that they can be totally themselves everywhere they go,” “If we can improve community health with fortnightly or monthly groups, imagine the impact the Yarra Ranges could make with educational speakers, local groups for parents and carers, localised LGBTIQA-friendly medical services, and more?”

Rural Rainbows held its first meeting at the former Lilydale Youth Hub in April 2022 and due to its popularity and a desire to make the program more accessible throughout the region, expanded to Yarra Junction earlier this year and is set to come to Healesville in early 2024.

Mr Easdown said the best part of Rural Rainbows has been seeing the growth of many of our participants over the span of the project.

“There are some young people in particular that I met as a Volunteer Peer Leader who I now know as a Project Officer, and their development has been so meaningful to watch and be an active support of,” he said.

“Initially quiet participants now attend at every opportunity and always have a new story to share. I love it, especially when someone brings a new friend, showing how their connections are growing outside of the space as well as within it.”

Anyone interested in joining a Rural Rainbows group or finding out more about it is encouraged to reach out to Project Officers Mr Easdown and Cath Arms at ruralrainbows@ each.com.au.

Mr Easdown said now more than ever they want to continue their efforts.

“I would love to acknowledge Adrian Teh, who founded the project in 2021 which has gone on to have such a powerful impact in 2023, and Finn Stirling for being a supportive, friendly lead for Rural Rainbows throughout 2022,” he said.

“I’d also like to thank Ally Greenwood and Debbie Stanley from EACH for supporting the project through its fast development to where it is today,” “It means so much for our participants, for our Volunteer Peer Leaders, and for myself as a young person who would have loved to attend this group if it had been around back in my own school years.”

Bella O’Hara wins award for her inspiring achievements

By Callum Ludwig A champion of Cire Services’ First Impressions Clothing Exchange (FICE) program has been recognised for her inspiring story of gaining retail-related skills.

Bella O’Hara won the Pre-accredited Learner Award (skills for work) at the Victorian Government’s Learn Local awards ceremony last Friday 24 November.

Ms O’Hara said she was honoured to win the award.

“Just being nominated was very exciting, for what I do in the community and being an advocate for disability means so much to me and knowing that I’ve been an inspiration for women and that people look up to me,” she said.

I don’t let my disability define who I am and I did feel a lot of emotions. I didn’t think I was going to win, but it’s good to win something that means so much to you.”

Ms O’Hara had found it tough to find work she was comfortable in prior to joining the Reconnect program and later FICE, where she volunteered one or two days a week at the Mooroolbark and then Lilydale stores, learning invaluable work and social skills that made her so much more confident.

Ms O’Hara said for those who volunteer at FICE, it makes it much easier to make the leap to find work.

“I have to thank Maria because she has been mentoring me and been my rock and my world for a year, I learnt so much about retail and what Cire do to help women find work or do all these events,” she said.

“I’m just so grateful to be part of a big community and what FICE has done not just me, just other people as well, I would recommend for anyone to volunteer at FICE because it will change their life, it’s changed mine for the better.”

The FICE program, operating out of stores in Lilydale and Yarra Junction, provides a safe space for women looking to find their way in the workforce or to get accustomed before returning to work as well as offering an array mailcommunity.com.au

Bella O’Hara at the Lilydale FICE store.

Picture: ON FILE of pre-loved and brand new women’s clothing at an affordable price to help community members look their best without breaking the bank.

Ms O’Hara said her time at FICE has helped her so much in her new part-time job at her local bakery.

“I’m enjoying every minute and every day that I do get a chance to work, a long way from when I first started at FICE, I was very shy, I didn’t know anybody but when I met Maria, she really brought me out of my shyness, out of my comfort zone,” she said.

I got to serve customers at FICE a couple of times and used the cash register, which I didn’t even know how to use to start and I love serving customers and talking to people.”

Ms O’Hara waned to thank Maria and Renee from Cire Services, her mum, her brother and sister Jack and Natalie and all of Cire Services for their support and encouragement.

Bella O’Hara receiving her winner’s award at the Learn Local gala.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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MAIL 9

NEWS

Knitters offer helping hand

By Tyler Wright An Australian knitting group is playing its part in sending warm outfits to those who need it.

Tecoma local, Jen O’brien, from the Australian Crafters’ Aid Network (ACAN), is preparing to help send comfort items to Ukrainian refugees in Poland.

“We were formed in 2019; we consist of knitters all over Australia and a few overseas, America primarily,” Jen said.

“We knit woollen clothes and we knit toys for children in distress, primarily refugees or people in exile or people that are suffering from the results of flooding, etc.

“Over the years we’ve sent shipments to Pakistan to remote areas that were affected by the flooding, we’ve sent shipments directly into Ukraine to orphanages, we’ve sent to Ukrainians in exile in Poland including a huge shipment of bears’ over 500 knitted bears which we picked which were part of a larger campaign run by Ryman Healthcare.”

Melbourne based members of the group met on Saturday 25 November at Belgrave Library, alongside two Adelaide members, to pack goods for the most recent campaign in partnership with the Australian Lions Club which will send 200 diabetic kits to diabetic Ukrainian refugees.

This month’s packing session will see 260 packs from ACAN members sent with the shipment - including a jumper, hat, mitten, socks and a bear matching up colours and sizes in each set.

“We get people to send in their knits from all over Australia and a few from America and we combine them into little sets,” Jen said.

“These are all pure wool or wool blend garments, beautifully knitted garments.

“ACAN operates out of a website which caters to knitters worldwide, there’s over eight million members all over the world and it’s called ravelry.com...that might be me posting a jumper, somebody from Queensland might post a pair of mittens, and we see the pictures come together; It’s really creative and really rewarding.”

Jen said the group has also partnered up with Tecoma Primary School, with students creating a handmade postcards for the packs sent overseas sending greetings from Australia with drawings of surfboards and koalas among other symbols.

“We’ve had feedback in the past that sometimes the mums value the cards even more than the clothes because it shows somebody cares,” she said.

For Jen, the work ACAN has done not only impacts the recipients but the “many people in Australia” that hear about what the group is doing.

“We just love what we’re doing and are uplifted and so proud to be part of it.

“When you’re a part of something greater than yourself, it really gives you a very warm, fuzzy feeling and makes you think about that there is plenty of good in humanity to counteract the horrors of war that these children

ACAN members met at Belgrave Library to pack garments set to be shipped to Ukrainian refugees in Poland with the help of the Australian Lions Club.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Students from Tecoma Primary School have created postcards to be sent overseas as part of the campaign.

A jumper, mitten and bear will be sent in individual packages to each recipient.

are living through.

“There are a lot of little old ladies out there knitting in solitude; especially during the

Network on Facebook and Instagram.

Those keen on joining a community and knitters and crocheters can visit ravelry.com

pandemic, it gave us all something to focus on.”

You can find the Australian Crafters’ Aid

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NEWS

Centenary celebrations

By Tanya Faulkner and Tyler Wright Boronia K-12 College is preparing to celebrating 100 years of being in the community on Tuesday 5 December.

Assistant Principal Cassandra Wright said the school was opened on 5 December 1923 with Mr Percy Jones as head teacher.

“There were 41 students. Enrolments grew to 120 by 1933 and new rooms added to the original one roomed building,” Ms Wright said.

“In 1950 approval was given to use the Church Hall on Rangeview Road due to the Dorset Road site not being sufficient to cater for the rising number of families in the area.

“The new school on Rangeview Road opened in 1951, with the original school on Dorset Road continuing to operate for junior students in prep and year one.

“By 1953 there were over 500 hundred enrolments and additions were made with grants and labour from the community.”

Ms Wright said additions continued to be required, as in 1972 enrolment reached 627 students.

“This included a canteen, enlarging staffrooms, principal offices and classrooms,” she said.

“In the 1970s, planning commenced for an adventure playground, school crossings and a fitness trail that would be of benefit to the school and local community.”

Outside hours school care was also inaugurated in 1988, followed by the computerisation of the library in the 1990s and an information technology lab in the late 90s.

The new lab brought 31 computers, an instruction computer and projection screen with it.

“In 2002 a fire destroyed many buildings, including seven vehicles,” Ms Wright said.

“It took three years for fundraising to replace the equipment lost in the fire.

“This dedication to fundraising has continued throughout the years. However, in 2003 a grant was received from the Bracks Government to rebuild the art room lost and refurbish classroom,. staffroom, administration, student bathrooms and Outside Hours School Care buildings.

“This was completed in 2005 including a basketball stadium still used by College and the community.”

In 2012, at the start of term four, the independently run kindergarten Allendale Kindergarten moved into the new purpose-built Early Learning Centre housed in the grounds of Boronia Primary School.

Allandale Kindergarten was initiated in the mid 1960’s as an outreach program by the Boronia Church of Christ, who saw an urgent need for a facility to cater for the needs of young families moving into the area, Ms Wright said.

“The new state of the art building was part of the Federal Building the Economic Revolution program and was valued at over $2,000,000,” Ms Wright said.

“Boronia Heights College was established as a co-educational state secondary college in

the NE corner of the City of Knox to provide a much-needed educational facility for the growing population in The Basin and Boronia areas.

Boronia Technical College was established 50 years ago in 1973.

In the 1990s, no longer a technical school, the campus was renamed Boronia Heights Secondary College, which coincided with the introduction of uniforms and surnames for teachers and more academic curriculum started to be offered.

Boronia Heights College was established in 2000, with a new vision and values, a new logo and uniform and a focus on outcomes - both academic and vocational.

Boronia Heights College was closed at the end of 2014 and the site was demolished in 2015.

“Boronia K-12 College, established in 2012 merged with Boronia Primary School, Allendale Kindergarten and Boronia Heights College on Boronia Primary School’s campus. It ran concurrently as the Rangeview Campus, until the Mountview Campus (Boronia Heights College) closed in 2014,” Ms Wright said.

Ms Wright said principal in the 1980s, Mr Harlo Bird, was instrumental in organising ‘Boronia Bright Lights’ – a chance to showcase

Picture: SUPPLIED

all different performing arts areas.

Mr Bird received an Order of Australia in 1994 for services to the youth of Australia.

“In 1984 the Safety House Scheme was implemented, ensuring students in the community we able to access a safe place at any time when out and about in the community,” Mr Wright said.

“In 1992 the Rotary Citizenship award was introduced for a Year 6 student to receive and continues today to recognise students’ contribution to the wider community through leadership and other endeavours.

“Productions ran during the 90s to encourage performing arts and bringing amateur theatre to the community. While these paused during Covid, we are looking forward to resurrecting them. presently community theatre groups use our Performing Arts Centre for productions.”

