Ride of a lifetime
By Oliver Winn
For roughly 20 years, Nikki Liebman has lived a relatively ordinary life managing an autoimmune condition that affects her liver.
But in 2022, she got Covid-19 and everything changed.
Her world was turned upside down as she battled through life with a failing liver, constant fatigue and the uncertainty of not knowing whether she would be there for her two teenage daughters as they navigated their teenage years.
A liver transplant saved her life, and now she will honour the mystery organ donor by riding the iconic 80km-return Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail for her one year transplant anniversary in May.
To read more, turn to page 5
Ms Liebman will ride along the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail to honour her donor and to raise awareness around organ donation. (Stewart Chambers: 472091)
By Mikayla van Loon
Housing was also recognised as a key policy point by both major political parties, each announcing how they would tackle the issue last week.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said at the Labor Party’s official launch on Sunday 13 April
Housing affordability and accessibility may be the tipping point for voters this election, with many Yarra Ranges residents naming the issue as a top priority in Star Mail’s federal election survey. Some of those respondents spoke to Star Mail, noting that “there’s not one magic bullet” to fix the housing crisis, the cost of buying or renting, nor the trust of younger voters but key policies surrounding housing may sway votes in either direction.
that it would build 100,000 homes for first-time buyers, while Opposition Leader Peter Dutton announced an elected Liberal government would offer first home-buyers tax deductible mortgage interest payments on the first $650,000.
Yarra Ranges voters said however, “the Great Australian Dream has been taken away” from young people, even those with partners and professional jobs because of the cost of owning a home.
Concerns for those forced into homelessness were also raised, with voters wanting to see a holistic approach to supporting people and improving rental availability through better investment property regulations to ensure there was a range of stock to cater to all needs and situations.
To read more, turn to page 4
Where to head for the polls
The election swiftly approaches and and Election day is set for Saturday 3 May 2025.
Casey electorate residents will have many options to go cast their vote.
Polling places are usually located at local schools, churches and community halls, or public buildings and voters can vote at any polling place in their state or territory on polling day.
There are also mobile voting options that will be delivered by AEC staff. The teams will visit many people who can’t travel to a polling place including people living in residential facilities for people with disability, residential aged care, and in some hospitals and mental health facilities.
People who are blind or have low vision can cast a vote using the AEC’s dedicated telephone voting service.
In the Hills the following locations will be up and running from 8am to 6pm on the day.
Belgrave and surrounds:
• Belgrave South Primary School
175 Colby Dr, Belgrave South VIC 3160
• St Thomas More Primary School
Reynolds La, Belgrave VIC 3160
• Tecoma Primary School
1536 Burwood Hwy, Tecoma VIC 3160
• Upwey South Primary School
91 Morris Rd, Upwey VIC 3158
• Upper Ferntree Gully Primary School
4 Talaskia Rd, Upper Ferntree Gully VIC 3156
• Menzies Creek Primary School
12 School Rd, Menzies Creek VIC 3159
• Ferny Creek Primary School
34 School Rd, Ferny Creek VIC 3786
• Kallista Primary School
72 Monbulk Rd, Kallista VIC 3791
• The Patch Primary School
53 Kallista-Emerald Rd, The Patch VIC 3792
• Sassafras Primary School
399 Mount Dandenong Tourist Rd, Sassafras VIC 3787
• Monbulk Living and Learning Centre
21 Main Rd, Monbulk VIC 3793
• Olinda Primary School
45 Charlemont La, Olinda VIC 3788
• Emerald Secondary College
425 Belgrave-Gembrook Rd, Emerald VIC 3782
• Mount Dandenong Primary School
13-15 Farndons Rd, Mount Dandenong VIC 3767
Lilydale/Mt Evelyn:
• Billanook Primary School
270 Sheffield Rd, Montrose VIC 3765
• Macclesfield Primary School
405 Macclesfield Rd, Macclesfield VIC 3782
• Gladesville Primary School
48 Gladesville Dr, Kilsyth VIC 3137
• Montrose Primary School
17-21 Leith Rd, Montrose VIC 3765
• Silvan Primary School
10 White St, Silvan VIC 3795
• St Richard’s Primary School
672 Mt Dandenong Rd, Kilsyth VIC 3137
• Kilsyth Primary School
Cnr Durham Rd & Mt Dandenong Rd, Kilsyth VIC 3137
• Pembroke Primary School
25 Pembroke Rd, Mooroolbark VIC 3138
• Yarra Hills Secondary College (Mooroolbark Campus)
16 Reay Rd, Mooroolbark VIC 3138
• Mooroolbark East Primary School
106-112 Taylor Rd, Mooroolbark VIC 3138
• Mount Evelyn Primary School
33 Monbulk Rd, Mount Evelyn VIC 3796
• Mount Evelyn Christian Reformed Church
45-47 Birmingham Rd, Mount Evelyn VIC 3796
• Lilydale Baptist Church
305 Swansea Rd, Lilydale VIC 3140
• Bimbadeen Heights Primary School
118 Hayrick La, Mooroolbark VIC 3138
• Mooroolbark College
186 Manchester Rd, Mooroolbark VIC 3138
• Wandin Yallock Primary School
105 Beenak Rd, Wandin North VIC 3139
• Rolling Hills Primary School
52 Landscape Dr, Mooroolbark VIC 3138
• Victoria Road Primary School
44 Victoria Rd, Lilydale VIC 3140
• St John the Baptist Anglican Church Hall
Cnr Castella St & Jones St, Lilydale VIC 3140
• Chirnside Park Community Hub
33 Kimberley Dr, Chirnside Park VIC 3116
• Seville Primary School
639 Warburton Hwy, Seville VIC 3139
• Lilydale Heights College
17 Nelson Rd, Lilydale VIC 3140
• Coldstream Primary School
Kelso St, Coldstream VIC 3770
Healesville/Warburton and surrounds
• Wonga Park Primary School
41 Dudley Rd, Wonga Park VIC 3115
• Gruyere Hall Cnr Killara Rd & Cahillton Rd,, Gruyere VIC 3770
• Woori Yallock Primary School
1360 Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Rd, Woori Yallock VIC 3139
• Hoddles Creek Primary School
700 Gembrook-Launching Pl Rd, Hoddles Creek VIC 3139
• Launching Place Primary School
20A Carter St, Launching Place VIC 3139
• Yarraburn Centre
1-3 Park Rd, Yarra Junction VIC 3797
• Gladysdale Public Hall
5 Hazeldene Rd, Gladysdale VIC 3797
• Yarra Glen Primary School
35 Symonds St, Yarra Glen VIC 3775
• Wesburn Primary School 2850 Warburton Hwy, Wesburn VIC 3799
• Badger Creek Primary School
139 Badger Creek Rd, Badger Creek VIC 3777
• Millwarra Primary School (Millgrove Campus) 18-20 Cavanagh Rd, Millgrove VIC 3799
• Healesville Senior Citizens Hall
18 Green St, Healesville VIC 3777
• Healesville High School
10 Camerons Rd, Healesville VIC 3777
• St Andrews Primary School
15 Caledonia St, St Andrews VIC 3761
• Warburton Primary School
16 Horners Rd, Warburton VIC 3799
• Millwarra Primary School (Warburton East Campus)
397 Woods Point Rd, Warburton East VIC 3799
For more information on voting head to: https://aec.gov.au/
Funding promise for Warburton Mountain Bike Trial
Labor has announced a funding promise of $3 million towards the development of the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination if they win the election.
This announcement was made by minister Andrew Giles and Naomi Oakley on Friday.
“There have been multiple petitions with thousands of signatures in support of this track,” Labor candidate for Casey Naomi Oakley said.
“The Warburton Mountain Bike Destination will also provide fun new recreational opportunities for residents of all ages and riding abilities, facilitate a stronger connection to our beautiful local environment and encourage healthy and active lifestyles.”
Once completed, this project will be a world-
class mountain bike track that boosts national and international tourism in the Yarra Ranges.
This election commitment will go towards stage two of the project, delivering the final 25 kilometres of trail.
This portion of the track begins in Warburton and sweeps southward, branching out west towards the Wesburn Park trail head and east around the feet of Mount Tugwell, Mount Bride and Groom Hill.
The completed project is expected to attract 155,000 new visitors to the area, create 148 local jobs and inject an additional $31.5 million into the local economy each year.
The Yarra Ranges Council has advocated for this project.
Early voting sites for Casey
Across the Casey electorate, early voting will be running at a number of locations from Tuesday 22 April right up to the day before the election.
Hundreds of early voting centres across the state will be open progressively across the country from Tuesday 22 April 2025 and will run up to and including Friday 2 May.
Please remember to check the opening dates as not all early voting centres are open for the entire two-week early voting period.
Most will operate from 8.30am to 5.30pm weekdays, with a 9am start on Saturday 26 April and a late finish at 6pm on Friday 2 May.
All early voting centres will be closed on Easter Monday, 21 April, and Anzac Day, Friday 25 April. Early voting centres:
• Boronia - The Orchard Church of Christ, 59 Boronia Rd, Boronia
• Rowville - 1st Rowville Scout Group Hall, 61 Turramurra Dr, Rowville
• Croydon - Old Croydon Community School, Cnr Mt Dandenong Rd and Anzac St, Croydon
• Ringwood - Ringwood Bowls Club, 2-12 Loughnan Rd, Ringwood
• Lilydale - St Patrick’s Parish Community Centre, 40 Jones St, Lilydale
• Chirnside Park - Chirnside Park Community Hub, 33 Kimberley Dr, Chirnside Park
• Healesville - Darron Honey Centre, 286 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville
According to the AEC, you can vote early either in person or by post if on polling day you:
• are outside the electorate where you are enrolled to vote
• are more than 8km from a polling place
• are travelling
• are unable to leave your workplace to vote
• are seriously ill, infirm or due to give birth shortly (or caring for someone who is)
• are a person with disability (or caring for someone who is)
• are a patient in hospital and can’t vote at the hospital
• have religious beliefs that prevent you from attending a polling place
• are in prison serving a sentence of less than three years or otherwise detained
• are a silent elector
• have a reasonable fear for your safety or wellbeing.
For more information on early voting head to the AEC website:
The funding will go towards stage two of the project. (Supplied)
Election day is coming up (Unsplash)
Close call for Warby as fire doused
By Oliver Winn
It was a close call for the town of Warburton as local CFA units extinguished a fire on Mt Little Joe on Sunday 13 April.
The Yarra Ranges Crime Investigations Unit have labelled the fire as suspicious and have asked for anyone with information to come forward.
Warburton CFA captain Ron McIntosh said had the conditions been worse, the actions of the alleged fire starter could’ve resulted in the whole of Warburton going up in flames.
“Luckily we had no wind, otherwise it would have probably reached Powelltown,” Mr McIntosh said.
“We’d have to make tankers 20 go [fight the fire], we’d get aerial support as well - that’s how bad it could have been.”
Aside from the incredible effort of our volunteer firefighters, another surprising quirk stopped it from spreading further - the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination (WMBD) trail.
“Because the mountain bike track runs sideways on the mountain, it keeps turning back onto itself, so that definitely helped in that scenario.”
“I know there’s lots of people that say they don’t want the mountain bike track here, that it destroys the vegetation and all that, but in this scenario it actually helped us.”
“It gave us that little bit of a firebreak so that the fire needed a little bit more oomph to get across,” Mr McIntosh said.
Local CFA units were paged to reports of a fire burning along the Warburton Rail Trail at 6.30pm on Sunday and it took multiple brigades to contain the blaze.
“Wesburn were first on scene with their truck, followed by ourselves with two trucks, followed up by Yarra Junction with their truck, and then I ended up with another one of our trucks,” Mr McIntosh said.
The ground is still quite dry so the fire threat is still present, Mr McIntosh said, so it’s important people remain wary of potential fires in the area.
“The big thing is that everybody’s still got to stay on their toes because the fire season’s not over yet.”
Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) also joined at 9.30pm, assisting the remaining firefighters with blacking out the fire until it was deemed safe at 10.30pm.
Anyone who was in the area at the time, or has GoPro/dash cam footage of the incident must contact Yarra Ranges CIU on 97392300 or Crime Stoppers on 1800333000.
Operation Compass cracks down on road safety
Easter is traditionally a high-risk period for impaired driving, and police typically see an increase in impaired driving detections during this time. Operation Compass 2025 commenced on Thursday 17 April and runs through to the 27 April, encompassing the Easter and Anzac Day long weekends.
Police will be targeting high risk areas, with a focus on major arterials, holiday hotspots, and travel on regional roads to reduce road trauma and positively influence driver behaviour. In April 2024, there were 17 lives lost, with three quarters of these occurring on regional roads. Community effort to find Parsa
The amazing Yarra Ranges community turned out in hundreds to lend strength and heart to a visiting family as their worst nightmare unfolded just before Easter.
Emergency volunteers from across the district and residents of the hills came together to search, comfort and help in whatever way they could as a search and rescue effort got underway in Olinda.
The young boy who went missing in Olinda around 4pm on Friday 18 April was found safe and well. Six-year-old Parsa Naimi was found around 8.20am on Saturday 19 April by a local Kalorama resident, Asher Schinkfield, eight kilometres from where he went missing.
Mountain biker Asher was out for his morning ride on Saturday and had heard the little boy was missing, but did not expect to find him.
“I was coming up the fire road and saw him just on the side of the road,” he said. “He was just sitting cross-legged, tired and cold.”
“It wasn’t just the SES teams, the police force, or the firefighters who searched tirelessly for my boy. It was the local community — the heroes without uniforms,” Parsa’s mother Sahar Abedi wrote in a letter of thanks. Yarra Ranges Council 2025-2026 draft budget feedback
The Yarra Ranges Council’s feedback period for the 2025-2026 draft budget closes on the 27 April.
There will be a draft budget submission hearing on 6 May where ratepayers can present their submissions to councillors in a meeting.
Ratepayers can submit their feedback for the budget here: shaping.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/ council-budget-2025-26
The fire burnt 70 by 30 metres of bush on Mt Little Joe. (Jenna McCloy)
NEWS Key to unlocking votes
By Mikayla van Loon
One of the highest ranking issues for the urban area heading into this federal election was housing affordability and accessibility.
Nearly half of all respondents to Star Mail’s pre-election survey also noted housing affordability as highly concerning.
This went hand-in-hand with cost of living and a question around appropriate immigration.
A common underlying sentiment raised by respondents and interviewees was that everyone deserves a roof over their head.
“Everyone deserves the security of a homeit’s a basic right,” Mooroolbark resident Krystal Tutty said.
Lilydale resident Graham Warren, 65, who said he’s “done the hard yards”, now watches as his 13 grandchildren and nieces and nephews in their 20s and 30s struggle to buy a house.
“It’s so disheartening that the Great Australian Dream has been taken away from them and they don’t see any light at the end of the tunnel, either,” he told Star Mail.
“These are young people that have professional jobs, and they still, as a couple, can’t afford to or will always struggle in the current environment, to own a house, and it’s just not right.”
While many of them rent, Mr Warren said with rental stock low and weekly rent in the realm of $500 to $600, it doesn’t leave room to save for a house.
For fellow Lilydale resident, Rob Wigg, his concern was for the growing homeless population, forced to live on the street or in cars because of a lack of affordable housing and exacerbated by other factors.
“I am reasonably well set up financially, it’s just that I see families living in cars, women can’t leave a domestic violence relationship due to no emergency relief or housing,” he said.
“By being homeless it restricts your potential to do things like get a job, your health must also be affected as being out in the elements must create health problems.”
When asked about what was contributing to the housing crisis Mr Wigg pointed to the lack of government public housing, population increase and land tax impacting landlords to the point of selling.
“The government keeps moving the goal posts with investing in property,” he said.
Mr Warren said ultimately it came down to supply and demand.
“There’s not one magic bullet, but there’s probably five or six. I mean, you can’t welfare
Housing affordability was named as one of most concerning issues facing urban residents leading up to the federal election. (Stewart Chambers: 321951)
your way out of this problem. Some of the political parties are saying ‘we’ll give people this, give people that’, but that’s not sustainable,” he said.
“The issue is always around supply and demand. They’ve got to take people’s investment strategy out of housing other than capital gains.”
Another investment strategy that needs attention, Mr Warren said, was “this whole Airbnb explosion”.
Having been helping friends and family search for rental properties, Ms Tutty said another issue was the asking rental price for somewhere rather rundown.
“(There’s a) lack of rentals. I’ve been looking at rentals with friends as they look for a place and there are so many dumps and crappy places go-
ing for so much because they can get away with it in this market. (It’s) tragic,” she said.
As for solutions, Mr Wigg took a holistic approach, stating that increases to rental assistance and jobseeker, mental health support and reduction of “immigration until we can manage our housing issues” would be a start.
“Every time I see the government make a policy announcement, handing out cash to get votesI ask myself who needs the help more: a homeless person, a person on jobseeker or the person who is getting the hand out,” Mr Wigg said.
“Example $19 billion to reduce the HECS debt by 20 per cent could build a lot of public houses.”
In a similar vein, Mr Warren said opening public land, under a strategy like the urban land
authority in the 1980s, where developers were excluded from purchasing land, would go a long way in supporting young people to buy property.
“It’s become unreasonable the amount of income it takes to just put a roof over your head,” he said.
Ms Tutty also put government or public housing as a key requirement or solution of the next elected government to support the housing crisis.
“(We need) more government housing for families. So many single parent families (are) needing homes,” she said.
On the reverse, however, both Mr Warren and Mr Wigg said the need for housing stock had to be appropriately matched with infrastructure and correct planning processes.
“We do need housing stock. Absolutely agree. But the problem is, when it becomes such a political imperative, you get poor planning decisions,” Mr Warren said.
“I worry about the infrastructure with higher density living, already our roads are not coping. The units have one garage but the residents have multiple cars,” Mr Wigg said.
Heading into the election, Mr Wigg and Mr Warren said appropriate announcements or funding allocations to housing would sway their votes this election but it wasn’t without caution.
“I get really annoyed with both political parties, because once something becomes political nothing good comes from it, because it all becomes about point scoring,” Mr Warren said.
“If one side does something that might be good, the other side will come up with something else instead of a concerted approach with all sides of politics trying to resolve the issue.
“It has to be a suite of policies. There’s no magic bullet, but a concerted effort to do something about it is what people really need at the moment.”
As predicted by political expert Dr Zareh Ghazarian, Australia is set to elect a minority government on 3 May, something Mr Warren said he too believes will occur.
“People are fed up with the two party system… my view is we’ve had poor outcomes for a long time now through a whole different spectrum of both sides of politics,” he said.
“Talking to younger people, in particular, they are very disenfranchised with the political system, because they don’t see anything of value for them coming from it. So they disengage.
“So I’m interested to see what comes of it after this election because there are a number of major issues that they need to tackle.”
The election will be held on Saturday 3 May.
Election hits final stretch as major sweeteners pledged
By Dominic Giannini and Poppy Johnston, AAP
On the east coast and in the west, Labor and the coalition are hyping up true believers as they sharpen their focus on housing and tax cuts.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese launched Labor’s official campaign in Perth, where he promised to build 100,000 homes reserved for first-time buyers only.
“This is the biggest home-building program since post-war housing,” he told party faithful and Labor luminaries on Sunday 13 April.
Australians would also be able to buy their first dwelling with a five per cent deposit, with the government guaranteeing the other 15 per cent and the help-to-buy scheme will be expanded to cover more people and properties.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton used his launch in western Sydney - where the Liberals need to pick up a slate of seats - to offer first home-buyers tax deductible mortgage interest payments on the first $650,000.
Both sides also offered more moderate tax relief measures as Labor promised a $1000 instant asset write-off, saving people up to $320, while the Liberals offered a one-off $1200 tax cut sweetener.
Famous faces on both sides were at the respective launches, with Mr Albanese embracing former Labor prime minister Julia Gillard and Mr Dutton greeting former Liberal prime ministers Scott Morrison, John Howard and Tony Abbott after his speech.
Mr Albanese cast the election as a choice
between a steady hand to weather economic headwinds and a reckless Liberal government that needed to borrow its policies from the United States.
“Labor’s vision for this great country, our plan to build Australia’s future is not borrowing ideologies or copying policies from anywhere else or anyone else,” Mr Albanese said.
“It’s about building on what has always been our nation’s greatest strength, the Australian people.”
Mr Dutton centred his pitch around restor-
ing the Australian dream of home ownership as he branded the 2025 election “a sliding doors moment for our country”.
“When Australians have heard me say that I want to be the prime minister for home ownership, for home affordability, for home accessibility, I mean it,” he said.
“Australians, let’s make sure that we can get this great country that we love back on track.”
A first-home buyer with a taxable income of $120,000 and a $650,000 mortgage at 6.1 per cent interest would be about $12,000 better off a
year, the coalition said.
Under its $10 billion tax plan, eligible taxpayers earning up to $144,000 a year would be in line for a rebate when they lodge their return for the upcoming financial year.
Australians had a clear choice on housing, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said.
“Under Labor, more homes and smaller deposits, under the coalition and Peter Dutton, fewer homes and higher house prices,” he said.
Coalition campaign spokesman James Paterson said his party would help lower demand for housing and boost supply of new dwellings.
“We have some very strong policies out there to reduce demand, including immigration, because that is a driver of demand, and banning foreign investors for two years from buying Australian homes,” Senator Paterson said.
Greens leader Adam Bandt said cracking down on investor tax handouts and capping rents were the real solutions to the nation’s housing affordability woes.
“Labor tinkers while prices soar, the Liberals will send prices even higher,” he said.
Mr Dutton claimed his plan would do more to ease cost-of-living pain than Labor’s tax cuts of up to $268 in 2026/27 and up to $536 each financial year after but Labor hit back saying people were better with long-term relief.
The major parties decided to make things official earlier than usual in a bid to stay in public view ahead of a slew of public holidays for Easter and Anzac Day.
The election will be held on 3 May.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (left) and Leader of the Opposition Peter Dutton (right) during their campaign launches in Perth and Sydney respectively on Sunday 13 April. (AAP Image/ Lukas Coch, Mick Tsikas)
Nikki’s ride to honour donor
By Oliver Winn
Nikki Liebman was eating steak with mushroom sauce when she got the phone call to tell her she was going to get a liver transplant.
As if the words from the phone had sent her into shock, Ms Liebman’s heart thumped rapidly, and her breathing quickened.
She’d endured end-stage liver failure for months as she waited for a matched liver to become available, and a potential fix to her autoimmune condition was overwhelming.
Ms Liebman will never know her donor’s name, but they’d given her life at the cost of their own.
To honour her donor, she will ride along the iconic 80km-return Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail for her one year transplant anniversary in May.
Roughly 25 years earlier, Ms Liebman was an active woman growing up in South Africa.
After she moved to Australia in 2004, she realised something was wrong when she wasn’t feeling her normal self and so she was diagnosed with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), an autoimmune condition that affects the liver bowel ducts.
For 20 years, life continued as normal. She managed her condition with medication and had two daughters. Then she got Covid-19, and everything changed.
“In May 2022, it was just a normal day, but then I started feeling nauseous. I thought I was coming down with a stomach bug,” Ms Liebman said.
“Lo and behold, that evening, I kept running to the bathroom, vomiting blood.”
Her two daughters, aged 12 and 10 years old at the time, rushed to her aid when they found her collapsed on the bathroom floor before she was rushed to hospital.
For the next year and a half, Ms Liebman’s life consisted of hasty hospital visits and deteriorating health.
She was told she had around two years to live without a liver transplant. But Ms Liebman hadn’t realised that the wait for a transplant would be excruciating.
“Day-to-day living was excruciating, you start developing brain fog, you have no energy, you’re tired, your body hurts, but then you just don’t know how long the process is going to take,” she said.
As she waited for the call, she tried to live a normal life, but the uncertainty was crippling.
She described the wait as being pregnant and not knowing when you were going to go into labor, only that she had no idea if she’d receive a transplant before her body gave out.
Her life was a haze of pain and fatigue, and her daughters were there to witness it all.
“It’s something that young teenagers, especially at that age, should never have to go through or see.”
Eight weeks later, she got the phone call.
The person on the other end of the receiver briefed Ms Liebman: “Hi, this is the story, there’s a potential donor, you have to come into hospital.”
Then: “Just breathe.”
What followed, Ms Liebman said, was all a blur. But by the next morning, she woke up to hospital gowns and face masks towering over her.
“The nurses and the doctors were saying to me: ‘Well done, you’re amazing, you’ve come out of this’, and I just had this sense of euphoria.”
“I don’t know what my option would have been without it. I would not have survived,” Ms Liebman said.
It’s this reason why Ms Liebman wishes to raise awareness surrounding organ donation.
According to DonateLife, four out of five Australians support organ and tissue donation, but only one in three are actually registered.
Ms Liebman said this is usually because the vast majority haven’t been affected themselves personally, so they simply forget.
“You hear about it, but you don’t know the ins and outs because when you don’t know anything about it, why do you need to research, because it hasn’t affected you personally.”
Donatelife urges everyone to join the organ donor registry - it takes one minute to sign up, and you only have to be over the age of 16 to join.
Only your email and medicare card details are required - to register, visit donatelife.gov.au or
register through Medicare.
“Often it happens that it’s family members or friends, once someone they know has gone through it, then people start spreading the word. But it doesn’t have to be that way.”
But, she’s not the only one - Ms Liebman’s story is shared by 1800 Australians on organ waitlists today.
It’s not only older populations receiving these transplants either - organ donations could give young people with early health complications a chance to live.
“Young kids are able to have a bright future because the right person registered to become an organ donor - it’s super important,” she said.
Since DonateLife’s national organ donor program started in 2009, just under 19,500 people have received life-saving transplants from 7,000 deceased organ donors.
Though one organ donor can save the lives of up to seven people, there’s still strict requirements in place, which means only a small portion of donors have their organs donated.
Ultimately, it only increases the importance of getting more people on the donation registry.
It’s also vital for newly registered donors to tell their family, because the family has to give consent to actually have their organs donated.
Despite the hardship she’s endured, Ms Liebman said she’s always been a “glass half full kind of person”.
When she spoke of her journey, her voice was animated and lively. It was clear that she had so much more life to live in this world.
Now, her focus is set on training for the big ride. She said she was taken aback at the beauty of Warburton and felt it was the perfect spot for her commemoration.
“There’s just something about Warburton. It’s just such a beautiful spot,” she said.
In reference to her transplant anniversary bike ride, she used the word ‘celebration’ hesitantly.
Though her life had been saved, she’s aware that another family had mourned the death of a loved one.
“And I couldn’t stop thinking of my donor. I don’t know who my donor is, I’ll never know who they were, but I owe it to them.”
“You want to celebrate life but you also want to remember the donor,” she said.
“Because there’s the sad side of it - that another family has gone through pain. So you also want to remember that they had a life and that they gave you life.”
Ms Liebman recalled lying in her hospital bed after her surgery, staring out the window into the night. Outside, brightly-lit highways glimmered in the distance the world went about their lives.
“Here I am lying in this hospital bed, looking
Nikki Liebman and her partner Damien will ride along the Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail to honour Liebman’s donor. (Stewart Chambers: 472091) out at the lights and the cars going by, and I just thought to myself, I really have this opportunity of a new life.”
NEWS Phillip for Trumpet of Patriots
By Callum Ludwig
Phillip Courtis is running as the Trumpet of Patriots candidate for the electorate of Casey.
As part of the Star Mail’s election coverage, Mr Courtis was contacted to share a bit of information about his connection to the seat of Casey and why he is running in this election.
Mr Courtis said while he currently lives outside the electorate, his connection to Casey runs deep.
“As the youngest of ten children, I was raised with strong values of community and resilience, values that mirror the spirit of Casey, I’ve spent years actively engaging with this area, and I understand what’s at stake for its residents, this isn’t just a campaign, it’s personal,” he said.
“I’m running because Australia is heading in the wrong direction, and I refuse to stand by, I started my political journey with the Young Liberals, but as they drifted from the values that matter, I knew I had to find a new path,”
“The Trumpet of Patriots is that path, we’re committed to a government that works, an immigration policy that’s sustainable, and a future grounded in Australian values, the time for sitting on the fence is over.”
Mr Courtis’ social media presence lists an address in Mickleham which is in the electorate of Calwell. It is approximately a 40 minute drive from the nearest boundary of the Casey electorate in Panton Hill, which was recently redistributed to the area.
Mr Courtis said his goal is simple: to fight for the people of Casey like their future depends on it, because it does.
“People in Casey are under pressure. Crumbling infrastructure, spiralling rent and food costs, and unchecked immigration are pushing families and businesses to the edge, locals want their voices heard, not buried in bureaucracy,” he said.
“I’ve spoken with small business owners overwhelmed by rising premiums, staff shortages, and wage stress, these aren’t abstract issues, they’re happening now and the Trumpet of Patriots has the backbone to tackle them head on,”
“I’ll push for leaner government, smarter immigration, more homes, and policies that reduce the daily cost burden on families, I’ll fight to ensure Australian values are not just protected but
prioritised, we need practical infrastructure upgrades, a revitalised local economy, and a clear voice in Canberra that won’t be ignored.”
Out on the campaign trail, according to his social media, Mr Courtis has visited Trumpet of Patriots volunteers at Lilydale Lake and small business owners in Belgrave. He also met with
Family First Party candidate Dan Nebauer
By Dongyun Kwon
Former serviceman Dan Nebauer declared candidacy for the electorate of Casey as a member of the Family First Party.
Mr Nebauer has developed strong leadership and management skills through his experience in the Royal Australian Air Force, a major multinational company and his own travel company.
He served in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) for 25 years, including Vietnam War experience, and worked in senior management of a major multinational company for nine years.
Mr Nebauer has owned and managed his own travel company for 11 years.
“Having lived in this region since my retirement from the RAAF in 1988, I share the same pressures of high living costs including power and gas prices, the cost of putting meals on the table, paying council rates, meeting high insurance costs or filling up the family car,” the Family First Party candidate said.
“The list goes on and on.
“Watching my adult children struggle to buy a home has made me so aware of the pressure on people seeking to get into the housing market today.”
Mr Nebauer is a man of Christian faith and has been married to his wife Anne for more than 58 years.
He has been a member of Family First Party since 2020 because he has a strong affinity with the aims and convictions of the party.
“Family First has a wide range of policies from a faith-based family perspective that are
aimed at addressing the issues that are impacting families today from cost of living pressures through to tackling deliberate programs and policies that create gender confusion in our children,” he said.