In more recent times, students have been part of many groups and activities connected to the community through the work current principal, Matthew Scammell, has done as part of the Boronia Revitalisation board.

“With Eastern Legal Centre year 4 students worked with older participants on an Art project at Boronia Progress Hall in 2022,” Ms Wright said.

“Some secondary students worked with older generations at Boronia Library through the use of board games.

“The ELC and Foundation, along with Children’s University participants connected with the Boronia Library to celebrate book week in 2023. From 2021 we have been the pilot school for the Children’s University Program run via Swinburne University which encourages students learning outside of the classroom, exploring community hubs and volunteering their time and expertise in a variety of areas.”

The school became an authorised International Baccalaureate school in 2021.

Students will dress up in clothes from en era they are interested in, from the 1920s to present day, at the upcoming centenary celebrations.

“We will have memorabilia from a time capsule as well as photos and any other memorabilia we can find,” Ms Wright said.

“We have expressed invitations to past students and staff as well as the school community.”

A special assembly will commence at 2.30pm on the day.

Boronia K-12 Primary School is located at 35-37 Albert Avenue in Boronia.

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AVONSLEIGH Avonsleigh News & General Store 445 Belgrave Gembrook Road BELGRAVE Belgrave Newsagency 1704 Burwood Highway BELGRAVE Woolworths Supermarket 1629 Burwood Highway

EMERALD Bell Real Estate 313 Main Street FERNTREE GULLY Upper Ferntree Gully Newsagents, 1202 Burwood Highway FERNTREE GULLY Glenfern Road Milk Bar , 83 Glenfern Road

MONBULK Monbulk Newsagency & Officesmart 76 Main Street OLINDA Monbulk Bowling Club, 11 Moores Road OLINDA Olinda Cellars Shop 7/540 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

BELGRAVE IGA 151 Belgrave-Hallam Road BELGRAVE Chandler & Co Real Estate 1689 Burwood Hwy

FERNTREE GULLY Coles Supermarket Mountain Gate SC Ferntree Gully Road FERNTREE GULLY Woolworths Supermarket Mountain Gate SC

OLINDA Ranges at Olinda 5 Old Main Road OLINDA IGA Supermarket 1526 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road

BELGRAVE First National Real Estate 1660 Burwood Highway Belgrave BELGRAVE SOUTH Belgrave South Motors 138 Belgrave-Hallam Rd BORONIA Boronia Mall Newsagent Corner Floriston Road & Chandler Road

Ferntree Gully Road FERNTREE GULLY Mountain Gate Newsagency & Lotto Mountain Gate SC 9b Ferntree Gully Road FERNTREE GULLY IGA Ferntree Gully, 107 Station Street

OLINDA Bell Real Estate 11 Main Road SASSAFRAS Sassafras General Store 391 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road SILVAN Shell Princi Motors, 275 - 277 Monbulk Road

COCKATOO Ranges First National Shop 2, 24 McBride Street COCKATOO IGA Cockatoo 34 McBride Street

TECOMA BP Service Station 1524 Burwood Highway TECOMA Bon Ton General Store 1537 Burwood Highway

EMERALD Kaye Charles RE 12a Kilvington Drive EMERALD Ritchies SUPA IGA 342 Belgrave-Gembrook Road EMERALD Emerald Village Newsagency 4 Kilvington Drive

FERNTREE GULLY Shell Service Station 1140 Burwood Highway FERNY CREEK Ferny Creek & Post Office 195 Mount Dandenong Tourist Road GEMBROOK Gembrook Post Office& Newsagent 72 Main Street GEMBROOK IGA Supermarket 83/85 Main Street

EMERALD Woolworths Supermarket Belgrave Gembrook Road EMERALD Auto Plus More Petrol Station 365 Main Street

KALORAMA Post Office 1209 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road MONBULK Best Repairs & Accessories Monbulk - 26 Main Road

TREMONT Caltex Service Station 100 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road UPWEY Newsagent 18 Main Street

EMERALD Shell Service Station 336 Main Street EMERALD Barry Plant Real Estate 1/ 321 Main Street

MONBULK Food Express 128 Main Road MONBULK Woolworths Supermarket Main Road & Moores Road

UPWEY IGA Supermarket 62-64 Main Street UPWEY Yarra Ranges Shire Council 40 Main Street

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TECOMA O’Brien Real Estate 1567 Burwood Highway TECOMA McDonald’s Restaurant 1529 Burwood Highway THE PATCH The Patch Store and Post office 16 The Patch Road

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MAIL 11

NEWS

ADVERTORIAL

Picture: Stewart Chambers

Burrinja Celebrates 25 Years: A Silver Jubilee of Community and Culture In the heart of our community, nestled against the backdrop of the Dandenong Ranges, stands Burrinja.

This cultural haven, built by the community, for the community, is celebrating a remarkable milestone its 25th anniversary. On Sunday, December 3rd, from noon onwards, Burrinja invites everyone to join in the festivities, marking a quarter-century of being the place where community and culture harmoniously collide.

MANIAX is set to open up a venue at Knox Ozone in the new year.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Get in for your chop

By Tyler Wright

One of the highlights of the anniversary celebration is the transformation of Burrinja's main gallery into a captivating journey through its history. From its humble beginnings as a grassroots community hub to its current stature, visitors can delve into the challenges, successes, and pivotal moments that have shaped Burrinja.

Gallery 02 will showcase Burrinja's identity through past Visual Arts exhibitions, adorning its walls with the vibrant expressions of creativity that have graced its spaces over the years. In Gallery 03,

The celebration extends beyond the confines of the gallery walls. The DARanged Foyer Gallery Takeover promises a riot of grassroots, street art, and guerrilla activity. It's a celebration of resilience and community spirit, a testament to the fact that Burrinja was not sold to developers but entrusted to the people. This gallery takeover invites everyone to make merry and re-occupy the space that holds so many memories.

For those looking to bring a piece of Burrinja's artistic spirit home, the AERIE Art Sale offers a chance to shop ethically and support local creatives. The art pieces, wearable and wall-friendly, along with cards, paper, and more, showcase the talent of the 17 magnificent artists from the AERIE studios at Burrinja.

It's an opportunity to give the gift of art, a present that keeps on giving, resonating with the ethos of community support that Burrinja has stood for over the last 25 years.

A heartfelt invitation from Burrinja to the community echoes the sentiment: "Dear Community, your arts and cultural centre is turning 25! (Time flies when you are making and sharing art.) We would love for you to come and celebrate this milestone with us."

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.AN AFTERNOON WITH MAROONDAH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

.BURRINJA TURNS 25 25th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

03.12.23 @ 2PM | THE PARK AT BURRINJA

03.12.23 FROM 12PM | BURRINJA

12652608-SN48-23

A Wantirna South shopping centre is set to be home to a new axe-throwing experience for locals in the new year.

MANIAX Axe Throwing has confirmed it will be opening at Knox Ozone after Knox City Council issued planning permits for building and works and advertising signage associated with a food and drinks premises at shop 9070/509 Burwood Highway.

Westfield Knox centre manage Kristian Nicholls said the centre is pleased to be welcoming a diverse range of experiences as part of the transformation of Westfield Knox.

“MANIAX Axe Throwing is another great experience that will open within the Knox Ozone early next year,” Mr Nicholls said.

“We have no further updates to share at this stage.”

MANIAX’s head of sales and marketing, Aaron Hocking, said there are different things the venue can offer as well as the axe throwing experience.

“It’s perfect for work team building, hens parties and bucks parties and bigger groups,” Mr Hocking said.

“But then we also have another, another single-lane offering that we do too, which is great for a small group of friends or a date night.

“We have a cocktail bar where we do Viking -inspired cocktails and we have our own craft beer and a range of different local craft beers

and wine and soft drinks as well, and then we have a food offering as well, so we do brisket burgers and pulled pork burgers and wings and ribs and pizzas; so people that want to refuel after their session, we’ve got plenty of options for them too.”

Mr Hocking said the company wanted to expand to the eastern suburbs of Melbourne after demand from customers at MANIAX’s two other venues in the city.

“We’ve got two other venues in Melbourne and to be completely honest, we have so many people from the east of Melbourne that come and love our venue in the city and they’re like ‘oh, when are you coming out east?’

“We’ve listened and made the move out; we found a great site at the ozone there at Knox, so obviously there’s lots of other sort of different entertainment and food and drink experiences out there as well.

“It was just the perfect location for us.”

It comes as Westfield Knox unveiled a new fashion and lifestyle precinct of level two of the centre with UNIQLO, JD Sports, Glue Store and General Pants Co now open to customers.

As part of a $355 million transformation, the centre has opened a full-sized FIBA grade basketball court and nature-inspired outdoor kids play space as well as approximately 50 retail partners and food hall experiences including Woolworths and ALDI supermarkets.

Over 20 new and existing business partners, including rebel and JB Hi-Fi are also now trading on level two of the centre.

On Sunday afternoon, Burrinja will come alive with live performances, art exhibitions, workshops, speeches, and a special afternoon tea. The celebration is not just a reflection on the past but a contemplation of what the next 25 years might hold for this cultural cornerstone.

curated items from Burrinja's collection will offer a rare glimpse into the extensive acquisitions that have enriched the cultural tapestry of the region.

learn more at burrinja.org.au

Burrinja Cultural Centre Wurundjeri Country, 351 Glenfern Rd, Upwey, Vic 3158. Wed - Sun | 10am-4pm 03 9754 8723 | hello@burrinja.org.au

It is part of a $355 million transformation to Westfield Knox. mailcommunity.com.au

Image Credits: Bluzal Field, Archiving the Future, 2023, Digital Collage • 2010 - 2011 Burrinja Exhibition The Melbourne Reef• The Contingent at Two Floors Photo: Darren Clarke • Burrinja Turns 25 Photo Stewart Chambers

Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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MAIL 13

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Up-and-coming Ranges band

By Tyler Wright An up and coming local band is making their mark on the music scene after an electric first year performing.

BOTH - an emerging outfit from the Dandenong Ranges - offer an eclectic mix of jazz infused hip-hop, surf rock, smooth drums and rich vocals.

Made up of guitarist Ahren Tampiyappa, rapper Sam Getson, vocalist Lelu Bachsinar Ball, drummer Declan Collins and Banjo Koster - the band records from a home studio at Ahren’s home in Silvan.

“We started back in 2020, It was actually a school lockdown project,” Ahren said.

“At the time it was just Sam and myself, and because it was lock down and we go to a Steiner school, which is quite an alternative school, instead of doing schoolwork for the whole year, [the teacher] asked us to come up with a project and Sam and I’s project was we were going to write a musical about the life of Martin Luther King.

“We actually wrote 10 songs in the end about his life and at the end we were kind of like well ‘why stop now? this is good fun’ - I learned how to produce and we both learned how to write better songs.”

At the end of 2022, after deciding to remake one of the songs from their original album, the duo asked Lelu - a family friend of Ahren’s - to

BOTH are an emerging musical outfit hailing from the Dandenong Ranges. Picture: SUPPLIED take over the role as vocalist in the band.

Accompanied live by Declan and Banjo, the group performed at Warrandyte Festival’s ‘battle of the bands’ and ended up winning the title in their first ever gig.

“The main thing of main lots of people have told us is that what our what our music sounds like is quite unique; it’s quite different because it’s not common to have a female vocalist with R&B and jazz influences over the top of some Aussie hip hop, and the actual instrumentation can be like Australian surf rock almost at times, so it’s all just a mix of different things,” Ahren said.

Inspiration for the band members are drawn from the ’60s sounds of Aretha Franklin and Etta James for melodies, with more modern artists including the late Mac Miller and Sticky Fingers inspiring song production. “[It’s] really different and not something that you kind of hear a lot from sort of around where we are,” Lelu said.

“When Sam is writing his verses we cross each other a bit once we hear a track and we find an idea of what we want the vibe to be.”

A headlining gig at Belgrave’s Sooki Lounge in Belgrave drew in 230 punters and fully packed out the venue.

“It was just an incredible experience for all of us, and since then we’ve continued to keep going, keep writing,“ Ahren said.

The prize from the battle of the bands competition was time in an official studio; giving the band a chance to write their most recent single, ‘Keeping Me Around,’ which launches on Friday 24 November at 5pm.

It’s set to bring a nostalgic summer time

track to the band’s discography.

“It was one of the best recording sessions we had because it was so productive and creative,“ Sam added.

“We did the melody on the guitar and then Lelu did some keys and then we went from there...I started writing my verse in the studio and then Lelu was writing her verse and it all came together.

“I feel like that’s the best way we work, but we’ve only been doing this for a year, so we’re still working all that stuff out; especially our sound.“ Sam said the band has joked about touring Australia in 2024, with the band keen on continuing to play live.

“I think it’ll be great to get some more gigs, especially in the city,“ he said.

“Things to do next year a lot is maybe play some more festivals because they seem to be more accommodating to [underage performers].

“It would be great to get some radio play as well; we’d love to get some Triple R, those smaller ones; that’s a very big achievement and would really mean a lot to us.“ To listen to BOTH’s music, visit their profile on Spotify and Apple Music.

To follow their live music journey, you can follow them on Instagram at the handle @ bothmusicc

Grand ‘anthems’: Orchestra bringing heritage to residents

By Tyler Wright The Dandenong Ranges Orchestra is preparing to bring a slice to international culture to Mooroolbark this week.

The orchestra’s final concert for 2023, ‘More Than Music,’ will feature a selection of the world’s favourite ’unofficial anthems’ - including songs Finlandia, Londonderry Air and Pomp and Circumstance.

Orchestra manager Anne Elizabeth said the concert, set to be held at the Mooroolbark Community Centre on Sunday 3 December, will take attendees on a “journey around the world”.

“We’ve got music from Finland, Ireland, the UK, even Australia,” Elizabeth said.

“We’re playing music that is readily iden-

The Dandenong Ranges Orchestra performed in May this year at the Tecoma Uniting Church, Tecoma.

Picture: SUPPLIED tified with those particular countries, and they can even be said to be their unofficial national anthems like Waltzing Matilda

is for Australia.

“It means more than music; they are music pieces, but [they help] people identify with their country.“ The Dandenong Ranges Orchestra - a full ensemble - has been going for 40 years, and is based out of Upwey High School.

Elizabeth said it gives the opportunity for locals to play music without having to travel to the city.

“Music is very unifying - and that’s the other thing about the pieces we’re playing [at this concert]- they express the identity of a country coming from the grassroots as opposed to the official national anthem which is usually chosen by the government.

“These songs like [Ireland’s] Danny Boy

and [Australia’s] Waltzing Matilda, they’re chosen by the people because it binds you to your culture; It also helps you express your culture to another culture.“ The concert will start at 2pm, with tickets available online at dro.org.au and at the door.

Tickets for adults are priced at $25, with a $20 for a concession ticket.

Under 12s go free.

The Mooroolbark Community Centre is located at 125 Brice Avenue Mooroolbark.

For more information, email musicofthedro@gmail.com The event is supported by Yarra Ranges Council.

Sun-warmed and succulent: What’s more in a fruit?

By Maria Millers ‘An apple is an excellent thing—until you have tried a peach’. George du Maurie Anyone who has bitten into a just-picked peach, warmed by the sun and ripe enough to be eaten straight away would be in total agreement with Punch cartoonist George du Maurier that peaches are the near perfect fruit, celebrated in literature, art and folklore.

A ready to eat peach should be fragrant and juicy with just the right amount of sweetness and should yield to gentle pressure. Its colouring should be a combination of red golden yellow and blush pink.

But walk into any major supermarket at the height of stone fruit season and you’ll not experience that heady aroma which some may remember from childhood visits to the local fruiterer, or from a bowl of just picked backyard grown fruit .Or fruit stolen from a nearby orchard!

Commercially grown peaches are generally not ready for eating straightway, and often fail to ripen, remaining acidic, lacking the flavour this ancient fruit promises and often softening to an inedible brown and mealy consistency.

Speaking to Rad from Rayners Stone Fruit Orchard, he was adamant that the reason fruit from big retailers disappoints was that it’s picked too early. A long shelf life does not suit stone fruit. Although peaches and nectarine (a variety of peaches) do soften and become juicier and more aromatic after harvest, they don’t 14 MAIL

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Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

WOORILLA WORDS get any sweeter. That requires picking the fruit at the highest possible maturity.

The number of orchards around Melbourne have been drastically reduced and that is particularly so for stone fruits. The famous food bowl that encircled Melbourne and allowed the city to have easy access to freshly grown produce is now part of the urban sprawl. We have to rely on food grown further and further away and therefore picked too early and often stored incorrectly.

Whether it is seen as a fruit of the gods or as a symbol of love and eroticism, the peach continues to hold a special place in the cultural and religious traditions of many cultures around the world, representing longevity, immortality, fertility, and prosperity.

The voluptuousness of the peach also lends itself in art and literature to being a symbol of eroticism and the bountiful harvest and abundance of nature. English Romantic poet John

Keats wrote provocatively how he experienced eating a peach while writing (presumably poetry): ‘talking of Pleasure, this moment I was writing with one hand, and with the other holding to my Mouth a Nectarine, good God how fine. It went down soft, pulpy, slushy, oozy all its delicious embonpoint melted down my throat like a large beatified Strawberry.’

Embonpoint being the plump or fleshy part of a person’s body, particularly a woman’s breast.

With the rise of social media and the advent of emojis, the peach emoji is a symbol of the buttocks or a playful reference to sexuality.

And since peaches are most delicious when ripe and freshly picked, they are linked to an ideal of beauty and youth. To this day, youth is still one of the most appealing traits in a person, and peaches as they lose their freshness, and their downy skin wrinkles remind us that youth, so wonderful, is yet so fleeting.

D H Lawrence considers the peach from the stage of “silvery peach blossoms’ in a wine glass to a mature peach just before he eats it and marvels at it being so ‘velvety’ and ‘voluptuous heavy’ with its ‘lovely, bivalve roundnesses’ and wonders ‘Why so indented? And not ‘round and finished like a billiard ball?’ It puzzles him how this ‘rolling, dropping heavy globule’ evolved from the blossom to what it is. But nature is not perfect in its multitude of variations, unlike something man made and that’s the wonder of it.

Peach

by D. H. Lawrence WOULD you like to throw a stone at me?

Here, take all that’s left of my peach.

Blood-red, deep; Heaven knows how it came to pass.

Somebody’s pound of flesh rendered up.

Wrinkled with secrets?

And hard with the intention to keep them.

Why, from silvery peach-bloom, From that shallow-silvery wine-glass on a short stem This rolling, dropping, heavy globule?

I am thinking, of course, of the peach before I ate it.

Why so velvety, why so voluptuous heavy?

Why hanging with such inordinate weight?

Why so indented?

Why the groove?

Why the lovely, bivalve roundnesses?

Why the ripple down the sphere?

Why the suggestion of incision?

Why was not my peach round and finished like a billiard ball?

It would have been if man had made it.

Though I’ve eaten it now.

But it wasn’t round and finished like a billiard ball.

And because I say so, you would like to throw something at me.

Here, you can have my peach stone. mailcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Building a healthy lifestyle You can get a lot of satisfaction helping people, with one couple doing just that through the health food and drinks they make. ERLE LEVEY talks to Tania Wiesmayr-Freeman, whose parents’ five-acre property in Monbulk sparked an ever-growing interest in food from a young age, and her partner - Warragul-born Andrew Freeman.

A pain in the guts ... how often have we heard that term in Australia?

The good news is that businesses such as those run by Tania Wiesmayr-Freeman and Andrew Freeman are producing food that not only tastes good but is good for us.

It’s no secret that many Australian’s struggle to maintain a healthy diet.

For Andrew and Tania at The Fermentier, their mission is to overcome this challenge with delicious, natural, living fermented food and drinks.

Sitting with them at their factory and retail outlet at Kunda Park in Queensland, they tell me about their amazing journey - one that has taken them through several Australian states and territories as well as South Africa.

Their shop is a real surprise - a cafe set among warehouses and storage yards.

There, over a tasting table of kombucha, kimchi and sauerkraut, Tania tells me about her transition from nursing to dietician and food producer.

Born in Melbourne, Tania owes much of her entrepreneurial drive to her parents, who grew up during the Second World War. Her father came to Australia from Austria in the 1950s - not by ship from Europe but by plane and he saw the ocean for the first time when they stopped in Darwin.

Austria is a land-locked country and he came from a farming community on the Danube River, near Linz.

Eferding is where they grow beautiful vegetables, and is the second oldest walled city in Austria.

Her father, Alfred, migrated as a single man, with six of his friends. They had a world map and had to decide between Canada and Australia.

“They walked away from any inheritance and made their way to Australia.

“They had a pledge and all met again years later. The six of them, in Melbourne.

“Eventually Dad went to Bonnegilla on the Victoria-New South Wales border.

“He thought he was in heaven because the amount of food on their plate was so much more than what they’d been used to during the war years in Europe.