“I don’t think there would be a single person or family in the wide Casey electorate that would not benefit from these policies.”
Mr Nebauer contested the state seat of Croydon in 2022.
“Although unsuccessful, we did achieve the highest per cent gain in the seat,” he said.
For more information about Family First Party’s policies, please visit the following website, familyfirstparty.org.au/policies
is unaffordable, and we’re dangerously dependent on foreign manufacturing and energy, we must act urgently to restore control of our own destiny, that means protecting our freedoms, supporting local industries, and stepping back from international bodies that no longer represent our national interest,” he said.
“I’m not running to build a political career; I’m running to protect what we all love about this country, I’m a husband, a father, and a small business owner, I know firsthand how hard it’s become to stay afloat.
“With your support, I’ll bring real world experience and real urgency to Parliament, let’s take back control of our future, starting right here in Casey.”
Some of the key Trumpet of Patriots policies include:
• Installing a Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), seemingly in alignment with the executive order implemented by the Trump administration which is not actually an official government department.
• Cutting immigration to sustainable levels and prioritising ‘migration from nations with compatible values’
• Establishing high-speed rail networks to speed up commutes and allowing Australians to access their super for a home deposit
• ‘Restore reliable baseload power’, repeal the ban on nuclear energy, exit the Paris Agreement and ‘let the free market decide’ the cheapest form of power
• Believe in one Australian flag instead of multiple flags, likely the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags and that there’s no need ‘to be welcomed to your own country’
• Get rid of Digital IDs, prevent a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) from being established and make accepting cash compulsory at all businesses
Senator Ralph Babet who was elected for the now-defunct United Australia Party in 2022 and is running again under the Trumpet of Patriots banner.
Mr Courtis said Australia is at a tipping point and is on the brink of losing what makes it great.
“Government waste is out of control, housing
• ‘Get the woke agenda out of our schools’ with a ‘focus on reading, writing and arithmetic, not ideology’
• Exit the WHO (World Health Organization), UN (United Nations) and WEF (World Economic Forum) and stay out of international conflicts
• Place a 15 per cent licence fee on all iron ore exports from Australia
• Establish a Royal Commission into Covid-19.
Chloe Bond declares candidacy for electorate
By Dongyun Kwon
Chloe Bond is representing the Animal Justice Party for the seat of Casey in the 2025 federal election.
She has lived in two different towns, Kalorama and Wesburn, in the federal electorate of Casey for eight years.
The Animal Justice Party candidate said although she finds the region to be the perfect place to live, therearemanyvulnerablehumansandanimalswith voices that are not being heard.
“I hope to bring my experience in advocacy and the Animal Justice Party values of kindness, rationality,non-violence,andequalitytoensureCaseyisrepresented with the relentlessness and determination I bring to every other aspect of my life,” she said.
Ms Bond has a lawyer background in her professional career, through which her passion for advocacy in vulnerable communities has grown.
Shenowworksforaruralcommunitylegalcentre as a generalist lawyer where she assists vulnerable people in both Victoria and New South Wales with their legal matters.
“Prior to (the current job), I was a specialist victims of crime and crimes compensation lawyer, where I would aid victim survivors of family violence andsexualassaultwithobtainingcompensationand assistance in their recovery,” the Animal Justice Party candidate said.
“I previously worked at Victoria Legal Aid at the inception of its Victims Legal Services team, helping victim survivors of violent crime.
“Prior to this, I was a criminal defence lawyer whereIwouldspendmydaysinCourtadvocatingfor restorative justice. I began my legal career as a VictimsofCrimelawyer,wheremypassionforadvocacy began.”
Ms Bond experienced two election campaigns. ShebattledfortheelectorateofEildoninthe2022
state election and ran another campaign in the 2024 local council election for O’Shannassy Ward, representing the Animal Justice Party both times.
The Animal Justice Party candidate said her party’s election promises are to advocate for animals, people, and our planet.
“We intend to ban live export, end factory farming,protectourAustralianicons,stopanimalpoisoning, act against animal testing, protect our pets, and establishafederalanimalprotectionbody,”MsBond said.
“We intend to create a healthy food system for our people, achieve equality for all, prevent future pandemics, and legislate to protect family violence victim survivors and their non-human animals. We intend to put our planet over profit, to end species extinctions, to protect the rights of our natural world, and to declare a climate emergency at all levels of government.”
Animal Justice Party candidate Chloe Bond for the electorate of Casey. (Supplied)
Family First Party candidate Dan Nebauer. (Supplied)
current
Trumpet of Patriots candidate for Casey Phillip Courtis. (Supplied)
NEWS Ambere for One Nation
By Callum Ludwig
Ambere Livori has been announced as the Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party candidate for the seat of Casey in the upcoming federal election.
The Star Mail reached out to Ms Livori to find out what ties her to the electorate and why she is running to represent the region in Parliament.
Ms Livori said she lives in the Latrobe electorate, near the border of Casey.
“I have a great connection with the Casey Electorate and surrounding areas, my family love to walk the streets, shop, dine, camp and stay in many beautiful locations Casey has to offer,” she said.
“Casey Electorate has so much to offer everyone and this is my chance to give back, I decided to run for One Nation as their policies are there to make this country better for all Australians,”
“The issues facing my electorate reflect the broader challenges across Australia—cost of living, housing, and migration… what I hope to achieve for Casey is to implement our policies in a way that delivers economic relief, puts money back in people’s pockets, and prioritises all Australians.”
Ms Livori’s background is in the automotive industry and she currently works as a mechanical fitter in construction, as well as being a new mum and wife.
Ms Livori said she is committed to addressing the cost of living, free speech and ‘citizen-initiated referenda’ (legislation and referendums proposed directly by residents), with a vision that includes tackling housing affordability, government overspending and standing up for individual rights.
“From my conversations with constituents, it’s clear that the major concerns in our electorate are the rising cost of living, inflation and housing affordability. These challenges are not unique to our community—they reflect broader issues affecting Australians nationwide,” she said.
“OneNationiscommittedtotacklingthecostof living crisis through a targeted and practical plan designed to deliver immediate relief to households and businesses,”
“I believe that inflation is being driven by irresponsible government overspending, that’s why One Nation is committed to cutting wasteful expenditure and delivering up to $90 billion in annual savings through efficient, targeted reforms.”
Ms Livori pointed to One Nation’s promises to implement the following measures for cost-ofliving relief:
• Reforming National Electricity Market (NEM) rules to support affordable coal and gas-fired baseload power, while backing nuclear energy as a ‘reliable, long-term solution.’
• Halving the fuel excise to 26 cents per litre for three years, with the option to extend
• Raising the tax-free threshold to $35,000 for selffunded retirees
• Removing the excise on beer and spirits in licensed venues.
On the topic of housing affordability, Ms Livori supports One Nation’s pledges to:
• Introduce a five-year moratorium on GST for building materials
• Conduct a full review of ‘excessive’ government charges
• Remove mandatory disability compliance requirements for all new homes
Ms Livori is also a supporter of One Nation’s proposed National Apprenticeship Scheme which would provide first-year, second-year and thirdyear appreentices with a wage subsidy of 75 per cent, 50 per cent and 25 per cent respectively. Ms Livori enjoys four-wheel driving and camping with her family, opposing the Great Forest National Park proposal that has been a hot topic in the Casey electorate in recent times as she believes it will ‘devastate the local economy.’
Some of One Nation’s other policy positions include:
• Joint income tax filing for families with at least one dependent child to encourage homeschooling and reduce childcare costs
• Reduce government spending by reforming the NIDS, abolishing the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and climate-change programs and levying gas royalties, among other measures
• Constitutionally protect free speech
• Implement a national water infrastructure initiative
• Withdraw Australia from the United Nations Paris Agreement on emissions reduction
• Ban any further sale of freehold farmland to foreign investors and limit the sale of leasehold farmland to a tenure of 25 years
• Reduce migration by over 570,000 people, deport 75,000 ‘illegal immigrants’ and implement migration reforms such as withdrawing from the United Nations Refugee Convention and refusing ‘entry to migrants from nations known to foster extremist ideologies’
• Reduce cost of access to medicinal cannabis
• Reform Medicare to prevent fraud and rorting while increasing rebates
• Oppose any increase to GST
• Keep firearm licensing laws the same
• Reform law on abortion, including reducing the gestational limit, banning sex-selective abortion and giving doctors the right to make a conscientious objection to performing an abortion
• Begin a Royal Commission into the management of the Covid-19 pandemic
• Supporting the fishing and forestry industries
Coalition pledges to reinstate $100m for road sealing
By Corey Everitt and Mikayla van Loon
A Coalition Government has committed to reinstate $100 million of funding to seal roads throughout the Hills, a project that has fast become one of the top local issues.
La Trobe MP Jason Wood and Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Bridget McKenzie were joined by Hills residents in Gembrook, while Casey MP Aaron Violi met with Kallista residents, on Monday 14 April as they announced a commitment to reignite the project which was initiated by their previous government under Scott Morrison.
Formally known colloquially as ‘Sealing the Hills’ and ‘Roads for Community’, this former $300 million program aimed to seal 164 dirt roads throughout Cardinia and Yarra Ranges Shire Councils.
In 2023, the Albanese Government withdrew funding after only 38 of the planned roads were sealed, leaving both councils over $200 million short of previous presumed funding.
The topic has been a source of outrage among the community and questions loomed this election campaign as to whether the Coalition will recommit to their former program.
Minister McKenzie said the funding will ensure safe roads in the disaster-prone area.
“Having roads that are accessible, easy and safe to drive is incredibly important,” she said.
“When we talk to local residents, they’ve spoken about the damage the pot holes have done, how slowly they have to travel along them for safety reasons and just the amenity, the dust.”
The promise is a $100 million split between both councils over the next four years.
How exactly it will be split is not detailed yet and it is short of the over $200 million of funding which was cut from the original project.
Kallista Flood Watch member Karen Kestigian said despite Kallista alone being “over 100 years old with 80 per cent unsealed roads”, the request from the township was to only seal three roads of most concern because “we’re not greedy”.
Ms Kestigian said at the “top of the list” was Gleghorn Road, “a true access road” and “vital link for residents” as it connects with 11 other roads. Emberson Road and Rivington Avenue rounded out the three because of the immense flood risk.
“We recognise the needs across the whole of the Yarra Ranges Council’s 700 kilometres of unsealed roads that many communities desperately need sealed roads,” she said.
“This is an important step in responding to the basic infrastructure that is vital to the sustainability of our communities from flooding, addressing safer roads for drivers and in pro-
viding much needed access during significant fire and emergency events.”
For the announcement to be made in Kallista for the Casey electorate, Ms Kestigian said it was nice to be recognised and that “the actual conditions have been acknowledged publicly and federally”.
Stating that it’s “not about politics”, Ms Kestigian said she hoped the project would gain bipartisan support or the backing of other candidates.
Member of the Gembrook Road Action Group, Derek Jones was pleased with the commitment.
“We welcome the announcement from Senator McKenzie and Member for La Trobe Jason Wood and we are pleased to see this issue of unsealed roads in what is now peri-urban areas will be addressed,” he said.
“We also welcome a response from other
parties in this forthcoming federal election, as to any commitments in this area.”
The project will follow the same scheme as the previous, with contributions from the council and residents joined by federal government funds with each sealing project.
Mr Violi thanked everyone who continued to raise the issue which led to the announcement of this “crucial funding”.
“Every day, families across our region navigate dangerous unsealed roads, battling dust clouds, deep potholes and hazardous driving conditions. This reduces visibility, damages vehicles and is a danger to drivers, passengers and pedestrians alike,” he said.
Mr Wood said this was something the Coalition “could not walk away from” after so much appeal from local groups.
He hopes the Labor Party will match this commitment.
“They need to match it, it’s just heartless,” he said.
The Labor Party remains non-committal to providing direct funding for road sealing in this region but rather to an equal system.
“We recognise that not just some, but all local governments across Australia deserve additional support to repair and maintain their local road networks,” a spokesperson said.
“Rather than playing favourites with councils in marginal seats, the Albanese Labor Government has doubled Roads to Recovery (RTR) funding for every Council across the country. That means that Councils across Victoria will receive $895 million in RTR funding for the 2024-2029 funding period.”
The spokesperson did say, however, that should these projects be identified by the Victorian Government as “a priority for future investment”, it would employ “the usual Budget processes” to consider funding.
Kallista residents Rosemary, Karen and Ray met with Senator Bridget McKenzie and Casey MP Aaron Violi to hear about the Coalition’s commitment to road sealing. (Supplied)
One Nation candidate for Casey Ambere Livori. (Supplied)
Mate was a German soldier
By Anthony McAleer
One of the most extraordinary stories to come out of the First World War was an incident that happened to a Lilydale soldier while serving in Europe.
Robert Shell had grown up in Lilydale and had attended the Lilydale State School for his education. In late 1915, aged just eighteen years old, he left his job as a horse driver and enlisted in the AIF. From mid-1916 he served with the 21st Infantry Battalion on the Western Front where he was hospitalised a number of times.
Towards the end of the war he was resting one day in a reserve area when a group of German prisoners of war were marched past under guard. Suddenly from amidst the prisoners he heard in an Australian accent said: ‘G’day Bob’. He looked around to discover that amongst the prisoners was a friend he’d gone to school with at the Lilydale State School – in a German uniform.
Chatting with him, he told Robert that being of German descent, he had gone back to Germany with his family just before the war started and ended up being trapped there and was eventually conscripted into the Germany Army. Robert then spoke to his Sergeant and explained that this prisoner was actually from Australia and would make a good interpreter for the AIF. But the Sergeant told him that as he was a German prisoner of war – ‘that was that’.
After the war Robert returned to Lilydale and around 1920 he was walking down the Main Street when suddenly he saw coming towards him the same school friend he last saw in a German uniform. Recognising him, he said to Robert ‘G’day Bob, glad to see we both made it back’. Sadly though, that was the last time they saw each other.
It is amazing to think that two soldiers from this area happen to meet on the Western Front, when there were so many thousands of soldiers stationed there during that period. But what makes this more phenomenal is that even though they were both from Lilydale, they happened to be serving on opposing sides – one with the Australian Army, the other with the German Army.
From the Mt Evelyn RSL’s publication –‘Home Front – The Impact of the First World War on the Shire of Lillydale’. Available from the RSL via ebay.
Robert Shell went all the way to Germany to bump into a schoolmate during World War I. (Supplied)
Local Vietnam War veteran shares his story
By Dongyun Kwon
Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson shared his experience of the Vietnam War prior to the 2025 Anzac Day.
2025 marks special milestones of war history, in which many Australians were involved too.
It is the 110th year since the landing at Gallipoli and 80 years since the end of World War II.
It is also the 85th year since Australia entered World War II, the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Borneo, the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, the 35th anniversary of the Gulf War beginning and the 10th anniversary of the Royal Australian Air Force strikes in Syria.
The Lilydale RSL president started the interview with Star Mail by clarifying the meaning of Anzac Day.
“Anzac Day is a day not to glorify war, but to commemorate and remember all those men and women who served their country during times of war,” Mr Dobson said.
From 1962 to 1973, more than 60,000 Australians served in the Vietnam War.
Mr Dobson was deployed in the war from January 1969 to February 1970.
“I was in a combat supply unit, and I was at the front line at Nui Dat,” he said.
“From there, we did various things. Sometimes, we went out with engineers and other times we went out with infantry. We also worked
for civil affairs where we were rebuilding homes for Vietnamese communities.”