“His eyes popped out of his head - he was given food, he could play football. They could look for jobs and swim in the Murray River.

“Straight away he went to night school. He was already a weaver and he could make linen.

“I still have some of the pieces that he made as well as his trade books.’’

Showing the drive that Tania would inherit, her father completed his Leaving Certificate.

During that time he made friends with another man at night school in Melbourne who had a sister. She was from the western suburb of Williamstown.

It was a housing commission area back then and Janet was one of seven children.

So Alfred Wiesmayr and Janet White were married.

“His grandparents had run a pub and I am brewing drinks now,’’ Tania laughs.

“Dad was a teetotaller and converted from Roman Catholic to Evangelical.

“They bought a five-acre property in Monbulk in the Dandenong Ranges. Lots of fruit trees but no money, so they did a lot of preserving of fruit and vegetables.

“Mum learned from cooking for the large family and that’s what started my interest.

“Dad became an analytical chemist and theological pastor.

“There were so many other European immigrants he would sponsor from the ships to get jobs.

“We would have big dinners and I would learn about food there.’’

Andrew, on the other hand, had quite a different family background.

McMillan is a traditional British family name and they came to Australia as shared farmers.

Tania’s mother had married an Austrian, her mailcommunity.com.au

Andrew Freeman and Tania Wiesmayr-Freeman re-stock the display at The Fermentier factory/ outlet. uncle had married a Spanish artist, another was awarded a Churchill fellowship for education.

It was a diverse family, very artistic and unusual for that time to have such a rich cultural background.

Andrew grew up in Warragul in Victoria.

His father was initially a teacher, but became an agricultural machinery engineer and used to design shearing sheds in line with the changes in the wool industry at that time.

The introduction of wide combs meant shearers could increase productivity and the design of sheds needed to keep pace.

He even wrote a book on them, and designed sheds for Dubai to make useful spaces in the desert.

Andrew’s holidays were always travelling around Australia or New Zealand looking at shearing sheds, whereas Tania spent her holidays in a laboratory with a petrie dish.

“We met at a youth camp,’’ she said. “It was love at first sight, basically.

“Three days in and we knew.

“He was a carpenter. I was training to be a dietitian. We wanted to get married early, but in doing so we wanted to be able to live out each other’s dreams.

“I knew I wanted to go to Africa.

“He had never thought about Africa, but he knew that’s what he had to do to marry me.’’

Tania’s first job as a clinical dietitian was at the Royal Darwin Hospital and Andrew got work there as well.

The aim was to carry out a cross-cultural training course to enable them to go to Africa.

“My role was to tell people about the benefits of eating properly,’’ Tania said. “Especially people with heart problems.’’

Their intention was to go into the country areas of South Africa, up north close to Mozambique. Tania had to do an internship to be registered there. It was at a township on the outskirts of Durban with a 900-bed hospital.

“I got paid a local wage and Andrew helped on the maintenance team,’’ Tania said.

It was a time shortly after Nelson Mandela had been released from prison for his anti-apartheid activism.

He had become president of the nation from 1994 to 1999.

They were turbulent times and the hospital Tania worked at was filled with political factions.

It was about this time that the white majority rule was starting to collapse so there was a lot of tension, not just between the African population and the white population, but within the tribes within the different ethnic groups in Africa itself.

“We’ve lived through some things,’’ Tania said.

“The hospital was a melting pot … there were guards with AK-47s.

“It’s all an adventure though, all part of life.’’

While they had gone to Africa to fulfil Tania’s dream, things took a 180-degree turn.

Andrew became a professional sports photographer. It happened by chance when he met two Australian cricket commentators on the beach and they invited him to photograph a match.

He went on to cover the 1994 Rugby World Cup

and got to hold the trophy which had been presented by Nelson Mandela.

Back in Australia, they went to Tasmania and were based in the Hobart suburb of Bellerive for the cricket.

Andrew was in his element.

Then he got called as freelancer by The Age newspaper in Melbourne about a situation in Port Arthur.

They had got word of Martin Bryant coming into the hospital. Bryant is the convicted mass shooter who murdered 35 people and injured 23 others in the Port Arthur massacre. Andrew didn’t realise it at the time but he had a world-wide exclusive photo of Bryant lifting his head from the stretcher. Both Tania and Andrew are obviously up for adventure ... always looking for something different. They have different talents. He has gone from carpentry to photography to workplace health and safety, IT and data. Now he is operations manager at The Fermentier.

“He has now learnt what I know - but with big equipment,’’ Tania said. “He has taken it to the next stage.’’

Their partnership in life as well as business is somewhat like a meeting of the rivers.

“I’m learning the whole business side of things,’’ Andrew said.

“Tania’s father had that background, but my father was business minded - he knew accounting.’’

These were all steps on the journey to where they are now.

Tania’s father would study at night, work during the day in factories, then started his own laboratory. He would test soil and water, go to agricultural shows. He would do work for dog food companies and for a fertiliser company.

“He could turn his hand to anything,’’ Tania said.

“I grew up in an entrepreneurial family - Mum would sell seconds from the dog food factory.

“She would go to the Dandenong Market and while there, she would buy cases of vegetables and fruit and make a year’s supply of jams and preserves in the Vacola preserving jars. “I grew up with her, making do by cooking in bulk.’’

Meanwhile Andrew’s father was was very riskaverse, staid, analytical, clever.

He was designing how shearing sheds could be better utilised, how to improve sheep behaviour so they could be processed quicker - how they could flow more naturally and with less stress.

Raised boards for the shearers meant better ergonomics.

At the same time he was trying to value-add for the farmers. There was no fee as they had already paid for it through the wool clip.

After Tasmania, Tania and Andrew moved back to Melbourne, which was where they had their children.

Perhaps their most dramatic life-changing moment came on a holiday to Hamilton Island.

“Just sitting there, with two kids, we wondered what are we doing in cold Melbourne?’’ Tania said.

“So I got a job at Hervey Bay hospital and stayed there for 17 years.

“Andrew worked his way up to occupational

health and then IT at the hospital.

“I was in quality and safety. Then I went back to the more educational side of things.

“I would be an instant investigator when things went wrong - see what went wrong from our side of things, like a patient safety officer.’’

Tania’s passion for food flipped over at that stage, even though she didn’t know it.

The Fermentier story started when they moved to the Sunshine Coast and she started work at the university.

“They knew I was a clinical educator.

“When I started as a dietitian, you didn’t say that in a kitchen. Now it’s turning the tables and it’s an expectation.

“It’s a whole new way of thinking, rather than having doctors tell you what to eat … it’s getting on a level understanding.

“People respect you more if you know about good food.

“It’s a different relationship now - the people who come through the university for instance, the athletes, know so much about food and nutrition.

“There’s so many other things to be aware of medication, treatments - the food side of Australia has changed.

“There is a new field called culinary nutrition that dietitians have adopted.

“We need whole foods, no matter what people produce in powders. You cannot replicate whole foods.’’

Tania and Andrew live on a suburban block that backs onto bushland so they have wildlife and rainforest walks.

It’s a good balance to her work in the laboratory and the factory.

At the university Tania met a teacher who reminded her to do things with her hands.

“I’ve always done that. I’ve done craft. I’ve done art. “When I was making the kinaesthetic‘s of squeezing kraut, just making things from food, I had an affinity with food because of my family in Austria and making sauerkraut - there are different sides to it.

“You can’t necessarily tell how it’s going to turn out … like sourdough in a way.

“People loved what I made and I would give it to them. And they would say they needed to pay for it but I would only rely on them putting money in an honesty box.

“The next step was crazy really. It’s not as if I had time, I’m still working at the uni, but I just couldn’t stop.

“We started The Fermentier for a good reason, not for any good business plan … it was passion and inner drive. “I just had to do it.

“It’s weird how these things happen. “Initially someone helped me for a start but then Andrew came on board. “We have kept investing in the business - that has been for nearly five years. “The product range has been kept pretty simple to start with, but there are some jams that are marketed at an outlet in Mountain Creek as well as the shop in Kunda Park.”

The story of The Fermentier is we have two people from different backgrounds combining for a new direction in life … both in their relationship and in business.

Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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MAIL 15

Luxury All-Inclusive Silversea Mediterranean Voyage & Trio of Italian Lakes 19 - 20 NIGHTS | JULY & AUGUST 2024

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12650261-ET48-23

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OPINION

Ridley Scott’s Barry Lyndon Napoleon Starring Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby Rated MA15+

4/5 Directed by Ridley Scott, Napoleon is a superbly-crafted historical drama starring Joaquin Phoenix as Napoleon Bonaparte, Emperor of the French and one of history’s great military leaders.

Moving fluidly between gravitas and gormlessness, Phoenix plays Napoleon as a master strategist but also an arrogant, naïve man.

Vanessa Kirby is magnetic as Napoleon’s wife Josephine, and the film delves deep into her and Napoleon’s fractured but loving relationship.

Napoleon is a slow but engrossing film full of dry wit. As with Killers of the Flower Moon, I like this kind of slow, dense, immersive pacing, but some viewers may find it tedious or

uneventful (and certain inaccuracies, such as Napoleon blasting the Egyptian Pyramids with cannons, may irk historical purists).

The harrowing, phenomenally-staged battle sequences, and three in particular, underpin Napoleon’s character arc. The 1793 siege of Toulon establishes Napoleon’s cunning, ambition and ego; the 1805 Battle of Auster-

litz – the film’s brutal icy lake centrepiece – is a victory at the height of Napoleon’s power; the 1815 Battle of Waterloo, with Napoleon now a petty usurper, sees his judgment fail and luck run out as the situation disintegrates.

Napoleon has strong thematic and stylistic parallels with Stanley Kubrick’s 1975 classic Barry Lyndon. Both films follow the rise and catastrophic fall of a charismatic figure in a time of war (and they share similar fates of comfortable exile).

Like Barry Lyndon, Napoleon has several beautiful scenes of gossip and intrigue lit with fireplaces or candlelight, but unlike the bright, crisp Barry Lyndon, Napoleon has a very muted colour palette.

An intimate character study with tremendous battle sequences, Napoleon is playing in most Victorian cinemas.

- Seth Lukas Hynes

CARTOON

Vaccine shortage impact Animal

aid Mark Menze Animal Aid CEO The heart of Animal Aid has always been our community and the amazing animals we serve.

Today, we face a pressing challenge that demands our collective action. A critical nationwide shortage of essential Feline F2 -F4 vaccines is impacting our ability to fully immunise cats in our care, particularly new arrivals who are at risk of illness.