The local Vietnam War veteran was conscripted through the birthday ballot at the age of 20.
The birthday ballot was like a lottery, in which numbered marbles or wooden ballot balls were placed in a hand-spun barrel, a predecided number of marbles were drawn, and those whose birthdates matched the numbers drawn were then called up for compulsory national service.
After over 13 months of service in Vietnam, he returned to Australia and got back to the printing company he had worked for before he got called up.
“As part of the government‘s law, the employer had to put a person back in the same job after they came out of their service in the army,” Mr Dobson said.
In August, the local Vietnam War veteran will travel around Vietnam, the areas where he served, with his chap.
“There’s a chap who went to all the same places I went to, and he’s now a military historian,” Mr Dobson said.
“He’s got a lot of information about various things, a lot of people don’t know about. It’s going to be very interesting to learn about the enemy side of things and how they went about things.”
Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson (left) was conscripted into the Vietnam War when he was 20. (File: 232308)
ANZAC DAY Enjoy the entertainment
By Dongyun Kwon
Healesville Greyhound Racing Club announced a new partnership with RSL Victoria in support of the 2025 Anzac appeal, combining the thrill of racing with a meaningful cause close to every Australian’s heart.
In the lead-up to Anzac Day, the club has transformed its grounds with a powerful tribute display, featuring 500 sandbags, authentic wartime memorabilia, and props from classic Australian war films including Gallipoli, The Water Diviner, and Deadline Gallipoli.
Healesville Greyhound Racing Club general manager Peter Frost said it would be a good opportunity to raise much-needed funds for the Anzac appeal, supporting veterans and their families across Victoria.
“Healesville Greyhound Racing Club is honoured to race on Anzac Day and support this iconic appeal,” he said.
“It’s more than a race, it’s a tribute. We welcome everyone to join us for a day of racing, reflection, and remembrance.”
The club will host a special event on this Anzac Day where eight local RSL sub-branches (Healesville, Lilydale, Cockatoo, Upper Yarra, Yarra Glen, Emerald, Alexandra, and Mt Evelyn) will compete in a dedicated race to raise vital funds for their Patriotic Funds.
The day will kick off with race one at 1.02pm.
After the race, Screamin’ Eagles will hit the stage with the special guests, Chantoozies, from 2pm onwards.
Food trucks and kids’ entertainment will be on site all day as well.
Mr Frost said he was pleased to see the local community has been involved in supporting the valuable cause.
“We encourage the local and broader community to come and join us. We’re going to have this open to the general public for a week, leading up to Anzac Day.
“We really hope we can educate the commu-
“Eastey Fire Trucks (is going to display the fire truck), and a local gentleman will use three army trucks in the march in the morning and then bring them up here,” he said.
nity to see what it was like in 1915 (and what) our diggers went through.”
All proceeds from the day will go directly to the 2025 Anzac appeal.
Greyhound Clubs Victoria chief executive officer Brett Jones praised the initiative and the outstanding effort by the Healesville team.
“They’ve gone above and beyond to honour our servicemen and women, and I encourage everyone to head to the track and show their support for the 2025 Anzac appeal,” he said.
To purchase a ticket for this event, please visit the following website, trybooking.com/events/ landing/1364612
The Anzac Day display was officially launched on Wednesday 16 April by Healesville Greyhound Racing Club general manager Peter Frost (right) along with Lilydale RSL president Bill Dobson. (Dongyun Kwon: 472714)
ANZAC DAY
Looking at the anniversaries
The 2025 Anzac Day marks the 110th anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli.
Heading into this special Anzac Day, Star Mail looked back at the years of 2005 and 2015 which respectively marked the 90th anniversary and centenary of the Anzacs’ sacrifice to fight for the peace of the world.
In 2005, Healesville soldier Gareth Ballantine joined thousands of Australians in honouring the Anzacs at Gallipoli on Anzac Day.
Mr Ballantine, an Army Private with Australia’s Federation Guard, was one of a select group who provided the ceremonial guard for the dawn
service at Anzac Cove and the Australian Memorial Service at Lone Pine.
The Gallipoli assignment was his first overseas.
Mr Ballantine said he was tremendously proud to be talking in the 90th anniversary commemoration as part of the Federation Guard contingent.
“It’s something that I’ve always wanted to do and it is hard to fathom that I am actually here,” he said.
“I was blown away by the guided tour we had of the battlefields. I have read about it a lot and heard stories but to actually see what they went
Healesville RSL
Anzac Day Services
through and how they went about it just blew me away and it’s something that I will never forget.”
In 2015, right in time for the Anzac centenary, the Healesville Avenue of Honour received a boost with the unveiling of new signage.
An Avenue of Honour is an avenue of trees that commemorates those who have served in armed conflicts.
In an effort to reinvigorate the commemorative avenue, the main plaque near Le Pine Funerals, along the Maroondah Highway, featured the names of soldiers from the Healesville RSL’s Honour Roll.
At the opening, then Casey MP Tony Smith spoke about the significance of the plaque and the centenary to the Yarra Ranges.
Mr Smith implored the community to reflect on the sacrifices of those honoured through the plaque.
“These were people who were volunteers, who jumped up to help because they believed in our values,” he said.
“They believed in the values of our allies and were prepared to do something about it.
DAWN SERVICE
5.45 am at the RSL Memorial, Healesville RSL followed by a traditional Gunfire Breakfast (Gold Coin Donation Welcome)
MARCH & SERVICE
9:30 am: MarchAssembly at Church St. 10:00 am: March to Memo Hall & Services
At the conclusion of Services, all are warmly invited to attend Healesville RSL for refreshments.
“We’ve had 100 years to reflect; now it’s time to reflect like never before, as a nation and as a community.”
While Avenue of Honour received the gift, St Brigid’s Primary School hosted an information session about the history of Anzacs in World War I and the Gallipoli campaign, inviting students, parents and family members.
Students gathered to watch a presentation about the Anzacs and then made their way to the front of the school where turf had been laid to form a mini version of Flanders Fields under a flag flying at half-mast.
Students Lakoda Scopel and Vincent Belford led a ceremony of remembrance and commemoration before other students, teachers and guests.
Student Perry Byron brought forward an oak sapling to be planted on the school grounds as a marker of the significance of the Anzac centenary and Brother Darcy Byron proudly wore and presented a genuine slouch hat from the war.
At the end of the ceremony, students, teachers and guests were invited to place poppies made by the students into the fresh turf to recreate the sea of poppies of Flanders Fields.
Lakoda Scopel, Perry Byron, Darcey Byron, and Vincent Belford at St Brigid’s Primary School Anzac commemoration in 2015. (Victoria Stone-Meadows: 138250)
Healesville Avenue of Honour received a boost with the unveiling of new signage in 2015. (File: 137823)
ANZAC DAY
Sharing their stories
The Hills Act Theatre Company is set to debut its inaugural production ‘Breathless’ this April, with performances strategically scheduled near Anzac Day to honour veterans and raise awareness about the lasting impacts of war.
Founded in September 2024 by Laurence Webb and director Phil Stephenson, The Hills Act Theatre Company emerged to fill a crucial gap in Healesville and the Yarra Valley – providing creative opportunities for young people seeking to develop their theatrical talents after school hours.
Breathless tells the powerful story of four soldiers from different conflicts who struggle with PTSD and the aftermath of war. The production features a talented cast of emerging local performers, including two first-time actors and a 16-year-old newcomer, all of whom have impressed the director with their commitment and natural abilities.
The play’s journey to Healesville began when the director discovered an intriguing script that seemed to vanish while being read. After contacting the publisher, Sydney-based playwright Deborah made a serendipitous visit to Healesville
while caring for her daughter’s pets. She granted performance rights at a reduced fee, with proceeds supporting organisations assisting returning veterans.
“It was meant to be,” Mr Stephenson said.
“We found our entire cast within a week of auditions – young people searching for a creative outlet in town and had none. They have amazed me with their abilities and passion.”
By scheduling performances near Anzac Day, the company creates a meaningful opportunity for community reflection on the experiences of service members and the challenges many face upon returning home.
Breathless explores how these four soldiers from different eras are ‘thrown into a world of confusion, horror, family troubles and left to fend for themselves’,highlighting the importance of understanding PTSD and battle fatigue.
Don’t miss this moving production that promises to be both a showcase for local talent and an important conversation starter about supporting our veterans.
ANZAC DAY
The Hills Act Theatre Company is bringing its production ‘Breathless’ to the Yarra Valley.
Actors rehearsing for the show which aims to ‘to honour veterans and raise awareness about the lasting impacts of war.’ (Supplied)
ANZAC DAY
Their memories will live
By Oliver Winn
Anzac day 2025 marks 110 years since Australian and New Zealand troops braced the beaches of Gallipoli, where over 8,000 brave soldiers lost their lives to the Ottoman Empire.
Throughout the remainder of World War One, a total of 60,000 Australian soldiers lost their lives to the brutalities of war.
But, this year also marks anniversaries for other significant military events over the last century, such as the 85th anniversary since Australia entered World War Two and the 80th anniversary since the end of World War Two.
80 years has passed since the Liberation of Borneo and its the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War in 1975.
The Warburton, Millgrove and Wesburn townships saw 151 of its own men leave their families - 47 men never returned.
World War One’s impact on the quaint Upper Yarra region reverberated like a shudder throughout the bones of the land, leaving stories behind that would be handed down for generations to come.
The story of Yarra Ranges’ only World War One Victoria Cross recipient, Captain George Ingram, has been told by many over the years.
Mr Ingram grew up in Seville and miraculously served in both world wars before he died in 1961.
“It was traumatic; he was responsible for the death of more than 40 men on that day, hand to hand combat, and that’s going to haunt anyone,” Anthony McAleer, author of Great Courage and Initiative - The Heroic Life of George Ingram VC, MM, said.
Commemorative gates at Seville Primary School mark his contribution to World War One as a ‘Seville Boy’.
This year also marked 10 years since the Anzac centenary where the Yarra Junction Anzac Avenue of Honour was opened.
The official opening of the ceremony saw flags placed on 34 trees in tribute to the 34 men from the area who lost their lives in World War One.
The trees, protected by timber tree guards of the era, have been planted on the Warburton Rail Trail and identify the individual men, their age and where they died.
Upper Yarra RSL member Jeff Smith said the soldiers would’ve been humbled at the commemoration they receive today.
“They would be amazed at the Australia of today, and humbled that they are being remembered in this way,” he said.
The Upper Yarra’s own Buller Brothers is another well-known tale from the area - the three boys, Charles, John and Arthur, lost their lives in horrific circumstances and left a void in their hometown when they never returned home.
Private Charles Lewis Read from Yarra Junction served with the 11th Reinforcements, 6th Battalion, dying a year after he enlisted in France on 26 July 1916.
It’s these local soldiers, and their stories of sacrifice that will be kept close to the hearts of the Upper Yarra people for this year’s Anzac day.
Alex Ingram with a portrait of his father Captain George Ingram and his medals. (Rob Carew: 137767)
Captain George Ingram, VC, MM. (File)
ANZAC DAY Services across outer east
By Callum Ludwig
With Anzac Day falling on the Friday after Easter, here’s where to attend your local services across the Outer East.
In the Hills:
Dandenong Ranges RSL will hold a 6.30am Dawn Service at the memorial on the corner of Sherbrooke Road and Mt Dandenong Tourist Road, Ferny Creek, which will be followed by a Gunfire Breakfast at the Ferny Creek Scouts Hall. At 10.30am, there will also be a Commemorative March and Service at the Sassafras Village Green on the corner of Mountain Highway and Mt Dandenong Tourist Road, Sassafras, including refreshments at the Sub Branch at 1773 Mountain Highway, Sassafras. Afterwards.
Upwey/Belgrave RSL will hold a 6am Dawn Service at the RSL at 1 Mast Gully Road, Upwey, which will be followed by a gunfire breakfast. There will then be a Services March from 9.45am through the main street of Upwey, starting from the IGA before the main morning service at the sub-branch at 10am. Live music, a BBQ lunch, traditional games of ‘two-up’ and screening of the Collingwood vs Essendon Anzac Day match will follow.
Anzac Day Dawn Watch at Quarry Park, Ferntree Gully will be held at 5.45am with attendees welcome to bring a torch and chair if needed.
Bayswater RSL Dawn Service, 626 Mountain Highway, Bayswater at 5.45am.
Boronia RSL Dawn Service, gather at 198 Dorset Road, Boronia at 5.45am for a 6am service, the usual Commerative March held the Sunday before Anzac Day has been cancelled this year due to Easter.
Emerald RSL Sub-Branch’s Dawn Service at Anzac Place, 3 Memorial Avenue, Emerald at 5am with breakfast provided. A march will also be held from 10am at The Cenotaph in the town centre
with a 10.30am service to follow.
Kalorama will hold a 9am Commemorative Service at the Peace Memorial, located at Ellis Jeeves Reserve on Mt Dandenong Tourist Road in Kalorama.
Monbulk RSL will host 5.45am Dawn Service at the sub-branch at 48 Main Road, Monbulk as well as a 9.45am Commemorative March starting from St George’s Church, Monbulk and ending back at the RSL for a 10.00am Commemorative Service.
In the Valley: Wandin’s Commemorative Service hosted by the Rotary Club of Wandin will be held again at 8.30am at the Wandin Cenotaph on the corner of
Hunter Road and Beenak Road.
The restored Seville War Memorial will host its 5.45am Dawn Service with a free community breakfast provided.
Yarra Junction’s Dawn Service hosted by the Upper Yarra RSL will start at 6am sharp at the Yarra Junction Cenotaph near the Yarra Centre with attendees asked to arrive and be settled in by 5.45am to reduce interruption to the service.
For the march later in the morning, attendees are asked find a spot on Main Street from 10am before it steps off from the Commonwelath bank at 10.30am, where the march will proceed to the Cenotaph for the Morning Service at around 10.45am.
Millgrove’s Dawn Service will be held at Millgrove Memorial Park from 6am with car parking available at Millwarra Primary School and a gunfire breakfast at the Wesburn/Millgrove CFA.
Warburton will have a Commemorative Parade, assembling at Warburton RSL from 10.15am, at 10.40am followed by a Commemorative Service at the Cenotaph on Warburton Highway, Warburton at about 10.50am.
There will be a 5.45am Dawn Service at Healesville RSL on Maroondah Highway followed by Gunfire Breakfast. There will also be a 10.00am Commemorative March, which will assemble at 9.30am at the corner of Maroondah Highway and Church Street, and then a 10.30am Morning Service at the Healesville Memorial Hall.
Yarra Glen will have a Commemorative March, assembling outside the Yarra Glen Police Station at 10.00am and commencing at 10.15am followed by a Commemorative Service at the Cenotaph, 18 Anzac Avenue, Yarra Glen at 10.30am. In the Urban areas:
There will be a 5.45am Dawn Service at the Lilydale Cenotaph, with attendees asked to assemble at 5.30am, followed by refreshments at the Lilydale RSL in Anderson St.
Mt Evelyn will also hold a 5.45am Dawn Service at Mt Evelyn War Memorial Park on the corner of Wray Crescent and Birmingham Road. There will be a 10.00am Commemorative Service at the Montrose Memorial on Mt Dandenong Tourist Road, Montrose Mooroolbark will host a 12pm Commemorative service in Hookey Park on Charles Streeet, followed by refreshments and sausage sizzle put on by the scouts.