The shortage, which could last until March 2024, has required us to implement a stringent mitigation plan to protect our vulnerable feline friends. We’re focusing on containment strategies, booster vaccinations for previously immunised cats, and meticulous recordkeeping to ensure that vaccinations are administered as soon as they become available.

Despite these efforts, the reality is that our unvaccinated cat community is at risk, especially with the influx of cats carrying illnesses. This situation amplifies the need for safe, temporary homes for these cats to recover and thrive away from the shelter environment.

Here’s where you come in. Our newly introduced Paws and Recover initiative calls for foster volunteers willing to open their homes and hearts to provide temporary care. This not only aids in the cats’ recovery but also offers you the chance to bond with a potential lifelong companion, as fostering can lead to adoption at no cost.

Your support during this time is invaluable, not just for the cat you take in but for the ongoing care of all our cats.

Your involvement could be the pivotal point in a cat’s life. By fostering or adopting, you help relieve the shelter’s capacity strains and give our cats the loving homes they so richly deserve. As we navigate these challenges together, every gesture of support counts. Join us in this essential endeavour—become a foster carer, adopt by donation, and spread the word. Let’s ensure no cat is left without care and affection in their time of need.

For more information on how you can help, please contact our Cattery Team at 8756 1300.

Local theatres announce programs of shows for 2024 Kemp’s curtain call 1812 theatre has announced its 2024 program.

Mother & Son – 22 February - 16 March.

The Fire Raisers – 4 – 27 April.

The Great Gatsby – 16 May – 8 June.

Radium Girls – 2 – 13 July.

The Sweet Delilah Swim Club – 1 – 24 August.

Coherence – 5 – 14 December.

The Laramie Project – 3 – 26 October.

Noises Off – 14 November – 7 December.

Bookings: 9758 3964.

Email admin@1812theatre.com.au

· · · · · · · ·

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The 1812 Theatre has announced its 2024 program of plays and productions. 305252 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS The Basin Theatre has announced its 2024 program opening with: Hatched, Matched & Dispatched Season: Thursday 22 February – Sunday 3 March.

Berlin Season: Thursday 18 April - Sunday 28 April.

· ·

the Beatle: Season: Thursday 13 June · Jimmie – Sunday 23 June. of Carnage: Season: Thursday 3 October · God – Sunday 13 October.

Bookings: 1300 784 888 Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre

Piece of Mind Australian premiere of a new play by local playwright Emma Wood, recently produced in LA. An hilarious dark comedy about two friends, Gwen and Allie, who leave their long careers as nurses to start a daring new business venture.

The concept is a peaceful room that can be hired on an hourly basis as an alternative to couple’s counselling. Couples are offered the opportunity to take turns playing dead, while the other airs their grievances without interruption.

The business plan is so unique it attracts a large following immediately. But Gwen and Allie’s intentions don’t match those of the clients.

A darkly comic series of events unfolds. Have they unwittingly opened a Pandora’s box that threatens their investment, their reputations and even their friendship?

Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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MAIL 17

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

18 MAIL

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Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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PROPERTY

SPACIOUS AND STYLISH HOME

PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

SPACIOUS AND STYLISH HOME THIS exciting offering in the heart of Tecoma is calling buyers who refuse to settle for anything less than the best. Encapsulating the elements required for an exceptional Hills lifestyle including impressive comfort, idyllic gardens, and an exclusive location only steps from Tecoma village’s schools, train station, bus transport, shopping, and cafes, this property confirms you can have it all.

The 1,079sqm (approx.) landscape this stylish residence sits upon is presented with pride from the sealed drive to the sprawling lawn areas for the kids to play.

Inside, contemporary indoor-outdoor design makes this enticing home feel at one with its surrounds.

From the covered front porch and oversize single garage access is afforded into this showcase home. Here you will discover a family-focused floorplan with expansive rooms and 10-foot ceilings. The enviable open plan living zone with polished timber floors is punctuated by a modern kitchen with large island, stone benchtops, gas cooker and sunny skylights. With one step, owners will enjoy a seamless flow out to the second covered deck with gorgeous garden views.

This impressive home also offers the versatility every family craves. The bright and spacious entry level bedrooms each feature quality carpet and built-in robes, with one also suitable as a rumpus room/home office with external access. Upstairs, the primary bedroom feels peacefully tucked away with its own walk-in robe, shower ensuite with WC, and split system heating/cooling unit.

With finishing touches including a ground floor bathroom with tub and powder room, a family-size laundry, gas ducted heating, solar power, under-stair storage, and a garden shed, quality is offered in abundance.

Primed to afford a new family a wonderful lifestyle, this exquisite property promises to impress. Prompt inspection is advised.

1,079sqm (approx.) property only a short stroll from Tecoma township Contemporary residence on lovely familyfriendly gardens Open plan kitchen with stone benchtops, gas cooker, and island seating Beautiful bedrooms including upper level main with ensuite and walk-in robe Covered outdoor entertaining area and an oversize single garage with shelving. ●

· · · · ·

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 13 Walter Street, TECOMA Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 garage Price: $1,195,000 - $1,295,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Brad Conder 0422 639 115 or Daniel Steen 0434 979 142, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 20 MAIL

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Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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HOME FOCUS

EXPERIENCE TRANQUIL COUNTRY LIVING NESTLED in the heart of the countryside, 285 Lusatia Park Road beckons those yearning for a serene retreat. This charming property, enveloped by picturesque farmland, is a testament to the perfect marriage of country charm and modern comfort on a sprawling 2660 sqm of prime rural land.

Captivating features allow you to indulge your senses in the spaciousness of this home, where soaring timber ceilings create an open and inviting ambiance. A magnificent brick feature fireplace and wood heater take centre stage in the living room, providing both warmth and character. Timber dado panels add rustic elegance, and slate flooring in the living areas introduces a touch of natural beauty.

The well-designed kitchen boasts ample cupboard space, and 3 of the 4 bedrooms feature built-in robe. The main bedroom, which is positioned at the rear of the house, has access to the verandah along with a large walk-in in robe along and ensuite to complete the picture. The high pitch of the attic lends itself to the possibility of creating an extra living space (STCA).

Beyond the walls of the house, the property unfolds with enticing features, including ample parking space, a convenient double carport, and the coveted privacy

of backing onto a 140-acre property. The sensational country atmosphere surrounding the property offers an idyllic backdrop for a peaceful lifestyle.

Step outside into natures playground and let the fresh country air embrace you. The expansive yard, dotted with established fruit trees, beckons for gardening enthusiasts and outdoor activities. Whether you’re cultivating a garden or simply basking in the natural beauty that surrounds, this property provides the canvas for your country dreams.

Immerse yourself in the serene surroundings and embrace the beauty of rural living. Whether you’re seeking a retirement haven or a family home where kids and pets can roam freely, this property offers the perfect blend of space, comfort, and natural beauty, with captivating views extending to the distant hills. The beauty of the property is that it is only just a few minutes’ drive to the township where shops, transport, schools, kindergarten and childcare are available.

Don’t miss the chance to make this countryside haven your own and seize your slice of serenity. Contact us today to schedule a viewing and immerse yourself in the warmth and charm of this property. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 285 Lusatia Park Drive, WOORI YALLOCK Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $940,000 - $975,000 Contact: Jane Nunn 0432 375 940, jane@integrityrealestate.com.au, INTEGRITY REAL ESTATE mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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MAIL 21

HOME FOCUS

MODERN ENTERTAINER ON HALF AN ACRE WELCOME to the pinnacle of modern living, nestled on the picturesque Woodlands Avenue. This contemporary two-storey brick home offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and space, all set on a generous halfacre lot tailored to meet your family’s needs.

This stunning residence features four spacious bedrooms, each thoughtfully equipped with walk-in robes, ensuring ample storage for your family’s necessities. The master bedroom takes luxury to the next level with a lavish walk-in wardrobe and ensuite, providing a private sanctuary for your utmost comfort and convenience. For added versatility, there’s a dedicated study or second living area, offering a flexible space for work, study, or simply indulging in the comforts of home.

The heart of this home is a modern gourmet kitchen complete with stone benchtops, a gas oven and cooktop, and a stainless steel dishwasher, making it a chef’s delight and the perfect space for culinary masterpieces.

You’ll be comfortable year-round with a gas ducted heating system and evaporative cooling, ensuring the perfect climate in every season.

Elegance abounds with timber look hybrid floating floors on the lower level, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Upstairs and in the bedrooms, soft carpets provide a serene and cozy environment. Stepping outside, you’ll find a spacious outdoor area surrounded by adjustable outdoor blinds, offering shade and seclusion. This adaptable space is ideal for alfresco dining, hosting gatherings, or simply enjoying the great outdoors.

The property also boasts serene tree views and the potential to expand your dreams with a levelled, retained section of land equipped with 3-phase power, ideal for a future pool or shed.

This exceptional property provides a tranquil escape from the daily hustle and bustle while maintaining easy access to local amenities, schools, and parks.

Don’t miss your chance to turn your dream of a spacious and stylish family home into a reality. Contact us today to transform this remarkable property into your forever home. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 4 Woodlands Avenue, COCKATOO Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $985,000-$1,080,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Dave Reilly 0437 347 665 and Sue Colic 0421 772 610, BARRY PLANT, EMERALD 22 MAIL

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Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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1 BIRDWOOD AVENUE COCKATOO

15 Clematis Park road CLEMATIS

34 Pakenham Road COCKATOO

SIMPLICITY & STYLE, AN IDEAL FAMILY HOME

CENTRAL EMERALD FAMILY FAVOURITE

SOUGHT AFTER COCKATOO OPPORTUNITY

4A

4A

3A

2B

2D RILEY NICHOLAS 0488 501 218

FOR SALE $740,000-$814,000 OFI

By Appointment

BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

2B

2D

FOR SALE $860,000-$890,000 OFI By appointment

SUE COLIC 0421 772 610 BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

1B

2D

FOR SALE $620,000 - $670,000 OFI By appointment

JUSTIN BARROT 0438 683 781 BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

4 Woodlands avenue COCKATOO

Lot 1, 220 Mount EirEnE road GEMBROOK

Lot 2, 230 Mount EirEnE road GEMBROOK

MODERN ENTERTAINER ON HALF AN ACRE

EMBRACE NATURE’S CANVAS ON 22.4 ACRES

DISCOVER YOUR SLICE OF PARADISE

4A

2B

2D

FOR SALE $985,000-$1,080,000 OFI By appointment

LAND SIZE 9.09HA DAVE REILLY 0437 347 665 BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

FOR SALE $700,000 - $770,000 OFI By appointment

LAND SIZE 5.19HA RILEY NICHOLAS 0488 501 218 BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

FOR SALE $800,000-$880,000 OFI By appointment

RILEY NICHOLAS 0488 501 218 BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

2665 Gembrook LaunchinG PL rd GEMBROOK

7 HEROES AVENUE GEMBROOK

15 WRIGHT ROAD AVONSLEIGH

YoUr rUrAL reTreAT – oN oVer 8,000m2

SPACIOUS ENTERTAINER

SIMPLY STUNNING ON 1/4 ACRE

5A

4A

3A

2B

2D

FOR SALE $920,000 - $1,010,000 OFI by appointment

mailcommunity.com.au

rILeY NIchoLAS 0488 501 218 bArrY PLANT emerALd 5968 4522

2B

FOR SALE $750,000-$795,000 OFI

By Appointment

JUSTIN BARROT 0438 683 781 BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

1B

1D

FOR SALE $690,000-$750,000 OFI

By Appointment

JUSTIN BARROT 0438 683 781 BARRY PLANT EMERALD 5968 4522

Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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MAIL 23

HOME FOCUS

FUN AND FULLY RENOVATED FAMILY HOME THIS fantastic home is seeking a new family to enjoy it’s numerous features, including being only 5 mins away from the heart of Emerald township.