Croydon RSL asks attendees of their Dawn Service to arrive at the Croydon War Memorial at 5.30am for a 5.45am start with a gunfire breakfast afterwards at the RSL at 1 Civic Square, Croydon.
Where to find your local Anzac Day service. (File)
Generator in dire need
from the public to keep the lights on during power outages throughout the winter.
Volunteer-run Benwerren is a not-for-profit organisation that provides stays in a caring and nurturing environment for women and children in need, allowing them to take a break and heal from life’s challenges.
Benwerren chief executive officer Nichole Kelly said the Benwerren house needed a generator to ensure the organisation can still deliver its services during power outages because otherwise they are forced to temporarily let people go.
“I actually recall a year, it was during winter and the power went out for a number of days and we had families here that we had to send home,” Ms Kelly said.
“We just think if we were able to have a generator that’s wired in and easy for our volunteers to use, it just means our service can continue operating without disruption.”
Benwerren has started a GoFundMe page where it aims to raise $17,000 to cover the costs of purchasing and installing a generator.
The GoFundMe can be found here: gofundme. com/f/benwerren-time-out-for-women-andchildren-in-need
From 2023-2024, Benwerren provided stays for 145 women and 110 children, which included
12 families who were without a home at the time.
Ms Kelly said Benwerren’s welcoming and warm atmosphere helped guests feel comfortable and cared for.
“It runs like a home. We have our meals together, and our volunteers that come here to support our program help cook and clean and make our gardens look beautiful.”
She said Benwerren opted for the term ‘guest’ over ‘client’ because it reflected the type of care
the house provided.
“It’s really about coming and being welcomed into a home and into a family, and then we just welcome people as they are and meet people where they’re at,” Ms Kelly said.
The family-centred approach doesn’t come from nowhere though.
Before being registered as a charity in 1978, Benwerren was an informal support service operated by Ms Kelly’s grandparents.
“It was my grandparents that actually started Ben Warren. It’s how they sort of lived their life.” Her grandparents’ acts were motivated by genuine benevolence and a lived experience of a hard upbringing.
“If they came across somebody that had a need and they were able to meet it, then they did, and so they often took people into their home and that’s really what Benwerren grew out of.”
Ms Kelly’s aunty then took over from her grandparents and established Benwerren as a formal company, expanding the service but still retaining its small scale, family oriented focus.
The organisation has never received government funding and has relied on fundraising and hardworking volunteers to stay open.
Ms Kelly said a small budget, although limiting, helped keep Benwerren’s services simple, which means its care and support can be personalised and human-focused.
“If we were to receive government funding there would be pressure to change what we do, and we think what we do is pretty good, so we don’t really want to change that,” she said. Its volunteers also staff an op shop called Benwerren Boutique in Yarra Junction, where 100 per cent of the money earned funds Benwerren’s operating costs.
Benwerren have raised just under $1,000 of the $17,000 goal.
Top tips for becoming a vet, from a vet!
By Dongyun Kwon
World Veterinary Day is observed annually on the last Saturday of April and serves as an opportunity to recognise the vital contributions of veterinarians and the broader veterinary community in promoting animal health, welfare, and public safety.
In the lead-up to this year’s World Veterinary Day, which is scheduled on 26 April, Star Mail interviewed a veterinarian who works for the Australian Wildlife Health Centre in Healesville Sanctuary.
The vet team at the centre has three main roles; looking after wildlife patients, caring for the sanctuary animals, and working for the threatened species program.
Dr Chloe Steventon said the vet team members rotate the roles depending on the roster.
“We have three full-time vets every day. One covers the wildlife patients that come in from outside the sanctuary. We see around 2000 wildlife cases a year between birds, mammals, reptiles and frogs,” she said.
“Sometimes, I’m on the sanctuary round. I’m caring for the sanctuary animals that are here, and sometimes that’s dealing with emergencies that come up, and sometimes that is doing some preventative health care, making sure they stay healthy.
“We also do a lot of extensive work with the threatened species program, making sure those threatened species are healthy and well and helping out with research requests.
“Sometimes, I’m a procedures vet, doing the big surgeries. Rarely, we’re deployed outside of the sanctuary to help out with other welfare events.”
Although being a vet had always been her huge dream, Dr Steventon took some time to figure out what she wanted to do for her professional career, which she described as a “nonlinear pathway”.
After graduating high school, she took a hu-
manities course for a while, doing an arts degree specialising in history.
“I did visit the (Healesville) Sanctuary as a little girl and thought that this would just be a dream place to be. I didn’t even imagine I’d ever be here,” the vet said.
“ I was going to do it in a different pathway, and I just was unhappy, and I couldn’t figure out why.
“I finished the arts degree and thought I might as well try (for a veterinary degree).”
Dr Steventon started with a veterinary science degree at Charles Sturt University in New South Wales and then got into the double degree program, taking veterinary biology as well.
“I started looking after wildlife when I was still at university. I became a wildlife rescuer and rehabilitator, mostly because I wanted to handle birds and learn how to do that,” she said.
“Then, I suddenly saw wildlife everywhere and was so fascinated by it. I ended up being the person to investigate a big mass mortality, a huge amount of deaths in eastern grey kangaroos caused by plant toxicity, that we hadn’t seen before. That was a really exciting little venture into research as well as wildlife vetting.
After graduating from university, she worked in different places to gain practical experience as a vet.
“I went out into a country and I worked as a mixed practice vet, doing dogs and cats, but also cattle work and the very occasional horse,” Dr Steventon said.
“I, then, moved into small animal practice,
doing dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, rabbits, and guinea pigs.”
Combining her research and vet experiences, Dr Steventon was eventually successful in joining the vet team at her “dream workplace” in 2019 as part of the residency program.
“I did (the inbuilt honours program at university), and was able to show my interest in research,” the vet said.
“The residency (program) is a joint initiative between Zoos Victoria and the University of Melbourne, and (applicants need to) show not only their clinical skills but also their research skills.
“I did a two-year residency, both working as a clinical vet but also investigating some health research in Leadbeater’s possum.”
In light of her experience, Dr Steventon thinks it is important to love people as much as they love animals to be a vet.
“There’s not one animal that comes in without a person attached to it. There’s always an owner of your pet, someone who wants to adopt the stray, a zookeeper, a wildlife carer or a member of the public who’s really invested,” she said.
“We saw a butterfly recently, which is unusual for us, but the person, who gave it in, was very emotionally attached. So just being aware that, we need to make sure that we have really good people skills.
“In a setting like this, you’re never an individual. You’re always working in a big team of people, and you’re always leaning on each other’s specialties and interests.”
Dr Chloe Steventon sharing her story of the life of a vet at Healesville Sanctuary. (Zoos Victoria)
Benwerren needs a generator to ensure it can stay running during power outages this winter. (Supplied)
The GoFundMe has raised just under $1,000 of its $17,000 target so far.
By Oliver Winn
A crucial support service in Yarra Junction needs help
Benwerren aims to facilitate a homely vibe to make its guests feel safe and welcome.
Motorcycle show to roar
By Dongyun Kwon
After the huge success of the inaugural motorcycle show last year drawing over 100 people’s attention, Machine on the Green will return to Healesville.
This time, the event will be held at the Healesville RSL, on the green by the Grace Burn, on Sunday 27 April starting from 9am.
Event organiser Clifford Overton said Machine on the Green successfully raised about $300 and donated it to The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, a fundraiser for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health programs.
“Last year we had about 35 motorcycles on the green, and then a lot of visitors walked through to have a look,” he said.
“This year, all proceeds raised on the day will go towards the programs run by Healesville RSL that provide support for good mental health for veterans.”
All types of motorcycles will be welcome to enter for display with a $2 entry fee.
Each motorcycle will be eligible for the Best In Show award which will be chosen by the visitors.
Birds love their berries
If you’re trying to squeeze in more antioxidants and live a healthy lifestyle, why not take a leaf out of the book of Healesville Sanctuary's zookeepers?
The team is channelling their inner MasterChef by adding non-cultivated blueberries and raspberry crumble to fruit salad for their native birds, and it’s been a culinary hit.
Healesville Sanctuary bird coordinator Tammika Stasiak said the birds are going bonkers for berries.
“At this time of year, there’s loads of berries in the wild and we can provide those for the birds,” Mrs Stasiak said.
“The Topknot Pigeons have huge beaks which means they can down all different kinds of berries easily. As a northern bird from warmer climates, they are exposed to more tropical fruit and they fall face-first into the fruity mix.”
In the wild animals are exposed to many options in their diet, so we strive to provide as much variety as possible.
The mix changes from day to day, including honeydew melon, rock melon, apple, pear, paw paw, kiwi, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, peas, corn, carrot and currants.
Each day four kilos of fruit are provided to the birds across the Sanctuary.
12 native bird species at the Sanctuary are chowing down on the fruit mix as part of their diet.
Visitors can identify the Superb Parrot by their green and yellow feathers with a spot of red on their neck.
The Topknot Pigeons are larger than your average pigeon and have kooky brown feather on the top of their head that look like a 1950’s Elvis Presley hairstyle.
The visitors can purchase a Like On A Stick for $2 to vote for their favourite motorcycle at the show.
The event coordinating group will count up the likes to find out the Best In Show winner by midday.
Anyone, who wishes to display their motorcycle or have a look at the show, is encouraged to turn up and buy a ticket at the event. All
Can’t make it on Election Day?
If you can’t vote on Saturday 3 May, you may be eligible to vote early.
All Australian citizens aged 18 years and over are required by law to vote.
So, if you can’t make it to a polling place on election day, you may be eligible to: · vote early at an early voting centre, or · apply for a postal vote.
If you’re travelling, working or will be outside the electorate where you’re enrolled on election day, you can vote early.
To check early voting options and eligibility, visit aec.gov.au/early
Your vote will help shape Australia.
To learn more aec.gov.au/early 13 23 26
proceeds raised at this year’s event will go towards the programs run by Healesville RSL that provide support for good mental health for veterans. (Tanya Overton)
About 35 motorcycles entered into the show last year. (Tanya Overton)
Scholarships for duo
By Mikayla van Loon
For aspiring healthcare professionals undertaking lengthy degrees, placements and many hours of study all to pursue their passion of helping people, a little help can go a long way.
That is the premise and intention of Inspiro’s tertiary health scholarship program - awarding grants to deserving, community focused and academically exceeding students from the Yarra Ranges.
This year was no exception, with Inspiro awarding two scholarships, one for $12,500 to Lilydale’s Tamara McDonald, and the other for $10,000 to Kallista’s Ebony Huidobro-Hoare.
Inspiro’s chief executive officer Sue Sestan said in the past scholarships have been awarded to three or four recipients but this year the community health service wanted to make more of an impact in students’ lives.
“We believe that as a healthcare organisation, we actually have a responsibility for supporting future workforce in the health industry,” she said.
In her fifth of seven years of a psychology degree, Tamara, who gave up her corporate job in banking to embark on this path, said her ultimate dream would be to work with children.
“Ideally, I would like to work helping families and children, either with mental health or with navigating, perhaps schooling,” she said.
“There’s a lot of work in psychology around assessments, not necessarily autism assessments, but just to help tailor schooling. We know a lot more now that it’s not one size fits all, and every child is different.
“I think there’s a lot of work that needs to be done in how children are individualised throughout school and supported. I think that being able to draw out children’s strengths and then help teachers or people in their lives to support them the best that we can.”
As a mum of four children herself, Tamara knows this first hand, not only through her studies but seeing it play out in her own life.
Tamara said the support of her family and friends has been instrumental in her ability to take a new step and change careers.
This was evident in their presence at the award ceremony on Wednesday 16 April.
Ebony, who is in her second of four year physiotherapy degree, travels to La Trobe University’s Bendigo campus to complete her studies.
“I’m having to travel up and back to Bendigo every week, so this (scholarship will) definitely help me in terms of just the basics. Living on campus is really expensive and I’m currently at one of the local football clubs, helping as a trainer so I’ve got to be back home for that,” she said.
“And then, especially next year, it starts ramping up in terms of placement hours, so a lot of unpaid placement. It’ll definitely help with that.”
As someone who always had a “strong passion for health”, Ebony knew healthcare was the right fit.
“I was thinking about medicine or physio. I really liked the connection with your patients that you have as a physio, especially in a post surgical setting or anything severe, any long term chronic conditions. I really liked how they were able to monitor and manage and have a bit of control with that as well.
“So I decided to do physio, which was a really long path for me. So I finished high school, did two years of Health Sciences, and now I’ve gotten into physio. I’ve got four years in total.”
Wanting to help and support people who have come through a heart attack or a lung transplant, or kids with cystic fibrosis rather than being in a clinical setting, Ebony said her dream scenario would be to work in a hospital three days a week and then have her own clinic to continue patient care outside their hospital stay.
“I can be in a very community based setting and I’d love to keep up in that sports world as well on weekends. I’m really enjoying how I’m able to influence so many people who wouldn’t normally have access to care,” she said.
The tertiary health scholarships this year celebrated 25 years since their inception, first starting under the Lilydale Community Hospital and then taken on board by Inspiro in 2006.
Inspiro community advisory group member and inaugural chair Hamish Russell, who first initiated the scholarship program, said the awards are “something very special for our shire and for our people”.
“I don’t know any other health organisation that has committed itself to the future this way, the way Inspiro has,” he said.
Mr Russell commented that not only do recipients showcase incredible academic achievements, they also give back to their community, this year providing an astounding number of can-
didates who were worthy of the scholarship.
“Almost everyone we shortlisted for this award in other years might well have won one of the awards. That’s how good the competition was, and that’s always been my dream,” he said.
Ebony’s chosen path in volunteering and giving back to her community has been through sport, first as head coach of the Monbulk Marlins swimming team for five years and now as trainer for a football club.
Tamara also helps out at her children’s various sporting clubs but her volunteering was mostly done at Caladenia Dementia Care in Mooroolbark but since starting her masters, she has had to postpone her time there.
“With everything going on, I would leave there just feeling the top of the world. I just feel so humbled, and I just absolutely loved it. I was always in such a good mood afterwards. It really gives you a really good perspective on what’s important in life,” she said.
Over the 25 years of the scholarship, Mr Russell said around $225,000 has been granted to students of all different disciplines.
“I’m delighted to have been associated with it all this time and I can’t think of a nicer day in the year,” he said.
Tamara McDonald and Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child.
Hamish Russell and Ebony Huidobro-Hoare.
Inspiro CEO Sue Sestan, Ebony Huidobro-Hoare and Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child.
Hamish Russell and Tamara McDonald.
Ebony Huidobro-Hoare and Tamara McDonald were the lucky recipients of Inspiro’s tertiary health scholarships for 2025. (Mikayla van Loon: 472958)
Tamara was supported by her family at the award ceremony.
Ebony and her family.
Honouring a top member
On Wednesday 16 April, the Badger Creek and District Men’s Shed held a major event to celebrate and honour a long-standing member of the men’s shed, Alan Jones.
In company with the members and the committee, president Greg Suhr presented Mr Jones with a Certificate of Appreciation for his long years of dedication to the Badger Creek and District Men’s Shed.
The shed started operating at the Healesville Living and Learning Centre on Don Road in 2009. Theshed,then,movedtoBadgerCreekin2013.
Mr Jones has previously accepted many roles including convenor, president and treasurer.