With 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, two lounge rooms, and high ceilings, there is plenty of space for everyone. The master bedroom is gorgeous, with a vaulted ceiling, walk through wardrobe and renovated ensuite. There are two large bedrooms with built in wardrobes located at the opposite end of the home for zoned living, and one bedroom at the master end. The childrens bedrooms are serviced by the family bathroom with walk in shower and semifree standing bath tub, and then a separate toilet.

The second loungeroom is open plan with the kitchen for seamless entertaining.

Relax and unwind knowing that there is new flooring throughout the home, plenty of fresh paint, and gas ducted heating. The high-end finishes continue in the laundry with stone benchtops and a convenient doorway direct to the backyard.

The established garden is well maintained, including fruit trees, and invites you to meander around the property. Enjoy the paved rear entertaining deck, or soak in the serenity from the front deck. Discover the flying fox, mini football goal posts, and a solar heated swimming pool with its own waterfall and gazebo (with power)! There is also an established chicken coop, and a double lock up garage with concrete flooring and power, & a double carport attached to the home.

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

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

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 11 Maisie Road, EMERALD Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 5 garage Price: $1,150,000 - $1,250,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Aaron Day 0407 365 994 or Brennan Mileto 0422 996 451, BELL REAL ESTATE, EMERALD 24 MAIL

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Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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P 5968 6222 311-313 Main Street Emerald

Introducing our Rental Management Team At Bell Real Estate we know that there is more to managing a rental property than finding tenants and ensuring that rent is paid on time. Our dedicated team are rigorous in all aspects of property management.

From the initial stage of advertising your property, reference checking, carrying out regular inspections, ensuring that property maintenance and compliance checks are completed and works carried out with the least amount of fuss and cost.

Our processes also ensure that we keep up to date with changes in legislation so that our clients are fully protected, whilst ensuring that the best possible outcomes are achieved.

Looking for an exceptional team to manage your investment?

Contact our Senior Property Manager, Simone Donnelly on 5968 622 or 0499 072 202

100 Gembrook-Tonimbuk Road, Gembrook

$1,300,000 - $1,420,000

100 Woori Yallock Road, Cockatoo

$740,000 - $800,000

Stylish Equine Property on approx. 5 acres!

Outstanding Outdoor Entertaining with Stylish Family Home!

The expansive 5 bedroom, 2 bathroom home has a formal loungeroom & a master bedroom with a large WIR & ensuite. Near the master bedroom is a further bedroom with ceiling fan & BIRs. The home has high ceilings, double glazed large windows, & reverse cycle AC. The central open plan kitchen/ dining/lounge area is flooded with natural light, & offers a wood fire heater, & kitchen with a large walk in pantry. The kitchen has a 900mm gas stove/oven, & SS appliances including dishwasher & Caesar stone benchtops. There is a laundry with it’s own external access, a study/office area, & then 3 further bedrooms, all with ceiling fans & BIRs. These bedrooms are serviced by the family bathroom & separate toilet. Externally the acreage is divided into 5 fully fenced paddocks. This home utilizes gas bottles, tank water, has 4kW solar with 18 solar panels, & mains electricity.

The gravel driveway leads to a double carport & off street parking. Inside, discover a bedroom with a BIR. Then the home flows to an open plan kitchen/dining/lounge room with gas cooking, a generous butlers pantry with its own sink & dishwasher. Prepare dinner as your guests & family unwind by the wood fire or enjoy the split system AC. There is a lovely family bathroom/laundry with black tap wear, toilet, & a rain head shower over the bath tub. Continue down the hallway to discover 2 generous bedrooms both with ceiling fans & BIRs. At the end of the hallway is the master bedroom with BIRs & an ensuite with toilet & shower. Externally, there is a fully fenced large backyard with a large covered entertaining area with concrete flooring, workshop area, & a large garden shed. The garden beds along the retaining walls are very tidy & there is a large grassed area.

Aaron Day M 0407 365 994

Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451

Aaron Day M 0407 365 994

5

A

2

B

C

Brennan Mileto M 0422 996 451

4

A

2

B 2 C

bellrealestate.com.au mailcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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MAIL 25

HOME FOCUS

HISTORIC “HATHAWAY” FEATURED in Home Beautiful magazine in 1928 and held by the same family for nearly 50 years, historic “Hathaway” is a testament to timeless architecture paired with the warmth of a family home. A joy to behold set on 6,865sqm (approx.) of lush landscape framed by Copper beech trees, this residence will capture imaginations of architectural enthusiasts searching for their forever property. The original lychgate and paved drive lead into this magnificent property tucked between Mount Dandenong Tourist Road and Perrins Creek Road.

Boasting exquisite outdoor entertaining areas, pathways meandering past an original pond and sundial, and an incredible array of established flora enjoyed by a bounty of wildlife, this is a haven in the heart of the Hills.

Inside, the retention of the original features has been a labour of love.

Highlights including Jarrah wall panelling, leadlight and casement windows, and the original open wood fire feature in the lounge. The adjoining living area with gas log fire spills out to a flower-framed deck.

The generous kitchen with timber cabinetry, slow combustion cooker, and vaulted ceilings serves as the hub of the home. With a 3rd living area/inspirational study and unique bedrooms including one with loft also on this level, there are endless spaces to explore.

On the lower level, the rumpus room/ home office leads along a conservatorystyle corridor to the 5th bedroom, luxurious bathroom with claw foot tub, and versatile sitting room with cathedral window that leads out to the deck that wraps around a glorious Liquidambar tree.

This is a magical property that must be seen in person to be truly appreciated. Oneof-a-kind with a welcoming feel, this property suits houseproud buyers seeking something special. Inspection is by appointment only so contact us today.

Historic 6,865sqm (approx.) property brimming with beautiful features Open plan kitchen with vaulted ceilings and a slow combustion cooker Versatile living areas including the lounge with Jarrah wall panelling, leadlight and casement windows, vaulted ceilings, and a wood fire Lower level home office/study and sitting room with deck access Beautiful bedrooms including one with ensuite and one with loft Magnificent gardens with original features and stately mature trees ●

· · · · · ·

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 468 Mt Dandenong Tourist Road, OLINDA Description: 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $1,600,000 - $1,760,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Suzie Brannelly 0490 506 910, CHANDLER & CO REAL ESTATE 26 MAIL

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Tuesday, 28 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

12 Acacia Avenue, TECOMA

$680,000- $740,000 3A1B1C

RENOVATED STORYBOOK HOME WITH SEPARATE STUDIO

FOR SALE

$1,200,000 - $1,300,000

22 Viewline Drive, LYSTERFIELD

4A2B3C

SPACIOUS FAMILY LIVING

If you are looking for a creative, inspiring space where you can work from home and enjoy the character and an abundance of charm that only the Dandenong Ranges can offer, then look no further than 12 Acacia Avenue. Recently renovated and updated throughout, this storybook home offers a spacious lounge and dining area, oversized timber kitchen with breakfast bar, three upstairs bedrooms, the master bedroom with its own study / dressing room and a stunning bathroom that has been beautifully appointed from start to finish.

Beautifully detailed throughout, 22 Viewline Drive sits proudly in a highly sought after area and offers exceptional family living. With high ceilings, quality carpets and sleek floor tiles, this home boasts a welcoming floorplan that consists of four bedrooms, home office, two bathrooms and four exceptional living zones.

Sharyn Chandler

Glenn Chandler

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

M 0418 410 689 | E glenn@chandlerandco.com.au

Jess Lainis

Sharyn Chandler

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

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

FOR SALE

2A Kumbada Avenue, UPWEY

$550,000 - $590,000

FOR SALE

$800,000 - $870,000

131 Old Belgrave Road, UPWEY

NEAR-FLAT BLOCK WITH APPROVED PLANS IN PRIME LOCATION!

LOVELY CEDAR HOME ON LARGE BLOCK,

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).

With respectable tenants currently occupying this lovely property until the end of March 2025 a great opportunity to become a landlord awaits. This lovely 4-bedroom cedar home sits on a beautiful 1,103sqm approx block, with a bright and airy open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, and four large bedrooms. Currently tenanted, this is an excellent opportunity for investors who want secure tenants and/or for those who want to invest now with a view to making this their future home.

Brad Conder

Brad Conder

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

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

Daniel Steen

Daniel Steen

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

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

4A1B2C

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

Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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MAIL 27

PUZZLES No. 161

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

2

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

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

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS Plague insect (6) Coffee (8) Open shoes (7) Engine (7) Direction (11) Hormonal disease (8) Circumvent (5) H2O (5) Valuable hand-me-down (8) Keyboard instrument (11) Creates (7) Athletic ground (7) Extremely hot (8) Cure (6)

1 4 9 11 12 13 15 18 19 22 25 26 27 28

8 10 13 14 16 17 20 21 23 24

No. 161

Defeat (9) External forms of something (6) Copies data (9) Pink, wriggly creature that lives in soil (9) Express regrets (9) Official collection of data on a population (6) Jail (6) Machine for shaping wood (5) Fad (5) Pacifier (5)

DOWN Looped rope (5) Close friend (9) Country (5) Apex (6) Storyteller (9) Seasoning (5)

1 2 3 5 6 7

DECODER

No. 161

hard

2 8

3

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

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9-LETTER WORD

4

easy

medium

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”.