The members, then, presented the Honour Roll with Mr Jones’ name proudly added to the other recipients.
The other members on the roll included two existing members John Lathan and Mario Herodotus.
The Badger Creek and District Men’s Shed are proud of the members who take on extra duties to ensure the success of the men’s shed.
Brand new community noticeboard for Wandin
By Oliver Winn
A highly anticipated community noticeboard was unveiled in Wandin North on Saturday 12 April and is expected to help promote businesses and facilitate community.
The noticeboard was installed in the prime location of Wandin Recreation Reserve where many community groups can leverage the noticeboard to their advantage.
Community Bank Wandin-Seville executive officer Leah Thompson said the new noticeboard was a “big deal” for the community as it will bring many benefits to not only businesses but also other community groups.
“The noticeboard will enable more community groups to leverage the Wandin Recreation Reserve, which is the true community hub of Wandin.”
Some examples of the different groups which will benefit from the noticeboard are
the Wandin North Community summer movie nights, the Wandin CFA, local primary schools, the Rotary Club of Wandin, and of course, sporting clubs.
The Community Bank Wandin-Seville funded $75,000 for the installation of the noticeboard.
“Tenant clubs came to us with the issues of not having a noticeboard,” Ms Thompson said.
“These issues included the Wandin Recreation Reserve having no digital footprint to support community events, the previous digital solution having no ability to be upgraded to further facilitate evolving community demand and the previous scoreboard facility for tenant clubs not being able to suitably recognise sponsors and community partners.”
The noticeboard was dedicated to longterm member of the Wandin Football Club, Rob Bayliss.
The noticeboard has been dedicated to long serving member of the Wandin Football Club, Rob Bayliss. (Supplied)
President Greg Suhr (left) handing Honour Roll to long-standing member Alan Jones. (Supplied)
Lightshow dazzles crowds
By Oliver Winn
The town of Millgrove was awash with colourful rays on Saturday 12 April for Millgrove Residents Action Group’s (MRAG) annual light show.
The sold out event saw 350 attendees wander through dazzling light displays as they encountered the local legends of Millgrove, the theme for this year’s show.
Each encounter shed light on the influential figures who make up Millgrove’s past as participants were guided to Platts Falls.
The event is sponsored by the Yarra Ranges Council and the Community Bank WarburtonYarra Junction.
MRAG president Maureen Halit said this year’s light show was an absolute success.
“It was booked out again, and along with the beautiful weather, it was amazing,” she said.
“Weeks and weeks of work by a big crew of dedicated volunteers went into the event.”
MRAG won the Yarra Ranges Council Community Group of the Year Award last year and in 2012.
Blue, green and red rays light up Evelyn’s backyard.
The tour guides and performers. Poetry recitation under a red glow.
Platts Falls projected onto a building. (Supplied)
Purple hues cast upon a tree on Dee Rd.
Ms Halit and Mr Benard introducing the tour and trekkers.
Sarah Rose playing the Accordion.
Mrs Jenkins.
Housing dominates debate
By Maria Millers
They think I’m building a house. I’m building a haven, not with brick, but with tenderness.
“What They Don’t Know” by Jericho Brown Housing seems to have moved centre stage in the election debates and while Brown’s poem is a reminder of how nurturing a home can be is shared by many, regrettably not by everyone. Not all homes are nurturing havens and memories of home and an oppressive father for poet Sylvia Plath were very different indeed: I have always been scared of you, With your Luftwaffe, your gobbledygoo.
Daddy – Sylvia Plath
But whether nurturing or otherwise what is indisputable is that the right to shelter or adequate affordable housing is a recognized human right enshrined in International Law.
But sadly not protected in the Australian Constitution.
In Australia housing policy is treated primarily as an economic issue not as a rights based one.
The focus is on markets, ownership, and investment—not shelter, security, dignity, or fairness.
Australia’s obsession with home ownership is not just about having a place to live, but is tied to ideas of success and social status.
That has definitely created a divide between those who have ‘made it’ onto the property ladder and those left renting or priced out from both.
People experiencing or at risk of homelessness include single parents, low income essential workers, First Nations People, young people and even some who despite full time employment, can’t keep up with mortgage or rent.
With Anzac Day, this week we should also think about the many veterans who are homeless.
The right to housing must include our veterans.
We honour their service with medals, but leave them without a place to sleep. There is without doubt a housing crisis.
NEWS
WOORILLA
WORDS
There are just not enough affordable houses or rentals to go around.
And this is why housing has become such a hot potato topic.
Wages haven’t kept up with house prices. So the old promise of ‘work hard and you’ll own a home’ feels hollow.
We still talk about the Australian Dream, the mythical home of John Williamson’s song which hardly reflects our society today.
Give me a home among the gumtrees
With lots of plum trees
A sheep or two, a k-kangaroo
A clothesline out the back
Verandah out the front
And an old rocking chair
But the desire to own property remains strong as parents urge offspring to get ‘a foot on the property ladder’ and as we know often provide the deposit.
Perhaps it’s time to go beyond the solutions put forward by all parties and look at the philosophical thinking around housing reflected in the language used.
When you think about it: we have a whole vocabulary built around housing: a potential home is evaluated whether it’s ‘a good investment.’
And somewhere along the way, aspirational became code for a four-bedroom house, two bathrooms, and a mortgage the size of a small country.
It’s seen as a pathway into a kind of suburban middle class respectability.
We talk about aspirational suburbs, aspira-
tional buyers, getting on the ladder—as if aspiration itself is only applicable to real estate.
So often used in this context it has almost lost its broader meaning.
It has stopped meaning hopeful, visionary, ambitious in any way that doesn’t end in bricks and equity.
What that does, though, is subtly devalue other kinds of aspiration: It can be seen in the way anyone choosing to pursue a creative social goal such as artist, teacher, carer or just someone who seeks stability without the pressure of accumulation is not valued.
Whereas taking on a massive mortgage, chasing capital growth to the exclusion of all else is celebrated as success.
As poet WH Auden’s satire on the man who did everything ‘right’ in society’s eyes asks: Was he free? Was he happy? The question is absurd: Had anything been wrong, we should certainly have heard.
Unknown Citizen”– W. H. Auden
It’s like changing the meaning of any cultural myth: it starts with language, stories, and visibility.
If enough people start using aspirational to mean something broader, richer, and more human, the weight of that old narrow meaning starts to crack.
But people still must have somewhere to live, be safe and raise families.
Cities like Vienna, Copenhagen, or even parts of Japan show that affordability, density, and quality can coexist.
These countries show how a different approach can work Vienna is such a great example: over 60 per cent of the population lives in social or cooperative housing, and it’s beautifully designed, well-maintained, and integrated into all parts of city life.
After WWII, Australia had a severe housing shortage and in response, the Federal Government offered cheap land, low-interest loans, and infrastructure development to encourage families (especially returned soldiers) to build or buy homes in the suburbs.
At the same time they initiated programs like
the Commonwealth-State Housing Agreement (1945)—which invested heavily in public housing.
Lots of people have gone from public housing to do great things in the world.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is a notable example. Raised in public housing in innercity Sydney by a single mother on a pension, he often credits his upbringing with shaping his commitment to social justice and equality.
Jennifer Westacott, the Chief Executive of the Business Council of Australia, also grew up in public housing in New South Wales.
In the sports world, cricketer David Warner and actor Bryan Brown have both credited their humble beginnings in public housing with instilling resilience and determination.
Richard Glover, author and ABC presenter for many years grew up in Doveton, Victoria, a suburb that was predominantly public housing during his childhood.
In his memoir Flesh Wounds, Glover reflects on his experiences growing up in this workingclass area, where by 1966 around 2500 homes had been built.
Policies from the 1980s saw dere4gulation, privatisation and tax incentives like negative gearing and capital gains tax discount encouraging people to invest in property.
At the same time, public housing declined, was neglected and even demonized.
As home ownership started to become harder for many it was less about shelter and more about wealth creation.
Renting became more common, and the dream began to slip away for younger generations and the more vulnerable.
Many now see it as either unrealistic or unappealing.
The crisis isn’t just about not being able to buy a home.
It’s about lack of stability, security, dignity, and choice.
And it’s being felt mostly by the very people who keep the country functioning.
Local landmarks added to Her Place Women’s Museum
An Australian rock icon, an Aboriginal women’s safety advocate and a pioneer of Melbourne’s Italian cuisine scene are among 16 new stories being shared on an interactive map recognising significant Victorian women.
Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins recently announced 15 new locations, including three in the Yarra Ranges, being added to Her Place Women’s Museum’s Finding Her map after more than 50 nominations from Victorians.
Ms Hutchins said they’re bringing women’s stories out of the shadows into our streets – so every Victorian can see and celebrate the trailblazers who helped shape our state.
“Whether you explore the map online or visit the sites in person, you’ll be inspired by the women behind these stories – and how their legacies continue to shape Victoria today,” she said.
The local landmarks added are:
Beryl Phillips Reserve named for community leader and environmentalist Beryl Phillips in Mount Evelyn
Edna Walling cottage and garden commemorating Victoria’s first female landscape architect Edna Walling in Sherbrooke
A memorial stone commemorating beloved local historian Val Sheehan in Coldstream
A dreaming trail and history walk including a commemoration to Aboriginal rights activist, educator and artist Hyllus Maris in Healesville
Her Place Women’s Museum Board Chair the Honourable Mary Delahunty said women have played a vital role in shaping Victoria, leading the law, schools and universities, creating businesses and scientific breakthroughs,
becoming Premiers, ridden Melbourne Cup winners, won Logies and Oscars.
“Now through research and a public nominations process, Her Place Women’s Museum has discovered more stories and sites to celebrate,” she said.
“These additions to the Finding Her Project will make more Women visible and start to re-
balance the history books.”
Finding Her is Australia’s first interactive map spotlighting locations that commemorate women and gender-diverse people across Victoria.
The initiative, launched in March 2023, is part of Her Place Women’s Museum’s mapping of more than 60 women and gender diverse
people who have shaped Victoria, linking the places and monuments that they are connected to with videos, stories and photographs of their lives via QR codes on every site.
To explore the full map, visit findingher.org. au.
The other new sites include:
• A plaque for first nations leader Antoinette Braybrook AM in Melton
• A sculpture of beloved matriarch Aunty Alma Roach at O’Donnell Gardens in St Kilda
• Amphlett Lane - a commemorative lane featuring murals honouring Australian rock icon Chrissy Amphlett in Melbourne
• Constance Stone lane - named after the first woman to practice medicine in Australia Dr Constance Stone in Melbourne
• Hanna Watts Park named for pioneering local Midwife “Grannie” Hannah Watts in Melton
• The grave of leading suffragist Henrietta Dugdale in Queenscliff
• A mural featuring disability pride activist Lesley Hall OAM
• A mural celebrating iconic artist Mirka Mora in St Kilda
• A laneway named after one of Australia’s first female test match cricketers Nell McLarty in South Melbourne
• A sculpture commemorating politician and LGBTIQA+ ally Olive Zakharov in South Melbourne
• A mural of restaurateur Teresa Bruno in Brunswick East
• The Great Petition sculpture honouring women who petitioned for the right to vote in Melbourne
Edna Walling’s (pictured) cottage and garden in Sherbrooke is one of the locations added to the Finding Her map.
A story about sisterhood
The Sirens, by Australian author Emilia Hart, is an intriguing story about two sets of sisters.
Lucy is a university student in modern-day Australia, while her estranged sister Jessica is an artist working in Comber Bay in the south coast of New South Wales.
Both have a rare skin condition that impacts negatively on their self-esteem.
After a violent incident on campus, Lucy attempts seeking shelter at Jessica’s place, but finds her missing in suspicious circumstances.
While staying in Comber Bay and searching for clues about Jessica’s life, Lucy unearths various secrets about their shared past – and the trauma that led their paths apart.
In particular, both Lucy and Jessica have increasingly vivid dreams about twin sisters Mary and Eliza, two women transported to Australia from Ireland on a convict ship two hundred years earlier.
Both also find themselves drawn to the myster-
CARTOON
PASSION FOR PROSE
WITH CHRISTINE SUN
ies surrounding the disappearances of eight men in Comber Bay.
The story is told alternatively from the perspectives of Lucy, Mary, Jessica’s diary, and later Jessica herself.
The voices and tones, while exquisitely evocative and beautiful, remain relatively identical from one character to the next.
The multiple and occasionally nonlinear story-
Vampires in the musical south with note of humanity
Sinners
Starring Michael B. Jordan, Miles Caton and Hailee Steinfeld
MA15+
4.5/5
Sinners is a stand-out fusion of horror, action and musical helmed by Black Panther and Creed writer-director Ryan Coogler.
In 1932, African-American twin brothers Smoke and Stack (both played by Michael B. Jordan) start a nightclub in their hometown of Mississippi, but must defend their family from vampires.
Sinners is a mesmerising slow-burn, with the first act immersing us in the twins’ rough but industrious lives and the musical ambitions of their cousin Sammie (played by Miles Caton in a phenomenal once-in-a-generation acting debut).
The film is replete in the energising power of music, especially in the rollicking second act, with human and monster alike revelling in the joy, sexuality and community music brings (and a musical sequence with the pack of vampires brilliantly turns an Irish jig into a chant before battle).
With ravishing costumes and lighting, Sinners looks as great as it sounds: shot on 70 mm film, Sinners’ cinematography has a careful, steady framing and deliberate vision you don’t often get from digital filmmaking these days.
Plus, the doubling effects for Jordan are seamless.
The vampires are scary – savage maulers or eerie lurkers when needed – but still have a note of humanity in their deep bond through song and shared memories.
Sinners takes on a more grindhouse Tarantino-ish feel in the action-heavy climax, but maintains its white-knuckle tension, engrossing dialogue and richly-defined characters until the bloody end.
There is just one epic musical sequence late in the second act that, while dripping with style and passion, may lose some viewers with its time-bending artistic choices.
Sinners is a riveting, beautifully-shot character-driven horror film supercharged with music, and is playing in most Victorian cinemas.
lines further slow the pacing, prompting readers to observe details and reflect on the characters’ experiences.
This deliberate approach helps to immerse readers in each character’s feelings, emotions and memories, encouraging us to delve into those dramatic, meandering events that influence and even determine their decisions and actions.
Doing so requires the author’s stringent control of the imaginable and plausible development of both characters and plots, as well as the ability to substantiate the process with sufficient and believable details.
In this regard, perhaps the story is let down by its attempt to connect female empowerment and self-determination with folklore, to use fantasy elements to provide a (false?) sense of security allowing the female characters to feel protected and their grievances avenged.
Disconcertingly, although various crimes are committed against women throughout the book, none of the perpetrators is punished by law.
Worse, instead of the promised magical protection, the story is bookended by Lucy and Jessica taking matters into their own hands, and one has to wonder whether or not their actions can be condoned.
Meanwhile, on top of her being callously dismissed by the system that is supposed to help her right the wrongs, Lucy’s injustice is practically forgotten as the story shifts its focus to slowly revealing the puzzling link between the two sets of sisters and especially between Lucy and Jessica.
With all that said, to this reviewer, the story shines in its empathetic depiction of the convict women and their plight.
It is their resilience and courage, their mutual support and loyalty, that make them unforgettable characters.
It is the bond they share in adversity – their sisterhood – that sustains them. It shows us that women do not need magic or fantasy to achieve agency, autonomy and self-reliance.