E

N

Today’s Aim: 17 words: Good 25 words: Very good

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

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

34 words: Excellent

hard

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N D

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

D

S

O

No. 161

3 LETTERS ACE ALL APT ARE ASH ASK BAD BAN CAR CAT DNA EBB END GNP HIM ODE RUE TNT TOO USE WOK YEN 4 LETTERS DAIS DASH DISC EYES HATS SICS STEP STOW TSAR WRAP 5 LETTERS ABIDE ACIDS ADULT ALIBI AORTA AREAS

* ( < 6 ( 5 6

ARENA CANON CELLO COCOA COMAS CORDS DENIM DOUSE DRONE ELUDE ENTER IDEAL INCUR ITEMS MEDAL MELTS NAVEL NOVEL OKING PACED

condense, CONDENSED, cone, coned, cones, conned, cons, dense, descend, done, donee, donned, dons, encode, encoded, encodes, ended, ends, need, needs, neon, node, nonce, none, nose, nosed, once, scene, scone, second, seconded, seen, send, sodden

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WORDFIT

PASSE PAVED RISEN ROSES SAGAS SCABS SELLS SENSE SLABS SLEWS SMEAR STEAM SWATS TONNE TRADE TREAT TURNS UNCUT URGES WADED

INGRAIN PATTERN VERSING

WASTE WATER 6 LETTERS ACUMEN CEASES NEARER RIGOUR SCORER SNIPES 7 LETTERS DIARIES GEYSERS GIRDERS

8 LETTERS ALLERGIC AROMATIC VENERATE VETERANS 10 LETTERS PRECEDENTS ROTISSERIE

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SUDOKU

01-12-23

William Matthews Funerals 24 HOUR SERVICE - ALL AREAS

9739 6868 45 Cave Hill Rd, Lilydale www.williammatthewsfunerals.com.au 12567433-SN37-22

28 MAIL

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networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services

0418 327 737

Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au (include your name, address and phone number)

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MAIL 29

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Monbulk steers home Monbulk’s 1s, 2s, 4s, and veterans teams all had awesome wins on the weekend, with the U16s in a strong position in week one of their two dayer.

The weekend was highlighted by MCC favourite Michael Adams making 100* and taking 2/25 in the 4th XIs strong win against Upper Ferntree Gully.

Further, young Lucas McIntosh made his first 1s half century, making 52, and sharing in a strong partnership with Aaron Powell to steer them home in the top of the table clash with South Belgrave.

The 3rds and 5ths fought hard, but came up short and will be back firing next weekend.

Unfortunately the U12s and Fast 9s were washed out on Friday night, but the Super 7s got a game in, and put up a great fight on Wednesday night in their match.

Scores: 1st XI - Monbulk 4/154 (L. McIntosh 52, A. Powell 38*) def South Belgrave 10/153 (D. Maher 3/33, A. Powell 3/24) 2nd XI – Monbulk 7/331 (K. Snyman 98, L. Jurey 42, B. Hooker 35, J. Wensley 35*, B. Trinnick 30) def South Belgrave 10/39 & 7/115 (J. Santini 4/8, E. Blenkiron 3/9 & 3/18, J. Wensley 2/17 & 3/26) 3rd XI – Monbulk 10/158 (J. Simmonds 47) def by Eildon Park 3/160 (J. Downard-Pengilly 1/26, S. Blenkiron 1/42, J. Mackay 1/52) 4th XI – Monbulk 7/256 (M. Adams 100*, J. Defina 30, C. Fraser 28, M. Bailey 25, W. Blenkiron 25) def Upper Ferntree Gully 10/141 (L. Tilley 2/37, M. Adams 2/25) 5th XI – Monbulk 10/132 (C. Spooner 61, T. Berman 27) def by Rowville 8/219 (C. Spooner 3/32, T. Berman 2/29) Veterans - Monbulk 3/144 (B. Grigg 40*, G. Ratten 22*, M. Cutler 18*) def Olinda 10/143 (L. Taylor 4/20) U16’s – Monbulk 3/91 (R. Tudor 28*, E.

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Star winger a ripe selection

By Tyler Wright A Ferntree Gully based footballer is preparing to perform on the big stage after being picked up by a massive AFL team in this year’s National Draft.

Wingman Caleb Windsor from Lysterfield Junior FC was snapped up as pick seven by the Melbourne Football Club in the draft on Monday 20 November.

The speedy winger has joined the Dees from the Eastern Ranges Football Club and Vic Metro, coming from the Lysterfield Junior Football Club and playing a standout game for South Belgrave Football Club in the middle of the year against the Mitcham Tigers.

“I was happy I played in that match, especially obviously now knowing that that would be my last game of local footy for a while,“ 18-year-old Windsor told the Star Mail.

Going into the draft, Windsor said he felt “a bit nervous, but mostly excited”.

“It was probably one of the best moments in my life, the best feeling I’ve ever felt,” he said.

There was also a special moment between Windsor and Eastern Ranges team mate and Nick Watson, who was drafted at Hawthorn just two picks before at number five, with Watson putting his arm around his friend in celebration “All the boys getting around me and also having my best mate, Nick, get drafted two picks before me [to Hawthorn] and then celebrating that with him at the same time was awesome.”

At 184 centimetre tall and at 76 kilograms, Windsor has a natural flare for booting long goals, Melbourne has said, boasting “plenty of qualities” in addition to his speed and endurance.

In an online statement on Thursday 23 November, Melbourne’s National Recruiting Manager Jason Taylor gave fans some further insight into what the new Demon adds to the club.

“He’s quite fast and covers a lot of ground as well, so it’s that speed and endurance combination,” Taylor said. “He really carries the ball and is a goal-kicker, so adds a bit of class.

“We’re just rapt and we think he can really grow into an outstanding athlete and is someone who we really wanted to add to our football club.”

18-year old winger Caleb Windsor (pictured) was picked as the number seven draft pick for Melbourne Football Club on Monday 20 November.

Picture: DAVID MCPHERSON/MELBOURNE FOOTBALL CLUB With his mum’s side of the family dominated by Melbourne supporters, Windsor’s family was there to celebrate the occasion.

“They love it, all season they were saying how good it would be if I went to the Dees, and then it finally happened,“ the former Rowville Secondary College student said.

“I caught my uncle shedding a tear on the draft night before my name got picked because he saw all the cameras coming over.

“My brother was more excited than me, I think he was over the moon for me; he’s been real supportive this year.”

During the AFL U18 Championships, Windsor averaged 16 disposals, 4.5 inside 50s and a disposal efficiency of 75 per cent - with Melbourne looking to use his speed and agility moving forward.

“When used offensively, he uses his pace to break the game open,“ the club said in an online statement. “When used defensively, he’s been seen to pull off impressive chase downs to switch the momentum of the match.“

All the more challenging during the selection period was the fact Windsor was coming off seven months with an ankle injury.

“I had to work a lot harder than some other people to try and get back, which is doing everything I could to get my ankle right, and then focus on my match fitness and focus on playing consistently throughout the season, which I ended up doing in the second half.“ “Obviously I want to get better in every aspect of the game; my goal is to make my debut and then maybe win a premiership on the way.”

In an interview with the club answering fan questions, Windsor said he prides himself on his defensive pressure. “[I] love to run and carry, and also go for tackles,“ he said.

When asked if there is a player he thinks he plays like, Windsor said he watches a bit of Ed Langdon and Josh Daicos.

“But I don’t completely model my game off them.

“I can’t wait to meet all the boys [at Melbourne] and get into it.“ Former South Belgrave head coach, Luke Galliot, said the club is lucky enough to have such a good relationship with Lysterfield Junior Football Club to feed through talented players like the newest AFL draftee.

“We get a lot of kids from Lysterfield and we’re lucky enough to get Caleb’s brother, Kai, the year before,“ Galliot said.

“Caleb committed to us after his under 17 years, already in the Eastern Ranges system the year before.“ While his brother played four senior games with South Belgrave, Galliot said Windsor was not going to play senior footy with the club, but a successful game against Mitcham was the instigator for a “huge back half of the year“.

“He wasn’t flying, but after he had come and had a kick with us, he played really well for us in that senior game, and then he went back with a lot of confidence; going from someone who might get drafted to go onto pick seven,“ Galliot said.

“I think having that opportunity for him to play a game with us really helped him“ Windsor’s movement is something that has stood out to Galliot over the time he has witness the youngster on the field. “He seems to have really good vertical leap, but [also] his ability to get in and out of traffic, game awareness, decision making; he just got himself in good spots in that game when he played with us. “He was a big part of helping us win. “He’s pretty quiet, he’s a really humble kid… good head on the shoulders, but quiet and professional by the way he goes about it.“ Galliot said having an AFL player come from the Hills community is “huge“ for the club. “I don’t think we are in a position to play claim too much to Caleb’s success, it comes back to what Lysterfield’s doing and we just really appreciate the relationship and the support,“ he said.

“In the grand final this year, I think we had nine guys that were 20 years or younger and there’s certainly more to come; they’re all mates and his brother Kai will be with us next year and beyond and he’s at Box Hill.

“We’ll be excited as soon as [Caleb] gets to it; he’s got all the attributes to be a really good senior player at the highest level, he’s just got leg speed and all the things they look for so he’ll do well.“

Monbulk licks their wounds after tumble from top four

By Jack Rollings The Bureau had threatened all sorts of storms for the day of the Saturday pennant.

But, at Monbulk, there was only a spot of light rain, a bit of isolated lightening, nothing much to take away from a good day for bowling.

Monbulk 1 travelled over to Lilydale to face-off in a battle to stay in the top four, with both sides going into this round having the same number of wins and losses. The playing surface was woven carpet, not too different from that at Monbulk. The day was set for close matches, but that’s not what happened.

Lilydale took an early lead and continued to grow the margin on the composite board.

Jim Bras’ team won the first end and then dropped the next eight ends to trail by 10 shots. On the tenth end Jim’s team picked up a six shotter to reduce the margin and give a glimpse of hope. But, from then on they could win only two more ends, while the Lilydale crew consistently stacked on singles, doubles and a couple of 3s. Monbulk lost the rink 10 shots to 26.

Eric Markham’s team also had trouble getting hold of the mat, winning only five ends for the day. They picked up a four shotter late in the day, but Lilydale, skipped by the legendary John Snell, finished with five straight winning ends, to regain and grow their margin. Monbulk lost the rink 12 shots to 27.

Brian Smith’s team dropped a five shot clanger on the first end and struggled all day mailcommunity.com.au

Irma Turner, from Monbulk, using a mechanical bowling arm. Picture: SUPPLIED to claw that back. Going into the fifteenth end they had reduced the margin to a single shot, but Lilydale managed to reassert their dominance in the race to the finish. Monbulk lost the rink 16 shots to 25.

Richard Sanzin’s team won nine ends out of the twenty-one, but most of those wins were singles, whereas half the Lilydale wins were multiples. Towards the end of the day, Monbulk finished with some winning ends, to trail by five shots going into the final end.

But Lilydale stamped their authority on the game with a three shot win on that last end.

Monbulk lost the rink 14 shots to 22.

Overall Monbulk was defeated 52 shots to 100, with no rink wins and no ladder points.

Monbulk has been tumbled out of the top four and is now sitting in sixth place, licking their wounds. Next week Monbulk will be hosting Upwey-Tecoma who sit in fourth place. A home win for Monbulk could result in a top four spot.

In a reverse situation Monbulk 2 played at home against Lilydale 4.

Marg O’Brien’s team had a close match all day with both sides claiming some big scores.

With two ends to go, Monbulk trailed by five shots. Then they picked up a big five shotter to level, and on the final end they claimed a single to just get over the line. Monbulk won the rink 27 shots to 26.

Andy Smith’s team was slow to start and didn’t get on the scoreboard until the fifth end. In the back half they started to string a few good ends together and, by the sixteenth end, they took the lead. The last few ends seesawed but Monbulk managed to finish stronger and took the rink 19 shots to 17.

Norma Clerke’s team won nine ends but gave away a few multiples in the front half that made all the difference. Monbulk scored better in the back half but couldn’t bridge the gap and lost the rink 13 shots to 19.

Don Barnetson’s team won eleven ends, so it could have been close. But their wins included some strong multiples that pushed their score ahead quickly. They were able to maintain the pressure right to the finish and take the win 24 shots to 16.

Overall Monbulk 2 defeated Lilydale 4 by 83 shots to 78. Monbulk is now second on the ladder, only four ladder points behind the leaders, Cockatoo.

Monbulk 3 played away against UpweyTecoma 4. With both sides sitting around the middle of the ladder, it was always going to be a tight contest, with the home ground advantage coming into play.

Mike Harris’ team, coming off a strong win last week, was brought down to earth this week, giving up 8 shots before getting onto the scoreboard. Amongst the losses were four 3-shot clangers, which made it difficult to claw back. Monbulk lost the rink 16 shots to 22.

Graeme Godkin’s team had a brilliant front half and was 10 shots up going into the eighth end. Then they dropped seven ends in a row to give up the lead. With one end to go, they were just 3 shots down, but just couldn’t make up the difference. Monbulk lost the rink 19 shots to 23.

Allan Brooke’s team had a close match all day. They won more ends but gave away a couple of big scores. They led by a single shot going into the last end but Upwey-Tecoma managed to grab the end with 2 shots. Monbulk lost the rink 19 to 20.

Overall Monbulk lost 54 shots to 65. They are now clinging to fourth place on the ladder but will have the bye next week, with no chance to score points. In the second half of the season they will need to put a few wins together to earn a spot in the finals.

Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

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MAIL 31

SPORT

Tigers officially streaking

By Sean Talbot Channeling the sage wisdom of manager Lou Brown from Major League that “we won a game, if we win next time it’s called two in a row, and if we win again it’s called a winning streak”, then the Upwey Ferntree Gully Tigers can officially be considered to be on a winning streak.

Coming off a great win on Tuesday against ladder leader and perennial rival Waverley (a 6-1 result in enemy territory), the Tigers carried the momentum of two consecutive wins to Cyril Molyneux Reserve to take on the Berwick Cougars who entered the game in third place on the Premier League Firsts ladder and walked out the victor, an 8-1 final score that reflected the dominance the Tigers showed on the day. Sending staff ace Jarrod Turner to the mound, the Tigers scored first in the 2nd inning after Staci Rogers got plunked, skipper Donavon Hendricks moved him to 2nd before Nick Rice laced a ball to left field to bring home Rogers.

The Tigers followed this up with a run in the 4th innings courtesy of a solo home run to Hendricks which would give Turner all the run support he would need as he continued his purple patch of form, continuing to show why he can be considered the leagues best pitcher as he repeatedly put up scoreless inning after scoreless inning and lowering what was already miserly ERA to miniscule 1.09.

The Tigers hitters exploded for six runs in the top of the 6th inning as they hit Berwick starter Craig Barnett out of the game and put the game well out of reach. Josh Hendricks led off with a hard hit single before Rogers launched a two-run bomb to left-centre, followed by doubles to Hendricks, Rice, Jack Ratcliffe and Peter Schroeders (the latter of which earned himself the nickname “Scarface” with a less than perfect slide into second base to beat the throw from Berwick’s centerfielder. Jordan Elliott followed the doubles barrage with a hard hit single to right field before getting caught diving back to first base to end the inning, but not before the scoreboard showed an 8-0 score to the Tigers who could sense a potential mercy-rule win on the cards. Turner returned to the mound, conceding the only run for the afternoon as Berwick’s hitters strung consecutive his together to get on the board, avoiding a shutout but still finding themselves down 8-1 and Turner well in control.

The score did not change the rest of the game as the Tigers kept putting runners on base but could not convert any further chances. Sean Meldrum took over pitching responsibilities in the 9th inning, needing just eight pitches to work a scoreless 9th and end the game.

Nick Rice was the pick of the hitters on the day for Upwey with three knocks and two RBI and was more than supported by multiple hits to Ratcliife and the Hendricks brothers, while Turner finished his day with 8 innings, 6 hits against and 10 K’s to his name. Now sporting a 5-5 record to sit back at .500, the Tigers find themselves sitting six-way tie for sixth place, sharing honors with Port Melbourne, Fitzroy, Sandringham, Moorabbin and Blackburn all of which excluding Moorabbin have recorded wins against the Tigers this season. Upwey return to Kings Park this weekend to host Sunshine who now find themselves in 3rd place after Berwick’s loss.

Upwey’s 2nds were not able to continue their winning ways, falling to Berwick 7-3 in a game they surely would prefer to learn from then forget and move on from as they found themselves playing catch up call day as the Cougars jumped them for multiples in the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th innings and refused to let the Tigers work themselves back into the game.

Starting strong for Upwey was teenager Ryder Wilson, who made quick work of the Berwick hitters before running into control issues and seeing a litany of Berwick hitters reach base in the 2nd innings as they took full advantage of the right handers inability to work ahead and bring his day to a quicker end than coach Simon Ratcliffe would’ve preferred.

It was not all doom and gloom for the Tigers however, as they put the pressure right back on Berwick in the 3rd inning and snatched a 3-2 lead after Joshua Christie-Dossiter walked, Ethan Jenkins singled and Michael Oxworth laid down a sacrifice bunt to put runners on 2nd and 3rd with none out. Manning Davison 32 MAIL

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Tuesday, 28 November, 2023

Seconds coach Simon Ratcliffe and batboy Archie Hooper. followed up with a booming 2-run triple before being scored by a Josh Yung groundball.

From here it was all uphill as Berwick jumped reliever Tristan Mealy who issued six free passes, allowing four runs to cross the plate and see the game run away from the Tigers. Josh Yung took the ball in the 4th and managed to keep it close, however it was a matter of time for the result before time and game was called and a loss hung on the Tigers.

Davison was the pick of the Tigers who could only manage four total hits for the day. Not all is lost however, as the Tigers remain at the top of the Premier League Reserves ladder and look to bounce back against cellar-dwellers Sunshine next week on home turf.

Sporting a squad bolstered by the addition of some veterans from the 4ths due to their walkover, the Tigers 3rds scored early and often against the visiting Cougars, taking full advantage of their extra depth, running away with an easy 10-1 win against a Berwick team which has seen itself on the receiving end of some rather one-sided results so far this season. In a game featuring various stand-out individual efforts, the Tigers utilized their strong mix of youth enthusiasm and veteran instincts to keep Berwick in the field for long stretches and ensuring the result wasn’t in doubt from the 2nd inning onwards. To their credit, Berwick made sure that Upwey continued to earn their runs, however they were more than up to the task and put Berwick to the sword as they flexed their offensive muscle. The win sees the Tigers improve to 5-2-1 on the season just

outside the top 4 as they look ahead to a road trip to Sunshine next week to take on an Eagles team that desperately needs a win as it looks to avoid falling into last place on the ladder.

As mentioned, the Tigers 4ths were handed a walkover by Berwick on Friday afternoon and did play, taking the automatic 9-0 score to post their 8th consecutive win of the season as they also travel to Sunshine, looking to improve to 9-0 against a team that can challenge any team on their day.

Travelling to Malcolm Blair Reserve in Greensborough to take on Doncaster Gold at their home away from home, the Metro League East 5ths took full advantage of the friendly confines of the ballpark as they proceeded to belt the Gold Dragons from pillar to post and leave with a dominant 21-2 win. The Gold Dragons were never really in the contest, as the Tigers put the game right out of contention right from the get-go as they inflicted maximum impact against a Doncaster team that surely would’ve been praying to forget this one as the Tigers continued to seemingly play with the difficulty set to Easiest. The win sees the Tigers improve to 4-4 and tied for 4th with Monash Uni as they look to continue their form this weekend against Melbourne.

Out at Pakenham on Sunday, the Metro League South 6ths made sure it was well worth the trip down the Princes Hwy as they took home a comfortable win against the Pumas, running out eventual winners 13-5. The win sees the team continue to develop and grow as they begin making a push towards the top

Picture: SUPPLIED of the ladder, improving to 4-4 to sit at .500 for the first time this season and sit clear in 4th place. The Tigers will have their work cut out for this this weekend as they take on 3rd placed Blackburn who will certainly provide some stiff competition and make the Tigers earn the points.

Down at Sandringham it was business as usual for the first-placed Lady Tigers as they continue the dream start to their season, scoring at will to take the points in a game that more closely reflected a volleyball game than a baseball game. While the combined Sandringham/Berwick team put up double digit runs during the game, the Lady Tigers were never truly challenged, jumping to a lead in the top of the 1st inning and putting pressure on their opponents all day as they continued scoring in all innings, avoiding falling into an autopilot lull that some teams can in a blowout. It truly has been a remarkable start for a team who snuck into the finals last season after a walkoff win in their final regular season game to now be the ladder leader and brushing aside every team in front of them. Chelsea Mosbey kept rolling with her dominant season, giving the Upwey hitters all the chances they would need while continuing to apply the brakes to the Sandringham/Berwick offense. The win, as mentioned, sees the Lady Tigers sit at a perfect 8-0 at the top of the Women’s Metro South ladders whilst looking ahead to next weekend as they host local rivals Waverley in what will surely be a game of the round matchup. mailcommunity.com.au