Gang-gang cockatoo seen
A male Gang-gang cockatoo was spotted in Emerald on Wednesday, 16 April - the special moment was captured by Robyn Kuys, when she saw the bird enjoying the berries from her dogwood tree.
The striking bird, with its red head and grey feathers, perched calmly in the branches, nibbling on the sweet fruit.
It’s not every day we get such a beautiful visitor in our backyards, and Ms Kuys was quick to share her excitement with us.
Discover entertainment at neighbourhood theatres
The 1812 Theatre
The Thrill of Love
A story of Ruth Ellis, the last woman to be hanged in England for murder. Written by Amanda Whittington.
The Bakery@1812 was the venue for the performance.
Entering one saw and heard a nightclub singer on audience right. This did bring back memories to your reviewer who grew up in this era of nightclubbing.
Angelina Thompson was the singer, dressed in an evening gown of red and a lovely voice.
Playing Ruth Ellis was Katherine Williams who handled the character with finesse and gave a full professional performance.
The Police Inspector, Jack Gale, was played by Mark Crowe.
A warm and good performance of an understanding policeman who couldn’t understand Ruth’s attitude.
Kate Bowers as Sylvia Shaw was the manager of a nightclub who gave Ruth a job of managing another nightclub. Kate handed the role with ease giving a great and understanding performance as Ruth’s friend.
Vickie Martin played by Francesca Carl who also gave great performance as the character.
Doris Judd was played by Freya Timmer-Arends.
Freya lived up to the standards set by the and expected of 1812 Theatre giving a good interpretation of the character.
The play opened with Ruth being questioned by Jack Gale as to why she would not answer his questions. The scene then moved to her story and her life in the world of nightclubs.
A first class produced by The 1812 theatre and one not forgotten.
Burrinja Theatre
Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow, 2025 Australia’s most iconic comedy tor is hitting the road for a huge 27th year!
Bringing together the brightest stars from the 2025 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, we’re delivering top-tier humour straight to your town.
This year’s Roadshow promises nation-wide happiness.
Kemp’s curtain call
So, grab your friends, book your and prepare for a much-needed does of laughter as the 2025 Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow rolls into Upwey.
Season: Saturday 26 April at 7.30pm.
Karralyka Theatre
Celebrating the Seekers – 60 Years
Keith Potger’s solo tribute to the group he helped form back in 1962 covers the songs, the stories and the influences that shaped The Seekers in their rise to international fame Celebrating The Seekers 60 Years is an audio-visual treat, with rare footage and still photos of the group.
His 12-string guitar was an integral part of their sound and being the arranger of the vocal harmonies, he had an unique place in the group. During his performance Keith plays a special tribute to his colleague and dear friend of many years, the late and great Judith Durham.
Season: Tuesday 22 April at 11.30am.
The Round Theatre
Meet Xie Li Tonight
A fusion of Classical and Modern
Blending the rich heritage of classical music with contemporary pop elements, this concert offers an unique experience that highlights divers regional musical cultures.
Featuring Xie Li, Deputy Secretary0General of the Melbourne Musicians Association and Leader of the Melbourne Vic Arts Group, will showcase her exquisite vocal artistry.
She has headlined the Chinese New Year organised by the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office, sharing the stage with renowned artists such as Yan Wenwen, Cai Guoqing and Li Shengsu.
Since 2018, Xie Li has successfully designed and directed numerous Chinese New Ne Year Galas and large scale concerts.
Season: Wednesday 23 April at 7pm.
A gang-gang cockatoo was spotted in Emerald. (Robyn Kuys)
MODERN TWIST ON HISTORIC FARMHOUSE
NESTLED in a peaceful valley just minutes from Pakenham, this unique property seamlessly blends contemporary living with historic charm. Set on 7 flat, usable acres with the picturesque Bessie Creek winding through, it offers an exceptional lifestyle opportunity. The light-filled, modern residence features four generous bedrooms, including a master retreat with bi-fold doors that open directly onto the deck—perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation. The open-plan kitchen and living area showcase striking timber and stainless-steel finishes, with expansive windows framing the lush rural views.
A second living space pays homage to the property’s rich past, complete with exposed timber beams, ambient rafter lighting, and preserved historic newspapers dating back to 1892. Local folklore suggests the property once served as the district’s post office, adding to its undeniable character and story. Outdoors, the property is fully equipped for rural living, with multiple well-fenced paddocks, two large sheds, a menage, and plenty of space for vehicle parking. The everflowing Bessie Creek ensures green paddocks year-round, making this an ideal setting for hobby farming, horses, or simply enjoying wide open spaces.
Contact Mick Dolphin on 0429 684 522 or Alison Barkley on 0494 175 410 to arrange your private inspection today.
YOUR DREAM BLOCK
SEIZE the opportunity to own this stunning piece of land in the peaceful part of Kallista! Nestled amidst lush greenery and natural beauty, this generous 1895m² block offers the perfect location for your dream home (STCA).
Enjoy the wildlife, beautiful, filtered views and location that is close to local shops, parks, schools and of course, walking trails.
The block can be viewed from Williams Road, however if you would like to walk the block, please contact us to arrange access from Ridge Road. The block is currently known as 1/13 Ridge Road, Kallista however for marketing purposes and google map directions, it is being advertised as 37 William Road.
* Views as seen from street frontage on William Rd
HOME FOCUS
‘DOONAHA’ – TIMELESS NATURAL SANCTUARY
‘***** VIEWINGS BY APPOINTMENT*****
A rare opportunity to own a characterfilled limestone residence, ‘Doonaha’ is a masterfully crafted sanctuary set on 1.4 acres of breathtaking landscape. Enveloped by established gardens, fruit and nut trees, and exotic flora, this fully fenced property is a haven for birdlife and nature lovers alike.
Step inside to discover a home that blends heritage charm with modern comfort, where bespoke reclaimed materials and quality craftsmanship shine. High ceilings, 8-inch skirting boards, and exquisite hand-cut Victorian Ash parquetry flooring create an atmosphere of refined sophistication.
Exceptional Features:
Gourmet Kitchen – Stunning sandstone benchtops, handcrafted blackwood cabinetry, walk-in pantry, and elegant glass splashback.
• Elegant Bathroom – Luxurious claw-foot bath and separate shower.
• Spacious Living – Three well-appointed bedrooms, each with built-in robes.
• Outdoor Entertaining – A full wraparound verandah, featuring a cozy fireplace on the eastern side, plus two additional decks for alfresco living.
Grand Carport & Workshop – Oregon beam 8x14.5m carport with brick floor, plus a 10x8m workshop with mezzanine, concrete flooring, and dual roller doors. Upper and lower driveways. Shedding.
• Sustainable & Secure – 18-panel solar system, gated entry with solar-powered automation, and a mains gas-powered 8kVA generator ensuring uninterrupted power. 5G availability, Fibre to premises in ceiling
• Year-Round Comfort – Efficient gas ducted heating for cozy winters. Ducted vacuuming. For those seeking a residence that exudes warmth, character, and timeless beauty, ‘Doonaha’ offers an unparalleled lifestyle in a tranquil, yet well-connected setting. Proudly positioned in a quiet no through road with Puffing Billy chugging nearby, you are within walking distance to a bus stop and a quick drive to Cockatoo and Emerald townships. There won’t be another ‘Doonaha’, Mick Dolphin 0429 684 522 or Alison Barkley 0494 175 410 are looking forward to showing you this property by private inspection.
This locationisas peaceful asitis perfect!A character-filled,rustic retreatfeaturing vaultedceilings,open-planlivinganddiningarea, acozy fireplace,anoutdoor zone with Balinesetouches, acoveredarea, lushgardens, anda waterfall.Central timber kitchen, with awalk-in pantry,amplestorage,generousbenchspace,a wall oven,gas cooktop, anddishwasher.Ductedheating, awoodfire,anda splitsystemfor comfort.Single carport,two smaller sheds anda large shedalso.
MickDolphin 0429684522
AlisonBarkley 0494175410
IMMACULATEHISTORICCOTTAGE
CHARACTERANDCHARM
Locatedona flat,nearacre,backingontoMenziesCreek andwalkingtracks.Established gardens, afishpondwithwaterfall, asealeddrivewayandrearaccesstotheblock, garage,and agardenshed/chook pen.Thehouseconsistsof abespoke‘CarvillsBaltic Pine’kitchenwithdishwasher,andthemainlivingareafeaturing a‘Nectre’woodheater MasterbedroomwithWIR,renovatedbathroomoffering aclawfootbath.Remote controlledGDH,splitsystem,airconditionerandinstantGHW,plusa wiredingenerator
MickDolphin 0429684522
AlisonBarkley 0494175410
CONVENIENTLOCATIONON ASPACIOUSBLOCK
Setona generous625m²cornerblock,thisdelightful3-bedroomhomeoffersspace, comfort,and lifestyleflexibility.Withsideaccess idealforstoring acaravan /boat.This propertycaterstotheneedsofgrowingfamiliesina highlysoughtafterlocation,close toschools,shopsandeasy accessonto WellingtonRoad.Bright, open-planlivingarea designedformodernliving,Gas ducted heatingandevaporative coolingthroughoutthe home.Outdoors,is afabulousentertainingareaand asecure,fullyfenced yard.
toitsoriginalsplendour!With Pinefloorboardsthroughout acosy floorplanoffering alargekitchenwith ample benchspace,located offtheliving roomwith awoodfire.Whatitcould beisuptoyou. Maybekeeptheoutside character andcreatea modernmasterpieceinside?Outsideisyourveryowndecksetamongst
HOME FOCUS
IMMACULATE FAMILY HOME IN PRIME SPOT
TUCKED away in a peaceful, private pocket of Upwey, yet just moments from the vibrant main street, 26 Birdwood Avenue delivers the perfect balance of convenience, comfort, and space. This solid and beautifully maintained four-bedroom, two-bathroom home sits on a generous 1,174m² (approx.) block, offering an incredible lifestyle opportunity in a highly sought-after location.
From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a light-filled main living area that captures all-day sun and opens onto a lovely front balcony-perfect for your morning coffee or soaking in the serene surrounds. The home includes split system heating and cooling, ensuring comfort year-round, and a second living area downstairs, ideal as a teenager’s retreat, rumpus, or flexible living space.
The backyard is a standout-level, spacious, and private-offering plenty of room for kids, pets, or outdoor entertaining. There’s also a large solar system on the roof, helping you save on energy, and two single carports for undercover parking.
Enjoy being just a short walk to Upwey’s shops, cafes, train station, and local schools, while still feeling tucked away from the hustle and bustle.
If you’re after a move-in-ready home with room to grow in one of the hills’ best locations, this is the one.
TWIN GUMS – PARADISE ON EARTH
NESTLED at the end of Big Pats Creek Road, “Twin Gums” is a sanctuary that has been described as paradise on earth. Spanning over 3200sqm of lush, natural beauty, this home offers an unparalleled sense of serenity and harmony.
As you approach the property, you’re greeted by the tranquility of your surroundings – a landscape that evokes peace and calm. This beautiful home welcomes you with comfort and style and impeccable decor, providing a serene and charming atmosphere. Featuring large open plan living, this home effortlessly blends the outside in with room for relaxation and entertainment.
The modern kitchen is equipped with large windows that invite natural light while offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The servery to the outdoor entertaining area enhances the home’s connection to nature, making it ideal for family gatherings. With both a wood fire and split system air conditioning, you’ll stay comfortable and cozy throughout the year, no matter the season.
The master retreat is a true haven, boasting oversized windows that frame tranquil views of the natural bush and ferns – a peaceful sight to wake up to each morning. The ensuite and built in robes complete this luxurious space. Three further beautifully appointed bedrooms, a large family bathroom and laundry
continue the home’s theme of elegance and functionality.
Outside, the property transforms into your very own resort, the expansive garden, with winding paths is a paradise for both relaxation and exploration. A large, charming pond, big enough to canoe, or sit and soak in the beauty of the floating waterlilies and relax and unwind on the deck.
The birdlife here is abundant, adding an element of natural beauty that will never cease to inspire. With a seasonal creek running through the property, bridges, and a nature walk within your own boundaries, you’ll be able to explore and reconnect with nature at every step.
The large garage with power, concrete floor, and ample parking options provides everything you need for a functional and organized space, perfect for hobbies or additional storage.
Privacy and space are in abundance, with the property being tucked away at the end of a quiet road, while still being just across the road from Big Pats Creek and the Yarra Valley Walking Track. This is a rare opportunity to connect with nature and experience a lifestyle like no other.
Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat or a place to entertain, Twin Gums offers everything you could ever desire. Come and experience the beauty and serenity of this incredible property – it’s a place to call home.
GloriousAcreswitha FantasticFamilyLifestyle
Arareopportunitytosecurea beautifullypresentedsmallacreagepropertywithcommanding viewsinpeacefulsurroundings.Sittingonjustunder 7sensationalacreswith2 separateresidences andofferingtheidealrelaxedlifestyle.Themainhomeisspacious,beautifullypresentedandoffers 4goodsizebedroomsallwithbuiltinrobesincludinga kingsizemasterbedroomwith awalkin robe,ensuiteandparentsretreat.Inadditiontothemainhomethereis aseparatewellpresented 3bedroomhomewithmultiplelivingandfamilyrooms,spaciouskitchenandmealsareait’sthe idealplaceforextrafamilymembersortheextendedfamily.Everyonewilllovetheoutdoorswith beautifulestablishedgardens,doublecarportplus atrueclassicoldstylebarnwithamplecar accommodationandworkshopspacewithupstairsgamesroomorextraaccommodation.
SmallAcreageParadisein aFantasticLocation
Positionedtopleasethisbeautifulsmallacreagehobbyfarmistheidealplacetostarttherelaxed countrylifestyle,situatedonapprox.4.5acresofrollingpastures,thereisloadsofspaceforthe growingfamilytospreadoutandenjoy.Currentlysetuptosuitthehorseenthusiastwithmultiple paddocksandsheltersplus 3stablesandholdingyardsplusa largebarnwithmezzaninefloor.The countrystylehomeiswarm,homelyandinvitingoffering 2goodsizedbedroomsplusa family/ loungeareawithgasheatingandmultiplesplitsystemsthroughoutthehome.Thekitcheniswell appointedandhasplentyofbenchandcupboardspaceincludinga separatemeals/diningarea.A sensationalpropertyinanexceptionallocationbackingontotheWarburtontrailandjusta shortwalk tolocalschools,shopsandtransportit’sa greatplaceforthefamilytocallhome.
PrimeGRZ1LocationwithLoadsofPotential Afantasticandconvenientlocation,thischarmingoldhomeisinneedofsomeworkbutoffers endlesspotentialbeingoneofthelastlargetownshipparcelsoflandavailable.Boastingapprox. 2335sqmofprimeYarraJunctiontownshiprealestatewithGRZ1zoningallowingsubdivisionpotential {STCA}.Anideallocation,mainstreetfrontageanda superbeasylivingpositionwithjust ashort strolltoYarraJunctions’shoppinghub,localschoolsandtransport.A greatinvestmentfornowandin thefuturewithplentyofoptionsonofferina popularandsoughtafterarea.
25ClarkeAvenue,Warburton $630,000 -$670,000
4BedroomHomeinDesirableClarkeAvenueLocation Nestledinthesought-afterClarkeAvenue,thisdelightful4 bedroom,1 bathroomhomeoffersa fantasticopportunitytocreateyourdreamlivingspace.Seton aspacious,flat922sqmallotment,this propertyboastsincrediblepotentialwithroomforimprovementwhilestillprovidinga comfortable andfunctionallayout.Thelargekitchenandmealsareaareidealforfamilygatherings,offering amplespaceforcookinganddining.Themainbathroomisneatandtidy,andthegenerouslysized laundryaddspracticalitytothehome.Outside,thelow-maintenanceyardiscomplementedbya doublecarport,providingplentyofoff-streetparkingandconvenience.Locatedonthesunnyside oftown,thishomeisperfectforthoselookingfor apeacefulyetaffordableoptionin afantastic location.
RebeccaDoolan M 0401832068
PUZZLES
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.
ACROSS
1 Department (6)
4 Sequence (6)
10 Paunch (5)
11 Grant (9)
12 Belonging to a thing by its very nature (9)
13 Sound (5)
14 Habitations (6)
15 Border (4)
19 At the top (4)
20 Dramatics (6)
24 Perfume (5)
25 Tequila cocktai (9)
27 Exhibition rooms (9)
28 Indigenous people of New Zealand (5)
29 Foil (6)
30 Harmony (6)
DOWN
1 Of the Bible (8)
2 Link (8)
3 Whenever (7)
5 Improve (7)
6 Roma is its capital (6)
7 Appeared (6)
8 Video discs (1,1,2)
9 Candied citrus peel (7)
16 Obsolete email service (7)
17 Guests (8)
18 Relating to cultivated land (8)
19 Hobbyist (7)
21 Monty Python member, Graham – (7)
22 Trapped (6)
23 Succeed (6)
26 Flower (4)
Andy takes top voucher
By Ron Hottes
The V.V.V’s:
No comp this week, due to low numbers.
As an aside, no results next week either as the Club is running a separate Easter Stableford event.
Wednesday April 16th: PAR:
We had enough starters this week to run both an A Grade and a B Grade competition. Both Grade winners posted excellent plus 2 results.
In A Grade, Andy Lockey, who has discovered a rare vein of form recently, won with his plus 2, which was just good enough to earn the top voucher over Angus Hall.
Angus scored a respectable plus 1. Balls here dropped down to minus 1. And, in B Grade, another consistent golfer in John Haynes also recorded a plus 2, but he had to survive a countback, as Mario DeVincentis also had an impressive plus 2.
Balls here extended to minus 2.
The NTPs were taken home as follows by: Gary Vollmer (1st), Mario DeVincentis (3rd), Darryl Ward (9th) and by Ross Machar, (15th).
Easter Golf: The Club ran a Stableford comp for
the four days over Easter, here are just the results for three of those events - Easter Monday results will be listed in the next edition.
Friday 18th: Greg Vennell won this day with 38 points on a countback from young Jaiden Lever, (also 38).
Balls got down to 32.
NTP winners were Clinton Toohey (3rd and 9th), Noel Cross (12th), Danny Fox (15th) and Paul Osbourne (17th).
Saturday 19 April: This day’s winner, with an excellent total of 37 points, was Steuart Hawke.
Although, Jason Kennedy forced a countback as his 37 points just fell short of claiming the A Grade voucher.
Balls reached down to 33.
In B-Grade, Mr. Millar grabbed the B Grade prize with 35 points.
Brayden edged out Tim Jones who posted a 34 point result.
Balls got down to 31.
Finally, NTP winners were Kevin Smith (3rd), Alan Macdonald (9th), Josh Hin (12th), Stuart Patrick (15th) and to guest Tim Peacock from Yarrawonga, (17th).
This week’s horse talk
By Anita Prowse
Quite a lot on around the Valley this week. Wednesday saw Shirley Heights EC Mid-week Dressage run, and the winners were:
• 5*test Samuel Jefferee on Santoro,
• Inter A Margaret Ferguson on Heatherton Park Chemistry,
• PSG Clinton Rich on Coldstream Quartertime,
• Advanced Margaret Ferguson on Viscounts
Trades & Services
Encore,
• Medium Sarah Handscomb on Mac,
• Elementary Kate Van Elmpt on Primrose Park Lilly,
• Novice Kylie Pedder on Carool Furst Denali,
• Prelim Andrew Heseltine on Quanberto,
• Prep Kylie Waite on Jasper. Yarra Valley Jumping Club ran their Annual Show also at Shirley Heights EC - some of Saturdays winners were:
• Open 1.30 Paul Brent on Chloe’s Portrait,
• OTT 1.20 Darcy Prime on Saddle Up Smudge,
• Open 1.20 Scottie Barclay on Cashed Up,
• Open 1.10 Tanner Robinson on Yalambis Corlandia,
• Open 1.00 Jaz Reynolds on Nateo,
• Open .90 Ethan Reynolds on Electra Boogaloo,
• OTT .90 Lylia Ferrari on Prince Calaf.
• Well done everyone and happy riding.
Last week, the Shirley Heights EC Mid-week Dressage run took place on Wednesday and the Yarra Valley Jumping Club ran their Annual Show at the same ground. (Supplied)
The Club ran a Stableford comp for the four days over Easter, with Greg Vennell winning on the Good Friday with 38 points. (File)
Strong start for outer east
By Callum Ludwig
Soccer clubs have kicked off their seasons in recent weeks, but with clubs taking a week off for the Easter break, here’s how local sides’ top teams have fared so far:
In the State League competitions, Outer East clubs include Mooroolbark Soccer Club, Croydon City, Monbulk Rangers, Boronia Soccer Club, and Lilydale-Montrose United.
Competing in the State 2 Men’s South-East competition, Mooroolbark have gotten off to a solid if unspectacular start, sitting mid-table in seventh with two wins, one draw and one loss in their first four games. They beat North Caulfield 1-2 in their season opener, followed by a 1-0 win over Peninsula Strikers before a 2-0 loss to Knox City and 1-1 draw with Berwick City. No individual player has hit the scoresheet more than once this season for the Barkers and they play Doncaster Rovers away on Anzac Day.
One step down in State 3 South-East, Croydon City have had a tougher start to their campaign down in ninth with one win, one draw and two losses. They drew 1-1 in their opening game against Sandringham, followed by a 1-3 loss to Heatherton United, a 1-2 win over Hampton Park and a 0-2 loss to Elwood City. Jack Buglass leads the scoring charts not only for the club, but the whole league, with 4 goals. Croydon City next play Waverley Wanderers at home on Anzac Day.
Monbulk Rangers are struggling in State 4 East, sitting in 10th with two draws and two losses for their senior side. Monbulk lost 1-2 to East Kew in their opening match, then picked up a 1-1 draw at Mount Waverley and a 2-2 draw at Albert Park before a tough 1-5 loss to Manningham Juventus. Thomas Wilkinson is their only multiple goalscorer with two and the Rangers next play Kings Domain FC away on Saturday 26 April.
Finally in State 5, Boronia are ninth, having beaten Glen Waverley 0-3 to start the season before losing 3-2 to Old St Kevins and 1-7 to East Bentleigh, while no result has been recorded for the 12 April match scheduled against Burwood City. Boronia have no multiple goalscorers and next play Old Trinity Grammarians away on Saturday 26 April.
Lilydale-Montrose United are doing it tough with four straight losses to start the season, going down 2-6 to East Bentleigh, 2-3 to Old Melburnians, 1-10 to Glen Waverley and 13-1 to Whitehorse. Julien Sebire has managed to put away two
of their six goals for the season and they face Burwood City at home on Saturday 26 April.
In the Victorian Churches Football Association (VCFA) competition, the region is represented by Mooroolbark Baptist, Yarra Valley Soccer Club, Eastern United, Healesville Soccer Club, Maroondah United, Lilydale Eagles and Croydon Rangers (Monbulk Rangers senior side plays State League and other sides in the VCFA).
Mooroolbark Baptist are sat pretty in second in the VCPA Men’s Premier League 1 with a win and a draw from their first two games, drawing 3-3 with Knox Churches and then beating Eastern
United 5-0. Andrew Stubley and Matthew Hotchikin-Van Neuren have each notched two goals and they play Doncaster away next on Saturday 26 April.
Yarra Valley have picked up a win and a loss to leave themselves fourth in the table, losing 4-2 Eastern United before beating Doncaster 3-0. They have no multiple goalscorers, though Winjo William has already picked up a red card, and play Berwick United away on Saturday 26 April.
Eastern United have had the aforementioned 4-2 win over Yarra Valley and 5-0 loss to Mooroolbark Baptist to sit in seventh. A hat trick from Rory
Tattersall in their season opener has him as their top goalscorer and they play Knox Churches at home on Saturday 26 April.
In the Premier League 2, Healesville are sat equal-first thanks to a forfeit in their game against Croydon Rangers and a 4-2 win over Waverley City. Two goals for Daniel Tadesse has him as their top scorer and they play Dandy Casuals away on Saturday 26 April.
Maroondah United have also picked up two wins and sit third, having toppled Dandy Casuals 1-3 and One FC 3-1. Jack Williams has top scored for them with two and they play Lilydale Eagles away on Saturday 26 April.
The Lilydale Eagles themselves are down in ninth with two losses, going down 0-1 to One FC and 4-1 to Gideon’s Warriors so far. Christian ‘Flik’ Lindner-Mark is their only scorer so far and they will host Maroondah United as mentioned previously.
Mixed fortunes for Valley clubs as season ramps up
By Callum Ludwig
With football and netball clubs taking a break for Easter, here’s how clubs (Senior Men’s Football and A-Grade Netball) in the Valley have started their seasons:
Coldstream are the only local club competing in the Eastern Football Netball League and are sixth in Division Three with a 52-point loss to Silvan, a 39-point win over Fairpark and a narrow 11-point loss to The Basin. The Cougars have had a consistent set of top performers, with Bailey Grant, Matthew Langdon, Darcy Carrigan, Leigh Warne and Sam Figg all featuring in the best players in two games, while Darcy Fritsch is the league-leading goalkicker with 10. They play Donvale away on Saturday 26 April.
Over in the Outer East competition, Healesville are top of the tree in the Premier Division with two wins and a whopping percentage that has marginally edged out Wandin for top spot. They beat Upwey-Tecoma at home by four goals and followed it up with a 61-point win over Emerald away. Callum Bradley has been a standout in both games while Aidan Rouse leads the Bloods’ goalkicking with 5. The A-Grade netballers have had a mixed start, sitting sixth after a 15-point win over Upwey-Tecoma and a 25-point loss to Emerald. Kim Ryan and Brooke Erickson have been consistent performers in both games. Healesville will play Mt Evelyn away after Easter.
Just behind in second sits Wandin, with a 141-point win over Mt Evelyn and a 14-point win over Woori Yallock under their belts. Aaron Mullett, who also leads the league with 16 goals, and Patty Bruzzese have been top Dogs in both
games. The netballers have won one and lost one, going down to Mt Evelyn by 10 points before beating Woori Yallock by 21, to sit in fourth. Kali Dolphin and Maddy George have been among their best players in both games and Wandin will head to Monbulk after the break. Despite their loss to Wandin, Woori Yallock’s footballers are fourth in Premier Division thanks to an 87-point win over Emerald. Hunter Ryan, Angus Smith and Tayor Gibson have been in their best each week, with Gibson also right on the tail of Mullett for leading goalkicker honours with 15 goals. The netballers are toughing it out with two losses in their first games, beaten by Emerald by 12 points as well as their Wandin loss. Hayley Debuf, Haylee Wilcox, Chelsea Smith and Amber Thorn have all featured once in the best and the Tigers take on Officer in Round Three.
In Division One, Seville are the highestranked Valley side in second after two wins over Yarra Glen (78 points) and Alexandra (44 points). Domenic Aloi’s 8 goals has him third in the league goalkicking but no player has featured in the best players in both games, with multiple players stepping up when called upon. The netballers are fourth but with two wins, by 22 points over Yarra Glen and 58 points over Alexandra. Luiza Sulemani has been in the best players both weeks and the Blues take on Belgrave in their new traditional Anzac Day clash. Warburton-Millgrove are third, thanks to a 46-point win over Belgrave and having the bye. Shawn Andueza, Nelson Aldridge, Thomas Baker, Jack Farrugia, Tyson Henry and Patrick Huynh were their best in the game while Tom Barr and Bailey Humphrey each snagged 3 goals. The A-Grade netballers are second as a
result of their 44-point win over Belgrave, along with the bye. Indiana Pinnock, Bianca Daniels and Taylah Moschetti were the Burras’ best and the club takes on Yarra Junction in their next match.
Yarra Glen’s footballers have mustered one win and one loss, the big loss to Seville by 78 and the win over Belgrave by 10 to sit fifth. Ben Ashton and Jayden Capuano have been their best, while Josh Hawkins’ 10 goals leads all comers in the league. The netballers are also fifth, having lost to Seville by 22 and beaten Belgrave by 29. Madeline Hargrave and Jasmine Evans have featured in the best both weeks and the River Pigs take on Yea away after the break.
Powelltown are down in seventh with one win by 32 over Yarra Junction and one loss to Pakenham by 135. Jayden Mullan has found himself in the best two weeks running while Josh Cowan’s five goals is among the most in the league so far. The netballers are dead last, having lost by 41 points to Yarra Junction and 94 to Pakenham. Kasie Pitts has been their most consistent performer and the Towners have a bye to follow the Easter break.
Yarra Junction’s footballers are finding it tough, sat last with a 32-point loss to Powelltown and a 63-point loss to Yea to their name. Leigh Mccombe has been a bright spark with 9 goals, good for second in the league, and two features in the best players, joined by Hori Jury. The netballers are better off, though, sitting in third with back-to-back wins over Powelltown (41 points) and Yea (20 points). Jade Rogers and Chenile Chandler have been the top performers as the Eagles are set to take on Warburton-Millgrove in Round Three.
Coldstream seniors celebrating their win over Fairpark. (File)
Connor Hartman in action for Lilydale Eagles. (Samantha Moller)
Harry Rushton in action for Mooroolbark against North Caulfield. (File)
They are successful in local business... but what do our Tip-Stars know about Footy? Follow them every
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FOOTY TIPSTERS
Q&A
Chris Lord
1. What made you barrack for the AFL team you follow today?
As a young impressionable 7 year old
I watched Gary Ablett kick 9 goals in the 1989 Grand Final so I wanted to barrack for him. (Geelong)
2. What’s your favourite way to spend a weekend?
Playing sport (golf, lawn bowls) with family and friends. Also watching my kids play football and netball.
3. Do you enjoy what you do for a living?
I enjoy going on the journey to help buyers and sellers alike. I also enjoy the thrill of problem solving to end up with a great result for all people involved.
4. What’s your favourite type of cuisine?
Italian
5. What are 3 words that describe you best Honest, Reliable, Cheeky
6. When you were little, what did you think you were going to be?
I think I went through a Marine Biologist phase. Tough gig when you live a couple of hours away from the ocean.
7. Who would you like to have dinner with and why (could be anyone, dead or alive)?
Roger Goodell ( Long time Commissioner of the NFL) He has dealt with many billionaire owners and also thousands of players, many of them have got themselves in a lot of trouble. Would love to know the skeletons in the closet of one of my favourite sports.
8. What advice would you offer to your younger self?
Don’t be in a hurry to be grown up. Don’t over analyze what may happen and just enjoy the experience of what it is.
